A packed Sunday of league fixtures across all three divisions in the Beds and Herts Women’s Football League. The league changing in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One as the top two drew against each other. Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires benefiting as they won the 3 points at home at the weekend to return to the top of the table. Were taking on Garston Ladies 2nd XI. Janiece Allen having previously scored plenty of goals for Welwyn Pegasus’ sister club the Azures scoring 4 against Garston on Sunday. Takes her to 17 for 11 appearances this season. Chemise Huitson also finding the back of the net for her 9th goal of the season as Welwyn Pegasus won the game 5-2 . Maddie Gordon and Charley Kelsey with the goals for Garston who slip to the foot of the Division One table, have played just 6 league games to date.
Northwood Ladies went into the weekend narrowly leading Beds & Herts Division One were away to 2nd placed Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies this Sunday. Northwood looking for a positive result after suffering defeat last weekend with a depleted squad, dug deep against Hemel Hempstead to ear a point Holly Gilder scoring twice. Bianca Hedgecock and Charlene Turturici-Clarke with the goals for Hemel Hempstead who still have games in hand on all the other title challengers in Division One.
Incredibly tight still in the league with just 3 points between the leaders and 5th placed Houghton Athletic Ladies. St Albans Ladies the defending champions sandwiching themselves into 3rd now between Northwood and Hemel Hempstead all on 20 points as they secured the 3 points away to Sharnbrook WFC on Sunday. Eleanor Lovelock with a goal midway through the 1st half putting St Albans into the lead doubled the advantage just past the hour the win secured in the final 5 minutes with Sophie Hull on target to make it 3-0. Lovelock completing her hat-trick in the 89th minute, her 12th of the season sealing a 4-0 win.
A tough season all round so far for the Garston sides in Division One, Garston Ladies 1st team at home to fellow strugglers Sherrardswood Ladies this Sunday both sides earning a point, enough to move Garston’s 1st team off the bottom. Emma Trill scoring twice for Garston with Jane Hales also on target for a goal. A point for Sherrardswood Rhiana Rose scoring twice for the visitors one a penalty, with Francesca Novelli finding the back of the net in the 88th minute.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Hitchin Belles have a two week break now form the league, they go into it in good form with a 6 point lead at the top of the Division Two table. Just the one league defeat to date chalked up an 11th win of the season this Sunday at home to Evergreen Ladies. Leading 1-0 at the half-time interval Hitchin Belles going on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win 3-0. Keira How scoring her 11th of the campaign. Top scorer Katie White firing in her 18th of the season and a 3rd of the season for Bonnita Woodward the goalscorers for Hitchin Belles.
Local rivals Hitchin Town Ladies in 2nd position in Division Two have two games in hand on Hitchin Belles. This weekend saw their local rivals extend their lead at the top as they had to settle for a point away to 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies Development on Sunday. The visitors taking the lead in a battling encounter on 27 minutes captain Emma Chaffey there to nod home after Rebecca Day’s shot struck the crossbar. Royston pushing for a reply 2nd half equalising through Sammy Tinsley in the 67th minute. Hitchin working hard in defence to prevent the hosts getting another, 11 the final score.
The bottom two met in the league on Sunday with Evergreen Eagles and Welwyn Pegasus Azures having 4 points each going into the game. Christie Brewer winning the game for Evergreen as she scored a hat-trick for the hosts in a 3-2 win, Samantha Coughlan with her first of the season with a goal in the first half for Welwyn, Fiona Davies striking late in injury time with the 2nd goal.
Bedford Ladies Development also winning at home at the weekend were hosting Watton Ladies. A good result winning 4-0 seeing them win for just the 2nd time in Division Two.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
4 games played too in beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. A 9th straight league win for AFC Dunstable Ladies Development this Sunday as they travelled to play Kempston Rovers Ladies. Lauren Brooker scoring in the 6th minute and a goal from Holly Wilks saw Dunstable into a 2-0 half-time lead. The rest of the goals were saved for the final 6 minutes of the match with Nicola Hollick scoring to put the visiting side 3-0 up in the 84th minute. Kempston Rovers struck back immediately with Chelsea Jeffery breaching Dunstable’s defence for a goal. Dunstable responding by going straight up the other end to restore their 3 goal cushion Wilks with her 2nd of the game the final score 5-1 with top scorer Bianca Vassell adding another goal to her tally in the final minute.
Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses continue to keep the pressure on their Bedfordshire rivals at the top of Division Three a point behind in 2nd they won big at home on Sunday against Buntingford Town Ladies who were only playing for the 2nd time in 2019 their last game back on the 6th January. Woburn & Wavendon winning with a double figure scoreline. Top scorer Giselle Randall finding the back of the net for 4 goals moves to 18 for the season. Georgia Payne getting a hat-trick too in the match, with Laura Sephton on target for a brace with Molly Churchill also amongst the goalscorers with her 1st of the season. Woburn & Wavendon winning 10-1.
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies lay in 3rd position in Division Three and will be hoping either of the top two slip up if they wish to close the 5 point gap to the top. Were away this Sunday taking on Biggleswade United Ladies. Chloe Urbanowicz on target scoring her 17th of the season for Kempston, there were goals to for Bex Cray and Zara Garrad who move onto 14 and 11 respectfully and a goal for Taylor Kingston in a 4-1 victory to take the visitors to 23 points from 10 played. Karen Clark with the Biggleswade goal.
A 3-3 draw between Bedwell Rangers Ladies and Stotfold Juniors Ladies in The Chris Renshaw Cup last weekend. Bedwell missing out on penalties in the finish the two sides meet again this Sunday at Bedwell in the league, the hosts again scoring 3 with Rachel Young scoring along with two for Isabella Townsend her 1st goals of the season. It wasn’t enough unfortunately for Bedwell to get anything from the game as Stotfold secured the win scoring 4 against them.
Frontiers Ladies beat Premier Division leaders Leigh Ramblers last time out to close the gap to a point, since awarded a home win, moved above them, and with Leigh Ramblers not in action this Sunday had the chance to go further ahead as they hosted 3rd placed side Harlow Town Ladies Development. A local derby, Harlow’s young side have been unlucky with injuries, a good test for both sides. Frontiers coming out on top to win the 3 points and go 5 points clear at the top of the table. Anna Freeman scoring a brace, with a goal for Charley Sandford in a 3-0 win. Harlow losing for just the 2nd time in the league this season.
That defeat allowing 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies to move level on points with Harlow as they secured the 3 points at home to Silver End United Ladies on Sunday. Tyler Christou getting her 1st goal since rejoining the club, Aimee Gannon also on target for Chelmsford for her 1st goal of the season scoring from the penalty spot. Chelmsford winning 2-0.
5th placed Collier Row Tigers are just two points behind Harlow & Chelmsford with games in hand on both. Were on the road this Sunday playing bottom side Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. A close contest between the sides Collier Row Tigers edging the result with a 3-2 win. Emily Dempsey scoring her 8th goal of the season, Helen Moreira also celebrating a goal along with a 1st of the season for Fran Pridie. Brentwood remain without a point at the bottom of the Premier Division their goals from Lauren Knight plus an own goal.
