Not one but two cup finals played in Cambridgeshire towards the end of last week, worthy of a mention in this weeks edition of The Round-Up. First up on Thursday it was the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC. Cambridge getting off to the better start however it was Fulbourn who opened the scoring on 15 minutes a break Marie Stubbings playing the ball on for Stacey Kemp to strike past the keeper form outside the box. The lead not lasting long with Freya Standing given time and space to line up a shot from distance the ball bouncing inside the post to make it 1-1. Midfielder Emily Reed scoring from the tightest on angles on the byline to put Cambridge into the lead.
2-1 up at half time Cambridge pressed for a 3rd goal at the start of the 2nd period Fulbourn with few chances Katie Luddy’s run and cross into the area seeing the ball presented to Stubbings at the top of the area she turned well to make it 2-2 with a clinical finish. Into the final 15 minutes a corner the ball cleared off the line the crossbar struck the ball dropping into the six yard bx players diving in the result a penalty to Cambridge. Bronte Rapley tucking it away to put Cambridge 3-2 up the goal enough to win the trophy, the first of a potential treble.
Cambridge City Ladies Development win the Junior Invitation Cup
24 hours later it was the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup competition played at Ely City FC, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies. The Championship North side soon on top against thier Championship South opponents, Wisbech getting forwards top scorer Sophie Swinden putting a one on one opportunity against the keeper wide. The deadlock eventually broken on the half hour Wisbech pressing the ball Chloe Stanborough carrying it into the box shooting the ball pushed wide across goal captain Faye Kowalewsky there on the follow up to nod the ball into the back of the net. Stanborough coming close again striking the bar.
Wisbech remained on top for much of the game preventing St Ives getting forwards with any meaningful attacks in control but just 1 goal in it a 2nd would make thing’s more comfortable awarded a free-kick 35 yards out, Swinden over the ball goes for goal a well taken strike the ball high into the air dropped under the crossbar to put Wisbech 2-0 with less than 20 minutes to play. 2-0 the final score Wisbech Town Ladies winning this season’s Division One Cup.
Wisbech Town Ladies, 2018/19 Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Winners
Cambridge City Ladies Development are now just one win away from secured the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title as they won 7-0 at home to March Town United Ladies this Sunday. Winning the Junior Invitation Cup one win from their last 3 games will see them crowned champions and win the double with the League Cup final also to be contested in May. Megan Tonks moving onto 30 goals for the season scoring a brace against March. There were goals too for Rachel Littlewood, Anna Kanz, Lucy Hurst and Ellie Cullum.
ICA Sports Ladies finished their season this Sunday with a home win against Histon Ladies Reserves, currently in 2nd position in the Premiership table 8 points clear of 3rd placed Cambridge University Women who have 4 games yet to play. Stu Afford stepping down as manager ICA Sports Ladies will be managed by Shaun Harley next season. Ended this campaign on a high goals from Jessica Farchina, Carman Herridge and Donna Nicholls securing a 3-0 win.
Buoyed by a good performance in the Junior invitation Cup Final on Sunday Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday. The bare 11 for Cambridge University they played their part in a high scoring game with the sides sharing 8 goals, Lu Liu, Bernice Wood and Amanda Wainwright on target for 3 goals for the visitors. A hat-trick from Marie Stubbings taking her onto 21 goals for the season plus a goal each for Katie Luddy and Krissie Taylor seeing Fulbourn win the game 5-3 giving them an advantage in the quest for 4th spot in the table.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
Like Cambridge City Ladies Development, Wisbech Town Ladies were soon back in action after their Cup success on Friday. Less than 48 hours later Wisbech Town Ladies were at home to Cardea Ladies. Sophie Swinden closing in on 40 goals for the season scoring a brace to take her to 38. Wisbech winning the game 5-1, Chloe Stanborough, Amy Newell and Yasmin Holmes on her debut with the other goals.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
A full fixture list in the Championship South this Sunday. Leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies maintaining their 9 point lead at the top of the table with a big away win against Isleham United Ladies. Joeli Kirby well ahead in the goal scoring charts bagging herself another 4 goals to take her onto 40 goals for the season. There were hat-tricks too for Kayleigh Nolan and Abbi Griffin with Kayleigh Steed also on the scoresheet.
Like Wisbech, St Ives Town Ladies Development were also in action less than 48 hours after playing in the Division One Cup final the 2nd placed side looking to keep the pressure on Haverhill with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC got over there final disappointment creating some good opportunities to win the game 3-2 to maintain the 9 point gap with 3 games in hand.
A double header this Sunday between Park Ladies at home to Burwell Tigers Ladies, two 60 minute games played as they look to get their fixtures in. 6 points collected by Park taking them 6 points clear in fourth spot. The first game won 2-0 with Sherrie Martin scoring her 14th goal of the season and Francesca Plitsch finding the back of the net. The 2nd game won by 4 goals to 2, Sophie Fenner scoring a brace with 1st goals of the season for Victoria Brown and Charlotte Tweed.
East Bergholt United Ladies are the Champions of Suffolk for a 2nd successive season winning back to back titles. Not quite the way they would have wanted to as the 3 points were awarded after opponents Walsham Le Willow Ladies forfeited their game at the weekend. Nonetheless a fantastic achievement defending their title with a long winning streak losing just the once to 2nd placed Needham Market Women. The aim now to make it a back to back league and cup double as they look to defend the league Cup on Tues August 30th at Hadleigh FC against Needham Market Women.
Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on this season’s league title.
Needham Market Women newly formed this season pushing East Bergholt all the way to ensure they didn’t run away with things at the top of the table a runners-up finish confirmed and they are also in the finals of both the League Cup and County Cup two great games to look forwards too. This Sunday they were at home taking on another newcomer Brettvale Ladies who have improved as the season has gone on and things are looking positive for next season. This Sunday however they were soundly beaten by Needham Market who are way out in front in terms of goals this scored in the league 114 to date 5 of those added against Brettvale. Francesca Rainbird top scorer with another goal taking her tally to 29. Amber Sparks up to 20 for the season also on the scoresheet. Abbie Wilkinson, Jemma Wessels and Nicola Anderson also getting their name on the scoresheet.
Another new side this season enjoying a successful campaign are Woodbridge Town Ladies climb up to 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division table with a narrow 2-1 win at home against Alresford Colne Rangers. Goals for Kimberly Edwards and a 19th of the season for top scorer Jenna Liverpool securing the 3 points, strong in 2019 with just 2 defeats from 12 played. Jo Harvey scoring the goal for Alresford.
Leiston St Margarets Ladies are looking good now to secure a top half finish in the Suffolk Women’s Division as they like Woodbridge enjoy a strong 2nd half to the season again just 2 defeats from 10 played so far this calendar year. Were at home this Sunday taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies and despite Charlotte Archer scoring her 12th goal of the season for the visitors goals from Sarah Cooper and Justine Young saw Leiston St Margarets win the game 2-1.
Coplestonians Ladies were away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this Sunday and despite being short on numbers held a narrow lead at the break. A different story 2nd half as Coplestonians piled on the goals to win the 3 points with a 9-2 victory. Top sorer Abigail Eley scoring 4 of those goals taking her to 14 for the season. A hat-trick too for Sophie Maul with Chloe York an Lottie Aldous also getting a goal a piece.
Just a handful of fixtures left now in Norfolk Women’s Division One half the sides now completing their fixtures Thorpe United Ladies long ago crowned champions, a win from Gorleston Ladies would see them clinch runners-up spot in the league as they travelled to play bottom side Beccles Town Ladies on Sunday just a point behind 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies whose fixtures were done. Two games in hand for Gorleston they were 2 goals to the good at half-time, went on to add a further 2 in the 2nd period to win the game 4-1 and seal a 2nd place finish. Samantha Hunn scoring a brace with Sophie Gillett and Beth Turner both on target for a goal each. Lucy Robbens with the 2nd half goal for Beccles who despite a spirited finish bottom of the table following promotion last season. Haven’t had the luck with injuries throughout but still have a cup final to look forwards too.
Has been a difficult season too for Bungay Town Ladies double winners last season, got off to a terrible start this time around the squad taking a hit players missing, injuries, results picking up recently as new players start to find their feet bolster the existing squad end the campaign unbeaten in 3 winning two including their last game of the season at home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies the 3 points lifting them into the top half of the table. At home Bungay leading 2-0 at half-time went on to win the game 3-0. Selina Rowland scoring a brace there was a goal too for Morgan Devine.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
It was from Norfolk where this Sunday’s action came from Women’s Football East came from the top of Division Two a first opportunity to have a look at league leaders Taverham Women United’s young guns as they travelled to 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies knowing one more win would secure them the league title. Taverham with a very young side all U18 bar one making the step up from youth football often a big step Taverham drawing their opening game haven’t looked back losing just the one game and that only a month ago. Fakenham coming into the game hit by injuries and unavailability meaning they had just the bare 11.
