Romford's women secured a hard-fought 4-0 win at Tigers in their first game since the departure of manager Jason Murray and the absence of influential playmaker Claire Huggins.

In-form striker Shannon Simpson bagged a second-half hat-trick, with seven goals in her last three games taking her above Huggins as leading goalscorer with nine for the season.

The hosts could have scored inside two minutes as a header was flashed just wide, but Boro then made most of the running as the returning Sian Lakes, Sammie Kuski and Simpson had efforts saved.

Tigers defended determinedly and carried a threat on the counter, but Romford were creating chance after chance and the home keeper pulled off a number of excellent stops to keep the game scoreless.

Four 16-year-olds were included in Boro's squad, with Izzy Kearns, Holly Winser, Darcie Colkett and debutant Aliya Sambani turning in assured performances.

And it was the 'Baby Belles' who created the opener on the hour, as Colkett and Winser combined to set Simpson free to blast home.

Skipper Alice Sharpe and Paulina Saviciute were excellent in snuffing out any possible comeback and the points were sealed with 10 minutes to go when Simpson latched on to another through ball from Evie Doyle-Love for her second.

A minute later, Winser and Crystene Fenton set Simpson away again and a fine left-footed finish completed her hat trick, before Vee Stuart release Kuski for the fourth.

Caretaker boss Chris Mead confirmed a search for a permanent replacement for Murray is still ongoing, but was delighted with the victory.

“The scoreline may suggest a dominant performance, but the match unfolded with numerous missed opportunities that left everyone on the edge," said Mead.

"Despite the apparent goal fest, the team showcased moments of brilliance that, if capitalised upon, could have resulted in an even bigger scoreline.

“One of the standout moments was the introduction of four young talents from the youth squad. Holly, Darcie, Aliya and Izzy injected a fresh burst of energy and their performances were nothing short of exceptional, displaying skill, composure and a hunger to prove themselves at the highest level.

"Their performances were not only a testament to their individual abilities, but also a promising glimpse into the future potential of the squad.

"Everyone involved eagerly anticipates the continued growth and integration of these rising stars into the first team, setting the stage for an exciting journey that lies ahead of us!”

Boro return to league action in a fortnight with a trip to Corinthians.