Bretforton Ladies 3, Lansdown II 2

THE Severn League North leaders started off strongly with some excellent smooth passing.

The build up to the first goal saw some quick passing from midfield that ended with Sarah Hall scoring with a superb reverse stick strike.

Bretforton were awarded a short corner towards the end of the first half and it didn't go quite to plan. However, once the ball reached Sophie Corbett it screamed into the net to double the home side's lead.

Lansdown did manage several attacks most of which were cleared up by a strong defence until the ball was deflected into the air and past helpless goalkeeper Vicky Webb.

The visitors picked up their game in the second half and Webb was forced into more great stops including a penalty flick.

Bretforton struck a crucial third goal when Gilly Wright weaved in and out of opponents before finding the net with a rising drive.

Lansdown produced some late pressure and reduced the deficit after a corner but the hosts hung on to consolidate their summit spot.

East Glos II 2, Bretforton II 3

SATURDAY'S match got off to a disastrous start when East Glos scored from a short corner.

They then cruised through the initial 35 minutes with Bretforton not quite keeping up with their sharp passing and youthful speed.

There was some strong play by midfielder Kate Williams to push the ball Bretforton's way but a second goal added to visiting misery.

However, heads didn't go down and they started what was an incredible fightback.

A determined effort saw the midfield pushing up and supporting the forwards and a short corner was converted by a superb strike by Williams.

Bretforton kept the momentum going and shortly after gained another short corner that led to a goal by Shirley Aubrey.

The visitors realised they still had a lot to do in the second half and good defensive play by Natasha Ingles and Lesley McKinnon prevented East Glos netting again while goalkeeper Fiona Baldelli made some good sliding tackles.

Teamwork and improved passing saw Bretforton take the majority of the possession in the last 20 minutes and continued to exert strong pressure on tiring opponents.

Attempts at goal by Andrea Cole and Sue Shepherd failed to make their mark but the pressure saw player of the match Jude Edghill find the net for the winning goal.

Dan Gabb Personal Training sponsored the ball for a side that visits Civil Service II in Cheltenham for a friendly on Saturday.