Harlow Town Ladies extend their winning run to 10 games in the league to move 9 points clear of the chasing pack in the ERWFL Premier Division. At home on Sunday taking on bottom side Haringey Borough Women. An emotional win too achieving a double figure scoreline getting off to a good start the goals flowing. 22 goals for the season now for top scorer Becky Shephard a poignant a special hat-trick scored on Sunday, thought are with her at this time. Plenty of goals to amongst the squad this season too with both Abbey Dell and Beth Chambers scoring a brace each with goals too for Frances Gamble, Georgia Box and captain Kaydee King. The final score 10-2.
Royston Town Women starting the day in 2nd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division travelled to play Bedford Ladies at the weekend. Royston with a string of early chances, a keenly fought match goalless at the break was to end in frustration for the visitors, Bedford capitalising to score the only goal of the game to win it 1-0, Maya Sidhu with the goal getting Bedford back to winning ways.
That defeat coupled with a 6th straight league win for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies sees then move up into 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table 9 games unbeaten now in all competition following an opening day defeat. Making the trip to Norfolk this weekend to play Wymondham Town Ladies. The hosts starting the brighter taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Rebecca Russell playing in top scorer Hannah Waters to make it 1-0. PNS coming back to level the scores in the 15th minute. A competitive contest Wymondham retaking the lead 5 minutes later with Chelsea Clarke sending a shot across the keeper. Back came PNS to equalise, the visitors going on to score two goals late in the first half to lead at the break 4-2. A 2 goal cushion PNS went on to add a 5th goal before the hour finishing up winning the match 6-2. Jessica Driscoll dual signed with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies scoring a hat-trick on her first appearance for PNS. Goals too for Emma Pollard, and top scorer Leah Cudone with Chanade Henderson scoring her first goal of the season.
The ERWFL Premier Division where the action on Women’s Football East came this weekend a trip down to Essex to watch the match between Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and Luton Town Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea’s recent form improving back to back wins coming into the game have added Terry Harrison to the management team. Luton relegated from the FAWNL making a good start to the season themselves blooding alot of youngsters plenty of talent within the club, 16-year-old Ellie Sergeant handed her first start. The wind at their backs a solid defensive display from Luton, Bowers & Pitsea enjoying more of the possession moving the ball well without creating much in front of goal. Luton happy to sit back taking the lead midway through the first half, as route one a goal as you’ll see goalkeeper Kezia Hassell kicking the ball forwards travelling with the wind behind it missed by the Bowers & Pitsea centre backs attacker Rebecca Kane running onto it in the clear to place wide of the keeper. Erica Byron firing in a superb strike from outside the box to double the lead.
Luton’s Funmi Babalola challenging for the ball
Luton 2-0 up at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea continued to move the ball well Luton standing firm as the hosts looking to pull a goal back Kane put in over the top late on no flag going on to slot home her 2nd of the match to see the game won 3-0. Luton climb into 4th spot in the Premier Division table. The full match report available further down the page.
ERWFL League Cup
One outstanding match from the group stages of the league cup played this Sunday to decide the winner of Group B. Millwall Lionesses and Cambridge City Ladies Development finishing level on points goal difference not counting. The pair going head to head again a thrilling 4-4 draw the last time they met. Cambridge the hosts this Sunday Millwall pressing for a goal in the first half not taking their chances the pair goalless at half-time, Cambridge improving in the 2nd half two young sides showing plenty of energy, Millwall ending the game strong Cambridge goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru with a couple of saves, in the end the 90 minutes couldn’t separate them and the game heading into extra-time both sides tiring Millwall awarded a penalty Shannan Drewe sending her spot kick over was to make amends in the 2nd period of extra-time a mazy run ending with a goal enough to see Millwall secure victory and progress to the knock-out stages of the League Cup, Cambridge going into the Plate competition.
ERWFL Division One North
With leaders Cambridge City Development in cup action this weekend it was a chance for the sides below to close the gap to the top once more. Frustration for 2nd placed East Bergholt United Ladies last time out losing 4-2 to AFC Sudbury Ladies were at home playing Newmarket Town Ladies this weekend. As it was defences stood firm as the pair battled out a goalless draw to both take a point from the match enough to keep East Bergholt 2nd 3 points back from the leaders.
Coming up the rails at a gallop are King’s Lynn Town Ladies up to 3rd in the ERWFL Division One North table with a 4th straight league win. Bar a penalty shootout loss are unbeaten in 7 now in all competitions. The Norfolk side travelling down into Suffolk this weekend to play Needham Market Women. King’s Lynn making a strong start leading within 2 minutes a 2nd coming before 10 minutes were on the clock, Needham Market coming back creating chances King’s Lynn getting the better of the hosts to score twice more to lead 4-0 at half-time. King’s Lynn holding their advantage deep into the 2nd period Needham Market with a late fightback, Sasha Diston letting fly from 30 yards with 16 minutes left finding the top corner to make it 4-1. Captain Nicola Henderson with a goal a minute later also hit from 30 yards out bringing it back to 4-2. 10 minutes left Henderson with another long range hit getting it back to 4-3. The hosts tails up pressing forwards in search of an equaliser King’s Lynn exposing the high line to get forwards a score a 5th goal to seal the win 5-3 in the 88th minute. Emma Corbyn with a pair. Captain Becky Russell with her 9th goal of the season and a first of the season for Lily Porter and Deva Rawlings.
AFC Sudbury Ladies travelled up to the Norfolk coast at the weekend looking to build on last Sunday’s win against East Bergholt as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies still looking for their first point since joining the ERWFL. A close contest Gorleston unlucky not to get more from the match as they went down narrowly 3-2. AFC Sudbury with back to back wins up to 5th in the Division One North table, goals from Olivia Gunn, Rebecca Stephenson and Amy Thompson securing the 3 points despite the visitors ending with 10 players Evie Creaton sent off for collecting 2 yellow cards. Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake with her first of the season scoring for Gorleston.
ERWFL Division One South
One game played in ERWFL Division One South this weekend and it was a good result at home for newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies their recent good form continuing their unbeaten run up to 4 matches now with 3 wins on the bounce. Taking on 4th placed Stevenage Women Development a brace from Rebecca Dalgarno along with a goal each for Georgia Holdaway, Kate Newton and Lucy Dalgarno seeing Leigh Ramblers to a 5-1 win that moves them level on points with 2nd placed Millwall Lionesses who they play this coming Sunday. Hannah Marshall scoring the goal for Stevenage.
All change at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division once again this Sunday with Wroxham Women taking over the lead for the first time this season over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who achieved the same feat last weekend. This weekend Peterborough Northern Star’s match away to Royston Town Women falling foul of the weather.
Wroxham Women 2nd in the table travelling down to play Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A 3G playing surface. Bowers & Pitsea looking to arrest a poor run of league results after a fine run in the Women’s FA Cup was brought to an end last weekend. Wroxham looking for a 4th straight league win. An even start to the game Bowers & Pitsea coming close to opening the lead striking the woodwork with 2 efforts. Wroxham going 1-0 in the 34th minute, top scorer Grace Birchall receiving a crossfield ball from Naomi Cooper cutting inside to beat the keeper. Cooper again setting up Birchall to score her 2nd of the game. Bowers & Pitsea pulling a goal back late in the first half Megan Harley shot firing its way in from 30 yards out. Wroxham restoring their 2 goal lead in stoppage time Birchall out pacing the defence through to score her hat-trick and make it 26 goals so far for the season. Bowers & Pitsea striking the woodwork for he 3rd time in the match in an attack that saw Wroxham goalkeeper Amy Bell forced off injured defender Grace Parker donning the gloves. Wroxham though finishing the match strongly a host of chances getting a 4th goal deep into stoppage time, a long range free-kick struck by Naomi Cooper finding the bottom corner her 1st goal of the season. Wroxham moving to the top of the table winning 4-1.
Previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies back in league action themselves this weekend after enjoying a run in the Women’s FA Cup, surrendering their lead in the Premier Division in that time were back at home this Sunday taking on St Ives Town Ladies in the league, Harlow unbeaten in the league dropping just 2 points. In fine goal scoring form too the Essex side taking the lead through top scorer Becky Shephard free at the near post to score off Chloe Bassett’s left wing cross. Shephard going on to score a hat-trick to put her on 13 for the season. Captain Kaydee King making it 2-0 to Harlow scoring with a looping header off a free-kick. Tayla Handscombe put away on the left smashing the ball in high on the angle from outside the box to put Harlow 4-0 up. A strong first half from the hosts Bassett played through on goal by Amy Nash on halfway to score their 6th. St Ives pulling a goal back before King headed home from another set-piece to make it 7-1. Beth Chambers and Hannah Porter also celebrating a goal each in a 9-1.
4th versus 5th saw Luton Town Ladies away to Colney Heath Ladies this Sunday both in good form recently incredibly tight in the top half of the Premier Division table. Luton starting well creating chances, Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler with a vital save. The hosts coming back into it striker Rianne Townsend-Brown put through to play the ball over the advancing keeper her effort back off the bar on 21 minutes. Goalless at the break, Luton taking the lead early in the 2nd half Funmi Babalola stealing the ball off the defence running in on goal to score. Colney Heath getting back on level terms 10 minutes later Samaira Khan firing into the roof of the net to make it 1-1 with her 11th strike of the season. Colney Heath exerting late pressure in the game Luton standing firm Elly Wade saving on the line to ensure the points were shared.
The Premier Division leaders can’t afford to let their foot off the gas at all incredibly close in the table all the way down to 8th, Wymondham Town Ladies with several players out injured long term winning at home on Sunday to put them on 12 points are only 6 off top spot were taking on AFC Dunstable Women struggling for points at the bottom of the table as their new look squad is still settling. Wymondham bringing in several players to bolster thier squad over the close season have goal scorers within their ranks young midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan opening the scoring inside 15 minutes shooting into the top corner to make it 1-0. New signing Mia Etheridge involved in the build up to the goal involved again for the 2nd just a minute later setting up captain Hannah Waters to score. Freya Symonds another new arrival in the summer scoring to put Wymondham 3-0 up midway through the 1st half. A dominant opening half hour Waters with the assist to set up O’Callaghan on 31 minutes to make it 4-0. O’Callaghan scoring from 25 yards out at the end of the 1st half to complete her hat-trick and see Wymondham leading comfortably 5-0. Dunstable battling 2nd half preventing Wymondham from adding to their tally managing to get a goal back themselves with 15 minutes left to play Louise McCay the scorer.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan
A point ahead of Wymondham in 7th are Bedford Ladies, they picked up the 3 points with a comfortable win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Amy Magnus getting her goals account for the season opened scoring a hat-trick. There was a brace each for Lauren Murray and Setor Acolatse with both Maya Sidhu and captain Priya Bhatti also on the scoresheet with a goal apiece in a 9-1 win.
