Our fabulous new Ladies 1st team under passionate Southgate man Drew Burkin had a tough start to the new season with a 5-0 away defeat to Cambridge City who finished 4th in the National League last year. At 21 the Southgate team has the lowest average age in the National League. In spite of a 5-0 loss the team fought from beginning to end and showed considerable promise . The only real difference in the teams was Helen Richardson Walsh who was a dominant figure for Cambridge , scoring 3 penalty corners and running the midfield when on the pitch. Without her on the field Southgate Ladies matched Cambridge on every part of the pitch. The team played with energy and commitment. Five players made their National League debuts and did themselves proud. This season is about development and there were many aspects of this young team that were highly encouraging . Well done to the juniors who stepped up; Charlotte Kelly, Lucy Leel, Zara Rose, Ella Sherring and Claudia Joarder. Also a big brava to Chloe Mcintosh who also made her National League debut.  A really tough second match against promotion favourites Sevenoaks this Saturday at Southgate.