Thorpe United Ladies continue winning in Norfolk Women’s Division One their gap at the top 7 points, as they claimed a 2nd successive 3 point haul against opponents, Beccles Town Ladies this Sunday. A 6-0 win away from home last Sunday, Thorpe were on home soil this time leading 1-0 at half-time the home side went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win the game 3-0 and make is 7 wins from 8 played. Captain Rebekah Lake netting a brace along with a goal for midfielder Laura Hedtke sealing the win.
Two points from their last 3 league games has seen 2nd placed Aylsham Ladies lose ground on the leaders in Division One. Got back to winning ways this Sunday at home up against, Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Sophie Lubbock scoring all three of Aylsham’s goals as they ran out 3-1 winners. Lubbock top scoring for Aylsham on 7 goals so far this season.
A very tough start to the season for defending champions, Bungay Town Ladies, struggling for both numbers and injury woes the combination had seen them lose thier opening 5 league matches bottom of the Division One table were away to 4th placed Sprowston Ladies this Sunday. At last a little light as they earned their 1st point of the season, Bungay going into the lead scoring in the first half, Selina Rowland on target. Sprowston coming back in the 2nd half to level the scores through defender, Calista Tink to see them take a share of the points.
Calista Tink equalising for Sprowston Ladies in the 2nd half.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A weekend off for Fakenham Town Ladies last Sunday saw them surrender the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with unbeaten Taverham United Women moving to the top of the pile. It was Taverham themselves who saw their game away to Tavern Ladies called off due to a water-logged pitch this Sunday, Fakenham with a 100% record so far with 6 wins from 6 a chance to return to the top as they took on Horsford Women away from home. A 3-0 lead for the visitors at half-time went on to score another 4 in the 2nd period to win 7-0. Both, Fanny Danskanen and Jennifer Codman scoring a hat-trick a piece their was also a goal for captain, Sian Sands.
There were comfortable wins elsewhere in Division Two on Sunday. Third placed Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Ending a run of 3 successive defeats Bure Valley Wildcats have now won 3 in a row to climb the table. Were at home on Sunday playing Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 lead at half-time doubled that scoreline in the 2nd half to win 8-0. Charlie Cooper hitting a brace moves to 14 goals for the season as does Kiera Brown also getting a goal. Carrie Last scoring twice has 8 for the season. Molly Ferguson getting on the scoresheet too along with first goals of the season for Willow Locke and Lalaine Davey.
Dropping points in their last two league matches 4th placed Long Stratton Ladies got back to winning ways on Sunday with a crushing win away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies. Samantha Walker scoring 7 goals in the game their was a double hat-trick too for Charlie Head. Emily Watts scoring a brace along with a goal for Beth Stratton in a 16-0 win for the visitors. Bulldogs kept going despite the scoreline and a shortage of players.
A shortage of players too for Hockering Ladies to on Sunday as they travelled to Freethorpe Ladies with just the 9 available. Freethorpe with the numerical advantage getting the better of their opponents to win for the 3rd time this season and climb back up into 6th position. Leading 5-0 at half-time, added 5 more in the 2nd period to win the game 10-0. Laura-Jane Peachment top scoring in the game with a hat-tick her 1st goals of the season. Both Kiera Squires and Andrea Colbrook scored two each with goals too for Claire Garner and Amy Barbour. Samantha Greenland also on the scoresheet with her 1st of the season.
With Premier Division leaders, Cambridge City Ladies flying the flag for the ERWFL in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was an opportunity for the chasing sides to try and close the gap at the top of the table. 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies were on the road taking on Bedford Ladies. The visitors dropping points for the first time this season in a 4-4 draw against Wymondham Town Ladies last time out, took the lead against Bedford, Danielle Carty striking the ball in from a free-kick. Hayley Elderd doubling the advantage for Royston with a volley into the top corner. Bedford fought their way back into the game coming back to level the score with Michelle Byrne and Sophie Mulvihill on target to make it 2-2. Royston’s getting back into the lead with a strike from Rebecca Scott, her 4th goal of the season winning the game for Royston who move to within 2 points of Cambridge City Ladies.
Also joining Royston on 19 points, moving into 3rd on goal difference are Peterborough Northern Star Ladies. An 88th winning goal from Emma Pollard seeing them fight back from being 3-1 against fellow title hopefuls, Acle United Women on Sunday. Acle travelling to Peterborough 4th versus 5th in the Premier Division. Grace Birchall putting the Norfolk side into the lead 11 minutes into the game. Peterborough’s Katie Steward getting the scores back on level terms before Acle restored their 1st half lead from the penalty spot, Birchall with her 2nd of the game. Acle 2-1 up at half-time extended the lead early in the 2nd half with a goal scored by Kate Pasque. Peterborough again finding a quick reply to get it back to 3-2, Steward with her 2nd of the game. Into the final 10 minutes, Peterborough awarded a free-kick, Steward taking it scoring from 30 yards out to complete her hat-trick taking her onto 8 for the season, briefly level with top scorer Emma Pollard who bagged the winning goal 2 minutes from time running onto a through ball beating the keeper and scoring the 4-3 win moving Peterborough up to 3rd.
Wymondham Town Ladies won at the weekend to take them up into the top half of the Premier Division table. Hosting bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Mollie O’Callaghan opening the scoring for the hosts in the 15th minute. Top scorer Laura Nicholls putting Wymondham 2 nil up 5 minutes later added another in the 36th. 3-0 up and deep into 1st half stoppage time Wymondham were awarded a penalty, vice-captain Leah Newcombe sending the ball home from the spot to put Wymondham 4-0 up. Further chances created but no more goals until the final minute, Hannah Waters finding the back of the net for 5-0, time for another in the 90th minute Nicholls completing another hat-trick to secure a 6-0 win.
Also winning by 6 goals at the weekend were Essex side, Harlow Town Ladies as they to move up a place to 7th in the Premier Division table winning away to Suffolk’s AFC Sudbury Ladies. Lily Bruno scoring a hat-trick moves onto 8 goals for the season. Goals to for Abbey Dell, Tayla Handscombe and Chloe Bassett to seal a comfortable 6-0 away win.
Harlow Town Ladies, Lily Bruno
A win at last in the league for Colney Heath Ladies after a promising start taking 4 points from their opening two league games, haven’t got a point since then losing 5 in a row in the Premier Division. The bad run halted at home on Sunday as Colney Heath played host to AFC Dunstable Ladies who themselves were coming into the game off the back of their 1st win of the season. The hosts opening the scoring from a free-kick a 2nd goal coming through Nicola Hollick, Colney Heath 2-0 at the break.Kelly Glynn making it 3-0. Dunstable pulling a goal back Sophie Bailey with a long range shot to make it 3-1. Adrienne Milton firing in a goal late on to secure a 4-1 win for Colney Heath.
