Monthly Archives: February 2020

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 16th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Storm Ciara blew through the country last weekend wiping out the women’s football fixtures lists and hot in it’s Storm Dennis arrived promising another weekend of disruption this time around, a case of leaving it to the last minute to see what games might hold out, Norwich City Women announcing their game was on it was a short trip to The Nest in the north of the city to watch their Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-final clash against Wroxham Women.

The Norfolk Women’s County Cup final played at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road ground for the first time last season the trophy won for a 2nd successive season by Wymondham Town Ladies, the holders were looking to make it 4 county cup final appearances on the bounce as they took on Sprowston Ladies in the other semi-final match beating the weather this weekend. Carrow Road to host the final once again this season a huge opportunity for both today’s opponents.

Norwich City Women dominating the County Cup in Norfolk at the start of the decade withdrew from the competition for a couple of season’s returning to compete a couple of seasons ago falling in the early stages on the previous two ocassions against King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Acle United Women last season now Wroxham Women. Norfolk’s leading league placed sides competing in FAWNL South East Division One are in a period of transition to a degree bringing in alot of youthful players with a strong experienced spine within the squad. Striker Chelsea Garrett amongst the goals this season has 18 to her name so far. Reaching a Carrow Road final would be a dream come true.

Wroxham Women are a new name for an experienced side making the move from Acle United an established side in the ERWFL Premier Division a league below the FAWNL South East Division One. Have been warmly embraced and supported by Wroxham FC as they look to push on further within the women’s football pyramid. Have a striker too prolific in attack this season Grace Birchall leading the line netting 27 goals already this season from just 12 appearances. Have been frustrated by postponements in recent weeks today’s game thier first competitive action since the 19th January. Injuries to affecting the squad whilst new players coming in are ineligible to play in today’s game.

The Nest in Horsford to the north of Norwich close the the airport the venue for today’s semi-final. Norwich playing here a few times are keen advocates for seeing the side fully developed building work ongoing in very early stages has the potential to add to good sporting facilities already dotted about the county. Had this game earmarked early on but the weather forecast meant I daren’t commit until late on and with the rainfall heavy over night had my doubts but the game was on still with rain falling all the way still wasn’t convinced, wind blowing too, very unpleasant as I headed out to the pitch, but passing inspection by the officials was in surprisingly good shape holding up well with no standing water. A good walk from the clubhouse hot drinks available. No cover wind strong and rain sweeping across not ideal playing conditions. Women’s football supporters have a tendency to appear out of nowhere 5 minutes before kick-off and a surprising number had braved the elements. Wroxham bringing a small but hardcore following who were in loud voice singing throughout the match.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Brooke Osborne, Lauren Cullum, Tigi Robson, Kate Parsons, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss (C), Rosie George, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Keunna Dill, Abbigail Tate & Sian Douglas.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Kayleigh Holloway, Chloe Shields, Lauren Bailey, Victoria Pleavin, Ciera Flatt, Lauren Bullard, Naomi Cooper, Kirstie Kindred & Grace Birchall. Subs – Kate Pasque, Mary-Anne Hoy & Leanne Symonds.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Working out how best to wield an umbrella, notepad and camera without a stand to hide in the wind was blowing the rain across the pitch so having at my back worked well abandoned the umbrella altogether with the rain lightening up somewhat the wind still strong would be a factor in the game along with a slick pitch. Norwich licking off the game wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts. Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence launched forwards, Wroxham goalkeeper, Amy Bell getting her gloves on the ball early on.

Bell’s kick out of goal high carried by the wind, difficult to bring under control Norwich regain possession the ball put out long on the diagonal to the left Rosie George on the flank, checks back playing it inside the ball lifted towards the box dealt with by the Wroxham defence. The early exchanges scrappy conditions difficult the wind swirling across the pitch. Wroxham make ground on the right getting forwards the cross standing up in the wind Grace Birchall inside the box can’t bring under control, the visitors pressure in the final third drawing the foul a free-kick out wide, players up from the back into the box, the ball delivered towards the near post Lauren Bailey attacking it for Wroxham can’t direct her effort on target wide behind goal.

Norwich play the ball out from the back a push in the back on captain Millie Daviss as she looks to head the ball on from halfway, referee Stuart Jessop playing the advantage as the ball is gathering into her stride by Natasha Snelling running on puts it through the Wroxham defence for Chelsea Garrett breaking in behind, Bell quickly out of her area winning the race for the ball launching it up field.

Naomi Cooper playing the ball on for Wroxham Women

Wroxham getting joy on the right captain Anna Larkins getting forwards to support the attack with Naomi Cooper a dangerous ball whipped in close to the near post cut out by Norwich’s Lauren Cullum. Wroxham quick to close down Norwich as they look to carry the ball out from the back. The wind playing it’s part ball running on for Wroxham as they attack, Norwich counter Jodie Drake sliding in to win the ball on half way forwards into Garrett’s feet, turns sees Snelling making a run the forwards past carrying too mach weight allowing Bell to come and claim. Garrett with a strike on the volley from 25 yards out racing wide of the left post.

George on the ball good close control coming inside from the left slides the ball through central for Snelling top of the area, going a fraction too soon the flag up against her. Kayleigh Holloway back in defence for Wroxham being kept busy by Norwich’s Aimee Durrant pushing on from the right. Wroxham hustling the ball inside the Norwich half Ciera Flatt combining with Birchall and Cooper win a corner on the right. the wind getting stronger the corner delivered towards the top of the box attacked by Bailey, Durrant with her challenging bringing the ball away for the hosts can’t make any headway.

Grace Birchall getting the better of Norwich’s Kate Parson’s

George getting on with the ball left side checking inside 25 yards out puts in a low diagonal ball looking for Snelling in the middle, Chloe Shields misses it for Wroxham allowing the attacker to steal in behind, Bell diving as she shoots stabs her attempt wide of goal. Holloway defends for Wroxham playing the ball on well pushed through for Kirstie Kindred right channel plays it on for Birchall the wind taking it on allows Norwich goalkeeper to come and claim before Birchall can latch onto it.

An even match both sides finding openings creating chances looking for space, Garrett this time away into the left corner with the ball flashes a cross into the box Durrant near side can’t adjust her body to get a telling touch gathered by Drake out on the right turns back to cross low fires the ball into the side netting. Birchall with an audacious attempt from just beyond the centre circle turning as she receives the ball looking to catch Armstrong unawares the ball landing wide of goal. Space fro Holloway on the left inside the Wroxham half lines up a shot her curling effort dropping safely into Armstrong’s gloves.

GOAL! The visitors open the scoring a strong attack on the right wing Larkins away in behind bursting on drives a rising sot in on the angle Armstrong flashes up a glove to keep in out deflects the ball across her goal face dropping at the far post Birchall sliding in puts it in from close range 0-1.

Grace Birchall putting Wroxham Women into the lead

Norwich come straight on from the restart Daviss out to Durrant on the right takes the ball on looping a high ball into the area caught cleanly by Bell. Wroxham counter coming on down the right Lauren Bullard linking with Cooper a corner kick won. A difficult one for the keeper put in under her bar Armstrong deflects it out into her six yard box comes straight to Birchall, on her quickly an instinctive header sends the ball over the crossbar.

Grace Birchall with the instinctive header put over the bar for Wroxham

GOAL! Norwich get straight back on level terms the ball direct put through the middle sees Garrett race away in behind the defence, Bell starts to come but realises she can’t get there, can’t get back into position in time is caught in no mans land as Garrett clinical lobs the ball over her into the back of the net 1-1.

A good contest between Birchall in attack and Kate Parson’s in defence for Norwich the Wroxham attack always looking to get away when the ball is played forwards. Norwich pushing on gaining some momentum Brooke Osborne travelling out from the back with the ball trying her luck from distance. Drake sending a shot wide.

GOAL! On the attack Durrant is brought down on the right outside the box the ball played into the centre of the area evades everyone comes out to the left still inside the box a vicious strike fired back in charged down deflected straight to Garrett top of the area left of the D she smashes her shot home to score her 2nd of the game and fire Norwich into the lead 2-1.