ERWFL League Cup
Plenty of goals scored in the final round of group matches in the ERWFL League Cup this Sunday with the Division One sides battling for a place in the knock out stages of the competition the 4 group winners going on to join the Premier Division sides with the rest entering the Plate competition.
To one of these games Women’s Football East headed this Sunday, a landmark occasion personally with the last report written my 400th since I started scribbling on a notepad at games. Enjoyed every minute of it and plenty more to come.
Onto the game headed to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies in Group D, both with a win and a loss in their previous games, needed King’s Lynn Town Ladies to slip up away to Leigh Ramblers to have any chance of progressing. Hutton top of Division One South with a 100% record scoring plenty of goals, Histon coming into the game on a good run of results. Hutton getting off the the better start Histon not settling, the Essex side creating opportunities taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Clare Edmonson scoring her first Hutton goal with a looping effort top of the area to beat the keeper on the line dropping under the bar. Despite their dominance Hutton leading by just a single goal at half-time Histon finishing the half well encouraged entering the 2nd half.
Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball
Came very close to equalising Sophie Hopkins by line cross put in across pushed away by the keeper straight at substitute Rebekah Finch unable to get her foot up around the ball, Hutton broke to score up the other end the ball laid back to the top of the area for top scorer Vicky Kinsman to make it 2-0. Histon coming back to make it 2-1 straight away striker Poppy Kelly with a terrific shot across the keeper after shifting the ball well top of the area. Again Hutton came back to restore their 2 goal lead Kinsman captain Abigail Fry running clear taking the ball round the advancing keeper unselfishly setting up Kinsman to tap home into an empty net. Histon kept attacking Hutton comfortable to hit on the break adding a 4th through an unfortunate own goal with less than 10 minutes left Kinsman completing her hat-trick at the death to see the game won 5-1. The whole match report can be found further down the page.
Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick
In the end Hutton having to settle for 2nd place in Group D, there only loss of the season coming away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the competition a week ago the Norfolk side buoyed by that result travelled down to Essex to play newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies knowing a positive result would guarantee top spot. Tiffany Forshaw getting her 5th goal of the season and a 1st of the season for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse securing a 2-0 victory for the visitors.
Group A down to three sides following the sad withdrawal of Bishops Stortford Ladies from the league. Their opponents awarded the wins Stevenage FC Women Development not in action moving onto 6 points joining Newmarket Town Women who had beaten Bishops Stortford 13-0 before they pulled out another good result beating Stevenage 4-0 seeing them head into their final game at home to East Bergholt looking to make it a clean sweep in the group. East Bergholt with 3 points on the board could yet finish on 6 themselves and got off to a great start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes extended the advantage on 30 minutes to lead 2-0 at half-time, Newmarket with a mountain to climb as East Bergholt struck again early in the 2nd half to lead 3-0, Megan Partridge with a brace along with a goal for Stacey Teager. Katie Webb setting up Annabel Cuthbert seeing Newmarket get it back to 3-1 on the 54th minute. Cuthbert battling her way through the East Bergholt defence to net her 2nd of the match midway through the half. Moments later the comeback was complete Chloe Slater with the strike to make it 3-3. Newmarket winning the League Plate in their debut season in the ERWFL winning the game in the final 3 minutes, Cuthbert scoring from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick after Katie Webb was brought down inside the box. Newmarket winning Group A.
Group C yet to be decided Gorleston Ladies away match against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies falling foul to the weather. Needham Market Women topping the group with 2 wins from 2 likely to progress after their opponents Wodson Park Ladies couldn’t get a side.
In Group B it was all going to come down to who could score the most goals with Cambridge City Ladies Development and Millwall Lionesses on 4 points drawing 4-4 when they mat in the competition after winning their opening matches. Cambridge City at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies this weekend. Suffering a surprise 2-1 loss to them in the league itself last time out looking to make amends this time around had top scorer Carla Penny back in the starting line up and she carried on where she left off finding the back of the net for 4 goals. Ellie Cullum on target for a brace along with a goal for Freya Standing securing a 7-0 victory.
Millwall Lionesses were at home taking on Lawford Ladies who were short of numbers on the day. Again the sides meeting in the league last weekend Millwall coming out on top winning comfortably 10-3. Emily Stanley opening the scoring off an Ellis Lunn cross after just 7 minutes. Shannan Drewe adding a 2nd goal in quick succession. Ellis Lunn scoring a 3rd Millwall goal with 20 minutes gone. Thalia Broadman making her Millwall debut scoring her first goal for the club on 22 minutes netting from a 25 yard strike. Captain Ruby Snowden putting Millwall 5-0 up. Drewe rounding the keeper making it 6-0 completing a 1st half hat-trick. Broadman with her 2nd of the game seeing Millwall dominant leading 8-0 at half-time. Hard work for Lawford, Millwall kept coming 2nd half adding more goals. Snowden seeing a shot in off the post in the 48th minute. Millie Connell striking from the edge of the 18 yard box to bring up double figures. Hannah Cheeseman recently signed scoring a quickfire brace. Broadman getting a hat-trick on debut to make it 13-0. Drewe going on to add a further 2 gals giving her 5 in total. Stanley netting a 2nd goal. Snowden the 3rd Millwall player to celebrate a hat-trick with Elissa Stonebrook opening her account late on to see Millwall win 18-0 to top Group B and progress to the knockout stages.
Another milestone reached today, this Sunday’s game being my 400th match report since I started covering the sport back in 2012, originally as the Supporting Women’s Football blog now Women’s Football East have covered games at all levels across the country and enjoyed every minute of it. Today’s match action comes from the group stage of the ERWFL League Cup, Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies.
The Division One side usually contest the early round of the league cup in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) with the Premier Division sides entering later on. This season a different format in the early stages, the Division One sides split into a North & South Division this season starting off with 8 in each drawn into 4 groups, 2 from the North & 2 South in each play each other once with the group winners progressing to the knock out stages of the competition with the 12 Premier Division sides. The remaining Division One sides going on to contest for the ERWFL Plate. Histon and Hutton Ladies drawn into Group D along side, King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Leigh Ramblers Ladies. King’s Lynn Town Ladies in pole position to top the group with 2 wins from 2, avoid defeat today away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies in Essex and they will finish top.
A win and a defeat for both Histon and Hutton to date will need Leigh Ramblers to do them a favour if they hope to nick top spot. Histon Ladies come into today’s game in good form with 3 straight wins in league and cup. A 3-2 away victory to Leigh Ramblers getting them off the mark in the League Cup followed by back to back wins in the league to see them climb up to 3rd in the Division One North table. The Cambridgeshire side bringing in several new youngsters to bolster the squad over the close season, 3 in today’s starting line-up, Abby Laughlin, Poppy Kelly & Sydney Graham.
A perfect start to the season for Hutton Ladies, the Essex side topping the ERWFL Division One South table with a 100% record 4 wins from 4. 6 wins in all competitions that record hitting the buffers last time out travelling up to Norfolk to play King’s Lynn in the League Cup defeated for the first time this season the first time they had failed to score in a game too. That aside Hutton are scoring plenty of goals this season averaging over 8 goals a game so far helped in the main by the goals scoring form of striker Vicky Kinsman. Joining Hutton last season scored an incredible 49 goals in 27 appearances. Has 21 already this campaign. One of several experienced players to join last season with the likes of Hayley Piggott and Abigail Fry who have both played higher coming in. The squad bolstered again this season, have been amongst the silverware in recent seasons including back to back wins in the ERWFL Plate two seasons ago.
The Glassworld Stadium the venue for today’s match home to Histon FC and Histon Ladies. The heavy rain due the day before a threat to the match, it just about held out with no fresh rainfall on Sunday the game on. Wet would cut up and make for heavy going is a large pitch offering plenty of width. Plenty of cover too though for supporters a large seated stand over looking the pitch the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Light rain before the match as the sides warmed up, would thankfully fizzle out at kick-off and keep away, remained overcast.
Histon Ladies starting XI- Keeley Robinson, Abby Laughlin, Georgina Huse, Alison Wright, Tessa Shaw, Lauren Martin, Sophie Lanham (C) Sophie Hopkin, Sydney Graham, Siobhan White & Poppy Kelly. Subs – Rebekah Finch, Molly Blair, Casey Miller, Tara Fitzjohn.
Onto the match action, Hutton to kick-off the first half wearing navy blue shirts with red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Histon force Hutton to play it back to their defence the long kick forwards setting Lauren Knight away her ball forwards pushed on looking for Vicky Kinsman making a central run through towards the box intercepted and turned out for a throw. Hutton come on right side off a throw deep Clare Edmonson looks to take the ball on into the Histon box to the byline cuts it back inside the ball cleared at the near post.
Hutton settling quicker getting players forwards to the right another throw in conceded Kate Lowen to fire in the cross cut out by Alison Wright the ball loose top of the area Edmonson after it, so too Lauren Martin lunging in to get her foot on the ball first get it away for Histon. Histon make ground on the right side a throw in Sydney Graham combining well with Abby Laughlin, Graham cutting the ball back down the line to release Laughlin in behind, clipped rides the challenge recovering her footing to take the ball on her cross/shot taking a defection behind, play brought back however for the earlier foul. Siobhan White coming a cross to take it outside the box fired in towards the six yard box taken cleanly by Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover.
Lauren Martin on the ball for Histon Ladies
Glover setting Hutton on their way quickly a good kick up field over half way trapped beautifully at her feet by Edmonson killing the ball, flicks it on for Kinsman ahead of her, Hutton captain Abigail Fry bursting forwards to her right Kinsman rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out strikes it first time the shot over the bar. The resulting goalkick putting the Histon back line in trouble a slippy surface Kinsman latching onto it 30 yards out spins into a shoot left side the ball dipping late on goalkeeper Keeley Robinson right behind it down to stop it grabbing hold at the 2nd attempt. Kinsman showing good strength on the ball getting hold of it and turning to attack the Histon area, a cross in from the left dangerous, no one gambling through the middle.
