Category Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v London Seaward FC

Sunday 13th February

FAWNL South East Division One

 Heading down the M11 into Essex this Sunday for a math from FAWNL South East Division One to catch up with a couple of sides I haven’t seen play in a while Harlow Town Ladies hosting London Seaward FC.

  Of course I haven’t seen London Seaward FC play as they are a new name for an established side in the league, but more on them later. The FAWNL South East Division One reaching a crucial stage for the sides battling at the bottom of the table, while an intriguing contest his emerging amongst the top half sides with AFC Wimbledon Ladies in 3rd looking to produce a late challenge on the Essex pair at the top Billericay Town Ladies and Hashtag United Women.

  Harlow Town Ladies are newly promoted to the FAWNL having performed well in the two previous seasons affected by the Covid pandemic in the ERWFL Premier Division. Successful in their application for promotion this season, league swelling in number were dealt a rough hand with the news that the FA was going to increase the number of sides relegated this campaign with up to 4 of the 13 in South East Division One likely to go down. A huge jump for any side from step 5 to step 4, Harlow a 2-3 lost a home to Cambridge City on the opening day found life tough in the league after that collecting just a single point in their next 7 games. That led to the club parting ways with manager Dean Parrett. Ruudy Ridhwaan taking over as 1st team manager.

 Harlow’s 1st win on the season coming in mid October as they held off a late comeback from hosts Norwich City to win 4-3. Ending 2021 on a high with back to back victories to move them away from the bottom. Much more competitive in 2022 booking a spot in the last 4 of the Essex Women’s County Cup a 1-0 away win at Kent Football United putting Harlow level with Enfield in 9th and in with a good shout of escaping relegation in their debut season. Narrow defeats away to form sides QPR and Actonians they will be looking to pick up the points at home this afternoon.

 Reaching the FSWNL under the Leyton Orient banner today’s visitors were quick to become an established side holding their own in the FAWNL. Sadly after 6 seasons of using the Leyton Orient name the club decided they wanted to take the women’s section in a different direction leaving that established side in limbo. It was the players themselves who took on the task of giving the club a new identity and hope for the future becoming London Seaward FC. A new name and new way of running a club, visionary using the experience of it’s players and volunteers within and out of the game and looking at attracting more funding and sponsorship. No doubt a challenge but on the pitch London Seaward FC have once again held their own in the league in the top half of the table ex-Harlow player Abbey Dell the clubs top scorer with 11 goals so far. A 7 point gap between themselves and Harlow, won the reverse fixture 3-2 back in September.

 The Harlow Arena the venue for today’s game. A nice stadium set-up the large artificial playing surface overlooked by a large seated stand housing the changing rooms below, directors boxes above. beside that the clubhouse with bar and a covered area leading into it with a kitchen hatch offering hot food, had a very good cheeseburger before heading across to the other side wear a smaller terraced stand is situated offering protection from the rain that was forecast to arrive shortly before kick-off then hang about. Gloomy and overcast a strong wind blowing across the pitch from one goal to the other that would present an issue for both sides throughout the game.

Harlow Town Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Zara Wickett, Harriet Douglas, Mayzee Seymour, Livvy Bilson, Billie Brooks (C), Millie Stacey, Rebecca Stephenson, Amy Nash, Andie Dickens, Chloe Bassett & Lilly Bruno.  Subs – Lilly Bueggein, Nicole Farmer, Toni Green, Charis Howell & Therese Addison.

London Seaward FC

London Seaward FC starting XI – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Alex Gatt, Jo Butler-Williams, Giorgia Bracelli, Kate Bradley (C), Hayley Kerr, Skye McNally, Ash Marchant, Hayley Barton, Rea Thomas-Arayo & Abbey Dell. Subs – Cheryl Anderson, Naomi Nash, Ellie Pace & Phoebe Eshen.

London Seaward to have the kick-off 1st half with the wind at their backs, wearing an all navy kit with white trim. Harlow lined up opposite wearing an all red kit with white trim. The ball played back to the defence shifted to Jo Butler-Williams at left back looks to play the ball up the line, Harlow full back Harriet Douglas can see the ball out for a throw-in. London Seaward stay left make progress forwards before a foul is given away. Hayley Barton to play the ball into the box attacked at the near post but safely claimed by Harlow goalkeeper, Zara Wickett.

   Harlow come through the middle Rebecca Stephenson helping the ball out to the right for Amy Nash to take on, Butler-Williams challenging the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly knocked inside to Stephenson turns and lines up a strike from 20 yards out the ball caught cleanly by London Seaward keeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford at her near post. 

Rebecca Stephenson lining up a shot for Harlow Town Ladies

  A bright start from the visitors, pressing the ball high Abbey Dell moving out to the right getting a throw level with the box the ball helped on inside, Harlow awarded a free-kick, Rea Thomas-Arayo with a high foot. Harlow look to get forwards on the left Giorgia Bracelli intercepting at the back for London Seaward to full back Alex Gatt the ball sent long over the top for Dell in the middle, bouncing behind the Harlow defence, Livvy Bilson moves to shield the ball looking for the back pass, with Dell hustling looking to get around her, ends up bringing the striker down just before the pair reach the box. A foul signalled play stopped looked to be the last player could be in trouble but surprisingly no action is taken against the player London Seaward with a free-kick in a dangerous position right of the D, Barton over the ball hit hard and low taking a wicked deflection off the jumping wall taking it away from goal and out for a corner. 

London Seaward’s Hayley Barton

  A good delivery from the corner inswinging threatening to drift under the bar from Barton, tipped over well by Wickett for another corner, from the right this time lands on the roof of the net. London Seaward keep players up winning the ball back left side into captain Kate Bradley helped on to Bracelli right of her 20 yards out opens up her body taking on the shot the ball rising screws away from goal. 

 GOAL! Harlow pick up the ball in a central position Stephenson sending a great diagonal ball out to the right Andie Dickens up with Nash the ball send into the area with Chloe Bassett making a central run, the ball doesn’t reach her, a hand ball spotted the referee pointing to the spot Penalty! Bassett placing the ball on the spot steps up and sends the keeper the wrong way slotting the ball to her left low into the bottom corner 1-0. 8 minutes played.

Chloe Bassett puts Harlow into the lead from the penalty spot.

  London Seaward go straight on the offensive from the restart the ball out to Barton running into space on the right down the line squaring a cross into the near post, Bilson up well to win the header knocking it down for captain Billie Brooks to hook away to the left Kerr latching onto it for London Seaward lines up a strike charged down inside the box hits the arm of the defender going to block Penalty! no sooner have Harlow scored from the penalty spot at one end they concede one. Bradley up to take the spot kick aims to place it high to the keepers left Wickett going the right way throwing herself up to make a fantastic save take the ball away from goal players rushing in on the follow up left of goal the ball blasted in on the angle deflected over for a corner kick.

Zara Wickett saving, Kate Bradley’s spot kick

GOAL! London Seaward hit back to level from the resulting corner another dangerous inswinging delivery from Barton across the face of goal a hot of players at the far post Dell amongst them getting her head on the falling ball to take it over the line 1-1.

 

Abbey Dell making it 1-1 for London Seaward

London Seaward’s, Abbey Dell

An action packed open 11 minutes to the game, play paused now as Harlow have a player down in the goal Brooks taking a knock in the build up to the goal. Brooks is okay to continue play resumes. The wind at their backs Thomas-Arayo running with the ball from half-way lets fly from all of 35 yards out the ball racing past Wickett right post. Is a little scrappy at times both sides guilty of giving fouls away Dickens bringing down Ash Marchant in the middle top of the circle players go forwards into the area as Bradley sets the ball down, played on to the right side of goal, Thomas-Arayo drifting free of her marker with a free header rising plants the ball wide across goal, the flag however raised against her.

Amy Nash looking to get in behind for Harlow Town Ladies

 

   Thomas-Arayo moving right taking the ball on pace down the flank fizzes a cross into the area cross the top of the six yard box finding Dell at the far post not easy to get under control, Bilson nicking it from her feet before she can get a shot away. Is an intense watch, London seaward applying pressure all over the pitch forcing errors from Harlow frustrating the hosts using the pace of the ball with the wind to their advantage. The visitors moving the ball across the pitch Kerr with Butler-Williams racing ahead of her on the left goes on Douglas forcing her to play it back London Seaward moving the ball out to the right

GOAL!  clipped into Barton she had Dell ahead of her the pair combining well down the right wing into the corner Dell firing in a cross near side Bilson up well to head clear at the near post the ball spinning out to the left Bradley forwards latching onto it laying it forwards into Butler-Williams inside the six yard box free beyond the far post squares it inside for Thomas-Arayo who sends the ball high into the back of the net, London Seaward opening Harlow up to take the lead 1-2.

Rea Thomas-Arayo puts London Seaward into the lead

 Harlow frustrated give away a free-kick top of the circle, inside their opponents half, a long way out Bradley nevertheless having wind assistance goes for goal, isn’t far over brushing the roof of the net. The visitors strong with half an hour played getting bodies forwards not letting Harlow find any momentum in the final 3rd. Amy Nash coming over to the left looking to make thing’s happen for the hosts turns on the ball is brought down on halfway. Brooks with a good ball into the box from the set-piece aimed far post London Seawards defence up well to head clear. 

  Bassett wins the ball well in the middle for Harlow the hosts looking to move the ball quicker the pass to Millie Stacey back to full back Mayzee Seymour sent up the wing for Nash her diagonal ball looking for Lilly Bruno chasing through the middle, London Seaward stretched Bradley has the legs to catch Bruno take the ball before she can bring it under control. 

  Bradley has a long throw on her and taking advantage of a convenient gate in the pitch side fence on the left sends it high into the box for Dell left of goal to see down across her body and shoot, Wickett well placed to snatch the ball down to safety. Marchant spreads play out to the right with Barton on the move in behind  to cross into the area, Brooks intercepting to clear the danger for Harlow. 

Harlow captain, Billie Brooks

  Pressure from London Seaward Butler-Williams travelling with the ball on the left inside for Kerr helped on into Dell left of the  20 out turns her shot goalwards in low but lacking the pace to trouble the keeper. Harlow look more of a threat when they move the ball quicker between them using the pitch to their advantage he ball clipped out to the right Dickens advancing with it flashing a cross into the box, Bassett central, Bamford down ahead of her the ball skips up lost by the keeper behind her Bassett loses it momentarily giving the London Seaward defence the split second needed to get back and hook away to the left comes straight to Stephenson 25 yards out one touch and lines up curling shot aimed near side, Bamford ack on her feet across to cover the angle and catch the dropping ball.

 

  Bilson is booked as she slides in on Dell out wide right for London seaward a free-kick for the visitors Barton playing it in near side helped on across goal, dropping central Nash clearing for Harlow, appeals for handball, waved away. Harlow make a change bringing off Douglas with Nicole Farmer joining the defence. Tempers flaring up on the bench with a foul right in front of them, the linesman taking exception to something said, the referee comes over to have a word and issue a caution. 

  Thomas-Arayo with a turn and hit from all of 25 yards out bounces wide of Wickett’s right post. Barton right drives on Thomas-Arayo ahead of her the pass forwards the ball fired into the area, intercepted and cleared by Farmer for Harlow. Harlow break well Stephenson moving right on for Bruno up the line plays a diagonal ball into the box Bassett after it, Butler-Williams back to put in the tackle regain possession for London Seaward. 

GOAL! Right on the stroke of 45 minutes Harlow come back to level the scores attacking on the right with pace players rushing forwards it is a superb cross field ball into the area to pick out Bassett arriving left of the D inside the area her first touch taking the ball in behind her marker to send the ball low across the keeper into the bottom corner 2-2.

Chloe Bassett putting Harlow back on level terms late in the first half

  Bruno with a strong challenge on Gatt earning her a yellow card as play resumes into stoppage time in the first half, Harlow having been on the back foot since going 2-1 down coming back to level things up with the half time whistle approaching. The free-kick out wide for London Seaward played into the area near side Dell caught under it tries to keep it alive turning it central a scramble ensues, Harlow needing to keep their composure not give anything away late on do well to scramble it clear. 

Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 2-2 London Seaward FC

  That was certainly an intense 1st half, flown by, an energetic start that saw two penalties one scored and one saved and an equalising goal scored from the resulting corner in the opening 11 minutes. London Seaward starting well taking the game to Harlow using the wind to their advantage. Still somewhat against the run of play it was Harlow who took the lead from the penalty spot. No sooner had they scored however they went and conceded a corner up the opposite end Zara Wicket saved Kate Bradley’s spot kick only for the hosts o concede from the resulting corner kick. London Seaward pressing the ball well stretching Harlow to take the lead  were dominant for a spell after that creating chances, Harlow holding out despite their frustration  to score an equaliser right on the stroke of half time  to see the sides go in level at the break.

All to play for 2nd half Harlow with the wind at their backs in the 2nd half no changes for the hosts. London Seaward with a change Cheryl Anderson on for Barton, with Harlow getting the 2nd half underway. The rain continuing to fall steadily the wind blowing across the pitch. Dell in to close the ball down straight away getting it back to her defence, Butler-Williams takes the ball upfield on the left, Farmer into tackle the ball deflected off her in behind Wickett out to the top of her box to claim with Thomas-Arayo closing in.

London Seaward’s Alex Gatt

 Thomas-Arayo with Kerr on the left the ball lofted into the box cleared London Seaward appealing for a penalty but nothing doing, Bradley from distance 30 yards out striking the ball goalwards, comfortable for Wickett. Harlow come through the middle lifted over the top bouncing off the artificial surface causing the London Seaward defence problems as Bruno looks to battle her way through onto it. Bamford coming out to take hold of the ball. As Bradley tried in the first half so does Brooks in the 2nd as Harlow are awarded a free-kick inside their own half Harlow’s captain going for goal the ball carried wide of the post. 

 Harlow coming on better at the start of the 2nd half right side Stephenson on for Bruno into space, McNally stays on her well tracking her all the way to the by-line winning a goal kick off the striker. Bassett wide left seeing the ball into the feet drives for the by-line into the box before flashing a cross over the bar. Both sides moving in on each other quickly space is opening up players looking to get on down the flanks Harlow pressing the London Seaward back line preventing balls getting into their attackers. 

  Bassett on the left onto a ball down the line checking inside before sending a shot over the crossbar for Harlow. Bradley at the back for  London Seaward comes on allowed to pick a pass sends it long out to the right with both Thomas-Arayo and Anderson providing runs on the flank, is a vital interception from Seymour in between as she tracks the pair heading the ball clear. Farmer likewise on the opposite side defending a Gatt sends a long ball up the line for Dell. 

Harlow Town Ladies, Mayzee Seymour

London Seaward make a 2n change bringing on Ellie pace for Marchant goes up top along side Dell and Thomas-Arayo. Unpleasant conditions both sides closing the ball down forcing errors, Harlow more competitive in the final 3rd Bruno forcing a throw on the right. Possession with the hosts comes back to Seymour some 30 yards out time and space to line up a shot dipping in drops favourably for Bamford to claim.  Harlow make a change bringing of Dickens, on comes Therese Addison. The change sees Bassett move from the left to the right. Butler-Williams and Anderson swapping flanks for London Seaward.

  Bassett on the right taking the ball to the by-line before crossing in the ball defended at the near post turned behind for a corner. An inswinging delivery Bamford getting a fist on it knocking it out to the left fired back in deflected behind for another corner. The 2nd corner just as dangerous in along the face of goal not claimed by the keeper knocked down into the six yard box bodies everywhere eventually cleared out to the let of the D Addison on it sending a strike wide of the left post. 

  Bruno fouls Bradley wide left London Seaward lining up along the top of the area as Bradley sends the ball into the box near side Thomas-Arayo drifting in in front of everyone looking to flick it on past the keeper, doesn’t get the connection she was looking for as Wickett safely gathers. Bassett winning a free-kick high on the right for Harlow, Addison looking to play the ball in across the face of goal, Kerr doing her job as the wall keeping the cross out. The game much more open in the 2nd half Harlow pressing forwards creating openings risk the counter but so far remain firm at the back. 

   Bradley with another opportunity to play a free-kick into the box from deep the ball cleared by Bilson out for a throw in the corner. Bradley winning it left side at the back the ball played on played diagonal out to Dell breaking in behind into the box right of the D slotting home into the bottom corner, the Harlow defence though stepping up well to catch her offside the flag up against her no goal. Charis Howell entering the game for Harlow replacing Stacey. The game entering the final 15 minutes.

  Harlow with a strong 2nd half performance coming back at London Seaward attacking on the right a cross flashed along eh top of the area comes to subsisitute Howell, left of the D 25 out takes on the shot driven in low taking a deflection spins behind for a corner kick. Goes long over everyone retrieved right crossed back in punched wide by Bamford who gets a foul against her.

  Bruno brought down looking to keep control of the ball no advantage for Harlow play brought back for the set-piece Hash over it centrally players up into the box launches it towards the far post skips on through out of play no one getting a telling touch. Harlow taking the game to London Seaward looking the most likely to find a winning goal right now Nash on for Howells right the cross fired into the box, Bamford punching the ball away to safety. Bradley defending another cross played in from deep.

London seaward captain, Kate Bradley

 Bradley then getting a booking as she pulls down Stephenson as she looks to race in behind her a free-kick just over halfway. Right side Brooks to send it into the box Bruno attacking gets something on it Bamford batting it away. The game edging into the final 5 minutes.

GOAL! London Seaward play the ball into Dell inside the centre circle battling to retain possession she is bundled to the ground presenting the visitors with a free-kick late on an a chance to put players forwards. Bradley over the ball as her teammates take position top of the box right of the D ready to move she plays a looping delivery into the near side bouncing in the box Wickett starting to come for it Bracelli arrives first to get a touch and take it past the keeper to score as everyone rushes in to congratulate her 2-3.

Giorgia Bracelli firing London Seaward into the lead late in the game

  A hammer blow for Harlow late in the game they look to get on the attack from the restart Bassett out right charging forwards sending a cross in deflected behind by Anderson for the corner kick. Whipped in rom the right, is cleared by Kerr on the penalty spot with a little over 4 minutes left to play. Harlow winning a free-kick wide left the ball sent up into the box, headed clear by London Seaward. The visitors making a change in stoppage time bringing off Dell for Naomi Nash. Addison on the left winning Harlow a corner everyone inside the final 3rd the delivery long over everyone.

 Harlow committing so many forwards are hit on the break the ball out left for Pace to chase taking possession in the corner looks to get into the box on the by-line is brought down by Bilson who recieves her 2nd yellow and as a result is sent off n the closing moments. London Seaward with 2nd left need only keep the ball the free-kick short as the final whistle blows and the visiting side take all three points.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 2-3 London Seaward FC

  A much improved 2nd half performance from Harlow as they really took the game to London Seaward limiting their opportunities in attack while creating good opportunities up the other end. As the clock ticked down thought it more likely Harlow would find the winning goal. London Seaward although on the back foot knew they could create a few opportunities of their own and took it 5 minutes from time to score the winning goal. A draw may well have been the deserved result overall but it’s all about taking your chances London Seaward did to move up to 6th in the Division One table while Harlow remain in the bottom 4 but far from out of it will feel hard done by today but must pick themselves up again ready to go again on Tuesday night away to Stevenage FC Women knowing a win will get them up to 9th.

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 but wouldn’t want it any other way. A few performances of note first. For Harlow, Rebecca Stephenson was good on the ball throughout picking out passes and bringing others into play getting into some good positions in attack. Chloe Bassett was strong throughout in attack driving forwards scoring both goals and taking the game to the opposition. London Seaward with a strong all-round team performance. Kate Bradley strong at the back winning the ball and dangerous from set-pieces. Hayley Barton on the right attacking taking the game to Harlow in the 1st half. Abbey Dell up top battling for the ball, causing problems and drawing defenders out of position. Today’s award though goes to Rea Thomas-Arayo her movement especially 1st half posing Harlow problems drifting right and left, driving at the defence and at the heart of most attacking moves.

First time I’ve ventured into Essex since the pandemic began and it was well worth it, that was some opening to a game had everything a great advert for the FAWNL entertainment, the players coping well with rubbish conditions. The sides much changed but great to catch up with both. My thanks to both clubs for their help today enjoyed my trip to The Harlow Arena.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Queens Park Rangers WFC

Sunday 23rd January

FAWNL South East Division One

A quiet start to 2022, needed a break after what was a tested end to 2021, the mental health not great a pause most definitely needed, ready to go again and plenty of exciting football to look forwards to in what hopefully will be a relatively normal 2022. A trip to St Neots today to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One between two sides looking to push for a top 4 finish in the league as Cambridge United WFC take on Queens Park Rangers Women.

  Darren Marjoram coming in from St Ives Town Ladies to manage along side head coach Ben Yeomans has seen Cambridge United WFC make an excellent start to the season holding their on in the top 4 for much of the first half of the season although 1 collected from there last 3 league matches in 2022 plus no league action since December 12th has seen them slip down to 7th. In the only competitve match played so far in 2022 Cambridge were convincing winners against Eaton Socon Ladies as they secured their place in the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup final where they will play St Ives Town Ladies. Have been busy in the transfer market looking to add to an already competitive squad with defender Rachel Kosky joining from Enfield Town Ladies, striker Nicole Emmings returning to Cambridge after 4 seasons with Stevenage FC Women along with Amber Cantwell re-joining after a spell with Wroxham Women.

Saw QPR Women in my last game of 2021 away to Norwich City Women. Back hen the club was midtable closer to the sides in the bottom 4 but with games in hand didn’t look likely to get dragged into a battle at the bottom. Were comfortable for the large part in a 2-1 win, ending the year with defeat to the leaders Hashtag United Women. Have made an excellent start to 2022 as they embarked on a run of 3 games in 8 days winning 0-1 away to London Seaward last Sunday then making it back to back wins with a good result at home to 3rd placed Actonians 2-1 the winning score with goals from Katie Akerman and top scorer Melanie Hall who has 12 for the season. That result putting them firmly in the mix for a top 4 finish as they move ahead of Cambridge on goal difference.

