Tag Archives: FAWPL League Cup

The Round-Up – FAWPL 23/10/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 23rd October

This weekend in the FAWPL their was just the one league game with the focus on the 2nd Round of the Cup and Plate comprtitions, 9 ties across both featuring sides from the Southern and South East Division One.

FAWPL Southern Division

In the FAWPL Southern Division C&K Basildon Ladies were at home hosting Swindon Town Ladies and Canvey Island FC. The visitors coming into the game off the back of a confidence boosting 7-0 win away to Queens Park Rangers Ladies last Sunday. Battled hard 1st half despite C&K Basildon creating plenty of chances the score remained goalless at the break. That changed 4 minutes into the 2nd half C&K Basildon getting the lead a goal from Sara Sinclair. The home side continued to press for a 2nd goal, Swindon resiliant keeping them at bay until deep into injury time, Lily Mellors putting the result beyond doubt in the 93rd minute to see the game won 2-0.

FAWPL Cup 2nd Round

martin Tottenham Hotspur Ladies the FAWPL Cup holders continued their defence of the trophy at home taking on last seasons beaten FAWPL Plate finalists, Enfield Town Ladies. Had the majority of the play in the 1st half, the South East Division One side hard to break down Tottenham got into the lead 6 minutes before half-time Wendy Martin (pictured) with the goal. Martin went on to score 2 goals in 2 minutes 15 minutes into the 2nd half to complete her hat-trick. Lucia Leon adding another goal to make it 4-0 with 15 minutes left. Manager Karen Hills brought Martin off with 5 minutes left replacing her with goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne playing outfield up front almost scored straight away. Enfield pulled a goal back late on with two minutes of normal time left, Ellie Taladiana with the goal. Injury time and Wayne is played through in behind the Enfield defence racing into the box puts her shot past the keeper into the back of the net to score! Tottenham winning 5-1 to advance into the last 16.

  Was an all FAWPL South East Division One clash at Corinthians FC, the new home for Gillingham FC Ladies this season unbeaten in all competitions so far this season were taking on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Despite having the majority of the ball 1st half found it hard to break down a well drilled Milton Keynes Dons defence. The visitors creating the best chance young goalkeeper Katie Startup saving well from a powerful header driven in near post the follow up headed onto the crossbar. A change of formation and the introduction of striker Kallie Balfour did the trick 2nd half for Gillingham, Balfour breaking down the left driving the ball in across thre keeper near post. Balfour adding a 2nd her shot from inside the box going through the keeper to make it 2-0 see Gillingham into the last 16 where they will be away to Tottenham Hotspur Ladies. This game was the featured match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and the entire report can be found further down the page or by clicking on the link below. 

Gillingham FC Ladies 2-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 23/10/16 

Postponed last weekend after heavy rain on the South coast, FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC in fine form at the start of the season made long trip down to Gosport borough FC to play FAWPL Southern Division side Portsmouth FC Ladies. Cambridge have been building a strong squad to mount a promotion challenge added 2 more signing earlier in the week, Danielle Puddefoot coming in after a prolific season in front of goal for Queens Park Rangers Ladies last season, also joining is Mollie Kmita who joins her sister Rosie in signing for Cambridge.

Both Kmita sisters started the match and it was Rosie who gave the visitors an early lead in the match had a few more chances to extend Cambridge’s lead 1st half however Portsmouth kept the scoreline down to a single goal chances up the other end equalised late captain Gemma Hillier making it 1-1 in 1st half injury time. Portmouth went on to take the lead 2nd half Sarah Kempson scoring in 61 minutes. Their lead didn’t last long Cambridgegetting it back to 2-2 within 3 minutes Nicole Perschky on target. Portsmouth were to go on and score again Kempson with her 2nd goal 6 minutes from time enough to see them edge the result 3-2 to advance into the last 16.

 Another side riding high in FAWPL South East Division One are AFC Wimbledon Ladies, they were at home in the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on Southern Division opposition in Crystal Palace Ladies. The sides battled out  a goalless 1st half, Crystal Palace took the lead over their lower division opponents 12 minutes into the 2nd half, Gemma Bryan putting them ahead. The lead was doubled in the last 10 minutes, Rochelle Shakes making it 2-0 for Crystal Palace to see them through to the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.

It was also an FAWPL Southern Division side taking on South East Division One opponents in the last game to bring you from the FAWPL Cup 2nd Round with Coventry United Ladies the current FAWPL Plate holders taking on Denham United Ladies. Once again it was goalless at the break their lower league opponents had to break down. The deadlock was broken midway through the 2nd half, Ashleigh Neville getting the goal to give Coventry the lead made sure of the result in the last 10 minutes of the match, Jade Brook and Helen Dermody both netting a goal to see Coventry into the last 16 with a 3-0 win.

  The draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWPL Cup was make earlier this week, ties scheduled to be played Sun 6th November selected ties featuring sides in the Southern and South East Division One listed below, 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Gillingham FC Ladies

Cardiff City Ladies or Larkhall Athletic Ladies v Basingstoke Town Ladies or Chichester City Ladies.

Charlton Athletic Women v Portsmouth FC Ladies

Crystal Palace Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

FAWPL Plate 2nd Round

Queens Park Rangers Ladies were without a single league point this season in the Southern Division as they made the long journey to the Suffolk coast to play South East Division One side Lowestoft Town Ladies in the FAWPL Plate 2nd Round. An good contest 1st half Lowestoft doing well against their higher league opponents conceded late in the 1st half Juliette Denny scoring for Queens Park Rangers in the 4th minute of 1st half injury time to give the Southern Division side a narrow lead going into the dressing room at half-time at Crown Meadow. 

Queens Park Rangers started the 2nd half strongly, extending their lead on 54 minutes Jessica Treharne with the goal. Looked to be safely through to the last 16 of the Plate competition when Sara Ezzahiri scored to put them 3-0 up with 10 minutes to go. Late drama in the match however Lowestoft winning a penalty 2 with 2 minutes of normal play left, Gemma Moore scoring from the spot. Millie Cursons putting the ball in the back of the net on 90+1 to make it 3-2. Denny having scored in injury time 1st half repeated the feat 2nd half scoring her 2nd in the 93rd minute to see Queens Park Rangers win their 1st game of the season taking them through to the next round.

