Tag Archives: Lawford Ladies

Match Report – Lawford Ladies v Wodson Park Ladies

Sunday 17th September

ERWFL Division One South

 Heading down into Essex this Sunday to watch a top of the table clash from ERWFL Division One South, with early leaders Wodson Park Ladies travelling to 3rd placed Lawford Ladies.

  The ERWFL representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid across the East reaching it’s full potential this season with 36 clubs across three divisions, (now down to 35 with East Bergholt United Ladies withdrawing from Division One South) makes an already competitive league all the stronger and improves the talent pool further down the pyramid as the game continues to grow. 

  Division One South, dominated by Barking FC Women last season as they stormed to the title to win promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division, the league looks more open this season with 5 new sides joining the league.

 Lawford Ladies themselves re-joining the ERWFL after winning the Essex Women’s Premier Division title in 2022. Bringing in some quality players during that campaign were solid in Division One South securing a 4th placed finish the northern part of Essex becoming a hot bed for female footballing talent in recent seasons with Lawford close to Stanway who now have two female sides, Stanway Pegasus joining the ERWFL this season after winning the Essex Premier Division last season and with Colchester United Women re-establishing a women’s side it is sure to remain competitive for the future.

  Lawford though not resting on their laurels retaining much of their squad from last season. Adding 5 new additions to the squad striker Iola Vanharen joining from Ipswich Town Foundation. Midfielder, Kim Edwards dual signing from Stowupland Falcons Women. Jess Gill coming to Lawford having played for East Bergholt United Ladies. Megan Foord from Stanway Rovers Ladies and defender, Liubov Liushnenko joined from AFC Sudbury. Came back from 3-1 down at half-time to draw 4-4 with newcomers Wormley Rovers Ladies on the opening day then followed that up with a 3-0 victory at home Stanway Pegasus Ladies. Good form to start the season progressed in the FA Women’s Cup last weekend with a 6-1 win away to fellow ERWFL side Histon Ladies.

  Wodson Park Ladies now one of the more established sides playing in the ERWFL joining the league originally under the Hertford Town banner became Wodson Park Ladies in 2019. The Covid hit season’s soon following, Wodson Park Ladies have been making progress season upon season initially struggling for results in the lower half of the table improved to finish 5th last season and are the early pace setters in the new campaign making an excellent start to the season undefeated taking 7 points from their opening 3 games to sit top of the table.

  Drawing 2-2 at home to Essex side Hutton Ladies the Hertfordshire side went on to record two strong wins on the road 3-0 at Grays Athletic and most recently a 5-1 win away to Cheshunt FC Women. Retaining most of their squad including influential captain Kristina O’Connell who was also top scorer last season with 13 goals. Bringing in two new players Billie Alexander and Natasha Smits with Rhiann Patmore also re-joining after a year out.

The John Lyall Pavilion the venue for todays game, my first visit here despite trying to get to a Lawford home game a couple of times last season. The ground a hive of activity when I arrive with numerous youth matches taking place across the multiple grass pitches with the clubhouse and changing rooms beside the carpark. The kitchen and bar open, certainly a community orientated club. The ladies game on the grass pitch nearest the clubhouse a good size offering plenty of with a good test for fitness levels. The weather still reasonably mild for the time of year no where near the heatwave from last week by warm enough to still wear shorts which is just as well because I still can’t comfortably wear trousers with my damaged knee. Rain on the way however and could be heavy umbrella on stand by just hope it stays away until after the game ends.

Lawford Ladies

 Lawford Ladies starting XI – Erin Hornby, Lilly Bueggeln, Sheena Foley, Zoe Smith (C), Abigail Head, Carman Joyce, Charlotte Bryant, Megan Foord, Cate Jackson, Georgia Box & Iola van Haren. Subs – Laura Allen, Taylor Wakefield, Jess Gill & Davina Smith.

Wodson Park Ladies

 Wodson Park Ladies starting XI – Philly Stephens, Rhiann Patmore, Christie Seakens, Eliza Weeks, Georgia Gannaway, Amelia Hall, Natasha Smits, Lucy Chapman, Zoe Martin, Hannah Kelly & Kristina O’Connell (C). Subs – Sophie Vale, Hannah Nash, Billie Alexander & Megan Kelly.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wodson Park travelling without a specialist goalkeeper, making the decision that 3 outfield players will each play a 3rd of the game in goal with Philly Stephens 1st to don the gloves. It’s the visitors to get the game underway kicking of the 1st half wearing their all red away strip with Lawford wearing sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, with sky blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to Natasha Smits in midfield she looks to play the ball out to the right, Lawford moving in fast to close the ball down particularly striker Georgia Box pressuring possession forcing a rushed pass the ball hurriedly cleared for a throw in.

Wodson Park’s Natasha Smits

  Cate Jackson on the left from the throw getting to the by-line and crossing for Lawford, stand in keeper, Stephens claiming it on the bounce inside her six yard box. Wodson Park with the ball out left Christie Seakens on for Lucy Chapman looks to thread the ball on for attacker Hannah Kelly pulling wide, Lilly Bueggeln closing her down the ball cleared for a throw. Wodson Park’s attackers looking to press the ball high, Kelly caught offside and the visitors quickly turn play around after regaining possession in the middle.

  The tempo fast as both sides look to get after the ball Lawford finding Box in the final third she gets it wide to Iola van Haren, Seakens sticking a leg out intercepting the ball for Wodson Park. Lawford looking to use the wide pitch have players breaking on up the wings, Megan Foord looking to link up with Van Haren on the right the final ball though travelling through to the keeper. On the left Jackson breaks into space only to see her cross cut out by Smits at the top of the Wodson Park area.

Cate Jackson breaking forwards on the left for Lawford

  Jackson providing a good outlet for Lawford in the opening exchanges, taking the ball on left side has Box bursting on ahead of her into the channel, Rhiann Patmore getting across the striker to clear the ball away for the throw. Lawford force a corner from the resulting throw in, the delivery high into the near side of the box Wodson Park defending the ball headed out to the left gathered by Lawford’s Charlotte Bryant fires a diagonal pass across the top of the area met by Foord right corner puts her foot through the ball, takes a nick of a Wodson Park player as it whistles over the bar. 

Lawford’s Lilly Bueggeln

  The corner comes into Carman Joyce top of the area, looks to drive into the area, Weeks stopping her with a good tackle. Lawford have bodies up press the ball played across from the left into Bryant 30 yards out catches the ball well striking it towards goal by Stephens is right behind it making a comfortable catch. Lawford exerting some meaningful pressure in the final 3rd, Wodson Park standing firm, counter on the left Chapman on for Kelly pulling wide her cross from deep lacking any pace an easy gather for Lawford keeper, Erin Hornby.

  Wodson Park looking to press high, Kelly and O’Connell though needing back up from their midfield, Lawford able to get themselves out of trouble with a cross field ball, Amelia Hall tackling to win the ball back for Wodson Park in the middle played forwards into her captain O’Connell attempting to release Kelly with the through ball left channel, Hornby quickly out of her area to put her foot through the ball. O’Connell with a clever hook over her shoulder as the ball falls to her 35 yards out sending it on for Kelly to attack right side of the area, Head closing her down to play the ball back to her keeper, hustled by Kelly, Hornby digs the ball out from under her feet to clear.

  GOAL! The deadlock broken in the 19th minute as Lawford win a throw halfway on the right the ball helped on played up to Box breaking in behind the Wodson Park defence top corner catches the shot beautifully to smash the shot in over the keeper to put the hosts into the lead 1-0. 

Georgia Box scoring the opener for Lawford Ladies

  Breaking up another Lawford attack soon after the restart Wodson Park break with purpose down their left flank Chapman with Kelly and O’Connell, Lawford across to close the ball down is deflected back into the middle picked up by Smits free 35 yards out has a go on goal her shot high and wide of the left post. Bueggeln taking the ball infield from right back looks to fire it forwards for Van Haren the pass intercepted by Weeks. 

Lilly Bueggeln with Kristina O’Connell

  Lawford regaining possession as Wodson Park don’t control the ball played out from their keeper, running into Bryant she sends the pass out to Jackson wide on the left wraps her foot round the ball sending a high ball into the area near side, Box under it can’t quite bring it down to put her foot though it as Georgia Gannaway scrambles it clear for the visitors. Lawford captain, Zoe Smith making a great tackle to halt Smits progress as Wodson Park look to force the ball on through the middle. 

Lawford captain Zoe Smith in to tackle Wodson Park’s Natasha Smits

 Space for Zoe Martin to run into on Wodson Park’s right, Jackson though tracks back to defend getting across her as she enters the box to put a risky ball back for her keeper to clear away to the right. Box flagged offside as she looks to break through the Wodson park defence to get on the end of the pass following a good run by Bueggeln. Kelly picking up a knock a pause in play as the attacker is assessed by okay to play on. Foley intercepting the ball as Patmore comes forwards for Wodson Park on the right.

Georgia Gannaway

 Half an hour played and Wodson Park make their first keeper change, Smits now donning the gloves as Stephens joins the attack with O’Connell dropping deeper. Sophie Vale also coming on to replace Hannah Kelly goes to the left. Joyce fouled for Lawford as she takes the ball out to the right giving the hosts a free-kick out wide, Box to lift the ball into the area near post Van Haren goes to attack it closely marked the ball wide for a goal kick. 

  Seakens doing brilliantly for Wodson Park in defence as Lawford attack on the right with Bueggeln coming on with the ball laying it forwards for both Foord and Joyce to chase, Seakens in between them racing back to winning the ball turning to clear. The hosts with some strong build up play attacking on the left Jackson inside for Box outside the area lays it out to the right, with Bueggein looking to attack it 25 yards out her shot charged down by Seakens.

Lawford’s Sheena Foley

  Foord taking the ball on right side lifting a high ball into the box, Smits coming for it takes it down into her gloves well with Box closing in. Vale top of the D with a good pass releasing Martin bursting away to the right taking the ball down to the by-line whips a dangerous ball across the Lawford six yard box, Foord clearing it behind for a corner kick. Put in across the six yard box is just a little too high as Weeks jumps for it.

Cate Jackson

  Joyce on the ball right for Lawford plays it inside for Box left of the D 25 yards out turns her marker to lay the ball on for Jackson breaking into the area ahead of her Smits out to meet her kicking the ball clear. Box lively in attack for Lawford showing good strength to get free hits a shot on the turn 25 yards out to the right of the area, the ball running wide past the far post. 

  Seakens cutting the ball out as Joyce looks to find Van Haren with the forwards pass the ball behind for a corner. The delivery nodded on across goal hooked clear by Vale at the far post. Lawford looking to finish the first half on the front foot. Wodson Park’s defence keeping things tight. Vale looking to provide an outlet with her pace on the left for the visitors checks inside eventually stopped by Foley. 

Wodson Park’s Zoe Martin

  GOAL! Out of nothing Wodson Park find themselves back on level terms as they bring the ball on left side Vale in possession out wide hits a hopeful ball high towards the Lawford goal, dropping out of the sky, Hornby knows she could be in trouble as the ball sneaks under the cross ball to bounce into the back of the net 1-1.

