Monthly Archives: February 2017

The Round-Up – FAWPL 19/02/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL/FA Women’s Cup – Sunday 19th February

FA Women’s Cup

The FA Women’s Cup reached the 4th Round Proper this weekend 250+ entrants whittled down to just 12 for 6 ties to see who would be going on to play in the 5th Round where the 10 sides from FAWSL 1 enter the competition. Of those 6 ties, 2 featured sides from the FAWPL Southern Division both with a home tie on Sunday taking on FAWSL 2 opposition.

Was a Midlands derby match at Pack Meadow with Coventry United Ladies, 3rd in the Southern Division taking on Aston Villa Ladies who had dispatched FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC 7-1 in the 3rd Round. Coventry United had beaten FAWPL 2 side Oxford United Ladies in the 3rd Round to set up today’s tie. A single goal settling the match in the end coming 15 minutes into the 1st half with ex-Coventry player and current Aston Villa Ladies captain volleying the ball into the back of the net from the edge of the box.

In the other FA Women’s Cup 4th Round tie featuring a side from the FAWPL Southern Division league leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competition so far this season were hosting new promoted FAWSL 2 side Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. A tough test for the home side Tottenham started positively Nikita Whinnett placing a shot wide in the opening 10 minutes a fast tempo to the game two well organised defences saw an intriguing 1st half end goalless. Tottenham started the 2nd half as strongly as the 1st Whinnett seeing a shot fired across the Brighton goal come back out off the post to be met by Bianca Baptiste (pictured) who sent her shot back in cannoning off the crossbar. On 57 minutes the break through goal came, Whinnett playing the ball into Wendy Martin inside the box, turning her shot was blocked the clearance going wide to Baptiste on the left sent the ball back in towards goal up over the goalkeeper and in to give Tottenham the lead. Held on to win the game and make history knocking out FAWSL 2 opposition for the 1st time in the FA Women’s Cup. The game was covered by the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday and the whole match report can be found below this post or by clicking on the link below.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup was made this Monday and will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies away to FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies in a North London derby match. The ties for the 5th Round are scheduled for Sun 19th March and the full draw is listed below.

Arsenal Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

Birmingham City Ladies v West Bromich Albion Ladies

Chelsea Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Bristol City Women v Millwall Lionesses

Manchester City Women v Reading FC Women

Liverpool Ladies v Everton Ladies

Notts County Ladies v Yeovil Town Ladies

FAWPL Southern Division

With Tottenham Hotspur Ladies & Coventry United Ladies involved in the FA Women’s Cup and 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women playing in the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup, 4th placed Cardiff City Ladies took full advantage to win and go back to the top of the table on goal recovering from last weekends set back that saw them lose their unbeaten record in the league defeated 2-0 by Charlton Athletic Women. Cardiff City were at home playing Swindon Town Ladies. Cori Williams scoring a hat-trick in the game to take her into double figures for the season, already their were Kerry Bartlett and Chloe Chivers who both netted a brace in the match. Abbie Britton completing the 8-0 winning scoreline with a goal.

In the other match played in the Southern Division at the weekend Lewes Ladies travelled to Uxbridge FC to play bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. The side fought out a goalless 1st half. Lewes going on to score 7 minutes into the 2nd half with Danielle Lane on target to make it 1-0. Kellie Larkin coming of the bench scoring her 1st goal for the 1st team this season with 14 minutes left to play putting the ball into the back of the net from a free-kick to seal the 3 points with a 2-0 win move up into 6th spot above C&K Basildon Ladies and Portsmouth FC Ladies all 3 on 14 points.

FAWPL South East Division One

One game played in South East Division One on Sunday and 4th placed Gillingham FC Ladies took full advantage of their rivals all being involved in County Cup action as they continued their unbeaten run with a big away win in Norfolk against bottom side Norwich City Ladies. Charlotte Gurr in a hot streak in front of goal since rejoining the club bagged herself 5 more goals at Plantation Park on Sunday, Jade Keogh, Gillingham’s captain netting a brace with a goal a piece for Jenny Newman and Rosie Kmita who was with Cambridge United WFC up until last week. The win moves Gillingham into 2nd level on points with Cambridge United WFC who drop to 3rd are now 4 points behind leaders Milton Keynes Dons Ladies with 3 games in hand.

Capital Women’s Cup

Defending Cup Holders, Charlton Athletic Women reached the final of the Capital Women’s Cup again with an emphatic home win against Actonians Ladies in the semi-final this weekend. Charley Clifford giving Charlton the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Avilla Bergin soon doubling their advantage. Actonians pulled to back to 2-1 with half an hour played. Two goal on two minutes from Kit Graham and Gemma Shepherd saw Charlton leading 4-1 at half-time. Charlton went on to consolidate their lead in the 2nd half, Shepherd completing her hat-trick had 4 goals to her name with 60 minutes on the clock. Bergin netting her 2nd of the game saw Charlton through to the final with an 8-1 victory where they will play either Tottenham Hotspur Ladies or Crystal Palace Ladies.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

This Sunday’s football action on the SWF Blog came from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup with 12 sides left in the competition vying for 6 spots in the 5th Round when the 10 FAWSL 1 sides enter the cup. The venue today Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competitions so far this season take on their biggest test yet FAWSL 2 opposition with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the visitors.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup the entrants whittled down to just 12 sideLondonontest 6 ties to be joined by the sides from FAWSL 1 that will enter the competition in the 5th Round, today it’s a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on the newest side to join the FAWSL, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

Have been trying to get down to see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play twice so far in 2017 but the weather has put pay to that both times around, they are enjoying a fabulous season so far are undefeated in all competitions with just the one draw in the league to date. Into the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup and FAWPL Cup where they are defending the trophy. Have also reached the Boux Avenue Final for the 3rd consecutive season. A tough challenge today against FAWSL opposition in the cup as Tottenham look to be one of the few remaining FAWPL sides to make it into the 5th Round Proper.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies entered this season’s FA Women’s Cup in the 1st Round Proper of the competition were drawn at home to Leyton Orient WFC a single goal scored by Wendy Martin taking the FAWPL Southern Division leaders through to the 2nd Round Proper where they were drawn at home playing FAWPL South East Division One side, Gillingham FC Ladies a much more comfortable result winning 3-0 to set up a long away trip to play FAWPL Northern Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The sides level at 1-1 going into 2nd half injury time Bianca Baptiste scored for Tottenham in the 93rd minute to seal a 2-1 victory and a home draw in the 4th Round against Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC did last season what Tottenham are hope to achieve this time around, win the FAWPL Southern Division title. Went on to beat Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off game back in May last year. Making their bow in the FAWSL 2 Spring Series last Saturday earning a 1-1 draw away to London Bees. Played their 1st competitive match of the season in the previous round of the FA Women’s Cup before that the FAWSL 2 sides entering the competition in the 3rd Round Proper were drawn away to FAWPL South East Division One side, AFC Wimbledon Ladies won the game 4-1 to advance to the next round.

