Semi-final weekend for the ERWFL League Cup down t the last 4 sides vying for a place in the final on Sunday 12th May. Cambridge City Ladies looking to make it a league and cup double the Premier Division Champions were at home to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies. Goals from top scorer Erin Davies, Bronte Rapley plus and own goal sealing a 3-1 victory for Cambridge City to see them into their 2nd ERWFL League Cup final in 3 seasons. Harlow not happy with some referring decisions scoring through Hannah Smith her debut goal for the 1st team after impressing and scoring plenty of goals for their Development side this season.
Injuries and player unavailability affecting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies towards the end of the season, despite that have done well to reach the last 4 of the League Cup, drawn at home to play Bedford Ladies. The game officiated by Norwegian referees guests of Cambridgeshire FA this week. A close game in the finish with the game with goals from Amy Magnus and Jasmine Ajayi seeing Bedford through the the final courtesy of a 2-1 victory.
ERWFL League Plate
Also a semi-final played too this Sunday in the ERWFL’s League Plate competition. Stevenage Ladies Reserves at home taking on Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side taking an 18th minute lead a corner returned into the area met by Katie Seagrave her header beating the keeper from close range to make it 1-0. Stevenage quick to reply level just 4 minutes later breaking with Histon appealing for a foul up the other end, Sherrie Evans getting the goal to make it 1-1. All square the game remained heading into extra-time. Histon winning the game in the 1st period of extra play, Kaya Haq scoring a superb goal from a 25 yard free kick sending a curled ball high to drop into the back of the net to send Histon into the League Plate final. Their opponents with be either Newmarket Town Ladies or Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who met in the league this Sunday setting their semi-final up nicely.
ERWFL Premier Division
Royston Town Ladies returned to winning ways this Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division as they look to secure the runners-up spot in the league. The 2nd placed side at home to Haringey Borough Women. Royston taking the lead from the penalty spot Jo Rutherford making it 1-0, added a 2nd to double the lead with Eva Ramsey scoring from out wide to make it 3-0 Haringey puling a goal back before the break their keeper making some important saves to limit Royston to 3 goals. Francesca Smithers returning to action for Royston on target to bring up their 4th goal, Rutherford lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick to bring up her 19th goal of the season and see Royston win the game 5-1.
Royston Town Ladies, Jo Rutherford
A home win too for Colney Heath Ladies against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday, goals from Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 victory the 3 points lifting Colney Heath over the Essex side into 8th position in the Premier Division.
ERWFL Division One
With ERWFL Division One leaders St Ives Town Ladies not in action this weekend it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to close the gap down to just 3 points in preparation for the two sides meeting this coming Sunday. A tough local derby this weekend away to fellow Essex side Hutton Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea in good form however unlucky in 13 games in the league a single goal winning a tough battle between the sides Sophie Dowman’s 14th goal of the season extending the run to 14. A trip to St Ives now where they will be looking to end the league leaders unbeaten record.
2-2 when the sides last met in the league Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in Division One were away 5th placed Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Goals from Rosy Wodhams and Becky Scola seeing Hoddesdon into a 2-1 lead with 25 minutes left Newmarket then reduced 10 with goalkeeper Dominika Szary sent off being adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area. Yasmin Woodfield donning the keepers gloves Newmarket having scored through Annabel Cuthbert kept battling getting themselves back on level terms Cuthbert with her 10th goal of the season, the visitors dramatically winning the game with seconds left on the clock Cuthbert lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick. The two sides meeting at Newmarket this coming Sunday in the League Plate semi-finals haven’t yet seen both this season and this is where I shall be.
A big win for King’s Lynn Town Ladies at home this Sunday as they continue to build momentum going into the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final in just a fortnights time. This Sunday they were playing at The Walks home of King’s Lynn Town FC, taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. A strong first half performance seeing King’s Lynn leading 7-0 with hat-tricks for both Oksana Imanalijeva and Tiffany Forshaw along with a goal for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. A further two goals added in the 2nd half with Becky Russell scoring and Imanalijeva getting a 4th to her name. The win taking King’s Lynn into 7th and in a great position to challenge for a top half finish.
Lawford Ladies were at home this Sunday in ERWFL Division One taking on bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts winning the game 3-1 thanks to goals from Stacey Teager, Jodie Sharp and a 1st of the season for Claire Gauntlett. Again like King’s Lynn well placed to push on up the table in their final 4 matches. Poppy Kelly scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
All about the Cup this Sunday in the ERWFL with the League Cup reaching the last 16 and the League Plate kicking off with the quarter finals. The 1st two rounds of the ERWFL Cup contested by the Division One sides, the Premier Division sides entering in the New Year. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, St Ives Town Ladies, Hutton Ladies & Lawford Ladies the 4 Division One sides to progress to the 3rd Round of the Cup. 7 of the 8 ties played on Sunday with the match between Colney Heath Ladies & Lawford Ladies postponed.
Acle United Women the current holders of the ERWFL Cup were drawn away to St Ives Town Ladies in the last 16. The Division One newcomers 2nd in the table unbeaten in the ERWFL so far this season, a good test of their mettle up against the current Premier Division leaders. The sides goalless at half-time St Ives goalkeeper Kira Markwell making saves to keep Acle out as the visitors pressed for the opening goal, St Ives holding out to see the game enter extra-time, a long ball forwards causing seeing a mix-up at the back from Acle, Tierney Coulson capitalising to score her 18th goal of the season to see St Ives knock the holders out.
Division One leaders, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were hosting Premier Division side AFC Dunstable Ladies in the last 16 of the ERWFL Cup on Sunday. Finalists last season Dunstable struggling at times for numbers this season had just the 10 this Sunday were trailing at the half-time interval by a single goal Sophie Dowman breaking their resistance in the 33rd minute to put Bowers & Pitsea into the lead. Dunstable got off to a fantastic start in the 2nd half level within 2 minutes of the restart going on to take the lead 5 minutes later. Bowers & Pitsea with a quick response levelled it back at 2-2 4 minutes later with Holly Moore turning the ball home for her 1st goal. Dunstable battled well getting themselves back into the lead with 20 minutes left a cross/shot finding its way into the back of the net for 3-2 proved to be the winning goal, Dunstable advancing thanks to a goal from Storm Sherry Burrows and a brace for Samaira Khan.
Hutton Ladies were drawn away to Premier Division side Cambridge City Ladies in the last 16 of the ERWFL Cup. The Essex side missing a few key players up against a side 2nd and unbeaten in the league above. Cambridge City have a strong and deep attacking line-up and they proved too strong for Hutton as they ran out 8-1 winners to reach the quarter finals of the competition. Bella Simmons, Erin Davies & Shannon Shaw all scoring a brace for the hosts with Charlotte Gillies & Carla Penny also on target with a goal each. Vicky Kinsman with the goal for Hutton.
Also advancing to the quarter finals of the ERWFL Cu are Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. The side 3rd in the Premier Division drawn at home to the side immediately below them in the table, Royston Town Ladies. The hosts with a strong finish to the game scoring 4 goals in the last twenty minutes to clinch victory. Emma Pollard opening the scoring in the 1st half putting Peterborough into the lead. Royston battling hard equalising late in the 1st half through Joanne Rutherford. Royston had chances in the 2nd half to take the lead Peterborough’s top scorer Katie Steward restoring the hosts lead making it 2-1, the attacker adding her 2nd with 10 minutes left. Chanade Henderson scoring with a glancing header from a free-kick to make it 4-1 with Steward completing her hat-trick in stoppage time to see Peterborough win 5-1.
Essex side Harlow Town Ladies were away to Haringey Borough Women in the last 16 of the ERWFL on Sunday. Haringey winning the trophy in their double winning season two seasons ago. Have struggled since as they look to rebuild their squad. Harlow fielding a young hungry squad progressing to the quarter finals thanks largely to a hat-trick from Poppy Binding making her joint top scorer with 8 goals now. Olivia Steele also scoring a goal in a 4-0 victory.
A hat-trick for Harlow Town Ladies, Poppy Binding
It was a close match in the last 16 of the ERWFL Cup with an unfortunate own goal settling the result between Bedford Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday. The Norfolk side travelling to Bedfordshire the sides in mid-table in the Premier Division it looked an evenly matched contest, Bedford the side capitalising on the own goal to reach the quarter finals.
Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies made the trip over the border to Suffolk on Sunday to play AFC Sudbury Ladies in the last 16 of the ERWFL Cup. Goals from Danielle Butler, Leah Cowan and Cerys Adams making her 1st start for Brentwood seeing the visitors win 3-0 to reach the last 8.
ERWFL Plate
Those sides in Division One losing in the early stages of the ERWFL Cup go onto contest the Plate competition and with 8 sides left this Sunday saw it open with the quarter finals. Stevenage Ladies Reserves finalists last season through to the last 4 this time around without kicking a ball awarded an away win over Bishops Stortford Ladies.
That left 3 ties to be played Newmarket Town Ladies making the trip to Hertfordshire to play Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. Hertford bottom of the league making Newmarket work, took the lead before the visitors came back to level the scores through Abbi Griffin early in the 2nd half. On the hour Newmarket took the lead Jodie Woodfield heading the ball in from a Jess Linger corner. Less than 10 minutes later it was the same outcome from a Linger corner just with a different Woodfield heading the ball in to give Newmarket a 3-1 lead captain Bethany Woodfield getting on the scoresheet. The win made secure 5 minutes later from another corner this time Abbi Griffin credited with the goal getting her 2nd of the game.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies were at home in the quarter finals of the ERWFL Plate on Sunday taking in Norfolk side King’s Lynn Town Ladies who had the bare 11 available. Hoddesdon taking an early lead with Kristina O’Connell finding the back of the net in the 7th minute. King’s Lynn created opportunities to level 1st half held Hoddesdon to 1-0 at half-time. The hosts with the numerical advantage with subs to bring on a quick-fire brace from Natasha Crick firing Hoddesdon into a 3-0 lead within the opening 15 minutes of the 2nd period, a further 2 goals added on the hour with substitute Rosy Wodhams making it 4-0 before O’Connell struck her 2nd of the game Hoddesdon winning 5-0.
Histon Ladies were away in the quarter finals of the ERWFL Plate a trip on Sunday to Essex to play Hatfield Peverel Ladies. An own goal on the stroke of half-time seeing the Cambridgeshire side take the lead. Histon doubling thier advantage on the hour through Georgina Huse scoring her first goal for the club helping them to reach the semi-finals of the competition.
