Match Report – Royston Town Women v Atletico London Women

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Sunday 8th March

ERWFL Premier Division

Good to get back into it after a month away from the game last weekend, off to Hertfordshire this Sunday to catch some action from the ERWFL Premier Division, with 2nd placed, Royston Town Women hosting 3rd placed Atletico London Women.

 The 12 strong ERWFL Premier Division representing tier 5 football in the East of England, with the title winners earning promotion to the FAWNL (Women’s National League). Stevenage FC Women on a mission to achieve that this season unbeaten winning 12 of their 14 matches to date to sit comfortably at the top of the table. Have enjoyed a good rivalry with Hertfordshire compatriots, Royston Town Women in recent season’s who themselves look strong sitting in 2nd spot for much of the campaign, making a late charge up the table are Atletico London Women up to 3rd as they look to rebuild under a new name after being relegated from the FAWNL last season under their former guise, London Seaward FC. The ERWFL Premier Division always a strong and competitive league featuring many talented players and squads.

Games in hand for Royston over the sides looking to chase them down for runners-up spot, the most likely outcome baring a complete disaster for Stevenage this late in the season. Royston themselves recruiting well growing a squad over the past few season’s to contest at the top end of the Premier Division had a memorable run in this season’s FA Women’s Cup, and have won 6 straight games in the league itself. The gloss taken off the campaign somewhat over the past two weekends as exited both the County Cup and League Cup at the semi-final stage losing 1-0 to Stevenage in the county competition, followed by a poor first half showing in the league Cup which saw another Hertfordshire side, Harpenden Town Women race into a 3-0 lead and hold on to win the game 3-2. Emma Slater always amongst the goals for Royston has 15 to her name so far this season, not the leading scorer though as Laura Mills is just ahead of her with 16. Jordanne Sillitoe also closing in on double figures for the season.

Atletico London Women begin life in the ERWFL Premier Division renamed from the London Seaward FC side relegated from the FAWNL side who themselves were originally, Leyton Orient WFC who reached promotion to the 4th tier in 2018. The men’s club wanting to take Leyton Orient in a different direction, that women’s side became London Seaward FC, a rarity now in that it is an independent women’s football club. A bright light in the game their young manger Dan McKimm left the club to join London Bees a good portion of his squad going with him, London Seaward needing to rebuild their squad somewhat struggling for points last season ended up being relegated.

Thus a new beginnings of sorts under a new name Atletico London Women, placed into the ERWFL, have grown strongly as a club over the course of the season, a slow start losing 4 of their opening 5 league matches have pushed on winning 9 of their last 11 games, coming into today’s game with 6 straight league wins. Their attack headed up by Ammarah Ali and Brooke Haylock who have scored 46 goals between them, with Ali on 20 and Haylock finding the back of the net for 26 goals, up to 3rd in the table will be looking to finish as high as they can and take that into next season.

Royston Town FC’s, Garden Walk Stadium the venue for today’s match, the sloping grass pitch offering situated in a residential area surrounded by housing, has a cosy, community feel to it, the women’s side well supported within the set-up, the large clubhouse with bar open along with a food van and coffee truck available. A covered seated stand opposite the dugouts with various smaller stands dotted about the ground. Cloud cover prominent over the region today a little dull, albeit mild, and still with no rain in the forecast.

 Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Amy Reed, Amy Georgiou, Amy Houghton (C), Chloe Gunn, Hannah Bodily, Georgie Giddings, Kate Edwards, Laura Mills, Emma Slater & Bella Simmons. Subs – Erin Davies, Kiaya Payne, Jodie Donley, Dilly Hazlehurst & Jordanne Sillitoe.

Royston Town Women

 Atletico London Women starting XI – Nina Muller, Juliet Thomas, Jada McGibbon, Joanna Butler-Williams, Nicole Farmer (C), Amber Provan, Keira Stewart, Jordan Feldman, Julia Casinha, Ammarah Ali, & Brooke Haylock. Subs – Sindi Kanto, Lily Aungier, Poppy Hartwell, & Ornela Brahaj.

Atletico London Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Nicole Farmer of Atletico London and Amy Houghton of Royston with today’s match officials

Change of ends at the start with Atletico London choosing to attack up the slope in the 1st half, Royston with the kick-off wearing white coloured shirts and socks with black shorts, Atletico London lined up opposite wearing an all blue kit with orange numbers on the back of their shirts. The ball lifted out to the right side by the hosts. Atletico London quick to get after the ball, Ammarah Ali on the wing getting it into her feet and driving on up the left firing a diagonal ball in towards the top of the area, the ball turned away to the right, Julia Casinha onto it racing forwards on the right for the visitors squaring the ball back into the top of the box, Chloe Gunn stretching out a leg to try and cut the cross out slices off her favourably back towards the keeper, for Millie Carter to scoop up into her gloves.

Both sides looking to make a fast start getting after each other in possession, Kate Edwards bringing the ball on through the middle for Royston pushing for the box, Joanna Butler-Williams stepping out of the back line to close her down with the blocking tackle, the loose ball fed out to Emma Slater looking to pull clear on the right flank, the flag going up against her for offside. Royston press well getting after the ball high, Hannah Bodily out to Slater on the right has full back Amy Reed bombing past her on the overlap rolls the ball into her path on the move Reed strikes the cross the ball screwing up high into the air, dropping down off the crossbar back into play cleared by the Atletico London defence.

Carter’s kick out from the back falls straight to Ali as she drifts in from the left, 30 plus yards out she takes on the immediate strike, doesn’t get a power behind it to trouble Carter back in her six yard box. Royston captain, Amy Houghton plays a flighted long pass on for Slater making a run into the right channel, Jada McGibbon tracking back with her the full back getting the challenge in to prod the ball away from the attacker. Bella Simmons first to the loose ball on the angle 25 yards out latches onto the strike, arrowing in on target but straight at Atletico London goalkeeper, Nina Muller.

The hosts applying good pressure at the start looking to get on the front foot early, Georgie Giddings and Bodily snapping in to win the ball in the middle, Kate Edwards looking to make runs into the channels to support the attack, the ball clipped into Slater out on the right she hooks the ball back into the box, Butler-Williams heading it clear for the visitors. Pushing players up around the 18 yard box, Royston shift the ball in central, Bodily striking it 20 yards out her effort charged down, Atletico London look to mount a rapid counter, Amber Provan on for Casinha right side her forwards pass too strong for striker, Brooke Haylock.

Amber Provan

Both sides getting stuck into each other, competitive free-kicks given away the latest to Royston inside the Atletico London half, lifted on up towards the top of the area the ball defended by captain, Nicole Farmer heading it away to the left for a throw-in.

Atletico London captain, Nicole Farmer

GOAL! Royston capitalising on their bright start regain the ball on half way the pass fed forwards into, Edwards she plays it into Bodily central 30 yards out, controls and puts her foot through the ball catching it sweetly to whip the ball in on target looping up over the keeper, and under the crossbar to open the scoring 1-0.

Hannah Bodily about to strike the ball to fire Royston into the lead

Royston with the early lead inside the opening 8 minutes, getting their midfielders on well to join the attack. The hosts keeping up their pressing game, Laura Mills taking the ball on from Giddings looking to thread it through the defence with Slater curling her run to get in behind, Butler-Williams with a crucial interception for Atletico London. Slater clipped as she looks to get on with the ball out wide a free-kick to Royston 30 yards out, a dangerous ball clipped into the far post players running in, the Atletico London defence hooking it clear.

Atletico London win the ball in midfield, Keira Stewart into Provan she feeds the ball out to Ali on the left flank, has, Haylock ahead of her the ball played into her, looks to get inside, Reed, the full back getting back at her with the tackle to deny the cross, Royston get the ball moving quickly up the pitch lifted into the left channel for Mills bursting into space, Muller comes racing out of her box in an attempt to get the ball, Mills just getting a toe to it to knock it on beyond her into the area the ball running on looking to go wide of the far post as Mills attempts to get to it, a recovering defender getting to it first to clear for Atletico London.

Laura Mills and Joanna Butler-Williams battling for the ball

Royston remain lively Slater causing problems out on the right a corner won. Annie Georgiou curling the ball long across the six yard box to the far post the ball headed down towards goal blocked on the line by Atletico London’s, Juliet Thomas. Atletico London competitive in the middle, Provan strong shielding the ball linking up with Jordan Feldman the ball played on for Haylock in attack, cut out by Houghton.

Royston captain, Amy Houghton

 GOAL! Royston get the ball on quickly, Slater providing the outlet on the left racing onto the ball, knocking it on into the area right of goal exposing the Atletico London defence, McGibbon trying to get back on her as the angle closes down, but Slater puts her laces through the ball before the blocking tackle comes in the shot rising with power up over the keeper into the far side of the goal to double the hosts lead 2-0.

Emma Slater firing Royston into a 2 goal lead.

Royston racing into a 2 goal lead inside the opening 12 minutes, showed attacking intent from the off and have taken full advantage. Bodily out to Reed on the right plays the ball on for Slater, McGibbon tracking her run getting in the tackle to turn the ball behind for a corner kick. The delivery curled into the six yard box, Simmons jumps well but can’t quite get her head on it central, drops into the mix at the far post a snap shot blasted in, Atletico London with the bodies back inside the six yard box to block it.

Atletico London get on the counter attack, the ball on for Provan carries it left before playing it on for Ali who in turn looks for Haylock in attack, Houghton steeping in to cut the pass out for the hosts. Ali seeing the ball into her feet off Provan, has McGibbon looking to go past her on the overlap the ball played on, the full backs cross snubbed out by Houghton.

Muller out to get hold of the ball quickly inside her box as Slater charges down Butler-Williams in possession the ball deflected into the box. Simmons controlling the ball for Royston central on for Edwards making a run left of the D, stabbed on her effort blocked by Farmer the ball rebounding out to the right, Slater looking to take it on, dispossessed complaining her shirt was tugged, doesn’t get the decision.

Haylock pulling away into the left wing taking the ball on from Ali sends a low cross in towards the near post, Carter going to ground to block it, turns it behind for the visitors first corner of the contest. Taken short on the left the cross angled in towards the top of the area dealt with by Mills for Royston, falls to Stewart 30 yards out, takes on the shot her looping strike safely into the keepers mid-riff caught.

Stewart linking up with Casinha as the winger plays the ball inside to her from the right driving on with the ball, Bodily closes her down for Royston the hosts counter the ball launched into the right channel Slater digging out the early cross with the Atletico London defence tracking back the ball looping into the D, over Farmer, falls to Simmons beyond her strike blocked by Thomas, deflected behind for a corner kick. Taken short from the right the cross lifted into the box cleared out of the area, Mills running onto the ball 25 yards out right of the goal to strike it on the volley blasts the ball wide.

Emma Slater

 GOAL! Haylock has had to be patient operating up top on her own looking for the right back she gets it as the ball is fizzed on to her from the right running in behind the Royston defence central, draws Carter out of her goal to try and close her down, takes the ball past her out to the left and cuts it back in across goal to score, 2-1.

Brooke Haylock gets clear to pull a goal back for Atletico London

A goal back for the visiting side, 20 minutes into the first half, it is a competitive contest between two strong sides, Royston getting players on well to support their attack, Atletico London more patient not committing as many forwards the ball hotly fought over moved around quickly. Slater a ready outlet on the left, Edwards breaking from midfield to join the attack moving into the right channel closed down by Butler-Williams.

Royston midfielder, Kate Edwards

Gunn picking up a yellow card for the hosts as she brings down Haylock as the attacker looks to wriggle clear with the ball in midfield. From inside the Royston half, left of the circle Ali sends a long ball in towards the far post, Carter calling for it, a touch from an Atletico London player takes it behind off the keeper for a corner kick. Swung in over everyone at a congested near post, retrieved beyond the far post the ball played back out of the area towards McGibbon in a central position, pulls her shot wide of the left post from 25 yards out.

Georgiou attacking out on the left for the hosts angling a ball into the area with Slater racing on, Butler-Williams throwing out a leg to try and intercept the ball skips up beyond her into the six yard box, Muller out quickly to grab hold of the ball. Edwards sending the ball on for Slater on the right, lifts the ball into the area, Mills central top of the six yard box chests it down into the ground, Butler-Williams alert again stabbing a foot out to deflect the ball away from her, Muller down quickly to smother the loose ball inside her six yard box even as Mills attempts to slide in on it.

Into the final 15 minutes of the first half continues to be played at a fast pace, both teams snapping after the ball in the middle, Provan strong in possession carrying it out to the left for Ali who sends it up the line for Haycock, her cross claimed by Carter. Georgiou linking up with Mills on the left wing as Royston build an attack exchanging passes Mills take the ball on down the line scooping a cross up into the near post, Simmons gets up well to attack it but can’t get enough on her header to direct the ball on towards goal, behind for a goal-kick.

Bodily for Royston sending the ball on for Slater coming inside from the right, looks to play a one two with Edwards making a central run, get into the box, behind Butler-Williams the central defender, reading it sticking out a boot to get her toe on the ball to halt the attack. Slater steals in on McGibbon to take the ball off her in behind on the right before lifting a high cross into the six yard box, Miller under it see’s it all the way. Royston continue to get players on from midfield well, Edwards in particular pulling wide on the left taking the ball off Georgiou, players surging into the box, Mills hanging back free on the penalty spot Edwards crosses sending the ball in along the top of the six yard box, Butler-Williams onto it winning it ahead of Slater.

Atletico London mount an attack through the middle, Feldman on for Provan coming left up to Ali, has Haylock in support rolling the ball into her feet she takes on the strike from the angle 25 yards out the ball curling straight into the keepers gloves.

 GOAL! Closing in on the last five minutes of the first half Royston find Slater’s feet out right, as Reed surges past her on the overlap calling for the ball gets it and on the run goes to hit the early cross, swerving in high on goal turns into a dangerous ball as back peddling Muller throws her arms up to try and turn it wide but doesn’t get enough on the ball as it evades her gasp and goes beyond into the back of the net 3-1.

Amy Reed’s looping cross fumbled by the keeper to see Royston go into a 3-1 lead.

Royston with their tails up late in the first half going into a 3-1 lead, press the ball high Slater nipping in to win it off the defence putting it on into the right wing as Edwards races into space, puts her foot through the ball her cross angling in high over the crossbar. Royston pressing on Slater with a shot from range 25 yards out to the left of goal, Muller down sharply to save push the ball wide of her far post for a corner kick.

Georgiou swinging in an inviting ball from the right, Simmons up well nodding it down into the six yard box stabbed away Giddings on the penalty spot latching onto the shot blasts the ball into the mix, blocked taking a wicked deflection out behind for a corner on the left. The delivery in across the crowded six yard box falls to Slater at the far post but the referee has spotted a foul and blows up for the free-kick to Atletico London. Ali playing the ball on for McGibbon making a run ahead of her on the left her cross, cut out by Houghton behind for the corner kick the last action of the first half as the delivery into the area is claimed by Carter.

Half-time Royston Town Women 3-1 Atletico London Women

 Royston heading into the changing rooms at half-time leading 3-1. Looked determined to make a fast start to the game get on the front foot early and by doing so created numerous chances, taking an early lead which quickly became 2. Got players forwards well from midfield to support the attack. A competitive tussle as you’d expect from the sides 2nd and 3rd in the league. Atletico London letting Royston come on soaking up alot, winning fair share of balls at the back have looked to keep it tight in the middle with Haylock up top on her own not getting the close support her opportunities in front of goal limited but broke clear well to pull it back to 2-1. Royston adding a 3rd late in the half, can’t help feel the visitors have been a little reserved in attack, maybe saving their energy for the 2nd half when they will be attacking down the slope, 3-1 down though they have work to do to get back into it and Royston will feel confident they can add to their tally.

 No changes for Royston at the break, Poppy Hartwell on for the visitors replacing Stewart as Atletico London get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope, the ball rolled back to defence hit long up towards the Royston defence with players pushing forwards, cleared by Gunn, the ball given away knocked back on to the left side of the area, Haycock having strayed offside, leaves it as Ali looks to take it on pushed wide the ball forced out for a throw.

Atletico London’s Ammarah Ali looking to get forwards

GOAL! Atletico London out of the blocks quickly at the start of the 2nd half getting players up the pitch the ball thrown in from the left fired into the area behind Haycock central, runs on to Casinha inside the box to the top right, controls the ball into her feet and turns to burst down to the by-line before flashing a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Haylock racing in at the far post to get on the end of it send the ball over the line 3-2.

Brooke Haylock turning the ball it at close range to score her 2nd of the game

 Atletico London right back into the match within two minutes of the restart, Royston look for an immediate response, Simmons driving up the left with the ball plays it inside to Edwards who helps it on to Bodily central 25 yards out she helps it on out to the right with Slater surging forwards, Ali tracking back to help the defence, their to prevent the cross. The game pretty much continuing at the same tempo as the first half, a competitive battle in the middle, Giddings playing the ball up to Slater on the right, she cross cleared by Butler-Williams out for a throw-in.

Bella Simmons

 From there Mills forces a corner on the right. Lifted in high to the near post, Simmons leaping up to meet it with her head knocks it wide of the near post. Bodily controlling the ball sends it up the right flank for Slater her early cross turned behind for a corner kick. Georgiou putting another ball into the near post, turned behind for a 2nd corner, this delivery headed clear by Butler-Williams.

 Atletico London counter the ball fired on for Ali driving on up the left has Haylock up ahead of her rolls the ball on the attacker striking to cross on the run, turned behind off the defence for a corner kick. Royston closing down the ball as Atletico London attempt to play a short corner routine, Gunn finding Reed as she presses on into space on the right linking up with Slater, McGibbon gets the tackle in. 

Chloe Gunn

   Royston make their first change of the game with Edwards coming off, replaced by Jordanne Sillitoe, the attacker immediately fouled giving Royston a free-kick in the middle left of the circle, Houghton to play the set-piece in long to the far post, Muller starts to come for it as players race in to attack the ball, the flag up however stopping the advance. Thomas on the ball left side for Atletico London has Haylock making a run into the wing brings the ball into her feet turning inside to lift a teasing cross in towards the far post, Royston can see it out for a goal-kick.

 

 Atletico London getting players on more in the 2nd period to try and link up with Haycock, McGibbon up with Ali on the left inside 25 yards out pulls the trigger, a tame effort through to the keeper. Battles all over the pitch, Georgiou and Casinha fighting for the ball the former fouled a free-kick won in a similar position to the earlier one again fired up towards the top of the area, defended by Butler-Williams. 

Joanna Butler-Williams

Haylock looking to run onto the ball as it is played on towards the box, right of the D, her run checked by Gunn the visitors appealing for the foul but don’t get the decision. A little tense out there Atletico London winning the ball in the middle Hartwell on for Provan, attempts to feed it on for Haylock up top, Houghton intercepting. Georgiou tackling Casinha comes on with the ball left played forwards into Sillitoe who is fouled by Thomas. A pause in play as Farmer needs treatment after taking a blow to the face as Simmons latches onto the ball outside the area.

Julia Casinha

 A chance for both sides to have a breather has been non stop action with both keen to get on with it, the game midway through the 2nd period, still on a knife edge. The game resumes with Farmer off the pitch waiting to be called back on, Royston send the ball on for Slater up the right wing, knocks it inside to try and get onto it inside the box, appears to be shoved over and is furious when the referee doesn’t award the penalty. 

Jordan Feldman

 Farmer back on, as Royston make another change sending on Erin Davies in place of Bodily in midfield. Haylock bundled over as she looks to turn centrally, as Gunn and Georgiou both move in to close her down, Gunn on thin ice already gets a final warning from the referee. The free-kick for Atletico London right of the centre circle, lifted up towards the top of the area, Houghton getting her head on it for the hosts. The game end to end at times as both sides look to find an opening.

Provan covering the ground in midfield to get after the ball, on for Ali left, closed down by Reed. Royston come left with Giddings taking the ball on, fires in a dangerous cross into the six yard box players racing in, the flag going up, a few nerves out there free-kicks given away, Thomas going into the book for a foul on Giddings. Giddings taking the ball on passing into Simmons on the left, tacked by Farmer. Butler-Williams getting her head on the ball to clear inside the D as Simmons attempts to hook the ball over her for Slater running in beyond her.

Georgie Giddings

  Farmer coming off for Atletico London following her earlier knock, replaced by Ornela Brahaj. Royston making a change at the back too bringing on Jodie Donley for Gunn on a yellow card. The game all set for a nervy finish. Davies up to Simmons tries to pick out Sillitoe central, Hartwell in to challenge for Atletico London. The game into the final 5 minutes.

Poppy Hartwell

 GOAL! The visitors with the ball on the left Ali releasing McGibbon into space on the left allowed to travel Haycock making a run to get into the six yard box the cross cut back in towards her with pace, doesn’t quite get hold of it as the defender tracking back with her falling gets a little of the ball, but Haylock gets a 2nd bite at the ball and lashes it past the keeper before she can react to equalise for Atletico London and complete her hat-trick 3-3.

A hat-trick for Atletico London’s Brooke Haylock

The visitors coming back from 3-1 down at the break to level the scores late in the game, a blow for Royston having worked so hard, the clock ticking down will both settle for the point or try and find what would surely be the winning goal. Royston press with the ball Mills taking it on lifting a diagonal ball to the right looking for Slater, Butler-Williams defending for Atletico London. 

 Haylock pulling away to the right with the ball at her feet shooting on the angle from outside the area her attempt into the side netting. Dilly Haslehurst coming on for Royston replacing Simmons, Lily Aungier on too for Atletico London in place of Provan. 3 minutes left in the contest could yet go either way, the game stretched now with tired legs all over the pitch, Mills taking the ball on up the left firing a cross into the area, Sillitoe stabbing the ball goal wards straight at the keeper.

 Royston with a throw up on the left with seconds left to play Slater bringing the ball infield playing it back to Mills positioned top of the D, takes on the shot a powerful low drive, Muller with a superb save diving down to her right to get behind the ball, and recovers quickly too make the blocking save as Slater from the left races in to blast the loose ball. The last action of the game as Muller’s double save ensures a point for her side.

Atletico London goalkeeper, Nina Muller with a superb double save in the closing seconds

Full time Royston Town Women 3-3 Atletico London Women

  A great game for the neutral, promised to be an entertaining contest between the sides 2nd and 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division. Royston looking for a positive first half after last weekends game, started well on the front foot early taking an early lead and quickly doubling the advantage. getting players on well from the midfield to join the attack. Competitive in the middle Atletico London playing striker Haycock in to round the keeper to pull a goal back before Amy Reed’s cross was mis-handled to pull Royston 3-1 up at the break. Atletico London came out flying at the start of the 2nd half pulling it back to 3-2 straight away. The game remained lively throughout both side fighting for possession creating chances both seeing decisions waved away, Jada McGibbon put away on the left late in the game teeing up Haycock to score her hat-trick and equalise for the visitors. A superb double save from Miller in the dying moments ensuring the points were shared.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Picking out today’s Women’s Football East – player of the Match is by no means an easy decision, several contenders on both sides. Both teams put in a shift in a competitive tussle that never let up in it’s intensity. The midfield battle shaping the game to a degree, for Royston, Hannah Bodily and Georgie Giddings get stuck in to win the ball and cover the ground helping both the defence and joining the attack. Kate Edwards too made some great forward runs getting into some great positions. Bella Simmons showed good movement to find space and keep the game flowing. Emma Slater a threat on the right of attack and a ready outlet for the ball good finishers from both her and Bodily. For Atletico London, Joanna Butler-Williams was strong at the back reading the game, and dealing with most balls launched into the box. In midfielder Amber Provan was strong on the ball, shielded it well and covered the ground getting the ball into the wide players. The award goes to the hat-trick scorer Brooke Haylock had to stay patient up top not getting the support around her in the first half but making some great runs through the middle and out into the channels, pulling off the defence strong on the ball closing in on 30 goals for the season.

 Promised to be a cracker on paper and certainly delivered as 2nd met 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division, highly entertaining with a high tempo the ball rarely still as both sides worked hard to close it down. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the teams today, an enjoyable trip to Hertfordshire.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Real Bedford Women Reserves

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Sunday 1st March

ERWFL League Plate semi-final

Back at it at last, wasn’t planning in taking a month off, but that’s how it went, fell ill with some mystery bug that has really laid me low left me, took a while to get over but am right again now and ready to go again. Watched a match last weekend without the camera and notepad so keen to get back at it now march is here and we move into the business end of the season with league titles and cup final spots to challenge for. Off to a semi-final match this afternoon as Wroxham Women take on Real Bedford Women reserves looking to reach the ERWFL League Plate final.

The sides losing in the early rounds of the ERWFL League Cup going on to compete for the League Plate. A blow for Wroxham getting knocked out of the League Cup this season having reached the League Cup final in both 2022 & 2024. Have nevertheless responded well to push on in the League Cup getting to the semi-finals and potentially one game away from another final and a double final appearance having reached the final of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup. Real Bedford Women Reserves too have the potential to make it a cup final double having reached the final of the Bedfordshire Women’s Senior Cup for the first time where they will take on the Real Bedford Women’s 1st team.

Captain, Tigi Robson’s long range strike fumbled by the keeper to see Wroxham beat UEA FC Women by a single goal in the 2nd half to book their spot in Norfolk Women’s Cup Final last weekend aiming to make it a cup final double appearance this Sunday. The ERWFL Premier Division side currently 7th in the table but with games in hand on the sides above them have a busy run in till the end of the season. With that in mind manager Joe Simpson has bolstered the squad by bringing in a few new faces, defender. Elise Wade joins from Needham Market. Rebecca Stephenson comes to Wroxham having had spells at both Cambridge City Women and Needham Market and most recently has gained valuable experience playing in the FAWNL with Cambridge United Women. Also joining on a dual registration from Norwich City Women is attacking midfielder Lauren Hailes.

  A hat-trick from Hannah Fuller, plus goals from Anais Winney, Rebecca Stephenson and Kathryn Stanley seeing Wroxham beat, ERWFL Division One North side, Stevenage FC Women Development in the quarter finals of the League Plate to book their spot in the last 4. Fuller, Wroxham’s top scorer once again this season leading the way with 13 goals, while Maddie Green and Kathryn Stanley joining the club this season have 8 and 7 goals respectfully.

  In any other season, Real Bedford Women Reserves would be challenging for the league title such has been their form, however with Histon Ladies continuing their 100% record at the top of the table, they are in a tight battle trying to clinch runners-up spot in the table currently 3rd neck and neck with Stevenage FC Women Development. Looking strong with one of the youngest squads in the league this just their 2nd season playing at this level. Real Bedford Women featuring 3 sides, the 1st team investing strongly in their squad reaching the 3rd tier of women’s football, The Reserves playing regional football while the Development squad has joined the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League this season. A 3 squads going strong, Real Bedford Women Reserves unbeaten in 9 matches.

  Beating Biggleswade United Women 2-0 at home in their League Plate quarter final, Amelia Proctor and Ellie McGirl with the goals. Lauren Hawkins leading the goal scoring charts, netting 16 goals in her 18 appearances. Ellie McGirl has 8 goals to her name with Georgie Oliver on 6 so far this season. 

 Wroxham FC’s Ginger Pickle Arena (Trafford Park) unavailable due to the rain earlier in the week, Wroxham Women making the call early to move the semi-final tie to an all-weather pitch at Aylsham’s Sports Hub. Played their quarter final here too and with Sunday’s running out to get their fixtures in could ill afford another postponement, situated on the outskirts of Aylsham one a new housing development the sports facility offering an all weather pitch, limited viewing for spectators on one side, the 1st day of March hopefully bringing better weather a little overcast with a keen wind, rain wasn’t forecast but still it came, so too would the sun later on.

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Tigi Robson (C), Ella Gambell, Poppy Loveland, Elise Wade, Lily Alexander, Anais Winney, Rebecca Stephenson, Holly Farrow, Maddie Green & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Yasmine Walford, Lauren Bullard, Katie Green, Katie Knights & Kathryn Stanley.

Wroxham Women

 Real Bedford Women starting XI – Izabella Bruci, Carol Cripps, Connie Medri, Zara Labastide, Marli Frederick, Freya Stichbury (C), Ellie McGirl, Georgie Oliver, Madison Flowers Amelia Proctor & Lauren Hawkins. Subs – Phoebe Matthews & Destiny Pap.