A long journey west for West Ham United Ladies in the FAWPL Plate 2nd Round taking on South West Division One side, Cheltenham Town Ladies. The 1st game of a new era for West Ham United Ladies under new management having been brought under the umbrella of the men’s club were introduced at half-time to the West Ham United fans at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday. On the pitch against Cheltenham got off to a great start Katie Bottom putting them ahead on 15 minutes from the spot after she was brought down in the area. Cheltenham battled hard, putting alot of effort in to keeping the lead down to a single goal at half-time. Started the 2nd half better gaining momentum, Louise Fensome pulling the scores level at 1-1 the game looked to be heading into extra-time, Chloe Burr getting on the ball driving forwards and rifling home a shot in injury time to see West Ham United win 2-1 to progress the last 16.

 An all South East Division One clash in the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Plate saw Ipswich Town Ladies travel down to play Actonians Ladies. The home side knocking their Suffolk opponents out of the Plate with an emphatic win. Alessandra Barreca scoring a hat-trick for Actonians, with goals too for Emma Mulhern, Carla Williams and Sinthujah Sooriyakumar seeing them advance in the competition with a 6-0 victory.

South East Division One side Stevenage Ladies still looking for their 1st league win of the season made the long trip down to the South West to play fellow Division one side Exeter City Ladies. Had won big in the FA Women’s Cup 2 weekends ago giving the squad some confidence. That confidence was extended with another cup win as they returned home with a place in the last 16 of the FAWPL Plate secured following a 4-0 win.

The draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWPL Plate was made earlier in the week, ties scheduled to be played Sunday 6th November, selected ties below featuring sides in the Southern and South East Division One. 

     West Ham United Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies

Lewes Ladies or Maidenhead United Ladies v St Nicholas Ladies

Actonians Ladies v Queens Park Rangers Ladies

Stevenage Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

 

Match Report – Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Sunday’s match action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Cup an all South East Division One clash between Gillingham FC Ladies and Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

Match Report – Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

 
  This Sunday’s match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Premier League Cup an all South East Division One clash between Gillingham FC Ladies & Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

  A Determining Round played at the start of the competition with the winning sides going on to contest the FAWPL Cup, the losing sides going into the FAWPL Plate.

  Gillingham FC Ladies are unbeaten in all competitions at the start of the season. Games in hand on all the sides above them in the table currently in 7th spot. Beat Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies 4-0 away from home in the Determining Round with a bye in the 1st Round now play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2 places above them in the league for a place in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup. Felicity Gibbons returns to the club after spells with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses. Vicky Ashton-Jones and Amy Taylor who both played a large part in helping Brighton & Hove Albion WFC to the FAWPL Southern Division title last season have also come in at the start of the season.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are 3 points above Gillingham in the FAWPL South East Division One table in 5th spot with 4 wins from 7 league games so far this season. Have a new manager with James Honeyman taking charge of the 1st team. Beat Luton Town Ladies away from home in the Determining Round to enter the FAWPL Cup proper had a bye in the 1st Round. Kara Howes has resigned for the club after being with WSL 2 side London Bees. Rebecca Vass, Bedford Ladies captain last season was also signed at the start of the season. 

  Gillingham FC Ladies have a new home this season, Corinthians FC. Just off the A2 through the villages of Bean and Longfield, ignoring the ‘Road Closed’ signs you find it just fine. In the countryside a picturesque setting you come to the Corinthian Sports Club a multi-purpose sports facility with a farmyard beyond, which you’ll end up in if you follow the Sat Nav, however there is a gate which I suspect is unlocked on most match days at that end. A large clubhouse with a bar upstairs refreshments hot and cold available. The ground itself is very nice a small seated stand behind one goal plus a small stand on one side. More seating in front of the building housing the changing rooms in on corner overlooking a large pitch, plenty of width on this on, not the flattest but in great condition nevertheless. A bright sunny day clouds dotted around but a warm afternoon, will enjoy them whilst they last.

 Gillingham FC Ladies starting XI – Katie Startup, Ellie Manning, Grace Seely, Charlie Thurston, Vicky Ashton-Jones, Rachel Ahern, Jade Keogh (C), Katie Hardaker, April Bowers, Harriett Chapman & Felicity Gibbons.
 subs – Courtney Shanly, Bethany Nugent & Kallie Balfour.

 Milton Keynes Don Ladies starting XI – Emma Kirby, Kara Howes, Samantha Gillings, Leanne Doyle, Vicky Holland, Charley Clark (C), Heather McDonnell, Charly Wright, Hannah Barrett, Leah Cudone & Rebecca Vass. 

 subs – Anna Loftus & Louise Naylor.

  Gillingham FC Ladies were without a few 1st team regulars but do have a large squad of players to draw from and with the games already building up the squad will be needed although absences and injuries see only 3 named on the bench, one of those goalkeeper Courtney Shanly with Katie Startup recently returned from Jordan having represented England Lionesses side in the U17s World Cup starting between the sticks. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies name a strong starting XI but a light on the bench with just the 2 substitutes to call upon. It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies kitted out in red shirts and shorts with a black and white band down the sides, along with red socks with a black and white band. Gillingham lined up opposite wearing blue shirts with a vertical white stripe down the right, blues shorts with a white bands around the left leg and white socks with blue at the top.

  From kick-off, Milton Keynes look to get the ball out to Leah Cudone on the right bringing the ball down looks to knock it past Gillingham’s Ellie Manning, the full back gets a foot in to win the ball, plays it in field into Katie Hardaker through the middle up to Felicity Gibbons leading the line holding the ball up has Harriett Chapman making a run on the left sends the ball out to her, Milton Keynes, Kara Howes running with her to win the ball tackles to put it out for a throw.

