Category Archives: Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 07/05/17

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 7th May

It was the final day of the season in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League and with the leagues all done and dusted last Sunday the venue was AFC Kempston Rovers FC for this season’s Cup Finals. Two competitions this year the League Cup which was to be contested by Watton Ladies & Houghton Athletic Ladies along with the newly named secondary cup competition The Chris Renshaw Trophy. The 1st final to be contested by Sandy Ladies & Sharnbrook WFC. Both games were covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and the match report from both finals can be read below.

Beds & Herts – The Chris Renshaw Trophy

Cup Final Report – Sandy Ladies v Sharnbrook WFC

The end of the season in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League this Sunday the league all done and dusted ends with a cup final double at AFC Kempston Rovers FC, the League Cup Final to come but 1st off a new competition, The Chris Renshaw Trophy. The final two Sandy Ladies v Sharnbrook WFC.

Named in memory of Chris Renshaw a former member of the Beds & Herts Women’s Football Committee and the ERWFL beyond who gave so much to support the game before his passing this competition named in his honour, a secondary competition with the sides knocked out of the League Cup itself before the quarter final stage being entered.

It’s a while ago now in the history of the blog but Sandy Ladies v Sharnbrook WFC was my 1st experience of women’s football in the county leagues. Not that they were the clubs I had intended seeing that Sunday, stuck in traffic and no chance of getting to my game I rolled past the sign for Sandy and determined I was going to get a match in turned left. Arrived 15 minutes before kick-off and the 2 sides couldn’t have been any more helpful to me. Nice to see them once again and give them a little more respect as they contest the 1st ever final for The Chris Renshaw Trophy.

A change of management for both since that game, Sandy Ladies have had a very strong season in what was a highly competitve Division One this season have led the table for most of the campaign entering the final weekend were 3 points clear of both 2nd placed Sherrardswood Ladies and 3rd placed Bishops Stortford Ladies who they faced just a week ago. Heart ache in the end as Sandy Ladies were beaten 4-2 ending up in 3rd on goal difference, Bishops Stortford Ladies pipping Sherrardswood Ladies to the title by a single goal! The Chris Renshaw Trophy an opportunity for Sandy Ladies to end the season with some silverware.

Sharnbrook WFC were relegated that season, but under new management bounced back at the 1st attempt winning the Division Two title. Had a strong start to the season upon their return to Division One getting games in where others didn’t, injuries took a toll and lack of action saw them drop down the table as others got into their stride. Eventually finishing 7th, like Sandy have a great opportunity to end the season lifting a piece of silverware.

Road to the Final

Sandy Ladies were handed a Bye in the 1st Round of the competition progressing to the quarter-finals where they were drawn at home to fellow Division One side Letchworth Garden City Eagles won the match 2-1 to reach the semi-finals with an away trip to St Albans Ladies also from Division One both in title contention at the time it was a close game chances for both sides a single goal winning the game Chloe Reeves scoring it for Sandy Ladies to see them into the final.

Sharnbrook WFC were at home in the 1st Round taking on Division Two side Garston Ladies FC 96 progressed to the quarter finals with a comfortable 7-1 win. An away trip to Division Three side Evergreen Eagles, Sharnbrook WFC booked their place in the semi-finals with a 5-2 win. Away again took on Division Two side Flitwick Ladies winning the game to reach the final of the competition.

The venue for today’s Finals, AFC Kempston Rovers FC in Bedfordshire, south west of Bedford itself. A large clubhouse with bar and refreshments booth on one side of the ground housing the changing rooms. A seated area along with terracing beside a wide pitch fairly firm and dry as are most pitches in the region after an unusually dry April. All weather training pitches on the opposite side. A hot and sunny afternoon little cloud around the breeze warm a good start to May.

Sandy Ladies starting XI – Amie Fage, Alicia Cobb, Meghan Roles, Pearl Houghton, Faye Prout, Kayleigh Bennett, Harriet Ford, Claire Ashwell, Katie Seldon (C), Kirstie Gavin & Chloe Reeves.
subs – Kirsty Bates, Grace Lavelle, Lauren Bullen, Abigail Stock & Kerrie Knight.

Sharnbrook WFC starting XI – Summer Ronayne, Sarah Fuller, Mel Harradine, Gemma Franklin, Laura Strange (C), Tracy Hutchinson, Claire Smith, Emily Clark, Charlie Mullins, Sian Cunningham & Emma Butler.
subs – Becky Dadd Scarlett Betts, Haley Traette-Reynolds, Chantelle Harris, Jackie Dadd & Helen Spalding.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

An injury blow for Sandy before today’s final with top scorer Amber Williams out injured on 13 for the season she is one ahead of Chloe Reeves leading the line today. It’s Sharnbrook to get the 1st half underway wearing their away colours, yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks with Sandy lined up opposite wearing red shirts with white across the chest and sleeves, red shorts and socks. An early chance for Sharnbrook the ball played out to Charlie Mullins on the left side plays the ball inside looking to thread the ball in behind as Mullins runs forwards takes a favourable slice in behind off a defender Mullins latches onto it on the edge of the area doesn’t get a firm connection the ball runs straight along the ground into goalkeeper Amie Fage’s gloves.

Sandy press forwards on the left the ball played inside helped on to Claire Ashwell on the left wins Sandy a throw in, Sharnbrook win the ball send it up field, Pearl Houghton collects at the back for Sandy plays it on for Ashwell on the right side she sends a long diagonal ball up into the area with striker Chloe Reeves looking to get on the end of the pass, does so but is halted in her attack by the offside flag.

Sian Cunningham is finding some space on the right for Sharnbrook, captain Katie Seldon picks her out taking the ball up the line her cross is easily gathered by Fage at her near post. Kirstie Gavin links up with Ashwell on the right side from a throw in moving forwards Gavin cuts the ball back for Ashwell to send forwards up towards Reeves centrally positioned back to goal outside the box looks to head the ball on and get in behind the Sharnbrook defence, marking her captain Laura Strange has backed off reading the strikers intention giving her the room she needs to reach the ball 1st and clear.

An early change for Sharnbrook an injury to Cunningham, she comes off, Chantelle Harris comes on. From a free-kick on halfway Sharnbrook’s Emma Butler chases the ball up the left has support from Mullins knocks the ball on as she goes past her closely marked by Sandy’s Alicia Cobb, Mullins turned back as she reached the top of the area plays the ball back into Butler taking it inside looks to pull the trigger, her shot from outside the box is charged down by Sandy’s Faye Prout.

Emma Butler on the attack for Sharnbrook WFC

Off a throw in on the left Butler and Mullins combine again this time Mullins playing the ball up the line for Butler squares the ball across the six yard box, Prout is there to cut the cross out. Attacking up the right for Sharnbrook, Tracy Hutchinson sees her cross claimed by Fage at her near post. Sharnbrook give away a free-kick inside their own half wide right, Kayleigh Bennett to take her ball up towards the area is deflected into Gavin’s path strikes it early looping up into the box right of goal, Sharnbrook keeper, Summer Ronayne comes for it doesn’t take her eye of the ball despite runners from Sandy closing in takes the catch cleanly.

Kirstie Gavin bringing the ball down for Sandy Ladies

Harriet Ford coming on for Sandy plays the ball into Gavin moving left side outside the Sharnbrook box shifting the ball between her feet takes a shot the strike closed down and blocked by Sharnbrook’s Mel Harradine. Sandy retaining possession inside the Sharnbrook half as the game moves into the 20th minute. Butler latches onto a miscued goalkick from Fage, takes it on into the box, Prout on her shoulder, Fage recovers well slides in to save the ball at the strikers feet.

Attacking down the left Sandy fire the ball into Reeves 25 yards out back to goal brings it down superbly rolling her marker and getting a shot away, comes in quickly towards the near post, Ronayne has it covered gloves the head height ball down and gathers. Sharnbrook make a 2nd change taking of Richardson bring on Haley Traette-Reynolds. Reeves pressuring the ball up top wins Sandy a corner kick taken short up to Reeves outside the box on the right plays it in for Gavin inside the D, goes to barge her way through into the box 2 defenders all converge on her no way past.

Sharnbrook WFC’s Gemma Franklin with Sandy’s Harriet Ford

Ford does well in the middle seeing the ball into her body turns and sends Gavin away down the left, taking the ball into the box looks to stab it past Ronayne as she starts to come the Sharnbrook keeper makes a great save with her foot. Sandy make a change Ashwell comes off, Kirsty Bates enters the game. Moving into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half a hot afternoon a wide pitch Sandy are seeing more of the ball win a corner on the left the ball an in swinger comes in centrally, Ronayne calls for it the ball pops out of her gloves she recovers smartly to claim the ball at the 2nd attempt.

