Four games played on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Needham Market Women remain top ahead of East Bergholt United Ladies only separated by goal difference. East Bergholt with that superiority up until the withdrawal of Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves the goals earned against them chalked off, it’s Needham Market’s turn to push their own goal difference up as they recorded a huge win away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this weekend.
Needham Market going from strength to strength in their debut season the squad full of goals. 7-0 up at half-time there was no let up in the 2nd half with a further 12 goals scored. 19-0 Abbie Wilkinson top scoring for Needham Market in the game with 4 goals. Francesca Rainbird is Needham Market’s top goalscorer a hat-trick on Sunday moving her to 26 for the season. Also scoring a hat-trick and her first goals for Needham market in only her 2nd game was Emily Steward. Four players netting a brace with Josie Harward, Jemma Wessels, Nicola Henderson and Eboni-May Shephard with her first goals too for Needham market celebrating a brace. Another player getting her first goal for Needham market on Sunday was Amber Leeks in only her 3rd appearance.
East Bergholt United Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers, another high scoring game with the sides sharing 9 goals! Top scorers Jo Harvey with a brace and Tiffany Reeves scoring for Alresford have 27 goals between them now. East Bergholt have plenty of goals in their squad too however and hit Alresford for six up the other end to collect the 3 points. Annie Northwood scoring one of those goals has 26 goals recorded for the season now. Elena Nitsche bagging herself a brace there were goals too for Stacey Teager and Charlotte McGrath with Isla Romer-Lee scoring for the 1st time this season in East Bergholt’s 6-3 win. Still have a game in hand on Needham Market.
Brantham Athletic Ladies took advantage of Alresford losing and 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies game being postponed to win big at home to climb back up to 3rd place in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday. At home were taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Brantham are another side with a strong attack and Brightlingsea felt the full force as the hosts claimed all 3 points with a 14-1 win to move back up the table.
Brettvale Ladies are having a fantastic start to 2019 strengthening the squad have now won 4 of their 6 league games played so far with just one defeat. A 3rd successive league win coming at home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. Brettvale holding a 2-1 lead at half-time that score was repeated 2nd half to see the hosts run out 4-2 winners. Tarnya McKew joining the squad has added a real goal threat playing at a higher level before hit a hat-trick for Brettvale on Sunday to move onto 14 goals from just 6 appearances. Georgia Lindon with the other goal for Brettvale. Abigail Eley netting both goals for Coplestonians.
Cambridge City Ladies Development return to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership with victory away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Top of goal difference over ICA Sports Ladies, Cambridge City have 3 games in hand on their rivals. Megan Tonks getting on the scoresheet once again for Cambridge City scoring her 28th goal of the season, A goal too for Yasmin Crow along with one for Philippa Witherspoon returning to play for the 1st time this season. Cambridge City winning the game 3-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
Semi-final weekend for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition introduced last season for the clubs competing in the Championship North & South. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East ventured this weekend to watch league rivals Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies go head to head in the last 4 of the competition. Ketton leading the way with a 100% record at the top of the Championship North, Wisbech Town just 3 points behind having lost their first league meeting with two to come. Meeting in the Division One Cup this Sunday the game switched to 3G due to the weather the rain almost gone replace by the blustery winds that affected so many games across the country.
Not ideal weather for a semi-final match, Wisbech adapting to the conditions better taking an early lead Amy Newell firing home from outside the box to make it 1-0. Ketton though they had equalised when a long range free-kick from defender Beth Goodman went in over the keeper but the effort was ruled out with players running offside one close to the keeper. A narrow lead for Wisbech at half-time the weather giving us a bit of everything. The hosts doubling their advantage early in the 2nd half with top scorers Sophie Swinden running clear on the right to send the ball past the keeper.
Chloe Stanborough with the ball at her feet for Wisbech Town Ladies
Claire Lawrenson coming close for Ketton moments later beating the keeper only for defender Kaylie Swinden to get back head her shot wide for a corner. Ketton frustrated couldn’t get anything happening in the final 3rd, the 90 minutes almost up Wisbech were finishing strong pressing for a 3rd goal it came as Chloe Stanborough caught the ball perfectly outside the box to volley the ball home under the diving keeper. 3-0 up into stoppage time Ketton’s goalkeeper Georgia Ireland hurt diving for the ball unable to continue Amy Gray taking up the gloves Wisbech pressed the attack Swinden getting a 2nd goal then going on to complete her hat-trick with Stanborough’s cross/shot finding the top corner in the dying seconds to see Wisbech run out 6-0 winners to reach the final of the Division One Cup.
Their opponents will be St Ives Town Ladies Development after they won their semi-final clash at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Also switched to 3G due to the awful weather. St Ives like Wisbech 2nd in the South table looking to chase down Haverhill Rovers Ladies for the title itself. Jade carpenter scoring a brace in the game for St Ives with Fran Worrall also celebrating a goal in a 3-1 victory.
The date for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Final announced, will be on Friday 12th April with a 7:30pm kick-off at Ely City FC.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday, Cardea Ladies consolidating 3rd position in the table with a home win against 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies. The hosts taking a 10th minute lead through captain Laura Rudd added a 2nd in the 21st minute to take her goals tally to 17 for the season. Naomi Hall scoring a 3rd 4 minutes later to see Cardea holding a 3 goal lead at half-time. Wisbech St Mary threatened a comeback with 2 goals early in the 2nd half Eilish Brown on target to score in the 48th minute, Josie Turner making it 3-2 7 minutes later. Cardea found the back of the net for a 4th goal past the hour to restore a 2 goal cushion, Phoebe Browness getting the goal. Cardea winning the match 4-2.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Haverhill Rovers Ladies extended their lead at the top Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South to 7 points with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC on Sunday. The visitors enjoying a good season themselves scoring twice against the league leaders, Haverhill in their debut season since returning to women’s football building a strong squad, Joeli Kirby’s goals helping the side as they aim for title success scored two more on Sunday taking her tally for the season to 35. Kayleigh Nolan amongst the goals too scoring at the weekend has 13 now for the campaign with a goal on her debut for Haverhill for Georgina Sparkes in a 4-2 win.
At the other end of a contrasting Championship South table Park Ladies were at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday the sides both with just 3 points each to date along with Burwell Tigers Ladies. Laura Todd, Louisa Harwood and Emily Ingle all getting on the scoresheet for Isleham it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Park scored 5 up the other end to collect the 3 points.
