Monthly Archives: March 2016

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Twenty Eight

Sunday 27th March

The clocks have gone forwards and the women’s football season it rapidly drawing to an end across the East, still loads to play for at both ends of the table, cup finalists are getting sorted. April is going to be a pivotal month, as Easter Bank Holiday weekend saw March draw to a close. The final Sunday of March falling over the Easter Holiday period saw a reduced fixture list across the region. No fixtures in Norfolk and Essex with just the 3 taking place between Cambridgeshire and Beds and Herts. 23 fixtures in all and 6 of those got called off as a heavy band of rain swept across the country with Storm Katie hot on it’s heels. 17 matches did take place and some significant results. All to come in Edition Twenty Eight of The Tuesday Round-Up.

FAWPL League Cup

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies booked their place in the final of the FAWPL League Cup last Sunday with a 1-0 win against Nottingham Forest Ladies now it was the turn of fellow FAWPL Southern Division side, Cardiff City Ladies at home to FAWPL Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies to see who would meet them in the final to be played at Kidderminster Harriers FC on Sunday 8th May.

Cardiff City Ladies opened the scoring after the half hour mark, Kerry Bartlett heading home from a corner kick, had a 2-0 advantage at half-time after Blackburn’s Lynda Sheppard put through her own net. Extended the lead to 3-0 20 minutes into the 2nd half with Hope Suominen on the scoresheet to make it comfortable, keeping Blackburn out the other end they set up an all FAWPL Southern Division, League Cup Final.

FAWPL Southern Division

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC have lead the FAWPL Southern Division virtually all season having gotten their games in when other hadn’t. There lead at the top is now 8 points with 2 matches left to play. All of their rivals have games in hand however cannot close the gap without Brighton dropping points. Were away this Sunday at C&K Basildon Ladies. Raced into a 2-0 lead Charlotte Gurr and Amy Taylor with the goals inside the opening 10 minutes. Claire Lacey pulled it back to 2-1 for C&K Basildon. Brighton took a 3-1 lead into the break with Deanna Cooper scoring. Cooper scored her 2nd of the match 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Brighton looking strong made it 5-1 when captain Jay Blackie scored on the 63rd minute. Substitute Kate Natkiel adding a 6th goal in the final minute. 

Portsmouth FC Ladies climb back up into 3rd place in the FAWPL Southern Division table were on the road at the weekend taking on 2nd bottom side Forest Green Rovers Ladies at Slimbridge AFC. Scored 3 goals in the 1st half to put them in a commanding position, Lucy Quinn on 15 minutes setting things rolling. Leeta Rutherford added the 2nd goal midway through the 1st half with Shannon Sievwright scoring the 3rd goal in 1st half injury time. No more goals 2nd half the 3 points going back to the south coast. 

Portsmouth FC Ladies are 8 points behind leaders Brighton with 2 games in hand, one of those is away to Brighton this Sunday a must win game if they want to keep their title hopes alive. That defeat for Forest Green Rovers Ladies seals their fate nothing short of a win would have done if they hoped to avoid relegation can no longer catch the sides above them as their tie in the FAWPL Southern Division ends after 1 season.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies comfortable in mid-table in the FAWPL Southern Division are looking to build some form at the end of the season to give them confidence going into the finals they have coming up in April and May. Were at home on Sunday playing Lewes Ladies, won the game 2-0 thanks to goals from Avilla Bergin and Rosie Kmita to make it 10 league wins for the season with 3 more matches to play.

FAWPL South East Division One

 A 3rd straight league win in March sees leaders Crystal Palace Ladies open up a 6 point gap at the top with their rivals Gillingham FC Ladies and Milton Keynes Dons Ladies facing each other this Sunday getting postponed. Crystal Palace Ladies remain unbeaten in the league were at home to 2nd bottom side Lowestoft Ladies and put in a commanding performance in both halves to seal the 3 points and give their goal difference another huge boost. Had a 4-0 lead at half-time, a brace from Gemma Bryan with a goal each for Leanne Bell and Rochelle Shakes. Pamela McRoberts set the ball rolling 2nd half before Byran 2 hit 2 minutes to make it 7-0, Nicha Dyett scored to make it 8-0. Bryan netting her 5th goal of the game to make the final score 9-0. 20 goals scored in their last 3 matches know they can’t afford to take their foot off the pedal, Gillingham FC Ladies in 3rd have games in hand can’t quite close the gap but a defeat for the leaders would change that.

Enfield Town Ladies earned a point at home against Denham United Ladies on Wednesday night, were at home again this Sunday taking on Norwich City Ladies and once again at the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium the points were shared the match ending in stalemate 0-0.

The points were shared too in Suffolk as 4th placed Luton Town Ladies travelled to Felixstowe & Walton FC to play Ipswich Town Ladies. Luton Town Ladies took a lead into half-time Natasha Fensome with the goal. Ipswich Town Ladies equalised early in the 2nd half Roxanne Small on target. Joanne Rutherford put Luton Town back in front but they were pegged back again Small with the goal again to see the game end 2-2. 

Eastern Regional Leagues

 One game survived the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division with 2nd bottom Great Shelford Ladies beating the 10 players of Brentwood Town Ladies 3-2 at home at the Great Shelford Recreation Ground. Katie Saunders, Sophie Ugar and Alison Wright with the goals to seal the win. Charlotte Twydell scored both Brentwood Town Ladies goals as they continue their poor run of form losing their last 6 league matches.

 Elsewhere in the ERWFL it was the final round of group matches in the Division One Cup. Now in the last edition of The Tuesday Round-Up I made a big deal about how it was all going to play out for the sides this Sunday with them contesting a semi-final spot. However it transpires this season’s competition has a quarter final stage in the knock out phase with the top 4 from each group A & B going through. Very frustrating from my point of view as the information I was given told me it was the same as last season’s League Plate competition that was indeed the top 2 from each group going into a semi-final knock out and the full time website backed this up. Still I wasn’t the only one thinking this as most of the clubs contesting the cup were too. I do apologise for the mis-information.

However we had 4 games being played and all survived the weather, was at one of those ties covering it for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. At the Codicote Social Club, both Stevenage Ladies sides were due to play, heavy overnight rain plus more falling saw the clubs player and staff working furiously to get the games on sadly Stevenage Ladies 1st team match in the ERWFL Premier Division against AFC Dunstable Ladies didn’t get played however the game I’d come to watch Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies was on.

It was 3rd versus 2nd in Group A with Essex side, Little Thurrock Dynamos 2nd defending an unbeaten record in the group stage. Fell a goal behind as Stevenage Ladies Reserve striker Leah Littlechild charged through into the box to score. The lead didn’t last long as Little Thurrock Dynamos were awarded a free kick wide on the right halfway inside their opponents half Elysia King to take flighted a high ball in towards the near post goalkeeper Emily Goodacre got a glove to the ball but saw to her dismay mishandled to see it drop into the back of the net. Stevenage had the lead going into the dressing room at half-time captain Sherrie Evans corner quick finding it’s way into the back of the net as Little Thurrock Dynamos struggled to defend.

 Stevenage Ladies Reserves started the 2nd half strongly pushing Little Thurrock Dynamos back looked like there would be only one side to score next, however Little Thurrock Dynamos hit Stevenage on the counter Martine Smith turning on the ball to run into the area and lift a shot over Goodacre the ball smashing off the cross bar coming down for Robin Mudd to tuck home on the follow up 2-2. Little Thurrock Dynamos their heads up after the goal went on to take the lead Georgia Fraser lifting her shot over the keeper to drop into the back of the net. At the death Stevenage hit back to equalise a corner fired into the crowd gathered at the near post was forced in to make it 3-3. The full match report can be found scrolling down the page on Women’s Football East or by clicking on the link below to take you to the Supporting Women’s Football Blog

Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Little Thurrock Dynamos 27/03/16

Also in Group A leaders Writtle Ladies were also into the knock-out stages whilst the bottom 2 in the group faced each other in their final match a win for either putting them through with Bury Town Ladies hosting ERWFL Division One West leaders Hutton Ladies. It’s Hutton Ladies who make it to the knock out stage with a 5-0 win.

In Group B leaders Offley & Stopley Ladies were already through as were 2nd placed Hoddesdon Owls Ladies who had both played out their group games. 3rd placed Colney Heath Ladies went into their home match against Silver End United Ladies thinking it was a must win game largely due to the last edition of The Tuesday Round-Up, as it was it was Silver End Ladies who needed the win with 4th spot in contention with Royston Town Ladies. Colney Heath Ladies went 2-0 up in the 1st half with goals from Samantha May and Holly Sheridan. Silver End United Ladies got it back to 2-1 before nicking it at the death winning 3-2 goals coming in the 89th and the winner in injury time the 3 goals scored by Rebecca Hollocks, Alexandra Bailess and Lynsey Bowman to see them secure 4th in the group.

Royston Town Ladies won too away to Long Melford Ladies as the too bottom sides met in Group B. Royston Town Ladies won the match 5-0 but if you’d have left with 15 minutes left on the clock you’d have missed all the goals as the 1st didn’t come until the 75th minute. the 5 goals coming from, Hayley Graham, Emma Phipps, Samantha Tinsley, Georgia Gannaway and Danielle Lewis.

 The quarter finals are no scheduled to be played on Sun 10th April and it’s 1st v 4th and 2nd v 3rd respectfully from Group A & B so the knock out stage looks like this:

Writtle Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Offley & Stopsley Ladies v Hutton Ladies

Hoddesdon Owls Ladies v Stevenage Ladies Reserves

Suffolk

In Suffolk there were 2 league matches taking place this weekend in the Women’s Division. Brantham Athletic Ladies were at home to Copleston Ladies both sides in the title mix. A point behind leaders East Bergholt United with a match in hand, Brantham Athletic Ladies end the month as the new leaders of the Division but only on goal difference as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Copleston Ladies, had took the lead through an own goal in the 1st half. Conceded an own goal themselves 2nd half to put the scores level. Both themselves and East Bergholt United have 30 points with 3 matches left to play. Copleston Ladies are back in 5th place still have been playing catch up all season still have plenty to play for on 20 points behind the leading pair have 4 games in hand on both and have an important April coming up.

Leiston St Margarets Ladies are in a hot streak of form ending March with a 3rd successive win picking up their 2nd against bottom side Ipswich Phoenix Ladies in 3 weeks at home to make it 4 wins for the season. The score was 1-1 at half-time before Leiston St Margarets went on to score the winner 2-1 the final score, Lucy Eagle and Sarah Cooper with the goals. Ipswich Phoenix Ladies are still without a point in the Division, Kirsty Haggar with their goal at the weekend.

Cambridgeshire

Just the one match across the 3 Divisions in Cambridgeshire at the weekend, in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, a Casey Ward goal was enough to give park Ladies all 3 points away to Riverside Rovers Reserves. The victory sees Park Ladies move to within a point of leaders St Ives Town Ladies with a game in hand.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Two matches played in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire at the weekend. Letchworth Garden City Eagles Ladies were hosting Garston Ladies in the quarter finals of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup. Letchworth scored twice through Emily Jamieson and Tayla Murray, it wasn’t enough however as Garston Ladies the current holders of the League Cup reach the semi-finals scoring 3 times, Emma Trill and Lucy Zecchin on target plus and own goal sealing the win. They will be away to Hertford Town Ladies in the semi-finals whilst last season’s beaten finalists Sherrardswood Ladies are home against Watton Ladies. 

One league game at the weekend in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three. 3rd placed Evergreen Ladies close the gap on the leading pair Hitching Belles and Icknield Ladies to just 3 points with a 3-1 home win against Panshanger Ladies. Rebecca Freeman gave Evergreen the lead inside 5 minutes no more goals 1st half, Panshanger pulled it level 10 minutes into the 2nd half Chemise Huitson netting the goal. Evergreen retook the lead 5 minutes later Lauren Atkins putting the back into the back of the net. The 3 points weren’t secured until injury time Emily Jones scoring Evergreen’s 3rd goal have a game in hand on 2nd placed Icknield Ladies who they have at home this coming Sunday.

That concludes a smaller than usual edition of The Tuesday Round-Up. A busy April coming up a few titles will be decided, cup won and lost. Plenty more drama to cover and you’ll read about it all here on Women’s Football East. Until next week thanks for reading.

Match Report – Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

Latest match report featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, from Sun 27th March.

Match Report – Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

 

 A match this Sunday from the last round of group matches in the ERWFL Division One Cup, taking a look at two new sides for the 1st time, too with Stevenage Ladies Reserves hosting Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies.

 The competition involves the sides competing in the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) Division’s One East and West drawn to play each other in two groups with 6 in each following West Billericay Ladies pulling out of the league and Sawbridgeworth Town WFC not taking part. Originally I was led to believe it was the top two from each group A & B going into a semi-final knock-out stage and for weeks have been putting that info out without being corrected, today I have found out there is actually a quarter final stage hence the top 4 from each group progress with 1st playing 4th from the opposite group, as well as 2nd v 3rd. 

  So I turned up today thinking this was a winner takes all match in Group A with Little Thurrock Dynamos in 2nd spot needing just a draw to progress, Stevenage Ladies Reserves needing the win. As it is both are jockeying for final position in the Group with the top two having home advantage in the quarter-finals.

ERWFL Division One Cup – Group A              
                   
Pos Team Pl W D L F A GD Pts
1 Writtle Ladies 5 4 1 0 17 3 14 13
2 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 4 2 2 0 7 3 4 8
3 Stevenage Ladies Reserves 4 2 0 2 10 7 3 6
4 Ipswich Wanderers Ladies 5 1 1 3 5 14 -9 4
5 Hutton Ladies 4 1 0 3 7 9 -2 3
6 Bury Town Ladies 4 1 0 3 6 16 -10 3

 That was of course if there was a match taking place at all. Heavy over night rain and more forecast meant there was a good chance it wouldn’t survive with Storm Katie on the horizon too. Headed for Hertfordshire dark clouds ahead of me. The venue Codicote Social Club a few miles outside Stevenage where both Stevenage Ladies 1st and Reserve sides play. 2 pitches both sides were scheduled for a game today and the squads were doing their best working to get water off the pitches trying to get their games on even as more heavy rain fell. A lot of water on the ground in the goalmouth and before the penalty area where the pitch dips a little half an hour to go before kick off it didn’t look promising. Final decision with the referee who was last to arrive needed the rain to stop falling for a couple of hours or so, it did slow and thanks to the hard work put in by the Reserves side their match was on albeit a few minutes late kicking off.

Credit to the Stevenage Ladies Reserves players for the work put in to get the game on.

    Although I’ve seen Stevenage Ladies in action before, who play in the league above the ERWFL Premier Division and are looking a good bet for promotion to the FAWPL, I haven’t seen their Reserves side, the club works closely with the men’s team. The Reserves play in the ERWFL Division One West and with 2 league matches left to play can overhaul leaders Hutton Ladies for top spot. The Codicote Social Club boasts a large newly built clubhouse with bar over looking the pitches with a good sized changing room block beside it with further plans to improve the playing grounds in the near future. 

   The visitors today are Essex side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies they compete in the ERWFL Division One East, along with 6 other sides have played out their league fixtures finishing 5th in the table. Have shown much better form in the Division One Cup Group stage are 2nd in Group A, unbeaten in their previous 4 games a draw or better today guarantees 2nd and gives them home advantage in the quarter finals. A growing club also runs a reserve side competing in the Essex Women’s County League along with a number of youth sides.

 Stevenage Ladies Reserves starting XI – Emily Goodacre, Netice Chalkright, Jade Beckett, Keri Green, Chloe Rouse, Cara Breckenridge, Rebecca Brooker, Megan Evans, Sherrie Evans, Dani Friel & Leah Littlechild.
 subs – Steffany Cowell, Kelly Hannington, Isabelle McAree, Kerry Milton & Sarah Payne.