MK Dons Ladies, Leah Cudone tussles with Gillingham
FC Ladies, Ellie Manning for the ball

   Gillingham have started the match brightly have the ball inside the Milton Keynes half, Gibbons with the ball at her feet back to goal looks to link up with April Bowers on the right, her cross lifted up towards the penalty spot is headed clear of the area by Milton Keynes centre back Vicky Holland. Picking the ball up from half-way Gillingham captain, Jade Keogh carries it forwards rolls the pass into Bowers moving right, sends it on for Gibbons breaking into the box on the right side right of goal moving into the six yard box, looks to shoot the angle tight doesn’t get a very good connection with the ball runs tamely into the gloves of Milton Keynes goalkeeper, Emma Kirby.

 

Gillingham FC Ladies
April Bowers

Milton Keynes are sitting back inviting Gillingham on to them, defending the final ball played in towards the box. Bowers is over a free-kick won in front of the centre circle after Gibbons is fouled, plays the ball up in towards the D Milton Keynes, Leanne Doyle clears it with her head. Chapman pushes forwards with the ball on the right for the home side passes inside to Hardaker, aims her pass towards Gibbons wanting the ball inside the D, Holland marking her closely gets her foot in to push the ball away from the attacker.

  Milton Keynes are defending well, deep however the starting platform to get the ball into Rebecca Vass and Cudone up top is giving the Gillingham defence time to get bodies behind the ball. Gibbons is fouled in a central position a little closer to goal this time striking distance Bowers goes for goal sends her shot over the bar. A clash of heads between Howes and Chapman sees Milton Keynes down to 10 whilst the defender receives treatment for a small cut on her mouth. Attacking Hannah Barrett gets the ball over the top for Vass, Vicky Ashton-Jones tackles getting the ball into Chapman left driving forwards with the ball sends the ball in field is helped on to the right of the pitch the cross swept in near post Gibbons arriving leaps heads the ball down towards goal, Kirby saves getting down low to get hold of the ball. 

Rebecca Vass attempts to control the ball before Vicky Ashton-Jones can make the tackle

  Milton Keynes, Hannah Barrett nipping in to win the ball inside her own half lifts it forwards over the top Vass breaking clear of the Gillingham defence gives chase, Startup is quickly off her line to come out of her area to kick the ball clear. Rachel Ahern brings the ball on up the right attacking for Gillingham crosses early the ball into Chapman coming central closing in on the D, hits the shot on the turn blasting it against a Milton Keynes defender the block rolling towards Bowers 25 yards out hits the shot 1st time races wide of the target.

  Despite all of the chances in attack Gillingham have created so far 1st half the best one falls to Milton Keynes as they win a free-kick inside the Gillingham half inside the centre circle an opportunity to bring players forwards from the back, Barrett to deliver the ball lifts it high towards the players gathered left of goal inside the area, Doyle with a great run peels in behind the back jumping gets her head to the ball drives it goalwards, Startup near post makes an excellent save pushing the ball into the air falling back across the goal Vass following in leaps up trying to nod it home from close range her attempt cannoning off the crossbar bounces down into the six yard box, Gillingham scramble it clear.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Leanne Doyle

 Milton Keynes come forwards again the ball with Heather McDonnell in midfield played on to Charly Wright left her pass forwards into the middle picking out Vass central 25 yards out gets the shot away angling away to the left Startup shifting across gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Cudone finding herself out on the left side has the ball at her feet drives forwards towards the Gillingham box rides 2 challenges before pulling the trigger 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. 

  Charlie Thurston fouls Vass up near half-way the free-kick awarded another chance for the visitors to bring players forwards, Barrett plays the ball long up towards the D, Wright goes up to head the ball, doesn’t get a good connection, instead it is deflected wide right into the box, Holland gets hold of it plays the ball back in to Wright who wraps her foot over the ball meeting it on the volley her effort sails high over the crossbar. Late into the 1st half Milton Keynes make a change, Barrett can’t continue is replaced by Louise Naylor.

  Cudone still out on the left gets forwards, Milton Keynes captain, Charley Clark giving her the ball moving forwards tries a 1 2 with Vass outside the box shooting sends the ball wide past the post from 25 yards out. Up the other end Gillingham are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position on the left 22 yards from goal. Bowers over the ball goes for goal getting the ball over the wall, it falls straight into the gloves of Kirby. A late corner on the left for Milton Keynes following good work from Wright on the left the ball is angled in towards the near post headed on across the face of goal and out for a goal-kick far side. The last action of the 1st half.

April Bowers goes for goal from the free-kick late in the 1st half for Gillingham FC Ladies
Half-time Gillingham FC Ladies 0-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Gillingham have been the dominant side in the 1st half having had more of the ball and the attack however haven’t a goal to show for it. Milton Keynes have sat back in defence and wit no room to get in behind have dealt with most things well played up into the box, have struggled to get their strikers into the game defending so deep waiting for Gillingham to make an error then nipping in on the ball sending it forwards, have had the best chance of the half hitting the crossbar.
  Anna Loftus is on for Milton Keynes at the start of the 2nd half with McDonnell the player off. Gillingham make a change at half-time too with striker Kallie Balfour coming on for midfielder Hardaker. A change of formation for the home side going to 3 at the back Gibbons dropping deeper with Balfour now leading the attack. The ball is with Balfour straight away down the right moving into space taking it on to the byline cuts her cross back into the six yard box is cleared behind for a corner by Holland. Coming towards the ball Balfour receiving the ball inside the box plays it back to Gibbons the corner taker, from the angle she sweep a shot in towards the far post, the Milton Keynes defender covering the post clears the ball. The clearance lands outside the box, Seely latches onto it her strike low into the crowded area is blocked then cleared.

Charley Clark and Kallie Balfour contest the ball

  GOAL! Barely 5 minutes into the 2nd half and Balfour’s introduction makes the difference the ball given to her as she moves to the left side turns and heads for goal a powerful run with the ball at her feet entering the box from the left gets the shot away firing the ball across Kirby at the near post and into the back of the net beyond 1-0.

  Coming forwards from the back Ahern covers alot of grass before delivering a cross into the box from the right on the diagonal in towards Gibbons who jumps for the ball but can’t make contact as the cross flies over her. A sloppy ball at the back by Gillingham allows Wright to steal in take the ball on the left pushes on up the wing, Ashton-Jones gets back on her to tackle put the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly Wright throws it back to Gillings coming up to support the full-back sweeps a cross into the box players running in it’s Ashton-Jones who gets her head to the ball to clear for Gillingham.

