Tag Archives: Wroxham Women

Match Report – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Wroxham FC Women

Sunday 28th Jan

ERWFL League Cup

Back at it after a much needed weeks break, heading over to Mulberry Park this afternoon to watch Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies take on fellow Norfolk side Wroxham FC Women in the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup.

 A strong line up reaching the last 8 of this season’s competition with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies one of two Division One sides to progress this far, with the other being Division One South leaders Watford Ladies Development away to the Premier Division’s runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies. defending cup holders Luton Town Ladies are away to St Albans City Women next week. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking on Stevenage FC Women in the remaining quarter final tie. A different format to the League Cup this season with all the clubs entering at the 1st Round stage, previously the Premier Division sides entered in the 3rd Round.

 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies moving up into regional football after back to back titles in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Building a strong women’s section in their relative short history bringing in a high level of talent from Norfolk. Have made a good start to life in tier 6, whilst suffering the frustration of a lack of league fixtures for various reasons, that had seen them a low as 2nd bottom purely through lack of game time, but with just 13 points separating top to bottom a 3-2 at home to Fakenham last weekend push Mulbarton up to 5th and with plenty of game in hand on the sides above are more than capable of putting pressure on the top two whom they have yet to face in the league.

 Rebekah Lake amongst the best strikers playing in the county has been top of the scoring charts for Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies since their beginning and is out in front again this season finding the back of the net for 14 goals from 9 appearances. Sam Walker another leading goal scorer in the county joining Mulbarton from Long Stratton last season has 5 so far from 8 played. A bye for the club in the 1st Round of the League Cup drawn at home to Division one South side Billericay Town Women Development, Lake on target for a brace with Walker also scoring in a 3-0 victory. Away to another Division One South side in the 3rd Round taking on Lawford Ladies, goals from lake, Lucy Kean, Atlanta Griffith, Laura Hedtke and Charlotte Groves sealing a 5-2 win to send Mulbarton into the last 8.

 Wroxham FC Women currently 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division table, amongst a cluster of sides in the top 5 separated by just two points challenging for what looks like runners-up spot with runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies yet to drop a point so far this season. Adam Race taking on the managerial role this season having moved from Long Stratton, inheriting a strong squad with a great blend of youth and experience have added a number to their ranks with the most recent signings being talented young goalkeeper Bryony Williams and experienced defender Mary Croft both dual signed from Norwich City Women.

 Hannah Fuller (previously Waters) can easily go toe to toe as one of the best strikers in the county. Both are a nightmare to defend against finding great positions to run in behind and take on players. Leading the goal scoring charts for her club once again netting 20 goals so far from 15 matches . Lara Densley enjoying a great season for Wroxham on the scoresheet for 8 goals from 16 played. Luci Middleton and captain Becky Russell both with 7 goals. Like Mulbarton a bye for Wroxham in the opening round, an away trip to Essex to play newly promoted Southend United Ladies in the 2nd Round, Holly Connell striking twice with goals from Hannah Fuller, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley and Keela Olive securing a 6-1 win. A home tie in the 3rd Round against fellow Norfolk side and Division One North leader, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. Fuller on target to bag herself a hat-trick with Ella Gambell and Russell getting a goal apiece in a 5-1 victory.

 Mulberry Park the venue for todays game the weather much improved after the stormy conditions at the beginning of the week. Warm and bright, with no wind. The pitch seeing a lot of action, the ground still damp heavy in places. A small seated stand opposite the dugouts with the tee hut open serving hot drinks and snacks. The sun low behind the stands moved from my opposite flank to view the game so I had it at my back to help with the camera. 

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Jody Todd, Lauren Bumstead, Rachel Jermy, Megan Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Leah Brown, Lanta Griffith, Sam Walker, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Melissa Belsey, Laura Hedtke, Poppy Loveland & Olivia Smith.

Wroxham FC Women

 Wroxham FC Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson, Albany Hodgson, Becky Russell (C), Jennifer Drummie, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Luci Middleton & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Ella Gambell, Rachel Cossey, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Sumer Copland.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Mulbarton to get this afternoon’s quarter final underway kicking off the first half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Wroxham lined up opposite in their away colours aquamarine coloured shirts with black across the top of the chest and shoulders, black shorts and socks. The ball played back into the middle, Wroxham break forwards quickly to pressure the ball out on the left the ball won pushed back towards captain Becky Russell outside the box clips a high ball in towards goal dropping down cannons off the bar back into play the Mulbarton defence launching it clear.

Wroxham captain, Becky Russell

  Wroxham setting the tempo early doors getting at the Mulbarton back line keeping the hosts pinned in the final 3rd Chelsea Clarke combining with Lara Densley on the left flank on for Luci Middleton wide her cross blocked behind for a corner kick. Curled into the area defended headed back out to the left the 2nd ball in deflected away for a throw in. Wroxham threatening left side Russell with Densley forwards for Middleton to attack running into the box, tackled the ball prodded out of play for another corner.

Lara Densley crossing the ball for Wroxham

   Ellie Hunter looking to take the ball on through the middle spark Mulbarton into life played on for captain Rebekah Lake up to, Albany Hodgson stepping in to intercept the pass. Wroxham come right Jennifer Drummie off a throw in forwards for Lauren Bullard to travel the the by-line before squaring a ball into the six yard box, cut out and cleared by Megan Belsey at the back for Mulbarton. All Wroxham winning the ball inside the Mulbarton half push players into the final third the ball rolled into Densley top of the D, struck on the half volley, dipping in front of goalkeeper Jody Todd does well to get her palms behind it make the blocking save. 

Mulbarton yet to get a toe hold in the Wroxham half yet a meaningful attack registered, Drummie in to win the ball in the middle, Clarke left and Leah Newcombe on the right getting forwards to push the hosts back. The ball sent long on the left in behind for Fuller to attack  from the left channel a strong run, Lauren Bumstead and Belsey going with her as she powers her way into the box the ball won well and cleared. 

Lauren Bumstead clears the ball for Mulbarton

 Wroxham dictating the play able to push their defence up play the ball across the back, Lake up top alone with a lot to do if her teammates can get the ball into her. Newcombe taking the ball on up the right forwards for Bullard looking to turn in behind, Hunter tracking back well getting to the ball to take it clear for a throw. 

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter

  Hodgson plays the pass along the ground into Densley left side, lines up a strike from range her shot flashing wide of the far post. The visitors forwards on the left Clarke on for Densley into Fuller left of the D, gets the ball across the top of the area for Middleton central ready to shoot, Hunter gets back on her in the nick of time to win the ball the opportunity gone. Sam Walker goes into the book for an off the ball offence with Drummie. 

Wroxham attacker, Luci Middleton

  Walker with a ell timed challenge a few moment later to halt Densley’s progress as she looks to make ground on the left. Belsey out to block Densley as she lines up another strike 25 yards out top of the D. Walker find Leah Brown on the right as the winger looks to get away down the line pushing inside, Densley closing her down stops the cross, Brown winning Mulbarton their first corner of the game. Taken short, Mulbarton dally on the ball too long as Wroxham rush out to close it down threaten to counter, Belsey standing her ground on halfway to make sure that doesn’t happen. 

  Midway through the first half, Wroxham dictating play creating chances around the box, Mulbarton yet to have in theirs working hard at the back, getting the ball out and keeping it their proving difficult. Middleton seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out to the left of the D, turns well to hit the shot her effort flashing over the crossbar. Drummie out to Newcombe right on for Bullard, Rachel Jermy stretching to win the ball clears for Mulbarton. 

Mulbarton defender, Rachel Jermy.

  Russell sending the pass on for Bullard wide right squares it across the top of the area, Drummie running onto the ball her shot charged down by Belsey. Newcombe taking the ball in behind for Wroxham on the right, Sophie Jermy running back to challenge on the by-line clearing for the hosts falls straight to Russell positioned right of the area 25 yards out, looks to thread a diagonal ball on for Middleton spinning off the defence into the area central, Bumstead getting back at her to lung in take the ball away from her. 

  Sophie Jermy pushed back needing to slow down Newcombe help Rachel Jermy out with Bullard looking to run in behind her. Walker on for Hunter through the middle, Lake pulling out wide on the left into space brings the ball down whipping a cross into the area, Molly Ryan cutting in of the right channel looking to attack it the ball though cleared by Hodgson. 

  Mulbarton finding a little momentum in the middle as Lanta Griffith, Hunter and Sophie Jermy combine getting forwards on the left, Jermy sending the ball on for Hunter bursting into the left channel the ball crossed in cleared back out to Griffith, lifted back into the box, Tigi Robson heading clear for Wroxham out to the right of the box, Ryan looking to latch onto it, Clarke in to block her shot. 

Sophie Jermy

  Clarke on from the left with Densley played into Fuller left of the area turns inside bursting into the six yard box putting it in across goal, Todd their first to snatch the ball down, vital with Middleton lurking ready to turn it home. Clarke getting up on the left receiving the lay off from Fuller left of the D, shots her shot blocked defecting harmlessly through to the keeper. Wroxham upping the ante pressing forwards as a pack the ball played into Fuller up top left side flicks the ball into the path of Middleton putting her clear right side to attack the goal, shoots, Todd down smartly gloving the ball away for a corner kick. 

Luci Middleton played in on goal

  The ball dropped into the box scrambled away by Hunter for Mulbarton. Sophie Jermy alert on the left taking a quick throw looking to set Griffiths away, Newcombe getting back at her to tackle see the ball out for a throw. Clarke putting Fuller through in behind to run into the box, and score won’t count however the flag early against her as Mulbarton’s defence hold a good line. Fuller hungry for a goal, so too Clarke as the ball comes back to her on the left, as soon as it arrives you can see she’s going to take the shot on hit on the angle a vicious ball in low dipping late on Todd does well to block with her legs as she falls forwards doesn’t get hold of it as Fuller rushes in on the follow up, strikes the ball looking to get it over the keeper, Todd getting enough of her body in the way to deflect it over the bar!

Hannah Fuller in to follow up Clarke’s strike seeing her shot deflect over of the keeper

  Bryony Williams has largely been a spectator in goal for Wroxham in the first half but need to remain alert pushing up from the back Mulbarton winning it back launch a pass long for Lake to try and chase down, Williams needing to come hurtling out of her area to clear the ball. Wroxham attack right Bullard sending it on for Newcombe on the overlap to the by-line back to Bullard turning into the area right lifts a cross into the mix, Hunter trapping the ball top of the six yard box, but not away Fuller taking a swing at it as it rolls forwards doesn’t get a clear hit scuffed as Megan Belsey gets the block in and taken away to the left for a corner kick.

Wroxham full back Leah Newcombe

Lauren Bullard preparing to cross

Megan Belsey into block Hannah Fuller’s attempted strike

  Mulbarton making a change bringing off Ryan with Poppy Loveland coming on. Russell seeing the ball onto her feet for Wroxham outside the D, puts her foot through the shot rising in on goal, Todd with the spectacular save gloving the ball up over the bar for the corner kick.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Jody Todd

  Swung into the area knocked down into the mix, cleared by Bumstead, the counter on as Sophie Jermy takes it on for Griffiths who bombs forwards into the left channel making for the box is clipped as she looks to drive into the area, goes down play brought back for the free-kick, Bullard goes into the referees book. Loveland on the set-piece gets it past the Wroxham wall in towards goal, Williams though right behind seeing the ball into her mid-riff as she drops forwards. 

Lanta Griffith driving on for Mulbarton

 Into first half stoppage time Wroxham still prepared to push player forwards Drummie winning in in the middle on for Russell, playing the ball forwards as Rachel Jermy and Walker collide allowing a gap for Fuller to turn and run into looking to get onto it as it races towards the box, Todd sharp diving forwards onto the ball in the nick of time Fuller leaping up letting out a cry of frustration. 

a coming together at the back sees Hannah Fuller break after the ball

Jody Todd getting to the ball before Fuller can strike

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-0 Wroxham FC Women

  As one sided a goalless first half as you will ever see, Wroxham will be wondering how they are not in front have pushed hard for the opening goal, seeing one disallowed and the woodwork struck. Mulbarton goalkeeper Jody Todd called into action for a number of saves. The hosts have had to work hard at the back to keep Wroxham at bay right from the off a gutsy performance under pressure. Rebekah Lake up top on her own getting little to fed on. Wroxham pushing up will getting their full backs advanced to keep Mulbarton pushed back looking to move the ball about the park. Still with nothing in the goal scored column all to play for 2nd half.

  Changes for both sides at the break, Mulbarton staying out on the pitch making two changes bringing on Laura Hedtke and Melissa Belsey for Bumstead and Griffith. Ella Gambell coming on for Wroxham on the right replacing Bullard. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway, played into Russell looks to clip the ball out to the left for Densley, Brown can see it safely out of play for Mulbarton. 

  Gambell into the attack early on racing down the right into the corner winning a free-kick. Looped into the near post headed on across goal headed goal wards the ball claimed by Todd in goal. Russell gathering the ball into hr feet on the right tracking inside for Wroxham fires it into Densley running in central to curl a shot from 20 yards out wide of the right post.

Wroxham midfielder, Jennifer Drummie

  Wroxham looking to start of the 2nd half where they left off the first. Middleton drifting right seeing her cross cut out turned behind for a corner. The corner curled into the middle of the area by Densley headed back out to the right inside the box snatched hold of by Gambell strikes a shot on the angle saved by Todd knocked down into the ground and cleared by the defence. 

  Hedtke sending the ball on for Lake pulling out to the left for Mulbarton wide has limited options as she looks to cross the ball into the area, the ball intercepted by Hodgson. Drummie on through the middle, Middleton and Fuller running in ahead of her towards the area plays it on for Middleton central as Fuller peels away to the right of goal, Middleton lays the ball into her Megan Belsey getting across to lunge in to put in the block as she goes to pull the trigger the ball spinning away for a corner kick.

Rebekah Lake looking to cross the ball.

  The corner count rising Densley putting so useful balls ball in from that side, in central cleared back to Gambell right this time sends her shot behind. Mulbarton making another change bringing on Olivia Smith to replace Walker. Brown storming forwards with the ball on the left for Mulbarton, sending it inside to Lake 20 yards out, Clarke in to challenge her before she can look to spin in behind to shoot. 

Leah Brown coming forwards with the ball for Mulbarton

 Clarke running into space on the left found by Russell striking in a shot on the angle held by Todd. Mulbarton’s back line remain pinned back, Megan Belsey and Rachel Jermy both making a blocking tackle on Middleton and Fuller respectfully. Gambell adding to Wroxham’s threat going forwards with some driving runs on the right, sees a cross snuffed out by Rachel Jermy as he breaks for the by-line.

Ella Gambell attacking for Wroxham

  Clarke adding to the threat going forwards from the back on the left for Wroxham, bursting forwards plays a one two with Fuller as she continues her run past her into a central position to shoot from 20 yards out her effort fired straight at Todd who claims the ball. 

Chelsea Clarke getting forwards on the left for Wroxham

 Wroxham make their 2nd change bringing Rachel Cossey on to replace Middleton. Densley tracking in from the left appears to be bundled over, the visitors appealing for the fouls as the ball runs through to Gambell 25 yards out right side, Rachel Jermy rushing out to meet her win the challenge for Mulbarton. Wroxham win a corner on the right swung in near post Todd comes out into the mix to try and get hold of it doesn’t as the ball is turned behind for a 2nd corner.

  GOAL! The corner deliveries from the right have been dangerous and this one brings the opening goal the ball fired in with pace into the six yard box met by Robson making her 50th appearance for Wroxham gets her head under the ball powering it into the back of the net 0-1.

Wroxham celebrate scoring the opening goal

Tigi Robson scoring on her 50th appearance for the club

  The deadlock finally broken in the 65th minute. Play resumes Ryan and Griffith back on for Mulbarton the ball played up the left sent into the area, cleared. Robson down needing treatment. Wroxham suddenly down to 10 as Clarke finds herself sent to the sin bin the game had gotten a little testy. The visitors adjusting to the player disadvantage by making a change bringing of Densley, with Ellie Overton coming on the fill in at the back. 

Wroxham’s Albany Hodgson

   Gives Melissa Belsey less to worry about on her flank the full back getting forwards as Hedtke picks her out with the pass up the pitch lifts a cross into the box knocked clear by Hodgson. Mulbarton a goal down with a player advantage need to come out attack, have to remain wary of Wroxham’s attack still lively Gambell on the drive central closed down well by Megan Belsey. The ball swept out to Fuller pulling right side of the box lay the cross into the D with Drummie on the move Ryan going with her getting enough of a challenge in to slow her down force the ball left as Megan Belsey comes to clear the ball.

Melissa Belsey

  Wroxham competing well with one less player keeping the ball away from their exposed left flank. Russell on the left of the box heading the ball down into Fuller central turns to run out to the right, Smith stretching to stop her cross. Robson going down under a heavy challenge picking up a knock Wroxham on the attack Drummie clipped out to Fuller right her cross chipped into the box cleared by Megan Belsey.

  Griffith getting hold of the ball driving forwards through the middle for Mulbarton aiming to thread the ball through the Wroxham defence for Lake to hunt down, Williams though ready racing out to the top of her area to dive onto the ball.

Bryony Williams winning the race to claim the ball

  Mulbarton pressing on trying to find a break through to get them back on level terms Hedtke on for Lake to attack, Williams again going down to claim it spills the ball however no one is close enough to capitalise as the ball is made safe. Clarke’s time up is allowed back onto the pitch eager to resume, Overton pushed on ahead of her. Hunter and Gambell battling for the ball come together a bit of afters quickly dispelled, Hunter hurt in need of treatment can’t continue, Bumstead coming back on.

   Fuller with a drive on the right smashing the ball against the crossbar from the angle. Robson is down feeling the effects of her earlier knock, needs to come off with Newcombe returning to the game. The clock ticking down Wroxham continue to dominate the attack, yet while the score remains 1 nil Mulbarton only need one moment to turn the game on its head, looking unlikely though with Fuller driving on with the ball into the area, Melissa Belsey and Bumstead combining to defend see the ball out for a corner. 

 Gambell from the right cutting inside lays the ball in central, Loveland cutting it out for Mulbarton playing it forwards the left, Clarke latching hold of it coming straight back at them. The final whistle signalling the end of the game Wroxham clinch the win to send them through to the last 4 of this season’s ERWFL League Cup

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-1 Wroxham FC Women

  Tigi Robson’s 65th header proving to be the difference between the sides as Wroxham find a goal in the 2nd half to win the match. Doesn’t tell the whole story, Wroxham no doubt the dominant side going forwards right from the opening whistle creating chances getting players forwards to keep Mulbarton penned back limited their opportunities going forwards in the process. An intriguing yet tense contest. Mulbarton on the back foot never really found the spark to get ignited going forwards that left Lake isolated in attack, no doubt part of Wroxham’s game plan. Credit to the defence however who played well making some vital challenges under a lot of pressure. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as more often than not a difficult one and one I don’t thankfully have to make on the final whistle, even if one or two players are in prime position in my thought the notes help immensely. Some great and battling performances out there. Firstly for Mulbarton, Ellie Hunter  really covered the ground in the middle getting back to help the defence and winning the ball doing her all to get her side going forwards. Credit to the defence for a hard fought display particularly Megan Belsey for some vital blocks and tackles. Goalkeeper Jody Todd too her saves and positioning undoubtedly keeping the score down. For Wroxham was a strong attacking performance  without necessarily getting the rewards. Both full backs got forwards well Leah Newcombe on the right, Chelsea Clarke strong on the left with some great runs and passing, getting into good shooting positions. Hannah Fuller up top would have scored a hat-trick on another day made some great runs pulling into the channels setting up others. Luci Middleton deeper with some fantastic runs with and without the ball to create chances. Tigi Robson scoring the winning goal in her 50th appearance for the club. As is often the case when one side is pushing the other back it’s how the ball is won back in the middle that often keeps the pressure on and for that today’s award goes to Jennifer Drummie a strong performance in the middle to win the ball and keep Wroxham pressing forwards getting into some good positions to have herself a shot too.

  Well rested after a week off, didn’t know how much I needed it. A great game to come back to. Always a good contest between the sides who might well end up facing each other in the County Cup should they win there respective quarter finals. My thanks to both for there help with the teams today and to catch up with a few footballing friends.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Sunday 24th September

ERWFL Premier Division

 Travelling to Trafford Park this Sunday to take in my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier Division, representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid is a strong league with plenty of talent on show today’s game featuring Wroxham Women taking on Essex side, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. 

 A competitive title battle last season seeing Luton Town Ladies getting off to a flying start before the others hauled them in with newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women clinching the title to secure back to back promotions to reach the FAWNL for the first time in their history. With just one promotion spot up for grabs it’s sure to be another tense battle at the top. A new look Real Bedford Ladies side setting the early pace with 5 wins from 5 to sit 7 points clear of the rest… a long way to go however. 

  Today’s game featuring two sides long established in the ERWFL, both under going transformations along the way. Wroxham Women formerly Acle United Ladies merging with Wroxham in 2019, the club keen to build on a side pushing for promotion to the FAWNL themselves and go all the way. Covid coming along to disrupt every bodies plans, Wroxham haven’t quite found the consistency to push for the top in what is a highly competitive league. A new start for the club this season bringing in a new manager, Adam Race, previously with Long Stratton Women, having turned the Norfolk Division One side into a strong team ready to challenge at the top of the league.

 Have recruited strongly over the past couple of season’s bringing in a number of fresh faces under previous manager Joe Simpson with the likes of goalkeeper Megan Gowing joining last season from Beccles. Brought in several players from their one time league rivals Wymondham Town Ladies with more joining this campaign, defenders Leah Newcombe and Chelsea Clarke, winger Natasha Youngs and midfielder Rachel Cossey returning to the pitch after battling back from 2 season’s lost due to injury. Ella Gambell joining from Norwich City Women along with Lily Alexander. Race also bringing striker Luci Middleton with him from Long Stratton after finishing top scorer in the league with 35 goals from 20 appearances. Hit the ground running with a 12-0 demolition away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies on the opening day. defeats away to Luton and at home to Real Bedford were to follow before earning the 3 points with a good win away to Needham Market Women last Sunday.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies like Wroxham establishing themselves in the ERWFL under a different guise as Little Thurrock Dynamo’s before going on to become an integral part of the Bowers & Pitsea family in 2018, going on to secure promotion to the Premier Division that season. Having consolidated building into a strong team within tier 5 more than capable of beating anyone on their day. Robert Elmes coming in to manage the first team this season.

The first team backed up by a Reserves team playing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and a strong youth set-up with a number of new recruits to the squad promoted from their treble winning U18s side with the like of goalkeeper Hannah Stone, Libby Cooper, Darcy Drewitt, Ella Ford, Olivia Harris, Ellie Barrett and Chloe Bardsley all featuring today. Danielle Hindley also joining this season from Hutton Ladies with Isabella Darby also new to the squad joining from London Seaward. Came out on top in a 7 goal thriller on the opening day winning 4-3 at home to Royston Town Women that followed up by back to back draws both 2-2 at home to AFC Dunstable Women and away to newly promoted Barking FC Women. Losing out narrowly 1-0 away to leaders Real Bedford Ladies last time out. 

 Trafford Park the venue for today’s game home, the large grass pitch with a slight gradient a good test for players fitness space to exploit. A small covered stand on one side with the clubhouse housing the bar and kitchen on the opposite side serving hot food and drink. The weather still mild as we enter autumn, cloudy but warm whenever the sun breaks through, still with no chance of rain. Still nursing a soar knee but the most comfortable position is standing up a god cup of tea and cheeseburger all set for the game.

Wroxham Women

  Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Gowing, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson, Albany Hodgson, Becky Russell (C), Rachel Cossey, Lara Densley, Lauren Bullard, Ella Gambell & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Jennifer Drummie, Ellie Overton, Luci Middleton & Lily Alexander.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Hannah Stone, Holly Moore, Libby Cooper, Natalie Strange (C), Olivia Bilson, Danielle Hindley, Megan Elwes, Ella Ford, Millie Isherwood, Whitney Locke & Darcy Drewitt. Subs – Olivia Harris, Isabella Darby, Ellie Barrett & Chloe Bardsley.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Couple of familiar faces in the Wroxham squad with new names this season both through marriage, midfielder Jennifer Codman now Jennifer Drummie while the Fuller girl who was scoring all the goals in pre-season like she was Hannah Waters, is Hannah Waters (now Fuller) although I’m so used to writing Waters in my notes it’ll take a while to adjust. A new captain too for Wroxham with Becky Russell taking over as captain. Natalie Strange captaining Bowers & Pitsea this season.

  It’s the visitors to kick off the 1st half attacking up the slope with Bowers & Pitsea wearing red and white vertical striped shirts with red shorts and socks. Wroxham opposite lined up wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball pushed back into midfield played out to the right into Millie Isherwood held up and Libby Cooper gets up in support moving inside the ball rolled into her is fouled presenting Bowers & Pitsea with an early opportunity to push players up into the opposition box. 25 yards out to the right of the area Isherwood on the ball clips a high ball in towards the far post, over everyone and out of play for the goal kick. 

