Monthly Archives: April 2016

Cup Final Report – Cambridge United WFC v Great Shelford Ladies

Trip to Histon FC this Thursday evening to watch the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance between Cambridge United WFC and Great Shelford Ladies.

Something of a regular fixture these days as the 2 leading sides in women’s football in Cambridgeshire contest the final for the 4th consecutive season, Cambridge United WFC, (or Cambridge WFC as they were previously) winning the trophy on each occasion. A rearranged final having been originally scheduled for 2 weeks ago, heavy rain before the match left standing water on the pitch and unsafe travelling conditions led to the match being unfortunately called off.

Road to the Final

Contrasting season’s for both sides, Cambridge United WFC had a poor start to the season failing to pick up a win and going out of the FA Women’s Cup, turned thing’s around going on an 8 match unbeaten run to climb up the FAWPL South east Division One table have finished top half with their best points haul in the league. Defending the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup entered the competition in the 2nd Round a home win was awarded against opponents Fulbourn Bluebirds.

Were on the road in the quarter finals away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies, played at Newmarket Town FC, Cambridge United WFC were far too strong on the day winning the game 9-0. On the the semi-finals and a good test as they were drawn against Cambridge City Ladies young guns hoping to win the Premiership title in their 1st season at that level. Cambridge United WFC won the game 6-2 to reach the final once again.

Playing in the league below Cambridge United WFC, in the ERWFL Premier Division it has been a tough season for Great Shelford Ladies have been near the bottom of the table all season unable to get a decent run of games in in a stop start season, as they look to bring in a few younger players to build for the future.

Were away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North side March Town United Ladies in the 2nd Round won the game 4-1 to make the quarter finals and a home draw against Premiership side Bar Hill Ladies. Won the game 5-1 to advance through to the semi-finals. Faced another Premiership side away from home with title ambitions ICA Sports Ladies who had beaten higher league opponents in the quarter finals knocking out Riverside Rovers Ladies in a penalty shoot out. No upset this time around with Great Shelford Ladies winning 3-1 to set up another final with Cambridge.

The venue Histon FC just off the A14, a good sized non-league stadium with great facilities a large main seated stand overlooking the dugouts, A bar situated at the back. Hot and col refreshments below. Covered stands all around which was just as well as the weather although dry at the start of the game was going to get very wet later, dark clouds filling the sky the wind starting to pick up as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Lucy Du Plooy, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Baker, Hannah Goodchild, Laura Mills, Becky Taylor, Faith Hewitt & Paige Logie.
subs – Tahnee Perfect, Carrie Bennett, Isabella Simmons, Monique Christian & Nicola Geoghan.

Great Shelford Ladies starting XI – Laura Gilbey (C), Katie Sims, Katie Webb, Cindy Ponder, Claire Creek, Sophie Lanham, Alison Wright, Jordanne Sillitoe, Sophie Hopkin, Kate Saunders & Rachael Pearce
subs – Natalie Shenton, Abigail Davies, Claire Andrews, Sophie Ugur & Chloe Houston.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Great Shelford to kick off the 1st half of the final wearing claret shirts with sky blue sides and sleeves against Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and amber socks. Jordanne Sillitoe is on the ball early played in down the right wing, driving forwards is stopped by Cambridge’s Lucy Du Plooy at left back.

Winning a free kick on half-way a chance for Great Shelford to play it long into the Cambridge area, Cindy Ponder to put the ball in, goes into the box bouncing Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook calls for it and claims.

Emma Jenkins is released into space on the right as Cambridge go forwards, Faith Hewitt putting her in to attack, bringing the ball on whips in an early cross long across the Great Shelford box, were Becky Taylor who previously played for Great Shelford is racing in, can’t quite get there to turn the ball home as it runs out of play for a goal kick. On the right side again Laura Mills carries the ball down the flank squaring a cross in towards Paige Logie coming over to receive the ball inside the box, lays it back to the face of the area with Laura Baker running in meets it hitting the shot 1st time sees her effort run wide across the goal.

Cambridge win a free kick on the left side inside the Great Shelford half the ball played high into the box is sent back out Cambridge get hold of it a strike from distance comes in, goes high and wide, a corner kick is signalled the ball taking a deflection on the way out. Mills on corner duty plays the ball into the centre of the box, Great Shelford’s Alison Wright rises to head the ball away.

Cambridge are finding space for their wide players to attack have the Great Shelford defence back tracking, Ponder and fellow centre back Claire Creek are dealing with most thing’s flung into the so far. In the centre Wright get’s her foot on the ball and carries it forwards a surge into the Cambridge area, captain Laura Bright gets across to put in the tackle and win the ball putting it out for a corner kick. Played long from the left goes over everyone gathered inside the six yard box out for a goal kick.

The wind has been getting stronger and in comes the rain as it starts to fall Baker nods the ball forwards in the midfield getting free plays the ball out to Mills wide right, driving up the pitch cuts back inside trying to take the ball beyond Ponder into the area to shoot the central defender stands firm winning the ball. Taylor coming forwards into the Great Shelford half sends the ball over the top with Mills racing forwards ahead of her meets the dropping ball on the volley drives wide.

GOAL! 25 minutes into the 1st half the chances have been building for Cambridge as the open the scoring, the ball is played forwards from midfield into the area, bouncing as it comes in Mills is looking to get onto the end of it, comes through to goalkeeper and captain Laura Gilbey, inside her six yard box under challenge manages to pluck it out of the air but drops it as she falls to the ground, the ball spilling out to the left, Baker is up with her and getting onto the end of the ball taps it home 1-0.

The Great Shelford defence breached Cambridge keep coming a powerful run from Logie moving into space on the right, turns and plays the ball across the face of the Great Shelford box Hewitt gets her foot over the shot to turn it towards goal, runs straight through to the gloves of Gilbey. A mazy run from Mills on the ball sees her come inside her shot from outside the box charged down by Ponder.

Great Shelford’s attackers haven’t had much opportunity to link up 1st half getting hold of the ball inside the Cambridge half, Katie Saunders plays the ball out to Rachael Pearce on the left pushes on then looks to put the ball square into Sophie Hopkin coming through the middle can’t quite take the ball on as it just evades her allowing Cambridge the chance to clear. Double change for Cambridge, Isabella Simmons and Tahnee Perfect coming on for Hewitt and Goodchild.

Wright is up inside the Cambridge box for a free kick sent in from halfway pulls away right trying to bring the ball down with defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt on her, squeezes a shot away, too many bodies to get through, takes a deflection sending it behind for the corner. Comes in central Crook comes and claims unchallenged. Again Wright is brought down as she tries to carry the ball forwards through the middle of the park, 30 yards out Sophie Lanham takes this one goes for goal gets the ball past the wall, runs wide of goal.

Taylor attacks up the left for Cambridge pushing on has Logie available inside the box coming out towards the ball, Taylor plays it into her Logie hits the shot on the turn looking to put the ball high into the back of the net, Gilbey has come to close her down gets her gloves on the ball to push it out of her area.

Late on in the 1st half, Hopkin gets free into space on the right a chance to take the ball on into the Cambridge box, entering the area evades Bright and shoots, coming across to cover her central defensive partner Burt makes a great block to deny the goal scoring opportunity. Change for Great Shelford late on too Lanham coming off and Sophie Ugur coming on.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Great Shelford Ladies

Cambridge lead one nil at the break, Laura Baker with the goal. A slender lead, they have had plenty of attacks, getting down the wings and could have had more. Great Shelford will be happy to have kept the scoreline down have worked hard to defend found it difficult to pose a threat up the other end. Cambridge get the 2nd half underway.

Sillitoe has been looking to take on players every time she has the ball at her feet get’s fouled by Du Plooy this time free kick awarded wide right around 25 yards out. Saunders is over the ball, plays in a great delivery towards the far post Great Shelford have two runners coming in, the ball lands favourably for the defender in between them and the ball is headed away.

