Bridges Women bow out of the London and South East League Cup tonight at Jubilee Field following a 3-2 loss against premier side Newhaven.

Bridges Women entered the game in strong form looking to carry the momentum into the fixture. However, composure in the box became Bridges downfall.

In the fourth minute, Newhaven had their first chance in front of goal after Rahaus found space in the home side’s box. Goalkeeper Robinson came off her line to deny the opportunity. 12 minutes later, Robinson was called into action again, as Newhaven sent the ball into the crossbar. The ball rebounded and was immediately caught by Robinson.

In the 17^th minute a controlled pass through two defenders by Hughes opened an opportunity for Bridges in the visitors’ box. Unfortunately, for the side, control could not be kept, Newhaven regained possession.

Bridges were then awarded a throw-in level with the visitor’s box. Griffin stepped up to take the set piece before playing the ball into Ratcliffe. Ratcliffe played the ball back to Griffin, who took one touch, sending the ball into the goal. The ball looked to be going into the back of the net, but its pathway was intercepted by Newhaven’s goalkeeper.

It took 30 minutes before the opening goal was scored, however, to Bridges’ dismay it was a visitors’ goal. Newhaven’s Winchester opened the scoring after following up on a rebounded ball. Winchester’s initial effort was directed towards the right-hand side of the net. Robinson reacted instantaneously and made a great save. The ball went back out to Winchester who slotted it just inside the post. Newhaven secured a 1-0 lead.

Having not conceded in recent matches, Bridges responded with renewed determination. One minute after the goal, early substitute Standing made a strong run up the pitch and towards goal. Newhaven gave her the space to eventually take a shot at goal. The ball went in and looked on target; suspense was momentarily held by fans at the opportunity to equalise. However, the shot just fell slightly wide of goal.

With 10 minutes remaining of the first half, Paul was substituted off for a returning Behr.

One minute later and Newhaven extended their advantage with a second goal by Wheatley after a free kick from 30 yards out.

Just before the half-time whistle, Bridges reduced the deficit through Behr. Bridges were awarded a corner; the ball went in but could not be immediately controlled by either side. Amidst the chaos, Ratcliffe gained possession and immediately sent the ball towards the net. The ball is rebounded out by Newhaven’s defence and onto Behr who sent the ball home. Bridges went into half-time with a one goal deficit.

In the opening minutes of the second half, Bridges began defensively, with notably todays player of the match, Clark, dispossessing a Newhaven attack with the perfect block, putting her body on the ball.

In the 60^th and 65^th minute, substitutions were made, Ratcliffe for Slyfield and Standing for Flegg.

Bridges maintained the scoreline with strong pockets of technique and control. Bates demonstrated this after making a quick turn on two members of the opposition twice in the midfield. Her skills and speed, combined with her composure on the ball, drew admiration from the watching spectators.

When Bridges were not reacting well in tight spaces, they were given open opportunity in spaces to take a shot at goal. Sandys equalised after a strike 30 yards out, sending the ball straight into goal, over the goalkeeper’s head and into the back of the net.

Newhaven regained the lead in the 80^th minute, securing their third goal of the night. Newhaven’s Moore made a run towards goal, Slyfield applied pressure at the top of box with Robinson following in support. The ball went out of possession and through the players’ feet, Robinson dived to get it, but could not secure control. Moore picked up the loose ball and sent it into goal.

Bridges finished their League Cup journey with a 3-2 loss against the Premier side Newhaven but will need to make a quick recovery as they look ahead to play at home once again this coming Wednesday. Come along and see the team in action at 8pm on Jubilee Field.