Another double bill of Cup Finals this Sunday from The County Ground in Letchworth from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) this time around. The League Cup to come but first up it’s an 11:00am kick-off between Hutton Ladies & Stevenage Ladies Reserves for the League Plate Final.
Hutton Ladies the current holders of the ERWFL Plate after a 1-0 win over Colney Heath Ladies last season. Were the underdogs then and once again they will be seen as the underdogs as they take on fellow league Stevenage Ladies Reserves who having won the ERWFL Division One South title are looking to complete the double.
Hutton Ladies with one more league game to play finishing fourth in the ERWFL Division One South table. Have already claimed silverware this season lifting the Essex Women’s Trophy with a 2-1 win against Silver End United Ladies. A tough challenge against Stevenage Ladies Reserves in this season’s Plate Final but can use last season’s result as inspiration and the knowledge they were the side to eventually bring an end to the league champion’s 100% winning start to the season.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves have led the ERWFL Division One South table from start to finish winning their opening 10 games not conceding a single goal in that period either. Both records broken in February by today’s opponents Hutton Ladies in a 3-2 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves have conceded just 9 goals in total from 18 league games this season whilst scoring 81 up the other end. Clinching the league title with 4 games to spare are looking to end the season with the double.
Road to the Final
The nature of the Plate, the sides knocked out of the League Cup in the opening rounds entering the competition. The Division One sides in from the North & South contesting the early Rounds of the League Cup.
Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Plate. Into the quarter finals Hutton Ladies were away to Division One North side, Cambridge United WFC Reserves, the game all square at 90 minutes the sides drawing 2-2 it was Hutton who went on to score the winning goal in extra-time. Stevenage Ladies Reserves drawn at home to fellow Division One South side, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies progressed to the last 4 of the Plate with a 3-0 victory.
Into the semi-finals and contrasting games for both sides Hutton Ladies at home were taken all the way to extra-time once again after a high scoring game with Division One North side, Histon Ladies 3-3 after the 90 minutes was up into the extra period Hutton getting themselves in front went on to add a 2nd goal to reach their 2nd successive final with a 5-3 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves were at home in the semi-finals against fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies and booked their place in the Plate Final with another 3-0 result.
The County Ground, Letchworth home of the Hertfordshire FA the venue once again for this season’s ERWFL Finals. The main seated stand housing the clubhouse and bar the changing rooms beyond. A nice wide pitch looking in very good condition with plenty of grass cover. The weather good, warm with the sun trying to get out cloud cover for the morning kick-off for the 1st of today’s matches.
Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Nicola Walker, Rianne Dimmock, Hannah Page (C), Kelly Roberts, Amy Crumpler, Kaitlin Sugg, Keeley Walker, Lucy Critchell, Kate Lowen & Laura Allen. Subs – Patrizia Leo & Lucy Blurton.
It’s Stevenage to get the ERWFL Plate Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing an all blue kit with red and white piping around the collar and sleeves of the shirts. Hutton kitted out in their all red kit with white across the shoulders of the shirts. Becky Day playing the all out into the right channel for Daniela Martucci to chase the Hutton defence can see it safely out for an early goalkick. Stevenage make progress down the left, Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover coming out of her area to kick the ball clear see’s striker Laura Allen after it to attack the Stevenage area, Amy Notschild across the get in front of her and clear the ball for a throw.
Emily Schofield with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves
The ball pressed early on cut out at the back. Allen and Kate Lowen try to link up through the centre to attack the Stevenage defence the attempted one two cut out Notschild. The first corner of the game awarded to Stevenage, Hayley Wood-Thompson to play the ball into the box the ball half cleared Emily Schofield on the right hooks it back in towards go, Martucci closing in on it near post, Glover has it safe on her gloves first. Holly Darling slides in to deny Hutton’s Critchell as Crumpler plays the through ball to her on the left.
Stevenage counter attack breaking forwards Hutton back tracking conceding a corner on the left side Schofield to play it in Kelly Roberts with the stooping header near post defends for Hutton. The ball coming onto Wood-Thompson just outside the box left of the D, goes to strike the ball her effort charged down. Lowen and Allen are looking to combine once again through the middle for Hutton as Kaitlin Sugg plays the ball forwards, Notschild getting in between them to break up the attack.
Hutton’s Kelly Roberts, tackles Stevenage’s Becky Day as she s about to shoot
Lucy Critchell finding room to run into on the left lifts a cross into the area, Stacey McConville clearing for Stevenage a rapid counter is launched the ball played on to Wood-Thompson coming away with the ball left side looks to put Hannah Marshall in behind on the opposite flank send the diagonal ball crossfield, Nicola Walker defending well for Hutton Ladies at left back. Working hard early on to break up Stevenage’s flow, Hutton are gaining encouragement from their play.
Hutton Ladies, Lucy Critchell
Bringing the ball on over half way Sugg send the ball forwards releasing Lowen through on goal as she bursts in behind the Stevenage defence, right of goal into the box, takes an extra touch, enough to allow goalkeeper Emily Goodacre coming towards her to slide in and save at the strikers feet. Stevenage press players forwards Schofield moving out to the right to gather the ball, Hutton captain Hannah Page gets across to challenge the striker 20 yards from goal. Roberts intercepting inside the box as Wood-Thompson looks to run in on goal from the left as a high ball from the right is fired into the Hutton area.
Stevenage haven’t settled Hutton are lively looking to close down everywhere on the pitch. A free-kick awarded to Hutton 35 yards out left of the centre circle players go forwards as Lowen plays the ball in long towards the far post, Sugg getting up highest sends her header into the back of the net Hutton celebrate thinking they have taken the lead, but no the flag is raised for offside it doesn’t stand. Another free-kick to Hutton same position only right of the centre circle this time Amy Crumpler to deliver this time long to the far post again headed down back across the six yard box, Rianne Dimmock there for Hutton but no opportunity to shoot as she is quickly closed down and Stevenage scramble the ball away.
Martucci spinning off her marker in the middle releases the ball into Schofield’s run on the left, sends a cross long the top of the six yard box, no one gambling for Stevenage. Hutton get it clear. A chance created for Stevenage on their left as Wood-Thompson goes to charge down a defensive clearance the ball spinning into the D, Page looking to control under pressure from Schofield the ball prodded into the area with Marshall coming onto it her shot straight at Glover the keeper making the save.
Stevenage’s Hayley Wood-Thompson looking for options as she brings the ball forwards
Hutton are battling for everything frustrating Stevenage in the process. Riding their luck at times Dimmock slicing her clearance the ball spinning favourably into the box for Glover to grab. Goodacre with an excellent save to deny Hutton from another set-piece similar to the earlier one on the left a little closer this time Crumpler goes for goal the ball arrowing in high on target central Goodacre throwing herself at the ball punches it over the crossbar.
All action the ball from one end to the other Dimmock sending a shot wide from a corner at the near post for Hutton. Laura Henning charging a Hutton ball down in half way brings in on fires a pass into Martucci back to goal inside the D she spins off her marker sending the ball on into the box Wood-Thompson arriving can’t quite bring it down on her chest to set up a shot the ball running wide. Hutton make a change, Walker coming off Patrizia Leo coming on the move seeing Critchell dropping deeper.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Daniela Martucci
A free-kick wide right for Stevenage the ball played in towards the top of the box Martucci with a clever flick to send the ball on into the area, no one there however Glover can claim unchallenged. Keeley Walker snapping at the ball in midfield wins it from Day plays it on for Lowen right side she plays it on into the area near post Allen closing her down Goodacre stays composed claims the ball. Glover with a top class save at the other end to deny Schofield the ball played into the striker on with the ball she arrives at the top of the area Glover coming to close her down Schofield looks to prod the ball wide of her, almost succeeds Glover however manages somehow to get her foot in the way of the ball and deflect it away for a corner.
Stevenage bring the ball on possession on the right brings a corner kick the ball played into six yard box Sugg heading away for Hutton, out of the area Day with the looping header back in Martucci interested, Glover comes punching the ball away from the strikers head. Hutton get the ball forwards Walker on for Lowen a one tow with Allen the ball sent on for Lowen to chase right side McConville goes with her concedes the corner.
A late opportunity in the first half for Stevenage to take the lead, awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position left of centre Martucci with the right foot strike a superb effort the ball swerving as it flies in on target bring a magnificent save from Glover falling back as she throws her hand towards the ball the merest of touches diverting it onto the crossbar, rebounding back into play Hutton scramble away for the corner. Coming in from the right Glover is fouled as she comes for the ball right on the stroke of half-time.
Goalless at the break one side with a goal disallowed the other striking the bar a really interesting contest and proof that the form book can go out the window in a cup final. Stevenage haven’t really settled yet into any rhythm, frustrated, Hutton have worked well right across their side to pressure the ball and break up attacks have created opportunities themselves as they have been encouraged by their performance. Defending well at the back Glover with a couple of crucial saves. Stevenage know they can play better and will no doubt look to come out strong in the 2nd half. Hutton if they can duplicate what they have achieved in the 2nd half will be hard to break down.
Hannah Page, defending for Hutton Ladies
Hutton kicking off the 2nd half start confidently Critchell bringing the ball on from the left looks to take the ball infield is tackled by Notschild. Stevenage build on the right the ball fed on for Schofield turns inside towards the goal into the area her shot in towards the near post not troubling Glover. Walker with good work in the midfield for Hutton gets her pass on for Lowen right side holds it up before turning her marker and sending in a cross long towards the far post just out of Allen’s reach.
Keeley Walker for Hutton Ladies getting to the ball before Stevenage’s Becky Day
Stevenage get froward on the left Schofield moving into the channel has the ball squares it inside to Evans 30 yards out central time to line up a strike pulls the effort wide of the left post. Schofield is covering alot for ground up top getting into good crossing positions for Stevenage, the final ball more often than not collected by Glover. Critchell is yellow carded as she tugs back Wood-Thompson trying to get inside her from the right. The free-kick from a wide position sent over the bar. Stevenage make a change Darling coming off to be replaced by Izzy McAree.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves captain, Sherrie Evans
Martucci with an opportunity to play the ball in towards goal from a set-piece left of goal 30 yards out as Hutton with away a free-kick, her strike wide at the near post. Day come on with the ball for Stevenage on for Marshall has Schofield on her left giving her the ball she is tackled by Dimmock as she charges at the Hutton defence. Hutton’s Walker intercepts a cross from the left from Marshall getting back as Evans breaks forwards through the middle.
