Monthly Archives: May 2016

Cambridgeshire Girls U18s League Cup Final

Netherton United Ladies U18s v Newmarket Town Ladies U18s

Midweek football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from St Neots Town FC and the Final of the Cambridgeshire Girls U18s League Cup played between Netherton United Ladies & Newmarket Town Ladies, two side with a strong youth policy that has seen several of their U18s play for their senior teams already.

Cup Final Report – Netherton United Ladies U18s v Newmarket Town Ladies U18s

 
  The Cup Finals keep coming on the Supporting Women’s Football. A midweek trip to St Neots Town FC to watch the final of the Cambridgeshire S-Tech Insurance Girls U18s League Cup, with Netherton United Ladies U18s playing Newmarket Town Ladies U18s.

  Two sides that have a similar approach to the game running a number of youth sides with a clear path in place to achieve 1st team football with the senior women’s side and this season has seen a number of U18 players feature regularly for their 1st team both of which compete in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. 

  The venue for this evenings final St Neots Town FC, a newly build stadium on the outskirts of the town, amongst a new housing development going up, is a bit of a rabbit warren to find amongst the new housing and the Sat Nav gave up, still I found it the floodlights visible it was a case of picking the right road. Is a very nice stadium, new a large seated stand along side the pitch with a clubhouse with bar and facilities for hot refreshments although not available tonight. Terraced covered stands at either end. The large pitch looked in fantastic condition. A bright and sunny evening warm and dry total contrast to the monsoon I’d stood in to watch Newmarket Town Ladies in their semi-final game.

Road to the Final
 
  Just 7 sides contested the Cambridge Girls U18s League this season, Wisbech St Marys Ladies were the runaway winners playing and winning all 15 of their league matches whilst Newmarket Town Ladies finished as runners-up with Netherton United Ladies 3rd. Both sides entering in the quarter final stage.
  Newmarket Tow Ladies were awarded an away win with Riverside Rovers pulling out. Into the hat 4 the semi-finals were drawn at home against league leaders Wisbech St Marys Ladies. A tough challenge seemingly I went along to watch this semi-final on a Saturday morning played on the Dullingham Polo Fields. On the day Newmarket Town Ladies were by far the better side winning the game 4-0 to reach the League Cup Final.
  Netherton United Ladies were at home in the quarter finals showing no mercy as they romped though to the semi-finals beating Sawston 21-0. That result scaring their semi-final opponents Sawtry the game never took place and Netherton United Ladies were into the final.
The venue for this evenings final St Neots Town FC, a newly build stadium on the outskirts of the town, amongst a new housing development going up, is a bit of a rabbit warren to find amongst the new housing and the Sat Nav gave up, still I found it the floodlights visible it was a case of picking the right road. Is a very nice stadium, new a large seated stand along side the pitch with a clubhouse with bar and facilities for hot refreshments although not available tonight. Terraced covered stands at either end. The large pitch looked in fantastic condition. A bright and sunny evening warm and dry total contrast to the monsoon I’d stood in to watch Newmarket Town Ladies in their semi-final game.
 
  Netherton United Ladies U18s starting XI – Katie Cooper, Stacie Boon, Courtney Coles, Olivia Bass, Georgia Clarke, Hazel Sterling (C), Eleanor Mitchell, Georgina Parrett, Savannah Evans, Lucy Johnson & Emma Pollard.
  subs – Tia Vacca, Charlotte Akester & Natasha Anderson.
 
   Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Lilli Estus, Katie Webb, Chloe Slater, Yasmin Woodfield, Ella Blowes (C), Jessica Linger, Molly Agnew, Abbi Griffin, Olivia Orme, Jordanne Sillitoe & Dominika Szary
   subs – Olivia Page & Freya Rule.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
  Newmarket wearing yellow shirts with blue trim on the sides and numbering get the 1st half underway with opponents Netherton lined up opposite wearing red shirts with a black bands across the chest, black shorts and black and red hooped socks. Netherton captain, Hazel Sterling imposes herself on the ball in the midfield early on pushing out to the left side tries the play in Savannah Evans ahead of her trying to come in from the left side to get inside the area the pass carries too much weight runs through to Newmarket goalkeeper Lilli Estus for an early touch of the ball.
Netherton United Ladies u18s captain goes on the attack early on
  Not only have players from both sides played for their respective 1st teams this season, Newmarket have a few dual signed who have played at a higher level still, defender Katie Webb and attacking player Jordanne Sillitoe have experience in the ERWFL Premier Division with Great Shelford Ladies, whilst I have seen Chloe Slater in playing for Brandon Town Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Newmarket go up the other end the ball put up the right channel for Abbi griffin to chase wins her side a corner kick. Any set piece put in from that side could cause a problem for the Netherton defence with the sun setting low behind that side of the stadium. The ball comes in goalkeeper, Katie Cooper goes up to claim the ball isn’t safely in her gloves drops into the six yard box, Netherton scramble it away.
 GOAL! The perfect start for Newmarket as they open the scoring just 3 minutes played. the ball from the corner kick isn’t cleared far outsdie the Netherton box newmarket regain possession on the left side, comes to the feet of Sillitoe, carries it forwards comng inside reaches the edge of the area pulls the trigger drilling the ball low and fast across the goal and buries it into the bottom corner. 0-1.
 
