The Bees were denied victory by a late Oxford United goal, in a training ground practice match at The Hive.

Both sides fielded teams with numerous trialist’s as Lee Burch looked on at potential players to bolster his squad ahead of the new season.

The visitors took the lead midway through the first half as a looping cross fell at the attacker’s feet to slot past Sarah Quantrill in the Bees goal.

However, the Bees fought back and were level just 10 minutes later as Trialist C neatly finished into the top corner following an excellent through ball from the midfield.

After the break, Burch’s side took the game to their Women’s National League visitors and took the lead as a lofted shot went over the Oxford keeper went just over the line.

The Bees kicked on and had further chances to wrap up the victory but couldn’t find the back of the net, they later would rue the missed chances.

With just moments left, United snatched a late leveler as an excellent strike found the top corner meaning both sides had to settle with finishing all square.

 

 

Bee’s manager Lee Burch said

“I got everything I wanted to out of the game, they are a good side who have already had some minutes in their legs, so they gave us a good challenge.”

“It was good to have a look at all of the players, some who are already with us and some who we haven’t seen yet, I was pleased with the performance”

“The players have come back fit and in good condition. They all know that if they want to make it at this level, then they have to be keeping themselves fit. They haven’t just gone away from last season and completely let go which is very important.”

“With having so many trialists on the pitch today, it is a case that they naturally want to work hard and impress me. But with the players who have already signed as well, it’s a new manager so they know all places are up for grabs”

“We’ve got more pre-season friendlies to come and in those games, I will be looking to see a good performance, as well as looking at the player’s fitness levels as we approach the new season.”

“Overall I am really happy with the girl’s performance today and we will look to kick on in training and work really hard”