Another busy Sunday across the Beds and Herts Women’s league action as well as the semi-finals of both the League Cup & The Chris Renshaw Cup.
Current League Cup holders, St Albans Ladies aiming to go all the way again in this season’s competition winning through to the last 4 were drawn at home in the semi-finals to play Division Three side AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. One of a cluster of new sides entering the league this season that have made an impact, reaching the last 4 of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup, an exciting game between the sides chances at both ends St Albans having a goal ruled out for offside end to end at times Kempston clearing an effort off the line St Albans registering a goal late in the 1st half Eleanor Lovelock sliding the ball past the keeper to put the Division one side 1-0 up. Kempston seeing a goal ruled off for offside themselves just before half-time. St Albans tried their utmost to find a 2nd goal in the 2nd period as Kempston defended for their lives trying to pull a goal back up the other end, Lovelock’s 15th goal of the season proving to be enough as St Albans reach the League Cup Final for the 2nd successive season.
Far from a close contest in the other semi-final with Division One side Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies hosting, Hitchin Belles leading the way in Division Two and in confident mood reaching the last 4 of the League Cup. Hemel Hempstead in a strong position to challenge for the Division One title running up a double figure scoreline. Bianca Hedgecock nearly doubling her goals tally for the season as she scored a double hat-trick. Likewise Charlotte Ross who had 3 goals to her name before this Sunday also scoring a hat-trick, with top scorer Natasha McConville also amongst the goals with a brace taking her to 21 for the season. An 11-0 win seeing Hemel Hempstead into the final.
The Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final to be contested at Kempston Rovers FC on Sunday 12th May kick-off 2pm
Beds & Herts The Chris Renshaw Cup
Also semi-final weekend in The Chris Renshaw Cup and after this weekends results it’s guaranteed Garston Ladies name will appear on the trophy, just a matter of them playing to see which one.
Both Garston Ladies sides playing in Division One, have struggled for league form this season with the 2nd XI and 1st team bottom of the league with just one win each. Both into the last 4 of The Chris Renshaw Cup were at home taking on lower league opposition both their opponents 2nd doing well.
Garston Ladies 1st team were taking on Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses, the sides involved in a 7 goal thriller with Garston just edging out Woburn & Wavendon at the final whistle. Victoria Harrold, Laura Sephton and top scorer Giselle Randall with her 21st goal of the season getting on the scoresheet for the Division Three side. A brace from Yasmin Sabri, along with a goal each for Jane Hales and Lucy Zecchin seeing Garston’s 1st team through to the final courtesy of a 4-3 victory.
Garston Ladies 2nd XI were taking on Division Two side Hitchin Town Ladies in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday, both sides starting the game positively Garston drawing first blood taking the lead in the 25th minute. Hitchin Town responding straight away to level, Louise Gash sliding in to make it 1-1 3 minutes later. Back came Garston retaking the lead right away scoring through an unfortunate own goal. A corner late in the first half seeing Garston take a 3-1 lead Gash hitting the bar for Hitchin Town in the final minute of the 1st half. 3-1 up at half-time Garston added a 4th goal with 20 minutes left to play. Hitchin pulling a goal back in the final minute with Hayley Watson’s half volley from 35 yards out finding the back of the net. Too late Garston winning through to the final 4-2, Holly Jury with her 9th of the season, Dion Lewis and a 1st goal of the season for Garston for Megan Allaway the goalscorers.
The Chris Renshaw Cup Final also being played on Sunday 12th May and 11am kick-off at Kempston Rovers FC.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
One league game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One on Sunday with leaders Northwood Ladies extending their lead at the top of the table to 4 points with a home win against Sherrardswood Ladies. Northwood clinching the 3 points with a 2-0 victory, Emma Steele with both the goals taking her onto 21 goals for the season.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
4th at home to 2nd in Division Two on Sunday as both Royston Town Ladies Development and Letchworth Garden City Eagles were looking to close the gap on the sides immediately above them, both Hitchin side involved in the cups. The points were shared in the finish with neither side unable to break the deadlock the game ending 0-0.
Plenty of goals in the other game played in Division Two on Sunday, all going to the away side as 5th placed Evergreen Ladies travelled to play bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Well clear of the sides below Evergreen rattled 9 goals past their opponents to win the game 9-0. Those 9 goals shared between 2 players the clubs top scorers by some distance, with Natalie Maher scoring 5 and Rebecca Freeman on target for 4 goals both neck and neck in the race for the clubs golden boot with 12 goals each.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two games also this Sunday in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three, with Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses in Cup action it was an opportunity for league leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development to go 7 points clear at the top. At home were taking on Biggleswade United Ladies. An early lead for Dunstable with Nicola Hollick firing the hosts into a 15th minute lead, that how the score remained heading into the final 10 minutes, Sophie Bounds with her first goal for Biggleswade levelling it up at 1-1. The game heading for a draw Dunstable came back to grab the winning goal with two minutes of regular time left Bianca Vassell with her 31st strike of the season putting the ball into the back of the net.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies have found some form in recent weeks 7 points won from their last 3 league matches were away t bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies this Sunday. Kept the good run going with a 4-0 to close t within a point of 5th placed Biggleswade. Charlotte Hindmarch and Holly Konopka both scoring twice.
The games starting to run out in Norfolk Women’s Division One with a handful of fixtures left to play, the league title decided already Thorpe United Ladies leading from start to finish. Runners-up spot isn’t quite done an dusted yet Sprowston Ladies have it right now with one game left to play. Two fixtures from the division this weekend and a good result at home for 3rd placed Gorleston Ladies sees them close the gap.
Gorleston were at home taking on Aylsham Ladies who haven’t won in the league in 2019 following a great 1st half to the season. Gorleston finding form at just the right time with a 3rd straight league win. Both Samantha Hunn and Sophie Gillett scoring a brace against Aylsham one for Gillett from the penalty spot. Bethany turner also celebrating a goal along with a 1st for Gorleston for Kimberley Sherllock. Gorleston winning the game 6-1 close the gap to Sprowston to 4 points, and with 2 games in hand a positive run could yet see them finish 2nd.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies also winning at the weekend the 3 points seeing them climb up int the top half of the Division One table. Were taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves, a goal each for Kate Morris and Laura Jenkins helping them secure a 2-0 win. 3 points back from Gorleston they too have 3 games yet to play in a strong position to consolidate a top half finish following promotion this season.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
An opening day 0-0 draw for Taverham United Women they hadn’t looked back since the young side winning their next 13 league matches in Norfolk Women’s Division Two to lead the way for much of the season. That run brought to an end this Sunday as they tasted defeat in the league for the first time. At home came up against another side bang on form, Tavern Ladies, 5 straight wins in league and cup the Dereham based side beaten in the reverse fixture with Taverham at the start of the year. A great result away from home with Lucy Kean on the scoresheet for her 9th goal of the season for Tavern along with a brace for Atlanta Griffith who moves to 20 for the campaign. Defeat for the first time Taverham still remain in a very strong position at the top of the table.
Fakenham Town Ladies in 2nd spot close the gap to Taverham to 4 points winning at home this Sunday, have two games in hand on the league leaders, Fakenham’s only league defeat this season coming against Taverham who have to come to Clipbush Park yet this season. This Sunday Fakenham were playing host to Horsford Women. Leading 1-0 at half-time Fakenham went on to find the back of the net for 2 more goals in the 2nd half to win the game 3-0. The goals coming from Kayleigh Robb, Jennifer Codman and captain Sian Sands with her 9th goal of the season.
