Ilminster shine in the sun

On a rare sunny day that offered some spring warmth on a damp and sticky pitch Ilminster ladies were finally able to get another game underway after lengthy breaks due to such terrible weather conditions recently.

With a strong looking squad, and players eager to play it was not surprising to see a fast start out of the blocks for the home team, as 3 minutes in, a much missed Leila Salter, available this week, made an energetic run down the left wing and was able to swing a good cross into the box.

The goalie has tried to collect the ball but spills it and Shakira Howard who has had a superb start since signing for the club, was on hand to tap it in. (1-0)

Buoyed by that good start another swift attack saw Shakira turn provider this time, playing a good ball through for Tia Shoemark who had timed her run to perfection and made no mistake in dispatching the ball. (2-0)

Ilminster are enjoying most of the possession and mounting waves of attacks, as Porlock rely on hitting us on the counter attack.

Corners are causing the away team some problems as they have trouble clearing their lines. Hannah Billing swings in a beautiful cross near to the penalty spot where a defender swings out a leg to clear it, but it’s bounced horribly off her leg and gone back towards goal as a despairing goalie can only watch it sail in. (3-0)

Some defensive action before the half ends as Lorraine is called into action a few times to rush out and clear a few balls & she is competently dealing with the threats well, despite having long periods of time as a spectator, as the 8 players in front of her work hard to keep the ball away.

Another attempt wide from the home team and it’s a goal kick. Ilminster maintain pressure high up the pitch. Hannah Billing on hand to collect the ball straight from the goal kick and drives forward into the oppositions penalty area evading a couple of challenges and smashes the ball into the roof of the net, finishing off the first half strongly. (4-0)

Second half kicks off and the away team have made a few tactical
changes to assert more pressure on Ilminster. Lorraine called into action once again but smothers everything and collects well with safe hands some high balls.

A much more even battle now, but 20 minutes into the second half Ilminster are able to add to their tally as Shakira slots home a good finish. (4-0)

That’s 5 goals in 4 games now for the striker.

A lengthy stoppage in the game as one if Porlocks players goes down injured, it looks quite bad, as physios from both teams attend the player. The player is stretchered off and Porlock must continue with a man down.

Ilminster press their man advantage and are able to add a further two goals to their tally.

Both goals scored by Leila Salter who has worked very hard today starting at left back and finishing in a left midfield role. She was deserving to get on the scoresheet.

The final goal a lovely one two with Tia Shoemark to beat the defenders and a superb lobbed finish from the young & ever improving Leila. (7-0)

A good result and much needed boost to Ilminsters goal difference.

Well done ladies.

A nice overall team performance from everyone, as they all played a part in this result.

Man of the Match: Leila Salter

Worked very hard as has been said, a strong defensive performance at left back, intelligently getting forward when she could to support attacks. And deservedly bagging two good goals herself.

Stand out performances from Hannah Billing and Tia Shoemark who dominated the midfield area.