Match Report
Somerset County Women’s League Division 1
After a narrow defeat a week earlier Bridport FC Women earned their first 3 points in game 2 of Division 1 with an impressive 4–2 victory at home to Nailsea United Women. The fixture promised to be a stern test, with Nailsea having finished just one point off the league title last season, and the Bees showed they are more than capable of competing at this higher level.
The weather added another layer of challenge, with strong winds building before kick-off and heavy rain setting in as the game began. Despite the difficult conditions, Bridport started brightly, creating early attacking opportunities and forcing Nailsea onto the back foot. However, against the run of play, the visitors broke through and took the lead after 12 minutes.
The Bees’ response was exactly what was needed. Just seven minutes later, Florence Valinski struck back with a composed finish to level the score at 1–1. From there, Bridport grew into the contest, winning the key midfield battles and edging the first half in terms of possession and chances.
Half-time: 1–1.
The message in the dressing room was clear: the team had been the better side and needed to take their chances while remaining compact at the back.
Bridport carried that momentum into the second half. On 62 minutes, Maisie Macdonald produced a moment of magic, driving forward before unleashing a superb strike from distance to put the Bees 2–1 ahead. Unfortunately, concentration slipped almost immediately from the restart, allowing Nailsea to equalise and bring the score back to 2–2.
Rather than let their heads drop, Bridport rallied. With the wind and rain still swirling, the home side dug deep and pressed hard for a winner. On 84 minutes, recent signing Laura Tattershall marked her impact with a calm, clinical finish to restore the lead. Just moments later, Tegan Parr sealed the result with a brilliant solo run and confident strike to make it 4–2.
Player of the Match: Georgie Hughes.
Dominant in midfield, Hughes covered every blade of grass, breaking up play, winning the majority of duels, and distributing the ball intelligently. Her grit, determination, and desire set the standard throughout the game and proved crucial in securing the win.
Full-time: Bridport FC Women 4–2 Nailsea United Women
(Scorers: Valinski, Macdonald, Tattershall, Parr)
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