Category Archives: Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

Cup Final Special – Colney Heath Ladies v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 20th March

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final

At Letchworth’s County Ground this afternoon for the 1st cup final of the season. Back after a 2 season hiatus the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup. Plenty of massive fixtures across the region this weekend but this will see the 1st bit of silverware lifted with Colney Heath Ladies featuring in there first ever county cup final taking on Stevenage FC Women who have featured in every final covered by Women’s Football East to date.

  Covid of course the reason for the 2 season hiatus, but it’s great to see end of season showpieces returning with a busy schedule looming, (wouldn’t have it any other way). Hertfordshire usually the first of the county cup finals to be held getting underway back in September with 35 entrants. The finalists with contrasting history in the competition.

  Colney Heath Ladies reaching the County Cup Final for the 1st time. Promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division in 2017 have gone on to become an established side in the league. Youth at the heart of their development an influx of talent the season before last has seen the side push on this season and although Wymondham Town Ladies already have the title sown up the race for runners-up spot is very much on Colney Heath currently 6th just 4 points off 2nd with games in hand on all the sides above them. Was at the County Ground I first saw Colney heath play in their first ever final the ERWFL Plate, this their greatest achievement to date reaching the County Cup Final for the first time.

  Stevenage FC Women playing in the league above are in a battle to avoid the drop from FAWNL South East Division One. Now run by the Stevenage FC Foundation, the restructuring seeing quite alot of player movement along with a managerial change with Fadi Mazloum now managing the 1st team. With 4 sides likely to go down this season Stevenage were struggling for points 2nd bottom however a run of 3 wins from 4 against the sides down there with them has put them right back into contention to wrestle free of the drop zone and given them momentum and confidence at a crucial stage of the season. have dominated the County Cup in recent seasons. This now Stevenage’s home ground too with the County Ground their base although for today’s game they are the ‘away’ side.

Today’s prize

Road to the Final

A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Colney Heath were to take on Beds & Herts Division Three newcomers St Margaretsbury Women at home in the 2nd Round, a convincing win in the finish against a side who would go onto win their league, 13-0 with Lily Hall bagging a double hat-trick. Stevenage were at home to facing Beds & Herts Premier Division side Garston Ladies. Holly Greenwood with a brace amongst the goals in a 4-0 win.

Into the 3rd Round Colney Heath presented with a tricky tie away to ERWFL Division One South high flyers Cheshunt FC Women. Goals from Christina Freestone and Lucy Hancock seeing them edge the game 2-1 to progress to the last 8. Stevenage awarded an away win against Hitchin Town Women Canaries.

  Colney Heath at home to another Division One South side in the quarter finals taking on Wodson Park Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 victory putting them into the semi-finals. Stevenage at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women pushing for the title at that point, goals from Greenwood and Vicky Neal securing a 2-1 win to take them into the last 4.

  Coney Heath drawn to face cup holders Watford FC Women Development in the semi-finals, Sasha Manders firing them into an early lead. Grainne Kellet later on doubling the advantage to send Colney Heath into their first ever County Cup Final. Stevenage away to Bed & Herts Premier Division side Oaklands Wolves Ladies 4 divisions between the sides Stevenage were comfortable winners. Paige Pryor netting a brace with a foal each for Greenwood, Dionne Manning, Vicky Neal and Lucy Webster to take them into another final.

  Been a while since I’ve ventured to the County Ground, in Letchworth home of Hertfordshire FA. Today themselves launching a pledge to level up the gulf that still exists between the numbers of men and women registered to play the game within the county. Stevenage themselves amongst a growing number of clubs supporting the #HerGameToo initiative to tackle sexism within the game.

Stevenage supporting the #HerGameToo initiative

The ground with some redevelopment in recent seasons a new artificial playing surface, overlooked by the large main seated stand with terracing around the ground. The cafe/clubhouse upgraded too. The pitch a decent size, a great day for the final bright and sunny with no chance of rain as we enter spring. The sun low behind one goal may well cause issues during the game. 

Colney Heath Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Naomi Swift, Ella Holmes, Lucy Hancock (C), Kelly Hancock, Sofia Santangelo, Lauren Appleby, Esme Hume, Grainne Kellet, Tia Steadman, Sasha Manders & Terri Harvey. Subs – Lily Hall, Lilly Nellis, Daniela Monastero, Melissa Godino & Annie Hickey.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Kate French, Lucy Webster (C), Chloe Gunn, Vicky Neal, Holly Greenwood, Shianne Swarres, Jodie Southby, Jodie Bellinger, Emily Schofield & Amy Makewell. Subs – Poppy Bennett, Stef Paci, Dionne manning, Ailish Straver & Paige Pryor.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Ex-Arsenal and England player Sian Williams the guest of honour for today’s final, introduced to the teams before kick-off. A great sized crowd gathered around the ground for the match. It’s Stevenage to get this season’s County Cup Final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and white shirts with red shorts and socks. Attacking into the sun with Coney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. The ball clipped long out to the right wing Colney Heath defending seeing the ball out safely for a goal kick.

Kate French bringing the ball on into space on the left for Stevenage plays the pass into central midfield for Shianne Swarres, she in turn sweeps a diagonal ball out to the right with Jodie Bellinger bombing on, Colney Heath captain Lucy Hancock over on that side regaining possession. Colney Heath sitting back inviting Stevenage on somewhat in the early exchanges Kelly Hancock challenging for the ball lifted into Amy Makewell outside the D, spring a counter attack the ball fed out to Sasha Manders over on the left travelling on into the corner wrapping her foot around the cross lifting a high ball into the box is taken high by Stevenage goalkeeper, Tea Oldroyd inside her six yard box.

  Esme Hume nipping in to win the ball inside her own half lifting the ball forwards quickly for Terri Harvey to go after, Chloe Gunn  getting to the bouncing ball first to clear at the back for Stevenage. Grainne Kellet exploiting a gap on the right to run into taking the ball on for Colney Heath, doesn’t get far as Vicky Neal racing across to cover the ground puts in a strong tackle to send the ball out for a throw. A long throw put into the box from the right by Colney Heath bouncing up over Harvey at the near post, Oldroyd grabbing it into her gloves beyond.

Grainne Kellet bringing the ball on for Colney Heath

    Tentative start overall Stevenage allowed to come on with the ball Colney Heath deep keeping compact not easy to break down. Colney Heath’s, Kelly Hancock across to tackle Amy Makewell as she moves into the left channel looking to provide the passing option for Holly Greenwood winning the ball back in central midfield. Swarres is proving a formidable barrier in midfield for Colney heath to bypass, more often than not the beginnings of an attack is snuffed out by the central midfielder with Jodie Bellinger an Southby looking to provide options left and right to keep the pressure inside their opponents half. 

  French moving left with the ball spreads play diagonally out to the right Southby, tackled, Colney Heath look to counter Manders taking the ball up the line Swarres moving in quickly to tackle keep the pressure on down the right side Stevenage winning a corner kick. Players up from the back the ball in near side headed out of the area away to the right Swarres getting hold of it with support from Neal looking to work and opening, Kelly Hancock getting the tackle in Holly Greenwood onto the loose ball attempts to battle through the defence the box too congested no way through.

Esme Hume with the ball on the right helping to break up a Stevenage attack sets up a counter mover feeding the ball on for Grainne Kellet out on the flank, travels a long way with the ball holding off a challenge to get down to the by-line and fire a low cross in towards the near post met by Terri Harvey six yards out turns the ball goalwards, Oldroyd is right behind it to make the save. Colney Heath are compact making it a challenge to drive through the middle space available out with the full backs able to come on a corner won on the left. 

  An inswinging delivery to the near post the defensive header sending it out to the right side well beyond the far post, falling to Emily Schofield she shoots on the angel the ball looping towards goal. Colney Heath goalkeeper Naomi Swift back-peddling to reach it with a good save to glove the ball away to safety taking a knock in the process, play stopped so she can receive treatment. Colney Heath with a free-kick on the right out to Hume on the wing forwards her cross driven into Harvey arriving top of the area right of the D, Swarres rushing back sliding it with a strong challenge to win the ball.

  Is a close contest, Stevenage with more of the ball able to come on Coney Heath soaking up pressure. Schofield moving out to the right taking the ball on from Bellinger drives on with the ball at her feet lets fly from the angle her shot fired in across the face of goal wide, Southby closing in can’t quite reach it to deflect in at the far post. Swarres sliding in to halt another Colney Heath advance, lifting the ball over to Bellinger on the right, the flag up however ha strayed offside. Hume putting the ball on into Harvey up top for Colney Heath combines with Tia Steadman looking to release Manders on the left in behind the pass short intercepted by Gunn.

Stevenage midfielder, Shianne Swarres

  Swarres winning the ball 25 yards out threads it through the defence, Schofield breaking clear into the box, Swift advancing it lay claim to the ball first. Amy Makewell with a strike from outside the D moments later, held by the Colney Heath keeper. Hume charging down Greenwood’s attempted cross as the gathers the ball from a throw on the left. French forwards on the left inside to Swarres some 35 yards out time and space to line up a shot sent in on target but at a comfortable height for Swift to catch. 

Colney Heath’s Sasha Manders

 Colney Heath competing for the ball well enough but deep back defending there box getting out in numbers is proving difficult, Stevenage regaining possession coming straight back at them, Bellinger over on the left now going in to challenge for the ball deflects favourably to let her run in behind. Towards the area turns inside looking for an opening to shoot, Colney heath captain, Lucy Hancock closing in to make a great tackle to thwart her. Kelly Hancock in turn out to tackle Bellinger, Hume taking up possession on for Kellet on the wing a race with French, the full back getting across her to roll the ball back to her keeper to clear.

   GOAL! Midway through the 1st half and Stevenage’s pressure brings the opening goal attacking on the left the ball at Bellinger’s feet she drills a great ball across the six yard box with Schofield wriggling free to connect and turn the ball past Swift into the back of the net 0-1.

Emily Schofield fires Stevenage into the lead

  Changes then for both sides, Dionne Manning coming on for Stevenage, Melissa Godino for Colney Heath replacing Appleby. Kellet has pace out right for Colney Heath looks to travel with the ball whenever she can, French needing to stay alert getting back on her to lunge in to tackle. A free-kick won for Stevenage wide right top of the area the ball lifted in near side headed out to the top of the D put back inside Kellet heading it away, falling to Gunn who sends a curling diagonal ball back into the far post Colney Heath in again to win the defensive header clearing the threat.

Colney Heath’s Melissa Godino

Godino taking the ball on through the centre for Colney Heath has Manders moving into space over on the right picking her out French closes her down challenging to regain possession unfairly however Colney Heath with the free-kick. The ball into the box comfortably defended by Stevenage. Colney Heath with a 2nd change, Lily Hall on for Steadman. Webster advancing on the right for Stevenage with the diagonal pass inside for Schofield right of the D turns into the shot a low effort gathered by Swift back on her line. Swarres moving on through the middle with the ball unleashing a shot from 20 yards out right side of the D runs wide of the far post. 