Norwich City Women’s striker Chelsea Garrett (taken in sunny times) (photo credit Brian Coombes)

GOAL! No sooner have Norwich taken the lead then they race into a 3-1 lead, cutting Wroxham open on the counter attack Durrant with space to exploit on the right drives a fierce strike low into the six yard box Birchall lurking at the far post the ball is turned into the back of their own net by the Wroxham defence.

Wroxham make the first change of the game Kate Pasque coming on at the back for Bailey. Wroxham attack on the right Kindred on for Birchall turning inside the box is adjudged to foul Cullum as she goes past her. Tigi Robson cutting out a diagonal pass from Bullard as Wroxham build through the middle.

GOAL! A devastating spell from Norwich sees them further extend their lead the ball played forwards the game somewhat stretched to the right Durrant closing down Shields at the back as Bell comes towards the right hand corner of her area wanting the ball, defender and goalkeeper close Durrant reads it and steals in on Bell to rob the ball and walk it into the back of the net beyond 4-1.

Aimee Durrant steal in to win the ball and put Norwich 4-1 ahead (photo credit Brian Coombes)

Wroxham well and truly on the back foot tempers flare in the middle a foul leading to pushing and shoving, Flatt and Drake both shown a yellow card. Flatt letting her frustration out with a strike from distance 35 yards out the ball looping into the box caught by Armstrong. Daviss coming on for Norwich as they press the ball on the left side fires a 20 yard shot over the bar. At the back Cullum recovers well showing good pace to catch kindred as she almost gets away from her following a great through ball from Flatt.

A mis-hit from George top of the area, Durrant able to latch onto it her shot in held by Bell. Wroxham counter attack quickly Bullard with a good ball through for Larkins away on the right her strike from the angle hitting the top of the crossbar.

Half-time Norwich City Women 4-1 Wroxham Women

Norwich with a devastating 15 minute spell coming back from a goal down to lead at the end of the 1st half 4-1. A even contest up to that point both sides creating opportunities coping well despite the terrible playing conditions the rain light the wind strong throughout. Norwich capitalising on some Wroxham errors with a strong advantage to carry into the 2nd half, Wroxham with alot of work to do to get back into the game will need a goal back quickly in the 2nd half.

Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway no changes for either side that I can see, the skies are brightening a little the rain easing. Wroxham straight on the attack Birchall turning on the ball looks to release Kindred ahead of her, Cullum on her shoulder muscles her off the ball. Durrant with a ball on from the right aiming to get Birchall in on the box this time Armstrong out of her box to clear the danger. Wroxham starting the 2nd half well a high ball forwards headed clear by Parsons. Lots of high ball, no one getting hold of it Drake spreading play to Durrant on the right her cross in intercepted by Pasque for Wroxham.

Kate Parsons winning the ball for Norwich City.

Wroxham win a free-kick out wide on the left Holloway on the ball played short back to Larkins lets fly from 30 yards out looks wide from where I’m standing on halfway but maybe not as Armstrong dives to her right to glove the ball behind for a corner kick. The ball from the left into a crowded near post area put wide of goal a 2nd corner awarded. This ball dealt with by the head of Parsons.

Wroxham’s Victoria Pleavin

Victoria Pleavin brings the ball on from the back for Wroxham allowed to drive on comes into the middle before Norwich numbers force her off the ball. The rain has stopped at last just makes the wind feel stronger. Bell with a good claim in the middle of her six yard box as Norwich flung a cross in from the right. Norwich make their first change of the match Keunna Dill coming on for Durrant, George switching to the right side. Wroxham make another change too with Mary-Anne Hoy on for Pasque. Flatt carries the ball forwards for Wroxham a strong run putting it on for Birchall giving her a run into the left channel, Robson showing great pace to get back on her and put in the challenge.

Norwich City Women’s, Keunna Dill

Space opening up as Wroxham commit in attack Norwich playing the ball though the centre for Garrett she turns playing the diagonal ball to Dill in acres of space on the left takes the ball on into the box the angle closing fires in a low strike Bell saving fantastically with her legs the ball deflected behind for a corner on the left.

Chances at both ends Flatt up to Birchall left 25 yards out Bullard rushing on through the centre the ball put inside she robs it off the Norwich defence stealing into the box, the final shot tame in the finish easy for Armstrong going to ground to smother the shot. George away on the right for Norwich down the line fires in a low cross at the near post Garrett there turn into the shot puts it straight at Bell. Wroxham need to get back into the game Norwich ready to capitalise going forwards.

Wroxham Women’s Lauren Bullard

Bullard through the middle again takes the ball round the grounded keeper top of the area, Parsons back on her to put the ball behind for a corner before she can get a shot away. The corner put in near side havoc in the box Armstrong beaten as the shot comes in, Cullum keeping it out on the goal line clearing for Norwich. Larkins defending up the other end for Wroxham as Garrett looks to send the ball on through the middle. Wroxham make a third change with Leanne Symonds coming on for Bullard.

Kayleigh Holloway looking to get after the ball for Wroxham Women

End to end Garrett stealing in on the ball in the final third robbing the Wroxham defence into the area the angles going away from her she sends in a fierce strike Bell saving with her legs again putting the ball behind for another corner. Norwich making a change before the corner is taken Abbigail Tate coming on for Osborne, Sian Douglas on for Garrett shortly after. Bell holding onto the corner the ball forwards Birchall fouled by Robson outside the box 20 yards out to the left takes on the shot herself fires over.

Birchall determined in attack getting away from Parsons letting fly from 25 yards out central her shot swerving through the air Armstrong diving full stretch to her right the ball narrowly wide of the post. The game entering the final 10 minutes.

GOAL! Drake winning the ball as she has done all game in the middle bringing it on right side 35 yards out striking the ball sending her shot in over the keeper to seal the win 5-1.

Norwich City midfielder Jodie Drake makes it 5-1

GOAL! A blow for Wroxham late in the game and they are delivered another sucker punch straight away possession lost in the middle the ball put out to Dill clear on the left taking the ball to the byline whipping in a pacey cross into the six yard box Norwich players racing in Snelling there to turn the ball in from close range 6-1.

Natasha Snelling further extends Norwich’s lead

Norwich with a late burst of energy tails up push forwards Daviss getting on winning a corner kick on the right.

GOAL! The corner taken short up the line on the right fired in on the angle a powerful strike clearing the keeper to smash against the far post and deflect over the line across goal. Sian Douglas with the strike to make it 7-1 scoring her first Norwich goal.

GOAL! Wroxham blown away at the end of the match as Norwich go on to score an 8th goal. Dill a constant threat on the left since being introduced to the game put clear into space to run on central releasing a shot top of the area looping over Bell her shot cannons back of the cross bar, Bell off balance tries to claim, Snelling running in on top of her nicking the ball and running it on into the empty net. 8-1.

Wroxham come on minutes left beaten keep going in attack Birchall has run herself into the ground moves out to the right to receive the ball fires in a cross along the top of the six yard box, Cooper rushing forwards at the far post can’t quite get there. Flatt advancing through the middle putting the ball onto Birchall, Robson getting across her in the box seeing the ball back to her keeper. The final whistle blows up and Norwich City Women with a comfortable final score advance to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final.

Full time Norwich City Women 8-1 Wroxham Women

A game played in terrible weather conditions a credit to both sides for making a competitive contest out of it. An even start to the match chances for both sides Wroxham taking the lead, Norwich coming straight back to level the scores and a devastating spell saw them race into a 4-1 lead at half-time. Wroxham had to attack 2nd half and needed an early goal if they wanted to get back into the game Norwich defending well ready to hit on the counter going 5-1 up with 10 minutes to play a 2nd spell of destruction saw them hammer home the result taking them through to a Carrow Road final a truly special occasion for the club especially their senior players who have long deserved the opportunity. A disappointing end result for Wroxham but they matched Norwich for long periods of the game and created chances.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few players to mention, firstly for Wroxham, Lauren Bullard with some superb passing and runs in attack. Grace Birchall too in attack worked tirelessly to create goal scoring opportunities. For Norwich, their defence was excellent as a unit, Lauren Cullum in particular, Rosie George out wide too, today’s award though goes to central midfielder Jodie Drake a strong performance in the centre of the park breaking up play making tackles and getting forwards well to support the attack plus scoring a well taken goal.

