Tough trip down to Taunton

Taunton Vale Ladies 3rd 5 Mid-Somerset Ladies 0

For the first time this season, Mid-Somerset Ladies were well beaten by a fellow Sedgemoor League Division 1 outfit as Taunton Vale put in a five-star display.

It would be easy to cite the unavailability of players for the defeat but those who came in as replacements all had solid games. Mary Dowden and Sarah Clarke both tackled and covered well on the flanks, while Nicole French was a revelation as replacement goalkeeper, making a series of excellent saves.

Vale took the lead after 14 minutes from an incisive attack as a flicked shot was followed up after an initial save by French. Two minutes later, they doubled the lead after a dribble along the Mids goalline set up an unstoppable finish.

When a third goal arrived just before half-time, Vale looked set for a comfortable victory.

In the second half, the home side's experienced midfield gave little opportunity for Mids to gain control or possession.

However, the visitors' spirit and work-rate remained undaunted. It would have been easy to lose heart but if this game proved anything it is that there is an excellent team spirit within the club.

Vale's continued territorial advantage was rewarded by two late goals – one in open play and one from a penalty stroke after French brought down a Vale player.

The only negative feature of the game was the sending off of a Vale player after a poor tackle two minutes from time.

Mid-Somerset are still in the hunt for a second specialist goalkeeper. Anyone interested is welcome to attend training sessions from 7.15pm on Thursdays at Wells Blue School.