MINEHEAD Ladies travelled to Exeter with a team of the bare 11 players for a hockey match against Exeter 4ths and came away with a splendid 1-1 draw.

Having drawn to Exeter at home before Christmas, the Minehead knew this was going to be a tight game with Exeter only one place above Minehead in the league tale.

The game started fairly evenly, with both teams making meaningful attacks into opposition territory. Exeter piled on the pressure but a solid Minehead defence of Bailey, Koppa and Hirons swept any loose balls back into the midfield to relaunch more Minehead attacks.

Some 20 minutes into the first half saw Minehead rewarded with some possession and a quick 1:2 between Cape and Tisshaw found Sparks on the back post who swept the ball in to give Minehead a 1-0 lead going into half-time.

The second half started with a buoyant Minehead and an Exeter side hungry for a goal. As the game progressed both sides began to tire and the game became stretched.

Minehead earned a few corners but were unable to capitalise. Exeter took a 16 quickly, resulting in a goal at the other end after a 1-on-1 with Minehead’s keeper Weetch.

Buller, Chilcott and Burns continued to work tirelessly in the midfield and the final whistle could not come soon enough for the visitors. Minehead were delighted to finish the game with a draw with every player playing their part. The White Horse Inn Player of the Match went to Gemma Chilcott.

Next game up for Minehead Ladies this weekend (8/2/25) is a home game against North Devon 1 who are top of the table and it should be a good match. All support is welcome and greatly appreciated. 10:30am at West Somerset Sports Centre.