   Newmarket aome again Sillitoe proving to be a handful on the ball, plays the pass out to Molly Agnew moving into space on the right side again the shot comes in from just outside the area Cooper gets down low and pushes the ball away for another corner. Netherton are trying to release attackers Emma Pollard and Lucy Johnson through the centre testing the Newmarket defence with high balls. Newmarket regain the ball go up the other end winning a throw on the right is put into Sillitoe’s feet turns inside and looks to curl a shot in towards the top corner, drifts wide of the target.
Netherton’s Lucy Johnson with Newmarket’s Yasmin Woodfield
  On the left Dominika Szary gets hold of the ball takes on the Netherton defence getting free, shoots from 20 yards out, Cooper dives to her left but a touch isn’t needed as the ball rolls a yard wide for the goal kick. Netherton get the ball up though the middle quickly Evans into Johnson who slides Pollard in off the shoulder of the Newmarket defence has a half yard head start, Estus comes off her line to the edge of her area right side beats the ball away with her gloves as Pollard shoots. 
Jess Linger in the centre of midfield for Newmarket plays a good ball out for Griffin on the right puts the ball inside into Sillitoe who shoots positioned left of the D, Cooper is down sharply to make the save stopping the ball then claiming it. Courtney Coles gets across and puts in a good tackle to stop Agnew wide left as she looks to travel with the ball deep on the left as Newmarket counter attack. Another block is needed from Netherton as Sillitoe charging forwards with the ball at her feet unleashes a shot, Emma Mitchell getting herself behind the ball to block. the ball looping away for a corner. Comes in high into the middle Szary going up for it connects with her head but sends the ball wide across goal.
Dominika Szary gets up to head the ball from a corner for Newmarket
  Staying close together as the ball is put up to them Johnson and Pollard attack the Netherton defence exchanging passes as they work it forwards Johnson gets the ball back to Pollard as she gets free just outside the area takes on the shot the ball looping up turns away from the right post wide.Evans wins a throw inside the Newmarket half on the left taking it gets the ball back lifts it up towards the area picking out Pollard who hits it on the turn sending the ball up into the air comes down into Estus’ gloves.
 Is a fast paced game, U18s football is alot faster than the senior women’s game and that isn’t a slow game either. Georgina Parrett bursts forwards played in by Sterling down the wing wins a throw deep in their territory the ball comes to nothing, Newmarket get hold of it, Linger getting the ball up to Griffin who goes for goal 20 yards out puts her effort over the crossbar. Sillitoe who is constantly looking for room to unleash a shot goes for it from 30 yards out left side a fierce drive is off target. 
Chloe Slater playing the ball for Newmarket Town Ladies U18s
  Change for Netherton with Sterling coming off the armband handed to Coles as Tia Vacca comes on. Evans brings the ball forwards for Netherton plays it inside to Johnson, she and Pollard exchange passes again working their way through the middle, get a shot away Newmarket have bodies in the box the ball is blocked. Szary comes off for Newmarket with Olivia Page being sent on.
  GOAL! Netherton get themselves back on level terms, Pollard picking the ball up inside the Newmarket half has Vacca running into space on her left, plays the ball out to her getting hold of it deep is closed down looks up seeing what options she has Parett has come forwards left side of the area the ball is played into her hits the shot sending the ball looping up high into the air flies over Estus and drops behind her into the back of the net 1-1.
Georgina Parrett looking to get on the ball levels things up for Netherton
 Sillitoe has taken a knock and needs to come off, Agnew who had sneaked off earlier on returning to the pitch. Netherton put a dangerous ball forwards looking to clear the Newmarket defence, Pollard is interested, but Newmarket defender Olivia Orme does well to keep her eye on the ball watch it drop with a setting sun to deal and get a firm header on the ball to clear.Break on for Netherton Johnson playing the ball down the line for Vacca surging forwards, Griffin tracking back slides in to win the ball back putting it out for the corner. Newmarket get the ball up the other end Griffins cross put behind at the near post for a corner. The ball is put into the face of the area, is rolled out to Griffin right hits it hard towards goal, stinging Coopers gloves as she saves then claims the lose ball insde her six yard box.
  Netherton go straight on the attack the ball sent out to Johnson peeling away into space left carrying the ball on left side of the area lets fly sending the shot high looping over Estus once again looks destined to drop under the bar, instead hits it then the post before dropping down central a foot in front of goal, then into the gloves of a grateful Estus. Late into the 1st half and Newmarket have a corner, on the right goes all the way through the area coming to Yasmin Woodfield left side 20 yards out fires the shot back in Copper diving to her right the ball sails wide.
Half-time Netherton United Ladies U18s 1-1 Newmarket Town Ladies U18s
  A fast paced 1st half with plenty of chances created, Newmarket getting the better share of them have used the width better getting the ball into the channels whilst Sillitoe has been all over the place in attack hard to mark. Scored early but Netherton held out working hard to chase the ball down have been patient waiting for the mistakes then trying to capitalise, equalised and could have had a lead late in the 1st half. 
  Netherton get the 2nd half underway the floodlights now starting to take full effect. Both Sillitoe and Szary are back on the pitch for the start of the 2nd half Page and Freya Rule off. After a tentative opening couple of minutes Newmarket win a corner on the right as Sillitoe pushes into the corner. The ball coming in is knocked up into the air at the near post, comes down for Linger edge of the area right of goal, takes a touch shifting the ball into a yard of space to shoot hits it hard but straight at Cooper who holds onto the ball.
  Netherton make a push through the middle, Parrett and Pollard working it forwards the latter trying to put Johnson clear on the right side, Slater closing her down tackles and brings the ball away. Pollard comes through the middle shoots 20 yards out sees the ball blocked spins away to the right Johnson winning a corner. Estus decides to come through the crowd at her near post goes to punch the ball misses it drops behind her into the six yard area in front of goal, Webb launches it. 
  GOAL! Newmarket retake the lead, coming forwards through the middle Slater to Linger the ball rolled on for Sillitoe right of the D 20 yards out, Griffin more central just ahead of her her is given the ball rolls it on for Szary coming into the area goes for the shot pulling the ball across the keeper to the far post strikes it at the base and is turned in 1-2. 
 
   Great tackle from Webb on Vacca left side as Netherton attack Parrett on for Pollard who looks to get Vacca through on goal. Johnson has a pop at goal 25 yards out hits the ball wide across the area. Pollard is fouled on the left side close to the top of the area. A good delivery is swept into the box, Johnson rising to attack it sends her header narrowly over the crossbar. 
  Newmarket are starting to get more of the ball, lifting a ball up into the box Griffin looks to hit the ball across the six yard box with the outside of her boot, Szary making the run is just sort of connecting with the ball before Cooper claims it. Sillitoe with a powerful run down into the right channel stands the ball up into the area Szary gets her head on the ball but can’t direct it on target. A knock for Stacie Boon comes off for Netherton with Sterling returning to the action. Change for Newmarket to Agnew coming off Page comes back on.
  GOAL! Newmarket extend their lead coming from a throw inside the Netherton half on the right side is with Page down beside the area plays the pass back up into Sillitoe coming to receive, outside the area Sillitoe goes for goal hitting a high ball into the area little Cooper can do about it as it drops late behind her and over the line. 1-3.
 
Jordan Sillitoe on the ball for Newmarket scores 2
in the U18s League Cup Final
  Vacca comes off for Netherton with Boon returning to the game. Linger plays the ball up in towards Sillitoe 20 yards out slips and falls as she goes to control the ball, Griffin is close with her gets the shot away looping up but straight for Cooper she palms it down the scrambles to get hold of it with Szary chasing in on the follow up. Johnson is fouled by Webb coming across her 25 yards out, Netherton have a free kick, Olivia Bass over it goes for goal puts the strike over. 
  Webb plays the ball into the box as she finds herself high up the pitch with a throw being taken on the left plays the ball into to the area, Parrett does well to defend against Sillitoe the ball cleared Page tried to turn it back in is fouled giving Newmarket the free kick in a central position 25 yards out. Linger takes it going for goal hits it hard drills the ball wide. Netherton are tiring not retaining the ball high up the pitch Newmarket bring it forwards a superb ball from Slater putting the pass across the pitch picking out Griffin on the right side shoots aiming for the near post, great save by Cooper diving at full stretch to push the ball wide for the corner as the game moves into the final 5 minutes. 
Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin
  Corner for Newmarket on the right put into the box Sillitoe gets up highest to head the ball turning it down towards the far post Bass covering the post makes the goal line clearance. The subs are coming thick and fast from both sides late on job to keep track of who is on and who is off. Webb has been in fine form at the back for Newmarket all game and late on gets across to stops Pollard making one last break through the middle. Gets up the other end as Newmarket push forwards has a strike at goal from outside the box firing it straight at Cooper who keeps hold of the ball.
  The final whistle blows and Newmarket Town Ladies celebrate as they win the u18s Girls League Cup Final beating Netherton 3-1. An entertaining final played at a fast tempo between to sides packed with potential as they end their time in youth football setting up to women’s football next season both sides look to have an exciting future ahead of them. Newmarket were the better side over the 90 minutes creating more chances. Netherton worked hard and created chances equalising and could have lead before Newmarket went on to score 2 more goals 2nd half, Netherton tiring towards the end.
Newmarket Town Ladies U18s, League Cup Winners
  Congratulations to Newmarket Town Ladies on their cup success. Thanks to Cambridgeshire FA’s Chris Abbott for his help tonight and both sides for sorting me out with the squad details after the match.

The Tuesday Round-Up

The Tuesday Round-Up – Edition Thirty Three

Sunday 1st May

 Bright sunshine at last! Spring has finally arrives… just as the season draws to it’s end. Sunday 1st of May plenty of sides playing for the last time this season this weekend, just a handful left for the rest The Tuesday Round-Up will soon be all rounded up… at least for now. A busy weekend to start the month more league titles have been decided, in Cambridgeshire, Beds & Herts and Essex. Cup Finals day in Norfolk the League Plate and Cup contested. Plus another side loses it’s 100% league win record this season just 2 remaining now, lots to cover so let’s plunge on.

FAWPL Southern Division

The season is almost over the in the FAWPL Southern Division, the Champions decided and relegation places filled a handful of games left as sides complete their league games. Two fixtures this Sunday. Charlton Athletic Women needed a win in their final match of the season to secure a runners-up spot in the league. Faced a tough away trip to 5th placed Coventry United Ladies who with 2 games left to play could claim 3rd themselves with 2 wins. 

