Monthly Archives: January 2020

The Round-Up – Norfolk 19/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

Quarter final weekend for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 3 of the 4 games played this Sunday with Sprowston Athletic Ladies game with Norwich City Women postponed. Current holders and back to back winners of the County Cup, Wymondham Town Ladies were at home taking on Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies who themselves have enjoyed success in the County Cup in the recent past. Wymondham starting well Thorpe defending missed opportunities too Wymondham opening the scoring with the half hour fast approaching striker Hannah Waters sending the ball into the back of the net after her initial shot was saved. That lead to a flurry of goals for the hosts the lead doubled quickly with Jennifer Codman setting up Laura Nicholls to make it 2-0 just 3 minutes later, a 3rd goal scored just 2 minutes after that Nicholls on the scoresheet again heading home a Mollie O’Callaghan cross.

Wymondham leading 3-0 at half-time took full control of the tie early in the 2nd starting well scoring 2 quick goals after the restart to go 5-0 up. Waters with her 2nd of the match in the 48th minute latching onto a loose back pass. Combination play between Waters and Nicholls then leading to Freya Symonds sending the ball past the keeper to make it 5-0 in the 49th minute. Symonds scoring her 2nd of the game just 5 minutes later scoring at the far post from a Chelsea Clarke cross. Thorpe scoring a late consolation goal with 10 minutes left to play captain Rebekah Lake onto a ball over the top.

A 7 goal thriller between Tavern Ladies and Wroxham Women as they met in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup on Sunday. Tavern hosting doing well this season in the league following promotion to Division One scoring goals a tough test on Sunday against ERWFL Premier Division side Wroxham. The visitors starting well early chances the pressure bringing the opening goal inside 6 minutes Naomi Cooper with a good run on the ball cutting inside to send a shot under the keeper. Tavern with less of the ball still a threat in attack keeping Wroxham alert at the other end chances missed by both Tavern coming back to level before half an hour was in the clock. Wroxham responding well straight back into the lead Cooper and captain Anna Larkins combining the cross turned in at the far post by Kayleigh Holloway. Cyan Fullbrook with a fantastic diving one handed save to keep Tavern from equalising again the hosts drawing level on the stroke of half-time. 2-2 at the break with Wroxham’s Kirstie Kindred striking the top of the woodwork in stoppage time.

Match action from Tavern Ladies v Wroxham Women (photo credit Wroxham Women)

Into the 2nd half Tavern starting well both sides forcing the keepers into saves the lower league side taking the lead in the 50th minute going 3-2 up. Wroxham on the attack coming back to level themselves in the 70th minute Larkins and Cooper again combining on the flank the cross headed clear of the box falling straight to Chloe Shields to strike on the volley to make it 3-3. Wroxham finishing strong chances to retake the lead a corner in the 80th minute leading to a penalty being given for handball Lauren Bullard stepping up to score and make it 4-3. Wroxham into the draw for the semi-finals.

To be made live on BBC Radio Norfolk on Friday evening also in the hat are Sprowston Ladies the Division One side winning at home to Division Two opposition Hockering Ladies. A 2nd heavy defeat for the visitors in cup competitions in successive weeks Tavern knocking them out of the League Cup, Sprowston racking up the goals this Sunday to win the game 15-0.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Two matches beating the weather in Norfolk Women’s Division One featuring the sides bottom two. Positive results for both on Sunday. Bottom side Freethorpe Ladies were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies. Has been tough for both sides following promotion to Division One this season and both knew it would be. Thetford’s recent form picking up earning some useful points a win against Taverham last weekend taking them out of the bottom two. Freethorpe working hard every game bottom haven’t got a point on the board after 10 played. That changed at the weekend as Freethorpe were celebrating earning their first point of the season. Olivia Sutton with her first goal of the season giving Freethorpe a first half lead. Thetford coming back to level the scores in the 2nd half to see it end 1-1. Rebecca White with the goal.

A tough season too for Taverham United Ladies following promotion as Division Two champions in their debut season dropping into the bottom two after being beaten 2-1 by Thetford last weekend. Were at home this Sunday taking on 5th placed Fakenham Town Ladies. Injury and illness affecting the visitors Taverham doing well to get their 3rd league win of the season go back above Thetford. Rebecca Sutton on target with her 8th goal of the season with Hannah Artis firing home her first of the campaign to see the match won 2-0.

Hannah Artis scoring her first goal of the season for Taverham United Ladies at the weekend.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this weekend. Waveney Ladies moving up to 3rd in the league after grabbing a last minute winners last weekend in a dramatic game away to North Walsham Angles Ladies. Were on the road again this weekend taking on Horsford Women a less dramatic game with neither side able to breach their opponents defend they had to settle for a point each in a 0-0 draw.

That results sees Thorpe United Ladies Reserves climb above Waveney back into 3rd spot in Division Two on goal difference as they won at home to struggling Red Rose Ladies on Sunday. Red Rose short of a full side Thorpe were welcoming back Shanice Sutton returning to the pitch after a long lay off due to a nasty knee injury suffered at the back end of the season before last. Carried on were she left off scoring plenty of goals that season hit the ground running by scoring 4 on her first start back. A first of the season too for Kirstie Andrews. Mia Calver also on the scoresheet with a goal with Chloe Musson-Pipe netting a brace in an 8-0 victory.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 19/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th January

Suffolk Women’s County Cup

The Suffolk Women’s County Cup reaching the quarter final stage this weekend. Ipswich Town Women dominating the competition in recent season’s by far the strongest side in the county, reaching their highest league position topping the FAWNL South East Division One and making history a fortnight ago to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup. A daunting test for Suffolk Women’s Division side Brantham Athletic Ladies hosting Ipswich in the last 8 of the County Cup this Sunday. Ipswich resting several players giving a chance for others within the squad, the visitors in front inside the opening 2 minutes Zoe Cossey latching onto a loose ball to make it 1-0. Roxanne Small making it 2-0 just 5 minutes later seeing her initial shot saved putting in on the follow-up. Top scorer Natasha Thomas making it 3-0 inside 10 minutes her shot in off the post. Ellie Rossiter back in the side after injury kept her out earlier in the season on target for Ipswich’s 4th just a minute later. Assistant manager Paige Shorten out in the the middle for Ipswich this Sunday up with the attack volleying in to make it 5-0 after Thomas’ overhead kick falls straight to her. Linsey Cooper heading home from a corner to see the visitors 6-0 up with half an hour gone. That the lead at the break.

Ipswich continuing to dominate in the 2nd half Thomas scoring in the 52nd minute to celebrate her 20th goal of the season went on to net a hat-trick on the hour following a mazy run from Cossey. Rossiter with her 2nd of the match scoring under pressure from the top of the area to make it 9. Nicole Pannifer with her first of the season seeing Ipswich into double figures with 15 minutes to play. Cossey with her 2nd of the game a couple of minutes later a 4th goal for Thomas soon after turning the ball into the net after the keeper saved Cossey’s shot. Chloe Dunn from close range scoring late on with Rossiter running on in the 90th minute setting up captain Amanda Crump to make the final score 14-0.

Needham Market Women one of the emerging women’s football sides in Suffolk hoping to push on and match the success of Ipswich new to the game last season had a fabulous debut campaign with a 2nd placed finish in the league along with final appearances in both the League and County Cups. Will be aiming to reach the County Cup final once again this season now promoted to the ERWFL were at home to Norfolk Division Two title hopefuls Beccles Town Ladies in the quarter finals this weekend. Needham Market making a fantastic start taking the lead inside the opening 3 minutes a superb strike from Francesca Rainbird outside the box bringing the ball down brilliantly and catching it sweetly on the volley yo make it 1-0. Set the tone as Needham Market blew away their opponents in the opening minutes. Captain Nicola Henderson celebrating her birthday with a goal firing home a 25 yard free kick in the 7th minute. Lois Balfour in to lob the keeper just 4 minutes later. The whirlwind start continuing as Lina Nagib played in Jodie Sharp to score their 4th on 15 minutes. Beccles hit for 4 in the first 15 minutes pulling a goal back Francesca Catchpole robbing the keeper, but just a minute later Needham Market restored their 4 goal lead Balfour’s 2nd of the game in off the post. Rainbird seeing the hosts into a 6-1 lead at the break with her 2nd of the game following good build-up play.

