Lincoln United U15 Girls have been crowned the 2023 County U15 Girls’ Cup after an impressive 5-1 victory over Horncastle Town U15 Girls at Stamford AFC’s Zeeco Stadium on Sunday.

Kieran Gilberthorpe’s side are the first ever winners of the competition.

The 150+ strong crowd were treated to an absolute goal fest, as well as a very competitive and hard-fought game. Lincoln United took the opener after 12 minutes by Jasmine Lowe, who tucked away an effort from close range that had been parried out into Lowe’s path by the Horncastle keeper, Amelia Cunliffe.

Just 6 minutes later, Jasmine Lowe had her second after an initial effort from Lily Brookes was saved, before Lowe hit home her brace with an outstanding overhead kick. 

While the score line suggested Lincoln United were running riot, Horncastle Town were putting up a phenomenal fight and threatened the Lincoln goal on several occasions, but just couldn’t get the final shot away to test Lincoln United’s keeper, Jasmine Ottewell.

The half time break came with Lincoln United 2 goals to the good, but Horncastle Town still very much in the fight. 

The 2nd half began in dramatic fashion with a 47th minute goal from super-sub Martha Nelson who tucked away a lovely effort from inside the Horncastle box. But just 1 minute later, Jazmine Jefferey threw a lifeline to Horncastle by burying her chance to make the score 3-1. 

The game was a superb advert for Women & Girls’ football in Lincolnshire as both teams put absolutely everything on the line to try secure glory, but Lincoln United delivered a damning blow to Horncastle after an 82nd minute goal from Imogen Rawlings after a superb run through the Horncastle back-line. 

Grace Jones’ goal to make it 5-1 turned out to be the final kick of the game as Lincoln United secured the title and were crowned the 2023 Lincolnshire FA County U15 Girls’ Cup Champions. 

Lincoln United’s Grace Jones was named Player of the Match, and the game was officiated by Mason Bussey, Cassey Rook, George Harden, and Jake Harden. 

Photo Credit: Ed Mayes Photography