A busy Sunday off league action across the Beds & Herts Women’s Leagues 3 Division’s. A extra-time winner away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup last Sunday saw Division One leaders, Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires unbeaten run of 6 games come to an end. Were back in league action this Sunday away to Sharnbrook WFC. Welwyn suffering just their 2nd league loss of the season as they were narrowly beaten 1-0. Other results going Sharnbrook’s way they climb to 4th in the Division One table are just 3 points behind Welwyn now with a game in hand.
Moving into 2nd position in the Division One table Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were at home to defending Champions, St Albans Ladies this Sunday, a good result as they ended St Albans unbeaten league record stretching back to February 2017. 4 straight wins for Hemel Hempstead in the league ran out 5-1 winners with 5 different players on the score sheet, Bianca Hedgecock, Louise McCay, Lizzie Richardson, Charlene Turturici-Clark and top scorer Natasha McConville. Moves them to within a point of leaders Welwyn.
Houghton Athletic Ladies finally brought to an end a run of bad results that saw them suffer 4 losses after a promising 3 game winning streak at the beginning of the season. Tasted victory again at home on Sunday against Garston Ladies 1st team. Ciara Craig firing a brace into the back of the net with Emily Wilson moving onto 10 for the season also scoring in a 3-0 win that as with Hemel Hempstead has them on 12 points.
A big win in Division One too on Sunday in Division One for Northwood Ladies away to Garston Ladies 2nd XI. Up to 5th in the table now, Emma Steele doubling her goals tally for the season as she found the goal for 4. Scarlett Keightley and Leanne Jones both getting a goal each whilst both Samantha May and Holly Gilder were celebrating their first goals of the season in a comfortable 8-0 win.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
A 3rd successive win in the league sees Hitchin Town Ladies open up a 4 point lead at the top of Division Two this Sunday. An away trip to play Bedford Ladies Development, Hannah Ridley scoring for the hosts in the 10th minute. Hitchin Town getting 2 up the other end to win the game Lucy Huffer with her first goal of the season and captain Emma Chaffey on target with her 6th winning the 3 points.
A run of 5 straight league wins saw Letchworth Garden City Eagles climb to 2nd spot in Division Two taking them to within a point of Hitchin Town at the top. That run was brought to an end on Sunday after they were beaten at home by Hitchin Belles. Amy Jack moving onto 9 goals for the season scoring twice for Hitchin. Charlotte Peters one behind on 8 also getting a goal with Keira How sending the ball home too in a 4-1 win that leaves Hitchin Belles on 10 points in 5th after 5 games played.
Big wins in the league too on Sunday in Division Two for the 3rd and 4th placed sides. 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies Development away to Watton Ladies. Keira Gabriel claiming a hat-trick. Hannah Tofts getting a brace her first 2 goals of the campaign. So to Nicole Cooper with her first goal, Olivia Sole and Abby Laughlin also on target in an 8-1 win.
8 goals to for Evergreen Ladies 4th in Division Two as they enjoyed a good home win against Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. There were first goals of the season for, Lisa Nolan and Hollie Holden whilst Leane Pickett scored a brace to open her account. Rebecca Freeman also scoring twice, Ellie Smith and Natalie Maher with Evergreen’s other goals.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
AFC Dunstable Ladies great form at the start of the season continues as the newcomers to Division Three beat the league leaders Langford Ladies at home this Sunday, 5 league wins and a draw now as Dunstable close the gap on Langford to 2 points. Goals from Courtney McNamara plus a 16th of the season for Bianca Vassell see Langford lose for the 2nd time this season ending there 6 game winning run after losing on the opening day… against Dunstable.
A draw last time out in the league saw AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies drop points for the first time since joining Division Three. Back to winning ways this Sunday at home as they took on Buntingford Town Ladies. Bex Cray scoring a brace moves into double figures for the season. Zara Garrard and Taylor Kingston also getting a goal a piece in a 4-0 victory for the 3rd placed side.
A hat-trick for Giselle Randell helped to secure the 3 points for 4th placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses on Sunday as they hosted Stotfold Juniors Ladies in Division Three, Zoe Griffiths also getting a goal as they ran out 4-2 winners, a yet to keep a clean sheet this season with Chloe Everton and Becky Lund scoring for Stotfold.
A good start to the season for Biggleswade United Ladies they were the early pacesetters winning their opening two matches since then they have lost 3 in a row to drop down the table. One of those wins at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies were taking them on again this Sunday away from home, a good result scoring 6 without reply seeing Biggleswade return to winning ways moving back up to 5th in the table.
Two games in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday feature the top 3 sides. Two young sides going head to head, with Leigh Ramblers Ladies topping the table hosting 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies Development the sole unbeaten side in the league. An tight contest it was Leigh Ramblers who emerged with the win and 3 points at the final whistle edging out Harlow 3 goals to 2 and see the visitors lose their unbeaten record after 9 games played. A brace for Hannah Smith for Harlow. Amy Jacobs also claiming a brace to for Leigh Ramblers, Chloe Gilligan the other goal scorer for Leigh Ramblers her first goal of the season.
It was Leigh Ramblers who brought an end to Frontiers Ladies 100% winning start two weeks ago. Were back in action this Sunday at home taking on Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies, and bounced back with a 3-1 victory. Kay Foy finding the back of the net for two goals, with Dempsey Favell also on the scoresheet with her 12th of the season. Jo Smeaton more often than not amongst the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers scoring on Sunday to move onto 13 for the season.
Essex Women’s County Cup
One tie left to be played in the Essex Women’s County Cup 3rd Round this Sunday the winners knowing they face a tough away trip to FAWNL South East Division One side, Billericay Town Ladies. Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies were hosting Premier Division side Hullbridge Sports Ladies. Hullbridge struggling for numbers at the start of the season up against a side full of goals at the moment and Rayleigh continued that good form in the County Cup. Captain Isabelle Wallings taking her tally for the season to an incredible 30 goals as she scored a double hat-trick in the match. Holly Gash with a hat-trick, Eleasha Reeves getting a brace and a goal for Megan Harley all have double figures for the season now. Millie Arnold, Amy Cox-Smith and Jo Cooper also on the scoresheet with a goal each in a 15-1 win. Megan Marney scoring the goal for 10 player Hullbridge.
Essex Women’s Trophy
One tie played in the 1st Round of the Essex Women’s Trophy this Sunday with Premier Division sides, Southend United Ladies & Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves meeting in the competition. Southend at home winning comfortably to progress, Ria Toovey and Lauren Johnson both scoring two goals each. There were goals to for Emily Pert, Melissa Burton, Ellie Wood and Lily Halliday in an 8-0 result.
