Match report: Exeter City Women's 3 AFC Bournemouth 1

Exeter City Women continue to impress with a 3-1 win against AFC Bournemouth on a warm Sunday afternoon in Dorset.

The Grecians had a bright start with Ishbel Zuurmond, playing in a more advanced position, relentlessly pressing the Cherries’ defence.

Zuurmond earned a penalty early on, which Sarah Stacey confidently slotted into the bottom corner of the net, giving the Grecians an early advantage.

The home side struggled to counter City’s pace, and three minutes later, Zoe Cunningham added a second goal assisted by Amber Pollock.

A Kelci Bowers strike from 30 yards briefly threatened Abbi Bond’s goal, with the City stopper happy to see the ball drift over as the team’s headed into a drinks break.

With only seconds of the first half remaining, the Cherries pulled back a goal after midfielder Ali Hall smashed home from the edge of the penalty area.

After the interval, City regained their two-goal advantage when Zoe Watkins’ lofted effort from a distance sailed over the Bournemouth keeper.

Despite Bournemouth's efforts, City retained control, with Beth Ireland dictating the pace and Matilda Franchi applying pressure as a substitute.

Exeter’s final chance saw Jess Sandland set up Stacey, but the Cherries’ goalkeeper denied a fourth goal. The match provided a valuable test of stamina and technical skill as Exeter continues to gear up for the season ahead.

With Cardiff City Women visiting on Thursday, Exeter’s pre-season is nearing its end, and attention will soon turn to their season opener against MK Dons at St James Park on Sunday.

You can read the full match report here.