The Bonnie Lassie Cup returned to the local women’s footballing calendar this year after a two-year hiatus with over 400 players competing in the preseason competition across two Sunday’s at Myimbarr Fields.

First division outfits Albion Park and Balgownie Rangers competed in the Cup final after both sides secured 1-0 wins in the semi finals with Park knocking off Woonona in the closing stages while the Rangers beat Thirroul.

Balgownie only fielded 10 players in the final due to injuries early in the day but the resolute Rangers competed well but fell to a Brittany Ring goal with only a few minutes remaining.

There was some consolation for Balgownie with captain Courtney Riordan earning player of the match honours.

The Plate final was a third division affair with Wollongong United taking on Oak Flats Wildcats. To get to the second tier decider, United beat Coniston 3-1 in the semi while the Wildcats knockout out Helensburgh via a penalty shootout.

Wollongong would secure the Plate with a 3-0 victory with United’s Christina Videla judged as the player of the match.

Women’s Football Council director Catherine Lear hailed the event's return as a success.

“All of the games were very close and competitive,” she said.

“The Women’s Council would like to thank Shellharbour Junior FC for hosting the event.”

Lear also made mention the exploits of Southern Highlands side Moss Vale who will be competing in the local second division this season. Moss Vale made it to the final eight of the Cup where they succumbed to first division side Thirroul.

The women’s premiership kicks off next weekend.

Report by Dylan Arvela, on Twitter @dylanarvela