Category Archives: Suffolk Women’s Division

The Round-Up – Suffolk 22/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 22nd September

Suffolk Women’s Division 

The last one of the week the latest league action from the Suffolk Women’s Division, plenty of goals scored once again two sides topping the table with 4 wins from 4 to open the season with contrasting results.

Needham Market Women have assembled a strong squad not only for their senior sides but too for their new Reserves side who have hit the ground running in the Suffolk Women’s Division scoring plenty of goals 60 now from just 4 games played. A huge scoreline racked up at the weekend at home to University of Suffolk Women playing their first game of the season. 28-0 is eye watering by anyone’s standards, Needham Market in form especially striker Lois Balfour 9 already this season, has 19 now! Scoring 10 herself at the weekend. Hat-tricks too for captain Amy Trenter, Katie Moore and Maria Smith. Braces scored by four more players Hannah Cobbold, Ashleigh Goddard, Milly Carter and player manger Freya Louis with Amber Leeks also getting her name on the scoresheet.

 An eye watering scoreline and not to rain on Needham Market’s parade one you don’t want to see but all results deserve some coverage. The Suffolk Women’s Division in a period of expansion great to see but these results will happen now and again. A plus 58 goal difference already for Needham Market already. A brutal start to the season for University of Suffolk Women have no details on their line-up or numbers, results you hope will only get better from here. 

In contrast Brettvale Ladies were playing their first game of the season this weekend despite having 9 points already on the board awarded home and away wins against opponents in their scheduled opening games. Keen to get going at last have strengthened ahead of the new season were away to Alresford Colne Rangers who had made a good start to the season themselves winning their opening 3 matches. Abbie Fisher making her Brettvale debut celebrating the occasion by scoring a hat-trick. Tarnya McKew making a huge impact coming in last season with her goal scoring ability beginning with a brace. A brace to for Claire Turnbull with Amie Chippendale also marking her Brettvale debut with a goal in an 8-1 win. 

Three wins from three at the start of the season see newly formed Burt Town Ladies up to 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division. The bulk of the squad made up of the former Walsham Le Willows squad they were up against Brantham Athletic Ladies at home this Sunday the pair sharing a 7 goal thriller all square at 2-2 at half-time with Bury coming out on top to edge the game 4-3 to keep their 100% record intact. Julie Brind scoring a brace for Bury Town, Mia Bambury also on target for a goal along with Zoe Klimcke, great to see her back amongst the goals after suffering a nasty knee injury last season. 

Henley Athletic Ladies forfeiting their opening two league games began their season last weekend with a 3-1 win over fellow newcomers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. Made it back to back league wins this weekend away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Enya Moore making her debut for Henley Athletic scoring a hat-trick, first goals of the season too for Shorolla Allen scoring a brace. Amy Gilson on target firing in a goal along with Emma Long scoring on her Henley Athletic debut. A 7-1 win for the visitors Charlotte Fayers scoring for Chantry Grasshoppers her first of the season.

Joining Henley Athletic on 6 points in 5th spot are Woodbridge Town Ladies winning their 2nd 3 point haul of the season the previous coming from a home win ironically enough against Henley. A 2-1 loss on the opening day were away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies this Sunday in the league. Taking a 2-0 lead into half-time a 3rd goal added in the 2nd half saw the game won 3-0. Last seasons top scorer Jenna Liverpool netting a brace to open her account for the season. Rachael Haward also finding the back of the net for her first of the season for Woodbridge.

Elsewhere in the Suffolk Women’s Division there were first wins of the season for Brightlingsea Regent Ladies and Holland Ladies. The former at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies on Sunday. A 6-3 loss to Brantham Athletic on the opening day followed by a forfeited game Brightlingsea found the back of the net for 6 goals to win the 3 points at the weekend. A strong first half seeing Hannah Goldsmith score a hat-trick with Paige Knight also scoring to see the hosts 4-0 up. Knight scoring her 2nd early in the 2nd half would go on to score a hat-trick herself albeit one for the opposition credited with an own goal. Lucy Tilbury adding a sixth goal in the final 5 minutes for Brightlingsea as they collected their first 3 points of the season.

  A single goal winning the game for Holland Ladies enough though for them to win their first ever game in the Suffolk Women’s Division since joining in the summer. The former FC Clacton Ladies side way to Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Jasmine Cox amongst the goals wherever she had played on target to score her first of the season for Holland and win them their first 3 points.

 

 

The Round-Up – Suffolk 15/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th September

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

The 2019/20 County Cup competition kicked off in Suffolk this Sunday with 5 ties taking place in the 1st Round. Some county cup competition seeded others not across the country. Suffolk one of those that don’t. That saw current holders Ipswich Town Women drawn out of the hat to play at home to former finalists AFC Sudbury Ladies. Ipswich with a stranglehold on the county cup in recent seasons and with a new crop of U21 talent breaking into the senior sides no sign they are about to give it up. This a new look AFC Sudbury side a young squad going forwards. Sudbury taking an early lead in the match going 1-0 up, Ipswich straight back at them to level the scores inside 5 minutes with Sophie Welton through to make it 1-1. Ipswich going on to take the lead in the 18th minute from an Amanda Crump corner a powerful header from Paige Wakefield on her birthday to make it 2-1. The captain making it 3-1 5 minutes later as Crump lobbed the keeper from outside the box. Sudbury coming back to 3-2 then a poor goal kick intercepted leading to the goal.

  All action with not even half an hour played Amy-Leigh Barrett shooting into the far corner to score her 1st senior goal. Another youngster going to to claim her first goals for the club late in the first half with Zoe Barrett netting a 3 minute brace. Time for another goal before half-time with Abrehart scoring her 2nd of the game to see Ipswich 7-2 up at the break. Ipswich dominating towards the end of the 1st half continued where they left of in the 2nd, Lindsey Cooper heading home from a Crump corner on 53 minutes, Crump the unleashing a thunderbolt from distance to make it 9-2. Stoppage time seeing a further two goals added, Wakefield with her 2nd of the match, the final word from Crump completing her hat-trick.

