The ERWFL was again hit by the weather games falling foul of water logged pitches in both the Premier Division & Division One. Two games in the Premier Division although one of those was abandoned due to a head injury. Bedford Ladies were leading 2-1 away to Haringey Borough when striker Julia Carruthers suffered the injury and was admitted to hospital has since thankfully been given the all clear, the time of abandonment differing between clubs it has been listed as A-A on the full-time website will update if that changes.
One game going the distance then Wymondham Town Ladies fifth in the table at home to fellow promoted side Harlow Town Ladies. The Norfolk side taking a 10th minute lead with striker Hannah Waters strong on the ball sending the ball into the back of the net to open the scoring. The Essex side responding well getting back level on the half hour then going on to take the lead, Chelsea Clarke lobbing the keeper from distance to level the scores back up late in the first half to see it all square at 2-2. Harlow getting the better of the 2nd half scoring twice more to come to make the long journey home with the 3 points the 4-2 victory seeing them climb into the top half of the table. Poppy Binding scoring twice for Harlow now has 13 for the season with Tayla Handscombe also on target along with a 1st goal for the season for Ellie Wallace. Not all bad for Wymondham either as they actually climb a place up to 4th now awarded the home win against Dunstable Ladies back in December.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding tie left to be played in the ERWFL Cup 3rd Round, Division One side Lawford Ladies making the trip to Hertfordshire to player Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies. A first half brace for Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 advantage for Colney Heath. A 3rd goal securing the win for the Premier Division side in the 2nd half Charlene Moreton scoring to send Colney Heath through the quarter finals of the competition.
Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton
ERWFL Division One
A switch to 3G saw one game beat the weather in ERWFL Division One on Sunday, King’s Lynn Town Ladies finally back in league action playing host to new league leaders St Ives Town Ladies. Unbeaten in the league and knowing 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies game had been called off the visitors from Cambridgeshire had an opportunity to open a 4 point lead up at the top of the table. An own goal giving St Ives an early lead, Kira Markwell making a great save to deny King’s Lynn an equaliser as they grew into the game. St Ives defending well doubled their lead through top scorer Tierney Coulson. 2-0 to St Ives at half-time. A strong start to the 2nd half from King’s Lynn it was St Ives who were to extend their lead on the hour Coulson lobbing the keeper for her 2nd of the game and 21st goal of the season to make it 3-0. Hannah Seymour-Shove extending St Ives lead 5 minutes later. 4-0 the final score harsh on King’s Lynn who although not finding the break through with a goal themselves made St Ives work for the win.
It was once again another weather affected weekend across the football fixtures lists with games called off at all levels. A limited programme in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with just the two games scheduled. Leaders, Chichester City Ladies were looking to extend their 5 point lead at the top of the table with a win away to mid-table Oxford United Women on Sunday. The sides goalless at half-time Chichester creating the better opportunities, Oxford’s Georgia Timms seeing an effort come back off the woodwork. Lucy Thomas making some excellent saves in goal for the hosts the dead lock was broken in the 66th minute Timms’ heading the ball into the back of the net from a corner her goal proving to be enough as Oxford kept Chichester out at the other end to win their 7th game of the season. Chichester with their 3rd defeat of the campaign.
Plenty of goals in the other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday between Watford FC Ladies and Portsmouth FC Women. The game played at Letchworth’s County Ground a new playing surface. Eilidh Currie was making her 100th appearance for Portsmouth. Watford opening the scoring with Helen Ward making it 1-0 on 21 minutes, and own goal a few minutes later seeing the advantage doubled. Portsmouth reducing the deficit with a minute left of the 1st half with Shannon Albuery scoring to make it 2-1.
Half-time a 2-1 lead for Watford two quick goals at the start of the 2nd period putting the hosts into a strong positing Ward getting her 2nd of the game on 46 minutes, turned assist for Leanne Bell to score just a couple of minutes later. The game far from over however as Portsmouth mounted a strong come back awarded a penalty just past the hour, Rachel Panting firing the ball home to make it 4-2, Rebecca Bath on the scoresheet for Portsmouth soon after to make it 4-3 set up a frantic finish the game in stoppage time when the visitors grabbed the equalising goal Katie James with the finish making it 4-4. Time for a winner with Watford responding straight away attacking the ball crossed along the face of goal finding Ward at the far post to tap the ball in and celebrate her hat-trick and a 5-4 victory for Watford that sees them back up to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table.
Watford FC Ladies, Helen Ward
FAWNL South East Division One
Two of the 4 games scheduled in FAWNL South East Division One beat the weather on Sunday. It was 4th at home to 2nd in the league at the weekend with Enfield Town Ladies hosting Billericay Town Ladies both sides enjoying a good season to date. Opportunities for both in the 1st half the scores remained goalless at the break. Enfield taking the lead early in the 2nd half with Eliza Diaz on target to make it 1-0. Billericay were giving a debut to goalkeeper Gemma Crowe, the Essex side responding quickly to falling a goal behind equalised and then went on to take a 2-1 lead themselves, Lindsey Morgan and Jay Blackie with the goals. Leyla Yahioglu introduced in the 64th minute to make her 1st appearance for Enfield celebrated the occasion by getting a goal with 10 minutes remaining to level the scores and see the sides share the points.
