CHERRIES’ women began their pre-season schedule with a resounding 4-0 defeat to Ipswich Town at Ringwood Community Hub.

Facing a side who compete in the league above, Steve Cuss’s team had no answer as Angela Addison bagged a brace, with Issy Bryant and Natasha Thomas also on target.

Rolling subs were utilised in the searing Dorset heat, with Cherries’ summer signings Ali Hall, Phoebe Williams and Ellie Strippel all featuring.

Cherries came close to taking the lead, Lucy Cooper firing over from the edge of the box.

Addison then broke the deadlock shortly before half-time, with three further goals following in the second period.

Cuss’s side next host Welsh outfit Penybont at Canford Park Arena on Sunday (2.30pm).

The league season gets underway on August 18, at Bristol Rovers.