PORLOCK Ladies played away to Combe St Nicholas in the third round of the Somerset Women’s Football League’s KO Cup - and put up a spirited fight before going down 1-0.

After a full two months and a few extra bars of chocolate consumed over Christmas, Porlock were expecting to be puffing and wheezing more than usual, especially on Combe’s sloping pitch.

Attacking uphill in the first half, Porlock actually posed more of a threat, particularly with Chloe in her swanky new boots making repeated runs up the right wing. Porlock all know how she loves sprinting and so Jess, Aimee and Liz in midfield kept popping great balls through for her to run on to.

Julie also provided a threat down the left wing. Despite some great balls into the box it was the resilient Combe defence, and in particular their goalie, who prevented Porlock from opening their account.

At the other end Porlock’s r own goalie Hannah made several crucial blocks to keep the score goalless at halftime.

In the second half Porlock continued to have the majority of possession, with Kayleigh’s pace on the right wing repeatedly stretching Combe’s defence. Porlock’s subs Jaegar and Sarah also played their part in the team effort.

However it just seemed like one of those days when Porlock could not get a clear strike at goal.

Then, against the run of play, Combe won a corner and managed to score from close range. This was unfortunate because Porlock’s solid defence of Rhi, Kirsty, Maisie and Chris had worked so well together to prevent the home side from scoring.

Porlock kept pushing forward for an equaliser but it was not to be, with a well contested match finishing 1-0.

Porlock wish Combe well in the next round. Porlock’s Player of the match went to Chloe White.

CS