Monthly Archives: August 2017

Match Report – Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

Wednesday 30th August

  My 1st midweek game of the season a trip down into Essex to watch a game another game from the ERWFL this time in the new Division One South and the opening fixture for both sides as Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies host Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies.

With 5 new sides joining the ERWFL this season Division One once again is split into 2 leagues a North and a South. The South containing 7 sides has only seen the one game played to date with newcomers Bishops Stortford Ladies leading the way with a 3-0 win away to Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. The V Festival and player unavailability delaying the start of the season.

 Two sides beginning their season tonight under the lights an 8pm kick-off. A new home for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this season playing at Bowers & Pitsea FC. Will be hoping for a better finish this time around having finished in 10th place in the single 11 strong Division One last season albeit on goal difference with 2 points separating the sides from 7th to 10th. Retain much of last seasons squad a young side. Charlotte Stephens joining after a spell studying abroad in America. Ebony Moore returning to the club after being with Hutton Ladies last season.

One of the few sides I haven’t seen play in the ERWFL to date, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies struggled last season finishing bottom of the table. Much change at the club then with their previous manager Reece Buck leaving to take on a coaching role at FAWPL side Stevenage Ladies taking a good number of experienced 1st team regulars with him. Meant new joint managers Matthew Norton and Fraser Wood fielding a lot of younger players a steep learning curve results didn’t come but by all accounts the side improved strongly as the season grew. Have new signings ahead of the season with both Kristina O’Connell and Leah Dunnage returning from Stevenage. Chloe Makepeace and Sian Owens making their debuts tonight.

Bowers & Pitsea FC, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies new home this season the non-league club investing in their pitch over the summer improving drainage and reseeding the grass it looks in great condition soft underfoot is a very large and wide pitch. A small covered seated stand on one side with covered standing behind one goal. Outside the pitch a large clubhouse and function room a wedding party in full swing. Car parking and plans in place to continue the improvements. A wet and miserable day the steady rain starting to die away remained dull and over cast however the pitch wasn’t affected at all. 

 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Atlanta Fuwa, Courtney Fraser, Elysia King, Taylor Parrish, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds (C) Sydney Killick, Eloise Ives, Natalie Strange, Ebony Moore & Georgia Fraser. Subs – Danielle Styles, Kerri Thomas, Rhianne Holmes & Sophie Dowman.

 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies starting XI – Shannon Daly, Katie Kendle, Leah Dunnage,  Charley Handley, Faye Holder, Chloe Makepeace, Robyn Jones, Kristina O’Connell, Charlotte Grogan, Sian Owens & Natasha Crick (C). Subs – Megan Davies, Stephanie Iaonnou, Summer Muir, Rachel Daltrey & Courtney Smart.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

    It’s Hoddesdon to get the game underway kicking off 1st half are wearing their regular colours red and navy vertical striped shirts, with navy shorts and socks. Little Thurrock wearing orange shirts with black across the chest and sleeves, black shorts and socks. Hoddesdon attack straight from the off Kristina O’Connell in the centre passing to fellow midfielder Robyn Jones she sends the ball forwards for captain and striker Natasha Crick to go after, a touch but closed down by Little Thurrock’s Taylor Adcock the ball is won outside the box. A rapid counter attack the ball with right back Elle King taking it forwards has her captain Abbie Simmonds making a determined run forwards into the box King rolls the ball into her path taking it to the byline she cuts the cross back across the six yard box racing across the face of goal no one coming in far post to turn home.

GOAL! 3 minutes on the clock and Little Thurrock take an early lead the tempo high at the start the full width of the pitch being exploited by both sides Little Thurrock pressing the ball Hoddesdon can’t get it away won back inside their half the home side’s attackers look to turn in behind the through ball picks out Georgia Fraser left side in the box strikes the ball in low and hard towards the near post beats goalkeeper Shannon Daly over the line for 1-0.

  End to end at the start both sides expanding alot of energy early on keen to get the competitve action started at last. Little Thurrock attacker Ebony Moore is presented with a shooting opportunity as Daly’s goalkick comes straight to her 30 yards out from goal pushing the ball forwards looks to open up her body curl her shot around the keeper from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of goal. Georgia Fraser getting possession of the ball 25 yards out left of goal carries it into the area in a similar position to where she scored has another go this time Daly going to ground is right behind the strike makes the save.

 Hoddesdon get players forwards pressuring the Little Thurrock midfield inside their half Chloe Makepeace wins the ball knocking it inside for Charlotte Grogan in space centrally 35 yards out lines up a shot lacks the pace to trouble Fuwa in the Little Thurrock goal. Little Thurrock are prepared to push more players on when they have the ball their defence coming to the half way line they keep Hoddesdon penned back enjoying more of the ball doubling up on the right Georgia Fraser on the ball in the corner sends a cross back towards the top of the area, Moore’s there good control back to goal lays it off for the advancing Sydney Killick she takes on the shot puts the ball over the crossbar. 

 Charley Handley moves out of centre back to deal with the threat posed by Natalie Strange on the right for Little Thurrock the defender sliding in to tackle preventing the attacker getting a run into the box. Little Thurrock keep up the pressure in the final 3rd winning a corner kick on the right. King to take the set piece a good delivery long towards the far post Georgia Fraser up to head the ball knocking it down bounces wide.

 Hoddesdon come forwards Jones knocking the ball on for Sian Owens attacking on the left wing making ground has support from Crick outside the box 25 yards out receives the pass plays in on for O’Connell who in turn plays it back to Grogan, twisting and turning the no 10 comes on before rolling the ball into Owens moving into position outside the D, she strikes the ball goalwards, Fuwa is behind it all the way claims comfortably.

  Handley reacts quickly getting across to tackle Strange once again on the right as Georgia Fraser skillfully flicks on King’s 25 yard pass. Coming on again down the right a Little Thurrock win a free-kick outside the Hoddesdon box, players come forwards from the back as King sets the ball. The delivery towards the far post falls to the ground, Adcock is there for Little Thurrock 8 yards out latches onto the ball puts it wide across the goal. Up front on her own Crick is constantly looking to peel off the last defender get in behind whenever Hoddesdon mount an attack, does so as O’Connell threads the pass along the ground into her path moving right into the area pulls the trigger puts her shot straight into the keepers gloves.

A change for Little Thurrock with Danielle Styles entering the game midway through the 1st half. Little Thurrock are having more of the attack win a corner right another well delivered ball from King drops into the six yard box central Georgia Fraser lunges out to connect with the ball scoops it up over the crossbar. A change for Hoddesdon with Stephanie Iaonnou coming on for Jones. Iaonnou links up with Owens on the left side as Hoddesdon attack the pass inside for Makepeace she tries to feed Crick the ball as the striker enters the box from the right she is quickly closed down and crowded off the ball by 3 Little Thurrock defenders.

GOAL! Little Thurrock have had the better chances 1st half but with 40 minutes played Hoddesdon get themselves back on level terms. O’Connell with a great run on the ball driving through the centre plays it on for Crick making a run left to get into the box in behind, can she reach the ball before the keeper, Fuwa goes to ground, Crick gets a toe on the ball knocks it past her goes after it the angle going away from her gets the shot in with defenders rushing back the ball turned towards goal finds its way into the back of the net to make it 1-1. 

The game restarts with Styles and Strange switching sides, Styles right now plays the ball on for Moore through the middle a race for the ball with Handley the central defender sticking out a leg to take the ball away from the Little Thurrock attacker. Daly with a good claim under pressure from Moore minutes later as Styles whips a high diagonal ball into the area.

GOAL! A goal out of nothing sees Little Thurrock restore their lead in the closing minute of the 1st half the ball is kicked out of the box by Daly into midfield won by Little Thurrock the pass picking out Styles on the right in space a long way out but aware the goalkeeper is out of position strikes the ball high towards goal on target backpedalling Daly can’t reach it as it flies over her and bounces into the goal 2-1.

Styles causing Hoddesdon a few problems since coming on. On the left side Strange puts the cross into the box Iaonnou inside the six yard box blocks a shot the ball rebounding out towards Abbie Simmonds 25 yards out central the Little Thurrock captain goes for goal the ball fired back in over the bar. Into stoppage time in the 1st half Little Thurrock are finishing strongly Simmonds bringing the ball on puts it into Styles ahead of her King seeing space to run into goes beyond her receiving the pass fires a cross into the area players from both sides attack the ball Handley winning it initially isn’t clear on the floor Little Thurrock’s Moore gets a shot away, Daly making the save at pointblank range the ball going away for a corner kick. Dealt with. 

Half-time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 2-1 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

  A narrow lead for Little Thurrock at the break taking an early lead and creating further chances to extend their lead Hoddesdon have defended stoutly their defence kept busy. Both sides enjoying the space the pitch offers have put alot into the 1st half may tell 2nd half as legs tire. Hoddesdon with fewer chances and these shots from outside the box. Crick offering a threat up top with O’Connell making some useful runs in the middle getting it back to 1-1 only to concede soon after. 

With roll on roll off substitutes in play and the dugouts being on the opposite side of the pitch to where I’m watching a good distance hard to keep track of all the comings and goings. 2 changes for Little Thurrock as they kick-off the 2nd half Moore and Killick are off with Kerri Thomas and Sophie Dowman on. Hoddesdon win possession Grogan playing the ball long for Crick the ball bouncing over Parrish, Fuwa is quickly out to jump and claim the ball before the striker can capitalise. Both sides counter attack, Hoddesdon with Crick after the ball Parrish clears, then up the other end Handley dives in to make a challenge gets hurt and the trainer is immediately called for. A lengthy pause in play however Handley somewhat gingerly is back to her feet and going off the field is soon allowed back on.

   Courtney Fraser is called into action at the back for Little Thurrock as Hoddesdon’s O’Connell makes a run with the ball centrally plays the pass on into the box with Grogan the furthest forwards the full back coming across on the cover to put the challenge in win the ball. 

GOAL! Little Thurrock like they did in the 1st half score early to open up a 2 goal cushion. Georgia Fraser on the ball left side into the Hoddesdon half moves infield rolls it a across for Thomas, Styles is on the move right side looking for the ball to be passed into her run inside the area Thomas obliges Styles takes it on right of goal a tight angle drills a shot in near post Daly drops to make the save the ball squirms away from her and into the back of the net beyond 3-1. 

Hoddesdon win their 1st corner of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd half the delivery inviting just over the head of Handley jumping in the centre of the six yard box. Simmonds heads the ball out towards the top of the area a shot is taken the ball sent wide of goal. Katie Kendle gets across to tackle Dowman as Georgia Fraser looks to send her clear on the left wing. Fraser comes off then with Eloise Ives rejoining the action. The energy levels remain high space is opening up here and their Hoddesdon break up a Little Thurrock attack Holder on for Kendle bringing it on right has Grogan ahead of her she turns with the ball and releases O’Connell grass in front of her tries an ambitious cross towards the far post with Crick trying to get on the end of it throws herself at the dropping ball but doesn’t connect. 

Megan Davies is on for Hoddesdon in at left back Dunnage more central. Simmonds is off for Little Thurrock, Killick back on. The ball is moving up and down the pitch Adcock clears as Crick looks to chase a ball played through from Grogan. Dowman through the middle for Little Thurrock looks to attack the box looking to plough her way through Dunnage and Handley converge to close the door in front of her. Dowman isn’t put off though and with the ball at her feet again right of the D lets fly from 20 yards coming in fast and skipping off the surface Daly makes a great save knocking the ball up and over the ball as she falls forwards. 

  Handley clears the corner from the right at the near post. Summer Muir is sent into the game for Hoddesdon replacing Grogan moving into a central striking position Crick moving left. Kendle too is taken off with Rachel Daltrey taking up the right back position. Styles on the run with the ball for Little Thurrock right side sends the pass on for Dowman inside the box she turns and shoots Daly saving with the block a close range neither aware the offside flag was up against Dowman. Georgia Fraser comes back on for Little Thurrock. 

Daltrey clears the ball off the goal line for Hoddesdon as a cross is whipped in from the right, Daly can only get her fingertips to the ball not enough to stop it flying goalwards the defender back on the cover. Play is stretched late on Jones returns to the field in place of Iaonnou for Hoddesdon. 

GOAL! Little Thurrock strengthen their grip on their 1st 3 point haul of the season as they score a 4th goal. The build up right side a high ball in towards the near side of goal Daly parries the ball away the clearance played out falls straight to Georgia Fraser time to pick her spot takes on the shot sending the ball high into the far top corner of the net Daly unable to get back across her goal in time 4-1. 

Changes thick and fast now for Little Thurrock Rhianne Holmes introduced with Moore also back on. Holmes at right back for Little Thurrock clearing an O’Connell cross flashed across the face of goal as Muir rolls her in inside the box. Not long left now Muir has given Hoddesdon’s attack a little more impetus late on Crick and O’Connell pushed on Little Thurrock with a 3 goal cushion dropping off a little.

GOAL! Possession with Hoddesdon outside the Little Thurrock area on the left side Muir linking up with Crick 30 yards out takes on the shot is a great strike flying across Fuwa’s six yard box the keeper turning to see the ball land in the back of the net as Crick becomes the 3rd player of the night to complete a brace 4-2. 

One final attack with Little Thurrock and they almost steal in to score a 5th goal the ball sent long up into the area the bounce deceiving the keeper skipping up over her looks to be going on to creep inside the far post Dowman after it, so too is the Hoddesdon defence the ball hooked off the goal line once again. 

Full time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 4-2 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

   Little Thurrock win the game 4-2 to begin their season with a win the 3 points putting them straight into 2nd behind Bishops Stortford on goal difference. A winning start at their new home played well for the win an early goal setting them on their way. Creating chances have plenty of attack minded players. Hoddesdon getting back into the game only to concede again. The visitors with fewer chances did well but were always on the back foot after conceding early goals in both halves 4-2 a fair reflection of the game and despite the the loss Hoddesdon should be encouraged by the performance, both the North & South Division One’s in the ERWFL will be competitve this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Little Thurrock Dynamos, Georgia Fraser. Good movement on and off the ball, timing her runs into the box and always available for the ball with two well taken goals.

A two hour trip home hence a later than normal match report but good to be on the road again. An enjoyable game under the floodlights tonight. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups.

 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 27/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 27th August

 Into the 2nd weekend of the ERWFL season, August Bank Holiday weekend too. Hot and sunny for a change. All the sides in the Premier Division and Division One North are finally up and running whilst in Division One South 2 sides finally play.

ERWFL Premier Division

 Billericay Town Ladies continue to lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division making it 2 wins from 2 with another big win away from home this weekend taking on Lowestoft Town Ladies at Crown Meadow. Billericay more often than not up at the top of the Premier Division table with the title contenders building on their impressive 12-1 win over newly promoted Colney Heath Ladies last Sunday were too strong for a Lowestoft Town side in a rebuilding process after suffering relegation from the FAWPL last season. 2 goals for Lauren Knight, along with a goal each for Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Hope Strauss and captain Lindsey Morgan seeing the Essex side win 6-1. Hannah Waters, captain of Lowestoft Town Ladies getting their goal. 

 Bedford Ladies maintain their 100% winning start to the season as they edged the win away from home against Royston Town Ladies on Sunday to keep them 2nd in the Premier Division table after their opening day win at home to Lowestoft Town Ladies. A brace from Natasha Fensome along with a goal for Maya Sidhu seeing Bedford claim all 3 points winning 3-2. A 2nd straight defeat for Royston Town Ladies who have made some interesting signings over the close season amongst them Becky Shephard from Hertford Town Ladies who scored both the goals for Royston on her debut this Sunday.

  Acle United Ladies are 3rd also with 2 wins from 2 to start the season began with a 5-1 win away to AFC Dunstable Ladies last Sunday. Were at home this Sunday taking on another side that had scored 5 goals in their opening game of the season Suffolk’s AFC Sudbury Ladies. Is this weekends featured game on the website and the match report can be found a couple of posts down. Playing at the FDC Flegg and all weather 3G pitch home to their training ground too Acle United started the match strongly creating chances before taking the lead just before the quarter hour marking Lauren Bullard on hand to turn Megan Todd’s cross in at the far post. Sudbury responded quickly Sophie Jeffery causing havoc up the left wing sending a cross in for Stacey Teager to send into the back of the opposition goal. Acle United were finding room in behind the Sudbury defence and pressing the ball in midfield defender Anna Larkins broke clear down the right sending in towards goal a great ball dipping over the goalkeeper into the far top corner to make it 2-1. Acle United captain Rebecca Burton sending Todd through clear on goal getting the rebound of the goalkeeper favourably to take the ball past her and put into the empty net to make it 3-1 the lead at half-time. 

New signing Ciera Flatt with the ball for Acle United Ladies

 Sudbury regrouped after the break started the 2nd half well however it was Acle United who would further extend their lead breaking and this time Burton was on hand to turn the ball home inside the box a defensive clearance going straight to her. Sudbury responded quickly again to pull it back to 4-2, Mia Etheridge putting the ball into the back of the net from a corner kick. An extended 2nd half period due to injury midfielder Broghan Scully played in by Todd scored to seal a 5-2 win for Acle United.

 Cambridge City Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division as Division One Champions, in their 1st season playing at regional level had to wait a weekend before getting their campaign underway and got it off to a winning start taking them straight up into 4th position. Giving debuts to 4 players from their U16s last season, Cambridge City were on the road in Essex taking on Colchester Town Ladies. Bella Simmons was Cambridge City’s top scorer last season with 25 goals. Started her Premier Division season by scoring 4 goals helping Cambridge City to a 7-0 away win. Stacey Fullicks, Sarah Mosley and Megan Tonks also opening their goal accounts on the way to the 3 points.

The match between AFC Dunstable Ladies who had lost their opening game and Writtle Ladies who were starting their season featured 10 goals! The points however were shared as they both rattled in 5 goals a piece! Danielle Carty, Rianne Townsend-Brown and Beth Stanton all getting a goal each along with a brace for Charlotte Smith for the Bedfordshire side. There was a brace too for Essex’s Writtle with Sophie Vale grabbing two goals. Abigail Fry, Ellie Bowbidge and Lynsey Bowman signing from Silver End United Ladies all getting a goal in their opening match.

The points were shared too between Colney Heath Ladies and Brentwood Town Ladies. The newly promoted Hertfordshire side, Colney Heath still down to the bare bones with just the 11 available. Brentwood Town Ladies building with a new Reserve side this season were starting their season and held the advantage at half time away from home leading 1-0 doubled the lead in the 2nd half but frustratingly left with only a point. Leading 2-0 with 85 minutes played through goals for Drew Allen and Holly Griffin. Colney Heath battled back to win their 1st point of the season Nicola Hollick scoring both their goals. A needed boost after their heavy opening game defeat.

ERWFL Division One North

In ERWFL Division One North both Ipswich Wanderers Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies had started the season with a win. Wymondham top rattling in 9 goals at home on the opening day. Were away to Ipswich Wanderers this Sunday. Both sides had to settle for a point however with neither finding a winning goal in the 2nd half. The 1st half saw Wymondham take the lead in the 13th minute with Mollie O’Callaghan on target. Ipswich Wanders drew level 9 minutes later with Wymondham retaking the lead a minute later through Laura Wiseman. 12 minutes the lead lasted this time before Ipswich Wanderers pulled it back to 2-2 captain Tanya McKew and Jade Horne with their goals both remain 1st and 2nd in the league.

  With 7 sides contesting the league it was King’s Lynn Town Ladies who sat out the opening weekend. Started this Bank Holiday Sunday at home to Essex side Silver End United Ladies who had begun with a 3-1 loss to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies last weekend. King’s Lynn eager to test themselves at a higher level got off to a great start winning the match 3-1 to go 4th. Josie Turner and captain Shelley Woods both scoring along with Elle Bocking on hand in the box to head home their 3rd goal. Roxanne Gardner scoring for Silver End.

Also joining the ERWFL Division One North with King’s Lynn Town Ladies this season were Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Champions, Ipswich Town Ladies Development and Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Both started the season with a loss and a result they will want to forget. Ipswich Development were hosting Cambridge United this weekend. A much improved performance from both and a very close game that could have gone either way in the end the game was won by a single goal, Kevin Hoover’s Cambridge side winning 1-0 Kirsty Geal scoring the goal. 

ERWFL Division One South

 Finally we have a game to bring you from ERWFL Division One South and it couldn’t have been a better start to live in the regional league for newly promoted Bishops Stortford Ladies as the Beds & Herts Champions won 3-0 away from home against Hertford Town Ladies. Last seasons top scorer Kathryn Stanley getting two goals along with a goal for Brogan McHale to put them top of the table albeit with just the one game played between the 7 sides nevertheless they all count when you’re top of the league.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 27/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 27th August

August Bank Holiday Sunday saw the FAWPL enter its 2nd round of matches with a full programme in the Southern and South East Division One with 3 sides in both leagues keeping up a 100% winning start.

FAWPL Southern Division

Crystal Palace Ladies started with a huge 9-0 home victory over QPR to see them top of the table in the Southern Division after the opening weekend. Were on the road this Sunday playing newly promoted South West Division One Champions, Chichester City Ladies. Ciara Sherwood opened the scoring for the visitors in the 12th minute, Nikita Whinnett doubled the lead 6 minutes later. Chichester pulled a goal back before half-time through Charley Wilson-Blakely making it 2-1 at the interval. Sherwood only just back with the team after being away on International duty with Northern Ireland scored her 2nd of the game early in the 2nd half to restore Crystal Palace’s 2 goal advantage. Gemma Bryan adding a 4th goal with a little over 10 minutes left. Chichester grabbed a 2nd goal late in the game Gemma Simmonds the scorers to pull it back to 4-2. 2 wins from 2 a great start to the season for Crystal Palace who maintain top position.

 Charlton Athletic Women are 2nd after a narrow 2-1 win away to Gillingham FC Ladies at the Priestfield Stadium on Sunday. Taking on their local rivals Charlton took the lead on the half hour mark Charlotte Lee netting the goal. 1-0 the advantage at half-time Gillingham responded 2nd half Kallie Balfour scoring to make the scores level after 49 minutes. Charlton with a number of new faces in their line-up got themselves back into the lead midway through the 2nd half Charley Clifford scoring what would prove to be the winning goal and see Charlton keep up their 100% start.

Also keeping up their 100% winning start are Portsmouth FC Ladies picking up an impressive win away to one of the title favourites Coventry United Ladies. Both having started the season with convincing wins it was Portsmouth who stated the game on the front foot Samantha Quayle giving them the lead in the 10th minute. Portsmouth were 2-0 up just 3 minutes later new signing Rachel Panting scoring. Coventry pulled it back to 2-1 just past the half hour mark Stephanie Smith with the goal. 2-1 the advantage to Portsmouth going into the 2nd half both sides had further chances but no more goals were scored Portsmouth claiming the 3 points their 1st on the road since October.

A 7 goal thriller at the West Ham Training Ground with West Ham United Ladies coming out on top at home to Cardiff City Ladies who begin the campaign with 2 straight losses. The advantage 2-1 to West Ham at half-time thanks to goals from Paige Anderson-Smith and Amber Stobbs. Both sides scoring twice more in a thrilling 2nd half, Molly Peters and Anderson-Smith with her 2nd of the game enough to secure West Ham’s 1st 3 points of the campaign winning 4-3. A goal for Chloe O’Connor along with a brace for Cori Williams for Cardiff City’s goals.

Queens Park Rangers, Elly Maggs

Lewes FC Women came back from a goal down to secure a point at home to Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies at The Dripping Pan on Sunday. After playing a goalless 1st half it was the visitors who would take the lead Angela Addison sending the ball into the back of the net inside the opening 5 minutes of the 2nd half. The lead however lasted a little over 10 minutes as new signing Amy Taylor put Lewes back on level terms capitalising as Basildon failed to clear the ball from their box striking the ball sweetly on the half volley across the keeper into the back of the net. Lewes had a shout for a penalty that wasn’t given as the sides shared the points.

 

 It is probably too early in the season to say a game is a 6 pointer however having both been involved in the relegation battle that ultimately wasn’t last season QPR Ladies and Swindon Town Ladies both started their season with a heavy defeat. Playing each other this Sunday QPR at home in Uxbridge to Swindon Town Ladies got their 1st 3 points on the board with a 2-0 win. Captain Elly Maggs netting both goals her 1st just before half-time the 2nd midway through the 2nd half to see the points secured moving QPR up into 8th position.

FAWPL South East Division One

Only two games into the FAWPL season and in South East Division One, Actonians Ladies have a massive +17 goal difference. Beginning their 3rd season at this level progressed rapidly after starting well then slumping into trouble in their 1st season to a confident top half performance last season have started this campaign with 2 wins from 2. Both games at home against the newly promoted sides, thumping Haringey Borough Women 13-0 on the opening day were taking on Leyton Orient WFC this Sunday who had started the season with a solid performance to earn a point away to Cambridge United WFC in their opening fixture. 

Brimming with confidence from their opening day win Actonians got themselves into a 3-0 half-time lead. Adding 2 more goals 2nd half, Alessandra Barreca adding 2 more goals to the 5 she scored on the opening day, goals too for Sinthujah Sooriyakumar (I always cheer when I get the spelling right and no red line flags up underneath her name!) Jessica Byrne and substitute Katrina Duncan the final score 5-1. Egle Trezzi scoring the goal for Leyton Orient in the 2nd half.

Luton Town Ladies are 2nd in the table maintaining their 100% winning start away from home playing Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday. Found themselves 1-0 down at Donkey Lane early on as Nuala McKevitt scored to put Enfield in front, came back to lead 2-1 at half-time with Dionne Manning and Joanna Rutherford both scoring, no more goals 2nd half as Luton went on to claim the 3 points.

Also keeping up their 100% winning start to the season are Ipswich Town Ladies coming out on top of a close contest at home to Stevenage Ladies with Lindsey Cooper scoring the only goal of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd half to win the 3 points for the Suffolk side after their 3-1 win away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the opening weekend.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies recovered from that opening day defeat to win their 1st 3 points of the season at home at the weekend playing rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who were held to a draw on the opening day against Denham United Ladies. Caroline Bisson scoring for Wimbledon in the 6th minute Rebecca Sargent scoring a 2nd goal on 17 minutes the lead was 3-1 to AFC Wimbledon at half-time with Kelly-Jade Whelan adding a 3rd goal with 3 minutes left on the clock. Milton Keynes scored another but the 3 points were secured with Whelan adding her 2nd and Wimbledon’s 4th with 10 minutes left to play. Charly Wright and Charly Clarke scoring for Milton Keynes. The two sides meet again this weekend drawn together in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup.

Building on their opening day draw at home to Leyton Orient WFC, Cambridge United WFC picked up the 3 points away from home to Denham United Ladies at the weekend. New signing striker Emma Whitter scoring her 1st competitive goal for her new club in the 17th minute to put Cambridge in front. Denham came back into it drawing level shortly afterwards Jenny Banfield making it 1-1. Cambridge were soon back in front with Nuala Wayne netting on 23 minutes to see Cambridge leading 2-1 at the break. 15 minutes into the 2nd half Wayne was on target again with her 2nd to give Cambridge a 3-1 lead and take all 3 point lift them up into 4th position.

 A 1st half hat-trick from Chelsea Garrett saw Norwich City well on the way to their 1st 3 points of the season at home at Plantation Park in their 2nd game of the campaign at home to newly promoted Haringey Borough Women. Scoring in the 7th, 25th and 35th minute Garrett putting Norwich in control aided by Aimee Durrant the winger scoring a brace her 1st to make it 2-0 on the 23rd minute added a her 2nd in 1st half injury time to make it 5-0. Charlotte Broad scored early in the 2nd half with Natasha Snelling coming off the bench in the 54th minute making it 7-0 3 minutes later. 7-0 the final score Norwich have already scored more than half the goals they did in the whole of the last campaign as they climb up to 5th place.

Next weekend the action turns to the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup.

 

 

Match Report – Acle United Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

Sunday 27th August

  A hot and sunny August Bank Holiday weekend, headed east along the A47 to watch a game from the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday afternoon into its 2nd weekend a game between two sides that had opened their season scoring 5 goals apiece to claim the 3 points Acle United Ladies at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies.

12 sides contesting the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) Premier Division this season, Cambridge City Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies promoted from Division One.

  Acle United Ladies came within ONE win of winning the ERWFL Premier Division title last season and clinching promotion to the FAWPL took it to the final game of the season with a strong winning run late on to set up a winner takes all game away to Haringey Borough Women. Lost in the end Haringey Borough celebrating becoming champions going on to complete a double with the League Cup. So close Acle United begin the new season with a determination to go one better and win the Premier Division this season start as favourites although there will be a few challengers in the league.

   Have made several new signings over the close season bringing in Erin Wilson from Norwich City Ladies along with Ceira Flatt from Lowestoft Town Ladies. Kirstie Kindred and Olivia Mungham-Gray both join from Norfolk Division One Champions, Thorpe United Ladies. A new goalkeeper too with Cyan Fullbrook joining from North Walsham Angels Ladies. Started the season with an away trip to AFC Dunstable who pushed the top three hard last season winning the game 5-1. 

  AFC Sudbury have established themselves in the ERWFL Premier Division, the Suffolk side having a solid campaign last season constantly in the top half pushing the top sides well before clinching 5th spot. An experienced squad have retained most of last season’s players bringing in a couple of new faces, defender Laura Wheeler from Brentwood and Semma Halil who was with Silver End United Ladies.

A new home ground for Acle United Ladies this season playing at the FDC (Football Development Centre) Flegg situated at Flegg High School on the outskirts of the village of Martham. Has been and still is Acle United Ladies training ground and they played a couple of cup matches there last season. An all weather 3G pay and play facility means Acle United Ladies can play home fixtures in August and regularly throughout the season with less chance of postponements. Hot and cold drinks are available not so much room for spectators is a small pitch with coloured markings denoting various sized pitches. A beautiful day hot and sunny best enjoy them whilst they last.

Acle United Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Anna Larkins, Erin Wilson, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Broghan Scully, Amber Rowland, Ciera Flatt, Lauren Bullard, Rebecca Burton (C) & Megan Todd. Subs – Joanne Hooper & Kirstie Kindred.

AFC Sudbury starting XI – Penny Everett, Holly Harrison, Rebekah Henderson, Marie Seabrook (C), Rebecca Chandler, Charley Roach, Megan Partridge, Sophie Jeffery, Semma Halil, Mia Etheridge & Stacey Teager. Subs – Laura Wheeler, Georgia Lindon, Phoebe Scott, Natalie Golding & Harriett Young.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

 It’s Acle to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and black and white hooped socks with Sudbury lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue across the left side of the upper chest, Blue shorts with a yellow band round the left leg and yellow socks. Acle look to put the ball long to Megan Todd moving down the right wing, Sudbury defender Rebekah Henderson wins the ball then once again as she clears and Acle regain the ball. 

A small pitch the midfield is congested and early on is shaping up to be a competitive battleground players on both sides quick to close the ball down Sudbury win it play the diagonal ball out to Semma Halil on the right running clear is tackled bringing 1st a throw then a corner kick. The ball goes long across the six yard box cleared Acle try to launch a counter attack the ball long for Lauren Bullard left side into the area is muscled off the ball by Rebecca Chandler. Todd is a player who likes to get forwards covers the ground quickly and will drift inside as much as stick to the wing, looks to get onto the end of a central ball flighted up towards the area into the D, Sudbury captain Marie Seabrook stands her ground coming together with Todd both grounded appeals for the foul the referee waves play on.

AFC Sudbury Ladies captain, Marie Seabrook

Acle come again Erin Wilson on for Bullard on the left side getting ahead of play cuts the ball back inside the area with Ciera Flatt arriving leans into the shot sending it goalwards Sudbury goalkeeper Penny Everett dives to her right, the ball skims wide off the outside of the post. A busy start to the game injuries for both sides requiring on pitch treatment giving everyone a chance to catch their breath.

   Play resumes Sudbury look to attack down the left Sophie Jeffery is quickly closed down by Acle’s Anna Larkins, support from midfielder Amber Rowland the ball sent on for Todd on the right plays a long diagonal pass for Bullard trying to get into the area on the left, manages to win the home side a corner kick.An in swinging corner the ball lands in the six yard box a scramble ensues as Todd tries to latch onto it Sudbury get the ball out of the area falls straight to Acle centre back Chloe Shields takes on the shot from 25 yards out getting it on target puts the ball straight into Everett’s gloves. 

GOAL! A little over 15 minutes on the clock Acle have started brightly and take the lead coming forwards Todd gets in behind on the right as the ball is played through to her taking it to the byline inside the area cuts the cross back across the face of goal with pace, Everett throws herself forwards in an attempt to stop it evades her and finds Bullard timing her arrival perfectly at the far post to connect with the ball and send it into the back of the net 1-0.

Acle United’s, Lauren Bullard

 Todd puts the ball in the back of the net in the very next attack however it doesn’t count as it’s the wrong goal as she is slid through on goal by a beautifully weighted pass from Acle captain Rebecca Burton right side into the box Todd pulls her strike sending it wide of the near post and into one of the five a side goals stored behind the goal.

GOAL! Sudbury respond well to going a goal down pushing forwards draw level as Halil wins the ball right side drives on before crossing along the top of the area for Mia Etheridge central spots Jeffery on the move up the left wing sends the ball on the winger takes the ball on challenged the ball pops in behind favourably for her to go on sends the cross into the six yard box missed by Acle at the ear post Stacey Teager is clear beyond to raise her boot and turn the ball home to equalise 1-1.

Stacey Teager with the ball for AFC Sudbury Ladies

Some crunching challenges out there going to be a few bruises in the morning but these two sides have met regularly over the past few seasons know what to expect from each other and are getting on with it. Megan Partridge is down for Sudbury needing treatment a drinks break is called very hot out there. Partridge is okay play resumes with 25 minutes played. Breaking up a Sudbury attack play is turned around quickly Todd running through the middle after the all has half a yard on Chandler gets a shot away from the top of the area dips late on Everett but flies narrowly over the crossbar.

A free kick wide right over halfway to Acle players go up as Larkins sends it long to the far post Bullard up headers it down into the centre Burton and Seabrook challenging for the ball end up on the ground the striker getting a shot away sends the ball wide. Wilson wins the ball at left back for Acle on for Bullard left side plays the pass inside to Broghan Scully has Rowland to her right puts the ball into her moving forwards Rowland’s strike from 25 yards is blocked by Chandler. Acle regain possession out on the right with Todd the ball is sent high into the area, Everett claiming well on the bounce as the ball is attacked.

GOAL! Acle double their lead as the game moves past the half hour with Jeffery looking a threat on the left side for Sudbury, Acle move in quickly to get players around her before she can break squeezed off the ball on half way by Todd, Larkins is already on the move down the wing the right back receiving the ball is a good way out around 35 yards as she whips the ball into the air sending it towards high looping towards the top corner far post has Everett backpedalling can’t get to it as it flies over her into the goal beyond 2-1.

Anna Larkins restores the lead for Acle United Ladies

  Tough tackling from Partridge after the restart sends the ball on for Etheridge central closing in on the top of the area can’t connect with the shot. Jeffery taking players on on the left wing is getting plenty of Acle attention getting a cross away the ball is claimed by Fullbrook. 

  GOAL! Acle get up the other end with 5 minutes left of the 1st half and score a 3rd goal another great through ball from Burton with Sudbury high up the pitch Todd central is after it Everett comes rushing out of her goal sliding in looks to block Todd as she shapes to shoot does so but an unfortunate rebound off the attacker takes the ball beyond Everett, Todd stays on it and puts the ball into the empty goal beyond 3-1. 

Acle United’s, Megan Todd

Rowland goes down with n injury is substituted with Acle sending on Kirstie Kindred. A fantastic turn from Halil attacking left side Sudbury as the ball is rolling into her by Roach in behind gets past Pasque clear heads for the area, Shields gets across lunging in to win the ball take it away from Halil for the throw in. Sudbury push late on in the half Teager battling in the middle 30 yards out gets the ball through for Etheridge for a moment clear on goal Larkins does well to get across and put the challenge in. 

Half-time Acle United Ladies 3-1 AFC Sudbury Ladies

  An entertaining 1st half no shortage of action a few injuries disrupting play but despite the heat the players on both sides putting plenty into the game. Acle have been on top getting in behind the Sudbury defence have had the better chances. The visitors when they can get the ball wide themselves trying to create an opening. Acle with the 2 goal cushion going into the 2nd half.

A change for Sudbury at the start of the 2nd half Laura Wheeler on for Halil, the defender going in at centreback alongside Chandler, Seabrook moving forwards to bolster the midfield. The visitors the kick off the 2nd half. Straight away Sudbury are looking to get the ball have Acle pinned back in their half without making any in roads into their box. From a counter the ball is laid on for Todd right shapes to shoot early reaching the top of the area sends the strike wide. 

Charley Roach on the attack for AFC Sudbury Ladies

Roach and Partridge with support from Seabrook are winning the ball for Sudbury looking to carry it forwards Acle a little sluggish at the start of the 2nd half start to gather Flatt moving well finding pockets of space wanting the short pass into her. Todd peeling away right gets clear as the ball finds her running on squares the cross along the top of the area a vital interception from Chandler with Burton ready to throw herself at the ball beyond. 

GOAL! Despite a good start to the 2nd half from Sudbury it’s Acle who score the next goal to further extend their lead. Have possession on the right the ball carried forwards by Kindred the cross is fired in with pace into the six yard box Harrison attempts to send it clear covering the far post the ball falls straight to Burton central the striker turning the ball from the top of the six yard box into the back of the net 4-1.

Acle United Ladies captain, Rebecca Burton

Todd sets up a chance for Burton moment after the restart as the ball is won back in the middle on for Todd drives at the Sudbury area before laying it on to Burton peeling away to the right inside the area pulls the trigger sends her shot up over the bar. Rowland returns to the action replacing Scully in midfield. Larkins is over a free kick inside left a long way from goal nevertheless takes on the shot puts it wide of Everett’s goal.

GOAL! Sudbury pull a goal back 4 minutes after going 4-1 down. Winning a corner kick on the right is a fantastic delivery high angling in towards the far post two Acle defenders jump or it can’t reach it falls to Etheridge beyond adjusts well the get a foot on the ball leaning back and send it high into the net to make it 4-2.

Mia Etheridge pulls a goal back for AFC Sudbury Ladies

Sudbury come very close to making it 4-3 as the game restarts winning the ball strong from Teager to close Acle down left side wrestle possession back take the ball inside pushes it on into the path of Partridge breaking forwards 30 yards out lets fly with a venomous strike comes straight at Fullbrook the keeper reacting instinctively gloves up deflects the ball up over her head onto the crossbar it bounces once, twice on the woodwork before falling back into play pressure behind her Fullbrook is distracted watching the ball grabs it into her body saving on her goal line. 

AFC Sudbury’s Megan Partridge with Acle’s Kate Pasque

 Another much needed drinks break in the 2nd half. Acle bring Scully back on for Flatt in the middle. Sudbury win a corner after the game resumes left side the ball into the box Teager chests down and on the turn hits a shot the ball straight at Fullbrook well positioned in the goal beyond. Acle break quickly the ball up top for Kindred central drags her strike wide as Everett diving across smothers the ball. Wilson winning the ball left side plays a good diagonal ball long for Todd running clear on the right sends the cross inside for Scully in a central position outside the box the midfielder connects with the ball sends her shot high over the Sudbury goal.

Acle make a goalkeeper change with Fullbrook coming off to be replaced by Joanne Hooper who can and has played everywhere on the pitch for Acle over the seasons. Seabrook comes off for Sudbury, Georgia Lindon comes on goes into right back with Harrison moving inside, Candler pushed into midfield. Rowland on the ball in the middle pushes on attacking the Sudbury defence sends the pass to Bullard coming inside from the left outside the area plays her shot wide of goal. An injury concern for Sudbury as Wheeler stays down after the attack her ankle strapped before the game looks to have injured it again a long break in play as she receives treatment. Gingerly gets back to her feet and is able to limp off the pitch.

Acle’s Amber Rowland with AFC Sudbury’s, Sophie Jeffery

An enforced change Seabrook comes back on for Wheeler, Chandler too comes off Halil returning to the field. A strong run from Partridge through the midfield before playing the ball into Teager outside the box back to goal good control before getting a shot away wide of the far post. Bullard takes the ball on down the left looks to get past Lindon the defender going to ground times her challenge well conceding the corner kick from the left side the ball comes into the area a touch sends t towards goal lacks pace Everett going to ground it able to claim the ball. 

Jeffery in a central position breaks with the ball for Sudbury plays the pass over the top with Acle holding a high line Teager is in behind after the ball. Hooper with a good starting position inside the box is out quickly to clear the danger. 

GOAL! With the game stretched both sides looking to attack Acle grab a 5th goal the ball with Todd on half way she runs forwards, Scully is the player furthest forwards inside the box Todd’s diagonal pass picks her out Scully opening up her body connects with the ball sending it wide of Everett and into the goal to make it 5-2 .

The injuries 2nd half have extended the game by several minutes kicking off at 3:02 the 45 minutes are up but there is quite alot of stoppage time to be played. Sudbury make a change Teager coming off up top to be replaced by Phoebe Scott. Flatt is back on for Acle replacing Bullard. Everett palms down a strike sent goalwards from Burton on the edge of the area. Hooper is a long way out of her area to kick clear as Sudbury look to counter quickly. Roach to take a free-kick wide right on halfway for Sudbury delivers the ball to the top of the area the header comes in knocked down towards goal Hooper throwing herself forwards can claim the ball.

 Tensions have been building throughout the 2nd half and they come to a head with Henderson shown a straight red card in the closing moments for saying something she shouldn’t have to the referee Sudbury reduced to 10. Acle attack in the final seconds the ball with Rowland outside the box takes it across the top of the area before seeing her shot blocked by Harrison the final action of the match.

Full time Acle United Ladies 5-2 AFC Sudbury Ladies

  Another 5 goals scored by Acle as they open their campaign with 2 league wins taking maximum points with a 5-2 victory at home. Deserved winners starting well taking the lead Sudbury responded straight away before going 3-1 down at half-time as Acle got in behind their defence to score. Sudbury started brightly 2nd half before falling a further goal behind again responded well getting a goal back almost a 3rd Acle going on to wrap up the win late on.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match some fine attacking play from Acle today moving the ball with pace have chosen their captain Rebecca Burton with some fine passing dropping deeper to receive the ball from the midfielders her forward passes setting up chances and goals along with also getting her name on the scoresheet. 

   With two sides both scoring 5 goals in their opening league game I might have been setting myself up for a 0-0 but knowing these two sides didn’t expect anything but a committed competitive contest, plenty of energy and goals an entertaining match played in hot temperatures very enjoyable to watch.

 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 20/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th August

  On to the ERWFL opening weekend The Round-Up continues with the Eastern Regional Leagues. Three leagues this season with an influx of 5 new sides. The Premier Division contested by 12 sides with Cambridge City Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies promoted from Division One last season. This season Division One is once again split into 2 leagues a North and a South with 7 sides in each playing each other 3 times. The South Division One was supposed to contain 8 sides but very sadly on the eve of the season Offley & Stopsley WFC a long established side in the ERWFL took the hard decision to fold due to lack of players a real shame but wishing all the players and coaching staff all the best. Five new names in the league, Harlow Ladies and Bishops Stortford Ladies joining Division One South. King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Cambridge United WFC Reserves and Ipswich Town Ladies Development joining Division One North. With Offley & Stopsley WFC  folding there were no games in Division One South on the opening weekend but a still plenty of action to bring you from the Premier Division and Division One North although some results hurt on the opening day.

ERWFL Premier Division

Acle United Ladies were one win away from sealing the ERWFL Premier Division title last season and promotion to the FAWPL they were playing Haringey Borough Women the winner taking the title, Acle lost Haringey celebrated winning the title. Nevertheless a fantastic season by the Norfolk side and they have a determination to go one better this time around on the whole have retained most of their squad have brought in goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook from North Walsham Angels Ladies. Kirstie Kindred and Olivia Mungham-Grey join from Thorpe United Ladies along with Ceira Flatt from Lowestoft Town Ladies. Started their season on the road in Bedfordshire away to AFC Dunstable Ladies who themselves enjoyed a fantastic season last tie around for the most part in 3rd position ultimately ending 4th. Have recruited a few Offley & Stopsley players including Charlene Moreton, Nicolle Robinson and Riane Townsend-Brown. 

Acle took the lead at Creasey Park, captain Rebecca Burton putting them 1-0 up in the 1st half scored her 2nd from the penalty spot after midfielder Amber Rowland was brought down in the area. Dunstable got it back to 2-1 before the break. 2nd half Acle went on to extend their lead Megan Todd grabbing herself and opening day brace before Burton went on to score her hat-trick tapping home at the far post to seal a 5-1 win.

A 5-1 win wasn’t enough to put Acle top of the Premier Division however are actually 4th! The spot is Billericay Town Ladies after they had an emphatic win at home in their opening league fixture against league new comers Colney Heath Ladies. The visitors squad was a bit thread bare with a number of their squad unavailable were put to the sword by a Billericay side that has in recent season been challenging at the top of the ERWFL no so much last season finishing mid-table. Paris Smith bagged herself 5 goals on the opening weekend with her captain Lindsey Morgan not far behind with 4 there were goals to for Hayley Piggott, Lauren Knight and Nicole Farmer in a 12-1 win. Samantha May with the consolation goal for Colney Heath who will come back stronger.

   Ending the opening weekend in 2nd spot in the table are Bedford Ladies, title challenges for most of the campaign last season only out of the running in the final month finishing 3rd 3 points off top spot. Have a young squad this time around but still expect them to be sniffing around the top of the Premier Division table. Were at home hosting Lowestoft Town Ladies relegated from the FAWPL last season. Were very close to folding just a month ago due to lack of players but an SOS call put out on social media was answered with a good response their new management team having a determination to get the club back on the right footing. New faces to bed in however it was Bedford’s more settled squad who came out on top a hat-trick for Eden Kibron along with goals for captain Michelle Byrne, Priya Bhatti and Natasha Fensome in a 7-0 win.

Into 3rd are AFC Sudbury Ladies performed well last season eventually ending up in 5th spot looked at times as if they could challenge the sides above them. Started the season at home to Royston Town Ladies. The goals were shared out amongst the team as Sudbury ran out 5-0 winners with Mia Etheridge, Phoebe Guiver, Sophie Jeffery, Megan Partridge and Stacey Teager all opening their scoring accounts. 

4 sides weren’t in action will get their season started next weekend, Brentwood Town Ladies, Colchester Town Ladies, Writtle Ladies and newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies.

ERWFL Division One North

In ERWFL Division One North their were 3 games played on the opening weekend with 7 sides in the league it was King’s Lynn Town Ladies having to sit thing’s out get started this Sunday the 27th at home to Essex side Silver End United Ladies. Histon Ladies were relegated from the Premier Division after finishing bottom this season. Over the close season however the club has gotten stronger already linked with Histon FC and playing their home games at the Glassworld Stadium now have a new Reserves side to bolster the 1st team. Began the season with a tasty encounter a local derby with Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Histon formerly Great Shelford Ladies regularly playing Cambridge’s 1st team in the Invitation Cup Final. A different story today Cambridge United’s Reserve side having a few new faces and a squad stretched across both theirs and the 1st team squad players out through injury and unavailability it was Histon who took full advantage Sophie Lanham scoring to give Histon the lead in the 1st 5 minutes.

    Abi Davies doubled the advantage to Histon midway through the 1st half with Katie Webb making it 3-0 on the half hour mark. Charlotte Westrope extended the lead further 20 minutes into the 2nd half, Cambridge had chances to pull a goal back nut Histon held onto the clean sheet to win 4-0 and get their season off to a winning start. 

 Histon are 2nd however as Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies who will be aiming for the title after clinching a 3rd place finish in their debut season in the ERWFL last season began with a strong home performance at home against new side Ipswich Town Ladies Development at King’s Meadow. Wymondham have recruited in the summer bringing in Luke Worley formerly Newmarket Town Ladies 1st team coach to assist manager Alex Guy, following Luke from Newmarket are striker Nadine Basson and midfielder Kirsten Hummel. Defender Lauren Kett has joined from Thorpe United Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan and Brooke Moreno are also new addition to an ambitious club. 

It was O’Callaghan on her debut who got Wymondham into the lead scoring on her debut in the 11th minute went on to score her 2nd on the half hour mark. Laura Wiseman was Wymondham’s top scorer last season and got off the mark in the 34th minute to put the home side 3-0 up scoring her 2nd 4 minutes later to see Wymondham in control of the game with a 4-0 lead at the break. The goals continued 2nd half Kayleigh Holloway made it 5-0 5 minutes after the restart. Leah Newcombe wearing the captains armband today made it 6-0 scoring (and I’m quoting twitter here) a WORLDIE from 35 yards. New signings Basson and Moreno were both introduced from the bench  and went on to score on their debuts Basson on 66 minutes and Moreno 3 minutes later. Wiseman completing her hat-trick in the last 10 minutes to wrap up a 9-0 win. Ipswich Town Ladies Development side unbeaten last season tasting defeat for the first time.

The last match from ERWFL Division One North featured Silver End United Ladies at home to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Silver End United Ladies have players back in their squad after suffering from departures last season that threatened the clubs survival have recovered and have confidence going into the new season. Ipswich Wanderers too have struggled for numbers in the past but are an established member of the ERWFL both are capable of pushing for the top of the table. It was Ipswich Wanderers who held the advantage at half-time leading 1-0, going onto claim all 3 points with a 3-1 win in the 2nd half captain Tanya McKew netting a brace along with a goal for Laura Tuley. Stephanie A’Len scoring for Silver End United Ladies.

Promises to be an interesting league, not seen the best of the new comers yet and both will be smarting after the opening weekend.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 20/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th August

The new season is finally here and with it The Round-Up is back too. All the action from the FAWPL Southern Division right down to the county leagues across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire covered. The county leagues don’t get underway until next month but this weekend saw the return of both the FAWPL and the ERWFL. First up the FAWPL Round-Up covering both the Southern and South East Division One. 

FAWPL Southern Division

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies won the FAWPL Southern Division title last season going on to win the FAWPL Playoff game to win a place in FAWSL 2. With Tottenham going up and only 11 sides in the Division bottom side QPR Ladies were spared relegation. 12 sides contesting the league this season with Division One South East and South West champions, Gillingham FC Ladies and Chichester City Ladies both promoted. Looking at thing’s in pre-season would have to say Coventry United Ladies or Charlton Athletic Women are favourites to win the title, Crystal Palace have recruited well too could be another contender.

Onto the action and of the two favourites I mentioned above they couldn’t have gotten off to a better start. Goals a plenty in the league on the opening weekend 32 in all across the six games. It’s Crystal Palace Ladies holding top spot in the Southern Division as they won big on the opening day. At home played QPR Ladies, Crystal Palace have bolstered their squad over the close season bringing in Striker Nikita Whinnett from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies along with Megan Lynch. Stefanie Simmons joins from Charlton. Megan Chandler and Ria Collins also new additions. It didn’t take Whinnett long to open her account for Crystal Palace scoring in the 8th minute.

   An equally important signing was retaining the services of striker Gemma Bryan scored plenty last season and on the half hour mark opened her account for this season. Crystal Palace had more chances in the 1st half but at the break the lead was 2-0. It rained goals in the 2nd half and both Bryan and Whinnett had another goal each inside the 1st 10 minutes of the restart on 57 minute Bryan completed her hat-trick. Stefanie Simmons got in on the scoring act netting on her debut. Whinnett not to be out done made it a hat-trick too in the 75th minute. Bryan going on to claim 5 goals on the day netting 2 more in the final 5 minutes as Crystal Palace ran out 9-0 winners inflicting a heavy defeat on QPR.

   Coventry United Ladies weren’t far behind Crystal Palace just a goal in it in 2nd spot as they racked up a high score away to Swindon Town Ladies winning 8-0. Have another player in hot scoring form early in the season as Alison Hall scored a 1st half hat-trick with goals in the 3rd, 30th and 34th minute, the lead 4-0 at the break with Keeley Davies opening her account volleying home a minute after Hall had scored her 1st. Hall went on to add a 4th goal to her tally early in the 2nd half with substitute Nikki Miles making it 6-0 just past the hour mark. Jade Brook went on to score a double to round off the score. A tough home start for Swindon Town Ladies. 

Charlton Athletic Women were also amongst the goals as they began their season at home to Lewes Ladies at Thamesmead. Have like Crystal Place added several new players to their squad with James Marrs coming in to join the coaching staff. Charlotte Gurr joins having been at Gillingham FC Ladies along with goalkeeper Katie Startup. Kat Nutman is a good addition with plenty of FAWSL 2 experience with Oxford United Women. Ellie Dorey comes in from Brighton, Liz O’Callaghan another new addition. Chloe Brunton Wilde coming in too plenty of new faces. It was the visitors who themselves have made some useful signings strikers Amy Taylor and Lisa Fulgence who were to take the early lead Lewes ahead in the 7th minute Kate McIntyre scoring. Charlotte Lee got Charlton back on level terms netting on 20 minutes with 2 late goals putting the home side ahead in the 1st half an own goal on 38 minutes, Ellie Dorey scored on her competitive debut to see Charlton lead 3-1 in the 42nd minute.

Last season’s top scorer for Charlton, Kit Graham was introduced from the bench in the 61st minute went on to score twice on the opening day to make it 5-1 to Charlton with Gurr scoring her 1st Charlton goal in the final minute of the game.

Portsmouth FC Ladies are 4th after the opening day fixtures as they picked up a great result at home playing one of last season’s title contenders Cardiff City Ladies. Molly Clark, Jade Widdowson and Rachel Panting amongst Portsmouth’s new signings it was Shannon Albuery who gave Portsmouth the early advantage scoring a goal in the 3rd minute. Natasha Stephens doubled the lead just past the quarter hour mark and own goal soon after pulling it back to 2-1. Samantha Quayle netting with a couple of minutes remaining in the 1st half to see Portsmouth lead 3-1 at half time. Cardiff were reduced to 10 early on in the 2nd half Laura Williams red carded. But so too were Portsmouth goalkeeper Michelle Beasley sent to the dressing room too. It was Molly Clark on her debut to make the 3 points beyond doubt for Portsmouth scoring in the 88th minute to seal a 4-1 victory.

 Another side recruiting well before the season are Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies. Have brought in April Bowers and Ellie Manning from Gillingham FC Ladies aswell as Katie Whitehead from Billericay Town Ladies. Were at home on the opening day at Canvey Island FC hosting newly promoted Chichester City Ladies. Goals for Danica Revell and April Bowers on her debut saw the home side start with a win taking all 3 points with a 2-0 win that puts them into 5th early on.

 After a 2 season absence Gillingham FC Ladies were back in the FAWPL Southern Division making their bow at home on the opening day and doing so at Gillingham FC’s Priestfield stadium to hosting West Ham United Ladies now fully under the umbrella of West Ham United. Gillingham despite promotion have seen several players depart the squad over the summer had a large squad with plenty of young players ready to step up. West Ham United have several new signings, Mollie Kmita was with Gillingham for a spell herself last season, Abi Igbavboa formerly with Crystal Palace have also added Amber Stobbs who had spells with FAWSL sides Reading FC Women and Everton Ladies, now named as captain at the club. The game itself looked to be heading for a draw neither side able to break the dead lock right up until the final minute when Kallie Balfour found the back of the net to score and seal an opening day 3 points for Gillingham FC Ladies.

FAWPL South East Division One

Onto the FAWPL South East Division One, again the opening day saw all 12 sides in action with contrasting results for the two newly promoted sides Leyton Orient WFC and Haringey Borough Women. For the past two seasons the league has been won by a runaway side Gillingham FC Ladies and Crystal Palace Ladies respectfully. This time round I think it will be much closer at the top Milton Keynes Dons Ladies finishing runners up last season may be slight favourites but the likes of AFC Wimbledon, Actonians Ladies, Luton and Cambridge may well be there or there about. Is a league where anyone on their day can beat anyone else.

Actonians Ladies surged to the top of the pile as they gave new promoted Haringey Borough Women a debut day defeat they aren’t likely to forget in a hurry. Were a surprise package last season their 2nd in the league started strongly and stayed competitve all season in the top 5 eventually clinching a top half finish. Alessandra Barreca was their top scorer then and hit the new season running smashing 5 past Haringey Borough. Katrina Duncan and Sinthujah Sooriyakumar both netting a brace there were goals to for Lafa Uche, Catherine Murphy, Caterina Kensbock and Mariko Engels in a resounding 13-0 win. A tough loss to start the season for Haringey Borough who also had Stephanie Cooper sent off for 2 bookable offences

The other side newly promoted to the side from the regional leagues are Leyton Orient WFC they made their debut in the FAWPL away to Cambridge United WFC at Mildenhall Town FC. That match was the featured game of the weekend on Women’s Football East and the match report can be found just below this post. Plenty of changes for Cambridge United WFC who looked in contention for the league title for a good portion of last season before eventually finishing 4th. Lots of new faces and a few absences and injuries early on seeing a new look side take to the pitch against a Leyton Orient WFC side that had retained almost all of last season’s promotion winning squad excited to get going to. Chances early on for Cambridge, Leyton Orient grew into the game. A competitive and physical game the visitors held Cambridge to 0-0 at the break came out strongly 2nd half both sides may well feel they could have got the winning goal but in the end the points were shared overall the result a good platform for both to build on.

New signing Amber Cantwell attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Luton Town Ladies are 2nd in the table after the opening round of fixtures as they hosted Stevenage Ladies starting their 2nd season in the league. New signings for both sides, Luton bringing in goalkeeper Grace Brooks from London Bees, Steph Gale from Leicester City and Lisa Nixon from Watford along with adding development players to their 1st team squad. Stevenage have resigned striker Nicole Perschky (now Emmings) aswell as Paige Logie from Cambridge United WFC, along with Amy Makewell, Emma Marshall and Chloe Gunn.  

Luton opened the scoring on 11 minutes with Zara Carroll rifling home from 35 yards, it was Carroll again on target 10 minutes later to make it 2-0. Jess McKay put Luton into a 3-0 1st half lead but the score was 3-2 at the break as Stevenage fought back with two quick goals from captain Donna McGuigan and Amy Josland. Luton going on to secure the 3 points in the 2nd half with Nicola Henman scoring twice to seal a 5-2 win.

Norwich City Ladies were in a relegation battle at the bottom of the South East Division One table last season saving themselves with a magnificent performance in their final games. Have added to their squad for the new campaign bringing in striker Vivian Moyo from Thorpe United Ladies. Goalkeeper Eilish Brogan from Lowestoft and Luka Goodfield from Acle United Ladies along with Sasha Diston returning after being with AFC Sudbury Ladies. Also welcome back midfielder Jordan Arnoup who has been out of the game for the game for 2 seasons battling injury. Hosting Enfield Town Ladies, Norwich got off great start Aimee Durrant putting them into the lead inside 15 minutes, Chelsea Garrett doubled the advantage early in the 2nd half before Enfield fought back Lisa Kline making it 2-1 on the 67th minute had them level just 3 minutes later. 2 quickfire goals turned the game around in Enfield’s favour with 15 minutes left, Robyn Ami Brown a 2nd half substitute scoring to make it 3-2 Amira Martin made it 4-2 to the visitors 2 minutes later to see Enfield leave Norfolk with all 3 points.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies hit the ground running as they netted the fastest goal of the day at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Kerry Newman scoring inside the opening 2 minutes chances to extend the lead it was 1-0 at the break. Denham got themselves back on level terms with 58 minutes on the clock awarded a set piece up stepped Alissa Down to send the dead ball over the keeper into the back of the net the final score both sides taking a point from the game.

   A repeat of last season’s opening day fixture AFC Wimbledon Ladies were hosting Ipswich Town Ladies at Sutton United. Ipswich Town scored 3 goals in the match but left empty handed suffering a 4-3 defeat. 3 goals this time however were enough to secure the 3 points as they came back back from a goal down after Kelly-Jade Whelan had put Wimbledon into the lead. Natasha Thomas scoring a brace on the opening day along with a goal for Lindsey Smith seeing the visitors win 3-1. 

An eventful 1st weekend in the FAWPL best get used to it because I can’t see it being any different a busy season ahead.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Leyton Orient WFC

Sunday 20th August

 The new season is here! The 2017/18 season gets underway in the FAWPL and looks like it is going to be as competitve as ever. Starting the season with a game from FAWPL South East Division One at Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC who finished 4th in the league last season host newly promoted Leyton Orient WFC.

The past two seasons the league has been won by a runaway leaders Gillingham FC Ladies last season and Crystal Palace Ladies going unbeaten the season before. With no side coming down from the FAWPL Southern Division, South East Division One looks tighter this year. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies slight favourites to finish top there are a host of sides below them who could mount a strong challenge and most sides on their day are capable of beating anyone else. It’s what makes the league so exciting.

  Is a much changed Cambridge United WFC side going into the start of the 2017/18 campaign a few players moving to rivals in the league or taking a break from the game. Goalkeeper Verity Crook hanging up her boots. Are without defender Chloe Bennett for the start of the season as she is still recovering from the dislocated elbow she suffered at the end of last season as well as attacker Becky Taylor who was impressive for the club last season scooping most of the end of year awards out long term with an ACL injury.

  Have brought in goalkeeper Chloe Crook on loan from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies however injury sees her out of today’s league opener. Striker Nuala Wayne returns to the club as does Nettie Stillinger after a spell with Lowestoft Town Ladies. Charlotte Crisp also returns after university having been briefly with the club before. Creative midfielder Amber Cantwell steps up to the FAWPL after constantly impressing for Wymondham Town Ladies. Emma Whitter also joins the striker bringing a wealth of experience with her after spells with FAWSL 2 sides London Bees and Millwall Lionesses. Another new addition with plenty of FAWPL experience is Amy Howlett having played for Charlton Athletic Women aswell as two spells with Ipswich Town Ladies. Lastly joining the club after impressing on trial is Ruth Fox who was with Hitchin Belles last season. A new look side manager Steve Edwards hasn’t set any targets for this season a squad with plenty of potential to develop.

Leyton Orient WFC step up the the FAWPL after winning the London & South East Regional Premier Division title last season finishing 8 points clear at the top winning 16 of their 18 league games with only the one defeat. Have retained pretty much all of the squad that won promotion last season including top scorer Sophie Le Marchand who scored 39 goals during the 2016/17 season. One new addition with Hannah Porter joining from FAWPL Southern Division side C&K Basildon Ladies. Face a stern test as they play their football at a higher level with 3 successive away games against the sides that finished 4th, 5th and 6th.

Cambridge United WFC return to Mildenhall Town FC after playing their home matches their last season taking advantage of an excellent playing surface, the pitch looks as good as ever, Mildenhall Town FC winning promotion to the Bostik North Division. A sloping pitch from one goal mouth to the other some ground improvements made following promotion addition toilet facilities and turnstiles. A good sized clubhouse and hot drinks and refreshments available. A warm August afternoon to start the season a few dark clouds above but no rain forecast.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – MacKenzie McGranor, Emma Jenkins, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Nettie Stillinger, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Laura Mills, Amy Howlett, Emma Whitter & Lauren Gibson. Subs – Nuala Wayne & Ruth Fox.

Leyton Orient WFC starting XI – Naomi Ogunde, Francesca Cagetti, Hannah Porter, Danielle Griffiths (C), Connie Montiel-McCann, Egle Trezzi, Vanessa Wilson, Hayley Barton, Leyre Bastyr, Ella Meadowcroft & Jasmine Campbell. Subs – Olympia Diamond, Belen Ripoll-Douton, Natalie Colangelo & Chanel Richards.

 Both sides are have players unavailable at the start of the season Leyton Orient are with striker Le Marchand away on her honeymoon aswell as last seasons player of the year Ellie Davies. Cambridge have MacKenzie McGranor keeping goal in the absence of Crook and with their Reserves side making their bow in the ERWFL Division One North today can only pull a limited number from that squad with just the two subs on the bench. 

It’s Leyton Orient to get the 1st half underway wearing an all blue kit with Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical stripped shirts, black shorts and socks. Leyton Orient attacking down the slope look to thread a ball through the middle of the Cambridge defence who are playing 3 at the back the ball is won by Nettie Stillinger for Cambridge plays a good ball out to Laura Mills operating on the  left over half way carries the ball in field towards the area before dinking it up over the Leyton Orient defence with Amber Cantwell breaking forwards from midfield getting onto the end of it shoots early firing the ball back across the keeper runs wide of the far post.

Amber Cantwell attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Leyton Orient are awarded a free kick wide on the right around half way the ball played up towards striker Jasmine Campbell 30 yards from goal looks to turn and hit a shot, Stillinger closes her down putting in the blocking tackle to deny the strike. A good temp at the start Leyton Orient pressing Cambridge on the ball win a series of throws in their opponents half without finding a telling ball into the area.

Cambridge captain Laura Bright playing in front of her defence plays a great ball forwards for the strikers to chase, Lauren Gibson who had a great season with the Reserves last season stepping up to the 1st team gives chase left of goal into the area, Connie Montiel-McCann lunges into the challenge to win the ball take it away from the attacker before she can latch onto it. Off the resulting throw in on the left the ball is back with Gibson tries her luck from distance a dipping ball on target goalkeeper Naomi Ogunde parries it behind for a corner kick at her near post.

  The corner taken from the left comes in high far post area Gibson jumps up to try and win the header, Hannah Porter up with her the ball goes behind the final touch off the defender a corner awarded this time from the right, Laura Mills across to take it the ball comes into the area half cleared Kayleigh-Anne Burt up from the back for Cambridge retrieves and gets it back to Mills who drives on towards the by line cutting the cross square in towards the near post Bright closest goes to attack it a Leyton Orient defender slides in to make the challenge Bright goes down another corner is signalled this one cleared by Leyton Orient.

Good build up play from Cambridge on the right the ball played into Emma Whitter holds it up as Cantwell gets forwards centrally the pass played into her crosses it out to the left with Amy Howlett available inside the box gets her head to the ball but can only place the ball straight into Ogunde’s gloves. Hayley Barton takes the ball on down the right wing into the corner crosses it in towards the near post Burt defending wins it for Cambridge. Vanessa Wilson out to Leyre Bastyr finding a little space on the left for Leyton Orient fires the pass into the feet of Campbell outside the box tries to turn but is closely marked by Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins who wins the ball back. 

  Cambridge a temporarily down to 10 with Mills off receiving treatment. Leyton Orient press the advantage Bastyr onto the ball left looks to play Campbell in behind the ball is won back but Leyton Orient don’t left Cambridge get far closing down win a free kick outside the box right of goal 25 yards out Barton to take gets the ball around the wall on target but lacking enough pace as McGranor moves across to safely collect. 

Leyton Orient’s, Jasmine Campbell

  Building some momentum Leyton Orient regain possession in the middle the ball is played in behind into the area seeing Ella Meadowcroft one on one with the keeper right of goal McGranor comes out sliding in to block does enough to put the striker off the ball isn’t clear however Meadowcroft goes after it, Stillinger getting back to win and clear for Cambridge. The action is from one end to the other Leyton Orient attacking right Barton crossing into the box, Cambridge launch clear turns into an excellent ball for Mills giving chase into space on the right looks to curl a cross into the area sees the ball come back into play off as it strikes the near post. Leyton Orient get it up field as Mills stays down after the attack needing further treatment is able to continue.

Egle Trezzi finds the pitch open up in front of her as she brings the ball on time to play the ball she puts in in over the top of the Cambridge defence for Barton moving inside from the right into the area she hits it across the box for Bastyr coming in from the left connects with the header, McGranor scrambles across her goal but can see the ball drop safely a foot wide of the post. Cantwell brings the ball forwards for Cambridge before checking her run and playing the pass to Howlett on the left puts the ball into the area from a deep position, Ogunde claims the ball well as Gibson comes leaping in looking to get onto the end of it. Leyton Orient launch a rapid counter attack Porter on for Bastyr her ball played across the top of the area Barton right of the D launches onto it sends her shot high over the bar.

Cambridge’s Amy Howlett

Cambridge are awarded a free kick on half way right side the ball fired up towards the top of the box, Leyton Orient captain Danielle Griffiths gets a foot on the ball but can only push it out of the area Cantwell is onto it under challenge shifts the ball to her right gets a shot away the ball racing wide of the post from 22 yards. Is shaping up to be a physical encounter both sides prepared to stand their ground Gibson turns and plays the ball out wide right Mills gives chase getting it crosses early low comes in central Howlett tries to get onto it, Griffiths is their 1st to win the tackle and cancel the threat. 

Leyton Orient WFC captain, Danielle Griffiths

A corner on the right for Leyton Orient as the 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes comes in near post put behind looks a goal-kick however another corner is awarded this one comes in deeper is cleared out of the area falls to Porter 30 yards out central looks to strike the ball in towards goal a Leyton Orient attacker is offside as the ball bounces through obscures McGranor’s view for a moment but seeing it late gets across to make the save palming the ball initially before gathering.

Meadowcroft brings down Burt as the defender looks to carry the ball out from the back from the resulting free kick the ball is played long up to Gibson back to goal who helps it on with her head for Whitter to her right the striker peeling away finds some space driving into the area shapes to shoot back across the keeper gets it to close to Ogunde who drops low to make the save.

Cambridge’s, Emma Whitter with Leyton Orient’s, Francesca Cagetti

Into 1st half stoppage time a corner for Leyton Orient on the left played in long is attacked far post Campbell up gets hurt as she knocks the ball down into the six yard box, for a second it looks like Bastyr can latch onto it before Mills stabs the ball away to safety. A break as Campbell receives treatment is okay however and shows it as the game resumes retrieving the ball from the top of the Cambridge area bringing it under control and hitting a shot straight into McGranor.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Leyton Orient WFC

 A competitive 1st half to start the season defences have been busy on both sides and for most of the 45 minutes doing well chances limited both defending deep chances to run in behind few. Mills getting some joy from Cambridge on the right. Competitive and physical newly promoted to the higher level Leyton Orient will have gained alot of confidence as both sides head into the dressing rooms.

Cambridge attacking down the slope get the 2nd half underway. The sun blazing high in the sky. Leyton Orient press right from the start preventing Cambridge getting the ball out of their half. Play broken up little attacking in the opening exchanges. The visitors are given a free kick wide left is a great delivery into the area McGranor comes leaping into the crowd in front of her looking to punch the ball away misses it as it flies over everyone and bounces wide at the far post. 

Leyton Orient’s high tempo and pressing taking advantage of a sluggish start to the 2nd half from Cambridge. Barton playing the ball into the box from the right Stillinger in to win it from Meadowcroft. Winning a corner on the left Griffiths to take for Leyton Orient plays it down the line for Porter to cross in, Bright winning the ball launches it clear turns into a good ball as the counter attack is on Mills furthest forwards picks it up goes on a dribbling run pulling the trigger from outside the box her shot held well by Ogunde. 

Leyton Orient’s Hayley Barton

The Leyton Orient defence are keeping a good shape Whitter is closely marked by Cagetti not giving her room to turn in behind when the ball is played into her feet. Campbell heads the ball on for Barton who in turn puts it into the box for Meadowcroft can’t get her shot away, Stillinger regain possession but fails to get rid of it as Leyton Orient continue to press. Crisp is forwards for Cambridge in position central outside the D as the ball is rolled into her from the right, Wilson goes to ground tackling to win the ball before a shot can be lined up.

  Whitter comes deeper to win the ball strong on the ball slides it into Cantwell going forwards looks to pick out Gibson ahead of her, Cagetti is quick to close her down win the ball. The ball played forwards both Cambridge strikers get their heads to the ball a one two with the ball in the air moving towards the box before Gibson takes on the shot top of the box in low but without pace gathered by Ogunde. Cantwell surges forwards into space with the ball through the middle plays it forwards for Whitter to chase ahead of her has half a yard on Cagetti into the box left of goal looks to poke it across the keeper towards the far post succeeds but sees her effort run narrowly wide.

Whitter is getting frustrated she and Cagetti are talked to by the referee. Burt bringing the ball out from the back wide left sends t on for Howlett her diagonal ball into the D needs to be kicked clear by the onrushing keeper as Whitter threatens to get onto the end of it. Leyton Orient make the first substitution of the match Meadowcroft coming off up top to be replaced by Belen Ripoll-Douton. 

Cambridge’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Crisp wins the ball on for Cantwell who drives forwards plays the pass up to Whitter has Gibson to her right headers the ball down into her taking it on Gibson crosses into the box far side Cagetti wins the header before Howlett. Leyton Orient don’t get the ball away however Cantwell gets it back and shoots from 25 yards her low shot put straight at the keeper. Another change for Leyton Orient, Olympia Diamond coming on for Wilson. Cambridge make a change too Nuala Wayne coming on for Gibson in attack. 

Cambridge’s Nuala Wayne with Leyton Orient’s Egle Trezzi

A few tired legs out there and a few tired challenges remains a physical contest the referee having a word with a few players without yet brandishing a yellow card. That changes when Diamond new to the action dives in somewhat rashly on Howlett in the middle of the park over competitive it didn’t look pretty but Howlett just dusted herself down and it’s a yellow card for Diamond. Bastyr drives towards the box with the ball left side is marshalled wide by Jenkins, wriggles free and fires a cross in no one attacking far post as the ball runs wide.

Bright with a good pass picks out Howlett free on the left gets forwards rolls the ball into Whitter top of the area left side the striker turns intending to push through the Leyton Orient defence towards goal is closed down by 3 defenders no way through the ball deflected clear of the area drops to Crisp bursting forwards she shots wide from 25 yards. The midfielders last act of the game as Cambridge bring her off and send Ruth Fox on. 

Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright

Late into the game Leyton Orient with a free kick inside the Cambridge half on the right as Whitter tangles with Barton. Griffiths on the ball plays it up towards the far post misses by McGranor falls to Campbell closed down quickly inside the six yard box Burt is clattered goes down play stopped so she can receive treatment is okay. McGranor is floored as she and Campbell come together in the box following a late corner for Leyton Orient the foul given the goalkeeper is okay to continue. 

  Leyton Orient make their final change as the game moves into the closing minutes bringing Trezzi off in midfield send on Natalie Colangelo. Cambridge switch to a back four in an attempt to find a late winner push forwards without getting in behind the visitors defence the final whistle blows and both sides share the points in their opening game.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Leyton Orient WFC

  Overall probably a fair result a good start to the game from Cambridge creating openings, Leyton Orient were solid and grew into the game started the 2nd half the better pressed hard and both sides might well have claimed the win but the longer it remained 0-0 it looked the most likely result. A point on the board for both sides. Cambridge with alot of new faces in their side looked comfortable enough a few thing’s to work on but a solid defensive performance overall. Leyton Orient will be happy with the point always important for any newly promoted side to put in a competitive performance early on to settle them down build confidence were like Cambridge solid defensively giving little away and their pressing game brought opportunities up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A tough one today for Women’s Football East, Player of the Match defensive on top so it has to be a defender Stillinger made some good tackles for Cambridge, Bright ahead of the back three was influential on the ball too. For Leyton Orient, their captain Griffiths put in a good performance but I have to pick one so today’s Player of the Match goes to Francesca Cagetti good positioning and some clever defending on show too.

Good to get back in the groove feels odd writing the match reports here instead of on the SWF Blog but I’ll get used to it the season has started a competitive game if no goals I’ve missed it.

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Sunday 6th August

A new beginning on Women’s Football East the first match report published straight to the website as it becomes the new home for the SWF Blog my other women’s football adventure moving here after 3 and a half season’s to better streamline my coverage of the game. Still as it is a continuation of the SWF Blog, (same writer) just a different platform this is match report 291.

  A new season will soon be upon us pre season well under way for some clubs the FAWPL season beginning in less than 2 weeks. Still plenty to do on the website. Have had a good break over the summer after completing 102 matches in 2016 then pushing straight on into 2017. Needed the rest did me the power of good. Would have been back sooner covering a few more friendlies only family matters took a turn for the worse and needed my whole attention. Settled down now and time to get back into it.

  Enough about me however onto the football. Began my season with a trip up the A47 to King’s Lynn the venue The Walks stadium to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies beginning their 2nd season under the King’s Lynn Town FC banner hosting Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who ply their trade 2 leagues higher in FAWPL South East Division One. 

 A good test for King’s Lynn Town Ladies as they get to host another showpiece game at The Walks following on from taking on a West Ham United Ladies XI last season. A club on the move beginning 3 seasons ago as Lynn Ladies winning promotion from Norfolk Women’s Division Two in their 1st season establishing themselves in Division One the following season. Merged with King’s Lynn Town FC last season as the club sort to build better community spirit and relations. The move bringing about more progress as the ladies side challenged for the Division One title and won their 1st ever piece of silverware the Ladies League Plate. Finishing 3rd in the end applied for promotion to the regional league and accepted won a place in ERWFL Division One North. The squad preparing for their 4th season playing at a higher level.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies will be amongst the favourites for the FAWPL South East Division One title this coming season having clinched runners up spot last time around. Bring a squad of both 1st team and development squad players up to Norfolk for today’s pre season friendly including new recruits Alice Hughes a recent signing from Nottingham Forest Ladies and striker Sarah Payne back to full fitness after recovering from a long injury lay off making the move from Stevenage Ladies.

The playing surface at The Walks looked immaculate a great pitch to play on will see alot of action over the coming season with King’s Lynn Town FC having 6 teams, 1st’s, Reserves and U18s using it on a regular basis. King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing any home ties they receive in this season’s County and FA Women’s Cup here. A good sized stadium a large seated main stand, bar and refreshments. The weather was perfect bright and sunny another great opportunity to showcase women’s football at the ground. 

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies squad – Bryony Russell-Smith, Millie Wilson, Winnie Lee, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Bethan Jones, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C), Josie Turner & Elle Bocking, Vikki Burkauskaite, Tegan Wheeler, Lisa Wilson & Louise Coggles.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies squad – Sophie Shults, Khakr, Taylor Shields, Zoe Lander, Abbey Roberts (C), Sarah Harrison, Charley Aldridge, Molly Corbett, Taylor Duffy, Charlotte Murphy, Sarah Payne. Jemma Brittain & Alice Hughes.

Kick-off

   It’s the visitors to get the game underway Milton Keynes wearing an all red strip with a black and white vertical band upon the sides of the shirts and shorts along with a black ad white hoop upon the socks. King’s Lynn are wearing their new kit for the season sponsored by Adrian Flux Insurance, blue shirts with a yellow collar and sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Milton Keynes start on the attack the ball played out to Taylor Duffy on the left wing runs inside taking the ball into the box, King’s Lynn centre back Albany Hodgson closes her down pushing her away from goal before tackling putting the ball behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! The last thing you want to do when facing higher league opposition is concede an early goal, Milton Keynes have several tall players in their side those fill the box for the set piece flighted in towards the far post by Duffy, Sarah Harrison is there connects knocking the ball into the ground on target one bounce taking it past goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith into the back of the net 0-1. 2 minutes played.

A positive start from the visitors, King’s Lynn yet to settle pushed back as Milton Keynes push players forwards win another corner on the left played in near side towards the top of the box, Charley Aldridge locks onto the  ball her shot is deflected wide of goal by a King’s Lynn leg to concede another corner. The ball comes in central is cleared by Hodgson for King’s Lynn the home side attempt to break the ball played long for Elle Bocking to chase threatening to get in behind is tackled by Zoe Lander for Milton Keynes.

 Charlotte Murphy gets hold of the ball in the middle for Milton Keynes attempts to play the ball in behind for striker Sarah Payne to chase taking her to the right of goal attempts to lift the ball over the defence into the middle of the six yard box the ball cut out is turned behind for the corner. Plenty of bodies in the six yard box the referee spots a foul as the ball is turned in towards goal a nervous start from the hosts. 

 King’s Lynn look to make progress down the right side the ball into Becky Russell helped on for Josie Turner up front again Lander gets across her to slide the ball into goalkeeper Sophie Shults to clear up field a counter attack on the pass from midfield finds Duffy running clear on the left carrying the ball into the box King’s Lynn’s Shanice Burch times her tackle perfectly going to ground to take the ball away from Duffy and behind for the corner. 

King’s Lynn need someone to get hold of the ball in the middle of the park. Coming forwards Bethan Jones gets the ball up the pitch Russell 25 yards out headers the ball on in towards the top of the area, Turner makes the run in behind, Lander goes with her however and gets her head on the ball to play it into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Just over 15 minutes played and King’s Lynn get themselves back on level terms with some good build up play the ball with midfielder Jade Kelly 30 yards out she has possession drives forwards fires the pass into Bocking left of the D good hold up play from the attacker sees Russell making a central run rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out central she lets fly straight at the keeper it dips late Shults goes to block with her gloves doesn’t get a good connection the ball slipping beyond her and to her dismay into the back of the net 1-1.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Becky Russell

Play is stretched Milton Keynes prepared to play a high line at times, King’s Lynn try to counter get their strikers in behind, Lander isn’t letting anything past her, last player on a couple of occasions times her tackles well. With Kelly finding a little more room to exploit King’s Lynn a posing a few problems going forwards. Risk being hit on the counter Milton Keynes quickly turning things around players going forwards Payne up front ready to break clear of the last defender a good tempo to the game. A shot wide from outside the box by Milton Keynes, Molly Corbett as she receives the lay off from Payne dribbling inside from the left.

King’s Lynn captain Shelley Woods playing on the left fires the ball in towards Turner inside the box her snap shot is wide of the near post. Harrison carries the ball forwards for Milton Keynes play in on for Murphy ahead of her, she in turn sends it on into the box with Payne breaking, Burch goes with her tackling to put the ball behind for a corner kick on the right. Players go forwards a high ball into the six yard box central is met by Milton Keynes, Abbey Roberts who sends her header up over the crossbar.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Shanice Burch

GOAL! Milton Keynes score soon after to retake the lead the ball won up field is lifted forwards picked up by Harrison central drives forwards his challenged by Russell outside the area, charged down the ball pops back to Harrison she hits it first time a sweet strike that flies like a bullet past the keeper before she can react into the back of the net 1-2.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Harrison

Milton Keynes make a change bringing right back Khakr off for Jemma Brittain. An injury blow for King’s Lynn, Kelly hurt as she goes in to tackle Duffy on the attack down the left side, the free kick awarded to the visitors Kelly can’t continue is carried off the pitch, Lisa Wilson coming on to join the action. Harrison to take the free kick the ball long towards the far post a touch but sent wide. Murphy wins Milton Keynes a corner on the right another good delivery into the box a point blank header from Harrison straight at Russell-Smith gloves it up into the air but claims as it falls. The referee plays an advantage as Duffy is brought down again on the left Taylor Shields on the overlap picking up the ball fires the diagonal ball inside to Murphy tees up a shot 20 yards out is wide of target.

Payne has been threatening to do it all through the 1st half, this time succeeds in beating the offside trap clear bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith comes rushing in to close her down, Payne shoots too close to the keeper takes a deflection off her putting it wide for the corner.

GOAL! The set-piece is played in from the left played up the line then fired into the area missed by the King’s Lynn defender attempting to clear runs through to Murphy beyond 8 yards from goal stabs her shot to the right of the keeper to score 1-3.

Up the other end Shults produces a fine save to deny Turner tipping her 20 yards strike over the bar, However both she and fellow striker Bocking had moved to soon as King’s Lynn looked to break as Jones and Russell break up another Milton Keynes attack. Penalty! A hand ball is spotted by the referee inside the King’s Lynn box as Milton Keynes attack down the left Duffy on the ball firing a ball into the area. It’s Duffy to take the spot kick fires her low drive narrowly wide of the left post the chance to extend their lead gone.

Payne finds herself in the clear again chasing another ball over the top 30 yards out closing in on the top of the area Russell-Smith comes out to close her down the pair collide as Payne squeezes her shot past the keeper the ball rolls wide across goal. Payne stays down a moment of concern as she clutches her ankle but it’s short lived as she gets back to her feet as the 1st half moves into stoppage time.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Payne

GOAL! Milton Keynes go on to grab a 4th goal in the closing seconds play stretched King’s Lynn over committing to an attack lose possession the ball is played long for Murphy as she moves out to the right attacking down the line beats the full back taking the ball inside the area closing in on the six yard box has Payne free in a central position picks her out a simple stroke into the back of the net 1-4.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-4 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Changes for both sides at the beginning of the 2nd half a switch of goalkeepers for Milton Keynes, along with Khakr coming back on for Roberts. King’s Lynn make a change bringing on Vikki Burkauskaite for Wilson going into the left back position, sees Millie Wilson move inside to centre back with Hodgson pushed up into a midfield role. King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half. 

The home side win an early free-kick on half-way Wilson to play the ball forwards left side into Woods combines with Turner the ball lifted in centrally into the box, Bocking getting onto the ball has just strayed offside. Hodgson wins the ball in the middle the pass on for Bocking up top good hold up play before shifting it out to Jones on the right shoots from the angle the 25 yard drive wide of the near post. A positive start to the 1st half from King’s Lynn. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Albany Hodgson

GOAL! 6 minutes into the 2nd half ad King’s Lynn pull a goal back a well timed run from Turner attacking left into the box as the ball is lifted forwards composure as she opens up her body to curl her shot wide of the keeper to score 2-4.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Josie Turner

GOAL! A sluggish start to the 2nd half from Milton Keynes the King’s Lynn goal waking them up the ball won in midfield played out to Duffy on the left side takes her the full back getting inside carries the ball on into the area before shooting firing a low strike across the keeper and into the far corner of the goal 2-5.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Taylor Duffy

Another chance for Duffy moments later as the ball is played into Payne central back to goal outside the D, works it wide into Duffy’s run as she charges into the box pulls the trigger shooting across goal this time the ball races wide of the far post. both sides make a change with Roberts back on for Milton Keynes replacing Harrison, Wilson back on for Jones. Good work from Russell on the right for King’s Lynn the ball rolled on for Bocking to attack inside the box sliding in at her feet the keeper can claim 1st. 

 Duffy plays an inviting cross in from the left Payne leaps inside the box a glancing header puts the ball wide of the far post from 10 yards out. What happened next I didn’t think was possible but even a 50+ goals a season striker can blaze over from 3 yards! King’s Lynn are attacking down the right good build up into Turner inside the box to the by line right of goal turns inside gets the ball past the keeper at the near post Woods is there unmarked looks certain to score but doesn’t the ball deflecting up off her boot over. 

GOAL! Moments from pulling it back to 3-5 Milton Keynes go up the other end and extend their lead, a swift counter move the ball turned around played wide to Duffy on the left an early diagonal cross into the box players free running in at the far post Payne and Murphy one of then turns the ball into the back of the net think it was Murphy but either way Milton Keynes lead 3-6.

A dominant spell from Milton Keynes follows King’s Lynn pushed back, Lee does well to keep Duffy getting inside the box before sliding in to challenge for the ball. Jones returns to the field for King’s Lynn replacing Hodgson. Milton Keynes press Payne picking up the ball centrally screws left then right before passing the ball forwards into the box for Roberts making the run, left of goal she shapes to shoot Russell-Smith dives in to save at her feet before Burch clears the ball. Harrison returns to the pitch for Milton Keynes as Duffy pushes inside from the left plays the pass across the top of the area into her inside the D, Harrison picks out Payne inside the box she drives her strike wide across goal.

Late into the game King’s Lynn have expanded alot of energy but break late on Russell finding space on the right cuts inside towards the area sees the keeper moving towards her opts for the early lob getting the ball over her, sees her effort bounce off the far post before Khakr gets back to clear. 

GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Milton Keynes score a 7th goal, Harrison has made several attacking runs throughout the game finding space tired legs in front of her now drives in right side into the area closing in on the by line cuts the cross back along the face of goal beating the keeper Payne running in with a defender far post both sliding in the ball ends up in the back of the net as Payne claims her 2nd of the game 2-7.

King’s Lynn push on late on in stoppage time Burkauskaite goes forwards getting in behind looks to turn inside get into the box closed down by Khakr the ball put behind for the corner left side Russell with the inswinging ball teasing bounces at the far post inside the six yard box but no one can connect as it goes out for the goal-kick.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-7 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

   The final whistle blows and Milton Keynes wrap up a 7-2 win as they prepare for the new season. Played well with some good individual performances and some well taken goals. A pre season friendly ultimately is about getting minutes in the legs, bedding in players and finding match sharpness in that regards a useful exercise for both sides. King’s Lynn recovering after a nervy start looked to be building momentum after equalising after Kelly started to find time on the ball, her injury a loss. Milton Keynes 1st team players having the experience to find the space and exploit it with Payne a good foil up front. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Today’s Women’s Football East (as a pose to the SWF Blog) – Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Done Ladies, Sarah Harrison good work on and off the ball always available for the pass and looking to make something happen carrying it forwards.

  The 1st match report of the new season, have missed it now rested up and ready to go with a new home can’t wait for the competitive action to begin so check back soon.

New Home for the SWF Blog

   As we prepare for a new season of women’s football, now is the perfect time to introduce a change of my own. Have been thinking about it for some time how to streamline my coverage of women’s football. My coverage of the game began with the Supporting Women’s Football Blog soon after the news regarding the rebranding of WSL side Lincoln Ladies. For 3 and a half season’s I have used it to help promote the women’s game up and down the country mostly writing match reports from the games I attend and even now it continues to grow. Soon after I came up with the idea for Women’s Football East a website designed to help in the promotion of women’s football in the East of England where I am based.

 At first I wanted it to stand on it’s own not cover the WSL at all as there wasn’t the WSL presence in the region. Only Watford Ladies based in Hertfordshire and Arsenal Women who play in Hertfordshire. As I started to cover more and more games in the region began writing the weekly Round-Up’s whilst also using the match reports featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. The Women’s Football East side of thing’s has grown even more rapidly however have been thinking for a while about combining both if the match reports are going to end up here anyway why not publish them here in the first place. 

 Now is the best time I’ve had a break away from the game. With Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC both joining the WSL in the last two season’s I feel Women’s Football East is ready to take over from the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. Is a wrench to give up the SWF Blog especially as I know it is still growing after all I’ve not posted anything for 2 months yet views remain high have a new following from the Netherlands and France as interest in the game is peaking in that part of Europe due to the Women’s Euros.

   Everything will almost stay the same the match reports and blog posts will continue as before just appear here instead of there. Women’s Football East is growing fast too and I need to spend more time on it suffered a little last season so stream lining thing’s will ultimately improve coverage for the whole of the region with the odd match further away dotted in between. Also find that Google’s blogspot platform and the wordpress based one I use for Women’s Football East are not always compatible which means the match reports don’t transfer as smoothly as I’d like familiar with both now going straight to wordpress will improve the quality of the match reports on here.

 The image at the top of the page (show below) will highlight where the Supporting Women’s Football Blog has gone but in time it will all be part of Women’s Football East. Won’t close the SWF Blog down however as there are plenty of memories on there from the past 3 and half years 290 match reports alone and you’ll still be able to access those. Match report 291 will be the 1st to be written up exclusively for Women’s Football East, finally began my season in Norfolk today with a trip to The Walks to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies take on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and will bring you the action some time over the next 24 hours it was good to be back. 

 It’s a small change but I’ll miss the SWF Blog but I know bringing it together with Women’s Football East will ultimately better my coverage of the game well all love. Plenty more to come.

New page header image for Women’s Football East