Tag Archives: Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Harpenden Town Women

Sunday 7th January

ERWFL Division One North

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year. Raring to go in 2024 as the football season resumes after the festive period. A wet start to the year with Storm Henk blowing in causing chaos with the fixture schedule, nevertheless plenty of tasty games to choose from beginning the year with a top of the table clash from ERWFL Division One North with early pace setters Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women hosting new leaders Harpenden Town Women in the first game of a double header between the sides that could go along way to seeing who can clinch to title and with it promotion to the Premier Division.

  Both sides amongst a host of new sides joining the regional set up this season as the ERWFL reaches it full potential of 36 sides playing across 3 divisions a 12 strong Premier Division with a Division One North and South each 12 strong feeding into it. Two sides since withdrawing from ERWFL Division One North leaving 10 sides to contest the league.

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women one of 3 Norfolk sides moving up into the ERWFL this season, with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies and Thetford Town Ladies. Finishing runners-up to Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division One, went on to lift the League Cup. A lot of planning and preparation involved prior to promotion to ensure the club was ready on and off the field to challenge at a higher level, hit the ground running winning 5-0 at home against Biggleswade United Women beginning a 6 match unbeaten run winning 5 and drawing one to lead the table early on.

 One defeat so far a narrow 2-1 to 3rd placed Newmarket Town Women allowing Harpenden Town Women to take over at the top prior to Christmas face their league challenges in back to back fixtures in January. Two crucial matches. Have build a large squad with several players coming through the youth levels together one of those top scorer Victoria Leyer who has always been amongst the goals for the club netting 16 to date from 12 appearances this season while Tallulah Bell has 8 goals to her name from 12. Bringing younger players on part of the clubs philosophy with Izzy Noakes and Alisha Juby named on the bench the latest additions to the squad.

  Harpenden Town Women one of three clubs promoted to the ERWFL this season, the geography of the leagues seeing their fellow Hertfordshire sides, Hertford Town Women and Wormley Rovers Ladies join Division One South. Finishing in 3rd spot Harpenden Town Women like Dussindale & Hellesdon won silverware last season too beating Colney Heath Ladies Reserves to win the League Cup. Began their ERWFL campaign with a 4-3 loss away to fellow promoted side Histon Ladies… however haven’t looked back since with a 100% record stretching to 7 matches that has seen them overhaul Dussindale & Hellesdon at the top.

  Striker Sophia Amanor’s goals going along way to seeing Harpenden Town Women win 7 straight league matches, way out in front as not only Harpenden’s top scorer but the league itself with a staggering 31 goals so far from 14 appearances. Becky McShane the next highest goal scorer in the side with 4 to her name. Goals right throughout the side however with a further 11 players on the scoresheet so far this season. Taking over at the top face two important matches against Dussindale & Hellesdon that could go along way into shaping the season.

  The Nest the venue for todays league encounter, the new sports facility to the north of Norwich close to the airport the home to both Norwich City Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women with a number of full sized grass and artificial pitches. The main artificial pitch beside the clubhouse featuring a large cafeteria/dining area and conference room beside. Storm Henk blowing in yet more rain, rivers full to bursting across the county the worst thankfully blown through the ground saturated, the artificial surface a blessing the game never in doubt, although with kick-off fast approach, Harpenden’s team bus was yet to arrive. the weather dry but overcast and chilly the visitors arriving at 1:40pm, little time to get warmed up kick off delayed slightly to allow the players time to limber up properly.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Siesha Humphries, Ella Swift, Jess Barnes, Calista Tink (C), Chloe Shipman, Abby Hutchin, Rachel Bussey, Victoria Leyer, Issy Moore & Rosie George. Subs – Addison Gregory, Kari Kowalczyk, Chelsea Brister, Izzy Noakes & Alisha Juby.

Harpenden Town Women

Harpenden Town Women starting XI – Sophie Harris, Kacee Warren. Erin Shacklock, Rebecca Dowdall (C), Iva Hrisimova, Chloe Dinsey, Melody Jones, Natalie Cloy, Jamie Curtain, Belle Shannon & Sophia Amanor. Subs – Jasmine Hughes, Hannah Pope, Reese Ayres & Becky McShane.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Rebecca Dowdall and Calista Tink with today’s referee Steven Hemp

  It’s the visitors Harpenden to get the match under way kicking off the 1st half wearing aquamarine coloured shirts with black across the top of the chest and sleeves, with black shorts and aquamarine coloured socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon lined up opposite wearing claret coloured shirts with sky blue trim, claret shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence swept out to the right Jamie Curtain out wide looking to play Natalie Cloy in ahead of her fullback Siesha Humphries sticking a foot in to take the ball off her for a throw in.

  The visitors fresh having just warmed up and staying out ready for kick-off starting well putting the Dussindale & Hellesdon back line under pressure attacking down the flanks, Curtain again on the right flashing a cross into the top of the area, Chloe Shipman latching onto it for Dussindale & Hellesdon carrying the ball out clearing to the opposite flank, Harpenden snatching it back the strike from 25 yards out put over the bar.

Chloe Shipman bringing the ball away for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  Dussindale & Hellesdon winning the ball at the back find Issy Moore pulling wide on the left sends the ball on through the middle looking for Rosie George leading the attack, in a race towards the Harpenden box with captain Rebecca Dowdall, George is adjudged to have fouled the defender halting the attack. 

 Sophie Amanor looking strong with the ball at her feet pulling out wide to the right, looks to take the ball on inside the full back, Humphries late with her tackle catching Amanor with a painful blow to her ankle sending the striker sprawling. A moment of concern for Harpenden as Amanor receives treatment. Humphries shown an early yellow card. Amanor up and okay to play on as Belle Shannon stands over the resulting free-kick.

 GOAL! The ball swept in towards the near post Amanor making the run across defender Jess Barnes as she goes to head the ball, only succeeding in glancing it on behind her into the onrushing crowd, Dowdall amongst those knocking the ball in towards goal past the keep, Amanor closing in stooping to head the ball which could very well have already been over the line 0-1.

Harpenden captain, Rebecca Dowdall

 Harpenden might have arrived late but have the early lead in Norwich as they open the scoring inside 5 minutes. The visitors looking to press the advantage Melody Jones getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park spreading the pass out to the left Cloy racing on the ball send into the area aiming for Curtain closing in on the far side, Humphries getting a foot on the ball to knock it out of play for a corner. 

  All action as the corner is lifted in near side, Curtain up well to power her header in towards goal blocked by the defender covering the post, down before the goal line goalkeeper Tyla Cole down looking to grab hold of the ball as Shannon rushes in to attack it deflected out of the keepers gloves Dussindale & Hellesdon defending for all their worth somehow keep the ball out before Cole eventually lays claim to it.

  Jones regaining possession out on the left inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half sweeping a long diagonal pass out to the right, Curtain the target, Moore tracking back well for the hosts there to intercept. Erin Shacklock clearing the ball up to Curtain central she looks to send the ball on in behind the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence with Amanor breaking in behind, Cole starts to come out of her area to clear but realising the ball has enough momentum on it falls back into her area to see the ball roll safely into her gloves.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon having out ride out a strong opening salvo from Harpenden come away with the ball lifted on for Moore breaking into space on the left the cross turned back into the area near side for Victoria Leyer to try and shift inside to shoot her strike charged down the ball deflected down towards the by-line left of goal, George racing after it trying to put the ball back in across goal can only play it straight into the arms of Harpenden goalkeeper Sophie Harris. 