Is a tight race in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC with a chance to climb up into 3rd spot themselves if they could secure the win at home to struggling Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both keepers called into action Leyton Orient saw a Sophie Le Marchand effort ruled off for offside. Denham proving hard to break down took an early lead in the 2nd half with Meila D’Santos finding the bottom corner to make it 1-0 the visitors going 2-0 to the good with Emma Kern’s effort trickling over the line in the 55th minute. Denham working hard to keep their lead and win for just the 2nd time this season the 3 points much needed applying a little bit of pressure to the sides above.
FAWNL Plate
One game from the quarter finals of the FAWNL Pate competition this Sunday with Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies away to Stevenage Ladies from South East Division One. Stevenage having a few missing through injury including captain Paige Logie who has unfortunately suffered an ACL injury that will see her ruled out for the rest of the season. Despite thier injury problems Stevenage started the game well but against the run of play Gillingham took the lead scoring in the 23rd minute. An over the top ball seeing Gillingham double their lead, a 3rd goal coming early in the 2nd half Gillingham going on to win the game 4-0 to book their place in the last four.
Will be joined in the hat by West Bromich Albion Women who were 1-0 away winners against Barnsley Ladies this Sunday and Liverpool Feds Women from Northern Division One who beat Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women 2-0. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are at home to Keynsham Town Ladies this coming Sunday in the last Plate quarter final.
The weather effecting a large percentage of the women’s football fixtures last weekend with the FA Women’s Cup being no exception with 50% of the fixtures from the 4th Round postponed at the beginning of February, those fixture arranged to be played this Sunday the rain threatening a few but all of the 8 remaining ties were played, the 5th Round already drawn the winners knowing who they would face in the last 16 of the competition. 5 of the 8 ties involving sides who play or have played in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East.
It was a plum away draw in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup for FAWNL Southern Premier Division side, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, a 1-0 away win against Nottingham Forest Ladies of the Northern Premier Division seeing them up against FAWSL side, Liverpool FC Women. Kept the scores level for the first half an hour before a quick fire double from Laura Coombs and Courtney Sweetman-Kirk with her 10th goal of the season saw the FAWSL side take a 2-0 lead.
2-0 up at the break Liverpool were creating chances the lead extended on the hour when centre back Leandra Little headed the ball home for her first Liverpool goal. New signing Jemma Purfield making her debut scoring moments later her left foot strike making it 4-0. Ashley Hodson coming on for Liverpool in the 67th minute making her return after 9 months out injured, marked her return with a goal scoring with 10 minutes left, with Purfield adding a 6th goal for Liverpool in the final 5 minutes to see them safely through to the last 16 with a 6-0 win.
An all Championship tie in the 4th Round saw Lewes FC Women travelling to Dartford FC to play Millwall Lionesses who were without a win so far this season. A close game that got feisty towards the end Lewes pressing. Cards shown amongst them a red for Lewes Amy Taylor sent off in the 84th minute. The game looked to be heading into extra-time a late corner for Millwall the ball on the left played high into the box players forwards amongst them Grace Neville clear on the far side of the area meets the ball on the half volley rifling a shot into the back of the net and sending Millwall through to the 5th Round and an away tie against Liverpool with the clubs first victory of the season.
Cardiff City Ladies from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division were making the long trip up to the North East to take on Championship side Durham FC Women in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup. The welsh side falling behind within the opening 10 minutes as Abby Holmes nodded home at the far post to score her 1st goal for Durham. A chance for Cardiff to level from the penalty spot Kylie Nolan brought down inside the box up up take the spot kick her attempt saved by Durham keeper Megan Borthwick. Nolan recovering to score the equalising goal in the 23rd minute. 1-1 with a couple of minutes remaining in the first half Beth Hepple latching onto a shot after the ball is cleared off the line from a Sarah Wilson effort to see Durham retake the lead.
2-1 at half-time Sarah Robson was introduced to the action by Durham and made a immediate impact getting a goal in the 50th minute to extend the Championship sides lead. Further chances fell the win not made fully secure until the final 10 minutes with Zoe Ness scoring a late brace to see Durham run out 5-1 winners and progress to the last 16 where they will be making a long trip themselves to take on FAWSL side Bristol City WFC.
A late switch of pitches saw the game between Loughborough Foxes Women of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and Sheffield United Women of the FA Women’s Championship go ahead. Jodie Bartle returning to the side for Loughborough after a 3 month injury lay off. A lively start both goalkeepers called into action Alethea Paul firing Sheffield into the lead with 14 minutes played. Sam Tierney then striking the crossbar for the visitors. Amy Burle in goal for Loughborough making some good saves to keep Sheffield’s lead down to a single goal at the break. The Championship side creating chances doubled their advantage within the first 10 minutes of the 2nd half Sami Veatriki scoring to make it 2-0. Sheffield defending their lead to book their place in the last 16 with a trip to Aston Villa Ladies awaiting.
