Tag Archives: ERWFL Division One North

Match Report – Newmarket Town Women v Yaxley Phoenix Ladies

Sunday 9th October

ERWFL Division One North

A trip own the A11 this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from ERWFL Division One North with Newmarket Town Women taking on newly promoted Yaxley Phoenix Ladies.

 The regional leagues Division One North and South forming the 6th tier of the women’s football league, clubs ready to step up from the county leagues to further improve, grow and develop. Has been frustrating for the ERWFL who have for a number of season’s now been trying hard to get the 5th and 6th tiers they represent up to full capacity, ideally a 12 strong Premier Division with a Division One North & South (sometimes East and West) featuring 24 sides 12 in each. Looked like they had achieved this in the summer with a number of new sides applying for promotion only to see 4 existing sides fall away before the season started with one new side not entering in the end ultimately seeing the leagues reduced in size with an 8 strong Division One North and 9 in Division One South.

This has led to some frustration amongst clubs about lack of fixtures with the early rounds of the various county cup competitions and FA Women’s Cup affecting fixtures too at this time of the year. The ERWFL remains positive for it’s growth with more clubs planning on joining next season to hopefully get the numbers and stability that will go along way to improving and growing the game. Fakenham Town Ladies and Yaxley Phoenix Ladies new to Division One North this season.

Newmarket Town Women although still relatively new to the ERWFL themselves are one of the stalwarts of Division One North and will be hoping to build on a 3rd placed finish last season to go on to push for promotion to the Premier Division. Have strong competition for the title though with both St Ives Town Ladies and AFC Dunstable Ladies both relegated from the Premier Division last season looking to bounce back at the first attempt with Biggleswade United Ladies strong setting the early pace and Haverhill Town Women improving their squad over the summer. Results have been up and down at the start of the season for Newmarket having played 4 in the league winning 2 and losing 2 to lay in 5th spot coming into today’s game.

A club that prioritises youth bringing players up through the various youth sides with a Development squad geared up to producing players for the 1st team playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One. A number of today’s squad having come on through that pathway. A few new signings coming in with Ellie Desborough a local girl having been with Norwich City’s youth set-up previously returning having spent 3 seasons with Newmarket. Abbie Corbyn joining the winger having previously been at Thetford Town Ladies. Another young player returning to the club is 16 year old Liv Bradley previously with Cambridge City U16s is another local girl having also spent 4 years with Newmarket as a youth player, hitting the ground running with Newmarket having scored 4 goals in 4 appearances at the start of the season. 4 goals too for attacking midfielder Katie Spiers. 

Yaxley Phoenix Ladies new to the ERWFL joining this season having previously been Netherton United Ladies. Moving up to the 6th tier off the back of 2 very strong seasons in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One completing the league and cup double last season with a 100% record in the league. Largely due to the scoring prowess of attackers Yas Green an Emily Johnson scoring a magnificent 98 goals between them. Green with 57 of those has hit the ground running this season too scoring 4 from 5 appearances whilst Johnson has been on the scoresheet before moving to another club. Moving to Yaxley along with their development side a new beginning a great set-up to take the women’s side forwards. The double winning squad seeing some departures however with players not necessarily wanting the extra travel that comes with regional football. Further hampered todays with absentees and injuries meaning a few development squad players stepping up. 

Newmarket’s Tristel Stadium the venue for today’s game the state of the art artificial playing surface looking great in the October sun a pleasant day nice and bright dry with a slight breeze the sun beginning to fall behind one corner a potential problem later in the afternoon. A youth match taking place the kitchen and bar open serving hot food and drink. A covered seated stand with the changing rooms beyond on one side viewing all round the pitch that hosts several Newmarket sides.

Newmarket Town Women

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Kara Wayman, Liv Caffarelli (C), Sophia Yorko, Millie O’Dwyer, Faith Entwistle, Katie Spiers, Lidiya Mykhaylechko, Abbie Corbyn & Liv Bradley. Subs – Katie Hayes, Molly Agnew, Elle Desborough & Annabelle Herring.

Yaxley Phoenix Ladies

 Yaxley Phoenix Ladies starting XI – Amy Stanyon, Megan Strickland, Dita Upesjure, Carmen Giles, Zoe Shepherd, Isobel Boyer, Jess Perrin, Eleni Politis, Milly Ramm (C), Yas Green & Eva Coxon. Subs – Fatema Baratyan & Maddison Widger.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A change of ends prior to kick-off with Yaxley the side having to deal with the sun first half. A few missing for the visitors so too Newmarket with a couple of key players missing from their starting line up. It’s Yaxley to get the game underway wearing their away colours, orange shirts and socks with black shorts. Newmarket wearing Yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball played back into midfield for Isabel Boyer who in turn lays it back to her defence to send out to the left wing looking for Yas Green, dealt with by full back Holly Dryland for Newmarket.

  The hosts looking to get hold of the ball in midfield and drive forwards at the Yaxley defence, Liv Bradley surging forwards tackled by Yaxley’s Carmen Giles. The clearance long, captain Milly Ramm after it on the right, Dominika Szary rushing out of her area to clear for Newmarket. Newmarket pulled up for offside on the left the resulting free-kick put long into midfielder Jess Perrin outside the box looks to cushion her header down into the area, Sophie Yorko throwing out a leg to turn it away to the right for Newmarket. Attacking left a throw high up the pick sees  Bradley onto the ball turning inside a powerful drive taking her through the Yaxley defence heading for the area, goalkeeper Amy Stanyon rushing out to close her down sliding in with her feet to make the blocking challenge, throwing herself forwards to get her hand safely around the ball.

Yaxley Phoenix defender, Carmen Giles

  Dita Upesjure at left back for Yaxley getting the tackle in to deny Lidiya Mykhaylechko (I give myself a pat on the back every time I spell that without a RED line appearing) as she looks to get onto the end of a crossfield pass. Newmarket starting brightly taking the game to Yaxley getting players forwards looking to use the width, Bradley moving out to receive the ball. 

Yaxley Phoenix full back, Dita Upesjure

 GOAL! The back of the net found early in the game the warning signs there moments ago with Mykhaylechko pulling wide into space free to receive the ball should it be won in midfield players pressing the ball central won by Newmarket the pass clipped long out to the right side Mykhaylechko running onto it in behind moving central towards the box shooting low past the advancing keeper her strike bouncing off the base of the post and in across goal 1-0 six minutes played.

Newmarket’s opening goal scorer, Lidiya Mykhaylechko

  Newmarket quick to regain possession from the restart Millie O’Dwyer out to Kara Wayman left forwards for Abbie Corbyn, Bradley taking it on turning inside, a good tackle inside the box from Giles. Yaxley with a free-kick on half way Zoe Shepherd to play it long into the area towards the right post area, defended, Szary claiming the headed ball. Green getting hold of the ball on the left for Yaxley driving on before sending a crossfield ball up to the right, the offside flag halting the attack. 

Yaxley Phoenix’s Yas Green

  Wayman taking the ball on down the left wing for Newmarket a surging run on the ball rides a challenge keeping on her feet to stab a cross into the area looking for Bradley positioned on the penalty spot, just behind her looking to turn into her strike, Upesjure lunging in to make the block with her outstretched leg, the ball dropping down Bradley looking to dig out another opportunity lift it over Upesjure places it straight at the keeper. 

GOAL! From back to front Newmarket carve Yaxley open to add a 2nd goal, goalkeeper Szary kicking the ball upfield, Bradley taking it on as it drops across her 30 yards out a strong run battling her way through the opposition defence, heading for the D, Stanyon coming out to close the angle the striker taking the ball away to her right before cutting her shot back across the goal to make it 2-0. 

Liv Bradley on her way to scoring for Newmarket

  Another blow for Yaxley conceding a 2nd goal inside 15 minutes, look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball won back on the middle Boyer with Perrin fed on for Green making a central run escaping her marker to run for the area shoots from 20 yards out, her low strike on target, Szary down smartly to her left to make the save get her gloves behind the ball. The visitors with Green on the left winning a throw high from that a cross is whipped in across the top of the area defended by Newmarket captain, Liv Caffarelli, who then charges down the attempted return ball from the right. 

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

  Newmarket with lots off energy getting players forwards better rushing at the Yaxley defence looking to run through into the area. Eva Coxon up front for Yaxley turning the ball into the path of the advancing Perrin to the right, Caffarelli stepping out to put in the challenge for Newmarket. From another Newmarket offside Yaxley play a good set-piece ball up towards the top of the area, Coxon with Ramm getting the ball in towards goal, racing in low doesn’t trouble Szary. 

Eva Coxon looking to get the ball down for Yaxley Phoenix

  Dryland defending for Newmarket at the back as Yaxley come left Eleni Politis up with Green on the flank looking to make something happen. Dryland again in the right position inside the box to clear as Ramm fires a ball into the six yard box from the right. Green the outlet for Yaxley on the left looking to get thing’s going forwards her attempted diagonal ball seeing Coxon with a chance to run through central, Szary alert out of her area quickly to make the clearance. 

  Mykhaylechko coming on through the middle with Spiers the ball played through for Bradley to attack, Stanyon out of her box rapidly to clear for the visitors. Wayman with another powerful run on the left all the way to the by-line before giving away a foul, Ramm hurt needing treatment but is okay to continue. Spiers taking the ball off Entwistle in the middle driving on pulls the trigger from 20 yards out Upesjure throwing herself in making a superb block. Caffarelli forwards on the left crossing the ball inside for Bradley, looks to turn on the ball, Shephard close in making the blocking challenge.

Yaxley Phoenix captain, Milly Ramm challenging for the ball

  GOAL! The ball spinning out to the left, Wayman getting forwards to add support to Corbyn with Bradley moving out to the flank looking for the pass as players are drawn to the ball, the striker whipping her cross from the top of the area in across the six yard box where Mykhaylechko is stealing in far post unopposed to score a simple tap in to make it 3-0 on the half hour. 

 Bradley causing the Yaxley defence a number of problems coming out wide to get the ball into her feet and turn, Giles taking a knock as she goes into the challenge to slow her down. Messy at the back for Yaxley as Newmarket drop the ball over the top both Bradley and Mykhaylechko are in offside positions but don’t move for the ball as Corbyn races through a static defensive line caught high up the pitch to bare down on the box. Stanyon coming out to close her down doing well to get a leg in to block the ball the defence recovering then for Yaxley to clear as Newmarket fail to carve out a 2nd opportunity with the loose ball.

  GOAL! Yaxley attacking the ball won in the right channel by Caffarelli, Newmarket’s captain playing the ball forwards her well placed clearance finding Mykhaylechko racing on through right side to take the ball on turning inside into the area, closing in on the keeper, Stanyon diving attempting to get hold of the ball, Mykhaylechko taking the ball away from her to the right wide of goal inside the six yard box the angle against her nevertheless sends her strike back across goal to net a 1st half hat-trick 4-0. 

Lidiya Mykhaylechko, bearing own on goal before completing her 1st half hat-trick

  Yaxley on the back foot bring players on getting up and around the Newmarket penalty box putting the ball out to the right Ramm’s ball back inside sliced behind for a corner kick. Played long Newmarket get on the counter attack right side, Stanyon needing to come out of her box to clear the danger. Yaxley make a change bringing off Politis for Maddison Widger. Has been a frustrating first half for Yaxley summed up as Perrin’s forceful challenge as she comes back to help out the defence spins free into the path of Mykhaylechko on the right she races forwards squaring her cross into the six yard box for Bradley central struck on the turn, the shot running narrowly wide of the right post. 

  Shepherd carrying the ball out from the back looks to feed Coxon through in behind the Newmarket defence, Szary again out of her area to clear the threat. Her ball forwards putting Newmarket straight on the counter offensive with Bradley taking the ball forwards, Giles pushing her wide out to the left, Bradley evading the defender to get into the box, Stanyon though has come out to close the angle getting hold of the ball. Szary’s kick out’s from the back have been a feature of the game causing Yaxley some issues, Shepherd dealing with the latest with a firm header to get it back to her keeper to clear. 

Yaxley Phoenix Ladies goalkeeper, Amy Stanyon

 Corbyn with Wayman racing on left side the cross into the box for Bradley looking to see it across her and shoot pulls her effort wide of the far post. Giles pulling up with an injury a pause for treatment for the Yaxley defender. Newmarket finishing the half strong Spiers bringing the ball on through the middle moving left on for Wayman racing forwards travelling into the box shoots her angled drive straight at the keeper. 

Newmarket’s Kara Wayman

Half-time Newmarket Town Women 4-0 Yaxley Phoenix Ladies

  A dominant first half for Newmarket sees the hosts going into the changing rooms leading 4-0 at the break. Getting on the attack right from the start taking the game to Yaxley getting players on through the middle and out wide, scoring an early goal picked the defence apart at times to press the advantage to add a further 3 goals. Yaxley struggling to cope getting pulled out of position on the back foot making it very difficult to get anything going in attack themselves, Yas Green on the left their main outlet the ball though often coming straight back staying out on the pitch alot to discuss if they are to find a way back into the game 2nd half.

  The sun lower in the sky but with a bit of cloud around unlikely to pose an issue with Yaxley’s area now in the shade. The visitors making a change with Giles off, Fatema Baratyan on joining Coxon up front with Green dropping in at centre back. Newmarket also making a change with Katie Hayes on for Corbyn on the left side. The hosts to get the 2nd half underway. The ball put forwards to Hayes running forwards into the left channel, Green heading the ball clear for Yaxley.  Newmarket press up early on at the start of the 2nd half a cross flung into the box from the right dealt with by Ramm for Yaxley. 

Newmarket’s Katie Hayes

  GOAL! Newmarket have player up and around the Yaxley area quickly regain possession the ball back out on the right played inside knocked out to Spiers 25 yards out to the left of the D, catches her strike well sending a shot arching in back towards the far post to nestle in the back of the net extend Newmarket’s advantage 5-0. 

Katie Spiers putting Newmarket into a 5 goal lead

  Barely a minute gone in the 2nd half and Newmarket strengthen their lead a further blow to Yaxley but are determined to press forwards after the restart Perrin latching onto the ball some 30 yards out to the left of goal putting her foot through the ball, looping towards goal her effort cannoning down off the crossbar! 

Yaxley Phoenix midfielder, Jess Perrin

  Newmarket break on the left Spiers bringing the ball on knocked up for Hayes to chase she whips an inviting ball in along the top of the Yaxley area, Bradley racing in appears to be pushed over, however the Newmarket appeals are waved away as the ball is cleared away to the left. Strickland at the back with help from Boyer dealing with Hayes as the 2nd half substitute drives forwards up the left wing. Entwistle on the turn in the middle for Newmarket clipping a well placed pass into Mykhaylechko running on right side, opts for the early strike on the angle, Stanyon already on the move closing the ball down. 

Newmarket’s Katie Spiers with Yaxley’s Isabel Boyer

  Yaxley get the ball moving through the middle, Perrin working it on for Coxon the Baratyan, Caffarelli strong at the back to win the ball back for Newmarket. Green winning the ball at the back well for Yaxley as they look for a better 2nd half performance the ball knocked into the middle, Perrin moving forwards attempting to find Coxon, cut out by Yorko for Newmarket. Green intercepting the ball at the back for Yaxley forwards for Baratyan, attempts to lift it over the top for Coxon, Szary though advancing out of her box to clear.

Newmarket captain, Liv Caffarelli

 Stanyon proving a strong last line of defence for Yaxley as the keeper rushes out to slide in and charge down Bradley as the Newmarket striker spins in behind in the right channel. A corner for Newmarket on the right played in over the keeper, Caffarelli hooking it back in across goal Yaxley clear attempt to break, O’Dwyer winning the ball back for the hosts. Green winning the ball well at the back for Yaxley sending her clearance forwards sees Coxon onside left of the box, scuffs her shot however the chance gone as Szary safely gathers the ball.

   A triple change for Newmarket with the hour approaching with O’Dwyer, Mykhaylechko and Spiers coming off for Ellie Desborough, Molly Agnew and Annabelle Herring. Bradley is fouled by Shepherd top of the circle inside the Yaxley half. Hayes over the set-piece an ambitious effort as she goes for goal, connects with the ball well however her strike not too far over the crossbar. A few signs of encouragement for Yaxley in the 2nd half, Green going into the back line has make it tougher for Newmarket to get the ball in behind that in turn is seeing the ball won higher up the pitch with Perrin in particular looking to drive forwards with it. Yorko and Caffarelli so far reading the attempted forward passes well. 

Sophie Yorko winning the ball for Newmarket

  Shepherd doing well up against Agnew on the right of attack as she looks to get on the end of another superb kick upfield from Szary. Perrin picking up the ball inside the Newmarket half pushing forwards evading a couple of challenges before her progress is halted by Yorko top of the box the ball loose to the right, Ramm latching onto it curling it in towards goal, straight at Szary the keeper holding onto the ball. 

  Caffarelli fouls Perrin to the left of goal 30 yards out as she carries the ball on. Green over the set-piece as players come forwards, spots Shepherd stealing in unmarked into the box left of goal attempts to roll the ball into the defenders path, Shepherd not quite able to take it in her stride. Green making a difference at back for Yaxley plays with her heart on her sleeve cutting out a crossfield pass from Bradley over on the left that would have seen Agnew clear on the right. 

  Shepherd in to head the ball clear for Yaxley, Herring bringing it down in the middle lifting the pass forwards into Bradley central looking to turn, Green closing her down charging down her shot. Hayes screws a shot wide from 25 yards out as Agnew sends it forwards on the right. Hates back out on the left moments later spins in behind to send a cross into the box, Green just about cutting it out, Shepherd clearing behind her. 

Newmarket’s Molly Agnew

  Yaxley growing into the game feeling more confident 2nd half getting players on Boyer in for Perrin out to Ramm advancing on the right wing, sends a cross into the box Coxon on the penalty spot, Yorko putting in the bloc as she goes to shoot. Desborough in the centre for Newmarket playing a great ball out to Hayes on the left she cross fired into the box, skips up off the surface seeing Bradley miss her touch to cushion the ball towards goal. Bradley coming off with 20 minutes left on the clock with Corbyn back on Hayes sent up top to lead the attack 

   Yorko doing well in defence for Newmarket shielding the ball back to Szary as Coxon looks to get after it. Yaxley feeling they can get something from the game much more even in the 2nd half Newmarket defending a comfortable lead not committing as many forwards however. Perrin marauding forwards riding numerous tackles just can’t pick out an orange shirt around the box, both Yorko and Caffarelli intercepting. 