  Stef Paci a recent signing for Stevenage from London bees comes on replacing Greenwood in the midfield. Makewell battling for control of the ball 25 yards out squeezes it through to Schofield top of the D, shifts to shoot pulling her strike narrowly wide of the right post. Colney Heath working the ball into their attackers, Harvey and Manders linking well in the middle rolled back to Godino who in turn sweeps a pass out to Ella Holmes free on the right getting into the box takes on the shot the ball angled low into the keeper at the near post. Hall running on with the ball top of the area her shot blocked by Gunn. 

  Kelly Hancock fouls Makewell as she tries to get the ball under control as it is cleared up to her from the back, the free-kick to the right. Makewell with Webster on the right the cross fire into the middle of the box Manning can’t get it down onto her feet before the ball is scramble away to safety. Colney Heath getting players further forwards late in the 1st half are hit on the counter with Bellinger coming away with the ball on the left. Plays in diagonal pass inside looking to pick Schofield, Kelly Hancock intercepting for Colney Heath. 

Stevenage’s Dionne Manning with Colney Heath’s Daniela Monastero

  Holmes central with space in midfield plays the ball on for Manders on the right of attack, shifts inside before taking on the strike top of the are, swerving through the air but doesn’t cause Oldroyd any problems. Into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Colney heath coming forwards left side the cross turned away to the right for a throw in, another long delivery in the box, bouncing Oldroyd claiming it high.

Half-time Colney heath Ladies 0-1 Stevenage FC Women

  A narrow 1-0 lead for Stevenage at the break, scored midway through the half by Emily Schofield. Colney Heath soaking up alot of pressure defending deep at time wanting to be hard to break down has allowed Stevenage to come on at will at times their full backs joining the attack whilst the midfield, Swarres in particular have prevented Colney heath getting the ball out up to their attacking players. Chances created without the keeper being overly tested, Stevenage will want to be more clinical 2nd half. Defending well Colney Heath will have to come out more 2nd half if they want to score and with 1 goal in it still all to play for.

  With roll on roll off substitutes it’s not always easy to keep track of who is on and who is off. Stevenage appear unchanged with Annie Hickey on at the back for Colney heath who get the 2nd half underway defending with the low sun in their eyes. Played out to the back Stevenage in quickly to pressure the ball, Paci out to Manning moving right her cross met by Schofield at the near post, takes a deflection as it runs wide of the post for a corner. Players up into the box the delivery from the right turned on to the left Gunn outside the area hooking it back in towards the near post Neal getting something on it heading the ball over the defence claimed by Swift beyond.

   Manders is fouled trying to get forwards for Colney Heath on the left side no advantage play brought back. The game looking more open now Colney Heath looking to get players into advanced positions take the attack to Stevenage. Swarres in the middle out to Bellinger on the left side runs into traffic forced back play spread to Webster right on up the line for Manning her cross angled in to the area headed clear by Hickey. 

Colney Heath’s Annie Hickey

Hickey then out of the area to charge down Swarres as she bursts forwards from midfield. Harvey moving out to the right for Colney Heath sending a cross long through the six yard box. Kellet back on the right for Colney Heath getting on with the ball cutting it back into Manders top of the box, is closed down quickly by the Stevenage defence. A different feel to the 2n half more open as Colney heath look to apply some pressure in the final 3rd. Paci turning on the ball centrally clipping a diagonal ball out to Manning on the right her cross dipping in front of goal headed away by Hickey. 

  Colney Heath break left side Hall bursting forwards her low cross for Harvey inside the are Oldroyd comes sliding out Harvey nicking it beyond her, caught by the keepers trailing leg, can’t get to the ball before it is cleared to safety, looked a good shout for a penalty but no one appeals play goes on. Stevenage making a change on the hour breaking on Paige Pryor up top for Makewell. Daniela Monastero on in midfield for Colney Heath moving on with the ball covering alot of ground before Neal moves out to close her down.

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

  Kellett right side plays the ball inside to Steadman free for a moment top of the area turns into the shot no power behind her strike however as it rolls harmlessly through to Oldroyd. Gunn holding off Hall at the back seeing the ball safely back to her keeper to clear. Harvey taking on the Stevenage defence looking to plough her way through into the area, Neal across her though shielding the ball well back to Oldroyd. 

Chloe Gunn winning the ball for Stevenage

 Pryor looks to be in on goal left of the D bringing a cross down from the wing, Lucy Hancock getting back on her well to deny the chance, Swift down to smother the ball as Manning goes in for it. Changes around as Southby returns for Stevenage along with Ailish Straver replacing Bellinger and Swarres. Appleby returning to the pitch for Colney Heath. Pryor nips in to steal a misplaced pass at the back from Colney heath on the left side 25 yards out takes on the shot angled in low saved by Swift at her near post. 

Colney Heath captain, Lucy Hancock

  Colney Heath gaining momentum feeling they can get themselves back on level terms risking leaving gaps at the back. Manders on the left space to take the ball into her cross won by Straver. The ball bouncing through the middle Neal finding herself under pressure between two Colney Heath attackers isn’t fazed dealing with the threat comfortably. Godino winning the ball in midfield into Steadman, turns into traffic the ball lost. Poppy Bennett coming on for Stevenage replacing Schofield with game moving into the final 20 minutes. 

Vicky Neal winning the challenge for Stevenage

Pryor moving across the top of the D left to right for Stevenage blazes a shot over the crossbar. The game stretched players tiring, the ball played into Manning top of the D spins it out to French clear on the right, Lucy Hancock recovering to slide in pressuring the ball back with her keeper. Stevenage pushing on looking to stretch Colney Heath at the back.

 GOAL! On 75 minutes Stevenage score a crucial 2nd goal, the ball put into Manning’s feet back to goal 25 yards out sees French breaking on her left, the ball rolled out to her right of goal she checks inside to strike a left footed shots around the keeper into the corner of the net 0-2.

Kate French doubles Stevenage’s lead

 Colney Heath with a series of changes Santangelo amongst those back on as Monastero plays the ball on for Harvey the cross in long Hall on the far side retrieving it on the by-line scooping a dangerous cross in near post, Steadman there close in on goal with Oldroyd, the keeper under some pressure bating it away before being cleared. French off for Stevenage, Makewell back on. Lilly Nellis on for Colney Heath for Steadman who has picked up a knock. 

GOAL! Stevenage go on to extend their lead late on the game a blow for Colney Heath, their opponents coming down the left the ball played into the middle for Makewell right over the D bringing the ball down carry’s it in field into Straver who strikes the ball in towards goal a fantastic strike to lob the keeper from outside the box fly in under the crossbar 0-3.

Ailish Straver making in 3-0 to Stevenage

  Stevenage scoring two quick goals late in the game taking control of the final. A free-kick won in front of the centre circle Gunn on it goes for goal her effort bouncing wide of the post. Hall on the drive with the ball for Colney Heath on the left whips in a cross far post, Bennett rising to head it away for Stevenage. 

GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes Monastero is fouled for Colney heath 25 yards out to the left of the Stevenage goal. Manders placing the ball down to take the set-piece. Takes on the strike is hit well sent up over the wall, to dip beyond beating Oldroyd rising on her line to drop under the bar and in 1-3.

Sasha Manders scoring from a superb free-kick

  Is there to be late drama in the game the tie going to penalties if the scores were to be level at full time. Stevenage though are an experienced side now comes down to ball management, Colney Heath looking to press the ball leaving gaps all over the pitch. Manning and Paci winning challenges in the middle the play spread. Neal and Gunn keeping it tight through the middle. Greenwood back on for Straver in the closing minutes. Kellett for Godino for Colney Heath. 

 Gunn playing the ball onto Greenwood eft of the D digging a shot out of her feet the dipping effort held by Swift. Space on the right Webster forwards crossing into the area the ball cleared turned back in cleared out to Greenwood top of the D lashes a shot in Swift up doesn’t get it as it comes crashing down off the crossbar before being scramble clear. Stevenage with the ball as 4 minutes of stoppage time is signalled. Colney Heath can’t find any meaningful possession in the closing moments Stevenage readily winning the ball back celebrate as the final whistle blows.

Full time Colney Heath Ladies 1-3 Stevenage FC Women

  Stevenage winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup for a 4th time beating Colney Heath 3-1. A game of two halves with Colney Heath soaking up alot of pressure 1st half allowing Stevenage to come on keeping it tight difficult to break down going in trailing by just a single goal. Was a more open 2nd half chances created for both sides, Stevenage scoring a quick double inside the final 15 minutes to take control of the game. 3-0 though harsh on Colney Heath a battling display getting a goal back to make it 3-1 a fine free-kick from Sasha Manders. Stevenage though were in no mood to throw it all away and kept the ball well to see out the closing stages coming close to adding to their score line. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. One player standing out a few performances of note to mention first though. For Colney Heath, Kelly Hancock was strong in defence with a number of tackles and interceptions. Sasha Manders out wide looking to take the ball on create openings up front scoring a superb free-kick. Esme Hume at just 16 years of age impressing too. For Stevenage Vicky Neal was solid and composed at the back unfazed and reading and dealing with threats. Up top Emily Schofield was strong getting into some great positions opening the scoring. The award today though goes to midfielder Shianne Swarres, broke up play on numerous occasions Colney Heath often seeing an attack broken up before it had begun. Used the ball well spreading the ball out to the flanks.

 Congratulations to Stevenage FC Women on winning this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup.

  Great to see a final back at the County Ground the first of many to report upon this season back to it on Tuesday night at the Abbey Stadium for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final between Cambridge City Ladies and Newmarket Tow Ladies. An enjoyable first final of the season to watch in front of a strong crowd. My thanks to Hertfordshire FA for there help today and both sides for the team details much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 19/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th January

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

The County Cup action continues across both Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this weekend with both competitions at the semi-final stage. Beginning with the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup, Luton Town Ladies had seen off rivals and current holders Bedford Ladies in the quarters finals were away to AFC Dunstable Women in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday. Both playing in the ERWFL, Dunstable’s new look young side struggling for points at the bottom of the table on a steep learning curve doing well to hold Luton to a goalless first half. Luton taking the lead 7 minutes into the 2nd half Ellie Sargeant with an absolute worldie to score her 1st goal for the club. 20 minutes left to play Dunstable fighting back to level the scores Lottie Nicholls with her first Dunstable goal. Luton though coming straight back to retake the lead with top scorer Jess McKay’s 14th goal of the season enough to take Luton into another Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup final.

The BHWGFL was already gaurenteed representation in a County Cup final this season as the other semi-final in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup saw Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies at home to Division Two title challengers Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Scoring plenty of goals Woburn & Wavendon have also proved hard to break down at times this season and both saw them to victory in their semi-final clash. Keeping Houghton Athletic from scoring at one end ht them for 6 at the other end to book their spot in the final. Top scorer Giselle Randall scoring 4 in the game to move her to 17 for the season a brace in both halves. Georgia-Rose Edwards with two goals in the final 5 minutes to finish the scoring.

  The Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2pm kick-off further details to be announced.

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

Semi-final weekend too in Hertfordshire the Women’s Challenge Cup, and it will be a repeat of last season’s final with Stevenage FC Women and holders Watford U23s winning thier respective games on Sunday.

  Stevenage FC Women were at home taking on Watford Ladies Development. the FAWNL South East Division One side enjoying alot of success recently in the County Cup taking the lead through Ashleigh Deacon’s 3rd strike of the season, captain Amy Makewell firing home her 13th goal of the season doubling Stevenage’s advantage midway through the 2nd half to send them into the final itself for the sixth consecutive year.