(photo credit Ben Pooley)

Into the 2nd half Needham Market continuing where they left off creating plenty of chances in attack pushing players forwards. Beccles managing to hold off the onslaught with the game closing in on the final 15 minutes a quickfire double from Annie Northwood tapping on from close range then striking on the half volley putting the hosts 8-1 up. Rainbird going on to complete her hat-trick in the final minute 9-1 the final score.

East Bergholt United Ladies are alos into the draw for the last 4 of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup winning at home on Sunday against Suffolk Women’s Division newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies. East Bergholt promoted to the ERWFL this season following back to back league and cup doubles in Suffolk booking their spot in the last 4 courtesy of goals from Cara Savage, Katie Bruce, Stacey Teager and Georgia Lockerbie to see them beat Henley Athletic 4-1.

Brettvale Ladies make up the semi-final line-up for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup representing the Suffolk Women’s Division, making history in the process, enjoying a fantastic 2nd season in women’s football are also into the last 4 of the League Cup aswell as challenging for the league itself. Brettvale were at home to another side flying high in the Suffolk Women’s Division in the quarter finals Needham Market Women Reserves. Brettvale coring 3 without reply making history in the County Cup, will be homing for a home draw in the semi-final draw to be made live on BBC Radio Suffolk on Thursday night’s Sport Social between 8:30 & 9pm.

Suffolk Women’s Division

Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and once again it was another huge game at the top of the table this weekend that saw 2nd placed Woodbridge Town Ladies away to 4th placed Bury Town Ladies. Bury going top a fortnight ago beating Brettvale lost to the same opponents last Sunday seeing Brettvale back to the top. Woodbridge’s great form seeing them up to 2nd with successive wins over Needham Market Women Reserves their fantastic run continuing this weekend as they beat Bury Town, Lucy Eagle joining Woodbridge from Leiston St Margarets has been amongst the goals during that run now 4 in a row and 9 from 10 played scoring this Sunday to give her 9 from 8 played. Top scorer Jenna Liverpool setting the league alight scoring twice at the weekend taking her past 40 goals for the season from just 16 games. 3-1 the winning score Bury Town suffering back to back defeats very disappointed with their performance.

Just 1 point from their last 5 games and 4 straight losses in the league Alresford Colne Rangers had found themselves slipping down the Suffolk Women’s Division after making a solid start to the season. Got back to winning ways away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies this Sunday to climb back up to 5th in the league. Kesgrave short on numbers not able to field a full side Alresford took full advantage to win the game 3-0. Jasmine Warner on target to score a brace giving her 6 goals for the season with Kirsty Belfall also on the scoresheet.

7 points now for Leiston St Margarets Ladies as they continue to pull their way out of the battle at the bottom of the Suffolk Women’s Division. At home to another side down at the wrong end of the table were taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Continues to be a frustrating season for Chantry just the two wins so far this season have been unlucky not to take more points. A close game again this weekend a single goal winning the game Grace Pemberton with her 3rd goal of the season securing the 3 points for Leiston St Margarets.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 19/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A mixture of league and cup football across Cambridgeshire this weekend. clubs scattering from the higher leagues to take part in their various County Cup competitions, either at the quarter of semi-final stage this weekend. For Cambridgeshire it was the quarter finals of both the Women’s Invitation Cup and Junior Invitation Cup more on those in a bit.

Beginning first with the league action this weekend some disruption due to the weather too there were two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. Netherton United Ladies the big movers as they climb from 10th up to 7th spot winning away from home against St Ives Town Ladies Development at the weekend. Travelled with an injury hit squad several out, players coming in to get a full side out new signing Sasha Haw making her debut Netherton despite the enforced changes starting well Gemma Galloway letting fly from the edge of the area putting Netherton into a 6th minute lead. The visitors doubling their advantage with the game closing in on the half hour Hannah Johnson intercepting the ball setting up Katie Barber to score her 6th goal of the season, St Ives rallied but for a superb save from stand in goalkeeper Lissy Crutchfield and a goal line clearance would have gone in level at the break, Netherton though keeping it at 2-0. St Ives with a strong start to the 2nd half pulling it back to 2-1 on the hour, Netherton with and immediate response Barber again firing her 2nd of the match into the roof of the net. The game one end to the other St Ives applying pressure again getting it back to within a goal 2-3 Netherton getting another quick reply 15 minutes to play Holloway sending the ball in seeing the game won 4-2 extending Netherton’s unbeaten run to 8 in all competitions.

Back to back league wins for Cambridge University Women sees them up a place to 9th in the Premiership table all very tight in the middle of the table are just 3 points behind 5th placed March Town United Ladies. Away to bottom side Riverside Ladies this Sunday running out comfortable winners in the finish Amanda Wainwright taking over as top scorer netting a hat-trick to put her onto 8 for the season. Elsewhere their were first goals of the season for 4 players with a goal each for Lina Cai, Anna O’Leary, Taylor Lynn-Jones and a brace for Lu Liu. Cambridge University winning 8-1. Ines Sopia Lopes with the Riverside goal.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Two league matches took place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this Sunday. A top of the table clash seeing 2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies away to 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies both newcomers to the league this season enjoying strong debuts. 2 points the gap a fantastic result for Eaton Socon a hat-trick for Emily Whiteman seeing her become top scorer so far along with a brace for Samantha Webster securing a 5-2 win the 3 points lifting Eaton Socon up to 2nd themselves in the Championship with their 9th win of the season. Mildenhall’s scorers Katie Hayes and Nadine Basson with her first goal for the club.

A much welcomed win for Deeping United Ladies at the weekend pushing them back up to 8th in the Championship table bringing and end to a long run of defeats that had undone a promising start to life in the Championship since joining in the summer. Were at home to Haverhill Rovers Development. Hannah Chapman running away with the goals for Deeping adding another 2 to her tally at the weekend enough to secure Deeping United’s first league point since November, her 17th and 18th winning the game 2-1. Jemma Wright scoring for Haverhill Rovers.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

Never an easy task finding info on the County Cup competitions in Cambridgeshire but both the Invitation and Junior Invitation Cups were at the quarter final stage this weekend. 8 ties scheduled for the senior competition the current holders Cambridge United WFC not involved this season. The tie between March Town United Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies postponed due to a water logged pitch will try again this coming Sunday. Newmarket Town Women through to the semi-finals with opponents Cambridge Rangers Women forfeiting the tie.

That left two quarter final ties to be played. ERWFL Division One North side Histon Ladies were hosting Leverington Sports Ladies at the weekend. A close tie on paper with not much separating the sides in terms of league placement Leverington Sports 2nd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the sides all square at the break, Leverington in front with 29 minutes played through an unfortunate own goal. Histon coming straight back to level just 3 minutes later captain Sophie Lanham providing the cross for Poppy Kelly to flick in off her head to equalise. 2 goals early in the 2nd half sending Histon into a 3-1 lead Kirsty Geal turning in a squared ball from Sydney Graham in the 53rd minute Alison Wright quickly adding Histon’s 3rd. Rebekah Finch securing Histon’s spot in the last 4 of the competition with a goal in the final 4 minutes to see it end 4-1.

Championship side Park Ladies finding their form in recent games to climb the table were away to Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup. Fulbourn with a potent attack building this season between Ebony Rule and Marie Stubbings both amongst the goals this weekend proving too much for Park to contend with, Rule on target to score 4 in the game taking her to 15 for the season. Stubbings scoring another hat-trick giving her 24 from 13 game so far this season. Krissie Taylor and Eleanor Woodley also celebrating a goal each in a 9-0 win.

The draw for the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup made to be played on Sun 16th February are as follows:-

March Town United Ladies or Cambridge City Ladies v Newmarket Town Women

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Histon Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup

The quarter finals stage too for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup final, Histon Ladies Reserves through to the last 4 awarded the home win over Isleham Sporting Youth Ladies who withdrew from the league early in the season. 3 ties to be played and one of those again falling foul to the weather, Burwell Tigers Ladies home tie against Newmarket Town Ladies Development will go again this Sunday.

Two games played Championship side Cambourne United Women were hosting Cambridge City Ladies new A team, the young side competing in the Premiership both sides have seen periods of form and dips throughout the season. It was Cambridge City who came out on top on Sunday to reach the last 4 of the competition. Two goals for Jess Elliot along with one for Sasha Tristram and a first for the side for Yael Benyamin in just her 2nd appearance securing a 4-0 win.