Sophie Vale celebrates after scoring the equaliser for Wodson Park Ladies

Wodson Park with their tails up, the management team trying to calm everyone down as Seakens with a rush of blood takes the ball on up to the area combining with Vale, Lawford defending conceding the corner. From the left a dangerous ball is dropped into the six yard box, just no Wodson Park player their to attack it. Seakens finds herself out on the right as Wodson Park regain possession in the closing seconds of the first half carrying the ball wide skips back inside into the box to have a shot on goal angled in low, Hornby down well on her line to save. 

Half-time Lawford Ladies 1-1 Wodson Park Ladies

  Wodson Park finding an equaliser out of nothing late on in the first half to see the sides go in all square at the break after a superb hit from Georgia Box had given the hosts the lead. Lawford using the pitch well getting on up the flanks putting some good balls into the area. Wodson Park defending solidly countering well looking to press the ball the strikers lacking support at times. The sides have cancelled each other out to some degree making for a competitive contest Lawford having good spells of possession without really imposing themselves on the game. Still all to play for.

  A few spots of rain at the start of the 2nd half, the umbrella needed will soon pass however. A change for Lawford at the break with jess Gill introduced at left back replacing Foley. Wodson Park unchanged. Lawford getting the 2nd half underway…

 GOAL! … the ball played into Joyce the midfielder spraying the ball out wide to Jackson up on the left from wide she strikes the ball hard into towards the near post Smits across to catch it, to her dismay doesn’t stick, loops up over her and rolls over the goal line beyond 2-1. Lawford retake the lead with barely 30 seconds played in the first half. 

Cate Jackson congratulated as her shot goes in off the keeper

  A blow for Wodson Park as Lawford look to make a strong start to the 2nd half Foord with the ball put out to Van Haren moving right breaks in beyond Seakens to attack the ball, Weeks across to clear the ball out for a corner on the right. A Wodson Park player sent tumbling as players move forwards to attack the powerfully hit ball cleared out to the right. O’Connell back to defend winning the ball of Bryant central twenty yards out as Foord plays it into her from the right.

  Seakens taking a knock for Wodson Park down for a moment but assessed and allowed to play on. A lengthy pause before play resumes. Gill from the back with an excellent pass to pick out Jackson on the left from the angle strikes the shot wide across goal. Vale with a knock in the back another injury concern for Wodson Park but despite being too eager to return is waved back on by the referee. Chapman and O’Connell combining well as they get on up the left for Wodson Park the cross in mopped by by Smith. 

Sophie Vale

 Seakens up well defending against Van Haren as Box looks to help the ball on into her in the final 3rd. Foord bringing the ball on well for Lawford down the right in behind to whip a dangerous cross with pace into the six yard box, Jackson going for it can’t quite connect as she comes in central. Lawford with a strong spell Foord outside right turns inside on the ball 20 yards out bundled over giving the hosts a free-kick in a dangerous area. Jackson over the set-piece smashes the ball into the 3 player wall. Bueggeln gathers for Lawford on the right but looking to drive inside can’t get the better of Seakens.

  Lawford winning another free-kick to the right a little deeper this time, Jackson looks to curl the ball high aiming for the far post Smits can’t take any chances as she gets a glove on it to take it out for the corner. Players up from the back the in swinging delivery dropping like a peach for Gill in the centre of the six yard box gets her head on the ball but no control sends the header wide back past the near post.

Lawford winger, Megan Foord

  Lawford playing on through the middle into Foord outside the D helps it on for Box looking to get into the box left of the D, Patmore stepping in to win the ball. Wodson Park making another keeper change, Gannaway going into goal as Smits comes off replaced by Hannah Nash. Bueggeln carded as she pulls O’Connell back presenting a free-kick to the visitors in a dangerous position 2o yards out to the left of the D.

 GOAL! O’Connell on the ball, goes for goal a fantastic ball hit over the wall high to curl in down over the keeper into the back of the net seeing the visitors back on level terms for the 2nd time in the match 2-2.

Captain, Kristina O’Connell levels the scores for Wodson Park

  Lawford get on the attack with Foord getting the ball down spreading play out to the left channel with Jackson looking to break on, Weeks in to clear the ball, Lawford pressing winning a corner on the left. The ball whipped into the six yard Smith their to attack it but can’t get a touch. Lawford making a change bringing of Joyce to be replaced by Davina Smith. 

The goal has help Wodson Park’s confident no end as they find an extra burst of energy to get after the ball, Lawford still a threat quick to turn play around, Bueggeln finding Foord racing into the corner turns inside the fire a ball across the face of goal, Gannaway down may have gotten a touch to take it away from Davina Smith closing in at the far post. 

  Lawford winning a free-kick wide left outside the box, Box placing the ball hits it hard against the wall, Wodson Park looking to hit their opponents on the break, Stephens after the ball, Gill getting a nibble on the ball enough to slow it down, Stephens nevertheless persistent to reclaim it and carry it on up the line shooting on the angle, Hornby with a reactive save with her leg to clear the ball away back to the right Stephens to put it in again this time Head sends in clear.

Abigail Head

 Wodson Park make a change bringing of Hall in midfield a straight swap with Smits back on. Wodson Park pressing the ball better frustrating Lawford, Bueggeln winning it back for Lawford sends a great ball into Box she looks to turn swing it over the top for Van Haren central not quite Jackson beyond flagged offside. Vale strong on the ball through the middle sprayed out to Stephens right side in a race with Gill trying to get into the area gets a shot away under challenge put straight into Hornby.

  Chapman defending as Foord attempts to play Box in on the right. Taylor Wakefield coming on for Lawford replacing Van Haren. Martin too off for Wodson park with Megan Kelly entering the game. Wodson Park conceding a corner kick as Jackson’s cross from the right is headed behind. Delivered high into the area the header won by Seakens back out to the right Bueggeln playing it inside for Zoe Smith 20 yards out drives the short narrowly wide of the right post. 

  Megan Kelly looking to turn on the ball accidentally stands on Foord’s foot, a painful blow that sees the winger needing to come off, Laura Allen her replacement. Wodson Park play the ball on for Megan Kelly into space up the left her cross whipped in near post attacked by Stephens off the goalkeeper for a corner kick. Before it’s taken a chance made by the hosts Zoe Smith can’t continue Foley comes back on. The corner won by Bryant cleared for a 2nd corner whipped in with pace into the six yard box attacked by both Weeks and Seakens the ball turned over the bar.

Laura Allen looking to close down Christie Seakens

  Box pulling right tussling with Chapman to get in behind the ball off the defender for a throw as the game enters the final 10 minutes. Box out on the left working hard in attack her shot tame in the finish as it runs into Gannaway at the near post a spot of cool goalkeeping as she flicks the ball up off her boot into her gloves. The game lively now both sides feeling they can still get the winner O’Connell into Megan Kelly a corner won the in swinging ball claimed well by Hornby into her midriff. 

  O’Connell coming off to be replaced by Hannah Kelly the visitors attacking on the right Stephens ball from wide wrong footing the keeper as she goes to kick clear but also Megan Kelly as it runs wide behind her. Wodson Park with a strong finish Lawford making a change Van Haren back on for Jackson. Bryant with a shot from distance over for Lawford. Box frustrated as she gives a free-kick away in a similar position to Wodson Park’s equaliser, no O’Connell to take, Vale on it a little deeper this time goes to curl the ball in wide of the far post the ball dropping behind over Hornby’s crossbar. 

Megan Kelly

 Wodson Park with one late push getting on with the ball Smits into Megan Kelly finds Vale wide on the right sends her angled shot wide of the near post. 

Full time Lawford Ladies 2-2 Wodson Park Ladies

  The game finishes all square 2 apiece with Wodson Park coming back twice to level. Finishing the half strong finding a renewed confidence from their goal, frustrating Lawford who started the 2nd half strong getting after the ball and creating some very good chances will be disappointed they didn’t capitalise. Wodson Park working hard to keep them at bay coping well with three keeper changes throughout the match, stay top as both sides maintain their unbeaten starts.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders for this one, however I had a fair idea who I was going to award it to leaving the ground and the notes have helped confirm it. Plenty of good performances from both sides, Firstly for Lawford striker Georgia Box was strong up top getting in to win the ball and close the defence down got into some great positions and took her goal well. Cate Jackson very good out wide on the left getting into space a good outlet throughout. Lilly Bueggeln defending well and getting forwards with some purposeful runs on the ball. For Wodson Park credit goes to Philly Stephens, Natasha Smits and Georgia Gannaway for all taking a stint in goal. Kristina O’Connell pressing the ball well scoring the 2nd equaliser. Sophie Vale made a real impact when she came on with her pace attacking on the flank. Eliza Weeks with some great tackles at the back. The award though goes to another Wodson Park defender, Christie Seakens, was strong in defence all game, winning the ball well and preventing several Lawford attacks.

 Enjoyed my first trip to The John Lyall Pavilion, again another good advert for the ERWFL a good setup be interesting to see how Division One South develops. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team info today as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Lawford Ladies v Chelmsford City Women

Sunday 22nd May

Essex Women’s League Cup Final 

A trip down into Essex for my penultimate game of the season, with Lawford Ladies taking on Chelmsford City Women in the final of the League Cup.

Today’s prize

  The two sides will be very familiar with each other by the end of next weekend as they have yet to meet this season and face a double header on the final day to determine who will become Premier Division Champions. Meeting first in the final of the League Cup have attempted to see both sides play on a couple of ocassions this season already by a combination of Covid and the weather has thwarted those attempts. A frustrating season for both in many regards in that the ECWFL Premier Division is ending with 7 sides, 12 games for each side played yet it will go down to the final weekend of the domestic season. A number of factors playing their part, 2 teams have withdrawn from the league, weather and Covid too along with cup competitions. 

 Lawford Ladies have been out in front leading the Premier Division table from the start 5 straight wins are undefeated from 10 played with 8 wins and 2 draws with just the double header with title rivals Chelmsford to come. Games less frequent in the 2nd half of the season have bolstered their squad with the addition of former Billericay Town Women captain, Lindsey Morgan who brings a wealth of experience to the side. There own captain, Daisy Canny the driving force for Lawford in recent seasons with another strong campaign in front of goal netting 18 from her 9 appearances this season before getting injured. Lisa Ward 2nd in the goal scoring charts with 13 from 12 appearances. The season coming down to the final two Sunday’s with a potential double on the cards.

 That is also the case for Lawford’s opponents, Chelmsford City Women, although they could go one better and make it a treble having already won a trophy this season beating Division Two Champions, Stanway Pegasus Ladies 4-0 in the final of the Tiptree Charity Cup 2 weeks ago. Chelmsford have always been a strong side in Essex’s top division in and around the title contenders. Has been a strange season in which they have always been playing catch up with the rest of the league didn’t even start their league campaign until November with just a handful of games in the first half of the season.

 Drop-outs, Covid, weather and cup games all playing there part. When they have played however have been strong emerging as Lawford’s main rival for the title winning 8 of their 9 games played so far like Lawford unbeaten a point behind with a game in hand an crucial week to come with a cup final and 3 league matches to squeeze in a midweek trip to play Frontiers before meeting Lawford in what will be a league deciding double header next weekend. In attack, Rebecca Hollocks and Abigail Woollvin have scored 31 goals between them with Hollocks one ahead of Woollvin with 16 for the season so far.

