Northland stood strong however and on the hour mark they evened the score through Winstanley's second.
The next 25 minutes were a tight tussle with neither side willing to break. But it was Norwest who succumbed as Witt completed her hattrick and sealed the win.
Coach Carl Compaan said they were glad to get that first win.
"We were happy. It was one of the games we targeted for a win. We had a draw last match as well so we've taken points for the last two weeks," he said.
"It's a huge step up from last year. These teams have NZ U20 players or even Football Ferns.
"The general consensus is it is very difficult to come into the competition but if you stick at it, you will get better and more used to the higher intensity of the matches."
Northland, after dominating last season, have had a tough time adapting to the new competition but are showing they do belong as their performances have improved over the course of the season.
Compaan said the results were not the main thing for the club this year.
"Our goal this season has been development and obviously to stay in the competition," he said.
"If we keep the same unit for next season, the foundation has been laid. The girls this year are blazing a trail.
"It gives the younger footballers around here something to aspire to if we are in that top grade.
"The only way to get better is to match yourself against these better teams and continue to improve when you face those sides."