ERWFL Division One
In ERWFL Division One, leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves open up a 7 point lead at the top of the table coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller away to Lawford Ladies on Sunday. Emily Schofield putting Stevenage into the lead, Lawford coming back quickly to make it 1-1 had further chances in the 1st half, Stevenage though getting back in front Nicole Emmings scoring to make it 2-1. Lawford scoring a further two goals with Jasmine Cox, Daisy Canny and Ella Boyden all on the scoresheet a goal from Hannah Marshall plus a 2nd from Emmings seeing Stevenage clinch a 4-3 to pull away at the top.
That defeat for Lawford, coupled with no game for 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies and County cup action for 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies presented an opportunity for 5th and 6th placed Hutton Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to make ground in what is a very tight race behind the leaders. The Essex pair meeting at Bowers & Pitsea on Sunday. Sophie Dowman opening the scoring putting Bowers & Pitsea 1-0 up in the 1st half with her 5th goal of the season. Hutton came back to level the scores top scorer Vicky Kinsman finding the back of the net for her 23rd goal of the season. The score all square at 1-1 at half-time it was Hutton who took the lead early in the 2nd half, Kinsman with her 2nd of the match. Bowers & Pitsea’s turn to pull the scores level as 12 minutes later their top scorer Danielle Styles scored from an acute angle to make it 2-2 with her 7th of the season. Both pushing for a winning goal late on neither could having to settle for a share of the points, enough to move Hutton into 3rd position in the table whilst Bowers & Pitsea climb to 5th spot just a point behind the 3 sides above them.
Hoddesdon Town Ladies in 7th position are just 2 points of that group themselves won the 3 points at home on Sunday to win for the 3rd time in the league this season at home to Hertford Town Ladies. Rebecca Scola scoring her 1st goal since her return to Hoddesdon putting them into the lead in the 14th minute. 1-0 it remained until the final 22 minutes, Kristina O’Connell netting for the 6th time this season to double the lead and secure a 2-0 win for Hoddesdon.
At long last Bishops Stortford Ladies can celebrate a victory in the league, their last ERWFL Division One win coming at the very start of last season’s campaign. Has been a tough time for the club since the players and staff sticking together through those difficult times often short on numbers. 3 points on the board after more than 12 months. Were at home taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies, themselves struggling in the league since promotion this season. A purple patch for Bishops Stortford with 5 goals scored in the space of 7 first half minutes doing the damage, Jemma Good scoring her 1st of the season in the 28th minute. Captain Brogan McHale scoring a minute later, Teigan McHale not long after with her 1st of the season. Broghan McHale getting a 2nd then Heather Martin making it 5-0 in the 35th minute. Broghan McHale going on to add her 3rd and complete a hat-trick on the hour to see Bishops Stortford win the game… and finally get a tag in The Round-Up.
Chichester City Ladies continue to lead the FAWNL Southern Premier Division winning at home on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side holding the advantage at the half-time interval with Holly Turner’s goal on 13 minutes the difference. Chichester coming back well with a strong 2nd half performance to keep their winning run going. Cherelle Khassel coming on at the start of the 2nd half making her 50th appearance for the club and celebrated by scoring a 16 minute hat-trick, levelling the scores in the 47th minute put Chichester into the lead 6 minutes later an own goal extending the lead on the hour before the 4th and Khassel’s 3rd was put into the back of the net in the 62nd minute. Courtney Clarke scoring for C&K Basildon late in the game, Chichester with 6 wins in a row now in league and cup.
2nd placed Coventry Unite Ladies were back in action this Sunday after two weekends without a fixture in that time have seen their lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division taken by Chichester. Were away this Sunday up against Queens Park Rangers Women. The London side taking the lead in the 13th minute Jo Wilson scoring for the 4th successive match. The lead didn’t last long Coventry back on level terms just 2 minutes later Marie Gauntlett with the goal. 4 minutes later Coventry had the lead Shannon O’Brien scoring to make it 2-1. A narrow lead for Coventry at half time the visitors stepping it up 2nd half Jade Brook made it 3-1 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick fire goals from Lois Jefferies and Amber Hughes midway through the 2nd half extending Coventry’s lead to 5-1. Substitute, Amy Wathan hitting a double in the last 15 minutes to seal a 7-1 win.
3rd placed Watford Ladies were playing host on Sunday to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The visitors getting the lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Leah Littlechild scoring from a corner kick. 17-year-old Ellie Gough making her 1st start for Milton Keynes Dons celebrated the occasion with a goal as she rounded the keeper inside the box to put Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 on the half hour. A 2-0 advantage at half-time, Milton Keynes Dons kept Watford at bay 2nd half as the home side sought to avoid a 3rd straight defeat in league and cup, Leah Cudone getting forwards in the 84th minute securing the 3 points with a strike from outside the box to make it 3-0. The win moving Milton Keynes Dons up to 8th and into double figures in their debut season playing in the Southern Premier Division.
3 straight league wins sees another promoted side Loughborough Foxes Women rise up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table. Were at home this Sunday up against Portsmouth FC Women. Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner to put Loughborough into the lead midway through the 1st half. The hosts lead short-lived however as Portsmouth responded straight away getting forwards Rachel Panting getting onto the end of a cross to make it 1-1. A close contest the winning goal coming in the final 15 minutes a goalmouth scramble resulting in the ball ending up in the back of the net an own goal from Portsmouth seeing Loughborough claim the 3 points winning 2-1.
2-1 was also the winning score between Oxford United Women and Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Oxford starting the day in 6th place in the Southern Premier Division at home to 4th placed Plymouth the hosts taking the lead in the 11th minute. Held onto the 1-0 advantage going into the half-time break. Plymouth hitting back early on in the 2nd half to level the scores, captain Katie Middleton making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. That remained the score up until the 86th minute, Oxford awarded a penalty, Georgia Timms cool from the spot getting the ball past the keeper (just) to secure the win Oxford up to 4th, Plymouth down to 6th after the weekends results.
FAWNL South East Division One
Just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday with 3rd placed Enfield Town Ladies travelling to 6th placed Leyton Orient WFC. An own goal favouring the hosts as Leyton Orient went ahead in the 12th minute. Two strike late in the first half from Tara O’Halloran and Hayley Barton making the half-time lead comfortable at 3-0. Chanel Richards scoring within 2 minutes of the restart consolidating the home sides advance a 5th goal added on the hour, Richards with her 2nd of the game, securing a 5-0 win for Leyton Orient to extend their unbeaten league run to 5 games takes them up a place into 5th the top half of the table very tight.
The FA Women’s Cup saw 15 ties drawn for this Sunday, the 1st Round Proper of the competition. An £850 prize for the winners with the FAWNL Premier Division sides set to enter in the next round. 5 of the 1st Round ties featuring sides covered by Women’s Football East. One of those falling foul to the weather, AFC Wimbledon Ladies away to New London Lionesses called off due to a water-logged pitch.