 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Atlanta Fulva, Courtney Fraser, Elysia King,
Danielle Styles, Taylor Parrish, Sydney Killick, Patrizia Leo, Libby Clarke, Abbie Simmonds, Georgia Fraser & Katy Judd.
 subs – Robin Mudd, Naomi Hayes, Kerri Thomas, Kaylee Warwick & Martine Smith

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   We had a game on the rain had stopped the dark clouds moving around the ground actually had blue skies beyond, the 1st team weren’t so lucky their match against AFC Dunstable Ladies getting called off. A quarter of an hour late it’s Stevenage playing in an all blue strip with black sleeves on the shirts get the 1st half underway, with Little Thurrock wearing lime green shirts with black across the front and sleeves, black shorts and socks. Play is congested in the midfield before Stevenage flight the ball long for striker Leah Littlechild breaking into the area has strayed offside. Up the other end, Little Thurrock’s striker Katy Judd, hustles the Stevenage back line looking to take the ball off a toe and steal into the box.
The match kicks-off as the dark clouds in the distance disappear.
Picking up the ball in central midfield, Sydney Killick plays the ball in over the top for her Little Thurrock team mate Georgia Fraser, 20 yards out wants to get into the area but is pushed wide by Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge, puts in the challenge lunging to take the ball away from Fraser who goes after the ball wrapping her foot around it on the byline sends high cross into the area is pulled down out of the air by Stevenage goalkeeper, Emily Goodacre with Judd coming in behind her. Little Thurrock come again down the left side Courtney Fraser onto Libby Clarke ahead of her reaching the edge of the box unleashes a shot, fires it straight at Goodacre who holds onto the ball.
   Little Thurrock get the ball into the area from the flanks on a couple of occasions, Stevenage’s Jade Beckett gets her head on both to clear. Bright sunshine all around, grounds still wet the ball now carrying but players keeping their feet well enough, those that don’t want to go for a slide in the mud that is. Judd springs the offside trap and runs in behind the Stevenage defence from the right the ball getting held up as she goes to shoot from inside the box doesn’t get the contact to take it past Goodacre the goalkeeper sees the bouncing ball into her gloves.
  GOAL! Stevenage get the early advantage going ahead a striker Littlechild steals in on the ball taking it off the Little Thurrock defence carries it towards the area, Courtney Fraser tries to get across from left back to put in the challenge slides in takes the ball away from Littlechild but she stays on her feet gets after the ball rounding left and turns her shot across the Little Thurrock keeper Atlanta Fulva and in at the far post 1-0.
 
Leah Littlechild carrying the ball forwards for Stevenage Ladies Reserves
  Stevenage have another goal chalked off for offside moments later a high ball sent across the pitch from the left sees Rebecca Brooker racing into the box from the right looks to knock her header across the goal, falls far post and is turned home, however the flag is up. Testing ball played in from the right for Little Thurrock by Patrizia Leo, little too high for Judd, will carry through to Georgia Fraser beyond, Stevenage’s right back Netice Chalkright attempts to hook it clear smashes the ball into Fraser but the rebound spins away from goal out for a goal kick.
  GOAL! Little Thurrock get themselves back on level terms as Judd is followed out wide on the right the set piece halfway inside the Stevenage half, right back Elysia King to take. Sends a high ball floating in towards the near post. too high for a runner to head on Goodacre goes up to put a glove on the ball set it wide mishandles and to her dismay the ball drops behind her into the back of the net 1-1.
 
   Judd goes after a ball put through into the left channel by Little Thurrock captain, Abbie Simmonds, taking it down to the byline her 1st cross is cut out by Chalkright, the ball comes back to Judd steals around the Stevenage right back into the area as she tries to recover, takes on the shot sends the ball high and wide across the goal face. Little Thurrock make a double change switching the wide players Leo and Clarke come off for Martine Smith and Robin Mudd.
Little Thurrock Dynamos captain, Abbie Simmonds
Strong run through the middle by Littlechild taking the ball into the area, Little Thurrock central defender Taylor Parrish recovers well to get back on her slides in to send the ball out for a throw. Stevenage’s Keri Green defends well against Smith trying to bring the ball down the right as she is send down the line by Judd. Georgia Fraser is subbed by Little Thurrock which sees Smith move into the middle with Naomi Hayes going right. 
  GOAL! Initially it is a fantastic tackle from Little Thurrock’s Danielle Styles to deny Stevenage’s Megan Evans a shot on goal as she is put through into the area, Styles committing to the sliding challenge has to get it right the ball goes out for a corner on the left. The defending for the corner isn’t great the ball whipped in by captain Sherrie Evans is missed by the defender at the near post squeezing through and goes in at the far side to put the home side back into the lead 2-1.
 
Stevenage Ladies Reserves
captain, Sherrie Evans
 
  Simmonds plays a great ball though the middle dissecting the Stevenage defence with Mudd making a run around the back from the left side to get into the area, Goodacre has read it and off her line quickly is onto the ball before Mudd can connect. Good build up play from Stevenage, Dani Friel putting the  ball into Littlechild 20 yards out back to go rolls it left to Evans, who passes back to Friel her pass releasing Breckenridge on the left wing, she looks to put the cross into the box for Littlechild the is challenged the ball turned behind for a corner. Stevenage make a change bringing on Kelly Hannington for Breckenridge who took a knock in their last attack.
   Hannington attacks down the right for Stevenage as they finish the 1st half strongly, whips a cross in near post, is cut out by Styles, rolls back to Hannington looks to curl her 2nd cross in towards the far post, too close to Fulva the keeper claims the ball. Late chance for Little Thurrock as Simmonds goes long with the pass, Smith is after it closing in on the left corner of the Stevenage box goes for goal hits it wide across the six yard box.
Half-time Stevenage Ladies Reserves 2-1 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies
 Amazingly despite all the rain before kick-off we’ve had a 1st half played in bright sunshine, blue skies the pitch has held up well, little tricky with the white lines faded but can’t be helped, players have been able to keep their footing. Stevenage have the advantage Littlechild a threat through the middle. Little Thurrock have used the width more got the ball into the box however the Stevenage defence has been winning the headers. 
  Changes at the start of the 2nd half for both sides Kaylee Warwick and Kerri Thomas on for Little Thurrock. Three changes for Stevenage with Kelly Milton, Isabelle McAree and Steffany Cowell on as they look to try and build on their lead. Little Thurrock to kick off the 2nd half. Evans wins the ball in midfield looks to send Littlechild in the centre through on goal, Parrish gets across to challenge her for Little Thurrock sees the ball out for a throw. Stevenage are pushing Little Thurrock back at the start of the 2nd half have players up around the front of their area spreading play right to left comes to Hannington stabs the ball up for Evans just inside the area, central heads the ball down sees it bounce wide of the goal. 
Little Thurrock Dynamos Sydney Killick looking to beat
Stevenage’s Megan Evans to the ball
  Little Thurrock relieve some pressure launch the ball long for Judd to go after running central, Goodacre had been carefully marking the edge of her area where the water had sat before kick off at the start of the 2nd half comes racing out to close Judd down out of the area gets her boot to the ball 1st as the pair come together. Stevenage break down the right Littlechild with possession drives on, has players up with her for the cross lining up along the area, is rolled though to Hannington in a central position shoots, a low effort Fulva gets down to her right to stop it, is loose but her defence helps to clear as Milton tries to latch onto the ball.
Stevenage’s Megan Evans won’t be shoved of the ball as she drives forwards
Both sides are making full use of the roll on roll off substitutes, Clarke returning to the action for Little Thurrock with Judd rested sees Mudd go up to support Smith in attack. Breckenridge is back on for Stevenage with Brooker the player coming off. Play on the right the cross is from Milton into the area, Littlechild looks to flick it on, Little Thurrock half clear the ball coming to Hannington left side of the area closing in on the near post lifts her shot high over the bar, took a knick corner given. The ball drops into the middle of the area, bit of pinball between the sides before Little Thurrock get it away. Evans won’t be knocked off the ball as she pushes her way through the middle, Hannington is coming in from the left side wants the ball put into the area, Evans turns the ball inside, Fulva is closest to it get’s her gloves on it before Hannington can connect.
Martine Smith on the ball for Little Thurrock Dynamos
GOAL! It looked like only one side was going to score the next goal, however football isn’t like that for all the pressure Stevenage have been applying at the start of the 2nd half Little Thurrock go up the other end and level thing’s back up. Bringing it over half way the ball is fired into Smith midway inside the Stevenage half back to goal pulls off her marker and drives out right looking to get into the area the Stevenage defence can’t get back on her as she clips the shot in sending it arrowing up over Goodacre the ball smashes against the crossbar drops back into play left side inside the six yard box, Mudd is running in on the follow up to turn it back in, Goodacre throws herself at it but the ball squeezes under her to make it 2-2.
 
Robin Mudd makes it 2-2 for Little Thurrock
 
 
   Simmonds is back on for the visitors. The goal has lifted Little Thurrock’s game they win the ball in the middle, Simmonds putting it long for Mudd to have a run at the Stevenage are a defender on her shoulder closing in on the left corner, Goodacre comes to close down, sliding in gets hurt as she takes out her own player, the ball is still alive rolling on, Clarke races onto it tries to put the ball into the empty net, Stevenage get back to intercept the ball. Goodacre is okay after receiving treatment. Gathers a shot lacking pace from Mudd as she is played onto the ball by Thomas bursting through the middle. 
  Smith and Mudd are replaced in attack with Judd and Georgia Fraser back on for Little Thurrock. Friel comes back on for Stevenage as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. Good defending inside the box from Leo for Little Thurrock on Stevenage’s Hannington inside the box as she looks to control a high ball sent in from the right. Isn’t long before Leo finds herself up the other end of the pitch Simmonds playing her in down the wing she looks to hit the ball the cross/shot straight at Goodacre at her near post.
 GOAL! 3 minutes left on the clock and Little Thurrock take the lead for the 1st time in the game, Parrish out from the back puts the ball up into the Stevenage half is helped out to the right side in front of the area with Georgia Fraser getting hold of it takes on the shot, sending the ball up and over Goodacre and into the back of the net 2-3.
 
Georgia Fraser scorer of Little Thurrock
Dynamos Ladies 3rd goal
  Into injury time Stevenage get the ball down into the Little Thurrock penalty box shouts for a penalty are waved away as they see a player go down in the box from a Styles challenge the ball out for a corner kick on the left.
  GOAL! The corner ball is fired in shoulder height near post their are plenty of bodies around trying to get something on the ball, is in Fulva’s gloves memorially but doesn’t stick and drops over the line, now idea who got the final touch possibly an own goal 3-3.
  Late drama Little Thurrock defend frantically as Stevenage come on, Breckenridge steals in on the ball with the visitors having a throw, takes the ball into the area left of goal sees her shot blocked deflected wide for another corner is cleared scrambled up to halfway as the referee blows the final whistle and the match ends in a 3-3 draw. Both sides into the quarter finals, Little Thurrock end the group stage unbeaten will hope to carry that form on into the knock-out stages were under a spell of pressure 2nd half but came back into the game well taking the lead before eventually conceding. Stevenage did well especially 2nd half dominant didn’t convert their chances the draw sees them stay 3rd in the group.
  And if the quarter finals are as I’ve been told they should look something like this:
Writtle Ladies v Silver End United Ladies
Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies
Hoddesdon Owls v Stevenage Ladies Reserves
Offley & Stopsley Ladies v Hutton Ladies 
 A good contest today enjoyed it my thanks to both clubs for all of their help with the team details today. Thanks to for the Stevenage Ladies team and staff for their tremendous efforts in making sure we had a game on in the 1st place. Best of luck to both sides in the knock out stages.

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Twenty Seven

Sunday 20th March

 Spring is here and the leagues across the east are entering the home straight, the title contenders are getting whittled down. Team’s are playing out their league fixtures whilst others still have alot of catching up to do. Cup final placed are being decided and the 1st pieces of silverware are being contested. Edition Twenty-Seven of The Tuesday Round-Up will bring you all of the action from over 50 matches that were played across the leagues in the region. Let’s go!

FA Women’s Cup

As the FA Women’s Cup reaches the 5th Round stage this weekend the round when the big guns from FAWSL 1 enter the competition there was just the one club still representing the leagues represented on Women’s Football East still involved, FAWPL Southern Division leaders, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, who were at home taking on the other non FAWSL side left in the cup, FAWPL Northern Division side Sporting Club Albion Ladies. 

 Sporting Club Albion took control of the tie racing into a 3 goal lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Samantha Conroy with the opening goal on 10 minutes, it was 2-0 five minutes later Summer Holmes on target with Abigail Cottam adding the 3rd just a minute later. Brighton rallied late in the 1st half to pull a goal back through Lisa Fulgence making it 3-1 the break. 2nd half Sophie Perry smashing a free kick in off the underside of the crossbar. Into the final 10 minutes of the tie and the home side had the scores level Charley Boswell making it 3-3. Time for more drama with Sporting Club Albion regaining the lead just 2 minutes later Conroy with her 2nd goal of the match, the winning goal too as Sporting Club Albion Ladies book their place in the semi-finals of the FA Women’s Cup.

Their reward an away trip to play FAWSL 1 side Manchester City Women in the 6th Round on Sun 3rd April.

FAWPL League Cup

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies were looking to reach their 3rd Cup Final of the season as they travelled north to play FAWPL Northern Division side, Nottingham Forest Ladies in the semi-final of the FAWPL League Cup. A tough test for Tottenham with Nottingham Forest Ladies doing well in the league, however Tottenham had knocked the leaders of their division out of the league cup in the previous round a single goal enough that time around. So to it proved this time coming in the 2nd half 20 minutes from time as substitute Eartha Pond fired a cross in towards the Nottingham Forest box Leah Rawle helping it on to the far post where Avilla Bergin was closing in to squeeze the ball home and send Tottenham into the League Cup Final where their opponents will be either Blackburn Rovers Ladies or Cardiff City Ladies the final is due to be played Sun 8th May at Kidderminster Harriers FC. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies are also in the finals of the Ryman and Capital Women’s Cup’s their opponents in both games Charlton Athletic Women.

FAWPL Southern Division

With the FAWPL Southern Division leaders, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC involved in the FA Women’s Cup there was an opportunity for 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women to close the gap at the top. Their opponents felt the same with 4th placed Coventry United Ladies visiting Sporting Club Thamesmead. In the end they had to settle for a share of the points the 1st half ending goalless, Charlton took an early lead in the 2nd half with striker Gemma Shepherd putting the ball home on 47 minutes. Coventry United responded getting back on level terms 15 minutes later. The final score both still have games on the leaders however are relying on points being dropped if they wish to pip Brighton to the title.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies were all but relegated before the weekend needed other results to go there way, however without a win themselves it would count for nothing, have just the one all season in the league. C&K Basildon Ladies were the visitors had the chance to take the lead from the penalty spot but missed the target. Plymouth went 2-0 up midway through the 1st half Mollie Taylor with the 1st goal, Jodie Chubb netting just 3 minutes later. C&K Basildon Ladies had it all square pulling 2 goals back before half-time. 2nd period the visitors went on to score 2 more goals to win the game 4-2 and end Plymouth’s stay in the FAWPL Southern Division. The goal scorers for C&K Basildon were Karissa Rodney, Stacey Little, Lily Mellors and Zoe Rushen.

Plymouth would have still gone down had Lewes Ladies gotten any points away to Forest Green Rovers Ladies. As it was Lewes Ladies hit the side 2nd bottom in the FAWPL Southern Division for 6 which has left them all but relegated themselves. The win almost certainly guarantees Lewes Ladies will be playing in the FAWPL Southern Division next season. Paige Walder gave them the lead on 15 minutes, Sian Heather making it 2-0 at half-time went on to score another 2 goals in the 2nd half to complete her hat-trick, Kellie Larkin and substitute Ellie Lock also scored in the 6-0 victory.