It when all the way to penalties in the game between Charlton Athletic Women and Huddersfield Town Ladies in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. Both sides currently 2nd in their respective leagues, Charlton doing very well in their debut season in the Championship, Huddersfield in the FAWNL Northern Premier Division. Charlton taking an early lead in the match with Kit Graham finding the back of the net in the 6th minute. Charlotte Gurr adding Charlton’s 2nd in the 34th minute. The hosts enjoying the better of the 1st half Lily Agg seeing two goals ruled off for off-side. Charlton further extending their lead midway through the 2nd half with Graham getting on the scoresheet for her 2nd goal of the afternoon.
Charlton 3-0 up with the game closing in of the final 15 minutes, Huddersfield mounted an extraordinary comeback to send the game into extra-time two quick goals setting up a nervous end to the game with Brittany Sanderson making it 3-1, Laura Elford lobbing the keeper moments later for 3-2. The come back complete with 5 minutes left on the clock captain Katie Mallin with the goal to send the game into extra-time. No further goals added the sides heading into a penalty shootout. Huddersfield’s Laura Carter saving Charlton’s 2nd penalty her teammates all with successful spot kicks to win the shootout 5-4 and send them into the last 16 with an away trip to FAWSL’s West Ham United Women.
The 5th Round games being played this coming Sunday 17th February below the draw in full:-
Just the two fixtures surviving in the Cambridgeshire Women’s League this Sunday due to the weather both in the cup. Wisbech Town Ladies top of the Championship North away to fellow league side Cardea Ladies in the last remaining quarter final of the Division One Cup. Wisbech Town getting off to a flyer with Sophie Swinden scoring after just 3 minutes, the visitors going on add a further 3 goals through Chelsea King, captain Faye Kowalewsky then Chloe Stanborough to see them leading 4-0 after 25 minutes. A long range strike from Nicola Anderson pulling a goal back for Cardea on 35 minutes the hosts winning a penalty in the closing minute of the first half Anderson striking home from the spot to reduce the deficit to 4-2 at the break. Wisbech Town getting the better of the 2nd half to reach their 2nd semi-final of the season Kowalewsky scoring a 2nd to make it 5-2, both Stanborough and Swinden them added their 2nd goals of the game to extend the lead to 7-2. Aisling Ryan getting on the scoresheet too before Kowalewsky scored again in the closing stages of the game to seal her hat-trick.
Wisbech Town Ladies, Faye Kowalewsky
That sees the line-up for the Division One Cup semi-finals complete both games to be played Sunday 10th March with a 2pm kick-off:-
St Ives Town Ladies Development v Burwell Tigers Ladies
Wisbech Town Ladies v Ketton Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
The other game played at the weekend was the last remaining group match in the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup, Ketton Ladies already through to the knock-out stages of the competition taking on fellow Championship North side Pinchbeck United Ladies on Sunday. A brace each for Claire Lawrenson and Fran Kavanagh securing a 4-1 win for Ketton to see them finish unbeaten in Group A.
The draw for the quarter-finals of the League Cup made the 4 ties to be played on Sunday 24th February :-
ICA Sports Ladies v Riverside Ladies
Cambridge City Ladies Development v Ketton Ladies
March Town United Ladies v Cambridge University Women
Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday with a further two matches seeing the 3 points awarded as a home win for league leaders East Bergholt United Ladies and third placed Alresford Colne Rangers. Of the three games played on Sunday it was another good win for 2nd placed Needham Market Women the 2nd placed side keeping the gap between them and leaders East Bergholt to just 3 points. Were at home taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Needham Market taking the lead from the penalty spot to hold a narrow advantage advantage after a positive start from Brightlingsea, Needham Market have attack minded players through their side and they went on to dominate the 2nd period to score a further 6 goals to win the game 7-0 and extend thier winning run to 7 matches. Another brace fro Francesca Rainbird sees her move onto 22 goals for the season with Jemma Wessels, Elysia Young, Amber Sparkes, Laura Tuley and Ashleigh Goddard with her 1st goal for the club also on the scoresheet.
It was a 7 goal thriller between Brettvale Ladies and 4th placed Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Brettvale having strengthened their squad running Brantham close scoring 3 goals in the match. Brantham edging the result to win 4-3 thanks to a hat-trick from top scorers Kirsten Hutchings who now has 22 for the season and a goal from Jodie Sharp her 13th of the campaign, Brantham 3 points behind 3rd placed Alresford with a game in hand.
A hat-trick for Brantham Athletic Ladies, Kirsten Hutchings
Woodbridge Town Ladies are up to 5th in the Suffolk Women’s Division table newcomers to the league this season have now collected 10 points from their last 5 matches in the league. This Sunday were at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Jenna Liverpool, Woodbridge’s top scorer netting twice in the game to move onto 12 for the season. There was a brace two for Sophie Crane. Woodbridge winning the game 5-0 the other goal scored by Kiera Hines her 1st goal for Woodbridge.
Twice postponed it was 3rd time lucky for the last remaining Norfolk Women’s County Cup quarter final to be played, Norfolk Division One side Sprowston Athletic Ladies taking on King’s Lynn Town Ladies for the league above ERWFL Division One. An away tie in the semi-finalists against 2 times County Cup winners Thorpe United Ladies the prize and beyond that a trip to the home of Norwich City FC, Carrow Road for the final itself.
