West Clubs Women’s League
Brunel Division 1
Old Bristolians 1, Burnham-on-Sea 0

BURNHAM-ON-SEA were extremely unfortunate to suffer their first defeat of the season on Saturday, away to Old Bristolians.

Having had their backs to the wall for the first 15 minutes, the Blues gradually worked themselves into the match and could have been ahead at half-time.

Goalkeeper Lucy Stacey was outstanding as she repelled everything the hosts threw at her but was superbly supported by the defence around her, as they had to weather the storm of several penalty corners in a row.

Carly Bush and Emma Smith made countless blocks and tackles, and Tracey Dunn cleared a shot off the line as Burnham defended for their lives.

Caroline Hunt was strong in midfield and, together with Hatty Rogers, began to drive the Blues up the pitch to support the attack and release some of the pressure.

Amy Edmundson and Kerry Harvey worked hard to create openings, and from a short corner Sarah Johnson saw her goalbound shot cleared off the line by a defender.

The second half continued in much the same vein and although Burnham had more possession they just could not get past a really solid home defence.

Becky Smith had a very good game at right-back, gaining confidence and making some vital interceptions in the D.

Unfortunately for the Blues, they could not hold out for a point, as Old Bs nicked the decisive goal in the last five minutes.

An unlucky bounce off Smith’s stick and Stacey’s back, as they both desperately defended the goal, saw the ball trickle over the line to finally break their resistance.

‘Evie Rowles Fitness’ player of the match: Caroline Hunt