Taunton Vale 2

MINEHEAD Ladies’ season got underway on Saturday with a friendly at home to Taunton Vale.

They welcomed back Stacey Bosley after an absence of six years and Olivia Weatherlake, and there were also debut appearances for Sophie Osler, Amelia Swallow and Kelsey Howard.

Taunton took an early lead which was doubled midway through the first half, but within minutes Minehead pulled a goal back when Denise Lancaster finished from close range, making it 2-1 at half-time.

Minehead created several chances but found it hard to beat Taunton’s in-form keeper, and Weatherlake thought she had equalised but the ball hit the post.

They eventually levelled when a ball out of defence found Stacey Bosley on the right wing, she played in Naomi Trunks who crossed for Lancaster to score again.

She then beat the keeper again but the whistle had blown for a short corner and the goal was not allowed.

Minehead were not to be denied, and the winner came shortly after when a well-worked short corner routine with Hazel Binding resulted in Lancaster completing her hat-trick.

Minehead: Eleanor Kaye, Sophie Osler, Carol Matravers, Amy Tishall, Fenella Bennett, Naomi Trunks, Hazel Binding, Olivia Weatherlake, Stacey Bosley, Denise Lancaster, Charlotte Taylor, Amelia Swallow, Kelsey Howard.

l The previous Saturday saw Carol Matravers, Denise Lancaster and Hazel Binding join Taunton Vale Over 45s (pictured) to play Taunton Vale Under 25s. The squad have been formed for the England Masters Over 45s Cup, and with Binding scoring the first goal, they went on to win 7-4.

l Minehead’s league programme starts tomorrow (Saturday) when the first team are away to Winscombe and the second team are home to White Eagles (10.30 am).

l If you have been inspired by the GB Ladies’ gold medal performance in Rio, the club are keen to attract new members so you are welcome to go along to training and give the game a go.

Training is underway on Tuesday evenings, with juniors from 6 to 7pm and seniors from 7pm.