Category Archives: Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup

Cup Final Special – St Ives Town Ladies v Cardea FC Ladies

Wednesday 12th April

Huntingdonshire FA Women’s Senior Cup Final

The cup finals start to come thick and fast now across the East beginning this Wednesday evening with a trip over to Eynesbury Roves FC to watch the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final between St Ives Town Ladies and Cardea FC Ladies.

The Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup still very much in it’s infancy with this being the 2nd season the competition has taken place with Cambridge United WFC beating St Ives Town Ladies with a last gasp winner to win the inaugural final by a single goal.

This evening’s prize (photo credit Hunts FA)

Cambridge United WFC with a one season stay in the competition re-joining the neighbouring Cambs FA competition, the competition set for a new name on the trophy. A small catchment area with alot of potential for growth within the women’s game, 7 sides across county and regional leagues entering.

St Ives Town Ladies very much the strongest and most established of these sides, enjoying a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid a 3 season stay in the ERWFL Premier Division coming to an end last season. Looking to bounce back straight away always a challenge with only one promotion spot up for grabs into ERWFL Division One North have been building a strong squad but haven’t had the consistency or luck with injuries to pressure to top two sitting comfortable in 3rd have a solid platform going forwards, a great relationship with St Ives the women’s section very much part of the club, re establishing a 2nd team this season too, playing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two. Annie Posnett one of St Ives new signings this season a striker who I have heard talked about highly on several occasions has so far weighed in with 23 goals from 16 appearances. Into the last four of the ERWFL League Plate too with the potential to challenge for more silverware.

Cardea FC Ladies reaching their first ever final, near Peterborough are a side very much on the rise getting stronger each year after initially finding life tough as a new side. Playing in the Cambridgeshire County League are currently top of Division One vying for the title with Histon Ladies both currently on the same points Cardea crucially with a game in hand. The signing of Emma Pollard playing a large role in Cardea’s development over the past few season’s coming to the club form Peterborough Northern Star with both experience in the FAWNL aswell as ERWFL is often amongst the goals, has an incredible 48 goals so far this season from just 15 appearances and will be a player St Ives need to watch. Isn’t the only goal scorer in the side by any means with captain Laura Rudd also weighing in with 16 goals to date along with Georgie Elsom and Courtney Coles on 9 and 8 respectfully. Underdogs in terms of pyramid placings but that gap is a little misleading will fancy their chances. Also through to the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup where they with again face Histon Ladies on Weds 10th May at St Neots Town FC.

Road to the Final

Huntingdon Town Ladies with the bye in the quarter finals, St Ives Town Ladies were drawn away to Cambridgeshire Division One side Eaton Socon Ladies who had made a strong start following promotion the following season. Goals from Annie Posnett, Georga Stancombe and Katie Stancombe seeing St Ives through with a 3-1. Cardea FC Ladies at home to Yaxley Phoenix Ladies born from the Netherton United Ladies side that won the Cambridge Division One title last season new to the ERWFL a tough one on paper Cardea coming out on top to win the match 4-2 with goals from Emma Pollard, Courtney Coles, Georgie Elsom and Laura Rudd.

Into the last four St Ives drawn against their 2nd’s team, goals scored by Donna Nicholls, Hannah Seymour-Shove and Sasha Tristram securing a 3-0 victory and a 2nd successive cup final appearance. Cardea drawn away to Huntingdon Town Ladies of Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two. Emma Pollard in fire in front of goal that day scoring a double hat-trick as Cardea run out comfortable winners 9-0 Georgie Elsom also on target with a brace along with a goal or Brooke Ware.

Eynesbury Rovers FC

Eynesbury Rovers FC hosting the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final for the 2nd successive season. Features a large grass pitch offering plenty of width and space to stretch an opponent. In good condition the recent heavy rain a concern leading up to the match but thankfully not too much on match day itself. A scaffold seated stand built behind one goal with viewing all round. The clubhouse on one side offering alcoholic drinks and a tea hatch serving hot drinks and food. Build onto that the changing rooms behind another seated stand along one side of the pitch. The weather better than forecast with clouds around but the heavy showers likely to stay away. The setting sun red in the sky over the main stand as the teams are led out onto the pitch by referee Lauren Dobbs heading up an all female officiating team.

St Ives Town Ladies

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Sarah Aftelak, Lauren Fort, Sarah Mosley, Georgia Stancombe(C), Hannah Seymour-Shove, Niamh Sutherland, Jess Perrin, Evonne Yerrell, Katie Stancombe, Donna Nicholls & Annie Posnett. Subs – Claire Stancliffe, Sasha Smith, Jess Conyard, Koren Evan & Jess Didio.

Cardea FC Ladies

Cardea FC Ladies starting XI – Poppy Halstead, Laura Ramsaran, Fiona Plumb, Sofia Aragosa, Jess O’Sullivan, Helen Buckingham, Laura Rudd (C), Brooke Ware, Olivia Smith, Emma Pollard & Georgie Elsom. Subs – Maisie Homden, Courtney Coles, Titch Abraham, Mia Newman & Charlotte Moffat.