   That win for Lewes Ladies sees them move up above West Ham United Ladies who drop to 10th in the table as they were beaten 2-0 at home to 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday. Alys Hinchcliffe gave the visitors the lead before Hope Suominen scored late on to secure the 3 points. 

FAWPL South East Division One

  Crystal Palace keep the lead in the FAWPL South East Division One extending their unbeaten record to 15 games in the league. For the 2nd Sunday running were taking on Old Actonians Ladies having beaten them away 5-0 last weekend were on home turf this time around the advantage 5 goals again, Gemma Bryan helping herself to 4 goals, with Abigail Igbavboa and Nicha Pyelt also scoring. Jessica Byrne pulled a goal back for Old Actonians who remain 3rd from bottom still win less in the league in 2016 4 matches now have plenty of games in hand on the bottom 2 but badly need to pick up some points to pull clear of trouble.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies were keeping the pressure on the leaders Crystal Palace just a pint behind going into the weekend were at home at Newport Pagnell FC playing Enfield Town Ladies. The home side took a 2 goal lead into the break with Sophie Watson and Charley Clarke finding the back of the net. Enfield Town Ladies battled back 2nd half to earn a point Regan Coleman scoring both of their goals.

Having gotten up to 3rd place in the table Gillingham FC Ladies have games in hand on the sides above them but need to collect all the points they can, did so at the weekend were in ruthless form doing their goal difference a massive boost in the process as they made it unlucky 13 for visitors Lowestoft Town Ladies. Kallie Balfour scoring 3 goals, her hat-trick was added to with a quartet scoring braces in the game, Emma Tune, Lydia Wills, plus subs Paige Baker-Carroll and Shannon Redhouse all scoring 2 each, Madison North on target to, all coming after Lauren Davis had opened the scoring on 2 minutes. In the other match in the FAWPL South East Division One Luton Town Ladies were held to a goalless draw at home by Denham United Ladies.

Eastern Regional Leagues

In the ERWFL Premier Division, leaders Billericay Town Ladies open up a 5 point lead on 2nd placed Stevenage Ladies. Were at home playing local rivals Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday, won the match 3-0. Nicola Dunston, Lucy Wyatt and Nicole Farmer the players getting their name on the scoresheet. Have played more league matches than anyone else in the division with just the 1 game left to play that though is a month away.

 Stevenage Ladies have 4 games in hand on Billericay Town Ladies however they dropped points at the weekend. A trip up to Norfolk to play Acle United Ladies who need the points to pull themselves away from the 2 sides below. Got a vital point holding Stevenage Ladies 0-0.

Below Acle United Ladies, bottom side Greta Wakering Ladies have found some form at just the right time as they look to escape from the bottom of the table. Made it 2 away victories in a row following up last Sunday’s 4-2 away win at Brentwood Town Ladies, beat 4th placed Haringey Borough Women on the road this Sunday winning the match 2-1. To keep level on points with Great Shelford Ladies. Unlikely anyone will be relegated from the league this season as 2 sides have already dropped out leaving 10 to compete what should be a 12 team league.

With the ERWFL Division One, East and West sides competing in the group stages of the Division One Cup in recent weeks, it was easy to forget there were still league matches to be played across both divisions. In the Division One East a match was played this weekend with Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies playing their last league game of the season away to fellow Essex side Silver End United Ladies currently in 2nd place in the table that has seen some adjustment with the departure of West Billericay Ladies from the league. After a goalless 1st half, Silver End United Ladies went onto to win the game 2-1, Rebecca Hollocks netting both their goals, Georgia Fraser scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos who finish their league campaign in 5th place. Long Melford Ladies have played out too finish 6th along with Ipswich Wanderers Ladies who are currently 3rd but can be over taken by 4th placed Bury Town Ladies should they win their final league match against unbeaten league leaders Writtle Ladies. Silver End United Ladies are 2nd, 3 points behind Writtle have 2 games left and they are home and away against Writtle Ladies, big games coming up for both.

Elsewhere in the ERWFL, it was the continuation of the Division One Cup, group stages. Almost reaching it’s conclusion the top two from each group go through to the semi-final knock out stage. In Group A leaders Writtle Ladies unbeaten in the group were playing there final match at home against Ipswich Wanderers who too were seeing there season out. Writtle win the game 3-1 with goals from, Courtney Clarke, Abigail Fry and Georgia Tricker to guarantee top spot in the group qualify for the semi-finals. Also in Group A, Stevenage Ladies Reserves set up a last game shootout for 2nd spot in the table as they lift themselves up to 3rd spot it the table with a comfortable 6-0 win at home against Hutton Ladies. Leah Littlechild striking 4 times with a goal a piece for Hannah Marshall and Rebecca Brooker. They play 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies in their final group match 2 points ahead of them a draw will do at Stevenage Ladies Reserves who will need to win.

In Group B, Offley & Stopley Ladies were at home against Colney Heath Ladies unbeaten in the group, both were on 9 points looking to go top. Colney Heath were suffering from injuries and had just the 9 players available, that didn’t stop them taking the lead, Holly Sheridan on target inside 5 minutes Adrienne Milton made it 2-0 half way through the 1st half as Colney Heath took the lead into half time. Despite a battling performance Offley & Stopsley Ladies got themselves back on level terms early into the 2nd half before going on to take a 4-2 lead, Milton scored late on of Colney Heath but they stay 3rd in the group as Offley & Stopsley finish top in 12 points. Colney Heath Ladies have one more match left to play and can join them in the semi-finals if they beat Silver End United Ladies next Sunday. Hoping that they don’t get the 3 points are Hoddesdon Owls Ladies who move into 2nd place in Group B onto 10 points with a 3rd straight win in the cup competition, at home against Royston Town Ladies, Kristi Burling, Becky Scola and Kristina O’Connell getting the goals in a 3-0 win. 

Norfolk

Brandon Town Ladies currently hold the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division One on 30 points played 13 games have just the 1 game left to play and it will be a while before they do with other sides needing to catch up on fixtures. Whilst they wait they can only watch as home they get a favour from an opponent to retain the lead as in 2nd place Wymondham Town Ladies close the gap to just a point with 2 matches in hand as they stay unbeaten in the league with 3 to play a trip to Maltings Meadow on Sunday to play Bungay Town Ladies, had a 1-0 lead at half-time through Kayleigh Holloway, 2nd half Wymondham added 4 more goals Sally Hammerton with a brace, plus goals from Laura Hammerton and Alice Collins. Two big games coming up against the 3rd and 4th placed sides. Announced some more news at the weekend following the formation of a development side next season, the 1st team has applied for promotion to the ERWFL, will want to go up as champions.

With more games to play than anyone else in the league 4th placed Thorpe United Ladies have a busy April coming up can catch the leaders, Brandon who they have to play in the run in as well as Wymondham. Were away this Sunday at bottom side Long Stratton Ladies who had just the 8 players available. Thorpe United took full advantage winning convincingly 3 players all scoring twice, Sharnie Boast, Charlotte Groves and Rebekah Lake, with 3 more on target with a goal each, Olivia Mungham-Gray, Becky Russell and Hayley Kindred in a 9-0 win. 

Also in Norfolk Women’s Division One, Fakenham Town Ladies met Lynn Ladies at home in a derby match, went 2 goals behind to win the game 3-2 late on. Nina Batchelor scoring a goal with 2 more scored by Rochelle Woods.

One match took place in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with 5th placed Bohemians ladies travelling to bottom side Morley Ladies. The visitors left with the 3 points in the bag takes to a 2 goal win, Nicole Sheldrake with both the strikes on target. The defeat for Morley means they can’t escape the bottom 2 in the league.

In Norfolk Women’s Division Three it was the battle between the top 2 both with an unbeaten record to defend as leaders Harleston Ladies travelled to Emerald Park to play Gorleston FC Ladies who had won 7 out of 7 to date. Harleston 10 points in front. Gorleston have 4 matches in hand closed the gap to 7 points as they ended Harleston’s unbeaten record with a 5-2 win. Bethany Turner and Kayleigh Byrne both scoring twice with Samantha Hunn also going through to score. Lacey Andrews scored both Harleston Ladies goals. Both sides are likely to go on to win promotion.

Freethorpe Ladies are leapfrogged by Toftwood Ladies in the Division Three table as they climb into 4th spot following a 4-0 away win Katie Hart and Thea Wilson with a brace each in the match. Sprowston Ladies Reserves are now unbeaten in 3 matches as they climb away from the bottom of the Division Three table denting Red Rose United’s faint hopes of a top 2 finish in the process as they beat them 3-2 at home on Sunday.

Suffolk

  Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies normally get mentioned in the section above competing as they do in Norfolk Women’s Division Two, however situated just over the boarder in Suffolk they qualify for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup competition where they had reached the semi-finals. Both played this weekend the prize a place at the final being played this season at Portman Road home of Ipswich Town FC. Were playing Bury Town Ladies from the ERWFL Division One East, the game played at a neutral venue Walsham Le Willows FC.

A clash of kits saw Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies playing in the red shirts of Walsham Le Willows. Bury started the brighter without really troubling their opponents goal. Kirkley & Pakefield grew into the game hitting Bury on the counter smashed the ball against the crossbar twice in quick succession. Bury struck the woodwork themselves then 5 minutes before half time Norma Locker gave them the lead heading home from a corner kick. Kirkley & Pakefield battled hard to get back into the game 2nd half and pulled it level through Jody Wells breaking in on goal to slot home. That saw the game head into extra-time, a cagey half hour neither side settling for the shootout to follow Kirkley & Pakefield won a free kick wide right inside the Bury half with 4 minutes left to play Wells sweeping the ball into the area Sophie Martin timed her run perfectly to turn the ball into the back of the net an win it for Kirkley & Pakefield. The whole match report was featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and can be viewed on the Women’s Football east website just keep scrolling down.

  Meeting Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the final of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup will be Ipswich Town Ladies the current holders. Was a repeat of last season’s final as they played AFC Sudbury Ladies at Stowmarket Town FC. Again the tie headed into extra time with the score 0-0 after the 90. An extra-time winner saw the Ipswich Town Ladies team get the chance to play at Portman Road, Jasmine Cox with the goal. The final is scheduled to be played on Monday 23rd April a 7pm KO.

Two league games were played in the Suffolk Women’s Division at the weekend. A surprise result for Leiston St Margarets Ladies at home against Bacton United Ladies had won just the 2 league games in the league both against bottom side Ipswich Phoenix Ladies the last one just last Sunday. 2 wins in a row now beating Bacton United 4-1 with goals from Sophie Hall and Leanne Fairweather, as well as Lucy Eagle who bagged herself a brace.

That defeat for Bacton United see’s them drop to 4th in the table as Witnesham Wasps Ladies move above them with a large home win against bottom side Ipswich Phoenix who have now conceded over 100 goals this season. Emily Steward helped herself to a serving of 5 goals in the match for Witnesham wasps with Lauren Page getting 2 more, Alice Rampling and Beth Welton also scoring in a 9-0 win.

Cambridgeshire

Semi-final action in Cambridgeshire this weekend too in the Women’s Invitation Cup, an annual event between Cambridge United WFC and Great Shelford Ladies in recent seasons both kept apart in the semi-final draw had sides aiming for title success in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership as opponents. Cambridge United WFC of the FAWPL South East Division One and current holders of the cup were away but not too far a local derby facing Cambridge City Ladies. Becky Taylor opened the scoring putting Cambridge United WFC 1 up on 23 minutes. Cambridge City had it back all square 5 minutes later Bronte Rapley with the goal. Closing minutes of the 1st half and Cambridge United WFC scored twice through Laura Baker then Laura Mills to have a 3-1 lead at the break. Taylor and Mills both scored in the 2nd half to put Cambridge United WFC  5-1 up. Cambridge City captain Grace Stanley pulled a goal back for the home side before Mills scored in the final minute to complete her hat-trick see Cambridge United WFC into another County Cup Final.

ICA Sports Ladies having beaten Riverside Ladies on penalties in the quarter finals of the competition were drawn away to ERWFL Premier Division side Great Shelford Ladies in the semi-finals. Had the lead at half time, Louise Barbour putting ICA Sports Ladies 1 up, Greta Shelford Ladies came back into the tie 2nd half Sophie Hopkins netting twice with Georgia Day also scoring as they went on to win 3-1 to reach the final where they will face Cambridge United WFC again.

 In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Cambridge United WFC Reserves took advantage of ICA Sports Ladies semi-final distraction to win and move back to the top of the league. At home against bottom side Fulbourn Bluebirds, goals from Hayley Turner and Liz Pamplin saw the 3 points won. 

Also in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Netherton United Ladies were at home to Newmarket Town Ladies who were in high spirits with back to back league wins. Yasmin Green gave Netherton United a 1st half lead and they were 2-0 up early into the 2nd half with Shannon Page on target. Newmarket Town pulled a goal back 5 minutes later with new signing Nadine Basson putting the ball home. The points were shared with Yasmin Woodfield getting the goal to make it 2-2 on the 67th minute. Both sides are unbeaten in 3.

   In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North, leaders Bourne Ladies were held to a 3-3 draw at Swineshead Institute Ladies. Were 2-1 down at half time before pulling it level in the 2nd half. both sides having a player sent off, Lycia Elston for Swineshead, Claire Lawrenson for Bourne. Eleanor Spendlow struck twice for Swineshead with their other goal coming from Becky Taylor. Lawrenson scored for Bourne before her sending off, Lisa Richardson and Catherine Dougall also scoring.

  Bourne see their lead reduced to 6 points with 2nd placed March Town United Ladies scoring double figures at home against bottom side, Tydd St Mary Ladies. 4 of their goals put into the back of the net by Shannon Kelly, braces from both, Charley Miller and Adele Munday, Anna Hatcher, Emma Frost and Emma Searle also on the scoresheet in an 11-0 win.  

Stamford Ladies move up into 5th in the Championship North beating 2nd bottom side Hungate Rovers 6-0 at home on Sunday, whilst in the meeting between the 2 Wisbech’s it’s Town Ladies who take the 3 points to move back into 3rd place in the table, away to Wisbech St Marys Ladies, Wisbech Town Ladies won the match 5-1.

 In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, leaders St Ives Town Ladies keep the gap ahead of 2nd placed Park Ladies to 4 points with a large victory at the weekend at home playing Isleham United Ladies. Racking up double figures to boost the goal difference, Sasha Smith netted a hat-trick,  a brace each for Hannah Seymour-Shove ad Georgia Rebane with goals also scored by Molly Berryman Amy Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe and Megan Stow.

Park Ladies keep the pressure on the leaders St Ives Town Ladies, winning themselves at the weekend to keep the gap 4 points with 2 matches in hand. Away taking on Comberton Ladies, Amy Newell, Erin Powell and Danielle Green all scored goals in a 3-0 win. 3-0 was also the winning margin at home for 3rd placed Milton Ladies as they hosted 4th placed Riverside Rovers Ladies. Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes with all 3 goals, Milton Ladies have 4 games in hand on the leaders with the gap 10 points have to play Park Ladies twice and St Ives Town once some big matches coming up.

Essex

Start in Essex with a Cup Final. The Essex Women’s Trophy Final played at Saffron Walden FC this Sunday contested between Wickford Town Ladies & Harlow Ladies both competing in Essex Women’s Division One. Wickford Town Ladies took an early lead Louise Balding putting them 1-0 up inside the opening 12 minutes, the lead didn’t last long Abbie Bensted putting Harlow back on level terms just 2 minutes later. 4 minutes before half-time Bensted lobs the Wickford Town keeper to make it 2-1 at half-time. Early into the 2nd half, Philippa Stephens rounds the keeper to put Harlow 3-1 up, Victoria Hill makes it 4-1 halfway through the 2nd half with Stephens scoring her 2nd goal to seal a 5-1 win and see Harlow Ladies in their 1st season as a club win their 1st piece of silverware and are well on course to make it a league and cup double. 