Taverham were on the front foot from the off the game soon becoming a classic of attack versus defence, Fakenham with their backs to the wall battling hard deep in their half ans Taverham poured forwards. Teigan Robinson getting the break through breaking into the area o score from the rebound to put the visitors into the lead. Chloe Easter making some vital saves in the Fakenham goal. It was more of the same 2nd half Fakenham rarely in the Taverham half, digging in battling as opportunities came and went for Taverham to put the game to bed, denied by the post, Easter again their to save, late into the game Fakenham got forwards forcing a corner on the right a goal bound shot blocked by an arm the referee pointing to the spot a last gasp chance for Fakenham to rescue a point, captain Sian Sands to take now mistake her strike just about eluding Taverham goalkeeper Laura Beevor to find the back of the net and see the game end 1-1. The title remains in Taverham’s hands victory in their final game of the season away to Hockering will see them crowned champions in their first season in women’s football.
The battle for runners-up spot still very much alive with a 3 way tie on 37 points between 2nd placed Long Stratton Women and Fakenham Town Ladies pushed down to 4th on goal difference as Tavern Ladies nestle in between them in 3rd. A game in hand on Long Stratton too, Fakenham with 5 left to play having games in hand on both. Tavern were in action this Sunday on the East Coast taking on Gorleston Rangers Ladies. The Dereham based side scoring plenty of goals this season, none more so than Katie Hart-Copsey as she was on target once again at the weekend on fire scoring all 5 goals in the game to become the 2nd player (would have been the first but I started in Essex this week) in the East to rack up 50 goals for the season!
Freethorpe Ladies move up the Division Two table once again this Sunday winning at home against Thetford Town Ladies to slot into 5th place in the table. A big win too against a Thetford side once again struggling for numbers. Andrea Colbrook scoring a hat-trick in the game for Freethorpe. Keira Squires on target for a brace, there were goals too for Claire Garner, Robyn Steele and a first of the season for Michaela Stordy in an 8-0 victory.
At the other end of the Division One table it has been a long hard 1st season in women’s football for Bulldogs Ladies. Playing their final league game of the season this Sunday they ended on a high with a strong 2nd half shoeing against Horsford Women to claim victory for just the 2nd time this season. 2-1 up at half-time Bulldogs went on to add a further 6 goals without reply in the 2nd half to win the game 8-1. Emma Johnson scoring a hat-trick for Bulldogs. Also getting on the scoresheet were Stevie-Leigh Malkinson, Emily Hinsley, Sara-Jane Langford and Rachael Barrett with her 1st goal for Bulldogs. Lois Irving with the early first half goal for Horsford.
This season’s Essex Women’s Women’s League Cup Final will see Leigh Ramblers Ladies taking on Harlow Town Ladies Development for the trophy, two young upcoming sides both doing well in the Premier Division this season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies challenging for the title itself now into the final after overcoming fellow Premier Division side Southend United Ladies in the last 4 this weekend. A challenging draw to get t the final for Leigh Ramblers taking on sides 1st. 3rd, 5th and now 6th in the Premier Division. Kate Newton, top scorer for Leigh Ramblers this season netting a brace to see them win the game 2-0 taking her to 32 goals for the season. The League Cup Final taking place on Sunday 19th may at Runwell Sports FC.
Essex Women’s Division One
4 games played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday and Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies hold onto top spot for another week at least as 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies were beaten at home to 3rd placed Hutton Ladies Reserves on Sunday. A goal form Emily Wilton along with a 10th goal of the season for Baylie Kingsnorth enough to clinch the 3 points for the visitors winning the match 2-1 with Hollie Dimambro Bovington getting the goal for Billericay. The 3 points ensuring Hutton will continue to pressure runners-up spot right until the final day with 3 games left to play.
The other side that can chase down league leaders Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies are Rayleigh Town Ladies up to 4th now with 6 games still to play are 15 points back from top spot likely t be awarded several points due to opposition due to games called off are scoring plenty of goals this season. Notably Isabelle Wallings, scoring 4 at the weekend as they took on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves at home those goals pushing Wallings onto an incredible 50 goals for the season. Wasn’t the top scorer in the game however with Eleasha Reeves on target for 5 goals to take her own tally to 23 for the campaign. Also moving onto 23 goals for the season is Holly Gash with a goal plus 2 for Kristina Stavrinou her first goals for Rayleigh Town who ran out 12-0 winners. A big game to come with Rayleigh at home to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves in a fortnights time.
Belhus Ladies climb back up to 7th spot in the Essex Women’s Division One table winning at home to bottom side Island Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Aimee Hunt, Hayley Freeman and a first goal of the season for Paige Pervaill seeing them to a 3-1 win. Ebonnie Williams getting on the scoresheet for Island.
The points shared in the final match to bring you from Division One this Sunday with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves holding 5th placed FC Clacton Ladies to a 2-2 draw at home at the weekend. Clacton leading 1-0 at half-time Leigh Ramblers scoring twice in the 2nd half as they battled back to get a point. Stacy Bott from the penalty spot and Emily Hamlin scoring for Leigh Ramblers. Charlotte Warren scoring for Clacton her 13th strike of the season with Lucy-May Cushway also getting a goal her first for Clacton in just her 3rd appearance.
Tiptree &District Charity Cup
Chelmsford City Ladies were at home to Frontiers Ladies in the semi-final of the Tiptree & District Charity Cup this Sunday. Two early goals for the visitors doing the damage seeing Frontiers reach the final. Anna Freeman and Jill Bartholomew with the goals to secure a 2-0 victory.
Semi-final weekend for the ERWFL League Cup down t the last 4 sides vying for a place in the final on Sunday 12th May. Cambridge City Ladies looking to make it a league and cup double the Premier Division Champions were at home to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies. Goals from top scorer Erin Davies, Bronte Rapley plus and own goal sealing a 3-1 victory for Cambridge City to see them into their 2nd ERWFL League Cup final in 3 seasons. Harlow not happy with some referring decisions scoring through Hannah Smith her debut goal for the 1st team after impressing and scoring plenty of goals for their Development side this season.
Injuries and player unavailability affecting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies towards the end of the season, despite that have done well to reach the last 4 of the League Cup, drawn at home to play Bedford Ladies. The game officiated by Norwegian referees guests of Cambridgeshire FA this week. A close game in the finish with the game with goals from Amy Magnus and Jasmine Ajayi seeing Bedford through the the final courtesy of a 2-1 victory.
ERWFL League Plate
Also a semi-final played too this Sunday in the ERWFL’s League Plate competition. Stevenage Ladies Reserves at home taking on Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side taking an 18th minute lead a corner returned into the area met by Katie Seagrave her header beating the keeper from close range to make it 1-0. Stevenage quick to reply level just 4 minutes later breaking with Histon appealing for a foul up the other end, Sherrie Evans getting the goal to make it 1-1. All square the game remained heading into extra-time. Histon winning the game in the 1st period of extra play, Kaya Haq scoring a superb goal from a 25 yard free kick sending a curled ball high to drop into the back of the net to send Histon into the League Plate final. Their opponents with be either Newmarket Town Ladies or Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who met in the league this Sunday setting their semi-final up nicely.
ERWFL Premier Division
Royston Town Ladies returned to winning ways this Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division as they look to secure the runners-up spot in the league. The 2nd placed side at home to Haringey Borough Women. Royston taking the lead from the penalty spot Jo Rutherford making it 1-0, added a 2nd to double the lead with Eva Ramsey scoring from out wide to make it 3-0 Haringey puling a goal back before the break their keeper making some important saves to limit Royston to 3 goals. Francesca Smithers returning to action for Royston on target to bring up their 4th goal, Rutherford lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick to bring up her 19th goal of the season and see Royston win the game 5-1.
Royston Town Ladies, Jo Rutherford
A home win too for Colney Heath Ladies against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday, goals from Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend-Brown securing a 2-0 victory the 3 points lifting Colney Heath over the Essex side into 8th position in the Premier Division.
ERWFL Division One
With ERWFL Division One leaders St Ives Town Ladies not in action this weekend it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to close the gap down to just 3 points in preparation for the two sides meeting this coming Sunday. A tough local derby this weekend away to fellow Essex side Hutton Ladies. Bowers & Pitsea in good form however unlucky in 13 games in the league a single goal winning a tough battle between the sides Sophie Dowman’s 14th goal of the season extending the run to 14. A trip to St Ives now where they will be looking to end the league leaders unbeaten record.
2-2 when the sides last met in the league Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in Division One were away 5th placed Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Goals from Rosy Wodhams and Becky Scola seeing Hoddesdon into a 2-1 lead with 25 minutes left Newmarket then reduced 10 with goalkeeper Dominika Szary sent off being adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area. Yasmin Woodfield donning the keepers gloves Newmarket having scored through Annabel Cuthbert kept battling getting themselves back on level terms Cuthbert with her 10th goal of the season, the visitors dramatically winning the game with seconds left on the clock Cuthbert lobbing the keeper to complete her hat-trick. The two sides meeting at Newmarket this coming Sunday in the League Plate semi-finals haven’t yet seen both this season and this is where I shall be.
A big win for King’s Lynn Town Ladies at home this Sunday as they continue to build momentum going into the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final in just a fortnights time. This Sunday they were playing at The Walks home of King’s Lynn Town FC, taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies. A strong first half performance seeing King’s Lynn leading 7-0 with hat-tricks for both Oksana Imanalijeva and Tiffany Forshaw along with a goal for Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse. A further two goals added in the 2nd half with Becky Russell scoring and Imanalijeva getting a 4th to her name. The win taking King’s Lynn into 7th and in a great position to challenge for a top half finish.
