Cup Final Special – Royston Town Women v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 30th March

Hertfordshire Women’s Senior Challenge Cup Final

Heading down to Hertfordshire this Sunday to watch my 2nd cup final of the season, this time it’s the Herts FA Women’s Senior Challenge Cup Final with holders, Royston Town Women taking on Stevenage FC Women winners of the trophy on 5 occasions over the last decade.

Looks set to be a great contest between two sides bang in form currently top and 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division. Herts FA breaking their women’s county cup into two competitions last season, with a Senior Challenge Cup being contested by the sides representing tiers 3 to 6 in the women’s football pyramid and a new Trophy competition for those sides below. Watford FC Women beating Stevenage FC Women development last Sunday to lift the trophy. The Senior competition freeing up weekends earlier in the season and trying to eliminate the heavy score lines and one sided games that can occur. A better look all round.

Today’s prize

Royston Town Women beating Watford FC Women Development 3-1 last season to win the Challenge Cup for the 1st time in their history. Recruiting well over the past couple of season’s brining in some useful experience Royston have built on that cup success currently leading the ERWFL Premier Division, 10 points clear of 2nd placed Luton Town Ladies who have 4 games in hand. Winning 15 of their 17 league games to date with just the one defeat. Also the leading goal scorers in the Premier Division pushing hard to win the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL for the 1st time. Emma Slater top scorer not only for Royston but the league itself currently with 33 goals to her names from 24 games. With, Neve Mayes, Frankie Pim and Laura Mills all reaching double figures too.

Stevenage FC Women have been a dominant force in the Challenge Cup for the past decade, winning it on 5 occasions plus plus runners-up on 3 occasions. In that time enjoying a brief stint in the FAWNL before dropping back down to the ERWFL, players coming and going have rebuilt as they look to establish themselves as a promotion contender. A run of 9 straight league wins pushing Stevenage up to 3rd in the Premier Division, a 12 game unbeaten run in all. Played in front of a record crowd of 586 at The Lamex Stadium, home of their men’s club last weekend, sees both sides come into today’s final in confident mood. Gemma Croucher, Stevenage’s top scorer, netting 22 goals so far from 23 games. Amy Makewell with 13 goals too from her 20 matches. Hannah Nebbitt on course to make her 100th game for Stevenage in today’s final.

Road to the Final

Both sides with a bye in the 1st round of this season’s competition, going straight into the quarter finals. There Royston were away to fellow Premier Division side, St Albans City Women, a brace each for Laura Mills and Frankie Pim plus strikes from Emma Slater and Erin Davies seeing them progress with a comfortable 6-1 win. Stevenage on the road take on champions elect of ERWFL Division One North, Harpenden Town WFC, a potential banana skin, Stevenage emerging on top with a narrow 2-1 victory with Gemma Croucher and Amy Gooderham on the scoresheet.

Into the last 4 Royston drawn at home taking on, Colney Heath Ladies, newly promoted to the ERWFL, making a good start to life in Division One South, came up against a Royston side bang in form however, with Emma Slater, Frankie Pim, and Neve Mayes all netting a brace in an 8-1 win, Charlotte South and Katie Hayes also scoring. Stevenage at home in their semi-final taking on Watford Ladies development newly promoted to the Premier Division, like Royston were too strong on the day with Gemma Croucher netting a hat-trick, along with goals for Chloe Gunn, Amy Makewell, Amy Gooderham and Francesca Tilbury in a 7-2 victory.

The County ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s cup final, not only home to Hertfordshire FA headquarters, beside the stadium, but also Stevenage FC Women. The ground seeing some redevelopment over recent season, an artificial pitch overlooked by the main seated stand, with a small terraced stand opposite and viewing all round, the clubhouse and café under the main stand serving hot food and drink. A pleasant sunny day as the clocks go forwards at the end of March, a stiff breeze blowing across the pitch the sun bright high in one corner of the ground may cause a few issues ( but shouldn’t complain about the sun).

Royston Town Women starting XI – Tilly Want, Amy Reed Annie Georgiou, Tally Miles, Amy Houghton, Charlotte South (C), Laura Mills, Ri Badal, Frankie Pim, Emma Slater & Neve Mayes. Subs – Stacey Roper, Jordanne Sillitoe, Jodie Donley, Lucy Ford & Katie Hayes.

Royston Town Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Lauren Reeves, Mistie Fox-Barker, Hannah Nebbitt, Lucy Webster (C), Rebecca Edge, Chloe Gunn, Hannah Bodily, Amy Gooderham, Kelsey Millen, Gemma Croucher & Amy Makewell. Subs – Chloe Gregory, Frankie Tilbury, Anaise Corrigan, Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe & Lilia Dempsey.

Stevenage FC Women

All set for an exciting contest both sides in confident mood as they are lead out onto the pitch by referee Jacob Hamilton. Royston are the home team for todays final and wearing their traditional white shirts and socks with black shorts. Stevenage in their away colours and all purple kit. Royston losing goalkeeper, Millie Carter, on loan from Sudbury to injury leading up to the game, but have a more than capable replacement in Tilly Want to don the gloves. Hannah Nebbitt starting in her 100th game for Stevenage.

Captains, Charlotte South and Lucy Webster with today’s match officials

Stevenage with the kick-off first half the ball rolled back into the middle played forwards up the right wing, Amy Gooderham on the move, Annie Georgiou at left back for Royston out to close the ball down see it out for a throw in. Royston seeing the ball across the back line to Amy Reed on the right she sends in on up the line for Emma Slater, gets on the move driving forwards, Kelsey Millen getting back at her to make the challenge for Stevenage sends the ball out of play.

A lively start from both sides moving in to close the ball down, Stevenage looking to get forwards, Chloe Gunn winning the ball in the middle, Hannah Bodily taking it on playing a crisp threaded pass into the left channel looknig for Amy Makewell pulling off the centre backs, a vital interception from Amy Houghton for Royston to prevent her getting a chance to go one on one with the keeper.

Royston defender, Amy Houghton

Royston winning a free kick on the right inside the Stevenage half, players up into the box as Tally Miles floats a diagonal ball into the box, Millen winning it for Stevenage looks to break with the ball at her feet, tackles the ball back with Miles on the right slides it down the line for Slater, Hannah Nebbitt getting across her run can see the ball out safely for a goal kick. Stevenage get forwards quickly through the middle the ball from Gooderham into Gemma Croucher central 25 out looks to lay it into the box left side with Makewell providing the run Reed stretching to cut the pass out.

Royston’s Amy Reed

Stevenage press the advantage early looking to get at the Royston defence, Gooderham powering down the right inside for Croucher, looks for Makewell in close attendance, Miles stepping in to close the ball down for Royston. Neve Mayes up front for Royston coming to the right with the ball at her feet looknig to combine passes with Slater, Rebecca Edge moving out of the middle of defence getting hold of the ball, steers it back to goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves to clear.

Ri Badal bringing the ball on through the middle for Royston attempts to float the ball into the right channel for Slater to run onto, Reeves though quickly out to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Croucher turning on the ball 30 yards out for Stevenage laying it on down the right for Gooderham, then Makewell her cross into the box cut out by Miles, Stevenage pushed up regaining possession Nebbitt on the ball left sending the ball into the middle for Croucher 20 yards out lines up a strike, Royston captain, Charlotte South charging down the strike.

GOAL! Royston have the ball at the back Miles putting it on for Frankie Pim coming inside from the left, lifts a superb ball on through the middle for Slater to attack bearing down on the top of the box, Reeves comes to the top of her area to try and close her down, Slater, knocking the ball past the keeper, taking it on into the area left of goal and slotting it into the empty net beyond 1-0.

Emma Slater knocking the ball past the advancing keeper going on to score the opener for Royston

Royston in front inside 8 minutes. Stevenage frustrated having had a good opening to the match press on Nebbitt taking the ball on down the left off Millen sending her cross inside with Gooderham making a run right of the D, 25 yards out looking to hit her strike first time blasts the ball into the box, Miles in the way to block for Royston the ball deflected away to the right.

GOAL! Stevenage with the perfect response to falling a goal behind pressing the ball high getting it out to the right with Mistie Fox-Barker taking it on sending in on for Makewell out wide level with the area lays it into the middle of the box with Gooderham breaking forwards onto the ball to strike it low past the diving keeper, inside the near post 1-1.

Amy Gooderham equalising for Stevenage

Stevenage back on level terms inside 3 minutes of conceding the opening goal. South playing the ball out to Slater racing on down the right for Royston clips a cross into the area looking for Mayes running in central, Edge getting her head to the ball first to clear for Stevenage. The game being played at a frantic tempo both sides looking to move the ball quickly Slater seeing the ball into her feet outside the Stevenage area right side attempts the back heel to pick out Mayes inside the D, looks to charge into the box, stopped by Edge the ball cleared for a throw right side.

Nebbitt coming on with the ball at her feet on the left for Stevenage forwards into Millen, shifts inside firing a low diagonal ball into Makewell inside the D, looks to hit the ball on the turn, Miles in to close her down for Royston. Mayes and Edge enjoying a good tussle as the attacker looks to muscle her way into the area, going wide Edge shielding the ball out upended for her efforts.

Croucher nipping on to dispossess Mills in the middle plays the ball out to Gooderham on the right, the Stevenage winger looks to drop her shoulder power forwards, Georgiou getting a foot on the ball to take it away from her. Competitive in the middle, Gunn and Bodily in to win the ball for Stevenage, likewise, Mills, Badal and South for Stevenage the latter getting the ball forwards into Slater on the right wing breaking down the line lifts a cross into the area, Edge winning it with her head for Stevenage to clear.

Stevenage not afraid to go direct, captain Lucy Webster launching the ball up to Croucher in attack 25 yards out back to go can’t quite get it out from under her feet before Badal challenges the ball knocked forwards however, Gooderham and Makewell both attack it top of the Royston box, Badal back to defend along side Miles getting the ball away to safety. Webster playing another teasing ball from halfway up into Croucher top of the area central for Stevenage chests the ball down into the path of Makewell ahead of her, Reed needing to close her down quickly prevents the striker taking a shot.

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

Stevenage continue to ask the questions lively out on the flanks Millen moving into the centre the furthest forwards top of the D as Makewell sends the ball into her feet shapes to go right, Badal back to help her defence putting in the tackle to deny another shot on goal. South sweeping the ball out to the left for Mayes to take on down the line getting on the move, Fox-Barker lunging in taking the ball out for a throw in.

A good contest both sides getting stuck into it, South fouling Makewell on halfway, the ball launched into the far post area, Want up well taking the ball with Makewell looking to attack it. Slater fouling Millen as the pair battle for the ball on the left just over halfway. Nebbitt to play the ball long into the Royston area, Houghton dealing with it. All action Royston break forwards the angled cross from the left travelling deep to the far post Slater racing in to attack it placing her shot high into the side netting.

Stevenage’s Kelsey Millen

End to end Stevenage pressing right side the ball into Gooderham top of the area, goes down under challenge, a pause in play and unfortunately Gooderham can’t continue looks to be an ankle injury as she is helped down the tunnel Stevenage making a change, with Lilia Dempsey coming on she runs over to the left side with Millen moving to the right. Mayes looking to link up with Pim on Royston’s left flank, before sending a cross high into the box, Edge under it to clear for Stevenage.

Emma Slater on the attack for Royston

Miles playing the ball on through the middle for Royston into Mills lays it out to Slater right of the box some 25 yards out clips a high looping ball in on the Stevenage goal, Reeves back on her has the sun right behind the strike but keeps her eye on it well claiming it high back on her line. Webster able to travel with the ball for Stevenage tries her luck from range her shot racing in low narrowly wide of the left upright.

The game opening up at time as both sides over commit going forwards, Royston hitting Stevenage on the counter, Mills out to Georgiou getting on down the left wing sends it forwards into Pim, Edge coming across the box to put in the tackle see the ball away to safety. Webster sending her pass up to Croucher in attack back to goal 25 yards out sees it down off her chest into the path of the advancing Makewell who strikes it on the run seeing her effort fly over the Royston crossbar.

Amy Makewell

Houghton tackling Croucher inside the box as Millen sends the ball in from the right. Mills taking the ball forwards for Royston moving right has Slater with her sending the ball on, Dempsey back to help defend for Stevenage, the ball cleared but soon back with Royston as it is played in across the top of the area, Gunn tangling with Mills top of the D, giving away the free-kick. In a dangerous position it’s Mills over the ball taking on the shot gets it through everyone bearing down on goal Reeves diving to her left down to push the ball away, wide of the post behind for what is the first corner of the game…

Lauren Reeves saving Laura Mills free-kick

GOAL! Royston are quick to take the corner, Stevenage barely set players already up from the free-kick the delivery lifted in high close to goal, the keeper attempting to punch, knocks it down straight into the onrushing Neve Mayes to deflect the ball past her into the back of the net to see Royston retake the lead late in the first half 2-1.

Neve Mayes scoring from the corner to put Royston back into the lead.

GOAL! Stevenage were quick to respond to falling behind from the opening goal, even quicker this time as they get on the attack from the restart Nebbitt on the ball left side playing in infield to Makewell who in turn sends it on for Croucher charging onto space in the left corner, holding onto the ball well sends it back up the line into Nebbitt’s feet, some 30 yards out takes on the strike from the angle lifting the ball into the air, right behind it so know it could cause the keeper problems dropping at the far post, Want cant get a glove on the ball as it drops over her under the bar in the corner of the goal see Nebbitt celebrate her 100th appearance for Stevenage with a goal! 2-2.

Hannah Nebbitt congratulated by her teammates as she scores on her 100th appearance for the club

Into stoppage time at the end of the first half Stevenage winning a free-kick top of the circle as South brings down Makewell. The delivery high into the far post area knocked down into the six yard box, straight to Gunn, can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to get a stab at goal before the blocking tackle comes it the ball played clear of the box. Both sides battling for possession some strong challenges coming in two committed sides, Maye picking up a blow late on but okay to continue as the first half draws to a close with the sides level.

Half-time Royston Town Women 2-2 Stevenage FC Women

Twice Royston took the lead, and twice Stevenage responded with a quick fire reply to see the sides going into the changing rooms all square at the break. A lively and entertaining first half filled with action, both sides committed getting after the ball wanting to get forwards. Stevenage with a positive start pushing on asking the early questions only to fall behind as Emma Slater knocked the ball past the onrushing keeper to score. Amy Gooderham firing Stevenage straight back onto level terms, chances for both sides some good battles out there, Royston retaking the lead from a corner only to concede straight away late in the half. Promised to be a cracker and has lived up to expectations all poised for the 2nd half.

No changes for the 2nd half, Royston to get the 2nd 45 underway, should the scores remain level after 90 minutes then the final goes straight to penalties. Royston playing the ball back to South central she launches it into the right channel with Reed bursting forwards hitting the ball first time on the move from 25 plus yards out, doesn’t catch it cleanly scuffing it through to the keeper for a simple gather.

Royston midfielder, Ri Badal

Royston looking to be more positive at the start of the 2nd half press the ball higher look to get it into the channels. Mayes rushing onto Webster, stealing the ball off the defender to charge in behind lay the ball on for Slater pulling away to the left, Edge going with her going to put in the block as she pulls the trigger, deflected off her, Fox-Barker unable to prevent it going for a corner kick. Swung in across the six yard box to a crowded far post the ball is knocked back down across goal with Fox-Barker covering the left post clearing the ball off the line.

Stevenage thread the ball on through the middle into Makewell in attack, does well to spin off Miles take the ball in behind the centre back however her defensive partner Houghton is around on the cover to getting to the ball ahead of Makewell to play it back to Want to kick clear.

Continues to be all action, South picking out Slater breaking down the right her cross swung into the area, cleared by Edge for Stevenage. Stevenage break from a Royston throw in the corner, Makewell in attack on for Croucher into Millen left side, Reed getting a tackle in the ball deflecting off her behind for a corner kick. Curled in at the near post knocked up into the air turned behind for a 2nd Stevenage corner on the left, this one taken short up the line the cross into the box from deep taken well by Want high at her far post.

Royston captain, Charlotte South

Royston getting hold of the ball better 2nd half Badal laying it on for Mayes breaking into the area left of goal, Webster going with her getting across the attacker well to shield the ball out of play. South controlling the ball in the middle for Royston dinking it on for Pim coming inside from the left 25 yards out attempts to play a looping shot up over the keeper, doesn’t get enough on the shot, Reeves collecting it cleanly.

Stevenage goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves

Stevenage making a change, bringing off Millen, send on Anaise Corrigan to join the attack. Bodily stealing in to rob the ball high for Stevenage laying it off to Croucher left corner of the area her attempt from the angle blocked by Houghton the rebound comes to Bodily who takes on the shot her low effort straight at the keeper.

Gemma Croucher bringing the ball on for Stevenage

Free-kicks continue to be given away Stevenage winning on wide on the left, Makewell over it firing a vicious ball in wide of the far post. Royston hit Stevenage on the break Pim left inside for Slater central, Pim going past her on the overlap left sends a cross in along the top of the opposition area Mills rushing onto the ball right of the D, striking from 20 yards out the keeper dives as the ball races past her going out of play off the post.

Slater coming down the right knocking the ball inside Nebbitt as she goes to tackle, pushing the ball into the area, Mayes coming for it tangling with Edge the defender hurt as she gets the ball away but up okay to play on. Remains a good contest the ball never still both wanting to get on with it, Dempsey left crossing the ball into the six yard box Makewell at the near post looking to knock the lay off down central but no one has made the run.

Stevenage’s Mistie Fox-Barker

Mills and Gunn tangling again, Mills winning the decision top of the circle, Miles over the set-piece hit long to the left, Fox-Barker deals with the ball under pressure from the advancing Pim. Midway through the 2nd period Royston better 2nd half pressing the ball played out to Slater deep on the right, looks to fight her way into the box, is brought down by Gunn the referee pointing to the spot. Penalty!

GOAL! Slater picking herself up placing the ball on the spot taking the penalty kick, nothing fancy a short run up striking the ball low and hard to the keepers left, Reeves goes the right way gets a faint glove on the ball but not enough to keep it out as Slater fires Royston back into the lead for the 3rd time in the contest 3-2.

Emma Slater congratulated as she puts Royston back into the lead

Royston making a change straight after the goal bringing off Maye in attack, sending on Jordanne Sillitoe. Edge putting her body on the line diving in hurt again as she defends on Slater as Badal looks to play the ball into her feet. Corrigan and Dempsey taking the opportunity to switch flanks as Edge receives treatment. Is getting a little heated out there, Sillitoe picking up the first yellow off the game.

Stevenage’s Lilia Dempsey

Miles in to close Croucher down 20 yards out left of the D as she looks to cushion another ball down off her chest from the left. Forward quickly helped on to Slater bursting away down the right flank for Royston her cross, flung in towards the near post collected by Reeves.

Tally Miles

Reeves has to get there as she comes rushing out to the top of her area a Pim slides the ball on for Sillitoe to attack, gets there in the nick of time to clear the ball.

Goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves getting the the ball in the nick of time as Jordanne Sillitoe races in

Reed putting in the block for Royston inside the area as Corrigan drives forwards with the ball on the left for Stevenage breaking into the box shoots, turned off the full back for a corner kick. The delivery inviting curled in high at the far post, Edge getting up well to head the ball down towards goal blocked by the keeper and full back, deflected behind for a corner on the right…

GOAL! Players staying up as Stevenage play a short corner a player coming out towards the ball rolled back to the taker to send in a cross from the angle high towards the far post, Want jumping going up looking to get hold of the ball even as 3 Stevenage players attack the ball, not taken the ball bundled over the line, the keeper sent tumbling, a goal signalled Stevenage wheel away in celebration equalising for a 3rd time in the match, Edge with the telling touch to make it 3-3.

Rebecca Edge scoring Stevenage’s 3rd equaliser

Want stays down, concern for the goalkeeper as the trainers rush on to give treatment, the goal keepers union in full show too as Carter on crutches shows she can cover the ground quite effectively on one leg. A pause in play time taken, Royston have already lost one keeper don’t want to lose another but thankfully Want is okay to continue the game back all square with a little over 15 minutes left to play.

Royston making a change none the less bringing off Pim send Lucy Ford on to take up a position on the left. Stevenage fired up having gotten themselves back on level terms press forwards lose possession as Royston counter Bada sending the ball on for Slater on the right, Corrigan tracking back doing the defending for Stevenage.

Edge charges down Sillitoe as she goes to pull the trigger from the right of the D off a Slater cross from the right wing. The clock ticking down the threat off a penalty shootout looming, Corrigan with the ball at her feet left side driving forwards for Stevenage, pulled back by reed, the full back earning herself a yellow card. Badal coming off for Royston, Katie Hayes entering the game late on.

Makewell over the free-kick deep on the left side, another vicious ball in towards the far post strikes the upright, Want saving more by luck than anything else as the ball cannons off the post straight into her defected wide out to the right before being cleared. Royston look to get on down their left Ford with Sillitoe winning a free-kick.

GOAL! Miles over the ball looks to launch the ball in to the box, except she pulls it into the left channel instead, at least that was what I was about to write thinking Stevenage would see it safely out of play however, Sillitoe has other ideas as she races after the errand ball controlling on the by-line and turning back inside to send a dangerous ball in across the six yard box, coming to the far post where Mills has gotten herself free to meet the ball perfectly and send her header back in across the keeper to see Royston back in front for the 4th time in the match 4-3.

Laura Mills firing Royton into a 4-3 lead late in the game

3 minutes of regular play left, Stevenage send on Matilda Thomas-O’Keefe replacing Gunn, shortly followed by Chloe Gregory on for Nebbitt. Royston looking to attack a long throw out on the left, Ford up to challenge winning a corner off a defender. Defended at the near post deflected on across goal before being turned over the crossbar.

Sillitoe strong on the ball fighting for possession up front for Royston, into stoppage time. Mills defending as Makewell looks to get forwards. Croucher onto the loose ball her effort blocked from outside the box. Stevenage needing to get the ball forwards, Royston looknig to run the clock down, Sillitoe hauled down by Edge. Royston not making the most of the set-piece.

Jordanne Sillitoe

Reed recovering well at the back as Corrigan threatens to races past her as she takes the ball on into the box left side, Reed putting in the lunging block to see the ball turned behind for a corner kick. Everyone bar the keeper up for Stevenage into the box seconds left for find a goal force a penalty shootout, curled into the six yard box dropping down into the six yards box, scrambled clear back with Stevenage wide left the cross comes in under the bar, claimed well by Want as the final whistle blows and Royston celebrate as they successfully retain the county cup.

Full time Royston Town Women 4-3 Stevenage FC Women

Can’t beat a 7 goal thriller and in a cup final too! Great for the neutral, promised to be a cracking game and didn’t disappoint. All action, these two sides developing a healthy rivalry between themselves. A full on contest Royston leading the game on 3 separate occasions only for Stevenage to come back into it level the scores, the 4th goal late on one too far however Stevenage never gave up and the result was never in the bag right to the final whistle. Royston making it back to back county cups as they look to chase down the ERWFL Premier Division title. Stevenage missing out on one cup with a league cup final to look forwards too as well as playing a big part in the title race too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a few contenders for this one certainly and hard to make a final call. A few performances to mention, firstly for Stevenage, Rebecca Edge at the back with a strong game, winning the ball well, putting her body on the line and intercepting crosses. Hannah Bodily in the middle linking up play between defence and attack well throughout, Amy Makewell with some great positional runs in attack along with Gemma Croucher getting into space to receive the ball keep Stevenage on the front foot. For Royston, likewise, Tally Miles was solid at the back winning the ball well and getting it forwards early, several well timed tackles and interceptions. Charlotte South with some good midfield runs won the ball well, alongside Laura Mills who found some useful positions on hand to score the winning goal. Ri Badal with a strong midfield game too, getting about the pitch to help out in defence and get her side going forwards. The award goes to Emma Slater set the tone early on with her positive attacking runs driving at the Stevenage defence a ready outlet throughout scoring twice.

Congratulations to Royston Town Women on winning the Hertfordshire Women’s Senior Challenge Cup for a 2nd successive season.

Royston Town Women, Hertfordshire FA Women’s Senior Challenge Cup winners 2024/25

More often than not when a game on paper looks tasty it fails to deliver, but not today, this was a cracking contest, a 7 goal thriller action from start to finish a contest between two in form and confident sides, never done and dusted, Royston lifting the trophy for a 2nd time, but Stevenage are already focused on getting to the final again next season and getting their hands back on the trophy. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today and to the staff at Herts FA for their assistance, enjoyed that one!

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Luton Town Ladies Reserves v Stotfold Women

Sunday 23rd March

Bedfordshire FA Women’s Junior Cup Final

A trip down into Bedfordshire this Sunday to watch my first cup final of the season. Beds FA hosting their inaugural, Women’s Junior Cup Final, with Luton Town Ladies Reserves taking on Stotfold Women for the trophy.