Norwich City Women will player the holders Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final after they beat Sprowston Ladies 4-0 this afternoon. The Final to be played on Sunday 19th April at Carrow Road an 11am kick-off, looking forwards to it already.

Suppose it was good to get back to it after missing last weekend through Storm Ciara, enjoyed the football but certainly didn’t enjoy the weather, the notepad was well and truly soaked, along with the writer but both dried out now. My thanks to both sides for giving me the team details always appreciated.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Four games at the weekend played in Norfolk Women’s Division One, Thorpe United Ladies runaway leaders in the table this season winning 11 from 11 played to date were at home to 4th placed Tavern Ladies on Sunday looking to make it 12 from 12 and beat one of the sides who could damage their title defence. Tavern enjoying a good season so far following promotion from Division Two losing just one league game so far this season knocked Thorpe out of the League Cup last season. Thorpe though in great form and scoring plenty of goals lead in attack by captain Rebekah Lake. Won the game 4-0 to stay 9 points clear at the top with games beginning to run out.

Sprowston Ladies winning away from home at the weekend to stay 2nd ahead of Bungay Town Ladies the pair level on points 27 each. Sprowston travelling to Clipbush Park to play Fakenham Town Ladies who were fielding the bare 11. Sprowston getting themselves into a 2-0 half-time lead matched that scoreline 2nd half to win 4-0 with goals from top scorer Victoria Leyer her 30th of the season a goal in her first start for Georgina Belton with Camilla Morgan also credited with a goal.

Bungay Town Ladies matching Sprowston’s points tally of 27 in 3rd spot in Division One have two games in hand. Were at home taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies at the weekend. Both sides scoring twice in the first half going into the half-time interval all square. Sprowston Athletic working hard through the game coming away empty handed with Bungay finding a 3rd goal in the 2nd half to win the game 3-2. Leanne Smith on target with her 12th goal of the season for Bungay with Shannon Dade and Lauren Purling also on the scoresheet. Laura Jenkins and Sophie Rose with her first goal for the club scoring for Sprowston Athletic.

A third straight win in league and cup lifting Long Stratton Women back up to fifth in the Division One table. Were away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday. Captain Samantha Walker scoring a double hat-trick last weekend in the League Cup repeating the feat again this weekend netting 6 goals against Freethorpe sending her past 21 goals for the season. Beth Stratton also scoring a goal as Long Stratton ran out 7-1 winners. Laura-Jayne Stacey getting the Freethorpe goal.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Two matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday. Thorpe United Ladies Reserves were in action at home to Mulbarton Belles. Shanice Sutton making her return to football after a long injury layoff for Thorpe on target to score twice for the Reserves with Emily Warnes also finding the back of the net for a goal to see the game won 3-1. The 3 points lifting Thorpe back up into 2nd spot in the Division Two table. Megan Sampson scoring the goal for Mulbarton.

Horsford Women climb up to fifth in the Division One table with victory away to 4th placed Waveney Ladies on Sunday. A 0-0 draw with the same opponents in the reverse fixture last weekend. Waveney scoring twice this weekend, Horsford though emerging 3-2 winners thanks to a goal from Amanda Vincent and a brace for Natalie Roope moving her onto 5 for the season. Horsford with 3 wins and a draw now from their last 5 league games.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

Cup action in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League this weekend with quarter final matches played in both competitions, the League Cup and The Chris Renshaw Cup. One quarter final tie in the League Cup falling foul to the weather holders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies home tie with Hartham United Ladies called off will try again next Sunday. Two Division Three sides reaching the last 4 of the League Cup both having home advantage at the weekend up against Division One opponents.

Herts Vipers leading the way in Division Three with a 100% scoring plenty of goals too were hosting Hitchin Town Ladies. Herts Vipers off to a fast start taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes Nicole Jancey setting up Selin Buyukgiray make it 1-0. Herts Vipers coming close to a 2nd before making a change in the 34th minute Rachel Wall introduced to the action making an instant impact scoring with her first touch to double the lead. Jancey on the scoresheet late in the first half to put Herts Vipers 3-0 up at the break. Buyukgiray with her 2nd of the game in the 56th minute, Herts Vipers finishing strong the game heading into the final 20 minutes Jancey going on to score a 9 minute hat-trick to add to her first half goal sending her to 42 goals to the season. Kelsey Millen sneaking in her 13th goal of the season during Jancey’s onslaught. 9-0 the final score to Herts Vipers a comprehensive victory to send them into the last 4 of the competition Buyukgiray completing her hat-trick with 5 minutes to play has 15 goals now this season from just 5 appearances. The draw for the League Cup semi-finals will see Herts Vipers at home to either St Albans Ladies or AFC Dunstable Women Blues who play their rearranged semi-final this weekend.

Kick-off between Herts Vipers & Hitchin Town Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Harts Vipers)

Biggleswade United Ladies 2nd in the Division Three table were at home to Division One side Garston Ladies 1st in the quarter finals of the League Cup, another side with goals in them Biggleswade were up against a Garston side in good form winning their last 4 league matches up to with goals coming throughout their side. Proved to strong for Biggleswade at the weekend scoring 5 without reply to advance into the semi-finals of the competition. 5 different scorers in the match too with, Holly Jury, Harley Carr, Charley Kelsey and Daniella and Jade Roberts celebrating a goal each. Garston with face either Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies or Hartham United Ladies away in the semi-finals.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

Quarter final weekend too in The Chris Renshaw Cup with 3 of the 4 ties played this Sunday. Division One side Northwood Ladies at home to Division Three side Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves. Northwood 3rd in the Division One table in good form winning six in a row in league and cup scoring goals too 37 in their last 3 games alone were amongst the goals again this weekend to safely progress to the last 4 of the competition. Emma Steele scoring a hat-trick in the tie going to 22 goals for the campaign. Emma Marshall netting a brace with Joanne Horwood also on the score sheet with a goal both on 8 for the season helping to secure a 6-0 win for Northwood.

Northwood will be away to fellow Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies after they narrowly beat Division Tow title contenders Langford Ladies in the quarter finals of The Chris Renshaw Cup at the weekend. Sophie Bounds scoring for Langford, goals though from Shakeela Hussain and Louise Spendelow seeing Houghton Athletic clinch a 2-1 victory to progress into the last four.

An all Division Two clash saw familiar opponents Garston Ladies Vintage Purples at home to Sherrardswood Ladies the pair meeting in the League Cup final itself a few season ago. Chances for both sides early on Garston taking the lead with Yasmin Sabri rounding the keeper to make it 1-0. Emma Trill doubling the hosts lead before Sabri struck again to see Garston 3-0 up at half-time. Alot for Sherrardswood to do to try and get back into the game Garston were working hard to prevent them scoring. Jane Hales striking a free-kick the ball sneaking in at the near post to put Garston 4-0 in front, Trill joining Sabri on 10 goals each for the season scoring her 2nd of the afternoon on the follow-up after her initial shot was saved. Trill going on to complete her hat-trick her position as stand alone top scorer lasting a matter of minutes with Sabri too sealing her hat-trick and send Garston into the last four of The Chris Renshaw Cup courtesy of a 7-0 win. Will be away to either Hitchin Belles or AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies in the semi-final the pair meeting this weekend.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

One league game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this weekend, Royston Town Women Development hosting Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Both sides finding it tough in the league following promotion last season, just the one win and draw for Royston from 9 played going into the game, Letchworth’s without a win so far this season 2 draws to date, 3-3 at home to Houghton Athletic Ladies last weekend Letchworth battled well against Royston at the weekend to see them earn a 2nd successive point of the season the match ending in a 2-2 draw, Kate Tempest and Tayla Murray with her 6th goal of the season scoring. Royston feeling they could have gotten more from the game scoring through Lydia Webb and Emer McAuliffe.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Also one league match played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two at the weekend and a significant result for AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies as they win at home to move to the top of the table for the 1st time this a season edging ahead of the 3 sides promoted with them last season, still just 3 points in it though between the top 4. Were at home to Evergreen Ladies on Sunday, goals from Charlie Mullins, Rachael Mumford and Helen Spalding securing a 3-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Four games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend and with the top two playing in the League Cup it was an opportunity for Harvesters Ladies in 3rd position to move back level on points with Biggleswade United Ladies in 2nd. Harvesters were on the road taking on bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies. Top scorers Eve Shaw netting a first half brace for the visitors taking her to 13 goals for the season now for Harvesters. Louise Avery scoring their 3rd goal early in the 2nd half, Rachel Dodd on target with a goal with 20 minutes left seeing Harvester secure a 4-1 victory to give them the 3 points.

