Category Archives: FAWPL Cup

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 27th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 Sadly it wasn’t to be for our Lionesses, losing 1-0 to Spain in last Sunday’s Women’s World Cup Final. Nevertheless they have inspired the nation and the future most definitely looks bright for the game across the nation. 

  Back on my travels this weekend to take in a game from the now traditional Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, the sides representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid drawn together with the winning sides going on to contest the League Cup itself with the losing teams going into the League Plate competition. Cambridge United WFC getting their season underway at home taking on fellow Division One South side, Norwich City Women.

 The FAWNL gets stronger season upon season as the talent base grows and the clubs competing in it are needing to grow too. Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women both long established at this level are now enjoying closer ties with their respective men’s clubs to enable players to enjoy better facilities and support along with enhancing the player development pathways and ultimately challenge for the league title itself.

 Cambridge United WFC establishing a women’s board within Cambridge United FC itself, benefitting from playing a number of games at the League One sides Abbey Stadium. Regaining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup as well as the Development side winning last season’s Junior Invitation Cup the club has been busy recruiting new faces over the close season adding depth to squad. Midfielder, Fran Steele joins having been with local rivals Cambridge City Ladies previously vastly experienced a strong presence in the middle of the park. Also joining from City is defender Bronwyn Mulheron recovered now after suffering a dislocated knee last season.

 Zoe Wood (formerly Cross) an ex-England youth international comes back into football with Cambridge after most recently featuring for Lewes in the Championship. Another defender joining with plenty of experience is Jess Morley who has spent the last couple of seasons with Wroxham FC Women in the ERWFL Premier Division. Mistie Fox-Barker is another defensive option joining the squad having been with Royston Town Women in the ERWFL Premier Division. Brooke Cheal-Ferris again adds good playing experience to the squad with Wymondham Town Ladies amongst her previous clubs. While in attack striker Annie Posnett will be looking to make an impact having finished joint top scorer with St Ives Town Ladies in ERWFL Division One North last season. Sophie Marjoram comes in to provide cover and competition for goalkeeper Lauren Webb. With three players stepping up into the 1st team squad from the Development side, Serena Cobb, Beatrice Rogers and Eleanor Townsend.

Norwich City Women now fully integrated with Norwich City FC itself with ex-Bristol City WFC player Flo Allen joining as General Manager. The women’s side at long last getting the opportunity to play at Carrow Road in front of a record breaking crowd with more matches planned there for next season including their league match against Cambridge United WFC in a fortnights time. Also won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in front of a record crowd for that competition at Carrow Road last season. That game manager, Shaun Howes last in charge for the club. Martin Herdman form the North East gaining plenty of experience in England and abroad chosen to take on the role as Norwich look to push on from a resurgent campaign last time out that saw the squad pressing the top two for much of the season.

 Having retained a strong core with a good blend of youth and experience Norwich have like Cambridge been busy during the close season bringing in new faces, most notably goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill who played an important role in East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women’s title challenging campaigns in tier 3 most recently with lots of experience playing at a higher level having been with Norwich several season’s back. Another coming in from Ipswich is U21s player Lauren Hailes. Winger Rachel Lawrence who was at Leicester City for 8 seasons joins from Peterborough United Women. Hope Strauss is another strong addition to the squad the defender most recently with Loughborough Lightning. Striker Shannon Shaw joins Norwich having played for Cambridge City Ladies along with full back Lauren Tomlinson who is now doubt fed up with me mentioning she has one of the longest throws in the women’s game. Norwich opening their season with a late goal in a 2-1 win away to Division One South East newcomers AFC Sudbury Women.

St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus Stadium serving as Cambridge United WFC’s regular home for the past couple of season’s, the main grass pitched stadium along side a artificial playing surface beyond. Situated within an ever growing residential development on the outskirts of St Neots with huge potential to grow the fanbase of both Cambridge United’s women’s sides and St Neots Town FC itself. The grass pitch looking perfect at the start of the new season lush and green the main covered stand running along one side of the ground with the changing rooms and clubhouse and bar beneath. Covered terracing behind both goals too. Another overcast but warm afternoon with the threat of an odd down pour forecast during the match.

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Natasha Collins, Rachel Kosky, Abbie Jackson, Beatrice Rodgers, Gisella Otten (C), Fran Steele, Alysha Stojko-Down, Zoe Wood, Ruth Fox & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Jess Morley, Harley Jean-Simpson, Sydnie Naylor & Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Alice Parker, Lauren Tomlinson, Ceri Flye, Anna Larkins (C), Katie Knights, Eloise Morran, Megan Todd, Freya Symonds, Olivia Cook & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Millie Daviss, Jodie Drake, Natasha Snelling Hope Strauss & Rachel Lawrence.

Norwich to kick off this afternoon’s cup action wearing the clubs all purple third kit with Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back into Ceri Flye in defence puts the pass out to the right to be launched up the wing, Natasha Collins getting her head on the ball to clear for Cambridge.

Norwich rush in to close the ball down in the middle of the park as Alysha Stojko-Down squeezes a ball out to Zoe Wood on the left wing, looking to take it on, Megan Todd tracking back for Norwich to dispossess her. The visitors getting into Cambridge early looking to win the ball high, the ball lifted over the top into the right channel with Freya Symonds chasing the ball down before putting a low ball in across goal, Cambridge goalkeeper down quickly to get hold of the ball with Shannon Shaw chasing in far post.

  The ball hotly contested in midfield Fran Steele coming up to Alysha Stojko-Down as she battles for possession, fouled Cambridge take the free-kick quickly played out to Wood on the left turns inside before sending an ambitious pass out to the right looking for the run of Ruth Fox, Norwich win it back Alice parker sending it on up the left for Lauren Tomlinson to take on down the line sending a cross in central the ball cleared by Cambridge defender, Abbie Jackson.

Abbie Jackson clearing the ball for Cambridge

  Katie Knights and Eloise Morran pressing the ball inside the Cambridge half a good contest developing between Knights and Steele a free-kick given away out deep on the right players up to the top of the area as Parker floats the ball high into the box, appeals as a Norwich player goes down, but waved away. Norwich spreading the ball about the pitch going left to right looking to stretch Cambridge inside their own half. Olivia Cook racing into the left channel with the ball is tracked well by Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers the defender getting a toe on the ball to take it out for a throw in the corner. 

Norwich midfielder Katie Knights

  GOAL! The opening goal comes as Norwich exploit the space left on their right as Rachel Kosky looks to get on in support of Wood up the left the ball taken on into the gap open on the right by Todd. crossed into the box, not dealt with Larkins sending it back in for Shaw who turns to slot it past the keeper at close range to score her first Norwich goal 0-1.

Shannon Shaw opening her account for Norwich

  Cambridge falling behind inside the opening 10 minutes looking for a response press the ball Stojko-Down into Wood, closed down by Larkins. Getting hold of the ball on halfway Todd with a powerful run driving into the middle, on towards the box eventually challenged by Rodgers, the hosts attempt to counter the ball played out to Kosky advancing on the left forwards for Sarah Wiltshire coming out to the left, Flye racing across to lunge in take the ball off her for the throw in.

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins

  Tomlinson getting on well for Norwich on the left dinking a deft ball over the top for Olivia Cook in attack for Norwich coming central, Jackson does well to get back on her to get a foot in take the ball away from her before she can attempt a strike. Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten with a good turn on the ball sending a great pass forwards into Wiltshire 25 yards out from goal, bringing the ball down she turns and shoots the strike held comfortably by Bryony Williams in the Norwich goal. 

Cambridge striker, Sarah Wiltshire

  The heavens open up for a brief but steady shower as Norwich continues to get after the ball put Cambridge under pressure the hosts guilty of giving the ball away a little disjointed at the back Norwich prepared to bring players on, Wood and Kosky looking to combine on the left wing for Cambridge the ball sent on for Wiltshire pulling out wide but as before Flye goes out with her to snuff out the ball. 

Knights with Morran in the middle for Norwich playing the ball on for Shaw and Cook up top moving to the right corner of the area exchange passes before sending a dangerous cross racing across the top of the six yard box, Symonds racing in far post not quite able to reach it to deflect it home. Wood taking the ball inside lifts the pass out t Fox on the right gets her head on the ball to push it up for Wiltshire closing down the right channel looking to get the ball under control take it on into the area, Flye gets across her to win the ball back for Norwich.

Cambridge’s Zoe Wood with Norwich’s Freya Symonds

  No advantage play brought back for the free-kick on half way after Todd pulls Wood’s shirt, Jackson to send the ball forwards Norwich win the header, the game competitive with Norwich getting numbers forwards better pressuring Cambridge into some rushed passes presenting the ball back to their opponents. Knights with the pass to release Tomlinson on the left delivers a high cross into the near post, plucked down well by Webb. 

 Cambridge trying to get the ball into their attacking players a pass fed on for Wiltshire in attack right side looks to flick it over her shoulder spin in behind her marker, Flye though reads it giving herself room to stretch a leg out knock the ball out of Wiltshire’s path. Morran winning the ball from Wood in the middle lifts it forwards into Shaw, looking to chase it down Rodgers going with her the defender getting a toe on the ball to take it out for a throw in the corner. Cambridge struggle to get the ball out of their area as Norwich push numbers on flashed in from the left, Cook throws a leg out inside the six yard box, can’t quite connect.

Norwich’s Eloise Morran

  Norwich winning the ball inside the Cambridge half Symonds central releasing Todd on the right taking the ball on Symonds making a run inside the box to the near post Todd cross just behind her still manages to play it back for Knights positioned top of the area to the right of the D stabs her effort wide. Fox has had to be patient on the right old position ready to receive the ball, fed on well by Collins the attacker drives on for the by-line looking to cross Parker getting back on her defending the ball coming off Fox for the goal kick. 

Jackson with a strong tackle at the back for Cambridge to beat Shaw to the ball after Cambridge lose the ball in the middle, the game scrappy and feisty at times Norwich frustrating Cambridge with some good duels all over the park. Wood latching onto a clearance from Williams shifting inside from 30 yards out to shoot can only pick out the goalkeeper with her effort. 

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten

  Cambridge getting players forwards better pushing on the right Fox winning her side a corner players coming forwards the delivery over Jackson at the near post cleared back out of the area to the right, Steele latching onto the shot hit hard, Shaw in the way more than anything else making the block, will feel that one.

 Cambridge caught out in possession high up the pitch Norwich quick to turn play around the ball fired forwards into Shaw looking to run in behind the defence, Jackson just getting there ahead of her to toe the ball back into the box for Webb to clear. Flye is reading the game excellently at the back for Norwich getting into some great positions to win the ball strong as she gets ahead of Wiltshire to win the ball as Wood and Kosky look to link on the left.