Essex Women’s Division One
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves took advantage of Division One leaders, Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies not being in action last Sunday to win themselves and go top of the table on goal difference. With Dagenham & Redbridge not playing again this Sunday a win for Billericay would see them go 3 points clear at the top. A trip to bottom side Belhus Ladies, 3 players all scored a hat-trick as Billericay recorded a double figure win. Nicola Carty, Sophie Vale and top scorers Lisa Robins on 15 now all with 3 goals each, Darcie Salmons the other goalscorer. Danni Jennings with the goal for Belhus.
Hutton Ladies Reserves are up from 5th to 3rd spot in the Division One table with a good result away to FC Clacton Ladies on Sunday. A narrow lead for the visitors at half-time Hutton 2-1 up, Laura Allen scoring a hat-trick making her first start of the season with Demi Gimbert on the scoresheet for the 1st time this season as Hutton ran out 4-1 winners in the 2nd half.
Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves recorded just their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday as they took on Island Ladies at home in the league. Charlotte Stelmaszyk scoring twice for Chelmsford her first goals of the season. Also celebrating their first goals of the season were Alex Greenshields, Freya Barnard and Daniella Cross. Tish Cleary also getting a goal as Chelmsford won the game 6-1. Sarah McDonnell scoring the goal for Island.
An away win too for Chigwell Ladies on Sunday in Division One as they travelled to play Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. Just Chigwell’s 3rd win of the season. Both Jessica MacNab and Caitlin Hynes were on target with a goal each, Marie Gamage with her first goals of the season, celebrating a hat-trick as Chigwell won the game 5-1 to earn the 3 points. Elisha Reade scoring the goal for Leigh Ramblers.
A full league programme in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday although for some it’s a weekend to forget. League leaders East Bergholt United Ladies have made a strong start to the new season winning all 7 league games to date and scoring plenty of goals along the way, have a large squad full of goalscorers and they took their opponents to the sword on Sunday. At bottom side Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves new to the league were in good spirits despite not picking up a point yet, a tough test against the leaders made the more difficult by a shortage of players, just the 9, East Bergholt took full advantage the final score an eye watering 35-0. Annie Northwood getting 10 of those goals herself. Millie Wilding with a double hat-trick. Jessica Clark with 4 accounting for 20 goals. hat-tricks for both Charlotte McGrath and Elena Nitsche. Two goals each for Charlotte Warren and Isla Romer-Lee with Deben Faiers, Georgia Lockerbie and Helen Bruce also listed as goalscorers. 8 from 8 now for East Bergholt with a +94 goal difference.
A very harsh scoreline, the Suffolk Women’s Division much expanded this season with a host of new sides could have gone with 2 Divisions but I think the one larger Division was the best way, a test for the new sides and no doubt some harsh scores as the established teams dominate but it is a fledgling league news time to grow.
Keeping neck and neck with East Bergholt at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division were neighbours, Brantham Athletic Ladies 7 wins from 7 at the start of the season this Sunday saw their 100% record end away from home against Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Brantham short on numbers for the 1st time this season only the 10 available. Nevertheless it was a competitive game that saw the sides share 8 goals between them. Michelle Stanborough scoring twice for Leiston St Margarets moves into double figures for the season with 10 goals. Lucy Eagle with a goal too has 8 to her name whilst Sarah Cooper scored for the 1st time this season. Brantham matching that reply at the other end the 4-4 seeing points dropped for the first time.
Of all the newcomers to the Suffolk Women’s Division, Needham Market Women have enjoyed the best start up in 3rd position with just the one loss that at home to East Bergholt. At home this Sunday were taking on another new side, Woodbridge Town Ladies. Amber Sparkes making her 1st start for Needham Market celebrated scoring 2 goals. Nicola Henderson also finding the back of the net with Needham Market securing a 3-1 win to remain in contention at the top of the table. Jenna Liverpool scoring for Woodbridge.
Walsham Le Willows Ladies too in 4th position won their 6th game of the season on Sunday to keep themselves in touch with the leading trio a 5 point gap to the leaders. Were away from home at the weekend taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. The visitors getting into a 3-0 lead before Maddie Hubbard pulled a goal back for Brightlingsea. Walsham Le Willows adding 1 more before half-time to lead 4-1 went on to double that tally in the 2nd half to win the game 8-1. Laura Brame scoring a hat-trick, Norma Locker grabbing a brace, with a goal each for Mia Banbury, Kirsty Pollard & Lisa Pratt.
Walsham Le Willows, Laura Brame
A good result at home for Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday sees them win for the 4th time this season to consolidate their position in mid-table were hosting Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Both Felicity Cooper and Abigail Eley scoring their first goals for Coplestonians, with Sophie Maul and Lottie Adams also both on target with a goal to seal a 4-0 home win.
7 points from their last 4 league matches and a 2nd successive win sees new side Brettvale Ladies move up to 9th in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were on the road on Sunday taking on fellow newcomers University of Suffolk Women. Sheryl Nokes playing her first game for Brettvale getting a hat-trick on her debut to secure a 3-0 win for the visitors.
A handful of matches played in Cambridgeshire this Sunday with the League Cup group stages continuing and the one remaining 1st Round tie from the Division One Cup competition.
Two games took place in Group A this Sunday, Premiership leaders, ICA Sports Ladies topping thier League Cup group to with 3 wins from 3. The latest coming away from home as they travelled to play Championship North side, Pinchbeck United Ladies. Goals for Donna Nicholls, Zoe Leddy, Jessica Farchina and Megan Purnell securing a 4-1 victory. Rebecca Navarrette scoring the goal for Pinchbeck.
Also in Group A, Championship North side, Cardea Ladies were hosting Premiership side Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Netherton proving too strong an opponent as they ran out 8-1 winners to record their 2nd win in the Group to move 2nd. Poppy Sparrow with her first goals for Netherton’s senior team getting a hat-trick. Lissy Crutchfield also getting her 1st goal for Netherton. Clare Gallagher scoring a brace with Emily Johnson and Holly Barber also on target with a goal apiece.
In Group D of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup, Fulbourn Bluebirds join Haverhill Rovers Ladies and Cambridge University Women on 6 points at the top of the table with their 2nd win in the competition on Sunday. The Premiership side were at home taking on Championship South side, Burwell Tigers Ladies. Krissie Taylor scoring a hat-tick for Fulbourn, Sharon Pinner was on target for two goals with a goal each for Stacey Kemp and Marie Stubbings in a 7-0 win.
Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, Krissie Taylor
In Group B, Premiership side, March Town United Ladies are 6 points clear at the top of the mini-league table with a game left to play have 4 wins from 4 now the latest coming this Sunday away in the local derby with Championship South side, Park Ladies. A close game however March leading 2-1 at half-time edging the final result 3-2 to pick up the 3 points. Emma Frost scoring twice for March along with a goal for Naomi McGarvie. Sherrie Martin plus and OG the scorers for Park.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Cup
In the one remaining 1st Round tie in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, it was a meeting between the top two in the Championship South, St Ives Town Development at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies, level on points in the league, their encounter in the Division One Cup a close one to call. In the end the 90 minutes couldn’t separate the sides with the pair drawing 2-2 to send the tie into extra-time, St Ives getting the all important goal in the extra period of play to see them through to the quarter finals with a 3-2 win. Emilee Steele scoring twice for St Ives with Penelope Ford also on target with a goal. Amy Evans and Julie Brown scoring for Haverhill.