Kempston Rovers Ladies move back up to 4th in the Division Three table with a 7th league win at home to Whetstone Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Working hard for each other Whetstone proved a tough opponent for Kempston Rovers to break down. The deadlock finally broken with Vicki Boyde scoring to make it 1-0 with her first goal for the side. Lucy Harper making to 2-0 to Kempston Rovers, top scorer Ellie Newberry-Bierton with her 9th goal of the season wrapping up a 3-0 win.

A confidence boosting 6-0 home win for Flitwick Eagles Ladies at home to Buntingford last weekend, had the better of the first half this weekend away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies holding a 2-0 advantage at the break. Charlie Newton firing the visiting side into the lead in the 20th minute adding a 2nd goal late in the first half. Jessica Sullivan pulling it back to 2-1 for Bedwell Rangers right at the start of the 2nd half, Flitwick responded straight away to restore their 2 goal lead Newton on target for her hat-trick doubling her tally for the season to 6 goals. Bedwell Rangers fighting back once again to bring it back to 3-2 on the hour, Sullivan scoring again her 12th goal of the season. The game moving into the final 20 minutes, Bedwell Rangers captain Georgia Miller struck with her 8th goal of the season to level the scores at 3-3 and see the sides share the points.

Stotfold Juniors Ladies capitalising on Bedwell Rangers draw winning all 3 points at home on Sunday to climb above them into 6th spot in the Division Three table. Meeting Evergreen Eagles for the 2nd successive Sunday a 4-1 win away from home last weekend a much close scoreline this time around Evergreen Eagles scoring twice, Stotfold on target to score 3 goals to win the game. The goals scored by Holly Konopka, Hope Page and top scorer Chloe Ward with her 12th of the campaign.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

Suffolk Women’s Division

Woodbridge Town Ladies keep marching on at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division onto 42 points now winning their 14th game of the season at the weekend, 6 straight wins now. Were away from home playing Brightlingsea Regent Ladies for the second successive Sunday. A close match in the first encounter Woodbridge winning 2-1. Was close again at the weekend with Brightlingsea holding Woodbridge to a goalless first 45 minutes. With over 40 goals so far this season Jenna Liverpool in on fire in attack for Woodbridge and she was back amongst the goals in the 2nd half netting a brace to move to 45 for the season. Josie Haward also getting a goal to see Woodbridge come out on top 3-1 to return home with the 3 points. Hannah Goldsmith netting her 22nd goal of the season for Brightlingsea.

Games in hand for the sides chasing below and their are several very competitive at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division table. Brettvale Ladies 2nd in the table 3 points behind Woodbridge with a high scoring win away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies at the weekend. Kesgrave short on numbers, Brettvale with plenty of goal scorers in their squad. Tarnya McKew scoring 5 goals in the match racing onto 20 for the season. Gemma Burnett has 4 goals now from 4 appearances as she scored her first hat-trick for the club. Claire Turnbull with her 5th goal of the season adding to the tally Brettvale winning 9-0.

Bury Town Ladies 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division 3 points back form Brettvale were at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies at the weekend. Bury are another side scoring plenty of goals this season those goals spread amongst their squad, 18 different scorers so far this season. 5 goals scored at the weekend without reply to see them won the 3 points, 5 different scorers on the scoresheet too. Julie Brind top scorer for Bury moving onto 19 for the season. Mia Banbury with her 9th of the season. 9 goals too for Stacey Roper, Kirsty Pollard firing in a goal along with Katie Walker running through to score on her Bury debut.

Mixed results for Henley Athletic Ladies in recent matches in the Suffolk Women’s Division have won as may as they’ve lost so far in their debut season in women’s football. A win at the weekend keeping them firmly in the mix for push on the top half of the table were at home playing Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. Enya Moore scoring a hat-trick for Henley to take her a goal behind op scorer Amy Gilson on 11 for the season. Emma Long scoring her 7th goal of the season too along with a goal from Claire Bevan to see Henley run out 5-1 winners. Saskia Gerrald-Cooper scoring the goal for Ramsey & Mistley her first for the club in just her 3rd appearance.

Leiston St Margarets Ladies move up to 10th in the Suffolk Women’s Division winning at home to bottom side University of Suffolk Women on Sunday. Winning 3 of their last 5 matches in the process 10 points collected in that spell. Winning at the weekend 5-0 with goals from Sarah Cooper and Leanne Morphew. A couple more players celebrating their first goals of the season Jessica Coxage and Leanne Fairweather with a brace.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Beginning this weeks county league reviews in Cambridgeshire, 10 games to bring you from the Premiership and Championship played at the weekend. It was to one of these that Women’s Football East headed on Sunday a top of the table game from the Premiership league leaders Peterborough Norther Star Ladies Reserves travelling to take on 2nd placed Haverhill Rovers Ladies, both new to the league this season. Haverhill winning promotion in their debut season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, Peterborough’s Reserve side also into thier 2nd season making the switch from the Northamptonshire county league set-up.

An early injury blow for Haverhill captain, Joely Kirby coming off worse in a collision with the fence surrounding the pitch, left with a bloody head wound needing attention after just 4 minutes on in her place 16-year-old Jenna Wright. Linking up with Sian Cottrell in attack good work on the wing saw Wright cross to Cottrell unmarked just inside the box, turning falling into the shot sent the ball rising up over the keeper to put Haverhill into an early lead. Few chances created after that both sides working hard to keep the other out the keepers rarely tested, Peterborough getting joy out wide in attack. Haverhill leading 1-0 at half-time on a bitterly cold afternoon.

Sian Cottrell opening the scoring for Haverhill Rovers Ladies at the weekend

Peterborough with a bright start to the 2nd period looking to create press the ball the Haverhill defence with some good challenges leaving the visiting side frustrated leading by a single goal Haverhill were in need of a 2nd goal to relieve the pressure and late in the game got themselves into a 2 goal lead Kayleigh Nolan picked out with a great pass out to the right driving on into the box and unleashing a fierce shot, Peterborough goalkeeper Karla Durham getting her gloves down to save the ball parrying it out to the top of the area Wright reacting quickly getting hold of it firing a shot back in taking a wicked deflection sending it pass Durham and into the back of the net. Haverhill clinching a 2-0 win moving back to the top of the Premiership table with 3 games in hand over their opponents. Alot of football still to be played in the league though with several sides well positioned below the top 2.

ICA Sports Ladies move up into 3rd in the Premiership above Leverington Sports Ladies whose match against St Ives Town Ladies Development was called off late on Sunday. Playing a local derby away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday a first half hat-trick from Annie Posnett taking her onto 10 goals for the season seeing ICA Sports holding a 3-0 lead at the break. Netherton rallying in the 2nd half Jenna Nairn pulling a goal back on 65 minutes. Katie Barber with her 8th goal of the season setting up a nervous final 10 minutes firing home to make it 3-2. ICA Sports holding on for the win are 4 points behind leaders Haverhill.

March Town United Ladies move back up to 5th in the Premiership table beating a strong Histon Ladies Reserves team away from home at the weekend. Lauren Threadgold scoring a brace for Histon as they battle for points at the wrong end of the table pushing March close, also seeing a penalty saved by March goalkeeper, Tori Sharpe. A first goal of the season for Chloe Rimmer along with goals from top scorers Emma Searle and Jordan Turner their 7th and 8th goals of the season respectfully helping to secure a 3-2 win.

