Harlow Town Ladies Development are the first side to reach the final of this season’s Essex Women’s League Cup. Their young side enjoying an impressive debut season in the Premier Division 4th in the table a long unbeaten run at the start of the season now into their 1st ever final. Were away to Division One side Runwell Sports Ladies who have been League Cup finalists themselves losing to Harlow’s 1st team 3 seasons ago. Harlow’s Development side enjoying a good first half showing to lead the game 3-0 built on that 2nd half adding a further 5 goals to book their spot in the final with an 8-1 win. Top scorer Hannah Smith on target for 4 of those goals taking her goals for the season up to 27. Ellie Nicholls also on the scoresheet with her 18th goal of the season with a goal each to for Maisy Wyer, Evie Anderson and Savannah Japal. Leigh Ramblers Ladies are at home to Southend United Ladies in the other League Cup semi-final taking place this coming Sunday.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Collier Row Tigers are up to 3rd spot in the Essex Women’s Division after picking up the 3 point in an impressive win away to 4th placed Chelmsford City Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Laura Bunton racing past the 30 goals mark with a 5 goal haul that sees her on 31 goals from just 12 appearances. Collier Row Tigers winning the game 6-0 with Emma Harrison the other goalscorer.
A 5th straight league win for Southend United Ladies sees them consolidate 6th position in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and with games in hand on the sides above them could yet push for a top half finish after a slow start to the campaign. Were in the road this Sunday taking on Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Jo Smeaton scoring her 20th goal of the season for the hosts it wasn’t enough for Beacon Hill Rovers to get anything from the game as goals from Lily Halliday and Ellie Wood saw Southend United win the game 2-1.
Essex Women’s Division One
In Essex Women’s Division One, Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies are the 1st side to play out all their fixtures end their campaign leading the table by 3 points wasn’t to be more as they suffered defeat in their final league match at home to 3rd placed Hutton Ladies Reserves. Baylie Kingsnorth celebrating a brace, with a goal each for Vicky Kinsman and Cassandra Piejko plus an own goal in a 5-0 win. Dagenham & Redbridge can only wait and see what the chasing pack will do, a 3rd placed finish guaranteed at least, with both 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies Reserves 3 points behind with 3 games in hand and 5th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies on 30 points with 7 still to play can overhaul them. Either way a great season for Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies. Hutton Ladies Reserves enjoying a strong season too have had a real impact on the title race.
FC Clacton Ladies climb up to 4th in the Essex Women’s Division One table winning at home this Sunday against Chigwell Ladies. Goals from Jasmine Cox, Lauren Lucas and a 1st of the season from Sasha Moy securing a 3-1 win for FC Clacton. Victoria Parker getting on the scoresheet for Chigwell Ladies her 15th goal of the season.
A home win too this Sunday in Division One for Chelmsford City Ladies taking on Belhus Ladies, goals from Kelsey Honeywood and Tish Cleary seeing Chelmsford win the game 2-1 to record their 3rd league win of the season enough to take them above Belhus into 9th place in the table. Bethany Murray scoring for Belhus.
Into April the finishing line in sight for a number of clubs the season soon coming to an end. Cambridge City Ladies Development 3 points clear at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership have 4 left to play, weren’t in action this Sunday but saw other results go their way. Just the one game played in the league at the weekend and it was a good result at home for Netherton United Ladies as they held third placed Cambridge University Women to a 0-0 draw. The big movers in the league Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds the latest side to leap from 7th to 4th courtesy of being awarded the 3 points for a home win over 2nd placed ICA Sports Ladies who now have just one mach left to play.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
In the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North leaders Ketton Ladies kept up their winning record 11 from 11 now to open up a 6 point lead at the top of the table. Ketton were at home this Sunday taking on 3rd placed Cardea Ladies. 25 goals for the season now for Claire Lawrenson as she celebrated scoring a hat-trick for Ketton. Fran Kavanagh once again amongst the goals to netting a brace to move onto 44 for the season. Ketton winning the game 5-1, Laura Rudd with the Cardea goal.
In the other game played in the Championship North there was a eye opening scoreline between Hungate Rovers Ladies & Wisbech St Mary Ladies with the hosts 2nd from bottom in the table racking up a double figure scoreline to win for just the 2nd time this season. Hungate Rovers ladies winning the game 10-0. Savanna Plavecz top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. Also amongst the goals were Kelly McKenna scoring twice with a goal each for Ewelina Jerzak, Kate Neal and Kelly McManus the latter pair scoring their first goals of the season.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Three games left to play in the league now for Haverhill Rovers Ladies look on course for the title holding a 9 point lead at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South. Can be caught by 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development who have 3 games in hand, one of Haverhill’s remaining games however at home to St Ives. This Sunday they racked up another double figure win this time at home against Park Ladies. A hat-trick each for Kayleigh Nolan who has 16 for the season and Abbi Griffin who is on 9. Top scorer Joeli Kirby also on the scoresheet with another goal taking her tally to 36 for the season. Julie Brown and Sian Cotterill alos scoring with an own goal completing a 10-0 victory.
St Ives Town Ladies Development prepared for their upcoming Division One Cup Final this Friday with a comfortable home win against Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Winning the game 6-0 to keep their title hopes alive games in hand will be looking to close the gap to leaders Haverhill before the sides meet on the 5th of May.
Cambridge Rangers Women continue to keep neck and neck with St Ives Town Ladies Development level with them on 24 points albeit having played two games more. Their 8th win of the season coming at home on Sunday against Burwell Tigers Ladies. A close result in the finish Charlotte Fogarty and Elisa Heinamaa scoring a goal each for Burwell, Cambridge Rangers edging them out to win the 3 points with a 3-2 victory.
Annie Northwood was on target for all 4 goals in East Bergholt United Ladies 4-1 win away to Brettvale Ladies this Sunday to see them retain their 6 point lead at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division. Just 2 games left to play a point is all that is needed to ensure them the league title. Northwood scoring an impressive 37 goals now for the season. Completing a first half hat-trick to put East Bergholt in full control of the game adding a 4th 2nd half. Tarnya McKew with the strike from Brettvale.
East Bergholt have been pushed all the way to the end by Needham Market Women enjoying a fantastic debut season in women’s football, the only side to beat East Bergholt in the league, a sic point gap are guaranteed runners-up spot at the least 11 points clear of 3rd placed Brantham Athletic now who have 3 left to play. That gap extended away to Brantham this Sunday. A big game Needham Market holding a slender 1 goal advantage at half-time. Brantham scoring 2 goals in the 2nd half, Needham Market scoring plenty of goals themselves this season adding a further 4 to win the game 5-2. Francesca Rainbird top scorer fast closing in on 30 goals for the season a brace moving her closer on 28. Amber Sparkes to celebrating a brace has 19 for the season. Eboni-mae Shepherd with the other goal her 3rd of the season.
Woodbridge Town Ladies are another new name this season enjoying a good campaign up into 4th in the table lay just 2 points off 3rd placed Brantham now the 3 points won away from home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. The visitors leading 2-0 at half-time went on to secure the win scoring a 3rd goal in the 2nd half. Top scorer, Jenna Liverpool with a brace moves onto 18 goals for the season. Kerry Scott also on the scoresheet scoring her first goal for Woodbridge.