King’s Lynn started slow both sides having not played since the 13th of January, the visitors going on to take the lead eventually running out 4-0 victors to reach the last four of the competition with goals from Tiffany Forshaw, Rochelle Woods, Emma Corbyn and Becky Russell returning to the side just 8 weeks after giving birth to son Charlie. Both semi-finals to be played on Sun 17th February, King’s Lynn have a busy run coming up having fallen behind in their league fixtures. The other semi-final a repeat of last season’s final with Acle United Women hosting Wymondham Town Ladies.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Just one defeat from 11 played Thorpe United Ladies recorded their 10th win of the season on Sunday to open up a commanding 15 point lead at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday, were away to the side that inflicted their only defeat Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Captain Rebekah Lake finding the back of the net for 3 goals her hat-trick seeing Thorpe win the game 3-1 with Kayleigh Holloway scoring for the hosts.
It was 2nd versus 3rd in the other match played in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with Aylsham Ladies hosting Sprowston Ladies. The two sides meeting at the start of the year in the league cup Sprowston running away with the win 8-1. This Sunday in the league a hat-trick from Victoria Leyer saw Sprowston take a 3-1 lead into the half-time break. Plenty of goals scored in the 2nd half a 7 goal thriller, Aylsham hitting back to score 3 goals in the 2nd half, Sprowston edging t with 4 goals to win the game 7-4! Leyer on target with all of their goals adding 7 to her goal scoring tally moving her onto 19 for the season, those goals helping to take Sprowston into 2nd above Aylsham on goal difference.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The weather playing it’s part in Norfolk as it did across the country on Sunday saw just one game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two, but it was a big result for Bulldogs Ladies as they won their first ever game in woman’s football the Thetford based side at home to Freethorpe Ladies. Drawing 1-1 at half-time Bulldogs nicking the 3 points in the 2nd half winning 2-1. Melissa Collis and Emma Johnson with the all important goals. Laura-Jayne Peachment with the first half goal for Freethorpe.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup & Plate
The draws for both the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate and semi-finals of the League Cup also made this week both scheduled to be played Sun 24th February:-
League Cup semi-finals
Taverham United Women v Sprowston Ladies
Tavern Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies
League Plate quarter finals
Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies v Gorleston Rangers Ladies or Sprowston Athletic Ladies
Beccles Town Ladies v Bulldogs Ladies
Thetford Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves
Lawford Ladies make up this season’s semi-finalists in the Essex Women’s Trophy after winning their twice postponed quarter final tie away to Essex Premier Division side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies this Sunday. The ERWFL Division One side going through courtesy of a 6-2 win. Stacey Teager scoring a brace, there were goals too for captain Daisy Canny, Erin Hornby and first goals of the season for Susan Jackson and Hayley Chapman. Jo Smeaton scoring both the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies.
The semi-finals of the Essex Women’s Trophy to be played Sunday 17th February.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Collier Row Tigers
Silver End United Ladies v Lawford Ladies
Essex Women’s Premier Division
One match played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday and it was a big home win for Collier Row Tigers to see the 5th placed side close the gap to Chelmsford City Ladies in 4th down to a point. Were taking on Silver End United Ladies. Laura Bunton racing ahead in the goal scoring charts for Collier Row Tigers as she found the back of the net for 7 goals! Takes her to 25 for the season after 10 appearances. Sarah Finch and Emma Harrison also celebrating a goal in a 9-0 win.
Essex Women’s League Cup
The top two in the Essex Women’s Premier Division met in the 2nd Round of the League Cup this weekend. League leaders Leigh Ramblers Ladies at home to Frontiers Ladies on Sunday. Leigh Ramblers the side progressing to the quarter finals stage of the competition with a 3-0 win.
Essex Women’s Division One
The weather affecting the fixtures there were just two matches played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday and it was a massive away win for league leaders Billericay Town Ladies Reserves that sees them extend their lead at the top of the table to 9 points over Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies. Were playing bottom side Island Ladies. Lisa Robins top scorer for Billericay adding a further 4 goals to her tally has 22 now from 12 played. Lauren Bourne moves onto double figures as she struck a hat-trick for Billericay on Sunday.Robyn Moody & Mya Turner both scored a brace with a goal each for Kelsey Smith & Anna Marie Rains along with 1st Billericay goals for Joanne Burgoyne & Sarah Fry in a 15-0 win.
7 points now from their last 3 league games sees Belhus Ladies in the bottom two in the Division One table for much of the season leap up into 8th position in the table. Two successive wins now against the sides down there with them, scoring 6 goals in each game too, were at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Danni Jennings reaching double figures for the season taking over as top goal scorer netting a hat-trick to take her to 10 goals. Hayley Freeman & Hayley Chapman getting a goal a piece with Aimee Hunt scoring for the first time this season in a 6-1 victory.
One match taking place in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday and it saw league leaders Cambridge City Ladies extend their lead at the top of the table as they won their 13th game of the season at home against Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies. 14 played now with just 2 points dropped in a strong position now with 2 thirds of their games played. Have a potent strike force with goal scorers all over the pitch. Shannon Shaw hitting a brace this weekend to take her to 12 for the season with Bella Simmons also getting her name of the scoresheet with her 14th goal of the season in a 3-0 win.