Cardea to get the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing an all navy kit with St Ives lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black vertical striping on the front, black shorts and socks. The ball played into midfield St Ives rushing in to press the ball forced back to Laura Ramsaran at right back, Katie Stancombe closing her down for St Ives the ball cleared across the defence to Fiona Plumb on the opposite side to send up the line for Emma Pollard to chase, St Ives, Evonne Yerrell sliding in to put the ball out for a throw

GOAL! Cardea taking the lead inside 50 seconds with the ball high on the left Pollard sliding the pass inside for captain Laura Rudd all of 30 yards out to strike a high ball in towards goal, St Ives goalkeeper Sarah Aftelak not on her line back peddling can’t reach it as it drops over her into the back of the net beyond 0-1.

The perfect start for Cardea taking the lead inside the opening minutes need to settle as St Ives get hold of the ball in the middle counter out to Katie Stancombe left she sends it long into the right channel with Annie Posnett bursting forwards, Ramsaran getting in close to challenge the ball out behind for a goal kick. The ball contested in the middle rebounding off plays popping forwards for Pollard pulling away into the right channel space to attack, Yerrell coming across her to put in the block to prevent the cross, Lauren Fort getting across in support clearing the ball.

Cardea making a positive start buoyed by the early goal looking to close St Ives down all over the pitch. Katie Stancombe getting onto the ball left wing brought down by Cardea’s Brooke Ware winning a free-kick 35 yards out, Sarah Mosley over the set-piece going for goal getting her shot over the wall wide of the near post. Cardea working hard at the back to close down the ball, Pollard a ready outlet in attack with the ball cleared up field.

Cardea attacking on the left Georgie Elsom coming back to win the ball forwards for Rudd, attempts the threaded pass forwards into Pollard breaking in behind, Fort with the interception for St Ives getting hold of the ball. St Ives looking to se the width of the pitch with some god crossfield passing coming right to left into Mosley forwards for Katie Stancombe, pace looking to surge down the wing, Ramsaran on her shoulder sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. Is shaping up to be an open and even contest Cardea winning the ball well in the air deeper not wanting to let St Ives find room in behind.

Jess Perrin bringing the ball on in midfield for St Ives aiming for Posnett drifting out to the right, Plumb winning the ball for Cardea. St Ives press through the middle, Posnett looking to force her way through the defence, Sofia Aragosa tackling well for Cardea before the free-kick is given away in a dangerous position 25 yards out right side of the D, Hannah Seymour-Shove over the ball. Attempts the shot curling wide of the top left corner.

Poppy Halstead’s goal kick finding Elsom her flick on looking to put Pollard away in behind to attack the St Ives box a vital interception from St Ives captain, Georgia Stancombe. Another interception form Georgia Stancombe at the back sprays the pass left into Katie Stancombe bringing the ball on comes back inside picking out Niamh Sutherland into Nicholls moving to the right with Seymour-Shove the cross cleared by Cardea’s defence. Yerrell with Nicholls out on the right for St Ives lifting an inviting cross into the area, Halstead with an assured catch in her six yard box with Posnett providing a central run. Yerrell staying down after the attack, assessed need to come off an early change for St Ives Jess Conyard coming on with 20 minutes played.

Cardea pushing on well up the left Rudd on for Pollard winning a corner kick. A vicious inswinging ball into the near post from the left, St Ives dealing with the threat launched clear get on the counter attack winning a corner on the right. Another great delivery from a corner swung in central Halstead rising well in her six yard box to punch the ball away to the right, St Ives looking to keep the pressure on however the ball forwards is over run out for a goal kick. Cardea working hard frustrating St Ives remains open, players often drawn to the ball condensed plenty of space available to run into.

Mosley closing down Ware of the left to win the ball attacks sending it on for Posnett pulling into the left channel racing into the box, Halstead rushing out to save at her feet, play stopped however by a raised flag. Cardea appealing for a foul at one end on Pollard are nearly caught out at the back by an awkward bouncing ball 30 yards out Aragosa doing well to keep her eye in it with Posnett looking to latch on it steal in on goal wins the free-kick against her. Helen Buckingham playing the ball into Rudd the midfielder breaking forwards through the middle, attempts to get Pollard in on the ball cutting inside from the left, a little too much on the pass as Aftelak rushes out to the edge of her area to claim.

St Ives putting the ball across the pitch from right to left Mosley forwards into Katie Stancombe sending it inside for Seymour-Shove, Rudd snapping back at her to regain possession for Cardea. Sutherland bringing the ball under control for St Ives central puts the threaded pass on for Seymour-Shove to attack, Halstead with a good starting position inside her box racing out to get hold of it first. Pollard coming back to win the ball lays it back for Jess-O’Sullivan picks out Rudd with her pass, finds Pollard racing up the left, is fouled.

Free-kicks given away by both sides a feature of the game with both rushing into one another to try and win the ball. Elsom seeing the ball into her feet well sending the pass infield for Rudd bursting forwards, Georgia Stancombe getting into close her down winning the tackle. Katie Stancombe high on the left putting a diagonal ball out to Nicholls on the right side knocked inside cleared by O’Sullivan for Cardea. Conyard forwards on the right supporting Nicholls and Seymour-Shove, O’Sullivan getting in amongst it to win the ball back for Cardea. St Ives finding it tough to break down a stubborn Cardea back line. Ramsaran with a long throw in her arsenal looking to relief some pressure.