A hat-trick from Emily Pert helped to secure the home win for Southend United Ladies on Sunday in their Premier Division game with Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Pert with 12 now for the season. Lily Halliday also getting a goal for Southend, with Amber Popham and Louise Lawrence scoring for the first time this season in a 6-1 victory. Jo Smeaton the goalscorer for Beacon Hill Rovers.
Essex Women’s Division One
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves maintain their 6 point lead at the top of the Essex Women’s Division One table with their 15th league win of the season this Sunday away to FC Clacton Ladies. Have lost just the once this season fielded the bare 11 this Sunday, it was enough to secure the 3 points with 2 goals scored without reply, a 4th goal of the season each for Anna-Maria Rains and Kelsey Smith.
Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in 2nd place in the Essex Women’s Division One table also picked up another 3 point haul this Sunday away from home against Belhus Ladies. Both Grace Tebb-Reading and Juliet Thomas completing a hat-trick in the game for the visitors, Jodie Barden also getting a goal as well as a first of the season for Gracei Robinson in an 8-1 victory. Danni Jennings with her 11th of the season on target for Belhus.
8-1 was also the winning score at home for 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies this Sunday in their league match with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. Captain Isabella Wallings getting another goal to move to 41 for the season for Rayleigh. Holly Gash top scoring in the game with a hat-trick moves onto 18 for the season. 18 goals to for Eleasha Reeves now as she chalked up a brace on Sunday. There was also a brace for new signing Nancy Bulter making her first start for Rayleigh netting two goals on her debut. Rebecca Dalgarno with the goal for Leigh Ramblers. Rayleigh remain 4th some 15 points behind 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge but have a total of 6 games in hand.
Runwell Sports Ladies are 5th in the Division One table were at home this Sunday taking on Chigwell Ladies the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Runwell Sports getting the better of their opponents in the 2nd half winning the game 4-2. Runwell Sports’ goals scored by Victoria Martin and Autumn Ranger. Aaryanna Simonelli with a goal too the clubs top goalscorer now with 17 for the season, whilst it was a 1st goal of the season for Anna Winfield. Jessica MacNab with both the goals for Chigwell.
Plenty of goals too in the final match from Essex with bottom sides meeting Island Ladies at home to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves on Sunday in Division One. 8 goals shared between them the pair taking a point each from the game drawing 4-4 at the final whistle. Charlotte Stelmaszyk with a brace for Chelmsford, Rebecca Lucy also on the scoresheet with Jemma Debrick scoring her 1st Chelmsford goal. Olivia McDonnell getting her first goal of the season for Island this Sunday on the scoresheet along with Jess Bowen, Ebonnie Williams and Sarah McDonnell.
A lovely weekend for football in Cambridgeshire as it was across the whole of the country. The Women’s League Cup competition reaching the knockout stages with 3 of the 4 quarter finals taking place this weekend. The 8 sides coming through the group stages finishing 1st or 2nd in their group to progress a number of Championship sides amongst the last 8.
Ketton Ladies with a 100% record leading the Championship North were away this Sunday a tough challenge in the League Cup were taking on Premiership side Cambridge City Ladies Development. Ketton are full of confidence right now, Cambridge City keen to lift some silverware this season vying for the title in their own league. It turned out to be a close game with just a single goal settling it. Bella Simmons with the all important goal to send Cambridge City Ladies into the last 4 of the competition.
An all Premiership clash saw March Town Ladies at home to Cambridge University Women in the quarter finals of the League Cup this Sunday. Nothing to separate the sides at half-time with the scores level at 1-1. Emma Searle with her 7th of the season scoring for March. Cambridge University going on to score two more goals in the 2nd period to win the game 3-1 to advance into the semi-finals. Amanda Wainwright on target for her 7th of the season with Lu Liu also on the scoresheet along with a first goal for the club for Freja Ekman.
In the other League Cup quarter final match played this weekend it was raining goals between Championship South leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies and Wisbech Town Ladies fighting with Ketton Ladies for the Championship North title. Wisbech struggling with players injured playing with 11 sometimes 10 dug deep against Haverhill the sides drawing 3-3 after 90 minutes, the extra-time that followed no less dramatic with a further 6 goals scored. Wisbech edging Haverhill out in the dramatic encounter winning through to the semi-finals with a 7-5 victory. Sophie Swinden finding the back of the net for 4 goals, Leah Hall, Chloe Stanborough and captain Faye Kowalewsky also getting a goal each. Joeli Kirby, Haverhill’s top scorer netting a brace, along with captain Amy Evans with Julie Brown also scoring.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One other cup game playing in the county this Sunday saw Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds Ladies at home playing Burwell Tigers Ladies from the Championship South in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup. A brace each for Marie Stubbings and Sharon Pinner as well as a goal for Katie Luddy seeing Fulbourn ease through to the next round with a 5-1 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One league game played in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with 3rd placed side Cardea Ladies travelling to play Hungate Rovers Ladies. Captain Laura Rudd putting the visitors into the lead inside 5 minutes. Hungate coming back to level the scores 10 minutes later. Cardea retaking the lead in the final minute of the 1st half with Jessica O’Sullivan scoring. A good start to the 2nd half saw Cardea go 3-1 up with Nicola Anderson getting on the scoresheet. Hungate pulled it back to 3-2 with 53 minutes played, Cardea soon regaining their 2 goal lead with Courtney Coles making her 1st start making it 4-2. Hungate ensuring a nervy finish to the game as they got it back to 4-3 with 15 minutes left Cardea holding on for the win and 3 points a 2nd successive league win seeing them move 4 points clear of 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One game played too in the Championship South, which sees Cambridge Rangers WFC up to 2nd in the table going 3 points clear of St Ives Town Development with a 4th successive league win. Were at home taking on Isleham United Ladies for the 2nd successive week. A 5-1 win last weekend, an even better scoreline this weekend the 3 points won courtesy of an 8-0 result. Lauren Lock with one goal to her name before the game putting the ball past the keeper for 4 goals this Sunday. A hat-trick too for Vanessa Martinez with Zoe Newberg also on the scoresheet celebrating her first Cambridge Rangers goal.
The weather put pay to the Suffolk Women’s League Cup semi-finals a fortnight ago, no chance this weekend with glorious weather it was a strong line-up in the last 4 of the competition with the top 4 in the league itself reaching the semi-finals.
League leaders East Bergholt United Ladies with a 100% record at the top were away taking on 4th placed Brantham Athletic Ladies. East Bergholt the League Cup holders looking to reach the final for the 3rd successive season.Tasted defeat for the 1st time this season last weekend losing to Needham Market Women in the County Cup quarter finals. It was another close game this weekend against Brantham. Goals from Jessica Clark, Charlotte McGrath and top scorer Annie Northwood securing a 3-1 victory for East Bergholt to see them into the final.
