County Cup weekend in Suffolk with 8 2nd Round ties scheduled to be played. As it was 2 ties weren’t played. Leiston St Margarets Ladies awarded the home win against Lowestoft Town Ladies who sadly folded a coupe of weeks ago. Holders Ipswich Town Ladies were due to play away to Suffolk Women’s Division side Hadleigh United Ladies currently struggling for numbers the tie was awarded to the away side.
Elsewhere their were some big scores and plenty of goals. It was a close game in the only all Suffolk Women’s Division clash the local derby between East Bergholt United Ladies at home to Brantham Athletic Ladies enjoying a good rivalry already this season twice Brantham came back from behind to see the scores all square at 3-3 come the final whistle the game heading into penalties Brantham coming out on top in the shoot-out winning 4-3 to progress to the quarter finals.
Bacton United Ladies were at home in the 2nd Round of the County Cup taking on Newmarket Town Ladies, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side coming out on top winning the game 4-0 to advance to the quarter finals, Jordanne Sillitoe netting twice with a goal each for Lauren Deller and Chloe Slater.
Not such good news for Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves side as they were beaten heavily at home by Bungay Town Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup the Norfolk Division One side getting off to a great start goals from Samantha Walker and Emily Leach. Walker going on to score 4 goals in the match with Leach completing a hat-trick too. Selina Rowland also netting 4 times in the game with a goal too for Teo Ille wrapping up a 12-0 win, Bungay Town reaching the quarter finals with ease.
12-0 wasn’t the highest scoreline of the day however as Ipswich Town Ladies Development last season’s Suffolk Women’s Division Champions now plying their trade in the ERWFL Division One North proved too strong for home side Ipswich Athletic Youth Ladies. Goalless for the opening 20 minutes Ipswich Development took the lead in the 22nd minute, Roxanne Middle finding the back of the net. 5 minutes later 2 quickfire goals from Elysia Young and Jennifer Purbrook put Ipswich Development 3-0 up, Taylor Cooke getting in on the goal scoring to make it 4-0. Purbrook with 2 goals in 3 minutes in the final 5 minutes of the half wrapping up her hat-trick. The half-time score 7-0 with Grace Bowman adding a goal in the 44th minute. The goals continued to flow 2nd half Emily Steward introduced at the break had a hat-trick of her own by the 61st minute in between Middle getting her 2nd of the match. Young adding 2 more goals to her tally of 5 for the match, Bowman adding her 2nd in the final 10 minutes 14-0 the final score to see Ipswich Development into the quarter finals.
ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies were away to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup. Megan Partridge scoring a hat-trick for the visitors the rest of their goals shared out amongst, Charlotte Churchman, Mia Etheridge, new signing Amy Evans, Charlene Roach, Marie Seabrook and Stacey Teager in a 9-0 win over the Norfolk Division Two side.
Ipswich Wanderers Ladies are also through to the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup with a 9-0 home win over Suffolk Women’s Division side, AFC Kesgrave Ladies. Lina Hagib and Laura Tuley both scoring hat-tricks in the game. Jessica Taylor-Allum also scoring a brace with Claire Turnbull also getting a goal.
A weekend dedicated to cup football in Norfolk there was one tie played in the Ladies League Cup postponed last Sunday in the 2nd Round, Long Stratton Ladies hosting last season’s beaten finalists Thorpe United Ladies. All the goals coming in the 1st half Thorpe United progressing with a 5-1 victory, Shanice Sutton scoring a hat-trick. There were goals to for Alice Ford and Laura Hedtke. Sophie Rose on target for Long Stratton. A home tie against Fakenham Town Ladies awaits in the quarter finals for Thorpe United.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
This Sunday saw the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup being played. 7 ties scheduled with Fakenham Town Ladies receiving a bye through to the quarter finals. As it was 3 sides progressed without kicking a ball all from Norfolk Division One, Aylsham Ladies, North Walsham Angels Ladies and Sprowston Ladies leaving just the 4 matches to be played.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies leading ERWFL Division One North play all of their home County Cup matches at The Walks and had been handed a plum tie against Norwich City Ladies the FAWPL South East Division One side returning to the competition after a 3 season absence. Norwich started brightly however it was King’s Lynn who went on to open the scoring captain Becky Russell putting the ball in from the angle after King’s Lynn had won a corner. Working had as a unit with Norwich trying to find an equaliser King’s Lynn held the narrow advantage heading into half-time.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell with Norwich’s Paige Shorten
A competitve match viewed by over a hundred spectators King’s Lynn kept Norwich a bay 2nd half then midway through, Tiffany Forshaw was put through on goal into the box riding the challenge from goalkeeper Fiona Coombes sliding in to try and stop her Forshaw controlled the ball on the byline and sent it in across goal to make it 2-0 to the hosts. 15 minutes left and with Norwich chasing a goal Forshaw was in behind once more, Norwich captain Grace Parker diving in from behind to try and stop her bringing the striker down denying a clear goals coring opportunity was sent off. Despite being down to 10 Norwich did pull a goal back with 5 minutes left Vivian Moyo stabbing the ball in after Aimee Durrant’s shot had struck the crossbar. No last minute nerves from King’s Lynn as they held on to win 2-1 to reach the quarter finals.
Wymondham Town Ladies last season’s beaten finalists are also through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup with a comfortable away win against Norfolk Division One side, Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday. The ERWFL Division One North side 2-0 inside the opening 10 minutes thanks to long distance strikes from Alice Ladbrooke and Betty Fretwell. Laura Nicholls rich vein of scoring form continued with her making it 3-0 just past the half hour. Kayleigh Holloway seeing Wymondham into a 4-0 half-time lead. Two goals early in the 2nd half saw Nicholls complete her hat-trick. Leah Newcombe made it 7-0 to Wymondham with 15 minutes left. Nicholls having time to find a 4th goal of the afternoon with 7 minutes left the final score 8-0.
