Broadbridge Heath Women made the trip to Horley Town on Sunday for their second pre-season fixture of the 2026/27 campaign, earning a 2-2 draw after another encouraging display despite travelling with a rotated squad.

With several players away on summer holidays and others enjoying Brighton Pride celebrations, the Bears were also without an out-and-out striker. However, that did little to disrupt an impressive team performance in testing 30-degree temperatures.

From the first whistle, Broadbridge Heath were on the front foot, dominating possession and creating a number of chances. Their pressure was rewarded before the break with a superbly worked team goal, finished confidently by pacey winger Nicole Cossey to give the visitors a deserved 1-0 lead. The scoreline could easily have been more before half-time, with the Bears creating several other opportunities.

A number of changes were made at the interval, including Molly Haynes replacing Milene Scott in goal, but the momentum remained firmly with Broadbridge Heath. The second goal arrived in spectacular fashion as Lily-Mae Van Drongelen curled a corner directly into the net to double the Bears' advantage.

Horley responded after a lapse in concentration at the back allowed the hosts to reduce the deficit to 2-1, setting up a tense finish.

In the closing moments, Horley were awarded what proved to be a controversial penalty following a challenge involving defender Liv Burnside. Haynes produced an excellent save from the spot, but the rebound fell kindly for the Horley attacker, who reacted quickest to convert and level the scores at 2-2.

While the result may suggest an even contest, the performance itself told a different story. Broadbridge Heath controlled large periods of the game, played some excellent football and continued to show the intensity and attacking intent that has been evident throughout pre-season.

With the management team still assessing new signings, trialists and different tactical systems ahead of the new campaign, there were plenty more positives to take from another valuable pre-season outing. The Bears remain unbeaten after two matches and will continue building momentum as preparations for the season continue.