GOAL! Sandy take the lead late in the 1st half the ball form the left rolled into Reeves 30 yards out controls well holding of her marker, Gavin furthest forwards moves to her right top of the D, Reeves turning picks her out, Gavin has room in behind, Ronayne comes rushing out to the edge of the area in an attempt to stop her shot, Gavin’s strike is almost stopped by the keeper but instead is deflected on behind into the goal beyond 1-0.

Kirstie Gavin with the opening goal in the final

Harris defends well from a corner kick heading the ball clear of her area for Sharnbrook. Harris getting up field wins a corner for Sharnbrook as the 1st half moves into the final minute. A good delivery Houghton heads it away from the six yard box falling for Strange back peddling at the top of the area she lift her leg attempting to wrap her foot around the ball connects her effort is charged down by the onrushing Sandy defence. Sharnbrook push forwards for one last attack in the 1st half Mullins on the ball left side sends a diagonal ball up towards the penalty spot but Gemma Franklin furthest forwards for Sharnbrook can’t get her head on the ball before Fage can claim it.

Half-time Sandy Ladies 1-0 Sharnbrook WFC

A narrow advantage for Sandy Ladies as the 2 sides leave the field for half-time a 1st half of few chances, Sandy have had more of the ball particularly at the end of the half pushing on Reeves always on to receive the ball, well supported by Gavin up top. Neither goalkeeper overly worked Sharnbrook defending well the ball not sticking further forwards. 1 goal in it however all to play for 2nd half. Sandy to get it under way. Sharnbrook move in on the ball quickly turn play around, Butler is flagged offside as she gets in behind into the area from the left.

Traette-Reynolds gets hold of the ball for Sharnbrook left side outside the box, twists and turns looking for a way in, Butler makes a run inside through the middle, Traette-Reynolds tries to pick her out goalkeeper Fage coming off her goal line can get to it first. Sandy get forwards up the right Ford sending the ball up the line getting a throw in players moving up the pitch level with the top of the area the ball is played into the feet of Seldon right corner sends a shot in towards goal dipping Ronayne getting down to meet it makes the save.

Haley Traette-Reynolds getting the ball under her control.

Fuller defends for Sharnbrook as the ball is played up the line Gavin looking to get hold of it on the left winning the ball the defender clears up into the centre of midfield the ball helped on to Traette-Reynolds breaking down the left side a powerful to take her into the box her shot is blocked by Cobb deflected beyond her runs straight into her keepers gloves. A fast start to the 2nd half Bennett in the middle for Sandy has the ball cleared from her defence into her sends it long with Reeves looking to get in behind is away, Ronayne is on the move too gets the the ball just outside her area to kick clear before the striker reach it.

Chloe Reeves looks to get away from Sharnbrook WFC captain Laura Strange

Sharnbrook get the ball up the other end slotted through the middle into Butler plays an early pass out to Mullins peeling in behind on the left into the box with the ball takes on the shot, Fage across to cover her near post takes the ball into her body dropping low. Sandy make a change bringing off Seldon, Grace Lavelle coming on. Traette-Reynolds wins Sharnbrook a corner kick on the right the ball is swung in near post Sandy’s Meghan Roles gets her head on the ball to clear, Emily Clark getting hold of the ball outside the box looks to send it back in her volley flies wide. Sharnbrook make a change up top Butler comes off with Cunningham coming back on.

Sarah Fuller with the defensive header for Sharnbrook WFC

Sandy break getting the ball into space on the left for Lavelle to run into drives all the way into the box closing in on the six yard box looks to use the outside of her boot to square the ball into the centre for Reeves, Sharnbrook’s Harradine cuts the ball out runs back to Lavelle strikes it 1st time the rising ball striking the side netting. Good running from Traette-Reynolds down the right wing getting in behind the Sandy defence sends a cross into the middle too close to the keeper Fage catches before Mullins coming in from the left can reach it.

Grace Lavelle brings the ball forwards for Sandy Ladies

Bates gets on the ball for Sandy taking it forwards has Lavelle aiming to get into the area lifts the ball over the top, lands of Lavelle’s shoulder as she is tracked into the box dropping to her right loses sight of it momentarily giving the Sharnbrook defence a chance to recover it and clear. A free-kick for Sharnbrook as Traette-Reynolds is brought down on the right inside the Sandy half the ball is send long up to her inside the bo, ducking under the ball, Cunningham has made the run in behind the angle against her strikes the ball on the half volley a good effort however the ball screws away from goal.

Changes for both sides Lauren Bullen on for Sandy replacing Gavin. Jackie Dadd on for Sharnbrook in place of Betts. Sandy are finding a little bit more energy getting forwards now Bullen with a central run is stopped by Clark. Reeves picks up the ball from the right time and space 30 yards out sends her shot over the bar. Roles comes off for Sandy, Kerrie Knight coming on as the game moves into the last 15 minutes. Traette-Reynolds is substituted for Sharnbrook, Smith going back on soon after Helen Spalding comes on to replace Strange.

GOAL! Sandy double their lead the ball from Ford into Bullen sees her drive on towards the area 25 yards out hits a powerful shot in towards goal, Ronayne saves it with her foot deflecting the all away to her right, retrieved on the byline by Reeves is sent back in towards the near post area inside the six yard box Bullen is their following up and turned the ball past the keeper blasting the ball into the back of the net 2-0 her 1st goal for the club too.

Lauren Bullen scores to makes it 2-0 for Sandy Ladies

Bates comes off for Sandy Abigail Stock coming on with less than 10 minutes left. Ashwell returns to the action after Houghton takes a knock at the back. Ford and Reeves are rested too, Gavin and Seldon back on Seldon blocking a strike from outside the box by Mullins as Cunningham gets the ball into her from the right. Sharnbrook push forwards late on Mullins putting a shot wide across the face of goal a she is slide in left side into the box.

Sandy have dropped deep late on despite the 2-0 lead inviting Sharnbrook onto then, Prout intercepting a ball played forwards by Franklin. Pushing up are caught on the counter as trying to clear the ball it in deflected in behind Cunningham after it clear to run at goal, Fage racing out to the top of her area saves well with her legs. Despite the late pressure from Sharnbrook, Sandy hold on and celebrate winning The Chris Renshaw Trophy at the final whistle.

Full time Sandy Ladies 2-0 Sharnbrook WFC

Hot out there a great effort from both sides Sandy claiming the win leading by a single goal at the break created the better chances not making the result safe until the latter stages of the match end their season on a high with a 3rd place finish and silverware. Sharnbrook had their opportunities but not clinical didn’t convert them.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A solid defensive display from Sandy Ladies in today’s final and Faye Prout is narrowly beaten to the SWF Blog – Player of the Match by fellow centreback Pearl Houghton good positioning making some important interceptions and cutting out through balls winning more than her fair share of tackles too.

Congratulations to Sandy Ladies on winning The Chris Renshaw Trophy Final.

The Chris Renshaw Trophy Winners, Sandy Ladies

My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the teams today very much appreciated.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final

Cup Final Report – Watton Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies

Onto the 2nd of today’s Beds & Herts Finals game, the Women’s League Cup with Watton Ladies or Houghton Athletic Ladies looking to win the trophy for the 1st time this afternoon.

For Watton Ladies based at Watton at Stone in Hertfordshire this is an opportunity to win a league and cup double having already won the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two title to earn promotion back to Division One after a two season absence finishing 8 points clear of what was proving to be a competitive league. Have scored plenty of goals this season with Frankie Smithers way out in front as top scorer netting 32 goals so far.

Joining the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League in the 2014/15 season Houghton Athletic Ladies based in Houghton Regis in Bedfordshire have been on the rise since 2 successive promotions to reach Division One finishing 6th in the table have reached their 1st ever final. Emma Hawkes and Ciara Craig are the clubs top scorers this season with 10 goals each. Most of the players have come through the youth side progressing into women’s football.

Road to the Final

Watton Ladies began their league cup campaign away to fellow Division Two side Flitwick Ladies in the 1st Round winning the tie 3-1 to advance to the 2nd Round where again they were drawn away to another Division Two side Hitchin Belles plenty of goals scored in this one Hitchin Belles scoring 4, Watton going on to win the game 7-4. Another away trip in the quarter finals and again it was Division Two opposition, Evergreen Ladies. Watton Ladies winning 3-1 to reach the semi-finals were they were on the road for the 4th successive tie this time up against Division One side Hitchin Town Ladies coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller winning the game 4-3 to reach the final of the League Cup.