Simmons has been lively in attack for Cambridge since coming on 1st half, seeing shots blocked from outside the area. The ball is played into her in a central position this time from the left side, going for the shot the ball takes a wicked deflection spinning away for a corner kick. Put in to the plays coming to attack the near post is met by a Cambridge head the ball turned across goal goes over the crossbar.

Bright is booked as she fouls Wright halfway inside the Cambridge half, the ball is played high into the Cambridge area, calls for hand ball as the ball drops for Burt then runs out of play, the crowd and Great Shelford bench have a better angle to see it than the referee on the other side of the play who awards a goal kick.

A shot from Taylor coming into the box from the left following good play between Simmons and Logie in front of the Great Shelford area rolling the ball into Taylor’s path she shoots the ball held by Gilbey. Perfect coming forwards lays the ball into Mills out on the right sends the cross in to the area, Taylor the target, Ponder gets her head on it 1st behind for a corner.

Paige Logie

GOAL! Mills to take the corner plays it in to the near post area the ball is headed away by Great Shelford outside the box Cambridge retrieve play the ball back out to Mills who stands the ball up into the area, near side again the ball is met by Simmons headed on into the six yard box where it is met by Logie who heads home from close range to make it 2-0.

Great Shelford make a double change Chloe Houston and Abigail Davies coming on for Hopkin and Katie Sims who is struggling with an earlier knock. Carrie Bennett comes on for Du Plooy for Cambridge.

Laura Baker scoring
twice in the final

GOAL! Cambridge extend their lead as they get bodies forwards have Taylor on the ball surges down the left wing, looking to get around the player in front of her and turn into the area, doing so squares the ball along the face of the box with Baker timing her run to perfection hitting the shot 1st time angles low and accurate inside the post squeezing past the diving keeper. 3-0.

Cambridge corner on the right the ball put high into the box Gilbey jumps to catch it looses it as she is knocked to the ground, Logie gets hold of the lose ball inside the six yard box, looks to smash it goalwards, Great Shelford block the ball landing for Gilbey to pull into her body, gets the decision this time around. Mills bursts into the Great Shelford area as the ball is played long, hits the shot on the run, Gilbey gets down sharply makes the save pushing the ball out to the left, Ponder is back help out and gets the ball up the field.

Logie comes off for Cambridge as they bring on Monique Christian. Ponder comes off for Great Shelford, Andrews going back on. Cambridge win a couple of corner kicks that sees the ball headed over the cross bar then put wide of goal. As the rain starts to fall heavily across the ground, Cambridge bring off Burt and Baker send Goodchild and Hewitt back into the action. A fantastic run by Sillitoe on the ball carrying it half the length of the pitch darting inside to run at the Cambridge area, goes to shoot the ball blocked by Goodchild.

More changes as the game goes into the final 10 minutes, Wright and Ugur off, Lanham and Pearce return to the pitch. Simmons and Hewitt both see shots from outside the box charged down by Creek and Webb. Jenkins getting forwards has a go from further out the ball is gathered by Gilbey. Closing minutes and a touching gesture from Cambridge late on named amongst tonight’s substitutes Nicola Geoghan is brought on replacing Taylor. Geoghan has unfortunately had to retire from the game having sustained a concussion early in the season and following doctors advice has decided to hang up her boot, highly thought of at the club she will be greatly missed on the field.

Hopkin back on for Great Shelford almost steals in behind the Cambridge defence but Crook has seen the threat and is out of her area early to close the ball down launch it clear. Last chance of the match falls of Geoghan up in attack the ball squared across the face of the area, she and Gilbey slide in for it Gilbey managing to claim the ball. That signals the end of the game and Cambridge celebrate retaining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup in the pouring rain. Their 1st trophy as United.

Were the dominant side on the night created plenty of chances although Great Shelford did well to keep the scoreline down to 1-0 at half-time had few chances to score themselves. Will be hoping for better thing’s next season although they won’t be doing it as Great Shelford Ladies. Histon FC will be their new home as they are to become Histon Ladies adopted by the men’s club helps to ensure a lasting future for the club.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup winners, Cambridge United WFC

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on retaining the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup once again. My thanks to Cambridgeshire FA’s Chris Abbott for his help tonight.

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Thirty Two

From Sunday 24th April

The final Sunday in April, spring might be trying to get here but it’s having a bit of trouble getting out of bed weather is decidedly hit and miss. This was a hugely important weekend of fixtures across the East, plenty of games seeing sides play out there final games of the 2015/16 campaign The Tuesday Round-Up is going to be getting alot shorter as we round things down. More matters settled across the leagues too. Three more league champions sorted out across the pyramid. A Cup Final… well Plate to and you’ll read about it all here starting with that final so let’s go.

FAWPL Plate Final

The FAWPL runs 2 cup competition the League Cup and League Plate a preliminary round determining which competition a club will contest at the start of the season. This Sunday saw the Plate Final being played at Keys Park, home of Hednesford Town FC. The two sides to reach the final did so by not conceding a single goal on the road to the final. A side from the FAWPL’s 2nd tier reaching the final for the 1st time with South East Division One side Enfield Town Ladies celebrating their 30th anniversary this year making it to their 1st ever national final to play FAWPL Southern Division side Coventry United Ladies.

Was a physical game right from the off, Enfield Town Ladies working hard putting a lot into closing down Coventry United Ladies. Didn’t stop them taking an early lead as Jade Brook turned the ball home arriving far post after Alison Hall headed a Cristina Torkildsen ball down across the face of goal inside the opening 5 minutes. Far from capitulate Enfield Town Ladies continued to press the ball winning a free kick, Kerrie Marlborough sweeping the ball out to the far post where it was met by Elizabeth Kent putting them back on level terms. Coventry United Ladies got themselves back in front right on the stroke of half-time Libby Piggott arriving inside the six yard box turning home coming following a cross from the left.

2-1 up at half-time the lead was 3-1 shortly after the break, the goal awarded from a corner kick is stopped on the goal line by a hand the crowd are silent fear a penalty, are surprised when a goal is awarded instead Torkildsen credited with it. Chances dried up for Enfield Town Ladies 2nd half, Coventry United Ladies kept coming on having more chances to score did eventually late on Marie Gauntlett bagging a brace the 1st a cheeky back heel inside the six yard box the 2nd an audacious lob from outside the box, 5-1 the final score Coventry United Ladies celebrate winning the FAWPL Plate Final. The whole match report from the SWF Blog can be found below this post.

Coventry United Ladies captain Natasha Lynch holding aloft the FAWPL Plate trophy

FAWPL Southern Division

The FAWPL Southern Division title has already been decided refer to Edition 30 of The Tuesday Round-Up for more detail Brighton & Hove Albion WFC securing the title 2 Sunday’s ago playing out their league fixtures. News from Brighton & Hove Albion WFC since then shocking not only Brighton fans but the football community in general with the news the club has sacked manager James Marrs with what will undoubtedly be one of the clubs biggest games in it’s history to come the FAWPL Play-off final at the end of may. Little details are available but a complaint made through the Sussex FA was made that led to the club taking immediate action.

On to this weekends football action several sides were again playing out their final fixtures across the 3 games taking place. Charlton Athletic Women were playing their final home game of the season playing 2nd from top playing 2nd from bottom with Forest Green Rovers Ladies the visitors. Charlton were in goal scoring form straight from the off going 3-0 up inside the opening 8 minutes, Kit Graham after 2 minutes, Charley Clifford on 5 minutes and Gemma Shepherd scoring the 3rd on 8 minutes. were 5-0 to the good at half-time Shepherd and Clifford both scoring again, Clifford completed her hat-trick 2 minutes into the 2nd half. Kerry Walklett pulled a goal back for Forest Green Rovers before Stefanie Simmons found the back of the net to get herself on the score sheet on 67 minutes, Shepherd had her hat-trick 5 minutes later. Charlotte Lee scoring a goal in the last 5 minutes to seal a 9-1 win a closing in on finishing runners up getting a huge boost as 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies lost. Now 5 points clear with on game to play away to Coventry United Ladies a win would guarantee 2nd.