  GOAL! And from that attack Flye leads the charge to set Norwich on their way to double the lead taking the ball on all the way to halfway the centre back sends the ball through for Cook racing into the gap open on the right and swings a low and fast cross into the six yard box for Shaw to drive onto and send home for her 2nd of the match 0-2.

A 1st half brace for Norwich’s Shannon Shaw

 Norwich doubling their lead late in the first half exploiting the space left at the back by Cambridge. The hosts battling for the ball in the middle Steele on for Stojko-Down plays the pass out to the right for Fox looking to combine with Wiltshire, Parker does well at the back to knock the ball out of play for a throw. 

Alice Parker

  Norwich comfortable at the back the ball out to Larkins on the right brings it on lifting the ball on for Cook central looking to charge forwards to attack, Rodgers has half a yard on the attacker vital as she stretches for the ball getting it back to her keeper. Otten winning the ball for Cambridge played on for Stojko-Down out to Fox wide right up the line sends it inside for Wilshire to strike on the angle in low saved by Williams.

   Cambridge applying a little pressure back on Fox combining with Wiltshire as they look to chase down the keeper as Williams looks to clear a back pass cleared straight to Collins the full back looks to shoot from distance as defenders rush back into the area, the shot though put straight into Williams who has quick recovered her positioning. 

Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers

  Steele threading the ball through the middle into Stojko-Down outside the area is tackled by Morran before she can adjust to shoot. Cambridge pressing late in the half getting players on Norwich ready to spring the counter.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Norwich City Women

 Norwich leading 2 nil at the break, and good value for it too getting on the front foot committing players forwards have pressed Cambridge high leading to some unforced errors and have exploited the space left exposed at the back to full advantage scoring both goals spreading play while not allowing themselves to be exposed at the other end. The visitors with a competitive 90 minutes under their belts looking to have settled quickly under their new manager. Cambridge with several new signings looking a little disjointed in the first half have work to do if they are to turn the game around second half.

 Neither side making a change at the break as Cambridge get the 2nd period underway the ball played back into the defence Norwich rush forwards to put the ball under pressure straight away leading to the ball being given away, Shaw puling out wide right whipping a cross into the near post, Otten back to head clear for Cambridge. 

Olivia Cook moving in to challenge Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers

 The visitors with a high tempo start to the 2nd half won by Knights inside the Cambridge half on for Symonds taking it on into the left channel plays it forwards into Shaw pulling left of goal smashes in an angled drive low to the near post, Webb down smartly to make the save turn the ball behind for the corner kick. Whipped in high from the left, Webb does well to get a glancing fist on the ball take it away to the left, the ball is returned with interest smashing down off the ball before being scrabbled out of the box, Morran onto it left of the D 20 yards does get a clean connection the ball angling wide of the right post caught by Webb.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Kosky advancing with the ball down the left for Cambridge playing it inside for Wiltshire outside the D, turns but Parker is there to stretch a leg out take the ball from her. Parker’s turn to bring the ball out of defence for Norwich finding Symonds well as she makes a run into the right channel, Jackson defending well up against her for Cambridge. Tomlinson races on down Norwich’s left after winning the ball high her cross snuffed out by Rodgers.

  Cambridge looking to get forwards risk the counter as Parker gets hold of the ball for Norwich finds Symonds on the move wide left whips a cross out to Cook on the right puts in infield for Todd who in turn finds Knights inside the D, Rodgers quickly in to close her down prevent the shot for Cambridge. Stojko-Down sending the ball through to Wiltshire and Fox up top looking to link up get in behind Flye gets in to tackle wins the ball back well for Norwich.

Ceri Flye bringing the ball on from the back for Norwich

 Both sides making their first change with 10 minutes of the 2nd half played, Cambridge bringing on new sighing Jess Morley for her debut after Rodgers picks up a knock at the back. Norwich bringing on Natasha Snelling to replace Cook in attack. Norwich pushing up getting a throw high on the left cleared by the Cambridge defence, the visitors quickly have it back with Symonds strong on the left driving into the corner sending a low ball into the box Webb down to claim it.

  GOAL! Snelling making an instant impact from the bench as she scores Norwich’s 3rd. The visitors on the attack on the left with Tomlinson powering on with the ball sending a cross into the six yard box Shaw going for it close on the keeper not quite getting there instead deflecting the ball wide into Snelling’s path to smash home at the far post 0-3.

Natasha Snelling making an instant impact coming off the bench to score Norwich’s 3rd and her 1st of the season.

 Norwich making a change straight after the third goal bringing off Tomlinson and sending on another of their new signings, Hope Strauss. A hammer blow for Cambridge as they look to get themselves back into the match now with a mountain to climb pressing on a caught on the counter with Parker sending the ball long on the left for Shaw to attack, Morley needing to get across to slide in take the ball out for the throw. 

  The cross claimed by Webb off the throw, Norwich make another change bringing off Shaw in attack as they bring on another of their new signings Rachel Lawrence. Norwich on top pressing on in attack the ball whipped into the box from the left, Webb going to claim it getting the decision as she is caught by Todd sticking a leg out trying to reach the ball. Cambridge making another change as they bring off Otten to be replaced by Mayzee Seymour. 

 

  Symonds getting forwards well from the middle for Norwich bursting into the left channel flashing a cross in near post Kosky racing across to head the ball away to safety. Stojko-Down staggered as she is shown a yellow card having been on the receiving end of a number of strong challenges throughout the game. Parker follows close behind as she goes into the referees book. Norwich make a change bringing off 16-year-old Morran to be replaced by Millie Daviss. 

Norwich’s Hope Strauss

 Cambridge winning a free-kick deep on the right, Jackson to send it in Stojko-Down with the lay back into Wood to dink over the top into the area for Wilshire to attack, Williams though out well to gab hold of the ball first. Norwich finding pockets of space out wide Lawrence attacking left sending a ball into the box met near side by Knights her shot saved well by Webb getting down to the floor quickly to smother.

  Norwich looking sharp as the game moves into the final 15 minutes, Cambridge making a change bringing on another of their new signings Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris for Collins. Daviss blasts wide after winning a tackle on Stojko-Down. The visitors making another change bringing in bringing on Jodie Drake to replace Symonds. Wiltshire has been closely marked up top throughout for Cambridge always looking for an opportunity however pulls away to the left breaking into the channel with the ball at her feet is frustrated as she is adjudged to have fouled Flye as she closes her down to try and regain possession.

  Norwich’s turn to get a little sloppy in possession late in the game Cambridge pressing looking to get something from the game Wood winning a free kick high on the left inside her opponents half more or less a corner players up the ball instead played short to Wood outside the box to the left blasted a shot in towards goal stings the goalkeepers hands Williams reacting sharply gloving the ball up into the air, Todd beside her with a strong headed clearance. 

  Cambridge attacking right Wiltshire on with the ball into Seymour played back into the middle for Wood, Knights sliding in to tackle win the ball back.

  GOAL! With Cambridge committing players forwards they are caught on the counter the ball given away played through the middle on for Lawrence breaking through the middle to attack the box the defence back peddling puts the ball out to Drake bursting on right of the area to hit a low drive across the keeper and into the bottom corner 0-4.

Jodie Drake blasting home Norwich’s 4th

  7 minutes of regular time left Norwich in control of the tie Cambridge hurting looking for a reply Fox strong to get the ball down on the right sending a cross into the area cleared by Flye for Norwich. 

  GOAL! 4 quickly becomes 5, Drake getting onto the ball in the middle for Norwich sending a fantastic ball on to pick out Lawrence breaking clear wide on the left bursting forwards fires a vicious cross into the six yard box giving Webb no chance as Snelling comes sliding in turn the ball over the line for her 2nd of the game 0-5.

2 goals for Natasha Snelling

  Norwich break to send the back home for what they think is a 6th goal with Snelling playing the ball out to Todd right before she breaks into the box Todd sends the cross in to the near post Snelling throwing herself at it to volley the ball high into the net but she’s denied a hat-trick by a raised offside flag. Cambridge get onto the ball central played on for Seymour up top to attack the area in a race with Flye as Williams comes rushing out the keeper colliding with the pair nevertheless laying claim the the ball.

Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams claiming the ball after rushing out to close down Mayzee Seymour and Ceri Flye

  Cambridge fighting to the end Stojko-Down on for Wiltshire tries to knock it down for Fox rushing on behind her central but the move doesn’t quite come off. Wood advancing on the left whipping a high ball into the area Williams confidently claiming it. Norwich ready to pounce in attack as Cambridge lose the ball lifted on for Snelling outside the area left of the D drags her shot wide of the near post. The visitors determined to keep a clean sheet as the game moves into the dying seconds Williams rushing out of her area to clear a hopeful ball over the top.  

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-5 Norwich City Women

  Norwich through to the League Cup proper with a convincing 5-0 win over Cambridge who now go into the League Plate competition. A strong performance from Norwich, coach Martin Herdman must be pleased with his sides performance, asked for attacking flowing football and they certainly delivered today getting after the ball committing players forwards and in turn forcing errors from their opponents while remaining solid at the back. A few thing’s to work on so he can keep the squad on the ground but a pleasing start. Cambridge with plenty to work on when they return to the training pitch, a disappointing loss but overall not the end of the world several new faces to bed it and manager Darren Marjoram hasn’t had a full squad to work with during pre-season will take a little time for everyone to gel, but will be looking for a response heading into their league campaign.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match and unlike last time out this one is a tough one with several contenders. A few performances to mention. A difficult day for Cambridge however under pressure at times defenders Beatrice Rodgers and Abbie Jackson put in a number of vital tackles. Zoe Wood looked to make thing’s happen with the ball at her feet, with Alysha Stojko-Down playing some good balls on into the attackers. Norwich were strong all over the park, Freya Symonds got about the pitch well getting into some great positions to receive and take the ball on. Likewise Katie Knights and Eloise Morran were strong in the middle. Natasha Snelling with an instant impact from the bench coming on to score a brace. Alice Parker and Ceri Flye strong in defence. The line led well by Olivia Cook and Shannon Shaw who narrowly clinches it for me from the off getting after the Cambridge defence opening her Norwich account with a 1st half brace that set Norwich on the path to victory, provided great runs throughout. 

