C&K Basildon Ladies got their FA Women’s Premier League Southern Division season off to a winning start as they triumphed against Chichester City.

April Bowers hit the back of the net on her debut, while Danica Revell also notched her first goal for the club as C&K Basildon claimed a 2-0 victory.

Manager Steve Tilson has set his side a target of finishing in the top six and winning the Essex County Cup for the fourth time in five years.

Zoe Rushen believes Tilson’s target is attainable, and the C&K Basildon captain was delighted to claim three points on the opening day of the campaign.

Rushen said: “It was a fantastic way to start the season.

“It was an incredible strike for the first goal, which settled any nerves, and we looked to control the game from there.

“It was also very pleasing to keep a clean sheet against a strong and physical side.

“I agree with the ambitions from the manager.

“We had a fantastic finish to last season and we are looking to finish in similar fashion this year having strengthened our squad.

“But it will be tough as all teams in our league have also strengthened.”

It took just seven minutes for C&K Basildon to take the lead against the newly-promoted Chichester City.

An impressive pass from Angela Addison found Bowers, who curled her effort high into the net from the edge of the penalty area.

Tilson’s side continued to press but were unable to add to their one-goal advantage before the break.

However, C&K Basildon doubled their tally just four minutes after the interval.

The visitors could only partially clear a free-kick and although the Chichester City goalkeeper was equal to Addison’s shot, Revell was quickest to the rebound and slotted home.

The home side went in search of a third goal, but were nearly caught out by the away side in the final 15 minutes.

C&K Basildon goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles stopped an effort from a Chichester City striker, before blocking a close-range shot to keep her clean sheet intact.

Katie Whitehead was brought on late in the clash for her debut and was able to help her new side see out the game.

C&K Basildon will travel to Lewes - who made national headlines during the summer after matching the budget of their men’s side - on Sunday.

And Rushen is aware that Lewes will prove to be a tough side to beat despite going into the fixture full of confidence.

The C&K Basildon skipper added: “We travel to Lewes on Sunday, which will be another big test for us.

“It’s always a very physical, competitive game against them.

“But the girls are looking forward to the challenge that they bring us.”