Women’s Football Academy Advance To Next Round Of AOC Cup With 3-2 Win Over Brockenhurst

Last Wednesday, the Women’s Football Academy team headed to Brockenhurst in New Forest for an AOC Cup fixture.

After a tense opening exchange, Bexhill were awarded a penalty in the 17^th minute, which was neatly converted by Megan Griffiths. Brockenhurst quickly pulled a goal back, scoring in the 27^th minute to ensure that the scores remained the same at the half-time whistle.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first, with both teams creating chances and Brockenhurst hitting the bar. Bexhill secured a second goal in the 52^nd minute through a 30-yard strike from Poppy Harrod, which nestled in the top corner. However, in the 72^nd minute, Brockenhurst drew level again. A few minutes later, the hosts then struck the post after an excellent team move.

After absorbing more pressure, Bexhill swiftly broke forward and Poppy Harrod calmly rounded the keeper to make the score 3-2 in the 85^th minute.

A fantastic result in a very close game.

Team Coach, Naomi Shorttle reflected; “It was an incredible team effort today. Several players had to play out of position, but everyone gave 100%. I am extremely proud of everyone in the squad.”

Player Of The Match: Ruby Starkey – Played 90 minutes out of position but never put a foot out of place. A fantastic performance from Ruby.

STARTING XI

2. Sophia Moule
3. Asha Moody
4. Molly Rose
5. Ruby Starkey
6. Daisy Marriott
7. Wen Jiang
8. Poppy Harrod
9. Tilly Coleman
10. Erin Todd
11. Mia Clark
12. Megan Griffiths

Subs:

14. Anya Chatfield
15. Faith McMorran
16. Megan Bowley
17. Ruby-Mae Braithwaite