  An exciting encounter form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, provides plenty of drama without ultimately giving much away to the outcome of either competition now it begins in earnest and both sides will want to do well. A good day out at St Neots getting used to the new car and it will be clocking up plenty of miles. Thanks to both teams for their help today and good luck with the competition going forwards.

by Darren Gilham

The Round-Up – FAWNL 28/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th October

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with only one of the top 4 sides in action it was a chance for Chichester City Ladies up to the dizzy heights of 2nd to claim another 3 point haul and close the gap on leaders Coventry United Ladies to a single point. Back at home after six weeks Chichester were taking on Cardiff City Ladies who were unbeaten in the league since losing on the opening day, with games in hand on all the sides above them too. It was likely to be a close game Cardiff scoring on average 4 goals a game so far this season, Chichester with a good defensive record to match their good start to the season, Molly Clark scoring for the hosts late in the 1st half to give Chichester the lead. Solid in the 2nd half they became the 1st team of the season to prevent Cardiff scoring to win the game and close the gap on the leaders.

  Cardiff dropping down to 7th in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that defeat the sides below them getting positive results on. Oxford United Women up to 5th on the table with an away win on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. Florence Fyfe with her 3rd goal of the season scoring to see Oxford lead the Essex side 1-0 in the 28th minute. The game far from settled Oxford defending their goal advantage made the result safe 2 minutes into stoppage time Fyfe netting her 2nd goal of the game to see Oxford return home with the win.

   A fantastic start to the season from newly promoted Loughborough Foxes Women 7 points from their opening 3 league games was followed by 4 straight defeats that run ending last Sunday with an away win over QPR Women in the FAWNL Cup. Looking to build on that result returned to league action at home to Milton Keynes Dons this Sunday. Captain Shauna Chambers firing Loughborough into the lead just past the half-hour. Charlotte Cooper putting the hosts 2-0 up late in the first half. Loughborough extending their lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half Eva Rogers getting on the scoresheet. 3 quickly became 4 Ria Acton scoring just a minute later. Acton brought down in the box, Laura Steele converting the penalty to see Loughborough 5-0 up with an hour played. Millie Chandarana adding a 6th goal in the final 15 minutes to see Loughborough win and climb back up into the top half of the table.

FAWNL Cup

 Two 2nd Round ties to be settled in the FAWNL Cup this weekend, both fixtures affected by the weather a fortnight ago. Cambridge United Women were drawn at home to fellow South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC. The visitors with chances in the 1st half to get themselves into the lead the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time however it was a hat-trick from Cambridge full-back, Emma Jenkins that sent the host side through. In the right place inside the box from a corner to head the ball home to put Cambridge into the lead. The lead doubled from another corner kick, Jenkins celebrating the hat-trick by getting onto the end of a free-kick to seal the win for Cambridge, who will now face AFC Wimbledon Ladies away from home in the 3rd Round.

A hat-trick for Cambridge United Women’s, Emma Jenkins

  In the other 2nd Round tie Southern Premier Division high-flyers Plymouth Argyle Ladies were on the road taking on Southampton Women currently leading South West Division One with a 100% winning start. A goal from Helen Bleazard the difference between the sides, Plymouth with the lead in the 36th minute. Southampton getting themselves back on level terms on the hour with Natalie Bavister firing the ball home to make it 1-1. The score level going into the final 10 minutes Jessie Jones with a late double to send Plymouth through to the 3rd Round finding the back of the net in the 84th minute to restore the visitors lead adding another in stoppage time to secure the win. A home tie against the unbeaten leaders of South East Division One awaits as Plymouth will take on Crawley Wasps Ladies.

  The full draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Cup listed below, ties scheduled to be played Sun 9th December.

FAWNL Cup 3rd Round

Huddersfield Town Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies

Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Hull City Ladies

Blackburn Rovers Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies

Stoke City Ladies v Leeds United Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Cambridge United Women

Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women

Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

 Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

Two games played in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps Ladies returning to the top of the table as they continued their 100% winning start to the season with a comfortable result at home to bottom side Luton Town Ladies.  Sian Heather opening the scoring 1st half capitalising as Luton failed to clear the ball. The lead doubled from the penalty spot Naomi Cole composed sending the keeper the wrong way. 2-0 up at half-time Crawley added to the score 2nd half Ariana Fleischman turning inside the area slotting the ball in to make it 3. Darcy James scoring from a corner. Megan Stow putting Crawley 5-0 up, Faye Rabson netting fro close range sealed a 6-0 win to return Crawley to the top of the league.

  Behind the leading pair in FAWNL South East Division One it as extremely tight a win for any side down as far as 7th could see them make huge gains in term of league position and that is exactly what AFC Wimbledon Ladies did on Sunday winning the 3 points to leap all the way up to 3rd position. At home Wimbledon were taking on Denham United Ladies. Rebecca Sargeant putting the hosts into the lead midway through the 1st half, Jenny Nagle adding a 2nd goal for Wimbledon deep into 1st half stoppage time. The lead made more comfortable 10 minutes into the 2nd period with Caroline Bisson scoring her 5th goal of the season. The final score 4-0 Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins scoring with 20 minutes left her 1st goal of the season.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 25/03/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th March

FA Women’s Cup

Charlton Athletic Women were the only side left from outside the FAWSL left in the FA Women’s Cup reaching the last 8 a great achievement for the side leading the FAWPL Southern Division going into the quarter final on Sunday up against 14 times winners of the FA Women’s Cup, Arsenal Women at Borehamwood. Postponed from last Sunday it was a special occasion for Charlton Athletic striker, Kit Graham making her 200th appearance for the club. A big test up against Arsenal the FAWSL club taking an early lead in the tie awarded a penalty in the 4th minute, Scottish International, Kim Little stepping up to score. Arsenal created further chances throughout the 2nd half Charlton working hard in defence keeping the score down to 1-0 at half-time.

  10 minutes into the 2nd half Arsenal doubled their lead Heather O’Reilly sending the ball home to make it 2-0 then 5 minutes later it was 3-0 to the hosts with Dutch International Vivianne Miedema scoring the goal. As Charlton Athletic began to tire towards the latter stages of the match Arsenal took advantage to further extend their lead in the final 5 minutes with England’s Danielle Carter and Jordan Nobbs both getting their names on the scoresheet to send Arsenal into the semi-finals. An away trip to Everton Ladies awaits on the 15th April with Chelsea Ladies at home to Manchester City Women in the other semi-final and for the 1st time in history both games will be shown live by the BBC.

FAWPL Cup

At last Coventry United Ladies got to play their semi-final in the FAWPL Cup on Sunday after several postponement due to the weather and other fixtures. A long trip up to Lancashire to play Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies the winner meeting Leicester City Women in the Final. Keeley Davies getting the goal to put Coventry United into a 1-0 half-time lead. A screamer into the top corner from Helen Dermody in the 2nd half doubling Coventry United’s lead before Saffron Jordan pulled a goal back for Blackburn Rovers with 20 minutes left. The host pushing hard for an equalising goal broke Coventry United’s resistance in stoppage time Jordan with her 2nd of the match to take the tie into extra-time. A tense half hour followed with neither side able to win the game in open play the tie heading to penalties, heartbreak for Coventry United joy for Blackburn Rovers as they won the shootout 3-2 to reach the FAWPL Cup Final.

FAWPL Southern Division

With Charlton Athletic Women in action in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was another opportunity for 2nd & 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies to move back above them at the top of the Southern Division table. Crystal Palace making to trip down south to play Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors celebrating an early goal and a fabulous milestone too for Crystal Palace’s Gemma Bryan as she scored her 100th goal for the club. 

   Ellie Bailes also on target in the 1st half to make it 2-0 to Crystal Palace who were awarded a penalty as the game closed in on the half hour, Bryan stepping up to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 the advantage at half-time Crystal Palace made sure of the win extending their lead with 20 minutes left, Bryan going on to complete a hat-trick taking Crystal Palace back to the top of the Southern Division table.

C&K Basildon Ladies were also on the road travelling to Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies the 3rd placed side taking the lead with Paige Wakefield on target. 1-0 became 2-0 with Therese Addison putting the ball past the keeper. Cardiff City getting it back to 2-1 before the half-time whistle. A diving header from Angela Addison restored Basildon’s 2 goal lead. Again Cardiff City pulled a goal back to make it 3-2. Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match to make it 4-2 and see Basildon win all 3 points taking them into 2nd position in the table. Sophie Thomas and Cori Williams scoring the goals for Cardiff City.

At home in the league for the 1st time since November, Chichester City Ladies were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division this Sunday. The sides going in all square at the break a single goal was enough to secure all 3 points the goal for the hosts with Jess Lewry sending the ball into the back of the net on the hour to put Chichester City in front and seal the win.

Fourth placed Lewes FC Women were also finally back in league action after cup competitions had kept them busy since the end of November. At home were taking on Queens Park Rangers this Sunday. Chances not taken it looked as though the sides would be going in level at the break, Lewes breaking the deadlock with a minute of the first half left to play, Rebecca Carter with her 11th goal of the season. Danielle Lane doubling Lewes lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. The result made comfortable midway through the 2nd half as Sarah Kempson put the ball home to make it 3-0.

West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they extend their unbeaten run to 9 games, a fourth straight win this Sunday away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. A narrow lead for the visitors at half-time Leanna Mabey with the goal. A blistering start to the 2nd half with youngster Kelly Wealthall netting with 22 seconds after kick-off to make it 2-0. Ellie Zoefpl scoring on 65 minutes to extend the lead to 3-0. Molly Clark then scoring to make it 4-0 her first goal for West Ham United. Weathall getting her 2nd of the game for a 5-0 lead with Zoefpl also getting her 2nd of the game in the final minute to see West Ham United win 6-0.

FAWPL South East Division One

Plenty of action too this Sunday in FAWPL South East Division One. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were a massive 16 points clear at the top of the table as they travelled to rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on Sunday the 4th placed side with plenty of games in hand could yet catch AFC Wimbledon if they could claim maximum points in the run in. Women’s Football East was there to see all the action and the full match report can be found under this post. A competitive and tense affair between two committed sides had a derby feel to the match neither wanting to give anything away led to few opportunities being created in the final third the sides going in all square at 0-0 at half time at Newport Pagnell FC.

Milton Keynes, Alice Hughes with AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield

The deadlock broken early in the 2nd half the high tempo pace of the 1st half continuing Milton Keynes broke the ball out to striker Heather McDonnell moving wide left good hold-up play drawing players towards her the cross whipped into the box found Kim Farrow running in on goal her header taking the ball wide of the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0 a goal on her debut for the club. Milton Keynes working hard at the back and midfield to keep AFC Wimbledon at bay the visitors pushing for an equaliser striker Caroline Bisson coming closest putting her header just wide of the near post. Milton Keynes winning the game 1-0 move up into 3rd position behind Leyton Orient WFC. AFC Wimbledon despite the set back remain 14 points clear at the top of the table.

