Category Archives: FAWNL Midlands Division One

Match Report – Peterborough United Women v Solihull Moors Women

Sunday 9th April

FAWNL Midlands Division One

Down in Essex last Sunday for the Women’s Trophy Final, heading the opposite this Easter Sunday, west along the A17 to watch a game from FAWNL Midlands Division One with Peterborough United Women looking to finish strong pushing for a top 3 finish taking on Solihull Moors Women.

 Stourbridge FC Women looking all but certain to win the title 10 points clear with 4 games left to play. The battle to finish runners-up a much different story, with 5 points separating the teams currently placed 2nd to 5th, Peterborough United Women firmly involved currently fifth taking on Solihull Moors Women 3 points back in 7th who will have a large part to play in determining the final positions with trips to 3rd placed Sporting Khalsa Women and 4th placed Northampton Town Women to come.

 Peterborough United Women promoted to the FAWNL last season, with great connection with Peterborough United FC have been growing rapidly over the past few season to emerge as the regions strongest side. Finishing 8th in their debut season, playing at Peterborough’s Training Academy, with a growing fanbase a new home was needed with more capacity. Have moved to Bourne FC’s Abbey Lawn Stadium and with great support and marketing has certainly proved effective with crowds of over 300 a regular occurrence now.

  Assembling a strong squad, with captain Keir Perkins recently scoring her 150th goal for the club leading the attack. Perkins with 18 goals so far this season with Tara Kirk up front alongside her firing in the goal too. A season of two halves to some degree getting off to a reasonable start with 3 wins in their opening 5 games a lull towards the end of September saw the club picking up just 2 points from the next 4. A long pause till their next league match with a run of cup matches which included getting all the way to the 3rd Round of the FA Cup where they were to narrowly lose to Championship side Durham FC Women 1-0. Resuming league action in January went on a run of 5 straight wins to push them up the table and have remained in contention for a top 3 finish since.

  The last time I saw Solihull in action was way back in 2016 in the Supporting Women’s Football Blog days (can still find the blog click on the link at the top of the page) Back then they were still Solihull Ladies just joining with Solihull Moors FC. Have been an established side in the FAWNL since in first became the FAWPL nearly 10 years ago. Becky Knight their leading goal scorer this season netting 13 goals so far with Lyndsey Ross-Baker on 9 and captain Zoe Creasey scoring 7. 

  Solihull’s season in contrast to their opponents losing just 0nce in their  opening league matches before like Peterborough getting bogged down in cup competitions to see out the year. Also reaching the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup losing 5-2 at home to AFC Fylde. Back to back wins upon their return to lead action well placed in the table have since been on a poor with just one win in their last 8, that coming at home against Peterborough winning 4-0 which will give them confidence going into todays match, just 3 points back a positive run in could see Solihull getting back into the mix.

Bourne FC’s Abbey Lawn Stadium the venue for todays game no parking in the ground but plenty close by and the option to use the nearby M&S carpark (my option) only a short walk from the ground entering in one corner the clubhouse behind the main stand running along one side of the grass pitch with standing viewing all round. A kitchen hatch open serving hot drinks and pies, with a barbeque selling burgers sausages and chips another option. A beautiful day on Easter Sunday dry, bright and sunny the pitch a good size sloping a little. 

Peterborough United Women

 Peterborough United Women starting XI – Neive Corry. Evie Driscoll-King, Elie York, Niamh Connor, Lucie Mugridge, Jess Evans, Stacey McConville, Cassie Steward, Megan Lawlor, Keir Perkins (C) & Tara Kirk. Subs – Kayleigh Aylmer, Taylor Dean, Edyn Osker, Rachel Lawrence & Elloise Copson.

Solihull Moors Women

 Solihull Moors Women starting XI – Freya Upson, Ellie Gibb, Hannah Snape, Abby Jackson, Jenna Roberts, Zoe Creaney (C), Demi Walker, Tiana Russell-Cartwright, Lyndsey Ross-Baker, Eva Rogers & Becky Knight. Subs – Charlotte Taylor, Emmalee Hornsby, Harley Savage, Katie Jamieson & Amber Dawns.

Captains Keir Perkins and Zoe Creaney with today’s match officials

Ellie York making her debut for Peterborough at right back, with the hosts to kick-off the 1st half wearing blue coloured shirts with navy blue shorts and white socks. Solihull lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with white coloured shorts. The ball played back into the middle send to the right for York, Becky Knight rushing in to put pressure on the ball hastily put across to the left with Evie Driscoll-King launching it forwards up the line for captain Keir Perkins to attack, Ellie Gibbs at full back dealing with the threat for Solihull out for a throw.

  Peterborough getting the ball down off the throw deep on the left working a cross low into the near post, Solihull goalkeeper Freya Upson coming out to lay claim to the ball. Solihull defending at the back with and opening on the left the ball sent upfield for Lyndsey Ross-Baker on the wing gets inside Yorke as she makes the challenge 25 yards out, Lucie Mugridge getting a toe into take the ball away from her rolls on for Solihull captain Zoe Creaney central looks to clip a looping ball in towards goal falls wide of the right post.