Houghton Athletic Ladies started their league cup campaign at home in the 1st Round taking on Division Three newcomers Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues a 3-0 victory seeing them safely into the 2nd Round. At home against Sharnbrook WFC who had come up with them to Division One this season a good result winning 5-0 to reach the quarter-finals. Drawn away to Division Two side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets it was a close game a narrow win for Houghton Athletic Ladies going through to the semi-finals with a 4-3 win. A tough test in the semi-finals drawn away to fellow Division One side Bishops Stortford Ladies who would go on to win the title. The game going all the way to extra-time 0-0 after 90 minutes. Shakeela Hussain scoring the goal that sent Houghton Athletic Ladies into today’s League Cup Final.

Refuelled with a fish finger bap during the break between matches. If anything it’s gotten warmer as the afternoon moves on difficult conditions for both sides to play in hot and dusty out on the pitch. A good crowd building for the game.

Watton Ladies starting XI – Dionne Batchelor, Zoe Hammick, Zoe Garvey, Heidi Nash (C) Kerry-Anne Paul, Beth Willing, Lizzie Dowton, Emma Carter, Sammy Edgar, Chloe Jones & Frankie Smithers.
subs – Codie Page, Kirsty Richardson, Mollie Rouse, Chloe Hazelwood, Heather Dean, Bethan Love & Gemma Penny.

Houghton Athletic Ladies starting XI – Sophie Wicks, Jodie Patterson, Georgia Casey, Emily Peat, Emily Fearn (C), Rachel Spendelow, Sinead Borsah, Shakeela Hussain, Ciara Craig, Holly Thompson & Charlotte Ross.
subs – Kelly Rees, Charlotte Cook, Louise Spendelow, Victoria Peck.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Watton to get the League Cup Final started taking kick-off wearing yellow shirts with black shorts and socks. Houghton lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with white sleeves and across the top of the chest, blue shorts and socks. Houghton are straight out of the blocks pressing Watton on the ball in the centre of midfield, Rachel Spendelow getting the ball out to the right Houghton have a free-kick the ball send long up into the box runners peeling in behind goalkeeper Dionne Batchelor is well placed to catch the ball.

Holly Thompson taking the ball out to the right for Houghton wins her side a corner kick and inswinging delivery, Kerry-Anne Paul heads the ball away for Watton, Sammy Edgar on for Frankie Smithers up top looking to find space on the right is tackled the ball away for a throw-in. Zoe Garvey comes forwards from right back to take it for Watton has a big throw n her tries to pick out Chloe Jones positioned just inside the area on the right, jumps the ball over her Smithers trying to get there, Spendelow falling back as the ball drops to her kicks it away.

Launching a quick counter attack the ball put up through the middle Ciara Craig is away getting onto the ball, Batchelor comes charging out of her area to meet her blocks the ball with her hands as Craig tries to lift it beyond her, the referee blows up a decision to be made a clear goal scoring chance denied? Batchelor is well out of her area, defenders were recovering both sides, early in the game the goalkeeper is shown a yellow card an indirect free kick for Houghton. The set-piece rolled into Shakeela Hussain shoots high on target, Batchelor gets her gloves up to make the save the ball dropping down into the six yard box is cleared off the line a nervous start from Watton.

Watton’s Beth Willing pressuring the ball high up the field on the right gets in behind Houghton’s Jodie Patterson looking to run on with the ball the defender gets back on her to tackle and put the ball out for the throw. Houghton win the ball put into the box on for Sinead Borsah passes it out to Thompson moving out to the right wing the ball is cut back in towards the corner of the area with Craig on the move Emma Carter intercepts and clears for Watton.

Smithers taking the ball out to the left channel as Jones heads it on for her cutting back inside crosses from the edge of the box just beyond Carter inside the area, retrieves it back to goal forced the other way, Jones tries to support they try the give and go doesn’t quite come off. A frustrating start for Watton a few arguments between players. Houghton come on through the middle, Borsah inside the box getting the ball played into her from the right by Thompson lays it back out to Hussain all of 25 yards out strikes the ball early her effort sailing over the crossbar.

Houghton Athletic Ladies, Sinead Borsah

Edgar looks to get on the ball for Watton in the middle bringing it on looks to play it over the top for Willing ahead of her, Emily Fearn Houghton’s captain gets her head on the ball to stop the attack. Garvey carries the ball down the right for Watton fires a diagonal ball low in towards the box, Fearn cuts it out deflected in behind goalkeeper Sophie Wicks comes across diving to claim the ball stopping it going behind for the corner as Smithers closes her down. Houghton make a change bringing off Ross sending on Louise Spendelow, Rachel’s twin sister.

Watton Ladies, Frankie Smithers with Houghton’s Louise Spendelow

Houghton maintain their great start to the game pressing forwards Craig puts the ball into Hussain left of the D outside the box sends a low shot in towards goal runs narrowly wide of the near post. Willing charges down the ball for Watton inside the Houghton half moving left down the line cuts inside looks to fire the ball across the 18 yard box with Jones coming in, Borsah tracking back wins it for Houghton launches a counter attack the ball up into Hussain making the run through the middle, Zoe Hammick gets back on the attacker tackling to win the ball. Half an hour of the 1st half played the referee calls for a drinks break is very hot out there and dusty.

Sammy Edgar

Houghton win a throw deep on the right from the restart played inside to Rachel Spendelow she sends a high ball looping up into the box far post with Hussain closing in Batchelor keeps her eye on the ball makes a good claim. Edgar comes out with the ball from a 50/50 challenge bringing it on rolls the pass on for Smithers strikes the ball from outside the area along the ground, Wicks gets down to her left makes a good stop even as the ball bobbles up before her.

A free-kick for Watton won on the left inside the Houghton half the ball lofted up into the area, Fearn headers it clear unchallenged. 38 minutes of the 1st half played. Garvey with the throw in on the right for Watton puts it into Edgar right corner of the box, tries to lay it off for Jones who in return looks to put it in behind with Edgar spinning off her marker the ball is cut out cleared back to Garvey on the right her cross goes long towards the far post, Lizzie Dowton can’t bring it down under her control quick enough before being closed down.

GOAL! As with the earlier final the opening goal comes late in the 1st half, Houghton having been the better side take the lead the ball cleared at the back up to Craig breaking in behind over the halfway line knocking the ball on Batchelor has come rushing out of her area whenever Houghton play the ball in behind her defence. Comes running out to close Craig down, getting her shot away early Craig lobs the advancing keeper the ball bouncing its way into the empty net beyond 0-1.

Ciara Craig gives Houghton Athletic
Ladies the lead

A double switch for Houghton, Hussain and Thompson off, Ross comes back on along with Charlotte Cook. Smithers closing the ball down for Watton pressures Houghton into giving away a corner kick, a good delivery into the far post Jones gets up to head the up, looping into the air, Wicks catches it cleanly as it falls. Edgar latches onto a defensive clearance 30 yards out splitting the Houghton centrebacks puts the ball into Smithers moving to the right inside the area is falling as the ball runs across her gets a shot away but not in control of the ball it swerves away from the near post behind for the goal kick.

Into stoppage time in the 1st half Houghton have a corner kick as Dowton cuts out a cross, taken from the right, Edgar near side headers the ball over for another corner, this one cleared Watton try to break the ball is won back by Houghton, Emily Peat with Craig link up the ball sent on up into the area, Batchelor gets down to smother the ball.

Half-time Watton Ladies 0-1 Houghton Athletic Ladies

The second final of the day sees one side leading the other by a single goal the advantage to Houghton after a strong 1st half performance pressing Watton early taking advantage of their nervous start without finding an early goal creating chances and getting players forwards. Craig getting the break through late in the half. Watton have had a few half chances but for the larger part of the 1st half have found themselves on the back foot passes going astray but with just a single goal in it are far from out of the final.

Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd half Gemma Penny on for Watton, Fearn off for Houghton, Houghton get the 2nd half underway getting forwards the ball into Hussain outside the area left side rolls it across for Rachel Spendelow running onto the ball 20 yards out blasts a shot in towards goal, Batchelor with a good save getting her gloves up to deflect the ball away to her right Cook running onto it blazes her strike over the bar.

