History was made last week as Bridgwater & Taunton College’s Women’s football team kicked off their first ever game in the England Colleges’ Football Association Category 1 League – the highest level of college football in the country.

The team runs in partnership with Yeovil Town Ladies FC and gives players access to over 16 hours of training per week and a comprehensive games programme which sees them compete against other college teams linked with women's super league clubs; Solihull College BCLFC Academy (Birmingham City), John Madejski Academy (Reading), Loughborough College, SGS College (Bristol City), and STFC Commonwealth Women.

Bridgwater & Taunton College/YTLFC (Team BTC) opened the season with a home fixture against John Madejski Academy (Reading). The home side opened the scoring early in the first half with a high pressing move between Megan Robinson and Leonie Hobbs winning the ball in the attacking half which then saw Hobbs neatly stroke the ball past the outstretched goalkeeper.

As the half progressed, Reading began to dominate possession and were rewarded with a goal when Team BTC didn't press the ball 20 yards out allowing the player time and space to strike the ball over the goalkeeper.

1-1 going in at half time and Team BTC conceded a second goal early in the second half when Reading were given to much time to progress into the final third. With limited pressure on the ball from Team BTC, Reading doubled their lead.

With the step-up to Category 1 football, the coaching team were pleased with the work rate and attitude of the players, who showed determination and desire throughout the game.

Any current year 11 students who are looking to start college next year and are interested finding out more about this elite sports programme can contact gallowaym@bridgwater.ac.uk for more information.