Monthly Archives: March 2022

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women

Wednesday 30th March

FAWNL South East Division One

 A midweek trip to St Neots Town FC for a game under the lights from FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC taking on Stevenage FC Women.

 A big game for both with Stevenage FC Women in the relegation zone giving themselves a fighting chance picking up vital points at the close end of the season away to 7th place Cambridge United WFC who have lost there last 3 in the league to keep them a little too close to the scrap at the bottom for comfort.

 Cambridge though know that a win changes everything, sees them comfortable in mid-table clear of what is likely a scrap at the bottom that will go all the way to the wire. Consistency has been a problem for Cambridge all season have assembled a decent squad who are more than capable on their day. Have had a few off days however that is proving a quandary, a run of 3 straight defeats taking the gloss off their season, looking well clear of the danger zone the points tally drying up whilst those below have picked up some vital wins against each other has seen the gap close to just 5 points. Have a number of players out through illness and injury including captain, Laura Baker and full back Carrie Bennett with a further 4 first team players missing. That though a great opportunity for those amongst the squad to put on a performance.

  Stevenage FC Women were looking dead and buried adrift 2nd bottom on the FAWNL South East Division One table just over 5 weeks ago 3 wins against their relegation rivals with 9 points collected from 12 has seen them push themselves back up amongst the competition moving onto 18 points taking them to within 3 points of possible safety. 3 games left to play Stevenage’s end of season for could yet pull them to safety. That good form also  seeing Stevenage regain the Hertfordshire County Cup 10 days ago.

 Both Cambridge and Stevenage suffering 4-0 home losses at the weekend against the Essex sides vying for the title, Billericay Town Women and Hashtag United Women.

 St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for this evenings game. The rain forecast coming later in the day and not as much as predicted meaning the game wasn’t in danger of getting called off as was the case after heavy rain a 3 weeks ago for Cambridge derby. Light rain falling as I arrived at the ground but that would clear. The temperature dropping sharply however with a return to wintery conditions after what has been a relative heat wave at the start of the week. The grass pitch offering plenty off width.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Abbi Griffin, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Faith Hewitt, Gisella Otten (C), Emma Jenkins, Abi Davies, Laura Mitchell & Ruth Fox. Subs – Kira Markwell, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Ella Marden, Charlotte Crisp & Nicole Emmings.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Lucy Webster (C), Hannah Nebbitt, Vicky Neal, Chloe Gunn, Shianne Swarres, Holly Greenwood, Jodie Bellinger, Kate French, Emily Schofield & Amy Makewell. Subs – Shakeela Hussain, Jodie Southby, Dionne Manning, Poppy Bennett & Louise Godden

It’s Stevenage to get this evening encounter underway kicking off the 1st half, wearing white shirts with red sleeves, red shorts and socks with Cambridge opposite line up wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts an socks. The ball played back to the defence sent long out to the right wing, players racing forward, Emma Jenkins getting hold of it for Cambridge, moves forwards, Amy Makewell closing down tackling to win the ball back for Stevenage lays it out wide right for Jodie Bellinger on the flank, turns inside reaching the area before putting her foot through the ball, her attempt blocked by Cambridge’s Abbi Griffin going out for a throw.

  Stevenage pushing forwards at the start of the game looking to take the game to Cambridge, keeping the hosts pinned back in their own half. Laura Mitchell taking the ball on for Cambridge powering forwards on the left moves inside getting all the way top the top of the box before Chloe Gunn gets across her well to defend able to shield the ball as goalkeeper, Tea Oldroyd comes to claim dropping to smother the ball. Both full backs for Stevenage looking to get on in support on the wings, captain Lucy Webster on the right, Hannah Nebbitt on the left a throw won high on the left the ball lifted on into the box, Emily Schofield up at the near post with a glancing header aiming to send it on, Rachel Kosky cutting it out at the back for Cambridge, a recent addition to the squad clearing the ball into midfield. 

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

  A tussle in the middle of the park, saw Shianne Swarres tackling and breaking up play at the Hertfordshire County Cup final, is playing in the same vein this evening and with Cambridge’s Gisella Otten captaining the side this evening in the middle too it will be an interesting contest to watch. The ball fed to Abi Davies right side she plays it inside for attacker Ruth Fox her foot up attempting to bring the ball down as a Stevenage player stoops into the header caught the decision going Stevenage’s way a free-kick on half way. Webster putting the ball in towards the top of the box, won and cleared by Otten. 

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

  Both sides not settled yet play bitty at times as passes are rushed, the opposition closing each other down the ball toing and froing between defences. Swarres digging the ball out from under her feet on halfway clipping a great ball forwards for Bellinger to attacker running clear. Lauren Webb with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to scoop the ball up into her gloves. Otten in midfield out to Davies right played up into Fox she turns looking to take on the defence, Vicky Neal close at hand to get her foot on the ball take it away from her. 

  A positive break for Cambridge on the left Jenkins winning it short to Fox with Laura Mitchell to her right taking it on up the wing, riding a Swarres tackle continues her run, Amy Makewell tracking back well for Stevenage catching Mitchell, tackling to halt the attack. Kosky dealing with the threat at the back as Holly Greenwood lifts a ball onto Schofield up top coming through the centre. Nebbitt up with Kate French on the left a free-kick won deep as good as a corner, plenty packed into the area in front of goal the ball floated into the mix the referee spotting an infringement however Cambridge have the free-kick. 

  A strong run on the ball from Schofield for Stevenage through the middle lifting it on into the box with the outside of her boot, won back by Kosky. Good pressure applied by Stevenage  going forwards finding their rhythm quicker than Cambridge. Griffin able to get on with the ball on the left for Cambridge with Jenkins crossed in the clearance won back in the middle, clipped back up to the top of the area Neal heading it away, Cambridge snapping at the ball getting it back on over the top but play halted by a raised flag. 

Nebbitt attacking on the left delivering a high cross in towards the near post, watched well by Webb at her near post, taking the catch. Webster up on the right with Bellinger off a throw the a great cross flashed through the six yard box players attacking far post, none getting a telling touch. Stevenage strong on the left getting on well, Anna Re stepping in with the tackle getting hold of the ball for Cambridge on for Davies puts it long looking for Fox, too much though as Oldroyd can come out and claim the ball. Davies finding some space on the right flank a good touch seeing her take the ball on up the line before delivering a great cross in towards the neat post Mitchell sliding into the six posting connecting putting the ball wide of the post.

  Midway through the 2nd half and it remains a cagey affair with neither side finding a break through, Greenwood with Swarres on up to Schofield up to looking to bring the ball down and turn at attack, Kosky marking backing off giving herself the opportunity to clear the dropping ball. Swarres tackling in the middle threading it through the middle, Kosky composed seeing it back to her keeper as both Schofield and Makewell give chase. Davies carrying a threat on the right for Cambridge with a driving run on the ball before firing an angled strike wide across goal. 

Amy Makewell

Swarres tackling winning possession shifts the ball between her feet letting fly from 20 plus yard out, Lauren Rouse stepping forwards to put in the block for Cambridge. The hosts awarded a free kick 30 yards out to the right of the Stevenage area the delivery long to the far post Jenkins getting her head to the ball. falls straight to the keeper. Cambridge winning the ball high on the left attack the ball squared across the top of the D, Davies, right side a shot driven in along the ground the ball skipping up in front of Oldroyd she gathers cleanly with Fox closing in. 

Kosky winning the ball at the back for Cambridge cleared out to the right Davies forwards with support from Fox who takes the ball on fire in ear post Mitchell arriving the ball turned wide of the goal. Greenwood on for Makewell through the centre attempting the through ball for Schofield, Kosky stabbing out a boot to push the ball away from the attacker. Stevenage come on Makewell out for French on the right running down the line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross in looping up swerves over the crossbar. The game livening up towards the end of the 1st half Stevenage getting players up, Fox attacking tries to find Jenkins to her left, Webster in to tackle for Stevenage.

  Cambridge in the corner on the left Mitchell back to Jenkins lays the ball in central with Griffin up in an advanced position 20 yards out clips a shot up over the bar. Stevenage come left winning a free-kick 35 yards out. A teasing ball fired into the area sees Webb scrambling across her goal, the ball bouncing wide, a corner awarded much to Cambridge’s consternation. Nebbitt with an inswinging delivery from the right her effort coming back down off the crossbar, Makewell’s snap shot blocked the ball cleared Cambridge break a foul given as play is brought back following no advantage, Stevenage’s turn to be aggravated by a decision. The ball floated up to the top of the area well defended comes out to Schofield on halfway is one on one with only Griffin behind the ball, the full back needing to time her tackle well and does to prevent Schofield getting past to take a run at goal.

Davies taking the ball on well up the right flank whipping a cross into the box Oldroyd up making a spectacular grab to pluck the ball out of the air. Stevenage get on well down the left Nebbitt getting up the pitch to send in a great ball to the near post, Schofield up well twisting her body as she heads the ball, sending her attempt wide across the Cambridge goal.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

 The sides head into the changing rooms goalless at the break. An unsettled start from both sides, highly competitive in the middle. Stevenage the quicker to settle having the better of it getting players on down the flanks but haven’t tested Webb as yet Nebbitt’s inswinging corner hitting the bar there closest chance. Cambridge have competed well enough with Davies making some great runs on the right putting in some dangerous ball. Oldroyd like Webb at the other end relatively untroubled however. 

