The last Round-Up of the week taking a lot back at the weekends action from the Suffolk Women’s Division an exciting contest at the top of the table, five games played this Sunday. Woodbridge Town Ladies impressive form continues 3 points clear at the top a fifth straight league win coming at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at the weekend. Jenna Liverpool’s fantastic season in front of goal continues another brace at the weekend seeing her move onto 43 goals for the season. Her brace helping to secure the 3 point for Woodbridge winning the match 2-1. Paige White scoring from the penalty spot in the 75th minute for Brightlingsea the pair meeting in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
Woodbridge Town top of the table have played more than anyone else games in hand for the sides below, doesn’t necessarily guarantee points alot of football yet to be played, Brettvale Ladies having a strong 2nd season in the league themselves leading for a long period long unbeaten stay 2nd in the table 3 points behind Woodbridge winning at home to Leiston St Margarets on Sunday. Tarnya Mckew moving a goal clear over Abbie Fisher scoring at the weekend to move to 15 goals for the season. Brettvale’s pressure in attack leading to 2 own goals being conceded to see them win the match 3-0.
A trio of sides 3 points further back on 33 points all again with games in hand on Woodbridge at the top. Holland Ladies new to the league this season up to 33 points level with Needham Market Women Reserves and Bury Town Ladies running up a high scoreline away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women on Sunday. Holland losing just once this season way back on the opening weekend scoring plenty of goals spread out amongst the squad rattling in a double figure scoreline. Jasmine Cox top scoring in the match with 5 goals top scorer overall with 25 goals for the season now. There was a hat-trick for both Lauren Bourne and Sophie Blowers. Keeley Brickwood and Charlotte Robertson also on the scoresheet with a goal each along with Ellie Cox scoring her first Holland goal in a 14-0 win.
Bury Town Ladies briefly leading the Suffolk Women’s Division themselves before suffering back to back defeats got back to winning ways this weekend away to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies to keep themselves in contention for the title. Have been scoring plenty of goals this season and well spread out amongst the squad. Winning the match 7-1 Bury had 7 different names on the scoresheet. Julie Brind top scorer with her 18th of the season, Kirsten Hutchings on target to record her 12th of the campaign their were goals too for Sophie Hemming, Lyndsie Duemmel, Olivia Hodges, Norma Locker and captain Lisa Pratt with her first goal of the season. Cassie Howlett the goal scorer for Ramsey & Mistley her first goal for the side.
A high scoring win too for Brantham Athletic Ladies at home to AFC Kesgrave Ladies on the league on Sunday. Leading 4-1 at half-time went on to match the scoreline in the 2nd half to win the match 8-2. Maddie Hubbard with a brace in the first half along with goals for Lucy Dunnett and Danielle Harvey with her 14th goal of the season for Brantham. Daisy Woodward scoring a brace making her Brantham debut in the 2nd half Dunnett with her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes left and Sophie Crabtree in the 90th minute completing the scoreline. Abigail Eley with both the goals for an under strength Kesgrave.
A great result for Collier Row Tigers last weekend beating ERWFL side Hutton Ladies 7-4 to reach the last four of the Essex Women’s County Cup. Back to the league this weekend confidence high unbeaten dropping just two points so far this season 20 games without defeat overall top of the Premier Division were on the road taking on Rayleigh Town Ladies. Laura Bunton continues to enjoy herself in front of goal scoring another brace at the weekend to see her move to 38 goals for the season. Chloe Jackson alos bagging herself a brace moves onto 5 goals. Fran Pridie and Emma Harrison with her 11th strike of the season seeing Collier Row Tigers to a 6-1 victory keeping them 6 points clear at the top of the table Jess Bowen on the scoresheet for Rayleigh.
Silver End United Ladies 2nd in the Premier Division made it back to back away wins on Sunday claiming the 3 points against Southend United Ladies at the weekend. Silver End not at their best scoring in the first half Rosi Webb with her 11th goal of the season putting them ahead, Were pushed all the way by Southend thwarting them in defence the hosts unlucky not to take anything from the game Silver End remain 6 points behind Collier Row with a game in hand although they are fast running out in the league.
Frontiers Ladies are still there just haven’t played a competitive game since mid November that seeing them drop down the Premier Division table. Were finally back in action at home to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies at the weekend. A single goal enough for Frontiers to win all three points and move back above Southend United Ladies into 5th position. Calley Meville-Taylor with the goal her first for Frontiers and with games in hand on the sides above could yet push for a top 3 finish.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two games played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday and Runwell Sports Ladies close to within a point of leaders Corringham Cosmos Women win a four straight league win at home to Aveley Ladies on Sunday, Danielle Dorrington recently joining the squad making her 2nd appearance scoring her first goals scoring twice to see Runwell Sports clinch a 2-0 result. Have played 3 games more than Corringham but have an iron grip of 2nd spot 8 points clear of 3rd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development.
A tense battle in the middle of the Division One table Chigwell Ladies in 5th hosting 6th placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Stacy Bott on target for a brace to see Leigh Ramblers win the match 2-0 to move back above Tigers Ladies into 6th with games in hand on the sides above.
Essex Women’s Trophy
One outstanding quarter final tie to be played in the Essex Women’s Trophy postponed from last weekend Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves were hosting Hutton Ladies Reserves. Were actually scheduled to meet in the league the Trophy taking precedence. Hutton with a strong performance to book their spot in the last 4 of the competition beating Chelmsford 9-0 to set up a semi-final clash away to ERWFL Division One South side Lawford Ladies on Sunday 16th February. Billericay Town Ladies Reserves hosting Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies in the other Trophy semi-final.
Beginning this weeks Norfolk Round-Up with the one remaining tie to be played in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, and it was a huge test for Norfolk Women’s Division One side as they faced FAWNL South East Division One side Norwich City Women. 3 leagues between the sides Norwich keen to make progress in this season’s County Cup after falling in the early rounds since rejoining the competition a couple of season’s ago. A home tie against Wroxham Women awaiting the winner. Norwich holding a 3-0 lead at half-time, prevented Sprowston Athletic from scoring whilst adding a further 3 goals to progress into the last 4 with a 6-0 victory. The goals spread amongst the side with 3 players netting their first goals for the side, Lauren Cullum, Hannah Claughton and Jodie Drake. Eliza McDonald and Reeanna Cook also getting on the scoresheet along with Aimee Durrant scoring her 8th goal of the season.
Aimee Durrant on the scoresheet at the weekend against Sprowston Athletic with her 8th goal of the season for Norwich (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Norwich with now play Wroxham Women in the last four the game to be played on Sunday 16th February. Back to back winners Wymondham Town Ladies are away to Norfolk Division One side Sprowston Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
Plenty of cup action too elsewhere in the county with the Norfolk Women’s League Cup reaching the quarter finals stage. A strong line-up in the last 8 of the competition too with the top 4 in Division One all still involved. All showing great form in the first half of the season with plenty of goals in heir squads. Current League Cup holders Sprowston Ladies were at home to at Bungay Town Ladies winners of the League Cup the previous season, 2nd and 3rd in the league. Victoria Leyer has been prolific in front of goal for Sprowston once again this season and was on target for two goals in the fist half for the hosts on Sunday to move her onto 29 goals from just 10 appearances, a goal to for captain Abby Hutchin seeing Sprowston leading Bungay 3-1 at half-time. Selina Rowland netting the goal for Bungay pressed for more goals in the 2nd period Sprowston though standing firm in defence going on to win and book their place in the last 4 of the competition.
Sprowston Ladies opponents in the League Cup final last season were Tavern Ladies then of Division Two. Now riding high in Division One were away to familiar opponents Fakenham Town Ladies had knocked them out of the County Cup earlier in the season. Tavern scoring plenty of goals a potent attack force with players joining from midfield, Fakenham battling hard in defence goalkeeper Chloe Easter pulling off a number of saves, Katie Hart-Copsey scoring in the first half to put Tavern into the lead her 13th goal of the season proving to be decisive enough to send Tavern into the League Cup semi-finals for the 2nd successive season.
Elsewhere both Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies and their Reserves side playing in Division Two were both in quarter final action in the league cup. High scoring games Thorpe United Ladies Reserves were hosting Division One side Long Stratton Women. Samantha Walker captaining the side doing well in front of goal this season on fire at the weekend to score a double hat-trick for Long Stratton helping the club to reach their first semi-final in 9 years. A brace from Emily Watts making her return to the side and one for Ellie Sostman seeing Long Stratton to a 9-2 victory. Rachael Wall on target for both goals for Thorpe United Reserves.