Real Bedford Women Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Tigi Robson and Freya Stichbury with today’s referee, Davis Lewiss and his two assistants

 Wroxham despite having a few out with injury including defender, Jordan Arnoup and winger Hayley Kindred still naming a strong substitutes bench. Elise Wade starting in defence making her debut. Real Bedford Women Reserves with just the two substitutes to call upon having lost a player due to illness before the game. Wroxham to take the kick-off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Bedford lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball fed out to the right, Ella Gambell playing in on up the line for Maddie Green to whip a cross into the box, defended by Bedford, comes back to Gambell right side who strikes a diagonal ball back into the area, Bedford seeing it safely behind for a corner kick.

  The corner curled in towards the near post, Carol Cripps comes off the post to intercept and clear for Bedford the ball away for a throw out on the left. Wroxham looking to make a positive start the throw dropped into the feet of striker, Hannah Fuller, 20 yards out left of the D, turns to hit the ball her effort blocked by Marci Frederick, rebounds back off Fuller and runs behind for a goal-kick. 

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller 

The Premier Division side moving in to close the ball do preventing Bedford getting out of their half early doors, the ball being moved quickly, Lily Alexander on for Anais Winney in the middle out to Holly Farrow charging on down the left her cross cut out by Cripps. Wroxham’s captain Tigi Robson closing down the ball at the back sending it into Alexander central she plays it out too Ella Gambell bursting forwards on the right, the full back allowed to travel turns inside 20 yards out slicing her shot the ball flashing wide of the near post. 

Wroxham full back, Ella Gambell

  Bedford getting onto the ball centrally sending a good diagonal ball into the right wing for Madison Flowers to attack, Farrow tracking back helping out the defence out for a throw. Both sides showing plenty of energy flying into their tackles, Bedford captain, Freya Stichbury with a strong tackle on Gambell as the ball goes out for a throw. Georgie Oliver for Bedford seeing the ball into her feet and driving on through the middle, closed down is upended as the Wroxham defence clears the ball, the visitors appeals for a foul waved away.

Real Bedford’s, Georgie Oliver

  Robson on the left sends the ball on down the line for Farrow to attack, Cripps moving in to close her down force her down the line forces the ball out for a throw, taken quickly Wroxham getting players into the box is helped on in towards the near post for Winney, the midfielder looking to bring it down and hit on the turn, Bedford’s. Zara Labastide in close to her getting a toe on the ball to take it away from her. 

  A miscued clearance at the back from Wroxham see’s the ball swerve up into the air and Bedford’s Flowers race onto it taking it forwards with pace, the home defence recovering quickly to squeeze her off the ball allowing goalkeeper, Bryony Williams to clear. Wroxham regain the ball in the middle, Winney into Fuller moving right looks to combines with Green up the line wanting the return ball played into her as she drives for the area, Labastide does well at the back for Bedford intercepting the pass. Oliver taking the ball right for Bedford looking to pick out Flowers ahead of her, Alexander cutting the ball out for Wroxham.

  Williams with a loose ball out of her box, sees Bedford’s Lauren Hawkins run onto the ball looking to take it left into the area, Gambell, closing her down eases her off the ball. The game being played at a fast pace, both sides keen to close the ball down keep it moving, Wroxham build on the left Robson with a diagonal ball into the box for Fuller left of goal knocks it out to Farrow wide on the wing she returns it inside to Fuller who attempts to tee up Green positioned central top of the area, Proctor getting back on her in the nick of time to take the ball off her feet as she is about to line up a strike.

Maddie Green

 

  Wade bringing the ball out of defence for Wroxham with space to run into as Bedford drop off sends it on up the right for Green, Connie Medri stretching out a leg getting hold of the ball for the visitors. Bedford with pace in their attack quick to break launching a counter attack on the right, McGirl on for Flowers, the cross taken early flung into the box, Williams throwing herself forwards getting a fist on the ball enough to take it away from Hawkins running in unmarked central.

Wroxham’s Elise Wade with Real Bedford’s, Lauren Hawkins

  Gambell able to come on with the ball on the right offer support to Green on the right, the attacker winning Wroxham a corner kick. The delivery curled into the middle off the defence, goalkeeper, Bruci having Fuller for company shaking her off well to get out and claim the ball.

  Some players vocal in not getting decisions, with the game continuing at a fast pace, Fuller getting a telling off from the referee. The hosts with a throw on the right inside the Bedford half, Loveland with a long throw in her arsenal, launched into the top of the area, Frederick heading it clear for Bedford. The wind bringing in the rain despite the forecast blowing at my back so at least I can keep the camera and notepad reasonably dry. Stephenson linking up with Winey through the middle turning to send the ball into Fuller up top, tries to turn on the ball closely marshalled by Labastide.

  Alexander bringing he ball on for Wroxham moving left sending it out to Farrow on the wing plays it inside to Fuller, 20 yards out left of the D, is fouled as she goes to strike the ball, the hosts awarded the free-kick. Gambell over the set-piece goes for goal her low shot driven in wide of the left upright. 

  Oliver sending the ball into Flowers on the right for Bedford cuts it back inside for Stichbury running in across the top of the D, Wade moving out to close her down. Wroxham looking to make a rapid counter attack, Stephenson helping the ball on through the middle her target Green, a vital interception from Labastide for Bedford. The rain falling heavier now. Gambell charging on with the ball into space right side feeding it on for Green up the line Labastide going with her in ahead of her edge of the box to divert the ball back to her keeper, Bruci clearance however played straight back to Green, her 1st touch heavy, Labastide lunges it with a well-timed tackle to get her foot on the ball send it behind for the corner kick.

Rebecca Stephenson with real Bedford captain, Freya Stichbury

  Swung into the area from the right the keeper punching the ball up and away for a throw out on the left, Wroxham take it quickly looking to keep the pressure on, players up and around the box, Gambell upended inside the D, frustrated as no foul is awarded. Cripps clearing the ball away to the left. Remains a busy game, Bedford the busier in defence but Wroxham for all their possession not carving out any clear cut chances. The rain slowing even if the game isn’t, Gambell’s turn to get a warning from the referee to halt the back chat as she is involved in a good completive tussle with Hawkins.

  Loveland at the back playing the ball on for Robson travelling on the left plays it on for Fuller out on the left wing wide of the area, Frederick at her back throwing out a leg to take the ball away from her. Winney snatching hold of the ball for Wroxham 20 yards out left of the D, plays it on in central to Green inside the D. her low shot safely claimed by Bruci. 

Wroxham midfielder, Anais Winney

 McGirl tacking back to help defend for Bedford on Gambell as the full back looks to get on join the Wroxham attack. Winney with Stephenson in the middle the ball rolled back to Alexander to lay forwards into the left wing for Farrow, Cripps in quickly to prevent the cross. Bedford soaking up a fair bit of pressure at the back, always ready to launch a counter, up on the right forcing Williams to run out to the corner of her area to defend picks up a knock in the process. 

  Cripps coming into the middle to win the ball back for Bedford playing the ball on for Oliver bursts forwards playing it on for 9 up top, turns, her shirt pulled by Loveland the visitors awarded the free-kick 25 yards out. Proctor over it to the left of the D, pass the wall curled in low on goal, Williams getting down sharply to save block the ball turn it away behind to the right for a corner kick. Bedford yet to make the most of their corners.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

  Labastide getting in ahead of Fuller to cut the ball out outside her box as Stephenson plays it on through the middle. Wroxham able to get players on to support the attack as Bedford drop back, not much room to get in behind the ball from the left comes inside to Stephenson, 30 yards out lines up the strike angled in low and fast at the near post, Bruci had started to move the opposite way but adjusts her body fantastically twisting enough to throw a glove out to her right to block the ball and turn it behind for a corner kick. Wroxham dropping another corner into the six yard box, Gambell rising highest to nod the ball down towards goal, somehow, Bruci gets her hands on the ball to prevent it dropping over the line.

Real Bedford goalkeeper, Izabella Bruci

  Bedford quickly launch a counter from the corner as Bruci releases the ball forwards, Wroxham short at the back the ball into Oliver right side looks to take it on, Wade moving in quickly to close her down sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. Into the closing moments of the 1st half Wroxham with one last attack pushing bodies on, Robson with Farrow left side inside to Stephenson, is brought down, no foul awarded as she throws her arms up in appeal 25 yards out, however a split second later, Alexander is similarly upended and gets the decision. Stephenson over the free-kick takes on the shot, strikes the ball over the bar.

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-0 Real Bedford Women Reserves

  The sides heading back to the changing rooms goalless at the break, Bedford working hard in defence keeping it tight dropping deep at the back, conceding possession whilst limiting Wroxham’s chances inside the box, Wroxham positive throughout looking for the break through the final ball not quite there as both side play at a fast pace looking to close the ball down and run players off the ball. Chances limited although both keepers have been called into action will be interested to see if Bedford can keep it up 2nd half, extra-time and penalties if required.

  The rain gone at the start of the 2nd half albeit the dark clouds remain, Wroxham making a change at the start of the 2nd half, Kathryn Stanley on on the left replacing Farrow, with Stephenson moving right as Green takes up an attacking position on the left as Bedford get the 2nd 45 underway. The ball out of play for a throw on the left, Loveland sending it long for Green to attack, Cripps moving in to close her down the ball out for another throw. A quieter start to the 2nd half as both sides work to close the other down. Hawkins moves in quickly to press, Wade at the back nearly succeeds in dispossessing the defender, stealing in behind however Wade recovers well to get back at her challenging to win the ball back.

  Stichbury bringing the ball on for Bedford feeding it on for Oliver ahead of her central 25 yards out takes on the strike her effort taking a hefty nick off a blocking defender seeing the string taken out of it as it runs on safely through to the keeper. Wroxham’s Green and Stephenson look to link up on the left Green inside to Stephenson who plays it on down the wing for Green to attack, Labastide going with her looking to shield the ball out of play for the goal-kick gets a shove in the back for her efforts. 

 Stanley onto the ball central inside the Bedford half driving on with the ball at her feet pushes it on for Fuller up top Cripps sticking a leg out marking her to get the ball into Frederick to launch clear. Bedford continue to be hard to break down even as the game begins to open up more, Wroxham not finding the clinical final ball. Proctor coming together with Stephenson bringing her down hard as she looked to turn in the ball in the middle, picks up the 1st yellow card of the game. 

 Alexander finds Stephenson as she drifts in from the right, is tackled by Bedford’s Stichbury before she can pick out Green as she breaks away on the left. Lively Cripps getting the ball back for Bedford out on the left looking to send it on for Flowers bursting on up the wing, Robson cutting the ball out for the visitors. Wroxham preparing a double change just past the hour mark with Katie Knights and Katie Green coming on to replace Winney in midfield and Wade in defence. 

Real Bedford’s Carol Cripps

 Knights straight into the action giving away a free-kick against, Oliver. The flag going up for offside however as Bedford sweep the ball into the top of the area. Hawkins combining with Flowers for Bedford on the right side, Loveland in between doing well in defence for the hosts. The sun’s out, a very welcome appearance has been a dull old start to the year. Bedford making a change, Proctor coming off to be replaced by Phoebe Matthews. The visitors win the ball back centrally, McGirl out to Flowers right drives on her cross charged down by Loveland out for a throw.

Wroxham’s Katie Knights

  The clock ticking down, moving into the final 20 minutes both sides looking a little tentative, Wroxham frustrated by Bedford can’t find that final pass, Katie Green defending a bouncing cross inside the box the ball cleared on up through the middle, Labastide in ahead of Fuller to see the ball back to her keeper. Wroxham winning a free-kick top of the circle the ball sent into the area dipping in front of the keeper, turned out back to the top of the area Knights appearing to be pulled down inside the D, the advantage played as the loose ball comes to Maddie Green left of the D her low shot drilled in across the keeper, Bruci down to save it.

  Stanley picks up a yellow card for Wroxham after tripping Cripps. Bedford with a free-kick half-way to the left the ball sent long up into the area, brought down well by Hawkins but before she a put her foot through the ball, Katie Green nips in to clear the ball sending it out for a throw on the left. Loveland doing well in defence for Wroxham as Hawkins looks to shake her off break on in behind into the box. 

 Into the final 15 minutes of the game Wroxham build an attack, Gambell taking the ball on up the right wing as players push on through the middle, a cross flashed into the D, Frederick with the challenge on Fuller as Alexander is upended, a strike coming in from the left of the D narrowly wide of the left post, play however brought back for the foul on Alexander inside the D.

 GOAL! Alexander picking herself up to take the free-kick central inside the D, strikes it low with pace to the diving keepers left can’t reach it as the ball cannons off the base of the post and back out across the six yard box to the right off goal, Stephenson first to react breaking forwards on the follow-up latching onto the ball to smash it back in across goal and into the back of the net to fire Wroxham into the lead 1-0.

Lily Alexander’s strike about to strike the base of the post and cannon back across goal for Rebecca Stephenson to score

Wroxham mob Stephenson as she fires them into the lead

Wroxham with the break through with 15 minutes left on the clock, keen to press for another goal as the game resumes pushing players on nearly catching Bruci on the ball at the back as she mis controls a back pass dragging it out across her six yard box, scrambling it away before Fuller can take advantage. Wroxham’s substitutes giving them the extra edge Winney coming back on as Fuller is rested. Labastide defending inside her area well as Stanley looks to run inside from the left.

Real Bedford defender, Zara Labastide

  Stanley fouled out on the left giving Wroxham another set-piece, 25 yards out the shot drilled in takes a deflection of the wall and another defender before being stopped by Cripps inside the six yard box and cleared. Wroxham with their tails up finding an extra burst of energy after scoring Knights playing the ball up to Maddie Green in attack, Labastide looking to go with her as both wrestle for the ball top of the area, Green squirming inside Labastide to throw a leg up to prod the ball on towards goal, Bruci too close can save as the ball comes straight at her.

  Oliver back to defend on Knights as she looks to take on the shot 20 yards out as Stanley picks her out travelling with the ball on the left. Wroxham looking in control now, Bedford tiring, Loveland with a long throw on the left into Stanley taking it inside 20 yards out left corner of the Bedford box sends it on for Knights central her strike screwed wide of the far post. Into stoppage time Labastide defending on Maddie Green left side as she looks to get onto the end of a pass from Knights. 

Wroxham defender, Poppy Loveland

 Gambell pressing on with the ball right side crossed low into Stephenson inside the area right of goal the keeper rushing out to try and close her down, strikes the ball past her but also wide beyond the far post. The clock ticking down Wroxham looking to keep the ball in the corner take no risks. Bedford frustrated can’t find a way out late on the Wroxham back line intercepting the ball as the hosts see out the game to win 1-0 to make it to two cup finals this season.

Full time Wroxham Women 1-0 Real Bedford Women Reserves

  Wroxham breaking the stalemate in the 75th minute to score and book their place in this season’s ERWFL League Plate final. Real Bedford proving a tough side to break down working hard in defence, making it tough for Wroxham in the final 3rd. The game payed at a furious pace as both sides looked to get after the ball, rarely still. Wroxham’s substitute’s giving them an advantage 2nd half, bringing on fresh legs and with it crucial experience found the extra edge to break the dead lock. A fine effort from Rea Bedford just ran out of steam late in the game struggled to create chances of their own the goal knocking the stuffing out of them can nevertheless be proud of their effort.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, a tough one as is more often the case with several contenders. For Real Bedford, Zara Labastide with the pick of the defenders winning a number of crucial tackles and marshalling her side throughout. Carol Cripps too with a number of vital tackles get stuck in to win the ball back. Madison Flowers looked a threat whenever she got the ball into her feet and drove forwards. For Wroxham, Ella Gambell was competitive and got stuck in to win the ball bringing in forwards well looking to link up with the attack. Maddie green whether operating on the left or right made herself available for the pass throughout and created some good opportunities. Poppy Loveland with some good tackling hard to shake off the ball. Anais Winney with some good positional play in midfield got on well to support the attack adding an extra dimension going forwards, linking up well with Rebecca Stephenson who got into some good positions and scored the all important winning goal. The award though goes to Lily Alexander covered the ground, working well with the defence and using it well whenever she came forwards, bringing others into the game kept Wroxham on the front foot.

Good to be back at it after a month off, most unusual for me but sometimes that’s how it goes just needed the rest to recover, an exciting end to the season to be sure. An entertaining semi-final, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance today as always much appreciated. 

 by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Ely City Women v Newmarket Town Women Development

Sunday 25th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

More cup action this January and an early one with a trip into Cambridgeshire to watch one of the semi-finals of this season’s Alan Boswell, Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup with Division Two side, Ely City Women taking on the current cup holders, Newmarket Town Women Development from Division One. 

  Ely City Women enjoying a rapid rise within the women’s footballing scene in Cambridgeshire. Ely City FC itself a prominent player in helping to promote the women’s game having hosted, Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Women along with a number of senior women’s cup finals before starting their own women’s side in 2022. Was a slow beginning a tough start struggling for results in their debut season but since then with a change of coaching staff the club has kicked on reaching their 1st ever cup final last season, while still in Division Three, losing narrowly to a late winner from Cambridge Rangers WFC in the Junior Invitation Cup. Went on to clinch 2nd spot in the table and win promotion to Division Two.

  The county leagues within Cambridgeshire featuring some strong sides, Ely have build a squad with useful experience making a good showing playing at a higher level currently 4th in the table. Have further strengthened their women’s section by introducing a Reserves side this season. Byes in the 1st two rounds of this season’s League Cup took on fellow Division Two side South Lincolnshire Swifts in the 3rd Round winning 1-0. A tough test in the quarter finals again against Division Two opposition at home taking on promotion pushing Bedfordshire side, Real Bedford Women Development, drawing 1-1 at full-time Ely came out 3-2 winners in the penalty shoot-out to win through to the last 4 to take on the holders aiming to make it successive cup final appearances. Danni Youngs the current top scorer with 7 goals, Charliene Murombo joining Ely this season netting 6 goals to date. Ely joined during the warm-up today by their U9’s side who have themselves won through to the semi-finals of their League Cup.

 Newmarket Town Women Development now an established side in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One, lifting their 1st silverware last season as they won at Ely’s Demcon Stadium last season beating Leverington Sports Ladies 2-1 in the League Cup final. A young side Newmarket very much a club built on youth development bringing players up through the age groups into the U18s and Development set-up with many going on to play for the 1st team, many changes to the side again this season, are well placed in mid-table mixing it with a strong line-up in the Division this season. 

  Cerys Bithell runaway top scorer for Newmarket this season netting 17 times already from 9 appearances. Newmarket beginning the defence of the League Cup in the 2nd Round ironically a repeat of the final away to Leverington Sports Ladies, the result again 2-1 to Newmarket with Bithell scoring both goals. Taking on fellow Division One side, Godmanchester Rovers Ladies away in the 3rd Round a single goal the difference going Newmarket’s way to sent them through to the last 8 with another away trip to take on Division Two side, Saffron Walden Community, goals from Jess Linger and Bithell 5 minutes from time sealing 2-1 victory to put them into the semi-finals and another away day against Ely.

 Ely City FC’s, Demcon Stadium the venue for todays semi-final, a dull, overcast a decidedly chilly day. The stadium part of a wider sporting complex that itself is behind Ely’s leisure and entertainment venue just off the A10. Featured a large and well used grass pitch, overlooked by a seated stand over the changing rooms, the clubhouse open with the bar serving hot and cold drinks. 

Ely City Women starting XI – Atlanta Stevenson. Kerry Dyer, Beth Horsfield, Ellie Cooper (C), Christine Cullen, Louisa Horwood, Natasha Lane, Megan Dunlevy, Danni Youngs, Treasure Nwanebu & Charliene Murombo. Subs – Charlotte Gibson. Ella Nutter. Erin Chandler, Kaci Gibson & Eve Mintus.

Ely City Women

 Newmarket Town Women Development starting XI – Mairi Robinson, Jess Linger, Molly Charles, Jazmine Sarpong, Lexie Moody, Cerys Compton (C), Lily Grundy, Alex Shelford, Keely Cole, Evie Stackhouse & Amelia Thompson. Subs – Eden Kirby-Cook, Sybbie Hoggar, Cerys Bithell & Bryony O’Connell.

Newmarket Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes) 

Captain’s Cerys Compton and Ellie Cooper with today’s referee Carlton Joseph

 Match referee Carlton Joseph and his two assistants leading the two sides out onto the pitch, it’s Newmarket who will kick-off the first half wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. Top scorer Bithell starting on the bench. Ely lined up opposite wearing an all red kit. The ball rolled back to full back, Jess Linger at the start from the right she sends it long up the wing looking for the run from, Evie Stackhouse, Christine Cullen into defend for Ely the ball out for a throw in. 

 

 GOAL! The throw from Cullen into Treasure Nwanebu, strong holding off players puts it up the wing for Charliene Murombo ahead of her the pair surging their way into the box, closed down by the defence shoulder to shoulder with Murombo the ball prodded back to the keeper, Mairi Robinson down to scoop it up inside the six yard, adjudged a back pass the referee blows up awarding the indirect free-kick to the hosts. Beth Horsfield forwards lining up to strike it the touch knocking the ball into her path on the angle, gets her foot under the ball to strike it with pace and enough lift to get over the crowd of players defending the goal line across the goal to blast Ely into the early lead 1-0.

Beth Horsfield fires Ely into an early lead

 The perfect start for the Division Two side, taking the lead inside the opening two minutes against their higher league opponents. A positive start from Ely the goal no doubt boosting the confidence scrapping for the ball in midfield, knocked up over the top, Nwanebu looking to get up with Murombo and take on the defence, Linger lunging in to take the ball from Murombo as she pulls left. Natasha Lane getting hold of the ball in the middle for Ely sending a weighed pass down the left wing for Horsfield to chase down, Linger getting back at her as the pair closes in on the by-line getting the tackle in to concede the corner kick. 

Newmarket’s Jess Linger

 From the left the corner fired in low towards the near post, captain, Ellie Cooper coming towards it attempting to turn the ball back across goal, wide, Murombo throwing herself at it at the far post can’t get a telling touch. Newmarket coming away with the ball left attempt a rapid counter, up the line to Amelia Thompson, Cullen across to close her down send the ball out of play. Up the other end Lexie Moody winning the ball at the back for Newmarket carries it into the middle before playing a diagonal ball central towards the top of the Ely area, Cooper getting her head on the ball to clear for Ely. 

  Newmarket captain, Cerys Compton onto the ball central making a positive drive through the middle, Megan Dunlevy coming back at her to challenge for Ely, a competitive start both sides rushing things a little, clearances not getting the distance. Ely look to get the ball on over the top, Nwanebu and Murombo linking up powering on looking to combine passes get into a shooting position, Moody and Molly Charles both winning tackles at the back for the visitors. Murombo getting in behind wide left to the by-line whipping a dangerous ball into the six yard box, but out by Charles.

 Linger getting her foot in to dispossess Murombo as she gets hold of the ball on the left lifts in on for Stackhouse to run with the ball down the wing, her cross into the area too close to the keeper, scooped up by Atlanta Stevenson at the near post. Ely looking to cause Newmarket issues with their passes direct into Murombo and particularly Nwanebu in attack, Nwanebu getting in behind Jazmine Sarpong as the ball bounces awkwardly, to drive on for the box, Sarpong recovering to get on her shoulder force her right she tries to pick out Murombo coming on through the middle the pass a little too telegraph, Robinson rushing out to claim hold of it gets their first. 

  Moody under pressure from Nwanebu though the middle holds her ground well to win the ball back, into Compton in the middle, has Lily Grundy up with her, the ball played on looks to play in Thompson coming in off the left, Kerry Dyer stretching out a leg to intercept the ball for the hosts. Stackhouse spinning in behind Cullen as she attacks down Newmarket’s right, cutting in towards the area, Cooper racing in to close her down put in the tackle before she can produce a cross.

Evie Stackhouse

  Ely creating a bit of pressure for themselves at the back not getting the ball clear as Newmarket get players up to close the ball down, lively Alex Shelford preparing a strike 20 yards out charged down by Louisa Harwood. Ely get the ball clear Lane up to Nwanebu pulling into the right channel, taking the ball on a strong run shoots from 20 yards out on the angle her strike into the side netting. The ball rarely still, Grundy with a diagonal pass into Stackhouse getting into space on the right again her early cross is claimed by the keeper. 

 Off a Linger throw high on the right, Cole wins Newmarket a corner kick. Whipped into the middle attacked by Sarpong around the penalty spot turned goal-wards her effort blocked inside the six yard box. No break on for Ely comes straight back a diagonal ball from the left lifted into the area, won by Cooper. A miscue at the back from Newmarket as the back pass from the left into Robinson is put straight at Murombo positioned left of the D, turns to get into the box looking to shoot is quickly closed down by Moody with the blocking tackle.

  Sarpong cutting out the cross inside Newmarket’s box as Cullen plays in Murombo on the left. The visitors gaining ground on the right with a throw Linger dropping the ball into Stackhouse’s feet, turns cleverly making a run for the area, Cooper out smartly to close her down. Lane linking up with Dunlevy in the middle winning the ball back, her pass up top into Nwanebu, looks to roll Sarpong, but the centre back can get a leg out to trap the ball prevent her getting in behind. 

Newmarket defender, Jazmine Sarpong

  Linger being kept busy in defence on the right wins the ball well setting Stackhouse away up the wing, crossing on the run her cross/shot swerving behind at the near post. The ground a little slick due to some earlier rain before kick-off aiding in a few mis-timed tackles from both sides, Dunlevy for Ely and Shelford for Newmarket both picking up knocks, the latter needing to come off the visitors making a change with Bryony O’Connell coming on. Ely continue to threaten as their long clearances form midfield give an opportunity for Murombo and Nwanebu to drive at the Newmarket defence the ball from the left from Horsfield played into the box, not finding the mark…

 GOAL! Newmarket are caught cold in defence half excepting an offside decision, Murombo nips in to steal the ball back right of the D and turn into the area wide of goal smashes the ball in over the keeper across goal to double the lead 2-0.

Charliene Murombo doubles Ely’s lead

  Ely doubling their lead as the game closes in on the half hour mark, the Newmarket bench furious with the prior attack looking to be offside, but the flag stayed down and the decision stands. Compton getting hold of the ball central for Newmarket making several purposeful runs towards the box, looking to go left link up with Thompson moving inside the ball threaded forwards Dyer cutting it out looking to get Youngs away up the wing, on for Nwanebu, Sarpong strong to get on her shoulder force her off the ball.

  Murombo coming off the worse as she and Moody go shoulder to shoulder to try and win the ball, back up on her feet after treatment, Ely wide the free-kick out wide. The Newmarket bench further frustrated as Stackhouse is penalised for handling the ball as it skips up in front of her. Horsfield to sent the ball long into the top of the area, knocked on, but claimed by Robinson. Newmarket pressing right to win a corner, swung in low to the near post, cleared by Cullen for a throw in the corner, Cole working the ball back up the lie for Linger to deliver the cross into the area, Dunlevy intercepting for the hosts to clear.

  Lane with the pass from midfield up to Nwanebu peeling into the right wing, driving on into the box has Murombo running in central, Newmarket’s defence close on Nwanebu en masse to prevent her getting the ball to her teammate. Both sides a guilty of giving the ball away cheaply is keeping the game open, Harwood putting the ball on for Nwanebu and Murombo up top but the Newmarket defence just about holds their line catching them offside. 

Evie Stackhouse and Natasha Lane

 

 Newmarket’s O’Connell plays the ball into Compton taking it left feeds it on for Thompson, Horsfield defending for Ely out for a throw, high up the pitch, played into Cole she looks to turn and cross the high ball into the area taken by Stevenson. Moody with the pass back to her keeper cool at the back as Ely lift the ball up to Murombo up top. The game opening up as Newmarket turn play around in the middle, Cullen just about dealing with Stackhouse slowing her down with a faint touch on the ball as she looks to steal in behind on the right, Compton coming over to regain possession succeeds in getting the ball on into the right channel for Stackhouse to chase, Cooper composed at the back shielding the ball back to her keeper.