Thorpe United Ladies claim the first honours of the season as they were crowned Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions on Sunday. A 9 point lead at the top of the table going into the weekend have lost just the once in the league from 11 played. The introduction of youth stepping up into the 1st team rejuvenating the squad have led from start to finish. Injuries hampering progress in the cup competitions recently Thorpe went into this Sunday’s home game knowing a positive result would clinch the title. Were taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies who with games in hand on the leaders remained the only side who could catch them.
Sprowston Athletic unlucky in the finish having gotten themselves into a two goal lead with Katie Fray and Keri Boorman on the scoresheet, Thorpe coming back with 3 late goals to claim the win. Captain and top scorers Rebekah Lake on target for her 15th goal of the season. Laura Hedtke scoring for the 9th time with Alice Smith making her 1st start also celebrating a goal.
Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies on your title success. Champions!
One more game took place in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with 4th placed Gorleston Ladies travelling to 5th placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A big win for Gorleston takes them up to 3rd in the table ahead of Aylsham Ladies on goal difference. Mary Croft trebling her tally for the season finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match. A brace too for Sophie Gillett, with Bethany Turner also getting a goal in a 7-0 victory for the visitors.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
A reply for Beccles Town Ladies and Bulldogs Ladies in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate after the original tie was abandoned after 76 minutes with Beccles leading 4-0 due to a serious injury. Rearranged for this weekend an away trip to Aylsham Ladies awaiting the winner. Beccles getting players back from injury after a long spell without a game Bulldogs Ladies short on numbers. Beccles running out convincing winners to reach the last 4 of the competition, three players on target for a brace, Rosie Cook, Megan Vincent and the first goals of the season for Elisha Maher. Darcie Keiley also scoring her 1st goal, with Emily Coe and Francesca Heaney getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The fixture list virtually wiped out in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday due to the weather. Only one game surviving and that thanks to a reversal of fixture with Thetford Town Ladies down to visit Freethorpe Ladies becoming the home side. 7th versus 8th in the table, Thetford beginning to find their feet in women’s football recording their 6th win of the season. Melissa Boulton hitting a brace on Sunday moves onto 15 goals this season for Thetford. Shannon Richardson scoring too has 7 for the season with Rebecca White getting a goal too in only her 2nd game for Thetford in a 4-1 win. Kiera Squires the goalscorer for Freethorpe.
Cambridge City Ladies extended their unbeaten run at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division to 16 games this Sunday to move 11 points clear. Were away at the weekend taking on Colney Heath Ladies for the 2nd successive week, a 2-0 victory at home in the League Cup quarter finals last time out. The weather conditions playing havoc as they would for everyone this weekend, Cambridge City on the attack chances created a goal disallowed took the lead in the 1st half went on to score 3 more to win the game 4-0 to clinch the 3 points, a brace for top scorer Erin Davies moves onto 22 for the season. Lauren Tomlinson also getting on the scoresheet along with Freya Standing scoring her first, first team goal in only her 2nd appearance.
Royston Town Ladies climb up into 2nd place in the ERWFL Premier Division ahead of Acle United Women, the Hertfordshire side enjoying a good season were at home on Sunday up against AFC Dunstable Ladies who travelled with just the 7 available, through a shortage of players and injuries. Damage limitation a tough ask against a Royston side with goalscorers all over the pitch. Sammy Tinsley top scoring in the match netting a hat-trick. Three players were on target for a brace, Angharad Chambers, Georgia Gannaway and top scorer Joanne Rutherford. Goals to for Samantha Edgar, Eva Ramsey and ex-Dunstable player Charlotte South in a 12-0 win. A tough season for Dunstable yet they remain positive, new signings and players returning from injury are already building for next season.
Another side struggling in the ERWFL Premier Division this season are, AFC Sudbury Ladies, bottom of the table they too are short on numbers, a trip down to Essex this Sunday to play Harlow Town Ladies, the promoted side tussling with Bedford Ladies for 6th spot in the table. Bethany Chambers new to the 1st team squad making just her 4th appearance this Sunday took her goals scored to 8 as she was on target for a double hat-trick. Poppy Binding, Harlow’s top scorer moved onto 15 for the season with a brace at the weekend. A brace too for Olivia Steele, with Rubie Smith also finding the back of the net for a goal. The final score 12-1 to Harlow, Tegan Burling also scoring her 1st of the season for Harlow.
Wymondham Town Ladies were at home to Bedford Ladies. The Norfolk side newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division consolidating 4th position just 2 points behind 2nd placed Royston. Got off to a good start on Sunday opening the scoring in the 9th minute Kayleigh Holloway shooting from outside the box. A minute later Wymondham were 2-0 ahead, Bethany Fretwell scoring from a Mollie O’Callaghan free-kick. Top scorer Laura Nicholls making it 3-0 inside the opening 20 minutes. Bedford reducing the deficit to 3-1 before half-time. Wymondham restored their 3 goal cushion with 15 minutes left to play, Nicholls cross put in at the far post by Holloway for her 2nd of the game. Wymondham winning 4-1.
Two goals for Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway
Behind the chasing pack lay Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in 5th another postponement this weekend sees them have up to 5 games on the sides above them, a busy run in to come.
ERWFL Division One
ERWFL Division One saw 4 of the scheduled 6 league games this Sunday fall foul of the weather. 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were on the road on Sunday off to Wodson Park to play Hertford Town Ladies. Have been their when it’s windy and know how tough playing condition can be. Hertford enjoying a revival in recent game a 4 game unbeaten run that included a credible 0-0 draw away to Bowers & Pitsea. Now the side met in the reverse fixture with Bowers & Pitsea looking to keep the pressure on leaders St Ives Town Ladies. Hertford taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes with the ball squirming under the keeper after a slip. Bowers & Pitsea soon back on level terms Megan Harley with a 30 yard strike finding the bottom corner in the 6th minute. The visitors with an opportunity to take the lead with a minute left on the clock 2nd half awarded a penalty the effort saved. The 2nd half remaining goalless the sides sharing the points once again drawing 1-1.
Recent results going against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies they have slipped down the Division One table, laying 9th going into Sunday’s home clash with Lawford Ladies a positive result would see them back into the top half of the table. The weather conditions not helping Hoddesdon starting slow the sides were level at 1-1 at half-time, Daisy Canny on target for Lawford, Rosy Wodhams scoring late in the half for Hoddesdon. The hosts getting the better of the 2nd half Kristina O’Connell putting them into the lead in the 51st minute, Hoddesdon were quickly 3-1 ahead with Leah Dunnage scoring for the 1st time this season. Grace Leslie securing the 3 points for Hoddesdon with a goal in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 4-1.