 In the Essex Women’s Premier Division, leading side Chelmsford City Ladies weren’t in action saw their lead reduced to just a point with 2nd placed Hullbridge Sports Ladies who won big at home playing Walden Ladies recording a 9-1 victory. Both Hullbridge Sports Ladies and Chelmsford City Ladies have 2 league matches left to play. In 3rd Collier Row Tigers aren’t out of it have just the 1 league game left now however a point off Hullbridge Sports Ladies 2 of Chelmsford City won at the weekend beating Hutton Ladies Reserves 3-0 at home. Eastern Avenue are in 4th place with 2 matches left to play can’t catch Chelmsford City Ladies won 3-1 at home to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies at the weekend.

 In Essex Women’s Division One, 2nd placed Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves opened up a 4 point gap over their nearest rivals at home against 3rd placed Chigwell Ladies on Sunday winning 5-0 to boost their promotion hopes, Nicola Hatfield scoring a brace with a goal a piece for Ayo Okunugo, Charlotte Palmer and Laura Kendle. Also in Division One, Hullbridge Sports Ladies Reserves were at home fielded just the 8 players against Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies Reserves, a close scoring match Hullbridge Sports lost out as Little Thurrock took all 3 points winning the game 4-3.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, Sherrardswood Ladies are top of the league 6 points clear of 2nd placed Hertford Town Ladies. Were at home facing 2nd placed Harvesters FC Ladies playing their last league match of the season. Laure Marris, Laura Cousins, Francesca Novelli and Abby Cardall from the penalty spot helped them to victory as they beat Harvesters FC Ladies 4-1. Harvesters FC Ladies slip to 3rd place Megan Kelly reducing the deficit from the penalty spot. 

Hertford Town Ladies move into 2nd in the Beds & Herts Division One table, winning 3-1 at Bishops Stortford Ladies. Bilge Taspinar scoring on 20 minutes for them with Kerry Oldham scoring the other 2 goals in either half. Have 6 games in hand on Sherrardwood Ladies with the gap 6 points. Elle Georgiou with the goal for Bishops Stortford who stay 4th have games in hand on the leaders but can no longer overhaul them their title hopes gone.

 In 5th place Garston Ladies have a huge 8 games to catch up on the leaders with the gap 14 points after they won at the weekend 3-0 away to bottom side Flitwick Ladies. Goals from Gemma Curtis and 2 from Vikki Davis seeing the 3 points won. In the other match in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, Letchworth Garden City Eagles Ladies were 3-1 away winners at 2nd bottom Sandy Ladies.

Onto Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two, leaders Sharnbrook WFC are closing in on an immediate return to Division One. Were at home on Sunday taking on Garston Ladies FC 96 who have games in hand on everyone in the league and 1 of 4 sides in with a chance of promotion. Sharnbrook WFC scored 2 early goals Gemma Franklin and Charlotte Mullins putting them 2 up inside 16 minutes, Garston Ladies FC 96 came back scoring twice to see the points shared, leaves Sharnbrook 4 points clear at the top with 2 to play.

Moving up into 2nd place in Division Two are Hitchin Town Ladies, were away to Watton Ladies on Sunday who scored 3 goals through, Heather Dean, Elizabeth Dowton and Francesca Smithers. It wasn’t enough however with Hitchin Town Ladies hitting back with 4 goals to win the game and take the 3 points, Emma Chaffey with a brace, plus a goal each for Rebecca Day and Kayleigh Saunders. Have played a game more than Houghton Athletic Ladies 2 points behind in 3rd. 

2 goals scored by Louise Grocott plus 1 from Zoe Molloy saw Icknield Ladies retrun to the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend. Moving 3 points clear of Hitchin Belles. It’s still very close at the top games to be played with the top sides still to play one another, Icknield Ladies are in a strong position 4 of their last 5 league games are against their promotion rivals.

A good point earned by Kings Langley Ladies on Sunday at home against Bedmond Ladies who still have faint hopes of sneaking into the top 2. 1-1 the final score Nicole Barrett with Kings Langley Ladies goal. Molly Peters with the strike for Bedmond Ladies. was an 11 goal thriller in the final match to report on The Tuesday Round-Up, Bedwell Rangers FC now unbeaten in 3 with 2 successive wins in the league to pull away from the bottom. Were at home taking on Panshanger Ladies. A dramatic game Jessica Sullivan put Bedwell 1-0 inside 10 minutes. Georgina Harvey levelled it at 1-1 for Panshanger Ladies on the half hour mark. Bedwell scored 2 late 1st half goals through Sullivan and Sarah King to go in 3-1 up at half-time. Chemise Huitson pulled Panshanger not only back into the game but the lead as she scored a 13 minute hat-trick in the 2nd half. Claire McNally got it back to 4-4 for Bedwell 12 minutes from time only for them to concede and own goal fall behind 2 minutes later. King struck again with 3 minutes left to make it 5-5. 90 minutes on the clock and Leah Tomlin scored for Bedwell Rangers to see them edge the encounter 6-5 and take all 3 points.

What a game to finish Edition Twenty Seven of The Tuesday Round-Up, one more Sunday left in March the clocks go forwards, no one wants to get left behind, so much still to play for a few sides falling away, agony for those that have played out and can only watch. Games in hand is easy getting the points on offer isn’t so straight forwards especially when you can see the finish line. Twists and turns yet the calculator will be working overtime as the league season draws to a close and it’ll all be covered here. Thanks for reading Edition Twenty Seven, do it all again next week.

Match Report – Bury Town Ladies v Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

Match Report – Bury Town Ladies v Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

  A trip to Walsham Le Willows FC to watch a semi-final match in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup contested between Bury Town Ladies and Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies. The incentive not only to reach the final but also the opportunity to play at Portman Road home of Ipswich Town FC.

Bury Town playing their football in the ERWFL Division One East, have made it into their 2nd successive Suffolk Women’s County Cup semi-final and will be hoping to go one better and reach the final this time around. Receiving a bye in the 1st round of the competition. In the 2nd round were drawn away to Suffolk Women’s Division side Witnesham Wasps Ladies won the game with a double figures score 11-0 to make it to the quarter finals where they were drawn at home to the leaders of the Suffolk Women’s Division, East Bergholt United. Another clean sheet winning the match 4-0 to book a spot in the semi-finals.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies formed 2 season’s ago, compete in the Norfolk Women’s Football League, in Division Two where they are undefeated and on course for promotion. Just over the boarder in Suffolk they qualify for the County Cup competition. A bye in the 1st round like Bury Town were drawn at home to Suffolk Women’s Division side Leiston St Margarets Ladies, won big racking up a 14-0 win. Were awarded a home win over Brantham Athletic Ladies in the quarter finals to advance to the semi-finals.

Today’s match is being played at a neutral ground, Walsham Le Willows FC. A multi-purpose sports ground that has seen some and has on going renovation work a new seated stand along one side of the pitch between the dugouts. A good sized clubhouse in one corner. Pitch looked a little worn in places but is that stage of the season has seen alot of football. A bright dry day few clouds around, got all the way here and realised I’d left my coat at home, good job it was the start of spring.

  Bury Town Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Osborne, Jennifer Grey, Mia Banbury, Laura Bloomfield, Lisa Pratt (C), Norma Locker, Kate Silva, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Shelly Cocksedge, Laura Brame & Gemma Carter
  subs – Steph Hanratty & Shelby Beveridge.

  Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies starting XI – Shauna Brunton-O’Neill, Peta Belson, Maria Palmer, Nikki Wigg (C), Sue-Lyn King, Samantha Brown, Gemma Farman, Jodie Fewkes, Jody Wells, Sophie Martin & Selina Rowland.
  subs – Sarah Meades, Lisa Sissen & Jordan Harris.

                                                      (roll on roll off substitutes)

   Both teams usually play in blue, virtually identical kits, unfortunately this hadn’t been communicated to either team before the game. A solution was found Kirkley & Pakefield would done the Walsham Le Willow FC men’s shirts, red in colour with yellow trim with yellow sock tape placed around their blue socks and it’s Kirkley & Pakefield to kick off the 1st half.

Is a quiet opening to the match the play congested in the middle 3rd over on the far side of the pitch to the stand. Both sides trying to release players down the channels, Bury play it long with Laura Brame making the run on the left, looks to thread a diagonal ball across the area for Gemma Carter on the opposite side, reaching the ball tries to cut it back across the six yard box before it runs out of play slices it behind for a goal kick.

                              Kirkley & Pakefield’s Peta Wilson modelling their improvised oversized kit

Bury are enjoying more of the ball early on as Kirkley & Pakefield get used to playing in red, Selina Rowland plying through the centre is the focal point of their attack Gemma Farman looks to send her through on goal centrally, Bury central defender Laura Bloomfield is on her shoulder goes to ground to make the tackle and wins the ball back.

A spot of head tennis inside the Kirkley & Pakefield half sees the ball put over the top of the defence with Brame racing clear after the ball, goalkeeper Shauna Brunton-O’Neill is out to the edge of her area gets there 1st to kick clear. Brame has the ball out left in the next attack getting to the byline her attempted cross is deflected behind for a corner kick. Swung in towards the far post the target Norma Locker rising to meet the ball clatters into Kirkley & Pakefield captain Nikki Wigg as she meets it the referee stopping play Wigg needing treatment, but is able to return to the pitch.

Kirkley & Pakefield are starting to get themselves into the contest, counter attack with Jodie Fewkes bringing the ball out from the back up the left has Rowland coming across offering support the throw is won taking quickly releasing Rowland up the right wing drives on with the ball crosses it in towards the near post, Bloomfield racing back intercepts puts it behind for a corner kick.

Much of the play is taking place on the far side of the pitch the right for Bury as they bring it forwards winning a throw the ball is played in field before being launched in towards the far side of the area, Kate Silva is wide left for Bury runs onto the ball into the area going away from goal does well to cut a shot back in towards the post rising, Brunton O’Neill has got across to cover the angle and is well placed to make the save holds onto the ball.

Kirkley& Pakefield break the ball put into Rowland inside the Bury half turns inside the circle and takes on the bury defence, shifts the ball between her feet left, right travels to the edge of the area then pulls the trigger the ball arrows in towards goal rising Charlotte Osborne keeping goal for Bury is beaten the ball smashes against the crossbar and bouncing down doesn’t cross the line, Sophie Martin racing up the left for Kirkley & Pakefield tries to get to the on the follow up, Jennifer Grey is back with her wins the tackle for Bury.

The bar is rattled again moments later, Kirkley & Pakefield breaking up another Bury attack bring the ball out into Rowland, tries to help the ball on with Jody Wells making the run in midfield to get beyond her Bury get bodies in the way of the ball however it is deflected out to the left side with Martin in the clear, Osborne had started to come the the edge of her area sensing the threat through the middle is back peddling as Martin takes on the shot 25 yards out, flies over the keeper strikes the crossbar and bounces back into Osborne’s gloves as the keeper gathers.

After Bury’s early dominance on the ball, Kirkley & Pakefield have grown into the game and it has become a much more even contest. Playing the ball out from the back left side Bury captain Lisa Pratt sends Silva away down the left wing taking the ball into the corner shifts it to get half a yard on her marker before delivering a cross into the six yard box, Carter making a great run far post, Brunton-O’Neill gets down in front of her to claim the ball.

Everyone is inside the Bury half bar Brunton-O’Neill as Kirkley & Pakefield win a series of throws on the right, the ball is put into the centre, cleared back to Wigg just over the halfway line her pass forwards clears everyone puts Rowland through springing the offside trap to run in towards the area get after it, Osborne races out towards the edge of her area sliding in saves at the strikers feet.

Bury taking the ball up the right win a corner. The ball is flighted in towards the near post side of goal for Locker to meet 10 yards out, rising heads the ball down into the ground, on target bouncing up Brunton-O’Neill saves, flicks her left hand out to turn the ball wide for another corner, this one towards the far side is defended.

Brunton-O’Neill has to make another save off her own player this time around with Carter carrying the ball on down the right side again for Bury, lifts a high ball into the box near post, Wigg is under it heads the ball up into the air going behind her is in danger of dropping down centrally just under the bar, Brunton-O’Neill keeps her eye on it touches it over the bar.

Bury’s turn to hit the crossbar, build up on the right again Carter with Gabrielle Whitehurst moving the ball down the channel the pass is cut back into the middle of the park with Mia Banbury racing to get onto the end of the ball 25 yards out connects well the ball flies towards goal, nothing Brunton-O’Neill can do except watch it sail past, smashes against the bar down into the area, Fewkes getting to it 1st before it can be turned home out for a corner.

  GOAL! 5 minutes before half-time and the dead lock is broken. Bury win another corner kick on the right. The ball is send in head head height in towards the front of the area the target is Locker coming towards the ball meets it with a bullet header that flies into the back of the net 1-0.

                                                            Norma Locker scores the opener for Bury

Late attack for Kirkley & Pakefield with Fewkes charging up the pitch wins the ball in the middle and lays it out to the right into space with Rowland calling for it, 25 yards out looks to drive towards the area its the shot early, Bloomfield getting across the line of the ball turns it behind for a corner. The ball is fired into the area a chest height angling across the six yard box, Osborne isn’t distracted by Fewkes closing in on her as she sees the ball comfortably into her midriff.

                            Half-time Bury Town Ladies 1-0 Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

  A good contest in the 1st half 2 sides working hard play has been congested to the right ending up out of play inside the roped off cricket square for the groundsman’s liking. Both sides have hit the woodwork with stinging strikes, Bury have targeted Locker with almost every corner eventually one paid of as she got the goal to give them the slender advantage going into the 2nd half.
  Bury to kick off the 2nd half make a change at half-time with Locker the player coming off, Shelly Beveridge coming on takes up a central attacking role. Kirkley & Pakefield defender Sue-Lyn King winning the ball brings it out from the back laying her pass into Wells on half way she is tripped as she looks to release Rowland through the centre the referee brings it back for the free kick with no advantage on offer. Wells plays the free kick long into the box, Martin gets onto the ball but has strayed offside.
  Martin turns provider of Rowland in Kirkley & Pakefield’s next attack threading the ball through the Bury defence to put Rowland clear to attack the area coming in from the left side trying to hit across the ball on the run slices it into the side netting. Bury make a 2nd change with Shelly Cocksedge coming off, Steph Hanratty coming on.
  Wigg has been clattered inside the box again needing treatment Kirkley & Pakefield make a change Peta Wilson coming off with Jordan Harris coming on joining the defence. Brame attacks down the left side for Bury getting in behind her marker taking on the eraly shot from the corner of the area pulls it wide of the near post. Brame on the ball again carries the ball into the area this time getting closed down puts her foot on the ball and turning looks to hit the ball in across goal for Beveridge to head home, plays it too close to Brunton-O’Neill who claims the ball.
  Farman puts a fantastic ball through the middle dissecting the Bury defence with Rowland racing through in behind into the area Osborne comes towards her one on one Rowland looks to lift the ball around the keeper with the outside of her boot, drops to the floor with her head in her hands as the ball rolls agonisingly wide of the post.
  Kirkley & Pakefield introduce Lisa Sissen to the action with Martin having a rest. Bury have Kirkley & Pakefield stretched a quick build up through the middle see’s Whitehurst put the ball up into Beveridge 20 yards out back to goal holding it up Brame makes a run for her on the left side rolls the ball into her path Brame sends the cross/shot along the six yard box, no one following in far post the ball rolls wide out of play. Cocksedge returns to the field for Bury with Bloomfield off.
  Wells is playing closer to Rowland up top now the two linking well causing Bury some problems, Wells looks to pass the ball into the box for Rowland peeling around the back of the Bury defence edge of the area, the initial pass is cut out but still squirms in behind, Rowland is after it the angle against her goes to shoot put the ball across the face of goal runs out the far side.
 
