Devizes 0, Bretforton 3

AFTER Saturday's long drive into Wiltshire, Bretforton were first to settle and they produced some good positive play in midfield.

Julie Hall, Blanche Surman and Andrea Cole all linked well down the left to create chances, while Surman made some crucial tackles to keep their right winger at bay.

Sophie Corbett and Lisa Workman worked well on the opposite flank together with right back Michaela Amphlett and they were rewarded when a good pass from Cole found Deb Slatter who used her pace to leave two defenders in her wake and round the goalkeeper before slamming the ball into the goal.

Devizes were forced to concede a number of short corners as the pressure continued and a set-piece brought a second goal when Corbett's initial shot was blocked but Jane Wheeler's reverse flick lifted the ball over the keeper.

Neat passing

Towards the end of the first half, Slatter and Gilly Wright sliced through the defence with some neat passing and the former, having drawn the keeper, slipped the ball to her teammate who made no mistake.

Devizes came back strongly at the start of the second half and goalkeeper Vicky Webb made a number of excellent saves.

Defenders Wheeler, Surman, Bobbie Handley and Michaela Amphlett were all kept busy in an attempt to repel relentless pressure.

Having held on to their lead, Bretforton finally fought their way out and player of the match Amphlett made a number of excellent runs down the right as Bretforton went in search of more goals.

The match ball was sponsored by Martyn Cole Architectural Design.

Bretforton II 0, Newent 0

LEAGUE leaders Newent proved a tough test but the hosts came out with flying colours after an entertaining goalless encounter.

The visitors showed great skill and speed throughout a relentless first half when Bretforton fought hard and often had to rely on rousing defensive play to frustrate their lofty foes.

Centre Back Marion Icke, Fiona Jordan, Bernie Amphlett and Lesley McKinnon all defended stoutly in front of goalkeeper Fiona Lovecy whose efforts earned her the player of the match vote.

The occasional break was made into Newent's goal area and the best opportunity in the first half came from a short corner by Shirley Aubrey that flashed wide.

Play was a little more open after the break when Bretforton showed more control and attacking options as the half progressed.

Kate Williams fired just wide and Kim Barry again proved useful on the right combining well with Sue Shephard in attacking forays.

Jude Edghill provided fresh legs on the left but it was the leaders who would have snatched the points had it not been for Lovecy's excellent form.

Bretforton are away to Yate on Saturday.