St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus stadium the venue for todays fixture the area leading up to the stadium seeing an ever growing housing development on that side of the town offering a good catchment area for growing fanbases of the mens and women’s side, Cambridge United WFC that side getting good support from St Neots and Cambridge United FC themselves, were due to play QPR at the Abbey Stadium earlier in the season had the FA Cup not gotten in the way. Hopefully a game at the Abbey Stadium is soon on the horizon. The pitch in good condition, sawdust applied to a few patches. Is wide play can be spread with both sides liking to spread play out to their flanks. A dry day if very overcast.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Kira Markwell, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett. Grace Waygood, Gisela Otten, Laura Baker (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Amy Howlett, Laura Mitchell, Nicole Emmings & Ruth Fox. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Lauren Rouse, Amy Houghton & Faith Hewitt.

Queens Park Rangers Women

 Queens Park Rangers WFC starting XI – Katie McLean, Georgie Lewin, Danielle Maloney, Lauren Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Joanna Blodgett, Laura Hennessey, Katie Akerman, Ellie Searle, Melanie Hall & Demi Edwards. Subs – Lucie White, Brogan Moore, Sue Kumaning, Ailish Carolan & Emilia Parsons.

Nicole Emmings the only one of the three new arrivals available to today starting up top alongside top scorer Ruth Fox who has 12 for the season. It’s the visitors to get the game underway  wearing blue and white hooped shirts, blue shorts and socks. Red numbers on the back will be hard to read again but having seen them quite recently the players are fresh in my mind. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence Cambridge move in quickly to close the ball down Fox on captain Vicky Grieve forced into a hasty clearance, scrappy in the middle before Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down goes in hard with a strong tackle to put the ball out. It’s had enough and is replaced. 

Alysha Stojko-Down in to win the ball for Cambridge

  QPR shift the ball across the middle Katie Akerman into Joanna Blodgett put long to Melanie Hall looking to peel in behind in the left channel, Gisela Otten reading the pass for Cambridge the centre back intercepts. The visitors regain possession spreading play to the right the cross in half cut out by Carrie Bennett runs into the D scrambled out, a midfielder running onto the ball the shot in low, Cambridge goalkeeper, Kira Markwell crouching to gather is behind the ball. 

 QPR’s Laura Hennessey winning the ball in the middle clips a pass on for Hall moving left, Otten across with her sliding in to make the tackle, on her feet quickly looks for options picks out Emmings with a fine diagonal pass out to the left. Emmings taking the ball up the wing moves inside before delivering a cross in near post, goalkeeper  Katie McLean down low to claim it. An even start to the game with both sides closing down the ball. QPR are awarded a free-kick left side the ball put out to George Lewin moving into space on the right down the line squares a ball into the top of the box looking for Demi Edwards, Amy Howlett back defending for Cambridge gets there first. 

  A throw on the left sees the ball put on for Ellie Searle looks to take it in behind, Anna Re with her the fullback slides in to tackle the ball off Searle runs out for a goalkick. Cambridge are matching QPR in the middle, the final ball into their attackers more often than not intercepted by QPR’s centrebacks, Grieve and Lauran Jordinson. Akerman plays it forwards into Edwards feet controls and spins the pass into Hal right of the D a fluid move Hall on the turn plays it out to Searle running into the box from the left, the shot struck wide, Searle frustrated having not got the connection right.

QPR over commit going forwards the strikers getting little joy central for Cambridge drifting out into the channels Fox is put clear on the left running with the ball is allowed to go all the way into the box looks to cut a cross along the six yard box, McLean diving forwards scooping the ball into her gloves. Lewin on the right getting into Cambridge’s half firing a fierce ball into Edwards right of the D, Grace Waygood on her quickly defending for Cambridge the ball cleared up to Fox in space on the left takes on the strike early outside the box across the goalkeeper, McLean down gets a touch to deflect the ball wide of her far post for a corner. The ball in defended at the near post before Cambridge are flagged offside trying to keep the attack alive.

Cambridge striker, Ruth Fox

  Edwards has been busy up top working to get the better of Cambridge’s centrebacks a good contest so far between her and Otten. Bennett lifting the ball on for Emmings this time in the clear on the left the attacker driving forwards squares a cross into the top of the area, Grieve intercepting for QPR. A flare up between Edwards and Otten sees the referee having a word with both. Is competitive even in the middle the centre backs for both sides proving a solid unit to break down. A throw high on the right for QPR the cross fired in near side, Edwards there to turn the ball goalwards, Waygood blocking at close range. 

  Emmings off a throw on the left shifts infield surges towards the box the cross in to the near post Laura Mitchell after it but commits a foul trying to claim the ball. An audacious attempt on goal from Hall for QPR forcing Markwell to save tipping the ball over the top for a corner kick. The move starting on the right with Edwards and Akerman combining  playing a 1 2 to get the ball down the wing the cross swung into the box long to the far post looks to be over Hall but she rises a foot behind her to connect with the ball, loops up towards goal dropping Markwell making a superb save needed tips the ball over the bar.

QPR’s Katie Akerman

GOAL! For all the clever play leading up to the corner it is a simple move that brings about the opening goal of the game, the ball put in at a good height near side players up from the back, Grieve drifts in unopposed to rise and head the ball looping it up and over the keeper to make it 0-1. 

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve with the header to put the visitors into the lead.

The deadlock broken in the 20th minute. Cambridge look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball out to Mitchell right, look to go on, Danielle Maloney lunging in to tackle the ball out for a throw. QPR are quick to turn play around as Cambridge push players on Searle has pace to burn on the left is a good outlet taking the ball on turns inside flashing a cross through the six yard box. Maloney in to intercept as Cambridge captain Laura Baker takes the ball on through the middle the pass into Howlett looking to put Michell in behind, Maloney has to get there and does. 

  Cambridge with a free-kick wide right players up Baker over it, plays a ball into the neat post, headed clear falling to Howlett position 20 yards out right of the D, drills a low shot in through bodies is cleared off the line comes back to Baker on the right. Sent back in is bouncing in front of McLean leaning back at full stretch the goalkeeper does well to tip the ball over the bar for a corner. The set piece coming to nothing QPR hit Cambridge on the counter.

 GOAL! Searle’s pace on the left causing problems once again attacking the ball past the defence taken to the by line Cambridge stretched at the back, the cross sent in past the keeper across the face of goal, Edwards there on the goal line ahead of Bennett to take the ball over the line. Cambridge appeal for offside, the goal however stands 0-2. The visitors doubling there advantage as the game approaches the half hour. 

Demi Edwards putting QPR into a 2 goal lead

Cambridge feel aggrieved that a few decisions having gone against the leading up to the 2nd goal have an uphill task now to get themselves back into the game. The frustration grows as Howlett plays in Mitchell right side of the D then she feeds it through to Fox in behind inside the box, the flag raised against her. The hosts push looking for a quick reply Mitchell moving to the left picking up the ball top of the D goes to the by line, prevented from turning back to cross sends it up the line for Bennett to deliver the ball lofted in near post Grieve gets her head to it to clear only as far a Fox who drives back into the area doing well to force a corner.

Ruth Fox looking to get into a shooting position for Cambridge

   The hosts pressing the attack QPR hold well at the back breaking with intent the ball played through the middle lifted up to Edwards, both centrebacks close on her a mistake could cost them dear. Otten though makes no mistake composed as Edwards lunges in front of her. Mitchell starting to drift in from the right giving Cambridge an extra body around the box. Edwards left has Hennessey looking to go past her Re sliding in tackles, the shot struck in on the angle blazed over the bar. Searle with that shot has the ball at her feet powers down the wing whipping a low cross in near side Hall attempting another clever backheel looking to flick it on to Edwards behind her, Otten in to stab it away from danger. 

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down

Decisions are not going Cambridge’s way, play is disrupted because of it. Stojko-Down winning a good number of tackles in the middle plays Emmings in on the left up the wing a good cross in but no one gambling at the near post as has been the case on a few occasions allowing Jordinson to head it away untroubled.  The game moving into stoppage time at the start of the 1st half, Blodgett nudging the ball into Hall 30 yards out spinning off her marker to strike a shot, the ball brushing the roof of the net on its way over. 

QPR’s Laura Hennessey

 Hennessey with a good if painful tackle to deny Emmings getting away again on the left, play spread across the pitch out to Searle surging on down the wing the shot fired in Markwell down low behind it all the way.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Queens Park Rangers WFC

  A 2 goal lead for QPR at the break. Taking the lead in the 20th minutes and going on to double the advantage 10 minutes later. Have looked solid at the back with Cambridge finding more joy out wide without delivering the final ball. Has overall been a fairly even contest between the sides closing down the ball. Both sets of centre backs proving impossible to get through so far. QPR taking the lead from a set-piece, chances created whilst Cambridge have bee getting the ball up to their attacks they have for the most part been forced away from goal to  look to cause damage. Decisions certainly frustrating Cambridge who have to hit the ground running at the start of the 2nd half if they are going to find a way back into the game. QPR though are a difficult side to break down.

  A change for QPR previously unoticed, Brogan Moore on for Joanna Blodgett as Cambridge get the 2nd half underway, looking to get Fox on the move on the right, Searle is back to help Maloney the pair running Fox off the ball. Cambridge getting on the  front foot right from the off at the start of the 2nd half pressing the ball in QPR’s half, Baker the Stojko-Down winning it back, Mitchell just missing out on an opportunity to get in behind on the right. Cambridge preparing to make a change early on, a break in play with a QPR player down, sees play paused Cambridge looking to keep moving stay warm. It’s Lewin down has picked up a knock and QPR are forced into an early change 2nd half bringing on Emilia Parsons in her place. Cambridge make their change too bringing with Waygood struggling, on comes Amy Houghton to join Otten at the back.

Howlett with a first time effort from 20 yards out right side of the D as the ball rebounds to her from inside the box curled wide of the post. QPR  break quickly the ball fed through the middle out to Edwards moving right into the box getting a shot away under challenge isn’t far wide. The game opening up with Cambridge taking more risks up to Baker clipping a pass to Mitchell on the right takes the ball on sending a rising ball into the box headed clear by Grieve. Baker with a good challenge winning the ball high on the left Bennett taking it on in behind to cut back from the by line Mitchell top of the box inside left leaning back into her shot sending it over the bar. 

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

  Cambridge are pushing hard for a goal a corner on the right the ball in central McLean in amongst bodies to punch clear. Fox taking the ball on right winning a corner. The delivery in central met by Otten her header driven down wide of the near post. Cambridge make a 2nd change, Emmings coming off. Abi Davies on takes up an attacking position on the right with Mitchell moving left. Stojko-Down turning in the middle moving left forwards for Fox in the left channel gets a move on with the ball letting fly on the angle the ball sent in low towards the near post McLean down low to save. 

Cambridge full back Anna Re

Searle continues to be a menace on the right has certainly kept Re busy, shifting inside goes early with her cross angled to towards the top of the D, Houghton getting up well to clear it. The game played at a good pace, Mitchell drifting into the box recieves the ball right of goal as Davies travels with it on the right, turning looks to have space to shoot, turns inside though before checking back to take a swing, a QPR leg up to deflect it wide for a corner. Played in near post defended the ball back with the taker lifted back in Otten stooping into the header, turned goalwards, the ball cleared off the line, Cambridge appeal for a handball nothing given.

Gisela Otten defending for Cambridge

  QPR make a change Akerman coming off for Sue Kumaning. Cambridge pressing hard for a reply, QPR defending well like they did against Norwich and remain dangerous on the counter their attackers always ready. Davies attacking on the right for Cambridge sees two crossing attempts blocked by both Maloney and Searle. A throw on the right the cross dropped into the box bouncing, again Cambridge appeal strongly for a penalty a handball seen but again no is the call. Markwell needing to stay alert the other end too as QPR break Maloney has Searle travelling forwards on the left wraps her foot around the ball flighted in near side Markwell snatching it down well with Edwards closing her down. 

Fox into the left channel keeps the ball close to her feet QPR can’t risk lunging in the shot fired in low in the angle a combination of keeper post keeping it out. Stojko-Down left corner of the area forwards to take the shot on rising over the bar. Cambridge continuing to knock on the door with 24 minutes of the 2nd half played.

GOAL!  For all their attacking play however Cambridge find themselves falling further behind as Edwards with a great finish extends the lead. The visitors bombing up the right the cross squared into Edwards back to goal right of the D, control it well before turn to lift a rising shot past the keeper into the top corner 0-3.

Before the restart QPR make a keeper change, McLean coming off for Lucie White.

 GOAL! A further hammer blow for Cambridge as no sooner have they conceded a 3rd goal it become 4. QPR on the attack have Cambridge stretched with Searle raiding down the left in behind her marker to the by line to cut a ball back across the six yard box a shot struck first time bodies flying into to block, deflects out to the right. Cambridge with bodies still on the ground as Hall on the angle fires a vicious ball back in taking a wicked deflecting that takes back towards the near post away from Markwell and over the line 0-4.

Cambridge with two successive hammer blows receive a 3rd as Baker unhappy as a decision goes against her complains and is shown a yellow card and sin binned for dissent. Cambridge without their captain down to 10 for 10 minutes. Fox looks to battle her way forwards on the right is fouled for her trouble Cambridge seeing a decision go their way. Stojko-Down on it sent into the area White coming into the crowd to punch. Edwards game is run as she comes off for Ailish Carolan.  Davies looking to get in behind Maloney on the right lays a cross in to the six yard box cut out by Grieve going behind for a corner. 

 Cambridge have to push players up wanting a goal. The delivery into the middle, appeals straight away and a the 3rd attempt Cambridge win a penalty! An opportunity to pull a goal back with the clock running down. Now I have to confess to not noticing who was taking it, but that spares them as the ball is hit low to the right, White going the right way diving left to make the save keep it out keep QPR clean sheet intact. 

Lucie White saving from the penalty

With a player advantage QPR are keeping the ball giving themselves a respite as much as allowing Cambridge in initiative.  Faith Hewitt coming on for the hosts Cambridge bringing off Stojko-Down.  Baker rearing to get back on Cambridge back up to 11 with a few minutes plus stoppage time left. QPR happy to force Cambridge’s attacks wide with the ball knowing options in the box remain limited. Davies playing the ball into Howlett 25 yards out lines up a strike her attempt over. 4 minutes of stoppage time left.

  Hall on the right taking on the shot from all of 30 yards out for QPR driven over the bar. Cambridge with one last attack Davies and Hewitt combining outside the D, Howlett skipping between them to get into the box Hewitt putting the pass into her right of goal, Jordinson across to lung in and take the ball away from her feet. 

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-4 Queens Park Rangers WFC

  QPR make it 3 wins from 3 in 8 days to move move 3 points clear of Cambridge in 5th spot in the South East Division One table. The game starting off fairly even between the sides before QPR took the lead midway though the 1st half with their captain Vicky Grieve heading home unmarked from a corner. Cambridge frustrated with decisions seemingly going against them through out with an up hill task 2nd half. Gave it a good go applying plenty of pressure. QPR absorbed it well however always looking dangerous on the counter. Cambridge momentum building Edwards with her 2nd of the game taking it away from the hosts with Hall’s strike moments later making it 4. Further frustration with their captain sin binned. A glimmer of hope from the penalty spot was saved. All in all an afternoon of frustration for Cambridge build up play excellent just lacking that final ball. QPR looked good for their win scoring at crucial times. Move the ball about the pitch well always looking to stretch the opposition.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match not an easy decision but that reflects a good team performance more than anything else. A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge, Anna Re was kept busy at the back by Searle but nevertheless put in a good number of challenges. Gisela Otten had a good contest with Edwards especially first half winning some crucial tackles. Ruth Fox up top isn’t easy to get off the ball when she has it at her feet, QPR forcing her wider than she would have liked but created some good opportunities for herself. For QPR, Vicky Grieve and Lauren Jordinson were both solid in defence. Ellie Searle a constant threat with her pace down the right setting up several chances. Is close between and today’s award winner, Demi Edwards really took the game to the Cambridge centre back moving about the back line to receive the ball, scoring twice the 2nd a fine goal.

  Good to be back, needed the break recharged, mentally which was what was needed. An entertaining game my takes to Cambridge and Gary Reed for providing me with the team details today, much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Queens Park Rangers Women

Sunday 12th December

FAWNL South East Division One

 A trip up to The Nest CSF this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One with Norwich City Women taking on newly promoted Queens Park Rangers Women.

The league taking shape as the end of the year approaches with a cluster of sides from 7th down to 10th all on 10 points and involved in the battle to stay in the league with up to 4 sides facing relegation this season. Today’s opponents amongst those.

Norwich City Women recent FA Cup matches seeing them slip a place in the South East Division One table with Essex side Harlow Town Ladies moving past them into 10th with back to back wins. Having lost their opening 3 league games Norwich looked to have turned a corner with a purple patch in September seeing them collect 7 points from 3 games, since then however have lost 4 in a row in the league. The squad featuring a good mixture of experience and youth will be looking to end the year on a high with a positive result to carry them into the New Year.

Has been a long while since I watched Queens park Rangers Women, and this is a different side all together. The club effectively rebuilding following the controversial decision that saw the established Southern Premier Division join with Hounslow to become Hounslow Women, that club retaining their league status. Many of the players from that side not going to Hounslow at he start of the 2019/20. The club rebuilding with their development side playing in the London & South East Regional League. Queens Park Rangers retaining a loyal fan base successful in the COVID hit season’s that followed were promoted back to FAWNL South East Division One at the start of this campaign. The clubs league form hard to predict with the club having played just one league match since 17th November whilst they were playing in 3 cup competitions. Starting positively with back to back wins followed by back to back defeats have drawn lost and won one since to have 10 points from 7 games played. 7th in the table have up to 3 games in had on their rivals below. Melanie Hall top scorer with 10 goals from 14 appearances so far.

The Nest CSF the venue for today’s game, the new home of Norwich City Women. The newly build state of the art sporting facility boasting a modern artificial pitch along side the clubhouse and changing facilities. A large function room supported by cafe area to one side several grass pitches beyond situated to the north of the city. After a chilly, wet week Sunday bringing milder weather, if still overcast and dull. The floodlights on early as the teams walked out onto he pitch. 

Norwich City Women

Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Jess Harper, Anna Larkins, Chardonnay Johnston, Ellie Bishop, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Freya Symonds, Kathryn Stanley, Megan Todd & Freya Fuller. Subs – Natasha Snelling, Rosie George, Leilah Gooding, Abi Tate & Summer Ward.

Queens Park Rangers Women

 Queens Park Rangers Women starting XI – Mya Francis-Pownall, Georgie Lewin, Laura Jordinson, Vicky Grieve (C), Ellen Wardlaw, Ellie Searle, Erin Pope, Laura Hennessey, Brogan Moore, Melanie Hall & Emilia Parsons. Subs – Joanna Blodgett, Ailish Carolan, Esme Davies & Alice Curr.

It’s the visitors, QPR kicking off the 1st half wearing blue and white hooped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green colours. The ball played back to the centre backs Norwich press the ball forcing QPR to go back to goalkeeper Mya Francis-Pownall who kicks it long out to the left looking for Ellie Searle on the move attempts to bring it down under control as Jess Harper comes across to get into her to clear the ball for a throw in. 

Freya Fuller attacking for Norwich

  The ball regained in the middle Laura Hennessey into Melanie Hall in attack back to goal spins the ball forwards to the left with Searle bombing on, swings her cross into the area near side cut out and cleared by Jodie Drake tracking back for Norwich. The hosts look to mount a counter attack through Freya Symonds in the middle moving right playing it on for Freya Fuller into the right channel, QPR captain, Vicky Grieve getting across to lunge in with the tackle stop the threat.

  Norwich keep the pressure on in QPR’s final 3rd a throw deep on the right, the ball won played up to Fuller top corner of the box a shot struck on the angle, pace races wide across the six yard box. Ellen Wardlaw takes the ball up the left firing a diagonal all inside to striker Emilia Parsons outside the D, Ellie Bishop getting her foot to the ball first for Norwich goes away to the left wide put back inside into Brogan Moore positioned outside the box left of the D to have a shot struck with the outside of her boot racing low towards goal, Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams moving across her line is down to claim smoothly.

  Fuller on the move with the ball in attack for Norwich right side heading for the box, Grieve getting across to defend blocking once then twice as Fuller attempts to shoot a 2nd time this time the ball deflected back towards Francis-Pownall to collect safely. A bright start from Norwich.

  GOAL! That is undone in the 5th minute as QPR push forward in numbers to open the lead. Wardlaw out on the right firing a diagonal ball inside for Parsons, Bishop once again intercepting well taking the ball away to her right, Moore in to close her down regaining possession left of the D 20 plus yards out strikes the ball hard angling a low strike across the keeper to nestle in the bottom corner 0-1.

Brogan Moore opens the scoring for QPR

  Momentum switches suddenly in QPR’s favour the visitors moving the ball quickly across the pitch opening Norwich up in the middle, Hall after a cleared ball on the right racing to the by-line before turning in a cross into the six yard box, Chardonnay Johnston clearing for Norwich. QPR pressing the ball in the middle Laura Hennessey strong up to Moore releases Searle on the left, Harper preventing her putting a cross. Norwich’s Symonds plays the ball central onto captain Millie Daviss, looks to set up Fuller in attack sending the ball on into her path, her touch not quite there the ball running away from her inside the box as QPR defenders get back on her en masse to clear. 

  Wardlaw perplexed as she is adjudged to have given a foul away on the left side some 30 yards out, Larkins with Drake over the ball, Drake moving away central free as Larkins plays the ball into her, running in to strike the moving ball it flies high and wide of the top corner. Larkins with the ball on the left looks for options central attempts to flight a ball into the attackers to the right of the box, a QPR head with a glancing header on the ball taking it out for a corner. The delivery goes long across he six yard box Todd drifting in free can’t quite get there. 

Laura Hennessey bringing the ball under control for QPR

QPR get straight up the other end Hall into the box right side her cross headed behind for a corner. This delivery also long to the far post Pope up to head the ball put straight into the keepers gloves. Symonds drifting forwards to the right supporting Fuller, with good control turning 25 yards out to strike the ball on the angle, on target but straight into Francis-Pownall’s gloves with her near post covered. 

 QPR are looking sharp in attack moving the ball quickly in possession from back to front pulling Norwich’s midfield out of shape in the process allowing players space to exploit on both flanks with Searle and Wardlaw looking to get forwards whenever they can. Hennessey winning the ball putting in a number of good tackles. Wardlaw though is called into action in defence as the back line hesitates looking to caught Kathryn Stanley offside, the flag stays down however, Stanley in behind, Wardlaw covering the distance quickly to intercept Stanley at the top of the area to nullify the threat. 