The Round-Up returns after a weeks absence. My apologies but it couldn’t be helped family matters taking priority needed my full attention. All sorted now I hope. This Sunday saw another wet beginning with strong blustery winds affecting all games in the afternoon making for difficult playing conditions for all the games that managed to get played across the country.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
The FAWNL affected by the weather as much as most, with 5 matches across the Southern Premier & South East Division One called off. Gillingham Ladies home match with Watford Ladies the only postponement in the Southern Premier Division. Coventry United Ladies made it 13 games unbeaten at the top of the Southern Premier with the league leaders away to bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. Amy Wathan putting Coventry into the lead in the 14th minute. Wathan was then brought down inside the box midway through the 1st half, Chenise Austin doubling the advantage from the penalty spot. Shannon O’Brien adding a 3rd goal in the 38th minute to see the visitors lead 3-0 at half-time.
Coventry United Ladies, Amy Wathan
Bethan Merrick scoring from an Amber Hughes cross midway through the 2nd half saw Coventry extend their lead over the Essex side a 5th goal coming through an own goal, Merrick’s shot deflected in. Coventry awarded another penalty for handball in stoppage time, Austin scoring to secure a 6-0 victory opening up a 4 point lead.
A third successive league defeat now for former Southern Premier Division leaders, Chichester City Ladies. The 2nd placed side seeing Coventry pull further away as they were defeated at home to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Started well taking the lead in the 17th minute with Jess Lewry on the scoresheet. Loughborough coming back to equalise with 10 minutes of the 1st half remaining, Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner. The visitors taking the lead themselves 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick, Chloe Young scoring from the spot. Chichester pushed hard for an equaliser themselves 2nd half creating opportunities Loughborough defending, 15 minutes left on the clock Laura Steele struck from 25 yards out the ball in off the post to put the visitors 3-1 up and take the 3 points home with them.
Cardiff City Ladies in 3rd in the Southern Premier Division close the gap to Chichester to just 2 points now with their 7th straight league win on Sunday. Left it late however away from home against Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Kelly Issac’s strike in the 19th minute seeing Cardiff take the lead. Plymouth battled back to level the scores in the 36th minute with Zoe Cunningham scoring. The hosts doing well despite the conditions took the lead themselves on the hour with Jessie Jones making it 2-1. The game moving into the final 10 minutes a ball played into the area from a corner put in at the far post by Cori Williams to level it up at 2-2 for Cardiff. Plymouth pressing for a winning goal were hit on the counter in the final minute with Kylie Nolan firing in what would prove to be the winner for Cardiff.
Portsmouth FC Women were at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies this Sunday in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. The hosts opening the scoring just before the half hour with Katie Jones . New signing Jade Widdows scoring her 1st goal for Portsmouth since joining from Chichester 7 minutes later running in behind with the ball cutting inside to score from inside the area to make it 2-0. Portsmouth 2-0 up at the break Alex Collighan introduced to the action in the 59th minute making an immediate impact scoring with her 1st touch to put the hosts into a 3 goal lead. Rachel Panting adding a 4th with 20 minutes to go to seal a 4-0 win for Portsmouth.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games survived in FAWNL South East Division One, the weather conditions not great, no goals to report either as both games finished goalless. That though some achievement for Cambridge United WFC as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season. 12 straight wins for Crawley before this Sunday since promotion to the FAWNL. Worked hard to find an opening, frustrated as Cambridge battled hard defensively to keep them out.
A point to between Denham United Ladies at home to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. A scrappy affair with the blustery conditions not helping at all, few chances created.
Semi-final action this Sunday on Women’s Football East the football from Cambridgeshire with Wisbech Town Ladies at home to Ketton Ladies in the last 4 of the Division One Cup.
A new competition introduced last season the trophy currently held by Histon Ladies Reserves. The sides from both the Championship North & South entering. 15 entrants this season now down to the last 4. St Ives Town Ladies Development take on Burwell Tigers Ladies in the other semi-final game.
Today’s semi-final featuring the top two in the Championship North, Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies leading the way both with 100% records until they met a month ago at today’s venue, Ketton winning the game 3-1. 3 points the lead for Ketton the pair have to face each other twice more in the league, the title battle could go all the way.
Wisbech Town Ladies enjoying a successful season to date reaching 3 cup semi-finals. Lost their Invitation Cup last 4 match to ERWFL Premier Division leaders Cambridge City Ladies, this the 2nd of the 3 semi-finals with the League Cup to come next weekend. 2nd in the Championship North have had their fair share of injury problems yet have kept up their title challenge, losing the one game at home to Ketton.
Ketton Ladies are by some distance West the furthest side covered by the Women’s Football East umbrella, a number of South Lincolnshire sides compete in the Championship North, Ketton west of Stamford, are enjoying a fantastic season themselves, a 100% league record they narrowly missed out on reaching the last 4 of the League Cup having come through the group stage unbeaten. Into the last 4 of the Division One Cup confidence high.
Wisbech Town Ladies usually play their home games at Fenland Park, but with heavy rain forecast over night in through much of Sunday morning have the option to switch to a 3G surface within Wisbech at the Thomas Clarkson Academy. Game dropping like flies elsewhere due to the weather, we had a heatwave a fortnight ago, no such luck today. The rain mostly gone it remained overcast the rain giving way to strong blustery winds, the sun trying to make an appearance, not at all ideal for a cup semi-final and there would be a bit of everything before the final whistle blew!
Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Amy Hepting, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Jasmine Luckett, Chelsea King, Abby Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Faye Kowalewsky (C), Sophie Swinden & Amt Newell. Subs – Beth Hodgson, Jade Court, Charlotte Rose, Rachael Simpson & Naomi Lyons.
Ketton Ladies starting XI – Georgia Ireland (C), Amy Gray, Danielle Usher, Katie Altham, Beth Goodman, Jane Roche, Emma Ward, Sascha Smith, Liberty Cook, Claire Lawrenson & Fran Kavanagh. Subs – Ellie Cotterill, Claire Walpole & Natalie Duncan.
