An exceptional second-half performance by Leeds United saw Barnet Ladies slip to a 4-1 defeat at Underhill.

Leeds started brightly but it was the Bees who threatened first when Chontele Lawrence almost found Vicky Boardman who was just unable to control the ball.

Moments later the away side had a golden chance of their own but despite being through on goal with only the keeper to beat Emma Lipman was unable to convert.

Unfortunately Rachel Lee did not make the same mistake as she slotted home moments later after seeing her initial shot well saved by Cherie Rowlands.

Lee continued to threaten for the away side and she almost doubled their advantage with ten minutes of the half remaining when Rowlands denied her with a superb stop. 

Barnet responded well after the break and almost equalised when Boardman’s attempted lob cleared the keeper before sailing agonisingly over the crossbar.

With 19 minutes remaining Carla Cantrell doubled the away sides lead but the Bees again responded well as the impressive Lawrence found Stacey Sowden who failed to make it count.

Despite this flurry of attacking play it was the Bees who would be picking the ball out of the net again as they were left short at the back allowing Clare Sykes to make it 3-0.

Just one minute after the restart the deficit was reduced to two as Laura Coombs’ sensational 25-yard strike made it 3-1.

Leeds kept possession well during the latter stages of the game and the frustration told with three minutes remaining as Boardman brought down Lipman in the box.

Cantrell stepped up and converted the penalty to make it 4-1 and seal the points but had it not been for Rowlands in the Bees goal Cantrell would have got her hat-trick in added time. 

Next up for the Ladies is a League Cup tie against Lewes on Sunday 13 January at Underhill. 

Kick-off is at 2pm, with admission free for Season Ticket Holders & Bees Members and just £3 for Adults and £1 concessions otherwise.