A close game too in the other Suffolk Women’s League Cup semi-final between to sides looking to reach it for the first time 2nd placed Needham Market Women away to 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers. Needham Market going into the game on a high after their County Cup success last weekend, Alresford proving a tough nut to crack the sides going in goalless at the break. Needham Market getting the break through in the 2nd period Lois Balfour with her 15th of the season and Amber Sparkes netting her 16th goal of the campaign seeing Needham market win the game 2-0 to reach a final in their debut season in women’s football.
Suffolk Women’s Division
There were also two league matches played this Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division and the results see another new side nudge there way into the top 4 of the table. It was a 4th straight league win with 5 games unbeaten overall for Woodbridge Town Ladies. Were at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at the weekend. A slender 1-0 lead at half-time the hosts went on to score 3 more in the 2nd half to win the game 4-0 and move ahead of Brantham Athletic Ladies. Top scorer Jenna Liverpool scoring her 13th goal of the season for Woodbridge, Sophie Crane was also on target with her 7th. Natasha Williams and Kirsten Spooner both getting a goal a piece.
Another new name in the league enjoying a good run of form in 2019 are Brettvale Ladies. Strengthening their squad recently. Were at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies on Sunday. A competitive game between the sides. Olivia Hodges and Norma Locker finding the back of the net for Walsham Le Willows, Brettvale edging them out scoring 3 up the other end at the final whistle. 3-2 to Brettvale their 4th win of the season.
All about the Cup this weekend in Norfolk with both the semi-finals of the Ladies League Cup & quarter finals of the Plate competition taking place this Sunday.
Sprowston Lades are the current League Plate holders winning their 1st piece of silverware in women’s football last season. That and a runners-up position in Division One. This season have climbed into 2nd place in the Division One table and through to the last 4 of the League Cup. Were drawn away in the semi-finals to Division Two leaders Taverham United Women, a young side very much in the mould of Sprowston, unbeaten in their debut season in woman’s football. Came up against a Sprowston side that is beginning to find a bit of form and scoring plenty of goals too. Top scorer Victoria Leyer scoring 4 goals in the match moving onto 25 for the season two more than she scored in the whole of last season. Abby Hutchin also claiming a hat-trick in the semi-final for Sprowston has 9 now for the campaign with captain Calista Tink also finding the back of the net for a goal in an 8-1 win to see Sprowston confidently into the League Cup Final.
Sprowston’s opponents in the League Cup Final will be Division Two side Tavern Ladies after the Dereham based side pulled of something of an upset by knocking out Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies in this Sunday’s semi-final game. The game at Scarning playing field Tavern Ladies home pitch (and once home to the deadliest slide in the county, but I was 6-years-old I loved it!) Tavern in good form going into the game scoring plenty of goals Katie Hart-Copsey with 35 from 11 before kick-off. Thorpe missing several through injury with others unavailable. The scores level at the break with both sides scoring 1-1 Tavern went on to snatch themselves a winning goal and reach their first ever final, Hart-Copsey with her 36th of the season and Emily Bell with her first seeing the Division Two side cause the upset. Eloise Peek on target for Thorpe who crashed out of their 2nd cup semi-final in as many weeks.
Katie Hart-Copsey in prolific form for Tavern Ladies this season
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
The Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition at the quarter finals stage, the last 8 throwing up 4, Division One versus Division Two ties with the Division One sides all coming out on top to book their place in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday.
The Beccles Town Ladies squad were well rested going into their home quarter final tie against Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday having not played a competitve match since the middle of December! This has given them a chance to get a few back from injury and they got 2019 off to a winning start with a 4-0 win to book their place in the semi-finals with Lucy Robbens netting twice along with goals from Megan Vincent and a first of the season for Victoria Ottey. The game ending on a sad note abandoned through injury following a collision between Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce and Bulldogs captain Emma Johnson, wishing both players all the best for a full and speedy recovery.
*NB – Have been informed due to this game being abandoned due to the above incident the game between Beccles Town and Bulldogs Ladies will now be replayed a date to be set in due course.
Long Stratton Women from Division Two were in good form going into their quarter final tie at home to Aylsham Ladies on Sunday. The Division One side in need of a positive start after a difficult beginning to 2019, got it with goals from Amber Mayhew and Vicky Lubbock plus first Aylsham goal for both Katrina Carman and Emma Allsopp in a 4-1 victory to see the Division One side reach the last 4 of the Plate.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies won 6-1 away to Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies last Sunday to book their place in the quarter finals of the Ladies Plate competition. This Sunday were away once again taking on Division Two opponents, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Melissa Belsey scoring her 1st ever hat-trick, along with goals from Rachel Bussey and a 1st of the season for Nicole Read seeing Sprowston Athletic reach the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-1 win.
Also reaching the last 4 of the Ladies League Plate competition are Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Were away to Division Two side Thetford Town Ladies in the quarter finals. Sally Hammerton moving into double figures for the season for Wymondham scoring 5 goals in the match. Wymondham comfortably winning with Chelsea Pettifer and Hannah Claughton also getting a goal each along with Gabriella Stone getting her 1st goal of the season in an 8-0 win.
Cambridge City Ladies strengthen their grip at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division as they open up a 9 point lead at the top of the table with victory at home to 2nd placed Acle United Women on Sunday. The Norfolk making the journey needing to close the six point gap their opponents had opened up if they wanted to keep their own title ambititions alive. The Norfolk side coming up against a side that has dropped just 2 league points to date, Cambridge City have a strong side with goal throughout the attack, Shannon Shaw starting getting a goal Cambridge City’s other goalscorers starting on the bench with Sarah Mosley, Carla Penny & Bella Simmons all adding to their tally’s with a goal a piece in a 4-0 win.
A weekend off for 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies, it was an opportunity for the 4th & 5th placed sides Wymondham Town Ladies & Peterborough Northern Star Ladies to close the gap as they met at the Branch Bros Stadium on Sunday. Women’s Football East was there too to watch the encounter. Wymondham reaching their 3rd successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final last weekend travelling to Peterborough. Northern Star Ladies losing just once on the opening day have games in hand on the sides above. Were without a few this Sunday with just the bare 11 available. Hannah Waters with a chance to put Wymondham into the lead first half. Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan twice denying Peterborough.
Goalless at half-time Peterborough hit the ground running 2nd half Cassie Steward with two well taken strikes putting the hosts into a 2-0 inside 55 minutes. Soon after a coming together and subsequent fall saw Peterborough attacker Georgia Coulson fall and suffer a nasty wrist injury. A lengthy delay followed as she received on the pitch treatment. A fractured wrist suffered Peterborough with no replacement continuing with 10 almost half an hour later. Took a while for both sides to settle, Peterborough not sitting back on their lead tried to get out attack take the game to Wymondham, their top scorer Laura Nicholls played into a shooting position top of the area by Mollie O’Callaghan fired home to reduce the deficit then with the clock running down Hannah Waters running in behind was pulled down inside the Peterborough box, Nicholls with a powerful penalty levelling the scores with her 2nd of the game. The points shared.