Charly Wright on the ball of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Getting forwards down the right, Seely now playing wing back has Balfour making a run out to this side rolls the ball into her run the striker taking the ball on down the wing squares a pacey ball in along the face of goal, running along the ground Chapman has gotten into a central position the ball just evades her feet before being cleared far post.

 
  GOAL! Gillingham extend their lead as the 60th minute arrives the ball is brought into the Milton Keynes half by Keogh her forwards pass picking out Gibbons outside the area left of the D helps the ball on into the area with Balfour peeling off her marker into space right of goal, strikes the ball in centrally is straight at Kirby who gets down to gather the ball is unfortunate as the ball squirms through her gloves and under her body to roll into the net beyond 2-0.

2nd half substitute Kallie Balfour
scores twice for Gillingham

  Naylor plays the ball forwards in beyond the Gillingham defence for Vass to chase into the box, Ashton-Jones on her shoulder, Startup looks to come forwards, Ashton-Jones takes no chances slides a foot in to push the ball away from Vass send it out to the left where it is picked up by Wright whips the ball back into the area, Vass dropping away to the far post area stoops to head the ball is off target but deflects off a defender for a corner.

  Vass plays the ball forwards for Cudone this time to chase into the area hesitation between Startup ad Thurston allows Cudone a chance to get a shot away is off balance however and can only prod the ball straight at Startup who pushes it away with her feet, the ball cleared to the right beyond. Wright gets her foot to the ball as it is delivered long into the box from the right, falling back as she volleys the ball left of goal sends her shot over the bar. Playing in a deeper role 2nd half, Gibbons comes on with the ball, no one closing her down lets fly from 30 yards out her shot flies over the crossbar. 

  Gillingham make their 2nd change with Ahern coming off for Bethany Nugent a straight swap at the back. Keogh carrying the ball forwards passes to Balfour moving left in front of her, turning with the ball at her feet drives into the box shooting the ball lacks any pace doesn’t trouble Kirby at her near post the keeper gathering the ball. 

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Samantha Gillings

  Gillings bringing the ball on from the back up the left plays it on for Wright her pass forwards sees Cudone after the ball, shoulder to shoulder with Ashton-Jones the defender ends up on the ground as the ball runs behind a corner kick awarded. Is a great delivery from the left played in towards Clark inside the bx at the near post jumping gets a firm header on the ball turning it towards goal, Startup throws her gloves up the ball past her strikes the crossbar, deflected out to the left and cleared for a throw.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies captain, Charley Clark watches as her header heads towards goal

  A long crossfield ball plays Seely into space on the right taking the ball down into the corner puts the ball into the area a good delivery inswinging central under the bar 2 Gillingham plays closing in on her Kirby going up for it loses it under challenge dropping is cleared off the line by Howes at the far post. Kirby holds onto a powerful strike from Gibbons inside the box as Balfour plays her in receiving the ball on the left sending in on across the D into Gibbons whose shot is angled straight at the keeper.

Gillingham FC Ladies captain, Jade Keogh

  A good tackle from Ashton-Jones at the back for Gillingham to concede a throw on the left as Loftus goes forwards for Milton Keynes looking to get in behind as Wright sends the ball on up the wing. With Milton Keynes pushing players on late into the game Gillingham aren’t interested in running the ball into the corner counter attack Keogh on the ball moves to within 25 yards of goal fires a low shot into the box is cleared the ball coming back to the Gillingham captain hits a swerving shot back in towards goal, moving across her line Kirby gets hold of the ball. As Milton Keynes blast a long range strike wide of goal up the other ed the referee blows the final whistle and it’s Gillingham who advance to the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.
  

Full time Gillingham FC Ladies 2-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  A good contest, Gillingham eventually coming out on top adjusting things 2nd half after a goalless 1st 45 minutes. Dominated play but couldn’t break down a well drilled Milton Keynes defence sitting deep. The introduction of Balfour 2nd half altering things found space and with it 2 goals. Milton Keynes were 2nd best today despite hitting the crossbar from a set-piece in each half had less of the attack and few chances for their attackers to test the Gillingham goal. 
 My thanks to Jenny and Julian from Gillingham as well as Laura from Milton Keynes for their help with the teams today, always appreciated.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 25/09/16

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 25th September

Not too many games in the FAWPL this weekend, a couple of league games in both the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One. Attention elsewhere was in the cup competitions the Cup and Plate with the 1st Round ties taking place. Most clubs given a bye to the 2nd Round, just a handful of ties taking place in both.

FAWPL Southern Division

 It was a clash of two unbeaten sides in the FAWPL Southern Division on Sunday with 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women hosting 4th placed Coventry United Ladies. Kit Graham opened the scoring putting Charlton 1-0 up inside 10 minutes. Marie Gauntlett found the back of the net for Coventry 6 minutes later to equalise. On the half hour mark the visitors took the lead, Alison Hall putting the 2-1 in front. 2nd half Coventry went on to dominate the scoreline Gauntlett (pictured below) adding her 2nd goal 3 minutes into the 2nd half going on to score a hat-trick. Hall adding another goal in the last 5 minutes to see Coventry win 5-1 and move above Charlton into 2nd spot in the Southern Division table. 

gauntlett

Cardiff City Ladies move up to 5th in the FAWPL Southern Division after a 2-1 home win over C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. Chloe Chivers scoring the Welsh sides opening goal in the 7th minute. Had a 2-0 lead on the 29th minute, Kerry Bartlett the player on target. C&K Basildon responded captain Zoe Rushen scoring to get it back to 2-1 4 minutes later. 2-1 the half-time score C&K Basildon pressed for an equaliser 2nd half but couldn’t find it the win seeing Cardiff move above them in the table.

FAWPL Cup 1st Round

 FAWPL South East Division One side, Denham United Ladies were at home in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on South West Division One side, Brislington Ladies. Going into the half-time interval the scores were level at 2-2. Jenny Banfield and Rebecca French scoring Denham United Ladies goals. The tie looked like it was heading into extra-time no more goals coming 2nd half then in the last minute Aimee Durn struck in a shot to win it 3-2 send Denham United Ladies into the 2nd Round where they face a tough away trip to Coventry United Ladies.