That sees the quarter final draw for the Division One Cup settled and 7 sides will contest for a place in the last 4 of the competition, Burwell Tigers Ladies the side receiving a bye the remaining ties are as follows:-
League Cup weekend in Norfolk with 5 of the 8 ties from the 2nd Round of the competition taking place this Sunday afternoon. The game between Bungay Town Ladies & Hockering Ladies now listed as postponed.
Gorleston Ladies are through to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a 3-0 2nd Round win at home to fellow Division One side, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves.
The upset in the competition came at Taverham, where the Division Two high flyers unbeaten in the league beat Division One opposition to reach the last 8. Taverham United Women taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies on Sunday the hosts holding a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time it proved to be decisive as both sides went on to score two each in the 2nd period, Taverham going through 3-2 winners. Abbie Walker, Rebecca Sutton and Tiegan Robinson with the goals. Katie Fray and Codie Henderson scoring for Sprowston Athletic.
3 more Division Two sides reaching the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup this Sunday, 5th placed Tavern Ladies were at home hosting, 3rd placed Bure Valley Wildcats. It was Tavern who enjoyed the better day scoring two goals in each half to run out 4-0 winners to progress, 4 different players with the goals with Katie Hart-Copsey, Lucy Lincoln, Atlanta Griffith and Nicole Costin scoring on her 1st start for the club.
Division Two leaders, Fakenham Town Ladies were short on numbers for this weekends League Cup tie with just the 10 available as they travelled to Horsford Women on Sunday’s 2nd Round clash. Both sides with 10 on the pitch though as Horsford were reduced to 10 themselves with Kim Owen shown a red card early in the game. Sian Sands scoring from the penalty spot plus an own goal seeing Fakenham book a spot in the quarter finals.
A goal in each half for Keira Squires securing a place too in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup for Freethorpe Ladies who were on the road in the 2nd Round taking on Gorleston Ranger Ladies on Sunday.
Two 2nd Round ties yet to be decided, this Sunday sees Thorpe United Ladies leading Division One away to Division Two side Thetford Ladies, whilst Division One sides Aylsham Ladies & Sprowston Ladies don’t meet until the New Year.
Another piece of news to bring you from Norfolk too in this weeks Round-Up in the Women’s County Cup Final as huge boost for the game in the county this season’s final will be played at Carrow Road the home of Norwich City FC. Fantastic for the sport and a huge incentive for the quarter finalists. I’m looking forwards to it already.
With league leaders, Cambridge City Ladies distracted by cup competition for the 3 Sunday run the chasing pack has caught up and a new side take over at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division, with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies recording a 7th straight league win to climb to the top of the table. At home this Sunday Northern Star were hosting bottom side Haringey Borough Women at the Branch Bros Stadium. A hat-trick from Vicky Gallagher winning the 3 points for the hosts as Northern Star won the game 3-1 to see them top the table.
Another side going into the weekend with the potential to lead the ERWFL Premier Division table were Royston Town Ladies as they took their unbeaten record up to Norfolk to play Acle United Women. A 3-1 win at home for Royston in the reverse fixture. A competitive 1st half seeing the sides holding each other to a 0-0 draw. A different story 2nd half as Acle went on to complete a comprehensive win. Olivia Mungham-Gray opening the scoring for Acle in the 53rd minute. The lead soon doubled with Grace Birchall firing home. Birchall getting her 2nd of the game scoring from the penalty spot, captain Megan Todd on target with 6 minutes left to see Acle win the game 4-0 climb up to 4th spot as Royston losing for the 1st time this season drop to 5th, just 4 points between the top 5 now.
Above Royston and Acle in 3rd place in the Premier Division are, Brentwood Town Ladies, returning to winning ways last weekend travelled to Bedfordshire this Sunday to take on AFC Dunstable Ladies. Top scorer Georgia Holdaway continuing her great form in front of goal scoring 4 more to take her tally to 17 for the season. Leah Cowan also on target with her 8th of the season along with a 4th goal of the season from Marie Barker seeing the Essex side take the 3 points home with a 6-2 victory. Victoria Allen and Chelsea Forde scoring for Dunstable.
AFC Sudbury Ladies were short on numbers as they played host to Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday in the Premier Division. The Norfolk side coring plenty of goals have several attacking options and ran out comfortable winners to move back into the top half of the table. Laura Nicholls top scorer for Wymondham adding another 5 goals to her name against Sudbury. Mollie O’Callaghan scoring a hat-trick for the 2nd successive game too. There was a brace a piece for Alice Collins and Hannah Waters with Kayleigh Holloway scoring in a 13-0 win.
Colney Heath Ladies getting a bit of form behind them now after riding out a difficult spell after making a positive start to the season, unbeaten in 3 games now were hosting Harlow Town Ladies this Sunday having lost 4-1 to them back in September. A point a piece this time around. Poppy Binding firing Harlow into the lead, Colney Heath coming back to level just before half-time Sophie Gardiner scoring from a free-kick. 1-1 it remained both sides with chances to win it taking home a point each.
ERWFL Division One
The ERWFL is a great league to watch, entertainment guaranteed, a good level of football, good for player development, the title race in Division One as exciting as that in the Premier Division. It was here that Women’s Football East ventured on Sunday to watch a top of the table clash in Essex with Bowers & Pitsea Ladies the new side in 2nd spot in the table hosting league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves. A 5 point gap between the sides, Bowers & Pitsea got off to a positive start it was Stevenage though who would take the early lead, Emily Schofield breaking in behind to send the ball under the keeper and score. Bowers & Pitsea kept coming on and got back on level terms Danielle Styles played in on the ball inside the box lashing the ball home to make it 1-1. Stevenage came back again against the run of play to score two quick goals to go 3-1 up. Schofield with both shooting from the angle having taken the original corner, than fouled in the box stepping up to complete her hat-trick from the penalty spot.
Danielle Styles with 4 goals this Sunday for Bowers & Pitsea
Bowers & Pitsea kept up their positive approach attacking well and with the first half moving into the latter stages pulled the scores level at 3-3 with two quick goals of their own both from corners, Georgia Fraser sneaking in unmarked to send the ball through a crowded six yard box and in, Taylor Parrish rising to head the ball in moments later. A complete turn around late on the half as Bowers & Pitsea took the lead Styles stealing the ball off the Stevenage defence and running in on goal to send the ball past the keeper at in.
