Monthly Archives: May 2018

Match Report – Peterborough United Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies U21s

Saturday 26th May

End of season friendly

  One more game to bring the season to a close a trip to The ABAX Stadium home of The Posh… Peterborough United FC, their Ladies side taking on Ipswich Town Ladies U21s in an end of season friendly.

A celebration for Peterborough United Ladies, fast becoming one of the leading forces for women’s football in Peterborough, newly crowned Champions of EMWRFL (East Midlands Women’s Regional Football League) Division One South will be joining Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the Premier Division next season one step away from the FAWPL. Dropping just 5 points on their way to the title this season winning 16 of their 18 games. An opportunity to play at The ABAX Stadium again at the end of their successful season.

  Their opponents Ipswich Town Ladies U21s replacing Aston Villa Lades who were originally scheduled to bring a team up to The ABAX Stadium. Ipswich Town Ladies the leading force for women’s football in Suffolk, the first team finishing 3rd in FAWPL South East Division One, are backed up by a Development team competing at Regional level and an academy squad which make up the bulk of today’s squad very young with many 16 & 17 year olds featuring.

  The venue for this evenings friendly The ABAX Stadium home of The Posh, Peterborough United competing in EFL League One. Have been here before when Peterborough United Ladies entertained West Ham United Ladies in an end of season friendly just a spectator then decided to cover the game for Women’s Football East this time around as I haven’t gotten around to seeing then earlier in the season. An impressive stadium 3 large seated stands with terracing behind one of the goals a great surface to play on. Warm weather at the start of the Bank Holiday weekend.

Peterborough United Ladies starting XI – Sophie Powell, Imogen James, Kathryn Lusk, Bronwyn Mulheron, Jeorgia Carr, Laura Patrick, Amy Challis, Emma Stevenson, Tash Applegate, Jess Driscoll & Keir Perkins (C). Subs – Amy Gore, D’Lacy Phillips, Emily Smith, Georgia Bainbridge, Rhea Patel & Leah Crawford.

 Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Chloe Dunn, Eva Hubbard (C), Olivia Bilson, Lucy Egan, Blue Wilson, Sarah Woodbyrne, Amy Leigh Abrehart, Georgie Morton, Eloise King & Miagh Downey. Subs – Emma Wallis, Naomi Bedeau, Holly Northfield, Abbie Lafeyette & Mia Cinque.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The teams line up

 Ipswich in an all orange kit to get the friendly kicked off. Peterborough lined up opposite wearing blue shirt with navy across the shoulders, blue shorts and red socks. The setting sun an issue for the Ipswich defence to deal with as it falls low behind the ground. Ipswich attack the ball played long out to Georgie Moreton on the right a run with the ball before sweeping a good ball into the six yard box Kathryn Lusk clearing the ball for Peterborough.

Imogen James looking to tackle Ipswich’s Blue Wilson

 A strong start to the game from Ipswich moving forwards with purpose have Peterborough on the back foot defending deep. Trying to get out in attack Peterborough’s Amy Challis attempts to play the ball in through the middle for striker and captain Keir Perkins to chase down, Lucy Egan with a vital defensive challenge for Ipswich. Tash Applegate back helping her defence charges down a cross on the right as Chloe Dunn gets forwards from right back for Ipswich. 

  GOAL! Ipswich go on to take an early lead in the match awarded a free-kick out wide left around 25 yards from goal, winger Amy Leigh Abrehart. A very good delivery fired in low towards the near post a crowd there the ball finding it’s way into the back of the net the crowd slow to react as the referee awards the goal Abrehart awarded it 0-1.

  Ipswich press their early advantage moving the ball well across the pitch. Captain Eva Hubbard brings the ball on from left-back for Ipswich fires a diagonal ball in low towards the top of the box, Eloise King the target, Laura Patrick defending for Peterborough. Dunn coming on to support Morton on the right Applegate again with good defensive work with her sides pushed back unable to get anything going in attack. Both Peterborough centre backs Lusk and Bronwyn Mulheron clearing inside the six yard box as Ipswich get crosses in. 

Tash Applegate with the ball for Peterborough United

  Jess Driscoll brings the ball on through the middle tries to pick out Perkins ahead of her as she breaks in behind the Ipswich defence positioned on the halfway line, Egan intercepting the pass. Sarah Woodbyrne gets hold of the ball in midfield for Ipswich sends a pass out to Abrehart on the left 25 yards out unleashes a shot Peterborough goalkeeper Sophie Powell with an excellent save throwing herself at the ball getting a touch upon it taking it wide of goal a corner awarded. The delivery good helped on across the six yard box an instinctive touch at the far post the ball placed wide for the goal kick.

   Mulheron back to clear the ball off the line for Peterborough as a cross from Abrehart on the left is over Powell coming towards her near post. Ipswich have been really impressive in the opening exchanges working the ball well energetic making runs off the ball someone always available for a pass. Peterborough pushed back have limited chances up front Perkins isolated always ready to break off the last defender tries to get after an over the top pass but Ipswich goalkeeper Ellie Bird out of her area early can get to the ball first. 

 Challis on the ball for Peterborough wins a throw right side a chance for Peterborough to occupy Ipswich territory the ball worked back to Mulheron lifted up into the area for Perkins good control to bring the ball down turns out to the left her shot charged down by Olivia Bilson in close attendance, Bird can gather up the loose ball. Ipswich are quick to get the ball up the other end Wilson on for Morton right side her cross into the area claimed by Powell.   

GOAL! Ipswich double their lead are awarded a free kick for handball in a dangerous position on the right Morton to put the ball in as players come up from the back. Is a great delivery fired in head height into the six yard box headed on Bilson turns the ball into the back of the net from close range 0-2. 

Ipswich’s Olivia Bilson

Peterborough were readying a change before the goal Georgia Bainbridge entering the action now for Jeorgia Carr. A top draw save from Powell as the ball is knocked down for King to strike from the top of the area for Ipswich hit first time dipping Powell throws herself to her right getting a glove on the ball to take it wide for the corner. Players up from the back once again for Ipswich Bilson goes for it again inside the six yard box but can’t get a clean connection on the ball as Peterborough get the ball away to safety. make a second change Applegate coming off for Amy Gore. 

  A free-kick to Peterborough on halfway left side the ball up into the box spilt by Bird as she goes to claim, Perkins after it but Ipswich scramble away for the throw. Left side the ball put into Challis she turns inside having a shot from 25 yards out her effort over the crossbar. Imogen James comes off for Peterborough with D’Lacy Phillips coming on. Wilson with a give and go with Woodbyrne in the middle for Ipswich after the return pass inside the box Lusk with a good tackle on her for Peterborough to win the ball back. 

Amy Challis attempting to get in on goal for Peterborough United

  Hubbard with the pass on for Abrehart left side her cross claimed by Powell with Miagh Downey closing her down. Morton finding space on the right for Ipswich gets in behind a cross flashed in across the face of goal. Bainbridge with a good run and pass on for Perkins peeling away top of the area Ipswich defending the ball away for the corner defended near post. Ipswich counter attacking quickly Abrehart on the left the ball on into the area brilliant recovery from Emma Stevenson making the tackle to deny Ipswich a shot at goal the ball away for a corner on the right.

GOAL! Ipswich extend their lead from the corner a great ball played in from the right headed on along the six yard line to King positioned far post sending her header back in and across the line to make it 0-3.

GOAL! Peterborough with an instant response get up the other end from the restart get up the other end and pull a goal back. The ball played up top towards Perkins 20 yards out Challis providing the run going beyond her into the area getting onto the end of the ball and lashing a shot up over the keeper to smash against the crossbar and bounce down over the line 1-3.

  Into stoppage time Ipswich with one last attack Morton on the right with a good cross into the six yard box Patrick with good defensive work to play the ball back to her keeper as she tracks King’s run. 

Half-time Peterborough United Ladies 1-3 Ipswich Town Ladies U21s

  A strong 1st half display from Ipswich Town Ladies young side have dominated pushing Peterborough back moving well with and without the ball, energetic have used the whole pitch well and defending a high line have restricted Peterborough attacks keeping them for large periods penned back in the final 3rd. Scoring 3 goals they have all come for set-pieces. Peterborough have struggled to get anything going in attack working hard to defend however pulling it back to 3-1 keeps them in the game as we go into the 2nd half.

  4 changes for Ipswich at the start of the second half, Emma Wallis, Naomi Bedeau, Holly Northfield and Abbie Lafeyette the players coming on. It’s Peterborough to get things underway in the 2nd period. On the attack early the ball with Challis on the right a high ball played into the box Ipswich head clear. The visitors attack the ball through the middle squeezed through to Morton making a run into the area right side shoots her low effort saved by Powell out for a corner. Peterborough bring the ball on Driscoll into Bainbridge 20 yards out central slices her shot wide of the Ipswich goal. 

 GOAL! Just what Peterborough didn’t want at the start of the 2nd half Ipswich going further into the lead and from another set-piece. Downey with good work on the right to win a corner. The ball played short up to Morton positioned upon the corner of the area a superb ball played in towards goal Lafayette with the run central to volley the ball home from close range 1-4.

  Ipswich attacking the ball played into King drifting left knocks the pass inside to Woodbyrne arriving top of the area her strike sent wide across the face of the Peterborough goal. Lafayette scuffs a chance inside the D allowing Peterborough to clear as the cross is fired into her from Morton on the right. Lusk charging down a shot as Ipswich keep the ball from a corner kick. A mistake from Bird presents Driscoll with a shooting opportunity as her goal kick goes straight to the Peterborough midfielder 30 yards from goal tries to lob a shot back in the keeper off her line the ball dropping wide of the post.

Emma Stevenson on the ball for Peterborough United

  Morton drills a shot in from the right Powell with a cracking save to tip the ball over her crossbar at her near post. The ball played into Wilson at the top of the area, her shot defended by Lusk. Play spread the ball put out to Morton in space on the right her cross defended by Mulheron over for the corner. The ball played long across the area falls to King lashes a shot in takes a deflection putting a wide a corner signalled, Peterborough defend and try to counter attack Ipswich stop them on halfway.