Bedford Ladies were at home to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies on Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division 6th & 7th both sides with 21 points going into the game. A 100% winning record for Bedford in all competitions since December their good form continued this weekend as they won the match 2-0 scoring a goal in each half to move 3 points clear of their opponents. Lauren Murray with her 4th goal in 3 appearances for Bedford and Joanne Makin in her 1st start of the season scoring the goals.
At last it’s a win for Haringey Borough Women, 3 points on the board winning at home to fellow strugglers AFC Dunstable Ladies this Sunday. Has been a tough period for the club following a tough season in the FAWNL after losing a good portion of their promotion winning squad the new side has had a difficult baptism have stuck together and can finally celebrate a league win and 3 points, climb off the bottom of the Premier Division table too. AFC Dunstable Ladies travelling with a reduced squad again just the bare 11. Battled well scoring twice in the game with Stephanie Fisher netting her 1st of the season and Alex Chitwell making her debut also scoring. Haringey Borough scoring twice as many up the other end to win the game, Brooke Hills making her 1st start scoring a goal with Seren Ahmet, Aaliyah Boyea & Sandeep Tak all celebrating a goal in a 4-2 win.
ERWFL Division One
St Ives Town Ladies open up a 7 point lead at the top of ERWFL Division One the newly promoted side at home to defending champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves this Sunday. St Ives unbeaten since joining the league this season coming out on top in a competitve game with Stevenage, St Ives coming out on top to win their 12th game of the season 3-0 thanks to goals from top scorer Tierney Coulson, Georgia Stancombe and Harriet Ford.
Newmarket Town Ladies promoted along with St Ives Town Ladies from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership are also enjoying a great 1st season in the ERWFL up to 3rd in the table were at home on Sunday looking to consolidate their league position, knew they had a tough game ahead with Hertford Town Ladies the visitors unbeaten in their last 4 including draws with St Ives Town & 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Brooke Wickens charging down the ball opening the scoring in the 25th minute for Newmarket. Hertford pulling the scores level before half-time. Newmarket were awarded a penalty 10 minutes into the 2nd half Laura Bailey firing it home to put the hosts back into the lead. The 3 points secured in the final minute with Sarah O’Rourke put through on goal to see Newmarket win the game 3-1.
Fifth placed Hutton Ladies were away this Sunday up against Bishops Stortford Ladies in ERWFL Division One. A lively game against the bottom side that saw plenty of goals scored. Bishops Stortford able to name 3 subs for the game finding the back of the net for 3 goals with captain Broghan McHale netting a hat-trick. Hutton have Vicky Kinsman leading their line this season and she is closing in on 40 goals for the season already with another brace at the weekend. A brace too for Sally Appleton along with a goal for Kayleigh Franklin seeing Hutton run out 5-3 winners.
Elsewhere in Division One the points were shared on Sunday. Fresh from securing a place in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final, King’s Lynn Town Ladies travelled to Cambridgeshire at the weekend to play Histon Ladies. Georgia Day scoring for the hosts with Rochelle Woods on target for King’s Lynn with her 9th goal of the season in a 1-1 draw.
1-1 too between Lawford Ladies and Hatfield Peverel Ladies on Sunday in Division One. The hosts playing for 80 minutes with 10 players after Harriet Young was sent off. Ex-Lawford player Jasmine Cox scoring for Hatfield Peverel against her old club. Captain Daisy Canny netting her 14th of the season for Lawford, the points shared.
Perfect weather for the final weekend of February last year we had the Beast from the East this time around it was positively tropical in comparison with bright sunshine and warm temperatures far from the expected for this time of year and no one was complaining.
Sad news too with many clubs up and down the country pausing before their matches in memory of Jordan Dawes who passed away after losing her brief battle with liver cancer. The 18-year-old goalkeeper life all too short, touched many in that time, a great smile, a talented goalkeeper whose previous clubs include Charlton Athletic Women and Kent United. A life taken too soon rest in peace Jordan.
A tribute picture for Jordan Dawes produced by Kent Football United
FAWNL Cup
Plenty of action across all leagues this Sunday, we begin the action in the FAWNL. One remaining game to be played in the last 8 of the FAWNL Cup. Crawley Wasps Ladies still with a 100% league record leading the way in South East Division One travelling once again to play Coventry United Ladies, themselves with an unbeaten record laying 2nd in the Southern Premier Division. The two sides having met already one this season at the start of 2019 in the FA Women’s Cup, Crawley Wasps winning the game 2-1 to knock their higher league opponents out of the competition.
This Sunday’s quarter final tie no less competitive the dead lock broken with 37 minutes on the clock Kemina Webber who had already seen an effort ruled off for offside fed the ball inside the box and slotting home to make it 1-0. That the advantage for Crawley at the break. Coventry pushing for a reply early in the 2nd half, Beth Merrick getting the equaliser with a looping header back across the face of goal to make it 1-1 with nearly an hour played. Merrick coming close with a strike over the bar moments later. Crawley winning a corner up the other end Naomi Cole sending the ball long to the far post Darcey James with the header to send the ball back in and restore the visitors lead. Defending it was a repeat of the FA Cup game with Crawley winning 2-1 to reach the last 4 and will be at home to Bolton Wanderers Ladies this coming Sunday a place in the final for the winners.
FAWNL Plate
Like the FAWNL Cup their was one outstanding quarter final tie left in the Plate competition with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies at home taking on South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into the lead midway through the 1st half. The Southern Premier Division side getting themselves back on level terms before the break with Leanna Doyle putting Leah Cudone through on goal to make it 1-1. Both sides with chances 2nd half Keynsham rattling the woodwork, the game entering the final 20 minutes the visitors were awarded a free-kick 20 yards out scored to retake the lead. The clock rapidly running down Milton Keynes levelled the scores at the death to force the game into extra-time Amy Gooderham with the goal. The hosts coming close to winning the game in the extra period it remained 2-2 to head into a penalty shootout. 3-3 after the regulation 5 into sudden death, Emma Kirby saving for Milton Keynes. Alice Hughes scored to send them through 5-4. Milton Keynes at home to Liverpool Feds Women in the semi-finals this coming Sunday.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Six league wins in a row now for Cardiff City Ladies in the Southern Premier Division as the 3rd placed side won at home this Sunday in the process seeing league leaders Chichester City Ladies suffer back to back defeats. The damage done in the opening half hour the Welsh side getting themselves into a 3-0 lead with Emma Jones scoring a hat-trick. Her 1st on 6 minutes the 2nd quickly followed by the 3rd midway through the 1st half. Jess Lewry pulling it back to 3-1 late in the 1st half. That was how the scores remained going into the final 5 minutes, a 30 yard strike from Chloe Jones securing the win for Cardiff, despite Cherelle Khassel getting a goal for Chichester in the 88th minute. A 4-2 win for Cardiff in 3rd position leading the chasing pack close the gap to Chichester to 5 points with two games in hand.
Is a 3 way tie of 28 points in 3rd, 4th & 5th in the Southern Premier Division table with Oxford United Women another form side in 4th position 5 wins in a row in the league themselves now unbeaten in 7 to climb the table. Were at home to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, another close game a single goal winning the game coming from Florence Fyfe her 9th goal of the season seeing her become joint top scorer with Emily Allen winning the game 1-0 for Oxford.