(roll on roll of substitutes)
The weather’s not great at kick-off blustery and cold the sun low also as Wisbech get the first half underway attacking into the weather wearing Red shirts and socks with black shorts. My first look at Ketton this afternoon wearing sky blue shirts with vertical white stripes, navy shorts and socks. Wisbech push on through the middle, Chloe Stanborough with a driving run to get up in support of Sophie Swinden and Amy Newell in attack, closing in on the area, Katie Altham stands her ground tackling to win the ball back for Ketton.
A throw won high on the right Wisbech captain forces Ketton into conceding a corner, played in from the right the ball across the six yard box cleared at the far post. Ketton bring the ball on through the middle, Jane Roche on to Fran Kavanagh back to goal 30 yards out plays the ball wide to Sascha Smith breaking forwards on the left she drives inside ploughing her way forwards, four Wisbech players converge to stop her run.
The wind at their backs Ketton’s forwards balls are proving difficult to chase down both Kavanagh and Claire Lawrenson finding the rolling ball picking up speed as it is caught by the wind as they run in behind the Wisbech defence. Lawrenson getting clear on the left into the area receives the pass from Smith on the wing, gets her shot away early past the advancing Amy Hepting keeping goal for Wisbech the ball racing wide across the face of goal.
Ketton Ladies, Emma Ward
Emma Ward pressing the ball as Wisbech try to get away on the wing wins a throw high on the right the ball on for Lawrenson she has support on the wing from Liberty Cook the ball into her squared inside with Roche making a central run, meets the shot first time 20 yards out her strike blocked inside the box by Katie Garner.
GOAL! A little over 10 minutes played and Wisbech take the lead, the hosts with the ball on the left wing put into Sophie Swinden 25 yards out, holds off Beth Goodman as she turns infield sends the pass on central to Newell the striker takes it on across the top of the D looking for an opening, checks her run superbly giving herself half a yard takes on the shot catching the ball well sending it arrowing in on target just under the crossbar to score 1-0.
Amy Newell with the opening goal for Wisbech Town Ladies
Wisbech with the early lead the weather volatile to say the least strong gusts making the playing conditions tough, the notepad it taking a battering. On the attack, Newell tackled outside the area, Kowalewsky running on to strike the loose ball 25 yards out sends her effort wide. Kowalewsky busy on the right wing pressuring Ketton on the ball forces another corner. This one causing havoc inside the six yard box over the crowd attacking near post Jasmine Luckett beyond nods it back across, goalkeeper Georgia Ireland getting something on it as it’s knocked goalwards not cleared drops back over the keeper only to be hooked off the line Ketton getting their box clear.
Goodman coming on to halfway plays a great diagonal ball on for Smith coming in from the left strikes the ball from 25 yards out her attempt whistling over the bar. Conditions are tough the wind strong one moment gone the next keeping possession difficult, both sides seeing passes going awry. Stanborough winning the ball in the middle for Wisbech looking to get forwards support the attackers. Kavanagh pacy with or without the ball at her feet has it this time cutting in from the left shoots from the angle, Garner blocking.
Ketton Ladies, Beth Goodman
Wisbech make the first change of the match Naomi Lyons coming on in attack for Newell. Kowalewsky and Sophie Swinden combine for Wisbech on the right, Altman with Amy Gray stopping the cross the ball put back down the line for Chelsea King she lifts a high ball into the area, Goodman under it heading away for Ketton. Lawrenson coming into midfield pressures the ball winning possession sends it on a deflection of a defender seeing Kavanagh run in behind clear on the left powers on into the area, Hepting coming out to close the angle saves well as the ball is fired at her at close range.
Wisbech Town Ladies, Sophie Swinden looking to get past Beth Goodman
Ketton make their first change Claire Walpole on for Cook. Kavanagh is upended the visitors with a free-kick inside the Wisbech half to the left in front of the centre circle. Players go forwards line up across the top of the area Goodman with the wind at her back plays the ball in plenty of high on it the ball flies in over Hepting, Ketton think they have equalised much to their consternation however it is ruled out the flag up with three players encroaching before the ball was played one close on the keeper.
Fran Kavanagh on the attack for Ketton Ladies
Lyons cutting inside with the ball on the left for Wisbech closing in on the area looks to send the pass across for Sophie Swinden looking to get in behind far post the ball intercepted by Altham. Walpole with a quickly taken throw down the right for Lawrenson she takes it on to the byline her initial cross cut out she gets a 2nd bite lifts the ball in towards the near post Ward arriving flicks a leg up to meet the ball turning it towards goal, Hepting is right behind it.
Stanborough plays the ball on for Sophie Swinden running up the right channel after ball checks back as the Ketton defence close her down rolls it out to Kowalewsky on the right wing she lifts it over the top with Swinden running into the area, Ireland reading the danger advancing to catch the ball.
Not much time left on the clock first half Ketton press the attack left Smith inside Kavanagh and Lawrenson close the ball don force an error Leah Hall putting the ball back to her keeper Hepting catching it inside her area, an indirect free-kick awarded on the six yard line for Ketton, Goodman forwards as red shirts flood the goal line for Wisbech the free-kick is charged down a Wisbech player down treatment needed a corner conceded, play resumes the ball in towards the top of the area headed clear, the half ends just as the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Half-time Wisbech Town Ladies 1-0 Ketton Ladies
A slender lead for Wisbech at the break have dealt wit the conditions better but have been playing into the weather first half the ball running away from Ketton making it difficult to stick in the final 3rd. Few chances created Ketton certainly aggrieved they aren’t level. Both stay out on the field the normally I tweet a few half-time scores out about this time but as it was I was in the eye of a tornado and standing up was tricky enough the sky dark rain falling. Any attempt to put an umbrella up futile. The game far from settled as everyone returns to the pitch for the 2nd half.
Ketton to get the 2nd half underway the ball put out to Smith on the wing wins a throw, the ball put into her feet turn inside, garner tackling the ball cleared as far as Roche lifted back into the box Kaylie Smith heading clear for Wisbech as the flag goes up. Up the other end Ireland saves well pushing the ball behind for a corner as Sophie Swinden gets in behind on the right side shooting from inside the box.
Just as quickly as the mini storm assaulted the ground, it gives way for the sun breaking through the clouds. Garner intercepts Smith’s ball as she tries to send Kavanagh through on goal.
GOAL! An early strike in the 2nd half and it goes to Wisbech who double their advantage the ball hotly contested in the middle, Sommerville then Stanborough the ball pops clear on the right with Sophie Swinden gathering it into her feet and driving on entering the area shoots early before Ireland can set herself, Swinden letting out a roar of celebration as the ball races past the keeper on its way into the back of the net 2-0.