Stevenage’s Emily Schofield on target for 5 goals
4-3 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea started the 2nd half as well as they finished the first extending the lead early on, Sophie Dowman setting up Styles to slot the ball home and complete her hat-trick. Styles going on to get a 4th trying her luck from distance making it 6-3. A comfortable lead going into the final 10 minutes, it turned out to be a nervy climax in the end, Schofield a threat all game running in behind one on one with the keeper to make it 6-4, it was 6-5 moments later, Schofield with her 5th of the game again beating the keeper to score. Bowers & Pitsea holding their nerve to win the game 6-5 close the gap to Stevenage to 2 points.
St Ives Town Ladies 3rd in Division One are the only unbeaten side in the league, a 2 points back on Bowers & Pitsea Ladies and 4 off leaders Stevenage with 2 games in hand on both. At home on Sunday were taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies. Tierney Coulson continuing her good form in front of goal at the start of the season hitting another 4 goals into the back of the net to take her onto 14 goals now for the season, top scoring for St Ives. Emily Smith also on target for a brace with Georgia Stancombe also scoring her 8th of the season in a 7-0 victory.
Joining St Ives Town on 17 points in 4th spot are Essex side Hutton Ladies, were taking on Newmarket Town Ladies at home on Sunday. It was just Newmarket’s 3rd away game of the season. A competitve game Hutton in the end running out convincing winners with some quality strikes, if I said Vicky Kinsman didn’t score you wouldn’t believe me… and you’re right was on target for another brace this Sunday taking her onto 26 for the season (and it isn’t Christmas yet). Sally Appleton also netting two goals in the game, there was a 1st goal for Hutton for Hayley Piggott to since joining from Billericay. Hutton winning 5-1, Brooke Wickens scoring for Newmarket.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies make the trip up to Norfolk on Sunday to play King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The Hertfordshire side capitalising on a slow start from the home side to race into a 3-0 lead inside the opening 19 minutes. Natasha Crick on 8 minutes making it 1-0 Kristina O’Connell scoring Hoddesdon’s 2nd a minute later. Crick making it 3-0 with her 2nd of the game in the 19th minute. King’s Lynn rallied and late in the first half pulled it back to 3-1 with a goal from Olivia Baker. The 2nd half a much better performance from King’s Lynn according to my undercover reporter at the game the hosts dominated but were unable on convert there chances. Hoddesdon had two good chances to extend their lead as well but in the finish the opening 19 minutes proved the difference Hoddesdon winning 5-1 climb up to 5th place in the Division One table.
Lastly in ERWFL Division One, Hatfield Peveral Ladies were hosting Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies on Sunday. The visitors having the better of the first half getting into a 2-0 lead at half-time. Hatfield Peverel fighting back in the 2nd half creating chances couldn’t find a reply as Histon took home the 3 points to move up a place to 8th.
Coventry United Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with a convincing win at home extending their unbeaten run to 13 games. Coventry were hosting Plymouth Argyle Ladies on the final Sunday of November. Got off to the perfect start racing into a 3-0 lead inside the opening 15 minutes. Shannon O’Brien giving Coventry the lead in the 5th minute, quickly followed by a goal from Natalie Haigh lobbing the keeper to make it 2-0. Amber Hughes also finding the back of the net in the 11th minute. Another goal added late in the first half with defender Rosie McDonnell heading in. McDonnell adding her 2nd just before the whistle to see Coventry leading 5-0 at the break.
Plymouth came out fighting 2nd half pulling a goal back through Helen Bleazard but that was as good as it got for the visitors as Coventry continued to push forwards, Amy Wathan heading in a Lois Jefferies cross on the hour to make it 6-1. McDonnell going on to complete a hat-trick as the game entered the last quarter hour. Jefferies getting in on the goal action to make it 8-1 in the 80th minute. A penalty awarded in stoppage time scored by Chemise Austin to wrap up a 9-1 victory.
Loughborough Foxes Women in 4th position on the Southern Premier Division were looking to make it 5 straight wins in the league as they travelled down to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies, a goal from Chloe Young just past the half hour seeing the visitors holding a narrow lead at half-time. Sammy Brooker getting Gillingham back on level terms 7 minutes after the restart. Loughborough responding straight away to get the ball forwards and retake the lead a minute later, Charlotte Broad from close range making it 2-1. Closing in on the final 10 minutes of the match and Gillingham equalised for the 2nd time in the match Breon Grant with a terrific strike from outside the box to make it 2-2, that the final score the points shared.
Portsmouth FC Women were on their travels this Sunday into Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies in the league. Few chances in the opening 20 minutes it was Cardiff who were to take the lead just past the half hour, Nia Rees letting fly from distance finding the top corner. 1-0 at half-time, Portsmouth started well 2nd half, Cardiff doubling their lead against the run of play Jasmine Simpson shooting from the edge of the area to make it 2-0. Into the final 10 minutes and Portsmouth pulled it back to 2-1 Danielle Rowe scoring her first league goal for the club it wasn’t enough however as Cardiff held on to the 2-1 lead to claim the 3 points.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies recorded a 4th win in the Southern Premier Division to consolidate their 8th position in the league following promotion. Were in Essex at the weekend taking on C&K Basildon Ladies. Charley Clarke putting the visitors into the lead in the 32nd minute. C&K Basildon levelling the scores just before half-time Holly Turner with a wonder strike making it 1-1. Milton Keynes Dons getting back into the lead in the 2nd half Clarke with her 2nd of the game proving to be the difference as the visitors ran out 2-1 winners.
FAWNL South East Division One
A ninth straight win following promotion to the FAWNL South East Division One sees Crawley Wasps Ladies open up an 8 point lead at the top of the table. At home on Sunday their opponents were Denham United Ladies. Crawley getting off to a good start Kemina Webber making it 1-0 in the 6th minute. Sian Heather doubling the lead in the 20th minute. A brace from Emma Plewa shortly after seeing the hosts take a healthy lead. 4-0 up at half-time a further flurry of goals with 20 minutes left saw them extend their lead, 3 goals in 3 minutes, Rachel Palmer making it 5-0, Webber then netting her 2nd of the game a goal from Megan Stow making it 7-0. Heather adding her 2nd of the game with 7 minutes left Jenny Dury scoring her first goal of the season in the final 5 minutes to wrap up a 9-0 win.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies move up into 3rd in South East Division One winning away to previous 3rd placed side Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday. Hannah Baptiste with her first goal of the season putting Wimbledon into the lead in the 20th minute. A narrow lead at the break, Katie Stanley introduced to the action 2nd half scoring in the 56th minute to put Wimbledon 2-0 up, Jenny Nagle making things more comfortable adding a 3rd goal on the hour securing a 3-0 win for Wimbledon that sees them move to within a point of 2nd place Billericay Town Ladies.
