Category Archives: FAWNL Cup

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Yeovil Town Women

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 A trip down to Letchworth this Sunday for a match form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women taking on Yeovil Town Women from the Southern Premier Division.

  The Determining Round now a traditional part of the FAWNL calendar the sides from all six divisions drawn against each other with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup itself the losing sides entering the Plate competition. 

  The draw throwing up many intriguing ties right across the country, can be hard to chose one but settled on this one early on. 

  Stevenage have established themselves within the FAWNL, now linking up with the Stevenage FC Foundation the club has changed name from Stevenage Ladies to Stevenage FC Women to reflect the growing trend within the sport. An large influx of new signings for both the 1st and Development team as the club looks to push on. Amongst the newcomers joining are Lisa Nixon from Luton Town Ladies and striker Jenny Nagle from AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A goal conceded in the 88th minute last Sunday saw Stevenage lose their opening day fixture 2-1 to Actonians Ladies.

 A new beginning to of sorts for Yeovil Town too, albeit one they would have preferred to be somewhere else. One of the founding members of an all professional FAWSL the club struggled to find investment and that brought difficulties that impacted upon their season finishing bottom. An application to join the Championship turned down by the FA the club were relegated back to the FAWNL. Since then investment has come in with Adam Murry becoming the clubs new owner. Re-branded too as Yeovil Town Women. A brighter outlook awaits a positive future for a club that has always been a committed force to women’s football in the South West. Always enjoyed my trips down to Somerset to watch them in my FAWSL supporting days. The squad has seen a few departures but experience has been added with the likes of Dan Carlton and Sarah Wiltshire who returns to Yeovil after playing for Tottenham Hotspur Women. Top the Southern Premier Division after the opening fixtures last Sunday winning 9-0 away to the newly created Hounslow Women.

  The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, the home of the Hertfordshire FA, Stevenage’s 1st team will be playing their home matches there this season. The ground undergoing development, first off a brand new 3G playing surface and surround. Alot of rubber laid in it’s construction. A new bar and clubhouse layout too with plenty of potential for more improvements to come. A blisteringly hot August bank Holiday Sunday, 30 plus degrees a blue sky the sun bright, the 3G pitch only adding to the temperature. I’m wearing shorts and I only do that if I absolutely have too! Enjoying it while it lasts however. 

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Kristi Burling, Leah Dunnage, Dominique Godbeer, Amy Notschild, Nicole Dunbar, Cara Breckenridge, Lisa Dixon, Amy Makewell (C), Louise Godden & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Te’a Oldroyd, Hayley Wood-Thompson & Mickie Palfreman.

Yeovil Town Women starting XI – Beth Howard, Harriet Lambe, Rebecca Halford, Thierry-Jo Gauvain, Jodie Chubb, Annie Heatherson (C), Dan Carlton, Kelly Aldridge, Sarah Wiltshire, Megan Wood & Meesha Dudley-Jones. Subs – Elena Pearce, Charlotte Buxton, Alexis Bussell, Maya Ridge & Rosie Kirby.

  It’s Yeovil wearing an all yellow away kit to get the match underway kicking off 1st half. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing white and pale red vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. The hosts with a few players unavailable, 5 new signings in today’s squad with, Lisa Nixon, Nicole Dunbar, Leah Dunnage and Louise Godden all starting, Mickie Palfremian on the bench. Stevenage press straight away forcing Yeovil to play the ball back to their defence, played forwards into Yeovil captain Annie Heatherson on halfway she plays a superb long pass out to Sarah Wiltshire over on the left she sends it on through the middle looking to pick out Kelly Aldridge making a run, Hannah Vandersluis with a good starting position top of her area able to gather the ball first.

   Nixon gets hold of the ball in midfield for Stevenage picks out Dunnage bursting on down the left win looks to take the ball infield his clipped and brought down by Yeovil full back Rebecca Halford  a free-kick awarded just outside the area despite her protests. Nixon over it players forwards she squares it towards Godden in a central position she opens up her body attempting to slip it on for Dunnage, Heatherson having read the move tracking Dunnage back on her to put in the tackle regain possession outside the six yard box.

  Yeovil counter attack rapidly the ball taken out wide right a cross flung into the area headed out for a throw. Dan Carlton picks the ball up from the throw right travels infield 30 yards out a one two made with Heatherson, Carlton strikes the ball runs wide of the Stevenage goal. Yeovil have quickly settled winning the ball high play turned around quickly a pass put into the feet of Megan Wood right of goal strikes a low shot in towards goal Vandersluis diving is beaten the ball cannoning off the base of the post. 

Yeovil’s Rebecca Halford with Stevenage’s Louise Godden

  Dunnage with a heavy impact with the surface as she brings the ball out for defence allows Yeovil in behind, Meesha Dudley-Jones sending a high cross into the area Vandersluis making a confident claim. Yeovil’s attacking players harassing the Stevenage defence keep the pressure on. Space opens up on the right for full back Halford to run into given the ball cuts it into Aldridge top of the box her touch taking the ball on into the area ,Dominique Godbeer stays on her shoulder to clear for Stevenage.

  Twisting and turning on the ball outside the area left of goal Wiltshire sets herself to shoot, Godbeer backing off gives herself time to get into position to block the effort.  The danger not cleared a 2nd shot made left of the D driven in low Vandersluis down low to her right saves pushing the ball behind for a corner. A good delivery from the left in high Aldridge up inside the box towards the back post heading the ball into the ground goes after the loose ball herself a stab with her boot deflecting it goalwards rising a smart save from Vandersluis. 

Kelly Aldridge making the tackle

 Is very hot out there the sun beating down. Yeovil despite that are looking sharp at the start of the game continue to attack another corner won left swept into the area falling invitingly inside the six yard box a Stevenage boot making vital contact to launch clear. Aldridge receiving the ball central 25 yards out from goal attempt to play Wiltshire in behind cutting in from the left, Vandersluis sliding in sending up a cloud of rubber balls doing enough to put the attacker off.

 Stevenage attacks rare Nicole Emmings leading the line having very little to feed on, Godden getting up in support when she can, an attack broken up the ball cleared up to Heatherson sees Dudley-Jones moving away into space on the right the pass on the money taken in her stride Dudley-Jones bares down on goal shooting low near post saved by Vandersluis.

    Godden a willing runner given half a chance for Stevenage, captain Amy Makewell playing the ball on through the middle she goes after it, Jodie Chubb dealing with the threat comfortably for Yeovil in the centre of defence playing it back to goalkeeper Beth Howard, Godden stays alert the kick out striking her inside the six yard box could have gone anywhere, the rebound however favouring Howard coming straight back at her to get hold of. 

Stevenage’s Lisa Nixon

 Harriet Lambe at left back for Yeovil plays the ball up field Wiltshire with support for Dudley-Jones left side outside the box, lays the ball back to Dudley-Jones hits it well enough low in towards goal straight at Vandersluis however. 20 minutes played. Yeovil are getting closer Wiltshire has the ball glued to her feet as she jinks and twists avoiding challenges on the left outside the box eventually making room for a shot her looping ball striking the crossbar. 

  GOAL! The pressure Yeovil have applied eventually tells as they open the scoring. Aldridge linking up with Wiltshire on the left in attack combination play seeing the ball fired into the area blocked Aldridge back to Wiltshire she squares it to Heatherson central her shot flying in past the diving keeper 0-1.

Yeovil Town Women captain, Annie Heatherson with the opening goal

  Time for drinks, a break in play called. Stevenage make a change, Hayley Wood-Thompson on for Dunnage. Stevenage look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball played into the left channel, Godden after it, Thierry-Jo Gauvain going back with her tackling and winning the ball in the corner. Stevenage keep the ball alive in the final third players up a set-piece lifted into the area the ball knocked down to the top of the area, Nixon top of the D gets her foot up over the top of the ball to strike a shot back in Chubb blocking for Yeovil.

   Wiltshire lines up a shot from distance the strike tipped up over the bar by Vandersluis. A corner on the left defended by Dunnage at the near post. Stevenage can’t break Heatherson supported by Carlton winning the midfield battle. Wiltshire drifting into a central position plays a great ball on for Dudley-Jones away on the left she lifts a cross into the far post, Wood getting a toe on it lifts it over, the flag up against her. 

Yeovil Town Women’s Thierry-Jo Gauvain

  Makewell looks to play Godden away down the left in attack for Stevenage Gauvain pacey back to defend against her sets up the counter attack the ball through the middle into the feet of Wiltshire outside the area left side no power behind the shot comfortably caught by Vandersluis. Wood away right side into the box under challenge gets a shot away saved Aldridge central attempts to score, a glove from the keeper puts it wide for a corner. Stevenage struggle to clear their lies Yeovil all over them Carlton gets a shot away from distance lacks power Vandersluis down to gather. The Stevenage keeper very busy making another double save as the ball is struck at close range. 

 GOAL! Yeovil have a 2nd goal and it’s a great move from back to front, Heatherson on the ball deep her pass out long for Wiltshire left her diagonal ball sending Dudley-Jones through on goal, central strikes it early the shot driven n past the diving goalkeeper 0-2.

  GOAL! Two quickly becomes three! Yeovil awarded a penalty as Aldridge pressing into the area left of goal is upended. Wiltshire placing the ball on the spot a well taken penalty opening up her body to lift the ball wide of the keeper to score 0-3. 

Sarah Wiltshire scoring from the penalty spot.

  A hammer blow for Stevenage they get a free-kick up the other end wide left as Burling breaks forwards trying to link with Godden. Nixon to play the ball into the top of the area, Burling attempting to flick on can’t connect as Yeovil see it safely into the gloves of their keeper. Wiltshire remains a threat out wide or cutting inside no one can stay with her, free in behind Vandersluis takes a risk sliding in well outside her box the ball spinning in behind Wiltshire keeps her footing after it the angle against her as she is closed down fires her shot across the empty goal. 

  Burling with another foray forwards for Stevenage cuts inside the ball defended loose Nixon latches onto it 30 yards out sends a high ball in towards goal, Howard needing to keep an eye on it back on her line sees it over. Up the other end Dudley-Jones stealing the ball off the defence sees a shot whip up over the bar. Wood right drives on with the ball for Yeovil squares it into Aldridge top corner of the area runs on  past her for Dudley-Jones behind she curls a shot past the near post.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-3 Yeovil Town Women

  A dominant first half display from Yeovil sees them leading Stevenage 3-0 at the break. Having created a host of chances eventually opened the scoring midway through the first half. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of fantastic saves to keep her side in in 2 quick fire goals late in the half putting Yeovil in the driving seat. Have moved the ball well and runs off it have been superb through the half despite the heat out there in reply thier defence has been little troubled. 

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

  Stevenage making a double change at the start of the 2nd half, Mickie Palfreman on for Notschild in defence and a change of goalkeeper too as Vandersluis is replaced by Te’a Oldroyd, a baseball cap adorning her head as the high sun faces her goal 2nd half. A switch of sides for me too 2nd half need some shade myself. Alot for Stevenage to do if they are to try and get something from the game. The hosts kicking off the 2nd period. Yeovil however are straight into the attack the ball won played wide to Wiltshire left a shot from distance dropping wide across goal. Palfremian in to clear the ball in the heart of defence as another cross is whipped in close to goal form the left.

Stevenage’s Mickie Palfreman

 GOAL! Just what Stevenage would have wanted to avoid as they conceded a fourth goal right at the start of the 2nd half. Caught in possession at the back in front of the D, Dudley-Jones nicks the ball drives on into the box and sends her shot in under the newly arrived keeper 0-4.

  Yeovil starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st get the ball forwards at will, Wiltshire with a diagonal ball left side on for Heatherson moving forwards she crosses into the six yard box Aldridge closing in forcing a save from Oldroyd at pointblank range. Stevenage attempt to counter Breckenridge on for Makewell central on for Emmings in attack, Godden supplying a good run to her left the pass towards her Godden takes it deep before crossing disappointingly into the side netting. A great first touch from Palfreman at the back for Stevenage looks to have put Godden through in behind on the left only for her attack to be thwarted by a raised flag.

   Palfreman making an impact at the back for Stevenage winning challenges sends the ball up field Godden looking to get after it, Gauvain keeping with her defending for Yeovil in the final third. The visitors break quickly as they have all game Dudley-Jones away on the right, whips a vicious cross in across goal Wiltshire close in attacking the far post doesn’t get the contact she wants heavy allows the Stevenage defence to clear. Halford bursting into space on the right side as Aldridge spots her run the cross delivered near post Wiltshire advanced again to attack it under challenge fires wide.

Yeovil attack shows no relenting Dudley-Jones a threat on the right sending a ball in across the six yard box Aldridge throwing a leg at it can’t connect. Wiltshire is everywhere in attack finding herself free in a central position top of the area hits a rising ball in towards goal, a top class save from Oldroyd gloves it up over the bar. 

