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Match Report – Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Stevenage Ladies Reserves

Sunday 25th November

ERWFL Division One

A return to league action on Women’s Football East with a game from the top of ERWFL Division One, travelling down to Essex to watch 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies take on league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves.

  Bowers & Pitsea Ladies a new name in the league this season but an established side having joined forces with a new club make the name change after previously been known as Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

  A 5 point league for Stevenage Ladies Reserves who won the ERWFL Division One South title last season. Ineligible to take promotion to the Premier Division as a reserves side ERWFL Division One the highest level they can reach, have started this season strongly too in what is a single Division One league this season starting with 13 sides but now sadly down to 12 following the withdrawal of Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. 4 straight league wins to start the season for Stevenage before suffering a 5-0 away defeat to newly promoted Newmarket Town Ladies. That their only loss in the league to date however a 100% record since sees them in a strong position at the top of the table. Daniela Martucci leading the goal scoring charts with 11 goals.

 Is an ever changing picture below Stevenage in the race to catch them at the top of the table a cluster of sides separated by just 4 points with from Bowers & Pitsea in 2nd down to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in 7th and 8th & 9th placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies & Histon Ladies both have games in hand get a run going and both could yet threaten. 3 of the newly promoted sides starting well all amongst those tussling in the top half, St Ives Town Ladies, Newmarket Town Ladies and Essex side Lawford Ladies. Hutton Ladies with Vicky Kinsman leading the attack have started well too.

 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies unbeaten in their last 3 league games collecting 7 points get out in front of that pack this their 3rd game in a week having played last Sunday and then again on Thursday night taking on Charlton Athletic in the quarter finals of the Bostik Cup going down to a 7-1 defeat. Back to the league this time Sunday meeting Stevenage for the 2nd time this season a narrow 3-2 loss in the reverse fixture. Proving to be a league were anyone can beat anyone on their day.

 The Len Salmon Stadium the venue for today’s game a few changes since the last time I visited a brand new pitch, a state of the art 4G playing surface, Bowers & Pitsea always having a wide pitch the new pitch installed in September a good size railing all around two small seated and covered stands, a new dugouts, the first part of a planned redevelopment of the stadium that will see a new clubhouse, function room and changing facilities built. Very much a community club the ladies side now a part of that community. Final weekend in November a chilly and overcast afternoon, don’t need the hat on yet but it won’t be long. 

Stevenage warming up on the new playing surface at The Len Salmon Stadium

Bowers & Pitsea starting XI – Charlotte Stephens (C), Courtney Fraser, Natalie Strange, Jennifer Lyttle, Taylor Parrish, Taylor Adcock, Sabrina Campbell, Georgia Fraser, Danielle Styles, Emma Mackie & Sophie Dowman. Subs – Alesi Harris, Rebecca Cochoran, Eloise Ives, Ebony Moore & Louise Daly.

Stevenage Ladies Reserves starting XI – Keri Green, Hayley Wood-Thompson, Amelia Keown, Amy Notschild (C), Shona Chitate, Steffany Cowell, Sherrie Evans, Rebecca Brooker, Gemma Biggadike, Hannah Marshall & Emily Schofield. Subs – Naomi Sleator, Sydney Webb, Louise Sollis & Daniela Martucci.

   (roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Bowers & Pitsea to get the first half under way wearing red shirts with white and red vertical stripes down the front, red shorts and red and white hooped socks. Stevenage in an all blue kit with white trim. The home side moving the ball out to the right looking for Danielle Styles, Amelia Keown stepping in the make the challenge for Stevenage at left back. Stevenage counter attack Steffany Cowell getting hold of the ball in central midfield driving forwards out to Hannah Marshall on her right she lifts the ball over the top with Emily Schofield running through toward the box shoots early her effort lacking any pace as it runs safely through to Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeper and captain, Charlotte Stephens.

Bowers & Pitsea’s, Sabrina Campbell challenging Stevenage’s Rebecca Brooker

   Georgia Fraser attacking left side for Bowers & Pitsea looks to make ground is stopped by right back Hayley Wood-Thompson, Fraser getting back to the ball wins her side the first corner of the game, swung in near side lands on the roof of the net. Bowers & Pitsea are pushing players forwards defending a high line the diagonal ball left to right almost has Styles in behind on the right, Keown getting a vital header to clear the ball. 