  Is getting colder by the minute as the sides emerge for the 2nd half a big 45 to come with both wanting the points. No changes as yet Cambridge to get the 2nd period underway the ball lifted long to the left Webster seeing it out for a throw. Kosky at the back on for Mitchell central plays it back to Re on the left forwards down the line for Davies, Nebbitt defending the ball going for a throw. A tentative start to the 2nd half players quick to close the ball down rushing forwards passes. 

Cambridge’s Abi Davies

 Mitchell central the hosts breaking with players running on Gunn moving out to deal with the threat on the left as Jenkins looks to take the ball on out for a throw. Mitchell getting hold of the ball running on central Fox ahead of her into the left channel, Mitchell running beyond her making for the box as Fox finds Jenkins on the left to lift a ball into the box, Nebbitt defending on the penalty spot to ensure Mitchell can’t get a touch to turn it goalwards. Neal on Fox left side to see the ball out for a throw in the corner. Cambridge showing more intent in the 2nd half. 

Stevenage’s Vicky Neal

 Stevenage come away with the ball moving right the crossfield pass well placed picking out French on the move on the left side, Re closing in defending at the top of the area for Cambridge. The sides less cagey no the tempo risen wanting the ball played on quicker my well invite a mistake. A crossfield ball played left to right knocked down well by Davies moving wide her cross deflecting behind off a defender for a corner kick. The ball played in to the top of the area put back to Jenkins out wide, Neal moving out to press Jenkins turning for the by-line digs a cross out the ball cut out at the near post. 

Stevenage’s Kate French

  Kosky getting across Schofield shields the ball back to Webb as it it put on from midfield. Mitchel attacking on the left tackled by Gunn the ball played up to French advancing on the left driving on into the area, Kosky with a great challenge to deny the shot. An hour played Stevenage make a double change with Jodie Southby and Louise Godden on for Nebbitt and Makewell respectfully. Hewitt in the middle playing the pass on for Davies right down the line checking inside heading for the box lays it back to Hewitt 25 yards out sends a high ball up into the area, Oldroyd up to claim holds onto the ball despite being taken out Gunn marking Fox.

  Godden getting back pressing the ball into Swarres moving left on the left up for French wins her side a corner. Everyone lined up beyond the far post the delivery sent into the mix is cleared by Cambridge, play stopped due to a head injury for a Cambridge player. Swarres moving out right slowing down Re as she looks to break with Davies on the wing. Mitchell working form midfield seeing more of the ball for Cambridge almost threads a pass through to Jenkin’s up top, Neal in well to get a foot on the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick out wide left dropping top of the D to Otten on the turn does quite catch the whole of the ball seeing it lack the pace needed to beat Oldroyd as it skips through to goal. 

 Schofield central playing the pass out to French on the left into the corner works a cross into the area the ball cleared out to the right, Bellinger racing onto it 25 yards out Hewitt there to block as she smashes the ball. Cambridge make their first change with Rouse coming off at the back to be replaced by Kayleigh-Anne Burt returning to the 1st team after a lengthy layoff through injury. Stevenage too making another change Schofield coming off for Dionne Manning. Mitchell travelling with the ball out for Davies to her right looking to go on Southby into her to tackle the ball out for a throw.

  20 minutes left to play no side on top yet, Cambridge carrying the threat 2nd half. Hewitt 25 yards out seeing a goal bound attempt blocked. Jenkins with a shot from distance on the left rolling wide. A time out both sides coming over to the benches with Godden needing treatment for Stevenage. Okay to continue Cambridge on the right Fox up with Davies the cross into the area cleared by Neal. Stevenage with a free-kick wide right, cleared for a throw in the corner put back up the line an angled ball lifted into the box, Webb down to claim low at French’s feet as she closes in. A 2nd change for Cambridge, Fox coming off for Nicole Emmings now back at Cambridge after 4 season’s with Stevenage. Shakeela Hussain also on for Stevenage in place of Bellinger.

 Into the final 10 minutes, the ball cleared from the Stevenage area is loose there to be won, Jenkins sliding in getting the ball but catching the foot of the Stevenage player attempting to clear coming the other way with her trailing leg. The Cambridge bench unhappy as Jenkins goes into the book. Mitchell attacking right with Davies, Gunn closing in to tackle, Emmings getting the ball back for Cambridge from the right sends a cross along the face of goal Jenkins coming in beyond the back stick unable to get a touch, the ball cleared into the middle Hewitt latching onto it 25 yards out sending a shot back in the effort blocked. Players down for Stevenage seeing a pause in play.

Cambridge’s Faith Hewitt

  Hewitt on for Otten through the middle for Cambridge onto Jenkins left channel, Swarres back to tackle for the visitors. The ball lifted forwards Godden peeling left attacking is halted by Burt. Jenkins on the ball left checking inside, closed down ends up committing a foul, called over by the referee is in trouble having only been booked minutes before as players scuffle beyond her. That broken up before the 2nd yellow card is issued and Jenkins is sent off Cambridge finishing the game with 10. No advantage for Stevenage however as they themselves are forced down to 10 with Webster needing to come off.

  Stevenage send everyone up into the box as they are awarded a free-kick wide left the clock ticking down one last push to fin a winning goal. In the end the high ball in is an easy claim for Webb. Godden getting on with the ball coming inside left, is tackled by Burt before she can reach the area. The hosts looking a little nervous as they drop back in the closing stages not wanting to concede. Burt fouled this time as Stevenage get the ball into Godden. Stevenage breaking in stoppage time the ball right into Godden sending on into the area, Webb rushing out to slide in to claim the ball in the nick of time, the offside flag up in any case. 

 Southby out left defending against Davies as she brings the ball on for Cambridge. Stevenage want to get forwards an altercation on the left seeing a free-kick awarded, Neal going into the book for voicing her opinion about a decision. A high ball into the Cambridge box defended seen out for a throw. The final whistle blowing the honours even.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

 The points shared in the finish and overall a fair result a late winner for either would have been welcome but looked increasingly unlikely. Cambridge with the better of the 2nd period taking the game to Stevenage who had few opportunities. Again neither keeper overly tested, promising forward play the final ball not clinical. Cambridge the happier at the end with the clean sheet ending a run of defeats, with 3 left to play and with other results this evening aren’t likely to fall in the drop zone now. As you were in the bottom 4. Kent Football United’s tenure in the FAWNL coming to an end can’t escape now with 4 left to play. Stevenage 11th on 18 points remain 3 points from safety with 2 games left. Enfield Town Ladies in 9th on 21 points drawing with QPR. Stevenage away to Kent Football United before finishing their season at home to QPR can yet get out of trouble.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Is another tough one a battling display from both sides. Performances of note include Shianne Swarres in the middle for Stevenage with a number of tackles to disrupt Cambridge throughout the match. Vicky Neal composed at the back with Emily Schofield carrying a threat in attack. For Cambridge Abi Davies was a constant threat on the right side making a number of daring runs putting she dangerous crosses into the box. Laura Mitchell with the ball, attacking and getting hold of it in the centre in the 2nd half. The award though goes to defender Rachel Kosky. Cambridge’s new defensive signing with and assured and composed performance in defence, reading the game and winning the ball.

 A chilly night in St Neots, my own fault for leaving my hat and gloves behind in Norfolk. Successive 0-0, that is a rare occurrence to say the least but defences were on top this evening chances at a premium in a evenly fought contest. My thanks to both sides for the team details and their help, as always appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Peterborough United Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Sunday 27th March

FAWNL Midlands Division One

A return to the league this Sunday with a trip west along the A47 to watch a game from FAWNL Midlands Division One. Peterborough United Women promoted to the FAWNL for the 1st time this season taking on 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles.

 A league not normally covered by Women’s Football East, Peterborough itself is with a number of clubs featuring across the various leagues. Is a hot bed for footballing talent with Peterborough United Women currently the leading club in the area.

Enjoying strong links with the men’s club playing in the EFL Championship. Peterborough United Women were pushing hard for promotion from the East Midlands Regional Premier Division only to be denied through the Covid pandemic bringing 2 seasons to an early finish, were awarded promotion this season as the FA expanded the sides above across the women’s football pyramid. A win on the opening day followed by successive draws proceeding a run of 5 straight defeats on the league seeing the club in trouble with 4 sides likely to be relegated reduced to 3 with withdrawal of Holwell Sports.

A change of management seeing Dan Lawlor taking on the 1st team. Results in 2022 much improved with the club turning a corner 3 straight wins pulling The Posh Women as they are also know away from the bottom 3. Are unbeaten at home so far in 2022 up to 7th in the table 9 points clear of the drop zone and with 5 games to go will be aiming to consolidate a midtable finish. Captain, Keir Perkins the leading goal scorer with 17 overall from 22 appearances whilst Jess Driscoll has 11 from 21 games.