  GOAL! From the resulting corner Yeovil extend their lead the ball fired in fast near post deflected down into the ground falls to the feet of Dudley-Jones to strike hard from six yards out through feet giving the keeper no chance and complete her hat-trick 0-5.

A hat-trick for Yeovil Town Women’s Meesha Dudley-Jones

   Has been a frustrating afternoon for Emmings in attack for Stevenage the ball played forwards to the right the striker makes a determined run to get forwards flashing a cross from deep across the face of goal, Halford tracking back with Godden swinging a foot to clear the ball before it can be attacked the corner conceded. The ball in a great one falling into the six yard box Yeovil fail to clear an instinctive header from Emmings close in only succeeds in putting it straight into Howard’s gloves.

Nicole Emmings forcing her way forwards for Stevenage

  Oldroyd with another brilliant save as Yeovil mount an attack on the left Wood crossing square to Aldridge who tees up Heatherson to shoot from 25 yards out the ball in low Oldroyd down t stop it. Yeovil make their first change of the match with Aldridge coming off to be replace by Maya Ridge.

  A free-kick inside the Stevenage half for Yeovil presents a further opportunity to attack the box Carlton on the ball lifting it in towards the top of the area, Wiltshire ghosting in between defenders getting a touch to set it up and shoot across the keeper and score, Stevenage immediately appealing for handball! Nothing given by the officials, a moments hesitation between her first and second touches Wiltshire sportingly admits to handling the ball, an action to be applauded and play resumes with a goal kick.

 GOAL! That said a moment later Wilshire is celebrating a goal scored beautifully with her feet, no question about it a fantastic strike as she gets onto the ball wide left isn’t closed down on the angle strikes it well across the keeper from distance and into the top corner 0-6.

  Wiltshire continues to be a threat played in on goal closing down the keeper left side she manages to avoid her diving challenge in behind, Burling gets back on her to make the tackle before she can craft a shot. Wood has support from Halford getting in the clear right side sends in a cross near post Wiltshire close in smashes a rising shot against the bar as Oldroyd leaps grounded the keeper recovers fantastically getting in the way to save as Dudley-Jones coming in far side smashes the ball against her.

Rebecca Halford looking for options for Yeovil Town Women

  Another drinks break called, an injury to Godbeer is unable to continue leaving Stevenage with just 10 on the field. Yeovil make a change Wiltshire coming off Alexis Bussell. 20 minutes left to play. Play resumes Dudley-Jones is put away right side shooting sees her attempt bounce wide across goal.

  GOAL! Halford bringing the ball on down the right miscues her forwards ball intended for Wood down the line instead goes central into Carlton she reacts well aware of Wood’s run flicks the ball out to her charging into the box Wood takes a touch a smashes it over the keeper into the top corner 0-7.

 Yeovil make their final change with Rosie Kirby coming on to replace Halford at right back. Has all been Yeovil have maintained high energy levels despite the heat their younger players encouraged well by the more experienced. Into the final 6 minutes of the game Stevenage are tired been a tough afternoon. Dudley-Jones has pace to burn in behind blasts another effort wide across goal. Carlton with a break forwards with the ball encouraged to go on attempts to lob the keeper her effort falling wide of goal. 

Yeovil Town Women midfielder, Dan Carlton

  Breckenridge back in defence now blocking at the near post as Wood wide left drives a low cross into the box. Bussell beating the offside trap in the closing moments played in by Carlton in central plays her strike wide of goal. The final whistle blowing soon after and everyone can retreat to the shade.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 0-7 Yeovil Town Women

  A comprehensive result for Yeovil Town Women as they dominated from start to finish to beat Stevenage 7-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. often a strange game as no one actually exits at this point just know what trophy you will be fighting for. That said a huge confidence boost for Yeovil nevertheless 16 goals scored in two matches. A good performance in soaring temperatures, well worked goals further chances created. Great movement on and off the ball bodes well going into the season. On the flip side a day to forget for Stevenage never got going shaky at the back little to offer in attack must go down as a bad day at the office and galvanise them going forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as you might expect today’s contenders are all from Yeovil. I thought Kelly Aldridge was superb and the driving force early on that set the tome for the visitors with some great attacking runs and interplay. Sarah Wiltshire could have had 5 or 6 goals today created numerous opportunities and she’s a nightmare for defenders to track as she drifts in almost unnoticed at times. Great close control with the ball always looking for an opening. Just edging it though is Meesha Dudley-Jones her movement up front and coming in from the right just as superb netting a hat-trick and like Wiltshire should have had more.

  I’m not a hot weather person but I’m not going to knock it, an enjoyable trip to Letchworth today, the Determining Round is always an intriguing fixture in the football calendar. My thanks to both sides with their help today.  

The Round-Up – FAWNL 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th April

FAWNL Cup

 This Sunday saw the Final of the FAWNL Cup taking place at Burton Albion FC’s Pirelli Stadium. The two sides contesting it looking to complete the double both league champions with Crawley Wasps Ladies winners of the South East Division One title taking on Blackburn Rovers Ladies once again the Champions of the FAWNL Northern Premier Division. Both losing just one league game all season Crawley Wasps were without centre backs Darcey James and Ellie Russell along with forward Sian Heather. 

  Blackburn taking an early lead Saffron Jordan scoring from close range notching up her 100th goal for the club in the process. Blackburn applying more pressure in the 1st half Crawley Wasps keeping them out the lead 1-0 at the break. Into the 2nd half and once again it was n early break though for Blackburn, Lynda Shephard playing Natasha Flint in the attacker lobbing the keeper to double the lead in the 52nd minute. Few chances for Crawley Wasps the game made secure in the final 10 minutes with Jordan scoring her 2nd of the match to see Blackburn win the game 3-0 and lift the trophy.

2018/19 FAWNL Cup winners, Blackburn Rovers Ladies (picture Blackburn Rovers Ladies)

Congratulations to Blackburn Rovers Ladies on winning the FAWNL Cup. Their next game will be the FAWNL Play off game taking on Southern Premier Division Champions, Coventry United Ladies the game to be played on Saturday 18th May at Bradford City FC’s Valley Parade Stadium the kick-off 3pm.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

The penultimate weekend of fixtures in the FAWNL and following their 3-2 midweek win away to Oxford United Women, Cardiff City Ladies go the points they needed on Sunday to secure runners-up spot in the Southern Premier Division. Were on the road again travelling the Stadium MK to play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The hosts holding the advantage going into half-time however Charley Clarke scoring from a corner with half an hour played to see Milton Keynes Dons leading 1-0. Cardiff soon back on level terms at the start of the 2nd half with Nadia Lawrence scoring 2 minutes after the restart to make it 1-1. Cardiff going on to score what would prove to be the winning goal past the hour with Jordan Guard finding the back of the net to make it 2-1.

  Chichester City Ladies have secured a top 3 finish in the Southern Premier Division having been in the top two for much of the season leading for a good period, Cardiff coming on strong late on to overhaul them. Third assured at home as they took on QPR Women. Natasha Stephens getting Chichester off to a perfect start tapping in from a corner kick inside the opening minute. Lauren Cheshire doubling the hosts lead with the game approaching the half hour scoring direct from a corner. A 3rd goal seeing Chichester into a 3-0 lead before half-time Stephens brought down inside the box Tammy Waine stepping up to score from the spot and claim her first goal of the season. Late drama as goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear was sent off for Chichester handling the ball outside the area, Waine donning the gloves the clean sheet remaining in tact.

  Oxford United Women bouncing back from their midweek defeat having won the Oxfordshire Women’s County Cup last Sunday made the trip down to the south coast to play Portsmouth FC Women. Georgia Timms putting the visitors 1-0 up in the 29th minute. Top scorer Emily Allen racing in to score her 18th goal of the season in first half stoppage time to see Oxford into a 2 goal lead, keeping Portsmouth out at the other end in the 2nd period to claim the 3 points and a 4th placed finish in the league.

  Fifth placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies were hosting league champions, Coventry United Ladies. The visitors taking the lead on the half hour with Amber Hughes on target to make it 1-0. Plymouth awarded a penalty on the stroke of half-time going in level with captain Katie Middleton making it 1-1 from the spot. Coventry back in the lead early in the 2nd period with Amy Wathan scoring her 23rd goal of the campaign. Hughes notching up her 2nd of the game midway through the 2nd period to see Coventry take a 3-1 lead. Into the final 15 minutes Plymouth pulling it back to 3-2 thanks to a goal form Helen Bleazard. No come back however as Rosie McDonnell struck for Coventry just 4 minutes later to see the 2 goal cushion restored, Hughes completing her hat-trick in stoppage time to bring up her 20th goal of the season as seal a 5-2 win for Coventry.

  That defeat for Plymouth sees them drop to 6th overhauled by Watford FC Ladies who secured the 3 points at home to bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. The game goalless at the break it was Basildon who drew first blood taking the lead early in the 2nd half. Sophie Kelly scoring form distance from a free-kick in the 52nd minute. The game closing in on the final 20 minutes Watford bringing on Alysha Stojko-Down made an instant impact scoring from inside the box to make it 1-1.2 minutes later Watford had the lead Leanne Bell in the right place to get hold of the ball and make it 2-1. The 3 points secured in the 78th minute with Adekite Fatuga-Dada on target to score Watford’s 3rd goal.

FAWNL South East Division One

The top two spots in FAWNL South East Division One secured already the two promoted sides enjoying fantastic season’s Crawley Wasps winning the title, Billericay Town Ladies sealing runners-up spot it remains very tight in the positions below with Actonians Ladies in 3rd just a point clear of 4th and 5th with one game each left to play. Actonians making the trip to Essex this Sunday to play Billericay. A first half brace for Mariko Eagles along with a goal in the 50th minute seeing the visitors on target for 3 goals. Not enough however to take anything from the game as Billericay found the back of the net for twice as many up the other end. Zoe Rushen scoring a hat-trick the clubs leading goal scorer taking her tally to 31 goals for the season. Goals too for Jay Blackie her 15th of the season, Danica Dougal and Freya Fuller making her debut for the 1st team.

Enfield Town Ladies move above Leyton Orient WFC into 4th spot with a better goal difference after they won away from home on Sunday against Cambridge United WFC. Nuala McKevitt with the only goal in the 1st period seeing Enfield take the lead in the 35th minute. Claire Ford making it 2-0 to Enfield early in the 2nd half. The 3 points make secure in the final 5 minutes with Molly Peters on target for her 15th goal of the season to make it 3-0.

   Stevenage Ladies secured their FAWNL status for a 4th season on Sunday winning at home to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. The host opening the scoring on 28 minutes Ashleigh Deacon scoring to put Stevenage into the lead. Just 2 minutes later the hosts were 2 nil ahead Deacon through on goal setting up Amy Makewell to score. A 3rd goal coming late in the first half with Makewell setting up Deacon this time one one on one with the keeper to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 up at half-time Norwich threatened a late 2nd half comeback Aimee Durrant pulling a goal back with 15 minutes left to play. Natasha Snelling getting it back to 3-2 inside the final 5 minutes. Stevenage holding on to win the 3 points.

   Luton Town Ladies are relegated from the FAWNL having battled with a young squad and multiple injuries throughout the season a difficult campaign after being in the top 4 on a regular basis in recent seasons. Travelled up to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Women and were in a good position going into the half-time interval leading the game 2-0. Remi Bains charging down the ball seeing it rebound off her into the back of the net t make it 1-0. Jess McKay quickly bringing up a 2nd. Ipswich making a triple change at half-time pulling it back to 2-1 on the hour from a corner Natasha Thomas scoring with an over head kick. Paige Wakefield with a stunning goal to level the scores just 4 minutes later. A goalmouth scramble seeing Ipswich take the lead in the 73rd minute Thomas on the end of it for her 2nd of the game completing a hat-trick just 2 minutes later to make it 4-2 to the hosts. 5 minutes left on the clock Ipswich adding a 5th goal with Charlotte Kellett scoring her 1st senior goal for the club.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 24/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 24th February

Perfect weather for the final weekend of February last year we had the Beast from the East this time around it was positively tropical in comparison with bright sunshine and warm temperatures far from the expected for this time of year and no one was complaining.

  Sad news too with many clubs up and down the country pausing before their matches in memory of Jordan Dawes who passed away after losing her brief battle with liver cancer. The 18-year-old goalkeeper life all too short, touched many in that time, a great smile, a talented goalkeeper whose previous clubs include Charlton Athletic Women and Kent United. A life taken too soon rest in peace Jordan. 

A tribute picture for Jordan Dawes produced by Kent Football United

FAWNL Cup

  Plenty of action across all leagues this Sunday, we begin the action in the FAWNL. One remaining game to be played in the last 8 of the FAWNL Cup. Crawley Wasps Ladies still with a 100% league record leading the way in South East Division One travelling once again to play Coventry United Ladies, themselves with an unbeaten record laying 2nd in the Southern Premier Division. The two sides having met already one this season at the start of 2019 in the FA Women’s Cup, Crawley Wasps winning the game 2-1 to knock their higher league opponents out of the competition.