Elsom out on the right for Cardea looking to line one up from distance, charged down by Mosley. St Ives with time to move the ball in front of the Cardea back line going left to right Nicholls lifting a cross into the near post, Katie Stancombe looking to get it down off her chest into her feet and turn to shoot, is quickly closed down by the Cardea defence. St Ives pressing the attack right side Conyard with Seymour-Shove out to Posnett wide the ball sent inside across the top of the area for Nicholls left of the D, Ware back to defend for Cardea getting a toe on the ball to take it away from the attacker, Nicholls still after the ball puts her foot through the ball, Ware with the blocking tackle.

35 minutes played Cardea with the early goal working hard to keep St Ives from finding a reply, Ramsaran cutting out a diagonal ball from the middle as Perrin and Sutherland combine in midfield giving the defence a chance to regroup. St Ives pushing late in the first half winning a throw high on the right the ball inside cleared by Buckingham into Olivia Smith then Elsom, Seymour-Shove getting back to tackle Pollard as Elsom tries to pick her out up top. Nicholls left channel forwards into Posnett top of the area, trying to pull off her marker, O’Sullivan stabbing out a foot to take the ball away from the attacker.

The battle in midfield intense at times Rudd up to Elsom sends the pass into Pollard running into the left channel, Aftelak out well to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Nicholls with a good piece of skill to get the ball under control and turn lifting it on for Perrin breaking from midfield, Aragosa defending as she closes her down attempting to get the ball under control inside the D. Seymour-Shove playing the ball forwards to Posnett pulling into the area right of the D, Halstead starts to come for the ball Aragosa struggling to get to the flight of the ball knocking it down away to the right of goal, Posnett lively after it, Aragosa recovering to get across and swing her leg through the ball to clear.

Sutherland into Perrin left in midfield, clipped high into the box, the defensive header from Aragosa to clear. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Pollard remains the outlet up top taking the ball on down the left wing, Conyard preventing the cross coming into the area. With St Ives pressing players forwards Cardea’s defence remains solid Ramsaran winning the ball cleared up into the opposition half Pollard out on the right corner of the area unleashing a shot races wide of the far post.

St Ives with a good chances for a counter attack in the closing moments of the half, the ball launched out to the right Posnett racing after it Ramsaran getting across to her to slide in with the challenge knocking the ball out of play. Trouble for Posnett though as she stays down a blow can’t continue is replaced with little time left till the half-time break, Jess Didio coming on. Cardea mounting one last attack the ball sent out to the right for Ware to chase down checks inside to play the ball across the top of the Si Ives area looking for Elsom, Georgia Stancombe with a fantastic tackle, winning a free-kick in the process.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies 0-1 Cardea FC Ladies

Laura Rudd’s speculative strike in the opening 50 seconds seeing Cardea open the scoring and that is how it has remained for first half. Cardea sticking back working hard in defence to win the ball prevent St Ives getting in to expose them. Competitive with a high work rate has been a open game to a degree, St Ives allowed to come on spreading the ball across the pitch frustrated haven’t found the final clinical pass. Losing two players to injury too compounding that frustration yet with just a goal in it still plenty to play for. Cardea putting alot into the 1st a half will aim to do the same 2nd half with space likely to open up.

Appears to be no more chances at half-time St Ives to get the 2nd half underway has become decidedly chilly. The ball rolled back into defence Elsom pressing the full back, Conyard getting back at her to regain possession for St Ives. Cardea looking press St Ives defenders at the start of the 2nd half, Pollard getting hold of the ball top right of the D, Georgia Stancombe getting across her to put in the blocking tackle. Katie Stancombe up top for St Ives now running towards the box jinking left and right on the ball closed down, the loose ball coming to Seymour-Shove sends her cross/shot wide across goal.

Ware winning the ball well for Cardea on the left inside for Rudd tackled by Perrin, St Ives come left winning a throw, work the cross into the area headed clear by Aragosa. Back out to the left St Ives winning the free-kick. Katie Stancombe sending an inviting ball in across the area no one from either side getting a touch as it bounces out beyond the far post for a goal kick. St Ives building momentum in attack getting players up around the box, Katie Stancombe laying the ball back for Perrin to strike up into the area, Aragosa under it for Cardea, the ball going away for a corner kick to the right.

The corner put in towards the top of the area flicked inside the ball struck hard whistling past the keeper into the back of the net St Ives wheel round to celebrate thinking they have the equaliser, but no the assistants flag it up it won’t count!

St Ives need to re focus immediately, Cardea pressing the ball into the middle looking to release Pollard in attack Georgia Stancombe intercepting, encouraging her side to keep going. Ware attacking on the right, Mosley closing her down just about to stop the pass getting through to Elsom in attack. Pollard putting in a shift in attack pulls up suddenly looks serious as play is stopped but as Aftelak comes to offer support it is thankfully just a nasty case of cramp. St Ives nevertheless take the opportunity to make a change bringing on Sasha Smith for Sutherland.