ERWFL Division One
The weather and outstanding cup fixtures affecting the league programme in ERWFL Division One this Sunday, two games featuring the top two in the league and their is a new side leading the way, St Ives Town Ladies going top. Unbeaten since joining the ERWFL this season 14 played with this weekend bringing up their 10th win of the campaign. Were at home hosting Essex side Hutton Ladies. The visitors carrying a potent goal threat themselves Vicky Kinsman adding another goal to her impressive goal scoring record. St Ives, Georgia Stancombe claiming the match ball as she netted a hat-trick up the other end, has 12 to her name now. Tierney Coulson St Ives top scorer adding a goal her 19th of the season as St Ives ran out 4-1 winners.
St Ives Town Ladies, Georgia Stancombe
That win for St Ives coupled with dropped points fro previous leaders Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. The Essex side at home to a rejuvenated Hertford Town Ladies coming into the match off their 1st league win of the season last weekend against Bishops Stortford Ladies, have strengthened their squad, a point well earned against unbeaten St Ives a fortnight ago, Hertford followed that up with another creditable 0-0 against the league leaders to take their unbeaten run to 3 matches.
It was another weekend where the weather tried to take centre stage yet again over half the fixtures across the East and beyond falling by the way side. Snow and frozen pitches the feature. Nevertheless their were some big games played and none more so than in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup. February beginning with the sides from the FAWSL and Championship entering the competition 16 ties across the country six taking place that feature sides currently playing in the leagues on Women’s Football East and those that have progressed to the Championship and FAWSL itself.
The 4th Round action beginning on Saturday with FAWSL leaders Manchester City Women drawn at home to Watford FC Ladies playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Manchester City dominating the chances first half but frustrated Watford going in at half-time the score goalless. The hosts patient kept going getting closer the deadlock eventually broken just past the hour with Nikita Parris putting them into the lead, the England international doubling Manchester’s advantage just 7 minutes later. The win secured in the final five minutes Pauline Bremer finally getting on the scoresheet out for a lengthy period with injury, hit the woodwork and had a goal ruled off for offside in the first half scoring the 3rd goal for Manchester to see them advance.
It was the FA Women’s Cup where the match action on the website came from this weekend a road trip south of the Thames to watch AFC Wimbledon Ladies from FAWNL South East Division One take on FAWSL side Bristol City WFC. Some 35 league places between the sides the biggest gap between sides in the last 16. Wimbledon reaching this stage having previously beaten higher league opponents in the previous two rounds Portsmouth FC Women and Hull City Ladies playing in the Southern and Northern Premier Divisions. Bristol a tough test with the FAWSL now a fully professional league.
A good crowd of 500 in attendance Wimbledon playing at Carshalton Athletic FC on a 3G surface. Bristol getting off to a flyer taking the lead after just 12 seconds! A diagonal ball finding new signing Abi Harrison on the left she ran in behind taking the ball into the box and shooting to score her first goal for the club. The post kissed moments later Wimbledon were on the back foot goalkeeper Edie Kelly carrying an injury pulled off some fantastic save it was all Bristol camped inside their opponents half on 23 minutes the lead was doubled, Poppy Pattinson getting in behind left side a cross put along the face of goal met by Katie Robinson at the far post for 2-0. In midfield Carla Humphrey and Poppy Wilson were playing well for Bristol combined for their 3rd on 36 minutes Wilson beating two players top of the area to get into a scoring position and fire the ball into the back of the net.
Bristol’s Carla Humphrey leaping clear of the tackle
A 3-0 lead for Bristol at half-time their opponents no registering a shot up the other end needed to show more positive intent 2nd half. Did so the game more open Bristol comfortable though defending their lead. Captain Jess Trimnell with a shot from distance wide across goal for the hosts, Bristol seeing Kelly tip s long range shot over her crossbar. Wimbledon drawing the 2nd half 0-0 saw their historic cup run come to an end, Bristol safely negotiating the first hurdle.
It was an all Championship tie in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup a London derby too with Crystal Palace Ladies hosting league leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies. In great form with plenty of attacking options in their squad Tottenham creating opportunities took the lead in the 40th minute with Jessica Naz capitalising on the follow up to score after Rianna Dean’s strike was pushed out by the keeper. The lead doubled deep into first half injury time with full back Ashleigh Neville putting the ball into the back of the net. A 3rd goal coming 10 minutes into the 2nd half with midfielder Coral Haines sending the ball home Tottenham advancing to the 5th Round.
Three goals too for the winning side in the match between West Ham United Women of the FAWSL at home to FAWNL Northern Premier Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The visitors taking an early lead with Natasha Flint capitalising on a mix-up to put Blackburn into the lead in the 14th minute. West Ham drawing the scores level right on the stroke of half-time with Adriana Leon scoring to make it 1-1. That how it remained going into the final 20 minutes, Brianna Visalli striking to put West Ham in front in the 72nd minute. That goal quickly followed by a 2nd of the game for Leon to make the lead more comfortable for West Ham and see them into the draw for the 5th Round.
It was a double header in Crawley with two games from the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, starting off with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC of the FAWSL hosting Manchester United Women for the FA Women’s Championship. A close first half between the sides seeing them drawing 0-0 at the break. The deadlock broken 6 minutes into the 2nd half with Lauren James getting the goal to put the visitors in front. Bright awarded a penalty, Manchester United goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain pulling off a fantastic save to keep the lead intact the tie settled in injury time with James getting her 2nd of the game to put Manchester United through to the 5th Round.
