It was a busy weekend of football in Essex at the weekend with a busy league programme aswell as the semi-finals of both the Women’s County Cup and Trophy competition’s.
C&K Basildon Ladies won their Essex Women’s County Cup semi-final on Sunday to reach a fifth consecutive final. Have dominated the competition in recent seasons winning the final for the past 4 seasons as they progressed through the women’s football pyramid climbing up to the FAWPL Southern Premier Division. A much changed side this season will be defending the trophy. Basildon away to ERWFL Division One side Hutton Ladies in the last 4 of the county cup. Hutton with Victoria Kinsman leading their attack the current Essex Women’s Trophy holders. 37 goals for the striker now this season as she got on the scoresheet again this Sunday for Hutton. As good at it got for the hosts however as Basildon’s Holly Turner scored a hat-trick in the match. A goal too for Jodie Osbourne scoring almost a year to the day after suffering a broken leg. Basildon winning the game 5-1 to book their spot in the final.
Their opponents this season will be Billericay Town Ladies who recruited a few Basildon players during the close season as they won promotion to the FAWNL themselves. Currently 2nd on South East Division One, Billericay were at home in their semi-final taking on last season’s finalists, Brentwood Town Ladies. Billericay have a strong squad scoring plenty of goals they proved too strong for their ERWFL Premier Division One who had just the bare 11 available. Billericay taking the lead in the 20th minute with new signing Kerry Stimson scoring her 1st goal for her new club. A 2nd goal coming 5 minutes later captain Lindsey Morgan volleying in from a corner kick. Two minutes later a chance for 3-0 from the penalty spot former Billericay goalkeeper Robyn Strauss saving for Brentwood.
The 3rd goal coming in the 37th minute with Billericay’s Morgan heading home inside the box from another corner. Zoe Rushen scoring Billericay’s 4th 3 minutes later. Morgan went on to complete her hat-trick in the final minute of the 1st half. A 5-0 lead for Billericay at half-time. Morgan was on the end of another cross to score her 4th of the game with 10 minutes of the 2nd half played. Sophie Vale scoring a brace for the hosts in the 64th and 78th minute to seal an 8-0 victory for Billericay.
4 goals for Billericay Town Ladies captain Lindsey Morgan
The Essex Women’s County Cup Final taking place at Bowers & Pitsea FC’s, Len Salmon Stadium on Thursday 18th April with a 7:45pm Kick-off.
Essex Women’s Trophy
Semi-finals time to in the Essex Women’s Trophy competition this Sunday. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies reaching their 1st ever final under their new name. The ERWFL Division One side in the hunt for the title in their league were drawn at home to Essex Premier Division, Collier Row Tigers, playing in the league below carry a potent goal threat. Bowers & Pitsea taking the lead in the semi-final with Sophie Dowman finding the back of the net in the 15th minute. Collier Row Tigers coming back into it to level the scores in the 35th minute and see the sides go in level at the break. Dowman with a 2nd goal 11 minutes into the 2nd half her 12th strike of the season restoring Bowers & Pitsea’s lead. 4 minutes later Georgia Fraser scoring from a free-kick fired the hosts into a 3-1 lead and into the Trophy final.
Their opponents in the Trophy final itself with be fellow ERWFL Division One side Lawford Ladies as they over came opponents Silver End United Ladies in extra-time on Sunday. Silver End United hosting Lawford reaching the final of the Trophy last season. A quickfire 1st half brace from Sarah Jolly, it was all square at 90 minutes with Lawford hitting to up the other end. The visitors getting the better of Silver End in the extra period of play scoring two more to win the game 4-2 and reach the final.
The Essex Women’s Trophy to take place at Aveley FC on Sunday 24th March with a 4:00pm kick-off.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Three games played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. The top two meeting for the 3rd time this season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies leading the table by 4 points over Frontiers Ladies. The previous games going Leigh Ramblers way, ending Frontiers 100% winning start to the league and then knocking them out of the League Cup. Leigh Ramblers with 10 straight league wins hadn’t lost since the opening day of the season. A close contest between the sides at the weekend Frontiers coming away with the narrow win with goals from Emma Best and Anna Freeman seeing them run out 2-1 winners with Amy Jacobs scoring for the hosts. A 2nd defeat of the season for Leigh Ramblers with Frontiers closing to within a point.
4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies were away to Corringham Cosmos Ladies this Sunday in the Premier Division. Shannon Kelly on the scoresheet for Chelmsford. Milly Thompson on target with 20 minutes to go for Corringham as the two sides shard the points. Corringham finding a bit of form now undefeated in open play in 3 games.
It was a 3rd win of the season for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies in the Premier Division on Sunday. There last league win coming back in November away to bottom side Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves. 2-1 back then they meet in the reverse fixture this weekend Beacon Hill Rovers at home. Katie Bowman with her 1st of the season scoring for Brentwood Town. It was a repeat result from the game in November with Beacon Hill Rovers scoring twice up the other end too take the 3 points Louise Oliver with her 1st of the season and a goal from Amber Long securing the win.
Essex Women’s Division One
Four matches played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday with the top 3 all winning again, the top four if you count FC Clacton Ladies after they secured the 3 points at home at the weekend to climb two places into 4th in the table. Clacton were hosting Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves in their league fixture. Charlotte Warren scoring a hat-trick for the hosts to move onto 9 for the season, Charlotte Robertson also on target with a goal aswell as top scorer Becky McDougall netting her 13th of the campaign in a 5-0 win.
League leaders Billericay Town Ladies Reserves were at home to Runwell Sports Ladies this Sunday in Division One. Nicola Carty seeing Billericay to the 3 points scoring at hat-trick to move her onto 13 goals for the season and keep them 6 points clear at the top of the table. The winning score 3-1, Rebecca Pope getting the goal for Runwell Sports her 1st since rejoining the club.
Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies 2nd in Division One were hosting Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves this Sunday. Won the 3 points courtesy of a 6-0 win. Jodie Barden scoring twice in the match takes her goals scored to 10 for the season. 10 goals too this season for Grace Tebb-Reading as she scored a goal too at the weekend. Evie Doyle-Love also on target with a goal for Dagenham & Redbridge. Adeola Palazon amongst the goals too for the 1st time Dagenham & Redbridge scoring a brace in her 3rd appearance.
A much closer contest for 3rd placed Hutton Ladies Reserves at home to Chigwell Ladies this Sunday in Division One. A goal from Kirsti McLeavy the difference between the sides her 3rd goal of the season for Hutton securing the 3 points in a 1-0 victory.
Quarter finals weekend for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup competition. Ipswich Town Women with an iron grip of the trophy winning six of the last seven finals. This Sunday also the start of a new era for the club with Carla Dickinson stepping down as head coach in mid-week U21s coach Joe Sheehan to the 1st team mangers role. His first game in charge Ipswich’s home quarter final tie against Suffolk Women’s Division side Brantham Athletic Ladies. A 3 league gap between the sides a big gulf.
Ipswich getting off to a great start their new signings Amy Nash and Georgia Box combining in the opening 5 minutes for Box to open her account for Ipswich. Toni-Anne Wayne doubling the lead on 15 minutes firing the ball home to make it 2-0. Captain Cassie Craddock quickly adding a 3rd to the home sides tally. Paige Wakefield scoring Ipswich’s 4th on 23 minutes Craddock with her 2nd before the half hour. Full back Jac Ball bombing forwards and shooting on the scoresheet to bring up a 6th goal in the 35th minute. Natasha Thomas scoring on the stroke of half-time to see Ipswich leading 7-0 at the break.
Five changes at half-time for Ipswich, Brantham to their credit putting in the hard work keep going, keeping the hosts at bay till the 65th minute with Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match an overhead kick inside the area. Craddock volleyed in her 3rd to complete a hat-trick. Nash finding the back of net for Ipswich’s 10th and her 1st for the club. Into the last 10 minutes, both Wayne and Thomas adding another goal each with Amanda Crump back with a stunning left foot strike. Box wrapping up a 14-0 result with her 2nd goal in the last minute. Ipswich comfortable into the last 4 once again.
AFC Sudbury Ladies were beaten by Ipswich Town Women in last two County Cup Finals the ERWFL Premier Division side drawn away to Coplestonians Ladies in the quarter finals of this season’s competition. 2 leagues between the sides Sudbury have been struggling for league form the County Cup different as they progress with a comfortable result, Emma Squirrel opening the scoring for the away side, Mia Etheridge doubling the lead, both players going on to score again. 4-0 up Olivia Gunn struck home for her 1st goal of the season to make it 5 with Ellie Mitchell making 1st appearance for the club scoring on her debut. 6 goals and a clean sheet for Sudbury.
