Three games played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and thing’s a starting to look close at the top as leaders East Bergholt United Ladies are held to a point for the 3rd successive game after a run of 8 straight wins.
Were away to 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday goals from Jessica Clark and Charlotte McGrath seeing East Bergholt into a 2-0 lead Brantham pulling it back to 2-1 before half-time. Brantham kept plugging away 2nd half eventually getting the goal to earn them a point from the game, Lucy Dunnett and ex-East Bergholt player Jodie Sharp with the goals.
Despite earning a point however Brantham Athletic Ladies drop a place to 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division as Bacton United Ladies move back above them into 2nd spot as they extended their unbeaten league run to 11 games with a big away win at bottom club Hadleigh United Ladies on Sunday. Lois Balfour top scoring in the match getting 4 goals. Maria Smith and Rebecca White both getting a brace each too with Francesca Rainbird also getting on the scoresheet in a 9-0 victory. Close the gap to East Bergholt United to 3 points now with Brantham Athletic a pint further back but with a game in hand. Games in hand too for Walsham Le Willows who have played just six league games to date to the title race is far from settled.
A fourth league win of the season for 6th placed AFC Kesgrave Ladies too on Sunday as they claimed the 3 points with a narrow win away to Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday. 0-0 after the 1st half a brace from Lina Nagib seeing the visitors clinch victory with a 2-1 win.
St Albans Ladies maintained their 5 point lead at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One as they came out on top in a 7 goal thriller at home to Sharnbrook WFC on Sunday. Ellen Slater handing St Albans an early lead the hosts found themselves trailing by half-time as goals from Emily Clark and Charlie Mullins saw Sharnbrook into a 2-1 lead. A complete turn around in the 2nd half as Eleanor Lovelock scored the equalising goal to make it 2-2 a minute in. By the 52nd minute St Albans were leading 3-2 Kiran Reyat with the goal. Sharnbrook coming back to level it at 3-3 with 20 minutes left to play Gemma Franklin on target. The match was won in the last 10 minutes with Jessica Cavaree making it 4-3 to St Albans in the 83rd minute.
Defeat for Sharnbrook coupled with a big win away from home sees Garston Ladies move above them into 4th place in the Division One table. Garston were away to Flitwick Ladies in Sunday. A brace for both Jane Hales and Lucy Zecchin helping Garston to a convincing result. Katie Sills, Caroline Tenebaum and Emma Trill also getting on the scoresheet an own goal seeing the final score 8-2 to Garston. Faye Moxon along with a penalty strike from Kierra Gabriel the goalscorers for Flitwick.
Houghton Athletic Ladies won for the 3rd time this season away to bottom side Watton Ladies on Sunday to move right up behind the sides in mid-table and have games in hand on everybody too. Emily Wilson took her season’s tally to 20 with a brace against Watton. Shakeela Hussain and Rachel Spendelow also getting a goal each in a 4-0 win.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
A good weekend on the road for Garston Ladies as their 2nd XI returned to the top of Beds & Herts Division Two with a narrow away win against Hitchin Belles on Sunday. Over turning a 2-1 half-time deficit to win the match 3-2. Amy Jack and Katie White putting Hitchin Belles into the lead 1st half. A brace from Garston’s top scorers Lauren Berryman along with a goal for Maddie Gorton securing the 3 points for Garston.
Also in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday Evergreen Eagles were away to bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. A convincing result seeing Evergreen Eagles win for the 3rd time this season. Christie Brewer with a hat-trick with a goal each for Paige Lacey-Akers and Samantha Takis in a 5-0 victory.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One match played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. Evergreen Ladies at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Goals from Natalie Maher and Rebecca Freeman helping Evergreen to a 2-1 win.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
Elsewhere across the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League this Sunday it was the quarter finals of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires reaching the last four without kicking a ball as they were awarded the home win against Shefford Town & Campton Ladies.
Hitchin Town Ladies are also through to the last four of The Chris Renshaw Cup after they won at home against Division Three side Bedford Ladies Development on Sunday. The visitors taking an early lead in the game however going 1-0 up inside 3 minutes. Chances for both sides followed in a busy opening to the game Hitchin Town awarded a penalty in the 9th minute Emma Chaffey stepping up to put the Division Two side level. Into the final 6 minutes of the 1st half and Hitchin Town got their noses in front Jessica McNamara putting the ball into the back of the net. 2-1 at half-time Chaffey scored from a corner to put Hitchin Town 3-1 up 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Midway through the 2nd half Hayley Watson was on hand to put the ball home from a rebound to secure a 4-1 win for Hitchin Town.
Also into the last four of The Chris Renshaw Cup are Letchworth Garden City Eagles after they won away from home to Division Three side Welwyn Pegasus Azures on Sunday. Alyce Williams scoring a brace for Division Two Letchworth Natalie Moey and Tayla Murray were also on target for a goal each in a 4-0 win.
A trio of Division Two sides into the last four of The Chris Renshaw Cup they are joined by Division One side Sherrardswood Ladies after the overcame in form Division Three side, Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies away from home on Sunday in the quarter finals. Sherrardswood taking an early lead in the match Laurie Marris putting them 1-0 up inside the 1st minute. That was how the scored remained right up till the hour when Sherrardswood were given the opportunity to double their advantage from the penalty spot. Marris with the spot kick putting the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 and see Sherrardswood into the semi-finals.
The semi-final line-up for The Chris Renshaw Cup is as follows:-
Sherrardswood Ladies v Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires
Hitchin Town Ladies v Letchworth Garden City Eagles
One game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday and Corringham Cosmos are look strong as they continue their pursuit of the league leaders moving into 4th place still unbeaten with games in hand on all 3 sides above them. Playing their 9th league match were at home to Runwell Sports Ladies. Leading 3-1 at half-time Corringham Cosmos added another goal 2nd half to win the game 4-1. Chloe Sams getting herself a brace along with a goal each for Rebecca Gallagher and Michelle Sumpter. Frances Murphy scoring in the 30th minute for Runwell Sports Ladies.
Essex Women’s League Cup
Two of the 4 quarter finals from the Essex Women’s League Cup were played this Sunday with Premier Division sides, Frontiers Ladies and Lawford Ladies both scoring 7 goals on their way to booking their places in the semi-finals.
Frontier Ladies were away to fellow Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers who reached the League Cup final last season. Wasn’t to be this time around as Frontiers recovered from being knocked out of the Essex Women’s Trophy semi-finals with a convincing win to reach the last 4 of the league cup. 4 goals to the good at half-time went on to win the game 7-0. Sharon Ferguson amongst the goals getting 4 more to her tally to take her onto 18 for the season. Jill Bartholomew, Anna Freeman and Kelly Holsworth also finding the back of the net for a goal each.
Premier Division side, Lawford Ladies were at home in the Essex Women’s League Cup quarter finals taking on Division One side, Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies. 3 players claiming a brace for Lawford in the match, Jasmine Cox, Erin Hornby and Sofia Serghiou along with a goal for Ami Warnes as Lawford reached the semi-finals. The final score 7-2.
Essex Women’s Division One
Remains very tight at the top of Essex Women’s Division One with the top three all winning big at the weekend. League leaders, Hullbridge Sports Ladies at home to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Broghan Kelly the 1st player in the East (I haven’t checked the rest of the UK) to break the 40 goals barrier this season moving on to 41 from 14 appearances as she got a double hat-trick at the weekend. Jennifer Lyttle scoring a brace along with a goal for Kelly Smith as Hullbridge racked up a 9-0 win.
