Wycombe Wanderers

Wycombe Wanderers Ladies slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat on Sunday at home to AFC Bournemouth, who moved to the top of the Premier Division table.

The only goal of the game came inside four minutes, when Hannah Bennett's corner curled straight in.

Despite the setback of the early goal, the Chairgirls rallied and were almost on level terms when six minutes in, debutant Lindsay Pinker struck a free-kick that cannoned off the inside of the post with Bournemouth scrambling the ball clear. The remainder of the first half was a battle of wills which saw Bournemouth enjoy more possession but were frustrated by a hard-working and organised Wycombe team.

The second half delivered more of the same with Bournemouth enjoying more possession but being unable to break down the stubborn resistance of the Chairgirls. Sarah Harrison came closest to bringing parity to the game when her corner from the right struck the frame of the goal with Bournemouth having to defend resolutely again.

This was arguably the best 90 minutes of football from the Chairgirls. Given the context of a disrupted pre-season, it is clear to see the work that the players have been putting into training now translating into improved performances.

AFC Bournemouth are the favourites to win the SRWFL this season so this performance should breed more confidence in the team as we look forward to welcoming one of manager Dave Ward’s former clubs, Ascot United, to Flackwell Heath next Sunday.