Watford Ladies Under-18 Warriors wrote their name in the history books as they turned on the style to beat Harvesters 6-2 and clinch the inaugural Hertfordshire FA Girls Under-18 Cup at the County Ground, Letchworth.

This was the first year there had been sufficient teams playing at this age group to introduce an Under-18 County Cup competition and both sides served up a worthy final, full of high-quality, entertaining football with plenty of goals and drama.

Watford came flying out of the blocks and almost went ahead after two minutes when captain Jessie Poulter’s shot hit both posts but somehow stayed out. They didn’t have long to wait though, after Mia Gregory’s goal-bound effort bounced off a defender into the net.

Watford Observer: Mia Gregory scored a hat-trick for the Watford side.Mia Gregory scored a hat-trick for the Watford side. (Image: Watford Ladies)

Chances at both ends followed with Charlotte Forster going close for the Warriors and Harvesters hitting the crossbar from a corner.

After 18 minutes the Junior Premier League outfit doubled their lead. Maria Toledo’s ball found Gregory who raced away from the defence and calmly slotted past the goalkeeper.

Watford Observer: Maya Shah and Jessie Poulter in action in the final.Maya Shah and Jessie Poulter in action in the final. (Image: Watford Ladies)

The team from St Albans continued to threaten and got themselves back into the game with a goal from Hollie Thornton. But Watford reasserted their authority and scored twice more before half time. Francesca Grazioli coolly fired home from the penalty spot, following a handball, before Gregory made it 4-1 to complete her hat-trick.

Harvesters, currently lying second in Division One of the Hertfordshire Girls Football Partnership League, came out strongly after the break. Having already forced a good save from Bonnie Mander in the Watford goal, they managed to pull it back to 4-2 thanks to Katie Leigh.

Watford Observer: Summer Small scored the Ladies' fifth goal.Summer Small scored the Ladies' fifth goal. (Image: Watford Ladies)

However, all hopes of a comeback were dashed after Summer Small’s Beckham-like long shot looped over the goalkeeper.

Maya Shah’s mazy run and clinical finish past the advancing goalkeeper then put the result beyond doubt to allow the Watford players, coaches and supporters to enjoy the celebrations at the final whistle.

Watford Observer: The Herts Under-18 County Cup champions.The Herts Under-18 County Cup champions. (Image: Watford Ladies)