It was action from the FA Women’s Cup too this weekend for Women’s Football East a return to the Trinity College Playing Fields to watch a local derby between Cambridge City Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division hosting rivals Cambridge United WFC competing in the league above, FAWNL South East Division One. Cambridge City Ladies making history already reaching the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup, top of the ERWFL Premier Division hold a 100% winning record going into the game, saw a thrilling game in 2nd Round Qualifying as they came back to beat FAWNL South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC 5-4.
A large crowd in attendance to watch Cambridgeshire’s leading women’s footballing sides go head to head. Certainly had the feel of a local derby, an intriguing watch the sides evenly matched first half ending goalless. A tense start to the 2nd half Cambridge City asserting some pressure substitute Bella Simmons forcing a fantastic save from Cambridge United goalkeeper Savannah Smith. Cambridge United broke with 15 minutes left captain Kelley Blanchflower out to the left wing sending a great cross into the area over Becky Shepherd making a central run, new signing Jade Bell meeting the ball at the far post sending it into the back of the net for her first goal for the club United leading 1-0.
Sarah Mosley getting the ball up field for Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridge City left it late against Leyton Orient to win the game, was another late strike to equalise right at the death and force the game into extra-time, Lauren Tomlinson with a long throw into the near post area, the ball not cleared popping out to Bella Simmons to smash the ball into the back of the net and get buried under her team mates in celebration. Into extra-time momentum firmly with Cambridge City, United rattled forced to make a keeper change, unhappy with some refereeing decisions, one of those a contributing factor to City going on to take the lead a well worked move from the throw-in down the line on the left, the cross in central top of the area Laura Mills finding a pocket of space meeting the ball firmly firing it into the goal, City lead 2-1! United couldn’t find a reply, Emma Jenkins coming closest late on seeing her close range attempt cleared of the line from a corner. Cambridge City winning to make it into the 2nd Round draw, where thy have been paired away to FAWNL Southern Premier Division side, Oxford United Women.
Cambridge City Ladies celebrate their late equaliser goalscorer Bella Simmons in under there somewhere
Luton Town Ladies from FAWNL South East Division One were hosting, Kent United Ladies from the London & South East Regional Premier Division in the FA Women’s Cup, 1st Round Proper this Sunday. Like the Cambridge derby, the lower league side holding their opponents to a goalless draw at half-time. Midway through the 2nd half the dead lock was broken the visitors awarded a penalty, Elizabeth Waldie stepping up to score from the spot to put Kent United into the lead. Luton coming back to level with 15 minutes left to play Nicola Henman sending the ball home to make it 1-1. The game heading into extra-time with neither side managing to edge victory it was to be settled on penalties. Luton holding their nerve, Kent United missing theirs Luton make it to the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup where they have been drawn away to fellow league side Billericay Town Ladies.
Billericay Town Ladies needing extra-time themselves to progress in the FA Women’s Cup and make history by reaching the 2nd Round of the competition. Were away to fellow South East Division One side, Norwich City Ladies. The hosts getting off to the great start opening the scoring with Chelsea Garrett making it 1-0 with her 10th goal of the season. Ellie Smith doubling Norwich’s lead to see them 2-0 up at half-time. Both sides though reduced to 10 before the half-time whistle. Billericay fought back in the 2nd half getting a goal back then levelling the scores to send the game into the added 30. The visitors down to 9 following a 2nd sending off, nevertheless managed to get their noses in front to lead 3-2. Held on as Norwich to ended the game with 9. A home tie with Luton Town Ladies in the 2nd Round the reward.
No drama for Crawley Wasps Ladies in the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup as the leaders of FAWNL South East Division One maintained their 100% winning start to the season on Sunday at home to London & South East Regional Premier Division side, Queens Park Rangers Girls. Kemina Webber opening the scoring for Crawley Wasps in the 13th minute. Emma Plewa doubling the lead midway through the 1st half to see Crawley 2-0 up at half-time. Plewa adding her 2nd of the game 4 minutes into the 2nd half. Megan Stow with a superb 25 yard strike on the hour making it 4-0 to the hosts, Plewa wrapping up her hat-trick 5 minutes later. Ariana Fleischman scoring with 20 minutes left to see Crawley Wasps win the game 6-0. A home tie in the 2nd Round up against FAWNL Southern Premier Division leaders, Chichester City Ladies.
20 ties pulled out of the bag for the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup, scheduled to be played Sun 2nd December. The full draw listed below:-
Sheffield FC Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies
Long Eaton United Ladies v Hull City Ladies
Leeds United Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Bradford City Women
Sunderland AFC Ladies v Fylde Ladies
Chester-Le-Street Town Ladies v Stoke City Ladies
Middlesborough Women v Stockport County Ladies
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v West Bromich Albion Women
Guiseley AFC Vixens v Derby County Ladies
Wolverhampton Wanderers Women v Blackburn Rovers Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies
Loughborough Foxes Women v Gillingham Ladies
Billericay Town Ladies v Luton Town Ladies
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Southampton Women
New London Lionesses or AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Portsmouth FC Women
The 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday afternoon and it’s a local derby for Women’s Football East returning to the Trinity Playing Fields to watch Cambridge City Ladies take on rivals Cambridge United WFC.
A contest between the leading women’s football sides in Cambridgeshire, Cambridge United WFC playing in FAWNL South East Division One whilst Cambridge City Ladies compete just one league below the ERWFL Premier Division.
They were once one at youth level, Cambridge Women forming and going on to rise through the woman’s football pyramid reaching the FAWNL, a merger with Cambridge United seeing them become Cambridge United WFC. Several players have since returned to Cambridge City who themselves are rising through the women’s football pyramid. Local rivals their most recent meeting seeing Cambridge City win the Invitation (County) Cup Final last season to end a spell of dominance from United.
A runners-up finish for Cambridge City Ladies in their debut season playing in the ERWFL Premier Division, are looking to go one better this time around win the title and with it join the FAWNL themselves. Have made a perfect start a 100% in all competitions to date including making history in reaching the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time.
Began their FA Women’s Cup campaign back in the Preliminary Round with a away match against Newmarket Town Ladies a 2-0 seeing them draw at home to Cambridgeshire Premiership side Riverside Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying a crushing 14-0 victory setting up another home tie in 2nd Round Qualifying against higher league opponents, Leyton Orient WFC, Women’s Football East was there to watch the match a thriller 9 goals scored Cambridge City 2-0 down late in the 1st half came back to win an exciting 2nd half 5-4! A much different game in 3rd Round Qualifying an away trip to fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Women. Laura Mills scoring the opening minutes, Cambridge City defending resolutely as Acle pushed hard for an equalising goal, held out and booked thier place in the 1st Round Proper.
Cambridge United WFC are well established in the FAWNL South East Division One, those clubs entering the FA Women’s Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying. A home draw against ERWFL Premier Division side, Harlow Town Ladies, a comfortable 6-0 win over the Essex side setting up a 3rd Round Qualifying tie at home to fellow South East Division One side Stevenage Ladies. 2-0 up Stevenage came back late on to level the scores send the tie into extra-time, for there penalties Cambridge holding their nerve to win the shootout and reach the 1st Round Proper.
