A Tuesday night Cup Final interrupting affairs, this weeks Round-Up’s can resume. Beginning with Cambridgeshire as it fits in nicely with the posts, as you need only look at the one below this to catch up on events in the big game in the County this week the Women’s Invitation Cup Final played at The Abbey Stadium for the first time, Cambridge City Ladies winning the trophy for the first time last season taking on rivals and their final opponents from last season Cambridge United WFC. The Round-Up usually taking a look back at events I’m only repeating snippets of the report written in the early hours of this morning.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
A handful of matches taking place in the league & cup on Sunday. 4 played in total. Two of those the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup. Their 1st team going great guns at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies Development are having an equally impressive season, top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership are now through to the League Cup Final too as they won convincingly at home in their semi-final against Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies. Freya Standing on target for a hat-trick for Cambridge their were goals to for Anna Kanz, Yasmin Crow, Lucy Hurst, Rachel Littlewood and Rebecca Langthorpe in an 8-0 win.
Cambridge City’s opponents in the League Cup Final will be Cambridge University Women after they knocked out current holders ICA Sports Ladies at the semi-final stage. Cambridge University at home, the sides going into half-time goalless. ICA Sports taking an early 2nd half lead. Cambridge University strong coming back to level the scores with a worldie from Eliza Croop. Went on to complete a hat-trick to put Cambridge University through to the final with a 3-1 win. Dates and venue for the final to be confirmed in due course.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
One league match played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership on Sunday saw, March Town Ladies at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Little separating the sides 4th down to 7th final position very much remains for the taking. Both sides getting a goal in the first half drawing 1-1, went on to battle as goalless 2nd half to take away a share of the points, Emma Searle scoring for March her 8th of the season. Marie Stubbings finding the back of the net for Fulbourn once again way out in front in their goal scoring charts this Sunday’s goal her 17th of the season.
Histon Ladies Reserves awarded the 3 points climb to 4th spot an away win against Netherton United Ladies.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One game too in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, contrasting fortunes for the 6 sides in the league 3 sides with just the one win each at the bottom of the table Park Ladies won 5-3 against Isleham United Ladies last Sunday to get a 2nd 3 point haul. It was Isleham United’s turn this weekend in a close win at home to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Laura Todd scoring a goal in each half enough to secure Isleham’s 2nd win of the season in a 2-1 result having been leading 1-0 at half-time.
Back on the road less than 48 hours after watching my first Cup Final of the season, a trip to Cambridge this evening to The Abbey Stadium, home of League Two side Cambridge United for this years Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final, once again to be contested by Cambridge City Ladies & Cambridge United WFC.
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance being held at The Abbey Stadium for the very first time. Cambridge City Ladies the current holders winning it for the 1st time last season beating Cambridge United WFC in the final to end a long spell of domination of the County Cup by United.
Tonight’s prize on display, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup trophy
Close rivals and getting closer as Cambridge City Ladies are in a strong position at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division unbeaten with just 2 points dropped in 17 matches to date promotion to the FAWNL for the title winners joining Cambridge United WFC in the 4th tier of the woman’s football pyramid. Into the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Cup too are keen to retain the Invitation Cup for a 2nd successive season. Have goal scorers throughout their squad with Erin Davies leading the way with 22 goals, a further 5 players into double figures.
Cambridge United WFC playing in FAWNL South East Division One just as keen to regain the Invitation Cup themselves. Come into final with confidence gained form a good run of form bring 7 points from the last 3 league matches including a point against league leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies who had up till last weekend held a 100% winning record since joining the league.
The sides have met… twice this season after the now infamous pitch gate affair. drawn together in the FA Women’s Cup, City beating United in extra-time the game ordered to be replayed at United’s ground after City’s pitch was found to be too small. Tension afterwards United winning the replayed game. Rivals before it only served to rack up the tension but to be fair both clubs since have moved on, several players from both sides knowing each other very well, a number of the City squad having played for United when the club split some years ago. A game under the lights at an opportunity for the leading women’s clubs in Cambridgeshire to showcase the game. A quick turn around for both playing a game on Sunday, City winning 3-1 way to Brentwood. United winning 5-1 at home to Actonians Ladies.
Road to the Final
14 sides entering this season’s Invitation Cup competition, there were byes for Cambridge City Ladies & St Ives Town Ladies in the 1st Round. Cambridge United were draw away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds progressed with a dominant display winning 11-1.
Onto the quarter finals, Cambridge City were away taking on ERWFL Division One side Histon Ladies. A 3-0 win for the visitors putting them through to the last 4 of the competition. Cambridge United on the road too making the trip to Newmarket Town Ladies newly promoted to ERWFL Division One themselves United avoiding a banana skin winning 3-0 too to reach the semi-finals.
The pair avoiding each other in the semi-finals, Cambridge City full of goalscorers too strong for Championship South side Wisbech Town Ladies as they won away from home 13-0 to reach the final once again. Cambridge United at home in the semi-finals were taking on an up and coming force in the women’s game in Cambridgeshire, St Ives Town Ladies, unbeaten themselves in the league since joining ERWFL Division challenging for the title, Cambridge United winning the game by a single goal to advance to another final.
Tonight’s venue, The Abbey Stadium, home of Cambridge United FC and one of a number of women’s finals to take place at leading stadiums across the East with Portman Road hosting this years Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final and the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final to e played at Carrow Road for the first time. Great for the game in Cambridgeshire to feature at The Abbey Stadium. A clear, still night starting to cool, the crowd building before kick-off, the pitch looking good offering plenty of width.
The Abbey Stadium pitch
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Ceri Flye, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Robyn Phillips, Hannah Bodily, Anna Goggin, Amy Reed, Erin Davies, Laura Mills & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Carla Penny, Sarah Mosley, Bella Simmons, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Vicky Neal, Amy Howlett, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Mollie Coupar & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Liz Pamplin, Charlotte Crisp, Kelly Bingham, Fran Gough & Abi Davies.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
United to get the final underway kicking off the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. City opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Play out to the left United getting numbers forwards the ball rolled back in central Amy Howlett, space opening up for Emma Jenkins to get forwards from right back 20 yards out aiming to drive in on the area is closed down by City captain Becca Fay the ball won. A positive start to the game from United pressing the ball high up the pitch, Mollie Coupar left and Jade Bell right keeping wide as the ball is fed into the wings.
City win the ball central the diagonal pass finding Amy Reed advancing down the right wing, send it on with Erin Davies making the run to get into the area, Jemma Moore coming across to challenge her the ball out for a throw in. Coupar fouled out left a free-kick to United players come forwards from the back the delivery long into the area Coupar can’t quite get her head on it central nor defender Kayleigh Anne Burt as she stretches a leg out at the far post the ball running out of play.
A good sized crowd in attendance a buzz in the stand the game has whetted the appetite early on both sides looking to make ground, the pitch in great shape. Becky Shephard races into a gap opening up on the right, Lauren Tomlinson getting back on her the ball out for a throw. The City left back with a long throw in her armoury, so to United defender Jemma Moore as she comes forwards to take it combination play with Vicky Neal top of the area a high ball in drops wide of goal.
Anna Goggin in the middle for City wins possession rolls it on to Shannon Shaw in attack spins to get in behind as she lays it wide right to Reed the winger tackled by Bennett before she can deliver the final pass. Reed with the ball in the right for City bursting on does well past a tackle an early diagonal cross into the area low, Shaw coming towards it, Burt does very well to shield the ball as goalkeeper Savannah Smith comes out to dive forwards onto the ball. A lively contest now clear cut openings in the early stages. City push the attack, United dealing with the threat break the ball pushed on up to captain Kelley Blanchflower in attack, a powerful run with the ball turning in field gets a shot away from 20 yards out the ball spinning off the surface City goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru down falling left to claim the ball.
Jenkins plays a free-kick on the right halfway up the line, Bell after it does will combining with Blanchflower inside the area the pair win a corner kick, the end product landing in the side netting. A little bit of niggle creeping into the game is a derby after all and players form both sides are up to it. Bell and Tomlinson defused by the referee. City clearing the resulting United free-kick counter attack Reed bursting away on the right rolls it on for Laura Mills moving into an advanced position, a little too much weight on the ball, Moore able to get across Mills see it out of play.
Howlett on the ball central spreads play to Coupar left plays a early diagonal ball long into the area Bell after it attacks the goalkeeper near post, Mhunduru doing well to intercept and claim at the 2nd attempt as the pair come together. United’s defence well organised no room for City to turn in behind as the ball is played into the attackers, Mills seeing little of it on the left. Moore stepping out to clear her forwards ball almost playing Blanchflower in behind but not expecting it, City are able to recover. City with a throw on the left Tomlinson with the long throw, Davies with it as United fail to clear central turns inside spots Reed at the far post the ball played on, Smith seeing the threat out to intercept get her gloves firmly around the ball.
