SAM Rose was proud of his Oxford United Women players and staff after they won at Ipswich Town, despite spending most of the second half with 10 players.
Lacy Liggett was shown a yellow card for a late challenge midway through the first half, before a late lunge nine minutes into the second period saw her pick up a second booking.
However, the U’s dug in, and with 20 minutes to go, a move involving Zoe Barratt and Shelly Provan resulted in Vita Budaieva slotting the ball in.
The first minute of stoppage time saw Evie Williams sent off for the hosts after she brought down Barratt as the United striker ran through on goal.
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U’s manager Rose said: “I’m really proud of the team and the staff, it’s been a slog to get here and the game was a slog with a difficult surface.
“I don’t think we played particularly well, in footballing terms, but we were tenacious, organised and resilient.
“It’s a great feeling to go down to 10 players and still win the game.”
He added: “I thought Vita came on and gave us some energy, and we needed that, and a little bit more going forward.
“It’d be unfair to single her out for all the praise because all of the players dug in, and they showed the other side of them.
“They’re a good side, so to keep a clean sheet and go down the other end and score a goal to win the game, we’re really pleased.”
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