Despite alot of overnight rainfall, knew from previous experience the Trinity Playing Fields will hold out well, the pitch looking in good condition, a local derby alot of interest generated a good number arriving. Hot drinks available plus Cambridge City were laying on hot food for the afternoon. A good atmosphere building, sunny but cloudy a shower possible but unlikely.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Robyn Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sarah Mosley, Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills, Erin Davies & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Bella Simmons, Anna Kanz, Emily Reed & Ceri Flye.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Vicky Neal, Fran Gough, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Amber Cantwell, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Faith Hewitt & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Charlotte Crisp, Zoe Lander, Steph Gale, Mollie Coupar & Liz Pamplin.
A moment of remembrance before the match a poignant day, 100 years since Armistice Day that brought an end to World War I. The team captains laying a wreath on the centre circle before a period of silence… Lest We Forget.
Captains, Kelley Blanchflower & Becca Fay laying a wreath of poppies in Remembrance of Armistice Day
There’s a buzz in the air a crowd eagerly gathered to watch surrounding the pitch, no point using Cambridge from here on in, City v United. It’s City to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played out to the right side, Gabrielle Whitehurst winning the tackle for United the ball out for a throw.
City attack the ball played out to Charlotte Gillies on the right cuts inside before lifting the ball over the United defence with Laura Mills making the run in behind, Savannah Smith in goal for United able to safely gather inside the box. Derby matches can see some robust and usually clumsy tackles early on and this one is not exception, United right back, Emma Jenkins getting clipped across the ankles, Mill sliding in bring down Jade Bell. The latter resulting on a free-kick wide right the ball into the area knocked on towards goal City goalkeeper claiming the ball as it runs into her six yard box.
Charlotte Gillies on the ball for Cambridge City Ladies
City attack on the left Shannon Shaw on for Mills, Jenkins getting in to tackle and put the ball out for a throw. Defending inside their area the ball moved quickly through the middle a United break, captain, Kelley Blanchflower with a powerful run on the ball, central, rides Hannah Bodily’s challenge before running in Robyn Phillips the City centreback regaining possession of the ball inside her box. A good tempo both sides pushing players forwards, United break left, Blanchflower running into the channel as Becky Shephard plays the ball forwards, Mhunduru out to the edge of her area quickly sliding in to claim the ball at the strikers feet.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Emma Jenkins
United’s Amber Cantwell take the ball on through the middle laying it off to Faith Hewitt tries her luck from 30 yards out the ball swinging away from goal. Gillies fouled on the right, a low ball played into the area, Vicky Neal putting in a block before clearing, Jenkins committing the foul 25 yards out City with a chance to shoot. Erin Davies over the ball goes for goal the ball wide past the post takes a clips off a United defender on the way through, the corner given. Mills from the left the delivery long towards the far post, the header sending the ball behind for the goal kick.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell with Cambridge City’s, Erin Davies
Bodily looks to find space on the left as she comes forwards, Jenkins getting support from Bell dealing with the threat. A throw in, you know from the last report that Lauren Tomlinson has a long one in he armoury United winning the ball in the box, Neal clearing. End to end Shaw with Mills in attack for City, United break the counter attack bringing a free-kick 25 yards out left of the D. Jenkins to have a shot on goal, Mhunduru with a fantastic save diving to her right pushes the ball behind for the corner kick.
Bell available on the right for United as they bring the ball forwards, Gillies looking lively on City’s right flank. The niggly free-kicks continue, United showing a little frustration. Good work from Cantwell in the middle winning the ball runs on the pass on for Bell she sends it on for Blanchflower coming over to the right her cross swung into the box cut out by City captain, Becca Fay. Hewitt’s turn to get the ball forwards for United, out to Bell on the right side, a strong tackle from Tomlinson to stop the attack.
Kelley Blanchflower ready to tackle Cambridge City’s Sarah Mosley
A free-kick on halfway for City the ball played long up into the area, Neal backpedalling for United with the header on the six yard line the ball drops straight to the advancing Davies top of the area meets the shot on the volley her effort spins wide of the target. Shaw takes the ball forwards almost succeeds in playing Mills in behind instead the ball is cleared for a throw on the left. Tomlinson goes long the ball inside the area knocked on towards the near post, Smith catches it not put off by Davies attempting to get her head on it.
Mills pulls away to the left wing on the ball down the line swings a cross into the area, Shaw lined up with the far post 12 yards out up to get her head on the ball knocked down, Smith with a slight stumble before getting down to push the ball away for the corner. In towards the near post headed behind for a 2nd corner from 3 yards out. The 2nd corner in from the right, met again near side deeper this time, Phillips sending the header wide.
Shaw with a good run with the ball for City through the middle lays it out to Gillies getting forwards on the left, cuts inside the full back into the area shaping to shoot, Neal racing across gets the challenge in the rob her of the ball. Smith racing out of her area misses the ball as it is played long up to Shaw, the United defence back on the cover clearing the ball long before it can reach the goal. Amy Reed getting forwards from right back for City to the byline with the ball her cross in claimed at the near post by Smith.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Vicky Neal
Fay receives the first yellow card of the game as she slides in to take out Bell right side. The ball from the resulting set-piece fired in towards the far post area, Mhunduru claiming well not put off by the runners coming in. Davies steals in to win the ball off the United defence right side spots Mills making a run in from the left tries to find her, Smith though can intercept the pass. Bell with a jinking run right side looks to get into the box, the City defence converging running her off the ball. Tomlinson breaking away on the left wing for City, Jenkins doing well up against her preventing the cross before defending and winning the goal kick.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-0 Cambridge United WFC
An intriguing 1st 45 minutes, certainly has a derby feel about it two committed sides that have provided the crowd with an enjoyable game so far. Very good numbers in attendance and heard lots of positive comments too. Goalless neither side has gotten on top of the other, spells of pressure short lived, some lively challenges but not malice more niggly, it’s tense out there. An interesting 2nd half to come and extra-time… and penalties should they be required.
Sarah Mosley getting the ball up field for Cambridge City Ladies
It’s United to kick-off the 2nd half the sun low in the sky in Smith’s eyes. City winning the ball in the middle come forwards Davies out to Mills on the left her early cross into the box met central by Shaw knocked down into the ground, Smith right behind it collecting safely. Whitehurst brought down in the middle United awarded the free-kick, Cantwell to put the ball up into the area, Phillips winning the header for City. Phillips defending again as United’s Blanchflower and Shephard look to combine on the right.