GOAL! Seemingly out of nothing the deadlock is broken and it’s Hutton who take the lead the ball brought on though the middle Hutton have players forwards lined up across the top of the Stevenage penalty area the ball is played into Lowen inside the D she flicks the ball on sending it looping up high into the area, dropping towards goal Goodacre back on her line tries to palm it out from under her crossbar her glove caught in the net can’t get to it as it drops past her into the goal, Hutton take the lead, everyone converges on Lowen in celebration so I had to check afterwards to be sure it was her 1-0.
A valuable lead for Hutton. Stevenage look for a quick reply Day bringing the ball on the pass out to Martucci, Page coming across defending well for Hutton. Henning winning the ball as she moves forwards for Stevenage is allowed to travel with the ball has a pop at goal from distance her strike straight at Glover positioned central in the Hutton goal. Stevenage attack Evans getting the ball out to Schofield moving clear on the right a run at the Hutton defence cuts back inside getting into the box sends a fierce cross along the six yard box Martucci arriving far post meeting it sends the ball over the Hutton crossbar.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Laura Henning
Marshall attacks on the left for Stevenage runs into too many bodies as Hutton close the gap in front of her. The ball cleared is picked up by Henning and fired back in Martucci with the shot puts the ball straight at Glover the keeper with a comfortable save. Hutton make a change Crumpler coming off on comes Lucy Blurton. Hutton continue to work hard to break up the play, Page and Roberts both getting to the ball first as Stevenage play it forwards for Martucci and Marshall to chase down.
Hannah Marshall with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves
Lowen receiving the ball as she breaks into the right channel looks to knock it past McAree, the Stevenage defender putting in the challenge to win the ball. Marshall left side fires a cross infield into Martucci position top corner of the Hutton box, shows great control to bring the ball down and swivel into the shot like so many others before it however the ball is straight into Glover positioned at her near post taking it low into her body. Hutton build an attack Walker on for Lowen central inside her is Allen playing the ball into her Walker has run on into the box Allen picking her out no shot on lays the ball back to Leo 25 yards out curls her shot up over the crossbar.
Leo with another shot at goal moments later as Hutton attack with Lowen on the right squared across the top of the area with Walker central helped onto Leo she fires her strike up over the bar from the edge of the box. Leo with a 3rd effort in quick succession as Allen and Lowen work the ball forwards Lowen attempting to get on the end of Allen pass into the box favours Leo left of goal blasts the ball straight at Goodacre a great blocking save at close range the ball lose Stevenage get it clear of their box. Allen with a dipping volley from outside the box as the ball is put into her from a throw on the left her effort caught easily by Goodacre.
Hutton Ladies, Patrizia Leo
Glover with another fine save to deny Day as she hits the ball back in towards goal after Schofield’s initial shot from the right. Roberts with the near post header defends for Hutton from a Stevenage corner from the left. Stevenage with the change Day the player coming off Stef Cowell coming on with around 10 minutes left on the clock. McConville bringing the ball on for Stevenage inside to Martucci, she plays it on for Schofield her touch taking her inside a run at the box is brought down inside the D by Dimmock. A free-kick awarded Schofield has picked up an injury. Stevenage make the change before the free-kick Schofield helped off on comes Mary Lisle.
The set-piece just a foot outside the box. Martucci on it, a good effort gets the ball up over the wall but also narrowly over the crossbar too. Wood-Thompson is off for Stevenage with 5 minutes left to play Naomi Sleator coming on. Lowen finding room with the ball on the right cuts inside along the top of the box moving across the D gets a shot away back across goal wide of the post.
Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock
Into the closing minutes of the match Hutton get a corner left side played in Evans puts it out near post for a 2nd corner this time Hutton try to hold it up in the corner. Stevenage regain possession fire the ball up to Martucci tries to turn inside run at the Hutton defence Page close on her winning the ball back. McConville with a late strike from distance is straight down Glover’s throat the keeper dropping down onto the ball. That’s it the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate a 1-0 win to win the ERWFL Plate Final for the 2nd successive season.
Full time Hutton Ladies 1-0 Stevenage Ladies Reserves
An impressive performance from Hutton Ladies don’t think they even believed they could do it at the start of the match but just like last season they overcame the odds to win the trophy. Encouraged early on pressing the ball well and defending strongly gained the belief that they could get something going forwards themselves. The winning goal coming in the 2nd half, Hutton looked comfortable afterwards with the narrow advantage. Stevenage created chances and got players forwards just didn’t get the luck of the green today. Glover in the way of anything they threw at her. Miss out on the double and will no doubt feel disappointed but must remember they have dominated the league this season and are the League Champions.
Three trophys in two season’s for Hutton Ladies not a bad return at all.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
There were several contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match in today’s final and I knew my notes were going to have to help me out on this one. It was a strong all round team performance from Hutton in today’s Plate Final. The defence superb, Dimmock, Page and Crumpler. Walker impressed in midfield. The last line of any defence is the goalkeeper however and for Hutton Krissie Glover was behind everything Stevenage put into her box made a number of crucial saves too during the game and she is the ERWFL Plate Final’s Player of the Match.
Hutton Ladies 2017/18 ERWFL Plate Winners
Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning today’s ERWFL Plate Final.
If that was the starter I can’t wait for the main course. Was a really entertaining final Hutton proving lightening can strike twice. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups. A little time to relax before the ERWFL League Cup Final kicks off.
Billericay Town Ladies lead the ERWFL Premier Division by 7 points following a 4-1 win over AFC Dunstable Ladies in their penultimate league game of the season this Sunday. Courtney Clare opening the scoring for the host side Hayley Piggott from the penalty spot doubling the lead further goals from Hope Strauss and Paris Smith seeing Billericay Town go on to win the match 4-1. Danielle Carty with the goal for AFC Dunstable.
2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Royston Town Ladies who had climbed up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division following a 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Ladies in midweek. Becky Shephard scoring to put Royston into a 1-0 half-time lead. Shepard netted again in the 2nd half to double the advantage. Cambridge City came back into it with a goal from Stacey Fullicks to make it 2-1. Sammy Tinsley restoring Royston’s 2 goal lead. Goals from Bella Simmons and Charlotte Gillies seeing the points shared as Cambridge City came back again to draw the game 3-3.
Bedford Ladies were awarded a home win in their final league game of the season leaving them in 3rd spot level on points with Cambridge City Ladies. The fixture against AFC Sudbury Ladies whose league campaign also drew to a close on Sunday.
In 4th position Acle United Ladies again find themselves in the position of having games in hand on the leaders and the potential points available to chase them down a maximum haul seeing them finish level with Billericay assuming neither drop any. A double header this Sunday for Acle United at The Flegg FDC taking on Brentwood Town Ladies.
In the 1st match the 1st half was a fairly even affair the dead lock broken late on a goal from Laura Holden seeing Acle United lead 1-0. A totally different story in the 2nd half Acle United starting well Megan Todd doubling the lead 3 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick goals from Lauren Bullard and Holden with her 2nd of the match putting Acle United 4-0. Brentwood responded with 2 quickfire goals from Nicole Manning and Emma Mackie to get it back to 4-2 A goal for new signing Rosie Filby on her debut put Acle United into a 5-2 lead with late goals from Rhianne Brister and another from Todd making the final score 7-2.
A dominant 2nd game from Acle United saw them take maximum points away from both games. Megan Todd to target with another goal putting Acle United into a 1-0 half-time lead. Goals from Laura Holden then Kirstie kindred making the score 3-0 then Todd struck late on for her 2nd of the game to see Acle United win 4-0.
ERWFL League Plate
Fresh from their Essex Women’s Trophy success Hutton Ladies were looking to reach a 2nd final of the season this Sunday. The current holders of the ERWFL League Plate hosting Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side starting well getting into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Kirsty Smith with the strike to make it 1-0 a free-kick sent in by Hannah Gordon 2 minutes later making it 2-0. Hutton pulled it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. Histon scoring late on with Gordon on target for her 2nd goal of the game to lead 3-1 at half-time.
Hutton came back into the match in the 2nd half scoring twice to get it back all square at 3-3. The semi-final heading into extra-time. The home side taking the lead for the 1st time in the game midway through the 1st period of extra play followed it up with another quick goal to lead 5-3 and held on to win the game and reach their 2nd successive League Plate Final. Hutton’s goals scored by Hayley Critchell, Patrizia Leo, Laura Allen, Katie Lowen and Lucy Critchell. Hutton will be the underdogs against ERWFL Division One South leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves… but then they were also the underdogs last season and beat the odds.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North, Wymondham Town Ladies had secured the league title last weekend away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies with 3 games left to play. Unbeaten dropping points in just the one game to date the Norfolk side travelled to Cambridge United WFC Reserves this Sunday who were playing their last match of the season. The visitors found themselves trailing at the break as Cambridge United scored from a free-kick late in the 1st half, Liz Pamplin sending the ball in from the edge of the area. Wymondham Town started the 2nd half strongly and within 8 minutes of kick-off were back on level terms, striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later Wymondham Town were leading Waters striking again to make it 2-1. Alice Ladbrooke on hand to put the ball home in the 63rd minute after Waters sees her shot saved. 3-1 the winning score two matches left for Wymondham both away to Histon Ladies.
In the other match played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies playing their last match of the season were hosting 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points for the visitors Olivia Baker the scorer for King’s Lynn, have one match to play against 3rd placed Histon Ladies have an 8 point lead over the Cambridgeshire side that game scheduled for the 6th May, King’s Lynn could well secure the runners-up spot before then if Histon can’t end Wymondham Town unbeaten record. A promising start to the season for Ipswich Wanderers Ladies picking up some good results dropping away toward the end of the season will be looking to recruit new faces over the close season.
ERWFL Division One South
Harlow Town Ladies looking odds on now to at the least clinch runner’s up spot in ERWFL Division One South as they moved 9 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies with a home victory against them on Sunday. A single goal scored by Lily Bruno enough to seal the victory. Moves Harlow to within 2 points of leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves who they host on Wednesday. Have played 3 games more however. Results have been against Little Thurrock in the run in as they lose for the 4th time in 5 league matches 4 left to play 3 against Stevenage Ladies Reserves.
