Bradford City Women’s lost out in a narrow defeat to Liverpool Feds in the FAWNL Cup Determining Round, going down 1-0 to their Division One North counterparts.
City began brightly but it was the home side who had the first clear opportunity inside 15 minutes.
A free-kick from the edge of the area proved easy to deal with by ‘keeper Aimee Routledge.
Just before the break, however. Liverpool almost grabbed the lead, if not for a crucial goalmouth scramble which was defended well by Routledge and Bantams captain Zoe Roberts.
Bantams boss Steve Winterburn made changes at half-time but his side suffered a setback moments later - with what proved to be the deciding goal.
Jen Rogers was played through the City backline, managing to lob the Routledge to take the lead.
The travelling West Yorkshire side dug deep and went close to an equaliser just before the hour mark.
Ellie Prothero and Megan Maxted combined well on the left to force a corner. Roberts saw her cross tipped onto the bar but Sophie Parrish was unable to put home the rebound.
City continued to push for an equaliser but a very physical Liverpool team took control of the midfield, holding out for the victory.
Bantams boss Winterburn said: “It was a disappointing performance today which was mostly down to the blistering temperature.
“Praise has to be given to both sets of players for playing in the unbearable heat, but it wasn’t a good watch for anyone.
“City’s biggest disappointment was our passing game - which was way below par. There are things to work on and improvement needed before our next league fixture, but we will get there.”
City will be looking to bounce back when they travel to face Chester-le-Street in FAWNL Division One North, on Sunday.