Two FAWPL South East Division One sides met in the other FAWPL Cup 1st Round tie with Norwich City Ladies making the trip down into Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies. The home side opening the scoring on 15 minutes, Amy Taylor netting the goal 6 minutes later they raced into a 3-0 lead, Emma Tune and April Bowers scoring. Chelsea Garrett pulled a goal back for Norwich with 3 minutes of the 1st half left however Gillingham went into the dressing room at half-time with a 4-1 advantage Emily Symond with the goal in stoppage time. The second haf was a repeat of the 1st Gillingham winning that 4-1 too, Jade Keogh with a goal on 66 minutes, Felicity Gibbons 3 minutes later then Bethany Nugent scoring as the game moved into the last 10 minutes. Garrett scored her 2nd goal of the game for Norwich then Keogh added her 2nd of the game in the last minute to see Gillingham rack up an 8-2 win to progress to the 2nd Round where they have been drawn at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Below are some of the selected ties from the FAWPL Cup 2nd Round draw featuring Southern ad South East Division One sides.

FAWPL Cup 2nd Round (selected ties)

Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Coventry United Ladies v Denham United Ladies

Cardiff City Ladies v Larkhall Athletic Ladies

Portsmouth FC Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Charlton Athletic Women v C&K Basildon Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Crystal Palace Ladies

FAWPL Plate 1st Round

 West Ham United Ladies were drawn at home against fellow FAWPL Southern Division side in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate. Held a narrow advantage at half-time, Charlotte Gurr reunited with manager James Marrs after leaving Brighton to join Millwall Lionesses scoring in 1st half injury time. Swindon Town Ladies came back 2nd half getting themselves into a 2-1 lead with 10 minutes left to play, Georgia Walters scoring both of their goals. West Ham United Ladies came back scoring in injury time again, Chloe Burr with the goal to force the tie into extra-time. No more goals came in the extra 30 minutes and the tie headed into a penalty shootout. Indian International goalkeeper, Aditi Chauhan making her 1st appearance for the club this season was the heroine saving 3 penalties to see West Ham United Ladies win the shootout and advance to the 2nd Round where they will face FAWPL South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies away from home.  Below is a list of the 2nd Round ties in the FAWPL Plate featuring sides in the Southern and South East Division One.

FAWPL Plate 2nd Round (selected ties)

Actonians Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Cheltenham Town Ladies v West Ham United Ladies

Lowestoft Town Ladies v Queens Park Rangers Ladies

Lewes Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies

Exeter City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

FAWPL South East Division One

A 2-0 home win over Denham United Ladies on Thursday night had seen AFC Wimbledon Ladies continue their excellent start to the season since promotion to the FAWPL South East Division One. 4 wins from 4 to move above Cambridge United WFC at the top of the table. Were playing again just 3 days later a long road trip up to the Suffolk coast to play Lowestoft Town Ladies who had picked up their 1st 3 points of the season the previous Sunday at home to Enfield Town Ladies winning 3-0. 

 A fantastic start for the visitors, Sami Bock putting them a goal up inside 3 minutes. Lowestoft kept the lead down to a goal were awarded a penalty with 7 minutes of the 1st half left, Gemma Moore putting the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-1 at half-time. 2nd half the home side struck early captain Hannah Waters lobbing the keeper to make it 2-1 on 47 minutes, the lead didn’t last long Rebecca Sargent making it 2-2 on 50 minutes. Scored her 2nd of the match on 68 minutes to make it 3-1, substitute Sian Wylie scoring direct from a corner to make it 4-2. Lowestoft were awarded another penalty, Moore scoring again to pull it back to 4-3, the final score AFC Wimbledon move 3 points clear at the top with 5 wins from 5.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies returned to winning ways at home in the league after suffering 2 defeats in their opening 3 games. Were taking on Actonians Ladies on Sunday at Newport Pagnell FC. Won the game 4-1 to climb up into the top half of the table. Heather McDonnell scoring a brace with a goal a piece for Charly Clarke and Sophie Watson. Katrina Duncan scoring Actonians Ladies goal early in the 2nd half.

 

Match Report – Cambridge United Ladies v Lewes Ladies

Action from the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup this Sunday upon the Supporting Women’s Football Blog a trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on higher league opponents, Lewes Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division the visitors.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Lewes Ladies

 
  This Sunday sees the focus in the FAWPL switches from the league to the Cup with all of the 70 sides contesting the 6 Division’s drawn against each other in a Determining Round to decide which competition they will go on to the winners entering the FAWPL Cup competition which was won Tottenham Hotspur Ladies last season the losing sides going on to contest the FAWPL League Plate won by Coventry United Ladies. 

  Today’s match in the Determining Round sees me travel the short distance to Mildenhall Town FC to watch South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Division side, Lewes Ladies. 

  Has been a fair amount of player movement at Cambridge United WFC over the close season as the club looks to build on last seasons record points haul in the FAWPL South East Division One and achieve their aim of promotion to the FAWPL Southern Division. Dawn Mallett has joined the club having had a brief spell on loan last season, has plenty of WSL 2 experience and will provide added steel to the midfield a useful player with a dead ball too. Nicole Perschky and Hollie Jardine both join the club from Stevenage Ladies. Evie Gallop comes to the club from the Essex Centre of Excellence. Ashleigh Deacon joins from Watford Ladies and just this week the club announced the arrival of Rosie Kmita having left Tottenham Hotspur Ladies a coup for the club, however she was unavailable to play in today’s cup tie. A good test for Cambridge today in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on a side from the league above.

  Lewes Ladies have in recent seasons established themselves in the FAWPL Southern Division and this season have gotten their season off to a fantastic start winning their opening fixture 7-2 at home to West Ham United Ladies and holding one of the title favourites Cardiff City Ladies to a 1-1 to lay 2nd in the fledgling table. A good start one to build on as their attention switches to the Cup, a long journey up from the South for today’s Determining Round tie. Have a few new signings in their squad too, Rebecca Carter comes to Lewes from Crawley Wasps Ladies. Kim Stenning has playing experience with both Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses prior to joining Lewes Ladies whilst Fliss Love has signed on having been with Brighton’s Centre of Excellence. Have defender Rebecca Thompson back fit to after being out with a long term achilles injury. 