Lawford Ladies were at home this Sunday in ERWFL Division One taking on bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies. The hosts winning the game 3-1 thanks to goals from Stacey Teager, Jodie Sharp and a 1st of the season for Claire Gauntlett. Again like King’s Lynn well placed to push on up the table in their final 4 matches. Poppy Kelly scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford.
Not one but two champions crowned this Sunday in the FAWNL, 3 in fact cause I’ll get wrong if I don’t mention Burnley FC Women who were also title winners at the weekend winning the Division One North title. Over to the FAWNL covered by Women’s Football East Coventry United Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies got the wins they needed to become champions of the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One respectfully.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Starting with the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, they have been amongst the title challengers for a number of season’s now and at last Coventry United Ladies are there top of the pile can’t be caught despite the late threat posed by Cardiff City Ladies racing up the table into 2nd spot. Just the one defeat in the league for Coventry a 10 point lead going into Sunday’s game at home to Cardiff with the reverse fixture to come as games in hand for the Welsh side, Coventry were in pole position knowing the win would secure the title. An early goal from Jade Brook scoring in the 7th minute putting Coventry into the lead. Cardiff levelling the scores 10 minutes later with Kylie Nolan finding the back of the net to make it 1-1. Coventry retaking the lead in 27th minute Amy Wathan heading home a Brook cross. A narrow advantage at the break so it remained for all of the 2nd half until Wathan struck again in injury time to giving Coventry some breathing room that dispelled a minute further into stoppage time with Marie Gauntlett scoring a wonder goal to see the game won 4-1 and the celebrations commence.
Champions! (picture credit Jeff Bennett)
Many congratulations to Coventry United Ladies on their title success, FAWNL Southern Premier Division Champions.
Defeat for Cardiff ending their own slim title hopes they slip back to 3rd with Chichester City Ladies winning at home on Sunday to return to 2nd. Were taking on Watford Ladies. A single goal enough to win Chichester the 3 points their 14th win of the campaign. The goal coming late in the 1st half with Lauren Cheshire scoring from the penalty spot.
A lat winner saw 4th placed Oxford United Women clinch the 3 points at home to Portsmouth FC Women this Sunday in the Southern Premier Division. Goalless after the 1st 45 minutes Oxford going on to open the scoring early in the 2nd half, Georgia Timms fouled inside the box stepping up to score from the resulting penalty kick to make it 1-0. Katie James firing home from a free-kick giving the keeper no chance to make it 1-1 in the 56th minute. Into the closing minute the scores still locked at 1-1 a ball played into the box from wide met perfectly by Emily Allen to volley home inside the six yard box to make it 2-1 and win the game for Oxford with her 17th goal of the season.
Less than 48 hours after winning the County Cup in Devon, Plymouth Argyle Ladies up in the Midlands to play Loughborough Foxes Women in the league. Plymouth looking to continue their recent good form unbeaten in their last four in the Southern Premier Division, back to back wins looking for a 3rd Natasha Knapman firing them into the lead on 30 minutes. Loughborough with a quick reply Rebecca Knight equalising 3 minutes later. Level at the break Helen Bleazard scoring a minute after the restart to put Plymouth back into the lead. Jessie Charlotte Cooper pulling it back to 3-2 for Loughborough with 12 minutes left to play Jones adding her 2nd of the match sealing the win for Plymouth in the final minute 4-2.
Finally in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday it was a contest between the bottom two with Queens Park Rangers Women hosting C&K Basildon Ladies. both still without a win in the league going into the match. C&K Basildon taking an early lead 1-0 up inside 2 minutes Holly Turner capitalising on a defensive error to score. QPR getting the equalising goal late in the 1st half with Jo Wilson rounding the keeper in the 37th minute to make it 1-1 at half-time. The hosts taking the lead early in the 2nd half a 2nd of the game for Wilson firing home a long range effort. Wilson going on to complete her hat-trick with less than 20 minutes to go. The final score 4-1 with Sue Kumaning getting her name on the scoresheet. Finally a win for QPR. Basildon relegated to South East Division One have endured a difficult season, the club knowing it would be a struggle coming together, the squad growing in adversity battling week in week out.
FAWNL South East Division One
One win needed too for Crawley Wasps Ladies in South East Division One to win successive promotions, champions and fully deserved have lead the way from start to finish a 100% winning record long held. Tipped for the title by everyone I spoke including fellow clubs in South East Division One brief visitors on their way to the Southern Premier Division. Billericay Town Ladies briefly putting the celebration on hold the Essex club in 2nd beating Crawly for the 1st time in the FAWNL, they were here again at home knowing victory would see them finish champions, were taking on Enfield Town Ladies who have enjoyed a strong season themselves and were holding Crawley to a goalless scoreline going into the final 10 minutes, the winning goal finally coming in the 83rd minute a great pass from Naomi Cole sending Kemina Webber through into the box to send the ball into the back of the net and win the game.
Congratulations to Crawly Wasps Ladies on winning FAWNL South East Division One.
Billericay Town Ladies finish runners-up in FAWNL South East Division One like Crawley making their FAWNL bow this season the Essex club recruiting well for life playing at a higher level neck and neck with Crawley early on. Kin Coster’s side were at home this Sunday taking on Cambridge United WFC in good form recently themselves. Drawing 1-1 at the half-time interval Billericay found the winning goal 2nd half to win the game 2-1 to secure the 3 points to guarantee 2nd spot. Danica Dougal and Zoe Rushen with the goals. Next up the Essex Women’s County Cup final this Thursday against C&K Basildon Ladies at Bowers & Pitsea FC. Cambridge’s goal scored by Mollie Coupar who moves ahead as top scorer with 12 goals for the season.
A dramatic match between 3rd and 4th in the South East Division One table with Actonians Lades hosting Leyton Orient WFC. An early lead for the visiting side with Danielle Griffiths putting them 1-0 up in the 5th minute from the penalty spot. Actonians straight back into it Carla Williams with the goal to make it 1-1 a minute later. Actonians going on to take the lead in the 34th minute with Williams on target for her 2nd of the game. A late save from Paige Horsnell keeping it at 2-1 at half-time. Actonians striking the crossbar early in the 2nd period Leyton Orient coming back to make it 2-2 with 55 minutes played Valeria Moreno with the goal. 4 minutes later the visitors were in the lead Sophie Le Marchand scoring to make it 3-2. Just 3 minutes left on the clock and Actonians came back to level it a 3-3 to see the points shared, Alessandra Barreca netting for the 25th time this season.
A fantastic start for Ipswich Town Women at home to Stevenage Ladies with Natasha Thomas scoring against the Hertfordshire side in the opening minute. Stevenage getting back into the game responding well coming back to level in the 21st minute Ellie Searle with the goal to make it 1-1. Level at the break the visitors were awarded a penalty within a minute of the restart, Erin Pope converting from the spot to make it 2-1. Ipswich found themselves down to 10 on the hour with Jordan Arnoup sent off. Despite that Ipswich pushed for a goal levelling the game with 5 minutes to go Lindsey Cooper scoring to rescue a point.
Hope yet for Luton Town Ladies at the bottom of the league as they win for just the 3rd time this season to close the gap to 2nd bottom Denham United Ladies to 3 points with a game in hand and superior goal difference. At home this Sunday were taking on Norwich City Ladies. Goals from Rachel Kosky and Remi Bains seeing Luton holding a 2-0 lead at half-time. Norwich reducing the deficit with 20 minutes to play, Kathryn Stanley scoring from out wide. Luton defending held out to clinch the win and claim 3 vital points.
A return to league action this afternoon on Women’s Football East a short trip today to Clipbush Park to watch a crucial top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division Two leaders Taverham Women United one win away from clinching the title in their debut season away to Fakenham Town Ladies in 3rd whose own title hopes rest on winning the 3 points themselves.
Due to be played back in December had it on the radar but the weather put pay to that outing, the rearranged fixture falling just right, both sides starting the season well under contrasting circumstances. Fakenham Town Ladies relegated from Division One looking to regroup and rebuild confidence within their squad. Taverham Women one of a cluster of youth sides making the big step up to women’s football this season.
The two clubs neck and neck at the top of the table in the early stages of the season, both unbeaten Fakenham winning their opening 8 matches before the two sides met at Taverham in December, Taverham ending Fakenham’s 100% winning start in a close match winning 1-0. Since then Fakenham have fallen behind with fixtures hit by postponements and call offs have 6 games left to play. Injury and unavailable players affecting them too in the run in, 4 games in hand on Taverham down to 3rd now after a 2nd defeat of the season against Long Stratton Women in 2nd know they can’t afford to lose today if they want to finish top of the pile.
Taverham making the step up into women’s football this season has seen several sides struggle to adapt recently, not in their case however their young squad all under 18 bar one Rebecca Sutton who is 18 hitting the ground running a 0-0 draw on the opening day went on to win their next 13 league matches before suffering their first and only defeat of the season to an in form Tavern Ladies side last month. An important 3-0 away win in midweek against Long Stratton Women sees them 12 points clear at the top knowing a win against Fakenham will see them clinch the league title.
Taverham have a small close knit squad 16 players, manager Kevin Robinson with the squad since they were playing at U10 level, with 5 of that team still with the current group. Well supported by joint manager Bill Artis along with all the parents that make it a real family unit. Have scored an incredible 123 goals so far this season with Rebecca Sutton and Abbie Walker sharing 66 goals between them. Learning every game and with some strong sides in the league a credit to be where they are with two games left to play.