Also joining AFC Wimbledon on 18 points after the weekends results are Leyton Orient WFC. A trip up to Norfolk for the London club on Sunday taking on Norwich City Ladies. Goalless at the half-time interval that was how the game remained with the final 15 minutes approaching, Sophie Le Marchand finding the back of the net for the 5th time this season winning the game 1-0 for the visitors.
Leyton Orient WFC’s, Sophie Le Marchand
A single goal late in the 2nd half also the difference in the final match to bring you from South East Division One this Sunday with Ipswich Town Women travelling to Hertfordshire to play Stevenage Ladies. A close game a physical contest could have gone either way, Kerry Stimson captaining Ipswich fed in down the line cutting inside and shooting scoring for first goal for the club and the winning goal keeping them firmly in touch with the sides above in 6th spot.
A return to league action on Women’s Football East with a game from the top of ERWFL Division One, travelling down to Essex to watch 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies take on league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies a new name in the league this season but an established side having joined forces with a new club make the name change after previously been known as Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies
A 5 point league for Stevenage Ladies Reserves who won the ERWFL Division One South title last season. Ineligible to take promotion to the Premier Division as a reserves side ERWFL Division One the highest level they can reach, have started this season strongly too in what is a single Division One league this season starting with 13 sides but now sadly down to 12 following the withdrawal of Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. 4 straight league wins to start the season for Stevenage before suffering a 5-0 away defeat to newly promoted Newmarket Town Ladies. That their only loss in the league to date however a 100% record since sees them in a strong position at the top of the table. Daniela Martucci leading the goal scoring charts with 11 goals.
Is an ever changing picture below Stevenage in the race to catch them at the top of the table a cluster of sides separated by just 4 points with from Bowers & Pitsea in 2nd down to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies in 7th and 8th & 9th placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies & Histon Ladies both have games in hand get a run going and both could yet threaten. 3 of the newly promoted sides starting well all amongst those tussling in the top half, St Ives Town Ladies, Newmarket Town Ladies and Essex side Lawford Ladies. Hutton Ladies with Vicky Kinsman leading the attack have started well too.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies unbeaten in their last 3 league games collecting 7 points get out in front of that pack this their 3rd game in a week having played last Sunday and then again on Thursday night taking on Charlton Athletic in the quarter finals of the Bostik Cup going down to a 7-1 defeat. Back to the league this time Sunday meeting Stevenage for the 2nd time this season a narrow 3-2 loss in the reverse fixture. Proving to be a league were anyone can beat anyone on their day.
The Len Salmon Stadium the venue for today’s game a few changes since the last time I visited a brand new pitch, a state of the art 4G playing surface, Bowers & Pitsea always having a wide pitch the new pitch installed in September a good size railing all around two small seated and covered stands, a new dugouts, the first part of a planned redevelopment of the stadium that will see a new clubhouse, function room and changing facilities built. Very much a community club the ladies side now a part of that community. Final weekend in November a chilly and overcast afternoon, don’t need the hat on yet but it won’t be long.
Stevenage warming up on the new playing surface at The Len Salmon Stadium
Bowers & Pitsea starting XI – Charlotte Stephens (C), Courtney Fraser, Natalie Strange, Jennifer Lyttle, Taylor Parrish, Taylor Adcock, Sabrina Campbell, Georgia Fraser, Danielle Styles, Emma Mackie & Sophie Dowman. Subs – Alesi Harris, Rebecca Cochoran, Eloise Ives, Ebony Moore & Louise Daly.
It’s Bowers & Pitsea to get the first half under way wearing red shirts with white and red vertical stripes down the front, red shorts and red and white hooped socks. Stevenage in an all blue kit with white trim. The home side moving the ball out to the right looking for Danielle Styles, Amelia Keown stepping in the make the challenge for Stevenage at left back. Stevenage counter attack Steffany Cowell getting hold of the ball in central midfield driving forwards out to Hannah Marshall on her right she lifts the ball over the top with Emily Schofield running through toward the box shoots early her effort lacking any pace as it runs safely through to Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeper and captain, Charlotte Stephens.
Georgia Fraser attacking left side for Bowers & Pitsea looks to make ground is stopped by right back Hayley Wood-Thompson, Fraser getting back to the ball wins her side the first corner of the game, swung in near side lands on the roof of the net. Bowers & Pitsea are pushing players forwards defending a high line the diagonal ball left to right almost has Styles in behind on the right, Keown getting a vital header to clear the ball.
GOAL! A positive start from Bowers & Pitsea it’s the visitors who hit them on the counter and open the scoring inside the first 5 minutes attacking down the right side the cross squared in low central is picked up by Schofield taking the ball on across the top of the area Stephens comes to close her down keeps herself big Schofield sending the shot through her legs to give Stevenage the lead 0-1.
Bowers & Pitsea push forwards from the restart Sabrina Campbell taking the ball on into the left channel on for Sophie Dowman ahead of her she slides the pass out to Georgia Fraser on the left wing she sends the cross in towards the near post, Amy Notschild captaining Stevenage getting back in defence to get her head on the ball clears. A few early refereeing decisions upsetting the Stevenage players. Schofield fed the ball through the middle has Rebecca Brooker looking to get away on the right, wins a throw in, the ball played up the line before a high cross is fired into the area, Jennifer Lyttle winning the header for Bowers & Pitsea.
Bowers & Pitsea’s, Jennifer Lyttle
GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea get themselves back on level terms attacking Campbell spots Styles run wide right sends the pass out to her, Keown gets back on her to put the ball out for a throw, deep, Bowers & Pitsea work the ball well from the throw-in the ball put back central comes straight back to Styles breaking into the box takes the ball on close to goal and from the angle six yards out smashes the shot into the back of the net 1-1.
The home side enjoying a good spell break forwards in numbers yet again, Styles played in on the right again, rides a challenge keeping her feet before sending a looping cross in central, Keri Green in goal for Stevenage taking the ball low, catches well on the edge of her six yard box with Fraser charging in. Campbell pressuring the ball on the left side wins a corner, taken short the cross taken from a high angle into the area Taylor Parrish drifting in central headers the ball over the crossbar. Georgia Fraser with a 30 yard attempt power on the shot Green diving low at her near post probably had it covered as it runs wide.
Bowers & Pitsea’s, Taylor Adcock
Taylor Adcock beating Sherrie Evans to the ball in the middle lays the pass on to Campbell, a power run with the ball out to Georgia Fraser left side her cross into the area claimed well by Green getting in front of Dowman’s run. Styles carrying a threat on the right for Bowers & Pitsea is in behind, Shona Chitate coming across to slide in and clear the ball for a throw. A corner on the left side as the home side attack the ball lifted in towards the top of the area central Dowman with the header, on target but too many bodies to get pass as the Stevenage defence head behind for another corner. Off the 2nd corner Styles putting a dangerous ball in across the face of the Stevenage goal a difficult one for the defence to deal with getting it out for a 3rd corner left side. Parrish up to head this one in the box for Bowers & Pitsea top of the area knocked back down towards the near post no-one can connect to turn it in.