  Mildenhall Town FC is the venue for today’s match, Cambridge United WFC’s new home ground for the 2016/17 season. Easy to find close to the town centre, a fantastic playing surface sloping from one end to the other. Nice clubhouse and refreshments are available hot and cold. A fantastic playing surface the grass lush and green a slope on the pitch from one goal mouth to the other, a good size too. Several dark clouds around, threatening a shower or two, the sun eventually breaking through before kick-off.

  All clubs across the FAWPL holding a minutes applause before their matches in remembrance of 18-year-old Zoe Tynan who tragically passed away on Tuesday. A young talent gone too soon an U19 England International had recently joined Fylde Ladies. Thoughts are with her family and friends.

Applause in remembrance of Zoe Tynan before the match

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Hollie Jardine, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Paige Logie, Tahnee Perfect, Evie Gallop, Laura Mills, Ashleigh Deacon, Becky Taylor & Nicole Perschky.
  subs – Carrie Bennett, Dawn Mallett & Faith Hewitt.

  Lewes Ladies starting XI – Lauren Dolbear, Hayley West, Charlie Carter, Rebecca Thompson, Kelly Newton (C), Georgia Bridges, Katie McIntyre, Kellie Larkin, Rachel Palmer, Rebecca Carter & Gabby Baldock.

  subs – Kim Stenning, Danielle Lane & Fliss Love.

  A slight knock for Cambridge’s captain, Laura Bright saw her sit out the match with vice-captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt wearing the arm band, Paige Logie joining her at centre back for today’s match. A switch of ends at the coin toss sees Lewes take advantage of the slope 1st half with Cambridge kicking off the game wearing the new Cambridge United strip amber shirts with black vertical lines, black shorts and amber socks. Lewes are in their away colours, an all sky blue kit. Referee David Sorensen has a flat whistle as he blows to start the game a vigorous shake later and it’s back in business.

  A free kick straight away in the middle for Cambridge as Tahnee Perfect is bundled over a chance to pile players forwards up to the edge of the Lewes penalty box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt over the set-piece flighted up to the top of the area it’s Lewes Charlie Carter who heads the ball clear. Lewes break down the left with Gabby Baldock on the ball taking it into the Cambridge half turns in field, is tackled by Cambridge’s Evie Gallop the ball going out for a throw in. Lewes make headway down the left before the attempted cross goes out of play for a goal kick.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Evie Gallop contesting the ball with
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre

  Kellie Larkin is busy in the middle for Lewes at the start of the match imposing herself on the ball and driving forwards with it at her feet shifts play out to the right with Hayley West coming forwards from right back sends the ball on down the line for Rebecca Carter who whips a cross into box, Cambridge’s Hollie Jardine lunges at the ball turning it behind for the corner kick

 GOAL! Less than 5 minutes on the clock and a chance for Lewes who have some tall players in their ranks to bring them forwards to attack the corner kick Kate McIntyre takes the corner is a fantastic delivery whipped into the box with pace, finds Georgia Bridges unmarked facing the near post gets her head over the ball knocking it in past goalkeeper Verity Crook and over the player at the post before she can react. 0-1.

  A good start from the visitors are causing Cambridge a few problems, Larkins with support from captain Kelly Newton in midfield in particular with Carter up front moving across the pitch to find pockets of space to receive the ball. It’s Carter in possession around the top right corner of the Cambridge box receiving from a throw-in good footwork as she tries to wriggle her way into the area, Burt comes across to make the tackle the ball isn’t cleared far comes back in Cambridge concede the corner. From the right goes long, however the referee spots a push on Crook the free-kick is awarded to Cambridge.

Kellie Larkin on the ball for Lewes Ladies

  More forceful running from Rebecca Carter down the right wing, drives on before squaring the ball into the Cambridge area, players from both sides have been drawn across the pitch, West has gotten forwards is looking to gt on the end of the cross hit a shot goalwards a yard inside the area, Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins closes her down the opportunity is gone. Cambridge aren’t getting much success up front in the opening 15 minutes Laura Mills right and Deacon left trying to make themselves available aren’t getting much change out of Thompson and West in the full-back positions. 

  Counter attack for Lewes, Baldock sending Rebecca Carter away down the left flank, races after the ball, wants to travel inside towards goal, Burt getting back on her forces her wide gets into the box the angle is against Carter nevertheless the gets a shot away with the outside of her boot, Crook has gotten across to cover her near post the shot lacking the power to beat her. 

Lewes ladies, Gabby Baldoock

  Cambridge having been on the back foot are starting to get some joy on the flanks play drawn inside Jenkins is able to run onto the ball in space on the right side her cross into the box is over Nicole Perschky, is cleared by the defender behind for a throw in the right, put back into the Lewes area West clears out to the middle, Mills latches onto it from 25 yards plus out sends the ball arrowing back in towards goal skims the top of the crossbar as it goes out for a goal-kick.

  A fantastic save from Lewes goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear to keep the 1 nil advantage in tack. Lewes are on the attack the ball is won back as Paige Logie tackles Carter at the back sends the ball long over the top clearing the Lewes defence caught static for a moment not Perschky however as she breaks clear getting her foot on the ball a one on one situation with the keeper developing, carrying the ball inside looks to shoot from outside the box curl the shot around the keeper with her left foot, Dolbear flings herself to her right getting a good glove on the ball turning it wide for the corner kick. Lewes defend the corner at the near post.the ball landing straight at the feet of Becky Taylor 25 yards out left of the box hits the shot back in sending the ball wide across the goal face. 

  This is a busy game alot happening both sides enjoying the pitch the ball travelling well upon it. Baldock has possession wide left for Lewes picks out a great pass to find Larkin central going forwards looks the lift the ball into the area with Bridges trying to steal in behind the Cambridge defence, the lob almost comes off, Logie just stretches her neck muscles to turn the ball away. 

