Tag Archives: Cambridge United WFC

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Barnsley FC Women

Sunday 25th February

FAWNL League Plate

Heading over to St Neots this Sunday afternoon to watch Cambridge United WFC play in a huge game, playing for the opportunity to reach a National League final as they take on Barnsley FC Women in the semi-final of the FAWNL League Plate.

A fantastic opportunity for both sides having played their way into the last 4 of the competition along side Exeter City Women and Derby County Women who are contesting the other semi-final. A Determining Round taking place between all the sides competing in the FAWNL representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid with the winning sides going on to compete for the League Cup the losing sides going on to play for the League Plate.

Cambridge United WFC climbing up to 5th in the FAWNL South East Division One table with a midweek 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Women. The squad coming together well needing to adapt with the early season loss of their main attacking threat Sarah Wiltshire, pregnant with her 3rd child. Signing off with 4 goals it was a big hole to fill and Cambridge found the answer in playing Alysha Stojko-Down in a false number 9 position, quickly finding an eye for goal and scoring some important strikes along the way, 12 in total so far from 19 matches, backed up well by her follow attackers pushing off the flanks Bella Simmons scoring the winning goal in midweek moving onto 10 for the season while Ruth Fox has 7 to her name.

Well placed in the league have enjoyed a fantastic run in the League Plate beginning with with 2-1 away victory over fellow South East Division one side, Actonians Ladies in the opening round with goals from defender Rachel Kosky and Stojko-Down. Drawn at home to South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies, was likely to be a tough tie and proved to be the case with the sides drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes. Ruth Fox striking in the dying moments of extra-time to send Cambridge into the last 8. There they were drawn away to another South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Women, another close game with a single goal deciding it, Stojko-Down hitting it home to send Cambridge on into the final 4 of the competition.

 FAWNL Division One North is the only league with the FAWNL that has not featured a team on Women’s Football East (for obvious reasons) but I always like to see a new side in action and no doubt Barnsley FC Women are an ambitious side recruiting a good squad looking to win the league title and gain promotion to tier 3. Currently 2nd in the league are in a tussle for top spot with 3 others, Middlesbrough currently leading along with Durham Cestria and Hull City Ladies. Like Cambridge were in action in midweek drawing 1-1 at home to Stockport County. Emily Pierrepont their top scorer with 9 goals to her name. with both Abi Housecroft and Amy-Leigh Barringham-Beck on 6 a piece and their is a healthy number of goals spread out throughout the rest of the squad.

Barnsley beginning their FAWNL Plate campaign at home running out comfortable winners, beating Solihull Moors Women 7-0. Back at home for the 2nd Round taking on another Midlands Division One side Brooke Marsden was on target for 2 goals in a 4-0 victory, Abi Housecroft and Charlotte Stuart also scoring. The quarter finals saw them again on home soil with a tough tie against fellow title contenders Hull City, Housecroft, Stuart and Pierrepont all scoring, their opponents also scoring 3 however saw the game goal all the way to penalties, Barnsley claiming victory in the shootout 4-2 to see them drawn away to Cambridge in the semi-finals.

  Cambridge keen to get a big crowd to their home base at St Neots FC the Premier Plus Stadium within an ever increasing residential area that does boast huge potential to grow attendances and interest in the game. The grass pitch inside the stadium with a 3G pitch beside. The ground filling up nicely a good atmosphere building. The weather a little more reliable this weekend despite more midweek downpours a settled weekend, overcast and somewhat chilly the pitch in good nick as the sides walked out onto the pitch.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Rachel Kosky, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Abbie Jackson, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood, Ella Marden, Bella Simmons & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Charlotte Gillies, Harley-Jean Simpson, Serena Cobb & Ruth Fox.

Barnsley FC Women

 Barnsley FC Women starting XI – Serena Clarke (C), Alayna Millard, Katy Woodcock, Autumn Housley, Jodie Michalska, Charlotte Stuart, Ruby Jex-Oldfield, Abi Housecroft, Brooke Marsden, Emily Pierrepont & Louise Biggins. Subs – Natalie Watson, Nat Shaw, Courteney Csomor & Amy Beck.

 Both sides having players unavailable through ineligibility for the competition. Cambridge without new signing Abbi Smith on loan from Ipswich. Barnsley rotating their squad a little with a busy run of games coming up. Cambridge to get the semi-final underway kicking off the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Barnsley in their white away kit shirts and socks with black shorts. Alysha Stojko-Down playing the ball back to captain Gisela Otten who clips it long out to the right for Bella Simmons racing forwards, Barnsley seeing it out for a throw in. 

 The visitors getting hold of the ball looking to move it across their defence build patiently before sending it out to the left with Emily Pierrepont tracking inside, tackled by Cambridge’s, Lauren Rouse outside the box. Barnsley closing the ball down getting back on the offensive keeping possession on the left before the shot comes in from range, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb back on her line right behind it to catch the ball. 

Cambridge midfielder, Sammy Edgar

Shaping up to be a competitive tussle in the middle with some tough tackles coming in, Sammy Edgar never one to shy away from a tackle winning the ball back for Cambridge playing it on for Stojko-Down who is quickly closed down by Jodie Michalska before she came turn on the ball. 

  GOAL! Edgar tackling well in the middle, is cleaned out on the halfway line by the retaliatory tackle the referee awarding Cambridge the free-kick. Players going forwards as defender Abbie Jackson stands over the set-piece, struck long to the right of the D, Rachel Kosky is perfectly placed to meet it as she connects with the dropping ball to clip it up over the keeper and into the back of the net to open the scoring on 6 minutes 1-0.

Rachel Kosky runs away in celebration after firing Cambridge into the lead

  The perfect start for Cambridge who see themselves very much as the underdogs going into the game. Barnsley looking for an immediate response build strongly on their left bringing the ball on Pierrepont back up the line the shot from range held by Webb. Zoe Wood turning on the ball getting space as she comes left before lifting it on for Ella Marden to chase the Cambridge attacker looking to get in behind on the left, Charlotte Stuart getting across to slide in take the ball off her feet, Wood up with Marden the pair getting the ball back, Marden’s cross claimed by Serena Clarke captain and goalkeeper for Barnsley.

  Louise Biggins up top for Barnsley putting herself about making some useful runs across the Cambridge defence looking for the ball and to create space for her teammates to run into. Jackson getting a blocking tackle in as Ruby Jex-Oldfield sends the ball into the striker. Webb down sharply to her right to glance the ball behind conceding the corner as Barnsley send another vicious strike in from range. Fired in near side Housley coming towards the ball looks to twist her body turn her header into the six yard box, the ball attacked flies up over the crossbar.

  GOAL! Barnsley push players on the diagonal past picking out Pierrepont free on the left travelling into the area, shapes to go right before dropping her shoulder and heading for the by-line sending a low cross into the six yard box, the Cambridge defence blocking only succeeding in deflecting the ball out to Alayna Millard racing into the box to mash into the goal to level things up 1-1.

Alayna Millard levels the scores for Barnsley

  Barnsley getting themselves back on level terms just 5 minutes after conceding the opening goal. Wood again finding Marden running clear on the left the defence getting back at her the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Barnsley bring the ball on down the right winning a throw high up the pitch Housley giving Abi Housecroft the ball she turns inside looking to power her way across the top of the area, however fouls Jackson in the process giving Cambridge the free-kick. Housley on the move with the ball right on for Woodcock, Cheal-Ferris in to close her down.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

  This is a lively contest, Barnsley looking to take the ball on, Cambridge with a nervous energy that is seeing them compete for everything in the middle, Otten into Stojko-Down looks to play in Simmons on the right, Millard closing her down to regain possession for Barnsley. A few strong tackle being pulled up both side competitive. Edgar passing the ball to Simmons on the right, Kosky getting up the wing to support Cambridge winning the throw, looking to get it into the final third, Katy Woodcock getting the tackle in Barnsley threatening to counter quickly on the right, Jackson well positioned to intercept the ball.

Barnsley’s Katy Woodcock

  Pierrepont causing Cambridge problems down the left with some forceful runs down the line and as equally prepared to track inside winning a corner on the left. The referee needing to speak to the players as they jostle for position inside the box, Stuart looking to get away from Otten as the ball curls into the six yard box, Stojko-Down winning it knocked down then again Stojko-Down snaps in with the tackle before launching the ball clear.

Alysha Stojko-Down

 Barnsley getting players on threatening to overwhelm Cambridge at times the defence putting in some vital challenges to prevent the final ball exposing Webb. Pierrepont taking the ball inside of a mazy run top corner of the area left of goal lets fly, her shot striking her own player before the referee blows up for a handball. Jex-Oldfield linking up with Woodcock coming right, Rouse coming out to close her down blocking her attempted cross.

  No quarter given both sides fighting for the ball, a frantic pace set, Michalska coming on with the ball for the visitors threading the p[ass out to the left, Millard getting up to support Pierrepont, Otten tracking back to help Kosky in defence the pair doing well to prevent anything reaching the area. 

 Barnsley moving the ball about crisply amongst themselves as Cambridge stand off, played into Autumn Housley at the back the right back goes on a surging run through the middle before threading a fantastic ball in behind the hosts defence for Brooke Marsden bursting into the right channel, after the ball, Webb comes rushing out to the top of her area to slide in and save at her feet.

Autumn Housley breaking forwards for Barnsley

Lauren Webb sliding in to claim the ball at Brooke Marsden’s feet

  Barnsley win the ball in the middle clipped long for Pierrepont in space on the left, turns inside running into the area striking the ball with her right foot through bodies escapes out to the left the ball turned home, however the goal won’t count the offside flag raised. Edgar giving away a free-kick on the left all of 30 yards out, Barnsley sending players up into the box with Marsden standing over the ball with Pierrepont the the former with step over before Pierrepont strikes the ball over the wall in towards goal, Webb getting up well to make the save turning the ball behind for the corner.

  The corner driven in at the near post, Edgar defending for the hosts. Cambridge looking to break however Barnsley regain possession sends the ball out into the right wing for Housley to whip a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, attacked by Biggins rushing in at the far post turned over the bar. Cambridge working hard doing a good job in frustrating Barnsley Wood getting free up the left linking up with Marden the cross floated into the area cleared by Michalska for Barnsley. 

Autumn Housley beating Ella Marden to the ball

 A pause in play as Housley and Jackson come together on the left as Wood looks to play the defender on. Both up okay Cambridge with the free-kick. Barnsley not hanging about quickly getting on with the game Kosky stealing possession back on the right going forwards looking for Stojko-Down, closed down by Millard. Played on for Pierrepont racing forwards on the left, Rouse coming across to defend for Cambridge.

  Stojko-Down central playing the ball to Marden left for Cambridge, crosses for Simmons racing on right of the D, the ball cut out by Stuart gets it back to her keeper. Millard getting forwards on Barnsley’s left playing the ball inside for Biggins outside the D, turns into the shot firing the ball straight into Webb’s midriff. 

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Barnsley keep pushing players on pushing Cambridge back Rouse across to deal with Pierrepont on the by-line left side the ball played back up the line for Millard 25 out comes inside rolling in on for Michalska to turn and curl a shot in towards goal, Webb leaping up making a tremendous save top getting a arm up to turn the ball away for a corner on the right. The corner delivered in with pace into the six yard box a good attacking height Stuart and Michalska for Barnsley a heavy collision between Stuart and Jackson leaving both players floored as the ball is cleared the referee quickly stopping play for the physio’s to race on to administer treatment. 

  The game paused concern for both players not moving immediately time taken, Jackson dazed, Stuart bleeding. Both up thankfully, blood on the pitch to be cleaned up as both walk to the side-lines before being allowed back on. No doubt the crowd are playing their part getting behind Cambridge looking to wind up Barnsley who having created some good chances have been unable to get their noses in front. Kosky lunging in to deny Biggins as she takes the ball inside from the left.

  Kosky with a vital interception then as Michalska driving forwards through the middle nearly picks out Pierrepont racing clear on the left. Barnsley winning a free-kick in a central position late in the half Pierrepont into the area Michalska up to head the ball across the top of the six yard box cleared to the left, the shot struck on the angle sent over the bar. Barnsley’s frustrations boiling over as Stuart talks herself into a yellow card after fouling Wood on the left.   

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Barnsley FC Women

  The game all square after the first 45 minutes a lively and combative contest, both sides competing for the ball. Cambridge taking an early lead before being quickly pinned back by the visitors. Barnsley playing the ball across the ball breaking forwards well creating some good chances to get into the lead themselves, Cambridge though defending well, Webb making some excellent saves. A lot put into the first half will be interesting to see if these energy levels can be maintained in the 2nd half.

  Getting decidedly colder as the two sides return to the field for the 2nd half, neither making any changes, extra-time and penalties to come if required as Barnsley et the 2nd period underway. The visitors playing the ball forwards pushing players on right from the start, Pierrepont picked out on the left in behind to the by-line sends the ball racing in across the face of goal, defended beyond the far post knocked back inside for Webb to snatch into her gloves.

  Barnsley setting there stall out early doors, their intention to take the game to Cambridge find an early goal to take the lead in the 2nd half breaking right the ball crossed in onto the roof of the net. Cambridge under pressure at the back, Otten and Edgar pushed back to help the defence the hosts getting the ball cleared up to Simmons in space on the right plays it inside to Stojko-Down 20 yards out right of the D, her attempted shot charged down by Michalska.

  Otten shown a yellow card after a strong tackle on Jex-Oldfield on halfway. Jex-Oldfield playing the ball up the wing for Pierrepont who turns inside to lay the ball into Millard, Stuart up with her, back to Pierrepont who wins Barnsley a corner kick. An in-swinging delivery headed clear by Jackson for Cambridge. 

Barnsley’s Charlotte Stuart with Cambridge’s Zoe Wood

Wood nipping in to take the ball back for Cambridge. Wood with some good ball control looking to twist and turn get forwards for Cambridge link up with the attacking trio. Woodcock and Michalska defending solidly for Barnsley who continue to press forwards. The heavy tackles continuing both sides giving as good as they get Cambridge’s tenacity still frustrating Barnsley. 

Barnsley’s Abi Housecroft

  Barnsley powering on down the right Marsden crossing low, Jackson running back in defence cutting out the cross carrying it behind for the corner. Cambridge defending the corners Barnsley putting in some great deliveries. The hosts getting on down the right winning a throw 25 yards out put inside to Simmons positioned top of the D, Housley throwing herself into the blocking tackle as she lines up the shot.

   Cambridge making the first change of the game bringing off Otten whose on a yellow card bringing on Serena Cobb. Barnsley with their first switch too bringing Amy Beck to replace Marsden. Rouse racing back in defence as Barnsley attack down the leg traps the cross between her legs to take it out of play for a corner. Lifted in near post a Barnsley player rising to head the ball drills her header wide past the far post. 

Emily Pierrepont continues to take the game to Cambridge

  Pierrepont dribbling inside from the left pushes the ball inside to Jex-Oldfield 25 yards out, Edgar lunging in with a firm tackle to get the ball back for Cambridge. Pierrepont heavily involved in the game pulling left seeing the ball into her feet aiming to clip it over the top send Stuart through on goal the flag up however brings an end to the move. Barnsley on top but unable to find the break through as a few spots of rain begin to fall. Pierrepont sees the ball come into her feet in a central position strikes a right foot curler in on goal from range, Webb throwing herself it it can’t get there as the ball dips smashing onto the crossbar. 

Louise Biggins getting hold of the ball for Barnsley

  GOAL! Cambridge’s opportunities to break forwards limited in the 2nd half the ball cleared on for Stojko-Down central makes a great run forwards before delivering a cutting pass in behind for Simmons to attack top of the area, Michalska sliding in with her to try and win the ball, knocked on towards goal racing past Clarke to roll over the line a fire the hosts back into the lead in the 66th minute 2-1.

Bella Simmons putting Cambridge back into the lead

  Cambridge back in front after dealing with a sustained Barnsley onslaught at the start of the 2nd half. A huge blow for Barnsley as Wood getting hold of the ball travels into the right corner holding it up well before Kosky racing beyond her is pulled up for offside. The visitors rattled making a change Natalie Watson coming on to replace Jex-Oldfield. The game opening up as Cambridge find renewed energy breaking through the middle, Wood to Stojko-Down on for Simmons in attack, a crucial interception by Millard to prevent her getting clear to attack Clarkes goal.

  Stojko-Down on the half-volley from outside the area placed straight into the keeper as Cambridge attack on the left. Watson with a heavy tackle sending Simmons to the ground earning the substitute a yellow card. The tackles keep coming Stojko-Down getting bundled over outside the area aggrieved as play goes on. Cambridge winning a corner nevertheless out on the right. In near side Clarke up to punch the ball behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd delivery into the six yard box defended by Michalska

Jodie Michalska

  Rouse the next player to go into the box as she brings Biggins down 40 yards out to the left as both turn to chase after the ball. Pierrepont over it, does have a hell of a strike on her and going for goal her attempt isn’t too far wide of the left corner. Cambridge making a change in the 79th minute bringing on Ruth Fox in place of Simmons up top.  Is a tense game now Barnsley pushing players on Cambridge nipping in to close the ball down

  GOAL! With Barnsley pushing on looking to get themselves back on level terms Cambridge winning the ball break on the left bringing the ball on players racing back to defend, the ball crossed into the box Fox central, Pierrepont getting there first gets a glancing touch on the ball can’t get it away instead presents it straight to Fox who show cool composure ( at least that’s what it looks like now doubt the heart was pounding ) as she picks her spot lifting it past the keeper and into the goal beyond immediately turning to race away in joyous celebration eventually caught by her teammates as Cambridge extend their lead with 10 minutes to play 3-1.

Ruth Fox runs in celebration after sending Cambridge into a 3-1 lead

  Barnsley respond straight away with a double switch bringing on Nat Shaw and Courteney Csomor. Falling 2 goals behind with a little over 10 minutes to play. Winning a free-kick wide on the right the ball swung into the area headed clear Cambridge look to counter Stojko-Down on for Wood who uses her experience to take the ball down into the corner at up valuable time. 

  Watson with the ball for Barnsley on for Housley travelling on down line in behind to the by-line her cross fired in across the six yard box cleared by Cheal-Ferris at the far post. Wood coming on with the ball combined with Stojko-Down as Cambridge look to keep the ball up the pitch, Michalska getting it back for the visitors up to Stuart has Housecroft inside her played out to Pierrepont on the left the cross whipped into the box cut out by Jackson for Cambridge.

  Cambridge determined in defence as Rouse clears a chipped ball forwards intended for Shaw. 

  GOAL! The game moving into stoppage time Barnsley getting themselves a free-kick inside the Cambridge half on the right, Pierrepont to play it into the area a fantastic ball cutting through the six yard box running out to the far post met by Michalska running in to turn it home from close range 3-2 game on!

Jodie Michalska pulling a goal back for Barnsley in the closing stages of the tie

  Michalska taking no time to celebrate grabbing the ball hasting back to the centre circle to get it restarted, Cambridge finding Wood on the right takes the ball into the corner, nothing silly now from the hosts keep Barnsley off the ball. Barnsley with one last push Millard on for Pierrepont wide left returns it inside for Millard to float a ball into the area attacked the header planted straight at Webb the keeper holding onto the ball.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-2 Barnsley FC Women

 The final whistle blows and Cambridge celebrate as they reach the final of this season’s FAWNL Plate. Beating Barnsley 3-2 with goals from Bella Simmons and substitute Ruth Fox in the 2nd half. Cambridge having to deal with a lot of Barnsley pressure in the 2nd period as the visitors came on strong looking to take the lead themselves looking to build on the good chances they had created in the 2nd half. Barnsley let themselves get frustrated by Cambridge’s tenacity and couldn’t get their noses in front. Cambridge had to work hard for the win and took their chances when they fell their way to set up what is sure to be a historic day for the club. The date and venue for the final to be announced. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. As with last weekends winner it’s another tough call to single out one player as it was a strong team performance all round. Several performances of note, firstly for Barnsley, Emily Pierrepont was the stand out player, worked tirelessly on the left, a ready outlet taking the ball on to the by-line or tracking infield created several good chances. Jodie Michalska strong at the back and getting forwards winning the ball and passing superbly. Autumn Housley winning the ball well at the back with several strong runs forwards. For Cambridge credit to the whole team for a battling display, were determined from the start, Abbie Jackson and Lauren Rouse with some vital tackles at the back. Rachel Kosky too as well as making some excellent attacking runs opening the scoring. Zoe Wood showing good skill on the ball got forwards well bringing others into play. Gisela Otten competing for the ball in the middle of the park getting back to help the defence. Goalkeeper Lauren Webb with some brilliant saves to keep Barnsley out n the first half. The award today though goes to the player who summed up Cambridge’s performance to a tee and that is midfielder Sammy Edgar, fought for everything getting across the park to tackle and frustrate Barnsley throughout.

  I know I’m supposed to be neutral but I do have my favourite team and it’s fantastic to see Cambridge reach a national final. Had a sneaky feeling they might. Even so the FAWNL is full of strong teams. Congratulations to Cambridge. My thanks to both sides for there help today with the teams. Best of luck to Barnsley in their hunt for the league table will keep an eye out for your results. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Worthing FC Women

Sunday 3rd December

FAWNL South East Division One

Two weeks later than originally advertised heading west into Cambridgeshire to St Neots to watch my final game of 2023, between Cambridge United WFC and Worthing FC Women in FAWNL South East Division One.

A clash between 4th and 5th in the league with Worthing FC Women moving above Cambridge United WFC winning 4-0 at home to Cambridge City Women last weekend. The two clubs enjoying a great first half to the season amongst the chasing pack looking to apply pressure to the leading pair of AFC Wimbledon Women and Norwich City Women going into the new year.

  Cambridge United WFC without last season’s top scorer Sarah Wiltshire as she announced she was pregnant with her 3rd child, at the beginning of the campaign, signing off by scoring all 4 goals in Cambridge’s 1st league win of the season. That seeing the management team having to device a new strategy for the season, and so far has paid off playing midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down as a false number 9, scoring 9 goals to date to push Cambridge United WFC into a strong position in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One table.

  Ruth Fox netting 7 goals and Bella Simmons on 6, a run of 3 wins and a draw coming to an end last time out with a narrow 3-2 loss to QPR FC Women. Building a competitive squad the club backed well by Cambridge United FC itself with a number of games to take place at the Abbey Stadium itself. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus stadium remains the clubs main home, situated in an ever growing residential area on the outskirts of the town. Winger Charlotte Gillies to most recent player to join their squad often a thorn in United’s side when playing for rival Cambridge City her pace and skill will add to the sides attacking flare.

  Worthing FC Women newly promoted to the FAWNL after winning the London & South East Premier Division last season losing just one match along the way. Managed by ex-Lewes FC Women’s manager, John Donohue assisted by Kelly Newton, who is Lewes FC Women’s record appearance holder. The South Coast side the latest addition to a number of clubs sharing rapid growth in the area. Donohue recruiting a strong squad of players from, Lewes itself with FAWNL and Championship experience, such as goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear and captain Rachel Palmer along with some ex-Portsmouth FC Women players, such as Danielle Rowe, Tierney Scott and Samantha Quayle amongst others.

  That has seen them hit the ground running as Worthing plays in the 4th tier for the 1st time, winning 5 of their 6 opening league games to put themselves right in contention with the leaders. A slight dip in results seeing them fall back down to 6th before a 4-0 home win over Cambridge City Women saw them leap frog Cambridge United back into 4th. Becki Bath leading the goal scoring charts so far this season netting 13 goals in 12 appearances while Samantha Quayle has 9 goals from 11 games.

 St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s match, the way into the stadium seeing an ever growing residential development. The ground very much in the heart of the community the main grass pitch in good condition with plenty of green offering good width. A seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms beneath and clubhouse beside the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. A cup of tea definitely needed a bitter bite to the wind blowing, but a vast improvement on last weeks WET and miserable weather. One more game for 2023, lets go…

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Rachel Kosky, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood, Ella Marden, Ruth Fox & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Natasha Collins, Niamh Day, Serena Cobb & Bella Simmons.

Worthing FC Women

 Worthing FC Women starting XI – Lauren Dolbear, Katie Young, Rachel Palmer (C), Emma Blakely, Chloe Winchester, Danielle Rowe, Tierney Scott, Chloe Humphrey, Shannon Albuery, Samantha Quayle & Becki Bath. Subs – Rebecca Bell, Niamh Anderson, Izzy Glass-Oliver, Gemma Worsfold & Katie Cooper. 