Road to the Final

  The league cup competition kicking off in February, Lawford were drawn at home to Division One side Blackmore Ladies, goals from Laura Allen, Alison Hindley, Daisy Canny and Georgia Box saw Lawford leading 4-2 at half-time with another goal each for Hindley and Canny securing a 6-2 win. Chelmsford City Women with a tough opening game in the league cup at home to fellow Premier Division side Frontiers Ladies in the 1st Round. Goals from Hellen Alder, Rebecca Hollocks, Shannon Kelly and Abi Woollvin seeing them through to the 2nd round with a 4-1 victory.

  Lawford away to Division Two newcomers Southminster United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the League Cup progressed to the last 8 with a 2-0 win courtesy of a goal in each half for Canny and Liza Ward. Chelmsford advancing without kicking a ball awarded the away win against Aveley Ladies. Lawford at home to Division One side Tigers Ladies in the quarter finals Lindsey Morgan scoring to see the sides level at the break, 3 goals inside the opening 15 minutes of the 2n half seeing Lawford go on to win 4-1, Canny, Ward and Morgan with her 2nd on the scoresheet. Chelmsford taking on Division One leaders Corringham Cosmos, Alder, Hollocks and Mia Brisley amongst the goals as they went on to win the game 4-1 to advance to the semi-finals.

  A difficult tie for Lawford in the last 4 at home to Division One title challengers Hutton Ladies Reserves, a free scoring side, it was a high scoring game with Hutton finding the back of the net on three ocassions. Lawford though after fighting out a 2-2 draw in the first half went on to score a further 3 to win through to the final. Allen and Morgan scoring 1st half, Hindley plus a brace for Ward in the 2nd. In contrast Chelmsford were to advance without kicking a ball after opponents Southend United Ladies forfeited the game.

 Runwell Sports and Social Club hosting this Sunday’s final was here two season ago before the Covid hiatus to watch Harlow Town Ladies Reserves beat Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Entering the ground the large clubhouse overlooking the main pitch with numerous other grass pitches beyond. An archery range in the distance. Hot and cold drinks being served plus hot food. A bright and sunny day, hot with little cloud cover certainly no chance of rain during the game.

The teams lead out onto the pitch a presented to special guest Lana Gillard before kick-off.

Lawford Ladies

 Lawford Ladies starting XI – Erin Hornby, Alisha Blake, Saffron Heffer, Zoe Smith (C), Sheena Foley, Anna Ryan, Lisa Ward, Alison Hindley, Laura Allen, Lindsey Morgan & Nancy Butler. Subs – Toni Mott, Stacey Desborough & Daisy Canny.

Chelmsford City Women

Chelmsford City Women starting XI – Hannah Streetley Amy Vernon, Mia Brisley, Jess Loble, Gaby Freedman (C), Emma Rushen, Rosie Coe, Ashleigh Holland, Helen Alder, Kaci Crook & Abi Woollvin. Subs- Holly Richards, Melissa Burton, Amelia Murphy & Charlotte Palmer.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains. Zoe Smith and Gaby Freedman with the match officials

  Lawford to get the Essex Women’s League Cup final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing light blue and white vertical stripped shirts with light blue shorts and socks, Chelmsford opposite lined up in an all claret kit. The ball sent from the middle up the left channel for Lindsey Morgan to attack for Lawford, Mia Brisley dealing with it at the back for Chelmsford clearing it up the line the ball lost out for a throw in. 

 A competitive start out on the far side of the pitch the ball closed down out for a series of throw ins neither side making any head way. Cleared at the back into midfield Chelmsford look to get forwards Rosie Coe with the ball on for Emma Rushen through the middle lifts it on for Abi Woollvin up top, Sheena Foley winning the ball back for Lawford. Lawford losing the ball high on the right from a throw in Chelmsford are quick to counter the ball into Rushen central plays it early through the defence for Woollvin to run onto taking the ball on into the area right side s=her low shot is straight at Lawford goalkeeper, Erin Hornby making a comfortable save.

  A strong start to the game from Chelmsford closing down the ball, winning challenges looking to get forwards quickly, find Woollvin through the middle or Kaci Crook attacking right side. A free-kick for Chelmsford inside the Lawford half as Alisha Blake is adjudged to have handled the ball going to clear it for Lawford. Defender Jess Loble over the set-piece played in towards the top of the Lawford area, Anna Ryan wins it to clear for Lawford.

 GOAL! 5 minutes played and an early break through for Chelmsford, battling for the ball in midfield, the pass is lifted on for Crook in attack right channel beating the offside trap races on into the Lawford box, striking the ball low in the angle, Hornby reacting down sharply to stop it doesn’t get hold of it the ball rolling loose to her right, Woollvin running in with a simple tap in to give Chelmsford the lead 0-1.

Abi Woollvin congratulated by Helen Alder after she opens the scoring for Chelmsford

  Laura Allen out on the right in attack for Lawford sees the ball into her feet shifting inside 25 yards out attempts to thread it on for Nancy Bulter central, the pass cut out by Chelmsford captain, Gaby Freedman. Chelmsford are up for the game vocal encouraging each other on closing down the ball despite the heat. Rushen tackling to break up an attack. Attempting to find Crook again on the right, Foley across to clear the ball for a throw. 

Lawford’s Laura Allen with Chelmsford’s Helen Alder

  Rushen with a great diagonal ball looking for Helen Alder breaking forwards on the right looking to travel on into the box with the ball is forced wide by Lawford’s Blake the defender than tackling to win the ball back and clear. A few free-kicks being given away in the middle, Alison Hindley fouling to see Chelmsford with a set-piece inside their opponents half, sent long up into the box over everyone lands before Hornby the keeper seeing it bounce up over her goal. 

 Butler looking to take the ball on through the middle for Lawford after recieving it from a throw on the right, turns goalwards, Freedman strong on her shoulder getting her foot on the ball to hook clear. Lisa Ward pulling away to the left for Lawford angles a cross into the Chelmsford area the ball turned behind for a corner. Played long through the six yard box Morgan can’t get it down at the back post the ball cleared into the middle, Lawford press well regaining possession looking to turn play around into Allen right side lifted on the move ending with a throw.

  Allen looking to attack with the ball on the right, the move breaking down has another opportunity as she squares it central for Ryan 25 yards out, Freedman quick to close her down the ball cleared away for a throw. A more even game now Lawford looking to close the ball down higher up the pitch. A strong tackle in the middle from Lawford’s captain, Zoe Smith on Chelmsford midfielder, Ashleigh Holland the ball cleared out to the right the referee stopping play with Holland staying down. Up okay play to resume with a drop ball.

  GOAL! The ball with Chelmsford’s Amy Vernon at left back, Lawford switch off as the ball is played forwards Vernon clipping it long over the top with Woollvin breaking in behind through the middle, hesitates for a moment with no one after her no flag though she carries the ball on into the box right of goal and smashes her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner to score her 2nd of the game 0-2. 

Abi Woollvin doubles Chelmsford’s lead

 Lawford not happy with the goal, it stands however with play resuming with 20 minutes gone in the 1st half. Coming down the right Morgan with support from Ward the ball is crossed into the Chelmsford area, goalkeeper Hannah Streetley diving forwards to get hold of the ball with Ryan closing in. Chelmsford are quick to mount a counter attack the ball fed on through the middle on for Crook to chase into the box on the right, bouncing up between her and Hornby the goalkeeper, getting a strong fist on the ball to punch it away to her right. 

Lawford captain, Zoe Smith clearing the ball

  Butler pulling away into the left taking the ball on lays it back to Saffron Heffer coming on from full back for Lawford her cross looped on into the box, Allen can’t quite connect as she goes to strike it on the volley. Their opponents straight up the other end the ball played out to Woollvin moving into space wide left bombs on down the line turning into the area before opening up her body looking to place the ball wide across the keeper, only succeeds in picking her out, Hornby safely behind the ball. 

Lawford fullback Saffron Heffer

 Hornby busy as she comes rushing out of her area to clear with Woollvin put on through the middle. Rushen then picking up the ball in midfield looking to drive forwards for Chelmsford is eventually closed down. A hot day a drinks break called by the referee midway through the 1st half. Play resumes with Lawford looking to battle for the ball, a series of headers resulting in a throw right side, played in central Butler sending the ball over the defence into the box looking for Morgan, Streetley getting her gloves around it first. 

Emma Rushen driving forwards with the ball for Chelmsford

  Butler strong in possession outside the Chelmsford area on the right battling inside squares the pass into Morgan left of the D she in turn puts it back into the area right side with Hindley stealing in at the far post attempts to lift a shot in past the keeper, Streetley though is right behind it to make the blocking save. Lawford squeezing the ball in the final 3rd Hindley putting herself about sending the pass out to Heffer pushing up from full back shrikes the shot on the a angle from distance rises over the crossbar. 

Lawford defender, Alisha Blake

  Lawford winning a set-piece level with the top of the Chelmsford area on the right. Ward to play it into the box, Streetley is one of the tallest goalkeepers around makes a firm call and plucks the ball down unhindered. Another handball spotted on the left side giving Chelmsford a free-kick some 35 yards plus out Loble nevertheless takes on the shot getting the ball on target but drops kindly for Hornby who can see it into her midriff back on her line. Is a little niggle between the sides Lawford clearly frustrated. Adler keeping the ball in play well on the left side looks to get on held up keeps possession played back up to Vernon to cross into the Lawford area, Hornby with the call this time coming to catch the ball.

  Lawford finding a little joy out on the flanks, Morgan on the left pushing on her cross all the way across to Allen wide right turned back into the area, Vernon turns it behind for a corner. Fired into Morgan from the right, 20 yards out left of the  knocks it up into the area attacked by Ward knocking it across to the far post Streetley can let it go for a goalkick. Hindley taking the ball on down the eft in attack for Lawford strong holding it up well before angling a shot in towards goal, Streetley comfortably behind it.

 GOAL! A couple of minutes left in the 1st half, Lawford looking to attack late on get themselves back into the game are hit on the break the ball cleared long to the left side seeing Woollvin escape in behind race on to the box coming central Hornby out to close the angle Woollvin shifts the ball away from her to the left to open up the goal beyond and strokes her shot into the back of the net to get her hat-trick 0-3.

A cup final hat-trick for Abi Woollvin

  A change late in the half for Chelmsford with Amelia Murphy on for Crook in attack. Little time left to play the half-time whistle blows. Both sides retreating to the shade provided by the trees over behind the dugouts for their half-time team talks.

Half-time Lawford Ladies 0-3 Chelmsford City Women

 A strong 1st half from Chelmsford making a positive start taking the game to Lawford pressing the ball in the middle and looking to get it up to Crook and Woollvin in attack. That bright start bringing a goal inside the opening 5 minutes. Woollvin with her 2nd running in behind as Lawford switch off at the back following a drop ball. Frustration for Lawford going 2 goals down have looked to match things up with Chelmsford battling for the ball have gotten some joy a couple of half chances as they look to pull a goal back before the break, hit on the break late on Woollvin stealing in behind on the left to score her cup final hat-trick. Alot of work for Lawford to do if they are to get themselves back into the game, a hot day could be a case of who runs out of energy first Chelmsford can sit back more with a healthy lead to defend.