  GOAL! A positive start from Bowers & Pitsea it’s the visitors who hit them on the counter and open the scoring inside the first 5 minutes attacking down the right side the cross squared in low central is picked up by Schofield taking the ball on across the top of the area Stephens comes to close her down keeps herself big Schofield sending the shot through her legs to give Stevenage the lead 0-1.

   Bowers & Pitsea push forwards from the restart Sabrina Campbell taking the ball on into the left channel on for Sophie Dowman ahead of her she slides the pass out to Georgia Fraser on the left wing she sends the cross in towards the near post, Amy Notschild captaining Stevenage getting back in defence to get her head on the ball clears. A few early refereeing decisions upsetting the Stevenage players. Schofield fed the ball through the middle has Rebecca Brooker looking to get away on the right, wins a throw in, the ball played up the line before a high cross is fired into the area, Jennifer Lyttle winning the header for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s, Jennifer Lyttle

  GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea get themselves back on level terms attacking Campbell spots Styles run wide right sends the pass out to her, Keown gets back on her to put the ball out for a throw, deep, Bowers & Pitsea work the ball well from the throw-in the ball put back central comes straight back to Styles breaking into the box takes the ball on close to goal and from the angle six yards out smashes the shot into the back of the net 1-1.

   The home side enjoying a good spell break forwards in numbers yet again, Styles played in on the right again, rides a challenge keeping her feet before sending a looping cross in central, Keri Green in goal for Stevenage taking the ball low, catches well on the edge of her six yard box with Fraser charging in. Campbell pressuring the ball on the left side wins a corner, taken short the cross taken from a high angle into the area Taylor Parrish drifting in central headers the ball over the crossbar. Georgia Fraser with a 30 yard attempt power on the shot Green diving low at her near post probably had it covered as it runs wide.

Bowers & Pitsea’s, Taylor Adcock

   Taylor Adcock beating Sherrie Evans to the ball in the middle lays the pass on to Campbell, a power run with the ball out to Georgia Fraser left side her cross into the area claimed well by Green getting in front of Dowman’s run. Styles carrying a threat on the right for Bowers & Pitsea is in behind, Shona Chitate coming across to slide in and clear the ball for a throw. A corner on the left side as the home side attack the ball lifted in towards the top of the area central Dowman with the header, on target but too many bodies to get pass as the Stevenage defence head behind for another corner. Off the 2nd corner Styles putting a dangerous ball in across the face of the Stevenage goal a difficult one for the defence to deal with getting it out for a 3rd corner left side. Parrish up to head this one in the box for Bowers & Pitsea top of the area knocked back down towards the near post no-one can connect to turn it in.

Stevenage’s, Gemma Biggadike holding off Bowers & Pitsea defender, Natalie Strange

   GOAL! Again Stevenage come up with a goal against the run of play to retake the lead getting up the other end a corner won on the right side players come forwards as Schofield prepares to take, Gemma Biggadike up high at the near side headers the ball down into the Bowers & Pitsea defender jumping with her comes back out to Cowell top of the area back out right to the corner taker Schofield from the angle she strikes the ball hard sending it arrowing in past the keeper 1-2.

   Bowers & Pitsea make a change Eloise Ives joining the action, Emma Mackie off, Styles taking up a more central position. 

 GOAL! Stevenage get straight up the other end the ball on for Schofield to chase down in the area bouncing wide right of goal a race between her and Stephens, the goalkeeper appeared to get her gloves to the ball, as the pair come together Schofield up ended, the referee points to the spot a penalty awarded. Schofield herself to take a chance for a first half hat-trick makes no mistake sending the keeper the wrong way 1-3. Almost half an hour played.

A 1st half hat-trick for Stevenage’s Emily Schofield

   Notschild getting back to help Chitate as Dowman plays a dinked pass over the top to get Styles in behind top of the area. A throw deep on the left the ball played on into the area Dowman doing well to get her head on it turns it goalwards but straight into Green. Natalie Strange with a long pas on for Styles moving out to the right channel, Chitate getting back on her making a good challenge to regain possession the ball into midfield helped on with Schofield running on Brooker to her left Courtney Fraser tackling the ball going for a throw. 