Amy Makewell with her 13th goal of the season helping to secure Stevenage FC Women a sixth consecutive County Cup Final appearance (photo credit Gary Reed)

  Holders Watford U23s were away to ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies in their semi-final at the weekend. Top scorer Samaira Khan coming on in the 38th minute opening the scoring in the 39th rounding the keeper to make it 1-0. Colney Heath with the advantage at half-time chances to extend their lead were restricting Watford’s chances at the other end the visitors though coming back to level with 15 minutes left to play through an unfortunate own goal ricocheting in off the keeper. Watford winning the game with 2 minutes left on the clock a looping ball forwards sent home to see them through to a 2nd successive cup final. 

 The Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2;30pm kick-off at the County Ground Letchworth.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Four games played across the 3 divisions in the BHWGFL this weekend. 2nd placed St Albans Ladies in action were at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday A 2-2 draw with leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies last weekend kept the gap between them to 3 points St Albans with a game in hand playing again this Sunday a positive result taking them top of the table on goal difference. Top scorer Eleanor Lovelock opening the scoring in the first half her 24th goal if the season coming in the 26th minute. Millie Guest with her first goal of the season just past the hour securing a 2-0 win for St Albans to sent them top of the league.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Two games played in Beds & Herts Division Two this Sunday despite what my results posts may have led you to believe. AFC Dunstable Blues going top of the table last weekend were at home again this weekend taking on Garston Ladies Vintage Purples. The damage done in the opening 10 minutes a quick fire double seeing Dunstable into a 2 goal lead, Kerry Mulvihill-Reed on target to score her 4th goal of the season in the 8th minute, Nicola Hollick scoring her 21st of the season 2 minutes later, Garston unable to find a reply, Dunstable with further chances to extend their lead move 5 points clear of 3rd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. 

 Keeping pace with Dunstable in 2nd though are Langford Ladies remain a point behind as they won well away from home on Sunday in Division Two against Sherrardswood Ladies. Scoring half as many goals as Dunstable so far this season have by far the tightest defence in the league conceding just 3 goals so far from 8 played, another clean sheet at the weekend. Amber Clark with half of Langford’s goals, netting a hat-trick at the weekend to put her onto 15 for the campaign so far, Sophie Bounds also celebrating a goal along with Harriet Ford on the scoresheet for the first time this season Langford winning 5-0.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

 One game in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three to report on, Biggleswade United Ladies moving back into 2nd spot with a comfortable home win over Flitwick Eagles Ladies on Sunday. Kayleigh Saunders scoring 5 times to see her closing in on 20 goals for the season. The goals spread around elsewhere with 4 other players on the scoresheet. Zoe Molloy collecting her 10th goal of the season, Tashai Simms putting the ball into the back of the net for her 7th a goal too for Jodie Molloy and a first Biggleswade goal for Vikki Ransom. The final score 9-0.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

League leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies sat out the first round of fixtures in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this Sunday giving another opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap at the top that had opened up to 6 points at the end of 2019. St Albans Ladies up to 2nd in the table mounting a strong challenge losing just one game so far this season with a game in hand on Hemel Hempstead were looking to narrow it to 3 points at home to Hitchin Town Ladies this Sunday before they meet Hemel Hempstead for the 2nd time this season this coming Sunday. This Sunday an early set back for St Albans as they fell behind Estelle Klausner with her first goal for Hitchin  putting the visitors into the lead. St Albans though fought back to level and go on to win the match 3-1 with Cally Salter scoring a hat-trick to move her onto 16 goals for the season.

Hot on St Albans Ladies heels a point behind in 3rd place are Northwood Ladies as they racked up a big result away from home to bottom side Hitchin Belles at the start of the new year. A tough first half of the season playing in Division One for Hitchin Belles having won the Division Two title last season, the bare 11 available on Sunday, Northwood a strong side with plenty of goals in them. Top scorer Emma Steele captaining the side on Sunday scoring a hat-trick to put her on 15 for the season. Three players netting a brace, Leanne Jones, Hannah Marshall and her appearance Megan Warner. First goals too for Lucy Wallace and Lisa-Marie Carty with Zamina Rehemtulla also on the scoresheet in a 12-2 win for Northwood. Gemma Smith and Emma Wallis scoring for Hitchin Belles.

 Making up the top four in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One are Hartham United Ladies, started 2020 with an away trip to 2nd bottom Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Steffany Cowell opening the scoring for Hartham with a fantastic 25 yards strike with the outside of her boot. Letchworth coming back to level the scores. Top scorer Janiece Allen put through on goal to beat the keeper restoring Hartham’s lead 2-1 up a misplaced goal kick presented to Kat Calvert 35 yards out a brilliant finish seeing the game won 3-1.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Incredibly tight at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with 3 points separating the top 4 sides at the end of 2019. Two of the top 4 in action this weekend 3rd and 4th placed AFC Dunstable Women Blues & Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses both looking to join the leading pair Langford Ladies and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies on 18 points. 

  Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses losing just the one game back on the opening day at home to Watton Ladies to kick off 2020. Sian Owens and Elizabeth Dowton on target for their first Watton goals of the season, it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Woburn & Wavendon hit them for 4 up the other end top scorer Giselle Randall opening and finishing the scoring with a brace scoring in the 13th and 90th minute Holly Venn with her 7th of the season scoring in the first half with Jessica Greaves scoring her first goal midway through the 2nd half. Woburn & Wavendon moving into 2nd spot in the table on goal difference.

Just the one defeat too this season for AFC Dunstable Women Blues, they began 2020 with an away fixture with Sherrardswood Ladies. A head injury to Sherrardswood goalkeeper seeing the reverse fixture abandoned earlier in the season. Dunstable are scoring alot of goals this season Bianca Vassell and Nicola Hollick ending 2019 with 20 goals each, Vassell creeping back into the lead as she fired Dunstable into a 34th minute lead. Sherrardswood coming back to level the scores within 5 minutes a superb strike from the edge of the box by Laura Cousins finding the top corner to make it 1-1 with her 8th goal of the season. 1-1 at half-time few chances in the 2nd half Sherrardswood battling hard in defence with a couple of good chances themselves saved towards the end of the match the points shared.

At the other end of the Division Two table it was a close match between bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies and Bedford Ladies Development. The visitors Bedford celebrating the first Sunday of 2020 with a win a 3 much needed points. Just their 2nd win of the season coming courtesy of a single goal scored by top scorer Alicja Olszanka her 8th goal of the season.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

An away win awarded to Herts Vipers at the weekend against Stotfold Juniors sees them return to the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three after Harvesters Ladies suffered a surprise 2nd defeat of the season away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. A great result for Bedwell Rangers to start 2020 against the side leading the table at the start of play. Bedwell rangers doing well to hold Harvesters to a goalless draw in the first half got off to a great start in the 2nd period Rachel Young with her 11th goal of the season putting the hosts 1-0 up in the 47th minute. Georgia Miller seeing the lead doubled with 15 minutes left netting her 5th goal of the season added a 2nd goal 3 minutes from time to seal a memorable 3-0 win taking Bedwell Rangers back up to 5th in the table. 

Right behind Bedwell rangers are Kempston Rovers Ladies a point back in 6th position enjoying a good 1st half of the season themselves began 2020 with a 5th win of the season at home to Flitwick Eagles Ladies. Six weeks without a game for Kempston Rovers, Hannah Meadwell opened her account for the season scoring a great headed goal in the 10th minute. Brittany Holdsworth with her 9th goal of the season getting Flitwick straight back on level terms. Kempston Rovers retaking the lead through an 8th goal of the season form Ellie Newberry-Bierton settling down Kempston Rovers went on to enjoy a strong 2nd half with Hoffi Pursey netting a hat-trick and Megan Burnapp firing in from a free-kick to see the match won 6-1.

Evergreen Eagles welcomed 2020 in with their first 3 points from open play this season. Previously awarded the 3 points against Whetstone Wanderers Ladies, Evergreen Eagles were the visitors this Sunday. Has been a tough season so far for both clubs a hat-trick from captain Samantha Takis along with a goal for Samantha Feeney helping Evergreen Eagles to a 5-1 victory enough to take them up to 8th in the Division Three table. Sophie Fisher scoring the goal for Whetstone Wanderers.

A winning start to 2020 for Evergreen Eagles Ladies (photo credit Evergreen Eagles)

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

One outstanding quarter final tie to be played from the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup postponed at the end of 2019 a tough tie for Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Garston Ladies 1st team as they travelled to play the current holders of the cup, Watford Ladies U23s. Leading the way in the FAWNL South East Reserves Division with just one defeat so far Watford proved too strong an opponent racking up a hefty scoreline. Ceri Milnes opening the scoring for the hosts in the 11th minute. Charli O’Connor and Chiara Meola with a quickfire double to make it 3-0 on 20 minutes, further goals from Echo Barrett, Anaisa Harvey and a 2nd from Meola saw Watford leading 6-0 at half-time. Ran rampant in the 2nd half adding another 10 to win the game 16-0. O’Connor and Harvey both going on to score a hat-trick. Eshe Davies scoring a brace there were goals to for Rubie Smith, Hannah Coote and Afiya Johnson along with an own goal. 

That completes the semi-final line-up to be played in a fortnights time Sunday 19th January a 1:30pm kick-off for both as follows:-

Stevenage FC Women v Watford Ladies Development

Watford Ladies U23s v Colney Heath Ladies

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 15/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th December

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

Another quarter final tie played in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup this Sunday and a huge test for young side Herts Vipers top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three as they played host to FAWNL South east Division One side Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. Herts Vipers though full of confidence a 100% winning start to the league. A competitive tussle Herts Vipers fighting all the way taking their higher league opponents all the way to extra-time. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute awarded a free-kick 35 yards out Tamsyn Sibanda lifting it in over the keeper. Nicole Jancey firing in the goals for Herts Vipers getting them back on level terms just past the half hour with her 34th goal of the season. Stevenage coming straight back to retake the lead Amy Josland firing home her first of the season to give Stevenage a 2-1 lead at the break. Further opportunities for Stevenage to extend their lead 2nd half Herts Vipers though coming back to level the scores with 15 minutes left to play Jancey with her 2nd of the game completed a hat-tick a minute later to put Herts Vipers 3-2 ahead. Stevenage fighting back to level it up at 3-3 with 6 minutes left to play Josland setting up Katie Knell to send the tie into extra-time. A mix-up at the back for Herts Vipers seeing an own goal scored, Stevenage advancing to the last four of the Challenge Cup. Watford Ladies Development also through awarded the win against Sherrardswood Ladies. Colney Heath Ladies already through just one semi-final spot to be decided between Garston Ladies 1st team and holders Watford Ladies U23s.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A limited programme to end the year across the 3 divisions in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League. Two matches in Division One on Sunday and 2019 ends on a positive note for Hitchin Belles as they secured their first point in the league on Sunday away to Houghton Athletic Ladies. Amy Jack’s 60th minute goal seeing them draw 1-1 with Houghton Athletic whose goal was scored by Bethany Phillips.

