The first game of the 2026/27 season saw Folkestone Women's Optimist 1st XI return to the Southeast Premier League - and what better way to start than with a hard-fought 2–1 victory away at Eastbourne!

With an early start on the road, it was clear from the first whistle that the team were absolutely raring to get the season underway. The opening quarter was played with plenty of intensity as we worked hard to build our link play and settle into the game.

Some tactical changes going into the second quarter helped unlock the game, allowing us to play some fantastic, free-flowing hockey. Hannah Harvey provided a strong outlet from the back, finding Emma Coley who picked out a square ball across the top of the D to Becky Wyatt, who made no mistake, firing an absolute bullet into the bottom corner to give Folkestone the lead!

The goal gave us confidence to build on our attacking play, but Eastbourne hit back on the counter, with a deflection in front of goal finding its way into the net to bring the score level at 1-1 at half time.

The team remained full of belief and knew we were very much still in the game.

The third quarter opened up into an end-to-end battle, with penalty corners flying at both ends. In attack, Steph had a cracking right-slip opportunity that was narrowly denied, while at the other end our defensive unit of Becca, Jo, Steph, Lily and Hannah stood strong against relentless Eastbourne pressure.

Just before the end of the third quarter, some brilliant quick-thinking play from Steph opened up an opportunity in the D for Becca Shaw to follow up on a rebound and made no mistake hammering home what would become the winning goal.

Eastbourne immediately retaliated, winning a batch of short corners right on the third-quarter whistle. But Becca Smith was equal to the challenge, pulling off a low-right save to keep us ahead.

The defensive unit rose to every challenge, staying calm and composed under pressure. With crucial tackles, disciplined defending and numerous short corners to withstand, they worked tirelessly together as a solid unit to keep Eastbourne at bay.

Heading into the final quarter, we knew we had a result within reach. The midfield of Becky, Allegra, Ash Taylor and Emma Coley dominated the middle, linking brilliantly and feeding our hard-working forwards of Meg, Becca Shaw, Isla and Emily Clapham.

With everyone putting in a huge shift, the team showed real composure and professionalism in the final quarter, managing the game brilliantly and seeing out the result. A special mention to Lily for her player of the match performance.

A brilliant way to kick off the new season and a well-earned three points on the road. Plenty of hard work, plenty of fight and plenty to build on - but most importantly, we’re back where we belong! ??