Bedfordshire FA following their neighbours in Hertfordshire by splitting their County Cup competition into 2, with the teams playing at various levels across the county divided between the Senior and Junior Cups, this having several advantages, gives teams lower down the pyramid a better chance to compete for silverware, hopefully reduces landslide score lines that does no one any favours and frees up Sundays to get other matches played. The Senior County Cup final dominated between Luton and Bedford in recent season’s the final taking place at Kenilworth Road just this Thursday in front of over 1000 supporters, Real Bedford Women beating Luton Town Ladies 5-0 to lift the cup.

The new Junior Cup featuring those sides playing across the county leagues tiers 7 and below, Bedfordshire seeing a study growth in new women’s sides in recent season’s those sides playing in a combined Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire county league set-up consisting of 4 divisions.

Today’s prize

Luton Town Ladies Reserves the exception to that in that they play in the Greater London Women’s Premier Division. Currently 8th in the table, have had a tough campaign league wise 2 wins from their opening 11 games, have however pulled clear of the drop zone with back to back victories coming into today’s junior cup final and will be buoyed by recent performances. Sanam Shahid their top scorer with 10 goals to her name from 13 appearances, Carla Todd and Shakeela Hussain both with 6 goals each.

Stotfold Women return to Kempston Rovers FC after almost a year back then celebrating winning the Beds & Herts League Cup. That victory in their debut season have continued to show great form coming into this season, currently 2nd in the Premier Division table 3 points behind leaders Hitchin Belles Women Blues with a match in hand. Reached the least 4 of this season’s League Cup, eventually bowing out in a penalty shootout with Ware United Ladies. Amber Olney and Charlotte Peters providing good competition for the top scorer spot with both on 11 goals from 14 games. Millie Fraser has 8 from her 13 appearances while Amy Jack is on 6 goals.

Road to the Final

15 clubs entering the new Beds FA Women’s Junior Cup, both Luton Town Ladies Reserves and Stotfold Women progressing straight to the quarter finals awarded home wins respectfully. Into the last 8, Luton Town Ladies Reserves were drawn at home to new side Leighton Woodside Women emerging as one of the title contenders in Beds and Herts Division Three, won 2-0, a brace from Shakeela Hussain seeing Luton into the semi-finals. Stotfold Women too were on home turf for their quarter final taking on Beds & Herts Division One side Real Bedford Women Development a potential tricky opponent, a single goal in the 2nd half from Charlotte Ryan enough to secure the win for Stotfold to advance to the last 4 of the competition.

Luton Town Ladies Reserves away to Beds & Herts Division One side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses, the visitors scoring twice in the 2nd half, Luton though were on target for three goals, with Caitlin O’Connor, Monet-Grace Wille and Sanam Shahid all or target to send the home side through to the Junior Cup final. Stotfold Women also on the road for their semi-final clash taking on fellow premier Division side, Biggleswade United Women Development, goals from Bonni Woodward, Millie Fraser, Charlotte Peters and Amy Jack seeing them comfortably through to the final courtesy of a 4-0 win.

Kempston Rovers FC the venue for today’s Junior Cup final. A large grass pitch with a slight slope from one goal mouth to the other, the clubhouse open up the steps leading to the main stand providing some seating and terracing under cover with standing viewing all round. Artificial pitches always busy beside the main pitch. The kitchen hatch open too serving hot food and drinks. An overcast day as we enter spring, not overly warm will rain showers likely during the match.

Luton Town Ladies Reserves starting XI – Leah Robinson, Hannah Major, Erin McGovern (C), Patience Ndlovu, Chloe Gibbs, Lilac Wilson, Caitlin O’Connor, Carla Todd, Bailey Plumbridge, Shakeela Hussain & Sanam Shahid. Subs – Scarlet O’Dell, Tierra Brookes, Kimberly Newns, Keira Richards & Monet-Grace Wille.

Luton Town Ladies Reserves

Stotfold Women starting XI – Orlagh Daly, Hollie Sibbett, Chloe Keller, Charlotte Ryan, Bonni Woodward, Amy Jack (C), Cleo Haynes, Millie Fraser, Leigh Burrows-Hall, Charlotte Peters & Amber Olney. Subs – Amelia Bacon, Keira How, Gracie Applin, Nieve Buckley & Maizie Marsh.

Stotfold Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Today’s referee Sarah King and her assistants with team captains, Amy Jack and Erin McGovern

It’s Luton who will take the kick-off in the first half wearing orange coloured shirts with a vertical white band on the front, navy shorts and orange socks. Stotfold wearing their away colours purple shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball rolled into Lilac Wilson in midfield she launches it up into the right channel for Sanam Shahid to have an early run at the defence, Charlotte Ryan intercepting the ball at the back and clearing for Stotfold.

Cleo Haynes getting hold of the ball in the centre of midfield for Stotfold driving forwards, has Leigh Burrows-Hall making a forward run into the right channel, looks to play the ball through to her, a little too much on it, Luton goalkeeper, Leah Robinson can come out to the top of her box to get an early feel of the ball.

Cleo Haynes with an early attack for Stotfold Women

Robinson’s kick up field, mis-read by the Stotfold back line allowed to bounce, sees Shahid suddenly interested darting after the ball, Bonni Woodward, getting her head on it to send it back to her goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly before she can pounce. Stotfold moving quickly to launch a counter attack the ball rolled on for Haynes breaking down the right side, the cross inside to the top of the area, Amber Olney looking to run onto the ball, Robinson again sharp out to the top of her box getting down to smother the ball.

Luton making a lively start getting plays forwards quickly Bailey Plumbridge out on the right, taking the ball on seeing her cross snubbed out by Woodward. Luton winning a free-kick on halfway, players up to the top of the area as Wilson sends the ball in, Woodward winning the header turning the ball on her Daly to claim.

Another long kick forwards by Luton causing issues at the back for Stotfold, as Shahid looks to use her pace to get after the bouncing back, Daly calling racing out of her defence to put her foot through the ball, ends up smashing it into Ryan, the ball rebounding back of the defender to race wide of the left post for a corner kick.

GOAL! A great ball in from the corner on the left swung into the six yard box met by Caitlin O-Connor centrally getting a touch with her head to knock the ball down towards goal evading everyone to roll over the line and open the scoring 1-0.

Luton with an early lead making a fast start to the game inside 5 minutes, Shahid and Shakeela Hussain up top looking to drive at the defence with Plumbridge and Carla Todd pushing up on the flanks, that pushing Stotfold’s midfielder deeper, captain Amy Jack nipping in to regain possession for Stotfold on to Haynes in the middle takes the ball on lifting it up to Olney in attack, Chloe Gibbs moving in to close her down 25 yards out, her central defensive partner Patience Ndlovu on hand to clear the ball.

Todd bringing the ball on up the right for Luton, checks inside, Chloe Keller getting back on her to get her foot on the ball knock it out of her path, jack bringing in forwards for Stotfold, into Charlotte Peters, Wilson preventing the ball going forwards setting Luton back on the attack. Stotfold looking nervous early on not settled, Luton looking to capitalise pressing high.

Jack fouling O’Connor as she brings the ball on right side for Luton, the free kick inside the Stotfold half, played into the box by Wilson, Todd right of goal seeing down flashing a shot low into the right post, Daly down sharply to push the ball away to her right, not cleared, Luton turning it back in across the six yard box, Plumbridge after it running in beyond the far post, Hollie Sibbett there to get the block in turn the ball behind for a corner kick.

Haynes strong on the ball as she looks to drive through the middle for Stotfold, ends up getting fouled brought down by Ndlovu. The set-piece lifted in towards Peters positioned left of the D outside the box, gets her head on the ball, but can only drop it straight into Robinson’s gloves.

Plumbridge looking to burst forwards on the left for Luton, is upended winning the free-kick, takes it quickly herself playing the ball forwards onto Hussain central, shoots from outside the box and sweet strike threatening to angle in over the keeper, Daly though with a superb piece of goalkeeping, lean back throwing herself up to tip the ball over her crossbar. Another warning for Stotfold though caught off guard by the quickly taken free-kick.

Stotfold goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly.

Luton snapping after the ball unsettling Stotfold forcing them deep, Jack helping her defence the midfield compressed, leaving Olney with too much to do up top when the ball is cleared up to her. Shahid caught offside as she looks to race in behind the defence as captain Erin McGovern wins the ball at the back for Luton setting up a rapid counter attack.

Shahid with the ball at her feet powering forwards for Luton coming left plays it on for Plumbridge on the wing, held up by Sibbett, sends it back inside for Shahid central 20 yards out helps it on for Hussain to her right, Hussain taking on the shot from the top of the area right of goal, drilled in low, Daly diving across her goal to push the ball out to the left, Woodward in to close Plumbridge down as she looks to go after the loose ball.

Luton’s Shakeela Hussain

Luton travel with the ball through the middle, O’Connor with Wilson played on for Hussain to attack in the right channel, Woodward looking to turn, comes together with Hussain, from my angle it looked like the attacker had impeded the defender, but my angles not the one that counts, the decision going the other way, with Luton awarded the free-kick. A dangerous position right of goal the ball swung in on target high, Daly again making the save tipping the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

GOAL! From the left the ball curled into the near post Shahid meeting it with her head turning the ball in towards goal, blocked on the line by Jack covering the near post heading the ball down into the middle of the box, The ball loose players rushing to meet it, Luton arriving first the ball stabbed off the turf to smash up against the crossbar, then as it lands Todd meets it on the follow up in front of goal to turn back across to the left of goal, Daly down to try and stop it not getting enough of the ball as it crosses the line to see double Luton their advantage 2-0.

Sanam Shahid’s near post header about to be cleared of the line by Stotfold captain, Amy Jack

However Luton keep the attack alive Carla Todd firing them into a 2 goal lead

Stotfold conceding a 2nd goal on 16 minutes responding with a change, Keller coming off with Burrows-Hall going over to left back, Keira How coming on to take up a position on the right. Involved in the action straight away as Haynes looks to play the ball on down the right winning a throw high up the pitch. Stotfold winning a free-kick central around 35 yards out, Millie Fraser over the ball, sends it on on target but a straight forward catch for Robinson back on her line.

Sanam Shahid on the attack for Luton

O’Connor winning the ball back on the right for Luton inside the Stotfold half puts it forwards into Hussain 30 yards out, drags the ball across her body before unleashing a strike the ball racing wide of the left post. Ryan winning the ball well at the back for Stotfold giving it to Haynes in midfield, looking to take the ball on purpose sends it into the right channel for How to attack, Luton captain, Erin McGovern lunging in on her to send the ball out for a throw in high up the pitch.

Stotfold getting players up to attack the throw finds in way in centrally, hit from range by Olney, Robinson called on to make the save pushing the ball away to her right. Luton making a change bringing of Shahid in attack on comes Monet-Grace Wille. Stotfold finding a bit of momentum going forwards with Fraser sending the ball forwards into Olney moving into the left channel, has Peters up with her, Hannah Major getting her foot in to turn the ball out for a throw in.

Luton advance up the right, O’Connor linking up with Major and Todd eventually bringing a corner kick. From the right another vicious delivery turned in near post, Jack dealing with it for Stotfold. who look to break, through the middle, Major stepping up well to make the challenge keep her side in an attacking position Burrows-Hall, needing to lunge in to put the ball out for a throw as Todd looks to take the ball up the wing.

Luton’s Caitlin O’Connor

Haynes making several strong runs on the ball for Stotfold driving through the middle, loos for Olney ahead of her, Gibbs cutting the pass out for Luton. Wilson crossing from deep on the right for Luton up to Hussain making a run to get into the box, Ryan with a well timed tackle inside the area to take the ball from her.

Keira How and Luton captain, Erin McGovern give chase to the ball

Jack passing to How getting forwards for Stotfold into the right channel forcing Luton into conceding a corner kick. Swung in high across the six yard box, Olney rising centrally getting a glancing header turning the ball wide out to the left, retrieved by Stotfold played back in central to Haynes, looks to play it into Jack right of goal, just a little too much on the pass.

Luton remain a threat on the counter attack full of pace, Plumbridge lively out on the left flashing the ball forwards, Ryan with a vital interception at the back, or risk Hussain, breaking in behind to go one on one with the keeper. A few spots of rain in the air as Stotfold get on well down the right Burrows-Hall up with Peters and Olney winning a corner kick.

Cleo Haynes battling for possession with Luton’s Monet-Grace Wille

Leigh Burrows-Hall on the ball for Stotfold

Into the final couple of minutes in the first half, Stotfold pushing hard late on to find a goal getting players into the final 3rd working the ball across the pitch winning a throw high on the right, have a long one in their arsenal. Ryan from the angle on the right fires a shot wide high past the far post. Stotfold looking to press high in the closing stages of the first half, Olney central with Haynes 20 yards out, goes down appears to have rolled her ankle, needing treatment isn’t good news can’t continue, comes off with Nieve Buckley sent on.

Jack and Petters combining on the left for Stotfold, with How moving across to offer her support, can’t find a way through into the Luton box as Major gets a foot on the ball to clear up field.

Half-time Luton Town Ladies Reserves 2-0 Stotfold Women

Luton leading 2-0 at the break as the sides head back to the changing rooms with a little rain in the air. Luton making by far the better start lively from the off running at a nervous looking Stotfold back line scoring inside the opening 5 minutes, snapped in to win the ball keeping their opponents forced back, Daly calling into action saving on a couple of occasions, before Luton snatched a 2nd goal from a contentious free-kick. Luton good value for their lead Stotfold making a change slowly working their way back into the game finding it tough to get plays on to support Olney up front in attack, the game more even in the final 2o minutes of the 1st half. A 2-0 score-line useful but another goal early in the 2nd half makes things alot more comfortable, Stotfold though know if they can score early they are right back into it too.

Needing to protect the camera from the elements have retreated to the cover of the stand for the 2nd half. Appears to be no changes for either side as Stotfold get the 2nd half underway the ball rolled back to Woodward in defence lifts it forwards into the right as How breaks forwards, Gibbs winning the header to play the ball out for a throw in for Luton. Woodward again with the ball at the back for Stotfold sends it on into the right wing for Olney to try and chase down, gets a useful nick off a defender to see the ball run out of play for a corner kick.

GOAL! Players up from the back, as the delivery from the corner out on the right is served on a plate in central head height, Woodward running in on it unmarked stooping her head to drill it on past the keeper before she can react to pull a goal back straight away in the 2nd half 2-1.

Bonni Woodward powers home header header to pull it back to 2-1 for Stotfold

Just what Stotfold were looking for at the start of the 2nd had pulling a deficit back to a single goal. Luton complaining about a push the officials consulting but nothing doing the goal stands. Stotfold buoyed by the early goal snapping in to win the ball in the middle, Buckley with Fraser played on for Olney moving to attack the right wing, McGovern closing her down to clear the ball for Luton.

Amber Olney looking to get forwards for Stotfold

Stotfold giving free-kicks away. Wilson over one on half way, Wilson over it clips a diagonal ball in toward the right of the D, Peters getting up to head the ball away to safety for Stotfold. O’Connor bundled over a heavy knock is down in need of treatment, but after taking a few moments is okay to continue, Robinson over the free-kick clips the ball long out to the right, intercepted by Peters however Stotfold look to counter quickly Peters attacking with the ball on the left as the keeper rushes to get back into position, Peters going on her own eventually squeezed off the ball before she can get into the box try to shoot.

Stotfold’s Charlotte Peters

Both sides keen to get on the counter attack the game opening up a little, Luton sending Hussain away on the right channel, Woodward coming out to close her down challenging to the ball out for a throw in. Luton working the ball into the middle. Wilson 25 yards out going to line up a strike, Jack with the blocking tackle. Luton with pace on their flanks getting players up to support the attack quickly. Stotfold needing to keep players back or risk exposing gaps not as well equipped to get players forwards to support Olney up to as she looks to run the ball down, Gibbs and Ndlovu in the centre of defence able to double up on her.

Luton goalkeeper Leah Robinson claiming the ball

Wilson using the ball well for Luton in the middle has good option s left and right to spray the ball about the park, Plumbridge away on the left driving for the box, Woodward on her shoulder doing enough to see her force her attempted strike wide at the near post. Stotfold unhappy to with decisions going against them coming out wrong side of a few 50/50 challenges. Peters with support from jack out on the left sliding the ball up the line for How, the flag going up against her however a close call, leads to manager Tom Olney venting his frustration and getting shown a card by the referee.

The game livened up both sides going for it, O’Connor shifting the ball between her feet sliding Plumbridge in down the left wing driving on Woodward out to close her down challenging to send the ball out for a throw in. McGovern stopping a Stotfold attack on their right, lays the ball infield to Wilson who in turn looks for Hussain in the right channel, Ryan throwing a leg out to intercept the ball for Stotfold.

The game end to end, Plumbridge flagged offside on the left as Hussain looks to play her in behind. Light rain falling Luton keeping Stotfold pushed back in defence, Wilson moving the ball Plumbridge bursting away on the left, into the area bearing down on goal, Ryan racing across to put in the block does enough to put the winger off as she fires her shot into the side netting.

Luton attacking players up on the right, Wille with Todd into the box for Hussain, meeting it on the volley angling her attempt over the bar. Woodward going in to win a 50/50 ball with Hussain on halfway is aggrieved as they concede another free-kick. Luton come right, Todd with O’Connor the ball crossed into the near post Hussain looking to meet it on the half volley back to goal a difficult one to control turns the ball behind for a goal kick.

Keira How attacking on the left for Stotfold

How and Olney willing runners up top moving into the channels but closed down by the Luton defence before support can arrive from midfield. Wilson with the ball central for Luton sweeping the pass into Plumbridge on the left, Sibbett going in to make the blocking tackle, deflects the ball on as Plumbridge chases it to the by-line fires in a cross along the face of goal, cleared by Burrows-Hill at the far post.

How played onto the ball up the left wing for Stotfold turns inside to loops a cross into the top of the area, Peters looking to head the ball on across goal, but grabbed up by the keeper. Hussain coming over to the left linking up with Wilson and Plumbridge for Luton the cross angled into the area cleared by Woodward. The rain falling more steadily as the game moves into the final 15 minutes, Luton bringing off Hussain send Shahid back on up top.

Luton midfielder, Lilac Wilson

Fraser on for Olney attempting to force her way into the box centrally, Ndlovu stepping in to take the ball off her feet. Luton counter with pace O’Connor up on the right linking up with Plumbridge and Shahid coming to the ball crossed into the near post Stotfold’s Ryan clears.

Stotfold captain, Amy Jack

Jack aggrieved this time as Stotfold give away the foul outside the box to the right of their goal as O’Connor is brought down. Wilson over the set-piece, clipped into the far post knocked down into the six yard box, Stotfold manage to scramble it clear. Stotfold off a throw on their left sees Peters play it into Fraser who hooks an inviting ball into the box bouncing near post, How looking to jump in to attack it the bounce favours the goalkeeper however as Robinson claims it high above her head.

Luton defender, Chloe Gibbs

Into the final 5 minutes of regular play time running out for Stotfold to at least score an equaliser force the final into a penalty shootout, Luton however looking to more likely to score and put the game to bed. Stotfold up on the right to win a corner comes into the area, Jack going down even as Luton clear look to break asks the question but nothing doing however even as Woodward blasts a distance strike over from all of 25 yards out.

Fraser pushed on further for Stotfold in the latter stages of the game as they look to find a goal. Fraser playing Olney onto the ball right side, McGovern challenging putting the ball out for a throw before the cross can be attempted. Buckley on for Olney in the left channel has How with her the pair attempting to get the ball on into the area, Ndlovu getting in between them to wrestle back control of the ball.

Luton’s Patience Ndlovu

Fraser with a neat piece of control as the ball comes into her quickly 20 yards out from goal right side her low shot lacking the pace to trouble the keeper. Kimberly Newns coming on for Luton as the look to play out the remaining minutes of the game. Jack shown a yellow card for Stotfold as another free-kick goes against them time almost up Plumbridge coming off to be replaced by Keira Richards for Luton. The free-kick from deep on the right lifted into the far post claimed by Daly.

Fraser with a speculative effort from 25 yards out for Stotfold, collected cleanly by Robinson in the Luton goal. Into stoppage time Major coming off for Luton with Scarlet ( just the one E) O’Dell coming on. Luton looking to hold the ball up in the corner know the final whistle is imminent bring off Todd send Tierra Brookes. Stotfold can’t get the ball up the pitch for one final attack as the whistle blows and Luton rush together to celebrate winning the inaugural Bedfordshire Women’s junior Cup.

Luton celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Luton Town Ladies Reserves 2-1 Stotfold Women

Luton Town Ladies Reserves winning the inaugural Bedfordshire FA Women’s junior Cup. On the whole a deserved win too, making a strong start to the game on the front foot with pace getting players forwards, taking the lead inside 5 minutes creating chances forcing errors unsettling Stotfold in the process, forcing some great saves from keeper, Orlagh Daly before going on to add a 2nd goal in the 16th minute. Stotfold struggling to get a foot hold up top did get themselves back into the match finishing the 1st half strong, losing Cleo Haynes to injury a blow for sure. Nevertheless came out strong 2nd half a well taken corner leading to them pulling a goal back early in the 2nd half. Luton continued to look for a 3rd goal to restore their 2 goal cushion always a threat on the counter attack, pushing Stotfold back limiting the numbers they were prepared to commit forwards, still there was but a single goal in it till the death one more clear chance never came.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match this is a tough one and even as I’m typing I’m still mulling it over in my mind still I think one player has won me over with her performance overall, Several contenders nevertheless, a few to mention firstly for Stotfold, goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly with a number of top draw saves in the first half to keep the score-line down keep her side in the game. Defenders, Charlotte Ryan and Bonni Woodward with a number of vital tackles and interceptions were kept busy throughout, Cleo Haynes with some determined runs through the middle, coming off injured could well have been the difference 2nd half. For Luton it was an all round great team performance getting into close the ball down get forwards with purpose keep on the front foot for large spells. Bailey Plumbridge marauding down the left wing a constant threat throughout, Carla Todd likewise right side getting on the score sheet. Sanam Shahid’s pace and runs causing the Stotfold defence concern, Shakeela Hussain finding some great positions to great opening for herself and her teammates. Caitlin O’Connor opening the scoring making some good runs from midfield getting up to support the attack. The award goes to Lilac Wilson the midfielder on hand to break up alot of play keeping her side on the front foot throughout the contest, had good passing options and used the ball well.

Luton Town Ladies Reserves, Bedfordshire FA Women’s Junior Cup winners 2024/25

Congratulations to Luton Town Ladies Reserves on winning the inaugural Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup

An entertaining first cup final contest of the season always enjoy my trips down to Kempston Rovers FC. My thanks to both sides for their assistance with the team details today, and to the staff at Beds FA for all their help as always it is very much appreciated. One down a whole bunch to go, can’t do them all but will sure do my best to cover as many as I can.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Newmarket Town Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 16th March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

A busy weekend last time out meant the football got squeezed out of the schedule after a late call off, so good to be back at it this Sunday was we move well and truly into the business end of the season, with the cup final places up for grabs, headed to Newmarket to watch one of the semi-finals of this season’s Cambridgeshire Fa Women’s Invitation Cup as Newmarket Town Women played host to Cambridge United Women.

On paper a good looking last 4 in the competition with Histon Ladies hosting Cambridge City Women in the other semi-final. like Newmarket, Histon are enjoying a strong season in ERWFL Division One North 3rd and 4th in the table respectfully, having both reached the Invitation Cup final themselves in recent seasons, could prove tough opposition to their Cambridge opponents who have been dominant in the competition.

Newmarket Town Women reaching the Invitation cup Final for the 1st time back in 2022 losing at the Abbey Stadium to Cambridge City Women. Are enjoying a decent season in ERWFL Division One North, now the longest established side in the league, up into 3rd spot among a trio of sides hoping to chase down leaders, Harpenden Town Women who hold a decent advantage. A Development side backing up the first team along with an U18s side Newmarket have a proud history of bringing through youth players into the senior women’s sides.

Have advanced into the last 4 of this season’s Invitation cup without kicking a ball, granted home wins over Manea Sirens A team and Leverington Sports Ladies respectfully in the previous rounds. Millie Docking, Newmarket’s leading scorer, dual signed with Cambridge United with 14 goals from her 20 appearances this season. Katie Spiers close behind on 12 from her 18 games with Holly Corley, captain Katie Walker and Abbi Griffin (another ex-Cambridge United player before returning to Newmarket) all on 5 a piece.

Cambridge United WFC long established in tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid, now enjoying closer ties with the men’s club, the leading club women’s football in the county. Have enjoyed success in the Invitation Cup, Cambridgeshire’s Senior County Cup competition, dominating it along with Cambridge City Women. The senior team not always taking part in the competition, their U18s entering the competition last season, reaching the final missing out to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Enter this season’s competition with a mixture of U18s who play in the JPL league set-up and first team players. Allowed 5 regular first team players, plus any who have played less than 50% of the clubs fixtures, or have been out injured for a month or more.

9th in the FAWNL South East Division One table, amongst a cluster of sides jostling for mid-table places in what has proven to be a highly competitive league this season. Bella Simmons top scorer with 14 goals from her 20 games, attacking midfielder, Alysha Stojko-Down, has 9 goals from her 18 matches. Ran out 10-0 winners away to Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies in the Invitation Cup before going onto beat holders Whittlesey Athletic 2-0 at home in the quarter finals.