Also reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup quarter finals with a comfortable scoreline away from home are Acle United Ladies, the ERWFL Premier Division side taking on Norfolk Division One side Gorleston FC Ladies at Emerald Park on Sunday. Acle starting strongly took the lead in the 14th minute Grace Birchall making it 1-0 to the visitors. Birchall scoring again 7 minutes later her goal quickly followed by a goal for Megan Todd making in 3-0. Lauren Bullard went on to make it 4-0 to Acle on the half hour. Birchall getting her 3rd for her hat-trick in the 38th minute. A 5-0 lead at half-time two early goals 2nd half from captain Rebecca Burton and another for Birchall saw Acle go on to win 7-0.
In the other 2nd Round match played in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup this weekend, it was an all Norfolk Women’s Division Two clash between Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies at home to Freethorpe Ladies. Bure Valley playing the game for a large period with 10 players nevertheless held Freethorpe to a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes the game heading into extra-time the home side finding a winning goal to reach the quarter finals. Carrie Last with the 1st goal for Bure Valley, Abigail Clark with the goal in extra-time. Keira Squires scoring the goal for Freethorpe.
A limited fixture list in the ERWFL this weekend with several clubs playing County Cup fixtures. There were 3 games played in the Premier Division. For the 3rd league match in a row league leaders Billericay Town Ladies had to settle for a share of the points this time away to Bedford Ladies. New signing Georgia Box scoring for the 2nd successive match for Billericay. Carissa Kaczorowski scoring her 1st goal of the season for the 1st team netting in the 70th minute for Bedford.
A 3-3 draw is becoming a regular scoreline in the ERWFL Premier Division as it features in The Round-Up for the 3rd week running Billericay with the 1st two this weekend it was the turn of Writtle Ladies at home to AFC Dunstable Ladies. Goals for Courtney Clarke, Leanne Stubbings and Sophie Vale, cancelled out by a brace from Danielle Carty and a goal for Charlene Moreton for Dunstable. The point enough to return Writtle to 2nd position 3 points behind Billericay ahead of Cambridge City Ladies on goal difference.
In the 3rd match played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday, Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies were hosting Colney Heath Ladies. Marie Barker scoring twice along with a goal for Georgia Holdaway securing a 3-0 win for Brentwood to move them further away from the bottom of the table.
ERWFL Division One North
One game played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday the derby match between Cambridge United WFC Reserves at home to Histon Ladies the 3rd time the pair have met in the league this season the previous two meetings going Histon’s way. It was the away side who took the early lead, Katie Seagrave making it 1-0 to Histon in the 4th minute. Cambridge were quick to respond however levelling the scores in the 8th minute striker Ebony Rule on target. 5 minutes before half-time Seagrave with her 2nd of the game for Histon made it 2-1. Again Cambridge came back this time it was Rule’s turn to score her 2nd of the game 5 minutes into the 2nd half that was how it remained both sides taking away a point enough to return Histon to 3rd position over Wymondham. 4 points from their last 2 games Cambridge pulling clear of the bottom 2.
ERWFL Division One South
An extra-time defeat last weekend in the County Cup for Stevenage Ladies Reserves the ERWFL Division One South leaders returned to league action this Sunday away to the same opponents, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies looking to return to winning ways and keep up their 100% winning start to the season. Did so comfortably with both Nicole Emmings and Daniela Martucci both scoring a brace along with a goal for Sherrie Evans in a 5-0 win to make it 8 wins from 8 taking their goals scored tally to 45 and keep their goals conceded tally on ZERO!
The football action this Sunday comes from The Walks, home of King’s Lynn Town FC, the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with King’s Lynn Town Ladies taking on higher league opponents Norwich City Ladies.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies getting the opportunity to play at The Walks again with all their home county cup ties played there. Football on a high in the town with all 3 King’s Lynn sides currently doing well in their respective leagues. The ladies side making the step up from county to regional league this season are doing fantastically well in the ERWFL Division One North on a great run of form, 4 points clear at the top of the table with just the one defeat so far in the league. A bye in the first round of the County Cup a tough draw and test in the 2nd round taking on Norwich City Ladies playing 2 leagues higher.
Norwich City Ladies return to the County Cup after a 3 season absence the FAWPL South East Division One side previously dominating the County Cup, a leading force in women’s football in Norfolk for a long time. Battling at the wrong end of the table the County Cup a welcome distraction and a chance for Norwich to pursue silverware. The footballing map in Norfolk has changed a little in their absence from the County Cup, 3 potential challengers to their dominance emerging, all 3 plying their trade in the ERWFL, all ambitious, Acle United Ladies, Wymondham Town Ladies and King’s Lynn Town Ladies themselves all wanting to reach the FAWPL themselves.
With the current County Cup holders, Thorpe United Ladies knocked out of the competition in the previous round by Wymondham Town Ladies, the County Cup is there for the taking.
The Walks the venue the large mainstand over looking a large pitch offering plenty of width. Seen plenty of action a little cut up, half the pitch shaded by the mainstand, a chilly but bright afternoon, no wind, great conditions for the match. The cafe open offering hot and cold drinks, with a barbecue outside that would tempt me at half-time.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Vikttorija Burkauskaite, Jessica Evans, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Charlotte Griffith, Becky Russell (C), Shelley Woods, Tiffany Forshaw, Georgia Reardon & Jade Kelly. Subs – Elle Bocking, Olivia Baker & Michelle Stewart-Sheen.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Fiona Coombes, Millie Daviss, Summer Ward, Emily Moerkerk, Grace Parker (C), Sasha Diston, Paige Shorten, Aimee Durrant, Vivian Moyo, Natasha Snelling & Charlotte Broad. Subs – Eliza McDonald & Chelsea Garrett.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Handshakes before the match.