Cheshunt FC the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, the pitch a good size showing a little wear has seen alot of football this season, was nevertheless firm and dry underfoot. The weather has been poor at the start of 2017 plenty of matches called off but no danger of that this Sunday a fairly mild day for February dark clouds overhead a hint of a light shower but nothing else as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Leah Rawle, Lucia Leon, Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Riana Soobadoo, Bianca Baptiste, Nikita Whinnett & Wendy Martin.
subs – Megan Lynch, Kelley Blanchflower, Maya Vio & Eartha Pond.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicki Ashton-Jones, Charlotte Young, Kirsty Barton, Laura Rafferty, Lucy Somes, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
subs – Leah Samain, Hollie Olding, Bronwen Thomas & Ellie Dorey

It’s Brighton to get today’s FA Women’s Cup tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing orange shirts, white shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, navy shorts and socks. Right from the 1st Brighton touch Tottenham move in quickly to press the ball winning possession the ball is played forwards up to Wendy Martin in attack inside the box is played back to Nikita Whinnett who joined the club from Charlton Athletic Women in the summer, outside the area is closed down go Jenna Legg as she looks to turn in behind the ball lost is picked up by Leah Rawle getting forwards from the back for Tottenham drives with the ball at her feet down the left wing squaring a high cross into the Brighton six yard box is comfortably claimed by goalkeeper, Emma Byrne.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Wendy Martin

Brighton get hold of the ball as it is played into the feet of Kate Natkiel helps it on out to the right wing with Alessia Russo getting forwards cutting back inside as she reaches the top of the Tottenham box cuts across her shot as she sends the ball goalwards causing it it swerve away from goal landing in the side netting. The game has started at a rapid tempo no one afforded much time on the ball, winning it at the back Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci plays it long through the middle with Whinnett making a central run getting clear of the Brighton centre-backs, Byrne is well placed at the top of the area to gather before the striker can capitalise.

Lucia Leon is forwards on the right for Tottenham as the home side builds an attack has support from Sophie McLean they exchange passes 25 yards out before Leon threaded a diagonal ball into the box looking for Martin near post, looks to see the ball across her body intending to take a shot, Whinnett slips her marker making a move for the ball leaning into the shot reaches it before Martin sends her effort curling wide of the post.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Nikita Whinnett

Tottenham playing 3 at the back are playing a high line, looks risky if the opposition can get in behind however they drop back very quickly went their opponents regain the ball and with Josie Green playing just in front of the back 3 the defenders either side of Schillaci, Renee Hector and Rawle can move across to deal with their respective wide players. In attack Whinnett and Bianca Baptiste on the right side are providing the width but the Brighton defence is well organised and the final ball from both sides is being won by a defender in the early exchanges.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies
captain Jenna Schillaci

Leon get’s hold of the ball inside the Brighton half for Tottenham rolls it on for Baptiste down the right wing taking the ball down to the byline into the area her attempted cross is charged down by Vicki Ashton-Jones as she goes to ground the ball rebounding back to Baptiste tries again playing the ball in towards the near post is scooped up on the bounce by Byrne. A quick counter attack the ball played into midfield Laura Rafferty plays it to Lucy Somes on the left side playing it on for Amy Taylor the striker with Hector on her shoulder heads for the box left of goal is past the onrushing keeper but play is brought back as Taylor fouled hector in the process.

Russo closes down Schillaci taking the ball from the defender as she tries to bring it out from the back running in behind takes on the shot from outside the box, her low drive stopped by goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne diving to her left. Green carries the ball forwards for Tottenham passing it onto Riana Soobadoo ahead of her sends the ball out towards Baptiste on the right a burst of pace before playing a pacey cross in towards martin moving towards the near post, can’t get a touch as the ball runs across her races across the face of goal and out of play for a goal-kick at the far post.

Brighton captain, Sophie Perry is allowed to travel with the ball on the left plays it on for Somes ahead of her comes in field before rolling the ball across to Taylor outside the box, her 1st time strike is blocked by Schillaci. End to end Tottenham soon have the ball up the other end over the top with Baptiste giving chase Byrne plays the ball wide attempting to put it out for a throw is retrieved by Martin who plays it back in to Baptiste 25 yards out takes on the strike her shot sailing over the bar. Brighton are getting a little frustrated are pinned back inside their half with Tottenham pressing all over the park can’t get anything to stick higher up the pitch.

Nikita Whinnett holds Brighton captain, Sophie Perry off the ball

Somes is fouled wide on the left with around 10 minutes of the 1st half left, Charlotte Young makes a late run to get up into the area from the back as Perry delivers the ball into the area, is over Young dropping for Hector beyond her clearance is picked up by Natkiel 25 yards out drives the ball low into the area, is blocked too many bodies to go through, running out of play the referee gives a goal-kick. The 1st corner of the game doesn’t come until the 37th minute going to Tottenham, Martin forcing the error from Young the set-piece comes to nothing.

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to get the better of Tottenham’s Jenna Schillaci

Leon steals in to win the ball inside the Brighton half getting it forwards produces a defence splitting pass to thread the ball in towards Martin centrally positioned inside the area, Legg with a superb recovering tackle gets across in the nick of time to take the ball away from Martin’s toes Young clearing the ball from the area. The last 5 minutes of the 1st half is full of promising attacks but both defences working hard to stop the final ball see very little action inside the box. Late on into injury time in the 1st half Natkiel getting the ball out to Russo right earns Brighton a throw-in, played in towards Russo outside the Tottenham area turns in field heading for the box jinks right avoiding Rawle’s lunging challenge then rifles her shot over the crossbar.

Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

An intriguing 1st half an entertaining game so far 2 closely matched sides testing each other out, few chances created in the match despite both sides constantly looking for an opening. Tottenham have edged the chances in front of goal although neither goalkeeper has been tested yet. Beautifully poised the 2nd half could go either way.

No changes for either side although Rafferty has a bandaged knee following a knock picked up in the 1st half for Brighton. Tottenham to get the 2nd half started. Have the early possession McLean playing the ball forwards into Martin with Whinnett close by, outside the area a shot comes in runs wide of goal.