  It’s Chelmsford to get the 2nd half underway, don’t think there have been any changes made from either side. Look to get the ball out to the left, Smith in to win it for Lawford. Hindley and Rushen scrapping for the ball in the middle Hindley getting the free-kick this time. Ryan on the ball inside the Chelmsford half looks to go for goal, Streetley can see it over. Heffer on the left defending well against Murphy as she looks to get the ball down on the right and turn in behind. 

Alison Hindley battling for possession for Lawford

  Hindley getting about the pitch for Lawford winning the ball comes left turns inside sending it central with Ward running on free 30 yards out is caught in two minds as to strike the ball or clip it over the top with Morgan giving her the run left side. Picking her out Morgan sends a low cross into the box no one there to attack it however. Ward central sending the ball on through the middle, Hindley after it right of the D, Streetley out of her area to kick the ball clear. 

  Chelmsford with more bodies behind the ball allowing Lawford to come on making a positive start to the 2nd half as yet though to test the keeper. Roe brought down in the middle for Chelmsford following a strong challenge. Ward central with some useful passes forwards long for Morgan running on through the middle Streetley racing out to the top of her area, just about getting there to clear. Loble with the tackle to get the ball as Foley plays it on for Morgan out left side.

Lindsey Morgan

  Woollvin picking up the ball in midfield sends it out to Brisley advancing on the left, her crossfield ball looking for Alder, intercepted by Blake. Rushen taking the ball on through the middle for Chelmsford picks the pass for Alder on the left channel getting forwards, Blake closes her down the challenge seeing the ball behind for a corner. Fired in from the left attacked at the near post the ball is send wide across the Lawford goal.

Chelmsford’s Mia Brisley

  Lawford getting forwards on the right numbers up the pitch a throw won high, lifted on high into the area dropping central Morgan under it sees her touch take the ball wide of the left post. Ryan coming on with the ball from deep for Lawford going left comes inside, her attack stopped by Loble for Chelmsford. Morgan getting clear wide left flashes a cross into the six yard box the Chelmsford defence tracking back, Streetley has it covered, Vernon in front of her heading clear nevertheless.

  Ward springs the offside trap is clear through the middle for Lawford racing for the box, Brisley racing after her the goalkeeper advancing. Brisley diving in to tackle gets the ball before the player, Play halted however brought back as Ward went too early. Lawford creating opportunities, Chelmsford strong in defence however giving little away winning most things put into their area. Attacks less frequent as a result however Lawford need to stay alert at the back as Woollvin remains a threat, sprinting over to the right crossing over with Murphy the pair looking to combine Woollvin crossing the ball in Hornby down on it with Murphy closing her down.

Chelmsford’s Kaci Crook

  Morgan sending a clipped ball on through the middle for Hindley running on in behind, Streetley out to clear first Hindley unable to get out of the way colliding with the keeper, leaving her down for a moment winded more than anything else. Another drinks break is called. Chelmsford largely in control with Lawford coming on but unable to find that clinical final ball. Another long range goal attempt from Lawford on halfway from a free-kick Streetley can again see it over her goal. 

  Hindley carrying the ball on in attack for Lawford turning of Freedman to get into the box right side, Freedman back on her well lunging out with her boot to take the ball away from Hindley swerving behind for a corner. Rushen on through the middle with the ball on for Woollvin left channel put across to Murphy on the right side can’t turn in behind. Butler taking the ball of Ryan central running on looks to thread it on for Ward ahead of her, the ball cut out by the Chelmsford defence, Butler with a 2nd attempt playing it out to Morgan getting into the box left side, attempt to play her shot up over the keeper, Streetley with her angles covered getting hold of the ball.

Chelmsford captain, Gaby Freedman

 Chelmsford make a change bringing off hat-trick heroine in attack with Crook returning to the game. At the back Freedman across to deal with the threat posed by Ryan as she takes the ball on right for Lawford. Into the final 15 minutes. Lawford with a set-piece put high into the area Ryan up to knock the ball down across goal, no one can reach it before Chelmsford launch clear. Morgan driving on left side whips a low cross into the area, Vernon sliding in to clear for the corner. Send in deep from the left Freedman close on Morgan the ball put out the right Lawford winning the free-kick. Played in near side knocked up high into the air turned on towards goal, Streetley back on her line able to claim it high.

  Murphy comes off for Chelmsford as they strengthen the back line bringing on Holly Richards. Lawford making a change too, Stacey Desborough on for Blake to join the attack. Coming on right side Allen into Ward 25 yards out looks to strike the shot first time, frustrated as she sees her effort pulled wide  out at the far post. Holland on for Rushen takes the ball on for Chelmsford putting it on for Crook up top, Smith in close attendance tackling to regain the ball for Lawford.

  Allen comes off for Lawford on in her place Toni Mott she moves central in attack with Desborough going to the right. Time running out to find a goal try an pressure Chelmsford late on. Ward running on from the middle seeing a shot blocked the ball coming to Mott pulling in behind right of goal, Vernon on her to defend getting the ball back for her keeper to clear. Rushen and Alder look to combine through the middle in attack for Chelmsford, Smith getting hold of the ball for Lawford. The pairs last action of the game as they come off with Charlotte Palmer and Melissa Burton coming on. 

  Crook up top laying to ball off to Burton up on the right, her attempted pass in behind for Crook gathered by Hornby inside the Lawford area. Mott with the ball travelling right side into Morgan bursting for the area, Brisley on her shoulder doing enough to hold her up allowing the ball to run onto Streetley. Streetley thwarting Lawford right till the end as Morgan top of the area spins in behind on the right to shoot across the keeper, Streetley down well getting a glove to the ball to turn it away from goal.

Chelmsford goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley

Full time Lawford Ladies 0-3 Chelmsford City Women

  That’s it the final whistle blows and it’s Chelmsford who celebrate as they make it a cup double winning the League Cup final 3-0 thanks to a first half hat-trick from Abi Woollvin. A strong 2nd half from Lawford with Chelmsford looking to defend their lead. Chances created, Streetley for the majority standing firm in the Chelmsford goal. A positive start to the game energy from Chelmsford bringing them an early goal. Going on to double the advantage Lawford frustrated looking for a reply conceding a 3rd at the end of the half making it a tall order in the 2nd half, needed an early goal to put some pressure on Chelmsford defence looking comfortable.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few performances of note to mention first though. For Lawford it was a strong game in the middle for Liza Ward getting into some great positions, looking to get others into scoring opportunities. Alison Hindley too covering a huge amount of ground looking to get hold of the ball play it forward. For Chelmsford it was a solid performance in midfield from Emma Rushen. Her desire to win the ball right from the start setting the tone for Chelmsford. The defence strong throughout. The award contested by players at opposite ends of the pitch, Hannah Streetley was immense in the Chelmsford goal, Great positioning and vital saves. The Player of the Match award though goes to Abi Woollvin not too many players get to score a cup final hat-trick and her running and movement caused the Lawford defence issues especially 1st half as she ran at them on hand to score the opening goal and her 3rd late in the half taken well going along way to winning the trophy.

 Before the trophy could be presented however their was a delay a medical emergency that required an ambulance being called. One of the Chelmsford substitutes struggling with asthma struggling to breathe. No chances being taken the emergency service called an ambulance arriving in good time. Full credit to the NHS stabilising the player and ensuring she was okay. Takes priority over anything else. Albeit delayed the presentations going ahead.

Chelmsford City Women 2021/22 Essex Women’s League Cup winners

 Congratulations to Chelmsford City Women on winning the 2021/22 Essex Women’s League Cup.

  An enjoyable trip down to Essex, good to have the final back after a 2 year hiatus. An enjoyable contest. A cup double for Chelmsford little time to rest on their laurels however with 3 games still left to play away to Frontiers in midweek with the opportunity to move above Lawford in the league before they meet again at Lawford for a double header to end the season which one will be crowned champions it’ll be a tense final day. My thanks to both clubs for the team details and to the ECWFL committee for thier assistance this afternoon. One game left to end the season for me a midweek trip to Carrow Road for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 24th March

Essex Women’s Trophy Final

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Lawford Ladies

More Final action this Sunday on Women’s Football East the 3rd in 8 days, a trip down south this time to Aveley FC for the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this season being contested by Bowers & Pitsea Ladies & Lawford Ladies.

  A later kick-off for today’s final as part of #FemaleFinalsDay Essex County FA hosting 3 finals in one day for the first time all 3 as the hashtag suggests female. An early start with the U14s Girls Cup Final kicking off at 10am followed by the U16s Girls Cup with the Essex Women’s Trophy Final kicking of at around 4pm. A celebration of girls & women’s football across the county.

A great day to for Billericay Town’s girls sides with the club winning both trophies. Their U14s beating Tigers Girls (Yellow) 2-0 with both goals scored by Elise Jennings in the 1st half. Billericay Town Girls U16s also enjoying success with 2nd half goals from Freya Fuller, Bryony Barron & Mya Turner securing a 3-1 win over C&K Basildon. A successful day for Billericay Town Ladies youth sides a bright future the women’s Reserves side top of Essex Women’s Division One whilst the 1st team will be aiming to win the County Cup itself on Thursday 18th April.

  Onto this afternoon’s final, a new format for the Essex Women’s Trophy brought in last season, the sides knocked out in the early rounds of the County Cup getting a 2nd shot at winning silverware entering the Trophy. ERWFL Division One side, Hutton Ladies winning the trophy last year. Once again it will be an all ERWFL Division One Final.

  Bowers & Pitsea Ladies are an established side in the ERWFL, A new name merging with Bowers & Pitsea FC, having been Little Thurrock Dynamos, a strong partnership growing between the clubs the ladies side having a state of the art 3G pitch to play on are amongst the sides gunning for promotion in Division One. Have plans to grow a new Development side and U18s in the pipeline for next season.

  Lawford Ladies made the step up to regional football this season. A baptism of fire with a heavy loss in their opening fixture. Rallied well as they went on to win their next 4 league & cup matches were undefeated in six as they proved they could compete well at this level have held their own since in what has proven to be a very competitve league this season. Injuries of late have taken a toll along with player departures but the club has a large squad to call upon. 

  The two sides have met once so far this season their league game at Bowers & Pitsea’s Len Salmon Stadium seeing the home side win 3-2.

Road to the Final

   A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Into the quarter finals. Bowers & Pitsea were at home playing Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Southend United Ladies, goals from Georgia Fraser and Eloise Ives securing a 2-1 win. Lawford Ladies were on the road taking on another Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A brace from Stacey Teager along with goals from Erin Hornby, Susan Jackson, Hayley Chapman & Daisy Canny seeing Lawford with the game 6-2.

