WANDERERS Ladies finally got back to action after three consecutive postponed games in a local derby against Chorley, played in Skelmersdale.

Chris Knights’ side had not played since their thrilling 10-0 victory against Tom Finney Ladies in the cup and the rustiness might have told as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat.

Harsh conditions played their part throughout but Bolton made a positive start, testing the Chorley keeper with a shot tipped just over the crossbar. The home side responded with a shot of their own, which wasn’t enough to test Jen Myler.

Both sides struggled to get their game going in strong winds but Chorley did manage to get a foothold when Nicole Malpus tripped Sophie Rotheram and the ref pointed to the spot for a penalty.

Megan Searson stepped up to send Myler the wrong way from the penalty spot.

Wanderers reacted well and equalised just 10 minutes later. Rachel Hindley’s cross was picked up by the wind and after the Chorley keeper pushed the ball on to the bar, Saffron Newhouse was there to tap home her sixth goal in two games.

Chorley came out the stronger side and forged ahead again on 50 minutes. Again, Lisa Topping’s set piece got caught in the wind and dropped under the crossbar before Myler could get to it.

Bolton controlled the rest of the game and manufactured a couple of half-chances but could not quite get themselves back on level terms.

Wanderers Ladies now look forward to a cup game at home this Sunday against West Bromwich Albion Ladies, in the quarter final of the FAWNL Plate.

The game was originally scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 2, but was postponed due to the recent Storm Ciara.

Both teams are competing for an away trip to Plymouth Argyle Ladies, later this month.

Success on Sunday will see the Wanderers Ladies reach a semi-final after already booking themselves a place in the FA Lancashire Challenge Cup Final in January.