Womens vs Highburn Athletic Ladies

Bridport FC Ladies Secure Crucial Home Win in Title Race

Bridport FC Ladies kept their league title hopes alive with a vital 5-1 victory in their final home game of the season. With just three games remaining, every point is crucial in the race against rivals Cheddar, who secured a key win against third-place Ilminster Ladies Reserves to edge ahead of the Bees on goal difference by a single goal.

This match was more than just a battle for three points; it was an opportunity to inspire the next generation, as Bridport's youth girls’ teams were invited to walk out onto the pitch and experience the atmosphere of matchday. With an estimated crowd of over 100 supporters, it was a fantastic display of local support for women's football.

Before kick-off, Bridport FC joined football clubs across all levels in paying tribute to 10-year-old Poppy Atkinson, who tragically lost her life last week after being struck by a car on a sports pitch. A moment of reflection was observed in her memory.

Match Report

The Bees started the game somewhat cautiously, struggling to find rhythm after a long break due to multiple postponements since February 2nd. Despite this, they struck early in the 9th minute when Aleeshea Rowland combined with Holly Perryment, who finished well inside the box to give Bridport the lead.

Highburn responded with a period of controlled play, frustrating Bridport at times. It took until the 28th minute for Clare Darby to break through, finishing with a well-struck effort to double the advantage. Just before halftime, league top scorer Aleeshea Rowland opened her account for the day, breaking into space and slotting home a well-placed shot to make it 3-0.

Half-Time: Bridport FC Ladies 3-0 Highburn

The halftime team talk focused on maintaining control and improving passing quality. Bridport responded by stepping up the pressure in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Rowland capitalised on a Georgie Hughes corner, firing home to make it 4-0.

On 63 minutes, Rowland completed yet another hat-trick for the season, outpacing the Highburn defense and finishing clinically from a well-timed Darby pass. Bridport created further chances but failed to convert some promising opportunities.

In the 87th minute, an error while defending a corner led to a handball inside the box, gifting Highburn a penalty. Despite goalkeeper Zoe Disley-German getting a hand to it, Helen Ash converted the spot-kick to make it 5-1.

Full-Time: Bridport FC Ladies 5-1 Highburn

Bridport took home an important three points along with a valuable goal difference boost. With two away fixtures remaining, the focus now turns to Street FC next Sunday, followed by a crucial clash against third-placed Ilminster Reserves in early April. Every goal and every result will be decisive in the final push for the league title.