  Bowers & Pitsea fast to close Wroxham’s defence down at the start preventing the ball getting upfield. Leah Newcombe on the right clearing the ball up to Lauren Bullard in attack moving into the right channel for Wroxham squares it inside 20 yards out for Ella Gambell who in turn attempts to thread the ball through the Bowers & Pitsea defence onto Fuller right inside the box, Danielle Hindley sticking a foot out getting a nick on the ball to divert it back for her keeper to claim. 

 Gambell rolling her marker well on the left as she looks to take the ball on down the wing, Cooper in to close her down for Bowers & Pitsea. Albany Hodgson winning the ball at the back for Wroxham sending it long up to Fuller in attack right outside the box held up plays it back to Newcombe with Lara Densley coming over to support, Hindley tackling for the visitors the ball out for a throw in.

  Gambell with the ball left for Wroxham, checks inside passing central for Russell she opens her body to turn the ball into Fuller outside the D, Hindley close in tackling to win the ball back for Bowers & Pitsea cleared releases Whitney Locke, carrying the ball forwards well as they counter sends the ball inside for Darcy Drewitt making a central run in behind, goalkeeper Megan Gowing rushing out to close her down takes the ball wide of the keeper moving left looks to send the ball back across into the open goal, defenders racing back to try and clear their lines, the ball through rolls wide of the right post, an opportunity to open the scoring missed inside the opening 7 minutes.

Bowers & Pitsea’s Darcy Drewitt

  Ella Ford bringing the ball on for Bowers & Pitsea lifts it up to Locke breaking right, 20 yards out turns infield, Hodgson setting a leg out to tackle winning the ball well for the hosts. Gambell looking to get on down the left for Wroxham threatening to get onto the ball inside the box, Moore gets across her shielding the ball out of play Gambell hustling her is disappointed when a corner is given to Wroxham. A great in swinging corner from the left across the six yard box, Hodgson up to attack just a little too high gets her head to the ball but can’t direct it on target drops to the right of goal Bowers & Pitsea clear but can’t retain possession as Wroxham turn play around looking to carve their way through the middle, crowded, Bowers & Pitsea shut the door.

Wroxham defender, Albany Hodgson

  Strange playing the ball into midfield, helped on into Locke, has Megan Elwes making a run out to the right lays the ball into her feet reaching the top of the area crosses into towards the far post looking for Drewitt, too close to the keeper though, Gowing down well to lay claim to the ball in her six yard box. Bowers & Pitsea quick to build an attack getting the ball into midfield the diagonal pass fired up towards Isherwood left of the D, looks to control bring it down and spin off her marker, Newcombe though has read it backing off so she is ready to challenge as Isherwood turns.

  A intriguing contest both sides cancelling each other out to a degree, closing each other down, trying to use the width without getting any killer balls into the box. Bullard getting the ball into Fuller from the right 20 yards out over the ball sends her shot angling in towards goal straight into Stone’s gloves. Moments later a diagonal ball deep from the right from Wroxham wrong foots the Bowers and Pitsea defence leaving Fuller free inside the area one on one with the keeper, Stone staying big composed as Fuller trying to send the ball wide of her, saves well with the ball struck at her. 

Hannah Fuller with a one on one with the goalkeeper Hannah Stone

  Wroxham looking strong as they flood forwards attacking left the ball into Gambell drives infield 25 yards out curling a shot in towards goal looping up Stone again behind it backing up to claim the ball high.  Wroxham with two good chances to score in as many minutes. Bowers & Pitsea winning a free-kick the ball up to Drewitt outside the box, Rachel Cossey defending on her for Wroxham, the visitors press on the left winning the ball back send on for Drewitt in behind on the left, on her out looking for support Wroxham close her down en masse to clear.

Libby Cooper

Wroxham looking to counter with Cossey sending the ball out to Gambell on the left, good foot work to get away from her marker turning inside, Locke tracking back well to help her defence out regaining possession. Cooper up on the right with the ball at her feet for Bowers & Pitsea playing it on for Locke pulling wide moving into the corner fires a low cross into the six yard box Drewitt coming in central, Gowing down to save turning the ball behind for a corner kick. From the right dropping for Drewitt top of the area right side of the D. pulls the trigger, Bullard in the way blocks and clears.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Megan Gowing

  Bullard bringing the ball down well of her chest turning as it drops to lay the ball forwards for Fuller to attack bursting through the Bowers & Pitsea back line to the right of goal, Stone quickly off her line out to lay claim to the ball before it can be attacked. Hodgson sees the ball out for a corner as she defends with Cooper as Locke on the right lays the ball into her. The corner played into the top of the area from the right met in the air by Olivia Bilson a bullet header knocked down heading towards goal, Chelsea Clarke coming off the post to stick a leg out block the shot.

  Newcombe booked for Wroxham as Bowers & Pitsea are awarded a free-kick out wide on the left. The delivery sent long beyond the far post. The visitors winning another set-piece in a central position the ball fired up into the area, Gowing calls for it and coming claims well. Clarke breaking on the left for Wroxham with Gambell on the overlap, whipping a cross into the area intercepted by Bilson for Bowers & Pitsea. Fuller picking up a yellow card for Wroxham as they make a change with Densley coming off, Luci Middleton coming on.

  Elwes pushing up on the right with Locke as Bowers & Pitsea push forwards in attack looking to play a one two outside the box, Elmes can’t quite take the ball on past Wroxham’s Tigi Robson as Locke lays it back into her. Cossey charging down Harris as she lines up a strike from 20 yards out. Bowers & Pitsea upping the tempo towards the end of the 1st half but they are caught out as Wroxham turn play around sending a forwards pass long for Fuller breaking wide right fires the cross inside for Bullard in behind the defence Stone rushing out to the top of her area to close it down, Bullard dragging it wide of the keeper to put herself clear into the box rolls the ball in towards the open goal, defenders racing back to defend the line, between them Bilson and Hindley clear the ball for a corner on the left. In high to the far post Gambell rising heads the ball wide.

Wroxham’s Lauren Bullard

 

Hodgson playing a great ball out to Clarke on the left as the full back gets up the wing sending a good cross into the area, Stone getting up to catch it bring the ball down safely. The hosts building on the right Russell out to Bullard strikes the shot from 25 yards on the angle fired low wide past the far post. Both full backs looking to get on for Wroxham now Newcombe forwards on the right as Cossey and Russell link up trough the middle, Bowers & Pitsea defending seeing the ball out for a goal kick. 

Millie Isherwood

 Drewitt on through the middle for Bowers & Pitsea the pass out to Locke pulling right shoots on the angle a low drive in towards goal, Gowing down low to save. A change late in the 1st half for the visitors with Isabella Darby coming on for Hindley. Middleton combining with Bullard out on the right for Wroxham the ball fed back to Russell in the middle strikes from distance 30 yards plus fired wide across goal. Middleton with the ball on the right crossed in central Gambell not catching the volley cleanly the ball deflected safely into the box for the keeper to collect. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-0 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  All square at the break and fair enough on the balance of play however both sides with a gilt edged chance to score. Has been competitive with both sides cancelling each other out at times, enjoying good spells in attack looking to use the pitch without delivering too many killer balls both keepers called into action nevertheless looking comfortable. All set up for an exciting 2nd half.

  Both sides making changes at half-time a triple substitution for Wroxham with Jennifer Drummie, Ellie Overton along with Densley returning for Cossey and Newcombe and Bullard. A double switch for Bowers & Pitsea with Chloe Bardsley and Ellie Barrett on for Isherwood and Elwes. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway put into Russell central sends it long for Gambell out left the visitors can see it safely out of play for a throw in, Wroxham taking it quickly down for Fuller knocks it inside for Middleton to strike on the volley from 25 yards on the angle her shot looping straight into the keeper. 

Luci Middleton lining up the volley for Wroxham

  Drummie bringing the ball on for Wroxham into space on the left lifting the diagonal ball into the box Stone keeping her eye on it taking it cleanly on the bounce not distracted by Fuller closing her down. Bowers & Pitsea get the ball down on the left, Locke now over on that side looknig to combine with Bardsley in attack shifting inside, Robson getting the tackle in for Wroxham top of the area. 

Tigi Robson defending for Wroxham

 Middleton seeing the ball into her 20 yards out flicking it out to Densley breaking clear into the box on the right, the flag going up against her as she chips the ball up over the keeper to cannon off the base of the far post. Bowers & Pitsea mount an attack on their left Cooper up with Locke the ball flashed across the top of the area collected by Drewitt right side, Clarke in to charge her down as she goes to shoot the ball deflected away for a corner. An in swinging ball high into the six yard box Gowing fouled as she rises to punch the ball. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Olivia Harris

  GOAL! Cooper carrying the ball forwards well for Bowers & Pitsea on the left covering the ground before flashing a shot wide across the six yard box as players pile forwards, retrieved by Bardsley out beyond the fire posts sends it back into the danger area, a spot of pinball ensues as Wroxham look to clear their lines rebounds straight to Ellie Barrett up on the right to strike the ball on the angle 20 yards out to race along the ground to find the bottom corner scoring her 1st senior goal to put the visitors into the lead 0-1.

Ellie Barrett with the opening goal for Bowers & Pitsea

  Bowers & Pitsea breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half Wroxham straight on the attack from the restart the ball out left with Gambell and Fuller crossed into the area, Middleton inside the box looking to hook it over her shoulder from 12 yards out plants it wide of the far post. Cooper taking on the ball as Bowers & Pitsea look to counter taking it left fed on for Bardsley, Gowing though out to the edge of her area quickly to claim.

  Middleton releasing Densley racing away on right with the ball into space crossing into Russell central 20 yards out her shot blocked by Bilson well, and then again the defender sticking a leg out to deflect the ball as Russell retrieves it for a 2nd bite.   Changes for Bowers & Pitsea as they bring Isherwood and Drewitt back on for Locke and Moore. Game on with Bowers & Pitsea looking top extend their lead, the goal though sharpening Wroxham up as they look to close in for the ball. Middleton clashing with Cooper as they go up for the ball, a little blood to wash out of her mouth Middleton frustrated as she has to go off to come back on. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Whitney Locke with Wroxham’s Ellie Overton

  Off the resulting drop ball, Isherwood is put clear on the left to send a cross looping into the six yard box won and cleared by Clarke for Wroxham. Middleton taking the ball on from Drummie drives on central before being taken out the advantage played as the ball drops to Densley free on the right she swings a cross into the area, caught high by Stone. Hodgson with a word from the referee as she brings down Isherwood top of the circle the ball lifted into the area, Bowers & Pitsea appealing for a penalty as Bilson is sent tumbling but the protests waved away as the visitors press the ball high Wroxham scrambling it clear Russell sending it up to Fuller pulling left, Barrett doing the defending for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Olivia Bilson

   Moore back into the action for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ford. Isherwood left putting the ball on for Harris for Bowers & Pitsea on the left, Overton in to close her down win the challenge for the hosts carries the ball into the middle forwards into Middleton who in turn sends it on for Densley peeling away right, Moore tackling well for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Wroxham’s Lara Densley

  Wroxham with a strong spell, Bowers & Pitsea a little disjointed on the back foot conceding a corner on the left defended at the near post. Lily Alexander on now for Wroxham replacing Gambell on the left. Into the final 15 minutes Clarke rifling a shot in towards goal from range held by Stone in the Bowers & Pitsea goal. The assistant referee raising his flag the keeper carrying the ball over the line… for a corner. Not spotted by the referee at first play goes on as Wroxham protest… play brought back for the corner Bowers & Pitsea not happy.

  GOAL! The corner played into the area half cleared a Wroxham player lining up a shot from the left on the angle 25 yards out driven in low Stone down sharply to save only succeeds in pushing the ball across her goal into the path of Middleton the striker reacting instinctively to smash the ball back across goal and in to equalise 1-1. 

Luci Middleton with the equaliser for Wroxham

 Bowers & Pitsea furious with the decisions that led to the equaliser, captain Strange going into the book for her protests. Heated from the bench too and as play build on the right the referee stops proceeding to issue the Bowers & Pitsea manager with a red card. Bowers & Pitsea need to regain their composure winning a free-kick 25 yards out right of the goal. Harris over it goes for the shot sending the ball over the bar. 

  More frustration for the visitors as Drewitt feeds the ball through for Isherwood breaking into the box right of goal to strike a low shot past the keeper into the back of the net nut throws her head up in dismay as she sees the flag raised against her. Hodgson winning the ball strongly at the back for Wroxham pinging the long pass forwards for Fuller pulling wide left drills an angled shot in low towards the near post, Stone getting her leg in the way deflecting the ball into her side netting. Gambell back on for Wroxham going to the right in place of Densley.

 Wroxham on the front foot pushing forwards Overton with Densley on the right taking the ball past her on the overlap, squares a cross into the box a dummied header from Fuller sees the ball drop past her into Drummie central, Bilson in to close her down can’t dig the ball out from under her feet. Strange furious talks herself into trouble once again, this time though she is sent to the sin bin leaving Bowers & Pitsea down to 10 for the final 10 minutes.

  Clarke getting on well for Wroxham in the 2nd half gaining ground with the ball, Bilson out to close her down. Russell striking a shot wide from distance as the hosts look to use their player advantage. Fuller holds the ball up on the left for Wroxham looking for support, Russell offering it laid into her 20 yards out, Bilson tackling to win the ball back. Don’t keep it for long as Overton find Gambell on the right to cross the ball into the area for Fuller central looking to see the ball down catch it on the volley, puts her effort wide of the far post.

Wroxham’s Chelsea Clarke

  Getting feisty a few tempers flaring Bowers & Pitsea unhappy with how the game has gone on the back foot in the closing stages the game moving into stoppage time Wroxham pressing forwards winning the ball inside their opponents half.

 GOAL! Wroxham with the ball on the left Clarke bring it on with an inch perfect past over the top to put Fuller though on goal one on one with the keeper composed with a finishers instinct sends the ball past her into the back of the net and turns with her arms raised in celebration moment before being piled on by her joyous teammates 90+3 2-1!

Hannah Fuller celebrates after scoring the winner for Wroxham in stoppage time

Fuller piled on by her joyous teammates after her goal at the death

 Strange allowed back on as Wroxham have the ball on the corner on the right Gambell with Fuller looking to keep it in the corner win a throw then a corner kick taken short into Fuller knocked off her behind for a goal kick. Bowers & Pitsea mounting one last attack going right Clarke defending but the free-kick conceded players forwards the ball flung into the area knocked out and launched clear by Middleton as the final whistle blows. Wroxham coming back from a goal down to win at the death.

Luci Middleton launching the ball clear at the final whistle

Full time Wroxham Women 2-1 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  Wroxham coming from a goal down to win the game 2-1 at the death. Both sides with good opportunities to score in the first half nevertheless going into the changing rooms goalless at the break. Bowers & Pitsea getting their noses in front early in the 2nd half with both sides looking to score after that, Wroxham livening up after conceding as Bowers & Pitsea looked to extend their lead. A spot of controversy leading to the equaliser Bowers & Pitsea not happy with the awarding of the corner in the first place, incensed when it led to the goal their captain booked and manager sent off. Wroxham pushing hard in the final 10 minutes, Bowers & Pitsea reduced to 10 with Strange sin binned used the advantage pressing to the end Clarke’s inch perfect pass sending Fuller through on goal in stoppage time to score the winner. The result lifts Wroxham into 3rd in the table.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’ Football East – Player of the Match award. As often is the case a tough on to call with several strong performances on the pitch. A few to mention firstly for Bowers & Pitsea. Goalkeeper Hannah Stone with some great positioning and composure. Olivia Bilson with a number of strong challenges at the back to win the ball. Darcy Drewitt taking the ball on well as did Libby Cooper with Whitney Locke looking to make things happen out wide. For Wroxham, Luci Middleton made a real impact coming on late in the first half looking to get onto the ball set up others as well as for herself. Ella Gambell with some strong runs out wide. Hannah Fuller (I’ve deleted the W a dozen tomes while writing this report) a force in attack taking on the defence and pulling out wide to set up chances, scoring the winner. The award though goes to defender Chelsea Clarke won the ball well at the back putting in the blocks and a threat carrying the ball forwards an inch perfect pass to set up the winning goal.

Another enjoyable trip to Trafford Park my thanks to both clubs for their help today and hospitality. As I’ve come to expect another competitive and well contested game from the ERWFL Premier Division plenty of talent on show.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report -Mulbarton Belles Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 19th March

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

A trip to Mulberry park this Sunday to watch one of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-finals as Mulbarton Belles Ladies vying to reach their 3rd successful final taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Wroxham Women.

The Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport will see the final held at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road stadium for the 3rd time on Friday 19th May, and with Norwich City Women themselves soon to get a long over due game at the stadium with a huge 4,000 tickets already sold, Norfolk FA will be hoping for a record crowd of their own in the final as the game continues to grow.

Norwich City Women and Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women contesting the other semi-final. Mulbarton Belles Ladies relatively new in just their 3rd season with Mulbarton FC taking them under their umbrella following the turmoil that lead to much of the first team leaving Thorpe United with manger Martin Francis. Reaching the county cup final in the past two season’s losing out to Norwich and Wymondham in those respective finals making a dream come true appearance at Carrow Road along the day will fancy their chances on home turf again despite taking on higher league opposition.

Going from strength to strength with the playing squad growing have added a Development and 7’s side which are both going strong in their respective Division’s. The 1st team defending champions in Division One closing in on leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women still with a 100% and 2 games in hand. Have yet to play the current leaders home or away and those games could likely determine who will be champions this time around. Ironically due to play Dussindale & Hellesdon today, postponed with both reaching the last 4 of the county cup. Rebekah Lake one of the best strikers in the county prolific in front of goal, currently with 14 this season has an equally potent strike partner up top with her now with Francesca Catchpole joining following the ad collapse of Wymondham Town Ladies. Hitting the ground running with her new club with 15 goals from 8 appearances.

Wroxham Women too bringing in another top quality striker following the withdrawal of Wymondham Town Ladies with Hannah Waters moving to Trafford Park. Vastly experienced, similar to Lake in her movement pulling into the channels, difficult to mark and floating across the back line ready to attack Has 12 goals so far from 13 appearances. Wroxham vying to reach their 1st county cup final entering the competition at the quarter final stage the ERWFL side putting opponents Fakenham Town Ladies to the sword with a dominant 11-0 win both Waters and young attacker Holly Connell scoring hat-tricks.

Joe Simpson coming in to manage at the start of the season, Wroxham have brought in several new faces to the squad with several young players with experience with Norwich at youth level, a handful from Simpson’s ex-club King’s Lynn Town Ladies and from Wymondham, Water’s along with defender Lauren Kett and midfielder Jennifer Codman. Defender Albany Hodgson the latest to sign on with FAWNL experience with Cambridge United WFC. Results have varied in the league as the squad evolves but with a great blend of experience and youth definitely has lots of potential. Both sides will fancy their chances today and certainly won’t be taking anything for granted.

Mulberry Park the venue for this Sunday’s semi-final contest, beside the Common in Mulbarton he village hall and social club along side the ground with a large clubhouse housing the changing rooms. A small covered seated stand beside the grass pitch with the Tea Hut open serving hot drinks and snacks. The grass pitch holding up well despite seeing alot of action and rain overnight. No rain forecast for this afternoon although it remains cloudy and dull above but relatively mild with no wind.

Mulbarton Belles Ladies

 Mulbarton Belles Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Melissa Belsey, Olivia Smith, Megan Belsey, Lucy Lincoln, Laura Hedtke, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan, Francesca Catchpole & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Annie Smith, Emma Farmer, Alice Ladbrooke, Charlotte Groves & Lucy Kean.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Breanna Rudd, Tigi Robson, Lauren Kett, Albany Hodgson, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell (C), Lara Densley, Hayley Kindred, Holly Connell & Hannah Waters. Subs – Jess Horn, Lauren Bullard, Zara O’Neill, Holly Walker & Lucy Bradford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Becky Russell & Rebekah Lake with the officials before kick-off

  A decent sized crowd in attendance the Tea Hut busy, it’s the hosts Mulbarton to get the first half underway wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue coloured shorts and socks. Wroxham normally in blue themselves in their away strip today, spearmint green shirts with black across the shoulders and sleeves with black shorts and socks. Lake playing the back back into midfielder Laura Hedtke the ball send long out to the right for Molly Ryan to attack, Tigi Robson clearing back into the middle for Wroxham. Both sides moving in to close the ball down Albany Hodgson winning it right side send forwards for Hayley Kindred, Olivia Smith in to tackle for Mulbarton the ball going out for a throw.

Mulbarton’s Olivia Smith

  Wroxham pressing Mulbarton inside their own half winning a throw wide left, played into Holly Connell central looks to put the ball out right for Kindred burst forwards, Smith closing her down to charge the ball down going away for a throw in. Wroxham lively on the flanks at the start Kindred getting some joy on the right, breaks into the area, Lucy Lincoln tracking back to defend putting the foot in to block the ball take it out of play. 

  Mulbarton get the ball into Hedtke the midfielder lifting it forwards for Ryan getting up into the box on the right, Robson back to defend for Wroxham clearing, Wroxham quick to get it on through the middle out to Kindred attacking on the right winning the throw. The visitors working the ball down the line before swinging a cross into the six yard box, Cara Anderson with the confident claim in the Mulbarton goal. 

Jennifer Codman battling for possession in the middle for Wroxham, Lara Densley in support the ball finding it’s way to Kindred on the right has Waters making a run across the defence into the right channel ahead of her calling for the ball, Kindred threading the pass into the striker taking it on into the box, Lincoln going with her stretching to challenge deny her a shot on goal. From the resulting throw on the right the low cross driven into the area is again taken comfortably by Anderson.

Wroxham’s Jennifer Codman

  A lively opening 5 minutes to the match, Mulbarton send lake away on the right wing bombing forwards, Lauren Kett blocks her cross. Kindred a god outlet for Wroxham on the right wide picked out with the pass sends it inside for the one two with Waters, bursting forwards getting onto the end of the return pass lifts her diagonal ball from the corner of the box high in towards goal, Anderson keeping her eye on it catching well s Connell closes in fast. Wroxham’s captain Becky Russell with a good run into the channel right side whipping a cross into the box, no one there to attack it.

Wroxham’s Albany Hodgson (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Anderson the busier of the two goalkeepers, needing to come racing out to the top of her area to clear as Connell puts through a great ball for Waters to nick half a yard on the Mulbarton defence. Anderson with another catch from a Kindred cross on the right as Codman picks her out with the pass. Sophie Jermy getting hold of the ball in the final 3rd for Mulbarton right of goal 20 yards out pulls the trigger, Hodgson getting behind it to block for Wroxham inside the box.

Mulbarton’s Sophie Jermy

   Kett with the interception at the back central for Wroxham as Smith sends the diagonal ball on from left back. Mulbarton getting some joy with direct play through the middle the pass fed on sees Catchpole pulling of the defence to attack the box, Wroxham goalkeeper, Cyan Fullbrook rushing out to close her down with a brave save at the strikers feet to prevent her getting through on goal. 

Wroxham defender Lauren Kett looking to stop Rebekah Lake’s attack on the right (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  GOAL! Moments later Mulbarton hit Wroxham on the counter breaking forwards on the right players getting forwards Jermy playing the ball on for Lake bursting into the box from the right, pulls the trigger the shot lashed in towards goal, Fullbrook with the spectacular save diving to her left to keep out the ball, knocked back out of the areas players rushing back to protect the goal Fullbrook scrambling back to her feet,  Molly Ryan latches onto the ball outside the box getting her foot over it to rifle it into the back of the net 1-0.

Mulbarton celebrating after Molly Ryan fires them into the lead

 Mulbarton ahead in the 17th minute, a blow for Wroxham after a positive start to the game. frustrated as a free-kick is awarded on the right high up the pitch, Mulbarton taking it quickly fed up the line for Lake, the ball seen out for play by Robson, Wroxham further incensed when a corner is awarded. The ball flung in near side Lincoln up with the header sending it back out wide to the corner taker the 2nd attempt at a cross finding Lake top of the D, can’t get a shot away instead rolls it into Catchpole inside the box wide left, shifts the ball onto her right foot before attempting to curl a shot into the to corner the ball sailing wide of the post. 

Mulbarton attacker, Francesca Catchpole

  Mulbarton with their tails up after taking the lead the game remains lively, Densley playing the pass out to Kindred on the right touch line  powerful run with the ball under pressure from Smith sends her cross behind. Wroxham looking to use the pitch moving the ball forwards at pace Robson with a superb diagonal pass to Kindred right side heading for the box is fouled by Lincoln as she slides in to challenge the free-kick awarded. Floated in towards the far post area attacked but knocked behind for the goal kick.

   Robson attacking on the left for Wroxham with Connell, Densley taking it on bursting into the box, Megan Belsey defending for Mulbarton conceding the corner. Attacked at the near post headed on central an infringement spotted play stopped the free-kick going Mulbarton’s way. An ambitious Wroxham pass finding Connell out on the right having swapped flanks with Kindred, stretching for the ball a heavy first touch giving Lincoln a chance to get to the ball first and clear for Mulbarton.

