- Crewe progress to the Third Round of the FA Cup Qualifying
- Another screamer from Deaville
- First clean sheet in 2023/24 campaign
A superb strike from Rubie Deaville and an Amanda Fallon header were enough to secure Crewe Alexandra Women a spot in Monday's FA Cup draw.
First Team Manager Matt Fisher made one change from the side that drew with Fleetwood Town last weekend by recalling Gemma Brough to the starting XI.
Sunday's opponents Preston North End have had a terrific start to the new campaign with five wins from six games in the Women’s North West Regional Division One League.
Crewe shaped up in a 4-2-3-1 formation and started brightly by moving the ball around well and combining in central areas to create space out wide.
In the 25th minute Crewe got the goal they deserved. Rubie Deaville received the ball on the left and struck a curling shot from 25 yards past North End's number one to grab her second goal in three games.
The visitors went looking for an immediate response when Hadley’s effort flashed wide of the post with Hannah Holloway beaten.
On the stroke of half time, The Alex doubled their lead when Amanda Fallon rose highest to head home an Emilia Edwards corner taking her tally up to three for the season.
The visitors came out on the front foot looking for a way back into the game. They came close in the 55th minute when a Preston cross flashed across The Alex’s 6-yard box, but attacker could only place her shot wide.
The hosts weren't looking to settle at 2-0 and had more chances of their own with Edwards, Deaville and Leah Collins all forcing the Preston 'keeper into good saves.
Whilst leading on the hour mark, Fisher losts Jess Sheridan who was forced off with a knee injury and was replaced with Hattie Bourne. Emily Cole, who recently returned from international duty replaced Megan Ragdale.
Preston's biggest threat, Hadley watched an effort from distance, which looked destined for the top corner was superbly tipped behind by Holloway.
Emma Heath replaced Edwards in attack late on and she could have scored with her first touch. She was set free in behind the Preston backline, but her effort was blocked with a great last ditched tackle.
On the game, Matt Fisher said: "The girls were brilliant. We spoke before the game about how high we set our targets and that in past years we’ve never really enjoyed the cup runs whilst they’re happening.
"We wanted to create a relaxed enjoyable environment and I think it showed. The players defended professionally, created lots of chances and scored two superb goals."
The Reds will face Wallsend BC Women in the final qualifying round of the Women's FA Cup.
Crewe's fixture will take place on Sunday, October 22 (2pm).