A tussle in the middle of the table 6th placed Walsham Le Willow Ladies at home to 7th placed Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division victory for the away side seeing the pair swap places in the table. Norma Locker and Olivia Hodges scoring for Walsham Le Willows. Sarah Cooper finding the back of the net for a brace for Leiston St Margarets her 6th & 7th goals of the season with a goal each for Leanne Morphew & Leanne Fairweather in a 4-2 victory.
Victory too on Sunday for Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies in their bottom of the table clash at home to University of Suffolk Women. A brace for Charlotte Archer taking her to 11 for the season along a brace from Madeleine Fairbrother her first goals for Chantry Grasshoppers and a goal for Bernice Corney seeing the hosts win 5-1 against the bottom side.
This weekend saw the semi-finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition taking place. An all Division One line-up. Beccles Town Ladies reaching the last 4 of the competition were looking to reach their first ever cup final as they travelled to play Aylsham Ladies in their semi-final. A disappointing 2nd half to the campaign for Aylsham who showed early promise upon their return to women’s football this season 2nd for a long spell played out their last league match in midweek a 4-2 loss seeing them finish 5th. A shot at ending the season on a high by reaching the League Plate final. Megan Vincent on target with a goal for Beccles giving them a narrow lead at half-time. Onto the 2nd half and Vincent struck again to double Beccles lead and see them into their first ever final in just their 2nd season.
Their opponents in the League Plate Final will be Sprowston Athletic Ladies who will be making their third successive appearance on a Norfolk Women’s Finals day in their various guises. Their debut as Sprowston Athletic were at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves in the last 4. Katie Fray netting a brace along with a gal for Olivia Leggett securing a 3-1 win for Sprowston Athletic, Laura Watson on the scoresheet for Wymondham.
The Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final between Sprowston Athletic Ladies & Beccles Town Ladies scheduled for Sun 5th May at Plantation Park a 10am kick-off part of the NWGFL Finals day with the 7’s Final & League Cup Final between Sprowston Ladies & Tavern Ladies
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One game played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday just a handful of matches left to play, Thorpe United Ladies Champions have played all their games. this weekend it was the last league game of the season for Sprowston Ladies, into the final of the Ladies League Cup the 2nd placed side were away to Bungay Town Ladies who picked up the 3 points with a midweek home win over Aylsham Ladies on Wednesday. A 4-2 win, Imogen McGregor netting a brace with a goal each to for Jody Wells & Selina Rowland.
Were looking to build on that result at home to Sprowston the scores level at 1 a piece at half-time more of the same 2nd half with both adding another goal to share the points in a 2-2 draw. McGregor scoring both the goals for Bungay the youngster into double figures now for the season. Victoria Leyer on the scoresheet for Sprowston once again with her 28th of the season with Abbi Nobbs also getting a goal. Sprowston finishing on 23 points 2 clear of Gorleston Ladies who still have two games to play.
Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Taverham United Women remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Their lead 9 points bouncing back well from their 1st league defeat of the season against Tavern ladies two weeks ago. At home this Sunday were taking on Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Taverham are scoring plenty of goals well past 100 now, 36 of those claimed by Rebecca Sutton the clubs top scorers on target with another goal this Sunday. Goals to for Charlotte Hurren her 9th of the campaign and Teigan Robinson with her 12th of the season Taverham winning 3-0. A big week coming up with a trip to Long Stratton Women now 2nd on Wednesday and Clipbush Park on Sunday to play 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies.
Those two met this weekend with Fakenham 2nd going into the match travelling to Long Stratton. The hosts taking a 1-0 lad into the break with Emily Watts finding the back of the net. Watts adding a further 2 goals in the 2nd half to claim her hat-trick and in doing so moving onto 25 goals for the season. Long Stratton winning the game 3-0 and moving above Fakenham losing for just the 2nd time in the league into 2nd spot.
Tavern Ladies fourth in Division Two were playing at home on Sunday against bottom side Bulldogs Ladies. The Dereham based side are scoring plenty of goals this season, largely through Katie Hart-Copsey who has more than half their tally moving past 40 goals for the season, sporting a new pair of boots at the weekend they brought her a further 4 goals to take her to 45 goals, Tavern leading 4-1 at half-time went on to win the game 7-2. Nicole Costin scoring a brace for Tavern their was also a 21st goal of the season for Atlanta Griffith. Emily Hinsley making just her 3rd appearance for Bulldogs scoring both goals her first for the club.
Both Zoe Waite and Abigail Bell were celebrating a hat-trick at the weekend for Gorleston Rangers Ladies as they won 8-1 away from home against Horsford Women to move back up into 6th position in the Division Two table. Rachel Adams also on the scoresheet for Gorleston with her 13th goal of the season with Amy Durdin celebrating her 1st goal of the campaign. Laura Hudson with the 43rd minute goal fr Horsford.
Hockering Ladies have done fantastically well to battle on this season more often than not struggling to field a full team, it was a rare occasion this Sunday when the boot was on the other foot, Hockering having not only a full side but someone on the bench. Were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies who were the ones short on numbers this Sunday with just 8 available. Hockering able to take advantage a get just their 2nd win of the season. Jolene Ayrton opening the scoring in the 7th minute went on to score a first half brace her first goals for Hockering 2-0 up at half-time Leah Brown was on target from a brace too in the 2nd half. Laura Stratton making her 2nd Hockering appearance scoring her 1st goal too along with Sophie Baldry celebrating her 1st Hockering goal in just her 3rd appearance. A 6-0 win for Hockering.
Cambridge City Ladies have won the ERWFL Premier Division with 3 games to spare, a 4-0 home win over Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last Sunday. This Sunday they travelled to Hertfordshire to play Royston Town Ladies looking to end the season unbeaten, just the two points dropped so far. Those coming in the reverse league fixture with Royston who are enjoying a god season themselves in the league 2nd with a 4 point gap over 3rd placed Acle United Women going into the game. A rainy afternoon Royston started well but it was Cambridge who took the early lead Shannon Shaw heading the ball in from six yards after the delivery from a corner wasn’t cleared. Further chances for Cambridge to extend the lead 1st half as they worked hard to limit opportunities up the other end. A 1-0 lead at half time.
Royston’s Sammy Tinsley battles with Cambridge’s Sarah Mosley for possession of the ball
More urgency from Royston 2nd half as they looked to get back on level terms, hitting them on the break Shaw was put through in the left channel to shoot from the top of the area her shot squeezing in inside the post on the hour, a well taken goal from the edge of the area from 16-year-old Freya Standing seeing Cambridge extend their lead. A frustrating afternoon for Royston their advantage in 2nd cut to a point but remain in a strong position with 3 matches left to play.
Acle United Women have been amongst the title challenges for the past 3 season’s, pushing all the way in earlier campaigns haven’t managed to exert pressure on the leaders this season, not that anyone else has. Nevertheless in the top 4 all season are looking for a strong finish into 3rd clinched the 3 points at home on Sunday to close the gap to a point on 2nd placed Royston. Harlow Town Ladies making the long trip up to Norfolk this weekend. The visitors playing 2 thirds of the game with 10 players after Rubie Smith got her marching orders in the 32nd minutes for a rash challenge that saw Acle captain Anna Larkins forced off through injury. Both sides creating openings early on. The game goalless at half-time. Harlow battling hard in the 2nd period to keep Acle at bay as they pushed forwards looking a goal, the winner coming with 6 minutes left of normal play Mary-Anne Hoy stretching out a toe to get on the end of a cross and sent it into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club.