Northwood Ladies climb up a place to 3rd in the Division One table to within a point of 2nd placed St Albans Ladies as they recorded a 5th straight league win at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles at the weekend. Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick for Northwood, their was also a brace each for Emma Marshall and top scorer Emma Steele who now has 12 for the season along with a goal for Danielle Tyler her first of the season. Northwood winning the match 8-1. Tayla Murray with the goal for Letchworth.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

It was an intense battle at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three last season between, AFC Dunstable Women Blues, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and Langford Ladies last season all four going up to Division Two, the battle at the top is no less furious this time around with all 4 firmly in contention just 3 points between them. Three of the four in action this weekend in the two matches played in the league. 

  AFC Dunstable Women Blues defending a 100% winning start travelling to play Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses who themselves have lost just the once this season. Nicola Hollick with her 20th goal of the season firing Dunstable into the lead inside 7 minutes. Woburn & Wavendon back level before the opening quarter hour Giselle Randell with her 10th of the season making it 1-1. Charlie Bedford with her first goal of the season putting Woburn & Wavendon in front just 3 minutes later. Laura Taylor adding a 3rd for the hosts late in the first half to see them 3-1 up at the break. Dunstable pulling it back to 3-2 in the 63rd minute with Courtney McNamara getting her name on the scoresheet. Pushing for an equaliser Woburn & Wavendon get up the other end to score a 4th goal with 10 minutes left. Randall securing a 5-2 victory for Woburn & Wavendon with 2 minutes left. Join Dunstable on 15 points 3rd and 4th in the table. 

 18 points for 2nd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies again losing just the once this season a matching record for Langford Ladies who take over the lead on goal difference with a double figure home win against bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Two players celebrating hat-tricks for Langford, top scorer Amber Clark who now has 12 for the season and the first of the season for Chloe Scott who scored 21 herself last season. 10-0 the final score their was also a brace each for Rebecca Reeve and Leah Holmes.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies a high scoring match between the sides a good first half from Flitwick saw them leading 3-1 at the break thanks to goals from Sammy Beharry and Anna Bright plus a first of the campaign for Casey Tutt. Bedwell Rangers picking up their game in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores adding a further two goals to win 5-3 to end the year back up to 5th spot in the table.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 08/12/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th December

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

One tie played this weekend in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup quarter finals, ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies hosting Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side St Albans Ladies in the last 8 of the competition. Both sides in good form so far this season St Albans having had a run in the FA Women’s Cup earlier in the season. The lower league sides starting well top scorer Eleanor Lovelock firing St Albans into the lead inside 3 minutes. Sophie Hull adding a 2nd goal just past the quarter hour. A debatable penalty giving Colney heath a chance to pull a goal back their top scorer Samaira Khan finishing from the spot. St Albans continued to play well create chances had Colney Heath under pressure Lovelock scoring her 2nd of the match and 21st overall to put the visitors into a 3-1 lead. A big 2nd half needed from Colney Heath started well Charlene Moreton latching onto a poor goalkick to pull it back to 3-2 in the 47th minute. 10 minutes later and Colney Heath were level at 3-3 Moreton scoring again. The turn around complete midway through the 2nd half Moreton combining with Rianne Townsend-Brown to complete her hat-trick. St Albans not out of it by any means opportunities to score kept coming Amy Butler saving in goal for Colney Heath, Moreton turning in a cross to score her fourth of the match to make it 5-3 with 15 minutes left. Colney Heath through to the semi-finals of the competition.

4 goals for Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were threatening to runaway with it at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One the defending champions 6 points clear at the top of the table winning all of their 8 matches played so far. That run coming to an end at the weekend as they suffered their first defeat of the season away to Northwood Ladies. Northwood’s own form in recent weeks improving came into the match on the back of 3 straight league wins. A 1-0 win for Hemel Hempstead in the reverse fixture back in September. This weekend the game another close affair. Ella Mercer and Charlene Turturici-Clarke scoring for Hemel Hempstead, a brace from top scorer Emma Steele giving her 10 for the season plus a first of the season for Joanne Horwood seeing Northwood edge it 3-2 move up to 4th in the Division One table.

Also moving a pace up the Division One table at the weekend are Garston Ladies 1st up to 5th joining Northwood on 14 points. Were away to bottom side Hitchin Belles on Sunday. Sian Fisher on target to score her 5th goal of the season, a goal from Cassandra Chase and a first of the season for Jade Roberts securing the points with a 3-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two also this Sunday with big away wins for two of the top three to put all three level on 21 points. Herts Vipers back to the top of the pile on goal difference closing in on 70 scored so far this season as they extended their 100% winning start to 7 matches away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Kesley Millen named as the clubs new vice-captain starting the scoring with the first goal of the match in the 8th minute. Two quick fire goal from Rachel Wall and top scorer Nicole Jancey had Herts Vipers 3-0 up just 3 minutes later. The visitors with a purple patch in front of goal hammering home their advantage, Rebecca Scott adding a 4th goal in the 18th minute, Wall firing in a double a minute later to complete her hat-trick. Millen repeating the feat soon after 2 goals in the 22nd and 25th minutes to have a first half hat-trick of her own. 8 goals scored with barely half an hour played the game settled down some what. Bedwell working hard trying to play the right way Herts Vipers adding a 9th just before the break Tazmin Symonds Bishop scoring. The 2nd half seeing just the one goal added by Herts Vipers with 20 minutes left Millen netting her 4th of the game. The final score 10-1, Bedwell Rangers goal scored by Georgia Miller.

  A big away win for Biggleswade United Ladies too at the weekend in Division Three taking them up to 2nd in the table in between Herts Vipers and Harvesters Ladies. Were taking on Stotfold Juniors Ladies. Robyn Gibbons putting Biggleswade into the lead in the 17th minute. Kayleigh Saunders putting Biggleswade 2-0 up 10 minutes later. Zoe Molloy adding a 3rd goal as the visitors finished the first period strongly top scorer Leeanne Davison getting her 18th goal of the season with Tashai Simms scoring on the stroke of half-time to see Biggleswade 5-0 up. More goal coming 2nd half Saunders scoring her 2nd of the game and 14th overall 5 minutes after the restart. Molloy and Simms both adding another goal with Annabelle Gee scoring her first Biggleswade goal on the 80th minute to see the match won 9-0.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

This weekend also saw the beginning of The Chris Renshaw Cup, three tie played on Sunday in the 1st Round of the competition. Evergreen Ladies and Sherrardswood Ladies were meeting for the 3rd successive match. The previous two encounters full of drama and goals, a 7-4 extra-time win in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for Sherrardswood in November the points shared in a 3-3 draw in Division Two now meeting for a 3rd time in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Plenty of goals in this one two although a very contrasting scoreline. Sherrardswood starting well Laura Cousins with the opening goal inside 10 minutes. Manjinder Atwal then rattling in an 11 minute hat-trick, Abby Cardell also on the scoresheet to see Sherrardswood 5-0 with just 22 minutes gone. Cousins scoring her 2nd of the game late in the first half to see the visitors 6-0 at half-time. Sherrardswood continuing in the same vain in the 2nd half Francesca Novelli scoring a brace to put them 8-0 before an hours play. Leane Pickett with her first of the season pulling one back for Evergreen as good as it would get Cousins going onto complete her hat-trick. The game entering the final 10 minutes Lola Steiner making just her 2nd appearance for Sherrardswood scored her first goal for the club the final score 11-1 with Atwal adding her 4th of the match in the final 5 minutes.

Harvester Ladies going into the weekend top of Beds & Herts Division Three were at home to Division One side Letchworth Garden City Eagles in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. A high scoring encounter that saw the pair share 9 goals. Natasha Reynolds, Kim Franklin and  Samantha Coughlan with their first goals of the season for Letchworth plus one for Katie Smith seeing them put for past their opponents, Harvesters though through to the next round of the competition scoring one more to win it 5-4.

A good result in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup for Division Three side Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves as they beat Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses doing well this season in Division Two. Despite a good start to the game from Woburn & Wavendon, it was Hitchin who opened the scoring Ellen Beary making her first start for the club putting a looping shot into the top corner in the 9th minute. Chances followed for both sides Hitchin holding onto their 1-0 advantage at half-time. Top scorer April Spang latching onto a scuffed goalkick on the hour sending the ball home to put Hitchin 2-0 ahead. The lead made more secure in the final 20 minutes Spang with her 15th of the season putting Hitchin 3 goals up. A late penalty for Woburn & Wavendon saw Giselle Randall pull a goal back Hitchin though safely through to the next round winning 3-1. Also through to the next round of The Chris Renshaw Cup are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies awarded the home win against Kempston Rovers Ladies.

 

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 24/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 24th November

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

One quarter final outstanding in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup played this weekend, having been postponed last Sunday, Langford Ladies flying high in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two hosting ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Dunstable Women. Three leagues between the sides Dunstable’s new look side struggling in the league as they look to rebuild having lost several players over the summer. A much welcome victory in the county cup competition that will do wonders for the confidence. Jodi McClelland getting a brace celebrating her first goals for the club there were goals to for Hannah Ring and Louise McCay in a 4-1 win. Amber Clark with the goal for Langford. Dunstable joining, Luton Town Ladies, Houghton Athletic Ladies and Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses in the last four.

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

  Also postponed from last weekend was the 2nd Round Hertfordshire Women Challenge Cup tie between Letchworth Garden City Eagles and Herts Vipers. Letchworth agreeing to switch venues as their pitch remained waterlogged. Playing in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One the highest league placed side Herts Vipers flying high at the top of Division Three ha faced this season. Herts Vipers getting off to a flying start taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes Selin Buyukgiray with her 8th of the season finding the top corner. Letchworth coming back quickly to equalise winning a penalty Katie Smith sending the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1. Herts Vipers on the attack getting a penalty of their own 7 minutes later Buyukgiray netting her 2nd of the game had a hat-trick with a 3rd scored midway through the 1st half. Top scorer Nicole Jancey then getting in on the scoring act striking to make it 4-1 just past the half hour. Buyukgiray latching onto a through ball to collect her 4th of the game and 12th overall. A great first half for Buyukgiray ending on a sour note an altercation with a Letchworth player seeing her sent off. Herts Vipers down to 10 leading 5-1 at half-time. Despite their disadvantage Herts Vipers coped well keeping Letchworth out at one end whilst finding the back of the net for a further 3 goals, Jancey adding two more to get her hat-trick to take her past 30 for the season, Rachel Wall with the other goal. Herts Vipers into the quarter finals of the competition where they will face their toughest test yet a home tie against FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women the game taking place on Sun 15th December.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies remain well clear at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One as they continued their 100% winning start at home this Sunday in a top of the table clash hosting 2nd placed Hitchin Town Ladies. A 3-1 win to Hemel Hempstead in the finish doesn’t reflect the game as the hosts were pushed all the way by Hitchin the pair drawing right up till the 85th minute Hemel Hempstead with 2 late goals to clinch victory. It was Hitchin in fact who made the better start to the game taking the lead in the 11th minute Holly Darling shooting from the edge of the 18 yard box to make it 1-0. Hemel Hempstead coming back well looking for an equaliser hitting the bar, forcing the keeper into a save. A corner with 4 minutes played put into the mix in front of goal seeing the hosts score to make it 1-1 Leah Haley with her first goal of the season. Chances for both sides 2nd half the ball picked up in midfield carried forwards by Hemel Hempstead into the area and struck low off the post and in to give them the lead a penalty awarded in the 90th minute scored to see Hemel Hempstead win a cracking match 3-1, Charlene Turturici-Clarke and Jessica Green with the goals.