GOAL! Downey gets on the scoresheet for Ipswich a run into the box as Morton picks it up on the right charging forwards lays the pass on into the area Downey throwing herself at it taking it past the advancing Powell and on into the back of the net 1-5.

  Lusk comes off for Peterborough, James returning to the action. Emily Smith also on for Stevenson. The changes thick and fast now Ipswich with a double switch Mia Cinque and Abrehart returning on for Woodbyrne and Downey. Ipswich with a free-kick in a dangerous position inside the D, Cinque on the ball clips the wall allowing Powell to come and gather beyond. Gore with a dipping shot in on goal from distance for Peterborough, Bird back on her line is right behind it for Ipswich.

  Abrehart with a pacy run on the left fires a low strike in towards the near post Powell diving can’t stop it is saved by the woodwork the ball gathered by the keeper. Rhea Patel and Leah Crawford come on for Peterborough replacing Challis and Phillips. Frustration for Peterborough their is room in behind the Ipswich defence they just cannot find that all important final ball as the game enters the final 15 minutes. Smith picks up a knock her knee already bandaged comes off for Peterborough Carr back on.

  Bainbridge with a good ball out to Driscoll making a run to her right her cross flighted into the area won by Ipswich’s Bilson. Cinque with great control centrally as the ball is played up to her sends it out to Abrehart wide left takes it inside tackled the ball is sent in towards goal from distance lands on the roof of Powell’s net. Woodbyrne and Dunn come back on for Ipswich King and Morton giving way. Driscoll bringing the ball on left side knocks it on for Perkins ahead of her into the box Bird rushing out sliding in to make the save at the attackers feet. 

  Perkins last action of the game as she is replaced by Applegate late on in attack. Ipswich get the ball on Dunn linking up with Abrehart and Cinque sees a 20 yard shot put over. Abrehart with a 25 yard effort on goal out on the left wide of target. Alot of changes equals alot of stoppage time. Ipswich finishing strongly Cinque with a mazy dribble central sends a shot over the bar from the top of the area. 

  A throw won by Peterborough inside the Ipswich half worked inside to Carr at the top of the area moves into a central position before angling a shot in on goal her low drive scooped up by Bird. Woodbyrne with the run central the ball at her feet pushed into Cinque goes on past her getting the return pass sends her shot in wide across the face of goal. 

Full time Peterborough United Ladies 1-5 Ipswich Town Ladies U21s

  Ipswich win the game 5-1 were impressive from start to finish getting an early goal in both halves to keep them on the front foot. Energetic moved the ball quickly and spread play out to both wingers. Ironically 4 of their 5 goals came from set-pieces all taken well however. Not the end to the season Peterborough would have liked worked hard defensively Powell with some outstanding saves, just couldn’t get anything going in attack should take nothing away from an excellent season nevertheless. Several Ipswich 1st teamers have mentioned on social media how bright the future looks and with this squad coming through it’s easy to see why.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 One more time this season the award for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders from the Ipswich squad but after reading the notes on name featured more than the rest and made choosing alot easier. With her pace and movement on the right finding space and excellent deliveries into the area Georgie Morton is today’s Player of the Match.

A good game to end the season thanks to everyone at The ABAX Stadium for their help this evening.

The Round-Up – 20/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th May

The final edition of The Round-Up for the 2017/18 season. 19 games to bring you in one post it’s not quite over a couple to thing’s to still be decided and it is going to go all the way in both the Premier and Division One in Essex, first though we’ll begin with all the action from the final day of the FAWPL season.

FAWPL Southern Division

3 games to wrap up the season in the FAWPL Southern Division, Charlton Athletic Women the Champions of course have a very important Play-off match to come against the Northern Division Champions, Blackburn Rovers Ladies this coming Sunday at Bramall Lane.

  This Sunday Charlton were at home for their final game of the season presented with the Southern Division trophy, ended their campaign against Chichester City Ladies. Charlotte Gurr giving Charlton a 1-0 half-time lead scoring in the 13th minute. Strike partner Kit Graham doubling the lead on the hour. Natasha Stephens getting her first goal for Chichester City pulled it back to 2-1 on 77 minutes. Charlton soon restoring their 2 goal advantage Gurr netting her 2nd of the game 4 minutes later. Graham taking her tally to a whopping 46 goals for the season scoring deep in stoppage time to see Charlton end the season with a 4-1 win. Just 2 defeats in the league all season for Charlton a potent strike force in Gurr and Graham have netted 82 goals between them. An 8th placed finish for Chichester City in the finish a solid season following promotion have been comfortable in the top half of the table for much of the campaign dropping a little late on.

 Wishing Charlton all the best of luck for this weekends Play-off match.

  Pipped at the post Lewes FC Women concede 4th place in the Southern Division table having held it for much of the season as Coventry United Ladies grabbed a last gasp winner to nudge them out on goal difference. Lewes travelled to Coventry United knowing a point or better would secure 4th. Coventry having played twice in midweek in an effort to catch up their games in hand had picked up maximum points one more win would see them overhaul Lewes to 4th spot. Were trailing at the break however Lewes ahead 1-0 after Avilla Bergin had fired the visitors into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Jade Brook levelled thing’s up for Coventry in the 2nd half. 1-1 until the dying moments the game looked to be heading for the draw Lois Jefferies finding the back of the net to grab a late late winner for Coventry United.

  Over 1300 spectators were present for West Ham United Ladies final game of the season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies in Sunday. The club having had a fantastic 2018 to date 13 games unbeaten along with 2 cups won along the way. From a precarious position going into the year in the league West Ham United have ended the season comfortable in mid-table. Held 0-0 for the opening half hour it was Rosie Kmita who broke the dead lock for West Ham to put the hosts into the lead, Kelly Wealthall making it 2-0 4 minutes before half-time.

  Jasmine Auguste scored a 3rd goal for West Ham United on the hour. Ellie Zoepfl then took over the goal scoring proceedings as she bagged herself a 10 minute hat-trick to put West Ham United 6-0 up. Helen Ogle pulled a goal back for Queens Park Rangers a consolation West Ham United awarded a penalty in stoppage time substitute Rebecca Dunning stepping up to take and scoring her 1st goal for the club the final score 7-1.  

FAWPL South East Division One

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have done it are the FAWPL South East Division One Champions! An amazing run of 11 wins to end the campaign have lost just the one league game all season and that was their 2nd game of the season back in August. Have been playing catch up all season but as the title race played out before them knew what they had to do at one point 27 points back on the leaders but a maximum points haul would see them close the gap. That of course is easier said than done, credit to everyone involved a tremendous effort with games coming thick and fast towards the end played themselves into top spot with a game to go and knew just a point away to bottom side Haringey Borough was going to be enough come this Sunday.

  A 16-1 win for Milton Keynes just a week ago, Stevenage pushed them hard at Stadium MK in midweek a 1-0 just as good however. With plenty of goal scorers in their side Milton Keynes created plenty of chances and took them to wrap up the title with a big win, Laura Mills and Kim Farrow netting a hat-trick each. Both Leah Cudone and Zoe Boote got a brace. Captain Leanna Doyle and Amy Gooderham also on target along with an own goal in a 13-0 win.

  An incredibly tough season for Haringey Borough following their double winning success of the season before. Losing a lot of players to university it was a baptism of fire in the FAWPL so many new players losing a manager during the campaign too. Full credit too though for sticking at it have battled and the spirit remained strong the club. 

Congratulations to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on becoming Champions and promotion to the Southern Division.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies the FAWPL South East Division One leaders for so long through out the season ultimately missing out finish as Runners-Up in the league. Two defeats late on in the campaign damaging their own title challenge have nevertheless had a strong season. Ended the season were they began the reverse fixture away to Ipswich Town Ladies who themselves have secured a top three finish in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town beat AFC Wimbledon 3-1 on the opening day of the season. This Sunday the sides were goalless at the break. AFC Wimbledon taking the lead early in the 2nd period awarded a penalty on 47 minutes Caroline Bisson putting the ball into the back of the net for her 11th goal of the season. Ipswich responded quickly getting back on level terms, Zoe Cossey who has been in fine form this season netting her 21st goal of the season to make it 1-1 the sides ended with a point each.

Ipswich Town Ladies manager Ralph Pruden announcing after the game that he would be stepping down from the role after 4 years in charge a successful spell for the club, will still be involved with the club but taking a well earned rest first, has been very helpful to Women’s Football East in that period and wish him all the best for the future.

 Leyton Orient WFC were making their debut in the FAWPL this season and right up their amongst the title chasers from an early stage end up with a 4th place finish. A very good first season at this level their campaign ending with a goalless draw away to Enfield Town Ladies who end in 10th position.

Luton Town Ladies have been amongst the top  sides in the FAWPL South East Division One over recent seasons clinching two successive 4th placed finishes before a 5th place finish last season. 5th place was the goal too this Sunday as they travelled to Norfolk to play Norwich City Ladies knowing a win would guarantee the place. Women’s Football East was there to watch the action on a hot sunny afternoon at Plantation Park. A flurry of goals in the early stages of the game, Nicola Henman lobbing the keeper to put Luton a goal up Norwich went straight up the other end and scored the equaliser Chelsea Garrett running through to beat the keeper to the ball and turn the ball into the back of the net. Luton soon back in front Henman the provider this time setting up Jess McKay inside the box to make it 2-1. 

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

Luton further extending their 1st half lead as they were awarded a free-kick 30 yards from goal central a brilliant strike from their captain Zara Carroll the ball smashing down off the crossbar over the line to make it 3-1. That the half-time score Norwich came out fighting 2nd half Luton soaking up the pressure ready to hit their opponents on the counter. Norwich pulling a goal back late in the match Garrett with her 2nd of the game, Luton keeping their lead to the final whistle and ending their season with a win. Norwich finish 2nd bottom and will have to wait until the upcoming league restructuring to see if they will retain their FAWPL status for next season. 