Kelley Blanchflower looking to shake of Cambridge City Ladies, Robyn Phillips
Shepherd’s run in behind halted through the middle the flag up against her following good work form Cantwell in the middle of the park. Carrie Bennett defending at left back stopping Gillies as she tries to cut inside her from the wing. City attack left side the ball played on for Shaw to chase, Gough on her shoulder running towards the box, Smith coming to kick the ball clear, smashes it unluckily against Gough, Shaw alert onto the rebound the keeper out of position she shots from the angle, Bennett racing back to clear if needed the ball striking the outside of the post and out of play.
Erin Davies attacking for Cambridge City Ladies
Shephard gets into space on the left given the ball takes it on in behind her cross squared into the box along the top of the six yard box an awkward height for Bell nevertheless does well the get her leg back enough to get a kick in towards goal, lacking pace however Mhunduru diving it able to smother the shot. Gillies doing well on the right wing for City, support from Reed and Davies playing her in, inside the area, the United defence closing her down Gough winning the tackle. City make the first change of the game, off comes Mosley on comes Bella Simmons.
Amy Reed dealing with the ball for Cambridge City Ladies
Gillies with a storming run down the right side plays the cross into the box United defending as Mills tries to turn it in at the near post. City have a corner on the right the ball into the six yard box comes at Simmons quickly can’t direct it in on target. City applying a little pressure now another cross in from the right flashing across the face of goal.
Smith with a fantastic save to deny City the opening goal, pressure around the 18 yards box the cross in central Simmons 10 yards out central shifts the ball well the goal looks there for the taking as she unleashes a shot, Smith throwing herself up to her right full stretch getting behind it gloving the ball away for the corner brilliant. The corner from the right long carries to Mills a the top of the area her strike goalwards charged down the rebound out to the left the cross put back in Smith with the catch.
Bell coming out to the left has support from Hewitt down the line edge of the box, Phillips in with a good tackle to stop Bell turning inside. The ball staying that side United keep it Bell getting another opportunity to send a cross in, very nearly results in an own goal, Tomlinson running a with Blanchflower getting the first touch the ball turned goalwards inside her six yard box, manages to get to it to hook it up over the bar.
Robyn Phillips tackling Cambridge United’s Jade Bell
Hewitt with a strike on goal from outside the area as the ball comes out to her from the corner, takes a deflection sending it wide for another corner. Swung in under the bar Mhunduru up under challenge does enough to get the ball away from danger. Bell wins a throw on the right the ball played on into the area won by Phillips, City counter attack the ball up to Mills, Gough closing her down does well up against her.
GOAL! Closing in on the final 15 minutes and United break the dead lock, good running from Blanchflower coming out to the left side down the line, checks back inside before looking up and lifting a cross into the area the ball over Shepherd leaping in a central position falls to, Bell at the far post meeting it perfectly to volley back in towards goal and score, her 1st goal for United in only her 3rd appearance 0-1.
United make a change straight after the goal, Charlotte Crisp coming on to replace Hewitt in the middle. City press the ball lifted up through the middle headed out to Gillies coming inside from the right onto the ball fires in a shot races wide across the face of goal. Blanchflower with a driving run bursting towards the area tackled by Reed as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. United make a 2nd change, Mollie Coupar on for Shepherd. Decisions continue to frustrate United, players letting their emotions show.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Gabrielle Whitehurst
Gillies still full of running on the right, down the wing sends in and inviting cross low into the six yards box, Smith down low pushes the ball away from danger. City win a free-kick in the corner on the left, the ball high into the six yard box Smith up for it falls awkwardly under challenge, play stopped needs treatment. Jenkins booked for expressing her anger. Shaw gets onto the end of a cross put in from the left plants the ball wide of the near post.
GOAL! Into stoppage time a throw in deep on the left the ball is put into a congested near post area pings around feet before popping loose back to a City shirt, a shot the ball lashed into the back of the net, City equalise, now you try to look for the scorer but she’s currently under the rest of her teammates as they bundle into celebrate 1-1. The goal scored by Bella Simmons.
Cambridge City Ladies celebrate their late equaliser goalscorer Bella Simmons under there somewhere
Smith is struggling in goal for United, Pamplin being readied, carrying injuries herself including a broken finger but that won’t stop her. City pressure late on pushing for a winner, a free-kick on the right Reed to put the ball into the box cleared as the final whistle blows and the game heads into extra-time.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC
Extra-time
Momentum firmly with City right now as the teams gather their composure for the extra period of play the sun low in the sky now. A blow for United, Smith cannot continue, Pamplin comes on in goal. United frustrated with the officials too. City to kick-off the 1st 15 minutes of extra play. Gillies winning the ball right side running on her cross high landing behind the goal. City come again right side this time win a throw inside the United half, Bell actually playing the ball off Tomlinson, the fans all knowing the decision is wrong so too the United bench, manager Kevin Hoover getting a talking to from the referee as he voices his complaints.
GOAL! From the throw-in City go on to score a well worked move Tomlinson’s throw down the line good the cross put in early towards the top of the area Mills making a good move getting herself into space inside the D, unmarked hits the ball well rifling it into the back of the net and moments from going out of the FA Women’s Cup, City are in front 2-1.
Laura Mills strikes in extra-time to put Cambridge City Ladies into the lead
City looking confident have their tails up now the goal restoring energy levels, space opening up Gillies right her cross early long Mills far side turns it goalwards, Pamplin down low easily able to gather. Shaw turning inside with the ball from a throw in foul Cantwell as she tries to get into the area. Coupar winning the ball deep on for Blanchflower left takes on the shot early and attempted lob, doesn’t have enough height on it to worry Mhunduru.
United pressing forwards room in behind as City counter the ball fed into Shaw, both Simmons and Davies into the area, the latter left side slices her shot wide. Gough defends well as Tomlinson forces her way forwards looking to get in behind her, Neal around on the cover to make sure the ball is cleared. Gillies on the right inside for Shaw she is tackled by Gough outside the box the ball coming back for Gillies she strikes it goalwards from 25 yards out lands in the side netting.
A brave save from Mhunduru as Coupar running with the ball left side into the middle sends Bell through into the area left of goal the City keeper rushing in to slide down at her feet the ball deflected away for a corner. The corner is fired in across the face of goal low, Jenkins gets onto it at the far post, a goal line clearance keeping the ball out.
Half-time extra-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-1 Cambridge United WFC
The sun low in the sky now as United kick-off the 2nd period of extra-time 15 minutes to find a reply. The visitors press forwards Blanchflower with Coupar central moving left, Reed defending for City, Crisp gathers the ball on the wing the cross fired in central, Whitehurst stretching for the ball can’t quite reach it.
City break attacking on the right Gillies played on by Mills, Bennett doing well as she stands up against her. Zoe Lander on at right back for United replacing Jenkins. Blanchflower getting hold of the ball takes on 3 City plays manages to get n behind into the area left of goal looks to place the ball high past Mhunduru the City keeper doing well getting a glove to the ball taking it behind for a corner.