Runaway leaders at the top of Division One with a 100% record from 11 played were away to Division Two newcomers Waveney Ladies in the quarter finals of the League Cup. Thorpe’s captain Rebekah Lake scoring a very large chunk of their goals this season bagging herself another 4 at the weekend against Waveney’s youngsters to take her to 35 for the season from 12 played. Thorpe running out double figure winners progressing to the last 4 of the competition with a 10-0 win, six other players celebrating a goal, Joanne Hooper, Ellie Hunter, Millie Cursons, Aneliese Smith, Alice Ladbrooke and Sophie Jermy.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One match played in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with Wymondham Town Ladies hosting Thetford Town Ladies. The visitors finding a bit of form in the league in recent weeks taking 4 points from their last two match Thetford pulling further away from the bottom two going above Wymondham into 8th place in the table as they made it 7 points from 3 matches winning at the weekend 2-1. Natalie Woods scoring for Wymondham but a 6th goal of the season from Melissa Boulton and a first of the campaign for Abbey Comstock securing the win for Thetford who may yet push for a mid-table finish following promotion from Division Two last season.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday, Hockering Ladies getting back to winning ways in the league at the weekend following back to back defeat plus a heavy loss in the League Cup to Tavern Ladies. Were hosting struggling Red Rose Ladies the 2nd bottom side short on numbers a situation Hockering were familiar with in the past. Took advantage to rack up a double figure scoreline winning by 11 goals to nil Hockering back up to 5th in the table.
Very tight though in the middle of the Division Two table with Hockering ahead on goal difference over North Walsham Ladies now 6th ahead of Mulbarton Wanderers who they beat at home on Sunday. Mulbarton another side short on numbers, North Walsham themselves with the bare 11, goals from Kiera Brown and Rhiannon Holt helping the hosts to a 3-0 victory.
A busy weekend of league and cup action across the county the title race in both the Premiership and Championship taking another twist, plus two outstanding games played in the quarter finals of the Invitation and Junior Invitation Cup.
Beginning with the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership three games played at the weekend. The league leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves were at home taking on Ketton Ladies. 2 points clear at the top Peterborough fell behind to a well struck free-kick from near the half way line from Ketton captain Beth Goodman. Ella Gavaghan scoring an equalising goal for Peterborough in the 2nd half to see the pair take a share of the points.
Pressure now applied from Haverhill Rovers Ladies as they move up to 2nd over Leverington Sports Ladies to go a point behind Peterborough with the two due to meet this coming Sunday. This weekend were at home taking on Cambridge City Ladies A. A dominant display from Haverhill seeing them win all 3 points scoring 4 goals whilst keeping a clean sheet a bonus too having club captain Clair Andrews back in the squad after 5 months out with injury. Joeli Kirby scoring a brace to give her 7 for the season. Kayleigh Nolan on target for her 9th of the campaign along with a goal for Sophie Wing. Plenty of games for Haverhill left to play 3 games in hand on the leaders.
Nothing can be taken for granted however and a host of sides a well positioned to put pressure on the leading sides. St Ives Town Ladies Development climbing up to 5th in the Premiership table winning at the weekend at home to Histon Ladies Reserves. Bring an end to a run of 3 straight defeats in the league that had seen them slip down the table, goals from Molly Berryman, Maisie Buckle, Rebecca Baldry and Katie Luddy making her debut for the club seeing St Ives win the game 4-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Postponed from last weekend, FAWNL South East Division One side were away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side in the quarter finals of the Women’s Invitation Cup on Sunday a huge gap between the sides 3 divisions Cambridge City with a dominant performance running out comfortable winners. Karly Tolentino doubling her goals tally for the season netting a hat-trick. Hannah Bodily, Charlotte Gillies and Laura Mills all getting a goal each along with first goals of the season for defender Amy Reed and captain Becca Fay.
A hat-trick for Cambridge City Ladies Karly Tolentino at the weekend (photo credit Gary Reed)
Cambridge City Ladies will now meet Newmarket Town Women at home in the semi-finals with Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to Histon Ladies in the last 4 of the competition.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One outstanding quarter final played this Sunday too in the Women’s Junior Invitation Cup with Newmarket Town Women Development away to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Newmarket in good form coming into the game moving up the Championship table with a good first half going into the break leading 3-0. Both sides finding the back of the net for a goal each in the 2nd half Newmarket’s Development side into the last four winning 4-1. A goal each for top scorers Talia Irvine on 12 now with Leah Harper moving into double figures. First goals for the side too for Lauren Roberts and Hannah Rogers on her first appearance.
As in the semi-finals for the Invitation Cup Newmarket’s Development side will be away to Cambridge City Ladies new A side. Histon Ladies Reserves will face Swavesey Spartans Ladies at home in the other semi-final.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Five games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this Sunday and a significant result at the top of the table as leaders Cambridge Rangers Women succumbed to their first defeat of the season after setting a blistering start winning 12 in a row. Unlucky 13 as that magnificent ran came to an end away to Park Ladies at the weekend. Cambridge Rangers coming up against a Park side showing great form themselves winning 4 straight league games to move up the Championship table, a battling performance from both sides Park tough to break down taking the lead midway through the first half Nicole Saunders scoring her first goal of the season. Proved to be the winning goal as Park kept their opponents at bay to win the 3 points a 5th straight win taking them up to 5th.
2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies closing the gap to the leaders to 4 points albeit having played 2 game more bouncing back from defeat away to Eaton Socon Ladies last weekend won the 3 points on the road taking on Deeping United Ladies this Sunday. Katie Hayes netting her 18th goal of the season on the half hour to put Mildenhall 1-0 up at the break. Nadine Basson firing home from the penalty spot 10 minutes into the 2nd half doubling the lead. Caroline Limas with her first goal for Mildenhall wrapping up a 3-0 win in the 68th minute.
A first defeat of the season for Cambridge Rangers Women leaves just one side now in the Championship with a 100% winning record 3rd placed Pinchbeck United Ladies now 9 wins in a row 9 points behind the leaders with 4 games in hand. Alot of football still to play were at home taking on Hungate Rovers Ladies at the weekend. Pinchbeck winning the match 2-0 with Libby Friel and Freya Peters scoring their 8th and 9th goals of the season respectfully.
A 7 goals thriller between Cambourne United Women mid-table in the Championship at home to bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies on Sunday. Helen Carder-Hall scoring for Cambourne in the 6th minute. Alice Taylor with the hosts 2nd goal in the 21st minute, Carder-Hall getting her 2nd of the game on the stroke of half-time. Swavesey Spartans despite their lowly position in the league with several close results so far this season scoring 3 goals themselves, missing out once again as Cambourne went on to win 4-3, Taylor with her 2nd of the match scoring in the 84th minute.
Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development move out of the bottom two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship after earning a point in a high scoring match at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. The game ending with honours even both sides scoring 3 goals. Gemma Codling on target for her 9th goal of the season for Haverhill, Natasha Caine celebrating a goal along with a first of the season for Sarah Goodey. Poppy Green bagging a brace for Isleham to move her to 7 for the season, Kate Silver with the visitor other goal.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies return to the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One moving 3 points clear of St Albans Ladies who moved top on goal difference last weekend. St Albans involved in the League Cup this Sunday thier semi-final match at home to AFC Dunstable Women Blues abandoned due to an injury with St Albans 3-2 up at the time, to be replayed in a fortnights time. Wishing the injured players all the best for a speedy recovery.
Hemel Hempstead were hosting Royston Town Women Development at the weekend in the league a cracking game between the sides a close scoreline Royston scoring through Holly Fox her first goal of the season unlucky in the finish not to take anything from the game losing 2-1. Hemel Hempstead strong throughout the 90 minutes scoring twice to win the game 2-1, Amy Bentall and Charlene Turturici-Clarke with the goals.
Fifth placed Garston Ladies 1st team climb above their weekends opponents Hartham United Ladies to go fourth joining 3rd placed Northwood Ladies on 20 points. The game played at Hartham on Sunday a dominant display from the visitors Garston running out comfortable winners in the finish scoring 5 goals with out reply to make it 4 straight wins in the league. Jade Roberts on target to score a hat-trick. Cassandra Chase also on he scoresheet along with Sian Fisken scoring her 7th goal of the season.
The 2nd Hitchin derby of the season played this Sunday in Division One with Hitchin Town Ladies suffering 3 straight defeats against the top 3 in the league falling away from the top of the table at home to Hitchin Belles bottom of the table with just one point so far from their opening 10 games. A 4-0 win for Hitchin Town in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Hitchin Belles with an early goal this weekend Amy Jack scoring from a 20 yard free-kick. Hitchin Town coming back to level the scores and take the lead with Holly Darling netting both goals and own goal seeing Hitchin Town secure the 3 points with a 3-1 win that keeps them in contention for a top 4 finish just 2 points behind Northwood and Garston.
