Chard ladies defeat Exe

FOLLOWING the recent Covid-19 lockdown, Chard ladies were eager to get back on to the pitch to play on Saturday.

Having missed fixtures where they were likely to gain points, Chard made the most of the opportunity to pick up their first win of the season.

Chard’s first goal did not take long to arrive, after some strong attacking play, as a reverse stick ball through the D from Lyndsay Blackshaw found Amy Goss, who pushed it calmly past the Exe keeper.

The captaincy duo were quick to reverse roles and gain a second goal, when following a fantastic run from the halfway line Goss’ cross found Blackshaw in the right place to convert.

Chard continued to look dangerous on the attack and any chances during the first half for Exe were easily thwarted.

With one of the most skilful defensive back lines in the league, Chard keeper Hannah McGown was left with few saves to make, and it was the hosts again who found the goal before the half-time whistle.

Goss looked to score again, but this time it was Lorna Warren whose quick reactions got her the goal, after picking up the rebound off the keeper.

A half-time jinx looked to get the better of Chard in the first few minutes of the second half.

Exe won three short corners on the trot and managed to secure a rebound goal off the third one to make it 3-1.

Chard weren’t to be discouraged, though, and a chance again from Goss rebounded to Kerryn Mullis, who slotted the ball into the goal from an almost impossible angle.

The home side continued to put in a stellar performance against tiring opposition and it was Blackshaw who made the last mark of the game, taking on half of the Exe team and finishing with a cool sweep into the net.

It was a hard pick for player of the match, with the whole squad putting in a deserving performance, but it was Blackshaw who secured it for her excellent control of the game play and the creation of attacking plays.

Chard squad: Hannah McGown (GK), EJ Hines, Emma Cridland, Jade Dunning, Chloe Park, Evie Trafford, Lyndsay Blackshaw (C), Katie Lee, Amy Goss (C), Rose Trafford, Lois Butcher, Lorna Warren, Sophie Gibbins, Kerryn Mullis. Match sponsors: Koller; umpires: Jim Sainsbury & Andy Swain

Having had a month off due to lockdown, Chard ladies now have a month off over Christmas, with their next scheduled fixture set to be away to Sidmouth & Ottery 3rds on January 16, 2021.

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ELSEWHERE on Saturday, Chard men’s 1st XI lost 2-0 away to Southern 2 leaders Isca C, while Chard B drew 3-3 at Isca E in South East 2.

This coming Saturday sees Chard host Duchy A (2pm), Chard A go to West Dorset (2pm) and Chard B entertain ECV Hornets B (12.30pm).