A fantastic four goal performance from Livingston secured the three points in the SWPL 2, as the Lionesses defeated St Johnstone 4-2. Goals from Anna Dickov, Lucy Watt, Lauren Evans and Shannon Todd gave Livi the advantage as they earned a comfortable victory at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

Captain Natasha Frew dropped to the bench, with Jess Murphy returning following a brief spell out injured. Shannon Mulligan would captain the side, which would also see Molly Reeve return in goal.

It wouldn’t take long for Livingston to take the lead, with the goal coming in spectacular fashion too. Anna Dickov controlled the ball with her chest before turning and firing a brilliant volley into the top corner and igniting Livingston into life.

An energetic Livingston side would dominate the first half, not conceding many chances whilst pouncing upon any loose balls. Livingston were finding particular joy in the wide areas, with Beth McKay and Lucy Watt having strong games down the flanks. The duo linked up for the Lionesses second goal, with McKay teeing up Watt, who struck high into the net on the half hour mark.

Starting captain Shannon Mulligan would have her afternoon cut short, receiving a nasty blow to the face that seen the midfielder require medical attention before having to be subbed before half time. Gemma Mason would come on in her place with Jess Murphy taking the captaincy.

Half time saw Lauren Evans replace Ashley Elizabeth, with the striker making an immediate impact off the bench. A Beth McKay cross was met by Evans who nodded beyond the Saints keeper to further the home side’s advantage.

Saints pulled one back in the 62nd minute through Steffi Simson. A misjudged long ball bounced through to the striker, who made no mistake to get on the scoresheet.

However, Livingston bounced back and got thier fourth, with substitute Shannon Todd scoring her first goal for the club. Todd met a Mason corner, with her header too strong to be kept out despite St Johnstone’s best efforts.

The afternoon’s goals were rounded out by a great long range strike from St Johnstone’s Alix Moodie. The midfielder picked the ball up from distance before firing a great strike into the top corner.

A strong showing from Livingston sealed a deserved three points ahead of a tough game away to Boroughmuir Thistle next weekend.

Match Report: Angus Mcgregor

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