The points shared in a high scoring draw between Letchworth Garden City Eagles and Houghton Athletic Ladies in Division One at the weekend a brace each for Letchworth’s Tayla Murray and Houghton Athletic’c Ciara Craig both moving to 5 for the season. The game ending 3-3. Bethany Phillips scoring the other goal for Houghton Athletic her 4th of the campaign with Ellie Watson on target for her first goal of the season for Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
As tight as ever at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the gap between the top 4 now once again just a point, with 3rd and 4th placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies & Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses both winning away from home to join Langford Ladies in 2nd on 21 points one behind AFC Dunstable Women Blues at the top.
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies were away to Watton Ladies this Sunday their first league match since December the 1st. Despite being short no numbers Kempston & Bedford comfortable at the final whistle winning the game 4-0 to collect the 3 points, Freya Green scoring a brace. Charlie Mullins on target to score her 6th goal of the season with Natasha Wing on the scoresheet to make it 5 for the campaign.
Reaching the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup final last weekend winning away to Houghton Athletic Ladies in their semi-final, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses returned to winning ways in the league this Sunday away from home taking on Garston Ladies Vintage Purples. The hosts never able to get into their stride Woburn & Wavendon getting their noses in front on the half hour to lead 1-0 at the break with Jess Katsinas scoring her first goal for the club in her 3rd appearance. Holly Venn doubling the lead in the 2nd half with her 8th strike of the season to secure a 2-0 win for the visitors.
Evergreen Ladies with a good 2nd half performance away to bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday sees them pull further clear of the bottom 2 themselves. A fairly uneventful first half ending goalless between the pair. The dead lock broken early in the 2nd half with Louise Popkin putting Evergreen into the lead. Youngster Grace Gibbons scoring a brace to send the visitors into a 3-0 lead, another 2 from Rebecca Freeman seeing the game won 5-0.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Four matches played too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday. Herts Vipers topping the table making it 10 straight league wins since joining the league this season scoring plenty of goals too fast closing in on 80 goals whilst keeping it tight at the back conceding just 4 goals from those 10 games. Another clean sheet this Sunday away to Kempston Rovers Ladies as they ran in the goals up the other end. Kesley Mullen getting Herts Vipers off the mark within the opening minute scoring her 11th goal of the season. Top scorer Nicole Jancey on target to double the lead before the opening 15 minutes were up. Dominant Herts Vipers went 3-0 up 5 minutes later through a Tazmin Symonds Bishop goal. Midfielder Sarah Payne recently joining the side bringing a wealth of experience to the side celebrating her first goal for the club in the 35th minute. A 2nd goal for Millen late in the first period seeing Herts Vipers take a 5-0 lead into the break. Quickly became 6-0 at the start of the 2nd half Jancey scoring her 2nd of the game and 38th of the season. Payne winning Player of the Match scoring her 2nd of the game on the hour. Rachel Wall with a goal midway through the 2nd half sealing an 8-0 win for Herts Vipers.
Match action from Kempston Rovers v Herts Vipers (photo credit Graham Dear)
10 wins from 10 for Herts Vipers they can’t rest on their laurels in the race for the title as their lead remains just 3 points, beating Biggleswade United Ladies in a top of the table clash a fortnight ago Biggleswade in 3rd bounced back with a big home win over Flitwick Eagles Ladies last Sunday to move level with 2nd placed Harvesters Ladies. The pair meeting this weekend with Biggleswade the away side, a close match between the pair and despite making hard work of it at times Biggleswade came out on top to win the game 3-2 to claim the 3 points and move 3 points clear into 2nd themselves. Zoe Molloy scoring her 11th goal of the season, there were also goals for Grace Leslie and a first for the club for Sarah King.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies playing their first league match of 2020 this Sunday were away to Evergreen Eagles in Division Three. A hat-trick for top scorer Chloe Ward taking her into double figures for the season on 11 along with a goal for Holly Konopka securing a 4-0 win that keeps them right up on the sides battling for a top half finish in the league.
A third win of the season for Flitwick Eagles Ladies sees them pull further clear of the bottom sides after they won comfortably at home to bottom placed Buntingford Town Ladies on Sunday. Brittany Holdsworth scoring her 11th goal of the season firing Flitwick into the lead in the 22nd minute, Anna Bright with her 8th of the season quickly doubling the advantage. Charlie Newton scoring her first goal of the season with 5 minutes left in the half seeing Flitwick into a 3-0 lead at the break. Victoria Harrold also celebrating her first goal of the season adding to Flitwick’s lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Newton going on to score to more goals in the 64th and 84th minute to make it a hat-trick and a 6-0 win for the hosts.
With runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies playing their rearranged League Cup game this weekend it was a chance for the chasing sides to reduce their 9 point lead at the top. Remains very tight in the Premier Division below Harlow with just 6 points between the 2nd and 9th placed sides in the table all fancying their chances of pushing on in their final games of the season.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies topping the chasers in 2nd spot were at home to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. Dunstable very nearly opening the scoring in the 10th minute Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson tipping the shot over the bar, going on to claim the resulting corner and setting up Katie Steward to put the hosts 1-0 up in the 11th minute. Peterborough comfortable after that going on to take a 2-0 lead in the 20th minute Evie Driscoll-King heading home from a corner kick. Peterborough continuing in the same vein at the start of the 2nd half Chanade Henderson thumping a header against the crossbar before Georgia Coulson made it 3-0 chasing in onto a rebound to make it 3-0. Steph Gale introduced to the action scoring an audacious goal with the outside of her boot looping into the net leaving the keeper standing. Coulson at the back post turning in her 2nd of the match making it 5-0. Dunstable substitute Daniella Snowden putting away a cross pulling a goal back with 15 minutes to play. Time at the end for Gale to score her 2nd of the game following good work from Katie Stewards on the wing 6-1 the final score.
A brace for Peterborough’s Steph Gale on Sunday including an outrageous effort with the outside of her boot (photo credit James Cox)
Luton Town hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game winning away from home on Sunday against 2nd bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Rebecca Kane netting a first half hat-trick to take her onto 14 goals for the season. Opening the scoring in the 9th minute put through by Rebecca Ferris into the box to slot the ball under the advancing keeper. Kane’s 2nd in the 29th minute scoring from close range off Elly Wade’s cross. The hat-trick coming 5 minutes later send through on goal by Zara Carroll. 3-0 up at half-time Jess McKay edging back into the lead as top scorer for Luton with her 15th of the season in the 78th minute. Tanya Blacksley with her first goal of the season for Luton heading in from a corner in the 90th minute to see the game won 5-0.
With Royston Town Women’s home match against Wroxham called off both Colney Heath Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies took full advantage winning their home matches to climb above them into 5th and 6th respectfully in the ERWFL Premier Division. Colney Heath Ladies hosting St Ives Town Ladies who had Kira Markwell back in goal after the keeper sustained a nasty injury towards the end of last season. Not much between the sides in the opening half hour, Colney Heath’s Rianne Townsend winning the ball on half way sending Megan Kelly away on the right her shot fired into the top corner to make it 1-0. The visitors defending up the other end to hold their lead going into the break. Both goalkeepers called into action in the 2nd half St Ives keeping Colney Heath from adding to their lead frustrated not to get anything from the game in the finish.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies climb up to 6th in the Premier Division table winning at home to an in form Bedford Ladies who had previously won 4 straight games in league and cup. A good start from Bowers & Pitsea undone in the 10th minute as Natasha Fensome ran through onto a loose ball at the back to put Bedford into the lead. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores applying pressure late in the first half Courtney Fraser’s cross turned in by Danni Jennings in the 39th minute to see it level at 1-1 at half-time. Into the 2nd half a long stoppage on play with Bowers & Pitsea’s Yasmin Cowley suffering what appeared to be a serious knee injury, unable to continue awaiting scans to determine the extent of the damage can only wish her all the best for a full and speedy recovery. Bowers & Pitsea rallying well as play resumed taking the lead midway through the 2nd half Megan Harley scoring direct from a corner. The hosts pushing on creating more chances making the lead more comfortable in the 83rd minute Harley with her 2nd of the game a looping strike from 30 yards out. Harley completing her hat-trick in the final minute running away down the wing sending her shot into the top corner Bowers & Pitsea winning 4-1.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding tie left to play in the 1st Round of this season’s ERWFL Cup, the game postponed from a fortnight ago due to minibus trouble for Harlow Town Ladies on the way to the game rearranged for this Sunday the ERWFL Premier Division leaders heading up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. Close games between the pair in the league Wymondham the only side managing to take points off Harlow. Meeting the the League Cup both sides affected by injuries and absences only able to field one substitute each a fast start to the game Harlow taking the lead inside 6 minutes a diagonal ball launched up into the area deflected into the path of top scorer Becky Shephard burying her shot to put Harlow into the lead. Wymondham coming back to level the scores quickly defender Lauren Kett putting Wymondham’s top scorer and captain Hannah Waters through clear on goal wrong footing the keeper outside the box to send the shot past her into the empty net 1-1. The game continued to be played at a rapid tempo a number of free-kicks given away players in the wars Danni Clarke in goal for Wymondham with a brave save at the feet of Harlow’s Liv Steele.
Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters with both goals for Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday
1-1 at half-time a hand injury to Clarke seeing her having to come off Freya Symonds taking over in goal putting in an assured performance the defence working hard in front of her both sides attacking an open game and injury to midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan seeing Wymondham forced to play the final 20 minutes with 10 players, despite that upped their effort coming closest to finding the winning goal in normal time Mia Etheridge’s driven shot on the angle smashing against the bar. 90 minutes up the scores all square the tie heading into extra-time. Wymondham back up to 11 with Clarke coming on to support the midfield. Alot of effort put in by both sides Wymondham finding a goal late in the first period of extra play, from a corner the ball retrieved wide fired back across goal flicked on for Waters rising to get her boot on the ball turn it in at close range. Wymondham managing the 2nd period well frustrating Harlow going on to win the match book their place in the quarter finals. The full match report can be found further down the page.
ERWFL Division One North
Plenty of action too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend with all 8 sides in action including a top of the table clash between leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development at home to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The visitors coming into the match off the back of a strong run to close the gap on the leaders. Had the better of the 1st half with goals from Katie Ward and superb strike from Tegan Wheeler seeing them into a 2-0 lead at half-time. A complete turn around in the 2nd half as Cambridge City came back from 2 down to in the game 3-2. Carla Penny with her 15th goal of the season bringing it back to 2-1 on the hour. Rachel Pearce equalising just 3 minutes later a well struck free-kick flying in under the bar. The hosts taking the lead in the 72nd minute awarded a corner the ball fired into a crowded box, bodies everywhere Kayla Krett getting the telling touch to score her first goal for the side, proving what would be the winning goal Cambridge City pulling away 7 points clear at the top.
Cambridge City Ladies Development before Sunday’s game (photo credit Chris Mosley)
Very tight below the top two sides with just a point between the next 4 in the Division One North table. Newmarket Town Women ahead of Histon Ladies in 3rd on goal difference winning at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield putting Newmarket into the lead on 18 minutes that the advantage at the break. Sudbury’s young side working hard to improve week in week out coming back to level the scores with and hour played. Newmarket straight back into the lead 5 minutes later a corner won. Jess Linger with the inswinging delivery pressure on the goal line the ball over the line Linger credited with the goal winning the 3 points for her side.
Histon Ladies matching Newmarket’s 14 point tally in 4th position in the Division One North table winning at home to Suffolk side East Bergholt United Ladies at the weekend. Brie Baker setting up Poppy Kelly to open the scoring for Histon on 6 minutes. Molly Blair heading in a Sophie Lanham cross on 27 minutes to see Histon 2-0 up at half-time. East Bergholt coming back to make it 2-1 with Elena Nitsche on target in the 70th minute but with the visitors pushing from an equaliser later on Histon hit them on the counter to win the game 3-1 in the 90th minute Kelly scoring her 2nd of the game. Just one point from their last 5 league games for East Bergholt after a promising start to the season countered by back to back cup wins.
Histon wearing black armbands on Sunday in memory of Stephen Parker who sadly passed away earlier in the week after losing his battle with cancer a tremendous fan and servant of Histon football club helping with the Ladies side recently. Has help me on a number of occasions RIP.
Histon Ladies wearing black armbands in memory of Stephan Parker on Sunday (photo credit Histon Ladies)
Needham Market Women joining Suffolk rivals East Bergholt on 13 points now 5th in the Division One North table with a big home win over bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. Getting off to a fast start Abbie Wilkinson crossing for Francesca Rainbird to score in the 2nd minute. Lina Nagib’s run through into the box seeing the ball deflect off a defender into the path of striker Lois Balfour to make it 2-0 on 21 minutes. A minute later Balfour netted her 2nd of the game heading an Ashleigh Goddard ball. Balfour celebrating her hat-trick a few minutes later turning in Rainbird’s cross. 4-0 at the Annie Northwood introduced to the action with a goal 3 minutes after the restart. Rainbird scoring her 2nd of the game a couple of minutes later Needham market 6-0 with 50 minutes gone. Gorleston capitalising on sloppy play at the back from Needham Market pulling a goal back on the hour. Northwood with her 2nd of the game from a Gemma Moore corner then setting up Abbie Wilkinson to make it 8-1 completed her hat-trick with 3 minutes left. Needham market winning 9-1.
ERWFL Division One South
Two matches in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend leaders Millwall Lionesses away to 3rd placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Millwall unbeaten at the top of the table getting off to a disastrous start conceding 2 goals inside the opening 8 minutes. Millwall settling building some momentum Leigh Ramblers with a 3rd goal disallowed for a foul in the build up. Molly Hawkins forcing a save from Leigh’s keeper. Shannan Drewe with a rocket to pull a goal back for the visitors with 21 minutes gone. 2-1 to Leigh Ramblers at the break Millwall out of the blocks 2nd half Drewe netting her 2nd of the game to level the scores in the 52nd minute. Leigh Ramblers providing a stern test hitting the crossbar midway through the 2nd half. Late drama Leigh Ramblers stealing the ball on the Millwall 18 yards line to retake the lead 3-2. The game into the final minute a free-kick for Millwall floated into the box met by new signing Kaitlyn Lewis to score in her debut. The game ending in a stalemate 3-3. The point enough for Leigh Ramblers to climb above Hutton into 2nd spot in the table their goals scored by Paige White and a brace for Rebecca Dalgarno.
Wodson Park Ladies winning 4-2 in the ERWFL Plate a fortnight ago made it back to back wins this Sunday again at home taking on bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Kristina O’Connell joining from Hoddesdon opening her Wodson Park account with a hat-trick against Sudbury repeated the feat against her former club this weekend with Carly Snell also getting a goal to see Wodson Park win 4-2 to pull away from the bottom two. Sam Garner in the first half and Rebecca Scola in the 2nd scoring for Hoddesdon.
Three sides from the FAWNL Southern and South East Division One reaching the 4th Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup. History already made for both Ipswich Town Women and Billericay Town Ladies from South East Division One getting this far in the competition.
Leading FAWNL South East Division One, Ipswich Town Women beating Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women in the 3rd Round drawn away to another FAWNL Premier Division side in the 4th Round playing in the Northern section, Huddersfield Town Women. The game played at Huddersfield Town FC’s John Smith’s Stadium, the women’s side playing their for the first time. Ipswich getting off to a fantastic start a long clearance forwards, 16-year-old attacker Maddie Biggs giving chase beating both defender and the advancing keeper well out of her area to take the ball on into the empty box and place the ball into the back of the net. Biggs at it again just 8 minutes later to send the visitors into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes pulling away at the near post to head the ball dropped in from the left across the goal to score.
Ipswich Town Women celebrating a goal at the John Smith’s Stadium on Sunday through to the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Ipswich on top pressing numbers forwards going further ahead in the 20th minute Sophie Peskett free on the right sending in a fantastic cross, top scorer Natasha Thomas sliding in at the near post to beat the keeper. Huddersfield with chances themselves Ipswich goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles with a fantastic diving save to deny them a strike from distance. Late in the first half Biggs going on to complete her first senior hat-trick for Ipswich the visitors breaking good work from Thomas against the defence picking out Biggs free inside the box the send the Suffolk side into a 4-0 lead at half-time. Huddersfield came out fighting in the 2nd half Lucy Sowerby with her 18th goal of the season seeing them pull a goal back early in the 2nd half. Runnacles though with a couple more top draw saves to prevent the hosts adding to the score Ipswich’s historic run goes on into the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup the reward a dream tie away to FAWSL side Manchester City Women.
A last gasp winner in the previous round against fellow South East Division One side seeing Billericay Town Ladies making history themselves in the Women’s FA Cup were drawn away to Championship side Lewes FC Women. The Essex side pushing their higher league opponents all the way in the end losing out by just one penalty in the shootout after sending the ti into extra-time. Paula Howells putting Lewes into the lead a great first touch to control the ball outside the box 20 yards out turning and striking home from the half volley. Billericay coming back to level the scores pressure on a Lewes throw on the right leading to the ball being crossed into the area picked up by Therese Addison a drop of the shoulder to take her round a defender before striking the ball across the face of goal into the bottom corner. No further goals added Billericay more than matching Lewes on the pitch the game going into extra-time having to be settled from the penalty spot, 5 kicks each in the shoot out anguish for Billericay’s Zoe Rushen as her kick came back off the post, Lewes successful scoring all 5 of their penalties celebrating as they reach the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup, a tremendous effort from Billericay.