3rd placed Long Stratton Women returned to winning ways at home to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this Sunday. Samantha Walker bagging herself another hat-trick has 34 goals this season from just 12 appearances for Long Stratton. Charlie Head was also on the scoresheet with her 15th of the season the hosts ran out 4-1 winners to claim the 3 points to keep them 6 points clear of 4th placed Tavern who have 2 games in hand. Emma Johnson scoring the goal for Bulldogs her 12th of the season.
A tight battle in the middle of Division Two with teams jockeying for position Thetford Town Ladies move up a place into sixth overhauling Gorleston Rangers Ladies as the two met at the weekend both on 18 points going into the game at Gorleston. A hat-trick for Melissa Boulton the difference as the Thetford Town’s top scorers goals helped the visitors to a 3-2 win to earn the 3 points. Boulton with 18 goals for the season now. Rachel Adams from the penalty spot and Abbie Pogmore getting the goals for Gorleston Rangers.
Up to 7th in the Division Two table are Freethorpe Ladies winning away from home this Sunday against Hockering Ladies who keep battling away despite not being able to field a full team. Freethorpe scoring twice in the first half went on to add another 4 in the 2nd to win the game 6-0. Captain Claire Garner scoring a brace Amy Barber also getting on the scoresheet with first goals for Eden Simmonds, Hayriye Budak and Miranda Park making her first Freethorpe appearance.
Women’s Football East was down in Essex this Sunday at Aveley FC for the Final of the Essex Women’s Trophy. The third final as Essex FA held the#FemaleFinalsDay Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking on Lawford Ladies in this season’s final. Both sides playing in ERWFL Division One a bright sunny afternoon, an entertaining game Lawford coming close early on with captain Daisy Canny taking the ball around the keeper inside the box smashing her shot against the post. Bowers & Pitsea breaking forwards well up the other end creating chances Sophie Dowman pressuring the Lawford defence setting up the opening goal playing the ball into Holly Moore striking the ball first time rifles her shot into the top corner to give Bowers & Pitsea the lead. Georgia Fraser bursting through on goal doubling the lead just past the half hour blasting a shot over the keeper from the edge of the area.
A 2-0 lead for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at half-time Lawford doing some reorganising at half-time begin the 2nd half well getting onto the front foot, pressing the ball higher limiting the balls up to Bowers & Pitsea’s attackers. Pushing for a goal Lawford pull one back from a superbly struck free-kick for Jodie Sharp. Lawford continue to battle get players forwards creating chances, Bowers & Pitsea need a 3rd goal and get it on the counter in the final 10 minutes Holly Moore on just returned to the action firing home another clinical finish to make it 3-1. Lawford come straight back to reduce the deficit once more from a free kick wide on the left the ball into the area not cleared Tess Ryan scrambling it home inside the six yard box. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies hold on in the closing moments to win the game 3-2 and win the final.
Elsewhere in the county their was more cup action with the twice postponed Essex Women’s League Cup quarter final between Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves and Harlow town Ladies Development at last taking place. Harlow Town’s youngsters doing well in the Premier Division easing through to the last 4 of the League Cup with a convincing away win on Sunday. Both Hannah Smith and Ellie Nicholls scoring 4 goals each in the match have 38 goals between them. Jazi Davidson also getting her name on the scoresheet her first goal of the season, Harlow winning 9-0. Will be away in the semi-finals taking in Division One side Runwell Sports Ladies the game scheduled for Sunday 7th April. Leigh Ramblers Ladies at home to Southend United Ladies in the other semi-final to be played a week later.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Three games played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. Leigh Ramblers Ladies were playing just their 3 league game of the year have had plenty of cup action during that spell. That though has seen their lead at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division lost to Frontiers Ladies. Back in league action this Sunday were looking to close the gap as they took on 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies at home. Chelmsford undefeated in the Premier Division in 7 games going into this Sunday’s clash. Leigh Ramblers edging it at the half-time interval leading the game 2-1, getting a 3rd in the 2nd half to win the game and close the gap to Frontiers back to 2 points with 2 games in hand. Rebecca Dalgarno scoring her 15th of the season for Leigh Ramblers there were goals too for Chloe Gilligan and a 1st of the season for Maddie Archer. Georgia Sleep with her 1st for Chelmsford’s 1st team scoring in the first half for the visitors.
Collier Row Tigers take advantage of Harlow Town Ladies Developments delayed League Cup quarter final with victory away from home on Sunday to climb above them into 4th in the Essex Women’s Premier Division table. Corringham Cosmos the hosts saw Michelle Sumpter scoring a goal either side of half-time, it wasn’t enough to get anything from the game however with Collier Row Tigers clinching the 3 points with a 3-2 win.
Silver End United Ladies were also in league action on Sunday at home to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A goal in each half for Danielle Bragg and Roxanne Gardner seeing Silver End United win the game 2-0, the 3 points lifting them up to 6th in the table.
Essex Women’s Division One
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves lost at the weekend for just the 2nd time this season. At home were taking on Rayleigh Town Ladies. Plenty of goals in both squads, Rayleigh were beaten by a mouthwatering scoreline in the County Cup by Billericay’s first team earlier in the season. A small measure of revenge this Sunday as they clinched the points away from home. Isabelle Wallings scoring twice to add to her impressive goals haul this season now standing at 44 and plenty of games left to play. Nancy Butler also on the scoresheet, recently joined from Billericay has 3 goals now in 2 appearances. Rayleigh Town winning the game 3-1. Rachel Marris-Armstrong scoring the goal for Billericay.
That result coupled with a big away win for Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies sees them go 3 points clear at the top of Division One. Were taking on bottom side Island Ladies this Sunday. Jodie Barden on target for a hat-trick takes her onto 10 goals for the season for Dagenham & Redbridge. 18 goals too now for Grace Tebb-Reading scoring a goal too at the weekend, Juliet Thomas and Evie Doyle-Love both on the scoresheet with a goal a piece too in a 6-0 win.
It was a high scoring match between 5th placed FC Clacton Ladies and Belhus Ladies this Sunday the sides sharing a 9 goal thriller. A brace each for Charlotte Warren and Amy Hartley along with a strike from Megan-Leigh Lawrence seeing the win go narrowly to FC Clacton the hosts winning the game 5-4 to get the 3 points. A god effort from Belhus their goals scored by Bethany Murray, Amara Drummond and a brace for Aimee Hunt.
Last but not least a home win on Sunday in Division One for Chigwell Ladies sees them up to 7th in the table. Were taking on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Victoria Parker scoring her 14th goal of the season along with a first of the season for Karen Ulyatt seeing Chigwell win the 3 points with a 2-1 win, Kelsey Honeywood with the goal for Chelmsford.
Five games played across the county this Sunday with two in the Premiership and a full fixture list in the Championship North. In the Premiership, Cambridge City Development leading the table saw their run of wins in league and cup extend to 12 matches this Sunday. A 5th straight league win coming at home against Histon Ladies Reserves. A narrow advantage for Cambridge City at half-time a 1 goal lead, stepped it up a gear 2nd half to score a further 4 games to win 5-0.
Third placed Cambridge University Women were awarded the 3 points a home win against Netherton United Ladies.