St Albans Ladies climb back up to 2nd spot in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One table winning away to 5th placed Garston Ladies 1st at the weekend. St Albans with a narrow 1 nil lead at the break a different story in the 2nd period as they ran riot in front of goal to score a further 7 to win the match 8-1 and make it 5 wins from 6 played so far. The gap to Hemel Hempstead 9 points St Albans with 2 games in hand. Danniella Roberts with the 2nd half goal for Garston. 

 4th placed Hartham United Ladies were hosting Houghton Athletic Ladies this Sunday in the league. The visitors opening the scoring the ball put over the top dinked over the advancing keeper to make it 1-0. Hartham coming back to equalise awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box fired in by Ellie Burke. Hartham going on to take the lead themselves Janiece Allen played in behind the defence to fire home her 14th goal of the season. The points shared in the finish Houghton coming back to level their initial shot saved the rebound sent over the line. 2-2 the final score Shakeela Hussain and Bethany Phillips with the goals for Houghton.

Northwood Ladies final back in league action this Sunday six weeks since their last league victory cup games and postponements getting in the way. Were at home played Royston Town Ladies Development. A brace from Emma Steele taking her to 6 for the season and one for Scarlett Keightley helping Northwood to a 3-1 victory to make it 7 points from their last 3 games up to 5th in the table with games in hand on everybody above. Rebecca Lenton scoring for Royston.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

 Two games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two this weekend, featuring the top two both away from home as they continued their 100% winning starts, AFC Dunstable Women Blues and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies winning promotion last season doing well in Division Two. Kempston Town & Bedford 3 points clear at the top making it 6 wins from 6 away to Evergreen Ladies this Sunday. A goal in each half securing the 3 points Evergreen with a strong performance to Limit Kempston Town & Bedford goals from Rachel Mumford and Helen Spalding on her debut securing the 2 points.

AFC Dunstable Women Blues 2nd make it 5 wins from 5 now are scoring plenty of goals to 54 now from those 5 matches with just 4 conceded well out in front on goal difference were away to Watton Ladies this weekend in Division Two. Gemma Williams putting Dunstable into the lead inside 7 minutes, Emily Mitchell making it 2-0 2 minutes later. Nicola Hollick giving top scorer Bianca Vassell a run for her money scoring Dunstable’s 3rd with barely 20 minutes gone. A quick fire brace from Mitchell seeing her complete her hat-trick has 14 goals herself so far this campaign. Hollick with her 2nd of the match seeing Dunstable comfortably leading 6-0 at the break. More of the same 2nd half Vassell getting in amongst the goals making it 7-0 early on. Hollick completing her hat-trick joining Vassell on 19 goals for the season. Williams netting her 2nd of the game Vassell nudging ahead of Hollick to bring up double figures, Courtney McNamara with the final goal seeing Dunstable win 11-0.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two matches played too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday, Harvesters Ladies losing for the first time this season last time out returned to winning ways this weekend to rejoin leaders Harts Vipers on 18 points at the top of the table. Harvesters at home to Evergreen Eagles held at 0-0 for almost half an hour before Eve Shaw struck to fire in the opening goal. Harvesters finishing the first half strong, Shaw adding a 2nd goal, with Rachel King making it 3-0 with her 8th of the season. Eleanor Keating with a goal deep into injury time seeing the lead at 4-0. Rachel Dodd on target to make it 5-0 with almost an hour played. Shaw getting her 3rd to complete her hat-trick and put her top of the goal scoring charts with 9 for the season. Isobel Hughes with a goal 6 minutes from time wrapping up a 7-0 win.

 Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves the side to defeat Harvesters Ladies last weekend continue their fine recent form making it 3 wins on the bounce to climb up the Division Three table into 3rd spot just a point behind the leading pair. At home taking on Flitwick Eagles Ladies top scorer April Spang netting her 11th of the season putting Hitchin into a 29th minute lead. Flitwick doing well coming back to level the scores just before half-time a lobbed goal making it 1-1. The visitors starting the 2nd half well taking the lead. 2-1 down Hitchin were spurred into life Spang pulling it back to 2-2 in the 65th minute. The winning goal coming on the 82nd minute Hitchin attacking, Spang onto a ball over the top to fire home and complete her hat-trick winning the match for Hitchin.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 17/11/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th November

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

 County Cup weekend across both counties this weekend, in Bedfordshire the competition reaching the quarter final stage. 3 of the 4 ties played this Sunday whilst Langford Ladies match at home to ERWFL side AFC Dunstable Women postponed the pair will try again this coming Sunday. 

 Of the ties played the big guns had been drawn together in the quarter finals, the finalists for the past two season’s locking horns, Bedford Ladies winning the competition with back to back victories over Luton Town Ladies. Now playing in the ERWFL Premier Division together Luton were hosting Bedford this Sunday. A goalless opening half hour it was Luton who would take the lead Funmi Bababola on target to score her 8th goal of the season making it 1-0. Rebecca Kane rounding the keeper on the stroke of half time putting Luton into a 2-0 lead at the break. The hosts extending their lead straight from the restart 2nd half Jess McKay firing home to make it 3-0, Luton taking control of the match going further ahead with Zara Carroll scoring from distance an own goal seeing Luton 5-0 up with an hour played. McKay with her 2nd of the match and 11th overall this season sending Luton into a 6 goal lead with 10 minutes left. Bedford scoring a consolation goal with 2 minutes left, Luton straight back up the other end to score a 7th goal awarded a penalty Erica Bryon converting from the spot the game won 7-1.

 A high scoring match in the quarter finals too between AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies leading Beds & Herts Division Two at home to fellow league side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses both in great form coming into the tie, Kempston Town & Bedford College with a 100% winning start to the league, finding the back of the net for 3 goals. Woburn & Wavendon on a good run too winning 3 successive league matches advancing through to the last 4 of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup smashing 5 past their opponents up the other end. 

In the other quarter final tie played in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup this weekend it went all the way to a penalty shootout between Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies at home to GRWFL Division One side, Luton Town Ladies Reserves. Houghton Athletic leading the game 1-0 at half-time. Would score another in the 2nd period with Ciara Craig and Bethany Phillips scoring on her debut getting the goals. Luton coming back though scoring twice in the 2nd half to draw the game 2-2 with Jodie Brooks and Hannah Major scoring to send the tie to a penalty shootout. Houghton Athletic coming out on top to take it 4-3 to advance to the semi-finals.

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

   The Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup reaching the 2nd Round 5 ties played this weekend with Letchworth Garden City Eagles home match against Herts Vipers called off the pair to try again this coming Sunday. Last season’s Challenge Cup winners and runners-up both progressing awarded home wins, Watford Ladies U23s and Stevenage FC Women.

  Stevenage FC Women’s Development side were at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies in the 2nd Round of the Challenge Cup this weekend. Samaira Khan amongst the goals for Colney Heath since joining them from Dunstable this season her 15th strike of the season in the 35th minute the difference between the sides at half-time. Khan on target for her 2nd of the match to double Colney Heath’s advantage midway through the 2nd period, Olivia Mari with her first goal for the club making the result save with 6 minutes left despite Emily Schofield netting a minute later to pull a goal back for Stevenage.

  Watford Ladies Development also progressing to the quarter finals of the Challenge Cup with a comfortable win away to ERWFL Division One side Wodson Park Ladies. Charlotte Bailey putting the visitors into a 10th minute lead, Ciara Purdue netting a brace along with a goal for Katie Riddington seeing Watford hold a 4-0 lead at the break. Rebecca Lovelace on the hour to make it 5-0 with Sasha Williams on the scoresheet with 17 minute left to see the tie won 6-0.

 An eventful encounter elsewhere in the Challenge Cup 2nd Round an all Beds & Herts Division Two tie Sherrardswood Ladies at home to Evergreen Ladies. The visitors with just the 10 players available few chances early on. Sherrardswood taking the lead on the half hour Julie Briars from a corner. Laurie Marris making her 100th appearance for the club doubling the score late in the 1st half to see Sherrardswood leading 2-0 at half-time. Evergreen with a great start to the 2nd half, pulling a goal back Louise Popkin scoring straight from a corner then going on to equalise and take a 3-2 lead with two strikes from outside the box captain Rebecca Freeman with both goals. Some aggressive play throughout just before the final whistle Evergreen having a Gemma Arnett sent off and their captain sin binned, Sherrardswood popping up with an 88th minute equaliser with Charley Lebetkin getting her first goal in the 88th minute to send the game into extra-time. Evergreen going down to 8 players with Freeman red carded from the sin bin. Laura Cousins also making her 100th appearance for Sherrardswood scoring in the first half of extra-time to put the host side 4-3 up. Evergreen battling coming back to level it at 4-4 with Popkin getting her 2nd of the match. Sherrardswood with the number advantage quickly retaking the lead Cousins with a quick fire brace to make it an extra-time hat-trick, Lebetkin with her 2nd sealing an eventful 7-4 win.

Laurie Marris & Laura Cousins both made their 100th appearance for Sherrardswood Ladies this Sunday (photo credit Sherrardswood Ladies)

  Two all Beds & Herts Division One ties played in the 2nd Round of the Challenge Cup this Sunday, good starts to the season for both Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies leading the table with a 100% winning start and St Albans Ladies. Met just a fortnight ago in the league Hemel Hempstead winning 3-1 at St Albans. The host side this time around Cally Salter putting St Albans into the lead midway through the 2nd half, with her 9th goal of the season. Hemel Hempstead equalising on the stroke of half-time Ella Mercer scoring the goal her 8th of the campaign. The hosts getting themselves in front midway through the 2nd period Natasha McConville netting her 9th goal of the season. Trailing 2-1 with the game entering the final 15 minutes St Albans battled back to level the scores Georga Knight making it 2-2. The winning goal coming 3 minutes from time, Eleanor Lovelock with her 12th strike of the season winning it for St Albans.

 A high scoring 2nd Round tie played between Garston Ladies 1st and Hartham United Ladies in the Challenge Cup at the weekend 5th and 4th in the league respectfully. Garston taking a 2-0 lead before conceding a penalty put away by Ellie Burke. A narrow lead to Garston at half-time. Janiece Allen in behind for Hartham to shoot the ball parried by the keeper straight to Sophie Mandel to sent in to level the scores. Garston in behind retaking the lead a long range clearance striking the bar coming down to be into the path of a Garston attacker to see them go 4-2 up a 5th goal making the tie save late in the game, Hartham awarded a second penalty Mandel scoring a consolation as Garston progress with a 5-3 win, 5 different goalscorers, two with their first of the season, Daniella Roberts an Megan Allaway, with Holly Jury, Sian Fisken and Danielle McMullen all celebrating a goal.