The was followed by Crawley Wasps Ladies versus Arsenal Ladies, 33 places between the sides Crawley Wasps riding high in FAWNL South East Division One with a 100% record Arsenal in the hunt for the title 2nd in the FAWSL. A great crowd of 1500 in attendance. Captain Kim Little firing Arsenal into the lead getting herself in the box to fire a low shot into the back of the net. 16-year-old Ruby Grant one of five debutants starting for Arsenal doubling their lead. 2-0 to the good at half-time. Frankie Gibbs pulling off some great saves to deny Arsenal from going further ahead. Grant getting her 2nd and Arsenals 3rd saw the woodwork deny her hat-trick but a further chance fell her way and see celebrated her 3rd goal wrapping up a 4-0 victory for Arsenal. Like AFC Wimbledon Ladies a great FA Cup run for Crawley Wasps Ladies.
The draw for the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup made yesterday the last 16 know who they will face with several ties postponed taking place this coming Sunday, the 8 ties to be played Sun 17th February are as follows :-
Liverpool FC Women or Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Millwall Lionesses or Lewes FC Women
Bristol City WFC v Durham Women FC or Cardiff City Ladies
Reading FC Women or Keynsham Town Ladies v Yeovil Town Ladies or Birmingham City Women
Chelsea Women v Arsenal Women
Manchester United Women v London Bees
West Ham United Women v Charlton Athletic Women or Huddersfield Town Ladies
Stoke City Ladies or Aston Villa Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women or Sheffield United Women
Longest journey of the season to date this Sunday a road trip south the watch the FA Women’s Cup 4th Round match between AFC Wimbledon Ladies & Bristol City WFC.
35 places and 3 leagues between the sides the biggest gap of all 16 ties in this Sunday’s FA Women’s Cup reaching the 4th Round stage where the big guns from the FAWSL & Championship enter the competition. AFC Wimbledon Ladies one of three FAWNL Division One sides to reach the 4th Round along side South East counter parts and league leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies and Keynsham Town Ladies 2nd in the South West league.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies currently 6th in what is a hotly contested top half battle in South East Division One are relishing & excited for the what they know will be a tough test at home against a side from the top tier of women’s football. Have made history already reaching the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup beating higher league side Hull City Ladies from the FAWNL Northern Premier Division 3-0 away from home. Showing good form in the cup competitions are also through to the last 8 of the FAWNL Cup. This there sixth game in their historic cup run
As Bristol Academy, Bristol City WFC were one of the founding members of the FAWSL and have seen the league undergo many changes in it’s relatively short history. The latest being the top tier of the women’s game going fully professional. Tanya Oxtoby’s side comfortably established in 5th position in the 11 side league. Has been a while since I’ve seen any FAWSL football, the clubs closer to home keeping me busy but have always had a soft spot for Bristol enjoyed many trips down to their Stoke Gifford Stadium home in the past. The standard has increased year on year and an intrigued to see how much it has risen.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies played their home matches at Carshalton Athletic FC. A 3G playing surface soon I guessed it would fair better with the previous few days inclement weather. A good size the stadium tucked away in a residential area. A large terraced stand along one side of the pitch another seated stand opposite a bar and large clubhouse, hot and cold refreshments a tidy layout with a decent sized crowd building. The weather quite good actually bright and sunny after a cold start blue skies.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting XI – Edie Kelly, Rosie Russell, Sian Kylie, Kelly Highman, Hannah Billingham, Becky Mclaren-Johnson, Jess Trimnell (C), Rebecca Sargent, Caroline Bisson, Georgia Heasman & Jenny Nagle. Subs – Megan Kowalski, Lindsey Clarke, Sarah Wentworth, Katie Stanley, Hannah Baptiste & Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins.
It’s the visitors Bristol to get the game underway 1st half wearing red shirts and socks with white shorts, Wimbledon it their all blue kit, a bit of eager encroachment seeing the kick-off retaken.
GOAL! The quickest goal of the weekend I suspect and certainly the quickest recorded in a match report on Women’s Football East. Bristol playing the ball out to the right back position the diagonal ball is long probing to the left Abi Harrison, Bristol’s latest signing making her first start picking the ball up into her run as she ghosts in behind into the area shapes to shot sending a low driven shot across the keeper and into the goal beyond, her 1st goal for Bristol, 12 seconds played 0-1.
Bristol City WFC’s Abi Harrison
Certainly not the start you want as the underdogs, a blow so early in the game no time to implement a game plan the visitors able to settle early a goal to the good. Wimbledon look to play the ball long for Caroline Bisson on the right hand side straight from the restart, Poppy Pattinson can see it safely out for Bristol. The visitors quick to counter the ball with Pattinson left side on for Poppy Wilson making a run forwards into the left channel, Kelly Highman getting across her run to see it out of play safely for Wimbledon.