Elsewhere in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership it is a very tight picture form 4th down to 7th with there being just 2 points between the 4 positions. March Town United Ladies the latest side to jump up the table going from 7th up to 4th with a home win against bottom side Riverside Ladies on Sunday. Riverside having just the bare 11 available some carrying knocks March held a 2-0 lead at half-time going on to add a 3rd in the 2nd half to win the 3 points, Emma Searle, Emma Frost and Kayleigh Churchyard the goal scorers.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
All six sides in action in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this Sunday with the leading pair Ketton United Ladies and Wisbech Town Ladies both winning away from home along with an away win too for bottom side Pinchbeck United Ladies their 1st league win of the season.
Ketton Ladies made it 10 wins from 10 at the top of the Championship North beating Cardea Ladies away from home this weekend. Ketton scoring 3 goals in each half to win the game 6-0, now have 69 goals for the season a potent strike force in Fran Kavanagh and Claire Lawrenson the pair have 64 goals between them this season, Kavanagh moving past 40 with 4 on Sunday, Lawrenson with a brace moves onto 22.
Ketton Ladies, attackers Fran Kavanagh (back) & Claire Lawrenson
Three points behind Ketton with just the one league defeat to date Wisbech Town Ladies also won away from home on Sunday in their local derby match with Wisbech St Mary Ladies. Have a potent attack of their own as they ran out 7-0 winners to collect the 3 points in Sunday top scorer Sophie Swinden scoring 4 in the game fast closing in on 40 goals herself. Chloe Stanborough moves past 20 goals scoring twice on Sunday with Amy Newell also amongst the goals for her 12th of the season.
Pinchbeck United Ladies also celebrating a win at the weekend their first league win of the season coming at 2nd bottom Hungate Rovers Ladies, a brace from Rebecca Navarrete as well as a goal for Chloe Gray seeing them win the game 3-1.
A good weekend for East Bergholt United Ladies as they extended their lead at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division to 6 points with 4 games left to play on Sunday. Away this Sunday were taking on 4th placed Alresford Colne Rangers a strong performance from East Bergholt seeing the leading 2-0 at half-time with Annie Northwood firing in both goals, a further 3 scored in the 2nd period with Northwood having her name against them all to take her official goals tally to 32 for the season. Kirsty Belfall with the goal for Alresford. East Bergholt winning 5-1.
Coupled with their win there was also a defeat at the weekend for title rivals Needham Market Women. Their own title ambitions taking a hit as they were beaten by a well organised Woodbridge Town Ladies side on Sunday. Jenna Liverpool with her 16th goal of the season scoring the only goal of the game for the hosts, Woodbridge climbing back up int 4th position in the Suffolk Women’s Division table.
The Brantham Athletic Ladies squad plagued by a number of injuries recently battled hard at the weekend at home to Leiston St Margarets to earn the 3 points at home and see them 5 points clear in 3rd position in the Suffolk Women’s Division table. Pushed all the way to the final whistle by their opponents Brantham won the game 1-0 with Lucy Dunnett the goalscorer her 10th goal of the season.
Brantham Athletic Ladies, Lucy Dunnett
Coplestonians Ladies were away this Sunday in the league playing Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies, the hosts going into the half-time interval leading the game 1-0 thanks to a goal for top scorer Charlotte Archer her 9th of the season. Coplestonians fought back in the 2nd half getting back on level terms Ashley Bustos fresh from scoring her first goal for Coplestonians last Sunday netting a double this weekend with Felicity Cooper also getting on the scoresheet in a 3-1 win.
Brettvale Ladies are really benefiting from having an experienced goalscorer like Tarnya McKew in their squad a 4th straight win in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday the 3 points won away to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. McKew on target for a hat-trick in the match taking her goals tally since joining the club to 17 form just 7 appearances. Danielle Lynch also scoring her 1st goal since joining the club their were goals too for Sheryl Nokes and Georgina Lindon in a 6-1 away win.
It’s that time of the season again when the calculator has to be brought out to workout all the different league winning scenarios. Cambridge City Ladies are almost there, just 2 points needed now to ensure them the Premier Division title with 4 games left to play. All but assured now just 3 season’s in the ERWFL a successful spell, the Division one title in their debut season, runners-up last season in the Premier Division along with a League Cup Final appearance in that spell. An unbeaten season to date with just 2 points dropped in 17 games played so far, 16 wins their lead at the top 14 points.
Cambridge City were away to Wymondham Town Ladies this weekend, enjoying a fantastic debut season in the Premier Division themselves up to 2nd spot in the table. A tight first half Cambridge getting in behind the Wymondham defence in the 32nd minute going in front through an own goal. A blow for Wymondham in the 2nd half losing goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan through injury, Jorja Patterson donning the gloves, Cambridge pressed the attack, have a potent attack with a few contenders for top scorer, Shannon Shaw amongst them finding the back of the net for a hat-trick moves onto 19 for the season, full back Lauren Tomlinson also scoring in a 5-0 victory. The leaders at home next Sunday to one of the two sides that can still catch them Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies were at home this Sunday the 5th placed side with games in hand taking on 3rd placed Royston Town Ladies, the only two sides remaining that can catch Cambridge City at the top. Hayley Eldred scoring the only goal of the game glancing the ball on form a corner to score her 12th game of the season. 3 sent off late in game one from Royston and both Larissa Frederick and Katie Steward for Peterborough Northern Star. The 3 points lifting Royston back up int 2nd spot in the Premier Division table.
Harlow Town Ladies in 6th spot travelled to Creasey Park this Sunday to play AFC Dunstable Ladies. The hosts struggling 2nd bottom for numbers and injuries throughout the season have been recruiting building their squad back up recently. Both sides starting well the score 1-1 inside the opening 10 minutes, Vicky Allen with the goal for Dunstable. All square at half-time Harlow began the 2nd half better taking an early lead 2-1, Dunstable with a couple of chances to equalise Harlow extended their lead to 3-1 with an hour gone. Dunstable pulling it back to 3-2 in the 64th minute Alex Chilwell making it 2 goals from 2 appearance getting a shot away from a free-kick swung into the box. Dunstable coming back to make it 3-3 from another free-kick played into the box Allen’s shot turned in off a defender. Both sides pushing for the winning goal late on taking a point each from the match. Bethany Chambers, Lucy Edmeades and Tayla Handscombe with the goals for Harlow Town Ladies.
Colney Heath Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Bedford Ladies, Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup winners for the 2nd successive season last Sunday. It was Colney Heath who had the better of the first half the Hertfordshire side taking the lead from a corner, Lucy Hancock putting the ball in for Kelly Hancock to score with a bullet header at the far post. A brace for Hancock to put Colney Heath 2-0 up the ball pinging around the Bedford area falling to Hancock striking it into the top corner on the half-volley. Bedford fighting back to level the scores after in the 2nd half with Setor Acolatse and Maya Sidhu capitalising on defensive errors to make t 2-2. Colney Heath pressed the attack Rianne Townsend-Brown hitting the post before Christina Freestone smashed a shot in under the crossbar to score what would prove to be the winning goal for the hosts Colney Heath winning 3-2.
A run of six defeats in league and cup coming to an end this Sunday for Brentwood Town Ladies as they won at home taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies enduring a tough time themselves this season short on players at the foot of the Premier Division. A brace for Georgia Holdaway at the weekend takes her onto 23 goals for the season. There was a brace too for Marie Barker along with a 1st Brentwood goal for Hope Strauss in a 5-1 win. Ceri Harris on the scoresheet for Sudbury.