  GOAL! Just under 20 minutes left and Kirkley & Pakefield get themselves back on level terms. The ball is played out from a Bury goal kick doesn’t get much clearance is won back 25 yards out and prodded forwards Wells is onto it racing clear to attack the area hits it early low and hard into the bottom corner of the net 1-1.
 
                                           Jody Wells races through to equalise for Kirkley & Pakefield
 
 Bury have to deal with a spell of Kirkley & Pakefield pressure heads up after scoring the goal win a series of corners that are defended, Bury finally get the ball back into their opponents half winning a throw on the right the ball is played across the middle lofted up into Cocksegde central she slices her shot 20 yards out the ball spins wide to Silva she hits it in towards goal King gets across to clear.
  Bury are conceding a few free kicks in the middle and this is giving Wells the opportunity to launch it in towards the area, the target this time is Rowland looking to peel in behind as the ball drops, Brame gets in across her run to intercept the ball, clear the area for Bury. Late on Rowland and Wells have switched with the no 8 moving into the more advanced role. Rowland puts the ball through with Bury pushed up on half way far too much for Wells to do to reach the ball before Osborne can come out get to it 1st.
  Into the last 5 minutes of normal time, Bloomfield is back on for taking the place of Pratt as they switch to 3 at the back. Brilliant save from Osborne late on to keep Bury in the game as the ball is won in the middle Farman putting Rowland away through the centre, Banbury is win her but can’t foul as they enter the box, Osborne having initially started to come back onto her line as Rowland shoots throws out a glove to her right to turn the shot around the post for a corner kick. The corner is swept in long towards the far post Wigg up from the back rises but turns the ball behind with her header.
  That’s it the referee brings an end to the 90 minutes and the semi-final heads into extra-time.
                                                                      Extra Time

  It’s Bury who get the extra half hours play underway. Bury have the early ball but can’t find the final ball into the area. Kirkley & Pakefield bring it out from the back a rapid counter move Fewkes putting the ball into Rowland’s feet has Wells already on the move behind her looks to put the ball into her run, Bury’s Hanratty lunges and cuts out the pass.
Kirkley & Pakefield bring Wilson back on with Harris coming off. Bury have increased their tempo, the game has an urgency to it both sides are looking to score in extra-time. Sissen is put away down the left for Kirkley & Pakefield her cross too close to Osborne the keeper gathers. Sissen comes off with Martin going back on.
  Cool as you like from Brunton-O’Neill on her goal line as Bury’s, Carter whips in a cross from the right a high ball with Beveridge and Silva running in either post in between the goalkeeper palms it down with one glove and gathers the bouncing ball. The 1st period of extra time comes to an end.
  Kirkley & Pakefield get the 2nd period underway. Pratt is back on for Bury who attack down the right Carter twisting and turning works the ball free for the cross squares it in for Beveridge, but Brunton-O’Neill gets in front of her to pluck the ball down.
  Few players starting to cramp up. Wigg has been clattered all match, is a little more serious can’t continue, Sarah Meades comes on. Kirkley & Pakefield have a free kick on half way the ball is played early with Martin away on the left side coming inside looking to get onto the end of it as it drops in the area, Osborne gets to it 1st Martin collides with her accidentally the keeper down keeps hold of the ball. Martin again for Kirkley & Pakefield rolls her marker on the left and drives with the ball down the line crosses into Rowland inside the box left sweeps her cross along the sx yard box Wells is there to head it in far post but is flagged offside even as Osborne saves it.
 
  GOAL! Another free kick is given away by Bury wide on the right half way inside their half, Wells over the ball sends it in towards the near post bouncing across the six yard box Kirkley & Pakefield have runners coming in and one of those is Sophie Martin who connects to turn the ball home and give Kirkley & Pakefield the lead with barely 4 minutes of time left on the clock 1-2.

                                                    Sophie Martin wins the game for Kirkley & Pakefield

  Defend like crazy for the closing minutes Bury can’t get hold of the ball haven’t much time left hold out and celebrate as they win the game 2-1 in extra-time to go through to the Final of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup and the fantastic opportunity to step out and play at Portman Road.

A good contest for 2 hours both side battled hard, work rate was superb a late extra-time winner the difference.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies will face current holders Ipswich Town ladies after they beat AFC Sudbury Ladies 1-0 in extra-time themselves to go through to the Portman Road Final scheduled for Monday 23rd May with a 7pm KO. I will be there.

Congratulations to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies and best of luck in the final. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today.

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Twenty Six

Sunday 13th March

Welcome to Edition Twenty Six of The Tuesday Round-Up bringing you all of the women’s football action across the East from Sunday 13th March. For a change it was for the the large part a dry and pleasant day throughout the region with just a handful of matches ending up getting postponed. Plenty to bring you 50+ games taking place, the FA Women’s Cup seeing a replayed match. Cup and Plate semi-finals and quarter finals in Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. Two more unbeaten records fell as lot’s of goals were scored. News sadly of another club folding now 3 in as many weeks as the title races continue to see twists and turns, lots to bring you so let’s plunge into the action.

FA Women’s Cup

  You’d be forgiven for thinking we’ve been here before, a game from the FA Women’s Cup, 4th Round Proper, all the ties had been played hadn’t they? Well sadly due to an admin error one had to be replayed as Brighton & Hove Albion WFC faced Blackburn Rovers Ladies for the 2nd time of asking. The FAWPL Northern Division side making the long journey down to the south coast once again after Brighton made the error of having 7 substitutes named on their bench when FA Women’s Cup competition rules state just 5 will be named on the bench.

Ainsley Strickland gave Blackburn Rovers Ladies the perfect start opening the scoring after just 3 minutes, but that was just the beginning of a frantic opening quarter of an hour as Brighton were back on level terms just 2 minutes later Lily Agg with the goal, 2 minutes later they had the lead Lucy Somes scoring to put them 2-1 ahead. On the 15 minute mark Sophie Perry scored from the penalty spot to make it 3-1 the half time score. Strickland found the back of the net again 10 minutes into the 2nd half pulling it back to 3-2 before Kate Natkiel’s goal on 70 minutes restored the 2 goal cushion a 5th goal scored by Lisa Fulgence sealing the result in the closing minutes winning the tie 5-2 this time around Brighton & Hove Albion WFC will be at home this following Sunday in the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup, Sporting Club Albion Ladies the visitors.

FAWPL Southern Division

In the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday a point won at home was enough to see Cardiff City Ladies move up from 5th to 3rd in the table. Playing their 1st league fixture since the last weekend of January they were at home with West Ham United Ladies the visitors. Kerry Bartlett gave Cardiff the lead on 20 minutes, the scores were level going into half-time thanks to Laura Curtis who made it 1-1 for West Ham United Ladies on the half hour mark. The visitors went on to take the lead 10 minutes in to the 2nd half captain Katie Bottom scoring for the 2nd successive match. Cardiff City Ladies came back to earn a point as Michelle Green netted to make it 2-2 with 15 minutes left to play.

 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women were also playing their 1st league fixture in a month and close the gap on leaders Brighton & Hove Albion WFC to 6 points with 2 matches in hand. Got the 3 points away from home taking on Lewes Ladies.  The 1st half ended goalless, a single strike was to win the match, midway through the 2nd half striker Gemma Shepherd was brought down just outside the box, up stepped Stefanie Simmons to take the resulting free kick sent the ball home into the corner of the net to score and give Charlton Athletic Women all 3 points.

 A single goal was enough to win all 3 points too for Queens Park Rangers Ladies at home playing C&K Basildon Ladies. Joanne Wilson putting the ball into the back of the net in the 1st half, kept C&K Basildon at bay for the rest of the game to make it 4 straight wins in the league the run starting back in December before an extended run of cup matches saw them resume their league program at the end of February now up to 8th are almost certain of retaining their FAWPL Southern Division status for another season.

After having most of the chances under the floodlights at The Boleyn ground last Tuesday night and ending up with nothing against West Ham United Ladies as they won the game 1-0, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies were back in league action travelling to the South West to play bottom side Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Still missing a few players through injury, Tottenham got off to a fantastic start Kelley Blanchflower scoring within the opening 2 minutes. A brace from Wendy Martin scoring on the 12th and 25th minute saw them tae a 3-0 lead into the dressing room at half time. Amber Pollock pulled a goal back for Plymouth Argyle Ladies on 63 minutes. Bianca Baptiste having just come onto the pitch as a 2nd half substitute restored the 3 goal cushion netting on 65 minutes. Martin had chances to score her hat-trick but the ball wouldn’t cross the line. Pollock scored again with 20 minutes left on the clock the final score 2-4 to Tottenham as they consolidate 6th spot. Plymouth Argyle Ladies are all but relegated now matter what they do now 1 more point gained by Lewes Ladies will see them down.

FAWPL South East Division One

Crystal Palace Ladies stretch their unbeaten league season to 14 games to stay top of the FAWPL Southern Division. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Old Actonians Ladies who haven’t picked up a league point in 2016. That search goes on as they lost to the leaders 5-0, Gemma Bryan on target twice, with goals also scored by Pamela McRoberts, Freya Holdaway and substitute Alma Donohoe.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies keep up the chase in 2nd place the gap still a point behind Crystal Palace Ladies albeit having played 3 league games more. Were at home at Newport Pagnell FC with Denham United Ladies the visitors, took the early lead Helen Capewell putting them a goal in front just past the quarter hour mark. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies got themselves back on level terms going into the break with Andie Dickens heading home to make it 1-1. Looked like the match was heading for a draw before Milton Keynes found the winning goal 8 minutes from time Hannah Barrett scoring to see the 3 points won.

Gillingham FC Ladies are up to 3rd in the table climbing above Cambridge United WFC and their opponents this Sunday 4th placed Luton Town Ladies. At home at Chatham Town FC they saw their opponents reduced to 10 players on the half hour as Zara Carroll was sent off for a 2nd bookable offence. Luton Town Ladies kept the scores 0-0 until half-time. Early in the 2nd half Gillingham FC Ladies had a chance to take the lead Lauren Davies brought down inside the box the referee pointing to the penalty spot, Shannon Redhouse to take it saw her effort saved. by Luton Town goalkeeper Rachel Evans. On the 60th minute Gillingham FC Ladies did take the lead Kallie Balfour breaking beyond the defence to score. Luton Town Ladies battled hard to get back into the match, Balfour netting her 2nd of the game, Lauren Davies made it 3-0 with 15 minutes left on the clock, Lauren Williams making the final score 4-0 in the last 5 minutes.

 Elsewhere in the FAWPL South East Division One it was derby day with Ipswich Town Ladies hosting rivals Norwich City Ladies both comfortable in the middle of the table, Ipswich Town Ladies having been enjoying a good run of form 5 matches unbeaten 4 wins in that run that had started back in January with a 3-2 away win against Norwich. Travelling to Felixstowe & Walton FC, Norwich City Ladies started the better side Chelsea Garrett putting them 1 up inside the opening 15 minutes, captain Kate Parsons doubled the advantage 3 minutes later then a further 3 minutes on Garrett scored her 2nd of the game to give the visitors a 3-0 lead at half-time. Garrett completed her hat-trick early into the 2nd half before Ipswich Town Ladies fought themselves back into the game pulling it back to 4-3 with Molly Hall netting twice, captain Amanda Crump with their other goal not enough as Norwich move back above Ipswich into 5th in the table.

 One other match to bring you in the FAWPL South East Division One, Enfield Town Ladies travelled up to the Suffolk coast to play Lowestoft Town Ladies, the score was 1-1 all at half-time before the visitors went on to score 4 more goals in the 2nd half to win 5-2, their goals coming from Holly Brandon, Victoria Lewis Ayse Mustafa and 2 scored by Alena Beganovic. Gemma Moore with a 1st half penalty for Lowestoft Town Ladies whilst Abbie Everson scored in the final minute.

Eastern Regional Leagues

 In the ERWFL Premier Division 3rd placed AFC Sudbury Ladies close the gap in the leading pair with a 3-2 away win against Acle United Ladies on Sunday. Stacey Teager gave AFC Sudbury Ladies the lead but they were pegged back to 1-1 with player coach Joanne Hooper scoring 10 minutes before half-time. The visitors responded Skye Ramsey putting them back in front 6 minutes before half-time, the lead was extended after the break with Teager scoring her 2nd goal of the match. Acle United Ladies pushed hard to get back into the match, pulled a goal back late on in injury time Jody Wells scoring on her debut for the club, wasn’t enough as AFC Sudbury held on for all 3 points, move to with a point of 2nd placed Stevenage Ladies who do have 3 games in hand a 4 behind leaders Billericay Town Ladies who have played one more than AFC Sudbury Ladies.

Colchester Town Ladies ran out 2-0 home winners against 2nd bottom side Great Shelford Ladies on Sunday, Paige Wakefield and captain Alexandra Brewis-Shephard the players getting their names on the scoresheet. Elsewhere it was only the 2 league victory of the season this Sunday for bottom side Great Wakering Rovers Ladies, the previous one coming back in November 2015. Were on the road taking on Essex rivals Brentwood Town Ladies. Rebecca Dalgarno scored a hat-trick in the match with Sarah Murphy also scoring as they won the match 4-2 to move level on points with Great Shelford. Chelcee Grimes and Jessica Mills on target for Brentwood Town Ladies who have now lost 4 league matches in a row.

   Elsewhere in the ERWFL it was another round of group matches in the Division One Cup. In Group A, Bury Town Ladies were at home against Writtle Ladies, Laura Brame put the home side ahead before Writtle pulled it back to 1-1 at half-time. The visitors put in a strong 2nd half performance Sophie Vale netting a hat-trick as they went on to win the match 6-1 their other goal scorers, Courtney Clarke, Charlotte Walker and captain Abigail Fry as they move above Little Thurrock Dynamos to top the group. Also in Group A Hutton Ladies pick up their 1st win in the group stage at home beating Ipswich Wanderers Ladies, hitting 7 goals without reply.

  In Group B of the ERWFL Division One Cup, Hoddesdon Owls Ladies end leaders Offley & Stopsley Ladies 100% winning start to the group and move up to 3rd place in the group as a result winning 3-0 at home, Daniela Martucci, Becky Scola and Natasha Crick with the goals to give them victory. Are kept from 2nd spot by Colney Heath Ladies whose fine form in the Division One Cup continues having a 100% win record themselves now 3 wins out of 3 to join Offley & Stopsley Ladies on 9 points. Colney Heath Ladies were playing away this Sunday against Royston Town Ladies all the goals came in the 1st half, Royston Town Ladies took an early lead but were soon pegged back Holly Sheridan with the goal, went 2-1 down before Sheridan scored again to make it 2-2 then went on to complete her hat-trick the half-time score 3-2 to Colney Heath Ladies was the final score at the finish. Getting their 1st win in Group B are Silver End United Ladies fresh from reaching the final of the ERWFL League Cup. Were at home taking on Long Melford Ladies, Lynsey Bowman, Alexandra Bailess and Rebecca Hollocks all scored to see them take the 3 points in a 3-2 victory to lift them up to 4th on 4 points.

   One piece of sad new to bring you from the ERWFL and it’s a 3rd team in as many weeks dropping out of the league with West Billericay Ladies no longer listed in the fixtures or league table. Have seen alot of matches postponed throughout the season and looked like it might be on the cards still sad to see and send best wishes to everyone involved with West Billericay Ladies for the future. 

