James Thomas began his reign as Gwalia United first-team Manager with a hard-fought and highly encouraging 1-1 draw against Exeter City Women in Taunton. Against one of the league’s most in-form sides, Gwalia delivered a performance full of energy, resilience, and quality, leaving Thomas and the traveling supporters optimistic for the challenges ahead. This was no ordinary point. Exeter have been one of its standout teams this season, boasting a well-drilled squad and an unbeaten home record. Yet, Gwalia not only matched them but, for large stretches of the game, arguably outplayed the hosts.
From the opening whistle, Gwalia set the tone with an aggressive high press. Elena Cole’s quick thinking in midfield won the visitors possession just outside Exeter’s penalty area in the third minute, hinting at the Welsh side’s game plan. Jessie Taylor, nearly capitalised on Ellie Lake’s long clearance moments later, but Exeter goalkeeper Abbi Bond was alert to the danger. Yet despite Gwalia’s bright start, it was Exeter who struck first, and in some style.
Mollie Taylor’s goal in the 11th minute was nothing short of spectacular. After a period of defensive solidity from Gwalia, Taylor pounced on a loose ball from 30 yards out and unleashed a thunderous half-volley that soared into the top left corner of the net. The strike was met with stunned applause from both sets of fans, a contender for goal of the season and a testament to Exeter’s individual quality. A phenomenal strike well worthy a goal.
Gwalia, however, were undeterred. Rather than letting the setback rattle them, they redoubled their efforts. Just minutes later, Kylie Nolan showed why she’s such a pivotal player for Thomas’ side. Her quick feet and smart movement created chaos in the Exeter box, and she claimed to be fouled as she knocked the ball past her defender. But to the dismay of Gwalia’s bench and their vocal supporters, the referee waved away penalty appeals. The visitors didn’t have to wait long to draw level. On 18 minutes, Nolan was involved again, holding off her marker and laying the ball off to Kiera O’Keefe, whose first-time shot struck Zoe Cunningham’s outstretched hand in the box. There was little debate about the decision, and captain Chloe Lloyd stepped up to take the resulting penalty.
With the home fans attempting to unnerve her and a scuffle breaking out behind her involving Nolan and Exeter’s defenders, Lloyd showed incredible composure. She slotted the ball beautifully into the top corner, silencing the home crowd and restoring parity for her side. The equaliser ignited an already lively contest. Tempers flared when Exeter’s Jaydee Seaman barged into Nolan, sparking further tension between the two sides. Despite the physical nature of the game, Gwalia refused to be intimidated. Instead, they grew into the match. Exeter, for their part, tried to reassert control, forcing Gwalia into a frantic defensive scramble from a dangerous corner in the 34th minute. However, it was Gwalia who looked the more composed side, breaking quickly and nearly punishing the Grecians’ lapses at the back.
Mollie Taylor, Exeter’s earlier goalscorer, briefly had to leave the pitch after a collision with teammate Zoe Cunningham, giving both teams a chance to regroup. Her return was met with relief by the home fans, but it was clear that Gwalia had the upper hand as the half progressed. The visitors could have taken the lead on multiple occasions before half-time. Ruby Scahill found herself in a prime position in the 41st minute, breaking free in the box and unleashing a shot from close range. However, Bond, Exeter’s ever-reliable goalkeeper, made a stunning save to deny her. Moments later, Jessie Taylor was also thwarted by Bond after a slick move carved open Exeter’s defence.
As the clock ticked towards full-time, neither side showed signs of backing down. Jaydee Seaman’s aggressive challenge resulted in a yellow card and a dangerous free kick for Gwalia. Cole nearly converted the opportunity, with her shot narrowly sailing over the crossbar. On the left side, Libby Piggott sparked into life, pouring cold water on Exeter’s attack and frustrating the home fans. With ten minutes remaining, both teams pushed for a winning goal. Exeter introduced Phoebe Baker, while Gwalia remained equally determined. Ruby Scahill, who had a commendable performance, was substituted for Maisie Miller after sustaining a strong challenge that epitomized the competitive nature of the game.
The most dramatic moment came in the 75th minute when Gwalia’s Kylie Nolan appeared certain to score. She rounded the goalkeeper and prepared to slot the ball into an empty net, only for Exeter’s defence to make an incredible recovery with an awkwardly bobbling ball. In a desperate clearance, the ball was booted off their own crossbar, bounced on the goal line, and was ultimately cleared to safety.
In a game filled with intensity, skill, and moments of sheer unpredictability, neither side could break the deadlock, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. For James Thomas, it was the perfect platform to build on. “I’m delighted with how we’ve performed today,” he said post-match. “We came here with a plan to match them and play our game, and I think we’ve done that. There’s still work to do, but this is a result to be proud of.”
Gwalia head home with a fantastically fought point.