Bursting up the left attacking St Ives win a corner, sending players up into the box is a great ball curled in towards the middle of goal putting the keeper under pressure as Halstead goes down to get hold of it St Ives attempting to force it over the line, appealing it’s over the line but Halstead saves well has it firmly in her gloves. St Ives making a few positional changes taking a few risks at the back bringing more players on looking to find an opening Seymour-Shove pulling right sends a high cross into the box, Halstead up well to pluck the ball down safely in control of the situation.

Perrin frustrated as she’s adjudged to have fouled Buckingham on half way a free-kick to Cardea. Aragosa sending it long up to the top of the area Katie Stancombe back there to head clear. Up to Nicholls as St Ives look to break, Plumb defending well for Cardea. Cardea making a double switch on the hour mark ringing of Ware and Smith on come Mia Newman and Titch Abraham. Perrin clattered down top of the centre circle winning the free-kick for St Ives, Katie Stancombe sending it up towards the top of the area headed clear by the Cardea defence.

Nicholls enjoying a good tussle with Rudd as the pair battle for possession of the ball, Nicholls getting away to run down the line, fouled as O’Sullivan and Abraham converge to close her down. St Ives getting more of the ball Cardea fighting for everything, Perrin driving on central looking for the one two with Didio, the return ball cut out top of the area. Cardea holding their line well as Katie Stancombe tries to pick out Seymour-Shove wide right. Cardea winning a free-kick on half-way make a 3rd change bringing on Courtney Coles for Georgie Elsom who has felt her hamstring tightening up. The ball sent up into the St Ives area won by Georgia Stancombe headed clear.

20 minutes left to go Cardea tiring but resolute fighting hard to close down the ball in the middle of the park take the pressure off the defence. Abrahams getting the ball of Aragosa at the back for Cardea pulling right, with Buckingham coming on in support, Conyard out to close the ball down well inside for Didio, Rudd snapping into the challenge. Coles with the lay off up top into Abraham racing in behind left channel, Fort getting across to challenge for St Ives. The game stretched to substitutes bringing renewed energy onto the field. St Ives with a double change looking to respond, Mosley and Seymour-Shove off, Koren Evan and Claire Stancliffe coming on.

Cardea sensing they hold out Ramsaran lunging in to tackle at right back as St Ives get the ball out wide into Smith. Abraham lively on the flank intercepting the ball or Cardea inside the St Ives half on for Pollard wide, Abraham bursting forwards to get into the box as Pollard shifts inside to send the ball into her path Abraham 1st time strike blasted wide of the near post.

Chances opening up for Cardea as the game progresses, Pollard with a shot from wide on the right held low by Aftelak at her near post. St Ives winning a free-kick 35 yards out Perrin over it to the right of goal players lining up to attack the far post Perrin instead puts the ball in towards goal, Halstead not caught off guard catching well. Cardea playing a set-piece from half way into the right channel, Stancliffe getting across to clear for St Ives. O’Sullivan down for Cardea struggling needing to be replaced Charlotte Moffat.

Straight into the action the ball lifted into her left side of attack holding it up well as teammates look to get up in support. The game stretched St Ives looking to get it into their attacking players just can’t get it to stick, Cardea giving no one any time on the ball. Katie Stancombe the most likely to make something happen the ball rolling into her path she unleashed a strike from distance hit well angling in for the top corner, Halstead with a brilliant save throwing her herself up to her right to get a hand on the ball knock it away to the touch line, St Ives retrieving Smith firing a low ball in towards the near post Halstead scrambling forwards to dive on the ball.

The clock running down St Ives still trailing y a single goal the game there to be turned on it’s head if they can find that one all important chance. Abraham closing down Conyard well on the wing as the full back looks to get on. Halstead busy inside her box out well to lay claim to the ball as a shot is driven in from the left, then gives it away kicking the ball straight to Evan 25 yards out, attempting to lob the keeper find the open goal beyond Halstead backing up frantically relieved to bring the ball down safely into her gloves.

Into the final 5 minutes Cardea determined to hold out St Ives pushing on Katie Stancombe finding Conyard up on the right, Plumb preventing the cross coming in closing her down. Georgia Stancombe pushed up field right of the box flashing a cross into the six yard box, Halstead with a good take. Plumb coming off for Cardea late on Maisie Homden coming on. The game moving into stoppage time Pollard experienced looking to take the ball into the corner, one goal for St Ives changes everything, straight to penalties Pollard winning a throw in the ball rolled into Coles outside the box lifted inside Moffat drifting in near post puts the shot wide. St Ives break on with one last attack the ball knocked on Halstead out to the top corner of the area to put her gloves on the ball, cleared the whistle blows Cardea win the cup.

Full time St Ives Town Ladies 0-1 Cardea FC Ladies

Cardea win the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup in their 1st ever final appearance, Laura Rudd’s early strike the difference. Cardea working hard fighting to close down the ball all over the pitch keeping it tight at the back winning some vital balls. Getting tense towards the end a 2nd gaol would have gone along way to relieving that but defended well the substitutes all playing their part in keeping the work rate up. St Ives frustrated losing the final by a single goal for the 2nd year running, back then a late late winner. This time hit with an early goal couldn’t find a reply, had a goal disallowed 2nd half and the keeper holding the ball on the line but couldn’t find the break through injuries not helping. County Cups often throw up rivalries over the season’s and there’s a good chance we’re seeing another one here, these two sides will be regular contenders for the trophy.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual it’s a tough call some great performances out on the pitch. A few to mention, for St Ives Katie Stancombe carried a strong threat in attack, running with the ball and getting into advanced position’s coming close to finding the equaliser with a fine strike. At the back Georgia Stancombe was solid making a number of vital tackles and winning the ball. Cardea were strong from back to front working hard to close the ball down and a whole round team effort including their substitutes. Emma Pollard providing a great outlet in attack always available for the ball. Laura Rudd winning the ball in midfield netting the winning goal. The defence strong in particular Laura Ramsaran and Sofia Aragosa, the award like last year though goes to the keeper, Poppy Halstead with a great display inside her box calling well positionally sound and coming for the ball with a couple of vital saves too.

