The Golden Girls were defeated in their final group stage game of the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup, as Charlton Athletic Women won 5-0 at Kings Langley.

Despite the scoreline, an incredibly youthful Watford side put up a good fight against a strong Charlton outfit, which contained only one change to their line-up from their last league fixture.

The visitors found a way through in the 26th minute via an own goal, and then added four further strikes. Ella Rutherford netted twice, while Mia Ross and Elisha Sulola were also on the scoresheet.

Head Coach Clinton Lancaster made several changes to the side that featured against Coventry United, opting to rest senior players and give the youngsters an opportunity.

The starting line-up contained nine players aged 22 or under. Aaliyah Charles made her debut, while there was also a first senior start for Gemma Biggadike.

Watford started well and had a couple of chances to go in front. Ronnell Humes was sent through and agonisingly put her effort just inches wide of the post with the keeper beaten.

A teasing set-piece delivery from Corinne Henson was then nearly met by Anaisa Harney, as the Hornets looked for the opening goal.

A yellow and black shirt would eventually have the ball in the net, but unfortunately it was down the wrong end. Emma Follis’ cross into the box caused problems and it was turned past Mia Smith by one of her teammates.

Prior to that it had been a competitive opening 25 minutes, however Charlton were now starting to get on top. Mia Smith had made a good stop to keep it at 1-0, but Rutherford would find a way through shortly after, doubling the advantage with a smart finish.

The away side would add a third before the interval. Follis was the provider again, setting up Ross at the back post and she made no mistake.

Opposition goalkeeper Eartha Cumings was almost forced into making a mistake at the beginning of the second 45, as she did just about enough after Summer Roberts pressed and charged down her clearance.

The result of the game was put beyond all doubt in the 54th minute, as Rutherford got her second of the evening to make it 4-0. They would then add a fifth midway through the half, substitute Sulola beating Mia Smith from close range to extend their lead.

With eyes on a potential place in the knockout stages via the best second-place spot, another goal for Charlton would have opened up a third possible scenario where that could happen.

Watford defended resolutely though and ensured there were no further additions to the scoreline. They’ll now have to hope Leicester City beat Manchester City in 90 minutes in their re-arranged game or draw and then win the bonus-point penalty shootout.

For the Golden Girls, this was their last match in this season’s competition. It’s certainly been a valuable experience, with several players from the Development Team getting the chance to show their talent with the Senior Team.

Attention will now switch back to the league, as Lancaster’s side prepare for a big match away at Coventry United on Saturday.