   This Sunday’s quarter final tie no less competitive the dead lock broken with 37 minutes on the clock Kemina Webber who had already seen an effort ruled off for offside fed the ball inside the box and slotting home to make it 1-0. That the advantage for Crawley at the break. Coventry pushing for a reply early in the 2nd half, Beth Merrick getting the equaliser with a looping header back across the face of goal to make it 1-1 with nearly an hour played. Merrick coming close with a strike over the bar moments later. Crawley winning a corner up the other end Naomi Cole sending the ball long to the far post Darcey James with the header to send the ball back in and restore the visitors lead. Defending it was a repeat of the FA Cup game with Crawley winning 2-1 to reach the last 4 and will be at home to Bolton Wanderers Ladies this coming Sunday a place in the final for the winners.

FAWNL Plate

Like the FAWNL Cup their was one outstanding quarter final tie left in the Plate competition with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies at home taking on South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into the lead midway through the 1st half. The Southern Premier Division side getting themselves back on level terms before the break with Leanna Doyle putting Leah Cudone through on goal to make it 1-1. Both sides with chances 2nd half Keynsham rattling the woodwork, the game entering the final 20 minutes the visitors were awarded a free-kick 20 yards out scored to retake the lead. The clock rapidly running down Milton Keynes levelled the scores at the death to force the game into extra-time Amy Gooderham with the goal. The hosts coming close to winning the game in the extra period it remained 2-2 to head into a penalty shootout. 3-3 after the regulation 5 into sudden death, Emma Kirby saving for Milton Keynes. Alice Hughes scored to send them through 5-4. Milton Keynes at home to Liverpool Feds Women in the semi-finals this coming Sunday.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Six league wins in a row now for Cardiff City Ladies in the Southern Premier Division as the 3rd placed side won at home this Sunday in the process seeing league leaders Chichester City Ladies suffer back to back defeats. The damage done in the opening half hour the Welsh side getting themselves into a 3-0 lead with Emma Jones scoring a hat-trick. Her 1st on 6 minutes the 2nd quickly followed by the 3rd midway through the 1st half. Jess Lewry pulling it back to 3-1 late in the 1st half. That was how the scores remained going into the final 5 minutes, a 30 yard strike from Chloe Jones securing the win for Cardiff, despite Cherelle Khassel getting a goal for Chichester in the 88th minute. A 4-2 win for Cardiff in 3rd position leading the chasing pack close the gap to Chichester to 5 points with two games in hand.

   Is a 3 way tie of 28 points in 3rd, 4th & 5th in the Southern Premier Division table with Oxford United Women another form side in 4th position 5 wins in a row in the league themselves now unbeaten in 7 to climb the table. Were at home to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, another close game a single goal winning the game coming from Florence Fyfe her 9th goal of the season seeing her become joint top scorer with Emily Allen winning the game 1-0 for Oxford.

  Points dropped in recent games had seen Watford FC Ladies slip from 3rd to 5th. Have bounced back with an unbeaten run of 3 matches in the Southern Premier Division. 7 points collected in that time the latest 3 points coming away to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Watford coming back from trailing 1-0 at half-time to win the game 2-1 with a winning goal 6 minutes from time. Rebecca Mcgrother putting Loughborough 1-0 up in the 1st half. Helen Ward equalising for Watford 12 minutes into the 2nd half with her 17th goal of the season. The winner struck late on Alysha Stojko-Down scoring her first goal of the season to see the visitors return home with the 3 points.

  A 7 goal thriller in the other game played in the Southern Premier Division at the weekend with 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Women travelling down to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Zoe Cunningham putting the hosts into the lead in the 12th minute the advantage short-lived with QPR levelling moments later through Jo Wilson. 3 minutes later QPR were in front themselves Wilson striking again to make it 2-1. Jessie Jones bringing it back to 2-2 for Plymouth on the half hour. 2-2 at half-time. Cunningham with her 2nd of the match putting Plymouth back into the lead in the 56th minute. The game entering the final 10 minutes Mollie Taylor extended the home sides lead to make it 4-2, but again QPR responded with a quick reply Wilson on target scoring her 3rd ad completing a hat-trick setting up a tense finish to the game Plymouth holding on however to win the game 4-3.

FAWNL South East Division One

4 games in South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps leading the way involved in the League Cup it was another opportunity for 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap on them to 4 points. Were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday. In need of the points themselves have a growing injury list despite that put in a good defensive display to keep thier opponents at bay, goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of saves. Hit the post up the other end Amy Josland with the strike. Billericay are scoring goals and have a number of prolific players in their side the Essex side getting in front on the hour Zoe Rushen finding the back of the net. It wasn’t until the final minute that the 3 points were secured Sam Pittuck with the strike to see the game won 2-0. Billericay have played 2 more than Crawley.

  In 3rd position in the South East Division One table Actonians Ladies are now unbeaten in 8 games in all competitions. A long trip up to Norfolk this Sunday to take on Norwich City Ladies in the league. A lively start to the match with Carla Williams firing Actonians into a 5th minute lead. Norwich hitting back straight away with Chelsea Garrett firing home to make it 1-1 in the 7th minute. Alessandra Barreca has been Actonians main goal threat in recent seasons and her 19th strike of the season in the 21st minute saw the visitors leading 2-1 at half-time. Kate Parsons introduced to the action for Norwich in the 57th minute she levelled the scores at 2-2 with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Actonians were soon back in front Barreca with her 2nd of the match and 20th of the season scoring what would prove to be the winning.

   Leyton Orient WFC had suffered 3 straight defeats in the league going into this Sunday’s away trip to Mildenhall Town FC to play Cambridge United Women. The hosts taking the lead through a fantastic 25 yard strike from Amber Cantwell. Sophie Le Marchand always a threat on the attack for Leyton Orient put in behind the defence levelling the scores before half-time. The visitors going on to win the game by a single goal scoring again in the 2nd half, Egle Trezzi in midfield playing the ball on for Suaila Cardoso Queni running across the back line top of the area slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. Leyton Orient up a place to 4th position.

Leyton Orient WFC’s Sophie Le Marchand

  Luton Town Ladies had found themselves adrift at the bottom of the South East Division One table a tough season to date just 4 points on the board going into the week. Earned a useful point against a much improved Enfield Town Ladies with a battling 0-0 draw at Enfield on Wednesday night. This weekend were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies. The hosts enduring a run of 4 straight defeats in all competitions going into the game. Luton started well captain Zara Carroll firing home from a free-kick to put the visiting side 1-0 up inside 3 minutes. Dionne Manning rounding the keeper to make it 2-0 inside the opening 15 minutes. Manning with the assist on the half hour for substitute Remi Bains to score. 3-0 up at half-time. Katie Stanley pulling a goal back for Wimbledon midway through the 2nd half. Jess McKay found the bottom corner in the closing minutes to see Luton win the game 4-1 just their 2nd win of the season and close the gap to Denham it 2 points, both Stevenage and Cambridge in danger of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom now on 14 points each.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 17/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th February

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A County Cup weekend across the country saw a limited number of games played in the FAWNL this Sunday with several teams involved in the latter stages of their various cup competitions a few from the county’s covered by Women’s Football East will get a mention later on this weeks 1st edition of The Round-Up concentrates on the games that did take place in the FAWNL itself this Sunday with a look back to the games that took place under the lights during midweek.

  Four games were played in the Southern Premier Division last week, 2nd placed Coventry United Ladies closing the gap to 2 points on leaders Chichester City Ladies who saw their game away to Portsmouth FC Women postponed. Coventry travelling to played Loughborough Foxes Women. Amber Hughes striking in the 9th minute to hand Coventry an early lead her 12th goal of the campaign. Amy Wathan the lead goalscorer just head of Hughes doubling the lead in the 36th minute her 14th of the season. No further goals added in the 2nd half Coventry winning 2-0 are unbeaten in the league with 10 wins from 11 played 3 games in hand on Chichester.

  Also on Thursday night it was a high scoring game between Gillingham FC Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies. An eventful match Gillingham opening the scoring inside 2 minutes with Alice Bussey on target. The visitors from Essex responding quickly with Courtney Clarke scoring to equalise for Basildon. Gemma Abela struck the ball home from 25 yards to put Basildon into the lead in the 15th minute. Midway through the 1st half it was Gillingham’s turn to level the scores Ellie Manning scoring against her former club. 2-2 at the break Gillingham restored their lead just past the hour with Grace Seely finding the back of the net. The game closing in on the final 10 minutes Gillingham got themselves a 2 goal cushion with midfielder player Daisy Monaghan scoring. Holly Turner puling it back to 4-3 to set up a nervous end to the game with 7 minutes left on the clock, in the end it was Gillingham who got a further goal to win the game 5-3 with Samantha Booker getting the goal in the 87th minute.

   Two games before that on Wednesday evening. A trip to the Stadium MK for Oxford United Women as they took on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in the league. Not much separating the sides first half Florence Fyfe scoring in the final minute of the half to put Oxford into the lead with her 9th goal of the season. Oxford defending thier narrow advantage as the game approached the final 10 minutes, a goal from Emily Allen seeing the visitors go 2-0 up a 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the first for Oxford for new signing Cheryl Williams. Oxford up into 4th place in the Southern Premier Division table.

  Queen’s Park Rangers Women were hosting Watford Ladies on Wednesday night the host taking an early lead in the game with Jo Wilson on target in the 2nd minute. Watford levelling the scores midway through the first half with Helen Ward top scorer for Watford getting her 16th goal of the campaign. QPR working hard kept Watford from finding another goal to earn a useful point ending the game with 10 as Hollie Hogan was red carded in the final minute.

  Is all very tight in the chasing pack as Cardiff City Ladies playing in the only Southern Premier Division fixture on Sunday away to Gillingham picked up their 8th win of the season to climb up to 3rd in the table and see 3 sides ties on 25 points with Oxford 4th, Watford 5th and Loughborough Foxes Women just 2 points further back in 6th. Travelling to Kent to take on Gillingham the sides fought out a goalless 1st half, the dead lock broken on the hour with Emma Jones firing a shot home to put Cardiff 1 up. Remained tight Cardiff defending late in as Gillingham pushed for a reply deep into stoppage time the visitors breaking Kylie Nolan firing the ball home to seal the win for Cardiff.

FAWNL Cup

Both in action in midweek Loughborough Foxes Women were at home taking on South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side getting their noses in front late in the first half with Charlotte Cooper getting to the ball first at the near post to turn the ball into the back of the net to see the hosts leading 1-0 at half-time. Loughborough doubling the advantage early in the 2nd half with Rebecca McGrother putting the ball in from close range at the far post off a right wing cross. McGrother scoring again in stoppage time as Loughborough hit their opponents on the counter to win 3-0 and book their place in the last 4. An away trip to either Northern Premier Division leaders or 2nd placed Huddersfield Town Ladies awaits in the semi-final with the pair meeting this coming Sunday. 

Coventry United Ladies are at home to Crawley Wasps Ladies also this coming Sunday in the FAWNL Cup the winners will be at home to Northern Division One side Bolton Wanderers Ladies in the semi-finals both games scheduled for Sun 3rd March.

  In the last 4 of the FAWNL Plate competition, Gillingham FC Ladies will be at home to West Bromich Albion Ladies. Liverpool Feds Women will be away to the winners of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies & Keynsham Town Ladies who meet this coming Sunday. Again both games to be played Sun 3rd March.

FAWNL South East Division One

Again their was just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, but we’ll begin with the action in midweek. 4 games played on Wednesday night. One of those is were Women’s Football East was a trip to Plantation Park to watch the East Anglian Derby between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women. Ipswich starting the bright had a couple of efforts cannon off the woodwork it was Norwich whoever who took the lead a well worked goal through the middle of the park started and finished by Reeanna Cook the young midfielder getting into the box left of goal curling a strike into the top corner. 1-0 the lead at half-time striker Chelsea Garrett was introduced for Norwich making her return after 3 months out injured made a immediate impact running onto a ball forwards in behind and striking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 in the 46th minute. Norwich growing in confidence were the better side in the 2nd period Cook with a driving run on the left firing home late in the game for her 2nd of the game and Norwich’s 3rd to take the 3 points climb above their rivals. Head coach Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role at Ipswich after the game.

   South East Division One leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Wednesday. An early goal for Crawley Rachel Palmer sending the ball in as Megan Stow squared it to her from a cleared corner. Wimbledon coming close to an equaliser Crawley taking a 2-0 lead in the game inside the opening quarter hour with Kemina Webber scoring. The visitors awarded a brace of penalties late in the 1st half Naomi Cole converting both in the 36th and 44th minute to see them lead 4-0 at the break. No more goals added in the 2nd period Crawley’s 100% record extended to 11 games in the league. 