Cambridge City Ladies A through to the last 4 of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup (photo credit Cambridge City Ladies)

Also reaching the last four of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup are Swavesey Spartan Ladies. Despite struggling for points in the Championship the bottom side having already reached the quarter finals of the League Cup came out on top to clinch a narrow 2-1 win away to fellow Championship side Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Meadow Wooldridge with her 4th goal of the season and Alexandra Herbert with her 3rd winning the game 2-1 to Swavesey. Laura Todd on the scoresheet for Isleham.

The semi-final draw for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation cup as follows ties to be played Sunday 9th February:-

Cambridge City Ladies A v Burwell Tigers Ladies or Newmarket Town Ladies Development

Histon Ladies Reserves v Swavesey Spartans Ladies

The Round-Up – Suffolk 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Suffolk Women’s Division

The battle for the title in Suffolk growing more intense last weekend as we saw a 4 way tie at the top of the table a quartet of sides all on 30 points, Bury Town Ladies beating leaders Brettvale Ladies to move top on goal difference. All change at the top again this weekend Brettvale bouncing straight back from last weeks 5-0 loss in reverse fixture played this weekend to win the 3 points and return to the top of the league. The pair plying another competitive game Tarnya McKew netting a brace for Brettvale joins Abbie Fisher as top scorer both on 14. A goal too for Gemma Burnett her first for the club in just her 2nd appearance. Brettvale winning 3-1.

Also the reverse fixture for the other pair firmly locked into the title race as Woodbridge Town Ladies looking to continue thier excellent form which has seen them win 8 of their last 9 league matches. A good result last weekend as they ended Needham Market Women Reserves 100% record to join them on 30 points at the top of the table. A 3-0 win to Woodbridge at home last Sunday travelling this weekend to face Needham Market for the 2nd successive week. Isobel Chaplin scoring for Needham Market seeing the hosts holding a 1-0 lead at half-time. Woodbridge dug deep battling well in the 2nd half to come back to level and go on to score twice more to win the game 3-1 and move 2nd in the Suffolk Women’s Division level on points with Brettvale at the top. Another goal for top scorer Jenna Liverpool 39 now for the season. Lucy Eagle prolific since joining Woodbridge on target for her 8th goal in 7 appearances with Stacey Hadley also celebrating a goal.

Needham Market v Woodbridge (photo credit Ben Pooley)

The fixture reversals from the opening Sunday of 2020 continuing Henley Athletic Ladies were on the road this weekend playing Brantham Athletic Ladies. Henley winning last weekends encounter 7-2. Plenty of goals again this weekend. Brantham making a fast start Lucy Dunnett with her 5th goal of the season firing the hosts into a 3rd minute lead. Henley coming straight back to level the scores. Brantham retaking the lead before 10 minutes were on the clock Maddie Hubbard on the scoresheet to make it 2-1. Top scorer Rebecca Prime hitting her 10th goal of the season with 21 minutes gone to see Brantham leading 3-1 at half-time. Shannon Giles firing Brantham into a 4-1 lead 2 minutes into the 2nd half. Henley pulling a goal back inside the final 15 minutes. Hubbard with her 2nd of the match in the 90th minute securing a 5-2 win. Amy Gilson and Emma Long with the Henley goals.

Leiston St Margarets Ladies with a confidence boosting win to start 2020 last weekend at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies the 5-0 result just their 2nd win of the campaign the two meeting in the reverse fixture this Sunday. A battling performance from Ramsey & Mistley leading to a much closer game this time around the game ending in a 1-1 draw the points shared the hosts with a chance to win the game towards the end. Becky Page with her first goal for Ramsey & Mistley. Sarah Cooper with the goal for Leiston St Margarets.

Brightlingsea Regent Ladies over haul Alresford Colne Rangers to climb above them into 6th place in the Suffolk Women’s Division as the two sides over the boarder in Essex met at the weekend. Brightlingsea travelling to Alresford who won the reverse fixture back in November 2-1. Their form has dipped since as Brightlingsea’s has picked up a 4th successive win on the league putting them up to their highest position since joining last season. Top scorer Hannah Goldsmith netting a brace has 21 goals from 13 appearances, Lucy Tilbury also getting a goal in a 3-1 win her 14th of the season. Jasmine Warner scoring for Alresford.

The Round-Up – Essex 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Two matches played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. leader Collier Row Tigers extending their lead at the top of the table to 9 points over Silver End United Ladies as they won for the 10th time this season at home to Chelmsford City Ladies. A rare occasion when top scorer Laura Bunton didn’t score for Collier Row Tigers, there are plenty of goals elsewhere within the squad however. Roseanne Shafier also enjoying a prolific season in front of goal on target to score a brace at the weekend giving her 16 for the season. Daisy Cook getting a goal along with a first of the season for Emma Best to secure a 4-1 win. Abigail Woolvin scoring the goal for Chelmsford.

Has been a tough start to life in the Premier Division for Rayleigh Town Ladies a good start with 4 points from their opening 2 matches went of to suffer 6 straight losses to end 2019. 2020 beginning on a positive note with a 4-3 win over Chelmsford last weekend, made it back to back wins this weekend at home to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A hat-trick for last season’s top scorer Isabelle Wallings last weekend she was on target for a brace on Sunday to move to 13 for the season with Amy Leach scoring on her Rayleigh debut to seal a 3-1 win. Beacon Hill now 7 points adrift at the bottom of the table with just one win so far this season, Jo Smeaton scoring the visitors goal.

Essex Women’s League Cup

This Sunday saw one tie played in this season’s Essex Women’s League Cup. The competition seeing a Preliminary Round being played with 17 sides across both leagues to bring it down to 16 for the 1st Round. Premier Division side Southend United Ladies drawn out of the bag away to Aveley Ladies. The Division One side taking the lead with Brittany Murray scoring to put them 1-0. Southend coming back to level the scores top scorer Ellie Wood on target to make it 1-1 with her 9th goal of the season. A headed goal from Ellie Ashford seeing the visitors leading 2-1. 16-year-old Faye Lawrence making her Southend debut playing well a superb strike seeing her mark the occasion with a goal Southend 3-1 in front dominant in the 2nd half Kate Wiseman scoring to see the Premier Division side safely through the the First Round and a tricky away tie to Division One leaders Corringham Cosmos.

The details of the full 1st Round draw listed below ties scheduled to be played Sunday 9th February:-

Silver End United Ladies v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development

Frontiers Ladies v Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves

Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves v Collier Row Tigers

Corringham Cosmos Women v Southend United Ladies

Hutton Ladies Reserves v Tigers Ladies

Chelmsford City Ladies v Chigwell Ladies

Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies v Runwell Sports Ladies

Rayleigh Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies Development

Essex Women’s Division One

A full programme of fixtures in Essex Women’s Division One at the weekend. Top versus bottom as Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves travelled to play leaders Corringham Cosmos. Just 2 points dropped so far this season Corringham have led from day one. Rachel Fleming opening the scoring for the hosts putting Corringham 1-0 up in the 17th minute a 2nd goal coming courtesy of Rebecca Corcoran 5 minutes before the break. Leading 2-0 at half-time. Top scorer Michelle Sumpter getting in on the goals 2nd half making it 3-0 on the hour would go on to complete a hat-trick to put her on 20 goals for the season. Corcoran adding her 2nd of the game to see the match won 6-0 in the 83rd minute.

Runwell Sports Ladies the nearest challengers 4 point back in 2nd spot. Made it three successive wins on Sunday in Division One clinching the 3 points at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. A goal for Karen Whitmarsh along with an 8th of the campaign for Aaryanna Simonelli enough to secure the win 2-1 the final score. Emma Farrow on target with the goal for Leigh Ramblers.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development move 3 points clear in 3rd spot in Division One showing good form themselves like Runwell extending their winning run to 3 matches this weekend away to Tigers Ladies whom they beat in the reverse fixture their final game of 2019. Bowers & Pitsea going ahead inside the opening 10 minutes pressure in attack leading to an own goal being scored. Tigers coming back to level midway through the first half before another unfortunate own goal saw Bowers & Pitsea leading 2-1 at half-time. The visitors extending their lead in the 2nd half Kelsey Young with the through ball to see Ronni Harrison net her first goal for the Development side. Katie Lee scoring a brace to see the game won 5-1, Sophie Thomas setting her up for her first, the 2nd a 25 yard screamer.

