One more Round-Up for 2019 then I will be enjoying the festive period along with the rest of you. Not that I don’t enjoy writing these because I do fascinating reporting on the league and cup action across the East of England each weekend. The Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and Championship both expanded this season offering plenty of action and drama the Premiership title race in particular wide open going into the New Year the Championship may well be closer than it looks come the end of the season.
The weather unfortunately playing it’s part once again with just 6 games surviving. Two from the Premiership. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves going top on goal difference last weekend joining Leverington Sports Ladies and Haverhill Rovers Ladies on 15 points off the back of 3 straight wins. A 3-0 win at home to ICA Sports Ladies then the pair meeting in the reverse fixture this weekend. A different story this time around as ICA Sports Ladies put themselves firmly back in the title race. Leading Peterborough 2-0 at half-time a strong 2nd half saw them add a further 5 without reply to win 7-0 and in doing so close the gap to the leading trio to a point. Eleanor Scotland making just her 2nd appearance for ICA Sports scoring her first goals for the side netting a hat-trick. Carmen Herridge scoring a brace along with a goal each for Lorna Hart making her first appearance of the season and a first too for Aimee Exposito.
A great start to the season for Leverington Sports Ladies following promotion to the Premiership (as Wisbech Town Ladies) in a 3 way lead at the top of the table a point won at the weekend seeing them end the year top of the pile in Cambridgeshire. Looking to bounce back from last weekend loss at home to Cambridge University Women were hosting Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The pair ending up sharing 10 goals, Fulbourn involved in several high scoring encounters this season. The visitors enjoying a fantastic start to the match racing into a 3-0 lead. Leverington taking a while to settle coming back into the match Vicky Lines making her debut for the club pulling it back to 3-1 set up by Sophie Swinden. Chloe Stanborough adding a 2nd as Leverington slowly build momentum Fulbourn though hitting a 4th goal in late in the first half to see them leading 4-2 at the break. Leverington captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a brilliant goal on the volley to get it back to 3-4. Fulbourn always a threat going forwards Marie Stubbings through to score her 3rd of the game and 18th overall to put Fulbourn 5-3 up the game heading into the final quarter hour. Stanborough driving a shot home to pull it back to 5-4. 9 goals cored so far and Sophie Swinden didn’t have any of them, Leverington’s top scorer not going to be left out firing in her 18th goal of the season to level it up at 5-5, Lines very nearly winning it for Leverington her shot smashing off the crossbar late on the sides sharing the points Lisa Grimes with her first of the season and Ebony Rule the other goal scorers for Fulbourn.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Four matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend and Cambridge Rangers Women end a fantastic 2019 top of the 14 strong league with a 100% record winning 10 in a row. Were at home to Cambourne United Women this Sunday. A strong first half seeing them leading 5-0 went onto add a further 2 in the 2nd half whilst keeping a clean sheet up the other end. Another brace for Daniella Lewis 15 goals now for the clubs top scorer. The other five goals shared amongst the squad with Stephanie Rowan and Erica Balskute scoring their 7th goals of the campaign, Claire Kyndt her 5th and first goals of the season for Ruth Telfer and Lisa Wears. Cambridge Rangers 7 points clear at the top.
Also ending the year with a 100% winning record are Pinchbeck United Ladies albeit from just the 6 played, alot of football to be played in the New Year. Pinchbeck continuing their 100% winning start at the expense of another as they travelled to played Cardea Ladies who themselves have played just 5 so far this season. Another high scoring encounter the pair sharing a 9 goal thriller. Cardea having the better of the 2nd half leading the game 4-2 Pinchbeck fought back in the 2nd half to score 3 times to nick the win 5-4. Libby Friel making just her 2nd appearance for Pinchbeck scoring on her debut netting a hat-trick this time around. Courtney Walker with a brace taking over as top scorer with 9. Pinchbeck up to 3rd on 18 points
A strong end to 2019 for Newmarket Town Women Development sees them climb up into 5th spot in the Championship table unbeaten now in 5 games with 4 won they were hosting Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday. Striker Sarah O’Rourke scoring 4 goals in the match Newmarket building on a good 3-0 half-time lead to win the game 8-0. There were braces too for Brooke Wickens and Leah Harper.
A positive end to 2019 too for Park Ladies as they make it back to back wins to move up to 7th in the Championship table coming into this Sunday’s match off an 8-0 win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies were at home taking on Deeping United Ladies. Late pressure paying off for Park as they clinched a 2-1 victory. Onto 14 points in mid-table well placed to kick on in the New Year.
Another quarter final tie played in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup this Sunday and a huge test for young side Herts Vipers top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three as they played host to FAWNL South east Division One side Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. Herts Vipers though full of confidence a 100% winning start to the league. A competitive tussle Herts Vipers fighting all the way taking their higher league opponents all the way to extra-time. Stevenage taking the lead in the 10th minute awarded a free-kick 35 yards out Tamsyn Sibanda lifting it in over the keeper. Nicole Jancey firing in the goals for Herts Vipers getting them back on level terms just past the half hour with her 34th goal of the season. Stevenage coming straight back to retake the lead Amy Josland firing home her first of the season to give Stevenage a 2-1 lead at the break. Further opportunities for Stevenage to extend their lead 2nd half Herts Vipers though coming back to level the scores with 15 minutes left to play Jancey with her 2nd of the game completed a hat-tick a minute later to put Herts Vipers 3-2 ahead. Stevenage fighting back to level it up at 3-3 with 6 minutes left to play Josland setting up Katie Knell to send the tie into extra-time. A mix-up at the back for Herts Vipers seeing an own goal scored, Stevenage advancing to the last four of the Challenge Cup. Watford Ladies Development also through awarded the win against Sherrardswood Ladies. Colney Heath Ladies already through just one semi-final spot to be decided between Garston Ladies 1st team and holders Watford Ladies U23s.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
A limited programme to end the year across the 3 divisions in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League. Two matches in Division One on Sunday and 2019 ends on a positive note for Hitchin Belles as they secured their first point in the league on Sunday away to Houghton Athletic Ladies. Amy Jack’s 60th minute goal seeing them draw 1-1 with Houghton Athletic whose goal was scored by Bethany Phillips.
Northwood Ladies climb up a place to 3rd in the Division One table to within a point of 2nd placed St Albans Ladies as they recorded a 5th straight league win at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles at the weekend. Joanne Horwood scoring a hat-trick for Northwood, their was also a brace each for Emma Marshall and top scorer Emma Steele who now has 12 for the season along with a goal for Danielle Tyler her first of the season. Northwood winning the match 8-1. Tayla Murray with the goal for Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
It was an intense battle at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three last season between, AFC Dunstable Women Blues, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and Langford Ladies last season all four going up to Division Two, the battle at the top is no less furious this time around with all 4 firmly in contention just 3 points between them. Three of the four in action this weekend in the two matches played in the league.