The top two in the Suffolk Women’s Division were drawn together in the quarter finals of the County Cup this Sunday with 2nd placed Needham Market Women full of confidence after a fantastic first half of the season at home to East Bergholt United Ladies very strong themselves top of the table with a 100% record. An attacking game from both sides plenty of goalscorers amongst them, a 3-0 lead for Needham Market certainly caused the eyebrows to raise when I saw it on twitter. East Bergholt fought hard to get back into the game and pulled it back to 3-2, Needham Market’s keeper with a late save to deny them a 3rd as Needham Market knock them out of the competition to reach the last 4 of the County Cup in their debut season.
In the other quarter final game in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup two sides were meeting who too were making their debut seasons with Woodbridge Town Ladies at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies the latter playing over the border in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South leading the table it was a close match between the sides that when all the way to a penalty shootout with the game ending all square at 1-1 heading to a penalty shootout Haverhill the side emerging victorious to reach the semi-finals going through with a 4-2 win.
Suffolk Women’s Division
As well as the County Cup quarter finals there were also two matches taking place in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday. With 3 of the top 4 in the league playing in the competition 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers won their 10th game of the season to open up a 5 point gap between themselves and 4th placed Brantham Athletic with a comfortable away win against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies at the weekend. Alresford having a good spread amongst their goal scorers with most on the scoresheet this season. Were without top scorers Tiffany Reeves and Jo Harvey this Sunday others contributing in their stead Alresford winning 6-1 with six different players celebrating a goal, Leia Rudge, Ellie May Griggs, Lucie Stanbury, Donna Leggett, Laurel Harknett & Abigail Chambers with her 1st of the season. Charlotte Archer scoring the goal for Chantry Grasshoppers.
In the other game played in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday Leiston St Margarets were at home to Walsham Le Willows. A hat-trick for Lucy Eagle taking her onto 19 goals for the season along with a 13th goal of the season for Thalia Cloke seeing Leiston St Margarets win the game for one to climb above Walsham Le Willows into 6th place on the table. Laura Brame and Norma Locker scoring for Walsham Le Willows.
Semi-final weekend for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a strong line-up in the last four with the huge incentive of Carrow Road waiting for the winners the final of the women’s competition being held at the home of Norwich City FC.
No side winning to lay down both games couldn’t be sorted in the allocated 90 minutes. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East headed this Sunday to the game between Thorpe United Ladies & King’s Lynn Town Ladies. 4 County Cup final appearances in a row for Thorpe United including back to back successes in recent season’s the underdogs being the lowest ranked side. That said their new side with a good blend of youth and experience are runaway leaders in Norfolk Women’s Division One. King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing in the league above were looking to reach the County Cup final for the 1st time.
Thorpe with a depleted squad a few missing some on the field recovering from injury. Started well with captain Rebekah Lake a threat up top. King’s Lynn were to open the scoring the ball struck well from outside the area by Tiffany Forshaw on the hour to make it 1-0. A narrow lead for King’s Lynn at the break the 2nd half they started to grow in dominance creating chances but failing to find the back of the net to put the tie to bed. The game entering the final 10 minutes Thorpe with a free-kick outside the area was cleared out to Sharnie Boast on the left inside the box struck it well racing through the crowded six yard box to nestle in the back of the net. 1-1 at the final whistle extra-time to be played.
A hat-trick for King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tiffany Forshaw
King’s Lynn striking early to retake the lead the ball crossed into the area for Forshaw to head down from six yards to score her 2nd of the game. Good work from Jodie Hopkins on the right supported by captain Becky Russell brought a 3rd goal the ball across the face of goal missed at the near post running on for Forshaw to tap in and complete her hat-trick. King’s Lynn 3-1 with 15 more minutes of extra-time left. Thorpe were never out of it a free-kick struck well from outside the box by Laura Hedtke setting up a nervous finish but running the ball into the corner King’s Lynn held on and were ecstatic at the final whistle as they booked their place at Carrow Road.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies through to their first ever County Cup Final
No less dramatic in the other Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-final as Acle United Women took on Wymondham Town Ladies in a repeat of last season’s final. Close rivals always a closely fought contest between the sides both in the ERWFL Premier Division. Both have lifted the County Cup, Wymondham the holders last season’s winners 3-2 over Acle looking to make it 3 finals in a row. League encounters don’t give much away Acle winning 1-0 at Wymondham back in October. Wymondham returned the favour winning 1-0 at Acle 3 weeks ago.
The game started off at tight affair little penalty box action, the opening goal coming as the game closed in on the half hour Wymondham awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out, Mollie O’Callaghan the taker her shot judged to have crossed line despite Acle’s attempts to clear. 5 minutes to go in the first half and it was Acle’s turn to score from a free-kick Amber Rowland finding the top corner to make it 1-1. Wymondham were soon back in front getting down the other end won a penalty. O’Callaghan stepping up to send the ball in for her 2nd of the game. 2-1 the lead at half-time.
Mid-way through the 2nd half and Acle levelled the scores up once again winning a penalty themselves Rowland like O’Callaghan sending the ball past the keeper to make it 2-2. Acle pressed for a winning goal Wymondham keeping them at bay the game ending all square headed int extra-time. A cagey period of extra play Laura Nicholls broke through to send the ball into the back of the net to put Wymondham ahead for the 3rd time in the game, but with 3 minutes remaining Acle equalised for a 3rd time. Broghan Scully sending the ball in from the free-kick. The game heading to penalties the shootout seeing more drama, Acle seeing one strike the post, Summer Ward scored the decisive spot kick for Wymondham to send them into their 3rd successive final. Wymondham winning on penalties 5-4.
The Final to be played at Carrow Road, I can hardly wait! Scheduled for Sunday 28th April with a 3:30pm kick-off.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One game in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday with 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies travelling to the coast to play Gorleston FC Ladies on Sunday. A 1-0 lead for the visitors in the 1st half Sprowston went on to have the better of the 2nd half to score a further 4 goals and win 5-0 to open up a 3 point gap over Aylsham Ladies in 3rd. Victoria Leyer hitting another brace takes her tally to 21 goals for the season from 10 appearances. Their were goals too for Amee Kennett, Georgina Belton and captain Abby Hutchin.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
One outstanding tie left to play in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition saw another Sprowston side travelling to Gorleston on Sunday with Sprowston Athletic Ladies taking on Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies. The higher league side running out comfortable winners in the finish to reach the quarter finals. Sprowston Athletic wining the game 61 had 6 different goalscorers on the scoresheet with both Melissa Belsey and Rachel Bussey netting for the 5th time this season. Goals too for Olivia Leggett, Katie Fray and Laura Jenkins with Keri Boorman on target for her 1st of the campaign. An away trip to Division Two side Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies this coming Sunday in the quarter final. Rachel Adams with the goal for Gorleston Rangers.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Three matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday. Long Stratton Women taking advantage of Fakenham Town Ladies not having a game to climb above them into 2nd spot in the table with their 5 successive league win. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Freethorpe Ladies. A brace from Beth Stratton taking her to 12 for the season along with a 27th goal of the season for Samantha Walker seeing the visiting side win the game 3-0.
A series of postponements see Tavern Ladies with games in hand in Division Two and should they win those games will be in amongst the top 4 sides themselves. A scoring plenty of goals too. Were away to Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies this Sunday. 4-1 up at half-time the score repeated 2nd half to see Tavern climb up to 6th with an 8-2 victory. Katie Hart-Copsey well in front in the goal scoring charts hit 5 into the back of the net this weekend taking her tally to an incredible 35 goals from 11 appearances. Atlanta Griffith with a goal to against Bure Valley has 15 for the season with Lucy Lincoln and Meganne Smith with her 1st goal of the season also scoring.
Hockering Ladies were once again short on numbers as they entertained Horsford Women at home this Sunday in Division Two. Horsford winning for the 3rd time this season to move further clear of the bottom pair. The winning score 6-2. Laura Hudson was on target for 3 goals her 1st for the club in just her 2nd appearance. Jade Dodds too celebrating her 1st goals for Horsford netting a brace with Tanya Kirton also on the scoresheet for her 3rd of the season. Amy Bambridge scoring both the goals for Hockering.
Like the FAWNL a large number of clubs for the ERWFL were involved in the latter stages of their various County Cup competitions at the weekend that saw a reduced fixture list across both the Premier & Division One this Sunday.
Two games from the Premier Division, 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies were at home taking on Bedford Ladies, a win would have seen them move above Acle United Women into 2nd spot in the table. As it was Royston were defeated for just the 2nd time this season Bedford in 8th climbing back up into the top half of the table with the 3 points. Lauren Murray netting a brace for the visitors with Carissa Kaczorowski and Maya Sidhu also on target in a 4-2 win. Joanne Rutherford and Hayley Elderd scoring the goals for Royston.
AFC Dunstable have at times struggled for players to fulfil fixtures this Sunday they had just the 8 available as they took on Colney Heath Ladies at home. Injury seeing them down to 7, Colney Heath with the player advantage taking the lead from the penalty spot with Lucy Hancock scoring to make it 1-0, Dunstable striking the woodwork battled hard. Colney Heath going on to add 3 more goals ran out 4-0 winners. Sophie Joseph and Rianne Townsend-Brown on the scoresheet along with Olivia Mari marking her first appearance for Colney Heath with a goal.