Lucie Mugridge clearing the ball for Peterborough

   Both sides snapping into one another looking to get hold of the ball neither side settling early on a series of throws over by the main stand. Jenna Roberts with the headed clearance top of her area as Peterborough get forwards well on the left numbers up the ball drops to Cassie Stewards wide attempts to thread a pass through for Tara Kirk to break in behind, Upson racing out quickly to slide in thwart the move.

  Solihull come on up their right Gibbs feeding the ball on for Tiana Russell-Cartwright, pace to travel up the wing looking to come inside tackled by Driscoll-King. The ball popping about Peterborough get it forwards into Kirk central looks to pay in Megan Lawlor attacking right side, Hannah Snape cutting the ball out for Solihull. The visitors counter up the right Russell-Cartwright with the looping cross into the six yard box, Knight up well to knock the ball down aiming to put it inside the far post, York in the way blocking well for Peterborough. 

 An even start with Solihull frustrating Peterborough working hard to break up play get on right side Knight combining with Russell-Cartwright, Driscoll-King defending the ball going out for a throw. Ross-Baker finding space on the left racing on with the ball attempting to put it through into the box for Knight pulling off the right channel, Neive Corry, in goal for Peterborough getting to it first.

Solihull’s Abby Jackson

  Peterborough encouraging one another to get going attacking down the left the cross put in by Perkins, met by kirk six yards out on the half volley, Upson with a great save down smartly to beat the ball away to the left, the pressure still on as Peterborough push up the diagonal ball into the area dropping far post for Lawlor under challenge gets her head to it but not enough to beat Upson across to cover the post catching high. Peterborough livening up after tentative start Perkins strong with the ball on the left getting down the line to win a corner. 

  Solihull bringing the ball on up the right Roberts-Cartwright playing it inside the pass cut out comes to Gibbs in space 40 yards out takes the opportunity to strike her effort over the bar. Creaney trying to find her range in the centre on the park with both Russell-Cartwright and Ross-Baker providing good outlets. Russell-Cartwright found on the right drives up the line her low cross driven into the area intercepted by Niamh Conner at the back for Peterborough. 

  Snape coming on up the left for Solihull sends the ball into Eva Rogers looking to turn into the shot left of the D, Mugridge racing in to charge down her attempt jumping across her path Rogers, stabbing her half volley wide of the near post. A free-kick won wide left for the visitors Snape with a chance to play the ball into the box, comes in high, Corry can see it safely land in the side netting. Abby Jackson over another free-kick for Solihull on half way taken short good work from Kirk for Peterborough pressing the ball forcing it to be played all the way back to the keeper.

  Kirk put through on goal central as the ball is played back over the top from a rushed clearance, into the D leaning back as she goes to shoot, struck goalwards Upson with a fine save diving to her left to push the ball away. Peterborough looking strong attacking on the left numbers up Perkins pulling wide Jess Evans with the ball putting the pass into Kirk’s path left top of the area, Upson racing out diving in to save at the attackers feet, the ball loose the keeper now out of position the goal attempt comes in drops wide of the mark.

Peterborough’s Tara Kirk about to be arrested by Solihull’s Demi Walker and Jenna Roberts

   Connor doing well at the back defending on Russell-Cartwright as she looks to get onto the ball inside the box from the right out for a goal kick. The long diagonal ball put out to Lawlor pressing up on the right corner of the box tries to take it on the volley, doesn’t catch it, Snape getting back at her to defend for Solihull. Players up around the top of the box as Solihull win another free-kick over half way Jackson’s ball up intercepted by Steward the break on but the passes rushed breaks down. 

  GOAL! Peterborough surge down the left wing the ball played inside to Perkins 25 yards out gets the ball onto her right foot and strikes it beautifully to soar over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0 Peterborough taking the lead midway through the first half. 

Peterborough captain, Keir Perkins opens the scoring

  Perkins pressing on down the left in attack a high cross lifted into the near post Lawlor looking to get under it well defended by Snape, a free-kick awarded to Solihull. Peterborough turning the screw coming on well Kirk with the ball central driving on riding a challenge taking the ball left into the box all the way to the by-line squeezing a cross into the six yard box, Evans attacking it, Snape blocking for Solihull. 

  Rogers taking the ball on from Demi Walker through the middle, pushing towards the box, York with the challenge for Peterborough. Steward fouling Creaney in halfway Solihull sending players up to the top of the area the ball lifted forwards, Stacey McConville dealing with it for the hosts. Rogers with a great crossfield pass to find Ross-Baker on the move up Solihull’s left Creaney up with play attempts the one two with her outside the box, looking for the return pass, read by Mugridge the defender sliding on to take the ball away from the winger. A corner for Solihull on the left through the six yard box taking a nick behind another corner awarded on the right, an in swinger curls over the bar.

Solihull captain, Zoe Creaney

  Evans strong in the middle winning the ball for Peterborough allowing Steward to get forwards support the attackers, picked out by Kirk 25 yards out coming right plays the ball into Lawlor right, her touch taking her inside to shoot, put straight at the keeper. Kirk fouled on half way the ball played up to Perkins left side, Gibbs in close to defend the ball bouncing in behind Perkins racing to get it on the by-line her cross swerving to land on the roof of the net. 