 Leyton Orient WFC took all 3 points ta home on Sunday to climb above Ipswich Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Were hosting Norfolk side, Norwich City Ladies. Leyton Orient getting off to a fantastic start going 1-0 up inside the 1st minute top scorer Sophie Le Marchand on target. 10 minutes later Leyton Orient were presented with an opportunity to double their lead from the penalty spot Le Marchand stepping up to put the ball into the back of the net for 2-0. Le Marchand then completed a 1st half hat-trick with 4 minutes left to play to take her onto 22 goals for the season and see Leyton Orient leading 3-0. Norwich City pulled a goal back 7 minutes into the 2nd half Millie Daviss scoring to make it 3-1. On the hour Hayley Barton got on the scoresheet for Leyton Orient to see them lead 4-1 and go on to claim all 3 points.

  It was 5th versus 6th as Luton Town Ladies travelled to Cambridge United WFC on Sunday 2 points between the sides. Luton Town creating several chances in the first half but unable to breach the Cambridge United defence. The hosts continued to defend well 2nd half, going in front with Amber Cantwell scoring the goal it was enough for Cambridge United to win the match and as a result move above Luton Town into 5th position in the table.

The battle in mid-table looks incredibly close with Stevenage Ladies continuing their recent good form to close the gap to 6th placed Luton Town to just 2 points. Fresh from winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Stevenage were on the road at the weekend taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. Leah Littlechild top scoring in the game got 4 more goals to her name taking her onto 14 for the season. Not quite enough to make her top scorer but amongst the contenders, Amy Makewell was also on target for a goal to take her also onto 14 but a brace from captain Donna McGuigan keeps her nose just in front with 15 so far this season. Goals to for midfielders, Chloe Gunn and Amy Josland along with an own goal to see Stevenage win 10-2. Shanice Nourrice and Jonea Peter on target with a goal each for Haringey. 

Actonians Ladies were back in league action for the 1st time in a month at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. A goal from Alessandra Barreca late in the 1st half seeing Actonians leading 1-0 at the break. A close contest it wasn’t till the final 10 minutes before Actonians made their lead more secure Barreca on target for her 2nd went on to complete her hat-trick 3 minutes into stoppage time scoring from the penalty spot to take her onto 17 goals for the season.

 

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 11/03/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th March

FAWPL Southern Division

Another weekend sadly affected by postponements albeit not as heavily as last weekend where only 4 games survived in the East. The FAWPL fairing better than most Charlton Athletic Ladies returning back to the top of the Southern Division after being over taken by Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies in recent weeks, the top two due to face each other this Sunday their top of the table clash falling foul of a water logged pitch.

  Not so at Thamesmead Charlton took on Cardiff City Ladies. A good start for the hosts, goals from Kit Graham and Charlotte Gurr putting them into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Cardiff pulling it back to 2-1 after they were awarded a penalty Cori Williams stepping up to score. Gurr quickly restoring Charlton’s 2 goal lead on 32 minutes sending home a free-kick after Graham was fouled outside the area. A good first half for Charlton with Graham netting her 2nd of the match in the 41st minute to see the hosts leading 4-1 at half-time. Gurr moving onto 32 goals for the season as she completed her hat-trick 15 minutes into the 2nd half with Charlton going on to win 5-1 taking them back to the top.

   That defeat for Cardiff coupled with a victory on the road away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies saw Gillingham FC Ladies move up a place into 9th in the Southern Division table. Gillingham enjoying a good first 45 minutes against their opponents going into the half-time interval leading 3-0. Top scorers Kallie Balfour scoring twice on 20 and 31 minutes with the 3rd goal coming from captain, Jade Keogh. Balfour going on to complete her hat-trick scoring her 3rd and Gillingham’s 4th with 20 minutes left.

West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they remain unbeaten in a run of 7 matches in league and cup. Following up from booking their spot in this season’s FAWPL Plate Final last weekend were at home in the league this Sunday taking on Chichester City Ladies. A goal from Amber Stobbs midway through the 1st half giving West Ham a narrow advantage that they held onto for much of the game the 3 points secured 2 minutes from time as Stobbs found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game. 2-0 the final score.

FAWPL Cup

Postponed from last weekend due to the bad weather, Lewes FC Women travelled up to the East Midlands on Sunday to take on Leicester City Women in the semi-final of the FAWPL Cup. A good start for Lewes as they took the lead against the side they knocked out of the FAWPL Plate at the same stage last season, Amy Taylor scoring to give the visitors the lead in the 10th minute. Leicester though were soon back on level terms Leigh Dugmore scoring the equaliser just 2 minutes later. 4 minutes later the hosts had turned it around to lead 2-1 Holly Morgan getting on the score sheet to make it 2-1 holding onto the advantage until half-time a bright start to the 2nd half put Leicester in control of the tie a 2 goals in 6 minutes from Sophia Domingo making it 4-1. Lewes could not find a response as Leicester held firm, Sarah Kempson getting a goal late in stoppage time too little too late as Lewes were defeated 4-2, Leicester City Women will play either Blackburn Rovers Ladies or Coventry United Ladies in the final that will now be played on the 25th of March after the tie was postponed for the 2nd time this Sunday.

FAWPL Plate

The finalists for this season’s FAWPL Plate Final were confirmed this Sunday as Luton Town Ladies match at home to Fylde Ladies postponed from last Sunday took place this Sunday with West Ham United Ladies already there. Luton Town Ladies in the league below Fylde Ladies taking the lead in the match a goal from Nicola Henman and despite Fylde creating opportunities then hosts looked like they might hold out for the victory until the final 12 minutes as Fylde turned the game completely on it’s head, Olivia Wild levelling the score before Alys Hinchcliffe netted what would prove to be the winning goal to send the Northern Division side into the Plate final

  This season’s FAWPL Plate Final between West Ham United Ladies & Fylde Ladies will be played at Hednesford Town FC’s Keys Park Stadium on the 15th of April.

FAWPL South East Division One

A 16 point lead now at the top of FAWPL South East Division One for AFC Wimbledon Ladies after winning on the road away to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. The sides meeting recently in the reverse fixture Wimbledon winning comfortably 8-2, Norwich City have improved since then and ran there opponents much closer this time around. The opening goal coming just past the half hour with Georgia Heasman netting the goal to give Wimbledon the lead. Caroline Bisson doubling their advantage in the closing stages of the 1st half. Norwich pulling a goal back 5 minutes into the 2nd half, a strike from Chelsea Garrett. Making for a tense end to the match Wimbledon have won a good percentage of their matches by a single goal advantage and held on once again to claim all 3 points.

The fight for for places below them is extremely hot with Ipswich Town Ladies, Leyton Orient WFC and Milton Keynes Dons all the hunt for runners-up spot. Milton Keynes with games in hand could yet chase Wimbledon down if they can gain maximum points, were away to 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies this Sunday in a tight and scrappy game the win coming from a wonder strike from Milton Keynes, Charly Clarke 3 minutes from time. Ipswich Town’s faint hop of catching the leaders looking over. 2 points between 2nd placed Ipswich and 4th placed Milton Keynes now.

 Sandwiched in between them Leyton Orient WFC also failed to pick up any points on Sunday after they were defeated at home by Cambridge United WFC in a battling and determined performance. The visitors taking the lead in the 21st minute Faith Hewitt arriving in the box to put home Lauren Cartwright’s cross. 1-0 the lead at the break Cambridge United’s defence of their advantage was made all the harder as they were reduced to 10 players 10 minutes into the 2nd half Cartwright picking up two quick yellows to see her afternoon finish early. Cambridge United worked hard determination to keep their lead and win all 3 points.

At the other end of the South East Division One table Denham United Ladies were in danger of getting caught up in the battle at the bottom as Norwich City Ladies winning last weekend had closed the gap on them to 5 points. At home to Enfield Town Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Sophie Cheadle and Alissa Down putting the hosts into a 2-0 half-time lead. Enfield Town pulling it back to 2-1 10 minutes into the 2nd half with Regan Coleman getting the goal. An incident soon after seeing Enfield reduced to 10 with Nuala McKevitt shown a red card. Denham taking full advantage of their superior number on the field, as Kayleigh Currivan shot to make it 3-1. Down adding her 2nd of the match too to see Denham win 4-1 taking them 8 points clear of Norwich.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 25/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th February

FAWPL Southern Division 

Two games played in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday. Crystal Palace Ladies reached the final of the Capital Cup last weekend away to Queens Park Rangers Ladies this Sunday the two sides met in the league. The deadlock broken in the 28th minute as Ciara Sherwood struck from a free-kick to give Crystal Palace the lead. That was how it remained until half-time. Queens Park Rangers coming back to level the scores on 62 minutes, Kasha Petit scoring from a free-kick outside the box. Crystal Palace were quick to respond pegged back for just 2 minutes retaking the lead with Ellie Bales scoring to make it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the win the 3 points taking them to within a point of 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women. Crystal Palace Ladies also announcing this week they have applied for a place in FAWSL 2 with will be known as the FA Women’s Championship from next season.

 In the other FAWPL Southern Division game played this weekend 6th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies travelled to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies. The sides going in goalless at half-time it was Portsmouth who went on the win the game in the 2nd half Daisy McLachlan scoring early in the 2nd period the 3 points make safe 6 minutes from time as Eilidh Currie netted the goal to give Portsmouth the 2-0 win. Move above Coventry United Ladies into 5th place in the Southern Division table.

FAWPL Cup

Coventry United Ladies complete the line-up for the last four of the FAWPL after they were successful away winners to South West Division One side, Plymouth Argyles Ladies on Sunday. Nikki Miles with the goal in the 18th minute to hand the Southern Division side the lead at half-time. Coventry doubling their advantage as the game moved on the hour mark with Amber Hughes on target with the goal. The result made secure 10 minutes later as Miles scored her 2nd of the day to put Coventry through with a 3-0 win. 

  The semi-finals of the FAWPL Cup with take place this coming weekend Sunday 4th March (weather permitting) Coventry United Ladies will be away to Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies. In the other semi-final Lewes FC Women from the Southern Division will be away to Northern Division counterparts, Leicester City Women both currently 4th in their respective leagues. The pair met in the same fixture a year ago albeit in the FAWPL Plate, Lewes with the narrow 1-0 win then went on to reach the final and win the competition.