AFC Dunstable Women Blues defending a 100% winning start travelling to play Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses who themselves have lost just the once this season. Nicola Hollick with her 20th goal of the season firing Dunstable into the lead inside 7 minutes. Woburn & Wavendon back level before the opening quarter hour Giselle Randell with her 10th of the season making it 1-1. Charlie Bedford with her first goal of the season putting Woburn & Wavendon in front just 3 minutes later. Laura Taylor adding a 3rd for the hosts late in the first half to see them 3-1 up at the break. Dunstable pulling it back to 3-2 in the 63rd minute with Courtney McNamara getting her name on the scoresheet. Pushing for an equaliser Woburn & Wavendon get up the other end to score a 4th goal with 10 minutes left. Randall securing a 5-2 victory for Woburn & Wavendon with 2 minutes left. Join Dunstable on 15 points 3rd and 4th in the table.
18 points for 2nd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies again losing just the once this season a matching record for Langford Ladies who take over the lead on goal difference with a double figure home win against bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. Two players celebrating hat-tricks for Langford, top scorer Amber Clark who now has 12 for the season and the first of the season for Chloe Scott who scored 21 herself last season. 10-0 the final score their was also a brace each for Rebecca Reeve and Leah Holmes.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One game played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three at the weekend Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies a high scoring match between the sides a good first half from Flitwick saw them leading 3-1 at the break thanks to goals from Sammy Beharry and Anna Bright plus a first of the campaign for Casey Tutt. Bedwell Rangers picking up their game in the 2nd period coming back to level the scores adding a further two goals to win 5-3 to end the year back up to 5th spot in the table.
Needham Market Women Reserves return to the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division as they extend their 100% winning start to the season to 10 matches going back above Brettvale Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Needham market were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies on Sunday. Isabel Chapman scoring her first of the season to see Needham Market leading 1-0 at half-time. Further chances coming 2nd half Sasha Diston hitting the post before Jemma Wessels doubled the advantage with her first goal of the season with 20 minutes left to play, Wessels on the scoresheet again with 10 minutes to go to ensure the 100% winning record continued.
Action from Needham Market Women Reserves v Brantham Athletic Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Ben Pooley Photography)
Hot on the heels of the leading pair are Bury Town Ladies, just 3 points back losing just one of their opening 10 matches of the season to date. Were at home this Sunday in the league hosting, the team starting the day in 3rd spot Alresford Colne Rangers. Norma Locker firing Bury into an early lead, Alresford coming straight back to level the scores with Abigail Chambers scoring her first goal of the season. Bury are scoring plenty of goals this season with scorers spread amongst the squad, Mia Banbury putting Bury 2-1 up with her 9th of the season Hayley Turner then scoring to put the hosts 3-1 ahead. Alresford pulling a goal back from the penalty spot with Jasmine Turner firing home to see the visitors trailing 3-2 at the break. A strong 2nd half from Bury seeing them score a further 4 goals to win the game 7-2. Locker and Turner both scoring again with Stacey Roper adding her name to the scoresheet plus an own goal, Bury climbing above Alresford into 3rd spot.
Another side looking to threaten the leaders are Holland Ladies climbing up another place move into fifth like Bury losing just the one league game so far this season. Were hosting Woodbridge Town Ladies who occupied fifth spot at the start of the day, in good form themselves coming into the match. A good spread of goalscorers amongst their squad, Holland found the back of the net for six goals on Sunday to beat Woodbridge 6-1. Becky McDougall top scoring in the game completing a hat-trick to take her into double figures for the season. Top scorer Jasmine Cox once again amongst the goals, one enough to take her onto 20 for the season. Lauren Bourne also into double figures with a goal has 10 for the campaign with Michelle Hodgson also celebrating a goal. 6 points between the top 6 sides now.
Just as competitive below, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies continue to enjoy a strong season, hold onto 7th spot with their 6th victory of the season at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Hannah Goldsmith firing Brightlingsea into a 4th minute lead. Chantry Grasshoppers coming back to level in the 20th minute. Brightlingsea responding straight away to retake the lead Paige Knight on target with her 12th of the season, Lucy Tilbury with her 13th of the season soon adding a 3rd goal for the hosts Goldsmith with her 2nd of the game seeing Brightlingsea race into a 4-1 lead with just half an hour played, Goldsmith completing a first half hat-trick late on her 19th goal of the season seeing Brightlingsea 5-1 up at the break. A less eventful 2nd half, Chantry Grasshoppers pulling a goal back midway through the 2nd period Brightlingsea securing the win. Bernice Corney and Sam Elliot scoring the goals for Chantry Grasshoppers.
Henley Athletic Ladies came into Sundays home match against AFC Kesgrave Ladies off the back of 5 straight defeats in the league that run coming to an end at last as they clinched their first win since the end of October. Emma Long scoring a hat-trick to move onto 8 for the season and a brace from Megan Tucker sealing victory. 5-0 the final score.
Has been a very difficult start to the season for University of Suffolk Women tough all round since joining the league last season, often not having the numbers available on match days suffering so eye watering defeats. Despite that have remained in good spirits and recieved plenty of plaudits from their fellow league clubs. 11 straight losses, University of Suffolk Women tasted victory for the first time this season as they collected their first 3 points at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies at the weekend. University of Suffolk capitalising on a slow start by their opponents to get themselves into a 2 goal lead Sarah Nash scoring her first goals for the club. Ramsey & Mistley pushing them hard to find a reply, University of Suffolk held them off going on to score a 3rd goal to win 3-0, Nash going to to wrap up a hat-trick.
A busy Sunday of fixtures to end the year in the Norfolk Women’s County League’s, just the one fixture called off, Tavern Ladies home match against Sprowston Athletic Ladies in Division One. 4 matches were played in Division One however at the weekend and a big win for Thorpe United Ladies sees them stay six points clear at the top of the table with their 100% winning start now extended to 9 matches. Were taking on Long Stratton Women at home, scoring plenty of goals none more so than captain Rebekah Lake smashing home a double hat-trick to take her onto 26 goals for the season, a strong 2nd half in particular seeing Thorpe finish 10-2 winners, also on the scoresheet, midfielders Laura Hedtke and Alice Ladbrooke with their 6th and 5th goals respectfully, Millie Cursons and Aneliese Smith with her first goal of the season. Ellie Sostman with her first of the season and captain Samantha Walker scoring for Long Stratton who finish 2019 on 10 points 8th in Division One following promotion last season.
A double hat-trick for Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake at the weekend
Thorpe with the only unbeaten record in Division One now after Sprowston Ladies ended Tavern Ladies 100% winning start last time out to move into 2nd spot in the league. Travelled down to Thetford on Sunday to play another promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts finding some form playing at a higher level in recent weeks. Sprowston though like Thorpe have a goalscorer piling them in this season, Victoria Leyer going toe to toe with Rebekah Lake scoring 4 at the weekend to give her 27 goals so far this campaign. Abby Hutchin also scoring a goal at the weekend to see Sprowston wrap up a 5-0 win.