City make a change, Davies coming off on comes Emily Reed. Mills is booked for a late challenge on Cantwell on halfway. Neal looks to get in behind from the set-piece the flag up for a foul against her. Mhunduru comes for a free-kick into her six yards box on the right pushing the ball down and away gets hurt as she falls the decision going her way, needs treatment looks in pain but thankfully in up shakily and able to continue. Gillies booked late of for a clip on Neal’s heels. The free-kick defended, City counter the ball with Mills on the right wins a throw. No time left for a United counter, as City win 2-1 to reach the 2nd Round.
Full time extra-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-1 Cambridge United WFC
A thrilling game, intriguing a great watch and a god crowd in attendance to see two committed and passionate sides go head to head in the FA Women’s Cup. It’s a relatively new rivalry but these two sides are destined to meet again plenty of times in the future. The momentum with City now and well deserved conceding late they demonstrated once again their ability to keep going keep pressing and got back on level terms late on. Taking the lead early in the 2nd half to win in extra time and keep their 100% record going. Will be eagerly awaiting the 2nd Round draw when the FAWNL Premier Division sides enter the competitions.
Frustrating in the end for United, taking the lead but couldn’t hold out aggrieved at decisions before falling behind only adding to the case. Played their part in a passionate derby however and the game had the feel of a proper cup tie too and who can predict those?
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders in what was a really enjoyable game. Savannah Smith with an outstanding save for United, Kelley Blanchflower making some excellent runs using the channels well too. For City, Charlotte Gillies was lively in the right wing some great runs with the ball, bringing others into play, Shannon Shaw with some good hold up play in attack and Robyn Phillips terrific at centre back. Just ahead of those though is Laura Mills excellent in attack finding space on both flanks and through the middle, driving with the ball and a quality strike to win the game wins today’s award.
A great game attracting plenty of interest a good crowd to witness an intriguing encounter between two of the best woman’s football sides in Cambridgeshire. Perhaps one of those rare games where I actually know who the players are, but it always pays to get those team sheets and my thanks as always to both clubs for helping me out. Wishing Cambridge City Ladies all the best for the 2nd Round draw.
Two games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this weekend and with the league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development not in action it was an opportunity for 2nd placed ICA Sports Ladies to move level on points with them at the top of the table. This Sunday ICA Sports Ladies were at home taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Kylie Armstrong scoring twice to take her goals tally to 6 for the season for ICA Sports, there was a brace too for Bente Hanert her first goals for the club in only her 2nd appearance. Donna Nicholls on target too with a goal wrapping up a 5-0 win for ICA Sports joined the leaders on 12 points.
Is tight in the Premiership table below the leading pair, Histon Ladies Reserves winning for the 2nd time this season leaping up to 3rd in the table. At home were taking on Riverside Ladies this Sunday, Daniella Briggs scoring her first goals of the season netting twice for Histon, Sarah Freestone on target too for her first goal of the campaign with Sophie also scoring in a 4-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
The top two in the Championship North went head to head on Sunday for the 1st time this season, both level on points with a 100% winning start to the season, Ketton Ladies ahead on goal difference hosting Wisbech Town Ladies. Ketton having the better of thing’s were leading the game 4-1 when the game was abandoned quarter of an hour into the 2nd half following a medical emergency to one of the Wisbech Town players. Awaiting a response to see if the result stands or the game will be replayed at a later date. Individual rules for league can vary the norm being 70 minutes. More importantly though is the health of the players and Women’s Football East wishes the player involved all the best for a full and speedy recovery.
Elsewhere in the Championship North 3rd placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies were hosting 4th placed Cardea Ladies. Wisbech St Mary claiming the 3 points in a high scoring game winning 8-3 to move onto 9 points. Josie Turner scoring a hat-trick moves onto 11 goals since joining in the summer. A goal too for Hannah Shales takes her tally to 8. There were 1st goals of the season for 3 players too for Wisbech St Mary with Carlie Knight getting a brace, Eilish Brown and Lauren Laws also celebrating a goal each.
The bottom two in the Championship North were also in action on Sunday with Hungate Rovers Ladies travelling to play Pinchbeck United Ladies. A comfortable win for the visitors in the end as Hungate won for the 1st time this season, 6-0 the winning margin.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Haverhill Rovers Ladies maintain a 3 point lead at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South with an away victory on Sunday as the top 3 all picked up another 3 points. Haverhill Rovers were up against Isleham United Ladies. Top scorer, Joeli Kirby now has 15 goals for the season as she scored a further 3 goals on Sunday. Kayleigh Nolan, Siobhan White and Elicia Cooper all on target too in a 6-1 win. Nicole Bailey with the Isleham goal.
St Ives Town Ladies Development in 2nd place were at home on Sunday hosting bottom side Burwell Tigers Ladies, A brace from Frances Chapman along with goals from Jade Carpenter, Connie Liddiard and Leah Culpin her 1st for the club securing a 6-1 victory. Elisa Heinamaa scoring for Burwell Tigers.
6 goals to scored for the winning side in the other game from the Championship South with 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC travelling to Wimblington to play Park Ladies, a disappointing afternoon for the hosts as Cambridge Rangers hit them for 6 Vanessa Martinez Ramos scoring twice to open her goals account for the season. Jaclyn Scafide also getting on the scoresheet for the 1st time this season, with Robyn Barlow and Sharne Southgate both getting a goal each moving onto 7 and 8 goals respectfully, an own goal too seeing the visitors win 6-2.
League Cup weekend in the Beds & Herts Women’s league, 8 ties in the 2nd Round of the competition six played this Sunday. Northwood Ladies v Royston Town Ladies Development scheduled for this coming Sunday. Houghton Athletic Ladies through to the quarter finals awarded the home win against Welwyn Pegasus Azures.
Holders St Albans Ladies progress comfortably through to the last 8 with a home win against Division Three side, Biggleswade United Ladies on Sunday. Michaela Johnson scoring the opening goal for St Albans on 17 minutes. Two quick fire goals from Jessica McNamara and Ellen Slater midway through the 1st half putting St Albans 3-0 up, McNamara scoring again late in the 1st half to see the hosting 4-0 to the good. Eleanor Lovelock striking early in the 2nd half for St Albans 5th goal. McNamara went on to compete her hat-trick before scoring a 4th 15 minutes from time. Johnson getting her 2nd of the game with the clock moving into the last 10 minutes. Slater two claiming a brace as she completed a 9-0 scoreline with 3 minutes left to play.
The leaders of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One were away in the 2nd Round of the League Cup taking on the leaders of Division Three, Langford Ladies. A narrow win seeing the higher league side progress, goals from Katherine Calvert and Janiece Allen securing a 2-1 win for the Sapphires, Chloe Scott scoring for Langford.
A strong 2nd half performance saw Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies advance to the last 8 of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup as they overcame fellow Division One side Sharnbrook WFC at home in the 2nd Round. Natasha McConville scoring in the 10th minute for Hemel Hempstead went on score twice more in the last 15 minutes to seal a hat-trick. Charlotte Ross scoring for the 1st time this season in the 67th minute, the 5th Hemel Hempstead goal coming in the final minute Bianca Hedgecock also getting her 1st goal of the season. 5-1 the final score, Jackie Dodds on the scoresheet for Sharnbrook.
