County Cup action all the way in Norfolk this Sunday with the competition seeing 3 ties played in the 1st Round of the competition. Holders Wymondham Town Ladies going through courtesy of an away win against Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies.
Of the 3 ties played it was a high scoring win for Gorleston FC Ladies away to Division Two newcomers Hockering Ladies in the 1st Round. Starting the season well in Division One Gorleston were too strong goalscorers throughout the side the home side losing 15-0 as Gorleston comfortably progress to the 2nd Round.
A scare for Division One side, Aylsham ladies in their 1st Round match in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup were away to Division Two newcomers Thetford Town Ladies the hosts taking the lead in the game had further chances to extend the lead before Aylsham found their rhythm going onto to win the tie 6-1 to progress to the 2nd Round. Sophie Lubbock and Hannah Sturman both scoring a brace with a goal apiece too for Amber Mayhew and Vicki Lubbock.
Sprowston Ladies from Norfolk Women’s Division One were playing host to higher league opponents King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the 1st Round of the County Cup this Sunday. The ERWFL Division One side advancing to the 2nd Round courtesy of a 3-0 victory. Tiffany Forshaw scoring twice with Rochelle Woods the other goalscorer for King’s Lynn Town.
The draw for the 2nd Round filmed live at Thorpe St Andrew High School pupils drawing the teams for the 7 ties with one side receiving a bye, to be played Sunday 18th November and is as follows:-
County Cup weekend in Essex with 6 ties taking place in the 2nd Round of the competition this Sunday. We’ll start with a thrilling tie between Leigh Ramblers Ladies from the Essex Women’s Premier Division up against ERWFL Division One side, Lawford Ladies. The tie won in the dying seconds of injury time by Leigh Ramblers after the pair had drawn 4-4 in regular time before sharing a further 5 goals in the extra period of play, the final score 7-6! It’d be hard to describe without some insight thankfully Leigh Ramblers did and here’s what they said on twitter:-
(Quote Leigh Ramblers on twitter)
What an amazing Women’s County Cup game against @fc_lawford. 1-0 up, 3-1 down , 4-3 up but @fc_lawfordequalise in injury time. ET 5-4 up, 6-5 down, 6-6 only for @GirlsRamblers to nick it 20 seconds from time. Phew! Good luck to Lawford for the season.
Kate Newton scoring 5 of Leigh Ramblers 7 goals, Sasha Vail and Emily finding the back of the net with a goal each. An incredible game.
There were 13 goals scored to in the 2nd Round tie between Belhus Ladies and Chelmsford City Ladies. These though all going to the Premier Division side as they proved too strong an opponent for the side bottom of Division One. Georgia James top scoring in the match on target for 5 goals for Chelmsford. Lisa Overall netting a hat-trick. Mia Brisley scoring twice with Monique Black, Gaby Freedman and Rosie Coe as getting a goal each. Chelmsford will now be away to Leigh Ramblers in the 3rd Round of the Essex Women’s County Cup.
Harlow Town Ladies Development booked there place in the 3rd Round of the Essex Women’s County Cup with a good home result against fellow Premier Division side Southend United Ladies on Sunday. The hosts progressing courtesy of a 6-0 win, leading 5-0 at half-time adding a further goal in the 2nd half. Both Ciara Purdue and Hannah Smith scoring a brace, Ellie Nicholls and Kelsey Mugford both with one each. Harlow Town will be at home in the 3rd Round up against either Island Ladies or FC Clacton Ladies whose game was postponed at the weekend.
Progress in the County Cup for Hullbridge Sports Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on fellow Premier Division opponents, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A 1st win of the season too for Hullbridge having struggled for numbers early on leading the game 1-0 at half-time went on to secure a 3-1 result in the 2nd half, Danielle Dorrington, Sophie Scanlon and Ashleigh Searle getting the goals for Hullbridge. Ella Sach scoring for Beacon Hill Rovers. An away tie in the 3rd Round awaits most likely against Rayleigh Town Ladies although their tie against Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves is still undecided.
Both Hutton sides were in action in the 2nd Round of the Essex Women’s County Cup this Sunday, with both achieving positive results that will see them meet in the 3rd Round. Hutton Ladies 1st team playing in ERWFL Division One were away playing Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Collier Row Tigers, a 2-1 lead for Hutton in the 1st half was matched in the 2nd to see the higher league side progress with a 4-2 win. Vicky Kinsman continuing her fine scoring form for Hutton netting a hat-trick with Laura Allen also getting on the scoresheet. Emily Dempsey with both goals for Collier Row Tigers.
Hutton Ladies Reserves were at home on Sunday playing fellow Division One side, Chigwell Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup. Hutton going through to the 3rd Round with a 2-0 scoreline. Their captain Kirsti McLeavey getting one of the goals and unfortunate own goal securing the win setting up an all Hutton 3rd Round tie. All 4 games scheduled to be played Sunday 18th November.
Essex Women’s Division One
One league match played at the weekend in Essex Women’s Division One, Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. A point for both as they drew the game 1-1. Millie Richards with the goal for Chelmsford City.