  A brace from Zoe Rushen was the difference between the sides as 2nd placed Billericay Town Lades took on Leyton Orient WFC on Wednesday night. Rushen on target with a goal in each half. Leyton Orient pressing for an equaliser drawing level in the 65th minute with Egle Trezzi making it 1-1. Rushen on the scoresheet again to make it 2-1 and win the game for Billericay.

   The points were shared in the other match played in South East Division One on Wednesday night with Cambridge United WFC travelling to Hertford Town FC to play Stevenage Ladies. Goalless at the break between the sides Vicky Neal getting the ball past the keeper to put Cambridge into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Stevenage coming back to rescue a point late on the game with former Cambridge player Ashleigh Deacon scoring to make it 1-1 in the 87th minute.

  Stevenage were at home again on Sunday the latest side to try and put an end to Crawley Wasps 100% record in the league. Crawley maintaining strong form throughout the season aren’t keen on giving it up. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with Amy Woollard on target for her first goal for Crawley. Kemina Webber scoring to see Crawley leading 2-0 in the 45th minute. Megan Stow further extending the visitors lead with a goal in the 58th minute to make it 3-0, a quick fire brace from Naomi Cole and Webber in the 62nd & 64th minutes putting Crawley in full control of the game Cole went on to add a 2nd with a spectacular strike from centreback Charlotte Young in the final minute sealing a 7-0 win, 12 wins from 12 now Crawley 7 points clear at the top of the table.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 13/01/19

Sunday 13th January

FAWNL Cup

Two matches outstanding in the FAWNL Cup played this Sunday. A place in the last 8 of the competition up for grabs. The top two in the Southern Premier Division drawn together with leaders, Chichester City Ladies hosting title rivals Coventry United Ladies in the 3rd Round. A physical encounter Coventry held the narrow advantage at half-time, Natasha Merritt heading the visitors into the lead in the 39th minute. Coventry doubling their lead early in the 2nd half with Amber Hughes breaking through on goal to score. Chichester creating opportunities had a player advantage for the final 20 minutes of the game with Merritt shown a 2nd yellow sent off. 10 player Coventry held out though to win the game 2-0 to reach the quarter finals where they will face South East Division One leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies.

Crawley were also in FAWNL Cup action this weekend, having beaten Coventry United Ladies just last Sunday in the FA Women’s Cup, were making the trip South West to player higher league opposition once again, their opponents, Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Crawley holding a slender 0-1 lead at the break with a goal from Sian Heather the difference between the sides. Substitute Kemina Webber making an immediate impact doubling the visitors lead in the 2nd period. Plymouth mounting a late comeback to force the game into extra-time, closing in on the last 10 minutes a goal from Kayley Lane saw the hosts pull it back to 2-1 then late into stoppage time a goal from a free-kick by captain Katie Middleton saw them level the tie.

More drama in extra-time with Crawley retaking the lead early on Webber netting her 2nd goal of the game. Plymouth coming back once again to level the scores a few minutes later Leah Burridge making it 3-3. Faye Rabson scoring a great solo effort saw Crawley take the lead once more, no come back for Plymouth this time with the visitors adding a 5th goal to settle the game Webber completing her hat-trick to see Crawley into the quarter finals with a 5-3 victory.

The draw for the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup and Plate competitions made soon after, the games to be played Sunday 10th February are listed below:-

FAWNL Cup Quarter Finals

Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Stoke City Ladies

Huddersfield Town Ladies v Blackburn Rovers Ladies

Coventry United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

Loughborough Foxes Women v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

FAWNL Plate Quarter Finals

Barnsley FC Ladies v West Bromich Albion Women

Liverpool Marshalls Feds Women v Middlesborough Women

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies

Stevenage Ladies v Gillingham Ladies

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with the top two involved in the FAWNL Cup it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Watford Ladies to close the gap as they travelled to Wales to take on 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies. Never an easy place to go Cardiff were looking for a 3rd straight league victory themselves, took the lead in the 20th minute Cori Williams scoring from the penalty spot after Grace Horrell was brought down inside the box. Successfully defending their lead Cardiff holding a player advantage for the final 22 minutes with Watford’s Georgie Edwards red carded.

Gillingham Ladies picked up a valuable 3 points on Sunday to pull them further clear of the bottom two in the table the gap nine points now. Were at home taking on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Breon Grant putting Gillingham into the lead in the 20th minute scoring her 7th goal of the campaign. Alice Bussey doubling the hosts lead with 3 minutes left in the 1st half with her 7th of the season. A 2-0 lead going into the 2nd half Gillingham kept a clean sheet to earn the 3 points.

Portsmouth FC Women started 2019 with a win in the Southern Premier Division ending a run of 3 straight league defeats, bringing in new players, they welcomed back an old face this weekend with Shannon Albuery returning in loan from Yeovil Town Ladies. Were at home this Sunday taking on Essex side, C&K Basildon Ladies bottom of the table. Eilidh Currie putting Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half. 1-0 at half-time Jade Bradley struck just past the hour to double Portsmouth’s lead and see the game won 2-1 Portsmouth climbing back to 7th in the table.

FAWNL South East Division One

Crawley Wasps Ladies have a strong lead at the top of FAWNL South East Division One their squad with a 100% winning record since promotion to the league. Fellow promoted side Billericay Town Ladies likewise have been strong building a squad that has seen them push Crawley and take a firm grip on 2nd spot. Below it is very tight little separating the sides 3rd to 7th, with anyone capable of going on a run and moving up the table.

AFC Wimbledon doing just that held 3rd spot on goal difference going into the weekend travelling to a side in need of the points themselves, Cambridge United WFC. A lack of league games towards the end of 2018 the cup dominating had seen Cambridge slip to 3rd bottom, games in hand however a positive run would place them right amongst the battle for places above. Wimbledon coming off the back of a great win in the FA Women’s Cup started the game the stronger had Cambridge penned in their own half for the majority of the game creating opportunities a dogged defensive display from the hosts had very few attackers themselves against the run of play however it was Cambridge who took the lead in the 35th minute with a well worked goal. A throw high on the left into the box held up well by Mollie Coupar moving to the top of the area cut the ball back to captain Kelley Blanchflower peeling into space right of goal she squaring the ball across the face of goal Jade Bell bursting clear to smash the ball into goalkeeper Kelly Edie the ball popping up favourably for Bell to follow up an put it over the line Cambridge leading 1-0 at half-time.

Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower with Wimbledon’s, Rebecca Sargent

A completely different game 2nd half with Cambridge making a positive start attacking Wimbledon got themselves a 2nd goal early on, Coupar with involved again a good run into the box from the left fizzing a cross into the six yard box Blanchflower timing her run to perfection meeting the ball smashing it into the back of the net. An open game from then on Wimbledon remaining positive searching for a reply, Cambridge clearing the ball up to Coupar running in behind good strength shown as she was pushed wide of goal struck a shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner to make it 3-0. Savannah Smith saving to keep the visitors from scoring up the other end the 3 points easing any worries of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom Cambridge joining the tail end of the tussle in the middle of the table.

Billericay Town Ladies are 4 points clear of the sides in pursuit of them in 2nd. Maintained that gap with a strong home performance against 2nd bottom side Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Jay Blackie netting twice moves onto 10 for the season since joining the Essex side in the summer. There was a brace too for Esme Lancaster, with Sophie Vale on target for her 1st goal for Billericay’s 1st team this season. Danica Dougal scoring too from a long range free-kick, Billericay running out 6-0 winners.

Leyton Orient WFC climb above Wimbledon into 3rd in the South East Division One table. At home this Sunday taking on bottom side Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking the lead from an own goal midway through the 1st half Sophie Le Marchand’s shot striking the post rolling along the goal face unfortunately finding the back of the net. Leyton Orient pressing well doubled the lead in 1st half stoppage time Chloe McNee with an ambitious shot from distance scoring. A 3rd goal needed with Luton pushing for a reply was added in the 70th minute with Camila Pescatore scoring her 1st goal for the club.

Also moving above Wimbledon into 5th place in the FAWNL South East Division One table are Actonians Ladies. Were at home playing Stevenage Ladies. Actonians taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Alessandra Barreca heading the ball home from a corner. Stevenage found a quick reply equalising 5 minutes later with Shona Chitate making it 1-1. Actonians creating opportunities, retook the lead late in the 1st half awarded a penalty Barreca stepped up to score her 2nd of the game. A 2-1 lead at half-time Actonians kept Stevenage from getting any control as they calved out further chances extending the lead in the 57th minute Mariko Eagles on target with the goal. Substitute, Melissa Jung with a long range effort striking to make it 4-1 to Actonians. Barreca scoring her 3rd to complete a hat-trick in the final 5 minutes to see the game won 5-1.

Norwich City Ladies were at home this Sunday in league action against Enfield Town Ladies. Aimee Durrant putting Norwich into an early lead firing home in the 11th minute. Almost half an hour gone and Enfield levelled the scores with Danielle Smith getting the goal. The scores level at the break it was Norwich who struck early in the 2nd half to retake the lead Jodie Drake making it 2-1. That the score late into the game Enfield pressing finding a late goal to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match to earn a point Lily Bruno the scorer her 1st for the club making just her 2nd appearance.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 14/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th October

FAWNL Cup

A break from the league this Sunday as the FAWNL Cup and Plate competitions enter the 2nd Round a place in the last 16 up for grabs. 8 2nd Round ties in the Cup featuring sides from the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One. Sunday was a very wet day heavy rain overnight on Saturday with more falling for much of the day, Postponements everywhere and the FAWNL Cup no exception seeing two 2nd Round ties called off, Southampton Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Cambridge United Women v Leyton Orient WFC the casualties.

  The other taking place in rather damp conditions, it was the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup where the action from the Women’s Football East match report came from a trip down to Hertfordshire to watch Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies. A clash between the top two in the Southern Premier Division, Coventry United Ladies top by a point unbeaten. Watford FC Ladies with just the one loss. Coventry getting off to the better start, Weronika Baronowska making a couple of vital saves for Watford their goal breached in the 20th minute, the ball falling to Marie Gauntlett outside the box a left foot half volley striking the ball into the back of the net. Susan Wood at the other end with a crucial save with her legs to deny Linda Afuakwah from finding the equaliser. Coventry 1-0 to the good at the break.

   The majority of Watford’s goals however have come in the 2nd half, not out of it at all although they fell behind soon after the restart Amber Hughes inside the box looping a cross in to drop in front of goal Lois Jefferies there to nod the ball in from close range. Watford attacking 2nd half were to get a goal back with Katie O’Leary sending Helen Ward through on goal to score. Coventry playing the ball well through the middle good build-up seeing Jade Brook with the ball 30 yards out right side took on the shot a brilliant effort flying up and over the keeper to land inside the net caught by the stanchion. Leading 3-1 Watford kept going and stretching the visitors at the back O’Leary racing in on goal met a right wing cross the ball dropping down off her to roll in off the post. A tense finish but Coventry held onto their goal advantage to win and progress into the next round.

3-1 to Coventry a brilliant strike from Jade Brook

A bit of controversy in the other 2nd Round FAWNL Cup tie featuring an all Southern Premier Division line-up. Queens Park Rangers Women not happy with the refereeing decisions as they were knocked out of the competition through to late goals from visitors Loughborough Foxes Women. It was QPR Women who held the advantage at half-time Jo Wilson netting the home sides goal in the 34th minute. 7 minutes into the 2nd half and Loughborough got the equaliser awarded a penalty, Laura Steele sending the ball into the back of the net. 5 minutes left and Loughborough took the lead Eva Rogers with the goal to make it 2-1 QPR goalkeeper Gillian Kasirye injured in the same incident QPR protesting, Courtney Ward-Chambers shown a red card for dissent and Kasirye unable to continue the hosts down to 9. Loughborough going on to add a 3rd goal deep into stoppage time with Rebecca McGrother on target.

 Oxford United Women were hosting South East Division One leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup. Goalless at half-time, a rocket from Sophie Baker saw the Southern Premier Division side take the lead in the 52nd minute. The game almost up it looked like Crawley’s 100% record at the start of the season was finally over, into stoppage time and a free-kick awarded to the visitors Naomi Cole scoring from it to make it 1-1 and send the game into extra-time. The visiting side having the better of the extra period of play Emma Plewa scoring to put Crawley in front with 3 minutes gone Sian Heather on target to make it 3-1 7 minutes later. Crawley advancing in the FAWNL Cup with an extra-time win.

   Extra-time too needed for AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup the South East Division One side on the road playing Larkhall Athletic Ladies from South West Division One. Larkhall taking the lead in the 30th minute, Wimbledon hitting back just 4 minutes later to level Katie Stanley making it 1-1. Honours even at half-time it was Wimbledon with the better start 2nd half getting into the lead Caroline Bisson scoring the goal in the 47th minute. That the score closing in the final 10 minutes Larkhall getting themselves back on level terms 2-2 after the 90 the game heading into extra-time. Captain Jess Trimnell the hero in extra-time scoring what would prove to be the winning goal to send Wimbledon through. Katy-May O’Hara Nash and Mel Sartain with the goals for Larkhall.