A blow for 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies in their quest for the runners-up spot in the FAWPL Southern Division as they suffered defeat on the South Coast at Portsmouth FC Ladies playing their final league game of the season and last in charge for manager Perry Northeast. Finished with a win after a goalless 1st half Portsmouth’s Emma Sherwood put the home side into the lead on the 68th minute. Entering the final 10 minutes Portsmouth doubled the lead with Shannon Sievwright on target. Cardiff City Ladies pulled a goal back deep into injury time, not enough as Portsmouth ended with a win. Currently in 4th place are 3 points ahead of 5th placed Coventry United Ladies who have 2 to play against 2nd placed Charlton and 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies. Coventry United Ladies could finished 3rd themselves if they pick up 2 wins in their final 2 matches.

In the other game in the FAWPL Southern Division both sides were playing their final game of the season and it was another point on the board for bottom club Plymouth Argyle Ladies hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies. The visitors took the lead midway through the 1st half Cherrelle Albert scoring on 25 minutes. Plymouth Argyle hit back straight away Mollie Taylor getting them back on level terms within a minute of going behind. That was the score at half-time. Again Queens Park Rangers took the lead Juliette Denny firing in the goal 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Took Plymouth Argyle a bit longer to get back on level terms 20 minutes with Rebecca Atkins scoring on the 71st minute to see Plymouth Argyle take a point from their final FAWPL Southern Division match, for now.

FAWPL South East Division One

Last Sunday Crystal Palace Ladies celebrated winning the FAWPL South East Division One title and their reward for doing so was an opportunity to play at Selhurst Park. Arranged quickly with an earlier kick off time it was a fantastic opportunity for them but also opponents Cambridge United WFC visiting who were playing their final league game of the season. Formed a guard of honour for the new champions as they walked onto the pitch, Cambridge were missing a few 1st team regulars for the game went 1-0 down inside the 1st 5 minutes Abigail Igbavboa putting Crystal Palace Ladies into the lead. Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru gave away then saved the resulting penalty. 2nd half Crystal Palace Ladies went on to win 3-0, 2 goals scored by Rochelle Shakes still unbeaten this season with 2 games left to play. Made it a league and cup double winning the Surrey FA County Cup last Thursday.

Gillingham FC Ladies have picked up just the single point in their last 3 games going into this Sunday’s match at home to Ipswich Town Ladies who are enjoying a resurgence in the latter half of the season up to 6th place. Olivia Dixon and Amanda Crump put them 2-0 up in the 1st half before Lauren Davis scored for Gillingham to make it 2-1 at half-time. Fought back 2nd half getting back on level terms 5 minutes into the 2nd half Kallie Balfour getting onto the end of a ball flighted into the box to turn the ball into the back of the net. Lydia Wills came off the bench in the 77th minute and netted the winning goal 5 minutes later seeing Gillingham take all 3 points winning 3-2.

Has been a difficult and frustrating season for Old Actonians Ladies since the start of 2016 having been playing catch up in their fixtures, still are they. Had dropped down the table to 10th have more or less needed just a single win to be safe for weeks now but haven’t won a single league point in 2016, 8 games played. A home match this Sunday against Norwich City Ladies, Old Actonians took the lead in the 1st half but were pegged back with a minute of the 1st half to play as Ebony Wiseman scored for Norwich. 2nd half and the same again Old Actonians going in front, Norwich pulling it back to 2-2 with 2 minutes normal time to play Wiseman again on target. Old Actonians had time to find the winning goal late in injury time to celebrate finally securing FAWPL football for a 2nd season, a brace from Carla Williams and a Hannah Pearson goal sealing the win. That also confirms Lowestoft Town Ladies relegation as the 2nd bottom side with just the one fixture to play can no longer catch Old Actonians.

Eastern Regional Leagues

Another side playing FAWPL football next season will be Stevenage Ladies as they got the 3 points they needed at the weekend to win the ERWFL Premier Division title. To games left to play before Sunday both against the bottom clubs they were hosting Great Wakering Rovers Ladies who had found a little bit of form right at the end of their season, scored 2 goals however Stevenage Ladies scored 3 times to seal a 3-2 win, Amy Josland and a brace from Donna McGuigan seeing them crowned champions.

Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies on winning the ERWFL Premier Division title.

2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies had just the one game to play knew even a win might not be enough to pip Stevenage Ladies to the title but needed the 3 points to keep the pressure on hope local rival Great Wakering Ladies could do them a favour as they travelled to bottom club Great Shelford Ladies looking to finish with a win. Got the 3 points, Nicola Dunston, Nicole Farmer, Lindsey Morgan, Lauren Knight and Michelle Stoneman all getting their name on the scoresheet as Billericay Town Ladies won 5-0 end the season as runner-up for the 3rd successive season.

A successful league campaign for AFC Sudbury Ladies to finishing in 3rd place in the ERWFL Premier Division in their 1st season in the top division in the ERWFL. Have been up there pretty much all season too. Were at home for their final league match taking on Brentwood Town Ladies who have been struggling for results in the latter part of the season, the visitors found the back of the next 3 times, Chelcee Grimes, Carla Rose and Stacey Turner scoring, AFC Sudbury hit back with double that tally, a goal from Sophie Jeffery plus a brace from Stacey Teager, with substitute Mia Etheridge smashing home a hat-trick to see them end the season with a 6-3 win.

4th placed Colchester Town Ladies were playing their final league match of the season at home to Acle United Ladies. After a goalless 1st half it was Colchester Town who opened the scoring 2nd half Kerry Stimson putting the ball home on 58 minutes. Acle United having beaten Bungay Town Ladies in a friendly match 1-0 in midweek were frustrating Colchester Town all game battling hard, earned a point late in the game a Amber Rowland was fouled inside the box. Joanne Hooper scoring from the penalty spot. Colchester Town can no finish no lower than 5th and have the final of the ERWFL League Cup to prepare for which although I have no confirmation of I believe to be on Sun 22nd May will let everyone know as soon as i do keep an eye on the twitter feed.

Elsewhere in the ERWFL it was the semi-final stage of the Division One Cup. Writtle Ladies were beaten in the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup last Thursday, are into their 2nd final of the season as they travelled to Offley & Stopsley Ladies on Sunday. goals from Courtney Clark, Abigail Fry, Amelia Murphy and Charlotte Walker seeing them win the match 4-2 to reach the final. Their opponents will be Colney Heath Ladies after they beat won their semi-final against Hoddesdon Owls Ladies, one goal enough to put them into their 2nd successive final having contested the ERWFL League Plate as it was last season. Christina Freestone the goal hero scoring to send them through. Again date and details of the final will be published on twitter as soon as I have them.

Norfolk

The games are running out in Norfolk Women’s Division One and despite a hit and miss fixture schedule it’s still all to play for as 3 sides remain in contention for the league title. Leaders Wymondham Town Ladies and 2nd placed Brandon Town Ladies wren’t in action (Brandon since the end of February whilst waiting for the others to catch up) 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies being on of those are now a point behind Brandon with a game in hand after a convincing 9-2 win at home to Bungay Town Ladies. Captain Rebekah Lake hitting home 4 goals with Charlotte Groves close behind with a hat-trick, Alice Ford and Cara Anderson also on target. Nicola Hazell and Emily Leach with the goals for Bungay Town Ladies. All 3 can still win the title although Wymondham Town Ladies are in pole position one game to play win it and Brandon Town can’t catch them, Thorpe United have 2 to play tough ones to against Brandon Town and 4th placed Aylsham FC Ladies if they pick up the points and Wymondham Town win their last match it’ll be down to goal difference Wymondham Town currently have a +6 advantage.