It was top of the FAWNL Northern Premier Division versus top of the Southern Premier Division as Watford made the long trip up to the North East to play Sunderland AFC Ladies. Two of the founding members of FAWSL 2 now the Championship both targeting a return to the league this season meeting in the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup. Sunderland with a strong start to the game Watford chances restricted looked to be heading in goalless at the break, Sunderland’s Keira Ramshaw firing the hosts into the lead in the 45th minute. Watford’s Emma Beckett seeing a free-kick struck from outside the box saved by Sunderland’s keeper on the hour. Watford’s Chrissie Wiggins saving up the other end following a scramble from a corner the game heading into the final 15 minutes, Ramshaw scoring her 2nd of the match to double Sunderland’s lead heading home from a corner kick. Watford unable to find a reply Sunderland advancing to the 5th Round of the competition.
The draw for the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup made live on the BBC News Channel last evening the ties to be played Sunday 16th February as follows:-
Bristol City Women v Everton Women
Coventry United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Women
Leicester City Women v Reading FC Women
Crystal Palace Women of Southampton Women’s FC v Brighton & Hove Albion Women
Manchester City Women v Ipswich Town Women
Arsenal Women v Lewes FC Women
Sunderland AFC Ladies v Birmingham City Women
Chelsea Women v Liverpool FC Women
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
One match played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with leaders Watford Ladies in Women’s FA Cup action, 2nd placed Crawley Wasps Ladies took full advantage to beat 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies at home to move 3 points clear at the top of the table. The hosts taking an early lead inside 2 minutes scoring from their first attack a left wing cross headed out of the area by the Cardiff defence dropping straight to the on rushing Megan Stow from midfield, striking the ball hard from 20 yards out to put Crawley ahead. Crawley strong at the start of the game further chances to extend the lead missed whilst at the back Darcey James made a couple of good challenges to thwart Cardiff. 1-0 at half-time. Cardiff keeper, Laura O’Sullivan with a great save to deny Sam Pittuck in the 2nd half neither side with a clear cut chance after that Crawley awarded a penalty with 15 minutes left to play Naomi Cole putting it away to see Crawley win the game 2-0.
FAWNL Plate
FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women made the long journey into the South West to play Southern Premier Division side Plymouth Argyle Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Plate competition on Sunday. Few opportunities created in the opening quarter hour Plymouth with some good build up play winning a corner kick in the 19th minute the ball played into the box by Helen Bleazard turned in by captain Katie Middleton. Plymouth quickly doubling their lead going 2 up 4 minutes later Bow Jackson putting the ball on for Bethany Everson to round a defender and slot the ball into the bottom corner. Benjamin Kyle with a fantastic save to keep a clean sheet for the hosts at the other end heading into the half-time interval 2-0 up. Plymouth with a good start to the 2nd half it was Stevenage though on the hour that would score the next goal Nicole Emmings running clear from a goalkeepers kick to send the ball into the back of the net. Bleazard causing problems on the wing for Plymouth delivering a cross into the box that saw an own goal scored Plymouth 3-1 with 15 minutes to play going on to win and book their place in he last 4 of the competition. Are joined by Middlesborough Women who beat Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The other two semi-finals featuring Chichester City Ladies and Watford Ladies and Bolton Wanderers v West Bromich Albion played this coming Sunday.
FAWNL South East Division One
One game played also in FAWNL South East Division One and just as in the Southern Premier Division whilst the league leaders Ipswich Town Women were making more history in the Women’s FA Cup, 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies who beat Ipswich last time out took full advantage to move top of the table themselves winning away to Cambridge United WFC. Megen Lynch making her debut in goal for Wimbledon. The visitors taking an early lead Katie Stanley lobbing the keeper from quite some distance to open the scoring. Cambridge restricting Wimbledon in attack after that few chances a goal late in the first period for Wimbledon ruled off for offside. 1-0 at the break Wimbledon going 2-0 midway through the 2nd half Stanley setting up Georgia Heasman to fire in the goal for Wimbledon. Move 2 points clear at the top of the table but still very tight in the top half of South East Division One the chasing sides all with games in hand.
Wasn’t the intention to have a two week break from the football a weekend off and then a game postponed late on seeing no action on Women’s Football East for a fortnight, keen to get back at it this Sunday, the action from the 1st Round of the ERWFL Cup, Wymondham Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies.
The game itself originally due to be played a fortnight ago, cancelled on the day due to Harlow Town Ladies mini-bus being hit by a lorry whilst parked up at the services on route to Norfolk. The game rearranged for this Sunday, a group stage played in the first half of the season between the Division One clubs the 4 group winners going on to the knockout stages of the ERWFL League Cup joined by the 12 Premier Division sides.
The ERWFL Cup is certain to be hotly contested if the league itself is anything to go by, Harlow Town Ladies are well clear at the top but beyond that just 7 points separate 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies down to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in 9th. Wymondham Town Ladies in amongst those currently in 7th spot well placed to push on for a top half finish. Everyone capable to taking points off each other going on a run.
Wymondham Town Ladies promoted two seasons ago along with Harlow, doing well despite having an awful injury list to contend with, several players out with long term injuries including captain and vice-captain Rachel Cossey and Leah Newcombe both suffering bad knee injuries during last season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup win at Carrow Road. Both on the road to recovery Newcombe in particular close to a return. Long term injuries to hitting their defence with Bethany Fretwell, Chardonnay Johnston and Summer Ward all out. New players arriving in the summer, Mia Etheridge from AFC Sudbury and Jennifer Codman from Fakenham Town Ladies. Freya Symonds too with a trio of ex-Ipswich players, Cassie Craddock, Jac Ball and goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Plenty of goals within the squad captain and striker Hannah Waters with 19 to her name top scoring.
Harlow Town Ladies have enjoyed alot of success in their short history regularly winning promotions moving up the women’s football pyramid the Essex side are currently 9 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division and in a strong position to go on and win the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL for the first time in their history. Undefeated have won all but one of their 12 league matches so far this season. The only points dropped way back on the opening day a 1-1 draw with today’s cup opponents Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow coming back to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture. Have brought in several players to add experience to their young squad, goals too, Becky Shephard one of those new arrivals netting 22 goals so far this season.
Ketts Park the home to Wymondham Town Ladies a new venue on the outskirts of the town close to the A11. My first visit to the ground a smart facility offering a main 3G playing surface available for hire. Grass pitches beyond. The clubhouse offering hot drinks with plenty of parking outside. The 3G pitch itself a good size with adequate room for spectators to stand beside the pitch. Overcast conditions rain forecast not expected to arrive until after the game a stiff breeze making it feel chilly. A hot cup of tea welcome.
Both sides with absentees through injury and unavailability on the day. Harlow frustrated having travelled with two new signings but both ineligible to play under league cup rules, alos missing the experience of players such as Nicole Farmer, Georgia Box and Amy Nash, only able to name one substitute. Wymondham likewise having a few missing having just the one on the bench.
Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Danni Clarke, Becca Russell, Chelsea Clarke, Lauren Kett, Jac Ball, Katie Knights, Jennifer Codman, Mollie O’Callaghan, Freya Symonds, Mia Etheridge & Hannah Waters (C) Subs – Cassie Craddock.
Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Tayla Handscombe, Fran Gamble, Kaydee King (C), Mel Jones, Chloe Bassett, Abbey Dell, Beth Chambers, Lucy Edmeades, Becky Shephard & Liv Steele. Subs – Evie Love.
(Roll on roll off substitutes)
Wymondham wearing red shirts and shorts with black shorts to kick-off the first half. Harlow in their away colours yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The hosts playing the ball back into their defence Harlow rushing forwards to press the ball Abbey Dell involved straight away, a long punt forwards cleared by Harlow captain Kaydee King gathered by Wymondham goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Harlow build down their left winning a throw deep in the Wymondham half controlled the cross lifted high towards the top of the area, Freya Symonds up to head clear for Wymondham.
A bright start from Harlow pressing the ball, Wymondham look to break the ball into Mollie O’Callaghan’s feet left side of midfield looks to take it on chopped down inside the Harlow half. A fee-kick given the ball put across the park to Becca Russell forwards on the wing lifts it on for Mia Etheridge the flag goes up against her. O’Callaghan bringing the ball on once again is brought down as she sends it on for Symonds play brought back for the fee-kick, further forwards Chelsea Clarke over it into the box, caught by Harlow goalkeeper, Charlie Orwell.