  Needham Market Women reached the County Cup final in their debut season last tie out and will be aiming to achieve the same goal this season. Strengthening the squad as they begin life in ERWFL Division One North were at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies in the 1st Round of the competition on Sunday. The hosts leading 2-0 at half-time thanks to a brace from Lina Nagib. Defender Megan Stock heading home to put Needham Market 3-0 up 10 minutes into the 2nd half. On the hour new signing Jodie Sharp found the back of the net for her first Needham Market goal. Laura Brame also joining in the close season fouled inside the box, up to take the spot kick herself her 1st goal will have to wait as she saw her effort saved. Annie Northwood getting in on the goal scoring with 15 minutes left make it 5-0. Woodbridge capitalising from a scramble from a corner to get themselves a goal. Northwood making it 6-1 with her 2nd of the game to see Needham Market safely through to the next round.

  Elsewhere in the 1st Round their were convincing wins for Leiston St Margarets at home beating Chantry Grasshoppers 7-0. Whilst on the road AFC Kesgrave Ladies scored 6 without reply against Mildenhall Town Ladies. Bury Town Ladies are also through to the next round of the County Cup with a 3-0 away win against Waveney Ladies.

Suffolk Women’s Division

Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday with 3 sides making it a perfect start to the season winning 3 out of 3. Needham Market Women Reserves were at home hosting Holland Ladies, the Essex side making their debut in the league coming up against a side in form scoring plenty of goals too. Lois Balfour scoring a hat-trick for the 3rd successive match. Katie Moore also on target for a brace to see the game won 5-1. Holland’s first goal of the season scored by Lauren Bourne.

Three successive hat-tricks to start the season for Needham Market’s Lois Balfour

Also making a perfect start to the season are Alresford Colne Rangers. A good result this Sunday away to a side likely to be pushing for the top positions themselves Brantham Athletic Ladies. A narrow 1-0 lead for Alresford at half-time proving the difference as both sides netted 2 goals in the 2nd period. Alresford winning 3-2 with Vicky Hall, Danielle Leonard and Jasmine Warner celebrating goals. Lucy Elmes and Maddie Hubbard with the 2nd half strikes for Brantham.

Is a three way tie at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division with 3 sides all on 9 points although the side in 3rd have yet to kick a ball. Sure Brettvale Ladies would have preferred it to be different as it doesn’t help goal difference but have been awarded 2 home wins and 1 away against their opponents for their opening 3 fixtures.

A baptism of fire for new side Ramsey & Mistley Ladies in their opening two fixtures in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Heavy defeats against Needham Market Women Reserves and Bury Town Ladies. A more encouraging result this weekend despite losing, were at home taking on fellow newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies playing their first competitive match of the season after forfeiting their opening two fixtures. An evenly contested match Henley Athletic getting their noses in front, Ramsey & Mistley coming back to level the scores through a long range strike from Ashleigh Mean. Two late goals for the visitors seeing them secure their 1st 3 points of the season. Molly Curran, Amy Gilson and Megan Tucker all celebrating their first goal for Henley Athletic.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 08/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th September

Suffolk Women’s Division

The last one of the week but certainly not least, just because it’s the shortest this weekends action from the Suffolk Women’s Division beating the rest of the county leagues to it starting last weekend there were 3 fixtures played this Sunday with some eye watering scorelines.

   Needham Market Women starting up a new Reserves side this season began with and 11-1 win. Now I’ve had a chance to see the squads for both sides, there 1st team winning 9-1 in their opening fixture in the ERWFL Cup it’s safe to say Needham Market’s Reserve side will be strong in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies this Sunday racked up another huge win with 4 players going on to claim a hat-trick, Lois Balfour, Hannah Cobbold, Katie Moore and Abbie Wilkinson. Leading 7-0 at half-time went on to win 16-0 with Amy Trenter, Taylor May Cooke and Ashleigh Goddard also scoring.

  That though wasn’t the highest score of the weekend as Bury Town Ladies demolished newcomers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies… 22-0! A tough start to life for Ramsey & Mistley coming up against a very experienced side, Bury Town formerly Walsham Le Willows adding Kirsten Hutchings to their squad, she was on target for 4 goals alone along with Holly Turbill. Top scorer however goes to Julie Brind with a double hat-trick. Mia Bambury scoring a hat-trick with a brace each for Helen Cryer and Kirsty Pollard. Stacey Roper also scoring.

Just to prove close games do happen the final game of the weekend to bring you feature Alresford Colne Rangers at home to Leiston St Margarets both sides starting the season with a win two goals for Georgia Egner saw Alresford edge out their opponents 2-1 to collect the 3 points. Lucy Eagles scoring the goal for Leiston St Margarets.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 01/09/19

The Round-Up

Sun 1st September

Suffolk Women’s Division

One more Round-Up to bring you this week as the county leagues get underway, the rest kicking off their season next Sunday, Suffolk’s Women’s Division began this Sunday. 10 of the 14 sides competing this season in action. Was 15 but an 11th hour withdrawal from Coplestonians Ladies sees a readjusting of fixtures. League winners 4 seasons ago hope to see Coplestonians back at some point in the future. 

A thrilling title race last season with newcomers Needham Market Women pushing eventual champions East Bergholt United Ladies all the way both are promoted to the ERWFL this season. Needham Market creating a Reserves side one of 5 new names in the league, with Henley Athletic, Ramsey & Mistley also new. AFC Kesgrave are back in the league along with Bury Town formerly Walsham Le Willows. Holland Ladies formerly FC Clacton from Essex moving across the border. 

Two of the newcomers meeting on the opening day as Needham Market Women travelled to play Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. Needham Market having several familiar faces in their line-up having represented the club last season and that experience showed as they racked up a double figure scoreline to win their opening fixture. Lois Balfour and Hannah Cobbold both opening their accounts with a hat-trick apiece. Katie Moore was also on target with a brace with Gemma Moore, Megan Stock and Abbie Wilkinson all netting a goal in an 11-1 win. A tough beginning to life in the league for Ramsey & Mistley their goal scored by Dominique Merchant.

Also recording an opening day away win to start the season are Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Began their season at Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies who were giving debuts to 7 new players as they began their 2nd season in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Leiston St Margarets more established in the league winning the match 5-1 with Lucy Eagle netting a brace. Leanne Morphew and Justine Young also opening their accounts with a goal each an own goal adding a 5th goal. Lucy Robson getting her first goal for Chantry Grasshoppers.