Clipbush Park the venue this afternoon the ladies side sharing the main pitch with the mens side. A bar also serving tea and coffee along with hot food upon entry leading out onto the pitch a large surface plenty of width fitness levels need to be sharp. A seat stand along the opposite side of the pitch, a few dark clouds around a few spots of rain in the are sunny but chilly, took advantage of the cover just in case.
Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Ellie Websdale, Karina Townsend, Jemma Riches, Sian Sands (C), Jennifer Codman, Holly Davies, Megan Spurrell, Tash Patten, Tara Betts & Sam King
Taverham Women United starting XI – Laura Beevor, Lucy Staff, Caitlyn Arnup, Jasmin Snelling, Hannah Artis (C), Summer Rogers, Rebecca Sutton, Maya Lawlor, Abbie Walker, Charlotte Hurren & Teigan Robinson. Subs – Laura Jones
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Just the bare 11 available for Fakenham with players out injured or unavailable, Taverham naming just the one substitute. Fakenham to kick-off the 1st half wearing amber shirts with black upon the sleeves, black shorts and socks. Taverham kitted out in white shirts with blue trim, blue shirts and white socks. The ball pressed straight away in the middle pops wide for Megan Spurrell to bring on down the right support inside from Holly Davies her diagonal pass driven into Jennifer Codman getting forwards to the top of the area she knocks the ball on into the box, the Taverham defence able to let it run out for a goal kick.
Fakenham striker Sam King with the ball
Taverham attack down their right the ball put on for Charlotte Hurren her cross swept into the area headed clear by Jemma Riches for Fakenham. Taverham pressing the ball high up the pitch a ball knocked forwards into the area, goalkeeper Chloe Easter trying to let it run out for a goalkick Teigan Robinson giving chase managing to win her side a corner, a good delivery in from the left towards the far post Karina Townsend getting it away for Fakenham. A positive start from Taverham very much on the front foot getting players forwards rapidly a throw high on the right Robinson crossing inside the box deflected out to the top of the area a shot drilled back in runs low wide of goal.
Fakenham look to make ground on the left wing Tara Betts playing the ball on for Sam King, Jasmin Snelling putting the foot in to win the ball back for Taverham. Taverham full of energy pressing the ball ready to attack at will Fakenham pushed back into their box defending a two v two situation opening up as Taverham counter attack Sutton with the ball at her feet carrying it forwards left Robinson central tries to lift the ball into the box for her but too much on the ball Easter can let it go for a goal kick. Fakenham captain Sian Sands in the heart of the defence getting across to win the ball put it out for a throw in as Abbie Walker attempts to hook the ball on for Sutton down the flank.
Sian Sands winning the ball for Fakenham Town Ladies
Summer Rogers nipping in to rob the ball from the Fakenham defence 25 yards out pushes it into Sutton inside the area, can’t get it out from her feet and turn to shoot before being closed down. Taverham continue to press the attack a through ball threaded in behind sees Sutton clear on Chloe Easter coming to close her down making a great blocking save at her feet to push the ball away for a throw. The Fakenham defence putting themselves under pressure trying to play it out from the back with the Taverham attackers lively.
Taverham captain, Hannah Artis
Taverham captain Hannah Artis receiving the ball from a throw on the right plays a cross long into the area Sands getting her head on it to put it behind for a corner. The ball in from the left defended near post another corner this delivery dropping into the six yard box Maya Lawlor getting her head to it stooping a deflection knocking it wide.The attack Taverham’s early on Fakenham working hard to defend not creating anything up the other end. Walker and Hurren switch flanks. Lucy Staff stopping Spurrell as she tries to get in to cross wide right.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Megan Spurrell
A handball spotted in midfield a free-kick top of the circle for Taverham, Snelling to take a great ball played in towards the top of the area, Rogers meeting it twisting her neck to head the ball goalwards her attempt bouncing wide of the right post. Fakenham busy in defence, Townsend sliding in gets the ball from Walker as she races forwards on the right. Ellie Websdale holding Hurren up on the left as Spurrell gets back to help her out. Robinson clipped as she drives forwards centrally a free-kick awarded 20 yards out Sutton over it gets a shot in past the walk, Easter gloving it down her defence back following it in getting it away Taverham collecting it a shot from 25 yards out racing wide across goal.
Abbie Walker holding the ball up for Taverham
Taverham win a throw high on the left played quickly into Sutton she turns taking the ball on into the area level with the six yard box gets her foot over the ball to hit a shot in the ball bouncing wide across the face of goal. Taverham make a change Hurren the player coming off on comes Laura Jones. Fakenham with a rare attack Spurrell with the ball n the right played inside to King coming across to make herself available, Caitlyn Arnup on her shoulder the pair battling inside the area the defender winning the tackle, play brought back however for a foul on the edge of the area. Patten over it tries to lift a shot in near post the attempt off target.
Megan Spurrell with Taverham’s Laura Jones
Rogers latching onto the ball 20 yards out after Fakenham fail to clear sends her strike over the crossbar. Fakenham with a free-kick out wide on the right Patten to play it in towards the top of the box King up knocks it down into her feet is quickly closed down by the Taverham defence can’t get a shot away. Fakenham seeing a little more of the ball in the latter stages of the 1st half having soaked up alot of pressure. Robinson looking a constant threat in attack for Taverham attacks right cutting into the area Riches with a great tackle to deny her.
GOAL! The pressure from Taverham in attack finally bringing them a goal late in the 1st half, up the pitch on the right a throw won the ball put inside to Robinson she turns carrying the ball into the box the angle tight six yards out blasts a shot in Sands defending getting a leg out to block the rebound however falls straight to Robinson her 2nd attempt played past the defender across goal into the bottom corner 0-1.
Teigan Robinson scores the opening goal
A chance to double the lead straight away the ball won by Rogers put on for Walker in behind right side one on one with the keeper attempts to lift the ball over her succeeds but her effort drops wide of the mark. Artis winning most of the aerial balls Fakenham try to put on through the middle. King with the ball at her feet willing to take players on, the Taverham defence proving very difficult to shake off.
Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 0-1 Taverham United Women
Half-time, Taverham leading 1-0 a narrow advantage for all their attacking player have shown plenty of energy and positively getting numbers forwards in attack have had their opponents on the back foot for the entire 1st half. Just the one goal to show for it however the game far from settled a 2nd goal most definitely needed, Fakenham have battled hard in defence to keep Taverham at bay whilst creating very little in attack themselves.
Taverham to get the 2nd half underway a change made Hurren back on Robinson off. Get forwards right from the off Lawlor played through into the box on the right blasts a shot in towards the near post Easter with a fantastic save to push the ball behind for a corner kick. The ball delivered into the box Fakenham just about deal with it knocked outside the area a shot back in well wide. Taverham starting the 2nd half off where they left the 1st have Fakenham penned inside their own 18 yard box.
The pressure relieved as Fakenham are awarded a free-kick 40 yards out from goal, Sands to play it in towards the top of the area, Artis sticking out a leg to stop it. Sutton carrying the ball on down the right Sands across tackling well to deny her the opportunity to cross. Websdale winning the ball at right back for Fakenham on for Codman in the middle, Davies making a run ahead of her, Rogers sliding in to intercept the pass. King attacking on the ball left comes inside Arnup on her shoulder pushes her across the top of the area checking back King lifts a cross into the box headed clear falls straight to Codman a good 35 yards out takes on the shot the strike safely claimed by Beevor in the Taverham goal.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Holly Davies
Taverham full of running first to most balls, Spurrell on the right for Fakenham up ended a free-kick played in central, Arnup in ahead of King, Taverham counter Sutton wide playing the ball inside right looking for Sutton, Riches with a timely interception. Taverham come again on the right Walker on the ball taking players on getting into the box lays it inside for Lawlor to take on towards goal shoots looking to play the ball across the keeper from where I’m standing it looks in all the way right behind it, but for Easter a great piece of glove work getting down to palm it wide.
Jemma Riches on the ball for Fakenham Town Ladies
Taverham bring Robinson back on for Jones. Spurrell plays the ball on for Davies right in behind the full back too much on the pass allows Artis to get across and clear. Townsend with a great tackle to deny Robinson as she turns inside towards the top right corner of the area before she can line up a shot. Remains 1-0 for all their possession and attacking play Taverham haven’t put the game to bed Fakenham continue to battle hard have very little of the attack but one chance taken changes everything. Hurren with a dangerous run in from the left flashes a cross along the top of the area a shot taken the Fakenham defence throwing bodies in to block.
Walker coming inside from the right up against Townsend and Riches squeezes a ball between the pair on for Robinson in behind spins into the shot 8 yards out her strike running wide across the six yard box. Close again from Taverham the base of the post denying them a 2nd goal a cross put in low from the left met at the near post by Walker inside the six yard box. Taverham have a a small but passionate group of supporters vocal encouraging them on. Walker a threat on the wing cuts into the area right six yards out the ball pushed on for Lawlor she shoots, Easter getting across to cover her near post saving brilliantly again the ball behind for corner.
