Relegation fears deepen for Torquay United Women

Torquay United Women are staring at relegation from Division One South West of the FA Women’s National League after a tough 4-0 defeat at home to Portishead Town.

The Gulls badly needed a win to move level on terms with Southampton Women, who occupy the final position of safety. United now must win their final game at home to fourth-placed Swindon Town on May 5 and hope Southampton lose to Maidenhead.

Despite a tough campaign on the pitch, United Women chairman Steve Elswood remains optimistic for the future, as he told the club website: “Together, the fans, players and staff have made some amazing memories in getting promotion to tier 4 and National League football, and we will be giving it all we’ve got to try and make that continue.

“No matter what blows come at us the squad we have is full of heart and belief in each other. It’s certainly a smaller, declined squad than we started with, but I wouldn’t change them and know they’ll give their all for the badge.

“We feel so supported by everyone at the Club, by all the staff at Plainmoor, in what has been a challenging first season for us all, and we look forward to our partnership continuing.”

In the Devon Women’s Football League, Stoke Gabriel & Torbay Police lost 3-2 at Budleigh Salterton on Saturday, having beaten Fremington 4-1 in midweek. Abigail Gunning (2), Ella-Mae Evans-Pitts and Zara Studley scored against Fremington and Ella-Mae was on target again against Budleigh, along with Rachel Fleming, but it was not enough.

Goals from Cassie Lee, Steph Warren and Natasha Kiff gave Plainmoor Ladies a hard-fought 3-1 away win over Lakeside Athletic. Paignton Villa went down 4-0 at home to Elm United.