

A combined Folkestone Ops squad — blending players from the 4s, 5s and 6s — travelled to Cheam for a non‑league Ops Cup fixture. Despite a determined performance and some standout individual moments, Cheam’s strength and cohesion on their home pitch saw them take the win 3–1.
Cheam started brightly, pressing hard and earning their first goal midway through the half.
Folkestone responded superbly: a brilliant strike from Rachel Darling, followed up and finished clinically by Vic Stafford, levelled the score at 1–1.
Cheam regained momentum before the break, converting again to make it 2–1 at half time.
The Ops mixed side came out firing — tighter passing, stronger channels, and confident forward movement. Several promising phases of play kept Cheam under pressure.
In the final minute, Cheam won a short corner and executed it cleanly, sealing their third goal and closing the match 3–1.
Player of the Match
Dani Hopkin — exceptional work rate up front, intelligent movement, and an impressive debut at right half. She adapted seamlessly between roles and was a constant asset in transition.