 Moore looking the best outlet for Dussindale & Hellesdon as she runs into space out on the left flank down to the touchline turning into the box rides two challenges before Iva Hrisimova comes across to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick. The corner delivered into the six yard box headed out to the top of the area, Moore pulled up for a high boot as she looks to regain possession for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

Harpenden’s Natalie Cloy

  Harpenden attacking down the right Curtain with Amanor combining the latter taking the ball on in behind turning into the area, Barnes getting back to charge down her cross turn the ball behind for a corner. Flighted in near side George getting her head to the ball takes a deflection off a Harpenden player to see the ball land on the roof of the net. 

 GOAL! Winning the ball back Barnes carries the ball out of the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon before laying it on for Moore racing away down the left wing squaring her cross into the six yard box, Harris calls for the ball going down to claim it, but George has other ideas as the attacker lunging forwards stretches a long leg out to turn the ball under the keeper and into the back of the net to level the scores 1-1.

Rosie George levels the scores for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  Harpenden look for a rapid response getting down the other end to win a corner kick on the right, played in close to goal, Cole under it knocking the ball out to the top of the area, half cleared to the left Jones getting back onto the ball for Harpenden sending the cross back into the area cleared by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink. 

 Amanor seeing the ball into her feet 35 yards out turning and making a strong run towards her opponents area letting fly from distance the shot racing wide of the left post. A lively contest Dussindale & Hellesdon coming back into the game well after Harpenden’s bright start. Leyer bundled over on halfway as she looks to carry the ball forwards for the hosts. Players go forwards as Tink looks to play the ball long into the area, Kacee Warren winning it with her head for Harpenden then races out to charge down Humphries before she can send the rebound back into the box. 

Harpenden’s Kacee Warren

Harpenden bringing the ball on down the left wing Cloy with Shannon the cross lifted high in close towards Cole’s goal the keeper jumping up to confidently get hold of the ball. Amanor making some excellent runs into the channels looking to carry the ball in behind, the Dussindale & Hellesdon full backs busy. Dussindale & Hellesdon break from the back the ball put out to Abby Hutchin moving right her diagonal ball back inside put into Leyer’s path her touch seeing the ball swerve away from goal out to the right George closing the defender down as she looks to clear doing well to win a corner.

   The delivery from the right played in near side attacked by George the header driven wide of the right post. Quick build up play from the hosts as Shipman plays the ball on for George who in turn spins the ball out to the right into the path of Hutchin whose early strike on the angle is driven wide.

 

  GOAL! Pressing forwards Dussindale & Hellesdon win the ball outside the Harpenden area to the right of goal, Leyer with a superb strike to fire the ball in over the keeper into the back of the net to put the hosts into the lead on the half hour 2-1. 

Victoria Leyer firing Dussindale & Hellesdon into the lead

  A lively affair now Dussindale & Hellesdon after the ball looking to get forwards with pace put the Harpenden defence on the back foot. Leyer picking up the ball charging on towards the top of the D, Dowdall with the tackle. Amanor with another powerful run driving on towards the Dussindale & Hellesdon area, brought down by Barnes 25 yards from goal. Chloe Dinsey over the set-piece takes on the shot, fired in on target, Cole diving to her right getting her gloves onto the ball to save knocking it away to the right.

Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

 Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick wide on the right, Hutchin to play the ball into the area, George up well to attack it but her header lands wide of the near post. Flowing football from both sides. Harpenden getting hold of the ball in the middle, Dinsey looking for Jones moving left, Swift sticking a leg out to intercept deflecting the ball out of her path. Bussey tracking back to defend for Dussindale & Hellesdon as Jones looks to get forwards on the left flank. 

Harpenden midfielder, Melody Jones

 Warren hits a great ball in over the top for Shannon bursting in behind the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence but stretching can’t quite get the ball under control to threaten the goal. Harpenden with a free kick out wide on the left swept on into the area Tink knocking the ball out of her box, falls to Curtain who attempts to knock it back inside for Cloy on the penalty spot, Tink there again however to snatch the ball away to safety. 

Jess Barnes holding of Harpenden’s Jamie Curtain

 Harpenden with a change late in the first half bringing off Dinsey, on comes Becky McShane. The ball pinging back and forth in the middle comes back to Warren who attempts to play an awkward ball back to her keeper, the pass short, as Harris rushes forwards, Moore nips in to get her foot on the ball knock it past the keeper, who turns to see it safely roll wide of her goal. 

  GOAL! Into the closing seconds of the first half, swift in possession for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back brings the ball on before sending a brilliant ball into the right channel for Leyer to latch onto 25 yards from goal, racing into the box pulls the trigger to smash her strike low past the diving keeper into the goal beyond 3-1. 

Victoria Leyer shooting to put Dussindale & Hellesdon into a 3-1 on the stroke of half-time.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 3-1 Harpenden Town Women

 A lively contest between the side at the top of the league, despite arriving late Harpenden got off the the brighter start taking the ball to Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking the flanks taking an early lead. Creating further chances before Dussindale & Hellesdon regrouped to start applying pressure the other way breaking down the left to find the equaliser the game free flowing at times a brilliant strike from Leyer putting the hosts into the lead on the half hour before Leyer was played through on goal by Ella Swift to make it 3-1 on the stroke of half-time. A useful cushion for Dussindale & Hellesdon going into the 2nd half Harpenden however carry a strong threat in attack.

  No changes for the hosts at the break, Harpenden out for the 2nd half early keen to get going making two changes with Reese Ayres and Jasmine Hughes coming on for Warren and Shannon. Light already fading the floodlights partially on with Dussindale & Hellesdon getting the 2nd 45 underway. Harpenden in quickly to close the ball down looking to take the game to their opponents, Shipman getting in a timely tackle to stop Jones feeding the ball on for Amanor. 

 Amanor taking up a position on the left dragging the ball back under her feet before p[laying it down the left flank for Cloy the chase, Barnes going with her as the pair close in on the by-line the defender clearing the ball out for a corner kick. Flung into the six yard box, Tink up amongst bodies to win the header and clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

 The hosts attacking down the left the ball played on for Moore her cross cut out by Dowdall. Back with Dussindale & Hellesdon on the left the cross-field ball finding Bussey to the right of the box, strikes the ball on the angle from 20 yards out Harris down to save pushing the ball out players rushing into attack the loose ball clatters down off the crossbar. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Rachel Bussey

  Leyer taking hold of the ball on the left flank her runs causing the Harpenden midfield some issues as she tracks inside before threading the ball into the area looking for George central, caught a little flat footed can’t react in time before Harris rushing out snatches hold of the ball. 

Harpenden goalkeeper, Sophie Harris

  Swift does well to tackle Amanor stop her getting in behind on the left the defending seeing things open up before her deciding to have a crack at goal from range, her effort not troubling the keeper. Amanor out on the left does find a way in behind this time racing down to the by-line cutting into the box closing in on Cole’s near post the keeper positioning herself the strike powerful blasted under her striking the base of the post rebounding back into the grounded keeper, Amanor trying to get over her to turn the loose ball goal wards can only place it into the side netting. 

  Swift having her hands full with Amanor as Jones plays the striker in down the left the defender back on her to challenge play the ball behind for a corner kick. The delivery into the six yard box knocked on towards the far post, cleared well by the defender on the post away to the right. 

