Tranmere Rovers Women suffered a disappointing defeat on the road to FC United.
Three goals in the first half and a penalty in the second was the difference on Sunday afternoon to see the hosts take all three points and secure their place at the top of the table.
It took just six minutes for FC United to open the scoring through Emily Smith who headed home from a corner.
Rovers reacted well as Ellie Doyle had two consecutive chances but Ainsworth denied her an equaliser on both occasions.
FC United looked to double their lead by Katy Maddock pulled off a fantastic save to keep Rovers in the game.
Five minutes later and the hosts scored again, this time it was Birtwistle who was clear at the back post and slotted home from a free kick.
Tranmere pushing on through had chances from Pennington, McCready and Woolley but were denied at every chance.
Controversially, FC United were awarded a penalty after Reeves softly went down in the box. Up stepped Chambers who didn’t trouble Maddock as her shot was off target.
Despite missing the penalty United managed to make it three just before half time as Reeves put the ball across the line after a deflection meant the ball fell to her feet.
The second half started off much brighter for Rovers with half time substitute Amy Shannon making a brilliant impact creating several chances for Tranmere but we just couldn’t find the back of the net.
The youngster was bought down in the area with screams for a penalty ignored by the referee. Up the other end of the field and Smith brings down Dixon and is awarded another penalty.
This time Kelly steps up and smashes the ball into the bottom corner securing all the points for the league leaders.
It wasn’t to be for Rovers this afternoon as they travel back to the Wirral empty handed.
Up next for Tranmere Women is Salford Lionesses at the Ellesmere Port Sports Village on Sunday 22nd January, 2pm.