   Campbell strong on the ball coming on with it for Bowers & Pitsea 30 yards out hits a tremendous strike in towards goal, Green no chance the ball smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Stevenage clear. Lyttle winning the ball at the back played forwards high for Styles back to goal 20 yards out controls well before flicking it on for Ives going past her on the overlap, Keown doing well getting out to her to make the tackle for Stevenage a corner conceded. The ball into the area over the heads of Strange and Fraser, Wood-Thompson clearing it behind for another corner at the far post

  GOAL! A great ball delivered into the area finds Georgia Fraser sneaking in unmarked central meeting the ball low turning it goalwards the shot racing in through a crowded six yard box to nestle in the back of the net 2-3.

    GOAL! Two quickfire goals see Bowers & Pitsea right back on level terms as they score from another corner ball, on the left side the delivery long towards the far post defender Parrish rising unchecked far side 12 yards out sends a looping header up and in towards goal to drop under the crossbar and in 3-3.

Taylor Parrish heading home Bowers & Pitsea’s equalising goal

   Five minutes left to play in a fast paced and exciting first half the sides all square at 3-3 Styles making a nuisance of herself through the middle the ball on into the area Chitate doing well to defend close on her Styles grounded still managing to get a shot away little power on it as Green picks it up. Campbell central slides the ball on for Dowman in behind shots from the top of the area wide, but wouldn’t have counted anyway the flag up against her.

   GOAL! A complete turn around from Bowers & Pitsea, 3-1 down the take the lead late in the first half. Chitate caught in possession at the back 25 yards out Styles closing in to steal the ball bursts in behind into the area closing in on the goalkeeper, Notschild can’t get to her as Styles fires the shot past Green to claim her 2nd of the match 4-3.

  Chances have dried up for Stevenage late in the first half a rare opportunity to put the ball forwards a free-kick left side 30 yards out, Biggadike over it the delivery flighted in towards the far post Stephens can see it drop wide of her goal. Schofield pushing on with the ball central has Biggadike out to her left. top of the area is forced wide good defensive work from Ives. Biggadike getting a cross into the area, Lyttle dealing with in for Bowers & Pitsea.

Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 4-3 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  7 goals scored in the first half an exciting 45 minutes has flown by, Bowers & Pitsea with a positive start falling behind to an early goal. Continued in that same vain getting forwards well levelling the scores but again against the run of play Stevenage did well get score two quick goals to go 3-1 up. Bowers & Pitsea kept creating chances and capitalised from 2 corners to level the scores. Styles firing them into the lead late in the half. 4-3 I’d be surprised if it stayed that way 2nd half.

Hannah Marshall looking to get forwards for Stevenage

   Stevenage to kick-off the 2nd half, have made a change Daniela Martucci carrying a slight injury on in attack, Biggadike off. Ebony Moore on in midfield replacing Adcock for the hosts. Bowers & Pitsea winning the ball central early on lift it forwards for Styles to try and bring down top of the area, Notschild getting in close on her to take the ball. Bowers & Pitsea build from the back Georgia Fraser bringing it on left sees Styles peeling out wide ahead of her sends her the ball the cross driven in towards the near post Dowman heading it down towards the top of the box with Campbell racing in meeting it first time her strike is deflected wide and behind for the corner. 

     GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea extend their lead early in the 2nd half attacking through the middle the ball fed into the run of Dowman bearing down on the box is about to be closed down, has Styles to her right slips her the ball and she sends the shot in across the keeper to score her hat-trick 5-3.

Danielle Styles completes her hat-trick for Bowers & Pitsea

   Stevenage are doing their best to push the Bowers & Pitsea defence back, Evans putting the ball on for Martucci, Parrish intercepting. Bowers & Pitsea counter break Fraser left puts the ball into the area Styles opening up her body sends the shot crashing into the side netting. Schofield operating more to the left of attack 2nd half gets the ball forwards squares it into Martucci top of the area, she looks to turn in behind but is quickly closed down. Wood-Thompson looks to get forwards for Stevenage into the area, Courtney Fraser defending for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Stevenage’s, Daniela Martucci

  Martucci central holding the ball up well outside the box lays it off for Evans to run onto a strike 20 yards out driven in low Stephens well placed in goal gathers safely for Bowers & Pitsea. The home side continue to pressure the ball well inside their opponents half, giving Stevenage little room to create as they try and up the tempo. Green sending the ball long from a kick out of the gloves finds Marshall running into space on the right crosses early the ball dropping central for Martucci, the striker not quite able to get the ball under control. 