 

  Harpenden build through the middle Hughes playing the ball to Cloy who in turn sends it out to Curtain bombing down the right her cross lifted into the area, Amanor making a near post run, Cole does well to read the flight of the ball come to catch it in front of the attacker. Amanor looking to take the ball on carrying it into the box from the left twisting and turning looking for an opening can’t find one before the Dussindale & Hellesdon defender converge en masse. Shacklock putting the ball on well for Amanor left side down the wing her cross along the top of the six yard box intercepted by Tink.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change, George coming off, with Alisha Juby a new singing from King’s Lynn coming on to make her debut for the club going up top. Continues to be an intriguing contest, Harpenden doing there all to get back into the game Dussindale & Hellesdon working hard to keep them at bay. The visitors making another switch bringing off Curtain for Hannah Pope. Referee Steven Hemp spotting a handball Harpenden winning a free-kick 30 yards out, McShane to play the ball on into the area, attacked and cleared by Tink for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

  Leyer with the ball at her feet on the move for Dussindale & Hellesdon out to the left lifting a cross into the middle for Hutchin who attempts to help it on with her head for Bussey out to her right, the flag though going up against her. Cloy coming off for Harpenden with Shannon re-entering the action. Juby on the attack down the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Shacklock tracking back to put in the challenge knocking the ball of Juby behind for a goal kick.

Rachel Bussey with Harpenden’s Erin Shacklock

  Amanor turning on the ball central to lay it out to Pope attacking down the right channel striking the ball on the angle from 20 yards out, Cole gets down well to make the save for Dussindale & Hellesdon. The ball played long for Amanor to attack out on the left strong to get into the area closing in on goal, Barnes gets back across her to put in the challenge send the ball behind for a corner kick. Fired in near side attacked by Ayres the ball wide taking a knick of a defender on its way out. The 2nd corner put in low central into Hughes on the penalty spot squeezes her shot through the crowd towards goal but Cole is right behind it to drop low to save.

  Harpenden pushing players on looking for a reply Shacklock inside to Shannon on halfway picks out Amanor breaking free left side squares her cross into the six yard box too close to the keeper, Cole down to smother the ball. Dussindale & Hellesdon soaking up a lot of pressure content to pick their moments going forwards determined to hold onto their lead. Leyer providing a good outlet going forwards with some useful runs on the ball.

 A few spots of rain in the are as the floodlights take full effect the odd plane coming in to land flying low over the pitch. Amanor chasing after the ball shielding it out to win the corner on the left, another good delivery into the six yard box, Tink though the one defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon to head it clear. The hosts making another change with Bussey coming off and George coming on to support Juby in attack. Hutchin sending the ball on for Moore out on the left, Dowdall closing her down to defend for Harpenden the ball cleared up the line Humphries latching onto it shooting from all of 30 yards out her attempt put wide.

Jasmine Hughes attacking for Harpenden

  Dinsey coming back on for Harpenden replacing Jones. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick 30 yards out to the left of the Harpenden goal, Leyer fancying in puts her strike over the crossbar. Cole out off her line quickly to come and lay claim to the ball as Shannon looks to play the pass on for Amanor pulling off her marker top of the D.

  GOAL! Amanor has been threatening a goal all 2nd half and switching over to the right finds a way through to set up a nervy close to the match attacking down the right the ball is played into the attackers path racing to the by-line the angle rapidly going away from her slides into the shot Cole going down to save the ball somehow squirming under her at the near post to trickle over the line beyond her 3-2. 

Sophia Amanor pulling a goal back for Harpenden late in the game

  Dussindale & Hellesdon do well to win a corner on the left up the other end looking to eat up valuable time make a mess of it playing a short ball back up the line as Harpenden nip in to steal the ball and counter, Humphries doing well to force the attacker wide hold her up allowing her defence to get back into shape, Pope getting inside squeezing a ball into the area, Cole with a strong call rushing out to throw herself on the ball.

Iva Hrisimova

 

  Barnes getting in the blocking tackle to stop Amanor as she looks to turn and run with the ball. Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking on the left Moore inside for Hutchin 25 yards out her strike charged down out for a corner high up the pitch. Steady rain falling now. time ticking down Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to keep possession with a throw on the right, Hrisimova winning it back for Harpenden looks to send the ball long for Hughes her cross cut out by Tink.

 One last attack for Harpenden Amanor fed in on the right into the box driving to the by-line goes down appeals, the ref in a good position waving play on, no penalty. The final whistle blowing moments later, Dussindale & Hellesdon holding on for the win the 3 points taking them back to the top of the league.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 3-2 Harpenden Town Women

  Dussindale & Hellesdon with a strong defensive performance in the 2nd half to hold off a determined Harpenden fightback. Sophia Amanor strong on the ball creating chances eventually pulling a goal back for the visitors, not enough however as the hosts held on for the 3 points. Taking their chances in the first half to get themselves into a 3-1, Dussindale & Hellesdon played well having soaked up some early pressure before coming back into the match with several useful attacking moves. Overall an entertaining contest fought between the sides at the top of the table and the return game at Harpenden in two weeks time promises to be no less intriguing.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Might be a new year but it’s won by a player whose collected a few of these in the past. Several performance of note to mention of course for Harpenden, Sophia Amanor was excellent in attack running down the flanks taking on the defence easy to see why she scores so many goals created numerous chances. Jamie Curtain too very good on the right getting forwards and looking to set up her teammates while Melody Jones showed a useful range of passes in the middle of the park competing for the ball. For Dussindale & Hellesdon the defence had their work cut out at time however were up to the task, Jess Barnes and Calista Tink making some useful interceptions and tackles. Goalkeeper Tyla Cole commanding her box well with some great calls and positioning. The award today though goes to Victoria Leyer, scoring two superb goals but no only that make some brilliant runs from the middle to put the Harpenden back line under pressure and bring her teammates into contention. 

  A highly entertaining game from the top of ERWFL Division One North to start the new year. Both sides enjoying life playing at the higher level. Have no doubt the follow up game will be just as entertaining. Will we be any closer to knowing who might win the league after that… I doubt it. First time seeing Harpenden a pleasure to see them in action. My thanks for everyone’s help with the team line ups today much appreciated. Here’s to a great 2024.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Thetford Town Ladies

Wednesday 18th May

Norfolk Women’s League One

 The 2021/22 season is reaching it’s climax, just a handful of fixtures left to complete just 3 more left for Women’s Football East to cover, beginning this evening with my final league fixture of the season, from Norfolk Women’s Division One with Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies fresh from winning the League Plate on Sunday playing they’re penultimate game of the season at home to Thetford Town Ladies playing their last competitive fixture of the campaign.

A cup final win for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on Sunday against Caister FC Ladies in the NWGFL Plate their first trophy under there new name after moving from Sprowston to become Dussindale & Hellesdon a couple of seasons ago, are currently 3rd in the Division One table 4 points behind 2nd placed and League Cup winners, Fakenham Town Ladies with 2 games to play. Fakenham played out their fixture can only watch now Dussindale & Hellesdon with a superior goal difference needed 4 points from their remaining two fixtures to ensure them of a runners-up finish, lose and it’s all over Fakenham can’t be caught. A hat-trick for Shanice Sutton in Sunday’s Plate Final seeing her become leading goal scorer for Dussindale & Hellesdon with 38 goals one ahead of Victoria Leyer.