GOAL! Again Stevenage come up with a goal against the run of play to retake the lead getting up the other end a corner won on the right side players come forwards as Schofield prepares to take, Gemma Biggadike up high at the near side headers the ball down into the Bowers & Pitsea defender jumping with her comes back out to Cowell top of the area back out right to the corner taker Schofield from the angle she strikes the ball hard sending it arrowing in past the keeper 1-2.
Bowers & Pitsea make a change Eloise Ives joining the action, Emma Mackie off, Styles taking up a more central position.
GOAL! Stevenage get straight up the other end the ball on for Schofield to chase down in the area bouncing wide right of goal a race between her and Stephens, the goalkeeper appeared to get her gloves to the ball, as the pair come together Schofield up ended, the referee points to the spot a penalty awarded. Schofield herself to take a chance for a first half hat-trick makes no mistake sending the keeper the wrong way 1-3. Almost half an hour played.
A 1st half hat-trick for Stevenage’s Emily Schofield
Notschild getting back to help Chitate as Dowman plays a dinked pass over the top to get Styles in behind top of the area. A throw deep on the left the ball played on into the area Dowman doing well to get her head on it turns it goalwards but straight into Green. Natalie Strange with a long pas on for Styles moving out to the right channel, Chitate getting back on her making a good challenge to regain possession the ball into midfield helped on with Schofield running on Brooker to her left Courtney Fraser tackling the ball going for a throw.
Campbell strong on the ball coming on with it for Bowers & Pitsea 30 yards out hits a tremendous strike in towards goal, Green no chance the ball smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Stevenage clear. Lyttle winning the ball at the back played forwards high for Styles back to goal 20 yards out controls well before flicking it on for Ives going past her on the overlap, Keown doing well getting out to her to make the tackle for Stevenage a corner conceded. The ball into the area over the heads of Strange and Fraser, Wood-Thompson clearing it behind for another corner at the far post
GOAL! A great ball delivered into the area finds Georgia Fraser sneaking in unmarked central meeting the ball low turning it goalwards the shot racing in through a crowded six yard box to nestle in the back of the net 2-3.
GOAL! Two quickfire goals see Bowers & Pitsea right back on level terms as they score from another corner ball, on the left side the delivery long towards the far post defender Parrish rising unchecked far side 12 yards out sends a looping header up and in towards goal to drop under the crossbar and in 3-3.
Taylor Parrish heading home Bowers & Pitsea’s equalising goal
Five minutes left to play in a fast paced and exciting first half the sides all square at 3-3 Styles making a nuisance of herself through the middle the ball on into the area Chitate doing well to defend close on her Styles grounded still managing to get a shot away little power on it as Green picks it up. Campbell central slides the ball on for Dowman in behind shots from the top of the area wide, but wouldn’t have counted anyway the flag up against her.
GOAL! A complete turn around from Bowers & Pitsea, 3-1 down the take the lead late in the first half. Chitate caught in possession at the back 25 yards out Styles closing in to steal the ball bursts in behind into the area closing in on the goalkeeper, Notschild can’t get to her as Styles fires the shot past Green to claim her 2nd of the match 4-3.
Chances have dried up for Stevenage late in the first half a rare opportunity to put the ball forwards a free-kick left side 30 yards out, Biggadike over it the delivery flighted in towards the far post Stephens can see it drop wide of her goal. Schofield pushing on with the ball central has Biggadike out to her left. top of the area is forced wide good defensive work from Ives. Biggadike getting a cross into the area, Lyttle dealing with in for Bowers & Pitsea.
7 goals scored in the first half an exciting 45 minutes has flown by, Bowers & Pitsea with a positive start falling behind to an early goal. Continued in that same vain getting forwards well levelling the scores but again against the run of play Stevenage did well get score two quick goals to go 3-1 up. Bowers & Pitsea kept creating chances and capitalised from 2 corners to level the scores. Styles firing them into the lead late in the half. 4-3 I’d be surprised if it stayed that way 2nd half.
Hannah Marshall looking to get forwards for Stevenage
Stevenage to kick-off the 2nd half, have made a change Daniela Martucci carrying a slight injury on in attack, Biggadike off. Ebony Moore on in midfield replacing Adcock for the hosts. Bowers & Pitsea winning the ball central early on lift it forwards for Styles to try and bring down top of the area, Notschild getting in close on her to take the ball. Bowers & Pitsea build from the back Georgia Fraser bringing it on left sees Styles peeling out wide ahead of her sends her the ball the cross driven in towards the near post Dowman heading it down towards the top of the box with Campbell racing in meeting it first time her strike is deflected wide and behind for the corner.
GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea extend their lead early in the 2nd half attacking through the middle the ball fed into the run of Dowman bearing down on the box is about to be closed down, has Styles to her right slips her the ball and she sends the shot in across the keeper to score her hat-trick 5-3.
Danielle Styles completes her hat-trick for Bowers & Pitsea
Stevenage are doing their best to push the Bowers & Pitsea defence back, Evans putting the ball on for Martucci, Parrish intercepting. Bowers & Pitsea counter break Fraser left puts the ball into the area Styles opening up her body sends the shot crashing into the side netting. Schofield operating more to the left of attack 2nd half gets the ball forwards squares it into Martucci top of the area, she looks to turn in behind but is quickly closed down. Wood-Thompson looks to get forwards for Stevenage into the area, Courtney Fraser defending for Bowers & Pitsea.
Stevenage’s, Daniela Martucci
Martucci central holding the ball up well outside the box lays it off for Evans to run onto a strike 20 yards out driven in low Stephens well placed in goal gathers safely for Bowers & Pitsea. The home side continue to pressure the ball well inside their opponents half, giving Stevenage little room to create as they try and up the tempo. Green sending the ball long from a kick out of the gloves finds Marshall running into space on the right crosses early the ball dropping central for Martucci, the striker not quite able to get the ball under control.
Eloise Ives after the ball for Bowers & Pitsea
Changes for both sides Dowman off for Bowers & Pitsea, Louise Daly on, Brooker off for Stevenage, on in her place Naomi Sleator. Moore bringing the ball down 25 yards out for Bowers & Pitsea a spin and a shot the ball held by Green in goal.
GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea open up a 3 goal lead Styles with her 4th of the match creating a goal out of nothing the ball out on the right a throw-in played back to her is a long way out but catches it well the ball clearing the keeper and striking the back of the net 6-3.