2nd placed Southend United Ladies level on points with Hullbridge doubled that goals tally at home to FC Clacton Ladies on Sunday as they put 18 goals into the back of their opponents net for their biggest win of the season. Both Lauren Johnson and Emily Pert getting 4 goals a piece. Georgia Raby getting a brace as did Molly Johnson her 1st two goals for the club this season, Emily Gowland on her debut getting a brace also. The other goals were shared out amongst Ria Toovey, Morgan Hayes, Sophie Dell and Emily Seymour the 1st goal for the season for the later pair.
In 3rd spot Leigh Ramblers Ladies are just 2 points behind the leading pair in Essex Women’s Division One were away to Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday. Leigh Ramblers top scorer Katherine Newton claiming a hat-trick to move onto 24 goals for the season. Emily Diwell and Rebecca Dalgarno were also on target in a 5-1 win. Joanne Harvey getting the goal for Alresford.
Has been a torrid season so far for Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves falling to the foot of Essex Women’s Division One with just 2 points on the board from their first 11 league matches. Had something to celebrate however at the weekend as they earned a very good point at home to 4th placed Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Brentwood finding some form of late scoring through Sophie Lovell. A goal for Laura Kendle seeing Chelmsford City draw the game 1-1 their 3rd point of the season taking them off the bottom of the table.
Two games from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. Leaders Netherton United Ladies back in action after 2 weekends without a match were away to 2nd bottom Cambridge University Women. Having met them at the start of February winning at home convincingly 9-1. Away this time around Netherton United picked up all 3 points once again with top scorers Emily Johnson ad Yasmin Green netting a goal for the visitors in each half. Amanda Wainwright pulling a goal back for Cambridge University Women deep into stoppage time the 2-1 win sees Netherton United remain 6 points clear at the top of the Premiership.
St Ives Town Ladies are their nearest rivals now as they moved above Newmarket Town Ladies into 2nd place in the Premiership on Sunday. Were taking on March Town United Ladies for the 5th time this season St Ives Town coming out on top in all the previous encounters in league and cup. Away to March Town this Sunday it was another convincing performance to record their 9th league win of the season. Leading the game 2-0 at half-time went on to score 4 more in the 2nd half to win 6-0. Six different goalscorers for St Ives Town too, Tierney Coulson, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe, Connie Liddiard, Megan Stow and Amy Seymour-Shove all on target. 3 games in hand on Netherton United with a 6 point gap to close the sides have to face each other twice yet in the league including the final day of the scheduled league season.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
One remaining quarter final to be played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup this Sunday saw Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies travelling to play Championship South leaders Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. A narrow lead for Newmarket Town at half-time with a goal from Antonia Smith putting them in front. A brace from Jordanne Sillitoe sealing the win in the 2nd half to send Newmarket into the last four of the competition with a 3-0 victory.
The semi-final draw for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup has also been made and looks as follows:-
Cambridge United WFC v Newmarket Town Ladies
Cambridge City Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies
Both semi-finals scheduled to be played Sunday 18th March.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
Quarter final time in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup too this Sunday with 3 of the 4 times taking place. Isleham United Ladies home match against Cambridge Rangers being called off.
Their 1st team booking their place in the Invitation Cup, Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves followed suit in the Junior Invitation Cup knocking out Premiership competition along the way. Away to Park Ladies, Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves travelled with a depleted squad having just the 10 available but came away with the win. Park took the lead in the tie scoring in the 1st half. Hollie Turner levelling the scores for Newmarket before goals from Sarah o’Rourke and Molly Agnew saw them leading 3-1 at half-time. O’Rourke scoring again in the 2nd half to extend the advantage to 4-1, Park getting it back to 4-2 a goal for Joeli Kirby seeing Newmarket Town into the last 4 with a 5-2 win. Amy Newell and Charlotte Tweed scoring the goals for Park.
Premiership side ICA Sports Ladies were at home in the quarter finals of the Junior Invitation Cup meeting Championship South side Histon Ladies Reserves for the 2nd time this season in a cup competition. That tie went all the way to a penalty shootout before ICA Sports progressed. This time round it was 0-0 between the 2 sides at the break before a brace from Carmen Herridge in the 2nd half ensured the win putting ICA Sports through to the semi-finals.
The final quarter final tie played this Sunday saw Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies at home to Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. The visitors taking the lead in the 10th minute Charlotte Gillies getting the goal. Wisbech Town came back to level the scores through top scorer Sophie Swinden. Megan Tonks returning to the side after a long term injury putting Cambridge City back into the lead on the half-hour. 2-1 the half-time lead Wisbech Town were far from out of the tie. Swinden getting it back to 2-2 in the 2nd half before Cambridge City went on to score twice more through Tonks getting her 2nd and a goal from Rachel Pearce. That the score going into the last 5 minutes sadly the game was abandoned at that point due to an injury to Wisbech Town’s Shushannah Feast suffering a double leg break a nasty injury which has since had surgery. Wishing Shushannah all the very best for a full and speedy recovery.
The semi-final draw for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup as also been made and looks as follows:-
Isleham United Ladies or Cambridge Rangers v Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves
Cambridge City Ladies Development v ICA Sports Ladies
Both semi-finals scheduled to be played Sunday 25th March.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
One match played in the group stages of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup this Sunday a clean sweep of wins for Riverside Ladies in Group D as they won their 3rd match in the group away to Pinchbeck United Ladies. Samantha Woodham scoring a hat-trick. Both Annie Posnett and Sophie Harris getting a brace with Jess Hill, Diana Olahova and Saxon Clarke all getting a goal each in a 10-0 win.
A 3rd hat-trick in 5 league games for Victoria Leyer as Sprowston Ladies extended their lead at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One to 6 points with a 4th straight league win at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. The visitors travelling with less than a full side Sprowston capitalised with a good performance to see them fully in control of the game in the opening 45 minutes. Leyer getting another 3 goals moving onto 18 goals for the season has scored in all but 2 of Sprowston’s games so far this season. Rebecca Russell, Abbi Hutchin and Abi Nobbs also celebrating getting a goal each for Sprowston in the 1st half. Wymondham despite being short on numbers rallied 2nd half to hold their opponents 0-0 the points however won in the 1st half for Sprowston.
Thorpe United Ladies were back in league action after a three week spell without a game as they took on bottom side Long Stratton Ladies at home on Sunday. Having dropped to 4th in the Division One table, were leading 1-0 right up until the end of the match before they finally made the 3 points secure with a 2-0 win that moves them back into 3rd above Stalham Town Ladies. Remain undefeated and having just played 7 league games to date have a busy few weeks ahead. Alice Smith and Shanice Sutton scoring the goal for Thorpe United.
In a mid-day kick-off 6th placed North Walsham Angles Ladies were hosting Fakenham Town Ladies 2nd bottom in the Division One table. Goals from Luci Middleton and Rachel Bussey putting North Walsham into a 2-0 half-time lead the hosts were pegged back in the 2nd half having to settle for a point as Fakenham came back to earn a draw, Rochelle Woods starting the game on the bench scoring twice to level the score to 2-2.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Three games in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday. Leaders FC Sprowston Ladies remain 3 points clear at the top as they extended their 100% record to 11 matches with a home win against mid-table Freethorpe Ladies. A brace for Katie Fray along with goals from Melissa Belsey, Joanna Davey and Charlie Head securing the 3 points with a 5-0 win.