It’s Norwich to get the match underway playing in their traditional yellow and green kit with King’s Lynn in their home colours, blue shirts with yellow sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Norwich press into the King’s Lynn half, Vivian Moyo a summer signing for Norwich from Norfolk Division One Champion’s, Thorpe United Ladies winning her side a throw deep in the King’s Lynn half the ball worked in towards the top of the area cleared by Kin’g Lynn’s Shanice Burch.
The home side look to play the ball out from the back, Norwich push bodies up pressure the ball, Sasha Diston returning to Norwich after a spell in Suffolk with AFC Sudbury Ladies nips in to win the ball off Albany Hodgson plays the long diagonal pass out to the right with Aimee Durrant on the move looking to get in behind the home defence is fouled as she crosses the ball into the area a free kick awarded to Norwich outside the box, midfielder Paige Shorten on the set piece looks to curl the ball in towards goal puts her effort over the bar.
A good start from Norwich getting players forwards from midfield to support the attackers, Shorten winning the tackle plays the ball into Charlotte Broad ahead of her outside the area wraps her foot around the ball playing it out to the right with Durrant on the move again, just a little early this time the offside flag up against her. King’s Lynn play the ball into captain Becky Russell she lays it forwards for Shelley Woods up the left keeping the ball in play knocks it inside for Jade Kelly up front looking to get into the area left of goal, Norwich’s Emily Moerkerk getting back to slide in to tackle the attacker put the ball behind for the corner.
GOAL! From the resulting corner King’s Lynn take the lead, Russell to play the ball in, initially aimed at Tiffany Forshaw at the near post her attempted flick on is cleared coming straight back to Russell on the left one touch and fires the ball in hard across the face of goal the ball going it at the far post with players diving in, none get a touch the goal is Russell’s, King’s Lynn lead 1-0.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Becky Russell opens the scoring
The ball won back from the restart Woods is in behind for King’s Lynn taking the ball on into the box left side snatches her shot wide of the near post. Norwich go forwards the pass through the centre into Broad touched out to Moyo left side has support from Summer Ward behind her the left back firing the ball back into the area, Hodgson and Burch close Broad down the ball successfully defended.
A competitive game both sides wanting to use the width of the pitch little time for anyone on the ball. Norwich with Moyo on the ball left side puts the pass inside to Natasha Snelling 20 yards on controls on the turn and strikes the ball towards goal, keeper Bryony Russell-Smith can’t get anything on it as it flies over her head, smashes against the crossbar dropping down into play inside the six yard box right of goal Durrant looks to hit it on the volley buries the ball into the side netting wide.
Norwich make the 1st change of the game, bring off Moyo, send on Chelsea Garrett. Norwich press the ball in midfield, Shorten stealing possession takes the ball on towards the area, will strike the ball from distance given half a chance and can get plenty of power behind the ball too, lining up to shoot top of the area Burch gets across in the nick of time to slide in and deny the chance.
Norwich City Ladies, Paige Shorten
A volleyed clearance from King’s Lynn gives attacker Georgia Reardon a chance to run at the Norwich defence through the centre, Grace Parker, Norwich’s captain at centreback defends well against backtracking towards her area the ball cleared out to Russell on the right, King’s Lynn get plenty into the box as she goes to cross, the ball too close to goal, keeper Fiona Coombes with a solid take at her near post.
Norwich City Ladies, Charlotte Broad
Broad looks to get hold of the ball inside the King’s Lynn half taking it forwards jinks left then right to line up a strike from 25 yards out Burch onrushing closes her down the ball deflected out wide for the throw in, the cross fired into the centre of the six yard box, Russell-Smith with a confident claim being closed down by Snelling. Norwich having more of the ball, King’s Lynn organised at the back not letting anything in behind. Norwich make another change bringing off Millie Daviss at the back bringing on Eliza McDonald.
No advantage in the middle after Shorten is clipped passing the ball on for Snelling through the middle. A good 35 yards out, Durrant to take, a good effort clipped over the King’s Lynn wall on target dipping late just not quite enough a foot over the bar. Diston plays the ball forwards for Garrett in chase in behind the King’s Lynn defence fro once, bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith out of her area to challenge the striker, just about does enough the ball deflected off her legs out to the left into the area Garrett after it and empty goal to aim at if she can reach it, Vikttorija Burkauskaite gets there 1st however for King’s Lynn the right back sliding in to put the ball behind for the corner.
Played in from the left with pace into the six yard box King’s Lynn clear runs straight out for Shorten latching onto the shot 25 yards out the ball is driven in low on target too many legs to get through is deflected wide to safety. Shorten with another long range pop minutes later swerving in the air, Russell-Smith behind the ball spills it behind for the corner kick sent in near post King’s Lynn get it away up field. Broad with another powerful run on the ball through the middle, good defending from Hodgson staying on her shoulder and timing her tackle well.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Albany Hodgson
Late into the 1st half King’s Lynn get players forwards the ball with Russell on the right a corner is won the ball played in low towards Forshaw at the near post is once again back to Russell swing the ball into towards the penalty area Parker rises highest to clear for Norwich.
Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
An entertaining 1st half with King’s Lynn holding a narrow 1-0 lead over Norwich. The home side with a good 1st half performance to match their higher league opponents. Norwich with more of the ball haven’t been able to carve open the King’s Lynn defence and create many clear cut chances. King’s Lynn not having many themselves the ball hotly contested in the middle, will Norwich find a levelling goal 2nd half or can King’s Lynn build on their lead?
No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half Norwich out onto the pitch early. The temperature dropping it’s King’s Lynn to get the 2nd 45 underway. A quiet start to the 2nd half Norwich breaking up a King’s Lynn attack go forwards Durrant on the right plays the pass inside to Garrett helps it infield to Broad, Shorten goes beyond her the ball rolled into her path she tries to dink the ball up over the defence for Snelling, instead runs safely through to Russell-Smith. Space for Snelling drifting out to the left side the ball played forwards stands up in the turf preventing her getting on into the box, giving Burkauskaite time to get back on her make the tackle.
Forshaw’s turn to find some room out wide right for King’s Lynn the ball played on by Charlotte Griffith taking it forwards, Forshaw rides the challenge as Diston comes sliding in, keeping her feet the striker pulls the trigger from 20 yards out pulls the ball wide across the face of goal. A counter attack from King’s Lynn from a Norwich throw level with their box the ball sent long for Kelly in space left running towards the box 40 yards out, goalkeeper, Coombes has to come a long way from the ball Kelly goes to lob her, the ball over her bounces harmlessly wide of her goal.
The game getting a little stretched Norwich risking a high line at the back as they look to press the ball higher up the pitch almost presents King’s Lynn with an attacking opportunity the ball won off a deflection in the middle Kelly after it, Ward coming round on the cover making a fantastic tackle to get the ball back to Coombes. Norwich with possession wide right Garrett wins the throw the resulting ball lifted high into the area, drops to Broad lays it on to Garrett, gets her foot over the ball smashes the bouncing ball back in towards goal is taken by Russell-Smith at her near post.
King’s Lynn make their 1st change of the match bringing on Olivia Baker for Reardon, the switch pushing Forshaw into a more advanced role. A free-kick for King’s Lynn a good way out from goal as Russell is fouled. Woods on the ball takes aim for goal the ball on target, Coombes behind it all the way catches on the bounce. A knock to the ankle for Broad the Norwich attacker needing to come off Moyo coming back on.
Shorten on the ball rolls in forwards for Snelling out to Garrett right side knocks the ball forwards looking to attack the box, her tough a little heavy allows Evans to get across her and clear the ball for a throw in. Norwich keep the ball inside the King’s Lynn half comes into Ward on the left the pass forwards for Durrant the winger cutting inside charging for the box the ball knocked forwards deflected off the King’s Lynn defence back to Durrant looks to curl a shot in towards goal, does so only succeeds in picking out Russell-Smith the keeper behind the shot.
Norwich City Ladies, Summer Ward
A throw on the left for Norwich the pass sees Ward breaking in behind the King’s Lynn defence her cross flashed across the six yard box cleared back out to Snelling some 30 yards out strikes the ball sweetly arrowing towards the top corner, Russell-Smith with an excellent save the ball tipped over the bar, corner conceded played in for Moyo at the near post six yards out can’t turn and get a shot away the King’s Lynn defence on her to clear the ball. Norwich with a sustained spell of pressure, King’s Lynn break the ball long for Forshaw right into the box looks to take on the shot plays the ball straight into Coombes’ gloves at her near post.
Durrant’s runs out wide and through the middle are posing a threat for Norwich this time brought down in the middle 35 yards out Durrant on the free kick herself looks to go for goal her strike landing on the roof of the net. Soon after another run from Durrant cutting in from the left sees her brought crashing down by Russell the King’s Lynn captain shown the yellow card. NB (*Russell given final warning by referee not cautioned). A dangerous position 20 yards out from goal Durrant takes sending the ball angling towards the far post Hodgson gets her head on the ball sending it on for the corner which is successfully defended at the near post.
Norwich City Ladies, Aimee Durrant
GOAL! 20 minutes left to play and King’s Lynn double their advantage. Forshaw further forwards now the scorer as she is played in from the left into the box, Coombes comes rushing in to dive at her feet the ball squirming through to the left cries for a penalty but Forshaw riding the challenge stays on her feet retrieves the ball on the byline and keeping her composure lifts the ball in towards goal to make it 2-0.
Tiffany Forshaw doubles the advantage for King’s Lynn Town Ladies
Norwich make a change Broad recovering from her knock returning for Snelling rejoins the attack. Shorten with a brilliant long range pass from halfway picks out Ward on the overlap left side into the corner, Kelly back on her tackles to put the ball behind for the corner.
Red card! Pressing for a goal Norwich committing players forwards leave space at the back Forshaw ready to go when King’s Lynn break up play, Burch with the tackle the ball into the centre helped on to Forshaw right side a yard on Parker bearing down on the area, the defender dives in gets the ball but goes through Forshaw to do so bringing her down, the last defender Moerkerk might have gotten round on the cover but the referee doesn’t think so, Parker is sent off. Russell to take the resulting free kick her effort into the area deflected wide of goal.
15 minutes left King’s Lynn make another change, player manager Michelle Stewart-Sheen coming on for Evans at left back. King’s Lynn working hard as a team to defend giving very little away. Garrett on for Shorten running on ahead of her shoots from 20 yards out a fine save from Russell-Smith low to her right. Russell-Smith is then hurt in an accidentally collision coming out to the edge of her area to claim the ball on her knees, Broad trying to throw herself over the keeper catching her on the side of her face with her knee. Both need a few moments but are okay to continue. Durrant on the right driving with the ball into the box shoots, Russell-Smith close in low to her right pushes the ball behind for the corner kick.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell with Norwich’s Paige Shorten
GOAL! Norwich have players up from the corner the ball cleared by King’s Lynn is with Durrant right side the shot is fired in with venom across goal skims off the crossbar falling back into play at the far post inside the six yard box, Moyo reacts smartly stabbing the ball over the line before being closed down 2-1. Game on with 5 minutes of normal play left.