  Into the last 4. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were at home to another Essex Women’s Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers who can be a handful for anyone on their day. Drawing 1-1 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea scored twice in the 2nd half to book their place in the final with Georgia Fraser on target once again along with a brace for striker Sophie Dowman. Lawford Ladies were away to last season’s beaten trophy finalists Silver End United Ladies. The sides were drawing 2-2 after the 90 minutes were up heading into extra-time Lawford struck twice more to get through to today’s final,

The #FemaleFinalsDay taking place at Aveley FC. Is a smart new stadium boasting a fantastic looking clubhouse facility a large ground floor bar with suite upstairs both overlooking the pitch a kitchen serving hot food and drinks. Hosted the Essex Women’s County Cup Final last season. The finals day this Sunday, a glorious spring day bright and sunny, perfect weather (can’t say that very often). The 3G surface offering plenty of width. Seating on both sides of the pitch the clubhouse putting one side in shade as the sun begins to fall.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Stephens (C), Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Danielle Styles, Natalie Strange, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds, Holly Moore, Eloise Ives, Georgia Fraser & Sophie Dowman. Subs – Taylor Parrish, Kerrie Thomas, Alesi Harris, Keegan Russell & Emma Mackie.

Lawford Ladies starting XI – Jamie Newstead, Sheena Foley, Hayley Chapman, Chloe Butler, Ella Boyden, Megan Bamber, Claire Gauntlett, Tess Ryan, Jodie Sharp, Daisy Canny (C) & Susan Jackson. Subs – Michelle MacRae, Harriet Young, Erin Hornby, Jade Heath & Stacey Teager.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Bowers & Pitsea to get the final underway kicking off 1st half wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and red and white hooped socks with Lawford lining up opposite in sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defend the attempted crossfield diagonal ball right to left intercepted by Lawford midfielder Megan Bamber. 

Bowers & Pitsea press forwards coming inside from the left Holly Moore plays a cross into the area the ball intercepted by the Lawford defence the clearance straight back to Bowers & Pitsea sent back into the box low for Eloise Ives top of the area she turns well getting a shot away the ball running wide across goal. Jodie Sharp carries the ball on for Lawford sends a long diagonal ball on for captain Daisy Canny to chase down as she peels away to the right, Courtney Fraser at left back doing well in defence for Bowers & Pitsea preventing her getting in behind. 

  A positive start from Bowers & Pitsea the ball with Georgia Fraser pushed into Sophie Dowman the striker shooting from range 25 yards left of the D her attempt safe in the hands of Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead. Canny getting onto the ball likes to take players on makes progress down the left wing winning a throw in. The final ball in cut out by Natalie Strange at the back for Bowers & Pitsea who go straight on the offensive.

Lawford Ladies captain, Daisy Canny

  Play turned around as Bamber brings the ball on fr Lawford put forwards early up to the attackers, Susan Jackson putting pressure on the Bowers & Pitsea back line in an attempt to win it 25 yards out the ball deflected left straight into the path of Canny she takes it on into the area, goalkeeper an captain Charlotte Stephens out to try and close her down going to ground Canny taking the ball on around her left of goal the angle closing as she enters the six yard box her shot in cannoning away of the base of the near post. 

  Shaping up to be a lively game both sides looking to attack quickly, Ella Boyden for Lawford playing the ball up to Jackson, Danielle Styles winning it back for Bowers & Pitsea. Lawford are awarded a free-kick wide out wide, Sheena Foley to play the set piece the ball up towards the top of the area dealt with by Bowers & Pitsea’s Taylor Adcock. Courtney Fraser on for Holly Moore on the left her ball into the box for Dowman is closed down quickly no room to turn and get a shot away.

  Space on the right for Bowers & Pitsea as they counter the ball turned out wide to the wing by Dowman central she turns and bursts into the area as Ives takes it on getting into the corner her cross drilled in square towards the near post Dowman timing her run perfectly meeting it attempts to flick in on the ball put wide. Dowman and Georgia Fraser combine central 20 yards out the latter getting a shot in on target, Newstead right behind it. 

 Canny continues to cause problems for the Bowers & Pitsea defence in attack moving all across the back line coming right support from Tess Ryan, Styles moving out to close her down puts the ball out for a throw. Lawford gain ground on the left a throw put inside to Canny turning and pushing on inside the box wriggling away from her marker gets a shot away under challenge, Stephens down low to claim it at her near post. 

Chloe Butler clearing the ball for Lawford Ladies

  Ebony Moore with an opportunity to shoot as she gets forwards for Bowers & Pitsea drifting in central the ball coming to her following good work from Dowman on the left, her shot held by Newstead. Bowers & Pitsea are starting to stretch the Lawford back line find gaps in behind pull players out of position as they push players forwards, Adcock and Abbie Simmonds doing well in the middle of the park. Foley clearing for Lawford, they attempt to break Strange intercepts keeps the attack alive.

  GOAL! The ball played in towards Dowman who hassles the Lawford defence well trying to gain an advantage right outside the area sees Holly Moore free to her left the pass played into her Moore catches it sweetly her 1st time strike flying into the top corner to give Bowers & Pitsea the lead midway through the 1st half 1-0.

Holly Moore with a wonder hit to put Bowers & Pitsea into the lead

  Bowers & Pitsea regain the ball from the restart break with Ives away on the right her cross in high across the face of goal, Dowman jumping at the far post can’t get to it. Georgia Fraser has the ball fired into her 20 yards out, attempting to bring it down and get a shot away is closed down by Lawford’s Foley the defender winning the tackle. Sharp sends the ball on for Canny bursting away on the right, Styles across to challenge, the ball kept alive by Ryan who takes it on down the line before being fouled. The ball into the area cleared by Bowers & Pitsea. 

Lawford Ladies, Sheena Foley

  Simmonds central puts the ball in for Georgia Fraser turns infield 20 yards out lets fly with a shot rising, Newstead does brilliantly the goalkeeper throwing her hands up, getting a touch to push the ball up and onto the crossbar as she falls back. Lawford make a change with Claire Gauntlett coming off for Jade Heath. End to end action Georgia Fraser spreading play to the right for Ives bringing the ball inside, Bamber is back defending for Lawford, the ball up field quickly with Canny after it, Strange defending fr Bowers & Pitsea.

  The ball played forwards, Jackson after it, an error from the Bowers & Pitsea defence the clearance missed the ball in behind the attacker onto it right outside the box has Sharp free to the left of the D the ball rolled into her path her 1st time effort is dragged wide at the near post. 

  GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea double their lead with 33 minutes played the ball through the middle rapidly on for Georgia Fraser her run taking her in behind the defence closing in on the area shoots plenty of power behind the ball the strike over the keeper before she can set herself and on into the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Georgia Fraser double Bowers & Pitsea Ladies lead

   Bowers & Pitsea press the attack getting forwards Georgia Fraser linking with Ives on the right a clever back heel putting Ives on down the wing her cut back finding Fraser top of the area she cross in central headed clear. Holly Moore taking the ball on down the left comes inside Hayley Chapman getting back at her sliding in to win the ball. Sharp is quick with the ball at her feet brings it on for Lawford aims to release Canny on the right, Courtney Fraser making the tackle. 

Courtney Fraser tackling, Lawford’s Daisy Canny

  Late in the first half Bowers & Pitsea make their first change, Georgia Fraser the player off on comes Keegan Russell to join the attack. Soon after comes the first corner of the game to be played in from the left the ball finds Simmonds coming near side stooping into the header turns it goalwards her attempt straight at Newstead who gets her gloves firmly around the ball. 

Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead saving from an Abbie Simmonds header

Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 2-0 Lawford Ladies

  Two clinical finishes from Bowers & Pitsea see them leading 2-0 at half-time. Have played well getting forwards in number, Down and Georgia Fraser leading the line well with good support on the wings from Holly Moore and Ives. Their movement dragging Lawford out of position at times. Lawford not out of it by any means have had fewer chances but opportunities to score themselves, Canny striking the post early on.

 Lawford out first after the half-time break have made a change Erin Hornby is on, Chapman the player off, a bit of reorganising with Jackson going over to right back Ryan up top with Canny. Bowers & Pitsea also making a change with Emma Mackie on for Simmonds. Lawford playing the ball straight up to the attackers from kick-off an early touch 2nd half for Stephens in the Bowers & Pitsea goal as she gives the call.

  An early corner for Lawford the ball hooked behind by the Bowers & Pitsea defence players forwards the delivery in high taken well by Stephens at the near post. Lawford with a positive start to the 2nd half the ball crossed into the area from the left cushioned down by Heath with Ryan in close support on the penalty spot her shot charged down the ball rebounding out gathered by Bamber 25 yards out her strike back in saved by Stephens. 

  Lawford attack left Sharp on for Canny down the line her cross in low, Styles getting in front of Ryan to clear the ball only finding Bamber she puts it back in towards Heath, central her shot smashed against a defender. Lawford getting bodies forwards, Styles busy in the Bowers & Pitsea defence out to charge down Sharp as canny central plays the ball out to her on the left the cleared ball gathered by Canny inside the D, is quickly closed down still manages to snatch a shot goalwards a deflection taking it wide for a corner. 

Megan Bamber coming forwards for Lawford Ladies

  A change for Bowers & Pitsea with Georgia Fraser returning to the action Holly Moore coming off. Lawford continue to cause Bowers & Pitsea problems winning the ball higher up the pitch now Bamber able to drive on with the ball. A free-kick in the middle for Lawford, Adcock dealing with the delivery towards the top of the area for Bowers & Pitsea. Taylor Parrish comes on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore.

  Styles winning the ball at the back for Bowers & Pitsea play stretched as it’s played on to Dowman turns her marker getting away on the right wins a throw that brings a corner kick. A high ball into the six yard box attacked, played stopped with a Lawford player down. The game moving past the hour Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot, win a free-kick in a central position 30 yards from goal right of the D, Hornby on it fires the ball into the box runs wide evading an outstretched leg.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, Danielle Styles

  GOAL! Moments later Canny is brought down attacking in a similar position more central this time a couple of yards closer. Hornby is there again with Sharp. Sharp to take is a superb strike over the ball dipping late to find the top corner little Stephens can do as she throws herself across her goal Lawford’s excellent start to the 2nd half brings a goal 2-1.

Jodie Sharp makes it 2-1 with a brilliant free-kick for Lawford Ladies

  Ryan turning central plays the ball on both Canny and Sharp after it left inside the box almost get in each others way Canny getting clear for Sharp to shoot the effort rising over the crossbar. Newstead comes out well to the edge of her area to close down Dowman as the Bowers & Pitsea striker runs in clear behind her defence. Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot Ryan sending the ball on for Sharp getting away on the left her low driven cross cut out at the near post by Parrish a corner conceded. 

  The corner left side played in high Styles with the commanding header sends it behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd taken short before being played in the delivery met by Boyden at the near post a glancing header taking the ball wide across the face of goal. Lawford bring off Ryan send on Stacey Teager to join the attack. Pushing on are taking risks at the back Bowers & Pitsea ready to hit on the counter Dowman spinning in behind to get into the box as she lays the ball off for Georgia Fraser left drives a cross in across the face of goal Dowman going for it can’t make contact. 

Sophie Dowman always looking for an opening in attack for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  Mackie back to slide in win the ball break up a Lawford attack as they look to get forwards through the middle. Canny turning inside from a throw on the left she shoots Styles blocking the loose ball save quickly gathered by Stephens. Bowers & Pitsea win a series of corners, can’t get a telling shot away the 3rd delivery taken low on her line by Newstead. A double change for Lawford Jackson and Boyden off, on come Harriett Young and Ryan. 10 minutes left to play Bowers & Pitsea bring Holly Moore back on for Russell. 