Ely midfielder, Megan Dunlevy

 Ely are defending deeper but have numbers back frustrating Newmarket as they can’t find there mark with the final pass, Lane, Dunlevy and Harwood as defending in front of the defence. Cullen lunging in to get her foot on the ball sending it out for a throw as Linger tries to play in Stackhouse on the right. Into the closing moments of the first half, Murombo winning Ely a corner on the right, the delivery on low at the near post stabbed forwards a back heel attempt from close range sent wide of the upright as the whistle blows for half-time.

Half-time Ely City Women 2-0 Newmarket Town Women Development

 An entertaining first half, Ely matching their higher league opponents, getting off to a great start winning an indirect free-kick inside the box and scoring inside the opening two minutes. Looked a threat in attack with Murombo and Nwanebu running at the defence, the former stealing the ball back just before the half hour to double the lead. Both sides giving the ball away, played at a high tempo not much time afforded on the ball. Newmarket in particular frustrated with a few decisions and just can’t find their mark with the final ball haven’t tested the keeper. Need to work on a few thing’s if they are to get themselves back into the match in the second half. Ely in a strong position leading 2-0 and as is often the case the next goal might prove crucial for either side. 

 No surprise to see Newmarket making a couple of changes at the break as they look to get back into it early in the 2nd half, Charles and Stackhouse the players giving way on come Cerys Bithell and Eden Kirby-Cook. Ely unchanged as they get the 2nd half underway. Played back to Cooper in defence lifted long for Horsfield up on the left, tackled by Cole the ball hooked up the line, Cooper out to defend.

Newmarket’s Cerys Bithell with Ely’s Danni Youngs

 Newmarket looking to make a fast start to the 2nd period getting players on Linger pressing high on the right on for Thompson right side, 25 out goes to pull the trigger but slips as she shoots the ball going awry. Bithell into the action taking the ball on through the middle before sending it out to the left into Kirby-Cook peeling free into the back cutting her cross back in to the six yard box, Cooper there to clear for Ely. Newmarket determined early on O’Connell into Bithell central powers on stabbed forwards into Cole right channel, Cooper with a vital tackle to stop her spinning clear in behind her defence.

  A pause in play giving Ely a chance to regroup as, Dunlevy picking up a heavy knock. A little panicked at the back clearances not getting any distance inviting Newmarket on. Dunlevy back up on her feet able to play on. Kirby-Cook looking to make some impacting runs out on the left, attempts to get onto the end of a Compton pass through the middle, the ball cut out by Horsfield. Compton with the ball again central 25 out finds Cole free on the right her cross driven in long the face of goal, both Bithell and Kirby-Cook attacking it far post neither can get a touch as they throw themselves at the ball.

Newmarket captain, Cerys Compton

  Much better now from Newmarket putting the Ely defence under pressure limiting the opportunities to get the ball clear up to there attackers, Cole combining with Compton through the middle a great ball into the area to find Kirby-Cook free on the left six out wide of goal shoots sending the ball low into the near post, Stevenson across her goal down low to save has the angle covered.

Newmarket’ Eden Kirby-Cook

  Bithell taking the ball on down Newmarket’s left squaring the ball into the top of the D, Dunlevy tracking back with Compton to deny her a shot as she bursts forwards, Compton active releases the ball into Kirby-Cook left of goal her strike saved by Stevenson as she goes to ground getting behind the ball.

Ely goalkeeper, Atlanta Stevenson

 Ely not getting the ball into Murombo and Nwanebu as easily now, operating on the left both are strong on the ball looking to force their way forwards, Murombo upended winning a free-kick out wide, Horsfield to launch it into the area knocked on across the six yard box, Murombo after it far side looking to keep it alive tackled by Moody. Bithell coming off for Newmarket, Shelford re-joining the action.

 Newmarket pushing for a goal to get themselves back into the tie, Ely working hard in defence. Linger over a free-kick on the right wide, lifts it into the near post, lands in the side netting. Lane putting the ball on for Nwanebu she holds up the ball before sending the pass up to Murombo up top, Sarpong closing her down with the challenge to win the ball back. Another moment of frustration for Newmarket as Kirby-Cook is pulled up with the offside flag up as the visitors turn play around threaten to open Ely up.

Keely Cole

  Horsfield playing the ball on for Murombo on the left, Moody across to close her down sending the ball out of play for a corner kick. Flung into the near post, the ball cleared Newmarket break the ball on for Cole bursting on up the right flank her early cross, Stevenson kicking it clear as Thompson looks to close her down. Getting a little tense out there Ely are working hard in defence but Newmarket are quick to regain the ball, Sarpong bringing the ball on into midfield sending a into Shelford breaking into the left channel on the run strikes the ball back in across goal on the angle 20 yards out sees it race wide of the far post.

  Harwood closing Compton down in the middle looks for Murombo coming right, Moody getting the tackle in for the visitors coming forwards on the left sending a deep cross in to the far post, met by Thompson close in her touch deflecting is across the face of goal, attacked at close range at the opposite post, Stevenson throwing herself down diving to get hold of the ball. 

Newmarket’s Lexie Moody

  Moody with a diagonal ball launched up towards the top of the area headed away by Cooper. 20 minutes played in the 2nd half, Ely under pressure but holding firm, another pause as Murombo takes a heavy blow. Players drawn to the ball play is often condensed to one side of the pitch leaving space to run into if players can pick the pass. Murombo is up the game restarting with a free-kick out wide, lane to put it on into the area, Moody clearing for the visitors. Newmarket making another change with Thompson coming off, Sybbie Hoggar coming on.

  The game scrappy at times both side going in to win the ball back, Harwood with Dunlevy, on for Nwanebu, Grundy getting a foot in for Newmarket, Moody clearing. Compton surging on through the middle with the ball, plays a great ball out to Kirby-Cook on the left as she races into the box, lining up the shot wide of goal, strikes the ball, Cooper racing back across her path to throw herself in to charge the ball down, taking a heavy whack to the face the ball behind for the corner. Cooper in need of treatment though before it came be taken several players taking the opportunity to take on fluids, Ely know they are close now to seizing the win but still have work to do.

Ellie Cooper racing across to block Eden Kirby-Cook’s shot

  Moving into the final 15 minutes of the contest, Cooper back on her feet the ball from the left swung into the six yard Harwood getting a touch with her head to glance it on past the far post and turned behind for a goal kick. Nwanebu tackled by Grundy as Murombo works the ball on for her on the left. Linger coming into the middle sending the ball into Shelford left side cuts the ball back into the middle for Kirby-Cook inside the D, her strike blocked by Cooper. 

Ely’s Treasure Nwanebu

 Murombo getting a throw high on the left as Lane sends the ball up to her, worked inside a high ball hooked inside drops to Youngs in the right channel stretching to try and get it under control runs wide, Robinson coming out to the edge of her box to claim. Youngs racing on looking to get after a ball hooked on by Nwanebu through the middle, Robinson with a good starting position out quickly to get hold of the ball. Cooper up the other end dealing with another dangerous cross into the box from the left by Kirby-Cook. 

Dunlevy with an unceremoniously tackle on Compton as they both side in on the ball giving away the set-piece 30 plus yards out to the left of goal. Linger over it is frustrated as she angles the ball in dropping wide of the far post. Linger coming off soon after with Thompson thrown back on. Cole seeing a shot blocked right of the D, initially by Cooper, then by Dyer as she gets a 2nd bite at the cherry.

  Ely making a change late in the game, Youngs coming off, Charlotte Gibson coming on. Moddy defending at the back for Newmarket, Cole bringing the ball on threads the past forwards looking for Shelford, cut out by Cooper. Stackhouse back on for Newmarket replacing Grundy. Murombo upended on the left winning a free-kick out wide a high ball launched into the box claimed by Robinson. Ely looking a little nervous at the back, Stevenson rushing out to the top of her area opting to kick the ball clear as Sarpong looks to send Shelford in on goal. 

Louisa Harwood

 Moving into the final few minutes of the game is tense, Compton getting hold of the ball still full of running bursts forwards, Cooper coming out to close her down ease her off the ball. Lane defending top of her D as Newmarket send a free-kick on half way into the mix, turned wide for a throw on the right. Into stoppage time Ely clear the ball up to Murombo looking to break clear through the middle, Moody lunging in defending for Newmarket. One last break for the visitors as the through ball to the left of the box finds Kirby-Cook breaking in on goal a wild strike sent over the bar signals the last action of the game as the final whistle is blown and Ely win 2-0 to reach the League Cup final for the first time.

Full time Ely City Women 2-0 Newmarket Town Women Development

  Ely will play Spalding United Women in this season’s League Cup final after the Division One newcomers beat Cambridge Rangers WFC 3-1 away from home, initially scheduled for the 9th of April to be played at Ely’s Demcom Stadium. Ely working at in defence to keep Newmarket at bay 2nd half, successfully defending the 2-0 lead earned in the first half. Newmarket much improved it just wouldn’t fall for them 2nd half needed an early goal and the longer it went the more determined Ely became after riding out a shaky spell early in the 2nd period, worked hard as a unit to defence limiting opportunities to get forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose another Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, more often than not a hard call but not this time around had a clear choice in my mind before the final whistle and my notes only confirmed that. Some standout performances from both sides to mention first though, for Newmarket, captain Cerys Compton made she strong runs with the ball, kept going for 90 minutes looking to get the attackers in on goal ahead of her. Lexie Moody with some good tackles at the back covered the ground well, as did Jazmine Sarpong, used the ball well going forwards too. Eden Kirby-Cook found space in the 2nd half coming on and made some great runs into the box. A strong defensive performance from Ely working as a team the midfield, Natasha Lane, Louisa Harwood and Megan Dunlevy all getting back to help the defence while looking to get the attackers going forwards. Treasure Nwanebu a handful to deal with, strong and pro-active making runs and linking up with Charliene Murombo well. Credit to the entire defence the award goes to Ely’s captain Ellie Cooper was excellent throughout winning the ball, reading the game, clearing and interceptions, she’ll feel that block from Kirby-Cook no doubt but it summed up her performance to a tee. 

 An entertaining semi-final, always like my visits to Ely, some strong sides competing across the county now. My thanks to both teams and the referee Carlton Joseph for their help with the team line-ups today as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Costessey Sports Ladies

Sunday 18th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup 

sponsored by Harrod Sport

At last back to the football in 2026 my first game of the year, after sitting out the first 2 weekends of the year due to other commitments. A weekend of county cup action with the competitions across the East hotting up with most entering the quarter final stage and beyond, Norfolk no exception with the big guns entering the competition as it moves to the last 8, Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies finalists in last season’s county cup hosting Norfolk Division One side, Costessey Sports Ladies. 

 FAWNL side, Norwich City Women dominating the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, sponsored by Harrod Sport in recent season’s. Are not participating in the competition this time around leaving the door open for a new club to get their name carved onto the trophy, Eastern Region big hitters, Wroxham Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women will be amongst the favourites along with Division One North counter parts Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies who have a strong pedigree in the competition along with Thetford Town Ladies. Thetford up against Dussindale & Hellesdon in the last 8. Wroxham are away to Norfolk Division One side Sprowston FC Women. It’s an all Norfolk Division One clash between Aylsham FC Women and UEA FC Women which will guarantee at least one tier 7 side in the last 4 with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies hosting Costessey in the last quarter final tie. 

 Something of a stop start season in the league for Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies, currently 8th in ERWFL Division One North, would like to have had a few more points on the board as they sit uncomfortably close to the bottom sides with 3 going down, but with games in hand have 7 of the 11 left to play at home. The weather not helping with their pitch seeing alot of action not always available. Bringing in a few younger players to bolster an experienced squad, top scorer and captain, Rebekah Lake missing several games through injury still has 8 goals for the season, joint top scorer along side Atlanta Griffith. This their 1st game since December 14th, will be keen to get their county cup campaign off to a positive start.

  Costessey Sports Ladies looking to stop them, a tough ask but come into the game full of confidence after notching up a big 16-0 win at home last Sunday against KLSC FC Women. Currently 3rd in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table have bee growing season upon season since entering women’s football, have a squad full of young exciting talent with a useful blend of experienced heads amongst them. Scoring plenty of goals too, have won 7 of their 8 league games so far and although the league looks to be Lowestoft Town Ladies to lose, are well placed to push them all the way. Thea Hackney, Chloe Moulton and Alisha Juby the clubs top scorers so far this season all into double figures.

 Mulbarton Wanderers, Adobe Area at Mulberry Park the venue for this afternoon’s county cup tie. Another heavy bout of rain coming into the weekend a concern for the ground but despite being heavy under foot is okay for today’s game, the two sides warming up on the practice pitches beyond to save further wear and tear. The social club open beside the ground across the carpark. The tea hut inside the ground open too. The sun making an appearance trying to cast a little heat as it begins to set, a few dark clouds about with the odd spot of rain set to fall during the match.

 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Megan Gowing, Victoria McNorton, Faye Bye, Megan Belsey, Jade Telfer, Molly Stevenson, Melissa Belsey, Maddy McCormick, Sam Rue, Atlanta Griffith & Rebekah Lake (C), Subs – Alyssia Barrett, Izzy Fitchew, Florrie Martin, Emma Farmer & Izzy Noakes.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

 Costessey Sports Ladies starting XI – Kelly Fox, Grace Wall, Sydnie Brown. Alyssia Baldock, Chelsea Brister (C), Olivia Smith, Abbie Nobbs, Hannah Campbell, Alisha Juby, Holly Williams & Chloe Moulton. Subs – Cyan Fullbrook, Phoebe Pierpoint, Kyara Everett, Jenny Moore & Poppy Lyons.

Costessey Sports Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Chelsea Brister and Rebekah Lake with today’s match referee, Alexander Vasey

  Key players missing for both sides, Mulbarton without, defender, Lucy Lincoln and midfielder Laura Hedtke. Costessey without their top scorer, Thea Hackney. Have Holly Williams back in the squad though recently returning after being out for over a 100 days through injury. It’s Costessey to get this afternoon’s cup tie underway wearing red coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and red socks. Mulbarton lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The back rolled back to captain, Chelsea Brister at the back fired back into the middle, Hannah Campbell more commonly known as Scooby taking the ball on before playing it up the left channel, Mulbarton’s Victoria McNorton seeing it out of play for the throw in. 

  Mulbarton build down the right Melissa Belsey seeing the ball fed on down the line for captain, Rebekah Lake to attack shifts in infield looking for Atlanta Griffith outside the box is closed down quickly by Costessey’s Olivia Smith. Jade Telfer getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park for Mulbarton looks to attempt a through ball for lake pulling into the left channel, the ball instead intercepted by Brister at the back for the visitors, cleared away for a throw on the left. 

 Off the throw, Lake takes the ball on to the by-lie looking to force her way into the box, Alyssia Baldock comes to charge the ball down, behind for the first corner of the game.. Early pressure from the hosts the corner whipped in dangerously across the face of goal narrowly missed by Griffith positioned at the far post. Mulbarton with players pushed up quick to regain possession in the final 3rd played into Melissa Belsey on the right her short on the angle straight at goalkeeper, Kelly Fox. 

 A few spots of rain in the air as Mulbarton are awarded a free-kick in the middle, lively Costessey busy trying to close the ball down, looks a little chaotic at times, Mulbarton quick to react win the ball back, Faye Bye getting up on the left from the back for the hosts feeing the ball into the box looking for Lake darting in from the left, Fox reacting sharply rushing out to get to the ball gather into her gloves before Lake can steal in beyond her. 

Mulbarton captain, Rebekah Lake

 Costessey with pace in attack, Abbie Nobbs getting hold of the ball after a robust tackle in the middle sending it on for Holly Williams ahead of her central has Chloe Moulton racing on with her to the right rolls the ball into the wing ahead of her, Megan Belsey across on the cover well to get to the ball first clear for Mulbarton. Costessey turn play around as Moulton takes the ball on up the right turns it infield for Williams who has Campbell busting a gut to get up with her on the left, entering the box the ball played into her, McNorton stands fast to block her run clear the ball.

  Mulbarton press the advantage off of a throw high on the left, Bye into Sam Rue to turn inside down the wing delivering a shot from an acute angle wide across the face of goal. The pitch is heavy, running with the ball tricky, Williams seeing it into her feet lays it back to Moulton, Telfer slides in to win the ball back for Mulbarton. Molly Stevenson gets the ball into Melissa Belsey on the right for Mulbarton looks to send it down the line for Lake to chase down, just a little too much on it as Brown comes back on the cover to defend the ball runs out for the goal kick. 

Costessey’s Holly Williams

  Alisha Juby sending the ball into Moulton on the right she in turn fires it forwards towards the top of the area for Williams to attack, pressure on Megan Belsey as the defender looks to get the ball away safely runs behind for the corner kick. Brister on the corner from the right played into the top of the area, Williams getting a touch to turn it into the crowded six yard box, Griffith getting control of the ball for Mulbarton to being it away from danger.

Costessey’s Chloe Moulton

  Mulbarton getting the ball into their attackers but Costessey getting a defensive block in to deny the final ball in behind. Campbell bringing the ball forwards for the visitors finds Williams through the middle sends the pass out to Moulton advancing on the right delivers a cross into the area, cut out by McNorton, Mulbarton rapid in the counter the ball helped on up through the middle by Maddy McCormick. Lake looking to run in behind the Costessey defence, Fox rushing out of her area, the get to the ball first.

Costessey goalkeeper, Kelly Fox

  Mulbarton with a throw high on the left the ball fed in across the top of the Costessey area, comes to Rue pulls the trigger from 20 yards out a low drive towards the left of goal, Fox down to save pushing the ball wide of the upright for a corner kick. The corner flung into the six yard box, met headed down towards the left post, cut out and cleared by defender, Grace Wall for the visitors. 

Grace Wall

 Mulbarton press well in the final third forcing a throw on the left, Rue strong on the ball looking to take players on as she presses for the area, instead feeds it down the line for Lake making a run to the by-line her cross dugout looping across the face of goal, just over Griffith at the far post. Melissa Belsey right on for Lake switching channels a darting run looks to cross into the middle, cut out by Smith away for a throw. 

Mulbarton’s Atlanta Griffith

 Mulbarton build through the middle, Telfer to McCormick on for Griffith 25 yards out lifts the ball out to Lake to the right crosses it back inside the box to Griffith who outmuscles a defender to break in on goal her shot straight at the keeper, Fox instinctive gloves up to beat the ball away. Griffith with a rising shot on the angle right of the area over the bar as Mulbarton continue to press high. 

 Nobbs onto Campbell picks out Juby getting away into space on the right wing knocking the ball on, Megan Belsey gets across to direct the ball out for the throw before a cross is attempted. The hosts quick to launch a counter Rue on for Melissa Belsey right side has Lake pulling into the wing ahead of her the game stretched, Fox comes racing out of her box, a long way from goal committed has to get there a does, out for a throw, a sweeper keeper at times.

  A battling contest in the middle at times, both sides getting stuck in, scrappy, Telfer lifting the ball up over the defence, Fox well placed to of her area to gather before Lake can capitalise. Rue coming in off the left with the ball driving it in central for lake top of the D, strikes the ball her low shot driven in, straight at the keeper, Fox down to claim the ball. Continues to be lively Telfer fouling Juby on halfway, Nobbs to play the ball up towards the top of the area from the right knocked down by Campbell into Juby 20 yards out her shot charged down the ball deflected away to the right another attempt turned wide.

Costessey’s Alisha Juby with Mulbarton’s Jade Telfer

  Campbell bringing the ball on for Costessey up to Williams in attack, Megan Belsey getting her foot in to take the ball away from her. Costessey looking a threat driving on through the middle as Mulbarton risk over committing up the other end Williams rolling the ball on for Moulton breaking into the right channel striking the ball on the run from 20 yards out, Megan Gowing relatively untroubled in the Mulbarton goal to this point called into down behind the ball to save. 

Megan Belsey

 GOAL! Costessey gaining some momentum in the final 3rd press the ball on the right Brown up with Campbell the ball cut back into the top of the area for Williams, is fouled by McNorton, the referee blowing up straight away pointing to the spot! Penalty! Campbell to take it a chance to put her side ahead from the spot makes no mistake striking a firm penalty low past the keeper as she dives to her left, 0-1.

Hannah Campbell fires Costessey into the lead from the penalty spot

  Costessey opening the scoring, on the half hour, Costessey with their tails up, Campbell proactive getting after the ball making some useful runs into the left channel Brown picking her out, Campbell held up by McNorton looking to lay it back to Brown, Stevenson closing her down well for Mulbarton to get her side going forwards. Fox comes racing out of her area again to the right to get to the ball first as Lake looks to pull clear behind Brown on the wing.

  Costessey making a change, Williams coming off to be replaced by Poppy Lyons in attack. Ping ball in the middle as Rue looks to plough a path through the Costessey defence before being brought down. Griffith over the free-kick left of the circle, goes for goal a high ball in dropping far side, Fox behind it but doesn’t get hold of the ball loose Mulbarton rush in to attack knocked on towards the far post stabbed wide even as the hosts appeal for a penalty but nothing given.

  Mulbarton’s front 3 looking to fight their way through the Costessey defence, Baldock and Brister both with blocking tackles on Rue and Lake, those two looking to link up on the left side the cross put into Griffith central top of the D, can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to release a shot before Campbell snaps in with the challenge. Kyara Everett coming on for Costessey taking a position on the right replacing Moulton. Links up with Juby on the flank the ball crossed inside met by Lyons right of the D her snap shot in low held by Gowing.

  GOAL! Into the final minutes of the 1st half, Mulbarton bring the ball on through the middle, Stevenson with Rue sent out to the right played in down the line for Lake to chase down the Costessey defence getting drawn to the ball as she fires a pacy cross into the six yard box, Griffith arriving unopposed to turn the ball past the keeper to level the scores, 1-1.

Atlanta Griffith fires in the equaliser for Mulbarton

  Mulbarton back on level terms late on in the 1st half, look to make one last push before the half draws to a close, attacking down the left the ball played into Lake down the line her cross cut back into the top of the area runs on for Rue to strike the ball low and hard past the diving keeper, Mulbarton rush to her to congratulate thinking they have turned it around only for the referee to be called over to consult the line assistant, the flag was raised was Lake in an offside position, the goal is chalked off much to Mulbarton’s consternation!

Mulbarton’s Sam Rue

 Soon after the whistle blows for half-time, the Mulbarton players still speaking with the referee as the interval begins. 

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 1-1 Costessey Sports Ladies

Both sides staying out on the pitch during the half-time interval. Mulbarton have looked press the attack have created opportunities without overly stretching the Costessey back-line, Fox playing as a sweeper keeper at times a risky ploy when you have a predator in attack such as Lake. On the whole however the visitors have battled hard been lively and looked to keep the ball moving offering a threat in attack dangerous in the counter getting players on from the middle drawing the penalty and opening the scoring from the spot. Mulbarton stretching there opponents defence to put Griffith in the clear for the equalising goal late in the half, a hint of offside about that one, scoring a 2nd soon after the flag going against them this time around to leave it all square and all to play for in the 2nd half. Will Costessey be able to keep it up or will their higher league opponents find the extra edge in the 2nd half.

  Changes for both sides art the start of the 2nd half, Florrie Martin, Izzy Fitchew and Emma Farmer coming in in midfield and the left side replacing, Telfer, Bye and Melissa Belsey. Williams is back on for Costessey in attack replacing Everett, Phoebe Pierpoint has come on to at left back replacing Brown. Mulbarton to get the 2nd half underway the ball played forwards Costessey move in quick to close it down comes to Pierpoint left side lifts a high ball up towards the top of the Mulbarton area, cleared by Belsey.

  Tentative at the start of the 2nd half both sides rushing in to close down the ball, neither making much headway, Campbell looking to push on from the middle support Williams in attack. Fitchew clearing a hopeful ball forwards as Williams races in to try and close her down. Emma Farmer taking it on up the left flank a strong run her diagonal ball into the box taking a deflection off Smith that sees it turned safely back to her keeper. 

  Griffith is crudely upended top of the D as she looks to hold the ball up for Mulbarton winning her side the free-kick, takes on the set-piece herself getting a stringing shot past the wall straight at the keeper however Fox palming it down, luckily avoiding Martin as she closes in at the far post the loose ball hooked clear by Wall. 

  McNorton now over on the left of defence for Mulbarton lunges in to deny, Juby as she looks to drive with the ball at her feet on the wing. Campbell with the ball at her feet driving forwards for Costessey runs into traffic, the ball cleared out to the left, Pierpoint latching onto the ball swings a good looking ball in towards the top of the area, Williams interested however Gowing with a good starting position is out quickly to the top of her box to gather the ball into her gloves. 

Alisha Juby

  Rue forcing her way on with the ball through the middle for Mulbarton pushed on for Griffith, her 25 yard strike taking a deflection of a defender seeing in spin on into the box right of goal, favouring Lake as she breaks in behind to latch onto it, drags her attempt wide across the six yard box. Costessey making another change with Lyons coming off, Jenny Moore. Mulbarton forcing a corner on the left, curled into the six yard box attacked at the far post turned wide.

Atlanta Griffith with Costessey’s Olivia Smith

  Griffith battling hard on the ball for Mulbarton fighting on through the middle lays the ball into Farmer’s path out on the right, Pierpoint across to challenge try and stop the cross, prevents the ball going out for a corner, Mulbarton with a throw instead. Martin linking up with Griffith off the throw in the corner getting the return ball into her feet her cross/shot saved by Fox down low at her near post.

   Williams taking the ball on from Campbell through the middle, surges on towards the area, runs into Belsey who stands her ground. Fox out of her area again to challenge Griffith outside her area central as she looks to get the ball fizzed into her by Rue out of her feet. 

 GOAL! An hour played the game totally opening up play stretched as Mulbarton press Costessey back, the visitors sharp on the counter break as the ball is launched into Juby on the right, drives in before whipping a ball into the middle of the six yard box, Gowing trying to close down Campbell as she looks to turn the ball back across goal, knocked up into the air, Campbell keeps her composure to lift her left foot get it up over the dropping ball fire and strike it back across the keeper to fire her side back into the lead 1-2.

Hannah Campbell scores her 2nd to restore Costessey’s lead

 Costessey retaking the lead look sharp in the 2nd half, Mulbarton a little flat footed the game opening up the visitors dropping back in defence making it hard to find a way through on goal. Rotating players to keep their energy levels up. Brown coming back on to support, Pierpoint on the left, defends as Farmer looks to drive on up the wing with the ball. Fitchew up on the right to close Pierpoint down finds Farmer free ahead of her, sends a looping cross into the box, headed away to safety by Costessey’s Baldock. 

Mulbarton’s Emma Farmer

  Williams coming off with Moulton back on for Costessey in attack. The offside flag goes up against Juby on the right as she races on looking to get onto the end of a diagonal ball from Moore. Farmer forcing a throw high on the left, taken by Martin links up with Rue, Baldock charging down the cross, the 2nd attempt played into the top of the area cut out by Nobbs. Fox always ready to charge out of her area does so again on Griffith as Martin sends the ball into her feet. 

  Mulbarton looking to find the equalising goal build well through the middle Martin threading it on, cut out by Smith, back to Lake central has Griffith to her right pulling into the channel 25 yards out takes on the strike the ball rising just not enough to clear the keeper as Fox gets her arms up to save knocking the ball down into the ground and getting hold of it.

Rebekah Lake

  Bye back onto the pitch for Mulbarton, also coming on Alyssia Barrett with the game closing in on the final 15 minutes. Costessey working hard in defence, space to exploit on the counter as Mulbarton look to press find their way back into the contest. Campbell with the ball for Costessey moving left has Brown bombing on looking to get in behind sends the ball on however Gowing is out quickly to the top of her area to claim. 

 Griffith with a snap shot from all of 20 yards out as Lake brings the ball down into her path looping in on goal, frustration as it lands on the roof of the net. Everett back on for Costessey as they continue to rotate players, Nobbs putting the ball on for Moulton through the middle picks out Everett right side, Barrett quick to close her down for Mulbarton. Smith intercepts well getting in ahead of Griffith as Rue pushing on with the ball through the middle tries to pick her out.

 Mulbarton with a throw high on the right, Rue with Griffith the cross worked into the six yard box, Lake near side with the shot, charged down, pops back to Martin left of goal fired back into the mix pops up lose for Griffith to strike from close range, blasts the ball straight into the keeper as Fox beats it away. 