A frantic end to the game the ball up either end Kelly placing a wild shot wide across the Norwich area. Broad breaking through the middle for Norwich her 1st touch too heavy allowing Burch the opportunity to get in front of her shield the ball back to Russell-Smith. Snelling on for Daviss returns to the action late on for Norwich as they search for an equaliser. A reckless sliding tackle from Hodgson on Broad sees the defender yellow carded. The free-kick in a dangerous position 30 yards out Shorten to go for goal a tame effort bounces through to the keeper.
Into stoppage time Broad can’t continue, Daviss back on as the visitors press on. King’s Lynn stand firm keeping a good shape Griffith breaking up play looking to get Woods away left side. Coombes gathers sends the ball long knocked on now way through the centre of the King’s Lynn defence, Russell bringing it forwards. The final whistle blows and King’s Lynn celebrate a memorable win.
Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-1 Norwich City Ladies
2-1 to King’s Lynn Town Ladies at The Walks to go through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. A good performance from start to finish working hard as a team to give little away, press the ball in the middle and time their attacks. Norwich with more of the ball had opportunities to score but found it difficult to find any openings in behind their opponents defence. Was an entertaining game another great showcase for women’s football in Norfolk.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
A few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith with some excellent saves. Shanice Burch at the back and Tiffany Forshaw up top too, but in the end it was a quality performance from King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell from the 1st minute to the last and she is today’s Player of the Match.
Another good game at The Walks, my thanks to both sides for their help again today and best of luck to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the next round of the County Cup.
It is certainly an interesting picture at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division an ever changing picture with the lead changing once again and now Chelmsford City Ladies have gotten themselves right amongst the leaders.
Going into the weekend Frontiers Ladies were top of the table were at home on Sunday taking on Corringham Cosmos both sides competing for the Essex Women’s Division One title all the way last season before Frontiers came out on top. Frontiers unbeaten with Corringham winning all 3 of their league games to date was always going to be a competitive match and proved the case, 1-1 at half-time the sides couldn’t be separated both getting another goal 2nd half to share the points with a 2-2 draw, Jill Bartholomew and Kay Foy scoring for Frontiers, Rachel Fleming and Chloe Sams netting the goals for Corringham Cosmos.
The draw from Frontiers sees them drop to 2nd in the table with the two sides who had previously led the way in the Premier Division meeting at the weekend 2nd v 3rd with Hatfield Peveral Ladies taking on Collier Row Tigers, plenty of goal in this fixture a narrow 3-2 lead for the visitors at half-time, an early own goal putting Hatfield into the lead Collier Row Tigers going on to lead 3-1 before Yasmin Cowley pulled it back to 2-3 for Hatfield Peveral in the final minute of the 1st half. Hatfield Peveral with a strong last 20 minutes Victoria King scoring from the penalty spot, Cowley scoring her 2nd of the game with 15 minutes left. Christa Osman adding a 5th goal for Hatfield Peveral in the last 10 minutes with King scoring another from the spot with 3 minutes left to see Hatfield Peveral clinch the 3 points with a 6-4 win. Sarah Finch, Helen Moreira and Emma Harrison with 2 goals one from the penalty spot scoring for Collier Row Tigers.
Two sides looking to muscle in on the title contenders met at the weekend with Lawford Ladies hosting a resurgent Chelmsford City Ladies climbing the Premier Division rapidly with 3 straight league wins a competitive encounter between the sides it was Chelmsford City who came out on top to make it 4 straight wins with a narrow 3-2 result to move into 3rd position in the Premier Division table. Tyler Christou with 2 goals and Jessica Loble the scorers.
Eastern Avenue move up to 5th spot in the Essex Women’s Premier Division with a 7-2 home win over Chigwell Ladies at the weekend. Katie Peers finding the back of the net for 4 goals top scoring in the game. Teliscia Linton scoring a brace and a goal for Hannah Warner securing the 3 points. Hollie Butterworth and Becky Condon scoring for Chigwell.
Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies were on home soil at the weekend taking on Runwell Sports Ladies in the Essex Premier Division, leading 2-0 at half-time, Beacon Hill Rovers went on to add a 3rd go in the 2nd half to win all 3 points, Jo Smeaton moving onto 8 goals for the season scoring twice one from the penalty spot. Anna South also on target.
The points were shared between the bottom 2 in the Essex Premier Division, with Hutton Ladies hosting Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. The visitors holding a narrow 2-1 lead at half-time, Hutton levelling the scores in the 2nd half to see both take home a point. Hayley Knott and Jessica Tuffen scoring for Hutton. Charlotte Bolton and Amber Strows with the 1st half goals for Harlow.
Essex Women’s Division One
Hullbridge Sports Ladies continue to blaze the trail in Essex Women’s Division One making it 7 wins from 7 now with a big away win on Sunday against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Sabrina Campbell scoring 4 goals for Hullbridge in the match the the rest of their goals spread amongst the squad with, Danni Dorrington, Sophie Fraser, Broghan Kelly, Autumn Ranger and Megan Marney all getting a goal in a 9-1 win.