Points dropped in recent games had seen Watford FC Ladies slip from 3rd to 5th. Have bounced back with an unbeaten run of 3 matches in the Southern Premier Division. 7 points collected in that time the latest 3 points coming away to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Watford coming back from trailing 1-0 at half-time to win the game 2-1 with a winning goal 6 minutes from time. Rebecca Mcgrother putting Loughborough 1-0 up in the 1st half. Helen Ward equalising for Watford 12 minutes into the 2nd half with her 17th goal of the season. The winner struck late on Alysha Stojko-Down scoring her first goal of the season to see the visitors return home with the 3 points.
A 7 goal thriller in the other game played in the Southern Premier Division at the weekend with 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Women travelling down to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Zoe Cunningham putting the hosts into the lead in the 12th minute the advantage short-lived with QPR levelling moments later through Jo Wilson. 3 minutes later QPR were in front themselves Wilson striking again to make it 2-1. Jessie Jones bringing it back to 2-2 for Plymouth on the half hour. 2-2 at half-time. Cunningham with her 2nd of the match putting Plymouth back into the lead in the 56th minute. The game entering the final 10 minutes Mollie Taylor extended the home sides lead to make it 4-2, but again QPR responded with a quick reply Wilson on target scoring her 3rd ad completing a hat-trick setting up a tense finish to the game Plymouth holding on however to win the game 4-3.
FAWNL South East Division One
4 games in South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps leading the way involved in the League Cup it was another opportunity for 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap on them to 4 points. Were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday. In need of the points themselves have a growing injury list despite that put in a good defensive display to keep thier opponents at bay, goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of saves. Hit the post up the other end Amy Josland with the strike. Billericay are scoring goals and have a number of prolific players in their side the Essex side getting in front on the hour Zoe Rushen finding the back of the net. It wasn’t until the final minute that the 3 points were secured Sam Pittuck with the strike to see the game won 2-0. Billericay have played 2 more than Crawley.
In 3rd position in the South East Division One table Actonians Ladies are now unbeaten in 8 games in all competitions. A long trip up to Norfolk this Sunday to take on Norwich City Ladies in the league. A lively start to the match with Carla Williams firing Actonians into a 5th minute lead. Norwich hitting back straight away with Chelsea Garrett firing home to make it 1-1 in the 7th minute. Alessandra Barreca has been Actonians main goal threat in recent seasons and her 19th strike of the season in the 21st minute saw the visitors leading 2-1 at half-time. Kate Parsons introduced to the action for Norwich in the 57th minute she levelled the scores at 2-2 with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Actonians were soon back in front Barreca with her 2nd of the match and 20th of the season scoring what would prove to be the winning.
Leyton Orient WFC had suffered 3 straight defeats in the league going into this Sunday’s away trip to Mildenhall Town FC to play Cambridge United Women. The hosts taking the lead through a fantastic 25 yard strike from Amber Cantwell. Sophie Le Marchand always a threat on the attack for Leyton Orient put in behind the defence levelling the scores before half-time. The visitors going on to win the game by a single goal scoring again in the 2nd half, Egle Trezzi in midfield playing the ball on for Suaila Cardoso Queni running across the back line top of the area slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. Leyton Orient up a place to 4th position.
Leyton Orient WFC’s Sophie Le Marchand
Luton Town Ladies had found themselves adrift at the bottom of the South East Division One table a tough season to date just 4 points on the board going into the week. Earned a useful point against a much improved Enfield Town Ladies with a battling 0-0 draw at Enfield on Wednesday night. This weekend were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies. The hosts enduring a run of 4 straight defeats in all competitions going into the game. Luton started well captain Zara Carroll firing home from a free-kick to put the visiting side 1-0 up inside 3 minutes. Dionne Manning rounding the keeper to make it 2-0 inside the opening 15 minutes. Manning with the assist on the half hour for substitute Remi Bains to score. 3-0 up at half-time. Katie Stanley pulling a goal back for Wimbledon midway through the 2nd half. Jess McKay found the bottom corner in the closing minutes to see Luton win the game 4-1 just their 2nd win of the season and close the gap to Denham it 2 points, both Stevenage and Cambridge in danger of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom now on 14 points each.
West along the A47 this Sunday afternoon for a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, 4th versus 5th with Wymondham Town Ladies travelling to play Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.
Both side new to the league this season, Peterborough Northern Star moving across from the East Midlands Regional Premier Division. Wymondham Town Ladies promoted as ERWFL Division One North Champions.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies now a fully integrated part of Peterborough Northern Star FC. One of the leading sides in Peterborough which has a very strong and growing women’s football scene. A new Reserves side into their 2nd season. A new challenge moving across the play in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL). Amongst the sides likely to challenge for the title itself before the season started have plated as high as the FAWNL. Currently in 5th have games in hand on the sides above. Have lost just one league game to date that on the opening day to current leaders and unbeaten Cambridge City Ladies.
Wymondham Town Ladies are doing very well following promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division. Up to 4th in the table and in a strong position to finish in the top half of the table in what is a strong league. Like their opponents have a Reserves side, and are one of the sides leading the way in women’s football in Norfolk. Scoring plenty of goals, 18-year-old Laura Nicholls has 34 already this season.
Both sides involved in the semi-finals of their various County Cup competitions last Sunday. Peterborough Northern Star narrowly losing to local rivals Peterborough United 2-1. Wymondham going all the way to penalties against fellow Premier Division side Acle United Women winning the shootout 5-4 to reach their 3rd successive final and will be hoping to retain the trophy they lifted for the 1st time in their history last season.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground is the Branch Bros Stadium. Situated in the north of Peterborough not far off the A47 itself. Set in a residential area has a community feel about it. A clubhouse leading out to the main pitch, two large sports fields either side. A snack bar serving hot and cold food and drinks. as for the weather SUMMER’S HERE! (Well in might be a bit premature) a lovely bright sunny and warm day in the final weekend of February. The coat can stay in the car, left my sunglasses at home needed them. The sun high over one end of the ground.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Frances Peeling, Larissa Frederick, Leah Barnes, Bronwyn Mulheron, Faith Horner, Emma Pollard, Chanade Henderson, Vicky Gallagher (C), Georgia Coulson & Cassie Steward.
Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Chardonnay Johnston, Summer Ward, Kayleigh Holloway, Rachel Cossey (C), Alice Ladbrooke, Mollie O’Callaghan, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters. Subs – Jorja Patterson & Rebecca Russell.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
The bare 11 available for Peterborough missing a few players including top goalscorer Katie Steward who has 15 so far this season. New signing Summer Ward and Chardonnay Johnston starting for Wymondham. Peterborough in their home strip, black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. Wymondham in their away colours, purple shirts and socks with red shorts. Peterborough to kick-off the 1st half, Wymondham with the sun at their backs.