The Tristel Stadium, home of Newmarket Town FC the venue for today’s semi-final, the cork based artificial pitch seeing alot of action, hosting a number of teams and training sessions. overlooked by a covered seated stand beside the changing rooms and clubhouse with the bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drinks. Spring is almost here and the weather calm and pleasant, overcast with some cloud cover but no rain forecast during the match.

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Ellie Sturgess, Ailie Rennie, Liv Caffarelli, Abi Gibson, Katie Walker (C), Abbie Corbyn, Abbi Griffin, Niamh Bridgeman & Katie Spiers. Subs – Holly Corley, Eden Kirby-Cook, Evonne Yerrell & Kara Wayman.

Newmarket Town Women

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, Olivia Welham, Lauren Rouse, Gisella Otten (C), Alysha Stojko-Down, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Becca Stephenson & Erika Lempek. Subs – Millie Docking, Emelia Reinhardt, Katie Walter, Holly Plummer & Sydney Daniels.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Ironic that Newmarket’s leading goal scorer, is on Cambridge’s bench this afternoon, but such is the nature of a dual signing. The hosts themselves bringing players through to the 1st team from the Development and U18s this season, have a good blend of youth and experience, while for Cambridge the set-up of the side calls for the same balance. Newmarket to kick-off the 1st half wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks with Cambridge lined up opposite in their away kit, a floral patterned sky blue shirt with sky blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle hit long bouncing into the opposition box for Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults to get an early touch.

The ball played out to defender, Lauren Rouse moving right launches it forwards down the wing for Charlotte Gillies to chase down, knocks it on pace as she drives forwards squaring the ball across the top of the D, picking out the run of Becca Stephenson, recently signed on dual registration from Needham Market, left of the D 20 yards out, gets her shot away as a defender lunges into to try and block, the ball swerving wide of the left upright.

A lively start to the match, Cambridge looking to press Newmarket on the ball, get play turned around quickly, Gillies and Stephenson making positive runs in the flanks, Holly Dryland tackling Stephenson as she attacks on the left lifting the ball forwards, looking for Niamh Bridgeman in attack, the pass intercepted by Cambridge’s captain, Gisela Otten at the back.

The ball being pinged about the park a high tempo start to the game, Newmarket come left, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, moving in to tackle, Abbie Corbyn on the wing, getting it forwards into Erika Lempek, another new signing for Cambridge, out on the wing looks to control the ball spin off her marker, is instead fouled by Liv Caffarelli winning the free-kick. Stephenson getting about the final third looking for the ball for the visitors shifting play out to Gillies running in behind on the right wing clips a cross long across goal, collected safely by Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary.

Caffarelli at the back for Newmarket getting a foot in to dispossess Stephenson as she gathers the ball into her feet inside the left channel. The Newmarket defence busy as Cambridge regain possession in the middle, come back at them. Hjaltun-Rayner on the right playing the ball forwards for Gillies, Ellie Sturgess getting back on her to slide in take the ball out for a throw-in.

Newmarket’s Liv Caffarelli and Cambridge’s Erika Lempek challenging for the ball

Serena Cobb linking up with Alysha Stojko-Down in the middle for Cambridge the ball fed forwards into Lempek back to goal left of the D, turns well on the ball driving towards the box, attempting to lob Szary as she comes racing out to close her down, the goalkeeper getting something on the ball. Newmarket captain Katie Walker carrying the ball on through the middle has Corbyn ahead of her, giving her the ball, plays in on for Katie Spiers up top pulling away to the right trying to get into the box, Olivia Welham the 3rd of Cambridge’s recent signings putting in the tackle at left back to deny the shot.

Newmarket captain, Katie Walker

Walker sending a shot over from all of 25 yards out as Newmarket get players forwards probing the top of the Cambridge area. The ball rarely still, Cambridge nipping in to win the 2nd ball, laying it forwards Cobb on for Gillies right side driving down the line Sturgess with her sliding in to play the ball out for a corner kick. The corner put into the near post cleared back to the corner taker, fed back inside to Rouse, top of the area, Dryland going in to close her down in a 50/50 challenge, comes back to Gillies out on the right, flashes a teasing cross through the six yard box, missed by two Cambridge players running in at the far post.

The ball, zipping about the pitch, Gillies with pace out on the right, Sturgess closing her down to prevent the cross. Ella Marden linking up with Stephenson on Cambridge’s left flank, sending the ball down the line for Stephenson to chase down, racing to the by-line turns into the box, her cross, blocked by Caffarelli turned behind for a corner kick. A fantastic ball curled in from the corner, Cambridge unable to get a head on it at the far post to turn home, the hosts bring the ball down and launch a rapid counter the ball fired long up the left with Spiers pulling into space to receive the ball, Cambridge stretched at the back, Welham does well to get across to tackle Spiers send the ball out for a throw.

Cambridge’s turn to break getting the ball into Stephenson moving left linking up with Marden and Lempek, top of the box, challenged by Caffarelli, the ball cleared back to the left won back by Cambridge the shot blasted in on the angle, wide at the far post. A lively opening 15 minutes to the tie.

Cambridge midfielder, Serena Cobb

GOAL! Cambridge get the ball forwards into Stephenson’s feet on the left wing a burst pf pace to drive on down the line squaring a cross into the area, near side Lempek looking to hold off a defender back to goal, Szary making the call to come and lay claim to the ball doesn’t get there as the pass is squeezed inside for Gillies to take a touch central and stroke the ball into the empty net 0-1.

Charlotte Gillies opening the scoring for Cambridge United

Abi Gibson on the ball through the middle for Newmarket sends it on for Spiers in attack, looks to turn off, Otten, Cambridge’s captain, stretching out a leg to deny her the ball. Quick to get the ball forwards a long pass finding Stephenson breaking away on the left, taking the shot on from the angle, rising, Szary throwing up her gloves tipping the ball over for a corner kick. The visitors remain lively in attack, Stephenson moving across the top of the box taking the ball on for Gillies on the right forwards for Lempek right of the D, the flag up however as she strays offside.

Newmarket’s long clearances posing an issue for Cambridge to deal with, Spiers looking to capitalize in attack for the visitors pull into the channels, Rouse challenging as she links up with Corbyn on the left. Spiers letting another long ball run on past her in behind to see Bridgeman bursting clear into the box right of goal, sends her shot straight at Shults for a comfortable save, a warning for Cambridge nevertheless.

Newmarket attacker, Niamh Bridgeman

Newmarket pressing high get caught on the counter attack, the ball lifted on for Gillies to break clear away to attack on the right, racing for the box, Sturgess does brilliantly to recover having the pace to get back at the winger chase her down and clear the ball. Newmarket advancing on the right Abbi Griffin putting a long angled cross into the area, Corbyn racing in beyond the far post, does well on the volley stretching out a leg to deflect the ball onto Hjaltun-Rayner to see it behind for a corner kick.

Ellie Sturgess barely in the frame does well to get back to deny Charlotte Gillies a shot on goal

Curled into the six yard box from the left, Shults rising amongst the crowd to punch the ball away to the right, hurts herself in the process, but after a pause in play is able to continue. Walker winning the ball in midfield for Newmarket playing it out to Griffin on the right swings a dangerous cross into the Cambridge box, Spiers stretching for it in the middle can’t quite reach it, Corbyn running in beyond the far post, throwing out a leg and direct the ball back across goal, out for a goal kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

Walker chips the ball up to Corbyn out on the left outside the area, closely marked by Hjaltun-Rayner, the ball escaping beyond the pair loose inside the box, Bridgeman alert in behind to try and attack it, Shults getting down to gather the ball into her body before she can get a touch.

A defensive coming together from Newmarket high up the pitch on the left sees, Lempek race away with the ball at her feet into the channel striking the ball from 20 yards out her effort racing wide of Szary’s left post. Stephenson getting hold of the ball centrally for Cambridge looking to travel with the ball moving in field, Griffin putting the tackle in for Newmarket.

Cobb getting forwards to win the ball for Cambridge keep the pressure on in the final 3rd out to Stephenson on the left up with Marden, inside for Lempek, Walker back to defend for the hosts.

GOAL! Approaching the half hour mark and Cambridge double their lead the ball from Cobb rolled into Lempek, back to goal in the left channel feds it out to Stephenson racing past her on the left bearing down on the area, Szary rushing out to the corner of her box to try and close the angle, Stephenson knocking the ball past the keeper, running on beyond her to fire the ball into the goal beyond to net her 1st Cambridge goal. 0-2.

Becca Stephenson doubling Cambridge’s lead

Newmarket conceding a 2nd goal look to get the ball forwards quickly their long balls still causing Cambridge a few issues, Hjaltun-Rayner enjoying a good battle with Corbyn as she looks to get on down the hosts left wing, the Cambridge full back winning the ball twice in quick succession.

Cambridge winning a corner on the left, have played in some teasing deliveries, again curled in Otten rising centrally to head the ball down towards goal, Szary with a sharp save stopping it on her goal line.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

Sturgess has been kept on her toes by Gillies on Cambridge’s right, stretching out her leg to take the ball from the winger as she looks to power forwards. Cambridge with a corner on the right in short to Gillies top of the area fired into the six yard box, blocked, Newmarket launching it clear, high up the pitch, Welham the last defender has to win it, or risk, Spiers going through one on one with the keeper, the defender composed to win the ball.

Newmarket defender, Ellie Sturgess

Cambridge getting Stojko-Down onto the ball central, plays a through ball up to Stephenson making a central run in behind, Szary comes racing out of her box needing to get there, just about snatching her clearance into the middle, Cambridge snapping back to win the ball out to Gillies on the right 25 yards out tries to capitalize on the keeper being out of position, fires her angled shot wide across goal.

Late in the first half Cambridge winning a free-kick deep on the left, fired in long to the far post, Gillies trying to meet it on the volley a difficult chance can only turn the ball behind for a goal-kick.

Half-time Newmarket Town Women 0-2 Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge leading 2-0 at the break getting forwards well to keep the Newmarket defence busy, winning the 2nd ball in the middle and turning play around quickly. The barely rarely still. Charlotte Gillies opening the scoring in the 16th minute, Becca Stephenson put through to double the lead on the half hour mark. The game played at a high tempo Newmarket’s long clearances causing a few issues defenders on both sides putting in a number of crucial tackles and interceptions. Cambridge in a good position will be looking for an early goal in the 2nd half to take full control of the semi-final, Newmarket still firmly in the game however will be looknig for the early break through themselves to put themselves right back in the game.

Changes for both sides at half-time, Newmarket bringing on Holly Corley for Bridgeman. Cambridge making a double switch in attack bring in Millie Docking and Emilia Reinhardt in place of Gillies and Lempek. Cambridge to kick off the 2nd half, the ball rolled into Otten, sends it long, Szary gathering it into her gloves for the hosts. Walker bringing the ball on for Newmarket central playing a diagonal ball forwards looking for Spiers, pulling left, the pass cut out by Rouse at the back for Cambridge.

Newmarket’s Katie Spiers

Otten stepping in to tackle Spiers as the Newmarket attacker attempts to drives forwards with the ball through the centre. Rennie with the ball at her feet at the back for Newmarket sending on long up the right for Dryland breaking forwards on the flank driving on with the ball clips a cross low into the near post, caught by Shults.

Cambridge continuing where they left off first half looking to get the ball forwards with pace, Docking and Reinhardt looking to break in behind, Stojko-Down looking to play in Marden in the left channel, Caffarelli getting her foot in to cut the pass out for the hosts behind for a corner eft side. Another vicious delivery curled in centrally just over Otten rising in the middle of the six yard box, Szary beyond pushing the ball out to the top of the area.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten

Cambridge lively Reinhardt with pace to burn bursting in behind the defence top of the area, Szary rushing out to try and close her down, Reinhardt attempts the lob Szary getting a glove up well to deflect it away to the right, caught out of position as Reinhardt goes after it right of goal, defenders racing back to cover the exposed goal, Reinhardt shoots low for the bottom left corner, the shot blocked on the line turned behind for a corner kick.

Curled into the six yard box, dropping down into the mix scrambled away to the left. Cambridge pushing hard Otten winning the ball high laying it into the left channel for Marden looking to get away down the wing, Dryland back to challenge, however the attack halted by a raised flag.

Newmarket full back, Holly Dryland

Reinhardt’s pace a threat for Newmarket as she races through in behind as the visitors capitalise on a poorly struck free-kick, Szary again out to close her down sliding in Reinhardt stabbing the ball past the advancing keeper, but so to the right post.

Millie Docking on the attack with Emilia Reinhardt for Cambridge

GOAL! No sooner has Reinhardt had one opportunity to score she is presented with another for Cambridge as Welham wins the ball at the back for the visitors, played forwards into Reinhardt looking to pull off the Newmarket defence right channel racing into the box, let’s fly before Szary can set herself sending the ball past her into the back of the net to add Cambridge’s 3rd on 57 minutes 0-3.

Emilia Reinhardt firing home Cambridge’s 3rd goal

Cambridge getting the ball back in the middle Cobb combining with Stojko-Down on for Stephenson advancing down the right wing to the touch line puts in the cross, Caffarelli turning it behind for a corner kick. Swung into the near post from the right cut out cleared to the top of the area Cobb inside the D getting hold of it for the visitors sliding the ball forwards for Stojko-Down breaking clear right side of goal, Szary out to close her down sliding in the pair colliding the ball knocked on across goal, cleared off the line. Both Stojko-Down and Szary up okay after their collision.

Newmarket making a treble change bringing off Caffarelli, Corbyn and Spiers, with Bridgeman back on along with Eden Kirby-Cook and Kara Wayman on the hour mark. Reinhardt up top for Cambridge charging in behind inside the right channel, forcing Szary to come racing out of her box to try and close her down just about gets there the ball skipping up off her turned on into the box eventually put behind for a corner even as Cambridge complain to the referee over a potential hand ball outside the area but no given.

The corner fired into the near post met by Stojko-Down who heads it wide. Cambridge’s turn to make a treble switch bringing off Hjaltun-Rayner, Rouse and Welham, on come Katie Walter, Sydney Daniels and Holly Plummer. Stojko-Down playing the ball forwards to Marden left side, Rennie defending the ball out for a corner kick. Swung into the six yard box, Szary up well amongst bodies to punch the ball clear.

Alysha Stojko-Down

Walker sending the ball out to Griffin pulling right for Newmarket knocks the ball forwards before clipping a cross into the box, Shults up to claim it centrally. Griffin winning Newmarket a free-kick out wide on the right, takes it herself a great delivery in across the six yard box at an inviting height but no one can get a touch as the game moves into the final 20 minutes.

Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

Stephenson caught as she looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Cambridge. Stojko-Down with a effort from range struck wide of the right post. Newmarket fighting hard getting bodies up looking to find a way through on goal, Walker getting onto the ball pressing forwards left channel, Walter coming in to close her down for Cambridge. Dryland coming off for Newmarket, as they send on Yvonne Yerrell. Griffin looking to link up with Gibson for the hosts taking the ball right Plummer tackling for Cambridge.

The game entering the final 10 minutes Cambridge making a double substitution bringing Gillies and Lempek back on in place of Marden and Stephenson. Lempek involved straight away as she looks to break clear off the defence on the right channel, it’s Gibson who gets back to make the challenge for Newmarket.

Newmarket midfielder, Abi Gibson

Newmarket not sitting back trying to keep Cambridge contained feel they can get something from the game pushing players on Griffin right linking up with Bridgeman the ball helped inside to Corley top of the D, moves to the left unleashing a shot, Shults getting down to make the save.

Rennie at the back for Newmarket with a well timed tackle on Lempek as the Cambridge attacker drives for the box left of the D. Reinhardt coming to the left sending the ball inside for Lempek initially missed by the defence Rennie is around on the cover to get to the ball first roll it back to her keeper to clear.

Newmarket defender, Ailie Rennie

Stojko-Down with another strike from distance powered wide of the left post as the ball is cleared up to her. Spiers back on for Newmarket late on. Reinhardt fouled on the left as she brings the ball forwards. Stojko-Down over the set-piece launched towards the far post, Szary up well to claim the ball.

The crowd appealing for a hand ball as Newmarket attack on the left the cross turned behind inside the box for a corner instead. Curled into the near post Cambridge cleared to the top of the area 25 yards out Spiers onto the ball looking to tee up Walker left of the d 20 yards out leaning back as she shoots fires her effort high.

Into stoppage time Stojko-Down is fouled by Walker picks herself up to take the set-piece to the left angling the ball in towards the far post Otten pulling off the defence misses it as it flies past the keeper out for a goal kick.

Full Newmarket Town Women 0-3 Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge advancing to the Invitation Cup Final, where they will face Histon Ladies as the tier 6 side beat Cambridge City 4-1 to reach the final. Being played at Cambridge City FC’s new ground in Sawston on Weds 30th March. Cambridge leading 2-0 at the break, making a strong start to the 2nd half looking for an early goal to extend their lead and settle things down. The game nevertheless played at a frenetic pace, the ball never still. Newmarket battled well tried to get themselves a foot hold back into the game but Cambridge had the experience on the pitch to keep things tight in defence.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. plenty of contenders once again. Several performances to mention, first up Newmarket captain, Katie Walker, fighting for the ball in the middle of the park looked to get forwards link up with the attack. Ellie Sturgess had a battle on her hands with Charlotte Gillies on the right but got in a number of tackles and covered the ground well. Abi Gibson too winning her fair share of tackles in the middle. For Cambridge their captain too with a strong game, Gisela Otten winning the ball at the back, reading the game well. Serena Cobb and Alysha Stojko-Down pressing the ball winning it high in the middle keeping Cambridge constantly on the front foot. Charlotte Gillies carrying a threat on the right with her pace driving with the ball opening the scoring. Flo Hjaltun-Rayner at full back winning her fair share of the ball, played some great balls forwards. Emilia Reinhardt made a real impact coming on 2nd half her pace troubling the Newmarket defence and gave Cambridge the momentum going on to add the 3rd goal. The award today goes to Becca Stephenson, already has one for Needham Market this season. Got Cambridge on the front foot early on getting hold of the ball and driving forwards whether it be down the left channel on centrally looked to make things happen link up her fellow attackers and getting her 1st Cambridge goal too.

An enjoyable afternoon at the Tristel Stadium at fast paced game my thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always much appreciated, entering the business end of the season the cup finals beginning for me this coming Sunday.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Chesham United Women

Sunday 2nd March

FAWNL South East Division One

Beginning March with some football action from FAWNL South East Division One, travelling down into Suffolk to watch AFC Sudbury Women as they take on Buckinghamshire side, Chesham United Women.

South East Division One representing tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid, proving to be really competitive this season, with 9 of the 12 sides tightly clustered earlier in the campaign taking points off each other. A clearer picture at both ends of the table now as we move into the last few weeks of the season. Norwich City Women, Chatham Town Women and newly promoted real Bedford Women the title contenders with London Bees making a late push to get involved, at the other end Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and London Seaward FC occupy the relegation places and are well adrift of the rest.

I’ll be honest here and tell you I expected AFC Sudbury Women to be down there again this season fighting relegation, unless they strengthened with some shrewd recruitment over the close season. And I am glad to be wrong on that count as they have done just that and as a result had a strong campaign well clear of the bottom as a result. Entering their second season in the FAWNL following back to back promotions from the ERWFL, their young talented squad doing fantastically well. AFC Sudbury investing in their academy rebuilding their women’s section to emerge as a challenger to Ipswich as a leading force for the woman’s game in the county.

Adding to their debut season in the FAWNL, Sudbury have brought in some usual experience mainly from local rivals Needham Market, signing the likes of ex-Ipswich player, Ellie Rossiter, Ex-Cambridge midfielder, Amber Cantwell and attacker Lina Nagib. Also bringing in Ipswich and Philippines’ international goalkeeper, Nina Meollo on loan off the back of a fantastic season with Cambridge City. Despite a opening day loss, Sudbury went on to enjoy an 8 game unbeaten run see them pushing the top runners in the league. Have since lost Cantwell to a serious injury, but added to the squad with more usual experience with Sheryce Slater and Lucy Loomes coming to the club from Needham Market along with Jade Barrett previously with Cambridge City. Back to back defeats have stifled their push for the top spots dropping to 8th amongst the chasing pack will be looking to get back on track today to finish the season strong. Jessica Allen the top scorer netting 9 from her 11 games while Jasmin Drake and Lina Nagib have 4 goals each.

Chesham United Women travel to Suffolk in good form having turned their season around struggling at the wrong end of the table since winning promotion to tier 4 in 2022 looked to be in danger of getting caught up in a 3 way tussle at the bottom with Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and London Seaward FC taking just 4 points from their opening 11 games however began to turn it around back in December coming into 2025 in great form unbeaten in 5 matches winning 3 and drawing 2 to pull clear of the bottom, a narrow 1-0 loss to leaders Norwich ending that run are now 11 points clear baring a complete disaster are likely to be safe, and can focus on finishing the campaign strong.

Gemma Fraser a prolific goal scorer for Chesham, is once again top scorer this time around netting 19 times from her 20 appearances, top scorer not only for Chesham but the league itself to date, and should she score this afternoon it would be her 250th for the club. Natalia Makowska is the next highest scorer with 6 goals to her name. One of the leading clubs in the Berks & Bucks area, with a number of youth teams and U18s side.

The MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’s tie, the stadium boasting a state of the art 3G pitch, overlooked by the clubhouse and seat stand housing the changing rooms beyond, the bar open along with the kitchen serving hot food and drink, A terraced stand on the opposite side with covered standing behind both goals. Construction work taking place leading into the main stadium with the grass pitch beside the carpark being redeveloped making way for a second artificial playing surface. At last the sun was out a bright and sunny afternoon with no wind, pleasant, although the sun lowering in the sky likely to be an issue dropping behind one goal.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Nina Meollo, Sophie Jeffrey, Ellie Rossiter, Aliyat Lambe, Sheryce Slater, Leonnie Bezant (C), Maisie Goodwin, Megan Edwards, Alex Penny, Eva Frazzoni & Jasmin Drake. Subs – Ronni Harrison, Phoebe Guiver, Jade Barrett, Amy Jarvis & Lucy Loomes.

AFC Sudbury Women

Chesham United Women starting XI – Nicole Spittle, Sasha Smith, Melissa Porter, Ania Koscielska, Victoria Collett, Rebecca Fraser, Niamh Euman, Maisie O’Shea, Natasha Smith (C), Natalia Makowska & Gemma Fraser. Subs – Madelene Wright, Kiyana Fryer, Olivia Henry, Sophie Bishop & Steph Weston.

Chesham United Women

Captains Natasha Smith and Leonnie Bezant with today’s match officials

Leonne Bryant captaining, Sudbury with Ronni Harrison having been out for a lengthy spell through injury making it onto the bench for today’s match. The hosts also without top scorer Allen and Lina Nagib. It’s the hosts to kick-off the first half attacking into the sun, wearing yellow coloured shirts and socks with blue shorts. Chesham lined up opposite wearing claret coloured shirts with white fronts and blue trim, likewise with their shorts and socks. The ball played back into the middle, sent long out to the right wing for Alex Penny to chase, defended by Chesham’s Melissa Porter out for a throw.

The visitors get the ball moving out from the back quickly a cross-field ball finding captain Natasha Smith running into space on the right, plays a first time through ball forwards splitting the Sudbury centre backs that sees striker Gemma Fraser run onto the ball left of the D top of the area pulls the trigger as goalkeeper, Nina Meollo fresh from duty with the Philippines national team comes to close the angle, going down gets something on the ball to take the sting off the shot as it creeps past her heading for the empty goal, Sophie Jeffery is around on the cover to clear the ball away to the right.

Gemma Fraser stealing in between the Sudbury defence to create an early opportunity

A lively start, Sudbury looking to build out on their right, Ellie Rossiter getting forwards looking to link up with Penny, Chesham moving in to close the ball down. Another clipped ball over the top sees Natasha Smith looking to break in behind the Sudbury defence get hold of the ball, but for Meollo rushing out to the edge of her box to get hold of the ball first. Jeffery left for Sudbury forwards into Megan Edwards is tackled by Natasha Smith the Chesham captain turning play around sliding the ball forwards into the channel as Gemma Fraser comes across to receive the ball 25 yards out jinks right the left looking for a opening as she closes in on the area unleashing a vicious strike swerves into the side netting at Meollo’s near post.

Chesham captain, Natasha Smith

Sudbury pressing the ball high looking to get players up the pitch Edwards and Penny taking players on down the wings the latter driving forwards on the right running into traffic as the Chesham defence close the door. Rossiter getting up with Penny right side, lefts a cross into the near post, Victoria Collett getting up ahead of Jasmin Drake at the near post to head the ball clear of her area.

Chesham defender, Victoria Collett

The Chesham defence deeper, Sudbury pressing bodies up around the 18 yard box the short ball coming in central to Eva Frazzoni 30 yards out, takes on the shot a tame effort running straight through to Nicole Spittle in the Chesham goal. Gemma Fraser moving across the back line looknig to provide the outlet for a pass as Chesham break out of their defence, lifted into her path as she bursts down the left wing squares a cross into the area cut out by Aliyat Lambe at the back for Sudbury.