A 4-1 win at home to Wymondham Town Ladies over Bedford Ladies a month ago, the Norfolk side travelled to Bedfordshire this Sunday to play the reverse fixture. 4th in the Premier Division table, Wymondham opened the scoring on 22 minutes after making a good start Laura Nicholls on hand to score the ball flicked on by Chardonnay Johnston. Jorja Patterson doubling the lead just 6 minutes later to see the visitors 2-0 up at half-time. Bedford starting the 2nd half well forcing a save from Wymondham keeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan in the 50th minute, Bedford get it back to 2-1 moments later scoring from a corner. The equaliser coming midway through the 2nd half. The points shared, Eden Kibron and Michelle Byrne Bedford’s goalscorers.
3 wins in a row now for Colney Heath Ladies finding a bit of form towards the end of the season, an away win over Haringey Borough Women this Sunday. The Hertfordshire sides taking the lead in the 1st half a cross put in from the byline parried by the keeper falling to Melissa Godino to smash the ball into the back of the net to score her 1st goal for the club the goal proving to be enough to win the game.
ERWFL Division One
St Ives Town Ladies remain 6 points clear and unbeaten still at the top of ERWFL Division One well on course for back to back promotions were up against the side where their excellent season began with a trip to fellow promoted side Lawford Ladies. A close contest Lawford finding their feet in the league well after a heavy loss to St Ives on the opening day. Chances for both side it was St Ives who open the scoring Georgia Stancombe heading in at the far post from an Emily Stephenson cross. Lawford coming back to level inside 10 minutes Daisy Canny captaining Lawford with a good run and pass to tee up Michelle McRae to score her 1st goal for the club. Level at half-time St Ives starting the 2nd half well Lawford battling to keep them out, the scores level heading deep into injury time the visitors pressing Tierney Coulson finding Emily Smith inside the box she took her chance to score and win the game for St Ives.
2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies can only win their games now and home St Ives slip up keep the gap to 6 points with the two sides due to play at St Ives in a fortnight. This Sunday they were taking on 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies at home. 3 draws in a row seeing Newmarket slip away from the title picture themselves, a good season so far playing at this level for the 1st time. Bowers & Pitsea losing just the two matches in the league this season strong themselves buoyed by recent success in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final. Sophie Dowman on target for her 13th goal of the season opening the scoring for Bowers & Pitsea in the 12th minute. That the only goal of the first half. The hosts scoring early in the 2nd half Dowman with the assist putting Georgia Fraser in to slide a shot under the keeper to make it 2-0 her 17th of the season. Jennifer Lyttle with a 25 yard strike in the 86th minute seeing Bowers & Pitsea to a 3-0 win.
A trip to Hertfordshire for King’s Lynn Town Ladies this Sunday as they took on 4th placed Stevenage Ladies Reserves. King’s Lynn looking t get some form under their belts in the lead up to the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final being played at Carrow Road. Came home with all 3 points putting in a good team performance, winning the game 2-1, Olivia Baker scoring both the goals enough to win the game with Emily Schofield scoring for Stevenage.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies are up to 5th place in the ERWFL Division One table continuing their recent run of good results that has seen them win 4 on the bounce now. Were away to bottom side Bishops Stortford Ladies this Sunday. Rosy Wodhams scoring a hat-trick moving her ahead in the goal scoring charts with 15 now for the season. Both Grace Leslie and Rebecca Scola also getting a goal each too in the 2nd half for the visitors Hoddesdon winning the game 5-2, and they are also credited with scoring both goals for the hosts.
Histon Ladies bounced back from last weeks home defeat to Stevenage Ladies Reserves to pick up the points on the road this Sunday against Hertford Town Ladies. A single goal enough to win the 3 points coming late on with just 3 minutes left on the clock. Kirsty Geal making her first appearance for Histon scoring the decisive goal. The win putting Histon to within a point of the top half of the table.
Into April the end of the season drawing rapidly to a close, those challenging for titles knowing what they have to do now. Coventry United Ladies top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division suffering their 1st defeat of the season at home to Chichester City Ladies last Sunday bounced back in midweek to win at home against Oxford United Women. This Sunday were on home turf once again taking on 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Women. A frustrating performance from the league leaders as they were held to a draw despite Nikki Miles putting them 1-0 heading in from a corner.
Coventry leading at half-time Queens Park Rangers have had a difficult season, without a win on the board their 4 points all coming from draws, continue to work hard and battle fought back to earn a point with Kasha Petit scoring to make it 1-1 with a little over 20 minutes left. Coventry now 7 points clear of 2nd placed Cardiff City Ladies who have a game in hand. Coventry with a chance to open up a 10 point lead at the top if they win at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in midweek, then it’s a huge game on Sunday at home again to Cardiff City Ladies a win would see Coventry crowned champions.
A 10th league win of the season in their 100th FAWNL win games, it sees Plymouth Argyle Ladies back up into 5th spot in the Southern Premier Division. The 3 points coming at home on Sunday against Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Natasha Knapman putting Plymouth 1-0 to the good inside 10 minutes. Milton Keynes responding straight away to level the scores Amy Gooderham’s half volley finding the back of the net. Plymouth regaining the lead just past the half hour Jessie Jones seeing her shot saved putting it in as the rebound fell straight to her. 2-1 to Plymouth at the half-time interval. The hosts securing the win with a 3rd goal in the 66th minute, Knapman heading home from a cross put in by substitute Helen Bleazard.
Portsmouth FC Women travelled to Kent this Sunday to play Gillingham Ladies. The sides creating few opportunities in the first half went in goalless at the break. The visitors breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half Katie James scoring from a stunning free-kick, her shot from distance over the wall striking the post and in to make it 1-0 in the 52nd minute. The lead doubled with 15 minutes remaining players up for a free-kick the ball parried inside the box Eilidh Currie on hand to score from close range. Portsmouth winning 2-0.
FAWNL South East Division One
Thing’s didn’t turn out the way Crawley Wasps Ladies would have hoped for last Sunday as one more win was needed to clinch the FAWNL South East Division One title, playing 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies, the Essex side spoiling the party winning the game 1-0. Not what they wanted but Crawley remain in a very strong position knowing two wins from their final 5 league matches would be enough to become league champions. Were at home against the only other side in the Division to take points off them this season Cambridge United WFC, that game ending 0-0 was the beginning of a good spell for the visitors as they climb into a strong position in the top half of the table. A better game from Crawley this time around the hosts taking the lead on 20 minutes Jenny Drury’s free-kick striking the bar Amy Green was on hand to nod in the rebound, the lead doubled late in the first half Darcey James heading in from a corner kick.