Wood-Thompson coming off for Stevenage, Sydney Webb coming on. Martucci with the ball at her feet outside the area lets loose a shot the ball just a foot over the bar. Georgia Fraser on the ball for Bowers & Pitsea cutting inside from the left closing in on the box lifts a shot up over the bar. Styles comes off for Bowers & Pitsea, Rebecca Cochoran going on up front. Courtney Fraser with a long ball from the left into the area pressure on the keeper, Chitate around on the cover to clear.
Bowers & Pitsea playing well getting forwards at will Courtney Fraser again on the left the ball in central Cochoran with support from Moore central tries to pick out Daly’s run on the right, Sleator intercepting for Stevenage. Chitate tackling Cochoran central as Georgia Fraser pushes forwards with the ball. Green taking the ball well at the feet of Daly as the cross field pass comes into the area from wide left. Campbell comes off for Bowers & Pitsea, Styles back into the action. A quiet spell the substitutions slowing things down.
Stevenage’s, Shona Chitate
Into the last 10 minutes Chitate with a crucial foot in to stop the ball as Ives heading the ball on almost sends Georgia Fraser in on goal. Biggadike back on for Stevenage left side lifts the ball into the area, Stephens gets her gloves firmly upon it with Martucci running in.
GOAL! Stevenage have picked up the pace in the last minute and the game has gotten a little stretched Schofield back into a more central role along side Martucci receiving the ball timing her run off the last defender perfectly bursts into the area and sends a low strike under the diving keeper to pull a goal back with 8 minutes left to play 6-4.
GOAL! Straight away Stevenage score another to set up a nervous finish to the match, and it’s Schofield again with her 5th of the match almost a carbon copy of the last goal, the ball breaking favourably into her path after a committed tussle in midfield the striker in behind with the ball at her feet baring down on the keeper one on one she sends the ball wide of Stephens to bring the deficit back to a single goal 6-5.
Bowers & Pitsea’s Natalie Strange
Their 3 goal lead in danger of being wiped out Bowers & Pitsea are suddenly on the back foot, steel themselves for the closing minutes, Strange with a vital interception at the back. Georgia Fraser breaks in behind for the hosts into the area Green coming out to meet her making a brave save at her feet the ball popping loose Fraser off balance with 2nd bite at it sends the shot over. A late fee-kick for Stevenage left side up into the box Martucci controls before sending a low shot in towards goal Stephens claiming in low at her near post.
Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 6-5 Stevenage Ladies Reserves
It’s rare you’ll read about a 0-0 on here and today was certainly no exception treated to 11 goals this afternoon, a good contest at the top of ERWFL Division One. Bowers & Pitsea winning 6-5 the 3 points closing the gap on Stevenage at the top to just 2 points. A good performance from the host side and overall they were the better side for larger periods of the game, Stevenage not at their best at all know that but still found the back of the net for 5 goals, Emily Schofield now top scorer by my reckoning. The visitors with the early lead, Bowers & Pitsea responding were the better side only to fall 3-1 behind kept going and got the goals back ending u with a first half lead. An early goal 2nd half went 6-3 up. Two late goals from Stevenage setting up a nervy finish, never really got going will be disappointed. A thrill for the neutral but I was probably the only one there.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time to pick this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Got to give Emily Schofield a mention it’ll be unfortunate if you ever score 5 goals in a match and still end up on the losing side. All of them well taken. For Bowers & Pitsea I thought Sabrina Campbell had an excellent game in the middle of the park as did Jennifer Lyttle at the back. Overall all though with her 4 goals and the constant threat in attack and the vocal encouragement she offered her team mates today’s award goes to Danielle Styles.
Always a warm welcome from Bowers & Pitsea, enjoyed my trip down this afternoon and entertaining game, 11 goals plenty to write but it’s the game that provides the contents I just put it into words. Pleasure seeing both sides again and thanks for the help with the teams always appreciated.
Saved the biggest Round-Up till the last with the sides splitting to compete in their individual County Cup competition this Sunday both at the 2nd Round stage in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup
Three matches taking place in the 2nd Round of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup the winners joining, Houghton Athletic Ladies, Sharnbrook WFC, AFC Dunstable Ladies, Luton Town Ladies and current holders Bedford Ladies in the quarter finals.
The top two in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three meeting for the 1st time this season in the County Cup, leaders Langford Ladies away to AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. The home side having the better of the first half leading the game 2-0, Langford fought back in the 2nd half with Amber Clark and Chloe Scott both getting a goal, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College, finding a 3rd goal in the 2nd period edging their league rivals out to win the game 3-2.
Also riding high in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three are AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves sitting 3rd level on points with AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies and like them kept up their unbeaten start to the campaign with victory in the 2nd Round of the County Cup. Away to Stotfold Juniors Ladies this Sunday, top scorer Bianca Vassell moving onto 15 goals for the season as she found the back of the net for another 4 goals. Madison Ashford also on target with a brace, Ameerah Zaman-Choudary on the scoresheet too in a 7-0 win for Dunstable.
Bedfordshire sides dominating the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, 4th placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses were at home to 6th placed Biggleswade United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup, a 7 goal thriller between the sides, Kayleigh Saunders hitting a brace for Biggleswade with Helen Coster scoring the visitors 3rd. A brace from Laura Sephton along with a goal each for Victoria Harrold and Giselle Randall seeing Woburn & Wavendon edge the game to book their spot in the quarter finals.
The draw for the quarter finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup is as follows, the 4 ties to be played Sunday 16th December:-
AFC Dunstable Ladies v Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves
Sharnbrook WFC v Luton Town Ladies
Bedford Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies
Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup
8 ties in the 2nd Round of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup this Sunday and those saw plenty of goals scored too.
Cup holders, Stevenage Ladies were drawn at home taking on Hitchin Belles a tough test for the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two side but despite their being a 4 league gap between themselves and FAWNL South East Division One, Stevenage they gave it a go. Stevenage proving too strong on the day running out comfortable winners, scoring 16 goals without reply to progress to the quarter finals.
Charlotte South hit a double hat-trick for Royston Town Ladies as the ERWFL Premier Division side eased through at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup on Sunday. There was also a hat-trick for Sammy Tinsley along with a brace for Joanne Rutherford, Samantha Edgar also scoring in a 12-1.
12-1 was also the winning margin in the 2nd Round of the County Cup for Watford Ladies U23s side at home as they won comfortably against Stevenage Ladies Reserves on Sunday to book their place in the quarter finals.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Garston Ladies 2nd XI were also big winners at home in the competition on Sunday as they took on Division Three side, Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Ruby Jager getting on the scoresheet for 4 goals for Garston, Holly Jury 1 behind with a hat-trick, their were goals too for Lauren Berryman, Leah Crockett, Chloe Hazell and Charley Kelsey. Garston reaching double figures didn’t have it all their own way however as Bedwell Rangers struck home 3 goals at the other end with, Alicia Fieldsend, Chloe Jones and Rachel Jones all getting a goal each. Garston winning 11-3.