 Stevenage Ladies were the side that could have overhauled Luton to 5th spot had they got the win and Luton dropped points as it was Stevenage away to Denham United Ladies on the final day lost out to a narrow 2-1 defeat, captain Donna McGuigan getting the goal Denham ended the season on a positive note Kayleigh Currivan with a double to see them claim the 3 points. 

That’s it for the FAWPL as from next season it becomes the FA Women’s National League. 

ERWFL Division One South

 Just one outstanding fixture left to play in the ERWFL from Division One South, Hutton Ladies double cup winners this season ending with a trip to Hertford Town Ladies in buoyant mood the Essex side ending with a victory. Kate Lowen and Kelly Roberts both scoring 2 goals each with Kaitlin Sugg and Laura Allen also on target in a 6-1 win.

Congratulation too the Harlow Town Ladies who have been promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division. Finishing 2nd in Division One South, Champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves haven’t taken promotion the runners-up going up in their place.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Bungay Town Ladies are the Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions and complete a league and cup double. A nervous wait at the end however as they draw their final game of the season to open the door to 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies. 4 points behind with 2 games left to play a 2-0 win against Thorpe United Ladies meant Sprowston could overtake Bungay and become Champions themselves if they could win their final match of the season away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves who themselves with two games left to play could move up a couple of places with maximum points.

Sprowston having the better start getting themselves into a 2-0 lead Wymondham Town came back into it Hannah Claughton pulling it back to 2-1. The game turned completely around then as Wymondham Town levelled from the penalty spot Emily Anderson scoring added another soon after to put Wymondham Town 3-2 ahead. Sprowston coming back to level it up at 3-3 late on in the game the sides taking away a point each, Sprowston drawing level on points with Bungay who become Champions virtue of a superior goal difference. 

  Congratulations to Bungay Town Ladies on completing the league and cup double.

 Congratulations to Sprowston Ladies to a very young squad challenging for the title all season missing out on a double themselves just on goals scored after winning the Plate Final.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

A double header to bring the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North season to a close, Riverside Ladies needing just a point against their two matches with Hungate Rovers Ladies to become the league champions. Jess Hill and Jade Ramm scoring a goal each in a 2-0 win for Riverside in one game. 6 points won with a 5-1 win in the other match, Samantha Woodham scoring twice with a goal each for Annie Posnett, Lianna Bell and Juliana Lee.

  Congratulations to Riverside Ladies on becoming Championship North Champions and promotion to the Premiership. A successful end to a difficult season dropping out of the EMWFL and entering a team into the Championship North.

Essex Women’s Premier Division 

Still all to play for in both leagues in Essex. In the Premier Division, Hatfield Peverel Ladies maintain the lead moving onto 40 points 5 clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies who have a game in hand. A double header this Sunday for Hatfield Peverel away to another title challenger Corringham Cosmos who even after this weekends double have 5 games left to play. Both sides claiming a win. Christa Osman on target with the winner in Hatfield Peverel’s 1-0 win. Michelle Sumpter grabbing to only goal of the game to win it for Corringham Cosmos who lay in 5th spot on 29 points have 4 games in hand on Hatfield Peverel who themselves have one left play away to Collier Row Tigers this Sunday. 

Lawford Ladies secured the 3 points with a huge home win against Harlow Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Captain, Daisy Canny scoring 5 goals in the game taking her onto 24 for the season, Jasmine Cox keeping just ahead of her as top scorer getting a hat-trick has 26 goals now. Sofia Serghiou on the scoresheet too with 4 goals in the game, Jade Heath and Tyler Christou also on target in a 14-0 win.

  Frontiers Ladies in 3rd place in the Premier Division have 3 games left to play as they picked up another win on the road on Sunday to leave them 6 points off the leaders. Taking on Beacon Hill Rovers, were leading 3-0 at half-time before going on to win 4-1, Sharon Ferguson netting a brace along with a goal apiece for Kay Foy and Kelly Holsworth.

Chelmsford City Ladies were playing Collier Row Tigers at home on Sunday, Georgia James scoring a hat-trick along with a goal for Mia Brisley seeing the 6th placed side beat Collier Row Tigers in 4th, 4-2. Emily Dempsey and Laura Bunton scoring for Collier Row Tigers.

I could do the maths but it’ll only give me a headache and leave you confused so for now 4 sides still remain in with a chance of claiming the title, Hatfield Peverel win on Sunday and other results go their way then they will finish top.

Essex Women’s Division One

As competitive for the league title in Essex Women’s Division One going into the final week, a 3 way tie at the top with Hullbridge Sports Ladies ahead on goal difference over Leigh Ramblers Ladies and Southend United Ladies the latter two meeting in midweek. All 3 on 49 points.

 Hullbridge Sports Ladies in action on Sunday at home to Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in 5th. A brace from top scorer Broghan Kelly clinching the win for Hullbridge 2-1 the final score. Kelly moving onto an incredible 51 goals for the season from 22 appearances. The win putting Hullbridge back on top of the table crucially have a game in hand on both Leigh Ramblers and Southend United.

 One more game from Division One at the weekend Alresford Colne Rangers were at home against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Joanne Harvey, Alresford’s top scorer moving onto 24 goals for the season with a 4 goal haul. Tiffany Reeves with a brace and a goal too for Kirsty Belfall her 1st of the season in a comfortable 7-2 win.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 20th May

 It’s the final day of the FAWPL season, ending it with a trip to Plantation Park to watch Norwich City Ladies up against Luton Town Ladies in South East Division One.

  The last season in fact for the FAWPL with the women’s football pyramid being restructured from next season it will become known as the Women’s National League and there will be some restructuring amongst the teams that compete in those league too.

  Neither of today’s sides can improve on their final placing Norwich City Ladies will finish 2nd bottom in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Have unfortunately been struggling at the wrong end of the table for a few season’s now. Change potentially around the corner. Chairman and General Manager Mel Swift bringing in Grant Palmer to join the club as first team manager assisted by Carla Dickinson, following a successful spell developing and winning titles with Harlow Town Ladies. Since arriving in January results have started to pick up without necessarily picking up the points. Relegation a possibility will come down to the restructuring of the league and at present not known. 

  Luton Town Ladies are currently 5th in the FAWPL South East Division One can’t finish any higher although they can be caught by 6th placed Stevenage Ladies who are just a point behind ending their campaign away to Denham United Ladies. Have been a regular in the top half of the table over recent season’s finishing 4th, 4th, and then 5th last season in the league. Have brought a number of youth players up through the club to make the 1st team squad this season. Were in action in midweek at home to Cambridge United WFC coming back from a goal down twice to secure a point in a 3-3 draw.

 Plantation Park the venue home of Norwich United FC and Norwich City Ladies. A warm sunny May afternoon to end the season the pitch looking in reasonably good shape after seeing alot of football played upon it. Dry however and fairly hard underfoot. Offers plenty of width to. Campers behind the goals getting a ring side seat of the action.

 Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Luka Goodfield, Vivian Moyo, Sasha Diston, Emily Moerkerk (C), Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Aimee Durrant, Summer Ward, Brooke Osborne & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Hayley Turner, Natasha Snelling, Eliza McDonald, Paige Shorten & Laura Thacker.

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Brooks, Rachel Kosky, Lucy Webster, Rachel Carter, Lucy Tape, Lisa Dixon, Zara Carroll (C), Dionne Manning, Jess McKay, Funmi Babalola & Nicola Henman. Subs – Natasha Fensome & Erica Bryon.

It’s Luton to kick off the match wearing orange shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green kit. A quiet opening to the game Luton putting the ball out to the right Norwich winning the throw in concede a free-kick on halfway, to the right the ball flighted in towards the off of the area the Norwich defence deals with it and sending the ball out to the right wing set up a counter attack Brooke Osborne travelling with the ball up the wing sending a cross in across the six yard box the ball dipping as it arrives at the far post so to is Norwich’s Aimee Durrant her touch flicking the ball up over the bar.

Millie Daviss bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

   Luton play the ball up to Nicola Henman in attack holding it up plays the ball back to Lisa Dixon rolled into Zara Carroll the Luton captain attempts to play the ball over the top for Henman to run onto, too much weight on the pass runs out for a goal kick. Norwich captain, Emily Moerkerk plays the ball into Summer Ward moving away to the right, Lucy Webster in to tackle the ball out for a throw, high up the pitch Norwich get players forwards the ball into the area cut out by Lucy Tape for Luton, launch a rapid counter through the middle the ball fed through to Funmi Babalola into the left channel gets a shot away from outside the box her low effort running narrowly wide of the near post.

   Millie Daviss brings the ball on over halfway for Norwich central on to Chelsea Garrett her back to goal spins the ball away to her right Ward taking it on down the left as Durrant makes a central run into the box the cross squared into her run she shot is placed wide across the face of goal. Norwich build another attack the ball played out to Garrett peeling out to the right wing up the line cuts her cross back towards the top of the area, Carroll getting her foot around it to clear for Luton the clearance runs straight to Norwich’s Jodie Drake 30 yards out takes on the shot the ball skimming in towards goal, Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks diving to her right claims it. 

Norwich City Ladies, Jodie Drake

  Risky from Norwich goalkeeper Eilish Brogan as she comes racing out of her box to close down Henman as she is put through on goal, does well however controlling the bouncing ball with her chest to take it away from the attacker before kicking it up field. A good tempo to the game certainly doesn’t have that end of a long season feel to it.

  Henman is causing the Norwich defence problems early on timing her runs well playing off the shoulder of the last defender, gets away on the left channel in front of goal, Sasha Diston doing well for Norwich recovering the ground lunging in to take the ball away from Henman out for the corner kick. A good delivery into the area from the left the inswinging ball take well by Brogan as she jumps for the ball with Henman coming in on her. 

