Positive new beginnings for TUFC Women

Torquay United Women opened their home league campaign with a dominant 7-0 victory over Frampton Rangers at Newton Abbot’s Recreational Ground.

Supported by enthusiastic youngsters from the TUFC Girls U14 squad, United opened the scoring with Tee Kaptein converting a delicious delivery from Tracey Cross, and Kaptein soon doubled the lead.

Lucy Solloway made it 3-0 after just 15 minutes but Frampton, too their credit, tightened up defensively to prevent any further first-half scoring.

After the break, however, it was a different story, as Solloway completed her brace and Cross made it 5-0 on the hour. Lexie Watts then joined the party and the fun was completed by a hat-trick strike from Solloway.

After suffering relegation last season, the Gulls are determined to mount a promotion challenge this time around, and they will be supported behind the scenes by the likes of chairman Steve Elswood, manager Lee Mann and welfare officer Stephen Hiscox, who explained his role with the team.

“I generally liaise with the senior team but always available to help at all levels,” he said. “I have to complete the courses set out by the FA and the main thing is communication with the girls to see what they need.

“Torquay United Women have a really young side, so we are nurturing players into the adult game. We also have senior players for the youngsters to work with and learn from.

“As a football fan, I’ve really enjoyed the pre-season, challenging but exciting. There is no reason we can’t be competing in this division against teams from across the South West.

“From a welfare role, I help with making sure the players are happy at home and also helping with the travelling requirements. Players aren’t getting paid, so we have to ensure they can be play for Torquay United without any financial impact on them.”