 Mulbarton frustrated can’t find a way past the keeper as the chances mount up, lake getting onto the ball left of goal inside the box, holds off the defence as the keeper starts to comes gets a strike away pulling it wide across the area past the far post. Campbell coming off for Costessey as they send Juby back on. Mulbarton going for broke pushing players on as the game closes in on the 85th minute, Pierpoint up to cut the ball out as farmer looks to play it in from the right. Smith defending up against Griffith as Mulbarton come on through the middle the ball running on in behind Fox onto it claiming the ball before Lake can pounce.

  Juby back to defend for Costessey as Griffith looks to play the ball on for martin making a left channel run. Rue with some strong running on the ball throughout the game powers on through the middle, Smith moving in to make the challenge. Farmer onto the ball for Mulbarton bursting into the area right of goal the angle acute as she goes to pull the trigger, Fox there again covering the post down quickly to get behind the ball, loose, Pierpoint is back to defend preventing the ball running behind for a corner. 

 The clock ticking down, Mulbarton doing all they can to find a way through late on, Costessey holding firm, defending deep Griffith finding Farmer out on the right her cross cut back into the penalty area, headed away by Baldock. Moore winning the ball back for Costessey in the final 3rd as Martin looks to find Lake top of the D. Time almost up Lake left on for Griffith squares it into the area, Costessey have plenty back to cut it out. One final push through the middle, Rue driving on with the ball into traffic, cleared a coming together off the ball, play stopped the referee showing Rue a straight red card in the dying seconds. Costessey hold on to celebrate an historic win knocking out higher league opposition to reach the last 4 of this season’s county cup.

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 1-2 Costessey Sports Ladies

  Two Norfolk Division One sides into the last 4 of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup with UEA FC Women scoring 2 late goals to beat Aylsham in their quarter final. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women also through beating Thetford 3-0 to advance. Wroxham’s game at Sprowston postponed will try again next weekend. A memorable win for Costessey, their coach Paul Sell did tell me they were full of confidence going into the game, looked eager and rotating players kept fresh legs on the pitch throughout. Rode their luck at times but were determined having gotten into the lead 1st half conceding an equaliser were fortunate Mulbarton’s 2nd goal was chalked off due to offside, took advantage to retake the lead on the hour and battled hard at the back from there on in. Mulbarton looked rusty haven’t played for 5 weeks, will be disappointed, created chances just picked out the keeper more than not with their shots. An enjoyable cup contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of 2026. A straight forward one which isn’t usually the case, although there were a few who put themselves in contention and plenty of performances to mention. Firstly for Mulbarton, Sam Rue was strong on the ball throughout with some useful penetrating runs either coming in off the flank or through the middle. Atlanta Griffith too with some strong runs and good positioning throughout will be frustrated having gotten one goal not to add another. That was to a large percentage due to Costessey goalkeeper, Kelly Fox, a sweeper keeper at times read the game well knowing when not to come, her defence deeper 2nd half the ball coming at her late was ready and alert. Olivia Smith with a number of vital interceptions at the back, the defence strong as a group. Abbie Nobbs using the ball well ahead of them. Holly Williams making some useful runs in attack looked to get Costessey into some good attacking positions. The award though goes to midfielder Hannah Campbell was as solid all round performance, worked hard to win the ball and get forwards to support the attack, firing her side into the lead from the spot and helping lead the attack 2nd half scoring the all important winning goal.

 It’s good to be back, even if I’m a little rusty myself, an entertaining cup tie to kick the year off, thanks to both sides for their assistance today. Good to catch up with a few footballing friends too. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Thetford Town Ladies v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Sunday 14th December

ERWFL Division One North

One last game to finish 2025, with a short trip to Thetford to watch Thetford Town Ladies take on newly promoted Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in ERWFL Division One North.

 The Division One North table taking a clear shape as we move into the final weekends fixtures of 2025, Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies looking unstoppable at the top of the table, with a 100% record so far recording 12 wins from 12. Runners-up spot looks to be between Stevenage FC Women Development and Real Bedford Women Reserves, a pack looking to chase down a top half finish, the rest including Fulbourn in a relegation battle a tough league format with 3 of the 12 sides going down at the end of the season. Not easy to build stability nor consolidate your place in the league.

 Thetford Town Ladies have done that, promoted from the Norfolk county league has achieved both to become an established side within the Division now up to it’s full compliment of 12 sides. The ERWFL ever competitive and getting stronger season, upon season. Amber Browne now in charge of the side having been joint manager previously looking to push Thetford on get them into a position to be amongst those pushing for the title and promotion. 

  Building a strong squad with a good blend of youth and experience has been an up and down first half to the season currently 8th with as many wins as losses, well placed to push on into the top half in the new year, but nervously looking over their shoulder keen to pull further clear of the bottom 4 as they all start to claw in some points. Have recently signed, Becky Russell previously with Wroxham Women, returning to the game following the birth of her 2nd child. One of the best midfielders in the county for over a decade will be a huge asset to the club. Hannah Claughton currently top scorer with 5 goals 1 ahead of Gabrielle Cobb.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds the longest established club in Cambridgeshire, winning the Cambs Division One title last season and having been at the top end of the league pushing for a few seasons, make the step up into regional football for the 1st time. Renowned for having a strong attack, attackers Ellie Woodley and Marie Stubbings alone scored 65 goals between them last season on their way to the title. 

 Have found life at tier 6 alot tougher but wanted to test themselves at this level, find themselves in the bottom 3 however in a scrap to avoid relegation, everyone around them battling for points, is close with Biggleswade United Women just outside a point clear, knowing they are being hunted, by Fulbourn, Cambridge City Women and Colney Heath Ladies. The goals not so easy to come by a side used to outscoring their opponents have had to adapt this season. Captain Marie Stubbings top scorer with 9 goals to her name, with Grace Muffett on 4 and Amber may with 3. Ellie Woodley having been away travelling is now back with the club and adds a potent threat to their attack as they press for points going into the new year. 6 points behind Thetford a win possibly lifting them out of the bottom 3 while pulling their opponents closer to the drop zone than they would like.

 Thetford Town FC’s., Mundford Road Stadium the venue for this afternoon’s match, the compact ground featuring a sloping grass pitch. The clubhouse and bar serving hot and cold drinks open the main seated stand beside the changing rooms beneath. In the stands this afternoon as a pose to my usual spot on the opposite side of the ground with the sun low behind the stand making photography tricky, decidedly chilly in the shade however, otherwise dry.

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Mya Parker, Shannon Chandler, Zoe Klimcke, Fran Peeling (C), Sausha Levy-Twoney, Hannah Rogers, Becky Russell, Hannah Claughton, Emily Birt, Megan Chandler & Gabrielle Cobb. Subs – Jess Queimado, Jess Marriott, Liv Dunne, Megan Haynes & Ruby Lakey.

Thetford Town Ladies

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Charlotte Duhy, Jess Adams, Alex Milner, Jasmine Fox, Jess Anderson, Caragh Dangerfield, Nat Wells, Katie Chaudhry, Marie Stubbings (C), Ebony Crook & Ellie Woodley. Subs – Hollie Colling & Amber May.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Fran Peeling and Marie Stubbings with today’s match official, Christian Grove.

  Thetford naming 5 on their bench, have some good attacking options to bring on. Wearing their home colours, an all claret coloured kit. Don’t think I’ve seen Fulbourn in any other colours than their sky blue and claret, but have a new away kit today, testing it out for the 1st time an all navy strip with white trim on the sleeves and shorts. Have a few absent naming just the 2 on their bench. The visitors to kick-off the first half, the sun behind the stand casting a shadow across half the pitch may cause a few issues during the contest. The ball played back to Jasmine Fox in defence, played to the right, Thetford moving in quickly to close the ball down a rushed pass up the wing Ellie Woodley the target, dealt with by Zoe Klimcke for the hosts.

Thetford captain, Fran Peeling

  Thetford captain, Fran Peeling on the ball at the back sends a clipped pass long into Emily Birt on the right wing her touch taking her inside plays it across the top of the Fulbourn area into Gabrielle Cobb, 25 yards out, to the left of the D, takes on the shot, rising in at goal but a straight forward catch for goalkeeper, Charlotte Duhy. Fulbourn build from the back getting on up the right, Ebony Crook lifting the ball on for Woodley on the right flank, Klimcke coming across her path the see the ball out of play for the goal kick.

Thetford full back, Zoe Klimcke

  A little tentative from both sides early on no one keeping hold of the ball for long. Peeling lining up another pass into Birt on halfway, looks to turn run off her marker as she brings the ball down, Alex Milner pushed up with her for Fulbourn the full back, getting in a timely challenge to halt her advance the ball out for a throw. From the throw Thetford get the ball infield into Cobb, looking to make a run into the box, Fox going with her sticking out a leg to take the ball off her feet.

Jess Adams clearing the ball for Fulbourn

  Thetford forcing a corner as they look to make ground off the earlier throw in. On the right the delivery flashed in across the face of goal attacked low at the far post, Fulbourn with a player on the post blocking on the line scrambling the ball clear. Peeling’s long balls out from the back, posing a threat, looknig for Birt as she comes into the right channel, Milner throwing out a leg with a vital interception. 

Thetford’s Emily Birt

 Winning the ball in midfield, Nat Wells sends the ball on for Woodley threads it into the right channel for Stubbings running in behind the Thetford defence, a defender getting back on her shoulder as she enters the box, pulls the trigger getting a strike away. Mya Parker scrambling across her goal seeing it race wide of the near post. Thetford pressing high getting their midfielders up on the visiting defence force an error the ball put straight into Russell to the right of the D, lays it out wide to Birt who stands a high ball up into the area, Cobb looking to attack it jumping up with Jess Anderson, the defender getting her head on the ball first to get it away.

 Both sides wanting to get the ball up the pitch quickly Fulbourn with Katie Chaudhry on the ball picks out Crook then Woodley on the right, forcing a throw off Klimcke, Fulbourn win their first corner kick of the match. Played into the near post area from the right, Peeling heading it clear for Thetford. The hosts look for a quick break the ball into Hannah Claughton on the left sends it on for Cobb, just a little too much on it, giving Jess Adams time to close her down.

 Crook plays the ball on for Woodley right channel inside form 20 yards out pulls the trigger, her angled shot, into Parker’s mid-riff. Russell getting on from midfielder cutting down the options for the Fulbourn defence putting them under pressure rushing passes, grabbing hold of the loose ball drives on towards the box, Fox diving in to tackle for Fulbourn upending Cobb as she makes a run across her. 

 Little time for anyone to dwell on the ball, Fulbourn looking to release runners into the channels, Crook looks to pick out Chaudhry as she makes a move into the left channel the threaded pass on into the box, Parker with a good starting position sliding in to claim the ball before Chaudhry can get there. A few risky balls at the back from Fulbourn penned back squeezed by the Thetford midfielder, Megan Chandler up with Russell, Anderson getting a blocking tackle in the ball on for Wells into Stubbings launched on for Woodley in attack right side of the D, in behind turning the defence, Parker again with a good starting position out to the edge of her area getting down to scoop up the ball.

Fulbourn’s Ellie Woodley

  Thetford winning a free-kick out wide on the right as Birt is fouled, Peeling on it sending a ball long into the area, Fox clearing it for the visitors. Both sides fairly even in the opening 20 minutes, Thetford applying more pressure pushing Fulbourn deeper, the visitors looknig to use the space this creates. Thetford turning a throw deep on the left into a corner, the delivery put behind at the near post. Wells getting hold of the ball in the middle for Fulbourn played up to Stubbings who hooks it out too Woodley racing on down the right, her cross on the run driven in behind at the near post.

  Birt turning on the ball getting a half yard on the right cutting a cross in along the top of the D, Anderson, lunging in to stop it, just about getting it clear with Cobb looking to take advantage. Wells linking up with Chaudhry in midfield for Fulbourn the ball sent on into the left channel for Stubbings to chase, looks a little too strong but the Fulbourn captain, does well to play the ball off a defender to win a corner kick. Take quickly short curled into the far post defender by Levy-Twoney out for a corner on the right. This one lifted in near post cleared by Peeling. Thetford look for the counter the ball into Birt, head down drives on, Fox back on her defending well for the visitors. 

Fulbourn captain, Marie Stubbings

The low sun causing a few issues, although Shannon Chandler has her eyes balls on a different setting from everyone else

 Thetford’s Hannah Rogers winning the ball in midfield sending it out to the left, Claughton drawing the free-kick. From a deep position the ball played long into the near post, Caragh Dangerfield getting up to head the ball away for Fulbourn. Shannon Chandler bringing the ball on from right back for Thetford into space sends an angled ball in central, Cobb going up to try and head it inside the area can’t quite get hold of it. Megan Chandler coming left with the ball has support with Claughton and Cobb passes exchanged outside the box, Fulbourn’s Adams and Dangerfield with a couple of blocks.

 Thetford growing into the game as Rogers sends the ball to the left into Klimcke played on for Claughton up the line, her cross lifted into the box cut out by Fox. Attacking down the left Thetford open Fulbourn up with a good diagonal ball into Birt, controls to take it on into the area wide of goal, Milner getting back at her, diving in with a risky challenge throwing herself across Birt to take the ball away from her, Birt quick to retrieve it with a 2nd bite, Milner up to block turn it behind for a corner kick.

Fulbourn’s Alex Milner

  The corners just not clicking for Thetford at the moment another played in behind at the near post. Thetford making a change Birt picking up a knock coming off on the right, Megan Haynes coming on over to that side of the pitch. Fulbourn caught short at the back at the right as Russell steals in to take the ball between Fox and Milner, pushing on into the box, releasing her angled shot before anyone can get back at her sends the ball into the side netting. 

Ellie Woodley with Thetford’s Becky Russell

 Woodley closes Klimcke down on the ball on the right, takes it in behind the full back flashing a cross into the top of the area catching, Peeling flat footed can’t get to it, Megan Chandler is around well on the cover however to intercept and clear before Stubbings racing on from the middle can get after the ball. Wells with a shot off of a throw on Fulbourn’s right from all of 25 yards out, dips into the keepers gloves. 

Haynes picking up where Birt left off on the right for Thetford seeing the ball into her feet turning infield to play a ball into the top of the area, cut out by Dangerfield, the rebound dropping to a Thetford attacker 20 yards out the strike rifled in on goal to the left side, Duhy diving at full stretch to make the save turning the ball wide. Claughton looking to put it back in the defence back to get it away from danger.

Fulbourn goalkeeper, Charlotte Duhy

 The hosts applying good pressure as the first half moves into the final 10 minutes, Rogers on for Russell through the middle, tries to pick out Cobb pulling off Anderson, Fox diving in to get a leg on the ball turn it on for Duhy to clear. Thetford with a free-kick won in a central position 30 yards out, driven in on target, Duhy with bodies in front of her saving cleanly the shot straight at her.  

 GOAL! From defence Thetford get on the attack the ball played up to Haynes running into space on the right taking the ball on down the line fires a vicious ball in across the face of the Fulbourn goal, Claughton running in far side getting to it first to turn home from close range to open the scoring. 1-0.

Hannah Claughton congratulated by her teammates as she puts Thetford into the lead.

 GOAL! Thetford getting their noses in front in the 36th minute, quickly race into a 2 goal lead, a diagonal ball landing at Haynes feet out to the right turns inside to release a low pass into the box for Cobb central, rolls her marker to take the ball across her and turn to shoot sending the ball back across the keeper before she can set herself 2-0.

Gabrielle Cobb getting in behind to fire Thetford into a 2 goal lead

 Barely 2 minutes between the goals Thetford with a strong finish to the first half a hammer blow to Fulbourn. Thetford with their tails up confident pressing players on, Rogers linking up with Megan Chandler in midfield the ball out to Claughton on the left wins a throw as she is closed down by Dangerfield. Angled into a crowded near post area, Fulbourn clear behind for a 2nd corner. Taken short this time the new angle seeing a similar effort driven into the near post, turned behind again, the 3rd effort also short charged down before the ball can be launched into the box.

Thetford’s Megan Haynes

 Megan Chandler with the ball at her feet allowed to travel for Thetford deep into the opposition half central plays it on for Cobb top of the area she lets it run on for Haynes breaking on to the by-line, unfortunately can’t keep her cross in. Russell plays the ball on from midfield into Claughton running away down the left, squares her cross low into the box, is slightly behind Cobb as she closes in at the near post, tries to dig the ball out from under her feet, sends it wide of the mark. 

Shannon Chandler

 Closing in on the end of the first half Fulbourn with a throw in the right, Levy-Twoney defending to see the ball behind for a corner. Played up high into the box headed clear to the top of the area Stubbings onto it putting it back out to the right, Woodley crossing, Peeling winning the header sending the ball back out to the right, lifts back in Parker comes running out of her six yard box to grab hold of the ball. Dangerfield defending for Fulbourn as Haynes looks to pick out Cobb through the middle with a diagonal pass inside from the right.

Half-time Thetford Town Ladies 2-0 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

  Two goals late in the first half seeing Thetford getting a grip on the contest as they head into the changing rooms for the half-time interval. Took awhile to get into full flow but got players on well down the flanks and through the middle to support the attack pushed their opponents back line deep and closed them down to force errors. Fulbourn using the space created well created a few opportunities of their own but nothing clear cut know they have work to do if they are to get back into the game 2nd half, both sides merging from the tunnel early keen to get the 2nd half underway.

  Fulbourn making a couple of changes at the break with Hollie Colling and Amber May on the field in place of Chaudhry and Fox. Thetford unchanged to kick off the 2nd period leading 2-0 the ball played back to Peeling in defence, back into the middle for Russell turns it on up top for Cobb to attack, Adams cutting out the pass for Fulbourn. Thetford press get hold of the ball on their right winning a high throw. 

 Haynes with the ball on Thetford’s right her cross cut back into the box, cut out by Adams as she lunges for the ball, recovering quickly to charge down the shot from outside the box as Russell latches onto it. Shannon Chandler on the move again from the back on the right pressing on into the final third sends the ball on into the box for Cobb, Adams there again throwing out a leg to intercept the ball. Fulbourn on the back foot at the start of the 2nd half, Rogers angling a ball into the channel for Claughton, Adams moving in to close her down the ball out for a throw on the right. From that Thetford win a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Fair to say most of Thetford’s corners weren’t on the mark in the first half, but this one is perfect, lifted up into the near post area, to be met by the rising Russell who turns her headed effort in on goal under the bar to extend Thetford’s lead. 3-0. Russell’s first goal for her new club too. 

Becky Russell heading home Thetford’s 3rd goal.

 Thetford powering their way into a 3 goal lead early in the 2nd half to take control of the game, press on from the restart winning the ball back and pouring players on in attack, Megan Chandler out to Haynes on the right, whips an early cross into the area, Colling tracking back for the visitors cutting the ball out. The hosts lively Rogers winning it central sending a cross-field ball into Haynes on the right she looks to play Cobb onto the ball inside the box, Adams defending on her for Fulbourn.

  Shannon Chandler taking the ball forwards from the back into the right channel looking to play in Claughton as she bursts on from the left into a central position, Adams getting across to block as she tries to get hold of the ball. Claughton coming off soon after as Thetford make a double change, Russell giving way too, on come Ruby Lakey and Liv Dunne to join the attack. Dunne straight into the action onto the ball central on for Haynes right side lifts it into the top of the D looking for Cobb, Colling back to get the tackle in for Fulbourn.

Fulbourn’s Hollie Colling

  Amber May seeing the ball into her feet on Fulbourn’s right holds it up well wriggling inside to send the ball on for Crook who looks to sweep it back out to the right as Stubbings tries to run in behind, the Thetford defence standing up well to catch her offside. Thetford making another double switch with Klimcke and Rogers giving way this time, Jess Marriott and Jess Queimado coming on. From a throw on the left Dunne looks to turn inside lay a cross into the D, cut out by Dangerfield, the ball is presented to Queimado 25 yards out, slices her effort away from the right post.

Gabrielle Cobb and Nat Wells fighting for the ball

  Another vital stop at the back from Anderson as Dunne looks to send the ball on for Cobb up top. Fulbourn on the back foot battle to regain the ball Wells lunging in out to the left Woodley up with Stubbings Thetford charging down a couple of efforts through Shannon Chandler and Peeling before the ball falls to Colling 25 yards out her strike driven in wide of the left post. Stubbings seeing the ball into her body hooks it over her shoulder 30 yards out to drop into the box, Woodley the target coming in off the left, the bounce favouring the goal keeper however as Parker takes it cleanly into her gloves. 

  Dunne pro-active on the ball racing on towards the Fulbourn box right side 20 yards out unleashing a shot her effort over onto the roof of the net. Thetford coming on at will, Megan Chandler turning on the ball laying it into the path of Cobb on the right her shot turned wide across the six yard box. Marriott up against May comes away with the ball left side into Queimado central makes a run towards the box tackled by Wells inside the D, the ball coming to Megan Chandler close on Queimado’s left her low shot straight at the keeper, Duhy down to claim it.

Thetford’s Liv Dunne

 Fulbourn get the ball up the pitch Colling on for Woodley up with Crook to the left of the area 20 yards out a powerful strike unleashed, Parker diving at full stretch to push the ball away behind to the left for the corner with an excellent save. The delivery into the near post defended by Peeling. Lakey coming in central looking to get the ball in from Haynes on the right under control inside the D to shoot, Wells in well to close her down. 

 Shannon Chandler winning the ball back on Thetford’s right playing it on for Haynes taking a run up the wing flashes a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, no one there, skipping up off the turf beyond the far post Lakey tries to get her foot up over the ball turn it back in can only find the side netting. Milner moves in to close Haynes down as she advances on the right the deflection off the attacker though sees her escape in behind to get a cross into the area, Dangerfield getting there just before Cobb to clear.

  Stubbings breaking clear up top for Fulbourn looking to chase down a long clearance from the back, Peeling coming across to close her down inside the area turn the ball away for a throw. Anderson defending on Dunne top of the area as Cobb links up with Haynes on the right. Parker with another top draw save for Thetford as Fulbourn get May onto the ball central coming in from the left to get into the box looking to sent a low shot back across the keeper, Parker gets down sharply to get a strong right hand on the ball divert it behind for a corner kick.

Thetford goalkeeper, Mya Parker with another excellent save to keep Fulbourn out

The corner lifted into the crowd at the near post defended out behind for a 2nd corner, the result the same in near post only cleared upfield this time. Closing in on the final 15 minutes of the half, Thetford making another change sending Russel back on to replace Megan Chandler. Wells working hard covering the ground in midfield for Fulbourn more often back to defend gets the ball out to Woodley on the right combining with Crook the ball fired in across the top of the Thetford area, Marriott getting it clear before May can arrive. 

Jess Marriot

 Woodley played in central as she drifts in from the left, lining up a strike from 20 yards out. frustrated as Parker again produces a top class save diving low to her right to push the ball wide past her goal for the corner kick. The delivery clipped into the near post, Dangerfield rises to get her head on the ball but sees it drop wide of the left post. The light starting to fade as the sun drops behind the main stand. Parker out to the top of her area to claim as Stubbings look to run onto the ball sent on from the left, Fulbourn unhappy they didn’t get a free kick in the build-up. Cobb coming off for Thetford late in the game.   

 GOAL! Thetford’s substitutes seeing the hosts energy levels remain high throughout, Dunne seeing the ball into her feet top of the D, wriggles her way in past the defence into the box to release a shot sending the ball low past the keeper into the bottom right corner to guarantee the 3 points, 4-0.

Liv Dunne fires Thetford into a 4 goal lead

 Fulbourn deflated keep trying getting the ball on for Woodley in attack as she carries the ball out to the right side, taking a run at the defence, Marriott getting a foot in to tackle take the ball for Thetford. Queimado winning the ball in midfield for Thetford plying it on for Dunne who has Haynes positioned ahead of her top of the area sending the ball on Haynes lets it run through to Lakey breaking clear on the right, the angle against her gets a looping shot in on target, Duhy back on her line making a comfortable save.

 Chaudhry coming back on for Woodley late in the contest for Fulbourn. Thetford relentless Lakey seeing the ball into her feet left of the D puts it back in central looking for Dunne, the challenge from Wells seeing the ball deflected through to the keeper. Haynes pushed up top with Lakey now inside the box as the cross comes into her from the left slightly behind her races onto Lakey at the far post, can’t get hold of it before being tackled by Dangerfield.

  Fulbourn with a free-kick in the middle sent long for Stubbings on the right, whips a cross into the box, just over may in a central position half cleared, Colling looks to take it on, just can’t get a shot away before being closed down. Thetford counter winning a corner on the right, taken short the ball is stood up before the near post, Duhy claiming it well as Lakey rushes in to try and close her down.

  The clock almost up Wells back to defend on Dunne top of the box as the hosts pile players on. Woodley back on with Wells giving way for the visitors, May fouled out wide on the right, Crook over the set-piece fired in near side headed on across the six yard box Thetford get it out of their box, Stubbings looking to hook the ball back into the mix the ball drifting wide of the left post.

Fulbourn’s Amber May

 One last attack from Thetford the game stretched at the death alot of tired legs out there, the ball fired into the six yard box from the right, Haynes in to meet it from close range throwing herself at the ball, her effort cannoning down off the cross bar dropping to Dunne at the left post looks to scoop a shot in back across goal Duhy instinctively parrying it away falls back to Haynes whose 2nd attempt also kisses the bar before being scrambled clear, the final whistle blowing straight after.

Full time Thetford Town Ladies 4-0 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

 Thetford from a slow start in the 1st half growing into the game as it progressed pressed well in the final third forcing errors, going onto to score 2 late goals to hold the advantage at the break. Those goals a blow for Fulbourn who never really recovered, conceding a 3rd goal from a corner early in the 2nd half Thetford were in control able to ring the changes their substitutes keeping the energy levels and intensity high creating chances, Fulbourn had to work hard at the back, nevertheless found themselves with good opportunities to pull a goal back forcing 3 excellent saves out of Thetford goalkeeper, Mya Parker before Liv Dunne broke through on goal late in the game to score Thetford’s 4th. The win seeing Thetford climb up to 6th with other results seeing Fulbourn slip to the bottom on goal difference, the gap to safety still just 2 points however and with 6 home games to come in the new year will fight till the end. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual it’s a tough decision but I think I have a clear winner. the notes are vital in some cases. Several performances of note, firstly for Fulbourn was a tough day the defence under pressure throughout but worked tirelessly, Jess Anderson, Jasmine Fox, Caragh Dangerfield and Alex Milner all with vital interceptions and tackles. Nat Wells in front of the defence covering the ground to get back to win the ball too. Not an easy one picking out one from Thetford the whole squad playing their part, no doubt pleasing for the management to see all the substitutes come on and keep Thetford pushing on. That said, they have Mya Parker to thank with 3 brilliant saves to maintain the clean sheet. Fran Peeling used the ball well from the back, Shannon Chandler got forwards with the ball overloading the attack. Hannah Rogers winning it central, Hannah Claughton with some great runs on the left opening the scoring, Becky Russell getting on to support the attackers pressure the Fulbourn defence. Gabrielle Cobb keeping the back line occupied. The substitutes all lively Liv Dunne especially, the award goes to another, Megan Haynes, took over from Emily Birt who herself was excellent on the right, used the ball well turning the defence creating a number of openings came close to scoring a goal herself at the death.

 A enjoyable final game of 2025, struggled to get the games in towards the end of the year but glad to finish with a flourish. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams great to catch up with both. Wishing everyone all the best for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Milton Keynes Dons Women

Sunday 7th December

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading down into Suffolk this Sunday to catch some action from FAWNL South East Division One with AFC Sudbury Women hosting Milton Keynes Dons Women.

 Two clubs that unfortunately find themselves at the wrong end of the table a scrapping for points. AFC Sudbury Women in the bottom two with just the the single win and draw looking to finish the year on a positive note as they fight to retain their status in tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid. Milton Keynes Dons Women (MK Dons) just a place above Sudbury in 10th dropping back down into FAWNL Division One South East looking stabilise the ship avoid back to back relegations.

 AFC Sudbury Women going places in Suffolk joining forces with the men’s club with an academy building back up to become one of the leading women’s football clubs in the county, a rapid rise for their young guns winning back to back promotions in tier 6 and tier 5 to win promotion into the FAWNL. This their 3rd season playing tier 4 football surviving their debut season recruited some added experience to bolster the squad to enjoy their 2nd season recording a 7th spot finish last time out.