Play brought back for a free-kick for a foul on Coupar with no advantage the high ball into the box won by City centreback Robyn Phillips. United keeping the pressure on play out to the left a high cross into the near post Mhunduru jumping to lay claim. Coupar going for the ball central in front of the keeper fouls her as she attempts to put in a cross from the right. Play paused as Mhunduru needs treatment a word from the referee for Coupar. City’s goalkeeper up gingerly is okay to continue.
(photo credit Gary Reed)
Coupar constantly looking to attack with the ball at her feet pushes on down the left wing, Ceri Flye putting in a strong tackle to stop her in her tracks. Switching wings with Bell United with 15 minutes of the first half left, the ball won central the pass forwards, Coupar is obstructed 30 yards out to the right of the area United have a free-kick.
GOAL! From the set-piece the deadlock is broken, Shephard over it players forwards a gap central Howlett drifts in as Shephard squared the ball to her Howell turning it goalwards with her first touch the ball on low through bodies Mhunduru not getting down quick enough her touch not enough as the ball finds its way home just inside the post, United lead 0-1.
Cambridge United WFC’s Amy Howlett (photo credit Gary Reed)
United with better openings as the game progresses Shephard away on the right her cross long towards the far post the ball attacked at the far post Coupar heading over. City make the first change of the match with Bella Simmons on in attack for Shaw. Neal committing a foul, City with the free-kick high on the right the ball played on towards the top of the area Simmons back to goal trying to cushion it down and turn in behind closely marked Burt clears for United.
Phillips with quick reactions top to the area to push the ball of Blanchflower’s foot as she attempts to spin in behind from a pass to her right side. Blanchflower down inside the box receiving treatment can’t continue United making their first change Kelly Bingham the player coming on. City attack left side win a throw in an advanced position the ball on into the area with Hannah Bodily forwards six yards out sees the ball well into her body spins and shoots the ball blocked at close quarters by Burt.
(photo credit Gary Reed)
Mills with a menacing run through the middle is brought down as she attempts to play in Simmons the free kick 20 yards out as the first half draws to a close, Mills over it whips it in towards goal on target but lacks the height of pace to trouble Smith back on her line.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-1 Cambridge United WFC
The two sides head down the tunnel with United holding a narrow advantage leading 1-0. Goal scoring chances have been at a premium for both sides United the better of the two sides creating more especially down the flanks with Bell and Coupar lively. A well worked free-kick the difference between the sides, City not troubling Smith in the United goal the defence well drilled in front of her. A good contest so far.
City making two changes at half-time Sarah Mosley and Freya Standing on for Bodily and Reed as they get the 2nd half underway.
GOAL! A fantastic start to the 2nd half for United as they get forwards in behind City and are awarded a penalty kick. Coupar the player brought down inside the area as she breaks on the left sprinting into the box with the ball a short ball put into towards the near post she his taken out as the crowd goes up in appeal, the referee pointing to the spot Shephard to take fresh from scoring a clinically taken penalty at the weekend, is no less composed as she coolly sends the keeper the wrong way placing the ball into the bottom left corner of the net 0-2.
Becky Shephard from the penalty spot doubling United’s lead early in the 2nd half
A great start to the 2nd half for United, the last thing City wanted. Neal sliding in brings down Standing as she attempts to break a yellow card shown to the United player. Howlett going into the book moments later, City with the free-kick right side, United mark closely Bennett winning the ball back. Phillips defending for City heading the ball away inside her area as United have a free-kick out on the right wing. City upping the tempo the game livening up a few rash challenges coming in as a result.
The ball put on from a set-piece on the halfway line United’s Neal back to goal controls into her body turning right Bingham with the run receiving the pass blasts over from 25 yards out. Coupar leading the lie with Blanchflower off does well fouled by Fay central another yellow card brandished central the ball put into Coupar top of the area has Shephard in close support pushing the ball into her feet can’t get out of the way as Shephard smashes her shot against her the rebound spinning out right the shot taken first time whistles over the crossbar.
(photo credit Gary Reed)
City pushing on trying to find an opening United resolute in defence Coupar the outlet up top after the ball as it is cleared into the right channel, shooting from outside the area the ball bounces wide across the face of goal. Flye getting a good tackle in on Bell as she bursts away wide left. City’s Sarah Mosley on the ball central with a fantastic ball forwards for Mills to attack on the right getting hold of it crosses from the byline a superb ball into the six yard box Standing there gathers, tries to turn Burt brilliant against her defends well to prevent a shot and regaining possession clears.
(photo credit Gary Reed)
A double change for City Davies and Flye the players coming off on come Carla Penny and Reed back into the action. Simmons pushing on a good run with the ball making ground central her threaded pass for Standing in behind on the left intercepted. Phillips with a vital intercept at the back for City as United threaten to hit them on the counter the ball up to Coupar 30 yards out. City press in their search for a goal that would get them back into the game. Taking a few risks have too, Bell away as United counter play spread to Bingham right her cross in too close to the keeper. United making a change Howlett off on comes, Charlotte Crisp in the middle.
Simmons wide right the ball put inside Mills combining with Standing top of the area a one two Mills in right side a cross driven across the face of goal. Simmons moving about the pitch searching for an opening cuts in from the left a 25 yards strike following no trouble for Smith. Standing out of nothing has the ball at her feet as United fail to clear hooks a shot goalwards from distance 25 yards out her effort caught by Smith. United get away down the left a good delivery into the area from the cross Tomlinson doing well heading the threat away for City at the far post.
Roll on roll off substitutes City make a change as Tomlinson comes off at the back City bringing on another attacker with Megan Tonks on. Impressive in front of goal for City’s Development side so far this season with 28 goals to her name. City have to push on now risk gaps opening up at the back. Bell finding room wide left driving on her cross into the box Shephard the target the ball taken off her foo by the City defence a corner conceded. On the right the ball in towards the near post area Neal up to meet it twisting as she looks to put it on towards goal the header wide.
Simmons is replaced by Shaw with the clock running down. Fay stops Coupar as the United attacker presses. United remain strong at the back, Burt marshalling the defence well. Coupar having run herself int the ground coming off for United, Abi Davies replacing her. A coming together between Moore and Standing outside the box right of the D the shot blasted wide from 20 yards. Moore down treatment needed a sore one is helped off Fran Gough coming on to join the defence as the game heads towards stoppage time.
GOAL! No comfortable finish to the game as City get a goal back in the 90th minute a clearance send back up towards Tonks 20 yards out central isn’t closed down time to pick her spot the ball fired in low, Smith sees it late diving to her right can’t reach it as the ball squeezes inside the post 1-2.
3 minutes of stoppage time added all of a sudden a nervy finish to the game. Bennett cutting out a past put on down the right for City. Mills booked late on for a foul on Bell as she tries to break. United keep the ball away from City in the closing moments holding onto their lead and celebrating as the regain the Invitation Cup.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Cambridge United WFC
The goal back coming just too late for City, not enough time to press for the equaliser. The early penalty 2nd half seeing United double their lead and worked hard in defence to keep solid and prevent City getting a goal as they pushed players on, ready to counter when the chance arouse. Comfortable at 2-0. Could sit back an absorb City’s attacks. A good contest between the 2 leading woman’s football sides in Cambridge, a great showcase for the game in the county, watched by a decent number, who enjoyed the contest.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time to pick this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Some notable performances mainly, Jade Bell often sets the tempo for a game and was lively on the wing for United. Kayleigh Anne Burt excellent at the back. The award goes to United’s Mollie Coupar a passionate and committed young player still learning her game a threat driving on with the ball, always looking for an opening and willing runner leading the line making herself available ready whenever United were on the attack.
Cambridge United WFC win this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final.
(photo credit Gary Reed)
A busy old week and it’s only Tuesday!…. well Wednesday now 1:55am as I’m typing this. Good job I love what I do, but best get some sleep. An entertaining final, great to see a decent sized crowd over 500 in attendance. Thanks to Cambridgeshire FA for the hospitality & to Gary Reed for the additional pictures. Two finals down plenty more to come.
Semi-final weekend for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup, the final to be held back at Ipswich Town FC’s Portman Road Stadium on Tuesday May 7th.
