BUDE’S ladies slipped to a third straight defeat against a physical Newquay Seconds side on Saturday.

One positive for the Seasiders was having a full squad of 16 players, which included the return of Jo Timmins in goal having missed the defeat at Penzance.

She had Naomi Hatcher, Elsa Edwards and Emily Smart in front of her in defence, and the hosts started well.

In midfield, Charlotte Prime made some excellent driving runs up the pitch, working alongside Mia Flynn on the opposite wing.

The centre pairing of EJ Biggadike and Caroline Hockridge worked hard to hold the play together, with Izzy Sobey linking up well and winning key battles.

Up front, Chloe Hall and Lulu Goaman fought hard to create scoring opportunities, forcing several short corners early on.

Despite the strong start, Newquay opened the scoring.

Just before half-time, a midfield substitution brought on Charlotte Kingdon and EV Varcoe, and Kingdon made an immediate impact – winning the ball and firing home a powerful reverse hit to make it 1-1 at the break.

The second half saw more rotation, with Eleanor Rush, debutant Niamh Turner and Maeve Motsch adding fresh energy to the midfield and attack.

Newquay soon regained the lead at 2-1, but Bude kept battling.

From open play, Flynn made another strong run down the wing, driving the ball into the D where a scramble followed.

Goaman was quick to react, sweeping the ball home on the post to make it 2-2. Unfortunately, despite their continued effort – and a green card for Hall late in the game – Newquay found the net twice more, sealing a 4-2 win.

Thanks were expressed to Arthur W. Bryant Funeral Service for sponsoring the match ball.

Bude visit Newquay Thirds on Saturday at Truro’s Penair School (3.15pm).