Three unfortunate goals sneaked in during the first half, forcing Chard to regroup and tighten up their line of defence. Chard demonstrated particular strength in seeing off a number of short corners but it was too little too late.

After a rousing team talk at half time by stand-in Captain Lou Wrightson, the confidence of the whole team grew and Chard were by far the better side. Maintaining possession there were several strong runs along the left and right wing that looked sure to end well, but Chard's efforts were scuppered by a lucky deflection for Bridgwater.

Nonetheless, the tired Chard side could do nothing more than prevent further goals from the opposition failing, once more, to capitalise on their chances in the D.

Next week the team travel away to Minehead for what is sure to be another challenging encounter.

Thanks go to match sponsor Elswood Mechanical Services and umpires Tina O'Driscoll and Alan Cheffey.

For more information about Chard Hockey Club, visit the website www.chardhockeyclub.co.uk.