  Szary’s kick out from the back setting Corbyn racing away on the left the game stretched the wingers cross from the by-line going long across goal retrieved by Agnew wide right her looping cross back in Stanyon getting her gloves up to get her fingertips on the ball knocking it down far post quick to snatch it into her body with Corbyn ready to pounce. 

 Hayes comes close to adding a sixth for Newmarket as she is played in by Desborough in the middle right channel 30 yards out strikes the shot in towards goal, looked in but is narrowly over. 10 minutes left to play O’Dwyer back on for Newmarket replacing Dryland. Perrin getting onto the ball driving forwards forced right into the box, riding a tackle stays on her feet, the ball turned behind for a corner kick.

  GOAL! Green comes forwards to take the corner on the right players up into the box a packed six yard area, Green’s delivery perfect put in across the face of goal met by Shepherd at, twists her head to turn the ball in at the far post 5-1. Yaxley pulling a goal back in the 83rd minute.

Zoe Shepherd pulling a late goal back for Yaxley Phoenix

  The goal giving Yaxley renewed energy late in the game, Newmarket still with a 4 goal lead however. Perrin through the middle looking to thread the ball on for Widger breaking into the area right side the pass over hit. Perrin then latching onto a rushed clearance 25 yards out sending her strike over the bar. 

 

  The game moving into the final minute Yaxley looking to press the ball late on Baratyan up with Perrin a corner won on the right players coming forwards as Green sets the ball down another teasing ball in across goal, Szary getting a strong fist on it this time however to knock the ball high into the air, cleared out of the box the final whistle blowing before Yaxley can send it back in.

Full time Newmarket Town Women 5-1 Yaxley Phoenix Ladies

  A 5-1 win for Newmarket sees them jump from 5th to 2nd spot in the Division One North table level on points with leaders Biggleswade. A strong 1st half seeing the host race into an early lead before going on to secure a 4-0 advantage at the break. Getting players forwards stretching the Yaxley defence. Work for the visitors to do made changes at the break, Yas Green dropping into defence made them harder to break down at the back despite the early set back of conceding a 5th goal. Grew into the 2nd half getting the ball forwards Newmarket with a comfortable lead happier to sit back defending their box well for the large part even as Yaxley get forwards better ending the game strong scoring a goal, never settling for damage limitation wanting to get forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Not an easy one to choose certainly from a Newmarket point of view. For Netherton the stand out performer was Yas Green, Whether it be in attack first half on the left or as a stand in centre back in the 2nd half won some vital balls, a pinpoint delivery from the corner for Shepherd to score. Jess Perrin too with a strong game in midfield with some powerful runs on the ball, winning her fair share of tackles looking to create openings. Amy Stanyon too in goal played a large role in keeping the score line down coming out to close the ball down. For Newmarket, Liv Bradley was a handful in attack her movement causing the Yaxley defence problems aswell as some great touches to get her one step ahead of her opponents. Katie Spiers making several good runs from midfield. Lidiya Mykhaylechko taking her hat-trick well getting into space on the right her goals seeing Newmarket to victory. Dominika Szary’s distribution from the back was superb throughout, the award though comes down to the centre backs, Sophie Yorko making several strong challenges and interceptions is just edged out by her captain, Liv Caffarelli wasn’t much that got past her today led from the back with her ball winning and reading of forward passes.

  An enjoyable trip to the Tristel Stadium always a competitive game from the ERWFL good to catch up with some footballing friends. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Needham Market Women v Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

Sunday 6th February

ERWFL Division One North

  A trip down to Suffolk this Sunday to watch a game from ERWFL Division One North with leaders Needham Market Women taking on league newcomers Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses.

  7 sides competing in ERWFL Division One North this season. Is a very young league in terms of the sides competing in it with Newmarket the old hands only joining the ERWFL in 2018. 3 newcomers too this season in Biggleswade United Ladies, Whittlesey Athletic Ladies and Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses. 

 Needham Market Women joining the ERWFL in 2019, were a fast emerging force within women’s football in Suffolk that has seen Ipswich Town Women dominate for several years now. The game in Suffolk needing to grow, Needham Market very much embracing their women’s side within the clubs set-up. 2 county cup final appearances already they will be hoping to make it a 3rd having reached the semi-finals once again this time Ipswich not entering a side. Hold a strong lead at the top of the ERWFL Division One North table losing just one of their 8 matches played so far. In fact should results go their way today they could even clinch the title. The best defensive record in the league it’s their goals scored that has set them apart with Needham Market having 4 out of the 5 top goal scorers . Lina Nagib with 23 goals from 15 played, Molly Hall 18 from 10, Ellie Rossiter has 15 from 13 played with Lois Balfour netting 14 times so far from 15 played. Looking strong for the title and with it promotion to the Premier Division.

  Below Needham Market it is a highly competitive tussle for 2nd spot in the table, with just 5 points separating the sides place 2nd down to 6th. Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses right in the middle of the battle. The Bedfordshire side the newest of the lot formed just the season before this, assembling a strong squad with plenty of experience at this level and above. Joined BHWGFL Division One. Covid disrupting that season but opportunities for progression as the ERWFL opened it’s application pool wider to attract new sides. Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses moving into the regional set-up. A good start beating fellow newcomers Biggleswade 3-2 went on to lose there next 3 in league and cup before bouncing back with a 2-0 home win against Needham Market. Since then results have been up and down 4 wins and 5 defeats so far to sit 4th 2 points off 2nd spot. Also through to he semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup where they will face fellow league side Biggleswade both looking to reach their first final.

  Bloomfields the venue for today’s game home of all Needham market’s sides. The ground has grown along with the women’s setup since I first started following them. The 3G pitch with a large viewing area and small stand on one side beyond that the changing rooms and cafe above serving hot food and drinks. A balcony all round the top tier allowing for an eagles eye view of the pitch i was tempted to stay up there watch the game safe from the inclement weather, but I prefer being on the side lines and decided to take my chances. The weather already putting pay to the planned game I had several good alternatives and this an opportunity to see two sides I’ve yet so far been unable too. Heavy rain overnight, pretty gloomy with the threat of more rain a windy too the 3g pitch providing little protection from the elements.

Needham Market Women

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Danielle Clarke, Nicole Pannifer, Niamh Thomas, Ele Catchpole, Jodie Sharpe, Nicole Henderson (C), Abbie Fisher, Mia Etheridge, Lina Nagib & Molly Hall. Subs – Eloise Ward, Lois Balfour Jo Brawn & Jessica Marriot.

Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses starting XI – Charlotte Cooper, Freya Opperman, Toni Mitchell, Georgia Hall, Charlotte Bedford (C), Cerys Edwards, Kim Mulgrew, Laura Taylor, Laura Simpson, Elena Lancaster & Giselle Randall. Subs – Rebecca Vass, Georgia Edwards, Jess Greaves & Jess Katsinas. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Needham Market to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing red shirts with black shorts and red socks. Wootton Blue Cross lined up opposite wearing blue shirts fading in shade to the waist, blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence is put out to the right Nicole Pannifer on for Ellie Rossiter attacking up the flanks she has support from Mia Etheridge the pair exchanging passes before Wootton Blue Cross full back, Freya Opperman puts in the tackle on Rossiter to put the ball out for a throw in.

Rossiter recieving the ball off the throw in shifts round her marker getting into the box striking a shot on the angle rising but caught comfortably by Wootton Blue Cross keeper, Charlotte Cooper. Needham Market making a positive start coming on with the ball Ethridge central laying it on for Lina Nagib in the left channel, cuts it back across the top of the area aiming to pick out Etheridge who has continued her run, she is closed down by Wootton Blue Cross captain, Charlotte Bedford the ball knocked back to Needham Market’s captain Nicola Henderson in midfield, Cerys Edwards challenging her to regain possession for the visitors.

Needham Market’s Lina Nagib

   Needham Market with a crossfield ball to find Nagib left knocked down for Molly Hall 25 yards out goes to shoot her effort charged down. The hosts are moving the ball quickly getting players forwards the wind is strong blowing across the pitch Needham Market running into it 1st half. Giselle Randall leading the attack for Wootton Blue Cross sees the ball into her feet twists playing it out to Laura Simpson free on the left, spots the run for Elena Lancaster over on the right attempts to put the diagonal ball over the top however the wind catches it taking it out of play before Lancaster can chase it down. 

Wootton Blue Cross attacker, Giselle Randall

   Henderson fouled on halfway a free-kick for Needham Market, with Pannifer moving forwards right side, out to Rossiter inside to Abbie Fisher opens up her body looking to thread it in behind for Rossiter, the flag going up against her. Wootton Blue Cross with a change out of nothing as the ball is cleared from the back the wind catching it sending it on bouncing awkwardly for the Needham Market defence, don’t deal with it as Randall steals through into the box left of goal onto it striking the ball goalwards, Danielle Clarke coming to narrow the angle diving to her right full stretch to save turning the ball wide for a corner kick.

  Wootton Blue Cross come right Kim Mulgrew on to Lancaster 25 plus yards out on the angle takes on the shot, wind assisted the ball racing across the area wide of the far post. The wind not helping Wootton Blue Cross in attack at all any through ball having too much on it seeing a good attack go to waste. Fisher plays the ball through for Nagib breaking clear of the defence left side, Cooper comes out to close her down hesitates for a split second as she leaves her area Nagib striking the ball against her spins up high into the air dropping behind Cooper wide of goal Nagib willing it to fall, but by the time it does the visitors have regrouped in defence closing her down.

Needham Market defender, Niamh Thomas

  Wootton Blue Cross come right Lancaster inside for Randall sees the ball cross her body 25 yards out turning into the shot the ball looping up but dropping straight into Clarkes arms. Rossiter frustrated as she is flagged offside with the hosts mounting a quick counter offensive. Rossiter posing Wootton Blue Cross a problem on the right of attack as she drives forwards with the ball laying it inside for Hall who spins it back into Rossiter’s path as she arrives into the box shooting puts the ball straight into the keeper.

Needham Market captain, Nicola Henderson

   Henderson with a powerful run through the middle, keeping hold of the ball pushed on into Hall’s feet the striker releasing it to the right as Rossiter gets in behind, just a split second too early the flag raised once again. Rossiter is linking up well with Pannifer on the right team mates at Ipswich previously Cooper though up to the edge of her area quickly to snatch up the ball before Rossiter can take advantage. Etheridge is pulled down attacking on the right a free-kick 25 yards out, Fisher over it sends in a cross towards the far post attacked, Hall up to meet it a glancing header the attempt wide.

Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses, Laura Simpson

   Wootton Blue Cross break the ball fed on through the middle for Randall escaping into the left channel, Clarke reading it quickly out of her box to clear. The visitors keep possession spreading play to the right a shot from distance narrowly wide of the near post. A spell of pressure for Wootton Blue Cross, Randall out to Lancaster right her cross into the are headed clear by Ele Catchpole. Hall getting hold of the ball out left into the corner puts in a cross along the six yard box dropping to Rossiter far post her shot blocked by Hall. Needham Market win a free-kick wide left inside the Wootton Blue Cross half after Jodie Sharp is upended. The delivery into the box cleared comes straight to Henderson central 20 yards out her driven shot charged down by Lancaster. 

  GOAL!  Needham Market build well through the middle numbers on the ball into Pannifer right threads it through to Rossiter in behind taking the ball into the box for the top corner wrapping her foot around the ball connects well with a rising shot power behind it Cooper with the slightest to touches can’t keep it out 1-0. Needham Market opening the scoring midway through the 1st half.

Ellie Rossiter fires Needham Market into the lead

  Needham Market up on the right a throw won into Etheridge has support from Pannifer the cross lofted into the area headed away by Bedford. Opperman in to tackle Rossiter to prevent the cross as Niamh Thomas plays a long ball to her from the back. Lancaster moving to the left as Simpson looks to release her Henderson comes sliding in with a strong tackle to win the ball. 

  GOAL! Wootton Blue Cross with a quick reply to pull the scores level once more. Pressure on the Needham Market defence Randall in control of the ball central 25 out plays it to Lancaster right she lays it into the area Randall after it left of goal, Clarke down bravely at her feet the ball blocked scramble away, out to the right side Needham Market don’t clear possession with Taylor right of the D takes on the shot a low strike angled back across the keeper to roll into the bottom corner 1-1. 

Laura Taylor scoring the equaliser for Wootton Blue Cross

  Randall is making a nuisance of herself in attack for Wootton Blue Cross back to tackle Henderson the ball rolled back to Edwards she looks to play it forwards, the swirling wind however as it has before giving the attacks too much to do to chase it down. Rain falling too falling back to the cover under the balcony to keep the notepad dry. Nagid striding forwards with the ball left side checks inside top corner of the area letting loose a shot driven it straight at and safely held by Cooper. 

 Wootton Blue Cross doing their best to get to grip with the conditions putting some pressure on the Needham market defence coming right the ball crossed into the penalty spot Randall after it saved at the feet of the keeper before being scrambled away for a corner. A change for the visitors with Rebecca Vass coming on to join the attack with Edwards coming off. Etheridge getting into the box for Needham Market winning a corner off the keeper. Played in central headed on by the defence out to the left. Wootton Blue Cross break down the right Vass travelling with the ball her cross goes long out of play beyond the far post.

   Is a good contest between Opperman and Rossiter as Needham market attack on the right Pannifer sending Rossiter on before the full back lunges in with the tackle. Needham Market send the ball up to Etheridge right side of the area cushions down a header to put the ball into Nagib central she in turn lays it out to Sharp looking to go clear on the left, Simpson tacking back well to challenge and get possession back for the visitors. Conditions are really poor the swirling wind and rain showers making it bitterly cold. 

Rebecca Vass

  Vass on the ball for Wootton Blue Cross spins it out to Simpson on her right takes on the shot early looking to strike a looping shot up over the keeper. Not enough on it falls early straight into Clarke’s arms. A chance for Rossiter up top for Needham Market as she is put clear though the middle by Fisher, one on one with the advancing keeper waits for Cooper to commit taking the ball around her to the left, looking to drill the ball into an open goal, Opperman has recovered superbly however having gone with her putting a foot in to take the ball away from her.

Freya Opperman back to defend denying Rossiter

  The clock ticking down in the 1st half, Wootton Blue Cross mount an attack piling players forwards the ball fed through the centre out to Randall peeling away left top of the area on the angle attempts to use the outside of her boot to put the ball inside for Lancaster, Henderson back there to defend the ball back with Randall her shot charged down by Thomas. The half-time whistle blowing as Rossiter is flagged offside one final time.

   Half-time Needham Market Women 1-1 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

  All square at the break the sides drawing 1-1. Played in difficult conditions. Needham market starting brightly on the attack getting players forwards taking the game to Wootton Blue Cross. Creating chances pressuring the ball high and looking to break in behind the offside trap sprung on a few occasions. Ellie Rossiter putting the hosts in front midway through the half. Wootton Blue Cross responding well pressing the ball in the final 3rd and pulling level quickly. Took a while to get used to the condition the wind at there backs making it run on t attack making timing passes extremely hard. All in all an even contest with conditions unlikely to improve.

  No changes as far as I can tell for either side at the break, Needham Market opting to stay out on the field during half time the sun trying to break through the clouds but plenty of grey still around as Wootton Blue Cross kick off the 2nd half kicking into the wind. Needham market immediately press the ball getting onto the Wootton Blue Cross defence to hustle the ball in the final 3rd prevent their opponents breaking out in attack. 

  GOAL! Needham Market’s pressing starting to the 2nd half brings an early rewards as the hosts attack Fisher 20 out right of the D with a ball knocked on into the box isn’t cleared properly Hall latching onto it right of the D striking the low shot along the ground across the keeper to find the bottom corner 2-1.

Molly Hall putting Needham Market back into the lead

GOAL! A perfect start to the 2nd half is make even batter as Needham Market quickly add a 3rd goal. Nagib regaining possession in the middle on to Etheridge  she plays a good diagonal pass out to Sharp on the move on the left wing using the wind to her advantage making an already speedy player look even quicker using its momentum to take the ball to the by line lays it back up to Hall waiting for it top corner to lift in a cross along the D to fall to Henderson far side she brings it down striking a fantastic shot up over the keeper into the goal beyond 3-1. 

Nicola Henderson making it a quickfire double for Needham Market

  A great start to the 2nd half for Needham Market 2 quickfire goals to go 2 goals in front. Wootton Blue Cross come right side Lancaster tripped as she brings the ball on a free-kick 22 yards out right of the D, Vass over it goes for goal her effort high over the bar. Sharp caught out by the offside flag left side as Hall attempts to flick a crossfield pass onto her in attack. Fisher central winning the ball forwards to Rossiter right looks to go on Opperman forcing her to stay wide sliding in to put the ball out for a throw.

  The weather’s changeable to say the least getting very dark a rainbow isn’t always a good sign you know a storm is on the way. Opperman allowed to get up the pitch left side a high cross into the area, Randall waiting for it to drop, Henderson back to deal with it for Needham Market. Opperman over a free-kick for Wootton Blue Cross to the left of the D 25 yards out struck low finds its way through to goal Clarke though right behind it. 

  Taylor comes right for Wootton Blue Cross her cross cut out by Henderson, Taylor has another go the ball back with her this time deflected behind for a corner kick. The ball defended at the near post comes back to Mulgrew another cross played into the six yard box Needham Market scrambling it away. Mitchell gets up on the right with the ball for Wootton Blue Cross her cross squared into the area over Randall on the penalty spot falls to Taylor beyond turns the ball goalwards, Clarke right behind it to save. 

Elena Lancaster

  Sharp on the move with the ball on the left all the way for Needham Market turning into the box, Hall comes back to put in a strong but fair tackle. Simpson and Vass combine out on the right for Wootton Blue Cross the ball crossed into the area Taylor the target, Thomas dealing with it for Needham Market to clear. The wind has gotten stronger is bitter out there. Cooper out to the top corner off her area to block Rossiter’s stab on as she is played on by Pannifer.

