Chichester Ladies 1 Argyle Ladies 1

ARGYLE Ladies began their new season with their longest journey to league newcomers Chichester City.

As on many an opening day, the teams took time to settle as they sized each other up.

The battle for control of the midfield was intriguing, and as a result the teams cancelled each other out and goalmouth action was limited.

It was the visitors who drew first blood just three minutes into the second half when Becca Rose's diagonal ball from the left found midfielder Maria Warman, who got to the bounce of the ball before the Chichester 'keeper and turned the ball into an empty net.

Argyle may well have extended their lead shortly after when Maria’s younger sister Natalie, also a debutant, shot over the bar from a good position. 

The home side's dubious equaliser came just eight minutes from time when goalkeeper Michaela Phillips was bundled over the line as she attempted to take the ball under her crossbar from a corner kick.

This was a battling performance from the Pilgrims and the point that was so nearly 3 was well deserved.

Manager Kev Rose said: "Chichester were a very tough side, they worked hard for one another and were well organised.

"We were happy that after four and a half hours of travelling we were able to compete with them, and for most of the match outplay our opponents.

"Our discipline and organisation throughout the 90 mins was fantastic.

"We deserved the point we took away with us, because of our work ethic off the ball."