Sudbury getting hold of the ball in midfield, captain Leonnie Bezant with Maisie Goodwin forwards into attacker, Drake, central 25 out drives with the ball, Sasha Smith lunging in with the tackle to win the ball back for Chesham. Frazzoni combining with Bezant centrally for the hosts played back to Lambe as the defence pushes up, the defender looking to float a ball out to the left for Edwards, Sasha Smith intercepting for the visitors.

Sudbury probing Rossiter lifting a ball on for Drake to latch onto in attack outside the D drives forwards into the area, messy as she goes down in a coming together with a defender, asks the question but nothing doing the referee signalling play on. Lambe bringing the ball into the Chesham half forwards into Penny in the right channel sends it on as Rossiter storms past her on the overlap on the angle sends the ball wide of the near post.

Jasmin Drake with the ball for Sudbury

Edwards doing well to keep the ball in play on the left for Sudbury turning inside to break down the wing, held up plays it back up the line to Goodwin who n turn passes inside for Jeffery, inside to Bryant who gives it to Lambe in space 30 yards out to her right, not closed down takes on the strike blasting the ball wide of the far post. Drake with a forceful run into the left channel winning Sudbury a corner kick. Taken short into Jeffery crossed into the top of the area initially cleared by Gemma Fraser, Sudbury regain possession out on the left a low cross into the near post claimed well by Spittle.

Penny and Edwards switching flanks for the hosts, Goodwin looking to thread a pass into the left channel for Penny, a vital interception from Chesham’s Ania Koscielska. Sudbury moving in quickly to win the 2nd ball keep Chesham pinned back asking the questions, the visitors patient in defence looking for the opportunity to counter. Goodwin winning the ball well for Sudbury clipping in into the left wing for Penny speeding forwards level with the edge of the area sends a low ball in to the near post, Spittle across to cover the angle can see it run safely into the side netting.

Sasha Smith busy at the back for Chesham, cutting a high pass out intended for Penny as she makes a run on the left. Maisie O’Shea carrying the ball forwards for Chesham through the middle on for Makowska, looks to spin off Bezant release Gemma Fraser up top, Sheryce Slater intercepting the ball at the back for Sudbury.

Sudbury defender, Sheryce Slater

Sudbury winning a corner over on the left an inviting ball in across the six yard box no one can get their head on it cleared at the far post dropping to Slater top of the area, her strike charged down. Koscielska winning the header at the ball as the hosts break out from the ball lifting a high ball into the opposition area. Sudbury determined seeing more of the ball around their opponents box, Chesham dogged in defence, dangerous on the break lifted on for Natasha Smith moving right in space lays it back through the middle for Gemma Fraser surging forwards in first touch a little too strong however knocking the ball out to the right gives chase but can’t keep it in.

The pace of the game seeing fouls given away, Sudbury sending the ball into the right channel, Porter dealing with it for Chesham. The hosts winning a free-kick wide on the left inside the Chesham half, Jeffery to play the ball into the area, an inviting delivery, Spittle composed seeing it all the way not putting off by the yellow shirts around her as she catches it well above her head.

Sudbury are the ones asking the questions, however the best chances so far have fallen to Chesham as they look dangerous on the break, Gemma Fraser seeing the ball into her feet back to goal 30 yards out shifts it down the right wing to release Natasha Smith who bursts down to the by-line cutting the ball back across the Sudbury six yard box, O’Shea running in at the far post meeting it turned goal wards, Meollo on her line down sharply to make the save grabbing the ball on the line as she falls.

Sudbury goalkeeper, Nina Meollo

Edwards sending the ball out to Penny on the left for Sudbury has Jeffery going past her on the overlap giving her the ball the full back takes it to the by-line lifting a dangerous ball in across the face of the Chesham goal, cleared at the far post. Chesham working hard in defence, Makowska back to defend as Rossiter looks to link up with Penny now back on the left the ball out for a goal kick.

Rebecca Fraser nipping in to win the ball for Chesham forwards for Makowska, moves left looking to release Gemma Fraser down the left, Rossiter getting a foot in to cut the pass out for the hosts. Penny taking the ball on right channel, Niamh Euman lunging in to regain the ball for Chesham forwards into Natasha Smith, Gemma Fraser providing a run left to right across the D, just can’t pick her out.

Collett getting up ahead of Drake to win the ball with her head inside the box as Penny loops in a cross from the right. A corner for the hosts on the right defended at the near post headed on across goal, Sudbury seeing another corner won out on the left. Flung in high at the near post Spittle again up well to claim. Into the closing stages of the first half Frazzoni over to the left links up with Edwards and Jeffery the ball clipped into the box defended by Chesham’s Collett.

Gemma Fraser moving into dispossess Lambe at the back for Sudbury as she gets caught on the ball, stealing in behind left of goal to race into the area, shoots on the angle low towards goal, Meollo rushing out to close the angle getting down to make the blocking save.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-0 Chesham United Women

An interesting first half draws to a close, no doubt Sudbury have been the ones asking the questions pushing players on with the ball getting up and around the Chesham area, however it is their opponents who have had the better chances and probably should have taken at least one to lead the game. As it is the first half ends goalless. Chesham pressed back in defence with a determined display under pressure looking dangerous on the break. Sudbury bringing the ball on well winning the 2nd balls in the middle keeping the tempo up as they look to find the break through. All set up for the 2nd half can’t see it remaining goalless, Chesham have put alot into that half will they be able to keep it up 2nd half or will Sudbury’s pressing tell?

Chesham with a change at the start of the 2nd half, Steph Weston coming on to replace Makowska. It’s the visitors to get the 2nd half underway, played into Euman in the middle out to Sasha Smith right side lifted forwards for Natasha Smith, Jeffery clearing it for the hosts. Drake getting hold of the ball down the left wing for Sudbury forcing Chesham into conceding a corner kick.

GOAL! Taken short given back to the taker on the angle Jeffery out wide on the left sends a ball in towards goal, curled in under the bar, even as a defender tries in vain to clear 1-0! Sudbury breaking the deadlock with barely a minute of the 2nd half gone.

Sophie Jeffery’s shot flying in to open the scoring for Sudbury

GOAL! The perfect reply from Chesham however as they get straight back on level terms have the ball their left Natasha Smith sending a great diagonal ball up to Gemma Fraser positioned left of the D, 20 yards out cushions it down off her body inside to get away from her maker moving across the D, evading the onrushing keeper to turn inside right of goal to blast a low strike into the empty net to make it 1-1 and score her 250th Chesham goal in the process!

Gemma Fraser getting clear to score her 250th goal and equalise for Chesham United Women

Chesham straight back into the game the visitors back to defensive duties straight away having to deal with the low sun now, Euman hooking the ball clear, Sudbury soon retrieve it out on the left, Jeffery with a cross from deep angled into the area claimed confidently by Spittle. The hosts getting on well pressing bodies into the final 3rd a vicious cross wide from the left flashed in across the Chesham goal, Frazzoni running in unmarked far post can’t quite get there.

Chesham look to build an attack through the middle, O’Shea on the ball driving forwards with support from Weston the ball forwards intercepted by Slater for Sudbury. Rossiter getting forwards to link up with Penny on Sudbury’s left exchanging passes, it’s Gemma Fraser tracking back who puts the tackle in to win the ball back for Chesham. Sudbury piling on the pressure Penny with a burst of pace on the ball right side flashing a cross into the six yard box, Drake looking to turn on the ball closed down by Koscielska, Frazzoni in close attendance can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away before Collett closes her down to clear.

GOAL! Bezant on the ball central for Sudbury lifts a good ball out into the feet of Penny on the right outside the area, takes it forwards into the box flashing a cross into the far post Edwards looking to meet it at the far post six yards out her shot charged down by the defence and keeper the rebound coming straight to Frazzoni positioned centrally top of the area, hits it cleanly angling the ball back into the empty net to put Sudbury back into the lead 2-1.

Eva Frazzoni restores Sudbury’s lead

Sudbury getting bodies forwards winning a free-kick out wide on the right, angled in to the far post area, Spittle getting a glove on the ball turned behind for a corner kick. Is a teasing in swinging corner from the left, angled in across the face of goal asking to be nodded home, but no one attacks it as it runs wide out past the far post. Edwards and Penny switching sides again as Sudbury press for a 3rd goal.

GOAL! The switch bringing instant dividends as Edwards combines with Rossiter out on the right getting down the wing Edwards lashes a cross into the Chesham six yard box, Penny closing in far post meeting it turning the ball home past the diving keeper to make it 3-1.

Alex Penn scores at the far post for Sudbury

Chesham making a change as they bring off O’Shea, send Sophie Bishop on. Gemma Fraser is isolated up top at times for Chesham as the visitors a pressed back into their own area, yet she remains a valuable outlet whenever they get an opportunity to break, a diagonal ball clipped into her from the right 20 yards out left of the D the striker sees it down off her chest well to move inside to escape her marker and unleash a shot, gets too much on it however seeing the attempt dragged wide of the near post.

Porter steals in to intercept for Chesham as Bryant looks to release Penny out on the wing. A shot from distance all of 25 yards out from Sudbury takes a wicked deflection seeing it crash into the side netting. Changes for both sides, Jade Barrett coming on for Sudbury to replace Drake moves into an attacking role. Porter coming off for Chesham, Olivia Bishop entering the game.

All Sudbury breaking on the left a cross from deep, into the six yard box, Frazzoni central up to head the ball nodding it down on target, Spittle getting down quickly behind it to save on the line.

Chesham goalkeeper, Nicole Spittle

The hosts relentless coming forwards press left crossed into the middle, Frazzoni looking to nod it down for Barrett to smash home, Weston getting a foot in to clear the ball, out of the area straight to Penny 25 yards out flashes a strike wide of the left post.

Maisie Goodwin winning the ball for Sudbury

GOAL! Sudbury continue to dominate in attack, Edwards getting hold of the ball on the left, skipping past a tackle bursting on into the area firing a cross in to the six yard box evading the diving keeper at her near post travels through to Penny central to calmly slot in her 2nd of the contest to make it 4-1.

Alex Penny with her 2nd of the game extending Sudbury’s lead

Sudbury with a commanding lead midway through the 2nd half leading 4-1 and looking likely to get more as Chesham struggle to stem the tide, can’t get the ball into their attackers. Penny stealing in to nick the ball on the right drives on down the wing before flashing a cross into the six yards box straight into Barrett central can’t get it out from under her feet to unleash a shot before Koscielska closes her down with the blocking tackle.

Chesham’s Ania Koscielska

Gemma Fraser continues to pull into space on the flanks looking for the ball as Chesham try to relieve the pressure at the back, carrying it down the line lifts a cross into the box Weston making a central run the high ball however it taken by Meollo. Sudbury with a double change bringing of both Lambe and Frazzoni, Amy Jarvis and Phoebe Guiver coming on. The latter making her first appearance of the season having returned from injury.

Phoebe Guiver with Chesham’s Victoria Collett

Chesham looking to get themselves back into the game winning a throw high on the left dropping into Gemma Fraser 25 yards out sends it on for Weston ahead of her, left of the D looks to shoot curling her effort wide of the far post.

Sasha Smith fouling Penny as she looks to get clear on the right Sudbury with a free-kick in the corner, Jeffery curling it into the near post, Spittle diving to turn it behind for a corner kick. Launched in across the six yard box towards the far post the ball headed down back towards goal, bouncing, cleared of the line!

Chesham making a change sending on Kiyana Fryer into an attacking role replacing Rebecca Fraser. Rossiter laying the ball on for Penny on Sudbury’s right, fires a cross into the near post, cut out by Chesham’s Collett. Sudbury making another double change with the return of their captain, Ronni Harrison making a welcome return to the pitch, Bezant coming off handing her the armband. Rossiter off too Lucy Loomes on to make her Sudbury debut.

Ronni Harrison returning from a long injury layoff for Sudbury

The substitutes combining off a throw on the right Harrison sending the ball on for Loomes down the right battles her way to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. Loomes fouled as she’s backed into 25 yards out central winning a free-kick, is encouraged to take it herself.

GOAL! Loomes launching the ball into a packed far post area a dangerous ball in knocked down into the ground, plays going for it looking to scramble away, Edwards seeing it rebound into her feet wide of the post and flicks it back across goal to score and extend Sudbury’s lead 5-1.

Megan Edwards scoring Sudbury’s 5th goal

The goals sucking the energy out of Chesham have battled hard in defence but the pressure from Sudbury had taken its toll the hosts relentless in attack 2nd half leading 5-1 with less than 10 minutes to play. Sudbury send the ball in central from deep on their left into Guiver top of the box great skill to control the ball lay it off for Loomes to her left meeting the ball on the volley sees her strike rattle down off the crossbar!

Steph Weston with the ball for Chesham

Loomes looking to impose herself on the game winning a corner out on the right, taken cleanly by the keeper at her near post. Chesham look to get forwards Bishop with a good run on the ball though the middle for the visitors played out to Gemma Fraser wide on the left drives forwards with the ball clips a teasing cross into the Sudbury six yard box, Fryer leaping central can’t quite get her head on the ball.

Into the closing stages of the game Sudbury looking to finish strong aiming to increase the score-line Barrett in the middle now on for Penny in the right channel pushing for the by-line flashes a cross in near side, intercepted by Koscielska for Chesham. The visitors mounting one final attack Weston sending a good pass through for Gemma Fraser up top 25 yards out looks to turn move the ball to the right, Slater diving in to win the ball back for Sudbury.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 5-1 Chesham United Women

Sudbury returning to winning ways after suffering back to back losses with a clinical 2nd half performance to take the 3 points and move back into the top six in the South East Division One table. Had much of the ball in the first half but didn’t use it nor move it quick enough in the final phase, coming up against a determined Chesham defence who themselves looked dangerous on the counter creating the better chances. Goalless at the break Sudbury came out on top 2nd half getting the early break through. Chesham to their credit responding straight away to equalise but the pressure kept coming Sudbury moving the ball quickly in the final 3rd winning it back repeatedly. Retaking the lead and going on to add to the tally. Chesham fighting hard but struggling to get the ball forwards chances to counter limited in the 2nd period. Encouraged by recent results know they can dig out more points in the league. Sudbury back into the top half will certainly be aiming to stay there.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, often a hard call and it’s always nice when the notes confirm what you were thinking as you left the ground, I do write down quite a bit as you know. Several performances of note to mention of course was an intriguing contest on two fronts. Firstly for Chesham, Gemma Fraser gave it all up top moving into the channels looking to provide and outlet throughout and could have had a hat-trick on another day, scoring her 250th Chesham goal, fantastic, Natasha Smith doing her best to link up with Fraser up top with some great passing forced deeper as the game developed. Ania Koscielska and Victoria Collett at the heart of the Chesham defence with several vital tackles, interceptions and blocks. Sasha Smith covering the ground getting her tackles in to win the ball back. For Sudbury, Maisie Goodwin get stuck in in the middle to win the ball keep Sudbury on the front foot. Likewise Leonnie Bezant winning the ball high never let Chesham off the hook. Ellie Rossiter and Sophie Jeffery getting forwards from full back to over load the attack out on the flanks. Megan Edwards showing some neat footwork on the ball to get away in the wing to deliver some teasing crosses getting a goal too. The award however goes to Alex Penny the winger was a threat on either flank getting hold of the ball and taking on the Chesham defence sending in some teasing crosses and bagging herself 2 goals.

Pleased to have gotten down to Sudbury at last this season, watching from afar have been joyed with their success this season. great too to finally catch up with Chesham United Women see them in action. FAWNL South East Division One is highly competitive this season. A wonderful achievement for Chesham’s Gemma Fraser, despite the result to score her 250th goal for the club, huge congratulations. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Colchester United Women v She Can Play Panthers

Sunday 23rd February

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Heading down into Essex this Sunday to watch some action for the Essex Women’s Premier Division. 2nd versus 3rd with She Can Play Panthers travelling to take on Colchester United Women.

Very much a new look Essex Women’s Premier Division this campaign with a host of sides stepping up to join the ERWFL last season, along with a few dropping down a league and a couple of withdrawals, only Hutton Ladies Reserves still there from that campaign, with Southminster United Ladies, Chigwell Ladies and Colchester all promoted to the league along with new faces in, Brentwood Town Women, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, Hashtag United Women Reserves and She Can Play Panthers.

Hashtag United Women Reserves leading the way with today’s opponents both looking to chase them down to the title. Each side playing each other 3 times during this league campaign.

Colchester United reforming a women’s team at the beginning of last season, going into Essex Women’s Division Two, recruiting a strong squad going on to win all 20 of their league matches to romp to the title, along with winning the League Cup in their debut season. No surprise to see them go straight into the Premier Division off the back of that season. Made a strong start to the season two unbeaten in their opening 9 matches winning 7 of those before losing back to back matches against Hashtag United Women and She Can Play Panthers, bounced back well with back to back victories to take into today’s match.

Colchester’s 4th with She Can Play Panthers, who have had the upper hand so far drawing 3-3 in their first league encounter before winning twice again in the league and in the county cup by 2-0 and 2-1 score-lines respectfully. Have brought in experienced striker Jasmine Cox to bolster the attack, as 9 goals so far from her 7 appearances. Midfielder, Lindsey Morgan close behind netting 8 goals, while Jacqueline Craddock-Ball has 7 to her name and ruby Greenleaf 6 goals.

She Can Play UK was founded in 2016 with one of it’s key goals to promote and development player pathways for girls aged 8-16 at grassroots level across Essex and Hertfordshire, bridging the gap to the WSL itself. Employing an all female coaching team working a development centres and playing in the JPL. The continued growth and success of the venture leading to a women’s team being established in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this season.

Variable results to start the campaign, She Can Play Panthers have grown into the league a 3-3 with Colchester the catalyst to see the club go on an 8 game winning streak including a win against leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves that saw them briefly lead the table. Have plenty of goals in the side too, Evie Clarke leading the way top scorer so far netting 15 goals from her 11 appearances. Evie Walters as 12 goals from her 13 matches, with Georgia Maxwell-Jones closing in on double figures to with 9 from 7 games, Harriet Hudson too with 8 goals from her 13 games.

Colchester Garrison the venue for this afternoons match. Situated on a a multi sports facility with hockey pitch and athletic track surrounding the clubhouse with the bar open offering hot food and drink. Beyond that the grass football pitch itself with a small seated stand with some covering on the opposite side to the dugouts situated in front of a small embankment. Rain forecast to arrive hopefully after the game finishes their was nevertheless a keen wind blowing making things feel decidedly chilly! Blowing from one end of the pitch to the other swirling too would influence play during the contest.

Colchester United Women starting XI – Owen Hoskin, Lucy Yewman, Karys Paton, Niamh Gamble, Learna Daniels, Cassie Craddock-Ball (C), Thalia Adams, Tahlia Roome, Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, Lindsey Morgan &Ruby Greenleaf. Subs – Leah Pope, Ellie Cahill, Ruby Vinton, Emily Ager & Billie-Jo Williams.

Colchester United Women

She Can Play Panthers starting XI – Meredith Kitchen, Shannon Simpson, Rebecca Denis (C), Aimee Burling, Ella Little, Molly Dodd, Evie Walters, Fran Ali, Hayley Halford, Harriet Hudson & Evie Clarke. Subs – Lily Davenport, Sammie Kuski, Kat Clifton & Danielle Ware.

She Can Play Panthers

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The captain’s head out to the middle to meet today’s match referee, Graham Pavitt. It will Colchester to take the kick-off in the 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and white socks with She Can Play Panthers lined up opposite wearing a stylish two toned purple shirt with purple shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the defence Colchester not closed down immediately looking to play it across the backline, Evie Clarke however comes snapping in for the Panthers, 25 yards out to charge down the ball steal possession and thread a diagonal ball into Hayley Halford pulling into the box left of goal, turns back to shoot across the keeper, Owen Hoskin right behind down smartly to save.

The visitors encouraged by the early shot on goal regain possession high on the right Clarke driving forwards squaring a cross into the near post deflected into the side netting for a corner kick. A dangerous ball fired in across the face of the Colchester goal, dropping invitingly at the far post however no one is their to attack it as Colchester attempt to break down the right, Molly Dodd across to challenge forcing play Colchester to play the ball back, the Panthers pressing high Dodd lifting the ball on for Harriet Hudson on the left wing knocks the ball on up the line, Lucy Yewman getting back at her to defend send the ball out for a throw.

Colchester full back, Lucy Yewman

The Panthers starting the game well pressing high on the wings a vicious ball fired in across the face of goal, Hoskin down sharply on her line to keep it out push it away to the left. Clarke gathering the ball into her feet on the right flank a power drive up the line looks to angle a cross into the six yard box, cut out by Colchester’s Karys Paton. The ball being shifted quickly both sides showing strong attacking intent, lively, Yewman looking to get on down the right for Colchester linking up with Thalia Adams shifting the ball into the midfielder continuing her run down the line, Adams sending the pass into her, Hudson tracking back for the Panthers challenging to see the ball out for a throw.

Lindsey Morgan seeing the throw down into her feet chipping it back to Yewman out wide to hook a cross into the box from 25 yards out, drops for Adams on the penalty spot, closed down before she can get a shot away, Aimee Burling clearing for the Panthers. The visitors break through the middle Dodd with Fran Ali the ball clipped on for Clarke to take on right side powers forwards before delivering a high ball into the six yard box, claimed well above her head by Hoskin.

Lively Colchester’s turn to attack, captain Cassie Craddock-Ball sending the ball on for Tahlia Roome moving into the left channel bursting towards the box attempts to thread a pass in between the Panther’s defence for Greenleaf to attack, a little too much on it allows goalkeeper, Meredith Kitchen to gather cleanly. Little let up in the tempo, Evie Walters snapping in to win the ball for the Panthers out to Hudson on the left, Learna Daniels across to support Yewman in defence as the winger looks to cut inside to cross. Panthers with a strong opening to the game moving past the quarter hour mark Colchester beginning to find their feet having been under a little pressure.

She can Play Panthers’ midfielder, Evie Walters

Coming through the middle Colchester build quickly Adams laying the ball on for Greenleaf 25 yards out, looks to thread it through for Jacqueline Craddock-Ball making the forwards run, a vital interception by Burling inside the D for the Panthers. The hosts getting on well down the right, Roome linking up well with Jacqueline Craddock-Ball and Greenleaf winning a corner off Shannon Simpson.

Panthers captain, Rebecca Denis on the left of defence making a crucial interception as Colchester look to stretch play Adams attempting to find Yewman breaking down the right wing. Colchester pushing up in attack left of the area Greenleaf on the ball top corner of the area inside for Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, sends the return pass back into the area for Greenleaf who gets a shot away before being closed down on the angle lofted up into the air looking for the top corner, the wind gets hold of it to see the ball, fly wide of the upright.

Colchester attacker, Ruby Greenleaf

Yewman seeing the ball into her feet on the right with a nice turn to get a cross away into the box, no one gambling to get on the end of it as Little clears. The Panthers defence playing themselves into trouble at the back not petting rid of the ball, with both Morgan and Roome snapping in to close it down force an error. Colchester making a change bringing off Greenleaf in attack, send on Ruby Vinton.

Dodd bringing the ball on through the middle for the Panthers has Ali up with her in support laying the ball into her feet looking to force her way into the Colchester area is tackled by Niamh Gamble. Colchester break with pace Cassie Craddock-Ball on for Adams through the middle, attempts to play Yewman in on the right, again the wind catches the ball making it a forlorn chase for the full back.

Jacqueline Craddock-Ball

Vinton up high with Morgan central outside the Panthers box pressing the ball, Morgan moving sending the ball into Vinton left of the D, shapes to shoot, Burling in to close her down charge down the shot. Roome getting on down the left for Colchester sweeping the ball into the area, headed clear by Burling. A change for the visitors as they bring off Clarke, with Hudson moving into a more advanced position, Danielle Ware coming on going to the left.

Denis bringing the ball on up the left for the Panthers sending it inside for Dodd, looks to clip in up into Hudson, Daniels closing her down for Colchester. Ware linking up with Hudson on the left as the Panthers attack with pace a cross fired in low to the near post, Paton running back in on her own goal, cutting it out behind for a corner kick.

Learna Daniels

Karys Paton bringing the ball on for Colchester

Jacqueline Craddock-Ball snapping in on Dodd to win the ball for Colchester in the final 3rd sends it forwards into Vinton, Dodd recovering to get after Vinton regains possession inside her own box. Roome up on the left with Vinton 25 yards out, Burling coming out of the back line to challenge halt the attack, Cassie Craddock-Ball winning it back quickly lifting the ball out to Morgan pulling wide left down the line in gets a cross into the near post under challenge form Simpson, Kitchen covering her post making a solid claim.

Lindsey Morgan with Panthers captain, Rebecca Denis

Hudson taking the ball on from Denis as the pair push up on the Panthers left flank, Hudson stealing inside looking to force her way into the area, Gamble moving in to close her down tackling to win the ball back. The visitors winning a free-kick inside the Colchester half, before it is taken they make a change, Clarke coming back on to replace Halford. Dodd over the set-piece, hooks the ball goal wards looking to score, Hoskin across her line can see the ball drop safely past her right post.