Lynn Ladies were celebrating this week as they start a new chapter in the clubs young history formed the season before and winning promotion to Norfolk Women’s Division One they have now formed a partnership with Kings Lynn Town FC (The Linnets) and will be playing under their banner next season a huge boost for women’s football in the West of Norfolk in a county that has traditional been dominated from sides in the east and Norwich area, in a county that still has plenty of room for expansion in the women’s game. Will be playing their home fixtures from now on at Lynn Sports 3G surface. Played there this Sunday with Fakenham Town Ladies the visitors. An action packed 1st 45 minutes saw Lynn Ladies take a 4-2 lead into the break. A brace from Shelley Woods, and a goal each from Emma Woods and Brittany Barbour. Nina Batchelor and Sian Sands scoring for Fakenham Town Ladies. 2nd half a different story with just one more goal scored Jodie Hopkins with the goal.

Just the one game being played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with the fixture list very nearly completed. Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies already promoted secured the title last Sunday and were looking to go the whole season unbeaten in the league were away to 2nd bottom side Morley Ladies. Won the game 5-1 to finish with a record of 13 wins and a draw. Have the final of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final to look forwards to playing Ipswich Town Ladies at Portman Road and the date of the final has been brought forwards to Monday May the 9th with a 7:00pm KO.

Gorleston FC Ladies are the champions in Norfolk Women’s Division Three, winning the title and promotion in their 1st season as a club. Winning all 12 of their league games played so far this season over hauled leaders Harleston Ladies last weekend and can no longer be caught at the top. A double header with Dereham Town Ladies they won 6-0 away last weekend were at home this time around, goals from Melissa Anderson, Molly Sims, Samantha Hunn and Leanne Duffett sealing a 4-0 win as they look forwards to playing in Norfolk Women’s Division Two next season.

Congratulations to Gorleston FC Ladies on winning the Norfolk Women’s Division Three title.

Suffolk

The Suffolk Women’s Division has been a highly competitive league all season the title race hotly contested all the way, but after this weekend’s results it is down to a 2 horse race with one side playing out their fixtures in front looking back knowing they other can catch them up.

Brantham Athletic Ladies leading the way finish their league matches with an 8-1 victory away to bottom side Ipswich Phoenix Ladies. A brace of goals each for Lucy Dunnett, Kirsten Hutchings and Jessica Ryan along with a goal each for Jo Hazelton and Shanice Leeks seeing them finish on a high can only watch now.

That is because 2nd placed Copleston Ladies won a crucial game in their quest for the Suffolk Women’s Division title having climbed up to that position last Sunday having had games in hand on everyone all season still do were away to Witnesham Wasps Ladies this Sunday one goal saw the 3 points won coming in the 2nd half Jade Horne getting it as Copleston Ladies won 1-0. Have 2 games left to play home and away against the bottom 2 sides two wins are needed get them and they will over take Brantham Athletic Ladies and win the league title.

Had led for a good portion of the season so East Bergholt United Ladies may well feel disappointed with a 3rd place finish falling away at the end they finish their league fixtures with a win away to Leiston St Margarets Ladies, Jessica Clark and Jessica Oxlade both scoring in 2-0 win.

Cambridgeshire

ICA Sports Ladies are once again the new leaders of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. going a point clear at the top over Cambridge United WFC Reserves have a game in hand on them to. Were away to Bar Hill Ladies at the weekend edged the 3 points with a 2-1 win, Louise Barbour scoring both goals for ICA Sports Ladies. Anna Jephson on target for Bar Hill Ladies. Has all tightened up at the top of the Premiership with a handful of games left. Both ICA Sports Ladies and Cambridge United WFC Reserves have 3rd placed Cambridge City Ladies closing them down.

Games in hand on the top two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Cambridge City Ladies beat Cambridge University Women at home during the week 7-0 and followed that up with a 6-0 at home this Sunday against bottom side Fulbourn Bluebirds. Lauren Ambrose hitting 2 goals into the back of the net with a goal a piece for Grace Stanley, Lauren Tomlinson, Philippa Witherspoon and Carla Penny. Are now 3 points behind leaders ICA Sports Ladies with 4 games left to play 2 more than the leaders play Bar Hill Ladies during the week and could be the new leaders going into next Sunday’s fixtures.

In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North, there are still plenty of games to be played leaders Bourne Ladies remain 4 points clear of 2nd placed March Town United Ladies who were awarded a home win against Downham Town Ladies this Sunday. Bourne Ladies were at home to Tydd St Marys Ladies had thumped the side bottom of the table 14-0 last Sunday were no less rampant in front of goal this time around. Tracey Duxbury-Mead scoring 8 times herself on the day. Toni McHamilton was also banging in the goals getting 5. A brace each for Stephanie Starr and Charlotte Ayers with a goal each for Rossana Baker, Jemma Smith and Catherine Dougall seeing them win 20-0 see’s them with a huge goal difference over their rivals. 3rd placed Wisbech Town Ladies were also awarded a home win at the weekend against Stamford Ladies.

A clash between 1st and 3rd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South at the weekend with leaders Park Ladies travelling to Milton Ladies. A brace from Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks plus a goal for Sam Cousins saw Milton Ladies win the game 3-0. The 3 points seeing the gap to Park Ladies closed to 9 points MIlton have 3 games more to play than Park Ladies and with their goal differences virtually the same it’s all still up for grabs in the league. A game in hand on Park Ladies, 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies could have capitalised on Park Ladies defeat to Milton closed the 5 point gap between them as they travelled to Isleham United Ladies. Georgia Rebane and Sasha Smith scoring for St Ives they had to settle for a point as Isleham United scored twice themselves to see the game end all square at 2-2, Shona Kelly and Rebecca Webb on target. To get the fixtures played Comberton Ladies and Riverside Rovers Reserves were playing a double header this Sunday at Comberton, Riverside Rovers Reserves winning both matches one 5-0 the other 2-0.

Essex

Hullbridge Sports Ladies are the new champions of the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Formed two seasons ago it is now back to back title wins for the club. Went into their final match of the season away to Hutton Ladies Reserves knowing a point would be enough to take the title lift them above Chelmsford City Ladies and win the title. Brogan Kelly opened the scoring for Hullbridge Sports, Katie Hartigan and Christina Fragnito giving them a 3-0 lead, Hutton Ladies Rerserves pulling it back to 3-1 before Kelly scored again to make it 4-1 and see Hullbridge Sports lead the way for the 1st time this season, the only time that really matters on at the finish.

Congratulations to Hullbridge Sports Ladies on your title win.

One other game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division saw bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies beaten 5-1 at home by Eastern Avenue Ladies who secure a 4th place finish in the table.

The Essex Women’s Division One campaign will run a little longer with more sides competing in the league, Harlow Ladies have led the way all season played 15 league games to date have won them all earning another huge win away to 9th placed Valley Green on Sunday racking up a 21-1 win. Abbie Bensted baging herself a double hat-trick in the match, were hat-tricks to for Nene McInerney and Phillipa Stephens. Catherine Kelly and Rebecca Watson hit 2 goals each Tia Dye and Phoebe McMurray and Riley Bennett also on the scoresheet whilst Chloe Ring set the ball rolling with the opening goal. Promotion to the Essex Women’s Premier Division long since assured need just one more win to finish as Division One Champions.

Alresford Colne Rangers climb up into 3rd place in the Division One table with a 3-2 win at home against 5th placed Wickford Town Ladies on Sunday.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

After the weekends results Hartford Town Ladies remain go 3 points clear at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One playing away at 2nd bottom Sandy Ladies, Laveena Betts opened their goals scoring on 20 minutes. Freya Rampley also scoring in the 1st half. Lisa Kline Becky Shephard, Kerry Oldham plus 2 goals for Bilge Taspinar saw them win comfortably 7-2. Chloe Reeves with both the goals for Sandy Ladies. In the other game played in Division One Letchworth Garden City Eagles beat Garston Ladies 2-1 to move above them into 5th on the table.

In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two, leaders Sharnbrook WFC have secured a top two finish and are almost certainly going to go up as champions have one game left to play away to Garston Ladies FC 96 and need to avoid a 14-0 defeat. That is the margin 2nd placed Houghton Athletic Ladies are behind them as they celebrate winning a 2nd successive promotion. Were away to AFC Kempston Rovers this Sunday needing the win to make certain of a 2nd placed finish. Emma Hawkes hit the ball into the back of the net for 4 goals with Ciara Craig close behind with a hat-tick, Becky Sullivan scoring too as they won the game 8-1 to wrap up the season. Sophie Keech with the goal for AFC Kempston Rovers. The table still shows Houghton Athletic Ladies in 3rd with a game left to play however it is a formality as they have been awarded the 3 points to put them on 36.

A strong finish to the season for Hitchin Town Ladies who end up in 3rd place a point behind Houghton Athletic Ladies. Were away to Garston Ladies FC 96 for their last league match of the season, Garston’s promotion push faltering at the end as Hitchin Town Ladies too all 3 points with a 6-2 win, Emma Chaffey and Rachael Jones both scoring 2 goals with Kayleigh Saunders and Helen Coster also getting goals. Lilly Clark with both the goals for Garston Ladies FC 96. A 3rd place finish may yet be enough to see Hitchin Town Ladies go up as the leagues could face adjustment over the summer.

Two games played in Beds & Herts Division Three at the weekend a clash between the top 2. With Hitchin Belles moving 3 points clear at the top over Evergreen Ladies following a 3-0 win at Evergreen. Had moved level on points during the week with a 2-7 win at Crawley Green Ladies. Emily Field, Shannon Page and Charlotte Peters with the goals. Now 3 points in front of Evergreen Ladies with a game more to play. Evergreen Ladies have 2 games left to play are 3 points ahead of 3rd placed Icknield Ladies who also have 2 left to play. Icknield Ladies winning 3 points at home on Sunday with a 4-1 win against bottom side Shefford Town & Campton Ladies.

That concludes Edition Thirty Two of The Tuesday Round-Up, several teams playing out their league fixtures will be a shorter edition next time around and a few more thing’s will be sorted out. Lots of midweek fixtures happening this week too so might even be sorted before then, however whatever is sorted with be rounded up right here so until next week thanks for reading.

FAWPL Plate Final – Enfield Town Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was at Hednesford Tow FC, Keys Park ground on Sunday to watch the FAWPL Plate Final between Enfield Town Ladies and Coventry United Ladies. The whole report as featured on the blog is listed below.

Cup Final Report – Enfield Town Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

This Sunday’s match report the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from Hednesford Town FC for this season FAWPL Plate Final, with Enfield Town Ladies taking on Coventry United Ladies.

A special occasion for both sides, Enfield Town Ladies are celebrating their 30th anniversary year and this is the 1st time in their history they have reached a National Cup Final. Coventry United Ladies previously Coventry City Ladies now in partnership with Coventry United FC are into League Plate Final for the 1st time. Both sides have made it all the way to the final of the competition without conceding a goal.

Road to the Final

Enfield Town Ladies playing their football in FAWPL South East Division One were due to play St Nicholas LFC from FAWPL South West Division One in the 1st Round of the League Plate however that fixture never happened and they were awarded a home win. In the 2nd Round were drawn away to fellow South East Division One rivals Denham United Ladies a single goal sealing the win to put them into the quarter finals where they faced a tough away trip to higher division opponents Loughborough Foxes WFC laying the FAWPL Northern Division again it was the single goal that saw the game won coming late on scored by Regan Coleman. Semi-finals and Enfield Town Ladies were back at home but again faced strong opponents from the FAWPL Northern Division again Newcastle United WFC beat them 2-0 at the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium (think she was celebrating some anniversary or another this week too) to book reach their 1st ever National Final.

Coventry United Ladies had an away trip to Maidenhead United Ladies in the FAWPL Plate 1st Round, newly promoted to the South West Division One, won the game 5-0 to progress to the 2nd Round away again to play South East Division One leaders and now title winners, Crystal Palace Ladies who will be joining Coventry United Ladies in the FAWPL Southern Division next season. Coventry United Ladies won the match 2-0. On to the quarter finals and at home playing Northern Division One side, Liverpool Marshalls Feds, a single goal from Helen Demody the difference as they book their place in the semi-finals and an away trip to the South West to play Keynsham Town Ladies racking up a 7-0 scoreline to reach the final. Have a mean defence not only in this competition but in the FAWPL Southern Division too conceding just 15 goals in the league to date

The venue for today’s FAWPL League Plate Final, Keys Park home of Hednesford Town FC hosting a cup final double, having seen the FAWPL Reserve Cup Final played between Bradford City WFC Reserves and Blackburn Rovers Ladies Reserves earlier in the day. A stand alone ground on the outskirts of the tow with business and retail centres nearby the ground is recently built boasting a good sized carpark before the main stand featuring numerous suites and a function room behind a large seated stand, covered stands all around the main and one end seated the others terraced. Hot and cold refreshments available on the day. The weather started off quite bright and sunny but grew decidedly chilly in the afternoon as kick-off for the final approached with some rain in the air. On to the match action.

Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Bethan Davies, Holly Brandon, Cally Browne, Claire Ford, Kerrie Marlborough, Nuala McKevitt, Elizabeth Kent, Chloe Bassett, Ayse Mustafa, Victoria Lewis & Regan Coleman (C).
subs – Beth Demery, Sheryce Slater, Laura Elias, Alena Beganovic & Eliza Diaz.

Coventry United Ladies starting XI – Susan Wood, Annabel Johnson, Nikki Miles, Natasha Lynch (C), Anna Wilcox, Jade Brook, Libby Piggott, Amber Hughes, Alison Hall, Marie Gauntlett & Cristina Torkildsen.
subs – Callan Barber, Ellena Rollason, Gina Burton, Sami Ryder & Charlotte McElroy.

Vocal support for both teams as the players line up before the final, No Ashleigh Neville or Helen Dermody in their squad, it’s Coventry to get the FAWPL Plate Final underway wearing red shirts, green shorts and socks, with Enfield lining up in an all yellow kit with black across the left shoulder on their shirts, names on the back a special memento for a special occasion in the clubs history. Coventry get the ball out to Alison Hall on the left side looking to take players on gets the ball in across the face of the area, Enfield clear it. Christina Torkildsen playing up front wins a corner taking it sends the ball into the area Kerrie Marlborough gets a firm header on the ball to get it away.

GOAL! The last thing Enfield wanted to do was concede an early goal, but they do exactly that give away a free kick right side just beyond the centre circle, Cristina Torkildsen plays the ball long towards the far post area Alison Hall meets it with her head sending the ball across the face of goal dropping at the opposite post Jade Brook is the player arriving sliding it to connect with the ball and send into the back of the net 1-0.

Jade Brook opens the scoring for Coventry United Ladies in the League Plate Final

A set back 5 minutes played, Enfield are working hard to close Coventry down on the ball, not easy as they move it quickly. Nuala McKevitt plays the ball out to the right side picking out Chloe Bassett, pushing on to get to the corner, flashes a cross back into the box, can’t pick anyone out. Free kick for Coventry inside the Enfield half in front of the centre circle captain Natasha Lynch to take sends it long with Hall giving chase, Marlborough goes with her and defends putting the ball out for a throw.

Lynch defends in er own box as Bassett rolls her marker on the right and pushes down the wing again squaring the ball Lynch intercepts. Enfield keep the pressure on around the box are awarded a free kick just outside the box right side corner. Marlborough puts the ball in towards the far post, Brook gets to it 1st almost sends Annabel Johnson away up the right, Ayse Mustafa back defending from the set-piece get’s to her and tackling wins the ball.

Regan Coleman on the ball for
Enfield Town Ladies

A powerful run on the ball from Torkildsen on the right as Coventry attack sees her fire in shot from the angle rising as it flies towards goal, Enfield goalkeeper Bethan Davies throws up her gloves and tips the ball over the bar a corner awarded. The rain that fell at the start of the game has added a little extra zip to the playing surface. The game is playing at a high tempo Enfield closing Coventry down all over the pitch, a little too closely sometimes free kicks are being given away. Marking Torkildsen, Enfield’s Claire Ford gives away a free kick outside the area to the left side. The ball fired into the crowded six yard area is cleared by McKivett.

GOAL! Enfield get themselves back on level terms scoring to make it 1-1 midway through the half. Captain Regan Coleman leading the line is bundled over on the right side 20 yards out, players come forwards as Marlborough goes over to take, sends the ball out towards the far post area a trio of yellow shirts are their to attack the ball, Elizabeth Kent is amongst them the ball is sent into the back of the net and Kent leads the charge in celebration having scored in the Final.

Scoring in a Final! Can’t beat it! Elizabeth Kent races out of the Coventry area with
her Enfield team mates after making it 1-1

Amber Hughes coming in from the right side dribbles the ball past 2 Enfield players before being fouled by Kent. Ford clears the resulting free kick. Marie Gauntlett is free in space on the left as Coventry press forwards the ball is played out to her driving on whips the cross into the box, too close to Davies the keeper grabs hold of the ball. Up the other end Coventry goalkeeper Susan Wood does the same claiming an Enfield cross from Bassett as she links up well with Holly Brandon on the right.

Regan Coleman wins the ball against Jade Brook

A corner to Enfield on the right, Nikki Miles defends against Bassett as Coleman knocks the ball down to her. Bassett battling to get a cross in puts in a dangerous ball in central on the goal line Wood is under pressure players all around her manages to get a fist on the ball tip it over her crossbar. The 2nd corner from the left is headed wide by Ford at the near post. The rain has started to fall heavily again. Torkildsen wins Coventry a free kick left side of the Enfield area taking it her delivery his initially cleared by Ford falling outside the area the ball is sent back in Davies punches it behind for a corner kick. Get’s her gloves on the ball again to punch the corner out of her area the ball runs out to Hughes 20 yards out, looks to curl a shot into the top corner, flies a yard over the crossbar.

An enthusiastic crowd are getting behind both sides, seeing challenges coming in and not happy with some referring decisions. Lynch does well up against Victoria Lewis as Cally Browne looks to play the ball forwards down the left side getting in front of the ball and Lewis as the ball travels into the box, allows Wood the chance to come sliding in and claim the ball.

GOAL! Blow for Enfield right on the stroke of half-time as Coventry get themselves back in front. Coventry stretch the play from right to left across the Enfield area, Torkildsen holding the ball up before sending a great ball out to Miles on the left, picking it up she drives to the byline before squaring the ball across the front of the Enfield goal. Again there is a player sliding in for Coventry this time it’s Piggott throwing herself at the ball inside the six yard box to turn it into the back of the net 1-2.

Half-time Enfield Town Ladies 2-1 Coventry United Ladies

A blow for Enfield Town Ladies conceding a goal right at the end of the 1st half, have battled hard, over zealous at times, but having gotten back into the match it is unfortunate to go into the dressing room behind. Coventry have dealt with Enfield on the large part fairly well not getting caught up in the physical battle, looking to spread the play get players forwards from all parts of the pitch. Enfield get the 2nd half underway.

The physical battle resumes and the ball is hotly contested in the middle, both Coleman and Torkildsen getting drawn back to help their midfielders win the ball. The ball comes to Lewis on the left for Enfield whips a ball into the area from the right with Coleman providing the run, can’t quite connect with the ball as it flashes across her path. Hughes plays Torkildsen in as she finds room in behind on the right taking the ball down to the byline, Mustafa makes up the ground to track back and sliding in puts the ball out for a corner.

GOAL! 3 minutes into the 2nd half and Coventry extend their lead scoring from the corner kick put in from the right, what happens next causes a great deal of confusion amongst the watching crowd. Is a great delivery by Torkildsen whipping the ball in central close to goal bodies all around the ball is attacked turned towards goal falling back Ford appears to throw up a hand to stop the ball keep it out, silence falls the crowd caught by surprise when the referee points to the circle awarding a goal to cue some delayed cheering. Brook is credited with the final touch scoring her 2nd of the game, Coventry lead 1-3.

A chance for Enfield to pull a goal back straight away as Coleman gets hold of the ball wide left and sends a cross into the six yard box far side Bassett is arriving gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box sends the ball over the bar. Gauntlett sends Hughes through down the right, chasing forwards whips the ball towards the area, Ford cuts the cross out Lewis back to clear the loose ball.

Nuala McKevitt heads the ball away with Coventry’s
Cristina Torkildsen looking to get around her

Both crowd and both benches are getting wound up by some decisions being made by the officials, a robust 50/50 between McKevitt and Brook in the middle sees to 2 square up, is quickly broken up, but having missed the incident the referee has a word with his fellow officials and settles for a word with the two captains. Not long after Coventry’s Piggott comes off 2nd best in a challenge and coming off is replaced by Callan Barber. Coventry go on the attack on the left the ball played inside 20 yards out to Gauntlett is clipped as she knocks the ball on the advantage played as the ball comes to Brook just outside the D, smashes a low shot wide of goal. Play is stopped so Gauntlett can receive treatment.

Kerrie Marlborough heads the ball clear of her area for Enfield Town Ladies

Enfield make a change bringing on Alena Beganovic for Lewis. Anna Wilcox bombs forwards from centre back for Coventry racing over halfway looks to play the ball on release Torkildsen offering the run through the middle, almost picks her out as she bursts into the area can’t bring the ball under control her touch taking it on to Davies who claims the ball. Coventry are enjoying more possession as the 2nd half goes on Enfield attacks limited, Gauntlett puts the ball into Johnson just inside the area, looks to shoot, McKevitt back defending blocks the ball is deflected towards goal high at the far post Hall fouls as she climbs on the back of a defender trying to head the ball down. Enfield make a 2nd change taking off Browne and bringing on Beth Demery as they look to go 3 at the back and try to get more bodies forwards find a goal.

GOAL! The goal however comes at the other end as Coventry take a 4-1 A pacey counter attack stretch Enfield as Torkildsen sends Hughes away into space down the right, taking the ball all the way to the byline cuts the cross back into the six yard box with Gauntlett closing in. The ball looks to have just evaded her, but Gauntlett adjusts well to back heels the ball turn it back across goal, Davies throws own a leg to try and stop the ball gets a touch but not enough to take it around the far post as it rolls over the line.

Coventry bring Brook off, who was yellow carded earlier and send on Gina Burton. Marlborough comes off for Enfield too with Sheryce Slater entering the action.

GOAL! Having gotten one goal, Gauntlett goes and makes it a quick fire double as both sides adjust with substitutions just being made the ball is put up towards Gauntlett 25 yards out right of the area, hits the ball high into the air lobbing the keeper as the ball sails over her and drops into the back of the net 1-5.

Good defending from Ford for Enfield going with Gauntlett into the area as she looks to make it a quick fire hat-trick, gets a toe to the ball to get it back to Davis cleared out to the middle a shot comes straight back in the ball deflected wide for a corner. Final change for Coventry as Hughes is rested and Ellena Rollason before the corner is taken. The set-piece is put in from the right side, Miles rises highest in the box heads the ball wide. Late into the game Johnson still has the energy to get forwards sends a looping cross out to the far side with Rollason there to meet it puts her header behind goal.

The final whistle blows and Coventry United Ladies celebrate winning the FAWPL Plate Final beating Enfield Town Ladies 5-1. Were made to work for the victory but in the end their quality told two goals scored either side of the break putting them in control of the game adding 2 goals late on as Enfield tired 2nd half having put so much effort into the game. Battled hard getting a goal but as the final wore on chances up the other end dried up.

Coventry United Ladies, celebrating winning the FAWPL Plate Final

Congratulations to Coventry United Ladies on winning the FAWPL Plate.

Essex Women’s County Cup Final

This Thursday the action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from Thurrock FC for the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup, played between C&K Basildon Ladies the current holders and Writtle Ladies.

Cup Final Report – C&K Basildon Ladies v Writtle Ladies

A trip down south into Essex tonight just off the M25 at junction 30 to Thurrock FC to watch this seasons Women’s County Cup Final between C&K Basildon Ladies & Writtle Ladies.

C&K Basildon Ladies are the leading women’s football side right now. Newly promoted to the FAWPL Southern Division, have had a solid debut season, with one league game left to play are comfortably in mid-table. Are the current holders of the Essex Women’s County Cup beating Billericay Town Ladies 7-1 in last seasons final. Opponents Writtle Ladies are a side very much on the rise, formed 3 seasons ago have won successive league title in Essex then again this time around in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Division One East with a 100% winning league record over those 3 seasons to date have to games left with the title in the bag.

Road to the Final

As defending cup holders C&K Basildon Ladies were given a bye until the quarter finals of the competition where they were drawn at home to Essex Premier Division title hopefuls Hullbridge Sports Ladies, a comfortable victory on the day a 10-0 win easing them into the semi-finals where they we away to ERWFL Premier Division side Colchester Town Ladies, who did well to hold Basildon to a 0-0 during the 90 minutes to send the game into extra-time. Basildon went on to find the back of the net 3 times to reach their 2nd successive Essex Women’s County Cup Final.

Writtle Ladies entered the competition in the 2nd round were at home to Silver End United Ladies promoted with them to the ERWFL Division One East as Essex Premier Division runners-up last season. Writtle were the stronger on the day recording a 3-1 win to progress to the quarter-finals where they were to face an away trip to ERWFL Premier Division side Billericay Town Ladies came out the wrong side of a nine goal thriller losing 5-4. Billericay Town Ladies went on to win the semi-final against local rivals Brentwood Town Ladies but were later removed from the competition for fielding an ineligible players against Writtle who were reinstated to the competition to face Brentwood Town Ladies themselves at home, the ERWFL Premier Division side at the time in a poor run of form, Writtle took full advantage winning 5-0 to find themselves in the final.

The venue for tonight’s final Thurrock FC just off the M25 at junction 30, a large non-league ground plenty of parking the ground is overlooked by the Thurrock Hotel has a large covered seated stand on one side covered seating and terraces all around a clubhouse and bar. Refreshments hot and cold on offer. A large pitch with railing all around.

Turrock FC’s main stand overlooked by the Thurrock Hotel

C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Sophie Blowers, Kerry Stimson, Karen Stephanou, Claire Lacey (C), Rebecca Smith, Hannah Porter, Katherine Huggins, Zoe Rushen, Amy Nash, Lily Mellors & Karissa Rodney.
subs – Nicola Carty, Laura Bryant & Kayleigh Xidhas

Writtle Ladies starting XI – Rhianna Farr, Amy Simmons, Kayleigh Franklin, Lynette Jones, Leanne Stubbings, Mia Brisley, Hannah Mold, Abigail Fry (C), Georgina Tricker, Courtney Clarke & Sophie Vale
subs – Beth Griffiths, Amelia Murphy, Faith Candice, Caroline Brown & Charlotte Walker.

(roll on roll of substitutes)

Writtle to kick off the final 1st half wearing green and white horizontal shirts, green shorts and socks with Basildon lined up opposite in an all red strip with white trim. Were without experienced centre back Stacey Little who required surgery on a fractured cheek bone sustained during last Sunday’s FAWPL Southern Division match away to Lewes Ladies. Basildon get hold of the ball from the kick off and look to play it out to Amy Nash attacking down the left side running into Writtle’s Kayleigh Franklin the ball goes out for a throw.

A counter attack from Writtle sees them break down the left side, Amy Simmons playing the ball on for Sophie Vale moving out to the left he squares the ball into Georgina Tricker, just beyond her outside the box she keeps going trying to get into the box as the ball runs on for Courtney Clarke central, rolling the ball into the area for Tricker to chase, Basildon captain Claire Lacey puts in a great defensive tackle to win the ball.

GOAL! Playing higher league opposition the last thing you want to do early on is concede an early goal, however Writtle do exactly that as Basildon hit them on the break the ball going left is played on to Nash who puts it forwards rapidly with striker Karissa Rodney on the move to get in behind the Writtle defence can’t catch her as surges towards the area with goalkeeper Rhianna Farr starting to come, Rodney goes for the early shot, plenty of pace on the ball as she fires it past the advancing keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

Rodney and Nash link up again a couple of minute later, Rodney providing the pass this time putting the ball into Nash as she reaches the Writtle area left side knocks the ball on a yard to open up the space for a shot puts her strike straight at Farr, who parries the ball down before gathering at the 2nd attempt. Basildon have Writtle on the back foot, Lily Mellors takes the ball off left back Mia Brisley and races forwards getting in behind has Rodney moving into the box plays the ball on the diagonal into her, looking to hook her foot over the ball to turn the shot on target, sees her effort smashed against the bottom of the goal post before rolling back out Lynette Jones clearing for Writtle.

Writtle are looking to get forwards themselves, Vale with Simmons to the left, Tricker to the right with Clarke a little deeper are probing trying to find away in behind Basildon’s back line full-backs Kerry Stimson and Karen Stephanou more often than not challenging and winning the ball. When Simmons does get the better of Stimson tries to pick out Vale just on the edge of the box Hannah Porter get’s back from midfield to put in the challenge to reclaim the ball. At the other end the Writtle defence is busy as Mellors steals in behind on the right looks to pick out Rodney coming through the centre, Jones does well to get a foot in front of her to take the ball away from her concede the corner. Is played short with Stimson coming forwards to receive whipping the cross into the box Rodney rises turns her headed ball down towards the far stick Writtle block/clear off the line.

GOAL! Basildon go 2 goals up a strike from distance by Mellors who finds the ball presented to her from a kick out of the area, 25 yards out wastes no time pulling the trigger, good connection with the ball right side of the D lifts her shot over the keeper and into the back of the net 2-0.

Tricker attacks down the right flank for Writtle bringing the ball deep into Basildon territory sends the cross in dissecting the area heading far post, Simmons is closing down the space trying to get there to turn the ball home, Stimson is aware of her presence behind her and sends the ball on out of play for a corner kick.

A free kick for Basildon wide on the left inside the Writtle half the ball is played in towards the front post with Lacey up from the back the target, stooping to head the ball try and turn it on into the net, lifts her effort wide and over across the goal face. The game is relentless Writtle go forwards lose the ball, Basildon look a danger every time they counter attack Rodney and Mellors both getting in behind. Nash left rolls the ball to Zoe Rushen unmarked outside the box, gets the strike all wrong lifting it high and over for a goal kick. Rodney onto a Katherine Huggins ball in the middle finds an extra gear to race clear into the box, Farr comes and slicing towards her comes away with the ball in her possession.

A great save and good sized slice of luck sees Farr keep Basildon from getting a 3 goal advantage. The move coming from what looks a nothing ball played long across field out to the right, chasing the ball to the by line, Mellors retrieves and send a cross in to the near post, Rodney has gambled and made up the ground, looks to help the ball on lift it across Farr who flashes a glove up to try and stop the ball parries it up turning it behind her a narrowly wide of the post, could have gone anywhere the corner is conceded. A great delivery from the set-piece the ball coming in with pace is met by Lacey drills her bullet header wide of the post.

Writtle’s Brisley bringing the ball under control left lays it into Clarke in the middle of the park, spreading play out to Simmons on the wing she looks to play a high ball into the area for Vale and Tricker to attack, finds neither as Rebecca Smith heads clear. Writtle come again captain Abigail Fry getting forwards on right has Leanne Stubbings in support inside gives her the ball, closing down on the right side of the Basildon area sees her shot charged down. Free kick on half way from Writtle goes long looking for Simmons edge of the box can’t get her head on the ball, but Writtle get an unexpected corner as goalkeeper Blowers slices the back pass rolled into out behind goal. There are cries for handball as the ball fired in to the area is cleared by Stimson but the referee isn’t interested.

Basildon bring the ball on Rodney with a shot from outside the box plants the ball straight at Farr. Mellors and Brisley go shoulder to shoulder into the area right of goal the Basildon attacker getting a shot away fires the ball wide across the Writtle six yard box. Half time is rapidly approaching.

GOAL! Basildon get their 3rd goal of the match attacking down the left side an early release from Nash puts Mellors through in behind coming in from the left side this time enters the area, Farr comes towards her drops as Mellors pulls the trigger gets a glove to the ball turning it wide across her six yard box, Mellors goes after it reclaiming at the far post to turn the ball home. 3-0.

Half-time C&K Basildon Ladies 3-0 Writtle Ladies

Had just put in notes at 2-0 Writtle aren’t out of it were starting to create a few openings them conceded the 3rd goal on the stroke of half-time leaving them with alot to do if they have any hope of getting back into the match. Basildon have been too strong getting in behind repeatedly could have added more goals to their total 1st half and if the 2nd half continues like the 1st then you can only see them going to score more goals.

It’s Basildon to kick off the 2nd half. Writtle press them forcing them to play the ball all the way back to their keeper, Blowers. Basildon attack the ball from Porter releasing Mellors she is forced wide by Jones out right side of the area Mellors tries to pick out Rushen inside the box, Brisley makes the interception cutting off the cross and playing the ball out of defence.

Basildon push at the start of the 2nd half, keeping hold of the ball around the Writtle box Hannah Mold makes a couple of defensive clearances as they try to lift the ball in. Rodney comes again right side bringing the ball on hits it on the run fires the shot straight at Farr who holds onto the shot.

Huggins with a superb pass 20 yards out to put the ball on into the area left side for Nash to run onto, hits her shot goalwards again Farr is well placed gets everything behind the shot. Sustained possession from Basildon ends when Huggins goes for the strike 25 yards out Farr again claiming the ball. Rodney attacking with the ball at her feet down the right flank getting into the box stands the ball up towards the far post, Rushen rises 3 yards out headers the ball down, fantastic reactions from Farr going down to throw an arm out and tip the ball wide of goal for a corner kick.

Writtle ride it out despite the pressure their 3 attackers are keeping disciplined staying up top waiting for the opportunity if the ball comes up to them. Fry offers Clarke an option on the right side going on with the ball squares the cross in towards Tricker coming into the area, can’t quite get the ball under her control gives Smith the chance to get on the ball and clear. Vale has a chance to strike from distance 25 yards out smashes a shot in straight at Blowers the keeper spills the shot runs back out towards the edge of her area she goes after it gets hold of it before the onrushing Simmons can pounce.

Writtle are starting to do better, still risk getting hit on the break but are prepared to keeping players up the pitch have options whenever they win it back. Make a double change with Franklin and Vale coming off for Amelia Murphy and Caroline Brown. Murphy joining the attack get’s on the ball straight away in the middle of the park playing in on to Clarke ahead of her 20 yards out a turn and hit, must have got some swerve on the shot because Blowers starting to go one way adjusts well to get down and make the save to her left stopping the ball.

A corner for Writtle put in from the right side Lacey gets a good header on the ball taking it out of the area, Writtle reclaim on the right side Fry drilling a ball back in low Blowers calls and get’s her gloves firmly around the ball. Basildon launch a counter attack the ball fed into the run of Rushen left of the goal 25 yards out, Mellors and Rodney race on getting ahead of her, the Writtle defence attracted to them both no one closes Rushen down edge of the area has the time and space to hit a shot, comes at Farr at a good speed parries the ball up into the air, flicking the ball up and just onto the top of the cross bar and over.

Free kick for Writtle wide right outside the area, a shooting opportunity Clarke over it goes for goal hit long looking for the top corner far post but over. Double change for Basildon with Nicola Carty and Laura Bryant coming on for Stimson and Smith. Farr gathers a shot from Mellors fired in from the edge of her area. Basildon come on again Rodney travelling into space on the right whips the cross in along the face of the area through to Nash who shoots blasts the strike wide of the goal. Substitute Bryant plays the ball through the middle almost putting Mellors through Farr coming to the edge of her area just gets to the ball 1st. Rodney with the ball on the right again holds it up allowing Huggins to come call for the pass given the ball sweeps a cross in looking for the run of Nash far side of the six yard box tries to meet the ball on the volley misses giving Farr a chance to get down and save at her feet.

A vicious strike at goal from the right from Writtle’s Clarke comes at Blowers quickly throwing up a glove pushes the ball out across goal to her left. Charlotte Walker is on for Writtle with Tricker rested after an earlier knock. Another strike from distance as Clarke goes for the top corner 25 yards out drops before it gets there coming at Blowers quickly she reacts putting the ball wide of the post for a corner. Tricker returns to the field with Simmons now rested. Writtle are doing much better now no signs they are tiring Fry playing the ball inside to Tricker 20 yards out her shot is a tame one rolling through to the keeper. Time is running out to get a goal however.

Murphy is played in through the middle running after the ball into the area can’t get there as Blowers comes and scoops the ball out. Another shot from Tricker on the right side of the area more height this time but put straight at Blowers. Nash attacking for Basildon as the game enters the final minute slices a shot well wide from the edge of the area running out to the right Mellors is still full of running keeping it in Rodney is available for the ball to be played back up the right side, lifts the cross into the area Rushen meeting it turns her header wide.

Late charge from Writtle in injury time Clarke in the drive with the ball through the middle gets plenty of power behind the shot swerve on the ball is coming straight for Blowers central in her goal, going to claim the ball almost evades her plucking it out of the air behind her keeping her clean sheet intact as the final whistle blows and Basildon celebrate winning 3-0 to retain the Essex Women’s County Cup

A good battle played at a high tempo throughout, Basildon doing all the damage 1st half always in control with a 3-0 lead could have doubled it or more on another night had the chances. A much improved performance 2nd half from Writtle Ladies, 1st time I’ve seen them in action and clear to see why they have done so well climbing the leagues.

C&K Basildon Ladies, Essex Women’s County Cup Winners

Congratulations to C&K Basildon Ladies on winning the cup and my thanks to the staff at Thurrock FC and the Essex County FA for their help tonight.

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Thirty One

from Sun 17th April

Welcome to Edition Thirty One of The Tuesday Round-Up and a busy one it is once again with the better weather trying but not really succeeding in getting here. This weekend saw several thing’s decided across the East of England, no less than 3 more league titles were decided bringing the total to 5 as we move into the last weekend of April. Not only league titles but cup finals were contested too, in Norfolk and Bedfordshire, County Cup winners, whilst the ERWFL Division One Cup semi-final line-up was confirmed. More sides playing out their league fixtures across the region as their season draws to a close. Not quite so many games to cover but still plenty to round-up so let’s get started.