Coventry captain Natasha Lynch gave the home side the lead going into the half-time interval scoring on 15 minutes. Charlton fought back 2nd half and with in 5 minutes of kick off their captain Kimberly Dixson scored to make it 1-1, 7 minutes later and Charlton were in front Kit Graham putting the ball into the back of the net. Coventry came back themselves the lead lasting just 4 minutes with Amber Hughes scoring on 66 minutes to make it 2-2. The game all square heading into the final minute of normal play Charlton scored the winning goal Ellie Baxter coming off the bench in the final 10 minutes with the winning goal on 89 minutes to see Charlton finish as runners-up just 2 points behind Champions Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

  A winning finish to Charlton Athletic Women’s season too not only FAWPL Southern Division runners-up but also retained the Capital Women’s Cup in midweek beating Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-0 in the final.

That win for Charlton ended 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies hopes of claiming the runners-up spot in the FAWPL Southern Division. With 2 matches left to play they needed a Coventry to defeat Charlton to have any chance of chasing them down. This Sunday saw them play their final home game of the season against C&K Basildon Ladies who themselves were playing their final game of the season. Chloe Lloyd found the top corner from a free kick won inside the opening 2 minutes to give Cardiff City the lead. C&K Basildon Ladies pulled it back to 1-1 with Karissa Rodney on target but Cardiff went into the break with a 2-1 advantage after Kerry Bartlett scored.

Hope Suminen came on 2nd half and put Cardiff City 3-1 up early on in proceedings, C&K Basildon scored again Rodney with her 2nd of the game to make it 3-2. Gemma Evans made it 4-2 to Cardiff City, the final score. They secure 3rd place in the table, travel to Coventry United Ladies on the 15th May in the only outstanding league game left. A Cup Final before that on Sunday 8th May in the FAWPL Cup against Tottenham Hotspur Ladies to be played at Kidderminster Harriers FC with a 2pm KO.

C&K Basildon Ladies finish in 8th place in their debut season in the FAWPL, looked comfortable throughout holding a mid-table berth for pretty much the whole season. Captain Claire Lacey retires from the game at the end of the season a long serving player and respected within the women’s game Women’s Football East wishes Claire all the best for the future, still remember that ball in the side I got from one of her defensive clearances way back.

FAWPL South East Division One

Crystal Palace Ladies will be playing in the FAWPL Southern Division next season Champions of the FAWPL South East Division One and by some margin too, undefeated headed to already relegated Lowestoft Town Ladies this Sunday, for their penultimate match of the season. Took Crystal Palace 30 minutes to break down the hosts and score Gemma Bryan putting the ball home, were 2-0 at half-time Leanne Bell getting the goal just before the half-time whistle. Bryan added her 2nd goal of the match inside the opening quarter of an hour of the 2nd half, but they didn’t have things all their own way as Lowestoft Town Ladies fought back captain Hannah Waters pulling a goal back then Gemma Moore made it 3-2 from the penalty spot. 6 minutes from time Bryan completes her hat-trick to put the result beyond doubt an away trip to Norwich City Ladies their final league match of a successful season will want to finish unbeaten.

  A tough season for newly promoted Lowestoft Town Ladies playing their last game in the FAWPL South East Division One, upheaval at the club seeing the manager and alot of the players that got them promoted moving on, leaving a squad of young players who have been asked to step up and done well under difficult circumstances, will look to build again for next season and put themselves in the best position to re-stage a promotion challenge.

Runners-up spot in the FAWPL South East Division One was a three way battle going into this weekends fixtures, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have held that position for much of the season, were at home to Old Actonians Ladies who finally got the win they needed to secure FAWPL football next season, last Sunday. Took Milton Keynes Dons Ladies a little while to break down the Old Actonians defence but as the game moved past the half hour mark they took complete control scoring 3 goals in 6 minutes, Andie Dickens on 33 minutes setting things rolling, Leah Cudone with a brace netting on 36 and 39 minutes to send them into the dressing room with a 3-0 lead. The scoreline was extended by 3 more goals in the 2nd half an own goal putting Milton Keynes 4-0 up after 57 minutes. Awarded a penalty with 15 minutes left Heather McDonnell put it away to make it 5-0, Samantha Gillings found the back of the net to seal a 6-0 victory.

Gillingham FC Ladies own title hopes faded away in recent weeks, however the runners-up spot is still within their grasp have always had games in hand on everyone else in the league still do and can chase down 2nd spot if they win all three of their remaining matches. Were on the road playing Denham United Ladies this Sunday. Katie Hardaker with the goal to her name giving them a half-time lead Kallie Balfour and Jade Keogh finding the back of the net in the 2nd half to make it 3-0 and claim all 3 points. Denham United Ladies have played out their fixtures end in 9th on 23 points can be caught by Old Actonians Ladies who have 5 games left to as things stand.

  In the final fixture being played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday 4th placed Luton Town Ladies saw their faint hopes of closing down the runners-up spot end at home in their penultimate match against Ipswich Town Ladies as they won 2-0 Jade Henry and Zoe Cossey with the goals. Ipswich Town Ladies have two matches left play Enfield Town Ladies away from home on the 15th a win will secure a top half finish.

Eastern Regional Leagues

Stevenage Ladies will be playing FAWPL football next season, the ERWFL Premier Division Champions wrapping up the title with a game to spare were on home soil playing bottom side Great Shelford Ladies this Sunday and celebrated with a comfortable 6-0 to see them finish 6 points clear at the top of the table. Great Shelford Ladies finish bottom of the #ERWFL Premier Division but with 2 sides folding over the season are unlikely to be relegated although they will be Great Shelford Ladies no more as come the start of next season will become Histon Ladies moving to a new home and a more secure future a new challenge awaits next season. 

A late season flurry of good form sees new #ERWFL Premier Division side Great Wakering Rovers Ladies pull themselves out of the bottom two and finish 8th with a victory in their final game at home beating Acle United Ladies 4-0.

  All thing’s come to an end and in the ERWFL Division One East, Writtle Ladies  saw their long standing 100% league win record come to an end at home to Essex rivals Silver End United Ladies. Almost 3 seasons, Writtle Ladies have already secured the league title. Silver End United Ladies had secured runners-up spot, this their last league match of the season with the ERWFL League Cup Final to contest ended on a high. A 7 goal thriller Writtle Ladies found the back of the net on three occasions, Abigail Fry, Sophie Vale and Charlotte Walker all getting a goal to their name, but Silver End United Ladies edged the result scoring 4 to win the game a goal from Rebekah Henderson plus a hat-trick from Rebecca Hollocks seeing them become the 1st side to beat Writtle in a league game since they were formed. Writtle Ladies have one more league game left to play, plus a final of their own to look forwards to the ERWFL Division One Cup.

One league game being played in ERWFL Division One West, Stevenage Ladies Reserves at home for their last game of the season playing Hoddesdon Owls. It was the visitors who took the lead Becky Scola on target inside the opening 15 minutes, 10 minutes later an Stevenage had their noses in front, Leah Littlechild then Cara Breckenridge scoring within a minute of each other. Scola scored again 10 minutes before the end of the 1st half to see it all level at 2-2 at half-time. Hoddesdon were the stronger side 2nd half taking a 3-2 lead as Stevenage put the ball through their own net then conceding a penalty kick, Kristina O’Connell made it 4-2 from the spot before Scola went on to complete her hat-trick. Into the final 15 minutes and O’Connell scored her 2nd of the game. Stevenage found a reply through Megan Evans, the game ending 7-3 to Hoddesdon with Charlotte Grogan getting her name on the scoresheet. Hoddesdon still have 3 games left to play currently 5th could with the right results finish as runners-up.

Also playing in the ERWFL Division One West were bottom sides Colney Heath Ladies and Sawbridgeworth Town Ladies the points shared the match ending goalless.

