Gwalia United clinched their second straight FA Women’s National League Division One South win with a nail-biting 1-0 victory over Bournemouth Sports, making it two from two to start the season. Molly Kehoe’s clutch second-half strike proved to be the decider in their first home league game, but man, did it get tense late!
Kehoe Breaks the Deadlock After a First-Half Scare
Our side kicked off full of confidence, and why wouldn’t they? That 6-0 thrashing of Ascot United on opening day was a statement! Bournemouth Sports, who finished 10th last season, actually came out swinging and created some better looks in an evenly-contested first half. Ana Machado, Liane Folkenstern, and Freya Jennings all had chances they couldn’t bury, which felt like a bullet dodged. But the second half? Totally different story. Gwalia stepped up. Esme Kilburn-Thompson nearly broke through, and Kehoe herself curled a long-range shot just wide before she finally broke the deadlock! It was a quick reaction from Kehoe, slotting home from close range after Bonnie Gready’s fierce strike got parried by Bournemouth keeper Kayleigh Prout. Pure hustle, that goal!
Late Game Drama: Eden’s Miss Saves the Day!
After Kehoe’s goal, Gwalia pushed for a second, with Kehoe and Kylie Nolan both getting close to extending the lead. But then, classic football drama, Bournemouth got a lifeline late on. Callie Jones was penalized for a foul on Emma Whall inside the box, giving them a penalty and a chance to snatch a point. My heart was in my throat! Rosie Eden stepped up, took the shot, and missed the target! Can you believe it? The relief was absolutely unreal. That miss ensured Cori Williams-Mills’ side held on for all three points and kept our perfect start alive.
Next up, it’s a League Cup clash for Cori Williams-Mills’ squad, heading to Cheltenham Town on Thursday, August 27 at 19:45 BST. Then, it’s back to league action on the road against Torquay next weekend. Let’s keep this momentum going!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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