By Kimi Head
Manager Tyler Dunson heralded hat-trick hero De François as another win put Derby women’s seconds at the top of the table.
She earned his praise by not only scoring, but also showcasing the full range of her ability, to make sure her side lead the Midlands League 4B of the universities’ competition.
The pick of François’ three goals was a superb long-range effort in the 80th minute to put the cap on an excellent personal performance, and a game which showcased the team’ impressive early-season form.
One man especially satisfied with was manager Dunson, who singled out Francois for her contributions throughout the game.
He said: “She got everyone going.
“Not only did she contribute well on the ball, but off the ball.”
Dunson was also pleased with the strong defensive performance, despite conceding two goals.
He said: “We’ve worked quite a lot on defensive structure lately.
“I don’t think keeper Josie [Lewis] made anymore than two saves.”
Derby actually went behind early in the game, through a goal on the counter-attack from Warwick’s Millie O’Brien in the second minute.
However, they equalised quickly through Breanna Ellis-Marriott in the seventh minute.
The team were able to build and maintain momentum after they scored the equaliser.
They looked comfortable for most of the game, although Coco Judd gave Warwick some hope with a goal in the 53rd minute.
However, François completed her hat-trick in the 80th minute, as well as goals in the 18th and 38th minutes.
Forward Scarlett Parr, who set up two goals during the match, spoke about the momentum that currently exists within the team.
She said: “I think we had a positive atmosphere going into this week, after a win two weeks ago.”
Derby are the only team in the league to win both games so far.
Their next league fixture is against Warwick.
