Weather affected the fixture list across the county leagues in Essex this Sunday with just the 4 matches taking place. The top two Hatfield Peverel Ladies and Frontiers Ladies seeing their games called off in the Essex Women’s Premier Division it was a chance for the chasing sides to try and gain some ground. 3rd placed Lawford Ladies were at home to 7th placed Corringham Cosmos who along with Frontiers are unbeaten in the league with a number of games in hand. The visitors having a narrow lead at half-time 1-0 to the good a tight game between the pair saw the points shared in the finish Corringham scoring another goal, Lawford responded with 2 in the 2nd half Jasmine Cox getting them both. Madison Hubbard and Chloe Sams netting the goals for Corringham who move up 2 placed to 5th in the table.
Also moving up a place in the Essex Women’s Premier Division after Sunday’s results are Collier Row Tigers moving from 5th into 4th position. Were away taking on Eastern Avenue a comfortable 1st half seeing the visitors leading 3-0 2 more goals were added in the 2nd period 5 different goalscorers in Collier Row Tigers 5-0 win, Laura Bunton with another goal top scorer for the club moving onto 18. There were goals too for Daisy Chapman, Emma Harrison, Rebecca Killington ad Helen Moreira.
At the other end of the Premier Division table a complete turn around of form for 10th placed Harlow Town Ladies as they won their 2nd successive league match on Sunday their 3 win in a row in total including the cup. At home to Chigwell Ladies the side immediately below them a brace from Tegan Burling along with a goal each for Charlotte Bolton, Mollie Rose and Amber Strows seeing Harlow to a comfortable 5-0 win.
Essex Women’s Division One
All but one game was called off in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday. Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves were on the road taking on Alresford Colne Rangers a close 1st half saw the sides drawing 0-0, Brentwood getting the better of the 2nd half. Georgia Holdaway scoring a hat-trick. Emma Mackie and Chloe Wilkinson were also both on target in a 5-0 away win the result moving Brentwood up the table from 6th to 4th.
The weather wasn’t too wonderful in Norfolk this Sunday some postponements saw a reduced fixture list as with most other county leagues across the East just 4 games played plenty of goals scored however as the tussle at the top of Division One remains very tight.
With league leaders Bungay Town Ladies not in action, 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies took full advantage with a win at home to take them level on 22 points with the leaders. Hosting bottom side Long Stratton Ladies goals from Chelsea Brister and Rebecca Kirby along with a hat-trick for top scorer Victoria Leyer seeing Sprowston win the match 5-0 to put pressure on Bungay.
Gorleston FC Ladies returned to winning ways at the weekend picking up a good result away to Stalham Town Ladies to climb above them into 4th place in the Division One table. Goals from Rosie Cook, Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake securing a 3-1 win for Gorleston. All very tight in the middle of the table however with just 2 points separating the sides placed 4th to 7th.
6th and 7th met at the weekend ended up swapping places in the Division One table sharing 10 goals between them. Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves hosting North Walsham Angels Ladies. Emily Anderson, Gemma Hamilton-Rout, Louise Hamilton-Rout and Sally Hammerton all on the scoresheet for the home side despite scoring 4 goals however it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as North Walsham hit six into the back of their opponents net to win the game 6-4! Emma Faux with a brace, there were goals to for Charlotte Darvill, Mary-Ann Hoy, Luci Middleton and Hannah Sturman.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Just the one game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend a good result for Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies at home as they recorded their 3rd league win of the season against Freethorpe Ladies to move up a spot back into 6th place in the table. Keira Brown scoring her 1st goals for Bure Valley Wildcats since joining the club earlier in the season, finding the back of the net for 4 out of the home sides 5 goals, Carrie Last also on target in a 5-1 win. Keira Squires with the 1st half goal for Freethorpe.
A postponement hit fixture list across the whole of the ERWFL this weekend seeing just the 4 games being played on Sunday. One game in the Premier Division with AFC Sudbury Ladies hosting Bedford Ladies. Stacey Teager scoring for the hosts the side having to settle for a share of the points in a 1-1 draw. Is enough to move Bedford Ladies up above Writtle Ladies into 4th place in the table.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North, 2nd placed Wymondham Town Ladies extend their unbeaten run to 10 games as they move to within 2 points of leaders King’s Lynn Town Ladies with their 9th win away to Ipswich Town Ladies Development on Sunday. Alice Ladbrooke scoring late in the 1st half to give Wymondham Town the 1st half lead. Chelsea Clarke was on target early on on the 2nd half to double the advantage to the visitors. Cassandra Craddock pulling it back to 2-1 with 15 minutes left gave Ipswich Town a chance of a comeback, however Wymondham Town’s top scorer, Laura Nicholls made the result save with a little over 5 minutes left to play. Wymondham Town looking strong with 3 games in hand on the leaders.
