THE Dubbo Blue Jays claimed a much-needed win on Saturday as they came back from a half-time deficit to defeat Bathurst Souths 3-2 at Pioneer Park.
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The victory maintains the Blue Jays' place in the top five and coach Craig Johnston admitted it was a game his side had to win after last week's disappointing loss to Ex-Services.
"We definitely needed a win and to the girls credit we got there in the end," he said.
"We had a lot of ball in the second half and went through that period again of attack, attack, attack and I thought it was going to be a repeat of last week but we put a couple in."
Souths, coming into the match in third place, started the better of the two sides and were rewarded with a goal to Michelle Somers from their third short corner of the match.
A swift counter-attack from the Blue Jays saw them level it up against the run of play shortly after with Hollie Jones on hand to convert after a great run from Kendall McDonagh.
But approaching half-time Souths again capitalised on extended period of possession and Madison Boyce finished off a neat move inside the circle.
Up 2-1 at the break and having created more chances, Souths seemed in control but the Blue Jays lifted.
The introduction of Michelle Courtney also boosted the home side with veteran goalkeeper time and time again thwarting Souths' attacking raids in the second stanza.
The Blue Jays improved efforts were soon rewarded when another impressive run from Tarlee Roberts led to Alex Waters slotting the ball past the keeper.
And in the blink of an eye Dubbo were in front when Zoe Warwick was on hand to guide the ball past the keeper following a perfect cross from Jones.
"We had a couple of players who hadn't scored before, Zoe Warwick, I think that would be her first for the year so that was pleasing and Hollie Jones got us a good one at the start," Johnston said.
"It was pleasing to see some of the other girls step up and it was magnificent for everybody, I can't single out anyone."
Souths had plenty of ball late on but couldn't find a goal and Candice Falconer admitted those missed opportunities cost her side.
"I think we were good enough to win today and we had enough chances, we just didn't take them," she said.
"We probably should have scored two early but we didn't and then they scored and we scored again but I think it was still a bit frustrating and they carried on with it.
"It was just getting a bit scrambled and obviously the Blue Jays had a lot to play for today and I think our spot at third is vulnerable right now."
DUBBO BLUE JAYS 3 (Hollie Jones, Alex Waters, Zoe Warwick goals) defeated BATHURST SOUTHS 2 (Michelle Somers, Madison Boyce goals)