 The game rearranged from a fortnight ago, Cambridge ending the year nursing a few knocks with a few missing including midfielder, Fran Steele who has been a strong addition to the side since joining from Cambridge City this season. Gisela Otten captaining Cambridge, Rachel Palmer, Worthing joining the match officials in the middle to decide kick-off. Cambridge to get the 1st half underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Worthing in their all blue away strip lined up opposite. The ball rolled back for the midfield to play a ball out to the left with the advancing Ruth Fox the target, Katie Young instead intercepting at the back for Worthing knocked on into the middle for Danielle Rowe lays the diagonal pass out to the right for Chloe Humphrey pushing on, Lauren Rouse across to close her down the ball out for the throw in.

Worthing FC Women’s defender, Katie Young

  The throw dropped short laid back up the line for Rachel Palmer to send a deep cross in towards the top of the area, Sammy Edgar under it to head clear for Cambridge. The hosts looking to break on the left the ball played on for Fox to attack, Young though is quickly across o kick clear for Worthing. 

 GOAL! Cambridge win the ball on the right Rachel Kosky getting on up the wing to support Ella Marden the ball crossed into the six yard box, Young getting head head on it to intercept for Worthing, knocks it back out to the right of goal, falls straight to Alysha Stojko-Down and she lashes the ball back in across the face of goal to open the scoring inside the opening two minutes 1-0.

Alysha Stojko-Down firing Cambridge into the lead with her 10th goal of the season

  Worthing push players on from the restart looking to recover quickly from their early set back Tierney Scott linking up with Rowe the ball on for Shannon Albuery making a run into the box right side, Rouse getting in the challenge to take the ball away to the touchline. Zoe Wood with quick footwork taking the ball on left for Cambridge knocking it on for Fox chasing in behind taking the ball on to the by-line her cross low to the near post, adjudged to have gone behind before goalkeeper, Lauren Dolbear gets down to it.

  Cambridge with a bright start to the game lively on the flanks lose the ball on the left Worthing finding Quayle out on the wing knocks it into Albuery running into the area on the left, evading a couple of defensive challenges before squeezing a shot away on the angle, lacks the power to trouble Cambridge goalkeeper Lauren Webb as she has her angles covered getting down to claim the ball. 

Wood causing Worthing a few issues early on is brought down by Quayle the hosts awarded a free-kick. Moments later Scott fouls Cheal-Ferris as the pair tussle for possession. Proving to be a competitive tie between two sides closely placed in the top half of the table. Wood skipping free on the left with a diagonal ball long into the area looking for Stojko-Down, Dolbear can safely come out to lay claim to it. Kosky powering forwards on the right for Cambridge, Emma Blakely coming across to tackle for Worthing halting her run in the corner.

Worthing’s Emma Blakely

 Abbie Jackson with the tackle for Cambridge inside the D, as Albuery seeing the ball into her feet looks to turn into the box. Young on the ball at the back for Worthing time to look up pick her pass sends a dangerous diagonal ball forwards with Humphrey making a run into the area, Kosky tracking back with her the pair tangling, going down, the referee pointing to the spot Penalty! The Cambridge bench furious with the decision. An opportunity for Worthing to level things up from the spot. Bath to take the spot kick, strikes the ball to the left of goal, Webb diving the right way to make a fantastic save her right arm outstretched to push the ball wide of goal behind for a corner kick.

Lauren Webb saving Becki Bath’s penalty.

Lauren Webb

Lifted in high from the left a Cambridge head gets a touch near side but can only help it on into the middle, falls for Blakely, stabs the ball goal wards is trapped between her feet by Jackson in the six yard box before scrambling the ball clear of danger. 

Cambridge’s Abbie Jackson

  Worthing look to build through the middle Rowe on for Albuery, Humphrey entering the area likely to be flagged offside if the ball found it’s way through to her but the Cambridge centre backs close the door on Albuery the ball cleared. Rouse coming across on two occasions to stop Worthing on the left as they threaten to get in behind. Scott lining up a strike from distance, the Worthing midfielders shot not troubling Webb.

Worthing’s Tierney Scott

  Lively in the middle, both sides working hard to close down the ball, Worthing pressing forwards as Cambridge drop off at time to defend their area. Albuery linking up with Zoe Winchester going left, Rouse tackling, Cambridge countering right side Kosky them Marden inside for Stojko-Down 25 yards out looks to play the ball across the top of the D for Fox, can’t quite turn into the shot but keeps the attack alive pushing for the area, Blakely closing her down for Worthing.

  Cambridge not happy with the earlier penalty decision only further aggravated as they question other decisions. Wood winning a corner for the hosts on the right Worthing clearing their lines attack through the middle, the ball fired forwards into the area, Rouse not getting hold of it evades her as Bath steals in beyond her, striking the ball, Webb moving forwards to close the angle making the blocking save at close range. 

 Fox high on the left breaking the ball down well off her chest knocking the ball into the area, Blakely in to block as she shapes to shoot the ball deflected clear. Emotions rising the referee stopping play to have a word with Cambridge manager Darren Marjoram, settling things down… for now. Wood and Fox liking up well on the left the former lifting a long diagonal ball forwards for Marden to attack on the right, Dolbear alert to the danger out to the edge of her area to drop onto the ball.

  Worthing have the ball in the back of the net in the 26th minute as Scott free at the back post taps in Quayle’s pass to her from the left as Winchester and Albuery combine top of the area, however it won’t count as the Worthing attack breaking forwards with pace is flagged offside. Cambridge putting themselves under pressure dropping off allowing Worthing to come at them.

Worthing midfielder, Zoe Winchester

  Scott shifting the ball well between her feet sending the ball on into the left channel for Quayle, looking to get into the area, Kosky tracking back to tackle the ball deflected back across the D, Albuery rushing in looking to latch onto it, Otten diving in for Cambridge, just about getting to take the ball out of her path.

 No advantage, play brought back as Wood is pulled back for Cambridge out on the left inside the Worthing half, players forwards as Cheal-Ferris sends the set-piece angling into the far post attacked, Worthing defending the ball cleared, won back 30 yards out the shot taken struck wide, over the bar (and by bar I mean the stand behind the goal). A pause in play with Dolbear down in the Worthing goal, a chance for the coaches to get instructions to their players.

 Scott evading a tackle on the right getting forwards opening up her body attempting to thread a pass into the area for bath to run onto, too close to Webb however the keeper getting her gloves wrapped around the ball. Albuery turning on the ball in the middle sending a clipped pass out to Humphrey wide on the left, Marden tracking back for Cambridge putting in the tackle to clear the threat. Worthing though pushing players on force Cambridge back, Palmer sweeping a deep cross into the area, Fox heading clear for Cambridge.

  Worthing winning a free-kick central 25 yards out, Young running in to strike the ball smashes it into Cambridge’s wall. Cambridge attacking on the left Wood laying the ball back for Cheal-Ferris to hit long up towards Fox moving into the area, Blakely instead under it to hook clear for Worthing. 

Dolbear miscuing her goal kick putting the ball straight at Fox inside the box to the left of goal looking to control with her head get the ball down to strike, is closed down quickly by the Worthing defence. Moving into the final 5 minutes of the 1st half, pressing Cambridge back Edgar sends the ball back into her keeper coming at Webb with pace the keeper looking to try and adjusted her feet screws her clearances straight into the path of Bath charging in through the middle, the shot though fired straight back into the keeper, Webb falling back grateful to get the ball into her body.

Worthing’s Becki Bath

  Cambridge’s turn to appeal for a penalty as the ball is rolled in towards Fox inside the box from the right, a heavy challenge but well timed I think the appeals waved away. Cambridge getting a free-kick inside the Worthing half out to the left Cheal-Ferris over it again flighting a ball into the area headed clear, Edgar tackling stopping the visitors from breaking away keeping the pressure on around the area Kosky pushing on to the by-line on the right is closed down by Blakely preventing her from getting a cross into the box.

Ruth Fox

  Winchester out to Albuery moving to left her strike on the angle to the near post saved well by Webb with Quayle bursting forwards looking to attack. Worthing to the attack Rowe to Quayle on for Humphrey left side keeping the ball in play on the by-line laid back to Bath left of the D, her low strike in towards goal blocked by Jackson for Cambridge. 

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris beating Worthing’s Tierney Scott to the ball

Into stoppage time, Cheal-Ferris and Scott continue to enjoy a lively contest as they look to win the ball the former fouled, the free-kick taken quickly Worthing quick to win it back forwards for Scott on the right lifts a diagonal ball towards the area looking to cut a hole in the Cambridge defence, Jackson coming across, throwing up a leg catching the ball with her heel a vital touch as she deflects the ball away from the advancing Bath into the arms of her keeper. 

  Stojko-Down bundled over as she looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Cambridge halfway inside the Worthing half. Jackson over it, sends a teasing strike in towards goal bouncing narrowly wide of Dolbear’s right post. Young forwards for Worthing on the right inside for Bath central lays it into Quayle right of the D, Cheal-Ferris close in, Quayle goes down, Cambridge not pleased with the decision a free-kick to Worthing 25 yards out in a dangerous position, Palmer across to take it curls her attempt straight against the wall. Wood looking to break clear on the left for Cambridge, Blakely out well to close her down for Worthing.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Worthing FC Women

  Cambridge with the early goal go into the break leading 1-0 at half-time have worked hard for their lead. Defending at the back, dropping off at times inviting pressure. Worthing have gotten forwards well moving the ball across the pitch winning a penalty, seeing the chance to level the scores saved whilst the offside flag has denied them another opportunity. The interval a chance to put a few thing’s right a competitive tie between the sides placed 4th and 5th in the league, set up nicely for the first half. 

  No changes for either side at the break, the light beginning to fade the floodlights coming on. Worthing to get the 2nd half underway. The ball put out wide, Wood moves in quickly to close it down for Cambridge, the visitors move in to regain possession get on the attack pressing up the left winning a throw high, knocked onto into the Cambridge area, cleared by Rouse. Worthing showing attacking intent at the start of the 2nd period winning a corner on the left, swept in low to the near post defended knocked on across the six yard box cleared by Kosky at the far post.

  Worthing looking to impose themselves on the ball, Albuery getting about the park to win the ball. Another corner won on the left, rolled in shot played back to the taker the ball crossed in towards the far post Kosky defending for Cambridge before the shot is struck over on the angle to the right of the box. 

  Worthing on the charge through the middle Rowe on for Humphrey inside the area, Quayle ahead of her looking to tee her up, Jackson comes in to close her down in the nick of time to clear the ball away from a throw on the left. Worthing making a strong start to the 2nd half keeping Cambridge penned inside their final 3rd winning another corner on the left whipped in across goal the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the far post before Cambridge’s defence scrambles it away.

Worthing’s Chloe Humphrey

  Under the cosh in the opening exchanges little opportunity to break for Cambridge, Wood though with a fantastic flick on from a throw on the right sending Marden on give chase to the ball, ahead of Blakely, can’t quite get there before Dolbear comes rushing towards her to clear the ball.

 Cambridge under pressure needing to dig deep. Humphrey attempting to get onto the end of a cross field pass from the right as she attacks on the left, Rouse needing to come out to challenge conceding a corner. Kosky adjudged to have fouled Humphrey on the wing, looked more like a tangle of legs as the pair crossed paths, nevertheless the decision goes Worthing’s way.

  Cambridge feeling aggrieved with the decisions, as Worthing continue to press the ball, Winchester latching onto Rouse’s clearance 30 yards out, her 1st time strike angling wide past the left post. Fox clattered into out on the left the free-kick swept into the area cleared by Worthing’s Young. Another decision causing consternation amongst the Cambridge ranks as Wood is penalised for a foul on Humphrey. That leads to the ball being played up the line passed inside to Albuery pushing inside appears to be sent tumbling, the set-piece awarded again Cambridge livid at the decision…

Shannon Albuery winning Worthing a free-kick in the 61st minute.

 GOAL! The free-kick outside the area to the left of the box everyone back for Cambridge to defend, Worthing lining up at the far post ready to attack the ball is put right on the money players running in met by a blue shirt headed home across goal to put Worthing back on level terms, Albuery the player on the mark 1-1.

Shannon Albuery fires home Worthing’s equaliser

  Cambridge incensed by the decision to award the free-kick in the first place are further penalised, Edgar furious talking herself into trouble shown the yellow card by the referee and sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes. Cambridge down to 10 just as they look to make a change bringing on Simmons to replace Marden. Worthing though on a high looking to push home the advantage as Cambridge look to adjust personal to cover their missing players.

GOAL! And take advantage they do closing the ball down in the middle, the through ball cutting open the defence to see Quayle break in behind to the left of goal closing down the six yard box, strikes her shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner to fire Worthing into the lead 1-2!

Samantha Quayle puts Worthing into the lead

  A big spell for Cambridge the game going against them need to rally unhappy with the referee as another foul is given against them as Quayle is fouled. Worthing on top pushing on Rowe out to the right the cross lifted in near posted defended by Kosky, drops to Quayle on the angle sends her attempt at goal over. Bath running onto the ball in the middle with a wild strike on the ball, in towards goal easy for Webb.

  Scott 25 yards out to the right corner of the Cambridge box hesitates as she brings the ball down expecting like Cambridge to be pulled up for a hand ball, when the decision doesn’t come however she turns to take a shot sending her effort up over the crossbar. Worthing with a strong performance in the 2nd half, Cambridge having to battle hard at the back to keep them at bay struggling to make anything stick up top. Wood looking to get hold of the ball make things happen for the hosts but is quickly closed down.

  Edgar back on for Cambridge as the game moves into the final 15 minutes, Worthing making a change bringing on Rebecca Bell in place of Scott. Worthing with a set-piece Rowe to curl the ball into the area, Rouse heading it clear for Cambridge. Wood strong on the ball coming right is sent tumbling the advantage played however as she finds Simmons clear to the right, Kosky breaking past her on the overlap to cross the ball into the box, Blakely getting her head on the ball to clear the threat for Worthing.

Zoe Wood bringing the ball on for Cambridge

  Another switch for Worthing with Gemma Worsfold coming on Quayle. Worthing on the attack on the left a low cross flashing into the six yard box, Bath attacking the ball far post crashed down off the crossbar the ball then scrambled clear by the Cambridge defence. Worthing looking to put the game to bed the ball with Bath 30 yards out has time to line up a shot strikes the ball wide of the right post as Webb throws herself across her goal.

  Cambridge making a change bringing on Serena Cobb for Otten in the 85th minute, Worthing replacing Bath with Katie Cooper. Wood is brought down wide on the right inside the Worthing half. Jackson to swing the ball into the area, Worthing with a solid defensive line clearing the top of their area. Cambridge attack down the left Cheal-Ferris forwards for Wood turns into the area left corner appears to be sent tumbling but to Cambridge’s disbelief she is the player penalised Worthing awarded the free-kick… outside the area.

  Worthing come strong on the right a cross whipped in near post, Webb doing well under challenge to get hold of the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick out to the right. The ball lifted into the area knocked down into the ground, Blakely getting it clear for a throw for Worthing. Into stoppage time Worthing with a change slowing Cambridge down as they try and push for a late equaliser, Humphrey coming off, Niamh Anderson coming on. Worthing getting everyone back behind the ball to see out the closing moments of the match keep Cambridge at bay and celebrate as they come back from a goal down to win 2-1 in the 2nd half and claim the 3 points seeing them end 2023 in 3rd spot. 

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Worthing FC Women

  A strong 2nd half performance from Worthing making adjustments at the break to come out looking to impose themselves on the game right from the start put Cambridge on the back foot. Taking the lead and then with Cambridge reeling from the first goal striking fast to add a 2nd take the lead and press for a 3rd goal. Closing the ball down in their opponents half making the counter attack hard in turn allowing players to keep high to outnumber the midfield. Cambridge will no doubt feel hard done by, by some questionable decisions that ultimately cost them, but worked hard throughout and were good value for their 1st half lead, competing with Worthing. Under the cosh at the start of the 2nd half couldn’t get the ball to stick up top inviting pressure. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match, had someone in mind leaving the stadium and although a few contenders have put themselves into contention in the notes will stick with that call. Several performances of note however in what was a highly competitive game. Firstly for Cambridge, Lauren Rouse and Abbie Jackson were strong in the middle of the Cambridge defence making a number of vital tackles and interceptions. Zoe Wood was looking to get the ball down and make thing’s happen constantly throughout the match. For Worthing, Emma Blakely had a strong game at the back getting across to close the ball down and win it inside her box. Tierney Scott was lively out on the flanks winning the ball and looking to play it forwards, Danielle Rowe with a controlled performance in the middle, good control shifting play across the pitch. Samantha Quayle bursting forwards finding some great positions to attack scoring the winner. The award though goes to Shannon Albuery, covered a huge amount of ground getting across the pitch to get hold of the ball with some fantastic link up play, a constant threat to the Cambridge defence.

  My final game of 2023 complete as entertaining as any watched highly competitive between two sides enjoying a strong season in FAWNL South East Division One. My first time seeing Worthing in action (although I know of most of their players having seen several in action for their previous clubs) a strong side that will be a threat to everyone in the league in 2024. A hard one for Cambridge to take will feel hard done by by the decisions but should use it as fuel to drive them on in 2024 remain well placed to push the side above them. My thanks to both for their help with the team details as always much appreciated… time for a rest over the festive period. Merry Christmas and enjoy the celebrations with friends and family.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 15th October

FAWNL South East Division One

Derby match action this weekend on Women’s Football East a trip to Haverhill to watch the Cambridge showdown between Cambridge City Women and Cambridge United Women in FAWNL South East Division One.

 Originally set to be the season opener, the game postponed due to the not so small matter of the Lionesses reaching the World Cup final. A historic day for women’s football in the country and testament to how much the game has grown in recent times. The FAWNL representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid the talent playing with in it getting stronger season upon season. Along with it the challenges clubs face to remain competitive and succeed.

 Cambridge City Ladies promoted to the FAWNL back in 2019 after enjoying a rapid rise through the leagues to join their fellow Cambridge side in the 4th tier. The clubs sharing a turbulent history having once been one before Cambridge Women as they were back then broke away eventually merging with Cambridge United FC. Cambridge City are now Cambridge City Women. Have always been a club that has put youth at the forefront of their pathway to the first team and have produced many talented sides over the years. Have seen many changes over the past few season’s from the very top with a new chairman to a total overhaul of the senior team losing a lot of experienced players as they have moved on to other clubs. Management changes too that have seen the club struggling for points at the bottom end of the league.

 More changes over the summer with more player departures, a new manager brought in Fadi Mazloum the ex-Stevenage FC Women’s head coach to lead the 1st team, overseeing a virtual rebuild of the squad. A number of new signings joining the young retained players. Eva Hubbard dual signed with Needham Market last season joining on a permanent basis. Rosy Wodhams joining from Stevenage FC Women. Sophie Mulvihill signing on with the club having experience with both Nottingham Forest and Leicester. Tilly Fidler another bringing valuable experience to the side. Striker, Libby Fraser joining from Cambridge United along with defender Abi Davies. Goalkeeper Nina Meollo comes in on loan from Ipswich Town Women. Jade Barrett back in the game after a spell out with injury. Jade McGibbon, Patience Ndlovu, Belle Shannon, Sakina Dhirani & Leila Awan also joining the club. A lot of new faces to bring in and form into a team over the summer and despite a opening day win in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup have struggled in the league losing their opening 6 matches to sit bottom of the table. Fadi Mazloum since setting down from his role sees the club on the look out for a new 1st team manager. Got a much needed boost with their 1st point secured at home against newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women in midweek.

Cambridge United WFC amongst the longest established sides playing in the 4th tier, but would love to shake of that accolade and strive for promotion. Since taking on the United mantle in their name have enjoyed closer ties with Cambridge United FC, forming a women’s board within the club last season and playing a number of matches at The Abbey Stadium. Setting up a better player pathway in the process with the aim of producing talent to compete for places in the senior team. Bringing in new players to bolster an experienced squad, Fran Steele joining from Cambridge City a driving force in midfield. Zoe Wood returning to football is an ex-England youth international. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris also joining with Wymondham Town Ladies amongst her previous clubs. Mistie Fox-Barker another addition joining from Royston Town Women. Annie Posnett top scorer in ERWFL Division One North last season also aiming to make an impact. Serena Cobb, Eleanor Townsend and Niamh Day stepping up from the old Development squad.

Shaking off a lethargic loss in the opening days Determining Round match. Came back to record a 4-0 win in their opening league fixture against Haywards Heath Town Women with last season’s top scorer Sarah Wilshire netting all 4 goals. Was to be Wiltshire’s last appearance for Cambridge for now as she announced she is pregnant with her 3rd child. A big gap to fill in the attack would be interesting to see how the squad responded… and they have responded excellently, playing Alysha Stojko-Down in a false number 9 position has found the back of the net for 5 goals with Bella Simmons hitting 4. Followed that win with back to back and a win, suffering their 1st loss against Wimbledon bouncing back well with 3 successive wins on the road in league and cup the latest in midweek with Bella Simmons spectacular bicycle kick clinching a 1-0 at London Seaward FC. Sees them in 4th place just 3 points behind leaders Norwich City Women.

  The New Croft in Haverhill the venue for today’s match, Cambridge City Women’s new home while they await the completion of Cambridge City FC’s new stadium in Sawston.  Boasting a top class 3G facility as well as the main grass pitch with the clubhouse, bar and kitchen hatch in between. A small seat stand on one side. Quite open to the elements is a somewhat chillier day to those we’ve been used to, but they had to arrive sounder or later. Still bright the sun moving around one end of the pitch would cause issues but otherwise dry.

Cambridge City Women

Cambridge City Women starting XI – Nina Meollo, Jess Fitzpatrick, Eva Hubbard (C), Sophie Mulvihill, Abi Davies, Paige Gardiner, Rosy Wodhams, Libby Fraser, Jess Wood, Jade Barrett & Becca Stephenson. Subs – Georgia Anderson, Hannah Simpson, Milly Struthers & Theresa Kooh. 

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Ella Marden, Tash Collins, Lauren Rouse, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten (C), Fran Steele, Ruth Fox, Bella Simmons & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Sammy Edgar, Abbie Jackson, Annie Posnett, Serena Cobb & Mistie Fox-Barker.

United captain Gisela Otten and City captain Eva Hubbard with today’s match officials

You know the drill from here on in it’s City and United when these two meet (I write enough as it is without adding 300 references to Cambridge) It’s United to get the derby match underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and white socks. With City opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. The ball rolled back to Fran Steele in midfield clips a long pass out to the left, Ruth Fox harrying the City defence bringing the visitors an early corner.

Played into the near post area City half clearing out to United captain Gisela Otten positioned central strikes the ball from distance taking a deflection of a City defender to take the power out of it easily gathered by goalkeeper Nina Meollo. City look to drive through the middle, Paige Gardiner picking up a head of steam laying the ball on for Becca Stephenson pulling into the right channel the pass intercepted by Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris at the back for United. 

Cambridge City attacker, Becca Stephenson

  Competitive in the middle from the start with United looking to get the ball out to the flanks Fox left and Bella Simmons right willing runners. United winning a free-kick inside the centre circle Cheal-Ferris sending a diagonal ball out to Simmons on the right 25 out her feet slide out from under her as she goes to strike the ball the shot running harmlessly through to the keeper.

  Libby Fraser getting hold of the ball on the right for City looking to drive at the defence cutting inside losses possession as she runs into traffic. Another quick United free-kick sees Simmons skip in behind the defence on the right. Sophie Mulvihill coming across to put in the challenge for City clearing the danger away for a corner on the right. Swept in long across the six yard box Fox rising at the far post heading the ball down into the ground scrambled clear comes out to the left Ella Marden sending a strike from distance wide of the right post.

  United pressing into the City half the defence up on half way at times looking to be aggressive get after the ball turn play around. The ball won centrally United’s Simmons finds half a yard on the right wing to take the ball on down the line whipping a cross in central Fox closing meeting it with her head turns the ball wide of the right post. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Ruth Fox

  Lauren Rouse at the back for United putting in a strong tackle to win the ball against Rosy Wodhams as she looks to travel forwards. Playing a high line City find the pass to release Stephenson in behind right side racing after the ball, United goalkeeper, Lauren Webb closing in the opposite direction sliding in to lay claim to the ball.

  Another free-kick goes to United as Simmons is brought down outside the area 25 yards from goal. The ball curled into the box, Meollo punching it clear, City look to break with Jess Wood getting on down the wing before Collins closes her down challenging to put the ball out for a throw. City push players on for the throw in played inside to Stephenson left corner of the area tackled by United’s Steele. City with a good spell regaining possession centrally the pass forwards setting Stephenson away right side powers into the box before hitting the ball across the top of the six yard box, Fraser getting hold of it stealing past a couple of United defenders before rifling a shot wide past the right post 

  Wodhams dumped to the ground as she takes the ball forwards, City awarded the free-kick centrally, Fraser on the ball as players line up for a right sided delivery, instead Fraser whips the ball into the near post looking to wrong foot the keeper, Webb getting across her goal can see it safely wide. Remains a competitive tussle in the middle both sides battling for the ball. Rouse strong at the back for United winning her tackles. 

