CHERRIES’ women ended their pre-season campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Exeter City at Ringwood Community Hub.

In a battle of the two clubs who ended last season unbeaten at the top of Division One South West, champions Exeter came out on top.

Cherries fell 2-0 behind early on. Sarah Stacey scored from the penalty spot, before former Reading midfielder Zoe Cunningham doubled the tally.

The hosts responded well with Gemma McGuinness and Kelci Bowers firing just off target, before Katie James struck the crossbar.

Cherries pulled a goal back before half-time, summer signing Ali Hall firing in.

Ellie Strippel and Jenna Markham came close to finding an equaliser, before Zoe Watkins then completed the scoring for the Grecians in the second half.

Cherries begin their season away at Bristol Rovers on Sunday (2pm).