Ipswich Town Women will be their once again as they look to keep thier hands firmly on the trophy in a competition they have dominated in recent seasons. Are through to the final without kicking a ball after opponents AFC Sudbury Ladies took the decision to withdraw from the competition, the ERWFL Premier Division side having a tough season struggling with numbers and injuries.
Contesting the other semi-final were Haverhill Rovers Ladies leading the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South up against Needham Market Women top of the table in the Suffolk Women’s Division going into the match. Both making their debut season in women’s football a huge incentive a place in the County Cup Final at Portman Road for the winners. Played at a neutral venue Long Melford FC, Stoneylands Ground. A well contested match placed in front of a crowd of over 300, it was Needham Market who came out on top to win the game 4-1 and book their place in a 2nd final of the season. Currently the treble is on for Needham Market but no matter how thing’s go from here it’s a season that will live long in the memory.
Needham Market Women, through to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final (picture credit Gary Reed)
Suffolk Women’s Division
Whilst Needham Market Women were writing another chapter in their short history, their title rivals in the Suffolk Women’s Division, East Bergholt United Ladies were playing their vital game in hand at home to Woodbridge Town Ladies on Sunday. Level with Needham Market at the top a positive result would see them move clear of their rivals with both having 5 left to play. Just the one league defeat to date East Bergholt made no mistake getting the 3 points thanks to a 4-0 win. Elena Nitsche scoring a brace, along with a goal a piece for Annie Northwood and Stacey Teager.
Lauren Page was on target for a hat-trick on Sunday her first goals for Brantham Athletic Ladies as they came home with the 3 points comfortably beating bottom side University of Suffolk Women. Along with Page’s hat-trick their was all a brace for Shanice Leeks with Carra Marie Seeley also getting a goal. 3rd placed Brantham Athletic winning 9-0, Toni Mott and Jessica Ryan on the scoresheet too celebrating their first goals.
Coplestonians Ladies were also in action at the weekend at home to Walsham Le Willows Ladies in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Goals from Abigail Eley her 10th of the season, along with a first for Coplestonians for Ashley Bustos and a strike from Sophie Allen seeing the home side leading 3-1 at half-time. Laura Brame on target for Walsham Le Willows, pulled it back to 3-2 in the 2nd half with her 25th goal of the season, it wasn’t enough however as Coplestonians held on to take the 3 points.
Two games going the full distance in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday as the weather threw everything, a volatile afternoon. Leaders Leigh Ramblers Ladies game with Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves abandoned.
Chelmsford City Ladies had the opportunity to go up into 3rd place in the Premier Division with Harlow Town Ladies Development in league Cup action, ended up being postponed. Chelmsford on the road taking on Silver End United Ladies on Sunday. Mia Brisley with her 7th goal of the season and Georgia James scoring for the 11th time securing a 2-0 win for Chelmsford taking them 3 points clear into 3rd position in the table.
In the other game from the Essex Women’s Premier Division on Sunday afternoon Southend United Ladies were at home taking on Corringham Cosmos. The sides in a close fought contest Southend holding a narrow lead at the half-time interval leading 3-2. Rebecca Gallagher with both goals for Corringham Cosmos, completed her hat-trick midway through the 2nd half to bring up her 16th goal of the season. Southend though adding a further 2 goals in the 2nd period went on to win the match 5-3 to earn the 3 points. Ellie Wood scoring a brace with Lauren Johnson, Lilly Halliday and top scorer Emily Pert all getting on the scoresheet, Southend moving into 6th.
Essex Women’s Division One
Three matches played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday, the leading pair not in action. A brace for Giulia Francesconi her 6th & 7th goals of the season securing a 2-0 win for third placed Hutton Ladies Reserves away to Belhus Ladies.
Runwell Sports Ladies keep up the pressure for position in 4th a point behind Hutton with a good result away to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Aaryanna Simonelli celebrating a brace for Runwell moves onto 20 goals for the season. Rachael Selfe with a goal too has 10 now for the campaign. Goals too for Megan Marney, Rebecca Pope, Danielle Dorrington and Autumn Ranger in a 7-2 win. Runwell with some good results have played more games than the rest but look to be in good shape going forwards. Kesley Honeywood with both the goals for Chelmsford.
FC Clacton Ladies 5th in Division One were away to bottom side Island Ladies at the weekend. Top scorers Becky McDougall on target to score a brace with 15 now for the season, there was a brace too for Lauren Lucas with Charlotte Warren also scoring a goal her 10th of the campaign in a 5-1 win for the visitors. Kirsty Simmonds scoring the Island goal.
A 13 point lead now for Cambridge City Ladies at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. 17 unbeaten now in the league as they recorded a 16th win of the season against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday. A brace from striker Shannon Shaw taking her to 16 for the season along with a goal from Carla Penny also her 16th of the season securing a 3-1 win for Cambridge City in Essex. A quick turnaround as they return to action on Tuesday evening at The Abbey Stadium looking to defend the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup against rivals Cambridge United WFC, both sides showing great form going into the match.
A blow for 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies on Sunday as they lost for the third time this season away to Harlow Ladies. The Essex side picking up a great win at home as they look to consolidate a top half first in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. Olivia Steele scoring for Harlow her 10th of the season, also on target with a goal in a 2-0 win for Harlow was Bethany Chambers fast closing in on double figure herself with 9 goals now from just 5 appearances.
Other results going their way see Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies climb up into 2nd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division, themselves enjoying a fantastic first season playing at this level. A point earned in the reverse fixture recently Wymondham Town Ladies were hosting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies this Sunday. Wymondham getting into an early lead with Hannah Waters scoring inside 15 minutes to put them 1-0 up. Goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan with a couple of vital saves to keep Peterborough from levelling. Waters with the assist setting up Mollie O’Callaghan to double Wymondham’s lead in the 34th minute. Leah Newcombe with a goal line clearance as Peterborough looked to get back into the game, top scorer Laura Nicholls putting the result beyond doubt scoring a 3rd goal for Wymondham in the 90th minute.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Hannah Waters
One other game played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday saw Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Acle United Women. A close fought game the deadlock broken in the 85th minute with Broghan Scully finding the back of the net from a free-kick for Acle. The game though abandoned in the 94th minute due on medical advice after Acle’s Kate Pasque suffered a neck injury in a collision, unable to be moved an ambulance called for has since been released suffering from whiplash, wish her well. Whether the result will stand or a replay is called I will confirm as I have the news.
ERWFL Division One
With the top two not in league action on Sunday in ERWFL Division One it was a chance for the chasing pack to close the gap. Third placed Newmarket Town Ladies travelling to play Hatfield Peverel Ladies, the Essex side improving in recent games adding to their squad Newmarket struggling to get going needed a late equaliser to take a point from the game, Jasmine Cox scoring a brace has 5 now in 5 appearances for Hatfield Peverel. Brooke Wickens with her 12th of the season for Newmarket the visitors awarded a penalty late on Annabel Cuthbert scoring it to make it 2-2 with her 10th since joining the club.
Hutton Ladies in 4th were hosting Hertfordshire side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday. Hoddesdon with a good first half getting into a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Rebecca Scola, Kristina O’Connell an Rosy Wodhams late in the half. Hayley Piggott scoring for Hutton. The Essex side scoring another in the 2nd period, Wodhams getting her 2nd on 58 minutes and a goal in the 85th minute from Chloe Makepeace securing a 5-2 win for Hoddesdon.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies travelled down to Wodson Park on Sunday to take on Hertford Town Ladies who have been in great form recently with 2 wins and 3 draws from their last six games including 3 draws against the top two. The visitors from Norfolk going home with all 3 points in a narrow win, Hertford scoring 2 goals, Tiffany Forshaw struck twice for King’s Lynn to take the striker onto 20 for the season plus and own goal to win the game 3-2.
Histon Ladies were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies in Division one this Sunday, the Cambridgeshire side winning the game 2-0 to claim the 3 points with Alison Wright scoring her 11th goal of the season from the penalty spot. Lucy Julian also finding the back of the net with her first goal for Histon.
The game between Stevenage Ladies Reserves and Lawford Ladies abandoned due to a nasty injury to a Lawford player, wishing the player concerned all the best for a speedy recovery.
Coventry United Ladies extend their unbeaten league run this season to 14 matches with a big home result on Sunday to maintain their 4 point lead at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Playing in 3G were taking on Gillingham Ladies who have been stripped of their place in the FAWNL Plate Final after fielding an ineligible player in the semi-finals, this sees semi-final opponents West Bromich Albion Women advance to the final the 2nd season on a row this has occurred with Flyde Ladies suffering a similar fate last season.