Wisbech Town Ladies, Sophie Swinden
Ketton come very close to pulling it back to 2-1 moments later the ball played on up the left for Lawrenson the striker in behind takes the ball on into the area, Hepting coming to close her down, Lawrenson beating the keeper as she goes to ground taking the ball on into the six yard box looks certain to score from the angle the ball fired in, out of no where Kaylie Swinden gets back across the near post to get her head to the ball and send it behind for the corner kick. Wisbech defend the corner are brimming with confidence.
Ketton make a change Gray coming off on in her place Ellie Cotterill. Newell is back on for Wisbech Lyons off. Newell winning the ball on for Luckett she pushes on, Danielle Usher tackling wins the ball back for Ketton. The visitors with a throw deep on the right Goodman with it into the box Ward with the cross looking for Smith top of the area Kowalewsky back to defend for Wisbech.
Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Faye Kowalewsky
Hepting brave coming across to slide in claim the ball as Kavanagh gives chase into the box on the right the pair coming together the keeper needing treatment is okay to continue. Hall with a good tackle stops a Ketton attack puts the ball on for Newell up the left wing the wind returning once again the gust giving Newell too much to do. Sommerville links with Stanborough breaking forwards through the middle for Wisbech, tries to play the threaded pass on for Sophie Swinden, Cotterill cutting it out for Ketton. The visitors getting frustrated, it’s not happening in the final third as they look to reduce the deficit.
Ketton Ladies, Jane Roche looking to get the better of Wisbech’s Chloe Stanborough
Goodman over a free-kick wide right a good delivery across the face of goal bouncing in the six yard box, Smith can’t quite reach it at the far post. Sophie Swinden plays the ball across the top of the area right to left, with Newell getting support from Hall behind her the latter putting in a decent cross towards the far post Swinden their, the flag up against her however. Sophie Swinden comes close once again positioned central 25 yards out the ball rolled into her feet she catches it first time her looping effort smashing down off the crossbar.
Wisbech growing stronger as the 2nd half progresses, confidence high as the game moves into the final 20 minutes. Lyon rejoining the game in place of Luckett. A throw right side to Wisbech, Stanborough picking it up driving inside 20 yards out is clipped but stays on her feet advantage played as she gets the ball on for Sophie Swinden central she clips it in towards goal, Ireland taking it high right behind it. Into the final 5 minutes of normal play.
GOAL! Wisbech are on the attack pressing the ball outside the Ketton box the ball popping around Sophie Swinden with Lyons the ball falling straight into the path off Stanborough just outside the box right of the D meets t on the volley catching it sweetly a perfect strike little lift low to the ground flashes towards goal Ireland diving to her left the ball creeping in inside the post 3-0.
Wisbech Town Ladies, Chloe Stanborough
More bad news for Ketton as Ireland is hurt trying to make the save may have collided with the post a lengthy spell of treatment follows, Ireland is thankfully up on her feet but can’t continue, Gray the player stepping in to don the keepers gloves. Into stoppage time now and quite a bit to be added with substitutions and injury breaks.
GOAL! Gray has no time to bed in as Wisbech go on to score a 4th goal good work from Kowalewsky on the right off a throw turns inside puts the ball on for Sophie Swinden cleverly peeling into space on the wing with her captain drawing defenders to her the pass weighted perfectly Swinden shoots early sending the ball across keeper into the back of the net 4-0.
Wisbech send on Rachael Simpson to join the defence in place of Kaylie Swinden. King receiving the pass central from Kowalewsky sees her high ball into the area drop onto the roof of the net. Hall tackles Lawrenson as she tries to drive in behind her on the right. Stanborough charging forwards with the ball through the middle shes her low shot blocked inside the area the rebound taking it away to the right Kowalewsky sending the cross in long to the far post Sophie Swinden on a hat-trick at the far post volleying over from 2 yards out.
GOAL! The miss a distant memory moments later as Swinden goes on to claim her hat-trick Wisbech all attack late on driving forwards Stanborough on central for Lyons her driven effort from the top of the area saved by Gray off the substitutes keepers thigh the deflection putting it behind her to the left Swinden there getting her foot over the ball to smash it into the goal beyond 5-0.
Ketton are deflated with moment left the weather cruelly deciding to behave late on too as Wisbech press the attack.
GOAL! Time for one more goal from the hosts players forwards Stanborough with the ball wide right drifts inside from the angle I suspect it was meant to be a cross but it looked good as she floated a high ball into the area the ball finding the top corner at the far post to wrap up an emphatic result 6-0.
Full time Wisbech Town Ladies 6-0 Ketton Ladies
Wisbech Town Ladies reach the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup with a big win against their league rivals Ketton Ladies the final score 6-0. The weather playing a huge factor in the game conditions awful, we had a bit of everything in those 90 minutes, hardly what you need for any game let alone a semi-final. Wisbech adapted the better however and an early goal gave them confidence only growing with another early 2nd half as Ketton saw efforts rules out and denied by last gasp defending. A huge confidence boost for Wisbech to take into the final months of the season, played well from back to front.
My first look at Ketton and I am sure this is not the performance they wanted, even without seeing them play before know they are better and no doubt this result will hurt, the scoreline certainly harsh with 3 goals added in injury time. The league to focus on now and they remain in pole position both games against Wisbech at home, the title still very much in their control, will bounce back even though today’s defeat will hurt.
Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on reaching the Division One Cup Final where they will meet St Ives Town Ladies Development who beat Burwell Tigers Ladies 3-1. Details of the final to be announced shortly.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders all wearing red shirts this Sunday. Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Faye Kowalewsky setting the tone on the right wing both in attack and getting back to close down the ball. Sophie Swinden has always been a clinical finisher in front of goal and took her goals well this afternoon. Is just edged out to the award however by Chloe Stanborough right from the 1st whistle she was a threat driving on in midfield setting up numerous attacks aswell as disrupting those of her opponents, scoring 2 goals too is my Player of the Match.
You ask yourself why do you do it sometimes especially on days like today, the weather was awful a bit of everything, but I know I’ll be back again next Sunday for more, been a tough old week and this is just what I needed. Good to see both sides in action my thanks to both for the team details as appreciated as always onto the next one.
The football action this Sunday comes from the FAWNL Plate. The competition reaching the the last 4, with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies taking on Liverpool Feds Women, the prize for the winner a place in a national final.