2nd versus 3rd in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday saw Beccles Town Ladies keep the pressure up on leaders FC Sprowston Ladies with a narrow home win over Tavern Ladies. The hosts admitting it could easily have ended a draw the sides contesting a 1-1 draw in the 1st half Lucy Robbens with the goal for Beccles Town. Lucy Kean on target for Tavern Ladies the game was won in the 2nd half Beccles Town getting the goal Robbens with her 2nd to win the game 2-1 moving Beccles 8 points clear of 3rd placed Tavern.
Costessey Sports Ladies hadn’t played a game yet in 2018 as they struggled for numbers were at last able to get enough together on Sunday to play at home against Gorleston Rangers Ladies. The visitors have been involved in some high scoring matches of late this weekend no exception Costessey Sports putting in 4 goals against them Gorleston Rangers hit back at the other end to score 6 goals to come out on top in a 10 goal thriller to win their 3rd league game of the season taking the 3 points in 3 of their last 5 league games. Lauren Dennis grabbing herself a hat-trick there were goal too for Chloe Bailey, Abigail Bell and Zoe Waite. In 7th spot Gorleston Rangers a well involved in the mid-table battle now just 2 points between them and 4th placed Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies.
Quarter finals weekend in both the ERWFL Cup & Plate competitions a place in the last 4 up for grabs all the sides knowing where and who they will face in the semi-finals should they progress. Unfortunately a postponement in each competition in the Cup Royston Town Ladies home tie against Acle United Ladies being called off. Elsewhere in the Cup it was very tight with few goal scored and two ties going all the way to penalties.
A clash of the league leaders as Division One North forerunners Wymondham Town Ladies travelled down for an overnight stay in Essex to take on Premier Division leaders Billericay Town Ladies. The sides drawing 0-0 at the break Wymondham giving it their all striking the post whilst Billericay’s goalkeeper Robyn Strauss produced some excellent saves. The game won by a single goal in the 2nd half by another Strauss in the 65th minutes. U18s player Hope Strauss scoring her 1st senior team goal to send Billericay into the semi-finals.
AFC Dunstable Ladies were at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies in the quarter finals of the ERWFL Cup both given a bye in the previous round it was another close contest Sudbury unlucky not to score in open play striking the crossbar the tie was goalless heading into extra-time still neither goal could be breached onto penalties. Even that was close as AFC Dunstable nudged their way into the last 4 winning the shootout 6-5.
A close match too in the last quarter final played between Bedford Ladies at home to Brentwood Town Ladies. Separated by a place in the Premier Division the sides drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes Setor Acolatse scoring the goal for Bedford, Georgia Holdaway with her 9th goal of the season for Brentwood the tie moving into extra-time. With neither finding a winning goal there was once again a penalty shootout, Brentwood the side advancing with a 5-4 win to book their place in the last four.
That leaves the semi-final draw looking like this: –
Royston Town Ladies or Acle United Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Brentwood Town Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies
The semi-finals of the League Cup scheduled to be played Sunday 8th April.
ERWFL Premier Division
One match played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday, with Writtle Ladies moving up a place to 4th in the table with a win at home to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. The sides going into the changing rooms at the break with the scores all square at 0-0. Writtle went on to claim the win in the 2nd half, goals from Amy Simmons, Leanne Stubbings and Georgina Tricker sealing a 3-0 victory.
ERWFL Plate
Like the ERWFL Cup one of the 4 quarter final ties fell foul to the cold weather, Cambridge United WFC Reserves match at home to Hutton Ladies called off.
Histon Ladies from Division One North were hosting Division One South side, Hertford Town ladies in the Plate quarter finals. Reached the last 4 with a comfortable result, Abigail Davis scoring a hat-trick with Katie Seagrave also getting a goal in a 4-0 win.
Two all Division One South quarter finals, Bishops Stortford Ladies were at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday. The visitor getting their noses in front in the 21st minute, Kristina O’Connell with the goal. Bishops Stortford responded quickly to falling behind Daniela Ferraro levelling thing’s up 4 minutes later. 1-1 at half-time Hoddesdon went on to reach the semi-finals with two goals in the last 15 minutes of the 2nd half Hannah Kelly putting the visitors 2-1 up on 75 minutes, O’Connell with her 2nd of the match scoring just 4 minutes later to secure the 3-1 win.
In the other all Division One South quarter final in the Plate, league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves were taking on 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. The sides sharing a close contest in the regular 90 minutes neither able to break the deadlock the game heading into extra-time. A different story in the extra period as Stevenage took the lead going on to get two more goals to win the tie 3-0 to book their semi-final spot. Hannah Marshall with a brace, Emma Marshall getting the other goal.
That leaves the semi-final draw looking as follows: –
Stevenage Ladies Reserves v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
Cambridge United WFC Reserves or Hutton Ladies v Histon Ladies
The semi-final ties scheduled to be played Sunday 8th April
ERWFL Division One North
One match played in the ERWFL Division One North on Sunday featuring the bottom two, Silver End United Ladies buoyed by reaching the Essex Women’s Trophy final last weekend travelled to Ipswich Town Ladies Development. In the end it was a crushing defeat for Silver End as Ipswich Town Ladies Development recorded an 8-0 win to move 10 points clear of them with their 4th win of the season.
Two games played in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday. Crystal Palace Ladies reached the final of the Capital Cup last weekend away to Queens Park Rangers Ladies this Sunday the two sides met in the league. The deadlock broken in the 28th minute as Ciara Sherwood struck from a free-kick to give Crystal Palace the lead. That was how it remained until half-time. Queens Park Rangers coming back to level the scores on 62 minutes, Kasha Petit scoring from a free-kick outside the box. Crystal Palace were quick to respond pegged back for just 2 minutes retaking the lead with Ellie Bales scoring to make it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the win the 3 points taking them to within a point of 2nd placed Charlton Athletic Women. Crystal Palace Ladies also announcing this week they have applied for a place in FAWSL 2 with will be known as the FA Women’s Championship from next season.
In the other FAWPL Southern Division game played this weekend 6th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies travelled to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies. The sides going in goalless at half-time it was Portsmouth who went on the win the game in the 2nd half Daisy McLachlan scoring early in the 2nd period the 3 points make safe 6 minutes from time as Eilidh Currie netted the goal to give Portsmouth the 2-0 win. Move above Coventry United Ladies into 5th place in the Southern Division table.
FAWPL Cup
Coventry United Ladies complete the line-up for the last four of the FAWPL after they were successful away winners to South West Division One side, Plymouth Argyles Ladies on Sunday. Nikki Miles with the goal in the 18th minute to hand the Southern Division side the lead at half-time. Coventry doubling their advantage as the game moved on the hour mark with Amber Hughes on target with the goal. The result made secure 10 minutes later as Miles scored her 2nd of the day to put Coventry through with a 3-0 win.
The semi-finals of the FAWPL Cup with take place this coming weekend Sunday 4th March (weather permitting) Coventry United Ladies will be away to Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies. In the other semi-final Lewes FC Women from the Southern Division will be away to Northern Division counterparts, Leicester City Women both currently 4th in their respective leagues. The pair met in the same fixture a year ago albeit in the FAWPL Plate, Lewes with the narrow 1-0 win then went on to reach the final and win the competition.