Crawley 2-0 up at half-time extending their lead early in the 2nd half with Megan Stow making it 3-0 with her 16th goal of the season. Kemina Webber edging in front of Naomi Cole as top scorer getting Crawley’s 4th goal on the hour to give her 19 for the season. Mollie Coupar pulling a goal back for Cambridge with 20 minutes left, Crawley pushing for more goals restoring their 4 goal cushion with 12 minutes left Rachel Palmer striking from 15 yards. Stow from an acute angle scoring her 2nd of the match in injury time to see Crawley win the game 6-1. 1 win from 4 needed now.
Top half positions in FAWNL South East Division One remain hotly contested. Actonians Ladies returning to 3rd spot winning away to bottom side Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. The hosts battling at the foot of the table are a drift and need every point now, held Actonians to a goalless draw first half. The visitors getting the 2nd half off to a fantastic start taking the lead in the opening minute top scorers Alessandra getting the goal to make it 1-0 her 24th strike of the season. Carla Williams adding a 2nd goal for Actonians 7 minutes later making it 2-0 with her 12th of the season. The points made secured midway through the 2nd half with substitute Jennifer Laidlaw scoring to make it 3-0.
Actonians climbing above Leyton Orient WFC as they suffered defeat away from home to Enfield Town Ladies this Sunday. Molly Peters on target with the only goal of the 1st half putting Enfield into a 16th minute lead. Peters 12th goal of the season early in the 2nd half doubling Enfield’s advantage. Claire Ford getting amongst the goals making it 3-0 to the hosts midway through the 2nd half. Lily Bruno introduced to the action in the 74th minute scoring for Enfield in the 82nd minute to wrap up a 4-0 win that sees Enfield back up into 5th spot, all remains very tight in the top half with a handful of games left.
Kevin Foster taking charge of his first game since being named as the new AFC Wimbledon Ladies manager, began with an away trip to Suffolk to play Ipswich Town Women. Chances for the visitors first half the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time. The deadlock broken 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Georgia Heasman floating a ball over the keeper to put Wimbledon into the lead. The visitors going on to double their advantage midway through the 2nd half with Sophie Manzi a 2nd half substitute scoring a fine solo effort to make it 2-0. The win putting Wimbledon back onto the tail of the top half sides.
The league action this Sunday from the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. A clash between the top two with 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies at home to newly crowned Champions, Cambridge City Ladies.
A bit like After the Lord Mayor’s Show turning up to watch Cambridge City Ladies this Sunday after they clinched the league title at home to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies last weekend with a comfortable 4-0 win. A massive achievement winning the Premier Division title, in just their 3rd season playing regional league football a 3rd league title in 4 seasons, and runners-up in the year they didn’t. A rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid, FAWNL football beckons next season and with it a few local derby matches.
Royston Town Ladies, today’s hosts enjoying a great season in the Premier Division themselves, the Hertfordshire side in a strong position to clinch runners-up spot in the league currently 4 points clear of 3rd placed Acle United Women with both having 3 games to play. Amongst the top sides in the league pressurising Cambridge City Ladies at the top. A good start to the season unbeaten in 7 winning 6. The only side to take league points off Cambridge City so far this season drawing away from home 4-4.
Cambridge City Ladies joining the ERWFL 3 season’s ago, Division One Champions in their debut season along with a League Cup final appearance. Runners-up in their first season in the Premier Division. Have won the title with 3 games to spare so far unbeaten dropping just 2 points all season from 19 played. Are into the last four of the League Cup once more a double very much possible. An unbeaten league season the icing on the cake as they move up to the FAWNL next season. Their Development side on course to win the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership aswell as two cup final appearances themselves. A strong youth set-up too within the club where it has made it’s name previous, just last Friday their U14s winning their League Cup final.
The venue for this afternoons match Royston Town FC’s Garden Walk Stadium. The entrance can be easy to miss, but that led me to discover the Civic Car park close by last time so this is where I pitched up this time a short walk to the ground. Nestled behind houses is nevertheless a good sized stadium offering a large pitch looking in great condition offering plenty of width. A clubhouse with bar and hot drinks available. Some covered seating, needed too with the weather forecast predicting rain in the area, wet when I arrived would persist for much of the afternoon, overcast conditions.
Royston Town Ladies starting XI – Yasmine Walford, Katie Seymour, Angharad Chambers, Amy Cooper (C), Beki Fisk, Samantha Edgar, Danielle Carty, Hayley Eldred, Sammy Tinsley, Charlotte South & Jo Rutherford. Subs – Eva Ramsey, Georgia Gannaway, Paris Coldicott-Stevens & Ellie Pickard.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Ceri Flye, Lauren Tomlinson, Anna Goggin, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sarah Mosley, Erin Davies, Carla Penny, Shannon Shaw & Bella Simmons. Subs – Amy Reed, Freya Standing & Bronte Rapley.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Both sides home colours black and white, Royston wearing those colours today, white shirts and socks with black shorts. Cambridge wearing thier sky blue away kit. The rain falling heavily at kick-off, Cambridge to get the 1st half underway, go left Royston quick to close the ball down, Hayley Eldred backed up by Katie Seymour at full back win the ball played up to the strikers, Jo Rutherford looking to win the head beaten to the ball by Cambridge centre back Anna Goggin. Royston press on the right Eldred forwards looking to put the ball on for Rutherford in attack the Cambridge defence intercepts.
Cambridge City Ladies, Carla Penny holding the ball with Royston’s Angharad Chambers marking
A positive start from Royston putting the ball forwards looking to attack win a corner out on the right a high ball into the area cleared, Cambridge break through the middle the ball pushed on sees striker Shannon Shaw clear running in behind 20 yards out takes on the shot early, Royston goalkeeper Yasmine Walford back-peddling slightly unprepared reacts well adjusting to dive to her left and get her gloves to the ball push it wide and behind for a corner to Cambridge.
GOAL! The ball played in towards the near post Walford coming to punch gets something on the ball but only succeeds in knocking it up high into the air and spinning further into the six yard box in front of goal, Cambridge attack it Shaw with the telling header to drive the ball into the back of the net to give the visitors an early lead, just 3 minutes on the clock 0-1.
Shannon Shaw opening the scoring for Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridge’s turn to press the ball on their right, Erin Davies to Carla Penny moving into the right corner holds the ball up as full back Ceri Flye gets forwards in support the ball put back up the line Flye sends a cross into the area, the flag up as striker Bella Simmons strays offside. Simmons with a great run moving right gets in behind drives on coming in field getting into the area lets fly with a shot racing in near post Walford with a reactive save gloves out to send the ball wide and behind at her near post. Royston dealing with the resulting corner.
Seymour recovering well at the back for Royston as Simmons touch sees her get inside her, the full back diving in to make a good tackle win the ball 30 yards from goal. Royston with a free-kick on halfway captain Amy Cooper to play the ball up towards the top of the area, Charlotte South up well to nod the ball down, sky blue shirts reacting quickest to clear the loose ball. Sammy Tinsley lively on the left for Royston is fouled, Angharad Chambers putting the ball up the line, South after it flagged offside.
Royston Town Ladies, Angharad Chambers
Flye with a strong run after the ball carries on down the right closing in on the byline squares a cross into the Royston six yard box is behind Simmons, Cooper latching onto the ball clearing it with Shaw behind her. Is a little scrappy, a few robust challenges coming in from both sides, some decisions angering the Royston bench. Cambridge have the ball on the left get forwards the cross whipped in early Shaw getting in front of her marker near side turns the ball goalwards, Walford can see it safely wide across her goal.