Cardea FC Ladies 2022/23 Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Winners (photo credit Hunts FA)

Congratulations to Cardea FC Ladies on winning the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup

An enjoyable evening at Eynesbury Rovers my thanks to the staff their and those at Hunts FA for all their help. So pleased the rain stayed away. Thanks to too both teams for their help with the starting line-ups will update with extra pictures as son as I have them.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v St Ives Town Ladies

Wednesday 13th April

Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final

A busy week of cup final action on Women’s Football East, starting this Wednesday evening with a trip to Eynesbury Rovers FC or the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final between Cambridge United WFC and St Ives Town Ladies.

Huntingdonshire FA’s inaugural Women’s Senior Cup at last taking place after Covid put pay to the final being played last season. 7 women’s sides featured within the county with representatives varying from county level right up to FAWNL Division One the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid.

The two strongest sides within the county reaching the final of the competition with Cambridge United WFC playing their football at St Neots Town FC playing in FAWNL South East Division One taking on St Ives Town Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division below.

Cambridge United WFC manager, Darren Marjoram taking on familiar opponents having joined the FAWNL side at the start of the season having previously been manager at St Ives Town playing a major role in the clubs development and rapid rise up the football pyramid. Overall a successful 1st season with Cambridge pushing for a top 4 finish at one point tailing away towards the end with consistency proving a challenge will secure a mid-table finish with a good platform to build on next season. Cambridge United WFC enjoying closer ties with Cambridge United FC which will benefit them going forwards have traditionally been a dominant force within the county cup competition in Cambridgeshire itself, now with their base in Huntingdonshire have the opportunity to contest for silverware once again.

St Ives Town Ladies having reached the ERWFL Premier Division 3 seasons ago after a fast and strong rise through the leagues, were looking strong in their debut season, then Covid came along and put an end to proceedings, the following season likewise affected stifling development for a lot of clubs. A change of management this season with Ben Green eventually taking charge. Have found this season in the ERWFL Premier Division a struggle winning just one of their opening 8 league fixtures and with one game left to play are unfortunately at the bottom of the table and facing the prospect of relegation, yet the mood in the camp remains positive and recent results giving the squad some much needed confidence going into this evenings final.

Road to the Final

With 7 sides contesting, new side Huntingdon Town Ladies made up largely of the old St Ives Town Ladies Development side were the ones to receive a bye into the last 4. Cambridge United WFC starting their cup campaign away to Cardea FC Ladies,, 2nd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One, 3 divisions between the sides Cambridge running out comfortable winners with both Ruth Fox and Laura Mitchell scoring a hat-trick in an 11-0 win. A equally high scoring victory for St Ives Town Ladies in their quarter final away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two side, Brampton Ladies. Charlotte Noble on target with a hat-trick with top scorers Angel Lyden netting a brace in a 10-2 result.

Into the last 4 and Cambridge were drawn at home to Cambridge Women’s Division Two title chasers, Eaton Socon Ladies. A good test for the visitors young squad, Cambridge once again racking up the goals powering into the final with a 13-0 win. St Ives at home to Huntingdon Town Ladies in their semi-final. Georgia Stancombe on target with a brace with a goal each for Kati Stancombe and Sasha Smith seeing them through to their first county cup final.

The venue for the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Final, Eynesbury Rovers FC. Like St Neots, Premier Plus Stadium situated in a residential area, featuring a very large grass pitch which will offer plenty of width in great condition. A seated stand along one side of the ground opposite the dugouts, housing the changing rooms with the bar/clubhouse with kitchen hatch alongside. Another seated stand behind one of the goals a good sized crowd building. A pleasant warm day carrying into the evening mild with no wind or rain forecast.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Lauren Rouse, Abi Davies, Gisela Otten (C), Abbi Griffin, Faith Hewitt, Laura Mitchell, Nicole Emmings & Ruth Fox. Subs – Kira Markwell, Grace Waygood, Alysha Stojko-Down, Libby Fraser & Niamh Day.

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Sarah Aftelak, Mollie Flack, Sasha Smith, Anna Hicks (C), Georgia Stancombe, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Jessica Conyard, Sarah Mosley, Angel Lyden, Katie Stancombe & Elle Jefferson. Subs – Lauren Bird, Poppy Lyons & Penelope Ford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Three former St Ives players following Darren Marjoram to Cambridge all featuring in this evenings final with Ruth Fox, top scorer for Cambridge this season with 14 goals leading the attack and Abbi Griffin starting in midfield. Goalkeeper, Kira Markwell on the bench. Cambridge to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks with St Ives opposite wearing white shirts with black vertical striping, black shorts and socks. The play played diagonally out to the left wing for Nicole Emmings, Mollie Flack gaining possession for St Ives lifting the ball back into the middle.

