A TENSE and entertaining game ended in a close result for Victoria Sports and Bridgwater Town Ladies.

The game saw the second from the first division play the second in the second division on a bumpy pitch with a strong wind blowing from one end to the other.

Town played against the wind in the first half and started well. Sports then came into the game and created a couple of chances, which could have put them ahead but for poor finishing.

Town held them at bay with stout defending and a little fortune, and were able to counter attack on the break.

After 29 minutes, on one of these attacks, Town took the lead against the run of play.

Charlotte Barnes played a ball forward into the feet of Anneka Russ just inside the penalty area. Russ turned quickly and was brought down by Sports captain, Helen.

Russ took the kick herself and buried it into the left corner.

The introduction of Ami Ward into midfield, seemed to strengthen Town and they pushed forward towards the end of the half.

They were unlucky when a cross shot by Emily Morris beat the keeper and hit the bar before being cleared, and they continued to have the better of the play up until half-time.

Playing with the wind behind them, Town started well in the second half and increased their lead in the 48th minute.

Mandy Gornicki-Bond struck a lovely 25-yard free kick that went in off the under side of the bar giving the keeper little chance.

Town created several other chances but went to sleep after 58 minutes when a through ball was turned in by a Sports forward. This woke Town up and they pressed forward but could not increase their lead.

Against the wind, Sports occasionally threatened but Town finished the stronger in this highly entertaining cup match.

This win sets up an intriguing fixture in the next round, on February 20 when Town Ladies are away to Town Ladies Reserves.