 Thetford Town Ladies travel over to The Nest this evening knowing they are going to finish 4th in the Division One table. They’re highest ever finish to a season as the club looks to become an established force in the league with the ambition to push on further next season. Have achieved this having had terrible luck with injuries, there squad struggling for numbers at times particularly to their defenders. Have bolstered the squad with some useful signings to help their challenge for a top 4 finish such as Hannah Claughton from Norwich and Becky Russell dual signed from Wroxham. Becky White, Thetford’s leading goal scorer with 17 for the season so far.

  The Nest the venue for this evenings game the state of the art facility on the outskirts of Norwich home to not only Norwich City Women but also Dussindale & Hellesdon, who normally use the grass pitch leading into the complex but with that undergoing maintenance the main 3G pitch is hosting their Division One clash with Thetford a game under the lights the cafe open serving a range of cakes and snacks, along with hot food and drinks. Like most 3G facilities the 3G pitch well used a large number of youth goalkeepers being put through their paces whilst two sides warm up behind. Another warm and sunny day leading into a pleasant evening beginning to cool but no sign of any rain.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Amee Kennett, Siesha Humphries, Calista Tink (C), Maddy Goodenough, Abi Nobbs, Lucy Wetherall, Georgina Belton, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister & Shanice Sutton. Subs – Ruby Wilson, Kari Kowalczyk, Charlie Head & Tallulah Bell.

Thetford Town Ladies

 Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Lydia Ward, Zoe Klimcke, Ellie-Mae Davies, Erin Lloyd, Rachel Lynch, Dayna Howard (C), Becky Russell, Hannah Claughton, Abbie Corbyn, Charlotte Howard & Becky White. Sub – Courtney Musgrove.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Dussindale & Hellesdon with just the one change to the squad that started Sunday’s Plate final, Tallulah Bell named on the bench. Thetford travelling with just the one substitute available with a number of players carrying knocks. Dayna Howard named as captain in the place of the absent Melissa Boulton. It’s the visitors to kick-off the first half, Thetford wearing blue shirts with a white band across the front and sleeves, navy coloured shorts and socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon in their claret strip. The ball played out to the left Hannah Claughton getting forwards, Dussindale & Hellesdon close straight away the ball out for a throw in.

  The ball contested on the far side of the pitch both sides battling for possession out for a series of throws, Thetford play it forwards a strike from distance running wide of the near post. Howard with Becky Russell in the middle for Thetford the ball won play spread out to Abbie Corbyn wide right bringing it down turns infield looking to drive towards the area, is brought down, Thetford awarded the free-kick. Becky White over the set-piece the striker sends an angled ball up towards goal, Tyla Cole calling for it in the Dussindale & Hellesdon call making a straight forward catch unchallenged.

Becky White with the goal attempt for Thetford (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

   Cole with another solid claim for Dussindale & Hellesdon setting up a swift counter attack the ball fed on up the right for Abby Hutchin to bomb on into the corner winning her side a throw deep in the corner. Ellie-May Davies defending for Thetford on the left seeing the visitors regain possession. A crossfield pass finding Corbyn on the right she once again takes the ball inside looking to drive for the box, Siesha Humphries challenging at the back to win the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

  Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink carrying the ball out from the back sends the ball on into the right channel with midfielder Georgina Belton pushing on, with the ball at her feet powers forwards, Erin Lloyd tackling her for Thetford halting her progress. Humphries getting up on the left to support Chelsea Brister on the wing the pair looking to get the ball into the Thetford area held up by Zoe Klimcke, as Corbyn tracking back lunges in with the tackle to put the ball away for a throw in. Put into Abbi Nobbs outside the box central passes the ball out to the right side, the cross sent in near side attacker, Shanice Sutton heading the ball over the bar.

Thetford Town Ladies, Hannah Claughton (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

   Both Belton and Lucy Wetherall looking to get on from midfield for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Won at the back Tink plays the ball up through the middle for Nobbs central has Hutchin to her right squaring the ball to her, shifts forwards, up against Davies, the Thetford full back with a strong tackle to thwart her. Brister taking the ball on left side for Dussindale & Hellesdon with an early diagonal pass into Sutton inside the D, Rachel Lynch closing her down winning the ball back for Thetford. Hutchin looking to get forwards on the right as she did in the Plate final, Davies playing the ball out for a throw. 

Thetford Town defender, Zoe Klimcke (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Thetford’s Howard with the pass for White pulling left, has Russell making a run inside to get beyond her, the pass cut out by the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence. Regained in the middle Thetford send the ball on through the middle White’s touch deflecting the ball out to Corbyn to the right, gets on with the ball heading for the area, Maddy Goodenough blocking her shot from outside the box, the counter attack on the ball lifted forwards for Sutton who beats the offside trap in behind through the centre, Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward rushing out to the top of her area to close the angle saves well, blocking the shot deflecting it behind, running wide out for a corner. 

Thetford goalkeeper, Lydia Ward (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  The corner from the right played into the top of the area, Charlotte Howard clearing for Thetford. Quickly regained, Dussindale & Hellesdon are pulled up for a hand ball. Is a decent sized pitch a lot of ground to cover Thetford’s defence keeping a good shape, Lynch marshalling her defenders. Lloyd clearing the ball out of the ground as Brister looks to attack on the left. Brister getting hold of the ball taking it on moving inside closing in on the box, strikes her shot over the crossbar. A change for Thetford at the back with Lloyd coming off, Courtney Musgrove coming on.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Georgina Belton

   Midway through the 1st half Belton onto Hutchin right into the Thetford half threads the pass on to find Sutton right of the D, squares it across to Brister inside the D, her 1st time strike curled wide of the right post. A few free-kicks creeping into the game, Nobbs going right with Humphries pulled back, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Wide left Brister over it angles a cross in to the far post, goes long out for a goal kick. Belton pulling away to the right, strength on the ball winning a throw. Up the line for Hutchin to the by-line her cross in turned behind for a corner. Goodenough looking to attack the ball near side can’t turn onto her shot as Thetford scramble it clear. 

Abbie Corbyn with Lucy Wetherall (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Lynch getting a cross to support her full back cutting out Wetherall’s pass intended for Brister on the left. Lynch’s clearance put long for Corbyn to go after on the right, Cole coming can claim top of her area. A free-kick for Thetford inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half Lynch over it goes for goal her long range effort wide of Cole’s goal. Dussindale & Hellesdon with more of the possession looking to get forwards. the Thetford defence, Lynch in particular reading the passes intercepting the ball. Sutton narrowly offside to the right of goal.

 GOAL! The opening goal coming in the final 10 minutes of the 1st half. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a quick counter attack the ball fed through to Hutchin right side travelling for the box, Davies stretching tackling her from behind upending Hutchin inside the box Penalty! Sutton placing the ball on the spot hits it well to the keepers right, Ward going the right way can’t get near it 1-0.

Shanice Sutton scoring from the penalty spot for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  The break through at last Thetford haven’t get forwards much, Corbyn the most likely on the right is given the ball by Russell drives on but is soon outnumbered run off the ball by Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back. Dayna Howard winning the ball in the middle for Thetford on for Corbyn right comes inside looking to pick out Charlotte Howard central, cleared for a throw right side. Charlotte Howard then brought down outside the box to the right corner of the area. White on the ball looks to curl a shot in towards goal, on target, Cole though with a firm call right behind it to claim.