St Ives closing in on the ball Jessica Conyard playing it out to Angel Lyden on the right support with Sarah Mosley down the flank the pair playing a good one two on, Carrie Bennett across the ball for Cambridge to see it safely out of play for a goalkick. Cambridge winning a free-kick captain Gisella Otten on for Laura Mitchell on the right takes the ball on squaring it into Ruth Fox top of the area, Georgia Stancombe defending for St Ives the ball back with Kayleigh-Anne Burt on the right spreads play across to Lauren Rouse moving left on for Bennett up for Emmings taking the ball up up the left whistling a cross into the box, Fox the target central, St Ives captain Anna Hicks getting her foot on the ball to clear.

St Ives, Mollie Flack with Cambridge’s Nicole Emmings (photo credit Ben Phillips)

St Ives build on the left getting a free-kick the ball played on cleared is picked up by Katie Stancombe out left 30 yards out strikes the ball goalwards, arrowing in, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb with a spectacular save, athletically diving to her right gloving the ball away for a corner kick. The corner delivery lofted into a crowded near post, Webb coming in amongst everyone to jump punch the ball down, cleared up to Mitchell looking to break, Sarah Aftelak keeping goal for St Ives out of her box to clear.

St Ives with a fast start looking to press the ball get it moving forwards quickly, Elle Jefferson in attack nudging the ball on for Lyden, Burt closing in to tackle, halt St Ives progress for Cambridge. Lyden getting on well right side with Jefferson supporting, Faith Hewitt across to put in the tackle. Cambridge rushed on the ball as St Ives work to close down passes not finding their targets. Rouse at the back for Cambridge onto Hewitt with Bennett going on left side her diagonal ball flighted into the area seen out at her near post by Aftelak. A busy opening 10 minutes from St Ives have caught Cambridge a little off guard, Mosley in to tackle Otten put the ball out to Lyden, Emmings tracking back to challenge get the ball back into Cambridge’s possession.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Emmings with Bennett up the left checks back inside firing a cross into the area Fox the target too close to the keeper Aftelak snatching it up into her gloves. Griffin down in the middle for Cambridge needing treatment after a challenge, is okay to continue. Play resuming Flack with a timely interception getting her foot on the ball as Emmings looks to thread a pass on in behind. Katie Stancombe with the ball driving on left side pace forced back up the line before turning and seeing her long range strike charged down. The ball up to Fox in attack right channel 25 out played back to Hewitt central out out to Mitchell on the right advances before flashing and angled shot wide across the St Ives goal.

Cambridge’s Faith Hewitt (photo credit Ben Phillips)

There positive start giving St Ives confidence, Jefferson linking up well with Lyden on the right keeping Bennett occupied at the back for Cambridge. Aftelak with a good catch high at her near post as Cambridge attack right Mitchell sending the ball in. Cambridge lose the ball at the back Rouse tackled by Katie Stancombe right sent onto Jefferson racing into the area evading Burt’s challenge, Griffin running back closing in to block before Jefferson can unleash a shot. St Ives quick to counter whenever they have the ball Lyden on the right looking to set up Jefferson ahead of her, Rouse defending well for Cambridge shielding the ball putting it back for Webb to clear.

Fox for Cambridge with a great first touch 25 yards out to take the ball in behind on the left channel, Lyden getting back on her shoulder to shoulder forces her wide before tackling to clear the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick on the left leading to a corner kick, players up from the back the six yard box loaded, the delivery in escaping the defender at the near post running on into the mix, a snap shot taken from close range Aftelak with a fantastic save leaping to her left to snatch the ball down with both hands.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

Otten central spinning to evade a tackle playing the ball into Fox’s feet as she peels away left channel to run in behind towards the box shooting from outside the area her effort drilled wide of the near post. A tug back leading to a St Ives free-kick central, players up as Georgia Stancombe sends it up into the area Jefferson unable to get it down under control before being closed down the ball cleared. Half and hour played, Griffin wrestling free with the ball in the middle sending it through for Fox left of the D too heavy though the keeper gathering safely.

Lyden strong on the right getting in behind, pace taking her to the by-line flashes a cross along the face of the Cambridge goal Katie Stancombe beyond the far post can’t keep it in. Otten puts the ball on for Emmings into space on the left driving on wraps her foot around the ball angling a cross into the box swerving goalwards Aftelak with a confident take high at her near post. Otten strong in the middle winning a St Ives goalkick the ball out to Emmings again on the left shifts inside this time shooting wide from 30 yards out. St Ives forced back as Cambridge get players forwards Davies up with Mitchell on the right the ball cut out fed across the the left Bennett up field delivering a cross into the top of the area Georgia Stancombe clearing for St Ives.

Cambridge gaining some momentum as the 1st half draws to a close Georgia Stancombe clearing a cross the ball out for a corner on the left. Put into the mix in front of goal Aftelak getting a fist on the ball can’t claim, falling a scramble in front of her put clear, Jefferson breaking with it through the middle, Mitchell racing back for Cambridge to challenge. Fox taking the ball on as she sees it into her feet and turns 25 yards out, Conyard going with her lunging in to take the ball away from her.