Needham market’s Nicole Pannifer

  Changes for Needham Market, off come Nagib, Thomas and Hall off on come Jo Brawn, Eloise Ward and Lois Balfour. The hosts with a corner kick on the right taken short before the cross is cut out deflected behind for a 2nd corner this time Wootton Blue Cross win it and break quickly Clarke needing to come hurtling out of her area to clear the ball. A change for Wootton Blue Cross with Jess Greaves coming on for Taylor. 

Charlotte Cooper tipping the ball away

 Henderson with a shot off the crossbar for Needham market as the cross comes into her left of goal from the right. The weather horrible Needham market with a corner on the left the ball hanging up in the wind dropping dangerously far post Cooper fouled as she attempts to claim it. Appeals for a penalty (mainly from the crowd) as Brawn is down in the box after a coming together with Cooper nothing doing. Winds strong now anything not anchored down shifting. Needham Market come left Sharp lifting the ball over the top looking for Balfour the wind though taking it away from her.

Pretty nasty out there

  A double change for Wootton Blue Cross with Lancaster and Simpson off for Jess Katsinas and Georgia Edwards. Really terrible out there now wind and rain, hail too, rubber from the pitch is blowing up onto my notepad. Difficult to play, Sharp off for Needham Market on comes Jessica Marriot. Pannifer on the left combining with brawn the pass back infield to Pannifer left of the D 20 out her shot blocked by Mulgrew. Getting very dark out there the clock ticking down.

  GOAL! Needham Market regain possession central Etheridge on for Fisher 20 yards out right of the D, strikes the ball goalwards pace behind it Cooper can’t reach it as it flies over her and into the back of the net 4-1.

Abbie Fisher adds a 4th for Needham Market

  Needham Market have been strong in the 2nd half the ball won in midfield Henderson out to Rossiter drives on Opperman once again sliding in to take the ball away for a throw. Pressing on late in the game Fisher opening her body to release Balfour on the right puts a cross in along the area out to Brawn left side looks to hit it on the run first time slices it wide. 

  The final whistle blows, Thomas who’s taken over flag duties from Balfour in the 2nd half has had enough and makes a hasty retreat to a warm and more importantly dry changing room as Needham Market celebrate a win that leaves them on the cusp of winning the Division One North title.

Full time Needham Market Women 4-1 Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses

 Honours even after the 1st half it was a devastating start to the 2nd half that saw Needham Market take control of the game scoring two quickfire goals to lead 3-1 at the start of the half. Were in control as condition grew worse, extremely difficult to play in towards the end. Wootton Blue Cross battling well in the 1st half despite a positive start from the hosts the wind seeing through ball runs on making it difficult responded well to falling a goal behind. Were undone at the start of the 2nd half and struggled to get back into it from there. By my reckoning Needham Market need one win from there final 3 games to ensure the title. That could be in a fortnights time at home to Haverhill Rovers, next weekend a stern test against Premier Division side Luton Town Ladies away.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, it’s another tricky one but of course a few performances of note to mention first. For Wootton Blue Cross, Freya Opperman had her hands full with Rossiter for much of the game preventing a number of crosses ad denying her a goal scoring opportunity. Giselle Randall with a handful for the Needham Market defence at the back battling to win the ball and fashion chances for herself and her teammates. Elena Lancaster getting into some good positions throughout the game. For Needham Market, Ellie Rossiter was a constant threat on the right a good contest with Opperman getting into a number of good goal scoring positions opening the scoring. Mia Etheridge showing good intent going forwards taking the ball to Wootton Blue Cross and looking to set up others. Today’s award though goes to Needham market’s captain Nicola Henderson a strong performance in midfield winning the ball, and both tracking back to help the defence and get forwards to support the attack a superb strike to make it 3-1.

  A rearranged fixture but a great opportunity to see two more sides in action. Appreciate the help with the team details at short notice. An entertaining game (expect little else from the ERWFL these days) albeit I could have done without the weather, was bitter out there.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Haverhill Rovers Ladies v Biggleswade United Ladies Red

Sunday 5th September

ERWFL Division One North

 A trip down to South West Suffolk this Sunday afternoon to take in a game from the ERWFL Division One North, with Haverhill Rovers Ladies hosting league newcomers Biggleswade United Ladies (Red).

 The regional set-up representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid. Set 5 the ERWFL Premier Division, below that is set six in the East of England split into two Division One’s, North and South. The ultimate aim for the FA to see the ERWFL reach it’s full compliment of 3 leagues with 12 sides in each. To that end and with the COVID outbreak seeing some readjustment to the pyramid the ERWFL family has see 8 new sides join Division One, split evenly between North and South. In the South section come Essex sides, Billericay Town Women Development and Barking FC Women with Cheshunt FC Women and Herts Vipers joining from Hertfordshire. Cambridgeshire side Whittlesey Athletic Ladies along with Bury Town Ladies of Suffolk join an 8 strong Division One North with two new comers from Bedfordshire, Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses and Biggleswade United Ladies (Reds).

The growth of the ERWFL is sadly tempered by the withdrawal of two sides who were previously well established within the ERWFL, both struggling for numbers during the close season, Peterborough North Star Ladies from the Premier Division and Histon Ladies who would have lined up in Division One North both folding their first teams. Both will continue within the Cambridgeshire County league as they look to rebuild and hopefully both will be able to re-join the ERWFL in the not too distant future.

Without Histon the ERWFL Division One North is a fresh faced league with Newmarket Town Women being the most experienced at this level joining in the 2018/19 season. Needham Market Women and Cambridge City Ladies Development both joining 2 season’s ago.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies making up the 8 sides contesting the league this season relative newcomers to the ERWFL themselves having joined last season. Their debut season in the ERWFL of course disrupted by the COVID pandemic will be hoping for a clear run this time around. Formed just two season’s before that rapidly moving through the Cambridgeshire league before applying for promotion. The pandemic halting their development as it has so many others. Haverhill have two senior women’s sides with Haverhill Rovers Ladies Community playing in the Cambs Women’s Division Three this season. A good blend of experienced and young players the squad further bolstered with the signings of Ali Wright who can operate comfortably as an outfield player more so as a goalkeeper in recent seasons. Amy Round comes to Haverhill having previously been with Cheshunt. Have played just the one league game to date and got off to a poor start with a 6-0 home loss to Cambridge City Ladies Development that though is their only game to date with last weekends fixture called off.

A rapid rise up the league pyramid too for Biggleswade United Ladies only formed a couple of seasons ago when Biggleswade United showed an keen interest in setting up a women’s side. Beds & Herts Division Three side Shefford Town & Compton Ladies the base for the new beginning. Good player recruitment from the off saw the new Biggleswade United Ladies side get off to a strong start in Division Three before the pandemic curtailed the season. Bumped up to Division One the story continued but alas with the ongoing pandemic another season was finished early. During the close season the FA inviting any clubs that wished it at county level to apply for the regional set-up. Biggleswade’s application successful seeing them climb two leagues again to reach set 6 of the pyramid. 3 matches played so far got off to a great start with a 3-1 win at home to Newmarket Town Women since then has been back to back defeats both by a narrow margin going down 3-2 away to follow promoted side Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses and most recently a 2-1 loss away to league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development.

 A big jump up and the club has responded in kind giving the women’s set-up full backing, a 2nd Biggleswade United Ladies side the Blues set to make their debut in Beds & Herts Division One this season. The ERWFL side now the Reds. Luke Molloy coming to the club to oversea both teams is joined by Ashley Pead who was very successful in his time with ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Dunstable Women as he helped to turn the clubs fortunes around his spell ending with a Bedfordshire County Cup Final appearance. Luke Molloy too with experience coaching in the ERWFL Premier Division with Colney Heath Ladies last season, Stevenage Juniors before that. Have brought in players with Premier Division experience, one too with FAWNL experience, Amy Butler like Wright for Haverhill a very good keeper in her own right but can operate outfield too.

  The New Croft the venue for today’s game. Previously Haverhill Rovers Ladies have plied their trade on the 3G pitch set behind the main stadium and community building. This season they will be playing on the main grass pitch, a quality looking pitch offering good width. A small covered seated stand on one side with the clubhouse and kitchen behind. Busy today with a Subbuteo tournament also taking place. The sprinklers on giving the grass a good watering before the game. Newsflash a bright and sunny day September starting off on a positive note after a pretty dull August. A warm one drinks breaks will be required.

 

   Haverhill Rovers Ladies starting XI – Ali Wright, Melissa Townson, Julie Brown, Abi Head, Amy Evans, Charlotte Westrope, Stacey Roper (C), Kayleigh Steed, Hollie Turner, Olivia Dunne & Georgia England. Subs – Keira Ball & Amy Round.

  Biggleswade United Ladies starting XI – Joshua Fitch, Helen Spencer, Amy Butler, Ashley Emerton, Tasmine Gentle, Jodie Molloy (C) Megan Molloy, Kayleigh Gray, Tashai Simms, Charlene Moreton & Tayla Murray. Subs – Kendal O’Connor, Sophie Norman & Alex Bush.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

  Ironically the Reds are in blue this afternoon as Haverhill too play in an all red kit. Biggleswade with blue shirts and socks with black shorts a change of ends seeing the visitors kick off the 1st half. The high sun over the clubhouse a potential factor for goalkeepers and defenders to consider. The grass watered well before kick-off unlikely to be a factor in the heat. The ball played back to the defence Biggleswade look to spread play wide to Tashai Simms on the left. Haverhill’s Melissa Townson at full back moving in quickly to close her down on half way. The centre of the park congested as players from both side move in rapidly to close down each other neither side making much headway in the opening minutes.

Ashley Emerton clearing up at the back for Biggleswade

  Haverhill forcing Biggleswade to play the ball all the way back to their goalkeeper, Joshua Fitch to send upfield for striker Tayla Murray to try and bring under control, Amy Evans in on her to nudge the ball into captain Stacey Roper central, takes it on before Megan Molloy puts in the tackle the ball out with Amy Butler at right back brings it on for Biggleswade before sending a diagonal ball high towards the top of the area, Murray the target goes beyond her Simms beyond left of the D goes for the ball the sliding block put in the ball deflected behind for the first corner of the game. 

  The delivery from the left in towards the top of the box attacked sliced behind another corner conceded over on the right. Fired in head height near post his headed on into the centre, turned goalwards the ball rising up over the bar to land on the roof of the net. Biggleswade starting to gain some momentum finding space on the flanks players drawn over to Simms who is linking up well with Charlene Moreton in attack, space for Kayleigh Gray on the opposite side to exploit. Kayleigh Steed winning the ball for Haverhill central clipping a pass forwards central for Olivia Dunne to attack, Ashley Emerton out from the back line well putting in the challenge to regain possession for Biggleswade. Sends it long for Gray on the right space to run into his a very quick player bursting forwards controlling as she reaches the by-line and flashes a cross high into the six yard box, Ali Wright with a confident high catch. 

  Roper taking the ball into her feet central on for Dunne who returns the pass as Roper advances sees Georgia England making a left channel run sends the pass on for her. Trying to bring the ball inside as she reaches the box, Butler steps in to make the tackle for Biggleswade. 

  GOAL! The visitors starting the game well capitalise with the opening goal inside 8 minutes. Play drawn over to the left off attack as Megan Molloy plays the ball out to Simms in the wing, Murray and Moreton rushing forwards to provide support near side the ball is instead played long diagonally into the box picking out Gray in an advanced position free at the top of the six yard box right of the goal, strikes the ball hard on the angle, little time for Wright to set herself falling as she attempts to make the save can only  look on helpless as the shot deflects of her to strike the back of the net 0-1.

Kayleigh Gray opening the scoring for Biggleswade

 

   Simms and Gray out wide have the Haverhill defence on the back foot, as the ball is won in the middle competitive between Steed and Roper and Megan and Jodie Molloy the ball put up to Murray back to goal outside the D knocks it down to Moreton on her left she spots Gray with another burst of pace stealing into the box, striking the 1st time shot on the angle, Wright in goal is right behind it to make the save. 

Megan Molloy playing the ball for Biggleswade

  Gray’s pace a real asset for Biggleswade in attack an outlet the play spread out to her checks inside to put a cross into the advancing Megan Molloy her shot dragged wide of the far post from 20 yards. Steed brings the ball on for Haverhill lifting it up the right for England to chase, Helen Spencer getting across the attacker shielding the ball for keeper Fitch to clear. Haverhill’s England manages to get in behind on the left going to the corner checks her run cutting back inside moving into the box looks to line up a curling effort but closed down quickly by Emerton ends up pulling her effort wide of the near post.

  Simms carrying the ball on left side puts it inside to Murray outside the box, Hollie Turner sliding in for Haverhill making the tackle, the ball loose deflected inside the box Moreton going after it with Simms, Townson doing really well defending for Haverhill sliding into to tackle wins a goal kick.

  GOAL! The respite is short lived as Biggleswade are quick to regain possession in the middle Molloy out to Simms has Moreton with her on the flank the pair linking up making ground, Simms put in to make a charge from the left into the box, is tripped as she enters the area, the referee blowing up a penalty kick awarded. Moreton placing the ball on the spot, strikes it hard and high into the top right hand corner to double the lead 0-2.

Charlene Moreton with a confidently struck penalty doubles Biggleswade’s lead.

18 minutes played and Biggleswade make their first change bringing on Sophie Norman at right back for Butler. A good start to the game from Biggleswade have their opponents on the back foot moving the ball quickly and getting in first to win the ball. The visitors with a free-kick on halfway left side play moved over to the left Norman with space to run into on for Gray to chase has a lot of ground to cover but does well to hook a cross in from the by-line probably catches her teammates out as no one moves to attack the ball Wright up to claim it unchallenged.

Biggleswade’s Tayla Murray

   Simms dribbling the ball shifts inside pushing it into Murray top of the area left side, attempts to bring it down into her feet wanting to turn into the shot, Julie Brown in to close her down tackling well for Haverhill in defence. This game is being played at a really high tempo both sides consuming alot of energy in the sunshine Roper strong on the ball moving forwards is clipped as she releases England ahead of her, nothing doing and play is brought back for the free-kick for Haverhill. Evans to play the ball into the box right side attacked by Roper up with Spencer not sure who got the touch to send it in towards goal but Fitch reacts smartly getting a glove up to turn the ball wide and behind for a corner. Tasmine Gentle defending from the corner for Biggleswade possession back with Haverhill but the defence steps up will to catch their slower reacting opponents offside.

Haverhill captain, Stacey Roper

   Play pauses for both sides to take on fluids. Biggleswade restarting where they left off on the attack the ball closed down well in the final 3rd out to Gray left side jinks left then right before lifting it square into the top of the area, Murray going for it a 50/50 challenge the defected ball rising towards goal, Wright holding onto it well back on her line. Simms rapid down the left up against Townson, goes inside Townson reading it diving in to tackle win the ball back. Murray central chips it right to Gray her touch taking it into the corner wriggles free of her marker to come inside feed it back into the top of the box Moreton going to strike it first time, Brown sliding in to make the block. The loose ball running to Simms on the left gathering it into her feet shifts then blasts a shot in on the angle, Wright across her goal mouth down at her near post to make the save.

Haverhill goalkeeper, Ali Wright

Biggleswade with a free-kick 25 yards out on the right fired into the area far side Moreton onto it brings it down, Brown in to close her down doesn’t let her get a shot away. For a moment the break is on Steed carrying the ball on through the middle out to England left side, comes back inside looking to tee it up for Steed central, hasn’t read it however as Biggleswade captain Jodie Molloy comes back to take the ball get another attack flowing for the visitors. Roper getting hold of the ball forwards for Dunne to go after, Emerton stepping out of the back line again to intercept. 

Olivia Dunne attacking for Haverhill

  Steed over halfway riding a challenge plays England in on the left in behind for once draws Fitch out to her committing the keeper to a save going to ground knocks it beyond her moving in on goal six yards out the Biggleswade defence getting plenty of bodies back has little to aim at plants her strike into the side netting. Roper with a powerful run as she gathers the ball into her body 25 yards out driving on into the box hits a shot in towards goal pace on the ball, Fitch right behind it gloves the ball down comfortably.

Biggleswade goalkeeper, Joshua Fitch

Biggleswade reintroduce Butler swapping places with Norman again.  Haverhill starting to find some joy in the final 3rd as the first half draws to a close. Roper pushing on getting hold of the ball, Steed winning it central a good passage of play sees Evans  lift it on for Roper up to Dunne back to goal lays it back to her captain who spots England moving to the left a tough ball to play gets it into England but before she can turn is closed down by 3 Biggleswade defenders. Simms coming off for Biggleswade, Kendal O’Connor coming on left side.  Pushing on a throw high on the left Biggleswade’s Moreton 20 yards out sees the ball down turning inside flashes it out to Butler free high on the opposite side struck first time Butler’s effort is sliced wide. 

Amy Butler bringing the ball on for Biggleswade

  Westrope comes on with the ball for Haverhill inside for Turner then Steed lifted on for Dunne, it’s Emerton again stepping out of defence well to make a vital interception. Haverhill finishing the half well Brown sliding in strongly on Murray, the last chance of the half goes to the visitors Megan Molloy left channel sending a diagonal ball low into the box right side for Moreton, lines up a strike looking to put it back across the keeper, is also past the far post.   

Half-time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 0-2 Biggleswade United Ladies Red

  A strong first half performance from Biggleswade sees them leading 2-0 at the break. Started the game well getting on the front foot Simms and Gray using the space out wide well. Getting the better of the 50/50 battles closing down the ball creating chances whilst limiting opportunities at the other end for Haverhill. A lot of energy expanded by both side in the heat however. Haverhill struggling to match their opponents intensity early only falling behind got into the game late in the first half creating a couple of half chances forcing a save from the keeper. Will be looking to make a better start to the 2nd half. 

