Mendip knew that they would have to be on top of their game to take the points from this match. In previous encounters, Cheddar had always proved to be the stronger side to secure victory.
For the first quarter of the match it seemed that the usual outcome of a Cheddar win may be reversed and Mendip looked strong. They were the first to open their scoring account with a brilliantly taken shot from right wing Emily Browning. She was calm under pressure to beat the keeper after a flowing attacking move which started in midfield.
After going behind, the home team increasingly got a foot-hold in the match and had more attacking play. They managed to draw level and then put another two goals past Mendip before the half time whistle.
The Mendip defence were busy throughout the match with Jess Baird covering a lot of ground in her right back position and Sally Stanford providing a vital link and pivot in central midfield. Mendip’s player
of the match was central defender, Olivia Collins, who proved her worth with timely tackles and great positional play.
Mendip were hopeful to hold the home team to a goalless draw in the second half, but Cheddar managed to score once more a few minutes before the final whistle.
Next week, Mendip are at home in Midsomer Norton to continue their league campaign against Keynsham, 1.30 p.m. start at Norton Hill School.
Karen Inns