BRIDPORT 2

CHRISTCHURCH 5

BRIDPORT were well-beaten in their final pre-season contest in a 5-2 defeat to Sydenhams Wessex Premier League outfit Christchurch.

New Bridport signing Steve Walker saw a second yellow late on due to dissent towards the referee.

Joel Hewitt got the game off to the perfect start for the hosts, rifling in from eight yards after just five minutes.

Christchurch were always a threat, but were initially quite blunt, as an open goal was missed from six yards early on.

However it would not be long before they found their touch, as two minutes later Christchurch equalised.

After 29 minutes, Walker received his first caution due to his language towards the referee and was sinbinned for 10 minutes.

With Walker nearing his return, Christchurch broke away and took the lead from a converted cross.

The half ended with the Bees 2-1 behind, but Church scored in the first minute of the second half to make it 3-1 in a dreadful start for the Bees.

After 64 minutes, it was four, with three defenders evaded before the visitors’ attacker slotted in.

Substitute Ryan Leader grabbed a goal back, after a smart move from the left wing, but Christchurch grabbed a final goal on the break in injury time, before Walker received a second yellow to end the match.

When contacted for comment by Echosport, Bridport boss Rich Robson and assistant Ryan Dovell were unavailable for comment.

Bridport: Wells-Burr, Coombs, Phillips, Gape (Jones 75), Walker, Baggs, Cornish, Weedon, Hewitt (Dovell 63), Thompson, Handyside (Leader 63) Sub not used: Kershaw