 Russell-Cartwright out to Knight on the right the Solihull pair combining the cross lifted into the area headed clear by Conner. The ball helped on through the middle McConville and Steward into Kirk drives on Roberts tackling for Solihull. 

GOAL! Peterborough attacking down the left winning a corner kick, players forwards the ball swung in before the near post met brilliantly by Connor getting her head down twisting her body to drive the ball past the Solihull defence before anyone can react 2-0 

Niamh Connor (no3) with the near post header to double Peterborough’s lead

  Solihull look to find a response conceding a 2nd goal late in the first half Gibbs bringing the ball on up the right on for Roberts-Cartwright her cross whipped in Mugridge stretching to cut it out behind for the corner. Solihull’s inswinging corners real threat the ball curled in over Corry smashing down into the six yard box off the crossbar, skipping up before Snape trying to react up to try and head the ball but can’t get it on target. 

Solihull’s Hannah Snape

  Kirk with the bit between her teeth attacking on the left brought down, Lawlor on the set piece 20 yards out plenty in the box sends it out beyond the far post with Kirk free to head the ball down back across the six yard box, McConville throwing herself at it far post turning it behind. The game moving into stoppage time Solihull looking to get on with Creaney, Ross-Baker giving her a great option bursting forwards on the right, tries to pick her out wit the pass just a little to heavy giving Corry time to get out to ball collect. Solihull winning a late throw in the left as Mugridge slides in to defend as Snape gets forwards to support Ross-Baker on the left comes to nothing.

Half-time Peterborough United Women 2-0 Solihull Moors Women

  Peterborough with a 2 goal lead at the break coming on well after a slow start not settling, picking up momentum getting players on well attacking down the left and through the middle. Perkins carrying a threat out wide scoring a fine goal midway through the first half to go along way to settling Peterborough down looking strong after that coming on well players making runs through the middle. Solihull with a couple of good chances to get a goal themselves with Freya Upson making some good saves. Peterborough doubling their lead from a corner late in the 1st half Connor with a great headed goal. Solihull hitting the woodwork late in the half, frustrated with a few decisions and not quite finding their mark with their passes looking to use the flanks. 2-0 the score, same as last weekend the next goal can often prove crucial, Peterborough would like the comfort of a 3rd goal, Solihull score and their back in it.

  No changes at the break for either side, have managed to put my bag down on an ant’s nest so goodness how many of them are coming back to Norfolk with me! Solihull to get the 2nd half underway. Back into Walker in midfield Kirk rushing in to closer the keeper down as the ball is played back to her the clearance rushed, the ball contested in the middle. Creaney getting hold of it taking it on well lifting it over the defence catches everyone flat footed giving Peterborough the chance to regroup.

Tara Kirk with Jenna Roberts

  Kirk and Perkins pressurising the Solihull defence off a throw playing the ball between them Perkins on the by-line trying the back heel to spin in behind doesn’t quite come off, goal kick. Peterborough quickly getting on the front foot at the start of the 2nd half. York doing well at the back for Peterborough as Snape sends the ball on for Ross-Baker up the left winning a free-kick. Solihull making a change bringing of Walker on comes Charlotte Taylor. 

Peterborough’s Jess Evans

  Peterborough send players up into the area winning a corner on the right. The ball sent long beyond the far post Evans up to head the ball, down into towards goal plenty of Solihull bodies to black and get it clear. Roberts back peddling goes down over her goalkeeper as Upson comes out to claim a high back through the middle, an awkward fall is down for a moment needing treatment but able to play on. Driscoll-King on the left forwards for Perkins up the line Roberts coming across in the cover stretching as she makes the challenge, another awkward fall. 

 Driscoll-King getting a throw in high on the left the ball finding it’s way into Kirk left of the D lays it back to Steward running across her central plays the pass across the D to pick out McConville 20 yards out strikes the show goalwards, may well have been going wide of the right post but Upson is across her line well to dive onto the ball.

Cassie Steward

  Peterborough winning the ball well, Evans competing in the middle. Solihull look to get on down the right with pace Gibbs on for Russell-Cartwright turns inside attempting the crossfield ball to release Ross-Baker on the left, Peterborough holding their line well however to catch her offside. 

Tiana Russell-Cartwright

  Connor winning the ball at the back pressing on into the middle coming out the better in a strong 50/50 challenge the put the ball on for Driscoll-King wide sent up to Perkins in attack, Roberts stretching getting hold of the ball to turn behind for a corner. That set-piece coming to nothing, Peterborough quickly regain the ball in the middle to go on and win another corner on the left. In by Lawlor across the face of goal, Connor leaping up can’t quite get her head on the ball.

Peterborough’s Jess Evans with Solihull’s Zoe Creaney

 Solihull making a double change Gibbs and Roberts coming off at the back, Amber Dawns and Emmalee Hornby coming on with instructions for the captain as the visitors look to make a few positional changes. Peterborough making their first change too Rachel Lawrence on replacing Lawlor on the hour. Connor has a long throw in her arsenal comes up on the right side to take dropped into McConville, 20 odd yards out to the right of goal, struck on the half volley low with pace, Upson with a fantastic save down smartly to deflect the ball away across the six yard box to far post bouncing Perkins after it can’t get a clean touch to put it back in out for a goal kick.

