Women play out draw with Chichester

AFC Bournemouth Women played out a 2-2 draw with National League side Chichester at Ringwood Town yesterday.

Goals from Hannah Bennett and Rosie Eden saw the Cherries twice take the lead, before the visitors found a way back into the game.

Playing their first home friendly of pre-season, Steve Cuss’ side grew into the game against strong opposition, who play their football two leagues higher.

Bournemouth’s hard work soon paid off as Bennett struck on the half hour mark, pouncing from close range on Emma Davis’ rebound.

Going into the break a goal to the good, the Cherries came out for the second half raring to go but found themselves pegged back within the opening ten minutes, Chichester netting from a corner to level things up.

Terri Harvey then had an excellent chance to put her side ahead once again, latching on to Maisy Smith’s square ball, only to find her effort trickle wide of the post.

The Cherries continued to be persistent, with Chichester’s backline holding strong, but a breakthrough was imminent.

A deep corner swung in from the left was met my Eden at the back-post, whose emphatic header found the back of the net, leaving Chichester ‘keeper Sadie Blakley without a chance.

As the clocked ticked away, the visitors looked for a leveller and it came with just moments to go.

Winning the ball in midfield, Chichester played it through down the right, with their winger through one-on-one with Cherries shot-stopper Kate Guthrie.

A low finish was enough for the equaliser, with the referee signalling the end of the game just seconds later.

Read Cuss’ full reaction here.