The Lady Reds defeated Brighton 1-0 at Morshead Park in round nine of Football Federation Victoria’s women’s state league one season on Sunday.

A superb strike from Lulu Al-Huneidi in the 50th minute from an Eryiel McGookin delivery saw the home side gain the ascendancy.

The win was soured by an injury to Natalie Barbara, who came off second best in a head clash early in the game.

Ballarat Scrap Metal Lady Devils coach Rick Romein was pleased with the performances of his younger charges throughout the match.

“It was gratifying to see our younger brigade, most notably Erin Plucke and Vanessa Yung, competing physically when the ball was in dispute against a more mature and stronger opposition,” Romein said.

“It was the girls’ belief in their structure and what they can control that led to what was a long overdue win. 

“It was a great game and a massive win for the girls.”

Tessa Curtain played nearly a whole game in the Lady Devils midfield after a short stint in last week’s match.

Romein said Ballarat’s ability to switch from a four-person to three-person midfield was the catalyst for the win.

“Our defence decision-making as well as execution and technique is improving,” Romein said.

“This is allowing our team to maintain more possession of the ball across the park.”

Ballarat’s development side was humbled 3-0 by Brighton, while the Lady Reds’ under-16 team suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Bundoora.

Alyssa Britten and Katie McAloon were Ballarat’s scorers.

A catch-up round this weekend will see the Lady Devils’ senior teams take a well-earned break, while the under-16 squad will play a home game against Heidelberg United at Morshead Park.

michael.pollock@fairfaxmedia.com.au