Welcome to Tier 4 Marine Academy Plymouth Ladies

Photography by Alex McCormick

Last season saw Marine Academy Plymouth Ladies finish 2nd place in the Regen Arable South West Regional Women’s football league. After missing out on promotion to Bristol Rovers Women, they have made up for it this season by claiming the title finishing on 49 points. Read on to find all about their winning season which has propelled them straight into the National League ahead of the 25/26 campaign.

League form

Their season has been one that has been defined by a high level of consistency in the league which has seen them only lose 1 league game across 20 fixtures. Their home form has been particularly impressive with the side boasting an unbeaten home record having scored 42 goals and only conceded 7 goals across the 10 games. They have also displayed impressive goal scoring prowess with a total of 75 league goals scored throughout the season.

This campaign has seen Marine Academy Plymouth record some huge score lines including a thundering 8-0 home victory against Poole Town Ladies as well as a 7-0 victory on the road against Bishops Lydeard Ladies. As well as that, they have shown the ability to grind out tough results as shown by their close 1-0 victory against 2nd placed Torquay United Women where Elizabeth Overton’s goal was the difference.

Standout Players

Much of their league success can be attributed to them having the best defensive record in the league and the defensive skills of Lily Hamp are a big reason behind their stellar defensive performances. Her consistent performances not only were a massive boost to her side but also saw her recognised with the award of manager’s best player. This was an award that Hamp is familiar with, having picked up the same award the previous season. As her side makes the step up into the national league, her aggression and tenacity will be key to staying up.

As well as that, another player to watch out for is Carmen Morison whose excellent forward thinking play has seen her bag an impressive tally of 15 goals across 23 appearances this season. Her goals will undoubtedly be crucial in ensuring that her side can retain National League status next season.

Spaniard Clara Martin has also impressed this season with her standout performances earning her both players and coaches player of the season. Having only signed for the club this year, she has had an excellent debut season and is ready to tear up the national league.

Cup Run

Not only have they secured promotion and the league title, the Blue army have also completed the double having won the Devon FA County Cup. Their route to the final saw them take apart league rivals Tourquay United Women in an excellent 4-1 victory and cruise into the final with a comfortable 6-1 win in the semis. A professional performance in the final, saw them demolish their opponents Plympton Ladies FC 11-0 in a fixture which showcased their talent as a team.

They also reached the Second Round Proper of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup after a strong 3-1 victory against Gloucester City Women and a commanding 4-0 victory against Bursledon Ladies FC saw them rewarded with a Second Round Clash. They were pitted against Tier 4 side and former promotion rivals Bristol Rovers Women and unfortunately fell to a 4-0 defeat.

Reliance on youth

One thing that has been excellent to see is how the club has been giving a chance to some talented young players coming through the ranks. One such player is Kayleigh Turner, who at just 16 years old, has capped off her first season in women’s football by picking up the young player of the season award. Making 22 appearances and starting every single one of them shows how much of an impact she has had on this side.

Another young player who has shined this season is former Plymouth Argyle Ladies player Kelsey Blight. Scoring an incredible 11 goals across 17 appearances this year has cemented her place as a player to watch. The hardworking and skillful midfielder was promoted to Argyle’s National League squad at just 16. She left Argyle at the start of this season and now will doubtless be looking forward to shining at National League level yet again.

Club as a whole

As the club moves into the Division One South West ahead of next season, they have already agreed a partnership with Ivybridge Town FC in order to meet FAWNL ground requirements. This move shows their ambition to develop as a club both on and off the pitch.

As a women’s team, they are relatively new having been established only in 2010 but no one can doubt their ambition and will to reach the very top level.