27 goals so far this season for Sprowston’s Victoria Leyer
Keeping pace with Sprowston in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies matching their tally of 21 points 3rd on goal difference have lost just the once this season that to Thorpe, were at home this Sunday taking on another of the promoted sides Fakenham Town Ladies who they beat heavily 10-0 on the opening day of the season back in September. Fakenham finding their feet in the league since then fighting their way up to 5th spot in the league. An improvement upon the first game of the season despite their keeper travelling and being unable to play due to an issue with her glasses. Fakenham nevertheless battling managing to restric Bungay to 3 goals this time around. Lauren Purling scoring a brace her first goals of the season for Bungay and Selina Rowland with her 11th of the season securing the 3 points.
A tough start to the season for Freethorpe Ladies promoted up to Division One never going to be easy no points on the board after 8 played spirits have kept high, their final match of 2019 at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves whom they played on the opening day of the season Wymondham winning 2-0 then. Claire Garner captaining Freethorpe scoring a brace her first goals of the season. Samantha Shaw also saving from the penalty spot, were edged out by the odd goal to lose 3-2. A brace for captain Rebecca Carver and a goal for Alexandra Denes seeing Wymondham end a poor run their last win coming back in October climb up to 7th in the Division One table.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Stalham Town Ladies running away with the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two end 2019 9 points clear of the rest of the pack. Losing just the one so far from 9 played 7 wins and a draw their latest 3 points coming at home to Hockering Ladies on Sunday. Sarah-Jayne O’Connor scoring a hat-trick at the weekend to double her tally for the season for Stalham with top scorer Amber Mayhew striking home a brace to give her 14 for the season. Stalham winning the game 5-1.
A positive result for Mulbarton away to North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday could have seen them end the year in 2nd spot in Division Two. Mixed fortunes so far though for a club born in the summer and rapidly growing. North Walsham reentering a side into women’s football in Norfolk this season, young finding their feet 2 wins so far this season, picked up their 3rd to end the year on a high as they narrowly beat Mulbarton 2-1 to climb up onto 9 points joining a cluster of sides well placed to kick on in the New Year. Keira Brown and Rhiannon Holt with her 7th goal of the season helping North Walsham to the win. Amy Coaker scoring her 5th goal of the season for Mulbarton.
Also joining the cluster of sides in the middle of the table on 9 points are Horsford Women made it back to back wins in fact after victory over North Walsham last weekend, 2-1 then a much bigger scoreline this time around at home to Red Rose Ladies. Leading 2-1 at half-time Horsford went on to dominate the 2nd half to win the match 9-1. Natalie Roope top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. A brace each for Ella Wright and Sophie Nabarro, the latter’s first goals for Horsford. A first goal too for Nicola Fordham and one from Amanda Vincent.
Everyone of the mark at last in Division Two as Bulldogs Ladies celebrate their first win of the season and a convincing one too away to newcomers Waveney Ladies on Sunday. Has been a tough season and a half for the club so far with some heavy defeats along the way. A different story this weekend. Leading Waveney 2-0 at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals without reply 2nd half to win 5-0. Hannah Etcitty making just her third appearance for Bulldogs scoring a hat-trick her first goals for the club. Rachel Hardy with a brace too has 7 so far this season.
The final weekend of fixtures for 2019 in the ERWFL this weekend, the weather unfortunately playing it’s part with 4 of the 6 fixtures scheduled in the Premier Division falling by the way side. A healthy lead at the top for Harlow Town Ladies would ensure they go into the festive period top of the pile no mater what. A close battle behind the Essex side with the top half tightly congested. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies climbing into 2nd last weekend were aiming to close the gap to Harlow as they took on Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at the weekend. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Jessica Driscoll put through on goal from the left to score. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores in the 21st minute Sade Waters with the through ball for Yasmin Cowley to round the keeper and make it 1-1. The sides drawing at the interval. Bowers & Pitsea having opportunities in front of goal denied by Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Peterborough retaking the lead with 20 minutes left Chanade Henderson with the goal to make it 2-1. Top scorer Leah Cudone on target for her 14th strike of the season five minutes later to see Peterborough win the game 3-1 and open up a 5 point gap in the sides below.
Jessica Driscoll looking to take on the Bowers & Pitsea defence (photo credit James Cox Photos)
Wroxham Women made the long journey down to North London on Sunday to play bottom side Haringey Borough Women in the Premier Division a win would put them back up into 3rd spot, as it was they left it late to salvage a point, the sides goalless at the break despite Wroxham having numerous opportunities to score whilst goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook prevented Haringey from finding the opener. The hosts breaking the deadlock in the 2nd period came very close to getting their first win of the season the game a minute into stoppage time Kirstie Kindred struck to find the back of the net to score her 5th goal of the season and see Wroxham take home a point. Move into 4th level with 3rd placed Royston and 5th placed Luton on 20 points.
ERWFL Division One North
One match affected by the weather in ERWFL Division One North this weekend, top of the table Cambridge City Ladies Development home match against Needham Market Women off. An opportunity for the chasing sides to close the gap one again. East Bergholt United Ladies 2nd in the table drawing 0-0 at home to Newmarket Town Women last weekend made the trip to Norfolk this Sunday to play in form King’s Lynn Town Ladies, moving up the table fast into 3rd winning their last 4 league matches in a row a run that began away to East Bergholt back in October. A close 2-1 result then, nothing close about it this time around a King’s Lynn’s winning streak moved to 5 matches, scoring 6 without reply, 3 players all celebrating a brace, captain and top scorer Becky Russell into double figures for the season, 8 goals now for Tiffany Forshaw with Emma Corbyn on 6. The result takes King’s Lynn 2nd in the table now just a point behind Cambridge City.
A big home win at the weekend too for Newmarket Town Ladies, soon to be under new management. Craig Boneham coming in during the summer stepping down from the role. Newmarket moving swiftly to appoint Kevin Parsons taking over as first team manager. Looking on this weekend with Eddie Cuthbert looking after the team as they took on bottom side Gorleston Ladies. A brace from top scorer Annabel Cuthbert and a long range strike from Katie Webb seeing Newmarket lead 3-0 at half-time. Cuthbert completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half her first of the afternoon would go on to score 3 more goals to give her 22 for the season, Sarah O’Rourke with her first goal for the first team also as Newmarket ran out 8-0 winners. Up to 4th in the table despite an indifferent start to the season. Congratulations too t Newmarket midfielder and dead ball specialist, Jess Linger as at just 20-years-old she made her 100th appearance for the club at the weekend.
A double hat-trick at the weekend for Newmarket Town Women striker Annabel Cuthbert (photo credit Gary Reed)
Elsewhere in ERWFL Division One North it was a clash between two sides showing recent good form in the league Histon Ladies travelling to play AFC Sudbury Ladies, the Suffolk side coming into the game off back to back victories, Histon winning their last 3 league matches. The sides contesting a goalless draw after 90 minutes to share the points. Histon in 5th on 11 points now with Sudbury a place and point behind both well positioned to push on in the New Year.
