Exeter City kicked-off their campaign with an SSE Women’s FA Cup second round qualifying match away at Buckland Athletic.
It turned out to be a difficult day for the ladies, who suffered a heavy defeat losing 9-2.
The opening exchanges looked promising with both teams going close. However, it was Buckland Athletic, promoted as Western Division Champions last season, who eventually broke the deadlock and raced into a 3-0 half-time lead.
The opening of the second half started much like the first, with both teams went close before Buckland got their fourth.
City got back into the match when great work from Kate Finch, took her in on goal and she was able to put a shot past the home goalkeeper to score City first and her first of the campaign. City unfortunately couldn't capitalise, as superior fitness and good play from Buckland produced more goals.
There was, however, more celebrations for City, as a superb free-kick from Danni Skinner at the death made the score 9-2. Laura Gough and Kirsty Caunter both scored hat-tricks for Buckland, with Hayley Chamberlain, Abigail Meyer and Emily Hannaford also netting
Reflecting on the game, joint management Clive Watts and Abbie Britton, agreed the girls had come up against a good, organised unit of Buckland. Both managers were proud of the City girls, as there were plenty of positives to take despite the scoreline. The City ladies will dust ourselves down and go again on Thursday night at training.