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Match Report – March Town United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies

Sunday 15th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

 First taste of county league action this season and we begin in Cambridgeshire a game from the Women’s Premiership, March Town United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies.

 The 3rd weekend in a row a side from Peterborough has featured in a match report. ICA Sports Ladies the visitors this time around. An large influx of new sides entering the county leagues in Cambridgeshire this season sees the Premiership swell from 8 to 13 sides with a new single division Championship consisting of 15 sides. 

  March Town United Ladies one of the sides sitting out the opening weekend, begin their campaign this Sunday, now an established side in the Premiership finishing comfortably in what proved to be a competitive tussle in mid-table. Now part of a 13 strong Premiership alot more football to be played 6 new sides those promoted starting well March will be looking to make an impact.

  A runners-up finish in the Premiership for ICA Sports Ladies last season, competing within the Peterborough area a hotbed for women’s football, the club both male and female has a very strong youth section always looking to bring players through. Like March well established in the league will be aiming to be as competitive as last season push for the top end of the table. Started their season with a win, although only just letting a 6-2 lead at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds slips to clinch it 6-5 at the final whistle. 

 Didn’t get to see either side in action last season, and it has been a while since I’ve visited March Town United Ladies, GER Sportsground. Boasts the 2nd oldest wooden football stand in existence set back from the pitch, the venue having hosted greyhound racing in the past. A new clubhouse leading into the ground on one corner, the bar and kitchen open for hot drinks. An historic ground, a good sized pitch. A hot and humid day, close with some cloud cover, the sun hot when it breaks through.

March Town United Ladies starting XI – Toni Sharpe, Kayleigh Churchyard, Megan Webb, Louise Billingham, Claire Newton, Megan Tombs, Alexis Waters, Adele Munday (C), Emma Searle, Abigail Grist & Eleanor McLeish. Subs- Naomi McGarvie.

ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Claire Knibbs, Cara Clarke, Jessica Farchica, Becky Shields (C), Sophie Antonucci, Zoe Leddy, Hannah Murphy, Sarah Rouse, Donna Nicholls, Piper Hebditch & Carmen Herridge. Subs – Tessa Morrison.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides short of numbers naming just 1 substitute each, players unavailable and missing through injury. ICA Sports without their goalkeeper, Claire Knibbs donning the gloves. ICA Sports opting to switch ends at the coin toss with the high sun a factor facing down on one goal. March to get the game underway wearing yellow shirts, black shorts and socks. ICA Sports lined up opposite wearing blue shirts and shorts with blue and white hooped socks. The visitors press from the off forcing a throw left the ball put up the line Donna Nicholls fresh from scoring an opening day hat-trick bursting forwards putting the March defence under pressure gets inside to let loose a shot from 30 yards out her attempt well wide.

   March bring the ball out fro the back Megan Tombs left and Abigail Grist right making runs wide looking for the crossfield pass, the ball played left Tombs bringing it down is challenged by Cara Clarke possession regained for ICA Sports. March win the ball back central forwards with Eleanor McLeish coming inside from the left taking aim from outside the area her shoot low gathered by Knibbs. March with another crossfield pass find Grist breaking in behind right side taking the ball to the byline her cross cut out by Sophie Antonucci for the first corner of the game.

Abigail Grist attacking for March Town United Ladies

  GOAL! An early goal as ICA Sports break from March’s corner kick the ball cleared up-field Nicholls racing away clear on the left drives in field towards the area, the March defence racing to get back plays in central to Carman Herridge, wants to return it to Nicholls but is closed down instead has a 2nd option racing up to support Hannah Murphy receiving the lay off 25 yards out connecting well to fire in a shot past goalkeeper Toni Sharpe before she can set herself. 0-1.

Hannah Murphy (right) opening the scoring for ICA Sports Ladies

  ICA Sports leading within the opening 5 minutes are looking sharp early on breaking quickly Sarah Rouse breaking up a March attack, Nicholls frustrated as she goes a fraction to early the flag raised against her as Murphy central looks to put it on over the top for her. March captain Adele Munday getting hold of the ball looks to carry it through the middle her determined run ended by Rouse. 

 GOAL! The visitors quickly find themselves race into a 2 goal lead. Nicholls a real threat attacking on the left gets away in behind this time pace on the ball travelling into the box left side into the six yard box time to way up her options players racing in central opens up her body to shoot a close range, the ball finding it’s way through the goalkeepers legs as she shapes to block. 0-2.

Donna Nicholls doubles the lead for ICA Sports Ladies

  A great start for ICA Sports 2 goals to the good inside 10 minutes looking lively the ball won high up the pitch play turned around quickly forcing their opponents into rushing their passes. Murphy brought down central 30 yards out players forwards as Nicholls stands over the set piece into the area, headed clear, March unable to break ICA Sports straight back at them, the pass into Nicholls her ball forwards long. March struggling to get any sustained possession early on. A change for ICA Sports Piper Hebditch has taken a slight knock on the right, Tessa Morrison coming on. 

Carmen Herridge holding the ball up

  Murphy attacking for ICA Sports right channel on for Herridge takes the ball on into the area Louise Billingham going with her for March the centre back winning the challenge, the ball gathered by Morrison wide right her cross long across the box Nicholls on it far side shapes to shoot across the keeper, Sharpe with an excellent save throwing out a glove to push the ball away. A slight delay then as for the 2nd week running somebody as left a present on the pitch the duty of clearing it up once again falling to the manager. An appropriate time for a drinks break is hot out there (enjoy it while it lasts).

   ICA Sports on the front foot again from the restart Murphy seeing Nicholls making her move left sides aiming to put the ball over the top, too close to the keeper this time. Munday looks to get things going for March through the middle a strong run forwards Clarke stays with her as they head for the box, Munday getting a shot away 25 yards out runs wide of the goal. ICA Sports caught offside March defender Claire Newton on the free-kick plays a fantastic ball into her opponents half in front of the area Munday bringing it down into the feet of fellow midfielder Emma Searle she lifts a shot over the bar from 25 yards out. 