Molly Dodd

The wind a consideration for both sides especially high balls, despite that is a lively contest with both sides into each other looking to get on quickly with the ball, Little tackling well for the Panthers at the back as Jacqueline Craddock-Ball drives with the ball at her feet towards the area.

Panthers defender, Ella Little

GOAL! into the final 5 minutes of the first half Colchester building momentum the ball from Adams finding Vinton on the left outside the area, shifts it between her feet looking to drive into the box sends the pass on for Roome 8 yards out to the left of goal, Burling in to close her down the ball loose rebounds out wide to Vinton unmarked to strike goal-wards gets plenty behind the ball, Kitchen does well to get a palm up to try and keep it out but not enough as the ball finds its way through to the back of the net 1-0.

Ruby Vinton off the bench to fire Colchester into the lead

Panthers falling behind get straight on the attack from the restart the ball fed up the right for Clarke, angles a cross into the area, Adams tracking back into her box intercepting. Pushing up well on the right Walters seeing the ball into her feet of Clarke out wide corner of the area, goes to shoot, slipping as she does seeing a tame effort run safely through to the keeper. Kitchen out well to the top of her area to get hold of the ball as Morgan beats the offside trap to run in behind the Panthers defence.

Messy from the Panthers at the back as they lose the ball on the left Roome taking it on angling a shot in towards goal, pace behind it rising, Kitchen throwing out a glove to tip the ball wide of her right post over for a corner kick. Curled into the near post, defended for a 2nd corner kick. This delivery into the top of the area, Roome running in to strike the ball, blacked by Ali, deflected out to the left shot blasted in from range drops wide of the right post.

Dodd playing the ball into Ware getting on down the Panther’s left wing, riding a tackle going on towards the area, Daniels closing her down tackling to send the ball out for play for Colchester as the first half draws to a close.

Half-time Colchester United Women 1-0 She can Play Panthers

Colchester edging the first half, Ruby Vinton’s goal late in the half the difference between the sides as the hosts opt to stay out for the interval, the Panthers heading to their changing room. The wind bitingly cold. A strong start from the visitors asking questions of the Colchester defence, getting forwards with purpose, Colchester taking a little time to get going but once they did it became a lively and competitive contest, the two sides evenly matches getting after the ball looking to get on quickly both keepers called into action. Still all to play for 2nd half, the Panthers recently 2-0 down to leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves at half-time coming back to win 3-2 so Colchester know it’s far from settled yet.

A change for the hosts at the break with Yewman coming off, Leah Pope coming on. No changes for the Panthers as they head back to the pitch will have the wind at their backs 2nd half as they get the game restarted, back to the defence played across the back before being lifted long down the left channel, Hudson breaking forwards but a simple gather for Hoskin in the Colchester goal. Denis carrying the ball on down the Panthers left knocked on for Ware to take on, clips a cross into the area, won by Adams for Colchester and cleared.

The Panthers starting the second half as they did the first getting on the front foot driving forwards Dodd through the middle a strong run on the ball lays it through into the area for Clarke, stabs a low shot in towards goal, can only pick out the keeper. The visitors getting bodies up into the final 3rd pushing the Colchester defence back into their box, Walters looking to pull off Gamble hooks a cross from the right into the area, Hoskin under it to catch for the hosts.

Clarke out right winning a throw high for the Panthers, Clarke off the throw sending a cross in along the top of the area, Ware attacking it centrally, her low shot straight forward for Hoskin. The pressure mounting Walters strong on the ball taking it left gamble moving to close her down challenging to send the ball behind for a corner kick. All action a dangerous delivery curled in right across the face of goal under the bar, Hoskin hurt as she goes to try and block it, the ball cleared on the line before being hooked clear, play stopped so the keeper can be seen to. The Panthers appealing feeling their was a hand involved somewhere in the goal line clearance but get no joy.

Hoskin okay to play on, play resuming with a drop ball outside the box, Panthers pressing to force another corner on the left. Is another dangerous delivery into the Colchester six yard box dropping in front of goal, attacked stabbed goal wards Hoskin with a brilliant save getting a glove on the bouncing ball to tip it high over her crossbar. Colchester under pressure regrouping as the corner comes into the box from the right, a brave header at the far post cushioned by a defender back towards goal caught confidently by the keeper.

A strong start to the 2nd half from the Panthers give a foul away to relieve the pressure on the hosts, lifted up into the area half cleared, Pope looking to steal in on the rebound inside the area, Dodd bringing it clear for the Panthers. Colchester get numbers up quickly in the right play drawn across as the angled cross comes flashing into the box, across the six yard box, Roome running in unmarked at the far post can’t get there.

Clarke picking up the ball inside her own half goes on a marauding run through the middle for the Panthers threatening to go all the way into the opposition area, Daniels the last defender getting across her to safely shield the ball back into her keeper’s gloves.

She Can Play Panthers, Evie Clarke

Denis pushing on with the ball for the panthers on the left on for Ware looking to shift the ball inside, Pope sticking out a leg tackling for Colchester.

Captain, Rebecca Denis

A similar story to the first half a strong start from the Panthers, beginning to drop off getting a little frustrated, by some decisions going against them and a determined Colchester defence. Roome doing well on the left for Colchester bringing the ball on sent on for Vinton up the line tracks to the by-line before checking back to try and deliver an acute shot in towards goal, easy gathering for Kitchen between the sticks.

Panthers goalkeeper, Meredith Kitchen clearing the ball before Morgan can close her down.

Roome driving on up the left for Colchester linking up with Vinton, head down looks to drive infield with the ball, Burling lunging in to tackle winning the ball back for the visitors. Halford back on for the Panthers with Simpson off. Little playing the ball forwards into Ware left side for the Panthers, Pope into make the challenge the ball going behind for a corner kick. Flung high into the near post, Hoskin getting a glove in the ball to punch it away to the right for another corner kick.

Clarke to send it into the box, curled into Denis on the penalty spot, looking to get it out from under her feet and shoot, Colchester move into defend en masse scramble the ball away. The Panthers working hard pushing players on winning a free kick out wide on the left as Roome and Halford come together going for a 50/50 ball. Denis to float into the area, headed clear by Adams.

Colchester determined to hold onto their lead are inviting pressure allowing the Panthers to come on, while getting little by way of relief on the attacking front, gaps appearing as the visitors over commit looking for the equaliser, remains lively. Hudson carrying the into the right channel up with Walters wide of her giving her the ball continues her run looking for the return pass into the box, Roome tackling well for Colchester, bringing the ball away breaking on the left forwards into Vinton, who moves infield only to be tackled by Little. Paton appears to have picked up a knock for Colchester needs to come off, Roome dropping deeper on the left with Billie-Jo Williams coming on ahead of her.

The Panthers visibly frustrated as they give niggly fouls away on half way, Little bringing down Vinton on halfway. Adams driving with the ball through the middle brought down. Denis charging on down the left with the ball forwards into Halford, Daniels lunging in to challenge for Colchester outside the box. Halford coming right with the ball forwards for Hudson to clip a cross into the box, cut out by Gamble cleared by Roome for a throw in.

Colchester defender, Niamh Gamble.

High on the right Clarke up with Hudson the cross lofted into the area cut out again by Gamble. The hosts attempting to break Vinton seeing the ball down on halfway forwards for Morgan but the Panther’s back line holds it’s line catching her offside. Colchester making a change brining off their captain, Cassie Craddock-Ball coming off the armband passed to Morgan who drops into a midfield role with Emily Ager coming on to lead the line.

The Panthers are pushing hard for a goal pressing players on the defence on halfway, leaving gaps to exploit, the ball lifts over the top for Hudson to chase down into the area, Roome in close defending for Colchester, Hudson appealing for a hand ball as the ball is cleared for a corner on the right. The hosts launch a counter attack Morgan carrying the ball into midfield lifting it out Williams on the left charging forwards, sends a cross into the area, cut out by Burling.

The Panthers angry as they give away a free-kick centrally, Williams sweeping it out to Morgan on the right up the line delivers a vicious cross into the six yard box, Kitchen with a brave save down smartly to gather the ball into her body with Ager closing in! The visitors looking to get the ball forwards quickly with less than 10 minutes on the clock a high ball forwards dealt with by Gamble for Colchester.

Danielle Ware on the attack for the Panthers

Kitchen playing her kick out from the back straight into Vinton 20 yards out right of the D, starts to close her down, Vinton thinking to play Ager clear on the right, the opportunity missed as the offside flag goes up. The Panthers getting wound up a offside decision from a throw in on the right going against them as the ball is headed goal wards. Incensed the referee calls Halford over for a word, looking to calm things down. Winning another throw on the right high up the pitch, little up to take it has a long throw in her armoury launching the ball into the area headed away by Gamble, Colchester look to break Vinton and Ager up top but the latter strays offside.

Panthers defender, Aimee Burling

The arguments with the referee continuing, Ali pushes things too far saying something she shouldn’t which results in her being yellow carded and sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes, leaving the Panther’s down to 10. Vinton making way for Greenleaf for Colchester. All action the Panthers determined to press forwards despite their disadvantage, Clarke seeing the ball into her feet off a free-kick on halfway right outside the box, turns well off her marker to drag a shot wide of the right post.

Pushed up Kitchen has to come sliding in to win the ball inside the opposition half to stop a potential Colchester counter attack. Williams coming back to help defend as Halford and Hudson combine on the right for the Panthers. Pressing bodies forwards the Panthers are leaving themselves vulnerable to the counter attack.

Hayley Halford

GOAL! The ball is cleared up to the halfway line, Ager up top with Morgan, the former seeing the ball down knocking in into Morgan who has Dodd on her shoulder, charges forwards looks to be hauled down by Dodd, players and spectators alike thinking play has been stopped for a free-kick but no play goes on the ball loose on the right Ager sees the keeper well off her line and strikes it over her to roll on into the empty goal beyond, a little confusion follows as Colchester celebrate, the ball is placed on the centre circle for the restart, the goal stands Colchester doubling their lead in the closing minutes of the match 2-0.

Emily Ager doubling Colchester’s lead

Then all chaos breaks loose, Dodd is summoned over to the referee, clearly something has been said and she is shown a straight red card, sent off. But thing’s escalate as the Panther’s bench gets involved the referee rushing over more yellow cards issued to the manager. The visitors far from happy but have crossed the line with the official, a fiery end to what has been a thrilling contest.

Molly Dodd red carded for the Panthers

The Panthers to see the match out with 9 on the pitch. Colchester pumped up themselves having struggled to get a result against the Panthers seeing a victory in their sights. Williams pushing on with the ball up the left wing can only find the keeper with the through ball into the area.

The visitors are not going to sit back, even with 9 are focused on attack, Halford combining with Walters as they take the ball right, Gamble tackling for the hosts. Into stoppage time the Panthers winning a free-kick deep on the left inside the Colchester half, everyone bar the goalkeeper up Clarke to delivery a good ball in bounces though the six yard box, out wide past the far post.

Little up for another long throw high on the right up into the area, Clarke looking to bring it down off her chest right of goal turn to let fly with a shot, isn’t given the room as the Colchester defence launch it clear.

Full time Colchester United Women 2-0 She can Play Panthers

Colchester are ecstatic as they celebrate the win having had some tough games with She Can Play Panthers so far this season, getting the 3 points, moving above them into 2nd spot in their premier Division table, with a game still in hand on leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves the gap move 3 points as they were held to a 2-2 at Brentwood Town Women. The title race still wide open. She can Play Panthers winning streak coming to an end in somewhat controversial fashion, but they nevertheless have a game in hand on Hashtag too, just 4 points off the lead, still all to play for. An enjoyable game from the Essex Women’s Premier Division, the Panthers starting the 2nd half like the first coming out strong pushing players on in attack looking to get an early leveller and no doubt push for a winner themselves came up against a determined Colchester defence, created chances, forcing saves from the keeper and clearances off the line, felt they should have had a penalty and as the decisions seemed to mount up against them let their frustration get the better of them finishing the game with 9 on the pitch with one sent off and another sin binned, Colchester going on to double their advantage fighting for the 3 points.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to chose the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as per normal isn’t a easy call to make several contenders out there this afternoon on both sides and could have gone either way in the finish. Performances of note include for She Can Play Panthers, Aimee Burling at the back, produced a number of key tackles and blocks to deny Colchester throughout the match. Harriet Hudson working hard on the flank looking to get on with the ball set up chances for her teammates. Evie Clarke strong on the ball making some determined runs out wide and through the middle. Molly Dodd getting about well in the middle of the park with some great forward passing. For Colchester, Lindsey Morgan used the channels well getting into some good positions looking to draw out defenders create space for others to run into. Ruby Vinton lively coming on from the bench first half getting hold of the ball looking to take it too the Panther’s defence scoring the opener. Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, with some good runs on the ball in the final 3rd. Tahlia Roome get forwards well down the left linking up with the attack and coming back to help in defence. The defence itself with a dogged performance, goalkeeper, Owen Hoskin producing a number of saves, Learna Daniels getting in a number of challenges as did Niamh Gamble making several crucial interceptions and getting in to close the ball down. A close call but todays Player of the Match is Colchester midfielder, Thalia Adams, working hard in the middle of the park to win the ball back, covered the ground helping out in defence to, came forwards with purpose linked up well with the attackers.

An eventful, but enjoyable game from the Essex Women’s Premier Division, lively between two sides that will push hard all the way to the end of the season to challenge Hashtag United Women Reserves for the title. A frustrating afternoon for the Panthers but they have had a strong start with their new woman’s side and are an emerging force in the county. Colchester joyous after finally beating their opponents continue to build upon their debut season. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Sprowston FC Women v Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

Sunday 16th February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Feeling unwell last Sunday so forced to sit one out, so keen to get back to it this weekend, staying in Norfolk for some action from Norfolk Women’s Division One, unfortunately my original game was called off but a planned early kick-off gave me time to get to an alternative and across the board there were some great match ups so opted to go to Blue Boar Lane to watch 2nd placed Sprowston FC Women as they took on Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves in 3rd.

Been an interesting campaign so far in Norfolk Women’s Division One, proving to be competitive, Bungay Town Ladies the defending champions, with a 100% record to date, just 6 games on the board though have a busy ew months ahead of them, Sprowston FC Women 2nd also unbeaten from their 7 matches too have games to catch up on. Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves in 3rd have got their games in and as a result find themselves right up there despite a managerial change, can they stay with the other challengers will be intriguing to see, games in hand don’t necessarily mean points on the board.

Sprowston FC Women under new management this season with, player Lois Irving stepping into the role, initially planned to be on the side lines but tempted back out onto the field for another season, partly due to necessity with the side undergoing a bit of a rebuild, several player moving on from the season have brought in some talented youngsters from Dussindale & Hellesdon’s U16 side. Katie Fray re-joining having had a spell in the ERWFL with Thetford Town Ladies. Lauren Bumstead was with Mulbarton last season. Goalkeeper, Tyla Cole dual signed with Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Finishing runners-up to Bungay Town Ladies last season, have hit the ground running this time around unbeaten in their 7 league games played too date with 5 wins and 2 draws. Have been a victim to the poor weather seeing a number of postponements. Lois Wright leading the goal scoring charts so far with 7 from her 6 appearances, while Rosie Milligan has 6 from 9 matches. Sprowston boast a good youth set up and have produced some good players and sides throughout the season’s.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves, have seen the management role change hands 3 times this season with Dave Skipp stepping down from the role, with a interim coming, now John Vincent is in charge of the side that has a strong pool to call upon with useful experience playing in the county leagues and above. Having made a poor start to the league campaign losing 5 of their opening 6 matches, the season has been turned on it’s head as things settle down management wise, as the club went on a 6 game unbeaten run winning 4 and drawing 2 to catapult them all the way to the top of the table.

Have goals throughout the side, Rebecca Waters coming to the club, netting 9 from 8 games top scorer. Lucy Kean always amongst the goals too for the club, has 7 so far this season. Midfielder, Charlotte Groves, has 6 to her names while Mary-Anne Hoy has scored 4 goals. Amongst the title challengers Mulbarton’s Reserves are also into the last 4 of the League Plate competition. A high scoring encounter between Sprowston and Mulbarton in the reverse fixture back in September, 10 goals between them with Sprowston coming out on top 6-4.

The Sprowston Sports & Social club on Blue Boar Lane the venue for this afternoons game. The social club itself open serving hot and cold drinks. Leading out to the pitch beyond. Well used with a game taking place just that morning, a little cut up and patchy, offering good width, standing viewing all round. The snow the previous evening cleared away leaving behind a sunny, cloudy mix with a distinct chill in the air when the clouds obscured the sun.

Sprowston FC Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Emma Webster, Lois Irving, Lauren Bumstead (C), Claire Weekes, Isla McKee, Holly Whayman, Katie Fray, Katie Moore, Rosie Milligan & Lois Wright. Subs – Lola Hallam.

Sprowston FC Women

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves starting XI – Kirstie Andrews, Aneliese Smith, Faye Bye, Bryony Knights, Tasha Williams (C), Charlotte Groves, Jade Telfer, Sophie Jermy, Mary-Anne Hoy, Megan Anderton & Lucy Keen. Subs – Tilly-Rose Dade, Mia Wilkinson, Steph Leek, Ella Cattermole & Nicole Sheldrake.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Tasha Williams and Lauren Bumstead with today’s referee Dan Knowles

Sprowston with a few players missing today, down to the bare bones naming just the one on the bench, whereas Mulbarton could name five substitutes on theirs especially useful with roll off roll on substitutes. It’s Mulbarton to kick-off the 1st half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and socks. Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange coloured shirts with black shorts and orange socks. The ball played central, Sprowston immediately in to close it down, Katie Fray getting stuck in looking to release Lois Wright as she makes an attacking move, Jade Telfer getting the ball back for Mulbarton out to Sophie Jermy on the right, fires a diagonal ball in towards the top of the D 25 yards out attacker Lucy Kean looking to get it under control hit on the turn, slips as she pulls the trigger screwing her attempt wide of the left post.

Mulbarton striker, Lucy Kean

Sprowston bring the ball on through the middle with pace Fray out to Wright pulling into the left channel, controls top of the area, drops her shoulder and makes a move to go inside, Mulbarton’s captain, Tasha Williams getting her challenge in to see the ball diverted out to the left for a throw. From the throw in Fray looks to get the ball down into her feet left of the D, snatches at her shot, runs wide of the near post.

A lively start to the game both sides looking to get the ball up field quickly, the pitch not suitable to an intricate passing game, that sees play turned around quickly Mulbarton pushing players on Jermy right side driving a cross into the top of the area, Sprowston captain, Lauren Bumstead getting something on it trapping the ball diverting it out to her far post, the defence racing back to clear, Mary-Anne Hoy running in from that side looking to close the ball down blocked back in towards goal, Tyla Cole down sharply on her line to get her gloves around the ball.

The hosts build on the right Emma Webster on for Katie Moore driving down the line squares a cross into the box, Williams tracking back getting in the block to cut the ball out near side turn it behind for the corner kick. Curled into the near post, Mulbarton win the header the ball cleared.

Sprowston’s, Katie Moore

Charlotte Groves bringing the ball on through the middle for Mulbarton going left forwards into Kean, looks to send Hoy through on the overlap, Moore back for Sprowston getting her foot on the ball to clear upfield. Mulbarton pushed up one end, space opens up for Sprowston to attack on the left. Moore surging on to the by-line cuts the cross back into the top of the six yard box, Wright there unmarked, goalkeeper Kirstie Andrews starts to come to close her down the striker rushes her shot pulls it narrowly wide of the far post.

Holly Whayman on the ball for Sprowston with Fray through the middle lifted out to Wright wide on the left, controls coming inside to send a cross in towards the fat post, Bryony Knights up well to head clear for the visitors, Sprowston pressing getting it back top of the area a shot racing in wide of the right post. Rosie Milligan taking the ball on towards the box right of the D, Knights tackling to deny the shooting chance. Niggly challenges from both sides the pitch wet and heavy in places.

Mulbarton’s Meg Anderton

Meg Anderton for Mulbarton, pulls out to the right to receive the ball from Jermy, angles a long cross in towards the far post, Hoy making the run, just a little too much on it out for a goal kick. Anderton moving well behind Kean looking to link up with hoy and Jermy on the flanks, coming over to the left sends Hoy through to deliver a cross, cut out by Sprowston’s Claire Weekes at the near post. Telfer getting hold of the ball 35 yards out lines up a strike, on target but straight into Cole’s gloves.

Mulbarton midfielder, Jade Telfer

Weekes bringing the ball out from the back on Sprowston’s left plays the pass inside for Milligan who turns looking to sweep a cross out to the right for Moore to attack, Faye Bye intercepts well for Mulbarton heading the ball clear. Hoy bursting up the left for the visitors, Isla McKee getting back at her to tackle send the ball out for a corner kick. A vicious ball in curled into the six yard box, knocked down towards goal, Cole again getting down sharply to grab hold of the ball saving it on the line. Mulbarton appealing it had crossed the line but nothing doing.

Sprowston launching a quick counter attack, Milligan sending the ball long though to Wright up top breaking in behind the defence central, Andrews racing out to the top of her area to close her down the striker taking it past her to the right of goal looking to slide it into the empty net, Knights though recovering fantastically for Mulbarton throwing herself into the slide to block the shot turn it behind for a corner kick. All action the corner clipped into the top of the area met by Fray looking to head the ball back in towards goal, Andrews right behind it grabbing hold of the ball.

Mulbarton’s turn to have a corner out on the left, players up from the back Anderton to play the ball in near side defended comes back to Anderton to angle another cross into the area, this time it’s Moore who hooks the ball clear for the hosts. Both sides working hard to win the ball, the game scrappy at times, fouls given away, Telfer sliding in to win the ball from Whayman, Jermy looking to take it on right side, tackled by Irving.

Williams on for Jermy though the middle for Mulbarton fires it forwards into Kean 25 yards out top of the D, lets it run past her with Anderton making a good run beyond her taking on the shot from 20 yards out blasts her strike wide of the right post. Kean battles for a corner for Mulbarton on the left. Swung into the near post Weekes winning it for Sprowston. Webster combining with Moore out on the right for Sprowston the cross clipped into the box, intercepted by Knights.

Play continues to be end to end Kean coming right with Anderton, looking to cross the ball in central, cut out by Irving. A free-kick to the visitors in the middle, fired long towards the far post, Hoy can’t do much with it, but does well to win a corner off a defender. Plenty up in the box for a Mulbarton corner, swung in near side the hosts scramble it away.

GOAL! Sprowston have pressed forwards in attack on the right the move breaking down Mulbarton get the ball forwards quickly into the left channel for Kean to chase, the covering defender given a shout from Cole as she comes racing out of her area trying to get to the ball before, doesn’t with Kean lunging in to meet it knocking it past the keeper from 20 yards out, ready to celebrate… but has to wait for the ball to roll into the bottom corner, 0-1.

Lucy Kean congratulated by her teammates opening the scoring for Mulbarton.

Kean opening the scoring just past the half hour mark. Sprowston on the attack from the restart Whayman forwards into Milligan top of the area tries to force her way past Knights to get in on goal, the defender having none of it the pair going down, the decision going Knights’ way. Mulbarton coming left Anderton on for Hoy up the line attempts to put an angled shot in at the near post, Cole can see it bounce wide of the mark.

The free-kicks being given away both sides unhappy with decisions such is the tempo they are playing at. In a dangerous position 25 yards out central, Milligan over it goes for the shot, on target by not troubling the keeper.

Sprowston with a change bringing on Lola Hallam for Webster. Mulbarton looking to be direct, Kean the target up top, Anderton moving well off her. Bumsted does well at the back for Sprowston as she deals with Kean one on one as she runs onto a through ball from Groves. Smith going on the overlap up the right for Mulbarton lifting a cross from wide into Anderton inside the box near side gets her foot up to try and turn the ball goal-wards, strikes Bumsted as she goes to block deflected of her for a corner kick. Curled in near side, cut out by Whayman for the hosts.

GOAL! Mulbarton looking to finish the 1st half strong into the closing moments, Jermy up to support Kean on the right, forcing a corner kick. The delivery fired in central knocked back in towards the far post area players looking to attack, Telfer and Hoy the ball struck goal wards, striking a defender as they go to block not enough the ball finding the back of the net to see the visitors double their lead on the stroke of half-time.

Mulbarton celebrate as they double their lead on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Sprowston FC Women 0-2 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

Both sides staying out on the field for the half-time interval. Mulbarton the happier doubling their advantage on the stroke of half-time. Both sides looking to be direct has been all action, little pause in play (except for tying boot laces). Mulbarton pushing players on using the flanks well, Meg Anderton moving off Kean linking up the midfield and attack, creating chances. Sprowston winning the ball back, niggly fouls on both sides, have created some good opportunities of their own a blow to go 2 down when they did and will be looking for a positive start to the 2nd half.

A quick turn around for the 2nd half, for myself too as having been in between the dugouts on one side, the low sun as welcome as it is was going to play havoc with the camera so over to the opposite and as better as it was had to give up the sun for a chilly patch of shade, roll on summer. No changes for Sprowston, Mulbarton bring on Steph Leeks and Mia Wilkinson for Smith and Bye at full back. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway, immediately closed down in the middle, Fray battling for the ball wins it back on for Milligan right on for Wright who tracks inside forcing her way into the box, takes on the shot lacks the power to trouble Andrews.

