EAST Thurrock ladies had to dig deep to reach their second consecutive League Cup final, beating Barking reserves 3-1.

The Rockettes entered the game following a 3-0 defeat of Barking in the league just two weeks ago and a sensational 36-0 drubbing of Shrimperzone last week.

The away side took the lead as Chelsea Hinz’s 25th minute free kick was flicked on by Laura Stone to allow Katy Judd to head them into the lead as the Rockettes began to control the tie.

As the teams swapped ends after the half, East Thurrock held the advantage of a strong wind behind them and doubled their lead shortly.

Sophie Dowman broke free down the right flank leaving a trailing defender trying to drag her back before handling the ball as she went to ground.

The linesman confirmed the penalty and Stone stepped forward to convert the kick.

Going 2-0 down seemed to galvanise the home side rather than demoralise them.

A left-wing corner was punched out powerfully by Layla Prior, but the ball was played back into the area where a crisp finish was applied that gave Prior no chance.

Barking continued to search for an equaliser and within a minute a speculative cross-come-shot from wide on the left grazed the top of the East Thurrock crossbar.

With four minutes remaining, Judd made the game safe.

Rianne Dimmock played a perfect pass to allow Judd to beat the offside trap and pick her spot to score with ease.

The goal sparked wild celebrations on the East Thurrock bench.

The Rockettes will meet the winners of the semi-final between C&K Basildon and Hutton, who sit first and second respectively in Division One.

Whichever side prevails will meet Third Division East Thurrock in the final at White Notley FC on Sunday, May 9.