Gillingham FC Ladies play West Bromich Albion Women in the other FAWNL Plate semi-final.
A Determining Round played at the start of the season to decide which FAWNL sides from a 6 divisions with play in, the winners of that game going on to contest the League Cup the losing sides entering the League Plate. Both competitions down to the last 4.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division after winning the South East Division One title last season. Beginning to find their feet at a higher level, currently 10th with 4 league wins are well clear of the bottom 2. Have saved their best form for the cup. As well as reaching the FAWNL Plate semi-finals, have enjoyed a good run in this season’s FA Women’s Cup and are once again through to the Bucks and Berks Women’s County Cup Final a competition the club has dominated in recent seasons.
A bye for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in the 1st Round of the Plate, they were away to South West Division One side Brislington Ladies in the 2nd Round, a 3-0 win seeing them safely into the 3rd Round. A home tie against Midlands Division One side Bedworth United Ladies needing to be settled by an extra-time winner, Milton Keynes winning 2-1. At home once more in the quarter finals, just last Sunday a tough game against promotion chasing Keynsham Town Ladies from South West Division One, Milton Keynes 2-1 down with the clock running down Amy Gooderham levelling the scores with a last gasp goal to send the tie into extra-time. No more goals the game heading into a penalty shoot-out Milton Keynes edging it 6-5 to advance to the semi-finals.
Liverpool Feds Women play in the FAWNL Northern Division One currently in mid-table and into the final of their own County Cup competition. Are looking to follow in the footsteps of fellow Division one sides, Enfield Town Ladies and Luton Town Ladies in reaching their first ever National League final. Pushed Northern Premier Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies all the way in the Determining Round just missing out on penalties.
Into the Plate competition received a bye in the 1st Round. At home to fellow Northern Division one side Crewe Alexandra Ladies in the 2nd Round 2nd half goals from Jennifer Rogers and Demi Devereaux securing a 2-0 win. Onto the 3rd Round and another home fixture, a 3rd minute goal from Devereaux the different for Liverpool Feds as they beat fellow league side Chester Le Street Ladies 1-0 to set up a 3rd successive home tie in the quarter finals against Southern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women. 1st half goals from Jodie Mortimer and Carla Lee seeing them cause an upset against higher league opposition to reach the last 4.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have from the beginning of this season played the majority of their home matches at Stadium MK itself. One of the leading football stadiums in the country aswell as hosting MK Dons the facility has hosted a number of national sporting events including England’s Lionesses. A fantastic venue to play at good for the Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as well as a great experience for all the sides visiting. A top quality playing surface and progress to let the women’s side use it on a regular basis. The weather a far cry from last weekend but that was the exception pretty much back to normal for the beginning of March, rain over night and falling for much of the journey down. Overcast and gloomy showers possible throughout the afternoon. Plenty of cover to be had inside the stadium.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Emma Kirby, Leanna Doyle (C), Louise Naylor, Laura Bright, Vicky Holland, Alice Hughes, Chlarizia Mia, Ellie Gough, Kerry Newman, Leah Cudone & Amy Gooderham. Subs – Sophie Shults, Charley Clarke, Sasha Newcombe, Charly Wright & Kim Farrow.
Liverpool Feds Women – Meghan Pope, Rosie Kinvig, Abby Pope, Nicola James, Caroline Charlton, Jodie Mortimer, Chantelle Thompson (C), Amy Seagraves, Demi Devereaux, Jennifer Rogers & Carla Lee. Subs – Natalie Clark, Laura Bartup, Helen Griffiths, Mollie Farley & Emily Douglas.
It’s Liverpool to kick-off the Plate semi-final wearing an all navy kit, with Milton Keynes lined up opposite in an all white strip with gold trim. The visitors move the ball left forced to come back inside the ball played into centre back Nicola James on halfway her forwards ball intercepted takes a deflection of the defender sending it out into the right channel into the path of Liverpool attacker Jennifer Rogers 25 yards out she takes on the shot the ball racing wide of the post.
Liverpool making a positive start to the game flood forwards the ball left Demi Devereaux given the ball central lets fly from 20 yards Emma Kirby diving at her near post pushing the ball wide for a corner kick. The ball in towards the near post defended for a 2nd corner, this taken short Milton Keynes prevent the cross attempt to counter, Liverpool quick to close the ball down and regain possession.
Liverpool Feds, Amy Seagraves
Amy Seagraves on the ball for Liverpool takes it right has Rogers ahead of her, the pair joined by full back Rosie Kinvig back up the line for Seagraves she lofts a high ball in towards the top of the area the header won by Milton Keynes’ Chlarizia Mia. Liverpool have their opponents on the back foot early on pressing the ball and quick to launch attacks. Ellie Gough with the ball for Milton Keynes drives through the middle looks to thread the ball on for Amy Gooderham leading the attack, Liverpool captain Chantelle Thompson tracking back putting the tackle in to win the ball outside the box. The visitors get hold of the ball on the middle rolled out to Carla Lee moving left drives forwards into the area shoots the ball across the keeper strikes the base of the far post.
GOAL! Liverpool have dominated the play in the opening 9 minutes and the pressure exerted brings them a deserved goal. Mounting an attack on the left Devereaux chasing the ball to the byline manages to send a cross in towards goal, Kirby down at her near post the ball squeezes through her and to her dismay is over the line before it can be cleared 0-1.
A sluggish start to the game from Milton Keynes the goal conceded the jolt they needed, press on from the restart the ball from Gough into Kerry Newman left side head down she drives on, Caroline Charlton coming across to support Kinvig, no way through for Newman. A throw out on the right level with the top of the Liverpool box dropped into Alice Hughes, turns pushes on into the area past two players before shooting the ball held at the near post by Meghan Pope keeping goal for Liverpool.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Alice Hughes
A free-kick won on halfway for Milton Keynes defender Laura Bright to play the ball up towards the top of the area, Charlton up with Gooderham winning the header for Liverpool. Gough with Newman to her left build it attack for Milton Keynes coming central, Gooderham looks to break in behind, Liverpool are quick to close down the threat. Devereaux bombing on down the left wing cuts inside unleashing a shot from outside the box, Kirby getting down making the safe gloving the ball away inside the box, no one on the follow up Bright sends it clear.