ERWFL Division One South
Millwall Lionesses end 2019 top of the pile in ERWFL Division One South moving ahead of Hutton Ladies who weren’t in action at the weekend. Millwall were at home taking on Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Unbeaten in the league Millwall level on points with Leigh Ramblers heading into the game the visitors showing good from with 3 straight wins in league and cup themselves. Hannah Cheeseman opening the scoring for Millwall in the 10th minute, putting away Shannan Drewe’s left wing cross. Few chances in the first half Leigh Ramblers with a strong finish Millwall holding onto their 1-0 advantage. Drewe amongst the goals in recent games for Millwall firing in a worldie early in the 2nd half to put the hosts 2-0 up. A strong start to the 2nd half Millwall adding a 3rd on the hour with Cheeseman putting away her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later Leigh Ramblers given a penalty pulling it back to 3-1. Drewe put in behind the defence to fire in across the goal to put Millwall 4-1 up and see them win the game and climb to the top of the table dropping just 2 points so far this season.
At the other end of the ERWFL Division One South table it was a much welcomed first 3 points of the season for Wodson Park Ladies as they travelled to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies at the weekend. The hosts with just the one win themselves Wodson Park losing their opening 6 matches. Leah Dunnage and Sam Garner with their first goals of the season for Hoddesdon. A brace for Christie Seakins her first goals of the season for Wodson Park and a 4th of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay seeing the visitors edge the win 3-2, takes them off the bottom on goal difference.
One match played in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday with 3rd placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies travelling to play mid-table Oxford United Women. A narrow 5-4 loss to league leaders Watford Ladies last time out Plymouth were looking to get back to winning ways keep up the pressure on the top of the table. Chances for both in the first half, the visitors scoring late in the first half with top scorer Natasha Knapman forcing home her 21st goal of the season. Oxford responding straight away getting back on level terms with Georgia Timms poking the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1. That the scoreline heading into the final 2 minutes Oxford awarded a free-kick right on the edge of the area in a central position, Kayleigh Hines with a superbly struck free-kick lifting the ball over the wall and into the top corner. Oxford winning the game 2-1 late on climb up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table 3 points behind Plymouth who suffer back to back defeats.
FAWNL Cup
Essex side Billericay Town Ladies currently 3rd in FAWNL South East Division One headed to Buckinghamshire on Sunday to play South West Division One side Chesham United Ladies in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup. Billericay have lost just the once in the league this season Chesham taking the lead in the first half through top scorer Gemma Fraser running onto a through ball to score her 16th goal of the season. A narrow lead at half-time both keeper called into action Billericay pushed for a reply 2nd half, Chesham keeping them at bay to clinch victory and progress to the quarter finals of the competition.
FAWNL Plate
One 2nd Round tie from the FAWNL Plate also played this Sunday postponed from last weekend, Southern Premier Division side, Chichester City Ladies away to South West Division One side, Cheltenham Town Ladies. Switched to a 3G surface to avoid disappointment for the 2nd Sunday running. A quickfire double in the 36th and 37th minute saw Chichester get themselves into a 2-0 lead. A strike from distance finding the bottom corner in first half stoppage time to see the visitors 3-0 up. Progress in the competition assured with a little over 20 minutes left as Chichester added a 4th goal headed in from a corner, bottom of the league Chichester will be hoping for another positive result next Sunday at home to fellow strugglers Hounslow Women.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two matches surviving in FAWNL South East Division One at the weekend. League leaders Ipswich Town Women seeing their game called off it was an opportunity for the only other unbeaten side to close the gap to the top as 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled to play Actonians Ladies. Kick-off later in the day under the lights, Actonians themselves in a good run of form unbeaten in 6 in all competitions coming into the match winning 5 of those matches. Wimbledon with the better of the first half but no goals to show for it as the pair headed into the changing rooms goalless at half-time. A bright start to the 2nd half from Wimbledon, it was the hosts however who opened the scoring Jessica Byrne with the goal to make it 1-0. Actonians frustrating Wimbledon as the visitors pushed for a reply couldn’t find it as they suffer their first league defeat of the season. Actonians in 7th move to within a point of 6th placed Basildon, now very tight in the top half of the South East Division One table with just 5 points between 2nd and 7th now.
At the other end of the South East Division One table, Cambridge United WFC were at home to 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. The host side 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board having won just 1 league game so far this season. Leyton Orient with the opposite record with just the one defeat. Cambridge after a lengthy lay off without a game keen to end the year on a high. Their usual pitch at St Neots Town FC waterlogged the game switched to the neighbouring 3G pitch. A fairly even contest Cambridge creating good opportunities, Leyton Orient matching them the game heading into the closing moments of the first half Cambridge broke well Amy Howlett on the right playing the ball central for striker Kelley Blanchflower running to the edge of the box pulling the trigger placing the ball wide of the advancing keeper to give the hosts the advantage.
Two goals for Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower.
Leyton Orient coming out strong at the start of the 2nd half looking to find a reply, Cambridge’s defence standing firm a 2nd goal needed Cambridge found it midway through the 2nd period Blanchflower again the scorer a good run moving into the left channel lifting the ball over the advancing keeper to bounce over the line. The result made more comfortable when Cambridge were awarded an indirect free-kick inside the box after the keeper handled the ball from a back pass, Amber Cantwell setting up Emma Jenkins to smash the ball home. A 3-0 lead Cambridge were determined to keep a clean sheet up the other end and in doing so was their first of the campaign. A massive 3 points takes them up to 9th, 5 sides still in the mix at the bottom of the table a long way to go. The whole report can be found below this post.
Cambridge United WFC celebrating their 3rd goal (photo credit Gary Reed
A trip west to St Neots this Sunday to watch a game from FAWNL South East Division One, Cambridge United WFC taking on Leyton Orient WFC.
A highly competitive league once again, Ipswich Town Women’s young guns leading the way as we head towards the end of the year, but the Suffolk side has a host of sides hot on their heels well positioned to challenge for the top, amongst those Leyton Orient WFC in 4th just 4 points off the leaders.
Cambridge United WFC find themselves at the wrong end of the table, 2nd bottom with just 5 points on the board so far this season winning just one league match. Not the start they wanted as they moved to a new home this season, St Neots Town FC hosting their first team and Development sides games now aswell as their new training base. The loss of several key players during the summer hasn’t helped with a few more departures the squad found itself battling for points. Have yet to keep a clean sheet this season whilst frustratingly the majority of their defeat have been by a single goal margin.
Wanted or not Cambridge United WFC have had an enforced lay off of six weeks without a league game, this though has seen others pulled into the battle at the bottom, A chance to get others back from injury notably midfielder Amber Cantwell. Returning to action last weekend was always going to be a tough ask away to leaders Ipswich who had scored 28 times during Cambridge’s down time come into their final match of 2019 off the back of a 5-0 defeat.
This afternoon’s match is also Leyton Orient WFC’s first in the league for over a month, albeit for different reasons as the London club has been involved in several cup competitions, reaching the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup were knocked out by Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women last weekend. A strong start to the league season now an established side in South East Division One have lost just the one game so far this season up in 4th amongst the sides challenging the leaders themselves. Otesha Charles amongst the goals for Leyton Orient early in the season top scorer with 14, was unavailable for today’s match.
