Torquay United Women defeat wind, rain and Sherborne Ladies

The weather was horrific, Plainmoor battered by wind and rain, but Torquay United Women withstood all of that to defeat Sherborne Ladies in a dramatic opening home league fixture.

Despite the horrendous conditions, United made a fast start, grabbing the lead on seven minutes, when a deep cross from Roxy Thomas was half-cleared to Lily Hilton, who forced home the close-range rebound.

The Gulls continued to look the more threatening in a disjointed first half but were then punished for their profligacy, Sienna Trusson using the wind as her friend to loop a long-range free-kick into the roof of the net.

United came out fast after the break and created numerous chances before again being caught on the counter, as Sherborne won a soft penalty, converted by Chloe Snook.

The sense of injustice galvanised the Gulls and new manager Ryan Perks was clearly thrilled with the character of his players, as they drew level with Hilton heading home at the far post.

There was one final twist and it fell to the Gulls four minutes from time. A corner prompted mayhem in the Sherborne defence and debutant Georgie Knott kept the coolest head in a sodden Plainmoor, cleverly backheeling the winner to seal three soggy points.