A competitive tussle in the middle of the park, Royston looking to find the final ball Cambridge quick to close down just getting hold of the ball first, South and Rutherford looking to combine, Goggin and captain Becca Fay both intercepting to break up the attack. Royston build well on the left Chambers on for Tinsley she plays it in field to Rutherford a clever back heel to tee up South 25 yards out she connects well with the shot, looping in doesn’t have the height to beat goalkeeper Tee Mhunduru as she takes it high.
Charlotte South on the ball for Royston Town Ladies
Penny with the ball right wing for Cambridge puts a cross in towards the top of the area central for Davies she lays it to Simmons on her right getting her foot up over the ball she shoots, Walford throwing her arms up makes the blocking save drifting across her goal. Cambridge press the attack numbers forwards through the middle Shaw with it is brought down right on the edge of the box a free-kick right of the D. Penny on it goes for goal her strike over the bar.
Royston Town Ladies, Danielle Carty
Danielle Carty winning the ball in the middle for Royston played out to Tinsley left her forwards pass into the run of South the ball getting tangled under her feet she can’t dig it out for a shot before Flye and Goggin close her down. Samantha Edgar through the middle for Royston on for Elderd breaking right she swings a cross in towards the top of the area, Hannah Bodily back to slide in and win it back for Cambridge.
Cambridge City Ladies, Hannah Bodily
Royston are hit on the counter Cambridge looking to play Simmons through racing after the ball, Walford comes racing out of her box a long way out but sliding in has to win the ball the clearance could go anywhere falls straight to Shaw she hits it early a long way out central hoping to find the empty net Walford racing back lets out a breath as it runs wide of the post. Royston are attempting all sorts to find a way through the Cambridge back line some good link up play the final ball just won’t come off. Tinsley working hard on the left a cross fired in deep towards the far post Mhunduru jumping to claim it does well under challenge to just about hold onto it.
Sammy Tinsley
Simmons gets away on the left in behind shifts inside before taking on a 25 yard shot the attempt bouncing wide across the face of goal. Royston build through the middle Edgar on for South played up to Rutherford in attack, left of the box, Tinsley making a good run to get inside her, Rutherford getting the ball into her run comes further infield looking to shot ends up being upended the free-kick awarded. Carty to take has a shot the ball straight into the arms of Mhunduru.
Sammy Tinsley battling with Cambridge’s Sarah Mosley for the ball.
Penny is fouled attacking wide right for Cambridge the free-kick level with the top of the area, players forwards the ball into the area cleared, Cambridge are quick to regain possession keep the attack alive play drawn left the cross comes in central Penny is their top of the six yard box the ball trapped under her feet, Chambers does really well to make the tackle deny the chance the ball cleared only as far as Mosley 25 yards out she shot back on sails over the bar.
Rutherford charges down a shot at the top of the box defending as Cambridge’s Penny wins her side a corner on the right.. The hosts look to break, Cambridge pressing the ball on halfway progress halted. Tinsley making ground on the left support from Rutherford brings a throw in the ball played in field to South, too far out for a shot looks for options, Cambridge as they have all through the 1st half not let anyone have time on the ball.
Half-time Royston Town Ladies 0-1 Cambridge City Ladies
An early lead for Cambridge, Shannon Shaw’s 3rd minute goal the difference between the sides going into the half-time interval. The visitors having further chances to extend the lead but none taken. Royston not getting the rub of the green in the final third have had some good build up play but on the whole Cambridge have been quick to close down and have been more rapid in the counter attack. The 1st half flying by, at 1-0 though still all to play for 2nd half.
No changes for either side at half-time, Royston to get the 2nd period underway, the rain petering out towards the end of the 1st half. The hosts going right look to get Eldred on the ball wins a throw in. Eldred making progress up the wing a low cross driven in towards the near post hits Fay as she races back in defence. Remains scrappy, niggly challenges stopping play. Lively in the centre of the park, Carty and Edgar battling with Bodily, Mosley and Davies.
Samantha Edgar bringing the ball on for Royston Town Ladies
Appeals for a penalty from Royston a powerful run from Rutherford trying to get the better of Tomlinson as she attacks left the striker into the box shoulder to shoulder with Goggin goes to ground as Mhunduru slides in to claim the ball. The appeals waved away, more frustration from the Royston bench. Royston showing more urgency at the start of the 2nd half, Rutherford supporting Eldred on the right a throw won, Carty receiving her cross charged down.
Royston’s Jo Rutherford with Cambridge’s Carla Penny
Rutherford leading the line well for Royston looks to spin in behind the Cambridge defence on halfway, Mosley reacting well getting back to help out and regain possession. Decisions continue to frustrate Royston on and off the field. Walford with a good claim from a cross swung in from the right from Penny. The winger substituted soon after on in her place 16-year-old Freya Standing.
Rutherford looking to spin in behind
Cambridge doing well to keep Royston from breaking quickly pressing the ball high up the pitch from their own attacking positions. Standing with a burst of pace on the right wing a cross fired in near post Walford coming to punch doing well under challenge to get it away. The rain starting to fall again, Carty coming off worse in a 50/50 challenge in the middle the ball striking her. Edgar with a great pass down the right finding Elderd can’t keep it in to cross on the byline.
Cambridge full back Lauren Tomlinson clearing the ball before Hayley Eldred can reach it for Royston
GOAL! Past the hour and Cambridge double their lead and it’s Shaw on the scoresheet for her 2nd goal of the match the attack building left the ball helped on finding Shaw peeling away from her marker driving on towards the area strikes the ball from the top of the area low with plenty of pace, Walford diving can only get her fingertips to it pushing the ball onto the post and into the back of the net 0-2.
Royston respond with a double change, off come Carty and Seymour, on in their places, Eva Ramsey and Paris Coldicott-Stevens. Royston’s frustrations continue passes just won’t fall, good runs the ball won by Cambridge, Flye on the right denying Rutherford as Tinsley plays the ball on.
GOAL! Cambridge go further ahead 5 minutes after going 2 up add a 3rd goal, have possession high n the left a throw in the ball put inside driven across the top of the Royston area, Standing on the that side gets her foot up over the ball to hit a well taken shot back across the keeper and into the bottom corner to score 0-3.
A further blow for Royston another double switch is made Cooper and Edgar the players coming off. Georgia Gannaway and Ellie Pickard coming on. Davies pushing on for Cambridge a diagonal ball fired into the box, Fisk lunging intercepts conceding the corner. The ball in towards the near post defended. Chambers tackling Simmons on the right as she attacks a corner given away, played in higher towards the near post attacked a Cambridge head on the ball sent over.
Eva Ramsey
Ramsey with a timely interception as Cambridge attack on their left Davies finding space playing it on for Shaw. The action end to end Royston attacking have a free-kick the ball pinging around at the top of the area a collision between Flye and Tinsley both players down, play goes on though as Cambridge break Simmons racing up the right with the ball at her feet a shot driven in Walford down saves well then scrambling after the loose ball as Simmons goes for it a corner is conceded play stopped and brought back to deal with the still grounded players in the opposite box. Both up after treatment are okay to continue.