 

 A change for the hosts with Amy Round coming on for England in attack. Haverhill to kick-off the 2nd period. Evans on the ball played up to Dunne left cuts inside feeding it into Round, Gentle in on her to defend for Biggleswade outside the box. Brown comes through the back of Murray again with another strong tackle, already having a warning the referee issues her with the first yellow card of the game. 

  Haverhill with a positive start to the 2nd half going in to win the ball higher up the pitch Roper further forwards cutting out a poor pass 25 yards out lays it back to Steed to strike 1st time towards goal. Fitch back on her line sees it all the way claims safely. Biggleswade attack right side Gray up for Murray inside the box back to goal right side brings the ball down into her body knocking it down wide of goal, stretching as she falls trying to strike the ball goalwards doesn’t get a good touch her effort charged down by Evans. The visitors with a throw high on the left inside for Moreton turns on the ball running into the D gets her foot wrapped around the ball drags it wide of the far post. 

Haverhill’s Kayleigh Steed

  Fitch alert comes early as Roper is ready to pounce of a ball lifted into her as she drifts into the left channel. The game more even now Haverhill pressing for a reply, Roper higher Steed winning the tackles in middle. Butler finding space right is allowed to come on covers alot of ground before she is eventually stopped by the sliding challenge of Westrope. 

  Dunne carrying the ball on wide left is sent to the ground winning a free-kick. Players come forwards into the area a great ball fired in with pace the overhead kick is attempted the ball met Fitch can’t move watches the ball come back off the crossbar! If someone wants credit for that kick they’ll have to let me know good effort.

Haverhill come close with the overhead kick striking the bar

Pressure building from Haverhill asking the Biggleswade defence a few questions, Emerton and Gentle both tackling well however. Another free-kick for Haverhill 40 yards out left of centre lifted in to the box left side of goal a jumping player missing but almost un-sighting Fitch she is almost caught out with the bounce but plucks the ball down well.  Wright with a confident call and claims as Butler goes for goal off a 30 yards free-kick.

GOAL! Haverhill’s good start to the 2nd half is of no avail as Biggleswade go on to extend their lead on the hour. A throw beyond the halfway line left side taken early setting Moreton away as she finds a pocket of space taking the ball on into the box, Brown up with her looks to keep her wide of goal pulls up sharply, Moreton checking inside moving across the six yard box not closed down  picks her spot chipping the ball past the keeper at the near post 0-3.

   Brown needing treatment has to come of holding her hamstring is replaced by Keira Ball who takes up an advanced role on the right supporting Round and Dunne in attack. Megan Molloy with a great diagonal past up to O’Connor top of the D a good first touch to bring the ball down into her feet, the shot after less so as she puts too much on it striking the shot wide of the top corner. Gray comes off for Biggleswade with Simms coming back on to attack the right flank. 

  GOAL! Biggleswade go further ahead to take full control of the game the ball central played into Murray 35 yards out sends it forwards into O’Connor top of the D, good control once more his Moreton inside the D wanting the pass, threads it through low to see the attacker burst in behind the defence to set herself up with a one on one with the keeper, is an experienced customer can pick her spot once again and opts to send it wide of the keepers left this time to plant the ball in the bottom right corner to score her hat-trick! 0-4.

A hat-trick for Biggleswade’s Charlene Moreton.

  A hammer blow for Haverhill having started the 2nd half well to fall behind by 4 goals have a mountain to climb now with a little over 20 minutes left. Another drinks break called a chance for players to regroup Biggleswade making another change with Alex Bush coming on for Murray up top. Play resumes Megan Molloy releasing O’Connor moving left, Wright comes well  making the tackle with her foot inside the box before carrying it outside and clearing. Evans intercepts well as Biggleswade threaten to cut a path through the middle. 

  Bush with a shot from 25 yards out as she picks up the ball and has a run at the defence, the shot straight at Wright caught in her midriff. Roper and Megan Molloy have had a battle throughout the match two committed players nibbling at each other Molloy ends up bringing Roper down on this occasion Haverhill getting the free-kick. Biggleswade confident 4 nil up pile players forwards in attack Simms carrying the charge on the ball right side lays it back for the advancing Jodie Molloy difficult to bring under control wants to release a shot. Head is in to close her down and block as she does. 

  Haverhill are tiring space is opening up, O’Connor is another pacy player for Biggleswade is put through on the right after the ball, Evans with a vital interception to throw out a leg cut the pass out. Haverhill make a change Dunne coming off England back on to re-join the attack. Westrope too intercepting a past sent on by Emerton looking for Bush up top. 

 GOAL! A frustrating game for Haverhill just as they were looking to get back into found themselves conceding a further 2 goals. Keeping going and finally get a goal. The ball fed out from the back to Ball in space on the right takes on her marker going on pushed wide the by-line does well to work a powerfully struck cross into the near post the ball cut out is deflected straight to Steed top of the area inside right, drags it into a better position before smashing a shot low across the keeper into the bottom corner 1-4.

Kayleigh Steed gets a goal for Haverhill

  10 minutes left to play a much needed boosts for the hosts. Both sides are tiring have put alot into it space opening up everywhere. O’Connor in particular on the left. Townson tracking back well to tackle Bush inside the box for Haverhill as Simms pace on the right threatens to open them up straight from the restart. Turner comes off for Haverhill, Dunne sent back on.

  GOAL! Biggleswade soon restore their 4 goal lead with Haverhill over committing in attack the move breaking down the ball played on into the middle is fired on up field to O’Connor in behind the defence bearing down on the box one on one with the keeper Wright stays big as long as she can coming out to close O’Connor down, the young attacker striking the ball close in Wright moving left gets a touch but not enough slowing the ball but no one can catch O’Connor as she runs in beyond the keeper to clip the bouncing ball into the net from close range. 1-5.

Kendal O’Connor put through on goal to scores Biggleswade’s 5th

    Moreton and Jodie Molloy come off for Biggleswade, Murray and Gray back on. Spencer defending in the corner against Ball brings the ball out from the back inside for 12 bombs on up the line getting the return ball continues her run laying it off to Murray as she continues her run going central Murray playing her in takes on the shot from outside the box right of the D in low, Wright down low to save. 

  Biggleswade finishing the game strong Gray pacy on the right on for Murray 20 out turns to play the ball through for Simms, looks offside and the flag is up as she buries the ball into the back of the net past the keeper in stoppage time. The final whistle goes as Haverhill see Emerton break up another attack intercepting well at the back.

Full time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 1-5 Biggleswade United Ladies Red

   A 2nd win of the season sees Biggleswade climb into 2nd spot  in the Division One North table behind Needham Market Women after they ran out comfortable winners against previous leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development 6-2. A strong start to the game from Biggleswade on the front foot the pace of Gray and Simms out wide causing problems and were the first to the ball more often than not taking an early lead before Moreton doubled the advantage from the penalty spot. Haverhill were sluggish took too long to find any rhythm encouraging signs towards the end of the 2nd half and began the 2nd period better, chances created may well have pulled a goal back if not drawn level. Biggleswade though always a threat in the final 3rd getting a 3rd goal quickly followed by a 4th killing off the game. Haverhill kept going getting a goa to make it 4-1 Biggleswade straight back to restore their 4 goal cushion.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few notable performances to mention first. For Haverhill Kayleigh Steed with strong winning numerous challenges and looking to get her side going in the final 3rd as was captain Stacey Roper getting hold of the ball and making some determined runs, whilst at the back Melissa Townson and Amy Evans produced a number of important tackles. For Biggleswade, Ashley Emerton and Tasmine Gentle were solid at the back, Emerton in particular stepping out well to intercept stopping Haverhill attacks before they ever go going. Megan Molloy was superb in the centre of the park. Kayleigh Gray and Kendal O’Connor full of pace caused problems throughout. The award though goes to Biggleswade’s hat-trick hero, Charlene Moreton. Was great in linking up the attack and midfield reading the wide players runs and offering support, showing great composure for all 3 goals.

  Enjoyed my trip to The New Croft, the sunshine definitely helping. Good to see both sides in action. Another new name to tick off the list… it’s a long list. A fast paced entertaining game the ERWFL rarely disappoints. My thanks as always to both clubs for their help with the team details is much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Histon Ladies

Sunday 18th October

ERWFL Division One North

Back on the football trail this Sunday afternoon with a relatively short trip for me up the A47 to King’s Lynn to watch a game from ERWFL Division One North, King’s Lynn Town Ladies hosting Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies.

  A game between two sides that have barely got their season’s started, in fact for Histon this is their first league game of the season, whilst King’s Lynn themselves have played just the one. ERWFL Division One North now with just 6 sides in it after the withdrawal of newcomer Thorpe St Andrew Women and with their Division One South counterparts also losing a side in Hoddesdon taking them down to just 7 it is frustrating for all sides as most express a preference for a larger single division. Of course ideally and the aim is to have the two divisions up to their full compliment of 12 each. The county leagues are growing that should become a reality in the near future.

 Along side King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Histon Ladies. Cambridge City Ladies Development, Newmarket Town Women, Needham Market Women and newly joined Haverhill Rovers Ladies are six sides competing in Division One North. As thing’s look that is a strong line-up with all of those sides capable of mounting a title push to get themselves into the Premier Division. COVID-19 curtailing last season ending early declared null & void King’s Lynn Town Ladies had gotten themselves into a strong position to challenge Cambridge City Ladies Development at the top, whilst Histon were we placed with games in hand to mount a late push.

  A new season and changes in management for both. Joe Simpson a former assistant coach returning after a spell at Wroxham Women to take the helm of the women’s team amongst his other roles at King’s Lynn Town. Taking over from Michelle Stewart whose hard work for the club over the previous 6 years has build a strong foundation for women’s football in King’s Lynn While at Histon, Matt Phillips moves up to take charge of the 1st team with Matt Payne who has put a great deal of work over the years into ensuring Histon has a great set-up to improve the women’s game. 

  A winning start to the season for King’s Lynn Town Ladies when they eventually got their league campaign underway two weeks ago. A good result 3-0 at home to Suffolk side Needham Market Women. That followed up last weekend with a 2-0 win at home to Wodson Park Ladies in the League Cup 1st Round. Have made a few signings over the summer to strengthen the squad, with Jade Kelly, Emma Bunton and Bryony Russell-Smith all returning to the club this season have also recruit 3 players who were with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last season, Catherine Ray, Kim Fairweather and Fran Peeling. Also worth noting the club had a number of young players ready to push for a regular place prior to the previous season ending.

 A frustrating start to the season for Histon… or rather no start at all as is the nature of the times with COVID there first game of the season at home against King’s Lynn amongst those called off. There only competitive match to date on the 20th September playing ST Ives Town Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup losing to the ERWFL Premier Division side 4-2. Another frustrating period with the squad needing to isolate. Finally getting their league campaign started today.  During the summer there was some upheaval within the club with several on the Reserves side going with thier manager to form the new Histon Hornets WFC. However the club retained a healthy number of players and adding several new faces have enough to establish what is a new Histon Ladies Development side for the new season. amongst the new signings 4 feature in todays squad, Daisy Barns, Becky Charter, Ester Mctrusty and Abi Molloy.

  King’s Lynn Town Ladies now playing their home fixtures at Lynnsport on their 3G pitch behind their old River Lane grass pitches. The leisure facility host to a number of clubs and sporting activities. The club keen to play here, will no doubt have a few more games at The Walks were times return to normal. The pitch caged can be viewed all round with a small area inside for standing spectators. A cloudy overcast day, shouldn’t be any rain, reasonably mild.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Chloe Burch, Fran Peeling, Georgia Freeman, Shanice Burch, Kirstie Smith, Deva Rawlings, Rachael Skinner, Jodie Hopkins, Tiffany Forshaw (C) & Emma Corbyn. Subs – Amy Cropley, Kim Fairweather, Jade Kelly, Zara O’Neill & Oksana Imanalijeva.

Histon Ladies – Alison Wright, Amie Flack, Abby Laughlin, Brie Baker (C), Tessa Shaw, Lauren Martin, Sophie Lanham, Becky Charter, Daisy Barns, Kirsty Geal & Molly Blair. Subs – Abi Molloy & Ester Mctrusty.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Histon with the kick-off to get the 1st half underway wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. King’s Lynn opposite wearing blue shirts and shorts with yellow trim with blue and yellow socks. The hosts pressing their opponents from the start closing down their defence preventing the ball going forwards deflected centrally spins to Jodie Hopkins on the left her touch taking it in behind however racing for the ball can’t quite keep it in play to get a cross into the six yard box. 

King’s Lynn fast to close on the Histon defence right from the off forcing passes to be rushed miss their mark the attack coming back, Tessa Shaw central clearing as a deflected ball central threatens to escape in behind with Emma Corbyn looking to go in attack for the hosts. Abby Laughlin defending at right back for Histon preventing King’s Lynn captain Tiffany Forshaw spinning in behind her she recieves a Kirstie Smith pass from midfield having drifted to the right. 

Tessa Shaw clearing the ball for Histon Ladies

 Histon get hold of the ball left a fantastic cross field pass picking out Kirsty Geal outside the right corner of the King’s Lynn penalty box she fires a ball into the box blocked King’s Lynn defence back to Geal has support out wide with Sophie Lanham head of her again the ball fired into the area is blocked then clear King’s Lynn look to break Hopkins on the ball down the left with ground to run into crosses the ball in but races wide across goal. Becky Charter gaining ground with the ball on the left her low ball into the air cut out by Shanice Burch the ball played up to Corbyn on halfway holds it up well as Rachael Skinner comes racing down the right wing attempt put it on for her Histon captain Brie Baker able to get to it first.

  The hosts looking lively early on are quick to get numbers forwards when they regain at the back not let the Histon back line settle on the ball. Forshaw in the right channel 25 out puts it with for the advancing Skinner, plays the return ball to Forshaw top of the area, Hopkins making a superb run in from the left isn’t tracked as she runs into the D, Forshaw looking to roll the ball into the path the Histon defence just get there first to clear. Forshaw lines a shot up from all of 25 yards out her effort not troubling Alison Wright in the Histon goal.

  Charter nips in to win the ball high on the left for Histon getting away from her marker into the ox strikes it low towards the near post Bryony Robinson in the King’s Lynn goal has her angles covered down to get behind it and save. Daisy Barns rolling it into the feet of Molly Blair in attack for Histon, has Geal on her right, Chloe Burch getting in on her to cut out the pass King’s Lynn getting straight on the attack the ball put into the middle with Skinner making a run does well to leap and get her head onto the bouncing ball knocking it on for Corbyn finding a gap in the left channel in behind into the area, Baker getting across her close her down defending well the see Corbyn concede a goal kick. 

King’s Lynn’s Rachael Skinner up to head the ball on

 Chloe Burch coming to close down on the flank gets the ball put straight into her funny bone as she goes to block (it’s not funny when you get struck with a ball at close range), a painful one an as the new handball rules go a free kick to the opposition. Burch okay to continue. Blair getting hold of the ball taking it into the area under challenge, off balance doing well to put a dangerous cross in for Histon the hosts clearing. King’s Lynn advance down the right draw another free kick a chance to float a ball into the area Peeling playing it in a good delivery landing centrally Skinner up to strike first time on the volley doesn’t get a clean connect bounces harmlessly in towards goal for Wright to catch. 

Histon Ladies goalkeeper, Alison Wright

  King’s Lynn keep up their pressing game Smith getting forwards this time form a central position up with Forshaw inside the D, Smith tackling getting hold of the ball nudges it to Forshaw going on looking for the return pass Forshaw quick to react opting the back heal, Shaw between the pair reading it getting her leg out to intercept the ball for Histon. The visitors getting the ball up the other end winning a corner on the left can’t make it count. Is being played at a fast pace King’s Lynn as working hard to close the ball proving hard to get through at the back. Forshaw recieving a pass from the right 30 yards out plays it ahead for Skinner on the move her low strike from the top of the D is straight at Wright.

  Lauren Martin up the other end striking the ball first time from outside the box left of the D as Histon get bodies up on the left the ball spinning into her path directs it on target however Robinson is right behind it down low to save. The hosts making the first change of the game Corbyn coming off in attack with Oksana Imanalijeva. Histon though have a free-kick deep on the right more or less a corner a good delivery in across the face of goal players up to attack in far post, Robinson up well to glove it away from danger. Imanalijeva on the left has pace as she runs to get onto the end of a long pass , puts it cross the top of the area with Hopkins now on that flank closing it, Baker on top of her getting the better of the challenge bringing the ball out. 

Histon Ladies, Lauren Martin

  Deva Rawlings busy in the middle for King’s Lynn challenging for the ball and getting fouled too, the free-kick this time going against her 30 plus yards out left of the area. Sophie Lanham over it has got a good strike on her takes on the shot, not enough loop on it to trouble Robinson drifting cross to her right post to catch high. King’s Lynn winning a free-kick right side of the circle inside Histon’s half, Peeling playing it across to Imanalijeva on the left outside the area a good touch putting her away in behind turning towards the box to close the angle hits it hard more likely meant to be a shot than a cross nevertheless very nearly comes of as Forshaw lunges for it far post can’t deflect it inside the post wide. 

Deva Rawlings bringing the ball on for King’s Lynn

  Histon finding it a little frustrating are getting players in the flanks to cross the final ball not coming off. Charter with excellent work on the left riding a challenge takes the ball on up the line her diagonal cross into the area goes long. King’s Lynn looking the more likely to score Chloe Burch getting the ball at the back the left back on for Imanalijeva top of the area has Skinner in close support the two combining to get Imanalijeva away in behind to deliver a cross in dropping near side Wright stooping to claim, as Forshaw with Baker on her shoulder close her down the keeper does get there in grounded as Forshaw keeps the ball in on the by line the angle against her tries to chip Wright the ball looping up dropping beyond the far post.

Histon Ladies, Amie Flack

 Histon coming close up the other end as Amie Flack wins it on the left sends a diagonal ball up towards the area, Lanham up pressuring the defence getting a shot away from inside the D across goal, Robinson diving at full stretch pushing it wide of a corner. All action King’s Lynn rushing forwards Imanalijeva left side crossing early bouncing in towards Forshaw right of the D, can’t get there before Shaw her slicing clearance pole axing her centre back partner Brie inside the box, Laughlin though round on the cover to put behind for a corner before the hosts can capitalise. From the resulting corner the ball worked short comes to Skinner 25 yards out left side her shot drilled back on runs wide of the near post. Hopkins with a shot over the crossbar from distance right side as Histon are not allowed any time to settle on the ball.

