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OKEHAMPTON LADIES’ FIRSTS 2

BUDE LADIES’ FIRSTS 3

FOLLOWING their successful promotion, Okehampton ladies’ first team had their first league match this Saturday in their new league.

The game was a test of skill and endurance as the team started to settle in against Bude ladies’ first team.

Oke’s defence was tested throughout, with new players - including Rachel Adams and Emelia Bazeley - stepping up to the first team and proving their worth. They were supported by Nicky Pedrick and Helen Dolton. By half time the home side were losing 1-0 but after a team talk from new captain Laura Parsons Oke started the second half with high hopes.

With some super passing around the wings by Annie Strawbridge, Joey Drake and Emma Wiseman Okehampton created some shots on goal. Their first success came from a series of short corners scored by Claire Grubb. The second was also scored from a short corner by Kim McGrattan who dodged three Bude defenders before hitting the backboard.

Bude kept up a strong attacking side throughout, a highlight being the cracking reverse hit that none of the Oke defence were willing to get in the way of. Thanks to Oke’s player of the match goalkeeper Carol Newman, Bude were restricted to three goals. Nicky Strawbridge and Lesley Bingham made a break nearer the final whistle but the home side could not clinch an equaliser.