Norfolk

In Norfolk it was an important weekend for the Ladies League Cup and Plate competitions as they reach the semi-final and quarter final stages representatively. In the Ladies League Cup in was a dress rehearsal for the upcoming Women’s County Cup Final with Aylsham FC Ladies at home taking on Thorpe United Ladies in the semi-finals of the League Cup. Thorpe United Ladies looked in control as they took a 3 goal lead in the 1st half, captain Rebekah Lake scored twice with Becky Russell also scoring. Aylsham pulled 1 back before the break then mounted a 2nd half come back scoring 3 times themselves to win the game 4-3 to reach their 2nd final of the season, 2 strikes from Leanne Woodward plus a goal each for Alicia Lacey and Abbie Charlton giving them the victory.

Will face the current League Cup holders in the Final as Wymondham Town Ladies reached their 2nd successive final with a convincing win at home against Lynn Ladies. Amber Cantwell smashing home a hat-trick, with Sally Hammerton, Laura Wiseman and Laura Hammerton also on the scoresheet in a 6-0 win. Further good news announced by Wymondham Town Ladies at the weekend as they are to introduce a 2nd ladies team next season.

It was the quarter finals of the Ladies League Plate competition. North Walsham Angels Ladies are through to the semi-finals the Division Two promotion chasers beating Division One side Bungay Town Ladies at home by 7 goals to 3 on Sunday. Amy Hemp scoring along with Hope Middleton who netted a brace, she was out done by Luci Middleton who was on target for 4 goals. Bungay Town Ladies 3 goals were scored by Inna Marx, Michelle Stanborough and Lauren Purling. 

North Walsham Angels Ladies were out done in the scoring tally by fellow Division Two side Red Rose Ladies in 1 of the 2 all Division Two quarter finals away to Bohemians Ladies. Red Rose Ladies progressing to the semi-finals courtesy of an 8-2 win had 8 different goal scorers too with, Corine Bishop, Lauren Hems, Emily Hill, Vicky Lubbock, Ellen Hutton, and Sophie Lubbock all scoring along with Sophie Tipper and Natasha Wilmott who both scored from the penalty spot. 

 In the other all Division Two Ladies League Plate quarter final Sprowston Ladies were at home at the Open Academy taking on Stalham Town Ladies. Elizabeth Dawson and Marie Meale put the ball in the back of the net for Stalham Town Ladies to put them through to the semi-finals. It was Division Three v Division Two in the last Ladies League Plate quarter final with Division Three leaders Harleston Ladies at home against Division Two struggler’s Morley Ladies. After 90 minutes played the match was still goalless entered an extra 30 minutes of play saw 4 goals scored, Harleston Ladies scoring through Charlotte Evans, however Morley Ladies hit the back of the net 3 times, Emily Blanchflower with 2, Rebecca Humphreys also scoring to win the match in extra-time 3-1 to complete an all Norfolk Women’s Division Two, League Plate semi-final line-up the draw to be announced.

 There was also some league action in Norfolk this Sunday in Norfolk in Division Three with the 4 clubs in the bottom half of the table all playing. Bottom side Cromer Town Ladies had just 9 players as they hosted Dereham Town Ladies to Cabbell Park, the visitors having the numerical advantage took a 3-0 lead into half-time adding a 4th goal in the 2nd half to take the 3 points. Sprowston Ladies Reserves were at home playing Toftwood Ladies the points were shared the match ending 2-2, Katie Hart with both the goals for Toftwood Ladies. 

Was a 3rd match in Division Three between 3rd and 4th at the weekend between Red Rose United and Freethorpe Ladies however the game was abandoned with Red Rose United leading 4-0 on 56 minutes due to a broken goal stanchion.

Suffolk

The title battle in the Suffolk Women’s Division took another twist this Sunday as the leaders East Bergholt United lose and 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies capitalise winning against another title hopeful to close the gap at the top to a point with a game in hand. 

 East Bergholt United Ladies were at home, Witnesham Wasps Ladies the visiting team this Sunday they were 3-0 in front going into half-time Lauren Page, Emily Steward and Beth Welton with their goals. East Bergholt United pulled a goal back in the 2nd half but Witnesham Wasps Ladies held on for the win to climb a place up to 4th in the table.

Brantham Athletic Ladies had moved back into 2nd in the table last weekend were at home this Sunday for the 1st of 2 matches against 4th placed Copleston Ladies that could go along way to determining where the title may go, games in hand Copleston Ladies can catch everyone above them if they win the points. Instead it was Brantham Athletic Ladies who got the 3 points, Danielle Harvey scoring twice with a goal each for Kirsten Hutchings and Rebecca Prime as they win 4-1. Sophie Crane scoring for Copleston who drop to 5th now 9 points behind Brantham 10 behind East Bergholt United still enough games in hand to catch both very much all to play for still if they can get the points.

One other match in Suffolk battle of the bottom two with Leiston St Margarets Ladies 2nd bottom hosting Ipswich Phoenix Ladies both a long way from the title tussle above Leiston St Margarets Ladies made it a league double over Ipswich Phoenix winning 5-0 to gain their 2nd 3 point haul of the season leave Ipswich Phoenix win less after 11 played.

Cambridgeshire

In Cambridgeshire the race for the title in the Women’s Premiership is as hotly contested as any league in the region. The lead has changed hands several times with 4 teams slugging it out at the top. ICA Sports Ladies are the new leaders going top this Sunday and ending Cambridge City Ladies unbeaten record to do it as they met in a 3rd versus 4th clash at the weekend. ICA Sports Ladies winning the game 3-1 with striker Tash Applegate getting 2 more goals to her name with Louise Burgess also on target as they go 2 points clear at the top of the Premiership. Cambridge City Ladies captain Grace Stanley scored their goal as they suffer their 1st league defeat of the season. Have 3 games in hand on the leading trio still, very much wide open this one’s got a few more twists yet.

Netherton United Ladies were at home at The Grange, this Sunday, bottom side Fulbourn Bluebirds the visitors had just the 9 players available a tough ask against a Netherton United side which has rediscovered some form in recent weeks. wasn’t long before they had the lead Yasmin Green opening the scoring inside the opening 15 minutes, Sasha Haw doubling the score a couple of minutes later. Jenna Hairn made it 3-0 on the half hour. Michela Garner pulled a goal back for Fulbourn Bluebirds 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Megan Strickland restored Netherton United’s 3 goal cushion on 63 minutes. Fulbourn Bluebirds pulled it back to 4-2 on the 70 minute mark Sharron Pinner finding the back of the net, inside the final 10 minutes Green netted her 2nd goal of the game to win it 5-2.

Wins are like buses for Newmarket Town Ladies, you wait for ages to get one then two arrive! Got their 1st win in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership last Sunday 3-1 away to Bar Hill Ladies. Were at home at the Dullingham Polo Fields this Sunday, hosting Huntingdon Town Ladies who were once again without a full complement of players. Newmarket Town Ladies had a new signing making her debut a coup as they bring in Nadine Basson from Bury Town Ladies dropping back into county league football but with a club who are ambitious and are looking to progress in the coming seasons. Made an instant impact scoring 4 goals in the match. 4 more goals were scored by Dominika Szary, one with her left foot, one with her right and 2 headers plus a goal each for Sian Tatum and Kristen Hummel in a 10-1 victory. Sophie Marheineke on target from a free kick to score for Huntingdon Town Ladies.

Semi-finals weekend in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup this Sunday too although just the one semi-final was to be played in the end, current holders Cambridge United WFC Reserves progressing to the final without kicking a ball as they were awarded a home win against Isleham United Ladies who couldn’t raise a team.

90 minutes of football did take place in the other semi-final a meeting between Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North and South with Park Ladies from competing in the South at home to Wisbech Town Ladies in the North Division. Wisbech Town Ladies will be contesting Cambridge United WFC Reserves for the Junior Invitation Cup after they won the match 3-0, Sophie Gutteridge and Kyra Clarke their goal scorers plus an Park Ladies own goal giving them a 3-0 win, date and final venue to be announced.

 One game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with 3rd placed March Town United Ladies away to Stamford Ladies. A single goal scored by Stamford Ladies in the 2nd half saw them take all 3 points. 

 One match also played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South at the weekend. saw leaders St Ives Town Ladies back in league action after nearly a month have saw their lead at the top eroded by the chasing pack in recent weeks but got themselves back to winning ways on Sunday away to Comberton Ladies. 2 goals scored by Connie Liddiard saw St Ives Town Ladies edge the game winning 2-1 to restore a 4 point lead at the top over Park Ladies. Megan Jeray the player on target for Comberton Ladies.

Essex

In the Essex Women’s Premier Division all of the top 3 sides won big to pull away from the chasing teams below at the weekend. Leaders Chelmsford City Ladies were on the road at Walden Ladies. Lisa Overall bagged herself a hat-trick, Georgia Sleep scoring a brace with one more goal coming courtesy of Rosie Coe. Walden Ladies scored a goal for for both sides the final score 7-1.

 7-1 was also the score between 3rd placed Collier Row Tigers and bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. In 2nd place Hullbridge Sports Ladies were away playing Lawford Ladies, Brogan Kelly was on target on 4 occasions with Danni Dorrington and Christina Fragnito also scoring, Lawford making a fight of it scoring 3 goals themselves final score 6-3 to Hullbridge Sports Ladies.

In Essex Women’s Division One it wasn’t unlucky 13 for runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies as they made it 13 league wins in a row beating 4th placed Alresford Colne Rangers at the Harlow Arena on Sunday, Riley Bennett and Angela Addison scoring to put them 2 goals to the good at half-time. Both Abbie Bensted and Teresa Addison scored 2nd half hat-tricks with Tia Dye rounding off the scoring in a 9-0 win. 

Another huge defeat for bottom side Waltham Forest Ladies as their goals against goes above -200, they keep going were soundly beaten again at home with Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies Reserves the visitors beating them 22-0.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

   The 1st Final of the 2015/16 season was in Hertfordshire the Women’s County Cup Final played between Stevenage Ladies (the current holders) and Watford Ladies Development U19’s. Two evenly matched sides on paper with similar records playing at the same level in the regional league set up, both with the opportunity of making it a league and cup double. The weather perfect for a Cup Final at the County Ground in Letchworth. Stevenage started the brighter however Watford soon got into their flow both sides moving the ball well looking to attack and create chances the 1st half ending goalless. Stevenage pushed hard at the start of the 2nd half looking to break the deadlock, it was Watford who took the lead following a strong run on the ball from midfielder, Aimee Durn towards the edge of the Stevenage penalty box, the ball is laid back to Chloe Farrell making a supporting run pulls the trigger 20 yards out lifting the ball up to smash against the cross bar and drop down over the line. Less than 15 minutes left and Watford double their lead a long back putting Emma Bebbington through on goal shoots outside the box putting the ball past the advancing keeper and into the back of the net. Watford Ladies Development U19’s go on to win the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final. The whole match report is available to read on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and you can find it by clicking on the link below

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final 2015/16 

 Elsewhere in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire at the weekend it was league action and for the 2nd Sunday in a row 2nd placed Sherrardswood Ladies had the opportunity to go top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One against the same opponents they played last Sunday 3rd placed Hertford Town Ladies, were beaten then at home as Hertford Town Ladies extended their unbeaten record in the league to 8 matches. Were at home against Sherrardswood this Sunday after a goalless 1st half Sherrardswood scored 15 minutes into the 2nd half Rhiana Rose putting the ball into the back of the net. Dee Gilbert pulled Hertford Town Ladies back into the game 10 minutes later and it looked to be heading for a draw when up popped Abby Cardall to score the winner for Sherrardswood Ladies to put them 3 points clear at the top have played alot more games than all their title rivals but bring Hertford Town Ladies unbeaten record to an end.

One side in Beds & Herts Division One with plenty of games on the new leaders are 6th placed Garston Ladies having played just 6 league matches to date. Were on the road at the weekend taking on 4th placed Bishops Stortford Ladies. The home side scored twice in the 2nd half, Sapphire Bennett and Elle Georgiou with the strikes, however Bishops Stortford’s own title ambitions were dealt a blow as Garston hit back winning the match 3-2 with goals scored by Gemma Curtis, Jade Hales and Caroline Tenebaum as they move up a place to 5th are 10 points behind the leaders with 8 matches in hand.

Leaders of Beds & Herts Division Two, Sharnbrook WFC saw their game postponed at the weekend giving an opportunity for the sides below to close the gap. 2nd placed Houghton Athletic Ladies were soundly beaten at Sharnbrook WFC last weekend as they opened up an 8 point lead at the top. That lead has been reduced to 5 points with Houghton Athletic Ladies at bottom side Evergreen Eagles this Sunday. Emma Hawkes scored 4 times as they won the 3 points winning 4-0.

3rd placed Hitchin Town Ladies keep pace with Houghton Athletic Ladies a point behind them scoring 4 themselves this Sunday away to Royston Town Ladies Reserves. Rebecca Day scoring a brace with a goal each for Emma Chaffey and Chanel Sherriff-Geary. Royston Town Ladies Reserves pulled one goal back through Grace Leslie as they lost 4-1. Like thier 1st team in beds & Herts Women’s Division One, Garston Ladies FC 96 have matches in hand on the sides above them and move up from 6th to 4th this weekend in Division Two with a large 6-0 win at home against Woburn Lionesses. 

With the leading pair not in action in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three it was a chance for 3rd placed Evergreen Ladies and 4th placed Crawley Green Ladies to close the gap on their rivals for promotion. Evergreen Ladies were at home taking on bottom side Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. Goals from Lauren Atkins and Nicola Cairns along with a hat-trick scored by Emily Jones gave them the 5-0 victory and moves them to within 3 points of Icknield Ladies and Hitchin Belles above with a game in hand on Icknield.

Crawley Green Ladies promotion hopes took a dent away from home against Bedwell Rangers FC, despite going a goal up with Jessica McNamara on target, Bedwell Rangers FC hit them for six. Jessica Sullivan and Sarah King giving them a 2-1 lead going into half time both were to score again in the 2nd half with Ailish Beadle hitting a goal home on 78 minutes, Rebecca Moore adding the 6th goal in the final minute to give Bedwell their 1st 3 point haul of 2016.

That concludes another busy Edition of The Tuesday Round-Up midway through March a few sides falling away from the promotion picture, two more sides losing their unbeaten records just the 3 sides now with a 0 in the L column will they hold onto them till the end of the season? Title battles taking new twists, a few more to come as the league season enters the home straight with cup final line-ups being decided, it’ll all be covered by Women’s Football East the calculator working overtime as all the possible scenario’s are worked out, but it’s on the pitch matters will be decided… until next week thanks for reading.

Match Report – Stevenage Ladies v Watford Ladies Development U19’s

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 First Final of the 2015/16 season this weekend in the East, from the County Ground, Letchworth. The Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final. Stevenage Ladies are the current holders of the County Cup, are on course for the title in the ERWFL Premier Division with 4 games in hand on the leaders the gap 3 points, are looking to make it a league and cup double. So too are their opponents today, Watford Ladies Development U19’s top and undefeated in the GLWFL Premier Division not much separating the sides in terms of league placement sets up an intriguing final. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was there to watch see who would lift the Cup for all of the match action click on the link below.

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final 2015/16 

Match Report – West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

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A Tuesday night trip down to the big city for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog a game from the FAWPL Southern Division, West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies. Not just any old league game however but a special occasion for both teams, most so West Ham United Ladies as the match was to be held at The Boleyn Ground, Upton Park. A famous and historic football venue just a handful of games left before West Ham United FC move to the Olympic Stadium. An opportunity for the West Ham United Ladies to don their claret shirts on the hallowed turf, in front of a record crowd too. A great night for all involved click on the link below to take you to the whole match report on the SWF Blog

West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Twenty Five

Sunday 6th March

  Welcome to Edition Twenty Five of The Tuesday Round-Up. The 1st Sunday of March and it was scheduled to be a busy one too. January and February have been awful weather wise and the level of postponed fixtures across the East has been huge, was hoping March would be a little kinder but sadly it wasn’t as a wet start to the weekend saw nearly half of the fixture list kicking there heels once again. Still of the games that were played there were some very important ones taking place the semi-finals of the FAWPL League Plate and ERWFL League Cup. A quarter final in the FAWPL League Cup and several important league matches across the East. Sad news too as another women’s football team has folded. Busy a game on a Tuesday night puts me under pressure to get The Tuesday Round-Up done so let’s get cracking.

