Womens vs Portishead Ladies Reserves

Bridport fought back from 3–0 down as Oldrid’s four-goal debut secured a dramatic
4–4 draw with league leaders Portishead.

Portishead arrived top of the league with 10 wins from 12 matches, while despite Bridport’s
recent strong performances there had been a lack of goals.
Looking to counteract this was a new addition to the team in Chloe Oldrid, hoping to add a
cutting edge to the attack.

Starting on the front foot, Bridport dominated early possession, pinning Portishead inside
their own half.

The Portishead manager was heard acknowledging the pressure, saying, “They have a bit of
fight about them girls, let’s let them wear themselves down.”

Despite Bridport’s bright start and multiple attacking deliveries, Portishead took the lead in
the 11th minute through Lola Avery.
The visitors extended their advantage with two quick goals from Caisey Kelly in the 27th and
28th minutes to make it 3–0 from limited chances.
Bridport continued to apply pressure with crosses and shots, refusing to let the early
concessions affect their approach.

Their persistence finally paid off in the 41st minute when Chloe Oldrid headed a score into
the net from a Lucy McClements cross.
Just a minute later, Oldrid struck again following a Portishead error while playing out from
the back, reducing the score to 3–2 at half-time.
Bridport went into the break with momentum and a clear message to maintain intensity and
utilise their squad depth.
However, Portishead made an early impact in the second half, restoring their two goal lead
through Charlotte Poole with a clinical finish.

After a quick substitute reshuffle to add fresh energy, Oldrid completed her hat trick in the
63rd minute to pull Bridport back to 4–3.
Continuing to push forward, Bridport’s equaliser came in the 79th minute when captain Cait
Corbett delivered a corner that Oldrid powered home for her fourth goal of the game.
Bridport’s attacking pressure earned them a deserved point, with a sense all three could
have been taken, while Chloe Oldrid was named Player of the Match after scoring all four
goals on her debut.

Bridport now turn their attention to next Sunday’s home fixture against Banwell as they look
to build on this performance.
- Keela Elliott