A CROWD of around 100 people watched Ebbsfleet Ladies make their Stonebridge Road debut in Sunday’s season opener against MK Dons.

The squad has recently increased after the Fleet announced five new signings for the coming season, all experienced quality players.

Claire Williams joins from Crystal Palace, Pip Lawrence from a spell playing in America, Ann Downes arrives as much-needed goalkeeper cover, Robyn McEvoy comes from Millwall Ladies and Zara Phillips from Gillingham Ladies.

Unfortunately, their first home appearance didn’t get the result they probably deserved after a tough match up with MK Dons, who were strong, well-organised and a good challenge for the Fleet.

The first half started at a fast pace with MK Dons applying the early pressure, forcing some good saves from Faye Baker and pushing the Fleet back into defensive play.

But they didn’t have it all their own way as Fleet were unlucky not to open the scoring when Hannah Gilmour struck from 20 yards against the post only for striker Lisa Fulgence just to miss out on the rebound.

The match evened out towards the end of the first half and the two sides went in level at the break.

MK Dons came out of the blocks faster in the second half and scored an immediate opener, beating keeper Faye Baker from close range.

Ebbsfleet made changes and for 20 minutes dominated play and pounded the MK Dons goalby hitting the keeper, the post, the defender on the line - everything but the back of the net.

But as always seems to happen in football if those chances don’t get taken, the other team go down the other end against run of play and score a goal.

The final result was 3-0, as MK Dons finished the stronger of the two sides.

Ebbsfleet are away to Spurs on Sunday, kick-off 2pm.