This is an archive website preserved by the Dons Trust. It has been wrapped for modern browsers and is free of trackers and legacy scripts. The original content is unchanged as much as possible. Some links and features may no longer work.
Wednesday 24 September 2003 FA Nationwide Women's Premier League, Southern Division
Brighton & Hove Albion Ladies
1
-
1
AFC Wimbledon
Match report
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION LADIES 1 AFC WIMBLEDON LADIES 1
Both teams hit this game on the run and didn't stop until the final whistle! It looked for the first ten minutes as if AFC had the upper hand forcing Brighton, who where in the National Premier League last season, into constant mistakes.
Brighton missed a clear opportunity Dons responded with a shot just over the bar, but 20 minutes in Brighton proved their worth with a bobbling shot from Emily Arnold that found it's way into the back of the Dons net, leaving goalie Tracey Perry somewhat bemused at the Three Bridges pitch conditions!
The first half ended with dons on the defensive, some silly errors giving Brighton chances, but some good defending, aided by a couple of close range saves from Perry, kept the deficit to one at the break.
The second half was played as quickly as the first! AFC's midfield started to take control with Maria Bertelli and Laura Smith showing bravery and tenacity. Vicky Elcome and Rachel Axon controlled the defence and made it hard work for the seaside girls. Beth Sims took the ball at speed down the right wing and fired a perfect lob into the Brighton penalty area which was met by Keisha Ramos with a powerful header to level the scores just 7 minutes into the half!
Despite numerous efforts, AFC were unable to finish the game off. Graham Newnham changed team tactics with 15 minutes to go giving the Dons greater firepower but it remained level. A fair result for both sides and a much better performance from the Dons despite some very strange refereeing decisions!