ERWFL Division One South
In ERWFL Division One South, 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies saw their 100% winning start to the season come to an end last weekend at home to Harlow Town Ladies losing 6-2 got back to winning ways this Sunday away to Bishops Stortford Ladies, not that they got off to the best of starts Bishops Stortford getting a 2-0 lead. The Essex side coming back into the game reducing the deficit to 2-1 before half-time whistle went on to dominate the 2nd half winning the game 6-3. Georgia Fraser the clubs top scorer this season adding another brace to her tally of 13 goals. Ebony Moore, Kerri Thomas and captain Abbie Simmonds were also on target with a goal each along with Danielle Styles but along with scoring she was also red carded in the match. Brooke White scoring a brace for Bishops Stortford with Rebekah Coppen also on target.
A great result for bottom side Hertford Town Ladies at the weekend as they picked up just their 2nd league win of the season away to Harlow Town Ladies. Sarah Walker captaining Harlow Town scoring in the 14th minute. Hertford Town going on to win the match 2-1, Bilge Taspinar and Donna Watts with the goals.
An all Southern Division clash in the quarter finals of the FAWPL Cup this weekend with league leaders, Charlton Athletic Women hosting 4th placed Lewes FC Women, an intriguing tie on paper both going strong in cup competitions up to date something had to give this Sunday. In their 3 previous cup ties in both the FAWPL Cup and FA Women’s Cup, Charlton away from home each time had progressed via extra-time. Lewes drew first blood Sarah Kempson finding the back of the net to put the visitors into a 21st minute lead. Charlton coming back to level with 7 minutes of the 1st half left. Chances came and went for both sides the score tied 1-1 for the 4th time in a row Charlton were heading into extra-time. This time though the result didn’t go their way as Lewes booked their place in the competitions last four with an extra-time winner coming 5 minutes into the 2nd period of extra play, it was Kempson with her 2nd of the game to seal a memorable win. 3 more ties to be played the semi-final draw will follow.
FAWPL Plate
It was also quarter finals day in the FAWPL Plate competition, Luton Town Ladies home tie against fellow South East Division One side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies falling foul of the weather. Southern Division West Ham United Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on South West Division One side, Keynsham Town Ladies. A early goal from Kelly Weathall in the 5th minutes settling West Ham down. Leanne Mabey striking in the 18th minute to double the home sides lead. A devastating spell of 3 goals in 7 minutes on the half hour putting West Ham in full control of the game, Mabey with her 2nd of the game was rapidly followed up with a quick fire double from Amber Stobbs. 5-0 the lead at half-time West Ham added 2 more goals to their tally inside the last 10 minutes Stobbs going on to complete her hat-trick with Molly Peters also on target in a 7-0 win sending West Ham into the FAWPL Plate semi-finals. Also joining West Ham United Ladies in the last 4 are Northern Division side, Flyde Ladies who beat Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies 5-1 and Hull City Ladies 2nd in Northern Division One who beat fellow league side Chorley Ladies 4-0 on Sunday.
FAWPL Southern Division
With Charlton Athletic Women involved in the FAWPL Cup, 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies took full advantage winning away to Queens Park Rangers Ladies to go top of the table for the 1st time in their history. It was Queens Park Rangers who started brightly however taking the lead in the 4th minute, Cherelle Albert opening her account after recently returning to the club having previously been with Watford Ladies. Basildon were back on level terms in the 15th minute with Jay Blackie scoring the goal to make it 1-1. That the half-time score Basildon strong at the start of the 2nd half went on to take the lead in the 67th minute, Angela Addison getting the goal. Addison scoring again 6 minutes later to make it 3-1 with her 20th goal of the season. That the final score takes Basildon a point clear at the top of the Southern Division table.
In the other match played in the FAWPL Southern Division at the weekend Gillingham Ladies left it late as they earned a point at home to Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday. The sides 9th & 10th in the table playing out a goalless first half it was the visitors Cardiff City who took the lead midway through the 2nd half, Zoe Atkins netting the goal. 2 minutes into injury time Gillingham came back to level the scores striker Kallie Balfour sending the ball home to make it 1-1.
FAWPL South East Division One
Three games postponed in FAWPL South East Division One on Sunday, only two surviving, league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home to bottom club Haringey Borough Women. Georgia Heasman striking in just the 2nd minute to put Wimbledon into the lead. Haringey got themselves back level, Julia Carruthers scoring to make it 1-1. Wimbledon retaking the lead midway through the 1st half, Kelly-Jade Whelan with the goal to make it 2-1. Again Haringey came back though Brooke Hills sending the ball home from a 25 yard free-kick. 2-2 the sides drawing at half time. A different story 2nd half however as Haringey suffering from a couple of injuries could hold Wimbledon back no longer Two early goals in the 2nd half putting the home side 4-2 up, Jess Trimnell and Laura Quinn-Low on target. Hannah Searle scored 2 in two minutes to make it 6-2. Heasman scoring her 2nd of the game to make it 7-2 on 65 minutes. Into the last 20 minutes Rebecca Sargeant added a goal to make it 8-2. Hannah Billingham getting herself a brace along with Quinn-Low also scoring her 2nd hand Heasman completing her hat-trick in a resounding 12-2 win that takes Wimbledon into an 8 point lead at the top of the table.
