New footballing opportunities for female players

Women aged over 55/60 headed to the home of Bideford Blues FC to take part in the first ever Devon County over 55s training session on the weekend.

The event, hosted by Braunton FC, brought together players from across the County to play with women of a similar age.

Organiser Mel Benson said: “This sport has grown so much in Devon over the past few years. There are a number of teams who regularly play club football. This can involve players aged 30 years-old and above.

“We have been told many times that there is demand for specific over 55s events and, as there is no Devon County team for over 55/60s, we thought we’d make it happen. It was amazing seeing women of all abilities flourish on the pitch and enjoying their football. We have enough players interested to potentially look at three squads of varying abilities. This will enable us to provide football for all”

Mel now plans to hold quarterly training sessions with matches being planned with teams from Somerset, Wales and The Midlands. Anyone interested should contact Mel Benson on 07764 767955.

In the Devon Women's Football League Teignmouth Ladies put a dent in Bradworthy Women's aspirations of silverware as they held them to a goal less draw and a share of the points.

West Exe Park Rangers travelled to play Stoke Gabriel & Torbay Police and returned home three points better off, following a 3 - 2 win, despite a goal in each half for the home side from Ella-Mae Evans-Pitts and Sam Tyler.

Seaton Town retained their position at the top of the North/East Division after a 4 - 0 home win over Hemyock Women.

Waiting in second place, with games in hand are Appledore Women, who eased to a 13 - 0 result over visiting Halwill Ladies, who valiantly travelled with only nine players. Taking advantage were Beth Ellis and Ruby Clark with four goals each, Nicole Lamey with two and Kelly Darnley and Laylah Windsor with one each.

Braunton Wanderers are in fourth place following a comprehensive home win against the students from the University of Exeter. Alice Rivans led the way with four goals, Ellice Joyce notched a hat-trick, Ruby Horn scored twice, with one from Anya Burley.