NEWLY-FORMED Stamford Bridge Girls Under-9s have taken their first strides in competitive football.

Just two months after the squad was formed, the East Yorkshire youngsters took on Shiptonthorpe in three 15-minute friendlies, losing 3-0, 1-0 and 2-0.

In the first match, the more experienced Shiptonthorpe side were immediately into their stride and within two minutes had opened the scoring. They were denied a second by an excellent save from captain and goalkeeper Jessica Feehan, but the hosts doubled their lead on six minutes.

Solid play at the back from Lily Collins, who made some good interceptions and well-timed tackles, kept the home side at bay although a third goal went in towards the end.

Stamford Bridge produced their best performance in the second game, going on the offensive with some good wing play from Sophie Warbuton.

A great interception by defender Mary Buckle warded off danger at the other end and a superb move found player of the match Maddie Smales in the area, but her shot went agonisingly wide.

The visitors nearly took a deserved lead when Elisha Thompson was brought down, but her goal bound free-kick was deflected away, and a last-minute strike gave the home side victory.

Although confidence was growing in the third game, Bridge conceded a goal from a deflection in the seventh minute.

Shiptonthorpe were then thwarted by an excellent save from Kaylee Skelding before Stamford took command with some good work in midfield from Ameila Rigby.

The home team scored a second goal just before the end.