Norfolk

It was Finals Day in Norfolk the Women’s and Girls Football League (NWGFL) League Cup and Plate Finals played at Plantation Park home of Norwich United FC and Norwich City Ladies. The Ladies Plate Competition is a new competition introduced this season and saw an all Division Two Final with North Walsham Angels Ladies taking in Red Rose Ladies both sides playing in their 1st final. 

   North Walsham Angels have already secured promotion in just their 2nd season since forming. Took the lead in the Plate Final scoring on the 15 minute mark, Lauren Yarham coming in far side to turn the ball home inside the six yard box after Luci Middleton saw her shot saved pushed out wide. Middleton get’s on the scoresheet before the end of the 1st half being played through before lifting her shot over the keeper and into the back of the net from just outside the area. 

 Middleton went on to claim the match ball in the 2nd half on target twice more, played in behind the Red Rose defence to chase down the ball evade a challenge and put driving into the box shoots from an acute angle to score. Moments later Middleton gets her hat-trick play building up down the left the ball coming to the edge of the area for Imogen Carver, gets a touch on it just before the advancing keeper squaring it to Middleton who has an empty goal to shoot at doesn’t miss. North Walsham Angels Ladies win 4-0 to lift the Ladies League Plate. The whole match report can be found by scrolling further down this web page or clicking on the link below to take you to the Supporting Women’s Football Blog.

North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies

Wasn’t the only Final being covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday as no sooner had North Walsham Angels Ladies celebrated their win it was time for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final, with defending cup holders Wymondham Town Ladies taking in Aylsham FC Ladies playing in their 2nd final this season having lost 2-0 to Thorpe United Ladies in the County Cup a fortnight ago. 

A fairly uneventful 1st half with two sides evenly matched not seeing their final balls come off with defences on top for the large part. 2nd half substitute Laura Wiseman put Wymondham Town Ladies into the lead midway through the 2nd half. The ball over the top putting her clear shooting early from outside the box to score. Had a chance to double the lead soon after put in again with the keeper coming pulls the shot wide across goal. Well into the last 5 minutes of the final and Aylsham FC Ladies have a corner kick put in from the right captain Vicki Bird times her jump to perfection connecting with the ball and sends it home to make it 1-1. Unbelievably there is time for a winning goal with Aylsham FC Ladies 1-0 moments ago going on to score again to win the Cup Final. An innocuous looking free kick inside the Wymondham half in front of the centre circle, Abbie Charlton over it decides to go for goal, gets good contact and swerve on the ball, flies over the keeper and Charlton is caught and buries under her celebrating team mates as they win the Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final, again you can find the report further down this page or by clicking on the link below.

Wymondham Town Ladies v Aylsham FC Ladies 

Suffolk

Copleston Ladies have had the games in hand on everyone all season knew if they could turn those into points the title was theirs to take. Brantham Athletic Ladies leading the way have played out their league fixtures, finishing on 39, Copleston have climbed up into 2nd spot the gap 4 points had 2 games left to play, 2 victories and they will lift the Suffolk Women’s Division title playing the bottom sides in their remaining fixtures. Their last home league fixture against 2nd bottom Leiston St Margarets Ladies this Sunday, made no mistake scoring 4 goals 4 different scorers too, Jade Horne, Elysia Young, Shannon Giles and Roxanne Middle all netting to see Copleston win 4-0 to move to within a point of Brantham. Away to bottom sides Ipswich Phoenix Ladies next Sunday who haven’t picked up a point all season, can’t afford any sympathy nothing less than a win will do if they want to finish top of the league.

Cambridgeshire

Cambridge City Ladies are the new leaders of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership as they beat the current leaders ICA Sports Ladies at home on Sunday to move level on points with 3 games left to play. Goals from captain Grace Stanley and Phillippa Witherspoon securing the victory winning 2-1. Have a game in midweek against Cambridge University Women, being played even as I’m writing this edition of The Tuesday Round-Up another win to go 3 points clear beating them 5-2 courtesy of a goals from Stanley and Carla Penny with Witherspoon netting a hat-trick sees them go 3 points clear one more point from their remaining 2 games and they will lift the Premiership title.

Bar Hill Ladies are up to 4th in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership table. A big win at home at the weekend against bottom side Fulbourn Bluebirds. Anna Jephson finding the back of the net for 4 goals. Hayley Stevens and Natalie Wells also getting goals along with substitute Nadine Wejkins who scored a brace as Bar Hill ran out 8-0 winners.

 Last league match of the season for Newmarket Town Ladies and the last time they will be playing at the Dullingham Polo Fields as they move to Newmarket Town FC next season. Were taking on Netherton United Ladies. Was a close encounter a single goal settling the result and securing 3 points for Netherton who climb up to 5th in the table. Megan Parrett with the goal in the 2nd half.

Bourne Ladies were celebrating on after Sunday’s match as they won the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North title. At home to local rivals Stamford Ladies. Was a high scoring game, Bourne Ladies holding a 3-2 lead at half time went on to win the game by the odd goal in 11 6-5 the final score their goals coming from Charlotte Ayers and Tracey Duxbury-Mead with Kimberly Fairweather and Claire Lawrenson both scoring a brace.

Congratulations to Bourne Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North.

March Town United Ladies will have to make do with finishing runners-up in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North the gap 4 points with one game needed Bourne to drop points, they didn’t. Were away playing Wisbech St Marys Ladies. Adele Munday scored the only goal of the game to see the 3 points won. Was a single strike for 3rd placed Wisbech Town Ladies too to see them pick up 3 points at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Bottom club Tydd St Mary Ladies have had a tough season conceding lots of goals and no points to show for it, have a win to their name now albeit awarded to them by the league as opponents Downham Town Ladies couldn’t field a team late in the season.

Was a home win award to for Cambridgeshire Championship South side Park Ladies against bottom side Cambridge Rangers, are still 4 points clear at the top with one game left to play.  2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies were taking on 3rd placed Milton Ladies both sides still in the title race themselves, Sasha Smith and Tierney Poore scored for St Ives Town Ladies to get them the result winning the game 2-1. Have two left to play can finish on 44 points. Milton in 3rd can finish on 45 like Park Ladies have the better goal difference too with 3 to play. One of those game is against St Ives Town Ladies once again a defeat for either would end their title hopes, Park Ladies will be hoping for a draw knowing a win in their final game will see them lift the title.

Isleham United Ladies were at home to Riverside Rovers Reserves in the Cambridgeshire Championship North on Sunday lost out by the odd goal in 7 as Riverside won the game 4-3.

Essex

Harlow Ladies are just one of 2 sides across the region now holding a 100% league win record have 17 games on the board now win 17 wins one match to go. Promotion to the Essex Women’s Premier Division and a League Cup Final to contest. Were at home this Sunday playing Chigwell Ladies. Racked up another double figure scoreline Nene McInerney scoring a hat-trick, Abbie Bensted, Tia Dye and Catherine Kelly all scoring 2 each, Kelly’s both from the penalty spot. Victoria Hill and Phillippa Stephens also scoring. Despite the heavy defeat Chigwell Ladies have secured 3rd place in the Essex Women’s Division One table.

 That defeat for Chigwell Ladies sees 2nd placed Chelmsford City Ladies secure promotion to the Essex Women’s Premier Division were at home at the weekend playing 4th placed Alredford Colne Rangers, Charlotte Barnard, Nicola Hatfield and Tyler Christou all scored a goal but they had to settle for a share of the points as they were held 3-3.

A narrow win for 5th placed Wickford Town Ladies in Essex Women’s Division One sees them up to 4th in the table. Away to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies Reserves won the game 4-3 with goals from Autumn Ranger, Claire Campbell and a brace scored by Harley Brueton.

Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

 Hertford Town Ladies move 3 points clear at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three with 2 games left to play. Away to bottom side Flitwick Ladies on Sunday, Wendy Rankin and Dee Gilbert gave them a 2-0 lead before Carly Snell was red carded on 35 minutes didn’t slow Hertford Town down as with 10 they added another 3 goals Bilge Taspinar scoring then Kerry Oldham adding a brace late on to win 5-1. Play 2nd placed Harvesters FC Ladies in midweek a positive result will see them win the league their 2nd league title in 2 seasons since being formed.

Sandy Ladies pulled themselves out of the bottom 2 in Beds & Herts Division One in midweek putting Toddington Rovers Ladies back into the relegation places as they travelled to Letchworth Garden City Eagles in their final league game. Tayla Murray was on target for 5 goals for Letchworth, with Alyce Williams netting a brace goals too for Emily Jamieson and Samantha Edgar as they won 9-1 to to end in 5th on 23 points, can be caught by Garston Ladies but only if they play their remaining league games didn’t at the weekend seeing Bishops Stortford Ladies get the 3 points to see them finish in 4th place.

  Just the one game left in Beds & Herts Division Two and leaders Sharnbrook WFC only needed to avoid a 14-0 defeat to see the title won playing Garston Ladies FC 96 whose own title hopes had faded late on in the season. Chantelle Harris scored twice for Sharnbrook in the 1st half adding 2 more goals in the 2nd half, Claire Smith and Charlotte Mullins also getting goals as they ran out 6-2 winners to bounce back to the 1st Division at the 1st attempt. Lauren Berryman and Cassandra Chase with the goals for Garston Ladies FC 96 who finish in 4th place.

Congratulations to Sharnbrook WFC in winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two title.

 In Beds & Herts Division Three, Hitchin Belles claimed the title in midweek following an 8-1 win at Panshanger Ladies. Earning promotion in their 1st season together in women’s football. Finished their league campaign at home against Bedwell Rangers FC, a hat-trick by Shannon Page, plus 2 goals by Emily Field and 1 from Charlotte Peters saw them end with a 6-1 win, Jessica Sullivan with the consolation goal from Bedwell Rangers FC who finish their 1st season in the league in 7th place. 

   Also promoted out of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two are Evergreen Ladies finishing as runners up in the league, were taking on 3rd placed Icknield Ladies away from home in their final league game of the season. Rebecca Freeman, Emily Jones and Natalie Maher all scored for Evergreen in a 3-1 win. Mandy Cain-Murnane scored the goal for Icknield Ladies who are currently 3rd in their 1st season as a club.

  Bedmond Ladies in 4th place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, could yet pip Icknield Ladies to 3rd spot close the gap to 2 points with one game left to play. Were at home for the last time this season playing Kings Langley Ladies. Molly Peters hit a hat-trick with Dawn Kingsley also on target in a 4-0 win. Playing it midweek everything league wise will be wrapped up in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire before the weekend.

  That concludes Edition Thirty Three of The Tuesday Round-Up the next one is going to be considerably smaller with the fixtures coming to an end. Still several thing’s to be decided and their will be more congratulations to hand out to league title winners next time around. Thanks for reading.

Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final – Wymondham Town Ladies v Aylsham FC Ladies

A busy afternoon on NWGFL Finals day with North Walsham Angels Ladies still celebrating their Plate Final win it was onto the next final for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog with Wymondham Town Ladies (the current holders) taking on Aylsham FC Ladies in the League Cup Final.

Cup Final Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Aylsham FC Ladies

 
The dust has barely settled on North Walsham Angles Ladies 4-0 Plate Final win then we’re onto the 2nd women’s final being played at Plantation Park this afternoon this one for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup, with Wymondham Town Ladies playing Aylsham FC Ladies. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies are the current holders of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup beating Brandon Town Ladies in last seasons final Have featured in the last 4 finals. Are looking to defend the trophy and currently leading Norfolk Women’s Division One will be hoping to celebrate a league and cup double come the end of the season. 

   Aylsham FC Ladies are contesting their 2nd cup final of the season having reached the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, were beaten by fellow Division One side Thorpe United Ladies 2-0. Want a better result this time around, last season Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions will they finish the season with some silverware.

Road to the Final
 
      Wymondham received a bye in the 1st Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup. Were drawn away to Norfolk Women’s Division Two title chasers North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round a tricky tie they had beaten higher league opposition in the 1st Round. Wymondham Town Ladies came out on top getting the result beating them 4-2 to reach the quarter finals and set up a repeat of last seasons final as they were drawn away to Brandon Town Ladies. Won by the same scoreline beating them 4-2 to advance to the semi-finals. At home to fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side Lynn Ladies was a comfortable victory on the day beating them 6-0 to ease into the final.
  Aylsham FC Ladies were at home to fellow Norfolk Women’s Division One side Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st Round. A 2-0 win saw them into the draw for the 2nd Round a trip to the Norfolk coast to play Division Three side, Cromer Town Ladies, cruised to victory racking up the goals in a 9-0 win. It was a trip to the coast again for the quarter finals and Division Three opponents once again, a different test unbeaten and going for the title the result was still as emphatic another 9-0 victory to set up a home semi-final against Thorpe United Ladies. Was a fierce battle between the 2 sides a 7 goal thriller from which Aylsham FC Ladies emerged the winner beating them 4-3 to reach this seasons League Cup Final.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Gemma Hamilton-Rout, Kelly Ayers, Mary Cann, Rachel Cossey (C), Brooke Cheal, Laura Hammerton, Louise Hamilton-Rout, Kayleigh Holloway, Amber Cantwell, Alice Collins & Sally Hammerton.
  subs – Gemma Sanders, Leah Newcombe & Laura Wiseman.

  Aylsham FC Ladies starting XI – Becky Hibbert, Di England, Aneliese Smith, Vicki Bird (C), Alicia Lacey, Emma Gillespie, Lisa Ferdani, Sophie Burr-Walpole, Becky Hills, Leanne Woodward & Abbie Charlton. 
  subs – Debbie Kelly, Michaela England & Kiera Squires. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   It’s Wymondham to get the Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing red shirts, black shorts and socks with Aylsham kitted out in orange shirts with a blue and white horizontal band across the front, blue shorts and orange socks. The opening passage of play is fairly tentative the ball being exchanged between the two sides as they test each other out neither getting any joy in behind. 
   Aylsham’s Emma Gillespie puts the ball into the feet of striker Abbie Charlton 20 yards out back to goal, marked closely she looks to spin and turn around Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey, who read the move and going with her leaves no way through into the box, tackling to win the ball. Both sides have players who can do damage on the ball, is seeing the game played at a fierce tempo as the ball is closed down. Gillespie runs the ball on for Becky Hills on the right side, coming inside tries to play the ball on for Charlton into the bx Brooke Cheal intercepts bringing the ball out of the box. 
Aylsham’s Sophie Burr-Walpole with Wymondham’s Louise Hamilton-Rout
  Wymondham attack the ball played through the midfield, Amber Cantwell with the ball to send Alice Collins in behind the Aylsham defence in the middle looking to meet the ball as it rolls to the edge of the area, Becky Hibbert is keeping goal for today’s final and rushing off her line to the edge of the area closes Collins down blocking her shot at point blank range. Aylsham turn the Wymondham defence get possession deep on the right winning a throw the ball is given to Gillespie right side of the Wymondham area plays the ball across the front coming to Sophie Burr-Walpole left of the D, hits the ball in towards goal 1st time the volley looping up comes down short safely into the gloves of Wymondham goalkeeper, Gemma Hamilton-Rout.
  A constant threat out wide on the left of the attack for Wymondham, Kayleigh Holloway is always ready to take on a player, spin off them and drive forwards with the ball, Laura Hammerton challenges for the ball in the centre, Holloway makes her move springing away to break clear of the Aylsham back line, Hibbert sniffs the danger and wastes no time getting up out of her box to to clear the threat before Holloway can close the ball down. The Hammerton’s link up in Wymondham’s next attack, Laura in the middle playing the ball up through the centre for striker Sally Hammerton into the box, Aylsham captain Vicki Bird gets across her to tackle well the ball running behind a goal kick the decision.
Aylsham goalkeeper, Becky Hibbert claims the ball as Wymondham surge forwards
  Defences on top all around for the large part of the game, Bird and Alicia Lacey in the middle for Aylsham winning alot of balls, at right back for Wymondham today, Kelly Ayers isn’t letting anything past her, is prepared to carry the ball forwards when she regains possession. Bird gets caught in possession at the back left corner of the area, Sally Hammerton closing her down takes the ball from her and bursts forwards, pulls the trigger sends her shot rolling wide across the goal.
Kelly Ayers carries the ball forwards for Wymondham
  Aneliese Smith fouls Cantwell deep on the right giving away a free kick that’s as good as a corner the ball is put into the area by Cheal, flying over the players coming to meet it near side is cleared by Aylsham out of the area falling perfectly for Cantwell central 20 yards out, smashes the ball back into the area, their are cries for handball as the shot strikes an Aylsham player, nothing doing the protests come to nothing play continues. Up top Sally Hammerton sends the ball further on for Collins coming in to attack the box from the left side, a vital touch from Lacey, unintentionally slices the ball taking it away from Collins into the area, Hibbert comes racing out and sliding in smothers the ball. 
   Holloway plays the ball into the right channel with Louise Hamilton-Rout after it gets a corner as Burr-Walpole tracks back to defend. The ball played in high drops into the middle of the box, Hibbert coming for it get’s lost amongst the crowd Aylsham scramble the ball out, Wymondham pick it up again right side rolled into Ayers up with play looks to lift a  shot up towards the far corner of goal, Hibbert back in position comes across at gathers the ball.
Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-0 Aylsham FC Ladies

