LAWFORD Ladies suffered defeat in the Essex County League Cup final.

They had made it to the final for the first time in their history and went into the match in good heart, having beaten opponents Corringham Cosmos 5-2 in a league match the previous week.

However, it was not to be Lawford’s day and Corringham got their revenge with a 6-2 win in the final, held at Runwell Sports FC, in Wickford.

Lawford Ladies manager Gemma Isaacs said: "Unfortunately, it wasn’t our day and we congratulate Corringham Cosmos, who deservedly clinched the cup this year.

"It was hugely disappointing but we have to dust ourselves down and concentrate on the remainder of the season as we push for promotion.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors, Cadman Construction Ltd, who have funded our kit this season, and also a huge thank you to John O’Mara, from Lawford FC, who helped form the ladies' team back in 2009.

"He has been a big supporter of ours.

"John is moving to Ireland at the end of the season after 27 years at Lawford FC and we wish him all the best.”

Lawford have enjoyed a positive season so far and currently sit top of the Essex Premier Division, six points ahead of fourth-place Corringham.

Last night's scheduled clash against Hatfield Peverel, who sit second in the league, will be a decisive match in Lawford’s bid to become league title winners.

Lawford Ladies are also recruiting players for the 2018/19 season.

Anyone interested should make contact via twitter: @FC_Lawford.