Cambridge City’s Rosy Wodhams

  Steele and Stojko-Down exchanging passes as they bring United on through the middle the ball clipped out to Simmons attacking right is sent tumbling, referee Lorraine Catchpole playing the advantage as Zoe Wood up with Simmons takes the ball forwards squaring a cross into the six yard box cut out by Mulvihill. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Zoe Wood

  Cheal-Ferris booked as she comes to close the ball down out on City’s right, the set-piece floated into the box from deep taken by Webb at her near post. City look to counter on the right, Collins with a great interception to hook the ball back into the middle for Stojko-Down back to goal turns well to lay the ball into the path of Fox coming on from the left striking the ball on the run Meollo diving across her goal with the merest of touches the ball behind for the corner. The ball swung in towards goal headed over.

United captain, Gisela Otten battling for possession with City’s Paige Gardiner

  Stephenson running the ball down for City into the left corner, holds it up as Fraser gets forwards to support played back to her up the line stabs it forwards looking to attack the area, Rouse in her path winning the tackle. Both sides looking to up the tempo get after the other into each other Jade Barrett coming into the middle to win possession for City, Otten snapping back at her to play the ball into Stojko-Down who in turn sets Wood away on the right her cross swung in from deep blocked by Fitzpatrick corner given. City defending their lines look to break the advantage played as a player is fouled in the middle the ball running on for Stephenson to knock forwards, can’t get to it before Webb as it runs on into her box.

Jess Fitzpatrick

  City gaining a little confidence having been defending deep earlier on are themselves pushing up as a unit into the middle, play there very congested with the ball pinging around. Wodhams bringing the pass from Gardiner under control on the left plays it forwards into Stephenson, Rouse in to close her down the ball gone for a throw in. Level with the top of the area the ball dropped into Barrett looks to turn corner of the area blocked at close quarters the rebound coming to Wodhams behind her 25 yards out curls her shot wide of the top corner.

Jade Barrett with the ball for Cambridge City

  Gardiner battling for the ball in the middle for City getting a favourable break surging forwards attempts to thread the ball in behind for Stephenson, Webb rushing forwards to gather it first. United come left Marden on for Fox wide outside the box jinks left then right before angling a shot straight at the keeper. United holding their line catching Stephenson offside on a couple of occasions. 

Cambridge City’s Paige Gardiner

  Cheal-Ferris with a long clearance out to the right finding Simmons holding the ball up top corner of the area before laying it out wide to Wood who sweeps a cross in towards the far post Stojko-Down up to meet it wide her head nods the ball wide. Simmons taking the ball wide right side sending a cross looping into the box caught by Meollo. Otten picking up a yellow card for United as the midfield battle continues.

  Wood winning City their first corner of the game on the left played in near post beat back out to the corner taker the 2nd attempt to play the ball into the box cleared by Rouse. City looking to build some momentum with Barrett and Wodhams linking up in the centre the ball out to the right intercepted well by Cheal-Ferris. Wood out on the right swinging a cross into the box caught high by Webb, United with a player down Fox hurt in the City build up down the right is okay after receiving treatment.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Lauren Rouse

 Gardiner on the move with the ball through the middle played on for Stephenson in attack, Rouse getting a foot in to cut it out for United. Fitzpatrick on the stretch with  a vital interception at the back for City as the diagonal ball threatens to see Simmons race in clear to attack the box on the right.

  Moments later the ball put into the box from the United right rebounds straight to Simmons top of the D, her snap shot taking a deflection behind for a corner on the right. Played long across the six yard box is headed back across wide of the post for a 2nd corner. This delivery to the top of the area, Simmons hauled down right of the D, Fraser receiving a yellow card. Wood and Cheal-Ferris over the ball, Wood with the dummy as Cheal-Ferris curls a strike in towards goal, Meollo behind it making the save as it dips late palming the ball over the bar with both hands.

City goalkeeper Nina Meollo tipping the ball over the bar

Nina Meollo

The resulting United corner played into the near post low, Meollo stabbing a foot out to block sending it behind for another corner. Put in towards the top of the area a strike towards goal wide of right post from 25 yards. Steele carrying the ball into the right channel has Wood with her on the overlap sending the ball into her feet the cross is whipped in central, Meollo with a confident claim taking the ball low into her midriff as Stojko-Down closes her down.

  City with a free-kick on the left late in the first half Hubbard over the ball put in to the top of the are knocked down into the path of Barrett top of the D, blasts a shot in towards goal, blocked by Marden inside the six yard box, Rouse clears for a corner on the right. The delivery goes long missing everyone in the six yard box, Barrett after the ball to regain on the left firing it back into the mix, the ball hotly contested before United scramble it away to safety.  

Half-time Cambridge City Women 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

  A goalless first half in the finish of what has been a competitive Cambridge derby so far with the game highly competitive in the middle of the park. United getting off to a positive start looknig to get at the City defence spread play out to the wide attacking players. Creating a number of opportunities. The City defence busy pushed back, United up on halfway play gradually swinging as City gained confidence to push their own defence up gaining momentum towards the end of the half to create a few chances themselves. The game lacking that one quality pass that could see someone through on goal.

  No changes from either side at the break, as City get the 2nd period underway the ball put back into defence as United race forwards to hustle the ball won on the right the visitors send it cross field out to the left Fox looking to get forwards, Meollo out to clear the ball. United looking to get on the front foot early in the 2nd half the ball rolled into Wood right of the D her shot low straight into the keeper. Fox cutting out a City pass on the left knocks it forwards into Stojko-Down coming inside from the left curls a shot from outside the box onto the roof of the net. 

Alysha Stojko-Down lining up the shot

  United looking to be aggressive get after the ball. Barrett looking to bring the ball down for City as she moves to the right, Marden in to win the tackle for United. The sun low behind one goal now City with it at their backs, Webb donning a cap. United get on well down the left Marden on for Fox wide of the area shifts left then right before whipping a ball into the six yard box, won by Mulvihill for City. 

Sophie Mulvihill

  A free-kick won by City central, Hubbard over it launching the ball into the area, Webb up well to claim it. Barrett getting about the pitch for City looking to disrupt United regain possession for City. Stojko-Down coming left fouled by Mulvihill giving United a free-kick. Cheal-Ferris having Wood up with her plays it short as Wood breaks down the left to sing the cross into the area, blocked by Davies for City. 

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

  Wood fouled on the left for City, Hubbard drops the ball into the mix from deep, chaos ensues for a moment as both side scramble for the ball, United eventually sending it clear. Marden getting forwards well on the left as she and Fox combine on the left her cross headed out for a throw by Mulvihill. United making a change on the hour with Sammy Edgar coming on for Otten in the centre of the park. The game settling down a little scrappy at time as neither prepared to give any quarter in the midfield. 

Ruth Fox on the attack for Cambridge United

 Davies defending at the back for City against Fox the ball cleared up to Wood attacking on the right flashes a shot wide across the six yard box, retrieved on the left by Fraser strikes her shot from distance over. City working hard to stretch United winning a free-kick on the right the ball swung in under the bar Webb getting her gloves up to turn the ball wide for a corner on the left. Fired in low to the near post Collins launching it clear for United. 

 United on the drive through the middle Steele advancing plays in through for Edgar to take on and put Simmons away to attack on the right striking the shot from 25 yards, the ball smashing against the bar and over. 

United’s Bella Simmons striking the crossbar

  United pressing right side winning a throw, Simmons attempting to put the ball into the box cut out comes back to Wood strikes wide of the left post from range. United knocking on the door with a little over 15 minutes left to play. City fighting for the ball looking to get it into Stephenson in attack the striker twisting and turning 25 yards out squeezing a shot away, Webb down low to gather.

Cambridge City captain, Eva Hubbard

  Wood adjudged to be offside as she breaks in behind the City defence as Meollo rushes out to clear off a Stojko-Down pass. City winning a free-kick central inside the United half 30 plus yards out the sun at her back Hubbard lines up a strike at goal, hit well, Webb throwing herself to the right making a fantastic one handed save pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left.

Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Fired into the box from the left, Steele up to defend for United heading the ball over for a 2nd corner. Another vicious in swinger, Webb up to punch the ball away to the left back to the taker fired back into the box too many bodies to evade the strike is blocked and cleared. The United bench infuriated as Fox is judged to have handled the ball as she looks to break away down the left. Fox’s last action of the game as she is replaced by Abbie Jackson the defender joining the back line with Cheal-Ferris going to full back and Marden pushed forwards.

Cambridge United WFC’s Ella Marden

  Edgar battling for the ball for United the visitors looking for a strong finish, City working hard at the back to keep them out with the clock ticking down. Wood with the diagonal ball from the right looking for Marden breaking left, frustrated as the flag halts her run. Davies in to defend on Wood as she looks to bring the ball down of her chest and turn to strike the ball goes behind for a corner. Fired in from the left into the six yard box knocked down for Simmons sees her shot blocked turned away from another corner on the left. Taken quickly the cross into the box into Jackson back to goal looks to shield the ball looking for someone to lay it off to, but City close the ball down get it away from danger.

  Into the last five minutes of regular play United pushing on looking for a goal, Marden off a throw on the left firing a cross into the box, but no one there to attack it. Edgar bursting forwards for United looked to already have slipped as Barrett clatters into her the free-kick awarded to United central 25 out. Stojko-Down over it goes for goal strikes her shot over the crossbar. 

Alysha Stojko-Down

 United pour forwards Cheal-Ferris left with the cutting pass inside into Stojko-Down outside the D looks to bring the ball down hit on the turn catching the ball with the outside of her boot, not troubling Meollo. City hanging on towards the end players back to defend. A corner won in the dying minutes on the right to United. 

Cambridge United midfielder, Fran Steele

 

 Played high into the box, Wood knocking the ball down towards the far post, Meollo able to grab as Mulvihill and Steele come together in front of her, the game ending in controversy as the grounded defender kicks out towards Steele catching her in the chin, Steele retaliating with a shove, the referee blowing up immediately, calling both players up to her as the United bench scream for a penalty. One thing at a time as a red card is shown to both players, both stunned, Steele sporting a cut on her face. Now the referee goes over to consult with her lineswoman before pointing to the spot Penalty! City’s turn to surround the referee but it does them no good the decision is made. Stojko-Down with a chance to win the game for United with what would surely be the last kick of the game with all the commotion needs to settle down. Strikes the penalty over, missing as the final whistle blows, City joyous, Stojko-Down distraught on her knees.

Full time Cambridge City Women 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

United’s Zoe Wood with City’s Jade Barrett

  On the final whistle the game is drawn but for both sides very different emotions, for United it almost feels like a loss, for City it feels like a win! The Cambridge derby ending goalless United by far the stronger in the 2nd half creating numerous chances started well looking to get after their opponents coming close to scoring but City’s defence battling hard. Webb needing to save at the other end to ensure the visitors weren’t caught out. A busy 7 days for both sides and they can both have reason to be positive, 7 points for United who remain 4th. 2 successive draws for City gives the squad some much needed confidence and something they can use to build on as they continue their search for a new manager.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A derby match very competitive there are a few contenders and narrowing it down to one wasn’t easy. Performances of note from both sides. For City, Paige Gardiner had a strong game in the middle of the park getting hold of the ball and driving forwards. Jade Barrett putting herself about, strong coming back to win the ball get City going in attack. Becca Stephenson lively in attack making some good runs. For United Ruth Fox and Bella Simmons were great outlets in attack wide and into the channels. Alysha Stojko-Down holding the ball up well getting into some fantastic positions to set up others. Fran Steele powerful in midfield closing the ball down, putting in the tackles. Came down to the numbers 5’s however and a close run contest too. Sophie Mulvihill with a strong defensive performance for City at the back, with some great tackling and interception play. The award though goes to United’s Lauren Rouse read the game well especially when United were holding a high line dropping off well and timing her tackles throughout.

  Might have ended goalless and I don’t cover many of those but this was as exciting a game as any I’ve watched this season, both sides working hard competitive in the middle of the park. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details. On to the next one time to get the coat out I think.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 27th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 Sadly it wasn’t to be for our Lionesses, losing 1-0 to Spain in last Sunday’s Women’s World Cup Final. Nevertheless they have inspired the nation and the future most definitely looks bright for the game across the nation. 

  Back on my travels this weekend to take in a game from the now traditional Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, the sides representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid drawn together with the winning sides going on to contest the League Cup itself with the losing teams going into the League Plate competition. Cambridge United WFC getting their season underway at home taking on fellow Division One South side, Norwich City Women.

 The FAWNL gets stronger season upon season as the talent base grows and the clubs competing in it are needing to grow too. Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women both long established at this level are now enjoying closer ties with their respective men’s clubs to enable players to enjoy better facilities and support along with enhancing the player development pathways and ultimately challenge for the league title itself.

 Cambridge United WFC establishing a women’s board within Cambridge United FC itself, benefitting from playing a number of games at the League One sides Abbey Stadium. Regaining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup as well as the Development side winning last season’s Junior Invitation Cup the club has been busy recruiting new faces over the close season adding depth to squad. Midfielder, Fran Steele joins having been with local rivals Cambridge City Ladies previously vastly experienced a strong presence in the middle of the park. Also joining from City is defender Bronwyn Mulheron recovered now after suffering a dislocated knee last season.

 Zoe Wood (formerly Cross) an ex-England youth international comes back into football with Cambridge after most recently featuring for Lewes in the Championship. Another defender joining with plenty of experience is Jess Morley who has spent the last couple of seasons with Wroxham FC Women in the ERWFL Premier Division. Mistie Fox-Barker is another defensive option joining the squad having been with Royston Town Women in the ERWFL Premier Division. Brooke Cheal-Ferris again adds good playing experience to the squad with Wymondham Town Ladies amongst her previous clubs. While in attack striker Annie Posnett will be looking to make an impact having finished joint top scorer with St Ives Town Ladies in ERWFL Division One North last season. Sophie Marjoram comes in to provide cover and competition for goalkeeper Lauren Webb. With three players stepping up into the 1st team squad from the Development side, Serena Cobb, Beatrice Rogers and Eleanor Townsend.

Norwich City Women now fully integrated with Norwich City FC itself with ex-Bristol City WFC player Flo Allen joining as General Manager. The women’s side at long last getting the opportunity to play at Carrow Road in front of a record breaking crowd with more matches planned there for next season including their league match against Cambridge United WFC in a fortnights time. Also won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in front of a record crowd for that competition at Carrow Road last season. That game manager, Shaun Howes last in charge for the club. Martin Herdman form the North East gaining plenty of experience in England and abroad chosen to take on the role as Norwich look to push on from a resurgent campaign last time out that saw the squad pressing the top two for much of the season.

 Having retained a strong core with a good blend of youth and experience Norwich have like Cambridge been busy during the close season bringing in new faces, most notably goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill who played an important role in East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women’s title challenging campaigns in tier 3 most recently with lots of experience playing at a higher level having been with Norwich several season’s back. Another coming in from Ipswich is U21s player Lauren Hailes. Winger Rachel Lawrence who was at Leicester City for 8 seasons joins from Peterborough United Women. Hope Strauss is another strong addition to the squad the defender most recently with Loughborough Lightning. Striker Shannon Shaw joins Norwich having played for Cambridge City Ladies along with full back Lauren Tomlinson who is now doubt fed up with me mentioning she has one of the longest throws in the women’s game. Norwich opening their season with a late goal in a 2-1 win away to Division One South East newcomers AFC Sudbury Women.

St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus Stadium serving as Cambridge United WFC’s regular home for the past couple of season’s, the main grass pitched stadium along side a artificial playing surface beyond. Situated within an ever growing residential development on the outskirts of St Neots with huge potential to grow the fanbase of both Cambridge United’s women’s sides and St Neots Town FC itself. The grass pitch looking perfect at the start of the new season lush and green the main covered stand running along one side of the ground with the changing rooms and clubhouse and bar beneath. Covered terracing behind both goals too. Another overcast but warm afternoon with the threat of an odd down pour forecast during the match.

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Natasha Collins, Rachel Kosky, Abbie Jackson, Beatrice Rodgers, Gisella Otten (C), Fran Steele, Alysha Stojko-Down, Zoe Wood, Ruth Fox & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Mayzee Seymour, Jess Morley, Harley Jean-Simpson, Sydnie Naylor & Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Alice Parker, Lauren Tomlinson, Ceri Flye, Anna Larkins (C), Katie Knights, Eloise Morran, Megan Todd, Freya Symonds, Olivia Cook & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Millie Daviss, Jodie Drake, Natasha Snelling Hope Strauss & Rachel Lawrence.

Norwich to kick off this afternoon’s cup action wearing the clubs all purple third kit with Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back into Ceri Flye in defence puts the pass out to the right to be launched up the wing, Natasha Collins getting her head on the ball to clear for Cambridge.

Norwich rush in to close the ball down in the middle of the park as Alysha Stojko-Down squeezes a ball out to Zoe Wood on the left wing, looking to take it on, Megan Todd tracking back for Norwich to dispossess her. The visitors getting into Cambridge early looking to win the ball high, the ball lifted over the top into the right channel with Freya Symonds chasing the ball down before putting a low ball in across goal, Cambridge goalkeeper down quickly to get hold of the ball with Shannon Shaw chasing in far post.

  The ball hotly contested in midfield Fran Steele coming up to Alysha Stojko-Down as she battles for possession, fouled Cambridge take the free-kick quickly played out to Wood on the left turns inside before sending an ambitious pass out to the right looking for the run of Ruth Fox, Norwich win it back Alice parker sending it on up the left for Lauren Tomlinson to take on down the line sending a cross in central the ball cleared by Cambridge defender, Abbie Jackson.

Abbie Jackson clearing the ball for Cambridge

  Katie Knights and Eloise Morran pressing the ball inside the Cambridge half a good contest developing between Knights and Steele a free-kick given away out deep on the right players up to the top of the area as Parker floats the ball high into the box, appeals as a Norwich player goes down, but waved away. Norwich spreading the ball about the pitch going left to right looking to stretch Cambridge inside their own half. Olivia Cook racing into the left channel with the ball is tracked well by Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers the defender getting a toe on the ball to take it out for a throw in the corner. 

Norwich midfielder Katie Knights

  GOAL! The opening goal comes as Norwich exploit the space left on their right as Rachel Kosky looks to get on in support of Wood up the left the ball taken on into the gap open on the right by Todd. crossed into the box, not dealt with Larkins sending it back in for Shaw who turns to slot it past the keeper at close range to score her first Norwich goal 0-1.

Shannon Shaw opening her account for Norwich

  Cambridge falling behind inside the opening 10 minutes looking for a response press the ball Stojko-Down into Wood, closed down by Larkins. Getting hold of the ball on halfway Todd with a powerful run driving into the middle, on towards the box eventually challenged by Rodgers, the hosts attempt to counter the ball played out to Kosky advancing on the left forwards for Sarah Wiltshire coming out to the left, Flye racing across to lunge in take the ball off her for the throw in.

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins

  Tomlinson getting on well for Norwich on the left dinking a deft ball over the top for Olivia Cook in attack for Norwich coming central, Jackson does well to get back on her to get a foot in take the ball away from her before she can attempt a strike. Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten with a good turn on the ball sending a great pass forwards into Wiltshire 25 yards out from goal, bringing the ball down she turns and shoots the strike held comfortably by Bryony Williams in the Norwich goal. 

Cambridge striker, Sarah Wiltshire

  The heavens open up for a brief but steady shower as Norwich continues to get after the ball put Cambridge under pressure the hosts guilty of giving the ball away a little disjointed at the back Norwich prepared to bring players on, Wood and Kosky looking to combine on the left wing for Cambridge the ball sent on for Wiltshire pulling out wide but as before Flye goes out with her to snuff out the ball. 

Knights with Morran in the middle for Norwich playing the ball on for Shaw and Cook up top moving to the right corner of the area exchange passes before sending a dangerous cross racing across the top of the six yard box, Symonds racing in far post not quite able to reach it to deflect it home. Wood taking the ball inside lifts the pass out t Fox on the right gets her head on the ball to push it up for Wiltshire closing down the right channel looking to get the ball under control take it on into the area, Flye gets across her to win the ball back for Norwich.

Cambridge’s Zoe Wood with Norwich’s Freya Symonds

  No advantage play brought back for the free-kick on half way after Todd pulls Wood’s shirt, Jackson to send the ball forwards Norwich win the header, the game competitive with Norwich getting numbers forwards better pressuring Cambridge into some rushed passes presenting the ball back to their opponents. Knights with the pass to release Tomlinson on the left delivers a high cross into the near post, plucked down well by Webb. 

 Cambridge trying to get the ball into their attacking players a pass fed on for Wiltshire in attack right side looks to flick it over her shoulder spin in behind her marker, Flye though reads it giving herself room to stretch a leg out knock the ball out of Wiltshire’s path. Morran winning the ball from Wood in the middle lifts it forwards into Shaw, looking to chase it down Rodgers going with her the defender getting a toe on the ball to take it out for a throw in the corner. Cambridge struggle to get the ball out of their area as Norwich push numbers on flashed in from the left, Cook throws a leg out inside the six yard box, can’t quite connect.

Norwich’s Eloise Morran

  Norwich winning the ball inside the Cambridge half Symonds central releasing Todd on the right taking the ball on Symonds making a run inside the box to the near post Todd cross just behind her still manages to play it back for Knights positioned top of the area to the right of the D stabs her effort wide. Fox has had to be patient on the right old position ready to receive the ball, fed on well by Collins the attacker drives on for the by-line looking to cross Parker getting back on her defending the ball coming off Fox for the goal kick. 

Jackson with a strong tackle at the back for Cambridge to beat Shaw to the ball after Cambridge lose the ball in the middle, the game scrappy and feisty at times Norwich frustrating Cambridge with some good duels all over the park. Wood latching onto a clearance from Williams shifting inside from 30 yards out to shoot can only pick out the goalkeeper with her effort. 

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten

  Cambridge getting players forwards better pushing on the right Fox winning her side a corner players coming forwards the delivery over Jackson at the near post cleared back out of the area to the right, Steele latching onto the shot hit hard, Shaw in the way more than anything else making the block, will feel that one.

 Cambridge caught out in possession high up the pitch Norwich quick to turn play around the ball fired forwards into Shaw looking to run in behind the defence, Jackson just getting there ahead of her to toe the ball back into the box for Webb to clear. Flye is reading the game excellently at the back for Norwich getting into some great positions to win the ball strong as she gets ahead of Wiltshire to win the ball as Wood and Kosky look to link on the left.

  GOAL! And from that attack Flye leads the charge to set Norwich on their way to double the lead taking the ball on all the way to halfway the centre back sends the ball through for Cook racing into the gap open on the right and swings a low and fast cross into the six yard box for Shaw to drive onto and send home for her 2nd of the match 0-2.

A 1st half brace for Norwich’s Shannon Shaw

 Norwich doubling their lead late in the first half exploiting the space left at the back by Cambridge. The hosts battling for the ball in the middle Steele on for Stojko-Down plays the pass out to the right for Fox looking to combine with Wiltshire, Parker does well at the back to knock the ball out of play for a throw. 

Alice Parker

  Norwich comfortable at the back the ball out to Larkins on the right brings it on lifting the ball on for Cook central looking to charge forwards to attack, Rodgers has half a yard on the attacker vital as she stretches for the ball getting it back to her keeper. Otten winning the ball for Cambridge played on for Stojko-Down out to Fox wide right up the line sends it inside for Wilshire to strike on the angle in low saved by Williams.

   Cambridge applying a little pressure back on Fox combining with Wiltshire as they look to chase down the keeper as Williams looks to clear a back pass cleared straight to Collins the full back looks to shoot from distance as defenders rush back into the area, the shot though put straight into Williams who has quick recovered her positioning. 

Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers

  Steele threading the ball through the middle into Stojko-Down outside the area is tackled by Morran before she can adjust to shoot. Cambridge pressing late in the half getting players on Norwich ready to spring the counter.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Norwich City Women

 Norwich leading 2 nil at the break, and good value for it too getting on the front foot committing players forwards have pressed Cambridge high leading to some unforced errors and have exploited the space left exposed at the back to full advantage scoring both goals spreading play while not allowing themselves to be exposed at the other end. The visitors with a competitive 90 minutes under their belts looking to have settled quickly under their new manager. Cambridge with several new signings looking a little disjointed in the first half have work to do if they are to turn the game around second half.

