The three points had been Mendip’s when these two sides met earlier this season and the home team were certainly hoping for a repeat performance.
Much of the early attacking pressure was from Mendip and they played well, keeping the Keynsham defence busy. Mendip opened the scoring after a well-worked new short corner routine.
Instead of the usual ball out to the top of the D, it came nearside to Karen Inns, whose slap shot crossed over in front of goal and following a bit of a scramble, right wing Emily Browning was perfectly positioned to tap the ball over the line at the far post.
The visitors managed to draw level before the half-time whistle and it seemed a more determined, physical Keynsham side which turned out to play the second period of the match.
The visitors had an early break and scored another goal which only seemed to boost them and deflate the home side.
Mendip struggled to find their form during the second half and played an increasingly defensive game. Had it not been for a sterling performance in goal by Oenone Bodman Harris, it would not have been just one goal separating the teams. Her athletic saves and absolute commitment when going one-on-one made her the worthy winner of Mendip’s Player of the Match award.
Mendip now have a break from the league with a friendly fixture next week in Bristol against South Gloucestershire.
Karen Inns