Freya Fuller holding off, QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw

 Hall picking the ball up 35 yards out left channel driving forwards, Drake getting back to lunge in with the tackle before the ball is cleared away for a corner kick. Another far post delivery its Wardlaw up this time free to plant her header wide beyond the post. Williams out quickly to the top of the area to claim the ball for Norwich as Parsons looks to roll it on for Searle on the left. Bishop in to put in the block inside the box for Norwich as Searle powers into the area from the left.

QPR’s Melanie Hall

  GOAL! Midway through the half and QPR go on to double there lead. The visitors winning a corner on the right players lining up outside the area far post to run in to attack the ball, the delivery though goes through everyone. Is retrieved wide on the left players still up the cross fired into the six yard box Erin Pope at the near post seeing it down and turning into the shot put across the keeper, Williams getting down almost has it the ball squirming through under her body to cross the line 0-2.

QPR’s Erin Pope scorer of the visitors 2nd goal

  Norwich look to get players forwards as Larkins brings it on from the left her diagonal ball towards the top of the area headed down and clear by Grieve, Daviss quickest to react onto the loose ball hits it first time 25 yards out her effort swerving wide of the right post. QPR get the ball on quickly central with Hennessey out to Hall into the area right of goal, getting it down to hit in a low shot under Williams as she dives across in front of her the ball coming back off the base of the post into the six yard box left of goal, Bishop does enough to put Parsons off as she goes to hit the ball towards goal, taking all the pace off it as it trickles trough for William, rapidly back on her feet to claim.

Norwich’s Anna Larkins

  QPR looking strong pulling Norwich apart in the middle using there wide players well Searle across to Wardlaw on the right a corner won. Players come forwards lining up at the far post, the delivery finding it’s mark Parsons with the shot racing in low, evading Williams, Harper behind her covering the post clearing the ball off the line. The ball out to the right gathered by Hennessey lifts the ball in towards goal crashes onto the top of the crossbar and out of play.

  The visitors enjoying a good spell of play, communicating well, shifting ball quickly and crisply into feet pulling Norwich out of position causing the hosts some consternation. QPR’s centre back’s covering each other well whenever Norwich threaten an attack Symonds looking to lift the ball into Fuller right channel, Grieve across on the cover to defend with Lewin holding the attacker up. Fuller battling on with the ball to the right lifting a cross long into the area for Todd far side, collecting the ball checks back inside, thinks about shooting but he option is quickly closed down before her cross into the middle is cleared by Lewin. 

  5 minutes left to play in the first half. QPR finishing it strong. Hennessey with the ball pushes forwards into Parsons, Johnston close in defending for Norwich. Hennessey bossing the middle of the park taking it on once again out to Searle on the left drives forwards her cross into Parsons, with Hennessey beyond her, Drake getting between the pair to make a vital interception for Norwich. Wardlaw out on the right up he pitch for QPR top of the area las it inside for the advancing Moore, her clipped shot turned in on the angle going wide. 

Norwich defender, Ellie Bishop

   Norwich’s attackers looking to combine up top as Fuller brings the ball under control out on the left lifting it central for Stanley 25 yards out, flicks it forwards for Todd who is quickly crowded off the ball inside the D by QPR’s defence. Larkins and Wardlow enjoying a good contest on the right as the QPR player looks to get around Larkins to put in a cross into the box Larkins sliding in to block turning the ball behind for a corner. A long delivery to the far post a feature of the first half, QPR well drilled the ball met with a firm header powered wide.

QPR’s Ellen Wardlaw looking to take on Norwich full back Anna Larkins

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

  Despite a bright start from Norwich it was QPR who took the early lead and from that grew into the game with some good passing and movement throughout to pull their opponents out of shape. Doubling their lead midway through the 2nd half have also hit the woodwork and seen the ball cleared off the line. Norwich with a few chances inside the box, nothing clear cut, not giving themselves time on the ball QPR tight at the back giving little away. Frustration building need to change something in the 2nd half if they are to get back into the game.

  The two sides out with no changes made at the start of the 2nd half. Norwich to get the half underway. Fuller deeper in a midfield position with Symonds up supporting Stanley and Todd in attack. Drake on the ball playing it out to Stanley on the move left side takes the ball on towards the area before running into traffic and being crowded off the ball. Norwich looking to be positive from the off pressing the ball high looking to get at QPR’s defence. Are caught out as Searle escapes with the ball at her feet on the left powering her way forwards, Johnston moves out to meet her sliding into the tackle strong to take the ball, Harper clearing it forwards. 

Norwich centre back, Chardonnay Johnston

   QPR’s wide players combine well as Wardlaw gets free on the right sending a crossfield pass into Moore central 20 yards out who helps it out to the left for Searle, lays the ball forwards early into the box near post with Parsons making the run, diving in in front of Williams as she comes across to cover the angle doesn’t get a touch nor put the keeper of as Williams crouching down sees it up into her gloves. 

QPR defender, Lauren Jordinson

   Todd is adjudged to have blocked Searle’s run as the QPR wide player drives inside form the left, a card for Todd as she protests, the visitors with a set-piece in a dangerous position left of the D. Hall over it curls a low strike in on target past the wall Williams central in goal behind it right behind the strike. Norwich getting forwards on the right win a throw, Symonds controlling in spinning to put it on for Stanley running into the area Grieve back on her to tackle in low the ball deflected away for a corner. An inswinging delivery to the far post Francis-Pownall getting a firm glove on it to punch it away to the left. 

QPR’s Ellie Searle

  Fuller giving Norwich a little more steel in the middle the ball won, Drake enjoying a little space to exploit moving right clipping a diagonal ball on for Todd coming into the box from the left, her first touch a little heavy seeing the ball run away from her nevertheless goes after it sliding in on the keeper as Francis-Pownall gets down to save bravely, block the ball. Drake able to get forwards more too support the attack is well placed top of the area as a Larkins cross comes in from the left chests it down well looking to set up Todd, no shot on the ball comes back to Daviss who strikes a tame effort wide. 

Jodie Drake battling for possession for Norwich

  Drake gets all the way to the by-line before flashing a ball across the face of goal, no one running in to attack it. A bright start to the half from Norwich, QPR respond with a double change bringing off Parsons and Hennessey replaced by Alice Curr in attack and Joanna Blodgett. Not long after Norwich make a change of there own bringing of Fuller for Leilah Gooding. Symonds controlling the ball on the right off a throw on for Todd into the box Francis-Pownall across to close her down the ball blocked away for a throw.

  Larkins away with the ball left for Norwich puts a cross in for Drake near side, Jordinson in to win the header clearing for QPR. The visitors come through the middle Pope into Hall back to goal 20 yards out holds and sends out to Searle advancing on the left her cross in cut out by Johnston the ball out on the right a cross/shot blocked comes out to Moore 20 yards out smashes a shot back into the box her effort blocked before being cleared.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds

  Symonds on the right running onto a long ball forwards, getting a shot away on the angle the ball swerving in straight into the keepers gloves at the near post. Harper able to come on with the ball left side for Norwich plays it up the line for Symonds, Lewin getting across to put in the challenge for QPR. Much more even in the 2nd half, Norwich pressing the ball quicker the midfield hotly contested. Norwich winning a free-kick up high outside the box on the right. Before it is taken however the hosts make a change with 16 minutes left to play, Stanley coming off for Natasha Snelling.

  GOAL! Harper over the ball goes for goal a looping effort that has Francis-Pownall back pedalling struggling to reach it, possibly getting her fingertips to the ball as the ball comes back down off the cross bar into the box left of goal a shot lashed in, Norwich appeal immediately for handball! The referee pointing to the spot, a penalty awarded! Snelling with the ball in her hand hasn’t touched the ball yet, 4 goals so far this season will this be her 5th? Makes no mistake with a well placed penalty struck to the right of the diving keeper to score 1-2.

Natasha Snelling with her 1st touch scoring the penalty for Norwich

  Game on with 15 minutes left to play Norwich looking better 2nd half pulling a goal back. Continue to press the ball high Symonds and Todd getting help from Snelling. QPR defending strongly though, Searle and Wardlaw remain their outlets on the flanks ready to break as the floodlight begin to take full effect. Lewin out to Searle left on for Curr into the box from the angle, Bishop into her making the blocking tackle. Pope on through the middle passes on for Hall lifts it on for Curr into the left channel but the flag is up against her.

QPR captain, Vicky Grieve

   Harper right side on for Todd up top turns off her marker into the area, Grieve getting back on her Todd going down, appeals but nothing given. The clock ticking down, Norwich pressing QPR getting bodies back determined to hold on. The visitors always ready to spring the counter as Norwich commit players forwards Searle the outlet on the left driving on with the ball carrying in infield sends it on into Curr she does superbly with a clever backheel flick that sends it on for Searle to touch on into the area one on one with the keeper, Williams sets herself Searle closing on looking to play it wide of her, too close though as Williams reacts sharply getting down to her left to lay claim to the ball. 

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

 Changes for both sides with Rosie George on in attack for Todd. Pope comes off for QPR replaced by Esme Davies who moves up top with Curr, Hall dropping back into the middle. Norwich with bodies forwards as a freekick is put in from the left, Drake getting it down hesitates before releasing her shot seeing the attempt charged down. Pressing the ball outside the box Snelling gets it out to George moving clear inside the area wide right her cross flashed back in towards goal, caught well by Francis-Pownall with Symonds closing in. Wardlaw coming off in the latter stages for QPR to be replaced by Ailish Carolan. 

 Snelling able to travel with the ball through the middle getting a shot away from 25 yards out on the right drilled wide of the target. Snelling seeing the ball into her feet outside the box sends in out to George to the right, inside the box, Grieve getting back into her to tackle cleanly for QPR. Harper on the right with a ball into the area near side George going after it as the keeper comes to claim the pair colliding go down, George coming off the worst play paused as she recieves treatment but is okay to continue.

  Into the final minutes, Davies in space out wide left for QPR brings down a long diagonal pass shifting it between her feet before sending a looping ball into the box, Hall closing in getting her boot up to bring the ball down looking to direct it wide of the keeper from 10 yards out, Williams down sharply to her left laying claim to the ball. An advantage played as Bishop winning the ball at the back is fouled as she attempts to bring the ball forwards running onto Drake 30 yards out connects with her shot well swerving through the air isn’t far wide. 

  Sadly that is the last action of the game as she comes off injured moments later, appearing to twist her ankle as it rolls over the ball. On in her place Abi Tate. The clock running down QPR defending strongly not committing too many forwards Moore on the right with a early ball on for Davies the flag raised against her. Hall doing he sensible thing as she brings the ball down on the left off Searle the pair running the ball into the corner. Moments later the final whistle blows the points going to the visitors.

Full time Norwich City Women 1-2 Queens Park Rangers Women

  QPR with the win the damage done in the 1st half an early strike from Brogan Moore followed up with a goal from Erin Pope midway through the half with further chances created. A strong defensive performance throughout the game proving hard to break down. Prepared to sit in the 2nd half invite Norwich onto them ready to attack on the counter. Norwich despite a bright start quickly on the back foot in the first half pulled out of shape in the middle by QPR needed to make changes 2nd half. A good response with a much improved 2nd half performance, Freya Fuller dropping into midfield as Norwich pressed the ball higher, creating more opportunities, substitute Natasha Snelling with a clinical penalty to set up a tense final quarter hour, just couldn’t find that 2nd goal, ending the year with defeat. QPR pulling away from the sides below remain 7th have one more game left at home to leaders Hashtag United Women next Sunday.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As is often the case not an easy decision to make. A few performances of note to mention first. Freya Fuller played well both in attack in the first half and dropping into midfield in the 2nd half, that in turn allowed Jodie Drake more opportunities to get on influence the game linked up with the attackers well. QPR were solid through the team keeping a disciplined formation, Vicky Grieve with a number of vital challenges at the back. Laura Hennessey bossing the midfield in the 1st half. The award today though goes to Ellie Searle was a strong performance out on the left getting forwards always an outlet strong with her running getting in crosses and linking well with the attackers.

Been a hectic few days glad to have ended the weekend with a much needed football game. An entertaining encounter, a good contest my thanks to Norwich for providing me with those all important team details.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 29th September

FAWNL South East Division One

A spot of midweek football action on Women’s Football East to take in a local derby match from FAWNL South East Division One an all Cambridge affair as Cambridge City Ladies host rivals Cambridge United WFC.

The pair coming into the match having both made a positive start to the FAWNL South East Division One season. Once one club with what is now United becoming Cambridge Women FC who went on to become an established sides within the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid. Now joined with Cambridge United FC, whilst a new Cambridge City Ladies was re-established and made a rapid rise through the pyramid themselves to reach the FAWNL South East Division One themselves 2 seasons ago.

  Cambridge City with a strong policy on bringing youth through much of their squad has been with the club playing for various youth sides with the club having 3 adult teams with a Reserves and Development side also competing in the FAWNL Reserve league and ERWFL Division One North respectfully. Ollie Drake taking over as 1st team coach this season joined by Paul France with Tim Rapley formerly 1st team coach assisting too. A 1-3 home loss to Hashtag United Women on the opening day City bounced back well recording back to back wins away to Harlow and Stevenage to move up into the top half of the table there they have remained adding a further 4 points to lay 6th with 10 going into tonight’s derby match. Have a largely settled squad bringing in a couple of experienced players defender Jess Evans and former Ipswich Town captain, Amanda Crump who made 216 appearances for the club scoring 72 goals. Derby day often bringing out the best in City they have proved a difficult opponent for United since joining them in South East Division One.

  A change in the management team for Cambridge United WFC too with former St Ives Town Ladies manager, Darren Marjoram coming in to join 1st team coach Ben Yeomans. The pair joined by Liz Pamplin who made 500 appearances for Cambridge United. Attacking player Ruth Fox, midfielder Abbi Griffin and goalkeeper Kira Markwell all following marjoram from St Ives to Cambridge United with midfielder Laura Baker returning along with defender Anna Re. Defeat on the opening day too for United before the club went on to win 4 on the bounce 3 in the league and one cup game. Up to 4th in the South East Division One table at one point were brought back down to earth with a bump last weekend with a heavy 6-0 defeat at home to Hashtag United Women. Have several out with injury including Fox who damaged her elbow at the weekend having led the line well so far scoring 5 goals one behind Emma Jenkins who has netted 6 so far. A versatile squad with several players comfortable in several different positions.

  The Demcom Stadium the venue for tonight’s derby match home to Ely City FC, situated behind a new Cinema and restaurant complex on the outskirts of Ely. Once the home of United too, now hosting City’s home games whilst they wait for Cambridge City FC’s new home in Sawston to be built. The pitch looking superb these days the ground seeing improvements ongoing. The grass surface offers plenty of width a mild evening, dry the floodlights taking full effect as the teams walk on onto the pitch.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Ceri Flye, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Jess Evans, Ellie Cullum, Hannah Bodily, Charlotte Gillies, Karly Tolentino, Amanda Crump & Grace Stanley. Subs – Erin Davies, Lauren Tomlinson, Lauren Saunders, Zynia Delglyn & Georgia Clarke.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Kira Markwell, Anna Re, Abi Davies, Grace Waygood, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Gisela Otten, Laura Baker (C), Emma Jenkins, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt & Laura Mitchell. Subs – Carrie Bennett, Libby Fraser, Amy Houghton, Charlotte Crisp & Niamh Day.

 

Done a few of these before so it’s City vs United from this point, with City kicking off the first half wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United wearing Amber shirts with Black shorts and socks. City play it back into midfield, United immediately in to close down, put out to the right back the ball fired long looking for the run of Charlotte Gillies out wide, bounces on through into the box giving United goalkeeper, Kira Markwell and early feel of the ball. 

  The tempo quick from the off neither side wanting the other to settle on the ball, Karly Tolentino moving out wide left for City getting hold of the ball Unite full back Anna Re sliding in to defend the ball out for a throw in. City take it quickly the ball dropped into the feet of striker Grace Stanley controls and sends it in central for Tolentino, leaning back into her shot from the top of the D sends the ball over the bar.

United get the ball left into Emma Jenkins, fouled full back Abi Davies races forwards in support taking the ball on past her sending it into the box for Laura Mitchell leading the line for United tonight, left of goal can’t turn as she is closed down by City defender, Ceri Flye the ball behind for the 1st corner of the game. Challenges flying in Gisela Otten has hold of the ball for United in the middle spreads it wide for Jenkins moving forwards left side, Flye getting across her to shield the ball playing it back to her captain and goalkeeper, D=Sarah Hudson to clear upfield. 

 Certainly has a derby match feel about it both sides not holding back, clearly up for it challenges committed, referee Laura Van-Leir is in for a busy game. Gillies breaking with the ball right side whipping on a low cross towards the near post cut out by Kayleigh-Anne Burt for United a corner conceded, the delivery dealt with comfortably at the near post. Is a little scrappy no one allowed any time to dwell on the ball, both sides looking to get the ball out wide. Re right side on for Howlett then Hewitt beyond her Jess Evans getting amongst them defending for City.

  City unhappy as a seeming advantage is halted for a free kick to the hosts on halfway, the ball clipped out to the left Tolentino flicking it beyond Re running towards the area coming inside from the left sees her attempt on goal blocked by United centre back Grace Waygood. Tolentino out left causing a few problems for United early on taking the ball to the by-line her cross into the six yard box cut out by Burt, coming back to Tolentino her 2nd attempt is cleared by Waygood. City counter attack with purpose Cullum with the ball on up to Stanley in attack central 25 out clips it out to Gillies bursting forwards on the wing right side in space hits the ball on the run smashing her shot wide of the near post.

United pushed up as they attack risk getting hit on the counter, Evans playing the ball out from the back, is a vital interception by Waygood to prevent Stanley breaking in clear behind. Markwell with a confident claim chest high at her near post as Tolentino whips the ball in as she reaches the by-line. The action is end to end no let up as one side defends immediately looks to get the ball into their attackers. United captain Laura Baker sending the pass out to Jenkins left side gathers the ball, taking on the defence twisting left and right before firing a diagonal ball into the d looking for Mitchell, Evans getting in ahead of her to clear for City. 

  Hudson from a free-kick at the back plays in a dangerous bouncing ball left side that United fail to deal with bouncing up for Stanley to attack, hooks an attempt towards goal from 20 yards out sends the ball over the bar. Re defending at the back for United sends a straight pass forwards into Mitchell turns on the ball firing it out to Jenkins advancing left side cutting inside, Flye steps out to meet her with a good tackle to win the ball back for City. Both United full backs looking to get on join the attack, Davies left supporting Jenkins with Re on the right playing the ball on for Mitchell, flicks it on for Faith Hewitt in behind takes the ball down to the by-line inside the box firing in a cross, Mitchell attacking it, Evans going with her lunging in to beat her to the ball.

  Davies is fouled getting forwards for United wide left, Jenkins takes on the shot from the angle, the ball brushing the roof of the net on its way over. Crump drifting into space on the left takes the ball on plays a squared pass into Stanley left of the D, before she can dig it out to shoot, Re gets back to lunge in challenge and clear up the pitch. The foul count is totting up both sides as guilty as each other, the benches as fired up as the players. Decisions going against both. United’s Otten in the middle on for Mitchell central, is closed down by Evans as Hannah Bodily comes away with the ball looking for Tolentino left side, Re closing her down quickly to get United back on the front foot. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Amanda Crump

  Otten sends the ball out to Howlett on the left puts it into the box for Mitchell right of goal, is quickly closed down by the City defence, the ball cleared out to their right is latched onto by Davies who strikes it from all of 40 yards her effort racing wide at the near post. United getting the ball forwards well Baker sending a shot over the bar from outside the area as she runs onto Mitchell’s knock down from a cross on the left. City break Cullum finding Tolentino left side, Waygood there to block for United as she attempts to play the cross into the box, then Burt throws out a leg inside the six yard box to concede a corner. The delivery looping high towards the far post falls to the floor players scrambling for it pops loose for Baker, calmness in the eye of the storm as she shows great composure to dribble the ball out of the area rather that launch it upfield.

   For all the toing and froing between the sides neither keeper has been tested yet. Baker passing the ball out to Howlett right side looks to go down the line, Amy Reed staying on her for City sliding in to make the tackle. Re pushed up winning it straight back for United the visitors getting the ball in towards the top of the area, Evans and Flye closing the door on Mitchell. Reed does well again against Hewitt as United’s No10 looks to get in around behind her on the right. City sitting deeper than United are inviting pressure ready to counter attack their defence proving hard to get around. Waygood and Burt making sure nothing gets past them at the other end. 

  Gillies on the right for City letting loose with a strike from all of 25 yards, Markwell well position back on her line taking a comfortable catch for United. City getting a free-kick wide right the ball put into the area Markwell comes and punches away, United don’t get far as City press regain possession turn play around Tolentino knocking the ball to her left into the path of the advancing Cullum on the run strikes a low shot in on the angle, Markwell back on her line down smartly at her near post to save pushing the ball behind for a corner kick. 

The 1st half drawing to a close has been played at a high tempo both sides pushing the attack looking lively although defenders have had the upper hand. Crump can certainly unlock the door with a pass an almost does so as she thread it through for Stanley, Burt is on hand to throw out a leg make an important stop for United. United upset as Howlett is the first player to receive a yellow card in the game the resulting free-kick seeing City advance on the left for a moment Stanley looks to have gotten in behind Burt, however both Re and Baker are round on the cover to defend halt Stanley’s progress with Tolentino ready to provide the run into the box.

  The free-kicks continue to add up both benches letting their frustrations known. Mitchell pushed in the back 30 odd yards out to the right presenting United with an opportunity to bring players forwards Baker over the ball looking to place it at the far post attacked the ball is knocked to the ground coming for Burt her eyes light up the ball barely leaving her foot however the City defence have charged it down. 

  City advance down the right Gillies bombing forwards squares her cross along the top of the area, controlled by Tolentino left of the D plays it to Stanley on the right side quick to get her strike away the shot rising is much to her frustration straight at Markwell in the United goal.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

  Plenty of action in the 1st half both sides wanting to press the attack as quickly as possible has been scrappy at times but a committed battle with both sides no wiling to let the other settle on the ball. Fouls given away City have invited United on somewhat allowing them to keep it tight at the back willing to counter attack, neither side though carving out a clear cut chance inside the box.