FAWPL Plate
One quarter final tie outstanding in the FAWPL Plate too, postponed last weekend Luton Town Ladies hosting fellow South East Division One side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Despite a great strike from Luton’s Zara Carroll the hosts found themselves trailing 2-1 at half-time thanks to goals for Vicky Holland and Heather McDonnell for Milton Keynes. Luton get themselves back on level terms with Natasha Fensome scoring a goal celebrating her birthday. The tie won with a late late winning goal Luton the side celebrating as Nicola Henman found the back of the net to send them into the last four of the FAWPL Plate with a 3-2 win. The first time Luton have reached a national semi-final too.
Again like the FAWPL Cup the semi-finals of the Plate are scheduled to be played this Sunday 4th March. Luton Town Ladies will be at home taking on higher league opponents, Flyde Ladies from the Northern Division, whilst West Ham United Ladies will travel to Northern Division One leaders, Hull City Ladies.
FAWPL South East Division One
AFC Wimbledon Ladies already have a strong lead in FAWPL South East Division One extended that to 14 points with a big result away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. The visitors taking a very early lead Haringey credited with an own goal. AFC Wimbledon having a chance to double the lead from the penalty spot the effort was saved. Haringey came back to level the scores as they were awarded a penalty themselves, Brooke Hills scoring to make it 1-1. A busy start to the match. Wimbledon retook the lead in the 20th minute, Katie Stanley getting on the scoresheet. 2-1 quickly became 3-1 as Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell scored from a corner. Georgia Heasman getting Wimbledon’s 4th goal as the half hour approached.
4-1 up at half-time Wimbledon extended their lead in the 60th minute as Stanley found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game. For much of the 2nd half Haringey held Wimbledon to 5-1 before a flurry of goals scored in the last 5 ten minutes Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins making it 6-1 on 81 minutes. Caroline Bisson scoring too to make it 7-1 with Rebecca Sargeant and Laura Quinn-Low scoring a goal apiece in injury time to see Wimbledon win 9-1.
Ipswich Town Ladies are up from 4th to 3rd in the FAWPL South East Division One table with a home win against 6th placed Cambridge United WFC on Sunday. Women’s Football East was there to see a match that is usually close between the 2 sides, the case again the pace high not much time afforded on the ball led to some scrappy play. Chances at a premium, Ipswich Town opening the scoring in the 15th minute winning a corner on the right Cambridge not getting the ball clear falling to Natasha Thomas free at the top of the area she smashed it home to make it 1-0. Late into the 1st half an Ipswich goalkeeper, Sian Fagg fouled Cambridge striker Kelley Blanchflower inside the box to give away a penalty. Made up for it by saving comfortably against taker Amber Cantwell.
Two goals for Ipswich Town Ladies , Natasha Thomas
A narrow lead for Ipswich Town at the break. Cambridge started brightly 2nd half however it was Ipswich Town who went on to double their lead, the ball played forwards Miagh Downey getting round the centre back to push the ball past the advancing keeper from the top of the area to make it 2-0. The game far from settled Cambridge working the ball well on the left got across into the top of the area themselves to find Cantwell who drove the ball past Fagg to make it 2-1. Closing in on the last 10 minutes a good run from Thomas saw her move clear into space left of the Cambridge goal and picking her spot lifted her shot up over the keeper to make it 3-1 and seal the win for Ipswich.
A 2nd successive league win for Stevenage Ladies sees them climb up to 7th in the FAWPL South East Division One table level on points with 6th placed Cambridge now as they claimed the 3 points away to Actonians Ladies this Sunday. Paige Logie with a smart turn and volley inside the opposition six yard box on 28 minutes to give Stevenage the lead. Actonians levelling thing’s up 4 minutes from the end of the 1st half, Alessandra Barreca with the goal. The winning goal coming midway through the 2nd half Stevenage captain Donna McGuigan on target to make it 2-1.
A heavy loss last weekend for Norwich City Ladies away to leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies thing’s were starting to look daunting for the side 2nd bottom in the FAWPL South East Division One. The difference 7 days makes as Norwich came home with the 3 points this Sunday clinching the win away to Enfield Town Ladies. An early setback for the visitor as Enfield took the lead in the opening minute Katherine Long getting the goal. The 1st half moving into the final 15 minutes Norwich got back on level terms Aimee Durrant with the shot to make it 1-1. Enfield responded quickly Sheryce Slater getting up the other end to restore the hosts lead 4 minutes later. Back came Norwich to level the scores for the 2nd time 5 minutes left in the 1st half Durrant with her 2nd of the game to make it 2-2 the score at half-time. The winning goal coming on the hour mark. Australian, Brydie Siryi making her debut for Norwich getting the goal to make it 3-2 and secure the win for Norwich that closes the gap to 10th placed Denham United Ladies to 5 points. Norwich with 2 games in hand all to play for.
A trip down into Suffolk today to watch a match from the FAWPL South East Division One. with 4th placed Ipswich Town Ladies taking on Cambridge United WFC in 6th.
Been a while since I’ve been to the Goldstar Ground, home of Felixstowe & Walton FC and Ipswich Town Ladies now into their 2nd season as a regular at the venue. Always good to to see a club advertising the presence of a female side at their club too upon entry.
A good season for Ipswich Town Ladies have been in an amongst the top 4 all season, at one point with Leyton Orient WFC and Milton Keynes Dons Ladies looking to push AFC Wimbledon Ladies all the way for top spot. A defeat at Leyton Orient WFC denting their own title hopes earlier in the season AFC Wimbledon have since moved on to take a commanding lead at the top of the table going 11 points clear. Ipswich Town Ladies have games in hand on the leaders but even with maximum points know only a slip up from AFC Wimbledon will let them back into the race now. things ca change however and Ipswich Town are aiming to finish the season as high as they can having won 8 of the 13 games they have played so far. Have Ipswich Town Talk helping with the media and they are doing a fantastic job helping promote them and adding to their exposure.
Cambridge United WFC were in Ipswich’s position last season challenging for the title. This time around with alot of changes at the start of the season haven’t reached those heights are currently 6th in the table with the even record of 5 wins 5 draws and 5 losses from the 15 they have played very tight in the middle of the South East Division One table a late run of form could yet propel them up the table threaten the top 4, whilst keeping an eye on the sides below who fancy their chances of a top half finish.
Both sides are the leading women’s football sides in their respective counties and are going strong to once again retain their County Cups usually a close game between the sides. A win for Ipswich Town Ladies moves them up a place into 3rd.
The last time I was here the new clubhouse and changing rooms were just a building site the foundations barely laid. The finished product is very impressive. The main building housing the bar and kitchen plenty of food and drink to chose from hot and cold. The changing rooms adjoining is an excellent environment for the Ipswich Town Ladies players to call home. Through the clubhouse out onto the pitch nice and wide surrounded by housing lost ball in gardens a highly likely occurrence. Promised to be a very cold weekend so I was fingers crossed Sunday morning the game would be on the Sunday was high in the sky however doing it’s best to warm thing’s up still bitterly cold bright and dry it was a good footballing afternoon.
The new clubhouse at Felixstowe & Walton
Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Sian Fagg, Jacqueline Ball, Nicole Pannifer, Lindsey Cooper, Harriet Petley, Cassandra Craddock, Amanda Crump (C), Zoe Cossey, Sophie Welton, Natasha Thomas & Miagh Downey. Subs – Jordan Arnoup, Jade Henry & Gemma Moore.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Carolyn Sarafian, Laura Baker, Lauren Cartwright, Faith Hewitt, Amber Cantwell, Laura Bright (C) & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Michaela Dortch, Teonie Peyton & Lauren Gibson.