  A 1st half of few chances, two sides that are fairly well balanced both competitive and defending well no one is getting any time on the ball and the final passes are rarely finding their mark. Plenty of players out there that can turn it on change the game with one move of quality, but so far it’s been the defenders who have been on top. Aylsham stay out on the pitch during half-time Wymondham back in their dressing room make changes at the start of the 2nd half Laura Wiseman who has just been selected for the GB Deaf Women’s World Cup squad this summer along with team mate Gemma Sanders both coming on Wiseman up top replacing Sally Hammerton who took a knock clattering into Hibbert at the very end of the 1st half. Sanders comes into the midfield for Louise Hamilton-Rout.
   A double switch for Aylsham too with Debbie Kelly and Michaela England on at the start of the 2nd half, for Woodward and Smith as they get thing’s rolling 2nd half. Attack early on the ball put into Charlton wide left taking the ball deep to the byline, beats Cossey to come inside past Cheal, shoots the angle against her Hamilton-Rout has that side covered the ball isn’t cleared far Aylsham regain possession the ball swept into the box from the right side cleared for a corner, the set-piece initially cleared falls to Charlton outside the box goes to hit it hard striking bodies between her and the goal, it rebounds back to her, tries to lift it over everyone this time, Hamilton-Rout leaping up palms the ball down and claims.
 
 Holloway seeing the ball into her feet on the left spins away from the attentions of her mark to race with the ball down the wing sends in a early cross into the box coming along the six yard line Collins with the diving header sends the ball wide of the near post. Wiseman receiving the ball from Hammerton in the centre does well to put the ball out left with Holloway looking to steal in behind, has a couple of yards on Bird as the defender goes after her has the legs to get back on her tackle to win the ball before she can carry it into the area.
  Hammerton passes the ball out to Holloway wide left looks to play the diagonal ball early send Wiseman in on goal inside the box, Lacey clears it comes back out to Holloway who delivers the ball ball into the box looking for Collins racing in near post, Hibbert has the ball in her gloves a fraction before the striker arrives knocks it free, falling inside the six yard box ,can’t get onto the end of it as Aylsham get back to hook it away.
    Hamilton-Rout makes a great save in the Wymondham goal from a Charlton corner swung in from the left, curling in towards the near post the keeper pushes it away across the goal and out the other side for another corner. Another great delivery driven in low Burr-Walpole making the run towards the ball 10 yards out complete misses her shot the ball rolling into the crowd beyond is cleared. Another change for Wymondham with Cann coming off as Leah Newcombe returns to field having been out injured for a long period.
Leah Newcombe with Aylsham’s Becky Hills
  A surging run down the right side by Collins taking on and beating two Aylsham players closing in on the box her shot is blocked by Gillespie at the back. Sanders drives forwards with the ball for Wymondham right of the box crosses in looking for Collins, Lacey steps out of defence to get her toe on the ball bring it clear. 
Laura Wiseman scores to give
Wymondham the lead in the Final

  GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken. Getting hold of the ball in the centre of midfield it is lifted over the top of the Aylsham defence with Wiseman running through central to connect with the ball on the move hitting it early sending her shot flying past the Hibbert from the edge of the box her team mates rushing over to congratulate her as Wymondham take the lead in the Cup Final 1-0.

  Holding the ball up high on the right, Hills gets help from Michaela England knocking the ball back to her she sweeps the cross in towards the far post area with Burr-Walpole racing into the area to meet it from the left, connecting on the volley sends the strike high over the bar. Leading one nil Wymondham make a change bringing off a striker, Collins and sending Louise Hamilton-Rout back on as they look to defend the lead with 20 minutes left to play. A chance to make it 2-0 as again Wiseman is put through from midfield to have a run at the Aylsham goal right side shoots early putting the ball wide of Hibbert, sees it roll wide of the goal too.

  A free kick to Wymondham on the right just outside the box Cantwell over the ball plays it into the area, Sanders turns the ball towards goal is cleared inside the six yard box comes straight back to Sanders who headers the ball over the crossbar. Good hold up play on the left between Wiseman and Holloway the cross is squared along the face of the area into Louise Hamilton-Rout, Lacey keeping close to her she  manages to get the shot away Hibbert parries the ball away from goal.Double change for Aylsham with Burr-Walpole and Kelly coming off to be replaced by Woodward and Keira Squires. The game is moving into the final 5 minutes. 

  High ball up into the box by Aylsham from Ferdani, Woodward is under it looks favourite to get there, Newcombe and Cossey do well to get in front of her and the ball smuggle it back to their keeper. Wymondham break the ball with Holloway on the left comes away with the ball riding a challenge pushing on goes to shoot 20 yards out putting the ball up into the air drops down into the side netting at the near post.

  GOAL! The game is into the closing minutes when Aylsham get themselves a corner kick on the right hand side, everyone has to go forwards fill the box the delivery is excellent from Charlton the ball flying in with pace at Lacey closest goes to attack it doesn’t connect, but her presence has left Bird behind her unchallenged to leap and power a bullet header into the back of the net to make it 1-1 and possibly send the final into extra time.

Aylsham FC Ladies captain Vicki Bird powering in the header to make it 1-1!
  GOAL! What a finish to the game. Aylsham were a goal down with less than 5 minutes left on the clock, pull it level, then would you believe it they take the lead! The goal coming from an seemingly innocuous free kick given away inside the Wymondham half in front of the centre circle right side, Charlton over the ball, decides to take on the strike a beauty too hits it hard flying towards goal a little swerve on it Hamilton-Rout can’t get anything on it as it sails past her into the top corner to send Aylsham into delirium as they all race over to and Charlton is buried under everyone 2-1.
 No more than a couple of minutes left, Sally Hammerton and Collins are immediately sent back on gone from a winning to losing position in the matter of minutes conceding from 2 set-pieces they attack pile forwards Aylsham defend the ball lifted into the box is launched up the pitch Wymondham have no time to come again as the final whistle blows and Aylsham FC Ladies pull off the spectacular winning the NWGFL League Cup winning 2-1. An amazing turn around to snatch a win from the jaws of defeat a fantastic way to win a game a heart breaking way to lose.
Aylsham FC Ladies, NWGFL Cup Final Winners
Congratulations to Aylsham FC Ladies winning the NWGFL Cup Final. 
The presentations didn’t end there today either 2 otherfinals taking place today, Sprowston Girls FC winning the U15s League Cup Final. In the Norfolk Women’s 7’s Final Hellesdon Belles beat Costessey Sports FC 2-0.
  Despite their heartbreak in today’s Cup Final, Wymondham Town Ladies are still top of Norfolk Women’s Division One and best placed to win the league title. In regards to Norfolk Women’s Division’s Two and Three the title has already been decided and the Champions from both were here to collect their winners plaque and player trophies.
 
Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies Champions of  NWGFL Division Two
  Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies were in a battle with North Walsham Angels Ladies all season from the NWGFL Division Two title, have gone the entire league campaign unbeaten to finish top in just their 2nd season as a club and have a Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final to look forwards to playing Ipswich Town Ladies at Portman Road next Monday 9th May. 
Gorleston FC Ladies NWGFL Division Three title winners
  Gorleston FC Ladies have won the NWGFL Women’s Division Three title with 2 games left to play with a 100% league win record in just their 1st season together.
  A busy, but enjoyable day at Plantation Park, 2 finals watched, a good sized crowd coming to support all the games played today. Thanks to Wymondham and Aylsham for their help with the teams and the NWGFL volunteers for their help today to doing a great job to grow the game.

Plate Final Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies

  The 1st of 2 match reports from covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday. Finals day in the Norfolk Women’s & Girls Football League (NWGFL) 4 finals played at Plantation Park the 1st kicking off at 12:30pm for the League Plate a new competition introduced this season, featuring 2 sides playing in their 1st ever final game too, North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies. 

Cup Final Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Red Rose Ladies

 
  This Sunday is Finals day in the Norfolk Women & Girls Football League (NWGFL) played at Plantation Park home of Norwich United FC & Norwich City Ladies. 4 finals being played at the venue today, The Women’s League Cup and Plate Finals as well as the U15s League Cup Final and Women’s 7’s Final. Here to watch the 1st of the women’s finals the Plate Final between North Walsham Angels Ladies & Red Rose Ladies.

  The NWGFL Plate is a new competition introduced this season with the 16 sides that didn’t reach the quarter finals of the Women’s League Cup going into the 1st Round draw.

Road to the Final
 
   North Walsham Angels Ladies were formed 2 seasons ago and have achieved promotion from Division Two to Division One this season now have a chance to add a piece of silverware cap off a good season. Were awarded a home win against Freethorpe Ladies in the 1st Round to advance to the quarter finals to play at home again testing themselves against higher league opposition taking on Bungay Town Ladies. Hit 7 goals to win 7-3 and progress into the semi-finals where they had the luck of a home draw once again taking on fellow Division Two side Morley Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 sent them through to the final.
  Opponents Red Rose Ladies had the opposite run to the final with all of their ties away from home. Like North Walsham Angels Ladies compete in Division Two are one of the longest established women’s football sides in Norfolk based in Cawston, their women’s side has reached a final for the 1st time. A trip to the Norfolk coast in the 1st Round away to Division Three side Cromer Ladies scored 8 goals without reply to reach the quarter finals drawn against fellow Division Two side Bohemians Ladies scored another 8 goals beating them 8-2 to set up a semi-final against Stalham Town Ladies again from Division Two a closer game this time around Red Rose Ladies edged the result 2-1 to reach the final. 

  Was for a much welcome change a bright sunny and warm day at the start of May perfect weather for the finals. Plantation Park boasting a large pitch with the clubhouse and bar situated at one end leading into the ground. Pitches behind enabling more than one game to be played at once. A small seated stand along one side opposite the dug out, spectators spread out all around as referee Tracey Clayton led the 2 sides out onto the pitch.

 North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Sian Wager (C), Emily Farmer, Megan Champion, Bethany Childs,  Rachel Bussey, Amy Hemp, Sophie Hall, Lauren Yarham, Emma Allsopp & Luci Middleton.
 subs – Imogen Carver, Robyn Steele & Lucy Ellis.

 Red Rose Ladies starting XI – Melissa Williamson, Natasha Willmott, Sophie Tipper, Emily Hill (C), Stacey High, Ellen Hutton, Megan Skinner, Vicki Lubbock, Corinne Bishop, Lauren Hems & Sophie Lubbock.
 subs – Ana Ohde

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Red Rose to get the final underway wearing red shirts, black shorts and socks with North Walsham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Red Rose win a series of throws down the left side of the pitch early on the ball is sent forwards down the left channel with Sophie Lubbock coming across to support the attack wins her side a corner kick, from the left is swept in towards the near post, North Walsham’s Bethany Childs gets control of the ball and brings it out from the box.
Red Rose Ladies, Sophie Tipper
   Wide right for North Walsham, Rachel Bussey is given the ball holding it up, Emma Allsopp runs beyond her towards the area, Bussey puts the ball into her path, Red Rose’s Sophie Tipper tackles on the edge of the area, blocking Allsopp as she looks to shoot. Attacking again up the left side Lauren Yarham brings the ball on the throw is conceded comes to Luci Middleton on that side entering the box, flashes a cross along the Red Rose six yard box is just behind the Allsopp and Bussey making runs in front of goal, Bussey goes after the ball retrieving it sends the cross back in, Red Rose captain, Emily Hill intercepts and gets the ball out of her area.
North Walsham Angels Ladies captain, Sian Wager
 Red Rose have the 1st shot to test Cyan Fullbrook in the North Walsham goal coming from distance off the boot of Sophie Lubbock 25 yards out looping up and down drops short of goal favourably for Fullbrook to claim as she back towards her goal. Red Rose are keeping North Walsham pinned back in their area, Sophie Lubbock looking to take players on in particular is keeping North Walsham captain Sian Wager busy attacking on the right side. North Walsham get hold of the ball Amy Hemp in midfield onto Middleton who plays a smart ball out to the right side releasing Bussey reaching the corner of the Red Rose area pulls the trigger, smashes her shot against Tipper coming to block her the ball spinning away for a corner kick. 
   Red Rose clear the corner out of their area, North Walsham quickly regain possession the Hemp getting on the ball puts it back out to the right for Bussey into the box wide of goal cuts the ball back six yard box from the byline is behind Middleton whose touch takes her away from goal, going after the ball, has one thing on her mind turn and hit the shot on the volley, turns well, sends the shot high off target to the left of goal.  
  GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and North Walsham get themselves into the lead, attacking in numbers the ball is with Bussey on the right side breaking into the box squares the cross into Middleton in the centre turns the ball goalwards, Red Rose goalkeeper, Melissa Williamson gets down sharply saving, the ball is spilt out to the left side of her goal, Hill tries to launch it clear, but Yarham is coming in gets hold of the ball from the attempted clearance and fires the ball back across the six yard box putting it into the back of the net 1-0. 
 
Lauren Yarham battling for the ball against Red Rose’s Corinne Bishop
for the ball scorer of the opening goal for North Walsham
  From a free kick on half-way Red Rose look to play in Sophie Lubbock on right side wins a free kick herself fouled by Sian Wager this time. In a dangerous position from a wide position the ball is sent into the box, Stacey High looks to hook the ball on further into the area, Fullbrook has come the bounce of the ball leaves her stranded, but before Megan Skinner can pounce on the loose ball, North Walsham’s defence gets the ball clear. 
  Allsopp with a fantastic forwards pass sends Middleton through to attack the Red Rose box on the right channel closing in on the D goes for goal a low strike aiming for the far corner, Williamson throws herself to the ground getting something on the ball to take it out wide past the far post conceding the corner kick. 
  Sophie Lubbock wins another free kick in a wide right position takes it sending the ball up to the near post to be attacked, her sister Vicki arrives to meet it jumping to head the ball it loops up into the air, Fullbrook is in the right place to see it down into her midriff. Imogen Carver has come on for North Walsham with Emily Farmer off.
  GOAL! North Walsham extend their lead as the game closes in on the half hour mark, with play ebbing and flowing between the two sides North Walsham turn the red Rose defence, the ball lifted out of midfield puts Middleton clear to run in on goal left side of the area reaching the corner meets the ball, lifting her shot up over Williamson and into the back of the net beyond. 2-0.
 