Like the FAWNL it was a smaller fixture list in the ERWFL this Sunday with a large number of clubs involved in their various County Cup competitions, postponements too saw just 3 matches taking place but those saw some significant results.
A 5th straight league win sees Cambridge City Ladies return to the top of the ERWFL Premier Division a big win too coming on the road against Suffolk sides AFC Sudbury Ladies. Laura Mills moving into double figures has 12 for the season now finding the back of the net 4 times on Sunday. Anna Goggin, Carla Penny and Erin Davies all scoring a brace the final score 11-1 with Shannon Shaw also on target with a goal for Cambridge City. Semma Halil with the consolation goal for Sudbury.
Was a significant result too at the other end of the Premier Division a first point of the season for both AFC Dunstable Ladies and Haringey Borough Women as they fought out a goalless draw on Sunday. A long time coming for Haringey Borough having endured a tough season in the FAWNL before dropping back down to the ERWFL their first league point in 2018.
ERWFL Division One
One game in ERWFL Division One on Sunday with Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies hosting Hertfordshire’s, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Danielle Styles putting the hosts into a 5th minute lead, Bowers & Pitsea adding two further goals midway through the 2nd half, Georgia Fraser and then 3 minutes later Emma Mackie scoring to make it 3-0. Hoddesdon pulling a goal back before the half-time break following a scramble from a corner. The visitors getting it back to 3-2 early in the 2nd period fought back to level it a 3-3 with 79 minutes played. Scoring in the opening 5 minutes, Styles added her 2nd of the game 5 minutes from the end to seal the 4-3 win for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies moving them up to 6th and right back amongst the pack above looking to catch leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves. Hoddesdon’s goalscorers Shannon Daly, Rosy Wodhams and Kristina O’Connell.
A county cup weekend this Sunday meaning clubs from the FAWNL and ERWFL had fixtures elsewhere, leaving the fixture list across the league light. 6 games taking place across both the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One aswell as the Plate competition.
A big win at the top of the Southern Premier Division as leaders, Coventry United Ladies open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table beating their closest rivals Watford FC Ladies or the 2nd successive Sunday. In the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup a week ago Coventry securing a 3-2 win away from home against Watford to progress. Were at home this Sunday facing Watford again this time in the league . Amber Hughes striking from outside the box putting Coventry into the lead scoring midway through the 2nd half, the home side awarded a penalty with Jade brook fouled inside the box. Chenise Austin scoring from the spot kick to double Coventry’s lead. 2-0 at half-time the hosts extending the lead just past the hour Marie Gauntlett getting on the scoresheet scoring from a free-kick. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Amy Wathan played through on goal sending the ball past the keeper to see Coventry secure a 4-0 win. 10 wins in a row now for Coventry.
Watford down a place to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that result with Chichester City Ladies fine start to the continued on Sunday a 6th league win of the season seeing them up to 2nd on goal difference. Were away to Queens Park Rangers Women. A devastating 10 minute spell in the 1st half seeing the visitors storm into a 3 goal lead. Hollie Wride scoring the opening goal on 12 minutes, Jade Widdows doubling the advantage just 4 minutes later. Cherelle Khassel making it 3 in the 22nd minute. QPR pulling it back to 3-1 just before half-time Jo Wilson netting the goal. QPR fought well in the 2nd half as the Chichester City defence held firm, Chontele Lawrence getting it back to 3-2 for the hosts the goal in stoppage time Chichester City holding on for the 3 points.
FAWNL Plate
Two 2nd Round ties played in the FAWNL Plate this Sunday. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies progressing with an away victory over South West Division One side Brislington Ladies. Postponed due to the wet weather last Sunday the Southern premier Division side took an early lead in the match with Leah Littlechild scoring in the 5th minute. Leah Cudone making it 2-0 7 minutes later. Alice Hughes putting MK Dons 3-0 in the 35th minute to see them comfortable with a 3-0 lead at the break. No more goals 2nd half with MK Dons defending their lead Brislington unable to find a reply.
Portsmouth FC Women were waiting to see who their opponents would be in the 2nd Round of the Plate with Keynsham Town Ladies playing fellow South West Division One opponents Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies in the 1st Round. Keynsham Town 2nd in the league advancing to set up a home tie with Portsmouth. The sides level at 1-1 at half-time Kerry Bartlett’s 39th minute equaliser cancelling out Katie James 11th minute goal for Portsmouth. 1-1 it remained heading into stoppage time, Ellie Curson finding the back of the net to see Keynsham Town win the match and knock Portsmouth out.
The draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Plate, as well as the Cup made yesterday both draws listed below:- Ties scheduled to be played Sun 9th December.
