Stockton's stunner is not enough as Magpies are beaten by Bridgwater

Izzy Stockton. Photo: Darren Woolley

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Izzy Stockton scored a stunning goal from just outside the area in a lively home game with Bridgwater United on Sunday, but the Magpies eventually fell to a 3-1 defeat in a game that was played as Ascot United’s Racecourse Ground.

Looking to build on the form they’ve been showing this season under new manager Dave Kitson, the Magpies began brightly, pressing their opponents high and looking to move the ball quickly through midfield.

They had some early joy doing this and came close in the sixth minute when a corner from Katie Ackerman led to Simone O’Brien firing wide. It set the tone for an energetic opening spell.

But Bridgwater are above the Magpies in the Division 1 South West table this season and they responded well, taking the sting from the game and dampening Maidenhead’s early enthusiasm. Charley Evans was commanding at the back, winning several crucial headers; Molly McKeever and Megan Harper made key clearances under pressure. Lyndsey Preston tested Johnson in the Bridgwater goal with a well-placed effort in the ninth minute as Maidenhead continued to play well.

Bridgwater also had their moments though; with Magpies’ keeper Rosie Wilmott-Joyce called into action on several occasions. The visitors took the lead on the half-hour mark. capitalising on a loose spell of play from their hosts with Zoe Watkins scoring.

A second goal followed 10 minutes later and came after another spell of sustained pressure, Meg Jarvis giving the visitors’ breathing space and undoing all the Magpies early good work.

Maidenhead responded well in the second half and played with renewed belief and intensity.

Alex Dover replaced Katie Ackerman in midfield and added some fresh energy.

Harper’s header from a Chloe Webb cross was well saved, before the visitors extended their lead with another finish from Jarvis.

The scoreline was harsh on the Magpies, but they did finally get on the scoresheet in the 54th minute when Stockton fired home into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

Late chances fell to Sparrow and Molly McKeever, but Bridgwater held on for victory.

The Magpies head from this into another tough home game against promotion favourites Swindon Town on Sunday, February 1.

Due to York Road having been waterlogged this week, the tie with Swindon will be played at Burnham FC, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham, SL1 8JG with a 2pm kick off.

Maidenhead United Gold Members can attend the fixture for FREE, otherwise it will be £5 for adults and £2 for concessions at the gate on the day.