Tottenham have a throw-in high up the pitch on the right the ball is played into Whinnett’s feet turning inside pushes for the box right of goal unleashes a shot flies across Byrne positioned centrally, strikes the far post and rebounds out towards Baptiste racing into the area throws herself at the ball, flies up over Byrne coming down off the crossbar Brighton struggle to get it clear coming back to Baptiste has another go a wild strike flies high over the bar.

Rafferty getting the ball forwards has Somes in space out wide left picks her out with a well timed long pass, Somes looks to control and come inside top of the area thread the ball into Taylor in a central position, Leon has support from Soobadoo as the pair get back to squeeze Somes off the ball before she can deliver the final ball. Brighton push numbers forwards with purpose in the next attack the ball from Barton out to the right lifted into the area Taylor hitting it on the run is blocked at close range the rebound falling favourably for Tottenham to clear.

GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken, Tottenham have a throw up on the the right inside the Brighton half the ball is played into Whinnett who comes inside with the ball 25 yards out across the face of the area rolls the ball into Martin back to goal inside the area turns her shot blocked by Ashton-Jones closely marking her the ball is cleared out to the left going straight to Baptiste, takes on the shot from distance her strike flying over Byrne and under the bar into the back of the net to give Tottenham the lead 1-0.

Tottenham’s Bianca Baptiste with Brighton’s Charlotte Young

McLean is fouled as she holds the ball up wide on the right Tottenham send players forwards into the box as Hector stands over the set-piece the ball is flighted in to the area with Whinnett making a run from the penalty spot to the near post, the delivery too close to Byrne the goalkeeper can get her gloves firmly around the ball 1st. Whinnett on the ball a powerful run on the right lays the pass inside for McLean 25 yards out central sends a high ball into the box, Byrne calls and claims it with Martin in behind her.

Young sends the ball long from the back for Brighton with Somes giving chase into the left corner coming back up the pitch plays it across the top of the area into Barton, shifts it looking for room to play a pass sending it on for Natkiel top of the D puts the ball into the area with Taylor after it, Green is ahead of her looks to shield the ball out of play as it runs wide, gets a shove from Taylor a bit of afters sees Taylor yellow carded. Natkiel gets possession of the ball on the right pushing forwards her cross into the area is headed away by Rawle, dropping towards Barton outside the area, has no time to see the ball down onto the floor goes for the acrobatic sends the ball goalwards too high however whistles over the bar.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC’s, Kirsty Barton

The game is stretched the tempo hasn’t dropped in the slightest, Brighton pressing looking for an equaliser, Tottenham wanting a 2nd goal. Ashton-Jones fouls Whinnett on halfway, Baptiste over the ball floats it up towards the top of the area, Young headers clear, falling to Soobadoo hits it back in along the ground, blocked then cleared. Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards giving Brighton a free-kick 35 yards out, Perry on the ball goes for goal, Wayne can see the ball run wide of goal. Tottenham make their 1st change on 71 minutes bringing on Maya Vio for Soobadoo.

Brighton’s Jenna Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards

Brighton respond with a double change on 76 minutes with Rafferty and Somes the players coming off, Bronwen Thomas and Hollie Olding. Martin and Whinnett try a one two outside the area Ashton-Jones nips in to tackle and win the ball. Russo is playing through the middle now for Brighton supporting Taylor with Natkiel left, Thomas right win a corner, Tottenham defend well threaten to counter attack, Barton wins the ball back. The ball is played out to Thomas attacking down the right fizzes a cross in towards the near post getting down falling onto the ball Wayne spills her initial save but recovers quickly to get up smother the ball with Taylor closing in.

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC
captain, Sophie Perry

Perry brings the ball on down the left for Brighton her cross is cut back towards the top of the area controlled well by Thomas just inside the area plays it back to Natkiel lays it out to Legg coming in from the right her ball lifted into the area runs wide at the near post. Perry again up the left for Natkiel who plays it inside to Russo sees Wayne off her line tries the lob from distance but off target bounces wide of goal. Baptiste run of running gets across from the left to the right winning a throw-in for Tottenham the ball is played into McLean plays it into Whinnett central takes on the shot places the ball straight into Byrne who holds onto the ball.

Into the closing minutes Brighton break down the right Russo with the ball at her feet sends in a low drive angling into the bottom corner, Wayne dives full stretch across her goal to get a glove to the ball push it with a vital save to keep Tottenham’s lead intact. Tottenham defend the corner kick. Brighton push everyone forwards late into the game everyone bar their keeper in the Tottenham half, risk the counter but need the goal get hit on the break Whinnett getting in behind on the right holds the ball up well before playing in inside to Martin a good turn before playing it on for Baptiste coming in from the left her goal bound effort blocked by Legg.

Into injury time and the last place Brighton want the ball is with the Tottenham attackers in the corner. The home side do a great job of keeping the ball there to see out the game and win, Bianca Baptiste’s strike enough to see the FAWPL Southern Division side into the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

A really good contest to watch this one, 2 very good sides, a single goal enough to win the game, Tottenham continuing their excellent run of form, can see why they are doing so well and glad I got down to see them at last this season. Brighton created chances but not much inside the box, prevented very little inside their box as well both sides pressing the ball Tottenham just had the extra bit of movement in their legs to get the result on the day.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A good all round team performance from Tottenham today, a well taken goal from Baptiste, however today’s SWF Blog Player of the Match goes to Josie Green in midfield covered plenty of ground in front of the defence stifling Brighton’s attack winning the ball and a range of pass to turn a defensive position into a rapid attack.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Josie Green

My thanks to Tottenham for helping me out with the teams today.

*UPDATE* The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies away from home in a North London derby on the weekend of 18th/19th March.

The Round-Up – Essex 12/02/17

The Round-Up

Essex – Sunday 12th February

Essex Women’s Premier Division

The fixture list in Essex was hit heavily by the weather this weekend with just 3 games surviving on Sunday. At the Harlow Arena, Premier Division leaders Harlow Town Ladies were looking for their 13th straight league win to take them 9 points clear at the top of the table as they hosted Alresford Colne Rangers. Harlow Town Ladies made it 13 from 13 in the league with an 8-1 victory, looking strong as the club bids for a 2nd successive league title.

It was 5th versus 6th in the other game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this weekend with Runwell Sports Ladies at home to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A 7 goal thriller between the 2 sides and despite a Jo Smeaton hat-trick, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies left empty handed as Runwell Sports Ladies ran out 4-3 winners with Danielle Stace netting a brace along with a goal each for Sophie Olley and Danni Dorrington. The win lifting Runwell Sports up a place above Eastern Avenue and level on points with 3rd placed Lawford Ladies.

