But for much of the game it was an evenly-matched affair, and it wasn't until mid-way through the second half that the leaders stamped their authority.

Sarah Maltby broke the deadlock with Bluebirds' opening goal which was quickly followed with a second from Liz Stewart. Ailsa Campbell completed the scoring 10 minutes from time. Ali Figureido was named Blues' MVP after an outstanding game in defence.

In the other A League match, Orioles and Canaries found the net seven times with Orioles emerging 4-3 winners.

Nikita Evans gave Orioles the lead but Emma Garon equalised before the half.

And the same pattern emerged after the break with Orioles twice taking the lead through Maryellen Jackson and Claudette Sherwood only for Georgi Barbosa and Rhonda Rawlins to level for Canaries.

But it was Orioles who grabbed both points with Jackson snatching a late winner.

In the B division, leaders Orioles and second-placed Canaries drew 1-1, Georgi Barbosa getting Canaries' equaliser just 10 minutes from the final whistle.

Bluebirds defeated Cardinals 2-0, Liz Stewart scoring the only goal of the first half with a penalty flick and Kim Stevens adding a second after the break.