UKAF women's footballers overpower Irish Defence Forces to retain Friendship Trophy

The UK Armed Forces women's footballers have beaten the Irish Defence Forces 5-0 to win the Friendship Trophy on a hot day at Quorn FC in Leicestershire.

It was the first time the sides had gone head-to-head in four years and UKAF ensured they started strongly, with Libby Dixon scoring in the eighth minute.

Dixon then grabbed her second to make it a brace, putting UKAF 2-0 within the first 25 minutes.

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The hot weather and slow 4G synthetic surface made for made for thirsty conditions and the players had several water breaks in the sunshine.

A third goal came from Demi Edwards to really press home the advantage for UKAF, before an Abigail Hayes header helped UKAF to a 4-0 lead at half-time.

The second half saw several chances, including a Shaunna Edwards volley which hit the crossbar.

The Irish Defence Forces also came close, hitting the side netting from a free kick.

However, a Jade Widdows goal put the game well beyond reach of the Irish, capping off a composed and impressive UKAF performance.