FAWNL Cup 3rd Round
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Hull City Ladies
Blackburn Rovers Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies
Stoke City Ladies v Leeds United Ladies
AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Cambridge United Women or Leyton Orient WFC
Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women
Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies
Southampton Women or Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
FAWNL Plate 3rd Round
Liverpool Feds Women v Chester Le Street Ladies
The New Saints Ladies or Bradford City Women v Barnsley Ladies
Morecambe Ladies v Middlesborough Women FC
Sporting Khalsa Women v West Bromich Albion Women
Keynsham Town Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Bedworth United Ladies
Ipswich Town Women v Stevenage Ladies
Gillingham FC Ladies v Chesham United Ladies
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies involved in County Cup action 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies took full advantage winning at home to go top of the table. Their opponents Enfield Town Ladies. It was the 5th placed side that opened the scoring however with Molly Peters running clear to score in the 17th minute. Billericay pulling the scores back level with 6 minutes left on the 1st half Zoe Rushen scoring from close range. Enfield responding well getting themselves back into the lead 3 minutes later, Jodie Southby with her 1st goal of the season putting the visitors 2-1 up. Still time for more drama in the 1st half as less than a minute later Billericay were back level, Rushen again making the near post run and beating the keeper to score. No sooner had the hosts levelled the scores for the 2nd time they went on to take the lead, Rushen on target to complete her hat-trick and see Billericay end the 1st half 3-2 up. No further goals coming 2nd half Billericay returning to the top of the South East Division One table.
A hat-trick for Zoe Rushen securing the win for Billericay Town Ladies
AFC Wimbledon Ladies were away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, Rebecca Sargent’s scoring in the 20th minute the difference between the sides at the half-time interval. Stevenage coming back to level the scores 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Jodie Whitford-Stark scoring her 1st Stevenage goal. A screamer from Katie Stanley in the 69th minute restoring AFC Wimbledon’s lead the visitors holding on to claim the 3 points and climb up a couple of places to 7th in the South East Division One table.
Another top of the table clash from the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday on Women’s Football East, the top 2 meeting both starting the season with a 100% win rate, new comers Needham Market Women leading the table hosting East Bergholt United Ladies the defending Champions.
The Suffolk Women’s Division expending this season with an influx of new sides, 13 in total for the 2018/19 campaign with 7 of those new names along with Alresford Colne Rangers who move to the league having previously competed in Essex.
Needham Market Women starting by far the better of all the newcomers. 5 wins from 5 to start the season their 100% winning start seeing them 3 points clear at the top from East Bergholt United Ladies and Brantham Athletic Ladies who have both started with 4 successive victories. A part of Needham Market FC’s Academy set up. Have bolstered their squad bringing in some ex-Bacton United Ladies players that already have experience playing in the Women’s Division. Today’s match representing the toughest challenge Needham Market have experienced so far.
If Needham Market are to get the win this afternoon than they will have to do something no one else has so far this season and that is breach the East Bergholt United Ladies defence. Did the double last season winning the league and cup. An unbeaten season too. A great start to the season as they look to defend their title. Are the team to beat know and that brings a different aspect to the squads development, a large squad backed up by an U18s side. Not conceding a goal in their opening 4 matches East Bergholt United have scored 41 goals up the other end including a 19-0 over new side University of Suffolk (albeit their opponents short on numbers on the day). Always likely to score from midfield have added Stacey Teager to their attack, regularly amongst the goals for former club AFC Sudbury Ladies.
Bloomfield’s the venue for this afternoon’s match home of Needham Market FC. The main pitch looking pristine, a clubhouse with bar and hot food leading to it. A new 3G pitch beside the main pitch, a good size, building work ongoing to improve facilities for the Academy. Room for spectators down one side aswell and behind one goal. A glorious sunny afternoon late in October in stark contrast the miserable wet Sunday just gone. Bright sun low in the sky would pose a few issues during the game. Another game on the 3G before the women’s teams could get onto it and warm-up little time for East Bergholt to get used to the new surface before kick-off.
East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Jess Quinsee, Katy Lambert, Georgia Lockerbie (C), Millie Wilding, Jess Clark, Charlotte McGrath, Katie Bruce, India Griffin-Jenkins & Stacey Teager. Subs – Deben Faiers, Elena Nitsche & Isla Romer-Lee.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s the home side to kick-off the 1st half, Needham Market wearing red shirts with yellow trim, red shorts and socks. East Bergholt United with the sun at their backs 1st half wearing green shirts with white trim, black shorts and socks. Jess Quinsee defending at left back for East Bergholt as Needham Market look to play in Eboni-Mae Shepherd on the right. Look to get the ball on down the left themselves, Charley Mussellwhite defending putting the ball out of play for Needham Market.
Building through the middle the ball up to Abbie Wilkinson, the Needham Market number 10 holding the ball up as midfielder Milly Carter gets up in support to her right the pass into her feet Carter puts the low diagonal ball through to Lois Balfour making a run into the box left of the D the pass weighted perfectly she strikes the ball goalwards past East Bergholt goalkeeper, Kimberly Lynch as she throws herself into the dive the ball strikes the base of the post the rebound back out into the middle of the six yard box, Lynch twisting pouncing on the ball.