Wroxham striker Hannah Waters, attempting to get in between the Belsey twins, Megan & Melissa (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Kindred out on the left is fouled halfway inside the Mulbarton half. Over the set-piece herself sends a low shot angling in towards the near post, Anderson getting across to grab it safely into her gloves. Wroxham seeing more of the ball Codman linking up with Russell in the middle the pass finding Connell central plays it into the path of Waters breaking into the right channel, Lincoln going with her Smith backing her up no way through Waters turns to keep possession laying the ball back inside to Connell her shot charged down, Russell latching onto the loose ball trying her luck from range Mulbarton again charging the ball down, appeals for handball this time, no joy. 

Wroxham captain, Becky Russell (photo credit Daniel Kett)

Codman getting onto the ball for Wroxham forwards for Connell central has Russell making the run across her plays the pass on, Hedtke tracking back to make the blocking tackle for Mulbarton. Melissa Belsey on the right of the Mulbarton defence putting in a great tackle on Russell as the Wroxham captain gets forwards to receive a Densley pass following a clearance from Kett at the back. Catchpole intercepting a poor kick out from the box by Fullbrook on the left going to strike the ball early from 25 yards pulls her attempt wide of the left post. 

Mulbarton’s Francesca Catchpole

  Wroxham getting frustrated seeing more of the ball haven’t yet been able to carve open a clear opportunity in front of goal. Mulbarton sitting back adsorbing alot of pressure ready to spring on the counter. That frustration shown as Lake is chopped down in the middle, the Mulbarton captain staying down in need of treatment. Half-time fast approaching Lake is taken off to be assessed with Emma Farmer coming on. Lincoln to launch the resulting free kick. Headed clear by Kett top of the area the ball launched out to Connell looking to break on the right, Smith getting across to tackle for Mulbarton. Hodgson stretching into the tackle as she looks to beat Catchpole to the ball is late catching the player picking up the first yellow card of the game.

 

Half-time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 1-0 Wroxham Women

Laura Hedtke with Wroxham’s Lara Densley

  Molly Ryan’s strike in the 17th minute the difference between the two sides going into the break with Wroxham heading back to the changing rooms, Mulbarton staying out on the pitch. A frustrating 1st half from Wroxham’s point of view seeing more of the ball moving it about the park well enough just haven’t been able to get that final ball into the box get numbers in on the hosts defence. Mulbarton sitting back making sure they leave no room in behind letting Wroxham come on picking their moments to get forwards not over committing players to the attack. Taking their chance when it came their way. A long way to go with a single goal in it both sides with good options to bring on from the bench if called upon.

  The sides back out, Lake back on for Mulbarton with Farmer off. No changes for Wroxham as the visitors get the 2nd half underway. The ball put back into Codman in the middle lifts the ball on to the right channel, Hedtke adjudged to have handled the ball as she goes to clear, Wroxham presented with an early opportunity to put pressure on the Mulbarton goal. Kett on it spotting Connell free making a run up the right wing her cross swung into a crowded penalty box cut out at the near post going behind for a corner.

Lifted into the six yard box over everyone attacking the near post drops towards the far post with Densley free from Wroxham having to turn to get onto the ball runs away from her as she goes to strike it spinning wide of the post. Wroxham strong at the start of the 2nd half attacking on the right winning another corner. Put in towards the top of the area the ball dropping loose the shot struck, Ryan charging it down for Mulbarton attempting to get away with out to the right.

Mulbarton’s Molly Ryan

 Wroxham quick to win the ball back get back on the offensive the crossfield ball out to the right Kindred getting a throw high up the pitch. The defence stretched Wroxham pressing forwards play drawn to the right the ball clipped back into the box sees Connell free central to rush in on the keeper, the bounce of the ball deceiving her spinning away to the left, the Mulbarton defence getting back to challenge the ball turned behind for a corner. Put in towards the near post defended by Hedtke back out to the left flung back into the box, the header driven in towards the left post Hedtke their covering the post defending nodding it behind for another corner.

Wroxham’s Holly Connell (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  All Wroxham in the early stages of the 2nd half the corner put high into the box on the keeper, nodded over as Waters goes down attacking it. Codman picking up the loose ball in the centre picking the pass forwards up for Waters inside the D, dropping Lincoln slicing her clearance as she goes to clear caught by Anderson at her near post. A busy opening 10 minutes to the start of the 2nd half dominated by Wroxham. Good foot work from Kindred on the ball on the right for Wroxham getting away from her marker to square a low cross into the area, intercepted by Lincoln in ahead of Waters.

Hayley Kindred (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Densley central finding Connell on the left for Wroxham attempts to fed the low pass into the box for Waters, Anderson sharp out of her six yard box to collect before Waters can reach it. Mulbarton working hard at the back with little opportunity to get forwards spring a counter attack Hedtke with Hunter the ball forwards Lake racing away clear left channel in behind, Fullbrook rushing out comes along way doesn’t get there as Lake lifts the ball over her the defence racing back grateful to see the ball run wide of the far post.

Mulbarton’s captain, Rebekah Lake

 Decisions going against Wroxham adding to their general frustration, Mulbarton spurred on by a buoyant crowd, Hunter on for Jermy lifted into Lake drifting right seeing the ball down into her feet turns to release Ryan on the wing, Robson lunging in to tackle for Wroxham the ball gone for the throw. Connell looking to battle her way through on the right as she and Megan Belsey go shoulder to shoulder at the back the defender holding her off conceding a corner. 

  The delivery from the corner played in towards the penalty spot Jermy gets her head on it for Mulbarton, knocking it down towards the top of the area then rushes out to charge down the resulting shot, Densley getting hold of the loose ball sending it over to the right a shot on the angle blasted in across goal wide of the left post. Hedtke fouled inside her D, Wroxham far from happy as another decision goes against them. The visitors making a change brining off Densley in the middle sending on Zara O’Neill. 

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter with Hayley Kindred

  Hunter in the middle for Mulbarton playing the pass out to Lake on the right, Kett across to tackle for Wroxham the the throw conceded. Mulbarton lifting a high cross into the area from it, Fullbrook catching unopposed. Midway through the 2nd half Wroxham for all their possession unable to find the break through increasingly frustrated, manager Simpson carded as he voices his dismay. A game of attrition at times both sides working hard, Wroxham to find  goal, Mulbarton to defend their lead. Scrappy with fouls being given away. 

 

  Connell up on the left channel supporting Waters through the middle the striker played in through the Mulbarton defence, Anderson comes racing out to the top of her area sliding it to save at the strikers feet the the pair coming together the ball loose for a moment Waters snapping at it as Anderson goes to grab it the referee stopping play with the keeper hurt. Megan Belsey also struggling with an injury after the last Wroxham attack both players needing treatment. Wroxham making a double switch Codman and Rudd off for Holly Walker and Densely returning to the action.

Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

  Anderson slowly back to her feet, Belsey too hobbling to the side lines trying to run her injury off waiting to be called back on as play resumes. Play resumes with Wroxham getting forwards on the right Kindred to the by-line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross, the ball looping up onto the roof of the Mulbarton net. Kindred down after the attack holding her leg clearly picking up n injury is quickly assessed can’t play on needs to come off Lauren Bullard comes on for the visitors. 

 

  Waters stealing into the box looking to capitalise on a too short a back pass from the Mulbarton defence right of goal in ahead of Anderson diving to her left plants the ball into the side netting. Walker making her presence felt on the left for Wroxham strong to get hold of the ball, played central into Bullard back to Russell who attempts a shot from distance, not on. Waters drifting to the left with Bullard playing through the middle, whips a cross into the six yard box, is behind Connell closing in far post, Bullard deeper rushing onto the ball, her shot blocked by Lincoln. 

Becky Russell and Megan Belsey (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Anderson has been strong inside her six yard box all game and does well to claim the ball high as it is crossed in from the left with Waters on top of her. The game stretched Mulbarton tiring both Belsey sisters carrying a knock fighting for the ball O’Neill up to Waters her flick on finding Walker free on the left, Anderson rushing to close her down doing enough as Walker snatches her shot wide. Melissa Belsey coming off for Mulbarton with Farmer coming into the defence with  little over 8 minutes left to play.

  Wroxham pushing for the equaliser, Mulbarton working hard in defence to keep them at bay. Walker with fresh legs out on Wroxham’s leg showing great footwork to get the ball onto her favoured foot and shoot from distance the ball swerving nevertheless taken well low by Anderson. Lake doing what she can up top to run the ball down into the corner hold it up relieve the pressure.

Lara Densley (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Ryan attempting to bring the ball away on the right for Mulbarton is brought down by Walker. On halfway put in towards the top of the Wroxham area Hedtke heads it down for Lake right racing on to the by-line winning a late corner. Mulbarton keeping the ball in the corner eating up seconds the hoe crowd willing them on. Wroxham get possession back look to get on the attack through the middle Waters heading the ball on for Bullard, Megan Belsey getting a foot out to intercept for Mulbarton. 

  The clock ticking down Wroxham throwing everything forwards a throw high on the right put inside for Waters to take inside top of the area on the move tries to wrong foot everyone by striking the ball goalwards with the outside of her boot, in low hasn’t the pace to trouble Anderson as she drops to her left to smother the ball. Wroxham winning a free-kick top of the circle every one up into the area bar the goalkeeper the ball won by Catchpole headed clear.

  Mulbarton attempting to break Lake picked out running away right side, Connell rushing back to defend, tackling for Wroxham. Into stoppage time Wroxham threading the ball on for Waters central to run clear of the Mulbarton defence after the ball, Anderson comes right to the edge of her area gloves out ready to catch poised to claim just as Waters gets her toe to the ball knocks it on as striker and keeper collide a heavy blow for Anderson, Lincoln back around to clear the ball away to the right as Waters attempts to clear the keeper, everyone goes up appeals for everything, no penalty Wroxham are incensed, play stopped Anderson down hurt from the collision. A hard one to call who’d be a referee everyone sees it from a different angle only one opinion counts.

Cara Anderson taking a heavy knock following her coming together with Hannah Waters

  Anderson needs time to get back to her feet will be sporting a few bruises in the morning. Megan Belsey needs to come off however with Charlotte Groves on. Wroxham are not happy as Mulbarton have the free kick. The ball played forwards Hedtke going up to win it fouled a controversial end to the game as the final whistle blows and Mulbarton celebrate as they reach a 3rd successive County Cup final.

Full time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 1-0 Wroxham Women

  Mulbarton will face Norwich City Women in the Carrow Road final after they beat Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women 5-0 at The Nest. A battling performance from Mulbarton who had to dig deep in the 2nd half as Wroxham piled on the pressure. Working hard at the back to defend their 1-0 lead with Molly Ryan firing them ahead in the 1st half. Wroxham came on strong 2nd half seeing plenty of the ball but rarely carving Mulbarton open with Anderson proving to be a hard last defence to unlock in goal. Had the equaliser come early in the 2nd half then that would have opened up the game but that all important break through wouldn’t come. Feeling decisions weren’t going their way Wroxham will feel hard done by at the death but it was a hard call to make, in my opinion the referee got it right, I know several of you will disagree but without seeing the incident again who knows.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a hard working battling performance from both sides who gave it their all. Alot put into the game. For Wroxham, Hayley Kindred was outstanding on the right getting on, making good runs and ready availability to receive the ball. Jennifer Codman put herself about in the middle to win possession of the ball and get attacks going. Tigi Robson with some great defensive work on the left. For Mulbarton the defence was strong putting their all into keeping their lead secure. Laura Hedtke through the middle and getting back to defend on set-pieces. Today’s award though goes to goalkeeper Cara Anderson was strong inside her box with good calling for the ball and confident claims early on. Putting her body on the line rushing out to defend getting a far few knocks for her efforts.

Mulbarton through to their 3rd successive County Cup final

 

 A enjoyable afternoon at Mulberry Park, a good atmosphere. A welcoming club my thanks to both sides for their help with the team details, knew everyone but I always like to check, because you soon pull me up if I get somebodies name wrong! Additional thanks to Daniel Kett for use of his pictures in todays report. Norwich City Women v Mulbarton Belles Ladies in the County Cup Final on Friday 19th May promises to be a great occasion hopefully I will see you there.

by Darren Gilham

 

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Fakenham Town Ladies

Sunday 19th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

Quarter finals weekend in this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup. 4 strong ties with the seeded teams entering the competition. Today’s fixture featuring an all ERWFL line up with Premier Division sides Wroxham Women taking on ERWFL newcomers Fakenham Town Ladies for a place in the last 4 of the cup.

 Sponsored by Harrod Sports the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final will once again take place at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road stadium. Hosting the final twice previously, Wymondham Town Ladies winning on both occasions. Wymondham one of the seeded teams, the holders have since very sadly folded thus a new side will lift the trophy on Friday 19th May. A resurgent Norwich City Women looking the hot favourites to vying to reach Carrow Road for the first time in the competition, with ERWFL Premier Division sides, Wroxham Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies the other seeded teams.

 The quarter final draw pitting two of those seeded teams together with Norwich City Women hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Two county level sides are guaranteed a place in the last 4 of the cup with last season’s finalists Mulbarton Belles Ladies hosting Thetford Town Ladies. While Norfolk Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women are away to Division Two side KLSC FC Women.

Wroxham Women themselves looking to get to the County Cup final for the 1st time. Have had an up and down season in the ERWFL Premier Division, sitting in mid-table under new manager Joe Simpson alot of new players have joined and it has taken time to settle. Have a good blend of youth and experience, able to bring in a trio of ex-Wymondham players in striker Hannah Waters, midfielder Jennifer Codman and defender Lauren Kett to further strengthen the squad. Waters top scorer with 11 goals from 11 appearances. The County Cup representing a strong opportunity for silverware.

  Fakenham Town Ladies entering the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in the previous round, a potential banana skin away to a young and exciting looking Sprowston FC Women, however goals from, Nicole Costin, Sophie Lubbock and Chloe Gravett saw Fakenham come out on top of a physical tie reach the last 8 of the competition. Winning the League Cup last season Fakenham have moved up into regional league football for the 1st time. Has been a steep learning curve but one the squad has relished despite making a poor start losing their opening 5 games have rallied well working hard with a run of positive results in November to carry into the new year plus a good run in the ERWFL League Cup. Sophie Lubbock top scorer with 10 with Chloe Gravett on 9. Today’s County Cup game another stern test.

  The venue for today’s game the FDC in Bowthorpe, having previously been on at The Open FDC in Sprowston. Wroxham Women usually playing at Trafford Park along side Wroxham FC the grass pitch has seen alot of action and in need of a little TLC, and with fixture slots running out for Wroxham Women and the Trafford Park pitch receiving a little attention the decision was made to switch venues. Norfolk FA’s FDC (Football Development Centres) spread out about the city and beyond across the county. Providing playing pitches for a number of clubs and communities. The FDC in Bowthorpe boasting the Harrod Sport Arena the large 3G pitch hosting a number of finals with viewing on three sides a small seated stand with the clubhouse beyond serving hot and cold drinks. Brilliant weather considering it’s February, bright and sunny with the sun low in the sky, no wind perfect playing conditions.

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Breanna Rudd, Lucy Bradford, Jess Horn (C), Tigi Robson, Zara O’Neill, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell, Lauren Bullard, Holly Connell & Hannah Waters. Subs – Lara Densley, Holly Walker, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Lauren Kett.

Fakenham Town Ladies

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Ciah-Lilly Rudkin, Maddie Smith, Amie Hutchinson, Jemma Riches (C), Sian Sands, Nicole Costin, Vicky Lubbock, Chloe Gravett, Ruby Curtis, Shelley Woods & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Tilly Betts Hayley Marjoram, Olivia Baker, Megan Spurrell & Holly Davies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides naming a strong starting line-up with 5 each on the bench. Wroxham with the kick-off first half attacking into the sun with the right side of the pitch well shaded by high trees, the ‘hosts’ wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Fakenham lined up opposite wearing Amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to captain Jess Horn in the defence, sprays her pass long out to the right for Lauren Bullard to attack, Fakenham close her down the ball cleared.

  GOAL! Wroxham come straight back at Fakenham on the right the ball won in midfield forwards for Bullard has Becky Russell up with her inside the ball knocked into the midfielder releases it forwards for striker Hannah Waters to pull off the defence right of goal and strike the ball low across the keeper, Fakenham’s Ciah-Lilly Rudkin down smartly to try and get something on the ball, not enough and it deflected up off her into the bottom corner. Wroxham a goal up inside the opening minute 1-0.

Hannah Waters scoring in the opening minute for Wroxham (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  The perfect start to the cup tie for Wroxham and they stay on the front foot closing the ball down in the middle getting on on rapidly players running at the Fakenham defence Bullard right side crossing into the box long gathered by Waters beyond the far post, lays it back to the top of the D for midfielder Zara O’Neill, shoots her attempt blocked by Fakenham captain, Jemma Riches. Jennifer Codman once with Fakenham before moving on to enjoy a successful spell with Wymondham now with Wroxham attacks on the left linking up with full back Breanna Rudd, Ruby Curtis getting in amongst the pair to regain possession for Fakenham. 

Fakenham’s Ruby Curtis

  All Wroxham at the start the game condensed in the middle the ball won are quick to get on the counter with Bullard, Waters and Holly Connell all showing good movement and pace in attack. Connell winning a corner on the right, players up into the box the delivery floated in towards the penalty spot a decisive header clear from Fakenham’s Shelley Woods. With Wroxham pushing Fakenham back keeping them inside their own half getting out is proving difficult, Nicole Costin finding Chloe Gravett out wide left looks to get on with the ball stopped by Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Woods with another clearance inside the box from a Wroxham corner on the right. Codman with a heavy tackle on Smith as the Fakenham defender comes to clear the ball. Sophie Lubbock up top for Fakenham is somewhat isolated looking to plough her own furrow whenever the ball comes into her feet, turns well on the right looking to drive for the box, Rudd getting back on her to challenge the ball gone for a throw. Wroxham alive to the counter attack the defence having runners left and right Bullard picked out right side down the line her cross into the top of the area a vital interception from Riches with Waters ready to take it on behind.

Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

  Fakenham mount an attack on the left Gravett winning a throw high up the pitch combines with Sophie Lubbock the cross put long into the six yard box, Curtis attacking the far post can’t quite get anything on it. Wroxham send it clear the counter attack sprung, Connell with a good show of pace bombing on right side her cross whipped into the six yard box, Rudkin down low to make a safe claim. Russell over on the left for Wroxham on down the line for Waters moving into the corner, plays it back up the line for Russell to play the pass into her path as she runs into the box heading for the by-line Riches comes steaming in to make the blocking tackle the ball gone for a corner kick. Russell slicing her cross from the corner the ball swerving across the top of the area cleared by Sian Sands.

  GOAL! Wroxham capitalise on their fast start to the game by racing into a 2 goal lead, this one all about pace. The ball won inside the Wroxham half with Fakenham pushed up the pass threaded through the middle for Connell to chase, has the speed to out pace the defence to run onto the box right of the D, Rudkin racing out to try and close her down, Connell composed slotting the ball past her to find the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Holly Connell racing away to score Wroxham’s 2nd

  15 minutes on the clock Wroxham 2 goals to the good and looking strong taking the game to Fakenham. Gravett coming left getting the throw, Sophie Lubbock with the turn and dribbles the ball all the way into the box before being tackled by O’Neill. Sands racing on looking to get hold of the loose ball, can’t get a shot away, nor can Vicky Lubbock as the midfielder presses up into the box, Wroxham scrambling the ball to safety. 

Fakenham’s Sophie Lubbock

 Codman tackling Sophie Lubbock sets up a counter releasing Connell on the right to power her way to the by-line Rudkin coming out to close her down does well sliding in at her feet winning getting the goal kick. Smith at the back cutting out Rudd’s pass for Waters looking to steal in behind on the left. Curtis has picked up an injury for Fakenham looks to be a hamstring can’t continue the away side making their first change Megan Spurrell coming on to the right of midfield. Fouled as soon as she gets on the ball Fakenham have a free-kick on half way, Smith to play the ball up to Sophie Lubbock, brings it down 25 out passing it to Spurrell wide right, Rudd getting into her to tackle for Wroxham.

  The foul count beginning to add up for a few players on both sides, as yet now malice just a competitive affair. Gravett needed to help out at the back for Fakenham aswell as attack on the flank does well to get her head on the ball to cut out O’Neill’s diagonal ball intended to set Connell away on the wing. Fakenham rarely press Wroxham in front of their box but when they van get forwards in numbers that looks to be where they will get the most joy. Connell’s pace a threat, Gravett able to match it this time as she races back to put the ball out for a throw. 

  GOAL! Wroxham off a throw in on the left Waters takes the ball on her cross fired across the top of the area for Bullard, Gravett lunging in to block her shot the ball deflected behind for a corner on the right. The delivery sent in near post area skipping up off the surface met by Codman to twist her neck and send her header into the goal 3-0.

Jennifer Codman with Wroxham’s third goal

  Wroxham pressing their advantage 3 up midway through the first half win the ball straight from the restart coming left Connell wide right inside for Bullard, Hutchinson blocking her shot from 20 yards out. 

Fakenham’s Nicole Costin

  GOAL! Fakenham are unsettled losing possession inside their own half Wroxham pushing their midfielders on the ball rolled inside from the right into O’Neill, 25 plus yards out isn’t closed down puts her foot through the ball getting plenty of power behind it the ball sailing into the back of the net 4-0.

Zara O’Neill with the strike from distance (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Fakenham’s Vicky Lubbock winning the ball inside the Wroxham half pressing forwards on for Spurrell coming inside from the right goes back across the pitch to Gravett left who aims to play the ball on for Lubbock continuing her run through the middle, Tigi Robson getting across the midfielder to tackle send the ball behind for a corner kick. Fakenham make a bit of a mess of the resulting corner failing to get a cross in but from the resulting throw Gravett drags the ball inside before sending a decent strike wide across the face of the Wroxham goal.

Tigi Robson

  Robson pressing on from the back getting a favourable deflection off a 50/50 ball to run in behind the defence left side playing the pass on for Waters who skips inside into the box bearing down on the near post shots low, Hutchinson diving in to try and cut it out not putting off Rudkin beyond who is down sharply to make the stop. Russell with a shot from 30 yards out left side bouncing wide of goal. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Spurrell is getting on better on the right for Fakenham pressing high her challenge seeing the ball rebound off a defender with Sophie Lubbock alert to run onto it inside the box and strike it on the angle low towards goal, Cyan Fullbrook with little to do so far has it covered as she drops to claim. 

Fakenham’s Megan Spurrell

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham are thinking they might get some joy in attack they are hit with a further blow pushed up are hit on the counter attack as Waters running through the defence beats the offside trap to head for a one on one with the advancing Rudkin, Waters with Riches on her shoulder touching the ball around the keeper, going right towards the six yard box, Riches wrong side can’t get to the ball as Waters calmly sends it home for her 2nd of the game.

A first half brace for Wroxham’s Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Bradford with a robust challenge of Vicky Lubbock in the centre that sees the Fakenham midfielder down in some pain clutching her shoulder. A lengthy pause for treatment. Is unable to continue Fakenham forced into another change with Olivia Baker coming on late in the first half. From the resulting free-kick top of the centre circle Woods has only one intention to take on the shot hit well but wide. 

  Rudd with a quality diagonal pass to pick out Bullard on the move right side stretching the Fakenham defence her cross whipped in dangerous at the near post, Rudkin with the save of the half an excellent stop at close range… as the header is deflected goalwards off the back tracking Riches head (might be a pint owed there). Smith the latest Fakenham player to receive a heavy blow but is up after a moment’s recovery.

Chloe Gravett with Lauren Bullard

  Riches with a well timed tackle on Waters left of the box as Codman looks to send the ball on. Bradford bringing down Gravett on the right picks up a yellow card for persistent fouling. The free-kick wide on the left in the closing stages of the first half Costin on the ball goes for goal her attempt landing on the roof of the net. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 5-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

 

  Wroxham in control of the quarter final tie going into the half-time interval with a strong 5 goal lead. Have looked the stronger from the opening minute taking the lead and going on to score at regular intervals throughout the first half. A dominant display from the midfield getting the ball into the attacking three quickly with the pace up top causing Fakenham issues. Penned back inside their own half getting forwards has been a challenge the ball all to often coming back quickly. Alot of work for Fakenham to do if they are to have any chance of getting back into it. Wroxham though can control the pace of the 2nd half.

(photo credit Daniel Kett)

  No more changes for either side as they come out for the 2nd half. Spurrell and Baker coming on for Fakenham in the first half through injuries to Curtis and Vicky Lubbock. Fakenham to get the 2nd period underway the ball into Costin back to Hutchinson in defence lifted forwards to the left, cut out by Bradford for Wroxham. 

 Russell turning on the ball in midfield for Wroxham looking to play the ball into Waters up top, cut out well by Riches. Bullard out wide on the right seeing the ball deflected back into her path strikes it on the angle Rudkin back on her line collecting it into her gloves as it skips up in front of her. Sands into Costin on for Baker, Fakenham building a solid attack, Baker pushing forwards aiming for Gravett, Horn coming to close her down tackling the ball out for a throw. From the resulting throw on the left Baker sees it cross her body well hitting the pass in across the top of the D, Woods looking to turn onto it a strike as it bounces up off the surface, Horn throwing herself forwards to knock it out of her path.

