Bude played Exeter Rangers in a friendly at home on Sunday 16th.  It was
Bude's turn to show fighting spirit as the visitors took the lead within 5
minutes. With time on their side, Bude kept focused and an even display
followed, both sides having chances and some fine football being played.
Sarah Badham equalised 10 minutes from half time and came close to her
second as her shot rolled over the crossbar. Katie Horstmann also placed her
shot just wide of the post.  Captain Lizzy Jenkins made some brave saves to
deny the visitors and it remained 1-1 at half time.  However, the visitors
upped their game in the second half and slick moves saw them score 2 goals
in quick succession.  Bude did not give in and battled well, Anita Symons
and Katie Horstmann working particularly hard and new signings Briony Lapham
and Nicky Cornelius showing their skills.
Despite repeated and structured attacks, Bude were denied by the keeper but
they kept on trying.  Giving 100% in attack the team were caught on the
break and with Exeter's striker one-on-one she placed their 4th past the
keeper.  Stand in centre back Dell Birkenshaw showed her versatility,
tackling well to deny the pacy strikers but it was an unstoppable shot that
gave Exeter a 5th, rocketing in the roof of the net from outside the box.  A
sixth goal rebounded in just as the final whistle was blown and the match
finished 1-6.  Bude will start their season next Sunday taking encouragement
from a superb first half performance.