GOAL! 6 minutes played and an early break through, Harlow take the lead Beth Chambers getting hold of the ball left side inside the Wymondham half playing a dangerous looping diagonal ball in towards the top of the area Chelsea Clarke stretching to clear can only push it into the onrushing Becky Shephard’s path takes it on a yard before driving a powerfully struck shot past Danni Clarke into the back of the net 0-1.
Becky Shephard with the opening goal for Harlow Town Ladies after 6 minutes
Wymondham go on the attack straight from the restart players up and around the 18 yard box, O’Callaghan tries her luck from range 25 yards out off target, Orwell able to come across her goal to collect. Harlow’s Chloe Bassett receiving the ball centrally off a throw in on the left turns and hits a shot goalwards from 25 yards out swearing through the air Danni Clarke back on her line keeps her eyes on it catching safely. Gamble with a great tackle to stop Etheridge from stealing in behind her with the ball on the right side for Harlow.
GOAL!Harlow caught with a high line as Wymondham play the ball forwards Lauren Kett winning it at the ball bringing it on firing a low pass forwards over half way captain Hannah Waters getting away from King to latch onto the ball a carry it on towards the area Orwell coming to the top of her area to close the angle Waters shaping to shot shifting to her right to get wide of the keeper and send the ball on to score. Wymondham back on level terms just 6 minutes after conceding 1-1.
Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters levels the scores
Wymondham with their tails up strong in the middle of the park Etheridge getting hold of the ball taking players on central looks to play a one two with Katie Knights run on in behind as Knights attempts to lift the ball over the defence, Bassett reading it in to take the ball away for Harlow. The visitors looking to make use of the flanks Beth Chambers left side has Dell racing into space on the wing sends the ball in for her to take on down the line a strong run cuts back inside to deliver the cross near post with Shephard making the good run, the attack rising aiming to flick the ball with her boot in across goal doesn’t get enough on it the ball put behind wide.
Beth Chambers striking the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
Lucy Edmeades away into space on the opposite wing sending a dangerous cross into the six yards box too high for Danni Clarke to save, no one coming in at the back post for Harlow. Danni Clarke with an excellent and brave piece of goalkeeping soon after as Harlow thread a long ball through the middle with Liv Steele attacking the area right, Clarke rushing out sliding in to make the blocking save at Steele’s feet, the striker coming off worse for the clash. Harlow win a free-kick wide right a good delivery into the box Steele positioned on the penalty spot cushioning the ball down looking to swing into the shot the Wymondham defence rush in to block at close range.
Steele has take a couple for knocks needs to come off from treatment Harlow making the first change of the match, Evie Love coming on to join Shephard up top. O’Callaghan is certainly in the wars for Wymondham getting clattered again the free-kick striking the wall set up by Harlow Symonds though retrieves for the hosts left side sends in a cross, Orwell coming near post to claim. A competitive game played at a fast past both sides giving free-kicks away Harlow turn with a set-piece inside the Wymondham half, Gamble over the ball towards the left a good way out nevertheless goes for goal a high ball in dropping late Danni Clarke can’t get it the ball clatters against the ball drops back into play stabbed back towards go Clarke back on her line down smartly to save on the line.
Katie Knights on the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies
Katie Knights making several good runs with the ball through the middle for Wymondham sends in through for Waters to chase in attack, Orwell out of her area early trapping the ball with her legs inside the D clearing before Waters can get it. O’Callaghan with a shot from distance bouncing low through towards goal left side Orwell down to save the ball behind for a corner kick. Defending the ball Harlow clear up to half way Evie Love looking to break is fouled by Kett a free-kick awarded. Gamble to play it forwards players up into the box King bringing it down her tough too strong allowing Wymondham to steal in and clear top of the area.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
Is getting a little heated out there a bit of pushing and shoving going on quickly dealt with by the referee the game continues to set a furious pace challenges strong at times. Several players talked too already. A quick free-kick by Gamble into Steele central puts it on quickly Shephard away but adjudged offside as she shoots. Mel Jones turning play around quickly in the middle for Harlow forwards for Shephard beating the offside trap this time can’t control her shot top of the area, Jac Ball back to win possession for Wymondham. Pressuring the ball inside the Wymondham half Harlow’s Bassett gets away on the right crossing from the corner Shephard coming near side sends it wide.
Mollie O’Callaghan weighing up her passing options for Wymondham Town Ladies
Wymondham making ground on the right win a throw the ball into the feet of Waters right corner of the box plays the pass infield to Knights central has O’Callaghan to her left gives her the ball Harlow back defending their area O’Callaghan comes back in central looking to get a shot away finds a way through but not past Orwell as she drops to save the ball. Etheridge and Chambers clash going for the ball, Chambers down landing awkwardly play stopped so she can receive treatment up gingerly play resumes with a free-kick to Harlow to the bemusement of the home support.
Harlow captain Kaydee King clearing the ball
Into the closing moments of the first half, Wymondham also frustrated at the number of offside decisions going against them Waters a constant threat enjoying a fantastic battle with King intriguing to watch Waters thinking she’s got half a yard only to be pulled back by the flag. Dell covering alot of ground across the park for Harlow setting the tone for the game for much of the first half wants to be in the thick of the action breaking up a number of Wymondham moves. The offside flag up against Edmeades on the right a decision that infuriates the Harlow bench. Knights sneaking in to take the ball plays Waters through central not catching her strike cleanly the ball straight at Orwell catch after the initial save pops out of her gloves. The last action of the half.
Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies
A fast paced game so far competitive not alot between the sides, the pace leading to several mistimed challenges plenty of free-kicks given away and knocks being picked up. Harlow with an early goal Wymondham coming straight back to level has remained even Harlow hitting the bar from a free-kick. Changes for both sides at half-time. Cassie Craddock on for Wymondham the players off goalkeeper Danni Clarke suffering a hand injury the tall Freya Symonds donning the gloves for the 2nd period. Chambers off for Harlow with Steele back on.
Harlow to get the 2nd half underway the temperature dropping considerably very chilly on the sidelines now. The visitors getting an early set-piece on halfway King to play the ball out to Edmeades on the right side in space cuts inside no shot on lays the ball across the top of the area for Bassett laying it back to Gamble she floats a high ball in towards goal safely caught by Symonds. Handscombe brings the ball on through the middle for Harlow pushing on towards the D is closed down by three Wymondham defenders Craddock putting in the final tackle to get the ball away O’Callaghan away on the left forwards for Waters to chase Orwell can come to the edge of her area an collect.
Harlow’s Chloe Bassett looking to get the ball away chased by Wymondham’s Mollie O’Callaghan
Codman playing the ball on for Knights in the middle plays it forwards with O’Callaghan forwards on her left cuts back inside, 25 yards out closed down Gamble and King combining. O’Callaghan and Jones with a crunching 50/50 in the middle both hurts but quick to acknowledge the ball was there to be won. Harlow over half way the ball played long to the left side a cross whipping on at pace Chelsea Clarke central sticking a foot out to intercept almost scores an own goal inside the six yard box the ball flashes up to strike the cross bar bouncing down grabbed by Symonds before anyone can follow up from Harlow to score.
Abbey Dell bringing the ball on for Harlow Town Ladies
Wymondham have Etheridge on the ball attacking right a strong run her cross in cleared play brought back for an earlier foul on the winger. Players forwards taken short into the top of the area with O’Callaghan coming for the ball the shot in hesitates shifting it before pulling the trigger a deflection sending it wide for the corner kick. King up well at the near post to defend for Harlow. A flowing attack from Wymondham Knights doing well once again bringing the ball on support from Craddock out to Etheridge on the right plays it back to Russell she swings in the cross long, King up at the far post to win the header for Harlow clearing the threat.
Harlow’s Evie Love ends up riding Wymondham defender Lauren Kett as she slides in to tackle
Kett stepping out of defence sliding in strongly to win a number of tackles for Wymondham is down with an injury, a pause in play Harlow make the change bring Chambers back on for Love on the left. Play resumes Waters doing well to win a corner on the right the ball in cleared firmly by the head of King at the near post. King with the interception and touch back fr her keeper to clear as Knights almost sends the running Waters and Etheridge in on goal for Wymondham. Harlow bring Jones off sending Love back on.
Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe
Wymondham pressure O’Callaghan closing in on the area closed down, Waters almost in Harlow look to play out from the ball O’Callaghan giving chase goes down in agony play stopped straight away the Wymondham midfield in clear distress has hurt her knee, a long pause in play on the field treatment hobbles off can’t continue Wymondham to end the game with 10 with no more substitutes over 15 minutes left to play. Gamble carries the ball on for Harlow up to Steele in attack, Clarke closing her down to tackle for Wymondham the hosts break quickly the ball put through the middle King intercepting.