Russell-Cartwright cutting inside with the ball at her feet with a wild strike from distance flashed over the bar. Hornby taking the ball on looks to drive forwards through the middle Peterborough closing her down, The hosts counter the ball on through the middle into Lawrence 25 yards out right of the D, hits the shot angling on low, Upson with another vital save pushing the ball away to the right, Perkins out there onto the ball hooks a cross over the keeper to the far post Kirk rushing in with the swing of a leg can’t get a touch. 

Solihull goalkeeper, Freya Upson

  Solihull winning a free-kick wide on the left crossed into the area dealt with by Mugridge for Peterborough. Another change for the home side with McConville coming off to be replaced by Kayleigh Aylmer. Solihull come close to finding a goal off a long throw in the left the ball nodded on central comes to Rogers up well drives her header onto the crossbar.

Solihull’s Eva Rogers

 A moment of chaos ensues as Peterborough race up the other end appealing for a hand ball as the cross is cut out top of the area Solihull straight down the other end Corry out of her area to charge the ball down, Mugridge round on the cover clearing.

 

 Peterborough lively up on the left a corner won, whipped in across goal to the far post Driscoll-King with the low strike from close range, Upson there again with another superb save diving to her left to turn the ball around the post. From the corner on the right put in high Connor with the flick on near side, comes onto Driscoll-King quickly can’t react sends the ball wide. 15 minutes left on the clock both sides making a change, Harley Savage coming on in attack for Knight. Elloise Copson and Taylor Dean coming on for Peterborough in place of Steward and Yorke. Aylmer up to Perkins left into the box in a race with Dawns, Upson rushing out to save at her feet the ball knocked out to the left…

GOAL! Peterborough get players on in support as Solihull struggle to regroup the ball wide with Dean laying it on for York to put in across the top of the area Lawrence collecting central just inside firing a shot away straight at Upson can’t get her hands up quick enough as the ball deflects up over her into the back of the net 3-0. 

Rachel Lawrence congratulated after putting Peterborough into a 3 goal lead

Peterborough extending their lead with 12 minutes left to play. A frustrating afternoon for Solihull gets worse as worse as Russell-Cartwright is involved in a heavy collision with Connor as the defender comes into the back of her to win the ball, Russell-Cartwright down having taken a nasty blow to the head. The physio’s on, Jackson also down in the box for the visitors. Time taken as is right with a blow to the head Russell-Cartwright groggy. Helped off the pitch not risked Solihull make a change Katie Jamieson coming on A free-kick the outcome Dawns over it lifts the ball in towards the top of the area dealt with by the Peterborough defence. 

Solihull’s Amber Dawns

 Solihull giving it ago getting on left side the threaded pass finding Savage bursting into the box, Mugridge looking to get back at her lunging in to tackle getting the ball putting it behind for a corner kick. A good delivery from the left coming into Dawns on the penalty spot rising to head the ball, Corry with an excellent save throwing a glove up to turn the ball away.

Peterborough goalkeeper, Neive Corry

  Into the last 5 minutes Evans with the ball on through the middle helped onto Perkins top of the D her strike saved beat down by the keeper, Perkins after the rebound sends it wide. Perkins last action of the game as she comes off to be replaced by Edyn Osker. Creaney finding her range late on to get Ross-Baker in on the right to the by-line her cross flashed in Corry down sharply at her near post to push it away with Rogers running in clear central. 

Lyndsey Ross-Baker

  The clock ticking down into stoppage time Connor with a less than subtle challenge on Savage a free-kick won wide on the right. The box packed Peterborough winning the header. Creaney taking a painful blow to the midriff off Osker winning Solihull a free-kick at the death. Takes it herself the ball struck into the wall cleared. Peterborough winning to climb a place into 3rd, 2 points behind 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles who they travel to on the final day of the season both with 4 games left.

Full time Peterborough United Women 3-0 Solihull Moors Women

 Three goals and a clean sheet for Peterborough, ideal preparation for this weeks Northamptonshire Women’s Cup Final as they take on Northampton Town Women Development. An even start to the game Peterborough a little tentative both sides creating chances, got going midway through the 1st half with Keir Perkins opening the scoring. Freya Upson with some good saves before Niamh Connor headed home from a corner late in the half to double the lead. 2 goals up were quickly on top in the 2nd half, getting hold of the ball Upson again saving well the 3rd goal eventually coming in the 77th minute. Solihull frustrated didn’t get some decisions, had chances the woodwork struck twice just wasn’t to be.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as more often than not a tough one to make. Player performing well all over the pitch, putting in a shift. For Solihull, Freya Upson was outstanding despite the score line produced a number of excellent saves to keep her side in the game for a long period. Lyndsey Ross-Baker getting on well on the wing lacking support at times likewise Tiana Russell-Cartwright trying hard to make thing’s happen on the right. Peterborough were strong all across the pitch Keir Perkins in attack on the left a constant threat driving forwards and getting the ball into the box with a well struck goal to open the scoring. Niamh Connor at the back excellent to strong competitive getting in to tackle win the ball and cut out crosses. A great header to make it 2-0. A close run thing the award though goes to Jess Evans had a strong game in midfield going along way to set Solihull’s frustrations winning the ball and getting it back into the attacking players to pressure the defence.