ERWFL Division One
Three matches played in ERWFL Division One on Sunday. 4th placed Stevenage Ladies Reserves finally with a game on after a few postponements were at home taking on Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. Midfielder Sherrie Evans putting the hosts into a 12th minutes lead. Stevenage giving a penalty away midway through the 1st half Alison Wrights spot kick in off the post to make it 1-1. The sides drawing at half-time. Evans was on target for her 2nd of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd half. That how the score remained heading into the final minute Wright put through on goal setting her shot up over the advancing keeper to see Histon equalise for the 2nd time in the match and take away a share of the points.
Hertford Town Ladies resurgence continues as they extend their unbeaten run to 4 matches in Division One with a home win over Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Sunday. Hertford holding a 2-1 lead at the break going on to score a 3rd goal in the 2nd half to secure their 2nd win of the season. Their goals coming from Rhiann Patmore (pictured), Chloe Ring & Olivia Worsfold. Rosy Wodhams with the 1st half goal for Hoddesdon.
Hatfield Peverel Ladies were the winners on Sunday, their 1st since joining the ERWFL this season 3 points all coming from draws prior. The Essex side have struggled for goals this season the lowest scorers in the league by far with just 3 before this Sunday have brought in a few new faces to bolster the squad recently performances improving as a result, the win on the board at last were at home to fellow strugglers Bishops Stortford Ladies. Jasmine Cox adding a goal threat for Hatfield Peverel scoring her 2nd goal in 3 appearances. Victoria King getting on the scoresheet too with her 1st goal of the season in a 2-0 win that takes Hatfield Peverel off the bottom of the table.
A County Cup weekend across the country saw a limited number of games played in the FAWNL this Sunday with several teams involved in the latter stages of their various cup competitions a few from the county’s covered by Women’s Football East will get a mention later on this weeks 1st edition of The Round-Up concentrates on the games that did take place in the FAWNL itself this Sunday with a look back to the games that took place under the lights during midweek.
Four games were played in the Southern Premier Division last week, 2nd placed Coventry United Ladies closing the gap to 2 points on leaders Chichester City Ladies who saw their game away to Portsmouth FC Women postponed. Coventry travelling to played Loughborough Foxes Women. Amber Hughes striking in the 9th minute to hand Coventry an early lead her 12th goal of the campaign. Amy Wathan the lead goalscorer just head of Hughes doubling the lead in the 36th minute her 14th of the season. No further goals added in the 2nd half Coventry winning 2-0 are unbeaten in the league with 10 wins from 11 played 3 games in hand on Chichester.
Also on Thursday night it was a high scoring game between Gillingham FC Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies. An eventful match Gillingham opening the scoring inside 2 minutes with Alice Bussey on target. The visitors from Essex responding quickly with Courtney Clarke scoring to equalise for Basildon. Gemma Abela struck the ball home from 25 yards to put Basildon into the lead in the 15th minute. Midway through the 1st half it was Gillingham’s turn to level the scores Ellie Manning scoring against her former club. 2-2 at the break Gillingham restored their lead just past the hour with Grace Seely finding the back of the net. The game closing in on the final 10 minutes Gillingham got themselves a 2 goal cushion with midfielder player Daisy Monaghan scoring. Holly Turner puling it back to 4-3 to set up a nervous end to the game with 7 minutes left on the clock, in the end it was Gillingham who got a further goal to win the game 5-3 with Samantha Booker getting the goal in the 87th minute.
Two games before that on Wednesday evening. A trip to the Stadium MK for Oxford United Women as they took on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in the league. Not much separating the sides first half Florence Fyfe scoring in the final minute of the half to put Oxford into the lead with her 9th goal of the season. Oxford defending thier narrow advantage as the game approached the final 10 minutes, a goal from Emily Allen seeing the visitors go 2-0 up a 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the first for Oxford for new signing Cheryl Williams. Oxford up into 4th place in the Southern Premier Division table.
Queen’s Park Rangers Women were hosting Watford Ladies on Wednesday night the host taking an early lead in the game with Jo Wilson on target in the 2nd minute. Watford levelling the scores midway through the first half with Helen Ward top scorer for Watford getting her 16th goal of the campaign. QPR working hard kept Watford from finding another goal to earn a useful point ending the game with 10 as Hollie Hogan was red carded in the final minute.
Is all very tight in the chasing pack as Cardiff City Ladies playing in the only Southern Premier Division fixture on Sunday away to Gillingham picked up their 8th win of the season to climb up to 3rd in the table and see 3 sides ties on 25 points with Oxford 4th, Watford 5th and Loughborough Foxes Women just 2 points further back in 6th. Travelling to Kent to take on Gillingham the sides fought out a goalless 1st half, the dead lock broken on the hour with Emma Jones firing a shot home to put Cardiff 1 up. Remained tight Cardiff defending late in as Gillingham pushed for a reply deep into stoppage time the visitors breaking Kylie Nolan firing the ball home to seal the win for Cardiff.
FAWNL Cup
Both in action in midweek Loughborough Foxes Women were at home taking on South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side getting their noses in front late in the first half with Charlotte Cooper getting to the ball first at the near post to turn the ball into the back of the net to see the hosts leading 1-0 at half-time. Loughborough doubling the advantage early in the 2nd half with Rebecca McGrother putting the ball in from close range at the far post off a right wing cross. McGrother scoring again in stoppage time as Loughborough hit their opponents on the counter to win 3-0 and book their place in the last 4. An away trip to either Northern Premier Division leaders or 2nd placed Huddersfield Town Ladies awaits in the semi-final with the pair meeting this coming Sunday.
Coventry United Ladies are at home to Crawley Wasps Ladies also this coming Sunday in the FAWNL Cup the winners will be at home to Northern Division One side Bolton Wanderers Ladies in the semi-finals both games scheduled for Sun 3rd March.
In the last 4 of the FAWNL Plate competition, Gillingham FC Ladies will be at home to West Bromich Albion Ladies. Liverpool Feds Women will be away to the winners of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies & Keynsham Town Ladies who meet this coming Sunday. Again both games to be played Sun 3rd March.
FAWNL South East Division One
Again their was just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, but we’ll begin with the action in midweek. 4 games played on Wednesday night. One of those is were Women’s Football East was a trip to Plantation Park to watch the East Anglian Derby between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women. Ipswich starting the bright had a couple of efforts cannon off the woodwork it was Norwich whoever who took the lead a well worked goal through the middle of the park started and finished by Reeanna Cook the young midfielder getting into the box left of goal curling a strike into the top corner. 1-0 the lead at half-time striker Chelsea Garrett was introduced for Norwich making her return after 3 months out injured made a immediate impact running onto a ball forwards in behind and striking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 in the 46th minute. Norwich growing in confidence were the better side in the 2nd period Cook with a driving run on the left firing home late in the game for her 2nd of the game and Norwich’s 3rd to take the 3 points climb above their rivals. Head coach Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role at Ipswich after the game.
South East Division One leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Wednesday. An early goal for Crawley Rachel Palmer sending the ball in as Megan Stow squared it to her from a cleared corner. Wimbledon coming close to an equaliser Crawley taking a 2-0 lead in the game inside the opening quarter hour with Kemina Webber scoring. The visitors awarded a brace of penalties late in the 1st half Naomi Cole converting both in the 36th and 44th minute to see them lead 4-0 at the break. No more goals added in the 2nd period Crawley’s 100% record extended to 11 games in the league.
A brace from Zoe Rushen was the difference between the sides as 2nd placed Billericay Town Lades took on Leyton Orient WFC on Wednesday night. Rushen on target with a goal in each half. Leyton Orient pressing for an equaliser drawing level in the 65th minute with Egle Trezzi making it 1-1. Rushen on the scoresheet again to make it 2-1 and win the game for Billericay.
The points were shared in the other match played in South East Division One on Wednesday night with Cambridge United WFC travelling to Hertford Town FC to play Stevenage Ladies. Goalless at the break between the sides Vicky Neal getting the ball past the keeper to put Cambridge into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Stevenage coming back to rescue a point late on the game with former Cambridge player Ashleigh Deacon scoring to make it 1-1 in the 87th minute.
Stevenage were at home again on Sunday the latest side to try and put an end to Crawley Wasps 100% record in the league. Crawley maintaining strong form throughout the season aren’t keen on giving it up. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with Amy Woollard on target for her first goal for Crawley. Kemina Webber scoring to see Crawley leading 2-0 in the 45th minute. Megan Stow further extending the visitors lead with a goal in the 58th minute to make it 3-0, a quick fire brace from Naomi Cole and Webber in the 62nd & 64th minutes putting Crawley in full control of the game Cole went on to add a 2nd with a spectacular strike from centreback Charlotte Young in the final minute sealing a 7-0 win, 12 wins from 12 now Crawley 7 points clear at the top of the table.