In the other game to beat the weather in the FAWPL Southern Division, Enfield Town Ladies were at home to Cambridge United WFC in the A10 derby. Cambridge were giving a debut to goalkeeper Savannah Smith as well as Megan Todd who joins from ERWFL Premier Division side Acle United Ladies their top scorer with 15 goals. It was just the 1 goal that would see all 3 points won this Sunday. Stavroulla Panayiotou the scorer for Enfield in the 36th minute. Despite chances for Cambridge the hosts held on to claim all 3 points moves them to with in a point of 6th placed Cambridge.
A first for Women’s Football East as FAWSL 1 makes it’s debut. Today’s game on a Saturday afternoon see’s Birmingham City Ladies hosting Chelsea Ladies at the Autotech Stadium in Solihull.
Only new to this platform however as I have covered numerous FAWSL matches via my old Supporting Women’s Football Blog prior to turning all my focus to Women’s Football in the East of England, still I always intended to continue my coverage of the FAWSL just have needed a break with various thing’s going on, have missed it however and looking forwards to today’s match.
The FAWSL switching to the winter season to fall back in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid. Entering another transitional period with a restructuring of the league new licencing rules and being opened up to new applicants the top tier requiring to be 100% professional come the new season. Huge challenges lay ahead.
The season closing in on the halfway mark, Manchester City Women leading the way 2 unbeaten two points ahead of Chelsea Ladies themselves also unbeaten from 8 played. A win this afternoon will put Emma Hayes side top of the table for a few hours at least with Manchester City taking on 3rd placed Liverpool Ladies on Sunday. Anita Asante the clubs latest signing the England International having had a successful few years playing in Sweden.
Birmingham City Ladies sit in 5th place in the table, Marc Skinner taking over from David Parker in charge of the 1st team. 10 points from the 8 games they’ve played so far winning 3 and drawing one with 4 loses a tough challenge today against Chelsea a win will put Birmingham right behind the top for well placed to push on in the 2nd half of the season. Have German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger back between the sticks after she was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the season having made a successful recovery.
The Automated Technology Stadium the venue for today’s game a cold and wet February day heavy rain on the way from Norfolk but settling down to a steady drizzle blowing strongly across the pitch cover at the ground behind both goals a wide pitch the mainstand housing the bar and changing room covered too. I’ve missed Birmingham’s burger van quite possibly the best in the FAWSL. But it isn’t quite the same without the ice cream van parked beside the pitch, not that I was craving a cornetto.
Birmingham City Ladies starting XI – Ann-Katrin Berger, Jess Carter, Meaghan Sargeant, Aoife Mannion, Kerys Harrop (C), Sarah Mayling, Hayley Ladd, Charlie Wellings, Marisa Ewers, Emma Follis & Ellen White. Subs – Hannah Hampton, Paige Williams, Abby-Leigh Stringer, Emily Westwood, Maddy Cusack, Lucy Quinn & Freda Ayisi.
Chelsea Ladies starting XI – Hedvig Lindhal, Maria Thorisdottir, Hannah Blundell, Anita Asante, Millie Bright, Ji So-Yun, Katie Chapman (C), Drew Spence, Crystal Dunn, Fran Kirby & Romana Bachmann. Subs – Carly Telford, Gemma Davison, Karen Carney, Maren Mjelde, Jonna Andersson & Erin Cuthbert.
It’s the home side to kick-off the 1st half, Birmingham all in blue with Chelsea lied up opposite in their all white away kit. A couple of balls a launched forwards by Birmingham runners testing the Chelsea back line. Charlie Wellings looking to make progress on the left Maria Thorisdottir defends for Chelsea. The visitors pressing up as a unit early on the ball played across their defence left to right Hannah Blundell sweeping an early cross into the Birmingham box, runners closing in no one can get on the end of it. Emma Follis picks up the ball for Birmingham taking it on attempts the through ball for Ellen White, Millie Bright intercepts and plays it back for goalkeeper Hedvig Lindhal to clear.
Birmingham City Ladies, Charlie Wellings
Blundell with a strong run down the right getting to the byline her high looping cross lands on the top of the Birmingham crossbar, the assistants flag raised play is stopped for offside. Thorisdottir with the pass left side on for Kirby she powers her way towards the box a vital tackle from Meaghan Sargeant to deny her a shooting opportunity the ball sent behind at a cost however as the defender collides with on rushing goalkeeper, Katrin-Ann Berger. A break in play as Sargeant receives treatment on the pitch.
The corner ball from the left is played in short as Ji So-Yun comes wanting the ball her pass played up towards the top of the area the cross flashed in towards the far post Kerys Harrop, Birmingham’s captain heading the ball out of the area Chelsea retain possession played into Anita Asante 20 yards out she shoots slightly scuffing the effort the ball skipping off the surface on target an outstretched Birmingham leg diverting it away from goal before being cleared. Chelsea have started well.