 GOAL! Just as Cambridge look like they might find a way to level things up, Lewes get down the other end and double their advantage getting the ball down the left deep into the Cambridge half win a throw the ball is played into Larkin inside the box her shot is blocked the deflection sends the ball across the six yard box with Rebecca Carter well placed to hit the ball towards goal and score 0-2. 


 Half an hour played and their has been little respite from both sides. Larkin pushes on with the ball taking it to the right as she travels deep into the Cambridge half has Rebecca Carter with her charging on down the wing, has kept Jardine busy on that side the Cambridge left back stops the cross putting the ball out for a corner. Carter breaks from the middle of the area towards the near post to receive the corner lifts her boot connecting with the ball places it wide.

  Cambridge break the ball fizzed into Perschky back to goal inside the Lewes half, sends the ball out to the right with Mills racing into space getting it onto her feet hits the cross early along the face of the box with players from both sides racing up the pitch, it’s Taylor 20 yards out who latches onto the ball hitting it on the volley, plenty of power in the little chance to control it blasts the effort wide. 

 GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of an action packed 1st half, Cambridge regain possession of the ball at the back as Lewes attack, launch a rapid counter move as Taylor brings the ball on picking out Perschky with a brilliant pass the striker turns and sprints towards the Lewes area her run identical to her earlier move only this time travelling into a central position reverses the shot playing it back across the diving Dolbear to her left and scores 1-2.


   Cambridge find time for on more attack in the 1st half Taylor bringing the ball on down the right, Perschky makes a move out to the wing wanting the ball, gets it then tries to pick out Mills making a run through the middle to get up into the area, the cross swerves in towards Dolbear who comfortably gathers


Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Lewes Ladies

  A busy 1st half full of entertainment, Lewes getting off to a fantastic start taking an early lead and dominating for a spell took Cambridge a little while to get into the game and just when they did they fell 2 nil down. Kept going and pulled a goal back late in the half to keep this Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup very much alive.
  Lewes get the 2nd half underway, any chance of rain has gone the sun bathing down now. A double change for the visitors at the start Baldock and Bridges are off with Kim Stenning and Fliss Love coming on. Haven’t even picked up my notepad and Lewes have the ball in the back of the net, Carter free on the right whips a cross into the box, Newton I think is the player who bundles it home, however it doesn’t stand as the linesman’s flag is raised.
  Deacon fouls Love wide on the right, McIntyre takes the free-kick playing the ball up the line for West to go after plays an early ball across the top of the box looking for Stenning, instead it’s Logie that gets to it first to head clear. Cambridge bring the ball over the half-way line the pass is to Perschky wide left 25 yards out plays the ball crossfield into Perfect who helps it on to Mills, has Jenkins go beyond her on the overlap plays her puts the ball into the box with Perfect trying to get in there, Charlie Carter charges down the ball and it’s cleared.
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre gets the ball just ahead of Cambridge’s Ashleigh Deacon
 Cambridge are giving a few free-kicks away, gives the chance for McIntyre to play the ball up into the area, is on the ball wide right is virtually a corner kick, is swept into the area at a good height, Taylor back defending for Cambridge heads clear. Love on the ball on the right switches play well putting the ball inside to Larkin who in turn helps it further on for Palmer who strikes from outside the box, slices the ball away from goal. A change for Cambridge as the game approaches the 60 minute mark with Dawn Mallett returning from an injury lay-off coming on to replace Perfect. 
 Cambridge are getting much more possession of the ball 2nd half attacking down the slope, Perschky with the crossfield ball left to right for Mills rolls it back into the middle for Mallett, returns the pass Mills down the wing plays the ball into the box, Charlie Carter near post heads the ball away. Cambridge make a 2nd change Gallop coming off for Faith Hewitt. Cambridge win a free-kick wide right inside the Lewes half Mallett to put the ball in is cleared from the top of the area by Lewes, Jenkins picks it up for Cambridge on the right sends it back in Thompson heads it out this time the counter is on Love travelling with the ball looks to play it on for Carter, the offside flag stops her in her tracks.

Emma Jenkins
  Cambridge are applying much of the pressure 2nd half however Lewes are defending well, deep not allowing any way in behind. Jardine able to get forwards a little more 2nd half sends a long ball up into the area, looking for Perschky, West does well against her heads it back out of the area is gathered by Mallett 35 yards out sends the shot back in held by Dolbear. Cambridge continue to pressurise Perschky gathering the ball on the run taking it into the area from the left hits it towards goal is straight at Dolbear. 
 For a moment there everyone in the crowd thinks Cambridge have been awarded a penalty, as Taylor dribbling the ball towards the Lewes area is fouled by Charlie Carter it’s just outside however inside the D right side. Mallett on the free-kick hit’s it hard and low, the Lewes wall does its job blocking the shot and getting out to clear. Love is energetic finding space with some lively footwork to get clear of her markers for Lewes pushing inside from the right has Newton making a forwards run for her to get into the Cambridge box, Burt stretching just manages to get to it 1st.
  With 10 minutes of normal time left Lewes make their final change bring on Danielle Lane for Larkin. The visitors have a corner on the right the delivery into Rebecca Carter a good header from 10 yards out angling for the top corner, Crook shifting to her left jumps and plants her gloves firmly around the ball.Final change for Cambridge a straight swap at left back with Carrie Bennett coming on for Jardine 7 minutes left still 2-1 to Lewes.
 

Cambridge captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Cambridge continue to push hard for an equalising have to risk getting hit on the counter 
but both sides are tiring. Perschky has been a threat all game for Cambridge manages to get past Charlie Carter at the back for once, Love tracking back lunges in to win the ball put it out for a throw. Left side the ball is played into Mallett central a great turn gives her a half yard of space 25 yards out to shout puts the ball straight into Dolbear’s midriff.

  Closing in on the 90 minute mark Cambridge push on the game is stretched, Stenning gets onto the end of a Palmer cross in from the left, looping up Crook holds onto the ball. At the other end Taylor is sent clear through the middle it’s a case of can she be closed down before she gets the ball away into the D, treads on the ball the chance is gone. Into injury time 5 minutes to be added Lewes attack the ball from Lane into Stenning on to Rebecca Carter right she crosses the ball in, Burt gets enough on the ball her deflection taking all the power off the ball runs safely through to Crook. 
 GOAL! A late, late corner for Cambridge players are sent forwards as Mills sends a fantastic ball into the six yard box is headed out of the area by Lewes Cambridge getting hold of it on the left the ball lifted back in is knocked on Hewitt volleys the ball goalwards it rattle the crossbar drops back down into the area Taylor is sharp nipping in to take it then sends the shot into the back of the net to cue wild celebrations as Cambridge make it 2-2. 
 