Gillingham falling behind to an early goal as Lois Jefferies headed the ball in from a corner kick to give Coventry a 3rd minute lead. Amber Hughes sliding in at the far post to finish a cross doubling the lead midway through the first half. Jefferies making it 3-0 with a shot across the keeper, a 4th goal quickly followed with Amy Wathan striking moments later. Coventry leading 4-0 at the break. Hughes with her 2nd of the game extending Coventry’s lead just seconds into the 2nd half. A powerful strike from distance from Marie Gauntlett bringing up a 6th goal. Beth Merrick coming on in the 2nd half for Hughes making an immediate impact cutting inside to shoot from range and score. Wathan with a bullet header from another corner scoring Coventry’s 8th from close range. Gauntlett off a free-kick out wide scoring another spectacular goal from distance sealing a 9-0 victory for Coventry.
Also a big win too for 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies as they bring an end to a run of 3 straight defeats in the lead. Travelled to Essex on Sunday to play bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The visitors taking the lead midway through the first half Jess Lewry brought down inside the box stepping up to take and score the resulting penalty. A 2nd goal quickly coming Kim Stenning volleying in at the far post from a Nadine Bazan cross to open her Chichester account. Molly Clark sending in a 3rd goal 3 minutes later, a 4th goal coming in first half injury time with Clark getting her 2nd beating the keeper to score.
Chichester on the front foot right from the off in the 2nd half creating chances, 63 minutes on the clock an Clark gets her hat-trick. Sara Tubby introduced to the action making an instant impact putting the ball over the keeper to make it 6-0. Into the final 5 minutes Chichester pushing for more goals Clark finding the back of the net for her 4th of the afternoon. Tubby scoring her 2nd of the game in stoppage time to secure an 8-0 win for Chichester.
Cardiff City came back from a goal down to secure the win at home with a late goal on Sunday in a hard fought contest with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to maintain the pressure on 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies. The visitors scoring from a curled effort in the 13th minute, Milton Keynes Dons held the advantage for much of the game closing in on the final 20 minutes the Welsh side came back to level with Chloe Lloyd scoring from a 25 yarder to make it 1-1. The winner coming with 6 minutes left to play Cardiff hitting Milton Keynes on the break Kylie Nolan round the keeper pulling it back for Grace Horrell to chip over the defence from 18 yards out and score to win it 2-1.
A fantastic crowd of 846 in attendance at Home Park on Sunday as Plymouth Argyle Ladies took centre stage at the League One sides ground. Were hosting Portsmouth FC Women. The visitors taking the lead on 19 minutes from a short corner taker Katie James getting the ball back from Rachel Panting coming up the line and scoring with a superb strike from wide to make it 1-0 2 in 2 from James. Plymouth levelling the scores minutes later winning a corner up the other end the ball into the six yard box Kayley Lane turning six yards out and scoring to make it 1-1. Jade Widdows scoring her first Portsmouth goal last weekend restoring the visitors lead with 10 minutes left to play in the first half scoring from the angle outside the box to make it 2-1. Natasha Knapman introduced to the action for Plymouth in the 67th minute making an impact as she levelled the scores for the 2nd time in the match minutes later getting onto the end of a Lane cross to see Plymouth earn a share of the points.
Queens Park Rangers Women came back from 2 goals down at home on Sunday to earn themselves a point against Loughborough Foxes Women. Goalless heading into the final minute of the first half Tiana Hicks bringing the ball on getting a shot away from the top of the area finding the bottom corner to put Loughborough into the lead her first goal of the season. An hour played Loughborough bring on Eva Rogers another substitute making an immediate impact on hand to bury a shot from inside the box after Shauna Chambers blast was blocked the rebound falling kindly. QPR getting a goal back almost straight away Courtney Ward-Chambers with a strike from distance over the keeper to make it 2-1. Ward-Chambers coming close to making it 2-2 hitting the post in the 71st minute. Jo Wilson beating the offside trap putting the ball over the line to level the scores with 12 minutes left to play. 7 points from 3 matches Loughborough covering over 700 miles in that time move back up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table.
Their U23s side winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup earlier in the day, Watford Ladies 1st team were at home to Oxford United Women in the afternoon. The visiting side taking an early lead with Emily Allen scoring from a corner in the 16th minute. The lead doubled late in the first half from another corner with new signing Gemma Sims scoring her 1st league goal in the 43rd minute. 2-0 up at half-time Watford getting it back to 2-1 early on from a corner routine Katherine Huggins taking getting it back to put in from wide her ball in creeping in at the near post. Oxford soon restoring their 2 goal cushion Lauren Haynes with a great finish from 20 yards out to make it 3-1. A left wing cross turned into thier own net by Watford saw Oxford go 4-1 with 12 minutes left to play Danielle Scanlon on in the last 10 minutes scoring from a free-kick wide on the left to reduce the deficit to 4-2, Oxford in 4th winning the 3 points, 5 points off 2nd placed Chichester with 2 games in hand.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games played in FAWNL South East Division One on Sunday. League leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies dropping points for the 1st time since promotion to the league last weekend held to a 0-0 draw with Cambridge United WFC. Hardly a blip as they came back strong in midweek with a 4-0 away win against 3rd placed Actonians Ladies. This Sunday Crawley were at at home taking on Norfolk side Norwich City Ladies. Lauren Graves making her first appearance in goal for Crawley’s first team. The hosts taking an early lead Megan Stow firing them into the lead inside 10 minutes. Rachel Palmer’s corner floated in to the far post bringing up Crawley’s 2nd in the 22nd minute. Kemina Webber rounding the keeper on the half hour to make it 3-0, finishes from Naomi Cole and Darcey James late in the first half seeing Crawley into a 5-0 lead. Jenny Drury scoring a 6th goal for Crawley early in the 2nd half Stow going on to claim a hat-trick securing an 8-0 win to see Crawley take a 10 point lead at the top of the table.
A good week for Cambridge United WFC building on a confidence boosting point earned against Crawley at home last Sunday beat Norwich City Ladies 1-0 to push into contention in mid-table in midweek. At home again this Sunday were taking on Actonians Ladies. Cambridge taking the lead through captain Kelley Blanchflower the striker running on to beat the keeper to the ball take it wide and send the ball over the line. Cambridge hitting Actonians on the counter to score a 2nd Blanchflower left inside for Becky Shephard inside the area digging the ball out from her feet to make it 2-0. Alessandra Barreca scoring from a free-kick in the 37th minute pulling a goal back for Actonians. A break in play early in the 2nd half as a torrential hailstorm hit the ground the players retreating to the dressing room. The sun soon returning, Mollie Coupar from inside the box heading in a free-kick to put Cambridge 3-1 up. An handball inside the box seeing Cambridge awarded a penalty Shephard burying it to score her 2nd of the game. Coupar with a chipped effort scoring her 2nd of the game to seal a 5-1 win for Cambridge who move up into the top half of the table. Back in action on Tuesday evening at The Abbey Stadium with momentum going into the Cambridge Women’s Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies.
It’s that time of the season again, the first final, a trip down to Letchworth this morning, The County Ground once again hosting the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup with holders Stevenage Ladies taking on Watford Ladies U23s.
FAWNL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies looking to retain the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for a 3rd successive season. Have dominated the competition in recent seasons with this being a fifth successive final appearance, winning 3 of the previous 4 finals. Strong in their defence of the County Cup an established side now in the FAWNL. Have had their fair share of injuries, including captain Paige Logie out with a season ending ACL injury.
Watford Ladies U23s entering the competition for the first time this season. Watford themselves dominating the County Cup in its early years 5 times winners in 2005,2006,2007, 2008, 2010, reached all but one final between 2005 & 2013. Not entering the competition during their FAWSL years a Watford Ladies Development side won the competition 3 seasons ago beating Stevenage prior to their back to back successes. Watford Ladies U23s play in the FAWNL Reserves South/South East Division. Have goal scorers throughout their squad with several players getting their chance with the 1st team.
Road to the Final
A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Both were at home in the 2nd Round both progressing with ease as they racked up double figure wins. Stevenage Ladies were playing Beds & Herts Division Two side, Hitchin Belles. A overwhelming win with the hosts scoring 16 goals on their way to the quarter finals. Watford Ladies U23s were at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves side, 8 different goalscorers, with Jessica Biggerstaff scoring a hat-trick as Watford advanced with a 12-1 victory.
Home draws for both sides once more in the quarter finals, Stevenage Ladies up against Royston Town Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side County Cup finalists in the 2016/17 season. Stevenage coming out on top recording a good win over Royston winning 7-2 to reach the last 4. Watford were taking on another ERWFL Premier Division side, Colney Heath Ladies in the quarter finals a 5-0 win seeing them book their place in the semi-finals of the competition.