One of those losses in midweek away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Stephanie Iaonnou scoring the late winner. A busy week for Hoddesdon Town with 3 games in 6 days. Women’s Football East at their game on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. Danny Barley their new manager in charge for the 1st time. A brilliant start for Hoddesdon Town as Sian Owens struck the ball inside the D inside the opening 30 seconds to find the back of the net and make it 1-0. Hertford Town came back into the game well competing for the ball and defending well against Hoddesdon Town causing some frustration amongst the home side.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell
1-0 the lead at the break Hertford Town felt confident they could get it back all square, Hoddesdon Town making changes during the interval. A close 2nd half the game end to end at times with the quality in the final 3rd Hertford pushing for a leveller conceded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out with 12 minutes left, Kristina O’Connell within shooting range struck the ball well sending it over the keeper and in to double the lead. Hertford Town responded straight away getting up the other end Olivia Worsfold pressuring the defence pouncing on the loose ball and turning it in from the angle for her 1st goal of the season. Not enough ultimately as Hoddesdon Town held on for the 2-1 win. The match report featuring in the previous post.
Back in action just 24 hours later last evening Hoddesdon were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies and ended the night celebrating 3 straight wins. A successful spell ending with a 3-0 victory. Rosy Wodhams with a goal along with a brace for Charley Handley.
Semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Cup. Two tasty looking ties in the last four of the competition too. Premier Division leaders Billericay Town Ladies were away to Acle United Ladies the Norfolk side could yet challenge them for the title. Focus on the League Cup this Sunday a feisty encounter by all accounts. Plenty of action in the first half, Acle United going in front in the 7th minute Lauren Bullard getting the goal 4 minutes later the lead was doubled the hosts scoring from a corner captain, Megan Todd rising to head the ball home to make it 2-0.
Billericay were far from out of the tie and on 22 minutes pulled the score back to 2-1 like Acle United added a 2nd goal a few minutes later to bring it all level at 2-2. Acle United getting their noses back in front with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half Grace Birchall scoring from a free-kick. The 2nd half saw chances fall to both sides Billericay having a penalty shout rejected aswell as striking the bar twice. Couldn’t find the goal however to get it back to 3-3 as Acle United held on for a 3-2 to book their place in the League Cup Final.
In the other semi-final it was another hard game to call with Brentwood Town Ladies hosting AFC Dunstable Ladies on Sunday. Paida Dedza netted a brace for Brentwood Town her goals cancelled with Beth Stanton and Bianca Vassell both scoring for AFC Dunstable to see the sides finish the 90 drawing at 2-2 and heading into extra-time. 5 minutes into the extra period and AFC Dunstable struck to take a 3-2 lead, Samaira Khan scoring what would prove to be the winning goal as Brentwood Town couldn’t find a reply. AFC Dunstable will play Acle United Ladies for this season’s ERWFL League Cup scheduled for Sunday 13th May at The County Ground, Letchworth.
ERWFL Premier Division
Two matches in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday a trip to Suffolk for 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies. A tight first half between the sides a goal from Laura Mills the difference to give the visitors the lead. Cambridge City making the 3 points secure in the 2nd half with Bella Simmons making it 2-0 with her 23rd goal of the season.
Bedford Ladies are in 3rd place in the ERWFL Premier Division playing their penultimate league match at home this Sunday against bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. Another battling performance from Colney Heath they just haven’t been converted into points this season. A single goal for Bedford Ladies scored in the 2nd half enough to see them claim all 3 points.
ERWFL League Plate
Also semi-final weekend in the ERWFL League Plate, just the one taking place however with Hutton Ladies involved in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this Sunday will take on Histon Ladies next Sunday in their Plate semi-final. This Sunday Stevenage Ladies Reserves leading the Division One South table were hosting fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in the last 4. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute, Naomi Sleator with the goal. 1-0 the half-time lead the final berth wasn’t secured until late in the game Emily Schofield scoring from a free-kick making it 2-0. Hannah Marshall also scoring as Stevenage ran out 3-0 winners to reach the final will know their opponents after the weekend.
ERWFL Division One North
Wymondham Town Ladies are the Champions clinching the ERWFL Division One North title this Sunday away to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Favourites at the start of the season to win the title and promotion to the Premier Division following on from a strong debut season in the ERWFL. Are Champions with 3 games to spare unbeaten too with just the one draw in their 15 league games played so far. A 2nd successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final to look forwards to as well at the end of the month.
This Sunday away to King’s Lynn Town, top scorer Laura Nicholls put Wymondham into the lead inside the opening 15 minutes. A purple patch followed as the 1st half approached the half hour, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway and striker Hannah Waters scoring 3 goals in 4 minutes. Waters adding a 2nd goal 5 minutes later. Nicholls getting her 2nd of the match too with 3 minutes left of the 1st half to see Wymondham in full control with a 6-0 lead. Brooke Cheal scoring in the 2nd half Wymondham Town celebrating the title with a 7-0 victory.
Congratulation’s to Wymondham Town Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies, ERWFL Division One North Champions (picture credit Wymondham Town Ladies)
In the other game played in ERWFL Division One North it was a depleted Ipswich Wanderers ladies side that played host to Histon Ladies this Sunday. Just the 7 available they put on a spirited performance but Histon made their numbers count. Abigail Davies putting the visitors into the lead in the 17th minute. Histon captain Sophie Lanham scoring to make it 2-0 midway through the 1st half. Alison Wright netted a goal for 3-0 before Lanham scored her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to see Histon leading 4-0. Sophie Hopkin and Brie Baker both scoring midway through the 2nd half saw Histon consolidate 3rd spot in the table and might yet threaten King’s Lynn Town in 2nd spot with the gap 5 points Histon having a game in hand and have to play King’s Lynn Town one more time this season. Two games against Wymondham Town however and I don’t think they’ll want to let their unbeaten record slip.
In midweek Ipswich Town Ladies Development wrapped up their 1st season in the ERWFL with a home win against Ipswich Wanderers, finishing with a win Ipswich Town ran out 4-0 winners.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday, Harlow Town Ladies opening up a 6 point lead in 2nd position with an away win against Hertford Town Ladies. Both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe scoring two goals each in a 4-1 victory for Harlow Town. Lisa Kline scoring the Hertford Town Ladies goal.
A good point earned by bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies at home to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Heather Martin and Samantha McComish her 1st of the season seeing the hosts draw the game 2-2. Ebony Moore and Sophie Dowman scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos who pick up a point after two successive defeats, still have games 3 games in hand on 2nd placed Harlow Town.
A few postponements affecting the ERWFL this Sunday as pitches remain water logged following the recent snow fall and a new band of rain coming in over Friday and Saturday. Two matches beat the weather in the ERWFL Premier Division with the top two Billericay Town Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies in action.
Billericay Town Ladies 7 points clear at the top of the table were at home on Sunday taking in local rivals Brentwood Town Ladies. A hat-trick from captain Lindsey Morgan (pictured) along with a strike from top scorer Paris Smith seeing the hosts to a 4-1 victory. Marie barker with the goal for Brentwood. With 4 league games left for Billericay they have a healthy lead at the top of the Premier Division table and know if they pick up maximum points from those matches that they cannot be caught.
Second placed Cambridge City Ladies are enjoying a strong season themselves, a narrow victory on Sunday moving them onto 26 points 4 clear of 3rd placed Acle United Ladies who have 3 games in hand. At Creasey Park taking on 7th placed AFC Dunstable Ladies. A hard fought win Stacey Fullicks netting the goal to give Cambridge City the lead, finished the game with 10 however with Sarah Mosley sent off.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding quarter final tie to be played in the ERWFL Cup at last took place on Sunday between two sides that have had to endure a long period of inactivity. Acle United Ladies in action again for the 1st time in 5 weeks, for Royston Town Ladies the whole of February was a washout their last game on 28th January a few midweek matches coming up to help get them back on track.
On to the match both sides creating chances the deadlock was broken late in the 1st half with Royston getting their noses in from Hayley Graham putting the ball into the back of the goal to give the hosts a 1-0 half-time lead. Royston coming close to doubling their lead early in the 2nd half, Acle pushed them looking to get back on level terms the equaliser coming on the hour Laura Holden making the run to put Megan Todd’s cross home. Into the final 20 minutes and Acle went on to take the lead, Todd on target to make it 2-1. Royston battled to get back level the tie settled in the final minute as Acle’s Kate Pasque scored to make it 3-1 and send Acle through to the semi-finals where they will be away to Billericay Town Ladies.
ERWFL Plate
Like the ERWFL Cup one outstanding tie remained in the quarter finals of the Plate competition with Division One North side Cambridge United WFC Reserves hosting Division One South counterparts Hutton Ladies. This one looked to be a really close one on paper two sides evenly matched and the tie itself when all the way to extra time. Teonie Peyton putting Cambridge into the lead the hosts holding a 1-0 advantage at the break. Hutton coming back in the 2nd half to level the scores through a Laura Allen goal. The tie heading all the way into extra-time, Lucy Critchell scoring her first goal for the club to win the tie for the Essex side setting up a semi-final clash at home to another Cambridge shire side Histon Ladies.
ERWFL Division One North
One game played in ERWFL Division One North on Sunday top versus bottom with Silver End United Ladies travelling to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. The hosts getting off to a fast start in recent games scoring in the opening minutes, Silver End working hard to keep their goal intact were awarded a free-kick past the half hour, Megan Jiggins on the set-piece sending the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0. A lead at the break Wymondham Town came back to level the scores 20 minutes into the 2nd half striker Hannah Waters brought down inside the box, top scorer Laura Nicholls stepping up to put the ball home for 1-1. Late drama the winning goal coming in the final minute of the match it was jubilation for Wymondham, heart break for Silver End with Nicholls hitting her 37th goal of the season for a 2-1 win taking Wymondham 4 points clear at the top of the table.
ERWFL Division One South
One game also in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend and a big one too with 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies hosting 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies both side in contention for runners-up spot 3 points between the sides. Always going to be a competitive fixture Sophie Dowman getting on the scoresheet for Little Thurrock, Harlow Town getting goals through Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscomb to claim the 3 pints with a 2-1 win takes them into 2nd above Little Thurrock on goal difference.
Quarter finals weekend in both the ERWFL Cup & Plate competitions a place in the last 4 up for grabs all the sides knowing where and who they will face in the semi-finals should they progress. Unfortunately a postponement in each competition in the Cup Royston Town Ladies home tie against Acle United Ladies being called off. Elsewhere in the Cup it was very tight with few goal scored and two ties going all the way to penalties.