It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Cambridge wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks with Ipswich lined up opposite their backs to the sun wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. A lively start to the game both sides looking to press the ball sees the ball lost by either side, Faith Hewitt looking to get clear down the left the ball out for a throw up the other end Miagh Downey is released into space down the left but can’t keep the ball in play.
Ipswich from a throw in left side work the ball in a neat triangle inside the Cambridge half before the final ball is sent in on the diagonal into the box , an easy gather for Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith making her 2nd appearance since joining from Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Cambridge win a free-kick wide right on halfway as Amber Cantwell is upended the ball played long up into the area won by Cambridge captain Laura Bright playing up top along side Kelley Blanchflower this afternoon the ball knocked out into the midfield the first time strike looks to be on Ipswich are quick to converge and regain possession.
Ipswich’s Cassie Craddock with Cambridge’s Laura Baker
Cassie Craddock gets hold of the ball in the midfield for Ipswich moving right plays it forwards for Sophie Welton up the line she runs on with it cutting her cross back towards the top of the area, Ipswich captain Amanda Crump jumping to head the ball the looping ball angling towards the goal, Emma Jenkins gets behind it to head the ball away from danger. The tempo is very fast time on the ball at a premium Cambridge press winning the ball can’t keep it for long before Ipswich get back at them a little scrappy at times. Ipswich win a throw on the right side inside the Cambridge half between them Welton and Downey win a corner kick.
GOAL! Coming up to 15 minutes on the clock Ipswich open the scoring from the corner kick Crump the taker a good delivery inswinging into the middle of the six yard box, Smith gets her gloves to the ball knocks it away the ball falling towards the top of the area Natasha Thomas has lost her marker, coming onto the falling ball strikes it first time the ball evading everyone and flying into the back of the net 1-0.
Natasha Thomas puts Ipswich Town Ladies into the lead
The ball is sent forwards through the middle Blanchflower making a run across the Ipswich defence peels away in behind after it, Sian Fagg comes racing out to the edge of her area sliding in to claim the ball before the Cambridge striker can reach it. Bright and Blanchflower combine as Cambridge regain possession through Laura Baker the ball on by Bright left side Blanchflower in behind crosses into the area the ball going long Cantwell retrieves over on the right help from Jenkins the ball is fired back into the area the header won by Ipswich’s Lindsey Cooper.
Bright and Blanchflower with more good combination play in attack for Cambridge, Bright playing the ball on down the left makes a forwards run into the centre as Blanchflower squares the ball into her the ball is struck early 20 yards out swerves away from goal. Hewitt with a clever pass into Blanchflower who controls on her chest back to goal Lauren Cartwright makes the midfield run going beyond her Blanchflower putting the ball into her, taking it into the area left of goal Jac Ball and Hannah Petley close Cartwright down prevent her getting a shot away.
Ipswich Town Ladies, Hannah Petley
Welton has swapped sides with Zoe Cossey now on the right she is picked put by Petley bringing the ball out from the back, Cossey checks her run coming inside towards the top right corner of the area her shot/cross goes wide out at the far post. Cossey takes a knock for her efforts as she tracks back well to tackle Bennett as the full back goes past Hewitt on the overlap getting the return pass blocking the cross Bennett catches Cossey in the ankle the winger getting the free-kick.
Faith Hewitt with the ball for Cambridge United WFC
A wide pitch both sides are looking to cross the ball in more than one cross ending up behind the goal. Runs through the middle are limited, Baker and Cartwright for Cambridge and Craddock and Crump for Ipswich doing a good job breaking up play. Cossey has a go picking up the ball wanting to run with it Hewitt chases her infield and slides in to win the ball. Downey comes deep to receive the ball a good turn and pass out to Cossey on the move down the right screws her cross onto the roof of the Cambridge net. Cambridge are unhappy with so of the refereeing decisions Blanchflower appearing to have her shirt tugged as she tries to spin in behind to attack the box, The referee having a word with the Cambridge bench.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Kelley Blanchflower
Cambridge press on down the right with the ball Bright with Cantwell win the visitors a corner kick the ball is played out towards the top of the area met by Hewitt her strike is sent high over the crossbar. Cartwright is fouled as she brings the ball forwards taken short into Cantwell right she wins a throw put into Bright she holds the ball up rolled back into Cantwell her cross lifted into the box is won by Cooper.
Keep your eyes on the ball
Late into the 1st half is an even game quality in the final third lacking the hard pressing game continues in midfield, a 50/50 ball is won by Cambridge goes long forwards Blanchflower is onto it running clear of the Ipswich defence into the box right of goal Fagg comes running out sliding in brings Blanchflower down the referee points to the spot, PENALTY! Fagg is carded as Cantwell places the ball on the spot. Looks to place the ball to the keepers left, Fagg reads it however and throwing herself to the left makes a comfortable looking saves holding onto the ball.
Ipswich Town Ladies, goalkeeper Sian Fagg
The opportunity for Cambridge to level the scores gone the game continues at a furious pace the ball from one end to the other possession lost too easily. Cantwell shes the ball played into her path as she makes a forwards run can’t bring it under control as Fagg closes her down to claim. Kayleigh-Anne Burt with the forwards pass for Bright on for Blanchflower a throw won on the left Cambridge get the ball into the Ipswich area, the home defence scramble it away Cambridge reclaim the ball come on again left side Hewitt on for Bennett the cross in towards the near post, Petley meeting the ball sees it skip up off her body to land onto the roof of her own net. A good delivery from the corner on the left the ball flying across the six yard box Carolyn Sarafain coming in at the far post can’t quite get on the end of it.
Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 1-0 Cambridge United WFC
A narrow lead for Ipswich at half-time 1-0 thanks to Natasha Thomas. A fast paced first half but overall scrappy the tempo affecting play to a degree no one with any time to settle on the ball. Both managers frustrated few chances in the final 3rd the midfield has seen alot of the action fairly even very finely balanced with the 2nd half to come.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Carrie Bennett
No changes for either side at half-time as Ipswich get the 2nd half underway. Cambridge with an early opportunity to put the ball into the Ipswich box winning a free-kick out wide on the right. Jenkins to take, sends the ball long towards the far post Cartwright with a good jump gets her head to the ball but can’t get enough on it to deflect it in towards goal runs wide out of play for the goal kick. Cambridge have started the 2nd half the better making progress on the left win a corner the delivery towards the top of the area flicked in towards goal, Fagg claims the ball inside her six yard box.
Cambridge’s Lauren Cartwright looking to hold up the ball
GOAL! Cambridge bright start to the 2nd half is undone as Ipswich get the ball up the other end quickly to double their lead. Cossey winning the ball at the back playing it long up towards Downey in the centre, the Cambridge defence looking to shield the ball as Smith comes racing out to lay claim to the ball. Downey is tenacious as she does well to get around her marker at the top of the area getting her foot onto the ball as she goes to ground pushing it past the advancing Smith and on into the back of the net beyond 2-0.
Miagh Downey doubles the lead for Ipswich Town Ladies
Hewitt is fouled in a dangerous position in front of the Ipswich area left of the D 25 yards out, Bright starting the 2nd half deeper in midfield to take goes for goal her effort on target lacking the pace or height to trouble Fagg. Baker is in an advanced position central as the ball is crossed into her from the right goes with the outside of her right foot attempting to play Hewitt in behind her ball going long runs out of play far post. Craddock with a good tackle wins the ball her pass out out to the right Downey gives chase sends her cross behind the Cambridge goal.