Eilish Brogan claims the ball for Norwich City Ladies

 Drake with a good pass out to the right to pick out Osborne the Norwich winger taking it on evades a tackle getting in behind to send a cross in along the edge of the box Garrett meeting it far side sends her shot wide of goal. 

GOAL! Luton open the scoring and it’s Henman who gets the goal, a handful for the Norwich defence to deal with the ball played up towards her 25/30 yards from goal to the right sends a chipped effort up high into the air looping over Brogan the keeper caught off her line can’t get back as it falls into the back of the net 0-1.

Nicola Henman opens the scoring for Luton Town Ladies

GOAL! Straight away from the restart however Norwich get the ball up the other end and level the scores the ball lifted up towards the box bouncing as Brooks comes out towards the edge of her area, Garrett in behind challenging the keeper for the ball knocks it past her and taking it away to the right of goal gets her foot up over it to turn it back across the line to score, almost tumbles head over heels over the barrier behind the goal in the process 1-1.

The moment Chelsea Garrett gets past Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks to equalise for Norwich City Ladies

  Brooks required treatment after the goal is okay to continue. Carroll playing the diagonal pass out to Jess McKay on the left she looks to cut inside is tackled by Norwich’s Luka Goodfield, Diston clearing the loose ball.

Norwich City Ladies, Luka Goodfield

GOAL! The goals keep coming a 3rd scored in as many minutes and it’s Luton who once again take the lead. Norwich are caught in possession high up the pitch as Luton press the ball, Henman stealing the ball on the right 25 yards out shifting it inside, players drawn across she sends the low cross in across the area McKay free at the far post 10 yards out opens up her body to divert the ball past Brogan to score 1-2. 18 minutes played.

Jess McKay score for Luton Town Ladies to restore their lead

A change for Norwich, Goodfield coming off on comes Laura Thacker. Henman strong on the ball threatens to get in behind once more, Diston doing well to get across her and play the ball back to Brogan to clear inside the box. McKay and Henman combine in attack on the left a give and go between the pair McKay coming infield lines up a shot from distance the ball screwing away from goal. Luton coming forwards with purpose looking to spread the play across the pitch inside the Norwich half. 

McKay into the box a similar position to which she scored the ball in from the right dropping the attacker striking it first time the shot spun wide of goal. Dixon winning the ball in the middle for Luton inside to Carroll her pass out to McKay away on he left crosses into the area Henman goes for it Diston challenging the Luton attacker getting a glancing header on the ball places it wide at the far post. Luton on top pushing forwards.

Norwich City Ladies, Sasha Diston

  Henman continues to hassle the Norwich defence supported by McKay on the right. Thacker with good defensive work for Norwich to get the ball back to her keeper. Babalola with support from Dionne Manning on the right the ball crossed in towards the top of the area headed on by the Norwich out to the left retrieved by McKay who sends a high ball into the box, Brogan taking it well as she falls forwards. Babalola steals in on the ball taking it off the Norwich defence playing it through for Henman she is flagged offside. 

GOAL! McKay is fouled in a central position 30 yards from goal, Luton send players forwards as Carroll places the ball. She goes for goal strikes the ball well, arrowing in towards the top corner Brogan flings herself at it in vain as it smashes down against the crossbar and down, scrambled away the officials though signal a goal scored and Luton extend their lead 1-3.

Zara Carroll’s free-kick smashing down off the crossbar

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll

Luton with a throw in on the left inside the Norwich half Dixon making the run in behind takes the ball to the byline before sending in a cross bouncing across the face of goal cleared at the far post. Luton pressing the ball well, McKay always ready to break in behind whenever the ball is played up to Henman. Henman herself charges down a clearance from Brogan top of the area, aims to get the loose ball turned in on goal, Brogan recovering well back pedalling is right behind the strike. 

  Late into the 1st half the ball with Norwich on the left a foul committed inside the Luton half a chance to send players forwards towards the top of the box, a good delivery into the area bouncing near post, Daviss getting in front of Tape, almost gets on the end of it, Brooks palming it away to her right.

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-3 Luton Town Ladies

  A strong first half performance from Luton after an initially flurry of goals taking the lead then conceding straight away, only to score again taking the lead again and dominating from that point on. Henman and McKay causing all sorts of problems for the Norwich defence as they pressed the ball high. Good movement on and off the ball supported by the midfield. Norwich with a couple of great chances themselves in the opening minutes of the match. After conceding the 2nd goal struggled to get the ball out caught in possession created a few of their own problems. Luton on course to secure 5th spot in the table.

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

 Norwich to get the 2nd half underway. Drake has the ball in the middle wide to Ward out left taking the ball on sends a cross into the box Durrant with the run gets her head on the ball put straight at Brooks the keeper holding onto the ball. McKay getting forwards with the ball sends a cross into Henman positioned outside the box, Diston closing her down preventing her from attempting the lob. Thacker with a vital interception at the back as Dixon looks to play the ball on through the middle. 

Jodie Drake clearing the ball

  Norwich starting the 2nd half better getting forwards Osborne seeing a cross go behind for a goal kick on the right. Carroll carrying the ball on over the halfway line for Luton picks out Manning on the right with the pass as she makes a break forwards cutting inside towards the top of the box sends a low shot in towards goal, Brogan getting down gathers the ball into her body. 

Luton Town Ladies, Funmi Babalola

  Diston slides in on the hard ground to try and take the ball away from Babalola as she makes a run on the right 20 yards out, the defender is hurt making the challenge Babalola retrieves the ball on the byline sends a high ball in across the face of Brogan’s goal the keeper doing well under challenge to get up and claim the ball. Norwich temporarily down to 10 whilst Diston receives treatment Luton press on in attack the ball played into the top of the area cleared back to Webster having gotten forwards the full back slices a 25 attempt well off target.

  Diston comes back on but she is unable to continue, the substitution made on comes midfielder Paige Shorten. The tempo remains high Norwich gaining confidence, Shorten not afraid to strike the ball from distance central has a pop at goal from 30 yards out the ball dropping wide of the right post. Ward cutting inside with the ball on the left on to Shorten she dinks the ball over the top of the Luton defence for Durrant to chase, Brooks can reach it first. 

Luton come close to extending their lead Manning getting hold of the ball on the right turning in behind to sends a low cross in towards the near post Babalola arriving meets it first time drills the ball narrowly wide. A third change for Norwich, Drake comes off as Natasha Snelling in brought on to support Garrett in attack. A corner for Norwich on the right taken short the ball crossed into the six yard box, Brooks can catch unchallenged. 

Luton Town Ladies, Dionne Manning

  A powerful run by Henman driving on with the ball up towards the top of the box evades a tackle knocking the ball on into the area fires a cross diagonally across goal from the right. Babalola racing in far post can’t get to the ball as it runs out of play. A throw for Norwich on the left the ball inside to Snelling pushed on for Garrett to attack arriving top corner of the Luton area lets fly with a shot the ball angling in near post Brooks saves well beating the ball away to her right. 

Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling

Norwich pressing for a goal risk getting caught on the counter attack Luton timing their attacks the ball played up to McKay clear on the left drives for the box inside Brogan does well to save sliding in at her feet to deny the attacker a shot. End to end Norwich attack coming right side the ball played into the area loops up and on towards Garrett peeling in behind at the far post shapes to shoot deceiving Brooks who dives to her right the ball instead prodded square to her left the keeper reacts brilliantly throwing out her trailing leg to stop the ball getting past her out for the corner. 

  Norwich are pressing on looking for a goal Ward on the left inside for Shorten good hold up play by the midfielder outside the area left corner turns inside well lifting the ball over the defence into the box Snelling stretching for it sends her shot over the bar, had it been on target wouldn’t have counted as she was offside. Norwich looking strong Luton soaking up the pressure.

GOAL! That pressure increases however as Norwich get the goal they have been pressing for, Snelling with the ball on for Daviss moving left on for Garrett out on the wing she takes the ball on down the line cutting inside to the byline getting in behind and from the angle drills in a shot towards the near post Brooks diving for it can’t get there the ball finds the back of the net 2-3 will a little under 10 minutes left to play.

Chelsea Garrett score a 2nd goal for the game for Norwich City Ladies

 Manning looks to get forwards for Luton as Carter wins the ball at the back for Luton on to Carroll out to the right Manning pushing on Moyo getting back with her tackles her to regain possession for Norwich. Tape getting her head on the ball to clear for Luton as Ward plays a ball in from the left. Shorten is brought down by Carroll in the middle top of the circle, Durrant over the ball a great delivery in Brooks takes it well high on her goal line. 

Not long left in the match Norwich have a corner everyone goes up including the keeper, the ball from the right goes long headed back across goal in towards the right post, Carter on her line to defend for Luton heading the ball away from danger. Luton have players back defending late on Carroll winning the ball gets it up to Babalola, possession lost Norwich push late on but can’t final a clinical final ball as Luton defend their lead and claim the 3 points on the final day and with it secure 5th place in the FAWPL South East Division One table.

Full time  Norwich City Ladies 2-3 Luton Town Ladies

  A competitive game to end the season for both sides gave it there all, Luton by far the better the 1st half taking a 3-1 lead. Sat back more in the 2nd half ready to launch a counter attack when on e presented itself Norwich improving 2nd half getting hold of the ball higher up the pitch and gaining confidence as a result creating chances pulling a goal back late in the 2nd half proved too little too late but a positive 2nd half to end their campaign. 5th place for Luton 4 seasons in a row now. Norwich 2nd bottom play the waiting game now to see whether they stay in the Division or drop down. An improved 2nd half of the season lots of positives to build on for next season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   This afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Luton Town Ladies, Nicola Henman proved a real handful for the Norwich defence especially in the first half playing off the last defender moving left and right to receive the ball supported well by McKay scoring the opening goal and setting up the 2nd.

My thanks to both clubs for their help today always appreciated.