Fakenham’s Olivia Baker

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham look to be getting some momentum going forwards they are hit with another sucker punch as Wroxham hit them on the counter the ball played on rapidly through the middle on for Connell central to run clear of the defence and run on for another one on one with the keeper, Rudkin diving in trying to get the ball Connell squeezing it past her and seeing it run on into the goal beyond to net her 2nd of the game 6-0.

  A pause in play as Gravett picks up a head injury, time taken to be accessed before being allowed to continue. Riches needs to make the ball hers at the back for Fakenham as Connell hooks one forwards for Waters to attack left of the D, the defender winning her clearance sending the ball wide for a throw. Waters gathering the ball on the left driving on stopped by Smith for Fakenham. Again Fakenham look a threat when pressing the Wroxham back line forcing errors Fullbrook’s kick out from the goal falling straight to Costin left of the box 25 yards out, drags her shot wide of the near post.

Becky Russell holding off Jemma Riches

Woods with the ball in an advanced position on the left for Fakenham sending an angled cross into the top of the area, a glancing header from Horn as she goes to clear the ball enough to deflect it away from Sophie Lubbock to her left. Wroxham make their first change of the game Codman coming off to be replaced by Lara Densley. Riches getting her foot in to tackle Connell top of the D.

Fakenham captain Jemma Riches (photo credit Daniel Kett)

GOAL! Wroxham further extend their lead as they build well on the left players getting on to support Waters the attacker striking the ball from the left corner of the area to see it race across the goal into the bottom corner to complete her hat-trick. 7-0.

A hat-trick for Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Wroxham 7 goals to the good both sides ringing the changes Fakenham bringing 3 off, Smith, Hutchinson and Costin all replaced, Hayley Marjoram, Tilly Betts and Holly Davies coming on. Wroxham with a double change Rudd and Bradford coming off the full backs replaced by Lauren Kett and Keela Olive. Wroxham winning a free-kick wide left Connell on the ball flighted into the near post claimed well by Rudkin with Waters lurking.

  Fakenham deflated continue to battle despite being on the back foot Wroxham with renewed energy pouring forwards Russell into the box sees her she blocked the ball ricocheting to Bullard wide right of goal inside the box scoops it across to Waters closing in on the near post she shot held well by Rudkin back on her line as she gets down to take it into her body.

Fakenham’s Chloe Gravett

  Gravett on the move with the ball releases Sophie Lubbock on half way, running for goal has alot of ground to cover and three Wroxham defenders converge to crowd the striker off the ball. 

  GOAL! Kett winning the ball at the back with a good ball forwards for Waters pulling away to the right her low drive in across the face of goal not held by Rudkin comes back off the post Connell on the follow up closing in back heeling the ball home from close range to net her hat-trick. 8-0.

Holly Connell nets a hat-trick for Wroxham

  Despite the goals racking up Riches is doing all she can to limit the damage at the back for Fakenham winning a number of vital balls is on hand once again to deny Waters inside the six yard box to concede the corner kick. The inswinging delivery plucked down well by Rudkin. Rudkin coming out to take the ball as she sees Waters turn on the left towards her box.

  GOAL! Waters quicker to release her shot moments later as she gets hold of the ball on the left to send her strike past the advancing keeper heading in at the near post, denied by Betts as the substitute blocks the ball on the line can’t do much about the follow up as the deflected ball comes straight to Bullard to curl the ball inside the left post 9-0.

  Bullard coming off then for Wroxham replaced by Ellie Overton. Wroxham leading by 9 goals know how it feels to be on the other end of that score line. On top this afternoon dominating the game a strong performance and look hungry for more goals as they come on at will. Gravett a willing runner for Fakenham looking to make something happen traveling with the ball going all the way into the box from the left cutting inside is clipped, but stays on her feet before the ball is blocked and cleared.

Ellie Overton with Sophie Lubbock

  Overton with a cross on the right from  deep position long into the box cut out by Riches falls back into midfield a shot struck from distance held by Rudkin. Wroxham winning a corner out on the right the ball fired in long across the six yard coming to Russell beyond the far post can’t angle her header back on target, taking a nick off a Fakenham body a 2nd corner awarded on the left. Again long to the far post Olive looking to get it down under control inside the six yard box is crowded off the ball before she can get a shot away.

Wroxham defender, Lauren Kett (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Gravett coming off for Fakenham, with Costin back on. Waters pulling away to the right leaning back as she strikes the ball sending her effort over the crossbar. Olive with the pass on for Waters, Riches in to tackle the ball out for a corner on the right.

 GOAL! Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham with a well struck shot. The ball played into the box is knocked down falling straight to Densley top of the area, behind it all the way the goal opens up before her as she puts her laces through the ball to send it into the corner of the net 10-0.

Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham

 Wroxham with a double switch bringing Bullard and Rudd back on for Waters and Robson. Riches blocking the ball at the back as Wroxham send players on. 

  GOAL! One way traffic late in the game Wroxham able to come on at will Fakenham battling in defence. Bullard with the ball on the right wide twisting off her marker to steal in behind to whip a cross into the six yard box, Olive running in at the near post meeting in sweetly on the volley to turn the ball into the back of the net 11-0.

Keela Olive with the volley to make it 11

  Nearly 12 as O’Neill’s strike from distance cones crashing down off the cross bar into the six yard box before being scrambled clear. Rudkin getting down to save on her goal line as Wroxham fire an angled strike in from the left the deflected ball coming to Rudd right of goal smashes her shot back in wide across the goal. 

  Marjoram with a neat bit of defending inside the box to deny Bullard a shot as she attacks from the right cleared for a corner. Spurrell breaking with the ball on the right in the final seconds can’t pick Sophie Lubbock out with the final pass as the final whistle blows.

Full time Wroxham Women 11-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

  Wroxham dominating the game from start to finish booking their place in the last 4 of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup where they will be joined by Norwich City Women, Mulbarton Belles Ladies and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women with be an interesting draw all of these sides have beaten the other on their day in the competition. Wroxham making the perfect start with a goal inside the opening minute adding a 2nd after 15 never let Fakenham settle pressing the ball high the midfield linking up well with the attackers to press the advantage leading 5-0 at the break any response Fakenham could muster 2nd half was quickly extinguished both Waters and Connell going on to score hat-tricks. Raining goals Fakenham were out played a dispiriting result but fought till the end. One result doesn’t defy a season and although it’ll hurt they can be proud of the progress they’ve made as a squad so far.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Not an easy call today by any means several contenders for Wroxham. For Fakenham the stand out player was their captain Jemma Riches without her interceptions and tackles there would have been further goals fought till the end. For Wroxham it was a clinical display that will do no end to boost confidence. Was a strong performance from the midfield trio, Jennifer Codman, Zara O’Neill and Becky Russell winning the ball getting forwards and setting up attacks. Lauren Bullard with a strong game out on the right. Comes down to the hat-trick scorers, Hannah Waters with her experience getting into some great positions and taking her goals well, ultimately Holly Connell’s pace is what caused Fakenham the most issues with her up front Wroxham had a ready outlet for the counter and linked up will with the midfield showing great composure for her goals.

  Never the easiest of report to write when one side has racked up a high score against another but that is football, you never know what’s going to happen. Great to be back at the FDC. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details and to Daniel Kett for the additional photo’s used in today’s report. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 23rd October

Women’s FA Cup

Back to the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday with a massive 88 ties scheduled across the country in 3rd Round Qualifying with the FAWNL Division One clubs entering the competition all vying for a place in the 1st Round Proper with the increased prize fund seeing the winning sides also recieving £4,000.

Today’s action comes from Trafford Park, my 2nd trip to Wroxham this weekend with Wroxham Women taking no Enfield Town Ladies.

Wroxham currently 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division, amongst the chasing pack looking to put pressure on leaders Luton Town Ladies. A mixed bag of results in the league having won 3 an lost 3, similar form for several clubs in what is shaping up to be another competitive season. Joe Simpson previously head coach at King’s Lynn in charge of Wroxham Women now has brought in several new recruits from his former club and ex-Norwich city youth players to build up the squad further adding Ellie Overton another from Norwich along with midfielder Jennifer Codman and vastly experienced a prolific striker, Hannah Waters who were part of the Wymondham Town Ladies side (now sadly withdrawn) that won the league and cup double (treble if you count the county cup) in the ERWFL last season.

Hannah Waters hitting the ground running at her new club joining Holly Connell as top goal scorer netting 5 goals. 3 of those goals coming in the last round of the Women’s FA Cup were Wroxham secured a 4-1 win away to Essex side Lawford Ladies. Captain Jess Horn who herself has 4 for the season the other goal scorer. Two more ex-Wymondham players joining up with Wroxham with defender Lauren Kett and attacker Hayley Kindred coming in to strengthen the squad further.

Enfield Town Ladies were for a long time an established side in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid. Coming to an end last season as they were relegated from FAWNL South East Division One in a season where 4 sides would ultimately go down. Unfortunate not to hold onto their status drop back down into regional football in the London and South East Premier Division, where they face a challenge to bounce back at the first attempt. A strong player pathway within the club with girls sides from U10 up with 3 women’s sides.

Dean Perrett who saw Harlow Town Ladies promoted from the ERWFL to the FAWNL the season before last coming in as first team manager for the new season as the club looks to try and bounce back at the 1st attempt. Never an easy task with just one side promoted from the 12 strong London and South East Regional Premier Division. Like the ERWFL is a competitive league with several strong sides. Enfield’s start to the season similar to Wroxham’s with 3 wins and 3 losses so far from 6 played. Karesha Iton leading goal scorer so far with 6 goals with Katie O’Leary on 5. A home win awarded to Enfield in the previous round over Edgwere & Kingsbury.

Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, has been lovely weather in October so far, today the exception with heavy rain forecast sweeping up from the south west. Enfield travelling up to Norfolk with rain accompanying them the whole way and with games getting called off elsewhere wondered if it would be a wasted journey. However the rain was light in Wroxham leading up to kick off the pitch with a bit slope unlikely to be affected. The rain starting to fall heavier with both teams out warming up retreated to the bar for a cup of tea. A wide grass pitch the clubhouse one side a small terraced stand behind one goal and a larger seated stand over on the far side this is where I headed for the game as a pose to my usual spot in anticipation of getting soaked. Indeed the heavens were to open up moments before the match was due to kick off the teams walking out to a deluge. 

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Breanna Rudd, Lucy Bradford, Jess Horn (C), Lauren Kett, Zara O’Neill, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell, Keela Olive, Lauren Bullard & Hannah Waters. Subs – Holly Walker, Holly Connell, Lucy Eagle, Lara Dengley, Summer Copland, Tiffany Forshaw & Hayley Kindred.

Enfield Town Ladies

 Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Taylor, Sheryce Slater, Danielle Smith, Beth Powell (C), Brionne Fowle Etta Sam, Olivia Syson, Etta Sam, Amy Nash, Leah Littlechild, Katie O’Leary & Karesha Iton. Subs – Maisie Wyer, Rebecca Evans & Lauren Cann.

A heavy downpour to start the game

Another advantage of taking advantage of the stand is the press box, has a table to set my notepad on which seeing as I’d managed to forget my usual notepad had to resort to my larger A4 fixtures & results pad. But at least I had an alternative. Lauren Kett in the starting line up today for Wroxham along with fellow ex-Wymondham teammates Jennifer Codman and Hannah Waters with Hayley Kindred on the bench. It’s Wroxham to get the tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Enfield lined up opposite in an all sky blue kit. Played back into midfield Enfield quick to move in close the ball down, Becky Russell getting it out long into the left channel for Hannah Waters to go after, full back Sheryce Slater getting across her to see the ball back to goalkeeper Grace Taylor who promptly launches the back over the stand and out of the ground.

Enfield’s Sheryce Slater with Wroxham’s Keela Olive

Enfield rushing in to press the ball in the early exchanges is all a bit fragmented the ball regularly out of play for a throw in. Etta Sam taking on possession 30 yards out running for the Wroxham area right of the D closed down looking for Katie O’Leary ahead of her as she is blocked off, wants a foul but instead Wroxham have a free-kick with O’Leary straying offside. Olivia Syson bringing the ball on for Enfield centrally looks to thread it through into the box for Karesha Iton pulling in behind from the left, Megan Lightfoot in the Wroxham goal rushing forwards able to claim it first. 

   Wroxham bring the ball on through the middle with pace Russell travelling the pass forwards helped on to Keela Olive 20 yards out left of D, goes to shoot her low effort running wide of the left post. Taylor sold a little short on the back pass inside her area has Waters racing in to try and charge her down as she goes to put her foot through the ball, deflects off the Wroxham attacker behind for a goalkick. Zara O’Neill with the ball in midfield for Wroxham comes on right side support from Lauren Bullard and Lucy Bradford out wide the cross flashed in to the top of the area cut out by Enfield’s Brionne Fowle play brought back though with a Wroxham foul spotted in the build up.

Enfield’s Brionne Fowle

 A slick playing surface now with the heavy rain falling O’Neill on for Russell through the middle for Wroxham clipped forwards to Waters pulling left, lays it back up the line for Breanna Rudd, her crossfield pass intercepted by Syson played into Nash who picks out Sam as the visitors storm forwards, Sam on the right putting it into the area for Iton wide of goal, Kett comes sliding in with a committed challenge to win the ball. Iton looking to get across the Wroxham back line force an opening looking to get into the area take a shot attacking right her cross cut out cleared Wroxham look to get on the counter the ball on the left Waters the target, Sam tracking back getting hold of the ball and winning the foul as her shirt is pulled trying to bring the ball forwards.

Wroxham defender, Lauren Kett

  Wroxham winning a corner on the right, played in near post Kett the target in low gets it back to the corner taker, flashed back in towards goal on the angle Taylor at full stretch diving forwards to push the ball out of her box, Wroxham sending a shot back in the ball blocked. Russell coming forwards for Wroxham with Waters pulling wide left recieving the ball plays it back inside for Russell to shoot 20 yards out her strike blocked then, Syson comes sliding in win the ball deny her a 2nd opportunity. 

Wroxham’s Becky Russell with Enfield’s Leah Littlechild

   Iton needing the trainer on, a pause in play allowed back on as a drop ball resumes play, Enfield getting forwards on the left Leah Littlechild with Nash on through the middle with Iton ahead of them the cross fired into the area intercepted by Wroxham captain Jess Horn. The wet grass is great for sliding tackles and both sides have players that are enjoying them. Enfield though win a free-kick out wide on the left. A good delivery played into the box, Fowle getting her head on it, can’t direct her header on target wide for a goal kick. 

   Enfield putting pressure on the Wroxham defence getting players up and around the 18 yard box, a pass through into Iton’s feet inside the area, turns to shoot, Kett throwing herself across her to charge down the ball, frantically Wroxham look to get the loose ball away right of the D Enfield play it back into the area, blocked once again before a shot is put in on goal low from 20 yards, Lightfoot right behind it to gather safely. 

Kett putting in some bold but will timed sliding challenges for Wroxham, denying Sam as the Enfield midfielder looks to jink her way into the area. 20 minutes on the clock Enfield gathering momentum getting players forwards well intercepting a good share of passes as Wroxham look to get the ball into midfield. Nash bursting into the left channel slowed down by Bradford, the ball running loose to the by-line Nash racing onto it to fire a cross into the six yard box cleared by Horn. The ball cleared long to the right Waters going after it feeding the pass inside for Olive to strike wide from 20 yards.

Enfield’s Amy Nash

  GOAL! Enfield coming on with the ball Nash moving forwards left channel has Iton ahead of her rolls the ball forwards, Iton getting hold of it to shoot from the angle sending a chipped shot from 25 yards over the keeper into the back corner of the net 0-1.

Karesha Iton with the strike to fire Enfield into the lead

  The visitors on the front foot taking the game to Wroxham, Iton on the right off a throw in turning inside driving a cross/shot into the centre of the six yard box the defence blocking in front of the keeper, O’Leary first to the loose ball looking to force her way into the box her run blocked off. Penned back Wroxham look to clear the ball long for Waters, Bullard up with her through the middle Waters infield ball looking for her 20 yards out is just behind Bullard allowing Enfield captain Beth Powell the opportunity to clear. 

Wroxham striker, Hannah Waters

 Rudd into space on the left for Wroxham plays the infield pass into Codman 30 yards out, lining up a shot Fowle reacts well to rush in to put the block in. Wroxham encouraged come forwards apply a bit of pressure of their own out on the right the cross inside to Olive 20 yards out her low strike in gathered by Taylor. The ball moved quickly upfield into Iton out on the right turns inside shaping to curl a shot in towards goal her effort block the Enfield bench going up to appeal they think with a hand but nothing doing.

Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

   Wroxham give the ball away carelessly in midfield, Sam latching onto it breaking forwards looking to capitalise, her shirt pulled gets the free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out. O’Leary over it. Goes for goal getting the ball up and over the wall dropping Lightfoot back on her line palming the ball down to save and smothering it at her near post before Iton can pounce on the follow up. The rain having slowed to a drizzle stopping completely.

  Wroxham getting up on the right Bullard to the by-line cutting the ball back to the top of the area for Olive to hit right of the D, Taylor throwing herself cross to make the save the ball away for a corner on the right. Once again Kett the target before the near post in low looking to turn and put it across goal to be attacked Slater gets her head on the cross the turn it behind for a 2nd corner. In near side again Enfield are awarded to free-kick this time around. 

Wroxham’s Keela Olive

  Enfield are the livelier side winning the ball more often than not in midfield and looking to get forwards Sam and O’Leary looking to combine on the right, Rudd sliding in on O’Leary to put the ball out for a throw. Horn clearing the ball for a corner inside her box to the left as Nash looks to play O’Leary in. The corner dealt with Wroxham look to counter get players forwards rapidly Olive up to Waters who tracks from the left into the box looking looking to lay it off for Bullard moving across her, Powell in to defend on Bullard then Fowle sliding deny Waters from shooting the ball deflected back to the keeper to clear. 

In stark contrast to the heavy rain at the start of the game the 1st half draws to a close with the pitch bathed in bright sunlight. Kett with another strong challenge to deny Iton up the other end. Sam comes on with Nash right channel plays it inside looking for Iton making a run inside the box, intercepted by Kett. Enfield finishing the half strong Syson with the ball in the middle out wide to Iton hugging the right wing her cross fired into the area cut out by Horn, Enfield quick to regain possession back with Syson into O’Leary out to Iton wide right her cross put in claimed into her mid-riff by Lightfoot. Looks to get the throw out quickly get Wroxham on the move.

Enfield’s Etta Sam

  The ball is lost a misplaced pass on the left seeing Iton steal in behind the defence to charge into the area, Kett the last defender getting a cross to try and put in a last gasp block Iton evades her challenge to move on towards goal, Lightfoot closing her down staying big making the blocking save as Iton pulls the trigger.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Megan Lightfoot

 A frustrating half for Wroxham passes not finding their mark Enfield winning a good portion of interceptions in the middle turning play around quickly meaning the ball not up with the hosts attackers as much as they would like. Enfield have a player down late in the first half Fowle looks to have picked up an injury and can’t continue on in her place Maisie Wyer. 

 

 Wroxham come left late in the half Olive on for Waters looks to set up he return pass, Syson though coming back to defend for Enfield. Russell moving to the right for Wroxham getting on with the ball before delivering a cross into the area cleared by Powell.   

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Enfield Town Ladies

  The 1st half ending in bright sunshine it’s Enfield who head into the changing rooms the happiest leading the game by a single goal at the break. Not much between the side at the start Enfield looking the stronger as the half wore on getting players up the pitch and winning the ball back high up to turn play around. Creating a number of chances some heroic blocks and challenges denying them a further goal. A well struck shot from Karesha Iton 20 minutes in the difference. Wroxham struggling to get the ball up to their attackers at times have had a few opportunities and with just a single goal in it far from out of the tie.

  Appear to be no changes 2nd half. The FA Women’s Cup only allowing 3 substitutes in regular play. The sun disappearing as clouds roll back in for the 2nd half dry nonetheless the teams out before the officials keen to get going again. Enfield with the kick off 2nd half the ball into midfield played out to the left for Littlechild, Horn stepping in to head the ball away for Wroxham. The hosts looking to put some pressure on at the start of the 2nd half Bullard bringing the ball on looking to put Waters through on halfway with the Enfield defence pushed up get their line right to catch Waters offside.

   Enfield get on the counter attack the ball clipped out to Sam on the right wide her cross lifted into the box, intercepted by Codman tracking back from midfield the ball crashed behind for a corner kick. The delivery put into O’Leary just inside the box central, puts her foot through the ball looking for the opposite side runs wide of the post.

 Horn plays the ball long to Bullard on the right looks to play a give and go with Russell in the middle, Smith getting across to Bullard to cut out the return ball. The ball coming inside to Olive off the resulting throw left of the D her strike riding Taylor well positioned behind it all the way. Slater coming on with the ball well from the back for Enfield sends it on into the eft channel for O’Leary running in behind between full back ad centre back that side turns inside into the box top corner looks to shoot her curling ball presented straight to the keeper.

Wroxham’s Jennifer Codman

  Enfield making a good start to the 2nd half, Littlechild coming forwards well on the left into space to receive the ball with O’Leary, Syson and Iton all providing good support. Olive booked for a foul wide on the right for Enfield. Is the play to head clear as the ball is lifted in near post area. Wyer regaining possession the pass out to Littlechild on the left her shot wide of the near post for a goal kick. 

Wroxham captain Jess Horn

   Sam wide on the right for Enfield crossing into the box Horn with great defensive work to take the ball off the head of Littlechild attacking the near post. The hosts making a change on the hour with Codman the player coming off on comes Lara Dengley. Horn at the back for Wroxham up to Bullard goes wide with her pass to Bradford up on the right wing, puts it into the box for Dengley closing in on the by-line right of goal her cross played in claimed by Taylor. 

  O’Leary giving away a free-kick out wide on the right. Wroxham bringing players up Russell over it is a teasing ball lifted into the area put across the penalty spot Kett running clear of her marker across it getting a touch deflecting the ball goalwards a good chance by frustratingly straight at the keeper. Taylor safely claiming it.

Lauren Kett with a chance to equalise for Wroxham

  Close to scoring at one end Wroxham are in danger of conceding up the other as Taylor puts her foot through the ball sending it long up field bouncing through the middle, Horn under pressure from Iton trying to shield the ball for her advancing keeper to come claim, defender and goalkeeper coming together as the ball pops loose to the right, Iton can’t reach it as Kett comes hurtling back to smash the ball away for a corner kick. Horn needing a spot of treatment looks uncomfortable as play resumes. Enfield with bodies in the box for the corner from the right goes long half cleared by Bradford at the far post O’Leary steals in on the ball top of the area tries to lay it into the feet of Syson right of goal she stabs a shot in low hasn’t the power to trouble Lightfoot. 

 GOAL! Enfield double their lead midway through the 2nd half Slater playing the ball long from the back into Littlechild attacking on the left gets forwards playing a squared ball into the box for O’Leary who lifts a cross into the six yard box for Iton who swivels superbly off her marker to bury her shot into the top corner of the net 0-2. 

Karesha Iton doubles Enfield’s lead

  A further blow for Wroxham after conceding a 2nd goal as they lose their captain to injury Horn having picked up a knock coming off along with Olive as they make a double change bringing on Holly Connell and Hayley Kindred. Littlechild latching onto a poor ball put back into the box for O’Leary. Dengley getting ack at her to defend for Wroxham. 

  Russell looking to carry the ball forwards for Wroxham attacking left rides a strong challenge the advantage played as Bullard takes it on inside the box looks to put it back to Russell inside the D cut out, Dengley onto the loose ball 20 yards out her shot low not troubling Taylor who has been solid all game. The visitors making a change as the game moves into the final 15 minutes Sam coming off for Lauren Cann. 

  Taylor with the save of the match albeit off her own miscue as the Enfield goalkeeper presents the ball straight to Waters off a back pass from Slater. Waters shifting across the D wrapping her foot around the ball hit with venom rising, Taylor back peddling throwing herself out to her left to save pushing the ball out to the right corner of the area put back across the area for O’Neill to lift a shot up towards goal. Taylor taking the catch high above her head. 

Enfield goalkeeper, Grace Taylor

  Littlechild winning a corner for Enfield on the left played in near post O’Leary with the header on, Cann unable to get a touch far post. Littlechild full of energy late in the game has Syson up with her on the left rolls the ball on, Connell tracking back with Syson getting a foot in to prod the ball behind for a corner. Taken short before being played in across the six yard box, O’Leary attempting the header far post wide. Enfield with a strong 2nd half performance coming on well Syson sending a shot over from 20 yards out. 