Eyes on the ball Jennifer Codman looking to win the header
The corner played in long to the far post Robinson under it lifts a shot up over the bar. Taverham regain possession high up the pitch Fakenham struggling to get out of their own half a corner won on the right the delivery in central headed up onto the roof of the net, that 2nd goal won’t come. Codman is down for Fakenham struggling with an injury having taken a knock has to come off for treatment with no substitute to bring on are down to 10. Townsend too taking a blow down but can continue. Hurren an excellent dribbler of the ball at speed bombs forwards into the box on the left closing in on the byline checks back attempts to lift the ball in across the face of goal, no one to meet it runs wide. Codman is back on Fakenham back up to their full compliment.
Caitlyn Arnup
Davies is upended as she tries to bring the ball on up the right for Fakenham, the ball played on down the line quickly King after it, gets a cross into the area no one gambling however, Taverham bring it out from the back lost however deflected into Spurrell’s feet she lifts a shot back in from distance, Beevor safely gathering. A rapid attack launched the ball helped on through to Sutton wins a corner on the left as Websdale comes to close her down. The delivery in central headed away by Sands for a 2nd corner. This time the ball lands at Walkers feet six yards out a snap shot cleared on the line put out to the left players attracted to the ball the cross in over them all, Townsend doing a good job in front of goal to get the ball away before it can be attacked.
Taverham’s Charlotte Hurren
Taverham continue to attack another corner won on the right, have played in some great deliveries again to the far post Robinson meeting it her attempt blocked on the post. Into stoppage time Fakenham get on down the right Spurrell with King combining wining a throw put on down the line for King she does well to win a corner. The ball played in central a shot driven in towards the back post blocked on the line, hand ball! The referee pointing to the spot late drama PENALTY!
GOAL! Fakenham captain Sian Sands placing the ball on the spot. The whistle blows a confident hit lifting the ball to the right pace on the ball Beevor gets a touch throwing herself in that direction but not enough to keep it out Fakenham level at the death 1-1.
Sian Sands scores from the spot in the closing moments of the game
That’s it not time for Taverham to find a response robbed of the 3 points needed to win the title in the closing seconds of the game, Fakenham ecstatic having battled so hard all game to take a point from the match.
Full time Fakenham Town Ladies 1-1 Taverham United Women
That was most definitely a game off attack versus defence Taverham on the front foot right from the off getting forwards in numbers pressing the ball high and keeping a high level of energy throughout, taking the lead late in the first half had numerous chances in the 2nd half to put the game to bed but none were taken. Fakenham battling hard with the bare 11 players out of position defending battling and working hard to keep Taverham at bay, Easter pulling off some fantastic saves. At 1-0 they were never out of the game and in the end that cost Taverham all 3 points with a late penalty conceded and dispatched.
Fakenham keep there title hopes alive for now but a win for Taverham in their final game of the season will be enough to see them win the league away to Hockering. This point meant alot however to Fakenham and they can use it to spur them on for their remaining 4 games, promotion still not guaranteed some important games still to come.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, certainly a tough one to narrow it down to one but I’ll do my best. Abbie Walker a real threat on either wing for Taverham getting forwards and creating opportunities for herself and others in front of goal, Summer Rogers in the middle put in some good tackles was the player more often than not keeping Fakenham penned back in their own half. For Fakenham it was a battling display back to the walls with the bare 11 but credit to them especially the back for and Chloe Easter in goal making some great saves. Have chosen Sian Sands a captains performance at the heart of defence and of course the scorer of the all important penalty.
Good to see both sides in action especially Taverham my first look at them having done enough positive reports in The Round-Up all season, appreciate the help form both teams this afternoon.
St Ives Town Ladies Development v Wisbech Town Ladies
Back to the road for a successive night heading into Cambridgeshire for the 2nd of this weeks Cup Final, this evening at Ely City FC for this season’s Women’s Division Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies.
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition into it’s 2nd season. Histon Ladies Reserves beating Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to lift the trophy last season. The competition as the name suggests for the sides playing in the leagues below the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Championships, North & South. 12 sides split between the two divisions, this evenings finalists both 2nd in their respective league and both very much in the battle for top spot itself.
St Ives Town Ladies Development reaching a cup final just two seasons after being formed. Their 1st team leading the way unbeaten still in their first season playing regional football, St Ives is rapidly becoming a rising force in the woman’s game in Cambridgeshire. Play in the Championship South currently 2nd in the table some 9 point behind leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies but have 3 games in hand and have to play Haverhill once more in their run in. Jade Carpenter St Ives top scorer with 15 goals so far this season.
Wisbech Town Ladies play in the Championship North where the title race looks certain to go all the way two with them having been neck and neck with current leaders Ketton Ladies all season both way out in front with 100% winning records Ketton beating Wisbech Town the first time they met in the league are now 6 points clear at the top. Wisbech having played a game less however and their being two huge games away to Ketton to come. A successful season in the cups too so far reaching the semi-finals of both the Invitation Cup and League Cup. going one better in the Division One Cup to reach the final. Have a potent attack with Sophie Swinden top scorer rapidly closing in a 40 goals for the season.
Road to the Final
Both sides at home for the 1st Round of the Division One Cup, St Ives were drawn up against Championship South title rivals Haverhill Rovers Ladies, a brace from Frances Chapman along with a goal for Penelope Ford seeing them edge the win 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Wisbech taking on Championship South side Park Ladies. Rachael Simpson and Chelsea King getting a goal a piece along with a brace for Sophie Swinden seeing them comfortably through to the quarter finals 4-0.
Onto the quarter finals both drawn away from home St Ives taking on Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies win through to the last 4 of the competition with a 3-0 win the goals coming from Jade Carpenter, Georgia Rebane and Emilee Steel. Wisbech racking up a big score away to fellow Championship North side Cardea Ladies. Captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a hat-trick with Sophie Swinden and Chloe Stanborough both bagging a brace each Aisling Ryan also finding the back of the net in a 9-2 win.
A blustery day greeted the semi-finals of the Division One Cup both games switched to 3G, St Ives at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies a 3-1 win securing them a place in their first ever final. Was there to watch the other semi-final a very cold and windy afternoon as Wisbech took on Championship North title rivals Ketton Ladies ,getting the better of the conditions Wisbech blew their opponents away Sophie Swinden scoring a hat-trick with a brace from Chloe Stanborough and one from Amy Newell to see them book their spot in the final courtesy of a 6-0 win.
This evenings final played at Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium, nestled behind the new cinema and restaurant leisure park recently built on the outskirts of Ely just off the A10. A elevated seat stand overlooking the pitch on one side the bar situated underneath. Another well used pitch a good size numbers building before kick-off. The weather dry but cloudy with a possible shower and getting chilly as the light start to come on before kick-off.
A special mention too for this evenings match officials the all female line-up from Norway part of a NORCORE the Norwegian Centre of Referring Excellence over in England on a 6 day training camp officiating in a number of fixtures across the county this week, Ane Kliskar refereeing, assisting on the lines, Ram Eirik Glomseth & Himmett Boyar with Kristina Lokke the fourth official.
St Ives Town Ladies Development starting XI – Sophie Majoram, Steph Ransome, Connie Liddiard, Georgie Astley (C), Leah Culpin, Molly Berryman, Sophie Crook, Penelope Ford, Fran Worrall, Jade Carpenter & Kirsty Wicks. Subs – Ellen Chapman, Cherish Sibanda, Caitlin McGeown, Ellie Hathirimani & Emilee Steel.
Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Rachael Simpson, Chelsea King, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Abbie Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Jasmine Luckett, Faye Kowalewsky, Amy Newell & Sophie Swinden. Subs – Jade-Amber Court, Elizabeth Hodgson & Naomi Lyon.
(roll no roll off substitutes)
Pre match handshakes
St Ives to get the Division One Cup Final underway, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball pressed in midfield straight from the off deflected out for a throw-in. Fran Worrall for St Ives with the first meaningful attack a driving run with the ball up the left flank Wisbech defending to concede a throw high up the pitch.
Wisbech get on the ball in the middle play out to the left Jasmine Luckett combining with striker Sophie Swinden as she comes across to make herself available, Penelope Ford coming back to support full back Steph Ransome putting in the tackle to regain possession as Swinden tries to get infield. The ball played into midfield Sophie Cook playing it forwards Jade Carpenter nodding it on in behind into the box, Wisbech goalkeeper Rachael Simpson gathering the ball.
A cagey opening neither side settling early on passes rushed a little disjointed, Powell getting forwards playing a diagonal ball into the Wisbech area, Katie Garner winning the header. On the right St Ives get forwards Ford up to Carpenter plays it inside looking for Kirsty Wicks, Leah Hall intercepting and clearing for Wisbech, Sophie Swinden after the ball good hold up play moving left as Luckett and Chloe Stanborough get forwards in support, Molly Berryman cutting out the intended pass. Stanborough staying high up the pitch has the ball played into her 25 yards out left of the D takes on the early shot the ball running along the ground heading wide of the far post claimed by St Ives goalkeeper, Sophie Marjoram.
Amy Newell picking up the ball in midfield 35 yards out has time on the ball line’s up a shot on target Marjoram right behind it a comfortable height to pull down out of the air. Kaylie Swinden charging down a shot from Wicks 25 yards out for St Ives the ball fired into her feet dug out before smashing it against the defender. A great chance for Wisbech to open the scoring Stanborough with a fantastic pass releasing Sophie Swinden in behind beating the offside trap to carry the ball on into the area left of goal one on one with the keeper closing Marjoram down Swinden pulls her strike wide of the near post from 8 yards out.