Hewitt fouled in the middle played out to Mitchell on the right Davies looking to get on with her, Smith timing her tackle well to halt Mitchell’s run. Davies up with Mitchell on the right moments later the shot angled in low, held well by Aftelak down smartly at her near post. Hannah Seymour-Shove tackling in the middle out to Katie Stancombe on the left driving on, Davies challenging as Burt comes to clear. Won back up to Mosley, Jefferson moving into the D ahead of her, Rouse getting her foot in to steal the ball. Burt sending the pass on for Davies bursting forwards on the right, strikes the ball on the angle from distance, Aftelak untroubled as she sees it wide of her far post.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

St Ives playing the ball on with pace through the centre Jefferson and Lyden looking to get into the box, Rouse across to put in the tackle before the ball is cleared for a throw on the left. St Ives winning a free-kick on their right, Bennett aggrieved as she goes in for a 50/50 challenge. Smith flighting an inviting ball into the box, Otten inside to defend with a firm header as push spotted however Cambridge getting the free-kick. Into the closing stages of the 1st half Cambridge attack on the right Fox up with Mitchell a throw won high up the pitch. The cross coming in off the throw sees Fox’s attempt near side charged down Mitchell getting hold of the rebound seeing her shot deflected wide for a corner on the right. Put in across the six yard box scrambled behind for another corner on the left this delivery cleared at the near post.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 St Ives Town Ladies

Goalless at the break. A competitive game with St Ives starting brightly working hard to close the ball down, get it on take the game to Cambridge who were a little cold at the start caught off guard. Webb called into action with an early save. The work rate continuing from St Ives have counted well, whilst defending their box. Cambridge gaining momentum as the half wore on will be interesting to see if St Ives can match this tempo 2nd half, remains all to play for.

Carrie Bennett with St Ives Elle Jefferson (photo credit Ben Phillips)

A triple change for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half with Kira Markwell replacing Webb in goal. Also on defender Grace Waygood and midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down for Burt and Hewitt. Tactical changes too as Griffin goes to right back, Davies up to joined Fox and Emmings in attack on the right side. St Ives with the same 11 get the 2nd period underway the scores level after 90 minutes the game goes straight to penalties. The ball played forwards cleared by Waygood. Both sides closing down in the middle the start of the 2nd half disjointed with neither side getting hold of the ball.

Cambridge build on the left Bennett on for Emmings attacking down the wing crossed into the area for Mitchell played back out to Stojko-Down 20 yards out, her strike charged down by Hicks. Cambridge showing more attacking intent at the start of the 2nd half looking to get on the front foot Stojko-Down and Otten tackling in the middle, the former fouled by Seymour-Shove a free-kick lifted into the area defended away for a corner kick on the left. Played in to the near side Emmings coming towards the ball twists as she leaps looking to turn the ball goalwards plants it wide.

Angel Lyden with Alysha Stojko-Down (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Smith’s clearance at the back has Lyden running in clear behind on the right, Markwell responding quickly advancing to the top of her area to grab the ball into her gloves. The ball clipped into Fox from midfield 25 yards out brings it down well turning to attack the area, runs into Georgia Stancombe who stabs out a foot to take the ball away. Davies and Emmings pushing on with Fox through the middle now in attack St Ives forced back, Otten and Stojko-Down in midfield winning the cleared ball back. Smith gets in a great tackle ,needed as Davies looks to charge on down the right side.

A flare-up on the right as St Ives win a free-kick, quickly extinguished by the referee, the set-piece send long into the area, Markwell unchallenged with an assured claim. Cambridge using the pitch better now as Otten coming right to win possession links up with Griffin the ball played into Stojko-Down central helped out to Bennett on the left forwards for Emmings her cross dinked into the area finds Fox getting a yard clear of the defence just inside she sends her shot in, narrowly over the crossbar.

Cambridge striker, Ruth Fox (photo credit Ben Phillips)

St Ives with their backs to the wall as Cambridge mount an attack on the left Emmings getting help from Mitchell the ball flashed in across the six yard box Davies in far side with a 1st time effort back across goal can only find Aftelak who is down swiftly on her line to save. Stojko-Down on for Emmings left a high ball into the box Davies managing to keep it in but Smith tackles for St Ives, Davies fouled as she goes to retrieve the ball. 56 minutes played and the first change of the game for St Ives as Poppy Lyons comes on in attack in place of Jefferson.

Cambridge up on the left with a throw in put into Mitchell shifts infield to the top corner of the area shooting low the ball rolling into Aftelak getting down to claim at her near post. Lyden up on the right with Katie Stancombe, Bennett forcing her back before Stojko-Down regains possession for Cambridge. Davies with pace on the right adding an attacking threat turning St Ives around whips a dangerous ball in across the six yard box, Flack cool under pressure with a cushioned header back to her keeper.

Cambridge’s Abi Davies (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Otten moving right with great foot work to back heel the ball on into the area, Mosley needing to track back to intercept, Katie Stancombe clearing options up the pitch limited Cambridge quickly regain possession. Smith in the wars for St Ives has taken another knock and this time needs to come off. Jefferson retuning to the pitch up alongside Lyons as Mosley drops back into left back. A ball played over the top for Davies attacking right of the D, Georgia Stancombe running with her to the ball first her attempted clearance hitting Davies rebounding goalwards, Aftelak reacting sharply to save.