Becky Taylor scores the equalising goal at the death for
Cambridge United WFC to force the game into extra-time
Full-time Cambridge United WFC 2-2 Lewes Ladies

  That’s virtually it time for Lewes to get the ball up the other end but not enough time to retake the lead the game ends with the scores level at 2-2 and the game will see another 30 minutes of added time played. Cambridge were the stronger side 2nd half pushing forwards creating chance finding hard to break down a resolute Lewes defence time was running out scoring with their last attack in added time. All substitutes played by both sides which side would find the energy for another goal in extra-time.

Extra-time

Lewes Ladies and Cambridge United WFC rest and prepare for an additional 30 minutes
  Cambridge to kick off the 1st 15 minute period of extra-time attacking back up the slope. Have an early chance as the ball is played out to the right Love onto Carter her cross in towards the near post is met by Stenning sends the ball high over the bar. Hewitt for Cambridge launches a shot goalwards from 30 yards out is off target. Cambridge get the ball in from the right win a corner kick Taylor comes towards the ball inside the box drills a head down towards goal is blocked the deflection taking it behind for another corner. 
  Charlie Carter goes into the book as she brings down Hewitt in the centre circle the Cambridge attack almost away after she wins a 50/50 challenge. Mallett plays the ball into the box West and Hewitt go up for it the ball is knocked down across goal Mills meets it on the volley drives over the crossbar. 
 Mallett is fouled in a similar position to the earlier free-kick a little higher up the pitch Players go up into the box, Lewes’ Dolbear claims it they launch a counter attack the ball swept out to Rebecca Carter on the right over half way has support inside from McIntyre plays the ball inside takes on the strike from distance, gets plenty of pace on the ball, Crook leaps across to cover the top corner on her left the shot is just wide. 
  The scores remain 2-2 as the 1st half of extra-time comes to an end, Cambridge to attack down the slope in the 2nd period, Lewes kick-off
 GOAL! There is a goal right at the start of the 2nd period of extra-time the Lewes are on the attack the ball played into McIntyre in the centre brings it on into the Cambridge half passes out to Palmer free on the left, hits the cross early on the diagonal looping the ball up with Stenning going far post. it’s an own goal as Logie attempting to get her head on the ball can only turn it past the stranded Crook and into the back of the net. 2-3.

 12 minutes left to play can Lewes hold on to take the victory. Cambridge come forwards down the right Jenkins plays a long ball up towards the top corner of the area Dolbear coming for the ball claims well with Taylor breathing down her neck. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Dawn Mallett
 GOAL! The lead is sort lived as Cambridge winning the ball back inside their own half have Mallett on the ball plays a fantastic long pass over the top towards Perschky drifting left, receiving the ball turns inside heads towards the box seeing the danger Dolbear comes racing out to meet her goes down as she blocks the ball with her feet, the keeper grounded, the trapped ball hasn’t gone anywhere, Perschky has stayed on her feet can knock it past the keeper on the edge of the area and sends it home to equalise, races over to the bench to celebrate. 3-3

 Neither side settling for the looming penalty shootout Lewes attack Love with the ball up into Stenning right side into the box her shot straight into Crook across to cover her near post. The ball is soon up the other end the pass long into the box looking for Perschky, Thompson gets back on her to win the ball. Pushing forwards little time left Deacon is played in by Perschky down the left Taylor makes a run through the middle into the box left goes to put the ball across the six yard for Mills, Palmer tracking back defends getting there 1st the ball is cleared but only as far as Mallett who strikes from distance the shot wide.

 Full-time extra-time and the game will go to penalties.

Penalties
 
  Cambridge to get the penalty shootout underway the players opting to walk down the slope and take the penalties that end. Taylor up 1st for the home side hits the ball hard to the Dolbear’s right she guesses right but her dive is in vain 1-0.
 
  Stenning is up 1st to take the penalty for Lewes keeps it low and accurate into the bottom corner to Crook’s left 1-1.
 
  2nd penalty taker for Cambridge is Perschky, hits a high penalty into the back of the net evading Dolbear who again guesses the right way 2-1.
 
  Palmer takes Lewes’ 2nd penalty a good penalty kept down to the keepers left 2-2.
 
 Cambridge captain, Burt to take the 3rd penalty lifts her effort up over the keeper and into the top of the net3-2
 
  Lane to take Lewes 3rd penalty, goes to place the ball low into the bottom corner, Crook guesses right throwing herself to her right gets her gloves on the ball to push it away, save the score remains 3-2.
 
  Cambridge’s 4th penalty taker is Jenkins goes to put the ball down the middle, Dolbear makes a comfortable save stays 3-2.
 
  Charlie Carter up next for Lewes again looks to hit the ball low to the keepers right, Crook throws herself at it and saves another still 3-2.
 
  One penalty of the regular 5 left for Cambridge score it and they win the Cup tie. It’s Mallett to take hits the ball low and accurate into the bottom left corner to win it for Cambridge 4-2.
 
Cambridge celebrate after winning on penalties
   That’s it Cambridge win the penalty shootout 4-2 to end a cracking game of football the players race into the area in celebration piling on top of Mallett. It’s a tough way to end a match but has to be settled one way. So Cambridge advance to the League Cup proper whilst Lewes will contest the League Plate not too many sides will fancy drawing them. 35 sides contesting each competition a preliminary round will take place to bring it down to 32 for the 1st round proper.
  A great advert for women’s football the game ebbed and flowed, drama Cambridge coming back from 2-0 to score an equaliser deep in injury time to force extra-time, both sides going on to score in extra-time then the drama of penalties. I’m exhausted writing this match report so can only imagine how the players feel.
  My thanks to Lewes Ladies, Jane Roberts for her help with the team details today. Best of luck to both sides for their respective cup competitions.