Pressure from Wisbech’s Sophie Swinden chasing the ball down into the left channel winning a corner, the ball payed in near post defended, Swinden preventing St Ives mounting a counter top of the area can’t get the ball out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down bu Leah Culpin.
GOAL! Closing in on the half hour and the dead lock is broken the opening goal going to Wisbech, pressing the ball in the final third Stanborough picking it up 25 yards out left of the D does really well to keep possession St Ives not getting in a meaningful tackle as she manages to force her way into the box and wrap her foot around the ball to shoot, Marjoram throwing her gloves up to push the ball away sending it across goal, Wisbech captain Faye Kowalewsky in behind following the shot in getting her head on the ball to push it into the empty net 0-1.
Marjoram out towards the edge of her area to close down the angle as Sophie Swinden gets away on the right gets something on the shot as she goes to ground the sting taken out of the shot Culpin back with captain Georgie Astley to clear the ball. Wisbech settled now work the ball forwards well Hall with Luckett and Stanborough ahead of her. Berryman cutting the pass towards the box out. Worrall out wide left takes the ball on for St Ives looks to turn inside drive on into the area, 3 Wisbech defenders converge to win the ball.
Powell inside to Astley the ball lifted forwards, Carpenter getting in behind into the box, Simpson off her line out to claim the ball before the striker can attack it. A throw left for Wisbech Luckett sending a cross in along the of the area Berryman sticking a leg out to clear, runs straight to Stanborough she sends it back into the area again Berryman with the clearance. Carpenter flagged offside as Cook bringing the ball on through the middle for St Ives looks to play her in.
Changes for both sides, Emilee Steel on for St Ives replacing Wicks, Caitlin McGeown on for Ford. Jade-Amber Court on for Wisbech replacing Sommerville. Culpin defends for St Ives as Hall lays the pass forwards for Sophie Swinden to chase on the left. Wisbech get clear on the left Sophie Swinden lively in attack players getting forwards the ball crossed in along the top of the six yard box through to Stanborough free at the far post gets her foot around the ball to smash a shot back in strikes the top of the upright, the ball dropping back down into the area St Ives scramble it away.
A free-kick wide right for St Ives, Culpin on it over halfway a great all dropping onto the penalty spot a fantastic run from Worrall to get on the end of it in between the Wisbech defence her header sent over the bar. Culpin winning the ball at the back for St Ives off Sophie Swinden plays it forwards up to Carpenter back to goal 25 yards out chest it down, Steel making the run for her to her left she attempts the back heel to play her in a timely foot stabbed out from the Wisbech defence halting the move. Into the last 5 minutes of the first half Wisbech creating the better opportunities quicker to the ball breaking up St Ives attacks before they can begin.
A free-kick won wide on the right for Wisbech the ball played in towards the near post area, Marjoram coming for it under challenge does well to glove it down then snatch it into her body on the deck. Carpenter does well holding the ball up in the right corner before lifting a cross into the area attacked far post by Worrall, Court on her shoulder doing enough to put her off allowing Simpson to gather the ball. Newell playing the ball on for King 20 yards out, Culpin sliding in to win the tackle.
St Ives Town Ladies, Fran Worrall (picture credit Gary Reed)
Into stoppage time a free-kick high on the left for St Ives defended by Garner inside the box for Wisbech they launch a counter attack Stanborough onto King sent onto Sophie Swinden peeling away left her diagonal ball played high into the area Kowalewsky her intended target the past too strong runs out of play.
Half-time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies
Wisbech looking comfortable for their lead at half-time but at just 1-0 still all to play for. St Ives frustrated didn’t settle can happen in a final, the game scrappy especially in the early stage no one settling on the ball, Wisbech creating some great chances getting their noses in front could and probably should be leading 3-0 but not taken St Ives have the chance to regroup at half-time find away to get back into the game, haven’t found a fluidity to their attacking play to trouble the Wisbech defence yet.
Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway a substitution made, Naomi Lyon on for Luckett. St Ives pressing the ball get it forwards Simpson with an early touch in the Wisbech goal. Hall getting forwards on the left for Wisbech the ball on for Swinden to chase in behind, Marjoram quickly off her line to the edge of her area to claim the ball. Astley winning the defensive header for St Ives at the back Stanborough looks to play in Sophie Swinden the ball left with Liddiard for St Ives her cross lifted into the area headed back out of the area by Garner.
St Ives Town Ladies, Sophie Cook (picture credit Gary Reed)
St Ives make a change bringing of Berryman on comes Cherish Sibanda. Wisbech starting the 2nd half where they left off the first pressing the ball high up the pitch preventing St Ives from getting forwards. Wisbech coming left, Kowalewsky drifting into a central position meets the cross with the the outside of her boot looking to lift a high looping ball in towards goal, falls wide of the mark. Marjoram across to cover her near post down to smother the ball as it is fired in from the left. Wisbech prevent St Ives breaking, turn play around and win a corner on the right. Worrall back the defend winning the ball inside the box. Cook comes off for St Ives on in her place Ellie Chapman.
Worrall getting forwards in attack down the left keeps possession wants support, none available turns inside to beat her marker and send a cross into the area, Simpson coming out towards the ball claims it launching it forwards. Wisbech with possession 25 yards out Kowalewsky bringing it inside rolled on to Lyon central then out to Newell left laid back for Hall coming forwards shoots from 30 yards out the ball driven in Marjoram punching it down, scrambles to get her gloves around it with Kowalewsky coming in.
Not happening for St Ives in the final third and that is bringing frustration, Carpenter seizing on an opportunity to catch Simpson out of position getting hold of the ball wide right lifts the ball over Simpson, falling short of the near post Worrall after it can’t keep it in play as she attempts to keep it alive. Wisbech for all their dominance need a 2nd goal to make the scoreline more comfortable Stanborough doing well through the middle a powerful run the ball on for Lyon tries to lay it on for Sophie Swinden inside the D, Astley intercepts before Kowalewsky is brought down 35 yards out from goal.
GOAL! Sophie Swinden putting the ball down with intent no one else around players forwards but only one thing on her mind as she strikes the ball towards goal plenty of lift on it with pace Marjoram not the biggest of keepers, Wisbech thinking they can exploit it, not as easy as it sounds however the delivery spot on though dropping under the bar and into the back of the net for that crucial 2nd goal 0-2.
Sophie Swindon with the strike to make to 2-0 to Wisbech (picture credit Gary Reed)
Less than 20 minutes left on the clock, St Ives get forwards Worrall on the left carrying the ball forwards turning her marker inside out before flashing a cross into the area intercepted near post Liddiard gets hold of it inside the box for St Ives shifts the ball before shooting the attempt straight at and held by Simpson. St Ives with a corner on the right into a crowded near post area Wisbech scrambling it away. A change for St Ives Cook back on replacing Powell.
Wisbech press high keeping St Ives on the back foot in defence as they struggle to get forwards to try and find a way back into the game, Stanborough breaking up more than one attack. Luckett comes back on in place of Newell. Lyon robbing the ball off the St Ives defence chases it down into the area closing in on the keeper gets to it first lifting a shot wide of the near post. Stanborough 20 yards out lets fly central again seeing a shot smash against the crossbar.
Wisbech Town Ladies Chloe Stanborough with St Ives Penelope Ford (picture credit Gary Reed)
Wisbech in possession of the ball around the St Ives box won’t let them out late on, Carpenter comes off for St Ives Berryman back on to join the attack with 5 minutes left. Luckett tackling to regain the ball to stop St Ives breaking right, Lyon comes off for Wisbech Newell returning. Berryman bringing down a long pass 30 yards out plays it to Cook out wide right she sends a cross in near post area attacked by Steel her downward header deflected wide of goal a corner awarded. Shouts for handball as the ball is played into the box a 2nd corner given this one to the top of the area Newell gets hold of it for Wisbech brings the ball away.
Into stoppage time Wisbech continue their high pressing game effective a free-kick won wide right Stanborough to deliver played into the near post bodies to fight through Marjoram is determined to get there does well punching the ball away to safety. Wisbech keep the ball in the final third win a late corner the ball long to the far post a touch seeing it spin away wide of the upright. The final whistle blows and Wisbech Town Ladies win this seasons Division One Cup Final.
Full time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-2 Wisbech Town Ladies
Wisbech deserved winners played well creating the better opportunities the woodwork struck twice a 1-0 lead at half-time could have been more. That the score for 25 minutes into the 2nd half another goal was needed just to make things more comfortable St Ives struggling to get anything going in attack never out of it just couldn’t find a way back into the game, the 2nd goal eventually coming Wisbech defending from the front keeping St Ives penned in their own half limited attacks. No doubt St Ives will be disappointed can only dust themselves down and put all their focus into their remaining league games. Wisbech in turn can use their cup success to bolster their own title battle.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A shortlist of three eventually whittled down to one as the 2nd half wore on. Leah Hall with a fine performance at the back for Wisbech, striker Sophie Swinden as constant threat great strike to make it 2-0 from distance, overall like she did in the semi-final the award goes to Chloe Stanborough a driving force in the heart of midfield for Wisbech getting forwards, striking the woodwork (twice) and more often than not the player in to stop St Ives getting out to attack.
Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.
Wisbech Town Ladies Division One Cup Winners
Wisbech winning the Division One Cup lifting the trophy and getting soaked in a good deal of prosecco in the process enjoying the celebrations, of the the pub just a few hundred yards away to continue no doubt their will be a few sore heads later today.