  The draw already made for the quarter finals the details as follows games to be played Sun 8th & 15th December:-

  Watford Ladies Development v Sherrardswood Ladies (15th)

Colney Heath Ladies v St Albans Ladies (8th)

Watford Ladies U23s v Garston Ladies 1st (15th)

Letchworth Garden City Eagles or Herts Vipers v Stevenage FC Women (15th)

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

One match taking place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two this weekend and it was a big home win for AFC Dunstable Women Blues as they move up to 2nd in the table over Langford Ladies on goal difference keeping up their 100% winning start to the season. Were taking on Bedford Ladies Development this Sunday. Nicola Hollick putting Dunstable into an early lead inside 3 minutes the tone set early Hollick adding a 2nd goal 10 minutes later. Emily Mitchell with her 10th goal of the season making it 3-0 to Dunstable with 20 minutes gone. Nicole Cameron quickly making it 4-0. A devastating burst following with 3 goals in 3 minutes, Hollick completing her hat-trick soon adding a 4th with Holly Wilks making it 7-0. Cameron with her 2nd of the match sending Dunstable into an 8-0 lead at half-time. Bianca Vassell getting amongst the goal soon after the restart to put Dunstable 9 up. A quick fire Double from Courtney McNamara and Mitchell following Vassell netting her 2nd and 18th goal overall with 30 minutes left. Hollick with her 5th of the match then Gemma Williams. Bedford getting a late consolation goal Hollick finishing where she started with the final goal of the game her 16th overall a double hat-trick the final score 15-1.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

   Biggleswade United Ladies move up to 2nd in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three winning well at home on Sunday moving ahead of Harvesters Ladies on goal difference as they lost their first game of the season after making a 100% winning start away to Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves.

  Biggleswade were hosting Bedwell Rangers Ladies on Sunday Angelica Farchechi firing them into the lead on 7 minutes. Robyn Gibbons with her first goal of the season doubling the hosts lead midway through the 1st half. Top scorer Leeanne Davison wading in with a goal her 16th of the season making it 3-0 with Karen Clarke celebrating her first goal to see Biggleswade leading 4-0 at the break. Joanne Brown wit her first goal for Bedwell pulling a goal back for the visitors early in the 2nd half. Biggleswade quickly responding t restore their 4 goal lead Jodie Molloy on target for her first goal of the season. Tashai Simms and Kayleigh Saunders netting her 11th of the season securing a 7-1 win.

  Harvester Ladies losing for the first time this season in the league new to Division Three winning their opening 5 matches were away to Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves this Sunday. Hitchin starting well Harvesters though taking the lead with their first attack Rachel King putting the ball over the line for her 7th goal of the season on 12 minutes. Hitchin coming back to level 10 minutes later, April Spang putting pressure on the defence forcing an error and capitalising to score her 9th goal of the season. Spang then firing Hitchin into the lead in the 35th minute. A narrow lead for Hitchin at half-time. A stoppage in play soon after a collision between two Harvesters players resulting in 1 sustaining two fractures of the jaw. Surgery required hope all went well and wishing the player involved all the best for a full and speedy recovery. Play resuming Hitchin getting the cushion of a 2 goal lead with 20 minutes left to play Ellie Colyer picking the ball up in midfield driving forwards and shooting from outside the box to score her first goal for the club. Hitchin winning the match 3-1 the 3 points putting them up to 4th in the table.

 Flitwick Eagles Ladies at home this Sunday in Division Three taking on Evergreen Eagles both sides with just on win so far this season. Sammy Rhiann Beharry putting Flitwick into the lead inside a minute. Evergreen Eagles coming back to level the scores with 20 minutes gone, Samantha Feeney with her first goal of the season to equalise. Flitwick back in front just 5 minutes later Alexandra McKeegan with her first goal to make it 2-1 in the 25th minute the difference between the sides at half-time. Samantha Takis with her first of the season seeing Evergreen Eagles come back to level for the 2nd time in the match midway through the 2nd period. Beharry scoring in the opening minute striking again in the final minute to win the game for Flitwick 3-2.

 The bottom pair meeting in Division Three this weekend both looking for their first point of the season a tough start for both Buntingford Town Ladies at home to newcomers Whetstone Wanderers Ladies. Another close encounter the result edged by a single goal. Buntingford finding the back of the Whetstone Wanderers net for 2 goals, Whetstone clinching their first win of the season taking it 3-2 thanks to goal from Carly Gilbey and a brace for Hailey Peters.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 20/10/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th October

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

County Cup action for the majority across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this weekend. We’ll begin with the Bedfordshire Women’s competition reaching the 2nd Round stage 3 ties scheduled to see who would be joining the seeded teams in the quarter finals. In the end one game played, Langford Ladies leading Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two receiving a home win. The game between Bedford Ladies Development & Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses listed as cancelled at the moment. That left one game to be played and a tasty looking contested too between AFC Dunstable Women Blues & AFC  Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. Both promoted to Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two this season where both with fancy their chances of making it a 2nd successive promotion. Meeting in the County Cup this weekend Dunstable at home fell behind in the 15th minute, hit back straight away to level the scores top scorer Bianca Vassell making it 1-1. Kempston retaking the lead in the 23rd minute quickly added a 3rd goal. Vassell with her 14th goal of the season pulling it back to 3-2 in the final minute of the first half. Kempston’s turn for an immediate reply scoring a 4th goal to lead 4-2 at half-time. A the goals reserved for the 1st half neither side finding the back of their opponents net for a goal 2nd half Kempston booking their spot in the quarter finals. Bex Cray scoring a brace with goals too for Charlie Mullins and Hannah Humphries scoring her first goal of the season.

The quarter finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup due to be played on Sunday 17th November with a 2pm KO listed below:-

  Houghton Athletic Ladies v Luton Town Ladies Reserves

AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies v Bedford Ladies Development or Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses

Luton Town Ladies v Bedford Ladies

Langford Ladies v AFC Dunstable Women

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

A busy Sunday for the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup with 11 ties scheduled to be played in the 1st Round of the competition. In the end 5 of these saw one side progress without kicking a ball. Wodson Park Ladies, Herts Vipers Women, Garston Ladies Vintage Purples, Letchworth Garden City Eagles & Garston Ladies 1st all going through to the 2nd Round. Plenty of goals scored in the 6 remaining ties with some big wins for the higher league placed sides.

 The biggest league gap saw Colney Heath Ladies 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division at home to Harvesters Ladies currently 2nd in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three. Colney Heath finding their form in recent weeks too. Striker Rianne Townsend-Brown doubling her goal tally for the season top scoring in the match with 4 goals. Captain Sheree Oliver doing the same scoring a hat-trick. Top scorer Samaira Khan with a goal to take her into double figures their were goals too for Adrienne Milton & Charlene Moreton with Annie Hickey getting her first goal of the season and full back Eustacia Randles scoring for the 2nd successive game. Colney Heath running out 12-1 winners, Eleanor Keating with the goal for Harvesters.

4 goals in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for Colney Heath Ladies, Rianne Townsend-Brown

A huge win in the Challenge Cup to away for Stevenage FC Women Development against Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies. Emily Schofield top scoring in the game netting 5 goals for Stevenage. Hannah Marshall one behind celebrating 4 goals. A brace each for Sofia Carpenter, Katherine Taylor and Sherrie Evans. Melody Jones, Danielle Ranson and Amy Notschild with her first goal of the season seeing Stevenage run out 18-0 winners.

Beds & Herts Division One side were hosting Watford Ladies Development U19s in the 1st Round of the competition. Watford’s Development side former Challenge Cup winners their young side starting strong racing into a 3-0 lead within the opening 17 minutes. Rebecca Day pulling a goal back for Hitchin Town on the half hour the visitors 3-1 up at the break going on to score a 4th goal in the 2nd period to advance in the cup.

An all Beds & Herts Division One clash saw Hitchin Belles taking on Hartham United Ladies in the 1st Round of the Challenge Cup. Goals from Ellie Burke and Janiece Allen securing a 2-0 lead for Hartham United at half-time. The visitors getting themselves into a 3-0 lead with Georgia Quinton scoring from a 35 yard free-kick. Hitchin Belles creating chances unlucky not to score a goal seeing the woodwork struck twice. Hartham United finding a 4th goal with Sophie Mandel scoring from a corner to see them safely through to the 2nd Round.

Evergreen Ladies without a point on the board at the start of the season in Beds & Herts Division Two were at home to fellow league side Watton Ladies in the 1st Round of the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup this weekend. A close match between the sides it was Evergreen who were at last celebrating a win to progress in the competition. Goals from Rebecca Freeman and Gemma Arnett enough to secure the hosts a 2-1 victory. Emma Carter on the scoresheet for Watton.

Sherrardswood Ladies playing in Beds & Herts Division Two were at home to Division Three side Bedwell Rangers Ladies in the Challenge Cup 1st Round. Bedwell Rangers finding a bit of form at the start of the season Sherrardswood taking the lead on the 20th minute from a corner Julie Briars heading in her first goal of the season. A narrow lead at half-time the hosts going 2-0 up 10 minutes into the 2nd period Laurie Marris often amongst the goals for Sherrardswood getting off the mark with her first goal of the season from another corner. Bedwell Rangers captain Georgia Miller pulling it back to 2-1. A quick fire brace from Manjinder Atwal put Sherrardswood 4-1 up a late goal from Kally-Ann Westgarth on her first start for the club sealing a 5-1 victory.

The draw for the 2nd Round of the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup listed below the ties to be played Sunday 17th November with a 2pm KO:-

Wodson Park Ladies v Watford Ladies Development

Stevenage FC Women v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

Letchworth Garden City Eagles v Herts Vipers Women

Stevenage FC Women Development v Colney Heath Ladies

Watford Ladies U23s v Garston Ladies Vintage Purples

Sherrardswood Ladies v Evergreen Ladies

Garston Ladies 1st v Hartham United Ladies

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies v St Albans Ladies

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

One match played in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League this Sunday in Division Three. Kempston Rovers Ladies continuing their excellent start to the season muscling their way in between the new kids on the block leading the table Herts Vipers & Harvesters Ladies the 3 sides all on 12 points. Kempston Rovers at home taking on Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves this Sunday. The hosts winning their 4th game of the season by 3 goals to 1. Ellie Newberry-Bierton scoring her 7th goal of the season for Kempston Rovers, Millie Scott also getting a goal along with captain Lucy Harper scoring her first goal of the season. April Spang with the late strike for Hitchin Town.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 17/03/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th March

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup

Once again saving the biggest of the Round-Up’s till last it was a busy weekend with two County Cup Finals taking place as well as a host of county league matches. Sunday beginning with an 11am kick-off at The County Ground Letchworth for the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final. An early start for Women’s Football East too travelling to watch the game. Stevenage Ladies into a fifth successive final have won 3 out of the last 4 including back to back wins, were looking for a 3rd win as they looked t retain the trophy against Watford Ladies U23s.

 The County Ground with a new 3G playing surface as well as redevelopments to the clubhouse. Bright sunshine Watford’s young side starting brightly pressing the ball defender Sydney Hinchcliffe firing them into the lead the ball cleared off the line from a corner struck back in over the line. Stevenage responded well Watford coping doubling their lead late in the first half Andie Dickens firing a shot in from the top of the area.