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the first half and the deadlock is broken. Rawlings up to support on the right side has the ball at her feet strong to hold off her marker as she comes infield nudges it on before reversing the ball into the area laying it on a plate for Forshaw peeling clear into the area to slide the ball wide of Wright who doesn’t move 1-0.

Captain Tiffany Forshaw opens the scoring for King’s Lynn

   The hosts with a strong spell at the end of the first half, Rawlings winning her tackles on for Skinner right is finding space well crosses the ball in Forshaw attacking the near post sends the ball across the face of goal. Rawlings central picks out Imanalijeva’s run on he left in behind has the pace, Wright though stepping up can get her gloves around it safely first. Imanalijeva injecting pace on the left crossing early late in the 1st half her ball dipping as it arrives at Hopkins strikes on the volley just inside the box, too many bodies to get through Histon block.

Half-time King’s Lynn Ladies 1-0 Histon Ladies

      A good first half from King’s Lynn playing with a high tempo from the start closing the ball down creating chances eventually making it count scoring late in the half to lead the match. Have gotten forwards well perhaps not really making it count probably should have another 1 or 2. Haven’t let Histon settle on the ball and pressing high has made it difficult for the visitors to get their own attacks going have found some joy on the flanks with Lanham getting into some good positions central forcing a good save from Robinson so the visitors will know they are by no means out of the game and with just a single goal lead more than capable of turning it around in the 2nd period. 

   Two changes for Histon at half-time with Laughlin and Geal the players off, Abi Molloy coming on at right back whilst Ester Mctrusty takes up position on the left wing. King’s Lynn getting the 2nd half underway. Get straight on the offensive Rawlings up to Imanalijeva left side knocking it on races in behind to cross a high ball in close to goal claimed high by Wright.

King’s Lynn defender Georgia Freeman winning the ball

  The ball rolled on into the feet of substitute Mctrusty left for Histon her first touch taking it beyond Burch looks to get on into the box Freeman coming across obstructing her the free-kick given. A dangerous position 25 yards out left side Flack over the ball her delivery towards the far post long, between them Charter and Lanham keeping the attack active, Charter firing a ball in on the angle, blocked comes back to Lanham she whips a vicious cross through the six yard box, Mctrusty throwing herself at it far post can’t get a touch.

Histon Ladies captain, Brie Baker

   Up the other end Hopkins getting into the box with the ball left side checks back inside to shot leaning back sends it wide of the far post. Mctrusty giving Histon an option on the left taking the ball on jinks left then right, Shanice Burch standing her ground lunging in to nick the ball before the cross can be executed. Skinner off a throw high on the right turns inside on the angle lobs the ball onto the roof of the net. Baker prevents Hopkins getting in behind on the right giving away the free-kick. Forshaw on the delivery high into the air Wright with a confident take. The hosts with a strong start to the 2nd half half prevented Histon gaining any momentum with Hopkins, Skinner and Imanalijeva pressing the defence Forshaw coming back to regain possession.

Jodie Hopkins looking to get past Histon captain Brie Baker

  Skinner from all of 30 yards with a strike fired wide of the target. Forshaw with a similar effort moments later. Hopkins leading the line now. A good contest shaping up between her and Baker, Histon’s captain has been busy in defence but winning her fair share of the ball prevents the King’s Lynn attacker spinning off her inside the D getting in behind with a lunging tackle. King’s Lynn quickly back on the ball winning a throw dropped into Imanalijeva inside the area right corner by the by line holds it up, knocking it back wide to Peeling to fire in the cross chest height near post Wright behind it but under pressure from Forshaw  spills it, Flack clearing the danger.

Fran Peeling with Histon’s Sophie Lanham

   Hopkins shrugging off her marker turning to get into the box right of goal prepares to line up a strike, Baker back on her superbly has to get her tackle right and does to see the ball deflected away. Skinner racing away with the ball at her feet right down the line swings a cross back in towards the top of the area Hopkins bringing it down with her left foot striking the shot, the effort once again finding Wright the Histon keeper saving. Histon making a change bringing Geal back on for Barns with 25 minutes gone in the 2nd half. King’s Lynn also making a change Chloe Burch having picked up an injury a few minutes earlier unable to continue on comes Amy Cropley going it at right back with Peeling switching to the left.

  Forshaw spinning into a shot close range at the near post left sides sends it over the top as she makes the run for Imanalijeva coming down the left. A 2nd change for King’s Lynn sees Hopkins coming off in attack to be replaced by Zara O’Neill. The substitute almost with a immediate impact controlling the ball in space outside the box 20 yards out turning and striking the ball screws wide of the left post. King’s Lynn continuing their pressing in the final 3rd sees Skinner going for the lob 25 yards out, back peddling Wright knows she is beaten if it drops but to her relieve drops over the bar. 

King’s Lynn’s Rachael Skinner

 Forshaw attacking right into the area goes down under challenge with Baker wants a penalty the appeal waved away. Mctrusty taking on the King’s Lynn defence getting a deflected cross into the six yard box Robinson onto it before Charter can make up the ground. Forshaw comes deeper Rawlings picking her out lays it forwards for O’Neill to attack drifting right, Baker cutting the pass out. 

  GOAL! Looking the more likely to score King’s Lynn get a 2nd goal in the 75th minute a surging run on the ball from Imanalijeva wide on the left closing into the corner whipping a dangerous ball in across the face of over the keeper falling far post Forshaw racing in with the lunge to turn it over the line from close range 2-0.

Tiffany Forshaw doubles King’s Lynn’s lead

  Histon respond with a change Blair coming off in attack, Laughlin coming on into an attacking role as the visitors look to find a way back into the match. Forshaw stealing in to win the ball back 25 yards out drives into the box left side Baker covering across to challenge sending the ball out for a corner. A dangerous inswinging delivery into the six yard box dealt with well by Shaw heading it away wide to the right. 

  O’Neill and Skinner combining for King’s Lynn in attack, the striker with the ball at her feet top of the D shifting left then right Skinner the option to her right on the flank sends the ball out wide Skinner looks to go alone her initial effort blocked  rebounds to her sending  a cross in along the top of the six yard box O’Neill arriving looks to turn it wide of Wright not enough to beat the keeper at close range. Kim Fairweather comes on for King’s Lynn.

  Histon haven’t had much to feed on in attack 2nd half, winning a corner on the left through Mctrusty have a chance to put pressure on the hosts inside the box. The corner though goes long beyond the far post his kept alive well headed down to drop inside the six yard box, Laughlin is there lunging to get her foot on it deflected goalwards hasn’t the power behind it to carry it past the defence before the block comes in and it is cleared. 

Histon’s Abby Laughlin with a late chance to score

  King’s Lynn come on Smith forwards for Skinner on for Forshaw in the area left side cuts it back inside for Skinner running in to attack the near post Wright down smartly pulling the ball into her body. Lanham playing a long pass on for Mctrusty to attack through the middle, Burch closing her down to clear the ball. Forshaw blasting a shot behind on the angle from 25 yards out in the closing minutes . Jade Kelly coming on late in the game for King’s Lynn sending a shot wide from the right of the D outside the box as Forshaw coming on with the ball left side rolls a diagonal pass into her. Kim Fairweather and Corbyn back on to see out the final minutes ensure King’s Lynn keep a clean sheet replace Rawlings and Smith. 

Full time King’s Lynn Ladies 2-0 Histon Ladies

  King’s Lynn keep a clean sheet and secure the 3 points with a 2-0 victory. Playing a pressing game right from the off, kept Histon on the back foot for much of the game. Rarely letting the ball settle a good test of fitness. A deserved lead at half-time albeit only by a single goal would need another started the 2nd half strongly giving Histon no chance to gain momentum eventually scoring a 2nd. Had more chances so you could argue should have won by a higher score line. Histon can’t argue with the result found it hard to get a foothold in the match the ball coming back all too often keeping their defence busy still at 1 nil at half-time they were never really out of it the 2nd goal coming with 15 minutes to play had they found that all important goal the game might have been turned on it’s head.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders as always to mention. Brie Baker was kept busy in the Histon defence but did her best to rally her side and covered the ground to make some vital tackles. For King’s Lynn it was a solid team performance from back to front pressing high making life easier for the defence. Diva Rawlings putting herself about in midfield with some good runs and tackling. Oksana Imanalijeva made an immediate impact injecting pace on the left. Rachael Skinner was superb pushing the eventually winner all the way until she scored the 2nd goal, therefore today’s award goes to Tiffany Forshaw. Hard for any single player to mark as she moves well across the final third always ready to make a run into the box setting up several attacks too.

 An enjoyable trip to King’s Lynn this afternoon getting back into it after a much needed week off. Still feel this is a league where anyone can take points off anyone else on their day… will that be the case will be interesting to see. My thanks as usual for the clubs for the team details much appreciated.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 08/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th March 

ERWFL Cup

After a long month of postponements Peterborough Northern Star Ladies finally played their County Cup semi-final match against Moulton Ladies a convincing 11-0 win seeing them through to the final of the Northamptonshire Women’s up where they will face local rivals Peterborough United Ladies. That game out of the way the ERWFL Premier Division side had another cup game long lined up at home to fellow league side Colney Heath Ladies in the ERWFL League Cup quarter finals a home tie against Wymondham Town Ladies awaiting the winners. Early chances for both sides Katie Steward firing wide for Peterborough, Sarah Hudson in goal making a quality save to deny Colney Heath. Leah Cudone top scoring for Peterborough through one on one with the keeper to open the scoring for the hosts, Cudone in again to send the ball over the keeper to make it 2-0 with her 20th goal of the season going on to complete a hat-trick with just 21 minutes played. Samaira Khan top scoring for Colney Heath this season pulling it back to 3-1 10 minutes before half-time. The visitors threatening a comeback as Colney Heath pulled a 2nd goal back 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Pushing hard Colney Heath unable to find a levelling goal, Cassie Steward returning to the side recently having had a baby on target to score her first of the season to wrap up a 4-2 victory and send Peterborough into the last 4 of the league Cup.

A first half hat-trick on Sunday for Peterborough Northern Star’s Leah Cudone (photo credit Jason Cox Photos)

ERWFL Premier Division

ERWFL Premier Division leaders Harlow Town Ladies stay 6 points clear at the top of the table as they kept their unbeaten season going at home to 4th placed Bedford Ladies this Sunday. Both sides scoring goals their were plenty on show with the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. The fourth match in a row Bedford have score 4 or more goals, Natasha Fensome leading the attack getting a good portion of them on target to score a hat-trick against Harlow, Jasmine Ajayi also scoring a goal for Bedford. 4 goals for Bedford too last weekend ended up with just a point against local rivals AFC Dunstable Ladies, disappointment at the final whistle this Sunday leaving the Harlow Arena empty handed as a hat-trick from striker Georgia Box helped Harlow to a 5-4 win. Amy Nash and Tayla Handscombe also celebrating a goal each.

Georgia Box scoring a hat-trick for Harlow Town Ladies this Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)

Luton Town Ladies move 4 points clear in 2nd spot in the Premier Division table, 6 points back from Harlow with a game in hand. Were at home to Wroxham Women this Sunday in the league. Wroxham having seen a few games called of recently slipping down the Premier Division table, Luton in good form creating opportunities opening the scoring late in the first half Zara Carroll with the ball in for Jess Mckay to head in. 1-0 up at the break Luton were quick out of the blocks 2nd half Dionne Manning with an early chance saved Funmi Babalola putting over on the rebound as McKay’s strike struck the crossbar. McKay finding the top corner for her 2nd of the game in the 58th minute sees her onto 19 for the season. Rebecca Kane with a shot in the final five minutes rolled in by a defender to see Luton win the match 3-0.

Wymondham Town Ladies manager Alex Guy, celebrating a milestone this Sunday his 200th match in charge of the side, the Norfolk side enjoying a great spell in that time rising through the leagues and back to back successes in the County Cup, are up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division table now after coming home with the 3 points secured away to 2nd bottom AFC Dunstable Women. The hosts though taking an early lead going 1-0 inside 2 minutes scoring from a corner. Wymondham getting themselves back into it starting to control possession equalising on the half hour, Chelsea Clarke putting in a cross for Laura Nicholls finish first time. Wymondham going on to take the lead on the closing minutes of the first half Mollie O’Callaghan with the corner kick Mia Etheridge rising to head home. 2-1 up at the break Wymondham went on to seal the win midway through the 2nd half good work from O’Callaghan in midfield the ball on to Etheridge shooting into the bottom corner to make it 3-1.

Royston Town Women another side to have slipped down the ERWFL Premier Division table due to called off fixtures, in good form at the start of the season recent results a mixed bag have reached the last 4 of the League Cup were at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this weekend. Rebecca Vass doing well for Royston since joining the club scoring twice at the weekend to move onto 21 for the season off 14 appearances Charlotte South alos getting a goal for the Hertfordshire side her 5th of the campaign along with a first for Becki Ingram in just her 4th appearance for the side. The 4-0 win for Royston lifting them above Bowers & Pitsea into 7th a point out of the top half with games in hand on a couple of sides.

ERWFL Division One North

Just 3 games left to play for ERWFL Division One North leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development enjoying a strong debut season in the ERWFL losing just one of their 11 games so far this season 9 wins and a draw end Sunday 4 points clear of 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies who sat out this weekends fixtures. Cambridge were away to fellow promoted side East Bergholt United Ladies, the Suffolk side an early pace setter along side Cambridge have since slipped all the way down to 7th in the table. 3 sides for Cambridge this season a big games elsewhere too travelled Suffolk with the bare 11. East Bergholt getting off to a good start 1-0 after just 5 minutes. East Bergholt playing well Cambridge got themselves back level in the 35th minute Bella Simmons brought down inside the box Carla Penny scoring the resulting penalty. East Bergholt came back to retake the lead from a well worked goal to go in 2-1 up at the break. Cambridge regrouping starting the 2nd half well early pressure seeing the ball handled inside the box a 2nd penalty awarded Penny up to score her 2nd of the game top scorer with 19 goals for the season. East Bergholt a threat going forwards fighting to retake the lead, instead it a Cambridge who get thier noses in front midway through the 2nd half with Simmons finding the bottom corner from 20 yards out to score her 12th of the season. Cambridge holding on to win the game East Bergholt left frustrated their goals scored by Jessica Quinsee and Pippa King both on target with their first goals of the season.

Needham market Women also new to the ERWFL this season finding their feet in regional football in just their 2nd season together climbing to 3rd in the Division One North table had closed the gap to leaders Cambridge to 6 points with a game in hand and two games against the league leaders home and away to come. Were away to Histon Ladies this Sunday the Cambridgeshire side 5th also have games in hand 6 left to play before the weekend and on 14 points could well press on into the top 3 themselves. Annie Northwood on target to score her 14th of the season putting Needham market into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A good as it would get for the visitors in the first half however as Histon bounced back well to losing the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final in midweek, equalising in the 22nd minute went on to take the lead on the half hour quickly adding a 3rd goal. Histon leading 4-1 at half-time, Poppy Kelly netting a brace to give her 12 for the season. Alison Wright scoring for the 7th time this campaign and a first goal for defender Amie Flack. An own goal seeing Histon go 5-1 up in the 2nd half. Needham Market getting one back through Millie Carter on the hour as good as it would get Histon moving onto 17 points up to 4th.

AFC Sudbury Women playing their last game of the season this Sunday rebuilding with a young squad after relegation last term have grown as a team results not coming early on but have picked up one notable scalp, Cambridge City’s only defeat this season against Sudbury. Ended the season on a high at home to bottom side Gorleston Ladies, the Norfolk side also new to the league this season enduring a tough campaign no points on the board for the 2nd successive weekend travelled with just the bare 11 players carrying injuries to playing on a tough task against a Sudbury side with 5 named on the bench. Rebecca Stephenson netting a hat-trick for Sudbury. There were also two for Charlene Roach-Smith with Evie Creaton and Phoebe Guiver also scoring in a 9-1 win that sees Sudbury 6th for now at least.

ERWFL Division One South

The fixtures wiped out again last weekend in ERWFL Division One South there was a full fixture list with 3 games on this Sunday. Unbeaten leaders Millwall Lionesses were hosting bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies travelling with just 10 players it was always going to be tough against a Millwall side with plenty of energy and creativity in attack. Molly Hawkins getting the hosts off to a fast start putting Millwall up inside 3 minutes adding a 2nd 5 minutes later was celebrating her hat-trick with 20 minutes gone. Shannan Drewe in on goal to make it 4-0 on the half hour Millie Connell making it 5 moments later. Connell on the scoresheet for her 2nd to score from the penalty spot after Hawkins was fouled inside the box. Matilde Strocchi rounding the keeper to score on her Millwall debut to see the hosts 7-0 up at half-time.

  The goals kept coming 2nd half Kaitlyn Lewis heading in Millwall’s 8th. Hawkins in to score her 4th of the match, Sian Fitzpatrick bringing up double figures. Rebecca Scola getting one back for Hoddesdon midway through the 2nd half. Connell with her 2nd penalty of the match to bring up her hat-trick. Drewe with a quickfire goal making it 12-1 going on to complete a hat-trick with 15 to play. A flurry of goals at the death with Connell making it a hat-trick from the penalty spot Hawkins with her 5th and one from Daniella Colorado.

Millie Connell with 4 goals for Millwall Lionesses at the weekend including a hat-trick from the penalty spot.

Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to keep pace with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the ERWFL Division One South table the Essex side new to the league this season enjoying a strong campaign at regional level a very young side were away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway amongst the goals joining Leigh Ramblers this season was on target to score her 12th of the campaign at the weekend with goals to from Rebecca Dalgarno her 8th of the season and a goal each for Kate newton and Paige White to help secure a 4-1 victory. Harriet Douglas scoring for Stevenage. 