Have fond memories of watching Doncaster Rovers Belles in my days supporting fellow WSL founding side Lincoln Ladies. Unfortunately both clubs were dealt some heavy blows as the top flight of women’s football tried to find it’s feet in those early years. A club with a long and rich history in the game the financial pressure saw the club lose it’s place in the what was WSL 2 then re-joining the FAWNL. Dropping down to tier 4 as the rebuilding process began, the Covid pandemic has hampered a quick return.

Lay 2nd in the Midlands Division One table with just 3 defeats from 18 played so far 9 points behind leaders Boldmere St Michaels who look strong to clinch the title. With 2 games in hands however Doncaster Rovers Belles can apply pressure in the run in while making sure they don’t get caught, by the new version of Lincoln City Women who are hot on their heels in 3rd. Jasmine Saxton their top scorer netting 18 goals overall so far from 23 appearances.

The idverde Training Ground the venue for today’s match the academy ground, boasting one all weather pitch with two grass pitches beyond. A small covered seated stand for spectators on one side. A decent size the clocks going forward this weekend, the weather pleasant all week staying great for this afternoon’s game some cloud around, but warm and bright with no chance of rain. 

Peterborough United Women

Peterborough United Women starting XI – Amy Butler, Kayleigh Aylmer, Niamh Connor, Natalie Hurst, Evie Driscoll-King, Cassie Steward, Elloise Copson, Jess Driscoll, Beatrix Borque,  Katie Steward & Kier Perkins (C). Subs – Sophie Powell, Hannah Hipwell, Katie Lowder & Destiny Makenjuola.

Doncaster Rovers Belles

Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI – Eleanor Sharpe, Jessica Andrew (C), Isabella Trevillion, Holly Housley, Charlotte Dinsdale, Sophie Scargill, Lauren Breen, Sophie Bell, Lindsey Tugby, Nadia Khan & Jasmine Saxton. Subs – Hannah McWilliams, Emily Cahill, Freya Rattenbury, Phoebe Sneddon & Jessica Price.

Peterborough’s Reserve side playing at the same time on one of the grass pitches beside the 3G taking on Coalville Town Women in the EMWRFL Division One South. Both games pausing for a minutes silence, on Mother’s Day in remembrance of all those who have lost their mother’s.

It’s Peterborough to get this afternoon’s game underway wearing  blue shirts with white sleeves, white shorts and blue socks. Doncaster lined up opposite wearing an all red kit with white horizontal piping. Played back into midfield passed out to right back Kayleigh Aylmer looks to get it up the wing charged down play spread to the left Beatrix Borque able to travel with the ball for Peterborough sends the ball on for striker and captain Kiers Perkins to hunt down, Charlotte Dinsdale getting across her seeing the ball back to her goalkeeper Eleanor Sharpe.

  Perkins nipping in to pressure the ball in the left corner as it is put on from a throw in winning Peterborough an early corner. The inswinging delivery headed clear by Doncaster at the near post. Peterborough quick to regain possession put back to corner taker Katie Steward coming back up the line on the left sends a dangerous ball into the six yard box Evie Driscoll-King stooping to head the ball down towards goal, Sharpe with a reflex save throw herself down to her left to keep it out, superb goalkeeper. An early chance of Peterborough to open the scoring.

Eleanor Sharpe with a superb save for Doncaster Rovers Belles early in the game

Doncaster snapping after the ball in the middle Sophie Scargill recently returning to the side after suffering an ACL injury putting it on for Lauren Breen clipped diagonally out to the right with Nadia Khan finding space in the right channel takes on the early strike cutting the angled shot high and wide of the near post. Tugby winning the ball in midfield she drives forwards  sending it out to Khan away on the right wing squares an inviting ball across Peterborough’s six yard box, cut out by the defence at the far post and cleared. A lively opening pace in attack from both sides.

Nadia Khan controlling the ball for Doncaster Rovers Belles

  The attackers looking to take the game on to their opponents Jess Driscoll on for Perkins she lifts it on for Katie Steward through the middle, Sharpe needs to come win the ball outside her box, just about gets their as she and Steward collide The loose ball regained by Peterborough wide left an attempt to find the empty net made the ball bouncing harmlessly wide of the near post Katie Steward down for a moment recently back herself after dislocating her thumb. Is okay to continue. 

Peterborough attacker, Katie Steward looking to get the better of Doncaster’s Charlotte Dinsdale

  Seen Amy Butler at two different clubs already this season, outfield and in goal. No 1 of Peterborough, needs to come racing out of her box to clear as Khan threatens to break into the box from the left. Cassie Steward busy in the middle for Peterborough in to tackle the ball played out to Borque on the left, looks to get on, Doncaster’s Isabella Trevillion in to challenge her the ball out for a throw. Pressure from Perkins on the throw bringing another corner.

Doncaster’s Isabella Trevillion

  Even start both sides pressing the ball well wanting to get it forwards with pace. Cassie Steward playing the ball on for Perkins in attack sends it out to the right with the full back coming on the cross sent in Perkins goes to head it’s Charlotte Dinsdale who wins it to head the ball on picked up by Tugby, Doncaster counter attack through the middle, Tugby racing on with the ball, on for Jasmine Saxton outside the D passes to Sophie Bell on the right wing held up gets it back to Tugby to as Peterborough get back in numbers to defend their box, right side Tugby puts it into Saxton’s find inside the area, looks to shift left and turn into the shot, Cassie Steward back to put in the blocking tackle.

Doncaster’s Lindsey Tugby challenging Peterborough’s Jess Driscoll

  Driscoll coming away clear with the ball at her feet through the middle for Peterborough has Katie Steward providing a run into the left channel, sends the pass into her feet looks clear to bear down on goal sends her shot wide of the post. A lively opening 10 minutes. Peterborough attack right Cassie Stewards up with Perkins and sister Katie. Doncaster captain, Jessica Andrew tackling the attack breaking down outside the box as Dinsdale clears it long looking for Khan. Breen and Tugby both looking to travel with the ball whenever Doncaster mount an attack the latter getting her shirt tugged by Driscoll winning a free-kick 30 yards out. 

Charlotte Dinsdale winning the ball at the back for Doncaster

The set-piece defended Peterborough are quickly on the attack play going right Cassie Steward with Aylmer up on the right, crossed in early no one gambling through the middle Sharpe can take the catch unopposed. Scargill on for Breen drives forwards out to the left plays the ball inside to Saxton inside the D, nods it down to the right, for a moment Bell on that side has an opening if she can reach the ball to charge into the box and take a shot, Borque though recovering well for Peterborough just gets their first to clear the ball. Breen finding gaps to run into with the ball sends it on for Khan running into the left corner, checks back up the pick before being brought down for the free-kick. Tugby over it curls a shot on the angle in towards goal, Butler with an easy claim. 

Doncaster midfielder, Sophie Scargill

  Butler starts to come to try and win the ball before Saxton as she is put through by Khan on the left, can’t get there is stranded as Saxton spots Bell available on the right, goes for it 20 yards out her first time effort curled over the bar. Katie Steward and Perkins work the ball well on the left side getting it squared central with Cassie Steward racing on from midfield, connects first time cutting her shot high away from goal. Peterborough giving it a go Driscoll tackling on for Perkins lays the ball to the right for Katie Steward her angled cross falling near post collected by Sharpe.

Kayleigh Aylmer

  Aylmer getting on with the ball right inside for Cassie Steward, plays it into Katie Steward outside the box she looks to find Perkins inside the D, Andrew and Dinsdale into challenge getting the ball clear to their left, Aylmer latching onto it a high ball clipped into the box, taken high by Sharpe. Breen gets on the move down the right side a powerful run as Bell sends the pass on for her looks to travel all the way to the by-line whip a cross in across the face of goal, Niamh Connor closing down tackling to see that doesn’t happen.

Peterborough’s Niamh Connor

  From the resulting throw in the ball in lifted into Trevillion 20 yards out right of the D, puts her foot through the strike, is charged down by Peterborough centre back, Natalie Hurst. Khan taking the ball on down the right, combines with Saxton the pair exchanging passes finding their way into the box wide of goal, Butler comes to smother the ball at Saxton’s feet. Khan looking dangerous running into the channels plays it infield for Breen outside the D, she is brought down, Doncaster with a set-piece in a dangerous position. Breen to take it goes for goal her shot curling wide of the far post.

Nadia Khan

  Midway through the 1st half has been a lively game so far. Doncaster mount an attack Breen on for Tugby sending it out to Khan free on the right, wraps her foot around the cross sending an inviting ball into the six yard box, headed clear by Driscoll-King. The visitors looking to pressure the ball higher get caught on the counter Driscoll taking it on through the middle threading it on for Perkins right of the D, Andrew getting across well to shield the ball as Sharpe comes to gather at her feet. 

One captain holding off the other, Kier Perkins with Jessica Andrew

  Aylmer right on Katie Steward down the line her cross angled in near side, Perkins the target, Sharpe snatching down first. Breen passing into Khan on the right Bell up with her in the corner, a cross working in dropping inside the six yard box, Butler claims well under pressure from Saxton. Peterborough with players up for a throw on the left, Driscoll is tackled the ball loose Trevillion playing it on for Saxton the visitors break the striker, picking out Khan making a right channel run shifting inside, Elloise Copson across with a well timed tackle get the ball Doncaster first to the loose ball 25 yards out the long range lob dropping wide of the far post.