 

Cup Final Report – Isleham United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final

Wednesday 16th May

One more women’s final left to be played in Cambridgeshire a trip to Newmarket Town FC’s, Bloorie.com Stadium this evening for the Junior Invitation Cup Final between Isleham United Ladies and ICA Sports Ladies.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies aiming for a Cup Double after winning the League Cup two weeks ago. Up against fellow Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies, ICA Sports Ladies were the underdogs, putting in a strong performance as their opponents never got into their stride. This time around taking on lower league opposition in the Junior Invitation Cup, ICA Sports Ladies are themselves the favourites but will be only to aware that doesn’t count for anything if you don’t perform in the game. A Cup Double though the perfect way to end their season.

A Cup Final appearance and a shot at winning silverware too for Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South side Isleham United Ladies. Know themselves they face a tough test in this evenings final but have earned the right to be there. League form hasn’t been good this season have saved the best for their cup run to this evenings final. Close to Newmarket the club has brought plenty of support along to the final.

Road to the Final

  Peterborough based ICA Sports Ladies receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Junior Invitation Cup. Isleham United Ladies were drawn at home to fellow Championship South side, Burwell Tigers. Amy Ellis and Lily Turner both scoring twice with Annabelle Marsh and Livi Caffarelli getting a goal a piece in a 6-1 win. 

  Onto the quarter finals Isleham United Ladies were once again at home taking on another Championship South opponent Cambridge Rangers. Louisa Harwood, Nicole Bailey an a brace for Vicky Beeton putting Isleham through to the last 4 of the competition. ICA Sports at home in the quarter finals up against Histon Ladies Reserves who they had knocked out of the League Cup via a penalty shootout. That wasn’t needed this time around a brace for Carmen Herridge putting them through the last 4.

   The semi-finals saw to close games played. Isleham United Ladies again on home soil up against Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves also from the Championship South, A brace for Lily Turner along with a goal for Rachael Turner seeing Isleham edge the result 3-2 to reach the final. ICA Sports Ladies were drawn away to fellow Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. Just the one goal scored in the match ICA Sports clinching a place in a 2nd final, Jessica Farchica with the all important goal. 

The game originally scheduled for last month postponed due to heavy rain. The weather better this time but the heat has vanished a chilly breeze making it feel very cold, cloud cover above. The venue for this evenings final Newmarket Town FC. Playing on their new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. The bar and kitchen open a goo sized crowd gathered to watch the game.

 Isleham United Ladies starting XI – Claire Knibbs, Holly Partner, Sophie Antonucci, Becky Shields (C), Sarah Rouse, Zoe Luddy, Jessica Farchica, Megan Purnell, Donna Nicholls, Rhian Leonard & Lorna Hart. Subs – Carmen Herridge, Lindsey Short & Cara Clarke.

 ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Kathleen Tilbrook, Kate Theobald, Olivia Menton, Livi Caffarelli, Donna Woodcock (C), Vicky Beeton, Annabelle Marsh, Lily Turner, Louise Harwood, Amy Ellis & Laura Todd. Subs – Jade Flack, Anita Butters, Rachael Turner, Shona Kelly & Nicole Bailey.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

The teams lining up before the final

ICA Sports to get the Cambridgeshire Junior Invitation Cup Final underway kicking off 1st half wearing royal blue shirts with a white and navy band across the upper chest. Royal blue shorts with blue and white hooped socks. Isleham lined up opposite wearing green shirts, black shorts and socks. ICA Sports putting the ball long to the left early on Isleham able to see it out for a goalkick as Donna Nicholls gives chase

 ICA Sports put pressure on the ball prevent Isleham getting out of their half win a throw high on the left the ball worked in towards the top of the area, Livi Caffarelli defending for Isleham. Breaking up an ICA Sports attack Isleham bring the ball away on the left, Lily Turner carrying it forwards plays the pass inside to Vicky Beeton as she crosses over halfway, the midfielder sending the pass on out to the left with Amy Ellis providing the run taking the ball down to the byline sends a cross flashing in along the face of the ICA Sports goal, Laura Todd closing in on the far post isn’t too far away from connecting with the ball.

  Isleham bringing the ball on again right side this time the ball sent in towards Todd making a run into the area near side, Becky Shields, ICA Sports captain going with her heading the ball putting it away to the right Isleham retrieving the cross swept in goalkeeper Claire Knibbs claiming the ball. ICA Sports break through the centre the ball pushed on through to attacker Lorna Hart in behind strikes the ball from 25 yards out pulls her effort wide of the post. 

Becky Shields winning the header for ICA Sports Ladies

 

 Following a corner on the left ICA Sports have bodies forwards as they squeeze possession back from Isleham Jessica Farchica closing in on the top of the area seeing her shot charged down goes after the rebound out to the right getting hold of the ball holding off a challenge turned well to get inside attack the goal near post, goalkeeper Kathleen Tilbrook making a great save at her near post, the ball scrambled behind for a corner kick. Caffarelli with another good defensive challenge to deny Zoe Luddy for ICA Sports as she breaks beyond the midfield played in by Hart central.    

GOAL! ICA Sports score the opening goal of the game taking an early lead as they did in the League Cup Final. The ball played on down the left Nicholls with Megan Purnell getting on her pass slide on into the box Hart timing her run perfectly getting onto the ball and picking her spot left of goal sends the ball past the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

Lorna Hart opens the scoring for ICA Sports Ladies

ICA Sports look to build on their lead Hart going towards the ball played out to the right holding it up well outside the Isleham area before shifting it inside to fire a cross along the six yard box, two ICA Sports players at the far post Purnell one of then, controls and spins into a shot, the ball charged down. Isleham get the ball clear, ICA Sports regain central and turn play around, Farchica moving with the ball towards the top of the area is stopped by Caffarelli.

  Isleham make a double change Olivia Menton and Kate Theobald off on come Anita Butters and Rachael Turner. Caffarelli with a fantastic tackle on Hart to stop the attacker as she looks to force her way past her into the box. Todd comes off for Isleham, Nicole Bailey coming on. Annabelle Marsh breaks forwards for Isleham as they build through the middle the ball out to her on the left side, Holly Partner getting back on her to tackle for ICA Sports. Lily Turner getting up to support Marsh latching onto the ball delivering a cross into the area the ball claimed by Knibbs.

Isleham United Ladies, Livi Caffarelli

Caffarelli winning the ball at the back for Isleham is fouled as she tries to carry it out from the back. Hart moves away into the right channel as Luddy plays the pass from the middle out to her the attacker turning her marker as she enters the box and making a driving run towards the near post tries to lift a shot over the keeper with the outside of her boot, Tilbrook holding onto the ball for Isleham. Rhian Leonard moving over to the left for ICA Sports looks to have gotten clear in behind as a clearance rebounds off her from Caffarelli, the defender showing great pace however recovers well getting back on her inside the box sliding in to take the ball away for a corner. 

Her knees taking a bit of a battering upon the artificial surface Caffarelli comes off after treatment on the pitch, Menton coming back on going to left back as Ellis drops back into the defence. Ellis called into action straight away defending well up against Hart as the ball is fired low into her from the left. Carmen Herridge has come on to join the attack for ICA Sports Ladies replacing Purnell. Herridge attacking the ball top of the area left channel, Ellis closing the ball down for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Amy Ellis

   Purnell isn’t of for long as she replaces Leonard for ICA Sports. Isleham captain Donna Woodcock defending up against Hart inside the box as Herridge moving to the right sends the cross back into the area. The corner conceded the ball put into the mix from the right is clear by Isleham falling to Purnell positioned inside the D her 1st time strike is well wide of the mark. Sarah Rouse defending for ICA Sports as Isleham’s Bailey looks to get in behind through the middle. 

Carmen Herridge with the ball for ICA Sports Ladies

Caffarelli back on for Isleham straight away wins the ball back form Hart as she looks to find a crossing position on the left. Isleham launching a counter attack Lily Turner showing a good turn of pace bringing the ball on up the left wing covering alot of ground the ball squared across the face of the ICA Sports area, Ellis pressing the defender on the ball steals possession and turning into the box fires a shot in towards goal, Knibbs getting down makes a great save. Woodcock with a fine recovering tackle as Purnell latches onto a poor kick out from the back looking to get herself into the box.

GOAL! The half -time whistle approaching ICA Sports extend their lead attacking down the left the ball cut inside brought into the area and stabbed in near post Herridge on the end of the cross spinning into the shot and sending the ball past the keeper and over the line 0-2.

Half-time Isleham United Ladies 0-2 ICA Sports Ladies

  2-0 the half-time lead for ICA Sports Ladies have dominated play without really getting into their stride. Largely down to the fact Isleham have pressed the ball really well, winning several vital challenges at the back preventing ICA Sports getting one on one with the keeper. Have attacked themselves with limited success but after conceding an early goal haven’t let the game get away from them, ICA Sports managing to double their lead on the stroke of half-time.

Onto the 2nd half both sides making a goalkeeper change at the beginning of both playing an outfield player in the position. Knibbs is replaced by Hart, Tilbrook replaced by Bailey. The floodlights on for the 2nd half it’s Isleham to get thing’s underway. ICA Sports put pressure on the ball straight away getting it on win a corner on the right. 

  Isleham get the ball forwards Shona Kelly and Todd also on for Isleham the ball out to the left for Lily Turner runs with the ball before sending a cross into the area, Hart taking the ball into her body at the near post. Lily Turner fed the ball on the left takes it on once again sweeping a cross into the area Rouse defends for ICA Sports with Rachael Turner closing in from the right flank. An encouraging start to the 2nd half for Isleham Beeton taking a shot at the ICA Sports goal from distance the strike wide. Pressing the ball well all over the pitch. Antonucci defending for ICA Sports at left back as she gets in between Rachael Turner and Beeton as they look to link up attacking down the right.

