The Gillingham Ladies played their first league match of the season at home to Bedford Town on Sunday. The conditions were perfect, the pitch in immaculate condition and the Ladies were buoyed by the opportunity to be representing Gillingham Football Club.

The Ladies started off well with some neat play and created the early chances. Kylie Overton caused problems with her pace but as the game progressed Bedford gradually got into their stride with Lesley-Ann Seaman dictating play in the midfield.

Gillingham Goalkeeper Alison Smith was called upon to make a fantastic double save, as she saved at the feet of an on-rushing Bedford striker and then quickly got up to save the second effort. However Bedford then capitalised on a clumsy challenge by central defender Zara Phillips, who firstly gave away a free kick on the halfway line, and then bundled over there player in the box for a penalty. Bedford converted the penalty with a well taken strike that gave Alison Smith no chance.

However this appeared to wake Gillingham up and they hit back instantly when Kylie Overton scored hitting the bottom corner. Five minutes later Les Kay struck a fantastic free kick from about 30 yards out and close to the touch line which sailed right across the Bedford keeper into the top corner, to give the Gills the advantage.

Gillingham should have added to the score as they went close several times, and Les Kay almost scored with a carbon copy free-kick. Unfortunately Bedford did get an equaliser before half time to make it 2-2.

The second half was a lot quieter, as both teams created chances but neither really made a real impact. As the game came to a close Bedford settled for the draw and opted to play just one up front. In the closing minutes Kylie Overton dashed clear of the defence from a splendid through ball from Kelly Seath but agonisingly saw her effort go wide of the post.

So the points were shared in a game that Gillingham felt they should have taken the 3 points. Next up for the Ladies is an away trip to Lewes.

Gillingham Squad

A.Smith, W.Judd, B.Lyons, Z.Phillips, N.Seath, G.Ridge (K.Bolden), L.Kay, L.Stevens (K.Seath), T.Reynolds, K.Overton, A.Broad (K.Goodall)

Subs not used:- T.Martin

Pictures suppplied by Mark Costen