An enjoyable night under the lights once again, Saturday off though in need of a rest after two finals in a row my thanks to everyone for their help with the team details as always much appreciated and to Gary Reed for the additional photos.
Cambridge City Ladies Development v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds
A trip to Cambridgeshire this evening for a Cup Final double, first up this Thursday the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium.
An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Final, Cambridge City Ladies Development with the chance to win a treble, beginning with a shot at silverware this evening have also reached this season’s League Cup Final to come in May. They are currently top of the league and in a strong position with 4 games left to play to win the title and with their 1st team winning the ERWFL Premier Division title this season their 3rd league title in 4 seasons the club is enjoying a prolific spell with a strong youth section being the bedrock of the club. Megan Tonks top scorer for the Development side has 28 goals to her name so far this season.
A Cup Final appearance for the second season running for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Reached the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup last season on their way to winning promotion back to the Premiership. Currently leading the pack in the cluster of sides below the top 3 with 3 points between the sides placed 4th to 7th a top half finish a real possibility with a handful of games left. Marie Stubbings once again leading Fulbourn’s goal scoring charts with 17 goals to her name so far this season.
Road to the Final
Fulbourn receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition, Cambridge City awarded a home win the action moves on to the quarter finals. Cambridge City at home taking on Histon Ladies Reserves, Megan Tonks netting a hat-trick along with a goal for Hannah Lock seeing them win the game 4-1. Fulbourn were at home too in the quarter finals taking on Championship South side Cambridge Ranger WFC, goals from Amy Smith, Yasmine Upson, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings putting them through to the semi-finals with a 4-0 win.
Onto the semi-finals Cambridge City at home to fellow Premiership side March Town United Ladies. Another hat-trick this time from 16-year-old Freya Standing, along with an own goal plus one from Rachel Pearce seeing them comfortably through to the junior Invitation Cup Final winning 5-0. Fulbourn were taking on another Championship South side in the last 4, Burwell Tigers Ladies. A brace each from Stubbings & Pinner aswell as a goal by Katie Luddy securing a 5-1 win to send them through to the final.
Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium the venue for this evenings Junior Invitation Cup Final, it’s a large pitch offering plenty of width seen alot of action over the season. The bar open a large seated stand overlooking the pitch. The food hut open too, only went to get a cup of tea but the burgers did look good and temptation got the better of me, have been good though this believe it or not my first cheeseburger of the season and it was very nice too. The evenings pulling out the light not yet gone at kick-off a warm day beginning to cool, dry with a little cloud cover.
Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Hannah Lock, Becky Langthorpe, Lucy Hurst, Anna Kanz, Jade Powell, Emily Reed, Rachel Pearce, Ellie Cullum (C), Yaz Crow, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks. Subs – Jess Struthers, Amy Ozakpinar & Bronte Rapley.
Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Isaacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Abi Molloy, Katrina Cloherty, Emma Clark, Sarah Gee, Stacey Kemp, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Amy Smith, Gabby Gallegos, Abi Dowell McGrillan, Nikki Cowan & Katie Luddy.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Pre match handshakes
It’s Fulbourn to get the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup underway wearing claret shirts and socks with navy blue shorts. Cambridge opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Cambridge closing down the ball in the middle quickly get position switch play down the right wing Freya Standing taking the ball on, Krissie Taylor defending for Fulbourn seeing the ball out for a goalkick.
Fulbourn look to get away on their right the ball won on halfway Yaz Crow playing it on high into the area, Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger getting her head on the ball nodding it behind for a corner. Played in from the left into bodies at the near post pushed out towards the top of the area met by a Cambridge shirt a low shot driven back in towards goal, Samantha Isaacson captain and goalkeeper getting down on her line to stop the ball.
Cambridge captain Ellie Cullum looks to combine with Standing on the right as they press forwards Fulbourn defending Taylor backed up by Abi Molloy another corner conceded. Cambridge with a bright start closing the ball down. Standing attacks with the ball at her feet, Taylor up against her does well to nick the ball her clearance straight to Cullum her return ball back over the top for Standing sees her flagged offside. Standing seeing alot of the ball early on squares a cross to Cullum central 25 yards out she helps it on to the left Crow getting forwards takes the shot on early her strike racing wide across goal.
Fulbourn riding out the early pressure from their opponents break forwards Bodger playing the ball out from the back long for Marie Stubbings to chase into the right channel she pushes it out of her feet before sending a low diagonal ball in towards the top of the area looking for Sharon Pinner who has gotten into an advanced position, pressures the Cambridge defence into a rushed clearance the ball straight to midfielder Sarah Gee she catches it well from 25 yards out the strike the shot over goalkeeper Hannah Lock smashes against the crossbar.
Cambridge get hold of the loose ball taking it forwards rapidly hitting Fulbourn on the counter the pass into striker Megan Tonks she is tackled 25 yards out the deflected ball running behind for a corner on the right. The delivery in near post Bodger is up well to defend for Fulbourn heading the ball on away past the far post a scramble for the ball sees it run wide of the post adjudged off a Cambridge foot a goalkick given.
GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and Fulbourn take the lead possession on the left the ball is played forwards a great pass finding Stubbings central 30 yards out back to goal turns well pushing on has Stacey Kemp making a fantastic run to her right lay the ball into her path the winger hitting the ball from outside the box well struck to whistle past the keeper into the back of the net and put see Fulbourn lead 0-1.
Cambridge get straight on the attack a long distance strike from the right sent wide of goal, Seema Grewal defending at right back stops Crow taking the ball in behind.
GOAL! Fulbourn’s lead doesn’t last long as Cambridge find an immediate response the ball kept on the left a throw in won inside the Fulbourn half players from both sides drifting across a pass slid forwards comes to Standing 20 yards out left of the D, not closed down takes a touch before taking on the shot the ball bouncing inside the six yard box managing to creep inside the post to see the scores level 1-1.
More good footwork from Standing attacking right a cross swung in looping into the six yard box taken well by Issacson. Grewal on for Kemp on the right getting forwards has support from Stubbing central, Anna Kanz though doing well in defence for Cambridge winning the ball back and playing it forwards into Emily Reed, onto Cullum she turns attempting to play Tonks in behind, Bodger with an important interception for Fulbourn, Cullum latching onto the loose back her shot from distance falling wide of the target.
Rachel Pearce plays a fantastic diagonal pass forwards into Standing right side taking the ball on Taylor standing up against her well preventing her getting in behind. Fulbourn make ground on their right a throw in won level with the area, put on into Stubbings inside the box, Kanz tackling wins the ball. Cambridge make a change Hurst coming off at left back on in her place Jess Struthers. Good combination play between Standing and Tonks getting forwards attempting a one two the ball inside the box claimed well by Issacson down at the attackers feet.
Play from one end to the other, Fulbourn winning a corner got work from Stubbings on the byline holding it up as Kemp plays it forwards. The delivery from the right defended at the near post Cambridge launching a counter attack, the ball out to the right Standing sending a cross racing into the area long cleared past the far post along the ground it met well by the advancing Cullum struck back in low cut out inside the six yard box the ball popping up for Tonks central has a stab at it placing the ball wide of the left post.
GOAL! Cambridge come back from conceding the opening goal to take the lead a goal out of nothing possession high on the left the ball with Reed inside the area taking it to the byline not tackled looks for options corner of the six yard box, hooks a ball in towards goal the looping shot over Issacson drops over the line to see Cambridge go 2-1 up.
Cambridge City Ladies. Emily Reed
A Cambridge corner on the right dealt well again at the near post by Bodger. Cambridge enjoying more of the ball exerting pressure towards the end of the 1st half make a 2nd change, Kanz the player coming off on comes Amy Ozakpinar. Fulbourn’s Emma Clark playing the ball forwards on the left for Pinner to chase, Becky Langthorpe’s clearance catching her in the face. A stinging blast hitting her in the eye, no chances taken time needed to recover, she is substituted one comes Abi Dowell McGrillan. Stubbings seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out looks to turn in behind Jade Powell getting in the tackle to regain possession.
Becky Langthorpe clearing the ball before Fulbourn’s Sharon Pinner can close her down
Good hold-up play from Clark on the left for Fulbourn inside the Cambridge half plays it back to Taylor before turning in behind to get forwards in attack the full back with a great past up to Stubbings outside the box cushions it down well aiming to put it on for Clark not quite able to take it in her stride, Struthers clearing for Cambridge. Katrina Cloherty with the ball central for Fulbourn out to Dowell McGrillan left her crossfield ball finding Kemp attacking on the right puts it into the area for Stubbing right of goal she gets a shot away the ball blocked deflected wide. Kemp down with an injury after being fouled far side, a late change for Fulbourn, Amy Smith given her moment runs on the wind taken out of her sails as the whistle blows straight away for half-time.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 2-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds
An entertaining first half Cambridge with the early pressure Fulbourn coping well in defence breaking well to open the first smash a shot against the ball then open the scoring from a well taken strike by Kemp. Switched off a little to see Cambridge draw level straight away and then go on to take the lead, not as fluid as Cambridge would like but the advantage is theirs at the half-time interval.