Ketton Ladies sixth in the Premiership table were hosting Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at the weekend the visitors involved in several high scoring encounters this season unfortunate not to get anything out of the game after they came out on the wrong end of a 4-3 scoreline. This despite a 25th goal of the season for Marie Stubbings with Eleanor Woodley on target to score a brace. Goalkeeper Sam Issacson also saving a penalty for Fulbourn. Ketton have goals in their side too, Fran Kavanagh amongst the goals again herself this season scoring a brace at the weekend to move onto 15 for the season. A goal each for Lauren McKeever and Ellie Marson seeing the 3 points go to the host side.

A third straight league win sees Cambridge University Women sees move up to 8th in the Premiership table. Were hosting newcomers Cambridge City Ladies A at the weekend a morning kick-off on Sunday. A strong performance for Cambridge University beating their opponents 6-0 to claim the 3 points. 10 goals each for the season now for Lidiya Mykhaylechko scoring a hat-trick and Amanda Wainwright on target for a brace. Taylor Lynn-Jones also celebrating a goal.

Cambridge University Women winning 6-0 at the weekend (photo credit Cambridge University Women)

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

A first defeat of the season for Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship leaders Cambridge Rangers Women last Sunday away to Park Ladies, bounced back returning to winning ways this weekend at home to Newmarket Town Women Development. A Sunday morning kick-off Newmarket working hard with the bare 11 holding Cambridge Rangers to a goalless draw at the break. The hosts getting their noses in front in the 2nd half taking the lead from a corner kick. Newmarket going down to 10 losing a player through injury kept on pushing Cambridge Rangers the league leaders going further ahead with the player advantage scoring twice more to win the match 3-0. Their goals scored by Barbara Williams, Robyn Barlow and Hoi Yee Hg.

A home win awarded to Mildenhall Town Ladies over Hungate Rovers Ladies keeps them 2nd in the Championship table but are being rapidly closed down by Pinchbeck United Ladies the gap now just 2 points as they continue their 100% winning start to the season with a 10th straight league win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Helen Barker scoring her first goal for the club at the weekend. Libby Friel netting a hat-trick moving her to 11 for the season. 11 too for the campaign too for Freya Peters who was also amongst the goals for Pinchbeck on Sunday scoring a brace. Pinchbeck winning 6-0 have games in hand on the leading pair too.

A fabulous 1-0 win against leaders Cambridge Rangers Women last weekend seeing Park Ladies make it 5 straight wins in the Championship were looking to make it 6 in a row away to Isleham United Ladies. Isleham winning a close game 2-1 in the reverse fixture before Park begun their winning streak was another close match this weekend, goals for Louisa Harwood her first of the season for Isleham and one for Kate Silver not enough to take anything from the game as Park found the back of their net for 3 goals to come away with the 3 points seeing them close the gap to a point behind 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies who lost on Sunday.

A fantastic start to the season for Cardea Ladies winning their opening 4 league matches have since lost the next 4, on the wrong end of some high scoring matches were involved in another at the weekend their first competitive action of 2020 at home to 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies. Captain, Laura Rudd putting Cardea into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A great first half from the hosts seeing them add a further 2 goals Anna Langa on 19 minutes and Naomi Hall with her first goal of the season on 36. Cardea leading 3-0 at half-time Eaton Socon raced out of the blocks at the start of the 2nd half pulling a goal back straight away and by the 52nd minute the scores were level. Pegged back to 3-3 Cardea rallied keeping Eaton Socon from adding another goal, Rudd with her 10th goal of the season scoring in the 75th minute to see Cardea come out on top in a 7 goal thriller.

Swavesey Spartans Ladies move off the bottom of the Championship table after they earned a point at the weekend away from home to Deeping United Ladies on Sunday. Just one win on the board before the match Daisy Edwards-ainge finding the back of the net to put Swavesey into the lead. Deeping United coming back to see the points shared with Hannah Chapman on target to score her 18th goal of the season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

ERWFL Premier Division

Harlow Town Ladies back to league action this weekend travelling away to St Ives Town Ladies, the Essex side leading the ERWFL Premier Division unbeaten dropping just 2 points this season. St Ives Town promoted to the league this season finding life in the league tough but working hard week in week out to improve. A good performance at the weekend seeing them earn a point against Harlow, St Ives taking the lead in the first half Ruth Fox with a great first touch bringing a pass from halfway down taking it away from the defence running on from 30 yards out into the box the angle against her lifted a superb shot up across the keeper into the far side of the goal to make it 1-0. Harlow coming back to level late in the first period captain Kaydee King always a danger from set-pieces heading the ball on to equalise. Harlow taking the lead in the 2nd half from a free-kick put into the box by Amy Nash, King getting her head on the ball finding it’s way into the back of the net. St Ives Town giving it there all coming back to level the scores and take a share of the point Caitlin McGeown with her first goal of the season. Harlow dropping their first points since the opening day of the season remain unbeaten still.

Ruth Fox with a superb goal to put St Ives Town Ladies into the lead on Sunday (photo credit Gary Reed)

Second placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies close the gap on leaders Harlow to 4 points winning at home to Royston Town Women on Sunday. A good first half from the host side Leah Cudone racing through to beat the offside trap beating the keeper to make it 1-0 in the 18th minute. Peterborough doubling their lead late in the first half Evie Driscoll-King scoring for the 2nd successive match the defender with 5 for the season now. Royston improving 2nd half as they fought to get back into the game Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson with a number of vital saves keeping the clean sheet in tack. Cudone firing in her 18th goal of the season towards the end of the match the seal the victory.

Luton Town Ladies hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game in hand were hosting Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies at the weekend. Luton with a number of chances in the first half frustrated by Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler making several fine saves. The hosts taking the lead late in the first half awarded a penalty, Charlene Moreton finishing from the spot to see the visitors 1-0 up at half-time. Luton getting back onto level terms early in the 2nd half. Finding a way past Butler to take the lead went onto score a further 2 goals, strikers Rebecca Kane and Jess McKay remaining neck and neck on the goal scoring charts both on 16 for the season now McKay with a goal, Kane netting a brace. Luton winning the game 4-1 their was also a first goal of the season for Olivia Abraham.

Bedford Ladies 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division are currently in a rich vein of form themselves making it 6 straight wins in league and cup on Sunday away to 2nd bottom Haringey Borough Women. This their fifth straight league win the 3 points coming courtesy of a 4-1 victory the goals spread amongst their squad 4 different scorers at the weekend Natasha Fensome putting away her 8th goal of the season, Lauren Murray her 5th and Setor Acolatse scoring her 4th of the campaign. Bex Cray the other goalscorer with her 2nd of the season.

ERWFL Division One North

King’s Lynn Town Ladies were aiming to close the gap to ERWFL Division One North leader Cambridge City Ladies Development to 4 points as they travelled down to Suffolk to face AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. A close game between the sides back in November King’s Lynn winning 2-1 at home, this Sunday’s game proving a similar case Sudbury’s young side hard to break down at times both sides creating chances scoring a goal each in the first half the scores level King’s Lynn improving in the 2nd period scoring again with what would prove to be the winning goal the result 2-1 yet again, Emma Corbyn with her 8th goal of the season and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the scoresheet.

Three successive league wins sees Needham Market Women climb up into 3rd spot in the ERWFL Division One North table finding their feet in the league now following promotion last season. Were away to Newmarket Town Women on Sunday. Came out on top of a 7 goal thriller to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture between the sides in November. Another high scoring game between the sides this time around Needham Market starting well have goalscorers throughout their side, taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Francesca Rainbird putting the ball over the top for Annie Northwood to close in on goal drive a shot home. A strong opening period from the visitors restricting Newmarket’s chances doubled the lead in the 34th minute a 30 yard free-kick from Amber Sparks parried onto the post by the keeper Lois Balfour rushing in on the follow up to make it 2-0. Balfour in to score her 10th goal for the 1st team this season making it 3-0 set up by Northwood in the 40th minute. Needham Market 3-0 up at the break.