 Neither side making a change at the break as Cambridge get the 2nd period underway the ball played back into the defence Norwich rush forwards to put the ball under pressure straight away leading to the ball being given away, Shaw puling out wide right whipping a cross into the near post, Otten back to head clear for Cambridge. 

Olivia Cook moving in to challenge Cambridge’s Beatrice Rodgers

 The visitors with a high tempo start to the 2nd half won by Knights inside the Cambridge half on for Symonds taking it on into the left channel plays it forwards into Shaw pulling left of goal smashes in an angled drive low to the near post, Webb down smartly to make the save turn the ball behind for the corner kick. Whipped in high from the left, Webb does well to get a glancing fist on the ball take it away to the left, the ball is returned with interest smashing down off the ball before being scrabbled out of the box, Morran onto it left of the D 20 yards does get a clean connection the ball angling wide of the right post caught by Webb.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Kosky advancing with the ball down the left for Cambridge playing it inside for Wiltshire outside the D, turns but Parker is there to stretch a leg out take the ball from her. Parker’s turn to bring the ball out of defence for Norwich finding Symonds well as she makes a run into the right channel, Jackson defending well up against her for Cambridge. Tomlinson races on down Norwich’s left after winning the ball high her cross snuffed out by Rodgers.

  Cambridge looking to get forwards risk the counter as Parker gets hold of the ball for Norwich finds Symonds on the move wide left whips a cross out to Cook on the right puts in infield for Todd who in turn finds Knights inside the D, Rodgers quickly in to close her down prevent the shot for Cambridge. Stojko-Down sending the ball through to Wiltshire and Fox up top looking to link up get in behind Flye gets in to tackle wins the ball back well for Norwich.

Ceri Flye bringing the ball on from the back for Norwich

 Both sides making their first change with 10 minutes of the 2nd half played, Cambridge bringing on new sighing Jess Morley for her debut after Rodgers picks up a knock at the back. Norwich bringing on Natasha Snelling to replace Cook in attack. Norwich pushing up getting a throw high on the left cleared by the Cambridge defence, the visitors quickly have it back with Symonds strong on the left driving into the corner sending a low ball into the box Webb down to claim it.

  GOAL! Snelling making an instant impact from the bench as she scores Norwich’s 3rd. The visitors on the attack on the left with Tomlinson powering on with the ball sending a cross into the six yard box Shaw going for it close on the keeper not quite getting there instead deflecting the ball wide into Snelling’s path to smash home at the far post 0-3.

Natasha Snelling making an instant impact coming off the bench to score Norwich’s 3rd and her 1st of the season.

 Norwich making a change straight after the third goal bringing off Tomlinson and sending on another of their new signings, Hope Strauss. A hammer blow for Cambridge as they look to get themselves back into the match now with a mountain to climb pressing on a caught on the counter with Parker sending the ball long on the left for Shaw to attack, Morley needing to get across to slide in take the ball out for the throw. 

  The cross claimed by Webb off the throw, Norwich make another change bringing off Shaw in attack as they bring on another of their new signings Rachel Lawrence. Norwich on top pressing on in attack the ball whipped into the box from the left, Webb going to claim it getting the decision as she is caught by Todd sticking a leg out trying to reach the ball. Cambridge making another change as they bring off Otten to be replaced by Mayzee Seymour. 

 

  Symonds getting forwards well from the middle for Norwich bursting into the left channel flashing a cross in near post Kosky racing across to head the ball away to safety. Stojko-Down staggered as she is shown a yellow card having been on the receiving end of a number of strong challenges throughout the game. Parker follows close behind as she goes into the referees book. Norwich make a change bringing off 16-year-old Morran to be replaced by Millie Daviss. 

Norwich’s Hope Strauss

 Cambridge winning a free-kick deep on the right, Jackson to send it in Stojko-Down with the lay back into Wood to dink over the top into the area for Wilshire to attack, Williams though out well to gab hold of the ball first. Norwich finding pockets of space out wide Lawrence attacking left sending a ball into the box met near side by Knights her shot saved well by Webb getting down to the floor quickly to smother.

  Norwich looking sharp as the game moves into the final 15 minutes, Cambridge making a change bringing on another of their new signings Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris for Collins. Daviss blasts wide after winning a tackle on Stojko-Down. The visitors making another change bringing in bringing on Jodie Drake to replace Symonds. Wiltshire has been closely marked up top throughout for Cambridge always looking for an opportunity however pulls away to the left breaking into the channel with the ball at her feet is frustrated as she is adjudged to have fouled Flye as she closes her down to try and regain possession.

  Norwich’s turn to get a little sloppy in possession late in the game Cambridge pressing looking to get something from the game Wood winning a free kick high on the left inside her opponents half more or less a corner players up the ball instead played short to Wood outside the box to the left blasted a shot in towards goal stings the goalkeepers hands Williams reacting sharply gloving the ball up into the air, Todd beside her with a strong headed clearance. 

  Cambridge attacking right Wiltshire on with the ball into Seymour played back into the middle for Wood, Knights sliding in to tackle win the ball back.

  GOAL! With Cambridge committing players forwards they are caught on the counter the ball given away played through the middle on for Lawrence breaking through the middle to attack the box the defence back peddling puts the ball out to Drake bursting on right of the area to hit a low drive across the keeper and into the bottom corner 0-4.

Jodie Drake blasting home Norwich’s 4th

  7 minutes of regular time left Norwich in control of the tie Cambridge hurting looking for a reply Fox strong to get the ball down on the right sending a cross into the area cleared by Flye for Norwich. 

  GOAL! 4 quickly becomes 5, Drake getting onto the ball in the middle for Norwich sending a fantastic ball on to pick out Lawrence breaking clear wide on the left bursting forwards fires a vicious cross into the six yard box giving Webb no chance as Snelling comes sliding in turn the ball over the line for her 2nd of the game 0-5.

2 goals for Natasha Snelling

  Norwich break to send the back home for what they think is a 6th goal with Snelling playing the ball out to Todd right before she breaks into the box Todd sends the cross in to the near post Snelling throwing herself at it to volley the ball high into the net but she’s denied a hat-trick by a raised offside flag. Cambridge get onto the ball central played on for Seymour up top to attack the area in a race with Flye as Williams comes rushing out the keeper colliding with the pair nevertheless laying claim the the ball.

Norwich goalkeeper Bryony Williams claiming the ball after rushing out to close down Mayzee Seymour and Ceri Flye

  Cambridge fighting to the end Stojko-Down on for Wiltshire tries to knock it down for Fox rushing on behind her central but the move doesn’t quite come off. Wood advancing on the left whipping a high ball into the area Williams confidently claiming it. Norwich ready to pounce in attack as Cambridge lose the ball lifted on for Snelling outside the area left of the D drags her shot wide of the near post. The visitors determined to keep a clean sheet as the game moves into the dying seconds Williams rushing out of her area to clear a hopeful ball over the top.  

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-5 Norwich City Women

  Norwich through to the League Cup proper with a convincing 5-0 win over Cambridge who now go into the League Plate competition. A strong performance from Norwich, coach Martin Herdman must be pleased with his sides performance, asked for attacking flowing football and they certainly delivered today getting after the ball committing players forwards and in turn forcing errors from their opponents while remaining solid at the back. A few thing’s to work on so he can keep the squad on the ground but a pleasing start. Cambridge with plenty to work on when they return to the training pitch, a disappointing loss but overall not the end of the world several new faces to bed it and manager Darren Marjoram hasn’t had a full squad to work with during pre-season will take a little time for everyone to gel, but will be looking for a response heading into their league campaign.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match and unlike last time out this one is a tough one with several contenders. A few performances to mention. A difficult day for Cambridge however under pressure at times defenders Beatrice Rodgers and Abbie Jackson put in a number of vital tackles. Zoe Wood looked to make thing’s happen with the ball at her feet, with Alysha Stojko-Down playing some good balls on into the attackers. Norwich were strong all over the park, Freya Symonds got about the pitch well getting into some great positions to receive and take the ball on. Likewise Katie Knights and Eloise Morran were strong in the middle. Natasha Snelling with an instant impact from the bench coming on to score a brace. Alice Parker and Ceri Flye strong in defence. The line led well by Olivia Cook and Shannon Shaw who narrowly clinches it for me from the off getting after the Cambridge defence opening her Norwich account with a 1st half brace that set Norwich on the path to victory, provided great runs throughout. 

  An exciting encounter form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, provides plenty of drama without ultimately giving much away to the outcome of either competition now it begins in earnest and both sides will want to do well. A good day out at St Neots getting used to the new car and it will be clocking up plenty of miles. Thanks to both teams for their help today and good luck with the competition going forwards.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Tuesday 25th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

sponsored by the Alan Boswell Group

A trip into Cambridgeshire this Tuesday evening to watch the final of the Women’s Invitation Cup being played at Cambridge United FC’s Abbey Stadium. Once again an all Cambridge affair with Cambridge United WFC back in the competition playing Cambridge City Ladies the current cup holders.

  The FAWNL South East Division One sides the highest league based sides in the county have dominated the Invitation Cup in recent season’s enjoying a healthy rivalry with Cambridge City making a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid to join United in the 4th tier of the women’s game. 

This evening’s prize

Cambridge United WFC re-joining the Invitation Cup competition after a season away competing in the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup. Playing their home games at St Neots Town FC, Laura Mitchell scoring a late winner to see them beat St Ives Town Ladies to lift the cup. Mitchell one of several players to move on over the close season with the club seeing alot a changes to the squad as they began a new and stronger relation with Cambridge United FC, the League One club setting up a women’s board with closer ties men’s club which has included a number of games being played at The Abbey Stadium this season with their final league game against Actonians Ladies being held their this coming Sunday.

  With several new faces coming in and injury set backs to others Cambridge United WFC haven’t found the consistency they would have liked and after a promising start have struggled to get points on the board on a regular basis. Down in 8th place never in danger of being pulled into the drop zone (no non- existent with the sad withdrawal of two sides) A late late winner from Sarah Wiltshire, away to Chesham United Ladies in their penultimate league fixture seeing United set up what could be a positive end to the campaign with a cup final this evening and league finale at The Abbey Stadium. Sarah Wiltshire the clubs marque signing over the close season, with a wealth of experience playing at this level is well clear in the goal scoring charts netting 16 from 20 appearances. Aiming to make it a double in the county cup competitions with their Development side winning the Junior Invitation Cup 10 days ago.

 Cambridge City Ladies too enduring a tough season currently bottom of FAWNL South East Division One although with two sides gone no threat of relegation. Just the one league win all season that coming all the way back on the opening day. A further point gained ironically at The Abbey Stadium in their league fixture with United earlier in the year. Still have a chance of getting off the bottom of the table with their final league game away to Chesham United Ladies who themselves have struggled for points just 2 above. Beating, Newmarket Town Women 5-1 in last season’s final to win the Invitation Cup.

  Alot of changes at the club under a new management team has seen alot of player departures the side vastly changed from that which secured victory on the opening day. The club has always had a strong youth policy and set-up with young talent always coming through the 1st team well backed up by an U23s side and Development team. Several young players have found themselves promoted to the first team and have risen to the challenge. One of those attacker Sophie Billing who has scored 32 goals in 11 appearances for Cambridge City’s U18s side currently top of the U18 league in Cambridgeshire with a 10% record. Becca Stephenson top scoring for the first team with 6 goals. Have had terrible luck with injuries too most recently losing experienced defender Bronwyn Mulheron who dislocated her knee playing against league champions Hashtag United Women. Like United a good opportunity to end a difficult season on a positive note.

Road to the Final

  Both sides entering the competition at the 2nd Round stage, Cambridge United progressing without kicking a ball awarded the A-w win over Park Ladies who would go on to reach the Junior Invitation Cup Final eventually beaten by United’s Development side. Cambridge City away to Cambridgeshire Division Two side March Town United Ladies. A grace Stanley hat-trick, along with a brace for Shannon Shaw with a goal each for Karly Tolentino, Lauren Tomlinson and Becca Stephenson securing a 9-0 win.

  Into the quarter finals, United away to Cambridgeshire Division One side Leverington Sports Ladies. City at home were also taking on Cambridgeshire Division One opposition in Cambridge Rangers WFC. Emphatic score lines for both with United scoring 7 without reply. City going one better netting 8 without conceding.

Into the semi-finals United and City kept apart in the draw, United hosting last season’s finalists Newmarket Town Women, a first half brace for both Francesca Partridge and Sarah Wiltshire seeing United leading 4-0 at the break before going on to win 6-0 with Wiltshire getting her hat-trick. City away to Division one side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, a brace each for Ellie Cullum and Becca Stephenson with a goal too for Rose Sparrow seeing City into the final courtesy of a 5-1 victory.

The Abbey Stadium once again hosting the Women’s Invitation Cup, the League One ground the grass pitch immaculate, the sun bright with a little heat left in it setting over the terraced stand opposite the main stand. Filling up nicely for the final. Hot and cold food and drink available. Was in a bit of a rush and wanting a cup of tea, decided to try one of the gourmet burgers, can highly recommend was very nice.

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Harley-Jean Simpson, Ruth Fox, Francesca Partridge & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Jorja Badcock, Serena Cobb, Natasha Collins, Libby Fraser & Niamh Day. 

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Lexi Pryke, Jess Fitzpatrick, Amy Reed, Millie Struthers, Rosie Mead, Ellen Marson, Rose Sparrow, Jess Wood, Becca Stephenson & Haile Richards. Subs – Olivia White, Sophie Billing, Sarah Payne, Jennifer Moore & Olivia Briffa.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Several players missing through injury and unavailability for both sides with 6 1st team regulars out for United, defender Rachel Kosky turning her ankle at the weekend the latest casualty. That sees United calling on their Junior Invitation Cup winning side with, Niamh Day, Libby Fraser, Serena Cobb and Jorja Badcock named on the bench along with Natasha Collins returning from injury. City likewise losing players to injury with several of their experienced players side lined, a young squad named with most U20. It’s United to get the 202223 Invitation Cup final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks with City lined up opposite wearing white coloured shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. The ball played back to Sammy Edgar in midfield out to Carrie Bennett at left back City rushing on to press the ball forcing united to play the ball all the way back to goalkeeper Lauren Webb to clear.

United attack down the right flank the ball fed on for Ruth Fox down in the corner turns to dig a cross out into the area dropping for Francesca Partridge in the clear top of the six yard box sees the ball down and shapes to shoot, City goalkeeper and captain Sarah Hudson coming in to make the blocking save at close range getting something on the ball is deflected off her behind rolling for the bottom corner, Millie Struthers getting back clearing the ball off the line. United coming close in the opening couple of minutes.

Ruth Fox (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Abi Davies with the ball on to Fox right side played the ball inside finding Harley-Jean Simpson central 20 yard out lifts the ball into the box for Sarah Wiltshire whose first time shot is straight at Hudson. United making a positive start getting the ball into the City half Wiltshire sending the ball out to Partridge wide left she attempts the return pass finding Wiltshire breaking into the box however the offside flag curtails a goal scoring opportunity. Pressing the ball in midfield, Sammy Edgar lifts a pass out to Partridge pulling wide left, Jess Fitzpatrick getting back at her tackling for City.

Wiltshire running away with the ball at her feet on the left cutting inside her marker to get into the area right corner, Hudson racing out to clear the ball, cleared as she and Wiltshire collide, some think it’s a penalty, but the free-kick goes the other way with Wiltshire the one who catches Hudson on her follow through trying to get the ball. Hudson down for a moment but is okay to play on.

Cambridge City Ladies Lexi Pryke with Cambridge United’s Sarah Wiltshire (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Rose Sparrow taking the ball on through the middle for City lifting it into Haile Richards in attack back to goal 25 yards out holding it up well before rolling it back to the advancing Sparrow to strike goalwards from distance, United goalkeeper, Lauren Webb catching confidently. The ball with Edgar in midfield United’s attackers race forwards, Edgar attempting the placed pass in behind, a vital interception by Fitzpatrick. City win a free-kick on halfway to the left the ball send long up into the United area cleared out to the left, Lexi Pryke getting hold of it 25 yards out struck wide across goal.

Fitzpatrick getting back at Wiltshire on United’s left to challenge and clear the ball as she looks to drive into the area. United seeing more of the ball playing the ball across the pitch. United winning a free-kick deep inside the City half to the left, Wiltshire launching the ball in towards the top of the area headed out to the right, Fox after it with a turn and hit from 20 yards out pulled wide of the right post. United’s attackers lively Wiltshire moving across the line finding Fox on the right her cross lifted into the six yard box, Hudson up to claim with Partridge closing in.

Simpson up with Partridge on the left wins a corner as her cross is deflected behind of a City defender. Taken by Wiltshire on the left, swung in near post cleared back out to her by Fitzpatrick, moving up the line for a better angle hits a curling shot wide past the far post. Richards coming into midfield getting the ball off Jess Wood advancing right, holding off Carri Bennett sends the pass wide for Wood racing down the right, Lauren Rouse getting across to win the ball clear it for a throw.

Harley-Jean Simpson (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Richards strong holding up the ball turns and drives forwards for City central before being brought down 35 yards out winning the set-piece. The ball floated into the area attacked far post nodded down towards goal, Webb down to her left sharply the ball turned behind for the corner. Swept in long across the face of goal beat away at the far post, United look to get on the counter Wiltshire carrying the ball away left side, Simpson up with her the pass into her Struthers cutting out the return pass intended for Wiltshire.

City settling down now after United’s strong start getting in to win the ball, players spread out at times, picking the final pass tricky. United captain, Gisela Otten playing the ball on for United’s attackers, Wiltshire sending out out to Partridge left of the D 20 yards out, has more time that she realises, taking the shot her effort pulled wide of the near post. Wood taking the ball on down City’s right, Rouse going with her sliding in to win the ball back for United.

Cambridge United WFC captain, Gisela Otten with Cambridge City’s Rosie Mead (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Simpson bringing the ball on for United running into the left channel pushed out to Partridge wide, looking to open up her body thread the low diagonal ball into Wiltshire’s path outside the D, Struthers in the way intercepting to play it back into her keeper to clear. United attacking on the left Bennett advanced up with Partridge winning a throw high, dropped into Wiltshire’s feet coming back off the by-line to wrap her foot around the cross fired into the six yard box, Pryke clearing for City.

Wiltshire with alot of running with the ball taking it on for Edgar in midfield racing forwards tackled by City’s Rosie Mead. Davies on the right coming on with the ball for United playing a diagonal ball across to Partridge out left side dragging it down ahead of her sweeps a long pass out to Fox looking to get into the box from the right, Pryke cutting the ball out for City.

Ellen Marson linking up with Mead in the middle the ball clipped out out Becca Stephenson out on the left flank, taking the ball on down the line, Davies getting back at her to tackle for United. Partridge picked out on the left by the diagonal pass bringing the ball down sends a cross into the six yard box from 25 yards out Wiltshire surging in throwing up a boot getting to the ball before the keeper prods the ball wide of the left post.

Cambridge United’s Abi Davies( photo credit Ben Phillips)

Davies combining with Fox on the right lifting a cross into the City area, headed clear by Amy Reed. United continue to knock on the door with 35 minutes played Wiltshire with a shot on goal from 25 yards out left of the D, held by Hudson. Rouse bringing the ball up from the back for United into the City half right channel out to Wiltshire near the top right corner, the ball at her feet turns inside to shoot, her attempt straight forwards for the keeper, Hudson taking it high.

Edgar showing great passing ability as she tries again to clip a long ball into Partridge pulling away left, Fitzpatrick stabbing a foot out to take the ball away from her. United regain possession quickly inside the City half Simpson lively after the ball.

GOAL! Players getting up the pitch Bennett fed the ball on the left taking it to the by-line checking back to burst into the area before smashing a cross into the six yard box, Wiltshire pouncing to send the ball past the keeper central to opening the scoring in the 40th minute 1-0.

Sarah Wiltshire with the opening goal for Cambridge United WFC (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Edgar playing the pass forwards into Wiltshire left of the D 25 yards out, Bennett rushing on up the line in support, City racing back to defend, Sparrow getting there to regain possession before Bennett can get in behind. United lively at the end of the half coming on at will right side the ball lifted into the area Reed’s clearance dropping for Simpson 25 yards out central shifts the ball between her feet before placing her shot straight at the keeper.

Wiltshire flagged offside as she breaks in between the City centre backs looking to get onto the end of another Edgar pass. City making a change bring Sophie Billing on for Wood. Wiltshire is brought down on the right outside the box as she looks to take the ball on from Fox. The set-piece sent over. Wiltshire taking the ball on left played on by Partridge, held up by Fitzpatrick sends it back to Simpson 30 yards out drags the ball inside before shooting, no power on the strike caught by Hudson. A double change coming for City late in the first half with Sarah Payne and Jennifer Moore coming on for Marson and Sparrow. Time for one last United attack from the right the ball landing in the side netting.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  United with a strong 1st half performance seeing more of the ball getting forwards well with numbers putting the City back line under pressure, an early effort cleared off the line. Opportunities created the dead lock finally broken in the 40th minute. Sarah Wiltshire’s goal the difference between the sides at the break. City have worked hard to fight for the ball having little opportunity to test the defence at the other end one chance turned wide by the keeper off a set-piece. At one nil however remain very much in the final and one chance could put them back on level terms, question is can they keep United out at the other end.

City making another change at the start of the 2nd half bringing on Olivia White for Struthers. United unchanged with City having the kick-off 2nd half the ball played back into the middle before being put out to White on the left, Davies getting back at her to challenge for the ball. City looking to make a fast start 2nd half pressing United on the ball a shot from distance dragged wide from the right. Payne winning the ball forwards into Richards, closely marked by Jackson.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

Payne with the ball turning central to send the pass out to Stephenson on the right threads it through to Richards breaking into the area from the right, tracked all the way to the by-line running out of room back heels the ball back into the area, no one arriving to attack it. An open start to the 2nd half City making a few tactical switches United needing time to adjust too. Stephenson taking the ball on over halfway right laying the pass forwards for Richards bursting clear right channel, Webb racing out of her area to clear just about getting there first. United regroup the ball won by Edgar in midfield on to Wiltshire her diagonal ball looking for Partridge pulling into the area left, Fitzpatrick winning it for City

GOAL!  United regaining momentum push players forwards keeping possession out on the left the ball put inside to Edgar outside the box, puts her foot through the ball, powering a wonderful strike into the top corner across the keeper to double the lead 2-0.

Sammy Edgar scoring for Cambridge United WFC (photo credit Ben Phillips)

United 2-0 inside the first 5 minutes of the 2nd half a blow for City as they look to start the half on the front foot. Edgar carded moments after scoring with an over zealous tackle on City’s Reed as she brings the ball out from the back. Simpson playing the ball out to Bennett running on down the left flank, tackled by Fitzpatrick. Stephenson attacking out on the right for City her cross squared into the D, looking for Richards, Davies nipping in to clear for United.

Fox on the right seeing the ball down well flicking in on cleverly behind the defence after it heading it on, not quite under control as Reed stretches a leg to clear. Wiltshire taking the ball on across the top of the City area tripped winning a free-kick in a dangerous position right of the D. Over the free-kick smashes a low strike past the wall looking for the inside if the left post, Hudson with a fantastic save getting down to push the ball away behind for the corner to the left.

City certainly competing better 2nd half the ball being closed down in the middle a few tackles coming in free-kicks given away. Stephenson getting hold of a long pass floated into the D back to goal turns to her left taking the ball inside, Jackson close in staying on her to put in a well timed tackle to win the ball back for United. Reed defending at the other end inside her box heading the ball clear with Wiltshire closing in following Otten’s hooked clearance upfield.

GOAL! City win a corner out of nothing on the right as the ball runs behind following a challenge up field, an opportunity to get players into the box. A high ball looped down into the six yard box, Pryke running in jumping well to power her header in of a United defender over the keeper pulling a goal back on the hour. 2-1.

Game on United look for a quick response Simpson’s diagonal ball out to the left Partridge caught offside. Fox shoved in the back United winning a free-kick out on the right the ball in from Davies long to the far post a looping attempt put long past the far post retrieved on the right wide on the angle a high ball back in threatening to drop under Hudson’s crossbar the goalkeeper claiming it above her head.

Simpson getting hold of the ball left brought down outside the box presenting United with another set-piece. Wiltshire firing the ball in towards the near post on the angle, Hudson coming claiming well. United making their first switch bringing off Fox in attack sending on Niamh Day. City winning a throw high on the left, the ball played into Billing the attacker turning knocking the ball into the box, slightly over hit, Webb rushing out to close her down dive at her feet, Billing jumping in rashly catching Webb. A free-kick for United Webb needing a few moments to recover is okay to play on. 