   FAWPL League Cup

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies are already into 2 cup finals this season the Ryman Cup and Capital Cup, took another step to potentially reaching a 3rd this Sunday in the quarter finals of the FAWPL League Cup. Faced a tough challenge having drawn FAWPL Southern Division leaders Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. Tottenham were knocked out of the FA Women’s Cup in extra-time last Sunday at home to FAWSL 2 side Aston Villa Ladies that match had took it’s toll with several 1st team regulars unavailable. Brighton too named a youthful side resting a few 1st team regulars themselves.

  The match was played at Brimsdown Rovers FC, both sides created chances but neither could break the deadlock. Late into the match 3 minutes on the clock, Tottenham were awarded a free kick a chance for defender Alex Keown to launch the ball from distance into the Brighton area. Lucia Leon was there to latch onto the ball her 1st stab and goal blocked by Leah Samain making her debut for the Brighton 1st team in goal, however Leon had a 2nd bite to slot the ball home and did scoring the winning goal to put Tottenham Hotspur Ladies into the semi-finals where they will face Nottingham Forest Ladies an away trip to be played Sun 20th March.

FAWPL League Plate

It was the the semi-finals of the FAWPL League Plate being played this weekend. Enfield Town Ladies from the FAWPL South East Division One were at home at The Queen Elizabeth Stadium were the underdogs as they welcomed FAWPL Northern Division side Newcastle United WFC making their 3rd long journey down south for a cup competition had seen off Gillingham FC Ladies from the FAWPL South East Division One in the quarter-finals with a 3-0 away win. Enfield Town Ladies had reached the semi-final beating another FAWPL Northern Division team Loughborough Foxes LFC 1-0.

Newcastle United WFC had chances to take the lead, but so to did Enfield Town Ladies and it was the home side who took the advantage into the break with Alena Beganovic scoring on 39 minutes. It wasn’t until 6 minutes from time before the 2nd goal came, Chloe Bassett drilling the ball home to make it 2-0 to Enfield Town Ladies and send them through to their 1st ever National Final in what is their 30th anniversary season.

  They will be joined in the final by Coventry United Ladies the FAWPL Southern Division side travelling to the South West to play Keynsham Town Ladies from FAWPL South West Division One. The away side got off to a great start Ashleigh Neville scoring to give Coventry the on 6 minutes, 2-0 up after 12 minutes Marie Gauntlett with the goal. Amber Hughes scored on the half hour mark to give Coventry a 3-0 half time lead. The goals continued to come 2nd half Gauntlett getting her 2nd of the match on the 60 minutes with Hughes getting her 2nd a couple of minutes later and own goal put them 6-0 up then 10 minutes from time Hughes completed her hat-trick Coventry winning 7-0 and reaching the League Plate final without conceding a goal.

The FAWPL League Plate Final between Enfield Town Ladies and Coventry United Ladies will be played on Sunday 24th April at Hednesford Town FC.

FAWPL Southern Division

3 matches played in the FAWPL Southern Division all featuring sides at the wrong end of the table. 2nd bottom Forest Green Rovers Ladies were hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies the home side had the advantage at half-time leading 1-0 thanks to an Annie Martin strike. But for the 2nd league game in a row Queens Park Rangers came back from a goal down to win the match, Jo Wilson was brought down inside the Forest Green Rovers a spot kick awarded up stepped Emma Whitter to score and put Queens Park Rangers back on level terms on 60 minutes the winning goal coming 15 minutes from time with Juliette Denny on target to see the 3 points won and Queens Park Ranger climb up to 8th in the table.

Lewes Ladies were also on the road this Sunday away to bottom side Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Defeat last weekend had left Lewes Ladies in 10th spot 6 points above Forest Green Rovers Ladies. Natasha Wells found the back of the net midway through the 1st half to give the visitors a lead at half-time. Paige Walder added another goal on 57 to make it 2-0 the 3 points assured on the 90th minute with Danielle Lane netting, Plymouth Argyle pulled 1 goal back deep into injury time Ezme Wells with the strike, a consolation as Lewes open up a 9 point gap above the relegation zone up to 9th.

With Queens Park Rangers and Lewes Ladies both winning this Sunday that saw West Ham United Ladies drop to 10th in the league. were at home at AFC Hornchurch with 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors getting off to a flyer, Molly Clark scoring in the opening 10 minutes, Leeta Rutherford made it 2-0 shortly after. Ellie Bloomfield getting a goal too midway through the 1st half giving Portsmouth a 3-0 lead at the break. Sarah Kempson was on target twice in the 2nd half the final score 5-1 the win lifting Portsmouth above Cardiff City Ladies and Coventry United Ladies into 3rd place.

FAWPL South East Division One

One fixture survived the weather in FAWPL South East Division One with Gillingham FC Ladies hosting Denham United Ladies at Chatham Town FC. The hoe side found themselves a goal down at 15 minutes after Denham United were awarded a penalty, Alissa Down scoring it to put the visitors ahead held onto the advantage going into the half-time interval. Gillingham FC Ladies came out strong at the start of the 2nd half creating chances before Jade Keogh struck to put them level on 50 minutes, 2 minutes later they had the lead Paige Baker-Carroll scoring one then finding the back of the net 7 minutes later to get her brace put Gillingham 3-1 up. Ten minutes left to play Kallie Balfour netted to make it 4-1 Lydia Wills starting on the bench today came on on in the 73rd minute scored in the final minute to seal a 5-1 win move Gillingham 3 points closer to the teams above them in 5th with games in hand.

Eastern Regional Leagues

The FAWPL League Plate semi-finals weren’t the only ones taking place this weekend, on Sunday it was also the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Cup. Newly promoted from the Essex Women’s Premier Divison, Silver End United Ladies were the underdogs in their semi-final the ERWFL Division One East side drawn at home against Premier Division title hopefuls Stevenage Ladies. After a goalless 1st half, Silver End United went a goal down Jessica Nash scoring for Stevenage Ladies. Silver End United turned it around in the final 5 minutes having worked hard to get back onto level terms, then snatched a last minute winner to take the game 2-1 to reach the final, Rebecca Hollocks the heroine scoring both of the goals.

They will be joined in the ERWFL League Cup final by Colchester Town Ladies after they beat AFC Sudbury Ladies coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller. It’s the featured match from this Sunday on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. Both sides competing in the Premier Division, the game could have gone to either side. It was the away side AFC Sudbury who took the lead midway through the 1st half Stacey Teager turning a cross home at the near post. The lead didn’t last long with Colchester coming back Chelsea Forde bundling the ball over the line after AFC Sudbury fail to clear from a corner. Could have gone into the break with a 2-1 lead were awarded a penalty kick late in the half. Kerry Stimson smashing her powerful shot against the bottom of the post to miss.

The 1st half was lively, nothing compared to the 2nd, Colchester are awarded a 2nd penalty early in the 2nd half as Stimson is brought down running into the box. Paige Wakefield takes this spot kick scores 2-1. Doesn’t take AFC Sudbury long to get it level again a break up the left Sophie Jeffery out muscling Victoria King for the ball drives on into the box and drills a shot across goal comes back off the far post Jeffery’s momentum has carried her into the middle of goal to turn the rebound in. Colchester are soon back in the lead Stimson linking with Alexandra Brewis-Shephard her return ball putting Stimson through on goal to score. Straight from the other end AFC Sudbury get back to 3-3, Teager with her 2nd goal of the game. 10 minutes left the match could go either way Stimson is put through on goal again lifts her shot over the advancing keeper to make it 4-3, hold onto the lead this time and win the game 4-3 to set up a final with Silver End United Ladies. For the whole match report on the SWF Blog ckick on the link below

Colchester Town Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies 06/03/16

 In the ERWFL Premier Division Billericay Town Ladies open up a 3 point gap over Stevenage Ladeis at the top with a big home win against 2nd bottom side Great Shelford Ladies winning the game 6-0 with 5 different goalscorers a brace from Lindsey Morgan was backed up with goals each for Nicola Dunston, Hayley Piggott, Marie Barker and Sarah Bovington have 2 league matches left to play, Stevenage have 4 games in hand.

 4th placed Haringey Borough Women were at home at the weekend taking on Brentwood Town Ladies, ended a run of 4 league matches without a win to get the 3 points this Sunday Stephanie Cooper and Klesha Darroux both on the scoresheet as they beat Brentwood Town Ladies 2-1, Ashley Debnam with their goal.

AFC Dunstable Ladies current run of good form continues now 5 matches unbeaten in 5 league match. Won again this Sunday away to Great Wakering Rovers Ladies. Winning the match 3-1 the goals scored by Charlotte South, Paige Kavanagh and Kemina Webber to lift them 3 points clear in 5th spot in the league table.

 Elsewhere in the ERWFL, the Division One Cup Group Stages continue. In Group A Ipswich Wanderers Ladies record their 1st win in the competition to lift themselves up into 3rd spot in the table, away playing Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Kristie Turner gave them the lead scoring from the penalty spot. A stunning strike from Leah Littlechild got Stevenage back on level terms however Ipswich Wanderers, Tarnya McKew scored in the closing minutes to seal the win.

  Also in Group A the leaders of the ERWFL Division One West and East meet in the Cup, Hutton Ladies at home to Writtle Ladies. The visitors had the better of it scoring twice to win the match 2-0, to move a point behind Group A leader Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. Abigail Fry and Leanne Stubbings the plays to score.

 In Group B, leaders Offley & Stopsley Ladies made it 3 wins out of 3 edging out Royston Town Ladies at home by the odd goal in 7 winning 4-3 to put them 3 points in the lead. Up to 3rd place in the Grouo B table are Hoddesdon Owls Ladies winning their 1st game in the group this Sunday, at home taking on Long Melford Ladies, goals from Rebecca Scola and Daniela Martucci got them the 3 points winning the game 2-0.

Norfolk

Norfolk was hit heavy with the postponements this weekend with only 2 matches surviving. In Norfolk Women’s Division One, 3rd placed Aylsham FC Ladies will look back and wish theirs had fallen foul to the weather too. Were on their travels playing at Kings Meadow against 2nd placed Wymondham Town Ladies, who remain unbeaten in the league with games in hand on leaders Brandon Town Ladies, Sally Hammerton bagged herself a hat-trick with a brace a piece for Kelly Ayers and Amber Cantwell, Laura Hammerton also finding the back of the net in an emphatic 8-0 victory.

Aylsham FC Ladies might have thought conceding 8 goals was bad but it was worse for Morley Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division Two as they were thumped 16-1 at Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies. Nikki Wigg struck to find the back of the net for 5 of the Kirkley & Pakefield goals Jody Wells scored 4, with 3 for Selina Rowland the other goals were shared by Sophie Marti, Gemma Farman, Sue-Lyn King, and Abbie Knights plus an own goal. Candice Halstead got the Morley Ladies goal. Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies stay 2nd a point behind North Walsham Angels Ladies after they were awarded a home win against Bungay Town Ladies Reserves.

Suffolk

In Suffolk there was just the one league match taking place with Brantham Athletic Ladies at home to Witnesham Wasps Ladies, scored a goal in both the 1st and 2nd half to win the match 2-0. Kirsten Hutchings and Jessica Ryan the players on target. The win sees Brantham Athletic climb above Bacton United Ladies into 2nd place.

Cambridgeshire

Was also meant to be the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s league Cup this Sunday but sadly the ties between Cambridge United WFC Reserves & Fulbourn Bluebirds + Huntingdon Town Ladies & Cambridge City Ladies were postponed.

  In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership there was just the one fixture, but a huge one for Newmarket Town Ladies as they picked up their 1st win in the top division. Away to Bar Hill Ladies, with their U18s fresh from winning a place in their League Cup final on Saturday the 1st team celebrated by beating Bar Hill Ladies away from home. Abbie Griffin, Kirsten Hummell and Dominika Szary all scoring in a 3-1 win. Anna Jephson with the goal for Bar Hill Ladies.

 One match took place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South with Downham Town Ladies on the road taking on 2nd bottom Hungate Rovers Ladies. George Lingham hit a hat-trick along with goals fron Zoe Sharp and Chelsea Thomason to win the match 5-0 the victory lifting Downham Town Ladies up to 2nd in the table.

 All 3 scheduled league matches in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship took place at the weekend, Little Paxton Ladies have dropped out of the league which has seen a small amount of adjustment to the table. St Ives Town Ladies are still top but the lead is now down to a single point with 2nd place Park Ladies closing the gap and giving their goal difference a massive boost with a large home win against Isleham United Ladies, Kirstie Smith top scored with a hat-trick, with Ebony Bliss, Casey Ward and Erin Powell getting a brace, Madison Jackson and Gemma Hutton also scored in an 11-2 victory. Laura Todd scored both of Isleham United goals. Park Ladies have a game in hand on the leaders.

 4th v 3rd as Milton Ladies played host to Riverside Rovers Reserves and Milton Ladies leapfrog Riverside Rovers into 3rd spot courtesy of a 4-0 win Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks scoring 3 times with Felicity Price also on the scoresheet. Another big winner at the weekend were Comberton Ladies at home to bottom side Cambridge Rangers. Kerri Hilton-Taylor was on fire putting the ball into the back of the net 6 times, Megan Jeray also scored as Comberton won 7-2.

Essex

Very quiet in Essex this weekend, with all but one league and cup fixture surviving that was in the Essex Women’s Premier Division with Collier Row Tigers at home to Walden Ladies. Had slipped to 5th in the table but are now right back in the hunt for the title winning comprehensively 10-0 to climb back up into 3rd spot 2 points behind leaders Chelmsford City Ladies.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

 Sherrardswood Ladies level on points at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with Harvesters FC Ladies had the opportunity to go 3 points clear this Sunday were playing 3rd placed Hertford Town Ladies at home. Hertford Town had played just the one league match so far in 2016 de to cup commitments and postponements prior to that were going strong in the league undefeated in 7 matches with 6 of those wins. Laveena Betts and Donna Watts got the goals for Hertford Town Ladies as they beat Sherrardswood Ladies 2-0 the win putting them onto 22 points 3 behind the leading pair with games in hand.

Battle of the top 2 in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two, with leaders Sharnbrook WFC 5 points clear of 2nd placed Houghton Athletic Ladies going into the game. Thing’s didn’t go to plan for Houghton Athletic travelling to Sharnbrook as they suffered a heavy defeat to see gap extended to 8 points. Sharnbrook taking the lead midway through the 1st half, Gemma Franklin netting the goal, Charlotte Mullins scored just past the half hour mark, Franklin scoring again in 1st half injury time to make it 3-0 at half time. Mullins was on target 6 minutes into the 2nd half scoring her 2nd goal of the match. Sarah Fuller got herself on the scoresheet on the 60th minute with Tracey Hutchinson getting a goal 8 minutes later. Sian Cunningham made it 7-0 in the late minute to see Sharnbrook extend their lead at the top of the table.

Bottom club Evergreen Eagles picked up a point for the 2nd successive Sunday a high scoring draw as they held 4th placed Watton Ladies the match ending 4-4.

 In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, leaders Hitchin Belles made it 10 wins out of 10 in the league to stay top, were at home hosting bottom side Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. The usual suspects with the goals with Emily Field and Shannon Page both putting the back home to win the game 2-0.

