MINEHEAD AFC Under 13s, top of their division in the Somerset Girls Football, made the long two hour journey to play against their Chew Valley counterparts - and came away losing 2-1.

Nursing a week of illnesses, and with a stand in goalkeeper and only one substitute, the visitors knew that a tough challenge lay ahead.

From the first whistle, Chew Valley took advantage of Minehead’s travel legs, pressing hard and securing an early lead within the opening minutes. The Chew Valley goal acted as the wake up call Minehead needed, and the team reacted positively. The visitors quickly settled into their rhythm, they linked up well across the pitch, and created several promising chances to test the Chew Valley keeper.

Around the 20 minute mark, their persistence was rewarded with a well worked goal, after which there was no further score in the opening half sending the teams into the break level at 1 -1.

The second half saw Minehead pushing uphill on the slope, with Chew Valley clearly hungry for the win. Despite the pressure, Minehead stood firm, defending as a team and communicating well.

Ten minutes into the second half, Chew Valley struck again with a quality finish from just inside the box.

Minehead were far from done, however, and continued to work hard, threading balls through the gaps and creating opportunities. However, try as they did, it just wasn’t to be their day and the final whistle blew, it was Chew Valley who celebrated the win.

Despite the result the Minehead Under 13 girls should be proud of themselves. No matter what the circumstances, they show up, work hard, and dig deep until the final whistle. Their determination and team spirit were clear for all to see.

Despite their loss, only their second of the season, Minehead stay top of their section.