Sprowston pressing the ball well on the left wing, Fray up with Wright, the striker looking for force her way through into the box, coming together with Leek picking up a knock, needing to come off Smith back into the action. Moore linking up with Wright as the hosts build again in the left, 20 out the striker makes a move to drive towards the corner of the box, the tackle comes in, heavy contact as Wright goes to strike the ball, a painful blow to her ankle, the free-kick is awarded. Wright down for a few moments some concern but thankfully is ok to continue. Irving over the set-piece on the left corner of the area a dangerous position looks to lift the ball in towards the far post, Telfer defending for Mulbarton sending the ball out for a corner on the left.

Tasha Williams with Lois Wright

GOAL! The ball whipped in across the top of the six yard box, attacked by Fray, power on her header drives the ball in to smash down off the crossbar, bouncing down, Andrews getting down to beat it away, even as Sprowston turn to appeal that the ball was over the line, comes back to Irving outside the box left of goal, lashes her strike over. Sprowston though adamant the ball was over the line, the referee going over to consult with the clubs linesman in this case one of the Mulbarton substitutes, and points to the spot signalling a goal, Sprowston getting a goal back early in the 2nd half, 1-2.

Katie Fray powers her header towards goal to smash down off the crossbar.

Sprowston appeal thinking the ball crossed the line

Kean bringing the ball away down the left for Mulbarton, played back up the line to Groves, clips it into the top of the area for Anderton, Irving challenging the ball going behind for a corner kick. Anderton swinging the corner into the area, Groves central knocking it back out to her, from the angle Anderton look to float the ball in over the keeper, Cole, though getting her gloves up to pluck the ball down into her body.

Wright driving with the ball at her feet, in off the left wing, Smith and Williams in to close her down the ball behind for a corner. Whipped in across the six yard box to the far post by Irving, is knocked down back in towards goal, Andrews there to scoop it up. End to end once again with both sides determined to get the ball into there attackers quickly, Telfer on for Kean moving into the right channel, Bumstead closing her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw.

Katie Fray holding off Jade Telfer

The visitors appealing for a hand ball as the ball is lifted into the top of the area, Weekes going to head it down, does brush her arm as it falls but nothing intentional about it. Sprowston pushed up on the right pressing the ball, McKee with Milligan, the latter dropping her shoulder coming in off the flank 25 yards out, clips a shot up in towards goal, Andrews right behind it to claim. A battling contest played at a decent tempo, Irving getting on with the ball left side sending the pass through to Milligan up top, looks to spin in behind, Williams close on her getting her tackle in top of the area.

Holly Whayman bringing the ball forwards for Sprowston

Telfer coming off for Mulbarton, on comes Nicole Sheldrake with around an hour gone, Moore with a burst of pace on the left pushing the ball up to Wright, tries to get past Williams unhappy as the foul goes against her giving Sprowston another free-kick on the corner of the area. Irving to send it in beyond the far post players queuing up, Weekes getting her head on the ball sending it back in over the crossbar.

A vital interception from Bumstead at the back as Mulbarton look to turn play around rapidly, Jermy on the move through the middle looking to send Kean in with the through ball, Sprowston’s captain getting her foot out to cut out the pass top of the D. Both sides are getting frustrated with a few decisions, such is the nature of the game both wanting to get on quickly, Sprowston feeling they can get another goal, Mulbarton intent of restoring their 2 goal cushion.

Lively as Irving takes the ball forwards on the left playing a diagonal pass in central to Fray who helps it on for Milligan out on the right, from the angle drills a shot in to the near post, low, Andrews has the angle covered down to save. Knights defends for the visitors as Whayman looks to pick out Milligan in the right channel.

GOAL! Mulbarton press players on Groves on for Jermy right, puts the return pass into Groves as she continues her run out to the right, whipping a pacy cross into the six yard box, Kean rushing in at the far post looking to get a touch as the keeper goes down trying to grab it, both miss as it flies on out out to the left, Mulbarton keeping hold of the ball pulling players out of position the cross clipped back in central at Kean quickly drops off her favourably for Jermy to steal in unmarked to stab it wide of the keeper to make it 1-3.

Sophie Jermy firing Mulbarton into a 3-1 lead

Mulbarton restoring their 2 goal cushion with a little over 15 minutes left to play, Anderton having picked up a knock minutes before, coming off for the visitors with Ella Cattermole coming on to join Kean up top. Groves getting on with the ball through the middle linking up with Jermy going right, Bumstead diving in to tackle the ball back central with Sheldrake 30 plus yards out, has a go from range, straight at the keeper.

Into the final 15 minutes, Sprowston not sitting back, Milligan bringing the ball down right outside the box dropping it into Wright, drives into the area, Wilkinson tackling for Mulbarton, the loose ball coming to Fray running onto it 25 yards out blasts her attempt over the bar. From a corner the ball comes out to Whayman to have a crack from range, on target but again straight forwards for the keeper. Hallam back on for Sprowston as they send Weekes up to to join the attack.

GOAL! The ball played into Weekes inside the box from the right looks to turn move left, Williams going with her sliding in to tackle, Weekes going down, the referee pointing to the spot, Mulbarton furious as Sprowston have the penalty. It’s Irving to take, no mistake as she goes for power drilling it to the keepers right low into the bottom corner 2-3 game on.

Lois Irving fires home the penalty for Sprowston.

Mulbarton already unhappy about conceding the penalty break down the left, bodies forwards the cross stabbed into the area, appeals go up straight away for a hand ball…

GOAL! Even as the appeals are going on one end Sprowston counter attack the ball clipped on through the middle for Wright to attack, running in behind, Andrews has to come can’t get there as Wright lifts the ball over her to bounce into the goal beyond, turns to celebrate as she fires the hosts back onto level terms 3-3.

Lois Wright jubilant after levelling the scores for Sprowston.

Tempers overheating Mulbarton naturally furious to have conceding the equaliser having had a strong appeal turned down at the other end, comments going too far for the referee going over to the bench to show a card, have a word with the manager and supporters. Into the final 5 minutes the action on the pitch continues Groves looking to play Jermy through up top, Cole gives the call to her defence coming out to deal with the ball.

Charlotte Groves sending the ball on for Mulbarton

Whayman clearing the ball for Sprowston, up to Wright wins her side a corner on the left, players up curled into the near side, Weekes heading it on into the mix, Fray looking to get it down wriggle free to unleash a shot, Mulbarton snapping at the ball taking it away from her, Milligan putting it wide of the right post from the top of the D. Sprowston with their tails up, Mulbarton rattled needing to calm down, Jermy firing the ball into Sheldrake up top, can’t quite get it under control as Irving moves in to close her down.

Hallam getting her foot out to cut out the cross from Wilkinson as Mulbarton press down the left the ball behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! The corner clipped into the area initially cleared by Fray back out to the left, retrieved by Mulbarton with Sheldrake from the angle looking to curl a shot in under the crossbar, Cole stretching to reach it back on her line, plucked down, but not claimed in the six yard box, Kean looking to attack it, Bumsted blocking as it’s Mulbarton’s turn to appeal that the ball from Sheldrake was over the line, the referee calling it, awarding the goal Mulbarton retaking the lead in the closing stages 3-4.

Nicole Sheldrake’s ball in towards goal judged to have crossed the line to see Mulbarton retake the lead

Definitely a heated finish to the game, his time Sprowston unhappy having clawed their way back into the game to concede late on. One last push from the hosts Whayman lifting the ball on into the top of the area, Weekes jumping for it brushes off her head to fall to Wright, left of goal, Groves back to challenge clear the ball for a corner. Seconds left, the keeper up from the back for Sprowston, but they can’t make the opportunity count as Mulbarton come out top in a 7 goal thriller.

Full time Sprowston FC Women 3-4 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

What a game, 17 goals between the sides in their 2 league matches. Mulbarton edging it this time, ending Sprowston’s unbeaten run in the process and coupled with Bungay draw at home to Aylsham, return to the top of Division One. Leading 2-0 at the break, Sprowston looking for a positive start to the 2nd half getting a goal back early. Mulbarton dug in both sides giving away fouls unhappy with some decisions but the game remained at a high tempo, the visitors getting clear to restore their 2 goal advantage. Sprowston kept going into the last quarter hour winning a penalty, the broke from a Mulbarton attack to level the scores. Mulbarton frustrated found the resolve to dig in and get forwards to retake the lead to win the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Another tough call with several contenders on both sides, for Sprowston, Claire Weekes and Lauren Bumstead put in some vital tackles at the back, especially as the game became more stretched in the 2nd period. Lois Irving too putting in some good tackles bringing the ball on a played some useful set-pieces. Rosie Milligan coming in off the right linking up will with the midfield setting up chances. Lois Wright working hard up top driving at the defence getting the equaliser. Katie Fray strong from midfield using the ball well linking up with Milligan and Wright up top. For Mulbarton, Bryony Knights was superb in defence making a number of important tackles and blocks. Jade Telfer in front of the defence getting stuck in to win the ball, Sophie Jermy out on the right taking the ball on used it well linking up with the attack and midfield runners. Meg Anderton showing great movement working hard up top behind Kean coming out wide to receive the ball create opportunities, edging it though is midfielder Charlotte Groves, won the ball well in the middle, getting it into the attacking players quickly and making some useful runs through the middle.

An action packed game with a little controversy mingled in, played at a good tempo, not an easy pitch to play on, Division one is certainly proving to be competitive this season and there is still alot of football to be played. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details this afternoon, good to catch up with both.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies v Martham FC Ladies

Sunday 2nd February

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Love to get up and down the league across the East to watch my football and having started the year with action from the FAWNL and regional leagues it’s time to take in some county league football with a game from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, with newly formed, Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Martham FC Ladies.

The Norfolk Women’s County football leagues expanding to 3 Divisions this season with a host of new sides entering an adult team in the competition. The east of Norfolk and the coastal area around Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft in Suffolk seeing a host of new sides formed in recent seasons.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC reforming a ladies side this campaign, the Lowestoft based club having previously had a side 7 years or so ago. The highlight of that time going all the way to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final and played at Ipswich’s Portman Road stadium. A new era for women’s football at Walmer Road. Recruiting players from Great Yarmouth and the surrounding area with useful experience joining what is a new look league has been a mixed start so far off to a blistering start with 3 wins on the bounce all away from home before losing the next three. A couple of postponements to start 2025, got back to winning way away to Red Rose with a 3-1 win last weekend and with 7 of their remaining 9 matches at home will be looking to build some momentum going into the 2nd half of the season. Captain Maddie-Me Kerrison the top scorer so far with 5 goals.

Martham FC Ladies entering a women’s team into the NWGFL for the first time last season, a club with a strong youth section, boys and girls have female teams from U10’s to U16’s. Joining a large 13 strong Division Two was a baptism of fire for the new women’s side finding it tough losing 9 on the spin before final securing their first 3 points in February, kept at it picking up 3 more wins and a draw towards the end of the campaign to give them something to build on. Expanding to a 3rd division last season to better match the sides Martham are all the better for that experience bringing in new faces and experience, a county cup win to open the season, were to lose their opening 2 league games but haven’t looked back six winning the next on the spin to climb up the table into 3rd pressure the leaders Brundall Bolts Women at the top. Lily Bulloch bringing goals to the side netting 19 so far from 10 appearances. Laurel Chambers with 6 goals too from her 10 games.

Kirkley & Pakefield playing at the Recreation Ground on Walmer Road. This play was always a buzz of activity when I visited in the past with plenty of youth football going on, and pleasing to see nothing has changed now, pitches both grass and artificial leading to the main stadium itself. The clubhouse and changing facilities in between, the bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drink. The weather has not been great to start the year, so good to see a bit of sun if a little chilly still a frosty start but clear now with the game to take place on the 3G pitch a good sized playing surface with standing viewing on one side, the sun beginning to drop behind that side.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies starting XI – Paige Curtis, Daphne Siracusa, Sasha Friel, Abbie Pogmore, Nyla McKay, Sophie Barber Boakes, Scarlet Miller, Karina Filippus, Lashaya Marnell, Emily Clarke & Maddie-Mae Kerrison (C). Subs – Danielle Ashley, Paige Sterry & Niamh Howard.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

Martham FC Ladies starting XI – Laura Barnard, Ella Saunders, Cerys Speak, Baelie Fairbrother, Lorella Ashcroft, Paige Searle, Melissa Anderson, Emily Dennington, Laurel Chambers, Ellie Jade Nekrews & Lily Bulloch. Subs – Bethany Shearing (C), Jessica Pasco & Scarlett Colby.

Martham FC Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Maddie-Mae Kerrison captaining Kirkley & Pakefield alongside Martham’s Melissa Anderson with todays match official Wlodzimierz Szczerba before kick-off.

A late switch for Martham with captain Bethany Shearing starting on the bench, with the hosts, Kirkley & Pakefield to kick-off the game, wearing blue and white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Martham lined up opposite wearing green coloured shirts and socks with black shorts. Scarlet Miller from the circle playing the ball back to Abbie Pogmore in defence, the ball launched up the middle with captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the line, Paige Searle intercepting the pass for Martham, setting up a counter attack firing a long pass into the right wing for Laurel Chambers to attack, Sasha Friel coming across to defend across her run to shield the ball out for a goal kick.

Martham making a positive start pushing players up capitalising on a loose pass at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield on the right side, Chambers getting onto the ball 25 yards out rolling it inside to striker, Lily Bulloch she takes on the shot from outside the box angled in low to the right post, goalkeeper Paige Curtis down low keep it out runs behind for a corner kick. The in swinging corner dropping at the near post cut out by Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus, not cleared however players closing in on the ball the final touch taking it out of play for a goal kick.

Martham striker, Lily Bulloch

Emily Dennington with pace bursting away with the ball at her feet on the left flank as Martham press well in the final third, going to the by-line checks back inside to feed the ball in across the top of the area, Bulloch going for it, Daphne Siracusa, stretching out a leg for Kirkley & Pakefield defending the take the ball away from the attacker, loose in the six yard box in front of goal, the hosts living dangerously as they scramble the ball behind for a corner on the right. Can see this one curl safely over the crossbar.

Kirkley & Pakefield riding out some early pressure look to launch an attack Miller sending the ball on for Kerrison on half way she has Lashaya Marnell breaking down the right looks to send the ball on into her path too much on it however, Lorella Ashcroft coming to close Marnell down can see the ball safely out of play. Roles reversed moments later as Marnell out wide right turns provider playing the ball on for Kerrison as the attacker pulls out to the wing to receive the ball, Ashcroft sliding in to take the ball out for a throw in.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Lashaya Marnell

The game opening up as Kirkley & Pakefield begin to get some joy going forwards he pass on for Sophie Barber Boakes to take on down the left wing comes back inside to play the ball into the top of the area, Emily Clarke looking to hit it first time opening up her body to, send the ball up into the air over the keeper and sees it cannon against the crossbar! Martham launching the ball out of their box.

Kerrison seeing the ball into her feet on the halfway line turning to play it out to the right for Clarke ahead of her driving into the right channel, forcing her way into the area, Ashcroft closing her down the defender does well to keep Clarke away from the ball see it out for a goal kick. The ball rarely still both sides looknig to turn play around, tackles flying in, Melissa Anderson sending the ball out to Dennington on the left for Martham, looks to burst away, a timely foot in from Marnell seeing the attack snuffed out.

Marnell battling for the ball in the middle for Kirkley & Pakefield, wins it and plays it forwards into Clarke 30 yards out in the right channel has Kerrison breaking in behind the defence out wide, Martham hold their line well though to catch the Kirkley & Pakefield captain, offside.

Both side are preferring to play the ball into the channels rather than attack through the middle, have willing runners Searle breaking up play in the middle for Martham put to the right, Ellie Jade Nekrews putting it forwards for Chambers, Siracusa getting her foot in for the hosts to put the ball out for a throw.

Competitive in the middle, Miller and Filippus getting stuck in for Kirkley & Pakefield played forwards into Clarke sends it out to the left with Kerrison pulling wide, taking the ball on down the flank, Cerys Speak moving in to tackle sending the ball out of play for the throw. Several foul throws with the referee picking up on improper foot control when releasing the ball, both sides penalised.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus

Chambers escapes with the ball at her feet on the right for Martham as the visitors look to turn defence into attack running on attempts to slide the threaded ball on into the area for Bulloch making a central run, Curtis sharp out of her six yard box racing out to gather the ball safely into her gloves. Pogmore getting hold of the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield playing a fantastic ball forwards into the right channel for Clarke to get hold of powers clear of her marker looking to get into the box strike her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner, the Martham defence racing back on the cover, it’s Baelie Fairbrother, who puts in the block to see the shot defended.

Abbie Pogmore winning the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield

Kirkley & Pakefield’s turn to build some momentum Marnell out to Nyla McKay right side gets on down the wing, both Clarke and Kerrison moving over to that side of the pitch to support her the trio looking to combine passes force there way past the Martham defence, both Anderson and Searle back to defend no way through. Kirkley & Pakefield making a change bring off Clarke sending Daniel Ashley on.

Lively as Kirkley & Pakefield work the ball well down the flanks winning a throw on the right into Miller, turns on the ball to send the cross into the box, cut out by Fairbrother at the near post, the visitors launching a rapid counter as Dennington is put away on the left burst towards the box, attempts to lay the ball on into the area for Chambers making a run cross the D to receive the pass, Curtis again out well to get hold of the ball before she can get a touch.

Martham keeping hold of the ball in the final third, clipped forwards into Chambers positioned left of the D 20 out look to turn the ball over her shoulder into the area. blocked by Pogmore, not clear, Bulloch getting onto it central pushing it out to the right for Nekrews on the by line right of goal close in tries to fire it past the keeper into the central position inside the six yard box, Curtis getting down to smother the ball.

Both sides enjoying spells of pressure inviting errors from the opposition, Anderson on the ball for Martham moving left attempts to play it through the middle into the box for Bulloch pulling off the defence, a little too much on the pass reaches the keeper first. Dennington breaking on with the ball at her feet on the left for the visitors taking the ball to the by-line outside the box held up. checks back inside to lay the pass back into Bulloch positioned left corner, goes to curl a shot in towards goal, drops invitingly into the keepers gloves.

Anderson strong on the ball through the middle, pushing on, Filippus getting in the blocking tackle 25 yards out, the ball not under control, Anderson looks to keep it alive stabbing it on for Bulloch breaking into the area, Pogmore with a vital interception. Pogmore in well again at the back to cut the ball out for Kirkley & Pakefield, carries it into the middle, before sending the pass into Kerrison peeling into the left channel takes the ball on before coming back inside 20 yards out to curl in a shot towards go from the corner of the box, but like Bulloch’s attempt up the other end places the ball straight into Laura Barnard’s gloves.

Kirkley & Pakefield captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison

Clarke coming back on for Kirkley & Pakefield for Ashley. Dennington’s pace on the left causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few problems as she burst away on the wing cuts her cross back into the top of the area, over Bulloch central, Siracusa stretching for it stopping the ball running through to Chambers, down into the area however, Bulloch goes to stab her foot at the ball 10 yards out sends it away over the bar.

Martham’s Laurel Chambers

Half a hour gone has been plenty of action, the Kirkley & Pakefield defence pressed back Clarke and Kerrison are up on halfway looking to receive the ball, Clarke bringing a Marnell pass under control has Kerrison making a move to go left, the attacker seeing the ball rolled into her path shapes to go wide before coming back inside to let loose from all of 35 yards out the ball running wide of the near post.

Friel doing the defending at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield getting across to put her foot in to tackle Bulloch as she attempts to get onto an Anderson ball threaded into the right channel. Anderson herself taking on the shot as the ball comes to her 20 yards out right of the Kirkley & Pakefield area blasts her strike wide past the far post.

Barber Boakes from the left sending the cross field pass into McKay 35 yards out inside right, no one moving to close her down she accepts the invitation to shoot, screws the ball wide of the right post. Dennington races on with the ball for Martham into the left corner at the by-line checks back well to fire a cross into the top of the area, Bulloch on the penalty spot looking to control it down off her chest and shoot, is closed down immediately by the Kirkley & Pakefield defence, an almighty scramble ensues with the ball somehow ending up in the keepers gloves.

Martham’s Emily Dennington

Is an open contest, Kirkley & Pakefield more often than not running the ball out wide lacking crossing options breaking from the middle of the park, Clarke going it alone on the right turns inside looking to take on Fairbrother top of the area, the defender with a good tackle to regain possession. The host get the ball back on the right, Marnell on for McKay a throw won high, Clarke seeing it into her feet turning into the area on the run goes to strike the ball with the outside of her boot, her shot lacking any power a simple gather for Barnard.

McKay getting a timely foot out to take the ball away from Bulloch for a throw out on the left, Bulloch after it to take a quick throw to try and set up Dennington to turn 25 yards out and run into the box, the ball there to be won as Friel comes out to close it down sees the pair collide in a nasty coming together that sees Dennington come off the worst. A pause in play as Dennington is treated, will be coming off regardless with captain, Bethany Shearing entering the action. Friel is shown a yellow card with Martham winning a free-kick out wide of the box 25 yards out to the left. Shearing over it goes for goal, pulls her attempt wide of the near post.

Miller getting in well to win the ball in front of the defence for Kirkley & Pakefield bringing it on trying to get her team going forwards. Into the closing stages of the first half Speak on the right playing the ball on for Nekrews up to Chambers brings the ball inside from the right looking to power her way forwards, sends it on through the middle for Bulloch, top of the D, Siracusa going with her getting a vital touch to take the ball out of her path.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Daphne Siracusa

Half-time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 0-0 Martham FC Ladies

Goalless at the break, a lively first half ending in stalemate, both sides with good opportunities to open the scoring. Martham getting off to a strong start applying the early pressure pushing the Kirkley & Pakefield defence back. The hosts coming back well however as the game opened up, competitive in the middle both looking to use the flanks, the hosts breaking well to hit the crossbar, shots in on target but not troubling either keeper, both enjoying good spells evenly matched no telling as to the outcome of the game as the sides ready for the 2nd half.

Both sides unchanged from the sides that ended the 2nd half, the sun lower now shade on one side of the pitch, Kirkley & Pakefield attacking with it in their eyes. It’s Martham to get the 2nd half underway the ball played back into defence, Barber Boakes left side presses well for Kirkley & Pakefield, players on to attack the ball inside the Martham half, Anderson back to help the defence winning possession back for the visitors.

Kirkley & Pakefield stop any advance into their half the pass into Marnell right some 25/30 yards out goes for goal her effort claimed by Barnard in the Martham goal. The hosts making a determined start to the 2nd half players pressed on to battle for the ball, Miller with Filippus in the middle lively…

Kirkley & Pakefield midfielder, Scarlet Miller

GOAL! That early pressure bringing the break through the ball won 25 yards out to the right of the D, played across the top of the box into the feet of Barber Boakes 20 yards out goes to strike the ball, her shot racing in on goal past the keeper before she can react, and in off the inside of the left post to open the scoring 1-0.

Sophie Barber Boakes shot going in off the post to open the scoring for Kirkley & Pakefield

Martham falling behind 4 minutes into the 2nd half, look to get on the attack from the restart Bulloch on the drive through the middle, brought down winning the free-kick. Shearing over the set-piece 25 yards out again lines up the effort on goal getting plenty of zip behind the ball but not on target as Curtis sees it sail past her left post.

Kirkley & Pakefield making a change with Clarke coming off up top to be replaced by Paige Sterry. The low sun causing a few issues for the Kirkley & Pakefield defenders trying to pick out a pass up top, (at least the excuse being peddled). Bulloch making several determined runs with the ball at her feet through the middle for Martham lifts it over the top for Chambers out on the right channel, Siracusa going with her for Kirkley & Pakefield does well in defence to get across Chambers to see the ball back safely into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Having scored Kirkley & Pakefield have taken their foot off the gas allowed Martham to press players on down the flanks, the ball carried inside from the right 25 yards out the diagonal pass is fed into the box with Nekrews stealing into the box from the left to meet it angling her first time effort back across the keeper into the bottom corner to level thing’s up 1-1.

Ellie-Jay Nekrews equalises for Martham

The lead lasting just 4 minutes Kirkley & Pakefield needing to regroup, send the ball out to Barber Boakes attacking on their left flank drives inside looking to get into the area the ball knocked on for Sterry, right side of goal, Ashcroft closing her down the ball popping loose as Barber Boakes continues her run stabs it wide. Dennington coming back on for Martham goes into the back line replacing Ashcroft on the left. Scarlett Colby on too for Saunders.

Sophie Barber Boakes with Martham’s Cerys Speak

Chambers cutting inside from the right for Martham driven inside for Bulloch top of the D, Pogmore cutting it out well for Kirkley & Pakefield. Cleared to the right, Martham with numbers up regaining the ball look to return it back into the box, no advantage however play brought back for a late free-kick on the wing. Shearing dangerous with her set-piece deliveries dropping the ball in front of the keeper, another frantic scramble ensues in front of goal, no one getting a clear touch on the ball before the hosts wrestle it to safety.