ERWFL Division One
St Ives Town Ladies extend their lead at the top of ERWFL Division One to 9 points. Were on the road this Sunday with a trip to down to Hertfordshire to play Stevenage Ladies Reserves. A close contest between the sides a single goal the margin with Emily Smith getting it for St Ives Town in the 2nd half to see their unbeaten season following promotion to the ERWFL extend to 17 matches. 5 left to play a healthy lead with home matches with 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies who have a game in hand and 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies to come.
With Bowers & Pitsea Ladies playing in the Essex Women’s Trophy this weekend it was a chance for Newmarket Town Ladies promoted with St Ives Town last season to move above them into 2nd, a win at home to King’s Lynn Town Ladies would have seen them go above the Essex side on goal difference. An excellent first half for Newmarket taking the lead inside 3 minutes with Chloe Slater scoring her 1st goal of the season putting the ball in direct from a corner. 5 minutes later Newmarket doubled their lead Antonia Smith sending the ball in after it wasn’t cleared from a free-kick. King’s Lynn pulling a goal back in the 15th minute. Newmarket restoring their 2 goal lead with 10 minutes left to play in the first half Jodie Woodfield with the goal to make it 3-1. King’s Lynn with a much improved performance in the 2nd half battling back to see the sides share the points scoring just past the hour before levelling the scores in the final 15 minutes, an own goal along with her 21st & 22nd goals of the season for Tiffany Forshaw.
A brace on Sunday for King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tiffany Forshaw
4th placed Hutton Ladies were away to Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies this Sunday, the Essex side taking an early lead at the Glassworld Stadium 1-0 up after 6 minutes. Histon getting back on level terms in the 34th minute a free-kick played into the box from the right, Tess Shaw connecting to turn it into the back of the net to make it 1-1. Hutton responding straight away to retake the lead just a minute later. Histon pressing late in the first half equalising for the 2nd time with Sophie Lanham’s shot squeezing in at the near post. 2-2 at the break Sally Appleton and Vicky Kinsman with he 42nd of the season scoring for Hutton. 2-2 the scores heading into the final 10 minutes of the game the winning goal coming in the 83rd minute, Lanham with the ball inside the box sending it back across the keeper to see Histon win 3-2. A good run from Histon now pushing for the top half of the table a five games unbeaten with 3 straight wins.
A 3rd successive league win too in Division One for Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies the 6th placed side at home to Hatfield Peverel Ladies this weekend. Hoddesdon running out 4-2 winners after the final whistle, Rosy Wodhams scoring a goal in each half to take her onto 12 goals for the season for Hoddesdon, Leah Dunnage on target with her 2nd goal in 3 matches too along with Natasha Crick moving into double figures for the season with a goal in the 83rd minute. Jasmine Cox with both the goals for Hatfield Peverel.
Has been a torrid season so far for Bishops Stortford Ladies struggling to get a team out for several fixtures have nevertheless battled hard and stuck together. Bottom of the table were at home to a resurgent Hertford Town Ladies who have been trough a tough period themselves. Just the 9 available when Bishops Stortford were beaten in windy conditions away to Hertford at the end of January 4-1 then, Bishops Stortford were celebrating at the final whistle this time around as they beat their opponents 3-1 to win for the 2nd time this season.
Coventry United Ladies move 6 points clear at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. A healthy lead with 7 games left to play, those chasing all having played more. Coventry winning their 14th straight league match undefeated having only dropped points on the opening day drawing 0-0 with Gillingham Ladies.
Two goals for Coventry United Ladies, Marie Gauntlett
This Sunday they made the trip to King’s Langley FC to play Watford Ladies the weather a whole lot better than when the sides met in the FAWNL Cup back in October. Coventry winning 3-2 then got off to a fantastic start this Sunday with striker Marie Gauntlett charging down the goalkeeper gaining possession and sending the ball on into the net to put the visitors 1-0 up after just 5 minutes. Watford coming close to levelling the scores with a long range strike from Adekite Fatuga-Dada cannoning off the crossbar.
The lead doubled from a corner doubled from a corner kick the ball put into the area cleared only to Natasha Merritt the midfielder controlling before sending a looping ball in to drop down over the keeper to make it 2-0. That the lead heading into the final 25 minutes chances for Coventry to extend their lead Amy Wathan finding the side netting, Helen Ward for Watford seeing a shot saved by Susan Wood as the hosts pushed for a reply, the win made secure late on with Gauntlett heading home from a corner kick to score her 11th of the season and see the game won 3-0.
Cardiff City Ladies climb up to 2nd in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Closed the gap to 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies with an 8th straight league win last Sunday and with Chichester not in action this Sunday had the chance to overhaul them with a trip to the South Coast to play Portsmouth FC Women. A slow opening to the game Portsmouth denied the opening goal in the 19th minute with Shannon Albuery’s ruled out for offside. Moments later Cardiff went on to take the lead Grace Horrell heading in from a corner kick. The lead doubled 4 minutes later with Emma Jones capitalising on a mix-up at the back to score. A purple patch for Cardiff doing the damage as Jones scored her 2nd of the game to make it 3-0 just 3 minutes later. The 2nd half ending goalless Cardiff returning home with the 3 points.
A huge win for 4th placed Oxford United Women at home as they put bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies to the sword on Sunday. Two players celebrating hat-tricks for Oxford, Georgia Timms one of those opening the scoring in the 6th minute. Emily Allen the other starting off a goals blitz midway through the first half doubling the lead in the 21st minute, Timms striking again minutes later with Allen netting her 2nd 3 minutes later, A further 2 goals added in the closing minutes of the first half with Florence Fyfe scoring Oxford’s 5th and Allen completing a first half hat-trick. That scoreline repeated in the 2nd half with Allen making it 7-0 on the hour, Fyfe scoring her 2nd of the game to make it 8-0 minutes later. Allen going on to score her 2nd hat-trick of the day to move clear as top scorer on 16. Timms scoring her 3rd in the closing minutes too. With Imogen Lancaster amongst the goals to with her 1st of the season in a 12-0 win. Oxford just 3 points back from 2nd placed Cardiff.
Kent side Gillingham Ladies made the trip down to the South West this Sunday to play 7th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Zoe Cunningham scoring for the hosts in the 20th minute. The points shared with Gillingham making it 1-1 with Millie Waud getting the goal.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies were at home this Sunday at the MK Stadium taking on QPR Women. Leah Cudone combining with Kim Farrow in attack to put Milton Keynes 1-0 up inside 10 minutes. Lauren Jordinson equalising for the 2nd bottom side midway through the first half with a curling strike from the edge of the box. 1-1 at half-time, it was the visitors who went on to take the lead early in the 2nd half with a stunning strike from Sue Kumaning. QPR 2-1 up with the game heading into the final 15 minutes Milton Keynes came back to level it at 2-2 Kerry Newman picking up the ball in midfield and scoring from 30 yards out. Minutes later Milton Keynes were in front Kim Farrow on target for what prove to be the winning goal.
FAWNL South East Division One
Crawley Wasps Ladies are almost there. Maintaining their 10 point lead at the top of FAWNL South East Division One with victory away to bottom side Luton Town Ladies are almost over the line, a win in their next game at home to 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies will see the title won. Both promoted to the league this season. Crawley are unbeaten with just 2 points dropped to date. An early goal from Amy Green seeing them take the lead against Luton on Sunday. Naomi Cole with a volley making it 2-0 in the 16th minute taking her to 18 goals for the season, joint top scorer with Kemina Webber. Rachel Palmer adding a 3rd goal late in the first half scoring from the edge of the box. 3-0 up at half-time, Luton kept Crawley from adding further goals in the 2nd half. This coming potential title winning clash with Billericay Town Ladies being played at The Peoples Pension Stadium home of Crawley Town FC.