Karesha Iton with Wroxham’s Zara O’Neill

  Powell sliding in to take the ball away from Waters as she breaks into the box from the right, Waters accidentally standing on the defenders leg as she makes the challenge leaving Powell in some discomfort but okay to continue. Wroxham haven’t given up keep looking to get players on with the clock ticking down looking for a goal Connell right off a crossfield pas from O’Neill getting the the by-line before crossing. As has been the case so often can only pick out Taylor in the Enfield goal. 

  Iton doing most of her attacking through the middle 2nd half picking up the ball and driving at the Wroxham defence jinking left then right before unleashing a shot 25 yards out. Lightfoot right behind the ball to make the save. O’Leary recieving the ball top of the area left side from a diagonal pass looking to find the top corner with her strike lets out a cry of frustration instead as she only picks out the keeper. The game moving into stoppage time Enfield with their 3rd change Nash coming off for Rebecca Evans. The visitors hit Wroxham on the break Littlechild bursting down the left flashing a cross into the six yard box Syson there central up trying to meet the header can’t quite get there.

 GOAL! A 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the icing on the cake for Enfield as Evans wins the ball back in midfield plays it on for Syson right channel 25 yards out shifts the ball onto her left foot and strikes her shot in over the keeper at the near post 0-3.

Enfield’s Olivia Syson

  Enfield finishing the game strongly getting players on Cann with the ball moving inside from the right to line up a shot driven in low Lightfoot down to stop it the ball squirming out of her grasp dribbles slowly wide of her near post for a corner kick. A shot from the set-piece resulting in a goal kick. 

Full time Wroxham Women 0-3 Enfield Town Ladies

  Enfield win the game 3-0 to advance to the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup. A strong 2nd half performance to build on the narrow lead they had secured at half-time. That goal coming from Karesha Iton, she went on to score a superb 2nd midway through the 2nd half, moment after Wroxham had had their best chance of the game to level the scores. Wroxham frustrated were never out of the tie the 3rd goal coming late in stoppage time had opportunities to score just couldn’t take one Grace Taylor proving a strong final hurdle to clear for Enfield. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Left the game thinking I knew who I’d pick but like to go through the notes just to confirm. Several performances to mention first though. For Wroxham, Lauren Kett had a brilliant debut with some excellent last ditch and well time tackles plus carrying a threat when coming forwards. Likewise Jess Horn make some vital challenges and interceptions. Becky Russell looking to get the game going for the hosts with some strong runs from midfield. A solid team performance from Enfield working hard to win the ball take the game to their opponents. Olivia Syson strong in the middle getting forwards with the ball feeding it into the attacking players scoring an excellent goal. The two from Karesha Iton weren’t bad either. Strong on the ball moving about the back line to get into good positions. Leah Littlechild with a strong game on the left particularly 2nd half getting forwards. The award though goes to Enfield’s goalkeeper, Grace Taylor. Was a colossus throughout the game frustrating Wroxham all game with some excellent positioning and quality saves to ensure a clean sheet.

  An enjoyable cup tie despite the weather, but then that only added to the drama. A bigger notepad means I write more and I write enough notes as it is so mustn’t leave it at home again. Good to see Enfield again interested in seeing how they ae getting on now they’ve drifted away from the leagues covered by Women’s Football East hope to see them back soon and am keen to see how they do this season. My thanks to both sides for their help and hospitality today. Looking forward to the draw for the 1st Round Proper.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Needham Market Women

Sunday 28th August

ERWFL Premier Division

 A short trip to Trafford Park this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier Division. Wroxham Women who made a winning start to their season last Sunday hosting newly promoted Needham Market Women.

 The ERWFL Premier Division once again looking strong with a number of sides having the title in their sights, with Harlow Town Ladies and Stevenage FC Women looking to bounce back to the FAWNL straight away after suffering relegation last season. The 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid with plenty of talented players as the game continues to grow. Often competitve and exciting to watch.

 Wroxham Women now a well established part of the Wroxham footballing family with ambitions to attain promotion to the FAWNL. A frustrating season to say the least during last years campaign. Getting off to a blistering start winning their opening 5 games, then the wheels came off and a difficult run of 4 straight losses followed before a draw and a lengthy period through the end of November into the New Year without a game. 2023 bringing the return to form the squad knew they were capable of winning 7 of their last 8 games aswell as reaching the final of the League Cup. Eventually finishing 4th a case of what might have been for the lull cost them. Manager Rebecca Burton standing down at the end of the season.

 Wroxham bringing in Joe Simpson as their new manager. At the club previously as coach the former King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager bringing Burton back as his assistant with another for King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager, Shelley Stewart part of the coaching team. Charlotte Rose in as strength and conditioning coach with goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook taking on a player/coach role. Several changes within the player squad too with players moving on or retiring, most notably striker, Grace Birchall a talisman for the club up front scoring 66 goals in 42 appearances. Simpson bringing in a number of news faces to the squad. Reuniting with a trio of former King’s Lynn players, Tiffany Forshaw bringing a wealth of experience to the club can operate anywhere through the spine of the team. Mary-Ann Hoy returning to Wroxham from King’s Lynn too along with midfield talent Zara O’Neill. 

  Saw Lucy Eagle first in action for Leiston St Margarets Ladies and has starred in attack for a number of county league sides since most recently Bungay Town Ladies, making to jump up to the fifth tier this campaign looking to test herself. Paige Shorten is another player with huge experience back playing after coaching with Ipswich Town Women. Plus a quartet of young players from Norwich City’s Player Pathway, Lucy Bradford, Lara Densley, Keela Olive and Breana Rudd.

Needham Market Women achieving promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division for the 1st time. In a very short space of time the club has become one of the leading lights for women’s football in Suffolk looking to emulate the counties leading side Ipswich Town Women in it’s growth and success. Joining the ERWFL in the 2018/19 season no doubt the Covid pandemic has stalled the clubs progress. A full season played a last in 2021/22, Needham Market were dominant from start to finish clinching the Division One North title gaining promotion along side fellow Suffolk rivals AFC Sudbury Women won won Division One South. The step up to the 5th tier of the women’s pyramid where standards go up a notch and a good test for an ambitious club looking to push itself. Scored plenty of goals last season, with Lina Nagib top scorer netting 26 goals, with Molly Hall, Lois Balfour and Ellie Rossiter scoring 21, 17 and 16 respectfully.

  An academy and 2nd team backing up the first team, manager Warren Lewis-Claxton has added a number of experienced former Ipswich players to the ranks such as goalkeeper, Danielle Clarke, Ellie Rossiter, Nicole Pannifer, Molly Hall and Paige Wakefield in recent seasons, has added a further two defenders this season in Lindsey Cooper and Eva Hubbard aswell as a number of promising young players such as Poppy Nunn and goalkeeper, Emily Cockrill. also joining aling with Charlotte McGrath who was most recently at Abingdon. Started life in the ERWFL Premier Division with a trip to Haringey Borough the hosts coming away with a 4-3 win.

  Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, a large grass pitch offering plenty of width, not the most even of playing surfaces with a distinct slope nevertheless in great condition. Viewing all round. A covered stand on one side of the pitch. The bar and clubhouse serving hot food and drinks on the other. Great weather for the match bright with a little cloud cover and a slight breeze.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd, Tigi Robson, Jess Horn (C), Zara O’Neill, Becky Russell, Holly Connell, Keela Olive, Lucy Eagle & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Cyan Fullbrook, Lara Densley, Summer Copland & Ellie Overton & Megan Rose.

Needham Market Women

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Emily Cockrill, Niamh Thomas, Eva Hubbard, Ele Catchpole, Lindsey Cooper, Abbie Fisher, Leilah Hanson, Mia Etheridge, Ellie Rossiter, Jo Brawn & Lois Balfour (C). Subs – Charlotte McGrath, Poppy Nunn, Lina Nagib & Paige Wakefield.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Two goalkeepers making their debuts today with Megan Lightfoot in goal for Wroxham. Danielle Clarke picking up an injury for Needham Market away to Haringey Borough last Sunday a blow, in comes Emily Cockrill recently joined from Kesgrave Kestrals. Lindsey Cooper making her competitive debut too for the visitors. Six more from Wroxham’s starting line-up making thier home debuts, Tiffany Forshaw, Lucy Eagle, Keela Olive, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd and Zara O’Neill. It’s Wroxham to get the game under way kicking off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical stripped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Needham Market lined up opposite in their away colours, yellow shirts and socks with black shorts. Wroxham look to send the ball on out to the left, Needham Market full back, Niamh Thomas can let the ball run on into the area for Cockrill to get an early feel of the ball.

A frantic start the ball hit back and forth between midfield and defensive Needham Market pushing  up, Wroxham manage to lift a pass over the top into the right channel for Eagle to run onto 25 yards out looks to take on the early strike, isn’t quite set stretching a little too much as she connects with the ball dragging it inside wide across the area. Leilah Hanson sending the ball on through the middle for Needham Market into the feet of captain and attacker Lois Balfour, she turns well on the ball spinning the pass out to Jo Brawn wide left, looking to take the ball on Wroxham full back Lucy Braford gets across to make the challenge the ball out for a throw in.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford

  A wide pitch play getting drawn to one side of the pitch space to exploit if the pass can be seen. Hubbard well aware of that as she bombs on down the left taking the ball on reaching the penalty area squares an inviting ball inside, dealt with by Wroxham captain, Jess Horn her clearance latched on in midfield a strike from distance fizzed back in, blocked. Wroxham break on their left the ball fed up the line rapidly, on for Forshaw bursting into the box, takes on the shot striking a low ball in on the angle, Cockrill closing the gap making a good blocking save. 

Needham Market’s Niamh Thomas

Needham Market attack left Hubbard racing up the line feeding the ball on for Balfour peeling into the channel, Horn getting across to put in the tackle before she can turn into the box. Forshaw looking to play off the last defender break in behind for Wroxham as the midfield work the ball into her, through to attack the box, her attack halted by the offside flag, a close call. Cockrill comes a long way out of her area to deal with the danger as Forshaw gives chase to a ball lifted into the right channel. Cockrill putting the ball into Hubbard the defender put under pressure by Forshaw who wins Wroxham a throw high up the pitch. 

Needham Market’s, Eva Hubbard

 Both sides looking to get the ball out from the back with pace into midfield, Needham Market have it on the left played into Hanson the Fisher as they go crossfield to Rossiter bursting forwards wide out on the wing her cross fired into the area collected by Lightfoot at her near post. An intriguing contest shaping up with 15 minutes gone. O’Neill getting hold of the ball in the middle for Wroxham plays it to Rudd on the left plays the ball on for Forshaw in attack, can’t reach it but is willing to pressure the defence looking to force an error, the result a goal kick this time. The hosts getting numbers forwards well pushing Needham Market’s defence back the release for the visitors Hubbard on the left as she looks to run into space. 

Ellie Rossiter with Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

 Hubbard turning inside with the ball plays a great diagonal ball forwards, a vital interception from Horn, or Brawn is in clear to attack the goal. Hanson in the middle sends the pass out to Thomas right getting the return pass as she moves forwards her cross into the box on the angle claimed well by Lightfoot. Hubbard continuing to cause problems on the left with the ball for Needham Market sends it on for Brawn ahead of her moving inside to take on the return pass driving for the box, Horn lunging in to make the tackle to dispossess her.

Wroxham captain, Jess Horn

  Keela Olive getting forwards with the ball for Wroxham right side on for Eagle her early diagonal ball into the area finding Forshaw out beyond the far post, controlling the ball sees Russell coming on lays the ball back into her path the midfielders cross/shot charged down by Cooper in the Needham Market defence. Wroxham retain possession on the left getting bodies forwards well the ball lofted back into the area Holly Connell beating her marker getting the ball down turning towards goal shooting low, Cockrill with a superb save getting down smartly blocking with her thigh. 

Keela Olive looking to get hold of the ball for Wroxham

 Pressure mounting from Wroxham keeping the ball in the final 3rd played out right a player brought down right on the edge of the box a free kick on the line level with the six yard line, Russell to play it into the area, Mia Etheridge up to make the defensive header clearing for Needham Market the ball falling to Wroxham’s Olive 25 yards out her 1st time shot blocked. A corner won on the right for Wroxham short between Connell and Russell the cross put into the area cleared. Another close call with the flag to deny Forshaw anyone chance on goal as she is almost put in by Eagle’s fine diagonal ball as she and Russell exchange passes on the right. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Forshaw looking the goal threat for Wroxham, Russell looking to thread a pass through for her to attack, Cockrill with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Brawn comes left with the ball, Bradford back on her to slow her down holds it up well as Hubbard racing forwards in support takes the ball on in behind to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. The delivery in to the near post doesn’t get past Horn, heading clear.

  Hubbard breaks clear on the left as Needham Market press the ball high, runs into the box, Connell getting back at her to challenge the ball turned off her for a corner kick. Payed in the outcome the same Horn winning the header at the near post. Into the final 15 minutes of the half few clear cut chances as of yet both sides putting alot in to press the ball. Brawn picking the ball up inside the Wroxham half looks to push on driving forwards almost reaching the area before getting outnumbers still managing to squeeze the ball back into the path of Fisher 30 yards out her wild strike landing wide of the mark. A pause in play with Russell down recieving treatment both sides going to the bench for instructions.

 GOAL! Play resumes Needham Market having possession out wide right, played inside to Brawn inside the area looks to attack, Lightfoot coming appears to hesitate, Brawn capitalising beating her to the ball stabbing it past her to open the scoring 0-1. 

Jo Brawn opens the scoring for Needham Market

  Needham Market looking sharper after the break in play getting the lead and going on the attack breaking from a goal-kick Brawn on the left with Hubbard taking the ball on in behind her, Horn needing to come round on the cover to clear the ball for a corner. Eagle taking a heavy knock as she runs into traffic in the middle. Needs a moment but is okay to continue. Etheridge getting on the ball through the middle for Needham Market puts the pass forwards for Balfour as she looks to move out into the channel, Horn getting in to tackle her. 

 Hubbard back to defend intercepting a diagonal pass from O’Neill as she looks to release Connell on the right. Catchpole winning the header top of her area as Wroxham get up on the left cross the ball in. The game moving into stoppage time Wroxham mounting a late attack the ball fed on for Forshaw left channel, Cockrill coming to close her down with her defence exposed, Forshaw cleverly taking the ball around the keeper as she slides in commit, left bearing down on goal shoots low, Catchpole sliding in making the last ditch defensive block the ball out to the far post Catchpole scrambling back to her feet to get to Forshaw before she gets a 2nd bite at goal lunging in to block again the ball rebounding out of the area falls to Olive 25 yards out puts her foot through the ball looking to smash it home, Cockrill recovering her position grateful to get her gloves up pluck the ball down to safety. One last corner for Wroxham to end the half put into the area successfully defending as the whistle blows.  

Needham Market defender Ele Catchpole with a crucial double block at te end of the 1st half

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Needham Market Women

  Needham Market leading by a single goal at the break. A close contest an intriguing watch the sides evenly matched. The result could have easily been the reverse at half-time. Cockrill making 2 superb saves with Catchpole making a huge block on the stroke of half-time. Jo Brawn’s goal the difference is still very much game on going into the 2nd half. A change at half-time for Wroxham with cyan Fullbrook on in goal for Lightfoot. Needham Market getting the 2nd half underway unchanged.

 

  The ball played out to Wroxham’s left, Bradford winning it for the hosts. Wroxham looking to make a busy start take the game to Needham Market at the start of the 2nd half, Rudd left sending the ball crossfield into Olive, back to Russell, Etheridge out to block her pass collecting the ball in the face a painful knock, play stopped for treatment. O’Neill playing the ball left to Rudd, pressured into playing the ball back to her centre backs Horn an Robson likewise under pressure as Etheridge hustles getting hold of the ball to release Rossiter into a gap on the right her cross into the area caught cleanly by Fullbrook. 

Wroxham’s Zara O’Neill

 Catchpole with a firm defensive clearance that has Rossiter giving chase to the ball on the right, crosses as she reaches the by-line but Fullbrook points out the ball was already gone, the assistant agrees. A corner for Needham Market on the right as Rossiter gets forwards well. As in the first half the delivery only finding Horn defending the near post area. Needham Market gaining momentum more on the right than the left with Thomas getting on to support Rossiter. Another corner on the right fired in near post Horn turning it out of the area, Needham Market have players ready to close down outside the area a shot struck in through bodies looks like it might be creeping inside the post, Fullbrook scrambling to get back to it scooping a glove under the ball enough to turn it wide for a corner on the left.

 Another pause in play with Etheridge down off the ball needing treatment, needs to come off this time with Needham Market bringing on Charlotte McGrath. 20 minutes played in the 2nd half remains a very tight and edgy affair. Needham Market taking the game to Wroxham keeping them busy inside their own half keeping Forshaw off the ball. Rossiter taking the ball on right side wrapping her foot around it to send the cross into the area, Horn heading clear for Wroxham. Another player down this time for Wroxham, Eagle a willing runner looking to drive on with the ball has been clattered a few time for her efforts. Wroxham making a double switch Eagle coming off, so too Rudd to be replaced by Lara Densley and Ellie Overton. Robson moving to the left of defence. 

 Overton’s first touch very close to being an own goal as Needham Market have a throw high on the right, Thomas putting it on for Hanson to head forwards for Rossiter on the wing her cross fired into the six yard box almost finding Balfour free at the near post, hitting Overton behind is narrowly wide for the corner. Needham Market with the momentum getting players forwards, Catchpole and Cooper looking solid in the centre of defence, Wroxham lacking numbers when they can break Connell right her cross claimed by Cockrill. Another double change for Wroxham with Megan Rose joining the back line on for Bradford. and Summer Copland on up top for Olive.

Needham Market captain, Lois Balfour

  Russell winning the ball back in the middle for Wroxham lays it forwards for Forshaw left of the  turns well in behind, Cooper quick to adjust getting back at her to deny the shot. Needham Market continue to exploit Rossiter on the right getting a throw high Rossiter’s cross in is uncharacteristically missed by Horn at the near post catching Brawn behind her off guard her touch off her hip turning the ball goalwards can’t react before Fullbrook snatches it up into her gloves. Needham Market bring Lina Nagib on with 10 minutes of regular time left.

Ellie Rossiter

  Rose winning it well at the back for Wroxham lifting the pass long for Connell 25 yards out an angled shot in rising Cockrill gloves it down to claim on the bounce. Rossiter and Robson enjoying a good battle now as Wroxham look to limit the balls coming into their box from the right. All good natured however Rossiter down with cramp, Robson helping her stretch. Catchpole winning the ball at the back well for Needham Market plays a good ball through for Balfour in attack, Rose getting on her shoulder to defend for Wroxham. Catchpole defending on Forshaw as O’Neill looks to find her with the pass up top. Forshaw coming off now with Eagle being sent back on to join the attack. A one two between Copland and Robson on the left as the defender gets forwards taking on the strike from distance drops wide. 

Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

 Wroxham looking to put some urgency into their play as they look to find a goal with the clock running down. Connell up with Eagle and Russell moving towards the Needham Market box, Fisher taking back to put the tackle in on Russell to regain possession. Rossiter coming off for Needham Market with Etheridge returning to the action, Hubbard quieter in the 2nd half making fewer forward runs nevertheless has plenty left in the tank as she cuts inside from the wing 25 yards out driving for the box Horn stepping out to block her run win back the ball. Nagib getting on the ball right for Needham Market driving up the line holding the ball up Thomas arriving to support her angled ball into the area dealt with by Rose. 

 

  Olive back on for Wroxham with the game heading for stoppage time, plenty of it to be played with the pauses for injuries. Olive taking the ball on from O’Neill in the middle forwards into Copland, Catchpole defending for Needham Market the ball running back to Olive to latch onto 25 yards out drags her volleyed effort wide. Robson off for Wroxham as they throw Forshaw back on. O’Neill with the diagonal ball out to Eagle on the right, brings it down well, striking the shot on the angle from distance frustrated as she only picks out the goalkeeper at the near post.

  Wroxham’s Olive steals onto the ball left side, her cross squared into the area but a heavy touch from Forshaw allows Cooper to clear out into the middle O’Neill getting hold of it 30 plus yards out her shot dipping lands on the roof of the net. A clash of heads between Densley and Thomas sees another break in play both physio’s racing on. No chances taken with Densley coming off for Wroxham. Poppy Nunn and Paige Wakefield also coming on for Needham Market Jo Brawn one of the players off.

Lina Nagib bringing the ball forwards for Needham Market

  GOAL! Deep into stoppage time Needham market regaining the ball on the right wing Wakefield taking it on cleverly winning a free-kick late in the game. Inside the Wroxham half taken quickly with Fisher running into a gap on the right side taking the ball to the top of the area before delivering a looping cross in towards the near post, put on a plate for Balfour drifting in unmarked to coolly nod down into the back of the net to seal the 3 points 0-2.

Lois Balfour centre making it 2-0 to Needham Market late in the game

  The 2nd goal scored in the 96th minute with another 4 minutes of stoppage time to play Needham Market with their tails up chasing the ball down looking to keep it inside Wroxham’s half . Nagib with Fisher looking to hold it up on the right winning a corner kick off Horn, the ball into the six yard box cleared as the final whistle blows, Needham Market celebrate their first ever win in the ERWFL Premier Division.

Full time Wroxham Women 0-2 Needham Market Women

 The late late goal from Lois Balfour sealing the win for Needham Market in what proved to be a tight and intriguing contest between the 2 sides. Giving little away the result could well have gone either way and neither would have complained with a draw. As it was Needham Market scored the all important goals and were strong in defence to limit Wroxham’s chances especially in the 2nd half. Even for large parts the game won on small margins the wins you have to work hard for are always the best. Needham Market took the game to Wroxham 2nd half and in doing so limited the impact their attackers had up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Boy this is a tough one and it is difficult to name a clear winner. Strong performances form both sides, with both looking solid as a unit. Jess Horn won so much at the back for Wroxham whilst Tigi Robson beside her was strong. Tiffany Forshaw making some intelligent runs in behind getting into the box unlucky not to score 1st half. That largely down to Emily Cockrill in goal an impressive debut between the sticks for Needham Market with two fine saves. Ele Catchpole too in defence with some strong defensive wins. Eva Hubbard with her managing running down the flank. The award though goes to Ellie Rossiter took the game to Wroxham 2nd half with so powerful runs getting into some great positions and delivering some dangerous crosses.

 Another entertaining game for the ERWFL Premier Division, never disappoints and Needham Market are another strong addition to it’s ranks. Likewise Wroxham a new look side with a mixture of experience and youth, all the young players impressing will only get better as they play regularly at this level. As usual my thanks to both teams for their help with the team details today especially as I have been experiencing some technical difficulties. Much appreciated. Next up a derby double for the FAWNL a busy week ahead but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Wroxham Women v Wymondham Town Ladies

Sunday 8th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Another trip into Suffolk this Sunday for another final event this time from the ERWFL holding its League Cup Final at Haverhill Rovers FC contested between two Norfolk sides this season as Wroxham Women take on Premier Division Champions, Wymondham Town Ladies aiming to make it a league and cup double.

Today’s prize

Today’s League Cup Final will be the last in charge for Wroxham Women manager, Rebecca Burton as she stands down from the role having helped Wroxham to a 4th placed finish in the ERWFL Premier Division and seen over the transition of the woman’s side since it’s move to the Broads club. Has been a tale of two seasons on the pitch getting off to a fantastic start winning 5 out of 5 keeping pace with the title contenders then it all fell apart a tough spell following towards the end of 2021 into 2022 with 4 straight defeats and a high proportion of postponements adding to the frustration. The squad has rallied fantastically however and coming out the other side have recaptured their early season form with 5 straight league wins to get them back into contention at the top to finish 4th. A cup final appearance testament to the character shown. Grace Birchall the leagues 2nd highest goal scorer netting 21 times from just 16 appearances.

Wymondham Town Ladies like Wroxham showing great form at the start of the season 4 straight wins before a dip suffering back to back defeats towards the end of September, never looked back after that going on to win 12 of their remaining 14 games unbeaten to storm to the ERWFL Premier Division title and finish some 12 points clear of the rest. The squad going from strength to strength under manager Alex Guy promoted to the FAWNL 3rd and 4th tiers of the women’s football pyramid. Have done so with one of the smallest squads in the Premier Division using just 22 players in part testament to their fitness and togetherness with 3 of their attackers in the top 5 leading goal scorers behind Natasha Fensome and Wroxham’s, Birchall. Hannah Waters 3rd with 19 goals followed by Francesca Catchpole and Laura Nicholls with 16 and 15 respectfully. Aiming to make it a league and cup double could yet be a treble as Wymondham are into this season’s County Cup Final taking on Norfolk Division One Champions, Mulbarton Belles Ladies at Carrow Road on Wednesday 25th May. 