Knew yesterday as the men’s league game had fallen foul to a waterlogged pitch the game was under threat this Sunday, St Neots Town FC though boasts a large 3G pitch beside the main stadium. The game switched to that pitch the stadium itself situated in a new development on the outskirts of St Neots. The 3G pitch fairly new offering plenty of width and space around it. The weather bright but chilly calm, a few clouds around but no chance of rain the low sun behind one end would cause problems during the match for the players.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Jemma Moore, Albany Hodgson, Gisela Otten, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Jessicer Thsibanga & Chloe Armstrong.
A change of ends at the coin toss with Leyton Orient captain Sophie Le Marchand opting to have the sun at her sides backs in the first half. Cambridge then to get the first half underway, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Leyton Orient in an all blue kit, The ball closed down quickly by both sides straight away not getting out of the middle third Leyton Orient with a throw in on the right trying to make in roads behind their opponents defence.
The ball staying that side Cambridge get a throw on halfway, into Amber Cantwell she brings it down well turning to pass to striker Kelley Blanchflower central, she sees Amy Howlett breaking away down the right wing into space puts a great diagonal pass into her run takes it on before whipping a cross into the box the ball won and cleared by Leyton Orient’s Cheryl Anderson. A lively start to the game energy from both sides snapping in to make challenges Cambridge coming out on top in the early 50/50 exchanges.
Hayley Barton gathering the ball into her feet for Leyton Orient left side plays the pass infield into Egle Trezzi she spreads play up the left for Le Marchand to attack driving on towards the box, Abi Davies tackles for Cambridge to regain possession. Leyton Orient quick to get the ball back a cross fired into the area from the left side, Ellie Stenning up to challenge for it central knocks it down for Le Marchand to hit top of the box left side struck well the ball races wide across goal.
Hayley Barton in to winning the ball for Leyton Orient
Cantwell and Blanchflower combining once more the ball passed into the middle as Gisela Otten moves forwards plays a superb weighed pass out to Howlett on the move down the right taking on the full back gets inside to lift in a cross the ball too close to the keeper, Latoya Smith claiming high at her near post. Albany Hodgson does well tackling to prevent Leyton Orient bringing the ball out from the back keeping the pressure on in the final third for Cambridge.
Kelley Blanchflower and Amber Cantwell looking to get the better of the Leyton Orient defence
Francesca Ali strong into the challenge winning the momentum for Leyton Orient sets Le Marchand away on the left, Cambridge’s defence pushed back. Barton latching onto a stray goalkick lets fly from the angle a long way out her shot over. Jemma Moore doing the defensive work for Cambridge seeing the ball out on the right for a goalkick as Anderson looks to play in Stenning. A even start to the game both sides competing well Cambridge have a throw left side into Blanchflower the Cambridge attacker turns well and looks to take the ball on a determined run into the area, stopped as Ria Collins goes into challenge the ball deflected out to the right picked up by Howlett who lashes it goalwards, Smith with a smart save a glove up at her near post to tip the ball on away across goal.
Leyton Orient WFC’s Ria Collins
Stenning is brought down bringing the ball on through the middle for Leyton Orient a free-kick awarded, Barton over it a floated ball into the box Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt up highest getting her head on the ball knocking it down outside the area falls to Lisa Holmback strikes the ball on the volley her attempt over the bar. Cambridge mount an attack Emma Jenkins winning the ball in the middle Cantwell and Blanchflower ahead of her a good one two the ball played out to Howlett right her shot saved by Smith.
Cambridge winning a corner the ball initially defended by Leyton Orient, it’s Hodgson again who prevents the visitors breaking in attack the ball staying in the final third Jenkins is fouled 35 yards out left side, she is up to take it herself goes for goal a curling ball falls wide of the right post. Trezzi battling for possession gets the ball forwards for Le Marchand left side her early cross defended by Cambridge’s Carrie Bennett. Barton does well for Leyton Orient attacking right to win a corner. The ball played in towards the top of the area Trezzi inside the D meets it first time her strike angling wide races past the far post.
Ria Collins and Emma Jenkins challenge for the ball
Le Marchand left side in attack the ball fired up to her controls well on her chest to turn and strike the ball on the angle, read by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin down to claim at her near post. Ali with good work in the middle for Leyton Orient looks to pick put Holmback making a run ahead of her, Moore stepping in the tackle and win the ball for Cambridge. Free-kicks being given away Hodgson brings down Holmback central, Trezzi puts her attempt over. Up the other end play is brought back after Cantwell is pulled down with no advantage. Hodgson to play the ball forwards, Leyton Orient defend, somewhat unfairly as far as Blanchflower is concerned protesting she was held down, her appeals waved away.
One too many for Hodgson as she is eventually booked after a long lecture from the referee. Left side Barton to float the ball into the box, Collins with the run the ball knocked on into the mix scrambled behind for a corner. Taken from the right a good delivery met by Collins 10 yards out a looping header goalwards straight at Pamplin catches it high. Leyton Orient started to get on top getting the ball into the final third well Ali on for Stenning 20 yards out across to Barton right side into the box, Cambridge closing down the hosts looking to attack quickly through the middle Ali in to break it up.
Cambridge United WFC’s Albany Hodgson
Leyton Orient’s Holmback getting her side a corner on the right played long to the far post the ball headed clear outside the area picked up by Leyton Orient’s Leyre Bastyr strikes in a low shot Pamplin diving makes the save. Stenning’s turn for a lecture from the referee as she goes into the book. Jenkins fouled for Cambridge on the left Hodgson on the delivery long to the far post runners attacking it Smith with the instinctive save at close range a scramble inside the box the ball coming out to Jenkins her shot blocked.
Jenkins on the left turning on the ball good work to get in behind swings in a cross along the face of the Leyton Orient area, Otten racing forward striking it 1st time the Dutch players effort racing narrowly wide. Plenty of energy being put in by both sides Barton bringing the ball on in attack left side looks to come infield taking it across the top of the area looking for room to shoot lets fly the ball taking a deflection off a Cambridge leg the sting taken off the shot Pamplin can safely claim. Leyton Orient pressing late on win a corner on the left put long across the six yard box, Ali beyond the far post heading it back across goal a vital clearance by the defender covering the post for Cambridge.
Francesca Ali’s header put back across goal
Cambridge’s Gisela Otten preparing to tackle Leyton Orient’s Lisa Holmback
GOAL! Cambridge break late into the first half Howlett away into space on the right Blanchflower with her getting the edge on the defence in the middle the ball from Howlett rolled on into her path right of the D into the box Blanchflower pulls the trigger early to fire her shot low past Smith before she can properly set herself 1-0.
Time in the first half for Cambridge to mount one last attack Jenkins fouled somewhat painfully a free-kick awarded 40 yards out central, Hodgson on it tries her luck from distance on target Smith moving across her goal needed to keep her eye on it but drops before it an cause her trouble brings it down safely.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Leyton Orient WFC
A narrow lead for Cambridge at half-time, Blanchflower slotting the ball past the keeper late in the first half. A fairly even contest, lively players competitive across the pitch. Several robust challenges nothing malicious however the game played in good spirits. Cambridge gaining confidence Leyton Orient building well creating opportunities nothing clear cut yet though.