Martham captain, Bethany Shearing

Nekrews with the ball at her feet on the left for Martham surging on inside hitting a strike on the run 25 yards out, frustrated to place her effort straight at the keeper. Martham with a quickly taken throw from Shearing on the right looking to play, Colby clear to attack inside the box, Curtis reacts quickly racing out to claim it for Kirkley & Pakefield.

Chambers skipping away with the ball out wide right for Martham delivering a looping cross into the near post, Curtis snatching hold of it with Colby closing her down. The game remains open both sides using the width of the pitch looking to stretch things, Speak lunging in to tackle Barber Boakes as she looks to turn off a Siracusa pass.

Sterry brought down on the right giving Kirkley & Pakefield a free-kick. Clarke replacing Sterry before the free-kick is taken. Angled in centrally comes into Clarke quickly reacts well to spin into a shot send it in on target, Barnard down sharply to make the blocking save the ball spinning away to her left threatening to creep in at the post. cleared off the line by a defender, even as Kerrison looks to blast it home from close range.

Martham goalkeeper, Laura Barnard

Bulloch with an ambitious volley from 30 yards out sends the ball wide of the mark for Martham. Players beginning to tire on both sides with little let up in the open nature of the game one side winning it back at the back, then looking to get it forwards quickly, Siracusa sending the ball on up the left wing for Barber Boakes breaks clear to run down the line, Fairbrother needing to come running across to close her down, putting in the tackle to send the ball out for a throw.

Martham defender, Baelie Fairbrother

Shearing taking the ball on for Martham threading the pass into Chambers on the right, looks to drive infield, Siracusa stretching out a leg to get hold of the ball for the hosts fires it up the line for Barber Boakes, seeing it down into her feet, attempts to turn, Speak closing her down for Martham. Fairbrother looks to have picked up a knock for Martham coming off on comes Jessica Pasco. The game stretched Kirkley & Pakefield with a throw high on the left taken quickly, Siracusa curling the ball into the top of the area, Shearing back to intercept for Martham then again as the ball deflected away to the right falls to the advancing McKay.

The game moving into the final 10 minutes, certainly has the feel it could go either way, Kirkley & Pakefield have willing runners up top, Miller putting the ball out to the left for Clarke to attack taking it on to the by-line held up, looks to shift it between her feet before sending in across the face of goal Barnard diving down to get hold of the ball. Kerrison stealing in on the ball out on the right bursting forwards, shooting on the angle 20 yards out, annoyed as the ball is screwed wide at the near post.

Martham over commit going forwards as Kirkley & Pakefield fight to regain possession outside their box, Marnell giving it to Siracusa who has space to carry it into on the left, Colby tracking back to deal with her getting in a timely tackle. The hosts pushing for the winner getting a corner on the left driven in low to the near post, defended deflected back out to the taker, played up into the top of the area for Miller positioned top of the D, attempts to curl a strike in on goal, can only pick out Barnard, the keeper getting hold of the ball.

Paige Searle

Martham pushing players on late on as they themselves look for the winning goal, Kirkley & Pakefield pressed back to defend their box, getting the ball upfield looking to expose their opponents at the back, Clarke through the middle, Dennington with the blocking tackle, the ball not cleared however as Barber Boakes left channel looks to take it on Speak with a blocking tackle forcing Barber Boakes wide, goes with her, with Saunders getting back to support the ball cleared.

Nekrews with the ball for Martham down in the left corner, winning her side a corner kick, players up into the area, congested at the near post as the ball is curled in at an inviting height, Curtis going to punch it, drops instead into the mix inside the six yard box, chaos as players from both sides attempt to get their foot on the ball, could go anywhere, is knocked in towards goal to the right, cleared off the line away to the right.

Martham pushing hard in the closing moments of the game winning a corner on the right, players up the ball fired in across the top of the six yard box bouncing up off the surface at the far post, Anderson leaping looking to meet it with her head, turning her chance wide. The final whistle blowing moments later, the points shared.

Melissa Anderson turning her header wide.

Full time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 1-1 Martham FC Ladies

Overall perhaps the fair result, but no doubt both sides will feel they could have won the game, created good opportunities. Kirkley & Pakefield showing a positive intent at the start of the 2nd half to get after the ball, take the lead. Sat back then as Martham looked for quick reply and took their opportunity. An even contest the game stretched as players began to tire and gaps opened up. The point enough to see Martham into 2nd spot with, Bure Valley Women Development losing against FC Viking & Valkyries Reserves, now 2 points behind leaders Brundall Bolts Women with a game in hand. Kirkley & Pakefield remain 7th but with games in hand themselves are more than capable of getting involved in the tussle at the top too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sundays Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. As tough a decision as any in choosing todays winner, contenders on both sides, both teams working hard in defence. Several performances to mention, firstly for Martham, Baelie Fairbrother putting in several good challenges at the back to win the ball for the visitors get around on the cover. Paige Searle winning her tackles in the middle, playing some good passes out to the flanks. Lily Bulloch getting hold of the ball making some driving runs in attack, finding good positions in and around the box. Emily Dennington with her pace causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few issues on the left. Bethany Shearing adding steel to the Martham midfield when she came on used the ball well, a threat from a set-piece. For Kirkley & Pakefield the three in defence all put in some vital tackles and blocks, Abbie Pogmore getting her foot in to win the ball turning play around, Sasha Friel covering well to get across to snub out threats, Daphne Siracusa too on the left side of defence closing down well. Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the attack with some strong runs to take the ball forwards constantly looking for an opening to set up a teammate. Sophie Barber Boakes with some good work too on the left opening the scoring. Karina Filippus with some great foot work in the middle of the park in a congested midfield to bring the ball away. The award though goes to Scarlet Miller worked hard though out to win the ball in front of her defence, carrying it out from the back with some good runs, tackled well and found herself in some great positions when Kirkley & Pakefield got the ball forwards.

Great to get down the leagues see some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, nice to return to Walmer Road, always a buzz of activity. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups today. Will certainly be interested to see how both fair during the rest of the season and good luck to both.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women Development v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 26th January

ERWFL Division One North

A trip down to Hertfordshire this Sunday to catch some action from ERWFL Division One North, with Stevenage FC Women Development hosting 2nd placed Newmarket Town Women.

Harpenden Town Women looking strong favourites to clinch the title at the 2nd attempt in ERWFL Division One North, but there are a trio of sides looking to push them all the way battling for the places below, Newmarket Town Women amongst them currently 2nd in the table behind, AFC Dunstable Women and Histon Ladies. As competitive at the other end with the pressure on with 3 sides facing relegation, Stevenage FC Women Development edging their way out of the bottom 3 still have alot of work to do to avoid drop.

The hosts looking to build on recent results a 1-0 win at home in the league to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies seeing them move out of the bottom three. Followed that up with victory in the quarter finals of the Herts Women’s Trophy last weekend, having won the competition last season in it’s inaugural year. Joining the ERWFL last season as the league expanding to it’s full compliment of sides, had a tough league campaign, but to go along with their county cup success, also reached the final of the ERWFL League Plate. Backing up the 1st team plying in the Premier League above have used alot of players this season 39 to date as they struggled to find a winning formula an opening day win followed by a series of losses a couple of wins and draws have seen Stevenage push hard to get themselves out of trouble at the wrong end of the table. Eva Delaney top scorer with 5 goals from 7 matches, has made 8 appearances too for the 1st team. Stephanie Fausse scoring 4 from her 11 appearances.

Last saw Newmarket Town Women in action back in October, at Thetford Town Ladies came into the game off the back of a good win at home against AFC Dunstable Women having had a frustrating start to the season. Going on to beat Thetford 2-0 was the 2nd win in a run of 7 straight league wins that helped propel Newmarket up to 2nd in the table. That 7 run winning streak ended ironically by Dunstable in another frustrating result last weekend. Traditionally a club that has built it’s foundations on a strong youth policy bringing players up through the age group from 8 onwards. Have an U18’s and Development side backing up the 1st team, two Development players making their senior debuts today in fact, Hannah Marsh and Ailie Rennie. Millie Docking currently Newmarket’s top scorer with 14 goals so far from 15 games, hot on her heels Katie Spiers netting 12 times from 14 matches.

Once again the weather was going to play a big part in the weekend, Storm Eowyn blowing through in midweek, another band of wet and windy weather forecast for Sunday, not likely to hit to the afternoon so another bout of mass postponements unlikely, but knowing it was going to be a wet one really didn’t fancy standing out in the elements to take my notes, the camera’s taken a bit of a battering of late too so off the The County Ground in Letchworth home of Hertfordshire FA, and Stevenage’s woman’s sides. The main stand covered wit seating over the café area serving hot food and drink. The wind blowing the rain into the stand however a better option lay on the other side of the artificial playing surface a covered terraced stand protecting spectators from the elements and it was most definitely needed the rain falling as the sides warmed up, a strong breeze blowing across the pitch too was going to be miserable to play in.

Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Shannon Alderman, Katie Boyle, Jessica Preston, Neave Wilson (C), Abigail Hunt, Isobel Mayfield, Ellie Merkis, Ebba Taylor-Pugh, Kelsey Millen, Kristal Clarke & Sophie Hendy. Subs – Holly Southam, Remi Martin, Kiera Mynott, Sarah Payne & Lilly Kelly.

Stevenage FC Women Development

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Hannah Marsh, Ellie Sturgess, Ailie Rennie, Katie Walker (C), Holly Corley, Abi Gibson, Abbi Griffin, Amelia Thompson & Millie Docking. Subs – Abbie Corbyn, Eden Kirby-Cook & Fliss Payne.

Newmarket Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Stevenage welcome back Sarah Payne, on the bench today having made her long awaited return to play again on the 12 of January having suffered an ACL injury that has since her out for 491 days. Good to see her back. Newmarket giving senior debuts to Hannah March and Ailie Rennie both lining up in defence.

Captain’s Neave Wilson and Katie Walker with today’s referee, Rhys Stewart

It’s Stevenage to kick-off the 1st half with the rain falling steadily wearing white shirts with red trim, red shorts and white socks with Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball played back into the defence, Newmarket rush forwards to close the ball down forcing a rushed pass long up to the right, Kelsey Millen though able to race on through to burst down the right wing cutting a cross back in towards the top of the area, Holly Dryland stretching out a leg to intercept and clear at the back for Newmarket.

Both sides snapping into heir challenges the ball out of play for a series of throws with neither making headway through the middle. The visitors winning a free-kick out wide on the right inside the Stevenage half, bring players forwards from the back as the ball is curled into the top of the area, missed by the Stevenage defence runs through to Dryland pulling clear into the box left of goal, drags her shot wide of the left post, play brought back however as she had run offside.

Newmarket’s Ellie Sturgess bringing the ball out of defence looking up to send a long ball into the right channel with Amelia Thompson looking to break in behind. Stevenage goalkeeper, alert to the threat out quickly to the top of her area to grab hold of the ball. The hosts looking a little unsettled in the early exchanges taking a few chances in possession at the back, Alderman looking to play a short pass out of her six yard box to captain Neave Wilson positioned to the left corner of her area, attacker, Millie Docking stealing in with a raised foot to intercept the pass, deflects the ball straight back towards goal but thankfully for Alderman straight into her gloves.

The rain falling heavily, Newmarket looking to be positive get players on through the middle, Abbi Griffin and Abi Gibson pulling into the flanks right and left. Ebba Taylor-Pugh latching onto the ball in the middle of the park for Stevenage driving on, is taken down late after she releases the ball forwards for Sophie Hendy in attack, play brought back for the free-kick top of the centre circle. Taylor-Pugh to take herself floats a ball into the box dropping far post, Dominika Szary across her goal to cover for Newmarket can see it safely out of play.

Ailie Rennie tackling for Newmarket

Playing conditions tough the wind swirling with the rain, free-kicks being given away. Newmarket looking to use the flanks get the ball moving across the pitch with purpose. Holly Corley sliding a pass into Griffin on the right, clips a cross into the top of the area, Abigail Hunt turning it away to the left for the hosts. Kristal Clarke seeing the ball into her feet for Stevenage 30 yards out to the left makes a strong run on the ball inside towards the Newmarket box, running into traffic, the Newmarket defence going to close her down, does well to send the ball on to the right for Millen to take on steal into the area making for the by-line sends a cross into the near post, Dryland running back towards her own goal cutting it out.

Newmarket’s Holly Dryland

Winning the ball back in midfield Newmarket play the ball on for Corley moving out to the left cuts back inside 30 plus yards out to play the ball into Griffin unmarked, 25 yards out to the right of the Stevenage area, puts her foot though the ball, driving it in towards goal flying over the keepers head, smashes down into the area off the bar! Hunt reacting a split second before Docking to scramble the ball clear as she goes in to attack the follow up.

Stevenage defender, Abigail Hunt

Millen providing a useful outlet for Stevenage on the right flank the ball coming to her from the middle she brings it under control making a surge towards the Newmarket box, Sturgess closing her down to put in the tackle to win the ball back. Cleared up to Docking wide on the left lays it inside for Thompson 25 yards out who in turn sends it down the line for Gibson pushing into the corner, held up by Stevenage’s Katie Boyle plays the ball instead up the line to Dryland who clips it into the top of the area, Wilson getting it clear as Thompson looks to bring it down.

Newmarket regain possession quickly get the ball out to Griffin on the right the ball driven low in towards goal, Alderman reacting quickly getting something on the ball to deflect it away across her six yard box out for a corner kick. Curled in across goal, dropping far post the ball in turned towards goal, Alderman snatching hold of it from close range.

Newmarket getting players on, Stevenage reacting well to get the ball out of there half look to exploit the gaps at back, Taylor-Pugh bringing the ball inside off the left wing lifting a ball over the top, Hendy looking to attack it, Szary out of her area rapidly to put her foot through the ball to clear. Szary needing to come along way out of her area as Stevenage catch Newmarket on the break Taylor-Pugh with the pass to send Clarke clear on the left, the keeper reaching it first to put out for a throw. Stevenage slow to react can’t capitalise with Szary out of position.

Ebba Taylor-Pugh bringing the ball on for Stevenage

The weather awful driving rain, both sides undeterred nevertheless a lively contest, Stevenage winning a free-kick wide on the left, Taylor-Pugh to send into the box, Szary with the claim at her near post. Katie Walker captaining Newmarket playing the ball out to Docking pulling to the right 25 yards out sends the ball back into the Stevenage D, looking for Thompson, Hunt getting her boot in the way to deflect the ball out for a throw on the left.

Docking sees the ball down off her feet, turning back to goal to attack from the right, Wilson lunging in with the tackle to take the ball from the attacker before she can burst into the box. Newmarket playing some neat short passes in their build up in front of the Stevenage area, Corley with Docking and Thompson the ball fed through in behind for Gibson breaking into the box from the left, Alderman though able to snatch hold of it before the midfielder can strike.

Midway through the first half an intriguing contest, the weather playing it’s part, Gibson bringing the ball down off of a throw on the left 25 yards out turning to lay the ball on for Docking top of the D, head down intends to drive for the area, up against Wilson, Stevenage’s captain, tackling well to halt her advance.

Stevenage’s captain, Neave Wilson

Newmarket pressing well getting the ball on into Gibson left plays it into the box for Docking stealing into the box left of goal, six yards out closing in on the near post turns her shot goal wards, Alderman making a brilliant save with her legs deflecting the ball away from danger. The chances mounting up for Newmarket.

Stevenage goalkeeper, Shannon Alderman

Stevenage’s Clarke strong in possession looking to drive her side forwards, Taylor-Pugh up with her though the middle on for Hendy, Sturgess closing her down. Stevenage making a change as they bring off Clarke, send on Lilly Kelly to join the attack. Dryland pushing on with the ball down Newmarket’s left sending a diagonal ball in towards the top of the D, Ellie Merkis back to head it clear for Stevenage. The visitors quick to regain possession however, risk over committing in attack leaving themselves exposed at the back, Wilson getting the ball out of defence into Isobel Mayfield she sends a good ball into the right channel for Millen to attack, Szary again out of her area dealing with the threat.

Newmarket attacker, Millie Docking

Sturgess high inside her half with the ball plays it over the top for Docking to race through to attack top of the box, Alderman rushing out to close her down making the blocking save with her legs. The ball loose, Thompson looking to race in on the follow up, Alderman does well adjusting on the ground diving to snatch hold of the ball.

Newmarket defender, Ellis Sturgess

The rain has slowed for now but the swirling wind remains, Newmarket win the ball back in the middle, Corley playing the ball to Griffin right, lifted into Docking back to goal right of the D, 25 yards out turns well to strike the ball her half volley rising on target, Alderman with another excellent save throwing an arm up to turn the ball over her crossbar for a corner kick. The resulting corner curled in onto the roof of the net.

Holly Corley

Millen looks to go it alone as she gets hold of the ball on Stevenage’s right cutting inside, Sturgess standing up against her the centre back winning her tackle. Kelly stealing onto the ball for Stevenage inside the Newmarket half makes a powerful run towards the opposition box before laying it o her right for Taylor-Pugh to take on, Dryland moving in to slow her down forcing her wider, the midfielder still managing to get a strike away 20 yards out but over the bar.

Kelly coming on giving Stevenage a little more thrust going forwards looking to get hold of the ball and power her way into the final 3rd, looks to release Hendy to her left, Rennie cutting the pass out for Newmarket outside her box. Corley looks to have picked up a knock for Newmarket comes off in midfield to be replaced by Fliss Payne.

Into the closing moments of the first half Thompson with the ball on the left for Newmarket lays it on for Gibson running into the corner, held up check back inside to whip a cross into the top of the area, Griffin looking to attack it right of the D, forcing another save from Alderman.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-0 Newmarket Town Women

Goalless at the break, frustrating from Newmarket’s point of view, have created some good opportunities, struck the woodwork, and forced some excellent saves from Stevenage’s keeper, Shannon Alderman. Those saves though keeping her side firmly in the game, the hosts looking unsettled at the start slowly coming into their own the game opening up have looked a threat on the break. Awful conditions to play in with their showing no signs of things letting up.

No changes for Newmarket as they emerge from the changing rooms, Stevenage making a switch with Remi Martin on at the back for Preston. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway played out to the right with Martin seeing the ball out for a throw in. Stevenage looking to make a positive start to the 2nd half, Mayfield playing the ball on for Kelly left side turns to attack driving on comes infield before being stopped by Sturgess.

Hannah Marsh tackling Stevenage’s Lilly Kelly

Stevenage aiming to press the ball higher winning a free-kick in a dangerous position out wide on their right inside the Newmarket half, the delivery fired in low into the near post cleared by Newmarket’s Thompson. The ball deflected back out to the right with Stevenage played up the line the cross flung into the near post area from deep, Szary up well to claim the ball.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

A different tempo to the 2nd half Stevenage looking to press higher, sees the game opening up, Payne in the middle for Newmarket sending the ball on through the middle looking for Docking in attack, Wilson winning the header for Stevenage. Alderman’s turn to call and claim the ball at her near post as Newmarket win a free-lick out wide on their left flank.

Stevenage clearing the ball up to Kelly inside the Newmarket half in the right, Marsh close in on her as the attacker looks to untangle the ball from her body turns into the full back, harsh on Marsh as she is penalised for handball giving Stevenage a free-kick, deep on the left, clipping into the top of the area, Payne winning the header for the visitors to clear.

Sarah Payne controlling the ball for Stevenage

Stevenage making another change early in the 2nd half, with Sarah Payne continuing her comeback from injury coming on to replace Handy, going into an attacking position alongside Kelly. Marsh bringing the ball on for Newmarket right side sending it through for Griffin to attack, plays a deep cross in diagonally to the far post, a little too much on it for Docking.

Walker carrying the ball on through the middle for Newmarket passes it on for Thompson in the left channel 25 yards out bursts inside her tough a little heavy, allows Wilson to get her foot on the ball to kick clear. A free flowing contest Docking with a great first touch back to goal 25 out top of the D, spins in behind as she lays it out to Griffin to the right of goal taking the ball into the area goes to shoot across the keeper, Alderman with another breath taking save throwing out her left hand to parry the ball into the ground, Docking racing in on the follow-up not quite able to catch t on the volley, as Hunt sends it clear for the hosts.

Marsh gets away down the right with the ball for Newmarket the full back firing a cross into the box, Docking tracking in to attack it making contact on the run sends her effort over the bar. Newmarket pressing Griffin playing the ball out to the left for Gibson to attack in the corner winning her side a corner kick, players up into the area as the ball is swung into the near post area defended the ball back out to the corner taker on the left returns a high ball back into the mix, Sarah Payne defending for Stevenage.

Abi Gibson with Isobel Mayfield

All action the ball never still, Walker sends Gibson away down the left for Newmarket, Boyle defending for Stevenage preventing the cross. Newmarket pushing up are taking a risk off being exposed at the back, Szary though is something of a sweeper at the back willing to rush out of her area deal with a threat if it comes her way. Clarke returning to the field for Stevenage coming on for Taylor-Pugh.

Clarke straight into the action strong on the ball pressing through the middle out to Millen right side wins a corner kick. Players up from the back the corner curled into the near post, Clarke up with Szary as she comes for the ball, miscues her punch the ball deflected on into her own net but it won’t count, disallowed, the referee blowing up for a foul on the keeper, much to the grievance of the Stevenage fans.

Stevenage see a goal disallowed

A little tension creeping into the game, Clarke adding some steal to the Stevenage attack plays a cute pass over the top that sees Millen beat the offside trap, Newmarket getting back at her to deflect the ball away for a throw on the right. Kelly digging the ball out from under her feet as it comes into her quickly turns to release Millen on the right for Stevenage a quick fire attack the cross flashed into the six yard box, Szary getting a glove on the ball to punch clear with Sarah Payne inches away.

Sarah Payne combining with Clarke as Stevenage build through the middle turning the ball out to the right for Clarke to attack breaking into the area, Sturgess getting across her run the shield the ball out of play for a goal kick. Open play Newmarket turning play around rapidly as Fliss Payne lifts a good ball forwards for Griffin cutting in from the left channel, Alderman rushing out, Griffin knocks the ball wide of her into the box racing after it at the near post, the angle closed as the Stevenage defence recover Griffin plays it across goal, but can’t pick out a teammate the ball launched clear.

Stevenage’s Kristal Clarke

End to end. Wilson with a clever turn on the ball as she wins it high for Stevenage clipping it into the right wing for Clarke to break away, has no one with her however as she plays the ball into the box, Newmarket clear and get straight on the attack, going left the ball fired into the box has Docking bearing down on goal six yards left side shoots, Alderman with the blocking save, deflected out to the top of the area, Griffin latching onto the ball fires her first time effort wide of the far post.

Merkis with room to play the ball in the middle plays a great ball out to Kelly on the right looks to bring it down off her body spin of Marsh as she comes to close her down, the full back, with a superb tackle to get her foot on the ball prevents Kelly from racing in behind. Into the last 15 minutes of the game, feel it can go either way right now and one goal from either side would seal the win. The rain starting to fall heavily again just to add to the drama.

Stevenage’s Ellis Merkis

Kelly seeing the ball down into her feet off a throw on the left for Stevenage, digs it free to get inside to fire a cross into Millen positioned right of the D, looking to control it off her chest strike the ball, Sturgess gets in the way to block for the visitors. Thompson lining up a shot from range for Newmarket held by Alderman. Thompson’s last action of the contest as she comes off with Corley send back into the action.

Neave Wilson winning the ball

Alderman down quickly to save from Griffin now operating on the left as the cross-field ball comes into her from the right. Stevenage with another change, Martin coming off to be replaced by Holly Southam at the back. Gibson on for Walker driving forwards for Newmarket central pushes it into Docking top of the D, turns runs into Wilson the ball half cleared to Griffin 20 out sends a high ball looping into the box, Alderman keeping her eye on it making the catch with Docking closing her down.

Clarke off for Stevenage with Kiera Mynott entering the action with 5 minutes left to play. Stevenage winning a free-kick wide on the right inside the Newmarket half, flighted into the near side, Wilson gets her head on the ball twisting to turn the ball on across t the far post, runners closing in but no meaningful contact as it runs behind for a goal kick. Stevenage regain possession at the back left side, Southam on for Mynott turns to send it down the line into Kelly wide looking for the return pass as she breaks into the area, Mynott receives it only for her attempt to shoot being charged down by Rennie.

Lilly Kelly on the attack for Stevenage

The clock ticking down into stoppage time the rain falling steadily Stevenage have a throw on the left inside the Newmarket half, Southam launching the throw into the box for Kelly to run onto left of goal bearing down on the six yard box, goes to shoot with the outside of her right foot her attempt inches wide of the near post!

Seconds left as Kelly gets hold of the ball drives through the middle, runs into traffic, Merkis regaining possession to clip the ball out to Kelly moving left, looks to turn on the ball drag it down the line, Marsh again close on her to deny the move. The final whistle blows the points are shared.