Chelsea Ladies, Anita Asante
Birmingham look to bring the ball on through the middle, Sarah Mayling coming forwards Follis gives her a forwards run, she tries to play the ball into her, Millie Bright coming across defends well for Chelsea. More good build up play from Birmingham, White picking up the ball right side comes down the line her pass inside for Mayling she sends it on across the field into Marisa Ewers sprinting down the left wing she picks out Follis at the top of the area left side of goal fires the shot in low, Hedvig Lindhal getting down well inside her six yard box to smother the ball.
Chelsea’s Drew Spence battling Birmingham’s Jess Carter for possession of the ball
Crystal Dunn coming forwards on the left sends her pass on for Fran Kirby breaking in behind the Birmingham defence taking the ball into the area takes the ball past Berger as she dives at her feet in an attempt to get to the ball. Kirby’s progress is halted by a raised flag. Bright defends well again up against Ewers as Aoife Mannion plays the ball out from the back for Birmingham, the visitors counter attacking with purpose, Romana Bachmann is played through taking the ball into the area looks to try and take it past Berger and get a shot away, the goalkeeper doing well diving at her feet ad snatching out a glove to pull the ball safely into her body.
GOAL! Chelsea have pressed Birmingham closing anyone down quickly as the home side have possession Mayling is caught out as Kirby steals in to knock the ball past her run towards the area Dunn alert on the left Kirby sends the ball out to her heading into the box Dunn’s shot blocked Kirby is there to send her shot past Berger into the goal beyond 0-1.
Fran Kirby makes it 1-0 to Chelsea Ladies.
Chelsea are squeezing the pitch defending on the halfway line at times giving Birmingham very little room alot of space to exploit behind if they can pick out their strikers that though isn’t easy their defence given no time on the ball. White attempts to get clear on half-way, is tracked by Asante the defender putting in the tackle to win the ball. Great control from So-Yun as the ball comes ta her quickly her pass putting Kirby in behind the Birmingham defence, Berger coimng to close the attacker down makes a fantastic save at her feet.
White with good footwork in the middle takes the ball on picking out Wellings making a good break down the right wing her cross swung in near post is claimed confidently by Lindhal. Chelsea get the ball up the other end Dunn left side her cross flashed across the six yard box, Bachmann can’t connect far post the ball coming to Blundell just outside the area right side hits a strong shot in low towards goal Berger diving making an excellent save.
Birmingham City Ladies, Ellen White
Berger the busier of the two goalkeepers saves at the near post as Bachmann linking up with Dunn on the left sends the ball in near post. A rare opportunity for White inside the Chelsea area doing well as she picks up possession in the opposition half left side is closed down by three Chelsea players can’t get the ball in the chance gone Chelsea are quickly on the move the ball worked up field on the left a high ball into the area falling to Drew Spence she blazes her strike over the bar. Chelsea are certainly on top in the opening half hour Spence powerful on the ball winning it central comes in Bachmann ahead of her lays the ball on her shot it driven in towards goal from the edge of the area Berger with another great save diving to her left to deny her a goal.
Chelsea Ladies, Romana Bachmann
Dunn breaking with the ball on left comes forwards cuts inside as Buchmann moves out of the way taking a defender with her the U.S international shooting the ball heading near post Berger saving again is keeping Birmingham in the game right now. Opportunities up the other end limited White doing her best to find some space drifts out wide Thorisdottir in to tackle and win the ball. A throw deep on the left nice work between Jess Carter, Mayling and White the pass into Ewers looking to strike the ball from the top of the area looses her footing as Chelsea swarm in to close her down.
Spence win the crossfield ball for captain Katie Chapman on for Blundell breaking up the line her pass into Kirby, Mannion closing her down wins the ball back for Birmingham. Bachmann breaking clear in injury time sees her cross flash wide across the face of goal.
Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-1 Chelsea Ladies
A dominant display from Chelsea in the 1st half composed and confident working well as a unit squeezing the pitch everyone working well to close the ball down not affording anytime on the ball for Birmingham. Kirby opening the scoring and had it not been for some excellent stops from goalkeeper Berger, then the visitors might well be going into the changing room at the break with a bigger lead, as it stands at just the one goal Birmingham are far from out of it. Chances at the other end limited however Follis’ shot Lindhal’s only real test.
A change for the home side at half-time Sargeant coming off to be replaced by Paige Williams at left back. It’s Chelsea to get the 2nd half underway. Carter with some early defending to do does well as Spence breaks forwards into the box for Chelsea. The visitors keeping Birmingham pinned back in their own half. Kirby getting free on the left side takes the ball on, cries out in frustration as she see puts to much on her cross into the area with Bachmann and Spence making near and far post runs.
Follis gets forwards with ball closing in on the Chelsea area left side lays the ball back for Hayley Ladd positioned centrally she lays the ball out to Williams running down the wing her cross in deep towards the far post falls to Wellings can’t get enough on the ball to bring it down under control and shot Chelsea in to clear up the pitch. Thorisdottir putting her head on the ball inside the area to clear a Birmingham set-piece played in from the left. A tidy spell for Birmingham White stealing in to win the ball makes a jinking run forwards giving her room for a shot from 20 yards out her effort flashing wide across goal. The danger of having just a single goal lead 1 strike and Birmingham are back level.