GOAL! Closing in on 15 minutes played and Hutton take the lead, the goalkick straight to Kinsman, she passes it on to Edmonson ahead of her driving on plays it out to the left the ball crossed into the ox cut out deflected to the top of the area Edmonson there unmarked throws a leg out her first time attempt looping up over the defence and under the cross bar Robinson back on her line throws up a glove but can’t keep it out, 0-1. Edmonson’s first goal for Hutton.
Clare Edmonson opens the scoring for Hutton Ladies
Hutton capitalising on a good start winning the ball in the middle Hannah Page into Kinsman sending Lauren Knight clear in behind on the left down the line looking to get into the area, Wright getting across well to slide in and make the tackle taking the ball away from Knight’s toes. The defender up to play the ball up field doesn’t stick on the middle Kinsman rolled in again 35 yards out wide takes on the strike, on target but straight at Robinson.
Histon’s Alison Wright sliding in to win the ball back
Kate Lowen getting on the ball right side for Hutton drives forwards in behind into the area flashes a cross in, blocked by Wright, back to Lowen for a 2nd go on close to the near post, Robinson forwards down to smother the ball. The ball brought forwards from the back for Hutton played up to Kinsman up to head the ball on finds Lauren Knight out left bringing the ball on uses the outside of her boot to lift a diagonal ball into the area, Fry making a central run, Robinson can safely gather.
Hutton continue to have the lions share of the attack the ball not sticking up top for Histon the midfield having to track back often to help the defence as Hutton get players forwards. Edmonson with a great pass to find Lauren Knight on the left takes the ball on before squaring a cross into the area, Tessa Shaw doing well in central defence to keep in front of Kinsman to make sure she can’t get a touch the defender clearing. Hutton press the ball high keep Histon inside their final third, Page to Lauren Knight on the left crosses early an inviting ball along the six yard box, Kinsman throwing and outstretched leg forwards getting a tough, can only divert the ball wide out the far side.
Hutton striker Vicky Kinsman closely marked by Histon’s Tessa Shaw & Sophie Lanham
Shaw attempting to shield the ball back to her keeper is fouled by Kinsman gets the free kick. Histon get forwards White with the ball over the top on the left running on cuts inside looking for a shooting opportunity top of the area lets fly from 20 yards out her strike over the crossbar. Graham showing great close ball control bringing the ball inside on halfway looks to put it forwards almost succeeds in releasing Poppy Kelly through the middle but for an outstretched leg from Hutton defender Kristy Knight doing enough to take the ball out of Kelly’s path allowing Kelly Roberts to clear.
Abby Laughlin bringing the ball away for Histon Ladies
Signs Histon are starting to get a foothold in the game took a while to settle on the back foot. Captain Sophie Lanham back to clear the ball from her own box for Histon. White away on the left side comes inside for Histon, this time runs into Roberts neutralising the danger. Hutton remain a threat on the counter a throw right into Kinsman holds the ball up well turning to shoot on the angle, coming in near post Robinson sees it late gets a glove onto the ball knocking it behind for the corner.
Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball
Hutton make the first change of the match, Lauren Knight coming off for Hayley Critchell. The substitute with an early opportunity to take the ball on left side carrying it towards the area, Laughlin with a superb tackle right on the line to take the ball. Hutton with another change as Sally Appleton enters the game replacing, Edmonson. Kristy Knight with a good tackle at the back to deny Graham as shot as she carries the ball forwards into the area from the right.
Histon build through the middle Graham right inside for Lanham her pass forwards releasing Kelly right takes defenders on cutting back into the box running square of goal. Pushes the ball on for White on the penalty spot she back heels it on as Kelly’s run takes her past her the attacker taking on the shot, Glover saving with her legs. Histon win a free-kick inside the Hutton half players forwards into the box as White sets the ball down knocked down by the defence Kelly intercepts looks to bring under control and turn and shot her attempt blocked spins behind for a corner. Histon ending the first half well.
Sydney Graham looking to play the ball forwards for Histon
White coming left crossing in Kelly running in with a defender shooting, Glover hands up to make the blocking save. Hutton attack late on Kinsman putting the ball on for Critchell left tackled by Laughlin top of the area, the ball skipping up and behind Laughlin losing sight of it Critchell in to lift a cross into the middle, drops far side no one can reach it. Late in the half a throw right fro Histon, Graham receiving firing in a dangerous cross, Franklin getting a touch to take it away from Kelly attacking the far post.
Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Hutton Ladies
Hutton leading the match 1-0 at half-time have been the dominant side making a good start creating opportunities, getting players in behind, several dangerous crosses not finding anyone. Good hold up play and runs from midfield particularly from Fry. Histon took a while to settle starting to come into the match late on creating some good opportunities themselves, trailing by the single goal are far from out of it yet.
A change fro both sides at half-time by the looks of it, Rebekah Finch on for Histon replacing White, Hopkin now over on the left. Hayley Piggott on in defence for Hutton replacing Franklin. The sun doing it’s best to break through setting into the the end of the ground into the faces of the Hutton defence. Histon to get the 2nd half underway. An early chance for Histon coming close to equalising Hopkin off a throw left driving on to the byline a vicious cross put across the face of goal, Glover throwing herself at it palming it on straight to Finch central coming at her quickly tries to adjusted her body get a foot up to meet the ball minimal contact Hutton close in to clear.
GOAL! A golden chance to level the scores at one end Histon are hit on the counter the ball sent long up to Critchell left the defence don’t deal inside the box Critchell retrieving on the byline playing the ball back up to the top of the box Kinsman latching onto it left of the D to shoot place the ball wide of the keeper 0-2.
Histon bring the ball on Graham over half way passing to Lanham making a move on the right wing a cross lifted up into the area near side into Kelly’s path lays it on to Finch ahead of her Kristy Knight going with her run near post successfully defending for Hutton.
GOAL! Histon get a goal back straight away after conceding early in the 2nd half, Hutton looking to get the ball forwards quickly won at the back by Georgina Huse lifted forwards up the left to put Hopkin away into space, rolls it infield to Kelly 20 yards out left of goal head down looks to take on the Hutton defence, pushes right then shifts it left creating space to take on the shot a smash a shot high across the keeper 1-2.
Poppy Kelly central with the goal for Histon
Finch with a shot from 25 yards out for Histon brushes the top of the net on its way over.
GOAL! Hutton with a quickfire reply to score a 3rd goal attack quickly through the middle the ball put on for Fry racing trough left channel, Robinson coming out of her goal to meet her Fry knocking the ball past her on towards left open for the shot, sees Kinsman storming through unmarked inside her unselfish squared the ball into her path the striker with the simple finish to make it 1-3.
Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman
A busy start to the 2nd half 3 goals scored an open game Histon looking more of a threat scoring but hit for 2 up the other end. Appleton brings Hopkin down on the left outside the box giving Histon the free Kick. Lanham over it fired in low towards the near post a combination of defence and keeper getting it away for Hutton. the visitors break Kinsman on halfway playing it on for Lowen right support from Appleton a high ball into the box dealt with by the Histon defence.
Krissie Glover keeping the ball out for Hutton Ladies
Hutton break miss a great opportunity to go 4-1 ahead as Critchell bombs on left side crossing from a tight angle the ball across the keeper missed by Lowen close in at the far post. Histon come forwards Martin up for Kelly to attack brings the ball on towards the Hutton box, tackled well by Kristy Knight. Hutton are giving away alot of free kicks, Histon so far not making the most of them but it is a concern for Hutton’s bench, Dimmock receiving a talking too by the referee. Lanham on a set-piece right of the centre circle a good delivery in long to the far post Wright the runners catching it first time can’t get the ball down on target.
Hutton Ladies, Kate Lowen with Histon’s Georgina Huse
Histon winning a corner left side in towards the near post defended, Kelly putting the ball back to the corner taker crossed in again this time Fry and Page combine top of the box to get the threat away for Hutton. Histon do well to press the ball high regain possession Lanham lifting the ball on almost finding Wright stealing in behind. Histon make a change with 23 minutes left to play, Hopkin coming off on comes summer signing Molly Blair.
Kinsman getting hold of the ball for Hutton left side 30 yards out drives on towards the box a powerful run, tackled by Wright the ball pushed wide to the left gathered by the advancing Critchell puts it back to Kinsman backing away from the area 25 yards out puts her foot throw the ball blasts a shot towards goal, Robinson with a full stretch dive to her left lands to hear the ball thump into the boarding behind goal the shot narrowly wide.
Chances falling to both side prepared to shoot outside the box, Kelly smashes a shot from all of 30 yards out central that stings the keepers gloves rebounding out to the right picked up by Graham racing forwards she blasts over on the angle. Hutton make a change Lauren Knight returning to the game replacing Roberts. Another silly free kick given away by Hutton left side a chance for Histon to bring players up from the back Lanham on the ball sent in towards the top of the area a Hutton head on the ball looping high into the air and towards goal, Glover eyes on nothing else back on her line with the confident take.
Histon Ladies, Alison Wright
Graham brought down inside the Hutton half, the free kick met by Finch heading it in top of the area off target Glover coming across to claim. Histon capitalise from a bit of ping ball on halfway the ball deflected in behind for Graham right side to bring on plays in early for Kelly racing on through the middle shoots first time as it runs across her path a poor connection lacking power on target but Glover can shuffled across her goal to gather at the right post.
Lowen in an advanced position on the right for Hutton shifts the ball left the right before shooting from outside the area the ball held cleanly by Robinson in goal. Histon bring off Lanham with around 10 minutes left to play bringing on another summer signing Casey Miller. Hutton come on right side Lowen sending a cross into the box just behind the run of Lauren Knight central the ball cleared back out to the right Appleton up the pitch shooting across goal, Lauren Knight sliding in far post but Robinson down bravely has the ball safely into her body. Piggott fouls Kelly outside the area Wright on the free kick 20 yards out goes for goal on target by straight at the keeper.