  White coming left for Thetford taking the ball on from Claughton playing it forwards for Russell getting in on the left angles a cross in near side Corbyn arriving, Goodenough close on her blocking to turn the ball away for a corner. Late in the 1st half players up the inswinging cross lifted in near post players attacking it goes through everyone bouncing a cross goal, Corbyn free back post not really expecting it unable to get anything on it as it runs out of play.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 1-0 Thetford Town Ladies

  A double change for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the start of the 2nd half with Tallulah Bell and Charlie Head coming on up top for Wetherall and Brister. The move seeing Sutton pull out out out to the right, Hutchin deeper into midfield left side. The hosts getting the 2nd half underway looking to get Belton on the ball push on from midfield, Dayna Howard getting back on her to tackle regain the ball for Thetford. Davies on the left for Thetford looking to get on with the ball support Claughton on the wing winning a throw in. Lynch with a strong throw on her the ball long up to the area Tink getting her head under the ball to clear for a throw. 

  Russell linking up with Lynch outside the Dussindale & Hellesdon area pushing inside is closed down by the defence. Lynch with another throw down the left White taking it on as Thetford look to attack racing on sending a vicious cross into the six yard box, Cole down to lay claim to the ball with Corbyn drifting in far side. Claughton fouled on the left side as she looks to get the ball down for Thetford. Lynch on the set-piece lining up a shot, catches it wrong dragging the ball wide.

Ellie-Mae Davies with Shanice Sutton

  Thetford with a brighter start to the 2nd half, are caught out as Nobbs plays the ball through to Bell the half-time substitute racing forwards left channel feeding the ball on into fellow substitute Head inside the box, she shot fired in Ward with an instinctive save throwing out a leg to cut out the ball deflect it away to right. A strong 50/50 challenge outside the area between Belton and Klimcke leaves the defender on the ground hurt looking in trouble. A lengthy pause following as she is treated and assessed. Lloyd back on. 

15 minutes played in the 2nd half, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a corner on the right side. A great delivery in high to the near post Tink rising for it sending her effort narrowly over the bar despite a clash of heads with Lynch getting up with her. A blow to the back of the skull. Tink needs a moment to recover.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Thetford look to get forwards on the left White across with Claughton, Kennett defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Hutchin coming left getting on playing a crossfield pass into Belton central outside the D, opening up her body as the ball runs across her turns it goalwards, Ward with the save beating the ball down to her left before claiming it. 

 GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking down the right Sutton on the ball taking it in behind fires a cross into the middle of the six yard box, both Head and Bell closing it down in front of Ward, Bell with the telling touch to smash the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to double the lead 2-0.

Tallulah Bell doubles Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Dussindale & Hellesdon break on the right as a Thetford set-piece into their area is cleared Sutton bringing the ball away pace winning a corner kick. Fired into the middle of the box the ball cleared back to the corner taker, Nobbs outside whips another ball into area across the six yard box coming to Head at the far post her headed attempt not far over the bar. 

  Is a little feisty out there, a few comings together between Davies and Sutton a foul on Sutton returns the favour with a push. The referee quick to intervene cool it down issuing Sutton with a yellow card. A free-kick on the left for Thetford, lifted on into the box White stealing through her header off cue. The lights taking full effect now not the highest any high ball struck is getting lost in the darkness, calls from both sides to try and keep in on the ground. Dussindale & Hellesdon pressing through the middle Belton making her presence felt. Head is put in the clear breaking for the box central a one on one with the keeper, a push of blood as she looks to place it wide of Ward sends her effort wide of her right post. 

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Klimcke returning to the game for Thetford for Corbyn with 15 minutes of regular time left to play. Humphries finding a burst on pace to get back on White to tackle outside the area for Dussindale & Hellesdon as the Thetford attacker is played through by Russell. A free-kick given away by Dussindale & Hellesdon outside their area right of goal. The curled effort in, Cole has been strong with her calling all game and is once again firmly behind the ball.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Charlotte Howard tackling Humphries conceding a corner kick as the defender looks to get on with Hutchin in attack. The ball played in low near side finds it’s way through to Bell central, back to goal attempts the backheel rolls wide of the far post. Bell is taken out on the right just inside the box as she looks to travel with the ball, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a 2nd penalty in the 77th minute. Sutton over it again this time looking to place it in the opposite corner gets too much on it playing it wide.

  Tink with another strong tackle on Claughton as she attacks coming on from the left. On the opposite side Nobbs plays in Bell on the left running with the ball shifts inside heading for the area lining up a strike Lynch closing her down with the blocking tackle. Brister and Wetherall returning to the field for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Kennett and Sutton off. Nobbs on for Hutchin left puts it into Bells path, Klimcke cutting the ball out for Thetford. Klimcke coming off then with Corbyn retuning to the game.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Davies doing well in defence for Thetford has taken a far share of knocks for her efforts too, does well as Bell looks to link up with Brister wide. Wetherall cutting in from the left outside the D sees her shot strike the crossbar. Bell stabbing out a foot intercepting Lynch’s clearance 20 yards out sees the ball run safely through to Ward in the Thetford goal. Bell with another near miss moments later as Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking left side fire a ball in across the face of goal, Bell diving in sending it over. Goodenough coming off for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the back, Ruby Wilson coming on. 

 The game moving into stoppage time, several minutes likely to be played. Tink with the ball on from the back lifted on to Bell right side of attack her cross cut out by Dayna Howard for a corner kick. Thetford tiring late on Dussindale & Hellesdon nipping in to regain the ball. Russell looking to get on through the middle tackled by Hutchin. Bell turning a shot in straight to the keeper as Brister fires a cross in from the left, Ward taking it low. Players up and around the Thetford area Dussindale & Hellesdon squeezing the ball in the final 3rd late on. 

 GOAL! 5 minutes of stoppage time played and breaking up a Thetford attack, Dussindale & Hellesdon are quick to counter the ball fed on through the midfield finding Brister racing into the area left of goal on the angle strikes her shot across the area low into the bottom corner 3-0.

 GOAL! A further blow to Thetford deep in stoppage time as they concede a 4th goal, Hutchin on the ball central for Dussindale & Hellesdon putting the forwards pass into Head breaking on into the area holding off the challenge with the keeper advancing to close her down, she places her shot wide of Ward to send the ball on into the back of the net 4-0.

Charlie Head with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 4th goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

It gets worse for Thetford on the closing seconds as Head is pulled down inside the box as the ball is lifted over the top the hosts with a 3rd penalty on the night. Sutton off the field it’s Wetherall with the kick, placing the ball low to the right, Ward getting down to block it with her leg, saved out to the right, Bell racing in on the follow up smashed her shot over the bar.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 4-0 Thetford Town Ladies

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

4-0 win in the finish for Dussindale & Hellesdon moving them to within a point of 2nd placed Fakenham with one game to play at home to bottom side North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday. Runners up spot within their grasp. Shanice Sutton’s first half penalty the difference between the sides at the break. Thetford whilst creating little going forwards working hard to keep their opponents out in defence. A 2nd goal coming in the 65th minute. Thetford continued to work hard a rough end to the game to concede to late goals in stoppage time. Dussindale & Hellesdon though creating enough chances with two penalties also missed. Thetford nevertheless can be proud of what has been achieve this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders as is often the case. Some performances of note to mention first. For Thetford, Rebecca White put in a shift up top covering alot of ground looking for openings. In defence Ellie-Mae Davies will have a nice collection of bruises for her efforts as she put in a number of tackles, battling for the ball. Rachel Lynch powerful in the back line reading the ball and getting across to support her full backs. For Dussindale & Hellesdon, Shanice Sutton was once again lively in attack making some excellent runs. Abbi Nobbs with a solid midfield display, Georgina Belton with some powerful runs getting forwards to receive the ball. The award this evening though goes to Dussindale & Hellesdon’s captain, Calista Tink. Fantastic at the back winning the ball, getting into some good positions with some great play out from the back.

