Reading FC Women produced a dominant display to beat Woodley United LFC 5-0 in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division on a day dedicated to community celebration and charity fundraising.
The Royals hosted their Community Day at Arbour Park, with supporters invited to arrive early for activities including arts and crafts, a speed cage and a first-team signing session, while donation buckets raised money for Breast Cancer Now throughout the afternoon.
Reading started brightly and quickly took control of proceedings, pressing high and creating early chances as they looked to entertain the crowd. The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when TIa Johnson slotted past the goalkeeper.
It wasn’t long behind the Royals netted a second when the hosts were awarded a penalty which was converted on the rebound after he initial effort was saved.
With half an hour played Reading found a third to all but take the game away from Woodley when Keren Banduka curled past the keeper.
Reading raced into a four goal lead when Johnson sealed her hat-trick with 34 minutes played.
Mia Parker scored the only goal of the second-half just a minute after the restart from the penalty spot.
The five-goal victory capped a successful afternoon both on and off the pitch, with the Community Day attracting supporters and helping raise funds for charity while showcasing the club’s commitment to engaging with local fans.
Reading FC Women’s manager Ed Jackson-Norris said: “What a great day. Sun beaming, some good goals and a huge crowd with loads of new faces – we really felt the love today.
“What’s bound to be a huge sum raised for Breast Cancer Now too, which makes the day all that sweeter.”
Reading’s emphatic win also strengthened their position in the Southern Region Women’s Premier Division, continuing their strong run of form in what has been an improved season under manager Ed Jackson-Norris.
The result ensured the Community Day ended on a high, with supporters celebrating both a convincing victory and a successful fundraising event for a worthwhile cause.
