Bridport FC Ladies 10

Burnham United Ladies 0

With the league season hitting the halfway point and just eight games left, Bridport FC Ladies entered this fixture at the top of the Somerset County Women's League, closely pursued by Cheddar and Ilminster.

Whilst the Bees had secured earlier wins over both of these rivals, Cheddar maintained a superior goal difference and held games in hand, adding extra pressure for Bridport to keep their lead.

Facing Burnham for the second time this season, the team had a point to prove after a narrow 4-3 loss away.

After also failing to beat Burnham last season, this team was becoming something of a hurdle for the Bees.

In the first half, Bridport set up with a defensive strategy to deny Burnham any opportunities for counter-attacks.

It took a bit of time to find their rhythm and refine their passing, but the home side quickly began testing their opponents defense.

In the 16th minute, Mel Phillips delivered a precise pass to Clare Darby, who weighted the ball perfectly for Aleeshea Rowland to break through and slot home the opening goal.

Just four minutes later, Rowland struck again, pressing high as Burnham scrambled to clear their lines.

Her momentum continued, as she completed her hat trick only four minutes after that. Darby then joined the scoresheet in the 35th minute, seizing a loose ball to make it 4-0 with her trademark tenacity.

Bridport Ladies first team beat Burnham United Ladies 10-0 to keep their title challenge on course Bridport Ladies first team beat Burnham United Ladies 10-0 to keep their title challenge on course (Image: ROBIN PROCTER) With the half winding down, Sophie Northover set up Rowland for her fourth. After challenging a goal kick, Northover broke through the backline, finding Rowland who capitalized to end the first half at 5-0.

Early in the second half, Rowland struck again. A cross from Maisie Macdonald found its way to her, allowing Rowland to calmly chip the ball over the keeper for her fifth goal.

At 57 minutes, she scored her sixth off a brilliant free kick from substitute Cimon Barnard Irons, which Rowland controlled beautifully before chipping, turning, and firing in a sensational shot.

Rowland added two more before the game’s end, making it an astonishing eight-goal haul. Macdonald also joined the action, driving into the box and chipping the keeper, who had made a number of impressive saves throughout the game.

While Rowland’s double hat trick deserved all the praise, the superb performance from the Bees midfield and defense did not go unnoticed,  with Sophie Northover picking up the player of the match for her tireless work rate, skillful assists, and quality performance across the full 90 minutes.