Express & Star

Heartbreak for West Brom ladies

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Sporting Club Albion Ladies missed out on promotion to Division Two of the Women's Super League after going down to Brighton and Hove Albion Ladies 4-2 in the Women's Premier League play-off final at Wycombe's Adams Park.

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The Baggies, who won the Premier League Northern Division and the County Cup, ultimately left it too late after taking the lead then reducing the arrears late on against the Southern Division champions.

Leigh Dugmore gave Albion a 15th-minute lead when she headed into the roof of the net after the Seagulls failed to clear a corner, but Brighton levelled through Kate Natkiel shortly before the interval.

The former Watford winger then edged her side ahead on 68, sparking a frantic period of three goals in seven minutes as Sophie Perry (73) and Amy Taylor (75) gave Brighton a three-goal cushion. Karen Clough pulled a goal back for Sporting with two minutes left then Albion suffered a controversial offside call when they had the ball in the net and were denied what appeared to be a stonewall penalty.

Boss Graham Abercrombie tweeted: "Huge thank you to all fantastic @SCALadies supporters who were there and throughout the season! You all make a massive difference!

"We're naturally sad @SCALadies but that will pass and we'll remember what an amazing season we've had! #ForeverChampions.

"So proud of all the @SCALadies players! Once again against all odds they gave their best, didn't feel sorry for themselves and never quit!"

Abercrombie added: "To reach the heights we have is mind-blowing."