  South Premier Division side Cardiff City Ladies were at home in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup taking on South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies. The lower league side getting off to a great start scoring inside the opening 3 minutes Ella Hitchcox through on goal to make it 1-0. Cardiff back on level terms in the 18th minute Grace Horrell getting hold of the ball to score to make it 1-1 the home side leading midway through the 1st half Kylie Nolan slotting a rebound home. A 2-1 lead for Cardiff at half-time. Nolan scoring her 2nd of the game a minute after the 2nd half whistle to make it 3-1 to Cardiff. Into the final 10 minutes and Hitchcox scores her 2nd of the match to bring it back to 3-2. 3 minutes left and Cheltenham are level Annie Martin with the goal to make it 3-3. A corner to Cardiff in the final minute Cori Williams getting her head on the ball to put Cardiff back into the lead then deep into stoppage time Williams on hand from another corner to score and see Cardiff win the game 5-3.

   South East Division One side, Billericay Town Ladies, 2nd in table were hosting Chichester City Ladies in 4th spot in the Southern Premier Division in the FAWNL Cup 2nd Round. Billericay giving a good account of themselves coming close to taking the lead Zoe Rushen seeing a shot hit the bar, Chichester finding the winning goals late on into the last 15 minutes Holly Wride giving the visitors the lead with Molly Clark making it 2-0 to Chichester in the final minute to see them through to the next round.

FAWNL Plate

Also the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate this Sunday. 5 scheduled games featuring sides from the Southern Premier and South East Division One. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies game away to Brislington Ladies falling foul of the weather. A switch of venues saw Maidenhead United Ladies and Denham United Ladies play their 2nd Round tie. It was the South West Division One side who opened the scoring Anie McKeever making it 1-0 to Maidenhead. Denham United coming back to level the scores with 5 minutes left on the clock Rachel Keightley scoring the goal to force the game into extra-time. No more scored in the extra period of play the game headed into a penalty shootout, Denham not scoring from their 1st to, Maidenhead did to go on a clinch a 4-2 shootout win to progress.

   South East Division One side, Actonians Ladies fell foul to an injury time winner to exit the FAWNL Plate. Were hosting South West Division One side, Chesham United Ladies. The visitors getting the opening goal with Emma Delves on target in the 17th minute. 1-0 up at half-time, Carla Williams getting Actonians back level making it 1-1 midway through the 2nd half. Deep into stoppage time Chesham found the winner, Gemma Fraser putting the ball home to see the visitors celebrate.

   Luton Town Ladies made it all the way through to the FAWNL Plate final last season, there 1st national final appearance. In the 2nd Round of the Plate this time they were drawn away to Southern Premier Division side, Gillingham FC Ladies. The hosts taking the lead in the game 1-0 inside the opening 10 minutes. Gillingham hitting a purple patch with 33 minutes played scoring 3 goals in 6 minutes to go 4-0 up, Breon Grant, Alice Bussey and Emma Sherwood with the goals. 4-0 up at half-time a harsh scoreline for Luton the visitors fought back well in the 2nd half. Jess McKay pulling a goal back in the 47th minute Gillingham hitting back straight away Sherwood with her 2nd of the match making it 5-1. Captain Rachel Carter scoring in the 52nd minute. McKay with her 2nd of the game on 67 bringing it back to 5-3. A tense final 10 minutes to the match as Aurora Ryan grabbed a goal to make it 5-4. Gillingham holding to knock Luton out and progress in the competition.

  Ipswich Town Women were at last finding a bit of form coming in to this Sunday’s FAWNL Plate tie the South East Division One side hosting Southern Premier Division side, C&K Basildon Ladies. A few ex-Basildon players in their ranks Ipswich took the lead in the 15th minute Zoe Cossey with the strike. Natasha Thomas scoring to make it 2-0 to the hosts with 7 minutes of the 1st half left. 2 more goals right at the end of the 1st half giving the hosts a comfortable lead, Toni-Anne Wayne scoring her 1st goals for Ipswich a minute apart. Ipswich defending their 4 goal lead until deep into stoppage time where C&K Basildon managed to pull in back to 4-2 but it was too little too late as Ipswich go through.

Match Report – Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

Sunday 14th October

FAWNL Cup – 2nd Round

 A game from the FAWNL Cup this Sunday on Women’s Football East. The top two in the Southern Premier Division drawn together in the 2nd Round of the competition, Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies.

   The first to 2 successive meetings between the clubs with both scheduled to face each other in the league with Watford travelling to Daventry next weekend. This Sunday though it’s all about the Cup. A Determining Round played at the beginning of the season to decide which competition the sides from the 6 FAWNL leagues the teams will contest the victors going on to compete for the Cup the losing sides entering the Plate.

   Watford FC Ladies dropping down a league to join the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this season. One of the founding members of FAWSL 2, the restructure of the top tiers in the women’s game seeing it become the Championship, teams offered the chance to bid for a new licence. Watford FC Ladies chose early on not to bid for a place for various reasons cost being one factor. Are one of 5 sides to have dropped down from the top two tiers. Has been a turbulent few seasons for Watford often at the wrong end of the FAWSL 2 table, and the decision not to apply for a new license saw more turbulence with player and staff departures.

  Making that decision early though has seen the club rebuild and restructure setting itself up going forwards to be in a strong position as it enters the FAWNL. A great start to the league campaign, have lost just the once this season to newly promoted Loughborough Foxes Women who came out of the blocks making a fantastic start themselves. Since that defeat back at the end of August, Watford have gone on to win 6 in a row in league and cup to see them 2nd in the table a point behind today’s opponents.

   Coventry United Ladies top the Southern Premier Division table are the only undefeated side in the league with the only points being dropped in a opening day 0-0 draw away to Gillingham FC Ladies. Have one of the best defensive records in the league too conceding just 4 goals to date. Are more often then not one of the sides challenging at the top of the table over recent seasons. A couple of big matches coming up away to their nearest rivals in the league and cup. 3rd and 4th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Chichester City Ladies have both started the season well 3 points back will be keen observers whilst 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies even at this early stage have games in hand on all the sides above them.

  Byes for both sides in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Cup, Watford FC Ladies winning their Determining Round tie away to South West Division One side Poole Town Ladies 2-1. Coventry United Ladies with a comfortable 7-0 win at home against South East Division One side, Norwich City Ladies.

  A wet drive down to this afternoon’s match from Norfolk, the rain heavy at times and with games already called off close to the ground I checked in with Watford before heading out, the pitch good so far so I set off arriving at King’s Langley FC with the rain falling heavily fingers crossed umbrella up. As it was the rain would stop leading up to kick-off, the pitch looking good had held out well a good size, a bar and hot food trailer available cover if needed. 

Watford FC Ladies starting XI – Weronika Baranowska, Katherine Huggins, Emily Hill, Sammy Hallsworth, Georgie O’Halloran, Alysha Stojko-Down, Danielle Scanlon, Laura Baker, Linda Afuakwah, Katie )’Leary & Helen Ward (C). Subs – Amy Martin, Anaisa Harvey, Afiya Johnson, Katie Akerman & Andrea Carid. 

Coventry United Ladies starting XI – Susan Wood (C), Laura McGlone, Chemise Austin, Natasha Merritt, Nikki Miles, Jade Brook, Marie Gauntlett, Amber Hughes, Rosie McDonnell, Lois Jefferies & Amy Wathan. Subs – Jenna Roberts, Erin Riden, Ellie White & Shannon O’Brien.

 Coventry with the kick-off in the 1st half the visitors kitted out in red shirts with green shorts and socks. Watford wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Play the ball forwards into the right channel, Katherine Huggins winning the ball for Watford sends it forwards picked up by captain Helen Ward, the experienced Welsh International pulling out to the left drives on with the ball her shot from outside the area blocked by Chenise Austin at right back for Coventry the rebound back to Ward she takes it beyond the full back shoots from the angle, Susan Wood, Coventry’s goalkeeper and captain claiming the ball low at her near post.

   Coventry attack with purpose down the left side winning a throw deep in the Watford half the ball dropped into Marie Gauntlett she holds up well before shifting the ball and turning sends a cross long across the Watford six yard box, Hughes running in far post not quite able to get onto the ball to deflect it goalwards as it runs out of play. A good start to the game from the visitors getting players forwards Gauntlett covering alot of ground across the Watford area early on sees the ball into her feet left side turning well fires the ball across the top of the area Jade Brook meeting it 20 yards out right of the D strikes in a low shot that races just wide of the left post. 

Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

   Central Gauntlett feeds in Rosie McDonnell on the right side shoots from a tight angle a fierce strike rising, Watford goalkeeper, Weronika Baronowska making a great save throwing herself up to tip the ball over the bar. The corner kick from the right a good ball in by Amber Hughes players at the top of the area Watford blocking a couple of goal attempts struggle to clear their box a clearance hitting Brook, the rebound back in towards the top of the area falls to Nikki Miles the Coventry defender volleying the shot wide. 

Watford FC Ladies goalkeeper, Weronika Baronowska

  Space for Linda Afuakwah to run into on the right as the ball is won in midfield the Watford attacker taking the ball on towards the area, Laura McGlone coming back to get close in on Afuakwah and slide in to make the tackle the ball going behind for Watford’s first corner of the match. Taken short put back into the taker on the right the cross long to the far post area pulled down and the shot sent over the bar. 

  Coventry working the ball well pressing Watford back in their own half, Ward sometimes isolated in attack when home side do get the ball forwards. Good movement from Ward nonetheless to make herself available peeling away to the left, Miles comes across the defend for Coventry. Hughes and McDonnell switching wings repeatedly, the latter on the left this attack combines with with Lois Jefferies looking to get inside is dispossessed by Watford’s Emily Hill. A free-kick won on the left for Coventry inside the Watford half down the line for McDonnell crossing into the area, Sammy Hallsworth getting up highest heads the ball out for the corner.

  The corner left side an inviting ball across the six yard box Brook meeting it far post with the stooping header from close in the ball knocked into the ground cleared by the Watford defence covering the post. Another set-piece for Coventry on the right this time a good way out Brook playing a good delivery into the area headed down central towards the near post attacked, between defender and goalkeeper Watford make the block/save. Baranowska with an important save minutes later as Coventry’s Brook plays a fantastic 30 yard ball up into the area Jefferies up central heading the ball down Amy Wathan to her right hitting the shot goalwards Baranowska coming towards her sliding into block. 

Amy Wathan looking to receive the ball from throw-in

   Afuakwah winning Watford a throw on right played into Ward her strike blocked  the ball running out to Danielle Scanlon, sees Katie O’Leary looking to run in behind on the left a great ball into her, O’Leary frustrated by the offside flag up against her. 

  GOAL! 20 minutes played and Coventry get the opening goal, have looked the most likely. Brook with the ball right side getting down the wing holds up well before firing a cross into the area the clearance coming straight for Gauntlett outside the box inside the D, setting herself gets her left foot up over the ball to hit it on the half-volley, the strike hit well racing past Baranowska into the back of the net 0-1.

Marie Gauntlett scorer of the opening goal for Coventry United Ladies

   Watford respond well very nearly getting back on level terms straight from the restart, O’Leary winning the ball playing a great ball forwards with Afuakwah coming into a central position her touch taking he into the area Wood coming to close the angle goes to shoot across the keeper as she dives to her left, makes an excellent save with her leg to stop the shot going past her. Coventry go forwards right side Hughes winning the corner. In central Wathan jumping to meet it the ball heading in towards goal taken high by Baranowska on her line. 

  A yellow card shown to Natasha Merritt for a crude foul on Afuakwah. O’Leary winning the ball inside her own half plays in on through the Laura Baker a superb touch taking the ball on for Ward to run onto central clear but a fraction offside as the flag goes up. Watford beginning to exert pressure on the ball higher up the pitch Alysha Stojko-Down with the ball out to Afuakwah on the right, McGlone with support from Miles winning the ball back for Coventry. 

  Watford launch a counter attack the ball brought out from the ball played on with Georgie O’Halloran bursting forwards right side the ball played on spinning as it lands in front of her favouring McGlone as she tracks back with the defender 20 yards out looks to send the ball back to her keeper to clear not realising Ward has anticipated the move latching onto the ball inside the area, closing on on the near post strikes the shot Wood saving blocking the ball as she drops to cover her goal. 

  Watford push on right side Afuakwah keeping the ball in play has support from Baker receiving the pass she sends the cross high into the Coventry area, O’Leary rising gets her head on the ball central her touch taking the ball wide of the far post. The home side stretching Coventry at the back Afuakwah inside the area gets hold of the ball Ward central she looks to pick her out Wood getting in between the pair dives onto the ball. Hughes with the ball 40 yards out drives forwards riding 3 challenges before being stopped no advantage play brought back for the first foul. Merritt over the ball with a good effort at goal from distance narrowly over the bar. 