Seagraves along with Thompson and Jodie Mortimer working hard to close the ball down in the middle, break up any forward momentum Milton Keynes are trying to make. Seagraves winning the ball right plays in Rogers she is fouled a free-kick awarded the delivery to the far post long over the runners. Gooderham is away after the ball into the left corner cuts inside in an attempt to get into the area Charlton doing well up against her wins it back. Play spread by Milton Keynes for Leah Cudone on the right wing, Devereaux back to support Abby Pope the pair prevent the cross.
GOAL! Milton Keynes get themselves back on level term with 23 minutes gone, the goal coming from a miscued ball at the back from Liverpool, Cudone intercepting the ball put across to Newman 25 yards out left of the D, time and space to line up a shot she hits it superbly, the ball flying in over the keeper kisses the underside of the crossbar on its way in 1-1.
Is an entertaining game that has certainly got the crowd buzzing a good atmosphere amongst the supporters. Liverpool push on Thompson with the ball makes ground on the left before firing an infield ball in towards Lee 25 yards out central, doesn’t get the connection with the ball she was looking for her low effort on target but lacking the power or pace to trouble Kirby. A free-kick for Liverpool inside the Milton Keynes half the ball played into the area the header seeing the ball knocked down to the right six yards out Rogers peeling away unmarked sets her sights meets it on the volley her attempt fired wide.
Jennifer Rogers breaking forwards for Liverpool Feds
Bright brings the ball on from the back for Milton Keynes sends it out to Newman on the left wing takes it on before sending a low diagonal ball into Gough outside the box her shot charged down by Charlton Milton Keynes beginning to exert some pressure in the final third the ball left played inside Gooderham right, Abby Pope doing enough closing her down to prevent he taking the ball on drops for Newman, she too is quickly closed down, the ball popping out to Gough he shot well over from distance.
Liverpool Feds, Rosie Kinvig
Seagraves brings the ball on right into Rogers closely marked by Naylor a clever back heel sends the ball on Seagraves after it cuts it back for Kinvig, she sends a cross from deep high into the box Lee in a central position six yards out gets her head on the ball, it loops up towards goal Kirby however can see it land on the roof of her net.
GOAL! Milton Keynes turn it around to take the lead in the 38th minute, the hosts winning a penalty as Naylor winning the ball in midfield plays in on for Gooderham getting in behind takes the ball on into the box left is closed down by Meghan Pope the goalkeeper saving at close range is grounded however as the ball bounces up for Gooderham about to take it on the sliding challenge comes in and the attacker is cleaned out the referee pointing to the spot. Captain Leanna Doyle to take, a good strike sending the keeper the wrong way to make it 2-1.
Leanna Doyle scoring from the penalty spot
Rogers with the ball left in attack for Liverpool has Lee inside her, Mortimer has gotten ahead of them both inside the D, tries to set up Lee making a run t o get past her into the box, Vicky Holland wins the ball for Milton Keynes. Cudone with good work with the ball on the right comes inside lays it off for Hughes central her strike from outside the area over. Both sides press late in the first half with defences coming out on top, Holland intercepting for Milton Keynes, Kinvig closing down Newman as she threatens to get forwards.
Half-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2-1 Liverpool Feds Women
A lively contest Liverpool with a fantastic start that gave them plenty of confidence, getting the lead their play deserved. It was the wake up call Milton Keynes needed after a slow start drawing level with a fantastic strike from Newman end the half leading 2-1. A lot of energy put into the game from Liverpool closing the ball down and positive in attack creating chances. Strong challenges starting to build as the half progressed Milton Keynes frustrated at times.
No changes for either side at half-time it’s Milton Keynes to get the 2nd half underway. The ball lost Liverpool get straight on the offence the ball with Devereaux on the left to the line she fires in a cross along the face of the six yard box the interception by Bright sees the ball cleared. Positive from both sides Liverpool counter Devereaux central laying the pass on for Lee she is marshalled wide left into the six yard box manages to get inside her marker take a shot the angle against her Kirby scooping it up at her near post.
Laura Bright bringing the ball out of defence for Milton Keynes
Cudone winning the ball right plays it inside to Gough lifted up into the area James clears for Liverpool. Devereaux with the ball left side comes central a constant threat, Holland clearing her ball into the area for a throw in. Thompson combines with Rogers on the right as Liverpool build in attack the cross squared in low Lee waiting on the penalty spot doesn’t connect with her shot.
10 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Milton Keynes make the first change of the match with Kim Farrow coming on for Gooderham in attack. Liverpool pressing the ball high up the pitch won by Kinvig on for Rogers her cross into the area for Lee, cut out by Bright for a corner kick. A good delivery into the near post defended the ball headed on across goal runs out for a throw. Milton Keynes threaten to break Farrow with Newman on the left, Liverpool get the ball back to Meghan Pope. Newman attempts to thread the ball in behind for Farrow too much weight on the ball.
Liverpool Feds, Carla Lee
Rogers twists and turns with the ball getting into the box from the left looks to drill a ball in across goal, Kirby down the ball pops out of her gloves, the keeper pouncing on the ball before Liverpool can capitalise. An hour gone it’s Liverpool’s turn to make a change Rogers the player giving way on comes Emily Douglas. Seagraves on for Mortimer through the middle looks to release Lee, Bright can get across the attackers run shield the ball back to her keeper. Getting a little scrappy both sides pressing the ball now.
GOAL! Liverpool level the scores in the 64th minute… that’s about all I can tell you. Who scored? Liverpool put the ball in from the left into a crowed six yard box Kirby arms up to claim it the ball pops loose what follows it a goalmouth scramble, navy and white shirts all over the place the ball finds it’s way over the line, another own goal possibly, Liverpool don’t care they have the equaliser 2-2.
That’s reached the volume levels amongst the crowd, Liverpool with a good amount of travelling support. Milton Keynes get on the attack from the restart the ball left put into the box caught safely by Pope. Doyle is shown a yellow card as she concedes a free-kick. The game in danger of spilling over passion showing from both sets of players. Cudone with the ball has Newman and Mia with her getting the return pass on the right is upended by Seagraves wins the free-kick. Hughes over it long to the far post headed back into the middle Cudone first to it can’t keep her shot down.
Milton Keynes captain Leanna Doyle clearing the ball
A 2nd change for Milton Keynes, Newman giving way on comes Charley Wright with 20 minutes left on the clock. Liverpool have their tails up getting back on level terms still full of energy. Holland frustrated with a decision against her on the edge of the penalty area ends up in the referees book. Put on from the left the hosts head clear. Hughes central plays it wide to Wright on the left taking it on fires the pass into the area for Farrow, good control near post turns into a shot Pope saving well with her legs the ball spinning behind for a corner.