FAWPL Plate

One quarter final tie outstanding in the FAWPL Plate too, postponed last weekend Luton Town Ladies hosting fellow South East Division One side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Despite a great strike from Luton’s Zara Carroll the hosts found themselves trailing 2-1 at half-time thanks to goals for Vicky Holland and Heather McDonnell for Milton Keynes. Luton get themselves back on level terms with Natasha Fensome scoring a goal celebrating her birthday. The tie won with a late late winning goal Luton the side celebrating as Nicola Henman found the back of the net to send them into the last four of the FAWPL Plate with a 3-2 win. The first time Luton have reached a national semi-final too.

   Again like the FAWPL Cup the semi-finals of the Plate are scheduled to be played this Sunday 4th March. Luton Town Ladies will be at home taking on higher league opponents, Flyde Ladies from the Northern Division, whilst West Ham United Ladies will travel to Northern Division One leaders, Hull City Ladies.

FAWPL South East Division One 

AFC Wimbledon Ladies already have a strong lead in FAWPL South East Division One extended that to 14 points with a big result away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. The visitors taking a very early lead Haringey credited with an own goal. AFC Wimbledon having a chance to double the lead from the penalty spot the effort was saved. Haringey came back to level the scores as they were awarded a penalty themselves, Brooke Hills scoring to make it 1-1. A busy start to the match. Wimbledon retook the lead in the 20th minute, Katie Stanley getting on the scoresheet. 2-1 quickly became 3-1 as Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell scored from a corner. Georgia Heasman getting Wimbledon’s 4th goal as the half hour approached.

  4-1 up at half-time Wimbledon extended their lead in the 60th minute as Stanley found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game. For much of the 2nd half Haringey held Wimbledon to 5-1 before a flurry of goals scored in the last 5 ten minutes Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins making it 6-1 on 81 minutes. Caroline Bisson scoring too to make it 7-1 with Rebecca Sargeant and Laura Quinn-Low scoring a goal apiece in injury time to see Wimbledon win 9-1.

Ipswich Town Ladies are up from 4th to 3rd in the FAWPL South East Division One table with a home win against 6th placed Cambridge United WFC on Sunday. Women’s Football East was there to see a match that is usually close between the 2 sides, the case again the pace high not much time afforded on the ball led to some scrappy play. Chances at a premium, Ipswich Town opening the scoring in the 15th minute winning a corner on the right Cambridge not getting the ball clear falling to Natasha Thomas free at the top of the area she smashed it home to make it 1-0. Late into the 1st half an Ipswich goalkeeper, Sian Fagg fouled Cambridge striker Kelley Blanchflower inside the box to give away a penalty. Made up for it by saving comfortably against taker Amber Cantwell.

Two goals for Ipswich Town Ladies , Natasha Thomas

   A narrow lead for Ipswich Town at the break. Cambridge started brightly 2nd half however it was Ipswich Town who went on to double their lead, the ball played forwards Miagh Downey getting round the centre back to push the ball past the advancing keeper from the top of the area to make it 2-0. The game far from settled Cambridge working the ball well on the left got across into the top of the area themselves to find Cantwell who drove the ball past Fagg to make it 2-1. Closing in on the last 10 minutes a good run from Thomas saw her move clear into space left of the Cambridge goal and picking her spot lifted her shot up over the keeper to make it 3-1 and seal the win for Ipswich.

 

 A 2nd successive league win for Stevenage Ladies sees them climb up to 7th in the FAWPL South East Division One table level on points with 6th placed Cambridge now as they claimed the 3 points away to Actonians Ladies this Sunday. Paige Logie with a smart turn and volley inside the opposition six yard box on 28 minutes to give Stevenage the lead. Actonians levelling thing’s up 4 minutes from the end of the 1st half, Alessandra Barreca with the goal. The winning goal coming midway through the 2nd half Stevenage captain Donna McGuigan on target to make it 2-1.

A heavy loss last weekend for Norwich City Ladies away to leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies thing’s were starting to look daunting for the side 2nd bottom in the FAWPL South East Division One. The difference 7 days makes as Norwich came home with the 3 points this Sunday clinching the win away to Enfield Town Ladies. An early setback for the visitor as Enfield took the lead in the opening minute Katherine Long getting the goal. The 1st half moving into the final 15 minutes Norwich got back on level terms Aimee Durrant with the shot to make it 1-1. Enfield responded quickly Sheryce Slater getting up the other end to restore the hosts lead 4 minutes later. Back came Norwich to level the scores for the 2nd time 5 minutes left in the 1st half Durrant with her 2nd of the game to make it 2-2 the score at half-time. The winning goal coming on the hour mark. Australian, Brydie Siryi making her debut for Norwich getting the goal to make it 3-2 and secure the win for Norwich that closes the gap to 10th placed Denham United Ladies to 5 points. Norwich with 2 games in hand all to play for.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 11/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th February

FAWPL Cup

An all Southern Division clash in the quarter finals of the FAWPL Cup this weekend with league leaders, Charlton Athletic Women hosting 4th placed Lewes FC Women, an intriguing tie on paper both going strong in cup competitions up to date something had to give this Sunday. In their 3 previous cup ties in both the FAWPL Cup and FA Women’s Cup, Charlton away from home each time had progressed via extra-time. Lewes drew first blood Sarah Kempson finding the back of the net to put the visitors into a 21st minute lead. Charlton coming back to level with 7 minutes of the 1st half left. Chances came and went for both sides the score tied 1-1 for the 4th time in a row Charlton were heading into extra-time. This time though the result didn’t go their way as Lewes booked their place in the competitions last four with an extra-time winner coming 5 minutes into the 2nd period of extra play, it was Kempson with her 2nd of the game to seal a memorable win. 3 more ties to be played the semi-final draw will follow.

FAWPL Plate

It was also quarter finals day in the FAWPL Plate competition, Luton Town Ladies home tie against fellow South East Division One side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies falling foul of the weather. Southern Division West Ham United Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on South West Division One side, Keynsham Town Ladies. A early goal from Kelly Weathall in the 5th minutes settling West Ham down. Leanne Mabey striking in the 18th minute to double the home sides lead. A devastating spell of 3 goals in 7 minutes on the half hour putting West Ham in full control of the game, Mabey with her 2nd of the game was rapidly followed up with a quick fire double from Amber Stobbs. 5-0 the lead at half-time West Ham added 2 more goals to their tally inside the last 10 minutes Stobbs going on to complete her hat-trick with Molly Peters also on target in a 7-0 win sending West Ham into the FAWPL Plate semi-finals. Also joining West Ham United Ladies in the last 4 are Northern Division side, Flyde Ladies who beat Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies 5-1 and Hull City Ladies 2nd in Northern Division One who beat fellow league side Chorley Ladies 4-0 on Sunday.

FAWPL Southern Division

With Charlton Athletic Women involved in the FAWPL Cup, 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies took full advantage winning away to Queens Park Rangers Ladies to go top of the table for the 1st time in their history. It was Queens Park Rangers who started brightly however taking the lead in the 4th minute, Cherelle Albert opening her account after recently returning to the club having previously been with Watford Ladies. Basildon were back on level terms in the 15th minute with Jay Blackie scoring the goal to make it 1-1. That the half-time score Basildon strong at the start of the 2nd half went on to take the lead in the 67th minute, Angela Addison getting the goal. Addison scoring again 6 minutes later to make it 3-1 with her 20th goal of the season. That the final score takes Basildon a point clear at the top of the Southern Division table.

In the other match played in the FAWPL Southern Division at the weekend Gillingham Ladies left it late as they earned a point at home to Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday. The sides 9th & 10th in the table playing out a goalless first half it was the visitors Cardiff City who took the lead midway through the 2nd half, Zoe Atkins netting the goal. 2 minutes into injury time Gillingham came back to level the scores striker Kallie Balfour sending the ball home to make it 1-1.

FAWPL South East Division One

 Three games postponed in FAWPL South East Division One on Sunday, only two surviving, league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home to bottom club Haringey Borough Women. Georgia Heasman striking in just the 2nd minute to put Wimbledon into the lead. Haringey got themselves back level, Julia Carruthers scoring to make it 1-1. Wimbledon retaking the lead midway through the 1st half, Kelly-Jade Whelan with the goal to make it 2-1. Again Haringey came back though Brooke Hills sending the ball home from a 25 yard free-kick. 2-2 the sides drawing at half time. A different story 2nd half however as Haringey suffering from a couple of injuries could hold Wimbledon back no longer Two early goals in the 2nd half putting the home side 4-2 up, Jess Trimnell and Laura Quinn-Low on target. Hannah Searle scored 2 in two minutes to make it 6-2. Heasman scoring her 2nd of the game to make it 7-2 on 65 minutes. Into the last 20 minutes Rebecca Sargeant added a goal to make it 8-2. Hannah Billingham getting herself a brace along with Quinn-Low also scoring her 2nd hand Heasman completing her hat-trick in a resounding 12-2 win that takes Wimbledon into an 8 point lead at the top of the table.

In the other game to beat the weather in the FAWPL Southern Division, Enfield Town Ladies were at home to Cambridge United WFC in the A10 derby. Cambridge were giving a debut to goalkeeper Savannah Smith as well as Megan Todd who joins from ERWFL Premier Division side Acle United Ladies their top scorer with 15 goals. It was just the 1 goal that would see all 3 points won this Sunday. Stavroulla Panayiotou the scorer for Enfield in the 36th minute. Despite chances for Cambridge the hosts held on to claim all 3 points moves them to with in a point of 6th placed Cambridge. 

The Round-Up – #FAWPL 28/01/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

FAWPL Southern Division 

A much better weekend weather wise this time around after last Sunday saw all the FAWPL games across the Southern & South East Division One called off. Still a couple of games not making it this time around in the South with Chichester City Ladies and Lewes FC Women postponing their league fixtures. 

  Leaders Charlton Athletic Women extended the gap at the top to 5 points with a large away win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. Top scorer Charlotte Gurr scoring as early as the 2nd minute for the visitors a 35 yard strike from Charley Clifford seeing Charlton 2-0 within 10 minutes. Gurr added another midway through the 1st half with an own goal 2 minutes from time seeing Charlton lead 4-0 at half-time. On the hour Charlton were awarded a penalty kick Gurr stepping up to score and complete her hat-trick. 5-0 the lead going into the last 10 minutes of the game Charlton finishing strongly, new signing, Olivia Lukasewich scoring a goal on her debut for the club. Georgia Griffin making it 7-0 on 83. Gurr scoring her 4th of the game her 27th so far this season in the last minute. Time in injury time for one more goal Kit Graham on target for her 21st goal of the season in a 9-0 win.

