MATCH REPORT

Bridgnorth Spartans Ladies travelled to Handrahan Stadium, Wall Heath to take on Dudley United.  This always promised to be a physical game and the performance did not disappoint.

Bridgnorth were confident after two wins against Madeley but knew not to underestimate the strength and determination of this Dudley squad.  The game started at a rapid pace with Dudley closing down every opportunity Bridgnorth had to create some space.  It was Spartans however that took the early lead from a corner ball headed into the back of the net by the opposition, following a scramble to clear the line.  An unfortunate error for the home side....1-0

Bridgnorth encouraged by this early goal soon found their true form and passed the ball smoothly around the field.  Once again with a strong midfield consisting of Vicky HARPER, Gemma KAY, Jo BUTLER and Lou HUDSON dominated the centre half, allowing strikers ALLEN and PERRY to pursue the second.

Yet it was HARPER who slotted the second for Spartans following a great through ball from PERRY.  HARPER found herself one on one with the keeper and calmly tapped it home...2-0.

Dudley undeterred continued the pressure on the visitors and made some strong challenges.  Spartans saw Kirsty HAYWOOD taking up a new position just in front of the back line, her calm approach and ability to read the game was a pleasure to watch.  Helen GORDOS had her best game yet with some great footwork and sound advice, she really has evolved as a player.

Spartans make another attack on goal and a lovely pass from HARPER, saw   Becky ALLEN lob the keeper for Nicola PERRY to head home the third...3-0.

Half time brought the opportunity for both teams to address their game...Spartans knew that Dudley would come out fighting and complacency was not an option.

Early in the second half it was HAYWOOD who lined up the next attack after a beautifully placed ball to KAY who remain composed as she took on three defenders and placed the ball in the back of the net...4-0.

Bridgnorth Skipper PERRY still suffering from an injury during the game against Madeley was replaced by Anna SORBOM, who added that little bit of sparkle to the game.  Within minutes of entering the field she powered home a loose ball to make it 5-0 Spartans.

It was SORBOM again who tried to penetrate the home defence, unsuccessful she turned to find HARPER all too willing to send that ball soaring into the top corner...final result 6-0.

A very enjoyable game and a real battle.  Thanks to Dudley United for the post match refreshments.

Bridgnorth Spartans Ladies have named their Vice Captain as Helen GORDOS based upon her performance today and her continued support to the whole squad...well done Helen.

BRIDGNORTH SPARTANS PLAYER OF MATCH ARE:

1)  Jo BUTLER

2)  Kirsty HAYWOOD