Houghton attack the ball with Craig left side takes it into the box before firing a cross in towards Rachel Spendelow can’t quite get there, Peat beyond her brings the ball down puts her foot trough the shot deflects off Dowton spinning away for a corner kick. Louise Spendelow to put into the area, Paul gets it away for Watton. Getting up field for Houghton, Louise Spendelow wins a corner the ball played in towards the near post Watton captain Heidi Nash heads the ball clear from danger. Just wide from Craig shooting from outside the box left side a Peat plays the ball into her, with the keeper rushing out to meet her gets the ball past her rolls narrowly wide of the far post.

Watton Ladies captain Heidi Nash

Another opportunity for Craig a minute later as she latches onto a defensive clearance 30 yards out shifts the ball onto her right foot puts her strike over the crossbar. Houghton make a change Fearn going back on with Rachel Spendelow coming off.

GOAL! Houghton double their lead capitalising on their good start to the 2nd half attacking down the left wing the shot/cross is fired into the six yard box Batchelor gets down to it makes the stop hasn’t got the ball however pushing it across the face of goal Craig is the nearest and buries the ball into the back of the net 0-2. 23 minutes left on the clock.

Ciara Craig with her 2nd of the game for Houghton Athletic Ladies

Has been all Houghton 2nd have dominating the ball Watton can’t find their attackers. Edgar has been fired up all game for Watton winning the ball surges forwards through the middle, Borsah goes with her putting in a good tackle to win the ball just as Edgar thinks about shooting. Peat pulls up holding the top of her leg as she looks to run in behind on the right, the referee calls the trainer on and signals a drinks break. Play resumes a double switch for Houghton Peat and Borsah off, Cook and Rachel Spendelow return to the pitch.

Ross brings the ball out from the back for Houghton no one comes to challenge so she carries it over half way riding the tackle when it does finally come in goes on getting closed down let’s loose a shot from 25 yards out the ball curling away from goal. A triple change for Watton, Garvey, Nash and Penny coming off, Kirsty Richardson, Chloe Hazelwood and Heather Dean on.

A throw for Watton on the left inside the Houghton half, into Edgar falls under challenge but spinning gets the ball into Smithers plays it on for Dowton moving centrally to the top of the area, Cook gets across her to take the ball off her toes out to the right Watton in it fire a high ball in towards the far post Wicks takes it down confidently. Wicks is hurt moments later sliding in to deny Smithers as the striker is played in from the right wing. Treatment needed by Wicks is up and okay to play on as Kelly Rees is sent out to get warmed up just in case.

Borsah does come back on replacing Thompson with less than 10 minutes of the game left. The substitute gets hold of the ball going forwards plays it on for Cook on the left sends a cross in high near post, Batchelor plucks it down out of the air. Borsah on the ball again passes to Craig running ahead of her moving right of goal shoots from outside the area her strike running wide of the far post. Mollie Rouse comes on for Watton Ladies replacing Jones.

Houghton’s Sinead Borsah holding off Watton’s Edgar

A good effort from Rachel Spendelow from outside the box right of the D 20 yards out as the ball is deflected into her path from a Borsah cross on the right leaning back into her shot the rising ball looks to be heading for the top corner veers sharply late on taking it wide of goal. Good work from Rachel Spendelow in the middle getting hold of the ball takes it out to the right Cook in space on the right Spendelow plays it on for her to go after getting hold of it fires the ball into Craig inside the area near post strikes it 1st time Dowton throwing herself at it making the block taking the ball behind for the corner kick.

GOAL! The corner kick is played in high, Rouse getting up for Watton can only head the ball on towards the far post, dropping into the keepers gloves Batchelor under pressure from Rachel Spendelow spills it, the Houghton midfielder reacting quickest stabs the ball past the keeper and into the goal beyond to extend Houghton’s lead in the 90th minute 0-3.

Rachel Spendelow scores Houghton’s 3rd goal late on

A bit of injury time to be played Houghton maintain their dominance, Watton can’t get hold of the ball Cook plays the ball into Craig outside the box, Making room for a strike, Hazelwood gets across to put in the challenge. The ball played up to Watton’s Smithers by Dean the striker shoots from outside the box Wicks saving at her near post. Dean is down and has to come off Carter going back on. Another powerful run wide right from Smithers drives her shot into the side netting.

Houghton get hold of the ball Rachel Spendelow on for Victoria Peck central has Cook cutting into the area from the right playing the ball into her feet lays it inside for Thompson 8 yards out turns and shoots placing her attempt wide of the far post. One final chance for Watton to pull a goal back a great ball from Edgar up into Smithers right inside the area fires a shot across the goal, Richardson racing in far post can’t quite reach it as it runs wide. The final whistle blows and Houghton Athletic Ladies celebrate winning their 1st final.

Full time Watton Ladies 0-3 Houghton Athletic Ladies

In the end a dominant display from Houghton Athletic Ladies, pressing from the start maintained that energy throughout moving the ball quickly, rotating their substitutes regularly on a hit afternoon. Frustrated Watton early on and they never found their rhythm throughout the game had little opportunity to attack 2nd half Houghton adding to the goal they scored in the 1st half going on to win 3-0.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

The SWF Blog – Player of the Match for today’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final goes to Houghton Athletic Ladies midfielder Rachel Spendelow a superb all round performance, working hard to win the ball in the middle disrupt and frustrate Watton get others into the attack getting forwards herself and capping it all off with a goal.

Houghton Athletic Ladies celebrate winning the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

Congratulations to Houghton Athletic Ladies upon winning today’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final.

Commiserations to Watton Ladies but they still had something to celebrate as they collected their awards for winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two League title. Congratulation’s to Watton on becoming league Champions.

Watton Ladies celebrating winning the Division Two title

A great day out at AFC Kempston Rovers FC, my thanks again to both clubs with the team details and to all the BHWGFL committee members today for their assistance.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 05/02/17

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 5th February

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

Stevenage Ladies are through to their 3rd successive Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup final after overcoming Watford Ladies (Youth) U17s Hornets beating a determined and spirited group of 16 & 17 year old’s 2-1 with Donna McGuigan scoring both the goals for the FAWPL South East Division One side. Could be an all Stevenage Final too with their Reserves side away to Royston Town Ladies in the other semi-final being played this coming Sunday.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A huge result in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One at the weekend in the only match taking place in the league Letchworth Garden City Eagles bottom of the table without a point on the board were hosting league leaders Sandy Ladies and beat them 3-0 to finally get 3 points on the board. A minutes silence and applause held before the match in memory of Letchworth Garden City Eagles Life President, Vince Paige who passed away recently.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

This weekend also saw the quarter finals of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup being played and both last season’s runners-up and the cup holders were knocked out of the competition on Sunday. League Cup holders, Garston Ladies were away in the quarter finals playing fellow Division One side, Bishops Stortford Ladies. Garston took a 2-0 lead into the changing rooms at half-time, going on to make it 3-0 in the 2nd half before Bishops Stortford staged an epic comeback with a little over 6 minutes left to play, Hannah Mead puling a goal back for the home side, Brooke White scored to make it 3-2 with 3 minute left on the clock then Kathryn Stanley (pictured) put the ball into the back of the net to level the tie at 3-3 to send the match into extra-time. Stanley scoring again in the 2nd period of extra-time netting the winning goal to send Bishops Stortford through to the semi-finals.

Also knocked out of the League Cup are last season’s beaten finalists, Sherrardswood Ladies were at home in the quarter finals against fellow Division One side, Hitchin Town Ladies. Francesca Novelli in the 1st half and Laura Cousins in the 2nd half scoring for Sherrardswood, Hitchin Town scoring twice in the 90 minutes the ties all square at 2-2 went into extra-time both sides scoring again Katy Owens for Sherrardswood. Shaan Hayre, Bethany Page and Kayleigh Saunders the 3 goals scorers for Hitchin Town. The quarter final headed to penalties, Hitchin Town the side emerging with the shootout win taking it 3-1 to reach the League Cup semi-finals.

Also through to the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup semi-finals are Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies after they edged a 7 goal thriller away to Division Two side, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets. Carlie Aldridge and Charlotte Demmon scoring 1st half goals for Woburn, Dominique Hull with a 3rd goal in the last 5 minutes. Houghton Athletic winning it 4-3 with Ciara Craig scoring a brace. Emily Peat and Holly Thomson with the other goals to see them into the semi-finals.

Watton Ladies from Division Two make up the semi-final line-up in the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup after they beat fellow Division Two side, Evergreen Ladies 3-1 away from home on Sunday. 2 goals fro Samantha Edgar along with a strike on target from Francesca Smithers seeing them win the tie. Natalie Maher with Evergreen Ladies goal.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Three matches in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend. Leaders, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues were at home playing Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. A 2-0 win seeing them extend their 100% winning record to 9 matches at the top of the table.