Stevenage Ladies were away for the 1st time in the County Cup drawn away to ERWFL Division One side, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. A repeat of last season’s final Stevenage retaining the trophy with a comfortable win then 8-0 to lift the trophy. Once again the FAWNL side were dominant as they reached their (insert) final with a 7-0 win. Watford again at home as they took on Beds & Herts Division One side Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies in the semi-finals, a 3-0 lead at half-time went on to win the game 8-0 with six different names on the scoresheet.
The County Ground in Letchworth the venue for today’s final home of Hertfordshire FA, the stadium recently undergoing some redevelopment including a new 3G playing surface replacing the grass pitch, barriers and surround upgraded. A redeveloped clubhouse area too, a new cafe replacing the old bar with function room beyond. Hot and cold drinks available. An early kick-off, breakfast too a burger van selling hot food in it’s usual berth. Storm Hannah the latest to blow through the UK bringing over night wind and rain. A 3G surface meaning a call off unlikely cool early on and overcast dark clouds threatening the rain would hold off the sun breaking through.
The new playing surface at The County Ground looking pristine
Watford Ladies U23s starting XI – Amy Martin, Ayifa Johnson, Holly Holt, Danielle Maloney, Sydney Hinchcliffe, Katie Akerman, Rebecca McShane (C), Andie Dickens, Linda Afuakwah, Eshe Johnson & Anaisa Harvey. Subs – Jennifer Hughes, Jessica Biggerstaff, Hannah Coote, Holly Greenwood & Alketa Rragami.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Stevenage to get the final underway kicking off first half wearing white shirts with light red vertical stripes, red shirts and socks with Watford lined up opposite wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Watford press early Andie Dickens on the left win tackling winning possession getting in behind to cross Charlotte Ryan clearing the ball inside her area for Stevenage.
Nicole Emmings receiving the ball in attack for Stevenage turns to her left sending the ball on down the line with Ellie Searle looking to break in behind, Afiya Johnson getting back well to make the tackle. Stevenage are awarded an early free-kick 35 yards out central Shona Chitate to take the ball put into the area for runners to attack, Watford goalkeeper Amy Martin taking it on the bounce. Watford press the ball high up the pitch, Stevenage rushed into their passes Poppy Bennett’s forwards ball up to Emmings, Sydney Hinchcliffe doing well up against her for Watford preventing the attacker getting in on goal.
Dickens getting forwards left has support from Eshe Johnson in attack getting the return ball as she breaks into the box her early shot races wide past the far post. A corner for Watford right side the ball delivered into the near post defended the clearance falling to Watford’s Anaisa Harvey outside the area strikes the ball back in towards goal is safely held by Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis
Stevenage defender, Poppy Bennett getting to the ball ahead of Watford’s Linda Afuakwah
A bright start from Watford, lively early on closing Stevenage down quick to mount attacks, Emmings and captain Amy Makewell looking to move around find space up top for Stevenage to play them in. Linda Afuakwah with the ball at her feet for Watford on the right drives down the line cutting inside get’s past one defender the ball coming to Eshe Johnson near post she blasts wide from six yards out. A quick turn around from Stevenage the ball from Amy Josland through the middle helped on to Emmings peeling away into a gap on the left runs on into the area the shot on Emmings instead puts it in towards the penalty spot, her cross intercepted as Watford get back the ball sent clear.
Emmings is through clear in behind moment later central 30 yards out gives chase to the ball, Martin racing out of her area gets there first however to kick the ball away before the striker can capitalise. Watford get on down the left the cross in headed behind for a corner kick, the delivery near post attacked ends up behind for a 2nd corner, this one again from the left higher Vandersluis getting up to glove the ball on wide and behind for a 3rd corner on the right this time.
GOAL! Watford open the scoring from the corner put in towards the near post area 8 yards out the ball is turned back in towards goal, Stevenage doing well initially to clear the ball off the line the clearance out to the left falling straight to Watford’s Hinchcliffe the centre back smashing a low shot back across goal into the back of the net 0-1.
Sydney Hinchcliffe with the opening goal for Watford Ladies U23s
Amy Makewell carries the ball on down the right, is stopped by Watford’s Holly Holt. Ashleigh Deacon combines with Chitate as Stevenage try to play Makewell in behind, play brought back by referee Lyn McGregor after there was no advantage after Chitate was fouled. Ryan over the free kick inside the Watford half as players go forwards, the delivery high into the area punched down by martin falls straight to Dominique Godbeer positioned just inside the area catches it on the volley her attempt over the bar.
Stevenage Ladies, Dominique Godbeer
A good response from Stevenage having fallen behind Josland and Chitate enjoying a competitive battle with Watford captain Rebecca McShane and Katie Akerman. Challenges a plenty. Afuakwah on the ball right for Watford lays it on through the middle for Harvey, the striker unable to gather the ball races through into the area Dickens lively after it, Hayley Wood-Thompson back with her the Stevenage full back putting Dickens under pressure as she blasts her shot wide.
Afuakwah is fouled by Searle outside the area 20 out right of the D, Dickens over it with an early shot over the wall striking the base of the near post… but she had gone to soon wait for the whistle, retaken Dickens puts it over this time. Makewell taking the ball on down the right a powerful run turns inside getting into the box, is eventually stopped as 3 Watford defenders converge to close her down six yards out. Watford quick to counter Afuakwah a ready outlet on their right down the line her cross in cleared by Godbeer. Stevenage return the counter attack with interest putting Searle in on the left closing in on the area her cross inside only finding the Watford defence. Makewell drags a shot wide from the top of the area, the flag raised against her however.
Linda Afuakwah on the attack for Watford
Makewell linking with Deacon for Stevenage as Emmings breaks down the right wins a corner. The delivery well played drops into the six yard box Deacon with her back to goal closely marked by Martin can’t get around her to shoot the ball scrambled away to the right Makewell drives a shot back in the effort narrowly wide. Play turned around quickly fro both sides the game played at a good tempo, Hinchcliffe with some great defending on Makewell as she is played through on goal centrally.
Stevenage Ladies, Ashleigh Deacon
Appeals for handball waved away as Stevenage press Watford outside their area, Hinchcliffe’s arm raised as Makewell attempts to flick it on. A free kick for Stevenage on halfway knocked on by Josland puts Deacon in behind right into the box, Martin out to close her down saves well at her feet, the ball knocked away Martin grounded pouncing to claim the loose ball. 40 minutes played.
Watford Ladies U23s goalkeeper, Amy Martin
GOAL! Watford have dealt with a spell of pressure from Stevenage well breaking forwards double their lead just before half-time the ball knocked on is into Dickens on the left just outside the area hits the ball well arrowing in towards goal Vandersluis dives to her left full stretch but can’t keep it out as the ball squeezes inside the post 0-2.
Andie Dickens scorer of Watford’s 2nd goal
Plenty of rubber in the new pitch flying up as sliding tackles come in, lively Stevenage getting frustrated with some decisions. Afiya Johnson forwards to support Eshe and Afuakwah on the right the trio win a corner, played long to the top of the box a shot driven in Vandersluis diving the ball behind for another set piece this time Stevenage defend break on the counter, Josland on for Emmings, Danielle Maloney defends for Watford.
Stevenage with a free-kick at the end of the first half the ball defended in the box by Watford’s Afuakwah she brings it away the ball played on to Eshe Johnson she plays it through for Harvey who is tackled by Godbeer, McShane bursting forwards regaining possession picks out Afuakwah into space on the right full of pace takes the ball on into the box blasting a rising shot into the side netting.
A 2-0 lead for Watford at half-time a bright start pressing the ball, forcing their opponents into rushed passes took the early lead, defended well as Stevenage sought to find gaps in behind created opportunities to find an equalising goal the temp high throughout Watford dealing with the pressure ready to go on the attack hit a 2nd late in the first half to give themselves a good platform to build on 2nd half. Stevenage will want to come out of the blocks strong at the start of the 2nd period if they want to get back into the game.
It’s Watford to get the 2nd half underway, Stevenage in to get on the ball, Chitate with Bennett the ball launched forwards with Emmings running clear in behind left channel Martin coming out to close the angle saving well getting her gloves onto the ball. Emmings appeals for a penalty as she ends up on the ground inside the box trying to see the ball into her body from a Searle throw in on the right, the appeals waved away. Josland gets across to tackle Afuakwah as Eshe Johnson aims to send her away on the right.