A clash of the league leaders as Division One North forerunners Wymondham Town Ladies travelled down for an overnight stay in Essex to take on Premier Division leaders Billericay Town Ladies. The sides drawing 0-0 at the break Wymondham giving it their all striking the post whilst Billericay’s goalkeeper Robyn Strauss produced some excellent saves. The game won by a single goal in the 2nd half by another Strauss in the 65th minutes. U18s player Hope Strauss scoring her 1st senior team goal to send Billericay into the semi-finals.
AFC Dunstable Ladies were at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies in the quarter finals of the ERWFL Cup both given a bye in the previous round it was another close contest Sudbury unlucky not to score in open play striking the crossbar the tie was goalless heading into extra-time still neither goal could be breached onto penalties. Even that was close as AFC Dunstable nudged their way into the last 4 winning the shootout 6-5.
A close match too in the last quarter final played between Bedford Ladies at home to Brentwood Town Ladies. Separated by a place in the Premier Division the sides drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes Setor Acolatse scoring the goal for Bedford, Georgia Holdaway with her 9th goal of the season for Brentwood the tie moving into extra-time. With neither finding a winning goal there was once again a penalty shootout, Brentwood the side advancing with a 5-4 win to book their place in the last four.
That leaves the semi-final draw looking like this: –
Royston Town Ladies or Acle United Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Brentwood Town Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies
The semi-finals of the League Cup scheduled to be played Sunday 8th April.
ERWFL Premier Division
One match played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday, with Writtle Ladies moving up a place to 4th in the table with a win at home to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. The sides going into the changing rooms at the break with the scores all square at 0-0. Writtle went on to claim the win in the 2nd half, goals from Amy Simmons, Leanne Stubbings and Georgina Tricker sealing a 3-0 victory.
ERWFL Plate
Like the ERWFL Cup one of the 4 quarter final ties fell foul to the cold weather, Cambridge United WFC Reserves match at home to Hutton Ladies called off.
Histon Ladies from Division One North were hosting Division One South side, Hertford Town ladies in the Plate quarter finals. Reached the last 4 with a comfortable result, Abigail Davis scoring a hat-trick with Katie Seagrave also getting a goal in a 4-0 win.
Two all Division One South quarter finals, Bishops Stortford Ladies were at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday. The visitor getting their noses in front in the 21st minute, Kristina O’Connell with the goal. Bishops Stortford responded quickly to falling behind Daniela Ferraro levelling thing’s up 4 minutes later. 1-1 at half-time Hoddesdon went on to reach the semi-finals with two goals in the last 15 minutes of the 2nd half Hannah Kelly putting the visitors 2-1 up on 75 minutes, O’Connell with her 2nd of the match scoring just 4 minutes later to secure the 3-1 win.
In the other all Division One South quarter final in the Plate, league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves were taking on 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. The sides sharing a close contest in the regular 90 minutes neither able to break the deadlock the game heading into extra-time. A different story in the extra period as Stevenage took the lead going on to get two more goals to win the tie 3-0 to book their semi-final spot. Hannah Marshall with a brace, Emma Marshall getting the other goal.
That leaves the semi-final draw looking as follows: –
Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
Cambridge United WFC Reserves or Hutton Ladies v Histon Ladies
The semi-final ties scheduled to be played Sunday 8th April
ERWFL Division One North
One match played in the ERWFL Division One North on Sunday featuring the bottom two, Silver End United Ladies buoyed by reaching the Essex Women’s Trophy final last weekend travelled to Ipswich Town Ladies Development. In the end it was a crushing defeat for Silver End as Ipswich Town Ladies Development recorded an 8-0 win to move 10 points clear of them with their 4th win of the season.
3rd time lucky for the ERWFL League Cup for the 3rd Round tie yet to be played postponed twice in December because of bad weather rolled over into the New Year. Acle United in the end progressed without kicking a ball their game away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies postponed twice already off this Sunday as King’s Lynn couldn’t field a side having to forfeit. More sad news coming out from King’s Lynn Town Ladies with coach Joe Simpson leaving his role with the club instrumental in the women’s sides recent success he will be a loss to the game wish him all the best for the future.
Of the other two sides from the Division One North still left in the competition both were hosting Premier Division opposition at home tough games for both. Wymondham Town Ladies taking on Essex side Writtle Ladies. The hosts starting the game well however Wymondham 2-0 up inside the opening 12 minutes, top scorer Laura Nicholls continuing the great form she showed towards the end of 2017 scoring on 6 minutes, Hannah Waters recently signed having been at Lowestoft making it 2-0. That the lead at half-time Writtle pulled it back to 2-1 with Leanne Stubbings on target before Wymondham restored their 2 goal lead Nadine Basson making it 3-1. Nicholls with her 2nd of the game making it 4-1 4 minutes later. Georgina Tricker made it 4-2 for Writtle with 10 minutes left, Wymondham with the win the only side outside the Premier Division to make the League Cup quarter finals.
A tough test at home to for Ipswich Town Ladies Development also hosting an Essex side in the 3rd round of the League Cup, Billericay Town Ladies the visitors. Paris Smith was on the scoresheet with 5 goals in the tie for Billericay with both captain Lindsey Morgan and new signing Georgia Box getting a brace each the final score 10-0 to Billericay.
One tie yet to be played in the 3rd Round of the League Cup an all Premier Division clash with Royston Town Ladies playing Colney Heath Ladies this coming Sunday.
Will publish the full details of the quarter final draw on twitter once I have the final line-up.
ERWFL League Plate
One tie played in the 1st Round of the ERWFL League Plate competition another postponed twice already Histon Ladies were at home at the Glassworld Stadium taking on fellow Division One North side Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. A brace form Sophie Lanham along with a goal each from Abigail Davis and Katie Seagrave sealing Histon progress with a 4-0 victory.
ERWFL Premier Division
Two games played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday featuring sides in the lower half of the table. Bedford Ladies in 6th were hosting Royston Town Ladies in the bottom 3 looking to try and close the gap to the sides in mid-table. Goals from Samantha Edgar and Sammy Tinsley seeing Royston Town start the year with a win just their 2nd in the league this season along with 3 draws to move them onto 9 points.
A 7 goal thriller between AFC Sudbury Ladies and Brentwood Town Ladies, the side from Essex leaving with all 3 points in the back edging the score 4-3, Angela Arnold netting a brace, with a goal each for Georgia Holdaway and Nicole Manning sees Brentwood continue their recent good form winning 3 of their last 4 league games to climb out of trouble. Rebecca Chandler with one and Mia Etheridge with a brace scoring for AFC Sudbury who slip to 2nd bottom following Royston’s win.
ERWFL Division One North
Another match that had been postponed twice at the end of 2017 was finally played this Sunday in ERWFL Division One North with Cambridge United WFC Reserves hosting Essex side Silver End United Ladies. Goals from Lucy Gateson and Bethany Morrell seeing Cambridge United claim all 3 points with a 2-1 win. Rebecca Donnelly scoring for Silver End United. Cambridge move above Histon Ladies into 4th in the table their highest position in the league so far this season.
ERWFL Division One South
Two matches played in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday and league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves relentless good form continues from where they left off in 2018 now winning 10 straight league games scoring 58 along the way now and still yet to concede a goal. Were playing bottom side Hertford Town Ladies this Sunday. Scoring 6 goals in the match with 6 different names on the scoresheet, Sherrie Evans, Amy Josland, Daniela Martucci, Stacey McConville, Naomi Sleator and Jenny Hepton all grabbing a goal.
Harlow Town Ladies were playing just their 6th league game so far this season on Sunday in 3rd place in the Division One South table were hosting Hutton Ladies. Both on 9 points, Harlow with the superior goal difference moved 3 points clear after the final whistle with a 3-0 win, Lily Bruno, Frances Gamble and Rosi Webb in her 2nd appearance for the club netting her 1st goal.
Welcome to this our second newsletter of this season. In this edition we cover:
Constitution 2017/18 & Cup Draw
Referees
FA Women’s Conference
Funding- Charter Standard
But first. Many congratulations to all clubs that are doing well in their county cup competitions and those that have had a good run in the FA Cup. Pride of place must go to Harlow Town who have reached the second round proper of the competition. We do wish Harlow every success; a great game with right result!
Constitution
Really good news that all clubs appear to have settled back into the “3 Division” framework and we do hope you’re enjoying the games and competition. So how are first division teams finding it? Be very interested to know.
Disappointed that we have now lost 3 teams, 2 from the Premier Division would you believe and Offley & Stopsley from the first Division South. We did seek help from County FAs to try and recruit more players, but at this level in the game most players that want to play are already signed up, so it’s all a bit difficult. There’s no doubt that having a continuous supply of fresh players coming through a youth set up is the way to go.
It’s also interesting to have a look at the number of players registered for each team over the last couple of seasons and the number that have dropped by the wayside and compare this with the number recruited. You can do this through looking at Full-time, so check it out for your club and ask yourself, “Are we bringing through sufficient players to cover those that move on?” Worth thinking about talking to your County FA development team perhaps.
Fixtures
As with the last few seasons, we reach into November and think we’re doing well; up with the league schedule and the cup rounds. But then, the weather kicks off and come the end of February we wonder how we’ll get all the games in. So if the weather does start to take a grip then do fight back and try and get your games played; but without any health and safety issues mind you. Think about doing a deal with a local all-weather pitch facility. Try setting something up as a fall back now, you then get priority access and a better deal.
Now the exciting bit, the cup draw!
League Cup
Round 3 to be played on 10th December 2017
Match 1
Wymondham
V
Writtle
Match 2
Royston
V
Colney Heath
Match 3
Ipswich Development
V
Billericay
Match 4
Kings Lynn
V
Acle
Match 5
Harlow
V
Brentwood
Match 6
Cambridge City
V
Bedford
Bye
AFC Dunstable
Bye
AFC Sudbury
League Plate
Round 1 to be played on 10th December 2017
Match 1
Histon
v
Ipswich Wanderers
Round 2, Date to be arranged
Cambridge United Reserves
v
Hutton
Winners of Match 1
v
Hertford
Bishops Stortford
v
Hoddesdon
Stevenage Reserves
v
Little Thurrock Dynamos
We do hope you enjoy these games and wish you all every success!
Referees
Our project of working with County FAs to appoint referees to clubs in their county for home matches has continued successfully.