Wymondham actually upping their intensity despite being a player down, renewed energy to close down the ball Waters keeping King busy the clash of the captains King lunging in to win the ball this time. Chambers finding space on the right incensed at being flagged offside with Harlow playing the ball crossfield from the left. Edmeades forwards on the left sends a cross in attacked near post by Steele up to head the ball plays it over the bar. Love and Shephard combined on the right the former with the back heels Shephard’s cross in bringing a corner kick. Swung into the box central blasted goalwards saved on the line by a combination of defender and goalkeeper.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mia Etheridge
Etheridge storming on down the right side for Wymondham in attack the angle going against her as she unleashes a powerful shot the ball rising smashing against the crossbar falling into the box players in on the follow so too King putting her body in the way to block. The tie on a knife edge could go either way Harlow bring Edmeades off late on sending Jones back into the fray. King with a last ditch tackle to deny Waters inside the box the clock running down Harlow get forwards the ball fed along the ground into Shephard’s feet outside the box left turns and shoots the ball flying over the crossbar. Russell defending late on as Love tries to lift a ball into the box for Steele to run onto. The final whistle blows the cup tie heading into extra-time.
Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies
A really enjoyable game lots of action not much between the sides neither on top, defending well committed and lively in the middle on the cusp of boiling over but both sides want to get on with it. Neither keeper overly tested in the 2nd half clear cut chances at a premium Wymondham doing well at the finish despite their player disadvantage could have snatched a late win. Now another 30 minutes awaits.
Extra-time
Into extra-time Wymondham back up to the full 11 on the field, Danni Clarke able to take up an outfield role comes on to the left wearing Symonds no 18 shirt. Wymondham to get the extra period of play underway 2 15 minute halves for either side to try and find a winning goal or the tie heads to penalties. Good to see O’Callaghan up on her feet her knee iced up. Gamble on the ball for Harlow coming forwards long up to Chambers making a run right side the ball collected by Symonds. Chambers lively at the start of the half picking the ball up has pace drives on Wymondham closing her down.
A long diagonal ball left to right finds Etheridge stealing through into the box on the right she shot sliced though swerves wide of goal. Steele spinning on the ball as it is played into her feet very nearly has Shephard in on goal but for a raised flag. Wymondham get on down the right win corner kick players forwards the ball long beyond the far post knocked down into the path of Danni Clarke, the goalkeeper turned outfield player with a snap shot the ball running wide of the post. Harlow with a corner up the other in inswinging cleared off the line.
Harlow attacking the ball fed into the box a race between Steele and Kett shoulder to shoulder Steele getting a shot away flashes over the bar. All action both sides going for it Etheridge winning Wymondham a corner.
GOAL! Wymondham get their noses in front late in the first period of extra-time the corner taken long over the player rising well at the far post gathered as players rush out towards the ball a cross in flicked on and met by Waters jumping to get her foot on the ball in the centre of goal a yard out couldn’t miss 2-1.
Russell defending as Harlow fling a cross into the area from the right. Bassett gathering the ball deep for Harlow bringing it on well Chambers on the move right side Bassett looks to pick her out but to Chambers dismay she’s flagged offside once again.
Half-time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies
Advantage Wymondham with 15 minutes to play leading 2-1 as Harlow get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. A few spots of rain in the air the visitors on the attack Dell put through right into the box the angle tight drives in a shot the ball held well by Symonds in goal. Harlow pressing at the start of the half looking to put Wymondham on the back foot. Kett stepping out well from the back to win the ball.
Waters sensing space may open up behind moving across the back line getting free momentarily on the left side after the ball, King doing well to get back on her make the challenge. Chelsea Clarke stopping Chambers as she drives towards the box. A Harlow free-kick won 22 yards from goal on the left played into the box cleared Harlow have it back driven into the box deflected wide for a corner. Symonds coping well to get something on the ball to get it away inside a congested six yard box.
Less than 5 minutes left Wymondham attempting to keep possession run the ball into the corners frustrate Harlow. Bassett brings the ball out from the back on for Love, but too much on the ball. Waters across to charge down King as she attempts to launch the ball up field. Time almost up Kett winning another tackle Harlow can’t get a clear chance on goal late on no way through. The final whistle blows and Wymondham are through to the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup beating Harlow 2-1 in extra-time.
Full time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies
Another close contest between the two sides both short on numbers on the day a committed and entertaining cup tie. Early goals the game played at a fast pace several strong challenges and tempers frayed at times but never boiling over. A few bruises to show for the cause the following day I think. Wymondham holding on well with 10 getting back up to 11 for extra-time getting their noses in front. Harlow frustrated a lack of options from the bench not helping out of cup competitions in successive weeks, the focus now on the league and in a strong position to push for the title.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders it has to be said and narrowing it down to one wasn’t easy. Starting wit the stand out performers for Harlow, an excellent game at the back for Kaydee King strong and had her hands full with Hannah Waters. In the middle of the park great energy shown by Abbey Dell covered alot of ground and her energy set the tone for the game. For Wymondham was impressed by Katie Knights in the middle several great runs and setting up attacks, Waters leading the line well. The defence doing well as a unit Freya Symonds didn’t look out of place in goal 2nd half. The award though goes to Lauren Kett won numerous challenges in the centre of defence and set up the opening goal.
An enjoyable first trip to Ketts Park, an entertaining game just what was needed after two weeks without a game. Played at a fast pace two committed teams could have gone either way Wymondham finding the winner in extra-time. My thanks to both teams for today’s starting line-ups.
The County Cup action continues across both Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this weekend with both competitions at the semi-final stage. Beginning with the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup, Luton Town Ladies had seen off rivals and current holders Bedford Ladies in the quarters finals were away to AFC Dunstable Women in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday. Both playing in the ERWFL, Dunstable’s new look young side struggling for points at the bottom of the table on a steep learning curve doing well to hold Luton to a goalless first half. Luton taking the lead 7 minutes into the 2nd half Ellie Sargeant with an absolute worldie to score her 1st goal for the club. 20 minutes left to play Dunstable fighting back to level the scores Lottie Nicholls with her first Dunstable goal. Luton though coming straight back to retake the lead with top scorer Jess McKay’s 14th goal of the season enough to take Luton into another Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup final.
The BHWGFL was already gaurenteed representation in a County Cup final this season as the other semi-final in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup saw Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies at home to Division Two title challengers Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Scoring plenty of goals Woburn & Wavendon have also proved hard to break down at times this season and both saw them to victory in their semi-final clash. Keeping Houghton Athletic from scoring at one end ht them for 6 at the other end to book their spot in the final. Top scorer Giselle Randall scoring 4 in the game to move her to 17 for the season a brace in both halves. Georgia-Rose Edwards with two goals in the final 5 minutes to finish the scoring.
The Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2pm kick-off further details to be announced.
Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup
Semi-final weekend too in Hertfordshire the Women’s Challenge Cup, and it will be a repeat of last season’s final with Stevenage FC Women and holders Watford U23s winning thier respective games on Sunday.
Stevenage FC Women were at home taking on Watford Ladies Development. the FAWNL South East Division One side enjoying alot of success recently in the County Cup taking the lead through Ashleigh Deacon’s 3rd strike of the season, captain Amy Makewell firing home her 13th goal of the season doubling Stevenage’s advantage midway through the 2nd half to send them into the final itself for the sixth consecutive year.
Amy Makewell with her 13th goal of the season helping to secure Stevenage FC Women a sixth consecutive County Cup Final appearance (photo credit Gary Reed)
Holders Watford U23s were away to ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies in their semi-final at the weekend. Top scorer Samaira Khan coming on in the 38th minute opening the scoring in the 39th rounding the keeper to make it 1-0. Colney Heath with the advantage at half-time chances to extend their lead were restricting Watford’s chances at the other end the visitors though coming back to level with 15 minutes left to play through an unfortunate own goal ricocheting in off the keeper. Watford winning the game with 2 minutes left on the clock a looping ball forwards sent home to see them through to a 2nd successive cup final.
The Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2;30pm kick-off at the County Ground Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Four games played across the 3 divisions in the BHWGFL this weekend. 2nd placed St Albans Ladies in action were at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday A 2-2 draw with leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies last weekend kept the gap between them to 3 points St Albans with a game in hand playing again this Sunday a positive result taking them top of the table on goal difference. Top scorer Eleanor Lovelock opening the scoring in the first half her 24th goal if the season coming in the 26th minute. Millie Guest with her first goal of the season just past the hour securing a 2-0 win for St Albans to sent them top of the league.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Two games played in Beds & Herts Division Two this Sunday despite what my results posts may have led you to believe. AFC Dunstable Blues going top of the table last weekend were at home again this weekend taking on Garston Ladies Vintage Purples. The damage done in the opening 10 minutes a quick fire double seeing Dunstable into a 2 goal lead, Kerry Mulvihill-Reed on target to score her 4th goal of the season in the 8th minute, Nicola Hollick scoring her 21st of the season 2 minutes later, Garston unable to find a reply, Dunstable with further chances to extend their lead move 5 points clear of 3rd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies.