 No changes for either side at the break as United get the 2nd 45 underway, the ball out to Jenkins on the left a deft cross lifted into the area cleared by Flye, United press hard in midfield Otten then Baker the ball played into Jenkins top of the D, turns and shoots, rising Hudson throwing her gloves up making a good save knocking the ball wide and behind for a corner. The delivery into a congested near post well defended. United with a 2nd corner press the advantage at the start of the 2nd half, City struggling to get the ball into their opponents half.

 United with a free-kick on the right City defending the initial ball, Re regains possession laying it on down the wing for Baker, on the angle drills a cross into the near post, Jenkins closing in on the keeper as Hudson back on her line looks to see the ball into her gloves, under pressure from the United attacker the ball is spilt, Jenkins gets her foot on it looks certain the score (think several amongst the United bunch thought she had) the ball though comes back off the post and City manage to scramble it away to safety.

  United starting the brighter 2nd half a free-kick won inside the City half on the left, Baker sending the delivery into the area met centrally by Jenkins sends her header over the crossbar. Mitchell running at the City defence wins a corner. Defended by Reed at the near post a 2nd corner awarded, goes long this time over over one in the six yard box Burt retrieves far side attempts to lift back in deflected behind for a 3rd corner. Right side long United appeal for handball as City bring the ball away but nothing doing. Bodily putting a diagonal ball out to the left for Reed to attack, Re halts her progress for United. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Laura Mitchell

  City get hold of the ball centrally Bodily passing to Stanley the striker clipping the ball out to the right for Gillies, taking the ball into her stride checks inside her marker driving for the box before firing in a low strike to the near post, Markwell across her goal down low to make a comfortable save. United suddenly dropping off their intensity City press the ball in the final 3rd Crump putting a looping ball in, Burt getting in ahead of Tolentino. 

  The visitors regain possession centrally Otten on for Jenkins central has support to her right from Mitchell who in turn finds Howlett wide right taking the ball in behind lifts a cross towards the penalty spot, Mitchell rises to meet it a glancing header the ball falling wide of the far post Jenkins after it, Mulheron in ahead of her defending for City. The game opening up now City have Gillies on the ball right as Stanley knocks it down into her path, an early cross into the box has Crump breaking in behind, Markwell focused as she drops onto the ball claiming it as Crump arrives on her. 

Cambridge United WFC and WF East sponsored Amy Howlett

 City winning a free-kick in the middle lifted in towards Stanley top of the D, flicks the ball on well with Crump running in on the follow-up, Markwell seeing it late getting behind it taking the ball on the bounce. 

  GOAL! The dead lock is broken and it’s a superbly hit shot too. United winning the ball out on the right central the pass taken early driven in with pace towards Jenkins free outside the box right of the D. Turns and shoots the ball struck well arrowing straight on the rise before Hudson before she can react into the back of the net 0-1.

Emma Jenkins fires Cambridge United WFC into the lead

  An hour played and it’s United who have the lead, City getting straight down the other end from the restart Gillies winning a corner. The delivery in central drops dangerously inside the six yard box, United scrambling it away to safety. A change for City, Erin Davies retuning to the club on for Crump in attack. Baker coming back to slide in and tackle Stanley as she looks to battle her way in behind Burt 25 yards out. United working hard doubling up at times to thwart City as they build in attack the hosts frustrated.

  United attack with Davies getting on to support Howlett drifting right a corner won City defend the cleared from the top of their area City break Tolentino on the ball left side sends a ball into the box Markwell though can see it out for a goal kick.

 It’s rare to see especially at this level in the women’s game however it’s the first sin bin I’ve witnessed this season after Stanley is sent off for 10 minutes for City after a long talking too from the referee over a disputed corner/goal kick. United making their 1st change of the match bringing on Niamh Day for Hewitt in attack. The substitute involved straight away as a loose City ball from the ball falls to her centrally. Drives forwards moving into the right channel before laying it on for Mitchell ahead of her into the box Hudson comes to reach it first her kick striking Mitchell rebounds behind for a goal kick. 

City making a change Lauren Tomlinson coming on for Reed. United press the attack Baker on for Mitchell right of the D lays her attempt wide of the target. Otten getting the ball back for United forwards into Mitchell central back to goal upended, advantage played as it comes straight to Howlett beside her blasts her shot in low driven wide of the near post. United pushing on with their player advantage. 

  Stanley is allowed back on City back up to full strength. A focal point in attack is picked out straight away left of the D controls into her feet turns laying a diagonal ball into the box from the left Tomlinson racing forwards, Markwell sees her coming races off her line to close the angle throwing herself into the save Tomlinson getting her strike over her the ball clearing the crossbar too.

  GOAL! No sooner have City created a chance at one end United go down the other end and double their lead. Day winning a corner on the right. Players come forwards crowding the six yard box, angled in near post is a bullet header by Otten as she stoops to meet the ball powering it into the back of the net from close range, is engulfed by her teammates as they rush forwards in celebration 0-2.

  Less than 10 minutes left to play City trailing 2 nil win a free-kick on half way played up towards Tomlinson inside the D turns well into a shot, United’s defence prepared the ball charged down. City have to push forwards time is against them now, United are tiring a corner won on the right, Stanley up well knocking the ball down two United players go to block both stay down as the ball is cleared. City make a change bringing off Bodily late on, on in her place Zynia Delglyn. Less than 4 minutes plus stoppage time left to play.

  City pressing the ball high Davies right on for Gillies attacks a cross flashing in low through the six yard box, Markwell down on it late stops it but hasn’t claimed it, Waygood getting there 1st to clear for the visitors. A nervy end to the game United sitting back inviting City to come on Davies with a shot from 20 yards out, put straight at Markwell. 

  GOAL! Into stoppage time and City pull a goal back to set up a nervy finish to the game, Getting bodies forwards on the left in attack the ball is angled in centrally, picking out Stanley left of the D 20 out sees it across her body and hits it well to rifle a strike in high across the keeper into the corner of the net 1-2.

Grace Stanley getting a goal back in stoppage time for Cambridge City Ladies

  Maybe too little too late with the clock rapidly running down Cullum frustrated as she gives away a foul on Jenkins United with a free-kick. Baker wanting to get it into the corner, United end up giving a foul away themselves with Jenkins booked. Baker in with a strong challenge to win the ball after two City defenders end up tackling each other. One last throw of the dice as City have a free-kick in their own half Hudson on it everyone else in the United box, played in is a firm defensive header to put it clear as the final whistle goes and United celebrate winning the 1st Cambridge derby of the season.

 

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Cambridge United WFC

  A highly entertaining game, very much a derby match, strong tackling but played in relatively good spirits throughout (at least I thought so) Committed wasn’t time for anyone to settle on the ball. United with a good start to the 2nd half getting the break through taking the lead on the hour. Adding a 2nd late in the game. City never out of it came back to score a goal in stoppage time but couldn’t find another as United take the 3 points and climb above them into 4th spot in the table. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a battle out there at times and a few performances to mention. Firstly for City, Ceri Flye made several important tackles in defence as did Jess Evans. Going forwards Charlotte Gillies looked a threat out on the right all game with some good runs. Whilst Tolentino moved well in attack left side. For United, Gisela Otten and Laura Baker were strong in the middle, Baker also tracking back well. Anna Re was busy at right back both defending and getting forwards to set attacks going. The award though goes to Emma Jenkins her work rate was superb making herself available throughout the game good positional play and a well struck goal to open the scoring.

  Love a midweek derby match even if it 2am when I’m typing this. An entertaining game non stop action two sides that were committed from the 1st minute to the last. My thanks to both clubs for their help this evening.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 22nd August

FAWNL South East Division One

 A trip to St Neots Town FC this Sunday for another slice of action from FAWNL South East Division One, a meeting between to familiar foes once the A10 derby as Cambridge United WFC host Enfield Town Ladies.

  The pair both founding members of the FAWNL (or FAWPL as it was originally known) share a good rivalry that has seen some closely fought matches over the years, Enfield more often than not taking the points in recent seasons. Both looking to emerge from the COVID pandemic that saw the past two season’s drastically affected with renewed optimism in a league that is only getting stronger year on year.

  Cambridge United WFC now settled at their new home at St Neots Town FC, the clubs facilities allowing the 1st and Development team to train and play together. The site featuring the main stadium with a grass pitch alongside a 3G pitch to play and train on. A change in management for the 1st team this season with the club appointing Darren Marjoram as 1st team manager to work along side Ben Yeomans as 1st team coach. Marjoram was previously at St Ives Town Ladies building the women’s side seeing numerous promotion over 6 years taking them all the way to the ERWFL Premier Division. Liz Pamplin also joining the coaching team retiring from played after making 500 appearances for the club.

  Three players follow Marjoram from St Ives to join Cambridge, highly rated goalkeeper, Kira Markwell, midfielder Abbi Griffin and Ruth Fox, the attacking midfielder returning to the club having improved during her time at St Ives. Also returning to the club, midfielder Laura Baker having had spells with Watford and today’s opponents Enfield, vastly experienced, tough tackling and a great passer of the ball. Defender Anna Re also another new edition to the squad. Baker, Re and Fox all starting in Cambridge’s season opener away to Actonians last Sunday with Griffin on the bench. A tight game goalless at the break a single goal was to settle it in the 2nd half headed home by Rochelle Shakes to see the 3 points go to Actonians.

 Enfield are a club in the heart of the community, the women’s section now boasting 4 senior teams the 1st team showing signs it could push on began challenging for a top 3 spot in the FAWNL South East Division One pre-COVID. The club bringing in a host of new faces over the close season with manger, Billy Highton adding Jade Dempster to the coaching team as first team head coach. Goalkeeper Grace Taylor joining having most recently been with fellow South East Division One side,  Kent Football United. Brionne Fowle and Jessie Carpanini from the youth set-ups at Arsenal and Chelsea respectfully. Kelsey Mugford from Spurs, winger Leah Littlechild from MK Dons. Crystal Palace duo, Che Thomas and Diana Tobe. Forward Alana Munro former captain of Watford Development and Katie O’Leary who has vast experience playing at a higher level with Spurs, London Bees and most recently Watford Ladies.

  10 new faces in all with 7 of those making their Enfield debut on the opening day of the season last Sunday at home to London Seaward (previously known at Leyton Orient WFC) despite creating a host of chances seeing a number of saves made Enfield trailed at the break to an early goal from London Seaward’s new signing Abbey Dell. Alana Munro with her first goal for the club scoring early in the 2nd period to see Enfield draw in their opening fixture.

 St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the venue to todays game the grass pitch looking fantastic, a great playing surface. A seated covered stand one side housing the changing rooms and clubhouse. Covered terracing behind both goals. The weather remains nothing to shout about in August, relatively cool with cloud cover threatening rain throughout, one shower coming prior to kick-off, wetting the pitch. The sun doing it’s best to provide some warmth when it pokes through the clouds.

A great playing surface at St Neots Town FC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Carrie Bennett, Amy Haughton, Grace Waygood, Abbi Griffin, Laura Baker (C), Laura Mitchell, Emma Jenkins, Ruth Fox & Sam Khan. Subs – Charlotte Crisp, Faith Hewitt, Gisela Otten, Natasha Collins & Amy Howlett.

  Enfield Tow Ladies starting XI – Grace Taylor, Danielle Smith, Jessie Carpanini, Sheryce Slater, Rachel Kosky, Brionne Fowle, Mollie Kmita (C), Leah Littlechild, Klesha Darroux, Katie O’Leary & Alana Munro. Subs- Rebecca McShane, Rebecca Evans, Olivia Syson, Jade Dempster & Hollie Holt.

  Thankfully the showers clear moments before the players walk out onto the pitch, Laura Baker captaining Cambridge today with Mollie Kmita wearing the armband for Enfield. It’s the hosts to kick-off the first half Cambridge wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Enfield opposite wearing white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Baker looks to play the ball long to Emma Jenkins bursting forwards on the left the pass cut out by Enfield full back Jessie Carpanini the ball dropping back into the middle of the park, Brionne Fowle snapping in to close down the ball firing a through ball on for Alana Munro to chase, Cambridge goalkeeper. Lauren Webb needing to come rushing out of her box early on the clear the danger.

  For a moment Enfield are celebrating thinking they have taken an early lead winning the ball centrally played rapidly out to Katie O’Leary peeling away into space on the right fires an early ball into the area met well by Alana Munro central sticking out a leg to divert it wide of the keeper high into the back of the net, the celebrations cut short however by the assistants raised flag.

  A good start to the game from Enfield taking the game to Cambridge looking to use the width of the pitch spreading the play. Grace Waygood at the back intercepting a through ball meant for Munro. Ruth Fox bringing the ball on for Cambridge left side attempts to send a ball in behind for Jenkins to attack, Carpanini reading it well for Enfield in defence. Players on both sides closing down the ball already shaping up to be a good contest Laura Mitchell right for Cambridge takes on her marker looks to send it up the line for Sam Khan to run onto, Rachel Kosky in on the Cambridge striker quickly to regain the ball. 

Enfield defender, Rachel Kosky

 Enfield are quick to get counter attacks going constantly looking to spread the play catch Cambridge on the back foot, out to O’Leary on the right has support from Klesha Darroux the pair linking up well as O’Leary flights a cross in towards the far post, Leah Littlechild coming in from the left free in the area attempting to strike the falling ball on the volley sees her effort sliced wide of the post. Littlechild is posing a real threat attacking down the left wing for Enfield driving forwards with the ball whips a dangerous cross into the six yard box, O’Leary and Darroux in to attack it, Webb keeps her eye on the ball taking it high in her gloves.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Charlotte Webb

   Khan battling her way forwards on the ball wide right does well to win her side a corner. The delivery long going beyond the far post is retrieved and driven in towards goal on the angle, Grace Taylor dropping on it low at her near post to claim. Taylor sends the ball long from her kick looking to set up a counter attack, Carrie Bennett winning a vital header to ensure Enfield don’t get in behind to mount an attack on the hosts goal. Littlechild has pace running with the ball at her feet another dangerous delivery into the area is intercepted by Grace Waygood, fellow centre back Amy Haughton launching it clear. 

Brionne Fowle bring the ball on for Enfield

  Cambridge getting to grips with the tempo Enfield imposed on the game early on Baker winning it central, Abbi Griffin sending a pass out to Jenkins on the left, puts a ball into the area too close to the keeper Taylor gathering at her near post. Littlechild doing well making ground on the left attempts to lay it back to Kmita, Baker sliding in on her to win the tackle. Littlechild keeps coming on the left squaring a ball in towards the top of the area Darroux having made a run left side back to goal attempts to lay it off for the advancing Kmita to strike from 20 yards out, her effort pulled wide across the goal.

  Attacking right making ground win a corner after a succession of throws, players up from the back. The ball whipped into the six yard box goes through everyone centrally dropping to Haughton at the far post, getting her foot under the ball scoops the ball up in towards goal, Taylor flinging an arm up the ball landing in the roof of the net a 2nd corner awarded this time from the left. Goes long again coming out to Haughton once again further out this time strikes the ball on the volley sends her shot wide. A spell of pressure from Cambridge inside the Enfield box.

  Fox bringing the ball on through the middle moving left pushed on into Jenkins returned to Fox as she goes past her looks to put it into Laura Mitchell feet as she makes a central run towards goal, closed down under challenge nevertheless gets a shot away 25 yards out blazed over the bar. Some strong tackles being made, Fowle on Baker this time seeing Cambridge with a freekick inside their opponents half Haughton on it putting it up towards the top of a congested 18 yard line, Kosky rising well to head the ball out of danger.

Jessie Carpanini carrying the ball out of defence for Enfield

   Both sides attacking the game flowing Griffin with the through ball looking for Jenkins getting around the back from the left, a little too much on it allowing Taylor to gather. 

  GOAL!  20 minutes played and the deadlock is broken. The ball with Cambridge won in the middle played out Fox making a run left side has support from Jenkins the ball returned to her as she looks to dribble it on into the area, a determined run into the box closing down on goal composes herself and lifts a shot wide past Taylor and into the back of the net to score her 1st goal at this level 1-0.

Ruth Fox firing Cambridge into the lead

  Enfield look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Kmita into Munro she spreads play to the advancing Littlechild on the left taking the ball on down the line attempts to get inside Anna Re to cross the ball, Re stays on her well keeping the winger wide before diving into tackle managing to win a goalkick off Littlechild. Carpanini getting forwards on the right making good progress on the ball, Jenkins needing to get back to help Bennett, deflects Carpanini’s cross falls straight to O’Leary top right corner of the area strikes her shot over the bar.

Enfield’s Katie O’Leary

  Cambridge are deep at ties as they defend, working well as a unit however the outlet up top isn’t easy to find and all to often Enfield regain possession to mount another assault, clinical ball’s through the middle at a premium though. Clouds starting to build again threatening more rain as Enfield win their first corner of the game to be put in from the right. A congested six yard box is ignored with the short option taken Danielle Smith her cross though is quickly charged down, Enfield keep the pressure on play spread to the left Littlechild surging to the by-line coming inside lifting a ball into the six yard box, Webb claiming it well for Cambridge. 

Danielle Smith coming forwards for Enfield

 Enfield pushing on Darroux with support from O’Leary on the right, Bennett tackling a throw conceded, pressure relieved as Jenkins wins a free-kick. Littlechild on the left has Cambridge racing back to defend their box as the ball is fired into the penalty spot, straight to Griffin who whips it clear. A blow for Enfield as they are forced into a change, Kmita struggling having taken a knock needs to come off on in her place, Rebecca Evans. 

Enfield’s Klesha Darroux

  The ball won centrally by Cambridge hooked up to Khan up top 25 yards out left of the D a good knock down to lay it into the path of Mitchell to the right, is quickly closed down by Kosky getting a low shot away lacks the pace to trouble Taylor as she dives to get her gloves around the ball. Cambridge with another corner on the left a high ball whipped into the six yard box Khan jumps well comes close but can’t get anything on it however a touch far side sees another corner awarded. Another dangerous ball in dropping loose inside the six yard box chaos ensures, Mitchell getting a foot on the ball close in the effort blocked Enfield manage to scramble it away.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell

  Carpanini on the ball left attacking for Enfield lifts a pass on for Munro making a right channel run in behind is looking to take the shot on the volley as the ball drops down before her, difficult but a good attempt as the shot is drilled wide. Enfield coming hard late in the 1st half O’Leary right on for Darroux wide her cross cut out by the backtracking Baker, Carpanini going after it in the corner, Bennett sliding in on her to defend for the hosts. 

  Strong appeals from Enfield for a penalty late in the half as they win a free-kick some 35 yards out central. Kosky having a strike on goal her shot hitting the wall, the ball deflected to the left Carpanini racing onto it taking it wide into the box Jenkins out to close her down, Carpanini’s cross blocked by Jenkins going behind, Enfield arms up claiming it struck her hand, the impact hand or not at such close range a penalty unlikely to be given. That the last action of an action packed first half.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Enfield Town Ladies

  Cambridge with the narrow advantage at the break going in 1-0 to the good thanks to Fox’s goal midway through the first half. Enfield starting the brighter working the ball across the pitch well spreading play took Cambridge awhile to get to grips with their opponents, eventually settling into the game it became a good contest, players from both sides working hard to close the other down some strong tackling but each side giving as good as they got. Fox making a great individual run into the box to put Cambridge ahead. Enfield have had opportunities although both keepers haven’t been called into action too often. Enfield finishing the half strong, Cambridge defending well.

  Still all to play for however with just a single goal in it as Enfield get the 2nd period under way.

 GOAL! A perfect start to the 2nd half for the visitors as they pull the scores level straight from the restart. The ball played back to O’Leary in the middle she clips her pass long out to Littlechild breaking forwards on the right, insolating Re, her challenge on the full back seeing her burst in behind clear to strike in a shot on the angle powering the ball high across the keeper to make it 1-1.

Leah Littlechild celebrating after levelling the scores for Enfield early in the 2nd half

  What ever plan Cambridge had discussed at half-time is in the bin. Enfield having equalised are straight on the front foot, tails up win a corner on the left put in towards the near post low, players from both sides attacking it can only describe it as a scramble Cambridge managing to clear the danger. A frantic start to the 2nd half Cambridge have little time to settle Enfield looking to get the ball into their wide attackers, Bennett lunging in to tackle on the left. Haughton stopping Littlechild as she comes on from a central position. 

Amy Houghton tackling Leah Littlechild

  Khan is doing well with the ball at her feet holding it up forcing Enfield into the tackle more often than not bringing  throw deep or a corner. A throw on this occasion dropped into Jenkins feet on the left attempts to skip on into the area before Slater charges her cross down. Re clipping a diagonal ball into Mitchell on the right, Fowle in to head it back upfield. Jenkins is left on the ground dazed as the ball struck at pace hits her hard, a head injury play is paused treatment needed. Is okay to continue but is definitely going to feel that one in the morning. 

  Enfield have look dangerous on the break throughout the match O’Leary with the armband now up to Littlechild away in behind into the box on the left slides in on the shot, Webb down well before her to stop the ball, play stopped though by a raised flag. Khan fouled by Fowle 30 yards out in a central position. Jenkins over the free-kick takes on the strike over the bar doesn’t trouble Taylor. Fox gets clear on the right in behind checks back to put in a cross with her left foot just behind Khan central, still attempts to spins on the ball send it onto Jenkins in beyond her the move not quite coming off. 

Emma Jenkins for Cambridge holding off, Enfield’s Jessie Carpanini

  Slater comes across well at the back to slide in on Khan as she threatened to break in behind to cross on the left a corner conceded. The corner count mounting for Cambridge, this one defended near side a 2nd corner awarded put long this time Haughton retrieving it managing to win a further corner on the left as the ball is charged down. An inswinging back whipped across the face of goal Fox coming in at the back post appeared to slip otherwise she might well have made contact with the ball. 