  Jefferies with the ball on the left receiving from a throw-in played long across the top of the Watford area picked up by Hughes far side takes the ball inside before shooting Baranowska dropping to save near post. The rain has started to fall heavily once more. Baker plays the ball on for O’Leary, in behind for a moment Miles is quick to get across and close her down. O’Leary takes the opportunity to strike a shot from 25 yards out left side as the ball falls to her a deflection sending the ball wide across goal for a corner kick on the right. An inswinging ball central claimed well by Wood with Afuakwah in close attendance.

    Half-time Watford FC Ladies 0-1 Coventry United Ladies

  A narrow lead for Coventry at half-time, have been the better side first half and but for some excellent saves by Baranowska may have been 2 or 3 goals to the good. Not that they have had it all there own way Watford having a couple of great opportunities to score up the other end and Wood has made some vital stops aswell. All to play for 2nd half and Watford have scored 80% of their goals this season in the 2nd half – I can’t take any credit for that stat but it popped up on my twitter feed at just the right moment – and as you know I do love a good stat.

Watford’s Laura Baker, looking to close down Coventry’s Natasha Merritt as she brings the ball forwards

  A change for Watford at the break, Huggins coming off, Andrea Carid coming on the move seeing Baker move into the left back position. Watford to kick-off the second half the rain still falling steadily. Baker called into action straight away as McDonnell is played in on the right wing the new left back sliding in to take the ball.

  GOAL! The early goal comes 2nd half but not the way the home side wanted as Watford concede a 2nd goal. The ball out to the left Hughes taking it into the box under challenge lifts the ball high into the air dropping in front of goal goal Jefferies arriving the head the ball in from close range to make it 0-2.

    O’Leary with the ball right side a good run, strong on the ball shoots, Wood claiming it at her near post. Hallsworth defending well inside her area as Brook drives on for Coventry with the ball central running on puts the ball into Wathan back to ball tries to send the return ball on for Brook, Hallsworth getting hold of the ball. Brook with so impressive runs on the ball for Coventry covering plenty of ground sends it on for McDonnell breaking right, Baker closing her down regain possession for Watford. 

Alysha Stojko-Down on the ball for Watford FC Ladies

  Stojko-Down wins the ball for Watford plays in Scanlon, her forward ball trying to find Ward just too long. Watford pressing the ball well, is just not sticking as they look to hold onto possession, Coventry not settling for a 2 goal lead. Gauntlett spinning on the ball has Hughes running on her right plays the pass Hughes picking the ball up 20 yards out looks to cut inside get into the area, Hallsworth closing her down putting in a good challenge to win the ball as Hughes looks to pull the trigger.

Coventry bring the ball on Gauntlett out to the right with Brook making a good run her cross long to the far post Jefferies can’t get a touch, McDonnell picking it up left side plays the ball back into the box Wathan latching onto the shot, Baranowska saving low at her near post. Gauntlett with a shot from 25 yards out, rising Baranowska positioned centrally taking the ball high into her gloves. 

  GOAL! Watford pull a goal back with 20 minutes of the 2nd half played, O’Leary with the ball has Ward on the right making a god run sends the ball into her path taking it in the striker surges on closing in on the area and hits the shot low and fast past the diving Wood to score 1-2.

3-1 to Coventry a brilliant strike from Jade Brook

  Coventry respond by making a change McGlone giving way for Erin Riden. The home side winning a free-kick on the right 10 yards inside the Coventry half the delivery lofted forwards into the box met by the jumping O’Leary near post places her effort wide of goal. Carid on the ball pushes it on for Ward right side, coming inside Miles does well coming to close her down winning a goalkick. 

  GOAL! Coventry restore their 2 goal cushion and it comes courtesy of a thunderbolt from Brook. I’m standing right behind this goal and it’s a real treat, Brook bringing the ball on forwards into Jefferies plays it back to Brook into space right side 30 or so yards out decides she’s going for it connects well the ball destined for the top corner the ball trapped by the net bracket inside the goal 1-3. A quality strike I will be looking out for the highlights, you’ll want to too.

Watford FC Ladies, Katie O’Leary

   20 minutes left to play Watford have a corner kick on the right the ball into the area headed wide across goal, another corner signalled. Left side the ball swung in O’Leary attacking it far post put wide. 

 GOAL! For the 2nd time in the match Watford reduce the deficit to a single goal. Attacking down the left Afuakwah is clipped by Hughes was she recklessly slides in to tackle the advantage played O’Leary after the ball the cross swung into the area, finds its way out to the right side crossed back in dropping far post O’Leary rushing in gets something on the ball drops down rolling along the goal line unsure if it is over via a Coventry defender or the post but if I was O’Leary I’d be claiming it 2-3 game on.

  Extra-time and penalties loom if a winner can’t be decided in the 90. The referee consulting his linesman coming back to book Hughes. Watford tails up now sense they can find a 3rd goal make a change Stojko-Down coming off, Anaisa Harvey coming on. 10 minutes left to play. Miles winning the ball at the back for Coventry as the home side press on the right. Hallsworth defending for Watford at her near post as Hughes attacking down the left fires the ball in Hallsworth doing well with Jefferies on her shoulder. Baker shown a yellow for a foul on Brook.

   A 3rd and final change for Watford, Afiya Johnson into the action replacing  Afuakwah. Into the final 5 minutes. Hughes nipping in to win the ball inside the Watford area left, Baranowska saving the shot. With Watford pressing the attack looking for a 3rd goal Coventry counter the ball played on for Jefferies 20 yards out her touch sending the ball wide of the onrushing keeper, Jefferies goes on shapes to shoot the Watford defence racing back a good block from Hallsworth to deny the striker a 2nd goal.

  O’Leary is taken out by Austin as she attacks down the right the free-kick awarded players forwards. O’Leary picking herself up into the area for the set-piece the target as the ball is delivered in near post the no 14 getting her head on the ball sends it wide across the face of goal. Watford attacking with purpose late on Hill with the pass long out t Ward moving left takes the ball wider challenged as she comes back inside, the rebound to Baker lofted into the area, Miles clearing for Coventry. Miles with two further important wins inside her area as Watford push on late into the game into stoppage time the ball played long left picked up by Gauntlett she takes it sensibly into the corner time up Coventry win the game to progress in the League Cup.   

 Full time Watford FC Ladies 2-3 Coventry United Ladies

  An enjoyable encounter between the top two in the Southern Premier Division meeting in the League Cup. A run of 9 unbeaten now for Coventry look strong know themselves though there’s a long way to go. Started the game well took the lead may well have been further ahead, perhaps the 2nd goal after the restart proving the most crucial Watford coming back into it to set up a nervy finish to the game. Meet again in the league with Coventry the home side this time around know alot more about each other now just a point between them will be another interesting encounter. Coventry go on in the League Cup will be a side others will be hoping to avoid.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as usual few contenders although one did stand out during the 90. Sammy Hallsworth with some good defensive work for Watford, Weronika Baranowska with some vital saves too. Marie Gauntlett working tirelessly in midfield scoring the opening goal for Coventry, Nikki Miles strong at the back. Today’s award though goes to Jade Brook a great game in the middle of the park for Coventry on and off the ball moving into space making herself available and setting up others capping it off with a quality strike.

  Wet, I supposed I’ll have to get used to a few more like that. An enjoyable game high time I took in some Southern Premier Division action albeit in the League Cup. My thanks to everyone at Watford FC Ladies who offered assistance today it was greatly appreciated. 

The Round-Up – FAWNL 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Five straight league wins for Coventry United Ladies now takes them back to the top of the FAWNL Southern Division. Unbeaten in 7 at the start of the season. At home on Sunday taking on C&K Basildon Ladies, goals from Amber Hughes and Jade Brook seeing Coventry start strongly 2 up after 10 minutes. C&K Basildon pulling a goal back before the half-time interval. Brook with her 2nd of the game restoring Coventry’s 2 goal cushion on the hour. Amy Wathan scoring in the last 10 minutes to see Coventry record a 4-1 win to move top ahead of Watford FC Ladies.

   Losing to Coventry a fortnight ago Chichester City Ladies unbeaten start to the season came to an end last weeks fixture at home to Cardiff City Ladies falling foul of the weather, Chichester were on the road this weekend back in league action taking on Loughborough Foxes Women. A tight game the sides contesting a goalless first half, Chichester striking early 2nd half Molly Clark on 47 minutes scoring what would prove to be the winning goal, Chichester in 3rd keep the pressure on the leading pair.

   Plymouth Argyle Ladies impressive start to the season continues the South West Division One Champions now up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after they won for the 4th successive game. Were on the road taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Helen Bleazard with a 1st half double handing Plymouth a 2-0 half-time advantage, they didn’t have it all their own way 2nd half, QPR fighting back with 2 quickfire goals to level the scores, new signing Whitney Locke scoring her 1st goal for the club on 65 minutes, Rochelle Shakes also newly arrived making it 2-2, 4 minutes later. Plymouth coming back to retake the lead and go on to win the game Zoe Cunningham finding the back of the net to make it 3-2 with 7 minutes left.

   A 2nd league win in the Southern Premier Division for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as the newly promoted side winning South East Division One start to find their feet in the league. At home on Sunday at Stadium MK up against Gillingham FC Ladies. Another close contest 0-0 for 75 minutes, the winning goal was struck home by Kim Farrow for Milton Keynes Dons in the 76th minute to win them the 3 points moving them onto 7 points after 7 played.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Kim Farrow

FAWNL Cup

 This weekend saw the 1st Round’s of the FAWNL Cup and Plate taking place, a handful of ties in both competitions with most handed a bye to the 2nd Round. Two 1st Round Cup matches featuring South East Division One sides, AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home taking on Buckland Athletic Ladies from the South West Division One. Bernice Tully with her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon giving the hosts a 21st minute lead Laura Quinn-Low also scoring for the 1st time this season seeing AFC Wimbledon leading 2-0 at half-time. Jenny Nagle another scoring her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon to put them 3 up midway through the 2nd half. Georgia Heasman in her 1st game back in Wimbledon colours adding a 4th goal with 5 minutes left.

   Was a 7 goal thriller in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round tie on Sunday, South East Division One side, Enfield Town Ladies hosting, Southampton Women of South West Division One. Nuala McKevitt putting Enfield 1 up within 6 minutes of the start. Southampton coming back equalised through Kayleigh Tonks in the 22nd minute the visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half Natalie Bavister on target. 2-1 the lead for Southampton, Jane Yates gave them a 3-1 lead scoring 2 minutes into the 2nd period. Enfield’s turn to fightback, Sara Degooye pulling it back to 3-2 five minutes later. Molly Peters scoring to see Enfield level it at 3-3 with 15 minutes left. The winning goal coming 3 minutes from the end of normal play, Roxanne Lee-Stewart with Southampton’s 4th and winning goal.

  The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup has been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-

Billericay Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies

Cambridge United Women v Leyton Orient WFC

QPR Women v Loughborough Foxes Women

Oxford United Women v Crawley Wasps Ladies

Larkhall Athletic Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Southampton Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies

Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

FAWNL Plate

In the FAWNL Plate 1st Round, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women were away to Poole Town Ladies from South West Division One. The higher league side proving too strong, Katie James putting Portsmouth into the lead inside 10 minutes. Carla Perkins adding a 4 minute brace with Eilidh Currie making it 4-0 to Portsmouth midway through the 1st half. More goals coming for the visitors 2nd half, Rachel Panting striking early going on to complete a hat-trick. Hannah Geer also scoring with Perkins also adding a 3rd goal to complete her own hat-trick a 9-0 victory seeing Portsmouth progress.

The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate has also been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-

Maidenhead United Ladies v Denham United Ladies

Keynsham Town Ladies or Southampton Saints v Portsmouth FC Women

Brislington Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Actonians Ladies v Chesham United Ladies

Gillingham FC Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Norwich City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

Ipswich Town Women v C&K Basildon Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

 A thriller for the neutral at the top of South East Division One on Sunday with 3rd placed Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. An early goal for Jennifer Laidlaw along with a goal for Sara Lopez-Ezzahiri for Actonians in the 1st half they found themselves trailing however with Billericay on target for 3 goals up the other end the visitors adding a 4th goal 2nd half, Actonians hit back to earn a point with Enya Collins and Carla Williams striking to see the game finish 4-4. Billericay’s 100% winning start coming to an end the point nevertheless enough to put the into top position with Crawley Wasps in cup action at the weekend.

   Teams clustering below with just 2 points between 4th and 10th in the South East Division One table. Stevenage Ladies moving up into the top half of the table following their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday coming on the road away to Norwich City Ladies, goals from Shona Chitate and Ashleigh Deacon seeing Stevenage hold a 2-0 advantage at half-time. Norwich saw a penalty saved in the 2nd half before pulling a goal back with Laura Thacker making it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the 2-1 win.