Hullbridge Sports remain 3 points clear at the top of the table as 2nd placed Southend United Ladies keep up the pressure on the leaders with a 6th win of the season at home to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday, Georgia Raby scoring all 4 of their goals 2 in each half in a 4-2 victory. Carla Rose and Chloe Williamson netting the goals from Brentwood.
Also keeping up the pressure on the top two 3 points further back with a game in hand on both sides are Leigh Ramblers Ladies and they gave their goal difference a huge boost with a massive win away to bottom side Waltham Forest Ladies on Sunday. Sasha Vail top scoring in the game getting 5 goals to her name. 3 players grabbing a hat-trick too, Connie Mashford, Rebecca Dalgarno and Rhianna Castle. Abbi Brown, Katherine Newton both getting a brace their was a goal each too for, Chloe Gilligan, Paige White, Olivia Francis and Aimee Skinner in a whopping 22-0 win.
Coming up on the rails chasing to top 3 are Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies another side with games in hand on those above. Won big away to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. With a narrow 1-0 advantage at half-time the floodgates opened 2nd half with Dagenham & Redbridge going on to record an 8-0 win and a 3rd straight win in the league.
A big win for Rayleigh Town Ladies too at the weekend at home sees them climb up to 6th spot in the Essex Women’s Division One table. Taking on Benfleet Villa Ladies, Rayleigh Town were leading 4-0 at half-time before running rampant 2nd half to win 13-1. Their captain Isabelle Wallings getting half that total scoring 7 times to take her goals to 21 for the season from just 7 appearances. Francesca Browne scoring a hat-trick for Rayleigh Town, Eleasha Reeves grabbing two along with a goal for Holly Gash. Lily Bridgeman with the 2nd half strike for Benfleet.
Recovering from a run of 3 straight defeats in the league that had seen them drop down the Essex Women’s Division One table FC Clacton Ladies picked up a point in a 2-2 draw two weeks ago and built on that performance this Sunday with a hat-trick from Charlotte Warren seeing them pick up all 3 points at home to Walden Ladies edging them out 3-2, Abi Head with both of Walden’s goals. Clacton moving back up to 8th in the table.
One match played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this Sunday with Sharnbrook WFC hosting Sherrardswood Ladies. The hosts taking the lead in the 17th minute, Emma Bulter scoring the goal for Sharnbrook, the Bedfordshire side holding on to their single goal advantage until the final 6 minutes, Laurie Marris with her 4th goal of the season levelling the scores and seeing both sides take home a point.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One match too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two with Letchworth Garden City Eagles hosting 3rd placed Garston Ladies 2nd XI the visitors looking to extend their 100% winning start to 4 games. A competitve match Letchworth scoring twice with goals from Tayla Murray and Natalie Moey, Garston scoring 3 up the other end to win the game and keep their record intact. Eleanor Barton, Lauren Berryman and Charley Kelsey scoring the goals to secure victory the win taking Garston back to the top of the Division Two table.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
New leaders in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this weekend with 2nd placed Bedford Ladies Development taking advantage of leaders Welwyn Pegasus Azures not being in action to win and move above them. At home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Paige Abraham opened the scoring for Bedford on 10 minutes. A brace from Jessica Bunnage saw Bedford with a 3-0 lead at the break. Maya Sidhu make it 4-0 in the 2nd half netting on 70 minutes with Bunnage going on to complete her hat-trick in the final 5 minutes. Courtney Edwards scoring a late consolation goal for Bedwell Rangers. Bedford winning 5-1.
Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets move up 2 places in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three table with a 3rd win of the season up from 6th to 4th. Away to Shefford Town & Campton Ladies. Charlotte Demmon scoring in the 14th minute for the visitors, Erin Dabbs adding a 2nd goal 2 minutes later. Emily Saunders scoring from the penalty spot for Woburn on the half hour. Alexandra Miller also getting a goal with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half. 2 more goals coming in the final 3 minutes of the 2nd half Miller with her 2nd of the game before Lauren Revell found the back of the net with 2 minutes left Woburn winning 6-1.
Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup
5 ties from the 2nd Round of this seasons Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup taking place this Sunday. Evergreen Ladies awarded a home win against King’s Langley Youth U17s Belles Girls.
An all Beds & Herts Division One clash in the 2nd Round with table toppers St Albans Ladies hosting Garston Ladies. Sophie Monahan playing her final game for St Albans opening the scoring for the home side. Ellen Slater also scoring in the 1st half. Slater adding her 2nd of the game via the penalty spot on the hour with top scorer Chloe Reeves adding a 4th goal for St Albans late in the match. Garston’s Jane Hales scoring 2 for the visitors, St Albans progress to the quarter finals with a 4-2 win.
Hitching Belles from Beds & Herts Division Two were hosting Division Three side Potters Bar United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the Hertfordshire County Cup. Leading comfortably 4-0 at half-time Hitchin Belles went on to claim 3 more goals 2nd half winning 7-0 to reach the quarter finals. Charlotte Peters scoring a hat-trick the other 4 goals were shared out with Amy Jack, Chloe Keller, Gemma Smith and Charis Wakefield all getting on the scoresheet.
A big test for Beds & Herts Division Two side, Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires taking on higher league opponents Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies at home in the 2nd Round of the Hertfordshire County Cup the regional league side given a game however, Sophie Mandel and April Spang scoring for Welwyn Pegasus, it wasn’t quite enough as Hemel Hempstead scored 3 up the other end to progress to the quarter finals.
Two ties from the 2nd Round of the Hertfordshire County Cup featuring sides from the ERWFL. Division One South side Hertford Town Ladies were hosting ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. It was the hosts who took the lead in the match Donna Watts putting Hertford 1-0. Colney Heath came back to level the scores just before half-time Holly Sheridan getting the goal. Sheridan then went on to score another early in the 2nd half to see Colney Heath lead 2-1. couldn’t build on their lead however and Hertford came back to level it at 2-2 with Watts scoring her 2nd of the game. The tie was settled in extra-time, Samantha May sending home a free-kick to put Colney Heath back into the lead and this time they held on for the 3-2 result to reach the quarter finals.
The other all ERWFL tie saw Division One South side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies hosting league leaders unbeaten Stevenage Ladies Reserves. Hoddesdon up against a side yet to concede in the league the visitors opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Hoddesdon responded with a quickfire reply to make it 1-1, Hannah Kelly scoring. Stevenage retaking the lead on 20 held onto the advantage until the half-time break. Again Hoddesdon scored pulling it back to 2-2 in the 2nd half, Stevenage though getting up the other end making it 3-2, their goals scored by Hannah Marshall, Rebecca Day and Emily Scofield. For the 3rd time in the match however Hoddesdon brought it back level and at 3-3 after 90 minutes the tie headed into extra-time. Hoddesdon having the better of the 30 period of play going on to score 2 goals to lead 5-3 and held on to win through to the quarter finals of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup, Kelly scoring a hat-trick with Kristina O’Connell scoring the other 2 goals.
League Cup quarter finals weekend in Suffolk this Sunday, 8 sides vying for a spot in the semi-finals of the competition. AFC Kesgrave Ladies were a home to Ipswich Athletic Youth Ladies in their quarter final match the home side with a good 1st half display that saw them leading 3-0. Daisy Starsmoore netting a brace for Kesgrave along with a goal for Ashley Bustos. Ipswich Athletic pulling a goal back 2nd half through Shannon Cameron, Kesgrave reaching the semi finals of the League Cup in their 1st season in ladies football.
Coplestonians Ladies are also through to the semi-finals of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup with a narrow 2-1 victory away to Hadleigh United Ladies on Sunday, Goals from Courtney Farris-Whatling and Josie Haward seeing them advance.
Bacton United Ladies were drawn away to Leiston St Margarets Ladies in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s League Cup. A competitive tussle between the sides they couldn’t be separated after 90 minutes drawing 1-1 the tie headed into extra-time. Leiston St Margarets finding another goal it was the visitors celebrating victory however as Bacton United found the back of the net twice in the extra 30 minutes to win 3-2 and reach the semi-finals. Lois Balfour scoring 2 goals with Kirsten Spooner also getting a goal.
Two sides who would have been fancied to reach the final of the League Cup itself this season were drawn together in the quarter finals instead with Walsham Le Willows hosting league leaders East Bergholt United Ladies. Was a close match with just the one goal scored enough to see East Bergholt United beaten finalists last season progress their goal scoring heroine, Charlotte McGrath.
The semi finals line up is listed below both games scheduled to be played in the New Year, Sunday 28th January.
Coplestonians Ladies v AFC Kesgrave Ladies
East Bergholt United Ladies v Bacton United Ladies
This Sunday saw 4 ties from this season’s Norfolk Ladies League Cup 2nd Round being played. Holders Bungay Town Ladies were drawn away to fellow Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies. A potentially tricky tie for Bungay as it was the visitors were in control of the fixture by half-time leading 3-0 went on to add another 3 goals 2nd half with both Emily Leach and Samantha Walker scoring a hat-trick the final score 6-1, Louise Hamilton-Rout with the 2nd half goal for Wymondham.
Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies, Juliette Kelly
Bure Valley Wildcats were at home to fellow Division Tow side, Toftwood United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the League Cup. Plenty of goals scored in this fixture, Bure Valley edging the 1st half with a narrow 3-2 lead, went on to double that goals tally 2nd half with Toftwood United finding just one more goal, Bure Valley winning 6-3 to reach the quarter finals Juliette Kelly scoring a hat-trick for the home side their other goals scored by Charlie Cooper, Carrie Last and Jade Starling. Thea Wilson with a brace for Toftwood United with Laura Harvey scoring their other goal.
Fakenham Town Ladies progressed with ease to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a dominant 1st half at home to Aylsham Ladies in the 2nd Round. The visitors struggling for numbers starting the game with just 7 players gave it a go, Fakenham with the numbers advantage soon on top, Sam King scoring 4 goals in the 1st half, Rochelle Woods getting a brace along with goals from Selina Goodrum and Jennifer Codman seeing them leading 8-0 at half time. Aylsham conceding the 2nd half.
In the other all Division One clash in the 2nd Round of the League Cup it was bound to be a competitive match between Stalham Town Ladies away to North Walsham Angels Ladies. The sides all square at the break drawing 1-1. It was Stalham who went on to have the better of the 2nd half scoring 3 more goals to take the result 3-1 and book a quarter final spot with goals from Sophie Lubbock, Amber Mayhew and Marie Meale. Hannah Sturman scoring the 1st half goal for North Walsham.
4 2nd Round ties outstanding with a couple of postponements this weekend and 2 scheduled for a later date however the quarter final draw has been made and is as follows.
Bungay Town Ladies v Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies
Costessey Sports Ladies or Gorleston FC Ladies v Stalham Town Ladies
Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies or FC Sprowston Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies or Tavern Ladies
Long Stratton Ladies or Thorpe United Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies
3 games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and with the top two not in action it was a chance for others to close the gap at the top. St Ives Town Ladies go 3rd in the table with a home victory against Cambridge City Ladies Development. Katie Stancombe scoring a hat-trick in the game for St Ives seeing them to a 3-1 win. Molly White with the goal for Cambridge City.