  March finding their feet growing into the game but ICA Sports remain a threat ready to break on the counter should they commit too many forwards. The ball cleared by the March defence after a spell of head tennis in the final third, Murphy free 35 yards out meeting it on the volley aiming to lob the keeper her strike dropping short safely caught by Sharpe. March make a change Naomi McGarvie coming on for Billingham, the substitution seeing Alexis Waters drop into the back line. 

March Town United Ladies captain, Adele Munday

  Munday back helping her defence as Nicholls looks to put the ball over the top for Herridge running central. Waters winning the race to the ball getting a vital touch inside the area to clear for a corner as Murphy looks to get on through the middle. The ball from the corner put in near side met by an ICA Sports head turned goalwards dropping straight at Sharpe on her line cleanly gathered. 

  Megan Webb brought down getting forwards on the right for March the free-kick 30 yards out Searle over in floated into the area near post, Jessica Farchica tracking the runner to clear behind for a corner. The initial ball cleared back to the corner taker a 2nd cross fired in central into McGarvie back to goal attempts to control and turn to shoot closed down before she can. March enjoying a period of possession within the ICA Sports final 3rd Munday linking up with Searle, another free-kick given on the right deeper this time Newton forwards to take a fine delivery to the back post a March head meeting it falls wide of the post six yards out. Grist winning a corner right ICA Sports defend Herridge on it looking to break central is obstructed by Waters referee Ian Reynolds awarding the free-kick

 GOAL! From the resulting free-kick ICA Sports go on to extend their lead Nicholls over it players forwards into the ball a good floated ball in central captain Becky Shields rising highest to meet it her header taking the ball out to the left where Murphy has strayed unmarked to collect and blast a shot in across the keeper 0-3.

   ICA Sports remain sharp as the first half draws to a close another free-kick given on half-way the ball up towards the top of the area defended by Webb for March. ICA Sports keeping possession right Morrison playing it into the area the March defence stepping out well to leave Herridge offside. Searle with a powerful run on the ball through the middle for March Farchina on her shoulder 20 yards out does enough as the midfielder shoots does get the touch she wanted the ball tame as it is gathered by Knibbs. 

  Moments left in the first period Nicholls alert running in central catches Newton in possession outside the area takes the ball on Sharpe running out to meet her, Nicholls touch taking the ball wide of the advancing keeper momentum taking her wide of goal as she enters the six yard box, Newton haring back to get on the goal line Nicholls again weighing up the options as Sharpe back to closes the angle, Nicholls has Herridge steaming in lays the ball into her path 3 yards out central an opening goal begging manages to send the ball running wide across the face out beyond the far post. 

Half-time March Town United Ladies 0-3 ICA Sports Ladies

  The end to an otherwise dominant first half from ICA Sports, an early lead quickly doubled seeing them on the front foot. Preventing March getting any momentum going closing the ball down well, Hebditch and Nicholls looking to break wide in support of Herridge through the middle, Murphy with some excellent runs to with Rouse and Luddy protecting in midfield. March struggling to get up to the pace of the game, Munday and Searle trying to get things going through the middle, Knibbs though largely untested so far. Alot for March to do if they want to get anything from the game.

Adele Munday and Sophie Antonucci going to win the ball

  Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd half, Hebditch back on, playing right. Billingham back on to at left back in place of Webb. ICA Sports to get the 2nd half underway. Attacking left Munday across to win the ball back the ball played long to Tombs pushing on down the left she plays another crossfield pass long for Grist attacking right down to the corner finds her way inside Antonucci to play the ball with the outside of her boot across the six yard box, McGarvie meeting it in the middle under challenge fires the ball wide across goal. 

March Town United Ladies, Claire Newton

 A positive start to the 2nd half from March sees a sot fired over from distance. Newton defending at the back chasing back with Nicholls as she looks to get onto the ball. Nicholls remains a threat on the left holding the ball up, Newton and Billingham doubling up on her, she ducks inside to lift a cross into the box the flag up against Hebditch on the right. Munday with a strong challenge getting the ball on for March to Grist right side looking to take the ball on checks back to square across the top of the area with McGarvie making a run so too Rouse in front of her intercepting.

Newton and Sarah Rouse collide

   March looking better at the start of the 2nd half, ICA Sports though with a 3 goal lead can sit back a little. Murphy still prepared to get forwards attacking right shooting from 25 yards out the ball wide at the near post. Rouse putting the ball on from a throw inside her half up to Murphy she see Nicholls ready to go right the flag up against her a close call but just too soon. 

GOAL! March pull a goal back from an free-kick given against ICA Sports inside their own half, Newton on it plays another good delivery in towards the top of the area the ball knocked down central collected by Searle controls moves across the D to the right shift before unleashing a shot put across the keeper strikes the inside of the far post and nestles inside the back of the net 1-3.

Emma Searle pulls it back to 3-1 for March Town United Ladies

   The game more competitive between the pair now March matching ICA Sports earlier intensity. A push in the back spotted against Herridge ICA Sports with a free-kick wide right, Nicholls sends it deep Murphy with a late run, getting onto the end of it her touch pushing it out from her feet puts her shot wide across the face of goal. ICA Sports starting to pick up the pace slow at the start of the first half push players on Luddy getting forwards into a shooting position outside the box 20 yards out fires the ball straight into the keeper. 

  Billingham kept busy by Nicholls on the wing the ICA Sports attacker not finding it so easy to get away 2nd half, far from out of it however. A drop ball as Murphy plays the ball against the back of the referees head trying to launch it forwards. Drop ball not contested this season Shields sends it forwards for Murphy having run up field left side into the box Tombs defends conceding the corner. 