But, do always check out with the appointed referee that they know: where they are going, kick off time and match details (Cup or League). And do make sure you get conformation from them that they are going to do the game. Also, thinking about it, be good to give them your mobile contact details, and, always get their mobile number in case of an emergency.
Many thanks also for feedback you’re providing on the performance of our referees. Don’t forget the standard marking process is:
Marking range
Description
91 – 100
Excellent
81 – 90
Very Good
71 – 80
Good
61 – 70
Acceptable
Below 60
Unacceptable
So there it is, don’t go giving referees silly marks, up or down and don’t forget to use the form if you’re going to mark the referee down.
FA Women’s Conference
Peter and Jim recently attended a meeting of the Women’s Conference that included some discussion on the structure of the women’s pyramid.
The FA have reviewed the upper end of the pyramid and some restructure agreed that will be put in place over the next few seasons and now they have commissioned some work to start reviewing regional and county levels in the game.
So during the upcoming months do be thinking about the structure at our regional level in the pyramid and how you think improvements can be made to help current clubs and attract more teams and clubs into the game at our level.
It looks like the FA will be running some roadshows, one of which maybe at a meeting of ours, and we’re sure your ideas will add considerable value to the process.
Funding- Charter Standard
Earlier this season we were able to provide match balls and bibs for those in technical areas and we do hope you’re making good use of these.
We were able to do this through a partnership with Nike, but chiefly through financial support provided by the FA.
To access FA support we produce a Development Plan that’s agreed with the FA and this year we’ve again submitted our plan and we meet with the FA at the end of November for them to consider our proposals.
Again, we’ve included footballs for all our clubs and in fact we’ve already received a £1000 administration grant from them towards our ongoing costs through this plan.
An expectation from the FA is that all of our clubs achieve Charter Standard status so please help us help you by maintaining your Charter Standard accreditation.
Don’t forget we still have funding available to support emergency first aid qualification, to better ensure match day health & safety, and to cover the cost of any physio support your players may need. Contact our Treasurer, John Bacon, for details.
For the 3rd Sunday in a row the Supporting Women’s Football Blog was covering a cup final double this time from the ERWFL as they hosted the League Plate and Cup Finals at The County Ground, Letchworth. The league season at least in the Premier Division done and dusted a fortnight ago in Division One Hutton Ladies and Champions, Cambridge City Ladies had to face each other in their final games both involved in this Sunday’s action. Hutton Ladies reaching the Plate Final were the underdogs as they took on Division One runners-up Colney Heath Ladies who had reached their 3rd successive Plate Final. Cambridge City Ladies had reached the League Cup Final were looking to make it a double but so too were opponents, Haringey Borough Women who had won the Premier Division, the report from both games can be read below.
ERWFL Plate Final
Cup Final Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Hutton Ladies
Another busy Sunday on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog heading to the County Ground, Letchworth for this season’s ERWFL Final’s day, 1st up an 11am kick-off for the Plate Final between Colney Heath Ladies and Hutton Ladies.
The Plate competition for the sides from ERWFL Division One in it’s various guises over the past few seasons that don’t go beyond the quarter-finals of the league cup, Colney Heath Ladies have reached the last 3 finals in succession, runners up in the previous two will be looking to go one batter this time and win the final. Have grown as a side over those past 3 season’s having had their best season to date clinching 2nd place in the Division One table.
Will play Essex side Hutton Ladies this time around into their 1st ERWFL Plate Final have had an up and down season in the league flirting with the top 4 at one point fell away in the end to eventually finish 9th. Behind on their fixtures have had competitive football right up to this weekends final. Colney Heath have kept thing’s ticking over with friendly matches over that same period.
Road to the Final
Beginning with the quarter-finals this seasons plate competition saw Colney Heath drawn at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies edged the score 3-2 to reach the semi-finals. Opponents Ipswich Wanderers Ladies couldn’t field a team for the semi-final Colney Heath advancing without kicking a ball to the final itself.
A Bye for Hutton Ladies in the quarter-finals were drawn at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves in the semi-final always looked a close contest on paper and proved so on the day the scores level at 2-2 after 90 minutes the semi-final went into extra-time, Hutton Ladies finding the winning goal to make it into the Plate Final.
The County Ground in Letchworth, Hertfordshire once again the venue for this season’s ERWFL Finals. The large grass pitch has seen alot of cup final action recently but with the unusually dry weather in April has held up well looks in good shape a large pitch. The mainstand providing covered seating down one side behind the dugouts the bar situated at one end the Pukka Tukka trailer the other 1st stop upon arrival for a bacon bap. Rain to start the day however this was clearing and the sun warming things up a slight breeze chilly in the shade.
Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Amy Mullett, Kelly Hancock, Adrienne Milton, Rachel Sherlow, Kelly Glynn, Kirsty Feasey, Lucy Hancock, Annie Hickey, Sophie Joseph (C), Holly Sheridan & Christina Freestone.
subs – Jennifer Mansfield, Sammy May, Molly Slade, Eustacia Randles & Victoria Allen.
Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Kirsten McLeavy, Amy Crumpler, Kelly Roberts, Rianne Dimmock, Amy Reed, Kaitlin Sugg, Hannah Page (C) Kate Lowen, Hayley Critchell & Laura Allen.
subs – Sam Kuski.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
An 11am kick-off for the Plate Final, Hutton to get the match started 1st half wearing red shirts with white across the shoulders and collar, with red shorts and socks. Colney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts. A quiet start to the game both sides looking to put the ball out wide test the others back line.
Hutton’s Kate Lowen goes after a high ball put forwards by Kaitlin Sugg out to the right wing is tracked by Colney Heath’s Adrienne Milton makes the tackle putting the ball out for a throw deep in the corner. From the throw the ball helped on loops up into the area Sugg has the ball headed into the side of her face as the Colney Heath defence win the header comes back out to the right the return ball into the box cleared by Rachel Sherlow.
“We’ll have that!”
A positive start from Hutton pressing Colney Heath for the ball inside their own half, win a corner on the right, then the left side the inswinging ball striking the post coming back out into play is scrambled clear. Colney Heath get the ball wide out to the right winning a throw high up the pitch the cross is fired into the six yard box behind the strikers attacking the ball, Amy Reed gets the ball out of the area for Hutton goes straight to Lucy Hancock all of 30 yards out central, meets the ball sweetly with her boot sending it arrowing back in towards goal, Krissie Glover in goal for Hutton can’t stop it strikes the crossbar smashed down into the six yard box, Colney Heath striker Christina Freestone is on it in a flash gets her foot up to met the ball in the air is straight at Glover into her body the keeper gets a firm grip on the ball to save.
Colney Heath Ladies striker, Christina Freestone knocks the ball on into the box
Colney Heath continue to come on with the ball 10 minutes played Milton is fouled by Hutton’s Amy Crumpler wide left on halfway the ball played up into the box is headed away by Rianne Dimmock a throw in the left the ball played up into the area Freestone strikes it as it falls at her feet is blocked deflected behind a for corner. Hutton defend look to break, Anne Hickey tackles to regain possession in the middle the ball on into Freestone takes a pop from distance her curling shot only finding the goalkeeper.
Colney Heath captain, Sophie Joseph holds the ball up as it is played into her feet on the left, Milton goes past her on the overlap the pass finding her her cross into the box finds Freestone near post, looks to find room for a shot no way past Hutton’s Kirsten McLeavy marking her closely put back out to Joseph arriving left side of the box the ball is played back into the area, knocked back out centrally comes to Hickey strikes the ball from outside the box the shot whistling over the crossbar.
Colney Heath Ladies captain, Sophie Joseph
A vital interception from Hutton’s McLeavy at the back as Freestone seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out turns spotting Holly Sheridan on the move on the right, had the ball found her would have been one on one with the keeper. A competitive start, Hutton do’t want Colney Heath to settle on the ball as working hard to hustle the ball. Get up the other end Lowen winning a corner on the right the ball sent in near post is cleared by Colney Heath’s Kelly Hancock.
Milton and Joseph link up on the left side going forwards the cross played in early across the top of the area finds Sheridan on the right outside the area, leaning back as she goes to strike the ball sends her shot across goal looping up starts to dip, not enough to fall under the crossbar. Hutton make an early switch Sam Kuski coming on for Reed midway through the 1st half.
A great chance for Colney Heath to open the scoring in the Plate Final as Hickey bringing the ball on through the middle puts it into Freestone before bombing forwards getting the ball returned to her left outside the area, Hutton’s Kelly Roberts goes to ground making the tackle, The ball isn’t away Hickey wriggles clear with it in behind into the area, looks to pick her spot across the keeper coming to close the angle, Glover makes a fantastic stop with her leg to deflect the ball away across her six yard box.
Annie Hickey wins the header under challenge from Hutton’s Sam Kuski
Colney Heath continue to create chances as they look to break down a stubborn and organised Hutton defence, Kirsty Feasey carries the ball on through the middle evading a challenge plays a great ball into Sheridan moving to the right into the box is closed down by Kuski as she goes to shoot the ball put a yard wide of goal. Amy Mullett has been little troubled in the Colney Heath goal Glynn and Sherlow winning most thing’s in front of her.
The same two players involved as Colney Heath come forwards again this time it’s Sheridan with the ball taking it down the left puts the cross in along the top of the Hutton area runners coming on from midfield, Feasey arriving right side hits the ball 1st time straight at Glover in the Hutton goal the keeper claiming the ball. Kelly Hancock joins the build up on the right side going on with the ball cuts it back into the area Sheridan just inside shoots from the angle again the shot goes straight into Glover.
Front of picture, Colney Heath Ladies, Kirsty Feasey
Into the final minutes of the 1st half Colney Heath are stepping it up a level looking to find the break through, Dimmock and Roberts closing down any attempt made to get though the middle. If Colney Heath find a way through the shot is going straight into Glover the keeper well positioned throughout. Feasey plays the ball on for Sheridan with acres of space to run into on the right, puts the ball into the area, Roberts clearing for Hutton in front of Freestone.
Half-time Colney Heath Ladies 0-0 Hutton Ladies
Goalless at the break as the two sides head back to the dressing room. An intriguing 1st half, Colney Heath on another day might be leading 3-0 however Hutton have defended well kept a good shape and Glover has been in the right place everytime Colney Heath have gotten a shot away from the edge of the area. Little opportunity up the other end Critchell and Lowen getting on the ball left and right trying to thread the ball through the middle Colney Heath’s centre backs, Kelly Glynn and Sherlow have converged quickly to close the door in front of goal. All to play for 2nd half.
Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway. Attacking down the left the cross is cut out cleared by Dimmock, Kelly Hancock picks it up coming forwards down the right, cutting inside rolls the ball into Feasey, time to line up a shot from 25 yards out, same as in the 1st half is straight at the keeper Glover making a comfortable save. Hickey comes forwards with the ball into the middle has Sheridan drifting out wide right top of the area plays the ball into her, she puts it into Freestone inside her right of the d 20 yards out her shot is blocked by Hutton’s Roberts rebounds back out to Hickey 25 yards out right side of goal shoots the ball fired wide of the far post.
Freestone gets hold of the ball turning centrally the pass finds Sheridan to her right, looking to drive at the Hutton defence is closed down by Dimmock, with support from Critchell the pair regain possession of the ball. Lucy Hancock plays the ball into Freestone holding it up well right, Sheridan makes a run into the area, Freestone looks to thread the ball into her feet, Roberts does well closing her down and winning the ball in the six yard box. A risky back pass from Dimmock as Colney Heath put the ball straight up through the middle, bouncing Freestone flicks it on for Sheridan falling down into the area Dimmock holding the striker off volleys the ball into her keeper, little time to react Glover meets the ball in the air volleys it out of her box.
Hutton Ladies, Kelly Roberts
Hutton’s Kuski charging down the ball inside the Colney Heath half on the right goes on before sending it long on the diagonal for Lowen left side, gets the down and manages to keep hold of the ball as Kelly Hancock goes to ground for the challenge moving into the box left looks to shoot, Sherlow recovers getting back throwing her herself across Lowen’s path to make the block.
Both sides make a change, Hutton bringing Reed back on for Kuski. Eustacia Randles coming on for Colney Heath replacing Freestone. The substitute filling in at left back with Milton coming across to right back, Kelly Hancock pushed higher up the field. Colney Heath have a free-kick in a dangerous position 22 yards out left of the D, Feasey over the ball goes for goal, Glover calls for it and claims at her far post.
Hutton Ladies captain, Hannah Page getting hold of the ball
20 minutes left on the clock Hutton get players forwards Allen winning a throw on the left put in long into the area, Sherlow heads away for Colney Heath, Joseph picking up the ball looks to counter, Page comes in to tackle her wins the ball back as they continue to defend.
GOAL! Against the run of play it’s Hutton who break the deadlock finding the back of the Colney Heath goal, the ball won in the middle by Page is played up top with Critchell on the move left side getting onto the ball looks to take the defender on in front of her is pushed wide as she enters the area then unchallenged in the box sends a looping ball in towards goal up and over the keeper into the back of the net 0-1. A blow for Colney Heath attack straight from the restart winning a corer kick on the left the ball floated in centrally, Glover comes for it going to push takes it off Feasey’s head on the penalty spot, catches the player aswell as the ball but is okay after treatment. Jennifer Mansfield comes on for Colney Heath replacing Hickey. Dimmock with a controlled header back to her keeper a Sheridan tries to flick the ball on a Kelly Hancock coming forwards plays the ball into her.
Colney Heath Ladies, Kelly Hancock
Closing in on the final 10 minutes Colney Heath make a triple substitution as they try to break down Hutton’s stubborn defence. Molly Slade, Sammy May and Freestone returning come on for Glynn, Kelly Hancock and Joseph. Lucy Hancock on through the middle for Sheridan the tackle made by Dimmock outside the box. With room at the back now as Colney Heath push on Allen taking the ball down the right wins a corner. coming in near post is knocked on towards goal, back on her line Mullet punches the ball away.
Feasey makes ground with the ball coming through the middle, fires the ball up towards Freestone chests down and turning rolls it into Sheridan right of her into the area, closed down she slides in gets to the ball 1st, her strike narrowly wide of the post. Hutton bring Kuski back on for Crumpler. A long ball from right to left falls to Mansfield inside the box on the left, looks to bring it down and shoot, Reed gets back in time to close her down tackling put the ball behind for the corner. A good delivery going long to the far post, no one can connect sails out for a goal kick.
All out attack from Colney Heath as the game goes into stoppage time players swarming around the box but Hutton defend for their lives protecting their lead, Glover coming well plucks the ball of Feasey’s raised foot as the midfield tries to bring down a high ball put in from the right. That’s it the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate winning the ERWFL Plate Final.
Full time Colney Heath Ladies 0-1 Hutton Ladies
Joy for Hutton Ladies winning the final. Heart break for Colney Heath Ladies suffering defeat for the 3rd successive final would have gone in confident after their successful league campaign, and created a host of chances especially 1st half just couldn’t get the ball past Glover in goal. Hutton the underdogs performed well battled hard were resilient and took the lead with one of the few chances they fashioned in the 2nd half.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
It’s that resilience and determination in defending that sees today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match go to Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock defended superbly winning the ball, getting across Colney Heath attackers and making some vital interceptions.
Hutton Ladies, ERWFL Plate Final Winners 2016/17
Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning the ERWFL Plate Final today.
My thanks to referee Chris Abbott for helping me out with today’s team line ups.
ERWFL Cup Final
Cup Final Report – Haringey Borough Women v Cambridge City Ladies
Onto the 2nd Final of the day at the County Ground, Letchworth the ERWFL Cup Final. Will be a league and cup double for whoever wins the trophy this afternoon with Premier Division Champions, Haringey Borough Women taking on Division One Champions, Cambridge City Ladies.
A great season for both clubs at the top of their respective leagues all season going all the way to win the title and promotion. For Haringey Borough Women it was a poignant triumph to win the ERWFL Premier Division doing so for their former manager Steve Browne who tragically lost his battle with cancer over the New Year. The squad clinching the title with a final day win against challengers Acle United Ladies to achieve promotion to the FAWPL above for the 1st time in their history, now the chance to make it a double success with the league cup.
So to for opponents Cambridge City Ladies however after they won the ERWFL Division One title in their 1st season playing at regional level following promotion as Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Champions last season. Just the one defeat on their way to the title wrapped it up with 4 games to spare. An ambitious club are looking to follow Haringey Borough Women’s success and reach the FAWPL. A good test of their credentials taking on the Champions from the league above.
Road to the Final
All the sides from the ERWFL’s two divisions enter the League Cup competition. The Division One sides contesting the 1st two rounds, the Premier Division sides entering in round 3.
A Bye for Cambridge City Ladies in the 1st Round were drawn away to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies in the 2nd Round a 1st half goal from Charlotte Gillies enough to send Cambridge City into the 3rd Round. Faced fellow Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies from the Premier Division away from home Cambridge advanced to the quarter finals with a 3-0 victory.
A trip to Norfolk in the quarter finals to play eventual Premier Division runners-up Acle United Ladies. Won through to the semi-finals with a narrow 2-1 win to reach the semi-finals and another tough test away to another Premier Division high flyer AFC Dunstable Ladies. Bronte Rapley and Bella Simmons with the goals to send Cambridge City into the final.
Haringey Borough Women were drawn away to Colchester Town Ladies in the 3rd Round, after a goalless 1st half strikers Klesha Darroux and Julia Carruthers both scored to seal a 2-0 win to put Haringey Borough into the quarter finals.
Were awarded a home win over Division One side Silver End United Ladies to advance to the quarter finals where they were away to Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies holding their own in 3rd place in the Division One table following promotion this season. Haringey Borough proving to strong in the end wrapping up a 4-1 win to reach the final.
A 2 hour window between today’s finals giving me the opportunity to devour a bacon sausage and egg bap very tasty it was too. All the cloud had burned away it was a hot sunny afternoon for the League Cup Final at the County Ground.
Haringey Borough Women starting XI – Cherkish Young, Brooke Hills, Shernelle Francois, Roisin Cormack (C), Robyn Reardon, Shaydean Gorman, Morgan Lundberg, Karesha Iton, Anele Komani, Klesha Darroux & Julia Carruthers.
subs – Roxanne Eshun, Shanice Nourrice, Jaidene Brown, Martina Stankova & Stephanie Cooper
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Robyn Phillips, Emily Reed, Sarah Mosley, Grace Stanley, Charlotte Gillies, Stacey Fullicks & Bella Simmons.
The sides gather on the centre circle before the match a minutes silence, Haringey wearing black armbands with their former managers name on. Cambridge to kick-off the ERWFL Cup Final wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Haringey opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. A good atmosphere building the Haringey supporters in good voice willing their team on.
A competitive start to the match the ball pinging back and forth between the sides Anele Komani picking the ball up in the middle puts it over the top for striker, Julia Carruthers in behind, Cambridge goalkeeper, Tee Mhunduru off her line early gets to the ball 1st. Cambridge send the ball long out to the right Charlotte Gillies fouled in the corner gets the free-kick. Played into the box Haringey goalkeeper, Cherish Young claims at her near post.
GOAL! Haringey take an early lead in the final the ball quickly releases by Young is helped on through the middle, Carruthers after the ball bouncing high on the hard surface drifting right into the box gets the wrong side of the defender can’t hold her off the striker seeing the ball into her feet smashes her shot low and hard past the keeper into the back of the net 1-0. An early set back for Cambridge push on with the ball down the right from the restart Emily Reed on for Sarah Mosley then Gillies down the line a spell of possession the ball rolled back to Mosley top of the area 20 yards out right side, shoots puts her strike wide of the near post. Komani receiving the ball from Morgan Lundberg goes forwards tries to put it on for Carruthers again central into the box, Cambridge’s Robyn Phillips gets in front of the striker this time shields the ball as Mhunduru comes to gather.
Bella Simmons up top for Cambridge sees the ball into her feet back to goal central 30 yards out rolls her marker sending Grace Stanley away on the left taking the ball down the line looks to turn inside get into the area, Haringey captain, Roisin Cormack closing her down cuts out the cross and clears. A free-kick for Cambridge inside the Haringey half in front of the centre circle captain Becca Fay over the ball looks to go for goal plenty of power behind her shot Young isn’t troubled however as it flies past her right post.
A free-kick for Haringey inside their own half wide right, Brooke Hills over it plays it into Komani who spins in behind the Cambridge defence right side taking the ball on into the box reaching the six yard box goes to shoot a vicious strike, Mhunduru makes a superb save with her leg going to ground the ball deflected out for the corner kick. Before the corner can be taken the trainer is called on with Komani down in the box, injured has to come off Jaidene Browne comes on.