  Last league game of the season completed, a good evening under the lights at The Nest is a great facility pleasing to see players form other woman’s sides within the division thier to watch the action too. My thanks to both sides for the team details always appreciated and to Scott Grearhardy again with the photo’s used in the report. 2 more games left a trip down to Essex this Sunday for the League Cup Final between Lawford Ladies and Chelmsford City Women then to Carrow Road in midweek for the Norfolk County Cup Final between Mulbarton and Wymondham.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Caister FC Ladies

Sunday 15th May

Norfolk Women’s League Plate Final

A cup final double from Norfolk this Sunday on Women’s Football East with the NWGFL hosting the it’s final day for it’s women’s sides. Following on from yesterday’s youth finals day 3 finals taking place today, the League Plate and League Cup aswell as the 7’s League Cup. First up with a 10:30am kick-off the Women’s Plate Final between Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women and Caister FC Ladies.

 A clash between two of the highest scoring sides across the league with well over a 100 goals scored for each. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies currently 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table with 2 games still to play and could yet clinch runners-up spot with 4 points needed to overhaul Fakenham Town Ladies in 2nd. Have been playing catch-up all season, having made good progress in the cup competitions including reaching the semi-finals of the County Cup. Victoria Leyer has always been prolific in front of goal for the club since first joining the league as Sprowston carrying on as the club moved to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers a couple of seasons ago. Leyer has 37 goals for this campaign from just 13 appearances. Closing her down for top scorer is Shanice Sutton now on 35 from 20 games. Charlie head in good form too in front of goal since joining from Long Stratton scoring 20 goals with Chelsea Brister netting 16 times. 108 league goals in total for Dussindale & Hellesdon with just 19 conceded.

With 3 more goals to their name with 11 in the league are today’s opponents, Caister FC Ladies who have stormed to the Norfolk Women’s Division Two title in their debut season winning 14 of their 15 games played so far. A strong side have vast experience in the league having formerly been Gorleston FC Ladies 1st team. Making the move up the Norfolk coast this season they were hot favourites to win the league. Scoring 111 league goals an incredible 51 of those have been scored by Bethany Turner coming from just 17 games too! Ellie Hills has 22 to her name too from 17 appearances with Samantha Hunn also in double figures. Winning the Division Two title with the best defensive record too less than a goal a game with 11 conceded.

Road to the Final

  The sides knocked out of the early stages of the League Cup going onto contest the League Plate in Norfolk. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women were unfortunate to be drawn at home to Mulbarton Belle Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup a strong side like Caister odds on favourites to retain the Division One title, lost 5-1 to put them into the Plate competition. Caister FC Ladies were at home to in the 1st Round of the League Cup taking on Division One side, Stalham Town Ladies. Narrowly missing out on the wrong end of a 4-3 defeat.

Finding their goal scoring form Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women racked them up in the 1st Round of the Plate at home to North Walsham Angles Ladies with both Shanice Sutton and Chelsea Brister netting hat-tricks in an 11-1 win. Caister FC Ladies progressing without kicking a ball awarded the A-W over Horsford FC Women.

Onto the quarter final and it was once again a double figure winning margin for Dussindale & Hellesdon this time at home to Division Two newcomers, KLSC FC Women. Chelsea Brister on target for 4 goals with Charlie Head netting a double in an 11-0 win. Caister at home to local rivals, Gorleston with their new look side. A closer result this one with goals from Samantha Hunn and Bethany Turner securing a spot in the semi-finals with a 2-1 victory. Dussindale & Hellesdon needing to squeeze there game in their semi-final against fellow Division One side Sprowston FC Women taking place at The nest under the lights, drawing 2-2 at half-time Sprowston were to have their goalkeeper sent off in the 2nd period Dussindale & Hellesdon going on to score 3 to win the game 5-2. Victoria Leyer scoring 4 goals, Sutton with the other to send them into this Sunday’s final. Caister originally drawn to host Freethorpe in their semi-final the weather playing it’s part the tie switched to Freethorpe’s ground. Goals from Turner and Laura Atkinson seeing Caister into a final in their debut season winning 2-0.

A new venue for NWGFL Finals day after it’s 2 season absence due to Covid. Youngs Park, home of Aylsham FC. The modern, new built clubhouse and changing rooms overlooking a number of grass football pitches with the main pitch behind. The clubhouse is a god size housing the bar and kitchen area. Hot food available on the day. Hosting the youth finals the day before a busy one with 10 games squeezed in today’s action hosting the 3 senior final the Women’s Plate and Cup along with the 7’s final between Kirkley & Pakefield and Costessey Sports. Not as warm as yesterday. Mild but with plenty of cloud around with the threat of a shower growing throughout the day.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Amee Kennett, Siesha Humphries, Maddison Goodenough, Calista Tink (C), Abbi Nobbs, Georgina Belton, Lucy Wetherall, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister & Shanice Sutton. Subs – Ruby Wilson, Charlie Head, Kari Kowalczyk, Kirstie Rusted & Zuleika Laffitte. 

Caister FC Ladies

Caister FC Ladies starting XI – Laura Beevor, Hayley Muir (C), Enya Tooke, Elisha Maher, Maia Hollis, Nicole Sheldrake, Courtney Charlton, Molly Sims, Ellie Hills, Olivia Broughton & Bethany Turner. Subs – Kelly Allen, Caitlin Smith, Melissa Anderson & Samantha Hunn.

  (roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Dussindale & Hellesdon wearing an all claret kit to get the final underway kicking off 1st half with Caister lined up opposite wearing an all navy away kit.

  GOAL! A fast start to the game for Dussindale & Hellesdon the ball played back into Abbi Nobbs in midfield passed out to right back Amee Kennett is fed forwards to Abby Hutchin racing away up the right wing getting in behind taking the ball on squares her cross along the top of the six yard box low straight to Shanice Sutton at the far post to turn the ball into the back of the net with her first touch of the match 1-0. 

Shanice Sutton on target to score with her first touch of the game (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  A fast start to the game for Dussindale & Hellesdon taking the lead inside the opening 15 seconds. a blow for Caister who look to get the ball into Bethany Turner moving right from the restart her ball into the area cleared by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Maddison Goodenough is help on upfield out to Sutton pulling away right her early diagonal ball into the top of the Caister area looking to Chelsea Brister moving in from the left, bringing the ball down Enya Tooke is in to close her down clear the threat for Caister. 

Abby Hutchin on the move for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  Dussindale & Hellesdon buoyed by their early goal pile players on in attack Sutton drifting out to the left taking the ball off Brister dribbling to the by-line cutting inside into the box goes on before shooting close in the angle acute, Caister goalkeeper, Laura Beevor down smartly to her right diving to push the ball behind for a corner kick. The corner driven into the near post from the left is headed wide by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink up from the back. 