   A first league win of the season in South East Division One for bottom side Luton Town Ladies. At home on Sunday taking on Ipswich Town Ladies. The visitors taking the lead however Paige Wakefield putting Ipswich in front. Dionne Manning scoring a brace brought Luton back on level terms then gave them the lead. Jess McKay scoring to make in 3-1 and see Luton collect their 1st league points of the season.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 02/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd September

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

  The sunny weather returning at the start of September, the FAWNL takes a weekend off from the league as all it’s member clubs face-off in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The victors going on to play for the Cup proper the losing sides going on to contest the Plate.

  15 of those ties featuring clubs playing in the Southern Premier Division or South East Division One on Sunday. Plenty of goals scored too. Billericay Town Ladies newcomers to the FAWNL the biggest winners as they scored double figures to progress to the Cup proper winning at home to South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Ladies. Karissa Rodney and Samantha Pittock both scoring a hat-trick each for Billericay. Jay Blackie bagged herself a brace, with a goal each for Zoe Rushen and Hayley Piggott in a 10-1 demolition

  Crawley Wasps Ladies newcomers to FAWNL South East Division One with Billericay Town Ladies were also big winners in the Determining Round, taking on Ipswich Town Women at home for the 2nd time in 2 weeks having beaten the Suffolk side 5-1 on the opening day of the season. Sian Heather setting the ball rolling with the opening goal for Crawley in the 14th minute. Kemina Webber and Megan Stow scoring within 3 minutes of each other mid-way through the first half to put the hosts 3-0, Faye Rabson and Webber with her 2nd of the match adding a further 2 goals late in the first period to put Crawley in full control of the game with a 5-0 half-time lead. Closing in on the final quarter hour of the game Charlotte Cooper scored to make it 6-0, with Naomi Cole and Stow with her 2nd of the game scoring at the death the seal an 8-0 win.

  It was the East Anglian derby on Sunday the men’s sides meeting at Portman Road, Ipswich Town Women suffering a heavy defeat their East Anglian rivals Norwich City Ladies fared little better away to Southern Premier Division side Coventry United Ladies. Amy Wathan a  new signing for Coventry from Yeovil Town Ladies lobbed the keeper on 9 minutes to score her first goal for the club.  Wathan adding a 2nd goal heading the ball in to make it 2-0 with Amber Hughes on hand to make it 3-0 soon after. A 3-0 advantage at half-time. Jade Brooks getting amongst the goals to make it 4-0 in the 2nd half, Wathan went on to score her 3rd and complete a hat-trick. Hughes grabbing another goal, Marie Gauntlett also getting her name on the score sheet at the final whistle to send Coventry on into the Cup proper with a 7-0 victory.

  Southern Premier Division joint leaders, Loughborough Foxes Women continued their fine start to the season with a home win over South East Division One side, Denham United Ladies on Sunday to progress to the opening round of the FAWNL Cup. Eva Rogers scoring the goal midway through the first period to hand Loughborough the lead at half-time. Laura Dexter made it 2-0 just after the restart. Charlotte Cooper with her 4th goal of the season scoring to make it 3-0 in the final 20 minutes. Shauna Chambers also getting a goal for Loughborough to see them win 4-0.

  The FAWNL Cup Determining Round is were this Sunday’s action came from on Women’s Football East a trip to Mildenhall Town FC the home of Cambridge United WFC to see the South East Division One side take on Southern Premier Division side C&K Basildon Ladies. A much changed line-up for last season’s Southern Premier Division runner’s up a new era at the club a squad made up largely of last season Southern/South East Reserves league champions. Cambridge have several new signings themselves and hit the ground running a high tempo game right from the start, the hosts creating chances finding space the goal coming in the 20th minute to put Cambridge into the lead. Amber Cantwell’s superb pass forwards finding captain Kelly Blanchflower in space on the right she shot from the top of the area sending the ball over the keeper to score.

Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard

  1-0 the advantage at the break, C&K Basildon pressed looking for a reply Cambridge you felt needed a 2nd goal and it came early on with club captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt nodding the ball in from close range from a corner to make it 2-0 with her 2nd goal of the season. Space opening up as C&K Basildon searched for a reply Danielle Sillitoe coming closest with a long range strike that struck the upright. Cambridge having further chances too winning the game 2-0. For the full match report click on the following link https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-343/

Portsmouth FC Women leading the Southern Premier Division were at home in the Determining Round taking on another side with a winning start to the season local rivals Chichester City Ladies. Helen Ogle with the goal in the opening minute to put the visitors into the lead. Shannon Albuery bringing the scores level for Portsmouth with 7 minutes left to play in the first half. Chichester restoring their lead before the half-time whistle as Jade Widdows found the back of the net. A 2nd half brace for Chloe Melton putting Chichester into a strong position leading 4-1 going into the final quarter hour. Sarah Eadon pulling it back to 4-2 with five minutes left, not enough Portsmouth entering the FAWNL Plate.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies met fellow promoted side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies away from home in the Southern Premier Division, Plymouth winning the encounter 4-3. Now the sides met again 2 weeks later in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, Milton Keynes Dons making the long trip down to the South West. Natasha Knapman who scored all 4 of Plymouth’s goal in their opening day victory set the ball rolling putting Plymouth into the lead on 5 minutes. Amber Pollock doubling the lead midway through the first half a goal from Kayley Lane in the closing minute of the first half putting Plymouth into a 3-0 lead. Milton Keynes Dons responded early 2nd half to bring it back to 3-1. Rebecca Dandridge restoring Plymouth’s 3 goal cushion within a matter of minutes. Milton Keynes Dons once again pulling a goal back on 64 minutes it wasn’t enough as Plymouth secured the win. Kerry Newman and Kim Farrow with the Milton Keynes Dons goals.

A first victory of the season for Queens Park Rangers Women as they won at home in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup against fellow Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday. Courtney Ward-Chambers giving QPR the lead 20 minutes into the match. Leading 1-0 Sue Kumaning struck to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes left to play. Gillingham pulling it back to 2-1 straight away the nerves weren’t settled until the closing minute with Ward-Chambers on target for her 2nd of the game to secure a 3-1 win.

  Ellie Noble scored two fantastic goals in each half for Oxford United Women to see theCardiff  Southern Premier Division side through to the FAWNL Cup proper on Sunday were away taking on South East Division One side Actonians Ladies who have now started the season with three losses. Good news though as last season’s top scorer Alessandra Barreca was back with a goal in the closing minutes to pull Actonians back into the match in the final 5 minutes, Oxford going on to win 2-1.

  A 2-1 away victory too for Watford FC Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side taking on South West Division One side Poole Town Ladies. The score 1-1 at half-time, Faye Rolfe-Hawkins on target with the goal for Poole. Linda Afuakwah getting Watford’s goal. It was unfortunately an own goal that settled the match second half in favour of Watford.

   Cardiff City Ladies from the Southern Premier Division were away to South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. Goals from Cori Williams, Nadia Lawrence and Kelly Issac in the opening 22 minutes putting Cardiff well on the way to victory Grace Horrell adding a 4th goal to Cardiff’s tally early in the 2nd half as the welsh side went on to win the tie 4-1.

   South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled down to the South Coast on Sunday to play South West Division One side Southampton Saints in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The sides heading for extra-time with the score still 0-0 heading into the final five minutes, captain Jess Trimnell grabbing the winning goal for AFC Wimbledon with 3 minutes left on the clock to send the visitors home with the win.

   A tough start to the season for Luton Town Ladies losing their opening two league matches were hosting South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies this Sunday in the Determining Round. Annie Martin putting the visitors into the lead scoring with half an hour played. Luton pulled the scores level to go in 1-1 at half-time Nicola Henman with the goal. Amy Leach scored early in the 2nd half to put Cheltenham back in front with Martin scoring her 2nd of the game in the final 20 minutes to send Cheltenham into the FAWNL Cup proper.

South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC, were away in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday playing South West Division One side, Swindon Town Ladies. Goals from Lisa Fulgence, Hayley Barton and Danielle Griffiths putting Leyton Orient 3-0 up at half-time. Sophie Le Marchand added a 4th goal with Fulgence adding another goal in a 5-1 win. Abby Picton with the Swindon goal midway through the 2nd half.

  Last but not least another South West, South East Division One clash with Chesham United Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies in the Determining Round. The sides level at half-time the score 1-1. Tia Bailey with Enfield’s goal in the 25th minute. Sara Degooye adding a 2nd goal for Enfield with 15 minutes left the winning goals coming at the death for the visitors as Enfield ran out 4-2 winners in the end, Degooye with her 2nd of the game on 87 minutes, Molly Peters striking in the 90th minute. Niamh Euman and Gemma Fraser with the goals in each half for Chesham.

  The competition line-up settled, be it in the FAWNL Cup or Plate everyone still with a chance to contest for silverware. Details of both draws to announced shortly.

 

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v C&K Basildon Ladies

Sunday 2nd September

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 The sun has made a welcome return for the start of September as the FAWNL Cup begins with it’s traditional Determining Round all the FAWNL sides contesting the winners going on to compete for the Cup the losing sides going on to play for the Plate. A trip to Mildenhall Town FC this Sunday, the home of South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Premier Division side, C&K Basildon Ladies.

  The FAWNL the new name for the league known as the National League now as a pose the previously being called the FAWPL (Premier League) the format of the leagues still the same two ‘Premier’ Divisions, Northern and Southern and four regional Division One’s, South East, South West, Midlands and Northern. 72 sides in all. Alot of changes in regards to the teams within following the restructure and new licences issued to clubs joining the FAWSL. Player movement on the whole has been at it’s highest levels too this close season. 

Cambridge United WFC amongst those that have brought in several new faces which include Vicky Neal who has played for Watford FC Ladies whilst they were in FAWSL 2. Attacker Becky Shephard who has scored plenty of goals at every club she’s been at rising through the women’s football pyramid was at ERWFL Premier Division side, Royston Town Ladies last season. Kelly Bingham joins having played for the likes of Watford and MK Dons previously. Steph Gale has 8 years playing experience in the USA, was at Luton Town Ladies for a spell last season. Abi Davies enjoyed a good season with Histon Ladies last campaign. Emily Smith from Peterborough United Ladies and Albany Hodgson with King’s Lynn Town Ladies will also be looking to progress.

Cambridge’s reserves squad will be playing in the FAWNL Southern/South East Reserves league this coming season. The First team has started the season well unbeaten in their opening two league games a draw and a win against AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC who were both in the hunt for the title last season.

A whole new era for C&K Basildon Ladies, the Essex side making a rapid rise through the leagues, achieved their highest ever finish last season, runners-up to Charlton Athletic Women in the FAWPL Southern Premier Division. For all that time the club has been well supported financially by Peter King, whose passion for the side saw it become one of the leading forces for women’s football in Essex. Peter King has now retired and this signals a new beginning for C&K Basildon Ladies, not that Peter won’t be around.

  Gone is manager Steve Tilson and almost all of the 1st team squad from last season. A new side, players brought in the emphasis very much on youth. A good base for this is last season’s Development squad that won the FAWPL Southern/South East Reserves league last season. Les Thompson managing that side is joined Luke Pierre in managing the new look team. Alex Bailess handed the captain’s armband. Courtney Clarke is the latest addition to the squad the former Writtle forward adding a goal threat up front. Two big losses to begin the new league campaign against Portsmouth and Cardiff a team that has to hit the ground running alot to ask, but confidence is high within the squad that is getting to grips with what the management team is asking of them.

 The FAWNL Cup Determining Round a distraction from the league clubs have approached it in various ways in the past, with no one knocked at this stage, and ending up playing for the Plate is no less important, silverware is silverware just as Lewes FC Women and West Ham United Women.

  Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s match, been here several times before but for anyone who hasn’t it is distinctive for its sloped pitch from one goal mouth to the other. An immaculate playing surface too offering plenty of width. New dugouts a clubhouse beside the pitch. A contrast from last Sunday, raining everywhere, today the sun is high in a clear blue sky. 

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Kelly Bingham, Amy Howlett, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Emma Jenkins, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Holly Northfield, Faith Hewitt & Mollie Coupar.

C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Chelsea Hinz, Grace Gillard, Danielle Sillitoe, Nicola Moore, Alex Bailess (C), Madelyn Thomas, Sophie Rhodes, Gemma Abela, Katie Whitehead, Courtney Clarke & Ella Tooley. Subs – Jodie Osborne & Madelene Wright.

  It’s Cambridge to get the game underway attacking up the slope in the 1st half, Vicky Neal out and Emma Jenkins on the bench, Fran Gough and Abi Davies make up the right side of the defence for today’s game. Wearing their home colours amber shirts with black shorts and socks. Basildon have a few players unavailable for the match themselves, are kitted out in an all blue kit. The ball played up the left by Becky Shephard her through ball gives Basildon goalkeeper Chelsea Hinz an early claim inside her box.