Cup football this weekend on Women’s Football East, from the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, Thorpe United Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies.
A strong line-up in the last 4 of the competition the prize for the winners huge as the Women’s County Cup Final this season is going to be held at Carrow Road the home of Norwich City FC.
A repeat of last season’s final in the other semi-final with ERWFL Premier Division sides Acle United Women and Wymondham Town Ladies going head to head, an extremely tough game to call two strong sides. So to the other semi-final with Thorpe United Ladies twice winners of the County Cup themselves runaway leaders in Norfolk Women’s Division One at home to King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing on the league above ERWFL Division One. A huge incentive for everyone today to get the opportunity to play at Carrow Road, the job might be trying to avoid that distraction and concentrate on the job in hand.
Thorpe United Ladies are 15 points clear at the top of the league with just the one defeat in 11 played. The squad a good blend of experience and young talent. Have enjoyed themselves in the County Cup since it stood alone from Suffolk in the 2013/14 season have reached the final on four consecutive occasions two losses against Norwich City Ladies and then Acle United on penalties before back to back wins against Aylsham Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies. Last season the exception an early exit to eventual winners Wymondham. A bye in the 1st Round were at home to fellow Division One sides Gorleston Ladies in the 2nd Round 2-2 after extra-time Thorpe won through on penalties. That set up a home tie against another Gorleston side Gorleston Rangers Ladies from Division Two, Thorpe comfortably winning the quarter final game 10-0 to book their place in the last 4 of the competition.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies have never reached the County Cup final. Have risen rapidly through the leagues in their short history. Starting as Lynn Ladies merged with King’s Lynn Town FC, are now into their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL. In mid-table with a bit of a fixture backlog partly due to a their involvement in the County Cup. Began with an away trip to play Norfolk Division One side Sprowston Ladies, a 3-0 win were drawn at home to Dereham side Tavern Ladies in the 2nd Round ran out 6-1 winners to find themselves with another away trip to Sprowston in the quarter finals playing Sprowston Athletic Ladies from Division One that tie twice postponed due to the weather King’s Lynn safely negotiating the tie with a 4-0 win to reach the semi-finals.
The venue for today’s semi-final the Thorpe Recreation Ground, a large playing field home to a number of sporting clubs and activities. A number of pitches, a large open space can be bitterly cold if the wind is blowing but today it was much warmer hugely welcome, bright sunshine in a largely blue sky, just a slight breeze could leave the coat in the car for a change.
Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Molly Howes, Natasha Leversley, Shannon Miles, Holly Peck, Chloe Young, Joanne Hooper, Laura Hedtke, Aneliese Smith, Molly Yong & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Sharnie Boast & Kirstie Andrews.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Robinson, Shanice Burch, Annie Rooks, Charlotte Griffith, Georgia Freeman, Natalie Wright, Becky Russell (C), Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Oksana Imanalijeva, Tiffany Forshaw & Rochelle Woods. Subs – Emma Corbyn, Olivia Baker & Chloe Burch.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
A depleted starting line-up for Thorpe with a few key players missing, with a couple of injury concerns taking to the field and another having not played for quite a while. King’s Lynn themselves welcome back captain Becky Russell, playing again 9 weeks after giving birth to son Charlie, she played for Thorpe for several seasons too. Norfolk FA supplying 3 officials for the game. Thorpe to get the tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing pink shirts with black shorts and socks. King’s Lynn with blue shirts, yellow shorts and socks.
The hosts send the ball up to the right channel goalkeeper Bryony Robinson out of her area to kick the ball clear. King’s Lynn look to build from the back the ball played across the pitch left to right, Natasha Leversley putting in the tackle for Thorpe to win the ball back from Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the right wing for the visitors.
The ball won in the centre of the park Russell sends it on through the middle for attacker Rochelle Woods a cushioned headers carrying the ball on into the area she gives chase right of goal, is closed down by Shannon Miles the defender challenging Woods, a corner the result. Hopkins-Duckhouse to take played low into the box near side Russell coming towards in sweeps the ball out of the area towards Natalie Wright position 25 yards out central doesn’t connect with her 1st time shot cleanly the ball hooked wide of goal.
Hopkins-Duckhouse lively on the right early on for King’s Lynn picks up the ball tries to drive in field is instead forced wider by Leversley still manages to get a high ball looping into the area dropping far post, goalkeeper Cara Anderson taking it on the bounce despite being clattered by the onrushing Woods. Shaping up to be a good contest from the start, Thorpe aiming to get the ball up for captain Rebekah Lake the forward active across the whole front line making it difficult for one defender keep tabs on her.
Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake looking to get in behind the defence
Wright and Russell combine in the middle slick passing before Russell opens up her body to slide a pass in behind for Hopkins-Duckhouse running in behind, the pass a little heavy allows Anderson to gather inside her area, Thorpe quick to turn the play around Molly Young on the left with the early ball over the top, for Lake the striker after it, Robinson out of her area sharply once again to kick the ball away. Kin’g Lynn with a free-kick on halfway the ball up towards the top of the area into Woods she looks to turn and shoot the effort sliced is intercepted and cleared by Holly Peck.
Thorpe United Ladies, Holly Peck
King’s Lynn push on the right a throw won top of the area played into Russell she turns sends the ball in central to Tiffany Forshaw takes on the first time shot the ball spinning away off target. Laura Hedtke pushing on for Thorpe with the ball inside the King’s Lynn half aims to release Lake ahead of her, Georgia Freeman cuts it out for King’s Lynn. Pressure from King’s Lynn in the final third a pass for Hopkins-Duckhouse on the right intercepted by Leversley the ball not away a bit of pinball sees it pop loose central Forshaw 25 yards out running onto it can’t keep her strike down.
King’s Lynn have Thorpe pushed back defending their box the ball popping around with not one given anytime on the ball falls to Russell 25 yards out left of the D catches the shot well on the half volley the ball swerving through the air on target favours Anderson as it the goalkeeper ends up right behind it to make the catch. Lake drives forwards on the ball, into the right channel wants to come inside instead is pushed wide by Charlotte Griffith, still manages to get a ball in towards goal the angle against her Robinson getting her gloves on it concedes the corner.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Becky Russell
Russell is tackled by Joanne Hooper the ball out to Chloe Young right on for Lake her touch giving Annie Rooks the opportunity to slide in take the ball away for a throw. Oksana Imanalijeva on the left for King’s Lynn plays the ball inside for Woods the strike looks to play it on for Hopkins-Duckhouse bursting into the box on the right, Peck and Leversley close her down regain possession for Thorpe. Hedtke is doing well to pick out Lake ahead of her she in turn looking to turn the King’s Lynn defence, Shanice Burch sliding in to win the ball for the visitors.
GOAL! Just past the half hour the dead lock is broken, King’s Lynn taking the lead the ball over on the left the in field ball coming to Forshaw 25 yards out seeing it across her body strikes it sweetly the sun at her back the ball flies in towards the top corner over Anderson and into the back of the net 0-1.
Tiffany Forshaw with Thorpe’s Chloe Young
Thorpe get down the other end a free-kick won outside the area on the left Hedtke over it the deliver long towards the far post area just evades the onrushing attackers. Thorpe make a change with Hooper the player coming off on comes Sharnie Boast. Peck with another piece of smart defending inside the area for Thorpe does well against Hopkins-Duckhouse as Russell plays a great ball to her from halfway. Hedtke in to block wins the ball in the centre circle lifts it on for Lake to attack in behind Robinson is off her line quickly claiming it at the top of the area.
Rooks with the ball on for Imanalijeva on the left the Lithuanian international coming inside is tackled by Thorpe’s Molly Howes the defender sliding in to take the ball. Aneliese Smith helps the ball onto to Hedtke in the middle Molly Young to her left the ball knocked into the channel, Freeman intercepts for King’s Lynn. Griffiths then goes in high catching Lake as she threatens to get into the box from the right, a free-kick awarded in a dangerous position, Hedtke on it a bouncing ball in the six yard box skips up for Molly Young far post gets her head to the ball but can only place the ball into Robinson’s gloves.
Hopkins-Duckhouse’s first touch sees her push the ball inside evading her marker travels further infield before unleashing a shot 20 yards out swerving through the air Anderson throws herself to her right, the ball just wide of the post. King’s Lynn finishing the 1st half strongly the ball won from a goalkick by Russell played into Woods in the area controls well a touch to shift it to her left and turn into a shot the attempt up over the crossbar.
Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 0-1 King’s Lynn Town Ladies
A narrow lead for King’s Lynn at half-time Tiffany Forshaw’s strike the difference between the sides. The visitors creating more in the final third have played well as a unit. Thorpe defending well have been under pressure Lake their outlet up front has lacked support, but is always likely to make something happen. King’s Lynn out onto the pitch early will need another goal you would think, Thorpe with only one defeat this season and that just 1-0 aren’t out of it by any stretch. The sun beginning to set a further problem for the teams to deal with 2nd half.