Garston Ladies young guns are also through to the quarter finals of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup after their U18s side won 3-0 at home to Sherrardswood Ladies in the 2nd Round this Sunday.
Colney Heath Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division were away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division One champions, St Albans Ladies in the 2nd Round of the County Cup this Sunday. Sophie Gardener scoring for Colney Heath midway through the 1st half putting the visitors into the lead. That the score at half-time Colney Heath had further chances to extend their lead. Nicola Hollick making it 2-0. Rianne Townsend-Brown adding a goal to the tally securing the win for Colney Heath as they reach the last 8.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies are also into the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup quarter finals as they edged their 2nd Round tie away to Watford Ladies Development on Sunday. leading 2-1 a half-time both sides scoring a further goal 2nd half Hemel Hempstead going through 3-2. Natasha McConville, Louise McCoy and Kayleigh Baker with their goals.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies reached the final of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup last season, needed extra-time to progress in this season’s competition, at home on Sunday taking on Beds & Herts Women’s Division One leaders, Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires. Janiece Allen and Ellie Burke scoring a goal each for Welwyn, as goal late in each half from Natasha Crick her 2nd 5 minutes from time seeing the sides drawing 2-2 at the final whistle. Onto extra-time and time was running out for either side to find a winner penalties looming, 3 minutes left of open play and Hoddesdon found the back of the net for the winning goal, Crick again completing her hat-trick to send Hoddesdon through to the quarter finals.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Natasha Crick
The draw for the quarter finals of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup as follows the games to be played Sunday 9th December:-
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies v Garston Ladies 2nd XI
Stevenage Ladies v Royston Town Ladies
Watford Ladies U23s v Colney Heath Ladies
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies v Garston Ladies U18s
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
A handful of league games too played at the weekend, one game in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, Garston Ladies 1st team at home to Houghton Athletic Ladies on Sunday. 3 straight defeats in the league at the start of the season for Garston seeing them bottom of the table were taking on a Houghton Athletic side looking to get back to winning ways themselves after a run of 3 straight defeats themselves after a promising start to the campaign. Despite a brace for Emily Watson for Houghton Athletic it was Garston who were celebrating at the final whistle as they won the game 3-2 to claim their 1st league points, Janine Rodgers, Yasmin Sabri and Kelly Spencer with the winning goals.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
In Beds & Herts Women’s Division Tow their were 4 league matches taking place on Sunday, and with leaders Hitchin Town Ladies not in action it was a chance for 2nd placed Letchworth Garden City Eagles to close the 4 point gap. Letchworth away to Bedford Ladies Development. Tayla Murray scoring twice her 7th & 8th goals of the season and a first goal of the campaign for Natalie Moey making her first appearance of the season securing a 3-1 victory. Letchworth with a game in hand on the leaders.
Evergreen Ladies join Sunday’s opponents on 8 points in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two were at home to 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies Development. A single goal the difference, Natalie Maher’s goal winning it for Evergreen Ladies.
A first league win of the season on Sunday in Division Two for Evergreen Eagles as they won away to Watton Ladies. Sian Owens and Amy Marshall striking the back of the net for Watton, Evergreen Eagles breaching their opponents goal for double that tally with, Samantha Feeney, Katie Hendry, Jessica Taylor and Paige Lacey-Akers all getting on the scoresheet in a 4-2 win.
A 2nd successive league win on Sunday sees Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies move up into mid-table following promotion from Division Three, were at home playing fellow promoted side Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Wheathampstead Wanderers picking up the 3 points courtesy of a 5-2 victory.
Cambridgeshire’s County Cup competition the Invitation Cup reaching the quarter final stage this Sunday, 8 sides vying for a place in the semi-finals, through without kicking a ball are ERWFL Division One side, St Ives Town Ladies awarded a home with after opponents ICA Sports Ladies withdrew.
That left 3 quarter final ties to be settled on the pitch. It was an all Championship tie with Championship North side, Wisbech Town Ladies hosting Championship South side, Park Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday. A 2nd successive win for Wisbech Town Ladies too as they reached the last 4 of the Invitation Cup courtesy of a 7-1 win. Both Amy Newell and Jasmine Luckett scoring two each, Luckett’s first goals for Wisbech Town, also scoring were Chloe Stanborough, Leah Hall and Sophie Swinden.
Cambridge City Ladies are the new holders of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup they began their defence of the trophy in the quarter finals drawn away from home against ERWFL Division One side, Histon Ladies. A 100% record at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies kept up their winning form winning the game 3-0 to reach the last 4 of the competition. Charlotte Gillies, Sarah Mosley and Erin Davies getting the goals.
FAWNL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC were drawn away in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup up against Newmarket Town Ladies, showing good form following promotion to ERWFL Division One this season. Newmarket holding thier higher league opponents for much of the 1st half, Cambridge United breaking from a Newmarket corner in the 44th minute, Jade Bell there to turn the ball into the back of the net as Mollie Coupar’s shot came back off the post. 1-0 the half-time lead it was Coupar herself who doubled the visitors lead her presence in the box bringing a defensive error for which she pounced on the ball and shot home. Bell put through on goal late in the match to score her 2nd of the game and send Cambridge United through to the last 4.
The draw for the semi-finals has been made and is as follows:-
Cambridge United WFC v St Ives Town Ladies
Wisbech Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup also beginning this Sunday, 2 tie scheduled in the 1st Round, Cambridge City Ladies Development going through courtesy of a home win over Riverside Ladies, that left just the one tie to be played.
March Town Ladies from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership hosting Championship North side, Wisbech St Mary Ladies. A comfortable first half for March saw them holding a 3-0 lead at half-time, doubled that scoreline 2nd half to progress with a 6-1 victory. Their goals coming from 6 different players with, Louise Barbour, Adele Munday, Emma Searle, Megan Webb, Georgia Brown and Claire Watts. Carlie Knight with the 2nd half goal for Wisbech St Mary.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
One game played this Sunday in the group stage of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup. In Group D, Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Cambridge University Women were hosting Burwell Tigers Ladies from the Championship South. Having suffered defeat away to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in their opening group match, Cambridge University got their 1st win this time around with goals from Amanda Wainwright and Lili Donlon Mansbridge plus a brace from Shona Lester securing a 4-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One league match played in Cambridgeshire at the weekend on Sunday morning in the Championship South, 3rd placed, Cambridge Rangers Women hosting 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development, a one sided contest with St Ives rampant in front of goal achieving a double figure scoreline to win the 3 points and move level on points with Haverhill Rovers Ladies at the top of the table. Frances Chapman scoring 4 goals, Megan Stow claiming a hat-trick, a goal to for Connie Hornibrook along with a brace for Jade Carpenter in a 10-0 win for St Ives.