Stevenage Ladies, Ellie Searle
Bennett is down with a knock for Stevenage, an early change in the 2nd half as she comes off, on in her place Cara Breckenridge. Searle making ground on the left wing for Stevenage a cross in low across the face of goal from deep Emmings diving to head the ball just misses it at the near post the ball racing on. Akerman bringing the ball on for Watford through the middle plays it forwards with Eshe Johnson pulling away right shoots early from outside the area, Vandersluis claims it.
Hannah Vandersluis down to save for Stevenage Ladies
A good start to the 2nd half for Stevenage they press forwards, Holt and Maloney both denying final balls for Watford. A throw won on the left played into Josland the Stevenage midfielder shooting from 20 yards out left her strike held into Martins midriff. Watford counter the ball central played out to Dickens left has Holt breaking ahead of her on the overlap the fullback turning inside central closing in on the D, thinks about shooting instead attempts to thread it through for Harvey the Stevenage defence shutting the door the clearance intercepted by Akerman 30 yards out given time to line up a shot her strike doesn’t trouble Vandersluis.
Katie Akerman bringing the ball away for Watford
Emmings closing down Watford at the back wins the ball outside the box a snap shot right of the D races wide. play brought back after no advantage from a foul Watford have a free-kick 25 yards out to the left of goal, Maloney on it goes for goal the attempt landing wide of the near post. An hour on the clock Stevenage make a 2nd change with Erin Pope coming on for Josland. Afuakwah central runs in behind the Stevenage defence 25 yards out as Vandersluis comes to narrow the angle the Watford attacker shoots her effort past the keeper runs wide of the post.
GOAL! A corner won on the left as Akerman winning the tackle in midfield plays it out to Dickens on the left support from Holt who gets the corner. The delivery on the spot into the middle of the six yard box 3 Watford players attack it Hinchcliffe, Eshe Johnson and between them Harvey who gets up highest to head the ball down and in to make it 0-3.
Stevenage make another change Chitate coming off on comes Amy Runicman to join the attack. A minute later Watford make a change and it’s the goalscorer coming off Harvey replaced by Jennifer Hughes. A free-kick wide right for Stevenage, Makewell plays in towards the far post Martin up to glove the ball away for a corner kick, delayed as the trainer comes on for an injury. Watford defending the set piece break Afuakwah through the centre now on for Hughes peeling into space on the left her cross into the box cut out, Eshe Johnson bundled over as she tries to collect just outside the D. Akerman with the free-kick her shot no trouble for Vandersluis.
Watford Ladies U23s, Danielle Maloney
Emmings after a forwards pass on her right checks inside to get into the area, Hinchcliffe challenging the ball put behind for a corner. In from the right to the near post area Runicman gets over the ball shooting held safely as Martin gets across. Stevenage getting frustrated Watford working hard to keep up the tempo challenge for everything, decisions not going Stevenage’s way. Afuakwah run of running with the ball has Hughes to her right giving her the ball she shoots 20 yards out Vandersluis going to ground pushing the ball behind at the near post. Makewell and Emmings link up get Deacon in on the left her shot outside the box charged down.
GOAL! Counter attacking play from Watford leads to a 4th goal Stevenage pushing for a goal are hit on the break the ball put n quickly for Eshe Johnson through the centre clear on goal closing in on the area right of the D, composed as Vandersluis moves towards her, the striker placing the ball wide of the keeper and into the bottom corner with less than 20 minutes to play 0-4.
Eshe Johnson puts Watford into a 4 goal lead
Stevenage very nearly pull a goal back from the restart as Makewell is played in on the right down the wing crosses from deep a dangerous ball across the face of goal Emmings meets the ball, virtually on top of Martin the keeper going to ground somehow managing to make the save smothering both ball and player, Emmings trying to get over the keeper to reach the loose ball, Martin snatches it away. Emmings down injured after the coming together, a spell of on the pitch treatment before needing to come off, on comes Melody Jones
Makewell tries to get Pope in on goal as she breaks through the middle, she sees Searle getting clear on the left tries to play the pass through, McShane backtracking doing well to intercept get the ball back to her keeper. Watford with a change as Dickens comes off Hannah Coote going over to her position on the left. Coote with an early chance as she is played in with a crossfield pass, lets fly from 25 yards out, Vandersluis with a great save diving to her right to push the ball wide for a corner.
Watford’s, Hannah Coote
Watford’s turn to appeal for a penalty as the ball comes into the area, play goes on cleared out of the box collected by Hughes on the right sends a cross back in to the far post Maloney up to meet it sends her header wide. Watford think they’ve scored a 5th as the ball is put over the top Vandersluis saving the first strike Afuakwah burying the rebound. The celebrations cut short however assistant Gemma Smith with her flag up and early too before Vandersluis blocked the first attempt no goal.
Afuakwah comes off with Watford’s top scorer Jessica Biggerstaff coming on. Biggerstaff getting in on the action straight away as she runs on through to send a shot into the side netting. Afiya Johnson linking with Hughes on the right the ball taken to the byline cut back centrally Eshe Johnson with the shot Vandersluis with a superb save. Tempers getting a little frayed Stevenage have been frustrated by their opponents Searle collecting a yellow card.
A double change late in proceedings for Watford, Eshe Johnson and McShane off, on come Alketa Rragami and Holly Greenwood. Watford finish strong Biggerstaff with space in the box sees her shot deflected onto the keeper to spin away for a corner. A push in the back spotted as Watford play it in. Stevenage with a corner in stoppage time on the left the ball in Searle up to meet it near side her header wide across the face of goal. The final whistle blows and Watford Ladies U23s bundle atop one another in celebration as they win the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.
Full time Stevenage Ladies 0-4 Watford Ladies U23s
A fantastic result for Watford’s U23s played well throughout a bright start pressing well, restricting the time their opponents had on the ball getting in front early on Stevenage responding well fighting back didn’t get the decisions growing frustrated as opportunities wen by Watford doubling their lead before half-time. Stevenage you felt needed the next goal as it was Watford were the side to find the back of the net to go 3-0 up. Stevenage could not find a reply to pressure the scoreline Watford strong as they took a 4 goal lead never looking back.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match award. A good performance all round from Watford Ladies U23s putting some good attacking moves together, defending well, Amy Martin with some very confident and brave goalkeeping. Have chosen Linda Afuakwah was a threat throughout on the right then through the middle making some great runs taking players on and creating chances, always an outlet making herself available whenever Watford won the ball.
Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Winners, Watford Ladies U23s
Congratulations to Watford Ladies U23s on winning the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.
An early kick-off, managed to avoid the torrential down pour that came after the game. A match report finished before 10pm is a rarity too but lots to do, the finals coming thick and fast now the next on Tuesday. An entertaining match a good number coming to watch, my thanks to Hertfordshire FA for all their help today, much appreciated.
A late call this Wednesday evening for a spot of midweek football action under the lights, a trip down to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Norwich City Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Arriving 20 minutes before kick-off the warm ups well underway, the team line-ups readily available, soon set for kick-off. The two sides currently sitting 7th and 8th in the South East Division one respectfully, Cambridge United WFC moving a point clear of Norwich City Ladies as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season holding them to a goalless draw at home at the weekend. Blustery conditions after heavy rain overnight, Norwich saw there game away to Stevenage Ladies called off on Sunday due to a water logged pitch.
A win for either tonight pushing them right onto the tails of the sides battling for a top half finish. Cambridge with a confidence boosting performance to get a point against Crawley looking to continue that form as they prepare of next weeks Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies being played at the Abbey Stadium on Tuesday evening. Will also want to put in a better performance against Norwich having been beaten by them 3-0 with a few regulars unavailable in the reverse fixture back at the start of October.
Norwich have saved some off their best performances for thier games under the lights, 3 of their 5 wins so far this season coming in midweek fixtures, all against their East Anglian rivals, once against Cambridge with the double over Ipswich Town Women. Building well this season after a couple of seasons battling at the wrong end of the table, should be safe from getting dragged into the bottom two this season, like Cambridge well placed with a positive result having the same effect. Missing a few experienced players tonight especially at the back however have given several young players opportunities this season and most have performed well when called upon.
A calm evening the air still after Storm Gareth had blown through earlier. Cool, glad the blustery conditions had passed it wasn’t fun on Sunday. The pitch set on a slope at Mildenhall Town from one goal to the the other, a good size offering plenty of width. The bar clubhouse open.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Vicky Neal, Amber Cantwell, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Amy Howlett (C) & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Fran Gough, Kelley Blanchflower & Holly Turbill.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Keunna Dill, Lilly Bueggeln, Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake (C), Eliza McDonald, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling, Reeanna Cook & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Kirstie Smith, Rosie George, Louise Kennedy & Elli-Ray Quinn-Nicholls.