Full time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-0 Newmarket Town Women

Goalless draws are rare in women’s football, and even rarer on here, but this don’t let that fool you this was an enthralling contest, played in some awful conditions. As the clock ticked on you felt one goal could win it but that could have gone either way. Newmarket with a host of chances will feel unlucky not to be leaving Stevenage with 3 points but came up against a dogged defence and inspired keeper, couldn’t take their chances, hitting the woodwork and forcing a number of saves. Stevenage with an improved 2nd half seeing a goal disallowed may well have won it themselves in the dying seconds. This was as enjoyable a 0-0 as you could get, but then I was neutral so it might just have been me.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders but really only one clear winner. Both sides played their part some great performances out there, firstly for Newmarket, Millie Docking showed great movement and endeavour up front, coming for the ball and turning to attack, creating chances for herself and other on another afternoon has a hat-trick. Abbi Griffin providing a great outlet on the right, making several strong runs coming close to scoring herself. Abi Gibson with some fantastic movement to take the ball on. Solid debuts for the senior team for Hannah Marsh and Ailie Rennie at the back, while Ellie Sturgess won the majority of her tackles. For Stevenage, captain, Neave Wilson was superb winning the ball, strong in her tackles, got her team moving forwards. Ebba Taylor-Pugh with some great midfield running looked to link up the attack. Kristal Clarke strong with the ball showed great attacking intent. Lilly Kelly looking to receive the ball making some great runs on the ball. Kelsey Millen a constant outlet for the hosts on the right ready to race in behind creating chances. Today’s award winner is goalkeeper, Shannon Alderman, pulled off a number of fantastic saves which no doubt kept her side in the game all the way to the end.

Alright it was 0-0 but I enjoyed it despite the weather, both sides gave it there all could have gone either way in the finish. Players missing for both sides, but vital minutes for others, ERWFL Division One North is really competitive this season look forward to seeing how it all pans out. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams, I managed to stay dry too which is always a bonus.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Sunday 19th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Seaward FC

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL South East Division One

A late start to 2025 for myself, but so too for many clubs with the weather at the start of the year leading to two successive weekends of substantial postponements. Thankfully today’s planned match is on, albeit relocated to the neighbouring astro pitch as Cambridge United WFC look to continue their recent good form as they take on London Seaward FC in FAWNL South East Division One.

Representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid FAWNL South East Division One has proven an intriguing league to follow in the first half of the 2024/25 season with 9 of the 12 sides staying in close contention with no one able to break away and it will certainly be interesting to see who can emerge on top come the end of the season.

Cambridge United WFC amongst that pack, a frustrating run of defeats seeing momentum stalled towards the end of the year, injuries to key players at the start of the season and early into the season not helping, have gradually got back to full strength and a positive run to end 2024 picking up to huge wins against Actonians and Norwich City saw the club rebuild momentum and get back at amongst the cluster of sides above them, earning manager Darren Marjoram a nomination for FAWNL Division One manager of the month along the way.

Striker Sarah Wiltshire back at the start of this season after having her 3rd child breaking her arm, on season’s eve. Bella Simmons has stepped up to provide the goals in her absence netting 12 so far this season, and with Wiltshire now back and scoring herself Cambridge have a potent attack along with Alysha Stojko-Down in midfield who has 6 goals to her name to date. Defender, Ella Finneran, joining from London Seaward FC over the summer another suffering injury in pre-season has taken her a while to return to match fitness, no playing a keen to show what she can do.

London Seaward FC formed from the old Leyton Orient side that gained promotion to the FAWNL a few season’s back, Leyton Orient FC pulling their support and name for the women’s side they became an independent women’s football club, with a strong squad and young manager in Dan McKimm who quickly earned a high reputation, eventually leading to him being offered the London Bees management role, that has seen several London Seaward players move across the capital to join him.

The loss of manager and a good portion of players over the summer saw something of a rebuild take place at London Seaward, possessing a healthy squad of players, nevertheless have had to bring several new players in, amongst those, goalkeeper, Alex Baker a vastly having played for Billericay Town Women and defender, Beatrice Rogers who started last season with Cambridge United WFC. An unsettled spell the managers role now taken on by Jason Murray as the club looks to beat the drop. Despite starting the season with a win London Seaward FC find themselves in a battle to avoid relegation along side Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and Chesham United Women, with 2 of the 3 going down. Just a single point earnt since, have nevertheless been working hard, fighting for points encouraged in recent games a narrow 1-0 loss at home to Norwich last weekend felt they could have taken something from the game. Katherine Long top scorer with 5 goals to her name.

With the freezing weather looking to put pay to the action on the grass pitches this weekend, Cambridge had a back-up playing at St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the site has an astro itch situated behind the main stadium. Permission sought to relocate the game to get it on. Have covered a few games on the pitch not recently however, the fenced pitch now having a small covered area by the side for spectators as well and standing viewing behind one goal. A few layers on to protect from the cold, felt quite pleasant actually, if just above freezing a warm cup of tea helping. A large pitch offering good width.

Today’s game relocated to the Premier Plus Stadium’s astro pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb Lauren Rouse Abbie Jackson, Elle Finneran, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Eva Hubbard (C), Serena Cobb, Alysha Stojko-Down, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten, Sammy Edgar & Rosy Wodhams.

Cambridge United WFC

London Seaward FC starting XI – Alex Baker, Mia South, Rochelle Mayne, Niamh McKevitt, Beatrice Rogers, Sharne Harris, Maisie Cannon (C), Suzy Davies, Laila Malcolm, Leila Awan & Cloe O’Brien. Subs – Lily Aungier, Emma Cianter & Zainab El-Mouden.

London Seaward FC

Captain’s Maisie Cannon and Eva Hubbard with today’s referee, Sarah Tonks

Cambridge getting back to full strength have Elle Finneran in a defence making her 2nd start of the season. The hosts having the kick-off in the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. London Seaward lining up without top scorer Long opposite wearing light blue shirts with a navy swirl design, navy shorts and light blue socks. Cambridge launching the ball out to the right wing for Charlotte Gillies to attack as she bursts forwards, Sharne Harris under it to win the header for the visitors the ball out for a throw in.

Cambridge looking to press the ball high up the pitch in the early exchanges Gillies on the right in to close the ball down inside for Sarah Wiltshire she looks to release Gillies down the line, held up by Harris knocked back up the pitch to be crossed into the box, Niamh McKevitt heading clear inside the box for London Seaward. The visitors regain possession in the middle look to counter attack, Suzy Davies taking the ball forwards through the middle with a powerful run threading it out to the right flanks for Leila Awan, looks to take the ball on, Cambridge defender Abbie Jackson moving out to close her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw.

London Seaward’s Leila Awan

Both sides competitive looking to win the ball, Cloe O’Brien up top for London Seaward moving about the ground looking to close down the defence, Finneran dispossessing Awan as she looks to attack on the right again, the ball cleared into Bella Simmons on halfway turns and drives forwards with the ball for Cambridge laying it out to captain Eva Hubbard drifting out to the left side, Awan tracking back to help in defence closing her down before she turns inside looking to cross.

O’Brien fouling Finneran as she brings the ball on down the left a free-kick on half way the ball lifted out to the right side, Gillies taking it on whipping a cross low into the near post, Rochelle Mayne able to shield it back to her keeper as Wiltshire looks to attack it. Simmons with some great movement coming for the ball for Cambridge and turning to drive at the London Seaward defence moving right looks to send Gillies on down the line, Harris getting her foot out to block the pass bring the ball away for the visitors.

Competitive, a few robust challenges being made free-kicks given away, Alysha Stojko-Down with the pass into Simmons moving into the right channel 25 yards out attempts to feed the ball on for Wiltshire ahead of her as she breaks into the box, Mayne getting across her to see the ball back safely to her keeper. A pause in play as both Davies for London Seaward and Rouse for Cambridge are down with knocks, both hobbling slightly as they get back to their feet but both okay to play on. The Cambridge defence pushed up often to the halfway line as the hosts look to press London Seaward.

Jackson winning the ball at the back for Cambridge lifting a great pass forwards for Ella Marden on the left, into the corner has Wiltshire coming to support, taking the ball inside sends a dangerous ball looping across the face of the London Seaward goal on the angle out past the far post for a goal-kick.

Ella Marden taking the ball on for Cambridge

Cambridge winning the ball well looking to get forwards, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left wing sees her cross, deflected behind of Mia South for a corner kick. Swept in across the six yard box dropping far post, no one can make contact as London Seaward retrieve the ball and look to break up the left with Harris on the ball. O’Brien fighting for the ball in the Cambridge half, squirms away with it looking for options, Beatrice Rogers providing an attacking run on the right, the Cambridge back line hold their line well, Rogers straying offside.

Beatrice Rogers stretching to win the ball for London Seaward

Rogers doing the defending up the other end as Cambridge looking to send a diagonal ball from the centre into Stojko-Down as she breaks forwards into the left channel, Rogers winning the ball. Simmons linking up with Gillies as Cambridge attack down the right, Gillies delivering a vicious cross into the penalty box, Wiltshire looking to cushion it down into her feet hit on the half volley, the touch a fraction to heavy, giving Mayne the vital fraction of a second to swing her leg out launch the ball clear.

London Seaward defender, Rochelle Mayne

Hubbard up on the left for Cambridge with the hosts winning the ball back on halfway a strong forwards run, Rogers closing her down to tackle win the ball back the visitors looking to launch a rapid counter attack the ball played into Awan central, Rogers bursting on up the right sees the ball played into her path taking it on down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, however making a comfortable catch.

Suzy Davies carrying the ball forwards for London Seaward

Cambridge with the lions share of the ball going forwards, London Seaward absorbing alot at the back, nevertheless look a threat on the counter attack and lively Cambridge can’t afford to get complacent in possession. Harris bringing the ball on well on the left for London Seaward, O’Brien coming to receive the ball, turns looking to attack the Cambridge defence, runs into Rouse, doesn’t get very far.

London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon

London Seaward captain, Maisie Cannon getting hold of the ball forwards for Davies on to Awan right side attempts to turn infield, Finneran stretching out a leg winning the ball back for Cambridge. Laila Malcolm with a strong challenge to win the ball for the visitors, O’Brien coming back to receive the ball, turns sending the threaded ball into Awan on the right, comes inside her cross intercepted outside the box.

Cambridge’s Elle Finneran

Harris fouled by Stojko-Down on halfway, South over the set-piece as London Seaward send players up the field. The ball lifted into the top of the Cambridge box, Jackson attacking it to win the header clearing for Cambridge. Simmons picking the ball up from deep for Cambridge with another powerful run with the ball drifting right lays it out to Gillies who runs it to the by-line before whipping her cross into the six yard box, Rogers pulling her foot through the ball as she turns in front of goal to clear the ball away to the left for a throw.

Cambridge building pressure pushing players on Hubbard left with Stojko-Down who is fouled outside the area to the left of goal. The free-kick floated into the far post area knocked down the ball blocked inside the six yard box, half cleared a shot struck from outside the area on the right also blocked with London Seaward all back to defend. Cambridge winning the ball back inside the final 3rd a shot from range on the right driven in on goal straight at the keeper, Baker with a straight forward save.

O’Brien up top on her own getting about well to try and press the Cambridge defence, frustrated a little too strong with her tackles at times. Malcolm getting hold of the ball for London Seaward looks for the run of Awan to the right, lays it inside for O’Brien, but she is closely marked by Jackson who prevents her turning 30 yards out.

Cloe O’Brien bringing the ball under control for London Seaward

Cambridge on the attack right side the cross-field ball out to the left won by Marden outside the area played into the area for Wiltshire to latch onto, burst on towards the near post in behind the defence gets her strike away on the angle, Baker behind the ball reacting well beating the ball down, her defence quick to recover to scramble the ball away to safety as Simmons races in to try and attack the loose ball.

Davies and Marden tussling for the ball out on the left, Marden winning the free-kick on half way. Flung out to the right side, Simmons fouled as an overly high challenge comes in attempting to win the ball. The set-piece 30 yards out to the right of goal. Wiltshire’s ball into the top of the area cleared out to the left Marden latching onto it sending it back in towards the far post Jackson looking to attack it a faint touch out behind for a goal kick.

London Seaward keep soaking up the pressure ready to launch the counter Davies marching forwards with the ball playing a diagonal pass out to Harris bombing on up the left coming inside fires a ball into the area angling across goal, Webb can see it safely wide of her far post. Awan with good foot work on the ball wriggling away to burst forwards left channel before being upended by Rouse winning the free kick. South on the set-piece lifted into the top of the area, Jackson with the clearing header once again.

Abbie Jackson heading the ball clear for Cambridge

Cambridge guilty of giving away free kicks inviting a little pressure themselves, the ball played into the box from deep on the left is missed by the defence as it drops on the penalty spot, O’Brien’s eyes lighting up as she snatches a shot away, Webb with a fantastic save from point blank range saving with her legs as the ball is struck at her, deflected away to the right and cleared for a throw in.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

London Seaward encouraged from the throw 25 yards out dropped into O’Brien turns to send the ball into Awan top of the D takes the ball over to the left looking for an opening takes on the strike from 20 yards out dragging her effort wide of the left post.

Hubbard out to Marden attacking down Cambridge’s left sends the ball into the London Seaward box, Stojko-Down running in near side turns the ball wide of the post. Malcolm into Harris on the left for London Seaward up the wing into Awan, drives forwards before being brought down right on the edge of the area. A dangerous position, South on the set-piece fired into the the Cambridge wall.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Cambridge for all their attacking play frustrated by London Seaward, matching their formation dropping back, clear cut chances hard to come by, Hubbard from a free-kick central playing the ball on for Simmons, looks to knock it down for Stojko-Down positioned top of the box, Mayne in close on her defending for London Seaward. Wiltshire pulled down as she attacks out right for Cambridge 25 yards from goal. Over the resulting free-kick herself swings the ball in close on goal, Baker getting up well to claim the ball for the visiting side.

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down with London Seawards’ Laila Malcolm

The first half rapidly drawing to a close, Baker with the ball in her gloves with the drop kick, smashes the ball against the back of one of her unsuspecting defenders 20 yards out floored the ball rebounds straight into the path of Wiltshire outside the D, takes a wild swing at the ball attempting to find the exposed goal, instead pulls her attempt wide of the left post thankfully for Baker.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 London Seaward FC

The sides head into the changing room goalless at the break. A spirted display in defence from London Seaward have soaked up alot of pressure without presenting their opponents with many clear cut opportunities. Cambridge on top in terms of possession, maybe a little frustrated winning the first ball well, the 2nd not so much as London Seaward work hard to close it down in the final 3rd. The visitors actually with the best opportunity in the first half forcing a point blank save from Webb. Have looked to break with pace turn play around so far frustrating Cambridge.

No changes for either side as the floodlights come on at the beginning of the 2nd half, what little (warmth) there was has faded time to get the hat out as the two sides emerge for from the changing rooms neither making a change with London Seaward getting the 2nd 45 underway. The back into midfield finding it’s way back to Baker in goal as Cambridge look to get on the front foot straight away pressing the ball.

Simmons taking the ball on up the right wing playing the pass inside to Cobb pushing on towards the box looks to send the ball inside towards Wiltshire, can’t quite bring it down under control as McKevitt closes her down the ball cleared away to the left side, Marden latching onto the shot 25 yards out sending a powerful shot in towards goal, threatening to fly in under the crossbar Baker with a wonderful save getting a glove up to tip the ball over the crossbar.

London seaward defender, Niamh McKevitt

From the resulting corner on the right the delivery is curled in across the face of goal dropping far post met by Jackson’s head six yards out planted her attempt straight at the keeper, Baker grabbing hold of the ball. Cambridge with a positive start to the 2nd half have London Seaward pushed back into the final 3rd, Malcolm fouling Simmons as she looks to keep hold of the ball on the right. Jackson playing the free-kick on up the right for Simmons as she looks to combine with Gillies playing the one two, Harris going with Gillies able to see Simmons return pass out of play for a goal-kick.

Hubbard getting forwards on the left for Cambridge brought down outside the area. Wiltshire over the set-piece from the angle 25 yards out takes on the shot, Baker behind it all the way to save comfortably. Fouls being given away on both sides, London Seaward finding it harder to get out from the back as Cambridge work to close the ball down keep building pressure.

Thing’s tight in the box, Cambridge getting players on struggling to carve a hole through a determined London Seaward defence, South putting in the blocking tackle as Hubbard looks to lay Stojko-Down in left of goal. Jackson intercepting on half way for Cambridge playing the ball back into the middle for Hubbard who has Cobb breaking forwards ahead of her into the right channel, seeing the ball into her feet drives on, Harris coming to close her down with a strong tackle to get the ball clear for the visitors.

London Seaward’s, Sharne Harris

Won’t stick up top, O’Brien working hard still to close the defence down, lacking support with her side pushed back, does well though to win her side a free-kick out on the left 30 yards from goal, an opportunity to relief the pressure, South on the ball, sends a high ball looping up in towards goal, Webb not distracted by runners closing in keeping her eye on the ball to take a clean catch.

Cambridge making the first change of the game with Rosy Wodhams coming onto the pitch, in place of Marden with Hubbard moving over to the left. Simmons out to the right for Cambridge taking the ball on from Gillies driving into the corner, whips a low cross into the near post close on goal, Mayne tracking back, getting their in front of Wiltshire to intercept. Wodhams adding another threat with her midfield runs for Cambridge driving at the defence, Cannon lunging in to halt her run.

Maisie Cannon winning the ball for London Seaward

Wodhams seeing the ball down into her feet from a throw on the right as Cambridge look to find the break through, turns quickly to thread the pass into the area for Stojko-Down bursting clear right of goal, the angle closing down releases her strike, targeting the near post, Baker down sharply to divert the ball into the side netting, corner.

The delivery comes looping in beyond the far post the six yard box crowded, the ball headed back over to the right side, turned behind for a 2nd corner. Hubbard playing the ball back into the area headed clear for a throw on the right. Simmons pushed over out wide on the right for Cambridge 25 yards out, Wiltshire to deliver the set-piece into the area, knocked clear into Wodhams central, lays it back to Wiltshire who sweeps the ball into the far post area on the angle, Jackson attacking it driving her header wide of the far post, the London Seaward defence stepping up well though catching her offside.

Most of the play inside the London Seaward half, Cambridge knocking on the door looking for the opening goal, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left sweeping a cross long into the box, Harris dealing with it for London Seaward. Tense out there, London Seaward battling, Cambridge a little frustrated, attack on the right Wiltshire quicker to the ball snatching onto it as she breaks into the area wide of goal from the angle looks to shoot across the keeper, Baker down well pushing the ball away to the left. Cambridge retrieving left side clipping the ball back into the mix, Mayne up stretching to meet it with her head very nearly turns the ball into her own net, Baker with the reactive save at close range to beat the ball down, a scramble for the ball ensues London Seaward digging it away to safety, play paused with Baker down having taken a knock but able to continue.

Serina Cobb bringing the ball on for Cambridge

Simmons looking to chase the ball down as it is rolled forwards into the box, running out of room gets a faint touch to play it off Mayne tracking her run to win a corner kick, although I’m not certain Mayne made contact with the ball, she certainly doesn’t think so. Corner nevertheless. London Seaward not happy a few tempers flaring as a couple of decisions go against them a free-kick awarded wide on the right, Wiltshire to deliver players up into the are swung into the six yard box headed away to the left a 2nd cross put into the mix, Baker up well to get hold of the ball.

Goalkeeper Alex Baker with a number of saves to keep it at 0-0

London seaward making their first change, Emma Cianter coming on in place of Davies. Cambridge making a change too with Sammy Edgar coming into the midfield replacing Cobb midway through the half. All action Cambridge pushing for a goal Hubbard attacking on the left sending in a cross long to the far post Gillies providing the run looking to head the ball back in at goal, Harris tracking back with her, the winger can’t get the ball over the defender, Harris cutting it out clearing the ball.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse

Rouse brings the ball forwards for Cambridge pushing the ball on into Stojko-Down who helps the ball on into the area for Wiltshire making the attacking run ahead of her pulls the trigger, Mayne blocking for London Seaward. 20 minutes left the visitors fighting hard at the back, Hubbard attacking left side, swinging a cross into the penalty spot, McKevitt up well to head the ball away for London Seaward. Simmons lively on the right linking up with Gillies, Harris snapping back at the ball to put it out for a throw.

Bella Simmons

GOAL! The break through comes for Cambridge, have been knocking on the door all through the 2nd half, Gillies on the right plays the ball inside to Wodhams who makes a driving run at the London Seaward defence right of the D 20 yards out players converging to close her down the ball blocked is deflected away across the top of the D, Stojko-Down finds herself in space running onto the loose ball and meets it sweetly rifling the ball beyond Baker into the top corner to score 1-0.

Build up to the opening goal, Alysha Stojko-Down moving to attack the loose ball

Took a wonder strike but the London Seaward defence is finally breached Cambridge with the lead, the visitors responding with a change, Cannon coming off to be replaced by Lily Aungier. London Seaward immediately look to force there way forwards, Harris determined on the left, comes off the worst in a 50/50 challenge with both Rouse and Simmons moving in to block the ball as the wingback goes to strike it. Harris getting the decision winning her side a free-kick. South to play the ball into the top of the area Cambridge defend.

Harris brought off for London Seaward as the visitors send on Zainab El-Mouden, the game opening up a little. Hubbard from a throw on the left wins Cambridge a corner as her cross from the by-line is deflected behind. The corner curled in centrally, met by Jackson her header threatening to fly in under the bar, Baker once more with a fabulous save to tip the ball over for another corner.

In from the right the ball is knocked down to the top of the area, falling for Hubbard can’t quite dig the ball out of her feet as London Seaward rush out to close her down, snatches her shot wide of the left post. The game opening up with London Seaward in need of an equaliser, Baker looks to be beaten as the shot from 20 yards out right of the D loops over her, the ball smashing against the crossbar drops down into the six yard box and is scrambled clear.

London Seaward break away through the middle O’Brien striding on with the ball releasing Cianter out wide on the right presses for the corner before sending an angled ball low into the near post, Webb down to the floor to smother the ball. Edgar finding Simmons out on the right the Cambridge attacker sending the ball up the line for Wiltshire powers her way forwards dragging two London Seaward defenders with her before checking back inside leaving them in her wake as she turns into the box and strikes the ball goal-wards, Baker there down to make the save.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Gillies

Jackson having picked up a slight knock for Cambridge coming off at the back in the closing stages of the game, with Gisela Otten coming on. The game stretched players tiring, Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the right side bursting into the area, McKevitt recovers well to get back at her lunging across her angled shot to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick.

The game tense, Cambridge getting a little nervy, determined to hold onto there lead as London Seaward have to take a few risks get forwards themselves the pitch opening up. Edgar lining up a strike from all of 30 yards out, blasted straight at the keeper. Simmons with the ball on the right forwards into Wiltshire outside the box, lays it off for Wodhams pushing up from the middle, Malcolm sliding in to win the ball back for London Seaward top of the D.

A 4th change for Cambridge with defender Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris coming on to replace Hubbard as the hosts look to see out the game. Into stoppage time seconds left, London Seaward winning a free-kick out on the right, send everyone forwards into the box including the keeper as South floats the ball into the mix, all happening as players look to attack the ball, the referee falling over too, the ball scrambled clear by Cambridge the break is on Gillies racing after the ball, Baker stranded in the wrong area, only South has a chance of catching the winger as she races back to her own goal looking to close the angle, Gillies taking a touch, putting her foot through the ball from distance sees the ball run wide of the right post.

Everyone into the Cambridge box for a last gasp free-kick

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 London Seaward FC

Alysha Stojko-Down with the 2nd half screamer, sealing the 3rd league win in a row for Cambridge as they pull themselves securely back into the jostle amongst the sides pushing for top spot in the division. Were made to work for it by a determined London Seaward who battled hard in defence for a long period in the 2nd half, Alex Baker with a number of saves keeping her side firmly in the game took a wonder strike to beat her. London Seaward return home frustrated with another narrow defeat, may well have had the lead in the 1st half, however Cambridge came out determined in the 2nd half, rarely letting their opponents out, players attacking looking for the opening, frustrated were knocking on the door the goal certainly a relief when it came back to back clean sheets too a positive start to 2025 London Seaward remain in the bottom two the gap to Chesham four points, will fight for every one with 7 games to go.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2025. This is certainly a tough one with several contenders and have to give both sides credit for their all round team performances. Firstly for London Seaward, the whole defence put in a shift, goalkeeper Alex Baker pulling off a number of top draw saves to frustrate Cambridge and keeper her side right in contention. Leila Awan with several positive runs in the first half especially looking to create openings. Sharne Harris fighting to the ball, defending out on the left with a number of vital tackles. For Cambridge the 3 at the back with less to do but still very well organised and marshalled the middle of the pitch well with Cambridge pushed up, Abbie Jackson adding a threat from set-pieces inside the box with a couple of good opportunities to score herself. Captain Eva Hubbard with several good runs forwards taking the ball out to the left and looking to pick out the strikers inside the box. Alysha Stojko-Down with a superb winning goal, found pockets of space to exploit throughout in a congested final 3rd. The award though goes to Bella Simmons, right form the off she was intent on winning the ball and drove continuously at London seaward back line linking up well with her fellow attackers, creating numerous opportunities.

Good to be back a good match to start 2025, as intrigued as anyone to see who will emerge out on top on FAWNL South East Division One. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. A cold one but the layers did their job.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

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