Millie Wilding makes a run on the right wing the long diagonal pass reaching her taking it down the line no way past Jemma Mortimer as the left back closes her down the deflected ball cut back into the path of Charlotte McGrath as she bursts forwards into the area the sliding challenge coming in as she goes to shoot the ball deflected up and behind for the corner. A good delivery in from the right cutting through the box no one can get a telling touch on the ball to turn it towards goal.
Needham Market Women’s, Lois Balfour
A free-kick awarded to East Bergholt 30 yards out, Jess Clarke over the ball, takes on the shot, the sun at her back, going to be tricky for the goalkeeper, dips late, Natalie Green back on her line as the ball hits her crossbar before going out of play. Good combination play between McGrath and Wilding releasing Stacey Teager down the right channel, attempting to get inside the area is adjudged to have fouled the defender tracking back with her. Francesca Rainbird picks up the ball for Needham Market on halfway a powerful run forwards coming in field from the left looks to try and lift the ball in behind the East Bergholt defence with Wilkinson ready to go, Georgia Lockerbie wearing the captains armband for East Bergholt lifting her leg to make a vital interception.
Needham Market Women’s, Eboni-Mae Shepherd
A lively start to the game, Needham Market settling the quicker. Carter getting herself about in midfield winning the ball willing runners ahead of her. Isobel Chaplin sliding in takes the ball as Katie Bruce moves forwards. The ball forwards Wilkinson giving chase, Lockerbie across to tackle for East Bergholt. A change for Needham Market, Chaplin coming off on comes Josie Harward. Lynch’s goalkick is long finding Teager the striker heading the ball on with Bruce making a run in behind her, Needham Market captain, Megan Stock coming over to challenge the ball puts it out for a throw on the left.
Megan Stock winning the header for Needham Market.
Is a big 3G pitch plenty of space to exploit if players are drawn across, Shepherd puts the ball forwards into the middle, both Balfour and Wilkinson making runs, Katy Lambert intercepting this time for East Bergholt.
GOAL! 18 minutes gone and the East Bergholt defence is breached for the 1st time this season as Needham Market take the lead. Pressing the ball in midfield Carter with a pass forwards into Balfour positioned outside the area left of the D, controls the ball shaping to hit the shot on the volley, miscues her attempt, turns into a fantastic assist as the ball rolls on further to the left into the path of Rainbird closing in on goal she shoots, Lynch coming to close the angle gets something on the ball but not enough to prevent Rainbird scoring as she peels away in celebration 1-0.
Francesca Rainbird scorer of the opening goal for Needham Market Women
East Bergholt look to get players forwards from the restart, Needham Market break Rainbird on the ball running on left 25 out shapes to shot the ball striking her own player in it’s way through the deflection turning it up and over the bar for the goal kick. East Bergholt build well through the middle Clark with support from Bruce and Indian Griffin-Jenkins before the final pass is slide on through for Teager bursting into the area, a shooting chance denied by the offside flag.
The visitors overload the right side players drawn across as Wilding picks up possession squares along the top of the area Teager central can’t bring down Mussellwhite doing well to get the ball clear with Clark free coming in around the back. Changes for both sides, Jemma Wessels entering the action for Needham Market replacing Shepherd. A double change for East Bergholt, Isla Romer-Lee and Elena Nitsche on for Wilding and Griffin-Jenkins. Nitsche straight into action as she is played in on the right taking the ball on cuts the cross back into the box Teager hitting it first time central her effort blocked spins on for Romer-Lee behind her her shot running wide of the far post.
Quinsee getting forwards from the back for East Bergholt is tackled by Wessels. The favour returned a few moments later as Wessels tries to get in behind down the wing. McGrath doing well in the middle for East Bergholt breaking up play disrupting Needham Market’s quick build-up play. Clark finding room too for the visitors. McGrath n to put in the tackle winning the ball in the middle puts it long for Romer-Lee down the left a fierce cross fired into the area both Teager and Nitsche attacking it far post both jumping neither can get a touch.
Jess Clark with the header for East Bergholt.
East Bergholt finishing the 1st half strong pushing players on, Mussellwhite with good defensive work up against Romer-Lee as she tries to get inside her on the left. Harriet Meers coming inside to support Lambert in defence cuts out Rainbird’s forward pass. Clark in space in the middle spots Romer-Lee breaking into the left channel the ball put on into her run she shoots from outside the area the ball running wide of the post.
Half-time Needham Market Women 1-0 East Bergholt United Ladies
A competitive 1st half Needham Market starting well an early shot against the post, took the lead on 18 minutes, Francesca Rainbird the first player to score against East Bergholt this season. Pressing the ball took a little while for East Bergholt to settle but signs were building towards the end of the half they were likely to find a reply. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.
Katie Bruce holding the ball up for East Bergholt
East Bergholt to kick-off the 2nd half no changes for either side at the break. East Bergholt starting the 2nd half well pressing forwards, Romer-lee left with Bruce ahead of her picking her out she plays the ball inside to McGrath who releases Nitsche on the right side cutting inside her cross is charged down. East Bergholt keep possession in the final 3rd, McGrath laying the ball back for Clark who takes on the strike from distance the ball landing inside the area claimed by Green.
