It was as early as the 10th minute that Colchester took the lead. Flo Gamby’s flicked header running into the pass of Helen Bass, who coolly lobbed her finish into the back of the Hammers' net.
Just eight minutes later, Bass doubled the lead, Maegan Doyle this time the provider. Her slide-rule through ball giving Bass the opportunity to calmly slot past home keeper Sophie Bishop.
U’s captain Hannah Porter was twice unfortunate not to add to the lead. First a well-worked free-kick ended in her heading an Alex Shepherd delivery against the crossbar. Just before the interval, Porter headed home a Paige Chappell set piece, only to be denied by the assistant referee’s flag for offside.
In the second half, West Ham came out with renewed purpose and enjoyed more possession than in the first period. U’s keeper Nikita Runnacles was called upon to block a Nina Downham shot from close range.
Colchester ran out 2-0 winners to seal their place in the final, where they will meet close neighbours Braintree Town of the Eastern League Premier Division, on April 8th at Great Wakering Rovers FC, 7:45pm kick-off.
Pictured: Colchester United striker Helen Bass, who netted both U’s goals