  Littlechild left side fires a cross in near side looking for O’Leary, Haughton defends well shielding the ball allowing Webb to gather. Enfield make their 2nd change of the match Darroux the player off replaced by Olivia Syson. Khan pulling out wide close to the touchline has momentum against her as she wraps her foot around the ball attempting to put in a cross, turns into a dangerous ball threatening to swerve in under the bar, Taylor though is back on her goal line and reaches up calmly to pull the ball down to safety. 

Laura Baker for Cambridge taking the ball on from Anna Re

  Cambridge make their first change of the game bringing on Amy Howlett for Mitchell. Fowle lines a shot up from all of 30 yards out right of the D swerving through the air Webb has plenty of time to set herself for the save dropping low to her left to smother the shot. 

  Enfield come close to taking the lead in the game Littlechild a constant threat coming on from the left making a run into the box as Smith gets forwards the cross fired into the near post Webb down at Littlechild’s feet as the winger looks to sent it past her from close range, Webb getting her fingertips on the ball is stranded on the ground as the ball is deflected towards goal, I’m standing in the other half and it looks to be heading in when Bennett racing in appears out of no where the left back sliding in to make a dramatic goal line clearance to keep the scores level.

Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett with a superb goal line clearance (picture taken at an earlier game)

  Baker’s bruise count is rising as she takes another painful one on the ankle, giving as good as she gets Cambridge as a collective are working hard to regain possession, Enfield continue to look to move the ball O’Leary and Littlechild carrying the biggest threats the game stretched at time has taken alot out of the players Re is struggling with a knock is replaced at right back by Charlotte Crisp for Cambridge. Baker scooping a pass up over the top for Howlett sprinting clear on the right into the box, Taylor though is out to it first. 

   Another change for Cambridge, Faith Hewitt coming on for Griffin in the middle. No let up in the action two committed sides who feel they can win it. Khan seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out left of the D looks to turn and strike the ball, Slater in to close her down charging down the ball. Khan’s last action of the game as she is replaced by Gisela Otten the move seeing Howlett join Fox up top. 

Cambridge captain, Laura Baker sliding into win the ball

 

  Baker gathering the ball into her feet in the centre of the park goes on a surging run towards the box looking to charge her way through the Enfield defence, Kosky lunging in to deny her a shot edge of the area the ball deflected right into the path of Howlett she strikes the ball goalwards riding it lands on the roof of the net. 

 Enfield with another change Littlechild the player taken off replaced by Jade Dempster. The clouds have been darkening the rain starts to return as the game moves into the final 10 minutes, the contest is on a knife edge could go either way, both sides feeling they can score. O’Leary right holding up the ball as Smith looks to get on in support, Howlett doing the defending for Cambridge. Block. Block. Block! The Cambridge defence throwing themselves at the ball inside the box as Enfield push on Fowle advanced with two of the strikes from close range. A final change from Cambridge the rain falling heavily now, Natasha Collins on for Haughton at the back. 

The rain falling heavily as Natasha Collins is introduced to the action for Cambridge

  GOAL! The substitute plays a vital role in the next passage of play as Cambridge go on to regain the lead in the closing minutes of the game both side undoubtedly tiring Fox snapping into a challenge right side battling to win possession of the ball, Collins going past her on the overlap Fox digs the ball out of her feet lifting it into Collins path wide wraps her foot around the ball sending in into the six yard box chest height both Howlett and Jenkins bursting forwards through the middle Taylor diving towards the ball under challenge she and Jenkins collide a 50/50 challenge deflects onto Howlett to turn the ball into the goal beyond 2-1!

  Cambridge go wild in celebration the goal given, alot going on inside the box however as both Taylor and Jenkins are down injured, trainers from both sides on. Enfield players surrounding the referee protesting their keeper was fouled. Takes a while to sort out does the goal stand… it does. Jenkins has taken another heavy blow to her jaw uncertain if she can continue and Cambridge have used all their subs. Taylor still down certainly can’t continue and a replacement goalkeeper is needed the gloves brought on for Dempster to wear. Taylor is up on her feet at least good to see. Jenkins will battle on. Play resumes, Dempster not ready however. Hollie Holt coming on in place of Taylor. 

The game restarts with 5 minutes of injury time. Enfield certainly feel aggrieved have been unhappy with a few decisions made throughout the game now find themselves 2-1 down with minutes left. Get on the attack Cambridge setting their stall out to defend Otten tackling Fowle as she comes on through the middle. A free-kick in the closing moments deep on the left Enfield push everyone up the ball to b launched into the box put in far post attacked knocked down towards goal Webb though can fall forwards onto it at her near post to nullify the threat. The final whistle blowing and it’s Cambridge who celebrate winning their 1st 3 points of the season.  

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-1 Enfield Town Ladies

  Was a really good contest between two committed sides in truth it could have gone either way. Cambridge defending well throughout battling at times taking the lead in the 1st half. Enfield starting well passed the ball well spreading play with necessarily having a cutting edge through the middle. A strong end to the 1st half was an even better start to the 2nd getting straight back on level terms. Chances for both sides some strong tackling, not played with any malice however, Bennett’s goal line clearance proving crucial as it was the hosts who went on to find the winning goal late in the game. Will do wonders for player confidence, Enfield head back to home knowing it could have so easily been 2-1 the other way, have little recovery time however as this is the 1st of 3 games in 8 days are at home to FAWNL newcomers Harlow Town Ladies on Wednesday evening before travelling to Norwich next Sunday. Cambridge are away to Harlow themselves next Sunday. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this weekends Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Boy this is a tough one a strong all round team performance from Cambridge. Let’s start with Enfield, great movement throughout from Katie O’Leary giving those behind her a ready outlet to pass the ball. So too Leah Littlechild on the left a constant threat throughout the match making several dynamic runs on the ball taking her goal well. Rachel Kosky strong at the back winning the ball. All round Cambridge put in a solid team performance wasn’t pretty at times but battle hard as a unit back to front winning the ball, Carrie Bennett’s goal line clearance as good as any goal. Amy Haughton making a number of strong tackles at the back. Emma Jenkins on the left of attack. Ruth Fox is improving all the time took her goal well. Edging them out I think though today’s award goes to Laura Baker was strong in the middle of the park putting herself about and often the catalyst for Cambridge’s attacking play.

  Was a good contest the action never stopped between two committed sides a great advert for the league no doubt. My thanks to both sides for helping me out with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham.

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Billericay Town Women

Sunday 15th August

FAWNL South East Division One

 It’s great to be back and can happily say I’m ready and raring to go looking forwards to what I hope will be a long and hopefully disruption free campaign. Starting the new season in Norfolk with a trip to The Nest in Horsford to watch the FAWNL South East Division One season opener between Norwich City Women and Billericay Town Women.

 With the previous two season’s being voided due to the ongoing COVID pandemic it has been a tough and frustrating time for all in the football community. The actions taken of course to try and limit the spread and ultimately save lives. Thought go out to those we’ve lost and those who have lost a loved one. The vaccine programme bringing hope that we can get back to some kind of normality. The women’s game at grassroots level in need of it this period hampering the development and progress of a number of sides, like myself will be hoping for better times ahead.

 The FA Women’s National League (FAWNL) going from strength to strength nevertheless, some shifting upwards within the pyramid seeing clubs promoted this season, Ipswich Town Women moving up from South East Division One to the Southern Premier Division signing many players up to a professional contract. Two sides joining South East Division One with Harlow Town Ladies and QPR Women joining from their respective regional Premier Divisions, sees 13 sides contesting South East Division One this coming season. The talent pool getting larger as the women’s game grows, clubs making some exciting and experienced signings the league will be stronger than ever.

Norwich City Women are long established as the leading women’s side in Norfolk have played in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid since the FAWNL or FAWPL as it was previously known was founded in 2014, members of the South East Combination prior to that. A new home for Norwich last season as they moved to The Nest a newly built sporting facility on the outskirts of the city. Along with that a trophy won after a long lean spell as they regained the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. Will be looking to use that as a springboard to push on up the South East Division One table having been at the wrong end of it for a few seasons. A trio of new signings made ahead of the new season with Mollie O’Callaghan, Freya Symonds and defender Chardonnay Johnston all joining from ERWFL Premier Division side, Wymondham Town Ladies. Goalkeeper Yasmine Walford also coming to Norwich having previously been with Royston Town Women. A few players also stepping up from the academy.

Essex side, Billericay Town Women acheived promotion to the FAWNL in 2018 after clinching the ERWFL Premier Division. Building in stature in recent season’s have become one of the leading sides for women’s football in the county. Essex Women’s County Cup holders have developed strong ties with Billericay Town FC which has seen the club attract a strong, talented squad that hit the ground running in the FAWNL pushing for the title right from the off. The pandemic dented those title ambitions but they remain firmly on track. Scott Chickelday taking over as 1st team manger from Kim Coster. Have kept most of the squad together whilst recruiting some new faces including left side attacking player Shannon Drewe from Millwall and most recently Mia Lockett who has impressed on trial from Tottenham. Billericay’s 1st team backed up by a Reserves and a Development side.

  The venue for today The Nest, the new home of Norwich City Women. The new built sporting facility boasting  a new artificial pitch next to a modern clubhouse and changing rooms featuring a cafe serving hot food and drinks overlooking the pitch with numerous grass pitches beyond. Restrictions lifting a decent number turning out to enjoy the match. The weather a little indifferent, cool under the dark cloud dotted around, warm when the sun manages to peek through. The Nest close to the airport, several plans and helicopters taking off over the ground.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Yasmine Walford, Leah Harper, Ellie Bishop, Chardonnay Johnston, Kate Parsons, Millie Daviss (C), Jodie Drake, Leilah Gooding, Samara Nche, Kathryn Stanley & Freya Symonds. Subs – Amy Durrant, Izzy Collins, Natasha Snelling & Katie Walker.

 Billericay Town Women starting XI – Amy Mullett, Lucy Jones, Kerry Stimson, Ellie Jeffkins, Courtney Lumley (C), Jay Blackie, Georgie Morton, Zoe Rushen, Shannan Drewe, Mia Lockett & Logan O’Shea. Subs – Danica Dougal, Leonie Bezant, Ruby Sealey, Mayzee Seymour & Freya Fuller.

  A change to the rules this season still a squad of 16, but now instead of 3 substitutes all 5 can be deployed. Billericay travelling with a full squad the front three, O’Shea, Lockett and Drewe making their competitive debuts. Norwich beginning the season with injuries to some key players whilst others are unavailable. Walford making her debut in goal whilst their are first competitive starts for Symonds and Johnston. The captains come to the middle Billericay to kick-off the first half wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts, Norwich lined up in their yellow and green kit.

The 2021/22 is underway, Billericay looking to get the ball out wide Norwich in to close down smartly. Jay Blackie in central mid-field for Billericay gets hold of the ball knocking it forwards played through for Lockett to break central, Kate Parsons reading the pass for Norwich the centre back getting across Lockett to prod the ball back to her keeper for Wolford to launch clear. Passes going awry early door as both sides work to hustle the ball, Norwich clipping a ball on up the right wing won well by Billericay’s Kerry Stimson on halfway, plays a great diagonal pass out to Drewe making a run left side who in turn played it early into the middle for Lockett to attack inside the D, full back Ellie Bishop sliding in well to defend for Norwich. 

  GOAL! Just 4 minutes into the game and we have the 1st goal of the season featured on Women’s Football East and it is something of a controversial one. Billericay are gaining momentum out on the flanks attacking right O’Shea in space, the defence in ahead of her to take the ball Norwich lay it back to their keeper inside her six yard box Wolford bringing it onto her left foot looks to shift it to clear on her right, Lockett is rapidly on her in to challenge for the ball the pair tangle, Wolford appearing to bring down Lockett the ball loose Zoe Rushen is on hand to slide onto it take it over the line… at the same time the referee blows her whistle. I think everyone thinks it’s a penalty and most likely a sending off for Walford. However after taking her time and consulting with the assistant on that side a goal is awarded 0-1 Rushen credited with the goal.

Zoe Rushen with her 1st and Billericay’s of the season.

  An early blow for Norwich, but it could have been alot worse had their keeper recieved her marching orders. Both captains called over by the referee as both sides want clarification on what happened before the game resumes. Billericay are beginning to impose themselves on the game short quick passes at the back keeping the ball moving before looking for a runner on the flanks, Drewe and O’Shea looking to go forwards the latter winning a corner on the right taken short into Rushen played back to the corner taker the cross sent in to the top of the area knocked inside for Rushen to latch onto shoot on the angle, the ball put straight into the keeper Walford having her near post covered. 

Norwich’s Kate Parsons winning the header with Billericay’s Mia Lockett

  Kathryn Stanley getting into some space on the left for Norwich comes inside before rolling it back into Bishop behind her the full back placing it central into Jodie Drake 30 yards out attempts to pick out forwards Symonds who is tightly marked inside the D the ball rolling harmlessly through for Billericay goalkeeper, Amy Mullett to deal with. Rushen central for Billericay looks to have put the ball on a plate for Lockett in attack central, outside the box, is a superb recovering tackle from Parsons as she dives in to take the ball away from the strikers feet. 

  O’Shea has pace to burn on the right side of attack for Billericay, the ball won on the middle of the park she is constantly ready to receive it, Bishop being kept busy tracking her the visitors hustling Norwich giving the hosts no time to settle on the ball. Likewise Drewe on the left picked out well by Rushen, touch and go racing on down the wing fires it into Lockett making a near post run, looks to see it across her and turn into the shot, Johnston getting close enough to put her off then clear. 

  GOAL! 18 minutes played Billericay push players forwards quickly Lockett getting in behind making a left channel run laying it back towards the top of the area that sees Georgie Morton get hold of the ball a strike a low straight ball hard to race past the diving keeper inside the near post 0-2. 

Georgie Morton scores to double Billericay’s lead

 GOAL! No sooner have the visitors gotten into a 2 goal lead they make it 3. Norwich are guilty of dallying on the ball at the back, left side Drewe closes down to tackle and win the ball taking it on in behind into the area, shooting on the angle to fire the ball wide of the keeper into the bottom corner of the net 0-3. Drewe with a goal on her Billericay debut.

Shannan Drewe opens her Billericay account to make it 3-0 (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

  Norwich are on the back foot, Billericay full of confidence closing the ball down all over the park, getting out wide quickly, Parsons needing to close down Lockett she skips inside from the right. The hosts unable to get the ball into Symonds up top can’t get anyone close to support her. Moreton and Blackie putting in good tackles to get Billericay back on the offensive. 

 GOAL! Chaos in the box as Billericay surge forwards Drewe with the ball on the left sending a cross flashing in across the six yard box to the far post O’Shea close in attacking it knocks in back down across the face of goal, Norwich don’t clear. sliding in one of Billericay’s attacker sends a shoot racing goalwards strikes the under side of the cross bar dropping down into the six yard box where O’Shea quickest to react to tap the ball over the line for her first of the season 0-4.

  25 minutes played and Billericay have a firm grip on the game, Norwich rocked and struggling to regroup as Rushen 30 yards out left of goal drags a shot wide. Bishop on the ball for Norwich looks to play it long for Stanley on the move, Ellie Jeffkins at the back deals with the threat comfortably for the visitors. A chance for the hosts to get players up into the box as Moreton gives away a free-kick inside their half. Leah Harper from the right clipping it into the box, Rushen back to defend gets a good header on the ball to clear for Billericay.  

 O’Shea races away in behind on the right of attack for Billericay goes inside before flashing a cross/shot along the goal face Norwich clearing at the far post. Rushen central with another pinpoint pass to find Lockett moving left into the box wide of goal looks to check inside create a better shooting angle, Parsons does fantastically well for Norwich getting in on her to make a strong but fair tackle. Walford the busier of the two goalkeeper down at her near post to gather as a shot is rifled in. Moments later comes out to the top of her area well to make a blocking save against Lockett closing in from the left. 

  Bishop recieves the first yellow card of the game as she slides in to bring down Lockett centrally as the striker drives towards the box giving Billericay a free-kick in a dangerous position. 20 yards out to the left side of the D, Lucy Jones over it goes for goal blasted in Walford doesn’t react the ball smashing against the fence behind her goal. No doubt Norwich are rattled at conceding 4 goals on the back foot can’t get anything going in attack, Billericay playing their part not letting anyone settle on the ball, lack of movement hindering the outlet ball being found, Symonds often alone up top marshalled well by the Billericay defence. 

Billericay defender, Ellie Jeffkins

  Stanley played in by Leilah Gooding central puts a good crossfield pass into Samara Nche on the right, has Symonds making a run into the channel ahead of her, Blackie and Morton  combining to slow her down and regain possession, Drewe picked out on the left, Harper sliding in to halt her advance. Parsons with another last ditch crunching tackle on O’Shea as she threatens to burst into the box as Drewe sets her up from the left. Billericay continue to press on the left Drewe wide firing a dipping ball in Parsons can’t get high enough to clear near post the ball though drops wide of the far post.  

Half-time Norwich City Women 0-4 Billericay Town Women

  A dominant first half display from Billericay to get their season of to a fine start taking an early lead if somewhat in controversial means, nevertheless capitalised strong in the final 3rd quick on the ball scoring two more in quick succession before adding a 4th whilst keeping Norwich quiet at the other end the host yet to trouble the keeper have seen little action in the final 3rd. Backs to the wall the hosts have a mountain to climb if they hop to salvage anything from the game half-time a chance to regroup if they are you think the next goal has to be theirs’s and it will have to come early on.

The hosts making a change at the break with Aimee Durrant coming on for Nche on the right side. No changes for Billericay as Norwich get the 2nd period underway win a corner on the right side early on bring players up from the back, the delivery in near post headed on by a defender onto the roof of the net for a 2nd corner, again from the right is dropped in centrally headed clear by the Billericay defence.

 GOAL! The break on the ball pushed up to Lockett bursting on through the middle takes it on into her stride has Drewe breaking on the left rolls the ball on into her feet the left sided attacker moving the ball on into the area before stroking a shot wide of the keeper and in 0-5.

  The perfect start to the 2nd half for Billericay, the worst case scenario for Norwich. Billericay full of confidence getting forwards at will O’Shea with her pace breaks forwards central with Lockett to her right picks her out the ball into the box claimed by Walford at her near post. Norwich rocked, have been on the back foot throughout, Drake sliding in to get the ball back Gooding clips into Durrant right side attempts to drive on, Jones putting in the tackle for Billericay. 

Norwich’s, Aimee Durrant

  Blackie with the forward pass into Rushen outside the box, shifts the ball between her feet 20 yards out before releasing a shot, blocked it skips up for Lockett to chip over the keeper and into the goal beyond but it won’t count as her celebrations a cut short by a raised offside flag. Durrant getting hold of the ball is looking to get up to support Symonds feeds the ball into her path out on the right Symonds has to go it alone no one in the box, pushing on Lumley closes her down to make the tackle regain possession. Harper with a rare opportunity to get forwards from the back for Norwich on the right delivers an early cross into the box, Mullett can claim it high unchallenged inside her six yard box. 

Jay Blackie controlling the midfield for Billericay

 Drewe shifts the ball between her feet left side looking to skip past one player, going down the line rides another tackle before squaring the ball into the area from the by-line Walford down inside her six yard box to lay claim to the ball. 

  Remains high tempo from Billericay, Norwich with no respite as Jones powers forwards on the left making it to the by-line before hooking a cross into the near post O’Shea attacking in close on the goalkeeper, takes a deflection off Walford on its way wide giving the visitors a corner. Taken short before being sent long to the far post where no one can get a touch on it before it runs out of play.

 Billericay make their first change on 55 minutes bringing off Morton on in her place comes Leonie Bezant to make her debut. The visitors remain rapid in their build up play Rushen on to Lockett who turns and shoots right outside the D the effort straight at Wolford in the Norwich goal. Daviss on the overlap with Symonds for Norwich just too much on the final ball allowing Billericay to clear. O’Shea wins the ball high up the pitch right side turns and strikes a shot in on the angle from 25 yards out, well struck but Walford sees it all the way.

  Drewe closing in on the top of the box left side sends a cross in along the 18 yard line, Lockett goes to strike it first time her effort is blocked by the Norwich defence. The visitors are attacking at will Lockett picking it up central has Rushen breaking on towards the area passes the ball, Rushen checks back playing it back to the advancing Bezant, she attempts to thread it through for O’Shea central, cut out by Johnston deflects to Drewe left side her cross sent in towards the far post is attacked by Lockett but she can’t get anything on the ball. Drewe’s last action of the game as she is replaced by Ruby Sealey who goes to the right of attack Lockett coming left.

 GOAL! Billericay continue to get forwards at will O’Shea finding space around the top of the box it is Rushen with the assist in the final 3rd central clipping a diagonal ball into O’Shea on the move in space clipping a shot over the keeper from the top of the area for her 2nd of the match 0-6.

Logan O’Shea on the attack for Billericay

  Billericay making another change this time at the back Jeffkins coming off with Danica Dougal going into a centre back role. Billericay comfortable both ends the defence under no pressure the full back pressing on to help the attack keeping a dispirited Norwich penned back. The hosts just looking for that spark that would at least give them something. Durrant on the right crosses in central Daviss in an advanced position taking it into her feet outside the area moves left then right looking for a way through, Dougal slowing her down before Lumley closes her down to win the ball. 

 A free-kick to Norwich wide right both sides guilty of giving needless fouls away as the game moves into the final 20 minutes. Durrant to play it into the area headed clear Billericay look to break left side, Lockett almost upended as a sliding challenge comes in manages to stay on her feet advantage played goes on Norwich get back as Parsons deals with the ball lifted into the box. 

Mia Lockett managing to keep on her feet after being tackled for Billericay

Into the final 20 minutes and a double change for Billericay as Jones and Rushen are replaced by Freya Fuller and Mayzee Seymour. A long diagonal ball clipped out to the left sees Norwich’s Stanley find her way in behind the Billericay defence into the box Mullett comes to close the angle Stanley looking to lift the ball past her the pair collide, Mullett pole-axed on the ground Stanley is after the deflected ball out to the left the angle tight digs a shot out but the visiting defence is round on the cover to clear on the line. Play stopped so the goalkeeper can receive treatment. Groggy but able to continue Mullett is clapped by the crowd as she gets back to her feet.