Play stretched even this early in the 2nd half with East Bergholt prepared to commit players forwards Needham Market came counter if the can get the ball into their attackers. Rainbird with the ball left cuts inside a good run plays it forwards for Balfour right side outside the box her cross back in towards the far post as she tries to pick out Carter breaking from the middle, Meers needs to and wins it for East Bergholt.
Teager holding the ball up for East Bergholt as players get up to support her McGrath receiving the ball puts on on for Nitsche bursting into the area from the right, Smith doing really well up against her in her own six yard box right of goal as she slides in to deny the shot and put the ball out for a corner kick. A fantastic ball in from the right side the penalty box congested the ball met at the far post Teager I think getting her head on the ball driven in towards goal blocked on the line by Mortimer before being scrambled away for a 2nd corner. Put in towards the top of the area this time is met well by Lockerbie striking it goalwards in through bodies it’s Mortimer to the rescue again her foot stopping the ball from crossing the line.
Needham Market pressed at the back get the ball forwards away down the right played into Rainbird making a central run free for a moment aims to drag the ball across her before shooting, Lockerbie recovering well to get back to close Rainbird down the ball spinning away off the defender for a corner. It’s East Bergholt’s time to clear the ball off the line, as the ball in is attacked near post.
East Bergholt’s time to break forwards Nitsche right into Romer-Lee central 20 yards out lines up a shot the ball driven in towards goal strikes the bar, Green may well have gotten a touch on it too. Carter getting into an advanced position for Needham Market pulls the trigger from the top of the area right side her effort running low past the far post. Good running from McGrath coming right on for Nitsche down the line a good cross into the six yard box claimed well by Green before Romer-Lee can attack it running in from the left. Teager coming deeper for the ball turns putting it on for Nitsche right side cuts into the box, Stock getting back with a good tackle stops her.
Clark over a free-kick for East Bergholt as the referee brings play back with no advantage, 30 yards out central, Clark takes on the shot her attempt over the crossbar. Nitsche a threat on the right for East Bergholt making good runs has the ball at her feet lays the cross back into the middle for the advancing McGrath striking the ball from 20 yards out it bounces out wide past the far post. Needham Market are under pressure pushed back getting the ball forwards into their attackers isn’t easy. Lambert intercepting an attempted through ball. A change for East Bergholt, Bruce coming off Wilding coming back on.
GOAL! The equalising goal has been coming East Bergholt have been turning the screw comes from a strike from distance, Clark onto the ball, sends an effort in towards goal, Green trying to get to it can’t keep in out 1-1.
Jess Clark with the equalising goal for East Bergholt
East Bergholt press straight from the restart winning the ball, drive on, Teager onto the ball a powerful run towards the box, Stock doing very well up against her. Clark with another opportunity to have a shot at goal from a set-piece a free-kick awarded 25 yards out right of centre, curls a shot in looping towards goal, Green getting across to it pushes it behind conceding the corner.
GOAL! No sooner have they equalised then East Bergholt go on to take the lead in the match the goal coming from the corner on the right an inswinging ball is defended on the line by Needham Market pushed out into the box the ball comes to Lockerbie positioned at the top of the area just inside she meets it well driving the ball back in and this time no-one cane stop it as it nestles in the back of the net 1-2.
East Bergholt on top pressing the ball in the final third Needham Market with their backs to the wall defending deep a corner given away on the left. In towards the near post Lockerbie gets on the end of it headers over. Teager strong on the ball is fouled inside the D, Needham Market slow to close her down. Teager to take it as Clark is otherwise indisposed the striker putting the ball over. The visitors looking strong now as Needham Market struggle to regroup after falling behind. McGrath on for Wilding central attempts to loft the ball in towards the far post area with Romer-Lee making a run the ball going away from her out of play.
GOAL! East Bergholt press their advantage enjoying a purple patch add a 3rd goal attacking on the left the ball lifted forwards into the box with Nitsche racing in behind through the middle six yards out the ball landing in front of her holds off a defender opening her body to side foot the ball wide of the keeper and score 1-3.
Needham Market make a change, Chaplin back on coming into the defence with Smith pushed on into the midfield. Need to get forwards Carter on the ball, Rainbird and Wessels offering support on the left the ball helped on Wilkinson flagged offside. Into the final 15 minutes. Wilding shooting from distance central the ball safely held by Green. East Bergholt make a change Nitsche coming off, Griffin-Jenkins back on. Needham Market attack getting forwards well right side the cross fired in near post Rainbird there to attack in Mussellwhite doing well closing her down.
Balfour twisting and turning with the ball through the middle finds half a yard to shoot from 25 yards out her attempt dropping wide of goal. Harward comes off for Needham Market, Shepherd back on. A throw on the right for Needham Market inside the East Bergholt half put into Wilkinson she turns and shoots from outside the area Lynch down low to gather at her near post.
The game has taken alot out of both side, East Bergholt are tiring late on have been intense in the 2nd half, Needham Market pushed back come forwards now play stretched Rainbird getting forwards to support Balfour on the left, Meers across to defend for East Bergholt.
