Bretforton 0, Clifton 1

ON A chilly afternoon Bretforton were caught cold in the opening five minutes of Saturday's league clash.

A deft pass from the Clifton midfield dissected the defence and goalkeeper Vicky Webb was left with little chance of saving.

The hosts continued to struggle for the majority of the first half as they found it difficult to keep pace with the Clifton forwards. Chances on goal were few and far between with Gilly Wright making some good runs up front only to find the defence in stubborn mood.

After an interval pep talk from coach Marcus Jordan and some positional changes, the Vale outfit became far more positive and they began finding their players.

With Jane Wheeler making some good passes from a defensive midfield position and Sophie Corbett and Lisa Workman working hard to penetrate the Clifton defence, the pressure paid off but Emily Aston saw two efforts hit a post.

Corbett also saw her effort flash narrowly wide from a short corner.

Player of the match Michaela Amphlett made several timely interceptions while providing some great ball for the forwards.

However, the improvement failed to bring an equaliser and the early goal proved decisive.

The match ball was sponsored by the Evesham Journal.

Bretforton II 0, Leominster 4

SATURDAY produced another disappointing result for the hosts who were totally overwhelmed for the opening 20 minutes.

The first goal came after just minutes with a superb strike on a short corner and, as Bretforton struggled to get into the game, their opponents took advantage despite brave some defending.

Ceri Barber and Jude Edghill both fought hard but even their efforts failed to prevent a second despite initial saves from Fiona Lovecy following another set-piece.

Bretforton gradually started to use the ball released by the defence and made some play in the midfield but opportunities in the forward area were scarce and the defence was again put under pressure.

Fiona Jordan again showed great skill as sweeper and she needed to bet at her best in the second period when the balance of power stayed with Leominster.

Marion Icke also showed strength in the centre and provided motivation for younger members of the team.

Bretforton did well to withstand a series of attacks and they were then able to push up the field more.

Player of the match Kim Barry showed good skill and speed while also covering space in the middle to move the ball to Bretforton's advantage.

She provided the home side with their best chance of the half as her super run and square pass saw Sarah Bragg unable to find the net after an initial shot had been saved.

The match ball was sponsored by Brian Collett Quality Fruit and Vegetables. Bretforton are at home to Stroud on Saturday.