  Combination play on the right between Nicholls and Hebditch on the right before a shot comes fizzing in across the six yard box Sharpe down smartly to push the ball away out to the left, ICA Sports keeping possession the ball flung in headed clear drops to Farchica 25 yards out her attempt back in falling wide of the mark. Lively now the sun hidden by clouds cooling things down. The March defence drawn to the ball a miscued clearance playing it on for Herridge allows the striker to set Nichols away in behind Billingham, Newton does well to get across a tackle to clear for a corner. The delivery long cleared at the far post.

 GOAL! ICA Sports restore their 3 goal lead a throw inside their own half put forwards well by Rouse up to Herridge in attack opens her body to spread play wide left with the ever lively Nicholls bursting forwards clear to race on into the area closing in on goal send her strike in low Sharpe down can’t get there in time as it evades her to cross the line 1-4.

Donna Nicholls scores to restore ICA Sports 3 goal lead

  A drinks break called changes made with Webb back on in place of Churchyard for March and Morrison back on for ICA Sports replacing Hebditch. Grist’s clearance over the clubhouse the ball lost on the road beyond. Grist taking the new ball forwards down the right covering plenty of grass into the corner doing well to win a corner.

ICA Sports Ladies, Sarah Rouse

GOAL! From the corner March score again comes in near side towards the top of the area defended but sliced on across the top of the D, Searle meeting it left 20 out hits it hard and straight through bodies finds its way in 2-4. 15 minutes left to play.

  Nicholls brought down attacking left right on the edge of the area. Taking the free-kick the ball lifted in across goal safe in the hands of Sharpe, March look to counter quickly the ball carried over half way by Munday forwards for McLeish, Shields getting across her as the pair enter the area to safely marshal it back to her keeper. Newton stepping forwards out of the defence well intercepts as Nicholls aims to thread a ball through the middle for Herridge. Herridge herself attacking top of the area receiving the pass from Murphy finds herself crowded off the ball by Waters and Webb.

  ICA Sports upping their intensity once again as they push on late on the game winning a corner on the right put into the box headed towards goal cleared off the line by Newton I think. Herridge after a long ball sent forwards on the right wing collects on the byline the game stretched players out of position Nicholls coming in field clear at the top of the area, Billingham recovers in the nick of time to race across to lung in and intercept the ball. Grist coming off for March with Churchyard back on.  

GOAL! ICA Sports score a 5th goal late in the game counter with the ball up to Nicholls left beating the offside trap plays the diagonal ball into the box for Herridge providing the run right of the D, she shoots early putting the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner.

 March look for an immediate reply Searle fouled brought down central as she and Munday combine well again in attack. The set-piece 25 yards out McLeish to take, doesn’t get the height on the shot to trouble Knibbs. Into the final 5 minutes. Murphy stealing in behind the March defence on the right shoots over the bar. ICA attack Antonucci getting forwards with Rouse played inside to Luddy in to attack, Waters challenging, Luddy gets a 2nd bite shooting across goal, Sharpe down pushing the ball wide collected right Morrison sends a strike back in cannons off the bar. ICA Sports ending the game on the front foot as the final whistle blows.

Full time March Town United Ladies 2-5 ICA Sports Ladies

  Two wins from two for ICA Sports Ladies sees them topping the table albeit very early in the season. Played well on the front foot early 2-0 up inside the opening 10 minutes adding a 3rd goal before half-time. Pressing well, looking to turn play around quickly with willing runners in attack, Rouse and Luddy confident in front of defence. March struggling in the first half in contrast on the back foot going in 3 down at half-time. Responded well 2nd period the game opening up competitive all over the pitch 2 goals pulled back. ICA Sports always lively on the counter biding their time scoring 2 more goals as play became stretched.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A few contenders but in the end in came down to two. Hannah Murphy linking up the midfield and attack well passing wide with options available and making some good runs herself to get into scoring positions scoring 2 goals. Ahead of her though is Donna Nicholls, lively right from the first minute looking to get in behind and drive at goal, scoring 2 goals herself clinical and a danger when taking a free-kick.

  An enjoyable first county league game to start the season, glad to have caught up with both sides, have no doubt the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership will be highly competitive this season. My thanks to both teams for the team details today always appreciated.

Cup Final Report – Isleham United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final

Wednesday 16th May

One more women’s final left to be played in Cambridgeshire a trip to Newmarket Town FC’s, Bloorie.com Stadium this evening for the Junior Invitation Cup Final between Isleham United Ladies and ICA Sports Ladies.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies aiming for a Cup Double after winning the League Cup two weeks ago. Up against fellow Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies, ICA Sports Ladies were the underdogs, putting in a strong performance as their opponents never got into their stride. This time around taking on lower league opposition in the Junior Invitation Cup, ICA Sports Ladies are themselves the favourites but will be only to aware that doesn’t count for anything if you don’t perform in the game. A Cup Double though the perfect way to end their season.

A Cup Final appearance and a shot at winning silverware too for Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South side Isleham United Ladies. Know themselves they face a tough test in this evenings final but have earned the right to be there. League form hasn’t been good this season have saved the best for their cup run to this evenings final. Close to Newmarket the club has brought plenty of support along to the final.

Road to the Final

  Peterborough based ICA Sports Ladies receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Junior Invitation Cup. Isleham United Ladies were drawn at home to fellow Championship South side, Burwell Tigers. Amy Ellis and Lily Turner both scoring twice with Annabelle Marsh and Livi Caffarelli getting a goal a piece in a 6-1 win. 

  Onto the quarter finals Isleham United Ladies were once again at home taking on another Championship South opponent Cambridge Rangers. Louisa Harwood, Nicole Bailey an a brace for Vicky Beeton putting Isleham through to the last 4 of the competition. ICA Sports at home in the quarter finals up against Histon Ladies Reserves who they had knocked out of the League Cup via a penalty shootout. That wasn’t needed this time around a brace for Carmen Herridge putting them through the last 4.