Billericay Town Ladies have also enjoyed a strong first season following promotion to the FAWNL, Crawley runaway leaders, the Essex side neck and neck with them early on are in a strong position to finish runners-up. 5 points clear of the chasing pack with games in hand 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC. A trip to play Cambridge United WFC this Sunday. The hosts having won back the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup on Tuesday success coming on the back of a great spell that had seen 7 points won in 8 days to move them up into the top half. A busy spell Billericay ending that run with a goal in each half to seal a 2-0 win to return home with 3 points. Danica Dougal scoring at the back post in the 42nd minute off a free-kick to put Billericay into the lead. Zoe Rushen running clear to head the ball home from another free-kick on halfway to secure win in the 2nd period.
Leyton Orient WFC were playing this Sunday’s league match at Leyton Orient FC’s Breyer Group Stadium. Up to 3rd in South East Division One were looking to go further clear of the sides below as they took on Norwich City Ladies. The opening goal coming midway through the first half the hosts getting in front through an own goal as Sophie Le Marchand played the ball into the area. A 2nd goal coming 4 minutes later Sualia Cardoso Queni finding the back of the net. Leyton Orient going into the half-time interval 3-0 up with Hayley Barton scoring a terrific goal inside the area. The hosts advantage further strengthened early in the 2nd half with Barton scoring her 2nd of the game in the 46th minute to make it 4-0. Norwich pulling a goal back in the final 15 minutes with Chelsea Garrett scoring. Leyton Orient winning 4-1 a 5 point gap now to 4th and 5th placed Enfield Town Ladies and Actonians Ladies who happen to be their next two league opponents big games in the battle for final position.
A first league win of 2019 for Ipswich Town Women as the Suffolk side clinched the 3 points away from home on Sunday in a battling encounter with 2nd bottom Denham United Ladies. The 8th placed side taking an early lead in the game going ahead after just 12 seconds! Natasha Thomas catching the Denham defence in possession and firing the ball into the back of the net. Toni-Ann Wayne seeing an effort ruled out for offside with quarter of an hour gone, Denham getting back to 1-1 in the 25th minute Kayleigh Currivan getting the goal. Ipswich restoring their lead late in the first half with Wayne making it 2-1. Denham battled in search of a reply Ipswich defending held on the win secured in the final 2 minutes with Thomas forcing her way through to score her 2nd of the game to win it 3-1. Ipswich closing the gap to the midfield pack. Congratulations too for Sian Fagg who made her 100th appearance for Ipswich at the weekend. An outfield player that has been doing a great job in goal over the past 2 seasons.
100 appearances for Ipswich for Sian Fagg
Stevenage Ladies also winning away from home on Sunday to move themselves 8 points clear of 2nd bottom Denham and onto the tail of the midfield pack above. Were taking on AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A screamer from outside the box from Ashleigh Deacon firing Stevenage into a 1-0 lead at half-time. Wimbledon with a chance to level the scores awarded a penalty in the 50th minute, Stevenage’s Gemma Biggadike making the save. The lead doubled on 57 minutes Stevenage awarded a free-kick outside the box Shona Chitate with a great strike over the wall to double the lead. Wimbledon getting it back to 2-1 with 25 minutes left to play Caroline Bisson on target, Stevenage defending holding out to get the 3 points.
More Final action this Sunday on Women’s Football East the 3rd in 8 days, a trip down south this time to Aveley FC for the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this season being contested by Bowers & Pitsea Ladies & Lawford Ladies.
A later kick-off for today’s final as part of #FemaleFinalsDay Essex County FA hosting 3 finals in one day for the first time all 3 as the hashtag suggests female. An early start with the U14s Girls Cup Final kicking off at 10am followed by the U16s Girls Cup with the Essex Women’s Trophy Final kicking of at around 4pm. A celebration of girls & women’s football across the county.
A great day to for Billericay Town’s girls sides with the club winning both trophies. Their U14s beating Tigers Girls (Yellow) 2-0 with both goals scored by Elise Jennings in the 1st half. Billericay Town Girls U16s also enjoying success with 2nd half goals from Freya Fuller, Bryony Barron & Mya Turner securing a 3-1 win over C&K Basildon. A successful day for Billericay Town Ladies youth sides a bright future the women’s Reserves side top of Essex Women’s Division One whilst the 1st team will be aiming to win the County Cup itself on Thursday 18th April.
Onto this afternoon’s final, a new format for the Essex Women’s Trophy brought in last season, the sides knocked out in the early rounds of the County Cup getting a 2nd shot at winning silverware entering the Trophy. ERWFL Division One side, Hutton Ladies winning the trophy last year. Once again it will be an all ERWFL Division One Final.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies are an established side in the ERWFL, A new name merging with Bowers & Pitsea FC, having been Little Thurrock Dynamos, a strong partnership growing between the clubs the ladies side having a state of the art 3G pitch to play on are amongst the sides gunning for promotion in Division One. Have plans to grow a new Development side and U18s in the pipeline for next season.
Lawford Ladies made the step up to regional football this season. A baptism of fire with a heavy loss in their opening fixture. Rallied well as they went on to win their next 4 league & cup matches were undefeated in six as they proved they could compete well at this level have held their own since in what has proven to be a very competitve league this season. Injuries of late have taken a toll along with player departures but the club has a large squad to call upon.
The two sides have met once so far this season their league game at Bowers & Pitsea’s Len Salmon Stadium seeing the home side win 3-2.
Road to the Final
A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Into the quarter finals. Bowers & Pitsea were at home playing Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Southend United Ladies, goals from Georgia Fraser and Eloise Ives securing a 2-1 win. Lawford Ladies were on the road taking on another Essex Women’s Premier Division side, Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A brace from Stacey Teager along with goals from Erin Hornby, Susan Jackson, Hayley Chapman & Daisy Canny seeing Lawford with the game 6-2.
Into the last 4. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were at home to another Essex Women’s Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers who can be a handful for anyone on their day. Drawing 1-1 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea scored twice in the 2nd half to book their place in the final with Georgia Fraser on target once again along with a brace for striker Sophie Dowman. Lawford Ladies were away to last season’s beaten trophy finalists Silver End United Ladies. The sides were drawing 2-2 after the 90 minutes were up heading into extra-time Lawford struck twice more to get through to today’s final,
The#FemaleFinalsDaytaking place at Aveley FC. Is a smart new stadium boasting a fantastic looking clubhouse facility a large ground floor bar with suite upstairs both overlooking the pitch a kitchen serving hot food and drinks. Hosted the Essex Women’s County Cup Final last season. The finals day this Sunday, a glorious spring day bright and sunny, perfect weather (can’t say that very often). The 3G surface offering plenty of width. Seating on both sides of the pitch the clubhouse putting one side in shade as the sun begins to fall.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Stephens (C), Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Danielle Styles, Natalie Strange, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds, Holly Moore, Eloise Ives, Georgia Fraser & Sophie Dowman. Subs – Taylor Parrish, Kerrie Thomas, Alesi Harris, Keegan Russell & Emma Mackie.
Bowers & Pitsea to get the final underway kicking off 1st half wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and red and white hooped socks with Lawford lining up opposite in sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defend the attempted crossfield diagonal ball right to left intercepted by Lawford midfielder Megan Bamber.