GOAL! 7 minutes of normal play left the game stretched now players getting tired Hutton extend their lead making the game safe. Lauren Knight away on the left side putting in a dangerous cross into the six yard box a defender there first ahead of Kinsman throws a leg up to meet the ball is an unfortunate own goal the ball turned into the back of the net 1-4.
Changes for both sides now, Edmonson and Franklin back on for Hutton replacing, Lowen and Kristy Knight. Tara Fitzjohn on for Laughlin for Histon. Kinsman on the attack central for Hutton lays it on for Lauren Knight the ball cut out inside the box comes out to Appleton up on the right drives a shot in towards goal, Robinson getting her gloves up to save the ball cleared only to come straight back in headed away by Shaw.
Hutton win a rare free kick of their own outside the Histon box on the right Piggott up to take goes for goal a well struck effort that flies wide past the par post. Blair flicking the ball on Finch controlling and turning to shoot on the volley top of the area straight into the keepers gloves.
GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Kinsman central played in battles her way through in towards the top of the area Wright on her shoulder to beat the defender and get a shot away past the advancing keeper to complete her hat-trick 1-5.
Full time Histon Ladies 1-5 Hutton Ladies
Hutton with two late goals win the match 5-1, a better 2nd half from Histon came out strong at the start of the 2nd half only to concede a 2nd goal. Kelly with a superb strike to bring it back to 2-1 Hutton were quick to restore their two goal lead. Chances for both as the match opened up Hutton giving away free kicks Histon not able to find a 2nd goal apply some pressure Hutton going on to win comfortably. All for nothing in the end as they finish 2nd in Group D behind King’s Lynn Town Ladies who made it 3 wins from 3 away to Leigh Ramblers to advance to the knockout stages. Both Hutton and Histon who reached the final of the competition last season will fancy their chances in the Plate.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Notable performances from Poppy Kelly in attack and Alison Wright in defence for Histon. For Hutton it’s a close call in the finish, excellent work in midfield from captain Abigail Fry with several fantastic runs forwards during the match. Have chosen Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick of course but more than that her presence up front general hold up play and strength on the ball, drawing defenders towards her giving space for others to exploit.
400 match reports written and the thing I love about doing them is no two are the same get a buzz every time. The content comes solely from the players out there on the pitch and I merely try and put it into words. Plenty more left in the tank, need those team details as always and much appreciated… on to the next one.
The Women’s FA Cup pushing this weeks ERWFL Round-Up back a bit. Plenty of action to cover and it is an ever changing picture at the top of the Premier Division table with new leaders at the top. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving a point clear at the top winning a 4th straight league game away to Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Taking advantage of previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies involvement in the Women’s FA Cup. Leah Cudone a prolific attacker wherever she’s played joining Peterborough Northern Star this season put 4 into the back of the net on Sunday against bottom side Haringey to take her tally to the season into double figures. A first goal of the season too for Georgia Coulson as Peterborough wrapped up a 5-1 win their only loss in the league so far this season coming on the opening day.
10 goals so far for Peterborough Norther Star Ladies, Leah Cudone (photo credit PNS Ladies)
Wroxham Women taking advantage too to Harlow’s involvement in the Women’s FA Cup despite the Essex side knocking them out in the previous round to move above them in the Premier Division table into 2nd. Back in action at home after two weeks were taking on Colney Heath Ladies, the Hertfordshire side showing good form recently to climb up the 2nd in the Premier Division table. Wroxham bringing that spell to an abrupt end taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Amber Rowland played in to shoot and find the bottom corner. Grace Birchall amongst the goals for Wroxham early in the season netting her 23rd goal from just 9 appearances midway through the 2nd half, running into a long ball to beat the defence and shoot into the top corner. An own goal from Colney Heath seeing Wroxham leading 3-0 at half-time. Lauren Bullard introduced by Wroxham at the start of the 2nd half making it 4-0 in the 58th minute would go on to get a 2nd midway through the half to help secure a 5-0 win for Wroxham.
Royston Town Women another side taking full advantage of others involvement in the Women’s FA Cup to climb up into 4th spot in the ERWFL Premier Division. Just 3 points behind the leaders level on points with 3rd placed Harlow now. Unbeaten in 4 in the league now won comfortably away from home this Sunday taking on AFC Dunstable Women. Just the bare 11 for Dunstable struggling at the bottom of the league Royston have goals in their squad this season notably from Rebecca Vass the new signing scoring 4 against Dunstable to take her to 11 for the season. Emma Slater and Ellie Wilkerson both getting a goal each with first goals of the season too for Angharad Chambers and Georgia Gannaway. An 8-0 win for Royston.
ERWFL Division One North
Four wins and a draw to start the season for newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies Development were leading the way in the ERWFL Division One North as they travelled to AFC Sudbury Ladies at the weekend. The hosts relegated from the ERWFL Premier Division losing their opening 2 league games without a point on the board a new look side this season a young squad. A great start to the match for the hosts though taking the lead in the 15th minute Rebecca Stephenson firing in a great shot from the top of the box taking a nick off a defender to loop up into the top corner. Sudbury going 2-0 up midway through the 1st half, Stephenson to target again striking from a long way out to celebrate her 2nd of the game. Minutes later Sudbury were down to 10 as goalkeeper Amelia Carter was sent of bringing down striker Bella Simmons outside the box. Sudbury lead 2-0 at half-time playing the 2nd half with 10. Battled hard in defence, Cambridge getting it back to 2-1 straight after the restart with Simmons scoring. Sudbury frustrating thier opponents wasn’t to be Cambridge’s day as they failed to find another goal Sudbury getting their first win under their belts.
A local derby elsewhere in the ERWFL Division One North with Suffolk sides East Bergholt United Ladies & Needham Market Women meeting in the league for the 1st time both promoted to the ERWFL this season following a season long battle last season at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Contrasting starts to the season, East Bergholt beginning with 2 straight wins before losing to Cambridge City a third win keeping them 2nd in the table a loss last time out narrowly at home to King’s Lynn. Needham Market Women have played just one league match to date a 3-3 draw against Histon Ladies. Meeting this Sunday the sides enjoying another close game in the end a single goal enough to secure the 3 points the win going to hosts East Bergholt, ex-AFC Sudbury player Megan Partridge on target for her 5th goal of the season since joining the club. East Bergholt moving to within a point of leaders Cambridge City.
A single goal too enough to win the 3 points for Histon Ladies away from home on Sunday taking on Newmarket Town Women in the ERWFL Division One North. A frustrating start to the season for Histon Ladies, just one point won in 3 league games coupled with two cup defeats. Bringing in several new players to bolster the squad over the close season have started to find some form back to back wins in league and cup were looking to make it 3 on the spin away to Newmarket who were keen to get their season going themselves making a good start themselves with a win and a draw. A hard fought win going Histon’s way in the finish the winning goal coming on the hour, Poppy Kelly latching onto Lauren Martin’s through ball to shoot past the keeper. Histon up to 3rd in the table with 7 points on the board.
ERWFL Division One South
Two game played in the ERWFL Division One South this weekend and with the top two not in league action it was a chance for 3rd placed Millwall Lionesses to close the gap as they hosted bottom side Lawford Ladies. The bare 11 for Lawford, Millwall making an unbeaten start to the season with 2 wins and a draw. Millwall getting off to a brilliant start getting themselves into a 4-0 lead inside 15 minutes! Ellie Lunn finding the bottom corner to open the scoring in the 7th minute. Molly Hawkins scoring from close range doubling the lead in the 12th minute. Hawkins with a quick fire double chipping the keeper on the volley to make it 3-0. Shannan Drewe intercepting and firing in a shot across goal bringing up the hosts 4th. Lawford rallying somewhat battling hard at the back. Millwall striking the woodwork. Lawford pulling a goal back in the 34th minute the ball lifted over the keeper. Hawkins though completing her hat-trick to see Millwall leading 5-1 at the break.
Millwall slow out of the blocks 2nd half, Lawford pulling it back to 5-2 scoring from a corner. 10 minutes into the 2nd period and Millwall themselves were back amongst the goals Ruby Snowden firing into the top corner to make it 6-2. A 7th goal brought up on the hour with Samantha Middleton getting on the scoresheet with the finish. An 8th goal soon following Drewe rifling home for her 2nd of the match. Lawford not giving up by any stretch getting on the scoresheet for a third goal themselves bringing it back to 8-3. Drewe seeing her shot saved new signing Hannah Cheeseman chasing in on the follow up sending the ball over the line for her first goal for the club. Snowden getting her 2nd goal of the match to see Millwall reach double figures with 15 minutes left. A 10-3 win seeing Millwall move level on 10 points with 2nd placed Stevenage FC Women Development.
Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One South newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies young guns were at home to Wodson Park Ladies. A win and a loss for Leigh Ramblers so far from 2 league games played. Wodson Park yet to win a point frustrated at the start of their season. Leigh Ramblers bringing in Georgia Holdaway this season, amongst the goals last season playing for Brentwood was on target again this weekend for her 3rd goal since joining the club. Emily Diwell also on target getting her third goal of the campaign to see Leigh Ramblers win the match 2-0 to move clear in 4th place in the table.
ERWFL League Cup
Postponed from a fortnight ago ERWFL Division One South leaders Hutton Ladies were away to Norfolk side King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the ERWFL Cup group stage this weekend. The Essex side with a 100% success rate so far in league and cup matches to start the season and scoring plenty of goals in the process, a strong start for Hutton, King’s Lynn making an indifferent start doing well to keep their opponents for scoring this weekend for the first time this season Hutton drawing a blank in front of goal. King’s Lynn going on to win the match 3-0. Captain Becky Russell scoring twice to move onto 5 goals for the season with attacker Oksana Imanalijeva scoring her first goal of the season.
Continues to be very tight on the ERWFL Premier Division, now a 4 way tie at the top on 13 points, with everyone else bunched up behind, all the way down to 10th place St Ives Town Ladies who lay 6 points behind the leading pack. Harlow Town Ladies despite not being in action holding onto top spot on goal difference, Colney Heath Ladies in County Cup action this weekend retaining 2nd spot, joining the pair on 13 points at the top of the table are Luton Town Ladies & Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.