A good run of results towards the end of 2019 seeing Chigwell Ladies climbing the Division One table, back to back defeats seeing that run stall, well placed to push on into the top 4 got back to winning ways at home to Hutton Ladies Reserves this Sunday. Leah Mills scoring for the 7th time this season their was a goal on her debut too for Joanne Nour Ngabirano.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Thorpe United Ladies winning form in the league shows no sign of fading made out 10 wins from 10 at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One starting 2020 where they left off the old year. A 3-1 away win against nearest rivals Sprowston Ladies opening up a 9 point lead at the top of the table. Were away this Sunday too making another short trip to Sprowston this time taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Thorpe’s captain Rebekah Lake a constant threat to opposition defences scoring plenty of goals this season eased past 30 on Sunday netting another brace to put her on 31 from 11 played. A new name on the scoresheet this weekend too as Thorpe ran out 3-0 winners, Melissa Belsey scoring her first goal for Thorpe against her former club.

Sprowston Ladies themselves bounced back from defeat to Thorpe last weekend moving back up to 2nd in the Division One table over Bungay Town Ladies on goal difference collecting the 3 points away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. The sides drawing 0-0 at the break a brace for Camilla Morgan her first goals for Sprowston in her 5th appearance and a 7th of the season for Ellie Hall securing the win by 3 goals to 1 in the 2nd period. Rebecca Carver scoring the goal for Wymondham.

Long Stratton Women where at home to Fakenham Town Ladies at the weekend. A close game between the newly promoted sides the game settled by a single goal at the finish. Samantha Walker wearing the captains armband for Long Stratton hitting her 9th goal of the season to win her side the 3 points. Long Stratton in 6th closing the gap to 5th placed Fakenham to a point.

Another clash between two of the promoted sides saw Thetford Town Ladies at home taking on Taverham United Ladies, both sides struggling for points in Division One. Thetford 2nd bottom going into the game finding a bit of form towards the end of 2019 to collect their first points with a win and a draw. Taverham one place above them with 2 wins from the 10 matches played so far. A close game between the pair a single goal in it in the finish, Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham the visitors though were to leave empty handed as Thetford clinched their 2nd win of the season 2-1 to climb above Taverham into 9th position. Melissa Boulton and Dayna Howard with her first Thetford goal winning the points.

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

One outstanding tie left to be played in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, a tough test for Division Two side as they hosted Division One high flyers Tavern Ladies. The game played at Easton College on 3G. Tavern are scoring plenty of goals this season and soon got the ball rolling strong to lead 6-0 at half-time, matching that scoreline 2nd half to win the tie 12-0 to reach the quarter finals. Will fancy their chances of making a 2nd successive League Cup final appearance having down so as a Division Two side last season. Katie Hart-Copsey closing the gap to joint top scorers Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean on target to score 5 goals in the game taking her to 11 for the season. A brace for Griffith puts her on 13 along with Kean getting a goal. A goal each too for Sophie Fuller & Meganne Smith with Kelly Gray and Natalie Wright both scoring their first goals for Tavern.

The quarter finals of the League Cup to be played Sun 26th January the draw as follows:-

Sprowston Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Waveney Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

Thorpe United Ladies Reserves v Long Stratton Women

Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Three games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this weekend. Stalham Town Ladies maintaining their 7 point lead at the top of the table winning their 8th game of the season at home to Horsford Women on Sunday. A goal in each half for top scorer Amber Mayhew securing the 3 points. Mayhew moving onto 16 goals for the season.

Beccles Town Ladies in hot pursuit and they were relentless in front of goal on Sunday as they rattled 15 goals past bottom side Bulldogs Ladies matching Stalham’s eye watering scoreline registered back at the start of December. The bare 11 available for Bulldogs always going to be a hard ask against Beccles young guns confidence high within the squad. Francesca Catchpole out for a lengthy spell suffering a nasty injury making up for lost time firing 5 more goals into the back of the net taking her tally to 9 goals from 3 appearances. Lola Barbour-King currently Beccles top scoring a hat-trick moves to 14 from 7 games. Chloe Pearce usually keeping goal netting a brace to add to the goal she has already got this season. A brace too for Francesca Heaney her first goals of the season. There was a goal each too for captain Megan Vincent, Elisha Bower and Bethan Owen.

Waveney Ladies are up to 3rd spot in the Division Two table scoring a dramatic late winner to take home all three points away to North Walsham Angels Ladies. Rhiannon Holt scoring her 8th & 9th goals of the season to fire North Walsham into a 2-0 lead. Waveney fought back well Maddie Cook heading home her first goal of the season to pull it back to 2-1 on the hour. 2-1 in remained to the hosts heading into the final 3 minutes of the game a free-kick awarded to Waveney Cook sending it in to equalise late on more drama a nervous end to the game 10 seconds left on the clock Chloe Dobson popping up with the winner for Waveney.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A packed weekend of action across both divisions in Cambridgeshire on Sunday the title race in both league continues to intrigue. A full programme of fixtures in both the Premiership and Championship. Premiership leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves remain 2 points clear of 2nd placed Leverington Sports Ladies as they clinched a 7th win of the season at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at the weekend. On target for 3 goals in each half to win the match 6-1. Frances Peeling opening scoring for Peterborough in the 16th minute with her first goal of the season. Eleanor Spendlow also scoring along with Eve Lomasney on her first start for the club. Spendelow going on to claim a 2nd goal on the hour with Elle Gavaghan and Hannah Flatters also scoring. Marie Stubbing with the goal for Fulbourn.

Leverington Sports Ladies keeping the pressure on the league leaders at the top of the Premiership 2 points the gap after the won at home this weekend against Ketton Ladies with they shared a fierce title battle with in the Championship North last season, Ketton finishing champions the title going to the wire, (should note Leverington were Wisbech back then) still the same side though under a new name and the pair contested another very evenly contested match on Sunday, Leverington scoring two late goals to win the game 2-0. Shushannah Feast with her first goal of the season and top scorer Sophie Swinden with her 19th.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies made a fantastic start to the season following promotion to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, the early pace setters winning their opening five games have since stalled going on to lose their next 3 in all competition’s a first league defeat followed by cup losses. have lost ground on the leading pair but despite that remain well positioned in 3rd spot as they travelled to play Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Coming out on top in a one sided game to win 2-0. Sian Cottrell with both the visitors goals her first of the season. Haverhill just 4 points behind leaders Peterborough with 3 games in hand.

Fifth versus fourth at the weekend as ICA Sports Ladies hosted March Town Ladies at the weekend. A good start to the season for ICA Sports bringing in several youth players to bolster the squad beating March in the reverse fixture early on in the season. March regrouping going on a good run to climb the Premiership table up to 4th spot both well placed to put pressure on the leaders. ICA Sports doing the double over March running out 6-2 victors to climb above them into 4th themselves. Annie Posnett netting her hat-trick to take her to 7 for ICA Sports from 5 appearances. Hannah Murphy scoring a brace with a goal too for Lauren Mapleston. Emma Searle and Louise Barbour on target for the March goals.

Just 5 league matches on the board for Netherton United Ladies so far this season a mixed back so far with 2 wins 2 losses and a draw games in hand could yet push their way into the top half of the table. Reaching the last 4 of the League Cup last Sunday beating ICA Sports Ladies, were away to Cambridge City Ladies A this weekend back in league action a strong performance to see Netherton collect all 3 points. Katie Barber on target to score the opening goal after just 2 minutes play. Yasmin Green doubling the lead on 10 minutes scoring a 2nd midway through the half to see Netherton 3-0 up at the break. Green going on to complete her hat-trick 5 minutes into the 2nd half taking her days haul to 4 with another strike with 10 minutes left to play giving her 13 for the season Netherton recording a 5-0 win.