  Both Brister and Hutchin looking to travel with the ball on the flanks for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Sutton looking to play off the Caister defence. Siesha Humphries on the left of defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon defending as Turner looks to drive on with the ball wide. Caister make ground on the left winning a throw in the final 3rd, Molly Sims bringing the ball under control hooking it forwards into the Dussindale & Hellesdon area with Ellie Hills making the run, goalkeeper, Tyla Cole off her line quickly to claim the ball. 

  Beevor comes rushing out to the top of her area to save at the feet of Sutton as she is put in behind from a diagonal ball from Hutchin on the right. The offside flag however is up against her.  Georgina Belton coming into space on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon is played in by Nobbs, her diagonal ball into the top of the Caister box is won by Elisha Maher. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking a threat everytime they go forwards closing down the ball Caister are unable to gain a foothold inside their half. Tink coming on with the ball right sending it on for Kennett running up the right wing her cross into the area sliced clear drops straight to Lucy Wetherall outside the D drops her shoulder moving inside onto her left foot to send a shot in from 20 yards is straight at Beevor. 

Enya Tooke tackling for Caister FC Ladies

  Nicole Sheldrake bringing the ball on through the middle for Caister has Olivia Broughton ahead of her playing the ball into her path she looks to spread it left for Hills making the run to get in behind, the pass intercepted by Kennett for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Caister with a change Caitlin Smith on for Maia Hollis at the back. A throw high on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon dropped into Belton controls and turning sends a cross in along the top of the area, coming to Brister left side, her first time strike blasted wide of the right post. 

Defending the corner (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Little respite for Caister as Nobbs with Belton and Wetherall in the middle hustle possession forcing errors the ball lost. A chance for Caister to relieve some pressure as they win a free-kick wide on the right send into the opposition box, the ball cleared put on upfield the break on with Sutton racing after it. Beevor though out rapidly to the top of the area to see the ball safely into her gloves. Hutchin strong on the right bursting forwards her cross cut out by Maher falls straight to a Dussindale & Hellesdon shirt the 25 yard strike picking out Beevor back on her line to grab down. 

Laura Beevor busy in the Caister goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Beevor by far the busier of the two goalkeepers, Humphries on for Brister left cut out rolls straight to Weatherall outside the area top of the D her strike held by the Caister keeper. Belton bringing the ball on from the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon moving right sends the diagonal pass into the box looking for pulling off the defence, her header held by Beevor. Keeping the ball in the final 3rd Dussindale & Hellesdon with a throw right put inside for Weatherall top of the box right side sends it across to Brister far side her shot struck in low racing wide across the Caister goal. 

 GOAL! 20 minutes played and Dussindale & Hellesdon have shown attacking intent throughout press forwards through the middle the ball fed out to Brister moving down the left pace on the ball fires a cross into the top of the six yard box Sutton at the near post getting her foot on it striking the ball high past the keeper into the the roof of the net 2-0. 

Shanice Sutton doubling Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead

  Strong midfield running from Dussindale & Hellesdon, Belton in particular bringing the ball out finding space on the right with Hutchin occupying the defence her cross in the attack thwarted by the offside flag. Caister are doing their best to get their attackers into the game primarily Turner on the right pushes the ball out wider to be crossed into the area, cleared by Tink. Forwards into Belton again moving right attempts to lob the keeper from distance her high ball into the area dropping short, caught low by Beevor a good claim back on her line needing to be wary of players looking to rush in on her.

  Smith on the ball for Caister left travelling has Turner making a run into the left channel looking to pull in behind, threading the pass on, Tink reads it cutting the ball out for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Courtney Charlton defending inside the box for Caister as Sutton plays the ball into Hutchin right of goal. A corner for Dussindale & Hellesdon on the right the ball in defended by Beevor at the near post falls to Wetherall moving left but can’t find a way through. 

Bethany Turner fighting for the ball in the Caister attack (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Dussindale & Hellesdon regain possession in the middle Belton with the crossfield pass left to right for Hutchin, jinks inside her mark moving across the top of the Caister area before shooting her low strike saved by Beevor. Hutchin right on the attack inside for Sutton 20 yards out right side of the box looks to play it across to Brister moving in from the left, Maher getting the tackle in on her to clear the threat for Caister. 

  A free-kick to Dussindale & Hellesdon on the right as Hutchin is body checked by Tooke the set-piece 30 plus yards out. Brister over it flights a ball in to be attacked far post area, won and cleared by Caister captain, Hayley Muir. Hutchin is quick to nip in and win it back 30 yards out her shot taking a slight deflection on it’s way through to the keeper. Muir is then booked as she brings down Brister as she looks to accelerate away with the ball on the left. A pause for drinks before the free-kick is taken. Brister with a dangerous ball in across goal to the far side, Charlton getting her head on it for Caister good work to turn the ball up over her own crossbar for a corner kick. Charlton then defending from the corner as Dussindale & Hellesdon fire it in towards the near post area. Comes to Humphries up the line on the right to send a curling strike in towards goal swerving in front of Beevor the keeper is down well to lay claim to the ball.

   Caister struggling to get anything going up top getting hold of the ball in the middle placing a pass into an attack is proving difficult, Tink and Goodenough reading the ball well. Hutchin driving inside with the ball from the right, the pass fizzed into Sutton getting free central inside the area her shot sent goalwards, Beevor with a superb save instinct as she throws a leg out to block the ball deflect it out to the left, Brister back in across the six yard box Hutchin right after it with Charlton the defender doing well against her for Caister.

 The free-kick count rising another one for obstruction this one closer outside the area as Brister places the ball down for Dussindale & Hellesdon right of the D, curls a shot in her effort landing on the roof of the net. Weatherall getting on for Dussindale & Hellesdon angling a shot in from wide her strike palmed down by Beevor. 

 GOAL! A couple of minutes left to play in the 2nd half largely dominated by Dussindale and Hellesdon, they go on to extend their lead. Nobbs on for Wetherall through the middle sends it out to Brister on the left attacking turns inside and strikes the shot in on the angle rising for the top corner across goal Beevor dives in vain the ball smashing down off the crossbar over the line 3-0. 

Chelsea Brister extending Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead

  Pressing on from the restart Caister find no way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence, Goodenough out to Belton who passes on to Nobbs getting forwards plays the ball into Sutton’s feet as she drifts in left of the D, her shot pulled wide of the left post. 

 GOAL! Moments later Sutton goes on to score her hat-trick. Once again linking up with Brister breaking on down the left with the ball, her cross lifted in near side Sutton gets under the ball to head it in up over the keeper 4-0.

