FOR the first time in two years Swindon Town Ladies Under 16s were on the losing side.

Town had never lost a game in the Under 16 Surrey League but, in a five-goal thriller, they lost 3-2 to derby rivals Reading.

Reading were worthy winners against Town who were all too often second to the ball.

The Royals took the lead half way through the first-half when a free-kick on the edge of the area picked out the unmarked striker to score from six yards.

Abi Curtin and Steph Lewis both had chances but the Reading goalkeeper was well placed to save, while a Polly New effort from the edge of box went just past the post.

Town got off to the worst possible start in the second half when confusion from a corner allowed Reading to score.

Sammy Masters pulled a goal back for Town after a goalmouth melee and, with five minutes remaining, Polly New levelled matters.

A minute later Abi Curtin was unlucky not to put Town into the lead before Reading snatched the winner, again from a poorly defended corner.