A first-half Lauren Cheshire penalty made the difference as Watford Ladies lost 1-0 away at Chichester City Ladies in the Women's National League South.

The Hornets could not break down the hosts' resolute defence and ended up returning to Hertfordshire with nothing to show for their efforts.

Head coach Armand Kavaja made two changes to the side that beat MK Dons Ladies 2-1 two weeks prior, with Samantha Hallsworth stepping in to replace Helen Ward and goalkeeper Weronika Baranowska returning to the starting lineup.

Chichester had the brightest start to the game with Molly Clark's shot on target in the first minute kept out by Baranowska.

Hattie Kettle and Leanne Bell both went close for the Golden Girls while Alysha Stojko-Down failed to make enough contact on an acrobatic effort.

An open first-half ended with the only goal of the game when the hosts were awarded a penalty following a coming together in the area.

Cheshire stepped up and put the penalty in the top corner, giving Baranowska no chance.

The home side almost doubled their advantage moments after the restart when Helen Ogle found herself through on goal, but her effort was timid and Baranowska was barely troubled.

Chances were difficult to come by for Watford as the Lilywhites shut up shop and tried to see the game out.

A stoppage time free-kick from Molly Clark almost added a second for Chichester, but Baranowska again was on hand to keep it out.