Previous league leaders Icknield Ladies had suffered there 1st league defeat in 7 matches last time out dropping to 2nd on goal difference behind Hitchin Belles they keep the points tally neck and neck 30 each getting 3 points away to Hatfield Town Ladies. Won big to take the 3 points, Zoe Molloy netting a hat-trick, Cyeanna Eaton a brace with a goal each for Louise Grocott, Sandra Knias, Jodie Molloy and Jackie Sheridan in a 9-1 win.

The team who beat Icknield Ladies last Sunday were Bedmond Ladies the win lifting them up into 4th in the table and into the mix for promotion. Their opponents Evergreen Ladies had suffered defeat at that weekend away to Hitchin Belles now they were away to Bedmond and win for either would give them home of catching the leading pair. Evergreen Ladies got the 3 points to move back up into 3rd place in a high scoring match coming out on top of a 5-3 scoreline. Their goals scored by Emily Jones, Rebecca Freeman, Natalie Maher, Louisa Johnson and Krystie Jacobs.

 End with some sad news as there has been another side drop out of the leagues, in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, Welwyn Garden City Ladies have folded which sees an adjustment to the table Women’s Football East wishes everyone involved the very best and hope you find a new club to enjoy your football with.

That concludes another edition of The Tuesday Round-Up plenty of goals scored this Sunday. Another two cup finalists sorted. League battles not going to plan at the top for a few as the business end of the season arrives, still lots to play for. Just want to see some sunshine. Results are all updated in the leagues, cups and the league tables themselves to follow will update as soon as I can, off to watch West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies at Upton Park tonight been looking forwards to this visit. Until next Tuesday thanks for reading.

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

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Sunday’s match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup semi-finals, a clash between two Premier Division sides with Colchester Town Ladies hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies. An exciting game that either side could have won, fast paced with plenty of action was won by the odd goal in 7, great for the neutral spectator. For the whole match report click on the link below to take you to the SWF Blog.

Colchester Town Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies U18s v Wisbech St Marys U18s

Match Report – Newmarket Ladies U18s v Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s

Saturday 5th March 2016

   Readers of the Supporting Women’s Football Blog will know I like to cover as much women’s football as I can across the country, like to see new sides for the 1st time. Today though is my 1st taste of women’s football at youth level with a game from the Cambridgeshire U18s League Cup a semi-final Newmarket Town Ladies U18s v Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s.

   It was Newmarket Town Ladies who asked me a while back if I was interested in coming over to watch a match at youth level, their senior women’s side is fairly new to the Cambridgeshire Women’s County League set-up entering at the start of the 2014/15 season into the Championship South, they won the title to earn promotion to the Premiership above a young side the aim is to establish themselves in the league then build with players from their U18s side already playing regularly for the 1st team, more stepping up next season with a couple more Jordanne Sillitoe and Katie Webb playing at a higher level still in the ERWFL Premier Division with Great Shelford Ladies. The U18s are 2nd in their league with a record of 7 wins a draw and 2 defeats from 10 games played.

   Tough opponents today with Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s (Purples) having a strong season in the league a 100% win record with 12 wins out of 12 are 3 points away from winning the title. The two sides have met in the league twice this season with Wisbech St Marys the side to give Newmarket their 2 defeats, both close games the 1st 2-0 the 2nd game just last Saturday where they came back from 2-0 down and 3-2 down to win the match 4-3 are aiming for a league and cup double. A handful of their players too have featured for the senior Wisbech St Marys Ladies side which competes in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North.

   The venue for today’s match, Dullingham Polo Fields, off the beaten track a little not too far out of Newmarket itself the place was a hive of activity when I arrived with plenty of cars parked on the wet grass, a pavilion with a row of child size pitches with plenty of games in progress, a catering trailer providing hot food and drink with the U18s warming up in the full sized pitch beyond. The weather was awful sleet and rain to start the day falling heavily as I left Norfolk I was expecting to hear the game was to be called off. The rain had just about stopped by time I parked, bitterly cold as I found and introduced myself to both sides coaches before kick-off.

   Newmarket Ladies U18s starting XI – Lilli Estus, Katie Webb, Yasmin Woodfield, Ella Blowes (C), Jess Linger, Abbi Griffin, Olivia Orme, Molly Agnew, Dominika Szary & Jordanne Sillitoe
   subs – 

   Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s starting XI – Courtney Pilbeam, Millie York, Ellie Nobbs, Chelsea King, Kayleigh Pilbeam, Kitty Whitacre, Bella Winn Jeorgia Carr, Amy Magnus (C) & Sophie Harris

   subs – Lauren Cook, Carlie Knight, Alison Stokoe & Emily Woosnar

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  If you were observant you would have noticed both sides starting XI’s had 10 players not 11. Newmarket were struggling with injuries have only the 10 players available today, could have started with 9 however 10 was agreed as the two sides lined-up for the hand shakes. Newmarket have kick off 1st half are wearing yellow shirts, blue shorts an blue socks with white tops. With Wisbech St Marys lined up opposite wearing purple shirts, black shorts and socks. Newmarket have the wind at their backs as it starts to rain again, tricky day for taking notes… 
                                                      Players shaking hands before the match

     The game starts at a furious pace with both sides looking to get the ball out to the flanks get in behind, Bella Winn carries the ball down the right for Wisbech St Marys her cross takes a deflection off a Newmarket boot taking it away from the run made by Sophie Harris towards the edge of the area, the ball comes to Newmarket captain, Ella Blowes in the centre of defence who launches it clear of her area.

   Jordanne Sillitoe leading the line for Newmarket is looking to get hold of the ball and run at the Wisbech St Marys defence, coming down the right can’t get the better of Millie York the two going shoulder to shoulder the defender timing her tackle perfectly to prevent Sillitoe crossing into the box. The pitch has seen alot of play and a light covering of snow has made it a little slick and bobbly. Dominika Szary is playing a little deeper than Sillitoe providing the link between midfield and attack for Newmarket, back to goal the ball is put into her feet by midfielder Abbi Griffin who then goes on the overlap wants the ball put down the right wing, Szary picks her out with the pass, Griffin takes the ball on but crossing sends the ball behind the goal.

                                                                  Wisbech St Marys, Kitty Whitacre

A good ball down the line by Kitty Whitacre on the left as she brings the ball forwards for Wisbech St Marys, captain Amy Magnus makes the run from a central position to get onto the end of the ball whipping a great cross into the box, Newmarket’s defence is prepared to drop deep and keeping a good shape head the ball clear. The ball is retrieved by Kayleigh Pilbeam for Wisbech St Marys who shoots from about 20 yards out on target coming in low, Newmarket goalkeeper Lilli Estus is right behind it and scoops the ball up into her gloves.

  The match is free flowing, end to end, players not spending much time on the ball, the women’s game is usually played at a high tempo the U18s is much faster, now sooner has Sillitoe won a corner for Newmarket, the ball whipped in from the right side, Whitacre rises to head clear for Wisbech St Marys the counter attack is on Winn racing up the right flashes a cross along the six yard line inside the Newmarket box. 

                                                  Sophie Harris attacking for Wisbech St Marys

  Midway through the 1st half Wisbech St Marys have the substitutes to bring on mix thing’s up and are using them Lauren Cook and Alison Stokoe introduced to the action. For all the action neither goalkeeper has been seriously tested yet. Sillitoe comes close to opening the scoring for Newmarket as a Wisbech St Marys goal kick drops favourably for her 25 yards out, goals for goal getting swerve on the shot, Courtney Pilbeam in goal for the visitors doesn’t move turns to her left sees it sail a foot wide of the post.

  A corner on the left for Newmarket, is send it low towards the near post, Sillitoe making a run towards the ball, turns it goalwards 3 yards out, however Pilbeam has comes across and is well placed to plant herself on the ground and gather the ball. Newmarket come again with the ball fed out to Sillitoe on the right, help from Molly Agnew the ball is sent in towards the box looping up Szary is under it at the near post, is unchallenged as she goes to head the ball sends it wide of the goal.

                                            50/50 challenge between Sophie Harris & Jordanne Sillitoe

From the next Newmarket corner, the ball is cleared out into the midfield, the ball is hotly contested players drawn into the melee it rebounding around it pops clear for Szary and she is ahead of everyone, free for a run at the Wisbech St Marys box, travels with the ball right Pilbeam comes racing out to charge her down at the edge of her area, charging the attempted shot down recovers faster to throw herself over the loose ball before Szary can latch onto it with her goal exposed behind.

    GOAL! Penalty! Newmarket are awarded a spot kick, with the ball out on the right win a series of throws to move them down the line the last sees a high ball whipped into the Wisbech St Marys box, Szary is under it when she is shoved over the referee immediately  pointing to the penalty spot. Up steps Sillitoe to take, goes for power sending the ball high to the left giving Pilbeam no chance to save, 1-0

                     Jordanne Sillitoe scoring from the penalty spot to give Newmarket the lead

  Sillitoe is covering alot off grass for Newmarket in attack going right and left, running at the Wisbech St Marys defence isn’t getting much luck up against York, coming across to the opposite wing shoulder to shoulder with Whitacre the defender pushing her wide Sillitoe manages to get a shot away, as they enter the area, Pilbeam has to keep her eye on the bouncing ball does well to shift her feet and see the ball up into her midriff.

   Carlie Knight and Emily Woosnar have both come on for Wisbech St Marys. Attacking up the right Harris is clipped as she looks to turn inside towards the box, Jeorgia Carr is over the free kick, looks to whip a cross along the six yard line for runners chasing in to attack, just a little too close to Estus gives the keeper the opportunity to drop on the ball. Whitacre bringing the ball forwards slides the pass in for Magnus to make a run at the Newmarket defence, back tracking Yasmin Woodfield makes the challenge to win the ball outside the box. Carr picking up the ball in midfield comes forwards for Wisbech St Marys, jinking left then right opening up room for a shot 20 yards out the shot is blocked by Blowes rushing out to close it down.

  Szary get’s a print of the football plastered across her back as bombing forwards down the left team mate Jess Linger lets fly from distance Szary can’t get out of the way, a painful one needs treatment but isn’t long returning to the action. Attacking down the right Newmarket come again Olivia Orme bringing it forwards before sending Sillitoe away, coming inside Agnew is available for the cross inside the D, the ball rolled into her takes on the shot sweeping the ball up his over the bar.

   Closing moments of the 1st half, Newmarket applying late pressure to the Wisbech St Marys defence as they struggle to get the ball out of their area with Sillitoe getting her boot on the ball just inside the box carries it to her right before letting fly, on target waist height Pilbeam produces a fantastic piece of goalkeeping as she dives full stretched to her right brings the ball down and traps it under her body.

   Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies U18s 1-0 Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s

   An exciting and fast paced 1st half, Newmarket have the slender lead but have created more going forwards and haven’t offered Wisbech St Mary too many opportunities to get in behind a defensive unit that is working hard keeping a good shape. I’m hungry and with a catering trailer calling me risk going to get a bacon roll, going to be 2 minutes I can’t wait the players are already on the way back out, so I put it on hold till the end and get back as Wisbech St Marys get the 2nd half underway.
  GOAL! Had I have waited for my bacon roll I would have missed this. Newmarket double their advantage early in the 2nd half winning a throw inside the Wisbech St Marys half on the left the ball comes to Sillitoe who getting her head down drives inside towards the edge of the box, looks up Agnew is to her right edge of the box in space, Pilbeam races out to try and close her down as Agnew pulls the trigger the ball squirms under the keeper as Agnew trips over her, stays on her feet, to get onto the ball and knock it over the line 2-0.

                                                               Molly Agnew scoring Newmarket Town
                                                                           Ladies U18s 2nd goal

Newmarket have started brightly 2nd half Katie Webb tackling Harris brings it out from the back plays the ball into Griffin in the centre her pass forwards releases Agnew on the right, Stokoe gets across to tackle win the ball as she reaches the area. Winning the ball ball is given to Agnew on the wing once again whips a good cross into the box, Szary get’s her foot to the ball the shot is sliced favourably swinging in towards Pilbeam to claim.

   Harris carries the ball 20 yards into the Newmarket half, coming inside Magnus is making the run for her to get into the box Harris looks to put her through on goal Magnus can’t quite take it into her stride. Griffin puts Sillitoe through on goal, York gets round on the cover putting in a strong challenge to take the ball away from her, Sillitoe goes after it out on the left two strides looks to shoot looks to be drifting away from the goal, Pilbeam can’t be sure with the post behind her and knocking it into the ground falls bringing it into her body.

  Carr travels with the ball on the right of attack for Wisbech St Marys sends a high ball across the face of the six yard box with Lauren Cook coming in far post her touch laying the ball back to the edge of the area with Magnus free she puts her foot through the ball the shot blocked by the Newmarket defence. Carr out on the right again squares her next cross low into Magnus waiting for it just inside the box looks to hit it on the spin again Newmarket throw a body in the way of the shot the loose ball spins into the path of the onrushing Cook she goes for the strike again Newmarket put the block in.

                                      Yasmin Woodfield bringing the ball out from the back for Newmarket

  With Wisbech St Marys pressing on looking for a goal the counter attack is on Sillitoe is given it on halfway beating the last defender heads for the area right side Pilbeam comes out to met her inside the area stays up blocking with her legs as Sillitoe tries to knock it past her, and again the goalkeeper is the quicker to pounce on the loose ball. Sillitoe has the ball on the left gets the ball into the box with Szary running into the centre six yards out shoots, a defender just about gets there as the ball deflects up over the bar, corner awarded. The 1st corner from the right is put behind for a 2nd this one is send in towards the near post 10 yards out Szary coming to meet it gets her head on the ball turns it towards goal but over the crossbar.

   Wisbech St Marys are having a frustrating game the final ball just isn’t happening at the moment as they press players forwards picking the ball up from a deeper position Magnus drives inside with Cook and Woosnar ahead of her looks to put the ball through into the area, Estus reading the threat sprints off her goal line to get hold of the ball as the game moves into the last 10 minutes. Newmarket aren’t interested in running the ball into the corner holding play up.

                        Amy Magnus on the ball looking to make something happen for Wisbech St Marys

Free Kick for Newmarket wide on the left with the wind against her Sillitoe goes for goal near post the wind is a problem holds the ball up tricky one for the goalkeeper to deal with Pilbeam does well throwing a glove up turning the ball round the post for a corner kick. 

 
  GOAL! Game is into the closing minutes, Wisbech St Marys have everyone bar the goalkeeper inside the Newmarket half as they search for that one chance to get a goal back. Griffin wins the ball back for Newmarket her pass out to halfway releases Sillitoe on the left side tired legs no one can catch her travels towards the box release her shot aiming near post the ball skidding along the wet grass, Pilbeam gets across to the near post is unlucky as the ball squeezes under her to go into the back of the net 3-0.

                      Wisbech St Marys Bella Winn with Newmarket Town Ladies Jordanne Sillitoe

  GOAL! Wisbech St Marys know it hasn’t been their day but still push forwards from the restart the cross is swept into the box Orme wins the header the ball played long for Sillitoe to go after as she sprints over the halfway line bearing down on goal Pilbeam has to come, Sillitoe shoots early this time slotting the ball past her from outside the past to score her hat-trick 4-0.

  The final whistle blows and Newmarket Town Ladies U18s win the match 4-0 to make it to the final of the League Cup. Were the better side today although they didn’t put the tie beyond doubt until the closing minutes. Sure I didn’t see the Wisbech St Marys Ladies U18s side that has been dominating the league all season today were outplayed a frustrating morning the Newmarket defence didn’t give much away. Netherton United Ladies U18s or Sawtry Ladies U18s await them in the final date and venue yet to be announced. Time to go get my bacon roll.

  My thanks to both clubs coaches for their help with the teams today, enjoyed my 1st look at youth football despite the bitterly cold weather. The action never stopped and it was hard work for the pen to keep up. Congratulations to Newmarket Town Ladies U18s and best of luck for the final.