Nailsea Seconds edged out local rivals Clevedon with a 1-0 win in their opening West Women's Brunel Division Two game of the season last Saturday.

Clevedon came out hard and fast, making an early attempt on the Nailsea goal and bringing keeper Laura Wains-Pople into the game early to make a fine save.

Nailsea responded with their counter attack forcing a desperate defensive clearance. Skilful stick work by Ellie Richardson and determined tackling by sister Paige Richardson kept Nailsea in the attack.

Esme Harris and Millie Adams, playing in their first league games, along with Alice Bates, slotted in well growing in confidence as play went on. All worked hard looking to make a tackle or pass.

Nailsea saw a strong strike by Rachel Elliot deflected around the upright by Clevedon's shot-stopper. Both sides had chances but Nailsea went ahead when Paige Richardson converted a goalmouth scramble.

Nailsea adapted well in the second half, using the width and positivity in the press. As expected, both sides started to tire as much from the unusually warm conditions as it being the first game of the season.

Both sides kept up the pressure but the defences remained strong. Wains-Pople focussed in keeping a clean sheet, aided by solid work from Kim Thomas, Ruby Cairns and Ella Brierley.