  An enjoyable first trip to Abbey Lawn, is a nice stadium and set up with a crowd of 340 creating a great atmosphere. An entertaining game my thanks to every one for their assistance today, a busy week ahead with 3 cup finals to come the car keeps on racking up the miles.

by Darren Gilham

 

Match Report – Peterborough United Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Sunday 27th March

FAWNL Midlands Division One

A return to the league this Sunday with a trip west along the A47 to watch a game from FAWNL Midlands Division One. Peterborough United Women promoted to the FAWNL for the 1st time this season taking on 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles.

 A league not normally covered by Women’s Football East, Peterborough itself is with a number of clubs featuring across the various leagues. Is a hot bed for footballing talent with Peterborough United Women currently the leading club in the area.

Enjoying strong links with the men’s club playing in the EFL Championship. Peterborough United Women were pushing hard for promotion from the East Midlands Regional Premier Division only to be denied through the Covid pandemic bringing 2 seasons to an early finish, were awarded promotion this season as the FA expanded the sides above across the women’s football pyramid. A win on the opening day followed by successive draws proceeding a run of 5 straight defeats on the league seeing the club in trouble with 4 sides likely to be relegated reduced to 3 with withdrawal of Holwell Sports.

A change of management seeing Dan Lawlor taking on the 1st team. Results in 2022 much improved with the club turning a corner 3 straight wins pulling The Posh Women as they are also know away from the bottom 3. Are unbeaten at home so far in 2022 up to 7th in the table 9 points clear of the drop zone and with 5 games to go will be aiming to consolidate a midtable finish. Captain, Keir Perkins the leading goal scorer with 17 overall from 22 appearances whilst Jess Driscoll has 11 from 21 games.

Have fond memories of watching Doncaster Rovers Belles in my days supporting fellow WSL founding side Lincoln Ladies. Unfortunately both clubs were dealt some heavy blows as the top flight of women’s football tried to find it’s feet in those early years. A club with a long and rich history in the game the financial pressure saw the club lose it’s place in the what was WSL 2 then re-joining the FAWNL. Dropping down to tier 4 as the rebuilding process began, the Covid pandemic has hampered a quick return.

Lay 2nd in the Midlands Division One table with just 3 defeats from 18 played so far 9 points behind leaders Boldmere St Michaels who look strong to clinch the title. With 2 games in hands however Doncaster Rovers Belles can apply pressure in the run in while making sure they don’t get caught, by the new version of Lincoln City Women who are hot on their heels in 3rd. Jasmine Saxton their top scorer netting 18 goals overall so far from 23 appearances.

The idverde Training Ground the venue for today’s match the academy ground, boasting one all weather pitch with two grass pitches beyond. A small covered seated stand for spectators on one side. A decent size the clocks going forward this weekend, the weather pleasant all week staying great for this afternoon’s game some cloud around, but warm and bright with no chance of rain. 

Peterborough United Women

Peterborough United Women starting XI – Amy Butler, Kayleigh Aylmer, Niamh Connor, Natalie Hurst, Evie Driscoll-King, Cassie Steward, Elloise Copson, Jess Driscoll, Beatrix Borque,  Katie Steward & Kier Perkins (C). Subs – Sophie Powell, Hannah Hipwell, Katie Lowder & Destiny Makenjuola.

Doncaster Rovers Belles

Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI – Eleanor Sharpe, Jessica Andrew (C), Isabella Trevillion, Holly Housley, Charlotte Dinsdale, Sophie Scargill, Lauren Breen, Sophie Bell, Lindsey Tugby, Nadia Khan & Jasmine Saxton. Subs – Hannah McWilliams, Emily Cahill, Freya Rattenbury, Phoebe Sneddon & Jessica Price.

Peterborough’s Reserve side playing at the same time on one of the grass pitches beside the 3G taking on Coalville Town Women in the EMWRFL Division One South. Both games pausing for a minutes silence, on Mother’s Day in remembrance of all those who have lost their mother’s.

It’s Peterborough to get this afternoon’s game underway wearing  blue shirts with white sleeves, white shorts and blue socks. Doncaster lined up opposite wearing an all red kit with white horizontal piping. Played back into midfield passed out to right back Kayleigh Aylmer looks to get it up the wing charged down play spread to the left Beatrix Borque able to travel with the ball for Peterborough sends the ball on for striker and captain Kiers Perkins to hunt down, Charlotte Dinsdale getting across her seeing the ball back to her goalkeeper Eleanor Sharpe.

  Perkins nipping in to pressure the ball in the left corner as it is put on from a throw in winning Peterborough an early corner. The inswinging delivery headed clear by Doncaster at the near post. Peterborough quick to regain possession put back to corner taker Katie Steward coming back up the line on the left sends a dangerous ball into the six yard box Evie Driscoll-King stooping to head the ball down towards goal, Sharpe with a reflex save throw herself down to her left to keep it out, superb goalkeeper. An early chance of Peterborough to open the scoring.