GOAL! 15 minutes into the 2nd half and Cambridge pull a goal back. Players drifting over to the left side as Cambridge build good work from Blanchflower as she receives the ball holding it up before sending a cross in across the top of the area finding Cantwell unmarked 20 yards out makes no mistake as she meets the ball sending her shot angling into the back of the net past Fagg before the keeper can move 2-1.
Ipswich’s Nicole Pannifer with Cambridge’s Amber Cantwell
Soon after Cambridge make their 1st change of the game bringing Sarafian off sending on Lauren Gibson the striker joining Blanchflower up top Bright who started the game in attack is now back in defence alongside Burt. A handball spotted by the referee as Cambridge attack on the right the free-kick awarded Baker over it as players come forwards from the back the delivery towards the far post the ball knocked down into the middle of the area Bright closest tries to put the ball back over her shoulder in towards goal is blocked rebounds to Gibson right of goal six yards out she gets a shot away too many Ipswich bodies to get through the shot it kept out. Ipswich counter getting the ball up the other end Thomas looking to get into the box left side, Jenkins going with her does enough to put her off checking back Thomas tries to pick out Welton far post Burt with the interception.
Cossey on the ball runs forwards taking it a long way before getting into a crossing position left side puts a high ball into the box the target again Welton running in gets her head on the dropping ball but can’t direct it on target. The game is stretched Cambridge after another goal Hewitt lays the ball on for Blanchflower left side her shot in towards the near post covered by Fagg. Downey has a chance to shoot from the top of the box, Smith behind it all the way catches safely. Blanchflower is down far side need treatment. Ipswich make their 1st change, Downey the player giving way. Jade Henry coming on up top.
Zoe Cossey on the move with the ball for Ipswich Town Ladies
GOAL! Closing in on the final 10 minutes Ipswich break to extend their lead the ball won in midfield by Crump comes to Thomas she takes it on evading a rash challenge has space to carry the ball into on the left, wide of the area checks her run has time to look up and sends a shoot angling in over Smith and into the goal beyond 3-1.
Blanchflower needs to come off for Cambridge as they make their 2nd change Teonie Peyton taking her place. Jenkins is fouled as she looks to get forwards down the right. Wide of goal it’s the full back over it to take sent long towards the far post Ipswich have plenty back to win the ball and get the ball clear. Cambridge make their final change Jenkins coming off to be replaced by Michaela Dortch at right back. Ipswich make another change too Cossey coming off with Gemma Moore entering the field. The home side break quickly Thomas playing Welton in Cambridge recover quickly to win the ball back.
Ipswich Town Ladies captain, Amanda Crump
Not long left on the clock the game is scrappy Crump and Craddock breaking it up in the middle free-kick are given away by both sides some frustration on display. Ipswich make their final change Jordan Arnoup introduced Welton giving way. The substitute in to win the ball back as Ipswich finish strongly determined not to concede another goal. Cantwell takes a knock fouled down the right the ball played down the line Pannifer putting it out for the throw. One last attack for Cambridge the ball played into Gibson top of the area lays it back out for Cantwell wide right her long distance strike wide across the area.
Full time Ipswich Town Ladies 3-1 Cambridge United WFC
I really enjoyed this game even if ultimately it was a scrappy affair, two energetic and committed sides on display especially in the middle of the park. Few chances created and balls into the final third going to waste. The goals scored were nevertheless very well taken. Ipswich winning 3-1 in the end will be happy with the 3 points that lift them up to 3rd in the South East Division One table. Cambridge will be disappointed in the end the goals they conceded all could have been avoided.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Never gets any easier choosing the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. This afternoon being no exception a real battle in the middle of the park, no time afforded on the ball and although Craddock ran her close today’s award goes to the Ipswich captain Amanda Crump.
My thanks as always to both sides with their help with the team line-ups today although they are two sides who I know very well, always pays to check however.
Football action from FAWSL 2 this Thursday evening a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Watford Ladies.
A solid start to life for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies in FAWSL 2 since winning FAWPL Playoff as Southern Division Champions in May 2017. A good run at the start of the season seeing them sitting 6th in the table on 10 points, a difficult spell of 7 straight defeats in league and cup coming to an end last Sunday at home to Oxford United Women over turning a 1 goal deficit to win the game 2-1. Will look to build on that result in tonight local derby match at home to Watford Ladies. A transitional period for the FAWSL as it is revamped ahead of the new season with new licences being issued Tottenham have applied to retain their FAWSL 2 position for next season.
Watford Ladies are founder members of FAWSL 2 have struggled in recent seasons, signs were there that thing’s had started to turn the corner under coach Keith Boanas. Were undone somewhat with the announcement the club wouldn’t be applying for an FAWSL licence next season. This has led to Boanas leaving his position along with a some players. Armand Kavaja taking over as first team manager. Have added a few new faces recently, former Swindon Town Ladies captain, Samantha Hallsworth, midfielder Katherine Huggins from C&K Basildon Ladies and most recently, Georgie O’Halloran form FAWPL South East Division One leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies. League results haven’t gone their way Watford adrift at the bottom of the FAWSL 2 table have just the one point on the board after 7 games.
Cheshunt FC the venue tonight under the lights always busy whenever you pull into the carpark training pitches beyond the main pitch. A bar along with hot food and drinks available. A wide pitch a dry evening the sun down getting very chilly as the sides emerged from the changing rooms ready for kick-off.
Watford Ladies starting XI – Frances Kitching, Charlotte Kerr, Antonia Gregoriou, Rebecca McShane, Samantha Hallsworth, Anneka Nuttall (C), Emily Hill, Katherine Huggins, Leanne Bell, Adekite Fatuga-Dada & Helen Ward. Subs – Weronika Baronowska, Linda Afuakwah, Andie Dickens, Mollie Dench & Georgia 0’Halloran.
It’s Watford to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing yellow shirts with red shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. The ball is played forwards Tottenham win it at the back out to the left down the line into Wendy Martin she picks put Sarah Wilshire bursting forwards her diagonal all aimed for Bianca Baptiste arriving in the box coming in from the right, Charlotte Kerr coming with her from left back does well to get her head on the high ball does enough to stop it falling cleanly to Baptiste the ball dropping to the striker doesn’t get a solid connection as she goes to strike the ball 1st time the ball cleared out to the right side as Tottenham pile players forwards Josie Green looking to fire the ball back into the area is blocked and cleared by the Watford defence.
A fast and bright start to the match from Tottenham as they come forwards, winning a throw on the right Lucia Leon combines with Baptiste the ball worked well between them Leon played into the area on the byline looks to fire a cross in towards goal, the ball intercepted by Samantha Hallsworth put behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good ball played into the middle of the six yard box from the right Watford win the header the ball knocked out to the far post and volleyed clear. The visitors looking to counter attack lose possession Tottenham with a quick turn around the ball finding Baptiste breaking clear on the right charging into the area with the ball shots from the angle the rising ball striking the near post before being deflected out of play.
Hallsworth with a timely interception cuts out an attempted through ball in the middle of the park looking to release Leon. The ball played forwards Watford unable to make it stick it comes back again the long ball out to Baptiste moving clear on the right once more plays a diagonal ball high into the box too much on it for Wiltshire arriving at the far post to keep in play. Katherine Huggins looks to get an attacking move going for Watford on the left side winning the ball plays it inside to Helen Ward before going on looking for the return pass in behind, Ward plays it forwards Ashleigh Neville going with Huggins intercepting the pass.
Frances Kitching in the Watford goal makes a great save off Baptiste as the attacker strikes the all 1st time as it comes to her inside the area. Tottenham are looking strong Neville from right back, Ryah Vyse on the left both getting forwards to support the attack Baptiste and Wiltshire ensuring the play stays spread on either flank too. A couple of Tottenham attacks are halted by the offside flag. Wiltshire though is onside on the left as the ball comes into her run taking it on into the box Kitching comes sliding out to win the ball clattering into Wiltshire as she follows through.
A burst of pace from Adekite Fatuga-Dada on the right for Tottenham leaves her marker in her wake before swinging in a cross into the area coming near post Neville tracking across is there to get her head on the ball to clear. Fatuga-Dada with another attempt to put the ball into the box moments later sees her effort caught by goalkeeper Chloe Morgan. A brief respite for Watford as Tottenham continue to press forwards winning the ball in the middle Coral-Jade Haines breaking up play well supported by Green the Wiltshire and Baptiste ready to break on either wing. Watford get a sniff up the other en as Ward latches onto a sloppy ball at the back 20 yards out lines up a shot her attempt driven straight at Morgan the keeper saving comfortably.
GOAL! 19 minutes played and Tottenham take the lead a great ball from Haines sees Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the left side running clear with the ball into the box hits the shot hard the ball flying over Kitching into the back of the net 1-0.
The ball lost from the restart Tottenham push players forwards an attempted through ball aimed for Wiltshire in the left intercepted by Watford’s Antonia Gregoriou gets the ball back to Kitching to kick up field. An ambitious attempt from Baptiste from all of 35 yards out her strike isn’t too far over the bar as it flies over Kitching. Wiltshire with a high ball into the area from the left wing sees Neville who has covered alot of ground already this evening the furthest forwards at the near post inside the six yard box controls the ball on her thigh before striking it on the volley over the goal.
GOAL! Haines with another fantastic ball finds Neville breaking clear on the right side going on into the box her cross is fired low along the goal faceLucia Leon arriving in the centre putting the ball over the line to score at the 2nd attempt as Watford can’t scramble it clear 2-0 26 minutes on the clock.
Tottenham are dominating coming forwards in waves the Watford defence under pressure the all won’t stick further up the pitch. Baptiste brings the ball on through the centre Leon ahead of her top of the area holds up well shifting the ball out to her right finding room to squeeze a shot away the ball drifting wide of the near post. Baptiste right side with the cross into the area won by Rebecca McShane in the middle the ball up field Haines winning back possession out to Baptiste right down the line a cross from deep claimed by Kitching near post Watford attempt a counter in comes to nothing the ball quickly back up field into Baptiste central she jinks left then right top of the box before pulling her shot wide of the target.
Renee Hector and captain Jenna Schillaci comfortable at the back winning any Watford high balls played forwards. Ward alert to any poor ball at the back however from Tottenham latches onto a pass 20 yards out lines up a shot Haines is quick to race back in from midfield to tackle and deny the chance. Ward moves the ball out to the right outside the box looking for space for a shot getting it away the ball is blocked by Vyse.
Wiltshire in a similar position to where she scored strikes the ball goalwards comes down into the six yard box off the crossbar. Appears to then be put out of play by a Watford defender however the referee despite Tottenham protests signals a goal-kick.
GOAL! Late into the 1st half and Tottenham extend their lead the ball won from a goal kick inside their half taken on to the byline right side and a dangerous cross is fired in along the goal face a yard in from of goal Leon can’t quite reach it in the centre Wiltshire arriving far post can as she meet the ball sending it home for a 3-0 lead right on the stroke of half-time.
Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-0 Watford Ladies
A dominant 1st half from Tottenham a 3-0 lead could well have been more have had Watford on the ropes for much of the half giving the visitors very little of the ball showing great movement when coming forwards. Is only a matter of whether or not they will continue to be so ruthless in the 2nd half or Watford came somehow find a way back into the game.
It’s Tottenham to get the 2nd half started a change for Watford, Kerr off the pitch Linda Afuakwah joining the attack. The home side winning an early corner from the left Kitching with the punch to send the near post delivery over for a corner on the right this one landing in the box bouncing Neville strikes the ball on the volley sending it high over the goal. Watford get the ball forwards Emily Hill with the pass to release Fatuga-Dada on the right Tottenham have the threat covered.
Martin gets onto the end of a loose Watford pass inside the visitors half, McShane stepping out well from the back for to get the tackle in and win the ball, played up through the middle into captain Anneka Nuttall she is brought down in a dangerous position 30 yards from goal a free-kick awarded she picks herself up to take it. Goes for the shot the ball fired over the bar. A sloppy ball at the back for Tottenham falls to Fatuga-Dada on the right comes inside evading a challenge before shooting her effort flying straight into Morgan who takes cleanly in side her six yard box. Tottenham break forwards Baptiste moving to the left holds her run perfectly to stay onside squares it to Wiltshire in the middle looks to move the ball to the right Watford close her down win the ball.
GOAL! A bright start to the 2nd half from Tottenham sees them extend their lead in the 53rd minute Wiltshire with a well taken goal to seal her hat-trick. The Tottenham attack clustered central for a change as the ball is fired into them for distance Leon taking it on into the box looks to have overrun the ball as Kitching goes to ground Wiltshire to her left gets onto the end of the ball opening up her body to curl the ball over the keeper to score 4-0.
Kitching is the busier of the two goalkeepers by far alert she claims the ball at the near post as Baptiste gets a cross in from the byline on the right. Leon picks out Wiltshire getting free on the left her ball into the area whipping over the Watford goal. Tottenham steal in to win possession from a poor Watford ball at the back Leon with the shot her low ball saved by Kitching going to ground. Nuttall with the ball for Watford drives on through the middle space to shot Schillaci is in the way to block the powerful strike.
Baptiste is getting frustrated as she sees chance after chance go begging the ball played into her on the right her low diagonal ball towards goal finds it’s way through the Watford defence runs narrowly wide of the far post. A give and go between Leon and Baptiste at the top of the box right side Leon going on making a near post run pull the trigger as the ball is returned to her Kitching making a brilliant save with her legs to keep the ball out. Tottenham make their 1st change of the night bringing on Katie O’Leary for Martin.
Good defending from Hill at the near post from a Tottenham corner on the right for Watford getting a firm head on the ball. Hallsworth with a good tackle to stop Leon as she attempts to run through into the area with the ball. Kitching called into action making a great save from a Leon header as Baptiste screws a cross in from the byline on the left. The home side continuing to dominate. A corner for Tottenham on the right Kitching coming for the ball near post gets a glove on the ball falls to Wilshire at the top of the area looks to move it to the right appears to be upended appeals for a penalty but the referee waves play on.
Watford make a 2nd change Fatuga-Dada coming off Georgie O’Halloran coming on. Tottenham press the ball played into O’Leary her pass on for Leon not closed down shoots from 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. Baptiste with a strong run on the ball coming into the area from the right stays on her feet as she rides a sliding tackle gets a shot in from close range Kitching saving instinctively with her legs at the near post. A 2nd change for Tottenham Hannah Mackenzie comes on to go into the back-line replacing Schillaci.