Eloise Ives after the ball for Bowers & Pitsea

   Changes for both sides Dowman off for Bowers & Pitsea, Louise Daly on, Brooker off for Stevenage, on in her place Naomi Sleator. Moore bringing the ball down 25 yards out for Bowers & Pitsea a spin and a shot the ball held by Green in goal. 

  GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea open up a 3 goal lead Styles with her 4th of the match creating a goal out of nothing the ball out on the right a throw-in played back to her is a long way out but catches it well the ball clearing the keeper and striking the back of the net 6-3.

   Wood-Thompson coming off for Stevenage, Sydney Webb coming on. Martucci with the ball at her feet outside the area lets loose a shot the ball just a foot over the bar. Georgia Fraser on the ball for Bowers & Pitsea cutting inside from the left closing in on the box lifts a shot up over the bar. Styles comes off for Bowers & Pitsea, Rebecca Cochoran going on up front. Courtney Fraser with a long ball from the left into the area pressure on the keeper, Chitate around on the cover to clear.

   Bowers & Pitsea playing well getting forwards at will Courtney Fraser again on the left the ball in central Cochoran with support from Moore central tries to pick out Daly’s run on the right, Sleator intercepting for Stevenage. Chitate tackling Cochoran central as Georgia Fraser pushes forwards with the ball. Green taking the ball well at the feet of Daly as the cross field pass comes into the area from wide left. Campbell comes off for Bowers & Pitsea, Styles back into the action. A quiet spell the substitutions slowing things down. 

Stevenage’s, Shona Chitate

   Into the last 10 minutes Chitate with a crucial foot in to stop the ball as Ives heading the ball on almost sends Georgia Fraser in on goal. Biggadike back on for Stevenage left side lifts the ball into the area, Stephens gets her gloves firmly upon it with Martucci running in. 

  GOAL! Stevenage have picked up the pace in the last minute and the game has gotten a little stretched Schofield back into a more central role along side Martucci receiving the ball timing her run off the last defender perfectly bursts into the area and sends a low strike under the diving keeper to pull a goal back with 8 minutes left to play 6-4.

  GOAL! Straight away Stevenage score another to set up a nervous finish to the match, and it’s Schofield again with her 5th of the match almost a carbon copy of the last goal, the ball breaking favourably into her path after a committed tussle in midfield the striker in behind with the ball at her feet baring down on the keeper one on one she sends the ball wide of Stephens to bring the deficit back to a single goal 6-5.

Bowers & Pitsea’s Natalie Strange

   Their 3 goal lead in danger of being wiped out Bowers & Pitsea are suddenly on the back foot, steel themselves for the closing minutes, Strange with a vital interception at the back. Georgia Fraser breaks in behind for the hosts into the area Green coming out to meet her making a brave save at her feet the ball popping loose Fraser off balance with 2nd bite at it sends the shot over. A late fee-kick for Stevenage left side up into the box Martucci controls before sending a low shot in towards goal Stephens claiming in low at her near post.

 

Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 6-5 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  It’s rare you’ll read about a 0-0 on here and today was certainly no exception treated to 11 goals this afternoon, a good contest at the top of ERWFL Division One. Bowers & Pitsea winning 6-5 the 3 points closing the gap on Stevenage at the top to just 2 points. A good performance from the host side and overall they were the better side for larger periods of the game, Stevenage not at their best at all know that but still found the back of the net for 5 goals, Emily Schofield now top scorer by my reckoning. The visitors with the early lead, Bowers & Pitsea responding were the better side only to fall 3-1 behind kept going and got the goals back ending u with a first half lead. An early goal 2nd half went 6-3 up. Two late goals from Stevenage setting up a nervy finish, never really got going will be disappointed. A thrill for the neutral but I was probably the only one there.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Got to give Emily Schofield a mention it’ll be unfortunate if you ever score 5 goals in a match and still end up on the losing side. All of them well taken. For Bowers & Pitsea I thought Sabrina Campbell had an excellent game in the middle of the park as did Jennifer Lyttle at the back. Overall all though with her 4 goals and the constant threat in attack and the vocal encouragement she offered her team mates today’s award goes to Danielle Styles.