Beeton getting forwards into the area as Isleham get bodies forwards ends up fouling Rouse as she gets control of the ball. Rouse with a good piece of defending at the top of her area as Lily Turner attacking down the left sends the ball in across the area, Todd looking to try and bring it down, Rachael Turner closing in the ICA Sports central defender winning the ball. Up the other end Isleham need to be wary of getting hit on the break Farchica on for Herridge, she tries to muscle he way through into the box Caffarelli defending for Isleham.

Isleham United Ladies, Laura Todd

  Lily Turner with the ball attacking for Isleham left side cuts inside 30 yards out Kelly in support takes on the shot the ball gathered by the keeper. Claire Knibbs joining the action up top for ICA Sports. Knibbs with a run into the right channel fed the ball from the wing, shifts the ball well between her feet inside the D before sending a shot skipping off the surface in towards goal Bailey making a good reactive save with her feet. Farchica winning the ball in the middle slides it on for Knibbs looking to attack the Isleham box, Ellis with a good tackle conceding the corner. 

ICA Sports Ladies, Donna Nicholls

  ICA Sports having started the 2nd half slowly are starting to build momentum winning a corner on the right the ball swung in near post attacked by Shields knocked on into the middle claimed by Bailey. Nicholls on the left for ICA Sports Antonucci getting up with her to support, Knibbs taking the ball on to the byline cutting a cross back in along the face of goal, Bailey able to gather for Isleham. Knibbs caught in an offside position a couple of occasions.

  Kelly cutting the ball out in the middle for Isleham sets up an attack Rachael Turner away on the right taking the ball to the edge of the box looking for Todd making a run near post gets her foot around the ball sends it wide into the side netting. Rachael Turner getting help from Beeton on the right wins her side a corner kick, a great delivery in towards the top of the six yard box near post Kelly there unmarked gets her head on the ball sends it up over the crossbar.

  Rouse intercepting at the back for ICA Sports brings the ball on before playing it out to Nicholls on the left, support from Knibbs, Woodcock defending for Isleham. Nicholls with the ball left side comes on a one two with Knibbs the final ball played into the area too heavy for Nicholls to run onto. Shields getting back well to push the ball into her keeper as Todd makes a strong central run for Isleham as the ball is rolled into her path. Changes for Isleham Butters back on Jade Flack also on for Todd up front. 

 Nicholls dropping her shoulder looks to take the ball inside from the left, Caffarelli closing her down for Isleham regaining possession. Bailey makes the save as Farchica gets herself forwards and into space for ICA Sports in attack top of the area looks to open her body curl the shot around the keeper, Bailey getting her gloves onto the ball. 15 minute left ICA Sports having to work to keep their 2 goal lead are starting to find spaces appearing at the back, Knibbs with some clever runs to draw players out.

  A free-kick right on the edge of the area for ICA Sports, Purnell rushing up to take it, gets her strike up and over the wall but Bailey is there in the right place to catch the ball. Rouse with the defensive header as Isleham send the ball long through the middle. Rachael Turner in behind on the right a low cross in along six yard box Hart scooping the ball up for ICA Sports. 

 GOAL! Isleham have down well 2nd half finally though their defence is breached for a 3rd time as ICA Sports make the scoreline more comfortable in the final 5 minutes of the game, Rouse getting forwards playing the ball on for Knibbs right side taking in towards the corner of the area fires a low shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner 0-3.

Isleham press the ball through the middle Harwood getting it on for Flack trying to force her way into the area, challenging the defender, the ball is squeezed through Harwood latching onto it sending her shot over the bar. Antonucci backed up by Rouse regains the ball inside the area as Beeton attacks it down the right. A late free-kick for ICA Sports halfway inside the Isleham half Purnell to flight the ball on into the area, attacked near post Bailey does well a corner conceded the ball landing on the roof of he net. The final whistle goes and ICA Sports win the final 3-0 and end their season with double cup success.

Full time Isleham United Ladies 0-3 ICA Sports Ladies

   An entertaining 2nd half to the game. Isleham United Ladies giving a good account of themselves attacked well 2nd half and for a spell looking the more likely to score. ICA Sports having to work for the win in the end. Took their chances well in the 1st half going 2-0 ahead a 3rd goal coming late on to make thing’s comfortable. An enjoyable final if very chilly. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Picking this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match it’s a close run thing between 2 players one for either side and both wearing the number 6 shirt. Have to pick one however those are the rules. Livi Caffarelli with some great defensive work at the back for Isleham United Ladies, contested every ball and make more than one tackle inside her box to prevent a shot being taken. Sarah Rouse takes the award up the other end for ICA Sports. Making some vital challenges winning headers. Composed as Isleham gained some confidence in attack in the 2nd period.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners 2017/18 ICA Sports Ladies

Congratulations to ICA Sports on winning this evening’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final and completing a Cup Double.

  My thanks to both sides for there help with the teams and describing the 3rd goal to as I completely missed it. Happens sometimes. Think that’s my finals over for the season but temptation might get the better of me.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

The final games in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League once again proving to be an exciting league to follow it was Finals Day this Sunday at AFC Kempston Rovers. The Women’s League Cup & The Chris Renshaw Cup. I would have liked to have been there but with 5 finals converging on one day couldn’t although I really liked the look of both games. A morning kick -off for The Chris Renshaw Cup, the final edition of this season’s Beds & Herts Round-Up begins with the League Cup Final.

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

A fantastic season so far for St Albans Ladies leading Beds & Herts Women’s Division One all season and going on to win the title without losing a game. Now they were looking for the Double in the League Cup Final up against Northwood Ladies who themselves had clinched runners-up spot in Division One in their debut season. 

Kerry Twigg scoring just past the half hour to put St Albans into the lead. 1-0 the advantage going into half-time. Northwood coming back to level the scores with 20 minutes left in the game. St Albans getting their noses back in front with Eleanor Lovelock on target for what would prove to be the winning goal. St Albans Ladies completing a memorable League & Cup Double. As in with Essex League Cup winners Corringham Cosmos I asked the winning club if they would like to send over a few words and their report from the game is below.

‘ST. ALBANS LADIES FC     2      NORTHWOOD LADIES FC    1.
 After winning the league title the St Albans Ladies set out to try and complete the double when they took on Northwood Ladies in the League Cup Final at AFC Kempston with their opponents going to be a tough nut to crack as they were runners-up to them in the league.
 Early on in the match Suz Read whipped over a low cross from the right wing which went right across the box but Ellen Salter racing in on the far side saw the ball cleared away by a Northwood defender, For Northwood saw Scarlett Keightley race clear into the Saints box but keeper Lauren Croucher was quick off her line to block the shot with her legs. Kayla Johnson then saw her low drive from the right wing go just wide of the far upright whilst at the other end Emma Steele with two fine free kicks one after another saw them both whistle just wide of Lauren Croucher’s right hand post. For the St Albans Ladies Ellie Lovelock cutting in from the right saw her shoot just wide of the left hand post whilst although Northwood applied a lot of pressure on the Saints goal with Emma Steele and Scarlett Keightley both causing lots of problems the Saints managed to hold out with some good defending from Holly Rossington, Becca Roft, Robyn McFayden and Cerys Low whilst keeper Lauren Croucher show her real fine form with some safe handling around the box and so keep the scores level.
 With half time approaching saw the St Albans Ladies take a surprise lead when both Ellie Lovelock and Ellen Salter both had efforts which were blocked whereupon the ball ran loose to KERRY TWIGG who struck a brilliant low drive from 25 yards for a great finish which saw the ball whistle pass keeper Becky Guillemin and end up nestling in the bottom left corner and give the St Albans Ladies a 1-0 lead at half time.
 During the first half striker SUZ READ was taken off with a knee injury and did not take part in any more of the match and she was replaced by Katie Grehan up front.
  In the second half kicking down the slope still the Ladies did not find their real form but Sophie Lawrence tried her luck from long range and she saw her effort go just wide of the near upright. Kayla Johnson then saw her good ball into the box headed towards goal by Katie Grehan but the Northwood keeper Guillemin pulled off a good save.
Ellen Salter tried hard down the left wing but just could not get the breaks in around the box and then Becca Roft made a good run into the box and was brought down but no penalty was given.
  Finally for Northwood after a bit of pressure they scored an equaliser when Emma STEELE(no relation Tommy) won the ball and burst into the box from the right whereupon saw he bury the ball into the far left corner to make the score 1-1.
Oh dear not extra time as the previous match saw extra time and penalties as Kayla Johnston’s flight from Heathrow Airport left at 9:30pm so the Ladies decided she can’t miss her holiday and went in search of the winning goal. After forcing a succession of corner kicks following a lot of pressure the winning goal came.
 Ellen Salter swung the corner kick over from the right hand side whereupon it gradually fell to ELLIE LOVELOCK just inside the box and after taking a sidestep to her left she instantly struck a sweet low shot into the far right corner for the winning goal and to make the final score 2-1 to the Lady Saints. (Tezza was singing and dancing now). It nearly became 3-1 when after yet another Ellen Salter corner kick saw Katie Grehan overhead kick well saved by Becky Guillemin. We not forget Caroline Hughes who covered just a much ground as she was kept busy running onto the pitch with physio bag treating all the knocks. Team: Lauren Croucher, Katie Chandler, Nicola Dark, Sophie Lawrence, Jessica Cavaree, Cerys Low, Robyn McFayden, Holly Rossingdon, Kerry Twigg, Ellen Salter, Kayla Johnson, Becca Roft, Kiran Reyat, Ellie Lovelock, Suz Read, Katie Grehan(all played).
 We are the Champions, We are the Champions, We are the Champions and we also have done the League and Cup double, Well done the Saints Ladies. Congratulations on a brilliant season.
Also we must not forget the Saints Supporters who turned up who kept chanting throughout the whole of the match to cheer their team onto victory.
 I must also say a special thank you to Michelle & Chris Chandler for doing all the work behind the scenes for getting this successful team up and running. THANK YOU.’

St Albans Ladies 2017/18 Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Winners

 Congratulations to St Albans Ladies on winning this season’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup and completing the Double.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

First up though was a morning kick-off in The Chris Renshaw Cup Final, into it’s 2nd season. This season’s finalists Division One side Sherrardswood Ladies up against Division Town side Letchworth Garden City Eagles. A battling display from the lower league placed side seeing the sides finish 1-1, neither able to find a winning goal in extra-time the game headed to penalties. Heartbreak for Sherrardswood, joy for Letchworth as they emerged 5-4 winners to win the cup. Once more I’ve asked the winning club to provide some words and below is manager Warren Shimill’s report for the final. 

‘Letchworth Garden City Eagles, Division Two versus Sherrardswood Ladies from Division One, all previous meetings have gone in favour of Sherrardswood . So going into the game Letchworth were certainly the under dogs and Sherrardswood probably expected a win today. But what they didn’t expect was every Eagles player bringing their ‘A’ game to the match.   Eagles matched the opposition in the first 15 minutes and were bossing the game until Shemika Holloway for Letchworth was taken off to hospital due to a nasty fall and twist, Eagles had most of the possession with attack after attack,  one of which found Tayla Murray setting Emily Jamieson to lob the goalkeeper from 25 yards out. 0-1 Eagles.
It wasn’t until the second half that Sherrardswood found themselves in the Letchworth penalty area.  A player falling down in the area was awarded a penalty and it remained 1-1 until full time. Forcing extra time and with neither side scoring it was always going to penalty time. Both teams were dead on their legs after 120 minutes of none stop entertaining football.
So penalties began and soon reached 3-3 but with a save by Hannah Ross in the Letchworth goal it turned 3-4 in Letchworth’s favour. 4-4  with Letchworth needing to score to win, the 5th penalty was left with Natalie Moey ex Sherrardswood player and Eagles senior player and top goal scorer, cool as a cucumber Moey slotted the ball to the keepers left which meant the outcome was 4-5 to Letchworth.
Both teams gave 100% on a hot morning, it was a great final and a brilliant advert for women’s football.’

Letchworth manager Warren Shimell said
“I have been asked many times why do I run a ladies football team?”
The answer is simple “for days like today”

Letchworth Garden City Eagles, Winners of this season’s Chris Renshaw Cup (picture credit Letchworth Garden City Eagles)

 Congratulations to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on winning this season’s Chris Renshaw Cup.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

 All over in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the final matches played this weekend. St Ives Town Ladies already crowned Champion’s finishing their season in midweek with a home win against runners-up Newmarket Town Ladies. 3-0 the final score a brace from Katie Stancombe along with a goal from Amy Seymour-Shove securing the result.

  Newmarket back in action on Sunday away to 3rd placed Netherton United Ladies the two sides playing for the last time this season. A winning end to the season for Newmarket Town Ladies, Laura Bailey netting twice along with a goal each for Abbi Griffin and Antonia Smith in a 4-1 win.

  A double header to end the season between March Town United Ladies at home to Cambridge City Ladies Development, 4th versus 5th could have swapped places if results had gone March’s way, instead it was Cambridge City who made 4th their own winning both games 2-0. Bella Simmons and Megan Tonks on target with a goal apiece in the 1st game. Tonks got both of the Cambridge City goals in the 2nd game. A 5th placed finish for March in their 1st season in the Premiership.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

 Almost over too in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North as Riverside Ladies move into top position level on points with Ketton Ladies with 2 left to play. The late entrants to the league dominating losing just the one league game won 7-1 at home to Wisbech Town Ladies in midweek to close the gap to 3 points on leaders Ketton. Wisbech Town finishing 3rd in the table playing for the final time this season. 

  A home match against 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies on Sunday for Riverside. Jade Ramm scoring a hat-trick for the Peterborough based side. Samantha Woodham with a brace with Gabija Pavlova, Dionne Lawton and Lianna Bell all getting a goal in an 8-0 win. A double header at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies to come this Sunday and already with their noses in front on goal difference only a point is needed to ensure the league is won.

Spalding United Ladies were away to Pinchbeck United Ladies this Sunday in their penultimate game of the season. Scoring 4 goals without reply in the game collected all three points.

  An encouraging end to the season for Orton Rangers Ladies having struggled for much of the season end the season earning 8 points from their last 5 matches. A 2nd successive win in their final game of the season at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies. A single goal enough to win the 3 points end the season on a positive note.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

 Two big wins for Histon Ladies Reserves in their final two games of the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South saw them not only move into the lead at the top of the table but overhaul their title rivals Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds superior goal difference too. A midweek win at home to bottom side Burwell Tigers 11-0 moving them level on points with the leaders. Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks top scoring in the game with a hat-trick. Were at home on Sunday for the final time this season taking on Cambridge Rangers another huge win 13-0 saw Histon move 3 points clear at the top ahead on goal difference with Fulbourn in action for the final time on Tuesday against Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves.

  Before then Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves were in action on Sunday away to St Ives Town Development knowing a point or better would secure them 3rd position in the Championship South table. A close game between the sides, goals from Kate Silver Dominika Szary and Sarah O’Rourke seeing Newmarket win the game 3-2 to claim 3rd spot.

  Onto the final game of the season a win the requirement for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to Newmarket Town Reserves if they wanted to finish level with Histon at the top. Fulbourn winning the game 5-2 to finish level on points with Histon at the top of the table both losing just the one game each all season.

NB – Jumped the gun by declaring Histon Ladies Reserves league winners as according to league rules finishing level on points there must be a play-off game. Wasn’t aware of this the date for the game to be announced.

 

The Round-Up – Essex 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

Essex Women’s League Cup

 This Sunday saw the Final of the Essex Women’s League Cup being played at Runwell Sports FC. Corringham Cosmos winners of the League Cup last season in their debut season in women’s football once again reaching the final defending their trophy up against strong opponents in Lawford Ladies both sides still well in contention for the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Had met the weekend before Lawford scoring the blow winning the game 5-2 the first loss in the league for Corringham Cosmos’ young side this season. 

  Corringham Cosmos taking an early lead in the final held a 3-0 advantage at the break, Lawford getting 2 goals back in the 2nd half through Erin Hornby and Susan Jackson, Corringham Cosmos went on to score 3 more times themselves to win 6-2 and win the Essex Women’s League Cup for the 2nd successive season. 

 A little extra for The Round-Up this time seeings as I couldn’t be there I asked the winning side for a brief report from the game and Corringham Cosmos manager Irving Lyon was kind enough to supply a few words…

 ‘In only our second season in ladies football we again went into the final as underdogs as we had lost to Lawford only the week before in the league.
However an early goal by free scoring centre-forward Chloe Sams quickly calmed the pre-match nerves and further goals from Shellie Sumpter and Becky Gallagher meant that we went in 3-0 up at half time.
Lawford started the second half strongly, quickly reducing the deficit to 3-1 but Cosmos showed their usual resolve, determination and team spirit to increase the lead to 5-1 with further goals from Chloe Sams and Shellie Sumpter before Lawford scored a 2nd. Fittingly Chloe Sams completed the scoring and her hat-trick to ensure the Cup was staying in Corringham.
Just by way of back ground info the team is celebrating a decade together having started as U11s, with quite a few of the originals still playing and I’m the lucky fella who has coached them throughout with a lot of help from a good friend Martin Painter. The secret to the success has been the loyalty shown to the club by the girls the best example of which is girls regularly making long trips home from University to turn out for the team.’

Corringham Cosmos, 2017/18 Essex Women’s League Cup Winners (picture credit Corringham Cosmos)

 Congratulations to Corringham Cosmos on successfully defending the Essex Women’s League Cup.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Both Corringham Cosmos with games in hand and Lawford Ladies remain in contention for the title in the Essex Women’s Premier Division as are Hatfield Peverel Ladies and Frontiers Ladies. None in league action this Sunday, Collier Row Tigers move back up into 5th position in the table with 2 wins from their double header at Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Laura Bunton, top scorer for Collier Row Tigers and Rebecca Killington grabbing the goals in a narrow 2-1 win in the first game Ella Jones scoring for Beacon Hill Rovers.

28 goals for the season for Bunton as she also scored in the 2nd game. Daisy Chapman, Marta Chozury, Sarah Finch and Emily Dempsey also on target with a goal each in a 5-2 result for Collier Row Tigers. Demi Cassie and Jo Smeaton getting the Beacon Hill Rovers goals.

 A double header too this Sunday between Harlow Town Ladies Reserves and Runwell Sports Ladies. A 6 point haul for Harlow Town taking them above Runwell into 8th position. Casey Lunn getting the only goal in the first game for Harlow Town, Lunn also on target with a goal in the 2nd game with Charlotte Bolton, Rhiann Patmore and Tegan Burling with a brace securing a 5-0 win for Harlow Town.

Essex Women’s Division One

Also a couple of double headers in Essex Women’s Division One as the race for the title looks set to go all the way. First up the lead changes hand at the top once again as Leigh Ramblers Ladies win away from home against Rayleigh Town Ladies. Eleasha Reeves and Anna Winfield both scoring a goal in each half for Rayleigh Town. Leigh Ramblers with a 3-1 advantage at half-time went on to win 6-2, Amber Denton and Paige White both getting a goal with Clare Gilligan and Katherine Newton both scoring 2 goals in the game. Moves Leigh Ramblers back to the top on goal difference with Southend United Ladies both have 2 games left to play.

  3rd placed Hullbridge Sports Ladies are 6 points behind the leading pair but crucially have 3 games left in hand on both. Were playing a double header this Sunday at Walden Ladies. Hullbridge’s top goal scorer, Broghan Kelly on fire in the 1st match scoring 4 of her sides goals in a 5-0 victory. Christina Fragnito also on target with a goal. 

  In the second game Kelly added a further goal to her tally moving her onto an incredible 49 goals for the season. Danni Dorrington also scoring in the game along with a brace for Megan Marney in a 4-1 win.