  Borque takes the ball on down the left after good work from Cassie Steward to regain possession in the middle. Borque playing a diagonal ball into the area, Perkins going forward marked by Dinsdale who tackles the ball out to the left collected by Borque floated back in on the angle claimed safely by Sharpe. Housley getting forwards on the left for Doncaster checking back before being tackled by Aylmer the ball coming to Breen 25 yards out pulls her 25 yard  strike wide across goal. 

 Into the final 5 minutes of the first half, Driscoll battling for possession in the centre finding Borque on the left wing, Bell getting back at her challenging for Doncaster. Scargill with Breen work the ball on well through the middle before Driscoll-King intercepts the forward pass for Peterborough, Tugby on with the ball for Doncaster passes to Khan outside the area right of the D, shifts inside to shoot taking a deflection off an attempted block the ball skips up over Butler landing on top of her crossbar out for a corner kick.

Peterborough’s Cassie Steward

 Dinsdale winning the ball at the ball plays it forwards into Scargill through the middle plays it to the right for Saxton moving into the corner plays it up the line for Bell to lift a curling cross into the area, headed away by Hurst. One last attack for Peterborough with Cassie Steward winning the ball in the middle on for Katie Steward who looks to play it on for Perkins the through ball running behind her as she looks to go across to the right.  

Half-time Peterborough United Women 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

  An entertaining first half draws to a close with the sides goalless at the break. Has been a lively game Peterborough taking the game to Doncaster both sides looking to get on with the ball quickly, defences standing firm. Peterborough with a great opportunity to open the scoring inside the opening 2 minutes but for a smart save from Doncaster keeper, Eleanor Sharpe. Players on both sides with driving runs through the middle, defences dropping deep at times to limit opportunities inside the area. An intriguing contest will be interesting to see if both sides can keep it up 2nd half. 

Sophie Scargill with Cassie Steward

  A change for Doncaster at the break Emily Cahill on for Housley. No changes for Peterborough. Doncaster to get the 2nd half underway. The ball played long out to Khan racing on right side, Connor though can see it out for a goal kick. Scargill regaining possession in the middle finds Saxton on the right has Tugby up with her the pair looking to exchange passes on the wing come inside Hurst challenging the loose ball lifted back over the top finding Tugby offside. 

Driscoll continues to snap into the tackles winning possession in the middle for Peterborough sends the ball out to Aylmer on the right, drills a pass into Perkins inside the box, holds it up but can’t pick out a teammate as she is closed down by Dinsdale and Andrew. Doncaster are looking to take the game to Peterborough at the start of the 2nd half, Saxton with Tugby linking on the left, Hurst getting amongst them to tackle, Tugby on the loose ball attempting to lay it into Khan positioned inside the D, Driscoll-King winning it. 

Breen taking attack to Peterborough looks to batter her way through into the box, Hurst defending well up against her. Cassie Steward central winning the ball for Peterborough lays it forwards for Perkins, too much on it though as Sharpe comes running out of her area to kick upfield. Driscoll on the ball with a great pass to find Borque clear on the left, Bell though recovers well for Doncaster to get back at her and tackle a throw for the hosts in the corner  

 Perkins doing well to win a corner on the right as Copson plays the ball down the line. Peterborough regaining some momentum with a free-kick on the left put into the box Dinsdale up with the defensive header deflected behind for a corner. An infringement spotted by the referee in the six yard box seeing Doncaster regain possession. Tempers flaring up as Tugby and Driscoll clash the referee having words with the pair. A free-kick wide right for Peterborough, Aylmer delivering it long to the back stick knocked back in across goal, Sharpe grabbing it, with Driscoll-King flying in.

Doncaster striker, Jasmine Saxton

  A change for Peterborough with almost an hour played Katie Steward coming off for Hannah Hipwell who goes into midfield with Cassie Steward moving up top join Perkins in attack. The new strike force looking to combine on the right, Breen getting back to win the ball, takes it on down the left flanks coming inside is brought down somewhat clumsily by Driscoll winning a free-kick. Driscoll lucky not to pick up a yellow card. Andrew to play the set-piece up into the box cleared away from a throw on the right. 

Bell winning Doncaster a corner on the right, a great delivery into the six yard box dropping central Dinsdale connects her shot smashing back off the post then put behind for a corner on the left. Played long beyond the far post cleared out to the top of the area Andrew retrieves no space to shoot plays it to Bell inside the box right side blasts a shot goalwards her effort blocked. Doncaster pressing the advantage coming left the cross angled in cut out by Driscoll-King sliding in at the near post. The visitors pushing hard on the right the cross over everyone in the middle, Breen reclaims it beyond the far post turns back towards goal lifting her shot over the bar.

  Hipwell carrying the ball on through the middle finding Cassie Steward on the right, comes back inside before lifting a cross into the far post with the outside of her boot, Borque flying in can’t get a touch as the ball runs wide of the far post. Peterborough with a corner goes long to Hurst at the far post nods it back into the centre met by Perkins, is narrowly over the crossbar. Chances for both sides with no let up in the tempo. Steward on the right from a throw swivels to put a cross into the centre of the six yard box, too close to the keeper with Sharpe taking it as Perkins makes the run.

Peterborough’s Jess Driscoll

  Final balls not always finding their mark but this is more to good reading of the ball from both defences more than anything else. Bell winning Doncaster a corner on the right before it is taken however a change with a little over quarter an hour left, Khan coming off for Hannah McWilliams. Peterborough with a change too Borque off replaced by Katie Lowder. The corner swung in centrally, Andrew up well to meet it, her header directed wide of the far post.

   Breen has been upended several times during the match, Steward the latest to do so, earning herself a yellow card. The set-piece wide on the left lifted in towards the penalty spot put behind for a corner kick. The corner going through everyone attacking the far post. Doncaster with a 3rd change Scargill off for Jessica Price with 11 minutes left to play.  Steward with Perkins up on the left after the ball, Perkins back to Steward who shifts the ball between her feet before shooting on the angle her attempt wide across goal. 

 Both sides showing signs of nerves at the back as much as they want to score neither wants to concede so late in the game. Hurst is pulled back a free-kick wide right for Peterborough, Aylmer playing it into Steward inside the D lays it off of Driscoll is closed down quickly no room for a shot. Peterborough make a 3rd change Destiny Makenjuola on for Hurst. Lowder winning a poor kick out from the back goes forwards doesn’t get a clean strike away the ball running safely through to the keeper. 

Doncaster’s Jessica Price

 Connor with a great defending tackle inside the box on Saxton right of goal as the ball in clipped into her from Breen on the left. Price on the turn 25 yards out central to shoot as she gets hold of the loose ball, Butler coming across her goal can see it bounce wide of her left post. Driscoll-King turning the ball behind for a corner on the right as Doncaster get forwards with Bell and Saxton. Put into the middle isn’t cleared, a scramble seeing it hooked clear. Advantage played as Driscoll charging through the middle is tugged back. The ball running on for Perkins holds it up well picking out Steward to the right of the D, her shot charged down.

   Driscoll with another free-kick won 30 yards out, struck towards goal, strikes a Doncaster arm the referee with a better view of it awarding the hosts a free kick just outside the D to the right of centre. Lowder over  in the 88th minute curling a shot past the wall, Sharpe diving to her right can’t get there the shot cannoning back off the upright, then behind for a goalkick as a blue and white shirt flies in.

Kate Lowder’s late free-kick striking the post

 So close for Peterborough at the death, the hosts come on again Driscoll on for Hipwell picks out Steward right of the D, inside to angle a ball across to the far post, Perkins diving on can’t quite reach in goal kick. Into stoppage time a frantic final minute neither side giving an inch as the final whistle blows to see the points shared.

Full time Peterborough United Women 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

 A hard fought point for Peterborough in the finish, frustrating Doncaster in an evenly fought contest. Defences on top for the most part a good opportunity at either end of the match for the hosts to score a goal. Both sides striking the woodwork. The later the game wore on nerves played a part. Peterborough as keen to keep the clean sheet than they were to score. Doncaster pushed forwards just couldn’t find a way through. As a neutral it was a great game to watch despite it being 0-0 and I don’t see too many of those.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. It’s another tough one ultimately to pick out an individual player but I have my notes to help me out. Defences were solid and worked hard throughout for both sides. For Doncaster, Nadia Khan posed a threat on the flanks going forwards. Lindsey Tugby through the middle with so dynamic runs. Lauren Breen got clattered several times for her efforts but such was the threat she posed to the opposition with some strong runs forwards. For Peterborough Beatrix Borque carried a threat in the wide areas and it is neck and neck between the other two Cassie Steward battling for the ball well in the middle getting forwards then joining the attack 2nd half creating chances both for herself and others. Just edging it though is Jess Driscoll was strong on the ball in the centre winning possession back and taking the game to Doncaster.

