AN EARLY encounter with a strong Wick side was not something Lydney Seconds would have chosen as they rebuild after losing key players in the close season.

Lydney were runners-up last year and won their opening game in Berkeley Division One of the West Clubs Women's League last week against Thornbury.

Captain Karen Alexander said: "We've lost a few experienced players – one has gone travelling, two have started teacher training and Sarah Nash broke her hand in a friendly.

"We've got a number of younger players coming through but it is a case of trying to knit together the young players and our more experienced players.

"We are still optimistic for the rest of the season but we have got to get the consistency going."

"Wick are a very strong side and we knew it would be tough against them. We have played them a few times before and they are a very good side."

The women's first team drew 1-1 away to Bristol University while the thirds drew 4-4 at Yate.