Winning the ball at the back Johnston sends it forwards for Durrant bursting into space on the right, Lumley getting across well from centre back to put in the tackle prevent Durrant going on. Both sides tiring challenges late leading to free-kicks late in the game, Lockett brought down 25 yards out on the left O’Shea playing it short to Blackie, closed down well by Drake up to Symonds clear on the right Mullett alert out of her area onto it launching back upfield. Norwich make a 2nd change Katie Walker coming no for Drake with 10 minutes left to play. The substitute combining with Symonds on the right as Norwich attack put in central Durrant never gets it under control as she drags her 25 yard shot wide of the mark.

GOAL! 7th heaven for Billericay as another player claims a goal on her debut and is a superb strike to boot as the visitors break attacking right side the ball squared inside 25 yards out Bezant on the end of it unmarked strikes the ball hard whipping it up and over the keeper to score 0-7.

A goal on debut for Leonie Bezant.

A change at the back for Norwich with Izzy Collins going it at centre back late on Johnston pushed up.

GOAL! Billericay make it a quick fire double to extend their lead further coming right a ball sent up into the area attacked near side by Bezant knocked up into the air Norwich can’t deal with the threat dropping pops out to the right straight into the path of Fuller who drills her volley in from close range 0-8.

Lockett picking up a yellow card in the closing stages as the foul count keeps rising. Norwich frustrated nothing they’ve tried has come off, Billericay adding goals late on keeping their energy levels high. Lumley getting forwards with the ball playing it into Rushen central turns into traffic, Parsons urging her side on. The game long settled however the visitors celebrating a convincing win to open their campaign.

Billericay captain, Courtney Lumley

Full time Norwich City Women 0-8 Billericay Town Women

  A convincing performance from start to finish for Billericay to get their season off to a fantastic start, on top right from the start with a somewhat controversial goal nevertheless got them on the front foot, don’t know how much it unsettled Norwich certainly the hosts struggled to get going Billericay strong in the final third their front 3 pushing on Drewe and O’Shea using the width well kept Norwich penned in. Scoring 3 goals in quick succession taking the game by the scruff of the net looked comfortable even untroubled in defence. An early goal 2nd half killing off any hope Norwich had of getting back into the match. Lively and energetic Billericay have laid down a marker to the rest of the sides in the division. An opening day to forget for Norwich never got going never got to grips with the midfield and never allowed any time on the ball couldn’t find an outlet ball. Can only look to put it behind them get on the training ground and regroup.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. No surprise it’s going to be a Billericay player the question is which one. Was a strong team performance the driving force being the attacking trio, Mia Lockett full of pace bursting forwards into space central setting up a number of chances. Likewise on the left Shannan Drewe with a strong performance on debut moving well out on the flank coming inside taking her two goals well. The award though goes to Logan O’Shea attacking on the the right was a handful for the Norwich defence throughout and constantly available as Billericay looked to get on the front foot throughout the match scoring two goals.

  It’s good to be back covering games and look forwards to many more this season. Always say I’ll try writing less but I never do. Women’s football is often action packed from start to finish. Never know what the report will look like just let the words flow. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the all important team details a contrasting day wish both all the best for the season ahead.

by Darren Gilham

 

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Tuesday 29th September

FAWNL South East Division One

 First spot of midweek action on Women’s Football East this Tuesday evening and a derby match to boot, the first Cambridge derby of the season as Cambridge City Ladies host rivals Cambridge United WFC in FAWNL South East Division One.

  The games coming thick and fast with both sides in action on Sunday playing again 48 hours later. Have enjoyed a keen and some times contentious rivalry, the past seeing what is Cambridge United WFC now break away from Cambridge City to become an established force the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid. City getting their women’s side un and running enjoying a rapid rise through the pyramid to achieve promotion to the FAWNL themselves the season before last that one of course curtailed by the COVID outbreak, retain their place for the 20/21 campaign.

   A tough start to the new season for Cambridge City Ladies, beaten 4-0 at home on the opening day by Essex side Billericay Town Ladies. Were looking to make amends away to Norwich City Women this weekend had their chances coming back from 1-0 at half-time to level the scores before the hosts went on to win the game 3-1. Nothing in the board from their opening two games a derby match under the lights a good opportunity to get their season going.  With goalkeeper Dominika Szary leaving the club have recruited Sarah Hudson from Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. Another new signing also from Peterborough North Star is midfielder, Bronwyn Mulheron.

Cambridge United WFC got the new season off to a fantastic start with a 4-1 win at home to Norwich City Women. A trip down to Essex this Sunday to face Hashtag United Women (previously AFC Basildon Women) Like City they had their chances trailing 2-1 at half-time eventually losing 3-1. Have brought in a few new faces to add depth to the squad, attacker Samaira Khan scoring in both opening games, winger Laura Mitchell and centre back Grace Waygood amongst them. A good test of fitness for both sides with a game coming so soon after the weekend.

Ely City FC the venue for tonight derby match, now situated behind a large cinema, restaurant and bar complex on the outskirts of Ely off the A10. Now home for Cambridge City Ladies was once the home for Cambridge United WFC too. A wide grass pitch, an elevated seated stand above the changing rooms the clubhouse and kitchen along side. Hot drinks available. COVID regulations well observed. A pretty miserable day with rain in the morning, softening up the playing surface, a dry overcast evening with a touch of fog around. 

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Ceri Flye, Becca Fay (C), Bronwyn Mulheron, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Freya Standing, Sarah Mosley & Karly Tolentino.  Subs – Shannon Shaw, Amie Fullwood, Grace Stanley, Libby O’Callaghan & Ellie Cullum.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Amy Butler, Charlotte Crisp, Carrie Bennett, Grace Waygood, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Gisela Otten, Albany Hodgson, Emma Jenkins, Amy Howlett, Laura Mitchell & Samaira Khan. Subs – Lauren Webb, Tori Lawless, Jemma Moore, Abi Davies & Ella Mercer.

  As with these derbies they’ll be City and United from now on. A late change for United seeing Tori Lawless picking up an injury in the warm up. Albany Hodgson starting alongside Gisela Otten in midfield. It’s City to get the 1st half underway, wearing their home colours, white shirts and black shorts with black and white hooped socks. United opposite wearing amber coloured shirt, black shorts and socks.  The ball put back towards the defence is lifted out long to the right with Charlotte Gillies making a run on the wing, Otten quickly across to tackle and send the ball out for a throw. 

 United’s first attack sees Laura Mitchell fouled wide right an early opportunity for the visitors to get players up into the box the delivery sent in headed away by City defender, Ceri Flye. Up on the left wing Freya Standing looks to get the ball and take on the United defence, captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt across to support Charlotte Crisp the ball regained, United push forwards the ball up on their right win a corner kick.

  GOAL! From the corner United catch City napping with a short delivery up the line the ball put back to the corner taker fired into the box on the angle at the near post is turned home by Otten at close range to open the scoring 0-1.

Cambridge United WFC’s Gisela Otten with the opening goal

  Very much a derby match the pace furious the no time dwelling on the ball both sides looking to get it forwards rapidly, Emma Jenkins with a run on the left side for United, drops her shoulder to come inside, Amy Reed getting her toe on the ball to take it away from her. Sent long up the right wing for Gillies City win a corner deep inside United territory this bringing their 1st corner of the match. The delivery in the area knocked down is pushed out back to the taker, played back in towards the top of the area Karly Tolentino latching onto it, jinks into the area right of the D putting her effort wide at the near post. 

   Jenkins succeeds in getting inside this time advancing up the left 20 yards out lines up a strike the ball put straight at Sarah Hudson back on her line. Amy Howlett is clipped as she comes to the right to receive the ball for United winning a free-kick 25 yards out. Crisp placing the ball down floated her delivery into the box near side attacked a glancing header deflecting it wide of goal a goal kick signalled. Good battles taking shape all over the park, Gillies and Standing on the flanks for City looking lively getting forwards rapidly when their defence regains possession. Jenkins and Mitchell likewise left and right for United, the full backs for both sides are going to have to stay alert. 

  Standing getting away on the left sees United exposed at the back space to run into fires a cross into the area Tolentino heading in down, Carrie Bennett around on the cover half clearing before the visitors are forced to concede a corner. The initial delivery cleared from the corner, City regain possession 30 yards out a powerful strike driven back in Amy Butler covering her near post with a comfortable save taking it high. Sofia Castiglione latching onto a loose pass from United inside their half right side rolls it forwards for Tolentino peeling off the shoulder of her defender in behind squaring the ball across the top of the area Standing arriving left side clipping her first time strike up over the bar. 

 Samaira Khan leading the line for United, is being closely marked by the City centre backs, coming out to the left managing to win a throw the ball touched on is crossed into the box, Howlett inside right of the D letting it come across her to strike a rising shot, not enough to evade Hudson who has come across the Howlett to put herself behind strike and claim comfortably. Standing and Gillies continue to cause problems for United, the latter coming inside as the ball is played up to Tolentino the pair playing a one too to put Gillies into space on the right flashes in a cross the ball swerving through the air seen safely wide at the far post. Can’t take your eyes off the action for a second and there aren’t too many seconds where there isn’t any action. 

  Khan winning a throw deep on  the left, drops it down to Jenkins who squares her pass inside for Otten getting forwards all of 30 yards out isn’t closed down takes on an ambitious effort her shot high, dipping significantly late on Hudson watching it though can see it drop over her crossbar. Very competitive with a few niggly fouls being conceded, very much a derby match the crowd playing there part too. Castiglione is getting hold of the ball winning it for City giving the hosts impetuous in their attacking play out for Gillies racing in to the corner on the right sending a cross in from the by line Tolentino getting across the defence spinning into a shot sends her attempt over the top. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Karly Tolentino

  Sarah Mosley blasting a shot wide from the best part of 25 yards out left side as the ball rebounds back to her with City marauding down the flank. Mitchell gets on down the right winning a corner for United, swung in near post City defending the ball comes straight to Jenkins outside the box, doesn’t need an invite to shot does and powers the ball wide of the mark. Burt up the other end clearing the ball from inside the area as Mosley threading a ball on for Gillies right sees a corner conceded. A proper derby 50/50 between Mosley and Otten on halfway, Otten getting it forwards for Khan, closely marked by Flye can’t get in behind.

   Leading the attack for City Tolentino is prepared to drop deep to receive with Gillies and Standing ready to race on behind to get onto the ball, Tolentino heads the ball on for Gillies right side her cross taken early racing across the top of the area looking to pick out Standing far side, Crisp getting in front of her to cut it out for United. Lauren Tomlinson winning the ball at left back as United come forwards brings it on flashing a cross inside for Standing 20 yards out left of the D, striking it goalwards Butler down low to collect it .Howlett nipping in to win the ball centrally for United looks to make ground, Bronwyn Mulheron going with her catching her to lung in take the ball away from her, Howlett still interested after the loose ball until Tomlinson racing inside from left back launches it upfield. 

 Castiglione lines up a well hit strike from 30 yards out, would have run wide of her left post Butler though diving has it safely in her gloves wastes no time in releasing it as United look to try and reassert themselves on the game. Albany Hodgson wins the ball centrally for United lays it on for Khan in attack, hasn’t had too much support around her with City keeping their opponents full backs occupied looks to go it alone driving at the City defence shifting to her right to open up space for a shot on target Hudson though right behind it. 

  GOAL! City mount a rapid attack down their left Tomlinson getting it back from Standing racing on with the ball down the line cutting inside smashes in a pacy ball to the near post Butler down smartly to glove the ball away, running out to the top of the area Standing after it is shoved to the ground the referee pointing to the penalty spot. Castiglione placing the ball on the spot, a coolly taken penalty sending the keeper the wrong way lifted to into the back of the net 1-1. City equalising with 10 minutes left in the first half.

Sofia Castiglione equalises from the penalty spot for Cambridge City Ladies

   City tails up now having pulled the scores level, Castiglione almost putting Gillie in behind on the right, Bennett reading the pass however sliding in to make a vital interception. Simmering a little bit, fouls given away arms raised in frustration passes going astray. United want to get the ball into Khan so she can turn and take on the City defence, Castiglione and Mulheron first to the ball. 

  GOAL! Just as City look to have the momentum United get forwards with a well played attack to restore their lead. Won by Hodgson central her pass lifted up to Khan to knock down to Jenkins running on to the left plays a good weighted cross into the area, Mitchell getting in from the right flank composed under challenge to strike her rising shot wide of the keeper to score 1-2.

Laura Mitchell, with Lauren Tomlinson restores United’s lead

  Otten coming across to the right sides stops Reed in her tracks as the full back wriggles free with the ball looks to advance down the wing. Castiglione putting her head on a ball put forwards by United knocks it down and carries it right into space before whipping a cross into the area, Burt clearing for United the final action of the first half.   

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Cambridge United WFC

  An action packed first half, certainly has a derby feel to it, played at a fast tempo, plenty of energy expended by both sides, may well begin to show 2nd half with both sides having been in action on Sunday too. The perfect start for United taking the lead inside the opening 3 minutes from a corner. Took City a little while to get into their stride but have looked a constant threat attacking down the flanks forcing the pace, first to the ball. Equalising from the penalty spot. United showing great character in response restoring the lead minutes later to go in with a 2-1 lead at the break. Suspect City with come out of the blocks with all guns blazing at the start of the 2n half, United if they can can will be looking to nullify that threat with an early goal of their own.

  No changes at the break with United getting the 2nd half underway. Play the ball right as Mitchell runs on her first touch giving Tomlinson the advantage putting her foot in to clear the ball. Castiglione up for Tolentino in attack Gillies up with her, Burt in between the pair getting hold of the ball for United. Gillies full of running on the right for City, Waygood out to meet her this time clearing for a throw in. From the throw City launch a cross into the box, Burt heading it away for United. The visitors look to break the ball up to Khan is fouled 30 yards out from goal right side. Mitchell clipping the ball in towards the far post the ball attacked City scramble it away as Jenkins almost gets there. City hit United on the break, but the visitor get bodies back to slow the ball down

 Remains end to end, United struggling to get it to stick up top, not getting players in and around Khan, Fay on her tackling as she attempts to turn in behind her. Hodgson coming back to get the ball back as Standing aims to get onto a crossfield pass. Butler called into action saving low at her near post as Gillies drives in a shot on the angle from the right. City with the first change of the match Mosley the player off on comes Ellie Cullum. Otten picking the ball up from her defence plays it long towards the top of the area Mulheron lunging to intercept deflecting it to Tomlinson to get City moving on the left. Getting tense between the sides United certainly finding it frustrating the ball not running there way at the moment. Standing getting in behind left side for City puts the ball square in towards the near post Gillies racing into the area not picked up sending it wide.

  GOAL! City have looked the most likely to score there 2nd on 58 minutes attacking the ball right side clipped up to Gillies brings it down into her path driving towards the box drops her shoulder shaping to come inside, drags it away to her right into the area to create the space before smashing a venomous shot past the keeper into the back of the goal 2-2. 

City celebrate as Charlotte Gillies (no 7) equalises to make it 2-2

  City are doing well haven’t dropped the tempo at all the goal giving them renewed energy, Standing coming inside central as Tolentino knocks the ball into her run, her snap shot 20 yards out dipping safely held by Butler. The hosts first to the ball, United getting ragged with their passing, Howlett picking it up in the middle turns well evading a sliding challenge has Khan ahead of her looking to peel of Fay, the pass doesn’t pick her out as Fay intercepts. 

Gillies providing the outlet constantly on the right a looping diagonal ball from Mulheron picking her out takes it on before sending in a 20 yards strike on the angle, Butler down saving at her near post. Mitchell out wide right on for Khan looking to peel in behind Fay again the ball evading her this time Flye is across quickly in support to clear before Khan can strike the ball. 

 United make their first change Hodgson coming off with Abi Davies coming on. Mitchell getting on well right side closer to Khan now putting the ball up into the area the attacker backing up inside the box to break the ball down, slips as she attempts to turn inside with it. Khan fouls Tomlinson as she looks o send the ball upfield. The free-kick from distance evading everyone gathered inside the D, bouncing in as held by Butler beyond. Burt running across the top of her area puts on the blocking tackle on Gillies as she looks to hit it first time as the ball is rolled into her rom Cullum. A few tempers fraying getting a little heated between the sides United looking to be tiring as City retain their furious pace getting first to the ball, Castiglione winning a good share in the middle of the park now with some good passes. Khan going into the book after fouling Flye, joining Mulheron who was booked first half for City. 

  Gillies running onto the long range free-kick taking it on before blasting it into the keeper at the near post from 25 yards. Gillies seems to be everywhere coming central onto the ball top of the circle opens up her body to strike the ball on target through bodies Butler must see it late does fantastically diving to her left pushing it wide behind for a corner. The set-piece defended well United digging deep rallying the ball cleared by Waygood the ball just won’t fall favourably as Howlett races on with Mitchell. Castiglione and Otten grappling for the ball in the middle of the park, Castiglione squeezing it on for Tolentino, 20 yards out shifts to her right sending in a shot Butler right behind it.

  Is a great watch tense City are pushing for a 3rd goal, United backs to the wall at times are rallying Mitchell pushed up to support Khan, Howlett and Jenkins are coming on too. Gillies across to the left Davies stays on her, Burt across to help tackling well the ball fizzed into Otten sprayed out to Jenkins making a run left side sends it on for Khan peeling off the defence the offside flag bringing the move to an end. The game stretched both sides now feeling it’s there for the taking, Cullum central attempting to pick out Gillies on the left, Davies staying with her cutting the pass out. 

 Khan is brought don attempting to get into the box from the right as Davies sends the ball on to her. Mitchell on the set-piece played along the top of the six yard box, cleared by the City defence. The break on City race on the ball central on for Gillies right channel has Reed in support on the overlap, strikes the ball sail over the bar. Otten is fouled inside the City half the free-kick taken quickly out to Jenkins away on the left her shot on the angle wide across the area taking a deflection for a corner kick.

  GOAL! The game entering the final 10 minutes has been an enthralling contest. United have ridden some strong pressure from City now with a corner on the right a chance to bring players forwards. The delivery whipped in chest height along the six yard box, congested deflected back to the top of the area Jenkins on it lays it back to the taker is frantic inside the box the ball coming out to Howlett 25 yards out right of the D, strikes the ball sending it looping high into the air, Hudson back peddling can’t get anything on it as it drops over her into the net beyond for United to take the lead for the 3rd time in the match 2-3.

Amy Howlett with Sarah Mosley makes it 3-2 to United

  Controversy as the goal is celebrated however as City have a player Tomlinson down inside the six yard box from the initial ball in City are furious claiming it was a head injury and play should have been stopped it wasn’t however and the goal stands. Tomlinson hurting her ankle in the finish receiving treatment. Frustration for City who had looked more likely to find a 3rd goal serves to display the emotion a derby can bring out in a side. City respond with a 2nd change bringing Grace Stanley on for Tomlinson. 

  GOAL! City pile players forwards as they get straight back in search for a reply with the clock running down, Fay travelling forwards into the United half is a long way out left side when she strikes the ball, if it was intentional it was well disguised a one in a million strike launched up high into the air dropping out of the night sky Butler back on her line can’t keep it out as it drops under the bar inside the top corner to make it 3-3!

  Game on! Both sides going for it United break Jenkins left inside for Otten attempts to thread it through for Khan, Flye clearing for City. United come on right side a cross lifted into the box over Khan central, Mitchell behind her can’t bring the ball down. Into stoppage time. The fouls racking up as first Crisp then Otten are brought down the latter getting a free-kick left side the delivery floated into the box Khan heading down looking for a runner far post City attempt to break the ball sent on into the area safe with Butler as the final whistle blows and the points are shared.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 3-3 Cambridge United WFC

  Another fantastic derby game between United and City played at a furious pace, would have taken alot out of both sides, United’s fitness certainly tested by their opponents were on the back foot in the 2nd half as City came back to level the scores for a 2nd time. Looking good to take the lead themselves but United showed character to hold them and retake the lead for the 3rd time themselves. City coming straight back to level. The points shared, United will be frustrated having lost the lead 3 times, City themselves thinking maybe they should have nicked the win, certainly didn’t deserve to lose the game. Highly entertaining.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick another Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few contenders once again. For United Amy Howlett was finding space without getting the rewards. For City, Ceri Flye made several important tackles at the back, Freya Standing a threat on the left coming on, and Sofia Castiglione in the middle got onto top in the midfield came very close but is just edged out by Charlotte Gillies pace and energy on the wing linking up with Tolentino up top and made some terrific runs amongst the goals too.

All of the pictures used in this report produced by Gary Reed, does tremendous work helping to picture and promote the women’s game and I thank him for allowing me to use his photo’s

 An enjoyable 1st derby of the season, certainly a great advert for women’s football in Cambridgeshire. Appreciate the help with the team details as always from both clubs (although I do know most of these players pretty well by now) I have seen them several times now and know it’ll always be intriguing.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 20th September

FAWNL South East Division One

 The new season of FAWNL football starts this Sunday and once again Women’s Football East will be keeping a close eye on both the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One. The 24 sides unchanged from last season due to the COVID outbreak raring to get going once again the leagues promising to be more competitive than ever with some very strong new signing made. Begin the action with a trip to St Neots Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women in South East Division One.

 The 20/21 season starting a month later than usual due to the virus that brought the previous season to an early end. A new season played with strict COVID regulations on place to maximise the safety of both players an supporters. South East Division One has seen several strong signings as the whole of the women’s football pyramid strengthens at both ends. The FAWSL just beginning it’s journey as a professional league at the top. Growth is happening too at the base in the county leagues with 3 new divisions created in the East alone this campaign. That in turn will only serve to strengthen the sides already there including the FAWNL sides competing in tiers 3 and 4.

  Another competitive season promised, two sides looking to improve this season in South East Division On are Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women. Cambridge United WFC moving to a new home at the start of the 2019/20 season moving from Mildenhall Town FC to St Neots Town FC. A move which brought both their 1st and Development sides together training at one facility. Lost a few players during the close season and made a slow start to the season. A change of manager saw Ben Yeomans step up to first team manager results beginning to improve before the season was brought to an abrupt end. Have brought in a few new signings over the close season. Attacker Samaira Khan impressing in the ERWFL with both AFC Dunstable and last season Colney Heath Ladies is dangerous in front of goal testing herself now in the FAWNL. Defender Grace Waygood joins having previously Spurs, so to winger Laura Mitchell who has represented Wales at youth level  and young attacker Ella Mercer.

  Norwich City Women too have found themselves at the wrong end of the FAWNL South East Division One table in recent seasons. Several managerial chances haven’t helped there progress. The Norfolk side bringing in Shaun Howe to lead the 1st team this season has a alot of talented youngsters with a mix of good experience . The league getting stronger with every season can hopefully find the winning formula to get them pushing up the table. Injuries to key players another factor hindering the side at times were dealt a blow in pre-season losing goalkeeper Hope Armstrong to an ACL injury. Have brought in Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls is a good replacement performing very well for Newmarket Town Women in the ERWFL last season. Defender Alice Parker returns to the club as does full back Anna Larkins, who captained Wroxham Women previously an accomplished defender has a good set-piece on her too.

 Needless to say both sides will be looking for and fancy there chances of achieving an opening day win.

  St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium is situated on a new built estate on the outskirts of the town, featuring a small stadium housing the clubhouse and changing room with a seated stand overlooking one side of the grass pitch. An excellent 3G pitch set behind it. One good thing I suppose about this long lay off from football is the pitches have enjoyed a good rest too. The grass pitch looking superb. COVID restriction in place and well observed. The weather bright and sunny blue skies, drinks breaks needed but I did get a cup of tea before kick-off.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Amy Butler, Abi Davis, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Grace Waygood, Tori Lawless, Gisela Otten, Faith Hewitt, Emma Jenkins, Laura Mitchell & Samaira Khan. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Albany Hodgson, Jemma Moore, Charlotte Crisp & Ella Mercer.

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls, Alice Parker, Anna Larkins, Jordan Arnoup, Laura Thacker, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Cullum, Kathryn Stanley & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Izzy Collins, Brooke Osborne, Rosie George, Abi Tate & Leilah Gooding.

  Norwich wearing their away colours, green shirt and shorts with yellow socks to get the first half underway. Lining up opposite Cambridge in their home colours amber coloured shirts with black vertical stripes down the front, black shorts and socks. Technically goalkeeper Amy Butler to is a new signing for the hosts having joined from Colney Heath last season and gotten just one game in before it all came to an end one the bench Liz Pamplin ready to make her 496th appearance for the club if called upon.

  The visitors playing the ball back to their defence, centre back Jordan Arnoup playing a long diagonal pass out to the left wing for Kathryn Stanley to attack, knocks it down the line, right back Abi Davies closing in to tackle and clear for a throw in for Cambridge. The hosts looking to get straight on the counter attack the ball up into midfield sent out to the left Emma Jenkins straying offside. A lively start to the game two sides keen to get going, Cambridge on the right Laura Mitchell pushing in through to Samaira Khan attacking the right channel, centre back Laura Thacker sliding in to push the ball away from her for Quinn-Nicholls to clear out to the wing, Mitchell after in gaining possession and lifting a high cross into the box attacking near post Khan rises we to meet it, the ball looping up to and on the roof of the net. 

Emma Jenkins looking to attack on the left for Cambridge United WFC

  Cambridge press on the right Mitchell driving on winning a corner kick. The delivery into the six yard box cleared back to the taker a second ball put in captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt up from the back getting something on it near side sending in goalwards the ball deflected away. Cambridge with intent early on the ball through the middle finding Jenkins left of the area brings it inside across the top of the area eventually getting a shot away blocked by Thacker comes back to Khan who flashes a shot over from the angle. Norwich mount an attack left side Stanley carrying the ball at her feet a determined run her pass forwards into the box looking for Natasha Snelling closing in on the near post , Grace Waygood close on her to defend the loose ball fired back in flashes wide of goal a corner awarded.

  GOAL! Norwich open the scoring from the resulting corner, the delivery played long to the congested far post the ball ending up knocked down into the six yard box in front of goal on a plate for Natasha Snelling standing a half yard out unmarked to turn over the line for Norwich’s first goal of the season 0-1 with 6 minutes on the clock.

Natasha Snelling opening the scoring for Norwich pictured with Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

  Norwich come on in attack getting numbers forwards Lauren Cullum with a cross field ball out to Snelling left of the area plays it wide to Stanley the pair attempting a one two, Stanley’s ball a little heavy Snelling doing well to retrieve on the by-line cuts it back towards the top of the area, Stanley can’t connect with the shot. The visitors regaining possession in the middle Josie Jarvis to captain Millie Daviss coming on sends a great low ball into the Cambridge area a deflection sending it wide for another corner. Another delivery put in invitingly to the far post however it clears everyone this time around. Cambridge gather far side and get straight on the counter the ball sent up the line for Khan looking to get in behind full back Alice Parker doing well tackling to take it away for a throw.

Norwich’s Kathryn Stanley

   Is a fairly even start the tempo quick play turned around quickly exciting to watch Jenkins taking the ball clear on the left into space put through to Khan wriggling clear right of the D, sets herself to strike Quinn-Nicholls quickly out to close her down making a great blocking save. Won in the middle of the park by Gisela Otten for Cambridge looking forwards sees Jenkins making a run on the left her pass threaded through picking her out takes the ball into the box closing in on the keeper aiming to send a shot across her Quinn-Nicholls diving full length getting a glove to the ball stopping it, loose for a moment Jenkins after it, the Norwich keeper grabbing it to pull safely into her body.

  Daviss covering alot of ground in the middle for Norwich brings it forwards right side into the Cambridge half, passes it to Snelling 20 yards out right side of the area, Carrie Bennett getting in on her to tackle going to ground trapping the ball with her feet before being cleared. Norwich sitting deeper are inviting Cambridge on a bit getting players forwards in attack as Khan gets hold of the ball left side fizzes a ball into the penalty spot, Mitchell attempts to bring it under control shifts it between her feet looking to pull the trigger, Thacker getting a foot in to tackle is deflected out towards the top of the area Otten 20 yards out hitting it first time the ball cannoning off the crossbar.  

 GOAL! 20 minutes played and Cambridge draw the scores level. Khan making some good runs into the channels leading the line picked out on the right by Mitchell the ball at her feet drives into the box closing in on the keeper towards the near post opens up her body well to slot the ball past her into the back of her net to score her first and Cambridge’s of the season 1-1.

Samaira Khan scoring the equaliser on her Cambridge debut

  Is a lively game can’t take your eyes off it for a 2nd, Jenkins getting hold of a misplaced pass at the back for Norwich 25 yards out sends her shot back in straight at the keeper. Khan peeling away into the right is tackled by Parker. Norwich are looking very dangerous on the counter attack the midfield getting the ball out to the wings quickly, with Stanley left and Cullum right. Stanley this time getting half a yard on her marking firing in a shot on the angle 25 yards out flies over the keeper to smash down off the crossbar. The ball still in play to the right cut back into the box Daviss racing in tackled well by Tori Lawless tracking back from midfield.

Norwich captain, Millie Daviss being challenged by Cambridge’s Tori Lawless

   Norwich strike the woodwork again moments later a loose ball 30 yards out struck with venom by midfielder Jodie Drake through everyone inside the Cambridge box Butler sees it late doesn’t move the ball thumping against her left post, One end to the other Cambridge advancing on the right a free-kick awarded a yard outside the box close to the by line players coming up from the back. Burt coming into space asking for it right side given it smashes in a shot low racing wide through the six yard box wide at the far post. Time for a drinks break is pretty warm out there and both sides are putting alot of energy into the game. 

Norwich City Women’s Jodie Drake

  Play resuming Cambridge get forwards winning  corner on the left, the ball played deep knocked up into the air by Burt, Quinn-Nicholls getting a merest of gloves on the ball as it comes down out to the right of goal a shot comes in flashed wide. Up the other end Butler with a great save down low getting good hands out to stop a shot fired in from six yards by Jarvis as Stanley plays her in. Waygood getting to the loose ball first clearing the danger for Cambridge. Fantastic combination play between Lawless and Otten in the middle for Cambridge, as Bennett makes a run left side Otten laying the ball into her she sends a looping pass long into the area for Khan to attack closing in on the keeper, Quinn-Nicholls stays big doing enough to see Khan plant her shot wide of goal.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Grace Waygood

  Snelling catches the Cambridge defence playing a high line is clear to attack the area, only a good starting position from Butler stops her the keeper able to get out and put her foot through the ball before Snelling can send a shot wide of her. Out for a throw on the right taken quickly, Stanley and Daviss link up for the visiting side the ball put in to the top of the area Otten back to win it for Cambridge this time is tripped by Stanley as she tries to bring it away. 

  Cambridge are looking dangerous on corners have a bit of height in their side now one won on the left after a driving run from Khan is put into the mix Norwich half clear, Burt has hung back inside the D the ball straight it her is fired in through bodies towards goals blocked and cleared by Larkins  on the post. Daviss is booked as she brings down Jenkins. The free-kick 35 plus yards out on the left taken by Lawless and flighted ball into the rea knocked down by Khan pushed into Otten top of the area lunging into the shot sends it over the bar. 

Cambridge United WFC captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

  Mitchell on the right taking the ball on well for Cambridge into the channel for Khan holding it up as Mitchell comes on in support the ball put across the area into Jenkins, Arnoup in to win it for Norwich put on into the middle the counter attack is on for a moment it’s two v two with Cambridge caught on half-way but Stanley can’t pick out Snelling as Waygood sticks a leg out to intercept. Waygood with a good ball on from the back picks out Jenkins running on left side, Larkins though gets back on her well coming across her to roll the ball safely back to her keeper to clear.

Norwich City Women’s, Anna Larkins

  Burt sliding in to tackle gets the ball back to Butler inside the D as Cullum and Stanley come together from the flanks to try and carves the hosts open through the middle. Khan with her weaker left foot does get enough power behind the shot as she tries to put it across the keeper inside the box following a good ball in from Mitchell on the right Quinn-Nicholls down to claim the ball.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Norwich City Women

  An exciting first half comes to an end with the scores level at 1-1 could well have been 3-2 to Norwich if the woodwork counted both sides with some excellent chances. The game played at a very high tempo both sides attacking with pace and purpose getting players forwards. Norwich inviting Cambridge on somewhat the hosts showing good movement in the final third. Norwich dangerous on the counter attack, both keepers called into action making good saves beautifully poised for the 2nd half.

Norwich’s Lauren Cullum tackling Cambridge Tori Lawless

   A change for Norwich at the start of the 2nd half Abi Tate on to replace Thacker in the heart of the Norwich defence.  Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway. Play a little disjointed early in neither side getting to pace Larkins coming to tackle Jenkins as she is played in right side, Burt winning the ball at the back as Drake attempts to slide it through to Snelling. Jenkins is really putting in a shift for Cambridge on the left running on as Bennett sends her pass up the line, Arnoup comes across to support Larkins to close her off win the goal-kick.

Norwich’s Natasha Snelling with Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins

  Davis with a vital interception in the box for Cambridge as the ball in fired in from the wing early for Snelling to attempt to run onto. Jenkins getting hold of the ball left side brings it on Khan giving her the run to the left channel the pass along the ground into her feet Khan taking it on closing in on the advancing keeper, Quinn-Nicholls stays big again Khan knocking it wide of her goes to retrieve it on the by line cutting it back into the box Jenkins arriving to strike the ball blocked well by Tate. 

Norwich centre back, Jordan Arnoup

 A scrappier start to the 2nd half alot of energy expanded in the first half neither side on top yet. Tate gives away a free-kick 30 yards out right side to Cambridge. Lawless over the ball dinks in a shot the ball caught low by Quinn-Nicholls on her line.  Tate sliding in moments later on Mitchell outside her box gives away another foul much to the visiting sides complaints that she’d won the ball. 

 GOAL! this one closer in 20 yards out right of the D, Mitchell and Jenkins over the ball as players comes forwards from the back to load the box. Jenkins with the dummy run, Mitchell striking it in across the area to the far post attacked Lawless emerging from the crowd to turn into the goal to give the hosts the lead on the hour 2-1.

Tori Lawless puts Cambridge into the lead 2nd half has enjoyed a good contest with Norwich’s Millie Daviss

  Cambridge coming on strong attacking tails up, Davis winning it in defence laying it down the line for Khan left side is brought down by Larkins bemused that she doesn’t get anything.

GOAL! Cambridge race into a 2 goal lead overlooking the attack on the right Khan fires a diagonal ball into the D, Hewitt making a great run is well placed to get a shot away hitting it sweetly to send in low swinging wide to the keeper’s right 3-1.

Faith Hewitt extends Cambridge’s lead

  Norwich respond with a double change, Rosie George and Brooke Osborne sent on in place of Cullum and Jarvis. Tate flying on with a sliding challenge once more is shown a yellow card as Cambridge are awarded a free-kick right of centre. Burt to play in in towards the top of the area, Norwich struggling to get the ball clear the hosts can’t capitalise. 

  GOAL! A moment of controversy a hot patch for Cambridge sees them score a 4th much to the visiting sides displeasure. Attacking the ball in to the top of the area Khan I think, Tate goes off her feet sliding in to win in doesn’t make contact with anything, referee Romana Bria has covered alot of women’s football and keeps up with play well close to the tackle the Norwich defence stop concerned I feel that having just been booked Tate might be in trouble, warns her to calm down. Whilst this is going on the ball is put out to the right Mitchell running on free into the area lays it across the face of goal for Jenkins to send it home far side 4-1.

  The Norwich players and bench aren’t happy as the goal stands, the referee though never blew the whistle an as players are told often you play to the whistle. Can see why Norwich stopped but play was never stopped. A hard goal to concede. Cambridge though with 3 goals in nine minutes have gotten themselves into a fantastic position. A crunching 50/50 tackle between Khan and Tate sees the Norwich defender down hurt and play stopped so she can be treated and drinks. 

 Tate is okay to continue Norwich with a chance to regroup. Stanley on the ball 30 yards out right side clips it into George top of the area she connects with the ball flashing her shot wide of the near post. The visitors get forwards winning a free-kick 30 yards out, Daviss an Snelling over the ball, it’s Snelling who takes on the shot up over the wall on target but caught high by Butler drifting across her line. Cambridge make a change Jenkins has ran herself into the ground makes way for Ella Mercer to make her Cambridge debut up front as Khan moves to the left. 

Norwich’s Abi Tate winning the ball from Cambridge’s Ella Mercer

  Lawless feeds a pass through to Khan on the left side she cuts it across the top of the area into the advancing Hewitt to clip her first time strike over the bar. Space beginning to open up as both sides begin to tire, Norwich see an attack break down Mercer making a run into space on the right for Cambridge Hewitt picks her out with the pass takes the ball onto into the box closing in on the keeper sends her shot high beating Quinn-Nicholls but has the angle covered well the rising ball coming back off the post. A second change for Cambridge Charlotte Crisp comes in on place of Lawless. 

  Their lead giving Cambridge renewed energy the hosts push on in attack Otten sending a 20 yard ball into Mitchell closing in n the box she shots her effort rising over the bar. Cambridge winning a free-kick on the right Crisp to play a diagonal ball invitingly into the box Tate rising well to head behind for a corner. The corner on the left in at the near post defended by George out behind for a 2nd corner. This one taken short put up the line before being delivered is deflected behind a goal kick awarded. The game heading into the final minute of normal time. Khan dragging a shot wide as she attacks on the right. 

  Norwich get up the other end George right cutting a ball in towards the top of the area Snelling there right of the D, both Burt and Waygood in to prevent her getting a shot away the ball cleared to the right Norwich keep up the attack another cross comes in Snelling with the shot a combination of keeper post preventing a goal. Cambridge continue to press the attack looking for another goal the ball threaded through into the box Mitchell right squaring it central for Khan her shot blocked at point blank range comes back to Mitchell who flashes a shot wide across the six yard box a corner awarded. The delivery into the six yard box headed over by Khan as the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 4-1 Norwich City Women

  An opening day win for Cambridge United WFC beating Norwich City Women 4-1. A victory that will give them a great deal of confidence at the start of the season. A strong start to the 2nd half getting getting into the lead and quickly adding 2 more goals to get themselves into a strong position, were fluid in attack creating several chances, there midfield winning the ball more often in the 2nd period. Was a pretty even first half however, both sides attacking with purpose made for an exciting contest Norwich taking the lead, Cambridge coming back well to equalise. 3 goals in 9 minutes in the 2nd half changing the game. The 4th goal controversial no doubt. Cambridge deserved winners in the end. Norwich I suspect will be hit hard by that 4th goal but for an hour I thought the game could go either way looked very dangerous on the counter attack in particular.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, clearly the intent this season is not for it to be an easy decision. Several contenders once again. A few performances to mention, firstly Millie Daviss for Norwich, the amount of ground she covered was superb to try and break up Cambridge attacks. For Cambridge Tori Lawless worked the ball well making some great tackles and runs. Emma Jenkins made herself constantly available on the left side, with Laura Mitchell impressing on her Cambridge debut on the right. The award though goes to another Cambridge debutant Samaira Khan scored her first goal for the club and as the spearhead of the attack made some fantastic runs into the channels to receive a pass.

   A fantastic opening game from FAWNL South East Division One fast paced, between two determined sides, bodes well for the season ahead. As always my thanks and appreciation to both sides for the team info.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March

FAWNL Plate

A much delayed quarter final tie for Watford Ladies the club finally playing their game against Chichester City Ladies after a month. Winning through to the semi-finals Watford faced another long journey this time to the North West to play Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women in the semi-final. That game suffering from postponement last Sunday the Southern Premier Division side haven’t played a league match since the final weekend of January. At last this Sunday the game was on better weather finally. Few chances created on the first period a close contest the pair going in all square at the break 0-0.

  The 2nd half starting in the same vein, Watford going down to 10 on the hour with goalkeeper Nina Wilson sent off for handling outside the area. 2nd half substitute Hattie Kettle going in between the posts. Watford with a good response after going down to 10, Alysha Stojko-Down shooting wide. The game into the final 20 minutes Watford get their noses in front a good ball to see Anne Meiwald through on goal her initial strike hitting the post is closing in on the follow-up to tuck away the rebound. Both sides down to 10 with 10 minutes left Middlesborough’s Rebekah Bass red carded for an off the ball incident. Watford push on in the final minutes a god chance on 87 minutes the game sealed in the 90th minute Megan Chandler in to win the ball outside the box with a fantastic strike to make it 2-0.

Watford will play West Bromwich Albion Women in this season’s Plate final the game taking place on Sunday 22nd March at Stafford FC.

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Wet weather was to affect the FAWNL Southern Premier Division elsewhere with the games between Chichester City Ladies and Gillingham Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies called off. Two matches surviving. A mid-week victory for Oxford United Women 2-1 at home to Milton Keynes Dons Women saw them climb up above Plymouth Argyle Ladies into 3rd spot on goal difference, were back at home this Sunday taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Oxford opening the scoring in the 23rd minute pressure from the hosts around the penalty box the ball put into Kayleigh Hines 25 yards out an impressive strike clipping the woodwork in its way in to the top corner. Portsmouth coming on well both sides creating chances a gritty game at times the visitors back on level terms just past the half hour getting forwards the ball flashed in across the face of goal Hayley Bridge arriving at the far post to make it 1-1. Oxford with good chances to retake the lead however it was  level at half-time Oxford had to dig in at times as Portsmouth came on 2nd half both sides with opportunities in front of goal, the winner coming in the 75th minute ex-Portsmouth player Daisy McLachlan lashing the ball home after coming in at the far post. 2-1 to Oxford close the gap to 2nd placed Watford to a point albeit Watford have 3 games in hand.

Plymouth Argyle Ladies too closing the point to Watford to a point on 14 games the same as Oxford United Women, at home this Sunday hosting 2nd bottom side Hounslow Women. Plymouth getting forwards well chances coming opened the scoring just past the half hour winning a corner kick a low ball played in by Helen Bleazard, Ebony Dover laying it on for Lydia Huntley to slot past the keeper for her first goal of the season. The advantage doubled 2 minutes before the half-time whistle Bleazard playing Dover through to put her shot past the keeper. A 2-0 lead for Plymouth, a quickly reply from Hounslow Women at the start of the 2nd half getting it back to 2-1 straight away. Plymouth settling after that coming on in search of a third goal Hounslow battling well to keep them out keeping the scoreline tight but not able to find an equalising goal Plymouth finishing 2-1 winners.

FAWNL South East Division One

Battles shaping up at both ends of the FAWNL South East Division One table. The top half of the table competitive right from the start the tussle at the bottom livening up in recent weeks as sides attempt to get themselves out of trouble. A host of international call-ups seeing Ipswich Town Women leading the table not played another opportunity for AFC Wimbledon Ladies to return to within a point of the leaders, wouldn’t be easy though away to 6th placed Enfield Town Ladies at the weekend. Sarah Wentworth with her first goal of the season firing Wimbledon into the lead inside 5 minutes getting into box sending her strike up high into the net to make it 1-0. Enfield with a quick reply back on level terms just 6 minutes later captain Nuala McKevitt on the scoresheet from a corner. Chances coming for both sides Enfield hitting the crossbar. A cracking strike from Elizabeth Berkeley putting Wimbledon back into the lead in the 33rd minute. The visitors 2-1 up at the break. A bright start to the 2nd half Enfield awarded a penalty on 54 minutes, Beth Lumsden stepping up to put Enfield level at 2-2. Wimbledon straight up the other end to retake the lead Rosie Russell smashing the ball home from inside the box to make it 3-2 with her first strike of the season. The game into the final 15 minutes a fantastic run from Georgia Heasman before setting up substitute Helen Ogle to find the back of the net and put Wimbledon 4-2 up. The gap to Ipswich back to a point wit both having played 14.

AFC Basildon Women have won 6 in a row to climb up to 3rd spot in the South East Division One table were hosting 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC at the weekend looking to make it 7 straight league wins. Their opponents the last side to beat them in the league back in September a 3-0 win in the reverse fixture. Basildon on top in the first half unable to break the deadlock the pair going into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A goal ruled out for offside for Basildon right at the start of the 2nd half. Basildon finally getting their noses in front midway through the 2nd half, awarded a free-kick, Poppy Binding’s strike getting a touch of the Leyton Orient defence on it’s way through to goal. Kelly Wealthall and Holly Turner both coming close to doubling the lead. The game into the final 15 minutes, Courtney Clarke down the left putting the ball into Turner inside the box for a composed finish to make it 2-0. Leyton Orient pressing but unable to find a reply as Basildon extend their winning run. 

