SOHC ladies 1st team were 4-1 winners when they met Firebrands III in their latest league game.

The match was played in glorious Ottery St Mary winter sunshine and the Bristol-based visitors arrived in East Devon sitting a point above the hosts in the table.

Given that Firebrands always field a competitive side the home team were under no illusions that this would be a tough contest.

SOHC began well with a good tempo and their early endeavours were rewarded by a Frankie Elliott goal.

With Maisie Pritchard and Sara Roberts orchestrating things through the middle the home side were good value for their lead and, as the pressure grew, it was no more than they deserved when Prictahrd doubled the lead before the break.

The home team, having put a great deal into their collective first half effort, made the most of the break. However, it soon became apparent that during the interval Firebrands had been reminded of the importance of the fixture and they flew out of the traps after the restart.

The Bristol side struck first after the break, reducing the arrears with a clinical finsish past the once again impressive Hayley Delasalle in the home goal.

Firebrands went in search of an equaliser, but a combination of the Delasalle excellence and some superb defending from Emily Ackland and Chloe Munn, there was to be no further joy in front of goal for the visitors.

A two goal margin was restored midway through the second half when Karen Dutton kept her clam to slot home and the points were sealed when Nicky ‘Bish’ Lockyer, completed the scoring.

The Chick of the Day award went to the richly deserving Grace Johnson, but it also needs reporting that every player involved put in a superb shift for the cause.

Next up for the ladies’ senior side is a trip on Saturday to Bridgwater for an 11.30am start.

New players are always welcomed at a very friendly club. Find out more by visiting the clubs well informed website at www.sidmouthandotteryhc.co.uk