MINEHEAD, chasing second place in Division One of the Under 13 section in the Somerset Girls Football League and having played only two games in three months, suffered an agonising 3-2 away defeat against Swiss Valley. Minehead started brightly, setting the tempo from the first whistle and after nine minutes a superbly delivered ball was met and converted to put them into a 1–0 lead.

Swiss Valley, who began the game in the runners-up spot, responded positively, creating chances of their own, before making the most of a breakaway opportunity to level the scores just before the break.

Minehead regained control after the interval producing some of their best football of the game. They were rewarded when a rebound fell kindly to the striker, who calmly struck the ball into the net to restore the advantage.

The visitors continued to manage the game well, moving the ball effectively and defending as a unit whenever called upon. However, Swiss Valley once again capitalised on a breakthrough run to equalise at 2–2.

With ten minutes remaining, Minehead pushed hard in search of a winner. Their work rate, determination and togetherness were clear to see, creating several promising chances and showing the character of the team that made their coaches incredibly proud.

Heartbreakingly though with just a minute left to play, Swiss Valley broke forward once more and slotted home the decisive goal. The final whistle followed shortly after giving the three points to the home side.

Despite the result, Minehead can take huge positives from a strong performance full of effort and quality.

Attention now turns quickly to the reverse fixture when Minehead will welcome Swiss Valley to West Somerset College, Saturday, 7th March, 10:30am kick off. It should be another enthalling game.