  Wiltshire putting the City defence under pressure capitalising on a mis-cue to latch onto the ball and take it on into the area right of goal, never quite having it under control, screws her shot wide at the near post as Reed gets back to challenge. The competitiveness gone up a notch City with their tails up having pulled a goal back a few nerves showing from United. City winning a free-kick on half way the ball lifted up to the top of the area initially headed clear by Jackson, the shot struck from distance wide of the left post.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

   City push on left side with Billing finding Stephenson out wide, checking back inside 25 out, rolls the ball inside for Moore who in turn puts it into Mead’s path hitting the shot from all of 30 yard out the effort blasted wide. City making a switch bringing Billing off with Wood returning to the field. Payne playing the ball forwards into Richards inside the D, Jackson in to block her attempt at goal the ball rebounding away. Rouse feeling her knee goes down requiring treatment both sides going to their benches to take on fluids and instructions with a little over 15 minutes left to play.

  United on the ball a great diagonal pass picking out Partridge bursting into the box from the left, Hudson rushing out to close her down, Partridge getting her foot up to lob the ball over the keeper, Reed racing back towards goal clearing the ball off the line.  City making a double change bringing on Olivia Briffa and Sparrow for Reed and White. United also making a substitution, Partridge coming off, Fox returning to the field to the left of attack. 

  City winning a free-kick wide left push players up into the box the ball fed into the six yard box, Webb up to punch the ball clear, falls to Stephenson right of the D, her strike charged down, Payne onto the ball to strike from distance Webb behind it plucking the ball down comfortably. United giving free-kicks away late in the game encouraging City to push players up, Pryke to play the ball forwards form the top of the centre circle knocked back out of the area straight to Stephenson, Simpson racing out to close her down for United. The 90 minutes almost up 4 minute of added time to be played.

  City getting another free-kick inside the United half 30 yards out Pryke again over the ball central, takes on the shot curling the ball towards the right post, Webb diving to save send the ball behind for a corner kick. Swung into the mix inside the six yard box, Edgar getting behind the ball to scramble it clear, City pressing the ball eventually out for a goal kick. 

  United get the ball away into the City half on the left a corner won, taken short they look to keep it there run down the clock. City sending the ball away up the right winning a throw high, played across to Sparrow out on the left her cross flung into the box, cleared by Fox. 

 GOAL! United break the ball sent forwards into Day’s path as she races forwards on the right wing taking the ball on towards the box produces a wonderful strike to send the ball looping across the keeper to land in side the goal at the far post! Day wheeling away with her arms wide in celebration in front of the fans the 3rd goal surely winning the game for United 3-1.

Niamh Day securing the win for United at the death (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  Little time left United making a change bringing on Natasha Collins for Davies to see out the closing seconds, no time for City to get another attack in as the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  Cambridge United WFC winning the Invitation Cup final 3-1. With the bulk of the chances making a positive start to the game, goal line clearances and goalkeeping saves keeping United out 1st half until Carrie Bennett cut into the area from the left to send the ball across goal for Sarah Wiltshire to score. 1-0 at the break City making changes starting the 2nd half well before conceding a 2nd goal. Kept plugging away getting a goal back on the hour as Lexi Pryke headed the ball home, very much game on then as City grew in confidence and United became a little nervous giving away free-kicks, had more chances however to score riding out some late City pressure to break away and score a 3rd clinching goal in the dying moments of the match. A valiant effort from Cambridge City’s youngsters may well have been thrown in at the deep end, but will have gained valuable experience and have performed well, certainly in the games I’ve seen they never give up and wins have to be earned one last effort needed away to Chesham on Sunday to see if they can get the win needed to get themselves off the bottom of the table. Cambridge United with one last game at The Abbey Stadium to come this Sunday taking on 4th placed Actonians Ladies, winning the cup will be up for the match.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. The Cambridge derby in whatever format always a committed affair with both sides giving it there all. Several players out for both. Cambridge City’s young side battled throughout giving United something to think about 2nd half. Sarah Hudson in goal with some vital saves. Jess Fitzpatrick with a good performance at right back, with some well timed tackling and interceptions. Harley-Jean Simpson with some great ball control and runs in the final third. Francesca Partridge and Ruth Fox providing great outlets on the flanks in attack linking up with Sarah Wiltshire who herself made some excellent runs and created goal scoring chances opening the scoring. The award goes to midfielder Sammy Edgar was strong on the ball showing a great range of passing and getting stuck in to win the ball back, a fantastic strike for United’s 2nd goal. First saw her playing for Watton Ladies in Beds & Herts Division Two has risen up through the pyramid into regional football, this season her first at tier 4 wanting to test herself at a higher level has been a consistent performer for United, rising to the occasion. 

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

Cambridge United WFC 2022/23 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup winners

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning the 2022/23 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

 An enjoyable evening at The Abbey Stadium with the crowd seeing another entertaining and commit encounter between City and United. My thanks to both sides for the team details and to the staff at the ground and Cambs FA for their help and to Ben Phillips for the additional pictures used in the report.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Wednesday 22nd February

FAWNL South East Division One

 Midweek football action from The Abbey Stadium this Wednesday evening with a game from FAWNL South East Division One the Cambridge derby with Cambridge United WFC hosting Cambridge City Ladies.

One time together the Cambridge Women breaking away from City to become an established club in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid merging with Cambridge United FC with the link between the clubs male and female sides becoming closer with a new women’s board at the start of the season. Cambridge City building on their strong youth set-up to rise rapidly through the pyramid themselves to join their local rivals in South East Division One.

A healthy rivalry exists between the two, a local derby always bringing with it an extra bit of spice into any league campaign. City often a thorn in United’s side over the past few season’s United have had the upper hand so far this campaign beating City both in league and cup competitions.

Cambridge United WFC now fully integrated with Cambridge United FC, with a new women’s board and better youth development through the centre of excellence. Playing a number of matches at The Abbey Stadium this season including this evenings derby, have games against London Seaward FC and Actonians Ladies to come. Currently 7th in the FAWNL South East Division One table have lost ground on the top six over recent games and will want to improve their points tally get back amongst it. Several players coming and going over the close season with Sarah Wiltshire the marquee signing with lots of experience playing in the FAWNL the striker netting 15 goals so far this season. New players joining all the time as they look to build a strong competitive squad one of those ex-City player Bella Simmons who was at United before enjoying a successful spell with their local rivals. Hitting the ground running with 2 goals in 4 matches plus player of the match displays.

  Cambridge City Ladies themselves appear to be in something of a transitional phase with several changes to the management team and playing personnel over the past months. The club build on a strong youth set-up that still remains the foundation with plenty of young talent coming through. Of late though have lost several senior players including Simmons and top scorer Grace Stanley moving to QPR. Young players pushed up to meet the challenge of playing in the FAWNL, have added Eva Hubbard, ex Ipswich captain, Sarah Payne formerly with Harlow Town Ladies and striker Haile Richards from Biggleswade as they look to get away from the bottom of the table with just one win on the board before this evenings game lay 2nd bottom. Although bottom side Hounslow Women are struggling to fin a side let alone a win you don’t want to e in that position. Far from ideal preparations for the match to with City travelling to Hounslow on Sunday only to find their opponents couldn’t field a team!

   This evening seeing a tribute to Cambridge United WFC’s, Kayleigh-Anne Burt. Retiring from football after playing for the club for17 years, coming through the centre of excellence at 16 with 300 appearances going on to become club captain, winning several county cups along the way. The defender a much loved member of the club. From a personal point of view, one of my favourite players have enjoyed watching her play. From my early days of coming to watch Cambridge Women made me feel welcome and always helpful and approachable. A leader on and off the field loyal to the club, a true legend. Wishing Kayleigh all the best for for whatever comes after football. Enjoy your footballing retirement.

Kayleigh-Anne Burt retiring after 17 years playing for Cambridge United WFC

Tonight’s derby match one of a number of Cambridge United WFC matches to be played at The Abbey Stadium as they look to get more people watching the woman’s team showcase women’s football within the county and beyond. A League One stadium with a fantastic playing surface. The main stand open with hot food and drinks available. The weather remain unusually mild and pleasant for February, dry and still.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Mayzee Seymour, Carrie Bennett, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Sammy Edgar, Gisela Otten (C), Sydnie Naylor, Ella Mardon, Francesca Partridge & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Libby Fraser, Kaylen Gerkey.

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Emily Struthers, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Fran Steele, Paige Gardiner, Erin Davies, Rebecca Stephenson, Jess Fitzpatrick, Eva Hubbard & Haile Richards. Subs – Sarah Payne, Ellen Marson, Rose Sparrow, Alexandra Pryke & Sophie Billing.

United losing Bella Simmons and midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down due to injuries picked up in the weekends friendly match in preparation for tonight’s match. Both ides with 5 available on the bench. It’s City to kick-off the first half wearing white shirts with back shorts and black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played long out to the left side for Eva Hubbard seen safely out of play by United’s Mayzee Seymour.

City work the ball inside from the throw in the diagonal pass put long into the box for attacker Haile Richards right side heads into the corner played up the line for Amy Reed drives towards the right corner of the area a strong challenge from defender Rachel Kosky for United seeing the attack quelled the ball cleared.

Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City with a free-kick wide left an early opportunity to send players forwards attacked left of the D, deflected towards goal, goalkeeper Lauren Webb right behind it to claim safely. Kosky with a long range pass forwards from the back looking for Francesca Partridge on the left side, intercepted by City’s Emily Struthers at the back. United rush in to close the ball down in the middle of the park played on by Sammy Edgar to Partridge has full back Carrie Bennett racing on to support the ball rolled into her path crosses it in towards the top of the area central headed clear by City’s Fran Steele.

Women’s Football East sponsored player, Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to get the ball moving rapidly take the game to their opponents Kosky forwards for Edgar looking for Partridge making a left channel run. Struthers getting their first to cut out the ball. Partridge with good footwork to get inside her marker on the left, has Sarah Wiltshire coming across as she turns infield finds her with the pass Wiltshire heading for the area held up, United get numbers up to press the ball back to Partridge left her cross claimed by City goalkeeper and captain, Sarah Hudson.

Certainly has a derby feel with United working to close the ball down keep possession in City’s half of the pitch Wiltshire running at the defence, both Steele and Bronwyn Mulheron putting tackles in to deny her an opportunity to shoot. Cleared from the back into Jessie Fitzpatrick central City mount an attack played on for Richards up top turns playing it out right to Reed racing up the pitch, her cross squared back across the top of the area intercepted and cleared by Edgar for United.

Bronwyn Mulheron tackling United’s Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United seeing more of the ball in the early exchanges but City are working hard at the back prevent anyone getting in behind. Steele with a vital touch to head the bouncing ball out of the marauding Wiltshire’s path at the top of the box as she attempts to run onto a well placed ball clipped on from the middle. Fitzpatrick taking the ball right for City getting on before sending a cross into the United box, won by centre back, Lauren Rouse.

Bennett finding space to run into on the left giving good support to Partridge looks to play the diagonal ball forwards into Wiltshire as the United striker, Hudson alert to the threat out of her six yard box to get to the flight of the ball first. United pressing on Sydnie Naylor combining with Ella Marden on the right, Hubbard breaking up play for City. United captain Gisela Otten closing the ball down to keep the pressure on City on for Naylor lifted on for Wiltshire, Hudson again out to the top of her area early to grab the ball.

Sydnie Naylor on the attack (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to dictate a high tempo the full backs able to get on keep City pushed back inside their own half. Wiltshire dispossessed, City try to mount a quick counter on for Fitzpatrick through the middle into Richards, Rouse quickly into her to tackle prevent the potential attack. Wiltshire getting her own back moments later stealing the ball off Steele at the back 20 yards out knocking it on into the area, racing after it, Hudson advancing to the ball throwing herself down to slide in bravely at the attackers feet getting her body behind the ball to save.

Wiltshire always lively up top moving about the back line a willing runner and outlet for the forwards pass, Partridge attempts to pick her out with  diagonal ball, Steele winning it for City. United with a free-kick inside the City half to the right players up lined up across the top of the rea fired in, Otten seeing it into her feet 20 yards out with the turn and volley deflected through bodies into the six yard box. Wiltshire after it but can’t quite get to the ball as it skips up in front of Hudson and is caught.

Cambridge City’s Fran Steele

United advance left a throw won Bennett into Wiltshire drags the ball inside lining up a strike from 25 yards out rising is straight to Hudson and claimed by the goalkeeper. 20 minutes played United pressing the advantage Wiltshire collecting the ball from a deeper position lifting it on for Naylor racing on through the middle, City get back en masse to deny her a route through towards goal.

GOAL! United maintain the pressure in midfield as City attempt to clear their lines, Wiltshire sharp pulling off to the right inside the box as the ball is won back and lifted forwards seeing it drop over her smashes it past the keeper into the back of the net to score the opening goal 1-0.

Sarah Wiltshire on target for the opening goal for United (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United leading 1-0 (photo credit Sean Doyle)

16 goals from 16 games for Wilshire now putting United into a deserved lead the hosts coming onto City. Mulheron getting a foot in in the nick of time on Partridge as United break through the middle, the ball running away for a corner kick. The delivery into a busy six yard box headed away to the right, before play is stopped by a raised flag.

Kosky getting her foot in to deny Richards up top for City as she attempts to see the ball roll across her body and turn from a Hubbard pass from the left. Richards and Fitzpatrick combining as the pair come on for City right channel, Bennett defending for United. Erin Davies frustrated in the centre of midfield for City with a good tackle to get the ball forwards into Fitzpatrick, her threaded pass forwards unable to find Richards up top. A few fouls being given away by City as they look to get themselves going.

Mulheron getting back well on Wiltshire to defend for City as the United striker takes the ball off Marden on the right and turns inside making a run for the box. Kosky allowed time on the ball at the back able to pick a pass goes long with Wiltshire pulling off the defence, too much on it however Hudson taking it safely. Steele cuts the ball out at the back as Wiltshire drifting over to the left looks to find Partridge through the middle, the clearance as has been often the case quickly coming back with Edgar, Naylor and Otten in this case winning the ball back for United.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Bennett bombing on left side her pass on catching Partridge offside. Otten central out to Marden on the right has support from Wiltshire the pass inside, shifts to go one way checking back inside Mulheron adjusting to get her foot in to take the ball away from her. Hubbard drifting into a central position with a telling pass forwards for City cutting the United defence open Richards running on, Webb though sharp to respond out quickly to the top of the area to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge United captain, Gisela Otten (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City battling for possession Davies with the ball long on the diagonal to Richards making a run into the area, Kosky getting across her the defender shielding the ball out for goal kick. United with the ball high on the left Bennett up with Partridge and Wiltshire playing a short triangle the ball coming to Wilshire outside the box left of the D, Davies tracking back from midfield getting the  block in to deny the shot.

City with a few encouraging signs towards the latter stages of the first half the ball played into Richards feet 20 odd yards out central does well to roll her marker shift the ball right and turn onto the shot a vicious drive on target low comes onto Webb quickly improvises well with a fantastic save with her shins as she falls back to deflect the ball away to the right. Pressure from Partridge sees the ball lost on the City right picks out Naylor central forwards to Wilshire, Fitzpatrick with the challenge for City.

Cambridge City captain Sarah Hudson sliding in to deny Sarah Wiltshire in the 1st half (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  United with the lead at half-time Sarah Wiltshire’s 16th goal of the season the difference between the sides scoring in the 20th minute. A dominant first half from the hosts with City sitting back soaking up alot of pressure. Have battled well to keep their opponents chances limited with Wiltshire getting on clear chance in behind the defence to score. City have been frustrated but showed signs towards the end of the first half that they are far from out of the game and with the lead just a single goal the result is far from certain.

No changes for either side at the break with United to get the 2nd half underway in front of a crowd of 371. The ball played back into midfield, City straight in the close the ball down the action frantic at the start as the ball in hustled all over the pitch. City working the ball across the pitch out to the right claimed by Wedd in the United goal.

Partridge on through the middle with a good touch to send the ball on towards the box, Hudson out well to clear. City get the ball on through the middle Hubbard more central on for Richards a race with Rouse towards the box the United defender getting to the ball to clear. Bennett still getting forwards on the left for United on for Wilshire, Reed coming back at her to win the ball back for City. A much more even start to the 2nd half City getting into United higher up the pitch to disrupt play a little bitty at times with passes being forced and possession lost.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

United have a break on Wiltshire moving right on for Naylor, Mulheron stretching to make the challenge getting hold of the ball. Richards frustrated as she gives away a foul kicking the ball away, a word from the referee. City getting into United higher up the pitch is seeing the passes forwards into Wiltshire restricted. Hubbard linking with Davies in the middle on for Richards, Kosky getting in close to challenge for United.

Stephenson out left for City seeing the ball into her feet back to goal spins off her marker well to check inside the pass for Richards intercepted by Edgar for United. Stephenson with another clever turn this time frustrated as the flag goes up against her. Edgar coming forwards with the ball at her feet right channel on for Wiltshire making a run down the line checking back on the by-line up towards the corner of the area getting a looping shot away looking for the top corner drops into Hudson’s waiting gloves.

Haile Richards with Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City much improved with Hubbard in with Davies allowing the visitors number 8 more time to pick a pass give the attacking plyers something to run onto. United under a bit of pressure now themselves at the back. Richards on the run with the ball right side bundled over City with the free-kick 35 yards out, Hubbard over it an ambitious effort going for goal, out straight at Webb the goalkeeper untroubled.

Erin Davies (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Edgar fouled coming forwards for United inside the City half. Naylor playing the ball low in towards the top of the area Wiltshire putting it across the D, City scramble it clear. City with a set-piece launched into the box, a firm header from Kosky to clear for United. Bennett left up to Partridge attempting to flick it on behind and run onto the ball gives herself too much to do as Hudson rushes out to claim the ball. City making their first change bringing on 16-year-old Sophie Billing for her first team debut, for Struthers going up top sees a shift of personnel, City feeling they’re right back in the game.

Kosky pushing up on Richards the striker doing well to drag the ball wide and spin in behind feeding the pass on for Billing up top clear to attack, Webb out to get to the ball top of her area. Billing combining with Stephenson in attack on the left, Seymour seeing it out for the throw, the cross played into the top of the area hooked clear by Edgar. Steele appears to have picked up a knock for City coming off to be assessed.

GOAL! City with a strong start to the 2nd half get themselves back on level terms with a top quality finish from Hubbard from all of 30 yards out. Gardiner forwards to Stephenson on the left comes inside playing the pass into Hubbard central, sees the opportunity making great contact with the ball sending it up towards goal Webb back on her line can’t get a touch as it dips under the bar to make it 1-1.

Eva Hubbard striking the ball to make it 1 all for Cambridge City (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City celebrate their equaliser (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Steele has come off replaced by Ellen Marson. City full of confidence now pressing the ball winning a free-kick on the left as Stephenson is bundled over. 30 yards out Hubbard to flight it in towards the top of the area Richards stretching for it can’t get enough of a touch to knock it past the defence United clear. United with a double change on the right bringing off Seymour and Marden for Abi Davies and Abbie Jackson. City too making another change bringing on Sarah Payne for Gardiner.

City winning a corner on the left players up as the ball is flung in across the six yard box, Webb up well amongst the crowd to glove the ball away to drop behind to the right for another corner. Put in near side Fitzpatrick attempting to knock it in towards the near post too many bodies to get through cleared.

Lauren Webb gloving the ball away

City looking energized now up for it as the crowd try to gee up United with a little over 15 minutes left to play. Richards gathering the ball right of Reed turning for goal 30 yards out clattered over winning the set-piece. Over it herself goes for goal the attempt straight at Webb held. United aren’t finding it as easy to get the balls into their attackers 2nd half with City more competitive in the middle Hubbard and Davies pressing the ball finding Stephenson out left Richards with support from Billing moving about to get onto the ball.

Abi Davies with Rebecca Stephenson (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Richards game done however as she comes off for Alexandra Pryke late in the game. Davies with a shot from distance off a eft side throw for City on target but straight at Webb. United making a change Kosky off at the back replaced by new signing Kaylen Gerkey. Naylor coming through the middle for United a powerful run riding a challenge driving threaded into the area for Wiltshire moving left on into the six yard box rapidly losing room for a shot gets an angled ball in low but taken by Hudson.

City finishing the game the stronger pressing the ball not giving United any time fighting to keep what they’ve got at the end Jackson cutting out Payne pass on for Billing outside the box.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  All over and the points are shared. A game of two halves literally. United the better side in the first half getting into City pushing on and spreading the ball about the park controlling the middle taking a deserved lead. City battled hard to keep them at bay not wanting to expose any gaps in behind conceding were encouraging signs towards the end of the first half. A few tweaks to positioning a a much improved 2nd half on the front foot competing for the ball in the middle while limiting United passes into their forwards a more even contest did feel another United goal might kill it off but it didn’t come and City found the equaliser through a wonderful finish from Eva Hubbard, giving them renewed energy and confidence might well have gone either way at the end after that. Will meet again this season in the upcoming Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final, City the current holders. United back in the competition after a year out where they went on to win the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Cup, on the basis to this evenings game a mouthing game awaits.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. No easy one this with several contenders putting themselves forwards. Carrie Bennett had an excellent game out on the left for United relishing a derby got herself about the park, putting in a number of tackles. Rachel Kosky too at the back with a several key challenges and interceptions, showing a good range of passing. Sarah Wiltshire’s movement causing City’s defence problems especially first half as she moved across the back line looking to create openings and receive the ball, took her goal well. For City, Fran Steele was strong at the back getting in to win the ball and clear threats. Haile Richards impressed up top working hard running into the channels and linking up play. Although Erin Davies was a frustrated figure in the first half the 2nd half adjustments saw her have more influence in the middle and won her fair share of the ball. Tonight’s award though goes to Cambridge City’s Eva Hubbard was a sublime finish to get City back on level terms. Working hard for the team both tracking back to defend and get forwards moving more central 2nd half to get amongst the midfield.

 Another enjoyable evening at The Abbey Stadium, my tanks to both teams for this assistance tonight and my thanks to Sean Doyle for using his pictures in the report. A great advert for football in Cambridge long my the rivalry continue. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 Sunday 8th January

FAWNL South East Division One

 Wishing you all a Happy New Year! A huge personal milestone to kick-off 2023 with this report being the 500th! Come along way from what was initially just a go at trying something new as I looked to continue my coverage of woman’s football following the folding of my WSL team Lincoln Ladies. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog eventually growing into Women’s Football East as I felt all of the teams across all leagues in the region deserved and needed more coverage. Hopefully have played a part in that and there’s plenty more games let to cover.

Today’s game comes from FAWNL South East Division One a trip to St Neots Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on newly promoted Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women.

Both sides with a comfortable firs half of the season placed in mid-table looking to push on up the table in 2023. The 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid getting ever stronger, but with the sad demise of Wymondham Town Ladies leaving the league a side down it highlights how fragile that growth remains and the hard work clubs have to do to play at this level.

Cambridge United WFC now a long established club at this level growing strong links now with their respective men’s side with 4 games to be played at The Abbey Stadium throughout this season. A stark assessment of the squad taking place at the end of last season seeing some players moving on Cambridge United have steadily been recruiting looking for the right players to build the side going forwards with Sarah Wiltshire the stellar sighing during the summer has weighed in with 15 goals so far top scorer from 11 appearances. Francesca Partridge another new addition to the attack scoring 6 to date. 

  Defender Abbie Jackson coming in from Ipswich Town Women before Christmas, Cambridge have continue to recruit building a large squad with Sydnie Naylor joining having had playing experience with Arsenal and Notts Forest. Another 2 new addition announced before today’s match too with defender Mayzee Seymour coming in from Harlow and Bella Simmons re-joining the club after spells away with Royston Town Women and rivals Cambridge City Ladies. 11 points from 8 played will be aiming to push into the top 5.

  Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women are newly promoted to the FAWNL for the first time in their history having won the London and South East Regional Premier Division like the ERWFL an extremely tough league to get out of. That said Ashford made it look easy last season winning all but 2 of their 20 league games and those ending in a draw. Have several familiar names in the side with experience at this level having played for Denham United Ladies, most notably Alissa Down who captains the side. Ashley Cheatley top scorer for the Middlesex side so far this season netting 13 goals from 12 appearances with Alissa Down on 7 from 12 played. Collecting 10 points from their opening 8 matches are well clear of the bottom two just a point behind today’s opponents and well placed to challenge for the top 5 themselves. The points shared between the sides when Cambridge United visited Ashford at the beginning of the season the game ending 3-3.

 St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s league encounter the grass pitch looking in great condition with a 4G pitch situated behind the main stadium. Viewing all round with covered terraces both ends and a seated stand housing the changing rooms and clubhouse beneath. The wind fairly blustery prior to kick-off dull and overcast a strong down pour coming minutes before kick-off retreated to the stands to take my notes, as it was the rain would stop the instant the players walked out onto the pitch taking the windy weather with it. The sun even poking through for a moment.

Cambridge United WFC  starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Rachel Kosky, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Sydnie Naylor, Ella Marden, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Alysha Stojko-Down, Francesca Partridge, Libby Fraser & Mayzee Seymour.

Cambridge United WFC

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women starting XI – Sophie Shults, Ellen Clarabut, Jade Johnson, Hannah Duncan, Laura Huse, Aimee Durn, Alissa Down (C), Kayleigh Currivan, Millie Constantine, Elizabeth O’Callaghan & Ashley Cheatley. Subs – Eman Kassem & Ellie Luscombe.

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  Bella Simmons is in the starting line-up for Cambridge today with the other new signing Mayzee Seymour on the bench, Abbi Griffin a late change to the starting line-up coming in for Carrie Bennett at left back. Ashford travelling up from Middlesex with 5 players unavailable naming just the 2 on their bench. Having left the pitch after the warm-up to some pretty unsavoury weather the players return to bright sunshine prompting a change of ends with Ashford switching ends to put the sun in Cambridge’s faces in the first half (not that it was going to last long) Cambridge to get the game underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Ashford also known as The Tangerines in their away kit to day a very nice looking all purple affair. 

 The ball played back to the defend, Ashford rush forwards to close down pressure the ball centre backs Rachel Kosky and Abbie Jackson manoeuvring the ball out for Cambridge into midfielder Sammy Edgar who sends it long to the right for Ella Marden, Ellen Clarabut heading it away for Ashford. The visitors bring the ball on up their left the diagonal ball into the box intercepted by Cambridge’s Jackson cleared away to the right. The recent rain making the pitch slick the ball skipping on players sliding in. Ashford presenting a solid back line with the midfield close not allowing Cambridge any space to exploit through the middle.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Abbie Jackson

   Cambridge look to get the ball out wide Abi Davies passing it on for Marden on the right wing presses forwards breaking into the area holding off her challenger closing in on the near post pulls the trigger, Ashford goalkeeper Sophie Shults down smartly to save push the ball wide across her six yard box, Bella Simmons retrieving the ball beyond the far post turns back inside see’s her shot blocked by centre back Laura Huse the rebound straight to Sarah Wiltshire her first time shot similarly blocked by Hannah Duncan. 

  Coming on with the ball through the middle Ashford captain Alissa Down opens up her body attempting to thread the ball through to Ashley Cheatley in attack, Jackson with a timely interception for Cambridge. Ashford sitting back a little allowing Cambridge time on the ball at the back a clever pass from Davies brought down well by Wiltshire in attack  she flicks it over the top on the right for Marden to attack can’t quite get to it before the ball runs out of play. 

Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

  Marden with a strike from 25 yards out coming in from the right wing fired straight at the Ashford keeper. Shults untroubled. Sydnie Naylor looking sharp on the ball in the middle for Cambridge moving left to combine with Simmons, the forwards pass, cut out for Ashford’s Huse. The defender hurt is down needing treatment after assessment is allowed back on. Cambridge applying some pressure now as Naylor comes on with the ball well plays it on for Wiltshire 20 yards out left of the D is forced out wide the keeper initially coming towards her back peddling as Wiltshire wriggles free of her marker to play the ball back across the top of the box for Naylor positioned inside her strike rising Shults is back in position to catch it cleanly.

Cambridge’s Sydnie Naylor up against Ashford captain Alissa Down

  No advantage for Ashford as referee Richard Fullicks brings play back for the set-piece a free kick some 35 yards out, Down on the ball plays a teasing ball in across the far post, no one there to attack it. Cambridge get caught on possession as they play it between themselves at the back Kayleigh Currivan stealing it then threading a pass into Millie Constantine pulling away right of the D to shoot, Lauren Webb shuffling across her goal though has it covered seeing it safely wide of her right post.

   Jackson finds Simmons out wide on the left on half way, turns pulling neatly away from her marker on the ball to run in behind and send the low pass into Wiltshire central, carries the ball wide left into the area before cutting back inside to scoop a lobbed shot up over the keeper, the ball landing on the roof of the net. Ashford are a little slow to close Cambridge down as the defenders look to get the ball into the midfield with Edgar, Naylor and captain Gisela Otten attempting to speed things up get the ball into Wiltshire to run at the visitors defence. 

Cambridge’s Bella Simmons

  A late flag see’s Simmons waved offside, as Wiltshire lifts the ball in to the middle from the right wing, Shults rushing out to save bravely at her feet unaware of the raised flag. The goalkeeper down for a moment able to play on. Jade Johnson bringing the ball on for Ashford on the right passing it forwards for Constantine the ball cut out by Griffin for Cambridge. Constantine getting involved in the action in a central position with a clever turn on the ball 25 yards out looking to find Elizabeth O’Callaghan in the box as she breaks inside from the left, Kosky with a fine headed clearance for the hosts.

Ashford’s Millie Constantine

   The game settling down Ashford’s attackers looking to press Cambridge’s defenders as they linger on the ball at the back now force an error win a free-kick just outside the box to the left of the D. Down is something of a dead ball specialist over the free-kick a packed penalty box ahead of her strikes the ball well low and hard through bodies Webb would have seen it late but close to her adjusts quickly to get down to make the save with 20 minutes gone.

Down’s free-kick saved by Lauren Webb

  GOAL! Having had a free-kick moments before Cambridge have players up as they get the ball out to Simmons on the left inside the area has support with Wiltshire plays the ball back into her the Cambridge number 7 taking the ball across the top of the area looking for an opening, well tracked instead sees Otten free to attack the ball central lays it into her path, Cambridge’s captain running in to strike the ball 20 yards out rising with a bit of swerve Shults may well have got the faintest of touches as she throws herself up at it the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the crossbar, players rushing for it, Naylor first to arrive smashing the ball into the back of the net to score 1-0.

Sydnie Naylor opens the scoring for Cambridge

  Ashford looking for a quick response from the restart as Cheatley gets on the move with the ball through the middle attempting to release Constantine into the box from the right side the pass a little to heavy Webb able to claim. Ashford battling for possession in the middle Aimee Durn breaking clear 25 yards out, Jackson reading her intent rushing out to charge her strike down the ball deflected up into the air over Jackson into the box, scrambled away at the far post for a corner kick. Down to take an inswinging delivery to the far post Duncan under it sends her header up over the crossbar. 

Ashford defender, Hannah Duncan

 

  The Cambridge goal livening Ashford up as they look to better compete for the ball Naylor escaping with it to the left for Cambridge sends it on for Wiltshire pulling into the channel turning inside with the ball pulling the trigger from 20 out can only pick out Shults in the Ashford goal. More good footwork from Constantine as she comes away with the ball in the middle support from Durn the ball lifted into the box as Cheatley bursts forwards can’t quite take it before it runs out of play. Marden moving inside from the right feeding the ball across the area 20 yards out for Wiltshire her effort sliced runs narrowly wide of the far post. 

  Ashford win a corner on the left players coming up from the back with 15 minutes left in the first period, Down with another inswinging delivery beyond the far post turned back across goal inside the six yard box attacked, Kosky throwing her body up to block the ball deflected away for another corner.

 GOAL! Ashford have looked a threat from set-pieces and from the 2nd corner they score another potent delivery from Down this time her inswinging ball in low at the near post wrong foots Webb, the Cambridge goalkeeper unable to adjust as she struggles to keep it from crossing the line, Ashford equalise the players rushing to Down to celebrate 1-1.

Alissa Down with Bella Simmons

  Cheatley with a strike from outside the box for Ashford left of the D swerves wide of the far post. Durn seeing the ball into her feet central goes on for Ashford not closed down pulls the trigger her strike from distance racing wide of the far post. The visitors on the front foot in the latter stages of the 1st half. Getting a little ragged in the middle a few late challenges coming in. Otten with the ball for Cambridge into Naylor going forwards with Wiltshire plays it out to Simmons wide left into the area attempts to get a shot away off the outside of her right boot, the ball cut out by the back tracking Huse behind for a corner kick. 

Ashford attacker, Ashley Cheatley

 Ashford with plenty back for the corner clear as the ball is played in to the top of the area. Edgar with a great times pass forwards for Cambridge to Wiltshire in attack carrying it forwards Huse gets on her shoulder to defend see the ball back to her keeper. Johnson needed in defence too to deal with the threat of Wiltshire as the Cambridge striker evades a tackle on the top of the area comes left. 

 Ashford with a free-kick wide on the right as Otten pulls down Cheatley. Down to play it in a dangerous cross in through the six yard box, met by Huse at the far post headed home however it won’t count as the offside flag is raised against her a close call. Another free-kick for Ashford this one 30 yards out to the left, Down goes for it this time her shot rising over the bar. Into stoppage time Cambridge on the attack the ball into Wiltshire 20 out finds Simmons wide left to the by-line cuts it back up to Edgar to play across the area into Marden right corner, Down back to put in the tackle before she can get a shot away.

Ashford midfielder, Aimee Durn

  Edgar with a crisp pass into Wiltshire racing forwards in attack her touch sending the ball out to the left, tempting Shults to come for it, Wiltshire winning the race however, the goalkeeper caught out of position as players rush back to defend the goal the angle against Wiltshire shifts it between her feet to create a better one, not much to aim at Shults back to cover her near post Wiltshire looks to place it no power the goalkeeper can claim it.   

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 An intriguing first half, a bright start from Cambridge allowed the ball, a cautious start from Ashford allowing their opponents to come on kept a solid shape  slow to close Cambridge breaking the dead lock in the 20th minute taking the lead woke Ashford up as they looked strong in reply getting set-pieces to trouble the hosts finding the equaliser from one. Both creating other opportunities Cambridge closest to getting a 2nd level at the break set up perfectly for the 2nd half.

  The weather remains settled the suns brief appearance over the clouds returning. Ashford to get the 2nd half underway neither side with a change. Down with the ball her pass forwards into Cheatley is tackled by Edgar. Ashford get the ball into Cheatley as she breaks into the box on the right, Jackson defending the ball off Cheatley for a goalkick. 

  Marden with the ball at her feet on the right for Cambridge turns infield 25 out lifts a diagonal ball into the area is over Wiltshire falls to Simmons breaking in behind at the far post the flag up denying her a shot. Durn is brought down 25 yards out giving the visitors another free-kick to the right of the D. Down’s shot striking the Cambridge wall deflected up and behind for a corner on the left. The delivery swung in across goal, Jackson up decisively at the far post to head the ball clear for Cambridge. 

Abbie Jackson heading clear for Cambridge

  Ashford making a lively start to the 2nd half a more open game. Naylor controlling the ball well moves wide picking out Simmons on the left flank can’t find Wiltshire with her lay off. Naylor with a good win taking the ball high on the right forwards for Wiltshire wide of the area the angle acute can only send her shot across the face of goal. Ashford with a throw on the right Cambridge looking to defend it, won by Otten her well struck clearance catching teammate Davies on the side of the head knocking her to the ground. Play stopped, Davies needing a few moments to get her bearing is made of tough stuff however and able to play on.

Gisela Otten about to knock out her own teammate

  Both sides looking to get the ball moving faster in the final 3rd Wiltshire moving about the defence coming right has Simmons over on that side with her as she sends the ball on Simmons in a race to the box with Duncan the central defender doing enough to get a touch on the ball take it away from the attacker allowing her keeper to claim. Wiltshire does well to spin off the defence break into the area left of the D, swings her foot through the ball looks certain to score, not sure if Shults got a touch on the ball as she throws herself down, the ball runs wide however and a goal kick is given. 

 Cambridge turning the screw as they look to retake the lead the Ashford defence starting to tire. Cheatley in attack however retaining a good turn of pace breaking towards the box forcing a block from both Jackson and Kosky before the ball is cleared to safety. Naylor into Simmons left plays in on for Wiltshire a fraction ahead of the defence, shoots from the left of the D her effort brushing the side netting. Cambridge making the first change of the game bringing off Naylor in midfield, replacing her with Alysha Stojko-Down.

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

Stojko-Down straight into the action with a diagonal ball for Marden to chest down bringing her inside 20 yards out then strikes the ball on the volley goalwards attempting to chip the keeper a fine attempt but an equally good pluck down from Shults. Marden with the ball out on the right squaring it into the six yard box for Wiltshire won’t sit for the attacker as both Huse and Duncan get a blocking tackle in to deny a clear shot. Shults down needing treatment in the Ashford goal, the bench calling the rest of the players over for instruction with 20 minutes left to play.

Ashford defender, Laura Huse

  Both full backs are tiring for Ashford, Johnson stretching to make the challenge, does well to deflect the ball off Simmons for a goalkick as she attempts to break on the left. Cambridge with the momentum getting the ball into her attackers, Currivan with Down winning it back on for Constantine up with Durn and O’Callaghan on the right the shot struck from outside the box over. The visitors regrouping to battle for possession higher up the pitch Down out to Johnson on the right Down breaking forwards right of the area Johnson picking her out with the pass cuts back inside to shoot, her strike knocking another Cambridge defender to the ground, but again up and okay.

Ashford’s Jade Johnson

  Marden has picked up an injury for Cambridge needs to come off Francesca Partridge on to join the Cambridge attack. Cambridge win a free-kick out wide on the right inside the Ashford half an opportunity for players to come forwards from the back Wiltshire to play it in superb flighted towards the far post Kosky bursting from the pack up to head it, a glancing header sent wide wouldn’t have known it but her fellow centre back Jackson beyond would have had the better chance. 

 

  Another chance for Cambridge moments later as the hosts feed the ball through the middle into Simmons in attack going forwards rides a challenge to get into the area before pulling the trigger Shults down smartly making an excellent save to turn the ball wide of her left post for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Cambridge with plenty up for the corner looking to press the advantage, the ball fired into the area Ashford get it clear out to Cheatley holding position halfway left side sees the ball into her feet and turns the counter is on as she races forwards Cambridge’s defenders frantically racing back as Cheatley turns inside getting past one inside to send the ball out to O’Callaghan right in the clear, Webb makes the call to come out to the top of her area and try and close the attacker down can’t get down in time as O’Callaghan slots the ball under her to send it through into the open goal beyond 1-2.

Elizabeth O’Callaghan firing Ashford into the lead

  15 minutes left to play and Ashford having been under some pressure from Cambridge find themselves in front with a superb break from a corner. Cambridge get after the ball from the restart looking for a quick reply, Wiltshire winning a corner on the right. Played into the area headed out to the left retrieved by Simmons her strike back in blocked at the near post. Simmons over on the right now sending the pass inside for Wiltshire 25 yards out moves across the area looking to curl a left for shot into the top corner sails wide of the post. 

  Huse with an interception at the back for Ashford as Davies attempts to play a diagonal pass into Partridge. Simmons inside form the right with the turn on the ball top of the box to clip a cross into Wiltshire attacking the six yard box the flag raised even before Wiltshire buries her header into the back of the net, no goal. Davies breaking up the pitch on the right for Cambridge sending a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Johnson rising at the far post to head clear for Ashford. Duncan in to close Wiltshire down as she attempts to get onto a Davies pass. 

Ashford with their first change late in the game Constantine comes off with Ellie Luscombe coming on. A much needed injection of pace Luscombe after the ball inside to Durn tackled by Otten into Stojko-Down on for Simmons right her cross cut out by Huse inside the six yard box. Cheatley alert to any chance Ashford have to counter, finding the ball at her feet 30 yards out moves inside before shooting putting the ball straight at Webb.

 Simmons winning Cambridge a late corner on the right before it’s taken a change for Ashford, Clarabut struggling needs to come off on comes Eman Kassem. The corner into the mix the header powers over the crossbar. Ashford working hard to defend their own goal alert whenever a counter in on to relieve the pressure breaking forwards Down into Cheatley across the top of the area her shot drilled wide. Davies coming off for Cambridge with Seymour on for her debut at right back. Down shown a yellow card for Ashford late in the game.

A free-kick to Cambridge left side flighted into the near post area, Shults up amongst bodies getting her fist n the ball knocked down the keeper is grounded as Cambridge attempt to get a shot in along the ground Shults able to snatch it into her midriff. 

 Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  A battling performance from Ashford sees them come away with the 3 points and their first win of 2023. The result seeing Ashford climb 3 places to move up to 5th in the FAWNL South East Division One table. Level at the break Cambridge looked to be turning the screw 2nd half getting forwards well creating chances coming close to taking the lead themselves before being hit with a sucker punch a break form their own corner, taken well by Ashford to take the lead themselves with 15 minutes left to play. On another day might well have been 2-1 the other way but that’s football you take your chances Ashford working hard throughout had to dig in as a team at times and their defence was superb. Cambridge will be disappointed had the chances to win the game themselves just weren’t taken on the day.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of 2023. It’s not often they’re easy and today is not exception some fine performances all round. Firstly for Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire did everything she could to get a goal with some great runs and movement on and off the ball. Bella Simmons was impressive on her return to Cambridge United lively on the flank looking to combine with Wiltshire create chances. So too Sydnie Naylor in midfield good control and movement throughout. Ashford with a hard working team performance had to dig in at the back at times. Alissa Down dangerous on the ball be it in play or dead. Sophie Shults strong in goal with a couple of crucial saves, the centre backs superb too. Hannah Duncan with several strong challenges and well timed interceptions is just edged out by fellow defender, Laura Huse, again work hard throughout tacking and winning the ball when called upon.

 That’s it then the 500th match report written and as exciting as the first. Been doing it for a while now and it’s knowing that every game is different that makes it so special after all I only write the words it’s the players who make the content. 500 down and plenty more to come still lots of teams I want to see in action. Another enjoyable game good to get the new year started my thanks to both teams for their help today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Sunday 6th November

FAWNL Plate 

 Beginning November with a trip to St Neots Town FC to watch Cambridgeshire rivals, Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Ladies as they meet in the 1st Round of this season’s FAWNL League Plate competition.

With both sides making an early exit from this season’s FA Women’s Cup the FAWNL Plate competition represents another great opportunity for a cup run. A Determining Round played between all the sides in the 6 FAWNL Divisions with the winners going on to contest the League Cup the rest entering the League Plate Competition. Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Ladies drawn together in the 1st Round. Both playing in FAWNL South East Division One brings another Cambridgeshire derby match to contest.

  Cambridge United WFC win the upper hand so far in the derbies this season with a 2-0 away to City back in August bringing them their 1st 3 point haul of the season with new signing Sarah Wiltshire netting both goals. Currently 6th in the South East Division One table. The new season beginning with the women’s side forming closer ties with Cambridge United FC a women’s board created along with a stronger youth pathway to develop players for the 1st team. The squad with a few new faces this season, with Francesca Partridge (sponsored by Women’s Football East) coming in along side Sarah Wiltshire has 3 goals so far this season with Wiltshire on 5. Midfielder Sammy Edgar also joining from Royston Town Women with a few stepping up from the Development squad. Defender Abbie Jackson the most recent signing joining from Ipswich Town Women.

  Cambridge City Ladies already have a strong youth set-up, very much the foundations on which the club was built the women’s side rising rapidly through the women’s football pyramid to eventually join United in the 4th tier. That status under threat towards the end of last season but a strong performance and win at St Neots against United going a long way to securing their status in the FAWNL for a 4th successive season. The management team seeing an overhaul over the summer with Rob Coles coming in as manager with 1st team coach Darren Fairbrass. A few players moving on have once again been able to bring players up through the pathway also running a Reserves and Development side. Have struggled to get points on the board this season, with just the one league win that coming way back on the opening day at home to QPR. A late goal seeing them exit the FA Women’s Cup last Sunday. Grace Stanley always prolific in front of goal leading the goal scoring charts with 6 to her name.

  That cup game seeing this tie delayed by a week, originally scheduled to be played at The Abbey Stadium the tie reverting back to Cambridge United WFC’s regular home at St Neots Town FC. The Premier Plus Stadium situated in an ever growing housing development leading into St Neots. Really wasn’t sure if the game was going to be on at all heavy rain sweeping up from the South hitting the East overnight seeing a good portion of games called off and leaving Norfolk in heavy rain that brought traffic to a standstill on the A14 was not optimistic, however reaching Cambridge itself the rain clear and blue sky could be seen in the direction I was heading. St Neots not seeing as much rainfall the grass pitch looking immaculate. Rain likely before kick-off. Viewing around with covered terracing behind each goal and a covered mainstand. The bar open serving hot a cold drink. Serving a hot chocolate with whipped cream and marsh mellows that was proving very popular.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Alysha Stojko-Down, Ella Marden, Francesca Partridge & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Abbi Griffin, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Grace Waygood, Albany Hodgson & Libby Fraser.

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Ellen Marson, Jess Fitzpatrick, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Ellie Cullum, Fran Steele, Paige Gardiner, Becca Stephenson, Bella Simmons & Grace Stanley. Subs – Karly Tolentino, Lauren Tomlinson & Shannon Shaw.

  With the rain beginning to fall I took the decision to abandon my usual viewing area by the dugouts and retreat into the stands, which is sometimes a gamble in itself at St Neots as the rain can blow in anyway. Thankfully not this time, the teams coming out on to the pitch. United wearing amber coloured shirts with black short and socks with City wearing white shirts and black shorts with black and white hooped socks. It’s the visitors to get the cup tie underway City kicking off the 1st half the ball played out to right back Ellen Marson lifted back into the middle won by United centre back Lauren Rouse the ball lifted out to Francesca Partridge on the left of attack, Marson in to win the ball.

Cambridge City Ladies, Ellen Marson

  GOAL! United with the ball at the back Rouse on for Abi Davies coming on right side plays the ball central, the pass forwards then clipped on through the middle dropping between City’s centre backs 20 yards out, Sarah Wiltshire nipping in beating the offside trap to latch onto the ball and takes on the early shot catching to ball perfect to send on arrowing over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0. 

Sarah Wiltshire with the early goal for Cambridge United WFC

 The perfect start for the hosts opening the scoring inside the opening couple of minutes. The ball being closed down in the middle United’s midfielders, Alysha Stojko-Down, Sammy Edgar and captain Gisela Otten all pressing. Stojko-Down advancing with Ella Marden on the right exchanging passes Stojko-Down playing it back to Otten who sends it on for Marden bursting on down the flank turning inside 25 yards out her diagonal ball fire towards the City box cut out by centre back Bronwyn Mulheron.

Cambridge United WFC’s Ella Marden

  Fran Steele on the ball for City central forwards into attacker Grace Stanley she lifts the ball out to the right into the path of Becca Stephenson racing on, sees her side win a corner kick. Played long goes over everyone inside the six yard box no one at the far post as United clear. United lively looking to get the ball into Wiltshire ready to pull off the City defence get in behind one pass seeing her almost through, City captain and goalkeeper Sarah Hudson rapidly off her line to slide in get her gloves in the ball a fraction ahead of the United attacker. 

Becca Stephenson on the ball for Cambridge City Ladies

  Marson with the ball on the right for City sends the pass long up the line for Stephenson to chase the winger latching onto it getting down the line before smashing a shot in towards goal. United goalkeeper, Lauren Webb with a smart save getting down to block the ball with her body, isn’t cleared though deflected past her running towards goal, Abbie Jackson racing back to clear the ball off the line. United get away on the right Ella Marden taking the ball on checks inside before trying her luck from distance her effort looping over. 

Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  City hold their line well to catch Wilshire offside as the ball is won back in the middle. Steele looks to find Stephenson on the right with a diagonal pass, intercepted by United full back Carrie Bennett. The rain beginning to fall heavily now with 15 minutes on the clock. Stephenson looking a threat on the right for City as they come forwards winning a free-kick 30 yards out. The ball struck in low cleared by United’s defence. Some committed tackles in the middle, Ellie Cullum feeling the full force of one for City. 

United’s Abi Davies with City’s Bella Simmons

 Wiltshire bringing the ball on through the middle for United sends it out to Partridge on the left continuing her run forwards into the box. Partridge holding it up as Stojko-Down advances the pass inside the midfielder playing it into Wiltshire heavily marked looked to lay it back to Stojko-Down, Cullum challenging to win the ball back for the visitors. Steele with the ball in the middle out to Stephenson on the right attacking fires a cross along the top of the United area looking for Stanley, Rouse sticking out a leg to cut the ball out clear for United. 

  United coming on well with the ball Otten from the back on for Wiltshire who releases Marden on the right to take the ball on before delivering a long diagonal cross into the box aiming for Partridge getting in at the far post rising can’t quite get her head to the ball as it runs out of play. 

  GOAL! Edgar winning the ball for United coming on left side playing it on for Wilshire pulling wide tracking inside top of the area curls in a cross to the far post looking for Partridge, Amy Reed getting to it first for City her clearance to the top of the area dropping straight to Wiltshire her run taking her into the area she hits it 1st time sending a looping shot over the keeper into the top corner to double United’s lead 2-0.

A 2nd superb strike from Sarah Wiltshire

  Midway through the 2nd half United with a 2 goal lead coming on well, Partridge on the left winning a corner. The delivery in near side turned behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd corner a dangerous in swinger evading everyone at the near post is headed clear off the line not sure the defender knew too much about it but a great reaction nonetheless. Bella Simmons wriggling clear with the ball on the left into the corner sending a cross into the six yard box comfortably claimed by Webb.

   Mulheron sliding in to win the ball against Edgar as she looks to link up with Wiltshire in attack. City on the counter attack the ball played low through to Stanley pulling away right of the D looking to turn and shoot, Webb alert rushing out to close the angle making the blocking save batting the away to her right before being cleared for a corner kick. 

  An intriguing tie United with the better chances seeing more of the ball, City though with glimpses that they can pull a goal back. Marden attacking on the right with the ball for United, putting it back inside for Otten as she gets up in support opens up her body to lay the pass forwards aiming for Wiltshire inside the box, cut out well be Mulheron turned out to the left Edgar running onto the ball 25 yards out sends her strike over.

Cambridge United WFC midfielder, Sammy Edgar

  The rain beginning to ease up, as City bring the ball on Gardiner on for Stanley, Jackson intercepting for United. Gardiner coming left on for Simmons is held up by Davies with Marden getting bac to help City forced to play the ball all the way back to their defence. Stephenson the most likely outlet for City with some strong running on the right flank played in her cross into the box over Simmons who has come into a central position. Stephenson in again moment later as City hit United with a rapid counter attack on the angle sends her shot into the side netting. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Paige Gardiner

  Simmons turning on the ball left side finds Stanley coming into the left channel, Jackson going with her the defence pushing the striker wide Stanley nevertheless getting a shot away dragged behind. United over commit in attack as the game suddenly opens up Steele getting the ball out to Simmons on the left drives inside towards the box, Rouse standing her up charging down the ball. Stephenson bringing City a corner out on the right. An in swinger into the near post Webb up amongst the crowd to get her fists to the ball beat it down and away. 

  Wiltshire carrying the ball on shifting it to Partridge 25 yards out on the left, Reed into her can’t get the ball around the defender. Otten with a good challenge lays the ball on for Wiltshire who releases a strike from distance, on target held comfortably by Hudson. City breaking with pace the ball long for Stephenson right her cross into the ox running out to Simmons closing in left Webb running across wanting to see it run out of play taking no chances drops down to get her gloves firmly around the ball. The clock running down the skies decidedly gloomy several people are retreating to the bar to get their hands on a hot chocolate with whipped cream and marsh mellows.

  The 1st half moving into stoppage time Wiltshire is brought down by Gardiner some 30 plus yards out centrally. Wiltshire herself over the set-piece the shot taken on. Hudson behind it all the way. United ending the half strong with Partridge bringing the ball on left side, has Wiltshire ahead of her sends the pass on Wiltshire in the corner turning into the box to fire a cross into Marden at the far post inside the six yard box locked in a tussle with the defence as they scramble to hit the ball caught between feet skips up for Otten I think getting u in support to smash a shot goalwards, Hudson throwing herself  down t make the blocking save at close range the deflected ball coming back to Stojko-Down ten yards out to strike rising her shot cannons down off the cross bar!

Alysha Stojko-Down

  A late free-kick for United 25 yards out to the right of the D, Wiltshire curling a shot wide. City with a free kick of their own in the dying seconds top of the centre circle. Steele nevertheless taking on the shot hit well but over.

  Half-time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  United going into the break leading the tie 2-0. Sarah Wiltshire with an early opportunity put through on goal shooting early to send the ball past the keeper. Wiltshire then doubling the lead midway through the 1st half curling a great shot into the top corner. United with by far the better chances almost getting at 3rd at the end of the half Stojko-Down hitting the bar. The hosts strong in the middle pressing the ball well getting forwards. City with their chances however, getting into good positions Webb making a couple of crucial stops to ensure the hosts goal remains intact. 2-0 the lead more often than not the next goal proves crucial City far from out of it will want to have more of the ball in the final 3rd 2nd half while limited United’s chances at the other end.

  With the rain having passed and the forecast predicting none for a bit retreated from the stands to move back to my usual vantage point over on the far side of the pitch, especially with the Sun making an appearance now low in the sky straight into the stand, at my back now may well pose a few issues for United now defending that end of the pitch. City making a change at the start of the 2nd half Karly Tolentino coming on in attack replacing Ellie Cullum. United to get the 2nd half underway the ball out to the left City pressing quick to regain possession fired into Tolentino pulling away right of the D, Jackson nipping in to clear for United.

  City pressing players up in attack at the start of the 2nd half look to have 4 up as they move in to close the ball down, crossed in from the right into Simmons can’t dig the ball out of her feet before being closed down. United clear the ball forwards to Marden breaking away on the right taking the ball on lays the cross back into the top of the area for Wiltshire, Mulheron moving in to close her down, Wiltshire drags her shot wide of the left post. 

Cambridge City defender, Bronwyn Mulheron

  City looking to take the game to United early on find an early goal at the start of the 2nd half the ball fed through into Tolentino right of the D clear to shoot, Webb rushes out to the top of her area getting down sharply throwing out an arm to her right to glove Tolentino’s shot away to the left. Marden picking up a yellow card as she pulls Fitzpatrick’s shirt as the full back looks to get up the pitch with the ball. City putting United under a bit of pressure at the start of the 2nd half looking to get into them higher up the pitch. 

  Wiltshire with great movement throughout the 1st half coming deep for the ball is brought down on halfway. Stojko-Down coming on with the ball though the middle into Wiltshire coming inside with Partridge to curl a shot in from distance, Hudson throwing herself across her goal making a superb save to glove the ball away for a corner kick. The set-piece played in near side headed clear. Reed close in on Wiltshire preventing the attacker pulling off her with the ball. Stanley with a lay off for Gardiner to strike 20 yards out her effort blocked. 

Cambridge United WFC defender, Lauren Rouse

  City looking to build on their strong start to the 2nd half making a double change bringing off Gardiner and Simmons sending on Shannon Shaw and Lauren Tomlinson. Becca Stephenson moving into a central position. Tomlinson on the left is clipped as she looks to get the ball moving no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Tomlinson over it wide strikes a ball into the area goes through everyone catching Webb out as the keeper throws herself across her goal had the far post covered the ball bouncing wide. 

Lauren Tomlinson with United’s Ella Marden

Cambridge City Ladies Lauren Tomlinson

  Marden is onside on the right taking the ball down the wing turns inside towards the box running into Fitzpatrick the ball running on into the area, Wiltshire eased aside by Mulheron sent tumbling as the defender clears United appealing nothing doing. United make their first change of the game seeing a switch of personnel with Partridge coming off for Abbi Griffin who drops in at right back with Davies pushed on, Marden going out to the left. The ball played over the top for Wiltshire can’t bring the ball down into her stride as she enters the box.

 GOAL! United on the attack left side winning a corner, players coming up the delivery lifted in towards the near post Hudson up well amongst bodies to beat the ball away back out out t the left where it his picked up by corner taker Wiltshire, plays rush out of the box looking to close her down the shot flashed in low to the near post Hudson down sharply to save gloving the ball up across goal and straight into Otten who has remained up unopposed, the ball deflected off the United captain into the back of the net 3-0.

Captain Gisela Otten scores Cambridge United WFC’s 3rd goal

  20 minutes gone in the 2nd half United extending their lead City get on the attack win a free-kick out on the right wide players up into the box, the delivery put in near side, Stanley up with Mulheron the header turned goalwards coming at Webb quickly the United goalkeeper with another fine save flashing out an arm to deflect the ball away to the left a shot smashed back in coming back off the bar.

Cambridge United WFC’s Abbi Griffin

  The game opening up City committing players on exposing gaps on their flanks can’t be helped as they look for a goal, United looking to take advantage. Tomlinson battling for possession on the left Steele across in support, on for Stephenson, Rouse defending. Steele getting hold of the ball for City lifting a pass on for Shaw pulling into the right channel, just too much on the ball. Jackson winning the ball at the back for United bringing it on over halfway before being brought down. 

Cambridge United WFC defender, Abbie Jackson

  Davies advanced for United with the ball travelling into the area lacking support as Tomlinson gets back on her a good tussle between the pair Tomlinson seeing the ball away for a throw.  City attack right the cross inside Tolentino with the header on across to the left Stephenson onto the ball Griffin and Rouse defending for United. Steele hauls down Wiltshire 25 yards out in a central position the free-kick given United making a change before it is taken Davies coming off for Libby Fraser. Wiltshire on the set-piece goes for goal the ball bouncing harmlessly through to Hudson. 

Cambridge City Ladies midfielder Fran Steele

  A free-kick to City in the middle Steele short to Reed gets the return ball uses it well clipping a good diagonal ball into Stanley 25 yards out left of the D turns into the shot getting her foot over the ball to sent it in towards goal, Webb moving rapidly across her goal with another excellent save to get down to tip the ball wide for a corner. The game moving into the final 5 minutes of regular play. Rouse fouling Stephenson high up the pitch on the left, play brought back with no advantage for Tomlinson as she goes after the loose ball. Taken left of the centre circle lifted in towards the near post attacked by Mulheron, Her header on target, Webb throwing herself up making another great save to tip the ball over the crossbar. The resulting corner curled into the side netting.

Becca Stephenson

  The clock ticking down United make a triple switch bringing of Edgar, Otten and Rouse sending on Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Grace Waygood and Albany Hodgson all three defenders United aiming to keep the clean sheet intact. Steele lifting the ball on through the middle looking for Tolentino, Jackson cutting the pass out for United. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Libby Fraser

  GOAL! Into stoppage time United with the ball Hodgson on for Fraser to bring on right has Wiltshire out wide playing the ball to her Wiltshire sending it back inside to Fraser 30 plus yards out sees an opening pulls the trigger catches the ball well hit hard into towards goal looping up and over Hudson as she throws herself out to try and save it the ball finding the top corner for Fraser to open her season’s account with a superb strike at the death 4-0.

Libby Fraser celebrating after the final whistle

Full time Cambridge United WFC 4-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  Full time and it’s United celebrating scoring 4 goals and a clean sheet against their Cambridge rivals as they advance in the FAWNL League Plate. Making a superb start to the game with Wiltshire scoring a well taken early opener adding another superb strike midway through the 1st half. Further chances created closing the ball down well in midfield. City’s chances limited in the 1st half nevertheless forced Webb into making a couple of saves. A change for City at he start of the 2nd half as they looked to make a fast start pull a goal back applying some pressure making further changes were frustrated as United went on to add a 3rd midway through the 2nd half. The game opening up United lively throughout, City continued to be frustrated had chances were thwarted by Webb in the United goal with a number of quality saves before Libby Fraser put the icing on the cake with a superb strike for the hosts 4th goal late in stoppage time.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, tough in some regards but easy in others. Performances of note to mention firstly for Cambridge City. Becca Stephenson carried a real threat on the right in the first half a constant outlet with some strong running. Fran Steele working hard in midfield throughout battling for the ball with a great range of passing. Lauren Tomlinson adding some passion to the game coming on 2nd half. United with a solid all round team performance the centre backs reading the game well. The midfield strong Sammy Edgar, and Alysha Stojko-Down particularly captain Gisela Otten. Sarah Wiltshire up top leading the attack with great movement making herself available getting into great positions with two well taken goals. Today’s award though goes to Cambridge United goalkeeper Lauren Webb was a strong performance in front of goal, thwarting City on a number of occasions pulling off some excellent saves to ensure the clean sheet.

Another intriguing Cambridgeshire derby, a healthy rivalry between the sides played largely in good spirits glad it beat the weather Good to catch up with a few familiar faces today my thanks to both sides for the team details, always appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Weds 31st August

FAWNL South East Division One

No sooner has the match report been written up for the 1st of this weeks derby double from FAWNL South East Division One it’s onto my 2nd. Cambridgeshire this time with Cambridge City Ladies hosting rivals Cambridge United WFC.

  Often a hotly contested affair since Cambridge City Ladies achieved promotion to reach the FAWNL three season’s ago. The two clubs originally one with Cambridge United WFC starting as Cambridge Women breaking away from City. Cambridge City bouncing back strongly with a robust youth set-up to see their women’s side rise rapidly through the leagues to reach the 4th tier.

  Their 1st two season’s in FAWNL South East Division One affected by the Covid pandemic, Cambridge City looked comfortable in the league season, flirting with the danger of dropping into the relegation zone late on. Led to some managerial departures the club digging itself out of a hole to become safe a late season derby win against United going a long way to seeing them finished above their rivals in the table. A reshuffle within the club over the summer including the 1st team management team now fronted up by Rob Coles and Darren Fairbrass.

  A few players departing have retained a large chunk of their squad from last season and with a good back up of youth coming through to the women’s team have made half a dozen new signings bringing Becca Stephenson a former, Harlow and Billericay player. Ellen Marson joins from Peterborough United. Oliva White and Lexie Pryke formerly Ipswich youth players. Goalkeeper Ellie Sarter, from AFC Leyton a former Watford women youth player. Jenny Moore joining in the summer having previously been with QPR and Spurs. A great win on the opening day of the season at home to QPR Women. Grace Stanley the clubs top scorer last season getting her campaign off to a flying start netting a hat-trick with Bella Simmons also celebrating a goal in a 4-2 win. 

  Cambridge United WFC losing on the opening day of the season beginning at the Abbey Stadium with a 4-1 loss to early pacesetters, Norwich City Women, cheered on by a crowd of 648. The women’s side now enjoying closer ties with Cambridge United FC, a new women’s board established at the League One club with 4 games planned at the Abbey Stadium throughout the season. A disappointing run towards the end of last season putting a dampener on the season and has led to some player departures over the summer, development players coming through ready to challenge for places in the senior team.

  Cambridge United have brought in a few new signing over the summer and continue their search for players they feel will enhance the team. Sarah Wiltshire joining the club after a previous spell on loan, is vastly experienced having starred for Yeovil, Watford and Spurs in recent seasons carrying a huge threat in attack. Francesca Partridge also coming in the attacker with Northampton previously opening her account for the club with a stunning strike on the opening day. Sammy Edgar is a tough tackling midfielder joining from Royston Town Women and has a good range of passing in her artillery. Nikolett Szabo also joining the goalkeeper providing good back-up for Lauren Webb. Away to newly promoted Ashford Town Women at the weekend United found themselves trailing 3-1 before battling back to earn a 3-3 draw with Alysha Stojko-Down scoring a brace to open her season’s account. 

  Ely City FC’s Demcon Stadium the venue for this evening’s derby contest the football club surrounded by a number of other sporting facilities and a large restaurant and cinema complex built besides off the A10. Spent the past 2 and a half hours in the carpark typing out last evening’s report. In need of food and a portion off chips and a cup of tea was sorely needed. The bar open too, the large grass pitch offering viewing on all sides. The seated stand situated above the changing rooms. A familiar ground for United too having played here for a number of seasons themselves. Cambridge City Ladies temporary home as the await the completion of the new stadium at Sawston. Another dry evening a little chill starting to creep into the evening but otherwise pleasant. 

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Lauren Sander, Jess Fitzpatrick, Bronwyn Mulheron, Millie Struthers, Fran Steele, Erin Davies, Jenny Moore, Karly Tolentino, Bella Simmons & Grace Stanley Subs – Ellen Marson, Becca Stephenson, Charlotte Gillies, Hannah Bodily & Paige Gardener.

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Grace Waygood, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten, Sammy Edgar, Alysha Stojko-Down, Sarah Wiltshire, Ruth Fox & Francesca Partridge. Subs – Nikolett Szabo, Elsie Barker, Daisy McGregor, Albany Hodgson & Ella Marden.

United captain, Gisela Otten with City captain, Sarah Hudson

As is the norm for these derby games both sides are now City and United. Jenny Moore in the starting line-up for City with two more of their new signings Ellen Marson and Becca Stephenson on the bench. United’s new signings, Sarah Wiltshire, Francesca Partridge and Sammy Edgar all starting with Szabo on the bench. It’s City to kick-off the 1st half with the floodlights starting to take effect wearing white shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite in their away kit of all sky blue. Played back to Erin Davies in midfield puts the ball out to left back Laure Sander, United rushing on to press the ball City get it out to the right side looking to put the ball on for Bella Simmons looking to get in behind, Abbi Griffin intercepting the pass at right back for United.

United with a fast start to the game getting after City in possession forced into rushed passes the ball given away put over the top for Sarah Wiltshire to chase, Millie Struthers at centre back defending for City the ball going for an early corner. Played in across the six yard box, Bronwyn Mulheron rising highest for City to head the ball on across the box out for a corner on the right. Another inviting delivery in across the six yard box Francesca Partridge getting up just under it, drops to Grace Waygood beyond the far post, the United defender firing her strike over.

  GOAL! United pressing the ball in the middle captain Gisela Otten to Sammy Edgar plays the pass forwards through the middle, a great ball dropping in front of the D to the right, a wicked back spin on the bounce wrong footing Sanders going with the run of Wiltshire the attacker reading it well to turn onto the ball knock it out to the left into the box before striking in a venomous shot on the angle across the keeper to score her 1st goal of the season for Cambridge 0-1.

Sarah Wiltshire with the opening goal for Cambridge United

  4 minutes played the perfect start for the away side in a derby match. United lively getting after City, something their opponents have often done to them. Davies creating a bit of room for herself in the middle for City looking to put Simmons through on the left wing again, Griffin cutting the pass out again. Alysha Stojko-Down looking to thread a pass through the middle for Partridge, Mulheron winning it back for City. The hosts looking to go right the pass sent on for Karly Tolentino on the wing cutting inside to shoot on the angle driven in near post, comes at Lauren Webb fast covering her near post gets down to make the blocking save before scrambling up to get her gloves on the loose ball.

  Simmons likewise on the left for City looking to find a way in behind is found by Fran Steeles through ball, Webb though getting across to take the ball before she can capitalise. United continue to press determined not to let City settle on the ball. Mulheron with a vital interception getting her foot up to bring the ball down as Edgar attempts to send Wiltshire attacking through the middle on goal. A free-kick awarded to United on the right 25 yards out, players up as Griffin sends an inviting ball into the area across goal, Partridge after it but the flag immediately goes up offside. 

United’s Ruth Fox with City’s Jenny Moore

  United’s Griffin sending the pass forwards for Partridge in the centre, Ruth Fox having drifted in from the right going with her the pair look to overwhelm, full back Jess Fitzpatrick as she squares up to both attackers doing well to get her foot in to knock the ball away across the top of the D, Stojko-Down having gotten into an advanced position latching onto the ball sending her strike wide from 25 yards out. 

Cambridge United’s Alysha Stojko-Down

  With United getting at City they visitors push up there defence at times finding little joy through the middle with United’s Waygood and Lauren Rouse winning the ball well City look to the flanks Simmons ready to go on the left is picked out Webb rushing out to the top of her box to try and intercept Simmons gets there first to take the ball past the keeper, down to the by-line cutting back to shoot the angle acute but on target looks to be creeping inside the near post but for a brilliant last ditch sliding tackle from left back Abi Davies lunging in to take it wide for a corner kick. 

Cambridge City’s Bella Simmons

  City are finding it difficult to break United up through the middle but Simmons and Tolentino are getting joy on the wings and look a threat. A throw won high on the left worked on into the box for Davies trying to get it down can’t make it count as United close in to defend. Webb alert to come and claim as United are caught high up the pitch with Simmons breaking in behind left. 20 minutes gone in the 1st half United with the brighter start, City getting to grips with their opponents game plan looking to adjust theirs winning a free-kick outside the box to the left despite strong protests from United. The ball in striking the wall cleared up to Partridge can’t dig it out of her feet get away before being tackled by Fitzpatrick. 

 Tolentino on the ball for City down in the right corner lifts a cross into the box for Grace Stanley to hit on the volley, Webb back on her line getting her gloves up to save bring the ball down safely. Jenny Moore on the left taking the ball on from a throw in playing it on for Stanley pulling into the left channel taking on the shot arrowing in, Rouse getting her head on the ball knocking it up into the air, Webb claiming it beyond her. 

  Mulheron is shown a yellow card as she cynically pulls down Partridge as the striker looks to get away from her to the right of the area. Partridge taking a blow as she went down needing treatment but is okay to continue. Wiltshire going for goal from the set-piece angled in goalkeeper and City captain, Sarah Hudson with a comfortable save. Wiltshire tracking back to harry the ball nicks it played into Stojko-Down who looks to release Partridge through the middle, caught a little flat footed Partridge can’t capitalise inside the D. 

Cambridge City midfielder, Erin Davies

  Another good opportunity for City as they get players forwards from midfield to overload the box as Tolentino out on the right draws players to her before sending a great cross into the six yard box Steele rising unchecked powers her header back across Webb’s goal, bounces wide of the post. Stojko-Down with a brilliant pass finding Wiltshire pulling in behind inside the City box right of goal comes back inside looking to put her shot over the keeper the ball landing on the roof of Hudson’s net. 

  Waygood blocking for United top of her area, the rebound loose in the middle struck goalwards, Webb back on her goal line right behind it. Webb then pulling off a fantastic save off a Tolentino strike as she gets hold of the ball on the right drills a shot in, Webb falling back to tip the ball wide behind for a corner. Put in from the left the ball defended at the near post. City beginning to find a little momentum towards the end of the 1st half. 

Cambridge United goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  United responding with Fox getting forwards on the right cutting the ball inside to Stojko-Down 20 yards out pivoting onto the shot blasting it goalwards takes a wicked deflection of the defender as the block is put in forcing Hudson into a smart save getting down to smother the ball on her goal line. Little time left in the 1st half United continuing to battle of possession, Otten, Edgar and Stojko-Down all after the ball the latter brought down by Davies going on the advantage played as Wiltshire gets hold of the loose ball pulling the trigger from 25 yards her shot straight at Hudson. Griffin getting forwards on the right with Fox playing a cross into the area Partridge going for the header can’t quite get there.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-1 Cambridge United WFC

  A fast start to the game from United getting after City to score an early goal. Sarah Wiltshire’s strike in the 4th minute the difference between the sides at half-time. Have looked to hustle City in possession all game. The home side finding little joy through the middle. Have looked dangerous on both flanks with Simmons and Tolentino looking to make something happen and have come close to equalising on a few ocassions, Webb making a couple of good saves to ensure United didn’t concede. 1-0 the score a narrow advantage City far from out of it.

 

No changes for either side at the break United to get the 2nd half underway. Otten putting the ball on for Stojko-Down getting up with Wiltshire on the left getting a throw, looking to work an opening outside the box, Steele into block the ball, deflected on to the keeper. Moore going down as she release the ball looks in some discomfort as City get on the attack Stanley dispossessed by Davies. Moments later Stanley is caught marginally offside as the ball from Simmons is rolls into her left channel.

Cambridge United attacker, Francesca Partridge

Partridge coming over to the left side sees the ball into her feet before moving inside to lift a great pass on for Wiltshire racing on through the middle scissor kicks the dropping ball goalwards from outside the D, sending it narrowly over the bar. Not as intense a start to the 2nd half as the first both sides guilty of being a little sloppy on the ball. Edgar getting free in midfield with a great pass forwards for Stojko-Down who in turn finds Wiltshire pulling out right, Fox up with her, the shot on the angle claimed well by Hudson in the City goal.

Cambridge City’s Fran Steele

City making a change Moore the player coming off replaced by Paige Gardiner with 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half having pulled up a few minutes previously. Partridge clattered into as she looks to get the ball down inside the centre circle. Waygood across to block as City find Tolentino on the right. Certainly feel that United need to find another goal to settle thing’s down, Davies with a clever through ball for Stanley breaking into the area, Waygood doing well in defence pushing her wide giving Webb the opportunity to get out to lay claim to the ball.

Grace Waygood

Edgar down in pain as she collects some City studs on her ankle as she and Stojko-Down close down to prevent Gardiner breaking the long pass up to Stanley, Waygood up against her to win the ball. Edgar left hobbling is up and getting back into position to try and run it off. Having down it once in the 1st half City manage to overload the six yard box breaking forwards in numbers 3 players lining up in front of Webb’s goal as Tolentino manages to lift a cross in from the by-line met at the far post but turned wide. Davies in the middle looking to pick out Tolentino, Edgar tracking back on the wide player winning the ball for United.