Bryony Robinson with the save for King’s Lynn
Thorpe to get the 2nd half underway. Right from the off both sides a closing the ball down quickly. Forshaw and Imanalijeva look to link play on the left, Howes defends well for Thorpe. Up the other end Thorpe win a corner on the left off a free-kick the ball cleared back to the taker comes back into the box Robinson taking the dropping ball well under pressure inside her six yard box. The visitors break Imanalijeva on the left wing bursting forwards swings an early cross into the box Woods six yards out central is put under pressure by Miles, the ball dropping to Forshaw at the far post she stabs the ball forwards puts it wide.
Thorpe United Ladies, Shannon Miles
Good build-up play from King’s Lynn on the right the ball inside to Russell 20 yards out she shoots the strike straight at Anderson the keeper holding onto the ball. A corner to Thorpe on the left the ball played in central met by Leversley she turns it goalwards her effort cleared off the line, King’s Lynn attempt to break a crunching 50/50 on halfway between Miles and Griffith, Thorpe get the free-kick, Hedtke to play the ball forwards Russell winning the header inside the box.
Less chances being created 2nd half, Hedtke in a deeper role for Thorpe, King’s Lynn are dealing with Lake better. Russell with the pass forwards for Woods outside the area right of the D turns well shoots the attempt wide across goal. Imanalijeva with a couple of surging runs 2nd half pushes on well down the left in behind sends a cross in along the top of the area is behind Forshaw runs on for Hopkins-Duckhouse taking it into her stride lets fly with a shot the ball wide at the near post.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Oksana Imanalijeva
The chances are adding up for King’s Lynn pushing on down the right the ball on for Woods takes it to the byline cuts it back to the top of the area with Imanalijeva running onto the shot can’t keep it down. Forshaw with the ball forwards Imanalijeva the target with a run into the box left of goal six yards out her 1st touch lifting the ball inside over Miles the defender preventing Imanalijeva from shooting. Another change for Thorpe Smith coming off on comes Kirstie Andrews. Imanalijeva seeing alot of the ball now pushes down the left wing cuts it across the top of the area for Woods with her back to goal lays it back to Hopkins-Duckhouse who hits the shot from 20 yards out sees the ball race over the bar.
Thorpe’s Molly Young with King’s Lynn’s Rochelle Woods
The pressure building from King’s Lynn chances coming and going Thorpe have had little for the attack themselves 2nd half. Working hard concede a corner on the right a good delivery from Hopkins-Duckhouse into the six yard box straight to Forshaw, gets too much power into the shot her hands go to her face as she sends the ball over the bar.
Lake has the ball on the left wing drives on gets inside Boast making a run top of the area that side Lake sends the ball across Boast carrying it into the box King’s Lynn defenders slide in Boast it up ended as the challenge comes in the ball just about taken as both defender and Boast need treatment. Play resumes Lake with the ball wide right needs support in the box isn’t there as she gets a cross in.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Natalie Wright holding of Thorpe,s Sharnie Boast
Wright winning the ball left on for Imanalijeva takes it on down the line plays in a cross near post Woods closely marked by Miles manages to get her head on the ball but it drops wide of the mark. Imanalijeva comes off for King’s Lynn on comes Emma Corbyn. Forshaw with Woods pushing on central out to Hopkins-Duckhouse right side she drills a shot in on the angle Anderson pushing it behind at the near post for a corner the game entering the last 10 minutes.
Rochelle Woods with the header for King’s Lynn Town Ladies
King’s Lynn giving away free-kicks, Hedtke on the ball left side plays it in high to the near post Robinson gloves it down claiming it at the 2nd attempt. Burch with a great lunging tackle to take the ball away from Lake as she enters the box almost played through by Hedtke.
GOAL! Hedtke wins Thorpe a fee-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out left of the area. The ball played in towards the goal Robinson clawing it down the ball half cleared out to the left fired back in blocked by the rising Forshaw rebounds back out to the left and is smashed home by Boast to level the scores 1-1.
Frustration for King’s Lynn, joy for Thorpe the visitors had their chances weren’t taken and Thorpe level the scores game on with a little over 5 minutes of normal time left to play. King’s Lynn attack from the restart Forshaw on for Corbyn left side her high cross into the area cleared by Peck. A cross from the right side is cleared straight to King’s Lynn’s Wright 25 yards out right of the D meets it well the strike narrowly wide across goal.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Charlotte Griffith
Griffith with a vital interception for King’s Lynn as the game become stretched in the closing moments, a late change for the visitors Imanalijeva returning for Corbyn on the left. Thorpe with a series of corners late on the 3rd one bringing the 90 minutes to an as we enter extra-time.
Full time Thorpe United Ladies 1-1 King’s Lynn Town Ladies
An entertaining game King’s Lynn had the chances to be out of sight 2nd half but didn’t take them, Thorpe in contrast with a backs to the wall performance finding a levelling goal late in the game. An extra 30 minutes to try and decide the winner or it’ll be settled by penalties.
Extra-time
King’s Lynn with the setting sun low in the sky at their backs have kick-off in the 1st period of extra-time. Imanalijeva with the ball left tries to push on but can’t get the better of Boast. Imanalijeva played on by Rooks goes with the early diagonal ball for Hopkins-Duckhouse in the opposite flank, the ball just evading her as she breaks into the box.
GOAL! Come from a Thorpe goalkick the ball intercepted by Woods she heads it down right side and drives into the box towards the byline cuts the cross back across the face of goal and finds Forshaw unmarked to rise and header the ball down past Anderson from six yards out 1-2.
A positive start to extra-time from King’s Lynn press the attack Hopkins-Duckhouse upended a free-kick to King’s Lynn left side Russell with the diagonal ball into the area, Forshaw gets her head to it with Anderson coming in, the flag up for offside however play halted. Woods gets in behind on the right her cross too long for Imanalijeva coming in far post retrieves and looks to set up Forshaw inside the area her touch lifting the shot over.
GOAL! A free-kick defended Griffith carries the ball forwards for King’s Lynn into the Thorpe half sends it on for Hopkins-Duckhouse wide right is pushed wide, holds it up well in the corner gets support from Russell the ball played back to the central midfielder on the wing she swings in a cross that evades Anderson’s glove at her near post Forshaw running in behind with a simple close range tap in to complete her hat-trick and put King’s Lynn further in front 1-3.
A hat-trick for King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tiffany Forshaw
Griffith goes into the book for a tackle on Molly Young as she tries to take the ball on into the area. A free-kick 25 yards out on the angle left of the box Boast on it goes for goal on target but Robinson behind it gloves the ball down and holds. Wright with the ball on for Hopkins-Duckhouse up the line a low cross driven into the near post area Anderson cuts it out. Woods comes off for King’s Lynn on up front in her place Olivia Baker. Thorpe too with a late switch Hooper comes back on for Andrews.
Half-time extra-time Thorpe United Ladies 1-3 King’s Lynn Town Ladies
King’s Lynn getting the goals in the 1st half of extra-time with Forshaw completing her hat-trick to lead 3-1. Some much needed daylight alot for Thorpe to do as they get the 2nd period underway. The ball lost in the middle played on for Baker moving right is pushed wide by Leversley the cross comes in lacks power an easy gather for Anderson.
GOAL! Thorpe is brought down outside the area as she goes to retrieve the ball fired in from the left. 25 yards out Hedtke over it a good shooting position she takes it on a good strike the ball looping up threatening to drop under the bar, Robinson gets something on it but not enough to keep it out as it falls over the line. Game on once again 2-3.
The sun low now light starting to fade King’s Lynn with the lead try to run the clock down taking the ball into the corner Hopkins-Duckhouse holding it up well. Another change for King’s Lynn Forshaw comes off, on in her place Chloe Burch. A free-kick on the right for King’s Lynn taken early by Wright on for Imanalijeva central top of the box Miles stopping her initial effort the ball loose to the right Imanalijeva after it drives a shot against the post it cannons back out into the area before being hooked clear.
Hooper tries her luck form all of 35 yards out on the left plenty of power behind her shot, but straight at Robinson covering her near post. Thorpe with a free-kick wide left the delivery into the near post area helped on into the middle Rooks with the no nonsense clearance for King’s Lynn. The visitors press late on Imanalijeva left inside for Baker 20 yards out tries to tee up Russell, she is tackled. Russell regaining possession takes it into the corner the final whistle blows and King’s Lynn are through to their first ever County Cup Final.