Luton Town Ladies back up into 3rd place were back in league action for the 1st time in 3 weeks having lost for the first time this season away to current leaders Harlow Town Ladies. At home this Sunday were taking on bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Luton taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes Funmi Babalola scoring her 4th goal of the season. Haringey holding Luton at bay for another half hour before the hosts doubled their lead Zara Carroll’s shot finding the top corner. Jess McKay making it 3-0 with her 7th goal of the season late in the first period. A 4th goal coming early in the 2nd half Erica Bryon scoring her first goal of the season on 47 minutes would go on to score a hat-trick with two quick fire goals on the hour. a 6-0 the goals flowed then for Luton on top adding a further 5 to win the game 11-0. Babalola going on to complete her hat-trick, Carroll adding a further goal along with a brace for Rebecca Kane.
Katie Steward
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies away to AFC Dunstable Women at the weekend like Haringey with just the one point on the board. Peterborough Northern Star undefeated since a narrow loss on the opening day gunning for a 3rd straight win. A brace each for Leah Cudone taking her to 6 goals for the season and last seasons top scorer Katie Steward seeing Peterborough Northern Star head home with the 3 points to put them level amongst the leading pack on 4th spot.
Leah Cudone
7 points earned from their last 4 league games Bedford Ladies climb up to 7th spot in the ERWFL Premier Division onto 10 points level with 6th placed Royston Town Women albeit having played 3 games more and just 3 points from the leading quartet. Bounced back from last weekend defeat away to Wymondham Town Ladies to win the 3 points at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who find themselves slipping down the table after making an encouraging start to the season. Bowers & Pitsea making a great start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes new signing Yasmin Cowley striking for her first goal for the club. Bedford coming back to quickly equalise the initial shot well saved Carissa Kaczorowski there on the follow up to send the ball over the line to make it 1-1. The sides level at half-time Bedford would go on to find the winning goal midway through the 2nd half. Maya Sidhu in plenty of space on the left a through ball finding her taking the ball on to slot into the bottom corner to put Bedford into the lead.
ERWFL Division One North
Cambridge City Ladies Development making a fantastic start to the season following promotion to the ERWFL playing in Division One North 4 wins from for so far, were defending their 100% start at home to Newmarket Town Women this Sunday the visitors with a 100% win record themselves albeit having played just the one league match so far. Newmarket starting well taking the lead on the 17th minute, winning a corner Chloe Slater to put the ball in, Beth Woodfield heading on across goal, Jodie Woodfield nodding in from close range to make it 1-0. Striker Annabel Cuthbert making it 2-0 with her 8th goal of the season. A chance to go 3 up from the penalty spot missed by Cuthbert towards the end of the first period hitting the bar. Cambridge’s defence working hard to keep Newmarket at bay needed a better 2nd half performance. The hosts awarded a penalty on the hour dispatched by Carla Penny to put her joint top scorer on 9 with Bella Simmons making it 2-1. Cambridge pressing for another goal forcing a good save from Newmarket keeper Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls. The hosts given a 2nd penalty with 20 minutes to go Penny successful from the spot levelling the scores to see Cambridge & Newmarket share the points losing their 100% starts stay undefeated.
Far from the start to the season that King’s Lynn Town Ladies were looking for losing their opening two league matches in ERWFL Division One North postponements halting their season for the past two weekends were finally back in action this Sunday the Norfolk side travelling down into Suffolk to play newly promoted East Bergholt United Ladies who have made a promising start to the season playing at a higher level winning 3 of their opening 4 league games currently 2nd in the table. King’s Lynn beginning the match well dominating early on getting into the lead midway through the first half, striker Tiffany Forshaw firing home her 4th goal of the season. The lead doubled on the stroke of half-time captain Becky Russell driving a shot in, King’s Lynn 2-0 up at half-time. East Bergholt came out battling in the 2nd half looking to get back into the match eventually pulling a goal back in the final quarter hour Katie Bruce on target with her first goal of the season. King’s Lynn holding out to claim their first league points of the season.
Histon Ladies with just a point on the board after 3 played in Division One North were looking for their first league win of the season this Sunday at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. A chance to take an early lead as the hosts were awarded a penalty in the opening couple of minutes. Alison Wright to take scoring off the rebound to make it 1-0. Sydney Graham on target to score her first goal for Histon in the 36th minute seeing them into a 2-0 lead at the break. Histon creating further chances in the 2nd period Graham hitting the bar and Sophie Hopkin seeing a shot pushed onto the post Sudbury pulled it back to 2-1 in the 81st minute with scoring her first goal of the season to set up a nervous finish Histon though celebrating the win at the final whistle.
Histon Ladies, Sydney Graham (photo credit Gary Reed)
ERWFL League Cup
One game from the group stage of the ERWFL League Cup played this Sunday postponed from last weekend, in Group C Gorleston Ladies hosting Needham Market Women. Both new to the league. Jason Croft stepping down as Gorleston’s manager this week, oversaw the clubs rise through the leagues gaining two promotions. Player/coach Sophie Gillett stepping up to become manager as the club look to build within the ERWFL. Needham market keen to to make their mark in the ERWFL. A close game scrappy on occasions Gorleston working hard with Needham Market creating opportunities early on the visitors taking the lead in the 11th minute with captain Nicola Henderson’s cross sot finding it’s way over the line. Gorleston proving hard to break down Needham Market without creating too much to trouble Needham market at the other end the hosts having one ruled out for offside, Henderson’s early goal proving the difference.
Was once again another great weekend for Colney Heath Ladies in the ERWFL Premier Division, once again they were the only top 6 side in action in the league on Sunday and took full advantage with back to back wins to climb up into 2nd in the table level on points with leaders Harlow Town Ladies. Away this Sunday were playing newly promoted Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Colney Heath rattling the post in the opening minutes with captain Sheree Oliver striking from 18 yards out. The visitors lacklustre for a spell after came to life again on the half hour another warning shot with Charlene Moreton seeing a shot cannon off the bar. The opening goal scored with 7 minutes left of the first half Samaira Khan with the cutback for Oliver to tap home. A corner won a minute later the ball in controlled by full back Eustacia Randles inside rifling the ball into the roof of the net to make it 2-0 and see her celebrate her first goal of the season.
Opportunities for Bowers & Pitsea trailing 2-0 at the break were soon trailing by 3 Colney Heath scoring again 4 minutes into the restart, Samaira Khan proving to be a potent goal threat since joining from AFC Dunstable scoring her 8th goal of the season. Goalkeeper Amy Butler saving to deny Bowers & Pitsea a goal the visitors awarded a penalty on the hour a clinical finish from Lucy Hancock t make it 4-0. Khan wrapping up a 5-0 win scoring her 2nd of the match with 15 minutes left.
A run of frustrating results for Wymondham Town Ladies was brought to an end at home this Sunday was they recorded their 2nd league win playing Bedford Ladies. The Norfolk side taking the lead in the 23rd minute Hannah Waters lobbing the keeper to score her 8th goal of the season. Chelsea Clarke involved in the build-up to that goal had the assist to see Waters double the lead just 3 minutes later. Bedford catching Wymondham in possession Carissa Kaczorowski capitalising to pull it back to 2-1 before half-time. That how the scores remained leading up to the final 15 minutes of the game Mollie O’Callaghan sending a shot across the keeper to give Wymondham a 2 goal lead. Wymondham adding a 4th goal with 10 minutes left to win 4-1 O’Callaghan seeing her corner headed against the Bedford crossbar by one of their own defenders Freya Symonds pouncing on the rebound to score.
St Ives Town Ladies are beginning to find their feet and confidence playing at this level for the first time have now collected 7 points from their last 3 games after losing their opening 4 league games since winning promotion as Division One champions last season. Away to struggling Haringey Borough Women this weekend came home with all 3 points in the bag. Attackers Georgia Stancombe and Tierney Coulson both getting on the scoresheet with a goal each along with captain Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring from the penalty spot in a 3-1 win.
ERWFL League Cup
The 2nd Round of group games from this season’s new look ERWFL Cup played this weekend the 16 (now 15) Division One sides North & South divided up into 4 groups of 4 playing each other once with the group winners progressing to the knockout stages. 7 matches scheduled the weather playing it’s part unfortunately seeing the games between Gorleston , & Needham Market & King’s Lynn & Hutton postponed. AFC Sudbury awarded an away win over Lawford Ladies left 4 to be played.
In group A, Newmarket Town Women were hosting Stevenage FC Women Development both starting with a win. Newmarket’s win however against the now withdrawn Bishops Stortford and not sure that result win count. Nevertheless playing Stevenage in good form in Division One South, Newmarket picked up another great result winning the match 4-0. Young striker Annabel Cuthbert scoring a brace in the game has 7 goals now from 5 played. Katie Webb not far behind with a goal in the game to take her to 6 goals from 5 played. Lauren Deller also on the scoresheet with her 3rd goal of the season.
A 100% winning start to the season in both league and cup for Cambridge City Ladies Development topping Division One North were away to Millwall Lionesses unbeaten in 3rd in Division One South this Sunday also winning their opening League Cup group match. Meeting in group B. An early goal for the hosts Ellis Lunn chasing the ball down forcing an error from the keeper to tap home into the empty net beyond. Cambridge getting it back all square midway through the 1st half Ellie Cullum seeing her initial shot come back of the keeper slotting the ball in to make it 1-1. Lunn from close range restoring Millwall’s lead, Cambridge hitting back with an instant reply Bella Simmons pouncing as the hosts failed to deal with a long ball. 2-2 at the break. Millwall taking the lead again on the hour Cansu Mentash getting onto the end of a corner to find the back of the net. The clock closing down to the final 10 minutes Millwall extended their lead Shannan Drewe striking to find the bottom corner from outside the box. Again Cambridge came back with an instant reply Simmons with her 2nd of the game to make it 4-3. The visitors rescuing a point in the final minute of the game Rachel Pearce scoring the goal to see it finish 4-4.
All very tight in Group C with 3 sides all on 3 points now. Wodson Park Ladies losing their opening group game against Gorleston away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Sunday. Hoddesdon losing to Needham Market in their opening group match was a vital victory in the competition for Wodson Park as they collect the 3 points courtesy of a 4-0 win.