  Continuing to press North Walsham win a corner on the right the ball is put into the six yard box, Allsopp stoops to head the ball far side of goal trying to put the ball back across, puts it wide off target. Taking a 2-0 lead North Walsham have their tails up are looking for more, Hill calls for her side to remain calm not let their heads drop. Lauren Hems turns well as the ball is rolled into her from Natasha Willmott at the back, has Sophie Lubbock on the move on the right, plays the ball up to her the cross comes in early falling short of Skinner, Megan Champion brings the ball down and puts it up into midfield. A change for Red Rose with Skinner coming off and Ana Ohde coming on up front along side Sophie Lubbock. 
  Middleton is a constant threat leading the line for North Walsham always looking to move into space is put through on the right by Sophie Hall, racing into the box the angle is against her as she goes to put the ball goalwards Williamson gets down pushing the ball away, the ball isn’t cleared far before North Walsham the ball fired back into the area is turned away for the corner. The set-piece fired in low to the near post area Middleton comes to meet it looks to spin at hit the shot Red Rose get the bodies in the way to see it blocked.
Red Rose’s Ana Ohde with North Walsham’s Luci Middleton
  Bussey with the ball high up the pitch gets support from Yarham coming up the pitch giving her the ball as she moves inside she looks to send the ball into the area with Allsopp drifting into the centre around the penalty spot, any touch would divert the ball beyond Williamson in the centre of goal, can’t quite connect and the ball is collected by the goalkeeper. 
  A set-piece late in the 1st half for Red Rose right side just beyond the corner of the area Corinne Bishop is over the ball this time the shot comes in low with venomous pace, Fullbrook diving full stretch to her right pushes the ball away from goal, then is hurt as a Red Rose player collides with her play stopped so she can receive treatment. 

Half-time North Walsham Angels Ladies 2-0 Red Rose Ladies

  A 2-0 lead for North Walsham at the break look to be in control of the match creating chances and getting in behind, whilst defending deep limiting Red Rose’s chances at the other end, Champion and Childs intercepting a good portion of the attempted through balls and crosses. 2-0 though is a often a tricky lead, a chance to regroup during the half-time period can Red Rose get themselves back into the final.
  North Walsham get proceedings underway 2nd half. Red Rose press the ball right from the off 2nd half. Get hold of the ball and win a corner on the right side as Ohde plays the ball out to High moving into space down the wing looking to see the ball out Childs has to concede the corner. Is a great delivery from the corner a little to high for Sophie Lubbock leaping near side 10 yards out, drops for Vicki beyond a firm connection from the header drills it wide of goal. 
   Red Rose have started well 2nd half the ball is put up into Bishop moving out wide holds up with Vicki Lubbock making the run to go beyond her towards the North Walsham area the ball is laid into her path hits the shot early the ball flying towards goal has Fullbrook back peddling rapidly threatening to go over her, dips very late falling straight into her open gloves on the line. 
  Hemp makes a strong run brings the ball forwards is tackled by Hill stepping out of the back line to close her down and win the ball. Middleton has a shot from the edge of the area a low strike doesn’t carry any pace behind it allowing Williamson to get down and hold onto it. Vicki Lubbock is having more say in the middle of the park 2nd half getting onto the ball for Red Rose unleashes a shit 20 yards out a little swerve on it will probably drift wide of the top corner, Fullbrook can’t be sure throws up her gloves to palm the ball down to her right and claim before Hems racing up the left side into the area can latch onto it.
Amy Hemp on the ball for North Walsham
   Change for North Walsham, Robyn Steele coming on for Allsopp. See’s Yarham who had been playing at left back since Farmer had come off moving back into an advanced position. Hall brings the ball down the left for North Walsham plays the ball inside to Middleton coming to the left across the front of the Red Rose area, attempts to play the ball on for Carver in the centre, Willmott makes a timely step up to get her foot on the ball take it away from danger. 
  Champion fouls Vicki Lubbock in the centre of midfield inside the North Walsham half Bishop, bounces it’s way through to Hems on the left side of the North Walsham area plays it back towards Vicki Lubbock central fires the shot in coming in low Fullbrook gets down to put everything behind the save. Skinner returns to the field for Red Rose with Hutton giving way. 
  GOAL! North Walsham extend their lead, a superb solo run and goal from Middleton to score her 2nd of the match the ball rolled into her inside the Red Rose half right side she carries it forwards, takes on the player in front of her getting it past and keeping her feet as she is clipped surging on into the box closing in on goal, an acute angle scores with a clinical finish smashing the ball across the keeper and into the back of the net 3-0.
 
A Plate Final hat-trick for
Luci Middleton
  GOAL! One goal brings another and it’s Middleton who scores again to complete a cup final (well plate) hat-trick. Red Rose have pushed up attacking the ball is regained by North Walsham the play coming down the left the ball is sent over to the far side of the area, Williamson comes off her line to the edge of the area, Carver just gets there 1st squaring the ball back across to Middleton left of the D who has an empty goal to shoot at, keeps it simply turning the ball on target with the inside of her boot to get mobbed by her team mates  lead 4-0 with a little over 20 minutes left to play. 
 
   Red Rose are still looking for a goal trying to get players forwards, Hems sets Sophie Lubbock after the ball, Champion on her shoulder at the pair race into the area, Fullbrook comes out of her goal sliding in to claim the ball as Champion gets across Lubbock’s path. Yarham and Carver combine up the left side for North Walsham, the former getting free to cross the ball along the front of the Red Rose area into Middleton she helps it on for Hemp behind her, is unfortunate as she scuffs her shot rolls harmlessly through to Williamson.
  Free kick wide right half way inside the Red Rose half for North Walsham the ball lifted up to the edge of the area right side his headed across, both Carver then Yarham see shots charged down. Few players starting to suffer from cramp. Sophie Lubbock has a shot from the left side receiving the ball from a throw in lifted up to the near post, Fullbrook pulls it down and holds. Late into the game and another chance falls to Sophie Lubbock so unlucky not to pull at least one goal back bursting into the box right side of the D to get onto the through ball, shoots putting the ball across and beating the diving Fullbrook the keeper turns as the ball seemingly takes an age to get there strikes the bottom of the far post and rolls straight back into the keepers gloves. 
  Carver plays a great ball through the middle onto Middleton coming in from the left side the ball bouncing across her goes to strike it on the half volley, angling into the goal from left to right, Williamson gets a vital touch to take it wide of the post for the corner. The corner comes to nothing Red Rose attack Hems is bundled over in a dangerous position in front of the D. Vicki Lubbock over the free kick takes on the shot whipping the ball over the crossbar. 
  The final whistle blows and North Walsham Angels Ladies are the 1st side to win the Norfolk Ladies Plate Final beating Red Rose Ladies 4-0 to bring the 1st piece of silverware home to the club to cap off a promotion winning season. A goal from Lauren Yarham plus a hat-trick from Luci Middleton seeing their army of fans cheering with them in celebration. Looked the stronger side and 2 goals in each half saw them in control of the Plate Final. Red Rose never gave up and were unlucky not to get at least 1 goal back late in the game.
It’s a very shiny plate, North Walsham Angels Ladies celebrate their final win
  Congratulations to North Walsham Angels Ladies on their victory today. Thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups today… barely time to draw breath there’s another final about to kick-off.