Tiptree & District Charity Cup

After 2 defeats on the County Cup and league respectfully Lawford Ladies were glad to get back to winning ways at the weekend as they reached the semi-finals of the Tiptree & District Women’s Charity Cup on Sunday. Were on home turf taking on fellow Premier Division side Wickford Town Ladies. 5-1 the final score. Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies have a bye to the semi-finals with Walden Ladies due to play Harlow Ladies for a place in the semi-finals. Chelmsford City Ladies & Frontiers Ladies saw their quarter-final postponed this weekend.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 12/02/17

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 12th February

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A limited fixture list across the Beds & Herts Women’s Division’s this weekend with 2 games beating the weather in both Division One and Two a wipe-out of games in Division Three. Division One was as competitive a league as any last season and again this season it is proving to be the case with leaders Sandy Ladies losing for the 2nd successive match having lost out to bottom side Letchworth Garden City Eagles last Sunday lost away from home this weekend against 5th placed side Garston Ladies beating Sandy 2-1 to move onto 15 points in the middle of the table now 6 points behind the leaders with 3 games in hand.

Above Garston Ladies 2nd placed side St Albans Ladies 3 points behind leaders Sandy were on the road taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies 3 points further back in 4th spot. Bishops Stortford scored twice in the 1st half to take a 2 goal lead before Sophie Monahan and Ellie Lovelock pulled it back to 2-2 for St Albans Ladies a late goal in the 1st half seeing Bishops Stortford leading at half-time the home side going on to score 2 more in the 2nd half to win 5-2 a brace each for Rosee Golding and Yasmin Smith with Brooke White also on target in the win, the 3 points see Bishops Stortford move up 2 places above St Albans Ladies both on 18 points, Bishops Stortford like Garston have 3 games in hand on leaders Sandy with the gap just 3 points now. More twists and turns to come at the top no doubt in the next few weeks.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

Equally intriguing in the battle for top spot in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two with 2 matches being played at the weekend. Hitchin Belles have been on an excellent run of late jumping all the way up to the top of the table. Collecting 10 points from their last 4 league games unbeaten. Were at home against bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets on Sunday had beaten them 4-1 in the reverse fixture 3 weeks ago. Hitchin Belles only had 10 players available for this Sunday’s fixture were to fall 2-0 down inside the opening 15 minutes Woburn & Wavendon with 2 quickfire goals from Dominique Hull and Charlotte Demmon. Demmon went on to score her 2nd on the half hour mark, Emma Payne seeing the visitors leading 4-0 with 5 minutes of the 1st half left. Ruth Fox pulling a goal back for Hitchin Belles just before half-time. It was 4-2 early in the 2nd half with Amy Jack striking the ball home for Hitchin Belles. Demmon extended Woburn & Wavendon’s lead as she completed her hat-trick 15 minutes into the 2nd half. Another goal for Fox late on seeing the league leaders succumb to a 5-3 defeat, the 1st points on the board for Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets moves them off the bottom of the table. You can read Hitchin Belles report from the game by clicking on the link below to take you to their website.

http://www.hitchinbelles.com/teams/151427/match-centre/1-2518225

Evergreen Ladies are now bottom of Division Two after they lost at home to Garston Ladies FC 96 on Sunday. Goals for Lauren Berryman, Leah Crocket and a brace from Jade Roberts seeing Garston going into the half-time break leading 4-0. Connie Coombes scoring a 5th goal for the visitors in the 2nd half before Natalie Maher pulled it back to 5-2 scoring twice for Evergreen Ladies. The win sees Garston Ladies FC 96 leap from 6th to 3rd in the Division Two table. Incredibly tight with 4 points separating the top 5 sides and in 6th 2 points further back Royston Town Ladies Reserves have games in hand on most of the sides above them the title is there for the taking.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 12/02/17

The Round-Up

Cambridgeshire – Sunday 12th February

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

A handful of league games played across the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football leagues this Sunday with the focus being on the quarter finals of the League Cup however these were heavily affected by the weather too with just the one at The Grange, on Netherton United Ladies all weather pitch surviving. The Premiership side were hosting Championship North side, Wisbech St Mary Ladies. Netherton United held the advantage at half-time leading 1-0 courtesy of a goal from Megan Strickland on 32 minutes. two quickfire goals from Emily Johnson on 56 and 58 minutes seeing Netherton United reach the semi-finals of the competition with a 3-0. You can read the match report on the clubs website by clicking on the link below.

http://www.nethertongirlsfootball.co.uk/teams/157315/match-centre/0-3422337

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

One match played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and with the withdrawal of Bourne Ladies from the league Park Ladies were now bottom as they hosted ICA Sports Ladies immediately above them in the table 3 points the gap. Park Ladies netted twice in the match but ultimately didn’t get anything from the game with the visitors scoring 3 times through Megan Purnell, Lindsay Short and Kerrie Holden-Jones to win the 3 points.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

The bottom two also met in the only game played in the Championship North this Sunday with Thurlby Tigers still looking for their 1st point of the season hosting Hungate Rovers Ladies. A goal each for Kelsey McKenna, Bianca Towler and Katy Walkey for Hungate seeing them win for the 2nd time this season both versus Thurlby.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Milton Ladies lost their unbeaten record last weekend against Championship South leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development, the 3rd placed side got back to winning ways this Sunday at home to Cambridge Rangers winning the game 3-0 the 3 points lifting them above Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves into 2nd place.

In the other game a late fixture change bottom side Orton Rangers Ladies hosted 4th placed Riverside Rovers Reserves the visitors racking up a double figure scoreline to take home the 3 points with a 12-0 win.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 12/02/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 12th February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Pretty much right across the East this weekend the county league program was hit hard by postponements with just a handful of games surviving after a wet and cold spell that saw a dusting of snow in most area’s come Sunday morning. In Norfolk this we no exception with just 4 games being played. In Division One the only fixture to survive was across the border in Suffolk with Brandon Town Ladies pitch bearing up extremely well considering the weather. Brandon were hosting Bungay Town Ladies who started the day 4th on the table on an excellent run of form on 2017 winning all of their games played to date a win today would see them up to 3rd in the table.

Bungay got off to a great start taking the lead inside the opening 6 minutes Laura Holden put through on goal the goalkeepers attempted clearance falling to her, her initial shot from the edge is stopped however Holden reacts quickly getting to ball 1st to send it into the back of the net at the 2nd attempt to make it 1-0. A fast paced game both sides looking to use the width of the pitch Bungay have further chances to add to their lead, Brandon goalkeeper, Shannon Odebrecht with a superb diving save to deny Ella Hindley. 1-0 the lead at the break the play resumed at the same frantic pace of the 1st half as Bungay went on to extend their lead scoring twice more in the 2nd half Holden turning provider for both goals playing the ball on for striker Stef Cool (pictured) to score a brace and see Bungay move into 3rd spot with a 3-0 win. The game was the featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday and you can read the report on this website or by clicking on the link below.

Brandon Town Ladies 0-3 Bungay Town Ladies

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Norfolk Women’s Division Two runaway leaders, Gorleston FC Ladies have had to wait a long time to continue their 100% winning record to the season having not been in league action since mid-December last year this was their 1st match of 2017 were on the road playing Briston Wanderers Ladies who they beat 5-3 in the same fixture back in September, the sides in the Division facing each other 3 times this season. A brace for Samantha Hunn along with a goal each for Molly Sims and Sophie Gillett saw Gorleston win the match 4-1 to extended their 100% record to 9 matches.

The game between Stalham Town Ladies and 2nd placed Long Stratton Ladies was switched to The Flegg FDC all weather pitch with the inclement weather around. A single goal enough to win all 3 points for Stalham Town Ladies.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

One game in Norfolk Women’s Division Three beat the weather on Sunday with Freethorpe Ladies making the journey to the coast to play 3rd placed side East Coast Ladies. Jordan Duke scoring in the 15th minute to give East Coast a 1-0 lead at the break. Lucy Robbens making it 2-0 from the penalty spot. Freethorpe pulling it back to 2-1 with around 15 minutes left to play, East Coast Ladies made sure of the 3 points with 5 minutes left to play Duke with her 2nd goal of the game the win taking East Coast Ladies above Tavern Ladies into 2nd place in the table.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 12/02/17

The Round-Up

Suffolk Women’s Division – Sunday 12th February

Two matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and a big win at home for league leaders Ipswich Town Ladies Development against one of the sides attempting to chase them down at the top of the table as the extended their unbeaten run to 10 games in league. Were at home hosting 3rd placed side Brantham Athletic Ladies, the visitors taking an early lead with Kirsten Hutchings through on goal in the 2nd minute to score. Ipswich came back into the match Emily Steward levelling the score before going on to score a penalty to see them lead 2-1. A penalty for Brantham saw them pull it back to 2-2 Lucy Dunnett with the spot kick. Sophie Leming restoring the lead for Ipswich before the break. Half-time 3-2 to Ipswich, Leming went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to complete her hat-trick and see the 3 points secured with a 5-2 win. The leaders moving 9 points clear at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division.

At the other end of the table Copleston Ladies had suffered the heart ache of a heavy 8-0 defeat on the opening day of the season, this Sunday they got to feel the opposite as they recorded an 8-0 win away to bottom side Ipswich Phoenix Ladies to record their 2nd league win of the season. Sophie Crane getting herself a hat-trick. Jemma Wessels scoring a brace for Copleston too with a goal each for Shannon Giles, Freya Louis and Elysia Young.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 12/02/17

The Round-Up

ERWFL – Sunday 12th February

ERWFL Premier Division

Was a postponement hit fixture schedule in the ERWFL this weekend with just 3 games played those on all weather surfaces. In the Premier Division two matches were played it was a local derby in Essex with 4th placed Brentwood Town Ladies hosting Billericay Town Ladies. The visitors were awarded a penalty, Hayley Piggott taking the spot kick scoring to give Billericay Town the lead. Billericay Town captain Lindsey Morgan on target to make it 2-0. Danielle Butler reduced the deficit to 2-1 for the home side but despite creating other chances Brentwood Town couldn’t find another goal, Billericay Town winning the 3 points to move onto 22 points for the season and with 13 played have games 3 games in hand on 2nd and 3rd placed Bedford Ladies and AFC Dunstable Ladies on 30 points each.

AFC Sudbury Ladies move above Brentwood Town Ladies into 4th place in the ERWFL Premier Division table after edging out Colchester Town Ladies in a 7 goal thriller at The Wardale Williams Stadium. The visitors taking the lead from the penalty spot with Nancy Butler making it 1-0 to Colchester. Sophie Jeffery drew AFC Sudbury level on the half hour mark before a goal each for Stacey Teager and Charlene Roach saw them go into the changing rooms with a 3-1 lead. Colchester started the 2nd half strongly captain Georgia Box grabbing 11th goal of the season in the 56th minute. 4 minutes later Miagh Downey scored to see Colchester pull it back to 3-3. Had come back from 2-0 down at half-time last weekend to win 3-2 at home to Royston Town Ladies. Wasn’t to be this time around as AFC Sudbury rallied and found the winner in the last 10 minutes, Mia Etheridge with the goal to see them take all 3 points.

ERWFL Division One

In the only game to go the distance in ERWFL Division One, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies were hosting bottom side Hoddesdon Town Ladies. Robyn Jones put Hoddesdon into the lead, Ipswich Wanderers made it 1-1 only for Hoddesdon to retake the lead, Hannah Kelly putting the ball into the back of the net. The visitors lead was short lived Ipswich Wanderers getting it back to 2-2 before going on to score 2 more to lead 4-2 at half-time. Scored twice more in the 2nd half to win the game 6-2 to see them join the sides in the middle of the table with games in hand on most. Jade Horne scoring a hat-trick in the match with captain Tarnya McKew also on target with a goal as well as Leanne Parker and Kristie Turner.

The game between Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies and Hertford Town Ladies was abandoned after just 22 minutes due to a serious injury. Women’s Football East wishes the player involved the very best for a speedy recovery.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 12/02/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 12th February

FAWPL Southern Division

Cardiff City Ladies took advantage of their rivals at the top of the FAWPL Southern Division being in action in the FA Women’s Cup last weekend to reach the summit of the league for the 1st time this season after a 5-0 home win against Portsmouth FC Ladies. Along with 2nd placed Tottenham Hotspur Ladies the Welsh side held an unbeaten record in the league. At home this Sunday they were taking on 3rd placed Charlton Athletic Women all very tight between the top 4 in the Southern Division a defeat for Charlton with 2 so far would put them 5 points behind Cardiff City as it was the visitors held the advantage at the break Kit Graham (pictured) with her 25th goal of the season scoring in the opening 15 minutes. Graham went on to score again in the final 15 minutes to seal the win and the 3 points for Charlton seeing them move a point above Cardiff into 2nd.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies remain unbeaten in the Southern Division and thanks to Cardiff City’s defeat to Charlton return to the top of the league with a home win against Lewes Ladies this Sunday. Wendy Martin giving Tottenham the lead with a little over 10 minutes left of the 1st half, the home side frustrated by Lewes in the 2nd half finally made the 3 points secure in the last 5 minutes with Martin putting the ball into the back of the net from a corner taking her goals tally to the season to 15. Top of the league again Tottenham are now unbeaten in 23 games this season with just one of those drawn.

2-0 was also the winning score for the other side in the FAWPL Southern Division’s top 4, Coventry United Ladies away to 2nd bottom Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. Both goals coming late in the 1st half, Ashleigh Neville putting Coventry ahead on 41 minutes with Alison Hall scoring to make it 2-0 a minute later. The lead held in the 2nd half the win takes Coventry up into 3rd place, Cardiff City starting Sunday top of the league drop to 4th in the table. Still all to play for in the title race however just 3 points separating the top 4.

At the other end of the FAWPL Southern Division table it could be a vital point for West Ham United Ladies on Sunday at home to Portsmouth FC Ladies however they were denied all 3 with a late equaliser after Molly Peters had given them the lead early in the 2nd half. 1-0 the advantage going into the last 5 minutes Portsmouth captain, Gemma Hillier with the shot to score in the 86th minute to see the points shared. The point for West Ham United moves them above Queens Park Rangers at the bottom of the table. The match between C&K Basildon Ladies and Crystal Palace Ladies was postponed.

FAWPL South East Division One

An equally tight battle for the title is emerging in FAWPL South East Division One, The top 4 sides all saw their matches postponed at the weekend with leaders Milton Keynes Dons Ladies due to travel to Norwich City Ladies, 2nd placed Cambridge United WFC were scheduled to play Ipswich Town Ladies with 3rd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies due to take on 4th placed Actonians Ladies.

That saw a great opportunity for 5th placed Gillingham FC Ladies to close the gap at the top still the only unbeaten side in the league with games in hand on all the sides above them were hosting 6th placed Luton Town Ladies at the weekend. Felicity Gibbons put Gillingham into the lead on 15 minutes, a 2nd goal quickly followed April Bowers putting the ball home to make it 2-0 on 18 minutes. Luton pulled a goal back with Joanne Rutherford scoring to make it 2-1 just before the half hour mark, Gibbons added her 2nd of the match putting the ball into the back of the net from the penalty spot. Gibbons then went on to complete a 1st half hat-trick scoring her 3rd late on to see Gillingham lead 4-1 at the break. Gillingham went on to dominate the 2nd half Gibbons with a 4th goal 5 minutes in. Charlotte Gurr into her 7th game since returning to the club scored a 12 minute hat-trick to take her tally to 18. Gibbons moving onto 25 for the season with her 5th of the game to see Gillingham lead 9-1 brought up a double figure win with Catherine Cooper netting the goal in the last 10 minutes. The huge win taking them into 4th level on points with Actonians Ladies.

Enfield Town Ladies were taking on local rivals Denham United Ladies at home on Sunday went into the match in 8th place in the FAWPL South East Division One table 2 points behind Denham in 7th. A goal in each half seeing Enfield Town win 2-0 to move above Denham in the table, Lisa Kline and Stavroulla Panayiotou with the goals.

News during the week for Lowestoft Town Ladies bottom of the FAWPL South East Division One as they announced the dismissal of manager Nathan Einecker with immediate effect for Professional Misconduct, the statement from the club can be read by clicking on the link below.

http://www.lowestofttownfc.co.uk/news/nathaniel-einecker-dismissed-for-professional-misc-1751596.html

Joint manager at the club, Ricky Graves taking on sole charge of the Ladies side as they headed to Hertfordshire this Sunday for a 6 pointer at the bottom of the table taking on Stevenage Ladies. With the bare 11 travelling Lowestoft dug in a single goal scored by captain Hannah Waters saw them clinch their 2nd league win of the season to get the 3 points move onto 6 level with Stevenage and off the bottom at the expense of Norwich City Ladies.

Match Report – Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday’s football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the Norfolk Women’s Division One with in form Bungay Town Ladies in 4th place in the league winning all of their matches in 2017 to date travelling to play Brandon Town Ladies on a bitterly cold day in on of the few games to beat the weather in the league.

Match Report – Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

After a trip to The Hive yesterday to see the opening match in the FAWSL 2’s new one off Spring Series competition between London Bees and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, stayed local for this Sunday’s women’s football action travelling over the border into Suffolk to watch the Norfolk Women’s Division One match between Brandon Town Ladies & Bungay Town Ladies.

With snow all around the country the ground already very wet it looked like ti was going to be another weekend full of postponements, even the FAWSL’s new Spring Series didn’t survive unscathed. Didn’t have a Plan A this weekend not committing to game too early having seen 3 called off already this year. Had a short list and Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies was on it 20 minutes away the snow that was on my lawn was thawing rapidly even if it was still bitterly cold, extra layers on hit the road.

Norfolk Women’s Division One is a very competitive league although this season so far it is being dominated by Thorpe United Ladies who have won all 9 of their league games so far and excellent run of form has seen Kings Lynn Town Ladies overhaul newly promoted North Walsham Angels Ladies who lay 3rd going into this weekends match due to play each other this Sunday at North Walsham the game was postponed, giving an opportunity to 4th placed Bungay Town Ladies to move above them.

Brandon Town Ladies go into today’s game in 6th place in the table well clear of the bottom 2 sides, have had a frustrating season so far in the league with 3 wins 1 draw and 4 losses postponements and having players unavailable for some games hasn’t helped them build any momentum. Have had a good run in the League Cup competition and will play today’s opponents, Bungay Town Ladies away in the semi-finals of the competition. Today is their 3rd meeting in the league with Brandon winning 4-3 at the start of the season at home, then losing away 4-0 back on the 15th January.

Bungay Town Ladies got off to a bad start in the league this season losing their opening 3 games. Recovered towards the end of 2016 winning twice in the league. Have had an excellent run in 2017 getting regular matches in winning 3 in a row in the league given a home win in the League Cup quarter finals. Spoke to manager Graham Purling during the summer at a pr-season friendly and he was optimistic about the squad the club had assembled this season.

Brandon Town Ladies play their home matches at the Brandon Leisure Centre, a multi-sports facility offering several full-sized football pitches. Despite the amount of rain and dusting of snow to hit the country over the past few days the pitch had held up well, looked muddy but had featured a game earlier in the day and despite being cut up it was surprisingly dry underfoot no standing water. A large pitch, it was a bitterly cold afternoon, gloomy with dark clouds all around.

Brandon Town Ladies starting XI – Shannon Odebrecht, Melanie Talbot, Cassandra Carvalheira, Shanice Burch, Laura Grove, Chloe Slater, Carolyn Sarafian, Ruby Robertson, Frankie Torrance (C), Brooke Wickens & Elicia Cooper.
subs – Hazel Shepherd, Lauren Riding & Emma Johnson.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Hannah Jones, Kelly Collins (C) Jessica Keeling, Charlotte Power, Inna Marx, Ella Hindley, Nicki Hazel, Lauren Purling, Laura Holden & Stephanie Cool.
subs – Rebecca Rylott.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Both sides had a newly registered signing in their squad for today’s game, Elicia Cooper starting in attack for Brandon Town Ladies. Rebecca Rylott, Bungay Town Ladies only available substitute. Bungay to kick-off the 1st half wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks, with Brandon lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The ball gets played long out to the right for Lauren Purling to chase early on winning a throw the ball is lifted up the line for striker Stef Cool getting into the box her ball forwards his cut out by Brandon’s Cassandra Carvalheira behind for a corner kick. Headed out of the area by Brandon they look to counter attack on the right players from both sides racing back towards the Bungay goal as the ball is played into the feet of Brooke Wickens coming in off the wing to get into he area is challenged by Bungay’s Charlotte Power winning the ball back for the visitors.

Bringing the ball forwards Bungay centre back Charlotte Power evades a Brandon tackle

The action is end to end in the early minutes both sides contesting the ball hard in midfield Wickens plays a great crossfield pass from right to left picking out captain Frankie Torrance on the wing drives forwards looking to get into the box, no way past Bungay right back, Hannah Jones who stands her ground times her tackle well. Both sides looking to exploit the wide players, Inna Marx sends the ball out to Nicki Hazel on the left pushing on crosses as reaches the top of the area the ball angling towards the near post caught by Brandon Town Ladies goalkeeper, Shannon Odebrecht.

GOAL! The opening goal of the match comes after just 6 minutes of play, Brandon pressing forwards in attack lose possession the ball is played direct through the middle both Cool and Laura Holden are in through on goal as Odebrecht comes racing out to the edge of the area with Cool closest the keepers clearance doesn’t go far striking Holden inside the D, gets a shot away, Odebrecht doing well to get a glove on the ball palms it into the ground isn’t under control Holden gets to it 1st to send the ball centrally into the back of the net 0-1 to Bungay.

Laura Holden scores the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies

Brandon attack from the restart getting a throw deep on the left played into Carvalheira her cross from 35 yards out is a good one coming in high Ruby Robertson gets up to head the ball can’t direct her effort on target as it bounces wide across the six yard box. Wickens in possession on the right plays the ball in field to Carolyn Sarafain the midfielder in front of the centre circle decides to have a pop at goal on target is straight at Bungay goalkeeper Ruth Smart who takes it cleanly into her body. Making progress with the ball on the right Brandon have a throw players drift across as the throw is taken is Elicia Cooper squares the ball in towards Torrance outside the area in front of the D, back to goal hits the half volley on the turn her strike bouncing wide past the far post.

Another good crossfield ball from Wickens on the right picks out Torrance on the left cuts inside rolling the ball in field to Sarafain outside the area shifts the ball before hooking a shot in towards goal, again her effort drops into the keepers gloves back on her line. Robertson gets back on Cool as she breaks for the Brandon area, tackling concedes the corner kick played in from the right by Hazel his headed clear of the area by Laura Grove coming back out to Hazel sweeps a cross into the box Jones gets her head to the ball 10 yards out sends her effort over the crossbar.

Brandon Town Ladies, Carolyn Sarafain

Picking the ball up from a throw on the right 30 yards out Ella Hindley turns inside carrying the ball towards the Brandon box, scoops the ball up off the turf sending a shoot in towards goal, isn’t too far over as it dips late over the bar. Hindley with a run through the centre of midfield lays the ball on for Purling on the move up the right wing, Shanice Burch comes across to tackle her gets a knock as she puts the ball out for the throw deep in the corner up okay after treatment. A few crunching challenges about the pitch Marx and Sarafain clatter into each other from to try and win a 50/50 ball (poor thing). Pressure on the ball from both sides, Bungay are a little more successful with the final ball isn’t coming off for Brandon. The visitors winning another corner on the right the ball is lifted into the centre of the goal Odebrecht calls and take well before being bundled over by the onrushing Bungay attacker to get a free-kick.

Bungay Town Ladies, Lauren Purling

A corner from Bungay on the left sees Brandon goalkeeper Odebrecht pull off a superb save the best I suspect I’ll see this year! Initially doesn’t do so went coming into the crowd at the near post to punch the ball away, instead knocks it down into the ground, players scramble for the ball is squeezed out to Hindley inside opposite the far post, I’m standing on half way behind goal as she shifts the ball with her 1st touch has an open goal to aim at hits the ball goalwards should be a certain goal, however out of no where Odebrecht appears throwing herself full stretch low across her goal-line to glove the ball away for the corner an excellent piece of goalkeeper, had it been Karen Bardsley the Vine loops would be in there thousands as it is you will just have to take my word for it!

A powerful run on the ball from Brandon’s Wickens through the middle moves to the right looking to make the angle for a shot, Bungay captain Kelly Collins gets back at her to slide in to tackle and win the ball back. The counter attacking football keeps coming Brandon’s Chloe Slater on the move up the pitch plays it on for Carvalheira ahead of her on the left has Sarafain keeping pace with her lays the ball off into the middle, into the midfielders stride she 30 yards out she goes for the 1st time shot her strike whistling over the bar.

Brandon Town Ladies, Brooke Wickens

Brandon make a change up top bringing off Cooper and sending on Hazel Shepherd as Bungay win a corner with Purling played in down the right the ball is played into the six yard box deep knocked out towards the edge of the area Jess Keeling up from the back gathers for the visitors stabs a shot in towards goal his held on the line by Odebrecht. Hazel with a good run up the right side for Bungay lays the ball into Hindley on the move towards the Brandon area gets a shot away as she is closed down by Burch bounces wide of goal.

Brandon have upped the tempo as the 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes but have yet to test Smart in the Bungay goal. A throw on the right side is played into Brandon’s Shepherd 25 yards out from goal driving forward looks to play in Torrance making a run from the left into the area, Jones throws out a long leg to intercept the ball. One last attack in the 1st half for Bungay Purling on the left forwards for Cool to chase hits the shot from outside the area runs all the way along the ground to be scooped up safely by Odebrecht inside her six yard box.

Half-time Brandon Town Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

An high paced and exciting 1st half of football, Bungay Town Ladies with the narrow advantage have created the better chances in front of goal. Is bitterly cold however and I can’ blame them for wanting to keep the ball moving. A shortened half-time interval as both sides stay by the side of the pitch. The visitors getting into some good attacking positions Purling and Hazel a threat out wide, Holden just 16 with some dynamic runs through the middle supporting Cool in attack. Brandon with some good build up play their final ball just not finding it’s mark. 45 minutes left to play.

A change for Bungay at the start of the 2nd half with Rylott coming on in place of Hazel going into a wide right position. Brandon get the 2nd half underway, Bungay get possession and attack down the right keeping the ball in the final 3rd before the ball is played inside to Cool outside the box slicing across the ball be strike races wide across the area out for the goal-kick. Sarafain gets forwards for Brandon the ball put into her feet by Wickens goes to strike the ball from outside the box a knick off a Bungay defender diverts the shot straight into Smart’s gloves. Both sides continue to press the ball keeping up the pace of the 1st half. Shepherd is played on down the right wing by Carvalheira her cross in to the area intercepted by Collins.

Lauren Purling & Carolyn Sarafain

Holden picking the ball up from deep goes on a run through the middle heading for the Brandon box is tracked all the way by Slater who slides in to take the ball play it back to her keeper. Torrance and Wickens link up on the left side the through ball from Torrance just a little too heavy for Wickens running into the box Smart coming off her line can get there 1st. Up the other end Odebrecht is quickly out of her area to kick the ball as Rylott plays Cool in behind the defence.

Brandon Town Ladies, Chloe Slater

Bungay break from a Brandon corner the ball played out to Purling on the left side Talbot gets across diving in to put the ball out for the throw. Purling takes a knock in the challenge but is up on her feet from the throw the ball is worked down the line by the visitors finally being played into Purling just inside the box on the left turning she is caught as a Brandon defender lunges in to try and win the ball, the referee stops play Purling clearly coming off the worse, after treatment can’t continue and is substituted Hazel returning to the pitch. Brandon also make a switch Cooper returning to the pitch in place of Shepherd.

Holden nips in to win the ball from the Brandon back line has Cool and Rylott either side of her as she heads towards the box tries to pick out Rylott to her right the pass a little too heavy Rylott keeps it in play before winning a throw level with the box, the ball is played down to Marx’s feet puts the pass inside for Holden who seeing the ball into her body turns and hits the ball on the volley her shot angling in at head height towards the ear post, Odebrecht has it covered takes the ball cleanly.

Brandon have a free-kick wide right outside the box after Hazel handles the ball, Slater over the set-piece sends the ball high into the area Hindley heads the ball clear for Bungay they counter attack the pass out towards Hazel on the left side travelling with the ball turns infield heading for the area pulling the trigger 25 yards out the shot straight at Odebrecht the keeper claiming the ball on her goal-line.

GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and Bungay double their lead pressuring the ball as Brandon try to play it out from the back Holden wins the tackle takes the ball on into the area before prodding it forwards for Cool right side of goal close range rolls the ball past the keeper and into the back of the net 0-2.

Shepherd returns to the action for Brandon winning a corner on the right side bring players forwards, Hindley defends for Bungay winning the near post header giving away 2 more corners before the visitors break from the 3rd the ball played long out to Cool on the left on halfway gives it to Holden who surges forwards moving left has Hazel with her their runs taking them across each other Holden leaves it for Hazel who strikes the shot from outside the box the ball flying narrowly over the crossbar.

Laura Holden looking to get past Chloe Slater

The sun finally makes an appearance late in the day breaking through the clouds, Bungay attack the ball played into Cool’s feet outside the area to the right has Hindley making a run towards the area lays the ball into her path Hindley striking the shot 1st time gets plenty of power behind the shot is straight at Odebrecht again and the keeper makes the save. Brandon bring the ball forwards through the middle Shepherds strike is deflected out for a throw level with the top of the area played into Sarafain’s feet the midfielder turns and looks to curl a shot in towards goal from inside the D, dips late but not enough to take it below the crossbar. Bungay get the ball up the other end Hindley steals the ball inside the box as it comes in from a throw-in works room for a shot left side the ball is held by Odebrecht as Cool looks to pounce on any follow-up.

Bungay Town Ladies, Ella Hindley

2 goals for Bungay Town Ladies
Stef Cool

GOAL! Bungay don’t let Brandon out of their final 3rd from the previous attack closing players down outside the box, it’s Holden who regains possession moving towards the top of the area left of the D rolls the ball into the area for Cool who on the opposite side to wear she scored her 1st goal does exactly the same placing the ball across the keeper from inside the six yard box to score her 2nd a see Bungay take a 0-3 lead with around 15 minutes left on the clock.

Marx gets hold of the ball for Bungay some 30 yards out from goal time to line up a shot, places her strike wide across the Brandon goal. Bungay are finishing the game strong Purling her knee bandaged up returns to the field in place of Rylott. Brandon keep going forwards when they have the ball getting to the top of the Bungay area the final ball just won’t fall to an attacker, Jones blocking a strike from outside the box by Shepherd. Torrance rifles a shot in from the wide left position, Smart coming across to cover her near post can see the ball wide into the side netting.

Wickens marked by 3 players wide right wins Brandon a throw the ball played into her wide of the box helps it inside to Slater looking to play it across the face of goal, the ball is too close to Smart, spilt however the corner is given away. The delivery from the corner drops into the crowded six yard box Smart can’t get hold of the ball dropping down a shot comes in too many bodies in front of goal the ball blocked spins out to the right the shot angled in towards goal Smart gets down sharply on her goal line to make the save.

A chance for Cool to claim her hat-trick late in the match as Holden picks up the ball and carries it forwards has Hazel with her, Holden rolls the ball to her, Hazel lays it on for Cool to her right squeezes the ball past the defence to get into the box, can only pick out the goalkeeper as she gets a shot away.

Full time – Brandon Town Ladies 0-3 Bungay Town Ladies

A 3-0 win for Bungay Town Ladies sees them keep their winning run in 2017 going and the 3 points moves them level on points and above North Walsham Angels Ladies into 3rd place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. Kept up a high tempo throughout the 90 minutes closing the ball down getting forwards always looking a threat creating the better chances in front of goal. A good contest that highlights just how competitive the league is.

SWF Blog – Player of the Match

With a 1st half goal and 2 assists in the 2nd half the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today is Laura Holden, the 16 year old playing just her 2nd game for Bungay not letting Brandon settle on the ball, getting the tackles in to win the ball and carry it forwards.

My thanks to both clubs for their assistance today.