Have found thing’s much tougher going this time around, the league is ever strengthening and Sudbury are no fools know this are in some ways punching above their weight but with  healthy crop of young talent being developed with a Reserves and Development squad both playing in the Suffolk County leagues are fighting to retain their league status. Injuries haven’t helped, some long term, with key players missing at times, a single point on the board looks to be between themselves, Chesham United and MK Dons to avoid the drop but others could get pulled into the mix a vital win at home to Dulwich Hamlet giving them their 1st 3 points of the season 2 weeks ago. Faith Harrison and Amy-Leigh Abrehart the joint top scorers with 7 goals each, Harrison has now moved on to join Norwich City Women.

 MK Dons Women put alot of work into wining promotion to the FAWNL Southern Premier Division back in 2018, held their own finishing 9th in the seasons either side of the Covid pandemic. Built on that to achieve a 5th place finish in tier 3 in 2023, their highest league finish, backed that up with a 6th placed finish the year after. Thing’s turning sour however the club losing much of their 1st team and management staff to ambitious Real Bedford Women a dispute with the club in which direction they were going partly to blame.

 That saw the development squad having too step in to fill the void a tough ask and a tough season followed with the club picking up just a single point last time around to be relegated from the Southern Premier Division. A tough beginning this time around too, but positive signs the club is back behind the women’s team are playing their home games at Stadium MK, and within a great catchment area for footballing talent have brought in new players to bolster the squad, experienced goalkeeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford amongst the new recruits, have continued to be busy in that front throughout, Sophie Birkett, Paige Ridley, Afrika De Villiers and ex-Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison all coming through the door, Bianca Luttman and Erika Lempek two more useful additions to recently come in. Goals scattered amongst the squad no one has more than 2 to their name so far 7-0 home win to bottom side and local rival Chesham United pulling the club out of the bottom 3 know there’s alot of work to do to stay out of the bottom 2.

 The Elite Travel Stadium the venue to this afternoon’s match, knew it was going to be a wet one so had this fixture pencilled in, both teams finding a little form has become a 6 pointer based on the season so far. The ground building a new 3g pitch beside the carpark leading into the main stadium itself the bar open with the kitchen open inside serving hot food and drink. Plenty of cover before the clubhouse itself with the main seated stand beside, a terraced stand opposite with covered areas behind each goal the rain becoming heavy during the warm-up pre-match dull and overcast above with the sun fighting a lost cause the light poor as the teams walk out onto the pitch.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Megan Frary, Alex Penny, Sophie Jeffery, Sheryce Slater, Beatrice Rogers, Leonnie Bezant, Maisie Goodwin, Georgie Morton, Eva Frazzoni (C), Jessica Allen & Lucy Loomes. Subs – Amy-Leigh Abrehart, Megan Edwards, Kelsey Smith, Jade Barrett, Evie-Mai Harding & Isabella Peachy.

AFC Sudbury Women

Milton Keynes Dons Women starting XI – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Favour Omenazu (C), Alex O’Neill, Bianca Luttman, Paige Ridley, Afrika de Villiers, Amanda Chimbima, Giuseppina Carnevale, Molly Lemon, Erika Lempek & Maddie Pollard. Subs – Amber Tayler, Sophie Birkett, Amelie Sarll, Ruby Bishop-Jones, Sydney Wootton & Ronni Harrison.

MK Dons Women

 The rain easing slightly as the two sides walk out onto the pitch, but isn’t going to stay that way, Sudbury wearing their home colours, yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts to get the game underway kicking off first half, MK Dons lined up opposite in their away colours pink coloured shirts and socks with White shorts, white numbers on the back of the shirts too, not at all easy to read especially under the gloomy conditions, a challenge for sure! Sudbury send the ball forwards probing the MK Dons back line the visitors bringing it away getting straight on the move pushing players forwards.

 MK Dons bright at the start of the contest a diagonal ball into Erika Lempek on the right side as she looks to break forwards, Sophie Jeffery moving in to close her down for the hosts. The visitors closing the ball down in the middle, Arika De Villiers on for Amanda Chimbima carries the ball to the left before being brought down awarded the free-kick. From a deep position on the left the set-piece is fired on into the area through the crowd bouncing on towards goalkeeper, Megan Frary, MK Dons players racing in to chase it down, even as the keeper goes to claim it an outstretched foot prodding the ball past her on into the back of the net but even before the visitors can celebrate the goal is ruled out for a foul on the keeper!

  MK Dons lively in the opening exchanges Sudbury exposed a little at the back Lempek seeing the ball into her feet wide right, drawing the foul from Jessica Allen seeing the visitors winning another free-kick out in a similar position only on the opposite side of the pitch to the previous delivery. Paige Ridley over the ball puts her foot through it lifting a hanging ball into the mix top of the area, rising to head the ball goal wards looming in over the keeper, MK Dons are frustrated yet again as a another goal is disallowed an infringement in the build up to the goal.

 Sudbury finding themselves on the back foot the ball in the back of their net twice in the opening 6 minutes, saved by the referees whistle. Giuseppina Carnevale on the ball for MK Dons coming inside from the left lifting a cross field ball into Lempek bursting down the right wing, Jeffery diving in to make the tackle send the ball out of pay for a throw. Lempek finding space on the right flagged offside as MK Dons regain possession in the middle. Carnevale inside from the left whipping a cross into towards Maddie Pollard central, Maisie Goodwin cutting the pass out for Sudbury the ball loose running into the path of Chimbima 25 yards out, goes to strike the ball, loops up and over, a nick off a Sudbury player spotted a corner kick awarded.

Sudbury midfielder, Maisie Goodwin

  The corner dealt with Sudbury look to try and get a foothold in the game Jeffery on the left bringing the ball on from the back lifting it on for Allen ahead of her giving chase, MK Dons’ captain, Favour Omenazu at full back getting across her to defend for the visitors. The rain falling heavily now. Alex Penny on the right putting the ball on for Lucy Loomes in attack for Sudbury turns the pass on for Allen inside the box, Omenazu tracking across her box with her, getting her body in the way to see the ball out safely for a goal kick.

Amanda Chimbima

  Allen and Omenazu enjoying a good tussle as Sudbury look to get the ball into Allen’s feet on the left, she in turn trying to turn in behind. Molly Lemon passing the ball to Chimbima as MK Dons push on through the middle the probing ball sent out into the right flank for Lempek to attack, Jeffery diving in to see the ball out of play. The hosts not pleased with some of the decisions on the pitch players holding onto each other as Leonnie Bezant and Georgie Morton look to spur Sudbury on through the middle, the free-kick going their way, from halfway the ball lifted up to the top of the area, Chimbima heading clear for the visitors.

  Beatrice Rogers intercepting a diagonal ball at the back for Sudbury carries it forwards into the left wing sending it on for Allen in attack, holds off the challenge from Omenazu as Jeffery bombs on past her on the overlap taking the ball on into the corner wrapping her leg around it to flash a cross into the six yard box, Jamie-Lee Bamford alert first to it grabbing hold of the ball confidently even as Sudbury captain Eva Frazzoni makes a central run to attack.

MK Dons goalkeeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford

  Chimbima driving on through the middle with the ball sends in to Lempek on the right with space to run into checks back inside as Jeffery closes her down firing a cross into the box, Pollard, Lemon and Carnevale far side all racing on towards goal, the cross dissects all three, Sudbury get it away to safety. Midway through the first half and the game has settled down, Sudbury under the cosh early on more even now allowed more time on the ball, Allen seeing the ball into her feet on the left squaring it inside for Loomes, tries to see it onto Frazzoni, Bianca Luttman stretching out a leg to cut the pass out for the visitors.

Molly Lemon

 Lemon seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out back to goal for MK Dons lays it back to Chimbima who plays it to Carnevale on the left inside 30 yards out goes for the strike her effort whistling wide of the near post. Sudbury regaining the ball centrally looking to turn play around quickly Bezant into Frazzoni launches it forwards, Looms her target, Luttman stooping into the header to clear for MK Dons. MK Dons attack with Lemon through the middle has Chimbima up with her, Goodwin snapping in to challenge Lemon. Chimbima getting hold of the loose ball releasing it to the right on for Lempek, a little too long Jeffery can get hold of it for Sudbury, given away however, Lempek racing onto the ball firing a a cross to Pollard at the near post, Rogers their first to clear for the hosts.

Beatrice Rogers

  Sudbury press players on looking to push the MK Dons defence back Morton out to Frazzoni  crossed back inside the Loomes outside the box, Luttman in to clear for MK Dons drops to Jeffery unmarked outside the area central goes to hit it on the volley doesn’t get the connection she was looking for. Jeffery racing up on the left to support Allen gets in a tangle with Omenazu as she looks to get inside her the free-kick awarded as both players go down, the Sudbury bench incensed as the decision goes against them. 

Lucy Loomes

 Sudbury build an attack Bezant on for Goodwin central, has Jeffery up on the left picks her out the ball turned back in central Frazzoni’s touch sending it into Loomes inside the area goes to shoot he target the top right corner, the ball just swerving away from the target wide. Sudbury pressing on over commit as the ball is lost in the middle De Villiers sending it forward for Pollard in attack, Jeffery getting back on her to get a foot on the ball divert it back to her keeper to kick clear.

Sophie Jeffery

  Omenazu getting there ahead of Allen to win the ball out wide as Morton links up with Frazzoni through the middle for Sudbury. Goodwin lunging down to cut the ball out top of the area for Sudbury as Lemon attempts to put Pollard in on goal. MK Dons turn to show their frustration with the officials as Lempek is flagged offside on the right claiming the ball deflected off a defenders leg into her path. Omenazu and Allen continuing their battle the defender pressed up high on Allen nicks the ball to send a hanging cross into the box, claimed well by Frary.

  GOAL! The visitors break the dead lock with 7 minutes left on the clock in the first half attacking down the left, Carnevale up with Lemon and Chimbima exchanging passes before a pass is driven low into Pollard’s feet positioned left of the D, a good touch to turn her marker break into the box giving her a half yard to sent in a strike on the angle past the on rushing keeper before she can set herself on on into the bottom corner 0-1. 

Maddie Pollard opens the scoring for MK Dons

A blow for Sudbury late in the half, look to mount an attack through the middle on for Morton, has Loomes up with her the pass cut out by Luttman for MK Dons turns the ball back to her keeper for Bamford to clear. Goodwin angles a pass into Frazzoni on the right, O’Neill lunging in with the challenge to deny her the cross for the visitors. Sudbury gaining a free-kick wide on the left, Jeffery to send the ball into the area, plenty back for MK Dons, De Villiers heading the ball clear. 

 Certainly no quarter given by either side some robust challenges out there. Loomes giving Ridley a hard time as she goes up to head the ball to safety, Morton tussling with Chimbima, for the most part both sides getting on with it however. Decisions continue to wind both side up the weather remaining awful. Penny taking the ball on right side for Sudbury, Frazzoni ahead of her, Luttman stepping out from the back to halt her run. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the half, Slater dealing with an awkward high ball clipped in from the left by Carnevale. 

 A throw high on the left for the visitors sees a dangerous cross fired in across goal, Chimbima rushing in far post going to attack it can’t get a telling touch the ball wide. Allen left side getting the ball into Jeffery as she rushes on to provide the overlap, Omenazu going with her as they both close down on the left side of the box, fighting each other to get to the ball, Bamford not waiting to see who the winner is comes racing out sliding in to get the ball away from danger. A last gaps free-kick awarded to Sudbury as Lempek fouls Frazzoni on the left the ball crossed into the area long cleared by O’Neill.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-1 Milton Keynes Dons Women

 MK Dons head into the changing rooms a goal to the good at the break, Maddie Pollard scoring late into the first half with a well worked finish to put her side ahead. The visitors making a fast start seeing two goals chalked off in the opening 6 minutes. Both sides feeling aggrieved with some decisions but Sudbury weren’t firing on all cylinders can count themselves lucky to only be a goal down and have work to doo if they are to get back into the game 2nd half. Tense as you’d expect with a game between two of the bottom sides looking for every point they can. Still very much all to play for in the 2nd half.

 Sudbury making a double change at the start of the 2nd half bringing off, Beatrice Rogers at the back and Lucy Loomes up top to be replaced by Jade Barrett and Amy-Leigh Abrehart.

Jade Barrett and Amy-Leigh Abrehart coming on for Sudbury at the start of the 2nd half.

MK Dons unchanged as they line up to kick-off the 2nd half clearly determined to press the ball right from the off…

MK Dons lined up to attack in the 2nd half

 The ball launched forwards into the ball lifted into the left channel, Penny under it to clear for Sudbury the hosts look to get on the attack the ball on up to Morton finds Allen wide her looping cross into the six yard both plucked down well by Bamford rising at her far post. A few positional changes for Sudbury too who like their players to be adept in a number of roles, Abrehart dispossessing the defence on the right, frustrated as the decision goes against her. Undeterred however she intercepts the ball again as a pass into Allen up top almost sees her send Frazzoni through on goal but for a timely tackle from Ridley.

MK Dons defender, Paige Ridley

 

  Luttman cutting out a diagonal ball intended for Allen, plays it forwards into Chimbima who launches a counter attack the ball fed on for Lemon, deflected on through to the keeper. Omenazu is fouled centrally as she looks to carry the ball forwards for MK Dons. Sudbury performing better in the 2nd half taking the game to MK Dons a free-kick won Bezant playing it up to Allen on the right making a run into the box Bamford across diving but can let it go out of play for the goal kick.

 GOAL! 5 minutes gone in the 2nd period Sudbury winning the ball higher getting players further on, Bezant with the ball at her feet central feeding in on for Goodwin before racing past her to get into the box, Goodwin picking out Frazzoni right of the D 20 yards out has Morton ahead of her the ball played into her feet lays it on into the box picking out Bezant who steals in behind the defence to shoot low across the keeper and score 1-1.

Leonnie Bezant equalising for Sudbury

Sudbury back on level terms early in the 2nd half. Great build up play leading to their equaliser. Omenazu putting in a robust challenge on Abrehart top of the D as Morton feeds the ball into her feet. MK Dons come right, De Villiers picking out Lempek her early delivery into the box headed clear by Barrett. Luttman lifting a long ball on into Chimbima breaking into space on the left the angle against her the cross/shot swerving into the side netting, Sudbury amazed as a corner is awarded against them.

Captains, Favour Omenazu and Eva Frazzoni

 The corner swung into the box from the left across the six yard box headed firmly away by Barrett, helped on up the left flank Abrehart looks to race on with the ball, Bamford comes racing out of her box to try and get there first doesn’t do enough as Abrehart pulls away wide looking to get a shot away even as Bamford looks to recover her attempt fired wide at the near post. 

Jade Barrett

 Frazzoni pressing the ball forcing a throw deep in the corner on the right, Morton linking up with Penny off the throw forcing a 2nd, applying good pressure looking to stretch the game. Omenazu winning the ball on the right for MK Dons carries it forwards into space driving on no challenge is encouraged to shoot on the run from outside the area her attempt over wide across goal. O’Neill cutting a long pass up too Allen on the right out as Barrett clears at the back for the hosts. 

Afrika De Villiers

 Both sides playing some probing passes forwards the space the MK Dons midfielders had in the first half gone as they are pushed back with Sudbury pushing players on, Bezant and Goodwin winning it well looking for Morton who can turn on the ball has options ahead of her with Abrehart, Frazzoni and Allen. Luttman throwing out a leg to deny Allen the ball. Bezant playing the ball on through the left channel for Abrehart looking to get into the area the pass a little too strong allowing Bamford to claim.

  When you’re at the bottom of the table it certainly fees like every decision is against you and Sudbury are certainly frustrated. Omenazu is unyielding in defence and a hard player to get past, Abrehart looking to test her. O’Neill sweeping a cross into the area from deep on the left for MK Dons, Barrett up again to win the header for the hosts. Allen going down off the ball after feeling the effects of a coming together as pause in play, the trainer on doesn’t look good needs to come off, Sudbury sending on Megan Edwards.

 Sudbury looking the more likely to score as MK Dons struggle to get the ball up into their attackers 2nd half, Barrett winning the ball flung into the area, getting dark with the overcast sky, good job the floodlights are on. Morton seeing the ball into her feet rolling her marker to send the ball into Bezant wide right her cross put behind.

Georgie Morton

 Morton bringing the ball on in the final 3rd for the hosts laying it on for Abrehart to the right, De Villiers getting back at her to close the ball down for MK Dons. Frazzoni getting a shot away from the left of the D, squeezed through on goal however straight at Bamford who sees it all the way. Lemon getting on with the ball for MK Dons linking up with Pollard she shot intercepted by Slater deflected off the defenders head wide of goal.

Bianca Luttman

  Chimbima hasn’t seen as much of the ball in the 2nd half for MK Dons getting a chance to run at the area, has Lemon up with her, Bezant snapping in with a challenge, backed up by Goodwin the ball cleared. The game stretched Sudbury launch a counter the ball fired on through the middle into Edwards up top, Ridley getting a foot in before she can turn, Abrehart running onto the loose ball shooting from range drops wide of the left post.

  Chimbima coming on with the ball on MK Dons left has De Villiers up with her sending the ball on for her teammate her cross his cleared inside the box by Sudbury’s Slater. De Villiers with a nice drag back on the ball 30 yards out to give herself space to pick a pass has Omenazu pushing on right side the ball rolled into her path 25 yards out sends her strike wide of the right post. 

A free-kick to Sudbury awarded outside the box as Ridley hauled down Abrehart. The attacker picking herself up to take it 20 out goes for goal gets under the ball scooping it high over the target. MK Dons making a change bringing De Villiers off, on comes Amelie Sarll. Sudbury frustrated with thing’s decisions going against them MK Dons scrapping for the ball. Another switch for the visitors with Chimbima giving way for Sophie Birkett in midfield. Goodwin looking to release Frazzoni deep on the right, Luttman lunging in to send the ball out for a throw. From that position the cross is worked into the area the ball knocked down back across goal, dropping for Frazzoni at the near post, before she can get her shot away,, a defender runs across her to snatch the ball clear.

 Goodwin shown a yellow card play brought back after no advantage for MK Dons another frustrating decision for Sudbury an opportunity for MK Dons to push players up into an attacking position as the ball comes into the area from deep on the left curled across to the far post an MK Dons attacker running onto the ball shoots, Frary with an instinctive save with her leg as she goes to ground the ball loose rolling to her right dives throwing out an arm to claim it even as Omenazu races in to strike it goal wards, the referee blowing up it won’t count the keeper had enough of the ball, hurt in the process play stopped so she can receive treatment. 

 Is up on her feet okay as the game moves into the final 5 minutes Morton taking the ball on for Sudbury fed on for Edwards up top pressing the centre back to play the ball back to her keeper the clearance falling straight to Abrehart 30 yards out lining up the shot her attempt narrowly wide of the right post. Sudbury pushing a late goal themselves Edwards upended b Omenazu. The free-kick cleared by Lemon. Omenazu bringing the ball on right her diagonal pass won by Slater inside her D, tries to get it up to Abrehart quickly as she looks to turn the defence, Ridley keeping her off the ball. 

Sudbury goalkeeper, Megan Frary

 MK Dons defence under pressure late in the game. Luttman with a good interception as Edwards looks for Frazzoni on the right. Morton tries to pick out Edwards left channel run, Omenazu stretching out a leg to win the ball back. Sudbury winning a corner out on the right curled into the six yard box, Omenazu up to head the ball away for the visitors. MK Dons counter, up to Lempek through the middle tries too send the ball on for Pollard running in behind, Frary out of her area to clear the ball. 

Erika Lempek

Lempek out on the left lifting a ball in central, the shot blocked by a defender rebounding up to strike Barrett on the back off the head, goes down, the loose ball sliced wide before player is stopped so she can receive treatment. 3 minutes left little tie for either side to try and claim a winning goal, scrappy both sides complaining Morton gets hold of the ball on the right for Sudbury sent on up the line for Abrehart controls on the by-line looks to jink her way past Luttman into the box the defender stays big blocks the attacker, the free-kick awarded just outside the area. The dead ball flashed in across goal, Bamford up amongst bodies to punch it out of her area retrieved high on the left, floated back into the box, threatening to drop under the bar awkward for Bamford stretching for it doesn’t get hold of it as it bounces down in front of goal but is quick to snatch it back into her gloves before another can pounce.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 1-1 Milton Keynes Dons Women

 The final whistle blows and both sides have to settle for a share of the points, Sudbury remain in the bottom 2, 3 points off safety, not closing the gap on MK Dons but other results keep others in range. A tale of two halves, the first belonging to MK Dons got on the front foot with some strong midfield runs seeing two early goals disallowed, before taking the lead late in the half. Sudbury needing to change things didn’t perform in the first 45 lucky to only be a goal down, the changes worked the hosts much improved 2nd half a well worked goal to equalise pushed hard for a 2nd while MK Dons too came close to snatching it at the end, both will feel frustrated with decisions but on the balance of play a point each a fair outcome. 4 points from their last 3 league games to end 2025 is something positive to build on for Sudbury going into the new year. MK Dons have one more game to play in 2025 a difficult game away to QPR but after a difficult period for the club they may at last be turning a corner.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, is another tough one a few contenders on both sides. A few performances to mention. Firstly for MK Dons, Amanda Chimbima made several driving runs on the ball especially first half to keep her side on the front foot bringing others onto play. Bianca Luttman made some vital interceptions at the back, Erika Lempek provided a good option out wide in attack, captain, Favour Omenazu was strong in her tackling hard to shake off and frustrated her opponents. For Sudbury, Leonnie Bezant won the ball well and got on well to score the crucial equaliser. Maisie Goodwin too with some vital tackling in front of the defence. Captain Eva Frazzoni covered the ground getting into some useful positions used the ball well. Jade Barrett came into the back line and won everything launched into the box, Amy-Leigh Abrehart took the game to her opponents keeping Sudbury on the front foot. The award goes to Georgie Morton found some good pockets of space throughout linking up with the attack coming into her own 2nd half winning the ball high keeping it and releasing those ahead of her.

 Good to catch up with both clubs, especially MK Dons haven’t seen them since the loss of their previous side and good to see them recovering and in a healthy shape. The league is as competitive as any be it top or bottom. My thanks for all the assistance today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – KLSC FC Women v Aylsham FC Women

Sunday 30th November

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 Well I certainly hadn’t intended to miss 3 weeks of the season, but that’s the way it goes sometimes. Various reasons, but back at it now and keen to get back into the action as we head into the final few weekends of 2025. The football coming from Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday with a trip to King’s Lynn to watch KLSC FC Women take on Aylsham FC Women.

 A strong line up once again in Norfolk Women’s Division One, Bungay Town Ladies doing the double last season, will again be the team to beat this season, albeit under a different name as the women’s squad move to reform, Lowestoft Town Ladies. Making a 100% start to their league campaign with 5 wins from 5 so far. Cup competitions and poor weather affecting the first half of the season seeing several clubs playing just 4 or 5 matches so far in the league, teams still jostling for position, Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves leading the pack with Costessey Sports Ladies hot on their heels in 2nd.

 Aylsham FC Women with a strong end to last season, powering their way up the table to clinch runners-up spot behind Bungay. Narrowly beaten by Bungay too in the League Cup final, aiming to use that to establish themselves as one of the leading sides in the county. A good start to the league this time around too, 3 wins from 3 to start the season collecting 36 points from a possible 36 in their last 12 games over both seasons that run coming to an end with a 3-1 home loss to Mulbarton Wanderers Reserves last weekend.

 Aylsham are also through the last eight of both the League and County Cups. Taking on UEA FC Women in their county cup quarter final will guarantee an NWGFL side into the last 4 of the competition. A few changes within the squad to deal with losing some experience, bringing in some youthful talent. Have lost goalkeeper, Mya Parker to RWFL side Thetford Town Ladies, new recruit Fawnee Ansbro doing well in goal, with another new signing Tegan Lusher returning from an injury also a goalkeeper. Attacker, Marseilles Will joining Aylsham from Bungay. Sophie George (formerly Lubbock) joint top scorer along side Shelley Woods still going strong on 5 goals each.  

 KLSC (King’s Lynn Soccer Club) FC Women, now the only women’s side featuring for the town with the sad demise of King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Have established themselves firmly within the women’s football scene in their short history. Reaching the League Plate final last season losing out to Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves. Are like Aylsham through to the last eight of this season’s League Cup. Just missing out on a spot in the last eight of the county cup however beating by UEA FC Women on penalties after drawing 2-2.

  A club with a strong youth section the women’s side seeing the benefits of that with players such as midfielders Lana Sturgeon and Bonnie Parsons bursting onto the scene last season recording some impressive displays. Continue to bring youth players into the women’s squad with a god balance of youth and experience within the group. Will look to build on last season’s strong mid-table finish, have found results tough so far in the league this campaign however with 1 win from 4 played so far but know they are capable of beating anyone on their day as they have proven on several occasions. 3 players currently sharing the top scorer position with Viktorija Burkauskaite, Tayla Miles and Lana Sturgeon all on 4 each.

 The playing fields at Kings Way on Edward Benefer Road the venue for today’s match home to all KLSC’s matches, situated to the northern end of King’s Lynn, boasting several grass pitches, beyond the changing rooms and carpark. A youth game taking place on an adjoining pitch the women’s match on the furthest pitch, holding up well despite another day of heavy rain on the Saturday. None overnight however and with a little power left in the sun as we end November the game on. The sun setting behind the supporters on one side of the pitch with the dugouts opposite. Dry if a little muddy underfoot, good to get the camera and notepad back out.

KLSC FC Women starting XI – Stella Astle, Rhian Ellis, Geovanna Salles, Elizabet Puckova (C), Amy Cropley, Lana Sturgeon, Bonnie Parsons, Lucy Clarke, Trinity Tokaji, Holly Pitcher & Lauren Moyse. Subs – Viktorija Burkauskaite & Skye Ironside.

KLSC FC Women

 Aylsham FC Women starting XI – Fawnee Ansbro, Cayla Brow, Ellie Snowling, Sophie Buckley, Charlotte Crane, Carly Allum, Rachel Bussey, Olivia Baker, Marseilles Will, Shelley Woods (C) & Sophie George. Subs – Billie Myall.

Aylsham FC Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides a little short of players today due to work and other commitments, KLSC with 2 on the bench, Aylsham with just the one. Shelley Woods captaining Aylsham this afternoon with Sophie-Jayne O’Connor absent. Elizabet Puckova captaining KLSC. 

Captains, Elizabet Puckova and Shelley Woods with today’s match official Christian Grove.

 A switch of ends at the start the low sun across the pitch as too directly affecting one end still likely to pose some issues with high diagonal balls. KLSC to get the match underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and black vertical stripped shirts with black shorts and red socks with black piping. Aylsham lined up opposite wearing orange coloured shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to the defence, Aylsham push up right from the start condensing play a hastily cleared ball out to the right for Trinity Tokaji, headed clear by Aylsham full back, Ellie Snowling.

  The ball toing and froing between the midfield in the early moments of the contest KLSC moving in to close Aylsham down, Bonnie Parsons squeezing the ball out to the right, flashed back in central top of the area intercepted by Charlotte Crane at the back for the visitors. Lively as Rachel Bussey takes the ball down Aylsham’s right tackled by Rhian Ellis the ball out for a throw, Cayla Brown up from full back to take it dropped into Marseilles Will edge of the box, challenged by KLSC’s Lucy Clarke, Brown latching onto the cross, firing a ball in central inside the six yard box, Sophie George running into meet it from the left side stabbing her attempt narrowly wide of the right post.

  Lana Sturgeon running onto a Parsons pass on the right driving up the wing, Snowling stretching out a leg to take the ball away for a throw in. The hosts getting players on well, Geovanna Salles up with Tokaji and Lauren Moyse on the right flank, looking to force their way in behind the visiting defence, Sophie Buckley and Carly Allum both with blocking tackles to halt their progress. Amy Cropley intercepting the ball at the back for KLSC, her long pass into the right channel just a little too strong for attacker, Holly Pitcher to run onto. 