Holly Turner finishing at the near post to put Basildon 2-0 up (photo credit Jason Clogg)

Billericay Town Ladies stay a point behind Basildon fourth in the South East Division One table with two games in hand as they won at ‘home’ to Actonians Ladies on Sunday, enjoyed an exciting match in the Women’s FA Cup at the start of the year. Postponed from last week rearranged for this Billericay winning more comfortably this weekend the game a Malden, Therese Addison sending the ball past the advancing keeper to open the scoring would go on to miss a penalty. Ellie Nicholls opening her Billericay account with her first senior goal. Hannah Smith also on target with her 6th of the season. Zoe Rushen celebrating a 2nd half brace going clear as top scorer once again on 13 goals. Billericay winning 5-0.

Crucial games to come at the bottom of the South East Division One table too, Cambridge United WFC winning 1-0 away to bottom side Kent Football United climbing above Stevenage FC Women and Norwich City Women into 8 position as they began a run of 4 games playing the sides down around them including the pair mentioned above a local rivals Cambridge City Ladies. At home this Sunday at St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium were hosting Stevenage FC Women. The featured game on Women’s Football East this Sunday the full match report can be found below this post. Amy Butler making her debut in goal for Cambridge United. Both sides looking to exploit width get up the flanks Stevenage making a good start a couple of chances Ashleigh Deacon causing problems with her pace out on the right getting on with the ball her cross in cut out straight to midfielder Amy Josland at the top of the area hit it back in to open the scoring put Stevenage 1-0 on 19 minutes. Cam close again the woodwork struck, Cambridge United building momentum as the 1st half wore on getting at their opponents with good opportunities before the half-time whistle.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Crisp getting a leg up to block Stevenage’s Nicole Emmings strike on goal.

A narrow advantage for Stevenage at half-time, Cambridge United began the 2nd half well getting forwards quickly an early goal from Amy Howlett ruled out for offside. The hosts winning a corner a good delivery in from the left clearing the keeper near post Faith Hewitt meeting it beyond to nod in from close range. Cambridge United doing well, Stevenage frustrated 2nd half Cambridge United going on to take the lead with 20 minutes left getting forwards well with pace Hewitt on for Kelly Blanchflower to pick out Emma Jenkins left side her cross put into the box saved by Grace Brooks the ball pushed out towards the top of the area Blanchflower quickest to it latching onto the shot firing the ball home to score her 7th goal of the season. Stevenage looking for a reply pushed on but Cambridge United defended well to make it back to back wins and pull further clear from the 4 sides below.

A massive 3 points too for Cambridge City Ladies at the weekend as they won at home to Norwich City Women the 2nd bottom side moving to within two points of the Norfolk side as a result and just one behind Stevenage. Confidence high as Cambridge City beat Histon Ladies 6-0 in mid-week to win this season Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final. Norwich though getting off to a good start taking an early lead winning the ball high from a goal kick a diagonal ball finding top scorer Chelsea Garrett free in the box right of goal shot across the keeper to put the visitors 1-0 up, Cambridge responding well Charlotte Gillies with a good opportunity. Norwich coming close as Aimee Durrant almost broke free into the box stopped by goalkeeper Dominika Szary. The hosts getting back on level terms midway through the 1st half Gillies pace causing problems right side was played in central running on lobbing the keeper to score. Karly Tolentino with a good chance to put Cambridge City in front, got the goal minutes later as she scrambled the ball in at the near post from a corner on the half hour. Cambridge City leading 2-1 at half-time Laura Mills clear firing a shot over early in the 2nd half for the hosts Gillies on the move making it 3-1 on the hour shooting into the bottom corner from the top of the box. Norwich unable to create a clear opportunity up the other end Cambridge City now breathing down their necks have games in hand on both Norwich and Stevenage.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 8th March

FAWNL South East Division One

No storm sweeping in across the country this weekend so for the first time in a month it was nice to make plans early get a game sorted, keen to get some action in from the FAWNL, headed to St Neots Town FC this Sunday to watch Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women. 

  Battles shaping up well at both ends of the table competitive in the top half for the title race and in the bottom half although no one wants to be there a crucial period coming up for the sides wanting to avoid relegation. The two promoted sides Kent Football United and Cambridge City Ladies positioned in the bottom two are just a couple of positive results (if they can find them) from getting clear of trouble, the sides immediately above scrapping for points themselves to keep clear of danger amongst those today’s opponents Cambridge and Stevenage. Norwich in the mix too and all the sides in the bottom five have crunch games against each other coming up.

Cambridge United WFC into the 2nd of a 4 game run against the sides in and around them. An Emma Jenkin’s goal enough to secure all 3 points away to bottom side Kent Football United last weekend lifts them up to 8th in the South East Division One table 5 points clear of the bottom two with a trio of home matches to come starting with Stevenage this afternoon, then local rivals Cambridge City and Norwich City Women at The Abbey Stadium on Weds 18th March. The women’s sides making the switch to a new ground this season now at St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium along with their Development side.

New beginnings bringing mixed fortunes, a new era of sorts an great opportunity to grow a new fan base great facilities but a change in coaching set up saw several player departures before the season started the squad smaller struggling for results early on, out of the cups early. A long period without a game more changes in management Ben Yeomans stetting up from assistant to first team coach. New faces coming in the club has never been sort of positively. The move to St Neots seeing Cambridge United unable to defend the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup this season but now within the catchment area of the Huntingtonshire FA have reached the final of the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Cup, facing St Ives Town Ladies on Thursday 23rd April at Eynesbury Rovers FC.

Stevenage FC Women themselves playing in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup final next Sunday taking on Watford Ladies U23s for the second successive final. Will be Stevenage’s sixth consecutive County Cup final appearance and will be looking to regain the trophy from their opponents. Joining forces with the Stevenage FC Foundation this season were looking to push on become an established side in the FAWNL having recently gained promotion. Injuries a few long term and being unable to secure a main shirt sponsor hampering their season somewhat falling to 10th spot four points clear of the bottom two have been unlucky with some results scoring goals okay just conceding too many. A narrow 3-2 defeat away to Leyton Orient WFC last time out. Beat Cambridge United comfortably 4-0 in the reverse fixture back in September and have home games against the bottom two to come.

Once I’ve successfully negotiated the roadworks on the A14 at Cambridge the venue for today’s game The Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC as well Cambridge United WFC. The entrance to the pitch through the clubhouse hot drinks available onto the stadium itself the grass pitch in great condition offering good width. Dark cloud around and quite breezy didn’t talk of much rain around but short sharp showers would be a feature of the afternoon, one before kick-off as the teams warmed up seeing an early retreat to the changing rooms. Headed to the mainstand myself but the wind blowing straight into it offered little protection. Like to be on the opposite of the pitch however and as the rain died decided to risk it.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Amy Butler, Charlotte Crisp, Carrie Bennett, Albany Hodgson, Jemma Moore, Faith Hewitt, Gisela Otten (C), Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Abi Davies, Kayleigh-Anne Burt & Katie White.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Grace Brooks, Leah Dunnage, Gemma Biggadike, Lucy Webster, Dominique Godbeer, Cara Breckenridge, Amy Josland, Ashleigh Deacon, Tamsyn Sibanda, Amy Makewell (C) & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Charlotte McLucas, Erin Pope & Katie Knell.

Amy Butler making her debut in goal for Cambridge, new arrived from ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies. Allowing Albany Hodgson to rejoin the defence having donned the goalkeeping gloves herself in the last couple of matches, injuries at the back also seeing Charlotte Crisp usually operating in midfield at right back. Stevenage to kick off the first half wearing white shirts with red vertical pinstripes, red shorts and socks. Cambridge opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves black shorts and socks. Playing the ball back towards their defence Cambridge press high the ball released sent long out to the left knocked on into the box, Butler with an early touch of the ball off her line to kick clear.

 Cambridge work the ball through the middle Amber Cantwell putting it out to the right for Amy Howlett running on up the line cuts inside, Stevenage’s Leah Dunnage closing in to put in the tackle prevent a cross. Pace from both sides going forwards Stevenage come on the diagonal pass into Ashleigh Deacon on the right side, bursts on with the ball travelling into the box players rushing on through the middle to join her the ball squared along the top of the six yard box, Hodgson cutting it out for Cambridge. Deacon a threat on the right side early on getting hold of the ball taking it on fires another ball into the six yard box Nicole Emmings seeing it into her feet laying it back to captain Amy Makewell top of the area strikes it back on on target low but well seen by Butler back on her line down to save. 

Cambridge’s Amy Howlett with Stevenage captain Amy Makewell

 A lively start from both sides Faith Hewitt getting hold of the ball on halfway for Cambridge sending it up field to Emma Jenkins on the right Gemma Biggadike staying with her Jenkins forces a corner. The delivery long through the six yard box before being cleared. A crunching 50/50 ball in the middle between Stevenage’s Amy Josland and Cambridge captain Gisela Otten the rebound favouring Stevenage Emmings getting hold of it on the left jinking her way into the area Butler coming to close the angle takes it around wide on the angle shoots the ball landing in the side netting.

Cambridge United WFC captain, Gisela Otten

  Lucy Webster coming across the back line to tackle Jenkins as she gets free on the left for Cambridge. Emmings causing problems in attack for Stevenage moving out to the left head down on the ball looks to get in behind a good tackle from Crisp to regain possession. A good contest in the middle of the park, the ball closed down Cara Breckenridge this time playing the ball to Deacon on the right has Makewell giving her a run ahead of her into the box laying it into her path, Jemma Moore gets across well to lunge in front of her to take the ball away before the attacker can pull the trigger. 

Ashleigh Deacon taking the ball on for Stevenage

  Cantwell getting forwards with the ball at her feet, is brought down, the advantage played as the ball runs straight to Kelley Blanchflower she plays it across the top of the area to Jenkins left side, upended by Webster, Cambridge get the free-kick this time. Jenkins herself to take floating the ball into the area, Stevenage’s Dominique Godbeer winning the header dropping down outside the box, Cantwell after it puts her foot through the ball her strike charged down. Neither side on top getting forwards quickly Cambridge have it on the right a throw won taken quickly Cantwell laying it on up the right for Blanchflower, strong on the ball takes it in towards goal a defender on her shoulder gets a shot away the ball wide across the face of goal. 

Stevenage’s Lucy Webster

 Blanchflower seeing the ball into her feet right channel 25 yards out takes it on into the area Godbeer sliding in as she shoots the deflection seeing the ball come out to Hewitt 20 yards out top of the D strikes it first time screws it high and wide of the left post. Hewitt with a fantastic tackle to win the ball inside the Stevenage half attempts to thread it through for Blanchflower a little too much on it allows Stevenage goalkeeper, Grace Brooks to claim. Both sides looking to get their wide players on the ball Jenkins is fouled as she tries to get into the box coming in from the left. Jenkins has a go for goal a high ball presenting a danger to Brooks back on her line as it drops goalwards… but lands safely on the rook of the net. 

The ball’s there if you look for it a tricky on for Stevenage goalkeeper Grace Brooks to keep an eye on.

 

  GOAL! 19 minute played and the deadlock is broken, Stevenage getting forwards well pressure in the final third, Deacon with the ball right side takes in on towards the corner, players race on through the middle to support Deacon sends a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Hodgson falling cutting it out central sends it out towards the top of the area, straight to Amy Josland she strikes it first time getting curve on the ball sending it swerving away from the keeper into the bottom corner to give the visitors the lead 0-1. 

Amy Josland firing Stevenage into the lead.

 Stevenage lively getting forwards well Makewell giving an option drifting into the right channel the ball fed to her takes it on Moore closing her down the pair tussling for the ball Makewell fouling the free-kick going Cambridge’s way much to her annoyance. Stevenage on through the middle Sibanda inside for Josland, Hodgson intercepting and sending up field to Howlett on the right goes on finding Blanchflower ahead of her powerful with the ball at her feet holding off her marker the angle tight sends her shot into the side netting. 

  Jenkins with the ball left side Hewitt up with her inside 25 yards out gives her the ball, opens her body to clip it forwards for Blanchflower stealing in behind, Brooks down well to save at the strikers feet. Hewitt involved again winning it central her pass finding Cantwell 30 yards out right of goal takes on the shot the ball held by Brooks. Otten with a couple of challenges to slow Stevenage down before a somewhat out of control tackle by Cantwell sliding in gives the visitors a free-kick 25 yards out right of goal. Sibanda over it goes for goal her effort wide of the near post. 

Stevenage striker, Nicole Emmings

  Stevenage coming on well in the last 5 minutes getting bodies forwards pushing Cambridge back Deacon right side a corner won. A good delivery into the six yard box Otten does well to clear for Cambridge play brought back for a head injury to Hodgson. Josland in quick to win the ball, up to Emmings the striker can’t find the room to get a shot away top of the box before being crowded off the ball. A high ball played forwards into the Cambridge area awkward for Hodgson to deal with Makewell in close attention the ball bouncing, Makewell getting to it first hitting it on the angle towards the near post Butler can’t take any chances down to palm it behind for the corner. From the left inswinging into the six yard box Cantwell doing well getting there ahead of Godbeer to put it behind for a 2nd corner on the right. Another good delivery across six yard box Godbeer free this time at the back stick rising to head the ball her effort coming back off the crossbar. 

 Cantwell and Jenkins combine well through the middle for Cambridge, exchanging passes before Jenkins plays it out to Howlett on the right, takes it on Dunnage in to win the ball back for Stevenage. A good take by Brooks low in her box as Cambridge come on Cantwell into Jenkins coming in from the left her shot taking a deflection, Brooks across down to save. Biggadike gets on right side for Stevenage ahead of Deacon fires in a cross/shot towards the near post Butler keeping her eyes on it well gathered even as Emmings lunges at it in front of her. 

Charlotte Crisp getting on with the ball for Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge picking it up in the closing minutes of the 1st half getting forwards better Hewitt winning it on for Blanchflower right of the D a good diagonal ball picks out Jenkins coming in from the left pushes it in cross the top of the six yard box looking to get a shot way just runs too far allows Godbeer to get across her and clear the ball out for a throw right side. Dropping into Blanchflower the Cambridge attacker turns and strikes the ball her effort a foot over the crossbar. 

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Stevenage FC Women

  Stevenage slightly edging the 1st half with a 1-0 going into the break. A competitive game a good battle going on in the middle between Cambridge’s Otten and Hewitt up agianst Stevenage’s Breckenridge and Josland. Both sides looking to get forwards quickly use the width Deacon in particular on the right, Emmings in attack showing good movement, Cantwell with good options left and right with Blanchflower up top. One goal in it the 2nd half will be no less eventful. The rain making a return at half-time the reserve umbrella up just another light shower however as the sides return to the pitch.

No changes made, Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway. A early clearance presented to Blanchflower drifting left has support from Jenkins ahead of her rolls her in her cross into the area cut out by Godbeer for Stevenage. Cambridge making a fast start to the 2nd half the ball won back high play turned around Blanchflower left sends it on towards the box, intercepted by Webster deflects off her legs straight to Cantwell inside the D has Howlett free inside the box to her right plays the pass by even as Howlett’s shot nestles in the bottom corner the whistle blows for a raised flag, offside. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Amy Howlett

Under pressure early on the ball cleared up to the left, Makewell does well to bring it down keep in play putting it back to Sibanda a good strike of the ball to send it up the wing for Emmings running in behind takes it on, Moore getting across to challenge the ball behind for a corner kick. Players come forwards a vicious ball fired in low through the six yard box Emmings lunging at it far post isn’t too far away from making a telling contact. 

Gemma Biggadike challenging Gisela Otten for the ball

 Cambridge sharper to the ball now getting their tackles in high Hewitt out for Howlett right goes on with it, Sibanda getting back to tackle her. Crisp fouled as she gets forwards on the right. The free-kick put high into the area headed clear by Godbeer, Stevenage get on he counter attack Deacon out to Emmings moving right, Moore closing down to send the ball out for a throw. The sun making an appearance a rainbow over the ground. The tempo high Cambridge coming on Cantwell clipped top of the D as she looks to get a shot away a free-kick for Cambridge, Jenkins on it hits it low strikes the wall deflected out to the left more Cambridge pressing brings a corner. The ball cleared Stevenage can’t make any head way in attack as Cambridge come straight back, Cantwell left 20 out looks to thread it into Blanchflower inside the box near post, Brooks just about gets there but a deflection sees the ball behind for a corner.

 GOAL! 56 minutes played and Cambridge equalise scoring from the corner, Cantwell to play it in a good inswinging delivery close over the goalkeeper, players attacking it beyond one of those Hewitt getting her head on the ball nodding it down into the back of the net 1-1. 

Faith Hewitt with the header to put Cambridge United WFC level

  Stevenage with a quick response coming close to retaking the lead within seconds of the restart, the ball into Deacon right side hits it on the run her strike clipping the crossbar. Stevenage come again another effort at goal stabbed wide by Josland from 25 yards out. Blanchflower making some great runs in attack for Cambridge now clear to the right takes the ball on into the corner options limited nevertheless spots Hewitt positioned inside the D sends the ball racing into her Hewitt not quite able to connect. Otten with a strong challenge breaking up a Stevenage attack the visitors frustrated now not getting the ball into their attackers as easily as they did first half. 

Amy Josland in to tackle Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins

  Sibanda with some good tackling left side for Stevenage looking to get on up the field attempts to thread a pass through for Emmings in behind but Butler with a good starting position can get there first to claim. Blanchflower fouled on the left a free-kick awarded. Cantwell to deliver put in close to the keeper, Jenkins up with her Brooks gloving the ball up onto the bar before it goes over. A lively contest both sides going for it Stevenage’s Emmings shows good control on the ball to work it out to Deacon to her left, Moore coming in to close down with a good challenge. 

Cambridge’s Amber Cantwell

 Sibanda getting up to support the attack on the left on to Emmings comes inside striking the ball from 20 yards out, Crisp sticking out a leg getting in the block for Cambridge. Sibanda staying up high left winning a throw keeps the attack alive turning inside to get another shot away again Crisp is there to block near post. Stevenage with a good spell of pressure Emmings has it left on the by-line strong to turn inside sends a cross into the six yard box Makewell there gets a touch the ball send wide at the far post. Stevenage make the first change of the match bringing on Katie Knell for Breckenridge as the rain starts to fall again 20 minutes left to play.

Charlotte Crisp getting a leg out to block Emmings shot

  GOAL! Cambridge regain possession in the middle Hewitt on for Blanchflower left channel sends it on for Jenkins racing away down the wing she fires in a fierce ball into the far post Brooks down to save gloves it away loose out to the top of the box, Blanchflower racing in first to it strikes it hard arrowing into the goal beyond 2-1.

Cambridge striker Kelley Blanchflower holding off Stevenage’s Tamsyn Sibanda

 Stevenage make a 2nd change straight away Erin Pope comes on for Biggadike. Cambridge on the attack good work from Otten winning it central puts it to Blanchflower moving left down the line her ball into the box finds its way through to Howlett, doesn’t get a clean strike of the ball, sliced wide. Cambridge make their first change with Katie White coming on for Jenkins. Pope with a snapshot 20 yards out as the ball is deflected into her path sends it wide of goal. Stevenage pushing players on risk leaving gaps at the back Blanchflower ready to exploit the ball over the top seeing her clear through the middle, Brooks comes out of her area attempting to win the race not quick enough Blanchflower attempts to put it past her fortune favours the keeper as it strikes her legs.

  Crisp taking a quick free-kick up to Blanchflower inside the box Godbeer on her shoulder let of goal manages to get a shot away deflected across the face of goal Howlett retrieving right side puts back in Webster intercepting for Stevenage. Cantwell winning a corner for Cambridge on the right puts in another good delivery Hewitt further out winning the header on target down, cleared on the line by Sibanda. Stevenage with a free-kick on halfway the ball finding Pope top of the D gets a snapshot away blasts it wide of the right post. A third change for Stevenage as Godbeer comes off on comes Charlotte McLucas to make her first team debut. 

Stevenage’s Erin Pope in to tackle Cambridge’s Amy Howlett late on

 Hodgson closing down Emmings to concede a throw as the Stevenage attacker looks to get on right side into the box. A few strong challenges coming in late on both sides giving as good as they get Stevenage keen to get on with the clock running down, Cambridge battling to hold onto their lead. The game heading into stoppage time play frantic, Sibanda tackling Howlett puts it inside to Makewell can’t shake off Otten.

  Cambridge trying to get it down into the corners, easier said than done, Hewitt into Blanchflower, Sibanda closing her down to regain possession doesn’t stick up top, Cantwell cleans out Sibanda as she looks to carry it out on the left, earning her the first yellow card of the game. Into the final minute Crisp bringing the ball on rolled into Blanchflower held up in the Stevenage final 3rd no time to mount one last attack as the final whistle blows and Cambridge win another valuable 3 points.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-1 Stevenage FC Women 

 Cambridge with back to back wins 6 points seeing them pull further clear of the battle at the bottom, Stevenage now very much in it losing today and seeing Cambridge City Ladies win at home to Norwich the 2nd bottom side closing the gap to just a point. Several crucial games to come. A good first half from Stevenage starting well and stayed on the front foot through out the first 45 minutes taking the lead and creating several good opportunities. Cambridge not out of it by any means with chances of their own. The 2nd half very much Cambridge’s started well he pressure paying off equalising from a corner then going onto take the lead with 20 minutes left. Stevenage make then work hard for the 3 points an intriguing contest, Stevenage had chances to level.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few performances of note and a tough one to decide who gets the award. For Stevenage, Ashleigh Deacon was a threat going forwards on the right and Nicole Emmings showed great movement and presence in attack. Tamsyn Sibanda with some fantastic challenges especially 2nd half. For Cambridge Jemma Moore with some timely tackles at the back. Amber Cantwell with good movement and passing spot on from her corners. Kelley Blanchflower in attack always available making good runs creating goal scoring opportunities. Now it gets tough really the final two are neck and neck for me but have to pick one, Faith Hewitt was fantastic in the middle for Cambridge great tackling and good runs forwards supporting the attack, the award though goes to Charlotte Crisp not usually at right back but had an excellent game made several important tackles and blocks.

An enjoyable trip to the Premier Plus Stadium this Sunday, my thanks to both sides for the team details. Will be seeing Stevenage again next Sunday in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final.