GOAL! The ball kept by Needham Market on the left brings the home side a 2nd goal, Rainbird putting it back up the line as Mortimer gets forwards to support the fullback playing it inside Rainbird in the meantime breaking into the box is seen the pass cutting open the East Bergholt defence, Rainbird throws herself at the ball her lunge putting the ball wide across the keeper an in to the back of the net 2-3.
Not much time left but Needham Market have found an extra reserve of energy with the goal the game is open now having been pushed back for much of the 2nd half the home side press forwards risk getting hit on the counter sense they might be able to yet to get something from the game. Rainbird their main threat her ball in from the left cut out by Lockerbie. Quinsee bringing the ball out from the back for the visitors however he forward pass for Romer-Lee sees the flag raised.
Is some tired defending at the end East Bergholt have put alot into the 2nd half, Wilkinson driving on, Lambert closing her down. the visitors counter Romer-Lee left side her cross into the area deflecting off Mussellwhite falls for Teager back to goal lays it off for the onrushing Wilding connects with the ball 20 yards out the effort whistling over the bar. The last action of the game East Bergholt making it 5 out of 5 go top of the table.
Full time Needham Market Women 2-3 East Bergholt United Ladies
Is a 3 ways tie at the top now East Bergholt with the superior goal difference, Needham Market taste defeat for the first time this season whilst Brantham Athletic Ladies receive a home win to keep up their 100%. 13 teams in the league however a long way to go. An entertaining contest played with some enjoyable late October sunshine. Needham Market starting well taking the lead 1-0. East Bergholt building momentum late in the 1st half kept going 2nd half pressing the ball in the final third shooting from distance got level then very quickly took the lead, Needham market slow to respond the visitors going further in front, Needham Market getting a goal back late on but East Bergholt went on to claim the 3 points.
The defending champions looking good after 5 games, know there is still a long way to go. Needham Market showing plenty of potential will only get better.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time for this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Sometimes a contender will emerge early on in a match and it’s a case of seeing if they maintain that level of performance. There were two this afternoon that caught the eye both for East Bergholt and it was a tough decision picking one out over the other, getting forwards into space and a threat from set-pieces Jess Clark stood out getting a goal too. Just edging it though for me was central midfield partner Charlotte McGrath. Played well throughout winning the ball getting across the park, setting up others and offering support with some well timed runs through the middle today’s award goes to the East Bergholt number 10.
An enjoyable trip out to Bloomfield’s this afternoon, the bright sunshine no doubt helping a good crowd in attendance too. Is a great facility and by the looks of the development will only get better. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated.
The wet weather across the region affected the Beds & Herts Women’s football schedule the most on Sunday with half of the scheduled 10 matches falling victim to the weather. That aw just 5 games taking place with there being significant results in all three divisions.
On game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, and that saw a new side take over at the top of the table. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires the new name at the top of the league, a great start to the season following promotion last season. Were at home this Sunday playing Sherrardswood Ladies. Chemise Huitson hitting a brace for Welwyn with Patience Ndlovu scoring her 1st goal of the season securing a 3-1 victory, Welwyn’s 3rd win of the season taking them top on goal difference. Laurie Marris from the penalty spot scoring for Sherrardswood.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Hitchin Town Ladies unbeaten start came to an end on Sunday as they were defeated at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles who climb up to 4th in the Division Two table with their 2nd successive league win 3 overall with a cup game in between. Emily Jamieson with her 1st goal of the season with Tayla Murray also getting a goal to win the game 2-1 for the visitors. Emma Chaffey scoring for Hitchin Town who retain a 2 point lead at the top of Division Two.
In the other game played in Division Two, Hitchin Belles won at home to climb up into 3rd position in the table. Were taking on Welwyn Pegasus Azures. A good first half seeing Hitchin leading the game 3-1 a 4th goal added in the 2nd half securing a 4-1 win. Charlotte Peters scoring a brace, there were goals to for Amy Jack and Bonnita Woodward her 1st goal for Hitchin Belles.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Langford Ladies open up a 5 point lead at the top of the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three table with a 4th straight league win on Sunday. Were at home up against Bedwell Rangers Ladies Amber Clark scoring a hat-trick moves onto 5 goals, with Chloe Scott moving onto 6 goals so far this season hitting a brace in a 5-1 win. Chloe Jones scoring Bedwell Rangers goal.
Buntingford Town Ladies are off the bottom of the Division Three table as they won for the 1st time on Sunday in their 3rd competitve match since forming. Were at home playing Kempston Rovers Ladies also without a point and new to the league this season. 3-1 to Buntingford Town come the final whistle the winning goals scored by Jacqueline Stott, Becky Lewis and Katie Grehan. Shelby Brookes scoring for Kempston Rovers.
Cambridge City Ladies Development continue their 100% winning start to the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership leading by 3 points with a 4 straight league win. Coming on the road away to March Town United Ladies on Sunday. After contesting a goalless first 45 minutes Cambridge City broke the deadlock with Ellie Cullum scoring the goal to put the visitors 1-0 up, Cullum going on to hit the back of the net with a further 2 goals to complete a hat-trick to see the game won 3-0.