Stevenage pushed for a reply but it wouldn’t come Watford willing on the counter getting a corner Anaisa Harvey rising highest inside the six yard box to score their 3rd goal. Counter attacking play bringing a 4th goal Eshe Johnson running clear with a composed finish. Watford keeping a clean sheet up the other end celebrating at the final whistle as they win the Cup for the 1st time. Click on the link to read the full match report http://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-369/ 

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

In neighbouring Bedfordshire on Sunday afternoon their was also Women’s County Cup Final action, with Luton Town Ladies meeting Bedford Ladies at Ampthill Town FC. Luton Town Ladies dominant in recent seasons that run ended by Bedford Ladies last season. The sides meeting again this season Bedford Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division looking for back to back successes. Luton Town Ladies having a tough season battling at the bottom of FAWNL South East Division One.

Few chances in the game early on the game livening up with 28 minutes gone Bedford striking the post, Eden Kibron firing in from close range moments later to put Bedford into the lead. Luton pressing for an equaliser it wouldn’t come shots saved Bedford Ladies with the narrow victory winning the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup for the 2nd successive season. Congratulations.

Bedford Ladies, 2018/19 Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup Winners

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The title race remains as strong as ever in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with the top two gaining 3 more points along with Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies who climb up to 3rd with games in hand.

  Northwood Ladies top of the table with a good away win against St Albans Ladies last time out were on the road again this weekend taking on Sharnbrook WFC. Emma Steele continuing her great form in front of goal for Northwood scoring a hat-trick on Sunday to take her account to 19 for the season. Goals too for Leanne Jones, Danielle Tyler and Zamina Rahemtulla in a 6-1 victory. Millie Scott with the goal for Sharnbrook.

  2nd placed St Albans Ladies awarded the 3 points over Houghton Athletic Ladies remain a point behind Northwood.

 Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies move into 3rd position 3 points behind the leaders with 3 games in hand. A strong position they were at home on Sunday in Division One taking on Sherrardswood Ladies. A brace from Charlotte Rose along with goals from Charlene Turturici-Clarke and a 1st of the campaign for Amy Bentall securing a 4-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

 A great weekend for Hitchin Belles in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two as they win at home and see their rivals drop points to open up a 5 point lead at the top of the table. A tough game for Hitchin Bells on Sunday at home against 4th placed Royston Town Ladies Development a close run reslut Kierra Gabriel and Hannah Tofts scoring for the visitors. Hitchin Belles with a potent attack this season 4 players into double figures 3 of them were on target with a goal each to see the game won 3-2 with, Keira How, Amy Jack and Charlotte Peters all celebrating.

  Hitchin Town Ladies in 2nd spot going into Sunday’s match were away to 5th placed Evergreen Ladies, the hosts scoring through Natalie Maher just past the half hour. That goal proving to be the winner as Evergreen battled to keep Hitchin Town from finding a reply.

   That result coupled with a win on the road Letchworth Garden City Eagles a 4th straight win with one result a walk over sees them up into 2nd place themselves in Division Two. Were taking in Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Tayla Murray, Katie Smith and a 1st of the season for Simone Leah Straughn sealing a 3-0 win for the visitors. Who like Hitchin Town Ladies have a game in hand on Hitchin Belles.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

A big game at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday with the top two going head to head with just a point between them. AFC Dunstable Ladies Development with the narrow advantage hosting 2nd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Dunstable unbeaten dropping just 2 points so far and those back on the opening day, Woburn & Wavendon losing just the once that early in the season in the reverse fixture with Dunstable. Giselle Randell firing Woburn & Wavendon into a 20th minute lead. The visitors holding the narrow advantage at half-time, Dunstable getting back on level terms on the hour through Nicola Hollick’s 4th goal of the season. The scores level with less than 15 minutes left Bianca Vassell, Dunstable’s top scorer scored to put the hosts 2-1 up with her 30th goal of the season. The three points guaranteed in the final minute with Hollick on target for her 2nd of the game to see Dunstable go 4 points clear at the top winning 3-1. 

One goal in it between Kempston Rovers Ladies and Langford Ladies on Sunday. Langford’s Amber Clark claiming her 20th goal of the season securing the 3 points to take Langford back into 3rd place in the Division Three table.

  A high scoring draw seeing the points shared on Sunday in Division Three between Stotfold Juniors Ladies & AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. Molly Norman making her 1st start for Stotfold Juniors scoring a hat-trick. Holly Konopka also on the score sheet with a goal. 4 for Stotfold Juniors. 4 too for the visitors with Kayleigh Humphries making her 1st league start scoring a hat-trick along with an 18th goal of the season for top scorers Chloe Urbanowicz.

At last a first league win of the season for Bedwell Rangers Ladies, their first 3 points of the season coming away from home against 2nd bottom Buntingford Town Ladies. Two players completing hat-tricks in the match Jessica Sullivan with 3 more has 12 now for the season. Leah Tomlin netting 3 goals too one from the penalty spot. Rachel Young with a brace too for Bedwell with Alicia Fieldsend also scoring in a 9-0 with that takes Bedwell off the bottom.

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 17th March

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final

Stevenage Ladies v Watford Ladies U23s

It’s that time of the season again, the first final, a trip down to Letchworth this morning, The County Ground once again hosting the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup with holders Stevenage Ladies taking on Watford Ladies U23s.

FAWNL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies looking to retain the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for a 3rd successive season. Have dominated the competition in recent seasons with this being a fifth successive final appearance, winning 3 of the previous 4 finals. Strong in their defence of the County Cup an established side now in the FAWNL. Have had their fair share of injuries, including captain Paige Logie out with a season ending ACL injury. 

Watford Ladies U23s entering the competition for the first time this season. Watford themselves dominating the County Cup in its early years 5 times winners in 2005,2006,2007, 2008, 2010, reached all but one final between 2005 & 2013. Not entering the competition during their FAWSL years a Watford Ladies Development side won the competition 3 seasons ago beating Stevenage prior to their back to back successes. Watford Ladies U23s play in the FAWNL Reserves South/South East Division. Have goal scorers throughout their squad with several players getting their chance with the 1st team.

  Road to the Final

  A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Both were at home in the 2nd Round both progressing with ease as they racked up double figure wins. Stevenage Ladies were playing Beds & Herts Division Two side, Hitchin Belles. A overwhelming win with the hosts scoring 16 goals on their way to the quarter finals. Watford Ladies U23s were at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves side, 8 different goalscorers, with Jessica Biggerstaff scoring a hat-trick as Watford advanced with a 12-1 victory.

   Home draws for both sides once more in the quarter finals, Stevenage Ladies up against Royston Town Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side County Cup finalists in the 2016/17 season. Stevenage coming out on top recording a good win over Royston winning 7-2 to reach the last 4. Watford were taking on another ERWFL Premier Division side, Colney Heath Ladies in the quarter finals a 5-0 win seeing them book their place in the semi-finals of the competition.

 Stevenage Ladies were away for the 1st time in the County Cup drawn away to ERWFL Division One side, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. A repeat of last season’s final Stevenage retaining the trophy with a comfortable win then 8-0 to lift the trophy. Once again the FAWNL side were dominant as they reached their (insert) final with a 7-0 win. Watford again at home as they took on Beds & Herts Division One side Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies in the semi-finals, a 3-0 lead at half-time went on to win the game 8-0 with six different names on the scoresheet.

The County Ground in Letchworth the venue for today’s final home of Hertfordshire FA, the stadium recently undergoing some redevelopment including a new 3G playing surface replacing the grass pitch, barriers and surround upgraded. A redeveloped clubhouse area too, a new cafe replacing the old bar with function room beyond. Hot and cold drinks available. An early kick-off, breakfast too a burger van selling hot food in it’s usual berth. Storm Hannah the latest to blow through the UK bringing over night wind and rain. A 3G surface meaning a call off unlikely cool early on and overcast dark clouds threatening the rain would hold off the sun breaking through.

The new playing surface at The County Ground looking pristine

 Stevenage Ladies starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Hayley Wood-Thompson, Poppy Bennett, Dominique Godbeer, Charlotte Ryan, Shona Chitate, Amy Josland, Ashleigh Deacon, Ellie Searle, Amy Makewell (C) & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Kristi Burling, Amy Runicman, Melody Jones, Cara Breckenridge & Erin Pope.

 Watford Ladies U23s starting XI – Amy Martin, Ayifa Johnson, Holly Holt, Danielle Maloney, Sydney Hinchcliffe, Katie Akerman, Rebecca McShane (C), Andie Dickens, Linda Afuakwah, Eshe Johnson & Anaisa Harvey. Subs – Jennifer Hughes, Jessica Biggerstaff, Hannah Coote, Holly Greenwood & Alketa Rragami.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Stevenage to get the final underway kicking off first half wearing white shirts with light red vertical stripes, red shirts and socks with Watford lined up opposite wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Watford press early Andie Dickens on the left win tackling winning possession getting in behind to cross Charlotte Ryan clearing the ball inside her area for Stevenage. 

 Nicole Emmings receiving the ball in attack for Stevenage turns to her left  sending the ball on down the line with Ellie Searle looking to break in behind, Afiya Johnson getting back well to make the tackle. Stevenage are awarded an early free-kick 35 yards out central Shona Chitate to take the ball put into the area for runners to attack, Watford goalkeeper Amy Martin taking it on the bounce. Watford press the ball high up the pitch, Stevenage rushed into their passes Poppy Bennett’s forwards ball up to Emmings, Sydney Hinchcliffe doing well up against her for Watford preventing the attacker getting in on goal. 

  Dickens getting forwards left has support from Eshe Johnson in attack getting the return ball as she breaks into the box her early shot races wide past the far post. A corner for Watford right side the ball delivered into the near post defended the clearance falling to Watford’s Anaisa Harvey outside the area strikes the ball back in towards goal is safely held by Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis 

Stevenage defender, Poppy Bennett getting to the ball ahead of Watford’s Linda Afuakwah

  A bright start from Watford, lively early on closing Stevenage down quick to mount attacks, Emmings and captain Amy Makewell looking to move around find space up top for Stevenage to play them in. Linda Afuakwah with the ball at her feet for Watford on the right drives down the line cutting inside get’s past one defender the ball coming to Eshe Johnson near post she blasts wide from six yards out. A quick turn around from Stevenage the ball from Amy Josland through the middle helped on to Emmings peeling away into a gap on the left runs on into the area the shot on Emmings instead puts it in towards the penalty spot, her cross intercepted as Watford get back the ball sent clear.

  Emmings is through clear in behind moment later central 30 yards out gives chase to the ball, Martin racing out of her area gets there first however to kick the ball away before the striker can capitalise. Watford get on down the left the cross in headed behind for a corner kick, the delivery near post attacked ends up behind for a 2nd corner, this one again from the left higher Vandersluis getting up to glove the ball on wide and behind for a 3rd corner on the right this time.

 GOAL! Watford open the scoring from the corner put in towards the near post area 8 yards out the ball is turned back in towards goal, Stevenage doing well initially to clear the ball off the line the clearance out to the left falling straight to Watford’s Hinchcliffe the centre back smashing a low shot back across goal into the back of the net 0-1.

