Knowle had only lost one game to date and occupied the third position in the league, but seventh placed Mendip did not let this fact deter them. They hit the pitch running, keen to build on last week’s performance and improve their match play.
What ensued was a great testament to Mendip’s strength and depth as a squad, and every single player simply did their job well. Great communication and team work ensured Mendip were equal to the challenge posed by the home team, and they worked tirelessly in every area of the pitch.
Goal keeper, Oenone Bodman-Harris, made some crucial point blank diving saves to ensure Mendip kept a clean sheet. Jess Baird was strong at right back and thwarted many a Knowle attack, at times picking out the ball from mid-air, then distributing it through to midfield.
There was no score by half-time and Mendip increasingly felt confident they could take something from the match. Throughout the second half they applied pressure to the home team’s defence and the breakthrough came ten minutes from the end with a skilful goal from midfielder, Karen Inns, much to her team’s delight.
Mendip’s Player of the Match was central defender, Grace Harding, who absolutely played out of her skin. Her timely tackles stopped Knowle in their tracks and her positional play was excellent.
This weekend Mendip have a friendly fixture at Norton Hill School against South Gloucestershire, 10.30 a.m. start.