Was also a vital win in the competition for Histon Ladies on Sunday away to Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies both losing their opening group D games to King’s Town Ladies & Hutton Ladies respectfully that game called off a chance for one or the other to join the pair on 3 points. Goals from Siobhan White and Poppy Kelly on her debut seeing Histon leading 2-0 at half-time. Leigh Ramblers battling back 2nd half to level the scores with Rebecca Dalgarno and Georgia Holdaway on target with a goal a piece. Kelly scoring an 89th minute winner for Histon was unfortunate to see a penalty saved in injury time to deny her a hat-trick.
A big weekend in the ERWFL calendar as the season draws to a close the league titles settled, this Sunday it was the turn of the cup competitions the League Cup and Plate. Women’s Football East was at both games and as I already written over 7,000 words in those match reports shall simply say to read the full report simply scroll down the page to the previous posts.
Nevertheless we’ll start at the end. The winners! Beginning with the League Cup, Cambridge City Ladies looking to do the double having won the Premier Division taking on Bedford Ladies. A fast start to the game from Bedford saw them race into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 5 minutes, captain Michelle Byrne from a corner and Eden Kibron shooting across the keeper the goalscorers. Cambridge making a sluggish start slowly getting back into it making changes, a free-kick fired into the near post spilt by the keeper seeing Megan Tonks fire home to make it 2-1 before half-time.
Hannah Bodily sending a shot in from outside the box to make it 2-2 in the 2nd period both sides creating further chances, none taken the game heading into extra-time a tense period of extra play following neither side finding the winning goal it went all the way to penalties. Cambridge up first scoring, then goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru saved Bedford’s opening penalty, scoring there next three, Bedford having scored their next two penalties had to score their 4th to stay in it put wide, Cambridge City were the side celebrating winning the League Cup and doing the double.
Cambridge City Ladies 2018/19 ERWFL League Cup winners
ERWFL League Plate
Before the League Cup Final, Histon Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies met in a morning kick-off to contest the League Plate Final. Another closely fought game. Newmarket taking an early lead awarded a free-kick, Jess Linger shooting from distance her shot not kept out. Histon though were soon back on level terms awarded a free-kick of their own wide on the area Kaya Haq striking it well putting her shot over the keeper in under the bar at the far post. Histon going on to take the lead themselves scoring from another fee-kick put into the box, the ball falling to Rebekah Finch to score from close range.
2-1 to Histon at half-time Newmarket making a bright start to the 2nd half were level on 55 minutes a young striker Annabel Cuthbert getting free at the far post to stab a shot under the keeper. 2-2 the game moving into the final 15 minutes Newmarket scoring a 3rd goal. Hannah Rogers straight from a corner. Proving to be the winning goal Newmarket winning silverware in their debut season in the ERWFL.
Newmarket Town Ladies, 2018/19 ERWFL Plate winners
ERWFL Premier Division
Two games played in the ERWFL Premier Division too this Sunday and both involving the battle for 2nd place. Royston Town Ladies holding the spot going into their final game of the season were at home to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. Level on points with 3rd placed Acle United Women, Royston started positively against Peterborough even early on the visitors opening the scoring through Katie Steward who then make it 2-0 past the half hour. Leah Cudone on target with a goal too to see Peterborough leading 3-0 at half-time.
2 quick goals at the start of the 2nd half from Emma Pollard and Vicky Gallagher with a stunning strike making it 5-0 to Peterborough with less than 5 minutes played in the 2nd period. Steward going on to complete her hat-trick minutes later to make it 6. Another goal for Steward making it 7-0 with her 19th goal of the season. Royston getting a consolation goal back through Charlotte South. Cudone found the back of the net for her 2nd of the afternoon to see Peterborough win convincingly 8-1 to keep alive their hopes of a 5th placed finish and inflict a damaging defeat on Royston.
Costly in their final game to as they finish 3rd, over taken by Acle United Women who were playing their last ever game under that name as they become Wroxham. Playing their final game at Wroxham’s Trafford Park to showcase their talents to their prospective new support ended on a high taking on Colney Heath Ladies who were ending the season positively themselves this game abandoned earlier in the season. Grace Birchall firing Acle into the lead first half. Charlene Moreton getting Colney Heath back on level terms the sides all square 1-1 at half-time. Acle coming up with the winning goal 2nd half Birchall scoring her 2nd of the game and 33rd of the season over all to see Acle win the game and in doing so clinch runners-up spot.
ERWFL Division One
Likewise there were two games played in Division One this Sunday. King’s Lynn Town Ladies coming on strong towards the end of the season up to fifth with games in hand on the sides above were away to bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies playing their final game of what has been a very difficult season. The hosts scoring twice through Natasha Coppin and Poppy Kelly, King’s Lynn coming back to Norfolk with the 3 points in the bag scoring 6 up the other end with 4 of those goals belonging to Rachel Skinner her first goals for the club. Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse and Annie Rooks celebrating the other goals two games left go to champions and unbeaten St Ives Town Ladies next.
In the other game on Sunday in Division One their were plenty of goals to as Hutton Ladies hosted Lawford Ladies playing their final game of the season. Vicky Kinsman scoring her 49th goal (1st team) of the season for Hutton along with a goal for Rosi Webb and a 1st goal for Danielle Cliffe. Lawford matching them up the other end however scoring three themselves to end their first season in the ERWFL on a positive note.
On to the 2nd final of the day the sun high in the sky to greet Bedford Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies as they step out onto the pitch at The County Ground in preparation for this afternoon’s ERWFL League Cup Final.
ERWFL League Cup
Another close looking final on the cards between the two Premier Division sides. Bedford a long established side at regional level a brief spell in the FAWNL coming to an end 3 seasons ago. Currently in mid-table on their day a side capable of beating anyone else have won as many as they have lost often by the odd goal. A strong run in the League Cup aswell as the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup where they successfully defended the trophy against rivals Luton Town back in March. A tough test today as close as it might appear Cambridge City remain unbeaten in the ERWFL this season.
Cambridge City’s stay in the ERWFL soon to come to an end after 3 season’s a rapid rise in that time losing just 4 league matches along the way. Winning the ERWFL Division One title in their debut season at this level along with a League Cup final appearance. A runners-up finish in the Premier Division following last season. Pushed on again this campaign winning the title with games to spare unbeaten dropping just 2 league points, now looking to follow that up with the double a success acheived two season’s ago by Haringey Borough Women. Promotion to the FAWNL to come the club with a strong youth set up to back up the first and development teams, Goals throughout the side.
Road to the Final
The ERWFL Premier Division sides entering the League Cup competition at the 3rd Round stage. The last 16 Bedford Ladies handed a tough draw at home to Premier Division newcomers Wymondham Town Ladies, a single goal enough to see them beat the Norfolk side. Cambridge City Ladies alos at home in the last 16 hosting Division One side Hutton Ladies with new striker Vicky Kinsman in their ranks firing in plenty of goals. Cambridge City restricting her to just the one however as they found the back of the net up the other end for 8 goals themselves.
Into the quarter finals another tough looking draw for Bedford as they were away to St Ives Town Ladies the Division One newcomers hitting the ground running making an unbeaten start, not conceding many either the tie going all the way to extra-time Bedford finding the crucial winning goal to book a spot in the last 4. Cambridge City at home to Colney Heath Ladies a 2-0 win against their fellow Premier Division side seeing them into the semi-finals.
Into the last 4 and a strong all Premier Division line-up, Bedford on the road again to take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies the first of 3 encounters they would have over the next four weeks, all close Bedford edging their opponents out 2-1 to reach the League Cup Final. Cambridge City at home once more this time taking on Essex side Harlow Town Ladies like Wymondham promoted to the Premier Division this season, having secured a top half finish proved a tough opponent Cambridge coming through however to reach the League Cup Final courtesy of a 3-1 victory.
Still at The County Ground, Letchworth home of the Hertfordshire FA, the 3G pitch new along with the barriers surrounding it and a redeveloped bar/cafeteria serving hot and col drinks. The sunny still beating down good job I brought my suncream still had the umbrella in the bag too mind the odd black cloud around but these wouldn’t yield anything.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Lauren Tomlinson, Ceri Flye, Becca Fay (C), Robyn Phillips, Sarah Mosley, Amy Reed, Anna Goggin, Hannah Bodily, Erin Davies & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Freya Standing, Laura Mills, Carla Penny & Megan Tonks.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Cambridge to get this season’s League Cup Final underway wearing white shirts, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Bedford lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and blue socks. The ball played long to the left Bedford goalkeeper Lauren Web out to kick the ball clear. Eden Kibron picking up the ball right side for Bedford driving forwards attempts to play Catalina Costas in as she makes a near post run into the box, Cambridge captain Becca Fay intercepting at the back.
Bedford with a fast start to the game getting the ball into the Cambridge half a throw won on the left headed on by Costas top of the area the ball finding its way through to Cambridge goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru. Bedford win it back in midfield play it wide down the right winning a corner.
GOAL! Bedford take an early lead in the game scoring inside the opening 3 minutes the delivery from the corner flicked on into the middle by Sophie Mulvihill into the six yard box, captain Michelle Byrne free sticking up a leg to bring the ball down well and smashes it into te back of the net 1-0.
Cambridge looking for a quick reply the ball at the feet of Erin Davies attacking left side her cross into the box cut out by Bedford captain, Jodie Molloy.
GOAL! No sooner have Bedford taken the lead then they counter to double thier advantage 2 goals t the good right at the start of the game 5 minutes played the ball put on through the middle into Mya Sidhu 30 yards out to the left flicking the ball over her shoulder inside to drop into the path of Kibron breaking into the box from the right, no need to check her stride meeting the ball she strikes it low and hard from inside the area to send it across the diving keeper into the bottom corner 2-0.
Eden Kibron with Bedford’s 2nd goal
A fantastic opening to the game from Bedford, Cambridge shell shocked 2 goals down inside the opening 5 minutes of the match. Bedford lively early on have come out of the blocks running quick to close the ball down, Kibron making several powerful runs forwards. On for Costas in attack moving wide her cross swung into the box claimed by Mhunduru. Cambridge with a free-kick wide on the right as Gemma Franklin fouls Amy Reed. The delivery in towards the top of the box met by a Cambridge head the ball headed on in towards goal lacking pace gathered by Webb.