 The big game of the weekend however was between 2nd placed Crystal Palace Ladies away to 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies to gap 3 points. Basildon with a 100% record at Canvey Island are a tough side to play, Angela Addison with her 16th goal of the season giving the hosts a 1-0 1st half lead. Further chances 2nd half for both sides but defences came out on top Basildon claiming the 3 points to move level on points with Crystal Palace with a game in hand.

Elsewhere it was 8th versus 9th as West Ham United Ladies headed across to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies. Goals from Rosie Kmita and Ellie Zoepfl seeing the visitors leading 2-0 at half-time. Kmita scoring again early in the 2nd half to put West Ham into a 3-0 lead. A crazy 15 minute spell then saw a further 5 goals scored followed Kelly Weathall putting West Ham 4-0 up, Cardiff hitting back to make it 4-1 Kelly Issac scoring. Zoepfl scored her 2nd of the game to restore West Ham’s 4 goal cushion before Estelle Randall scored for the hosts to make it 5-2. Chloe Gurr recently introduced from the subs bench finding the back of the net to seal a 6-2 win for the visitors the 3 points taking them into 8th above Cardiff.

FAWPL Cup

 One game left to play in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup. After 3 previous postponements due to the weather it was finally game on between South East Division One side Cambridge United WFC at home to Southern Division side, Coventry United Ladies. A tough test for Cambridge, Coventry coming into the game off the back of 6 straight wins in league and cup. It was the visitors who started the stronger putting Cambridge under immediate pressure resulting in a early goal Alison Hall heading in a Marie Gauntlett cross in the 9th minute. Coventry had chances to go further ahead but some excellent saves from on loan goalkeeper Shayla Burgess kept the score down to 1-0 at the break.

2 goals for Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

 A chance for Cambridge to regroup, Coventry started the 2nd half just as strong as the 1st doubling their lead early on with Jade Brook sending the ball home to make it 2-0. On the hour mark Natalie Haigh up from the back powered the ball home from a header to make it 3-0. With Cambridge pushing up the field in the latter stages of the game the visitors them on the counter the ball played forwards Burgess racing out of her box to head the bouncing ball away can only put it into the path of the advancing Brook, 40 yards out goes for the lob the ball finding it’s way over the line for her 2nd of the game. 2nd half substitute Jessica Lundie scoring in stoppage time to secure a 5-0 and an away trip to Plymouth Argyle Ladies in the quarter finals.

FAWPL South East Division One

3 games played in FAWPL South East Division One this weekend. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies winning their 12th game of the season to maintain their 5 point lead at the top of the table. A home on Sunday playing Enfield Town Ladies the score was 0-0 at half-time. Wimbledon opening the scoring early in the 2nd half a minute played Laura Quinn-Low making it 1-0, 10 minutes later Quinn-Low netted her 2nd of the game to extend Wimbledon’s lead. Enfield pulling it back to 2-1 with 3 minutes left to play Katherine Long on target the hosts holding on for the win.

   It was 2nd versus 4th in South East Division One on Sunday with Leyton Orient WFC hosting Ipswich Town Ladies. Top scorer Sophie Le Marchand scoring in the 1st half to give the hosts the lead. Ipswich levelling the scores 4 minutes before the half-time whistle their top scorer, Natasha Thomas scoring the goal. A close contest the winning goal coming on the hour Le Marchand with her 19th goal of the season securing a 2-1 win for Leyton Orient moving them 4 points clear of 3rd placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and putting a big dent into Ipswich’s own title ambitions in the process.

A huge game at the bottom of the table with the bottom 2 meeting each other on Sunday. Haringey Borough Women still looking for their 1st point at this level hosting Norwich City Ladies who themselves have just the 4 points on the board knowing 3 points were a must if they have any home of catching the sides above them. Vivian Moyo with the goal 10 minutes from half-time to see Norwich hold a narrow advantage at the break. Turning out to be crucial as Haringey scored 3 goals in the 2nd half, Julia Carruthers netting a brace along with a goal for Jonea Peter. Norwich also finding the back of the net for 3 goals themselves in a dramatic 2nd period, Moyo with her 2nd of the match. Sasha Diston getting a goal on 70 minutes with Chelsea Garrett scoring with 7 minutes left to win it 4-3 for Norwich moving them onto 7 points.

 

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Coventry United Ladies

Sunday 28th January

Finally after 4 attempts it’s GAME ON! Originally scheduled for December 10th last year Cambridge United WFC finally meet Coventry United Ladies in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.

The good old British weather putting pay to this fixture 3 times! Along with the Christmas break and Coventry United Ladies playing in both the FA Women’s Cup and County Cup has seen this game long delayed. Better weather at last this Sunday at Mildenhall Town FC as these two sides play for a place in the quarter finals of the FAWPL Cup an away trip to in form South West Division One side Plymouth Argyle Ladies waiting.

A test for Cambridge United WFC 6th in FAWPL South East Division One taking on higher league opponents this afternoon. A Determining Round played at the start of the season the winning sides entering the Cup competition Cambridge United WFC went on to beat fellow league side Enfield Town Ladies 2-0 to reach the 2nd Round. Manager Steve Edwards leaving the club after 4 years in charge of the 1st team since then. Reserves and former 1st team manager Kevin Hoover taking over whilst the club look for a successor. 

Coventry United Ladies looking as strong as ever at the start of 2018, 5th in the FAWPL Southern Division but with games in hand on the leading pair Charlton Athletic Women and Crystal Palace Ladies whilst still in contention in 3 cup competition’s the County, FAWPL and FA Women’s Cups. FAWPL Plate winners 2 season’s ago are unbeaten in 6 matches in both league and cup going into today’s tie.

Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s game like many others across the country has seen it’s far share of water these past few weeks, despite that looks once again in great condition if not quite a dried out as preferred this is the 52nd match to be played upon it so far this season. A sloping pitch from one goalmouth to the other, the sun bright in the sky beginning to fall behind one end. Positively tropical conditions as a pose to the freezing monsoon I endured during last weekends game, bright and sunny a strong breeze blowing across the pitch as the two sides emerged from the dressing room ready to go.

    Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Laura Baker, Lauren Gibson & Gabrielle Whitehurst.

   Coventry United Ladies starting XI – Susan Wood (C), Alexandra Buck, Nikki Miles, Natalie Haigh, Maisie Jerrim, Laura Cooper, Helen Dermody, Jade Brook, Amber Hughes, Marie Gauntlett & Alison Hall. Subs – Elizabeth Steele, Jessica Lundie, Lucy Stead & Rosie McDonnell.

Good to see Carrie Bennett back in the starting line-up for Cambridge after suffering a nasty dislocated elbow on the final day of last season. Up front Kelley Blanchflower leads the line for the home side having been out for a period too with injury. For Coventry United Ladies, Nikki Miles is making her 130th appearance today. Cambridge wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks to kick-off the first half the sun in their faces with Coventry wearing red shirts with green shorts and socks attacking up the slope. 

The visitors press the ball right from the off Laura Cooper winning it in the middle the ball played out to Amber Hughes on the right her ball in cleared by the Cambridge defence. Maisie Jerrim takes a knock for Coventry as she goes up for the ball with Kelley Blanchflower as Cambridge play the ball long up towards her 25 yards from goal, going after the ball Blanchflower wins a free-kick central for Cambridge play stopped so Jerrim can receive treatment. Off the field Cambridge captain, Laura Bright comes forwards to take the free-kick around 25 yards from goal floats the ball in towards the far post players attack the ball, Coventry winning the header the ball clearing the area comes back to Bright she shifts it and shoots her effort wide of goal.

Amber Cantwell, attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim returns to the field for Coventry, Helen Dermody with the ball in the middle plays it on for Jade Brook ahead of her, Brook passes it on for Alison Hall at the top of the box right side puts a cross into the middle, Bright intercepts clearing for Cambridge. Coventry have started well players forwards, a shot comes in from distance, Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford in the Cambridge goal makes a very good save getting up to tip the ball up over her crossbar. The resulting corner played in from the right a good delivery from Dermody across the face of goal is headed clear by Bright for Cambridge.

GOAL! Coventry’s good start brings an early goal as they open the scoring in the 9th minute. Possession with Marie Gauntlett on the left side powers her way up the line holding off her marker whips in a great cross towards the near post, Hall arriving on cue to head the ball in across the keeper to make it 0-1.

Alison Hall scores the opening goal of the game for Coventry United Ladies

Brave goalkeeping from Burgess soon after prevents Coventry from doubling their lead regaining the ball from the restart push players forwards a good diagonal ball along the ground finds Hughes getting into the box behind the Cambridge defence, Burgess reacting quickly to slide in a smother the ball at the attackers feet. Hughes finding room out wide right again cuts inside sees her shot blocked by Bennett from outside the area. 

A strong midfield run from Brook as Coventry come forwards again a corner won on the right another good delivery from Dermody into the six yard box, the ball attacked and headed down towards goal, Burgess from close range making a fantastic double save, stopping the initial effort then blocking the rebound. The home side under pressure early on. Coventry have another corner right side this effort caught up in the breeze dropping near post defended by Cambridge out of the area dropping to Cooper 20 yards out puts her foot through the ball her effort blocked. 

Cambridge are struggling to settle early on find any meaningful possession as Coventry quickly move the ball around. Little for Blanchflower to work with up top the striker knocking the ball on as both Lauren Cartwright and Cantwell get beyond her into the box look to pressure Coventry, goalkeeper and captain Susan Wood able to kick the ball clear. Brook carries the ball forwards for Coventry getting a shot away from 25 yards out her low strike gathered cleanly by Burgess.

 

Kayleigh-Anne Burt bringing the ball on for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim intercepts the ball at the back for Coventry as Blanchflower looks to square a cross from the left along the top of the area, up field for Dermody she tries to release Alexandra Buck on the right the full back fouling Hewitt as she tries to get around her. Not long before Coventry have the ball again moving it on Hall on the right swings a cross into the box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt winning it for Cambridge. 

Dermody starts and finishes another attacking move for Coventry bringing the ball up into the Cambridge half plays it out wide for Hughes on the move on the right wing her cut back along the top of the area met by Gauntlett who sends the ball on for Dermody continuing her run pulls the trigger her shot straight at Burgess the keeper holding onto the ball. 