Road to the Final

The first two round of the ERWFL are contested between the Division One North & South sides with 4 winning through to join the 12 Premier Division sides in the 3rd round. Wymondham starting their league cup campaign at home to Division One South title contenders, Cheshunt FC Women a brace from Kyla Love who joined Wymondham from Wroxham along with a goal each for Francesca Catchpole, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell seeing them through with a 5-1 win. Wroxham away to Norfolk rival, King’s Lynn Town Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division a single Grace Birchall goal the difference between the sides on the day

Onto the quarter finals Wymondham again at home taking on their closest rivals 2nd placed Royston Town Women, Rebecca Russell once again on the score sheet along with Natasha Youngs to put them into the semi-finals winning 2-0. Wroxham form returning were drawn away to Colney Heath Ladies who themselves were showing strong form going into the tie. Wroxham coming home form Hertfordshire with a 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Grace Birchall and Lauren Bullard. A trip to Haringey Borough for Wymondham in the semi-finals Hannah Waters hitting a double in the match with Hayley Kindred and Laura Nicholls both getting a goal in a 4-1 victory. Wroxham through to the final without kicking a ball after opponents AFC Dunstable Ladies called of unable to raise a side the league ruling seeing Wroxham progress.

The New Croft, home of Haverhill Rovers FC, along with it’s women’s sides. The main grass pitch hosting the final the clubhouse and kitchen open seating in front overlooking the pitch, being watered before the game. A seated stand beside with viewing all round. A bright sunny day, warm with a few dark clouds around but otherwise a pleasant day for a cup final. 

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Hope Strauss, Grace Squire, Jess Horn, Tigi Robson, Becky Russell, Broghan Scully, Rosie George, Naomi Cooper, Lauren Bullard & Gracie Birchall (C). Subs – Hope Armstrong, Kayleigh Robb, Charlotte Gardiner-Banks, Holly Walker & Rhianne Brister.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Leah Newcombe (C), Chelsea Clarke, Lauren Kett, Mary Croft, Jennifer Codman, Rebecca Russell, Natasha Youngs, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters. Subs – Jess Luff, Hayley Kindred, Kyla Love, Lyla Studd & Francesca Catchpole.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Had to happen sooner of later writing a report where players on opposite sides have identical names with both Wroxham and Wymondham having a Rebecca Russell, know one as Becky however and will go with that. Both sides without a key defender for the match with both Wymondham’s Aimee Stretch and Wroxham’s Alice Parker ruled out through injury. Wymondham’ first competitive match in a month that being their semi-final game their league campaign wrapped up in March. It’s Wroxham to get the cup final underway kicking off the first half wearing blue and white vertical stripe shirts with blue shorts and socks. Wymondham opposite wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played out to the right put forwards for captain Grace Birchall in attack holds the ball up before playing it back into central midfield for Becky Russell who in turn spreads play to the left for full back Hop Strauss who attempts to play it up the line for Lauren Bullard moving out wide, Wymondham captain Leah Newcombe on her to challenge send the ball out for a throw.

Wymondham captain, Leah Newcombe

  Both sides moving in quickly on each other in possession, Wymondham’s Hannah Waters giving away a free-kick on halfway to the left bringing down midfielder, Broghan Scully. Strauss to play it up towards the top of the area, Newcombe up stretching to head the ball misplaces her header plying it on into her box, goalkeeper Chloe Pearce alert quickly advancing to grab hold of the ball. Wymondham push players on the diagonal pass sent out to Waters chasing into the right corner, does well to win a corner. Players up from the back, Wymondham from the right play it short the ball taken up the line before the cross is angled back into the box, Becky Russell up to head the ball clear for Wroxham.

Wymondham’s Laura Nicholls looking to get away from Wroxham’s Broghan Scully

   Rebecca Russell on the ball through the middle for Wymondham attempts to play the pass out to Waters drifting right, the ball intercepted by Becky Russell. Newcombe allowed to travel on with the ball for Wymondham lifts it on looking to put Waters in behind the Wroxham defence top of the area won well by Jess Horn. Newcombe then fouls Rosie George on halfway upending her as she looks to break with the ball at her feet. Strauss over the set-piece launching the ball high up into the Wymondham area, Lauren Kett with a strong header putting the ball clear for Wymondham. Both sides giving away free-kicks Wymondham hustling Wroxham on the ball forcing them into errors rushing passes winning a free-kick on halfway left themselves, Kett sends the ball up into the box, bounces through to goalkeeper, Cyan Fullbrook.

Wymondham’s Rebecca Russell

   Katie Knights getting about the pitch for Wymondham comes out to the right looking to hold up the ball wide of the Wroxham area is fouled. Rebecca Russell on the free-kick flashed into the box at in inviting height is won and cleared by Horn at the far post. Wymondham quick to turn the ball around Wroxham a little nervous not finding the forwards pass allowing their opponents to press forwards.

  GOAL! The ball played into Rebecca Russell central comes on, sees Waters out to the right looking to get in behind, sends the diagonal ball out to her, Wroxham immediately appeal for offside, no flag Waters turns the ball on into the area driving forwards and smashes a powerful strike across the keeper into the back of the net 0-1. 9 minutes played.

Hannah Waters with the opening goal for Wymondham in the ERWFL Cup Final

  Wroxham furious adamant Waters was offside, was certainly close. Wroxham try to find Birchall in attack, Mary Croft defending for Wymondham, to Jennifer Codman forwards for Rebecca Russell inside the Wroxham half moving right passes inside to Waters who plays the pass out to Laura Nicholls moving into the right channel, going into the corner Strauss closing her down wins a corner off the defender. Played in from the right is over Nicholls rising far post retrieved out on the left the cross then charged down. 

  Scully in the middle with Becky Russell on to Bullard has Birchall breaking away in attack on the left side the ball into her feet holding it up as Strauss rushes on taking the ball on on the overlap, Kett comes out to the wing to make the tackle put the ball out for the throw. Play stopped then as Scully is down in the middle clearly in pain, didn’t actually see what happened whether she was caught or not but is in trouble looks to be her ankle, the trainer on needs to be helped off can’t continue. Wroxham send on Holly Walker a rejig of personal with Horn coming into midfield, Strauss going over to the right and George dropping back into left back.

Wroxham’s Jess Horn with Wymondham’s Katie Knights

 Wroxham continue to look unsettled, Wymondham able to regain possession easily with the forward passes not finding anyone. No love lost between the sides certainly has the edge of a derby to it, tackles flying in a free-kicks being given away regularly, Wymondham after a hand ball is spotted on halfway. Played forwards to the top of the area intercepted by Horn. Newcombe on with the ball left forwards for Natasha Youngs her cross put into the area finding Nicholls close in at the near post, she shot blocked by Tigi Robson out for a corner. In across the six yard box from the right, Knights heads over at the far post.

   Horn fouled in the middle for Wroxham the ball out to George up on the left getting into the Wymondham half has Walker ahead of her the pair playing a one two looking to get forwards Kett across to help Newcombe the ball defended cleared for a throw. Wymondham sharp getting the ball forwards from the ball fizzed into Waters left outside the Wroxham area turns sending it on for Nicholls racing away down the wing looking to get into the box, Fullbrook able to get hold of the bouncing ball, Nicholls would have been offside anyway. A throw deep inside Wroxham territory for Wymondham on the right, players battling for possession, Bullard getting hold of it looking to get on the move for Wroxham the potential break stopped by Youngs as she gets the tackle in on Bullard.

Wymondham defender, Lauren Kett

  George with a strong run forwards with the ball on the left for Wroxham on for Walker, Kett in to challenge halting her advance. Fouls continue to be given away a feisty contest. Birchall on the recieving end of a strong challenge. From a throw high on the right Becky Russell wins Wroxham a corner kick. Frustrations with decisions boiling over for Wroxham as the first half moves into the last 15 minutes. Wymondham from a throw on the right Knights showing great skill on the ball turning it infield for Rebecca Russell 20 yards out looking to go forwards, Horn in on her defending for Wroxham.

Wroxham’s Becky Russell

   George clearing the ball right for a throw as Waters flicked on ball from the middle comes out to Nicholls breaking right. Wymondham’s turn to complain about a decision going against them players from both sides showing their frustration risking action being taken against them. Wroxham beginning to find some momentum going forwards at last getting players on better, finding Birchall and Bullard up top. Wymondham always ready to spring the counter Walker needing to track back on the right tackle Newcombe as she gets forwards. The throw deep into the area Waters up near side twisting her header down towards goal, players attacking it, thwarted by the offside flag. 

Wroxham’s Rosie George

  Strauss coming away with the ball on the left side for Wroxham moves inside sending the diagonal ball into Birchall’s feet back to gaol outside the D, looking to turn to her right spin off her marker, Kett reads it lunging out with her leg to take the ball away from her. Soon after though Kett picks up the first yellow card of the game as she catches Horn with a rash tackle in the middle. Strauss on it, into the top of the area Newcombe’s header clear falling to Becky Russell attempts to lob it back in over the defence, claimed by Pearce beyond. 

  Wroxham get up the pitch on the left George up with Walker the ball worked in across the top of the Wymondham area comes out to Bullard 20 yards out right side, curls a viscous shot in towards goal Pearce diving to her left can’t reach it the ball cannoning down off the crossbar and out for a corner off the falling keeper. Wroxham applying some pressure now in the final 3rd the corner played in across the penalty spot headed up twice by Wroxham before dropping to Horn at the near post stabbing her header wide.

Wroxham’s Jess Horn

  The clock ticking down in the first half Wroxham finishing it the strong with the ball higher up the pitch played with renewed confidence Birchall driving on powerfully on the right her cross from deep saved by Pearce out of her area quickly regained by Wroxham Horn into Becky Russell outside the D turns on the ball left intending to shoot, Kett diving in with a last ditch tackle to deny her the opportunity. A pause in play with Nicholls pulling up for Wymondham needing treatment. Okay to continue, the ball won back by Wroxham in the middle up to Bullard with Birchall to her right, Croft defending for Wymondham as the half-time whistle blows.

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Wymondham Town Ladies

  A strong opening half hour from Wymondham as they pressed the Wroxham defence back getting the ball on quickly through the middle to their attackers. Waters opening the scoring inside 10 minutes. A feisty game played at a good pace has the feel of a derby about it some strong challenges being made, decisions upsetting both sides, as of yet though just the one card shown. Wroxham looking a little unsettled at the start not getting their passes right, finding their way towards the end of the half not really wanting the whistle to blow. Wymondham heading into the changing rooms. Wroxham staying out on the pitch, manager Rebecca Burton giving one last impassioned half-time team talk spurring her side on for the 2nd half.

Rebecca Burton giving her final team talk as Wroxham manager (nobody died by the way)

  No changes at the break for either side, 1 goal in it still all to play for as Wymondham get the 2nd half underway. The ball with Newcombe at the back is quickly closed down Wroxham looking to press, Becky Russell getting hold of the ball played inside cut out by Codman. Walker bringing the ball on left fires a diagonal ball inside for Birchall back to goal top of the D, bodies around her turns into traffic no way through. Wymondham regain possession on the right sent on for Waters taking the ball on to the by-line her cross is deflected behind into the side netting for a corner kick. 

Katie Knights with Wroxham’s Becky Russell

 

The corner swung into the near side attacked as Wroxham defend getting it clear play stopped however with a player down, Robson needing treatment. Clarke up on the left with the ball clipping a long pass forwards into the box with Waters pulling off the Wroxham defence, Fullbrook starts to come close the angle, the striker not getting to it the goalkeeper allowing it to bounce on wide of goal. The game stretched more now as Wroxham push up losing the ball out wide, Wymondham counter on the right the diagonal ball forwards seeing Nicholls in through the middle, Fullbrook comes running out to the top of her area sliding in to clear it as the attacker arrives the ball won the pair collide a painful coming together of knees that leaves both on the floor in some discomfort and another long pause in play for treatment to be administered. 

 

  Both up gingerly can play on. Knights coming out to the right holding the ball up twists and turns getting the angle for the cross the ball lifted into the six yard box claimed by Fullbrook. Waters with the ball high on the right winning a throw, players from both sides battling for possession outside the Wroxham box, Becky Russell preventing the cross coming in. Knights stealing in on the ball for Wymondham laying it on for Water right channel, Robson with a good tackle defending for Wroxham. Wymondham’s defence sitting back keeping it tight making it difficult for Birchall to find a way through on goal, angry not to get awarded a corner as she drives on right side.

  A change for both sides with Wroxham bringing on Charlotte Gardiner-Banks for Squires. Wymondham bringing off Youngs replaced by Hayley Kindred. An hour played a much more even contest, Wroxham after the ball getting players up. Wymondham ready to counter at every opportunity Rebecca Russell on through the middle for Nicholls, Fullbrook coming out to meet her doing well to bat the ball down then smother it at the top of her area. Bullard to Birchall taking the ball on into the right corner getting inside to send a cross in towards the near post Becky Russell with the run, the ball clears by Croft. 

Wymondham’s Laura Nicholls

  Birchall with the ball at her feet outside the Wymondham area turns towards goal, Codman back to help her defence with the challenge to win it back. Becky Russell closing down the ball central sends it out to Cooper running into space on the right lifts the ball on into the box for Birchall right side bringing it down gets to the by-line, Kindred tackling for Wymondham. An Injury concern for Wymondham in the middle Waters has pulled up, hurting herself chasing down a ball moments earlier can’t continue a blow, Kyla Love coming on.

Naomi Cooper coming forwards for Wroxham

  Another change for Wroxham with Walker off, Rhianne Brister coming on. Another injury concern for Wymondham with Kett the player down again needs to come off, Wymondham sending on striker Francesca Catchpole. Love in the middle losing possession to Becky Russell, gets back at her to win the ball back a committed tussle from both side now. Horn picking up the ball in the middle allowed to travel pulling the trigger some 20 yards out, Pearce seeing it wide of her left post. The advantage played as Strauss is clipped bringing the ball on on to George out wide her cross into the middle, headed clear. 20 minutes left to play the game could yet go either way Wroxham much improved but as yet to test Pearce.

Wymondham’s Kyla Love

  Birchall battling her way forwards on the right calling for support as she moves infield her ball into the area covered by Pearce. Love heading the ball on up to Catchpole in attack, Strauss closing in to defend for Wroxham. Wymondham upping the pace as they look for a 2nd goal themselves. Players beginning to struggle with fatigue pulling up, Nicholl has taken a few knock during the game. Codman down too needing treatment a large chunk of stoppage time to be added. Codman coming off for Wymondham, Youngs returning to the pitch. 

  Love running onto the ball, 20 yards out looking to press into the box is tackled by Robson, Horn in the middle fouled by Catchpole as she tries to send it forwards. A free-kick for Wroxham wide left halfway into Bullard central has Cooper free to the right the pass into her moves inside lifting it forwards for Brister left of the D, Rebecca Russell up with her, attempts to turn her header on into the area, the ball loose for a moment a 2nd attempt to head it on for Brister the ball on through to the keeper. 

  Gardiner-Banks curls a shot into the keeper 25 yards out on the left side as the advantage is played after Love’s foul on Birchall. Free-kicks the story of the game regularly given away little quarter being given from either side. Brister comes off for Wroxham with Walker returning for the closing stages, time running out for Wroxham to get a goal force the game into extra-time. Strauss on for Cooper right side her cross in cut out. Clarke picking up the ball for Wymondham 20 yards out left of goal getting into the box her shot miscued wide at the near post. Game is very open Wymondham defending deep not leaving any gaps Bullard into Cooper right inside for Walker, top of the Wymondham area left, the ball cleared by Croft for a throw. 

 

  Youngs off a throw left getting to the by-line, Strauss defending for Wroxham, Youngs coming back on her to play it across the top of the area, Love onto it her attempt sent high. 

 GOAL! Regular time up Catchpole on the ball halfway inside the Wroxham half, Cooper closing in lunges in to win the ball Catchpole going down over her legs, Wroxham incensed as the free-kick is awarded against her. Looked a good tackle diving in though adjudged as dangerous play. Clarke over the set-piece the back hit well heading for goal to the right side swerving through the air Fullbrook getting something on it not enough though as it is lost beyond her bouncing down in front of goal, Wymondham have players racing in on the follow-up Love amongst those smashing the ball into the back of the net. Confusion as Wroxham think it’s been ruled out for offside, Wymondham celebrating. A pause in play as the officials consult, the goal is given the ball already over the line before Love arrived 0-2.

  A much needed goal for Wymondham with a substantial amount of injury time to be played. A huge blow for Wroxham who feel they have been on the wrong end of decisions for both goals. Birchall bringing the ball on right her crossed flashed into the six yard box, cleared before Gardiner-Banks can get her head on it. Lyla Studd coming on for Wymondham replacing Youngs. Catchpole holding up the ball fouled by Robson on halfway. 

 Wroxham press forwards in search of a goal Cooper 30 yards out on the right shifts inside letting fly with a stinging shot, Pearce diving to her right with the save pushing the ball out wide to the left. A free-kick crossed into the Wymondham area just out of Birchall’s reach, a foul for Wymondham then as Wroxham attempt to regain possession. Studd back to defend for Wymondham as Becky Russell and Bullard look to combine out on the right. Deep into stoppage time 5 minutes already played.

  A free-kick for Wroxham  30 yards out central, a booking for Kindred. Strauss’ shot striking the 3 man wall. Robson staying up now for Wroxham the ball with Cooper right lifted on Robson that side but the pass too long. 90 + 8 Wroxham with a free-kick on the left Strauss to put it on, headed clear top of the area by Rebecca Russell. Cooper central threading the pass into Robson right her cross into the Wymondham area won by the defence. 

 GOAL! 90+11 Wroxham pushing hard at the death winning another set-piece Strauss on it 25 yards out to the left of the D. Sent in on target Birchall attacking it even as Pearce looks to take it with both hands on her line, does well to hold onto the ball, a little bit of afters between Birchall and Croft that sees the defender kick out at her opponent. The referee blowing up cooling thing’s down calling Croft over booking her and awarding the penalty. Bullard placing the ball on the spot, calm as you like the keeper doesn’t move as she slots it low into the right corner 1-2.

Lauren Bullard scores from the penalty spot for Wroxham

  A goal back at the death for Wroxham, but only a consolation as moments later the final whistle blows and Wymondham celebrate as the win the League Cup and complete the double.

Wymondham celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Wroxham Women 1-2 Wymondham Town Ladies

  An entertaining Cup Final played between two committed sides local rivals, very much a derby. Wroxham much improved 2nd half taking the game to Wymondham opened things up, as they looked for a goal. Wymondham though keeping it tight at the back deep at time not leaving any room in behind. Losing players to injury Wymondham had to fight for the victory getting the crucial 2nd goal in the finish. Some controversial decisions Wroxham feeling hard done by for both goals. Entertaining nonetheless a great advert for the league the ERWFL only getting stronger.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a committed battle with both sides playing there part contenders on both sides. For Wroxham, Tigi Robson making a number of crucial challenges at the back. Becky Russell in the middle getting stuck in winning the ball on numerous ocassions looking to get forwards. Lauren Bullard outstanding getting hold of the ball coming close to scoring late in the first half scoring the penalty at the death. Wymondham had to fight for the victory and did a great job as a team. Lauren Kett at the back standing out amongst a solid defensive line. Hannah Waters up top with her movement on and off the ball always causing issues. The award though goes to midfielder Katie Knights covered a huge amount of ground in her pursuit of the ball breaking up several Wroxham moves holding up the ball and getting into some good forward positions.

 Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL Cup Final and completing a league and cup double.

Wymondham Town Ladies 2021/22 ERWFL Cup Winners

  An entertaining trip down to Haverhill my 3rd final in 6 days one more to come on Tuesday at Newmarket for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final before a slight rest. My thanks to both sides for their help today as always is appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sunday 29th August

ERWFL Premier Division

  Attention switches to the ERWFL this Sunday with my 1st look at a game from the Premier Division this season, a Norfolk derby too as early pace setters Wroxham Women host newly promoted King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

  The 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) has always been highly competitive with a good standard of talent on show. Promotion to the FAWNL the prize for the title winners. A full compliment of 12 sides competing again this season with a host of new sides joining the Division One set-up below as the ERWFL pushes on towards it’s goal of having 36 past two playing season’s declared null & void it has hampered the development of the game, hopefully we are turning a corner now and clubs can have more optimism as they build for the future. The FA doing some adjustments to the pyramid in terms of upward movement during the close season see’s Essex side Harlow Town Ladies promoted to the FAWNL, into the Premier Division in their place are King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

 That sees 3 Norfolk sides represented at this level in the 12 strong division. Plenty of derby’s to look forwards too. Wymondham Town Ladies the other Norfolk side leading the way with 2 wins from 2 to start the season and they will be there or there about come the end of the season.

  Wroxham Women’s ambitions are just as clear as the club is aiming to win the title and clinch promotion to the FAWNL themselves. A backed strongly by the men’s club with whom they share a ground. Wroxham Women formerly Acle United long established in the ERWFL Premier Division coming close to winning the title on occasion. Acle moving to become part of the Wroxham FC family in 2019, have moved quickly to establish the women’s side as an integral part of the club. Playing their home matches at Trafford Park where they have been embraced warmly by the fanbase. Now after two disrupted season’s Wroxham Women will be looking to challenge for the title.

  Have gotten off to a great start winning their opening 2 fixtures, joint leaders behind Norfolk rivals Wymondham who have made a similar start. Player recruitment is never easy in Norfolk but the talent pool is growing and clubs ambitions growing with it some shrewd signings have been made. Wroxham adding three players to their squad close season with Hope Strauss coming in having had good experience playing for Billericay Town Ladies. Alice Parker comes to Wroxham, the young defender having FAWNL experience playing for Norwich City Women previously, as does attacker Holly Walker. Also in midfield/attack the club have signed Amber Cantwell the playmaker having spent the past 4 season’s in the FAWNL with Cambridge United WFC. Grace Birchall captaining the side this season their talisman up front scoring a host of goals for the club already has 4 to her name this season including an opening day hat-trick in the 4-2 home win over Luton Town Ladies.

 Promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division, King’s Lynn Town Ladies have ambitions to go further up the women’s football pyramid themselves. The 5th tier of the game providing a consistent challenging test for players. It can take a while to get to grips with. Joe Simpson now in charge of the women’s side having had a brief spell coaching at Wroxham Women. A new era of sorts for the club as this season they will be playing all their home games at The Walks home of King’s Lynn Town FC playing in the National League now coincidentally also at tier 5 in the men’s football pyramid. The club has come along way in a relatively short space of time. Narrowly missing out to Haringey Borough Women on the opening day losing 3-2.

  The club have made several new signings to bolster the squad as they step up to the 5th tier. Already have a few in the squad with Premier Division experience playing for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies with more making to journey up the A47 to join King’s Lynn, Alexa Hunter and Ella Gavaghan both scoring on her debuts against Haringey, Sam Davis and Amy Magnus also come in from PNS. Goalkeeper Ellie Prentice re-joins after a spell at Wroxham also coming to the club from Wroxham is attacker, Maryanne Hoy. Came back from a goal down away to Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to earn their first point last weekend, Alexa Hunter on the scoresheet for a 2nd successive match.

  Trafford Park the venue for today’s fixture, a good sized grass pitch offering plenty of width, a clubhouse and bar serving hot food and drinks on one side a terraced stand behind one goal where the Wroxham fans were in good voice supporting the team throughout the match. A small seated stand to the other side. The pitch sloping slightly from one goal mouth to the other. Another below par Sunday for August with cloud cover around for much of the day the sun trying it’s best to make an appearance as the players walked out onto the pitch.

  Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Hope Strauss, Alice Parker, Jess Horn, Harriet Meers, Becky Russell, Amber Long, Kayleigh Holloway, Amber Cantwell, Grace Birchall (C) & Holly Walker. Subs – Laura Beevor, Gracie Squires, Rhianne Brister, Broghan Scully & Lauren Bullard.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Christina Vivas, Shanice Burch, Samantha Davis, Frances Peeling, Oksana Imanalijeva, Amy Magnus, Zara O’Neill, Jodie Hopkins, Rachel Skinner, Tiffany Forshaw (C) & Jade Kelly. Subs – Amy Bell, Kimberley Fairweather, Amy Cropley & Katie Ward.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Hunter missing for King’s Lynn today as the visitors kick off the 1st half wearing their away strip of green shirts and shirts with black trim with black and green socks. Wroxham opposite in their home colours blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shirts and socks. King’s Lynn sending the ball out to the left with Oksana Imanalijeva breaking forwards bringing the ball under control checks her run before swinging in a cross to the near post, the Wroxham defence slicing it behind giving away an early corner. Lifted in from the left to the near post goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook amongst bodies going up for it gets deflected behind for another corner. Flung in deep this time King’s Lynn captain Tiffany Forshaw making a far post run strikes her back rebounds out of the area to be picked up by midfielder Zara O’Neill looks to drive on into the box, Jess Horn charging down her shot.

  A bright start from King’s Lynn, Jodie Hopkins tackling 25 yards out to regain possession looks for Imanalijeva on the left, the pass cut out by Hope Strauss for Wroxham. A throw to the visitors high on the right, Forshaw turning it into the box, Jade Kelly central can’t quite reach it but play stays with King’s Lynn as Imanalijeva bringing it under control wide left looping a ball back into the six yard box, Fullbrook back on her line taking a low catch. King’s Lynn on the front foot keeping Wroxham penned back in the final 3rd closing the defence down quickly not letting the hosts break out. 