Bristol on the front foot right from the off make ground on the right the cross flashes into the area, Highman gets a boot on it knocks it out to the top of the area comes straight to Wilson she connects with it sweetly the ball clattering off the post right back into Wilson path no time to control can only put the follow up over the bar. Bristol finding room on the flanks pushing Wimbledon back Carla Humphrey with the ball it her moves right before sending a cross into the box, Sian Wylie clears inside her six yard box for Wimbledon the ball picked up by Wilson 20 yards out her shot back in straight at Wimbledon goalkeeper Edie Kelly.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Sian Wylie
Most of the play inside the Wimbledon half, Bristol invited to come on Wilson combining with Humphrey in the middle the pass out to Katie Robinson breaking down the right, her attempt to cut inside stopped by Wimbledon full back Rosie Russell. A melee in the box ends up with goalkeeper Kelly down needing treatment, Humphrey’s cross from the right initially cleared by Highman, falls to Wilson can’t quite getting over the bouncing ball to smash a clean shot in Wimbledon get it away.
Bristol overload the right as they attack the ball squared inside across the top of the area helped on comes to Wilson her low shot driven in low held by Kelly. A rearguard action from Wimbledon early on standing off Bristol inviting pressure the FAWSL team able to let their full backs get forwards, captain Julie Biesmans and Danique Kerkdijk at the back able to pick their passes often the only themselves along with goalkeeper Eartha Cummings in their half. Another ball into the area from the right side, Kelly goes to ground as Juliette Kemppi closes her down the pair come together the keeper manages to hold onto the ball, as Highman gets around to cover behind. Kelly needs treatment but is okay to continue.
Bristol City WFC captain, Julie Biesmans
Bristol will be used to a high tempo game the ball squeezed decision making often forced a different story at the moment players looking up deciding what option to take willing runners left and right, Humphrey coming for the ball moving into gaps Wilson able to push on through the middle, Jenny Nagle leading the line for Wimbledon has little to feed on and is pushed back into her own half much of the time. Billingham jumps well inside the box to get her head on it and clear for Wimbledon as Robinson puts a ball in from the right. Kemppi fouled outside the box right of goal, Biesmans over the free-kick goes for goal her attempt still rising as it goes over.
GOAL! 23 minutes played and Bristol’s dominant start to the game brings them a second goal, Harrison and Pattinson linking up on the left wing Pattinson running in behind with the ball fires a vicious ball across the face of the Wimbledon goal Katie Robinson arriving far post half a yard on her marker to smash the ball into the back of the net and make it 0-2.
Katie Robinson on the attack for Bristol City WFC
Gemma Evans with the ball at the back decides to go on a forwards run cutting inside on halfway laying the pass into Pattinson, her run forwards halted by Wimbledon’s Becky Mclaren-Johnson. A corner for Bristol right side taken short up the line the cross/shot driven in Kelly with an excellent fingertip save to take the ball up over the bar for a 2nd corner. Hannah Billingham heading clear for Wimbledon. Humphrey has the ball at her feet right of goal all of 30 yards out strikes it well her shot whistling wide across goal.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Rebecca Sargent
Bristol’s good start has silenced the crowd but there is a passion clear amongst those gathered and when they see their side getting stuck in they’re ready to will them on, Nagle putting the tackle in on half way to win the ball Rebecca Sargent looking to burst through with it stopped by Evans. Mclaren-Johnson winning the ball back as she is pushed onto her defence.
GOAL! Bristol get a 3rd goal their central midfielders combining Humphrey sending a great diagonal ball on for Wilson making a run towards the top of the box, beats two defenders effortlessly to get herself clear into the box, left of goal sends her shot racing across the keeper to nestle inside the side netting 0-3.
Poppy Wilson driving forwards with the ball for Bristol City WFC
Wimbledon haven’t had much of the ball let alone in their opponents half Georgia Heasman trying to get forwards on the right but as quick as the Bristol full backs are to join the attack their wide players are back to help in defence. Bristol come left Harrison with the cross into the area for Kemppi looks to get turned for a shot Billingham in to close her down. Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell plays the ball on for Nagle, Bisson in close support the crowd willing them on run into traffic the game open for a moment Bristol play it forwards Highman in to win the tackle. The biggest cheer of the day goes up when the referee takes a tumble.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Jenny Nagle
Late into the 1st half a rare attack for Wimbledon Nagle out to Heasman on the left Russell on the overlap gets forwards down the line but Bristol prevent the cross as the referee blows for half-time.
Half-time AFC Wimbledon Ladies 0-3 Bristol City WFC
As easy a first half as Bristol have ever played, have had the majority of the ball and that in the opponents half. Taking such an early lead settled any nerves they might have had have been able to get forwards at will since, rarely threatened in attack, created numerous chances and taking a 3 goal lead into half-time. Wimbledon haven’t had a single shot at goal even created a chance, have defended deep stood off thier opponents, very unusual as they are usually a high pressing in your face side who are at their best on the offensive. The early goal no doubt not in he game plan but will need to do something be more positive in the 2nd half if they wish to get anything out of the tie. A big ask at 3-0 down.