Norwich choose to attack up the slope first half with Cambridge taking the kick off wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Norwich in their away colours green shirts and socks with yellow shorts. The ball moved left as Cambridge attack Jade Bell down the wing winning a throw in the ball played on into the top of the box headed clear by Norwich’s Tigi Robson. Cambridge press Norwich for possession early on closing them down Bell left the cross into the area Mollie Coupar receiving the ball near post back to goal a turn and hit blocked at close range the rebound blasted over at the far post.
Aimee Durrant taking the ball on gets in behind on the right wing for Norwich her cross off the mark screwed wide behind the Cambridge goal. Norwich captain Jodie Drake regaining possession right puts in on for Durrant she squares it inside for Eliza McDonald, Coupar coming back to quickly close the midfielder down to win it back for Cambridge the ball played out wide to Bell running on down the left cuts infield, Alice Parker wit Robson closing her down before she can get into the area.
GOAL! Cambridge take the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Amber Cantwell on the ball central passing to Bells left, Becky Shephard racing ahead of her down the line fed the ball drives down to the byline cutting inside fires in a pacy cross across the six yard box with Cambridge’s Amy Howlett wearing the captains armband this evening timing her run perfectly to meet the ball and send it low back across the goal into the bottom corner 1-0.
A good start to the game from Cambridge pressing Norwich for the ball, closing down and moving forwards with purpose and pace in attack. Keumma Dill with the defending for Norwich at the far post as Cambridge send in another cross from the left. Durrant is clipped as she looks to get in behind on the right a free-kick awarded top of the area Durrant over it lifts a ball up into the area, Drake making the run central can’t reach it, over her Jemma Moore heads clear for Cambridge.
A mix-up at the back almost sees Howlett break clear in behind after the ball into the area, Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong alert quickly out to gather the ball before the attacker can get a telling touch. Another free-kick for Norwich left of the D 30 yards out Durrant with it again, goes for goal her strike half a yard over the bar. Good work from Norwich’s Reeanna Cook in midfield the ball put forwards for Chelsea Garrett leading the attack does well to force a throw in in the corner. Garrett receiving the ball from the throw-in on the byline turns well inside the box to send a cross in the ball just behind Natasha Snelling at the far post.
The 50/50 battles going Cambridge’s way, Vicky Neal breaking up a Norwich attack as they try to build through the middle. Kayleigh Anne Burt smashing a clearance into Neal it rebounds favourably for Bell to break on the left, Parker tackling to stop the cross. Cook with McDonald on through the middle Durrant making a run on the right, Carrie Bennett intercepting the ball for Cambridge.
Breaking up a Cambridge attack Norwich launch a rapid counter attack the ball with Durrant on the right her diagonal ball up towards Garrett central 30 yards out she gets up well to header in down into the path of the advancing Drake, she spots Cook making the run in behind right side the pass put into her inside the area the angle tight she shes it over her shoulder hits it on the volley the strike well over.
Howlett pressing the ball up front forces an error from the Norwich defence runs through to get hold of the ball inside the area plays it back out to Coupar on her right, holding it up Coupar gets it back to Howlett as she moves out to the right the ball into her run she slips as she pulls the trigger, Armstrong making the blocking save as she comes to narrow the angle. Cambridge get on down their left win a corner kick the delivery high into the angle headed out drops to Bell 20 yards out smashes it back in her shot over the bar.
Snelling up on the left receives the ball from Dill, looks to drive on tackled by Emma Jenkins the loose ball gathered by Garrett, Snelling gets inside the ball returned closing in on the area, her shot charged down. McDonald bringing the ball on for Norwich rides Howlett’s challenge, shooting from all of 30 yards out, the attempt not troubling Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith. Cambridge’s pressing game frustrating Norwich as they struggle to get the ball into advanced positions, Neal winning her fair share of tackles the ball inside to Cantwell, forwards for Coupar, Lilly Bueggeln close preventing the striker turning in behind.
Bell away on the left late in the first half a quick counter Norwich stretched cuts the cross into the box from the byline the shot behind, Shephard runs on to Cantwell shoots before Armstrong can get across to her the ball past the keeper is cleared off the line by her defence tracking back. Cambridge finishing the first half well a corner on the right a good delivery in Armstrong up inside her crowded six yard box gets the faintest of touches to the ball to see it run on out the far side for another corner, this again pushed behind by Armstrong coming near post, the keeper laying claim to the 3rd attempt as the whistle blows.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
Cambridge with the early goal holding a 1-0 advantage at the break, started well, closing Norwich down for the ball, quick to attack have frustrated their opponents who have struggled to get anything going in attack. Some last gasp defending preventing Norwich from falling further behind. One goal in it Norwich are far from out of it as the teams emerge for the 2nd half.
No changes for either side at the break Norwich to get the 2nd half underway, The ball out on the right, Durrant pushing on tackled by Bennett. Cook on the ball central looks to thread a pass on for Garrett in attack, Burt defending well up against her. Both sides looking to be positive at the start of the 2nd half, Norwich trying to spread the play. Parker does well winning the challenge inside her box on Howlett as she is played in by Shephard.
A throw high on the right for Cambridge Jemma Moore up from the back to take has a long throw the ball into the area put back to her to cross in Norwich heading the threat clear. Dill showing good pace to get back on Shephard as the Cambridge attacker looks to get away with the ball on the right. Cambridge continue to close down prevent Norwich breaking from inside their own half, Coupar the Neal with the tackles.
Close again from Coupar as she gets up well at the far post to head a cross from the left back in across the face of goal looks destined to lad in the back of the net, Robson doing brilliantly to hook the ball clear off the goal line. Bell linking up with Shephard in attack the latter seeing her shot from outside the area blocked. Neal receives a yellow card aggrieved as she is adjudged to have fouled Armstrong as she and the keeper come together at the top of the area as they both race to win a 50/50 ball.
Snelling getting in behind on the left as Burt can’t get the ball down to clear, the attacker taking it on towards the area puts the cross in, Smith down to claim the ball. Cambridge counter the ball up field quickly Shephard onto a defensive mix-up in behind, closing in on Armstrong the keeper going to ground getting something on the ball stopping it, Shephard looking to retrieve, Armstrong stretching out to get a glove on the ball pull it into her body.
Cambridge make the first change of the game Bennett having picked up a knock coming off, Kelley Blanchflower coming on the switch seeing Bell drop to left back. Cook cutting inside from the left shoots from 25 yards out her effort straight at Smith. Cambridge starting to see more of the ball, Blanchflower working across the defence to receive the ball. Dill doing well up against Howlett on the penalty spot as a cross is delivered into the box from the left.
Norwich’s frustrations continue nothing seems to be coming off in the final 3rd. Coupar driving to the byline from the left into the area gets a cross in, Armstrong has it covered claiming at her near post. Neal stops Norwich getting out as they win the ball from a throw put into the area from the right the midfielder tackling playing the ball on for Coupar her touch taking it inside the box from the left blasts a shot goalwards Armstrong saving well as she comes to block.
Parker into the book for foul a free-kick wide left for Cambridge the ball up towards the area headed away for a throw, Moore to take, once again gets it returned to put the cross in Armstrong claiming taking it off the head of the advancing attacker. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Norwich with a 2nd change Durrant coming off, Snelling switching to the right on comes Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge press the attack Blanchflower on for Coupar checks her run the ball taken from her won back by Jenkins getting forwards puts it on for Shephard looking to get away right side coming into the box, Drake sliding in to make the challenge blocks her shot with her leg.
Coupar is down hurt play eventually stopped after treatment can’t continue on in her place comes Holly Turbill. Starting to get a little nervy out their as much as Cambridge need a 2nd goal they also want a clean sheet, continue to work hard to close the ball down all over the pitch. Howlett fouled by Dill a free-kick for Cambridge right outside the area the delivery in just out of range of Blanchflower jumping central falls unexpectedly to Neal at the far post can’t get it down under control for a shot before the Norwich defence close her down.
