Match Report:

Cray Valley Ladies produced a battling display to finish the season in the sunshine at Oxford Road, earning a deserved point in a 1-1 draw against Bexhill United. Lucy Robertson who announced a while ago that this would be her final season after a playing career spanning twenty years went close early on, her free kick producing a fine save by the Bexhill keeper Tucker tipping the shot over the bar.

Bexhill took the lead on the half hour somewhat against the run of play, awarded a penalty after the ball hit Valley defender Feagan on the arm, did it hit the knee first? no VAR to come to the rescue here, unlike the Newcastle v Arsenal game on the TV in the clubhouse after the game. Bexhill captain Compton scoring the penalty which De Sousa in the Valley goal very nearly saved. Valley hit back with a deserved equaliser on 38 minutes, Jackson finishing well, rounding the keeper. HT 1-1

Second half and with Bexhill kicking down the slope, Valley had to defend well at times. De Sousa, not a regular in goal, produced a wonderful double save around 70 minutes in, first tipping the shot onto the bar and then reacting quickly to block the rebound attempt. A couple of half chances at either end but no further goals followed and it finished all square.

End of an Era - The Future

It has been a tough season and one that has been challenging in many aspects. After promotion the season before it has with hindsight perhaps been a step too far. Availability in general has been a major issue, key players often missing through injury and too many games have seen under strength sides fielded or not at all on occasions. This doesn't sit well although at the time there was no easy fix. There have been a few highs of course and thank you to everyone for their efforts.

I personally announced my intention to step away completely at the end of the season back in March, see link https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/news/cray-valley-ladies-secretary-to-step-down-2768758.html With this season's manager & coach Dean Jarman and long term key team management member Adrian Hunt both departing for different reasons along with a number of established players calling time on their career either through choice or injury, it does seem like the end of an era.

The side has enjoyed much success and fun since its first season under the Cray Valley banner in 2015/16, however, regrettably after weighing up the options, a decision has been made to not continue with an adult Woman's side next season. Instead the club will look to divert its efforts in supporting women and girls football in the future by initialling encouraging the setting up of a girls junior side.

A couple of enquiries have already been made and if anyone else is interested in assisting with setting up and promoting girls football at the club then please contact us.