   The semi-finals saw to close games played. Isleham United Ladies again on home soil up against Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves also from the Championship South, A brace for Lily Turner along with a goal for Rachael Turner seeing Isleham edge the result 3-2 to reach the final. ICA Sports Ladies were drawn away to fellow Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. Just the one goal scored in the match ICA Sports clinching a place in a 2nd final, Jessica Farchica with the all important goal. 

The game originally scheduled for last month postponed due to heavy rain. The weather better this time but the heat has vanished a chilly breeze making it feel very cold, cloud cover above. The venue for this evenings final Newmarket Town FC. Playing on their new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. The bar and kitchen open a goo sized crowd gathered to watch the game.

 Isleham United Ladies starting XI – Claire Knibbs, Holly Partner, Sophie Antonucci, Becky Shields (C), Sarah Rouse, Zoe Luddy, Jessica Farchica, Megan Purnell, Donna Nicholls, Rhian Leonard & Lorna Hart. Subs – Carmen Herridge, Lindsey Short & Cara Clarke.

 ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Kathleen Tilbrook, Kate Theobald, Olivia Menton, Livi Caffarelli, Donna Woodcock (C), Vicky Beeton, Annabelle Marsh, Lily Turner, Louise Harwood, Amy Ellis & Laura Todd. Subs – Jade Flack, Anita Butters, Rachael Turner, Shona Kelly & Nicole Bailey.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

The teams lining up before the final

ICA Sports to get the Cambridgeshire Junior Invitation Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing royal blue shirts with a white and navy band across the upper chest. Royal blue shorts with blue and white hooped socks. Isleham lined up opposite wearing green shirts, black shorts and socks. ICA Sports putting the ball long to the left early on Isleham able to see it out for a goalkick as Donna Nicholls gives chase

 ICA Sports put pressure on the ball prevent Isleham getting out of their half win a throw high on the left the ball worked in towards the top of the area, Livi Caffarelli defending for Isleham. Breaking up an ICA Sports attack Isleham bring the ball away on the left, Lily Turner carrying it forwards plays the pass inside to Vicky Beeton as she crosses over halfway, the midfielder sending the pass on out to the left with Amy Ellis providing the run taking the ball down to the byline sends a cross flashing in along the face of the ICA Sports goal, Laura Todd closing in on the far post isn’t too far away from connecting with the ball.

  Isleham bringing the ball on again right side this time the ball sent in towards Todd making a run into the area near side, Becky Shields, ICA Sports captain going with her heading the ball putting it away to the right Isleham retrieving the cross swept in goalkeeper Claire Knibbs claiming the ball. ICA Sports break through the centre the ball pushed on through to attacker Lorna Hart in behind strikes the ball from 25 yards out pulls her effort wide of the post. 

Becky Shields winning the header for ICA Sports Ladies

 

 Following a corner on the left ICA Sports have bodies forwards as they squeeze possession back from Isleham Jessica Farchica closing in on the top of the area seeing her shot charged down goes after the rebound out to the right getting hold of the ball holding off a challenge turned well to get inside attack the goal near post, goalkeeper Kathleen Tilbrook making a great save at her near post, the ball scrambled behind for a corner kick. Caffarelli with another good defensive challenge to deny Zoe Luddy for ICA Sports as she breaks beyond the midfield played in by Hart central.    

GOAL! ICA Sports score the opening goal of the game taking an early lead as they did in the League Cup Final. The ball played on down the left Nicholls with Megan Purnell getting on her pass slide on into the box Hart timing her run perfectly getting onto the ball and picking her spot left of goal sends the ball past the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

Lorna Hart opens the scoring for ICA Sports Ladies

ICA Sports look to build on their lead Hart going towards the ball played out to the right holding it up well outside the Isleham area before shifting it inside to fire a cross along the six yard box, two ICA Sports players at the far post Purnell one of then, controls and spins into a shot, the ball charged down. Isleham get the ball clear, ICA Sports regain central and turn play around, Farchica moving with the ball towards the top of the area is stopped by Caffarelli.

  Isleham make a double change Olivia Menton and Kate Theobald off on come Anita Butters and Rachael Turner. Caffarelli with a fantastic tackle on Hart to stop the attacker as she looks to force her way past her into the box. Todd comes off for Isleham, Nicole Bailey coming on. Annabelle Marsh breaks forwards for Isleham as they build through the middle the ball out to her on the left side, Holly Partner getting back on her to tackle for ICA Sports. Lily Turner getting up to support Marsh latching onto the ball delivering a cross into the area the ball claimed by Knibbs.

Isleham United Ladies, Livi Caffarelli

Caffarelli winning the ball at the back for Isleham is fouled as she tries to carry it out from the back. Hart moves away into the right channel as Luddy plays the pass from the middle out to her the attacker turning her marker as she enters the box and making a driving run towards the near post tries to lift a shot over the keeper with the outside of her boot, Tilbrook holding onto the ball for Isleham. Rhian Leonard moving over to the left for ICA Sports looks to have gotten clear in behind as a clearance rebounds off her from Caffarelli, the defender showing great pace however recovers well getting back on her inside the box sliding in to take the ball away for a corner. 

Her knees taking a bit of a battering upon the artificial surface Caffarelli comes off after treatment on the pitch, Menton coming back on going to left back as Ellis drops back into the defence. Ellis called into action straight away defending well up against Hart as the ball is fired low into her from the left. Carmen Herridge has come on to join the attack for ICA Sports Ladies replacing Purnell. Herridge attacking the ball top of the area left channel, Ellis closing the ball down for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Amy Ellis

   Purnell isn’t of for long as she replaces Leonard for ICA Sports. Isleham captain Donna Woodcock defending up against Hart inside the box as Herridge moving to the right sends the cross back into the area. The corner conceded the ball put into the mix from the right is clear by Isleham falling to Purnell positioned inside the D her 1st time strike is well wide of the mark. Sarah Rouse defending for ICA Sports as Isleham’s Bailey looks to get in behind through the middle. 