Pinner back on for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half, no changes for Cambridge as they get the 2nd 45 minutes underway. Up in the stand to watch the 2nd half. Pearce playing an over the top pass for Standing right side, Taylor getting across her and defending for Fulbourn. Standing with a strong run down the right again gets in behind this time bursting into the box hitting a shot goalwards, Issacson doing well at her near post down to push the ball wide across her six yard box, Grewal the first to it sends the clearance up field.
Cambridge on the front foot attacking with purpose at the start of the 2nd half Crow taking the ball on to the byline left does well to get her side a corner. Taken short the angle opened to put in the cross, Grewal is out to the ball jumping to block the ball. Standing with the ball right 30 yards out lays it back to Langthorpe the full back opening her boy to lift a long range diagonal pass into Tonks top of the D, chesting it down to her left tries to place it into the path of the advancing Pearce, the attack not quite coming off.
Tonks coming left sends the ball on for Cullum breaking in behind, Grewal with an important interception. Cambridge all attack get forwards left a cross sent in along the top of the area Tonks looking to latch onto it, Molloy gets their just in time to block the ball deflected wide for a corner. In low from the left flicked on into the six yard box, a touch goalwards, straight at Issacson pops out of the keepers gloves a scramble for the loose ball ensues, but Issacson grounded has the ball in her gloves on her goal line.
Fulbourn make a change Pinner off on comes Katie Luddy, little in the way of attacks so far Cambridge on the front foot. Standing pulled back on the right corner a free-kick awarded, the ball played into the near post, Bodger continues to win it for Fulbourn. Cambridge make a double change Reed and Tonks the players off on come Bronte Rapley with Kanz returning to the action.. Crow away on the left sending the ball inside for Cullum bursting into the box a snap shot not caught cleanly the midfielder snatching it wide of her near post.
GOAL! Against the run of play Fulbourn break and get themselves back on level terms 20 minutes into the 2nd half. A fantastic run with the ball from Luddy on the right getting in behind to fire a cross into the box along the top of the six yard box knocked away at the near post the ball collected by Stubbings central just inside the area a great turn and hit the ball swerving past Lock curling into the back of the net 2-2 game on.
Fulbourn’s Marie Stubbings
A goal can do wonders for confidence and suddenly Fulbourn are on the front foot themselves looking to attack once more Grewal winning the ball back higher up the pitch pushing it on for Luddy, Struthers tackling to prevent the cross. The Cambridge defence put under pressure Powell clearing. Cambridge make another double switch Reed and Hurst returning in place of Cullum and Langthorpe. Standing drifting over to the left picking up the ball turns well inside the box her shot blocked, a 2nd bite at the cherry for Standing knocked central a shot pushed towards goal Issacson down to push it behind for a corner.
An injury for Cambridge before it can be taken, Crow can’t continue Tonks is back on. Mayhem from the corner but I’ll do my best the delivery perfect in central top of the six yard box a header downwards cleared off the line put out to the right wide of goal a shot blasted back in smashes against the crossbar dropping into the six yard box players dive in referee Dulcie Asher pointing to the spot Cambridge winning the penalty!
GOAL! Bronte Rapley placing the ball down a short run up and composed finish, Issacson going the wrong way as she finds the bottom left corner to restore the lead 3-2 with a little under 15 minutes to play.
Luddy showing her frustration as she is adjudged to have fouled Struthers after Stubbings plays her in on the right with a good lay off. Standing on the left now gets clear to get her foot wrapped around the ball a drive a cross in across the six yard box, Molloy able to intercept and clear at the far post. Reed with a run from midfield the cross from the byline from Standing just evading her. Fulbourn making 3 changes in quick succession, Luddy first for Cloherty, Pinner return in in place of Gee with Gabby Gallegos for Pinner whose cameo was longer than this paragraph suggests.
Fulbourn win a free-kick in a dangerous area just in front of the D, Taylor over it gets her shot in on target past the wall, safely gathered by Lock back on her line, Time running out Cambridge are a young side and they don’t tend to run the ball into the corners attack on their minds. Bodger well placed tracking back to intercept with Tonks on her shoulder as Struthers threads a diagonal ball into her the ball out for a throw on the left. Time up the final whistle blows and Cambridge City Ladies Development celebrate winning the Junior Invitation Cup.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 3-2 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds
The first part of their potential treble complete, Cambridge weren’t at their best but that only added to the excitement. A strong start but Fulbourn rode it out well hitting on the counter taking an early lead. Their back four playing really well all making some crucial tackles and breaking up Cambridge’s flow. Switched off for both the goals as Cambridge fought back to level straight away then take the lead. An onslaught at the start of the 2nd half from Cambridge without getting the break through of a 3rd goal. Fulbourn taking their chance well through Stubbings to make it 2-2. Cambridge getting the opportunity to restore their lead from the penalty spot Rapley with a composed finish.
Women’s Football East – Payer of the Match
On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. An entertaining game with some great moments of defending two well taken strikes from Fulbourn, the award goes to the scorer of Cambridge’s first goal Freya Standing easy to see why she has broken into the first team this season, lively on the wing always available as the ball is won back at the back taking players on and setting up attacks.
Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development on their trophy success this evening.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners, Cambridge City Ladies Development.
One final down, back to Cambridgeshire again tomorrow (well it’s today as I write this) for the Division One Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development up against Wisbech Town Ladies at Ely City FC. An enjoyable game under the lights at Histon, my thanks to both sides for the team details.
The race for the title in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One looks like it will go all the way now in what has been an intriguing title race at the top of the table all season. Northwood Ladies the first side to complete their fixtures ending on a high sitting top of the table with a crucial 1-0 home win over 2nd placed St Albans Ladies on Sunday, that win taking Northwood 4 points clear of St Albans Ladies meaning they can’t catch the with one game left to play. Runners-up to St Albans Ladies in their debut season last year Northwood are guaranteed a top two finish this time around too. Leanne Jones scoring the all important winning goal.
As intriguing as the title race in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One has been, there was always likely with their games in hand over their rivals and suffering just the one defeat all season that Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies would come through to take top spot, that though looks less certain now after they suffered a surprise defeat away from home on Sunday to bottom side Garston Ladies 2nd XI. A brace from Ruby Jager along with a goal for Charley Kelsey seeing Garston Ladies fresh from reaching The Chris Renshaw Trophy final beating Hemel Hempstead 3-1. Amy Bentall scoring the goal for the visitors, the title remains in Hemel Hempstead’s reach with 3 games left to play but can’t afford any more slip ups with the gap to Northwood 6 points.
A good weekend all round for Garston Ladies women’s sides as their 1st team extended their unbeaten run in league and cup to 6 matches building on a midweek win away to Sherrardswood Ladies to beat Sharnbrook WFC at home this Sunday. A 2-1 win in midweek, Garston scored 2 without reply on Sunday to pick up the 3 points and climb up a place to 7th in the table.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Home wins awarded to the top two in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the title battle almost over. Hitchin Belles top of the table leading by 9 points with a game left to play, that match away to 2nd placed Hitchin Town Ladies this coming Sunday. A positive result for Hitchin Belles seeing them finish champions, promotion to Division One for the 1st time assured. Even a win for Hitchin Town may not be enough as even with maximum points from their last 3 games will see the sides level on 44 points Hitchin Belles with a usual 19+ goal difference as it stands. A fantastic season for both an Sunday’s game sure to be a special day played at Hitchin Town FC’s Top Field stadium.
One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday, a thriller between Evergreen Ladies & Watton Ladies sharing 9 goals, Watton bringing an end to Evergreen’s winning streak. Both sides short on a full compliment of players Natalie Maher on target with a brace for Evergreen has 14 goals now for the season with Top scorer Rebecca Freeman staying 1 ahead of her on 15 with a goal, Lisa Nolan also getting a goal. 4 though wasn’t enough for Evergreen to take anything from the game as a brace from Gemma Bickell taking her to 10 for the season and a hat-trick from Sian Owens also on 10 goals no seeing Watton clinch the win 5-4.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Three games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday and with leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves not in action it was a chance for 2nd & 3rd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lioness & AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies to close the gap exert some pressure leading into the final 3 games of the season.
Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses at home to Bedwell Rangers Ladies this Sunday, Nikita Blackburn scoring a brace for the hosts her 1st goals of the season. Kodi Meader and Victoria Harrold celebrating a goal each too along with top scorer Giselle Randall finding the back of the net for the 25th time this season as Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses won the game 5-2 to close the gap to Dunstable back to 4 points. Jessica Sullivan and Georgia Miller scoring the goals for Bedwell Rangers playing their last game of the season.
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies were also at home this Sunday taking on Stotfold Juniors Ladies in Division Three. Bex Cray top scoring in the game with 4 for the hosts moves her onto 18 goals for the season. AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College winning the game 7-2 with Emily Devereux, Rachael Mumford and Danielle Cherry all claiming a goal each, Cherry’s first of the season. The 3rd placed side closing the gap to AFC Dunstable to 7 points, the two sides have to play each other home and away in their final 3 games, with their final game at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses those games could well have a big impact on the title.
A hat-trick from Amber Clark enough to see 4th placed Langford Ladies win the 3 points at home to Kempston Rovers Ladies on Sunday in Division Three. The hosts edging the win by 3 goals to 2, Clark out in front as top scorer for Langford now with 23 goals. Meghan Dimmock and Chelsea Rose Jeffery scoring for Kempston Rovers.