A great first half from Needham Market on Sunday seeing them leading 3-0 (photo credit Ben Pooley)

Newmarket goalkeeper Ellie Quinn-Nicholls denying Balfour her hat-trick early in the 2nd half. Newmarket capitalising on a mistake in the 65th minute lobbing the keeper from 35 yards out to make it 3-1. Northwood putting Needham Market 4-1 up with the game into the final 15 minutes, her 13th goal of the season a superb half volley. Newmarket fighting to get back into it scoring a 2nd goal following a scramble from a corner in the 85th minute, Bethany Woodfield and Chloe Slater with their goals, Needham Market defending to see them climb into 3rd spot with a 4-2 victory.

ERWFL Division One South

Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to do well in ERWFL Division One South joining the league this season move joint top with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the table after the league leaders saw their match away to Hoddesdon called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Leigh Ramblers away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. A close game between the sides, Emily Schofield with her 11th strike of the season putting Stevenage in front in the 15th minute. Lucy Dalgarno pulling the scores level for Leigh Ramblers 5 minutes later. Goalkeeper Emily Mackler with a number of saves to deny Stevenage seeing the pair level at the break 1-1. Tea Oldroyd kept busy in the Stevenage goal too as Leigh Ramblers pushed forwards in the 2nd half Georgia Holdaway beating her in the 80th minute to score her 9th goal of the season to see Leigh Ramblers clinch the 3 points.

A new arrival can certainly make an impact upon any side and that can definitely be said for Kristina O’Connell at Wodson Park Ladies. A poor beginning to the season which saw them lose their first 6 league games Wodson Park got their first 3 point of the season in mid-December a 3-2 win away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. O’Connell making the switch from Hoddesdon in the New Year. A narrow 2-1 defeat to high flying Leigh Ramblers in their first match of 2020. Wodson Park have now won 3 in a row in league and cup to move away from the bottom of the table. O’Connell scoring successive hat-tricks before this weekend on target for four more goals this weekend taking her to 10 already from just 4 appearances. Wodson Park at home to Lawford Ladies fielding the bare 11. Dempsey Favell also on the scoresheet for Wodson Park in a 5-1 win. Daisy Canny scoring late on in the game for Lawford has 15 for the season.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

On the road this Sunday travelling to play 2nd bottom side Hounslow Women, FAWNL Southern Premier Division leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies had the opportunity to further extend their lead at the top of the table with 2nd placed Watford Ladies due to play their FAWNL Plate quarter final, in the end one of several ties to fall foul to the weather. An 11th win of the season would see Crawley move 6 points clear at the top. Sian Heather opening the scoring for Crawley in the 12th minute tapping in from close range following goo work from Megan Stow out wide. The visitors denied a 2nd goal moments later. Hounslow battling hard as they fight to pull out of the bottom to with a couple of chances forcing a save from Crawley Wasps goalkeeper, Frankie Gibbs, Crawley themselves seeing the woodwork struck from a corner kick held a narrow 1-0 lead at the break.

Crawley with a good beginning to the 2nd period doubling their lead 5 minutes after the restart Natasha Stephens squaring the ball for Charlotte Owen to make it 2-0. Kemina Webber introduced to the action in the 55th minute scoring Crawley’s 3rd goal midway through the half getting the final touch from a Rachel Palmer corner. Heather getting her 2nd of the match with 15 minutes to play went on to score a hat-trick with 10 minutes left putting away the rebound after Emma Plewa’s effort was saved. Crawley Wasps winning 5-0 to move 6 points clear at the top of the Southern Premier Division.

Cardiff City Ladies, 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table made the journey to play Keynsham Town Ladies at the weekend the hosts recently resigning Kerry Bartlett whose goals helped the club to achieve promotion from South West Division One the season before. The visitors going in front in the 17th minute good build up leading to Carrie Jones slotting home to make it 1-0. That the advantage at half-time it was another superb team goal that lead to the visitors doubling their lead midway though the 2nd half Kylie Nolan applying the final touch. Cardiff seeing a penalty saved three minutes later to deny them a 3rd goal. A 2-0 win sees them close the gap to 2nd placed Watford to 3 points albeit having played 2 games more.

Reaching the semi-finals of the FAWNL Plate last weekend, Plymouth Argyle Ladies, returning to the good form shown earlier in the season after a poor run of results in the league, back to back cup wins were at home in the league this weekend taking on Kent side, Gillingham Ladies. Helen Bleazard firing a couple of efforts wide in the early exchanges the hosts winning a penalty in the 17th minute. Captain Katie Middleton putting it away to score her 5th goal of the season and put Plymouth into the lead. Bleazard continuing to test the keeper getting her goal on the half hour an absolute rocket struck in off the post to make it 2-0. That the lead at half-time Plymouth continued to probe for further goals 2nd half. Not all one way traffic Gillingham striking the woodwork from a free-kick Plymouth finishing strong couldn’t add to the scoreline a 2-0 win however seeing them climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table.

FAWNL Cup

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are enjoying another run in the FAWNL Cup competition’s this season. Reaching the semi-finals of the FAWNL Plate last season are into the quarter finals of the Cup itself this season battling their way through earlier rounds twice winning a penalty shoot out were against local rivals Chesham United in the last 8 this weekend meeting them for the 2nd time successive weekend having being them 5-3 last Sunday to reach the Berks and Bucks Women’s County Cup final yet again. Surrendering home advantage to Chesham United on the FAWNL Cup this weekend. The sides pretty evenly matched headed into the half-time interval goalless. Milton Keynes opening the scoring 11 minutes into the 2nd half adding another from a corner in quick succession, Jade Bell and Jessica Driscoll putting them 2-0 up, Chesham pushing for a reply the Milton Keynes defence standing firm keeping them out to reach the semi-final of a national cup for the 2nd successive season.

Milton Keynes Dons will be at home to Northern Premier Division side Stoke City Women in the last 4 of the FAWNL Cup after they beat Huddersfield Town Women away from home at the weekend the tie to be played Sunday 16th February. Sunderland AFC Ladies also reaching the last 4 of the FAWNL Cup with a 4-0 win at home to Derby County Women. At home to in the semi-finals their opponents will be either Portsmouth FC Women or Southampton FC Women, yet another postponement for Portsmouth at the weekend the pair will play on Wednesday all being well.

FAWNL South East Division One

An amazing past few days for Ipswich Town Women beating Huddersfield Town Women to reach the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup last weekend and see them pulled out of the hat to play a dream tie away to holders Manchester City Women. Back to the league this weekend their cup heroics seeing them knocked off the top of the FAWNL South East Division One table by AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A squad full of confidence were back at home to face bottom side Kent Football United. Ipswich winning a corner early in the match the ball fired into the box cleared out to the top of the area straight to midfielder Blue Wilson inside the D sending in a lopping strike over the keeper to make it 1-0 inside 3 minutes scoring her first Ipswich goal in the process. Ipswich dominant creating a host of chances shots blocked on the line the visitors holding Ipswich at bay for half an hour before the lead was doubled Anna Grey cutting inside from the top of the box to send a shot into the far corner. Another goal disallowed for offside Zoe Cossey on hand to score from close range with five minutes of the 1st half remaining. 3-0 up at half-time it didn’t take Ipswich long to get back into their stride at the start of the 2nd half Eloise King on the hour finding the bottom corner to make it 4-0. Kent kept going the end numerous blocks as Ipswich looked to add to their tally but 4-0 it finished Ipswich returning to the top of the league.

Cup exploits too for Billericay Town Ladies had seen them slip down the South East Division One table, in sixth at the start of the weekend is incredibly close in the top half of the table. Billericay played at The Len Salmon Stadium were hosting 2nd bottom side Cambridge City Ladies. The visitors holding Billericay to a goalless first half. Billericay getting the opening goal of the game in the 2nd period pushing players forwards a high ball into the box cleared low towards the top of the area Lucy Jones alert darting onto it to clip a rising shot into the back of the net. A similar move leading to the 2nd goal another high ball in from the right, not clear Zoe Rushen snapping onto it centrally to send a low shot wide of the keeper to make it 2-0. Billericay moving up 3 places into 3rd in the table off the back of their first league game since mid October plenty of cup matches in that time however.