Hayley Ladd getting her head on the ball for Birmingham
Dunn gets away down the left her ball forwards towards Bachmann making a run into the area is just about intercepted by Ewers tracking back for Birmingham. Chelsea maintain their pressing game no one at the back for Birmingham allowed any time on the ball what so ever forcing misplaced passes. Great defending from Harrop for Birmingham inside the box as Chelsea push on down the right Dunn moving the ball between her feet on into Kirby at the top of the box her through ball central aiming for Bachmann the Birmingham captain close to her gets hold of the ball.
Birmingham City Ladies captain, Kerys Harrop with Chelsea’s Hannah Blundell.
Dunn is impressive on the left side for Chelsea getting hold of the ball taking players on flashes a cross long across the six yard box. Dunn fed in again by Chapman plays a diagonal ball forwards into the area Bachmann with the run, Berger getting down claims the ball first. Blundell on the move down the right her pass inside for Kirby 25 yards out lays the ball across to Dunn moving into the area her effort is blocked by Carter.
Crystal Dunn attacking for Chelsea Ladies
Williams comes forwards with the ball on the left for Birmingham plays it on for Follis coming across to receive the ball bringing it inside puts it into White standing just inside the area she shoots first time the ball straight at Lindhal the keeper holding onto the ball. Chelsea make their 1st change, Bachmann the player coming off, Erin Cuthbert going on up front. Birmingham are having a few half chances White finding a little wriggle room now at the back threatens to break clear Asante recovers well however making up the ground to put in the blocking tackle as the striker goes to shoot.
Kerys Harrop, leaves Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert in a heap as she wins the ball
Dunn plays the ball into Cuthbert outside the area she is upended giving Chelsea the free-kick in a dangerous position. So-Yun over the ball strikes it hard past the Birmingham wall drags her effort wide of Berger’s goal. Spence gets clear as she moves to the left charging on with the ball squares it into the area a vital cut out by Harrop as Cuthbert was free behind her.
GOAL! Into the final 20 minutes and Chelsea double their advantage pushing players forwards as they attack the ball taken to the byline by Dunn her cross into the area evades everyone somehow comes racing out to the top left corner, Kirby has the sense to get out of the way So-Yun coming onto the ball in a much better position strikes it with a peach of a left foot the ball whistling past Berger into the top corner 0-2.
South Korean international, Ji So-Yun makes it 2-0 to Chelsea
Emma Hayes makes a change straight after the goal bringing off Spence and sending on bring on Norwegian international, Maren Mjelde. Birmingham come forwards Ladd with support from Follis looking to play a one two Bright reads it well for Chelsea getting in to win the ball. Berger pulls off another outstanding save as Chelsea break with purpose Dunn away on the left rolling the ball into the path of Cuthbert making a central run the goalkeeper getting down to stop the shot.
A change from both sides Wellings coming off for Birmingham is replaced by Lucy Quinn. So-Yun coming off for Chelsea, Karen Carney the visitors final substitution. Bright with a superb long range pass forwards for Cuthbert the young Scottish attacker bringing the ball down well on her chest striking the falling ball towards goal from 20 yards out her shot straight at Berger the keeper with another confident save. Birmingham make their final change Abbey-Leigh Stringer on for Mayling.
Dunn continuing her good work down the left runs clear firing in a cross towards Carney at the near post closed down quickly by Carter and Mannion can’t wriggle free of the pair to get a shot away. Mjelde with a strike from outside the box sees her effort fly wide of the target as the game moves into injury time. Cuthbert has the ball in the back of the net late on the flag up for offside before she has struck the ball however. A late late corner for Birmingham the ball whips in by Williams is headed off the line by Chapman as the final whistle blows and Chelsea keep a clean sheet the 2-0 win taking them to the top of the table.
Full time Birmingham City Ladies 0-2 Chelsea Ladies
A great team performance from Chelsea dominant pressing the ball really well putting Birmingham under constant pressure at the back impressive on the ball it was the work they did off that really stood out today. Squeezing play up at times potentially left them exposed if Birmingham could have found a way through their attackers making sure no one settled on the ball. Berger’s saves kept Birmingham in the game and 2nd half all the while it was just a single goal lead the hosts created opportunities, Chelsea needed that 2nd goal. Birmingham despite being under constant pressure at the back did defend really well.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
A good display from Chelsea today so naturally today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to one of their players a good all round performance, Bright has improved no end since joining Chelsea doing well leading the back line today going forwards with some superb runs and always ready to receive the ball I have chosen Crystal Dunn was outstanding on the left today.
Crystal Dunn
Good to get some FAWSL 1 action in at last the weather might not have been as good as my previous trips to the Automated Technology Stadium but the football was excellent my thanks to Birmingham for their assistance today.
The 11th WOBURN & WAVENDON LIONESSES ‘SUPER SIXES’
23-24th June 2018
WOBURN VILLAGE HALL PLAYING FIELDS
CRAWLEY ROAD, WOBURN, BEDS, MK17 9QD
Dear Club Secretary/Manager
We would like to invite you to the Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses annual 6 a-side girls football tournament on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June 2018.
Our 2017 tournament proved to be our most successful yet. We were privileged to be an FA and McDonalds sponsored Community football event, one of only three in England. This helped secure our position as one of, if not the largest, girls only tournament in Southern England. We regularly attract teams from as far afield as Birmingham, London and Cambridge, however in 2017 we were also joined by seven teams from the Cardiff Bluebelles and were delighted to host our first international team, ASV Hagsfeld from Germany!
This year’s tournament will have sections at every age group from Under 8’s up to Under 18’s, and we will also have a competition for Ladies teams.
Woburn & Wavendon Super Sixes is a great day out for all the family. If you’ve never been to a big tournament then this is the one for you! We’ll help you with the organisation and will make sure that, even if you have a less experienced team, they will have a great time! We also stick to each age group being half a day. Our youngest age groups may like to note that the World famous Woburn Safari Park is just a few minutes away to complete your day in Bedfordshire.
From previous years’ experience you will need to register as early as possible, as a number of age groups will be oversubscribed.
The U8 and U9 event will be run as a non-competitive event. In these age groups all players will receive a medal. All other age groups will play 6 a-side competition rules with a maximum of 10 players per team. Teams will be in groups of 6 and therefore will play a minimum of five games in either the morning or afternoon. Qualified referees will officiate in all games.
Confirmation and further details will be sent to you once entries are closed. The organisers do reserve the right to refuse applications and a reminder that no girls who have played for or are signed for an FA Centre of Excellence on the tournament date are permitted to play club football by the FA. Age groups for the tournament are those that applied in England for grassroots clubs for season 2017/2018. Teams from outside England please contact us for any assistance.
One game played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and it was a big result for Harlow Town Ladies Reserves as they win in the league for the 1st time this season to move off the bottom of the table. Away to 5th placed Chelmsford City Ladies drawing 1-1 at half-time Harlow getting the winning goal in the 2nd half to claim all 3 points, Rebecca Pope and Mollie Rose the players getting their goals. Lisa Overall with the 1st half goal for Chelmsford City.
Essex Women’s Division One
In Essex Women’s Division One with league leaders Hullbridge Sports Ladies involved in the League Cup this Sunday 2nd placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies had the chance to return to the top of the table as they travelled to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves, the 6th placed side able to name a strong squad this weekend good the right result too winning the contest 4-1 with their goals scored by Sophie Lovell, Emma Mackie, Chloe Wilkinson and Georgia Holdaway.
That defeat for Leigh Ramblers saw 3rd placed Southend United Ladies move to within a point as they won comfortably away from home on Sunday playing Billericay Town Ladies Reserves. 2 goals in each half seeing them to a 4-0 victory, Emily Pert the clubs top scorer moving onto 12 goals for the season with a brace. Sophie Smith and Lily-Maree Halliday also claiming a goal each.
5th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies are rampart in front of goal as for the 2nd successive game they scored 15 times in a match with 14 goals scored in the game before that too! Captain Isabelle Wallings more often than not the top scorer in a game adding another 5 to her tally this Sunday away to FC Clacton Ladies. Holly Gash and Megan Harvey both getting a hat-trick. A brace for Eleasha Reeves along with a goal each for Jorja Killington and Lily Aungier.
Essex Women’s League Cup
4 ties played this Sunday in the Essex Women’s League Cup, holder Corringham Cosmos seeing their away game against fellow Premier Division side Eastern Avenue postponed. Elsewhere the action was from the 2nd Round. Hullbridge Sports Ladies leading Essex Division One were away to fellow league side Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday. Hullbridge’s Broghan Kelly’s impressive form in front of goal continuing as she netted another hat-trick taking her onto 35 goals from just 13 appearances. Danni Dorrington, Patricia McWeeney and Sophie Fuller all getting a goal each to in a comfortable 6-0 win to put Hullbridge through to the quarter finals.
Premier Division leaders Hatfield Peverel Ladies also have a striker in red hot form as they hosted Division One side Walden Ladies in the 2nd Round of the league Cup on Sunday, Yasmin Cowley with another 1st half hat-trick added added another in the 2nd half to ease Hatfield Peverel into the quarter finals with a 4-1 win. 33 goals from 12 appearances for Cowley now.
An all Premier Division tie in the 2nd Round of the League Cup saw Runwell Sports Ladies hosting Frontiers Ladies. A closer game this one a goal in each half for Runwell Sports from Danielle Stace and Bobbi Cubberly it was Frontiers who progressed to the quarter finals however winning the tie 3-2 courtesy of a brace from Sharon Ferguson along with a goal from Kelly Holsworth to win 3-2.
In the final 2nd Round tie played in the League Cup in Essex this weekend their was an upset as Division One side Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies knocked out Premier Division side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. The sides drawing 2-2 after 90 minutes the tie heading into extra-time both were on target with another goal 3-3, A brace from Fran Pridie along with a goal for Daisy Theobald for home side Dagenham & Redbridge. Marie Hall, Ella Jones and Abigail Hawkins getting the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers the tie went all the way to penalties. Dagenham & Redbridge winning the shootout 4-3 to progress into the quarter finals.
The draw for the Essex Women’s League Cup quarter finals is as follows:-
Hatfield Peverel Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies Reserves
Lawford Ladies v Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies
Eastern Avenue or Corringham Cosmos v Hullbridge Sports Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership leaders, Netherton United Ladies were finally back in action having not played since the first weekend of the year, then they suffered just their 2nd defeat of the season away to St Ives Town Ladies, amongst those hoping to challenge them for the title come the end of the season. Their lead has been closed at little the sides below having games in hand but remains a healthy 7 points, returning to league action this Sunday got back to winning ways with a big win at home to Cambridge University Women. Jenna Nairn putting Netherton 1-0 up inside 5 minutes and own goal doubling the home sides lead 10 minutes later. Megan Strickland and Yasmin Green then scored to make it 4-0 the lead at half-time, Lori Van Raemdonck scoring her 1st goal for Netherton. An own goal saw Cambridge University reduce the deficit 2 minutes into the 2nd half. Netherton were soon back amongst the goals, Green going on to score a hat-trick with Emily Johnson adding a brace in the final 10 minutes too to see Netherton United move onto 30 points with a 9-1 win.
Newmarket Town Ladies are Netherton’s closest rivals moving back into 2nd place in the Premiership table with a home win against Cambridge City Ladies Development who they beat in the same fixture 4-1 two weeks ago. A closer game Bella Simmons giving Cambridge City an early lead. Jordanne Sillitoe getting Newmarket back on level terms 10 minutes later the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time. Sillitoe getting her 2nd of the game with 15 minutes left to secure the 2-1 win for Newmarket have 2 games in hand on Netherton.
ICA Sports Ladies move back into 4th in the Premiership table with victory away to bottom side Park Ladies this Sunday. A close first half the sides drawing 2-2 going into the changing rooms a different story 2nd half as ICA Sports came forwards scoring 5 goals to win 7-2 to claim the 3 points. Lorna Hart on target for 2 goals. Jessica Farchina, Carmen Herridge, Hayley Jones and Donna Nicholls all getting their names on the scoresheet too.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Two ties played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup on Sunday, it was game on at the 3rd attempt between Histon Ladies and Wisbech Town Ladies at the Glassworld Stadium on Sunday. Wisbech Town playing 2 leagues below Histon taking the lead 20 minutes into the 1st half Sophie Gutteridge with the goal. Histon had an opportunity to equalise from the penalty spot the ball saved. Late in the half the hosts did find a leveller Alison Wright seeing the sides go in drawing 1-1 at half-time. Histon started the 2nd half strongly going in front as the game approached the hour Tessa Shaw scoring to make it 2-1. Wisbech Town drew back level just 4 minutes later Josie Turner the goalscorer. Histon pushing for another goal retook the lead with 20 minutes left Katie Seagrave finding the back of the net and late into the game secured the win Siobhan White making it 4-2 to send Histon into the next round.
Championship South side, Isleham United Ladies were hosting Premiership side March Town United Ladies in the Invitation Cup on Sunday. March in control of the game leading 3-0 at half-time went onto double their tally in the 2nd half making it through to the next round with a 6-1 win. Shannon Shaw on the scoresheet with 4 goals taking her onto 14 for the season, Shannon Kelly and Emma Searle scoring too for March Town. Laura Todd with the 2nd half strike for Isleham United.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Three matches in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South on Sunday, leaders Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds finding themselves in trouble at half-time away to 3rd placed St Ives Town Ladies trailing 3-0. A complete turnaround in the 2nd half however as Fulbourn came back to win the match 4-3 to maintain their 3 point lead at the top of the table. Top scorer Marie Stubbings moving onto 32 goals for the season with a brace. Katie Luddy and Sarah Gee also scoring a goal a piece.
Defeat for St Ives Town Ladies Development saw Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves keep hold of 3rd spot in the table on goal difference after they had won earlier in the day away to Cambridge Rangers Women. Abbi Griffin putting the visitors in front inside 5 minutes an own goal extending the lead midway through the 1st half, Cassandra Carvalheiro netting a 3rd goal before half-time. Cambridge Rangers brought it back to 3-1 12 minutes into the 2nd half. Newmarket Town went on to find the back of the net for 3 more goals to win the game 6-1. Amanda Stacy, Dominika Szary and Hollie Turner getting their goals.
2nd placed Histon Ladies Reserves keep up the pressure on Fulbourn winning away from home on Sunday against bottom side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Philippa Hayden-Evans getting her 13th and 14th goals of the season along with strikes for Daniella Briggs and Sophie Wing in a 4-1 victory. Vicky Murrell scoring the goal for Burwell Tigers.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
One game from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup group stages this weekend in Group D, Riverside Ladies were playing their 1st game in the competition at home to Spalding United Ladies who were also playing their 1st match. A big win for Riverside puts them straight to the top of the group. Samantha Woodham scoring 4 goals in the match, Jess Hill one goal behind with a hat-trick. Ronela Mardosaite claiming a brace with a goal each for Sophie Harris, Dionne Lawton and Jade Ramm in a 12-1 win.
Houghton Athletic Ladies are through to the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup semi-finals as they beat opponents Luton Town Ladies Development on Sunday the sides meeting again after the game was abandoned the weekend before due to a serious injury to Houghton Athletic’s Ciara Craig. Houghton Athletic had just the bare 11 available for the game. Shakeela Hussain scoring the only goal of the game to secure the win for the Beds & Herts Division One side. Houghton Athletic will be the underdogs away to ERWFL Premier Division side Bedford Ladies in the semi-final.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Postponements across all three divisions with no games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One at all. In Division Two 3 matches were played. League leaders Garston Ladies 2nd XI were on home turf on Sunday taking on Hitchin Belles. Despite 2 goals from Gemma Smith for Hitchin Belles, Garston won for the 7th time this season to maintain their 3 point lead at the top. A 3-2 win for the hosts, Lauren Berryman, Leah Crockett and Maddie Gorton scoring the goals.
Royston Town Ladies Development and Hitchin Town Ladies met again for the 2nd weekend running the sides 3rd and 4th in the table enjoying another close high scoring match. Last Sunday, Hitchin Town came out on top winning 4-2. Conditions similar for both games a muddy surface it was Royston Town who celebrated the win this time around again 4-2 the final score. Sammy Tinsley grabbing a brace, with goals too for Grace Leslie and Amie Jones. Lifting Royston Town back up to 2nd in the Division Two table. Emma Chaffey and Jessica McNamara on target for Hitchin Town Ladies.
A big away win for Letchworth Garden City Eagles too on Sunday in Division Two away to bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. the 5th placed side securing their 4th league win of the season, Natalie Moey scoring a hat-trick for the 2nd successive game for Letchworth. Tayla Murray also getting a brace along with a goal for Ellie Watson in a 6-2 win. Amy Gibbins and Sally Green scoring for Woburn & Wavendon.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One game beat the weather in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday 3rd placed Welwyn Pegasus Azures at home to bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies. The two sides sharing the points with a 2-2 draw. Senal Chapman and Janiece Allen on target for Welwyn Pegasus. A 2nd point on the board for Potters Bar with Lauren Englefield and Charlotte Caswell getting the goals.
A switch of venue saw Norfolk Division One leaders, Bungay Town Ladies travelling to 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies on Sunday the hosts back in league action for the 1st time since the opening weekend of 2017. Games in hand on Bungay, Thorpe trail the league leaders by 9 points but have played 3 games less. A challenge with Bungay undefeated in league and cup since the start of October. The hosts taking a 2-1 lead into the half-time break thanks to goals from Nicola Hazell and Samantha Walker. Thorpe got a goal back in the 2nd half to see the sides take a share of the points their goals coming from captain Rebekah Lake and Shanice Sutton. Bungay lead the table by 3 points.
In between Thorpe and Bungay 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies maintain their great league form too winning away to Gorleston FC Ladies the visitors though were trailing 2-1 at half-time with Samantha Hunn and Sophie Gillett finding the back of the net for Gorleston. Sprowston came back to win it in the 2nd half, Victoria Leyer scoring in the 1st half going on to net a hat-trick to see Sprowston to a 3-2 victory.
Stalham Town Ladies are the big movers in the Division One table this weekend climbing up from 6th to 4th with an away win on Sunday against Fakenham Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points scored by Joanne Hooper.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
In Norfolk Women’s Division Two, leaders FC Sprowston Ladies kept up their 100% start to the season as they recorded their 10th straight win at home to Bure Valley Wildcats on Sunday. A strong 1st half performance seeing them leading 5-1. Bure Valley Wildcats restricting their opponents to two more goals in the 2nd half to see Sprowston to a 7-1 win keeping them 6 points clear of 2nd placed Beccles Town Ladies. Charlie Head grabbing herself a brace in the match their were goals to for Melissa Belsey, Tammy Graves, Rebecca Kirby and Nicole Read. Juliette Kelly on target for Bure Valley Wildcats in the 1st half.
4 goals this Sunday for Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens
That defeat sees Bure Valley Wildcats slip down a place to 7th in the Division Two table as Gorleston Rangers Ladies shared 8 goals at home to Toftwood United Ladies to win their 3rd game of the season. Ashleigh Cunningham and Lydia Hooper amongst the goal for Toftwood as they scored 3 times, Gorleston Rangers replying with 5 at the other end to seal the win.
Beccles Town Ladies kept up their great league form this weekend just 1 defeat from 9 played on the road this Sunday taking on Freethorpe Ladies. Leading 3-1 at half-time went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win 5-1 opening up a 5 point to 3rd placed Tavern Ladies. Lucy Robbens (pictured) the star of the show scoring 4 out of the 5 Beccles goals, Emily Coe also getting in the scoresheet. Rebecca White with the 1st half goal for Freethorpe.