Jodie Hopkins winning the ball in midfield for King’s Lynn

 Wroxham full back Alice Parker with a chance to relieve the pressure as she brings the ball out from the left firing a long diagonal pass out to the right looking for the advancing Kayleigh Holloway, controlling well the winger jinks infield before sending in a dangerous ball near post, Frances Peeling in ahead of Holly Walker to clear the threat. Jade Kelly moving to the right in attack for King’s Lynn runs onto the ball looking to go on get into the area, Parker gets back on her well to lunge in put the ball out for a throw. 

Alice Parker clearing the ball for Wroxham (not about to deliver a Kung Fu kick to back of Amy Magnus’ head)

  Outnumbered at left back as Hopkins and Rachel Skinner get upfield to support Kelly, Parker does well to scramble the ball upfield, turns into a good ball for Wroxham captain, Grace Birchall to latch onto halfway, takes the ball on is sent tumbling to the ground as she releases the ball with Amber Cantwell furthest forwards play stopped however by a raised flag for offside. A free-kick awarded to King’s Lynn for a push in the back 35 yards out central. Forshaw over it hits the wall with her strike. 

  Birchall coming deep to get onto the ball spins sending a long pass out to Holloway deep on the right quickly closed down in the corner plays it back up the line for Strauss to clip a high ball into the area, goalkeeper Christina Vivas able to claim it unchallenged. King’s Lynn setting a high tempo closing down the ball has unsettled Wroxham who are struggling to find their rhythm. The midfield pushing on to support their attackers.

Zara O’Neill playing the ball forwards for King’s Lynn

  GOAL! 11 minutes played and King’s Lynn capitalise from their good start to the game by taking the lead. Rachel Skinner with the strike from distance all of 35 yards out as the ball deflected in midfield runs into her sees the keeper off her line and connects with the ball perfectly to send it angling into the back of the net 0-1.

A long distance strike from Rachel Skinner putting King’s Lynn ahead

  Wroxham go on the attack from the restart working the ball out to the right winning a free-kick inside the King’s Lynn half. Strauss to delivery, sends it looping up into the top of the area the King’s Lynn defence heading it away. Going on the offensive themselves are awarded a free-kick in virtually the same position as Skinner took her shot from. Players up into the area a Peeling places the ball, clips it into the box invitingly at the far post a knock sending it goalwards, Fullbrook reacting quickly off her goal line to lunge forwards and claim the ball.

King’s Lynn’s Frances Peeling

  Imanalijeva showing good pace on the left enjoying a good contest with Strauss squares a cross into the near post area, headed away by Horn, drops to Hopkins 25 yards out left of the D takes on the volleyed effort her attempt angling wide of the near post. Wroxham are letting their frustration show giving away several niggly fouls which aren’t helping the hosts gain any momentum. 

  Cantwell moving right with the ball at her feet pushed on down the line for Holloway whips a cross in along the six yard box, Walker closing in can’t make contact, King’s Lynn bring it away up the left Skinner driving forwards playing in Forshaw right channel, Parker diving in to put the ball out for a throw. King’s Lynn come close to doubling their lead with another punt from distance deep on the right this time hit hard by Shanice Burch her looping ball his Fullbrook beaten the goalkeeper turning to see the ball drop onto the post and deflect away across the face off her goal rolling all the way out for a throw in. 

King’s Lynn defender Shanice Burch sliding in on Wroxham’s Holly Walker

  King’s Lynn winning the ball in the middle Amy Magnus into Forshaw, turns tries to thread it through a needle for Kelly, Harriet Meers cutting it out for Wroxham. A throw for Wroxham left side inside the King’s Lynn half dropped into Birchall’s feet turns drives on a powerful run with the ball looking to get into the box, Peeling forcing her back out into the D, Birchall strong nevertheless turns sharply getting a shot away angled in low Vivas down low to her left making a comfortable save. A change for Wroxham has seen Long replaced by Broghan Scully in midfield. 

Wroxham goalkeeper, Cyan Fullbrook

  Skinner is finding space to run into with the ball for King’s Lynn on the right central plays a through ball intended to put Kelly in on goal, Meers once again making a vital interception. Birchall is putting herself about the pitch looking to get things going for Wroxham, the hosts winning a throw on the right the ball put onto Birchall’s feet turns towards goal driving on, Forshaw coming back to tackle as Peeling closes her down before Birchall can line up a shot. Birchall moments later from a throw on the left dragging a speculative attempt wide of the near post.

Wroxham defender, Harriet Meers

  GOAL! King’s Lynn go on to double their advantage and the goal comes from another strike from distance. Attacking on the right side, Kelly with Skinner, Meers in to tackle as Fullbrook is drawn towards the ball right of the box, the clearance falling to Forshaw sends a high ball up into the air from 30 yards out, coming down it’s difficult to tell where it’s going to fall has Fullbrook worried but the goalkeeper can’t get into a position to deflect it away as it bounces in front of goal and up into the roof of the net 0-2.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Tiffany Forshaw doubling the visitors advantage

  The visitors taking a 2 goal lead midway through the first half continue to press the advantage closing the ball down in the middle Skinner on for Hopkins turns looking to play Kelly in behind, the flag however going up against the attacker. Sharper to the ball King’s Lynn are working hard, Wroxham clearly rattled are looking for a spark to get them going in attack, Birchall looking the most likely to make that happen as she comes for the ball turning to take on defenders, both Burch and Peeling with strong tackles to halt her runs. 

  Forshaw with another crack at goal from distance sees her effort bounce wide of the right post. Skinner too with a strike from distance, Fullbrook seeing it all the way takes into her midriff. The challenges getting a bit stronger now a little heated the referee needing to have a word with a couple of players calm things down. Magnus brings the ball on down the left for King’s Lynn on for Kelly in the box puts her shot wide.

  GOAL! The 1st half entering the final 5 minutes and Wroxham pull a goal back. Attacking down the right, Holloway his fouled by Peeling right on the by-line a free-kick awarded. Strauss with the set-piece more or less a corner whips it in with pace inswinging towards the near post Birchall comes charging in jumping to plant a bullet header past the keeper into the back of the goal 1-2.

Grace Birchall heading the ball in for Wroxham

  Wroxham straight on the attack as they win possession back at the restart Scully out to Holloway right pace down the line, Sam Davis sliding into challenge the ball out for a throw. Wroxham work the ball into the box near side Walker closed down will by Skinner who comes out on top to clear the danger for King’s Lynn. The goal has given Wroxham a much needed boost as they look to finish the 1st half on the front foot. On the ball in the final 3rd right off the area flashed out to Birchall left hand corner 18 yards out back to goal closely marked squirms inside the turn and angle a shot over the crossbar. 

Amy Magnus coming forwards with the ball for King’s Lynn

  Birchall gathering the ball in the middle ploughs forwards spotting Cantwell moving free into the right channel attempts to slide her in, Burch doing well sliding in to take the ball away from Cantwell’s feet the half-time whistle blowing up a second later.

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-2 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

  A strong start to the game from King’s Lynn on the front foot right from the off closing the ball down in their opponents half preventing Wroxham’s defence from getting the ball up to their attackers. A high tempo performance the midfield up with the attackers, the bright start rewarded with a goal. Found themselves 2 goals to the good midway through the half with Wroxham rattled frustrated. The foul count rising nothing you wouldn’t expect in a derby match. The hosts looking for a spark to get them going a goal pulled back with 5 minutes left in the first half just what they needed. Birchall heading it home to see them trailing 2-1 at the break. 

  The Bure Valley Wildcats providing the half-time entertainment playing a game out in the middle. No changes for either side at the break with Wroxham getting the 2nd half underway. Move the ball up the left sung into the box, King’s Lynn defend. Wroxham with intent at the start of the 2nd period looking to turn play around the ball played forwards into the right channel, Birchall getting inside Peeling scooping a shot up over the crossbar. 

  Wroxham’s turn to snap into the tackles competitive in the middle of the park, Cantwell , then Russell pushing the ball through the centre for Birchall peeling off the defence to attack inside the box Vivas out quickly to close her down sliding in isn’t put of, claiming the ball well as Birchall dives in on the ball. The hosts winning a corner left side King’s Lynn defending it well at the near post. Sloppy at the back from Wroxham left side see Magnus run in to take the ball flashes a snap shot wide across the six yard box.  

King’s Lynn goalkeeper, Christina Vivas

  Birchall looking determined sees the ball into her feet inside the opponents D, holding off her marker turns unleashing a shot, leaning back though she places it wide of the right post. King’s Lynn make a change bring on Katie Ward for Kelly up top. Wroxham too with a change, switching keepers bringing on Laura Beevor for Fullbrook. Scully battling in the middle of the park to win the ball puts it forwards for Birchall to attack taking it into the box, Peeling stays on her well to tackle put the ball out for a throw. Wroxham with a strong start to the 2nd half press the advantage Walker running with the ball left of goal strikes it hard on the angle blasting it into the side netting. The hosts coming on right side put up to Cantwell on the touchline looks to flick it on skip past Imanalijeva who throws out a leg sending Cantwell sprawling, a free-kick awarded and a card shown to Imanalijeva.

Wroxham’s Amber Cantwell

 GOAL! It’s from the set-piece that Wroxham find the equalising goal. Now I have a  picture of the build up of this that gives me a clearer indication of what happened, Strauss placing the ball down angles a pacy delivery in towards the top of the area, Birchall near side leaps either gets a glancing touch or misses entirely either way has unsighted Forshaw rising beyond her the ball hitting her square in the face knocking her to the ground, drops forwards toward the six yard box right side, Birchall reacting with Magnus both sliding in on the loose ball Birchall’s boot sending the ball flying up to beat the diving Vivas into the top corner! 2-2.

Grace Birchall with the equaliser for Wroxham

  A long pause after the equalising goal as King’s Lynn have two players down, Forshaw and Magnus hurt in the collision with Birchall. Both trainers called onto the pitch to assist. Both needing to take their time. Magnus eventually able to continue. Forshaw needing to come off to access her injury. Amy Cropley coming onto the field. 

  A more positive approach 2nd half has seen Wroxham pull the scores level and looking the sharper now, with Russell and Scully linking up better with the attacking players. Play resumes Wroxham quickly get the ball onto Cantwell central has space, takes the ball on pushing for the area, O’Neill coming on to charge her down 20 yards from goal. Both sides continuing to give away free-kicks one for King’s Lynn wide right angled high into the box, Beevor though can catch comfortably inside her six yard box. Lauren Bullard has come on for Wroxham replacing Walker in attack. 

  Is a good contest King’s Lynn have put a lot into the first hour Wroxham strong in the 2nd period. Skinner in a more advanced role for King’s Lynn picks up the ball central driving on Horn coming in to go shoulder to shoulder with the attacker, tangling they both end up on the floor Skinner stays down with cramp. Wroxham winning the free-kick. Burch defending against Birchall inside the box left side as the attacker bursts towards goal close in Burch tackles the ball loose the angle almost gone a falling Birchall turns to lift a shot over the goal. 

  Space opening up in midfield Russell playing it up the left for Birchall wide wraps her foot around the ball sending it in towards Bullard near the penalty spot just behind her Bullard does well to help it on to Cantwell at the far post, shifting it inside to avoid a tackle shots back across goal lacks pace as Vivas gets down to hold onto it. Forshaw is back on for King’s Lynn. Fewer opportunities for King’s Lynn in the 2nd half the defence the busier of the two now, Davis defending superbly against Holloway as she attempts to cut inside from the right. 

 GOAL! And the turnaround is complete as Wroxham comeback from 2-0 down to take the lead. Holloway with the ball at her feet on the right taking on her marker up the wing checking back to skip inside top of the area to fizz a diagonal ball into the near post Cantwell racing in throwing herself at it sliding in on the ball to turn home from inside the six yard box 3-2 with a little over 10 minutes to play.

Amber Cantwell slides in to gives Wroxham the lead

  King’s Lynn on the backfoot for most of the 2nd period now behind get forwards on the right winning a free-kick right on the touchline as good as a corner. Bring players forwards whipped into the area Wroxham hook it upfield to Birchall to break quickly shoots from outside the area, Vivas down low good hands to make the save. The game opening up space for both sides Forshaw central on the ball flinging a good diagonal ball out to Imanalijeva left side squares a ball in along the top of the area, Scully back to defend hurt as she clears the ball. O’Neill gets back to help Davis out on the left of defence as she has Cantwell and Bullard advancing to support Holloway, the ball cleared.

GOAL! Birchall a threat up top all game scores her 2nd hat-trick in 3 matches to make an excellent goal scoring start to the season. The ball won in the middle fired into her feet back to goal left side 20 out turns inside powerful bursting into the area pace behind the shot driven in low Vivas down to her left smartly pushing it away, her momentum seeing her there for a 2nd bite at the cherry Birchall shows composure to lift it up over the keeper to find the goal beyond 4-2. 

A hat-trick for Grace Brichall

A blow for King’s Lynn with just a couple of minutes of regular time left to play. Taking the ball forwards from the restart O’Neill sends it through to Ward left side getting in behind lifts a cross into the box looking for Skinner central, Meers getting in front of her to win the ball back and clear. Birchall comes very close to adding a 4th goal to her name late on but for a brilliant save from Vivas. Recieving the ball outside the box left of the D turns clipping a rising shot in aiming for the top corner Vivas jumping well throwing up an arm tipping the shot over the bar. 

The corner given on the left fed up the line before being delivered near side attacked by Russell can’t direct it on target. King’s Lynn bringing on Kimberly Fairweather late in the game. Cantwell goes into the box for a clumsy challenge. 

 GOAL! Harsh on King’s Lynn but joy for Wroxham in the closing moments of the match as they further extend their lead. Pushing players forwards looking for a foal of their own Wroxham break lifting the ball up beyond halfway Birchall and Bullard together beating the offside trap, Birchall taking the ball on Bullard inside her on into the area, Vivas outnumbered has to go towards Birchall who unselfishly squares it to Bullard to put into the empty net 5-2.

Lauren Bullard on the scoresheet for Wroxham

 A complete turnaround for Wroxham as they make a late double substitution bringing of Cantwell and Holloway with Walker returning to the action alongside Gracie Squires. Not much time left for either to make an impact as Wroxham see out the game to make it 3 wins from 3 to start the season stay neck and neck at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with Wymondham who also made it 3 wins from 3 this afternoon. 

Full time Wroxham Women 5-2 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

  A good contest and certainly a match of two halves, a brilliant start from King’s Lynn getting on the front foot early in the 1st half playing at a high tempo to close down the ball prevent Wroxham bringing it out of defence taking a deserved lead. Wroxham rattled further as they feel 2 goals down midway through the half. A much needed goal pulled back at the end of the first half and a chance to set a few things right for the 2nd half. Starting the 2nd half strong Birchall setting the example the ball closed down better chances at the other end limited severely for King’s Lynn. The host getting back on level terms before Cantwell slid in to put them in the lead. Birchall sealing her 2nd hat-trick of the season late in the game a goal from Bullard in stoppage time the icing on the cake as King’s Lynn pressed forwards looking for a reply.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A good contest this a clear winner but a few performances of note to mention first. For King’s Lynn, Rachel Skinner was impressive especially first half putting in challenges and getting forwards to support the attacking players. In defence Frances Peeling making a number of vital tackles. Christina Vivas despite being on the losing side making some great saves. For Wroxham both full backs did well Hope Strauss on the right Alice Parker on the left. Kayleigh Holloway a willing runner on the right of attack throughout. The award though  has to go to Wroxham’s Grace Birchall things not going for her side in the 1st half rolled up her sleeves and took the game to King’s Lynn. Powerful with the ball at her feet travelling forwards and an instinctive finisher scoring her 2nd hat-trick of the season… which is only 3 game old.

A great first game of the season from the ERWFL for Women’s Football East to showcase. A game of two halves entertaining between two committed sides entertaining. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams details good to catch up with both will no doubt see them in action again this season.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Kettering Town Women

Sunday 6th September

Women’s FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round

  Dusting down the notepad after 175 days of inactivity the previous season ending abruptly declared null & void as the COVID pandemic spread across the globe. Good to be back and raring to go many sides getting there season underway this Sunday taking part in the Extra Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup, a record number of entrants once again and a whooping 87 ties taking place across the country. Heading to Trafford Park home of Wroxham Women as they welcome Northamptonshire side Kettering Town Women.

 376 sides entering this years FA Cup competition, plenty of sides making their debut in the cup to all taking the first step to Wembley. Today’s clash a meeting between two sides that locked horns in the early stages of last seasons competition, Kettering the hosts that time around getting into the lead before Wroxham came back to win 6-2. Kettering making the trip to Norfolk this time around, both sides playing in the Premier Division of their respective Regional Leagues. 

  Wroxham bringing the already established ERWFL side Acle United Women under their umbrella last season. The club offering plenty of support to the woman’s set-up and have high ambitions for Wroxham Women to go on and achieve promotion into the FAWNL. Manager Rebecca Burton bringing in several new faces to further strengthen the squad amongst them, pacy winger Zoe Cossey who has plenty of experience playing in the FAWNL most recently with Ipswich Town Women. Becky Russell also brings plenty of experience to the side, the ex King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain strong in an attacking midfield role has a decent range for goal from outside the box. Jess Horn another new addition joining from AFC Basildon. Erin Wilson coming to the club from Lincoln with Ellie Prentice adding to the goalkeeping options joining from King’s Lynn too.

   Northamptonshire side Kettering Town Women are established in the East Midlands Women’s Regional Premier Division. Like the ERWFL the regional Premier Division’s are getting stronger year on year offering plenty of competitive action. Kettering have added a few new faces to thier squad prior to today’s match. Centre back Hayley Matthews coming in along with goalkeeper Jade Smallbones. Winger Lauren Adams and Stephanie Gale in attack who has plenty of experience leading the line will pose strong threat for opposing defences.

 Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, my first trip to the ground. On the outskirts of Wroxham coming from Norwich. A large grass pitch sloping from one goal mouth to the other. Plenty of room for spectators a small seated stand one side of the ground the clubhouse and changing rooms situated behind the dugouts on the opposite side. The bar open, tea and coffees also being serves along with food… and although I very nearly did I resisted the temptation to purchase a cheeseburger. Pleasant weather sunny and bright a few clouds around keeping things cooler.

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Laura Dawson, Lauren Bailey, Leanne Symonds, Jess Horn (C), Kate Pasque, Broghan Scully, Becky Russell, Kayleigh Holloway, Lauren Bullard & Grace Birchall. Subs – Ellie Prentice, Victoria Pleavin, Amber Rowland, Charlotte Gardiner, Zoe Cossey, Madeleine Pitt, Rhianne Brister, Laura Beevor & Emma Allsopp.

 Kettering Town Women starting XI – Jade Smallbones, Sami Jones, Kylie Evans, Hayley Matthews, Maddie Bates, Jo Brandon (C), Brodie Betts, Lauren Handley, Caitlin Redfern-Christie, Leah Stacey & Stephanie Gale. Subs – Charlotte Hyams, Michelle Smith & Jess Perrin.

Nine substitutes on he bench for Wroxham, this is new for the FA Cup this season still the same number can be brought on during the game however. Wroxham having the numbers available and knowing I was coming knew they’d all get a mention in the match report. Becky Russell and Jess Horn captaining the side making their competitive debuts with fellow new signings Zoe Cossey and Ellie Prentice on the bench. Jade Smallbones, Hayley Matthews and Stephanie Gale all starting for Kettering. The visitors getting the tie underway kicking off first half wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and red socks. Wroxham opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts blue shorts and socks.

Lauren Handley looking to get the ball away for Kettering

  The hosts pressing the ball straight away inside the centre circle comes to Kayleigh Holloway right side pushed into midfielder Broghan Scully back playing after missing most of last season through injury prods it on for Russell driving on towards the box before sending it out to Laura Dawson on the wing, Brodie Betts in to make the challenge for Kettering the ball going out for a throw. A bright start from Wroxham numbers forwards the ball crossed in from the throw in headed clear by Hayley Matthews for Kettering. A free kick given outside the box in a dangerous position for Wroxham, Scully over the ball hits a good strike goalwards, Smallbones up well on her line to make a confident claim.

Jade Smallbones with a confident take in goal for Kettering Town Women

The ball is quickly regained by Wroxham pushing on with intent in the opening minute, put in from the right headed clear to the left, Lauren Handley attempting to get it up the pitch for Kettering, Leanne Symonds closing her down inside her own half getting Wroxham back on the offensive. Laura Dawson linking well with Holloway on the right, Russell getting on to support Grace Birchall and Lauren Bullard in attack the hosts keeping Kettering penned inside their own half in the opening 5 minutes. Russell bringing the ball on central with the attempted through ball for Birchall top of the area sends to to Dawson deep on the right who lays it back for Holloway to lift a cross into the area Birchall there nipping in to attack it near post getting her boot up to connect with the ball drills it wide of the post.

Kettering’s Hayley Matthews

  A free kick won inside the Wroxham half gives Kettering an opportunity to try and get a foot hold in opposition territory, the ball put in high towards the top of the area defended well by Jess Horn heading clear, Wroxham look to build an attack on the right, Handley over on that side now putting the a good tackle to regain possession. Wroxham look sharp Dawson providing a good outlet on the right, pacy down to the byline wins her side a corner. The delivery into the box won by Matthews she looks to play it up field to Gale in attack, getting the ball into her feet, using her strength to get forwards hasn’t support is eventually crowded off the ball.

Wroxham’s Leanne Symonds coming in to tackle Kettering’s Stephanie Gale

   Getting numbers into the Wroxham half Kettering are caught on the counter attack, Russell getting hold of the ball driving forwards lining up a curler from distance is blocked by the back tracking defence. Frustration up the other end as Sami Jones looks to have gotten Caitlin Redfern-Christie clear on the right wing only for the flag to go up against her. Wroxham setting a good pace building up quickly on the right the ball sent in low central Russell rushing on to strike it goalwards her shot straight into keeper Jade Smallbones. Handley looking a threat for Kettering whenever she gets hold of the ball inside the opposition half holding off her marker spins looking to send it through the middle for Gale, the Wroxham defence moving well to catch her offside.

Sami Jones on the ball for Kettering Town Women

Birchall scores plenty of goals and never needs an invite to shoot, from a throw in on the right the ball is helped on towards her top of the area right side, strikes it on the volley the shot looping up over the bar. Gale is left frustrated again by another offside decision. Handley on the left does well to get the ball up the line to Leah Stacey the Kettering attacker winning a throw in the ball sent in towards the box left hand corner Gale attacking it but can’t turn to shoot as three Wroxham defenders converge on her. 

 A heavy blow to the face for Kettering captain Jo Brandon as she goes up for the ball with Birchall. A pause in play so she can receive treatment, is up and okay to continue, Scully in the wars for Wroxham moments later in a coming together with Gale. 20 minutes played Wroxham with the better start as play stops for a drinks break. Play resuming were Wroxham left off on the attack Russell skipping past a challenge in the middle threading a pass low through to Dawson right side Birchall running in behind her plays a clever back heel to her, her shot blocked by Kylie Evans inside the box, spins out to Dawson wide right driven back in races wide across the face of goal.

Wroxham Women’s, Laura Dawson

   Again Russell finds Smallbones in the Kettering goal as she attempts to dink the ball in high from the edge of the box having been set-up by Birchall receiving the ball after good build-up play on the right between Dawson and Holloway. Brandon sliding in to regain possession in the middle for Kettering onto Handley, drives up the right, Symonds coming in to close her down can’t release the ball as Wroxham get it back and are immediately racing forwards. Birchall peeling away to the left side spins in behind is clear grass in front of her, Bullard racing on through the centre, Birchall finding her, her strike from outside the area charged down by the Kettering defence.

  GOAL! with a little over 10 minutes to play in the 1st half Wroxham get the goal their dominance has deserved. Players rushing on as the hosts attack down the right Holloway down the line for Dawson her cross back in towards the top of the area over Birchall near side comes to Russell top of the D strikes her foot through the ball stroking it past the keeper for her first Wroxham goal 1-0.

A goal for Becky Russell on her debut for Wroxham

 GOAL! One goal brings two as Wroxham immediately double their lead, attacking right side Holloway with a ball lifted into the box initially headed clear falls straight to Russell all of 25 yards out right of the area hits it hard and low into the bottom corner 2-0.

  Birchall on the ball 25 yards out jinks left the right looking to get a shot away, leaning back as she does she sends her strike over the crossbar. Wroxham looking strong in the latter stages of the 1st half Holloway right side drills in a low cross cut out by Matthews. Holloway fed the ball into her feet by Scully moments later sends it central for Birchall who can’t quite tee up Russell bombing on. 

Kettering Town Women captain, Jo Brandon

Kettering haven’t had much of the ball at all in the 1st half in the closing moments win a corner on the left a chance to bring players forwards into the opposition box. The first corner cleared behind at the near post for 2nd take, this one deeper headed high into the air dropping onto the roof of the net a 3rd corner given this one cleared brings with it the whistle for half-time. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 2-0 Kettering Town Women

 Wroxham going into the half-time interval leading 2-0 with Becky Russell scoring a brace on her debut. A dominant display from the hosts during the first 45 minutes on the front foot right from the off, getting players forwards good runs down the right and through the middle. The hosts defence rarely troubled Kettering struggling to match Wroxham’s pace haven’t been able to fashion much in the final third. Have alot of work to do if they want to get back into it and certainly you feel need to keep it tight early on in the 2nd half not concede a third and then hopefully pull a goal back themselves apply some pressure on Wroxham.