   Always a warm welcome from Bowers & Pitsea, enjoyed my trip down this afternoon and entertaining game, 11 goals plenty to write but it’s the game that provides the contents I just put it into words. Pleasure seeing both sides again and thanks for the help with the teams always appreciated. 

ERWFL Finals Day – Hutton Ladies v Stevenage Ladies Reserves

ERWFL Plate Final

Sunday 13th May

 Another double bill of Cup Finals this Sunday from The County Ground in Letchworth from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) this time around. The League Cup to come but first up it’s an 11:00am kick-off between Hutton Ladies & Stevenage Ladies Reserves for the League Plate Final.

   Hutton Ladies the current holders of the ERWFL Plate after a 1-0 win over Colney Heath Ladies last season. Were the underdogs then and once again they will be seen as the underdogs as they take on fellow league Stevenage Ladies Reserves who having won the ERWFL Division One South title are looking to complete the double.

  Hutton Ladies with one more league game to play finishing fourth in the ERWFL Division One South table. Have already claimed silverware this season lifting the Essex Women’s Trophy with a 2-1 win against Silver End United Ladies. A tough challenge against Stevenage Ladies Reserves in this season’s Plate Final but can use last season’s result as inspiration and the knowledge they were the side to eventually bring an end to the league champion’s 100% winning start to the season.

  Stevenage Ladies Reserves have led the ERWFL Division One South table from start to finish winning their opening 10 games not conceding a single goal in that period either. Both records broken in February by today’s opponents Hutton Ladies in a 3-2 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves have conceded just 9 goals in total from 18 league games this season whilst scoring 81 up the other end. Clinching the league title with 4 games to spare are looking to end the season with the double.

Road to the Final

  The nature of the Plate, the sides knocked out of the League Cup in the opening rounds entering the competition. The Division One sides in from the North & South contesting the early Rounds of the League Cup.

  Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Plate. Into the quarter finals Hutton Ladies were away to Division One North side, Cambridge United WFC Reserves, the game all square at 90 minutes the sides drawing 2-2 it was Hutton who went on to score the winning goal in extra-time. Stevenage Ladies Reserves drawn at home to fellow Division One South side, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies progressed to the last 4 of the Plate with a 3-0 victory.

  Into the semi-finals and contrasting games for both sides Hutton Ladies at home were taken all the way to extra-time once again after a high scoring game with Division One North side, Histon Ladies 3-3 after the 90 minutes was up into the extra period Hutton getting themselves in front went on to add a 2nd goal to reach their 2nd successive final with a 5-3 win. Stevenage Ladies Reserves were at home in the semi-finals against fellow league side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies and booked their place in the Plate Final with another 3-0 result.

  The County Ground, Letchworth home of the Hertfordshire FA the venue once again for this season’s ERWFL Finals. The main seated stand housing the clubhouse and bar the changing rooms beyond. A nice wide pitch looking in very good condition with plenty of grass cover. The weather good, warm with the sun trying to get out cloud cover for the morning kick-off for the 1st of today’s matches.

Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Nicola Walker, Rianne Dimmock, Hannah Page (C), Kelly Roberts, Amy Crumpler, Kaitlin Sugg, Keeley Walker, Lucy Critchell, Kate Lowen & Laura Allen. Subs – Patrizia Leo & Lucy Blurton.

Stevenage Ladies Reserves starting XI – Emily Goodacre, Holly Darling, Amy Notschild, Laura Henning, Stacey McConville, Becky Day, Sherrie Evans (C), Hayley Wood-Thompson, Hannah Marshall, Daniela Martucci & Emily Schofield. Subs – Naomi Sleator, Rebecca Brooker, Mary Lisle, Stef Cowell & Izzy McAree. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Stevenage to get the ERWFL Plate Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing an all blue kit with red and white piping around the collar and sleeves of the shirts. Hutton kitted out in their all red kit with white across the shoulders of the shirts. Becky Day playing the all out into the right channel for Daniela Martucci to chase the Hutton defence can see it safely out for an early goalkick. Stevenage make progress down the left, Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover coming out of her area to kick the ball clear see’s striker Laura Allen after it to attack the Stevenage area, Amy Notschild across the get in front of her and clear the ball for a throw. 