An entertaining trip to Peterborough (once I got there) Been looking to get over see a game for a while and it’s always great to catch up with Doncaster Rovers Belles. My thanks to both clubs for assisting me with the team details, much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge City Ladies v Newmarket Town Women

Tuesday 22nd March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

 Hot on the heels of the 1st Cup Final of the season, comes the 2nd with a Tuesday night trip to the Abbey Stadium for the Final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup sponsored by S-tech insurance. Cambridge City Ladies the current holders taking on Newmarket Town Women reaching their 1st ever county cup final.

  Looking back to March 2020 the Women’s Invitation Cup on the 5th was to be the last final of the season with the Covid pandemic hitting, seeing the that and the following campaign cut short. Is great to have finals to look forwards to at the end of the season again a busy spell personally but opportunities to win silverware abound with some great contests to look forwards too.

  S-Tech Insurance sponsoring the Invitation Cup competitions have be proud supporters of the woman’s game for close to 15 years now. The Abbey Stadium once again hosting the final, home of Cambridge United FC who have been promoting the woman’s game heavily over the past month with a number of games played at the venue.

This evenings prize

Cambridge City Ladies of FAWNL Division One South East missing out in the final last time out back in 2019. Easing through to the final of the competition this time around. Are looking to become an established side in the 4th tier having been promoted in the season the pandemic hit following a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid. Traditionally a side that thrives on youth bringing players up through the various age groups with 3 senior sides a Reserves and Development side backing up the first team. Getting themselves up into midtable early on are now 8th with recent results going against them find themselves closer to the relegation zone than they would like with sides gaining late season momentum below a win though and everything changes. Grace Stanley their top scorer with 21 goals so far from 24 appearances.

 Newmarket Town Women are on course for their highest ever league finish in the women’s football pyramid aswell as reaching the County Cup final for the first time. Plying their trade in ERWFL Division One North, are in 2nd spot in the league table having played out their fixtures with the division dropping down to just 7 sides. Can be caught by Biggleswade United Ladies but can finish no lower than 3rd. Again traditionally a young side bringing players up through there youth set-up with a Development side in the division below, have had to do a little rebuilding in recent seasons with players moving on. Have brought in attackers Katie Hayes from Mildenhall Town Women and Lydia Mykhaylechko from Cambridge University Women both with a good return for the season so far 25 goals between them with Katie Spiers also coming in netting 13 from just 12 appearances.

Road to the Final

  A bye for both sides in he 1st round of the Invitation Cup. Cambridge City advancing from the 2nd round without kicking a ball awarded the home win over Leverington Sports Ladies. Newmarket at home to Histon Ladies now of Cambridge Division One after losing a fair number of senior players over the summer. Newmarket strong on the day with Lydia Mykhaylechko scoring a brace along with goal for Jess Linger, Chloe Slater, Katie Hayes, Faith Entwhistle and Katie Spiers in a 7-0 win.

  Big wins for both too in the quarter finals of the competition. Cambridge City at home to Cambridge Division Two title challengers Cambridge Rangers WFC. 4 division between the sides Cambridge City racking up a double figure score line with Grace Stanley netting a hat-trick, a brace each for Lauren Tomlinson and Amy Reed whilst there were 7 other scorers in a 14-1 win. Newmarket drawn away to another Cambridge Division One side, March Town United Ladies. Katie Hayes scoring twice along with goals for Mykhaylechko, Katie Webb and Antonia Smith to see Newmarket into the semi-finals with a 5-0 win.

  The semi-finals saw Cambridge City drawn away from home to take on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds of Cambridge Division One. Karly Tolentino scoring a brace with a goal each from Shannon Shaw and Grace Stanley securing Cambridge City’s place in the final with a 4-0 victory. Newmarket at home to Cambridge Division Two side Park Ladies in the semi-finals Katie Spiers bagging herself a hat-trick as Newmarket went on to reach their first ever county cup final in a 5-1 win. Linger and Mykhaylechko with the other goals.

The Abbey Stadium hosting this evenings Invitation Cup Final

  The Abbey Stadium the venue for this evenings final under the lights. Home of League One side Cambridge United FC. The club itself promoting the women’s game strongly over the past month with thier women’s side playing the first of 2 matches here beating Norwich City Women 1-0 and playing again this coming Sunday against Billericay Town Women. The pitch offering plenty of width a great occasion for both sets of players. The weather perfect for a cup final has been a warm day, dry and mild. 

Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Amy Reed, Jess Evans, Ceri Flye, Mulheron Bronwyn, Hannah Bodily, Ellie Cullum, Lauren Tomlinson, Charlotte Gillies, Amie Fullwood & Grace Stanley. Subs – Karly Tolentino, Freya Goddard, Zynia Delglyn, Bella Ely & Rosie Mead.

Newmarket Town Women

 Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Jess Linger, Kara Wayman, Becca Towler, Liv Caffarelli, Antonia Smith, Chloe Slater (C), Katie Spiers, Katie Hayes, Katie Walker & Lydia Mykhaylechko. Subs – Grace Joslin, Katie Webb, Annabelle Herring, Alex Milner & Faith Entwhistle.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A decent atmosphere building before kick-off the teams walking out onto the pitch lining up in front of the main stand before shaking hands. It will be Cambridge to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with black trim, black shorts with white trim and black and white hooped socks. Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts, blue shorts and white coloured socks. The ball played back to right back Amy Reed sent long up the line for striker Grace Stanley to chase, see out safely out of play by Newmarket’s Kara Wayman.

Katie Walker on the ball for Newmarket (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Cambridge up on the right a throw in pressuring the Newmarket back line. Winning an early corner players up from the back the ball fizzed in towards the near post cleared out to the right for a throw, as good as a corner with the throwing ability of Lauren Tomlinson. Cambridge building on the left the ball out Tomlinson throwing it long into the box for Stanley, Jess Linger getting in close to defend see the ball out for a goal kick. Bronwyn Mulheron with a commanding defensive header to clear the ball for Cambridge at the back as Newmarket play it long up through the middle.

Newmarket midfielder Antonia Smith (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Pace evident in both sides Newmarket looking for the run of Katie Spiers on the right the pass cut out fed into midfield a quick counter launched the ball in behind for Stanley moving into the left channel into the box brings the ball inside before attempting to curl a shot around the keeper, the ball angling into Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary who catches cleanly. A lively start Cambridge quick to turn play around, Ceri Flye winning the ball at the back out to Tomlinson on the left, Spiers coming back to slide in take the ball away from her.

   Tomlinson gets away moment later down the left flank running on with the ball into the box, Linger getting in close to pressure, the ball running out of play. Pressure in attack from Cambridge midfielders Hannah Bodily and Ellie Cullum playing the ball out to the wings Charlotte Gillies and Tomlinson providing good width forcing Newmarket back into their own box. Becca Towler intercepting a cross from the right starting from deep, Spiers on the right and Katie Hayes on the left are trying to provide passing options on the wings but all too often Cambridge are closing the ball down before the pass can be attempted.

   Jess Evans heading the ball clear from the top of the area as Katie Walker attempts a diagonal pass long from the left for Newmarket. Spiers through the middle quick on for Hayes who plays it on through aiming for Lydia Mykhaylechko the pass intercepted by Mulheron outside the area cleared forwards. Antonia Smith in front of her defence getting in a timely tackle on Stanley as she snatches the ball and looks to drive forwards break through the defence. Cambridge getting numbers forwards in attack out on the right Gillies cross flung in towards the back stick, Newmarket captain, Chloe Slater there to bring the ball down and clear. 

Newmarket defender, Becca Towler (photo credit Sean Doyle)

 Linger from distance puts a free-kick wide of the Cambridge goal. The ball regained in the final 3rd Spiers on the right drives on before striking a shot on the angle fired in low towards the near post, Cambridge captain and goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson dropping down to easily gather the ball. Spiers looking lively on the right for Newmarket Slater lifting the ball into her, Evens getting across her the ball back with her keeper. 

  The game quickly switching from one end to the other as both sides break with purpose and pace Newmarket charge the ball down outside their area the clearance seeing Spiers racing after it, Evans with her blocking her early cross. Newmarket’s defence under more pressure with Cambridge regaining possession in midfield with 20 minutes played. Newmarket with a free-kick inside the Cambridge half on the right Linger to float the ball in towards the left, Cambridge defend and hit their opponents on the break, Gillies away on the right with support from Amie Fullwood the pair exchanging passes before Gillies scoops a cross in across goal from the by-line claimed high by Szary.

Cambridge City’s, Hannah Bodily (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Cullum is clattered in the middle trying to bring the ball on referee Ramona Bria playing a good advantage as the ball runs on through to Gillies right of the D, both Towler and Wayman are quick to close her down, Gillies held up getting the ball across to Fullwood inside the area left of goal, strokes a shot low beyond the far post.

  GOAL! Midway through the 1st half and the deadlock is broken Cambridge pressing the Newmarket defence, a misplaced past latched onto the ball fed diagonally out to the left Fullwood getting hold of it turning into the area and moving forwards drilling a shot home on the angle 1-0.