  KLSC continue to apply pressure to Aylsham inside their opponents half making it difficult for the visitors to find a way out, Pitcher stealing onto the ball 30 yards out powering on into the right channel, Snowling getting back to close her down. Parsons upended as she takes hold of the ball in the middle, captain Elizabet Puckova over the set-piece 35 yards out doesn’t get the connection she wanted on the ball pulling it wide past the near post. Parsons proving a handful for Aylsham snatching hold of the ball, looking constantly to feed the ball into the channels.

Aylsham’s Ellie Snowling with KLSC’s, Amy Cropley

 The hosts with a throw high on the left, Clarke crossing the ball in central, headed clear by Crane for Aylsham who look to counter on the left, George taking it on Salles slowing her progress before Olivia Baker looks to take over for the visitors closed down by Cropley. George given the ball for Aylsham out again on the left wing driving forwards her cross cut out diverted away for a throw in. Lifted on into the top of the area cleared by Puckova, KLSC’s attempted counter attack, snuffed out by Buckley as Moyse drives on with the ball at her feet.

  Aylsham struggling to get the final pass right KLSC risking a high line at times allowing their midfield to close the ball down. KLSC turn play around the ball given to Moyse’s feet as she powers her way n up the right cutting a shot in across goal, Brown back for Aylsham clearing it back out to the right, Moyse latching onto it laying it into Parsons running in top of the area her low shot in on target claimed low by goalkeeper, Fawnee Ansbro.

Aylsham’s Cayla Brown

 Bussey taking the ball on from Baker on the right for Aylsham whipping an early cross into the top of the D, George slightly behind the ball, getting hold of it looking to turn and shoot, Salles snapping in with the tackle to take away the opportunity for KLSC. Tokaji playing the ball on for Pitcher right flank for the hosts pushing forwards is stopped by Aylsham’s Buckley.

Aylsham’s Sophie George

Marseilles Will on the attack for Aylsham

 GOAL! KLSC play the ball out for a throw at the back out on the right, dropped into the middle, Will does well to get hold of the ball keep possession, closed down the ball pops up off her over the top with captain Shelley Woods bursting in behind the KLSC defence caught static half expecting a flag doesn’t come Woods in the clear breaking into the box, using her experience to commit the keeper, Astle diving, Woods taking the ball around her the angle acute six yards out makes no mistake rolling the ball into the empty net to fire the visitors into the lead 0-1. 

Aylsham captain, Shelley Woods breaking through into the box to round the keeper and opening the scoring for Aylsham

  Aylsham with the lead just over 20 minutes into the match. KLSC attack looking for an immediate response Moyse attacking on the ball into the right wing shooting from the angle her effort over the bar. Salles combining with Tokaji on the right for KLSC the cross into the box cleared by Crane for the visitors. Clarke seeing a cross field pass from Sturgeon down well out on the left to get inside Brown push forwards, Crane quick to get across on the cover to snap in clear the ball for a throw.

Aylsham centre back, Charlotte Crane

  George taking the ball on down the left for Aylsham, pushing into the box holding off Salles the defender getting back at her to deflect her shot away behind for a corner kick. Curled into a tightly packed six yard box, George with a glancing header taking a deflection off a defender on it’s way over for another corner kick. Again curled in central George again with the header knocking the ball down across goal to the far post KLSC getting it clear to the right, Allum moving in quickly to regain possession edge of the area from the angle lifting her cross/shot over the bar. Viktorija Burkauskaite coming on for KLSC to replace Pitcher.

 GOAL! KLSC get themselves back on level terms pressing the ball high winning a throw on the right the ball helped on into the box by Salles Moyse rushing in to attack it near post getting a foot up to lift the ball past the keeper to score the equalising goal 1-1.

Lauren Moyes celebrates as she gets KLSC back on level terms

  Aylsham start an attack on the left Snowling sending the ball on for George up the wing, Burkauskaite closing her down to force the ball out for a throw in. Snowling’s throw’s on the left causing the KLSC back line a few issues as Aylsham push players on the ball dropped into the top of the area left of the D, Woods, Baker and Bussey all clustered together the latter unleashing a shot on the angle driven in low to the near post, Astle with an acrobatic dive to her right down well to save pushed the ball wide for a corner kick.

KLSC goalkeeper, Stella Astle

   Another vicious delivery from the Aylsham corner into the six yard box Astle attempting to come through bodies to claim it near post, doesn’t get hold of it drops to the floor, George with the poke out with her boot to deflect the ball across goal, cleared at the far post by Ellis. A lively contest both sides getting on with thing’s the game rarely paused. Clarke tracking back to defend for KLSC as Bussey gets onto a diagonal ball from Baker on the right.

KLSC’s, Lucy Clarke

 George is brought down on the left presenting Aylsham with the free-kick, launched long into the area, Astle is fouled as she comes to collect the ball. Aylsham making a change bringing Baker off up top, Australian, Billie Myall coming on to lead the attack. Salles pushing up on the right linking up with Moyse for KLSC, the ball inside to her, Buckley going in to make the challenge Moyse’s shot deflected off the defender on for Ansbro to claim.

  Burkauskaite the last defender with a vital tackle on Myall as she looks to break into the box off of a throw on the left. Moyse with some strong running on the ball whenever KLSC launch a counter taking the ball on right side smashes a shot in on the angle striking the base of the near post. Parsons on the move with the ball through the middle for KLSC Sturgeon up with her the ball into into clipped out to the left for Clarke, Brown nipping back at her to defend for Aylsham.

Viktorija Burkauskaite

  Allum launching a diagonal ball forwards for Aylsham intended for Myall pulling away to the left inside the area, Burkauskaite winning it instead for KLSC out for a corner kick. Another dangerous corner form the left for Aylsham swung into the middle, Woods on the penalty spot with the drilled header in on goal dropping low cleared off the line by Ellis. KLSC straight on the counter.

KLSC’s, Rhian Ellis

 Winning a throw up on the left, KLSC do everything but score in their next attack the ball lifted into the area not cleared by Aylsham, Moyse grabbing hold of it on the left into the six yard box cutting her shot past the advancing keeper across goal, her effort coming back off the far post, Tokaji closing down on the follow-up at the far post sees the ball come at her quickly tries to adjust divert the ball back inside the post but throws her arms up in dismay as the ball instead runs wide for the goal-kick. 

 GOAL! KLSC keeping Aylsham pushed back winning a throw high on the right, lifted on for Moyse to turn take a run into the box, tries to ride the tackle as a defender throws out a leg but can’t stay on her feet, referee Christian Grove pointing to the spot Penalty! Sturgeon placing the ball on the spot to take the spot kick for KLSC, steps up before driving the ball low into the bottom left corner across the keeper to fire the hosts into the lead 2-1.

Lana Sturgeon firing KLSC into the lead from the penalty spot

  Last into the 1st half, Aylsham their own worst enemy at times giving the ball away, KLSC straight on the attack right side a shot driven in low across goal on the angle on Ansbro quickly does well o make the sharp save with her legs. The hosts lively Sturgeon out to Salles right on for Moyse her angled strike has plenty of pace behind it racing wide of the far post. Aylsham winning a free-kick on halfway in the closing moments o the half the delivery into the top of the area not dealt with by the KLSC defence sees George latch onto it inside the area left of goa her low shot lacking power held by Astle low at her near post.

Half-time KLSC FC Women 2-1 Aylsham FC Women

An intriguing 1st half’s play, non stop action both sides snapping in to win the ball in the middle, KLSC getting the ball into their attackers well putting the Aylsham back line under pressure, the visitors not helping themselves giving the ball away inviting the counter both side looking to use the flanks, Aylsham finding the break through midway through the 2nd half captain Shelley Woods breaking clear in behind from midfield to open the scoring. KLSC came back well creating chances Lauren Moyse getting the equalising goal before winning the penalty to see Lana Sturgeon fire her side into the lead. Both keepers called into action. Aylsham looking a threat from corners seeing one effort cleared off the line. The game beautifully poised for the 2nd half could go either way.

  A short turn around with both sides staying out on the pitch for their half time team talks. Aylsham unchanged for the 2nd half, KLSC making a change with Skye Ironside on replacing Tokaji. The sun dropping fast now low casting long shadows across the pitch. Decidedly colder too! Aylsham to get the 2nd half underway the ball back into Buckley in defence lifted on up into the middle, Sturgeon pro-active rushing in to intercept it for KLSC.

 Ironside taking the ball on from Cropley carrying it forwards into the right channel, attempts to pick out Salles inside the box, Buckley heading it clear for Aylsham. Parsons nipping in to snatch the ball for the hosts finds Ironside free on the right, Snowling coming to close her down the ball deflected off Ironside for the throw. 

KLSC’s, Skye Ironside

 Both teams busy at the start of the half, Aylsham looking to press the ball higher get after the KLSC defence, Buckley intercepting a clearance launching the ball on into the area, Myall looking to chase it down can’t get there before the keeper snatches it up into her gloves. Aylsham closing the ball down 2nd half Allum out to Bussey right her cross in to Myall running in near post turns her shot wide across goal, George under challenge looking to attack it far post turned away instead for a throw in. 

 GOAL! Chaos inside the box from the throw in sent on into the six yard box Woods in front of the keeper diving in Astle blocking, looking to get back on her feet as George looks to dive in on the loose ball somewhere in the melee the referee sees an infringement and points to the spot Aylsham’s turn to win the Penalty. Woods to take the penalty a chance for fire Aylsham back on level terms early in the 2nd half makes no mistake drilling the ball hard and straight to the keepers left 2-2.

Shelley Woods running in to strike the penalty to make it 2-2 for Aylsham

  Moyse collides with Buckley as she looks to break in behind on the left channel, the defender getting the decision. Moyse taking a knock but slowly back to her feet. Crane clearing at the back for Aylsham as Sturgeon looks to play a threaded pass on from midfield. Sturgeon with several powerful midfield runs for KLSC taking the ball on through the middle lays it forwards for Salles breaking into the box, Buckley with her though under pressure to close to dive in with the challenge gets her foot around the ball in an attempt to clear instead strikes it against Salles the rebound taking it wide past the right post. 

Geovanna Salles with Sophie George

  Parsons on for Moyse in attack into the box right of goal cuts it back central for Salles, Crane in to close her down, Buckley clears. Myall seeing the ball into her feet off Woods turning to send the ball long into the right wing for Bussey getting forwards. Ellis closing her down to regain possession for KLSC. The game opening up as both sides look to commit players forwards a big pitch players keeping wide, Puckova cutting a diagonal ball out at the back for the hosts as Brown fires it in from the right.

Aylsham’s Billie Myall

  KLSC winning their first corner of the 2nd half on the right side, a teasing ball lifted into the near post, Burkauskaite rising under challenge to get her head on the ball, Ansbro throwing up a hand to try and save the ball over no touch however as a goal-kick as given. 

Lana Sturgeon

 Parsons can’t quite get the ball down under control to of the D as KLSC launch it into her from the left. Buckley snatching out a foot to steal it back. KLSC making a change up top, Moyse coming off, Pitcher back into the action. An intense game you can’t help feel the next goal wins the contest and there’s still half an hour to play. Crane steps in to halt the run of Clarke as she turns inside with the ball from the left 20 yards out.

  Scrappy in the middle the ball seeing no respite, Parsons fouled a free-kick to KLSC on halfway, launched up to the top of the area half cleared falls to Parsons free in space 25 yards out lines up the shot her effort through on goal but straight at the keeper, Ansbro holding onto the ball. KLSC looking to get after the visitors now after Aylsham’s positive start to the 2nd half. Pitcher onside as the ball comes into her inside the box from the left, Snowling just getting there ahead of her caught in two minds the keeper too close for the back pass snatches it away in the nick of time.

  Myall looking to hold the ball up in attack for Aylsham fouled on the halfway line. Crane over the set-piece launched out to the right with Bussey looking to get forwards Ellis defending for the hosts. The visitors pressing on the right again winning the free-kick inside the KLSC half.

Aylsham’s Carly Allum

 GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half, Crane over the set-piece once again sends a fearsome cross into the box striking a defender on it’s way through to Myall central but before she can get a shot away the referee blows up once again pointing to the spot, the ball handled by the defender, Penalty! Aylsham with another spot-kick, Woods to take on a hat-trick now. Goes for power again going the opposite side this time Astle getting down but can’t reach it as it is rammed home into the bottom left corner 2-3!

Shelley Woods with her 2nd penalty of the game completing her hat-trick firing Aylsham back into the lead

Aylsham coming back from a 2-1 deficit at the break to take a 3-2 lead in the 68th minute. The sun really low now dropping behind the tree line with the river Ouse beyond. KLSC’s Sturgeon nipping in to knick the ball 25 yards out running at the box, Buckley in well to close her down the ball out for a throw.

The sun setting low behind the supporters watching the match

A change for KLSC falling behind bring Ironside off on the right with Tokaji coming back on. The hosts winning a free-kick on halfway launched up to the top of the area, headed clear by Aylsham’s Crane. KLSC with a strong reply to falling behind Sturgeon gathering the ball into her feet outside the box taking the ball left forced on to the by-line cuts the ball back superbly into the top of the six yard box nearly picking out Salles, but for the outstretched leg of Buckley diverting the ball away behind for a corner kick.

Aylsham defender, Sophie Buckley

  Moyse back into the action for KLSC as they put 3 in attack the game is wide open Woods has it into her feet as the visitors look to turn play around plays the ball forwards into the box for Will to attack left of goal, Cropley tracking back with her preventing the shot getting a vital touch to get the ball into her keeper to clear. George out on the left brings a cross-field past down well with a deft touch off her foot, looks to break forwards, Burkauskaite’s touch not so deft as she dives in to dispossess her the ball out for a throw. 

KLFC defender, Amy Cropley

 The throw into the top of the area, more appeals for hand ball, against Burkauskaite, the referee giving the decision, outside the box however left of the D. Woods over the free-kick loops a shot in on goal aiming for the top right corner, Astle getting up well to tip the ball over to save for a corner kick. Attacked at the near post Astle up beyond to punch the ball away to safety. 

 Moving into the final 10 minutes of the 2nd half, Aylsham sending Baker back on to replace Myall in attack. Moyse getting onto the ball left side driving on for KLSC, Brown staying with staying on her shoulder doing enough the ball played off Moyse behind for a goal-kick. Salles racing clear with the ball out on the wing her cross cut back into Pitcher top of the D her strike charged down by Buckley for Aylsham.

  Snowling coming off for Aylsham late on, Myall back into the action going into the vacant left back role. Parsons in to take the ball on halfway threads it through to Moyse breaking in behind the assistant flag going up overruled by the referee, Moyse bearing down on the box, Buckley diving in with the last ditch tackle excellent to deny Moyse the shot the ball away to the right. 

KLSC midfielder, Bonnie Parsons

KLSC pushing players on late on looking for an equaliser, Aylsham clear at the back Allum up to Baker sends it on into the box for George left of goal can’t get the ball out from under her feet charging in to get a clean shot away Astle going to ground claiming the ball low inside her six yard box.

  Aylsham having taken the lead struggling to take control of the game in the closing minutes, Sturgeon a bane rushing in on the ball is fouled by Allum on the left not sure if a card is shown, the free-kick awarded either way, the delivery knocked on into the box from the top of the area claimed low by Ansbro at her near post. KLSC pressing hard late on Parsons intercepting inside the Aylsham half knocked on for Sturgeon, Crane fouling her the free-kick awarded in a dangerous position 30 yards out. Cropley over the ball clipped in long on goal, Ansbro right behind it catching it into her mid-riff. 

 Astle on hand with a vital double save to deny Aylsham a 4th goal as we move into stoppage time Baker on the turn sending the ball into George in the box coming in from the left bearing down on the six yard box sliding in on the ball, Astle down low to make the blocking save, the rebound popping back to George on the ground tries to adjust throwing a leg out to try and stab it wide of the keeper. Astle lunging to her left to get her arm behind the ball pulling it into her body.

  End to end action the Aylsham defence under pressure late in the game pushed back Buckley lunging in to deny Moyse inside the box, quick to recover as Salles tries to keep the attack alive. Myall bringing the ball clear left for Aylsham with a long diagonal ball up to Bussey right side, tackled by Ellis. Time almost up the light almost gone Parsons gets on the move with the ball central pushing for the box, Crane stepping out of the back line to close her down.

Full time KLSC FC Women 2-3 Aylsham FC Women

 The final whistle blows and Aylsham hold on to claim the 3 points. I did say the next goal wins it at 2-2 but I certainly didn’t expect as intense a finish to the match. Aylsham not taking their chance to get control of the game having gotten back into the lead midway through the 2nd half. Struggled to keep hold of the ball as KLSC pushed them hard for a reply, but for some crucial last ditch defending may well have been a different story but sometimes you have to win ugly back to winning ways keeping them 5th pushing the sides above. KLSC can feel hard done by a 3-2 win in their favour could just a easily been the result however they leave empty handed, but if anyone thinks they’re coming to the Kings Way playing fields for an easy game they’re in for a rude awakening. 

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 and certainly hard to pick out a single individual, with two neck and neck throughout the notes. But pick one I will a few to mention first of course. For KLSC, Lana Sturgeon was outstanding in the middle closing the ball down, lively pro-active throughout with several strong runs on the ball, clos behind, Bonnie Parsons the pair linked up well kept KLSC on the front foot for much of the contest nipping in fast to win the ball getting it up to the attackers. Lauren Moyse strong up top powerful on the ball hard to shake off scoring and winning the penalty. Stella Astle win a couple of vital saves to keep her side in it till the end. For Aylsham, Shelley Woods was composed throughout using the ball well, opening the scoring going on to score her hat-trick from the spot. Piking a defender after a game like this might be controversial but nevertheless and despite some of the pressure being of their own making the contribution to the game can’t be ignored, Charlotte Crane was well paced to make some crucial interceptions throughout the contest and read the game well stepping up when needed. The award however goes to Sophie Buckley, KLSC were nearly through on goal on a few occasions late in the 2nd half and without her well timed and composed defending in a pressure situation the score-line might have been very different. 

 It feels good to be back after a 3 weekend hiatus, a lively contest from Norfolk to rekindle things. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today too as always is much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Royston Town Women v Watford Ladies Development

Sunday 2nd November

ERWFL Premier Division

 A trip to Hertfordshire this Sunday to take in a game from the ERWFL Premier Division. Incredibly tight in the league with just 6 points separating the top 10 sides, Royston Town Women currently 5th play host to 2nd placed Watford Ladies Development.

 The ERWFL Premier Division always highly competitive representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. 12 sides competing for promotion to the FAWNL above. Stevenage FC Women having made a strong investment in their squad this season leading the way currently unbeaten gunning for the title, but can’t afford to let their foot of the pedal with the chasing park right on their tail, tight just 6 points between them and current 10th placed side Wroxham Women.

 Royston Town Women themselves have added to their squad this season following a strong campaign last time out that saw the Hertfordshire side, leading the way for much of the season, eventually overhauled by Luton Town Ladies, finished 3rd while retaining the Hertfordshire County Cup following their 1st ever win the competition the season before. Have been busy recruiting new faces to add to the squad while re-establishing their Development side, playing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One.

 Kiaya Payne, Hannah Bodily and Bella Simmons the latest trio to join Royston. Payne joining from today’s opponents Watford Ladies Development. Hannah Bodily joining from local rivals Stevenage after a couple of season’s was regularly a top performer playing in midfield. Bella Simmons joins on a dual registration from FAWNL side Cambridge United WFC and has 4 goals already from her 5 appearances. Emma Slater always amongst the goals for Royston leading the way this time around too, finding the back of the net for 11 goals. With Jordanne Sillitoe and Laura Mills both on 8 goals apiece.

 Watford Ladies Development making the move across to the ERWFL a couple of season’s ago as the league pushed to reach it’s full potential of having 36 clubs playing across it’s 3 Division’s, won the Division One South title in their debut season in the East to win promotion to the Premier Division, retaining that status last season. Ali Abdulkadir taking over as first team manager this season a strong start seeing them win 3 out of their 4 opening matches propelling them into 2nd spot in the table a mixed bag of results since seeing them firmly in the cluster of side sides chasing leaders Stevenage.

 An independent women’s football club have recently joined forces with Watford FC Women playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, seeing the two leading women’s football clubs in Watford combine to provide a strong pathway for girls and women’s football in the Watford area, with close to 30 youth teams, have a Development side playing in the Beds and Herts women’s football league. Jada Deane top scorer with 6 goals to her name. Rebecca Lovelace and Olivia Oshodi both on 5 goals. With Madeleine Pollard and Kaya Bamber on 4 each.

 Royston Town FC’s Garden Walk stadium the venue for todays match, the sloping grass pitch situated in a residential area tucked away behind houses. Royston work hard to promote their women’s team an enhance the matchday experience. The clubhouse and bar open along with a food van serving hot and cold drinks. Have a merchandise stand too, selling amongst other thing’s some very stylish trading cards featuring the women’s team’s players and staff. Into November still relatively mild with the sun bright over the stadium, a potential problem at the lower end of the ground, decidedly chilly in the shade however, with a variety of stands seated and terraced dotted about the ground.

Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Dilly Haslehurst, Kiaya Payne, Jodie Donley, Amy Houghton (C). Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Ri Badal, Amy Reed, Laura Mills & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Tilly Want, Emma Slater, Stacey Roper, Eloise Cattini & Ailsa Heal.

Royston Town Women

 Watford Ladies Development starting XI – Shannon Swallow, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads, Georgia Elmer-Roads, Amelie Elliott, Aliyah Cristal Anderson, Phoebe Brown, Ella Parker, Jessica Wright, Rebecca Lovelace (C), Isla Bellamy & Jada-Chey’ah Graham. Subs – Sophie Adamou & Sofia Jones-Ghartouchent.

Watford Ladies Development

A late change in the starting line-up for Royston with, Dilly Haslehurst coming in for Emma Slater who drops to the bench. 5 on the bench for Royston, Watford naming just the two substitute’s, it’s the visitors to have the kick-off in the 1st half attacking down the slope, wearing red and yellow vertical striped shirts with red shorts and red and yellow socks. Royston wearing their home strip, white shirts and socks with black shorts. 

Captains, Rebecca Lovelace and Amy Houghton with today’s match officials

 The ball played back into midfield lifted long through the middle comfortably dealt with by the Royston defence, coming to Sofia Castiglione in midfield looks to thread a ball through into the right channel for Ri Badal to attack, Watford goalkeeper, Shannon Swallow sharp out to the edge of her box to grab the ball up into her gloves. Watford build on the left the ball fed on for Jada Chey’ah Graham, pushes down wing the ball played into the box, Kyana Payne across on the cover from left back to intercept and clear for the hosts.

  Both sides probing in the early exchanges snapping in to try and steal the ball in midfield a few free-kicks given away as a result. Royston with a set-piece on halfway the ball launched up to the top of the area, Amelie Elliott defending for Watford, fouled in the process winning the free-kick. Amy Reed showing attacking intent for Royston pushed up on the left comes inside linking up with Castiglione, bombing on looking for the return pass into the channel, Swallow is again alert to the threat rushing out to the top of her box to claim the ball.

Shannon Swallow coming to collect the ball for Watford

  The visitors look to mount a rapid counter attack, captain, Rebecca Lovelace carrying the ball on through the middle, Jodie Donley closing her down at the back to clear the ball out for a throw. Both sides keen to get the ball into the channels, Royston winning the ball back in the middle, Hannah Bodily combining with Castiglione taking the ball on threaded on for Reed left side, Elliott getting in between her and the ball to see it back to her keeper to clear.

 Royston snapping in to win the ball pushing players on Reed and Badal looking to join Jordanne Sillitoe and Laura Mills in attack. Bodily with Castiglione through the middle again advancing with the ball slid into Reed high on the left, cuts it back into Castiglione 25 yards out left side outside the box, lines up a shot on goal, curled wide past the far post. 

 The visitors looking to get the ball into their attackers quickly, Graham and Isla Bellamy right side pushing on with Lovelace making some surging runs through the middle, Amy Houghton captaining Royston with a vital interception at the back as her defence pushes up. Graham bringing the ball on through the middle sending it out to the right for Bellamy, does well to keep it in play before taking it down the wing  Payne getting back at her, Bellamy charging down her attempt to clear the ball and delivers a cross into the top of the D, met by Phoebe Brown leaning into her shot strikes the ball over the bar.

Watford’s Jada-Chey’ah Graham

 Swallow out again to the corner of her area, getting to the ball first before Reed can race onto it for Royston. Watford aiming to get the ball on rapidly through the middle, Royston’s defence pushed up at times a mis-up sees the ball bounce on clear for Bellamy too latch onto right of the D, blasts a powerful strike in on goal, coming at Carter quickly the goalkeeper, saves well beating the ball down to bounce away to her right post, her defence seeing the ball away to safety.

Watford’s Isla Bellamy

  GOAL! A lively opening 12 minutes with Royston keen to get the ball forwards, Swallow so far coming to the top of her area ready to get hold of the ball, is undo this time however as Mills on the shoulder of defender, Aliyah Cristal Anderson nips in to get her foot onto the ball before the advancing keeper can get hold of it to knock it on past her an chase the rolling ball on into the back of the net 1-0.

Laura Mills opens the scoring for Royston

 Watford behind in the opening quarter hour drive on with the ball left clipped inside, Payne clearing the ball for a corner before Bellamy can steal through on goal. Curled in from the left to the far post the ball cleared to the top of the area, to Brown left of the D, her shot charged down the ball looping up into the area dropping towards goal, Millie Carter bringing it down safely into her gloves for Royston.

 Reed played in on the left for Royston cutting the ball back in across the top of the area looking for Sillitoe, Swallow getting their first to snatch the ball up into her gloves. Mills picking out Reed again on the left, challenged by Watford full back, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads, manages to squeeze a cross into the six yard box, Swallow diving down to get behind the ball. Royston pressing on the right, Badal with Mills winning a throw, lifted on into the area, Elliott heading it behind for a corner kick. Swung into the crowded six yard box, headed away to the left, play stopped with a Watford player down with a head injury.

  A pause in play but all is OK. The hosts pushing on using the flanks, Reed strong forcing a throw, the ball played in across the top of the area, Anderson back to defend tackling Badal right side as she looks to drive into the box. Jessica Wright winning the ball for Watford putting it on for Graham driving forwards plays the ball out to Brown on the left side for Watford strong looking to push her way into the box, Dilly Haselhurst staying on her well to get a challenge in take the ball off her feet before she can wriggle free to shoot.

Royston’s Amy Reed with Watford’s Kayleigh Elmer-Roads

  A competitive tussle in the middle of the park, Ella Parker knocking the ball on through the middle for Watford, Lovelace making some strong runs to get up with the attackers, Donley, and then Houghton called into action to cut the ball out as the visitors press to find a way in behind. Bodily feeding the ball into the left flank for Reed, surging up the line, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads tracking her to challenge deny the cross.

Royston captain Amy Houghton clearing the ball

 Bodily closing the ball down for Royston as Graham and Bellamy combine looking to make inroads on the right. Sillitoe on the ball linking up with Mills and Badal on the right for Royston the ball turned back inside for Sillitoe inside the box, Anderson tackling her the ball going away for a corner kick. Sillitoe hurt in the attack, brought off with Royston sending on Emma Slater to join the attack. Swung in dangerously across the six yard box, Slater leaping almost gets to it but Watford can see it out far side.

  Donley stands up well to close Lovelace down as she takes control of the ball through the middle drives forwards. The ball popping about in the middle, no quarter given rarely still, Bodily dropping the ball into the right channel for Slater, Georgia Elmer-Roads closing her down to see the ball out for a throw. Slater off the throw hooking the ball back up over her shoulder into the Watford area, Elliott getting her head on it to put behind for a corner kick at the near post. 

 

 Royston looking a threat from corners the ball curled into the near post defended knocked down back to the right, Reed onto the ball snatches a shot in back on goal, on the angle, Swallow right behind down quickly to save. The hosts press well on the right Badal linking up with Slater and Mills the latter shooting from distance from the angle her effort wide across the face of goal.

Watford captain, Rebecca Lovelace

 Swallow the busier of the two goal keepers, saving with her legs and she comes out to close the angle on Reed as she is played in on the left. Moments later makes a great one arm save as Slater is played in on goal left inside the box, sending her shot in across goal, Swallow throwing out her left arm to turn the ball away to the right. Royston keeping it alive fired back in from the right, Swallow down behind it to get hold of the ball.