  GOAL! Moore nearly returned to the action scoring her 2nd of the game to give Bowers & Pitsea a vital 3rd goal. The attack beginning on the right the ball squared onto Dowman positioned to of the area, her first time strike doesn’t quite come off still has possession sends it on to Moore clear to the left of the D, another clinical strike hit first time sailing into the top corner 3-1.

  GOAL! Game over! Not quite as Lawford push forwards numbers into the box as Canny takes the ball on down the right a cross driven high into the box met by Styles central the defenders header parrying the ball high into the the air a scramble for the ball inside the six yard box the ball smashed in inside the post to reduce the deficit once again. Ryan with the goal 3-2.

Tess Ryan gets it back to 3-2 for Lawford Ladies

  An ambitious effort from Moore 25 yards out, but why not when you’re on a hat-trick in a final her effort safely held by Newstead. A flare up in the middle of the park with Dowman and Young coming together quickly defused by referee Reece Morley, Young shown a yellow card. A frantic finish to the game Lawford trying for a 3rd whilst Bowers & Pitsea aim to put the game to bed, Moore playing it on for Dowman has Georgia Fraser ahead of her receiving the pass her cross into the box is won by Lawford’s Foley. Into injury time a free-kick for Lawford wide left for a push on Canny the ball played in central, Teager with it into her body back to goal, Styles on top of her preventing the striker from turning. The ball cleared the final whistle blows and Bowers & Pitsea win the Essex Women’s Trophy Final. 

Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 3-2 Lawford Ladies

  That was a very entertaining final, a great contest and showcase for the game played on the whole in good spirits. Bowers & Pitsea having the better of the first half taking the lead with two clinical strikes looked comfortable, Lawford had opportunities however reorganising for the 2nd half began it well getting onto the front foot early and getting the goal that play deserved as they restricted their opponents up the other end. Into the last 10 minutes Bowers & Pitsea getting what would prove to be a vital 3rd goal again from another superb strike. Lawford though came straight back to make it 3-2 and ensure no comfortable finish to the final pushed Bowers & Pitsea all the way. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders as is often the case. Holly Moore with two special goals. Georgia Fraser too with a well taken finish dong well in attack for Bowers & Pitsea. Daisy Canny a threat up front for Lawford all game. In the end goes to a player who has already won one of these already this season back then through it was for an attacking display this afternoon she was a commanding figure in the heart of the Bowers & Pitsea defence, getting in vital blocks, closing down well and reading threats Danielle Styles.

FAWSL star, Kate Longhurst present to present the players with their medals and the trophy itself.

Winning captain Charlotte Stephens with Kate Longhurst

Congratulations to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s Trophy.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, 2018/19 Essex Women’s Trophy Winners

An enjoyable trip down to Essex for this afternoon’s final, an entertaining game Lawford pushing Bowers & Pitsea all the way. Essex FA doing a great job making the day a special occasion a fantastic programme too. My thanks as always to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today, the match reports don’t work without them.

Match Report – St Ives Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

Sunday 19th August

  The new season is here at last and the 2018/19 campaign promises to be an exciting and intriguing one. Can’t wait to get started after having a long and much needed rest over the close season. The action begins with a game from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Division One a clash between two newly promoted sides taking the step up from their respective county leagues, St Ives Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies.

  A new look to ERWFL Division One this season as it reverts back to a single division, 13 teams contesting for a place in the Premier Division, including 4 new sides. Throws up alot of interesting games over the season, and is an opportunity for players to test themselves at a higher level.

  St Ives Town Ladies join the ERWFL fresh from winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season and are joined by runners-up Newmarket Town Ladies. A young side St Ives Town Ladies benefit from a strong pool of footballing talent in the area and along with the first team a development side was formed last season competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South.  

  After losing their opening game last season St Ives Town never looked back, going on to win all but one of their remaining games (that game drawn) to clinch the Premiership title just their 3rd season. Georgia Stancombe top scoring last season with 26 goals from 25 appearances. Manager Darren Marjoram has retained last season’s squad making a handful of new additions, striker Lauren Gibson local to the area played for Cambridge United WFC’s first team in the FAWNL (formerly the FAWPL) last season whilst Caitlin Jarman comes in from Histon’s U17s side. Both start on the bench today. Defender Emily Stephenson previously with Wisbech Town Ladies and Fran Worrall returning to the game after 5 years will also provide competition for places.

Lawford Ladies join the ERWFL from the Essex Women’s Premier Division along with last season’s champion’s Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Finishing 3rd last campaign had a potent attack with Daisy Canny and Jasmine Cox scoring 50 goals between them. Tyler Christou joining midway through last season added a further goal threat. Have retained the services of most of their squad too as they make the step up to regional football, Jessica Collinson is making her come back season after taking a few years break whilst Marta Filip is new to the game. 

An earlier start to the season than both teams have previously been used to, the county leagues usually beginning in the 2nd weekend of September. Westwood Road the new home for the St Ives Town Ladies this season sharing the ground with the mens team. A wide pitch has recovered well from the rigours of last season and the heatwave that we enjoyed earlier in the summer. Hot drinks available aswell as a bar. Still benefiting from the hot weather although overcast this afternoon, becoming muggy later on before the sun finally broke through.

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Kira Markwell, Stephanie Ransome, Sasha Smith, Ellie Brown, Mollie Flack, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Anna Hicks, Tierney Coulson, Katie Stancombe, Amy Seymour-Shove (C) & Georgia Stancombe. Subs- Caitlin Jarman, Megan Stow & Lauren Gibson.

Lawford Ladies starting XI – Jamie Newsome, Hayley Chapman, Sheena Foley, Tyler Christou, Ella Boyden, Keeley Brickwood, Jessica Collinson, Jade Heath, Daisy Canny (C), Jasmine Cox & Erin Hornby. Subs – Gemma Issacs, Claire Gauntlett & Marta Filip.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The season begins! Lawford to take the kick-off wearing green coloured shirts with white sleeves, green shorts and socks. St Ives lined up opposite in their home colours black and white vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. The visitors play the ball out to the left St Ives right back Stephanie Ransome winning the ball.

 GOAL! Inside the opening minute the 1st goal is scored St Ives break, captain Amy Seymour-Shove running clear into acres of space on the left the diagonal ball finding her the winger takes the ball on into the area as players from both sides rush back into the area, Seymour-Shove plays the ball a deflection of a defender sees it deflected out of the area straight to Tierney Coulson 20 yards out connects with the ball her dipping strike flashing past goalkeeper Jamie Newstead into the back of the net 1-0.

An early setback for Lawford get on from the restart the ball out to Jasmine Cox on the left head down she takes on the St Ives defence before whipping a cross into the area, Mollie Flack clearing the ball for St Ives. Lawford come on again down the right side this time Daisy Canny sending a ball in towards the top of the area, Ellie Brown winning the ball for St Ives. Canny showing good pace and close ball control drives on down the right tackled by Sasha Smith the ball out for a throw before she can cross.

Lawford Ladies captain, Daisy Canny

  St Ives are moving the ball quickly Georgia Stancombe leading the line always poised to break in behind, Amy Seymour-Shove finding space on the left as midfielder Anna Hicks brings the ball on with purpose. Keeley Brickwood getting back to tackle Amy Seymour-Shove as she attempts to turn inside into the area for a shot. On the counter attack the ball is played high up to Erin Hornby in attack for Lawford the ball coming to Cox making a far post run her low cross into the six yard box intercepted by Flack.

Lawford’s, Jade Heath and St Ives Town, Anna Hicks challenge for the ball

  Hannah Seymour-Shove picking the ball up deep for St Ives finds her sister Amy on the left her short pass in turn through the middle has Georgia Stancombe clear on goal momentarily, Brickwood showing great recovery skills once again gets back to tackle the forward on the edge of the box. 

 GOAL! 15 minutes in and St Ives go on to double their lead, Lawford losing their shape a little as Anna Hicks comes on through the middle with the ball has Amy Seymour-Shove free ahead of her on the left rolls the ball on for her the winger taking on to the top corner of the area time to set her sights sends a curling effort in towards goal across the face in drop inside the top corner and make it 2-0. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Amy Seymour-Shove

Hicks tries her luck from outside the area as the ball is played into her from a throw in the right, opening up her body for the strike her low effort is straight at Newstead the keeper gathering. St Ives build an attack on the right Katie Stancombe, with Ransome the ball on for Georgia Stancombe drifting across to support drills a shot in from the angle the ball behind at the near post. St Ives are dominating as Lawford struggle to get an attack going Canny running into traffic on the right. 

  GOAL! Isn’t long before St Ives go 3 up, Georgia Stancombe this time finding room in behind on the left cuts inside into the box evading a challenge getting central strikes the ball from 8 yards out, Newstead do low sharply initially makes a great stop the ball however rebounds straight back to Stancombe and composed the striker lifts the ball over the stranded keeper to score 3-0.

St Ives Town Ladies, Georgia Stancombe

St Ives are on top in the game pressing forwards at will Katie Stancombe on the right with the run forwards her cross squared across the top of the area finds Amy Seymour-Shove position left of the D, sends her shot narrowly wide of the far post. Canny is looking the most likely to get anything going for Lawford up front the ball rolled into her by Jessica Collinson she twists and turns heading towards the St Ives box right of goal finds room for a shot but drags her effort wide off target. 

  Coulson with a menacing run forwards past two players before trying to set up Amy Seymour-Shove on the left the ball runs out of play. Jade Heath stepping in to challenge Georgia Stancombe breaks up an attack outside the box. St Ives come on down the right Katie Stancombe bursting forwards cuts the pass back for Georgia  arriving inside the D her low shot is straight at the keeper. 

Sheena Foley with the ball into Heath rolled forwards into Hornby getting an early cross into the box, Cox is making a far post run, Brown cuts the ball out before it can find her. Foley comes back to tackle Hicks as she makes an attacking run through midfield for St Ives. A triple change for the home side, Amy and Hannah Seymour-Shove along with Coulson coming off to be replaced by, Caitlin Jarman, Megan Stow and Lauren Gibson.

 GOAL! An inspired change by manager Darren Marjoram (maybe?) well the substitutions make an immediate impact, Hicks on the ball carries it over halfway her pass picking out Jarman breaking away on the right side she fires a cross in towards the near post where Gibson has timed her run perfectly to meet the ball and fire it over the keeper at close range 4-0.

Lauren Gibson on target moments after making her competitive debut for St Ives Town Ladies

Lawford have struggled to get to grips with the St Ives attackers and the home side are on the attack once again Georgia Stancombe receiving the ball into her body has Hicks making an overlapping run to her left 30 yards out, Tyler Christou, stays with the midfielder making a good challenge inside the box as Brickwood gets back to help her out and clear the ball. 

  Late into the 1st half and Canny is adjudged to have been brought down as she attacks on the right the free kick 25 yards out Hornby to play the ball into the area aiming far post St Ives put the clearance straight into Collinson positioned at the top of the D, coming at her quickly her reactive strike is placed wide of goal. 