Bowers & Pitsea press forwards coming inside from the left Holly Moore plays a cross into the area the ball intercepted by the Lawford defence the clearance straight back to Bowers & Pitsea sent back into the box low for Eloise Ives top of the area she turns well getting a shot away the ball running wide across goal. Jodie Sharp carries the ball on for Lawford sends a long diagonal ball on for captain Daisy Canny to chase down as she peels away to the right, Courtney Fraser at left back doing well in defence for Bowers & Pitsea preventing her getting in behind.
A positive start from Bowers & Pitsea the ball with Georgia Fraser pushed into Sophie Dowman the striker shooting from range 25 yards left of the D her attempt safe in the hands of Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead. Canny getting onto the ball likes to take players on makes progress down the left wing winning a throw in. The final ball in cut out by Natalie Strange at the back for Bowers & Pitsea who go straight on the offensive.
Lawford Ladies captain, Daisy Canny
Play turned around as Bamber brings the ball on fr Lawford put forwards early up to the attackers, Susan Jackson putting pressure on the Bowers & Pitsea back line in an attempt to win it 25 yards out the ball deflected left straight into the path of Canny she takes it on into the area, goalkeeper an captain Charlotte Stephens out to try and close her down going to ground Canny taking the ball on around her left of goal the angle closing as she enters the six yard box her shot in cannoning away of the base of the near post.
Shaping up to be a lively game both sides looking to attack quickly, Ella Boyden for Lawford playing the ball up to Jackson, Danielle Styles winning it back for Bowers & Pitsea. Lawford are awarded a free-kick wide out wide, Sheena Foley to play the set piece the ball up towards the top of the area dealt with by Bowers & Pitsea’s Taylor Adcock. Courtney Fraser on for Holly Moore on the left her ball into the box for Dowman is closed down quickly no room to turn and get a shot away.
Space on the right for Bowers & Pitsea as they counter the ball turned out wide to the wing by Dowman central she turns and bursts into the area as Ives takes it on getting into the corner her cross drilled in square towards the near post Dowman timing her run perfectly meeting it attempts to flick in on the ball put wide. Dowman and Georgia Fraser combine central 20 yards out the latter getting a shot in on target, Newstead right behind it.
Canny continues to cause problems for the Bowers & Pitsea defence in attack moving all across the back line coming right support from Tess Ryan, Styles moving out to close her down puts the ball out for a throw. Lawford gain ground on the left a throw put inside to Canny turning and pushing on inside the box wriggling away from her marker gets a shot away under challenge, Stephens down low to claim it at her near post.
Chloe Butler clearing the ball for Lawford Ladies
Ebony Moore with an opportunity to shoot as she gets forwards for Bowers & Pitsea drifting in central the ball coming to her following good work from Dowman on the left, her shot held by Newstead. Bowers & Pitsea are starting to stretch the Lawford back line find gaps in behind pull players out of position as they push players forwards, Adcock and Abbie Simmonds doing well in the middle of the park. Foley clearing for Lawford, they attempt to break Strange intercepts keeps the attack alive.
GOAL! The ball played in towards Dowman who hassles the Lawford defence well trying to gain an advantage right outside the area sees Holly Moore free to her left the pass played into her Moore catches it sweetly her 1st time strike flying into the top corner to give Bowers & Pitsea the lead midway through the 1st half 1-0.
Holly Moore with a wonder hit to put Bowers & Pitsea into the lead
Bowers & Pitsea regain the ball from the restart break with Ives away on the right her cross in high across the face of goal, Dowman jumping at the far post can’t get to it. Georgia Fraser has the ball fired into her 20 yards out, attempting to bring it down and get a shot away is closed down by Lawford’s Foley the defender winning the tackle. Sharp sends the ball on for Canny bursting away on the right, Styles across to challenge, the ball kept alive by Ryan who takes it on down the line before being fouled. The ball into the area cleared by Bowers & Pitsea.
Lawford Ladies, Sheena Foley
Simmonds central puts the ball in for Georgia Fraser turns infield 20 yards out lets fly with a shot rising, Newstead does brilliantly the goalkeeper throwing her hands up, getting a touch to push the ball up and onto the crossbar as she falls back. Lawford make a change with Claire Gauntlett coming off for Jade Heath. End to end action Georgia Fraser spreading play to the right for Ives bringing the ball inside, Bamber is back defending for Lawford, the ball up field quickly with Canny after it, Strange defending fr Bowers & Pitsea.
The ball played forwards, Jackson after it, an error from the Bowers & Pitsea defence the clearance missed the ball in behind the attacker onto it right outside the box has Sharp free to the left of the D the ball rolled into her path her 1st time effort is dragged wide at the near post.
GOAL! Bowers & Pitsea double their lead with 33 minutes played the ball through the middle rapidly on for Georgia Fraser her run taking her in behind the defence closing in on the area shoots plenty of power behind the ball the strike over the keeper before she can set herself and on into the back of the net beyond 2-0.
Georgia Fraser double Bowers & Pitsea Ladies lead
Bowers & Pitsea press the attack getting forwards Georgia Fraser linking with Ives on the right a clever back heel putting Ives on down the wing her cut back finding Fraser top of the area she cross in central headed clear. Holly Moore taking the ball on down the left comes inside Hayley Chapman getting back at her sliding in to win the ball. Sharp is quick with the ball at her feet brings it on for Lawford aims to release Canny on the right, Courtney Fraser making the tackle.
Courtney Fraser tackling, Lawford’s Daisy Canny
Late in the first half Bowers & Pitsea make their first change, Georgia Fraser the player off on comes Keegan Russell to join the attack. Soon after comes the first corner of the game to be played in from the left the ball finds Simmonds coming near side stooping into the header turns it goalwards her attempt straight at Newstead who gets her gloves firmly around the ball.
Lawford goalkeeper Jamie Newstead saving from an Abbie Simmonds header
Two clinical finishes from Bowers & Pitsea see them leading 2-0 at half-time. Have played well getting forwards in number, Down and Georgia Fraser leading the line well with good support on the wings from Holly Moore and Ives. Their movement dragging Lawford out of position at times. Lawford not out of it by any means have had fewer chances but opportunities to score themselves, Canny striking the post early on.
Lawford out first after the half-time break have made a change Erin Hornby is on, Chapman the player off, a bit of reorganising with Jackson going over to right back Ryan up top with Canny. Bowers & Pitsea also making a change with Emma Mackie on for Simmonds. Lawford playing the ball straight up to the attackers from kick-off an early touch 2nd half for Stephens in the Bowers & Pitsea goal as she gives the call.
An early corner for Lawford the ball hooked behind by the Bowers & Pitsea defence players forwards the delivery in high taken well by Stephens at the near post. Lawford with a positive start to the 2nd half the ball crossed into the area from the left cushioned down by Heath with Ryan in close support on the penalty spot her shot charged down the ball rebounding out gathered by Bamber 25 yards out her strike back in saved by Stephens.
Lawford attack left Sharp on for Canny down the line her cross in low, Styles getting in front of Ryan to clear the ball only finding Bamber she puts it back in towards Heath, central her shot smashed against a defender. Lawford getting bodies forwards, Styles busy in the Bowers & Pitsea defence out to charge down Sharp as canny central plays the ball out to her on the left the cleared ball gathered by Canny inside the D, is quickly closed down still manages to snatch a shot goalwards a deflection taking it wide for a corner.
Megan Bamber coming forwards for Lawford Ladies
A change for Bowers & Pitsea with Georgia Fraser returning to the action Holly Moore coming off. Lawford continue to cause Bowers & Pitsea problems winning the ball higher up the pitch now Bamber able to drive on with the ball. A free-kick in the middle for Lawford, Adcock dealing with the delivery towards the top of the area for Bowers & Pitsea. Taylor Parrish comes on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore.
Styles winning the ball at the back for Bowers & Pitsea play stretched as it’s played on to Dowman turns her marker getting away on the right wins a throw that brings a corner kick. A high ball into the six yard box attacked, played stopped with a Lawford player down. The game moving past the hour Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot, win a free-kick in a central position 30 yards from goal right of the D, Hornby on it fires the ball into the box runs wide evading an outstretched leg.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, Danielle Styles
GOAL! Moments later Canny is brought down attacking in a similar position more central this time a couple of yards closer. Hornby is there again with Sharp. Sharp to take is a superb strike over the ball dipping late to find the top corner little Stephens can do as she throws herself across her goal Lawford’s excellent start to the 2nd half brings a goal 2-1.
Jodie Sharp makes it 2-1 with a brilliant free-kick for Lawford Ladies
Ryan turning central plays the ball on both Canny and Sharp after it left inside the box almost get in each others way Canny getting clear for Sharp to shoot the effort rising over the crossbar. Newstead comes out well to the edge of her area to close down Dowman as the Bowers & Pitsea striker runs in clear behind her defence. Lawford have Bowers & Pitsea on the back foot Ryan sending the ball on for Sharp getting away on the left her low driven cross cut out at the near post by Parrish a corner conceded.
The corner left side played in high Styles with the commanding header sends it behind for a 2nd corner. The 2nd taken short before being played in the delivery met by Boyden at the near post a glancing header taking the ball wide across the face of goal. Lawford bring off Ryan send on Stacey Teager to join the attack. Pushing on are taking risks at the back Bowers & Pitsea ready to hit on the counter Dowman spinning in behind to get into the box as she lays the ball off for Georgia Fraser left drives a cross in across the face of goal Dowman going for it can’t make contact.
Sophie Dowman always looking for an opening in attack for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies
Mackie back to slide in win the ball break up a Lawford attack as they look to get forwards through the middle. Canny turning inside from a throw on the left she shoots Styles blocking the loose ball save quickly gathered by Stephens. Bowers & Pitsea win a series of corners, can’t get a telling shot away the 3rd delivery taken low on her line by Newstead. A double change for Lawford Jackson and Boyden off, on come Harriett Young and Ryan. 10 minutes left to play Bowers & Pitsea bring Holly Moore back on for Russell.
GOAL! Moore nearly returned to the action scoring her 2nd of the game to give Bowers & Pitsea a vital 3rd goal. The attack beginning on the right the ball squared onto Dowman positioned to of the area, her first time strike doesn’t quite come off still has possession sends it on to Moore clear to the left of the D, another clinical strike hit first time sailing into the top corner 3-1.
GOAL! Game over! Not quite as Lawford push forwards numbers into the box as Canny takes the ball on down the right a cross driven high into the box met by Styles central the defenders header parrying the ball high into the the air a scramble for the ball inside the six yard box the ball smashed in inside the post to reduce the deficit once again. Ryan with the goal 3-2.
Tess Ryan gets it back to 3-2 for Lawford Ladies
An ambitious effort from Moore 25 yards out, but why not when you’re on a hat-trick in a final her effort safely held by Newstead. A flare up in the middle of the park with Dowman and Young coming together quickly defused by referee Reece Morley, Young shown a yellow card. A frantic finish to the game Lawford trying for a 3rd whilst Bowers & Pitsea aim to put the game to bed, Moore playing it on for Dowman has Georgia Fraser ahead of her receiving the pass her cross into the box is won by Lawford’s Foley. Into injury time a free-kick for Lawford wide left for a push on Canny the ball played in central, Teager with it into her body back to goal, Styles on top of her preventing the striker from turning. The ball cleared the final whistle blows and Bowers & Pitsea win the Essex Women’s Trophy Final.
Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 3-2 Lawford Ladies
That was a very entertaining final, a great contest and showcase for the game played on the whole in good spirits. Bowers & Pitsea having the better of the first half taking the lead with two clinical strikes looked comfortable, Lawford had opportunities however reorganising for the 2nd half began it well getting onto the front foot early and getting the goal that play deserved as they restricted their opponents up the other end. Into the last 10 minutes Bowers & Pitsea getting what would prove to be a vital 3rd goal again from another superb strike. Lawford though came straight back to make it 3-2 and ensure no comfortable finish to the final pushed Bowers & Pitsea all the way.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders as is often the case. Holly Moore with two special goals. Georgia Fraser too with a well taken finish dong well in attack for Bowers & Pitsea. Daisy Canny a threat up front for Lawford all game. In the end goes to a player who has already won one of these already this season back then through it was for an attacking display this afternoon she was a commanding figure in the heart of the Bowers & Pitsea defence, getting in vital blocks, closing down well and reading threats Danielle Styles.
FAWSL star, Kate Longhurst present to present the players with their medals and the trophy itself.
Winning captain Charlotte Stephens with Kate Longhurst
Congratulations to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s Trophy.
An enjoyable trip down to Essex for this afternoon’s final, an entertaining game Lawford pushing Bowers & Pitsea all the way. Essex FA doing a great job making the day a special occasion a fantastic programme too. My thanks as always to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today, the match reports don’t work without them.
Once again saving the biggest of the Round-Up’s till last it was a busy weekend with two County Cup Finals taking place as well as a host of county league matches. Sunday beginning with an 11am kick-off at The County Ground Letchworth for the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final. An early start for Women’s Football East too travelling to watch the game. Stevenage Ladies into a fifth successive final have won 3 out of the last 4 including back to back wins, were looking for a 3rd win as they looked t retain the trophy against Watford Ladies U23s.
The County Ground with a new 3G playing surface as well as redevelopments to the clubhouse. Bright sunshine Watford’s young side starting brightly pressing the ball defender Sydney Hinchcliffe firing them into the lead the ball cleared off the line from a corner struck back in over the line. Stevenage responded well Watford coping doubling their lead late in the first half Andie Dickens firing a shot in from the top of the area.
Stevenage pushed for a reply but it wouldn’t come Watford willing on the counter getting a corner Anaisa Harvey rising highest inside the six yard box to score their 3rd goal. Counter attacking play bringing a 4th goal Eshe Johnson running clear with a composed finish. Watford keeping a clean sheet up the other end celebrating at the final whistle as they win the Cup for the 1st time. Click on the link to read the full match report https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-369/
Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup
In neighbouring Bedfordshire on Sunday afternoon their was also Women’s County Cup Final action, with Luton Town Ladies meeting Bedford Ladies at Ampthill Town FC. Luton Town Ladies dominant in recent seasons that run ended by Bedford Ladies last season. The sides meeting again this season Bedford Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division looking for back to back successes. Luton Town Ladies having a tough season battling at the bottom of FAWNL South East Division One.
Few chances in the game early on the game livening up with 28 minutes gone Bedford striking the post, Eden Kibron firing in from close range moments later to put Bedford into the lead. Luton pressing for an equaliser it wouldn’t come shots saved Bedford Ladies with the narrow victory winning the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup for the 2nd successive season. Congratulations.
Bedford Ladies, 2018/19 Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup Winners
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
The title race remains as strong as ever in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with the top two gaining 3 more points along with Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies who climb up to 3rd with games in hand.
Northwood Ladies top of the table with a good away win against St Albans Ladies last time out were on the road again this weekend taking on Sharnbrook WFC. Emma Steele continuing her great form in front of goal for Northwood scoring a hat-trick on Sunday to take her account to 19 for the season. Goals too for Leanne Jones, Danielle Tyler and Zamina Rahemtulla in a 6-1 victory. Millie Scott with the goal for Sharnbrook.
2nd placed St Albans Ladies awarded the 3 points over Houghton Athletic Ladies remain a point behind Northwood.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies move into 3rd position 3 points behind the leaders with 3 games in hand. A strong position they were at home on Sunday in Division One taking on Sherrardswood Ladies. A brace from Charlotte Rose along with goals from Charlene Turturici-Clarke and a 1st of the campaign for Amy Bentall securing a 4-0 victory.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
A great weekend for Hitchin Belles in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two as they win at home and see their rivals drop points to open up a 5 point lead at the top of the table. A tough game for Hitchin Bells on Sunday at home against 4th placed Royston Town Ladies Development a close run reslut Kierra Gabriel and Hannah Tofts scoring for the visitors. Hitchin Belles with a potent attack this season 4 players into double figures 3 of them were on target with a goal each to see the game won 3-2 with, Keira How, Amy Jack and Charlotte Peters all celebrating.
Hitchin Town Ladies in 2nd spot going into Sunday’s match were away to 5th placed Evergreen Ladies, the hosts scoring through Natalie Maher just past the half hour. That goal proving to be the winner as Evergreen battled to keep Hitchin Town from finding a reply.
That result coupled with a win on the road Letchworth Garden City Eagles a 4th straight win with one result a walk over sees them up into 2nd place themselves in Division Two. Were taking in Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Tayla Murray, Katie Smith and a 1st of the season for Simone Leah Straughn sealing a 3-0 win for the visitors. Who like Hitchin Town Ladies have a game in hand on Hitchin Belles.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
A big game at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday with the top two going head to head with just a point between them. AFC Dunstable Ladies Development with the narrow advantage hosting 2nd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Dunstable unbeaten dropping just 2 points so far and those back on the opening day, Woburn & Wavendon losing just the once that early in the season in the reverse fixture with Dunstable. Giselle Randell firing Woburn & Wavendon into a 20th minute lead. The visitors holding the narrow advantage at half-time, Dunstable getting back on level terms on the hour through Nicola Hollick’s 4th goal of the season. The scores level with less than 15 minutes left Bianca Vassell, Dunstable’s top scorer scored to put the hosts 2-1 up with her 30th goal of the season. The three points guaranteed in the final minute with Hollick on target for her 2nd of the game to see Dunstable go 4 points clear at the top winning 3-1.
One goal in it between Kempston Rovers Ladies and Langford Ladies on Sunday. Langford’s Amber Clark claiming her 20th goal of the season securing the 3 points to take Langford back into 3rd place in the Division Three table.
A high scoring draw seeing the points shared on Sunday in Division Three between Stotfold Juniors Ladies & AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. Molly Norman making her 1st start for Stotfold Juniors scoring a hat-trick. Holly Konopka also on the score sheet with a goal. 4 for Stotfold Juniors. 4 too for the visitors with Kayleigh Humphries making her 1st league start scoring a hat-trick along with an 18th goal of the season for top scorers Chloe Urbanowicz.
At last a first league win of the season for Bedwell Rangers Ladies, their first 3 points of the season coming away from home against 2nd bottom Buntingford Town Ladies. Two players completing hat-tricks in the match Jessica Sullivan with 3 more has 12 now for the season. Leah Tomlin netting 3 goals too one from the penalty spot. Rachel Young with a brace too for Bedwell with Alicia Fieldsend also scoring in a 9-0 with that takes Bedwell off the bottom.
The weather a volatile mix on Sunday clubs experiencing a bit of everything, games even abandoned as a result, notably the Division Two clash between Freethorpe Ladies & Gorleston Rangers Ladies. There were plenty of gals around in those fixtures that were completed.
In Division One, Thorpe United Ladies were back in action after clinching the league title a trip to Aylsham Ladies on Sunday. Thorpe have had their share of injuries during the season. Found themselves trailing 3-1 at half-time with Vicky Lubbock, Leanne Symonds and Katrina finding the back of the net for Aylsham. Thorpe far from content to sit back and take it easy in their remaining 2 league matches mounting a spectacular come back 2nd half to win the game 8-3! Ex-Aylsahm player Millie Cursons amongst the goalscorers, so to Laura Hedtke along with braces for 3 players, captain Rebekah Lake scoring her 16th & 17th gals of the season. Joanne Hooper having been struggling with a hamstring tear back amongst the goals with first goals for Lisa Webster in just her 2nd appearance for Thorpe United Ladies.
The other two league games in Division One, derby matches, 2nd placed side Sprowston Ladies away to Sprowston Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Melissa Belsey with her 9th goal of the season putting Sprowston Athletic 1-0 up at half-time. The points shared in the finish as Sprowston got it back t 1-1 in the 2nd period.
The other derby match saw Beccles Town Ladies hosting Bungay Town Ladies this Sunday. Not much in it in the finish, Bungay not taking all their chances goalless at half-time the visitors finally breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half Imogen McGregor turning the ball in to score her 6th goal of the season. Proving to be the winner the 3 points lifting Bungay off the bottom of the table at Beccles expense.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Taverham United Women remain 7 points clear at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two with a big win away from home this Sunday. Taking on Thetford Town Ladies the hosts short with just 10 available, that went down to 9 through injury, Taverham strong in attack this season taking full advantage, 5-1 up at half-time went on to win the game 13-1. Rebecca Sutton top scoring in the game for Taverham with 5 goals blazes past 30 goals for the season her tally 34 now. Abbie Walker challenging her hitting a brace on Sunday has 28 herself. There were braces too for Charlotte Hurren and Tiegan Robinson with Hannah Artis and Katie Dunning also getting a goal a piece.
Fakenham Town Ladies move back into 2nd spot playing again after almost a month were also away this Sunday a trip to play Hockering Ladies who were short on numbers again with 9 available on Sunday, fought well against Fakenham who eventually ran out 8-0 winners. 4 goals in the game for Holly Davies making her Fakenham debut. A brace for Kayleigh Robb as well as a goal each for Megan Spurrell and Jennifer Codman.
Long Stratton Women were in 2nd position going into the weekend fixtures a trip to play Tavern Ladies on Sunday. A lively game played in awful weather at times, the sides drawing 2-2 at half-time Tavern getting the better of their opponents in the 2nd half to emerge with a 6-3 win. A hat-trick for Atlanta Griffith takes her goals to 18 for the season. Top scorer Katie Hart-Copsey scoring another brace now has an incredible 41 goals to her name for Tavern with Nicole Costin also celebrating a goal. Samantha Walker with a brace for Long Stratton with Charlie Head also scoring.
In the other league game to bring you from Division Two on Sunday, Bure Valley Wildcats with just the bare 11 available enjoyed a strong first half at home to Horsford Women to lead 4-0 at half time. A further goal added 2nd half Bure Valley recording a 5-0 win Charlie Cooper shooting past the keeper for 4 of those goals has 25 to her name for the season now. Carrie Last with the other goal her 11th of the campaign.