A second change for Norwich with Rosie George coming on to replace Snelling. Cook bringing the ball on drake ahead of her plays the diagonal ball out t Stanley left, Jenkins in to challenge with the game into stoppage time. Kirstie Smith coming on for Norwich, Robson fouled trying to get forwards 25 yards out, Cambridge back inside their box to defend, a little scrappy the home side manage to get the ball clear. The ball taken into the corner by Shephard late on, the clock ran down, the final whistle blows Cambridge winning the 3 points.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
A good result for Cambridge, Howlett’s early goal the difference between the sides, Cambridge creating chances to extend the lead Norwich with two goal line clearances to keep them going further ahead. A frustrating evening for Norwich never really got going in attack largely due to Cambridge’s closing down and pressing. All over the pitch kept up the pressure quick to launch attacks the hard work paying off. Nervy towards the end trailing 1-0 Norwich were never out of the game.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, good work from the whole Cambridge team to close down the ball, force errors and break up attacks before they could get going. Jade Bell setting the tone, Amy Howlett making some good runs the award though goes to Vicky Neal little got past her winning the ball in advanced positions keeping the pressure on for Cambridge in the final third.
A late call, so didn’t get a chance to say hello to everyone having to dash at the end too. Good to see both sides, an enjoyable game under the lights, the team details readily available with my notepad I’m all set. The first final of the season upon us this weekend, and that signals the beginning of a usually frantic end to the season, where has the time gone?
It remains an ever changing picture at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, St Albans Ladies with a big win at home last Sunday the latest side to occupy top spot in the league. This Sunday they were hosting previous leaders Northwood Ladies who ha held fellow title hopefuls Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies to two successive 2-2 draws home and away. The lead changing once again with Northwood coming out on top goals from Danielle Tyler and Megan Warner securing a 2-0 win taking them a point clear of the chasing pack 3 sides all on 23 points.
St Albans Ladies 2nd, Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires are 3rd joining them on 23 points in 4th spot go Houghton Athletic Ladies. An away trip to Garston Ladies 2nd XI this Sunday goals from Shakeela Hussain, top scorers Emily Wilson and a goal for Holly Thomson in her 1st game for Houghton Athletic seeing the visitors win the game 3-1 to move above Hemel Hempstead. Holly Jury with the goal for Garston. Hemel Hempstead two points back from the top 4 crucially have 2 to 3 games in hand on them all.
Also in Division One this Sunday it was a home win for Sharnbrook WFC, earning the 3 points with a narrow victory over Sherrardswood Ladies, Francesca Novelli with a 22nd minute goal for the visitors, Sharnbrook scoring twice to clinch the win 2-1.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Hitchin Town Ladies won away from home in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday to close the gap to leaders Hitchin Belles back to 3 points with a game in hand. Hitchin Town were taking on Watton Ladies at the weekend. Got off to a fantastic start with Louise Gash through on goal to score inside 2 minutes, 4 minutes later the visitors were 2-0 up Mandy Cain-Murnane trying her luck from distance to score. Both sides battling the windy conditions Watton had a goal disallowed for offside midway through the first half. 2-0 it remained heading into the last 5 minutes Sherrie Evans with her first goal for Hitchin Town scoring in her 3rd appearance to make it 3-0 on 85 minutes, 2 minutes later it was 4-0 with Lauren Wyatt also into her 3rd appearance scoring her first for the club to see Hitchin Town win the game 4-0.
A ninth league win of the season sees Letchworth Garden City Eagles in 4th keep the pressure on the leading pack a point now behind 3rd place Royston Town Ladies Development with 2 games in hand. Letchworth were away to Evergreen Eagles this Sunday. Kate Tempest scoring a hat-trick for the visitors has 7 for the season. Top scorer Tayla Murray also amongst the goals netting a brace to move onto 12 for the campaign, with Emily Jamieson also getting her 7th goal of the season in a 6-2 win for Letchworth.
5th placed Evergreen Ladies were hosting bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures this Sunday in Division Two a good first half to the game saw Evergreen into a 5-0 lead with a goals for Rebecca Freeman and Natalie Maher along with her first goals of the season for Amira Nekikeche celebrating a hat-trick. April Spang pulling a goal back for Welwyn early in the 2nd half it was as good as it got with Maher scoring a 2nd of Evergreen to see them run out 6-1 winners.
A single goal enough to secure all 3 points in the other game to report on in Division Two, going to Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies at home taking on Bedford Ladies Development on Sunday.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. 5th placed Biggleswade United Ladies consolidating their position with a good result at home to Kempston Rovers Ladies. Sarah King doubling her goals tally for the season as she scored 5 goals on Sunday for Biggleswade to move into double figures. Tashai Simms also finding the back of the net for a goal along with top scorers Leeanne Davison chalking up her 17th of the campaign in a 7-2 win. Meghan Dimmock and Beth Prior scoring for Kempston Rovers.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies climb above Kempston Rovers as a result of that defeat coupled with victory at home on Sunday in the league over Buntingford Town Ladies. Stotfold winning the game 2-0.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
One outstanding quarter final tie remaining in The Chris Renshaw Cup, postponed last time out Division Three leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development were away to Garston Ladies 1st team struggling for results in Division One. Garston getting themselves into an early lead 1-0 up after 6 minutes, Dunstable coming back late in the first half to score two quickfire goals to lead 2-1 at the interval, Holly Wilks and top scorer Bianca Vassell with the goals. Garston back on level term 7 minutes into the first half scored a 3rd on the hour to lead 3-2, that would prove to be the winning goal, Garston’s 1st team joining their 2nd XI in the last 4 of the competition, Jane Hales, Emma Trill and Lucy Zecchin the players getting the goals.
Both Garston sides with a home draw in the semi-finals to be played on the 24th March, Garston 1st team up against another Division Three high flyer Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses whilst the 2nd XI are up against Division Two title chasers, Hitchin Town Ladies.
Leigh Ramblers Ladies are enjoying a strong first season in the Essex Women’s Premier Division fighting with Frontiers Ladies are the title itself knocked them out of the League Cup in the last round to set up a quarter final tie away to Collier Row Tigers, the 5th placed side a handful for anyone themselves on the day. Both sides battling the windy conditions too it was an action packed encounter that went all the way to extra-time. Leigh Ramblers coming close in the 90 minutes were leading 3-2 before Collier Row Tigers scored their 3rd in stoppage time to force extra-time the hosts then going on to take the lead before Leigh Ramblers came back to score twice and win through to the last four of the League Cup with a 5-4 win.
Collier Row Tigers without top scorer Laura Bunton their goals coming from Fran Pridie, Daisy Cook, Helen Moreira and Emily Dempsey. Kate newton leading the goal scoring charts for Leigh Ramblers netting a hat-trick in the quarter final has 30 goals for the season.Rebecca Dalgarno also scoring a goal her 14th of the campaign with Amber Denton also finding the back of the net. Leigh Ramblers have a home draw in the semi-finals against fellow Premier Division side, whilst Runwell Sports Ladies from Division One are the home side in the other semi-final to be contested between Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves and Harlow Town Ladies Development this coming Sunday.
Essex Women’s Division One
With the two scheduled Premier Division games falling foul to the weather this Sunday the league action in Essex comes from Division One, leaders Billericay Town Ladies Reserves seeing their game called off it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies to join them on 45 points at the top of the table if they could pick up the win at home to bottom side Island Ladies. The visitors with just 10 available, Dagenham & Redbridge claimed the win with a 7-1 win Grace Tebb-Reading scoring a brace takes her tally to 17 for the season, 15 now for Jodie Barden as well as she netted twice for Dagenham & Redbridge. A goal each too for Evie Doyle-Love and Morgan Duffield who both have 6 along with an own goal. Jessica Stafford on the scoresheet for Island.
The top two well clear of the chasing pack the battle for third spot is just as close with 5 points now separating 3rd to 6th. Hutton Ladies Reserves in 3rd at home to 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Rayleigh Town with plenty of goal scorers in their squad, Hutton were able to call upon Vicky kinsman top scorer for the 1st team with their game falling foul to the wet weather a crucial league game it was a high scoring match with the sides sharing 10 goals. Hutton emerging with the 3 points winning the game 6-4. Kinsman scoring 5 of those goals for Hutton is having a prolific season in front of goal. Cassandra Piejko finding the back of the net also for Hutton. So too Isabelle Wallings for Rayleigh Tow on target for her 42nd goal of the season. Holly Gash also on target for a goal has 19 now. Amy Cox-Smith getting a goal to with Jameela Walker scoring her first of the season. The win sees Hutton open up a 4 point gap on Rayleigh who remain in a strong position with 3 games in hand on their rivals.
That defeat for Rayleigh Town was good news for Runwell Sports Ladies the League Cup semi finalists up to 4th in the table with a comfortable home win over Belhus Ladies on Sunday in Division One. Rachael Selfe and Ellouise Falconer both scoring a brace in the game for the hosts with Katie Whiter, Victoria Martin and top scorer Aaryanna Simonelli all getting a goal each in a 7-0 win.