Cambridge City Ladies goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru
GOAL! Haringey double their lead as the corner kick by Hills from the right is played long across the six yard box falling far post, power and accuracy on the header by Darroux arriving late sends the ball home to make it 2-0. 15 minutes played Haringey look dangerous going forwards, Stacey Fullicks tracks back to tackle Lundberg as she looks to play the ball into Carruthers go on beyond her. Keeping the ball Haringey win a corner on the right, Hills with another long deliver, Emily Reed gets her head on the ball for Cambridge. Lauren Tomlinson fouls Lundberg as she looks to get away on the right the set-piece half way inside the Cambridge half Hills on it puts it up into the box, Mhunduru calls and gets up to claim.
Bella Simmons fouled by Robyn Reardon as she tries to protect the ball
Fay sends the ball up field for Stanley on the left her first touch sends her in behind the Haringey defence wide of the area, Cormack recovers the ground well getting in on Stanley to play the ball out for the corner. The delivery towards the top of the area is gathered by Mosley looks to put it back into the six yard box, Robyn Reardon wins the header for Haringey knocks it out to the right, Simmons on it takes the ball into the area before shooting her low strike in towards the near post saved by Young.
GOAL! Haringey go straight on the counter attack getting players forwards as Cambridge look to get back into position from the corner, the diagonal ball put long out to the right is send long into the box Karesha Iton arriving unmarked meets the ball on the volley far post buries it into the back of the net 3-0.
Haringey’s Karesha Iton up to win the header
3 goals conceded after the opening 20 minutes Cambridge are well and truly on the back foot, manager Tim Rapley calls for a positive response, getting the ball out to Gillies on the right she takes it down the line twisting and turning back inside the lay off for Mosley a long way out meets the ball on the volley puts the shot wide of goal.
Haringey get in behind on the right Browne taking it on plenty of pace, into the box Tomlinson recovering well manages to close her down just as she goes to shoot the strike swerves away from goal out for the goalkick. Tomlinson wins the ball of Lundberg on the left puts it long for Stanley to go after running into space Cormack coming to close her down concedes the corner kick. Curled in towards the near post the low ball strikes the post and goes behind.
Cambridge City Ladies, Lauren Tomlinson
A turn and shot from Iton inside the D as the ball is put into her by Lundberg from a throw in on the right her shot up over the crossbar. Cambridge make their 1st change, Simmons coming off up top Phillipa Witherspoon coming on. Browne latches onto a goalkick from Cambridge right side lays the ball inside for Carruthers knocked up into the air the striker looks to strike the bouncing ball as it falls 25 yards out her looping shot sails over the crossbar.
Lundberg has taken a knock hurt her arm or shoulder is taken off, Roxanne Eshun coming on for Haringey. Cambridge make a change at the same time Saffron Henry coming on for Emily Reed. Another knock for Haringey’s Shernelle Francois a few minutes later sees her replaced by Shanice Nourrice. Haringey are awarded a free-kick inside the Cambridge half, central, Hills to play it forwards into the top of the area, Klesha Darroux is through on goal as the Cambridge defender going to clear the ball slips, the Haringey attacker stabbing the ball up off the surface outside the six yard box lifts her shot up over the goal.
Browne strikes the near post from close range as she cuts into the area from the right the ball out for a goalkick. Nourrice looks to take the ball past Tomlinson down the line the left back with a robust tackle takes out the winger and the linesman as she crashes into him, Nourrice coming off the better on her feet, it takes the linesman several minutes to get back to his feet. From the resulting free-kick Hills sends the ball in towards the top of the box, knocked out to the left Darroux sends in back into the middle, Iton onto the ball is flagged offside.
Haringey Borough Women’s Shanice Nourrice
Haringey finish the 1st half strongly the ball from Nourrice into Carruthers through the middle in behind, shoots as Mhunduru comes racing out to close her down, the ball past the keeper she might have gotten her fingertips in the ball, enough to take it wide of her empty net beyond.
Half-time Haringey Borough Women 3-0 Cambridge City Ladies
A fantastic start to the 1st half from Haringey Borough Women sees them in control of the ERWFL Cup Final with a 3-0 lead could have added more goals power and pace players on the move early when possession is regained at the back, Cambridge have been on the back foot as they looked to find a response, a lot of work to do if they want to find a way back into the game 2nd half.
A change of personnel at the start of the 2nd half the linesman injured late in the 1st half not returning, a replacement available as one of the officials from this mornings Plate Final is still in the ground. A change too for Cambridge with Fullicks substituted, Carla Penny on taking up a left attacking position with Stanley now in behind Witherspoon through the middle. Haringey to get the 2nd half underway. Amy Reed wins the ball for Cambridge plays it up towards Witherspoon lays it onto Mosley 25 yards out her 1st time strike is wide.
Cambridge press forwards early 2nd half the ball towards the D, Stanley and Witherspoon try the one two get the free-kick a dangerous position left of the D, Penny over the ball lines up a shot her attempt over the bar. Pushing forwards Cambridge have to watch they aren’t caught on the counter attack Reardon with the ball plays it up to Eshun who looks to slide Nourrice through into the box right side, Mhunduru is rapidly out sliding in to claim the ball at the attackers feet.
Haringey Borough Women’s, Robyn Reardon
A fast tempo to the beginning of the 2nd half, Nourrice with a driving run with the ball down the right wing whips the cross into the area cleared by Phillips at the back for Cambridge, getting it up the other end a throw deep on the right played long into the area by Henry, cleared by Hills, trying to bring it forwards Amy Reed comes onto the ball getting hold of it pushing forwards lifts it up in to the box, dropping for Witherspoon the striker turns as the ball falls puts her foot through it, straight at Reardon who makes the block.
Cambridge City Ladies striker, Phillipa Witherspoon
Amy Reed is fouled wide on the right wing as she gets forwards with the ball the set-piece is played long into the box Penny coming in far post plants her header wide of the goal. Mosley comes on with the ball evading a challenge space for Gillies to move into right, Mosley picks her out getting into the box her low drive is hit hard, Young right behind it gets down holds onto the shot. A change for both sides Komani returning to the field for Haringey in place of Darroux. Tomlinson off for Cambridge, Izzy Broadbent on.
Amy Reed bringing the ball forwards for Cambridge City Ladies
A chance for Haringey to extend their lead Komani in the thick of the action as soon as she returns to the pitch the ball into her feet slides it on for Carruthers into the area left side of goal, is closed down by Reed stabs her shot narrowly wide of the post. A give and go between Gillies and Stanley through the middle, Gillies with the shot from 25 yards out Young scrambling across her goal sees it whistle past the top corner of her goal.
GOAL! The high tempo from Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half has caused Haringey some problems not as able to bring the ball out from the back now it brings them the goal they were looking for the ball fired into Witherspoon inside the box back to goal control and strikes it on the turn, straight at Reardon the defend with instinctive stab to try and clear the ball puts it straight into Stanley’s path far post the no 11 blasting the ball into the back of the net, quickly retrieving the ball and running back to the centre circle.
Has been a bit of niggle between the sides throughout some strong challenges both sides up for it however the referee keeping a lid on things. Midway through the 2nd half Cambridge make a double switch, Simmons coming back on along with Rachel Pearce, Witherspoon and Mosley the players taken off. Haringey send Darroux back on for Hills. Iton picks up a knock and is replaced by Francois.
Eshun comes off for Haringey, Lundberg back on as Cambridge pile everyone forwards a 2nd goal their for the taking would get them right back into the final have switched to 3 at the back now. Play is stretched Cambridge win a corner of Cormack taken from the right Haringey scramble it away near post launch a counter Browne bursting forwards moving right her cross looping up into the area cleared by Fay.
Fay over a free-kick on the left delivers the ball into the top of the area, Lundberg headers clear for Haringey. Haringey have some of the loudest supporters I’ve heard at a women’s game in a long while, they are loving it willing their team on. Hills comes back on in place of Nourrice for Haringey. Simmons gets bowled to the ground in the middle players go forwards into the box from the back for Cambridge, Stanley to put the ball into the mix falling to Fay on the penalty spot the Cambridge captain puts her head in her hands in despair as her turn and strike goes over the bar. Lundberg is injured again in alot of pain holding her arm has to come off, Iton comes back on.
GOAL! Late into the game desperate to find a 2nd goal Cambridge are hit on the counter to concede a 4th goal, Haringey getting Komani in behind on the right travelling towards the box, Mhunduru comes racing out of her area looking to kick the ball away, miscues her strike putting off Komani as she falls the grounded keeper knocks the ball away from Komani before she can recover unfortunately the ball rolls straight into the onrushing Iton 25 yards out an empty goal to aim at she doesn’t miss 4-1. Into stoppage time Cambridge keep going get the ball down the other end have a corner on the left, Henry gets her head on the ball knocking it down inside the six yard box Haringey clear.
GOAL! Penalty! Haringey launch a rapid counter attack players from both sides racing up the pick put on for Komani she drives into the box, Henry gets back on her but leaning in brings the attacker down and the referee points to the spot. Browne to take it, roars in celebration and it buries under her team mates as she powers the ball into the corner of the goal 5-1
Jaidene Browne lets out a roar as she scores from the penalty spot late in the game
Full time Haringey Borough Women 5-1 Cambridge City Ladies
Not long after the final whistle blows and Haringey Borough Women complete a league cup double winning the ERWFL Cup Final 5-1 to cap off a great season one for their former manager looking down upon them. A strong performance 1st half had Cambridge on the back foot right from the start with a 3 nil lead in control of the final. Cambridge did rally 2nd half and put in a great effort to try and fight their way back into the game scored had other chances only to be hit on the break with 2 goals as they sacrificed space at the back.
Haringey Borough Women celebrate their league & cup double after the final whistle
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
A determination about Haringey Borough Women today to get the job done and win the double, that spirit shown throughout the side none more so than Jaidene Browne she is the SWF Blog – Player of the Match.
Congratulations to Haringey Borough Women on a memorable season winning the ERWFL Premier Division and League Cup.
A tribute to former manager Steve Browne the Haringey players and supporters releasing balloons into the sky
A great 1st season playing at a higher level for Cambridge City Ladies too, winning the Division One title and getting all the way the League Cup final.
An entertaining League Cup final to cap of an enjoyable if long day out at Letchworth. My thanks to both clubs for their help with today’s teams and to the ERWFL committee members for their help today. Three cup double Sunday’s in a row I’d sleep well tonight if I didn’t have two match reports to write up! But you know I love it really.