Yasmin Green scoring 4 goals for Netherton United Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Gary Reed)

An early kick-off Sunday morning for Cambridge University Women hosting St Ives Town Ladies Development. Just 2 wins so far this season for Cambridge University with St Ives in mid-table winning 5 in a row in all competition before being narrowly beaten away to the league leaders 3-2 last weekend. Suffered another frustrating 3-2 defeat this weekend to see Cambridge University win all 3 points for the 3rd time this season pulling away from the bottom 2. All three of their goals coming in the 2nd half with Lidiya Mykhaylechko scoring a brace. Amanda Wainwright netting in the 85th minute. Tash Applegate and Maisie Buckle with her first St Ives goal scoring for the visitors.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship

Cambridge Rangers Women remain 7 points clear at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship as they extend their 100% into 2020 having to wait a week after last weekend game against Hungate Rovers Ladies was postponed. Away to Isleham United Ladies this Sunday. Claire Kyndt scoring a hat-trick to take her Cambridge Rangers goals tally to 8 for the season. Top scorer Daniella Lewis moving onto 16 with another goal. Paris-Rose Brixey also getting a goal, with Barbara Williams finding the back of the net for her first goal in a 6-1 victory. 11 on the trot now for Cambridge Rangers. Rachael Turner with the Isleham goal.

A few changes at Mildenhall Town Ladies as they look to build on an impressive debut season up to 2nd in the Championship table. Luke Worley with plenty of experience in the women’s game coming in to assist the coaching team. New player joining two adding good experience to the squad. A long period without a game stretching back to the 8th of December, Mildenhall racked up the goals in a high scoring win away to Cambourne United Women on Sunday the hosts fielding the bare 11. Top scorer Katie Hayes netting a first half hat-trick to take her to 15 for the season. Lydia Vance repeating t feat in the 2nd period. Mildenhall holding a 4-2 advantage at half-time going on to rack up a 12-3 win. Annalise Brown adding to Hayes hat-trick with a goal in first half injury time. Megan Hobson and Eloise Gookley both celebrating a 2nd half brace with Rachel Pearce newly joined scoring hr first goal for the club. Emily Arnold and Sharon Pinner with her first Cambourne goal to first half scorers. Brooke McTaggart getting her first goal in the 2nd half.

Pinchbeck United Ladies matching Cambridge Rangers 100% winning record so far this season back in 3rd 3 matches in hand the gap 9 points were away to bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies this weekend. Libby Friel giving Pinchbeck an early lead opening the scoring inside a minute. Swavesey Spartans coming back to level with quarter an hour played. Friel with her 6th goal of the season restoring the visitors lead midway through the first half to see them 2-1 up at the break. That the scoreline going into the final fifteen minutes before top scorer Courtney Walker scored her 12th goal of the season to make thing’s more comfortable. Swavesey having other idea though as they came back to make it 3-2 5 minutes later. Pinchbeck ensuring their winning run continued scoring two late goals, China Smith making it 4-2 before Walker netting her 2nd of the match in the 90th minute.

Eaton Socon Ladies stay level on points with Pinchbeck in 4th spot as they won for the 8th time this season at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies on Sunday bouncing back from last weekends 4-0 defeat to Newmarket. Hit 4 into the back of the net themselves this weekend to collect the 3 points. Top scorer Hannah Hutchinson moving onto 8 for the season scoring twice. Goals too for Emily Wiseman and Samantha Webster.

Last weekends 4-0 win at home to Eaton Socon extending Newmarket Town Women Development’s unbeaten run to 6 matches winning 5 taking them up the Championship table into 5th. Were looking to extend that run to 7 matches as they hosted Deeping United Ladies who in contrast have lost their last 5 league games after making a promising start to the campaign. Ella Jons and Eleanor Barnes-Brown scoring for the visitors in the first half it was Newmarket who held the lead at half-time going in 4-2 up. The hosts going on to add a further 3 goals in the 2nd half to run out 7-2 winners. Laura Brame making her first start for the Development side scoring a hat-trick her first goals since joining Newmarket. A brace for Leah Harper taking her to 9 for the season. Evie Jakes on the scoresheet along with top scorer Talia Irvine collecting her 11th goal of the season.

Park Ladies climb above Cambourne United Women to move into the Championship’s top 6 as they made it 4 straight wins doing the double over Cardea Ladies in the league at the weekend. A 5-3 win for Park away to Cardea last weekend to get 2020 off to a flyer were the hosts this Sunday. The pair sharing the goals once again, Cardea with 2 goals, Park in great form putting 4 past their opponents to keep their winning run going. Demi Newman, Sophie Fenner and Sheree Martin all scoring their 3rd goal of the season with a first goal for Teagan Pulman.

Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development starting 2020 with a very welcome first win of the season beating Burwell Tigers Ladies 8-2 away from home last weekend. Meeting in the reverse fixture this Sunday it wasn’t to be for Haverhill as Burwell put in a much better performance to win for the first time in the league since the recording back to back wins at the start of the season. The final score 4-0 to the visitors.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

A busy fixture lists across the Beds and Herts Women’s Football League with games in all three divisions and 8 cup ties from the Chris Renshaw Cup played this Sunday. Plenty of goals scored and some big games.

None more so than the top of the table clash in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One between 1st and 2nd. Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies 3 points clear at the top hosting 2nd placed St Albans Ladies who have a game in hand. Hemel Hempstead beating St Albans 3-1 in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. A cracking game of football by all accounts both sides on target for 2 goals in the first half Kayla Johnson netting a brace for St Albans giving her 8 for the season. Kayleigh Baker with her 4th of the season and a 10th goal of the campaign the Hemel Hempstead scorers all square at the break neither side able to breach the others defence for a winning goal 2nd half the points shared.

The other game in Division One at the weekend saw Garston Ladies 1st team in 5th spot close the gap to 4th placed Hartham United Ladies to just a point as they won away from home to 2nd bottom Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday. Garston edging the result 2-1 to take the 3 points home. Ruby Jager on the scoresheet for Garston was also given a red card the visitors ending with 10.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

The title race in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two remains as tight as ever the weekend starting with a 3 way tie at the top with Langford Ladies, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses and AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies all on 18 points, AFC Dunstable Women Blues just two points behind in fourth after drawing with Sherrardswood Ladies last time out. Another top of the table clash saw them at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses this Sunday the visitors ending Dunstable’s 100% winning start at the end of 2019 beating them 5-2 in the reverse fixture. A close game Dunstable keen to keep Woburn & Wavendon from scoring, taking a chance late in the 1st half to lead the game at the break 1-0 Holly Wilks putting away her 6th goal of the season. Chances to extend the lead coming in the 2nd half Dunstable eventually doubling their lead mid-way through the 2nd half Nicole Cameron on target for her 4th of the season, kept a clean sheet to win the match 2-0 and as a result go top of the table themselves by a point between the top 4 and 5th and 6th placed Garston Ladies Vintage Purples and Sherrardswood Ladies are far from out of it.

At the other end of the Division Two table a tough first half of the season for both Bedford Ladies Development and Evergreen Ladies. The latter making the journey to take on Bedford this weekend the hosts looking to build on last weekends 0-1 win away to bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies just their 2nd of the season the first coming against Wheathampstead back at the start of October. Just the one win too so far for Evergreen Ladies but the start of a new era, new management bringing a positive outlook. Evergreen falling behind early in the match Bedford doubling their lead scoring straight from a corner to go into half-time 2-0 up. Hannah Holden pulling Evergreen back to 2-1 early in the 2nd half. Bedford strong in the box going on to score a 3rd goal adding a further two, Ellie Smith with her first goal of the season scoring for Evergreen late on. Bedford making it back to back wins to start 2020, Remi Bains and Charlotte Demmon both scoring a brace apiece with Alicja Olszanka also on target to score her 9th goal of the season.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

Also a top of the table meeting in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday with leader Herts Vipers taking their 100% winning start to 3rd placed Biggleswade United Ladies themselves just losing the one match in the league this season that a narrow 3-2 defeat to Herts Vipers early in the season. Just 3 points in at at the start of play. Herts Vipers opening the scoring on 30 minutes Kelsey Millen lobbing the keeper from outside the box to put the visitors 1-0 up, that the advantage at half-time. Millen scoring her 2nd and 10th of the season early in the 2nd half after the initial shot was parried by the goalkeeper Millen there to send over the line. Millen turning provider for Herts Vipers 3rd goal crossing the ball in put away in the 64th minute by top scorer Nicole Jancey for her 36th goal of the season. Helen Coster with her first goal for Biggleswade pulling it back to 3-1 with 15 minutes to play. Herts Vipers making it 9 wins from 9 to go 3 points clear of Harvesters Ladies at the top of the table.

