Ashleigh Plumptre celebrated her return to competitive action with a goal for Al-Ittihad, though her effort could not prevent a 2-1 loss to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Women’s Super Cup semi-final.
The Super Falcons defender was restored to the Al-Ittihad starting XI after several months out of action and made her presence felt just before the break, finding the net during first-half stoppage time.
That strike gave Al-Ittihad renewed belief at half-time, but Al-Hilal took charge again once play resumed. Former Nigeria captain Asisat Oshoala then delivered the decisive moment, scoring to put Al-Hilal back in front and send the club through to the final.
Al-Ittihad continued searching for a second equaliser, yet they were unable to find a way past the Al-Hilal defence before the referee brought the match to an end.
Although the result ended Al-Ittihad’s hopes of reaching the final, Plumptre’s scoring return represented an encouraging step as she rebuilds her match fitness.
The goal was also her first for Al-Ittihad this season, giving the defender further confidence ahead of the new domestic campaign.