Little opportunity for Watford up the other end Hill attempts a shot from all of 35 yards out the ball well over. The visitors working hard in defence as Tottenham keep coming on wanting more goals. Baptiste shes another long range shot whistle narrowly over the crossbar. The final change for Tottenham sees Leon brought off up front to be replaced by Lauren Pickett. Hallsworth in the way to block a strike from Haines the ball coming straight back to the Tottenham midfielder she has her head in her hands as she sees Kitching tip the ball over the bar.
The corner to Tottenham on the right, Watford make their final change before it is taken, Mollie Dench coming on for Gregoriou. The corner played into the six yard box is scrambled away to the top of the box Mackenzie running onto the ball strikes it hard for Tottenham the shot charged down. An injury to Bell as she gets the ball into the box up the other end taking a knock is helped of the pitch to receive treatment all their subs made Watford finish the last 5 minutes of the game with 10 players.
GOAL! Tottenham capitalise getting up the other end to score the ball through the middle picking out Baptiste who has timed her run perfectly her touch putting her clear on into the area central opens up her body to stab the ball wide of Kitching to get the goal her play has deserved at last 5-0.
GOAL! One goal for Baptiste quickly becomes two in the latter stages of the game play stretched Tottenham winning the ball break quickly Baptiste in a central position runs clear towards the area after the ball almost a carbon copy of her 1st goal she has time to open her body once more and steer the ball wide of Kitching as she goes to ground 6-0.
Morgan ensures their no late drama up the other end as she confidently claims a cross flung into the box from the right by Ward. Kitching up the other end coming out to close Wiltshire down as the attacker gets clear into the box from the left for Tottenham the final whistle blows Tottenham winning for the 2nd successive match move up to 5th in the FAWSL 2 table.
Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 6-0 Watford Ladies
A confident and dominant display from Tottenham from start to finish relentless coming forwards and not prepared to give anything away at the other end Haines breaking up play well in the middle as the attackers in front posed a constant threat. One to forget for Watford all they can do as a team is move onto the next one battled hard at the back Kitching with some fine saves but in the end they were well beaten.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
A good all round performance form Tottenham this evening a few contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match have chosen Sarah Wiltshire who showed great movement throughout the match playing wide left getting her hat-trick taking all 3 goals well.
Thanks to Tottenham for their assistance tonight haven’t done a midweek game for a while good to get one in.
Semi-finals this Sunday in Essex in both the Women’s County Cup and Trophy competitions. In the County Cup holders C&K Basildon Ladies are as strong as they have ever been leading the FAWPL Southern Division a bye in the quarter finals they began the defence of the County Cup at the semi-final stage at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies playing 3 league below in the ERWFL Division One South. A big test for Little Thurrock Dynamos an occasion to be enjoyed nevertheless.
Captain Zoe Rushen scoring in the 10th minute to give Basildon the lead, the hosts created further chances didn’t add to their tally a 1-0 advantage at half-time. Therese Addison scoring early in the 2nd half doubled Basildon’s lead before Jay Blackie went on to score a hat-trick. A strong finish to the match seeing Addison and Rushen both score another each with April Bowers also getting on the scoresheet. 9-0 the final score with Blackie adding her 4th of the day in the closing stages.
C&K Basildon’s opponents in this season’s Essex County Cup final will be Brentwood Town Ladies after they over came fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Writtle Ladies on penalties after the sides drew 2-2 after extra-time. 1-1 in the regulation 90 minutes a close game all the way, Writtle taking the lead in extra-time Brentwood Town scoring late on to level it up at 2-2 and take the game into penalties. Marie Barker and Jessica Mills with their goals. Goalkeeper Kelly Warner making to saves in the shootout as Brentwood won 4-2 to reach the final of the competition.
The Essex Women’s County Cup Final to be played at Aveley FC on Thursday March 29th with a 7:45pm kick-off hopefully Women’s Football East will be there.
Essex Women’s Trophy
2 goals for Silver End United Ladies, Megan Jiggins
The semi-finals of the Essex Women’s Trophy were also played this Sunday a new look to the competition this season and it was to one of these where I travelled, Conker Park to watch Silver End United Ladies from the ERWFL Division One North take on the Current holders of the Trophy, Frontier Ladies winning the competition in their 1st season. Just a place between them in the women’s football pyramid it looked to be a close game on paper. Silver End started the better of the 2 sides winning a series of corners before Frontiers got into the game themselves. The score 0-0 until late in the 1st half Silver End capitalised on a error from the Frontiers goalkeeper Rebecca Tyson slipping as she went to strike the ball, Megan Jiggins putting the ball into the empty net from outside the area. Late into the 1st half Silver End doubled their lead, Jiggins again getting in front of the keeper from a corner to turn the ball home to make it 2-0.
Frontiers pushed hard for a goal in the 2nd half eventually getting it back to 2-1 as striker Sharon Ferguson cleverly lobbed goalkeeper Hannah Streetley from distance. Streetley though produced an excellent save to deny Ferguson the equaliser from a corner inside her six yard box. Silver End going on to win the match 2-1 an book their spot in the final.
Silver End United Ladies will meet Hutton Ladies in the Essex Women’s Trophy final after the ERWFL Division One South side beat Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies 6-1 at home to book their final berth on Sunday. Hayley Critchell netting a brace for Hutton along with a goal each for Lucy Blurton, Amy Crumpler, Patrizia Leo and Kaitlin Sugg in a 6-1 win. Megan Harley with the goal for Rayleigh Town.
The Essex Women’s Trophy Final is scheduled to be played Sunday 8th April a 3pm kick-off at Saffron Walden Town FC.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
3 league games played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. 3rd placed Lawford Ladies closing the gap on the top two, Frontiers Ladies and Hatfield Peverel Ladies with a 5-1 away win against Chelmsford City Ladies. Daisy Canny scoring another hat-trick to take her onto 21 for the season. There was also a goal for Jasmine Cox and Tyler Christou against her former club also scored a goal. Georgia Sleep with the goal for Chelmsford City.
Chigwell Ladies 2nd bottom in the table earned a point at home to Eastern Avenue on Sunday in the Premier Division. The hosts leading 1-0 at half time Eastern Avenue coming into the game 2nd half despite a shortage of players to draw 2-2 with goals from Katie Peers and Teliscia Linton. Victoria Parker and Kimmilee Day from the penalty spot scoring the goals for Chigwell.
9th versus 8th in the other Premier Division match played this Sunday with Runwell Sports Ladies hosting Beacon Hill Rovers the scores tied at 1-1 at the break, Rachel Selfe on target for Runwell Sports. Mia Claydon scoring for Beacon Hill Rovers her 1st goal for the club. The game won 10 minutes from time the 3 points going to the hosts as Sophie Olley found the back of the net to score the winner for Runwell Sports who move to within a point of Beacon Hill Rovers.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two matches played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday, Southend United Ladies move into 2nd spot in the table level on points with leaders Hullbridge Sports Ladies as they won away to Benfleet Villa Ladies. Georgia Raby netting a brace for the visitors, with Melissa Burton also getting a goal in a 3-0 win all the goals coming in the 2nd half.
FC Clacton Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on bottom side Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. A comfortable win for Clacton collecting the 3 points with an 8-2 result lifting them up a place to 9th in the Division One table. Monique Black and Kelsey Honeywood scoring the goals for Chelmsford City.