Cambridge City Ladies, Anna Goggin
Up the other end the corner on the right into the area comes out to Mosley 30 yards out hits it back in a good effort straight at Walford the keeper pushing the ball up over her crossbar. Cambridge make their 2nd change Shaw coming off in attack Penny returning. Flye charges forwards with the ball at her feet sends it on for Simmons ahead of her right of goal blasts her shot wide of the mark. Ramsey getting time on the ball for Royston right plays Eldred in down the wing her looping cross into the Cambridge box won by Fay in the middle. Rutherford and Tinsley combine in attack for Royston driving on Rutherford putting the ball on for Tinsley shooting from 20 yards out Flye blocking.
Royston on the attack
Tomlinson breaking on the left for Cambridge sees Simmons central feeds her the pass taking in it Fisk with her Walford coming the defender knocks the ball wide of Simmons both going after it Simmons turning back to send a cross into the area, Pickard is there to head clear for Royston. The hosts work the ball well through the middle Coldicott-Stevens on for Tinsley plays it forwards Rutherford into the box has Gannaway to her left sends her the cross the attacker struggling to get the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away Fay closing her down.
Cambridge City Ladies, Erin Davies
South plays a dinked ball over the top of the Cambridge defence putting Rutherford through, goes to lob the keeper from outside the box, the right intention just not enough height to trouble Mhunduru. Into the closing minutes of the game a late change for Cambridge Bronte Rapley coming on for Mosley. Goggin tackles Rutherford inside her box late on as she receives the ball from a throw in. A loose goal kick from Walford intercepted by Simmons, Pickard does really well to get back on her make the tackle, Cambridge up attacking late on winning a corner defended but Cambridge prevent Royston from breaking as the final whistle blows and they make it 19 wins and a draw from 20 played.
Full time Royston Town Ladies 0-3 Cambridge City Ladies
Easy to see on this performance why Cambridge City Ladies are the champions played well throughout the team for the whole 90 minutes working hard to close the ball down, create opportunities, prevent their opponents from breaking. Scrappy at times but nevertheless an enjoyable match. Royston frustrated, some decisions not going their way, some great build up play, easy to see why they are doing so well themselves, it just wasn’t going to happen in the final 3rd today. The gap closed but 2nd position is still in their hands with 3 to play.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Royston, Sammy Tinsley was outstanding on the left of attack battling away getting forwards and trying to get the ball into the attackers linked up well with Rutherford. It was a fantastic all round team performance from Cambridge who are determined to try and end the season unbeaten. Worked hard to close the ball down all over the park, preventing Royston from breaking, and closing the door through the middle. Have to pick one however this is very close Sarah Mosley was excellent in midfield just misses out to Erin Davies whose work rate too was superb getting forwards well to support the attack.
That game flew by highly enjoyable the ball wasn’t still for long, another good advert for the ERWFL. Pleased t have finally gotten to Garden Walk this season even if it was no doubt the result Royston didn’t want me to see. Won’t be long before I’m seeing Cambridge City Ladies again, in midweek, their Development side at least as they begin their quest for a possible treble in the final of the Junior Invitation Cup against Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds on Thursday. My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details today.
A reduced fixture list across the county leagues in the East this weekend, Sunday being Mother’s Day just 15 games played across the whole of the region felt it easiest to place all the games in one edition of The Round-Up. A handful of games in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex & Beds & Herts.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Beginning in Norfolk, two matches played in Division One on Sunday. League Champions, Thorpe United Ladies playing their last game of the campaign away to Bungay Town Ladies. 12 wins and a single defeat in the 13 games played to date a successful league campaign for Thorpe bringing a number of youth players into the squad this season, have performed well the club running away with the leagues, injuries stretching them towards the end were looking to end on a high against a Bungay side starting to move in the right direction themselves after a difficult start to the season. Always competitive between the two a heavy defeat for Thorpe at Bungay last season, a better start to the game scoring twice to lead the game 2-0 at half-time. A competitive 2nd half saw Bungay fight back scoring 3 goals, Thorpe responding adding a further two goals to win the game 4-3. Captain Rebekah Lake finishing well clear as top scorer for Thorpe a goal on Sunday taking her to 18. Midfielder Laura Hedtke also into double figures for the season with a goal finishes on 11. Victoria McNorton and Millie Cursons also on the scoresheet. Selina Rowland, Grace Storey and Jody Wells getting the Bungay goals.
Gorleston Ladies up to 3rd in the Division One table have 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies in their sights, were at home this Sunday taking on 4th placed Sprowston Athletic Ladies. A close game a goal each for Sophie Gillett and Bethany Turner enough to win the game for Gorleston despite a goal from Kate Morris for Sprowston Athletic the hosts winning 2-1 move to within a point of Sprowston Ladies with a game in hand.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A first defeat in the league in women’s football for Norfolk Women’s Division Two leaders, Taverham United Women last Sunday losing 3-0 at home to in form Tavern Ladies. Taverham bouncing back straight away with an away win against bottom side Bulldogs Ladies this Sunday in the only match taking place in the division. The scores close at half-time with Taverham holding a narrow 1-0 advantage. The visitors getting the better of the 2nd half despite Bulldogs getting a goal themselves Taverham going on to score 3 more to win the game 4-1 to go 9 points clear at the top of the table, Hannah Artis bagging herself a hat-trick in the game along with a goal for top scorer Rebecca Sutton who now has 35 goals for the season.
Suffolk Women’s Division
Three league games played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday, East Bergholt United Ladies keeping their 6 point lead at the top of the table with a home win in a high scoring match with 3rd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies. The visitors scoring 3 goals, East Bergholt securing the 3 points hitting five in reply. Stacey Teager scoring a brace to move to 16 goals for the season. Another goal for Annie Northwood takes her to 33 for the campaign. Jessica Clark and Jessica Quinsee also scoring a goal a piece. 2nd placed Needham Market Women awarded the 3 points for a home win against Alresford Colne Rangers.
Brettvale Ladies keep up their good form in 2019 just the one defeat from 8 played. A point earned on the road this Sunday away to Leiston St Margaret Ladies. Pushing for a decent mid-table finish and a good platform to build on for next season. Tarnya McKew scoring her 18th goal for Brettvale since joining the game finishing 1-1.
A winning end to the season for Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, their first season in women’s football coming to an end at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. The team continuing to develop haven’t always got the points they deserved, looking for a new manager to take their development further. 1-0 up at half-time Brightlingsea made sure of a winning finish adding a further 2 goals 2nd half to win the game 3-1. Paige Knight, Jessica Scott and Lucy Tilbury with her 1st of the season the goalscorers. Felicia Harris with her first Chantry Grasshoppers goal.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Two games in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. League Cup action or lack of seeing Harlow Town Ladies lose ground in the league a comfortable victory at home on this weekend saw them climb back up to 3rd in the table. Were taking on Silver End United Ladies, 2-0 up at half-time, Harlow scoring a further 2 in the 2nd period to clinch the 3 points. Top scorer Hannah Smith amongst the goals with her 23rd of the season, 17 goals too now for Ellie Nicholls also getting a goal. Lucy Edmeades with a goal too with Ellie Wallace another new name amongst the goal scorers for Harlow this season with her first goal in just her 2nd appearance.