Division Two side, Letchworth Garden City Ladies were at home in the 2nd Round of the League Cup taking on Division One opponents, Sherrardswood Ladies, the tie going all the way having to be decided on penalties. Laurie Marris with the early goal to put Sherrardswood into the lead, Katy Jones adding a 2nd goal for the visitors in the 65th minute. Letchworth getting 2 goals themselves through Emily Jamieson and Tayla Murray taking the tie into extra-time. The back of the net remaining intact in the extra half-hour the game to be settled on penalty kicks, Letchworth advancing to the last 8 of the competition with a 5-4 win.
Hitchin Belles are also through to the last 8 of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup with a home win against fellow Division Two side Bedford Ladies Development in the 2nd Round this Sunday. Amy Jack scoring twice to move onto 7 goals for the season, also on 7 goals for the season is Charlotte Peters as she scored against Bedford. Whilst Emma Wells and Chloe Keller were both on target with their 1st goals of the season. Hitchin Belles winning 5-1.
One all Division Three tie in the 2nd Round of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup with AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. A 100% start to the league the visitors kept that record in the cup, 3 players netting a brace with Chloe Urbanowicz, Zara Garrard and Katie Hay all getting 2, a brace of own goals too unfortunately for Bedwell as they were defeated 8-2, Rachael Jones and Leah Tomlin with their goals.
The quarter final draw of the League Cup already made the 4 ties scheduled to be played Sunday 2nd December are as follows:-
St Albans Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies v Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires
Northwood Ladies or Royston Town Ladies Development v Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies
Hitchin Belles v Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One league game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday with league leaders Hitchin Town Ladies at home taking on Watton Ladies. Emma Chaffey captaining Hitchin Town scoring twice in the game 1 from the penalty spot with 3 players finding the back of the net for their 1st goals of the season, Natalie Thompson, Hayley Watson and Robyn Wilfort. The 5-0 win for Hitchin Town seeing them open up a 7 point lead at the top of the Division Two table.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday. AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves climb up to 3rd in the table as they won away from home to keep up their unbeaten start. Were taking on Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses who themselves had started with 2 wins from 2. Their 100% winning start ended by Bianca Vassell as she scored all of the goals for AFC Dunstable as they ran out 5-2 winners. Georgia Payne and Jade Matthews with her 1st of the season scoring for Woburn & Wavendon.
A first ever league win for Kempston Rovers Ladies this Sunday coming at the 5th attempt at home to fellow newcomers Stotfold Juniors Ladies, 3rd at the start of the day. A brace from both Chelsea Rose Jeffery and Sabrina Stramaglia seeing Kempston Rovers celebrate a 4-1 win at the final whistle. Sophie Norman scoring for Stotfold her 5th goal of the season.
Leigh Ramblers Ladies winning run continues as they make it 6 in a row since an opening day defeat to join leaders Frontiers Ladies on 18 points at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Their latest win coming at home on Sunday against fellow promoted side Southend United Ladies. A 2-1 lead for Leigh Ramblers at half-time they went on to find the back of the net for a further 2 goals in the 2nd half to win the game 4-1. Amy Jacobs scoring a brace their were goals too for Rebecca Dalgarno and Kate Newton. Ra Toovey with the 1st half goal for Southend.
Harlow Town Ladies Development continue to consolidate 3rd position in the Premier Division table winning for the 4th time in the league this Sunday, along with Frontiers remain unbeaten in the league too a strong 1st half performance at home taking on bottom side Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves, Harlow holding a 5-1 lead a further goal added in the 2nd period seeing them win 6-1. Ellie Nicholls scoring twice their were goals too for Hannah Smith, Lucy Edmeades and Tasmin Turner, with Evie Anderson scoring her 1st goal for Harlow. Lauren Knight with the 37th minute goal for Brentwood.
A gap down to 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies and defeat on the road sees the side behind them close the gap. Chelmsford were taking on Collier Row Tigers who had a slow start to their season 1 point from their opening 3 games a 1st win of the campaign coming last Sunday, made it back to back wins to climb into 5th spot. Sarah Finch and Laura Bunton both on the scoresheet with 2 goals each, with Helen Moreira also getting a goal her 1st of the season in a 5-2 win. Lisa Overall with both of the goals for Chelmsford.
Silver End United Ladies also climb the Premier Division table joining Collier Row Tigers on 7 points with victory on the road this Sunday against Corringham Cosmos. Stephanie A’Len scoring twice getting off the mark this season, 1st goals of the season too for Ella Toovey and Angela Holden in a 4-0 win.
Silver End United Ladies, Stephanie A’Len
Essex Women’s Division One
Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies excellent start to the season continues as they chalked up their 7th straight win to maintain their 3 point lead at the top of Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday. Were at home taking on 4th placed Runwell Sorts Ladies, a goal in each half securing a 2-0 win for Dagenham & Redbridge, Jodie Barden scoring for the 6th time this season, Sade Walters was on target for her 1st goal.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves keep the pressure on the leaders as the 2nd placed side recorded their 6th league win of the season away from home on Sunday, a local derby taking on Hutton Ladies Reserves, a brace for Rachel Armstrong-Morris along with a goal for Anna-Maria Rains sealing a 3-1 victory for Billericay. Rachael Agombar getting the goal for Hutton.
A high scoring match between FC Clacton Ladies and Rayleigh Town Ladies with the sides contesting a 9 goal thriller, 3rd placed Rayleigh narrowly beating 5th placed Clacton. A home, Becky McDougall striking home 3 goals to claim a hat-trick for Clacton moving her onto 7 goals for the season, Lauren Lucas with her 1st of the season. 4 goals not enough however to get anything from the game as Rayleigh hit them for 5 up the other end. Jorja Victoria Killington scoring twice for Rayleigh her 1st goals of the season there was also a brace for Holly Gash with Francesca Browne also getting a goal. Rayleigh winning 5-4.
A first league win of the season for Island Ladies having joined the league this season, their first 3 points coming in their 5th match at home to Chigwell Ladies on Sunday. Island had only scored 2 goals in those previous 4 matches, were rampant in front of goal this time around scoring double figures! Chigwell scoring 3 times themselves through Emily Alexander and a brace from Victoria Parker, Island went crazy up the other end, Jess Bowen scoring a hat-trick. Everyone else getting their 1st goals in Division One for Island, Rebecca Hopkins also celebrating a hat-trick. Both Ebonnie Williams and Elizabeth Clarke scored 2 a piece with Georgia Holdaway also opening her account in an 11-3 win.