It was a match 2nd & 3rd at Evergreen FC as Evergreen Eagles hosted 3rd placed Potters Bar United Ladies both side level on 12 points going into the game. Potters Bar United had beaten Evergreen Eagles 1-0 in the reverse fixture at the start of the year, this time around Evergreen Eagles won the 3 points to move 3 points clear in 2nd with a 2-0 victory, Samantha Feeney and Samantha Takis with the goals.

Plenty of goals scored in the other game in Division Three with Wheathamsted Ladies recording a double figure scoreline to beat bottom side Hatfield Town Ladies at home on Sunday. Sophia Pigdeon scoring a double hat-trick netting 6 goals in the match. Marie Dennehy scoring a hat-trick too. Jackie Sheridan grabbing herself a brace with Sandra Knias also wading in with a goal in a 12-0 win.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 11/12/16

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 11th December

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

The Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup has reached the quarter finals stage the last 8 vying for a place in the semi-finals, 3 of the 4 places decided this weekend, whilst holders Watford Ladies Development U19s will play Stevenage Ladies Reserves this coming Sunday after their match was postponed.

Stevenage Ladies 1st team are through to the semi-finals of the County Cup as they won away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three side, Evergreen Eagles. 6 leagues between the sides a tough test for Evergreen Eagles taking on FAWPL South East Division One opposition. 2 goals for Stevenage captain, Donna McGuigan with a goal a piece for Kristina O’Connell, Rosy Woodhams, Daniela Martucci and Bolu Fisher seeing Stevenage win the game 6-0 to make it into the last 4.

Watford Ladies have a side already through to the semi-finals of the County Cup after their U17s Hornets side beat Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side, Bishops Stortford Ladies 6-1 at home to reach the last 4 of the competition on Sunday.

It was the biggest win in the clubs history as Royston Town Ladies 1st team booked their place in the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup semi-finals. The ERWFL Premier Division side were at home playing Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two side Watton Ladies. 4 league between the sides, Royston Town proved too strong an opponent on the day. Samantha Tinsley moving onto 24 goals from 12 appearances netting 5 goals in the match. Both Rebekah Fisk and Paige Rolfe scored a brace each their 1st goals of the season. Amie Jones, Hayley Graham and Annie Chambers all scored their 1st goals of the season too with Gemma Croucher and Stephanie Hicks also on target with a goal each in a 14-0 win.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

One more place in the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup quarter finals to be decided as Sherrardswood Ladies from Beds & Herts Women’s Division One took on Division Two side Royston Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday in the 2nd Round. Beaten on penalties in last years final (sorry to mention that) Sherrardswood made it into the quarter finals with a 4-0 win Katy Jones opening the scoring on 28 minutes, Laura Cousins made it 2-0 before half-time netting a 2nd goal early in the 2nd half, Melissa Wright scoring the 4th goal 5 minutes from time.

That completes the quarter final line up of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup, the ties to be played Sunday 5th February are listed below :-

Sherrardswood Ladies v Hitchin Town Ladies

Evergreen Ladies v Watton Ladies

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Garston Ladies

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets v Houghton Athletic Ladies

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A handful of league games this Sunday, in the end just the one in each division being played. A big win away from home for Hitchin Town Ladies as they open up a 6 point gap to bottom side Letchworth Garden City Eagles whom they met on Sunday to pick up their 2nd league win of the season. Getting the 3 points courtesy of a 3-2 win with Rachael Lewis, Jodie Nicholson and Natalie Thompson scoring the goals.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

A top of the table clash in Beds & Herts Division Two with 3rd placed Panshanger Ladies at home looking to end a run of 2 successive home defeats against the league leaders, Flitwick Ladies. It was Flitwick who took the lead in the match against the run of play, Taylor Adams putting them ahead. Panshanger were soon back on level terms Ellie Burke making it 1-1 on 35 minutes. Panshanger went to to take the lead Chemise Huitson with her 15th goal of the season making it 2-1 with 2 minutes left in the 1st half. A lead Panshanger held onto throughout the 2nd half to win the 3 points to climb back into 2nd spot go a point behind Flitwick at the top.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three 3rd placed Crawley Green Ladies were away from home on Sunday playing 4th placed Potters Bar United Ladies, the 2 sides switching places as Potters Bar United ran out 4-1 winners to win for the 3rd time this season. Nina Service scoring late in the 1st half for Crawley Green.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 04/12/16

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 4th December

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

7 ties played this weekend in the 2nd Round of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup. Holders, Garston Ladies were away playing fellow Division One side Letchworth Garden City Ladies. A brace from Vikki Duffy (pictured) with a goal a piece for Linda Watt and Lucy Zecchin seeing Garston through to the quarter finals with a 4-1 victory. Alyce Williams with the goal for Letchworth.

Bishops Stortford Ladies currently 3rd in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One also advance into the quarter finals of the League Cup with a 5-1 home win against Beds & Herts Division Three side Evergreen Eagles. Hannah Mead netting a 1st half hat-trick with Brogan McHale also scoring in the 1st half. Kathryn Stanley scoring the 5th goal 5 minutes into the 2nd half . Samantha Takis with her 10th goal of the season scoring the goal for Evergreen Eagles.

Houghton Athletic Ladies also advance through to the quarter finals winning an all Beds & Herts Division One clash at home against Sharnbrook WFC. Emily Peat scoring twice for Houghton with a goal each for Emma Hawkes, Rachel Spendelow and Holly Thomson in a 5-0 win.

Hitchin Town Ladies from Beds & Herts Women’s Division One needed extra-time to make it into the quarter finals of the League Cup playing at home against Division Three side Wheathamsted Ladies. Louise Gash was red carded for Hitchin Town as Wheathamsted held them to a goalless draw after the 90 minutes were up the match going into an extra 30 minutes, Emma Chaffey was the difference her goal seeing Hitchin Town win the match 1-0 and progress in the competition.

Plenty of goals scored elsewhere in the 3 remaining ties, 2 featuring all Beds & Herts Division Two clashes. Hitchin Belles were at home on Sunday taking on Watton Ladies, had just 9 players available but despite the disadvantage numbers wise were level at 2-2 at half-time, Watton with a strong 2nd half went on to win the tie 7-4. Francesca Smithers finding the back of the net with 4 goals for Watton with Emma Carter, Gemma Penny and Chloe Jones all getting a goal each in the win. Shannon Page with a hat-trick plus an own goal for Hitchin Belles.

A couple of goals less in the next game but a dramatic finish in extra-time in the other all Beds & Herts Division Two tie in the 2nd Round of the League Cup with Garston Ladies FC 96 at home to bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets. The game ending 3-3 after 90 minutes. A Charlotte Demmon double plus a goal for Lauren Revell for Woburn & Wavendon. Holly Jury, Dion Lewis and a brace from Jade Roberts with the goals for Garston Ladies FC 96, one more coming in injury time, Revell scoring her 2nd of the match in extra-time for Woburn & Wavendon. The tie squared at 4-4 penalties looming Chloe Ayres popped up with a stoppage time winner to see the Clarets through with a 5-4 win.

Penalties were needed in the final League Cup 2nd Round tie with Evergreen Ladies from Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two travelling on Sunday to play Division Three side, Potters Bar United Ladies. The home side leading 2-1 at half-time Evergreen came back to see the scores level at 3-3 after 90 minutes, a brace from Janiece Allen plus a goal from Claire Evans for Potters Bar United. Natalie Mahir with a brace for Evergreen with Chloe Jones grabbing a goal to force the tie into extra-time no more goals it went to penalties, Evergreen Ladies winning the shootout 3-1.