Lucy Jones with the opening goal for Billericay on Sunday (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

Zoe Rushen on target to make it 2-0 to Billericay (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

Plenty of goals too in the final game to bring you from the FAWNL this weekend. Both Stevenage FC Women and Norwich City Women keen to add points to the board to pull them away from getting sucked into the bottom two meeting at the weekend in South East Division One. Chelsea Garrett in good form in front of goal for Norwich this season firing the visitors into the lead in the 5th minute, adding a 2nd to make it 2-0 on 17. Gemma Biggadike lobbing the keeper to pull a goal back for Stevenage on the half hour following good work on the ball from Lucy Webster. Aimee Durrant restoring Norwich’s 2 goal lead in the 37th minute 3-1 up Stevenage responding well late in the half Nicole Emmings receiving the ball on half way seeing the keeper off her line trying her luck and scoring to make it 3-2. Erin Pope equalising for Stevenage in the 45th minute rounding a defender and shooting the initial shot saved in on the follow up to make it 3-3.

Norwich City Women’s striker Chelsea Garrett (photo credit Brian Coombes)

All square at the break Norwich straight back into the lead at the start of the 2nd half Garrett on target for her hat-trick. Both keepers called into action with fantastic saves Garrett scoring her fourth of the game in the 63rd minute putting Norwich 5-3 up with her 18th of the season. Stevenage pressing for a reply Norwich adding a 6th goal in the closing minutes Jodie Drake getting herself on the scoresheet to see Norwich return to Norfolk with 3 valuable points taking them above Stevenage into 8th.

Match Report – Haverhill Rovers Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

Sunday 2nd February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A top of the table clash from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and a match between two debutants on Women’s Football East as 2nd placed Haverhill Rovers Ladies host league leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League growing considerably this season and influx of new sides seeing the Premiership expanded to 13 teams, the Championship below starting the season with 15 sides competing. Alot of football to be played. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves leading the Premiership by a point, Haverhill Rovers Ladies playing catch up a point behind in 2nd with 3 games in hand. Several sides keeping an eye on this top of the table clash too well placed below to mount a challenge on the title themselves.

My first look at Haverhill Rovers Ladies the club re establishing it’s women’s side last season. Strong recruitment seeing alot of experienced and talented players joining the club a 2nd Development side formed originally competing in the Suffolk Women’s Division now in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship. The first team winning promotion from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South last in their debut season pipped to the title by St Ives Town Ladies Development. Joining the expended Premiership this season have made a strong start just one defeat from their opening 8 matches. Playing catch up just a third of their fixtures played a busy few months loom in what is likely to be a hard fought run for the title.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division forming a new Reserves side last season. One season in the Northamptonshire Women’s Football League they make the switch over to Cambridgeshire this season a strong start winning 7 of their opening 11 games getting their matches in where others haven’t seeing them move to the top of the league. In a good position to push on for the remainder of the season.

The New Croft the venue for today’s match the game played on the 3G pitch beside the main stadium. One the outskirts of Haverhill multiple pitches is very much a community club. The 3G pitch itself a good size offering plenty of width, a wide viewing area for spectators with a small seated stand. Tea and coffee available aswell as hot food. A wet start to the day remained overcast a chilly wind building that would get stronger as the afternoon progressed. The 3G pitch seeing plenty of use games earlier in the day over running delaying kick-off by half an hour to allow the sides to warm-up properly.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies starting XI – Chelsea White, Ella Blowes, Georgina Westrope, Beth Harding, Amy Evans, Julie Brown, Kayleigh Steed, Emma Barnes, Kayleigh Nolan, Joely Kirby (C) & Sian Cottrell. Subs- Clair Andrews, Hannah Doyle, Sophie Wing & Jenna Wright.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves starting XI – Karla Durham, Fran Peeling, Demi Fox, Leah Barnes (C), Sarah Beard, Catherine Ray, Eve Lomasney, D’Lacy Phillips, Georgia Clarke, Eleanor Spendlow & Ella Gavaghan. Subs- Shannon Hilton, Kimberley Fairweather & Katie Henry.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Peterborough to get the first half underway wearing black an white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. Haverhill all in red. The ball pressed in the middle early on both sides rushing to get the ball played out with little accuracy in the early exchanges. Eve Lomasney sending it forwards for Eleanor Spendelow to chase up the left side, Ella Blowes back on her to defend win the ball back for Haverhill at the back.

Spendelow looking to make runs out wide left in attack for Peterborough ready to go whenever the midfield regains possession. Haverhill with 3 at the back, Spendelow crossing the ball into the box long across the penalty spot Ella Gavaghan can’t reach it before Haverhill clear.

Haverhill getting numbers back to support the defensive won back Julie Brown carries it forwards left side playing it forwards down the wing Joely Kirby captaining the side giving chase on her shoulder Peterborough captain Leah Barnes a race to the touch line Kirby looking to keep it in Barnes aiming to hold her up run out of room as they come together, Kirby’s momentum seeing her collide with the metal fence surrounding the pitch. Stay’s down hurt play stopped immediately a head injury blood pouring from a wound can’t continue, an early substitution made Jenna Wright on to join Sian Cottrell in attack. Kirby up walking back to the changing room to get her wound attended too.

Haverhill defender Georgina Westrope clearing the ball before Peterborough’s Ella Gavaghan can close her down

The early exchanges remain tentative neither side properly settled as they test each other out. Peterborough making ground on the right wing Georgia Clarke racing with the ball to the touchline squaring a cross into the area Spendlow closing far post cushion the ball down to Gavaghan top of the area her first touch heavy allows Georgina Westrope the chance to get to the ball and clear.

GOAL! The hosts open the scoring good work on the right the ball played forwards to Jenna Wright strong on the ball getting it to Cottrell positioned inside the box right of the D, unmarked, sees the ball into her feet tuning into the striking falling back as she does so aiding her strike sending it up over goalkeeper Karla Durham into the back of the net beyond 1-0.

Sian Cottrell opens the scoring for Haverhill Rovers Ladies

Peterborough get on the offensive straight from the restart Spendelow keeping possession well over halfway left side playing a great crossfield pass spotting Catherine Ray breaking forwards from the middle. Beth Harding standing her ground well top of the area tackling to get the ball away from her. Wright making making an impact since coming on strong on the ball moving out to the left running on flicking a cross into the box with the outside of her boot Kayleigh Nolan closing in on goal from the right the ball too close to the keeper, safely in Durham’s hands.

Peterborough’s Fran Peeling

Coming forwards from the back Fran Peeling looks to combine with Clarke and Ray on the right, Harding breaking up the attack the ball one end than the other neither side holding onto it for long. Lomasney closing down in the middle sending the ball long looking for Spendelow racing on left side into the box, Chelsea White in goal for Haverhill to it first. Kayleigh Steed with a superb pass from midfield Nolan after the ball on the right into the corner, gathers Spendelow tracking back in defence challenging to win the ball.

Kayleigh Steed playing the ball on fro Haverhill

Between then Steed, Brown and Amy Evans are getting hold of the ball on the middle breaking up Peterborough attacks, preventing players getting up to support Gavaghan leading the attack. The hosts pushing forwards winning a corner, keep the ball in their opponents half Brown out to Wright top of the area right side sends in a low strike, Durham having the angle covered down to collect the ball safely. Gavaghan coming back to steal the ball right side turns and heads towards goal, Harding closing in to tackle for Haverhill. White up to claim the ball at her near post as the ball is swung in from a cross on the right.

Lomasney making several well times tackles to get hold of the ball always looking for a forward option from midfield plays the pass out to Spendelow giving chase on the left, Blowes coming across concedes the throw in. Into Gavaghan’s feet coming towards the ball turns looking to power her way into the box outnumbered the ball with Haverhill the break on the ball launched forwards Wright after it, bouncing an awkward one fro Peterborough full back Demi Fox to deal with keeps her eye on the ball as she jumps in front of the onrushing Wright making the clearance off balance falls bashing her head painfully on the 3G surface. another pause in play. Up after treatment able to continue.

