MATCH POSTPONED DUE TO WATERLOGGED PITCH

FGR return to action on Sunday 09 January as they kick off 2022 with a trip down the M5 to Somerset as they visit Bishops Lydeard. The final round of fixtures in 2021 was postponed, meaning the South West Regional Women’s Premier returns for the first time since 12 December.

Last Time Out For FGR

With several regular starters missing, particularly at the attacking end of the pitch, Chris Hicks made several changes as FGR overcame Middlezoy Ladies First team 4-1 in their home fixture in the 5th tier of Women’s Football.

Charlie Rowlands scored a hat-trick, with captain Hattie Jones also registering her 9th league goal in 8 league games from midfield. Middlezoy’s Chloe Snook who has been in rich scoring form and sits third in the goal scoring table this season scored Middlezoy’s only goal of the game as the FGR defence, which included a returning Sam Morris, held firm.

A strong team performance from FGR impressed an enthusiastic crowd which continues to grow. But there were also some strong individual performances, with Zoe Boyd who has mainly been used as a full back, pushed further forward. The FGR player who is known for her ball carrying ability asked lots of questions of the Middlezoy defence. Holly Hughes who recently re-joined FGR for a second spell also continued her impressive form from left back with. At right back Rosie Dimmery continued to demonstrate why she has a reputation for her consistent performances.

Our Opponents – Bishops Lydeard

Bishops Lydeard are managed by Julie Bowker who has been in the hot seat since Bishops Lydeard launched a women’s team in 2001. Bishops Lydeard now boast 3 women’s sides and are known for their inclusivity and welcoming players across a range of abilities. Bishops Lydeard achieved FA Community Charter Status in 2002 and in 2009 redeveloped their facilities which were opened by the then England U21 manager Stuart Pearce.

Bishops Lydeard play in red and black stripes with a purple away strip and currently sit 7th in the league table – one place and 3 points behind FGR. Their main threats in front of goal will be from their top scorer Holly Miller and Caitlin Berry, who both scored in their last fixture.

Bishops Lydeard have turned out some impressive performances and results over their last 6 games; winning 3 and drawing 1 to take 10 points from a possible 18. Even in defeat they managed to impress as they restricted top of the table Sherborne Town to just 1 goal in a narrow 1-0 away loss. Bishops Lydeard most recently defeated Bideford AFC 6-2 at home, meaning they will be full of confidence going into this game.

Bishops Lydeard

Head to Head

 FGR

Julie Bowker

Manager

 Chris Hicks

WDLLWW

League Form (Most Recent First)

 WLWWLW

(vs Bideford) 6-2

Biggest Win This Season

 6-0 (vs MAP)

Miller (5)

Top Scorer (League)

 Jones (9)

Berry, Golding, Meakins, Miller (9)

Most Appearances (League)

 Dimmery, Hately (9)

Did you know? Both sides had players score hat-tricks in their most recent fixtures with Charlie Rowlands (FGR) and Holly Miller (Bishops Lydeard) both netting three times.

Looking Further Ahead

FGR return to Chalford Sports and Social on 16 January when they host Royal Wootton Bassett Town Ladies. The two sides recently met, with FGR coming out on top in a 5-3 win. Kick off is scheduled for 2pm and there is a covered area to watch the game and facilities, including toilets and refreshments, are available in the club house.