With only five fixtures left in the league, this was a match from which Mendip sorely needed three points to ensure safety, but it was not to be. Mendip struggled to find their form, and within ten minutes of the starting whistle, found themselves a goal down.
The first half is perhaps one which the away side will choose to forget, as there were not many positives to take away. Indeed, Keynsham managed to double their lead going into the half time break.
Thankfully, a much-improved performance from Mendip ensued in the second half. Joint-Player of the Match, Oenone Bodman-Harris was outstanding in goal, pulling off some excellent saves to keep her team in contention. Central defender Sarah Whittaker shared the Player of the Match accolade with her impressive work often stopping the Keynsham attackers in their tracks to then carry the ball forward, supporting the Mendip forwards.
Mendip were able to put pressure on the home team defence and were rewarded with a goal coming from right wing Karen Inns, who reacted quickly to a loose ball in the D to beat the keeper. Mendip kept strong at the back for the remainder of the half, and thanks to sterling work from Olivia Collins in defence, Keynsham did not cross Mendip lines again.
With the clock ticking away, Mendip searched for the equaliser to try and get something from the match, but all the points went to the home side.
Next week Mendip are at home (weather permitting) in Midsomer Norton for a 10.30 a.m. start at Norton Hill School against Firebrands 4.
Karen Inns