A first point of the season too for another league newcomer, Belhus Ladies, themselves suffering some heavy defeats at the start of life in Division One are finally off the mark earning a point at home on Sunday against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. 1st goals of the season for Bethany Murray and Hayley Freeman seeing Belhus draw 2-2 with Chelmsford City their goals scored by Emily Kendle and Fern Elder both again celebrating their 1st goals of the season.
A big win away from home on Sunday see’s Thorpe United Ladies open up a 7 point lead at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One. 6 wins from 7 games now were at Beccles Town Ladies. A good 1st half performance seeing Thorpe leading 4-0 went on to add two more goals 2nd half to seal a 6-0 result. Chloe Young scoring her 1st goals of the season from Thorpe completing a hat-trick. Victoria McNorton also on target with two goals her first strikes of the season with captain, Rebekah Lake also getting on the scoresheet.
Losing away to Thorpe last weekend their 1st defeat of the season, 2nd placed Aylsham Ladies were on the road again this Sunday taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Amber Mayhew and Hannah Sturman scoring for the visitors Aylsham, Wymondham responding with two goals of their own to see the points shared in a 2-2 draw.
That 1st elusive win of the season came last Sunday for Sprowston Athletic Ladies, following promotion to Division One, a 4-0 home win against Bungay Town Ladies. Scored 4 at home again this Sunday to record a 2nd successive win, albeit they were run much closer by opponents, 3rd placed Gorleston FC Ladies. The visitors taking an early lead, Sprowston getting back on level terms a shot from outside the box bringing a goal for Rachel Bussey. Gorleston retaking the lead just before the half-time whistle. Katie Fray heading home from a corner kick saw Sprowston draw level again early in the 2nd half. The home side going on to take the lead in the 70th minute Rebecca Kirby making it 3-2 with her first goal of the season. A dramatic final 5 minutes saw Gorleston get it back to 3-3 only to concede straight from the restart Melissa Belsey with the shot to make it 4-3 an win the game for Sprowston, Just 5 points separate the sides placed 2nd to 6th.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
New leaders in Norfolk Women’s Division Two after Sunday’s results with Fakenham Town Ladies not in action 2nd placed Taverham United Women took full advantage maintaining their unbeaten start with a 6th straight win to move into top position. Taverham were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies on Sunday. Goals for Caitlyn Arnup, Chloe Hall, Laura Jones and Rebecca Sutton seeing Taverham score 4 times to claim the 3 points with a 4-2 victory. Thetford Town’s goalscorers, Shannon Richardson and Laura Martins.
A big win away from home on Sunday sees Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies climb up to 3rd in the Division Two table, their opponents Horsford Women who came into the game off the back of their 1st ever league win, back to earth with a bump this Sunday, Bure Valley scoring plenty of goals this season claimed a 2nd double figure win of the season. Kiera Brown and Charlie Cooper both scoring hat-tricks have 25 goals between them now. Carrie Last and Anya Sadler both hitting a brace, their were goals to for Juliette Kelly and Molly Ferguson, the final score 12-0.
Tavern Ladies slip to 4th in the Division Two after they drew away from home with 5th placed Long Stratton Ladies on Sunday. A high scoring contest between the sides as they shared 8 goals between them. Tavern with the lead at the half-time interval 3-1 up, Long Stratton coming back 2nd half went on to take a 4-3 lead themselves before Tavern hit back late on to level the scores a 4-4. Katie Hart-Copsey with a brace for Tavern, Atlanta Griffith and Rianna Stott also on target with a goal. Emily Watts netting twice for Long Stratton their other goals scored by Samantha Walker and Nadia Child.
A 3rd win of the season sees Gorleston Rangers Ladies over haul this Sunday’s opponents Freethorpe Ladies to move into the top half of the Division Two table. At home goals from Chloe Ashton, Abbie Pogmore and Zoe Waite secured a 3-1 win for Gorleston. Robyn Steele scoring for Freethorpe.
Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies were playing just their 2nd league game of the season Difficulties getting a side early on their previous fixture resulting in a narrow defeat they were on the right end of the result this time around. Hosting Thetford side, Bulldogs Ladies the sides were drawing 1-1 at half-time. Kirkley & Pakefield finding the winning goal in the 2nd half to win 2-1 and earn their 1st points of the season. Ineta Omeleviciute scoring the goal for Bulldogs.
It remains neck and neck at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division with defending Champion’s East Bergholt United Ladies and 2nd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies keeping up their 100% winning starts to the season 7 each now both on 21 points. East Bergholt with the superior goal difference some big scorelines this season this Sunday saw their closest result of the season a 2nd half winner enough to see them to victory away from home as they took on Woodbridge Town Ladies. A goal from Jemma Liverpool seeing Woodbridge drawing 1-1 at half-time. Stacey Teager and Elena Nitsche on target with a goal in either half enough to claim the 3 points keep East Bergholt out in front.
Brantham Athletic at home to University of Suffolk Women on Sunday, chipped away at the leaders superior goal difference with their biggest win of the season. Kirsten Hutchings and Jodie Sharp both scoring a hat-trick for Brantham. Danielle Harvey and captain Lucy Dunnett also on target with a brace each, Sophie Crabtree and Carra Marie Seeley also getting a goal each whilst Merlin Watson scored her 1st goal for Brantham in a 13-1 victory to keep up their 100% winning start to the season.
It was a massive win on the road on Sunday for Needham Market Women as they kept up the pressure on the leading pair 3 points back in 3rd spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were at fellow newcomers Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves bottom without a point on the board so far this season. Francesca Rainbird top scoring for Needham market in the match with 5 goals. Lois Balfour scoring 4. Abbie Wilkinson with a hat-trick. Jemma Wessels and Nicola Henderson with a brace a piece. Isabel Chaplin and Milly Carter with a goal each whilst their was a 1st Needham Market goal for 4 players, Maria Smith, Megan Stock, Ria Delves and manager Freya Louis in a crushing 22-0 result. A big win for Needham Market, was positive to see after the game to the spirit and togetherness show by Haverhill this is very much a fledgling league and they are a fledgling side that will carry them through a tough start.
A goal from Michelle Stanborough gave Leiston St Margarets Ladies a first half lead on Sunday away to 4th placed Alresford Colne Ladies. The hosts though undefeated since the opening day of the season came back 2nd half to secure a point drawing 1-1 with Jo Harvey scoring her 7th goal of the season.
A draw for Alresford Colne Rangers seeing them drop a place as victory at home for Walsham Le Willows Ladies saw them move up to 4th spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division just the one defeat themselves were taking on Coplestonians Ladies on Sunday. Laura Brame scoring a hat-trick has 8 goals for the season now from 5 appearances. Julie Brind, Katie Grimwood and Norma Locker also on target with a goal each in a 6-1 win. Sophie Maul with her 1st goal for Coplestonians.
A first ever league win at the weekend for Brettvale Ladies playing their 7th game of the season were at home to fellow newcomers Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Kelly Hannington’s goal struck in the 1st half the difference as Brettvale defended to celebrate at the final whistle.