One more 2nd Round tie to be played this coming weekend in the League Cup and I will bring you all the details of the quarter final line-up in The Round-Up next week.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

With several clubs across the 3 division’s in Beds & Herts involved in the League Cup 2nd Round it was a limited league fixture programme on Sunday. Just the one match taking place in all 3 division’s. A significant win for Sandy Ladies in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One as they beat St Albans Ladies away from home 2-1 to climb back to the top of the table, going 3 points clear of Sherrardswood Ladies with their 6th league win of the season. Katie Seldon and Chloe Reeves on target scoring the goals for Sandy to take the 3 points. Katie Grehan scoring early in the 2nd half for St Albans Ladies.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division One the league action was from the Moneyhole Playing Fields with 3rd placed Panshanger Ladies hosting Royston Town Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into a 2-0 lead in the 1st half, Grace Leslie scoring both the goals. Panshanger created chances had a goal ruled off for offside in the 1st half. Leslie went on to complete her hat-trick in the 2nd half. Panshanger 3-0 down were awarded a penalty with 10 minutes left on the clock, Sophie Mandel putting the ball beyond the keeper into the back of the net from the spot. Chemise Huitson who was brought down for the penalty scored for Panshanger in the closing minutes to make it 3-2, Royston Town holding out for all 3 points getting their 3rd league win of the season.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Thought there was something familiar about this result in Beds & Herts Division Three on Sunday with league leaders Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues away to Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. Opening up a 6 point lead at the top making it 6 wins from 6 in the league winning the game 4-1 the goals scored by Amy Gibbins, Rachel Moffat and 2 from Georgia Payne all 3 scored last weekend too in their 6-0 win away to Potters Bar United Ladies. Excellent form at the start of the season. Louise Grocott getting on the scoresheet for Shefford Town & Campton Ladies.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 23/10/16

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 23rd October

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The start of the season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One has seen Sandy Ladies and Sharnbrook WFC Jostling for the lead at the top of the table. The lead changed again this Sunday after the weekends results. Sandy Ladies moving back to the top of the table as they win their 4th successive league game to start the season were away to newly promoted, Hitchin Town Ladies at the weekend. One goal was enough to see them come away with all 3 points. Katie Seldon scoring the winning goal for Sandy Ladies. 3 defeats to start the season for Hitchin Town Ladies but all close results haven’t been thrashed and this is the 1st league game they failed to score in.

Sandy Ladies climb above Sharnbrook WFC after the side leading the table at the start of the day were beaten away from home by Bishops Stortford Ladies who were only playing their 2nd league match of the season having been involved in cup competitions early on in the season. Brooke White opened the scoring for Bishops Stortford inside the opening 5 minutes. Sharnbrook responding straight away Charlotte Mullins netting for the Bedfordshire side. White went on to score again for Bishops Stortford on the 19th and 27th minute to complete a 1st half hat-trick. Hannah Mead adding a 4th goal 11 minutes into the 2nd half to see Bishops Stortford win 4-1 to climb into 3rd spot.

Also climbing up the Division One table after the weekends results are Sherrardswood Ladies, up to 4th spot winning away to bottom side Letchworth Garden City Eagles. A Laure Marris hat-trick plus an own goal seeing the visitors win the match 4-1. Emily Jamieson with the goal for Letchworth.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

2 ties were still to be played this Sunday in the 1st Round of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup. Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies were at home playing Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. Eased into the 2nd Round courtesy of a hat-trick scored by Emma Hawkes.

Royston Town Ladies Reserves from Division Two were away to Division Three side Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. also won the game 3-0 to advance to the 2nd Round Harriet Smith opening the scoring in the 1st half on 21 minutes, Grace Leslie doubling the advantage 4 minutes before the break. Lucy Williamson making it 3-0 2 minutes from time.

The draw for the 2nd Round of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup is as follows.

Sherrardswood Ladies v Royston Town Ladies Reserves

Hitchin Town Ladies v Wheathamsted Ladies

Potters Bar United Ladies v Evergreen Ladies

Hitchin Belles v Watton Ladies

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Evergreen Eagles

Letchworth Garden City Eagles v Garston Ladies

Garston Ladies FC 96 v Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets

Houghton Athletic Ladies v Sharnbrook WFC

ties scheduled to be played Sun 4th & 11th December

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

One game being played in Beds & Herts Divison Two this weekend with Evergreen Ladies travelling to the Moneyhole Playing Fields to take on Panshanger Ladies, both promoted from Division Three last season. It was Panshanger who took an early lead April SPang sending the ball into the back of the net on 7 minutes. Chemise Huitson added a 2nd goal for the home side 21 minutes in, Natalie Maher pegging it back to 2-1 at the break. Kathryn Light came on early 2nd half for Panshanger put them 3-1 ahead on 50 minutes. Huitson with her 2nd of the game scoring in the 53rd minute, Light scored her 2nd goal of the game too a minute later t make it 5-1 on 60 minutes Panshanger went further ahead Ellie Burke scoring. Evergreen pulled a goal back making it 6-2 before Burke went on to grab her 2nd goal of the game to see Panshanger up to 3rd in the Division Two table.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Evergreen Eagles move a point clear at the top of the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three table after a 1-1 draw at home to Bedwell Rangers on Sunday, Samantha Takis with the goal for Evergreen, Sarah King on target in the 2nd half for Bedwell Rangers who start the season with a win and a draw to climb to 3rd in the table.

Up to 4th in the Division Three table are new side Potters Bar United Ladies playing competitively for the 1st time this season having forfeited their 1st league match were at home playing Hatfield Town Ladies on Sunday after contesting a goalless 1st half, Hatfield Town took the lead on 54 minutes, Milan Johnson with the goal. Potters Bar came back into the game Janiece Allen pulling it back to 1-1 with 15 minutes left on the clock. Allen scored again with 3 minutes left in the game to win it for Potters Bar.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 09/10/16

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 9th October

The Sunday in Beds & Herts the focus was on the 1st Round of the Women’s Openage League Cup with 8 ties scheduled to be played.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup 1st Round

No sooner had I put the fixtures out for the weekend then Letchworth Garden City Eagles informed that their opponents on Sunday, Hatfield Town Ladies had withdrawn from the League Cup.

Did have some football elsewhere however, starting with the League Cup holders, Garston Ladies, started the defence of their trophy with a tricky home tie against the early Division One pace setters, Sandy Ladies. Having won it for the past 2 seasons Garston were in no mood to give it up however and advanced to the next round with a 2-0 victory.

Sherrardswood Ladies were the side Garston Ladies had beaten to win the League Cup in both those finals and hoping to reach their 3rd successive final and maybe go one better this year Sherrardswood were at home taking on fellow Division One side, St Albans Ladies. Laura Cousins followed up a 1st half goal with a 2nd half 10 minute hat-trick with Laure Marris converting from the penalty spot on 80 minutes to see Sherrardswood into the 2nd round with a 5-2 win.

Division Two side Panshanger Ladies were coming into this weekends League Cup 1st Round tie at home to Hitchin Town Ladies off the back of their 1st league win. Started well against their Division One opponents on home turf, Chemise Huitson with the opening goal of the match inside 2 minutes. Hitchin Town having barely played this season to date, just the one competitive league fixture came back strongly to move into a 3-1 lead in the 1st half, Huitson scoring her 2nd goal of the game to see the deficit reduced to 3-2 at half-time. Hitchin Town found the back of the net again in the 2nd half to win the tie 4-2 to advance to the 2nd Round of the League Cup their goals coming from, Dani Friel, Kelly Hannington, Sarah Payne & Kayleigh Saunders.

Garston Ladies FC 96 leading Division Two early on were away to Division Three side Crawley Green Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup. This game went all the way to penalties. The scores locked at 3-3 after 90 minutes and extra-time. Nina Service was no target twice for Crawley Green with Jessica McNamara scoring the other goal. Garston’s goalscorers were Leah Crockett, Holly Jury and Hannah Roberts. The tie going to a penalty shootout Garston the side advancing to the 2nd Round winning 4-3 from the spot-kicks.

Evergreen Ladies also from Division Two progress to the 2nd Round of the League Cup over coming Bedwell Rangers from Division Three at home with 2 goals from Natalie Maher plus 1 from Emily Jones to edge the result 3-2.

An all Division Two clash in the 1st Round of the League Cup between Flitwick Ladies and Watton Ladies. A hat-trick from Francesca Smithers seeing the away side Watton Ladies move onto the 2nd Round winning the tie 3-1.

Hertford Town Ladies Reserves were scheduled to play Division One side Bishops Stortford Ladies at home on Sunday as of yet I’m unsure how this game went.

Cup Final – Garston Ladies v Sherrardswood Ladies

The 1st of 3 successive Cup Finals on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday 8th May an evening kick-off for the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final a repeat of last season final with Garston Ladies (the current holders) taking on Sherrardswood Ladies.

Cup Final Report – Garston Ladies v Sherrardswood Ladies FC

On to my 2nd match of the day an evening kick-off for the Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Women’s League Cup Final, a repeat of last years final too, Garston Ladies v Sherrardswood Ladies.

My 1st look at a women’s League Cup Final in the Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Women’s Football League (BHWFL). 28 teams competing across 3 divisions entered this years League Cup.