Brantham Athletic Ladies will be amongst the title favourites this season they began their campaign at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. A close first half saw Merlin Watson put Brantham 1-0 up inside 15 minutes, Brightlingsea scoring in the 23rd minute an own goal plus another goal for Merlin in the 44th minute seeing Brantham 3-1 up the visitors pulling it back to 3-2 just before the half-time whistle. Better from Brantham 2nd half as Danielle Harvey opened her account to make it 4-2 in the 54th minute. Rebecca Prime giving Brantham a 3 goal advantage scoring in the 64th minute. Brightlingsea getting it back to 5-3 with 10 minutes left Shannon Giles getting on the scoresheet in the last 5 minutes to see Brantham start the season with a 6-3 win. 

Rebecca Prime amongst the goalscorers for Brantham Athletic Ladies on the opening day.

Alresford Colne Rangers will be looking to push for the top positions in the Suffolk Women’s Division as they begin their 2nd season having moved from the Essex County league a year ago. At home for their first fixture were taking on AFC Kesgrave Ladies making a return to the league after a season’s absence. The visitors making a good start with Abigail Eley scoring. Alresford though coming back well to lead 3-1 at half-time a 4th goal added to secure the 3 points in the 2nd period. Rae Clancy, Georgia Egner, Jo Harvey and Tracey Lewis all getting their first goals of the campaign.

Woodbridge Town Ladies improved to finish strongly in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division last season, will be hoping to continue that form into the new season. Began this Sunday at home taking on Bury Town Ladies who have reformed the squad having been Walsham Le Willows last season will be strong themselves and so it proved in a close game as the visitors edged out Woodbridge 2-1 to claim the 3 points.

  3 points to awarded to Brettvale Ladies a home win against league newcomers Henley Athletic.

 

The Round-Up – Suffolk 28/04/19

The Round-Up

Season End

Suffolk Women’s Division

A Round-Up on a Friday? What’s that all about? Well with it being a hectic start to the week the season in Suffolk finishing this Thursday evening I thought I’d wait and put it all into one final edition.

  Rewind the action to Wednesday 24th April, Needham Market Women having secured a 2nd placed finish in their debut season playing their last  league match of the campaign at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 lead for Needham market at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals 2nd half to end with a 7-0 victory. A fantastic first season for the club together achieving a runners-up finish pushing league winners East Bergholt United Ladies all the way, and 2 cup finals to look forwards too. Top scorer Francesca Rainbird scoring a hat-trick their were goals too for Isabel Chaplin, Nicola Henderson, Milly Carter an a first Needham market goal for Jemma Mortimer.

  Playing on Thursday evening Brantham Athletic Ladies were at home to Alresford Colne Rangers in their penultimate game of the season. A high scoring game between the sides had to settle for a share of the points scoring 3 goals each. Jodie Sharp, Sophie Crabtree & Shanice Leeks scoring for Brantham up to 3rd in the table, whilst Rae Clancy, Jo Harvey & Jasmine Warner scored the goals for 5th placed Alresford Colne Rangers in what would prove to be their final match of the season with Sunday’s opponents Coplestonians Ladies forfeiting the game.

  Onto Sunday, the final weekend of the season 3 matches played, with Woodbridge Town Ladies at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Thursday. A 7-0 win for Needham Market in midweek as they prepared for Tuesday’s Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final their opponents and league champions for a 2nd successive year were ending their league season away to Leiston St Margarets. Annie Northwood, East Bergholt’s leading goal scorer this season on target for a brace in the game whilst their was a goal a piece for Stacey Teager, Cara Savage and Pippa King in a 5-1 win, East Bergholt impressive in the defence of their title losing just the one game. Looking to make it a 2nd successive league & cup double playing again on Tuesday against Needham Market in the League Cup Final.

  Brantham Athletic Ladies away to Walsham Le Willows Ladies in their final game of the season getting the points they needed to be assured of a 3rd placed finish winning the game 2-0 thanks to goals from Lucy Dunnett and Lucy Elmes.

  An impressive 2nd half to the season for newcomers Brettvale Ladies saw them end on a high with a crushing home win over bottom side University of Suffolk Women in their final game of the season. Tarnya McKew very much a part of their improved results the experienced striker scoring 8 goals in the match taking her to 27 goals from just 11 appearances. Brettvale winning the game 15-1 the rest of their goals spread out with Claire Turnbull, Danielle Lynch, Shaan Hayre, Georgia Lindon, Lucy Brown & Iris Gunnarsdottir all on the scoresheet along with Clara Gosling with her first goal for the club.

  A win for Brantham on Sunday meaning they could not be caught by 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies another new comer to the league this season having an improved 2nd half to the campaign picking up some great results to climb up the table, as high as 3rd at one point are the reason I’ve kept this Round-Up till the end of the week as they were playing their final game of the season last evening at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Jenna Liverpool getting the goals for Woodbridge the clubs top scorer finding the back of the net for 2 more goals to end on 21 for the season with Kiera Hines also scoring in a 3-1 win to end the season, great form too with 9 wins from their last 10 league games. Leiston St Margarets Ladies finishing the season with 3 straight defeats nevertheless finish in 6th.

 Before Woodbridge & Leiston St Margarets brought the curtain down on the 2018/19 Suffolk Women’s Division season their was the League Cup to be decided Women’s Football East was their and below is the full report from the game. A larger league this campaign great to see the game growing within Suffolk the new sides all making an impact and will be interesting to see how they progress in the new season.

Tuesday 30th April

Suffolk Women’s League Cup

Needham Market Women v East Bergholt United Ladies

A 2nd final in 3 days with a trip down to Suffolk for their League Cup Final to be contested by league newcomers Needham Market Women and league champions and current holders of the cup East Bergholt United Ladies.

 The Suffolk Women’s Division seeing growth this season with a host of new sides joining the league 12 in total. Needham Market Women pushing East Bergholt all the way in the title race.

A great debut season for Needham Market Women coming together in the summer, the squad building several names familiar having been part of Bacton United Ladies and Coplestonians Ladies. Hit the ground running winning their opening 5 league games matching East Bergholt’s 100% winning start, their 1st league defeat of the season at home to East Bergholt losing narrowly 3-2 Needham market nevertheless bounced back well returning the compliment with a 3-0 win against East Bergholt at the start of March that though East Bergholt’s only defeat, Needham Market losing 3 in total clinching runner-up spot, more success too in the cup competitions reaching both the finals of the League and County Cup to be played on Tues 7th May at Portman Road against Ipswich Town Women. Plenty of goals within the squad over 120 scored Francesca Rainbird top scorer with 33 goals.

