This Sunday saw the 1st Round of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup taking place, 3 ties to be played with the rest of the sides given a bye through to the quarter finals. Two of those ties taking place this Sunday with Brightlingsea Regent Ladies playing Woodbridge Town Ladies each other in the (cup) next weekend. The top two in the league playing in the 1st Round.
Holders, East Bergholt United Ladies beginning the defence of the League Cup away to University of Suffolk Women. A crushing 19-0 win in the league already this season this Sunday was no less painful for the league newcomers as they were soundly beaten once again. East Bergholt with a strong squad. Annie Northwood scoring 8 goals alone. Jessica Clarke with a hat-trick the other goalscorers all getting one each were Katie Helen Bruce, Jessica Oxlade, Jessica Quinsee, Charlotte Warren, Deben Faiers, Pippa King and Millie Wilding. 19-0 the score East Bergholt into the quarter finals. University of Suffolk Women enduring a tough start have faced sides contesting at the top of the table so far a big league have yet to mix it up with the sides also struggling for early season form
Needham Market Ladies new to the league themselves have started the season well a 100% league record continued that form in the 1st Round of the League Cup away to Brettvale Ladies. Several ex-Bacton United players in their squad Needham Market have an excellent base to progress. Francesca Rainbird netting a hat-trick, with Abbie Walker striking the ball into the back of the net for two goals. Lois Balfour, Milly Carter and Isabel Chaplin also getting a goal each in an 8-0 win to see Needham Market progress.
Suffolk Women’s Division
They meet in the 1st Round of the League Cup this coming weekend but this Sunday it was in the league itself for Brightlingsea Regents Ladies at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies. Both new names to the league this season. Both having clocked up one league win each so far going into this match. Woodbridge Town holding the advantage at the break leading 2-0 the visitors going on to celebrate their 2nd league win of the season adding a further two 2nd half to win the game 4-0. Kimberly Edwards, Jenna Liverpool, Natasha Williams with their 1st of the season and Sophie Crane getting the goals
A busy week of cup finals this week begins this Tuesday with a trip to Suffolk to watch the Women’s League Cup Final with AFC Kesgrave Ladies playing East Bergholt United Ladies.
A cup final appearance in their debut season for AFC Kesgrave Ladies a young squad making the step up to adult football this season. Hit the ground running winning there opening 2 matches. A run of losses then followed progress in the cup regaining some form has been up and down since with 6 wins from 15 played are comfortable in mid-table as the squad gains experience in the league.
East Bergholt United Ladies are into their 2nd successive Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final, beaten by Ipswich Town Ladies Development as they secured a league and cup double last season. The League Cup Final ending goalless went all the way to penalties and heartbreak for East Bergholt United as they went down 5-4 in the shootout. Are on course for a league and cup double themselves this season topping the Suffolk Women’s Division all season won their opening 9 games, a run of 4 successive draws following giving the chasing pack a chance to close the gap returning to winning ways last time out away to Leiston St Margarets are ahead on goal difference with 2 games left to play in the league an important week coming up. In action just 48 hours ago winning 7-0 at home to Coplestonians Ladies
Road to the Final
Both sides were handed a bye in the 1st Round to progress to the quarter finals of the League Cup. AFC Kesgrave were drawn at home up against Ipswich Athletic Ladies, a goal from Ashley Bustos along with a brace for Daisy Starsmoore in the 1st half seeing the club through to the last four of the competition. East Bergholt United starting the season with 4 successive wins took that form into the quarter finals of the League Cup where they were drawn away to another side with title ambitions Walsham Le Willow Ladies a close game a single goal settling the contest scored in the first half by East Bergholt’s Charlotte McGrath.
Onto the semi-finals, AFC Kesgrave were away to Coplestonians Ladies, goals from Bustos and Starsmoore along with Jade Fox securing a 3-0 victory to secure a final spot for the club in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division. East Bergholt United were at home in the semi-finals another tricky looking tie against Bacton United Ladies who have been on their heels in the league all season. A brace from Jessica Clarke with a goal each for Annie Northwood and Millie Wilding seeing East Bergholt United into their 2nd successive final.
Brantham Leisure Centre the venue for this evening’s final home of Brantham Athletic FC a sports field adjoining the main pitch overlooked by a large clubhouse and bar. Hot food and drink available, needed fuel and they did a very nice cheeseburger. The pitch a good size a small covered seated stand behind the dugouts and another at the end of one end. Rained all day Monday and I did wonder if this evenings final would be on but today has been much better drying thing’s out overcast but mild.
East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Emily Lambert, Deben Faiers, Millie Wilding, Georgina Longden (C), Charlotte Warren, Charlotte McGrath, Jess Quinsee, Georgia Lockerbie & Annie Northwood. Subs – Holly Prior, Pippa King, Jess Oxlade & Cara Savage.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s East Bergholt to get the match underway kicking off 1st half wearing green shirts with black shorts and socks. Kesgrave lined up opposite wearing red and blue vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Moving the ball forwards Kesgrave look to press East Bergholt early on the ball played out to the left for Jess Quinsee to chase, Kesgrave defend see the ball out for a throw. Kesgrave attack up the left winning a throw the ball played on into the area Deben Faiers defending for East Bergholt as Georgia Clarke and Imogen O’Sullivan look to attack the ball top of the area.
East Bergholt look to release their wide players, Quinsee left, Georgia Lockerbie on the right. Lauren Godbold stepping out of the back line for Kesgrave to tackle Quinsee as she cuts inside looking to drive towards the area. O’Sullivan attacks as she runs the ball down on the right a crunching tackle from Faiers the deflected ball running to Lina Nagid for Kesgrave 20 yards out left corner of the box shifts it inside one touch and shoots her rising effort wide of the top corner.
A bright start from Kesgrave. East Bergholt quick to turn play around. Kesgrave with a free kick on half way the ball played forwards Nagid running clear in behind East Bergholt goalkeeper Kimberly Lynch coming to the edge of her area stays big does enough to as Nagid gets a shot away her strike placed wide of the post.
GOAL! Kesgrave capitalise on their good start to the final getting forwards up the right win a throw in high up the pitch move it quickly players drawn across the cross comes in towards the top of the area O’Sullivan is there the ball into her path the keeper comes, the ball sent past her into the back of the net 1-0.
Plenty of pace in the Kesgrave side. Lose possession on the left Quinsee breaking forwards is brought down a free-kick. Players up from the back for East Bergholt the delivery into the top of the area, Godbold defending for Kesgrave. The ball is won back on the left Quinsee with the shot driving the ball in from 25 yards out, Jade Fox in goal for Kesgrave right behind it claims the ball. Lockerbie wide right pushes forwards for East Bergholt she is tackled by Jade Marsh.
GOAL! East Bergholt get themselves back on level terms attacking down the right the ball out for a throw deep inside the Kesgrave half the ball controlled and a low cross fired across the face of the goal, Quinsee there her 1st time shot initially blocked by the diving keeper is still active a scramble across the goalmouth, Quinsee gets it across the line to level the scores 1-1.
GOAL! No sooner are East Bergholt back on level terms they take the lead and it’s Quinsee once again on the scoresheet. The attack beginning with Annie Northwood driving through the middle stopped by the Kesgrave defence the ball kept by East Bergholt put out to Quinsee left side she takes it forwards shooting from the angle as she arrives in the area the ball racing past the keeper at the near post 2-1.
East Bergholt starting to get into their stride Charlotte McGrath in the middle of the park winning the ball looking to put Quinsee away on the left, Kesgrave intercepting the intended through ball. A double change for East Bergholt, Pippa King and Cara Savage coming on Quinsee and Northwood. King with an opportunity to shoot straight away her 20 yard effort taking a deflection out for a corner. A good delivery into the six yard box after a scramble for the ball Kesgrave get it to safety. Lockerbie with a header on looks to get into the area, Fox can come off her line to gather the ball.
A change for Kesgrave, Christy Fraser on for Clarke. Nagid looks a threat for Kesgrave picking up the ball inside the East Bergholt half and taking it forwards Faiers coming towards her to put in the challenge win the ball back. Play turned around rapidly Lockerbie wanting it on the right. Felicity Cooper coming across to tackle her. A throw on the right the cross fired into the area a shot right side pulled wide of the post. Emily Lambert on for Charlotte Warren the pass forwards looking to release Savage in behind on the left Issy McCartney getting to it first for Kesgrave.
GOAL! Half an hour played East Bergholt go further in front. Savage with the goal picking the ball up on the left a strong run forwards letting fly from distance the low shot racing across the keeper into the bottom corner of the net 3-1.
Ashley Bustos getting forwards for Kesgrave evades Faiers tackle the pass on for Nagid, Millie Wilding winning the ball back for East Bergholt. Harriet Meers breaks up a Kesgrave attack at right back her ball into the middle for Longden play spread out to Savage tackled the ball out for a throw wide left a change for Kesgrave O’Sullivan off Clarke back on. Lockerbie links up with King as East Bergholt attack playing a one two the cross into the area claimed by the keeper.
East Bergholt are strong through the middle Warren on for McGrath her pass forwards for King op of the area the ball defended runs to the right King seeing another attempt charged down. Nagid with a twisting run through the middle McCartney breaking ahead of her on the left the pass intercepted by Meers. Faiers in again to tackle Nagid as she comes forwards through the middle.
Nagid keeps probing through the middle a good run takes on the shot her effort stopped by Wilding almost puts Bustos in on goal inside the area on the follow up pounces on the loose ball Lynch diving at her feet reacts quickly to lay claim to the ball six yards out. McGrath with good combination play linking with Lockerbie right side progress down the right Cooper coming to support Marsh Kesgrave concede the throw in. Northwood returning to the field for Longden.
East Bergholt dominating late into the 1st half bodies up and around the Kesgrave area, no final shot. Kesgrave break forwards Bustos fouled in front of the centre circle. Players come forwards as the ball is played up into the box Wilding with the header the ball falling into the area Cooper central with the snap shot the strike wide of goal.
Half-time AFC Kesgrave Ladies 1-3 East Bergholt United Ladies
A 3-1 lead for East Bergholt as the referee brings the 1st half to a close. Kesgrave lively from the start taking an early lead East Bergholt finding a quick reply turning the game completely around to lead moments later. Have looked a threat using the wide players well stretching play. Kesgrave far from out of it have the pace to counter attack and create chances. East Bergholt extending the lead. A two goal advantage Kesgrave can put pressure on if they score early 2nd half.
Kesgrave to get the 2nd half underway. Pushing on win a corner early on in the 2nd period. A great delivery towards the far post dropped inviting the header duly obliged the ball put up and over the crossbar. Northwood played in on the left side attacks for East Bergholt the sliding tackle coming in the ball won back. Northwood getting hold of the ball for a Kesgrave goalkick plays it back across the top of the area Lockerbie sending a ball into the area McGrath with the run can’t quite get on the end of it.
GOAL! The early goal comes 2nd half unfortunately for Kesgrave it goes against them East Bergholt taking advantage from a slip on halfway as Kesgrave are awarded a free-kick the ball pounced on by Northwood a fantastic diagonal ball to the right releasing Lockerbie in behind lets fly form 25 yards out her strike past the keeper to make it 4-1.
A few times in the match East Bergholt have gotten the ball out wide getting into a good crossing position the ball coming into the area no one has gambled through the middle Kesgrave able to clear the ball without challenge. Nagid has taken a knock for Kesgrave comes off. King puts an effort on goal wide as she attempts to lob the keeper after she goalkick comes straight to her 25 yards out.
A triple switch for East Bergholt, Meers, McGrath and Lockerbie off on come Holly Prior, Jess Oxlade and Quinsee returning to the field. East Bergholt looking the more dominant side push players forwards. A long ball forwards from the middle sees Clarke head the ball out wide to O’Sullivan she attacks trying to get into the area, Faiers with the tackle putting the ball out for a throw. Nagid returns to the field for Kesgrave, Clarke giving way. Northwood getting away clear on the left her ball inside the box to Oxlade she lays it back for Savage, Cooper closing her down.
GOAL! Sustained possession on the right from East Bergholt wins them a corner kick the six yard box crowded as the ball in swung in high dropping across the face of goal Savage with the bullet header to bury the ball into the back of the net claims her 2nd of the final 5-1 the lead with a little over 20 minutes to play.
GOAL!East Bergholt continue to press forwards savage winning the ball the pass on for Northwood on the left comes inside stopped on the edge of the area. Wilding with the tackle up the other end 20 yards out as Nagid is played on through the middle for Kesgrave. A double save with her leg for the Kesgrave keeper stopping a driven shot fired in from the right side, deflected back out into area Oxlade closed down by McCartney gets a shot away again the keeper saves with her leg the ball cleared out of the area Kesgrave loosing their shape as East Bergholt press on the ball won back is with Savage is a long way out the keeper out of position fires it back in an unorthodox strike but effective as it loops up and drops into the back of the net, a Cup Final hat-trick for Savage 6-1.
Savage is brought off soon after along with King, Longden and McGrath returning. Faiers gets forwards with the ball from the back for East Bergholt has a shot her effort over from 25 yards. Northwood comes close to getting a goal for East Bergholt as she is played in behind through the middle her rising strike inside the box right of goal kissing the woodwork on it’s way out. Alice Longden comes on for East Bergholt replacing Wilding.
Late into the game Kesgrave tiring haven’t the subs to bring on like their opponents aren’t able to keep the ball as East Bergholt continue to press bodies on. Into the final 10 minutes. McCartney given time and room in the middle gets a shot away for Kesgrave, Lynch behind it all the way in the East Bergholt goal. Northwood put in the clear on the left shoots from the angle the ball whipping wide across the goal face. Nagid with Bustos on the left get forwards the shot driven in wide of the near post.
GOAL! Quinsee is brought down on the right as she threatens to run in behind clear to attack the goal. A free-kick in a dangerous position 20 yards out right corner of the box, Georgina Longden to take a great strike it flies in a foot under the cross bar to bring up East Bergholt’s 7th goal 7-1.
Into stoppage time East Bergholt on top Quinsee attacking on the right brought down once again. Kesgrave able to defend the set piece this time. The final whistle blows and East Bergholt claim their 1st trophy winning the Suffolk Women’s League Cup.
Full time AFC Kesgrave Ladies 1-7 East Bergholt United Ladies
A much better feeling for East Bergholt this time around after last season’s penalty heart ache. 7-1 the winning score a dominant performance once they got into their stride rotating their players frequently. Finding space out wide and recovering from an early set-back. Kesgrave buoyed by their start certainly have talent within their squad, pace good movement will improve 3-1 down at half -time conceding the 4th goal early in the 2nd half was a cruel blow and East Bergholt took full advantage. Never the less Kesgrave should be proud to have reached a Cup Final in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division.
The League Cup won the double still very much on. Rivals Walsham Le Willows and Bacton United Ladies also playing tonight a 2-1 win for Bacton puts them 3 points behind East Bergholt with one each left to play. Walsham Le Willows are now 8 point behind with 3 to play, East Begholt’s final league game is away to Walsham Le Willows on Sunday 13th May.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
A good all round performance from East Bergholt this evening the defence standing form when called upon, midfield competing for the ball and the wide players a threat whoever took up the position. Overall for her Cup Final hat-trick tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cara Savage.
Suffolk Women’s League Cup Winners, East Bergholt United (picture credit East Bergholt)
Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on winning the Suffolk Women’s League Cup.
Thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details tonight always appreciated. Onto Cambridgeshire for their Women’s League Cup Final.
Just the 2 games in Suffolk this Sunday but they were HUGE! The semi-finals of this season’s Women’s League Cup, won by Ipswich Town Ladies Development last season a new name will be on the trophy this time around.
East Bergholt United Ladies reached the final last season at the expense of there semi-final opponents this Sunday Bacton United Ladies. A contest between 1st and 2nd in the league too with East Bergholt the host side. Leading 2-0 at half-time East Bergholt United went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to reach their 2nd successive League Cup final with a 4-0 win. Jessica Clark scoring twice in the match there were goals to for Annie Northwood and Millie Wilding.
In the other semi-final Coplestonians Ladies were hosting AFC Kesgrave Ladies new to the league this season both looking to reach the League Cup final for the 1st time. The visitors scoring through Ashley Bustos, Jade Fox and Daisy Starsmoore to win the game 3-0 and see Kesgrave reach the final in their debut season.
Date and venue for the Suffolk Women’s League Cup final to be announced. Usually a mid-week affair will update as soon as I have the information. Well done to both East Bergholt United and AFC Kesgrave Ladies.
League Cup quarter finals weekend in Suffolk this Sunday, 8 sides vying for a spot in the semi-finals of the competition. AFC Kesgrave Ladies were a home to Ipswich Athletic Youth Ladies in their quarter final match the home side with a good 1st half display that saw them leading 3-0. Daisy Starsmoore netting a brace for Kesgrave along with a goal for Ashley Bustos. Ipswich Athletic pulling a goal back 2nd half through Shannon Cameron, Kesgrave reaching the semi finals of the League Cup in their 1st season in ladies football.
Coplestonians Ladies are also through to the semi-finals of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup with a narrow 2-1 victory away to Hadleigh United Ladies on Sunday, Goals from Courtney Farris-Whatling and Josie Haward seeing them advance.
Bacton United Ladies were drawn away to Leiston St Margarets Ladies in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup. A competitive tussle between the sides they couldn’t be separated after 90 minutes drawing 1-1 the tie headed into extra-time. Leiston St Margarets finding another goal it was the visitors celebrating victory however as Bacton United found the back of the net twice in the extra 30 minutes to win 3-2 and reach the semi-finals. Lois Balfour scoring 2 goals with Kirsten Spooner also getting a goal.
Two sides who would have been fancied to reach the final of the League Cup itself this season were drawn together in the quarter finals instead with Walsham Le Willows hosting league leaders East Bergholt United Ladies. Was a close match with just the one goal scored enough to see East Bergholt United beaten finalists last season progress their goal scoring heroine, Charlotte McGrath.
The semi finals line up is listed below both games scheduled to be played in the New Year, Sunday 28th January.
Coplestonians Ladies v AFC Kesgrave Ladies
East Bergholt United Ladies v Bacton United Ladies
League Cup semi-final weekend in Suffolk and it will be Bacton United Ladies and Ipswich Town Ladies Development who will contest the final with both winning at home on Sunday.
Bacton United Ladies were taking on East Bergholt United Ladies looking to reach their 1st ever league cup final. The sides going in 0-0 at half-time Bacton United went on to score 2 goals in the 2nd half to see them make history and reach the final.
In the other league cup semi-final Suffolk Women’s Division leaders Ipswich Town Ladies Development were hosting 2nd placed Walsham Le Willows Ladies both in their 1st season looking to make it into a final. Ipswich Town held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time before going on to score 3 more 2nd half, Walsham Le Willows grabbing a consolation goal in a 4-1 win to see Ipswich Town Ladies Development reach their 1st ever final. $ different goalscorers with, Sian Cottrell, Emily Steward, Catherine Upton and Eva Hubbard all on target putting the ball into the back of the net.
The date and venue for the Suffolk Women’s League Cup final has yet to be announced.
Suffolk Women’s Division
One game in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and with Walsham Le Willows Ladies involved in the League Cup, 3rd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies too full advantage winning at home against Leiston St Margarets Ladies to take then above them into 2nd 3 points clear. A brace for Danielle Harvey with a goal each for Rebecca Prime, Lucy Dunnett and Jessica Ryan in a 5-0 win.
For the 2nd week on a row it’s a shortened edition of The Round-Up featuring all the women’s football in the East on Sunday. There were 29 postponements last Sunday with rain being a major factor, waterlogged, pitches. This time around it was the frost hitting large parts of the region that saw 40 matches postponed for the 2nd weekend in a row it was a wipe-out in the FAWPL Southern Division. The FAWPL South East Division One also lost all it’s fixtures although Luton Town Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies did kick-off at 2pm the referee had concerns and with the score 0-0 at half-time the game was abandoned as conditions worsened. Likewise it was a total fixture loss in Norfolk on Sunday with just a game handful of matches in Beds & Herts, one game in Essex. Cambridgeshire further in land fairing the better saw more of a thaw allowing matches to be played.
ERWFL
Two games beat the weather in the ERWFL both in the Premier Division. League leaders, Haringey Borough Women were playing their 1st game of year and the 1st since they sadly lost their manager Steve Browne who passed away over the new year after losing a long battle with cancer. An emotional day for the club. Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies the visitors. Brooke Hills and Jessica Appeagyei with her 10th goal of the season scoring for Haringey Borough, the points shared on the day, Sophie Jeffrey scoring twice for AFC Sudbury to see them move above Writtle Ladies into 4th place in the Premier Division table.
Plenty of goals on show in the other match in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday with Royston Town Ladies at home to Colchester Town Ladies. The visitors finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match as they look to pull away from bottom side Histon Ladies, however it was the side immediately above them that hit back with 6 goals to win the match and record their 4th league win of the season. Samantha Tinsley is in blistering goal scoring form this season moving onto 27 goals with a hat-trick for Royston Town. Andrea Wright with a brace and Harriet Smith with the other Royston Town goals. Northern Ireland U19s international, Miagh Downey scored early in the game for Colchester with Kira Fitzpatrick and Nancy Butler with 2 goals scoring in the 2nd half for the visitors.
Suffolk
Was League Cup quarter final weekend in Suffolk. 3 ties scheduled to be played with Walsham Le Willows having a bye through to the semi-finals following the withdrawal of Witnesham Wasps from the league. Ipswich Town Ladies Development saw their match away to Leiston St Margaret Ladies postponed and will try again next Sunday. Out of the League Cup are the current holders Brantham Athletic Ladies after they were beaten away from home on Sunday 2-0 by East Bergholt United.
East Bergholt United will play Bacton United Ladies in the semi-finals of the League Cup after they won their quarter final tie away to Copleston Ladies 3-0 on Sunday. Scoring twice in the 1st half before sealing victory with a 3rd goal in the 2nd half, Lois Balfour, Gemma Howe and Francesca Rainbird with the goals for Bacton United.
Cambridgeshire
Cambridgeshire dominates this shortened edition of The Round-Up with the county fairing better than most with the cold weather. Two games in Premiership, and it continues to be a tit for tattle battle at the top of the league with Cambridge United WFC Reserves and Newmarket Town Ladies both hunting for the title. Level on 18 points at the top heading into the weekend Cambridge United WFC Reserves held the advantage on goal difference their match against local rivals Cambridge University Women was postponed however giving Newmarket Town Ladies a chance to return to the top of the table with a trip to Peterborough to play ICA Sports Ladies. The visitors going ahead through Abbie Marshall (pictures) in the 11th minute, Marshall added a 2nd goal 7 minutes later. Lorna Hart pulling a goal back for ICA Sports to see them trail 2-1 at half-time.
Newmarket Town Ladies extended their lead to 3-1 with Abbi Griffin putting the ball into the back of the net with 10 minutes of the 2nd half played. Amelia Deuchars recently signed by Newmarket scored her 1st goal for the club in the 72nd minutes. Hart with her 2nd of the match pulling a gal back for ICA Sports before Jordanne Sillitoe scored in the final minute to seal a 5-2 win for Newmarket to put them 3 points clear at the top of the Premiership once again.
At the other end of the Premiership table it was a meeting between the bottom two with Park Ladies travelling to play Bourne Ladies both newly promoted to the league, both looking fortheir 1st win at the higher level. It was Park Ladies who were celebrating at the final whistle getting their 1st win in the Premiership following on from their cup victory last Sunday. Won the game 3-1 with goals from Chantelle Abraham, Erin Powell and Amy Newell who moves onto a dozen goals for the season so far.
Two games were also played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North on Sunday with Wisbech Town Ladies earning a good point away to unbeaten Swineshead Institute Ladies on Sunday coming back from 1-0 down at half-time to draw 2-2 in the 2nd half. Chloe Gray ad Ellie Spendlow netting the goals for Swineshead Institute. Leah Hall and Polly Norman getting the goals in the 2nd half for Wisbech Town.
In the other game in the Championship North, 5th placed, P&L Motors Diamonds ran out 9-0 winners at home against bottom side Thurlby Tigers.
One game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South with league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development winning big away from home to move 7 points clear at the top of the table. Were taking on Riverside Rovers Reserves. Carla Penny bagged herself a double hat-trick in the game with Erin Walusimbi, Ellie Geoghan and Amy Ozakpinar with her 1st goal for the Development side all getting a goal a piece in a 9-0 win.
The action continues in Cambridgeshire with 4 ties from the 1st Round of the Women’s Invitation Cup getting played after being called off last Sunday. Cup holders Cambridge United WFC began the defence of the trophy away to March Town United Ladies. A tough test for the Cambridgeshire Championship North leaders taking on a side 4 leagues higher. Cambridge United putting out a strong starting XI proving too strong running out 12-0 winners, Evie Gallop (pictured) scoring her 1st hat-trick for the club. There was a brace each for Paige Logie and Laura Mills. With goals each for Laura Bright, Danielle Puddefoot, Lauren Gibson and Nicole Perschky with and own goal too.
Cambridgeshire Championship South side, Milton Ladies caused an upset in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup knocking out EMWFL Division One South side, Riverside Rovers Ladies. The final score 3-2 to Milton at home, less of a surprise is their goal-scorer with Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes netting all 3 of their goals to move onto 21 goals for the season so far. Milton Ladies with now be at home to Cambridge United WFC in the quarter-finals of the Invitation Cup.
It took 2 goals in extra-time for Premiership side, Bar Hill Ladies to see off Fulbourn Bluebirds from the Championship South in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup. The scores all level at 1-1 after 90 minutes Bar Hill went on to win 3-1 in the extra-time period with goals from Rebecca Covell and a brace for Holly Ingarfield. Holly Hayes with the goal for Fulbourn Bluebirds. Bar Hill Ladies will be away to ERWFL Premier Division side Histon Ladies after they were awarded a home win against Wisbech St Marys Ladies.
With 9 goals for their Development team already listed above, Cambridge City Ladies 1st team were in equally trigger happy form at home to Cambridge Rangers on Sunday in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup the Championship South side taking on a side in form 2 leagues higher. Bella Simmons top scoring with 4 goals in the game, Sarah Mosley scoring a hat-trick. 2 goals each for Philippa Witherspoon and Charlotte Gillies too with a goal each for Amy Reed, Emma Littlewood, Bronte Rapley and Rachel Pearce in a 15-0 win will now be away to Park Ladies in the quarter finals after they beat Orton Rangers Ladies 12-0 last Sunday in the Invitation Cup.
ICA Sports will have to wait till this Sunday to see who they will face in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup after Isleham United Ladies home game against St Ives Town was postponed for the 2nd weekend running.
Essex
Was meant to be a League Cup weekend in Essex however all but one game was lost the weather. In the game that was played Essex Women’s Division One side, Harlow Town Ladies Reserves beat Premier Division side, Alresford Colne Rangers 3-1. The rest will try again this coming Sunday.
Hutton Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies along with Lawford Ladies & Writtle Ladies both saw their Essex Women’s County Cup quarter finals lined up with the victors of the former at home to the winners of the latter in the semi-finals. BiIlericay Town Ladies will be at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies
Beds & Herts
Two quarter finals in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup that were postponed last Sunday fared better this time around as two more sides booked their spot in the semi-finals. Was a clash between two local rivals both level on points in the ERWFL Premier Division in 2nd and 3rd place in the table meeting in the County Cup, Bedford Ladies taking on AFC Dunstable Ladies. Natasha Fensome scoring twice for Bedford the see them advance into the last 4 of the competition where they have been drawn away to cup holders Luton Town Ladies.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side, Sharnbrook WFC are also through to the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup with a 3-0 away win a Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. Gemma Franklin putting Sharnbrook into an early lead 1st half with Charlotte Mullins and Claire Smith both scoring goals in the 2nd half. Sharnbrook will now be at home in the semi-finals playing either Houghton Athletic Ladies or Offley & Stopsley Women whose match was postponed again this weekend.
Just the one game beat the weather in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football leagues this Sunday but it was a significant result for Hitchin Belles on Division Two after they beat bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets 4-1 to leap from 6th in the table to 2nd to move to within a point of table toppers Flitwick Ladies with a game in hand. A brace for Shannon Page taking her goals scored tally to 20 for the season for Hitchin Belles with Charis Wakefield and Amy Jack also getting a goal each in a 4-1 win. Lauren Revell with the goal in the 1st half for Woburn & Wavendon.
Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final – Wedsnesday 6th April
Cup Final Report – Brantham Athletic Ladies v Witnesham Wasps Ladies
A Wednesday night trip into Suffolk to Hadleigh United FC to watch this seasons Women’s league Cup Final between Brantham Athletic Ladies & Witnesham Wasps Ladies.
Just the 7 sides are contesting the Suffolk Women’s Division this season, Brantham Athletic Ladies currently lead the way with Witnesham Wasps Ladies in 3rd place.
Route to the Final
The League Cup competition started at the quarter final stage with Copleston Ladies the team receiving the Bye into the semi-finals. Brantham Athletic Ladies were drawn away to new side Leiston St Margarets Ladies, reached the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-1 win. In the semi-final were drawn on home soil to play Bacton United Ladies scored 5 times once again beating them 5-2 to earn a place in the final for the 2nd year running and will be hoping to go one better this time, losing back then to Long Melford Ladies who made it a league and cup double, sure Brantham Athletic Ladies would love to do the same this time around.
Witnesham Wasps Ladies were also away in the quarter final stage against another new side in the Suffolk Women’s Division, Ipswich Phoenix Ladies, reached the semi-finals with ease clocking up 9 goals whilst conceding just the 1. Were drawn away to Copleston Ladies in the semi’s originally at the back end of November it was a tight encounter going all the way finishing 2-2 after extra time, however the match was called off before the penalty shoot out could commence due to it being too dark. The semi-final was rescheduled with an earlier kick off time two weeks later this time Witnesham Wasp Ladies went on to score 4 times beating Copleston Ladies 4-2 to set up a League Cup Final date with Brantham Athletic Ladies.
The venue for tonight’s League Cup Final, Hadleigh United FC. A small non-league ground situated in a picturesque part of Suffolk. A large pitch with a small seated and covered stand on one side of the pitch opposite a large clubhouse and bar offering a covered viewing area outside on the opposite side, with hot refreshments available. A bright and clear night with no sign of the rain seen earlier in the day, rapidly cooling as the light faded and the floodlights started to come on.
Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI – Keri Burley, Shanice Leeks, Charlotte Partridge, Monique Peters, Merlin Watson, Jo Hazelton, Lucy Elmes, Danielle Harvey, Lucy Dunnett (C) Becky Prime & Kirsten Hutchings
It’s Brantham to get the 1st half of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final underway. Kitted out in an all blue kit with Witnesham lined up opposite wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and yellow socks. They press Brantham for the ball right from the start winning it in midfield and trying to release, Beth Welton away on the right wing. Brantham regain possession and playing the ball into the Witnesham half captain Lucy Dunnett fights a bit of space moving to the right looks to play the ball up to her strikers Becky Prime and Kirsten Hutchings the ball dropping to the right side of the Witnesham area, full back Chloe Stopher defends well up against the latter as she looks to get on the ball.
Brantham with the ball down the right attack winning a throw the ball is dropped to the bright orange boots of Dunnett, immediately she looks to play in Hutchings down the line getting onto the ball she drives into the area taking on the shot from an acute angle flashes the effort behind the Witnesham goal.
Witnesham have begun at a fast tempo snapping at Brantham whenever they have the ball, force the error then look to attack get the ball out to either Emma Long moving into space left or Welton on the right. Emily Steward playing through the middle links up with Welton on the right the ball taken deep into the Brantham half brings the 1st corner of the match. An in swinging ball from the right towards the near post the ball is headed clear by Brantham’s Charlotte Partridge.
Danielle Harvey drives forwards with the ball at her feet from Brantham looking to take on the Witnesham defence is pushed out to the left side of the box, going for the early shot, the contact is poor as the ball is sliced wide of the target. Witnesham concede a couple of free kicks in the middle of the park both against Dunnett, with the no 11 to take the set pieces looks to send the ball long towards the area on both occasions and both times the Witnesham defence marshals the ball well.
Danielle Harvey drives forwards with the ball for Brantham Athletic Ladies
The ball pinging around in the centre circle with neither side getting hold of it pops free into the Brantham half with Long the player getting onto the end of it, driving forwards towards the edge of the area right of the D pulls the trigger sends her strike swerving in towards goal, bu straight into the gloves of Brantham goalkeeper, Keri Burley. Free kick to Witnesham wide on the right inside the Brantham half, it’s Tash Williams, Witnesham’s captain to take plays it in towards Welton right side of the area, heads the ball on across the front of the box into the crowd beyond drops amongst bodies far side a shot comes in the ball rolling wide of goal.
Sho Allen with time and space on the ball in the middle for Witnesham is allowed to bring the ball on winds up a shot 25 yards out hitting Brantham defender Monique Peters the ball spins away to the left is latched onto Long free beyond 20 yards out hits her shot wide of goal. A scrappy start, Witnesham’s energy to close Brantham down is seeing them get more possession of the ball. Brantham with Dunnett always a threat whenever she gets on the ball put it into space behind the Witnesham defence with Hutchings giving chase left side, Stopher stays on her gets her toe on the ball to put it out for a corner kick. A good delivery coming in high Witnesham goalkeeper Zoe Adams goes up for it in the centre of her goal, brushing it with a glove, drops behind her, no one for Brantham attacking the far post the ball goes out for a corner kick on the right. This one is played out to the top of the box with Hutchings making a run to get across her marker gets her foot on the ball turns the shot goalwards, close but just the wrong side of the post.
Break for Witnesham on the left Kirsty Bootyman releases Long out on the left wing, gets her head down carries the ball on aiming for the Brantham box releases her shot even as the defender coming in to challenge goes down to try and block the shot the ball evading her but is stopped by Burley who has come racing out off her goal line towards the danger sliding gets hold of the ball to make the save.
Jo Hazelton brings the ball on inside the Witnesham half pushing in from the left side into the centre, Prime comes towards her from attack to offer a passing option is given the ball as Hazelton looks to race on in behind her, Prime back to Dunnett who plays the pass over the Witnesham defence to pick out Hazelton driving into the area moving out to the left of the goal shoots back across goal from the edge of the six yard box, Adams gets down sharply to save, taking the pace off the ball then getting hold of it. A change for Witnesham with Bootyman coming off and Lauren Page coming on.
Dunnett with a shot from 20 yards out central as the ball is fired into her, bringing it under control shifts it a yard then sends it in towards goal a bouncing ball, Adams has time to set herself see it safely into her gloves. Welton is posing a few questions for Brantham on the right, looking to get in behind the defence and cross into the area as they make a 2nd change bringing off Steward sends Izzy Leming on to up top. Partridge carries the ball on from the back for Brantham over half way played on for Dunnett who attempts to play the ball on for Hutchings to chase into the Witnesham area, Adams coming out to meet the threat gets to the ball 1st as the referee brings the 1st half to a close.
Has been a good contest 1st half, the sides closely matched, Witnesham have put a lot of effort into pressing Brantham off the ball, trying to release Welton and Long on the flanks, both sides have created chances but for the large part defences have been on top.
Witnesham out early from the dressing room get the 2nd half underway, Brantham have Jessica Ryan out on the pitch with Harvey off. Attacking down the Witnesham left Brantham get a throw on that side Williams fouls Hazelton as she looks to turn right of the area. Dunnett over the set piece puts the ball over the goal frame. Brantham have started the 2nd half strongly pushing Witnesham back keeping possession inside their own half.
GOAL! Brantham take the lead. Possession on the right brings a throw the ball is played on to Dunnett who turns into the box on the right, looks to shoot, changes her mind knocks it on further to create room and hits the ball across the goal putting it into the back of the net 1-0.
Brantham Athletic captain battling for the ball with Witnesham Wasps Sho Allen scores the opening goal in the Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final
Have been a few rashly timed challenges which the referee has been quick to blow up on. Both sides committing them in and around the centre circle. Williams and Hutchings have come together on a couple of occasions the latest encounter sees Williams needing treatment as they contest a 50/50 ball, comes off with Annabel Tricker being sent on.
Brantham win a free kick wide on the left half way inside the Witnesham half everyone goes into the area with Dunnett to deliver. Is a fantastic ball sent in towards the near post, on target dropping you can see it’s going to be a difficult one for the keeper to deal with. Adams goes for it gets some part of her glove on the ball, the crowd cheer, Dunnett looks to celebrate, I’d started to write 2-0… but no the ball was turned around the post for a corner kick a fantastic save from the keeper.
Welton pushing with the ball down the right wins Witnesham a corner kick, is played in towards her on the edge of the area, plays the dummy the ball rolling under her foot on to Page behind coming onto the ball inside the D, wraps her foot around the shot, too many bodies to get through, before play is pulled of for an offside decision. Another enforced change for Witnesham with Long hurt after a challenge on the right, has to come off with Steward returning to the action to support Leming up in attack as they search for an equalising goal.
Hazelton gets the ball from Elmes in the centre of midfield taking it on Ryan is free on the right for Brantham given the ball turns inside looking to fire the ball into Prime who dinks it over the top of the Witnesham defence, One of those moments where both defence and goalkeeper hesitate, Ryan bursts in behind to get onto the ball rolling out to the right of goal inside the area, pulls her shot wide at the front post. Williams has recovered from her knock to return to the game comes on in place of Page goes up to join the attackers.
A vital lunge to get her boot on the ball from Brantham’s Partridge as Witnesham attack down the right, play spread the ball had it found it’s target would have seen Williams free to attack the goal from the right side as it is they have a corner off Partridge’s interception. Coming in high towards the near post is flicked behind for another corner on the opposite side. This delivery drops down into the middle of the six yard box several attempts to connect with the bouncing ball, the vital touch is from a Brantham boot as the ball is launched clear. Few Witnesham players starting to feel it put alot of effort in cramping up
Emily Steward on the ball for Witnesham Wasps
Winning the ball at the back Witnesham’s Lauren Jacobs plays it long with the break on Williams left in front of the Brantham area has Steward to her right looks to play the ball on for her into the area, Burley comes racing out and is able to claim the ball 1st. A free kick for Brantham in a go position 20/25 yards out right side of the D, always going to be a shot from Dunnett from this position, gets far too much elevation on the ball sending it high into the night sky over the goal. Double change for Brantham as the match moves into the final 5 minutes of normal time. Hazelton and Prime the players coming off with Katy Skinner and Heather Andrews coming on. Shortly afterwards Witnesham’s Stopher suffers from a particularly painful cramping in her right leg and comes off, Chloe Anderson joining the action.
Ana Carolina also comes on late on for Brantham with Carra Seeley coming off. Witnesham have to push a few extra bodies forwards as they try and get a goal. Welton and Steward combine on the right high inside the Brantham half a give and go, the final pass to put Welton in behind won’t come off. A free kick for Witnesham 30 yards out left/central, Ali Rampling over the ball is encouraged to go for goal a good effort dropping late however coming across her goal Burley can see it wide.
GOAL! 3 minutes of normal time left to play and Brantham double their lead to put the result beyond doubt. Witnesham are looking to carry the ball out from the back lose possession with Dunnett getting onto the ball inside the centre circle has Andrews close by no her right lifts the pass on to her she plays it over the top into the path of Hutchings making a move to get forwards left side, shoots from the edge of the area burying the ball past Adams to score 2-0.
Kirsten Hutching with the ball doubles Brantham Athletic Ladies lead late on
In to injury time, Witnesham need the ball but can’t get it as play is broken up by Brantham who keep it inside their opponents half to see out the final minutes and cue the celebrations as the referee blows the final whistle to see Brantham win the Suffolk Women’s League Cup.
Was a good contest, competitive both sides working hard, Witnesham just could match the intensity they put into pressing the ball 1st half as they tired 2nd half. Brantham got the early goal in the 2nd half and looked like they would hold onto the lead the 2nd goal coming late into the game ensuring the win. Played in front of a good sized crowd too who saw an entertaining final.
Brantham Athletic Ladies, Suffolk Women’s League Cup Winners (photo credit Brantham Athletic)
Thank to the Suffolk FA staff for their help tonight with the teams. Congratulations to Brantham Athletic Ladies on their Cup Final success, enjoy the celebrations.