Elsewhere it was the Fenland derby with Park Ladies hosting local rivals March Town United Ladies. The visitors coming out on top to claim all 3 points. Goals from Naomi McGarvie and Shannon Shaw helping March Town United to a 2-0 win.
2-0 was also the winning score for Peterborough based side, ICA Sports Ladies against Cambridge Universtiy Women on Sunday the hosts winning courtesy of a goal from Clare Knibbs along with an unfortunate own goal.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
Hungate Rovers Ladies were hosting 2nd placed Wisbech Town Ladies in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday. The visitors running out comfortable winners leading 3-0 at half-time, Chloe Riches scoring twice for Wisbech Town with Faye Kowalewsky also on target. 2nd half Wisbech Town doubling their lead Sophie Gutteridge claiming yet another hat-trick moving her onto 22 for the season. The win puts Wisbech Town back on top of the table with a better goal difference to Ketton Ladies.
Ketton at home at the weekend but missed out on the chance to keep their 3 point lead at the top of the table against Wisbech St Mary Ladies. Despite taking an early 2-0 lead Ketton were eventually beaten 7-3 by Wisbech St Mary the 3rd placed side unbeaten closing the gap on the leading pair to 2 points with games in hand on both. Amy Magnus scoring a hat-trick for Wisbech St Mary. Carlie Knight hit a brace too with a goal a piece for Jessica Cooper and Ellena Bennington.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
3 matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South this Sunday and a big win away from home for 2nd placed Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds sees them return to the top of the table on goal difference over Histon Ladies Reserves who weren’t in action this weekend. Away to Burwell Tigers, Marie Stubbings top scored in the match for Fulbourn scoring 5 goals taking her onto 20 goals already this season from 6 appearances. Goals too for Joanne Woods, Amy Smith and Katie Luddy in an 8-0 result.
Moving up the Championship South table from 6th to to 3rd position are Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves winning their 2nd league game of the season away to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Isleham United netting twice in the match with goals from Lily Turner an Laura Todd were edged out by the visitors scoring 3 times to get the win and 3 points, Jordanne Sillitoe with a brace along with a goal for Abbi Griffin.
Also on the move up the Championship South table are newly formed St Ives Town Ladies Development winning 2 from 2 now to move up to 4th in the table. At home to Cambridge Rangers it was the hosts who held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time. St Ives coming back to level the scores in the 2nd half, Emilee Steele finding the back of the net. The hosts going on to win with captain Georgia Rebane firing the ball home to make it 2-1.
It is with sadness that I have to bring the news of another football casualty this season a 2nd side having to call it a day in the ERWFL Premier Division. Making to tough decision are Lowestoft Town Ladies, a club that has enjoyed many good times in recent season’s featured in my very 1st match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. However trouble caused by the previous management regime saw a host of playing departures at the club and despite their best efforts to rebuild and regroup the club has failed to attract sufficient numbers this season struggling to field a team. A real shame but wish all those involved the best going forwards. Hopefully the town can one day field a woman’s side again the game is poorer for not having Lowestoft in it.
ERWFL Premier Division
With several ERWFL sides involved in the FA Women’s Cup there was a limited league programme this weekend, leaders Billericay Town Ladies were hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies and for the 2nd Sunday in a row the hosts had to settle for a point in another high scoring draw. 3-3 against Royston Town Ladies last time out deja vu this Sunday, despite 2 goals from new signing Georgia Box and 1 from Courtney Lumley, Billericay Town again conceded 3 up the other end with Semma Halil, Megan Partridge and Stacey Teager all scoring for Sudbury to see them take a point back with them to Suffolk.
No stopping Cambridge City Ladies right now in the ERWFL Premier Division as they climb to their highest ever league position going 2nd in the table after a 6th straight league win. Were taking on Writtle Ladies the side in possession of 2nd spot going into the game in Essex, Writtle starting the season really well themselves enjoying a similar run to the one Cambridge City are on right now. Last season’s Division One Champions now well an truly amongst the title challengers goals from Lauren Tomlinson and Charlotte Gillies securing maximum points with a 2-0 win.
ERWFL Division One North
King’s Lynn Town Ladies continue to set the pace in ERWFL Division One North remain 4 points clear at the top as they extend their winning run in league and cup to 6 games. At home on Sunday were taking in Histon Ladies the Cambridgeshire side making the trip into Norfolk for the 3rd weekend running and again coming away empty handed. Goals from Oksana Imanalijeva, captain Becky Russell and Shelley Woods putting King’s Lynn Town into a 3-0 lead Abigail Davies scoring a late goal for Histon.
In the Ipswich derby, Ipswich Wanderers were hosting Ipswich Town Ladies Development on Sunday. Jessica Taylor-Allum scoring from a corner and a goal from Megan Strickland seeing Ipswich Wanderers win 2-0 to take the 3 points.
Fresh from securing their 1st league win of the season last weekend Essex side Silver End United Ladies were hosting Cambridge United WFC Reserves this Sunday. It was the visitors who took the lead in the match Ellen Green netting for Cambridge. Striker Ebony Rule making it 2-0 to Cambridge. Rebecca Donnelly pulling a goal back for Silver End it wasn’t enough as Cambridge got the 3 points their 3rd win of the season.
ERWFL Division One South
One game in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday with Little Thurrock Dynamos taking on Hutton Ladies the two Essex sides having already seen plenty of each other so far this season. Competitive contests between the sides Little Thurrock Dynamos have come out on top each time in league and cup. This time in the league a single goal sealing the win for Little Thurrock Dynamos as they continue their 100% winning start to the season 5 wins from 5 move 3 points behind leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves who also have a 100% record.
