West Clubs Women's League
Brunel Division 1
Burnham-on-Sea 0, Clifton Robinsons 4ths 4

BURNHAM began their campaign in a new division – Brunel 1 – with an unlucky defeat.

It was unlucky due to the fact they had to play their home match in Clevedon at a later time, due to a defective pitch at King Alfred School, and unlucky in that they lost a player to injury early on in the match, conceding the first goal while reshuffling the pack.

They had started really well, with some good attacking hockey from Amy Edmundson and Kerry Harvey combining up front.

The Blues forced several short corners and looked comfortable in possession until the injury to Carly Bush, who had been having a good game at left-back.

During the confusion in reorganising the defence, Clifton nicked a goal despite goalkeeper Lucy Stacey making two good saves initially.

With only the one goal separating the teams at half-time, Burnham were still in it, but they seemed to fall away as the second half wore on.

Youngsters Macy Lucas and Livvy Hunt gave a good account of themselves, Lucas going close in the D with a well-timed strike as she worked hard down the left-hand side.

Caroline Hunt slotted into defence well, and both Nicki Glanville and Emma Ballard made some vital blocks and interceptions.

However, an unfortunate own goal and a contentious high strike put the visitors further ahead, and Burnham failed to create as many chances as fatigue set in.

Keeper Stacey kept them in the match with some vital saves, which earned her the player of the match award. but the Blues could not capitalise on this and conceded a fourth near the end.

Their next match is away to Weston-super-Mare this coming Saturday, at 3.30pm.

Training continues at KAS on Mondays (7-8.30pm).