Womens vs Wells City Ladies First

Match Report: Somerset County Women’s League Cup Third Round

Wells City Ladies 4 - 0 Bridport FC Ladies

Bridport FC Ladies faced a tough challenge in the League Cup third round, travelling to face Wells City Ladies, the current leaders of Division One. With Wells having lost just one game all season and Bridport missing key players due to injury, illness, and holidays, it was always going to be a difficult fixture. However, with league ambitions the primary focus, the team approached the game with the mindset of enjoying the occasion and giving their best effort.

Despite the odds, Bridport started brightly and unsettled Wells in the opening exchanges. Pressing high and creating early chances, the Bees showed they weren’t just here to make up the numbers. Defensively, they stood strong against a quality Wells side, with disciplined organisation keeping the home team at bay. Wells’ first real chance came from a corner, but their effort sailed over the bar. As the half progressed, Wells began to dominate possession and created a series of half-chances, but Bridport’s defensive resilience continued to frustrate them.

However, in the 38th minute, Wells finally broke through. A clearance from the Bridport defence was returned too easily, and a well-placed pass found their forward, who made no mistake in finishing past the keeper. Despite the setback, Bridport remained competitive, and the first half ended 1-0.

With limited options from the bench and another player struggling with injury, Bridport began the second half knowing they had to push for a goal before fatigue set in. Clare Darby led the charge up front, chasing every loose ball and causing problems for the Wells defence. The midfield and backline continued to work tirelessly, but the fresh legs of the opposition soon made an impact.

In the 56th minute, Wells doubled their lead with a well-taken goal from a converted corner. Just two minutes later, they struck again, a well-timed through ball setting up a one-on-one that was calmly finished. With Bridport battling on despite the mounting challenge, Wells added their fourth in the 77th minute, sealing a deserved victory.

Although Bridport couldn’t find a consolation goal, they can take plenty of positives from the performance. Against a strong Division One side, they showed resilience, quality, and a belief that will serve them well in their league campaign. Should promotion be secured this season, this game proved that Bridport can compete at the next level.

Player of the Match: Clare Darby – relentless energy, pressing, and determination throughout. There were other players also worthy of a shout for their performances as well which they can all be proud of.

Wells City progress to the quarter-finals as worthy contenders, while Bridport turn their attention back to their title push in Division Two.