Liverpool Feds captain, Chantelle Thompson
Liverpool make their 2nd change of the match Lee coming off, Laura Bartup her replacement into the final 15 minutes. Cudone in behind on the right wing on for Gough she plays the ball into the box is over Farrow central, Wright racing in behind can’t turn it goalwards. Liverpool counter the ball through the middle on for Bartup, Bright blocking her shot. Cudone coming into the middle 30 yards out Farrow ahead of her looking to make a run left to right across the D, Cudone picks her out no shot on sees Gough in space to her right sends the ball on Gough striking her shot over the crossbar.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Leah Cudone
Liverpool have maintained a good tempo throughout the match and sense the game is their’s for the taking push on Mortimer into Bartup she has a go from 30 yards out a deflection sending the ball behind for a corner on the right. Into the near post Kirby coming for it just about keeps hold of it. Charlton comes on with the ball for Liverpool finds Douglas on the right Kinvig has made a great run inside her forces her way into the box unleashes a shot Kirby diving pushes the ball wide at the near post.
Getting heated now into the final 5 minutes Liverpool are on the front foot late in the game, make a last change with Mollie Farley coming on for Seagraves. Farrow has made a difference since coming on for Milton Keynes seeing the ball into her feet turns and sends it on for Gough bursting into the area right the angle against her she blasts her riding shot into the side netting. Devereaux has a shot charged down for Liverpool the rebound inside box coming to Douglas to her right she slices it wide. Liverpool close the ball down high up the pitch frustrating their opponents.
Cudone is fouled wide right inside the Liverpool half, Milton Keynes making a change before it is taken, Sasha Newsome on for Naylor. The ball long into the area cleared by Liverpool. Alot of stoppage time played few chances created Mortimer with a high cross into the Milton Keynes area cleared by Holland, the final whistle goes and the semi-final goes into extra-time.
Full time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2-2 Liverpool Feds Women
Extra-time
Both sides have made 3 changes but the new rules introduced this season mean a 4th substitute is permitted in the extra half hour of play. Liverpool with a tremendous effort to take it this far finishing the game strong, Milton Keynes to get the 1st 15 minute period of extra play underway. The ball squared into Newcombe attacking centrally for Milton Keynes she is stopped by Kinvig top of the area for Liverpool.
A shot from the left from Liverpool races wide at the near post. Douglas with the ball wide on the right plays an inviting cross into the area, claimed well by Kirby with Bartup closing her down. A corner for the visitors on the left the ball delivered into the near post knocked down through the crowd, Kirby down smartly on her line to claim it.
GOAL! Liverpool take the lead on the 6th minute of extra-time, Mortimer linking up with Bartup through the middle bringing the ball on Mortimer playing it through into the box with Devereaux cutting inside from the left she hits it hard and low past the keeper into the bottom corner 2-3.
Cudone pressuring the ball on the right gets inside to get a shot away Pope with the easy save.
GOAL! A good response from Milton Keynes to falling behind find an immediate reply the ball won back in the middle play turned around Farrow running clear in the middle into the area can’t be caught closing in on the keeper slots the shot past her and into the back of the net 3-3.
Thompson fires a stinging shot into the Milton Keynes goal form 20 yards out the ball bouncing out of Kirby’s gloves her defence getting to it first. Cudone pressing right whips in a low ball missed by the defender six yards out onto Farrow quickly turns and shoots the ball wide. Bartup skims the top of the Milton Keynes crossbar with a long range strike. Liverpool with a 4th change, Helen Griffiths on for Abby Pope. Charlton doing well inside the area to shield the ball from Farrow the ball in from the right Pope down on it.
Half-time extra-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 3-3 Liverpool Feds Women
15 minutes left for one side or the other to find a winning goal or we will have a penalty shoot-out. Liverpool to get the game restarted. Cudone rushing in to claim a loose ball at the back, plays it on for Farrow a driving run is ended as Thompson gets back to defend. Players starting to go down with cramp alot of tired legs out there. Mortimer lets fly from distance Kirby dropping forwards to claim the ball.
GOAL! 5 minutes into the 2nd period of extra-time and Milton Keynes get themselves in front attacking down the left Wright with the cross in towards the near post a great height for Farrow gets up and twisting her neck powers her header across the face of goal to strike the inside of the far post and in for her 2nd of the game 4-3.
Devereaux wins Liverpool a corner the late goal sapping their strength the ball played into the congested six yard box Milton Keynes scramble it away. Devereaux has the legs to get forwards for Liverpool left she dives her cross/shot wide at the near post.
Newcombe fouls Bartup 20 yards out in a dangerous position central. Bartup on it goes for goal Kirby gloving her attempt up into the air manages to punch it away as she’s closed down a corner won, Cudone back to cut it out. Milton Keynes break the ball with Farrow, Bartup gets back to defend Gough onto the loose ball right her cross behind.
Full time extra-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 4-3 Liverpool Feds Women
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies win the game 4-3 in extra-time to reach their first ever National Final. Coming out on top in the finish in a hard fought contest the 2nd game in a week that has gone into extra-time, penalties not needed this time. Were on the back foot for large portions of the game, frustrated by their opponents conceding early never got on top of their opponents, Farrow’s goals proving the difference in the finish. A successful weekend all round for the club with their U16 RTC making it to their 1st ever final too the FA Youth Plate.
A tremendous effort from Liverpool Feds Women pushing Milton Keynes all the way to extra-time, worked hard throughout, the better side easily for large spells a good start a deserved lead, 2-1 down at the break were never out of it and getting back on level terms forced the game into extra-time just running out of steam towards the end. Backed by a buoyant and vocal travelling support they can be proud of how far they have come.
Will be an all Southern Premier Division Final too with Gillingham FC Ladies beating West Bromich Albion Women 1-0 in the other Plate semi-final.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
They don’t get any easier it’s another tough one this Sunday in trying to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. 9 times out of 10 it will be a player from the winning side but occasionally you can’t ignore the notes, which is why today’s award goes to a Liverpool Feds player, Demi Devereaux, a constant threat throughout the game full of running, getting forwards to influence the attack, in what was a great team effort.
An enjoyable trip to the Stadium MK. Always nice to see another side for the first time an entertaining semi-final, Kept dry a bonus my thanks for Milton Keynes for their help with the team details and congratulations upon reaching the FAWNL Plate Final.