 A frustrating 1st half for Caister haven’t get going at all, Smith taking the ball on through the middle looking to link up with Turner outside the area playing a one two the final pass cut out by Kennett for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Beevor out to save bravely at Sutton’s feet as she looks to get onto the end of a Brister pass fed into the box from the left. Charlton doing enough at the back for Caister to stop Hutchin getting into a shooting position as Sutton sends the ball on for her right side.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Women 4-0 Caister FC Ladies 

 4-0 lead for Dussindale & Hellesdon in the League Plate Final. In control of the half from start to finish. Taking the lead in their very first attack seconds on the board the early goal clearly settling any nerves, whilst rocking their opponents. Caister never looking settled have struggled to get the ball into their attackers while keeping any meaningful possession, given away too easily has invited Dussindale & Hellesdon on in attack their movement causing problems. A mountain to climb if they are to find a way back into the tie in the 2nd half.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Lucy Wetherall

Caister look to have made a change at the start of the 2nd half, Melissa Anderson on. Caister to get the 2nd 45 underway. The sun making an appearance, the ball quickly lost as Belton closes in for Dussindale & Hellesdon out to Hutchin on the right on for Sutton trying to break into the box, Beevor racing out to close her down the pair colliding, nothing in it, as Muir clears the ball. Sutton down for a moment but is okay to continue.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Caister looking to get the ball into Turner, use her strength to battle her way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence, linking up with Smith out on the wing, Humphries steals in to win the ball back sends it up to Brister on the move left playing in forwards for Sutton her angled shot in low from 25 yards out wide at the near post.

  GOAL! 5 minutes into the 2nd half and Dussindale & Hellesdon go on to extend their advantage the ball fed out wide to Hutchin running on play drawn across to the right support from Sutton the cross is driven into the area straight to Brister free in front of goal, unmarked opens up her body to place the ball into the bottom corner 5-0.

Dussindale & Hellesdon with plenty of energy, just won’t click up top for Caister, Turner working hard on the ball finding no way through. Hills inside to Broughton, Tink halting progress for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Belton getting free on the right on to the top of the box the shot in down off the crossbar rebounding to the left Brister with the outside of her boot looking to turn it back in towards goal Beevor down at her near post the ball behind for a corner. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon midfielder, Georgina Belton

  Tink comes out to challenge, Turner as she is given the ball by Sheldrake on the right out for a throw in. Sutton on the attack into the box Maher on her stretching for the ball, Sutton turns to life her shot up over the bar. Dussindale & Hellesdon keeping the ball getting on with it at every opportunity. Changes for Caister with Hollis back on along with Kelly Allen. Charlton on the ball making a driving run through the middle for Caister challenged landing heavily a pause for treatment up gingerly. A change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Charlie Head coming on for Brister. Charlton off for Caister on comes Samantha Hunn. 

Molly Sims tackling for Caister FC Ladies

  Humphries winning the ball back off Allen high up the pitch shoots on the angle 25 yards out left side her effort racing wide across the Caister goal. Belton in the middle putting the ball on into Sutton in attack central lays it out to Head on the right drives on into the area, shooting the strike wide across the goal out at the far post. Sutton up on the right with Hutchin the ball into the box for Head her shot, charged down by Muir. 

Caister’s Kelly Allen

  Caister battling for possession, Allen and Anderson in the middle looking to send it forwards, Turner moving across the Dussindale & Hellesdon area. Hutchin attacking right cuts the ball inside to Weatherall on for Head in the box her angled strike low to the near post saved by Beevor the ball loose for a 2nd, Beevor dragging it back into her body with Sutton closing in.  Caister with the ball central up with King knocking it on for Turner moving right a powerful run getting into the box, falling back as she goes to strike the ball on the angle sends it over the bar. 

  Caister fighting for the ball in the middle now, Allen with Anderson, no way through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence. Anderson playing the ball out to Turner moving into the right wing drives on with the ball squaring a cross into the Dussindale & Hellesdon box, Cole diving forwards to push the ball away a good save with Hunn running in clear behind. King lifting it back into the box for Turner six yards out closed down the ball scrambled away. A double change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Kennett and Belton coming off on come Kari Kowalczyk an Ruby Wilson. Allen with the crossfield ball out to Turner in the right channel turning inside is tackled by Wilson at the back. 

 GOAL! The game moving into the final 15 minutes, the substitutes breaking up some momentum, Dussindale & Hellesdon find Hutchin out on the right again sends the ball inside for midfielder Nobbs up with play 25 yards out right of the D, shapes to shoot, the ball rising in towards goal, am behind it have to say I thought it was going over so did the crowd around me but no it drops down late to find it’s way in under the bar to bring up the 6th goal for Dussindale & Hellesdon’s number 6. 6-0!

Abbi Nobbs scoring Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 6th goal (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Caister make a change bringing Broughton back on for Smith. Play brought back for the foul with no advantage after Nobbs is upended in the centre. The ball played out to the right with Sutton up with Head put back to Wetherall top of the area sends it out to Kowalczyk on the left plays it back infield for Wetherall drives on by too much traffic ahead of her. Head taking the ball out to the left corner lifts a cross into the far post Sutton can’t get it down under control before the ball is launched clear. 

 Turner up the other end looking to get away on the right is stopped by Wilson in the corner. Muir looking to lift Caister make one last push as the game enters the final 5 minutes. Anderson off for Caister, Hills back on. Humphries up on the left forwards into Kowalczyk turns infield pushing the ball into Wetherall, attempts to lift it over the top into the box for Head but Beevor out to snatch it first. Head seeing the ball into her feet for Dussindale & Hellesdon outside the box moving central to right turning to send a shot wide across goal. 

Abby Hutchin

 A quadruple change for Dussindale in the closing minutes with Goodenough, Humphries, Wetherall and Sutton coming off for Kennett, Belton, Kirstie Rusted and Zuleika Lafitte. Broughton getting hold of the ball central almost through for Caister but stopped by Kennett. Sims with the pass on for Hunn left for Caister can’t quite reach it before the keeper can claim. Belton looking to get on for Dussindale & Hellesdon left, Maher defending in the box for Caister doing well to get a goal kick. Beevor out to clear as Rusted looks to burst on through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Women 6-0 Caister FC Ladies

Dussindale & Hellesdon with a strong performance from start to finish to win the Plate Final 6-0 scoring in the opening seconds and playing a high energy game through out never letting their opponents settle on the ball racing into a 4-0 lead at the break. A mountain for Caister to climb to try and get themselves back into the game 2nd half. An early goal 2nd half denting those hopes will be disappointed with their performance on the day taking the gloss off what has been a magnificent first season as Caister. Runners-Up in a cup final they were still smiling at the end getting to collect there Division Two Champions medals after the game promoted to Division One next season. Congratulations to Caister on their title success.

Caister FC Ladies, Norfolk Women’s Division Two Champions (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match today. Several good performances to choose from and isn’t easy to single one out. Firstly for Caister a special mention for goalkeeper Laura Beevor despite the score line pulled off a number of crucial saves to keep the score down. Bethany Turner up top worked hard without getting much reward for her efforts. For Dussindale & Hellesdon were solid throughout. Calista Tink strong at the back. Georgina Belton in midfield winning the ball playing some great passes forwards. Lucy Wetherall getting on from the middle to support the attack. Chelsea Brister dangerous on the left of attack always available for the pass. Abby Hutchin too on the right side her first attack setting the tone for the rest of the game strong throughout. The award though goes to striker Shanice Sutton scoring with her first touch of the game going on to get a first half hat-trick found some great positions and space in and around the box.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women winning the 2021/22 NWGFL League Plate (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Congratulations to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on winning the 2021/22 NWGFL Plate Final. 

  One final down one to go, a quick look at the 7’s final in between. My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details. Also for photographer Scott Grearhardy for the use of some of his pictures in the report. One more game left for Caister away to 3rd placed UEA FC Women with runners-up spot yet to be decided. 2 games for Dussindale & Hellesdon the first on Wednesday at The Nest welcoming 4th placed Thetford Town Ladies.

by Darren Gilham