  East Bergholt United Ladies completing the double last season unbeaten that year on their way to the title. Their squad a blend of experience and youth players learning their game opted for another season season in Suffolk to further player development rather than move up to the regional league above. Just that one loss to Needham Market blotting their league record this season the other 21 games won. Have applied to the ERWFL for promotion along with Needham Market themselves. Annie Northwood, East Bergholt’s top scorer with 40 goals to her name this season. Both sides growing within the county which ultimately is great for the game with one side dominating for so long.

Road to the Final

 Big away wins for both sides in the opening round of the League Cup, Needham Market scoring 8 without reply against Brettvale Ladies. East Bergholt with over twice that total winning 19-0 against University of Suffolk Women.

Needham Market at home in the quarter finals of the competition taking on Leiston St Margarets Ladies a 5-1 win seeing them into the last 4. East Bergholt progressing without kicking a ball awarded the away win over drawn opponents Woodbridge Town Ladies.

 A strong line-up for the semi-finals of the League Cup contested by the top 4 sides in the league itself, Needham Market away to Alresford Colne Rangers, scoring twice Needham Market secured victory and a cup final appearance in their first season together. East Bergholt away to local rivals Brantham Athletic Ladies. Always a competitive game between the two sides East Bergholt came out on top to win the game 3-1 to reach a 2nd successive League Cup final.

  This evening’s final taking place at Hadleigh United FC. Traffic from Swaffham through Thetford and Bury St Edmund slow going arrived later than I like but nevertheless is a picturesque part of the county. The main carpark already full the gates to the overflow carpark open the field behind the stadium filling up rapidly. A good number already there, the bar open, hot food and drinks available, a small stand filling on the other side of the pitch. A warm evening dry and clear.

Needham Market Women starting – Amber Leeks, Niamh Thomas, Megan Stock (C), Amy Dunn, Maria Smith, Elysia Young, Nicola Henderson, Amber Sparkes, Milly Carter, Francesca Rainbird & Lois Balfour. Subs – Jemma Mortimer, Josie Haward, Amy Trenter, Emily Steward & Jemma Wessels

 East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Jess Quinsee, Deben Faiers (C), Georgia Lockerbie, Millie Wilding, Charlotte McGrath, Jess Clarke Cara Savage, Stacey Teager & Annie Northwood. Subs – Katie Bruce, Pippa King, Charlotte Warren, Ellie Nitsche & Isla Romer-Lee.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A good crowd building prior to kick-off the overflow carpark filling up it’s Needham Market to get this season’s League Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing an all red kit with East Bergholt wearing green coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Pressing the ball straight away East Bergholt make ground on the left flank winning a couple of throws the final ball played long into the seen out for a goal kick by Needham Market captain Megan Stock. East Bergholt with the ball inside Needham Market’s half early on the ball played back to centre back Georgia Lockerbie she plays it long into the area safely claimed by Needham Market goalkeeper, Amber Leeks.

   Needham Market come left Francesca Rainbird driving on with the ball has support inside from Milly Carter 25 yards out she in turn plays it on central to striker Lois Balfour gets a shot away the ball racing low wide past the right post. Charlotte McGrath getting on the ball in the middle for East Bergholt passes to Cara Savage ahead of her the ball played into striker Stacey Teager she turns in behind her touch a little heavy, a race for it with the Needham market defence, Leeks coming for it but with Teager on her shoulder Amy Dunn clears it for a throw out left.

  Rainbird and Carter looking to get on up the left support from full back Niamh Thomas, Harriet Meers slowing down progress for East Bergholt. Keeping possession Needham market win a free-kick out wide 25 yards out the ball whipped in towards the near post dipping, goalkeeper Kimberly Lynch meeting it on the volley to launch clear of her area. Handball spotted in the middle a free-kick given to East Bergholt the ball put forwards runners after it the ball claimed by Leeks. Rainbird a threat from the start for Needham market on the left picking the ball up and prepared to take players on getting up the line attempts to play the pass inside to Balfour outside the box, Deben Faiers captaining East Bergholt with the interception at the back. 

  Savage right playing the ball forwards Annie Northwood giving chase in behind, Leeks racing out of her area gets to the ball first. Millie Wilding central for East Bergholt out to Northwood making a run into the left channel into the box checks inside before sending a shot over. East Bergholt have the ball left a throw in leading to a cross, Stock winning it at the back for Needham Market. 

  GOAL! East Bergholt making a promising start are hit on the counter Needham Market breaking to open the scoring in the 12th minute. Faiers having played the ball up to Teager in attack Needham Market deal with the bouncing ball putting it on for Rainbird breaking on the left with Balfour coming inside Rainbird shoots from 25 yards out a low ball heading towards goal, Lynch leaving the ball thinking it’s going wide of the near post, to her dismay it creeps inside the post to see Needham Market take the lead 1-0.

Francesca Rainbird with the opening goal for Needham Market Women

East Bergholt with a free-kick wide left inside the Needham Market half Jess Clarke to play it on into the area, Leeks getting her gloves on the ball a split second before being clattered into, down Needham Market’s defence are back quickly to scramble it away. Nicola Henderson combining with Balfour as the pair enter the East Bergholt half the through ball forwards finding Rainbird running clear the flag up against her having gone too early, close mind. 

  Again East Bergholt have a free-kick wide left similar to the previous Clarke lifting the ball long to the far post defended headed out of the area straight to McGrath a touch to set herself then let’s fly with a shot from 20 yards out, safely held by Leeks. Rainbird is the outlet for Needham Market looking to get the ball out left whenever they have possession, a pacy dribbler of the ball her run taking her into the area forcing East Bergholt to concede the corner. Played in from the left central inside the six yard box Lynch up well to get a glove up to clear the danger. Needham Market giving away several free-kicks the East Bergholt bench complaining. 

  East Bergholt getting a corner on the right the deliver dropping near post met turned goalwards Leeks with a reactive save stopping the ball on the line with her legs deflecting it back out to the left put back in the keeper catching it this time. Needham Market make the first change of the game Carter the player coming off on comes Josie Haward. East Bergholt get bodies forwards left a cross delivered into the box, Stock meeting it to clear, Wilding looking to reclaim it outside the box pushed over a free-kick. 20 yards out left of the D Wilding on it goes for the shot over the bar. 