Demi Fox playing the ball for Peterborough

A cagey game neither side getting the better of the other fairly even, Peterborough making runs out wide not capitalising in the middle, congested at times Haverhill constantly looking to spread the play. Both sides quick to recover in defence, Harding coming across the back line to deal with the threat of Spendelow as she gets in behind into the box from another good ball from Lomasney aiming to pick out Gavaghan central, Harding intercepts her block deflecting the ball safely back to her keeper.

D’Lacy Phillips bringing the ball on for Peterborough setting up an attack finding Spendelow left side players rush up from midfield to out number the Haverhill defence Spendelow firing the ball inside taken into her stride by Ray has Gavaghan running ahead of her, feeds the ball on into the box, Westrope having gone with Gavaghan lunging in with the challenge to take the ball away from her. Peterborough prevent Haverhill counter attacking the ball fired into Spendlow 25 yards out on the left of the fires in a shot the ball plucked down and caught by White.

Peterborough midfielder, D’lacy Phillips

Brown bringing the ball on through the middle played forwards for the pacy Nolan to chase, quick by the ball picks up speed on the 3G and is away from her before she can keep it in play. Peterborough make a double change bringing off Phillips and Fox coming off, Katie Henry and Kimberley Fairweather coming on further positional changes seeing Spendelow pushed up to join Gavaghan in the attack Ray going into the defence. The visiting side applying some pressure towards the end of the first half up on the right the cross into the six yard box Spendelow jumping with the keeper the ball loose a shot fired in on goal blocked on the line.

Haverhill defender, Ella Blowes playing the ball up field

Emma Barnes on the move with the ball left side for Haverhill her cross in cut out by Sarah Beard deflected behind goal for a corner. Fired in low very nearly an own goal the ball sent in towards goal at the near post cleared straight to Barnes a shot lashed back in Peterborough turn to block on the line. Brown getting across to tackle Ray as she comes on with the ball turning infield, possession quickly regained the ball launched out to the right taken on by Clarke her cross from the byline comfortably dealt with by Westrope.

Half-time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 1-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

Half-time and Haverhill hold a narrow lead 1-0 up takes to an early goal from Sian Cottrell. Few clear cut chances over all both sides working hard cancelling each other out to a degree, Haverhill strong in the centre of the park making it hard for Peterborough to get numbers forwards Ella Gavaghan often isolated in attack. Peterborough on the whole solid at the back themselves neither keeper tested. Perfectly set up for the 2nd half.

Getting very chilly now the wind picking up swirling across the ground. Peterborough staying out on the pitch during the interval. Haverhill back out taking kick-off no changes for either side. Peterborough quick out of the blocks the ball closed down Fairweather playing it out to the right a throw won inside the Haverhill half from that Henry sending a cross into the area cleared by Westrope. Haverhill bring it forwards, Peterborough across the close down preventing the break Ray played onto the ball left side charges forwards cutting inside into the box run off the ball by Blowes.

Haverhill’s Julie Brown winning the header against Peterborough’s Eleanor Spendelow

Great work by Brown strong to win the ball back in front of her defence turn looks up sees Nolan on the move right side sends the diagonal ball in her direction, Durham seeing Nolan’s run to racing out of her area to get her foot through the ball first. Wright is proving a handful in attack for Haverhill strong on the ball shaking off her marker getting on in behind, Beard comes across to challenge put the ball away from a throw. Is becoming an end to end encounter Peterborough launch it forwards through the middle Gavaghan 25 yards out, back to goal with a glancing header to knock it down to Spendlow to her left, the attackers then with a one tow Spendelow into Gavaghan’s feet she lays it back for Spendelow to strike swinging through the air off target White across her line to gather.

Eleanor Spendelow constantly looking for an attacking opportunity for Peterborough

Evan’s on the ball for Haverhill coming forwards sends i on for Nolan out wide on the right looks to take on Ray jink inside her the full back sticking a leg across snatching the ball just in time. Peterborough coming forwards better now Gavaghan benefiting from the support able to impose herself on the game more. Haverhill busy in defence but between them, Blowes, Westrope and Harding are standing firm. The hosts make their 2nd change of the game Steed coming off, on in her place club captain Clair Andrews making her return to full fitness after spending the last 5 months out through injury.

Eve Lomasney bringing the ball on attacking for Peterborough

Lomasney operating out on the left now picking the ball up running at the Haverhill box lines up a strike from 20 yards out the ball charged down by Westrope. Has been a frustrating afternoon for Nolan so far a willing runner the ball just won’t run favourably for her, a heavy tough letting her down this time. An intriguing contest time running out, Peterborough looking likely to find a goal, Haverhill you think need a 2nd to give themselves some breathing room. A corner won by Wright on the left fired into the area Peterborough defending headed behind for a corner on the right. Put into the six yard box chested down by Brown swings into the shot struck hard blocked, Fairweather onto the loose ball brings it away for the visitors.

Haverhill’s Beth Harding

GOAL! 15 minutes left on the clock and Haverhill get that much needed 2nd goal. Peterborough are attacking play broken up Evens getting hold of the ball keeping it well before turn and playing a great ball out to the right wing for Nolan, all previous frustration forgotten as she collects the ball into her run surges on into the area and blasts a shot goalwards on the angle driven in low Durham on her line down well to save gloving the ball out towards the top of her area, Wright forwards getting hold of it smashing a shot back in takes a deflection send it past the stranded keeper to nestle in the back of the net… an own goal? I don’t think so and nor does Wright as she celebrates her first goal for the club 2-0.

Peterborough make a change bringing on Shannon Hilton for Spendelow. The visitors awarded a free-kick outside the Haverhill box on the right side Clarke on it attempts for goal her shot wide at the far post. Harlow’s turn to make a change Evans the player coming off on comes Hannah Doyle. Wright lively in attack away in behind as Peterborough push up, Durham out of her box to win the ball. Fairweather in with a strong challenge to win the ball outside the Haverhill box pushed onto Gavaghan, Harding diving in to close her down get the ball for the hosts.

Haverhill’s Amy Evans bringing the ball forwards

Fairweather in again to get hold of the ball keep Peterborough in the final third out to Lomasney on the left her first touch sending the ball on into the area a race with Westrope the defender winning it concedes the corner kick. Taken short up the line to Peeling, Westrope races out of the box to close her down charging down her attempted cross. Time running out Peterborough with a double change, Phillips and Spendelow back on, Lomasney and Gavaghan taken off.

Game management needed from Haverhill late on keep hold of the ball inside the Peterborough half don’t invite pressure. A quickly taken free-kick on half way from Peterborough launched up towards the area headed out of the box drops straight to Hilton 25 yards out slices her 1st times shot drops wide of goal. Up the field late on in stoppage time Peterborough fire a cross in from the right brought down comfortably by Brown back in defence carries the ball away from danger as the final whistle blows. Haverhill winning 2-0 to return to the top of the Premiership table.

Full time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 2-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves

A hard fought victory for Haverhill Rovers Ladies taking an early lead in the game, Peterborough making them work of the 3 points coming on strong in the 2nd half chances for both Haverhill looking solid in defence really needing that 2nd goal late on to dull their opponents attack. A good contest and both will face several more before the season’s over alot of football still to be played. Haverhill top by 2 points with 3 games over Peterborough others not far behind either the expanded league proving intriguing.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Several contenders once again and like last weekend another tough decision to decide this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Peterborough, Eve Lomasney was excellent in midfield especially first half looking to get thing’s going further forwards for the visitors. Eleanor Spendelow too lively out wide on the left making good runs and looking to set up others. Haverhill were impressive as a unit especially at the back particularly Georgina Westrope and Beth Harding. Julie Brown in midfield breaking up several Peterborough attacks not letting much get away from her. Today’s award though goes to attacker Jenna Wright coming off the bench early on made an impact straight away strong on the ball good work leading up to setting up Sian Cottrell for the opening goal. A threat all game scoring the 2nd goal.

Enjoyed my first outing to The New Croft. My thanks to both teams for giving me those all important team details always appreciated will be a keen observer watching the battle for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title unfold.