Road to the Final

Garston Ladies were awarded an away win in the 1st Round against Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three side Bedmond Ladies. An interesting pair up in the 2nd Round as they were at home once again playing their Reserve side playing in Division Two, Garston Ladies FC 96, the 1st team ran out 7-0 winners on the day to set up a quarter final tie away to fellow Division One side Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Edged the tie beating them 3-2 to reach the semi-finals of the competition and another away tie against the side that would eventually go on to win the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One title, Hertford Town Ladies. Garston Ladies won the game 4-2 to reach their second successive League Cup Final. Garston Ladies were in contention for the league themselves for much of the season but a fixture pile up at the end and unable to play the games eventually finished 6th. Garston Ladies run a large number of youth sides over 340 registered players across all age groups.

Sherrardswood Ladies were on the road in the early rounds of the League Cup facing tough opponents starting in the 1st Round with fellow Division One side Bishops Stortford Ladies, a narrow 2-1 win saw them into the 2nd Round away again to the then league leaders Harvesters FC the match went all the way ending 2-2 after extra time onto the penalty shootout Sherrardswood Ladies winning through to the quarter finals the shootout ending in their favour 5-3. At home in the quarter finals, new side Hitchin Belles riding high in Division Three. Sherrardswood Ladies won the game 3-0 to set up a home semi-final against Division Two side Watton Ladies. For the 2nd time in the competition Sherrardswood Ladies faced a penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw. Beat Watton Ladies 4-3 on penalties to reach the final for the second successive season and face Garston Ladies once again. Differed to Garston Ladies in terms of the league getting all their matches played before everyone else ended top of the table but could only watch as others caught up and overtook them eventually finishing in 3rd spot.

Last years Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final was a close affair with Garston Ladies beating Sherrardswood 1-0, Vikki Duffy with the goal.

The venue for today’s game AFC Kempston Rovers FC, hosting a day of girls & women’s finals across the Beds & Herts Leagues 6 finals in all starting with the U12s at 9:00am then U13s, U14s, U15s & U18s. I arrived an hour before the Women’s Open Age Final was due to kick off searched out the two sides warming up. A decent sized car park beside the ground with a large modern clubhouse and changing room block down one side with a seated stand and some terracing overlooking a large sized pitch that looked in good shape considering how much action it has seen of late. Lovely weather one of the hottest days of the year to date, bright abd sunny perhaps a little too hot for a finals day but with a scheduled 6:15pm KO it was starting to cool as the 2 sides walked out onto the pitch.

Garston Ladies starting XI – Jade Cook, Samantha Roads, Janine Rodgers, Stephanie Roads, Lauren Pinder, Gemma Curtis, Jane Hales, Emma Trill, Lucy Zecchin, Vikki Duffy & Jo Sharp.
subs – Linda Watt

Sherrardswood Ladies starting XI – Jennifer Mansfield, Ellen Jackson, Katie Rist, Abby Cardall, Kristie Donovan, Jade Ryan, Melissa Wright, Katy Jones (C), Frankie Novelli, Laura Cousins & Laurie Marris
subs – Jules Briars, Rhia Rose, Emily Gaskin, Natasha Little & Manjinder Atwal

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Sherrardswood to get the Cup Final underway 1st half wearing an all blue kit with white across the top of the shirt sleeves with Garston lined up opposite wearing purple shirts, black shorts and socks. Sherrardswood go down the left channel early on with Laura Cousins playing the ball on down the line with captain Katy Jones making the run getting the corner kick as she attempts to turn the ball into the area.

The corner comes to nothing, Garston get the ball up the other end winning a throw deep in Sherrardswood territory a long throw Vikki Duffy sending the ball into the area, Jo Sharp coming near post tries to head it on can only put the ball into the gloves of advancing Sherrardswood goalkeeper, Jennifer Mansfield. A cagey opening few minutes with both sides testing the other down the flank, another throw deep on the right for Garston as Lucy Zecchin tries to carry the ball down the right side again Sharp is picked out right corner of the area turns and shoots the ball blocked at point blank range.

Garston are starting to press Zecchin on the right getting in behind puts two crosses into the Sherrardswood area both times it’s defender Kristie Donovan who gets her head on the ball to clear. Garston keep the pressure on possession in and around the Sherrardswood area lift the ball into the area from the left side trying to pick out Sharp in the centre the ball is cleared comes through to Garston captain Gemma Curtis 25 yards out meeting the ball on the run hits it goal wards arrowing in flies over Mansfield smashing against the crossbar, down still in play…

GOAL! … the ball isn’t cleared very far is out on the left a free kick is given away, taken quickly the ball is rolled inside along the face of the area, coming onto it is Duffy closing in on the D takes on the shot hitting it low and hard across the area and into the goal 1-0 giving Garston the early lead inside 12 minutes.

Vikki Duffy scores the opening goal for Garston Ladies

Sherrardswood regroup get some joy down the left themselves striker Laurie Marris getting her side a corner kick. The ball is whipped in towards the near post area attacked Garston only succeed in knocking it into Cousins 5 yards out smashes the ball back in sending it over the top of the crossbar. Up the other end Sharp is put through by Duffy, a race to the byline with Sherrardswood’s, Abby Cardall the central defender staying with her does enough to pressure Sharp into putting her cross behind the goal.

Marris is working hard across the front to make herself available for the ball coming to her right side of the area holds up well before turning and getting a ball into the six yards box near post area Cousins is in between 3 defenders the ball pinging around betwen them won;t fall favourably for the attacker as Garston get it clear of the area. Shouts for a penalty by Sherrardswood have a corner on the right the ball put in is headedc back out to taker Jade Ryan looks to carry the ball into the box, appears to be tripped but the protests are waved away.

Sherrardswood do get a penalty kick moments later as Marris breaking forwards right side closing on the area is with Garston defender Sam Roads on her shoulder, goalkeeper Jade Cook comes to close her down the pair colliding just inside the box the referee points to the spot. Up steps Cardall to take hits the penalty low through the middle, Cook gets down sharply with no adjustment needed to get behind the ball knocking it away to her right, Cardall is after the rebound trying to get her foot over the ball doesn’t lifting it over the bar.

Sherrardswood Ladies, Laurie Marris pointing to where she wants the ball delivered.

Donovan is busy at the back for Sherrardswood, namely because she is reading the ball well getting in the right place to head away the attempted crosses lifted into the area, Trill does manage to get the ball into the area for Sharp, she tries to turn inside from the left runs straight into Donovan who tackles and clears. Sharp is almost through on goal chasing through the centre as Curtis puts the ball up to the edge of the box for her has a half yard on the Sherrardswood defence entering the box stretching for the ball prods the shot goalwards comes straight at Mansfield well placed to get down and hold onto the ball.

Jane Hales gets up to head the ball for Garston Ladies

Has been a hot day and although it is now cooling the referee calls for a drinks break a chance for both sides to rest take on fluids. When play resumes Sherrardswood make a double change Frankie Novelli and Rhia Rose on the pitch to attack left and right. Right from the restart Rose looks a danger the ball played on for her by Jones rolling into the area right corner Rose lunges for it sends the ball wide across the six yard box.

A free kick for Sherrardswood out on the left side 25 yards out Rose is over the ball, takes on the shot and it causes a good deal of confusion amongst the watching spectators on that side including myself as the high ball in looks to dip late and sail into the back of the net, however the ball actually dropped onto the roof of the net narrowly over. Sherrardswood are finishing the half strongly as they look to get a goal back. Have another free kick on halfway Ryan to launch it in towards the edge of the area, the ball is knocked on into the area, Sam Roads coming across on the cover for Garston gets to the ball 1st sending it away for a throw on the left. Novelli comes off for Sherrardswood with Manjinder Atwal coming on.

Ryan plays the ball down the left for Atwal who getting in behind looks to chase it down at the byline, Zecchin covers alot of ground tracking back to challenge Atwal then shield the ball out for a goal kick. Rose plays the ball on into the left channel with Marris making the run late the the half Stephanie Roads closes her down on the byline prevents the cross getting through.

Half-time Garston Ladies 1-0 Sherrardswood Ladies

An interesting 1st half both sides fairly evenly matched Garston with the better start getting themselves in front have had good possession in the wide areas have gotten the ball into the box but rarely picking out a team mate. Defending well for the large part Sherrardswood have gotten stronger as the half has gone on especially after the break for drinks and the introduction of Rose to the action. Leading 1-0 all to play for 2nd half. Almost 7:30pm when Garston get the 2nd half underway.

