Bretforton Ladies 2,

Banbury 1

SOME tactical repositioning by coach Phil Talbot proved the key to Saturday's narrow win.

Banbury were the first to apply the pressure but Debbie Slatter helped start a series of incisive passing moves that produced some penetrating attacks

One such move starting deep in defence led to the first goal by Gilly Wright who hit a powerful shot into the net.

This was soon followed by some excellent teamwork that enabled Sophie Corbett to hit a first-time shot into the top of the net.

After controlling the first half, Bretforton came under a bit of pressure after the break.

A short corner was awarded to Banbury soon after the restart and the deficit was reduced.

Experienced defenders Bobbie Handley and Jane Wheeler blunted the Banbury attack and prevented any further score.

This was an encouraging result for Bretforton who are now preparing for the second half of their league programme.

Bretforton II 5, Bidford 1

A HAT-TRICK from Sara Bragg helped the second team to a comfortable Sunday success but they were indebted to some fine stops from goalkeeper Fiona Baldeli to preserve a handsome victory margin.

Fine play from Jude Edghill and Julie Stowe down the right flank allowed Bragg to open the scoring and a deflected shot son saw the scorer double her tally.

Sandra Boswell then converted a short corner to make it 3-0 a the interval and the margin was quickly increased after half-time when Bragg struck again.

Faye Marchant scored a deserved consolation for the visitors but Bretforton had the final say when Marion Icke scored with a penalty flick after some determined play from Gilly Wright.

Malvern is the destination on Saturday for a friendly against Pershore.

Shipston Ladies 1,

Evesham 0

A DOUBLE booking ended Saturday's friendly fixture prematurely with Shipston leading courtesy of a goal from Helen Patrick.

The Christmas break had taken its toll on the Shipston side but they were determined to start the second half of the season with a win.

They held possession from the first whistle with Debbie Foster staying strong throughout the game and providing some good through balls across and up the pitch.

The forwards were in the shooting circle many times but the Evesham defenders were a solid unit as they kept the ball away from the net.

The game's solitary goal arrived following a strong attack down the left flank and the Evesham defence was left standing as Helen Boswell crossed for Patrick to tap in.

The second half saw both team sin more energetic mood but Shipston kept their cool and kept a tight defence to thwart any chance of an Evesham equaliser.

Shipston are in action in St Nicholas Park, Warwick this weekend, pushback 12 noon, when their opponents are Sutton Coldfield II.