  At the other end Cambridge goalkeeper, Savannah Smith is quick to race out of her box clear the threat as Basildon build with pace on the right Courtney Clarke looking to play the ball on for Ella Tooley trying to break in behind. The game has started at a quick pace Cambridge attack Gale coming to the halfway line to receive the ball tries to get Kelley Blanchflower away into the right channel, Hinz reaching the ball first. The ball fired into the Cambridge area from the left a deep cross, Kayleigh-Anne Burt clears for a throw on the left. Katie Whitehead and Gemma Abela combine from the throw-in Whitehead sending a cross into the area claimed by Smith.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Sophie Rhodes

  Despite the heat both sides are attacking the ball, pressing time to settle at a premium, Nicola Moore breaking up a Cambridge forward move the ball played out to Whitehead on the left, her pass forwards cutting open the Cambridge defence no one there to attack the ball as Fran Gough sweeps the ball away. A hopeful effort from Alex Bailess a long way out on the left side falls wide of Smith’s far post.

C&K Basildon Ladies captain, Alex Bailess

  Davies with a great ball forwards causes problems for the Basildon defence as Steph Gale strong outwits her marker and getting free for a shot on the edge of the box can’t open up her body enough to curl the ball in on target as it spins out of play for a goalkick. Cambridge are beginning to build some momentum Davies able to get ahead of the attackers to put a cross in sees her initial effort blocked by Grace Gillard the ball coming back out to Amy Howlett wide on the wing a dangerous ball flighted high into the box, Hinz is able to claim it high without challenge on her goal line.

Basildon have tried it a couple of times already and this time it almost comes off as they build on the right Clarke deeper playing the ball through for Tooley running clear can reach it just before the onrushing Smith can close her down outside the area, lobbing the keeper is always a heart-stopping moment when the ball goes over the keeper, turning though Smith sees Tooley’s effort sail over her crossbar.

Kelly Bingham is reading the game well in the middle of the park, Basildon are looking to attack quickly the midfielder breaking up play setting Cambridge up for an attack of their own. The ball played forwards is retrieved by Gale on the touchline left side of the area, time to place her cross Blanchflower is making a good near post run, the ball coming into her, closely marked by Gillard the Basildon defender does brilliantly to deny the chance.

  Blanchflower and Gale are looking a threat up top for Cambridge linking up well both searching for pockets of space to run into, combine on the right as they bring the ball forwards a one two on the corner of the area Gale’s cross in sliced lands in the side netting. Clarke hasn’t had much opportunity to get into the box for Basildon early on does so as the visitors have a throw in the left the cross fired into her left side a good first touch to evade her marker half a yard for a shot on target but straight down Smith’s throat.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell

  Now my handwriting is abysmal at the best of times but today it’s suffering badly no sooner has one attack finished the ball is down the other end, high tempo Cambridge get a corner, Amber Cantwell over the ball a great delivery long dropping at the far post Gale I think gets something on the ball to divert it goalwards from inside the six yard box Basildon though have numbers back somehow they keep the ball out. Basildon break on the left, Whitehead with Tooley inside her have Davies outnumbered the right back reading the situation perfectly to cut it Whitehead’s intended through ball. A free-kick almost in the corner right side for Basildon the ball stood up across goal Smith goes to glove it away misses as does Clarke jumping unmarked behind her.

   GOAL! 20 minutes played and Cambridge take the lead it’s Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park with a fantastic diagonal pass to send Blanchflower clear on the right shooting from the top of the area sends the ball up over Hinz to drop into the back of the net 1-0.

Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard

   Basildon press the ball Madelyn Thomas getting clear in the middle to play the ball on for Tooley in attack 25 yards from goal Abela is close by given the ball she takes on the shot a curling effort that falls wide of the goalpost. Cambridge are looking the stronger of the two sides Shephard, Cantwell and Howlett through the middle all looking to support Blanchflower and Gale in attack. Cantwell drifting into space on the right sees her cross deflect of Gillard favourably for Hinz to claim in the box. 

  Howlett with a diagonal ball out to Shephard on the left on with the ball swings in a cross Blanchflower attacking it far post her header downwards taking the ball wide of the upright. Bailess comes left to intercept as Blanchflower looks to run clear on the right. Cambridge press the attack Shephard’s cross almost headed in off a Basildon head as the clearance is made but an offside flag would have saved the day. 

  Bingham bringing the ball on looks to combine with Blanchflower and Gale, Basildon getting numbers back, as Moore clears the ball. Gillard defends well nipping in between Blanchflower and Gale on the right as they look to get into the area. A few tackles coming in but nothing malicious such is the high tempo of the contest. Howlett sliding in on Bailess one such example but little complaint from either side. 

Tackles, Cambridge’s Amy Howlett slides in to win the ball from Alex Bailess

  Cantwell with an ambitious effort all of 40 yards out perhaps intended for Gale left of the D the striker dummies letting the ball run on towards goal, Hinz though has time to set herself to gather cleanly inside her six yard box. Cantwell is upended inside the Basildon half top of the circle picks herself up to take a god delivery into the box Cambridge have runners one connects with the ball Blanchflower I think but the effort is over so she might say it was somebody else.

  One last attack in the first half for Basildon Gillard getting down the left to support Whitehead, getting her return ball the full back sends a cross in deep towards Clarke, outside the area right of the D good control the attacker spins into the shot, her low effort seeing Smith produce an excellent save diving to her left to push the ball away from goal then scramble to smother the ball.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

  A narrow lead for the lower league side at the break, Cambridge go into the dressing room 1-0 to the good following Blanchflower’s 20th minute strike. Have been the better side pressing the ball all over the pitch ad finding space to exploit. Bingham breaking up attacks regularly in the middle. Basildon have worked hard themselves high tempo looking to get the ball into their attacking players whenever they can just haven’t found the room on the the wings Cambridge have. Still with such a narrow lead Basildon are far from out of it and you feel Cambridge need another goal to press home their advantage.

 

 Needed to retreat to the shade 2nd half or risk becoming a lobster so to the stands on the opposite side, sheltering from the rain last Sunday I suppose I shouldn’t complain. No changes for either side during the interval, Basildon to get thing’s underway attacking up the slope. The visitors making ground on the left Whitehead getting a throw in. Whitehead does well to get a cross into the area high at the far post Burt gets her head on it and knocking the ball up does well defensively as Clarke puts pressure on her getting the ball out to Shephard to launch clear.

 Strength shown by Blanchflower in attack as play s stretched Basildon players caught up-field as the ball is driven forwards at pace along the ground 25 yards out robs the Basildon defence and heads for goal left side Hinz comes to close the angle sliding saves with her legs as Blanchflower unleashes a shot saved the rebound comes to Gale central, little time to adjust sends her effort over.

C&K Basildon Ladies goalkeeper, Chelsea Hinz

A free-kick for the home side as Bennett is fouled coming forwards, wide on the left Shephard rises to head the ball down top of the area, on for Gale, she can’t shake off Bailess as she aims to take a shot from the top of the area, the Basildon captain having none of it. Is a big pitch and with so much put into the contest first half more space is opening up. Clarke strong on the right side for Basildon tries to power her way forwards Bingham getting across to support Bennett and Burt.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas, looks to get away from Cambridge’s Abi Davies

Whitehead attacking left side has a throw moves into the area herself as the cross is played into her tries to drag the ball under her feet turn into a shot Cambridge defend close quarters the ball coming to Thomas at the top of the D, takes on the shot slices her effort wide across the Cambridge goal. Smith is called into action racing out to close Tooley down on the right side of her box as the attacker looks to burst in on Clarke’s forward pass, the goalkeeper sliding in to make the vital touch. Gale finds herself free on the right space to run into fires in a dangerous ball full of pace across the Basildon goal, Blanchflower attacking it but excellent defending from Moore the ball out for a corner.

Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Savannah Smith

GOAL! Cambridge get the goal they needed taking a 2-0 lead in the match 10 minutes into the 2nd the ball to be played in from the left into a crowded six yard box. Gale central gets her head on the ball turns it goalwards the ball is scrambled off the line but far from safety as players from both sides go for it the ball popping up kindly for Burt at the near post, Cambridge United’s club captain heading home from close range for her 2nd goal of the season.

The scorer of Cambridge United WFC’s 2nd goal. Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Cambridge are looking strong in attack Shephard bringing the ball on down the left plays the ball inside to Blanchflower, twice she takes on the shot, both times the Basildon defence block. A corner won taken short up the line the ball swung into the area Hinz claims it well under pressure as Burt closes her down at the near post. Davies sends the ball out to Gale moving right coming inside the attack the area Moore stands up well against her to win the ball. Cambridge are enjoying a dominant spell Basildon have let their heads drop a little.

Gough defends inside her area as Clarke coming left with the ball looks to play Whitehead on on goal. Getting forwards down the left Shephard is tackled b Rhodes before she can line up the cross. Howlett comes forwards with the ball for Cambridge into space before setting up Blanchflower for a shot inside the box coming in from the right, Hinz saving well at her near post conceding the corner, a long delivery from the right goes all the way out to the left before being played back in towards the near post Hinz running in to catch the ball low.

Basildon keep attacking when they can get the ball forwards, Clarke looking the most likely to make something happen as she and Tooley drift across to the left side of the Cambridge area as Whitehead surges forwards with the ball at her feet on the left her pass inside finding Clarke positioned just outside the area, she aims to set up Tooley for a shot, Cantwell back in the box defending intercepts launching the ball out of the ground for what must be the dozenth time. (was Cantwell every time mind you).

 Cambridge make the first change of the game, Gale the player coming off, Mollie Coupar the player coming on Shephard switching to the right. Clarke coming deeper for the ball powers on through the middle moving left the pass played on for Whitehead playing off the shoulder of Davies at right back strong cuts inside and despite being challenged gets a shot away from the top of the area her low drive held by Smith. Bailess takes on a very ambitious lob from distance with Smith well off her line and backpedalling Smith isn’t sure where its going to land until it lands behind her goal.

Cambridge’s Abi Davies with C&K Basildon’s Katie Whitehead

  Gillard gets her head on the ball as Howlett runs into the space vacated by Shephard on the right as she takes the ball inside before laying it off for Blanchflower who has seen Howlett’s run. A vital header by the defender. Cambridge are getting a little sloppy giving the ball away Basildon are pushing on are leaving space in behind now but can sense they might get a goal back. The visitors with a free-kick wide on the right players forwards into the box, Tooley near post the target Burt defending well for Cambridge. 

  Basildon hit the woodwork a fantastic strike from distance on the right side as Thomas allowed time on the ball lays the pass across the Sillitoe on the right hits it well racing in across the Cambridge goal throwing herself at it Smith is beaten, the ball cannoning off the woodwork. Basildon press the ball high up the pitch a free-kick won on the left 30 yards from goal a chance for Abela to play it in the delivery long to the far post is unchallenged runs out of play. 

 With Basildon attacking in force as the game nears the end Cambridge have the opportunity to hit them on the counter the ball won on the left played on for Coupar making a run into the area gets her shot up over the keeper as she comes sliding in to close her down, the attempt fired over the bar. A 2nd change for Cambridge Howlett the player coming off, on comes Gabrielle Whitehurst into the midfield. 

C&K Basildon Ladies, Courtney Clarke

  Clarke on the ball right side takes on the shot from all of 30 yards her effort bouncing harmlessly wide of the Cambridge goal. Clarke with energy to take on the Cambridge defence late on in the match fires a cross in from the top of the area a favourable deflection off a Cambridge defender almost sends it into the path of Whitehead clear at the far post but she cannot get a touch on the ball. One last effort to pull a goal back Basildon pushing Cambridge back Bennett is adjudged to have handled the ball (just) outside the area central inside the D the ball is placed Clarke on it goes for goal on target Smith is right behind it.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 C&K Basildon Ladies

  2-0 win for Cambridge they advance to enter the FAWNL Cup proper C&K Basildon will now contest for the Plate. A fast paced game especially first half, everyone pressing the ball little time given in possession affected the quality somewhat but nevertheless highly entertaining. I watch the game once and can pick the tempo right up again with my notes it felt like I was writing this at a higher tempo too. Cambridge were the better side deserved the win but certainly needed the 2nd goal. Basildon never lost faith kept attacking rather than settle deep and defend at all costs credit to them, will grow as a team. Need to get a win under their belts to bolster the confidence. Cambridge  

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Picking today’s  Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is a relatively straight forwards affair looked good in attack players getting forwards to support Gale and Blanchflower. It was central midfield however where they had their linchpin new signing Kelly Bingham breaking up a tremendous amount of Basildon attacks which ultimately prevented the visitors getting forwards with the numbers they would have liked.

  Am enjoying the start to the season another enjoyable match report to write-up. My thanks to both sides for the team details and Les Thompson and Luke Pierre of C&K Basildon Ladies for taking the time to chat before the match.