Illawarra slumped to their first defeat of the campaign in a disappointing 3-1 loss to Manly United at Cromer Park on Easter Monday.
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A double from Claudia Cholakian and an important strike from Emily Minett ensured Blaize Kendis second half goal wasn't enough to prevent Illawarra from dropping points on the road.
The undermanned Stingrays had been the unbeaten league leaders heading into the clash, but coach Scott Chipperfield believes they were made to pay for not taking their chances. Kahlia Hogg spurned a chance from the penalty spot while the Rays also hit the bar and post in the second half.
"If you don't take your chances, you won't win games," Chipperfield said.
"We have another important game next week so it will be about taking those chances."
Chipperfield is set to welcome striker Hannah Beard and goalkeeper Trudy Burke back into the side for next week's trip to Blacktown, with veteran skipper Michelle Carney also a chance to make her return.