 Castiglione slides the ball on into the right channel, Anderson dives in to deny Slater. Moving into added time at the end of the 1st half, Royston winning a corner, from the right headed on across goal at the near post on target but straight at the keeper as Swallow claims. 

 GOAL! Watford have carried the threat all through the 1st half the ball knocked on up through the middle, Lovelace attacking it, gets the better of the Royston defence caught high too run on in behind central to bear down on the area, Carter racing out to try and close her down, Lovelace releasing her shot early sending the ball low past the keeper and on into the back of the net to equalise 1-1.

Rebecca Lovelace breaking clear to equalise for Watford

Half-time Royston Town Women 1-1 Watford Ladies Development

 Watford with an equalising goal on the stroke of half-time to change the complexion of the game. Royston with more of the ball pressing players on well opening the scoring in the 12th minute through Laura Mills. That after Watford had a couple of good opportunities themselves to take the lead. Carter called into action to deny Bellamy. Shannon Swallow has been the busier of the two keepers however patrolling the top of the box too claim the ball and make some vital stops.

 Decidedly more chilly at the start of the 2nd half as the sun drops lower still remains a problem with Watford now defending that end. Sofia Jones-Ghartouchent on for Watford replacing Brown. Royston unchanged to get the 2nd period underway, play a long hopeful ball forwards into the Watford box, Swallow can see it bounce wide of her goal. Castiglione taking the ball on for the hosts right side played into Badal squared into the top of the area, Slater fouled the free-kick given away in a dangerous position 25 yards out.

GOAL! Mills over the set-piece as Watford set up to defend, the sun low the ball placed to the right of the D. Mills runs up puts her foot through the ball striking it past over the wall, Swallow wrong footed unable to get across to the right of her goal to stop the ball sailing in right side to see the hosts restore their lead right at the start of the 2nd half 2-1.

Laura Mills scores from the early 2nd half free-kick to restore Royston’s lead

 Mills moving into double figures for the season with her 2nd of the game. Royston full of attacking intent at the start of the 2nd half pushing on with the ball, Slater lively played in on the right, knocking the ball on down the wing cuts it back inside to Badal top of the area right of the D, her touch sending it on into the area for Reed ahead of her, drills her snap shot wide of the right post.

  Slater busy, on the right and on the left, coming in from the wing left side lines up a 20 yard strike, Wright lunging in to charge the ball down for Watford. Bodily and Castiglione chasing the ball down in the middle, keeping Watford pinned back, Badal put in on the right surging on with the ball, Anderson closing her down for the visitors. Watford breaking out from the back winning a free-kick inside the Royston half. Left side a long way out, Parker over it an ambitious effort on goal, Carter coming across her goal can see it bounce wide of her left post.

  Badal taking the ball on right side for Royston turning infield pushing it into the middle for Slater, has Reed ahead of her top of the D, she in turn plays it into the box as Badal continues her run looking to steal in on goal, Georgia Elmer-Roads with a timely tackle for the visitors. Royston on top early in the 2nd half Watford unable to get the ball out of their half to get their attackers on the ball. 

Watford’s Jessica Wright

 Slater played in as she makes a run down into the right getting after the ball on the by-line cuts it back into the area into the path of the advancing Mills, leaning back to strike the ball in across goal, rising her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. A brief pause the ball striking a child behind the goal, everyone ensuring all is well, Mills herself checking on the wellbeing to the unfortunate victim.

 Haselhurst racing past Badal on the overlap on the right her cross blocked by Georgia Elmer-Roads turned behind for a corner kick. From the right the ball sung in across a packed six yard box, Swallow coming in amongst the melee to try and claim the ball taking a blow to the head. Down play stopped as she receives treatment. Up okay for now, another corner awarded out on the left. Swung into the near post, Swallow comes for it undeterred diving forwards onto the ball appearing to aggravate her injury.

 Watford’s defence on the back foot pushed back into their box, Elliott, getting her foot in to tackle Slater as she cuts inside from the left. Elliott again called into action diving in to deny Slater the cross as she is played on by Castiglione on the left. Slater turning provider for Castiglione as she plays the ball inside from the left. the midfielder striking from 20 yards out her attempt close over the bar. 

Watford defender, Amelie Elliott

 Royston on top Haselhurst breaking on with the ball right into the corner to sweep a cross into the six yard box, too close to the keeper claimed low by Swallow. A rare opportunity for Watford to break as Lovelace gets onto the ball centrally running forwards attempts to thread it through to Jones-Ghartouchent in the left channel, Donley getting back on her to block her shot, play brought back however with the flag raised for offside.

  Bodily on for Mills bringing the ball on right side on for Badal down the wing her cross turned behind for a corner kick by Anderson. Royston to make a double change before the corner with Payne and Badal coming off to be replaced by Eloise Cattini and Ailsa Heal making her debut for the 1st team.

GOAL! Royston’s corner kicks causing problems as the host push players into the six yard box as the delivery is curled in from the right, swallow going for it near side unable to get a firm touch as it drops down into ground at the far post, stabbed over the line, Royston open up a 2 goal lead, Slater credited with the goal 3-1.

Emma Slater scores Royston’s 3rd

 

 Midway through the 2nd half Royston taking charge of the contest 2nd half, keeping the ball inside the Watford half throwing players forwards. Bodily threading the ball into the box for Slater stealing in clear left of goal, Swallow out well diving in to save at her feet. Kayleigh Elmer-Roads cutting out a diagonal ball flung into the Watford area from the left by Heal. 

Kayleigh Elmer-Roads

 Elliott comes to close Heal down as Royston push on up the left. The hosts awarded a free-kick deep on the left, lifted high into the top of the area, Elliott under it to head clear for the visitors. Some good attacking moves from Royston, Mills taking the ball on down the right inside for Slater top of the area, sends it on into the area for Heal breaking into the box from the left, her snap shot beat away by Swallow as she drops to make the save.

Ailsa Heal

 A corner for Royston out on the left, defended at the near post, no break for the visitors Royston quick to win the ball back, Cattini into Reed shoots wide from range. Watford making a change, Swallow having picked up a knock early in the 2nd half coming off, Watford do have a replacement keeper on the bench as Sophie Adamou enters the action. Royston also making a change, Slater having made an impact since coming on late in the first half coming off, Stacey Roper coming on. 

Watford’s Aliyah Cristal Anderson

 Kayleigh Elmer-Roads tackling Heal as she looks to make ground on the left for the hosts. Reed nipping in to grab hold of the ball left side puts it inside for Cattini to have a wild strike on goal from range, over the bar. Adamou called into action to deny Mills her hat-trick as the attacker is played in on goal left side her shot angled into the near post Adamou down low to push the ball wide for a corner kick.

Watford goalkeeper, Sophie Adamou

  Curled on into the six yard box from the left Adamou getting a glove on the ball turning it on across the six yard box, retrieved by Heal on the right her left foot cross angled back into the far post turned behind for another corner. Adamou getting a stronger hand on this delivery to turn it wide across her goal. Watford’s attacks limited 2nd half haven’t been able to get Bellamy or Graham onto the ball, the latter picking up possession in the middle has support form Georgia Elmer-Road racing on up the left wing, picking her out, her cross into the area is collected cleanly by Carter.

  Mills into Heal on the left, Georgia Elmer-Roads lunging in to put the ball out for a throw. Reed into the box knocking it down for Mills, looks to set up Cattini top of the area, her strike charged down deflected behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! Heal on the corner from the right clipping the ball into the near post, Elliott tracking in to cut the ball out for Watford deflected back out to the right, Heal gathering up the line looking to get the ball onto her left for, lifts the ball back in over everyone to land inside the far post to score on her debut to make it 4-1.

Amelie Elliott rising initially clearing Ailsa Heal’s corner

Ailsa Heal celebrates as she sends the ball back in to score on her debut

 Royston extending their lead in the 85th minute in firm control of the game, Cattini slides in on Anderson to give the foul away. Lovelace with the ball at her feet for Watford going left has support from Parker who helps the ball on for Lovelace to take on the shot from 20 yards out, on target but straight at Carter in the Royston goal. Watford with  free-kick inside the Royston half the ball played on by Parker into the top of the area, Anderson top of the D knocking it on in towards goal, Carter untroubled though gathering the ball up into her gloves.

Cattini mistiming her tackle on Aliyah Cristal Anderson

 A counter up the other end Mills fed onto the ball left channel powering her way into the box, Anderson on her shoulder, Mills wide of goal looking to lift her shot over the keeper, Adamou getting an arm up to save tip the ball down dropping to the advancing Cattini top of the area, her strike clipped up over the crossbar. 

Royston’s Eloise Cattini

 The clock ticking down Royston dropping back a little allowing Watford some relieve, Graham on for Jones-Ghartouchent right side, Roper closing her down for the hosts. Anderson defending on Mills as she takes the ball on down the right. Haselhurst off the throw into Cattini her cross into the box cleared by Elliott. The final whistle blows up and Royston with a dominant 2nd half performance claim the 3 points lifting them up to 2nd in the Premier Division table.

Full time Royston Town Women 4-1 Watford Ladies Development

  Royston with a league double over Watford, continue their recent good form to climb above them into 2nd in the table. Remains incredibly tight with sides jockeying for position, Stevenage 3 points clear at the top Royston heading a pack behind with just 3 points separating 2nd to 8th in the table. Sure to remain competitive all season. Royston taking control of the game 2nd half after conceding a last gasp equaliser in the 1st half. Winning the ball well in midfield stifling Watford’s attempts to get forwards kept the visitors pinned back scoring early on. Adding a 2nd midway through the 2nd half created numerous chances forcing saves from both Watford keepers before adding a 4th goal late in the contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As often the case a few contenders but one emerging on top I think. Good performances from both sides, firstly for Watford, Shannon Swallow was proactive in goal, making numerous interceptions and saves getting hurt for her efforts eventually forced off. Aliyah Cristal Anderson with some great tackles in defence got across to win the ball. Jada-Chey’ah Graham with some powerful runs on the ball in the 1st half, Royston did well to keep her off the ball 2nd half. Rebecca Lovelace a threat attacking through the middle caused the hosts defence problems. Royston with a strong 2nd half performance, midfielders, Hannah Bodily and Sofia Castiglione winning the ball well keeping the momentum with their side. Amy Reed offering a potent outlet on the left, Ri Badal equally as effective on the right. Emma Slater had a half hour cameo and was impressive getting hold of the ball driving Royston on getting the 3nd goal. The award goes to Laura Mills broke through to open the scoring, made good runs throughout linked up play adding her 2nd early in the 2nd half from a set-piece, unlucky not to go on and claim her hat-trick.

 Another entertaining contest from the ERWFL Premier Division, the league highly competitive this season will be exciting to see how it unfolds. Good to see Watford Ladies Development at last. My thanks to Royston for their help in getting the details for both teams as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Stevenage FC Women Development

Sunday 26th October

ERWFL Division One North

 Into the last weekend of October, the clocks go back and the temperature most certainly drops, however the football is hotting up nicely, leagues taking shape and the likely title contenders have emerged, the action this Sunday from ERWFL Division One North, leaders, Histon Ladies with a 100% record, hosting 2nd placed, Stevenage FC Women Development also unbeaten in the league.

  One promotion place guaranteed for clinching the title, the winning side moving up to join the ERWFL Premier Division, representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid across the East. The ERWFL reaching it’s full compliment of 36 sides across 3 Divisions in recent seasons. A 12 strong Premier Division with a Division One North and South, tier 6 in the pyramid.

  Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies, returning to the ERWFL a couple of seasons ago, making strides on and off the pitch to become one of the leading women’s football clubs in the county, Matt Payne bringing Kevin Jacklin to the club as manager, now stepping up to oversee the women’s development has a wealth of experience in the women’s game, Darren Marjoram joining the club this season to take on the managers role, after a spell in the FAWNL with Cambridge United WFC, Liz Pamplin joining him from Cambridge, making for a strong team to take the cub forwards.

 Histon have hit the ground running this season too, with a 100% win rate in the league so far to top the table with 8 wins from 8. Building upon a 2nd placed finished last season, have an experienced squad, with some promising young talent coming through. Evie Nicholls runaway top scorer for Histon scoring 13 from her 11 appearances so far with 10 of her teammates sharing another 11 goals between them. Winning several of their games by a single goal margin are proving hard to break down conceding the fewest goals in the league with 6 against them so far. Ella Marden the latest signing for the club, coming too Histon on a dual registration from Cambridge United WFC, adds an attacking threat on the wing.

  Stevenage FC Women Development have emerged as Histon’s main challengers making a fantastic start to the season unbeaten in their opening 8 league games dropping just the two points along the way, manager Chad Foster, like his counter part at Histon seeing their strong starts recognised in the ERWFL’s new manager of the month feature. Stevenage FC taking over from the foundation in looking after the development girls and women’s section transitioning into an Academy, the 1st team also riding high in the ERWFL Premier Division, top of the table gunning for promotion this season.

 Stevenage FC Women Development  are the top scorers in ERWFL Division One North, finding the back of the net for 27 goals so far. Unlike Histon however their goals are scattered throughout the squad with with 13 different goal scorers, Kelsey Millen now with Wormley Rovers Ladies joint top scorer on 4 goals along with Sophie Hendy. Looking to produce players for the 1st team are packed with young talent becoming firmly established within the ERWFL themselves.

 Histon FC’s Bridge Road Stadium the venue for today’s league encounter. The weather blowing in form the North earlier ibn the week has seen a marked change in the temperature with it feeling decidedly chilly, overcast too with the likelihood of rain at some point during the match. The large grass pitch looking in great shape, having already featured an U18s match earlier that day. Offering good width covered viewing all round, the main stand housing the bar at the back serving hot and cold drinks. 

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Kelley Robinson, Abi Davies, Mollie Childerley, Laura Leyland (C), Claire Kreuger, Molly Banks, Sabrina Ghosh, Ella Marden, Gabriella Giussani, Sophie Hopkin & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Tash Collins, Eloise Page, Poppy McCleod, Emily Hope & Bella Howard.

Histon Ladies

 Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Tegan Gibbs, Katie Boyle, Jess Preston, Chase Bembridge, Abigail Hunt, Isobel Matfield, Tegan Wilson, Chloe Gregory, Frankie Tilbury, Sophie Hendy (C) & Lilly Kelly. Subs – Charlotte English, Sophie Wade, Isla Martin, Olivia Thornton & Poppy Young. 

Stevenage FC Women Development

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Stevenage to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing an all navy kit with red and white trim. Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to the defence played up through the middle into Tegan Wilson she looks to send in on through the centre into Chloe Gregory making an attacking run at the Histon defence, the pass cut out by Histon captain and centre back, Laura Leyland.

  Stevenage making a bright start looking to shift the ball between them short passes keeping the ball moving, Isobel Matfield getting hold of the ball taking it on through the middle, clipped out to Lilly Kelly making a run on the right flank, controls the ball, checking back inside to play the ball in central, Sabrina Ghosh back to intercept it for the hosts. 

 The visitors winning the ball back inside the Histon half Gregory feeding it into the left channel for Frankie Tilbury to attack, knocks it on, full back Abi Davies thrusting a leg out to cut the ball out divert it out of play for a throw in. The hosts send the ball on up through the middle looking to break in behind the Stevenage defence, Sophie Hopkin with the run, Abigail Hunt getting to it first to put it out for a throw high on the left.

  The throw dropped into Hopkin outside the box left corner, looks to see it down into her feet and turn to release a shot, slips as she goes to pull the trigger seeing her effort screw wide of the left post for a goal kick. Histon coming back at Stevenage to press the ball inside their opponents half, Gabrielle Giussani charging the ball down on the right, can’t pick the pass through for Evie Nicholls up top, cut out by Stevenage’s Jess Preston out for a throw. Lively from both sides rushing in to close the other down. Gregory bringing the ball away to the right on for Kelly has Katie Boyle racing past her on the overlap, Mollie Childerley challenging to prevent the cross.

  Gregory linking up with Wilson through the middle for Stevenage gaining ground the pass threaded out to Kelly on the right driving up the line swings in a cross to the near post grabbed up by Histon goalkeeper, Keeley Robinson. Histon winning another throw high on the left Childerley combining well with Ella Marden to get the ball down into the corner to whip a cross into the near post, goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs down to snatch it up into her gloves not distracted by Nicholls racing in to try and get hold of the ball herself.

Stevenage’s Chloe Gregory

  The visitors working the ball up the pitch quickly Tilbury out to the left, has plenty of support the cross swung in from a deep position, Childerley to clear for Histon central, Stevenage making an appeal for handball but nothing doing. Another Stevenage foray up on the left captain Sophie Hendy on the ball ball left on for Tilbury the ball crossed in to Gregory top of the area, fouls Leyland as the defender goes in to try and clear the foul given even as Boyle right of goal snatches a shot wide of the right post.

Stevenage captain, Sophie Hendy with Histon defender, Claire Kreuger

  Giussani pressing forwards on the right for Histon winning a throw, sees Nicholls turn it into the first corner of the match. Played in long across the six yard box, Stevenage get hold of the ball break forwards Kelly taking the ball on lifting it long into Tilbury charging up the left, slowed up by the Histon defence, playing it back to Hendy her shot from outside the box, deflected through to the keeper. 

  A long ball splitting the Stevenage defence sees, attacker Nicholls racing through in on goal, central pulls the trigger, Gibbs advancing reacting well with a sharp save getting down to block with her leg, the ball looping up lose in the area, no one up with Nicholls who can’t reach it before Stevenage hook the ball clear. 

Goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs preparing to save Evie Nicholls strike

 A lively contest with both sides aiming to get the ball forwards quickly snapping into their tackles, Histon with another probing long pass through the middle from Ghosh sees Hopkin this time stealing away to the right of the D, Chase Bembridge lunging in with the tackle to take the ball away from her for the visitors. 

Chase Bembridge winning the ball back for Stevenage

 Tilbury linking up with Hendy in attack a high ball into the box cleared by Histon who counter the ball forwards into Hopkin, up with Nicholls played down the left wing for Marden to attack, Boyle getting back on her to tackle the ball off her out for a corner kick. Players up from the back for Histon, Claire Kreuger looking to pull of her marker near post make a run to the far side as the corner is swung in towards her, gets a glancing head on the ball, not enough to divert it goal wards as it runs wide past the far post. 

Claire Kreuger intercepts the ball for Histon

  Players from both sides lunging in to try and win the ball some hotly contested 50/50’s, Molly Banks getting stuck in for Histon well backed up by Ghosh as they look to break play up in the middle keep Histon on the front foot. Kelly with some smart footwork to come away with the ball on the right for Stevenage powering forwards has Gregory ahead of her up the line her ball into the box too close to the keeper, Robinson launching it clear.

  Leyland intercepting an attempted through ball from Wilson as Hendy looks to pull in behind. Histon pressuring the ball, closing it down well to get it forward into their attacking players, Hopkin up with Nicholls getting a throw on the left down the line for Marden to wrap her foot around the ball in the corner send a cross into the near post top of the six yard box, Hopkin momentarily free, knocking it down in front of her, Hunt recovering superbly to get back at her deny the shot.

Histon’s Sophie Hopkin

  Kelly picking up a yellow card as she brings Childerley down on the right as she looks to get inside to delivery a cross into the box. Marden coming into the middle sending the cross-field pass into Giussani on the right attempts to play it over the top into the box for Nicholls, too much on it however allowing Gibbs to claim. Midway through the 1st half, a lively contest all action the ball rarely still, Histon beginning to see more of the ball winning it in the middle pushing players on. 

 Banks bringing the ball on well for the hosts playing it on for Marden pushing on down the left the angle against her as she attempts to cross the ball back into the Stevenage area, hits the side netting. Marden played in again on the left to the by-line squares the ball back into the six yard box, missed by Hunt as she goes to clear, however runs on safely for Gibbs to pounce upon it before Histon can capitalise. 

 Hendy fouled as she takes the ball on from Matfield through the middle for Stevenage. Histon strong in defence leaving no room to run in behind cut out by Kreuger, the ball played forwards quickly into Marden breaking on down the left, cuts inside 30 yards out, a miscued attempt to drop the ball into Nicholls path inside the box instead goes out for a goal-kick.

Stevenage’s Isobel Matfield

 A few niggly free-kicks given away but such is the nature of the game the ball being moved so rapidly tackles are bound to be mis-timed, no malice though. Hendy carrying the ball on for Stevenage sends it on for Kelly right side, wide on the angle takes the shot on her effort over the crossbar. 

  Kelly with a late challenge on Childerley, the referee telling her to calm things down, Childerley picking herself up ready to get on with things, the free-kick into the top of the area half cleared, Ghosh onto it firing it on, Nicholls in behind turning to shoot wide of the left post however the flag is up against her. Hunt with  good piece of defending at the back for Stevenage dropping off well on Nicholls to give herself room to tackle as Hopkin attempts to feed the ball into her feet top of the D.

Stevenage defender, Abigail Hunt

  Tilbury lining up as strike from all of 30 yards out for Stevenage central, charged down by Kreuger. 

 GOAL! The clock ticking down in the first half, Nicholls closely marked by the Stevenage defence determined to find a way through, pulls away to the right as Ghosh plays her in from the middle takes the ball into her stride holding off players as she bursts into the box, striking the ball on the angle to blast a vicious strike low past the keeper before she can get down to block 1-0.

Evie Nicholls opening the scoring for Histon

  Stevenage falling behind late in the 1st half, Histon with a long range effort fired into the box, catching Gibbs unawares she lurches forwards palming the ball away, goes down in agony immediately after appearing to get her feet caught in the turf jarring both her ankle and knee, only recently recovered from an ankle injury play is stopped some concern amongst the Stevenage players, needs treatment play paused. The visitors with no recognised goalkeeper on their bench discussing their options, Bembridge putting herself forwards for the role the change delayed however as Gibbs slowly rises to her feet prepared to go on see how she feels for now.

 Not risking kicking the ball, play resumes with Histon quickly in to win the ball back in the middle, Hopkin with a long range tester for the injured keeper, Gibbs back in her six yard box untroubled the ball straight at her gathered. Hendy onto the ball left side in the box shoots low, Robinson down to save it covering the near post.

Histon goalkeeper, Keeley Robinson

 Histon attack down their right, Davies on for Giussani, her cross into the top of the area brought under control by Marden left of goal her initial shot blocked by Hunt, gets another bite at it hooking the loose ball up in towards goal, Gibbs back on her line getting her gloves up above her head to grab hold of the ball. 

Stevenage goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs

 Into stoppage time in the 1st half, Stevenage dropping deep looking to protect their injured keeper, Nicholls full of attacking intent looking to chase Gibbs down winning her side a late corner. Swung into the box cleared by Boyle. Childerley with another throw on the left high inside the Stevenage half sends Marden in down the line, Boyle back on her to defend the ball out for a corner. Defended successfully out for a 2nd corner no time to take it as the referee blows up for half-time. 

Half-time Histon Ladies 1-0 Stevenage FC Women Development

  A lively 1st half drawing to a close Histon heading into the changing rooms with a narrow one goal lead. Made to work hard for it the ball closed down throughout by both sides, Stevenage with a bright start looking to get the ball forwards, Kelly a threat out to the right keeping the defence busy, the midfield hotly contested, Histon getting on top to press the ball create chances, Nicholls closely marked working hard to find an opening put trough to score late in the half. Goalkeeper Gibbs picking up a nasty looking injury a blow to the visitors.

  As suspected Stevenage are not risking Gibbs in the 2nd half making a change, Bembridge donning the spare goalkeepers kit coming out early to get warmed up for her new role. The visitors making double change, Wilson also off with Charlotte English and Isla Martin coming on.

Chase Bembridge warming up going into goal in the 2nd half for Stevenage

  Histon unchanged as they get the 2nd half underway the rain arriving now retreated into the stand to watch the game. The ball from the middle clipped out to Marden on the left knocked forwards, Boyle out to close her down sending the ball out for a corner kick.

 Taken short played up the line, the cross coming in from deep falling to Leyland unmarked top of the area tries to guide her header into the left of the Stevenage goal, Bembridge across her goal face to grab hold of the ball. Histon making a positive start to the 2nd half pressing on with the ball, Banks finding Nicholls breaking into the left channel  wins a corner off a defensive challenge.

Histon midfielder, Molly Banks

  From the left swung in central knocked down central to the left of goal, Bembridge alert down quickly to scoop the ball up into her gloves. Histon’s defence pushed up as Stevenage look to counter, Matfield playing the ball on through the middle, Leyland with a vital interception at the ball or Gregory would have been free with the ball to make a run on goal. 

Histon captain, Laura Leyland

 Davies combining with Giussani on Histon’s right, the latter sending a cross deep into the far post Marden arriving to get her head on the ball drives it wide back across the face of goal. Stevenage frustrated as Kelly is flagged offside attempting to get after a diagonal pass into her on the left. Stevenage defending deeper 2nd half, inviting pressure from Histon, Davies and Childerley able to get forwards to help support the attack. Gregory picking up a knock for Stevenage back helping out in defence but back up on her feet able to play on.

  Childerley with a strong challenge on Martin as the wing cuts inside from the right, play brought back for the free-kick with no advantage. Right of the D 25 yards out, Tilbury over it strikes the ball well past the wall but not troubling Robinson has she holds up her gloves seeing it race wide of her left post. 

 Banks continues to get stuck into the action for Histon making some strong challenges to win the ball back keep her side on the front foot. A free kick won inside the visitors half played out to the left the cross turned behind by English for a corner kick. Curled into the top of the six yard box attacked by Kreuger central her header seeing the ball turned out wide past the far post.

  The rain falling steadily Histon attack on the right Davies going past Giussani to take the ball on slipping as she goes to play the cross. Is still high up the pitch as Giussani lunges in to regain possession put it back on for her wide, this time sends her cross into the box, snatched up by Bembridge at the near post. Giussani given the ball by Ghosh angling a cross into the area from the right, headed clear by Hunt for Stevenage. Marden taking the ball on from Childerley on the left feeding in on into the box for Hopkin sends the ball from the angle up over the bar.

Histon winger, Ella Marden

  Histon making a double switch past the hour mark, Tash Collins and Belle Howard coming on, Giussani and Hopkin coming off. Nicholls seeing the ball into her feet central top of the D, moves right, getting a shot away under challenge, angled back in across goal, Bembridge getting down behind it to make the save. The Stevenage defence riding out a spell of pressure, Preston breaking away with the ball on the left angling a cross into the area, cleared by Childerley far side as Martin looks to run in on the ball.

  Histon’s defence looking solid not leaving many gaps pushed up at time Banks and Ghosh supporting the ball won back Davies and Childerley getting on to support on the flanks. Howard busy after the ball providing good link up play with Nicholls in attack. English cutting a pass out inside the D as the pair combine. Marden flashing a cross into the near post coming at Bembridge quickly makes a grab for it pops up out of her gloves for a split second but recovers quickly to get hold of it before it can evade her trickle over the line.

Histon full back Abi Davies

 Howard hooking the ball forwards on for Nicholls pulling into the right channel bringing the ball down, comes back inside shaping to shoot, Boyle in to close her down the ball off the defender behind for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Players up from the back for the corner initially defended by Stevenage cleared to the left outside the area Histon closing the ball down en masse the shot struck on with plenty of pace from the angle, head height, on Bembridge quickly makes a grab for it but doesn’t stick in her gloves popping out and agonisingly beyond her over the line to see Histon double their lead with a little over 15 minutes left on the clock 2-0. Leyland the player with the strike congratulated by her teammates scoring her 2nd goal of the season.

Captain Laura Leyland firing Histon into a 2 goal lead

  Niggle as Stevenage want to make a change before the restart, retaken so it can be made Olivia Thornton coming on replacing Kelly. Stevenage picking out Martin wide on the right she wins her side a throw, the ball level with the top of the area helped on into the box headed away by Leyland. Preston pushing on up the left looking to link up with Thornton, Collins getting back to help in defence winning the ball back.

Jess Preston winning the ball back for Stevenage

  Gregory picking the ball up in the middle for the visitors pushing on towards the box, right of the D, is no way through forced out of the area by Kreuger the centre back lunges in to give away the free-kick and earn herself a yellow card. Similar to her earlier attempt, Tilbury over the ball again gets it on target this time but straight forward for Robinson right behind it in goal.