Carmen Herridge with the ball for ICA Sports Ladies

Caffarelli back on for Isleham straight away wins the ball back form Hart as she looks to find a crossing position on the left. Isleham launching a counter attack Lily Turner showing a good turn of pace bringing the ball on up the left wing covering alot of ground the ball squared across the face of the ICA Sports area, Ellis pressing the defender on the ball steals possession and turning into the box fires a shot in towards goal, Knibbs getting down makes a great save. Woodcock with a fine recovering tackle as Purnell latches onto a poor kick out from the back looking to get herself into the box.

GOAL! The half -time whistle approaching ICA Sports extend their lead attacking down the left the ball cut inside brought into the area and stabbed in near post Herridge on the end of the cross spinning into the shot and sending the ball past the keeper and over the line 0-2.

Half-time Isleham United Ladies 0-2 ICA Sports Ladies

  2-0 the half-time lead for ICA Sports Ladies have dominated play without really getting into their stride. Largely down to the fact Isleham have pressed the ball really well, winning several vital challenges at the back preventing ICA Sports getting one on one with the keeper. Have attacked themselves with limited success but after conceding an early goal haven’t let the game get away from them, ICA Sports managing to double their lead on the stroke of half-time.

Onto the 2nd half both sides making a goalkeeper change at the beginning of both playing an outfield player in the position. Knibbs is replaced by Hart, Tilbrook replaced by Bailey. The floodlights on for the 2nd half it’s Isleham to get thing’s underway. ICA Sports put pressure on the ball straight away getting it on win a corner on the right. 

  Isleham get the ball forwards Shona Kelly and Todd also on for Isleham the ball out to the left for Lily Turner runs with the ball before sending a cross into the area, Hart taking the ball into her body at the near post. Lily Turner fed the ball on the left takes it on once again sweeping a cross into the area Rouse defends for ICA Sports with Rachael Turner closing in from the right flank. An encouraging start to the 2nd half for Isleham Beeton taking a shot at the ICA Sports goal from distance the strike wide. Pressing the ball well all over the pitch. Antonucci defending for ICA Sports at left back as she gets in between Rachael Turner and Beeton as they look to link up attacking down the right.

Beeton getting forwards into the area as Isleham get bodies forwards ends up fouling Rouse as she gets control of the ball. Rouse with a good piece of defending at the top of her area as Lily Turner attacking down the left sends the ball in across the area, Todd looking to try and bring it down, Rachael Turner closing in the ICA Sports central defender winning the ball. Up the other end Isleham need to be wary of getting hit on the break Farchica on for Herridge, she tries to muscle he way through into the box Caffarelli defending for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Laura Todd

  Lily Turner with the ball attacking for Isleham left side cuts inside 30 yards out Kelly in support takes on the shot the ball gathered by the keeper. Claire Knibbs joining the action up top for ICA Sports. Knibbs with a run into the right channel fed the ball from the wing, shifts the ball well between her feet inside the D before sending a shot skipping off the surface in towards goal Bailey making a good reactive save with her feet. Farchica winning the ball in the middle slides it on for Knibbs looking to attack the Isleham box, Ellis with a good tackle conceding the corner. 

ICA Sports Ladies, Donna Nicholls

  ICA Sports having started the 2nd half slowly are starting to build momentum winning a corner on the right the ball swung in near post attacked by Shields knocked on into the middle claimed by Bailey. Nicholls on the left for ICA Sports Antonucci getting up with her to support, Knibbs taking the ball on to the byline cutting a cross back in along the face of goal, Bailey able to gather for Isleham. Knibbs caught in an offside position a couple of occasions.

  Kelly cutting the ball out in the middle for Isleham sets up an attack Rachael Turner away on the right taking the ball to the edge of the box looking for Todd making a run near post gets her foot around the ball sends it wide into the side netting. Rachael Turner getting help from Beeton on the right wins her side a corner kick, a great delivery in towards the top of the six yard box near post Kelly there unmarked gets her head on the ball sends it up over the crossbar.

  Rouse intercepting at the back for ICA Sports brings the ball on before playing it out to Nicholls on the left, support from Knibbs, Woodcock defending for Isleham. Nicholls with the ball left side comes on a one two with Knibbs the final ball played into the area too heavy for Nicholls to run onto. Shields getting back well to push the ball into her keeper as Todd makes a strong central run for Isleham as the ball is rolled into her path. Changes for Isleham Butters back on Jade Flack also on for Todd up front. 

 Nicholls dropping her shoulder looks to take the ball inside from the left, Caffarelli closing her down for Isleham regaining possession. Bailey makes the save as Farchica gets herself forwards and into space for ICA Sports in attack top of the area looks to open her body curl the shot around the keeper, Bailey getting her gloves onto the ball. 15 minute left ICA Sports having to work to keep their 2 goal lead are starting to find spaces appearing at the back, Knibbs with some clever runs to draw players out.

  A free-kick right on the edge of the area for ICA Sports, Purnell rushing up to take it, gets her strike up and over the wall but Bailey is there in the right place to catch the ball. Rouse with the defensive header as Isleham send the ball long through the middle. Rachael Turner in behind on the right a low cross in along six yard box Hart scooping the ball up for ICA Sports. 

 GOAL! Isleham have down well 2nd half finally though their defence is breached for a 3rd time as ICA Sports make the scoreline more comfortable in the final 5 minutes of the game, Rouse getting forwards playing the ball on for Knibbs right side taking in towards the corner of the area fires a low shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner 0-3.

Isleham press the ball through the middle Harwood getting it on for Flack trying to force her way into the area, challenging the defender, the ball is squeezed through Harwood latching onto it sending her shot over the bar. Antonucci backed up by Rouse regains the ball inside the area as Beeton attacks it down the right. A late free-kick for ICA Sports halfway inside the Isleham half Purnell to flight the ball on into the area, attacked near post Bailey does well a corner conceded the ball landing on the roof of he net. The final whistle goes and ICA Sports win the final 3-0 and end their season with double cup success.

Full time Isleham United Ladies 0-3 ICA Sports Ladies

   An entertaining 2nd half to the game. Isleham United Ladies giving a good account of themselves attacked well 2nd half and for a spell looking the more likely to score. ICA Sports having to work for the win in the end. Took their chances well in the 1st half going 2-0 ahead a 3rd goal coming late on to make thing’s comfortable. An enjoyable final if very chilly. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Picking this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match it’s a close run thing between 2 players one for either side and both wearing the number 6 shirt. Have to pick one however those are the rules. Livi Caffarelli with some great defensive work at the back for Isleham United Ladies, contested every ball and make more than one tackle inside her box to prevent a shot being taken. Sarah Rouse takes the award up the other end for ICA Sports. Making some vital challenges winning headers. Composed as Isleham gained some confidence in attack in the 2nd period.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners 2017/18 ICA Sports Ladies

Congratulations to ICA Sports on winning this evening’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final and completing a Cup Double.

  My thanks to both sides for there help with the teams and describing the 3rd goal to as I completely missed it. Happens sometimes. Think that’s my finals over for the season but temptation might get the better of me.

Cup Final Report – ICA Sports Ladies v Newmarket Town Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

Wednesday 2nd May

  The Cup Final action continues this week on Women’s Football East this Wednesday, hot on the heels from watching the Suffolk Women’s League Cup final a trip to Cambridgeshire to watch ICA Sports Ladies versus Newmarket Town Ladies competing for the Women’s League Cup.

 An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Clash, Peterborough side ICA Sports Ladies playing the 1st of two finals they have reached this season with the postponed Junior Invitation Cup Final coming up on the Wednesday 16th May at Newmarket Town FC against Championship South side, Isleham United Ladies. This evening though the focus is on the League Cup. Have progressed in the competition as there form has improved through the season picking up well after a slow start losing there 1st 3 league games some notable results along the way to including beating Premiership leaders St Ives Town Ladies in the semi-finals of the League Cup.

  Newmarket Town Ladies have had a great season to date, an early run in the FA Women’s Cup knocking out higher league opposition have as a result been playing catch up in the league now into the final run in lay in 2nd spot behind St Ives Town Ladies and a well positioned to challenge should there rivals slip up.  Reaching the League Cup Final have scored plenty of goals throughout the season and have several goalscorers in their squad. 

Both sides into their 1st League Cup Final.

Road to the Final 

  A walkover in the 1st Round for ICA Sports Ladies whilst Newmarket Town Ladies racked up a rugby score away to Championship South, Burwell Tigers these score pop up one or twice a season 30-0 to the Premiership side. Into the 2nd Round and ICA Sports were at home taking on Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies a brace from Donna Nicholls along with a goal each for Hayley Jones, Jessica Farchina and Megan Purnell seeing ICA Sports progress to the quarter finals with a 5-1 win. Newmarket were on the road taking on fellow Premiership side Park Ladies. The goals spread around with Cindy Ponder, Amanda Stacey, Brooke Wickens, Antonia Smith Sarah O’Rourke and Chloe Slater scoring in a 6-1 win.

  ICA Sports were at home in the quarter finals taking in Championship South title hopefuls Histon Ladies Reserves. A close game Histon leading 1-0 at half-time a goal from Megan Purnell squaring it up at 1-1 to send the tie into extra-time, no more goals it went to penalties ICA Sports emerging victorious with a 3-2 win to reach the last 4. Another away trip for Newmarket taking on Championship South side Isleham United Ladies. A comfortable win seeing them into the last 4, both Abbi Griffin and Laura Bailey scoring twice with a goal each for Chloe Slater and Jess Linger in a 6-0 win.

  Both semi-finals played on neutral territory at the Fulbourn Recreation Ground. A great result for ICA Sports in the semi-finals drawn against Premiership leaders St Ives Town Ladies. ICA Sports in good form the sides were goalless at the break the winning goal coming in the 2nd period, Lorna Hart with the goal to send ICA Sports into the League Cup Final. Newmarket were taking on Cambridge University Women. Newmarket continuing their good form in front of goal reaching the League Cup Final courtesy of a 5-1 win, Jordanne Sillitoe scoring a brace with Abbi Griffin, Amanda Stacey and Chloe Slater all getting a goal.  

 3 times the sides have met in the league this season Newmarket winning 2 of those encounters 4-1 whilst the other game ended in a goalless draw. League form however goes out the window in any cup game.

   The venue for this evenings Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance The Ellgia Stadium, home of Ely City FC. Has been a while since I was last here, there is now a new cinema and restaurant complex build on the land leading to the ground off the A10. The rugby club, tennis, golf and football ground still beyond. New dugouts, the pitch looking in good condition a little bobbly offers good width. Concerned earlier above whether the game would be on heavy rain falling for a while late morning into the afternoon but it cleared and pleasant and mild afterwards, perfect weather for a game of football… about time too.

ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Clare Knibbs, Steph Pepper, Holly Partner, Sophie Antonucci, Becky Shields (C), Sarah Rouse, Jess Farchica, Zoe Leddy, Megan Purnell, Donna Nicholls & Lorna Hart. Subs – Rhian Leonard.

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Brooke Wickens, Beth Woodfield (C), Cindy Ponder, Jess Linger, Laura Bailey, Chloe Slater, Antonia Smith, Abi Griffin & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Sarah O’Rourke, Frankie Torrance, Joeli Kirby, Amanda Stacey & Lauren Deller.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Just the one substitute available for ICA Sports, Newmarket having several attacking options available on theirs. It’s ICA Sports to get the first half kicked off, wearing royal blue shirts with a white and navy band across the top, royal blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks. Newmarket wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. 