Attacking down the right side early on the ball into Zecchin the shot is taken early put over the bar from distance. Sherrardswood get the ball into Atwal 25 yards out looks to drive with the ball towards the area is bundled over the referee thinks there’s an advantage the ball coming to Rose, looks to take players on Garston close the ball down edge of the box.Game is stretched early on 2nd half both sides going long for a spell both wanting the next goal but rushing the final ball defences on top.

Garston Ladies captain Gemma Curtis on the ball

Garston are starting to get more of the ball pressing Sherrardswood defence on the ball are turning play around attacking their box. A penalty shout for Garston this time goes begging as they put the ball through into the feet of Jane Hales looks to be nudged off the ball but again play is waived away. With more players available on the bench than Garston, Sherrardswood are ringing the changes Emily Gaskin, Natasha Little and Jules Briars are all on. Linda Watt is on for Curtis for Garston. Free kick wide right in a deep position, Rose to deliver aims for the far post area the ball bouncing in front of goal, runs through and out for a goal kick no one attacking it.

Hales on the drive through the middle for Garston hits the shot outside the box blocked at close range the ball is deflected behind for the corner, put in from the right side Sherrardswood head behind for a 2nd corner. Coming in again Sharp comes to meet it before the near post, connecting on the volley turns it back in across goal but to high over the crossbar. Play is stopped for another drinks break.

Garston attack straight from the resumption of play a powerful run on the ball by Trill on their left flank closing in on the byline cutting the cross back across the Sherrardswood area Duffy is on the penalty spot, can’t quite get anything on the ball to turn it back towards goal. Sherrardswood have ridden out a spell of pressure from Garston now bring the ball on put into Marris wide on the right in the corner beside the area holds the ball up well before bringing in on two yards and squaring it into the area, Rose lets the ball run across her before going for the shot, slips as she does so the ball runs tamely through to Cook in the Garston goal. Novelli returns to the action for Sherrardswood with a little over a quarter hour to find an equaliser force the Final into extra-time.

Laurie Marris holds up the ball for Sherrardswood

Sherrardswood have a corner kick on the right, the ball whipped into the six yard box by Rose is headed clear by Watts, the counter attack is on the ball played on with Zecchin stealing through clear inside the Sherrardswood half, Mansfield comes rushing out of her area has to get to the ball 1st, Zecchin has Duffy free on her left, the keeper just gets there 1st to kick the ball high and away from danger. Needing the goal Sherrardswood have intensified the temp have Garston pushed back all their attackers are on the pitch with Cousins back on as the game goes into the final 10 minutes.

Hales back in defence does well challenging Marris then Atwal as both try to get a shot away. A chance for Sherrardswood to deliver the ball into the box a free kick on the right. Is send in by Rose to the far post area, Hales rises highest to head the ball away for Garston. The ball coming into the area up the left side finds Rose inside the area, looks to take the ball past Stephanie Roads the defender puts the challenge in blocking the shot and brings the ball out of the area.

All Sherrardswood as the minutes tick down, Garston defending for their lives, a corner is conceded on the right the ball sent long to the edge of the area left of the D, Jones comes onto it meeting it with her head drills the ball wide. A rare break late on for Garston get the ball down the other end of the pitch, Watts playing it out into space for Janine Rodgers on the right puts it down the line for Zecchin who looks to hit the shot on the turn from outside the box runs straight into Mansfield across at her near post.

Lucy Zecchin after the ball for Garston Ladies

Garston a pinned back inside their box Sherrardswood have a throw deep on the right Novelli lifting the ball up to Marris she wins a corner kick. Another good delivery from Rose going long aiming for Cardall at the far post is put out for a corner kick on the opposite flank Rose runs across to take, Is put in long from the left this time, Hales gets her head on the ball sending the ball high into the air, Cardall attacks it trying to knock it down into the six yard box Garston rush it away…

GOAL! … the game is already in injury time as the cleared ball is retained by Sherrardswood played out to Rose still out on the left coming to the edge of the area left corner hits the shot hard sending it flying through the area burying it into the back of the net to cues wild celebrations as Sherrardswood get the equalising goal at the death and force extra-time. 1-1.

Extra Time

The floodlights come on as the extra half hour begins Sherrardswood to get us underway. Cardall defends well against Rodgers as Garston look to go long. Up the other end the ball is played over the top right of the area for Rose to attack running onto the ball hits it on the half volley the shot bouncing wide across goal.

Penalty! Sherrardswood win another penalty in extra-time attacking down the right Rose on the ball has Atwal making a run inside the area free on the left side, tries to pick her out, the ball doesn’t reach her, cries for hand ball and t’s given the foul committed Sherrardswood have a chance to take the lead from the spot. Cardall to step up again isn’t a great penalty hit through the middle again Cook doesn’t need to move gets down to claim it.

Hales is off for Garston with Curtis back on. Sharp is played through on the right by Zecchin taking the ball to the edge of the area pulls the trigger gets too much behind the ball the effort flies over the bar. The 1st period of extra-time ends with the score still 1-1

Garston get the 2nd period of extra-time underway will either side find a winning goal. Novelli with an early opportunity to have a strike on goal hits the ball on the half volley inside the Garston box fires her shot over.

GOAL! Thought Rose had scored from a free-kick in the 1st half. This time she does! A free kick is won pretty much in the middle of the Garston half. Rose over the ball takes on the shot hits the ball perfectly, plenty of power and pace behind it arrowing in on target dipping late as it flies over Cook and into the back of the net 1-2. Advantage Sherrardswood.

Rhia Rose after the ball with both goals for Sherrardswood Ladies

Garston’s Trill plays the ball on for Sharp stealing through into the Sherrardswood box right of goal shoots a low effort coming at pace towards Trill quick reactions saving with her foot at her near post. Free kick on halfway for Garston Roads to put in the ball is headed clear by Cardall. Hales returns to the pitch for Garston with Watts coming off as they push forwards to find a goal. Marris is off for Sherrardswood for Melissa Wright as they look to defend their advantage.

GOAL! Barely a minute left to play Garston pile forwards get themselves a corner everyone bar the goalkeeper rushes to get into the area the delivery whipped in at a good height is attacked by purple shirts, Sam Roads rising highest of them all near side to header the ball into the back of the net 2-2. Roads is buried under her team mates as their is barely anything time left to restart and the Final goes to penalties.

Penalties

For the 3rd time this season Sherrardswood see a League Cup game go to a penalty shootout. A lottery, keepers can do no wrong who will keep their composure longest.

Garston to take the 1st penalty kick, up steps Trill, lifts the ball high through the middle hits the crossbar, Mansfield stretching may have got a touch. MISS.

Sherrardswood’s 1st penalty taker is Rose no mistake as she smashes it low to the keepers right into the goals side netting. GOAL.

Sharp is up next for Garston to take their 2nd penalty again the ball is lifted high up onto the crossbar and goes away from target. MISS.

Cardall is up next for Sherrardswood having seen 2 penalties saved in normal and extra-time lifts this one high to the keepers right and into the back of the net GOAL.

2-0 down the pressure is on Duffy to score for Garston as she takes their 3rd spot kick, no messing hit hard and low through the middle the keeper diving away to her right. GOAL.

Jones up next for Sherrardswood taking their 3rd spot kick gets it all wrong ballooning the ball wide of goal. MISS.

Penalty taker no 4 for Garston is Zecchin composed hits it low with power into the bottom right corner of the goal to level it all up at 2-2. GOAL!

4th penalty taker for Sherrardswood is Ryan goes to put the ball through the middle getting height on the ball Cook jumps and makes the save. MISS.

Curtis comes forwards to take Garston’s 5th penalty plays the ball to the keepers right, Mansfield gets down sharply but the ball squirms under her and in giving Garston a 3-2 lead in the shootout. GOAL.

Wright up last for Sherrardswood, heartbreak as she sends her spot kick wide. MISS.

Garston Ladies race forwards towards Cook in celebration as they come back from 2-0 down in the penalty shootout to win it 3-2 and retain the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup. A Final that had it all late drama in the 90 minutes, even more in extra-time and a penalty shootout always a heartbreaking way to lose a Final, ecstasy if you win. Garston took the early lead but Sherrardswood came back strongly had them on the ropes, missed two penalties along the way an entertaining final.

Garston Ladies celebrate winning the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

Congratulations to Garston Ladies on winning the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup today. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details and the BHWGFL staff for their help at the ground. Enjoyed my 1st trip to AFC Kempston Rovers.