Straight away a competitive tussle in midfield the ball closed down, Alice Ladbrooke winning it for Wymondham the ball lost comes back to Emma Pollard for Peterborough central plays the diagonal pass long for captain Vicky Gallagher to attack on the right wing, Chardonnay Johnston can see it out of play for Wymondham. Wymondham make progress up the right Kayleigh Holloway winning a throw put inside pushed on to Ladbrooke she flicks the ball on into the area, Bronwyn Mulheron heading clear for Peterborough.
Leah Newcombe after the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies
Mulheron defending well again for Peterborough as Hannah Waters tries to get through into the area from a central pass the defender seeing the ball back to goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Wymondham counter Ladbrooke winning the ball plays it on for Laura Nicholls central she lays it out to Holloway right, Larissa Frederick closing her down the fullback tackling the ball out for a throw. Peterborough attack with pace through the middle, Bethany Fretwell with a vital interception as Cassie Steward looks to run in behind.
Mulheron winning the ball at the back for Peterborough the ball long up the left wing for Georgia Coulson drives forwards wins a throw the ball inside to Pollard 25 yards out plays it across the face of the Wymondham area with Chanade Henderson picking it up moving across the D shapes to shoot, Johnston charging the ball down. The final ball a little too heavy from both sides early on, Wymondham get up the pitch a throw won players forwards the ball 25 yards out helped onto Mollie O’Callaghan the young midfielder drags her shot wide across goal.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Bronwyn Mulheron
O’Callaghan sets up a Wymondham attack her past forwards Nicholls spreads play wide to the right she drives up the line gets inside the fullback to fire a cross into the six yard box Nicholls arriving far post connects but can’t keep the ball down. Peterborough break with pace the ball with Pollard 20 yards out inside to Henderson she attempts to slide Coulson through into the area Ashleigh O’Callaghan in the Wymondham goal out smartly to make the save with her legs.
Georgia Coulson with the ball for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies
Both sides looking to spread the play not afraid to go from one side of the park to the other in their build up play. Wymondham have the ball left Ladbrooke on for Mollie O’Callaghan the pass swept out to Summer Ward breaking on the left the wing back getting into the box puts her shot straight into Hudson covering her near post. Holloway on the ball right breaks it in puts the ball inside to Waters she turns sends it on for Nicholls 20 yards out her first time effort looping up towards goal, doesn’t have the carry to trouble Hudson as she takes the catch.
Peterborough’s Larissa Frederick with Wymondham’s Kayleigh Holloway
Steward influential on the ball inside the Wymondham half looking for runners to get in ahead of her attempts a ball out to the right for Gallagher too much on it the keeper can claim. Steward gathering the ball into her feet on the left cuts inside driving towards the area takes on the shot her attempt blocked. Henderson with a good forwards ball into Coulson coming in from the left Fretwell defends for the visitors.
Cassie Steward lining up a shot
A free-kick on halfway for Wymondham as Ladbrooke is upended. Fretwell to play the ball in towards the top of the area over Waters central, Rachel Cossey making a good run gets her head onto the ball, the Wymondham captains looping header in on target safely caught by Hudson. Steward drives on down the right wing cutting inside into the box fires a rocket in low towards the near post o’Callaghan making a fantastic save with her legs, Steward tries to get onto the end of the follow up the ball behind for a goal kick.
Nicholls gets the ball out to Holloway on the right coming inside into the area Hudson coming to close the angle saves with her feet the ball loose, Holloway after it between Hudson and Frederick the ball is cleared for Peterborough. A throw on the right Wymondham pressing get hit on the counter the ball wide out to Steward left by the touchline does enough to get the ball beyond Fretwell, Pollard taking it on drives inside, Ladbrooke tracking back does well to regain possession for Wymondham.
Emma Pollard with the ball for Peterborough
Waters comes close to opening the scores for Wymondham, the visiting side attacking right Holloway on for Nicholls moving into the channel. her pass finding Waters closing in on the area in behind central, Hudson out to the top of her area Water looks to take it around her the keeper diving at full stretch managing to get her gloves to the ball, momentarily, Waters is still with it an open goal to aim at shots the ball running narrowly wide across the goal.
Wymondham looking strong as the first half draws to a close Peterborough a little frustrated passes not coming off as intended. A few niggly challenges out there. O’Callaghan is brought down very close to being a penalty right on the line left of the Peterborough goal. O’Callaghan picks herself up to take a dinked effort in on goal the ball landing on the top of the crossbar.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan
Holloway on the right delivers a high swerving ball into the area Ward far side attempts to cushion a header down back across the six yard box for Waters, Hudson nipping in before her gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Frederick gets forwards for Peterborough plays the past on into Steward she turns well to get in behind Fretwell into the area shoots, O’Callaghan saving well with her legs once again to deny her.
Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 0-0 Wymondham Town Ladies
Goalless at the break, both sides with chances to open the scoring, Waters for Wymondham. Ashleigh O’Callaghan twice denying Steward. The final ball rushed at times a committed tussle in the middle, Wymondham using their wing backs well. More clinical finishing needed 2nd half if either side is going to get their noses in front.
Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey with Peterborough’s Chanade Henderson
Wymondham with a change at half-time Mollie O’Callaghan the player off on comes Rebecca Russell. Peterborough to get the 2nd half underway the ball played out to Pollard on the right she gets forwards as space opens up before her O’Callaghan out to the corner of her box gets down to claim the ball. Steward in a good position back to goal 20 out left of the D sees the ball int her feet does fantastically well to send the ball on into the box for Coulson bursting in behind from the left she shoots early the ball held by O’Callaghan at her near post. Cossey with the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham out to Ward on the left she pushes on delivering a cross into the area Mulheron up to head clear for Peterborough.
GOAL! 5 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken. Wymondham win a corner on the left the ball cleared inside the box comes out to Steward left she takes the ball on over halfway Pollard is bursting on through the middle to get ahead of her the two combine Steward into Pollard she plays it out to Steward on the left wing in an advanced position she shoots from the angle plenty of power behind the ball in races past O’Callaghan to nestle in the back of the net 1-0.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Cassie Steward
Wymondham look to get forwards Russell on for Waters outside the area she turns into traffic Leah Barnes and Faith Horner closing her down to win the ball back. Frances Peeling closes Ward down as Ladbrooke wins the ball in the middle looks to spread the play.
GOAL! Peterborough build on their lead quickly making it 2-0 the goal starting with Henderson pressing high in the middle winning the ball her pass finding Pollard in space on the right 25 yards out plays it back infield into Steward central she does well 20 yards out back to goal to shift the ball beat her marker and turn and strike a shot back across the goalkeeper into the back of the net to make it 2-0 with a clinical finish.
Wymondham make a change Jorja Patterson coming on in the place of Ward. The move sees Holloway come over to the left. Coulson attacking down the left swings a cross into the area Fretwell clears for Wymondham. The Norfolk side break the ball played on over the top with Nicholls breaking in behind right of goal takes the shot on early her attempt fired wide of the right post. Holloway on the left gets in behind drives to the byline cuts the ball back for Nicholls she tries to pick out Waters central Barnes charges her shot down.