Stevenage’s Frankie Tilbury

  Histon look to launch a rapid counter attack the ball on for Ghosh through the middle lifts it on into the area for Nicholls but too strong out for a goal kick. Thornton taking the ball on to the by-line for Stevenage left flank, Davies back with her challenging to see the ball off the attacker for a goal kick. Into the final 10 minutes Stevenage with a double change, Gregory and Preston coming off, Sophie Wade and Poppy Young sent on. Histon also making a change, Marden coming off to be replaced by Emily Howe.

  Martin getting the better of Childerley attacking on the right inside to delivery a cross into the area, Kreuger though under it to clear for Histon. Leyland on hand at the back for Histon to clear the ball as Thornton stands a ball up into the box from the left. Ghosh firing the ball into Howard she knocks it into Nicholls central, Hunt snaps in to take the ball off her for Stevenage. Collins attacking with the ball out on the right for Histon sees her cross deflected behind off a defender for a corner kick.

Histon’s Sabrina Ghosh

 The light beginning to fade rapidly as we move into the final 5 minutes of the game, Collins pushing on into the box from the right flashing a cross into the six yard box, Nicholls central looking to get it under control release a shot, Boyle in to close her down the ball away for a corner kick. Histon on top in the closing stages of the game winning a free-kick as they look to hold the ball up in the corner, played into the area cleared to the top of the area Ghosh latching onto it strikes the ball in on goal from 20 yards out swerving to the left, Bembridge gets down well to save. 

 Eloise Page coming on in the closing moments for Histon replacing Ghosh. Collins using her experience to keep the ball in the corner on the right for Histon run down the clock, the final whistle blowing up to see the hosts collect the 3 points extending their 100% record to 9 straight wins to extend their lead at the top of the table. 

Full time Histon Ladies 2-0 Stevenage FC Women Development

  Histon with a goal in both halves ensuring victory, on top overall with a strong 2nd half performance to dominate the ball wining their challenges, getting players up the pitch to keep the pressure on while staying solid at the back giving very little away in the 2nd period. An entertaining contest between the two sides at the top of the table, easy to see why both are where they are, Stevenage losing their unbeaten record, will have a chance to get back at Histon straight away as the two sides meet again next weekend in the reverse fixture, sure to be as hotly contested as the first.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual another tough on, although I was fairly certain before the final whistle. Small margins however and both sides with a strong all round team performance. Several to mention, firstly doe Stevenage, Abigail Hunt with some vital interceptions and tackles in defence. Chase Bembridge too stepping up to replace the injured keeper 2nd half. Chloe Gregory with some strong midfield runs. Lilly Kelly a threat on the ball on the flanks looked dangerous throughout. For Histon, Laura Leyland and Claire Kreuger were strong in the centre of defence limited opportunities keeping it tight won the ball well both offering a threat from set-pieces up the other end, backed up well by full backs, Mollie Childerley and Abi Davies. Sabrina Ghosh with some useful tackling played the ball forwards well. Evie Nicholls lively in attack, closely marked but worked hard to find an opening opening the scoring. The award goes to midfielder Molly Banks got stuck in from the start closing the ball down, wining her fair share of tackles and kept her side on the front foot throughout.

 October’s been a lean month for myself football wise, other priorities taking hold but good to be back at it today with an entertaining contest from the top of ERWFL Division One North, thanks to both sides for their help this afternoon always appreciated. Best wishes too to Stevenage goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs hoping the injury isn’t too serious and she can make a swift recovery. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Hashtag United Women Reserves

Sunday 12th October

ERWFL League Cup

Back at it this Sunday with a game from the ERWFL League Cup, the competition into the 2nd Round, Hashtag United Women Reserves, newly promoted to the ERWFL, 2nd in Division One South travelling to Norfolk to face Premier Division side, Wroxham Women.

The clubs knocked out in the opening 2 rounds of the ERWFL League Cup going on to contest the League Plate.

Wroxham Women, seeing Joe Simpson return to take on the managers role this season following the departure of Adam Race, the Norfolk club doing well in the League Cup in recent season’s since making the switch from Acle to join Wroxham, finalists in 2022 & 2024. Simpson very busy on the coaching front at the moment also interim manager at King’s Lynn Town FC. The club having something of a rebuild with a few senior players moving on, such as former captain Becky Russell. Tigi Robson formerly vice captain stepping up to the role. Currently 9th in the Premier Division table will be looking to push on into the top half challenge the leading pack.

A host of new faces joining the side this season, a younger squad full of players with great potential to go on grow in the game. Some experience added too, Kathryn Stanley formerly playing for FAWNL side, Norwich City Women joining this season. Alice Collins another with a wealth of experience playing for Wymondham, King’s Lynn and most recently Thetford in the ERWFL. Sister’s Katie and Maddie Green made a name for themselves in Norfolk starring for Fakenham Town Ladies last season. Lucy Bradford re-joining the squad this season. Holly Farrow comes to Wroxham having been at Mulbarton last season with Milly Weddle joining having played for Ipswich Academy. Rachel Skinner the most recent recruit previously with King’s Lynn Town. Hannah Fuller always amongst the goals for Wroxham still leading the line has 3 to her name so far this season, Hayley Kindred one ahead netting 4.

  Hashtag United football club bursting onto the football scene in Essex, a new concept showing lots of ambition, on the women’s side taking over the C&K Basildon Women’s side that had reached the 3rd tier of the women’s football pyramid, pushing hard for promotion too from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, becoming the leading force for women’s football in the county. First saw their Reserves side in the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup back in 2023, played well suffering a narrow 1-0 loss to Billericay Town Women. Reserves sides within the FAWNL struggling to find a settled path in recent season’s.

 Led by Declan Murphy, Hashtag United Women Reserves joined the Essex Women’s Premier Division last season, were a strong outfit emerging out on top to clinch both the league title and lift the league cup making the progression up into the ERWFL and regional football, joining Division One South, with a already strong Essex presence. Performing best amongst the newly promoted sides. winning 4 of their opening 6 league matches with just the one loss to sit 2nd in the table amongst the sides looking to chase down leaders Chelmsford City Women. The highest scorers in the league too finding the back of the net for 29 goals in those 6 matches including 15 in their last 2 matches. Chelise Fleming top scorer so far with 13 goals from 6 matches. Sophia Mylona with 7 from the 2 games she has featured in.

  The Ginger Pickle Arena at Trafford Park the venue for today’s league cup encounter, home to Yachtsmen and Yachtswomen, Wroxham one of a number of clubs that gives great promotion and support to their women’s side. The large grass pitch sloping from one goal to the other, a small covered stand with seating on one side with standing viewing all-round the clubhouse and bar open serving both hot and cold drinks and food. The weather somewhat overcast today but settled and still mild for the time of year.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Katie Green, Tigi Robson (C), Poppy Loveland, Jordan Arnoup, Lily Alexander, Katie Knights, Jorja Palmer, Lauren Bullard, Maddie Green & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Milly Weddle, Hayley Kindred, Holly Farrow & Rachel Skinner.

Wroxham Women

Hashtag United Women Reserves starting XI – Aulona Xhema, Macey Rothon (C), Emma Clark, Emily Galea, Sarah Finch, Raissa Taborda, Charis Howell, Leonnie Telford, Motunrayo Ojobaro, Chelise Fleming & Sophia Mylona. Subs – Emily Hamlin, Leyla Priest, Erin Radburn, Mimi Ouacel & Gracie Oxby.

Hashtag United Women Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wroxham having played 4 successive away fixtures, glad to be back on home turf, giving a few players a rest have a few missing through injury, new signing Collins and defender Ella Gambell who recently suffered a broken collar bone amongst them. Defender Albany Hodgson, recently announcing her pregnancy, sending her my congratulations. Hashtag themselves a young side, just captain, Macey Rothon and defender Chloe Galea remain from the squad that played in the County Cup final. 

   Wroxham to kick-off the first half attacking down the slope, wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks, Hashtag lined up opposite in their away colours, red and blue patterned halved shirts, red shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into Katie Knights in midfield lifts it forwards into the right channel for Lauren Bullard rushing forwards the ball cleared by captain, Macey Rothon for Hashtag, the hosts looking to press forwards early on get after the ball inside the Hashtag half, Wroxham forcing it on into the left channel, Hannah Fuller, bursting through into the box looking to get onto the ball, goalkeeper, Aulona Xhema rushing forwards to put her foot through the ball to launch clear.

 

  Looking highly competitive in the middle, Charis Howell getting hold of the ball for Hashtag lifting in on into the right wing for Motunrayo Ojobaro to attack breaking forwards with pace, Poppy Loveland moving across to defend for Wroxham sliding in to tackle the ball out for a throw. Lily Alexander battling for the ball in the middle for Wroxham pushed up along side Katie Knights the latter clipping the diagonal pass on for Bullard attacking down the right flank, stands a cross up to the near post, taken cleanly above her head by Xhema. 

  Physical too both sides getting stuck in Alexander and Chelise Fleming tussling for the ball. Wroxham winning throws on either flank inside their opponents half. Jorja Palmer on the left for Wroxham getting help from her captain Tigi Robson the ball squared into the middle for Alexander, send on to the right Katie Green latching onto it sending a high ball into the area claimed by Xhema.

Wroxham’s Jorja Palmer

  Hashtag under pressure, break away with pace the ball from Raissa Taborda in the centre forced on into the path of Leonie Telford charging forwards on the left, takes on the strike early her angled shot from all of 25 yards out racing wide past the far post. 

  Ojobaro back to help in defence as Wroxham build on the left Knights linking up with Palmer and Fuller, Ojobaro snapping in to regain possession for the visitors. 

 GOAL! Hashtag look dangerous on the counter and so proves the case as the ball is cleared out of defence, up to halfway the bounce misread by the defence, sees Fleming break clear with the ball at her feet storming on through the middle pulls the trigger from 20 yards out fiercely struck the ball flies past goalkeeper, Bryony Williams into the back of the net to open the scoring 0-1.

Chelise Fleming breaking away to open the scoring for Hashtag.

  Hashtag into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, Wroxham look to regroup the ball into Maddie Green played on for Fuller in attack, working hard to close the ball down in the final 3rd comes left, her cross cut back to the top of the area, cleared by Hashtag’s Chloe Galea. The hosts pressing the ball in the final 3rd Palmer squared to Knights left corner turns, looks to play the ball on for Fuller attacking through the middle, cut out by Galea who sets her side away on the counter the ball launched forwards through the middle for Fleming to try and chase down, Williams starts to come, but stays inside her box as she realises the ball has just about enough on it for her to gather safely. 

  Wroxham winning a throw on the right Katie Green putting the pass into Knights inside right 25 yards out looks to line up a strike, Fleming back in the way to charge the ball down for Hashtag. The visitors come away with the ball on the right, Emma Clark taking the ball on from the back launching a diagonal ball into the box, Sophia Mylona the target racing in on goal, Loveland with her even as Williams comes to get hold of the high ball, does well, her momentum however seeing her collide with her own defender, Loveland floored and in need of treatment. A pause in play but she is okay to play on.

 Wroxham come down the left Palmer sending the deep cross into the middle, taken down by Alexander she looks to push on towards the area appears to have her shirt pulled, play goes one however, Sarah Finch in to make the challenge the ball deflected away to the left Palmer latching onto it shooting on the angle low into the near post. Xhema across to cover the angle scooping up the ball. 

Hashtag defender, Sarah Finch

 GOAL! Pushing for a reply get the ball forwards into Palmer out on the left she cuts it back into Maddie Green who plays it in central for Alexander, Hashtag quick to move in close her down, she still gets the ball back out to Palmer left outside the box her cross back in central latched onto by Knights inside the D who makes good contact with the ball smashing her shot past the keeper before she can react to level the scores. 1-1.

Katie Knights fires in the equaliser for Wroxham

  Wroxham back on level terms with 20 minutes on the clock. Shaping up to be a lively cup contest. Loveland with a crucial interception stretching a leg out to cut the ball from Fleming out as she looks to send it on for Mylona through the middle. Rothon sliding in to challenge, Bullard and Katie Green sends the ball on for her down Wroxham’s right wing. 

 Fleming with an over zealous challenge on Loveland getting a stern talking too from the referee, Wroxham awarded the free-kick. A loose goal-kick form Hashtag presenting the ball straight to Maddie Green 25 yards out sweeps the ball out to the left for Palmer, looks to take the ball inside, Clark closing her down well tackling to see the ball out for another Wroxham throw.

Jorja Palmer with Hashtag’s Emma Clark

 Katie and Maddie Green combine on the right as Wroxham attack the deep cross into the near post dealt with well by Hashtag’s Finch. Wroxham sending a shot over from range as they move in rapidly to regain possession. Hashtag with pace to burn in attack, Ojobaro getting hold of the ball on the right surging forwards driving into the box right of goal close to the by-line cuts it back into the middle, just behind the on rushing Mylona. Multiple shots from the top of the area blocked by the Wroxham defence one taking a wicked deflection wide of the right post for a corner kick. 

Hashtag’s Motunrayo Ojobaro

 The corner played into the near post from the right, good pace on the ball, Fleming stretching out a leg looking to strike it on the volley. Alexander close in on her in the way to block the ball. Fleming a real handful to deal with when she gets hold of the ball looking to push on through the middle, strong, Robson does well to stay on her getting a block in as she pulls the trigger top of the area the sting taken off the ball runs on for her keeper to snatch up.

  Arnoup in defence for Wroxham cutting the ball out as Taborda and Fleming combine through the middle the latter’s pass forwards not reaching Mylona bursting in behind. Loveland sends the ball long for Wroxham into the left channel, Fuller moving across to link up with Palmer in attack. Clark snapping on to win the ball back for Hashtag launching a rapid counter…

Emma Clark

 GOAL! … Clark’s ball rolled forwards into Ojobaro with the ball at her feet drives on up the wing before squaring a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Mylona the first to arrive getting onto the end of it to coolly turn the ball past the keeper from close range to put Hashtag back into the lead 1-2. 

Sophia Mylona scoring to put Hashtag back into the lead

  The visitors back into the lead as the first half closes in on the half hour mark. Wroxham frustrated several free-kicks being given away, Fleming with another robust challenge gets another warning from the referee. Fuller taking the ball on from Maddie Green in the right channel looks for force her way through into the Hashtag box, 4 players closing her down, there’s no way through. 

Wroxham’s Hannah Fuller

  Finch getting her head on the ball to defend a Bullard cross from the right gives away the corner kick. Wroxham look to mix things up with a short corner but mess it up losing possession on the left Taborda coming away with the ball for Hashtag pressing forwards, Katie Green across to get back at her defend for Wroxham. Some bruising battles out there, the ball contested strongly through the middle, Arnoup getting there first as Fleming looks to knock the ball on for Ojobaro on the right. 

Jordan Arnoup

  Bullard receiving the ball into her feet on the left plays it on for Palmer, gets inside Clark, but not Finch as the centre back comes round on the cover. Loveland doing the defending for Wroxham at the back as Taborda looks to send Ojobaro clear on the right. Rothon intercepting the ball on the left for Hashtag looks to send Telford away on the wing, Katie Green closing her down to put the ball out for a throw. 

  All action a lively cup contest, Loveland with another good tackle to deny Fleming this time as the attacker looks to plough her way into the left channel. Wroxham with the ball on the right Maddie Green playing it on for Fuller to race onto inside the box right of goal, Finch going with her even as Xhema comes rushing out to slide in try and claim the ball, instead collides with her own defender the ball loose beyond them both Fuller trying to get to it, Rothon back on the cover winning the race instead to clear the ball across the face of goal out to the left. 

  Xhema stays down after the collision in need of treatment, have a replacement keeper in Emily Hamlin on the bench, time taken however and is up and ready to continue. Moving into the final 5 minutes of the first half. Hashtag breaking clear to attack on the right Fleming storming on with the ball her cross into the area deflected by Knights, allowing Robson to clear, only as far as Ojobaro on the right, shifts the ball inside getting into the box to shoot on the angle her low strike saved by Williams as she drops getting her body behind the ball. 

Lily Alexander with Raissa Taborda

 Fleming making a nuisance of herself, a coming together with Arnoup on the left, sees the Wroxham defender penalised shown a yellow card, the visitors presented with the free-kick. Telford over the ball, goes for goal getting her shot on target at the near post, lacks the height though to trouble Williams who has the angle covered.

 Mylona seeing the ball from Howell into her feet turns to play the ball on for Telford on the left, Katie Green lunging in for Wroxham to see the ball out for a throw. The throw finding its way on through to Taborda central 25 yards out has a swing at the ball her shot over the bar. Taborda getting stuck in to her tackles in the middle for Hashtag breaking play up getting her side back on the front foot.

  Wroxham continue to win throws high on both flanks, Finch making a couple of interceptions inside the box as Wroxham press players on around the box. Fleming passing the ball out to Telford left side squares it back into Taborda in the middle 30 yard out goes for another strike on goal, Robson charging it down for Wroxham. 

  Fleming strong holding the ball up well on the right for Hashtag turns to cross into the box, Robson sticking a leg out to cut it out turn the ball behind for a corner kick. Once again flashed into the near post, Fleming the target trying on connect on the volley, evades Knights close on her this time, but not Arnoup covering the post sees the ball wide for another corner kick. 

 Telford to clip another corner into the box from the right, defended by Wroxham’s Bullard, cleared back out to Telford on the right, strikes the ball back into the area on the angle her effort dropping wide past the far post. Loveland sends the ball on from the back for Wroxham into Fuller in the left channel plays it central for Knights is chopped down the free-kick awarded the hosts furious a card hasn’t been shown. Alexander over the set-piece 25 yards out her strike hitting the wall away for a corner on the right. Flung into the near post Hashtag successfully defend as the whistle blows up for half-time.

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-2 Hashtag United Women Reserves

 A hard fought cup tie sees the visitors from Essex leading 2-1 at the break. Wroxham making a strong stat looking to get after the ball inside their opponents half, fiercely contested in the middle Hashtag looked dangerous on the counter attack with plenty of pace in the final 3rd, took advantage to open the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, Wroxham coming back to level the scores midway through the half, another counter saw Hashtag retake the lead. Created further chances, both sides look a threat going forwards, just a single goal in it still all to play for in the 2nd half.

  Hashtag making a change at the break, captain, Macey Rothon picking up a knock in the first half replaced at left back by Mimi Ouacel. Wroxham unchanged the visitors out early wanting to get back underway. The ball played on into the left channel, Katie Green getting hold of it for Wroxham coming forwards played into Knights right of the D to cross in central looking to pick out Fuller, Finch intercepts well for Hashtag.

  The hosts looking to get on with the ball at the start of the 2nd half Maddie Green into Fuller ahead of her on the right, Galea lunging in to defend win the ball back for Hashtag. Galea winning the ball at the back soon after for Hashtag looking to get Ouacel away on the left, Katie Green closing her down well for Wroxham. 

Hashtag’s Chloe Galea

 Maddie Green taking the ball on up the right for Wroxham squaring a cross into the top of the area for Bullard looks to play it into Fuller ahead of her closely marked by Galea the ball stabbed clear out to the left, Robson getting hold of it striking in a shot on the angle from outside the box her effort over the bar. 

 Fleming making a run into the right wing sees the ball into her feet drives down the line before flashing a shot in at the near post, Williams with a sharp save getting a glove on the ball to turn it into the side netting for a corner kick. The corner defended by Wroxham the hosts break quickly the ball with Maddie Green on the right sends it on for Fuller pressing on into the box his held up by Clark, lays it back for Green to clip in towards goal on the angle, not enough on it as Xhema can see it down into her gloves. 

Maddie Green

 Williams comes racing out of her area to slide in and clear the ball away for a throw as Ojobaro threatens to burst clear attacking on the right for Hashtag. Wroxham quick to advance as they play the ball long into Maddie Green right wing pushing on her cross low into the box taking a deflection coming into Bullard top of the area, leaning back as she shoots her effort over the crossbar.

Lauren Bullard

  Hashtag working hard in defence to keep Wroxham out as the hosts look to push up the flanks, Ojobaro back to defend on Palmer as she takes the ball on from Alexander up the left. Hashtag remain a constant threat on the counter attack, Howell getting the ball on for Mylona lifts it into Fleming drifting right her cross into the opposition area, too strong for Telford charging on from the left. 

Charis Howell after the ball for Hashtag

 Knights threading the ball on for Fuller positioned top of the area, Finch stabbing a foot out to take it away from her for Hashtag. Katie Green up with sister, Maddie on the right the cross into the box too close to the keeper, Xhema taking the catch. Wroxham ringing the changes 15 minutes into the 2nd half making a quadruple switch, Robson, Palmer, Arnoup and Bullard coming off, on come Kathryn Stanley, Holly Farrow, Milly Weddle and Rachel Skinner. Fuller now wearing the armband. 

 Knights doesn’t get the connection she wants on her strike from 20 yards out left of the D as the ball bounces up off the turf into the keepers gloves. Taborda fouls Skinner on half way the set-piece leading to a corner being conceded. Played in goes through everyone inside the six yard box. Cleared the ball forwards won by Katie Green into the right flank, Fuller after it as Ouacel turns to defend, looking to get around the defender onto the ball Fuller, accidentally clips her heels bringing her down for the free-kick. 

Katie Green

  Ojobaro with the ball at her feet on the right attacking for Hashtag squares it in central for Taborda, Weddle quickly across her path the deny her the strike from 25 yards out. Wroxham with fresh legs on the pitch looking to press the advantage good link up play between Katie Green, Maddie Green and Skinner on the right the ball crossed into the box for Knights she rolls it outside back to Maddie Green who strikes over from 20 yards out.

  Taborda picking up a blow for Hashtag comes off to be replaced by Leyla Priest. Fuller fouled in the left corner as she is played onto the ball by Knights. Alexander over the free-kick, curls the ball in on the keeper, Xhema throwing an arm up to turn the ball over for a corner kick. Delivered into the area from the right is cut out for a 2nd corner. Taken short to Katie Green looks to exchange passes with Alexander, Hashtag’s Ouacel moving in to close them down the cross angled high into the box taken cleanly by Xhema.

Mimi Ouacel

  Williams rushing out of her box to slide in try and win the ball before Mylona can reach it as Hashtag counter through the middle, the pair coming together the goalkeeper coming off worse. Hashtag’s turn to complain to the referee. A long pause in play so the keeper can receive treatment but is up and okay to continue. Into the final 20 minutes, the clock ticking down as Wroxham look to level the game. 

 

  Howell giving away a free-kick inside her half, Wroxham play it back for Knights to clip a long ball into the right channel for Skinner bursting forwards just a little too much on it Skinner can’t keep it in play. Wroxham winning a throw high on the right, Maddie Green linking up with Skinner a teasing cross flung into the six yard box, Knights jumping for it central can only get a glancing touch with her header not enough to turn it past the keeper travels on out to the left cleared by Clark.

Rachel Skinner up to head the ball for Wroxham

Wroxham making another switch, Fuller the player coming off, Hayley Kindred coming on. Finch defends for Hashtag as Skinner tries to pick out Stanley drifting into the box from the left. Ojobaro coming off for Hashtag, Erin Radburn sent into the action. 

Poppy Loveland

 GOAL! Wroxham have been pressing all 2nd half looking for a 2nd goal, find it as they build on the right, Katie Green on for Maddie Green her lay off seeing Kindred race on up the flank with the ball at her feet digging a cross out dropping into the six yard box for Stanley at the far post to nod down past the keeper and into the goal beyond 2-2.

Kathryn Stanley makes it 2-2 for Wroxham

  Wroxham equalising with a little over 5 minutes of regular play left. Hashtag get straight on the attack from the restart the pass finding Fleming pulling away on the right to strike the ball in on the angle, Williams down sharply at her near post to make the save. Fleming out on the right again, evading a challenge from Loveland to shoot her effort wide across goal past the far post.

  Fleming down with a knock after the attack but back on her feet seeing more stoppage time added. A tense finish to the game. Skinner charging on with the ball right side for Wroxham taking on the early cross into the top of the area cut out by the Hashtag defence, comes back to Alexander, striking it on the volley, over the bar.

Lily Alexander

 Loveland defending well at the back for Wroxham, with the challenge on Fleming as the attacker looks to see the ball into her feet spin away to the right. Skinner carries the ball on up the right for Wroxham playing it on for Kindred, she turns it back into Skinners feet as she checks inside to shoot from the top of the area her looping shot dipping onto the roof of the net.

  GOAL! The 90 minutes almost up Wroxham having fought their way back into the game are undone chasing a winning goal the ball cleared by Xhema at the back finding its way through to Mylona stealing into space in the left channel, getting hold of the ball drives on into the box before striking a rising shot on past the keeper to strike the back of the net and fire the Essex side back into the lead 2-3!

Sophia Mylona fires Hashtag back into the lead late in the game

A hammer blow for Wroxham late in the contest get back on the attack the ball from Alexander into Stanley out side the area top of the D, puts her foot through it the ball taking a couple of deflections off the Hashtag defence on its way through out wide for a corner kick. Fuller sent back into the action for Wroxham. Maddie Green right has Skinner ahead of her, plays her in, Ouacel dives in to see the ball out for a throw in. 

Into stoppage time, plenty to be added, Fuller strong in possession wide left her shot into the near post held by the keeper. Katie Green with the block on Mylona as the visitors threaten another dangerous counter. Kindred on the left now for Wroxham driving up the wing her cut back cut out by Telford back in defence for the visitors. Wroxham throwing players on looking for a 3rd reply with time running out, Kindred on for Fuller left her cross intercepted by Finch.

  Knights with a strike from distance straight at the keeper as Fuller’s cross from the left in cleared straight into her feet. The hosts winning a late corner on the right flung into the box near side, Howell clearing for Hashtag. Howell slides in soon after on Kindred as she attacks on the right the ball away for a throw. Fleming always ready to receive the ball off the counter as Hashtag break, Mylona looking to play her on right side, Loveland on her to tackle see the ball out for a throw. 

 Fuller attacking left flank sees her cross turned behind off a defender for a corner kick. Plenty up in the six yard box, players coming together, the referee needing to have words to calm things down the cross not finding its mark. Deep into injury time Hashtag working hard determined to keep Wroxham out get the ball forwards a run into the corner not a option for Fleming as she blasts a shot in on the angle from the right wide across goal. Hashtag with the ball up the right end with a corner turned behind at the near post from the left, no time for the 2nd corner as the final whistle blows and Hashtag beat higher league opposition to advance in this season’s League Cup.

Full time Wroxham Women 2-3 Hashtag United Women Reserves

  A combative game, Wroxham working hard to find a reply in the 2nd half coming back to level the game as Hashtag worked just as hard to try and keep them out, counter attacks limited in the 2nd half but just as dangerous, Mylona breaking clear into the left channel to fire the visitors into the lead for the 3rd time in the match. Wroxham having fought so hard to get back on level terms suffering a hammer blow tried to level the match up for the 3rd time but to no avail as Hashtag worked hard as a unit to keep them out. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as is often the case another tough decision several contenders on both sides in both attack and defence. A few to mention, firstly for Wroxham, Poppy Loveland make several important tackles in defence covered the ground and stayed focused throughout, Katie Green too strong at the back with a number of vital tackles played some great balls forwards too. Lily Alexander got into some good positions centrally used the ball well and got stuck in was a lively midfield. Katie Knights too in the middle making some good runs on hand to score the first equaliser. For Hashtag was a strong team effort from back to front. Chelise Fleming a real handful all game strong on the ball, always available for the quick counter firing her side into the lead. Sophia Mylona with a brace with some good runs in attack too. Leonie Telford and Motunrayo Ojobaro with pace on the flanks get forwards well to join the attack, both doing their part to defend 2nd half. Raissa Taborda get stuck in closing the ball down in the middle, winning her fair share of tackles got the ball moving. Emma Clark with several well timed tackles on the right of defence. The award goes to central defender Sarah Finch, read the game well getting into the right positions to win the ball inside the box, closed down well and as Wroxham squeezed the defence and midfield together in the 2nd half didn’t let anything through.

 An entertaining and heartily contested cup tie from the ERWFL League Cup, my first trip to the Ginger Pickle Arena this season, good to catch up with Wroxham, see Hashtag United Women Reserves in action too, will certainly be a threat for whoever they face in the next round. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham