Some adjustment to the ERWFL Premier Division following the sad news of Colchester Town Ladies folding their fixtures no longer counting. That sees previous leaders Writtle Ladies dropping to 2nd behind Billericay Town Ladies, however with the Essex side not in action this weekend Writtle had a chance to return to the top. A tough fixture at home to 3rd placed Acle United Ladies. A great start from the visitors Acle scoring twice trough Naomi Cooper and Laura Holden in the opening 10 minutes to lead 2-0. Megan Todd scoring on the half hour to put Acle in the driving seat at half-time. Holden with her 2nd of the game made it 4-0. Writtle pulling a goal back before Grace Birchall scored two goals in the final 10 minutes to make it 6-1. Writtle pulling another back in stoppage time their goals scorers Leanne Stubbings and Lucy Jones. The 6-2 defeat Writtle’s 1st loss in the league this season. Acle closing the gap on the leaders to 5 points with a game in hand.
3 successive 2-1 home wins have turned Cambridge City Ladies into potential title chasers in the ERWFL Premier Division up to 4th they were comprehensive winners this Sunday at home to Brentwood Town Ladies who slip to 2nd bottom in the table. Bella Simmons scoring 7 goals for Cambridge City in the match. Stacey Fullicks and Charlotte Gillies both getting 2 goals a piece. Carla Penny and Anna Wilson also scoring in a 13-2 victory. Georgia Holdaway and Rosi Webb scoring the Brentwood goals.
A good point earned away from home against Acle United Ladies last weekend, Royston Town Ladies build upon that result by claiming a 3 points at home against 5th placed AFC Dunstable Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Becky Shephard, Gemma Croucher and Sammy Tinsley securing a 3-0 win.
Bedford Ladies had lost their previous 3 league games in the Premier Division seeing them slip down the standings, were away to Colney Heath Ladies this Sunday and ran out comfortable winners to move back into 6th place in the table. 8-0 the final score.
Losing the 3 points from one of their two league wins sees Lowestoft Town Ladies slip to the bottom of the ERWFL Premier Division table. Trying to rebuild and recruit additional players they were hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies this Sunday. A brace from Mia Etheridge along with goals for Charlotte Churchman and Natalie Golding seeing the visitors win all 3 points with a 4-1 win. Hannah Waters scoring for Lowestoft.
ERWFL Division One North
One match played in ERWFL Division One this weekend with 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers having suffered a heavy defeat away to Wymondham Town Ladies last weekend at home to Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Had the better of things 1st half this tie around leading the game 2-0 at the break. Cambridge threatening a comeback 2nd half scoring 3 times through Liz Pamplin, Teonie Peyton and Ebony Rule. Ipswich Wanderers just nicking the win however scoring twice more 2nd half to take the 3 points with a 4-3 result taking them back to within a point of leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Their goals scored by Jess Taylor-Allum, Michelle Taylor-Allum, Coral Young and Megan Strickland.
ERWFL Division One South
Likewise there was just the one league game played in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday with Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies hosting Essex side Hutton Ladies. A single goal sealing victory it was scored by Hutton’s Laura Allen giving them their 2nd win from 3 played to move level on points with 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies.
ERWFL League Cup
Elsewhere the ERWFL Division One sides left in the competition were in action in the 2nd Round of the League Cup. Division One North leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies were at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 2nd in Division One South. A goalless 1st half between the sides Tiffany Forshaw struck a brace for King’s Lynn in the 2nd half with Becky Russell and Oksana Imanalijeva also scoring in a 4-2 win to see them through to the 3rd Round. Sophie Dowman netting one of Little Thurrock’s goals.
Wymondham Town Ladies good form in cup competitions continued at the weekend as they hosted fellow Division One North side Histon Ladies in the 2nd Round of the League Cup. Laura Nicholls giving the hosts the lead midway through the 1st half they were pegged back to 1-1 late on with Katie Seymour equalising for Histon. Nicholls with her 2nd of the match restoring Wymondham’s lead early in the 2nd half. A late goal from Brooke Moreno secured the win for the hosts.
Tough tomes for Bishops Stortford Ladies as they suffered another heavy defeat at the weekend this time in the League Cup. At home were hosting Division One North side Ipswich Town Ladies Development. Emily Steward scoring 4 goals in the game. Olivia Gunn grabbing a brace. Grace Bowman, Destiny Minors and Jennifer Purbrook were all goalscorers too with an own goal bringing up a 10-0 win.
Twice in the league Harlow Town Ladies had lost out narrowly to fellow Division One South side Stevenage Ladies Reserves going down 1-0 both times. Now they faced each other in the 2nd Round of the League Cup. At home another competitve encounter between the sides it was Harlow who held a narrow 1-0 advantage at half-time Paige Horwood scoring midway through the half. 20 minutes into the 2nd half Harlow doubled their lead, Courtney Miller the goalscorer. The win secured in the final 5 minutes with Kaydee King making it 3-0 to see Harlow advance to the 3rd Round.
Hope for the chasing pack in the FAWPL Southern Division as runaway leaders Charlton Athletic Women victorious in their opening 8 league games have now suffered two successive defeats the latest this weekend away to 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the game with Angela Addison scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, April Bowers making it 2-0 to C&K Basildon before half-time. Charlton threatened an immediate comeback with Charlotte Gurr pulling it back to 2-1 a minute into the 2nd half however C&K Basildon defended well to hold on to their lead 2nd half and take all 3 points moving them onto 19 points 5 behind Charlton at the top with a game in hand.
A great result too for 2nd placed Lewes FC Women as they got back to winning ways in the league picking up the 3 points at home on Sunday with a convincing win over bottom side Swindon Town Ladies, scoring 7 goals without reply with 7 different names on the scoresheet. Rebecca Carter getting things started in the 23rd minute. Charlotte Owen doubling Lewes’ lead in the 38th minute her goal quickly followed by a 3rd from Avilla Bergin to put the hosts 3-0 up at the break. Rachel Palmer made it 4-0 in the 58th minute. Darcey James striking 10 minutes later to bring up the 5th goal. Sarah Kempson on target with 5 minutes left and a stoppage time goal for Danielle Lane completed the 7-0 scoreline. Lewes closing the gap to leaders Charlton to 4 points.
Coventry United Ladies are moving in the right direction up the FAWPL Southern Division table up to 4th now as they extend their unbeaten run in league and cup to 6 matches. Away to Portsmouth FC Ladies this Sunday who had beaten them 2-1 in the reverse fixture early in the season. The 2 sides playing out a goalless 1st half, Jade Formaston with a great strike early in the 2nd half giving the visitors the lead. Amber Hughes making it 2-0 with 20 minutes left. Coventry move onto 16 points have games in hand on all the sides above them.
FAWPL Cup
Two games from the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup played this weekend, Leyton Orient WFC from FAWPL South East Division One making the long trip to Wales to play higher league opponents Cardiff City Ladies. Doing well in the league Leyton Orient held the hosts to a goalless 1st half. The hosts getting the better of the 2nd half taking the lead Cori Williams hitting a brace with Ella Powell also getting a goal. Leyre Bastyr with a late goal for Leyton Orient as they exited the competition Cardiff winning 3-1.
3-1 was also the winning score for home side Plymouth Argyle Ladies from South West Division One, taking on Southern Division side, Chichester City Ladies. A 100% winning record in the league Plymouth took that form into the Cup. Striker Natasha Knapman scoring a goal either side of half-time, Tori Marks with a goal on the hour for Plymouth. Jade Widdows netting the goal for Chichester City as they exit the competition.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Cup was made earlier today ties scheduled to be played Sun 10th December:-
Cardiff City Ladies v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Cambridge United WFC v Coventry United Ladies
Lewes FC Women v Portsmouth FC Ladies
Liverpool Marshalls Feds v Blackburn Rovers Ladies
Nottingham Forest Ladies v Guiseley Vixens Women
Leicester City Women v Loughborough Foxes Women
Brighouse Town Ladies v Derby County Ladies
C&K Basildon Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women
FAWPL Plate
One tie from the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate played this weekend two an all Southern Division clash with West Ham United Ladies hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Chloe Burr striking in the 17th minute to put West Ham into the lead. Amber Stobbs making it 2-0 right on the stroke of half-time. Queens Park Rangers pulling it back to 2-1 3 minutes into the 2nd half through a Katie Knell goal it was West Ham who went onto score again Chenise Austin finding the back of the net in the 56th minute to see the hosts through to the 2nd Round of the competition with a 3-1 win.
Likewise the draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Plate was made today these ties also due to be played Sunday 10th December :-
Norwich City Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Brislington Ladies v West Ham United Ladies
Swindon Town Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies
Luton Town Ladies v Southampton Saints Girls
Fylde Ladies v Leeds United Ladies
Hull City Ladies v Newcastle United Women
Long Eaton United Ladies v Chorley Ladies
Birmingham & West Midlands Women v Crewe Alexandra Ladies
FAWPL South East Division One
5 games played in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies leaving it very late away from home against Enfield Town Ladies to keep their winning run going extending to 8 matches. Katie Stanley the heroine scoring in the 86th minute to see the visitors take the 3 points home with them keep them 4 points clear at the top of the table.
A brace from new signing Laura Mills sees Milton Keynes Dons Ladies consolidate 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table the 2 goals enough to claim all 3 points despite a goal from Joanne Rutherford for Luton Town Ladies.
A good result at home for Stevenage Ladies at the weekend at home to 6th placed Actonians Ladies picking up their 3rd league win of the season thanks to goals from Leah Littlechild and substitute, Kristi Burling clinching a narrow 2-1 result. Alessandra Barreca netting for Actonians.
Cambridge United WFC were at home on Sunday hosting Norwich City Ladies, had to comeback from a goal down to win the 3 points Chelsea Garrett scoring in the 7th minute for Norwich. The lead only lasted a couple of minutes however as Cambridge hit back immediately to level the scores Amy Howlett putting the ball home to make it 1-1. With 5 minutes left in the 1st half Cambridge took the lead, recent signing Lauren Cartwright scoring her 1st goal for the club. No more goals scored 2nd half Cambridge climb a place to 6th with the 2-1 win.
Finally Denham United Ladies were hosting bottom side Haringey Borough Women at the weekend. Jenny Banfield scoring twice in the game for Denham their were goals too for Emma Bebbington, Annie Hewitt and Celine O’Halloran in a 5-0 win.
First match report for a fortnight, rearing to go again after illness forced a couple of weekends rest. The action comes from Norfolk this Sunday in Division One with 4th placed Stalham Town Ladies hosting top of the table Sprowston Ladies.
The Norfolk Women’s football league reverting back to 2 divisions this season having previously been 3. With several new sides joining the league this season the revamp sees most of the sides playing in Division Two last season promoted to Division One, Stalham Town Ladies and Sprowston amongst them.
Both have started the season very well. Stalham Town Ladies recovering from a heavy defeat on the opening day of the season have gone unbeaten in the league since winning 2 and drawing their other game to move into 4th position in the table on 7 points, very tight at the top with 3 points separating the top 4. 2nd and 3rd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies the defending champions also meeting today.
Sprowston Ladies top of the table on 10 points undefeated from their opening 4 league games 3 wins and a draw. Sprowston have two sides in the Norfolk leagues this season. FC Sprowston Ladies are currently top of Division Two, but are not a reserve side, both sides standing on their own right. League Plate finalists last season went on to win the People’s FA Cup. A very strong youth set-up at the club too most of this Sprowston Ladies side from their U16s last season.
The two sides met in the Ladies League Cup 3 weeks ago Stalham Town at home then too knocking Sprowston out with a 2-1 win.
The venue for today’s game Rivers Park home for both Stalham Town FC’s mens and women’s sides. A large pitch elevated from the surrounding car parking area. The weather getting alot cooler as the clocks go back, cloud in the sky a threat of rain, a strong and chilly breeze blowing across the pitch which might influence play as the two sides emerged from the changing rooms for kick-off.
Stalham Town Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Lauren Bunstead, Charlotte Crane, Megan Meale, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Kerry Wright (C), Sophie Burr-Walpole, Vicki Lubbock, Amber Mayhew, Millie Cursons & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Chloe Yarham, Megan Bonham & Abbie Charlton.
Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Jenny Tranholm, Rea Drake, Calista Tink, Beth Cornwall, Nicole Smith, Rebecca Russell, Abby Hutchin (C), Chelsea Pettifer, Thea Hackney & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Georgia Cushion, Paige Barnard & Jade Mundford.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Stalham to kick-off the 1st half wearing an all red kit with Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with black across right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts with black and orange hooped socks. Pressing the ball right from the start Sprowston make ground up the left wing Victoria Leyer looking to link up with Rebecca Russell going forwards, Stalham’s Charlotte Crane defending that side does well to prevent the cross puts the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball from the throw Stalham counter attack the ball long for Millie Cursons to chase down on the right taking the ball into the corner wins a throw in this brings the 1st corner of the game Megan Meale coming forwards to take fired in near post Sprowston defend headed back out to Meale her 2nd ball in deflected behind for the goal kick.
Charlotte Crane bringing the ball forwards for Stalham Town Ladies
Sprowston attack on the right captain Abby Hutchin bringing the ball on knocks it inside for Thea Hackney positioned at the top of the box she looks to return the ball to Hutchin as she drives into the area her touch taking her away from goal holds the ball up looking up sends the past back towards the advancing Nicole Smith the midfielder takes on the 1st tie strike from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of the near post. Lauren Bunstead with a fantastic tackle at left back for Stalham denies Hutchin from getting a cross into the area following another strong run on the ball up the right flank for Sprowston.
GOAL! Sprowston win their 1st corner of the game and from take an early lead in the match on the right a great delivery whipped in with pace into the near post a great flick on sees the ball sent in across goal and Chelsea Pettifer is there to get her forehead on the ball and nod the ball down over the line to make it 0-1.
Chelsea Pettifer scorer of the opening goal for Sprowston Ladies
Stalham look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Vicki Lubbock putting the ball out wide right for Cursons holds off her marker getting down the line before firing in a cross high towards the near post, is headed clear by Sprowston centreback Beth Cornwall, Stalham pressure the ball Amber Mayhew back to Cursons the corner is won, delivered to the top of the area Sprowston get it clear a counter attack is on Hutchin bringing the ball on up the left, Stalham captain Kerry Wright with a vital sliding challenge to win the ball.
Hackney sees the ball into her feet 30 yards out for Sprowston the striker looks to turn and drive towards the area from a central position strong on the ball, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor goes with her putting the the challenge inside the box, the ball deflected inside Hackney looks to get after it shoot, O’Connor’s centreback partner Meale gets there first to clear the ball. Sprowston are enjoying more of the ball inside the Stalham half but for all their pressing are finding it difficult to get around the back 4. Hackney looks to take on both Stalham centrebacks once again the door is closed in front of her as both slide in to tackle.
Thea Hackney attacking for Sprowston Ladies
Pushed back by their opponents Stalham have started the match slowly unable to get their attackers into the game. From a defensive clearance Sophie Lubbock picks up the ball on halfway looks to get clear and run at the Sprowston box is closed down and tackled by Calista Tink. Vicki Lubbock tries her luck from a long way out her attempt not troubling goalkeeper Megan Lightfoot. Leyer pressing the back high up the pitch, Meale’s back pass to goalkeeper Katie Clarke a little short has Hutchin interested she gives chase, Clarke slides in bravely at the top of her area they collide the ball back deflected away for the corner.
Sophie Lubbock looking to attack for Stalham Town Ladies
Both sides make a change Chloe Yarham coming on for Stalham replacing Wright. Paige Barnard joining the action for Sprowston. Getting plenty of bodies forwards Sprowston have the ball on the left played inside to Hackney top of the area holds the ball up well looks to turn and strike, Amber Mayhew getting back for Stalham is their to close her down put in the tackle gets the ball clear. Russell into Leyer central the striker 25 yards out jinks left then right before striking the shot takes a deflection off Meale taking it wide for the corner kick.
Clarke recovers well from an initial poor kick out of her area not getting the height or distance on the ball it’s Hackney who wins the header 25 yards out knocking the ball back in towards the area Leyer is after it, Clarke to getting to the edge of her area to intercept the bouncing ball gets a strong fist on it to send it up field. Sprowston continue to have the momentum the ball with Pettifer left side put infield Smith on for Hutchin right side she takes on the shot from 20 yards out puts the ball into the side netting. Another switch for Sprowston Georgia Cushion coming on for Hackney.
Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell tackled by Stalham’s Vicki Lubbock
Hestitation between the Stalham centrebacks inside the box almost gifts Sprowston a 2nd goal as both leave it Hutchin steals in between them right of goal 10 yards out more brave goalkeeping from Clarke diving in at the attackers feet the shot blocked however the deflection sees the ball spin on towards goal, a Stalham defender gets back to hook the ball clear of the goal. Up the other end Cursons and Sophie Lubbock aren’t seeing much of the ball can make little impact in attack, the latter tries the flick on for Cursons 25 yards out, Cornwall reading it gets to the ball first to clear.
GOAL! Into the last 3 minutes of the 1st half and Sprowston double their lead. Attacking down the right plenty getting forwards again Stalham defending their box the cross is cut back inside towards Russell inside the D, uncharacteristically as has been the norm for 41 minutes Stalham don’t advance to close her down as Russell shifts the ball to her right to open up the angle and sends her shot curling wide of the diving Clarke into the back of the net 0-2.
GOAL! Straight from the restart Stalham lose possession of the ball it is sent forwards Leyer racing clear behind the home defence reaches the ball before Clarke racing out of her area can reach in the striker knocking the ball past the keeper and on into the empty net to make it 0-3 a hammer blow for Stalham just before the half-time whistle.
Sprowston Ladies, Victoria Leyer
Half-time Stalham Town Ladies 0-3 Sprowston Ladies
An excellent end to a dominant 1st half from Sprowston Ladies scoring inside the opening 7 minutes then 2 goals late in the half putting them in control. Have been able to push bodies forwards keeping Stalham pinned back inside their own half. The back four has worked hard for Stalham preventing crosses and players have gone with runners for the whole just unable to get the ball up to their own attackers to put their mark on the game. Two late goals a hammer blow especially the 3rd alot of work to do if they want to get back into the match 2nd half.
The wind has picked up noticeably and gotten a lot colder too, The sun lower in the sky too will be Stalham’s problem 2nd half. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway. Hutchin is off at the start of the 2nd half for the visitors Barnard now operating on the right in an advanced position with Jade Mundford at right back. Wright is back on in the centre for Stalham replacing Yarham. A quiet start to the 2nd half Burr-Walpole has taken a knock to the back and needs to come off, Yarham returned to the action.
Stalham Town Ladies, Kerry Wright tackled by Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell
Pettifer is upended looking to bring the ball through the middle a free kick at the top of the centre circle for Sprowston the centreback go forwards the ball delivered into Tink to the left of the D looks to turn is closely marked by O’Connor the ball won. Barnard is sent away on the right Bunstead going to ground tackles well preventing the cross. Pettifer bringing the ball on down the left this time puts an inviting cross into the six yard box, Leyer throws her head at the ball gets a touch Clarke at close range makes a great save to keep the ball out adjusting well as she’d started to move to her right a corner is awarded from the left the ball is cleared up field, Sophie Lubbock with Cursons get the ball up towards right corner of the box Lubbock with a hopefully cross no one fro Stalham in their to challenge for the ball.
GOAL! Mayhew has made some good forward runs early in the 2nd half for Stalham looking to win the ball higher up the pitch pressing on the left side over halfway wins the ball and brings it on taking it toward the byline holds it up well allowing teammates time to get forwards one of those being Vicki Lubbock getting into the area left of the six yard box, the angle is against her a Mayhew squeezes the pass into her feet the midfielder turns well and sweeps the ball up into the air across the face of goal to drop over the line at the far post 1-3.
Vicki Lubbock pulls it back to 3-1 for Stalham Town Ladies
The goal giving Stalham a little bit of confidence they get the possession of the ball from the restart Wright onto Bunstead picking out Mayhew finding space left side again driving on she fires her cross into the side netting. Sophie Lubbock has the ball takes on the shot from 25 yards out her low drive straight at Lightfoot the keeper gathering cleanly. With Mayhew and Vicki Lubbock getting forwards more Stalham look more of a threat.
GOAL! Just as the home side are starting to get some momentum in attack however Sprowston get up the other end and restore their 3 goal lead and great strike from Pettifer on the left as she picks up the ball and taking it on lets fly from 25 out her bouncing shot angling wide across the goalkeeper into the far corner for her 2nd of the game to make it 1-4.
Both Hackney and Hutchin return to the pitch for Sprowston. The visitors spring a counter attack from a Stalham corner the ball played long on the right for Hutchin to chase squares her cross along the top of the area Hackney positioned left of the D turns into the shot sees the strike angle away from the far post Clarke coming to gather. Megan Bonham comes for for Stalham. More changes for the home side with Wright and Meale coming off, Burr-Walpole back on along with striker Abbie Charlton.
A scooped shot from Hackney outside the area as the ball is worked into her from a throw on the left side, Clarke is right behind it the ball dropping safely into her gloves. Bunstead has had a sold game for Stalham at left back shoulder to shoulder with Hutchin as the winger looks to find a way in behind the cross is again denied.
GOAL! Sprowston further extend their lead this time Hutchin with the ball played into her on the right knocks it on for Leyer running in behind she plays the cross into the Stalham area is knocked outside into the path of Russell left of the D, 20 yards out she sends a thunderbolt racing into the back of the net to make it 1-5.
2 goals in the game for Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Russell
A fantastic save from Clarke keeps Stalham from going further behind the defence pushed up Leyer nips in to steal the ball runs on into the box, Clarke stays big inside her six yard box as the striker closes her down Leyer looks to slot the ball wide of the keeper instead plays it straight at Clarke who makes a great stop with her feet the ball deflected out to the left the goalkeeper rushes after it colliding with Pettifer, is down needs treatment but after a pause in play is okay to continue.
Sprowston get the ball forwards right side a viscous cross is whipped into the area, Clarke comes to punch is impeded by her own player misses it, drops for Pettifer far post to strike on the volley catches it wrong the ball screws wide away from goal. Into the latter stages of the game Sprowston in control of the ball the cross from the left into Hackney headed on for Hutchin to her right diverts the ball goalwards Clarke down smartly at her near post touches the ball wide for the corner.
Into stoppage time Sprowston with one last attack Hutchin on the right lays the ball on for Smith going past her her cross low into the box finds Hackney a turn and shot drags the ball wide of the near post.
Full time Stalham Town Ladies 1-5 Sprowston Ladies
A 5-1 win for Sprowston Ladies keeping up their unbeaten start to the season and seeing them stay top of Division One a point clear of Thorpe United Ladies who beat North Walsham Angels Ladies 3-1. A great performance from the visitors getting an early goal and dominating the ball for much of the game scoring 5 goals. A below par performance from Stalham defended well on the whole but pushed back by their opponents couldn’t get the ball into their attackers conceding 2 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half doing the damage going in at 1 nil or even 2 nil at the break might have made all the difference getting a goal back early 2nd half Sprowston were quick to respond. Nevertheless Stalham have enjoyed a good start to the season themselves and will loo to bounce back.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Another tough one today to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a good all round team performance from Sprowston this afternoon, difficult conditions to play in scoring some quality goals and creating plenty of chances. Picking one out however I have gone for midfielder Rebecca Russell in the heart of the action not often giving the ball away and setting up attacks ahead of her two well taken goals to her name too.
Good to get back into it after a two week layoff even if it was freezing, better get used to that I suppose. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line ups today and Stalham for the cup of tea.
One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One saw a change at the top of the table as St Albans Ladies continued their excellent start to the season with a 4th straight league win at home to 3rd placed Garston Ladies on Sunday to move onto 12 points 2 clear of Northwood Ladies. Chloe Reeves scoring in the 1st half for St Albans added a 2nd with 15 minutes left, Sophie Lawrence scoring on 68 minutes, Sophie Monahan making t 4-1 in the last 5 minutes. Emma Trill scorn for Garston Ladies. Already a huge gap opening up between the top two and the rest of the division 7 points between 3rd and 2nd.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
New leaders in Beds & Herts Division Two this Sunday with Royston Town Ladies Reserves winning their 3rd match of the season to take over top spot in what looks likely to be a hotly contested league. At home taking on Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues, Megan Evers scoring twice for Royston. Aimee Holden, Harriet Smith and Kelly Yarwood also claiming a goal each in a 5-2 victory. Madison Drewett and Bethany Young scoring for Woburn & Wavendon.
Hitchin Town Ladies are also big movers in the league climbing from 6th up to 2nd spot in Division Two with a home win against Evergreen Eagles on Sunday. A brace for Jessica McNamara with Crawley Green Ladies last season along with a goal for Emma Chaffey enough to cancel out Samantha Takis’ brace for Evergreen Eagles in a 3-2 win.
A 1st league win of the season for Letchworth Garden City Eagles in Beds & Herts Division Two at the weekend at home ran out 5-1 winners over Hitchin Belles their goalscorer Charlotte Peters.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
With leaders Welwyn Pegasus Azures not in action this weekend it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bedford Ladies Development to close the gap at the top as they took on Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets at home on Sunday. The hosted claimed all 3 points but were made to work for it by the opponents in a high scoring match. Joanne Makin giving Bedford an early 5th minute lead, Kayla Gunn added a 2nd goal on 36 minutes. 2-0 the lead at half time an eventful 2nd half followed. within 10 minutes of the 2nd half kicking off Woburn & Wavendon scored twice to level the score, Alexandra Miller and Emma Saunders with the goals. A quickfire response from Bedford saw them restore their 2 goal lead Cayleigh Jackson grabbing both goals a couple of minutes apart on the hour. Charlotte Demmon got it back to 4-3 for Woburn & Wavendon in the last 15 minutes. Makin with her 2nd of the game in the 90th minute securing the 3 points with a 5-3 win.
A 2nd successive 2-1 win in the league sees 3rd placed Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies keep up their 100% winning start to the season 3 from 3 with victory over bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies on Sunday. Mandy Morgan with the goal for Potters Bar United who remain without a point after 5 played in the league have scored in all 5 games however.
Evergreen Ladies won their 2nd league match of the season on Sunday to climb up to 4th in the Division Three table at home to Shefford Town & Campton Ladies, Samantha Jackson and Daniella McMullin both getting two goals each in a 4-1 win. Sarah King on target for Shefford Town.
Premier Division leaders Hatfield Peveral Ladies saw their excellent start to the season come to an end on Sunday as they lost for the 1st time this season away to Lawford Ladies. Travelling with a side struggling with injury Hatfield Peveral came up against an in form Lawford scoring plenty of goals early in the season, Daisy Canny top scorer early on took her tally to 11 goals from 4 appearances with a brace in the match. Jasmine Cox looking to catch her up going one better in the game netting a hat-trick their was a goal too for ex-Colchester Town Ladies captain, Georgia Box on her 1st appearance for the club in a 6-1 win. Yasmin Cowley with the 1st half goal for Hatfield Peveral.
That defeat for Hatfield Peveral Ladies sees new leaders take over at the top of the Premier Division with Collier Row Tigers keeping up their 100% winning start away from home against Runwell Sports Ladies. A good contest saw the two sides drawing 2-2 at the break, Frances Murphy and Bobbi Cubberly scoring for the hosts. Collier Row Tigers getting the better of the 2nd half scoring twice more to make it 4 wins from 4 with a 4-2 victory to go top on goal difference. Emily Dempsey scoring a brace with Lauren Bunton and Natalie Oxby both getting a goal a piece.
Frontiers Ladies are 2 points behind the leading pair in the Premier Division as they kept up their unbeaten start to the season at home on Sunday taking on Eastern Avenue who had won their opening 2 games in the league. Hannah Warner getting a goal for Eastern Avenue 1st half, Frontiers Ladies were in control of the game going into the dressing room at half-time with a 4-1 lead. Sharon Ferguson scoring a hat-trick in the game further goals were added 2nd half with Kay Foy, Jill Bartholomew and Hayley King all getting a goal each in a 6-1 win.
Corringham Cosmos also keep up the pressure on the league leaders as they recorded a 3rd straight league win at the start of their season. The 4th placed side winning big at home against Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Chloe Sams on fir at the start of the season taking her goal scoring account to a whopping 21 from just 6 appearances as she helped herself to 6 goals at the weekend. Rebecca Gallagher has 11 goals from her 6 appearances so far too as she scored another hat-trick. Michelle Sumpter also scoring in a double figure win the final score 10-1, Casey Lunn netting the goal for Harlow Town Ladies Reserves still in search of their 1st points of the season.
Chigwell Ladies remain bottom of the Premier Division without a point after 6 games played, were hosting Chelmsford City Ladies this Sunday the visitors looking to get back to winning ways after suffering 3 straight defeats in the league. Chigwell are scoring goals but unfortunately conceding more at the other end, Kimmilee Day and Claire Huggins scoring for the home side. Chelmsford City followed up their County Cup win the weekend before with a high scoring result with Tyler Christou hitting a hat-trick in the match. Lisa Overall on her 1st appearance of the season scoring a brace Shannon Hughes and Rosie Coe also scoring a goal each in a 7-2 win.
Essex Women’s Division One
A good weekend for Hullbridge Sports Ladies in Essex Women’s Division One as they win at home against one of their early challenges for the title and see another lose to go 3 points clear at the top of the table with their 5th straight league win at the start of the season. Hosting 3rd placed Leigh Ramblers were 2-1 in front at the break going on to score another in the 2nd half to win 3-1. Karley Knight, Broghan Kelly and Jennifer Lyttle with their goals. Megan Downes with the 1st half strike for Leigh Ramblers.
2nd placed Southend United Ladies were also looking to make it 5 straight wins to start their season at the top of Division One as they travelled to mid-table Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies on Sunday. It was advantage to the home side at half-time as Dagenham & Redbridge led 1-0. Southend United got a goal back 2nd half through Ria Toovey however it wasn’t enough as Dagenham & Redbridge went on to score twice themselves to secure the 3 points with a 3-1 result and end Southend United’s 100% winning start. Pauline Adeyemo scoring twice, one in open play the other from the penalty spot with Ammarah Ali also on target.
Walden Ladies won for the 2nd successive weekend to move up to 4th in the Essex Women’s Division One table on their travels taking on Billericay Town Ladies Reserves, Kim Jeffery was on target with all 4 of their goals in a 4-1 win. Franziska Beck scoring the goal for Billericay.
Brentwood Town Ladies came back from conceding an early goal to record a comfortable win at home to Alresford Colne Rangers. Christina Cash putting the visitors into the lead Brentwood came back strongly. Emma Mackie scoring twice their were goals too for Carla Rose, Chloe Hawkins, Paida Dedza and Ashley Debnam in a 6-1 win Brentwood’s 2nd win of the season moving them up to 7th in the table.
Benfleet Villa Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves still in search of their 1st point of the season. Jameela Walker scoring twice for the hosts Benfleet Villa claimed their 2nd point of the season with Chelmsford City scoring twice themselves, Angela Holden and Rebecca Lucy with the goals to see the visitors claim their 1st point of the season in a 2-2 draw.
A handful of matches played across the counties 3 leagues this Sunday. Two games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. With league leaders Netherton United Ladies not in action 2nd placed Newmarket Town Ladies were looking to close the gap by continuing their 100% winning start to the season at home were taking on March Town United Ladies. The visitors held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time. Laura Bailey levelled the scores at 1-1 soon after the start of the 2nd half. Once again March retook the lead on 54 minutes, Newmarket soon responding once again Lauren Deller striking home the goal to make it 2-2 on 58 minutes. The two sides finishing the game all square taking a point home each. Charley Miller and Shannon Shaw scoring for March Town United.
The bottom two met in the Premiership both looking for their 1st points of the season on Sunday, Park Ladies hosting Cambridge University Women. A good effort from Park in a close game frustrated at the final whistle as they left empty handed Cambridge University getting their 1st 3 points on the board winning the contest by a single goal to climb off the bottom scored by Linn Moystead.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
In the one game played in the Cambridgeshire Championship North this weekend two more sides also met looking for their 1st points of the season, Orton Rangers Ladies hosting Spalding United Ladies. It was the visitors who were celebrating come the final whistle as they won comfortably to claim all 3 points. Rebecca Navarrete scoring twice their was also a goal each for Hannah Dennis, Stephanie Starr, Lita Abelite and Sharn Thompson in a 6-1 victory which lifts Spalding United into 5th position.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Championship South this Sunday. Fulbourn Bluebirds beaten by leaders Histon Ladies Reserves last weekend closed the gap back to 3 points with a home win against Isleham United Ladies. Marie Stubbings scoring a double hat-trick for Fulbourn as they ran out 6-2 winners to claim the 3 points. Laura Todd and Shona Kelly on the scoresheet for Isleham United.
League newcomers Burwell Tigers have found life in the Championship South tough going early doors 2 losses in the league along with a heavy defeat in the cup they themselves scored big at the weekend at home to get their 1st win of the season were at home taking on Milton Ladies playing their 1st league game of the season a new look side this season with several former Milton players now part of the Histon Ladies Reserves set-up. Emily Smith netting a hat-trick for Burwell, both Vicky Murrell and Samantha Freeman scoring a brace. Lauren Rose, Ellie Taylor and Emma Walters all claiming a goal each in a 10-1 win. Lauren Lock with the goal for Milton.
4 games played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this weekend and with league toppers East Bergholt United Ladies not in action it was an opportunity for the rest to close the gap. Brantham Athletic Lades did just that away to Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday as they made it 3 wins from 3 to start the season. Goals from Lucy Dunnett, Kirsten Hutchings and Jodie Sharp securing the 3 points with a 3-0 win.
Bacton United Ladies move up from 4th into 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division beating newcomers AFC Kesgrave Ladies away from home their 1st loss of the season after winning their opening 2 league games. Francesca Rainbird scoring a hat-trick in a 3-1 win for Bacton United. Ashley Bustos scoring the 2nd half goal for AFC Kesgrave.
A 2nd win of the season for Leiston St Margarets Ladies and a big one to away to league newcomers Hadleigh United Ladies. Fielding the bare 11 it was the home side who started the better however striker Isabel Chaplin running clear to attack the Leiston defence regaining possession inside the D and curling a shot into the top corner to make it 1-0. Leiston soon regained momentum and a spell of 3 quick goals midway through the half put them in control of the game. Two more goals before the half-time whistle saw them lead 5-1. A repeat of the goals 2nd half early on with 3 more scored in quick succession. An 8-1 one lead Hadleigh kept going but with Leiston having the extra legs to bring off the bench it was they who added the goals 2 more scored to win the game 10-1 and climb into 5th.
Walsham Le Willows Ladies having finally started their season last weekend in the County Cup were getting their league campaign underway this weekend away to Ipswich Athletic Ladies. Amongst the favourites to win the Suffolk Women’s Division title they started well with a comfortable result beating their opponents 6-0 to take the 3 points home.
A handful of league fixtures across Norfolk this Sunday with just the one game taking place on Norfolk Women’s Division One a 3rd straight league win for Thorpe United Ladies taking them up into 2nd place in the table a point behind leaders Sprowston Ladies. Away to bottom side Long Stratton Ladies, a hat-trick from Shanice Sutton helping Thorpe to the 3 points with a 5-1 win. Katie Knights scoring for Long Stratton.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
FC Sprowston Ladies made it 4 wins from 4 at the start of the season to keep the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday at home to Costessey Sports Ladies a close run result however as the home side edged the win by 3 goals to 2. Keri Boorman, Joanna Davey and Rebecca Kirby the goalscorers.
Beccles Town Ladies keep up the pressure on the league leaders as they two won for the 4th time this season away from home against fellow new comers to Division Two, Gorleston Rangers Ladies a 7 goal thriller between the sides two a much improved performance for Gorleston Rangers who had suffered heavy defeats in their previous two league games. A 1-0 lead for Beccles Town at half-time Gorleston Rangers scoring 3 goals in the 2nd half, Chloe Bailey, Lauren Dennis and Amy Durdin putting the home side 3-2 up with 10 minutes left Beccles Town scoring twice to win the game 4-3 a brace for Jordan Duke along with goals for Lucy Robbens and Grace Storey keeping up their great start to the season.
Also maintaining their unbeaten start to the season are Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies climbing up from 4th to 3rd in the Division Two table in the process with a big win at home against Toftwood United Ladies. Leading 4-0 at half-time Kirkley & Pakefield went on to score 6 more 2nd half to win the game 10-0 the goals shared amongst the sides, goalkeeper Shauna Brunton-O’Neill scoring two of those goals. A brace to for Zalonia Warford, the other goalscorers, Sue Lyn King, Sophie Martin, Peta Belson, Monika Ashcroft and Paige Baker. A 2nd successive 10-0 loss for Toftwood to start the season however an improved performance as they a bedding in several new faces having almost folded before the start of the season.
Well unfortunately it’s bad news to start another Round-Up for the 2nd week running following the news Sandy Ladies from Beds & Herts Division One has folded after 14 season’s another side made the announcement this weekend with ERWFL Premier Division side Colchester Town Ladies folding their senior side. Struggling for players were league cup winners just 2 season’s ago a tough call as ever for any side to make wish everyone involved with the club all the best for the future.
Colchester Town Ladies celebrating winning the ERWFL League Cup in 2016
ERWFL Premier Division
Colchester Town Ladies folding will see some adjustment to the ERWFL Premier Division table. Leaders Writtle Ladies were at home on Sunday looking to make it 7 seven straight league wins keep ahead of rivals Billericay Town Ladies. Were hosting Brentwood Town Ladies. Courtney Clarke and Amy Simmons scoring for Writtle Ladies, Brentwood scoring twice too Leah Cowan and Georgia Holdaway on target. The points shared Brentwood holding on after going down to 10 players for over 45 minutes after a nasty injury to Cowan suffering ligament damage and a possible fractured ankle. Wishing her all the best for a speedy recovery.
Writtle dropping points at the top of the table didn’t cost them however as they are no the only unbeaten side in the ERWFL Premier Division. 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies seeing their 100% winning start in the league come to an end away to Cambridge City Ladies who have turned their form around in the league with a 3rd straight league win all by 2 goals to one to push on it 4th spot in the table. Goals from Charlotte Gillies and Bella Simmons enough to take all 3 points with Paris Smith getting the goal for Billericay Town.
AFC Dunstable Ladies are another side in the ERWFL Premier Division rediscovering their form after a shaky start to the season as low as 10th at one point a 2nd straight league win at home to Lowestoft Town Ladies sees them keep hold of 5th position. Charlotte South netting a hat-trick at Creasey park there were goals too for Danielle Carty, Beth Stanton and Claudia Attenborough in a 7-1 win. Nicole Sheldrake with the Lowestoft goal.
Colney Heath Ladies travelled up to Suffolk at the weekend to play AFC Sudbury Ladies. A goal from Holly Sheridan saw them leading the contest 1-0 at half-time. Couldn’t hold onto the lead 2nd half with Sudbury levelling the scores from a corner kick Rebecca Chandler putting the ball into the back of the net to see the sides take a point each.
In the end there were points dropped for all three sides in the top 3 of the ERWFL Premier Division with Acle United Ladies having to settle for a point at home to Royston Town Ladies on Sunday. A bright start Acle taking a first half lead with new signing Naomi Cooper from Nottingham Forest coming off the bench to send the ball past the Royston keeper on 35 minutes to give the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break. Becky Shephard levelled the scores for Royston early in the 2nd half. A battling performance seeing them keep Acle from getting back in front to take a point home from the game needed too with Colchester folding they are occupying bottom spot.
ERWFL Division One North
ERWFL Division One North leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies made the long trip down to Essex to face bottom side Silver End United Ladies with just 10 players available. Despite this a hard working and spirited performance saw them come away with all 3 points a double from Vikttorija Burkauskaite securing a narrow 2-1 win. Lindsey Cowell netting the goal for Silver End.
The win made all the better as the 3 points extend King’s Lynn’s lead at the top of the table to 4 points after 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers Ladies lost heavily away to Wymondham Town Ladies finally returning to league action after their recent cup distractions. The two sides drawing 2-2 at Ipswich Wanderers on the opening game of the season a different story this time around, Ipswich Wanderers affected by injuries Wymondham Town are in great form scoring plenty of goals and that continued, Laura Nicholls top scoring with 5 in the match, their were hat-tricks too for Mollie O’Callaghan and Nadine Basson the latter starting on the bench. Alice Collins and Brooke Moreno also getting on the scoresheet in a 13-2 win. Jade Horne and Michelle Taylor-Allum scoring the goals for Ipswich Wanderers.
ERWFL Division One South
6 straight league wins now for Stevenage Ladies Reserves in ERWFL Division One South sees them open up an huge 9 point lead at the top of the table and yet to concede a goal in those 6 games either as their goals scored reached 40! At home at the weekend taking on Harlow Town Ladies who they had beaten 1-0 at the Harlow Arena earlier in the season a late winning goal finally ending Harlow’s 2 season winning run. Once again it was a single goal that took all 3 points this Sunday, Hayley Wood Thompson scoring for Stevenage to keep up their 100% winning start to the season.
Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies move above Harlow Town Ladies into 2nd in the ERWFL Division One South table after they to won at the weekend to maintain their own 100% winning start to the league albeit having played 3 matches as a pose to Stevenage’s 6. At home to Essex rivals Hutton Ladies for the 3rd time in their last 4 games the previous two in cup competitions narrowly winning both they won for a 3rd time coming back from being 2-1 down at the break goals from Sophie Dowman, Eloise Ives and Abbie Simmonds seeing them win the 2nd half 4-2.
A 1st league win of the season takes Hertford Town Ladies off the bottom of the ERWFL Division One South as they won away to Bishops Stortford Ladies having lost to their Hertfordshire rivals 3 times already this season in league and cup. A brace for Donna Watts sealing a 2-0 win.
A limited programme of fixtures in the FAWPL this weekend with several sides involved in County Cup action. Two ties taking place in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Cup with another Chichester City Ladies away tie against Plymouth Argyle Ladies falling foul of the weather with Storm Brian arriving on the South West Coast. Both ties played saw FAWPL South East Division One sides at home to Southern Division opposition.
A good test at home for Ipswich Town Ladies in 4th place in South East Division One at home to C&K Basildon Ladies 4th in the Southern Division both sides enjoying a good start to the season. It was Ipswich Town who went on to cause a cup upset by knocking out their higher league opponents a single goal enough to win the game scored by Zoe Cossey chipping the goalkeeper from outside the box.
Stevenage Ladies were hosting South Division side Coventry United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup. Alison Hall putting Coventry into an 11th minute lead, Stevenage keeping the scoreline down to just a single goal at the break. Helen Dermody doubling Coventry’s advantage 10 minutes into the 2nd half. It was enough to see Coventry advance through to the next round.
FAWPL Plate
3 ties featuring sides from the FAWPL Southern and South East Division One in the 1st Round of the FAWPL Plate played this Sunday. Luton Town Ladies made the trip down to Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies. It was the South East Division One side who were leading their higher league opponents at half-time a 12th minute goal from Nicola Henman putting Luton 1-0 up. Gillingham getting themselves back into the game awarded a penalty in the 70th minute was duly dispatched by Danielle Farmer to make it 1-1. That’s the way it finished after 90 minutes the tie heading into extra-time. Two quick goals from Henman and then Jess McKay put Luton Town 3-1 up in the extra period. Again Gillingham were to come back an own goal ad then a strike from new signing Kylie Manktelow making it 3-3. It was Luton who would have the final say with Henman scoring her 3rd of the match late in the 2nd period of extra-time to see Luton with 4-3 to progress in the competition.
An all South East Division One clash in the FAWPL Plate 1st Round saw Milton Keynes Dons Ladies at home to Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The two sides had shared the points in the points in the league last weekend with a 1-1 draw at Denham. Another close contest saw the sides go into the dressing rooms goalless at the half-time whistle. The game was heading into the last 15 minutes in the 2nd half before a goal was breached. Amelia Hazard the scorer putting Milton Keynes Dons ahead. A 2nd goal followed Kerry Newman on target to secure the win for the visitors and see Milton Keynes Dons progress.
At last a much welcomed victory for Swindon Town Ladies at the weekend a plenty of goals too for the side bottom of the FAWPL Southern Division at home to South West Division One side Maidenhead United Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Plate. Swindon getting the 1st goal on 36 minutes Annie Martin finding the back of the net. Mia Mugford added a 2nd goal for Swindon a minute before half-time. Martin extending the lead to 3-0 just 4 minutes into the 2nd half with her 2nd of the game. Lucy Casey pulling a goal back on 57 minutes for Maidenhead. Swindon then went on to take full control of the tie with a devastating spell of 3 goals in 6 minutes. Mugford adding her 2nd of the game on 59 minutes to make it 4-1 quickly followed by goals for Emily Arrell and newly arrived substitute Natalie Jo Goodright to make it 6-1. Martin going on to complete her hat-trick on injury time to see Swindon advance in the competition with a 7-1 win, great for the confidence they will be hoping to take this on into the league.
FAWPL South East Division One
Just the one league game played across the 2 divisions this Sunday in South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC 7th in the table were hosting league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A battling 1st half saw AFC Wimbledon take the lead late on Rebecca Sargent with her 8th goal of the season putting them in front. Was more of the same 2nd half both sides creating chances but Cambridge weren’t able to find an equalising goal to take anything from the game as AFC Wimbledon made it 7 straight league wins to open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table.