Hutton Ladies 3rd in the ERWFL Division One South table the side the leading pair need to keep an eye on unbeaten themselves the Essex side have much more experience in their ranks and games in hand with the gap now 4 points were away to Lawford Ladies at the weekend their first league game since the 2nd week of the new year plenty of goals scored so far this season were strong in attack again this Sunday top scorer Vicky Kinsman with another brace to her name moves onto 36 now for the season from just 12 games. Lauren Knight on the scoresheet too for her 9th of the season along with a goal for Clare Edmondson and a first for Kayleigh Franklin in a 5-0 win.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 01/03/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL Premier Division

Four games beating the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday. Luton Town Ladies 3rd in the table going into the weekend hosting 3rd fro bottom St Ives Town Ladies. Luton with a fantastic gesture offering all gate money plus more to a charity of choice in memory of St Ives player Charlene Martin who was laid to rest earlier in the week after losing her battle with bowel cancer. An emotional period for St Ives. 

Luton with an opportunity to climb above Peterborough Northern Star into 2nd spot in the table starting well taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Funmi Babalola on target to score her 10th goal of the season. St Ives goalkeeper Kira Markwell with a couple of fine saves to keep Luton from adding to their tally, the host though getting a 2nd goal at the close of the first half Jess McKay on the end of a Zara Carroll free-kick to put the ball away for her 17th goal of the season. St Ives coming out 2nd half looking to pull a goal back neither side with any clear cut chances the game heading into the final 15 minutes, Markwell again saving well. Luton with a corner kick on 79 minutes the ball put into the area by Erica Byron, Leyah Maddix getting onto the end of it to score her first goal and see Luton win the game 3-0. Move up to 2nd six points behind leaders Harlow with a game in hand and a game at home to Harlow to come.

Fourth placed Bedford Ladies made the short journey to play Bedfordshire rivals AFC Dunstable Women at the weekend. Bottom of the table Dunstable rebuilding their side looking to give it a go as they attempt to avoid relegation just 2 points on the board so far this season, Bedford in good form recently getting off to a fantastic start Maya Sidhu putting them into the lead inside 2 minutes. Bex Cray with a couple of early chances too for Bedford one striking the post, Dunstable coming back to level early though 1-1 inside 10 minutes a shot striking the crossbar put away on the follow-up. The hosts going on to take the lead in the 18th minute Nina Regolo with a fine save conceding a corner Dunstable capitalising on the set-piece making it 2-1. Bedford’s turn to come back into it midway through the half, defender Gemma Franklin with the pass out to Sidhu on the right she in turn putting it across for Natasha Fensome to send home 2-2.

  Bedford retaking the lead with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Fensome playing in Setor Acolatse with the header saved but pouncing on the loose ball to score 3-2 up Dunstable with a quick response the scores levelled for the 3rd time in the match again from a corner. The scores all square at the break the game played in windy conditions. Both keepers called into action saving in the 2nd half as both sides pushed on looking for another goal Dunstable fighting getting their noses back in front with 15 minutes left, Regolo saving with her legs as cross put in from the flanks, the ball loose Dunstable quickest to it the shot deflected and in. Dunstable coming so close to recording their first league win of the season the game deep into stoppage time Bedford finding an equaliser in the 95th minute, good work on the ball by captain Priya Bhatti on the left the ball put on for Fensome to strike of the volley to see it finish 4-4! The point enough to take Dunstable off the foot of the Premier Division table their goals scored by Sasha Manders, Jodi McClelland, Danielle Snowden and Chelsea Jeffery.

Haringey Borough Women themselves without a win this season now bottom on goal difference as they missed out on their first win of the season after a late fight back and last gasp winner from hosts Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. Travelling with the bare 11 Haringey fought well getting themselves into the lead. 15 minutes to go and Colney Heath drew level Charlene Moreton scoring on the volley. Christina Freestone scoring the winning goal with a fine strike with what proved to be the last kick of the game.

Another high scoring encounter at the weekend between Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies. Wymondham making the long journey down Essex, neither side with any clear cut chances in the opening 15 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking the lead in the 21st minute awarded a free-kick put away by Megan Harley, her 13th goal of the season. Wymondham coming straight back to level the scores Mollie O’Callaghan lobbing the keeper to make it 1-1. Chances for both after that Georgia Fraser striking the bar, Wymondham straight up the other end to take the lead Hannah Water setting up Freya Symonds to round the defence and score. Wymondham leading 2-1 at the break.

Wymondham Town Ladies midfielder, Mollie O’Callaghan

 A great start to the 2nd half by Wymondham, extending their lead in the 57th minute Chelsea Clarke with the pass for Waters to shoot past the keeper. 3 minutes later Wymondham were 4-1 ahead Waters with her 2nd of the match O’Callaghan with the assist. Bowers & Pitsea pulling it back to 4-2 with a little over 15 minutes to play, Courtney Fraser with a great strike from outside the box to find the top corner. Wymondham straight back to restore their 3 goal cushion Symonds away on the right a dangerous ball into the six yard box turned into their own net by the Bowers & Pitsea defence. The game moving into stoppage time O’Callaghan with the free-kick, Mia Etheridge rising to head the ball in to make it 6-2. Georgia Fraser getting a goal in the closing moments for Bowers & Pitsea to see it end 6-3.

ERWFL Plate

A County Cup final appearance for Histon Ladies in midweek, they were in Cup action too at the weekend in the last of the ERWFL Plate quarter finals away to East Bergholt United Ladies. Not much between the sides in the first half going in at 0-0 Histon with the better chances. The 2nd period following a similar pattern Histon eventually getting their noses in front with 20 minutes left to play Alison Wright with the header at the near post initially blocked finding it’s way over the line. The win sealed in added time with captain Sophie Lanham chipping the keeper to see Histon take it 2-0.

Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies Development

North ERWFL Division One North

Two games played in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend whilst a three games were lost in Division One South on Sunday, it was to one of these Women’s Football East headed too, 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies making the switch to 3G to avoid a 3rd weekend without a game were taking on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. The visitor finding life tough having made the step up to regional football this season without a point on the board and new it would be a tough ask today against a full strength King’s Lynn side as they travelled with the bare 11 several players missing, players carrying knocks and out of position. King’s Lynn were straight on the front foot creating chances Brianne Dyer busy in the Gorleston goal, Rachel Skinner from a tight angle wide on the right opening the scoring her ball in across goal finding the far corner. Nikita Morris doubling the lead after captain Becky Russell’s shot from the top of the box was blocked latching onto the ball near post to turn and smash high into the net. Emma Corbyn seeing King’s Lynn into a 3 goal lead putting in a Russell cross at the near post. Gorleston with little opportunity to get forwards in attack player manager Sophie Gillett with a tremendous strike on the half volley from 25 yards out getting it back to 3-1. King’s Lynn straight back up the other end to make it 4-1 before half-time a double save from Dyer in vain as Millie Hopkisson closing it scores from close range at the near post. 

King’s Lynn always looking to get forwards against Gorleston on Sunday

  4-1 up at half-time King’s Lynn ran riot in the 2nd period racking up the goals as they closed to gap at the top to a point on leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development. Getting off t a fantastic start a hammer blow for Gorleston scoring two quickfire goals Hopkisson and then Corbyn with their 2nd goals each. Corbyn with another effort ruled out for offside. The goals kept on coming Zara O’Neill on in the 2nd half to make her King’s Lynn debut with a great run into the box to get her first goal. A frustrating game for attacker Tiffany Forshaw a host of missed chances 1st half got off the mark to fire King’s Lynn into an 8-1 lead. Both she and O’Neill would go in to score 4 goals each as Gorleston tired, Becky Russell also on the score sheet scoring from a corner kick to see the game finish 15-1. The full match report available further down the page.

Tiffany Forshaw on the scoresheet for King’s Lynn early in the 2nd half going on to score 4.

Zara O’Neill with 4 goals on her debut for King’s Lynn

  Also in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday it was another Suffolk derby match with Needham Market Women up to 3rd in the league away to AFC Sudbury Women. This game a tale of two halves Sudbury with some excellent play in the first half Needham Market not at their best the hosts though unable to breach their opponents defence both keepers making crucial saves saw it goalless at the break. Needham Market dug deep improving in the 2nd period the break through coming in the 70th minute Amber Sparkes setting up Nia Evans controlling the ball before smashing it into the top corner. The 3 points sealed 2 minutes from time with Sparkes striking to find the top corner. Needham Market winning 2-0 are now 6 points behind leaders Cambridge City with a game in hand and have yet to play them 2 potentially huge matches back to back coming up at the end of the month, King’s Lynn will certainly be an interested observer.

 

 

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Gorleston Ladies

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL Division One North

Left it late again this Sunday before deciding where to go to watch a match another storm front breaking yet more rain in affecting the fixture lists once again, spoilt for choice of course so when one game falls by the way side there are plenty more to choose from so kept it local in the finish a sort journey west along the A47 into King’s Lynn to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies play fellow Norfolk side Gorleston Ladies in ERWFL Division One North. 

In anticipation of their fixture being under threat and with no games for 3 weeks King’s Lynn Town Ladies made the switch onto 3G at Lynn Sport just behind their usually Riverlane venue. King’s Lynn Town Ladies are enjoying a strong season in the league an established side in the ERWFL now are looking to push on challenge for the title and with it promotion into the Premier Division itself. Got off to a slow start however losing their opening 2 league fixtures. Recovered well going onto win 6 in a row to propel themselves up into 2nd spot in the table. That run brought to an end by a narrow 3-2 loss to current leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development. The newcomers 4 points clear at the top a question mark over whether they would take promotion themselves or not, might well depend of where their 1st team finishes their season should they win the title even if King’s Lynn don’t overhaul them in the run in 2nd position could be crucial.

Captain Becky Russell at the heart of their midfield top scoring for King’s Lynn with 11 goals so far this season with strikers Tiffany Forshaw and Emma Corbyn both on 8 goals. The club bringing in several young players to join the squad recently adding energy and additional talent to an experienced side. Have lost a couple at the back to long term injury but otherwise can name a full squad for today’s match with 5 available from the bench. A narrow 2-1 win away for King’s Lynn when the two sides met in the reverse fixture at the start of 2020.

  Gorleston Ladies are newcomers to the ERWFL themselves this season like King’s Lynn applying for promotion off the back of a 3rd placed finish in Norfolk Women’s Division One. One of four new sides in Division One North this season along with leaders Cambridge City Ladies and Suffolk sides East Bergholt United Ladies and Needham Market Women. A rapid rise through the county set-up winning 3 successive promotions. The ERWFL the next step up. Have found it tough at the higher level adrift at the bottom of the table losing all 8 league games played so far. A mixed bag of results several narrow defeats and some big losses, looking to improve, Jason Croft standing down as manager, Sophie Gillett has taken on the role as player/manager. The women’s side well supported by Gorleston FC remain in good spirits despite the lack of points so far. Won’t be easy this afternoon however as Gorleston travel across the county with just the bare 11 available no one on the bench a few carrying knocks and some out of position.

   The game today played a Lynn Sports 3G pitch a popular sporting facility to the north of the town, my first visit to the place a hive of activity. Despite all the rain Sunday bright the sky blue a few clouds around. Very chilly mind a keen wind that was quite strong blowing from one end of the pitch to the other. The pitch a good size a viewing area to one side.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Lily Porter, Shanice Burch, Georgia Freeman, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Tegan Wheeler, Becky Russell (C), Deva Rawlings, Rachel Skinner, Nikita Morris & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Oksana Imanalijeva, Millie Hopkisson, Rhian Ellis, Zara O’Neill & Emma Corbyn.

 Gorleston Ladies starting XI – Brianne Dyer, Hayley Muir (C), Abbie King, Chantelle King, Leanne Muffett, Kelly Allen, Sophie Gillett, Nicola Sheldrake, Tia Roberts, Hannah Chamberlain & Laura Atkinson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 King’s Lynn to get the match underway kicking off 1st half wearing blue shirts and shorts with yellow trim with yellow and blue socks. Gorleston playing in an all green kit. The ball put back to captain Becky Russell she plays the pass forwards looking for lily Porter making a run on the left cleared by Gorleston captain Hayley Muir at right back the ball intercepted 30 yards out by King’s Lynn’s Nikita Morris right of the D plays it on into the path for Tiffany Forshaw running into the area, Abbie King closing on her shoulder in to challenge prevent the shot coming in.

  Russell getting hold of the ball in the middle has options ahead of her runners right and left aims her pass out to Forshaw coming inside from the left, the ball cut out by King at the back. King’s Lynn lively early on getting bodies forwards, Tegan Wheeler in the middle on for Deva Rawlings the ball put out wide right Rachel Skinner taking it on turning to get inside her marker flashing a ball in across the face of goal. 

 Sophie Gillett picking up the ball in the middle strong a she carries on on holding off Russell before sending it on for Hannah Chamberlain making herself available on the right channel, Georgia Freeman standing her ground not letting the attacker get inside her. Brianne Dyer called into action to make the save in the Gorleston goal as King’s Lynn get on down the left Morris on the ball cutting inside to shoot. 

Hannah Chamberlain looking to hook the ball forwards for Gorleston

 A corner given as Russell’s shot from the top of the area takes a nick on it’s way wide following good work from Skinner on the right. The corner in high near side headed up by Morris, drops back down for her to hit first time her effort blocked inside the six yard box deflected out to Porter left side she fires it back in another block before Gorleston scramble it away. King’s Lynn on the front foot, Gorleston pressing well in the middle of the park but the ball coming back too often

 GOAL! The early pressure telling as King’s Lynn open the scoring, Wheeler getting on down the right Leanne Muffett closing in to tackle the ball running on into the corner Skinner after it into the corner getting control and firing the ball in across the face of goal to find it’s way inside at the far post 1-0.

Rachel Skinner with the opening goal for King’s Lynn

  An error at the back bringing Gorleston a bit of respite at the back as they win a corner can’t capitalise from the set piece, Gillett though doing well to prevent King’s Lynn mounting a rapid counter attack. Wheeler laying the pass forwards for Forshaw running left channel under pressure a defender on her shoulder pokes her shot wide. Gillett looking to make things happen through the middle for Gorleston the ball put on for Chamberlain right her touch heavy allowing King’s Lynn defender Shanice Burch the opportunity to clear the ball out for a throw. 

 GOAL! King’s Lynn double their lead inside the opening 20 minutes Skinner carrying the ball forwards on the right down to the by-line players coming forwards through the middle the winger does well jinking inside to play it back towards the top of the box for Russell to strike her low drive blocked at the near post may have even struck Morris forwards inside the six yard box, either way Morris is sharpest to react latching onto the ball and tuning into the shot to smash it high into the roof of the net 2-0.

Nikita Morris on target for King’s Lynn’s 2nd goal

  King’s Lynn winning the ball looking to get forwards as quickly as possible players making good runs Porter left side taking the ball in looking to thread it through in behind for Forshaw, Muir getting her foot on the pass deflecting it towards King to launch up field. Bryony Robinson dealing with a cross fire in from the left as Gillett goes on from a Tia Roberts pass, the hosts break quickly the ball forwards into Forshaw left channel bringing the ball down bursts into the box and angle closing quickly at the near post looks to lift the ball over the keeper, Dyer gloves up pushing the ball up and catching safely. 

King’s Lynn defender Georgia Freeman

  Skinner blasts a shot wide as a defensive clearance falls to her. Russell lining up a strike from distance the ball smashing against the crossbar. Forshaw inside the box left holding off defenders puts her shot wide. King’s Lynn on top Gorleston on the back foot defending unable to get the ball up to Chamberlain and Laura Atkinson in attack. A double switch for King’s Lynn Porter and Wheeler off on come Oksana Imanalijeva and Millie Hopkisson. Forshaw and Russell combine in front of the box for King’s Lynn going forwards Chantelle King with a superb tackle on Russell to win the ball back for Gorleston. 

  Muir blocks inside the box as Imanalijeva brings a diagonal ball down from the right. Gillett with another powerful run through the middle, tackled by Rawlings, Russell takes the ball on aiming to release Forshaw early in behind, Dyer out of her box early winning the race for the ball. Forshaw a threat on the left in attack touching the ball on into the area shoots across the keeper the ball striking the base of the far post out towards the right Morris racing onto it opens her body up to place her shot low, Dyer on her line saving with her legs before the ball is cleared. Forshaw frustrated so far as she sees another effort at goal fly over the ball from inside the D.

King’s Lynn’s Deva Rawlings

 Forshaw off for a rest on come Emma Corbyn in attack. The substitute with a chance straight away forcing a save from Dyer down low to her left to push the ball away. Relentless from King’s Lynn, Gorleston losing possession in the final 3rd have to get back quickly King’s Lynn rushing on Imanalijeva sending a shot wide across the face of goal as she gets free on the left.

GOAL! Five minutes left to play in the 1st half and King’s Lynn further extend their lead, Russell with a burst of pace travelling withe the ball getting on down the right squaring it near post into the path of Corbyn to strike home from 8 yards out 3-0.

  Gorleston with a rare attack Roberts up with Gillett on the left first winning a throw high and then a corner kick. The delivery in near side cushioned down latched onto by Chantelle King getting her foot over the ball striking it wide of goal.

 GOAL! Out of no where Gorleston have a goal back and a superb shot it is too. The visitors winning the ball back high, Gillett central onto it 25 yards out catching it on the half volley a spectacular strike angling away from the keeper Robinson with no chance to stop it 3-1. 

Sophie Gillett with a fantastic strike for Gorleston

 GOAL! Almost immediately after they’ve scored however Gorleston concede a 4th goal. Desperately unlucky for Dyer but great persistence from King’s Lynn as they press forwards, Hopkisson with a shot from inside the box right Dyer with a superb double stop gloving her effort away they a follow up strike from the right the ball down in the six yard box Hopkisson racing in on the follow-up quickest to it smashing it past keeper at close range 4-1.

 The woodwork struck again as Hopkisson and Skinner combine on the right for King’s Lynn. Hopkisson again on the ball with a first time hit inside the D as the ball comes in front the left struck over the bar. Russell coming forwards working the ball on with support from Imanalijeva on to Corbyn inside the box her first touch giving Dyer the opportunity to step forwards and claim the ball. Russell away left side sending a deep cross in towards the far side Morris onto it hits the shot blocked by Muffett full in the face a painful one a bloody nose has to come off for treatment Gorleston down to 10.