Keeping pace with Dunstable in 2nd though are Langford Ladies remain a point behind as they won well away from home on Sunday in Division Two against Sherrardswood Ladies. Scoring half as many goals as Dunstable so far this season have by far the tightest defence in the league conceding just 3 goals so far from 8 played, another clean sheet at the weekend. Amber Clark with half of Langford’s goals, netting a hat-trick at the weekend to put her onto 15 for the campaign so far, Sophie Bounds also celebrating a goal along with Harriet Ford on the scoresheet for the first time this season Langford winning 5-0.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One game in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three to report on, Biggleswade United Ladies moving back into 2nd spot with a comfortable home win over Flitwick Eagles Ladies on Sunday. Kayleigh Saunders scoring 5 times to see her closing in on 20 goals for the season. The goals spread around elsewhere with 4 other players on the scoresheet. Zoe Molloy collecting her 10th goal of the season, Tashai Simms putting the ball into the back of the net for her 7th a goal too for Jodie Molloy and a first Biggleswade goal for Vikki Ransom. The final score 9-0.
The County Cup action quarter final action continues across this weeks edition of The Round-Up, with a place up of grabs in both the Essex Women’s County Cup and Trophy competitions this Sunday. A strong line-up in the last 8 of the County Cup competition. Current holder Billericay Town Ladies amongst the title challengers in FAWNL South East Division One away to a side hoping to join them in the league next season Harlow Town Ladies currently top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Early chances for Billericay saves from the goalkeeper to deny the visitors the dead lock broken midway through the first half Billericay with a throw high on the left keeping possession before squaring the ball into the area for Zoe Rushen to control and lay off for Jay Blackie to collect and strike home from 20 yards out. Harlow back on level terms less than 5 minutes later Blackie scoring at the other end the sun an issue at that end of the ground a free-kick played in high by Amy Nash, Blackie up to try and head clear instead looped back over everyone to fall inside the post. Billericay keeping the pressure on pushing on further opportunities retaking the lead in the 36th minute a corner from the right long beyond the far post laid back to Therese Addison free in the box to lash home to make it 2-1. Billericay leading at half-time. Karissa Rodney giving the visitors a 2 goal cushion with 20 minutes left to play following good work by defender Lucy Jones up on the left a high ball played in towards the far post Rodney ghosting in to smash the ball home and send the holders into the last four.
A Basildon derby in the quarter finals on Sunday as AFC Basildon Women’s first team were drawn ‘away’ to their Development side in the quarter finals of the County Cup. A Basildon side gaurenteed to reach the semi-finals a good contest with both goalkeepers called into action to make a number of fine save Amy Dodds awarded player of the match for the Development side the first team coming out on top with Courtney Clarke their star performer the winning score 6-0.
AFC Basildon Women’s Courtney Clarke (photo credit Little James Photography)
Plenty of goals too else where in the quarter finals of the Essex Women’s County Cup. ERWFL Premier Division newcomers Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at home looking to progress as they took on Leigh Ramblers Ladies new to the ERWFL themselves, Bowers & Pitsea not taking their lower league opponents lightly having fallen foul to them in the Women’s FA Cup last season. In the end a 7 goal thriller between the sides including a stoppage time winner. A fantastic start to the game by Bowers & Pitsea taking the lead in the 10th minute Sade Walters laying the ball back for Donna Fletcher to smash in from 20 yards. The hosts applying plenty of pressure looking good going forwards further chances coming it was against the run of play though that Leigh Ramblers came back to level the scores. Bowers & Pitsea undeterred kept up their attacks it was the visitors though who would take the lead late in the first half, a mix-up at the back leading to the ball been stolen and lobbed over the keeper to make it 2-1. Bowers & Pitsea seeing an immediate reply chalked off for offside.
Leigh Ramblers 2-1 up at the break, Bowers & Pitsea out of the blocks quickly to equalise Sade Walters heading home from a Megan Harley cross in the 49th minute. An exciting cup tie both teams giving it their all the game moving onto the final 15 minutes and the visitors were in front again latching onto a loose pass in midfield to take the ball on slide into the bottom corner Leigh Ramblers 3-2 ahead. Bowers & Pitsea coming back for a 2nd time in the match 5 minutes later Courtney Fraser setting up Georgia Fraser in space to slot the ball home 3-3 the game on a knife edge into stoppage time 92 minutes on the clock Ronni Harrison with the pass into Georgia Fraser her short cannoning down off the crossbar up into the roof of the net to see Bowers & Pitsea with it 4-3.
Plenty of goals in both Collier Row Tigers top of the ECWFL Premier Division and Hutton Ladies from the ERWFL Division One South. Hutton unbeaten in the league reaching the last 4 of the County Cup last season aiming to repeat the feat scoring 4 goals in the tie. However that wasn’t enough as Collier Row Tigers saw the ECWFL represented in the semi-finals of the County Cup as they put 7 goals past their opponents to win the game. No goals for top scorer Laura Bunton last weekend she was saving them for this Sunday scoring a hat-trick putting her on 36 for the season to date. Emma Harrison netting a brace moves into double figures with a goal each for Ammarah Ali and Helen Moriera.
The draw made live on BBC Essex radio just a short while ago the semi-final line up as follows ties to be played Sunday 16th February:-
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Collier Row Tigers
Billericay Town Ladies v AFC Basildon Women
Essex Women’s Trophy
The quarter finals too for the Essex Women’s Trophy this weekend. Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies already through to the last four of the competition after being awarded the away win agianst Holland Ladies. One tie falling foul to the weather Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves home game with Hutton Ladies Reserves. That left two games to be played.
Lawford Ladies reaching the final of the competition last season haven’t had the best of season’s so far in the league the ERWFL side facing Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in last seasons final were at home to their new Development side in the quarter finals this time around. A slow start from the visitors Lawford taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores Sophie Thomas finding the top corner. Lawford retaking the lead going onto to add a further too leading 4-1, Ema Neilson-Gee with her first goal for the club getting it back to 4-2. Lawford scoring from a corner to win the game 5-2 at the final whistle. Captain Dais Canny with a brace, two also for Nicola Gooch her first of the season and a first of the season too for Gemma Issacs.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves completing in the FAWNL South East Reserves League were away to Essex Women’s Division One side Aveley Ladies in this Sunday’s Trophy quarter final. The visitors racking up the goals as they powered their way into the last four of the competition. Rosie Richards scoring a hat-trick there was a brace each for Freya Fuller and Leigha Bradding-Butler. With Mya Turner, Frankie Hendricks and Jay Johnson all celebrating a goal each in a 10-0 win.
The semi-final draw for the Essex Women’s Trophy already made tie games to be played on Sun 16th February are as follows:-
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves v Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies
Lawford Ladies v Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves or Hutton Ladies Reserves
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Silver End United Ladies finally back in action since way back in mid-November, their first game of 2020 coming this Sunday away to Rayleigh Town Ladies in the Essex Women’s Premier Division losing ground to leaders Collier Row Tigers in that time remain well placed in 2nd spot losing just once this season. Rayleigh Town coming into the game off back to back wins. The long lay off not affecting Silver End despite Rayleigh scoring twice trough Isabelle Wallings and Amy Cox. A brace from Rebecca Henderson her first goals of the season plus a goal from Rebecca Hollocks on her first appearance. Sarah Jolly with her 5th of the season and Rosi Webb with her 10th securing a 5-2 victory for Silver End.
Chelmsford City Ladies back up to 3rd in the Premier Division table as they ended a poor run of 3 straight defeats with victory at home to Billericay Town Ladies Development on Sunday. Georgia James scoring in the first half for Chelmsford. Hannah Phillips on target for Billericay 1-1 late in the game moving onto stoppage to Mia Brisley scoring twice in stoppage time to secure the win for Chelmsford 3-1 scoring in the 92nd & 94th minute.
Mia Brisley with a stoppage time brace to win the game for Chelmsford City Ladies (photo credit Ian Kendle)
Essex Women’s Division One
One game in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday, Tigers Ladies ending a run of 3 straight defeats in the league winning the 3 points away from home at the weekend in a close game with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. Goals from Jemma Gardner and Megan Nicholls helping the visitors to secure a 3-2 win that moves Tigers from 2nd bottom up to 6th in what remains a very close battle for places above Tigers with games in hand on both 4th and 5th placed Aveley Ladies and Chigwell Ladies with the gap now 3 points.