  The ball played on up the right by Amber Sparkes, Balfour and Faiers in a race for it, Lynch out well to the right corner of her area to slide in claim the ball. A corner won on the right East Bergholt bring players forwards the 1st ball in defended near post back with east Bergholt on the right flank the 2nd ball in attacked by Teager and Lockerbie near post the ball headed over the bar. East Bergholt with their first switch of the game Katie Bruce on fr Savage. Build up play on the left McGrath over to support Clarke, Jess Quinsee bombing forwards from full back, Needham Market preventing a cross.

  Needham Market with a free-kick on the left played into the box, McGrath back defending heading the ball out of the area drops straight to Rainbird positioned top of the D, her shot whistling over the crossbar. Half an hour played a 2nd change for East Bergholt Wilding the player off on comes Charlotte Warren. Faiers and Lockerbie winning the ball as Needham Market look to get Balfour away in behind, Rainbird and Sparkes getting on up the wings. Another free-kick awarded Faiers adjudged to have brought down Balfour 30 yards out looked a tangle of legs. Balfour on the set-piece a great ball in on target, Lynch with a terrific save the merest of touches to tip the ball onto the bar and away behind for the corner. Lynch up at her back post making a confident claim from the corner.

Kimberly Lynch making the save

  Northwood with a shot 25 yards out left sends it wide across the box. Elysia Young putting the ball on for Rainbird to chase into the box keeping it in play Lockerbie gets across to tackle. Young into an advanced position supporting Rainbird attacking left the pass squared to Young looks to play Balfour into the box, Faiers reading it cutting the ball out for East Bergholt. 

 GOAL! Less than five minutes of the 1st half left to play East Bergholt break away to score the equaliser, McGrath getting hold of the ball on halfway with a fantastic ball forwards, the Needham Market defence static as Northwood breaks in behind no flag runs on into the box one on one with the keeper Leeks staying big, Northwood putting the ball wide of her left to find the back of the net 1-1.

  Rainbird full of running making a nuisance of herself pressing the east Bergholt defence 25 yards out the ball popping loose to Young getting forwards she sees a shot drop wide of the mark. Ellie Nitsche entering the game late in the first half for East Bergholt as they press the attack late on. The ball played right sees Leeks beaten as she comes for it the ball cleared away by the back tracking defence, light fading fast the half-time whistle blows. All square at the break.

Half-time Needham Market Women 1-1 East Bergholt United Ladies

  An entertaining first half a vocal crowd spurring both sides on the best attendance I’ve seen for a Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final, 400 plus. East Bergholt with the early pressure, Needham Market though with the early goal however. Working hard in defence East Bergholt getting more players forwards when they attack, Rainbird a threat on the left wing looking to create something more often than not. East Bergholt drawing level late in the first half. set up perfectly for the 2nd period, the lights on now.

 Needham Market with a change at the start of the 2nd half Emily Steward on for Balfour in attack. East Bergholt to get the 2nd half underway. Straight on the attack the ball pushed on through the middle Nitsche looking to race away in behind the Needham Market centre backs close Maria Smith putting in the challenge the ball scrambled away. East Bergholt pressing high the ball won inside the final 3rd lifted into the area right side six yards out Stock grappling with Teager to win the ball comes straight to Nitsche outside the box a shot struck back in pace and power smashes against the crossbar!

GOAL! East Bergholt capitalising on their fast start to the 2nd half the ball played in through the middle sees Nitsche burst clear of the defence this time carrying it into the area she slot a shot past the keeper to put East Bergholt into the lead. 2-1.

A sluggish start to the 2nd half from Needham market not switched on, Sparkes looking to get an attack going on the right, Quinsee in to make the challenge a corner conceded. Lockerbie defending the ball put in to the near post area. Young with the ball at her feet 20 yards out sees a shot charged down. A corner won for Needham Market on the left the ball defended near post back with the taker up the line top of the area rolled inside to Henderson she has a go driving a shot wide.

Needham Market’s Nicola Henderson

East Bergholt get Teager away left side to attack the box, Leeks out to meet her sliding in the ball not claimed Teager spotting Nitsche free 25 yards out central drags a shot wide. East Bergholt keeping a closer watch on Rainbird the ball not getting to her as much as it did in the first half. Clarke with Bruce and McGrath closing the ball down well further up the pitch. Lynch confident as she rushes out to the right of her box to slide in a claim the ball with Sparkes attacking.

East Bergholt United Ladies, Charlotte McGrath

Nitsche lively in attack causing Needham Market a few problems away on the right sends a ball into Teager top of the area catching it first time deflects it towards goal, straight at Leeks. Changes for both sides Carter back on for Needham Market. Isla Romer-Lee on for East Bergholt.  Dunn defending an East Bergholt free-kick played into the box. A fluid attacking move from East Bergholt as they come very close to adding a 3rd goal. Starting with McGrath central on to Nitsche linking with Teager 25 yards out the ball out to Romer-Lee int space right lays the ball back into the middle for McGrath driving on into the box she shoots putting the ball across the keeper runs narrowly wide of the post.

Romer-Lee cutting inside from the right passing to Nitsche she tries to pick out Teager at the far post, Thomas defending for Needham Market. McGrath with another storming midfield run into the box, Dunn shielding the ball out for the goal kick. An injury blow for Needham Market as Stock going up to win an aerial challenge, lands awkwardly appearing to twist her knee, clearly in alot of pain the trainer on straight away play stopped as she requires lengthy treatment, wearing a knee brace is in alot of pain. Up gingerly cannot continue Jemma Mortimer heading on to take her place in the back line. 

  A double change for East Bergholt, Wilding returning to the field along with Pippa King on for Teager. Carter linking with Rainbird as they get forwards on the left the latter crossing to Steward out towards the far post she looks to cushion it down for Carter central, the defence intercepting and getting it away for East Bergholt. King with the ball attacking left high into the box for Nitsche 8 yards out connects with the ball not enough on it to beat Leeks in goal. East Bergholt with alot more of the attack 2nd half, Needham Market pushed back defending just the one goal in it still. 

  Savage back on for East Bergholt, Jemma Wessels on in place of Carter for Needham Market. The final entering the last 10 minutes. A free-kick won on the left as Rainbird is brought down outside the area, Wessels on it plays the ball long to the far post Lynch up well reaching up to make the claim caught lands heavily but okay. East Bergholt counter attack Romer-Lee clear on the right a Needham Market commit players forwards busting into the area she puts the ball low across the keeper her shot coming back off the base of the post.