Full time extra-time Thorpe United Ladies 2-3 King’s Lynn Town Ladies
An entertaining contest going all the way to extra-time, King’s Lynn with a narrow lead at half-time spurned chances in the 2nd half to put the tie to bed, Thorpe with a depleted squad putting in a great effort levelling the scores late in the game to force extra-time. King’s Lynn in the end needed Tiffany Forshaw’s hat-trick her two goals in the 1st period of extra-time crucial. King’s Lynn through to thier first County Cup Final and the first to be held at Carrow Road.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies through to their first ever County Cup Final
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, and boy this is a tough on was a great all round team performance from King’s Lynn hard to pick one player but one must be chosen those are my rules. Tiffany Forshaw got the all important goals her hat-trick securing King’s Lynn a place in the final. Becky Russell was influential in midfield. Oksana Imanalijeva a threat on the left especially 2nd half. On the right Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse was a threat all through the game driving on with the ball created opportunities and showed good hold up play to bring others into the game, she is my choice for the award.
Was spoilt for choice when selecting a County Cup match this Sunday and it seemed few disappointed. This one no exception. King’s Lynn will face holders Wymondham Town Ladies their game with Acle United Women ending 3-3 and going to penalties Wymondham winning 5-4 in the shootout. An enjoyable afternoon, congratulations to King’s Lynn and my thanks to both teams for their help with the teams always appreciated.
A spot of midweek football action this Wednesday evening with a trip up the A47 to watch the East Anglian Derby match between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women at Plantation Park the two sides meeting just 4 days after the men’s clubs went head to head at Carrow Road.
Both these sides stalwarts of the FAWNL South East Division One as it’s currently known have seen it’s many guises over recent season’s remains the 4th tier in the women’s football pyramid. Both East Anglian clubs with ambitions to climb out of Division One and into the Southern Premier Division above.
Ipswich lay in 7th spot going into this evenings game with Norwich a place and 2 points behind in what is a tightly contest league once again this season a real tussle for position in the middle of the table any team getting a run of results going likely to find themselves in the top 5 or higher such is the competition, Crawley Wasps Ladies aside who have a 100% after 10 played to lead the way look strong contenders for the title and promotion.
A change of coaching personnel towards the end of last for Norwich, Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team now. The side languishing at the wrong end of the season for a couple of seasons prior, have improved this campaign a good balance of youth and experience, fitness also worked on results and performances see them looking to push up the table instead off getting dragged into relegation zone. 4 wins to date in the league two of those coming under the lights including their 1st win of the season a 1-0 result away to Ipswich in the reverse fixture.
Carla Dickinson taking over as 1st team manager at Ipswich Town Women at the beginning of the season worked with Grant Palmer at Norwich prior to taking on the head coaches role. Taking charge of a side challenging at the top end of the league recently, has brought in several new faces to the squad, amongst them Toni-Anne Wayne now enjoying playing an outfield role after keeper goal for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies for a number of season prior. Midfielder Ceira Flatt joining from Acle United Women, with two new signings announced on the eve of this evenings derby, Amy Nash and Georgia Box joining from Billericay Town Ladies, a over that sees Kerry Stimson and Laken Duchar Clark head in the opposite direction. Recent form against Ipswich with just the one point collected from their last 4 league games.
A good atmosphere building at Plantation Park before the game the positive result for the Canaries on Sunday seeing the timing of this evenings derby match spot on, the club hoping the feel good factor will see an increased attendance and it looked positive with a crowd in excess of 230. The pitch at Plantation Park seeing plenty pf action, offering plenty of width is a good size the bar overlooking one goal a small seated stand along one side of the pitch. Has been a mild day, dry the evening air cooling but no chance of rain.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Tigi Robson, Alice Parker, Sasha Diston (C), Laura Tacker, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Kathryn Stanley & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Eliza McDonald, Keunna Dill, Christina Papadopolou, Rosie George & Chelsea Garrett.
Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Sian Fagg (C), Jac Ball, Gemma Moore, Hannah Petley, Florence Cage, Jordan Arnoup, Cassie Craddock, Natasha Thomas, Zoe Cossey, Amy Nash & Toni-Anne Wayne. Subs – Danni Clarke, Sophie Welton, Paige Wakefield, Ciera Flatt & Georgia Box.
New signing Amy Nash starts for Ipswich with fellow new signing Georgia Box on the bench for Ipswich the visitors kitted out in blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Norwich wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green banded socks the home side to kick off the game under the lights. The hosts playing the ball out to Aimee Durrant getting forwards on the right wing, Jac Ball dealing with the threat for Ipswich heading the ball back to goalkeeper Sian Fagg wearing the captains armband.
Ipswich get straight down the other end the ball played on for Toni_Anne Wayne moving out to the right squares the ball back across the top of the Norwich area for Natasha Thomas back to goal she helps it on into the path of Jac Ball racing on on the left takes on the shot from the angle hits it well rising her powerful strike smashes against the crossbar.
Norwich build from the back the ball played on up the left side Kathryn Stanley giving chase, Gemma Moore getting to the ball just before the attacker clears it for the throw. Norwich look to plough a path through the middle of the park Millie Daviss with support from Reeanna Cook and Natasha Snelling, Florence Cage and Hannah Petley playing in the centre of defence for Ipswich close the door break up the attack.
The ball intercepted at the back Laura Thacker for Norwich playing the ball into Jodie Drake in midfield, sees the ball into her feet well turns cleverly sending an over the top pass on for Durrant breaking right, Fagg reacts quickly getting out to lay claim to it before the winger can pounce. A good tempo to the game both sides looking to move the ball quickly, Ipswich pressing Norwich.
Daviss and Cook look to combine through the centre of midfield as they drive forwards a tackle seeing the ball pop loose into the path of Snelling she sends it on over the defence into the area, Durrant alert to it however Fagg can safely claim it first. Jordan Arnoup picking the ball up in midfield for Ipswich plays a good early ball out to the right for Amy Nash to go after, Alice Parker recovering to get across her the full back can see it out for a goal kick.
Zoe Cossey moving right keeps the ball well beating three players as she looks to come inside the Ipswich attackers shot saved by Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong at her near post the ball behind for a corner. The high ball in cleared back to the taker on the right side, Norwich winning in back look to counter, Cossey with a superb tackle regaining possession driving on from 30 yards out cuts inside closing in on the area unleashes a shot the dipping ball cannoning off the crossbar once gain.
A couple of over exuberant challenges coming in both sides getting on with it however. Ipswich continuing their bright start attack down the left side a driving run and shot from Ball, Armstrong coming across her goal claiming it. Norwich starting to gain a little momentum the ball won in the middle, Jodie Drake on for Cook she plays the pass on for Durrant breaking forwards on the right wing her cross/shot into the area held safely by Fagg at her near post.
GOAL! 15 minutes on the board and Norwich take the lead strong build-up play in the middle the move beginning with Cook a powerful run forwards on the ball support from Daviss to her right the two drive on the ball played into Snelling back to goal 20 yards out central, holds it up Cook continuing forward moves left the ball coming into her she controls to take the ball away from her body and setting herself curls a fine strike past the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.
Cook with good work to win the ball once again in the middle looks to release Stanley on the left side, Florence Cage getting out to her to tackle and regain the ball for Ipswich. Nash doing well on the right an experienced player able to get the ball in behind her full back the tempo remains high Norwich pacy in their build up play. Snelling peeling away to the left sees her cross into the area taken by Fagg. Cossey looking to take something happen in the final 3rd lays the ball inside for Cassie Craddock the midfielder closed down by Norwich captain Sasha Diston outside the area.
Daviss wins the ball in the midfield is quick to play the pass on for Snelling breaking forwards moving right, Ball defends for Ipswich. Snelling back to goal outside the area sees the ball into her feet holding off her marker lays in back for the onrushing Drake her shot charged down by Hannah Petley. Craddock with the pass to pick out Nash getting clear on the right she squared a cross along to top of the Norwich area the ball cleared by Laura Thacker before Wayne can reach it.
The ball is pinging about in midfield as players from both sides close each other down, Ipswich managing to get it clear on for Nash running away on the right closing in on the byline lays the ball back inside Wayne taking on the first time strike can’t keep her shot down. Cage with some great defensive work closing down Snelling as Stanley breaking on the right plays the ball inside to the attacker. Cook lifts the ball on central for Snelling looking to bring it down under control as she closes down Cage the Ipswich defender doing well under pressure to deny a shooting opportunity.
A free-kick for Ipswich wide right level with the top of the Norwich area the ball fired into Nash position top right hand corner she drives a shot in through the crowd, Armstrong seeing it late down well to parry it away the ball loose latched onto by Thomas hits it hard close range Armstrong making another great stop to stop Ipswich levelling the scores with less than 10 minutes of the 1st half left to play.
Norwich get up the other end a throw won on the right dropped into Daviss she surges forwards knocking the ball on trying to get into the area Snelling with her the door shut the ball cleared is latched onto by either Cook or Drake 25 yards out a low shot driven in coming through bodies Fagg is well positioned to drop and claim the ball. Norwich finishing the half well pushing forwards Stanley into Snelling more good hold up play before sending the pass out to Drake making a run right of her takes on the shot lacks the power trouble Fagg. A good tackle from Tigi Robson stops a late Ipswich attack as the visitors look to break in behind on the wing.
Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-0 Ipswich Town Women
Norwich holding the slender lead at the break. The game played at a good tempo the half racing by. Ipswich starting well striking the woodwork twice and denied too with a terrific double save from Armstrong. Norwich grew into the game good build-up play purposeful and with pace Cook taking her goal very well to see the hosts leading. All set up for another intriguing 45 minutes play.
Norwich making a change at half-time Stanley the player subbed on comes Chelsea Garrett, making her return after a 3 month long injury lay off. It’s Ipswich to get things underway in the 2nd half.
GOAL! The ball played out to the right wing, Robson over that side now winning the ball for Norwich put up field centrally Garrett running onto the ball breaks in behind and races for the box let’s fly from the top of the area the ball racing past Fagg and into the back of the net, a perfect start to the 2nd half for Norwich and a scoring return for Garrett moments after coming on 2-0.
A blow for Ipswich right at the start of the 2nd half, no time to get into place any game plan talked about at half-time. Norwich gaining confidence Durrant getting clear on the right wing driving on sweeps a cross in centrally, Cook getting her head on it top of the area left of the D the ball looping up and wide of goal. Cossey as busy as ever in the middle off the park gaining possession running on putting the ball on into Wayne she spins tries to play the ball on for Nash to get in behind on the right, just too much weight on the pass.
Cossey central brings the ball on laying it out to Nash left of her outside the Norwich area Arnoup central, Nash plays her in she sends it out for Thomas breaking into the area to her right comes inside shooting from close range Armstrong making the blocking save. Ipswich make their first change of the game with Craddock coming of Paige Wakefield coming on. Garrett adding a threat centrally in attack for Norwich, Snelling coming left the midfielders sitting back more. Thomas pushes on down the right, in behind Robson, Diston coming across slides into the challenge the ball out for a throw. Cossey gathering the ball turns and drives towards the top of the area, strikes the ball well her effort fired wide across Armstrong’s goal.
Durrant is finding space on the right as Ipswich push up played in behind she is quick on the ball taking it down the line fires an inviting ball into the six yard box Garrett their looks set to turn it in but for the timely arrival of Moore the right back with a fine piece of defensive work in a dangerous area. Ipswich with a throw high on the right into Wayne given to Cossey she comes inside along the top of the area slips as she goes to shoot the ball harmlessly through to the keeper. Nash this time wide on the left for Ipswich taking the ball to the byline fires a ball in across goal Wayne meeting it first time the shot blocked Thomas closed down as she tries to latch onto the loose ball.
Just over an hour played and Nash’s work is done for the evening a good debut. Her replacement Sophie Welton who takes up a position on the right. Soon after Norwich make their 2nd change Snelling coming off on comes Christina Papadopolou, the Greek player making her 3rd appearance for Norwich. 65 minutes played.
Norwich playing the better 2nd half pushing forwards well as a unit win a corner right side the ball delivered into Garrett position central outside the box turns the ball into the box her low strike racing wide of goal. Ipswich win a free-kick inside the Norwich half, Arnoup over the ball plays it high into the box, Diston under it heading firmly clear for Norwich. The game opening up Ipswich counter attack Wakefield getting furthest forwards tries to take the ball on into the area is stopped by Thacker, Norwich turning the attack around counter themselves Durrant still full of energy bursting away right side fires a low cross into the area Cook meeting it 8 yards out her near post shot saved well by Fagg pushed behind for the corner.
Norwich are getting stronger as the 2nd half progresses Ipswich looking a little disjointed are getting out of shape a few last gasp challenges made as Garrett breaks forwards with support to her left and right, Arnoup going into the book following a strong tackle sliding in 25 out. The resulting shot from the free-kick dropping wide of goal. Welton getting forwards on the right for Ipswich her cross into the box gets through the defensive comes into Thomas unexpectedly gets a first time shot away the attempt sliced wide of goal.
Durrant clear again right side as a deflected ball in the middle loops in behind the Ipswich defence, Cage and then Ball get back to defend, trying to get out Norwich close the ball down regain possession in the final third the cross played in Garrett with the shot central the ball claimed by Fagg. Cossey has picked up a knock comes off with 12 minutes to go, Georgia Box coming on to make her Ipswich debut. Durrant is showing no signs of fatigue breaks away right again lays the ball in central Garrett attempting a deft header for Papadopolou, the ball headed clear by Petley.
Wakefield links up with Welton on the right for Ipswich the midfielder laying the ball out to the winger receiving the return pass inside the area her shot held by Armstrong covering her near post. Norwich remain lively win a corner right side a good delivery into the six yard box Fagg doing well amongst the crowd to get a firm fist on the ball. The ball collected far side the ball back in a tackle seeing it deflected behind for another corner, Norwich taking the opportunity to make a change it’s the taker Durrant coming off, on in her place a Keumma Dill for her first Norwich appearance studying at the University of East Anglia is a Burmudian International.
The corner coming in high claimed by Fagg she launches an attack Ipswich getting the ball out to the right, Parker over that side winning the tackle for Norwich the ball out for a throw, end to end in the closing stages of the game, Garrett breaking with the ball tackled by Cage, the ball put up field Box has it left outside the box Ball around her on the overlap played in her low cross fired into the area cleared by the back tracking Drake.
GOAL! Into the final five minutes a free-kick to Norwich on halfway the ball played out to the left onto the path of Cook the young midfielder driving forwards turning towards the area and shoots a powerful strike racing past Fagg into the bottom corner to assure the 3 points for Norwich 3-0.
The hosts remain full of energy Cook combining through the middle with Garrett central Cage putting an end to the move. Dill with the ball right cuts it inside with Cook running on, she attempt to slide the ball into the area for Garrett, Fagg can lay claim to it before the attacker. One last attack for Ipswich the ball played on Wayne doing well chasing it down top of the area holding it up getting the pass into Box arriving left side her shot scooped up into the area taken cleanly by Armstrong.
Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Ipswich Town Women
A 3-0 win to Norwich the 3 points seeing them leap frog Ipswich in the South East Division One and leaves them just a point off the top half. By far the stronger side in the 2nd half an early goal in the 2nd period helping the cause working well together gaining confidence and maintaining great energy levels throughout. Enjoy playing under the lights this their 3rd league win this season in mid-week. Buoyed by a good sized crowd wiling them on. Were clinical in their chances with 3 well taken goals.
Ipswich starting the game well creating opportunities and could have had the lead themselves. Became a little disjointed as the game wore on not reading each other as well as Norwich were, individuals at times plenty of talent it wasn’t happening for them tonight.
Breaking news as I finish up this match report with Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role as Head Coach, sorry to hear and wish Carla all the best for the future.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders for Norwich, will mention Zoe Cossey for Ipswich first some great runs with the ball is hard to tackle when she gets going created several openings. For Norwich a fine double stop from Hope Armstrong. Aimee Durrant might have stopped running by now a threat on the right all game especially 2nd half. Chelsea Garrett with a immediate attack kept the Ipswich defence busy. Reeanna Cook gets the award however with some fantastic work in midfield winning the ball getting involved in the forward play adding pace and urgency to the attack and taking her two goals superbly.
An enjoyable game under the lights good to see a decent crowd, my thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams.
One match beating the weather in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday with Netherton United Ladies beating local rivals Riverside Ladies for the 2nd successive game to move up to 4th position in the table with their 4th win of the season. A 4-0 home win at the end of January, Netherton were the visitors this Sunday goals from Emma Johnson and Clare Gallagher securing the 3 points with a 2-0 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
A big game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with the top two both with 100% records going head to head, Wisbech Town Ladies hosting Ketton Ladies. Had met earlier in the season that game however abandoned with Ketton leading 4-1 due to injury. A late switch to 3G to enable this Sundays’ meeting to go ahead. Wisbech enjoying some good spells found the back of the net for one goal but it wasn’t enough as Ketton found the back of their opponents net for 3 goals to see them go top on goal difference. Claire Lawrenson, Sascha Smith and Beth Goodman getting the goals to make it 7 wins from that in the North7.
A 3rd win of the season sees Cardea Ladies move above Wisbech St Mary Ladies into 3rd position in the Championship North on Sunday. Cardea at home taking on Wisbech St Mary the sides fighting out a goalless draw at half-time, t was Wisbech St Mary who opening the scoring 2nd half going 1-0 in the 55th minute. Cardea responding well with captain Laura Ruddy firing in the equaliser 5 minutes later, another 5 minutes played and Cardea were in the lead Ruddy scoring again to make it 2-1. 15 minutes left and Ruddy had the ball in the back of the net again to complete her hat-trick. Wisbech St Mary pulling a goal back to make it 3-2 with 8 minutes left and set up a nervous finish to the game Cardea holding out to get the 3 points.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
The battle for top spot in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South is just a tense as the top two both won at the weekend in the two games taking place in the league on Sunday. Leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies remain 6 points clear of 2nd placed St Ives Town Development. Were at home to Isleham United Ladies. Kayleigh Nolan top scoring for Haverhill in the match netting a hat-trick takes her onto 11 for the season. Joeli Kirby fine goal scoring form also continues, a brace at the weekend against Isleham taking her tally to 28 goals now. There were debut goals too for two players Michelle Matthews and Kiera Ince. The final score 10-1 the other goal scorers for Haverhill, Amy Evans, Elicia Cooper and Bethany-May Harding.