Amie Fullwood with Newmarket’s Liv Caffarelli opening the scoring for Cambridge City

  Cambridge quick to get the ball back from the restart keeping the ball inside Newmarket’s half Mulheron stepping forwards to claim it over half way connecting with the shot some 30 plus yards out, dipping late Szary stretching to make a top draw save tipping the ball over her crossbar for a corner kick. A low shot turned goalwards from the resulting corner Szary can see it out. 

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary (photo credit Sean Doyle)

 GOAL! 2 minutes after taking the late Cambridge go on to double their advantage. Coming from an error at the back the ball played out to the left by Szary, lost as Fullwood nips in to get hold of the ball powers her way on into the box then smashes a strike across the keeper into the back of the net 2-0.

Amie Fullwood scoring a quickfire double for Cambridge City (photo credit Sean Doyle)

 A frantic few minutes to say the least Newmarket rocked by two quickfire goal against them find themselves under more pressure getting out of shape at the back as Cambridge’s Bodily puts the ball out to Reed on the right on for Gillies forwards her cross looping into the six yard box scrambled away by Liv Caffarelli back to the right Gillies inside the box catching it on the half volley sending her effort wide across the face of goal. 

Slater on the ball through the middle for Newmarket gains ground looking to link with Spiers in front of the Cambridge defence no way through as Mulheron wins the defensive header. Slater looking to try and take the game to Cambridge picking the ball up battling her way on through to the top of the area her scuffed shot running harmlessly through to Hudson. Caffarelli winning the ball at the back well for Newmarket takes it on into midfield, gaining some ground before Bodily closes in with a strong challenge to win the ball. 

  A double switch for Cambridge then with Tomlinson and Gillies coming off, Karly Tolentino and Bella Ely coming on. Newmarket settling down again after conceding getting players further forwards Slater combining with Walker 30 yards out driving forwards into the left channel riding a tackle sending the ball on into the box for Mykhaylechko to attack, Flye shielding the ball for Hudson to gather.

Katie Spiers getting forwards for Newmarket (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Spiers using her pace getting back quickly to slide in tackle Ely as she threatens to take the ball on for Cambridge down the left flank. Spiers has space to run into on the right herself as the midfield lift the ball into her path taking it down on towards the Cambridge area unleashes a shot from 25 yards out on target, however Hudson is behind it all the way. Wayman getting up to support Walker and Hayes on the left winning a throw in the corner Cambridge have numbers back preventing the cross coming in launching a counter play spread to the left Linger blocking Ely’s attempted cross. 

  Smith conceding a free-kick out on the left as she comes across to tackle with Ely linking up with Cullum on the wing. Stanley over the set-piece a good delivery launched in high to the far post a runner late to arrive the ball there to be attacked bounces out of play. Stanley comes off then replaced by Zynia Delglyn. Hayes on the left for Newmarket into Mykhaylechko inside the box back to goal closely marked by Mulheron lays the ball out across the D to Slater bombing on from the middle on the run strikes the ball on target straight at Hudson though the keeper untroubled.

  Into the final 5 minutes of the first half Cambridge with a corner on the right, Newmarket defending but not clearing there line put back into the box the shot finding the back of the net, however it won’t counted the flag raised. Cambridge come again on the right another corner played in near side defended sent back out to the taker cut back towards Delglyn 20 yards out right side her shot bouncing through to goal held by Szary.

Spiers continues to look a threat for Newmarket on the right, Slater in the middle picking her out with space to run into pushing forwards from 25 yards sends a shot on the angle over the crossbar. A short back pass to Szary puts the keeper under pressure top of her box as Fullwood comes streaming in her kick charged down flies up, the bounce favouring Szary who is able to get it into her gloves before Fullwood can capitalise. Delglyn with Cullum through the middle plays the ball into Ely’s path as she breaks into the area left of the D, clipping a shot in towards goal rising, Szary batting it away well to concede the corner.

Cambridge City defender, Amy Reed (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  From the left the corner falling far post his defended by Mykhaylechko. Cafferelli across to challenge winning the ball as Fullwood and Ely link up on the left for Cambridge. Szary with another quality save at her near post tipping the ball over the bar, as Tolentino charging forwards on the right drives in a vicious rising shot. The corner from the left fizzed into the six yard box into Cullum’s chest, difficult to get under control before Newmarket scramble it away. 

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-0 Newmarket Town Women

  That the final action of an exciting 1st half. Cambridge going in with a 2-0 lead at the break. Scoring 2 quick fire goals midway through the 2nd half. Could have added more if not for some fine saves from Dominika Szary in the Newmarket goal. Newmarket holding their own against there higher league opponents have been forced back defending deep more often than not making it harder to counter but have soaked up alot of pressure, getting forwards with pace to create a few opportunities of their own none of them troubling Sarah Hudson in goal. A two goal lead at the break as is often the case in a cup tie the next goal could prove crucial.

Cambridge with a triple switch during the half-time interval, Stanley and Tomlinson back on along with Freya Goddard for Evans, Fullwood and Bodily. Newmarket getting the 2nd half underway. Look to play it long through the middle Hayes after it, Flye stepping out of defence the pair collide, Flye coming off the worse, it okay after a pause for treatment. Spiers attacking with the ball at her feet on the right pace her cross in cut out. 

Katie Walker and Freya Goddard battling for the ball (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Tolentino getting the ball into her feet on the right side for Cambridge driving on, twists and turns getting free to lift a cross on the angle into the six yard box Stanley central chesting it down taking it out to the right of goal turning into the shot charged down by Towler out for a corner kick.

GOAL! An early goal at the start of the 2nd half and it goes the way of Cambridge. From the resulting corner the ball is cleared long out to the left side, retrieved by Cambridge possession kept well played into the box from the top of the area, Szary coming for it, Stanley closing in taking the ball past her and slotting it into the bottom corner 3-0.

Grace Stanley scoring early in the 2nd half for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Sean Doyle)

 A huge blow to Newmarket at the start of the 2nd half, Cambridge showing there intent coming forwards with determination Tolentino right side looking for Stanley, won well by Smith. A free-kick won by Cambridge top of the D, a dangerous position, Stanley on it drags her attempt wide of the far post. Newmarket’s defence under pressure, Linger defending, the ball quickly won back a corner won on the right. Floated into the six yard box Cafferelli clearing to the left, put back in, the offside flag giving Newmarket some respite.

  Tolentino looking to drive on with the ball, Wayman stopping one attack, Tolentino is soon after her again into the corner squeezed a cross into the near post from the by line, Ely near post close on goal trying to turn it inside the post, Szary there to bat it away her defence clearing. Newmarket make their first change of the game Mykhaylechko coming off for Katie Webb. The substitute with a good tackle 25 yards out to regain possession right side Walker up with her, curling a shot from outside the box wide of the far post. 

Katie Webb with Cambridge City’s Lauren Tomlinson (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Working the ball into the box from a throw on their right Cambridge attack it near post a corner awarded. Defended at the near post cleared outside the box a shot from distance struck back in caught by Szary. Getting out of their half proving difficult for Newmarket Cambridge pressing to quick regain the ball. Newmarket with a 2nd change, Annabelle Herring on for Spiers with an hour played. A free-kick at the back for Cambridge, Cullum helping it on through to the top of the area, Towler does well defending for Newmarket as Stanley closes in.

 Tolentino winning a corner on the right, goes long out to the left a shot from distance on the angle driven wide across the face of goal. Cambridge with a double switch bring Rosie Mead on along with Gillies. A deep cross from the left finding Gillies free inside the box, she puts the ball into the back of the net the flag though is already up. Faith Entwhistle joins the action for Newmarket on for Smith. Cambridge strong in the 2nd half dominating play in the final 3rd.

GOAL! That pressure bringing them a 4th goal a corner on the right side played into the mix cleared at the far post falls to Goddard outside the box 25 yards out, wastes no time getting her shot away the ball rising towards goal, Szary stretching to reach it can’t get enough on it as the ball falls beyond over the goal line 4-0.

Freya Goddard congratulated by her teammates (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Few opportunities to get forwards for Newmarket so far in the 2nd half, getting the ball off a thro on the left Walker turns infield sending it out to Hayes on the right of the area, tries to punch her way through the Cambridge defence but too much traffic her progress halted. Cambridge come left winning a corner kick. The ball flighted into the six yard box turned down towards goal, defended well by the defender on the far post the ball skipping up off her foot into Szary’s gloves. 

 A fluid attack from Cambridge from back to front 4 one touch passes sending the ball on through to Gillies getting free on the right into the box a shot fired in low on the angle Szary down smartly to save push the ball away the the left. Tolentino on that side now getting hold of the ball wide curling a shot back in Szary can’t doing anything saved by base of her far post before being cleared.

Newmarket captain, Chloe Slater (photo credit Sean Doyle)

  Into the last 15 minutes another triple switch for Cambridge with Evans, Bodily and Fullwood all returning on for Mulheron, Flye and Stanley. Webb on the right looking to get past Evans sending the ball on for Hayes, Hudson able to claim it, play stopped with a player down on the far side. It’s Evans only just on can’t continue, Mulheron’s rest last all of a minute is sent back on. Evans unable to walk unaided with an ankle injury helped round the pitch. 82 minutes played.