  Amy Trenter on for Needham Market. East Bergholt strong late on winning the midfield battle McGrath breaking it on. Northwood back on for Nitsche as Needham Market are forced back late on, Smith tackling to regain possession inside her box. Rainbird getting away left into the corner playing a cross into the area Faiers back in her six yard box winning the header. The final whistle blows and East Bergholt celebrate winning the League Cup and completing the double for a 2nd successive season.

Full time Needham Market Women 2-1 East Bergholt United Ladies

   An entertaining final watched by a passionate and supportive crowd a good atmosphere and close result between the sides. All square after the 1st half, East Bergholt had much more of the attack in the 2nd period pressing the ball higher and preventing the ball getting into Needham Markets attacking players scoring early in the 2nd half a 3rd goal would have made thing’s more comfortable but it din’t come, Needham Market though unable to find a clinical goal scoring chance up the other end. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances of note, firstly for Needham Market, Francesca Rainbird was a constant threat especially in the first half. Megan Stock captain marshalling her defence well making some important tackles. For East Bergholt Ellie Nitsche was a danger in attack pacy with great movement and positional sense. The award though goes to East Bergholt’s Charlotte McGrath the midfield superb throughout the game winning the ball centrally, setting up attacks some fantastic runs forwards.

East Bergholt United Ladies, 2018/19 Suffolk Women’s League Cup winners (picture East Bergholt United Ladies)

  Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on this evenings success and completing the double double.

  Arriving late at the ground I didn’t feel prepared but the help I got from both sides plus Mandy from the Suffolk Girls & Women’s Football league plus a cheeseburger put me at ease, a busy start to the week 2 finals in 3 days both thoroughly enjoyable however, tired now but next up it’s 4 finals in 4 days! As daunting as that sounds I’m really looking forwards to it. Thanks to all for their help this evening. 

The Round-Up – Suffolk 14/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 14th April

Suffolk Women’s Division

East Bergholt United Ladies are the Champions of Suffolk for a 2nd successive season winning back to back titles. Not quite the way they would have wanted to as the 3 points were awarded after opponents Walsham Le Willow Ladies forfeited their game at the weekend. Nonetheless a fantastic achievement defending their title with a long winning streak losing just the once to 2nd placed Needham Market Women. The aim now to make it a back to back league and cup double as they look to defend the league Cup on Tues August 30th at Hadleigh FC against Needham Market Women.

  Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on this season’s league title.

  Needham Market Women newly formed this season pushing East Bergholt all the way to ensure they didn’t run away with things at the top of the table a runners-up finish confirmed and they are also in the finals of both the League Cup and County Cup two great games to look forwards too. This Sunday they were at home taking on another newcomer Brettvale Ladies who have improved as the season has gone on and things are looking positive for next season. This Sunday however they were soundly beaten by Needham Market who are way out in front in terms of goals this scored in the league 114 to date 5 of those added against Brettvale. Francesca Rainbird top scorer with another goal taking her tally to 29. Amber Sparks up to 20 for the season also on the scoresheet. Abbie Wilkinson, Jemma Wessels and Nicola Anderson also getting their name on the scoresheet.

   Another new side this season enjoying a successful campaign are Woodbridge Town Ladies climb up to 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division table with a narrow 2-1 win at home against Alresford Colne Rangers. Goals for Kimberly Edwards and a 19th of the season for top scorer Jenna Liverpool securing the 3 points, strong in 2019 with just 2 defeats from 12 played. Jo Harvey scoring the goal for Alresford.

   Leiston St Margarets Ladies are looking good now to secure a top half finish in the Suffolk Women’s Division as they  like Woodbridge enjoy a strong 2nd half to the season again just 2 defeats from 10 played so far this calendar year. Were at home this Sunday taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies and despite Charlotte Archer scoring her 12th goal of the season for the visitors goals from Sarah Cooper and Justine Young saw Leiston St Margarets win the game 2-1.

  Coplestonians Ladies were away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this Sunday and despite being short on numbers held a narrow lead at the break. A different story 2nd half as Coplestonians piled on the goals to win the 3 points with a 9-2 victory. Top sorer Abigail Eley scoring 4 of those goals taking her to 14 for the season. A hat-trick too for Sophie Maul with Chloe York an Lottie Aldous also getting a goal a piece.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 07/04/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th April

Suffolk Women’s Division

Annie Northwood was on target for all 4 goals in East Bergholt United Ladies 4-1 win away to Brettvale Ladies this Sunday to see them retain their 6 point lead at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Just 2 games left to play a point is all that is needed to ensure them the league title. Northwood scoring an impressive 37 goals now for the season. Completing a first half hat-trick to put East Bergholt in full control of the game adding a 4th 2nd half. Tarnya McKew with the strike from Brettvale. 

East Bergholt have been pushed all the way to the end by Needham Market Women enjoying a fantastic debut season in women’s football, the only side to beat East Bergholt in the league, a sic point gap are guaranteed runners-up spot at the least 11 points clear of 3rd placed Brantham Athletic now who have 3 left to play. That gap extended away to Brantham this Sunday. A big game Needham Market holding a slender 1 goal advantage at half-time. Brantham scoring 2 goals in the 2nd half, Needham Market scoring plenty of goals themselves this season adding a further 4 to win the game 5-2. Francesca Rainbird top scorer fast closing in on 30 goals for the season a brace moving her closer on 28. Amber Sparkes to celebrating a brace has 19 for the season. Eboni-mae Shepherd with the other goal her 3rd of the season. 

Woodbridge Town Ladies are another new name this season enjoying a good campaign up into 4th in the table lay just 2 points off 3rd placed Brantham now the 3 points won away from home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. The visitors leading 2-0 at half-time went on to secure the win scoring a 3rd goal in the 2nd half. Top scorer, Jenna Liverpool with a brace moves onto 18 goals for the season. Kerry Scott also on the scoresheet scoring her first goal for Woodbridge.

  A tussle in the middle of the table 6th placed Walsham Le Willow Ladies at home to 7th placed Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division victory for the away side seeing the pair swap places in the table. Norma Locker and Olivia Hodges scoring for Walsham Le Willows. Sarah Cooper finding the back of the net for a brace for Leiston St Margarets her 6th & 7th goals of the season with a goal each for Leanne Morphew & Leanne Fairweather in a 4-2 victory.