St Ives Town Ladies Development were away to Burwell Tigers Ladies in the league this Sunday like Haverhill have just the one defeat this season that on the opening day against Haverhill. Returned the favour to inflict Haverhill’s only league defeat back in October. A comfortable win for St Ives with Fran Worrall and Jade Carpenter both scoring hat-tricks against Burwell, Carpenter’s 3 goals seeing her take over as the leading goal scorer on 13. Kirsty Wicks also getting on the scoresheet with a goal for St Ives the visitors winning 7-0. 6 points behind Haverhill, with 2 games in hand.
Like everywhere else across the country the over night rain affected the fixtures in the Essex Women’s County league’s with just 4 games surviving in all competitions with just the one league game being played in the Premier Division this Sunday. That game saw Corringham Cosmos at home to bottom club Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves who travelled with just the 10 available. Corringham struggling for players themselves at times this season have only won two games previously one of those against Brentwood, their last league win back in October. Michelle Sumpter getting Corringham off to a good start opened the scoring in the 10th minute went on to add a further 2 goals before half an hour was played to complete a 1st half hat-trick, Nicole-Marie Mitchell also scoring for Corringham in the 40th minute to see them comfortably leading 4-0 at the break. A quieter 2nd period, Corringham extending the lead with 20 minutes to go with top scorer Rebecca Gallagher celebrating her 13th goal of the season. Charlotte Anderson puling a goal back for Brentwood with 15 to go lose 5-1 and remain without a point on the board. Corringham up to 6th off the back of their 3rd league win of the season.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two games played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday, and incredible 21 goals scored between both. 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies getting themselves into a strong position at half-time away to Runwell Sports Ladies in Sunday holding a 4-0 lead went on to add another goal in the 2nd period to further strengthen their 2nd placed position. Nicole Doyle-Love hitting a brace for Dagenham & Redbridge, their was a goal each too for Morgan Duffield, Jodie Barden and Grace Tebb-Reading the later pair both moving onto double figures for the season.
In the other game played in Division One on Sunday Rayleigh Town Ladies were at home to FC Clacton Ladies the sides sharing 16 goals between them, an incredible scoreline would be rough on the losing side. Jasmine Cox making her first start for FC Clacton marking her debut with 4 goals, Lauren Lucas scoring twice for the visitors with Charlotte Warren also getting a goal. 7 for the visiting side however wasn’t enough to see them get anything from the game. Rayleigh Town Ladies are scoring plenty of goals themselves the bulk of these coming from captain Isabelle Wallings she now has an incredible 40 goals to herself as she rattled in a further 4 goals against Clacton. Wallings not the only goalscorer in Rayleigh’s squad, Eleasha Reeves getting in on the goal scoring claiming a hat-trick to take her onto 16 goals for the campaign. 16 goals too for Megan Harley as she added a goal on Sunday along wit Holly Gash who has 15 now, Rayleigh Town climbing above FC Clacton and Runwell Sports Ladies up into 4th position in the Division One table courtesy off a 9-7 victory.
Essex Women’s League Cup
One outstanding tie from the 2nd Round of the Essex Women’s League Cup to be played this Sunday with Division One side Hutton Ladies Reserves away to Premier Division side, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. With their 1st team not in action Hutton were able to call on the services of Victoria Kinsman the striker in prolific form in front of goal this season scoring plenty in the ERWFL she was on target for a double hat-trick this Sunday against Beacon Hill Rovers. Baylie Kingsnorth and Cassandra Piejko also getting a goal a piece along with Gemma Stubbles getting her 1st goal of the season for Hutton in a 9-2 win. Jo Smeaton with both the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers.
The draw for the quarter finals has been made the ties listed below to be played Sunday 3rd March with a 1:30pm kick-off:-
Collier Row Tigers v Leigh Ramblers Ladies
Southend United Ladies v Hutton Ladies Reserves
Chigwell Ladies v Runwell Sports Ladies
Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves v Harlow Town Ladies Development
It doesn’t happen very often but this time of year the weather plays it’s part to hit the fixtures and sometimes it’s simply easiest to combine all or some of the weekends Round-Up’s into a collective post. This Sunday there were just two fixtures played in Norfolk, Suffolk and 3 in Beds & Herts so they get to share this edition. Water logged pitches being the theme.
Norfolk
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Just three games scheduled in Norfolk anyway those in Division Two that was reduced to two with the rain seeing the match between Hockering Ladies & Tavern Ladies postponed. League leaders Taverham United Women were away on Sunday there opponents Horsford Women. Taverham unbeaten winning their last 10 league games in a row are scoring plenty of goals with Rebecca Sutton and Abbie Walker slugging it out for top goal scorer. Walker getting herself another hat-trick this Sunday, Sutton waded in with 5 goals, a total of 55 goals between them now, Sutton on 29, Walker on 26 both with 14 appearances. A hat-trick too for Maya Lawlor on Sunday takes her into double figures for the season for Taverham. Charlotte Hurren and Teigan Robinson also getting a goal each as Taverham extend their lead at the top of the Division Two table with a 13-0 to 7 points over Fakenham Town Ladies who do have two matches in hand.
In the other match played in Division Two this Sunday, Bulldogs Ladies fresh from their 1st win of the season last Sunday travelled to the East coast to player Gorleston Rangers Ladies, in 5th position. A goal in each half from Abigail Bell seeing Gorleston Rangers record a 2-0 win their 6th of the season to take them level on points with 4th placed Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies.
Suffolk
Suffolk Women’s Division
4 matches scheduled for the Suffolk Women’s Division Division this Sunday including the two League Cup semi-finals, both of those games postponed will be replayed on Sun 24th February instead. Those ties featuring the top 4 in the league itself.
Two league games did get played and it was another positive result for Woodbridge Town Ladies their 3rd straight league win to help them consolidate their 5th placed position in the Suffolk Women’s Division. A reverse of last Sunday’s fixture were away to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies then securing a comfortable 5-0 win. A different story at Chantry Grasshoppers the sides all square at 1-1 at half-time Woodbridge scoring again in the 2nd half to win the game 2-1. Kiera Hines and Kirsten Spooner with her first Woodbridge goal the scorers for the visiting side. Charlotte Archer on target in the first half for Chantry Grasshoppers.
A high scoring game between University of Suffolk Women and Walsham Le Willows on Sunday. Walsham travelling to the bottom placed side with just the 10 players available. A mixed bag of form for Walsham this season, hasn’t stopped top scorer Laura Brame from finding the back of the net more often than not scored another hat-trick on Sunday to move onto 20 for the season. Also scoring a hat-trick for Walsham on Sunday was Emma Marie Baker her first goals for the side too n just her 2nd appearance. Lisa Pratt and Kirsty Pollard both getting a goal a piece too as Walsham ran out 8-3 winners in the game taking them back into 6th spot.
Beds & Herts
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
It was a limited league programme in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division this Sunday anyway with cup action taking president. One game taking place in Division One saw defending champions St Albans Ladies at home to title chasing Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. Sophie Hull scoring in the 13th minute giving St Albans an early lead. The hosts working hard defensively to keep their opponents at bay were unlucky to concede right at the death, Hemel Hempstead’s top scorer Natasha McConville striking late in the game to secure a point with her 18th goal of the season. That only adds to the intrigue at the top of the league with there now being a 3 way tie at the top with Northwood Ladies, Hemel Hempstead and Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires all on 19 points!
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One game also in Division Two this Sunday and that sees new leaders as Hitchin Belles replace local rivals Hitchin Town at the top for the 1st time this season. Hitchin Belles winning for the 9th time this season on the road on Sunday taking in Bedford Ladies Development. Have a potent attack with Katie White keeping the lead in the goal scoring charts netting a hat-trick on Sunday taking her onto 17 for the season. Charlotte Peters has 14 to her name claiming a brace at the weekend, Amy Jack and Keira How also amongst the goals this season both on target with their 13th and 9th goals respectfully Hitchin Belles winning 7-1.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
For the 2nd Sunday in a row the weather played havoc with The Chris Renshaw Cup competition the rescheduled cup ties once again hit by the wet conditions the day before. 5 2nd Round ties set for this Sunday in the end just the one survived that saw Division Three high flyers Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses at home to Sherrardswood Ladies struggling for form in Division One this season. A goal from Charlotte Bedford along with a penalty struck home by Victoria Harrold seeing Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses advance to the quarter finals.
