Bridgwater United women are in the hat for the second round proper of the FA Cup after overcoming Torquay United.

The Robins newest signing Connie Pengelly scored a penalty on debut to secure the victory at Newton Abbot on Sunday (November 3).

New signing Pengelly was one of three changes made to the starting XI from a league victory over Keynsham last time out. Elizabeth Gimson and Daniella Tyson also came in to the side with Keeley Banfield, Chloe Kind and Hollie Tappin all dropping out.

Their opponents Torquay United are in the South West Regional Women’s League.

The home side made the better start to the game with Bridgwater ‘keeper Alex Madden forced to collect a corner ball in the first couple minutes and the Robins had to stay composed early on as Torquay applies pressure.

United were able to break away on eight minutes as new signing Pengelly set up Ella-Mae Miller on the edge of the area but her shot sailed over.

Madden was forced into a number of saves in the remainder of the first half but the score was 0-0 at the break.

Bridgwater United looked to get on top early after the break and within 60 seconds they had a free kick which Jessica Smith took but her shot goes over the bar.

Smith had another chance to score on 55 minutes when the ball fell to her on the edge of the area but she fired wide.

Then on 68 minutes, the referee judges that Bethany Everson was fouled in the box and awarded Bridgwater United a penalty which was duly converted by Pengelly.

The Robins continued to maintain their control on the match, with Torquay’s only real chance being a ball over the defence but Madden was able to collect.

Captain Hana Bennett was awarded player of the match and Bridgwater United head through to the second round proper.

It’s back to league action for Bridgwater United next week as they welcome second placed Bournemouth Sports to Fairfax Park.  The Robins will be hoping they can take the positives from this FA Cup win into that game and help them pull clear of the relegation zone.

Bridgwater United: Madden, Miller, Gimson, Sharpe, Bennett, Everson, Tyson, Owen, Pengelly, Smith, Spiers. Subs: Tappin, Proctor, Cox.