ICA Sports put the ball forwards right from the off showing attacking intent, Lorna Hart the target , Beth Woodfield captaining Newmarket heading the ball away at the back. Donna Nicholls receiving the ball form Jess Farchica drives forwards on the right tackled by Newmarket full back Yasmin Woodfield. ICA Sports with a good start lively getting players forwards have Newmarket penned back in their own half. 

Newmarket Town Ladies captain, Beth Woodfield heading the ball clear.

  A throw deep on the left into Hart the striker putting the ball inside for Farchica, Newmarket tackle the ball cleared, ICA Captain, Becky Shields bringing it down on halfway, builds another ICA Sports attack. Newmarket haven’t settled, ICA Sports taking full advantage goalkeeper Eloise Hope rushing out of her area to clear the ball for Newmarket as Hart is put in over the top. Newmarket have the ball the pass out to striker Jordanne Sillitoe moving away to the left, her crossfield ball coming to Abbi Griffin in space on the right takes it forwards her cross into the box gathered by ICA Sports goalkeeper Clare Knibbs at her near post.

   Nicholls on the left the ball up to Hart, Cindy Ponder going up for the ball with striker the ball out for a throw-in on the left. Played into Nicholls top of the area, inside for Hart played on across the D for Zoe Leddy, taking the all away to the right making room for a shot sends a low strike angling in towards the far post, Hope is in position to gather the ball. Laura Bailey with the ball inside the ICA Sports half plays the pass out to Brooke Wickens running forwards on the left taking it to the edge of the box the ICA Spots defence close on her no room for a strike a regain possession of the ball. 

ICA Sports Ladies, Donna Nicholls

  Counter attacking the ball played up to Hart she knocks it down to Nicholls breaking in behind on the left, Ponder coming across to slide in and take the ball away from her. Hart leading the line for ICA Sports the ball played into her 25 yards from goal central bringing it down turns and strikes the ball in towards goal her effort straight at Hope the Newmarket goalkeeper claiming the ball. 

GOAL! ICA Sports capitalise on their good start take the lead as Hart forces a mistake at the back the ball played into the left channel the striker going after it as it runs into the box Beth Woodfield trying to shield it back to her keeper, Hope comes out sliding in, Hart on Woodfield’s back the ball is touched by the defender taking it out of Hope’s path leaving her goal exposed Hart alive getting around the Newmarket pair and sending the ball into the back of the empty net 1-0. 

Lorna Hart with the opening goal for ICA Sports Ladies.

  Newmarket were planning a change before the goal do it before the restart Antonia Smith giving way for Frankie Torrance who goes into left back pushing Wickens further up on the wing. Bailey with the ball into Sillitoe left side her lay off to the advancing Torrance 20 yards from goal her attempted strike charged down by the ICA Sports defence. Megan Purnell with the ball attacking on the right wing for ICA Sports screws a shot wide from 25 yards out. The positive start from ICA Sports has them full of confidence, Newmarket rattled are disjointed

 Jess Linger with the ball in the centre for Newmarket on for Sillitoe ahead of her spins the ball out to the left with Wickens bombing on, Shields coming across to clear the ball out for a throw top of the area. Sillitoe taking the throw down well into her body turns and sends a cross into the area, Knibbs can easily gather. Getting early goal they were after ICA Sports have settled forming a solid shape at the back not showing as much attacking intent. Nicholls a threat on the left. Ponder tackling in the middle of the Newmarket defence as Hart looks to force her way in on goal. ICA Sports make a change, Rhian Leonard coming on for Holly Partner. 

Brooke Wickens bringing the ball on for Newmarket Town Ladies

  Bailey plays the ball forwards Sillitoe leaving it to run on through as Wickens runs clear in behind on the left side, Purnell going with her tackles her on the edge of the area. A free-kick wide left for Newmarket, Linger on it a good distance goes for goal the ball wide of the near post. Torrance bringing the ball on down the left on for Sillitoe the Newmarket striker beating a coupe of players before sending a diagonal ball into the box Griffin with the central run the ball too close to the keeper Knibbs down to gather before her goal is threatened.

   Hart strong on the ball gets the better of Beth Woodfield wide left puts a cross/shot in towards goal the ball flashing out wide at the far post across the goal face. Bailey opens up her body sliding the ball into Sillitoe to attack the ICA Sports, no shot on as the opposition are quick to converge, Farchica with Sarah Rouse a shield in front of their defence. Newmarket haven’t got going properly at all, attacking room in the final third but closed down quickly passing options aren’t on. ICA Sports bringing it away Hart always ready yo turn in behind up top. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe with ICA Sports, Steph Pepper.

  Into the closing minutes of the 1st half, Leonard forwards on the right for Newmarket played in down the line coming inside Ponder tackling the ball out for a corner kick. Defended near post a goal kick awarded. Rouse sending the ball back into the area as Newmarket initially clear it, bouncing Hart at six yards out Hope does well up against her, her punch taking it off her head knocking it to the floor is first to it and gathers. A free-kick inside the ICA Sports half for Newmarket, Linger has Yasmin Woodfield in space to her right she is supported by Griffin working the ball forwards Leddy wins the ball back for ICA Sports before any cross can be delivered.

Half-time ICA Sports Ladies 1-0 Newmarket Town Ladies

  A strong 1st half performance from ICA Sports showing attacking intent from the start, got Newmarket on the back foot and getting the goal they were after have sat back since. Newmarket are more often than not a free flowing attacking side, haven’t settled at all in the 1st half on this evening’s final a large part down to ICA Sports, haven’t tested Knibbs with a shot getting the ball in and around the box, Shields and Pepper strong at the back backed up well by Rouse and Farchica in front of them. Chances have been few the difference ICA Sports have taken theirs. A narrow lead to defend but Newmarket need to find more in themselves if they are to find a way back into the game 2nd half. 