In the other game played on Sunday in the Essex Women’s Premier Division it was a 7 goal thriller between Corringham Cosmos and Southend United Ladies. Rebecca Gallagher getting hosts Corringham off to a great start scoring her 17th goal of the season in the opening minute. Southend getting back on level terms to see the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time. The visitors getting the better of the 2nd half a further 5 goals added to win the game 4-3. Michelle Sumpter on the hour and final minute for Corringham. Lily Halliday, Ria Toovey, Kate Wiseman and Lauren Johnson with the goals for Southend.
Essex Women’s Division One
One game taking place in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday with Chigwell Ladies at home to 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies. 46 goals now for Rayleigh Town captain Isabelle Wallings scoring a brace against Chigwell. Was Sunday’s top scorer however with a hat-trick for Holly Gash who herself moves onto 22 goals for the season. Millie Arnold also on the scoresheet with a goal along with Sophie Rhodes scoring on her Rayleigh Town debut in a 7-0 victory.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
The top sides bunch up again in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One with leaders Northwood Ladies not in action the chasing sides all picked up the 3 points to see just 4 points once again between the top 4. 3rd placed Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies awarded the home win over Sharnbrook, there were two matches played on Sunday.
2nd placed St Albans Ladies closing to within a point of Northwood winning away to bottom side, Garston Ladies 2nd XI. A fantastic start for the visitors 2-0 up inside the opening 6 minutes. Michaela Johnson making it 1-0 with less than a minute played, Molly Slade doubling the lead. Garston doing well to keep St Albans adding further goals, just 3 minutes left on the clock, St Albans doing 3-0 up, Slade with her 2nd of the match in the 87th minute, a 4th goal added in the final minute with Ellen Salter finding the back of the net for her 15th goal of the season.
A closer score for 4th placed Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires away to Sherrardswood Ladies on Sunday winning the 3 points with a 2-1 result to keep them right up with the league leaders in Division One.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
4 points from their remaining 2 league games will see Hitchin Belles win the Beds & Herts Division Two title. Move 7 points clear at the top with a comfortable home win over Evergreen Eagles on Sunday. Top scorer Katie White netting a hat-trick moves to 21 goals for the season. Amy Jack back amongst the goals with a brace to go to 18. With a brace to for Kiera How enjoying a good run in front of goal with 14 goals now for the season. Hitchin Belles winning the game 7-1. Sophie Kempsford on the scoresheet for Evergreen Eagles. Hitchin Town Ladies the side that can catch them with games in hand. Hitchin Belles last game of the season away to their local rivals.
2nd placed Letchworth Garden City Eagles ow title hopes dashed on Sunday as they lost away to 5th placed Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Captain Rebecca Freeman scoring twice as Evergreen continued their recent good form with a 4th straight league win to put them to within a point of 4th placed Royston Town Ladies Development with a game in hand.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two games too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. With leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development not in action it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses to close the gap at the top back to 4 points. Were away to Stotfold Juniors Ladies. Giselle Randall continuing her excellent season in front of goal for the visitors scoring a hat-trick to take her onto 24 goals for the season. The winning score 4-0 with Kodi Meader also on the scoresheet with her 1st of the season.
In the other game was 3rd versus 4th with Langford Ladies away to AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. A tight game between the sides goalless at half-time a single goal enough to win the points in the 2nd half, Kayleigh Humphries getting the goal the win taking Kempston Town & Bedford College back above Langford into 3rd place.
Cambridge City Ladies are the Champions! Has a familiar ring to it as they celebrate their 3rd league title and promotion in 4 seasons clinching the ERWFL Premier Division title this Sunday with 3 games left to spare. There rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid seeing their brief 3 year spell in the regional league to soon come to an end, could yet be the double into the last 4 of the League Cup.
Unbeaten in the league this season with just 2 points dropped from 18 played, building strongly on a runners-up finish last season, just 2 points needed this Sunday at home to 5th placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies who on paper with games in hand could yet catch them. The visitors struggling with numbers of late injuries and suspensions taking a toll travelled with a bare 11. Cambridge in confident mood goalscorers throughout their side won the game by 4 goals to nil to finish the job, Erin Davies, Bella Simmons and Anna Goggin amongst the goalscorers. Have had a fantastic season, congratulations for all the players, coaches and supporters on the title, promotion and look forwards to seeing you in the FAWNL.
Cambridge City Ladies – ERWFL Premier Division Champions (picture credit Cambridge City)
Royston Town Ladies are also enjoying a strong season in the ERWFL Premier Division, up to 2nd in the table lay 4 points clear of 3rd placed Acle United Women with both having 4 games left to play. Were away from home this Sunday taking on AFC Dunstable Ladies. The host struggling to get a side with just the 8 available, a fighting spirit amongst them and aren’t prepared to roll over, new additions coming the squad and outlook positive for the future. Royston running out 5-0 winners in the finish taking the lead trough Samantha Edgar. Rebekah Fisk doubling the lead, the other goals scored by a pair of ex-Dunstable players, Charlotte South with two strikes from distance getting a brace with Danielle Carty adding the visitors 5th goal.
A successful trip down to Essex for Acle United Women on Sunday the Norfolk side making the long trip down south to play Brentwood Town Ladies. Acle starting well taking the lead on 9 minutes with Lauren Bullard the goalscorer. Pressing the attack Rhianne Brister doubling the lead scoring at the far post just past the half hour mark. 2-0 up at the break, Acle got the 2nd half off to the perfect start extending their lead, Bullard’s back heel finding Kirstie Kindred to make it 3-0 at the near post. Brentwood pulling it back to 3-1 through Kirsty Knight on the hour. Acle restoring their 3 goal cushion with 80 minutes left to play with captain Anna Larkins sending a shot past the keeper. A 4-1 win for Acle taking them back up to 3rd in the Premier Division table.
A high scoring match also in the ERWFL Premier Division between Haringey Borough Women & Bedford Ladies this Sunday. Hosts Haringey scoring 3 goals it wasn’t enough to get anything from the game however as visitors Bedford hit them for 7 up the other end to win the 3 points and put the pressure back on the sides in the top half of the table.
ERWFL Division One
League leaders, St Ives Town Ladies not in action this Sunday in ERWFL Division One it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies to look to close the 9 point gap. Fresh from winning the Essex Women’s Trophy last Sunday, the Essex side had a long trip up to Norfolk this Sunday to play King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A brace from Georgia Fraser seeing Bowers & Pitsea leading the game 2-0 at half time. Fraser going on to complete her hat-trick on the hour to move ahead a top scorer with 16 goals for the season. Eloise Ives also getting her name on the scoresheet with Bowers & Pitsea’s 4th goal in the final 15 minutes. King’s Lynn reduced to 10 with Charlotte Griffith shown 2 yellows.
A hat-trick for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies, Georgia Fraser
For the 2nd game in a row Chloe Slater scored direct for a corner kick for Newmarket Town Ladies, the goal earning the side 3rd in Division One a point on the road taking on Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. The game all square at 1-1.