Eleanor Sharpe with a superb save for Doncaster Rovers Belles early in the game

Doncaster snapping after the ball in the middle Sophie Scargill recently returning to the side after suffering an ACL injury putting it on for Lauren Breen clipped diagonally out to the right with Nadia Khan finding space in the right channel takes on the early strike cutting the angled shot high and wide of the near post. Tugby winning the ball in midfield she drives forwards  sending it out to Khan away on the right wing squares an inviting ball across Peterborough’s six yard box, cut out by the defence at the far post and cleared. A lively opening pace in attack from both sides.

Nadia Khan controlling the ball for Doncaster Rovers Belles

  The attackers looking to take the game on to their opponents Jess Driscoll on for Perkins she lifts it on for Katie Steward through the middle, Sharpe needs to come win the ball outside her box, just about gets their as she and Steward collide The loose ball regained by Peterborough wide left an attempt to find the empty net made the ball bouncing harmlessly wide of the near post Katie Steward down for a moment recently back herself after dislocating her thumb. Is okay to continue. 

Peterborough attacker, Katie Steward looking to get the better of Doncaster’s Charlotte Dinsdale

  Seen Amy Butler at two different clubs already this season, outfield and in goal. No 1 of Peterborough, needs to come racing out of her box to clear as Khan threatens to break into the box from the left. Cassie Steward busy in the middle for Peterborough in to tackle the ball played out to Borque on the left, looks to get on, Doncaster’s Isabella Trevillion in to challenge her the ball out for a throw. Pressure from Perkins on the throw bringing another corner.

Doncaster’s Isabella Trevillion

  Even start both sides pressing the ball well wanting to get it forwards with pace. Cassie Steward playing the ball on for Perkins in attack sends it out to the right with the full back coming on the cross sent in Perkins goes to head it’s Charlotte Dinsdale who wins it to head the ball on picked up by Tugby, Doncaster counter attack through the middle, Tugby racing on with the ball, on for Jasmine Saxton outside the D passes to Sophie Bell on the right wing held up gets it back to Tugby to as Peterborough get back in numbers to defend their box, right side Tugby puts it into Saxton’s find inside the area, looks to shift left and turn into the shot, Cassie Steward back to put in the blocking tackle.

Doncaster’s Lindsey Tugby challenging Peterborough’s Jess Driscoll

  Driscoll coming away clear with the ball at her feet through the middle for Peterborough has Katie Steward providing a run into the left channel, sends the pass into her feet looks clear to bear down on goal sends her shot wide of the post. A lively opening 10 minutes. Peterborough attack right Cassie Stewards up with Perkins and sister Katie. Doncaster captain, Jessica Andrew tackling the attack breaking down outside the box as Dinsdale clears it long looking for Khan. Breen and Tugby both looking to travel with the ball whenever Doncaster mount an attack the latter getting her shirt tugged by Driscoll winning a free-kick 30 yards out. 

Charlotte Dinsdale winning the ball at the back for Doncaster

The set-piece defended Peterborough are quickly on the attack play going right Cassie Steward with Aylmer up on the right, crossed in early no one gambling through the middle Sharpe can take the catch unopposed. Scargill on for Breen drives forwards out to the left plays the ball inside to Saxton inside the D, nods it down to the right, for a moment Bell on that side has an opening if she can reach the ball to charge into the box and take a shot, Borque though recovering well for Peterborough just gets their first to clear the ball. Breen finding gaps to run into with the ball sends it on for Khan running into the left corner, checks back up the pick before being brought down for the free-kick. Tugby over it curls a shot on the angle in towards goal, Butler with an easy claim. 

Doncaster midfielder, Sophie Scargill

  Butler starts to come to try and win the ball before Saxton as she is put through by Khan on the left, can’t get there is stranded as Saxton spots Bell available on the right, goes for it 20 yards out her first time effort curled over the bar. Katie Steward and Perkins work the ball well on the left side getting it squared central with Cassie Steward racing on from midfield, connects first time cutting her shot high away from goal. Peterborough giving it a go Driscoll tackling on for Perkins lays the ball to the right for Katie Steward her angled cross falling near post collected by Sharpe.

Kayleigh Aylmer

  Aylmer getting on with the ball right inside for Cassie Steward, plays it into Katie Steward outside the box she looks to find Perkins inside the D, Andrew and Dinsdale into challenge getting the ball clear to their left, Aylmer latching onto it a high ball clipped into the box, taken high by Sharpe. Breen gets on the move down the right side a powerful run as Bell sends the pass on for her looks to travel all the way to the by-line whip a cross in across the face of goal, Niamh Connor closing down tackling to see that doesn’t happen.

Peterborough’s Niamh Connor

  From the resulting throw in the ball in lifted into Trevillion 20 yards out right of the D, puts her foot through the strike, is charged down by Peterborough centre back, Natalie Hurst. Khan taking the ball on down the right, combines with Saxton the pair exchanging passes finding their way into the box wide of goal, Butler comes to smother the ball at Saxton’s feet. Khan looking dangerous running into the channels plays it infield for Breen outside the D, she is brought down, Doncaster with a set-piece in a dangerous position. Breen to take it goes for goal her shot curling wide of the far post.

