Minehead AFC Women secure 11th consecutive league win

Minehead AFC Women 's victory over Combe St Nicholas was their 11th league win in a row <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Minehead AFC Women 's victory over Combe St Nicholas was their 11th league win in a row (Image: Supplied)
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Minehead AFC Women secured their 11th consecutive league win against Combe St Nicholas.

The victory marks a positive continuation of their stellar campaign in 2026.

However, the match was far from an easy feat, as early efforts were repeatedly thwarted by Combe's resilient keeper.

The first breakthrough came when Emeral Haran skilfully evaded the defence to score, putting Minehead 1-0 ahead.

The first half saw solid defensive efforts from Kianna Corbett, Bonita Waddams, Darcy Walsh, and the returning Alana Ford-Hill, who left keeper Maddison Wightman with little to do.

But the game was still open, leaving both teams hopeful for more after the half-time whistle blew.

As the second half commenced, Combe, attacking down the slope, posed more of a threat.

Minehead's midfielders, including Lilly Baker, Courtney Wright and captain Erin Strong, had to work doubly hard to maintain the lead.

With tension mounting, Haran once again showcased her talent by scoring from a through ball by Wright, doubling Minehead's lead.

However, Combe's relentless spirit was rewarded when they capitalised on a rare error by Minehead to score their first.

With the score at 2-1, the match turned into a test of endurance for Minehead.

Players including Mabel Green, Haran, Jaz Ash and Evie Middleton fought hard to stave off Combe's long balls.

The balance of the match was finally tilted by a spectacular goal from Erin Strong, who unleashed a powerful shot after a slick combination with Middleton, boosting Minehead's lead to 3-1.

Haran came close to a hat-trick, but her late effort hit the post.

The final whistle not only confirmed Minehead's victory but also cemented their place in the top two.

After a lull of activity, with only three matches in the previous 17 weeks, the team were elated to be back on the pitch and adding another three points to their tally.

Minehead  now have their eyes firmly set on finishing strongly in the campaign, with exciting matches against Highburn and Pen Mill at The Rec still to be played.

The player of the match laurel was shared by Haran, Ford-Hill and Corbett.

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