Stevenage Ladies Reserves move back up to 4th in the ERWFL Division One table winning away from home on Sunday against Histon Ladies. The visitors taking an early lead at The Glassworld Stadium 1-0 up in the 7th minute. Histon fighting back to level the scores in the 33rd minute a superb individual goal from Georgia Day picking up the ball outside the box keeping possession well before turning her marker and getting away a shot into the top corner. 1-1 at half-time Stevenage getting back into the lead midway through the 2nd half. A 3rd goal added deep into stoppage time to ensure the 3 points, Faith Greene, Emily Schofield and Naomi Sleator with the goals.
Hatfield Peveral Ladies were hosting Lawford Ladies this Sunday, meeting again after a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture a month ago. Lawford with games in hand looking to build on a spirited performance in last Sunday’s Essex Women’s Trophy final. A couple of new faces in their squad Lawford came home with the 3 points clinching a narrow 2-1 victory, captain Daisy Canny with her 16th goal of the season with Susan Jackson also celebrating a goal. Megan Warner wit the goal for Hatfield Peverel.
We begin this weeks Round-Up with a defeat for the league leaders in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, this Sunday saw Coventry United Ladies 15 game run come to an end as they lost at home for the first time this season in the league at home to 3rd placed Chichester City Ladies. Coventry getting off to a great start going in front inside the opening 10 minutes defender Nikki Miles heading home from a corner kick t make it 1-0. Chichester getting back on level terms in the 34th minute, Molly Clark fouled 30 yards out taking the resulting free-kick and scoring to make it 1-1. The visitors getting the lead in the final minute of the first half awarded another free-kick, Clark firing it into the back of the net. Chichester holding the advantage a good period of injury time to complete the 1st half.
Into the 2nd half a close contest so far, Chichester clearing the ball off their goal line early in the 2nd period, the lead extended in the 64th minute from another Clark free-kick, this time Kim Stenning volleying home to make it 3-1. Coventry getting it back to 3-2 with 20 minutes left to play Amy Wathan scoring her 20th of the season, Chichester defending as Coventry pushed hard for a 3rd goal themselves didn’t come Chichester the side to end Coventry’s unbeaten record.
That defeat for Coventry sees Cardiff City Ladies close the gap on the leaders to just 3 points as they won at home this Sunday. Taking on Kent side, Gillingham Ladies, Emma Jones scoring a brace for the Welsh side for the 2nd game in a row to clinch Cardiff the 3 points to extend their winning run t 9 matches in the Southern Premier Division. Jones fining the bottom corner to make it 1-0 midway through the 1st half the lead doubled deep into 1st half injury time. Cardiff defending their lead Gillingham exerting pressure unable to pull a goal back themselves. 3 points between Cardiff and Coventry who do have a match in hand the two sides have yet to meet in the league, 2 interesting games in prospect.
Fourth placed Oxford United Women travelled to the South West on Sunday to take on Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The visitors falling behind from a hotly disputed corner a shot fired in goalkeeper Lucy Davies saving but in doing so falling and seeing the ball carried over the line. Midway through the 1st half Oxford were reduced to 10 with captain Lauren Haynes already shown a yellow given a 2nd for a late tackle. Despite this Oxford pressed Plymouth looking for an equalising goal the hosts keeping them at bay to collect the 3 points.
Portsmouth FC Women were looking to build on their midweek victory at home to Chichester City Ladies this Sunday as they took on 5th placed Loughborough Foxes Women at home. The lead 2-0 to the hosts at the break, Portsmouth taking the lead via the penalty spot, Rachel Panting scoring after Shannon Albuery was brought down inside the area. Panting with a double scoring her 14th goal of the season in the 35th minute. No further goals added in the 2nd period a good response from Portsmouth having lost 3-0 at home to Cardiff last Sunday.
Late drama at the Stadium MK this Sunday with 3 goals scored in the final 6 minutes of the match. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies taking on Watford Ladies. The game goalless for the first 84 minutes, Watford captain Helen Ward put through on goal to put Watford 1-0 with her 18th strike of the season. Adekite Fatuga-Dada putting Watford 2-0 just 3 minutes later. The 3 points secured despite Milton Keynes getting it back to 2-1 in stoppage time with Alice Hughes on the scoresheet as they pressed Watford at the end.
FAWNL South East Division One
In FAWNL South East Division One the champagne remains on ice for Crawley Wasps Ladies. Unbeaten in 32 league matches in a period over 2 years Crawley needed one more positive result at home to 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies to clinch the title in the debut season in the FAWNL. Sunday’s home venue the Peoples Pension Stadium home of Crawley Town FC. Billericay too enjoying a great debut season in the FAWNL themselves, the Essex side getting their tactics spot on with goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles producing some top saves to keep Crawley out. Danica Dougal given the opportunity to fire Billericay into the lead sending the ball high past the keeper to win the game 1-0. Five games left for Crawley, two wins needed.
A good weekend all round for the visiting sides in South East Division One with 4 wins and a draw in total. Actonians Ladies back up to 4th in the table scoring a last gaps winner to beat Enfield Town Ladies, in 4th going into the match. A close contest, Enfield taking an early lead in the match Katherine Long firing them in front inside 5 minutes. Actonians getting back on level terms on the half hour with top scorer Alessandra Barreca scoring her 22nd of the campaign. The game tied at 1-1 heading into 2nd half stoppage time Barreca found the back of the net for the 2nd time in the game to win it for Actonians at the death.
Cambridge United WFC are up to their highest position of the season in FAWNL South East Division One, climbing up to 5th on Sunday as their recent good form continues, this time last month were as low as 10th in the table. County Cup success in that spell too were away to bottom side Luton Town Ladies. The pair often enjoying a competitive tussle the hosts taking an early lead a scramble in the box form a corner Nicola Henman making it 1-0 in the 2nd minute. Cambridge coming back to level in the 11th minute Mollie Coupar with a sweetly struck half-volley. The lead doubled with 10 minutes left in the first half Coupar with time to line up a shot firing in to make it 2-1. The youngster completing her hat-trick minutes later getting hold of the ball from a poorly struck goalkick and lobbing the ball in to celebrate her 10th goal of the season. Cambridge getting themselves into a 4-1 lead with Becky Sheppard firing in a fantastic strike for her 9th of the season in the 41st minute.
The damage done Luton managing to pull a goal back with 12 minutes left Remi Bains making it 4-2, Cambridge on the up. Announcing this week they will be moving to St Neots Town FC form next season ending their time at Mildenhall Town FC, a club that has embraced women’s football since their arrival and I’d love to see something come off the back of their relationship with Cambridge United WFC.
An away win too and a vital 3 points won for Denham United Ladies on Sunday the 2nd bottom side winning for just the 3rd time this season against Stevenage Ladies. Lauren Cox’s first half goal the difference between the sides, Denham goalkeeper Lizzie Rose making some important saves in the match too.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies were moments away from completing an away win themselves against Norwich City Ladies only to concede a late goal to see the points shared. Hannah Baptiste firing Wimbledon into the lead on 32 minutes at Plantation Park, Norwich pressing late on getting it back to 1-1 with Ellen Swift scoring the goal making her 1st appearance of the season coming on with 15 minutes left. New signing Megan Todd also making her 1st appearance for her new club joining from Acle United Women.