ICA Sports Ladies climb back into 2nd position in the as they ended Cambridge University Women’s winning start to the season on Sunday. Lili Donlon-Mansbridge scoring for Cambridge University at home, ICA Sports scoring from the penalty spot through Jess Farchina along with a goal credited to Kylie Armstrong seeing the Peterborough based side with the game 2-1 winning for the 3rd time this season.
In the other Premiership game played this weekend it was a meeting between the two sides promoted from the Championship South, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds clocking up their 1st win last Sunday at home to Histon Ladies Reserves. Two sides that know each other very well they had to settle for a point each with the game finishing 1-1. Katie Luddy netting the goal for Fulbourn. Katie Seagrave scoring for Histon.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies are neck and neck at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North both with a 100% winning start to the season. Ketton moving ahead of Wisbech after this Sunday’s results on goal difference as they recorded a big win away to Hungate Rovers Ladies on Sunday (apologies for listing Hungate as Hungary Riverside Ladies in the results tweet this week blame it on the new phone and it’s predictive text which I failed to notice) A double figure win for Ketton as they continued their great start to the season a 12-0 scoreline taking them top of the table.
Wisbech Town Ladies were taking part in their 2nd Wisbech derby of the season at home to Wisbech St Mary on Sunday. Amy Newell scoring the opening goal for Wisbech Town midway through the 1st half. Sophie Swindon doubling the hosts lead with Chloe Stanborough on target for a 3rd goal to see Wisbech Town leading 3-0 at half-time. Stanborough scoring her 2nd of the game to make it 4-0 to Wisbech Town in the 2nd half, Chelsea King getting on the scoresheet making it 5-0. Leonie Goodale getting a goal back for Wisbech St Mary only a consolation as Wisbech Town ran out 5-1 winners.
For the 2nd successive Sunday, Cardea Ladies were away to Pinchbeck United Ladies in the Championship North. A 5-2 win for Cardea last time out securing their 1st ever win since being formed. Rebecca Navarrete with her 1st goal of the season fro Pinchbeck putting them into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Cardea levelling the scores just before the half hour Kelly Hook with her 1st goal for Cardea, a superb strike from outside the box flying in over the keeper to make it 1-1. Captain, Laura Rudd having scored 4 goals for Cardea last time out scoring what would prove to be the winning goal on 35 minutes to see Cardea claim a 2nd successive win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South this Sunday between the bottom two both without a point going into the game Burwell Tigers Ladies at home to Park Ladies. A high scoring contest with the sides getting 10 goals between them. A brace for Vicky Murrell along with goals for Hannah Dewey and the 1st of the season for Xantha Miller seeing the hosts scoring 4, a trio of braces winning the game for Park, Francesca Plitsch, Jenna Brown and Sherrie Martin all on target for their 1st goals of the season winning the game 6-4.
Needham Market Women new to the Suffolk Women’s Division move back to the league as they continued their 100% winning start on Sunday taking full advantage of East Bergholt United Ladies not playing. 5 wins out of 5 the latest coming on the road up against Leiston St Margarets Ladies. The sides drawing 1-1 at half-time, Lucy Eagles scoring from Leiston St Margarets. Needham Market coming out the stronger in the 2nd half scoring 3 goals to win the game 4-1, their goalscorers, Milly Carter, Isabel Chaplin, Francesca Rainbird and Jemma Wessels.
Brantham Athletic Ladies have also started the season well along with Needham Market and East Bergholt have begun with 4 straight wins their 100% record continuing as they recorded their biggest win to date away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Shanice Leeks top scoring in the game for Brantham with 4 goals her 1st of the season. Kirsten Hutchings adding a further 2 to her tally now 11. Lucy Dunnett, Shannon Giles, Danielle Harvey and Lucy Elmes also getting a goal each in a 10-1 victory. Keira Hines with the consolation goal for Chantry.
Brantham Athletic Ladies, Shanice Leeks
Alresford Colne Rangers climb up to 4th place in the Suffolk Women’s Division with their 3rd win of the season on Sunday coming away from home against Coplestonians Ladies. Goalless at the break goals from Jo Harvey and Tiffany Reeves secured the 3 points for Alresford in the 2nd half.
Heavy defeats in their opening 3 matches since joining the Suffolk Women Division, 2 games against the defending Champions, East Bergholt United Ladies, University of Suffolk Women are off the mark with their 1st win of the campaign coming on Sunday at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves who themselves were also without a point at the start of the season. A narrow lead for Suffolk University at half-time a goal to the good. Haverhill Rovers scoring twice in the 2nd half with Abbi Griffin and Claire Insole on target with a goal each. University of Suffolk adding further goals themselves in the 2nd half going on to celebrate a 4-2 win taking them off the foot of the table.