Cambridge United’s Sammy Edgar

Pressing City win a corner on the left played into the box inadvertently knocked on to the far post comes down for Stanley who fires her volley wide. Wiltshire all over the place in the final 3rd for United chasing after the ball not letting City’s defence have a moments rest. Tolentino carrying City’s threat in attack looking a constant threat is fouled out wide a free-kick to the hosts. Fizzed in across the top of the box the shot struck racing through bodies low on goal, Griffin on the back post there to make the goal saving block.

Karly Tolentino

Partridge having been brought down on a couple of ocassions carrying a knock does well to hook the ball on for Wiltshire attack the pair exchanging passes with Otten getting forwards to offer support the midfielder brought down United with a free-kick 30 yards out. Wiltshire taking on the shot is a comfortable catch for Hudson. Partridge being substituted for United midway through the 2nd half with Ella Marden coming on.

GOAL! United get the 2nd goal they were looking for coming from a ball winning tackle from Waygood at the back, the visitors setting up a quick counter getting the ball up the pitch for Wiltshire running on right channel getting her head on the ball before it can be cleared taking it past the defence into the box wide of goal to smash her shot wide of the advancing keeper into the bottom corner 0-2.

Webb needing to come out to the top corner of her area to get hold of the ball as City look to release Tolentino on the right. Straight away United look to adjust things getting everyone behind the ball with Wiltshire now the lone attacker. City respond with a double change bringing on Becca Stephenson and Charlotte Gillies for Davies and Sanders. City winning a corner on the left the box packed the delivery cleared at the near post, Gardiner getting hold of the ball a rash tackle upending her 30 yards out. Stanley on the set-piece hits the United wall.

Wiltshire harries the defence her pressure allowing Fox to steal onto a loose pass run on towards the City box, Marden coming round on the left, Fox finding her in the box her left footed shot on the angle, Hudson down sharply on her goal line to save. Tolentino and Steele coming off for City with a little over 10 minutes left to play with Ellen Marson and Hannah Bodily coming on the hosts look for a way back into the game.

United working hard as a unit to keep City at bay, Wiltshire tireless up front. Fox on the right the crossed ball into Marden outside the D, a clever ball as she attempts to dink it over the defence into Wiltshire’s path as she break right of goal, just runs out of room to get hold of the ball before in runs out of play. City are finding thing’s frustrating United proving hard to expose as they get players behind the ball Rouse and Waygood having been coached by manager Darren Marjoram prior to the match about not letting anything go over them have won pretty much everything thrown at them.

Wiltshire taking the ball into the corner as the game moves into stoppage time has little support but is running down the clock. City looking to push up Marden getting up to help Wiltshire on the left as a high ball is played to her controlled on the by-line, Wiltshire slips inside to shoot the ball deflected wide for a corner. Keeping it in the corner, City wrestle the ball back attempt to break in number the ball lifted on Waygood winning the header, comes back to Marson in midfield launches a hopeful ball forwards into the box claimed by Webb.

Defender Albany Hodgson coming on to bolster the midfield in the dying minutes with Fox coming off. City going for it a corner won right side fired into the box, Gardiner slipping as she goes to strike the ball right of near post, Edgar cutting it out cleared to the right, Bodily getting hold of it cutting inside to blast her shot against the upright the rebound sent over!

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 0-2 Cambridge United WFC

  Late drama but no reply for Cambridge City as they are beaten 2-0 by Cambridge United who claim their first win of the season to climb to 4th in the fledgling South East Division One table. Making a fast start to the game getting after their opponents on the ball, getting early joy with Sarah Wiltshire striking in the 4th minute to put them in front. Sticking to their game plan giving nothing away through the middle City adapting getting some joy on the flanks with Simmons and particularly Tolentino on the right Lauren Webb making a couple of vital saves Abi Davies clearing one off the line. At 1-0 City were always in it and you felt United needed that 2nd goal, came midway through the 2nd half with Wiltshire’s movement causing City’s defence problems getting in behind to nab her brace. Everyone behind the ball after that battling for the clean sheet, the post coming to the rescue at the death.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several performances of note and a tough one to call in some regards easy in other. For City, Erin Davies produced some good passes to release both wide players. Bella Simmons looking to get behind on the left create opportunities and Karly Tolentino was brilliant on the right if City were going to score she was the most likely carving out some great chances. For United it was a dogged performance with a well worked game plan. City getting nothing through the middle with Lauren Rouse and Grace Waygood superb in defence. Sammy Edgar with some quality passes setting up Wiltshire for the opening goal. Alysha Stojko-Down providing a good link between midfield and attack winning her fair share of tackles. The award though goes to the scorer of both United goals Sarah Wiltshire. Both well took, her energy up front along with movement to hustle the defence on the ball a constant menace working hard on her own towards the end up front to ensure United got the 3 points.

  Another enjoyable evening at the Demcom Stadium for my 2nd derby of the week but boy am I tired now. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams. Now to decide where I’m going at the weekend the games coming thick and fast now. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

FAWNL South East Division One

Sunday 21st August

Great to be back for another season covering women’s football across the East of England and what a summer it has already been for the game in this country with our Lionesses becoming Champions of Europe! Winning the competition in style with record breaking attendances beating some of the best along the way. Sure everyone has been walking a little taller in training since  and can’t wait for the season to begin. Whatever the legacy from this tournament success might be it’s sure to lead to more coverage, more fans and girls inspired to take up the game, hopefully more funding and sponsorship too as people see the potential for the games growth going forwards.

England’s Lionesses, winning this summer’s UEFA Women’s European Championships

  Excited for the new season to begin the FAWNL and ERWFL competitions kicking off this Sunday. Beginning my season with a trip to the Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC play Norwich City Women in their opening fixture in FAWNL South East Division One. 

  The stalwarts of the league being the only two sides to consistently feature in the 4th tier since the FAWNL was created back in the 2014/15 season. With the formation of the Barclays WSL and the Championship the top 4 tiers of the woman’s pyramid are getting stronger and stronger with each passing season and the demands on clubs to remain competitive grow year on year. Clubs forming closer ties with their respective men’s sides has helped in that growth and today’s opponents have both recently seen their relationship with their men’s club strengthen.

  Cambridge United WFC having established a new women’s board with League One, Cambridge United FC, chaired by Jenny Horfield. This further strengthens the women’s side to the main club and it’s youth section growing as it becomes one of the FA’s new girls emerging talent centres. Intelligent Membranes coming in to sponsor the women’s team shirts the women’s side will benefit from closer ties and resources as it looks to push on up the pyramid.  Staging 4 matches at the Abbey Stadium this season.

  Darren Marjoram joining 1st team coach Ben Yeomans last season as manager, Cambridge United WFC made a solid start to the campaign into the top half and looking to press for a top 4 finish, a disappointing final 3rd to the campaign however saw the club take just one point from their last 7 games that ultimately saw them finish 8th just outside the drop zone. That led to some frank discussions within the club and several players moving on. Youth players ready to step up from the development squad with a few new faces joining. The head line signing being, Sarah Wiltshire, previously on loan at Cambridge United has had playing spells with Man City, Yeovil, Watford and Tottenham, bringing experience and goal scoring ability to the club. Also joining in attack Francesca Partridge previously with Northampton Town Women and midfielder Sammy Edgar who joins from last season’s ERWFL runners up, Royston Town Women.  Ruth Fox top scorer last season netting 14 goals.

  Likewise for Norwich City Women their day to day management is now in house with Championship side Norwich City FC as Norfolk’s leading football club looks to better support it’s women’s side. Bringing in ex-WSL player, Flo Allen as general manager. Thing’s are beginning to move in the right direction for the club after a number of difficult season’s struggling at the bottom of the FAWNL South East Division One table. Moving to The Nest on the northern outskirts of the city to play their home matches taking advantage of a state of the art facility.

 Norwich City Women looked dead and buried last season firmly inside the drop zone with 4 sides going down with 5 games to play. A heavy defeat to start the season against the eventual champions Billericay Town Women, Norwich struggled for points all through the campaign then came the turn around digging deep as a squad Norwich produced a sensational finish winning 4 of their final 5 games to haul themselves out of the bottom four to clinch 7th spot in the table. Have strengthened their squad over the summer bringing in 8 new faces, returning players, Rosie George, Alice Parker and goalkeeper Hope Armstrong. Midfielders, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell joining from fellow Norfolk side and last season’s ERWFL Champions, Wymondham Town Ladies. Defender, Ceri Flye is a strong addition at the back joining from Cambridge City Ladies, along with Naomi Cooper from Wroxham Women and forward Liv Cook from Waveney. 

The Abbey Stadium pitch

As mentioned the Abbey Stadium hosting 4 games for the women’s side this season as the club looks to promote the side. 3 league clashes with Norwich first up followed by local rivals Cambridge City and Actonians Ladies plus a cup match to be announced. The main stand open for the game with the bar area open beneath plus hot food being served. A good atmosphere building the home crowd getting behind the team with Norwich bringing several supporters. The grass pitch in perfect condition lush and green at the start of the season. The weather too  dry and bright, not as hot as in recent weekends favouring playing conditions.

Cambridge United WFC

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Ella Marden, Lauren Rouse, Grace Waygood, Gisella Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Alysha Stojko-Down, Ruth Fox, Sarah Wiltshire & Francesca Partridge. Subs – Abi Davies, Albany Hodgson, Niamh Day, Libby Fraser & Sunny McGregor.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Anna Larkins (C), Alice Parker, Ceri Flye, Chardonnay Johnston, Katie Knights, Rebecca Russell, Ellie Smith, Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling & Freya Symonds. Subs – Summer Ward, Kathryn Stanley, Naomi Cooper, Leilah Gooding & Olivia Cook.

Like to be closer to the action but headed up to the press box for this one to get a better view of the pitch. Sarah Wiltshire, Sammy Edgar and Francesca Partridge all making their competitive starts for Cambridge. Ceri Flye, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell in the starting XI for Norwich. Norwich to have the kick-off 1st half wearing their 3rd choice kit which I was wondering how to describe but the club has done it for me listed a xenon pink and blue shirt with xenon blue shorts and socks, xenon being obtained by the distillation of liquid air so I’d be inclined to shift towards pastel, still it looks pretty cool. Cambridge lined up opposite in their traditional amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball sent long out to Freya Symonds moving left Abbi Griffin defending at right back for Cambridge cleared up to Wiltshire in attack.

Abbi Griffin playing out from the back for Cambridge

Norwich quick to close down the early exchanges frantic the ball put on for Megan Todd out on the right off attack, Ellie Smith coming over to support the pair winning Norwich a series of throws as they look to gain ground on the flank. Cambridge regaining possession on the middle the ball lifted on for Wiltshire on the move left wing, helps it on for Partridge in attack, Norwich captain Anna Larkins close in defending the ball out for a throw. Smith likes to get hold of the ball from midfield and drive forwards with it, bursting forwards into the area left of the D holding off a defender closing in on the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb coming to meet her sliding in to claim the ball at her feet

Ellie Smith on the attack for Norwich

  Could do with some ball boys over on the far side of the pitch as the match ball disappears into the stand for a throw. From the resulting throw Norwich are awarded a free-kick on the left. Rebecca Russell over it for the visitors a good dead ball specialist during her time at Wymondham whips in an angled ball towards the far post goes through everyone out for a goal kick however play is brought back for a raised offside flag. Webb has to be alert inside her box with Norwich looking to close the ball down quickly inside the Cambridge half Alice Parker on the right sending it on for Freya Symonds stealing in between the centre backs, Webb rushing out seeing the threat sliding in to save at the strikers feet.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds with Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

   Norwich certainly looking to pressure Cambridge on the ball force errors, nipping in to regain possession from a throw right side Smith brings the ball under control turns in field squaring it to Russell 25 yards out top of the D, she lays it forwards into the area for Natasha Snelling looking to break in behind the pass a little heavy out for a goal kick. Numbers up to close the ball down Norwich quickly regain possession as Cambridge look to break on through the middle Russell lining up a shot from outside the box left of the D racing low towards the bottom corner, Webb down smartly to save. Smith is proving a nuisance for the Cambridge defence as she looks to power forwards with the ball, Ella Marden at left back getting the tackle in to take the ball away from her as she turns inside. 

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

  Cambridge taking their time to find their rhythm having made a nervous start, looking for Fox and Wiltshire out on the flanks in attack the ball comes left for Wiltshire pushed on for Partridge who uses her body well to hold up the ball playing it back to her captain Gisella Otten in the middle before spinning in behind, Otten looking to thread the pass into her plays it too straight allowing Bryony Williams to collect unopposed inside the Norwich box. Katie Knights for Norwich and Sammy Edgar for Cambridge are too uncompromising ball winning midfielders a competitive tussle forming in the middle of the park. Edgar putting a strong tackle in on Smith as she attempts to drive on with the ball once more Smith winning the free-kick in front of the centre circle.

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

 Chardonnay Johnston to play the ball short to Smith pulling to the right in space sending an angled cross in to be attacked beyond the far post Symonds with a glancing header the ball wide. Cambridge coming back at Norwich better now as they look to push bodies forwards hustle possession in Norwich’s half. Edgar in strong to win the ball taking it forwards towards the edge of the area left of the D plays in inside to Partridge top of the D, can’t quite take it in her stride as she looks to see the ball across her and shoot. Smith’s driving runs with the ball a constant danger have the Cambridge defence back peddling almost succeeds in sending the pass on for Snelling, Webb though alert to the danger again out quickly to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb getting hold of the ball

  Fox out on the right takes the ball off Johnston at the back and races on down the flank putting an early looped cross into the six yard box, is just over Wiltshire who has drifted in to the near post area.

  GOAL! No sooner have Norwich almost carved out a chance one end then Cambridge get up the other end and open the scoring. Webb quick to realise the ball helped on up to Partridge positioned right of the D some 25 yards out not closed down turns on the ball and catches the strike superbly to smash the ball home for her first Cambridge goal 1-0.

Francesca Partridge celebrating scoring her 1st Cambridge goal!

  Closing on on 20 minutes played the deadlock broke a fantastic strike from Francesca Partridge. Norwich get straight on the attack from the restart Cambridge caught napping as Tod steals clear on the right into the box wide of goal closing in on the by-line sends a cross in Webb down to claim. Knights busy in the centre getting her challenges in winning the ball for Norwich her diagonal pass finding Symonds in the right channel, shifts inside shaping to shoot, Otten throwing herself in harms way to block it. Alysha Stojko-Down on with the ball for Cambridge out to Wiltshire on the left squares it into Partridge, Knights tracking back to defend for Norwich.

Norwich midfielder, Katie Knights

   Parker is down needing treatment a chance for both sides to take on fluids an even contest now after a bright start from Norwich. Larkins travelling on with the ball in space for Norwich playing a great diagonal pass into the area for Snelling to bring down left of the goal, Webb coming to close looks to chip it on, Webb getting the faintest of touches falls straight to Smith central the flag up against her before she can unleash her shot. Cambridge feed the ball up the line left for Partridge is fouled by Knights winning a free kick 30 yards out. Wiltshire over the ball takes the shot on her effort over the goal. 

  GOAL! Norwich have possession in the middle a speculative pass played forwards, Waygood goes to cut it out for Cambridge sliding onto the ball is a miscue as the ball deflects off her foot in behind left straight for Symonds racing in taking the ball on into the area Webb coming looks to strike the shot high over her Webb getting her gloves up getting something on the ball but unfortunately straight down into path of Snelling running in central to tap the ball home for six yards for her 1st goal of the season 1-1.

Natasha Snelling equalises for Norwich

  Cambridge advance down the left from the restart Wiltshire winning the hosts their first corner of the game. Wiltshire to play it into the area goes long beyond the far post Fox their to meet it inside the six yard box a good header down towards goal, Williams in goal down sharply to make the blocking save the ball turned away to the left retrieved by Wiltshire angles the ball back in towards goal, Williams back on her feet claiming it. Both sides looking to add to the score line Norwich finding Todd wide right shifts inside her cross fizzed in cut out Smith latching onto the rebound outside the box smashing it goalwards, Waygood with the block.

Ruth Fox connects with the header for Cambridge

  Smith brought own on the right a free-kick for Norwich 35 yards out, Russell over it the cross into the far post through everyone. Waygood showing a good turn of pace at the back to recover get back on Snelling clear for a throw as she is played in on the right channel for Norwich. Griffin with a diagonal pass long looking for Wiltshire wide left, Ceri Flye winning the header for Norwich at the back. Competitive in the middle a few challenges flying in Norwich finding Symonds left outside the area playing it into Snelling finds room to squeeze a shot away her stabbed effort blocked by Lauren Rouse. 

Laruen Rouse holding off Norwich’s Natasha Snelling

  Into stoppage time at the end of a lively first half the ball fed into Symonds from the left controls well shifting it twice between her feet inside the area as the Cambridge defence close her down, nevertheless gets a shot away threatening to creep into the bottom corner Webb wrongfooted initially scrambling back to throw herself at the ball palm it away to safety. Norwich finishing the half strong Russell’s free kick bringing a corner Cambridge heading clear as the half draws to a close.  

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Norwich City Women

  Honours even at the end of the first half the sides drawing 1-1. Norwich starting the brighter putting Cambridge under pressure forcing errors the hosts looking nervous taking a little time to settle into the game the visitors with chances to open the scoring before Francesca Partridge scored in the 18th minute with a superb strike to give Cambridge the lead. Norwich kept going a mix up at the back leading to them scoring the equalising goal past the half hour. Cambridge forcing a top class save from Williams unlucky not to be leading at the break. All to play for 2nd half.

Norwich’s Rebecca Russell

  An injury for Symonds in the first half she is replaced by Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge unchanged getting the 2nd half underway, Otten sending it long to the left for Wiltshire, Larkins defending, both Otten and Edgar snapping in to win the ball keep the momentum with the hosts as they look to make a fast start to the 2nd half the Norwich defence getting in their blocks standing firm, Intent from Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half Edgar rushing in to win the ball out to Fox on the right turns inside tackled by Johnston. 

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins

 Cambridge attacking Fox on the ball wins the hosts a corner out on the right played in beyond the far post Edgar getting her head on the ball her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. Norwich riding out the early Cambridge storm the game settling down into a more even contest both sides vying for the ball. The visitors with a throw on the right half way inside the Cambridge half Smith bringing it down turning inside shaping to curl a shot in towards goal, is an unfortunately block from Todd in front of her to deflect the ball away for a goal kick.

Norwich’s Alice Parker with Cambridge’s Ruth Fox

  Cambridge inviting a bit of pressure as Norwich are strong out of possession looking to hustle players into rushing passes making errors. Flye across to defend on Wiltshire as Marden looks to lift the ball on up the flank. Fox on the right spins off her marker well getting in behind on the wing lifting a cross into the area Johnston up to head the ball away at the near post conceding a corner. Played in long knocked back in Edgar attacking it deflected behind for another corner. The in swinger snatched down well by Williams.

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

  Todd looks to bring the ball down out left as the clearance is lifted up to her Rouse getting a foot in t take the ball away conceding a corner kick played in from the left across the six yard box Snelling stretching beyond the six yard box sends the ball wide. 

Norwich’s Megan Todd

  GOAL! Past the hour mark Norwich have been getting plenty forwards in attack and over whelm the right side Larkins up with Stanley driving on to the by line into the box cuts the cross back into the top of the six yard box players lining up to meet it comes to Snelling to stab home for her 2nd of the game to put the visitors into the lead 1-2.

Natasha Snelling celebrates after she puts Norwich into the lead

  Cambridge suffering a blow trailing at home look to get on down the right Griffin up with Fox, Parker defending the out for a goal kick. Norwich’s Smith gets hold of the ball in the final third 25 yards out central the pass short inti Stanley right of the D, plays in inside the area to Snelling ahead of her closed down the ball back with Stanley sees Larkins racing forwards wide left picking her out the full back striking her shot over on the angle. Norwich looking strong getting players forwards  forcing Norwich back making it difficult for them to find their own attacking players.

   Marden picking up a knock Cambridge making a change at the back with Albany Hodgson coming on. Norwich winning a corner on the right a good ball into the six yard box dealt with well by Edgar at the near post with a good header for Cambridge. Griffin out from the back on for Partridge in attack, free for a moment a good turn of pace form Flye to get across and clear the ball for a throw. The ball never still for long particularly in the middle pinging back and forth Cambridge have the break Wiltshire central laying it off to Partridge drifting right, shapes to shoot Johnston throwing herself into the block to deny her from 20 yards out.

Chardonnay Johnston defending for Norwich

   A free -kick for Cambridge wide right 30 or so yards out Wiltshire takes on the shot a dangerous ball in dropping late has Williams needing to pluck it down to safety back on her goal line. 

  GOAL! Into the final 15 minutes , Griffin is left in a heap as she is dispossessed half way inside the Cambridge half on the right, Smith racing on with the ball down the channel taking it inside the box closing in on goal blasting a shot at Webb the keeper down spreading herself to make the save the ball not under control deflects up and into Smith to collect on the rebound and turn home at the 2nd attempt 1-3.

Ellie Smith making the block on Fox scoring Norwich’s 3rd goal

  Worse for Cambridge, Griffin hurt from the initial challenge that led to the goal can’t continue a 2nd change enforced with Abi Davies on. Edgar with a talking too from the referee after another robust tackle. Norwich from the resulting free-kick 30 yards out Russell putting her effort over the bar. Time ticking down for Cambridge to get themselves back into the match with a free kick top of the circle. Wiltshire decides to have a pop at goal, is close by Williams can see it safely onto the roof of her net. 

 Norwich making their 2nd change of the game with Smith the player coming off to be replaced by Liv Cook. Stojko-Down heads the ball on for Partridge inside the box, Johnston and Flye closing her down wins her side a corner. Played in from the right to the far post is turned wide. Stojko-Down comes off for Cambridge, on comes Sunny McGregor for the closing stages with time running out for Cambridge to find a goal.

  GOAL! One minute of regular time left on the clock and the back of the net is found one last time as Norwich break up a Cambridge attack the ball into full back Larkins on the right looks to send it long is a brilliant ball up into the box with substitute Liv Cook pulling in behind at the near post looking to see it drop over her shoulder and shoot, before she can she is brought down by Hodgson the referee pointing to the spot penalty! Snelling on a hat-trick placing the ball on the spot makes no mistake sending the keeper the wrong way placing the ball centrally lifting it into the back of the net 1-4. 

Natasha Snelling scores from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick

  Snelling’s last action of the game as she comes off to be replaced by Leilah Gooding. Stoppage time being played. Cambridge find Partridge pulling away left of the D her attempted a lob defending the ball falling to Wiltshire 30 yards out her strike from distance held by the keeper. Another change for Cambridge with Niamh Day on for Fox. Edgar picking up a late yellow card as thing’s get heated in the circle between her, Knights and Russell. Todd wins a corner for Norwich defended Webb sending the ball long for Partridge in attack a shot from the edge of the box is cleanly caught by Williams.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-4 Norwich City Women

  Norwich starting their campaign with a win on the opening day. A confidence boosting result with a strong 2nd half to claim victory. A competitive contest the visitors making a good start to the game taking the game to Cambridge before the hosts settled and went on to open the scoring. A mistake leading to the equaliser Cambridge nevertheless with chances to lead at half-time started the 2nd half with intent but after riding that out Norwich looked strong taking the game to their opponents getting players forwards pressing the ball taking the lead on the hour adding a 3rd with less than 15 minutes left. Cambridge pushing on searching for a reply, conceding a late penalty to see Natasha Snelling claim her hat-trick. The final score maybe a little harsh on Cambridge, Norwich playing well for the 3 points, will be alot happier than they were this time last season for sure.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. Sometimes they are easy but most of the time it’s a tough decision. Players to mention from both sides, starting with Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire working hard up front to run the channel make herself available press the defence on the ball. Francesca Partridge making a solid debut, please to say Women’s Football East is sponsoring her for the season. Showed good presence up top and scored a fantastic goal. For Norwich, Ceri Flye made an impressive debut in defence with a number of well timed tackles good positioning throughout. Katie Knights was busy in the middle breaking up play and Ellie Smith always impresses whenever I see her in action a strong runner on the ball her driving runs form the middle had Cambridge on the back foot constantly. Today’s award goes to their hat-trick scorer,  Natasha Snelling. Took her goals well with some great runs during the match to get into the box and bring her teammates into play.

  Great to start a new season, an enjoyable afternoon at the Abbey Stadium a good crowd of 64 in attendance that showed their appreciation to Cambridge despite the result. Squad lists after the saviour to a match report writer but I appreciate getting the team sheets nonetheless. Looking forwards t the season ahead, actually have the next months games planned already but I’m not jinxing it by telling anyone what they are. It’s good to be back.

by Darren Gilham