You’ll see it all the time in a game a winger trying to get in behind their marker the two shoulder to shoulder, Coulson on the left ends up on the ground play continues but is soon halted the Peterborough player clearly in a lot of pain. A serious injury suffered has landed on a snapped her wrist. A lengthy and necessary pause in play follows as she receives on the field treatment can’t be moved too quickly. Not nice to witness, the football doesn’t matter in these moments. Needs to go to A&E and of course with no subs Peterborough will continue with 10. Coulson up to her feet in carefully guided off the pitch.
Almost half an hour delay before play resumes difficult now for both sides Peterborough needing regroup, Wymondham were on the back foot need to gather themselves too. Play a little disjointed at the resumption. Steward tries to release Pollard on the right, Johnston gets back on her to defend for Wymondham. Mulheron defends as Waters central tries to spin off her into the box. Ladbrooke is winning alot of tackles in the middle for Wymondham breaking up Peterborough’s momentum.
Mollie O’Callaghan with Peterborough’s Faith Horner
Nicholls is fouled 35 yards out in a central position, Fretwell to take a floated ball into the area, Hudson calls and lays claim to it. Hudson is then out to the top of her area to smother the ball as Waters attempts to run in behind through the middle. Johnston cuts out a pass a Henderson tries to play Gallagher in through the middle the rebound comes out to Steward 30 yards out left meets it on the volley her attempt wide of the mark.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Chanade Henderson
Fretwell does well under pressure from Steward through the middle to nod the ball back into her keepers gloves as Horner plays the ball forwards. Johnston on for Holloway ahead of her left side she drives forwards cuts inside shooting from 25 yards out Hudson making the save at her near post. Pollard wins the ball with a good challenge on the right plays it across the face of the area to Gallagher she puts it through the back line for Steward, she shots a hard driven ball but the flag is up it won’t count. Wymondham make a change Cossey the player off back on O’Callaghan.
Barnes with the tackle to deny Holloway after Ladbrooke regains possession in the middle for Wymondham. A free-kick wide on the right for Peterborough the ball put into the area by Steward an inviting cross, O’Callaghan with a good catch not put off by Henderson closing her down. Counter attacking play from both sides Peterborough not interested on sitting on their 2-0 lead, Steward forwards, O’Callaghan winning it back for Wymondham pushed in with Nicholls finding space in behind closing in on the area, Hudson out to close her down the shot put past the advancing keeper, but so to the goal beyond.
GOAL! Wymondham pull a goal back have the ball on the right side Waters driving on is tackled outside the area the ball loose O’Callaghan up in support first to it plays it inside to Nicholls top of the box she takes on the shot first time putting the ball into the back of the net across the goalkeeper 2-1.
Laura Nicholls pulls it back to 2-1 for Wymondham
10 minutes or so left, Henderson and Gallagher look to combine for Peterborough through the middle. Newcombe defends for Wymondham. Gallagher gets up into the corner looks to hold play up Wymondham get the goal kick.
GOAL! The scores are levelled Wymondham win a penalty kick as Waters carrying the ball in behind on the right is pulled down inside the area the referee pointing to the spot. Nicholls with the ball tacked under her arm the taker. The sun low behind the ground now the goal covered in shade she opts for power, Hudson guessing right dives but the ball is beyond her Nicholls with her 2nd of the game scoring the equaliser 2-2.
Peterborough straight on the attack after the restart the ball from Steward on for Henderson getting into an advanced position Fretwell doing well tackling to deny the chance. Gallagher yellow carded for a high foot that catches Newcombe in the face as both go for the ball, looked ugly but Gallagher did try to pull out as she released the ball wasn’t there to be won. Newcombe needs treatment on the pitch another pause in play she needs to come off Cossey returning to the action.
Wymondham Town Ladies. Alice Ladbrooke
Into the last 5 minutes… a free kick to Wymondham, Fretwell with the long ball into the area Nicholls interested, Hudson though can claim it. Ladbrooke closing down breaks up anther Peterborough attack. Waters chasing the ball to the byline on the right wing cuts the ball back in across the face of goal Holloway at the far post, Peeling in ahead of her cuts out the threat for Peterborough.
Peterborough press forwards Henderson central to Gallagher her shot from 25 yards out is half blocked by Fretwell the sting taken out of it O’Callaghan gets hold of it. Steward halfway on for Henderson, has Peeling breaking up the right wing her cross in cut out by Johnston.
Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Wymondham Town Ladies
The full time whistle blows and the points are shared Wymondham coming back from 2 goals down to level the scores. An action packed 2nd half. Peterborough starting well two well taken goals from Steward putting them 2-0 up. Injury to Coulson seeing a long delay and the hosts down to 10 with no subs to bring on. Wymondham coming back into it to get themselves a point. A tough result for Peterborough in a good position at 2-0 with 11 on the pitch may well have added more as Wymondham pressed. The visitors had to work had against 10 for the point nevertheless.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a committed tussle especially in the middle a few contenders out there and as are my rules can pick one and one only. Cassie Steward was influential in the final third and scored two great goals. Chanade Henderson also with some driving runs through the middle. Today’s award however goes to Wymondham’s Alice Ladbrooke had a very strong game in the middle of the park, breaking up attacks and protecting the defence, tracking back and timing of her tackles was superb.
Enjoyed my first trip to the Branch Bros Stadium, sure the weather helped. The ERWFL rarely fails to deliver good footballing fare and today was no exception. Tinged with sadness of course to the serious injury to Peterborough winger Georgia Coulson, can only express my best wishes to her for a full and speedy recovery. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line-ups always appreciated.
The league action scarce this weekend in the Beds & Herts Women’s leagues with 7 ties outstanding in the 2nd Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Last week saw a 3 way tie at the top of Division One with 3 sides all on 19 points, Northwood Ladies top on goal difference. Now it’s a 4 way tie with Houghton Athletic Ladies joining the top 3 on 19 points in the table. The only match in the division on Sunday seeing Houghton Athletic away to Northwood. The hosts having just the 10 players available for the match. Houghton Athletic able to name five on the bench. Northwood with a valiant effort Emma Steele getting on the scoresheet with a goal Houghton Athletic found the back of their opponents net for 3 goals to with the game. Rachel Spendelow, Ciara Craig and Emily Wilson with her 12th of the season the goalscorers.