Suffolk Women’s League Cup
Meeting just last Sunday in the league, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies were hosting Woodbridge Town Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday, this time in the 1st Round of the League Cup. A 4-0 away win for Woodbridge then a much closer scoreline this time around. Drawing 0-0 at half-time it was Brightlingsea who opened the scoring 2nd half before Woodbridge fought back to equalise then take the lead themselves to win the game 2-1 to progress, Samantha Butcher and Sophie Crane scoring the goals.
Frontiers Ladies keep up their 100% winning start to the season with a 5 straight victories away to Hullbridge Sports Ladies to remain 3 points clear at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Hullbridge short on numbers, Frontiers with a strong squad new signing Dempsey Favell scoring 4 goals in the game , now has 9 for her new club from 5 appearances. Kay Foy scoring twice with Hayley King and Emma Best both scoring their 1st goals of the season in an 8-0 win.
Leigh Ramblers Ladies climb up to 2nd place in the Premier Division with their 4th league victory of the season. Were on the road playing 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies. Leigh Ramblers leading the game 2-0 at half-time, goals from Lisa Overall and a brace from Georgia James seeing Chelmsford City score 3 as they fought back in the 2nd half before Leigh Ramblers went on to win the game 6-3. Kate Newton scoring a hat-trick for Leigh Ramblers, Paige White also on target with two goals with Amber Denton also on the scoresheet.
Harlow Town Ladies Development drop to 3rd but remain unbeaten in the Premier Division after 5 games played earning a point away from home on Sunday against Silver End United Ladies. 0-0 at half-time, Katie Fuller with her 1st goals for Silver End scoring twice for the hosts. Ciara Purdue and Lucy Edmeades hitting the goals into the back of the net for Harlow Town Ladies Development, the point enough to lift Silver End United up into 6th place.
With just their 2nd league win of the season Corringham Cosmos are in 5th spot in the Premier Division bouncing back from an uncharacteristic run of 3 straight losses to win at home against Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Goalless at half-time Corringham getting the goals 2nd half, Rebecca Gallagher on the hour with Elysia King on target 10 minutes later to win the match 2-0.
Essex Women’s Division One
Making it 5 wins out of 5 to start the season Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies move 3 points clear at the top of Essex Women’s Division One. In a great run of form were at home on Sunday taking on FC Clacton Ladies whilst making an unbeaten start themselves hadn’t played since the 16th September. Coming up against a Dagenham & Redbridge side that has scored 23 goals in their previous 4 matches. Have 30 now as the home side ran out 7-0 winners to keep up their 100% winning start, Amy Jacobs scoring a hat-trick has 19 of Dagenham & Redbridge’s goals alone. Jodie Barden also scoring 3 times in the game with Grace Tebb-Reading also getting a goal.
Runwell Sports Ladies climb up into 3rd position in the Division One table with a convincing home win against Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday their 4th of the season.
Hutton Ladies Reserves also on the move up the Division One table move into 4th spot their 3rd win of the season coming at home against Belhus Ladies on Sunday. Giulia Francesconi scoring twice for Hutton their were goals to for, Rachel Agombar, Leanne Cox, Maisie Jayne Threadgold-Smith, Chloe Jones and Baylie Kingsnorth in an 8-1 victory. Hayley Knott scoring the goal for Belhus.
A points deduction means Chigwell Ladies are 3 points light in the Division One table. Got another 3 points on the road on Sunday on the road were playing Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. A brace from Victoria Parker along with a goal for Anna Hangyal securing a 3-1 result for Chigwell. Tish Cleary scoring the goal for Chelmsford.
This Sunday across Norfolk it was the beginning of the Ladies League Cup competition. 4 ties taking place in the 1st Round.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies drawn away to Long Stratton Ladies the Division One side yet to pick up a win at the beginning of the season following promotion, a tough first round opponent in Long Stratton dropping down to Division Two have in contrast won 3 from 3 in the league haven’t played though since the 23rd September. Sprowston Athletic celebrating their 1st win of the season come the final whistle, goals from Melissa Belsey and Rachel Bussey clinching a 2-0 win to see them into the 2nd Round.
Tavern Ladies are another Division Two side showing great form at the start of the season, scoring goals were drawn at home to fellow Division Two side Bulldogs Ladies who in contrast have struggled for results at the beginning of the season. Tavern proving too strong on the day, Atlanta Griffith scoring 4 goals in the match with Katie Hart-Copsey adding a brace. Leysha Bangura also scoring in a 7-1 win. Ffion Lewis scoring the goal for Bulldogs Ladies.
4 goals for Tavern Ladies, Atlanta Griffith
Freethorpe Ladies progress in the Norfolk Ladies League Cup as they won their 1st Round match at home to Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies on Sunday. A single goal enough to clinch the victory coming in the 1st half, Amy Barber with her 1st goal of the season to send Freethorpe through.
Taverham United Women cause the upset of the 1st Round by knocking out higher league opposition. Unbeaten in 2nd place in Division Two were at home in the Ladies League Cup playing Beccles Town Ladies. A brace from top scorer, Rebecca Sutton along with a goal for Abbie Walker seeing Taverham leading 3-0 at half-time. Beccles getting 1 goal back in the 2nd half Taverham winning 3-1 to advance.