The Herts Vipers squad lining up before Sunday’s 3-1 win away to Biggleswade United Ladies (photo credit Herts Vipers)

Evergreen Eagles were celebrating their first win of the season in Division Three from open play last Sunday getting 2020 off to a positive start. This weekend they were away to bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies who were the only side in the league without a point on the board losing all 7 league games played so far. The pair playing a high scoring game Buntingford getting themselves into a 5-0 lead. Evergreen Eagles mounting a terrific fight back Samantha Takis scoring in the 50th minute would go on to complete her hat-trick in the final 10 minutes of the match Christine Brewer also scoring for the visitors Buntingford survived the sustained pressure going on to win the match 6-4 and celebrate their first win of the season.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

Plenty of cup action to report on too this weekend with 8 ties from the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Alot of goals scored and some big wins too. The biggest by far Northwood Ladies home win against Whetstone Wanderers Ladies. A huge gap between the sides with Northwood fighting at the top of Division One, Whetstone Wanderers in contrast struggling for results at the bottom of Division Three. Despite having only 10 players available due to illness and injury Northwood proved too strong and opponent, Whetstone kept going but Northwood found the back of the net at regular intervals to win the game 17-0. 4 goals each for Emma Steele and Scarlett Keightley. Both Joanne Horwood and Samantha May netting a hat-trick there were also goals for Leanne Jones and Emma Marshall.

Been a tough season so far for Hitchin Belles since winning promotion to Beds & Herts Division One collecting just the 1 point from 10 games played. The Chris Renshaw providing a break from their league struggle, were taking Division Three side Flitwick Eagles Ladies on at home this weekend in the 2nd round of the competition. A much welcome victory for Hitchin Belles the final result 7-1 to see them progress in the cup. Millie Fraser scoring a hat-trick. Emily Field on target for her 5th goal of the season. Their were first goals of the season to for Charlotte Peters and a brace for Kayleigh Grey. Brittany Holdsworth with a late consolation for Flitwick.

Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies were drawn away to Division Three pace setters Harvesters Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup a potentially tricky tie. Houghton Athletic coming through safely to advance into the next round winning the match 5-1 despite having Shakeela Hussain sent off. Louise Spendelow on target to score a brace their were goals to for Emily Wilson and Ciara Craig along with Eireann O’Donoghue scoring her first goal of the season. Louise Avery with the goal for Harvesters.

One Division One side knocked out of the competition though are Royston Town Women Development as they lost in the final minute away to Division Two side Sherrardswood Ladies. The sides level at 2-2 heading into the closing minutes, an OG and a 55th minute goal from Abby Cardell for Sherrardswood. Eve Chappell and Sabrina Purser scoring for Royston and 89th minute goal for Rhianna Rose saw Sherrardswood clinch the game at the death 3-2.

Leading Beds & Herts Women’s Division Tow going into the weekend Langford Ladies were at home to fellow league side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup. Goals from Leah Holmes and Ayesha Brown enough to see of the club bottom of the league 2-0.

Also in the mix for the Division Two title are AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. Were at home to Division Three side Stotfold Juniors Ladies in the 2nd round of the competition on Sunday. The host safely through to the next round winning the game by 4 goal to nil. Freya Green scoring her first goal for the club. Natasha Wing also on the scoresheet along with Helen Spalding with a brace.

Emma Trill on target for five goals as Garston Ladies Vintage Purple won comfortably at home to Division Three side Bedwell Rangers Ladies in their first match of 2020 to advance in The Chris Renshaw Cup. Yasmin Sabri opening the scoring for Garston. Trill leading the attack making it 2-0 overnight rain making playing conditions tricky Bedwell pulling it back to 2-1 a great strike from Jessica Sullivan. Garston getting themselves into a 3-1 lead Lucy Zecchin slotting the ball under the keeper. Trill with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper from outside the box to see the hosts 4-1 up at the break. Garston starting the 2nd half where they left of the first Trill going on to complete her hat-trick. A 4th goal for Trill turned in at the near post, then put through on goal to score her 5th of the game. 7-1 up Garston adding an 8th from a corner Samantha Roads rising highest to head home celebrating a goal on her birthday. Bedwell scoring an absolute screamer with the final kick of the game to make it 8-2 Georgia Miller the scorer.

Hitching Town Ladies Reserves the only Division Three side left in the competition as they took their recent good form into the cup knocking out Division Two side Watton Ladies in the 2nd round of The Chris Renshaw Cup on Sunday. 5 straight wins going into the game and despite not being in action for 5 weeks that run continued. April Spang enjoying herself in attack for Hitchin scoring an early brace adding a hat-trick in the 2nd half. Her 5 goals taking her to 20 for the season a goal too for Ellie Coyler as Hitchin Town Reserves ran out 6-3 winners. Elizabeth Dowton, Gemma Bickell and Sian Owens scoring for Watton.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

ERWFL Cup

A break from the league this weekend in the ERWFL (well almost) with the knock-out stages commencing for both the League Cup and Plate competitions. The first half of the season seeing the 16 Division One sides North and South competing in a group format, 4 sides playing each other once with the group winners progressing the the League Cup joining the 12 Premier Division sides the rest going on to compete for the League Plate.

Newmarket Town Women, Millwall Lionesses, Needham Market Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies to 4 Division One sides to win their groups all draw against higher league opposition in the League Cup. All 4 involved in a close game. 8 ties in the 1st Round just 7 played at the weekend. The game between Wymondham Town Ladies and Harlow Town Ladies cancelled after Harlow’s parked mini-bus was hit by a lorry at the services on their way up to Norfolk. Everyone okay, a new date for the tie to be announced.

Wroxham Women were drawn away to ERWFL newcomers Needham Market Women the in first round of the League Cup on Sunday. Needham Market making a good start to the game early chances, it was Wroxham though who opening the scoring captain Anna Larkins getting forwards from full back on the 14th minute her cross come shot finding the back of the net. Needham Market coming back to level the scores 6 minutes later, Amber Sparkes bringing the ball on from halfway shooting from 20 yards out making it 1-1. Needham Market coming close to leading before the break it was level at half-time. Larkins on target to score her 2nd of the match restring Wroxham’s lead before the hour. The visitors going further ahead in the 67th minute with Lauren Bullard scoring the goal. A 2nd for Bullard coming with 10 minutes left heading in a corner to put Wroxham 4-1 up. Alot of stoppage time to be played with both sides seeing a player needing lengthy treatment for injury. Needham Market having chances all game mounting a late fightback 3 minutes into injury time Abbie Wilkinson scoring her first first team goal to get it back to 4-2 turned provider 3 minutes later setting up Annie Northwood to pull it back to 4-3. Needham Market finishing strong time running out however Wroxham progressing into the quarter finals.

Luton Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies meeting for the 3rd time this season having been drawn out to play each other in the 1st Round of the League Cup having met twice in the league and in the Women’s FA Cup this season. Both matches at Bowers & Pitsea ending in 3-0 wins for Luton. This Sunday’s League Cup tie Luton’s home ground The Branche. Funmi Babalola putting Luton in front on 11 minutes scoring her 8th goal of the season. Bowers & Pitsea breaching Luton’s defence for the first time this season coming back to level with 20 minutes on the clock Yasmin Cowley 7th goal of the season. The pair drawing 1-1 at half-time. Luton getting back in front with 20 minutes left on the clock Kelsey Gibson putting Jess McKay through on goal to score her 10th goal of the season. The win assured in the final minute McKay with a superb finish to score her 2nd of the match and see the tie won 3-1.

A 3-1 win at home too for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies at the weekend in the first round of the League Cup as they took on St Ives Town Ladies. Peterborough 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division scoring plenty of goals this season and in every game so far this season. Leah Cudone with a penalty on target for her 16th goal of the season , Evie Driscoll-King and Amy Magnus with her 1st goal for the club in only her 2nd appearance for the 2nd scoring the winning goals. Georgia Stancombe netting the goal for St Ives Town.