Bedford’s turn to have a free-kick inside the Cambridge half, played forwards to drop into the box, Mhunduru coming forwards to claim it not put off by the onrushing Kibron. End the end as a shaken Cambridge look to get back into the game, Bedford winning it through Byrne in the middle as Anna Goggin looks to play the ball forwards. Bedford making ground on the left win getting a corner the delivery in close to goal, Mhunduru up for it is fouled. Kibron right the ball put inside to Costas making the near post run can’t quite get the ball under control as Mhunduru comes to collect.
Cambridge’s Ceri Flye with Bedford’s Mya Sidhu
Sarah Mosley with the ball 30 odd yards out allowed time to line up a shot her strike in looks to be heading over, dipping on Webb late back on her line the keeper producing a fantastic save to tip the ball up over her bar. Th corner played to towards the top of the area headed on wide across the goal. Bedford counter with pace and purpose Kibron forwards inside to Carissa Kaczorowski on for Costas, Robyn Phillips regaining possession for Cambridge. Sidhu with another flicked ball over the top of the Cambridge defence 25 out left to right, Costas the target this time can’t connect with the shot.
Goggin with a good run on the ball central for Cambridge getting forwards is tackled by Bedford’s Franklin. Bedford winning a corner right players come forwards the delivery into the six yard box the attempted clearance by Cambridge struck straight t Kibron 8 yards out closed down as she attempts to get a shot in the ball hustled out to the top of the area met by Bedford Jasmine Ajayi her shot in low has no power safely in Mhunduru’s gloves. Kaczorowski out wide right on the ball in the final third shoots Mhunduru diving in front of her goal to her left to push the ball away.
Bedford’s Jasmine Ajayi
Davies central looks to combine with Shannon Shaw in attack the attempted one two not coming off as Bedford’s Mulvihill charges the ball down. Bedford appealing for a penalty as Kibron bursts into the box left of goal put in by Sidhu, goes down under challenge but the appeals waved away. Mhunduru with another vital save to keep the scoreline down as Bedford press well getting forwards Costas into the box appeals for a push still managing to get something on the ball Cambridge’s keeper having gone to ground in front of her getting a arm up to pluck the ball down as it threatens to go over her inside the six yard box.
Ceri Flye bringing the ball on for Cambridge right side allowed to travel with it pace to get into the area Franklin sliding in to tackle win the ball for Bedford. Bedford make a change, Kaczorowski the player heading off on comes Sector Acolatse. Mosley peeling away to the left as Cambridge come forwards puts an early ball into the area Davies making the run near side, Webb coming to get to the ball and claim before she can reach it. Cambridge make a double switch bringing Mosley and Shaw off, Carla Penny and Megan Tonks on. Bedford bring on Amy Magnus in attack for Sidhu.
The game played at a furious pace, Bedford putting alot of effort in to keep the ball moving keep Cambridge from getting any momentum going forwards. The sun beating down is hot out there. Lauren Tomlinson defending for Cambridge at left back as Costas tries to get in behind n the right wing. Davies making some great runs forwards for Cambridge through the middle getting into the box as a cross is put in from the left sees it across her body getting a shot away before she can be challenged the ball swerving in the air it favours Webb in goal falling straight to her.
Davies combining with Penny in attack for Cambridge no final ball as Bedford defend the ball cleared straight to Hannah Bodily she strikes it from 25 yards out the shot wide. Cambridge gaining a little bit of the attack the ball forwards win a corner out on the right, the delivery in defended headed away Reed fouled as she looks to retrieve outside the box to the right of goal.
GOAL! Cambridge getting a goal back late in the first half scoring from the free-kick, Reed on the ball looks to play the ball in towards the near post little to aim at finds the target, Webb closed down by players from both sides going to claim the ball squeezing out of her gloves on behind her in front of goal, Tonks on the follow up for Cambridge getting her boot on the ball to send it on into the back of the net 2-1.
Bedford attack coming left the ball inside to Byrne in an advanced position a great touch to lift the ball over the top for Kibron bursting into the area, closing in on the byline the angle against her twists to get the ball in towards goal, landing awkwardly as she does so, too close to Mhunduru the goalkeeper claiming. Kibron up slowly didn’t look good but after treatment as allowed to come back on. Ajayi with a superb ball on for Acolatse through the middle, Mhunduru out to close he down the ball scrambled clear.
Into stoppage time the 1st half racing by Bedford bringing the ball on Acolatse lining up a shot outside the area right of the D, Flye getting a foot in to block.
Half-time Bedford Ladies 2-1 Cambridge City Ladies
A fast paced lively 1st half comes to a close, Bedford making a blistering start to the game getting themselves into a 2 goal lead within the opening 5 minutes, on the front foot for much of the half since, getting forwards well with intent as well as working hard to close the ball down. Cambridge stunned early on far from the start they wanted has taken them a while to get going as an attacking force slowly building momentum in the final 3rd, pulling a goal back late in the half to trail by just the one, Mhunduru in goal keeping the score down.
Bedford out early for the start of the 2nd half Kaczorowski back on the pitch in place of Acolatse Sidhu back on too. Bedford to get the game restarted an early clash of heads between Costas and Flye in the area, both players okay. Byrne winning the ball central for Bedford playing it forwards, Fay stopping it at the back for Cambridge.
Bedford have a throw on the right inside the Cambridge half the ball put inside to Costas helped in field to Sidhu 25 yards out, spots Kaczorowski making the run to her left into the box slides the pass on for her, Mhunduru out quickly to close the single and save at the attackers feet. Davies attempting to carry the ball forwards in attack for Cambridge supported by Bodily in the centre. Davies coming left the ball on for Tonks in attack, Mulvihill with the tackle the ball pushed out wide picked up by Penny her shot back in towards the near post tame gathered by Webb.
Erin Davies always looking to get into an attacking position for Cambridge City
Bedford come left the ball hit on the diagonal into the area Kibron lunging forwards getting a touch to send the ball goalwards under diving Mhunduru, to strike the base of the post, the flag up against her however. Davies and Bodily winning more of the ball in central areas now. Penny strong in possession on the left for Cambridge the pass forwards for Tonks holds it up trying to turn get in behind closed down by Molloy who tackles to regain the ball. Cambridge push on the right winning a free-kick put long to Penny top of the box left of goal brings the ball down well to turn into the shot lifting the ball over the crossbar. Freya Standing on for Cambridge in place of Flye.
Mulvihill tackling Davies as she brings the ball on a throw out left, Tomlinson with a long delivery to take sends it into the area cleared back to her, moves out towards the top of the area before striking from distance Webb back on her line making the save. Cambridge with a bit more of the ball, Bedford still looking a threat closing down and getting forwards. Priya Bhatti close on Penny to prevent the winger getting forwards. A corner on the right fro Cambridge in high central Webb punching the ball high in the air Franklin seeing it don sends clear. Goggin moving with the ball left pushes it into Penny looking for the return pass top of the area, Byrne charging the shot down.
GOAL! 20 minutes played in the 2nd half and Cambridge come back to level the scores at 2 a piece scoring from a throw wide on the right top of the area put into Davies closing in on the area puts the pass up towards Bodily positioned to corner catching it well lifts a shot in towards goal looping high over the keeper to fall into the bottom corner 2-2.
Hannah Bodily with Bedford’s Jasmine Ajayi
Cambridge make a change with Mosley back on for Goggin. Davies in to win the ball 20 yards out looks to play in Tonks but can’t get a pass into the box instead plays it out to Penny on the left she switches play putting a cross long to the far post for Standing running in can’t reach it out for the goalkick. Acolatse back on for Bedford attacking left is brought down by Phillips complaints from the Bedford bench about her being the last defender, but 30 yards out players were in a position to get back central. The free-kick a long way out the shot nevertheless taken on put over.
Tomlinson with the ball for Cambridge has space to run into runs unopposed 3 quarters of the pitch getting into the box left of goal sending a shot up over the bar. The game entering the final 15 minutes, tension out there from both sides Cambridge attacking, Bedford defending well especially on their flanks Franklin and Bhatti. Tonks comes off for Cambridge, Shaw rejoining the attack. Bedford with the ball left the cross in low cut out Fay near side her clearance straight to Byrne outside the box she puts it back in for Kibron lunging for it the ball held by Mhunduru.
Carla Penny coming forwards for Cambridge City
The play getting scrappy as both sides rush passes late on Penny fouled on the left the ball played down the line Mosley with the run looks to play the return ball to Penny, Mulvihill tackling for Bedford. Tomlinson off for Cambridge Flye back on. Shaw driving on through the middle for Cambridge, Mulvihill out o the area to slide in to win the challenge. Sidhu off for Bedford, Kaczorowski back on. The game looks to be heading to extra-time neither side getting a clinical chance late on Shaw winning Cambridge a late corner the ball in headed on towards goal Webb behind it.
Full time Bedford Ladies 2-2 Cambridge City Ladies
Nothing to separate the sides Cambridge coming back to level the scores 2nd half and send the final into extra-time, both sides putting alot into it especially Bedford some tired legs out there. An extra 30 minutes to play 2 15 minute halves for either side to find a winning goal the temperature remains high.
Extra-time
Cambridge to get extra-time underway, Bedford winning an early free-kick Molloy on it left side played on to Kibron she looks to put Sidhu away on the right side. Mhunduru out to her saves well, Sidhu after the loose ball falling awkwardly and she attempts to put it back in on the angle. After treatment is okay play resuming with a corner the ball in high claimed by Mhunduru.
Franklin does well in defence to get back on Standing as Davies moves over to the right with the ball. Sidhu left plays a low ball into the six yard box, Mhunduru out to claim before Kaczorowski can get there. Lauren Murray coming on for Bedford in place of Sidhu. Standing on the right gets the ball into the box for Davies near post looking to control then shoot is closed down by Franklin and Molloy both sliding in to block a corner conceded the ball in central Shaw goes for it can’t connect half cleared falls straight to Bodily 25 yards out a nick on her shot but Webb can make the save.
Kaczorowski striking a shot on the half volley right of the box the ball held by the keeper. Both sides working hard to stop the other cancelling each other out a 2nd ball thrown onto the pitch as Bedford look to get forwards, play stopped the referee having words with the Bedford bench. The fist half of extra-time comes to an end the sides still level.
Tomlinson returning to the field for Cambridge as Bedford get the 2nd period of extra-time started. Phillips defending for Cambridge as Kibron plays the ball on. Sian Beames on for Bedford played on by Kibron on the right crossing the ball early cut out Phillips. Murray bringing the ball on for Bedford support from Beames played out to Ajayi moving clear on the left her cross in met be Kibron central her touch too strong allowing the Cambridge defence to clear.