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies 4-0 Lawford Ladies

  A dominant first half display from St Ives as they begin life in the ERWFL, taking a 1st minute lead have been in full control of the half throughout creating numerous chances and scoring a further 3 goals. Space has been easy to come by Lawford struggling to get to grips have lost their shape on several occasions, need to sharpen up for the 2nd half or risk being over-ridden, a far from ideal start to their season, still 45 minutes to try and put it right.

Lawford make a change at the start of the 2nd half Claire Gauntlett on for Hayley Chapman, goes into central midfield along with Hornby who drops into a deeper role 4 at the back. It’s St Ives to get the 2nd half underway. Canny and Cox operating closer together up top Gauntlett adding strength to the midfield for Lawford attempts to roll Canny in turning inside the Lawford captain is tackled by Brown. The visitors getting at St Ives in midfield early in the 2nd half breaking up play Cox coming back to challenge Hicks for the ball. 

Jasmine Cox and Anna Hicks contest in midfield

Canny wriggling free as she attacks down the left sends a cross into the six yard box, goalkeeper Kira Markwell with little to in the 1st half takes the ball comfortably. Hicks coming on with the ball for St Ives has Jarman in space on her right sends an early cross into the area, Newstead doing well to gather the ball at her near post under challenge from Gibson. Moments later Gibson almost finds the back of the net as she is fed the ball inside the box left of goal squeezing it past the advancing keeper, her defence is back though able to reach the ball and bring it safely away. 

GOAL! Lawford pull a goal back early in the 2nd half, breaking from a St Ives set-piece outside their area the ball is played long up to Cox up top, bouncing a tricky one for the St Ives central defence, Markwell comes rushing out to pressure Cox knows she can’t handle the ball her challenge sees the ball deflect away to her right inside the D, Cox is after it and twisting and turning holding the St Ives defenders at bay swings her foot through the ball to send it over the back peddling Markwell into the net beyond 4-1.

Jasmine Cox, pulls a goal back for Lawford Ladies

Katie Stancombe steals in to win the ball on the left as Lawford attempt to play it out from the back, Christou with a burst of pace getting back at her to make the challenge concedes a corner. Lawford defend have improved 2nd half look more solid. Foley sends the ball on for Heath breaking forwards however Markwell can get to the ball first. A double switch for St Ives Coulson and Hannah Seymour-Shove return to the action in place of Ransome and Georgia Stancombe, this sees Hicks drop into the back line. 

Stow wins the ball in the middle brings it forwards looking to get Jarman away, Boyden closes her down to win the ball back for Lawford at left back. Boyden needed again as she makes a vita interception showing good control on the ball as it. Both sides make a change, Marta Filip enters the pitch for Lawford replacing Hornby, Amy Seymour-Shove is back on in place of Gibson. The game a little stretched end to end as Lawford look to see if they can pull another back, possession swinging back and forth Katie Stancombe having come over to the left slices a first time shot wide from the edge of the box.

St Ives Town Ladies, Megan Stow looks to get past Lawford’s, Ella Boyden

Cox is fouled as she attacks centrally 25 yards out, takes the free-kick herself lines up a shot a curling effort on target but at a comfortable height never troubling Markwell who sees it early. At the other end Newstead produces a fine save to deny Hannah Seymour-Shove a goal as she sends in a low shot from a Katie Stancombe cross squared in across the top of the box, Newstead diving low to her right to push the ball behind.

  GOAL! Both sides are wanting to attack and with the ball lost on halfway Lawford are on the back foot at St Ives break forwards in number, Katie Stancombe with the driving run on the right down the line cuts her cross back towards the top of the area, Hicks his there goes for it, but so to is Hannah Seymour-Shove closing each other down, Seymour-Shove right of the D snatches at her strike sending the ball angling wide across the face of the Lawford goal, is retrieved by Amy Seymour-Shove before it can go out and as Newstead goes to close her down at the far post the St Ives captain lays the ball inside for Coulson running in for the pass to drive the ball into the back of the net for her 2nd of the match 5-1.

  GOAL! 5 quickly becomes 6 and it’s Coulson again as she completes her hat-trick, play stretched as Katie Stancombe breaks away clear on the right side sends a vicious cross in low across the six yard box, where Coulson his bursting through centrally to slide in and meet the ball turn it into the goal 6-1.

An opening day hat-trick for St Ives Town Lades, Tierney Coulson

A blot of Coulson’s day follows soon after as she somewhat clumsily brings down Canny on halfway earning her the first yellow card of the match. Katie Stancombe comes off for St Ives late on Jarman heading back on. Boyden getting a good challenge in to stop Jarman getting in behind as Stow plays her in. 

Lawford Ladies, Ella Boyden

  Georgia Stancombe looking to break in behind the Lawford defence is played through by Stow in the middle heading for the box she is brought down by Brickwood the free-kick awarded and a decision to be made by the referee. Far from a goal scoring opportunity with the keeper back on her line a yellow card is shown to the defender. Stancombe over the free-kick driven low into the box blocked the deflection comes straight to Coulson her snap shot fired in low on target is saved superbly by Newstead throwing herself to the right.

 Newstead with another top draw save to deny Stancombe again a few minutes later as Coulson slips the ball through to her inside the area, clear of the Lawford defence Newstead gets down to stop her shot finding the back of the net once again.  

Full time St Ives Town Ladies 6-1 Lawford Ladies

  A fantastic start to the season by St Ives Town Ladies as the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership champions start life in the ERWFL with a convincing 6-1 victory. Scoring in the opening minute went on to dominate the first half leading 4-0 at the break, Lawford improved 2nd half got a goal back but St Ives had energy to burn and Coulson went on to score her hat-trick at make it 6-1. A confidence boosting start to carry into their FA Cup match against Corby Town Ladies next Sunday. A tough opening defeat for Lawford who can’t have too many complaints were pulled apart 1st half much better 2nd half and know they will have to sharpen up if they want to avoid similar results, certainly have the squad to do so.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  So for the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season. The rules are still the same, there can only be one, which makes it very hard to decide sometimes but then I don’t have to make my choice until the match report is complete (although I do sometimes) a few contenders for St Ives today but overall I have picked Katie Stancombe excellent playing out wide be it left or right involved in setting up chances and of course goals.

St Ives Town Ladies, Katie Stancombe

  It feels good to be back the season finally started I really do enjoy writing these match reports and that’s mostly down to the sport I have the privilege of witnessing. I did want to try and write less words but I’ve failed miserably in that regards haven’t I. My thanks to both teams for there help with the team details always appreciated and to St Ives for their generous hospitality, best of luck to both sides for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

A new league covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday with a top of the table clash from the Essex Women’s Premier Division with runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies looking for a 15 straight win in the league at home to 2nd placed Lawford Ladies. 

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

 
   A first for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog today taking in a new league for the 1st time and a long overdue trip to watch a game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. The venue The Harlow Arena to watch runaway league leaders take on 2nd placed Lawford Ladies.

 Harlow Town Ladies haven’t dropped a single league point since they joined the Essex Women’s County league last season having previously been the Bury Rangers Girls U17s, winning the Division One title last season going on to complete a Quadruple, with wins in the Essex Trophy, Tiptree & District Charity Cup and Essex Women’s League Cup finals. Are going as equally strong in the Premier Division following promotion with a 100% winning record to date 14 games won are 14 points clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies. In addition to the 1st team Harlow Town Ladies started a new Reserves and an U18s side this season having a good number signed to the club to play for all 3 sides is a little stretched at the moment with a dozen out injured.

  Lawford Ladies near Manningtree in North Essex are into their 5th season, started this season with a new manager Marc Lawson coming in. Had a very strong start to the season winning their opening 8 games eventually over took by Harlow as postponements as well a cup games halting their momentum in the league. Have played Harlow once already this season knocking the holders out of the league cup with a 3-0 home win. Have games in hand as they look to be the 1st side in the Premier Division to beat Harlow in the league this season.

  The venue for today’s game The Harlow Arena, have visited the stadium before for an FAWSL match a coupe of seasons back between Millwall Lionesses and Watford Ladies. Is a new built stadium featuring a top notch 3G pitch that sees plenty of action throughout the week. Has multi teams playing on it regularly including Harlow Town Ladies 3 sides. A good sized artificial surface a large seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms bar and clubhouse with hot and cold refreshments available. A dry day if overcast overhead, a chilly breeze that was swirling about the stadium, no where near as strong as Doris was in the week.

  Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Kerry Davies, Maisie Ryan, Megan Sende, Fran Gamble, Christie Seakins, Taylor O’Leary, Francesca Tye (C), Nicole Learner, Danielle Hills, Tayla Handscombe & Dempsey Favell.
  subs – Tia Dye, Lucy Sende, Karys Paton & Rhiann Patmore.

  Lawford Ladies starting XI – Louise Murphy, Jo Ribet, Sofia Serghiou, Hayley Chapman (C), Ella Boyden, Lauren Richardson, Sasha McDonald, Sheena Foley, Jade Heath, Jasmine Cox & Daisy Canny.
  subs – Michelle Foley, Codie Laurie, Susie Jackson & Gemma Issacs.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway, kitted out in red and white hooped shirts with red sleeves, blue shirts and red socks with Lawford lined up opposite wearing sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The early play is squeezed both sides pressing the ball in the middle Harlow captain, Francesca Tye getting the ball out to Tayla Handscomb breaking into space on the right wing her early diagonal ball intended for striker Dempsey Favell making a run into the box is intercepted and cleared by Lawford’s captain Hayley Chapman playing at centre back.
  Working the ball out to the left wing Harlow get the ball into Danielle Hill, Megan Sende gets forwards to support exchanging passes Lawford prevent the cross coming in, the clearance comes to Lauren Richardson the ball played on Lawford counter attack the ball fired into Jasmine Cox moving left to right across the D has the ball at her feet slips as she shoots the ball running harmlessly wide across the Harlow goal.
 

Dempsey Favell opens the opening
goal for Harlow Town Ladies

GOAL! 4 minutes played and the opening goal is scored, Harlow launching a counter attack from a Lawford free-kick played up towards the area from the halfway line headed back out of the area by the Harlow defence the ball falls to midfielder Taylor O’Leary, she bursts forwards with the ball at her feet, up top Favell is already on the move O’Leary picking her out with a defence splitting pass, through on goal, Lawford goalkeeper Louise Murphy comes rushing out of her area to close Favell down, she releases the ball early lobbing it over the goalkeeper, into the area beyond and bounces into the goal beyond 1-0. 

 
 Two committed sides out there some crunching 50/50 balls no one afforded much time on the ball, Lawford win a free-kick on halfway the ball played up to the top of the area is won by Sasha McDonald who heads the ball on into the box, Cox goes after it as goalkeeper Kerry Davies rushing out to claim slides in the pair collide the ball deflected behind goal, play is brought back for a free-kick for Harlow the flag up against Cox. 
 

 Tye bringing the ball on through the middle of the park for Harlow has Maisie Ryan breaking forwards from right back plays the ball out to her playing the cross into the box early the ball goes long, bouncing in the area is picked up by Hill on the left side inside the box, shoots putting the ball wide of goal. Ryan with another chance to bring the ball on down the right side plays it into Favell outside the area, seeing the ball into her body holds it up well before passing it into the area for Tye making a forwards run on her right closing in on goal looks to square the ball across the six yard box, Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou sliding in produces a great tackle the ball going out for a corner on the right. Glanced off a Lawford head inside the six yard box the ball goes out for a throw-in on the opposite side of the pitch. 