Nicole Sheldrake bringing the ball on for Gorleston

 King’s Lynn constantly first the any 2nd ball never a moments let off for Gorleston battling hard but their opponents keep coming Morris running into the box from the right, Chantelle King lunging in to tackle, Morris with a 2nd bite at the cherry fires into the side netting. Nicola Sheldrake able to bring the ball on for Gorleston right side on for Gillett her pass on to Chamberlain holding it up outside the box can’t pick out Atkinson as Burch closes her down.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 4-1 Gorleston Ladies

  The first half ends with King’s Lynn leading 4-1 have dominated play from start to finish creating a host of chances getting into a early lead moving the ball well players providing great runs all over the park getting forwards well always an option for the player on the ball. Gorleston working hard but on the back foot haven’t had any meaningful possession and the ball is coming back all too quickly getting a goal back with just their 2nd attempt on goal giving them some hope but short lived King’s Lynn able to rotate their players keeping energy levels high.

  Gorleston the get the 2nd half underway the wind at King’s Lynn’s back now have made a three changes Forshaw back on for Morris, Rhian Ellis on for Skinner on the right and Zara O’Neill on to make her debut replacing Hopkins-Duckhouse. Straight away the hosts have Gorleston under pressure Russell on for Corbyn, Muffett defending. Muffett one more as on Forshaw inside the box doing enough to see the striker put her shot wide as Ellis puts the cross in from the wing.

GOAL! An early goal for King’s Lynn at the start of the 2nd half a heavy blow for Gorleston. Forshaw with the run and shot from the left the shot stinging the keepers gloves falls down to Hopkisson racing in near post to blast in from 6 yards out 5-1.

Millie Hopkisson getting King’s Lynn off to a fast start in the 2nd half with her 2nd of the game

GOAL! Not one but 2 quick fore goals at the start of the 2nd half as Forshaw causes mayhem on the left once again driving on to fire in a low cross to the near post Corbyn to it first inside the six yards box clipping it up back across the keeper Dyer unlucky getting a touch on it but so close had no chance to set herself 6-1.

 All King’s Lynn at the start of the 2nd half pushing on through the middle, Russell firing a 25 yard drive wide of the right post, Forshaw with an effort put over from the left. Ellis skipping free on the right playing a cross in towards Hopkisson top of the area striking across the ball, Dyer with a fine save. 

Becky Russell holding off the tackle by Gorleston’s Kelly Allen

  King’s Lynn have the ball in the back of the net again this one though ruled out for offside. The hosts bringing the ball on O’Neill getting forwards to support Forshaw inside the box left of goal players going forwards, Forshaw striking the ball Dyer saving gloving the ball forwards Corbyn racing onto it burying it into the back of the net but it won’t count the flag up against her.

 Robinson has had little to do up the other end comes racing out of her box as Gillett manages to feed the ball through for Chamberlain. Forshaw coming on left side sends a shot into the side netting.

GOAL! King’s Lynn soon have a 7th goal and it’s a goal on her debut for O’Neill making a superb run from midfield into the box getting in behind onto the ball left of goal to send the ball across the keeper from close range 7-1.

Zara O’Neill with a goal on her debut for King’s Lynn

  Hopkisson brings the ball on through the centre for King’s Lynn unopposed she goes on has Corbyn ahead of her 25 yards out back to goal gives her the ball held up she sends it back across to Hopkisson top of the area, doesn’t get a clean strike on the ball her attempt angling wide of the post. 

GOAL! Forshaw on the scoresheet at last, must have been wondering if it was going to be one of those days but you can’t keep giving her opportunities through the middle this time a well made run the ball fed into her feet takes in on in behind into the area the keeper comes but can’t get there Forshaw rounding her to place the ball into the bottom corner beyond 8-1.

 The wind is alot keener now very chilly, Gillett the most likely to make thing’s happen for Gorleston strong on the ball pressing forwards goes it alone bearing down on the box is simply outnumbers in the end run of the ball Rawlings bringing the ball forwards passing to Russell to set off another King’s Lynn attack. 

GOAL! A goal for the captain as King’s Lynn win a corner on the right, a great inswinging delivery put under the bar Dyer doing well to keep it up a glove up high knocked down onto the penalty spot straight to Russell strikes the ball Dyer with a reactive save with her legs the ball deflected away Russell onto it again not closed down able to smash it high into the back of the net 9-1.

  Dyer by far the busier of the two keepers making another save with her legs as O’Neill races through into the box latching onto a crossfield ball as Forshaw looks to find Russell. Dyer low to her left to push a strike fired in from 20 yards out for a corner on the right. The delivery deep to the far post Forshaw adjudged to have committed the foul as she climbs for the ball. Gorleston are tiring alot of effort put in and run ragged by King’s Lynn as they come wave after wave in the 2nd half.

GOAL! Forshaw with her 2nd of the game bring’s up a double figure scoreline Gorleston slow to react at the back the ball finding it’s way through to Forshaw clear in the box left of goal hits it hard across the keeper to find the far corner 10-1.

 Abbie King cutting out the ball as Hopkisson attempts to thread it through for O’Neill making a great run. Played forwards won back by the King’s Lynn defence won’t stick no respite the hosts press forwards. Bursting forwards the ball put quickly into Forshaw inside the D, shapes to shot the tackle deflecting the ball wide for a corner kick. A high ball in near side Allen up to head the ball to safety for Gorleston. Imanalijeva comes off as King’s Lynn bring Porter back on.

Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the ball for King’s Lynn

 Muir getting in the block to send the ball away for a corner as O’Neill tries her luck from 20 yards out. Corbyn coming near side to receive the corner tuns into the shot her first time strike sent over the bar. Skinner comes back on for Freeman

GOAL! O’Neill with her 2nd of the game scores as she makes a fantastic run forwards as Russell collects the ball on the right the diagonal pass put into her run O’Neill takes it on into the area and cool as you like strokes the ball wide of the advancing keeper 11-1.

 15 minutes left to play relentless from King’s Lynn, Gorleston can get no where near the ball, Russell hard to track at the best of times never stays still away to the left this time into the channel hits a shot in from 25 yards out, Dyer making the diving save pushing the ball out to the right not out of play gather in the corner by Corbyn squared back in O’Neill attacking it near post close in Dyer behind it able to get her gloves on the ball.

 King’s Lynn with another double change Hopkins-Duckhouse and Wheeler back on for Rawlings and Corbyn. Porter with a strike over the bar from inside the box as she receives ball following great work from O’Neill coming forwards right side. All King’s Lynn 2nd half no respite for Gorleston still playing with smiles on their faces even though they are on the wrong end of a heavy defeat. 

GOAL! The goals keep coming too Forshaw scoring her hat-trick as she is put through on goal by O’Neill 25 yards out, Forshaw closing in on the keeper slotting her shot past her into the bottom corner 12-1.

 Muffett sliding in to tackle Ellis on the right as she looks to cut inside with the ball. 

GOAL! A hat-trick for O’Neill on her debut set up by Forshaw out on the left wide on the ball comes on before sending in a dangerous ball to the near post O’Neill allowed to steal in unopposed one more meeting the ball close it to flick past the keeper 13-1.

GOAL! King’s Lynn full of energy in the closing stages of the match, Gorleston dead on their feet the goals keep coming, O’Neill getting hold of the ball on halfway looks up for options Forshaw with the call is making the run left side wants the ball, a fantastic delivery from O’Neill dropping it into her path into the box Forshaw with the clinical finish has 4, 14-1.

Tiffany Forshaw on the scoresheet with 4 goals for King’s Lynn in the 2nd half

  GOAL! 4 minutes left to play Wheeler and O’Neill combine getting the ball on quickly into the box Gorleston don’t get it away King’s Lynn close down the pass sneaking across the box to O’Neill free on the left of the six yard box struck low and scores a 4th on debut 15-1.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 15-1 Gorleston Ladies

 King’s Lynn run rampant in the 2nd half to take full advantage and rack up the goals, netting 15 in the end a totally dominant display, on the front foot straight away scoring early Gorleston working hard knew it would be tough but their opponents movement on and off the ball was too much along with having no substitutes to bring on rest players King’s Lynn using their bench well, kept going clinical finishes the goals flowing. Close the gap to leaders Cambridge City to 1 point the goals helping their too the difference -7 at the start of the day now plus 7. All to play for yet. A valiant effort from Gorleston in good spirits throughout despite the huge loss will hurt no doubt and this report won’t help at all but credit to them gave it a go can only move on to the next one.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few players to mention, have nothing but praise for Gorleston goalkeeper Brianne Dyer was under the cosh from the first minute and despite the goals produced some fine saves. Sophie Gillett too several strong runs on the ball tried to make thing’s happen but lacked support as King’s Lynn kept the defence penned in scored without a doubt the best goal of the game. For King’s Lynn, Becky Russell will always gives everything. What a debut for Zara O’Neill scoring 4 goals showed a great first touch and timed her running excellently. This weekends award though goes to Tiffany Forshaw frustrated early on kept going in attack a threat constantly left side or in the box creating numerous opportunities ending up with 4 goals herself. 

 Always a hard one to cover when a game is so one sided but it is what it is, Gorleston will know they were beaten by a far better side today, King’s Lynn with a professional performance took their chances well creating plenty kept playing no arrogance shown at all, although the management team have a selection headache in front of them now. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 02/02/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd February

ERWFL Premier Division

Harlow Town Ladies back to league action this weekend travelling away to St Ives Town Ladies, the Essex side leading the ERWFL Premier Division unbeaten dropping just 2 points this season. St Ives Town promoted to the league this season finding life in the league tough but working hard week in week out to improve. A good performance at the weekend seeing them earn a point against Harlow, St Ives taking the lead in the first half Ruth Fox with a great first touch bringing a pass from halfway down taking it away from the defence running on from 30 yards out into the box the angle against her lifted a superb shot up across the keeper into the far side of the goal to make it 1-0. Harlow coming back to level late in the first period captain Kaydee King always a danger from set-pieces heading the ball on to equalise. Harlow taking the lead in the 2nd half from a free-kick put into the box by Amy Nash, King getting her head on the ball finding it’s way into the back of the net. St Ives Town giving it there all coming back to level the scores and take a share of the point Caitlin McGeown with her first goal of the season. Harlow dropping their first points since the opening day of the season remain unbeaten still.

Ruth Fox with a superb goal to put St Ives Town Ladies into the lead on Sunday (photo credit Gary Reed)

Second placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies close the gap on leaders Harlow to 4 points winning at home to Royston Town Women on Sunday. A good first half from the host side Leah Cudone racing through to beat the offside trap beating the keeper to make it 1-0 in the 18th minute. Peterborough doubling their lead late in the first half Evie Driscoll-King scoring for the 2nd successive match the defender with 5 for the season now. Royston improving 2nd half as they fought to get back into the game Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson with a number of vital saves keeping the clean sheet in tack. Cudone firing in her 18th goal of the season towards the end of the match the seal the victory.

Luton Town Ladies hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game in hand were hosting Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies at the weekend. Luton with a number of chances in the first half frustrated by Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler making several fine saves. The hosts taking the lead late in the first half awarded a penalty, Charlene Moreton finishing from the spot to see the visitors 1-0 up at half-time. Luton getting back onto level terms early in the 2nd half. Finding a way past Butler to take the lead went onto score a further 2 goals, strikers Rebecca Kane and Jess McKay remaining neck and neck on the goal scoring charts both on 16 for the season now McKay with a goal, Kane netting a brace. Luton winning the game 4-1 their was also a first goal of the season for Olivia Abraham.

Bedford Ladies 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division are currently in a rich vein of form themselves making it 6 straight wins in league and cup on Sunday away to 2nd bottom Haringey Borough Women. This their fifth straight league win the 3 points coming courtesy of a 4-1 victory the goals spread amongst their squad 4 different scorers at the weekend Natasha Fensome putting away her 8th goal of the season, Lauren Murray her 5th and Setor Acolatse scoring her 4th of the campaign. Bex Cray the other goalscorer with her 2nd of the season. 

ERWFL Division One North

King’s Lynn Town Ladies were aiming to close the gap to ERWFL Division One North leader Cambridge City Ladies Development to 4 points as they travelled down to Suffolk to face AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. A close game between the sides back in November King’s Lynn winning 2-1 at home, this Sunday’s game proving a similar case Sudbury’s young side hard to break down at times both sides creating chances scoring a goal each in the first half the scores level King’s Lynn improving in the 2nd period scoring again with what would prove to be the winning goal the result 2-1 yet again, Emma Corbyn with her 8th goal of the season and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the scoresheet.

Three successive league wins sees Needham Market Women climb up into 3rd spot in the ERWFL Division One North table finding their feet in the league now following promotion last season. Were away to Newmarket Town Women on Sunday. Came out on top of a 7 goal thriller to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture between the sides in November. Another high scoring game between the sides this time around Needham Market starting well have goalscorers throughout their side, taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Francesca Rainbird putting the ball over the top for Annie Northwood to close in on goal drive a shot home. A strong opening period from the visitors restricting Newmarket’s chances doubled the lead in the 34th minute a 30 yard free-kick from Amber Sparks parried onto the post by the keeper Lois Balfour rushing in on the follow up to make it 2-0. Balfour in to score her 10th goal for the 1st team this season making it 3-0 set up by Northwood in the 40th minute. Needham Market 3-0 up at the break. 

 

A great first half from Needham Market on Sunday seeing them leading 3-0 (photo credit Ben Pooley)

Newmarket goalkeeper Ellie Quinn-Nicholls denying Balfour her hat-trick early in the 2nd half. Newmarket capitalising on a mistake in the 65th minute lobbing the keeper from 35 yards out to make it 3-1. Northwood putting Needham Market 4-1 up with the game into the final 15 minutes, her 13th goal of the season a superb half volley. Newmarket fighting to get back into it scoring a 2nd goal following a scramble from a corner in the 85th minute, Bethany Woodfield and Chloe Slater with their goals, Needham Market defending to see them climb into 3rd spot with a 4-2 victory.

ERWFL Division One South

Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to do well in ERWFL Division One South joining the league this season move joint top with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the table after the league leaders saw their match away to Hoddesdon called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Leigh Ramblers away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. A close game between the sides, Emily Schofield with her 11th strike of the season putting Stevenage in front in the 15th minute. Lucy Dalgarno pulling the scores level for Leigh Ramblers 5 minutes later. Goalkeeper Emily Mackler with a number of saves to deny Stevenage seeing the pair level at the break 1-1. Tea Oldroyd kept busy in the Stevenage goal too as Leigh Ramblers pushed forwards in the 2nd half Georgia Holdaway beating her in the 80th minute to score her 9th goal of the season to see Leigh Ramblers clinch the 3 points.

A new arrival can certainly make an impact upon any side and that can definitely be said for Kristina O’Connell at Wodson Park Ladies. A poor beginning to the season which saw them lose their first 6 league games Wodson Park got their first 3 point of the season in mid-December a 3-2 win away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. O’Connell making the switch from Hoddesdon in the New Year. A narrow 2-1 defeat to high flying Leigh Ramblers in their first match of 2020. Wodson Park have now won 3 in a row in league and cup to move away from the bottom of the table. O’Connell scoring successive hat-tricks before this weekend on target for four more goals this weekend taking her to 10 already from just 4 appearances. Wodson Park at home to Lawford Ladies fielding the bare 11. Dempsey Favell also on the scoresheet for Wodson Park in a 5-1 win. Daisy Canny scoring late on in the game for Lawford has 15 for the season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 26/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th January

ERWFL Premier Division

With runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies playing their rearranged League Cup game this weekend it was a chance for the chasing sides to reduce their 9 point lead at the top. Remains very tight in the Premier Division below Harlow with just 6 points between the 2nd and 9th placed sides in the table all fancying their chances of pushing on in their final games of the season.

 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies topping the chasers in 2nd spot were at home to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. Dunstable very nearly opening the scoring in the 10th minute Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson tipping the shot over the bar, going on to claim the resulting corner and setting up Katie Steward to put the hosts 1-0 up in the 11th minute. Peterborough comfortable after that going on to take a 2-0 lead in the 20th minute Evie Driscoll-King heading home from a corner kick. Peterborough continuing in the same vein at the start of the 2nd half Chanade Henderson thumping a header against the crossbar before Georgia Coulson made it 3-0 chasing in onto a rebound to make it 3-0. Steph Gale introduced to the action scoring an audacious goal with the outside of her boot looping into the net leaving the keeper standing. Coulson at the back post turning in her 2nd of the match making it 5-0. Dunstable substitute Daniella Snowden putting away a cross pulling a goal back with 15 minutes to play. Time at the end for Gale to score her 2nd of the game following good work from Katie Stewards on the wing 6-1 the final score.

A brace for Peterborough’s Steph Gale on Sunday including an outrageous effort with the outside of her boot (photo credit James Cox)

 Luton Town hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game winning away from home on Sunday against 2nd bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Rebecca Kane netting a first half hat-trick to take her onto 14 goals for the season. Opening the scoring in the 9th minute put through by Rebecca Ferris into the box to slot the ball under the advancing keeper. Kane’s 2nd in the 29th minute scoring from close range off Elly Wade’s cross. The hat-trick coming 5 minutes later send through on goal by Zara Carroll. 3-0 up at half-time Jess McKay edging back into the lead as top scorer for Luton with her 15th of the season in the 78th minute. Tanya Blacksley with her first goal of the season for Luton heading in from a corner in the 90th minute to see the game won 5-0.