Penalty box action from Peterborough Northern Star v St Ives Town (photo credit James Cox)

Royston Town Women enjoying a good season in the Premier Division hosting another of the Group stage winners, King’s Lynn Town Ladies riding high in Division One North 2nd unbeaten in open play since mid-October winning 6 straight games in the league along with all three group matches. Good work with the ball at her feet from Georgia Gannaway leading to an own goal to see Royston take the lead. A free-kick struck in from distance seeing King’s Lynn bring the scores level 1-1 the score at the half-time interval. Royston captain Amy Cooper scoring her first goal of the season bundling the ball in from a corner to restore Royston’s lead, a fantastic break away goal from King’s Lynn bringing the Norfolk side back level for the 2nd time in the tie. The winner coming with 5 minutes left on the clock Emma Slater blasting in the goal her 8th of the season to see Royston into the quarter finals 3-2.

Newmarket Town Women winning Group A were at home to Premier Division side Bedford Ladies in the 1st Round of the League Cup this Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield heading Newmarket into the lead, Bedford though coming back quickly to equalise and then take the lead themselves through to strikes from range by Jasmine Ajayi and Natasha Fensome. 2-1 the lead at half-time both sides finishing the game with 10 players with both Newmarket’s Katie Webb and Bedford’s Ashley Emerton sent off. N further goals added in the 2nd period Bedford into the quarter finals.

Three of the Division One sides suffering narrow defeats in their clashes with higher league opposition, Millwall Lionesses the side to cause the upset and reach the last eight of the League Cup were drawn away to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women, working hard to improve every game Dunstable leaving the pitch frustrated having created a host of chances but failing to score Millwall Lionesses restricted in attacking opportunities scored from a free-kick to clinch a narrow 1-0 victory.

The final League Cup tie to report on saw Colney Heath Ladies travelling to play Haringey Borough Women in the 1st Round. The club 2nd bottom in the table coming close to getting the opening goal on 10 minutes hitting Colney Heath on the counter 1 on 1 with the keeper Amy Butler with a superb save to deny Haringey. The hosts keeper with a great save to deny Samaira Khan up the the end 2 minutes later. Khan leading the goal scoring charts for Colney Heath heading in her 22nd goal of the season 3 minutes later to put the visitors into the lead. A hand ball inside the box seeing Colney Heath awarded a penalty Lucy Hancock stepping up to score to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes played. Colney Heath starting to dominate going on to add a 3rd goal before the half hour Khan crossing for Adrienne Milton to score. Haringey getting it back to 3-1 scoring on the follow-up after the initial shot was saved. Sheree Oliver nodding in Charlene Moreton’s cross late in the half to see Colney Heath 4-1 up. Not many chances created 2nd half Colney Heath comfortable though safely through to the last 8.

ERWFL Plate

Three ties played in the 1st Round of this season’s League Plate competition won by Newmarket Town Women last season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies in good form going into the weekend 2nd in Division One South at home to fellow league side Lawford Ladies who have been struggling for numbers during the season. The visitors once again short of a full side in the 1st Round of the Plate Leigh Ramblers young side full of confidence, adding Georgia Holdaway to their squad this season. On target for a hat-trick at the weekend taking her tally to 8 for the season. There was also a brace each for Rhiana Castle and Megan Downes with her first goals of the season. Connie Mashford also getting her name on the scoresheet in a comfortable 8-0 win.

High scores in the other two 1st Round ties too at the weekend. Wodson Park Ladies struggling for form in the league this season with just one win hosting AFC Sudbury Ladies the Suffolk side finding some form after a tough start themselves. The visitors scoring twice, Wodson Park bringing in new faces to add to their squad progressing to the quarter finals of the League Plate with a 4-2 victory. A 5th goal of the season for Chloe-Marie Clay plus a hat-trick for Kristina O’Connell her first goals for Wodson Park making just her 2nd appearance.

East Bergholt United Ladies completing a trio of home wins in the 1st Round of the League Plate at the weekend beating Division One South side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies 6-2 to reach the quarter finals following a solid start to life in the regional leagues having joined the ERWFL this season. Cara Savage with a brace scoring her first goals of the season for East Bergholt. A first goal of the season too for Tiffany Reeves along with brace for Stacey Teager.

ERWFL Division One South

Just the one league fixture played at the weekend in Division One South and a lack of games through postponements seeing Hutton Ladies knocked off top spot down to 3rd behind Millwall Lionesses and fellow Essex side Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Were playing their first game since the 1st of December a 100% record from 5 games played were at home to Stevenage FC Women Development who had suffered similarly having not played since the 8th December. Keen to get going both sides with plenty of goals in them shared 8 between them both scoring 4 to see the points shared Stevenage scoring 4 past a Hutton side that had only concede 3 in their previous 5 matches. Hutton losing their 100% record still unbeaten the top scorers in the league go back to 2nd 3 points behind Millwall with a game in hand. Kate Lowen scoring a brace with captain Abigail Fry and top scorer Vicky Kinsman both getting a goal each for Hutton. Nicole Emmings netting a hat-trick for Stevenage with Sofia Carpenter also on the scoresheet.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 12/01/20

The Round-Up

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Watford Ladies ending 2019 top of the Southern Premier Division 3 points clear of nearest challengers Crawley Wasps Ladies who like Watford had suffered just one defeat in the first half of the season following promotion as South East Division One Champions the season before and with Watford’s home game against Portsmouth FC Women falling foul to the weather, it presented a opportunity for Crawley Wasps to move back level on points at the top of the table. A tough test though with an away trip to another side making a strong start to the season Plymouth Argyle Ladies who ended 2019 with back to back defeats in the league after a long winning streak of 7 matches following an opening day loss away to Crawley Wasps.

Plymouth hit by injuries, Crawley Wasps starting well getting on the front foot few chances created the score 0-0 at half-time the 2nd half looked to be heading the same way both sides defending well the game closing in on the final 10 minutes, Plymouth seeing Katie Middleton Sin Binned for decent the hosts down to 10, Crawley Wasps attacking the ball on the right played central picked up by Rachel Palmer free 25 yards out to line up a great left foot strike to put Crawley Wasps into the lead and see the 3 points won.

Plymouth off the back of a 3rd successive defeat drop down to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table overhauled by Cardiff City Ladies the Welsh side making the trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham Ladies who beat Cardiff 1-0 in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season. A competitive start by both sides Gillingham suffering a blow midway through the 1st half as they were reduced to 10 Bethany Powell sent off. Cardiff taking the lead moment later Cori Williams heading in to make it 1-0, a 2nd goal coming for the visitors in first half stoppage time Williams on target to make it 2-0. Cardiff pressing for a 3rd goal went further ahead early in the 2nd half Carrie sending the ball home to make it 3-0 on 54 minutes. A quickfire double with 10 minutes to go sealing a 5-0 victory for Cardiff, Nadia Lawrence with a goal to make it 4, Williams wrapping up her hat-trick to take her goals tally for the season to 9.

Cardiff now a point ahead of Plymouth it is incredibly tight in the top half of the Southern Premier Division table with just 2 points between the sides making up the top 6. Oxford United Women joining Plymouth on 21 points in 5th spot with an away win against Keynsham Town Ladies on Sunday. Oxford opening the scoring inside the opening 15 minutes Georgia Clifford’s making a run down the left whipping in a cross for Cheryl Williams to turn in at the far post. Keynsham battling their way back into the game Oxford creating good chances Keynsham equalising on the stroke of half-time a curling shot finding it’s way into the top corner. Oxford straight back into the lead at the start of the 2nd half another left wing cross Stephaney Bent to tap home. Oxford pressuring the home defence in search of more goals a 3rd coming on the hour, Brogan Moore pouncing in a shot fumbled by the goalkeeper putting the visitors 3-1 ahead Williams striking from the edge of the box a minute later to net her 10th goal of the season. Oxford dominating adding a 5th goal with 10 minutes left Georgia Clifford scoring her first league goal for the club. A 6th coming moments later with Carly Johns scoring to keep pace match Williams tally of 10 for the season.

