SALTASH won this cup final thanks to three first half goals, writes Liam Dart.

The game started nervously with the ball like a hot potato. Sam Drewery of Saltash grew in the game and her power and strength helped settle the game for the Ashes. It was her through ball to Stacey Arthur that led to the opener which was finished by Stephanie Warren after hesitant defending.

Julie O'Keefe, who was excellent, made two smart saves to deny Coral Smith. Saltash doubled their lead, a Drewery corner was headed home by Emma Gibson.

Kelly Henderson came off injured and was replaced by Vicky Pett, Margaret Brimacombe went into defence and was excellent.

Launceston started to pass the ball and Jill Haines came close but her lobbed shot was saved by Danni Bradford. Jess Shirley, who tried to get her side going, had shots blocked before it was 3-0, again a Drewery corner led to Arthur heading home.

Ria Tilley, Lucy Bounsall and Fi Stevenson had long range efforts blocked. Amy Hooper was introduced at half time and her introduction plus a reshuffle in formation and positions led to Launceston keeping the ball far better and creating more chances.

Neat play between Sharon Medland, Shirley, Louisa Crick saw Bounsall shoot wide. Haines had a couple chances but they were easily dealt with by Bradford. O'Keefe saved smartly to deny Arthur and Smith, with Brimacombe, Sarah Guymer and Hooper stopping any other threats.

Launceston nearly grabbed a consolation but Crick headed wide. Ali Tilley came on and battled well.

Congratulations to Saltash for winning and to Launceston for battling until the end to try and get a result.

Launceston: Julie O'Keefe, Kelly Henderson, Sarah Guymer, Sharon Medland, Louisa Crick, Ria Tilley, Fiona Stevenson, Jess Shirley (c), Lucy Bounsall, Margaret Brimacombe, Jill Haines, Vicky Pett, Amy Hooper, Ali Tilley, Louise Dart, Chelle Bowden and mascot Kira O'Keefe.