Watford Girls Academy Under-16s progressed through to the next round of the Capital Girls League Cup with a 4-2 win at Actonians, despite having to see out the final 20 minutes of the game with only nine players.

A brace from captain Lucy Bolitho and further strikes from Katie Finch and Ellie Wilkerson saw the young Hornets advance with a 4-2 victory, although they needed to call upon their resilience and determination to see them through after Bolitho and Katie Miller were forced off with injury.

The only other Academy side in competitive action at the weekend were the Under-10s, who made the trip to Barnet.

Watford raced into a three-goal lead by the break but their hosts came out fighting in the second half and stormed back to go in front.

The visitors regained their composure and netted twice and after Barnet had netted again, Watford struck the final goal to complete an exciting but tiring contest for both sides.

The Watford Girls Academy train at Harefield Academy. They are the only official link to Watford Ladies, and are seeking talented and committed Under-16 girls to join their squad.

Requests for trials should be made by sending an email to trials@watfordfcgirlsacademy.com