Sydney Hinchcliffe with the opening goal for Watford Ladies U23s

   Amy Makewell carries the ball on down the right, is stopped by Watford’s Holly Holt. Ashleigh Deacon combines with Chitate as Stevenage try to play Makewell in behind, play brought back by referee Lyn McGregor after there was no advantage after Chitate was fouled. Ryan over the free kick inside the Watford half as players go forwards, the delivery high into the area punched down by martin falls straight to Dominique Godbeer positioned just inside the area catches it on the volley her attempt over the bar. 

Stevenage Ladies, Dominique Godbeer

  A good response from Stevenage having fallen behind Josland and Chitate enjoying a competitive battle with Watford captain Rebecca McShane and Katie Akerman. Challenges a plenty. Afuakwah on the ball right for Watford lays it on through the middle for Harvey, the striker unable to gather the ball races through into the area Dickens lively after it, Hayley Wood-Thompson back with her the Stevenage full back putting Dickens under pressure as she blasts her shot wide. 

  Afuakwah is fouled by Searle outside the area 20 out right of the D, Dickens over it with an early shot over the wall striking the base of the near post… but she had gone to soon wait for the whistle, retaken Dickens puts it over this time. Makewell taking the ball on down the right a powerful run turns inside getting into the box, is eventually stopped as 3 Watford defenders converge to close her down six yards out. Watford quick to counter Afuakwah a ready outlet on their right down the line her cross in cleared by Godbeer. Stevenage return the counter attack with interest putting Searle in on the left closing in on the area her cross inside only finding the Watford defence. Makewell drags a shot wide from the top of the area, the flag raised against her however.

Linda Afuakwah on the attack for Watford

   Makewell linking with Deacon for Stevenage as Emmings breaks down the right wins a corner. The delivery well played drops into the six yard box Deacon with her back to goal closely marked by Martin can’t get around her to shoot the ball scrambled away to the right Makewell drives a shot back in the effort narrowly wide. Play turned around quickly fro both sides the game played at a good tempo, Hinchcliffe with some great defending on Makewell as she is played through on goal centrally. 

Stevenage Ladies, Ashleigh Deacon

  Appeals for handball waved away as Stevenage press Watford outside their area, Hinchcliffe’s arm raised as Makewell attempts to flick it on. A free kick for Stevenage on halfway knocked on by Josland puts Deacon in behind right into the box, Martin out to close her down saves well at her feet, the ball knocked away Martin grounded pouncing to claim the loose ball. 40 minutes played.

Watford Ladies U23s goalkeeper, Amy Martin

  GOAL! Watford have dealt with a spell of pressure from Stevenage well breaking forwards double their lead just before half-time the ball knocked on is into Dickens on the left just outside the area hits the ball well arrowing in towards goal Vandersluis dives to her left full stretch but can’t keep it out as the ball squeezes inside the post 0-2.

Andie Dickens scorer of Watford’s 2nd goal

  Plenty of rubber in the new pitch flying up as sliding tackles come in, lively Stevenage getting frustrated with some decisions. Afiya Johnson forwards to support Eshe and Afuakwah on the right the trio win a corner, played long to the top of the box a shot driven in Vandersluis diving the ball behind for another set piece this time Stevenage defend break on the counter, Josland on for Emmings, Danielle Maloney defends for Watford. 

  Stevenage with a free-kick at the end of the first half the ball defended in the box by Watford’s Afuakwah she brings it away the ball played on to Eshe Johnson she plays it through for Harvey who is tackled by Godbeer, McShane bursting forwards regaining possession picks out Afuakwah into space on the right full of pace takes the ball on into the box blasting a rising shot into the side netting.

Half-time Stevenage Ladies 0-2 Watford Ladies U23s

  A 2-0 lead for Watford at half-time a bright start pressing the ball, forcing their opponents into rushed passes took the early lead, defended well as Stevenage sought to find gaps in behind created opportunities to find an equalising goal the temp high throughout Watford dealing with the pressure ready to go on the attack hit a 2nd late in the first half to give themselves a good platform to build on 2nd half. Stevenage will want to come out of the blocks strong at the start of the 2nd period if they want to get back into the game. 

   It’s Watford to get the 2nd half underway, Stevenage in to get on the ball, Chitate with Bennett the ball launched forwards with Emmings running clear in behind left channel Martin coming out to close the angle saving well getting her gloves onto the ball. Emmings appeals for a penalty as she ends up on the ground inside the box trying to see the ball into her body from a Searle throw in on the right, the appeals waved away. Josland gets across to tackle Afuakwah as Eshe Johnson aims to send her away on the right.

Stevenage Ladies, Ellie Searle

  Bennett is down with a knock for Stevenage, an early change in the 2nd half as she comes off, on in her place Cara Breckenridge. Searle making ground on the left wing for Stevenage a cross in low across the face of goal from deep Emmings diving to head the ball just misses it at the near post the ball racing on. Akerman bringing the ball on for Watford through the middle plays it forwards with Eshe Johnson pulling away right shoots early from outside the area, Vandersluis claims it. 

Hannah Vandersluis down to save for Stevenage Ladies

  A good start to the 2nd half for Stevenage they press forwards, Holt and Maloney both denying final balls for Watford. A throw won on the left played into Josland the Stevenage midfielder shooting from 20 yards out left her strike held into Martins midriff. Watford counter the ball central played out to Dickens left has Holt breaking ahead of her on the overlap the fullback turning inside central closing in on the D, thinks about shooting instead attempts to thread it through for Harvey the Stevenage defence shutting the door the clearance intercepted by Akerman 30 yards out given time to line up a shot her strike doesn’t trouble Vandersluis.

Katie Akerman bringing the ball away for Watford

  Emmings closing down Watford at the back wins the ball outside the box a snap shot right of the D races wide. play brought back after no advantage from a foul Watford have a free-kick 25 yards out to the left of goal, Maloney on it goes for goal the attempt landing wide of the near post. An hour on the clock Stevenage make a 2nd change with Erin Pope coming on for Josland. Afuakwah central runs in behind the Stevenage defence 25 yards out as Vandersluis comes to narrow the angle the Watford attacker shoots her effort past the keeper runs wide of the post.

   GOAL! A corner won on the left as Akerman winning the tackle in midfield plays it out to Dickens on the left support from Holt who gets the corner. The delivery on the spot into the middle of the six yard box 3 Watford players attack it Hinchcliffe, Eshe Johnson and between them Harvey who gets up highest to head the ball down and in to make it 0-3.

  Stevenage make another change Chitate coming off on comes Amy Runicman to join the attack. A minute later Watford make a change and it’s the goalscorer coming off Harvey replaced by Jennifer Hughes. A free-kick wide right for Stevenage, Makewell plays in towards the far post Martin up to glove the ball away for a corner kick, delayed as the trainer comes on for an injury. Watford defending the set piece break Afuakwah through the centre now on for Hughes peeling into space on the left her cross into the box cut out, Eshe Johnson bundled over as she tries to collect just outside the D. Akerman with the free-kick her shot no trouble for Vandersluis.

Watford Ladies U23s, Danielle Maloney

   Emmings after a forwards pass on her right checks inside to get into the area, Hinchcliffe challenging the ball put behind for a corner. In from the right to the near post area Runicman gets over the ball shooting held safely as Martin gets across. Stevenage getting frustrated Watford working hard to keep up the tempo challenge for everything, decisions not going Stevenage’s way. Afuakwah run of running with the ball has Hughes to her right giving her the ball she shoots 20 yards out Vandersluis going to ground pushing the ball behind at the near post.  Makewell and Emmings link up get Deacon in on the left her shot outside the box charged down. 

  GOAL! Counter attacking play from Watford leads to a 4th goal Stevenage pushing for a goal are hit on the break the ball put n quickly for Eshe Johnson through the centre clear on goal closing in on the area right of the D, composed as Vandersluis moves towards her, the striker placing the ball wide of the keeper and into the bottom corner with less than 20 minutes to play 0-4.

Eshe Johnson puts Watford into a 4 goal lead

  Stevenage very nearly pull a goal back from the restart as Makewell is played in on the right down the wing crosses from deep a dangerous ball across the face of goal Emmings meets the ball, virtually on top of Martin the keeper going to ground somehow managing to make the save smothering both ball and player, Emmings trying to get over the keeper to reach the loose ball, Martin snatches it away. Emmings down injured after the coming together, a spell of on the pitch treatment before needing to come off, on comes Melody Jones

  Makewell tries to get Pope in on goal as she breaks through the middle, she sees Searle getting clear on the left tries to play the pass through, McShane backtracking doing well to intercept get the ball back to her keeper. Watford with a change as Dickens comes off Hannah Coote going over to her position on the left. Coote with an early chance as she is played in with a crossfield pass, lets fly from 25 yards out, Vandersluis with a great save diving to her right to push the ball wide for a corner. 

Watford’s, Hannah Coote

  Watford’s turn to appeal for a penalty as the ball comes into the area, play goes on cleared out of the box collected by Hughes on the right sends a cross back in to the far post Maloney up to meet it sends her header wide. Watford think they’ve scored a 5th as the ball is put over the top Vandersluis saving the first strike Afuakwah burying the rebound. The celebrations cut short however assistant Gemma Smith with her flag up and early too before Vandersluis blocked the first attempt no goal.

   Afuakwah comes off with Watford’s top scorer Jessica Biggerstaff coming on. Biggerstaff getting in on the action straight away as she runs on through to send a shot into the side netting. Afiya Johnson linking with Hughes on the right the ball taken to the byline cut back centrally Eshe Johnson with the shot Vandersluis with a superb save. Tempers getting a little frayed Stevenage have been frustrated by their opponents Searle collecting a yellow card.

  A double change late in proceedings for Watford, Eshe Johnson and McShane off, on come Alketa Rragami and Holly Greenwood. Watford finish strong Biggerstaff with space in the box sees her shot deflected onto the keeper to spin away for a corner. A push in the back spotted as Watford play it in. Stevenage with a corner in stoppage time on the left the ball in Searle up to meet it near side her header wide across the face of goal. The final whistle blows and Watford Ladies U23s bundle atop one another in celebration as they win the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.

Full time Stevenage Ladies 0-4 Watford Ladies U23s

  A fantastic result for Watford’s U23s played well throughout a bright start pressing well, restricting the time their opponents had on the ball getting in front early on Stevenage responding well fighting back didn’t get the decisions growing frustrated as opportunities wen by Watford doubling their lead before half-time. Stevenage you felt needed the next goal as it was Watford were the side to find the back of the net to go 3-0 up. Stevenage could not find a reply to pressure the scoreline Watford strong as they took a 4 goal lead never looking back.  

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match award. A good performance all round from Watford Ladies U23s putting some good attacking moves together, defending well, Amy Martin with some very confident and brave goalkeeping. Have chosen Linda Afuakwah was a threat throughout on the right then through the middle making some great runs taking players on and creating chances, always an outlet making herself available whenever Watford won the ball.

 

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Winners, Watford Ladies U23s

 Congratulations to Watford Ladies U23s on winning the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.

  An early kick-off, managed to avoid the torrential down pour that came after the game. A match report finished before 10pm is a rarity too but lots to do, the finals coming thick and fast now the next on Tuesday. An entertaining match a good number coming to watch, my thanks to Hertfordshire FA for all their help today, much appreciated.