02/08/2026
⚽️Match Report | Hunters Ladies FC 3-7 Elm Fusion Ladies⚽️
Hunters Ladies faced another tough pre-season test as they welcomed Elm Fusion Ladies, a side that finished in the top three last season. Knowing the quality of the opposition, Hunters approached the game with determination and discipline, matching Elm’s intensity throughout the opening 20 minutes.
Elm eventually found the breakthrough before the first hydration break, but Hunters responded positively. A change in formation and fresh legs from the bench made an immediate impact. On her debut, Poppy announced herself in style, finding the equaliser just four minutes after coming on to level the scores at 1-1.
Elm reacted strongly and regained the lead, making it 2-1, but Hunters once again showed their resilience. For the second consecutive week, Vikkie Simpson and Chloë Rose combined to devastating effect, with Vikkie providing the assist for Chloë to calmly finish and bring the game back to 2-2.
At half-time, Hunters continued to use the match as valuable preparation for the upcoming season, making further changes to give several new signings important minutes on the pitch.
Elm’s quality and experience began to show during the second half. With strength and depth across the pitch, they gradually pulled away, extending their advantage to 6-2. Despite the scoreline, Hunters never let their heads drop. The squad’s mentality has become one of its biggest strengths, with every player committed to competing until the final whistle regardless of the score or the challenge in front of them.
That spirit was perfectly demonstrated by Dani Schofield, whose relentless work rate was rewarded with a well-taken goal to make it 6-3 and give Hunters another deserved moment to celebrate.
The final hydration break allowed for more tactical experimentation, with further changes in formation and player positions as the coaching staff continued to assess different options ahead of the new campaign. Elm remained true to their physical style of play, using their strength to good effect throughout the contest. As Hunters pushed forward late on to close the game down and press for another goal, Elm capitalised in the closing moments to add a seventh, bringing the final score to 7-3.
While the result didn’t fall Hunters’ way, the performance offered plenty of positives. Debut goals, encouraging displays from new signings, tactical flexibility, and the team’s unwavering commitment throughout the full 90 minutes all provided valuable building blocks as preparations continue for the season ahead.