Sophie Le Marchand bringing the ball down for Leyton Orient
No changes for either side at half-time. The sun very low now light starting to fade, Leyton Orient to get the 2nd period underway Cambridge defending a 1-0 lead. Davies at right back for Cambridge dealing with a high ball forwards. Leyton Orient pressing from the off in the 2nd half Trezzi supporting Le Marchand left side the pair getting a throw in deep, put into Le Marchand edge of the box she heads it on into the centre, Burt getting it clear for Cambridge. Up the other end Collins putting in the tackle defending against Jenkins as she looks to break for Cambridge.
Le Marchand gathering the ball wide left turns infield 30 yards out is lining up a strike, blocked by Otten as she throws herself into the block in front of her. Leyton Orient press the attack left side a cross whipped into the area nodded out by Moore central falling straight to Stenning right of the D her shrike back blocked by Burt deflected out to the left Trezzi latching onto it firing a shot in on the angle Pamplin down at her near post to save.
Cambridge quick to get up the other end win a corner on the right, the ball into a crowded six yard box, Smith rising well amongst the melee to punch down the ball still in play inside the box, Auguste blocking Cambridge force a 2nd corner. The ball cleared Cambridge win it back inside the Leyton Orient half Blanchflower and Jenkins combine the latter seeing her shot from 20 yards out blocked. Blanchflower picking out Howlett getting away on the right her low cross cut back across the six yard box snatched into her body by Smith.
A lively contest still very even, Cambridge can’t afford to sit on a 1 nil lead. Le Marchand providing a good outlet in attack for Leyton Orient on the left Trezzi picking her out with the pass, Davies sticking out a foot just taking the ball away from her as she looks to turn in behind. Leyton Orient’s Holmback right puts the ball into the box for Le Marchand who checks back before shooting a curling effort headed over by Burt for a corner. The corner defended the ball dropping for Holmback right of the D, her shot sliced falls wide of goal.
Barton bringing the ball on through the middle looks to put Le Marchand through on goal as she breaks central, right side Burt stays on her making a fine tackle inside the box to take the ball away from her. Auguste has a go from distance 30 yards out well struck but not troubling Pamplin in the Cambridge goal. Leyton Orient continue to press breaking quickly right in attack the ball launched into the area Stenning and Le Marchand the runners, Stenning near post looking to shoot on the volley does quite get enough on the ball helping it on towards goal Pamplin is down on it bravely as Le Marchand goes over her.
Jasmine Auguste looking to get in behind for Leyton Orient
The visitors continue to knock on the door Barton with great work on the ball getting inside the box to shoot from the right her attempt headed away in front of goal by Davies. Trezzi putting the ball forwards for Stenning in the box heads it down for Auguste bombing on from the left her run blocked keeps possession to win a corner. Cambridge look to break Cantwell stooped by Bastyr a good challenge to deny her. Blanchflower patient leading the line for Cambridge ready to go should the ball be presented to her.
GOAL! That patience rewarded as Cambridge get the ball out from the back long into her making a run left channel getting free to attack the keeper rushing out to met her corner of the area Blanchflower lifting the ball over Smith, wheeling away in celebration even before the ball has bounced into the empty net beyond 2-0.
Striker Kelley Blanchflower puts Cambridge into a 2 goal lead
25 minutes left to play Cambridge with a 2nd goal, Leyton Orient look for an immediate response Anderson with a strike from distance wide across the area. Howlett tracking back in defence to support Davies as Le Marchand looks to get the ball down and drive into the area. Alot of effort put in by Cambridge, Leyton Orient creating chances just aren’t getting the rub of the green in the final third. Play paused as Hodgson requires treatment but okay to continue the floodlights switched on getting very dull with the sun fallen below the ground.
Leyton Orient captain, Sophie Le Marchand
Cambridge winning a free-kick wide on the right level with the penalty spot Cantwell to take a well struck ball flying in towards goal smashes against the bar an out of play. Le Marchand strong on the ball puts it on for Stenning looking to get into the area, Moore diving in to make the tackle puts it out for a throw in for Cambridge. Blanchflower picking the ball up on halfway turns and looks to drive on with it towards the Leyton Orient area closed down 20 yards out the ball is played back towards Smith picking it up the referee blowing up for a foul handling from a back pass.
GOAL! Cambridge with an indirect free kick inside the Leyton Orient box left of goal 8 yards or so out Cantwell and Jenkins close by Cantwell with the touch back to Jenkins to smash towards goal, through everybody finding its way into the back of the net putting Cambridge 3-0 up late in the game.
The visitors straight on the attack Le Marchand left side winning a corner the ball put into a congested six yard box the flag up against Collins as she rises to head the ball. Leyton Orient make the first change of the game Holmback coming off to be replaced by Connie Montiel-McCann she goes to right back Anderson switching to the left.
Abi Davies bringing the ball out from the back for Cambridge
Cambridge tiring but a call to arms to keep a clean sheet now the game into the closing 10 minutes Leyton Orient comes forwards Barton shooting from outside the box Pamplin down to her left making the save the ball out for a throw left Le Marchand inside the box turning to shoot wide across goal. Leyton Orient bring on Pinja Piira for Barton. Cambridge make their first change, Cantwell coming off to be replaced by Chloe Armstrong. A strike from distance from Cambridge Otten I think 30 plus yards Smith moving across her goal catching comfortably.
Armstrong back to defend well for Cambridge initially then commits a foul outside the box left side bringing down Ali. Trezzi on it goes for goal deflected off the wall spins wide across goal for the corner kick. Leyton Orient push on late in the game looking for a goal Cambridge battling at the back, Le Marchand played in by Piira on the left comes inside to shoot Pamplin unsighted as the ball finds it way through her defence with a great save getting down low to her right to push the ball away.
The visitors attacking right the cross put in across the top of the area, falls to Le Marchand left of the D strikes it on the half volley fired wide of goal. Into the final 5 minutes, Auguste and Le Marchand combine left side a throw in brings a foul and free-kick in the corner players forwards the ball sent in Moore injured as she goes up to defend for Cambridge play stopped a head injury. After treatment can’t continue brought off on in her place Jessicer Thsibanga. It just won’t happen for Leyton Orient in front of goal as they mount one last attack Auguste left on for Le Marchand puts in inside for Stenning to shoot outside the box her effort wide across the six yard box.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Leyton Orient WFC
A massive 3 points won by Cambridge United WFC just their 2nd league win of the season enough to lift them 2 places up to 9th in the South East Division One table. Leyton Orient suffering just their 2nd league defeat of the season. A even game for the majority Cambridge capitalising on individual errors from Leyton Orient to score leading 1 nil at half-time needed a 2nd goal to take the pressure off Blanchflower taking her chances well a 3rd goal coming late on and from a defensive perspective a first clean sheet of the season. Plenty of chances created for Leyton Orient it just wasn’t to be their day in front of goal.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders once again. Picking out a few performances, Francesca Ali and Egle Trezzi in the middle for Leyton Orient, and Sophie Le Marchand really did deserve to be on the scoresheet having carved out several opportunities. For Cambridge the defence with an huge effort, Kelley Blanchflower with two well taken goals had her hand in the third too. Amy Howlett with some great runs on the right in midfield Gisela Otten with solid game but edging it for me is Albany Hodgson put in some good tackles and prevented Leyton Orient getting forwards on a number of ocassions.
