WELLINGTON Wildcats Ladies returned to their ruthless best with an emphatic 8–1 victory over Bishops Lydeard Reserves in the first division of the Somerset Women’s Football League on Sunday, showcasing a blend of fluid passing, sharp movement, and clinical finishing on the all-weather Court Fields 3G pitch.

The match got off to an electrifying start when Leah Morrell struck the upright in the opening minute, setting the tone for Wildcats’ dominance. The first goal followed shortly after, with Robyn Stockman powering home a header after a fantastic passing move involving Grace Winter, Ebony Sellick, player of the match Christina Seaborne with the final inch perfect cross coming from the left foot of Morrell.

Keeley Coates then doubled the lead shortly after the first half drinks break, firing a precise shot from the edge of the box. Deadball specialist Emily Ayers extended the advantage with a perfectly struck free kick before halftime, leaving Wildcats with a commanding 3–0 lead.

Midway through the second half, Grayson Kennard added a fourth with a deflected effort, and followed this up moments later with a stunning goal from wide out that is a strong contender for goal of the season. Wildcats lost Stockman to injury midway through the first half, but the team’s energy and cohesion remained strong.

Georgia Purdy finished off a fine team goal after linking well with Seaborne and Charlotte Ayers, while Keeley Coates added her second goal, weaving through defenders with quick feet to slot home. Top scorer Ebony Sellick calmly sealed the victory, finishing after a clever assist from Coates.

Bishops Lydeard managed a consolation goal following a rare defensive lapse by Wildcats, but keeper Bianca Hamlyn was rarely tested. Hamlyn confidently cleared danger on a couple of occasions, while Lydeard’s keeper also made several fine saves to keep the score respectable.

Wildcats’ midfield rotation worked effectively throughout the match, with Imogen Edmondston-Low and Kennard combining well on the right and Winter linking with Sellick on the left. The passing and movement from Wildcats, particularly in midfield and wide channels, showcased the team’s sharpness and tactical awareness. Morrell was unfortunate not to score herself with her early effort and other close attempts.

This commanding performance underlined Wildcats Ladies’ strength and determination in the Somerset County Women’s League as they prepare for their final challenge of the season, aiming to finish strongly and build momentum for next season.

Wildcats’ Player of the Day, sponsored by Mundy Veneer Ltd, was Christina Seaborne

Wildcats: Bianca Hamlyn, Grayson Kennard, Emily Ayers, Tenika Goss, Grace Winter, Georgia Purdy, Charlotte Ayers, Robyn Stockman, Christina Seaborne, Ebony Sellick, Leah Morrell. Subs (all used): Keeley Coates, Imogen Edmonston-Low.

This win enabled Wildcats to stay sixth in the table with one more match to play - away to Banwell Ladies on Sunday, May 25 (2p.m.).

Banwell are lying fifth in the table, one point ahead of Wildcats who will move above their rivals if they win on Sunday. It is the last game for both teams.

Pen Mll Ladies are top at the moment, having completed their fixtures, but they are only two points ahead of second-placed Nailsea United Women who will become champions if they win their final fixture away to third-placed Wells City Ladies - also this coming Sunday.

The other game being played on Sunday is between Paulton Rovers Reserves and Portishead Ladies Reserves.