BOLTONIANS Ladies’ first match went ahead despite the weather forcing a change of venue and although they were defeated 5-2 the Bolton team are optimistic for the future.

The weather prompted their opening game in the Greater Manchester Women’s League Division Two – in which they took on Swinton Ladies – to switch from Chapeltown to an artificial pitch at Ladybridge High School.

The historic first game did not get off to the best of starts as Boltonians conceded within minutes of the kick off, but they went into the break level at 2-2 thanks to two goals from man-of-the-match Stacey Saunders.

Despite having opportunities to take the lead in the second half, Bolts could not find the third goal they will feel they deserved and Swinton Ladies scored three goals in the final 20 minutes to win the game 5-2.

Despite the scoreline the side were pleased with the effort shown and look forward to their next game.