Emily Schofield with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  The ball pressed early on cut out at the back. Allen and Kate Lowen try to link up through the centre to attack the Stevenage defence the attempted one two cut out Notschild. The first corner of the game awarded to Stevenage, Hayley Wood-Thompson to play the ball into the box the ball half cleared Emily Schofield on the right hooks it back in towards go, Martucci closing in on it near post, Glover has it safe on her gloves first. Holly Darling slides in to deny Hutton’s Critchell as Crumpler plays the through ball to her on the left.

  Stevenage counter attack breaking forwards Hutton back tracking conceding a corner on the left side Schofield to play it in Kelly Roberts with the stooping header near post defends for Hutton. The ball coming onto Wood-Thompson just outside the box left of the D, goes to strike the ball her effort charged down. Lowen and Allen are looking to combine once again through the middle for Hutton as Kaitlin Sugg plays the ball forwards, Notschild getting in between them to break up the attack. 

Hutton’s Kelly Roberts, tackles Stevenage’s Becky Day as she s about to shoot

  Lucy Critchell finding room to run into on the left lifts a cross into the area, Stacey McConville clearing for Stevenage a rapid counter is launched the ball played on to Wood-Thompson coming away with the ball left side looks to put Hannah Marshall in behind on the opposite flank send the diagonal ball crossfield, Nicola Walker defending well for Hutton Ladies at left back. Working hard early on to break up Stevenage’s flow, Hutton are gaining encouragement from their play. 

Hutton Ladies, Lucy Critchell

  Bringing the ball on over half way Sugg send the ball forwards releasing Lowen through on goal as she bursts in behind the Stevenage defence, right of goal into the box, takes an extra touch, enough to allow goalkeeper Emily Goodacre coming towards her to slide in and save at the strikers feet. Stevenage press players forwards Schofield moving out to the right to gather the ball, Hutton captain Hannah Page gets across to challenge the striker 20 yards from goal. Roberts intercepting inside the box as Wood-Thompson looks to run in on goal from the left as a high ball from the right is fired into the Hutton area.

  Stevenage haven’t settled Hutton are lively looking to close down everywhere on the pitch. A free-kick awarded to Hutton 35 yards out left of the centre circle players go forwards as Lowen plays the ball in long towards the far post, Sugg getting up highest sends her header into the back of the net Hutton celebrate thinking they have taken the lead, but no the flag is raised for offside it doesn’t stand. Another free-kick to Hutton same position only right of the centre circle this time Amy Crumpler to deliver this time long to the far post again headed down back across the six yard box, Rianne Dimmock there for Hutton but no opportunity to shoot as she is quickly closed down and Stevenage scramble the ball away.

  Martucci spinning off her marker in the middle releases the ball into Schofield’s run on the left, sends a cross long the top of the six yard box, no one gambling for Stevenage. Hutton get it clear. A chance created for Stevenage on their left as Wood-Thompson goes to charge down a defensive clearance the ball spinning into the D, Page looking to control under pressure from Schofield the ball prodded into the area with Marshall coming onto it her shot straight at Glover the keeper making the save. 

Stevenage’s Hayley Wood-Thompson looking for options as she brings the ball forwards

  Hutton are battling for everything frustrating Stevenage in the process. Riding their luck at times Dimmock slicing her clearance the ball spinning favourably into the box for Glover to grab. Goodacre with an excellent save to deny Hutton from another set-piece similar to the earlier one on the left a little closer this time Crumpler goes for goal the ball arrowing in high on target central Goodacre throwing herself at the ball punches it over the crossbar.

  All action the ball from one end to the other Dimmock sending a shot wide from a corner at the near post for Hutton. Laura Henning charging a Hutton ball down in half way brings in on fires a pass into Martucci back to goal inside the D she spins off her marker sending the ball on into the box Wood-Thompson arriving can’t quite bring it down on her chest to set up a shot the ball running wide. Hutton make a change, Walker coming off Patrizia Leo coming on the move seeing Critchell dropping deeper. 

Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Daniela Martucci

  A free-kick wide right for Stevenage the ball played in towards the top of the box Martucci with a clever flick to send the ball on into the area, no one there however Glover can claim unchallenged. Keeley Walker snapping at the ball in midfield wins it from Day plays it on for Lowen right side she plays it on into the area near post Allen closing her down Goodacre stays composed claims the ball. Glover with a top class save at the other end to deny Schofield the ball played into the striker on with the ball she arrives at the top of the area Glover coming to close her down Schofield looks to prod the ball wide of her, almost succeeds Glover however manages somehow to get her foot in the way of the ball and deflect it away for a corner. 