One other match in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One on Sunday saw 5th placed St Albans Ladies away to Sherrardswood Ladies. a 6-0 win for St Albans seeing them just 2 points behind the 4 way tie above. Ellen Slater opening the scoring for St Albans in the 13th minute. Goals from Eleanor Lovelock and Michaela Lovelock on the half hour saw the visitors 3-0 up at half-time. Carys Baker making it 4-0 in the 56th minute her first goal for St Albans. Two further goals were scored in the last 5 minutes of the game with Lovelock getting her 2nd and Lauren Croucher on target for her first St Albans goal.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
There was the one league game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two this Sunday with league leaders Hitchin Belles at home to 4th placed Letchworth Garden City Eagles. A close contest between the sides, Lottie Cartwright and Natalie Moey were on the scoresheet for Letchworth. Amy Jack with her 14th & 15th goals of the season scoring a brace for Hitchin Belles, Keira How adding another goal to move into double figures herself for the season in a 3-2 win that see’s Hitchin Belles open up a 5 point lead at the top of the table.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One game played too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday with Kempston Rovers Ladies back in action after a month with a game at home to AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. A strong performance from the visitors seeing them run up a large score and move up into 3rd place in the table as a result. Kimberlee Aldred netting a hat-trick in the match there was a brace too for top scorer Chloe Urbanowicz taking her onto 16 for the season. Goals too for Bex Cray and Zara Garrad with Abigale Young making her 1st start for the club scoring on her debut in an 8-0 win.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
The weather playing havoc with the competition over the past couple of weeks at last all 7 of the remaining 2nd Round ties from this season’s Chris Renshaw Cup were played on Sunday. Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses the only side to book a quarter final spot before this weekend.
Division One side, Sharnbrook WFC were hosting Division Two title chasers Hitchin Town Ladies this Sunday in the 2nd Round of the competition. A goal from Hitchin Town captain Emma Chaffey plus a brace from Louise Gash securing a 3-1 win for the visitors to see them advance to the quarter finals. Mel Harradine getting the goal for Sharnbrook.
Both Garston Ladies sides were at home in the 2nd Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Garston Ladies 1st team were taking on Division Two side Evergreen Eagles. The visitors short on numbers Garston struggling for form in Division One advancing with a comfortable result in the finish Jane Hales scoring 5 goals in the game with Lucy Zecchin also on the scoresheet in a 7-0 win.
Likewise Garston Ladies 2nd XI are at the wrong end of Division One were taking on Royston Town Ladies Development this Sunday in the Cup. The hosts scoring twice through Daisy Culaj and Chloe Hazell, Royston responding with 2 themselves to see the ties head all the way to a penalty shootout with Nicole Cooper and Kierra Gabriel on the scoresheet Garston getting the better of the shootout winning on penalties 4-2 to book a spot in the quarter finals.
An all Division Two tie in the 2nd Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup saw Welwyn Pegasus Azures at home to Watton Ladies on Sunday. Two goals in the first half for Anna Bright for Welwyn she went on to complete her hat-trick in the 2nd half taking her onto 11 for the season, with April Spang netting a goal too in the first half securing a 4-2 victory for the hosts to see them progress.
Division Three side Biggleswade United Ladies were at home to Evergreen Ladies from Division Two in the 2nd Round of the Cup. The hosts getting themselves into a 2-0 lead. Leane Pickett pulled it back to 2-1 for Evergreen, Biggleswade adding a 3rd goal, it proved to be enough to see off their higher league opponents and advance in the competition despite another goal from Pickett. 3-2 the final score.
Lastly there were two all Division Three ties in the 2nd Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup league leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves drawn away to 3rd placed Langford Ladies. Turned out to be a dramatic game with the sides sharing 9 goals. Nicola Hollick putting Dunstable into the lead inside the opening 15 minutes her first for the club. Top scorer Bianca Vassell doubling Dunstable’s lead in 1st half injury time. Langford pulling a goal back within 5 minutes of the restart. Courtney McNamara on 57 minutes and Nicole Cameron in the 63rd minute firing Dunstable into a 4-1 lead. Langford getting it back to 4-2 with 20 minutes left to play. Hollick making just her 2nd start getting a 2nd goal in the 80th minute for Dunstable 5-2 ahead Langford threatened a late comeback scoring twice late on to pull it back to 5-4. Dunstable with enough of a lead to hold on and advance. Chloe Scott with a hat-trick for Langford with Amber Clark also on the scoresheet.
The other all Division Three tie went all the way to a penalty shootout with Stotfold Juniors Ladies at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies in the 2nd Round of the competition. Stotfold scoring 3 times in regular play the scores level at the final whistle with Jessica Sullivan netting at hat-trick for Bedwell. The game to be decided from the penalty spot Stotfold edging Bedwell out with a 3-2 shootout win to reach the quarter finals.
The quarter finals of The Chris Renshaw Cup to be played in a fortnights time Sunday 3rd March with a 1:30pm kick-off are listed below:-
Garston Ladies 1st team v AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves
Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses v Stotfold Juniors Ladies
Semi-final weekend in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, two contrasting results that will see a repeat of last seasons final with Cambridge City Ladies defending the trophy they won taking on Cambridge United WFC who will just a determined to win it back. They get on like a house on fire and don’t do anything to wind each other up… well … I tried.
Cambridge United WFC faced a testing opponent in their semi-final at home on Sunday were taking on St Ives Town Ladies, leading the way in ERWFL Division One unbeaten so far in the league this season working hard to become another leading women’s football side in the county. Cambridge United playing two league above in FAWNL South East Division One. Mollie Coupar getting onto the end of a free-kick from the left to put the ball over the line from close range to open the scoring for Cambridge inside the opening 5 minutes. There were few chances after that with Cambridge pressing St Ives keeping them at bay couldn’t find a reply up the other end Coupar’s goal enough to send Cambridge through to another Invitation Cup Final.
Mollie Coupar with the goal to send Cambridge United WFC into the Invitation Cup Final (photo credit Gary Reed)
Cambridge City Ladies are unbeaten at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with just 2 league points dropped to date, the ambition the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL themselves. Defending the Invitation Cup just as important are scoring and have plenty of goalscorers in their squad. Were away in the semi-finals of the competition taking on Wisbech Town Ladies, playing 3 leagues below in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North have goals in their side too, Cambridge City however proving too strong an opponent on the day. Carla Penny top scoring in the match netting 4 goals. 3 players all scoring a brace each, Lauren Tomlinson, Sarah Mosley and Erin Davies. Laura Mills, Amy Reed and Shannon Shaw also finding the back of the net for a goal each in a 13-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
ICA Sports Ladies climb back to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership after they were awarded the win over Netherton United Ladies. One game taking place in the league on Sunday saw 3rd placed Cambridge University Women at home to bottom side Riverside Ladies. Lidiya Mykhaylechko netting a brace for Cambridge University Lu Liu scoring her 1st goal for the club and another on debut in a 4-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One match too played in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with table toppers Ketton Ladies looking to make it 8 win from 8 and go 3 points clear at the top as they travelled to Hungate Rovers Ladies. Fran Kavanagh scoring another hat-trick for Ketton one from the penalty spot. There were braces too for Beth Goodman and Claire Lawrenson in a 7-1 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South table is a league of two halves, the six sides split into 2 groups the bottom 3 all with a single win on the board each the top three all in the hunt for the title itself. Haverhill Rovers Ladies 6 points clear, 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development on 18 points with 2 games in hand, a 18 points too for 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC who have a game in hand on Haverhill in a strong position should either of the top two slip up. A sixth win of the season coming at home on Sunday against Isleham United Ladies in the only game in the division on Sunday. Cambridge Rangers with a great 5-1 win to keep up the pressure on the leading pair. Laura Todd scoring Isleham United’s goal.