With Royston Town Women’s home match against Wroxham called off both Colney Heath Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies took full advantage winning their home matches to climb above them into 5th and 6th respectfully in the ERWFL Premier Division. Colney Heath Ladies hosting St Ives Town Ladies who had Kira Markwell back in goal after the keeper sustained a nasty injury towards the end of last season. Not much between the sides in the opening half hour, Colney Heath’s Rianne Townsend winning the ball on half way sending Megan Kelly away on the right her shot fired into the top corner to make it 1-0. The visitors defending up the other end to hold their lead going into the break. Both goalkeepers called into action in the 2nd half St Ives keeping Colney Heath from adding to their lead frustrated not to get anything from the game in the finish.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies climb up to 6th in the Premier Division table winning at home to an in form Bedford Ladies who had previously won 4 straight games in league and cup. A good start from Bowers & Pitsea undone in the 10th minute as Natasha Fensome ran through onto a loose ball at the back to put Bedford into the lead. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores applying pressure late in the first half Courtney Fraser’s cross turned in by Danni Jennings in the 39th minute to see it level at 1-1 at half-time. Into the 2nd half a long stoppage on play with Bowers & Pitsea’s Yasmin Cowley suffering what appeared to be a serious knee injury, unable to continue awaiting scans to determine the extent of the damage can only wish her all the best for a full and speedy recovery. Bowers & Pitsea rallying well as play resumed taking the lead midway through the 2nd half Megan Harley scoring direct from a corner. The hosts pushing on creating more chances making the lead more comfortable in the 83rd minute Harley with her 2nd of the game a looping strike from 30 yards out. Harley completing her hat-trick in the final minute running away down the wing sending her shot into the top corner Bowers & Pitsea winning 4-1.

ERWFL Cup

One outstanding tie left to play in the 1st Round of this season’s ERWFL Cup, the game postponed from a fortnight ago due to minibus trouble for Harlow Town Ladies on the way to the game rearranged for this Sunday the ERWFL Premier Division leaders heading up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. Close games between the pair in the league Wymondham the only side managing to take points off Harlow. Meeting the the League Cup both sides affected by injuries and absences only able to field one substitute each a fast start to the game Harlow taking the lead inside 6 minutes a diagonal ball launched up into the area deflected into the path of top scorer Becky Shephard burying her shot to put Harlow into the lead. Wymondham coming back to level the scores quickly defender Lauren Kett putting Wymondham’s top scorer and captain Hannah Waters through clear on goal wrong footing the keeper outside the box to send the shot past her into the empty net 1-1. The game continued to be played at a rapid tempo a number of free-kicks given away players in the wars Danni Clarke in goal for Wymondham with a brave save at the feet of Harlow’s Liv Steele. 

 

Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters with both goals for Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday

1-1 at half-time a hand injury to Clarke seeing her having to come off Freya Symonds taking over in goal putting in an assured performance the defence working hard in front of her both sides attacking an open game and injury to midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan seeing Wymondham forced to play the final 20 minutes with 10 players, despite that upped their effort coming closest to finding the winning goal in normal time Mia Etheridge’s driven shot on the angle smashing against the bar. 90 minutes up the scores all square the tie heading into extra-time. Wymondham back up to 11 with Clarke coming on to support the midfield. Alot of effort put in by both sides Wymondham finding a goal late in the first period of extra play, from a corner the ball retrieved wide fired back across goal flicked on for Waters rising to get her boot on the ball turn it in at close range. Wymondham managing the 2nd period well frustrating Harlow going on to win the match book their place in the quarter finals. The full match report can be found further down the page.

ERWFL Division One North

Plenty of action too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend with all 8 sides in action including a top of the table clash between leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development at home to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The visitors coming into the match off the back of a strong run to close the gap on the leaders. Had the better of the 1st half with goals from Katie Ward and superb strike from Tegan Wheeler seeing them into a 2-0 lead at half-time. A complete turn around in the 2nd half as Cambridge City came back from 2 down to in the game 3-2. Carla Penny with her 15th goal of the season bringing it back to 2-1 on the hour. Rachel Pearce equalising just 3 minutes later a well struck free-kick flying in under the bar. The hosts taking the lead in the 72nd minute awarded a corner the ball fired into a crowded box, bodies everywhere Kayla Krett getting the telling touch to score her first goal for the side, proving what would be the winning goal Cambridge City pulling away 7 points clear at the top.

Cambridge City Ladies Development before Sunday’s game (photo credit Chris Mosley)

Very tight below the top two sides with just a point between the next 4 in the Division One North table. Newmarket Town Women ahead of Histon Ladies in 3rd on goal difference winning at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield putting Newmarket into the lead on 18 minutes that the advantage at the break. Sudbury’s young side working hard to improve week in week out coming back to level the scores with and hour played. Newmarket straight back into the lead 5 minutes later a corner won. Jess Linger with the inswinging delivery pressure on the goal line the ball over the line Linger credited with the goal winning the 3 points for her side.

Histon Ladies matching Newmarket’s 14 point tally in 4th position in the Division One North table winning at home to Suffolk side East Bergholt United Ladies at the weekend. Brie Baker setting up Poppy Kelly to open the scoring for Histon on 6 minutes. Molly Blair heading in a Sophie Lanham cross on 27 minutes to see Histon 2-0 up at half-time. East Bergholt coming back to make it 2-1 with Elena Nitsche on target in the 70th minute but with the visitors pushing from an equaliser later on Histon hit them on the counter to win the game 3-1 in the 90th minute Kelly scoring her 2nd of the game. Just one point from their last 5 league games for East Bergholt after a promising start to the season countered by back to back cup wins.

  Histon wearing black armbands on Sunday in memory of Stephen Parker who sadly passed away earlier in the week after losing his battle with cancer a tremendous fan and servant of Histon football club helping with the Ladies side recently. Has help me on a number of occasions RIP.

Histon Ladies wearing black armbands in memory of Stephan Parker on Sunday (photo credit Histon Ladies)

Needham Market Women joining Suffolk rivals East Bergholt on 13 points now 5th in the Division One North table with a big home win over bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. Getting off to a fast start Abbie Wilkinson crossing for Francesca Rainbird to score in the 2nd minute. Lina Nagib’s run through into the box seeing the ball deflect off a defender into the path of striker Lois Balfour to make it 2-0 on 21 minutes. A minute later Balfour netted her 2nd of the game heading an Ashleigh Goddard ball. Balfour celebrating her hat-trick a few minutes later turning in Rainbird’s cross. 4-0 at the Annie Northwood introduced to the action with a goal 3 minutes after the restart. Rainbird scoring her 2nd of the game a couple of minutes later Needham market 6-0 with 50 minutes gone. Gorleston capitalising on sloppy play at the back from Needham Market pulling a goal back on the hour. Northwood with her 2nd of the game from a Gemma Moore corner then setting up Abbie Wilkinson to make it 8-1 completed her hat-trick with 3 minutes left. Needham market winning 9-1.  

ERWFL Division One South

Two matches in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend leaders Millwall Lionesses away to 3rd placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Millwall unbeaten at the top of the table getting off to a disastrous start conceding 2 goals inside the opening 8 minutes. Millwall settling building some momentum Leigh Ramblers with a 3rd goal disallowed for a foul in the build up. Molly Hawkins forcing a save from Leigh’s keeper. Shannan Drewe with a rocket to pull a goal back for the visitors with 21 minutes gone. 2-1 to Leigh Ramblers at the break Millwall out of the blocks 2nd half Drewe netting her 2nd of the game to level the scores in the 52nd minute. Leigh Ramblers providing a stern test hitting the crossbar midway through the 2nd half. Late drama Leigh Ramblers stealing the ball on the Millwall 18 yards line to retake the lead 3-2. The game into the final minute a free-kick for Millwall floated into the box met by new signing Kaitlyn Lewis to score in her debut. The game ending in a stalemate 3-3. The point enough for Leigh Ramblers to climb above Hutton into 2nd spot in the table their goals scored by Paige White and a brace for Rebecca Dalgarno.

Wodson Park Ladies winning 4-2 in the ERWFL Plate a fortnight ago made it back to back wins this Sunday again at home taking on bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Kristina O’Connell joining from Hoddesdon opening her Wodson Park account with a hat-trick against Sudbury repeated the feat against her former club this weekend with Carly Snell also getting a goal to see Wodson Park win 4-2 to pull away from the bottom two. Sam Garner in the first half and Rebecca Scola in the 2nd scoring for Hoddesdon.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 05/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 5th January

ERWFL Premier Division

First Round-Up of the New Year beginning the league reviews with the latest action from the ERWFL all three divisions shaping up nicely before the festive break. A strong ERWFL Premier Division. Harlow Town Ladies six points clear of the rest at the top at the end of 2019, looking to push on and win the title. Some strong challengers below as all 12 sides were in action at the weekend. 

Harlow Town Ladies hosting 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who have a game in hand. The visitors taking the lead in the game going 1-0 up early in the match. An eventful first half Harlow came back to level, scoring twice more to hold a 3-2 lead at the half-time interval. Harlow pulling further in front in the 2nd period went on to win the match 5-2 at extend their lead at the top of the table to 9 points with 10 left to play. Five different goal scorers for Harlow, Fran Gamble scoring her 7th of the season, a 5th goal of the season for both Abbey Dell and Georgia Box whilst Amy Nash and Hannah Porter were all on target with a 4th goal of the season each. Leah Cudone scoring her 15th of the campaign for Peterborough North Star with Stephanie Gale also celebrating her first goal for the club.

Georgia Box amongst the goal scorers for Harlow Town Ladies on Sunday (photo credit Proud of Harlow)

Remains very tight below Harlow, Luton Town Ladies climbing back up to 3rd in the table after a late goal secured all three points away to Wroxham Women on Sunday. A highly competitive match both sides testing the goalkeeper early on. Tight in midfield both sides battling to find the opening goal proving hard to break down. 0-0 at half-time Luton have the tightest defence in the league conceding just 11 goals so far this season and worked hard in defence to keep another clean sheet clearing the ball off the line late on bodies in to block. The visitors finding the winning goal in the 83rd minute Rebecca Kane joining top scorer Jess McKay on 11 goals for the season as she struck a shot across the keeper. Luton also hitting the post in the closing minutes.

Royston Town Women up there too in the cluster of sides in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division going into their 1st game of 2020 on 20 points alongside Wroxham and Luton were making the trip across to Essex on Sunday to face Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who had enjoyed a solid start to life playing at this level for the first time. An even start to the match Bowers & Pitsea gaining some momentum putting pressure on the Royston defence chances created, Royston goalkeeper Ellie Pickard with two superb saves to keep it at 0-0 midway through the 2nd half the visitors going on to score the opening goal in the 34th minute Rebecca Vass with the through ball to send Emma Salter in on goal to make it 1-0.

  Royston leading at half-time. Bowers & Pitsea starting well in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores in the 53rd minute Yasmin Cowley with chances in the first half up highest to head Kiera Adcock’s cross into the bottom corner. two minutes later Bowers & Pitsea were in the lead Ebony Moore at the back post making it 2-1. Royston regrouping getting it back to 2-2 in the 65th minute Danielle Carty scoring from distance. 2-2 with 18 minutes left Courtney Fraser skipping a challenge on the wing sending the ball inside for Sophie Dowman to turn and score to put Bowers & Pitsea back into the lead. The 3 points secured in the final 15 minutes, Fraser and Dowman involved in the build up to see Moore score her 2nd of the game to win it 4-2. All very tight in the middle of the table now as Bowers & Pitsea 9th join Wymondham Town Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies on 18 points, two points behind a trio on 20, including Royston and Wroxham.

Joining Wroxham and Royston on 20 points in 6th place in the table are Bedford Ladies as they won at home against St Ives Town Ladies at the weekend. St Ives promoted as Division One Champions last season in their debut season in the ERWFL finding it tough playing at this level collecting 7 points from their opening 9 matches working hard a steep learning curve held Bedford to a goalless opening half the hosts finding the break through goal in the 2nd period going on to score a further 3 to win the match 4-0.

 Tight in the top half of the ERWFL Premier Division 5 points between 2nd and 6th a trio of sides queuing up below on 18 now. Bowers & Pitsea as already mentioned the other two met at the weekend with Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. A host of injuries both long and short term for Wymondham to deal with this season are in a decent position coming into the New Year. Colney Heath themselves enjoying good form during the first half of the season both will fancy there chances of pushing into the top half towards the end of the season.  Wymondham opening the scoring in the 36th minute Chelsea Clarke setting up top scorer Hannah Waters to fire home her 16th of the season. Olivia Mari equalising for Colney Heath on the stroke of half-time pouncing on the rebound as a well struck free-kick hit the crossbar.

1-1 going into the 2nd half Wymondham retaking the lead early on Waters on target with her 2nd of the match scoring from an impossible angle. Wymondham pressing the attack Katie Knights setting up Laura Nicholls her shot hitting the bar coming back down into play Waters on the follow up blocked, Knights pouncing to put Wymondham 3-1 ahead. Laura Nicholls top scorer for Wymondham last season back amongst the goals after a spell out with injury Jennifer Grey playing her in to score her 9th of the season with 15 minutes left to play. Nicholls 10th of the season coming inside the final five minutes a great individual effort to make it 5-1. Colney Heath’s top scorer Samiara Khan pulling it back to 5-2 with 2 minutes left on the clock Wymondham beginning 2020 with a win.

2020 saw the 2nd battle of the season between the basement sides AFC Dunstable Women and Haringey Borough Women a tough 1st half of the season just 3 points between them both without a win on the board. A transitional period for both, AFC Dunstable a new look side rebuild over the summer after almost folding. Both battling week in week out as they look to improve. The points shared in a 1-1 draw when they met at Haringey earlier in the season. Hannah Ring with her 3rd goal of the season putting Dunstable into the lead on Sunday. A great strike from Rosie Missen for Haringey seeing the visitors come back to level the scores and the points shared for the 2nd time.

ERWFL Division One North

  A superb first half of the season for Cambridge City Ladies Development as the newly promoted side made their ERWFL debut in Division One North winning 5 of their opening 7 matches with just one loss. That result a 1-0 defeat away to AFC Sudbury Ladies. A vital first win of the season too for Sudbury relegated the season before and rebuilding with a new look young side. Pressure applied by King’s Lynn Town Ladies moving into 2nd a point behind to end 2019, Cambridge City played host to AFC Sudbury at the start of 2020. The visitors taking the lead in the 16th minute held onto their advantage late into the 2nd half. Cambridge City doing everything but score the first time they met at last finding a reply with 20 minutes to go Megan Stow tapping home at the far post to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later the hosts were in front Ellie Cullum poking home a Bella Simmons through ball. A quickfire double in the final 5 minutes securing the 3 points Yasmin Crow  and then Stow with her 2nd of the game seeing it end 4-1.

 A strong run of 5 straight wins seeing King’s Lynn Town Ladies recover from losing their opening two games to finish up 2nd in the Division One North table a point behind the leaders Cambridge City at the end of 2019. That form continued into the New Year as they extended their winning run away to bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. A tough introduction to the ERWFL for Gorleston finding themselves adrift at the bottom of the Division One North table without a point on the board with 5 games played. Started 2020 with a positive performance that will give them plenty of encouragement going forwards though as they were unlucky not to take anything away from the match at the weekend going down to a 2-1 defeat. Beth Turner getting off the mark for Gorleston levelling the scores in the first half after Katie Ward had put King’s Lynn in front. Emma Corbyn on target for the fourth match in a row scoring the winning goal for the visitors in the 2nd period her 7th of the season.

A local derby too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend too as Suffolk sides Needham Market Women and East Bergholt United Ladies locked horns for the 2nd time time this season. Both promoted to the ERWFL for the first time this season were neck and neck in the race for the Suffolk Women’s Division title last season. East Bergholt United edging it to complete a 2nd successive league and cup double, began life at a higher level well leading early on 2nd for much of 2019 edged into 3rd by King’s Lynn, a 1-0 home win against Needham Market earlier in the season. Needham Market playing in just their 2nd season since forming taking time to find their feet at this level a great result against their local rivals at the weekend. Lois Balfour amongst the goals for both their new Reserves sides and now the first team opening the scoring early making it 1-0 with just 5 minutes played. Amber Sparkes sending Needham Market into a 2-0 midway through the 2nd half. Sparkes adding a 2nd just 4 minutes later chipping the keeper from 30 yards. Balfour adding her 2nd of the game 2 minutes later. Megan Partridge pulling a goal back for East Bergholt before Balfour completed her hat-trick on the stroke of half-time to send Needham Market into the dressing room 5-1 up at the break. A quieter 2nd half Needham Market creating further chances striking the woodwork Balfour on target for her fourth of the game midway through the 2nd half to see the match won 6-1.

Lois Balfour sending the ball into the back of the net for Needham market Women (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)

ERWFL Division One South

Two matches played in ERWFL Division One South at the start of 2020. Millwall Lionesses ending 2019 top of the table after joining the league in the summer after the upheaval at the club. Rebuilding and regrouping a positive outlook and a hungry squad. Began the year away to Lawford Ladies who they had beaten heavily twice this season at home in league and cup. A tough end to 2019 for Lawford a much more positive start to 2020. A bright start from Millwall out of the blocks quickly Lawford though hit them against the run of play to open the scoring captain Daisy Canny pouncing on a goalkeeping error to make it 1-0. Millwall pushed on creating chances Molly Hawkins dancing through to make it 1-1 in the 20th minute. The host continued to dominate first half but it was Lawford who retook the lead on 40 minutes Canny with her 2nd of the game alert to capitalise on a mistake outside the 18 yard box. Lawford 2-1 up at half-time. Shannan Drewe amongst the goals for Millwall towards the back end of the year pulling the visitors level midway through the 2nd half latching onto a ball over the top to score. 5 minutes later Millwall were leading Samantha Middleton newly introduced to the action volleying home from a corner to make it 3-2 with 20 minutes left. Cansu Mentesh firing home from close range off a corner in the final minute. Millwall winning 4-2 to stay 3 points in front at the top of the table.

Shannan Drewe amongst the goalscorers for Millwall Lionesses at the start of 2020 (photo credit Millwall Lionesses)

Leigh Ramblers Ladies keeping the pressure on Millwall in 2nd beaten 4-1 by Millwall at the end of 2019 the Essex side newly promoted to the ERWFL bounced back with an away win against Wodson Park Ladies to begin 2020. Abbi Brown and Rhiana Castle both scoring their first goals of the season to secure the 3 points for Leigh Ramblers as they ran out 2-1 winners over Wodson Park who put in a much improved performance to begin the new year as they look to get themselves away from the bottom of the table. Olivia Worsfold scoring her 2nd goal of the season for the hosts.