Lawford Ladies, Sofia Serghiou

  GOAL! Harlow extend their lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Lawford force Harlow to play the ball backwards from the throw, getting it across the pitch to the right the long ball forwards once again picks out Favell outside the box holding it up right of goal puts the ball into the centre isn’t cleared played through into the feet of Nicole Learner left of the D shoots from outside the box the ball past the diving Murphy and into the bottom corner of the net 2-0.

 
Nicole Learner makes it 2-0 for Harlow Town Ladies
   A good start to the match for Harlow and they very nearly extend the lead moments later the ball as Fran Gamble wins the ball at the back play it into O’Leary sees Handscombe on the move on the right wing passes the ball out to her carrying it down the line fires a cross in towards Favell making a near post run controls well inside the six yard box adjusting her feet and getting a shot away as she falls, Murphy has the post covered getting across makes the blocking save the ball rebounding out across goal drops to Learner attempts to volley it goalwards flies back across the six yard box grounded Favell uses her studs to knock it back across goal Chapman boots it clear for Lawford.
 
   Frustrated at conceding 2 early goals Lawford double their efforts to close Harlow down on the ball, McDonald winning the tackle in the middle plays it on for Daisy Canny, the striker charging through the middle towards the Harlow box lifts the ball beyond the defence into the area with Jade Heath looking to get in behind from the right, Davies is off her line quickly out to claim the ball before her goal is threatened. Up the other end a timely challenge from Chapman getting back to tackle Hill breaking down the left channel as the ball is played long to her for Harlow. 
 
Daisy Canny attacking for Lawford Ladies

  Ryan breaking forwards on the right for Harlow sweeps her cross deep into the Lawford area across the six yard box, Lawford substitute, Suzie Jackson tracking back has to play the ball behind for the corner with Hill behind her on the left. Both sides are using their substitutes, Foley only just taken off comes back on for Ella Boyden who has taken a knock. Tye bringing the ball forwards for Harlow sends it on up into the area for Favell moving to the left, gets her shot away as Murphy comes sliding in to close her down the ball runs wide of goal a corner is signalled played in from the left Murphy coming through bodies near post punches the ball away falls to Hills inside the box but closed down quickly sends her shot wide of goal. Hills comes off for Harlow, Tia Dye coming on with 30 minutes played.

Tayla Handscombe looking to get away from
Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou
  Progressive build up play from Harlow looking to play short passes to get the ball forwards then out to Handscombe and Dye on the wings, in defence Chapman and Serghiou dealing with the final ball for Lawford into the box. Hills receives the ball from the left pushing on looks to shoot from 20 yards out, Serghiou rushing to meet her charges the shot down the ball deflects straight to O’Leary 25 yards out her snap shot loops up over the bar. Lucy Sende comes on for Handscombe for the last 5 minutes of the 1st half. 
   Lawford get the ball forwards late in the 1st half Richardson playing it into Canny outside the Harlow area left of the D with Cox in close support between the pair they keep hold of the ball rolled into Cox she shifts it into a central position room to curl in a shot is rising but straight at Davies central in her goal plucks the ball down cleanly into her gloves. A rapid counter from Harlow the ball played on by O’Leary sees Favell in behind left of goal driving on into the box doesn’t get much power behind her shot the ball rolling along the ground is easily saved by Murphy coming to close down the angle.
  Lawford attack the ball with Richardson is played out to Canny moving into space on the left side, Gamble goes with her, Canny getting to the ball 1st, cleverly shifts it inside to evade the defenders challenge heading towards the box lifts the ball up into the top of the area Heath coming in with Seakens challenging her, Davies rushing from goal they all meet 12 yards out the ball squirming free rolling towards the six yard box Canny is after in but before she can get there Gamble throws herself at the ball clearing it for a corner kick.
Lawford Ladies, Daisy Canny
  GOAL! From the resulting corner Lawford pull a goal back is a good delivery inswinging towards the near post area inside a yard from goal Canny is there the ball chest height Harlow struggle to clear it ends up diverted into the back of their net Canny pumping her arms in celebration, looked more an own goal and after match this was confirmed 2-1.
  Into injury time in the 1st half Harlow have a free-kick 30 yards out wide left of the Lawford area, Tye over the ball fires in low skipping off the surface in towards O’Leary positioned on the six yard line looks to turn and shoot as the ball crosses her path, Chapman closing her down defends well getting the ball away for a corner on the left. Defending the corner Lawford fail the get the ball away a hand ball spotted by the referee outside the box same side but closer in this time Richardson yellow carded as her protests go in vain. Tye takes on the shot this time the ball sails over the bar. 
Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 2-1 Lawford Ladies

  Having had the better of the 1st half Harlow Town Ladies take a narrow 2-1 lead into the changing rooms at half-time having taken a early 2 goal lead and frustrating their opponents Lawford capitalised late on to pull a goal back get themselves firmly back into the match. A competitve contest intriguing to watch clear to see why both sides are where they are in the league.

  Has gotten alot colder as the chilly breeze picks up strength swirling about the stadium as the two sides come out for the 2nd half Lawford getting things back underway. Karys Patmore is on in place of Ryan at right back for Harlow at the start of the 2nd half as they gain possession and look to make progress on the left side the ball into Lucy Sende wins a throw in. From the throw in Sende receives the ball rolls it across the face of the box where the 1st time shot is smashed in swerving wide of goal. Tye gets hold of the ball in the middle and drives forwards for Harlow, tries to thread the pass in behind the Lawford defence with Sende coming in from the left, Murphy sliding in saves at her feet, the ball is loose for a moment the goalkeeper adjusting quickly on the ground to pull it into her body with Favell closing it down.

Winning the ball in the middle captain Francesca Tye looks to attack for Harlow Town Ladies

  The strength of the wind is apparent as it causes a free-kick played in from the right for Harlow to stand up in the wind headed away by McDonald they look to counter attack, Richardson on the ball but fouls Sende as she attempts to get past her giving away a free-kick 40 yards out, Tye over the ball aims to drop it into the area in front of the six yard box, Murphy confidently catches with runners from Harlow closing in. The home side make full use of their substitutes regularly changing personal Learner and Rhian Patmore given a rest with Megan Sende and Hills returning to the action. A few challenges resulting in free-kicks the referee adding to Lawford’s frustration with both Canny and Richardson yellow carded. 

Lawford Ladies, Jade Heath

  Harlow are giving away free-kicks too Lawford awarded on on the top of the circle inside their opponents half the ball is played long to Heath out on the right her touch taking the ball inside towards the top of the box, Seakens can get to it 1st clear for Harlow. Serghiou is yellow carded for Lawford as she fouls Favell just outside the area as she receives the ball from O’Leary breaking through the middle. Is O’Leary with Tye over the ball right of the D, O’Leary’s as Tye runs at the ball hits it hard, Lawford’s Ribet charging towards the shot blocks taking a painful blow on the side of her head for her troubles the ball cleared for a throw in on the right. The ball helped on into O’Leary outside the box right corner drills a shot is flashing wide across the face of goal. 

   Lawford’s McDonald closes Hills down inside the area as the ball is swung into the area from the right, getting the ball away. Harlow are quick to press the ball in the middle of the park regain possession send it long out to Favell on the right looking to turn inside get into the area McDonald is their again getting her body across the attacker and playing the ball into Murphy the keeper kicking the ball clear. A strong start to the 2nd half by Harlow, Lawford unable to get any meaningful possession in the final 3rd.

  GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half and Harlow’s pressure counts as they extend their lead. Have a corner on the right after Tye’s run into the box sees her tackled strongly by Serghiou. Gamble up from the back heads the ball on at the near post into the middle of the six yard box, drops to Favell her shot is blocked at close range the rebound coming back to O’Leary 12 yards out, Serghiou lunges in to try and win the ball, takes the player aswell the referee pointing to the penalty spot. O’Leary to pick herself up and take the spot kick, sends the keeper the wrong way as she coolly rolls the ball into the opposite corner of the net 3-1.

Taylor O’Leary makes it 3-1 to Harlow from the penalty spot

  Lawford get the ball forwards from the restart Richardson passing the ball up towards the area with Heath coming in from the right, Davies coming out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at the attackers feet. Cox is fouled inside the centre circle giving Lawford a fee-kick, Ribet playing the ball up towards the top of the area Richardson up to head the ball on towards goal is cleared coming back to Richardson who meets the ball on the volley her strike blocked inside the six yard box. Tye turns and runs at the Lawford back line sliding Favell in behind, clear to attack the box beyond Murphy comes racing out of her area to win the ball send it back up the pitch. Favell comes off for Harlow as Handscombe returns to the action. 

  GOAL! Harlow extend their lead with less than 15 minutes of the 2nd half left to play. Players getting forwards as the ball is carried through the middle by O’Leary, her pass picking out Tye outside the box left side of the D, seeing the ball into her body moves inside finding half a yard to shoot sends the ball arrowing in towards goal rising flies over the keeper and into the back of the net 4-1.

Harlow Town Ladies captain, Francesca Tye 

  A quiet spell follows as both sides compete to stop the other having the ball attacks broken down before they can begin. Hills sees a goal chalked off for offside as she beats the keeper to the ball inside the box having gotten onto the end of a through ball from Learner. Cox then charges down a shot from Learner herself as she looks to take aim from 30 yards out. Codie Laurie comes on late in the game going up top with Chapman coming off at the back as they look to alter formation go 3 at the back. Harlow attack the ball rolled into O’Leary 25 yards out in front of the Lawford box has Dye to her right plays the ball into her feet carries it into the area doesn’t shoot 1st time, Serghiou threatens to take the ball from her getting it around the defender shoots the ball coming in centrally easily held by Murphy.

Lawford Ladies, Lauren Richardson with Harlow’s Lucy Sende

  Defending a Lawford free-kick Harlow attempt to break from their area, Richardson closing the ball down on the left side wins it back rolls in inside to Canny back to goal holding the ball up looks to roll it into Heath, Seakens can reach it 1st and plays it out from the back for Harlow. Into injury time Dye gets hold of the ball taking it on through the middle, Serghiou across times her tackle well.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Lawford Ladies

  Harlow Town Ladies extend their winning run in the league to 15 games, are in a commanding position at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division and well on their way to claiming their 2nd league title in as many seasons. A frustrating result for Lawford conceding early were on the back foot for much of the match despite some good build up play were never allowed much time on the ball in the final 3rd. Pulling it back to 2-1 late in the 1st half gave them an opportunity, Harlow coming out the stronger in the 2nd half played some good short passing football looking to use the whole pitch rotating their substitutes to full effect. A great advert for women’s football in Essex.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A few names in contention for the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today. I’ve picked midfielder Taylor O’Leary, proactive all game winning the ball for Harlow and looking to turn and attack herself or bring others into play, won and scored the penalty. A good range of passing too.

Harlow Town Ladies, Taylor O’Leary

  Enjoyed my 1st taste of Premier Division football in Essex, my thanks to Harlow for their hospitality and both sides for their help with the teams today.