Half an hour played and Cambridge have a great chance to pull it back to 1-1 Blanchflower putting pressure on the Coventry defence races onto the ball inside the box left of goal closing down Wood looks to lift the ball over the keeper sees her effort kiss the crossbar ad run out of play. Cambridge opportunities are restricted however as Coventry continue to press players forwards keeping Blanchflower isolated. Between the Bennett and Hewitt stop Hughes on the right getting a cross into the area. Cleared the ball soon comes back an early cross in from the right cleared by Burt at the near post. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Kelley Blanchflower

 A free-kick for Cambridge wide left on halfway as Amy Howlett is brought down. Bright on the ball a good delivery up towards Blanchflower at the top of the area, seeing the ball down across her body intends to turn and take it on into the area, Natalie Haigh reads her intentions and not getting too close comes across to put in the tackle. A free-kick up the other end in a dangerous position outside the D for Coventry as Brook is brought down. Cooper over the ball gets her shot in past the wall heading for goal Burgess shuffling across quickly is able to get her gloves on the ball push it away.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp

 Gauntlett on the ball for Coventry coming inside to receive the ball from the left splits the Cambridge defence with a great pass as Hall through the middle beats the offside trap, Burgess with a good starting position however is quickly out of her area to win the kick and clear for the hosts. Late into the 1st half Cambridge get the ball forwards Blanchflower taking it down into the left corner the ball played back up towards the top of the area Charlotte Crisp with the header down looking to put the ball into the path of Cartwright inside the box, the Coventry defence getting in front of her to shield the ball back to Wood. One last attack in the 1st half for Coventry Brook with the strike from 20 yards out sees her effort charged down by Burt.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Coventry United Ladies

    A strong performance from Coventry in the 1st half. With much of the possession and certainly more chances they will be disappointed not to be leading by a larger margin. Conceding an early goal the game threatened to get away from Cambridge, some excellent goalkeeping from Burgess keeping the score down at 1-0 Cambridge are still very much in the tie however will need to have a much better 2nd half and find some meaningful possession on the ball having not settled at all in the 1st half. 

 No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half, Cambridge with the kick-off as Coventry attack down the slope the sun settled lower in the sky. Coventry come forwards the ball played up to Hall on the right is clattered into going to head the ball is left in a heap as play goes on the ball taken down the line swung into the box claimed by Burgess at her near post.  Hall is back up on her feet.

Coventry United Ladies, Amber Hughes

Cooper with the diagonal ball to pick out Hughes making an attacking run down the right taking the ball on plays her cross in long to the far post attacked the header is narrowly over, either way play is stopped by an offside flag. Gauntlett running with the ball central lets fly from all of 35 yards out her strike sailing over the crossbar. Hall flings her arms up in the air inside the box wanting a penalty for Coventry as the ball into her is intercepted, the referee not interested.  

GOAL! As with the 1st half, Coventry score early to double their advantage in the 2nd. Play is over on the left side of the pitch as Coventry build an attack the cross played on towards the area Brook getting to the ball before Burgess can come to clear knocked past the keeper a defender attempts to get back to clear the ball but in vain as it rolls into the back of the net 0-2.

A change for the visitors Jerrim comes off at the back with Rosie McDonnell coming on. Going in on the left side of defence Miles moves forwards into an advanced position on the right, Hughes coming over to the left. Buck defends well against Blanchflower at the back for Coventry as Cambridge send the ball long for her to attack. Setting up a counter attack the ball helped on by Cooper is picked up by Hall 25 yards out hits a venomous shot in towards goal from 25 yards out the ball skimming the top of the crossbar. Burt clears with her head for Cambridge as Coventry get the ball in from the right wing. 

Laura Cooper on the ball in midfield for Coventry United Ladies

A good tempo to the game Coventry continuing to push players forwards a few strong challenges coming in. A corner right side for the visitors flung in near post a crowd up to attack the ball put wide of the post a goal kick the end result. 

GOAL! Coventry extend their lead 15 minutes into the 2nd half players up for a corner taken by Dermody on the right the ball cleared out to the left side, Coventry keep possession Cooper with the ball puts in a fantastic cross from the left up jump Haigh in the middle of the box to power her header into the back of the net, Burgess no chance to react 0-3.

Natalie Haigh makes it 3-0 to Coventry United Ladies

   Cambridge make their 1st change of the game, Laura Baker coming on for Cartwright. Good link up play between Miles and Hughes on the right the latter putting her cross wide beyond the far post. Baker with a strong tackle stops Gauntlett as the Coventry attacker looks to push on through the centre. Coventry have the ball in the back of the net but are denied a 4th goal by the offside flag following good build up play from Cooper out to Miles on the right the ball squared into the area Gauntlett running onto it puts the ball in just inside the post only for the effort to be ruled out.

Coventry’s Cooper and Cambridge’s Crisp challenge for the ball

    Blanchflower is taken down by Buck as she looks to bring the ball on into the Coventry half the set-piece in a central position Cantwell over it looks to lift the ball up into the box to be attack, runners closing Wood down she claims comfortably. A 2nd change for Coventry up top Jessica Lundie comes on to replace Hall in attack. 

   A brilliant save from Wood prevents Cambridge from pulling a goal back as the ball is played up field into the box the clearance runs straight along the ground into the path of the advancing Baker 25 yards out she hits it straight back in towards goal racing for the bottom corner Wood dives full stretch to her right to push the ball behind her goal. From the resulting corner on the left side it’s Brook who gets her head on the ball to clear for Coventry. Gauntlett passes the ball inside for Dermody to her left 25 yards out central her 1st time shot is charged down inside the box. 

GOAL! Cambridge have pushed up as they look to get players forwards are hit on the counter the ball cleared back up field Burgess comes racing out of her area to try and win the bouncing ball getting her head on it fall straight into Brook breaking forwards 40 yards out knowing there is a open goal lobs the stranded keeper sees the ball bounce down over the line 0-4.

Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

Coventry keep coming forwards putting Cambridge under constant pressure, Miles demanding the ball on the right getting onto space linking up well with Brook. Dermody comes close yet again with another strike from distance central her shot striking the crossbar. A free-kick giving Cambridge a chance to get the ball forwards, Bright’s ball is headed on by Baker into Blanchflower looking to turn into the box is again closely watched by Haigh.

Coventry United Ladies, Helen Dermody

   Not long left to play now Coventry make their final change Elizabeth Steele coming on to replace Hughes. Cantwell breaks forwards for Cambridge the ball in for Hewitt up the left wing her cross into the box looping up is over Blanchflower making a central run, Coventry clear. 

GOAL! Into injury time at the end of the game and Coventry score again, substitute Lundie putting the ball past Burgess from the left inside the box as she receives it from Gauntlett attacking down the right 0-5.

Coventry finish the game as strongly as they started it pressing numbers forwards to the final whistle winning the game 0-5 to set up an FAWPL Cup quarter final away to Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The tie scheduled for Sun 11th February.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-5 Coventry United Ladies 

   A dominant performance from the visitors today. Coventry getting off to a great start and keep up a superb all round team performance all game. Getting players forwards good runs on and off the ball causing Cambridge problems and cool at the back when their opponents were able to get forwards.

   One of those days for Cambridge never really got into the match early on as Coventry prevented them getting forwards, Blanchflower having little to feed on up top. Still keeping the score down to 1-0 in the first half gave them hope of getting back into it 2nd half ultimately not to be as their cup run is over. On to the next game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    Interesting one today for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match always a tough choice when you have such a good all round team performance Coventry were strong all over the pitch but particularly in midfield where their attacks often began Gauntlett and Hughes providing good runs left and right, Cooper and Dermody finding them on a regular basis, have all just been edged out by Jade Brook who made some purposeful runs forwards aswell as getting on the scoresheet twice making her today’s Player of the Match.

It’s nice to not feel like a block of ice after a game, roll on summer, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance today is always appreciated.

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 14/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th January

FAWPL Southern Division

Two league games played in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday and 3 points at home for 2nd placed Crystal Palace Ladies see them close the gap on leaders Charlton Athletic Women to just 2 points. Hosting Gillingham FC Ladies the 2 sides were goalless at the half-time break Ellie Stenning scoring the opening goal for Crystal Palace then top scorer Gemma Bryan made it 2-0 to the hosts with her 30th goal of the season.

Queens Park Rangers Ladies travelled to Wales on Sunday looking to build on last Sundays win against bottom side Swindon Town Ladies taking on a side just 3 points ahead of them Cardiff City Ladies. It was advantage to the visitors at half-time with QPR leading 1-0 thanks to a goal from Dominika Netschova in the 38th minute. Cardiff City finding an equaliser in the 63rd Zoe Atkins finding the back of the net to see the sides take a share of the points. Another useful point for QPR nevertheless as it brings them to within 2 points of the sides immediately above them, Gillingham and West Han United Ladies with 3 and 4 matches respectfully in hand on both.

FAWPL Cup

Getting through the ties now with the 2nd Round of the competition heavily affected by the weather in December seeing alot of postponement, the FA Women’s Cup taking precedence last Sunday. Two ties involving sides in the Southern Division and for the 2nd weekend running Charlton Athletic Women were taken into extra-time by their hosts before eventually winning through. Away to one of the sides looking to challenge them for the Southern Division title Charlton were in Essex to play C&K Basildon Ladies. It was Basildon who held the lead at the half-time interval, Angela Addison scoring her 15th goal of the season. It was Charlton’s own top scorer who got the visitors back on level terms 8 minutes into the 2nd half Charlotte Gurr on target with her 23rd of the season. No more goals in the 90 minutes the game went into extra-time and it was another of Charlton’s top shots that scored the winning goal Kit Graham making it 2-1 with her 20th goal of the season.

In the the other all Southern Division tie, Lewes FC Women were at home to Portsmouth FC Ladies in the 2nd Round. Plenty of action in this one, the hosts taking the lead in the 20th minute Portsmouth, Eilidh Currie putting through her own net. Two quickfire goals on the half hour had Lewes storm into a 3-0 lead, captain, Katie McIntyre and then Sarah Kempson scoring. The visitors far from out of it saw Lewes clear twice of the line before the half-time whistle. Rachel Panting was on target for Portsmouth to pull it back to 3-1 on 57 minutes Lewes responding straight away to restore their 3 goal cushion Vicky Carleton with substitute, Georgia Bridges scoring in the last 10 minutes to seal a 5-1 win.

FAWPL Plate

As with the FAWPL Cup competition the Plate was affected too by the weather with 3 ties played this weekend involving sides from the Southern and South East Division One. West Ham United Ladies were on the road in the 2nd Round taking on South West Division One side Brislington Ladies. A brace from Rosie Kmita seeing the Southern Division side leading 2-0 at half-time. The higher league side going on to score more goals 2nd half Molly Peters making it 3-0 on the hour mark. Amber Stobbs and Kelly Wealthall also netting a goal a piece before Kmita wrapped up her hat-trick in the final minutes 6-0 the final score.