Another entertaining game from the FAWNL, an even contest Cambridge finding the goals to win the game. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today.
Five matches played across the 2 divisions in Essex this weekend. Two in the Premier Division, league leaders Collier Row Tigers ending their fixtures in 2019 with a 3 point lead at the top of the table their undefeated run up to 9 matches were away to Southend United Ladies at the weekend. Collier Row opening the scoring Southend came back to level the scores with Elizabeth Clarke on target from a free-kick, Collier Row going on to score three more goal to lead at the break 4-1 despite going down to 10 Lauren Taylor sent off collecting two yellow cards. Ria Toovey getting it back to 4-2 for Southend in the 2nd half, Collier Row managing to score another keeping Southend at bay to win the game 5-2. A brace for Laura Bunton seeing her reach 30 goals for the season. Roseanne Shafier with her 12th of the season also scoring along with Fran Pridie and Emma Harrison.
Billericay Town Ladies Development move above Southend United into 4th place in the Essex Women’s Premier Division table with their 5th win of the season at home to 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies. The host hitting the woodwork early on taking the lead in the 10th minute Rebecca Gallagher stroking home her 10th goal of the season in the 10th minute. Lindsey Morgan striking from distance to make it 2-0. Billericay with a 2 goal advantage at the break Gallagher hitting the crossbar early in the 2nd half, Joanne Burgoyne with a well struck free-kick from outside the box making it 3-0 on the hour. The woodwork struck for a 3rd time Billericay collecting 10 points from their last 4 Premier Division matches.
Essex Women’s Division One
A commanding lead now at the top of Essex Women’s Division One for Corringham Cosmos Women now 9 points after they pulled further away from the rest winning their 8th match of the season away from home on Sunday having dropped just 2 points so far this season. Were taking on 4th placed Chigwell Ladies who came into the game themselves in a rich vein of form winning 4 in a row. A brace from top scorer Michelle Sumpter putting Corringham Cosmos into a 2-0 lead at the break. Went on to score her hat-trick on the hour to make it 17 for the season. Rebecca Corcoran and Rachel Fleming scoring a goal each to see the game won 5-0.
Hutton Ladies Reserves were at home taking on 3rd placed Runwell Sports Ladies at the weekend in Division One the visitors with the opportunity to go 2nd with a positive result. Hutton though could call upon the services if striker Vicky Kinsman with the first team not in action and her hot form in front of goal continued as she scored a hat-trick with another goal scored by Danielle Hindley enough to edge the game 4-3 to Hutton, Aaryanna Simonelli with a brace and a goal for Ashley Debnam the scorers for Runwell Sports.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development move up to 4th in Division One ahead of Chigwell on goal difference as they won at home this Sunday in the league against Tigers Ladies. Leading 1-0 at half-time Bowers & Pitsea were pushed all the way to the final whistle by Tigers Ladies both scoring 2 goals in the 2nd half Bowers & Pitsea edging it 3-2. Francesca Browne, Ellie Jones and Katie Lee with her first goal for the club on target for Bowers & Pitsea. Alexandra Collins with a brace in the final 10 minutes for Tigers who find themselves 2nd bottom in the table but it is very tight with just 6 points between them and 2nd placed Aveley Ladies.
Brettvale Ladies leading the way in the Suffolk Women’s Division collecting maximum points from their open 10 matches. That run came to an end on Sunday as they suffered defeat in the league for the first time this season. Were hosting another in form team new side Holland Ladies who themselves with games in hand had only lost the one game this season and that back on the opening day to the other team with a 100% record in the league Needham Market Women Reserves. Brettvale scoring twice in the match with a goal for Lucy Brown and a 124th of the season for top scorer Abbie Fisher. Jasmine Cox always amongst the goals wherever she has played top scoring for Holland Ladies so far this season on target for a hat-trick at the weekend to put her on 19 for the season with Charlotte Warren netting her 11th of the season to secure a 4-2 win for the visitors stay 6th the gap to the top now 9 points Holland though have 3 games in hand on the leaders.
That result sees Needham Market Women Reserves in 2nd close the gap to Brettvale to 3 points with 2 games in hand, their 100% winning start continuing away from home on Sunday starting the day 3rd against 2nd placed Alresford Colne Rangers. Again a 4-2 win for the visitors. Vicky Hall and Jasmine Warner with the goals for Alresford. A brace for Katie Moore taking her onto 15 for the season, a goal for Hannah Cobbold her 14th of the campaign and one from the penalty spot for Abbie Wilkinson her 10th securing Needham Market’s 9th straight league win.
Incredibly tight between the top 6 in the Suffolk Women’s Division, Bury Town Ladies in fourth spot closing to within a point of 3rd placed Alresford. Away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies the game played in windy conditions Bury weren’t at their best the sides contesting a goalless first half, Abigail Eley scoring for a spirited Kesgrave, Bury managing two goals in the 2nd period to win the 3 points.
Woodbridge Town Ladies the other side amongst the top 6 keeping pace with Bury Town on 24 points in 5th winning their 8th game of the season and 6th in a trot at home to University of Suffolk Women. Another high scoring game Woodbridge ending with a double figure win, 5 goals for top scorer Jenna Liverpool now rapidly closing in on 30 goals for the season. 5 goals too for new signing Lucy Eagle. A brace for Keira Hines moves her to 15 for the season. Stacey Hadley and a first of the season for Josie Haward in a 14-0 result.
Competitive in mid-table too in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Brightlingsea Regent Ladies in 7th spot beating Henley Athletic Ladies for the 2nd time in a fortnight, a 1-0 win when they met on the 24th November. A 5-2 loss following for Brightlingsea away to Bury Town bounced back well this weekend with a god 2nd half performance to capitalise on leading 1-0 at half-time scoring 5 more in the 2nd half to win the game 6-1. Paige Knight with the first half goal adding another on the hour to claim a brace moving her to 11 for the season. Hannah Goldsmith with a 2nd half hat-trick remains top scorer with 16 for the season. Lucy Tilbury also into double figure for Brightlingsea scoring her 11th of the campaign at the weekend. Enya Moore scoring for Henley Athletic who have now suffered 5 straight league defeats.
Brantham Athletic Ladies up to 8th on the Suffolk Women’s Division as they returned to winning ways at home to Leiston St Margarets Ladies this Sunday despite trailing 1-0 at half-time. Sarah Cooper with the goal for Leiston St Margarets. Danielle Harvey with her 12th of the season getting Brantham back on level terms midway through the 2nd half. Lucy Dunnett firing the hosts into the lead with 15 minutes left went on to score another 5 minutes later to make it 3-1. Merlin Watson with her 6th strike of the season sealing a 4-1 victory in the 84th minute.