GOAL! The changes opening up the game somewhat, Newmarket’s Slater closing the ball down well in the centre coming on before laying it through for Hayes moving left of the D, moving the ball on to get her shot away sends it low under Hudson to score 4-1.

A cup final goal for Newmarket’s Katie Hayes (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Hayes last action of the game however has picked up a side injury in the process of scoring the goal, with Mykhaylechko coming back on. Alex Milner on too. Cambridge get straight on the attack running down the right a dangerous ball whipped in across the face of goal, Linger with the clearance. Newmarket struggling to clear there lines as Cambridge come on with renewed vigour.

GOAL! Tomlinson getting up on the left to support Tolentino the full back taking the ball on into the corner swivelling well to lift a shot from a acute angle in over Szary to fall inside the goal at the far post 5-1.

Lauren Tomlinson adding a 5th for Cambridge City (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Walker getting onto the ball left side for Newmarket sends it on for Mykhaylechko inside the area, looks to shift inside make room for a shot but can’t shake off Mulheron the centre back tackling to clear the ball away to the left. A crossfield ball for Gillies on the right in cut out by Wayman, Fullwood though is quick to snatch the loose ball but attempting to return it to Gillies catches her offside. 

 Into stoppage time play spread Newmarket giving it a go late on Webb with support from Walker on the right whose angled cross lifted high into the box is claimed securely by Hudson. Caffarelli down having received a head injury but after treatment is okay to come back on. Cambridge with possession on the left see the game out  a shot from distance wide across the area.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 5-1 Newmarket Town Women

 A strong 2nd half performance from Cambridge in the 2nd half seeing them retain the Invitation Cup with a 5-1 over Newmarket. A two goal lead from the 1st half quickly extended early in the 2nd half with a 4th goal coming past the hour. Newmarket on the backfoot defended stoutly but struggled to get anything going in attack. A well won ball from Slater putting Hayes through on goal giving them the goal they deserved on the balance of play. Cambridge going on to add a 5th. Looked composed throughout getting players forwards using the flanks well and taking the game to Newmarket who can be proud of their performance in their first County Cup Final a great occasion, mistakes seeing Cambridge score, the defence battled hard throughout Szary with a number of quality saves to keep them in it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, and boy is this a tough one. Some great performances all over the park. Let’s begin with Newmarket can’t single out a single defender as they all put in a shift keeping Cambridge at bay. Dominika Szary with some great saves. Chloe Slater winning the ball in midfield looking to take the game forwards, Katie Spiers on the right a willing runner with pace offering a pass whenever Newmarket could break. All round it was a strong squad performance from Cambridge which will give them confidence going forwards. Bronwyn Mulheron was strong at the back didn’t give anything away. Ellie Cullum and Hannah Bodily prevented Newmarket getting out through the middle on several occasions. Used the flanks well particularly strong in the 2nd half, and a good portion of that dominance was down to Karly Tolentino with some forceful running on the ball creating a number of chances. This evenings Player of the Match.

  Congratulation to Cambridge City Women on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

 An enjoyable evening at the Abbey Stadium an entertaining final. My thanks to both sides with their help tonight along with that of the Cambridgeshire FA, Abbey Stadium staff and particularly, Chris Abbott much appreciated. Updated with photo’s courtesy of Sean Doyle again much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

 

Cup Final Special – Colney Heath Ladies v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 20th March

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final

At Letchworth’s County Ground this afternoon for the 1st cup final of the season. Back after a 2 season hiatus the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup. Plenty of massive fixtures across the region this weekend but this will see the 1st bit of silverware lifted with Colney Heath Ladies featuring in there first ever county cup final taking on Stevenage FC Women who have featured in every final covered by Women’s Football East to date.

  Covid of course the reason for the 2 season hiatus, but it’s great to see end of season showpieces returning with a busy schedule looming, (wouldn’t have it any other way). Hertfordshire usually the first of the county cup finals to be held getting underway back in September with 35 entrants. The finalists with contrasting history in the competition.

  Colney Heath Ladies reaching the County Cup Final for the 1st time. Promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division in 2017 have gone on to become an established side in the league. Youth at the heart of their development an influx of talent the season before last has seen the side push on this season and although Wymondham Town Ladies already have the title sown up the race for runners-up spot is very much on Colney Heath currently 6th just 4 points off 2nd with games in hand on all the sides above them. Was at the County Ground I first saw Colney heath play in their first ever final the ERWFL Plate, this their greatest achievement to date reaching the County Cup Final for the first time.

  Stevenage FC Women playing in the league above are in a battle to avoid the drop from FAWNL South East Division One. Now run by the Stevenage FC Foundation, the restructuring seeing quite alot of player movement along with a managerial change with Fadi Mazloum now managing the 1st team. With 4 sides likely to go down this season Stevenage were struggling for points 2nd bottom however a run of 3 wins from 4 against the sides down there with them has put them right back into contention to wrestle free of the drop zone and given them momentum and confidence at a crucial stage of the season. have dominated the County Cup in recent seasons. This now Stevenage’s home ground too with the County Ground their base although for today’s game they are the ‘away’ side.

Today’s prize

Road to the Final

A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Colney Heath were to take on Beds & Herts Division Three newcomers St Margaretsbury Women at home in the 2nd Round, a convincing win in the finish against a side who would go onto win their league, 13-0 with Lily Hall bagging a double hat-trick. Stevenage were at home to facing Beds & Herts Premier Division side Garston Ladies. Holly Greenwood with a brace amongst the goals in a 4-0 win.

Into the 3rd Round Colney Heath presented with a tricky tie away to ERWFL Division One South high flyers Cheshunt FC Women. Goals from Christina Freestone and Lucy Hancock seeing them edge the game 2-1 to progress to the last 8. Stevenage awarded an away win against Hitchin Town Women Canaries.

  Colney Heath at home to another Division One South side in the quarter finals taking on Wodson Park Ladies. A comfortable 4-0 victory putting them into the semi-finals. Stevenage at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women pushing for the title at that point, goals from Greenwood and Vicky Neal securing a 2-1 win to take them into the last 4.

  Coney Heath drawn to face cup holders Watford FC Women Development in the semi-finals, Sasha Manders firing them into an early lead. Grainne Kellet later on doubling the advantage to send Colney Heath into their first ever County Cup Final. Stevenage away to Bed & Herts Premier Division side Oaklands Wolves Ladies 4 divisions between the sides Stevenage were comfortable winners. Paige Pryor netting a brace with a foal each for Greenwood, Dionne Manning, Vicky Neal and Lucy Webster to take them into another final.

  Been a while since I’ve ventured to the County Ground, in Letchworth home of Hertfordshire FA. Today themselves launching a pledge to level up the gulf that still exists between the numbers of men and women registered to play the game within the county. Stevenage themselves amongst a growing number of clubs supporting the #HerGameToo initiative to tackle sexism within the game.

Stevenage supporting the #HerGameToo initiative

The ground with some redevelopment in recent seasons a new artificial playing surface, overlooked by the large main seated stand with terracing around the ground. The cafe/clubhouse upgraded too. The pitch a decent size, a great day for the final bright and sunny with no chance of rain as we enter spring. The sun low behind one goal may well cause issues during the game. 

Colney Heath Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Naomi Swift, Ella Holmes, Lucy Hancock (C), Kelly Hancock, Sofia Santangelo, Lauren Appleby, Esme Hume, Grainne Kellet, Tia Steadman, Sasha Manders & Terri Harvey. Subs – Lily Hall, Lilly Nellis, Daniela Monastero, Melissa Godino & Annie Hickey.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Kate French, Lucy Webster (C), Chloe Gunn, Vicky Neal, Holly Greenwood, Shianne Swarres, Jodie Southby, Jodie Bellinger, Emily Schofield & Amy Makewell. Subs – Poppy Bennett, Stef Paci, Dionne manning, Ailish Straver & Paige Pryor.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Ex-Arsenal and England player Sian Williams the guest of honour for today’s final, introduced to the teams before kick-off. A great sized crowd gathered around the ground for the match. It’s Stevenage to get this season’s County Cup Final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing red and white shirts with red shorts and socks. Attacking into the sun with Coney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. The ball clipped long out to the right wing Colney Heath defending seeing the ball out safely for a goal kick.

Kate French bringing the ball on into space on the left for Stevenage plays the pass into central midfield for Shianne Swarres, she in turn sweeps a diagonal ball out to the right with Jodie Bellinger bombing on, Colney Heath captain Lucy Hancock over on that side regaining possession. Colney Heath sitting back inviting Stevenage on somewhat in the early exchanges Kelly Hancock challenging for the ball lifted into Amy Makewell outside the D, spring a counter attack the ball fed out to Sasha Manders over on the left travelling on into the corner wrapping her foot around the cross lifting a high ball into the box is taken high by Stevenage goalkeeper, Tea Oldroyd inside her six yard box.

  Esme Hume nipping in to win the ball inside her own half lifting the ball forwards quickly for Terri Harvey to go after, Chloe Gunn  getting to the bouncing ball first to clear at the back for Stevenage. Grainne Kellet exploiting a gap on the right to run into taking the ball on for Colney Heath, doesn’t get far as Vicky Neal racing across to cover the ground puts in a strong tackle to send the ball out for a throw. A long throw put into the box from the right by Colney Heath bouncing up over Harvey at the near post, Oldroyd grabbing it into her gloves beyond.