Also a double header between 5th placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies and Alresford Colne at the weekend. Ammarah Ali scoring the only goal of the game in Dagenham & Redbridge’s win in the first game. A 2-0 win for Dagenham & Redbridge in the second match Daisy Theobald scoring both of their goals. The double victory lifting Dagenham & Redbridge into 4th place in the Division One table with 2 games left to play.

 

 

The Round-Up – Suffolk 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Suffolk Women’s Division

East Bergholt United Ladies have done it completed the Double, League and Cup Winners in the Suffolk Women’s Division and going the entire season unbeaten along the way. 

Knew a point in their final league game of the season at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies would be enough after their title rivals lost in midweek beaten at home by Leiston St Margarets who themselves playing their last game of the season have had a solid campaign securing a mid-table finish. 4th placed Walsham Le Willows no longer able to catch East Bergholt, 2nd placed Bacton United Ladies could pose a threat to the title if they didn’t get the job done at home themselves. Annie Northwood giving East Bergholt a 1-0 half-time lead a brace from Cara Savage setting up the celebrations in the 2nd half as East Bergholt won the game 3-1 to become Champions. A successful season for East Bergholt who have brought several young players up through their side and will continue to do so.

East Bergholt United Ladies, Suffolk Women’s Division Champions. (picture credit East Bergholt United Ladies)

 Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on completing the League and Cup double this season.

 Congratulations too, to Bacton United Ladies who have secured runners-up spot with a huge win in their final game of the season away to Ipswich Athletic Ladies. Lois Balfour netting 5 goals in the game. Rebecca White and Francesca Rainbird with a brace each, Courtney Hutchinson on the scoresheet too in a 10-0.

The outcome of an abandoned game to be decided, but it’s all over in Suffolk for another season.

 

The Round-Up – Norfolk 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

Norfolk Women’s Division One

The race for the title is back on after leaders Bungay Town Ladies playing their final league game of the season at home to Gorleston FC Ladies, missed out on the win that would have made the title almost certain after they only secured a draw. Goals from Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake securing a 2-2 draw for Gorleston in their final game of the campaign currently 4th and certain to secure a mid-table finish following promotion last season. A point for Bungay a blow leaving them just 4 points clear of second placed Sprowston Ladies who had 2 games in hand.

 Bungay’s hopes of clinching a double out of their hands no on to Sprowston who themselves have an opportunity to complete a double. Two tough games to play however both away starting this Sunday against 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies. The sides drawing 0-0 at half-time a brace from top scorer Victoria Leyer taking her onto 23 for the season securing a 2-0 win for Sprowston and moves them to within a point of Bungay. A win away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves this coming Sunday will see them take the title.

   Also in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday North Walsham Angels Ladies were playing their penultimate game of the season away to bottom side Long Stratton Ladies who were bringing the curtain down on what has been a difficult season. Sadly without a point, despite Emily Watts getting on the scoresheet a brace from Hope Middleton along with goals each for Luci Middleton, Rachel Bussey, Mary-Anne Hoy and Abbie Storey seeing North Walsham win the game 6-1. Finish their season away to Fakenham Town Ladies this coming Sunday.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

FAWPL Southern Division 

Charlton Athletic Women are the FAWPL Southern Division Champion’s. Retaking the lead with games in hand still on their rivals went into Sunday’s game knowing a win would ensure them the league title with 2 games to spare. Were away to 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies who secure runners-up spot themselves if they could win their final game of the season. 

  Charlton got off to a fantastic start in the game getting into the lead within the opening 10 minutes, Kit Graham finding the back of the net. Charlton created further chances to extend the lead in the 1st half but didn’t take any held a narrow lead going into the break. Just 2 minutes into the 2nd half Charlton doubled their advantage Graham again then just 4 minutes later she completed her hat-trick to move her onto 199 goals for Charlton and put the visitors in control of the game. Closing in on the hour Graham scored a 4th goal for Charlton bringing up her 200th for Charlton from 207 appearance a fantastic achievement massive congratulations to Kit Graham now on 42 for the season. The goals ensuring Charlton got the win that saw them become Champion’s.

  Defeat for Crystal Palace in their final game of the season sees them finish 3rd in the table building on 5th in what was their debut season at this level last year. Blackburn Rovers Ladies have secured the FAWPL Northern Division title and will face Charlton in the FAWPL Play-off game held this year at Sheffield United FC’s Bramall Lane on Sun 27th May.

That result coupled with a win for win for C&K Basildon Ladies in their final match of the season away to Chichester City Ladies ensured they ended their remarkable season with a 2nd placed finish in the FAWPL Southern Division table. The Essex side making everyone nervous in the process however as they eventual found a winning goal with 5 minutes of the season left! Captain Zoe Rushen getting the telling touch inside the penalty box to get the crucial goal and see C&K Basildon secure runners-up spot.

  A point from their final game of the season will ensure Lewes FC Women finish in 4th place in the FAWPL Southern Division, that is of course if Coventry United Ladies can claim maximum points in their remaining games in hand. A fantastic season for Lewes real progress made on the pitch this season. Playing the final home game of the season against Cardiff City Ladies the sides looked to be heading in goalless at the break until Danielle Lane got the ball over the line  for Lewes in the final 5 minutes. 10 minutes into the 2nd half a goal from Rachel Carter made it 2-0 to Lewes. Lane adding her 2nd of the game to make it 3-0 5 minutes later. 3-0 up Lewes’ Georgia Bridges added their 4th goal in the closing stages of the game. Lewes are away to West Ham United Ladies for their final game of the season this coming Sunday. Cardiff City ending their season in 10th spot a difficult campaign but results elsewhere mean they can not be caught.

Portsmouth FC Ladies finished their season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. An opportunity for the club to play at Fratton Park in their final match and put on a show for their fans. Charley Boswell firing Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half two quickfire goals from Samantha Quayle and Daisy McLachlan in the 38th & 39th minute putting Portsmouth into a strong 3-0 half-time lead.

 In the 70th minute Portsmouth were awarded a penalty Rachel Panting stepping up to take and scored to make it 4-0. Quayle adding her 2nd of the game in the final 10 minutes, Another penalty awarded to Portsmouth this time the taker Emma-Jane May her shot going in for her first Portsmouth goal. QPR grabbing a late consolation with Chontele Lawrence on target. A 6-1 win for Portsmouth to end the season a pretty good campaign overall and certainly a great platform to build on from next season. QPR will finish 2nd bottom despite having 2 games left to play. Will have to see how the league structure is changed around over the close season to see if it’s enough to stay up.

Coventry United Ladies are in the midst of a hectic schedule as they look to get in all their fixtures before the end of the season in action on Tuesday were at home again on Sunday taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. Stephanie Smith putting Coventry into an early lead. Jade Formaston and Lois Jefferies also with goals in the 1st half to see Coventry into a 3-0 half-time lead. Keeley Davies extending Coventry’s lead further in the 2nd half Marie Gauntlett wrapping up a 5-0 win in the final 5 minutes. Back at it a home again this Tuesday, Coventry taking in bottom side Swindon Town Ladies playing their final game of the season. Another league game on Thursday too at home to Queens Park Rangers as they look to get the season wrapped up by the 20th May. 2 points behind Portsmouth.

FAWPL South East Division One

New leaders in FAWPL South East Division One as Milton Keynes Dons Ladies move into top spot ahead of AFC Wimbledon Ladies on goal difference with a big win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. A busy end to the season for Milton Keynes Dons picking up the 3 points with a 2-0 win away to Actonians Ladies in midweek. 

  5-0 up against Haringey at half-time, a brace from Leah Cudone along with goals for Laura Mills, Dawn Mallett and Kim Farrow. Milton Keynes adding even more goals in the 2nd half both Louise Naylor and Heather McDonnell scoring a hat-trick each a brace too for captain Leanna Doyle. Alice Hughes, Zoe Boote and Anna Loftus also on the scoresheet in a 16-1 win. Julia Carruthers with the consolation goal for Haringey. Milton Keynes Dons with a game in hand over Wimbledon coming up this Wednesday at the Stadium MK up against Stevenage Ladies a win will see them needing just a point to win the league title in their final game of the season on Sunday away to Haringey.

Ipswich Town Ladies have already secured a 3rd placed finish in FAWPL South East Division One were away to 5th placed Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. A goalless 1st period between the sides it was Ipswich who broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Natasha Thomas on target with her 30th goal of the season to make it 1-0. Miagh Downey doubling the visitors lead with 12 minutes left on the clock. Ipswich going on to win the 3 points despite Luton pulling it back to 2-1 in the closing stages with a goal from Jess McKay.

   That result for Luton ensures a top fur finish for Leyton Orient WFC in their debut season playing at this level. They were at home on Sunday playing Stevenage Ladies. Rebecca Scola giving Stevenage the lead in the game late in the first half. Leyton Orient coming back to level the scores and go on to take the lead Sarka Stryhalova and Hannah Porter getting the goals. A chance to extend the lead further too from the penalty spot the chance missed the ball put over the bar. Stevenage getting a penalty up the other end and Amy Makewell making no mistake to level it up at 2-2 and see the points shared.

Norwich City Ladies were hosting Cambridge United WFC on Sunday both playing their penultimate game of the season. Norwich improving under new manager Grant Palmer took the lead in the game in the 20th minute Chelsea Garrett with the goal. The lead doubled on the half hour Aimee Durrant getting the ball into the back of the net. Conceding a penalty right on the stroke of half-time Cambridge reduced the deficit to 2-1 with Amy Howell sending the ball home. Cambridge getting it back to 2-2 midway through the 2nd half substitute Mollie Coupar with her first touch of the game scoring her first goal for the 1st team. Norwich having lost their 2-0 lead kept going to the end and retook the lead with just 2 minutes left on the clock Garrett with her 2nd of the match to see Norwich get the 3-2 win.