Brantham Athletic Ladies, Lucy Dunnett
A mini league forming at the bottom of the Suffolk Women’s Division, Leiston St Margarets dragged into the mix as Ramsey & Mistley Ladies and Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies battle for points below meeting for the 2nd successive weekend it was another close game between the pair struggling at the wrong end of the table. 2-1 to Ramsey & Mistley at Chantry Grasshoppers a week ago to see them win their first game in the league. A single goal scored by Bernice Corney enough this time around to see Chantry Grasshoppers record their 2nd win of the season and climb up to 11th above Leiston St Margarets in the process.
One tie played this weekend in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup quarter finals, ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies hosting Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side St Albans Ladies in the last 8 of the competition. Both sides in good form so far this season St Albans having had a run in the FA Women’s Cup earlier in the season. The lower league sides starting well top scorer Eleanor Lovelock firing St Albans into the lead inside 3 minutes. Sophie Hull adding a 2nd goal just past the quarter hour. A debatable penalty giving Colney heath a chance to pull a goal back their top scorer Samaira Khan finishing from the spot. St Albans continued to play well create chances had Colney Heath under pressure Lovelock scoring her 2nd of the match and 21st overall to put the visitors into a 3-1 lead. A big 2nd half needed from Colney Heath started well Charlene Moreton latching onto a poor goalkick to pull it back to 3-2 in the 47th minute. 10 minutes later and Colney Heath were level at 3-3 Moreton scoring again. The turn around complete midway through the 2nd half Moreton combining with Rianne Townsend-Brown to complete her hat-trick. St Albans not out of it by any means opportunities to score kept coming Amy Butler saving in goal for Colney Heath, Moreton turning in a cross to score her fourth of the match to make it 5-3 with 15 minutes left. Colney Heath through to the semi-finals of the competition.
4 goals for Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were threatening to runaway with it at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One the defending champions 6 points clear at the top of the table winning all of their 8 matches played so far. That run coming to an end at the weekend as they suffered their first defeat of the season away to Northwood Ladies. Northwood’s own form in recent weeks improving came into the match on the back of 3 straight league wins. A 1-0 win for Hemel Hempstead in the reverse fixture back in September. This weekend the game another close affair. Ella Mercer and Charlene Turturici-Clarke scoring for Hemel Hempstead, a brace from top scorer Emma Steele giving her 10 for the season plus a first of the season for Joanne Horwood seeing Northwood edge it 3-2 move up to 4th in the Division One table.
Also moving a pace up the Division One table at the weekend are Garston Ladies 1st up to 5th joining Northwood on 14 points. Were away to bottom side Hitchin Belles on Sunday. Sian Fisher on target to score her 5th goal of the season, a goal from Cassandra Chase and a first of the season for Jade Roberts securing the points with a 3-0 victory.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two also this Sunday with big away wins for two of the top three to put all three level on 21 points. Herts Vipers back to the top of the pile on goal difference closing in on 70 scored so far this season as they extended their 100% winning start to 7 matches away to Bedwell Rangers Ladies. Kesley Millen named as the clubs new vice-captain starting the scoring with the first goal of the match in the 8th minute. Two quick fire goal from Rachel Wall and top scorer Nicole Jancey had Herts Vipers 3-0 up just 3 minutes later. The visitors with a purple patch in front of goal hammering home their advantage, Rebecca Scott adding a 4th goal in the 18th minute, Wall firing in a double a minute later to complete her hat-trick. Millen repeating the feat soon after 2 goals in the 22nd and 25th minutes to have a first half hat-trick of her own. 8 goals scored with barely half an hour played the game settled down some what. Bedwell working hard trying to play the right way Herts Vipers adding a 9th just before the break Tazmin Symonds Bishop scoring. The 2nd half seeing just the one goal added by Herts Vipers with 20 minutes left Millen netting her 4th of the game. The final score 10-1, Bedwell Rangers goal scored by Georgia Miller.
A big away win for Biggleswade United Ladies too at the weekend in Division Three taking them up to 2nd in the table in between Herts Vipers and Harvesters Ladies. Were taking on Stotfold Juniors Ladies. Robyn Gibbons putting Biggleswade into the lead in the 17th minute. Kayleigh Saunders putting Biggleswade 2-0 up 10 minutes later. Zoe Molloy adding a 3rd goal as the visitors finished the first period strongly top scorer Leeanne Davison getting her 18th goal of the season with Tashai Simms scoring on the stroke of half-time to see Biggleswade 5-0 up. More goal coming 2nd half Saunders scoring her 2nd of the game and 14th overall 5 minutes after the restart. Molloy and Simms both adding another goal with Annabelle Gee scoring her first Biggleswade goal on the 80th minute to see the match won 9-0.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
This weekend also saw the beginning of The Chris Renshaw Cup, three tie played on Sunday in the 1st Round of the competition. Evergreen Ladies and Sherrardswood Ladies were meeting for the 3rd successive match. The previous two encounters full of drama and goals, a 7-4 extra-time win in the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for Sherrardswood in November the points shared in a 3-3 draw in Division Two now meeting for a 3rd time in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Plenty of goals in this one two although a very contrasting scoreline. Sherrardswood starting well Laura Cousins with the opening goal inside 10 minutes. Manjinder Atwal then rattling in an 11 minute hat-trick, Abby Cardell also on the scoresheet to see Sherrardswood 5-0 with just 22 minutes gone. Cousins scoring her 2nd of the game late in the first half to see the visitors 6-0 at half-time. Sherrardswood continuing in the same vain in the 2nd half Francesca Novelli scoring a brace to put them 8-0 before an hours play. Leane Pickett with her first of the season pulling one back for Evergreen as good as it would get Cousins going onto complete her hat-trick. The game entering the final 10 minutes Lola Steiner making just her 2nd appearance for Sherrardswood scored her first goal for the club the final score 11-1 with Atwal adding her 4th of the match in the final 5 minutes.
Harvester Ladies going into the weekend top of Beds & Herts Division Three were at home to Division One side Letchworth Garden City Eagles in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. A high scoring encounter that saw the pair share 9 goals. Natasha Reynolds, Kim Franklin and Samantha Coughlan with their first goals of the season for Letchworth plus one for Katie Smith seeing them put for past their opponents, Harvesters though through to the next round of the competition scoring one more to win it 5-4.
A good result in the 1st Round of The Chris Renshaw Cup for Division Three side Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves as they beat Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses doing well this season in Division Two. Despite a good start to the game from Woburn & Wavendon, it was Hitchin who opened the scoring Ellen Beary making her first start for the club putting a looping shot into the top corner in the 9th minute. Chances followed for both sides Hitchin holding onto their 1-0 advantage at half-time. Top scorer April Spang latching onto a scuffed goalkick on the hour sending the ball home to put Hitchin 2-0 ahead. The lead made more secure in the final 20 minutes Spang with her 15th of the season putting Hitchin 3 goals up. A late penalty for Woburn & Wavendon saw Giselle Randall pull a goal back Hitchin though safely through to the next round winning 3-1. Also through to the next round of The Chris Renshaw Cup are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies awarded the home win against Kempston Rovers Ladies.