The floodlights starting to take full effect as the light fades the sides out for the 2nd half. A change for Newmarket who get the 2nd half kicked off, Sarah O’Rourke up top supporting Sillitoe with Bailey off. Ponder moved into midfield, press the ball early Sillitoe inside for O’Rourke the substitute driving forwards to try and get into the box, Farchica sliding in to tackle. A counter attack for ICA Sports the ball played out to Nicholls bursting forwards on the left her pass inside to Hart runs in behind the return pass a little too heavy allowing Hope to come and gather.

Jess Farchica with the tackle to win the ball back for ICA Sports

 Pepper goes in to win the clearance for ICA Sports the ball played long up to Hart moving into the left channel, Beth Woodfield coming across to her to shield the ball out for a goal kick. O’Rourke with the ball deep on the left after a throw-in her cross fired in towards the near post Griffin getting in front of the keeper tries to flick the ball past her with her heel the ball running across the face of goal. Sillitoe with support from O’Rourke right side of the ICA Sports box pushing the ball into her Sillitoe coming inside receiving return ball her shot in curling wide of goal. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Cindy Ponder

Yasmin Woodfield on the overlap in behind as Griffin slides the ball into her run her cross in cleared by Pepper, comes straight to Ponder drives a shot back in towards goal on target but straight at Knibbs the keeper taking the ball safely into her body. Newmarket starting the 2nd period well players forwards into attacking positions ICA Sports remain a tough nut to crack. Hart the outlet up top for ICA Sports the ball played up to her tried to turn in behind is tackled by Slater. 

ICA Sports Ladies, Steph Pepper

  O’Rourke fouled by Shield as she looks to force her way forwards with the ball through the middle a free-kick in a dangerous position 25/30 yards out Linger takes on the shot her rising ball parried down and caught by Knibbs. A free-kick up the other end as Nicholls is fouled by Beth Woodfield 22 yards out left of the D. She shot striking the wall the rebound blazed high over the goal. 

Pepper comes across to tackle put the ball out for a throw on the right as Griffin is played in behind by Ponder. ICA Sports are standing strong against the Newmarket assault Sophie Antonucci bringing the ball on from the back on for Nicholls on the left the ball put out for a throw level with the top of the Newmarket area.

GOAL! ICA Sports double their lead off the throw in the ball rolled inside for Farchica having gotten into an advanced position 25 yards out no one on her shifts the ball and sends in a great strike towards goal looping up into the air has Hope worried back on her line it dips late on her striking the underside of the crossbar bouncing down and up again the angle taking it into the goal off the side netting 2-0. 

A further blow for Newmarket a triple change made Smith back on along with Joeli Kirby and Lauren Deller. Hart strong through the middle, Beth Woodfield doing well up against her to regain possession. Newmarket overloading the left side win a corner the ball curled in towards the near post Rouse defending for ICA Sports. A change for ICA Sports, Leonard off Purnell back on. Newmarket press players on attacking risk leaving gaps at the back, ICA Sports though defending resolutely are camped inside there half defending the box, Farchica cutting out a through ball for O’Rourke from Ponder. 

Another strike charged down by Pepper, Linger bringing the ball on. Kirby getting hold of the ball 25 yards out runs towards the area, now way through the ICA Sports defence. Newmarket rotate players in attack desperate to find goal. ICA Sports make a change a slight knock for Nicholls, Leonard returning. Into the final 5 minutes ICA Sports are working hard to keep Newmarket at bay happy for the ball to be played around 25 yards out letting no gaps appear especially through the middle. 

  Hart up top on her own always ready to go after the ball whenever it is launched clear one on one with Hope as the keeper comes to the top of the area a crunching 50/50 between the pair the ball could have gone anywhere runs out for a goalkick wide of goal as Hope picks herself up. Smith with the ball fr Newmarket forwards for Kirby, Pepper sliding in to tackle for ICA Sports. Into stoppage time all Newmarket, Knibbs claiming the cross has collected everything Newmarket have played into her box. ICA Sports standing firm right to the final whistle celebrate as they win the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup for the first time. 

Full time ICA Sports Ladies 2-0 Newmarket Town Ladies

  Have seen Newmarket several times this season, and they don’t need me to tell them they can play better. Finals can do that sometimes, have seen it for whatever reason you just don’t have the performance you know you’re capable of there on the day. Disappointment for Newmarket, however take nothing away from ICA Sports Ladies fully deserving of their success came with a plan and executed it perfectly, getting in front early and working hard as a unit to frustrate and prevent opportunities for their opponents. Defending resolutely at times got up the other end to score a 2nd goal wanted the clean sheet up the other end. One final won another to come.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A tough one this evening singling out just one player for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. It was a good solid all round team performance from ICA Sports. Lorna Hart leading the line well backed up by Donna Nicholls. At the back Steph Pepper put in some terrific tackles to prevent Newmarket’s attackers running through on goal. Sarah Rouse in midfield breaking up play along side Jess Farchina, excellent in disrupting Newmarket’s flow especially 1st half and with a great strike to score ICA Sports 2nd goal I have chosen Jess Farchina.

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Winners 2017/18, ICA Sports Ladies

Congratulations to ICA Sports Ladies on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup.

 My thanks to both sides for there help with the teams this evening. Thanks to Chris Abbott to for asking me to present the players their awards it was an honour one I certainly wasn’t expecting. Back to Ely again tomorrow for my 3rd final of the week the Division One Cup Final.

Match Report – ICA Sports Ladies v Riverside Rovers Ladies

ir1

Sunday’s match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from Peterborough, South Bretton Playing Field where ICA Sports Ladies were hosting Riverside Rovers Ladies in the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup. Newly formed this season competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, ICA Sports were taking on higher league opposition with Riverside Rovers Ladies having won promotion from the Premiership themselves having been formed just the season before. What a game it turned out to be going all the way plenty of goals too, for all of the match drama click on the link below to take you to the match report in full on the SWF Blog.

ICA Sports Ladies v Riverside Rovers Ladies