Katie Stancombe’s pace an outlet for St Ives if they can get the ball out to her, on the left turns infield allowed to travel with the ball, it’s Rouse who gets back on her sliding in to tackle 20 yards out. Up the other end Georgia Stancombe lunging into tackle Davies 20 yards out as she shapes to shoot. Jefferson fouled top of the circle a free-kick for St Ives played long up into the area, Markwell not put off with Jefferson chasing in on the ball catching cleanly.

Seymour-Shove with a rash challenge catching Fox on the back of her achilles, presenting Cambridge with a free-kick to the right some 25 yards out. Griffin over the ball. Put into the box claimed by Aftelak. Closing in on the final 15 minutes, Cambridge strong in the 2nd half but yet to break down a resilient St Ives defence. Mitchell on the left side moving inside to cross whipping the ball in Fox her target, Georgia Stancombe going with her to intercept and clear for St Ives. Fox then sending a header over the bar as Emmings plays a cross in from the left side.

Mosley pushing Davies wide as she bursts on down the right gets to the by-line her cross drifting behind into the side netting. Otten with a strong header off a St Ives goal kick the ball with Davies on the right wins her side a corner. Long across the face of goal cleared falls to Stojko-Down 25 yards out left smashes a shot goalwards, takes a deflection on its way over. A pause in play with a St Ives player needing treatment. The corner from the right Emming’s leaping central can’t quite get there the ball cleared at the far post. Stojko-Down linking wit h Otten and Griffin central the ball fed forwards cut out by Hicks.

Into the final 10 minutes, Cambridge making a change bringing on Libby Fraser for Emmings on the left. Otten winning the ball in midfield out to the right Mitchell with Davies the shot on the angle put behind. Fox seeing the ball into her feet back to goal 20 out has support with Otten advancing she spreads play to the left Fraser with Mitchell, Flack tackling the ball out for a throw. Davies attacking right to the by-line winning a corner off Mosley. Mosley then clears at the near post as the corner is swung in.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell (photo credit Ben Phillips)

The clock is ticking down, St Ives are absorbing alot of pressure can’t get the ball out off there half as Cambridge press hard, can they hold on, take it to the lottery of a penalty shootout? Mosley outnumbered on the left as Fox moves out to help Davies with Griffin getting up the pitch does well to get a challenge in halt progress with a throw. Defended a rare opportunity to break with Katie Stancombe in the clear on the left, Rouse though covers the ground well to slide in with the tackle. Niamh Day coming on in the closing minutes for Cambridge replacing Davies the game entering stoppage time 4 minutes to be played.

GOAL! Stojko-Down playing the ball on down the left for Mitchell deep her touch seeing her shift inside run into the area wide of goal no one from St Ives can get near her as she strikes the ball with her right foot a fantastic hit rifled home across the keeper into the corner of the goal! 1-0. One of those instances where you see the attack building and know the attacker is going to score.

Laura Mitchell congratulated after her scoring in the 91st minute (photo credit Ben Phillips)

The St Ives defence breached at last in stoppage time a valiant effort, Cambridge have been on top throughout the 2nd half finally have the goal. Little time left and St Ives have given it there all Katie Stancombe in space on the left can’t get a cross into the area. Cambridge with time to mount one last attack Fox put in behind on the right taking the ball to the by-line whipping in a cross that his cut out at the near post.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 St Ives Town Ladies

The final whistle blows and Cambridge celebrate as they win the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup. Laura Mitchell with the unstoppable strike in the 91st minute. Late heartbreak for St Ives who gave everything coming within minutes of taking their higher league opponents to a penalty shootout. Can rightly be proud of their performance was a valiant effort ran out of steam in the 2nd half absorbing alot of Cambridge pressure as their opponents adjusted things at half-time dominating the 2nd half despite not finding the all important winning goal until the end.

Women’s Football East – -Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several great performances all over the pitch from players on both sides. Credit to the whole of the St Ives defence along with Sarah Mosley who did a fine job slotting into left back after Smith’s injury. Georgia Stancombe with a number of committed tackles throughout. For Cambridge, captain Gisela Otten was strong in the middle especially 2nd half winning the ball back on numerous ocassions St Ives unable to get out because of it. Laura Mitchell with the all important winning goal with a number of great attacking runs throughout aswell as Abi Davies on the right. The award ere though as it did on the night goes to St Ives goalkeeper Sarah Aftelak with some great saves and good positioning made sure her team were in the game right till the end.

A valiant effort from St Ives Town Ladies (photo credit Tom Alfuth)

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup

Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup winners, Cambridge United WFC (photo credit Ben Phillips)

The first of two mid-week finals completed a trip down to Essex on the heels of this one. 214 in attendance in what was a nail biting final no where near as one sided as some had predicted. Credit to St Ives for that smiles on their faces at the end despite the lose knowing they had given it their all. My thanks to everyone at Hunts FA for their help aswell as both clubs for their assistance with the team details and Ben Phillips for allowing me to use some of his pictures in the report.