Nadia Khan

  Midway through the 1st half has been a lively game so far. Doncaster mount an attack Breen on for Tugby sending it out to Khan free on the right, wraps her foot around the cross sending an inviting ball into the six yard box, headed clear by Driscoll-King. The visitors looking to pressure the ball higher get caught on the counter Driscoll taking it on through the middle threading it on for Perkins right of the D, Andrew getting across well to shield the ball as Sharpe comes to gather at her feet. 

One captain holding off the other, Kier Perkins with Jessica Andrew

  Aylmer right on Katie Steward down the line her cross angled in near side, Perkins the target, Sharpe snatching down first. Breen passing into Khan on the right Bell up with her in the corner, a cross working in dropping inside the six yard box, Butler claims well under pressure from Saxton. Peterborough with players up for a throw on the left, Driscoll is tackled the ball loose Trevillion playing it on for Saxton the visitors break the striker, picking out Khan making a right channel run shifting inside, Elloise Copson across with a well timed tackle get the ball Doncaster first to the loose ball 25 yards out the long range lob dropping wide of the far post.

  Borque takes the ball on down the left after good work from Cassie Steward to regain possession in the middle. Borque playing a diagonal ball into the area, Perkins going forward marked by Dinsdale who tackles the ball out to the left collected by Borque floated back in on the angle claimed safely by Sharpe. Housley getting forwards on the left for Doncaster checking back before being tackled by Aylmer the ball coming to Breen 25 yards out pulls her 25 yard  strike wide across goal. 

 Into the final 5 minutes of the first half, Driscoll battling for possession in the centre finding Borque on the left wing, Bell getting back at her challenging for Doncaster. Scargill with Breen work the ball on well through the middle before Driscoll-King intercepts the forward pass for Peterborough, Tugby on with the ball for Doncaster passes to Khan outside the area right of the D, shifts inside to shoot taking a deflection off an attempted block the ball skips up over Butler landing on top of her crossbar out for a corner kick.

Peterborough’s Cassie Steward

 Dinsdale winning the ball at the ball plays it forwards into Scargill through the middle plays it to the right for Saxton moving into the corner plays it up the line for Bell to lift a curling cross into the area, headed away by Hurst. One last attack for Peterborough with Cassie Steward winning the ball in the middle on for Katie Steward who looks to play it on for Perkins the through ball running behind her as she looks to go across to the right.  

Half-time Peterborough United Women 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

  An entertaining first half draws to a close with the sides goalless at the break. Has been a lively game Peterborough taking the game to Doncaster both sides looking to get on with the ball quickly, defences standing firm. Peterborough with a great opportunity to open the scoring inside the opening 2 minutes but for a smart save from Doncaster keeper, Eleanor Sharpe. Players on both sides with driving runs through the middle, defences dropping deep at times to limit opportunities inside the area. An intriguing contest will be interesting to see if both sides can keep it up 2nd half. 

Sophie Scargill with Cassie Steward

  A change for Doncaster at the break Emily Cahill on for Housley. No changes for Peterborough. Doncaster to get the 2nd half underway. The ball played long out to Khan racing on right side, Connor though can see it out for a goal kick. Scargill regaining possession in the middle finds Saxton on the right has Tugby up with her the pair looking to exchange passes on the wing come inside Hurst challenging the loose ball lifted back over the top finding Tugby offside. 

Driscoll continues to snap into the tackles winning possession in the middle for Peterborough sends the ball out to Aylmer on the right, drills a pass into Perkins inside the box, holds it up but can’t pick out a teammate as she is closed down by Dinsdale and Andrew. Doncaster are looking to take the game to Peterborough at the start of the 2nd half, Saxton with Tugby linking on the left, Hurst getting amongst them to tackle, Tugby on the loose ball attempting to lay it into Khan positioned inside the D, Driscoll-King winning it. 

Breen taking attack to Peterborough looks to batter her way through into the box, Hurst defending well up against her. Cassie Steward central winning the ball for Peterborough lays it forwards for Perkins, too much on it though as Sharpe comes running out of her area to kick upfield. Driscoll on the ball with a great pass to find Borque clear on the left, Bell though recovers well for Doncaster to get back at her and tackle a throw for the hosts in the corner  

 Perkins doing well to win a corner on the right as Copson plays the ball down the line. Peterborough regaining some momentum with a free-kick on the left put into the box Dinsdale up with the defensive header deflected behind for a corner. An infringement spotted by the referee in the six yard box seeing Doncaster regain possession. Tempers flaring up as Tugby and Driscoll clash the referee having words with the pair. A free-kick wide right for Peterborough, Aylmer delivering it long to the back stick knocked back in across goal, Sharpe grabbing it, with Driscoll-King flying in.

Doncaster striker, Jasmine Saxton

  A change for Peterborough with almost an hour played Katie Steward coming off for Hannah Hipwell who goes into midfield with Cassie Steward moving up top join Perkins in attack. The new strike force looking to combine on the right, Breen getting back to win the ball, takes it on down the left flanks coming inside is brought down somewhat clumsily by Driscoll winning a free-kick. Driscoll lucky not to pick up a yellow card. Andrew to play the set-piece up into the box cleared away from a throw on the right. 

