Somerset County Women’s League division one: Bridport Ladies 1, Wellington Wildcats Ladies 2
Our Wildcats Ladies began their campaign in style with a dramatic away win over Bridport Ladies, sealed by a stunning injury-time strike.
Player-of-the-match Milly Howe is pictured with Steve Crudge.
The opening 45 minutes were evenly contested, with both sides showing attacking intent but unable to break the deadlock. Wildcats carved out chances through Robyn Stockman and Chloe Payne, both seeing efforts well saved.
Captain Grace Winter’s fine header from a corner was also denied by the home goalkeeper while, at the other end, Wildcats’ stopper Bianca Hamlyn produced two crucial saves of her own to ensure the sides went into half-time at 0–0.
The second half sparked into life after 65 minutes when Leah Morrell calmly slotted home to give Wildcats a deserved lead. Bridport, however, responded with determination and levelled in the 74th minute.
Moments later, the hosts thought they had edged in front, only for the referee to halt play for an earlier foul instead of playing advantage — a decision which left Bridport frustrated.
With the game heading towards a draw, Wildcats showed real character and composure in midfield. Georgia Purdy dictated play with her passing and work rate, linking well with Keeley Coates, while Milly Howe drove the team forward, underlining why she would later be named player-of-the-match.
Debutant Nyima Touray impressed at right-back with her determination, making a strong contribution in her first competitive outing, and the Wildcats defence of Touray, Winter, Emily Ayers, and Grayson Kennard were excellent from start to finish.
The decisive moment came deep into injury time. A loose ball fell kindly to Howe on the edge of the box, and she unleashed a superb strike which flew past the Bridport keeper, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Wildcats players and travelling supporters.
At the final whistle, Wildcats had secured all three points and the perfect start to their league campaign. Bridport may feel hard done by after their disallowed effort, but Wildcats’ quality and resilience made them worthy winners.
Special mention goes to Kelly Dinning, who signed late on Friday and made the long trip to Bridport, but remained an unused substitute.
Team: Bianca Hamlyn, Nyima Touray, Emily Ayers, Grace Winter, Grayson Kennard, Robyn Stockman, Georgia Purdy, Milly Howe, Keeley Coates, Leah Morrell, Chloe Payne. Substitute: Kelly Dinning (not used).
On Sunday, Wildcats are away to Banwell Ladies.