Keynsham Town Ladies are going well in South West Division One were away in the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Plate taking on Swindon Town Ladies bottom of the FAWPL Southern Division it was another defeat for Swindon heavy too with Keynsham Town racking up double figures, Kerry Bartlett previously a prolific goal scorer for Cardiff City Ladies scoring 5 of Keynsham Town’s goals in a 10-1 win. Emily Arrell scoring in the 1st half for Swindon.

It was an all Division One clash in the other 2nd Round tie played in the FAWPL Plate at the weekend with South East side Luton Town Ladies hosting their South West counterparts, Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies both at the time 4th in their respective leagues. Natasha Fensome scoring for Luton Town, Jess McKay also scoring to see the hosts hold a 2-0 lead at half-time. Luton extending their lead in the 2nd half with McKay netting her 2nd before Southampton pulled it back to 3-1 with Krystal Whyte scoring the goal Luton going on to win and reach the quarter finals.

FAWPL South East Division One

 4 matches played in the FAWPL South East Division one this Sunday. It was 2nd v 3rd with Leyton Orient WFC away to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. 4 points between the sides going into the game. It was the hosts who took an early lead in the game with Charly Clarke putting Milton Keynes in front in the 13th minute. Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half and Leyton Orient pulled it back to 1-1 with Vanessa Wilson getting the goal. Time for Milton Keynes to retake the lead in the 1st half with a minute remaining Louise Naylor on hand to put the ball into the back of the net. 2-1 the half-time score Milton Keynes successfully defending the advantage to claim all 3 points closing the gap on Leyton Orient.

 Ipswich Town Ladies move back into 4th place in the South East Division One table following a big win at home against bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Leading 5-0 at half-time the hosts went on to win the game 9-0 to put themselves within reach of the sides above the once again. Sophie Welton (pictured) top scoring in the match with 4 goals. Captain Amanda Crump getting 2 goal in the match too with a goal each for Natasha Thomas, Cassie Craddock and Miagh Downey.

A good result at home for Cambridge United WFC as they put pressure on the sides above them in the top half of the table in 6th were hosting Stevenage Ladies at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday. Amber Cantwell’s goal the difference between the 2 sides at half-time giving Cambridge the lead. A good contest Stevenage with an opportunity to level from the penalty spot in the 2nd half with Amy Makewell brought down. Chloe Gunn stepping up to score to make it 1-1. Cambridge responding promptly however got up the other end of the pitch and Amy Howlett scored to put the back into the lead and go on to win the game 2-1. 

Norwich City Ladies 2nd bottom in the South East Division One table know they need points on the board if they are to have any hopes of pulling another side down into a scrap at the bottom of the table, were away on Sunday, Denham United Ladies immediately above them in 10th the gap 9 points. Annie Hewitt with the only goal of the 1st half seeing Denham leading 1-0. Into the 2nd half and Denham were awarded a penalty Alissa own stepping up to take and score. Down going on to score a brace to give the home side a 3-0 lead. A great strike from Natasha Snelling 3 minutes from time for Norwich seeing the game end 3-1. Denham moving above Stevenage into 9th, Norwich 10 points adrift of the sides above them but they have been down and out before and turned it around. 

The Round-Up – 17/12/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th December

The final edition of The Round-Up for 2017 and a one off reverting back to the Tuesday Round-Up format with another weather affected Sunday wreaking havoc on the fixture lists with plenty of postponements right across the East. 16 games were played a handful across the divisions makes sense to put them all together, much better than the previous Sunday when just 2 games beat the weather. 

FAWPL

Starting with the FAWPL one game played in the Southern Division and it was a great end to the year to cap off a fantastic first half of the season for Crystal Palace Ladies as they climb back into 2nd spot having been amongst the forerunners in the league all season. On the road taking on West Ham United Ladies a goal from Northern Ireland International, Ciara Sherwood midway through the 1st half saw Crystal Palace leading 1-0 at the break, despite looking comfortable with their lead the visitors didn’t double their lead until the 88th minute to secure all three points, Gemma Bryan with her 29th goal of the season. Level on points with C&K Basildon Ladies both on 28 are 5 behind leaders Charlton Athletic Women with both having a game in hand the new year promises to be exciting.

For the 2nd weekend running the FAWPL Cup 2nd Round was heavily affected by the weather several ties postponed once again now rolled over into the new year. One tie did survive the weather however and it was a cup upset with Southern Division side, Cardiff City Ladies knocked out of the competition by South West Division One side, Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The visitors travelling to Wales in excellent form unbeaten in league and cup ended the year with that record intact, a goal from Rebecca Atkins giving Plymouth a 1st half lead. Natasha Knapman doubling their advantage 20 minutes into the 2nd half. Cori Williams pulling it back to 2-1 for Cardiff City, the lower league side progressing through to the next round.

In FAWPL South East Division One, it was a winning end to the year for Enfield Town Ladies the 3 points lifting them up to 7th spot in the league table. At home on Sunday taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. The hosts taking the lead 22 minutes into the 1st half through an own goal. Sheryce Slater making it 2-0 to Enfield just 4 minutes later. Leading 2-0 at half-time Enfield pressed the advantage 2nd half extending their lead in the 66th minute, Daisy Jenkins on target. Andrea Vivas scoring Enfield’s 4th goal with 20 minutes left scored again for her double towards the end of the match along with Danielle Smith the final score 6-0.

ERWFL

With all their games postponed last Sunday the ERWFL was trying again to play their League Cup and Plate ties, frozen pitches seeing games called off for a 2nd time just two ties from the 3rd Round of the League Cup were decided with the away side in both games progressing through to the quarter finals. Current ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Cambridge City Ladies were hosting Bedford Ladies both in good form a hard game to call. Cambridge City scoring through Bella Simmons it wasn’t enough as last season’s finalists were knocked out of the competition with Bedford winning the tie 3-1 to advance.

    An all Essex affair at the Harlow Arena with ERWFL debutants Harlow Town Ladies entertaining Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies again another tough game to call but with Brentwood getting so recent momentum in the league it was the higher league side who booked their spot in the quarter finals winning the game 2-0 with Marie Barker and Georgia Holdaway scoring their goals.

Norfolk

One game in the Norfolk Women’s Football League survived the weather on Sunday, in Division Two with 4th placed Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Freethorpe Ladies, a great result for the visitors to end the year 2 goals for captain Claire Garner, (one from the penalty spot) along with a goal for Amy Morris seeing Freethorpe win the game 3-1 the 3 points moving them up a place into 5th in the league. Paige Baker with the goal in the 2nd half for Kirkley & Pakefield.

Cambridgeshire

Another heavily affected fixture list across Cambridgeshire on Sunday with 2 games played. In the Women’s Premiership, leaders Netherton United Ladies ended 2017 with a massive 12 point lead at the top of the table. A fantastic opening start to the season were hosting March Town United Ladies at The Grange. The visitors holding the advantage at half-time with a 2-1 lead having scored twice within the opening 10 minutes of the match, Livvi Hodges and Shannon Kelly the goalscorers. Netherton pulling it back to 2-1 with a goal from Emily Johnson in the final minute of the 1st half. The home side equalising early in the 2nd half with Georgina Parrett sending the ball home it make it 2-2. Johnson scored again to put Netherton into the lead with 20 minutes left to play. Yasmin Green making it 4-2 from the penalty spot before Johnson completed her hat-trick with 3 minutes left on the clock to see Netherton win 5-2.

In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup, it was an all Championship South tie with league leaders Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds hosting Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Marie Stubbings scoring a brace for Fulbourn has 25 goals for the season now from just 9 appearances. There were goals too for Emma Clarke and Yasmin Upson along with Marcela Mundz who scored her 1st goal of the season. Fulbourn advancing into the next round with a 5-0 win.

Essex

In Essex the 1st Round of the Women’s League Cup was scheduled to be played again affected by the weather just 3 ties were played on Sunday with big home wins for all 3 Premier Division sides drawn against Division One opponents. Collier Row Tigers reaching the final of the League Cup last season were at home to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. Laura Bunton netting 4 goals for the Premier Division outfit half their tally in an 8-0 victory the other goals shared out between Marta Choruzy, Sarah Finch, Emma Harrison and Rebecca Killington.

Another side to score 8 goals at home on Sunday in the 1st Round of the League Cup were Premier Division side, Eastern Avenue taking on Waltham Forest Ladies. Katie Peers taking her goals scored to 13 so far with a hat-trick in the game. Hannah Warner moving onto 10 goals too with a brace for Eastern Avenue. Amara Drummond, Teliscia Linton and Lorna Huddleston with her 1st goal of the season also scoring in an 8-2 victory.

A potential upset in the League Cup on the cards in the other 1st Round tie played in the League Cup on Sunday with Harlow Town Ladies struggling for points in the Premier Division hosting Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies. In the end a comfortable and much welcome win for the home side as Harlow advanced through to the next round with a 5-0 win, Casey Lunn scoring twice with Rubie Smith, Amber Strows and captain Rebecca Pope all getting on the scoresheet.

One game played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday, 2nd versus 3rd with Leigh Ramblers Ladies hosting Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies both looking to close the gap on Hullbridge Sports Ladies. Both having to settle for a point each as the match ended without neither goal breached 0-0 both having lost just the once this season with be pushing Hullbridge Sports still with a 100% record hard in the New Year.

Beds & Herts 

A great end to the year for Houghton Athletic Ladies in Beds & Herts Division One taking their unbeaten run to 4 matches climb up to 4th in the league with a good away win on Sunday against Garston Ladies. Both Ciara Craig and Becky Sullivan scoring a brace in the match for the visitors. Emily Wilson, along with Louise and Rachel Spendelow were also on target in a 7-1 victory.

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the title race on well and truly on as 2017 ends with leaders Garston Ladies 2nd Xi beaten for the 1st time this season at home to Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires on Sunday the 3rd placed side closing the gap to just 2 points Georgina Harvey scoring a hat-trick. April Spang netting a brace along with Chemise Huitson also scoring in a 6-1 win for Welwyn Pegasus. Maxine Hotz getting Garston’s goal. 

In between Garston Ladies 2nd XI and Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires are Royston Town Ladies Reserves winning away from home on Sunday to move level on points with Garston at the top of Division Two. Playing bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues, Samantha Edgar netting a brace for Royston. Paige Rolfe and Jazmin Racher were also on the scoresheet in a 4-0 win.

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies end the year on a high as they move into 2nd spot in the league table with a comfortable 5-0 win away from home against bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies.

 A weather affected end to the year, my thanks to all that have enjoyed reading The Round-Up throughout the year plenty of excitement and action to look forwards too in the New Year. After all nothing is settled at Christmas. Enjoy your festive period and have a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.