The teams back out for the 2nd half Wroxham making a change Zoe Cossey on to make her debut right side replacing Scully with Holloway coming central and Dawson dropping deeper. The hosts kicking off the 2nd period straight on the the attack winning a throw in the right Cossey straight into the action receiving the ball to her feet twisting inside and bursting towards the box, a boot stabbed out tripping her inside the area a penalty kick awarded.

 GOAL! Bullard has the ball under her arm sets it on the spot, deceives the keeper who is wrong footed as the ball is sent along the ground into the opposite corner 3-0. The perfect start to the 2nd half for Wroxham.

Lauren Bullard makes it 3-0 to Wroxham from the penalty spot

  Cossey full of pace and energy as she gets hold of the ball for Wroxham prepared to take players on Betts getting the challenge in to deny her a chance, the visitors get the ball on quickly mounting an attack on their right the cross swung in across the face of goal, Fullbrook snatching it into her gloves. Up the line for Cossey on the right wing her cross into the box just over Birchall near post cleared central by the Kettering defence the visitors on the back foot.

  GOAL! Birchall with a sweet strike from close to 30 yards out as the ball comes to her left of the D connects well the ball up and over the keeper dipping under the bar into the back of the net 4-0.

Wroxham’s Grace Birchall with Kettering’s Jo Brandon

  GOAL! Wroxham going for the kill at the start of the 2nd half scoring 2 quick goals add a 3rd as Bullard nets her 2nd of the game the ball into her top if the area right of the D into the box closing in on the keeper looks to slot the ball past her, Smallbones making an excellent save close in to turn the ball up onto the crossbar, brutal then that it should rebound back into the six yards box and Bullard alert as any attacker shoulder be runs onto it to send into the empty net 5-0.

  Cossey finding herself on the left has the ball played into her feet takes on the Kettering defence lets loose from all of 25 yards out her rising strike saved fantastically by Smallbones diving to her right to put the ball behind for a corner. 

  GOAL! The corner taken short played back up the line left side a diagonal ball sent into the box dipping at the near post Cossey nipping in in front of the keeper to score her 1st goal for Wroxham 6-0. 

Wroxham’s Zoe Cossey with Kettering’s Brodie Betts

  A devastating spell from Wroxham at the start of the 2nd half scoring 4 goals in just 9 minutes to take the game firmly away from Kettering. A further blow for the visitors too as Handley picks up a knock from a challenge and can’t continue Michelle Smith coming on. Wroxham making their 2nd change with Amber Rowland coming on for Lauren Bailey. Russell playing deeper in the 2nd half with a chance to get forwards a good run up towards the top of the box before being tackled by Brandon, Birchall looks to get hold of the lose ball but is quickly closed down by Jones and Evans. 

Wroxham’s Kayleigh Holloway with Kettering’s Lauren Handley

 Holloway coming on central dribbling the ball gains alot of ground before attempting to thread the pass through for Birchall central, Evans doing well to cut it out. Birchall’s not interested in tap ins today as she has another go from 30 yards out her effort whistling over the bar nevertheless getting a loud cheer from the vocal home support from behind that goal. Jess Perrin and Charlotte Hyams are on for Kettering with Gale and Stacey coming off. 

  GOAL! Cossey scoring her 2nd of the game as she makes a great run between two defenders into the box following a fantastic pass from Rowland in the middle, lifts the ball up into the back of the net to make it 7-0.

  GOAL! Wroxham are running rampant Kettering getting pulled out of shape tiring a cross lifted up and into the box from the right, Birchall lively nipping in to attack in near post gets her head down to nod it in before the keeper can claim 8-0.

  Four Wroxham players all on a brace the race is on to see if anyone can claim their hat-trick, energy levels and confidence are high. Kettering reeling trying their best to regroup. Cossey setting up Birchall outside the box opens her body to shoot across the keeper, Smallbones with a wonderful save to deny her. 

Kettering Town Women’s goalkeeper Jade Smallbones

  Smallbones gets exposed by her defence moments later called into action produces a brilliant double save, Bullard running into the box clear left side this time headers the ball from close range Smallbones instinctive gloving it down to the floor, is up quickly as Bullard takes a swing at the loose ball saves with her legs a save of top quality despite the scoreline. 

  Cossey making a huge impact since coming on 2nd half for Wroxham is after a ball played on up the right wing for her by Holloway, cuts inside beating a defender gets her heels clipped but stays on her feet carrying the ball across the top of the box into the D squeezes a shot away the ball screwed wide of the far post. 

  GOAL! Doesn’t take Cossey long to make amends however gathering the ball into her feet having drifted over to the left head down charges towards the box one intent lets fly with a strike curling it low past the diving keeper into the far corner of the goal to make it a hat-trick on debut 9-0.

  Kettering have yet to trouble Fullbrook in the Wroxham goal, get an opportunity when Rowland brings down Brandon 35 yards out central a long way out but the shot is attempted Fullbrook seeing it wide of her right post. Perrin shifts the ball between her feet looking to gain ground attacking left can’t quite find Redfern-Christie with the pass the ball cleared straight to Betts however she has a go from distance the shot on target caught by Fullbrook. 

Wroxham Women’s, Amber Rowland

  Hyams tackles Cossey to concede a corner on the right as Holloway looks to roll the ball on for Cossey. Swung into the box the ball is cleared.

  GOAL! The hosts make it a double figure score-line with the game closing in on the final 5 minutes Russell having scored a brace in the first half with two well taken strikes saves her best  till last time on the ball from all of 30 yards out hits it cleanly sending it flying in over the keeper to complete her hat-trick 10-0.

  Wroxham are full of confidence the stuffing knocked out of their opponents pace in every attack get it out from the back rapidly into Birchall 25 yards out not closed down lines up her shot, Smallbones has had to keep picking herself up and produces yet another excellent save to send the ball wide. Symonds off in the closing stages on comes Victoria Pleavin at the back. Birchall central 25 out receiving the ball into her feet lays it off for Bullard to strike her shot swerving wide of the right post. Evans charging down a shot from Bullard inside the box as the hosts push on looking for more goals. 

  Holloway making some good runs with the ball through the middle sends the pass on for Birchall top of the area right side turns under challenge her shot sent off target behind goal. Cossey with a punt from 30 yard out late on falling wide across goal. The Wroxham attackers getting clear too easily in the closing minutes Kettering down and out, Birchall away, Smallbones not letting her get a strike away rushing out to meet her as she enters the box sliding in to save with her legs. The final whistle blows.

Full time Wroxham Women 10-0 Kettering Town Women

  A comprehensive 2nd half display from Wroxham with 4 goals in 9 minutes at the start of the 2nd period to take the game away from their opponents. Having had the better of the first half eventually going on to lead 2-0. The next goal is often crucial in these games and Wroxham took the game by the scruff of the neck. The display and goals seeing their energy levels remain high an confidence grow. Their defence rarely troubled worked well as a unit throughout the match Kettering finding it tough to break down. The scoreline sapping their energy didn’t offer a threat in attack and inviting Wroxham on made for a tough game came have little complaints, a very harsh scoreline, all you can do is dust yourselves down and move onto the next one, their league campaign is still 3 weeks away no doubt fitness levels played a part. 

Wroxham Women winning their opening game of this season FA Women’s Cup 10-0

  The draw for the next round already made Wroxham will now play King’s Lynn Town Ladies away from home on Sunday 20th September.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the new season. Rarely is it an easy choice and today is no exception. Several displays of note to mention, firstly for Kettering, Lauren Handley looked like she could cause problems for Wroxham especially first half with some good tackling and runs. Jade Smallbones too I know it sounds odd when a keeper has conceded 10 but she nevertheless pulled off some brilliant saves that kept that score down might well have been 15-0. For Wroxham the team produced a dominant attacking display whilst being disciplined at the back, have laid down a marker for the season already. Kayleigh Holloway was excellent linking up with Laura Dawson who attacked well down the right. Becky Russell with three great strikes on her Wroxham debut making some great runs from midfield, nudging her out though is the other hat-trick debutant Zoe Cossey made an instant impact coming on 2nd half and took the game away from the opposition.

 Great to e back covering games looking forwards to the season ahead, was terribly rusty today my notes more shocking than usual but I wrote far too much as usual. Enjoyed my first trip to Trafford Park and will no doubt be back at some point. My thanks as always to the teams for providing me with the squad details much appreciated.

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 16th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Storm Ciara blew through the country last weekend wiping out the women’s football fixtures lists and hot in it’s Storm Dennis arrived promising another weekend of disruption this time around, a case of leaving it to the last minute to see what games might hold out, Norwich City Women announcing their game was on it was a short trip to The Nest in the north of the city to watch their Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-final clash against Wroxham Women.

 The Norfolk Women’s County Cup final played at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road ground for the first time last season the trophy won for a 2nd successive season by Wymondham Town Ladies, the holders were looking to make it 4 county cup final appearances on the bounce as they took on Sprowston Ladies in the other semi-final match beating the weather this weekend. Carrow Road to host the final once again this season a huge opportunity for both today’s opponents. 

  Norwich City Women dominating the County Cup in Norfolk at the start of the decade withdrew from the competition for a couple of season’s returning to compete a couple of seasons ago falling in the early stages on the previous two ocassions against King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Acle United Women last season now Wroxham Women. Norfolk’s leading league placed sides competing in FAWNL South East Division One are in a period of transition to a degree bringing in alot of youthful players with a strong experienced spine within the squad. Striker Chelsea Garrett amongst the goals this season has 18 to her name so far. Reaching a Carrow Road final would be a dream come true.

  Wroxham Women are a new name for an experienced side making the move from Acle United an established side in the ERWFL Premier Division a league below the FAWNL South East Division One. Have been warmly embraced and supported by Wroxham FC as they look to push on further within the women’s football pyramid. Have a striker too prolific in attack this season Grace Birchall leading the line netting 27 goals already this season from just 12 appearances. Have been frustrated by postponements in recent weeks today’s game thier first competitive action since the 19th January. Injuries to affecting the squad whilst new players coming in are ineligible to play in today’s game.

  The Nest in Horsford to the north of Norwich close the the airport the venue for today’s semi-final. Norwich playing here a few times are keen advocates for seeing the side fully developed building work ongoing in very early stages has the potential to add to good sporting facilities already dotted about the county. Had this game earmarked early on but the weather forecast meant I daren’t commit until late on and with the rainfall heavy over night had my doubts but the game was on still with rain falling all the way still wasn’t convinced, wind blowing too, very unpleasant as I headed out to the pitch, but passing inspection by the officials was in surprisingly good shape holding up well with no standing water. A good walk from the clubhouse hot drinks available. No cover wind strong and rain sweeping across not ideal playing conditions. Women’s football supporters have a tendency to appear out of nowhere 5 minutes before kick-off and a surprising number had braved the elements. Wroxham bringing a small but hardcore following who were in loud voice singing throughout the match.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Brooke Osborne, Lauren Cullum, Tigi Robson, Kate Parsons, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss (C), Rosie George, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Keunna Dill, Abbigail Tate & Sian Douglas.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Kayleigh Holloway, Chloe Shields, Lauren Bailey, Victoria Pleavin, Ciera Flatt, Lauren Bullard, Naomi Cooper, Kirstie Kindred & Grace Birchall. Subs – Kate Pasque, Mary-Anne Hoy & Leanne Symonds.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Working out how best to wield an umbrella, notepad and camera without a stand to hide in the wind was blowing the rain across the pitch so having at my back worked well abandoned the umbrella altogether with the rain lightening up somewhat the wind still strong would be a factor in the game along with a slick pitch. Norwich licking off the game wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts. Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence launched forwards, Wroxham goalkeeper, Amy Bell getting her gloves on the ball early on. 

   Bell’s kick out of goal high carried by the wind, difficult to bring under control Norwich regain possession the ball put out long on the diagonal to the left Rosie George on the flank, checks back playing it inside the ball lifted towards the box dealt with by the Wroxham defence. The early exchanges scrappy conditions difficult the wind swirling across the pitch. Wroxham make ground on the right getting forwards the cross standing up in the wind Grace Birchall inside the box can’t bring under control, the visitors pressure in the final third drawing the foul a free-kick out wide, players up from the back into the box, the ball delivered towards the near post Lauren Bailey attacking it for Wroxham can’t direct her effort on target wide behind goal. 

  Norwich play the ball out from the back a push in the back on captain Millie Daviss as she looks to head the ball on from halfway, referee Stuart Jessop playing the advantage as the ball is gathering into her stride by Natasha Snelling running on puts it through the Wroxham defence for Chelsea Garrett breaking in behind, Bell quickly out of her area winning the race for the ball launching it up field. 

Naomi Cooper playing the ball on for Wroxham Women

 Wroxham getting joy on the right captain Anna Larkins getting forwards to support the attack with Naomi Cooper a dangerous ball whipped in close to the near post cut out by Norwich’s Lauren Cullum. Wroxham quick to close down Norwich as they look to carry the ball out from the back. The wind playing it’s part ball running on for Wroxham as they attack, Norwich counter Jodie Drake sliding in to win the ball on half way forwards into Garrett’s feet, turns sees Snelling making a run the forwards past carrying too mach weight allowing Bell to come and claim. Garrett with a strike on the volley from 25 yards out racing wide of the left post.

 George on the ball good close control coming inside from the left slides the ball through central for Snelling top of the area, going a fraction too soon the flag up against her. Kayleigh Holloway back in defence for Wroxham being kept busy by Norwich’s Aimee Durrant pushing on from the right. Wroxham hustling the ball inside the Norwich half Ciera Flatt combining with Birchall and Cooper win a corner on the right. the wind getting stronger the corner delivered towards the top of the box attacked by Bailey, Durrant with her challenging bringing the ball away for the hosts can’t make any headway.

Grace Birchall getting the better of Norwich’s Kate Parson’s

  George getting on with the ball left side checking inside 25 yards out puts in a low diagonal ball looking for Snelling in the middle, Chloe Shields misses it for Wroxham allowing the attacker to steal in behind, Bell diving as she shoots stabs her attempt wide of goal. Holloway defends for Wroxham playing the ball on well pushed through for Kirstie Kindred right channel plays it on for Birchall the wind taking it on allows Norwich goalkeeper to come and claim before Birchall can latch onto it. 

  An even match both sides finding openings creating chances looking for space, Garrett this time away into the left corner with the ball flashes a cross into the box Durrant near side can’t adjust her body to get a telling touch gathered by Drake out on the right turns back to cross low fires the ball into the side netting. Birchall with an audacious attempt from just beyond the centre circle turning as she receives the ball looking to catch Armstrong unawares the ball landing wide of goal. Space fro Holloway on the left inside the Wroxham half lines up a shot her curling effort dropping safely into Armstrong’s gloves.

 GOAL! The visitors open the scoring a strong attack on the right wing Larkins away in behind bursting on drives a rising sot in on the angle Armstrong flashes up a glove to keep in out deflects the ball across her goal face dropping at the far post Birchall sliding in puts it in from close range 0-1.

Grace Birchall putting Wroxham Women into the lead

 Norwich come straight on from the restart Daviss out to Durrant on the right takes the ball on looping a high ball into the area caught cleanly by Bell. Wroxham counter coming on down the right Lauren Bullard linking with Cooper a corner kick won. A difficult one for the keeper put in under her bar Armstrong deflects it out into her six yard box comes straight to Birchall, on her quickly an instinctive header sends the ball over the crossbar. 

Grace Birchall with the instinctive header put over the bar for Wroxham

 GOAL! Norwich get straight back on level terms the ball direct put through the middle sees Garrett race away in behind the defence, Bell starts to come but realises she can’t get there, can’t get back into position in time is caught in no mans land as Garrett clinical lobs the ball over her into the back of the net 1-1.

  A good contest between Birchall in attack and Kate Parson’s in defence for Norwich the Wroxham attack always looking to get away when the ball is played forwards. Norwich pushing on gaining some momentum Brooke Osborne travelling out from the back with the ball trying her luck from distance. Drake sending a shot wide. 

GOAL! On the attack Durrant is brought down on the right outside the box the ball played into the centre of the area evades everyone comes out to the left still inside the box a vicious strike fired back in charged down deflected straight to Garrett top of the area left of the D she smashes her shot home to score her 2nd of the game and fire Norwich into the lead 2-1.

Norwich City Women’s striker Chelsea Garrett (taken in sunny times) (photo credit Brian Coombes)

GOAL! No sooner have Norwich taken the lead then they race into a 3-1 lead, cutting Wroxham open on the counter attack Durrant with space to exploit on the right drives a fierce strike low into the six yard box Birchall lurking at the far post the ball is turned into the back of their own net by the Wroxham defence.

Wroxham make the first change of the game Kate Pasque coming on at the back for Bailey. Wroxham attack on the right Kindred on for Birchall turning inside the box is adjudged to foul Cullum as she goes past her. Tigi Robson cutting out a diagonal pass from Bullard as Wroxham build through the middle. 

GOAL! A devastating spell from Norwich sees them further extend their lead the ball played forwards the game somewhat stretched to the right Durrant closing down Shields at the back as Bell comes towards the right hand corner of her area wanting the ball, defender and goalkeeper close Durrant reads it and steals in on Bell to rob the ball and walk it into the back of the net beyond 4-1.

Aimee Durrant steal in to win the ball and put Norwich 4-1 ahead (photo credit Brian Coombes)

  Wroxham well and truly on the back foot tempers flare in the middle a foul leading to pushing and shoving, Flatt and Drake both shown a yellow card. Flatt letting her frustration out with a strike from distance 35 yards out the ball looping into the box caught by Armstrong. Daviss coming on for Norwich as they press the ball on the left side fires a 20 yard shot over the bar. At the back Cullum recovers well showing good pace to catch kindred as she almost gets away from her following a great through ball from Flatt.

  A mis-hit from George top of the area, Durrant able to latch onto it her shot in held by Bell. Wroxham counter attack quickly Bullard with a good ball through for Larkins away on the right her strike from the angle hitting the top of the crossbar.

Half-time Norwich City Women 4-1 Wroxham Women

  Norwich with a devastating 15 minute spell coming back from a goal down to lead at the end of the 1st half 4-1. A even contest up to that point both sides creating opportunities coping well despite the terrible playing conditions the rain light the wind strong throughout. Norwich capitalising on some Wroxham errors with a strong advantage to carry into the 2nd half, Wroxham with alot of work to do to get back into the game will need a goal back quickly in the 2nd half.

Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway no changes for either side that I can see, the skies are brightening a little the rain easing. Wroxham straight on the attack Birchall turning on the ball looks to release Kindred ahead of her, Cullum on her shoulder muscles her off the ball. Durrant with a ball on from the right aiming to get Birchall in on the box this time Armstrong out of her box to clear the danger. Wroxham starting the 2nd half well a high ball forwards headed clear by Parsons. Lots of high ball, no one getting hold of it Drake spreading play to Durrant on the right her cross in intercepted by Pasque for Wroxham.

Kate Parsons winning the ball for Norwich City.

Wroxham win a free-kick out wide on the left Holloway on the ball played short back to Larkins lets fly from 30 yards out looks wide from where I’m standing on halfway but maybe not as Armstrong dives to her right to glove the ball behind for a corner kick. The ball from the left into a crowded near post area put wide of goal a 2nd corner awarded. This ball dealt with by the head of Parsons. 

Wroxham’s Victoria Pleavin

 Victoria Pleavin brings the ball on from the back for Wroxham allowed to drive on comes into the middle before Norwich numbers force her off the ball. The rain has stopped at last just makes the wind feel stronger. Bell with a good claim in the middle of her six yard box as Norwich flung a cross in from the right. Norwich make their first change of the match Keunna Dill coming on for Durrant, George switching to the right side. Wroxham make another change too with Mary-Anne Hoy on for Pasque. Flatt carries the ball forwards for Wroxham a strong run putting it on for Birchall giving her a run into the left channel, Robson showing great pace to get back on her and put in the challenge.

Norwich City Women’s, Keunna Dill

Space opening up as Wroxham commit in attack Norwich playing the ball though the centre for Garrett she turns playing the diagonal ball to Dill in acres of space on the left takes the ball on into the box the angle closing fires in a low strike Bell saving fantastically with her legs the ball deflected behind for a corner on the left. 

 Chances at both ends Flatt up to Birchall left 25 yards out Bullard rushing on through the centre the ball put inside she robs it off the Norwich defence stealing into the box, the final shot tame in the finish easy for Armstrong going to ground to smother the shot. George away on the right for Norwich down the line fires in a low cross at the near post Garrett there turn into the shot puts it straight at Bell. Wroxham need to get back into the game Norwich ready to capitalise going forwards. 

Wroxham Women’s Lauren Bullard

Bullard through the middle again takes the ball round the grounded keeper top of the area, Parsons back on her to put the ball behind for a corner before she can get a shot away. The corner put in near side havoc in the box Armstrong beaten as the shot comes in, Cullum keeping it out on the goal line clearing for Norwich. Larkins defending up the other end for Wroxham as Garrett looks to send the ball on through the middle. Wroxham make a third change with Leanne Symonds coming on for Bullard. 

Kayleigh Holloway looking to get after the ball for Wroxham Women

  End to end Garrett stealing in on the ball in the final third robbing the Wroxham defence into the area the angles going away from her she sends in a fierce strike Bell saving with her legs again putting the ball behind for another corner. Norwich making a change before the corner is taken Abbigail Tate coming on for Osborne, Sian Douglas on for Garrett shortly after. Bell holding onto the corner the ball forwards Birchall fouled by Robson outside the box 20 yards out to the left takes on the shot herself fires over.

Birchall determined in attack getting away from Parsons letting fly from 25 yards out central her shot swerving through the air Armstrong diving full stretch to her right the ball narrowly wide of the post. The game entering the final 10 minutes.

GOAL! Drake winning the ball as she has done all game in the middle bringing it on right side 35 yards out striking the ball sending her shot in over the keeper to seal the win 5-1.

Norwich City midfielder Jodie Drake makes it 5-1

GOAL! A blow for Wroxham late in the game and they are delivered another sucker punch straight away possession lost in the middle the ball put out to Dill clear on the left taking the ball to the byline whipping in a pacey cross into the six yard box Norwich players racing in  Snelling there to turn the ball in from close range 6-1.

Natasha Snelling further extends Norwich’s lead

Norwich with a late burst of energy tails up push forwards Daviss getting on winning a corner kick on the right.

GOAL! The corner taken short up the line on the right fired in on the angle a powerful strike clearing the keeper to smash against the far post and deflect over the line across goal. Sian Douglas with the strike to make it 7-1 scoring her first Norwich goal.

GOAL! Wroxham blown away at the end of the match as Norwich go on to score an 8th goal. Dill a constant threat on the left since being introduced to the game put clear into space to run on central releasing a shot top of the area looping over Bell her shot cannons back of the cross bar, Bell off balance tries to claim, Snelling running in on top of her nicking the ball and running it on into the empty net. 8-1.

Wroxham come on minutes left beaten keep going in attack Birchall has run herself into the ground moves out to the right to receive the ball fires in a cross along the top of the six yard box, Cooper rushing forwards at the far post can’t quite get there. Flatt advancing through the middle putting the ball onto Birchall, Robson getting across her in the box seeing the ball back to her keeper. The final whistle blows up and Norwich City Women with a comfortable final score advance to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final.

Full time Norwich City Women 8-1 Wroxham Women

  A game played in terrible weather conditions a credit to both sides for making a competitive contest out of it. An even start to the match chances for both sides Wroxham taking the lead, Norwich coming straight back to level the scores and a devastating spell saw them race into a 4-1 lead at half-time. Wroxham had to attack 2nd half and needed an early goal if they wanted to get back into the game Norwich defending well ready to hit on the counter going 5-1 up with 10 minutes to play a 2nd spell of destruction saw them hammer home the result taking them through to a Carrow Road final a truly special occasion for the club especially their senior players who have long deserved the opportunity. A disappointing end result for Wroxham but they matched Norwich for long periods of the game and created chances.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few players to mention, firstly for Wroxham, Lauren Bullard with some superb passing and runs in attack. Grace Birchall too in attack worked tirelessly to create goal scoring opportunities. For Norwich, their defence was excellent as a unit, Lauren Cullum in particular, Rosie George out wide too, today’s award though goes to central midfielder Jodie Drake a strong performance in the centre of the park breaking up play making tackles and getting forwards well to support the attack plus scoring a well taken goal.

  Norwich City Women will player the holders Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final after they beat Sprowston Ladies 4-0 this afternoon. The Final to be played on Sunday 19th April at Carrow Road an 11am kick-off, looking forwards to it already.

  Suppose it was good to get back to it after missing last weekend through Storm Ciara, enjoyed the football but certainly didn’t enjoy the weather, the notepad was well and truly soaked, along with the writer but both dried out now. My thanks to both sides for giving me the team details always appreciated.