A change at half-time for Bristol, Robinson picking up an injury replaced by Rosella Ayane. Wimbledon with a positive intent straight from the start kicking-off the ball forwards with Heasman, on to Nagle looks to hold it up is tackled. Mclaren-Johnson nipping in to win the ball back, Trimnell too. Give away a free-kick right the ball played in high his claimed well by Kelly. Wylie clearing a Bristol corner. Wimbledon get the ball forwards win a throw right side put into Trimnell who takes the shot on from distance plenty of power behind it Cummings can see it wide of her goal.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies captain Jess Trimnell after Bristol’s Poppy Wilson
Wilson with the ball out to Harrison running on left side her ball into the box picked up by Kemppi right of goal, Highman sliding in to take it away from the attacker before she can get a shot away. A more open game 2nd half Bristol still have more of the ball but Wimbledon quicker to close it down get players in support of Nagle. Mclaren-Johnson very proactive in the middle Sargent looking to get forwards. Bristol come right Heather Payne getting forwards in support of Kemppi the pass back to the full back the cross in towards Humphrey getting into a central position stoops into the header her looped ball on target but caught by Kelly.
Wimbledon make a change Nagle coming off up top to be replaced by Katie Stanley with an hour played. If Wimbledon do manage to get away on either flank the run is short lived Bristol have pace in abundance and put it to good use to recover the ball. Kemppi this time back to tackle and put the ball out for a throw. Stanley is tackled in the final 3rd Bristol counter quickly the ball left the cross in long gathered by Harrison right side looks to tie up Humphrey central connects well her shot arrowing in just swerving away from the top corner.
Bristol’s Carla Humphrey leaping clear of the tackle
Bristol make their 2nd change, Pattinson coming off on comes Scottish international Frankie Brown. Harrison puts the ball on for Wilson central she pushes on, Mclaren-Johnson in to tackle and win the ball well outside the box. Heasman comes off for Wimbledon on in her place Megan Kowalski. Bristol remain strong are still holding a high line getting down the flanks crosses left the right dealt with by the Wimbledon centre-backs. Bristol not afraid to go direct either when the opportunity presents itself breaking up a Wimbledon move outside their box the ball played up into Harrison on half-way controls well turning plays a great pass on for Humphrey breaking on in behind only a good starting position from Kelly denies her a chance as the keeper claims on the top of her area.
Bristol come on the cross low into the area Kemppi right of goal tries to bring it down and turn into the shot Highman sliding in makes the block, the rebound comes to Ayane her shot from outside the box blocked by Wylie as Bristol push bodies forwards. Stanley does well inside the Bristol half to win the ball support from Kowalski in front of the centre circle, her pass long finds Bisson running in clear on the right, Cummings has had little to do but is alert going to ground on the edge of the area to get something on the ball play however is halted by a raised flag.
Less than 10 minutes left a change for both sides, Hannah Baptiste coming on for Wimbledon replacing Trimnell. Jess Woodley on for Bristol replacing Harrison. Kelly with another fine finger tip save turning the ball up over her crossbar as a Bristol shot is driven in from distance. The corner right side a good delivery no one attacking it far post. Wimbledon mount an attack Bisson a threat on the right if she can get forwards a great ball fired into the six yard box Russell furthest forwards tries to get there, Kerkdijk getting in front of her clearing the danger for Bristol.
Bristol City WFC defender, Danique Kerkdijk
Woodley sees the ball into the back of the net for Bristol off a corner on the left, won;t count however as the officials flag is raised. Kelly sees a poor kick out land straight at Kemppi’s feet left of the area she takes a touch to get it out of her feet drags her shot wide of goal.
Wimbledon with a throw right side comes on into the top of the Bristol area finds Kowalski she lays it back to Mclaren-Johnson her ball back in cut out spins to Stanley right of the D, her first time shot is dragged wide of the target. Bristol finish the game strong, mounting an attack the ball into Kemppi tackled by Highman then Billingham slides in to charge a shot down from Wilson.
Full time AFC Wimbledon Ladies 0-3 Bristol City WFC
A goalless 2nd period a much improved performance from Wimbledon, the damage down in the first half, Bristol able to sit off in the 2nd half with a 3 goal lead. Played well dominated without really being tested at the back, weren’t pressed when on the ball, case of choosing the right options and that was made easier by good movement and use of space in front of them. Training full time have the edge when it comes to fitness good on the recovery when needed.
Wimbledon’s fine FA Women’s Cup campaign comes to an end, not how they would have wanted a great achievement getting this far in the competition history made, should make you hungry for more. The early goal certainly playing a part, hold out for the first 10/15 minutes the confidence grows you start to ask questions and with their passionate supporters ready to will them on…
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Edie Kelly with some fine saves and Becky Mclaren-Johnson two stand out performers for Wimbledon this afternoon. Bristol were dominant for much of the game playing the game inside their opponents half. It’s a straight shoot-out between their central midfielders, Poppy Wilson making some great forwards runs joining the attack and getting in behind when Wimbledon were looking to keep it tight through the middle took her goal well. Carla Humphrey edging it however, finding some great space moving right with a useful range of passing, getting into some great attacking positions unlucky not to score herself is today’s Player of the Match.
Been awhile since I’ve travelled south of the Thames for a game, enjoyed it though even if the trip out of London wasn’t fun, halfway home decamped at a hotel to get the report written tonight. The Draw for the 5th Round to be make live on TV tomorrow evening, several ties postponed this weekend. Nice to see Wimbledon at home at last, a nice venue, a tasty bacon bap and a much needed cup of tea. My thanks for the clubs help with the teams today.