  Victory too on Sunday for Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies in their bottom of the table clash at home to University of Suffolk Women. A brace for Charlotte Archer taking her to 11 for the season along a brace from Madeleine Fairbrother her first goals for Chantry Grasshoppers and a goal for Bernice Corney seeing the hosts win 5-1 against the bottom side. 

The Round-Up – The Counties 31/03/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 31st March

County League Round-Up

 A reduced fixture list across the county leagues in the East this weekend, Sunday being Mother’s Day just 15 games played across the whole of the region felt it easiest to place all the games in one edition of The Round-Up. A handful of games in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex & Beds & Herts.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Beginning in Norfolk, two matches played in Division One on Sunday. League Champions, Thorpe United Ladies playing their last game of the campaign away to Bungay Town Ladies. 12 wins and a single defeat in the 13 games played to date a successful league campaign for Thorpe bringing a number of youth players into the squad this season, have performed well the club running away with the leagues, injuries stretching them towards the end were looking to end on a high against a Bungay side starting to move in the right direction themselves after a difficult start to the season. Always competitive between the two a heavy defeat for Thorpe at Bungay last season, a better start to the game scoring twice to lead the game 2-0 at half-time. A competitive 2nd half saw Bungay fight back scoring 3 goals, Thorpe responding adding a further two goals to win the game 4-3. Captain Rebekah Lake finishing well clear as top scorer for Thorpe a goal on Sunday taking her to 18. Midfielder Laura Hedtke also into double figures for the season with a goal   finishes on 11. Victoria McNorton and Millie Cursons also on the scoresheet. Selina Rowland, Grace Storey and Jody Wells getting the Bungay goals. 

Gorleston Ladies up to 3rd in the Division One table have 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies in their sights, were at home this Sunday taking on 4th placed Sprowston Athletic Ladies. A close game a goal each for Sophie Gillett and Bethany Turner enough to win the game for Gorleston despite a goal from Kate Morris for Sprowston Athletic the hosts winning 2-1 move to within a point of Sprowston Ladies with a game in hand.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

  A first defeat in the league in women’s football for Norfolk Women’s Division Two leaders, Taverham United Women last Sunday losing 3-0 at home to in form Tavern Ladies. Taverham bouncing back straight away with an away win against bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this Sunday in the only match taking place in the division. The scores close at half-time with Taverham holding a narrow 1-0 advantage. The visitors getting the better of the 2nd half despite Bulldogs getting a goal themselves Taverham going on to score 3 more to win the game 4-1 to go 9 points clear at the top of the table, Hannah Artis bagging herself a hat-trick in the game along with a goal for top scorer Rebecca Sutton who now has 35 goals for the season.

Suffolk Women’s Division

Three league games played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday, East Bergholt United Ladies keeping their 6 point lead at the top of the table with a home win in a high scoring match with 3rd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies. The visitors scoring 3 goals, East Bergholt securing the 3 points hitting five in reply. Stacey Teager scoring a brace to move to 16 goals for the season. Another goal for Annie Northwood takes her to 33 for the campaign. Jessica Clark and Jessica Quinsee also scoring a goal a piece. 2nd placed Needham Market Women awarded the 3 points for a home win against Alresford Colne Rangers. 

   Brettvale Ladies keep up their good form in 2019 just the one defeat from 8 played. A point earned on the road this Sunday away to Leiston St Margaret Ladies. Pushing for a decent mid-table finish and a good platform to build on for next season. Tarnya McKew scoring her 18th goal for Brettvale since joining the game finishing 1-1.

 A winning end to the season for Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, their first season in women’s football coming to an end at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. The team continuing to develop haven’t always got the points they deserved, looking for a new manager to take their development further. 1-0 up at half-time Brightlingsea made sure of a winning finish adding a further 2 goals 2nd half to win the game 3-1. Paige Knight, Jessica Scott and Lucy Tilbury with her 1st of the season the goalscorers. Felicia Harris with her first Chantry Grasshoppers goal.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

 Two games in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. League Cup action or lack of seeing Harlow Town Ladies lose ground in the league a comfortable victory at home on this weekend saw them climb back up to 3rd in the table. Were taking on Silver End United Ladies, 2-0 up at half-time, Harlow scoring a further 2 in the 2nd period to clinch the 3 points. Top scorer Hannah Smith amongst the goals with her 23rd of the season, 17 goals too now for Ellie Nicholls also getting a goal. Lucy Edmeades with a goal too with Ellie Wallace another new name amongst the goal scorers for Harlow this season with her first goal in just her 2nd appearance.

  In the other game played on Sunday in the Essex Women’s Premier Division it was a 7 goal thriller between Corringham Cosmos and Southend United Ladies. Rebecca Gallagher getting hosts Corringham off to a great start scoring her 17th goal of the season in the opening minute. Southend getting back on level terms to see the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time. The visitors getting the better of the 2nd half a further 5 goals added to win the game 4-3. Michelle Sumpter on the hour and final minute for Corringham. Lily Halliday, Ria Toovey, Kate Wiseman and Lauren Johnson with the goals for Southend.

Essex Women’s Division One

One game taking place in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday with Chigwell Ladies at home to 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies. 46 goals now for Rayleigh Town captain Isabelle Wallings scoring a brace against Chigwell. Was Sunday’s top scorer however with a hat-trick for Holly Gash  who herself moves onto 22 goals for the season. Millie Arnold also on the scoresheet with a goal along with Sophie Rhodes scoring on her Rayleigh Town debut in a 7-0 victory.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

The top sides bunch up again in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with leaders Northwood Ladies not in action the chasing sides all picked up the 3 points to see just 4 points once again between the top 4. 3rd placed Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies awarded the home win over Sharnbrook, there were two matches played on Sunday.

 2nd placed St Albans Ladies closing to within a point of Northwood winning away to bottom side, Garston Ladies 2nd XI. A fantastic start for the visitors 2-0 up inside the opening 6 minutes. Michaela Johnson making it 1-0 with less than a minute played, Molly Slade doubling the lead. Garston doing well to keep St Albans adding further goals, just 3 minutes left on the clock, St Albans doing 3-0 up, Slade with her 2nd of the match in the 87th minute, a 4th goal added in the final minute with Ellen Salter finding the back of the net for her 15th goal of the season.

   A closer score for 4th placed Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires away to Sherrardswood Ladies on Sunday winning the 3 points with a 2-1 result to keep them right up with the league leaders in Division One.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

4 points from their remaining 2 league games will see Hitchin Belles win the Beds & Herts Division Two title. Move 7 points clear at the top with a comfortable home win over Evergreen Eagles on Sunday. Top scorer Katie White netting a hat-trick moves to 21 goals for the season. Amy Jack back amongst the goals with a brace to go to 18. With a brace to for Kiera How enjoying a good run in front of goal with 14 goals now for the season. Hitchin Belles winning the game 7-1. Sophie Kempsford on the scoresheet for Evergreen Eagles. Hitchin Town Ladies the side that can catch them with games in hand. Hitchin Belles last game of the season away to their local rivals.

2nd placed Letchworth Garden City Eagles ow title hopes dashed on Sunday as they lost away to 5th placed Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Captain Rebecca Freeman scoring twice as Evergreen continued their recent good form with a 4th straight league win to put them to within a point of 4th placed Royston Town Ladies Development with a game in hand.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Two games too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. With leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development not in action it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses to close the gap at the top back to 4 points. Were away to Stotfold Juniors Ladies. Giselle Randall continuing her excellent season in front of goal for the visitors scoring a hat-trick to take her onto 24 goals for the season. The winning score 4-0 with Kodi Meader also on the scoresheet with her 1st of the season. 

In the other game was 3rd versus 4th with Langford Ladies away to AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. A tight game between the sides goalless at half-time a single goal enough to win the points in the 2nd half, Kayleigh Humphries getting the goal the win taking Kempston Town & Bedford College back above Langford into 3rd place.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 24/03/19

The Round-Up 

Sunday 24th March

Suffolk Women’s Division

 A good weekend for East Bergholt United Ladies as they extended their lead at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division to 6 points with 4 games left to play on Sunday. Away this Sunday were taking on 4th placed Alresford Colne Rangers a strong performance from East Bergholt seeing the leading 2-0 at half-time with Annie Northwood firing in both goals, a further 3 scored in the 2nd period with Northwood having her name against them all to take her official goals tally to 32 for the season. Kirsty Belfall with the goal for Alresford. East Bergholt winning 5-1.

  Coupled with their win there was also a defeat at the weekend for title rivals Needham Market Women. Their own title ambitions taking a hit as they were beaten by a well organised Woodbridge Town Ladies side on Sunday. Jenna Liverpool with her 16th goal of the season scoring the only goal of the game for the hosts, Woodbridge climbing back up int 4th position in the Suffolk Women’s Division table.

 The Brantham Athletic Ladies squad plagued by a number of injuries recently battled hard at the weekend at home to Leiston St Margarets to earn the 3 points at home and see them 5 points clear in 3rd position in the Suffolk Women’s Division table. Pushed all the way to the final whistle by their opponents Brantham won the game 1-0 with Lucy Dunnett the goalscorer her 10th goal of the season.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Lucy Dunnett

 Coplestonians Ladies were away this Sunday in the league playing Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies, the hosts going into the half-time interval leading the game 1-0 thanks to a goal for top scorer Charlotte Archer her 9th of the season. Coplestonians fought back in the 2nd half getting back on level terms Ashley Bustos fresh from scoring her first goal for Coplestonians last Sunday netting a double this weekend with Felicity Cooper also getting on the scoresheet in a 3-1 win. 

  Brettvale Ladies are really benefiting from having an experienced goalscorer like Tarnya McKew in their squad a 4th straight win in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday the 3 points won away to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. McKew on target for a hat-trick in the match taking her goals tally since joining the club to 17 form just 7 appearances. Danielle Lynch also scoring her 1st goal since joining the club their were goals too for Sheryl Nokes and Georgina Lindon in a 6-1 away win.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 17/03/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 17th March

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

 Semi-final weekend for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup, the final to be held back at Ipswich Town FC’s Portman Road Stadium on Tuesday May 7th. 

  Ipswich Town Women will be their once again as they look to keep thier hands firmly on the trophy in a competition they have dominated in recent seasons. Are through to the final without kicking a ball after opponents AFC Sudbury Ladies took the decision to withdraw from the competition, the ERWFL Premier Division side having a tough season struggling with numbers and injuries.

Contesting the other semi-final were Haverhill Rovers Ladies leading the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South up against Needham Market Women top of the table in the Suffolk Women’s Division going into the match. Both making their debut season in women’s football a huge incentive a place in the County Cup Final at Portman Road for the winners. Played at a neutral venue Long Melford FC, Stoneylands Ground. A well contested match placed in front of a crowd of over 300, it was Needham Market who came out on top to win the game 4-1 and book their place in a 2nd final of the season. Currently the treble is on for Needham Market but no matter how thing’s go from here it’s a season that will live long in the memory.

Needham Market Women, through to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final (picture credit Gary Reed)

Suffolk Women’s Division

Whilst Needham Market Women were writing another chapter in their short history, their title rivals in the Suffolk Women’s Division, East Bergholt United Ladies were playing their vital game in hand at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday. Level with Needham Market at the top a positive result would see them move clear of their rivals with both having 5 left to play. Just the one league defeat to date East Bergholt made no mistake getting the 3 points thanks to a 4-0 win. Elena Nitsche scoring a brace, along with a goal a piece for Annie Northwood and Stacey Teager.

Lauren Page was on target for a hat-trick on Sunday her first goals for Brantham Athletic Ladies as they came home with the 3 points comfortably beating bottom side University of Suffolk Women. Along with Page’s hat-trick their was all a brace for Shanice Leeks with Carra Marie Seeley also getting a goal. 3rd placed Brantham Athletic winning 9-0, Toni Mott and Jessica Ryan on the scoresheet too celebrating their first goals.

Coplestonians Ladies were also in action at the weekend at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Goals from Abigail Eley her 10th of the season, along with a first for Coplestonians for Ashley Bustos and a strike from Sophie Allen seeing the home side leading 3-1 at half-time. Laura Brame on target for Walsham Le Willows, pulled it back to 3-2 in the 2nd half with her 25th goal of the season, it wasn’t enough however as Coplestonians held on to take the 3 points.