 Stevenage bring the ball on possession on the right brings a corner kick the ball played into six yard box Sugg heading away for Hutton, out of the area Day with the looping header back in Martucci interested, Glover comes punching the ball away from the strikers head. Hutton get the ball forwards Walker on for Lowen a one tow with Allen the ball sent on for Lowen to chase right side McConville goes with her concedes the corner. 

  A late opportunity in the first half for Stevenage to take the lead, awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position left of centre Martucci with the right foot strike a superb effort the ball swerving as it flies in on target bring a magnificent save from Glover falling back as she throws her hand towards the ball the merest of touches diverting it onto the crossbar, rebounding back into play Hutton scramble away for the corner. Coming in from the right Glover is fouled as she comes for the ball right on the stroke of half-time.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 0-0 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  Goalless at the break one side with a goal disallowed the other striking the bar a really interesting contest and proof that the form book can go out the window in a cup final. Stevenage haven’t really settled yet into any rhythm, frustrated, Hutton have worked well right across their side to pressure the ball and break up attacks have created opportunities themselves as they have been encouraged by their performance. Defending well at the back Glover with a couple of crucial saves. Stevenage know they can play better and will no doubt look to come out strong in the 2nd half. Hutton if they can duplicate what they have achieved in the 2nd half will be hard to break down.

Hannah Page, defending for Hutton Ladies

  Hutton kicking off the 2nd half start confidently Critchell bringing the ball on from the left looks to take the ball infield is tackled by Notschild. Stevenage build on the right the ball fed on for Schofield turns inside towards the goal into the area her shot in towards the near post not troubling Glover. Walker with good work in the midfield for Hutton gets her pass on for Lowen right side holds it up before turning her marker and sending in a cross long towards the far post just out of Allen’s reach. 

Keeley Walker for Hutton Ladies getting to the ball before Stevenage’s Becky Day

  Stevenage get froward on the left Schofield moving into the channel has the ball squares it inside to Evans 30 yards out central time to line up a strike pulls the effort wide of the left post. Schofield is covering alot for ground up top getting into good crossing positions for Stevenage, the final ball more often than not collected by Glover. Critchell is yellow carded as she tugs back Wood-Thompson trying to get inside her from the right. The free-kick from a wide position sent over the bar. Stevenage make a change Darling coming off to be replaced by Izzy McAree.

Stevenage Ladies Reserves captain, Sherrie Evans

  Martucci with an opportunity to play the ball in towards goal from a set-piece left of goal 30 yards out as Hutton with away a free-kick, her strike wide at the near post. Day come on with the ball for Stevenage on for Marshall has Schofield on her left giving her the ball she is tackled by Dimmock as she charges at the Hutton defence. Hutton’s Walker intercepts a cross from the left from Marshall getting back as Evans breaks forwards through the middle. 

 GOAL! Seemingly out of nothing the deadlock is broken and it’s Hutton who take the lead the ball brought on though the middle Hutton have players forwards lined up across the top of the Stevenage penalty area the ball is played into Lowen inside the D she flicks the ball on sending it looping up high into the area, dropping towards goal Goodacre back on her line tries to palm it out from under her crossbar her glove caught in the net can’t get to it as it drops past her into the goal, Hutton take the lead, everyone converges on Lowen in celebration so I had to check afterwards to be sure it was her 1-0.

  A valuable lead for Hutton. Stevenage look for a quick reply Day bringing the ball on the pass out to Martucci, Page coming across defending well for Hutton. Henning winning the ball as she moves forwards for Stevenage is allowed to travel with the ball has a pop at goal from distance her strike straight at Glover positioned central in the Hutton goal. Stevenage attack Evans getting the ball out to Schofield moving clear on the right a run at the Hutton defence cuts back inside getting into the box sends a fierce cross along the six yard box Martucci arriving far post meeting it sends the ball over the Hutton crossbar. 