Yeovil Town Women making up the top 6 with a big home win at the weekend over struggling Hounslow Women 2 points behind 3rd placed Cardiff. A battling performance to earn a point away to bottom side Chichester City Ladies last weekend the game finishing goalless. Hounslow with just 3 points haven’t won this season 2nd bottom fighting to stay in the league faced a Yeovil side with plenty of goals in them would finish the afternoon as the Southern Premier Division’s leading goalscorers. Early pressure from the hosts Hounslow’s goalkeeper making a couple of saves. Sarah Wiltshire putting Yeovil into the the lead getting onto the end of a ball put in by Charlotte Buxton with 20 minutes played. Meesha Dudley-Jones adding a 2nd goal for Yeovil just a 2 minute later put through to score by Katie Jones. Wiltshire scoring her 2nd of the match 5 minutes later to see Yeovil in control of the match a penalty stroked home by Annie Heatherson in first half stoppage time seeing Yeovil leading 4-0 at the break. Wiltshire on target for her 17th goal of the season completing her hat-trick 5 minutes into the start of the 2nd half. Ellie Strippel making her debut for Yeovil marking the occasion with a goal with the game entering the final 15 minutes. Wiltshire making it 7-0 with her 4th strike of the match in the 81st minute the final score 8-0 to Yeovil with Megan Wood scoring with 3 minutes left to play.

4 goals at the weekend for Yeovil Town Women’s, Sarah Wiltshire

Despite making a bright start to the season Milton Keynes Dons Women winning their opening two matches a poor run since has yielded just one more point. 6 straight losses to end 2019 despite some battling performances particularly in the cup competitions. Bringing in a host of new players were looking to get 2020 off to a positive start as they hosted bottom side Chichester City Ladies at the Stadium MK on Sunday. Milton Keynes creating opportunities early on, Chichester still in search of their first win of the season beginning 2020 with a goalless draw with fellow strugglers Hounslow Women last weekend with a couple of chances of their own over the bar. Jade Bell’s cross/shot from the wing finding the back of the net to put Milton Keynes 1-0 midway through the first half. Jamie Rowlands with a with a great save to deny Milton Keynes a 2nd goal late in the first half. Leading 1-0 going into the 2nd half. Around the hour Milton Keynes doubling their lead combination play between Louise Naylor and Kim Farrow seeing Jessica Driscoll score from the resulting cross. Emma Kirby off her line to make a fantastic save to in the final 5 minutes for Milton Keynes ensuring they kept a clean sheet and began the year with a much welcome 3 points.

FAWNL South East Division One

Ipswich Town Women ending 2019 4 points clear at the top of FAWNL South East Division One unbeaten in their first 9 matches played dropping just 2 points those coming back on the opening day a home draw 1-1 with AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Reaching the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup beating Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women last weekend were back in league action this Sunday with a top of the table clash against… AFC Wimbledon Ladies. One of a host of sides making a strong start to the season very tight in the top half of the South East Division One table, Wimbledon like Ipswich undefeated long into the first half the season suffering a 1-0 defeat to Actonians Ladies in their final game of 2019 to end that record. Up to 2nd in the table 4 points the gap to Ipswich. The visitors getting off to a fantastic start with Elouise King racing onto captain Amanda Crump’s fantastic forwards pass to turn inside outside the box and send a shot in off the bar to make it 1-0 inside 3 minutes. Wimbledon goalkeeper Charlotte Ferguson suffering a head injury bandaged up the game resuming making some vital saves to keep the scoreline at 1-0 with Ipswich pressing. Ipswich ending the first half with 10 Lucy Egan in the Sin Bin for descent the disadvantage continuing into the 2nd half.

Ipswich back up to full strength with was Wimbledon’s turn to go down to 10 however Stephanie Mann with shown a straight red the hosts a goal and player down with a mountain to climb 2nd half. Ipswich pushing forwards Ferguson on hand making several vital saves to deny to frustrate Ipswich. The game turned on it’s head in the closing minutes Wimbledon pressing just one goal in it new signing Lily Stevens sending a thunderous free-kick onto the crossbar. Five minutes left to play Wimbledon awarded another set-piece Steven’s with another well taken strike Ipswich goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles with a tremendous save getting a glove up to the ball fell to a Wimbledon players crossed back into the six yard box Georgia Heasman launching it into the back of the net. 1-1 the game deep into stoppage time Steven’s over another free-kick 40 yards out struck well again Runnacles unable to get to it the ball over her dropping into the back of the net to see Wimbledon snatch a 2-1 win at the death and end Ipswich’s unbeaten record closing the gap to the leaders to just a point.

That result seeing thing’s really tighten up in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One table, just 6 points separating the top six now positive results at the weekend for 3 more of those sides seeing 3rd placed Billericay Town Ladies who were in FA Cup action pushed down to 6th spot in the table, the Essex side with 2 games in hand on the leaders. Leyton Orient WFC now within 3 points of Ipswich themselves as they won the 3 points away to 2nd bottom Cambridge City Ladies at Ely City FC on Sunday. Early chances for Leyton Orient, Cambridge goalkeeper Dominika Szary wit a couple of saves, Leyton Orient’s top scorer Otesha Charles getting hold of the ball at the top of the box making room to get a shot away low across the keeper to make it 1-0. The visitors pushing for a 2nd goal Ellie Stenning sending in a cross at the near post with half an hour played. 2-0 the lead at half-time Cambridge improving 2nd half creating opportunities without really testing the goal keeper pulled it back to 2-1 with 20 minutes left Bella Simmons heading in at the near post. Leyton Orient keeping them from scoring a 2nd to win it 2-1.

Enfield Town Ladies just a point further back from Leyton Orient in 4th spot were hosting Cambridge United WFC who had ended the year with a confidence boosting 3-0 home with over Leyton Orient. Always a tough game between themselves and Enfield. The pair contesting a goalless first half. Enfield awarded a penalty 3 minutes into the start of the 2nd period. Beth Lumsden placing the ball into the bottom corner to give the hosts the lead. Nuala McKevitt captaining Enfield doubling the advantage on the hour heading home from inside the six yard box. Sophy Stonehouse saving a penalty up the other end for Enfield to keep their clean sheet intact Tyra Mills scoring in injury time to see Enfield take the points with a 3-0 victory.

AFC Basildon Women up to 5th in the South East Division One table coming out on top in a high scoring game away to Norwich City Women at the weekend. Basildon hitting Norwich on the break to score an early goal in the match Chelsea Garrett pulling Norwich back level with a quarter played finding the top corner to make it 1-1. Basildon soon coming back to restore their lead a strike from the edge of the box to find the top corner, the hosts failing to clear the ball leading to Basildon going 3-1 ahead. Aimee Durrant seeing a great strike from distance go in off the post to get it back to 3-2 in the 35th minute. Basildon though restoring their 2 goal cushion before half-time to go into the changing rooms 4-2 up. The Essex side further extending their lead early in the 2nd half a counter attack making it 5-0 in the 50th minute. Basildon capitalising in Norwich mistakes going 6-2 up Garrett firing home to score her 2nd of the game for Norwich midway through the 2nd half. Basildon making it 7-3 with a shot from distance the game into the final 15 minutes a corner for Norwich Reeanna Cook getting a touch to put it over the line, Basildon going up the other end to score an 8th of the game and take the points home with an 8-4 win.

Women’s FA Cup

One more game to bring you and seeing as it features two more clubs from FAWNL South East Division One is worth a mention as Billericay Town Ladies and Actonians Ladies the two lowest league placed sides left in the competition met this Sunday in the 3rd Round of the Women’s FA Cup. History to be made a trip to Championship side Lewes FC Women. Postponed from last Sunday played at Aveley FC under the lights. An action packed first half Billericay’s Karissa Rodney capitalising from a corner to score at close range after a header from a corner smashed down of the crossbar in the 10th minute that goal the difference between the sides going into the break. Actonians a threat all game attacking came back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half top scorer Alessandra Barreca through on goal scoring from the tightest of angles. 1-1 with 15 minutes to play Actonians turning it around to take the lead a corner swung into the six yard box from the left headed home by Barreca to put Actonians 2-1 ahead. Billericay awarded a penalty soon after Therese Addison striking a powerful low drive into the back of the net. Extra-time looming the game deep into stoppage time Billericay winning a corner the high ball looped into the six yard box evading the keeper, the ball going in off Billericay captain Lindsey Morgan to see the game won at the death 3-2.

Lindsey Morgan celebrating after scoring the winning goal for Billericay Town Ladies in stoppage time (photo credit Nicky Hayes)