Play scrappy players giving away free-kicks tension showing passes going astray. Flye cautioned for a foul on Kaczorowski. Standing coming off Tonks back on. Beames conceding a corner on the right the delivery in central under the bar Webb punching the all landing amongst a crowded far post the ball lifted over the bar. Tomlinson sees a ball fired into her inside the box as Cambridge attack right she prods her shot wide of the near post.
Cambridge make one last push winning a corner the ball defended near post another corner won, this one flicked on by Phillips a shot blocked from close range at the far post. Reed comes on for Cambridge, Bedford defend. A late goal ruled out for offside. Cambridge come right a cross into the box put on to Tomlinson far post her shot striking the upright before being scrambled clear. The final whistle blows this season’s ERWFL Cup Final to be settled on penalties.
Penalties
No fan of a penalty shootout but a game has to be decided somehow. Five for each side if still not decided it then goes to sudden death.
Cambridge up to take the first penalty, Mosley placed the ball on the spot, scores sending a pacy ball wide to the right evading the diving keeper 1-0.
Magnus to take Bedford’s opening penalty Mhunduru saving superbly as she dives to her left to keep the low strike out 1-0.
Tee Mhunduru saving Bedford’s opening penalty
Shaw up next for Cambridge, a composed finish straight through the middle the keeper rooted to the spot 2-0.
Mulvihill up next for Bedford opts for power her rising shot cannoning down and in off the crossbar 2-1.
Tomlinson forwards to take Cambridge’s third penalty kick goes for placement sending the ball low racing into the bottom left corner to make it 3-1.
Jessica Bunnage on late on to take Bedford’s third penalty shoots to the right Mhunduru getting her fingertips to it but not enough to keep it out 3-2.
Tonks placing the ball on the spot for Cambridge’s fourth a cool finish finding the bottom corner to score 4-1.
Bedford have to score to keep themselves in the shootout, captain Byrne up to take the penalty, agony as she sends it wide of the post to see Cambridge roar in celebration and rush from the halfway line to Mhunduru winning the shootout 4-2 to win the ERWFL League Cup and do the double.
Joy for Cambridge heartbreak for Bedford a cruel finish to an entertaining final, both sides playing their part. Bedford racing out of the blocks taking a 2 goal lead early in the match putting Cambridge on the back foot, slowly they came back into the game pulling it back to 2-1 before half-time scoring the leveller in the 2nd half the game getting tense late on scrappy neither side on top chances for both. Extra-time unable to separate them.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Another competitive final with a few contenders from both sides. Eden Kibron setting the tone early on for Bedford helping them get off to a fantastic start. At the back Gemma Franklin was strong nothing much getting past her. For Cambridge City, Erin Davies making some positive forward runs looking to get on in attack. Carla Penny making a huge impact coming on, Hannah Bodily supporting Davies playing well too. The award though goes to Cambridge City goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru pulling off some vital saves as Bedford started strong commanding her area and the all important save in the penalty shootout.
Cambridge City Ladies 2018/19 ERWFL League Cup winners
Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Plate Final and on the double.
Another highly entertaining match, great to see to competitive finals today a fantastic advert for the ERWFL. An enjoyable but tiring day, thanks to everyone for their help today. Alot of kind comments too much appreciated, will be tired once the dust has settled on another busy Sunday not many to go now however the season soon coming to an end.
Semi-final weekend for the ERWFL League Cup down t the last 4 sides vying for a place in the final on Sunday 12th May. Cambridge City Ladies looking to make it a league and cup double the Premier Division Champions were at home to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies. Goals from top scorer Erin Davies, Bronte Rapley plus and own goal sealing a 3-1 victory for Cambridge City to see them into their 2nd ERWFL League Cup final in 3 seasons. Harlow not happy with some referring decisions scoring through Hannah Smith her debut goal for the 1st team after impressing and scoring plenty of goals for their Development side this season.
Injuries and player unavailability affecting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies towards the end of the season, despite that have done well to reach the last 4 of the League Cup, drawn at home to play Bedford Ladies. The game officiated by Norwegian referees guests of Cambridgeshire FA this week. A close game in the finish with the game with goals from Amy Magnus and Jasmine Ajayi seeing Bedford through the the final courtesy of a 2-1 victory.
ERWFL League Plate
Also a semi-final played too this Sunday in the ERWFL’s League Plate competition. Stevenage Ladies Reserves at home taking on Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side taking an 18th minute lead a corner returned into the area met by Katie Seagrave her header beating the keeper from close range to make it 1-0. Stevenage quick to reply level just 4 minutes later breaking with Histon appealing for a foul up the other end, Sherrie Evans getting the goal to make it 1-1. All square the game remained heading into extra-time. Histon winning the game in the 1st period of extra play, Kaya Haq scoring a superb goal from a 25 yard free kick sending a curled ball high to drop into the back of the net to send Histon into the League Plate final. Their opponents with be either Newmarket Town Ladies or Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who met in the league this Sunday setting their semi-final up nicely.
ERWFL Premier Division
Royston Town Ladies returned to winning ways this Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division as they look to secure the runners-up spot in the league. The 2nd placed side at home to Haringey Borough Women. Royston taking the lead from the penalty spot Jo Rutherford making it 1-0, added a 2nd to double the lead with Eva Ramsey scoring from out wide to make it 3-0 Haringey puling a goal back before the break their keeper making some important saves to limit Royston to 3 goals. Francesca Smithers returning to action for Royston on target to bring up their 4th goal, Rutherford lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick to bring up her 19th goal of the season and see Royston win the game 5-1.
Royston Town Ladies, Jo Rutherford
A home win too for Colney Heath Ladies against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday, goals from Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 victory the 3 points lifting Colney Heath over the Essex side into 8th position in the Premier Division.
ERWFL Division One
With ERWFL Division One leaders St Ives Town Ladies not in action this weekend it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to close the gap down to just 3 points in preparation for the two sides meeting this coming Sunday. A tough local derby this weekend away to fellow Essex side Hutton Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea in good form however unlucky in 13 games in the league a single goal winning a tough battle between the sides Sophie Dowman’s 14th goal of the season extending the run to 14. A trip to St Ives now where they will be looking to end the league leaders unbeaten record.
2-2 when the sides last met in the league Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in Division One were away 5th placed Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Goals from Rosy Wodhams and Becky Scola seeing Hoddesdon into a 2-1 lead with 25 minutes left Newmarket then reduced 10 with goalkeeper Dominika Szary sent off being adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area. Yasmin Woodfield donning the keepers gloves Newmarket having scored through Annabel Cuthbert kept battling getting themselves back on level terms Cuthbert with her 10th goal of the season, the visitors dramatically winning the game with seconds left on the clock Cuthbert lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick. The two sides meeting at Newmarket this coming Sunday in the League Plate semi-finals haven’t yet seen both this season and this is where I shall be.
A big win for King’s Lynn Town Ladies at home this Sunday as they continue to build momentum going into the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final in just a fortnights time. This Sunday they were playing at The Walks home of King’s Lynn Town FC, taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. A strong first half performance seeing King’s Lynn leading 7-0 with hat-tricks for both Oksana Imanalijeva and Tiffany Forshaw along with a goal for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. A further two goals added in the 2nd half with Becky Russell scoring and Imanalijeva getting a 4th to her name. The win taking King’s Lynn into 7th and in a great position to challenge for a top half finish.
Lawford Ladies were at home this Sunday in ERWFL Division One taking on bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts winning the game 3-1 thanks to goals from Stacey Teager, Jodie Sharp and a 1st of the season for Claire Gauntlett. Again like King’s Lynn well placed to push on up the table in their final 4 matches. Poppy Kelly scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
The ERWFL was again hit by the weather games falling foul of water logged pitches in both the Premier Division & Division One. Two games in the Premier Division although one of those was abandoned due to a head injury. Bedford Ladies were leading 2-1 away to Haringey Borough when striker Julia Carruthers suffered the injury and was admitted to hospital has since thankfully been given the all clear, the time of abandonment differing between clubs it has been listed as A-A on the full-time website will update if that changes.
One game going the distance then Wymondham Town Ladies fifth in the table at home to fellow promoted side Harlow Town Ladies. The Norfolk side taking a 10th minute lead with striker Hannah Waters strong on the ball sending the ball into the back of the net to open the scoring. The Essex side responding well getting back level on the half hour then going on to take the lead, Chelsea Clarke lobbing the keeper from distance to level the scores back up late in the first half to see it all square at 2-2. Harlow getting the better of the 2nd half scoring twice more to come to make the long journey home with the 3 points the 4-2 victory seeing them climb into the top half of the table. Poppy Binding scoring twice for Harlow now has 13 for the season with Tayla Handscombe also on target along with a 1st goal for the season for Ellie Wallace. Not all bad for Wymondham either as they actually climb a place up to 4th now awarded the home win against Dunstable Ladies back in December.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding tie left to be played in the ERWFL Cup 3rd Round, Division One side Lawford Ladies making the trip to Hertfordshire to player Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies. A first half brace for Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 advantage for Colney Heath. A 3rd goal securing the win for the Premier Division side in the 2nd half Charlene Moreton scoring to send Colney Heath through the quarter finals of the competition.
Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton
ERWFL Division One
A switch to 3G saw one game beat the weather in ERWFL Division One on Sunday, King’s Lynn Town Ladies finally back in league action playing host to new league leaders St Ives Town Ladies. Unbeaten in the league and knowing 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies game had been called off the visitors from Cambridgeshire had an opportunity to open a 4 point lead up at the top of the table. An own goal giving St Ives an early lead, Kira Markwell making a great save to deny King’s Lynn an equaliser as they grew into the game. St Ives defending well doubled their lead through top scorer Tierney Coulson. 2-0 to St Ives at half-time. A strong start to the 2nd half from King’s Lynn it was St Ives who were to extend their lead on the hour Coulson lobbing the keeper for her 2nd of the game and 21st goal of the season to make it 3-0. Hannah Seymour-Shove extending St Ives lead 5 minutes later. 4-0 the final score harsh on King’s Lynn who although not finding the break through with a goal themselves made St Ives work for the win.