Bell winning Doncaster a corner on the right, a great delivery into the six yard box dropping central Dinsdale connects her shot smashing back off the post then put behind for a corner on the left. Played long beyond the far post cleared out to the top of the area Andrew retrieves no space to shoot plays it to Bell inside the box right side blasts a shot goalwards her effort blocked. Doncaster pressing the advantage coming left the cross angled in cut out by Driscoll-King sliding in at the near post. The visitors pushing hard on the right the cross over everyone in the middle, Breen reclaims it beyond the far post turns back towards goal lifting her shot over the bar.

  Hipwell carrying the ball on through the middle finding Cassie Steward on the right, comes back inside before lifting a cross into the far post with the outside of her boot, Borque flying in can’t get a touch as the ball runs wide of the far post. Peterborough with a corner goes long to Hurst at the far post nods it back into the centre met by Perkins, is narrowly over the crossbar. Chances for both sides with no let up in the tempo. Steward on the right from a throw swivels to put a cross into the centre of the six yard box, too close to the keeper with Sharpe taking it as Perkins makes the run.

Peterborough’s Jess Driscoll

  Final balls not always finding their mark but this is more to good reading of the ball from both defences more than anything else. Bell winning Doncaster a corner on the right before it is taken however a change with a little over quarter an hour left, Khan coming off for Hannah McWilliams. Peterborough with a change too Borque off replaced by Katie Lowder. The corner swung in centrally, Andrew up well to meet it, her header directed wide of the far post.

   Breen has been upended several times during the match, Steward the latest to do so, earning herself a yellow card. The set-piece wide on the left lifted in towards the penalty spot put behind for a corner kick. The corner going through everyone attacking the far post. Doncaster with a 3rd change Scargill off for Jessica Price with 11 minutes left to play.  Steward with Perkins up on the left after the ball, Perkins back to Steward who shifts the ball between her feet before shooting on the angle her attempt wide across goal. 

 Both sides showing signs of nerves at the back as much as they want to score neither wants to concede so late in the game. Hurst is pulled back a free-kick wide right for Peterborough, Aylmer playing it into Steward inside the D lays it off of Driscoll is closed down quickly no room for a shot. Peterborough make a 3rd change Destiny Makenjuola on for Hurst. Lowder winning a poor kick out from the back goes forwards doesn’t get a clean strike away the ball running safely through to the keeper. 

Doncaster’s Jessica Price

 Connor with a great defending tackle inside the box on Saxton right of goal as the ball in clipped into her from Breen on the left. Price on the turn 25 yards out central to shoot as she gets hold of the loose ball, Butler coming across her goal can see it bounce wide of her left post. Driscoll-King turning the ball behind for a corner on the right as Doncaster get forwards with Bell and Saxton. Put into the middle isn’t cleared, a scramble seeing it hooked clear. Advantage played as Driscoll charging through the middle is tugged back. The ball running on for Perkins holds it up well picking out Steward to the right of the D, her shot charged down.

   Driscoll with another free-kick won 30 yards out, struck towards goal, strikes a Doncaster arm the referee with a better view of it awarding the hosts a free kick just outside the D to the right of centre. Lowder over  in the 88th minute curling a shot past the wall, Sharpe diving to her right can’t get there the shot cannoning back off the upright, then behind for a goalkick as a blue and white shirt flies in.

Kate Lowder’s late free-kick striking the post

 So close for Peterborough at the death, the hosts come on again Driscoll on for Hipwell picks out Steward right of the D, inside to angle a ball across to the far post, Perkins diving on can’t quite reach in goal kick. Into stoppage time a frantic final minute neither side giving an inch as the final whistle blows to see the points shared.

Full time Peterborough United Women 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

 A hard fought point for Peterborough in the finish, frustrating Doncaster in an evenly fought contest. Defences on top for the most part a good opportunity at either end of the match for the hosts to score a goal. Both sides striking the woodwork. The later the game wore on nerves played a part. Peterborough as keen to keep the clean sheet than they were to score. Doncaster pushed forwards just couldn’t find a way through. As a neutral it was a great game to watch despite it being 0-0 and I don’t see too many of those.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. It’s another tough one ultimately to pick out an individual player but I have my notes to help me out. Defences were solid and worked hard throughout for both sides. For Doncaster, Nadia Khan posed a threat on the flanks going forwards. Lindsey Tugby through the middle with so dynamic runs. Lauren Breen got clattered several times for her efforts but such was the threat she posed to the opposition with some strong runs forwards. For Peterborough Beatrix Borque carried a threat in the wide areas and it is neck and neck between the other two Cassie Steward battling for the ball well in the middle getting forwards then joining the attack 2nd half creating chances both for herself and others. Just edging it though is Jess Driscoll was strong on the ball in the centre winning possession back and taking the game to Doncaster.

An entertaining trip to Peterborough (once I got there) Been looking to get over see a game for a while and it’s always great to catch up with Doncaster Rovers Belles. My thanks to both clubs for assisting me with the team details, much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham