Tag Archives: Brettvale Ladies

Match Report – Brettvale Ladies v Brantham Athletic Ladies

Wednesday 17th May

Suffolk Women’s Premier Division

 Heading back into Suffolk this Wednesday evening to take in some action from the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division with Brettvale Ladies finishing their campaign at home to Brantham Athletic Ladies.

The Suffolk Women’s County League the smallest in terms of numbers across the East for a long time featuring just one Division, growth happening like the rest of the region within the women’s game particularly at youth level saw the single league split into 2 last season to better accommodate sides and ability. With sides dropping out and moving up numbers have been reduced in the Premier Division to 7 overall. A decision made late on for the sides to play each other 3 times has seen the season extended all the way to the end of May with some sides putting in midweek fixtures to ensure thing’s get done, thus a great opportunity to get in some league action where normally I’d struggle.

Brettvale Ladies formed 5 season’s ago building a squad around a core of experienced players from the old Ipswich Wanderers Ladies side that used to play in the ERWFL. A solid debut season were to reach the final of the County Cup in the Covid hit season that followed eventually losing to Ipswich Town Women. Strong pushing at the top end of the table won the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division last season. Likely to finish as runners-up this time round, a great achievement in itself when you bare in mind how badly the side has been affected by injuries this season, several long term too. The most recent top scorers Tarnya McKew, damaging her achilles, her goals will be a huge miss for Brettvale having netted 16 this season. There final game of the season this evening will be glad to get the season done rest up and prepare for a new campaign hopefully see some players recover for the new season especially with a few of their senior players preparing to retire. Struggling for numbers have just the 10 available this evening but want to fulfil the fixture complete their fixtures. Players needed to fill gaps their goalkeeper hurting her wrist out too, captain Claire Turnbull donning the gloves. Formed a new U13s girls team this season another positive step building for the future.

Brantham Athletic Ladies very close to not starting the season at all, the longest established club in the Suffolk Women’s Football league struggling for numbers with injuries and unavailability too playing their part. Have turned thing’s around however bringing in Daniel Claxton to coach the side have been working hard on fitness and getting the best out of the players they have, moral improving drastically and that is certainly noticeable in the games I’ve seen. There best form saved for the League Cup going all the way to the final, knocking out Brettvale on the way. Have pulled away from the bottom of the table, this evening possibly their last fixture of the season too with their opponents unlikely to fulfil the fixture. A good mixture of young talent and experienced players within the squad have a few out themselves this evening still able to name a squad of 13. Like Brettvale have an U13s side aswell as a side playing in the U14s league.

Brettvale playing their football in Raydon just off the A12 south of Ipswich at King Georges Playing Fields. A pavilion and clubhouse in one corner of the ground housing the changing rooms and community bar. Room for several grass pitches the players and coaches setting up the pitch before kick-off. Stark contrast to last evenings game held at Colchester United FC just up the road, but a reminder that the women’s football pyramid isn’t all that big, the FAWSL just 6 promotions away (it’s a big just mind). Still I love these kinds of games both sides in good spirits before kick off the sun bright setting behind one goal. A narrow pitch not overly big.

Brettvale Ladies

Brettvale Ladies starting XI – Claire Turnbull (C), Rachel White, Lois Gooderham, Deban Howlett, Danielle Lynch, Bethany Bennett, Jess Gill, Sophie White, Amy Parton & Georgia Lindon.

Brantham Athletic Ladies

 Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI – Connie Madley, Jess Prime, Katie Lovekin, Shanice Leeks, Shannan Hill, Harriet Young, Lucy Dunnett (C), Sophie Crabtree, Amee Berry, Shannon Giles & Chloe Wilson. Subs – Georgia Long & Freya Gudgeon.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A 7pm kick-off with no floodlights two halves of 40 minutes agreed before the game with a short turn around in between the ensure the game is completed before the light fades. Brantham to kick-off the first half wearing an all claret coloured away kit with Brettvale in their home colours blue shirts fading to sky blue with navy shorts and sky blue socks. The ball played back to captain, Lucy Dunnett , put back to Katie Lovekin on the left, Brettvale rush on to close the defence down the ball hastily cleared for a throw, coming inside the ball played long out to Amee Berry attacking on the left for Brantham, Danielle Lynch across to close her down for Brettvale.

Brettvale captain Claire Turnbull, deputising in goal this evening

 

  Harriet Young getting forwards for Brantham on the left taking the ball on from a throw in sending in on through the Brettvale defence for Chloe Wilson running in left of goal, shoots sending the ball in across the goal, captain Claire Turnbull getting a glove on the ball to turn it away to the right. Jess Gill pushing on down the right for Brettvale wins her side a corner kick. Swung in towards the top of the area, controlled by Berry who looks to travel with the ball Brantham threatening to break, Rachel White in to challenge for Brettvale on halfway. 

Brantham’s Harriet Young

 Brettvale looking to be positive despite their player disadvantage getting another corner on the right, a good delivery into the ox, headed clear by Young for Brantham. Amy Parton with the diagonal ball for Brettvale into Lois Gooderham attacking down the right, knocks the ball on Dunnett lunging in to win the ball back for Brantham. The visitors combine well through the middle Berry into Young sends it forwards for Wilson racing through the defence after the ball Turnbull coming to clear an outfield player by instinct and is often the case kicks clear rather than picking it up.

  Dunnett with a great pass in her locker sends a diagonal ball out to the right for Sophie Crabtree pulling off the Brettvale defence, the line held she is flagged offside. Deban Howlett tackling Wilson as she picks up the ball 30 yards out looks to head into the left channel. Georgia Lindon and Gooderham look to combine down the left in attack for Brettvale, Lindon 25 out putting the ball into Gooderham wide on the touchline her return pass squared back inside to Lindon left of the D, Shannan Hill doing the defending for Brantham preventing the attacker from turning to shoot.

  Berry fouled on half way as she looks to attack for Brantham, Brettvale back to defend their box with Dunnett over the set-piece, floated in to the top of the area won by Parton and cleared. Jess Prime coming on up the left for Brantham forwards into Berry, Lynch tacking the ball gone for a throw. Prime with a long throw, Howlett in to win it for Brettvale. Level with the top of the area the ball dropped into Wilson, turns well to shoot pulls her effort wide of the far post, Crabtree racing in to try and deflect it goalwards can’t keep the ball in play.

Brantham’s Jess Prime

  A lively 10 minutes all action, no one allowed time on the ball, Brantham getting a throw high on the left dropped into Berry edge of the box lays it back up to Dunnett top corner to cross in central, Young coming onto the ball 25 yards out hitting a strike straight at the keeper, Turnbull bringing it down playing the ball out to the right, Brettvale threatening to break as Lindon races away down the wing, Hill getting back on her tracking the attacker all the way doing well to win a goal kick for her side. 

 Lynch coming to tackle Berry as the Brantham midfielder drives on with the ball. Young again playing a good ball through to Wilson breaking through the defence, Turnbull once again rushing out to kick the ball clear inside her area. Danger for Brettvale as they concede a free-kick outside their box to the left corner of the area, Dunnett over the ball doesn’t get the connection she wanted frustrated as she sends the shot over the bar. 15 minutes played.

GOAL! The break through coming for Brantham in the 15th minute Wilson threatening to run clear to attack the goal on a couple of occasions is put through by Hill as play is congested in the middle of the park, taking the ball to the top of the area before striking it on the run sending a rising shot over the keeper into the top right corner 0-1.

Chloe Wilson opening the scoring for Brantham

  Howlett defending at the back for Brettvale getting in to tackle Crabtree and she and Wilson attempt to break in behind. Play rushed players drawn to the ball no time to settle. Berry unhappy again as she is barged over in the middle. Dunnett again on the dead ball lifting it over the defence, to the right the flag already up as Crabtree goes to strike the ball across goal. Shannon Giles with a shot put wide of the right post for Brantham from 25 yards out as Crabtree puts the ball back to her.

Deban Howlett winning the ball against Chloe Wilson

  20 minutes played the game ticking along at a fast pace Prime getting forwards on the left getting a throw high, looks for Dunnett the return pass put out for another throw in the corner, Young taking over long throw duties, high into the box, Parton doing the defending for Brettvale. Wilson with another attempt from distance struck over. Berry on the move with the ball up the eft for Brantham, Bethany Bennett getting back on her for Brettvale shoulder to shoulder getting a foot on the ball to take it behind for the corner kick. An inswinging ball from Dunnett headed confidently clear by Howlett. 

Brantham’s Amee Berry with Brettvale’s Bethany Bennett

  Howlett strong again in defence winning the ball as Giles out on the left fires the ball into Wilson inside the D. Howlett then racing out to charge down Berry charging down her cross to the left. Lindon pulling away to the right for Brettvale in attack, Prime in to close her down getting the ball bac to goalkeeper Connie Madley to clear. Brettvale winning a free-kick wide on the right inside the Brantham half Howlett to deliver into the box with players going forwards, flighted in across the face for goal Parton central almost getting their a faint touch the ball cleared. The referee having words with a few players mainly Brantham’s voicing their complaints, Young putting herself about on the middle. Brettvale keeping the pressure on up top winning a corner on the left flashed in near post missed by Madley races on across the face of goal, no one there to attack it Parton retrieving far side her cross back into the box cut out by Hill.

  Lindon seeing the ball across her 25 yards out spins away to the right heading for the area, Hill lunging in to block for Brantham. Brettvale send a long diagonal ball into the box right of goal, Hill looking to clear it smashes the ball straight into the on rushing Lindon, could have gone anywhere deflected towards goal is straight at Madley who gets hold of the ball. The grass a little long Lindon slipping as she goes to pull the trigger from 35 yards out sees the ball screwed wide of target.

Georgia Lindon on the attack for Brettvale

 Howlett busy in defence for Brettvale as Young linking up with Dunnett comes on through the middle. Dunnett moving right up the field with Wilson and Crabtree, the ball laid forwards Howlett getting across Crabtree to see the ball out for a goal kick. Young hooking the ball forwards for Brantham, Howlett getting in between Wilson and Crabtree to out her head on the ball. Brettvale doing well enough with 10 players, The defence holding a good line not exposing Turnbull in goal beyond, Brantham a little frustrated the final ball not quite coming off. 

 Berry in space for Brantham 30 yards out has Dunnett on the move to the left, up the line cuts back onto her right foot to curl a looping shot in towards goal over Turnbull the ball smashes against the crossbar and out to the right. The first half drawing to a close Brantham coming close to a 2nd goal attack overloading the right Dunnett threading the ball through for Crabtree staying on side this time into the box shoots on the angle the shot put straight at Turnbull who gets down to get hold of the ball. Crabtree with seconds to spare wriggling free of the Brettvale defence to chase after the ball, Turnbull out to the top of her area to kick clear.

Half-time Brettvale Ladies 0-1 Brantham Athletic Ladies

  Brantham with the advantage at the break leading by a single goal, Chloe Wilson’s 15th minute strike the difference. Lucy Dunnett coming closest to adding a 2nd crashing the ball into the crossbar from a curled effort from wide. Brettvale on the whole coping well with the players disadvantage, Wilson breaking through early in the game but have dealt with the threat better since. Brantham too containing their opponents at the back, Lindon getting about in attack Hill and Prime both tracking her to defend. 

Changes for Brantham at the break with Georgia Long coming on for Prime at the back and Freya Gudgeon on for Crabtree on the right. A quick turn around the sun setting with Brettvale to get the 2nd half underway, the ball played out for Gill attacking on the right, Hill defending for Brantham. Brettvale pressing on at the start of the 2nd half winning a throw out on the right in across the top of the area Leeks clearing for Brantham. 

 Brettvale pushing up on the right Parton into Gooderham inside for Lindon, Hill in to win the ball back for Brantham. A good battle developing between Brettvale’s Gill and Brantham’s Young the latter fouling Gill giving away the free-kick inside the Brantham half. 35 yards out Howlett mashing the ball into the Brantham wall. Young counters lifting the ball over the top for Wilson taking it down away to the left of the box, Turnbull coming to close her down blocking the ball loose as the defence race back Wilson closed down before she can attempt a strike. 

 Lindon racing clear on the right into the box for Brettvale after the ball, Madley rushing out to close her down blocking to knock the ball back against the attacker to spin out for a goal kick. Sophie White looking to bring the ball on left for Brettvale gets her ankle caught on the turf rolling it goes down in discomfort a pause in play as she is assessed not looking good not being risked taken off Brettvale down to 9 players. 

 Howlett intercepting at the back as Hill sends the ball up to Wilson in attack. Gill tracking back to close the ball down for Brettvale as Young puts it on through the middle. Lindon offside for Brettvale as she is fed through on the right. Gooderham playing the ball into Gill outside the, Young in close a hand ball spotted Brettvale winning a free-kick in a dangerous position. Gill over the ball fires the ball in around the wall dipping in front of Madley the keeper pushing the ball away to the left Brettvale after it put back to Lindon left corner who sends her strike wide of the far post.

Brettvale’s Deban Howlett

  Long putting the ball forwards on the left for Berry to play Wilson through to attack racing on for the corner of the area, the Brantham attacker shoots putting her effort wide across Turnbull’s goal. Gill with a long range punt for Brettvale 40 yards out dropping wide of the left post. Lindon getting back at Hill inside the box to wrestle the ball back feeds it back for Gill central to strike from 25 yards out her effort straight at the keeper. 

Danielle Lynch clearing for Brettvale

 Brettvale coping well with have two less players getting after the ball, Howlett and Lynch winning the ball. Dunnett moving into an advanced position on the right clipping a shot in towards goal, dipping in front of Turnbull saves well with her legs, deflecting the ball away from goal. Brantham look to make changes Prime and Crabtree back on, Lovekin and Leeks coming off. Bennett charging down Wilson as she drives for goal into the left channel. Turnbull cheered by her teammates as she catches a long range strike fired into her from the left. 

  Dunnett over a dead ball on the left 40 yards out the ball brushing the crossbar on it’s way over. 20 minutes left to play the score remains 0-1. Long getting the challenge on a Gill looks to take the ball on through the middle for Brettvale. Dunnett picking out Gudgeon getting away on the right for Brantham, Gooderham getting across to tackle for Brettvale. A throw for Brantham high on the right.

GOAL! Taken quickly dropped into Dunnett outside the box turns and strikes the ball curling a fine strike across the keeper into the top corner to double the lead 0-2.

Lucy Dunnett with a superb strike to put Brantham 2 up

  More injury concerns for Brettvale as Gooderham is hurt in a 50?50 challenge on the ball hurting her ankle. Time taken no risks wanting to be taken Gooderham tentatively putting weight on it carrying on for now. Brantham with a corner on the right the ball swung in central cleared by Gill who then rushes out to charge down Giles as she lines up a strike from outside the box. 

Brantham’s Shannon Giles

 Crabtree picking out Gudgeon getting clear on the right swings a cross into the box, Howlett defending against Wilson the ball out to the right, Berry shooting from the angle, Turnbull claiming the ball at her near post. The game played in good spirits Brettvale giving it a go winning a free kick wide on the right. Dunnett going to defend heading the ball on across her area, thankfully no one from Brettvale free that side to attack it. 

 Gill coming through the middle for Brettvale looking to fed it through for Lindon, Prime cutting it out. Lindon pulling right looking to take the ball on it the box is again thwarted by Hill lunging in to tackle. The game moving into the final 8 minutes Giles on the move with the ball through the middle for Brantham picks out Gudgeon breaking away on the right her early shot struck wide of the near post. 

Brantham’s Shannan Hill

  Bennett in to win the ball well for Brettvale high on the left lifts in on into the box for Lindon running though on goal the ball skipping up before her hits it on the volley annoyed with herself as the ball goes over the bar. Brettvale attacking out wide right the ball inside for Lynch from distance catches the ball sweetly sending a superb strike over the keeper crashes down off the crossbar! Brettvale giving it a go in the closing stages. 

Danielle Lynch sending a long range strike in crash down off the bar

  Gill taking the ball on right side up the line into the corner cuts it back into the area coming to Lindon inside the box goes to strike the ball across the keeper her shot crashing against the far post out to the left. 2 minutes left to play Brettvale hitting the woodwork twice in close succession. Gill’s frustrations getting the better of her as she is shown a yellow late on for a push in the back.

 Dunnett over the set-piece long to Crabtree right knocked inside for Giles, Howlett out to put in the blocking tackle top of the D rebounds back to Dunnett who drags her shot wide of the left post from 30 yards. 

Full time Brettvale Ladies 0-2 Brantham Athletic Ladies

 Brantham winning the 3 points to end their season on a positive note coming up against a stubborn Brettvale down to 9 players in the 2nd half, got the job done scoring a 2nd goal rode their luck a little bit late on, Dunnett with a superb finish to double their lead will be encouraged by performances in the 2nd half of the campaign as they prepare for the new season. Brettvale knowing they’d be up against it ending the season in good spirits nonetheless starting with 10, then down to 9 early in the 2nd half battled well, creating chances with the woodwork struck twice at the death. Time to rest and get some of their injured players back for the new season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As is sometimes the case you have an idea before the game in written up who it will be but the notes often bring someone else to the fore. Several good performances to note of course, Brettvale battling with 10 then down to 9 putting in a shift. Deban Howlett standing out in defence winning the ball and getting about to defend the back line. Jess Gill getting about the park looking to win the ball get forwards and doing her fair share of defending too. For Brantham, Harriet Young put herself about in midfield get the ball into the attackers. Chloe Wilson making some great runs through the middle took her goal well. Jess Prime at the back with some great tackles. Shannan Hill excellent at the back too getting across the defence to win the ball putting in some great tackles. The award though goes to the captain Lucy Dunnett. Her range of passing excellent finding players in attack and from set-pieces, hitting the woodwork twice herself always a threat if allowed a strike from distance as the 2nd goal proved.

  Good to see both sides in action at the close of their season’s an entertaining contest both sides in good spirits my thanks to both for their help with the team details, sending my best wishes to the injured players. Getting to explore the back roads of Suffolk with the A12 being closed think the car will be glad when the season’s over…

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – East Bergholt United Ladies v Brettvale Women

Sunday 18th September

FA Women’s Cup 1st Round Qualifying

A trip to Suffolk this Sunday for a game from the opening fixtures of this season’s FA Women’s Cup, East Bergholt United Ladies taking on local rivals Brettvale Women in 1st Round Qualifying.

 The start of the competition delayed by a weekend due to fixtures being suspended as a mark of respect after the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II at 96 years of age Britain’s longest reigning monarch and the only one most of us have ever known a grandmother to us all her loss deeply felt. Serving with dignity and devotion a minutes silence will prelude today’s match as with every other across the land.

 The FA Women’s Cup recieving a significant boost in prize money this season adding a huge incentive to the 438 clubs entering and a run in the cup will be a huge boost to a grassroots clubs coffers with today’s winners receiving £1,800 a jump of £1,400 from the previous season with the losing side receiving £450.  Still a long way from the men’s competition but nevertheless a huge incentive for clubs to want to win through to the next round. Not only that the the competition itself still holds great respect for clubs and is recognised around the world not only England and one of the premier cup competitions. The first  step to Wembley.

Tier 6 side East Bergholt United Ladies enjoying a good start to the season starting their league campaign in ERWFL Division One South with 2 wins from 3 to lay 3rd in the very early league table. Fair to say the club has found life tough in the ERWFL since promotion from the Suffolk Women’s County League in 2019. The Covid hit season’s playing there part have struggled for numbers at times in a strong catchment area for players, but have always been a club with a strong youth policy keen to test themselves at a higher level are starting to reap the rewards. Jordan Giddings coming in as 1st team manager,  thing’s looking positive with a good sized squad at their disposal are looking to push on this season with a run in the FA Women’s Cup an added bonus.

For Brettvale Women this is their first competitive game of the season with their county league season yet to get underway. Defending champions in the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division will be strong favourites to retain that title have a very experienced squad. Just 7 teams in the Premier Division with only 6 in the Championship below with 3 late withdrawals recruitment of players does appear to be an issue within the county with Suffolk a long way behind the rest of the counties in the East in terms of women’s sides. An issue certainly, however Essex suffered a similar situation a few seasons back and has come back stronger than ever. Not the bounce from the Euro’s that might have been expected but hopefully that growth will come. In the meantime Brettvale have become an established force within the county in a short space of time now starting a new U13s side as they themselves look to the future.

Gandish Road Playing Field the venue for today’s game the community sports facility offering number of grass pitches, and cricket square. A open space is somewhat exposed to the elements a strong breeze blowing across the pitch from end to end prior to kick-off, a few dark clouds around but no rain forecast. Hot drinks available from the clubhouse. Arrived a bit later due to the A14 being closed but set up in time for kick-off having had a chance to meet both teams.  

East Bergholt United Ladies

 East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Zoe Adams, Shannon Cameron, Jess Clarke, Ella  Karkoska, Harriet Meers, Megan Partridge (C), Millie Wilding, Stacey Desborough, Jess Quinsee, Jade Horne & Vic Hall. Subs – Nicole Leppard, Katie Bruce, & Charlie Roach-Smith.

Brettvale Women

 Brettvale Ladies starting XI – Faye Lunn, Chloe Stopher, Coral Young, Kirby King, Rachel White, Robyn McEvoy, Amy Parton, Claire Turnbull (C), Amie Chippendale, Laura Tuley & Tarnya McKew. Subs – Kat Parnell, Leila Poulter, Georgia Lindon, Kristie Turner & Danni Lynch.

A minutes silence held before kick-off in respect and remembrance of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Our longest reigning Monarch may she rest in peace.

  It’s the hosts East Bergholt to get the 1st half underway, wearing green coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks with Brettvale lined up opposite wearing blue shirts fading to sky blue, blue shirts with sky blue trim and sky blue socks. The wind has really picked up in the minutes leading up to kick-off with the sky darkening as strong as it blows from one goal to the other, favouring Brettvale as the ball is played back to East Bergholt captain, Megan Partridge in midfield is brought down as she plays the ball an early free-kick for the hosts played out to left back Jess Clark goes forwards playing a one two with Jess Quinsee out with Kirby King comes across to close Clark down send the ball out for a throw in.

 GOAL! A frantic start to the game the ball played on East Bergholt looking to press loose possession, Brettvale turning play around the pass sent out to Amie Chippendale wide right she in turn releasing it forwards quickly over the top with Coral Young peeling in behind on the wing getting hold of the ball as she runs into the box wide on the by-line digs a cross out slicing the ball high over the keepers head at the near post the ball dropping beyond a combination of wind and the spin on the ball seeing it rise up to cross the line drop into the goal 0-1.

  A goal inside the opening 2 minutes for the visitors. East Bergholt looking out of sorts in the early exchanges sloppy on the ball giving away a corner. Played into captain Claire Turnbull top of the area leaning back as she attempts the shot, the ball cleared, Brettvale snapping in to prevent a break get the ball turned around out to Chippendale wide right finds the corner taker Tarnya McKew out wide top of the area her cross into the area wide at the far post.

Brettvale’s Amie Chippendale

  Players closing each other down in the middle, time on the ball at a premium, Partridge breaking forwards gets clear of the centre backs the ball lifted on through the middle into her feet she bears down on the top of the area, goalkeeper, Faye Lunn already there staying big arms out makes a strong blocking save as Partridge strikes the ball, the rebound falling to Jade Horne to the right her 1st time effort on target but lacking the pace to beat Lunn having gotten back into her six yard box to catch the ball. 

  Is an open game as East Bergholt look to get forwards Brettvale are quick to get on the counter McKew up top looking to be the target player, a corner won on the right. Flighted into the middle of the box, Chippendale rising unopposed to head the ball in towards goal, dropping, East Bergholt goalkeeper, Zoe Adams with a sharp save beating the ball away to her right, her defence scrambling it clear at the far post. 

Amie Chippendale heading the ball towards goal

  Brettvale working hard to press the ball are forcing mistakes from East Bergholt as they look to get on the attack Amy Parton finds McKew up top, another corner won on the right the delivery defended at the near post. The wind affecting the flight of the ball at times better left on the ground the pitch is fairly hard which too is affecting the bounce making control tricky Turnbull fouled a free-kick for Brettvale 30 plus yards out to the right of goal. Chippendale’s shot sent in on target not troubling Adams. Partridge going forwards linking up with Millie Wilding the ball forwards into Vic Hall in attack, King getting the foot in to take the ball away from her, on the counter, McKew pulled up for offside as she pulls of the shoulder of the centre back too soon. 

 

East Bergholt’s Vic Hall

Brettvale’s Chloe Stopher

  Play largely in the East Bergholt half as the visitors win back the ball frustration for the hosts who have not settled into any rhythm. Robyn McEvoy on the ball for Brettvale 30 yards out with a speculative attempt on goal wind assisted dips late almost catching Adams out is saved by the cross bar as the ball cannons off it away to the left. Stacey Desborough turning in the middle attempts to play the ball on for Horne on the right wing, Rachel White stretching into the challenge to put the ball away for a throw.

Brettvale’s Rachel White

  Conditions making the ball lively wrong footing players as they look to get it under control both sides affected. 20 minutes played Brettvale get on down the left Laura Tuley winning a corner. An inswinging delivery near post, Adams getting her fists to it to punch the ball away. Tuley left of goal hooking her shot over the bar. Players drawn to the right of the pitch as Horne presses on with the ball whipping a cross into the D, Chippendale tracking back cutting it out for Brettvale. 

  The visitors on the attack left side Tuley’s early cross into Chippendale 20 yards out right of the D, headed down into the area for McKew left, looking to get onto it get a shot away, Harriet Meers with her for East Bergholt, great defending from the centre back strong to hold off the attacker seeing the ball out of play well.  A bit more urgency creeping into East Bergholt’s game as they look to get the ball on up the pitch quicker, King and White both intercepting the final ball inside their area. The risk they get hit on the counter, but so far Meers and fellow centre back Ella Karkoska are holding a good line catching McKew offside again. 

East Bergholt’s Jess Clark

  A few knocks being taken out there the pitch is unforgiving a hard landing guaranteed. Clarke moving into space on the left sets her sights from all of 35 yards out a viciously hit ball, Lunn scrambling across her goal, is safe as it races wide of the left upright. McEvoy on for Chippendale right side closing in on the top of the area turn inside, Karkoska across to block her cross, Chippendale with a 2nd bite plays the ball low into the six yard box gathered by the keeper. 

East Bergholt captain, Megan Partridge on the attack

  Half an hour played East Bergholt getting the ball forwards, Brettvale defending deeper making it hard to get in behind the right pass could open then up as Partridge brings the ball on, Quinsee and Wilding up with her, the ball into Hall looking to turn, King getting a foot in to take the ball off her feet. McKew is pulled up for a handball inside the D as she looks to get the better of the East Bergholt centrebacks as Chippendale flicks the ball on. Partridge making some strong runs on the ball from midfield, taking the ball out to the left has Clark up in support plays the pass into her the full back putting it inside for Wilding left of the D, turning attempts to drive into the area, King closing her down forcing her wide before clearing.

Brettvale’s Kirby King

  The open nature of the game see’s one East Bergholt attack quickly turning into a counter for Brettvale, Karkoska is exposed at the back with McKew putting her under pressure to get the bouncing ball dealt with, cool with it does well to play it to safety. McKew is putting in alot of running up top for Brettvale pulling into the channels always ready to receive the ball, her cross from the right, deflected behind by Meers for a corner.

 East Bergholt with another killer pass through the middle setting there attacker through on goal, Lunn as she has all game out to the top of her area spreading her limbs as she makes the blocking save the ball spinning out to the right struck 1st time frustration as it spins away from the open goal wide. East Bergholt applying the pressure late the the 1st half winning their fair share of the 50/50 balls looking to get it moving forwards. Young with an attempt from distance keeping the hosts on their toes as it drops over the bar. 

Half-time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Brettvale Women

1-0 the advantage for Brettvale at the break. Coral Young’s cross spinning over the line in the 2nd minute the difference between the sides, Both goalkeepers called into action to make saves to keep the ball out. Brettvale starting the better getting after East Bergholt to press the ball take the game to them for large portions. The hosts looking unsettled taking a while to find their stride, looked better moving the ball quicker ending the half strongly. The conditions not helping with ball control with neither side getting it down and controlling proceedings has led to an open contest, certainly a derby feel to it and with a single goal in it still all to play for.

  Looks like both sides are still the same at the start of the 2nd half, both used to roll on roll off substitutes the FA Women’s Cup with three substitutes meaning changes have to be more calculated. Brettvale too playing their first competitive match will they begin to tire as the 2nd half wears on. The windy conditions in theory favouring East Bergholt 2nd half if they can find a way to exploit them, Brettvale defending deeper trying not to let anything in behind. It’s Brettvale to get the 2nd half underway. Played back into McEvoy in midfield out to the right, the ball lost out of play.

Brettvale attacker, Tarnya McKew

  McKew looking to get hold of the ball turn in behind as it comes to her left channel, Karkoska forcing her wide as Cameron gets back to help her out regain possession for East Bergholt. Coming right the hosts win a corner kick. The ball fizzed in near post is missed by Lunn as she goes to punch, drops for Desborough in the six yard box is quickly closed down, as she goes to strike the ball, hurt in the exchange as Lunn gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Desborough staying down needs treatment is slow to get to her feet but okay to continue. 

 East Bergholt’s Partridge finding room in the middle plays a great pass forwards for Horne releasing the attacker outside the D in behind turns on the ball, Lunn with a starting position often at the top of her area moves up sharply outside to get her foot through the ball to clear out for a throw right. Brettvale winning a free-kick wide left inside the East Bergholt half, McEvoy to play it in a teasing ball into the box bouncing in front of the keeper, Adams taking it cleanly despite runners going for it. Desborough is struggling from her earlier fall and needs to come of East Bergholt making the change bringing on Katie Bruce. Have been a few strong challenges put in from both sides all good natured so far but totting up the referee having a word with Partridge as Chippendale is brought down,

Brettvale goalkeeper, Faye Lunn

  Play is stretched the game open one end to the other a cup tie, East Bergholt coming left Bruce crossing the ball intercepted in the middle by McEvoy cleared up field helped on for McKew to attack right channel, Adams out of her area to clear. Cameron playing a long ball up the right finding Horne out right outside the box sends in a low shot on the angle, Lunn getting down on her line to smother the ball. Moments later Horne is again played in on the right of the D pulling of the last defender to shoot, her strike driven wide of the right post. 

East Bergholt’s Katie Bruce with Brettvale captain, Claire Turnbull

  East Bergholt starting to see more of the ball, Brettvale beginning to tire McKew with the rallying cry continues to get about the pitch in the final 3rd. East Bergholt with a 2nd change, Nicole Leppard coming on in attack for Hall. McKew is caught offside yet again more valuable seconds used up. The game remains open Brettvale knowing they can’t sit back and let East Bergholt come at them need a 2nd goal as much as their opponents need to equalise. Cameron cutting the ball out denying Tuley down the line as McEvoy looks to play her in. 

  Partridge seeing the ball into her feet well 25 yards out central for East Bergholt sliding it into Wilding  right of the D, her 1st time effort blocked by Young going away for a corner. Put into the area from the right a hand ball spotted by referee, Thomas Ling the free-kick going to Brettvale. Wilding battling for the ball central with Quinsee played up top for Leppard to go after, Lunn out to clear put right a corner won. Played in centrally, Karkoska rising gets her head on it but can’t direct on target back to the corner taker closing inside flashes her cross wide across the face of goal.

  Turnbull with a late challenge on Cameron, East Bergholt with the free-kick out wide right. Clark on it, an acute angle but nevertheless goes for goal curling the ball in with a left foot strike over Lunn as she goes for it near post drops onto the cross bar spinning away to the left where Brettvale give away another set-piece. Partridge on this one fired in waist height to the near post, Lunn across taking the ball into her midriff. A change for Brettvale Stopher coming off to be replaced by Kat Parnell.

East Bergholt’s Millie Wilding

  East Bergholt getting players on Cameron and Clark looking to press on from full back to bolster the attack with the clock running down. Tuley does well to regain possession on the left for Brettvale sending the ball on up top for McKew to chase down, Karkoska doing well to win the ball as she get’s round on the cover to clear. Brettvale are tiring a few knocks being picked up, working hard to chase the ball. McEvoy coming across to support Turnbull. Tuley off for the visitors with Georgia Lindon coming on as they look to push on for the final 10 minutes of regular play. 

 Meers with a vital header to win the ball at the back for East Bergholt as Chippendale looks to capitalise in the middle off McKew’s knock on. Soon after McKew herself fires a shot over from the top of the area as East Bergholt fail to clear. Getting a bit feisty late on, McEvoy shown a yellow card. Parnell bursting forwards strong on the ball winning a throw in high. Played into McKew, Karkoska in close stretching to get a foot on the ball as she attempts to hold it up. The hosts attacking left, Wilding and Quinsee looking to combine exchanging passes as they close in on the box, Brettvale closing in to scramble it away.

East Bergholt’s Harriet Meers

  Clark picking up a yellow card for East Bergholt. East Bergholt pressing forwards on the right a cross from the corner, drops to Quinsee clear at the far post six yards out, is this the moment the equaliser is found, NO as the header is agonisingly placed wide of the far post.

  Brettvale are battling hard late on looking to hold onto their narrow lead, Parnell has picked up a knock and struggling has to come off, on in her place going into the back line is Danni Lynch. Lynch able to bring the ball on from the back left side played inside to Chippendale who turning attempts to play it into the feet of McKew pulling into the area from the right, Karkoska going with her shielding the ball well to see it back to her keeper.

  Into stoppage time, Turnbull is down struggling with cramp in her calf, running it off not the most pleasant thing to do but there’s a game to see out. King has been solid at the back throughout for Brettvale and does well as she goes with Wilding as Partridge puts her in through the middle to defend for the visitors who celebrate as the final whistle blows and it’s Brettvale who progress in this season’s FA Women’s Cup. 

East Bergholt’s Nicole Leppard tackled by Brettvale goal scorer, Coral Young

Full time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Brettvale Women

  A trip to Norfolk for Brettvale in 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup to play Division One side, Sprowston FC Women on Sunday 2nd October. Coral Young’s 2nd minute goal proving the difference between the sides in the finish. Brettvale holding on to their advantage to win through to the next round. Were pushed hard by East Bergholt in the 2nd half who came close to finding the equalising goal the woodwork struck just wasn’t to be their day. Brettvale working hard until the final whistle to hold on for the win looking for a much needed 2nd goal themselves. The time open to the end. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. This is another tough one to call some strong contenders out their and a few performances of note to mention. Firstly for East Bergholt, Megan Partridge with some great tackling and midfield runs looking to create openings for her side. Centre backs Harriet Meers and Ella Karkoska with some vital tackles at the back to ensure the game was never settled. For Brettvale, Amie Chippendale was strong out on the right winning the ball and getting forwards to support McKew in attack. Tarnya McKew herself was fantastic leading the line, a constant outlet for any forward pass showing good movement across the final 3rd and creating opportunities throughout the game. Is narrowly pipped to today’s award by defender Kirby King was brilliant at the back rarely out of position getting in to win the ball as East Bergholt tried all they could to find a way through the middle full of running around on the cover well as play was stretched late on.

  Another enjoyable game from Suffolk, didn’t think there would be much between the sides and that would result in a proper cup tie wasn’t disappointed. Good to catch up with a few familiar faces and my thanks to both sides for their assistance today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Stowupland Falcons Women v Brettvale Ladies

Sunday 21st November

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

 Another venture into Suffolk this Sunday to watch a game from the 2nd Round of the Women’s County Cup and a look at two new sides for the first time as Stowupland Falcons Women play Brettvale Ladies.

 The competition dominated by Suffolk’s leading women’s football side over the past decade with Ipswich Town Women winning the County Cup for the 7th successive season last time around their Development defeating Needham Market Women 6-0. Guaranteed to be a new name on the trophy this season with Ipswich withdrawing a side from the competition. That in itself seeing a huge shift in the County Cup as other established and up and coming sides within the county see there chances of reaching the final greatly enhanced.

 Stowupland Falcons Women an emerging force in female game entering a women’s side for the first time last season. The club aiming to become a leading force for grassroots football in Suffolk running 4 adult sides aswell as a strong youth section that has amongst it’s ranks an U11, U13 & U16 girls side. The original side entering in 2020/21 Stowupland Falcons U18 Girls joining as the SWGFL expanded to feature two divisions. Going straight into the Premier Division were laying 4th with 3 wins from their 7 games played before the COVID pandemic saw a season successive season curtailed. The league once again featuring two divisions sides withdrawing however sees the Premier Division reduced to 7 sides. A tough start for Stowupland losing their opening 3 matches have since rallied to draw, then win their first game of the season 5-3 at home to Brantham Athletic Ladies with new signing Kirsten Hutchings who has a strong goal scoring record within the league netting 4 goals.   

 Brettvale Ladies joining the league in the 2018/19 campaign have already ticked off a County Cup final appearance. Reaching the 2019/20 final where lay like so many others were beaten by Ipswich Town Women’s young development side 7-0. The final delayed due to the COVID pandemic Suffolk FA ensuring the game was played the following season. Brettvale recruiting a strong squad with plenty of playing experience within Suffolk and the regional set up above. COVID no doubt affecting the clubs development as it has for alot of clubs. Have made an excellent start to this season’s campaign winning all 4 of their league matches to lay 2nd in the table a point behind Holland Ladies. Stacey Teager top scorer with 4 goals in 4 league appearances, Laura Tuley with 3 goals from 4. 

Todays venue the Stowupland Sports & Social Club. The pitches beyond the clubhouse and changing rooms. A large area featuring numerous grass pitches with an area turned over to cricket in the summer. Today’s pitch featuring a picturesque scene off a church behind one goal. Rain blowing through dark clouds before kick-off blustery and chilly, not deal as I’d have preferred to be close to the hedge on the far side for some protection but that would have meant looking into the low sun which would pose problems for those playing too. The wind blowing from one goal mouth to the other also a potential factor to weigh up. 

Stowupland Falcons Women

Stowupland Falcons Women starting XI – Abbi Goodenough, Emily Bates, Milly Gant, Abby Durrant, Ebonie Calvert (C), Kim Edwards Evie Bloom Ella Edwards, Amelia Skeggs, Laura Brame & Sarah Harrison. Subs- Kirsten Hutchings & Simona Bieniauskaite. 

Brettvale Ladies

 Brettvale Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Rachel White, Chloe Wilson, Danielle Lynch, Kirby King, Claire Turnbull (C), Coral Young, Sheryl Nokes, Harriet Young, Georgia Lindon & Laura Tuley. Subs – Aimee Berry, Rachel Linsdell, Kristie Turner & Sophie White. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s the visiting side Brettvale to kick-off the first half wearing a navy and sky blue coloured shirts, navy shorts and sky blue socks with Stowupland opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence out to Rachel White on the right sends t up the line for Georgia Lindon to hunt down, full back Milly Gant coming across to challenge put the ball out for a throw in. 

Milly Gant moving in to tackle Brettvale’s Georgia Lindon

   Tentative early exchanges the ball moving quickly players from both sides closing down play spread out to the right Stowupland on the move with Laura Brame taking the ball up the line her cross into the box dealt with by Brettvale defender Danielle Lynch. Brettvale play the ball out from the back White on for Lindon right side squares the ball central for her captain Claire Turnbull 30 yards out before spinning in behind Turnbull threading a superb ball into the area for Lindon to attack, Stowupland’s captain tracking across to tackle Lindon before she can unleash a shot inside the six yard box. Players all concerned about balls coming in from the right with the sun in their faces.

Stowupland’s Kim Edwards

   Laura Tuley from the angle off a throw on the right tries an ambitious effort on goals her attempted shot running wide beyond the far post. Brettvale are looking to release Lindon on the right at every opportunity, has pace the ball lifted into her twists inside pushing towards the area, Gant closing in to put in the challenge the ball out for a throw. The visitors work the ball free from the set-piece to lift a cross into the box, Stowupland keeper Abbi Goodenough getting her gloves on the ball. A good tempo being set the ball never still Turnbull clipping a diagonal ball into Lindon right side, Gant once again defending the hosts breaking out from the ball Amelia Skeggs with a long pass out to the right, defended a throw won in the corner. From it a cross is delivered into the area Kirby King up to head the ball near post, with Stowupland’s Sarah Harrison drifting in behind.

   Brettvale are awarded a free-kick wide on the right, Harriet Young over the ball played in towards the top of the area attacked turned in towards goal low on target but pops up straight into Goodenough’s gloves. Coral Young seeing the ball into her feet central for Brettvale flicking it out to the left channel for Chloe Wilson 20 yards out has a stab at goal the shot sent wide. Gant travelling with the ball left side on for Harrison to attack up the line, White comes sliding in to take the ball away from her for a throw. On the opposite flank Emily Bates comes on support from Skeggs and Evie Bloom the ball crossed into the Brettvale box King with the defensive header to clear. The ball hotly contested in the middle, Kim Edwards tackling Young to regain possession.

 The hosts applying pressure in the final 3rd winning a corner on the right. The delivery short into the box near side flicked into the six yard box, Brettvale struggle to get it away from the moment as Stowupland get players in amongst them, Harriet Young eventually lifting it high upfield. Wilson on the left for Brettvale storms forwards with the ball, Bates getting in shoulder to shoulder easing her off the ball. Brame getting into the right corner with the ball turns inside Sheryl Nokes lunges in to take the ball out for a throw. Stowupland get a cross into the area from it, King needing to get her head on the ball once more near post to deny Harrison an opportunity running in central.

Brettvale defender, Kirby King

  Calvert with a vita interception at the back for Stowupland as Tuley gathering the ball in midfield looks to send Lindon through in behind. Tuley drifting out to the right holding the ball up is  fouled as she looks to spin in behind her marker the visitors awarded a free-kick. 

Harriet Young over the free-kick

 GOAL! Harriet Young over the ball close to the touch-line half way inside the Stowupland half players up from the back lining up to make runs into the box, Young struck well rising up into the air a dangerous ball into the box, the sun at her back could well pose problems for those facing the ball including the goalkeeper, is a fantastic ball in however and dropping Goodenough goes up for it but is beyond her reach and it dips under the bar and lands in the back of the net for Young’s first goal of the season 0-1.

Harriet Young’s free-kick goes in over the keeper.

18 minutes played and the visitors take the lead. Stowupland look to make ground on the left from the restart, the notepad collecting some Suffolk mud as I use it to stop the ball running out of play. Brame on the turn shifts the ball between her feet fouled as she looks to put Harrison away into the box no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. A similar position from where Brettvale scored moments ago. The delivery launched high into the box allowed to drop amongst bodies at the far post, players from both sides scrambling for it, Brettvale come away with it up into Tuley spreads play right for Lindon, doesn’t get far before Gant is back on her to tackle.

 A change for Stowupland, Harrison off for Kirsten Hutchings in attack. Brettvale have increased their urgency in the final 3rd getting runners on from midfield to support the attack, Coral Young into Tuley central, Abby Durrant closing in to challenge top of the D. Ellie Bird coming out quickly to the edge of her area to catch the ball cleanly as Hutchings right channel look to hook it on from an Evie Bloom cross on the wing. Bird’s opposing number Goodenough racing out to the top of her area to clear as Turnbull lays the ball though for the advancing Coral Young. 

  Hutchings coming for the ball right sees it rolled into her path shooting early on the angle a low drive racing wide through the six yard box. Brettvale make a change Wilson coming off on comes Aimee Berry. Stowupland win a set-piece on the right side of the area, Skeggs to take long to the far post headed out to the top of the area not clear, Calvart goes after it seeing her strike blocked the ball angling away for a throw. 

Amelia Skeggs bringing the ball on for Stowupland

 Gant into Ella Edwards central out to Skeggs moving left takes on an ambitious effort from all of 30 yards out the shot racing wide low across the Brettvale area. Brettvale continue to press in numbers forcing the Stowupland defence deep into there box, defend well but getting out is tricky with so many back. White regaining possession into the middle play put out to the left Berry forwards riding a challenge the cross in cleared, play stopped with a Stowupland player down on the far side. 

Brettvale’s Kirby King with Stowupland’s Ella Edwards

 Bloom can’t continue and is carried off the pitch, on comes Simona Bieniauskaite slotting into the left back position. 10 minutes left in the first half. Brettvale press the attack Nokes on the left outside the area allowed to come inside with the ball sees two strikes at goal blocked at close range the 2nd by one of her own players. Ella Edwards up the right for Stowupland crosses into the Brettvale area Harriet Young rising to head clear for the visitors. 

  This being the 451st game I’ve done a report for and the 1st tie this has happened, haven’t seen many players sin binned as it is so to see two go off in quick succession is a first! It all starts with Tuley gathering the ball into her feet on the left moving on Bieniauskaite getting on her shoulder the two battling for the ball go over, the free-kick going in favour of Stowupland, Tuley isn’t happy voices those complaints and is shown a yellow and sent to the side lines. As this is happening the referee clearly hasn’t liked what Coral Young has said and she two is shown a yellow and sent to the sides lines two! Brettvale down to 9 for the next 10 minutes of the game. 

Sinbinned Coral Young and Laura Tuley to sit out the game for 10 minutes

 Brettvale quickly regrouping into two banks of four to see out the half. Stowupland have the player advantage can they make it count. Brame on the right up the line wrapping her foot around the ball is headed clear of the box by Lynch. Brame coming out to the left flicks it on for Hutchings central, turns towards the area, straight into Lynch who holds her off, clearing the ball for a throw on the left. When they can Brettvale are looking to run the ball into the corners eat up time Nokes on the left winning a corner, the visitors naturally don’t commit too many forwards. Durrant with the simple clearance. Brame through the centre for Hutchings inside the D, Bird comes racing out to meet her as King slides into challenge, Hutchings managing to stay on her feet, between defender and goalkeeper though the threat has been averted.

Half-time Stowupland Falcons Women 0-1 Brettvale Ladies

  A narrow lead for Brettvale at the break as they hold on at the end of the half with 9 players. An exciting tie played at a fast tempo the ball rarely still. Few clear cut chances though the final ball more often than no favouring the defence. Both have been solid throughout. A well struck free-kick the difference between the sides. Brettvale getting players forwards well forcing the Stowupland defence deep which has made counter attacking difficult. A single goal in the tie though all to play for in the 2nd half.

Brettvale’s 8 outfield players lining up for the 2nd half

Brettvale starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st with 9 on the field with the 10 minute penalty yet to be completed. A substitution though seeing Kristie Turner on for Lindon on the right. Stowupland unchanged. The sun low in the sky now unlikely to pose a problem the wind biting now and cloud beginning to grow darker as the hosts get the 2nd half underway. Brettvale forming two walls of four frustrating Stowupland who are rushing their passes when perhaps they can pause a little on the ball. Turnbull getting hold of it in the centre out to Berry on the left, Bieniauskaite closing her down.

Brame central collecting the ball into her feet holding off a challenge before spinning well to her left to release Hutching on the right wing her cross shot on the angle landing on the roof of the net. Hutching in the middle plays the ball out to Bates to the right, Turnbull coming across to slide in and tackle. Stowupland with a corner on the left driven in low near side deflected out to the top of the area a snap shot charged down by Brettvale. Brame trying to bring the ball down around the D set up a shot  can’t get it away before Lynch can get back on her to block. A rainbow forming in the sky beside the black cloud tells me rain in imminent.

Brettvale’s Danielle Lynch moving in to block Laura Brame’s incoming shot

More drama as another yellow card is shown and Brettvale coach Andy Parton is asked to vacate the area for 10 minutes for dissent having called for a hand ball. On the pitch however Brettvale are back to their full complement having kept Stowupland at bay with just 9 on the field. Tuley up to positioned left of the D 20 out as Berry makes a run with the ball across the D lays the ball into her feet, turns, Durrant close in blocking her shot. A few spots of rain starting to fall

Ella Edwards on the ball for Stowupland carrying it on through the middle playing the pass into Hutchings to the right drives on into the box, Lynch going with her blocking her cross to divert the ball behind for a corner. The set-piece fired on low at the near post turned behind for a goal kick.

Stowupland captain, Ebonie Calvert

Penalty! Brettvale have a throw on the left high up the pitch put into Tuley’s feet back to goal outside the box, is strong turns getting into the area, where she is tripped by Calvert before she can get a shot away the referee pointing to the spot. Tuley placing the ball to take it. gets plenty of power behind the ball but too much height as she shot cannons down off the crossbar and a foul is spotted before anyone can go after the rebound.

Laura Tuley’s penalty hitting the crossbar

The rain falling heavily now a pain as I need the umbrella, but a notepad, camera, umbrella and wind are a bad combination the umbrella escaping for a moment needing rescuing the joys of grassroots football. The game has developed into a series of free-kicks given away by both sides as they look to hustle the ball. Turnbull in particular getting about the pitch to break up play.

Brame looking to combine with Hutchings up top the latter moving about not staying on one defender for long. Ella Edwards with a good pass into Brame central looks to shift to the right move in behind to shoot, is quickly closed down by both Coral Young and Turnbull.

Brettvale captain, Claire Turnbull

 GOAL! Not long after they are awarded one penalty Brettvale get an opportunity from the spot again. Off a throw in high on the left the ball launched into the box left side, Brettvale players immediately appealing for handball the decision in their favour the referee pointing to the spot for a 2nd time. Kristie Turner to take it this time, keeping it low placing it wide into the bottom corner as the keeper dives the right way 0-2.

Kristie Turner doubling Brettvale’s lead from the spot

Brettvale doubling their lead midway though the 2nd half, Stowupland get straight on the attack from the restart the ball up the right a throw won into Hutchings she spins inside turning into the box sending a cross through the six yard box no one there Lynch able to clear for Brettvale. Quick to get up the other end the ball crossed into the Stowupland box headed behind for a corner by Calvert. The set play driven in near post attacked, deflected behind for a goal kick.

 

Turner with a strike from distance on the angle some 30 yards out races wide across goal. Tuley soon after from a similar angle 25 yards out driven on low has Goodenough scrambling across her goal diving must have gotten fingertips to it as it runs wide a corner awarded. from the left dropping down in the six yard box at the far post squirms free for Tuley unmarked 10 yards out sends her 1st time strike over the top.

  GOAL! Stowupland get themselves back into the game pulling a goal back 5 minutes after falling 2 behind. Gant with a fantastic ball forwards from the left into Brame 30 yards out left of the D turns and lobs the advancing keeper to score 1-2.

Laura Brame pulls it back to 2-1 for Stowupland

 The goal giving Stowupland renewed confidence as they push players forwards hustling the ball in the final 3rd. Hutchings nicking it off the full back spinning in behind on the right squares it central for Brame, who helps it on looking to put it on a plate for the advancing Kim Edwards, Turnbull putting in a superb tackle to take the ball away to the left, Skeggs forcing a throw in the pressure staying on Bates moves in central with the ball seeing a shot blocked from 20 yards out.

Stowupland’s Milly Gant

 Gant in a central position from a deep position lifting a long ball in towards the far post, Bird scrambling across her goal dropping on it far post. Nokes left on for Berry, takes on Bieniauskaite the full back forcing her wide preventing a cross coming in. as the game moves into the final 15 minutes. Coral Young 30 yards out passes to Harriet Young on her right 30 yards out allowed time and space to line up a strike sends her effort over the bar. 

 

  Turnbull winning a free-kick for Brettvale after a strong run on the right outside the box, fired in at an inviting height through the six yard box Berry closing in at the far post can’t quite get anything on it. The ball still in play retrieved by Berry her cross in central Turnbull laying it off for Coral Young to clip over. 

 GOAL! Brettvale are awarded a free-kick inside their own half. Lynch over the ball as players go forwards. Is a miscue not the ball she intended but even as she lambasts herself it turns into a fantastic assist for Tuley. Intending to play it high to the right instead it is scuffed low central nevertheless catches the defence flat footed the ball in behind Tuley inside the D alert latching onto it taking it left turns back inside onto her right opening up her body to lift the ball past the keeper into the top corner 1-3.

Laura Tuley scores to give Brettvale a 3-1 lead

Less than 10 minutes on the clock Stowupland make a change bringing Harrison back on for Bieniauskaite. Light is fading fast as Stowupland win a corner on the left goes long put back in on the right by Skeggs cleared by King, out to Lindon on the right drives on into the area before giving away a foul against Gant.

 GOAL! Stowupland committing players forwards as they look for a goal are hit on the break the ball cleared out of defence into Turnbull in the middle releases it early for Tuley in attack to have a clear run at the box closing in on the keeper producing a clinical finish shooting low to place it in the bottom corner 1-4.

Two quick fire goal seeing Brettvale take control of the tie with less than 10 minutes left. Stowupland keep up their attacking play the ball pushed into Brame in the left channel turns inside king coming to close her down. A triple switch for Brettvale sees White, Harriet Young and Tuley replaced by Wilson, Sophie White and Rachel Linsdell. Ella Edwards fouled as she looks to make progress on the right for Stowupland the hosts with a free-kick inside for Bates central goes forwards is tackled 25 out by Linsdell, then a shot his blasted wide from distance.

  Into the final minutes Stowupland pressing a free-kick right side in from deep Sophie White heading it clear at the far post. Seconds left as Linsdell gets it out to Lindon on the right powers her way into the box before being tackled by Gant. The final whistle blows and Brettvale progress to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup quarter finals.

Full time Stowupland Falcons Women 1-4 Brettvale Ladies

  An entertaining cup tie that sees Brettvale progress with a 4-1 win, 2 late goals ensuring the result after a brief fightback from Stowupland after they got it back to 2-1. A even contest for much of the 1st half with both sides quick to close the other down few chances created Brettvale with the narrow lead at the break ending the half and starting the 2nd with 9 on the pitch, their game management then was superb with Stowupland failing to take advantage. A missed penalty but a 2nd opportunity taken from the spot midway through the 2nd half. Stowupland though pulling it back to 2-1 for a little while it was certainly game on before Brettvale took control with two quick goals from Tuley to ensure the result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances of note to mention first though. For Stowupland, Milly Gant had a excellent game at left back, certainly an area Brettvale were looking to exploit they got little joy with Gant putting in some good tackles. Laura Brame showing good movement and positioning linking up the attack and midfield well. For Brettvale, Kirby King was excellent in defence with a number of vital headers and tackles. Laura Tuley up top late on with two clinical finishes. The award though goes to Brettvale captain, Claire Turnbull was strong in the middle throughout and getting about the pitch to make tackles and break up play. Organised the team well when they were forced down to 9.

  Every game is different and that’s why I love it! An entertaining cup tie from Suffolk. Seeing two new sides for the first time although I have to say plenty of familiar faces. My thanks to both sides for their assistance today as always it is much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham