Bude 1 V
Plymouth Argyle Reserves 0
Bude played
their first match in the South West Div 1 South at home to Plymouth
Argyle reserves. Bude knew that this would be a difficult fixture
with Argyle having a huge squad of experienced players but they were
up for the challenge and it showed. The home side began in an
attacking formation and midfielders Dell Birkenshaw, Gemma Smith,
Sarah Badham and Leanne Stanbury closed every Argyle move
down. Both sides were using the full width of the pitch and Leona
Marsh was exceptional at right back, completely in control of her
area, ensuring that she won every ball.
With Bude
pushing on Gemma Smith came close to opening the scoring when her
long range shot hit both posts but didn't cross the line. Shortly
after Argyle had a shot tipped over the bar by keeper Lisa Cornish
but it was Bude who took the lead when Dell Birkenshaw's neat pass
found Katie Horstmann who slotted past the keeper. Argyle battled
for an equaliser winning a number of corners but Bude defended well,
clearing their lines every time and still pushing on for another
goal. An unfortunate collision just before half time resulted in
the Argyle centre back being taken to hospital and the first half
ended 1-0.
A revived Argyle
came out in the second half, the attack was relentless and Bude
defended like trojans. Rose Knuckey and Rhianne Parsons bombarded
Bude but they held firm. With every home player giving 110% they
ensured no way through and it remained 1-0 at full time.
