ON Saturday Brecon Ladies played Bridgend at Penlan with an earlier than usual midday start to avoid a clash with the rugby being showed on television.

As the game commenced, it became clear that it was going to be a very close game for both teams, with possession seemingly well balanced.

Brecon’s attack worked well together, driving the ball into Bridgend’s defensive circle. The Ladies have grown in confidence through the season, and as a result, there were some great examples of skilful play from forwards Sarah Pole, Jenny Phillips, Hannah Mills and Jade Perry. Sarah’s speed could not be matched by Bridgend’s defense, meaning she was able to make some excellent runs into the attacking quarter. Jenny Phillips playing on the right was able to make some beautiful crosses for the attack to run on to.

Bridgend however managed to resist Brecon’s advances on goal, with perhaps their strongest player at centre back.

The first goal came from Bridgend. The away team used a break from a defensive hit out to move the ball at pace through the Brecon midfield. With Bridgend’s attack moving quickly up the pitch with the ball, Brecon’s defensive circle suddenly seemed to fill with the attacking players. There was some scuffling in the circle before a pass to Bridgend’s centre forward on the edge of the circle created the space needed. Brecon saw the ball raised up into the air and hit with force into the goal. There was little that goalkeeper Megan Thomas could do to stop the ball going in. The score at half time was 1-0.

In the second half Brecon were not without their chances to even the scores, being awarded four short corners. However, the home team were missing a few key players from their set plays and the girls failed to capitalise.

Bridgend managed to score a second goal before the final whistle. This came from a well positioned forward, who managed to play a rebounded shot quickly back into the goal, making the final score 2-0.

Man of the match was awarded to Brecon goal keeper Megan Thomas. The girls will be travelling to Cardiff next week to play Whitchurch Saints, 1pm push back.