Stevenage Ladies Reserves, Laura Henning

  Marshall attacks on the left for Stevenage runs into too many bodies as Hutton close the gap in front of her. The ball cleared is picked up by Henning and fired back in Martucci with the shot puts the ball straight at Glover the keeper with a comfortable save. Hutton make a change Crumpler coming off on comes Lucy Blurton. Hutton continue to work hard to break up the play, Page and Roberts both getting to the ball first as Stevenage play it forwards for Martucci and Marshall to chase down. 

Hannah Marshall with the ball for Stevenage Ladies Reserves

 Lowen receiving the ball as she breaks into the right channel looks to knock it past McAree, the Stevenage defender putting in the challenge to win the ball. Marshall left side fires a cross infield into Martucci position top corner of the Hutton box, shows great control to bring the ball down and swivel into the shot like so many others before it however the ball is straight into Glover positioned at her near post taking it low into her body. Hutton build an attack Walker on for Lowen central inside her is Allen playing the ball into her Walker has run on into the box Allen picking her out no shot on lays the ball back to Leo 25 yards out curls her shot up over the crossbar. 

Leo with another shot at goal moments later as Hutton attack with Lowen on the right squared across the top of the area with Walker central helped onto Leo she fires her strike up over the bar from the edge of the box. Leo with a 3rd effort in quick succession as Allen and Lowen work the ball forwards Lowen attempting to get on the end of Allen pass into the box favours Leo left of goal blasts the ball straight at Goodacre a great blocking save at close range the ball lose Stevenage get it clear of their box. Allen with a dipping volley from outside the box as the ball is put into her from a throw on the left her effort caught easily by Goodacre. 

Hutton Ladies, Patrizia Leo

  Glover with another fine save to deny Day as she hits the ball back in towards goal after Schofield’s initial shot from the right. Roberts with the near post header defends for Hutton from a Stevenage corner from the left. Stevenage with the change Day the player coming off Stef Cowell coming on with around 10 minutes left on the clock. McConville bringing the ball on for Stevenage inside to Martucci, she plays it on for Schofield her touch taking her inside a run at the box is brought down inside the D by Dimmock. A free-kick awarded Schofield has picked up an injury. Stevenage make the change before the free-kick Schofield helped off on comes Mary Lisle. 

  The set-piece just a foot outside the box. Martucci on it, a good effort gets the ball up over the wall but also narrowly over the crossbar too. Wood-Thompson is off for Stevenage with 5 minutes left to play Naomi Sleator coming on. Lowen finding room with the ball on the right cuts inside along the top of the box moving across the D gets a shot away back across goal wide of the post. 

Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock

  Into the closing minutes of the match Hutton get a corner left side played in Evans puts it out near post for a 2nd corner this time Hutton try to hold it up in the corner. Stevenage regain possession fire the ball up to Martucci tries to turn inside run at the Hutton defence Page close on her winning the ball back. McConville with a late strike from distance is straight down Glover’s throat the keeper dropping down onto the ball. That’s it the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate a 1-0 win to win the ERWFL Plate Final for the 2nd successive season.

Full time Hutton Ladies 1-0 Stevenage Ladies Reserves

  An impressive performance from Hutton Ladies don’t think they even believed they could do it at the start of the match but just like last season they overcame the odds to win the trophy. Encouraged early on pressing the ball well and defending strongly gained the belief that they could get something going forwards themselves. The winning goal coming in the 2nd half, Hutton looked comfortable afterwards with the narrow advantage. Stevenage created chances and got players forwards just didn’t get the luck of the green today. Glover in the way of anything they threw at her. Miss out on the double and will no doubt feel disappointed but must remember they have dominated the league this season and are the League Champions.

 Three trophys in two season’s for Hutton Ladies not a bad return at all.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  There were several contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match in today’s final and I knew my notes were going to have to help me out on this one. It was a strong all round team performance from Hutton in today’s Plate Final. The defence superb, Dimmock, Page and Crumpler. Walker impressed in midfield. The last line of any defence is the goalkeeper however and for Hutton Krissie Glover was behind everything Stevenage put into her box made a number of crucial saves too during the game and she is the ERWFL Plate Final’s Player of the Match. 

Hutton Ladies 2017/18 ERWFL Plate Winners

  Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning today’s ERWFL Plate Final.

  If that was the starter I can’t wait for the main course. Was a really entertaining final Hutton proving lightening can strike twice. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups. A little time to relax before the ERWFL League Cup Final kicks off.