Grainne Kellet bringing the ball on for Colney Heath

    Tentative start overall Stevenage allowed to come on with the ball Colney Heath deep keeping compact not easy to break down. Colney Heath’s, Kelly Hancock across to tackle Amy Makewell as she moves into the left channel looking to provide the passing option for Holly Greenwood winning the ball back in central midfield. Swarres is proving a formidable barrier in midfield for Colney heath to bypass, more often than not the beginnings of an attack is snuffed out by the central midfielder with Jodie Bellinger an Southby looking to provide options left and right to keep the pressure inside their opponents half. 

  French moving left with the ball spreads play diagonally out to the right Southby, tackled, Colney Heath look to counter Manders taking the ball up the line Swarres moving in quickly to tackle keep the pressure on down the right side Stevenage winning a corner kick. Players up from the back the ball in near side headed out of the area away to the right Swarres getting hold of it with support from Neal looking to work and opening, Kelly Hancock getting the tackle in Holly Greenwood onto the loose ball attempts to battle through the defence the box too congested no way through.

Esme Hume with the ball on the right helping to break up a Stevenage attack sets up a counter mover feeding the ball on for Grainne Kellet out on the flank, travels a long way with the ball holding off a challenge to get down to the by-line and fire a low cross in towards the near post met by Terri Harvey six yards out turns the ball goalwards, Oldroyd is right behind it to make the save. Colney Heath are compact making it a challenge to drive through the middle space available out with the full backs able to come on a corner won on the left. 

  An inswinging delivery to the near post the defensive header sending it out to the right side well beyond the far post, falling to Emily Schofield she shoots on the angel the ball looping towards goal. Colney Heath goalkeeper Naomi Swift back-peddling to reach it with a good save to glove the ball away to safety taking a knock in the process, play stopped so she can receive treatment. Colney Heath with a free-kick on the right out to Hume on the wing forwards her cross driven into Harvey arriving top of the area right of the D, Swarres rushing back sliding it with a strong challenge to win the ball.

  Is a close contest, Stevenage with more of the ball able to come on Coney Heath soaking up pressure. Schofield moving out to the right taking the ball on from Bellinger drives on with the ball at her feet lets fly from the angle her shot fired in across the face of goal wide, Southby closing in can’t quite reach it to deflect in at the far post. Swarres sliding in to halt another Colney Heath advance, lifting the ball over to Bellinger on the right, the flag up however ha strayed offside. Hume putting the ball on into Harvey up top for Colney Heath combines with Tia Steadman looking to release Manders on the left in behind the pass short intercepted by Gunn.

Stevenage midfielder, Shianne Swarres

  Swarres winning the ball 25 yards out threads it through the defence, Schofield breaking clear into the box, Swift advancing it lay claim to the ball first. Amy Makewell with a strike from outside the D moments later, held by the Colney Heath keeper. Hume charging down Greenwood’s attempted cross as the gathers the ball from a throw on the left. French forwards on the left inside to Swarres some 35 yards out time and space to line up a shot sent in on target but at a comfortable height for Swift to catch. 

Colney Heath’s Sasha Manders

 Colney Heath competing for the ball well enough but deep back defending there box getting out in numbers is proving difficult, Stevenage regaining possession coming straight back at them, Bellinger over on the left now going in to challenge for the ball deflects favourably to let her run in behind. Towards the area turns inside looking for an opening to shoot, Colney heath captain, Lucy Hancock closing in to make a great tackle to thwart her. Kelly Hancock in turn out to tackle Bellinger, Hume taking up possession on for Kellet on the wing a race with French, the full back getting across her to roll the ball back to her keeper to clear.

   GOAL! Midway through the 1st half and Stevenage’s pressure brings the opening goal attacking on the left the ball at Bellinger’s feet she drills a great ball across the six yard box with Schofield wriggling free to connect and turn the ball past Swift into the back of the net 0-1.

Emily Schofield fires Stevenage into the lead

  Changes then for both sides, Dionne Manning coming on for Stevenage, Melissa Godino for Colney Heath replacing Appleby. Kellet has pace out right for Colney Heath looks to travel with the ball whenever she can, French needing to stay alert getting back on her to lunge in to tackle. A free-kick won for Stevenage wide right top of the area the ball lifted in near side headed out to the top of the D put back inside Kellet heading it away, falling to Gunn who sends a curling diagonal ball back into the far post Colney Heath in again to win the defensive header clearing the threat.

Colney Heath’s Melissa Godino

Godino taking the ball on through the centre for Colney Heath has Manders moving into space over on the right picking her out French closes her down challenging to regain possession unfairly however Colney Heath with the free-kick. The ball into the box comfortably defended by Stevenage. Colney Heath with a 2nd change, Lily Hall on for Steadman. Webster advancing on the right for Stevenage with the diagonal pass inside for Schofield right of the D turns into the shot a low effort gathered by Swift back on her line. Swarres moving on through the middle with the ball unleashing a shot from 20 yards out right side of the D runs wide of the far post. 

  Stef Paci a recent signing for Stevenage from London bees comes on replacing Greenwood in the midfield. Makewell battling for control of the ball 25 yards out squeezes it through to Schofield top of the D, shifts to shoot pulling her strike narrowly wide of the right post. Colney Heath working the ball into their attackers, Harvey and Manders linking well in the middle rolled back to Godino who in turn sweeps a pass out to Ella Holmes free on the right getting into the box takes on the shot the ball angled low into the keeper at the near post. Hall running on with the ball top of the area her shot blocked by Gunn. 

  Kelly Hancock fouls Makewell as she tries to get the ball under control as it is cleared up to her from the back, the free-kick to the right. Makewell with Webster on the right the cross fire into the middle of the box Manning can’t get it down onto her feet before the ball is scramble away to safety. Colney Heath getting players further forwards late in the 1st half are hit on the counter with Bellinger coming away with the ball on the left. Plays in diagonal pass inside looking to pick Schofield, Kelly Hancock intercepting for Colney Heath. 

Stevenage’s Dionne Manning with Colney Heath’s Daniela Monastero

  Holmes central with space in midfield plays the ball on for Manders on the right of attack, shifts inside before taking on the strike top of the are, swerving through the air but doesn’t cause Oldroyd any problems. Into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Colney heath coming forwards left side the cross turned away to the right for a throw in, another long delivery in the box, bouncing Oldroyd claiming it high.

Half-time Colney heath Ladies 0-1 Stevenage FC Women

  A narrow 1-0 lead for Stevenage at the break, scored midway through the half by Emily Schofield. Colney Heath soaking up alot of pressure defending deep at time wanting to be hard to break down has allowed Stevenage to come on at will at times their full backs joining the attack whilst the midfield, Swarres in particular have prevented Colney heath getting the ball out up to their attacking players. Chances created without the keeper being overly tested, Stevenage will want to be more clinical 2nd half. Defending well Colney Heath will have to come out more 2nd half if they want to score and with 1 goal in it still all to play for.

  With roll on roll off substitutes it’s not always easy to keep track of who is on and who is off. Stevenage appear unchanged with Annie Hickey on at the back for Colney heath who get the 2nd half underway defending with the low sun in their eyes. Played out to the back Stevenage in quickly to pressure the ball, Paci out to Manning moving right her cross met by Schofield at the near post, takes a deflection as it runs wide of the post for a corner. Players up into the box the delivery from the right turned on to the left Gunn outside the area hooking it back in towards the near post Neal getting something on it heading the ball over the defence claimed by Swift beyond.

   Manders is fouled trying to get forwards for Colney Heath on the left side no advantage play brought back. The game looking more open now Colney Heath looking to get players into advanced positions take the attack to Stevenage. Swarres in the middle out to Bellinger on the left side runs into traffic forced back play spread to Webster right on up the line for Manning her cross angled in to the area headed clear by Hickey. 

Colney Heath’s Annie Hickey

Hickey then out of the area to charge down Swarres as she bursts forwards from midfield. Harvey moving out to the right for Colney Heath sending a cross long through the six yard box. Kellet back on the right for Colney Heath getting on with the ball cutting it back into Manders top of the box, is closed down quickly by the Stevenage defence. A different feel to the 2n half more open as Colney heath look to apply some pressure in the final 3rd. Paci turning on the ball centrally clipping a diagonal ball out to Manning on the right her cross dipping in front of goal headed away by Hickey. 

  Colney Heath break left side Hall bursting forwards her low cross for Harvey inside the are Oldroyd comes sliding out Harvey nicking it beyond her, caught by the keepers trailing leg, can’t get to the ball before it is cleared to safety, looked a good shout for a penalty but no one appeals play goes on. Stevenage making a change on the hour breaking on Paige Pryor up top for Makewell. Daniela Monastero on in midfield for Colney Heath moving on with the ball covering alot of ground before Neal moves out to close her down.

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

  Kellett right side plays the ball inside to Steadman free for a moment top of the area turns into the shot no power behind her strike however as it rolls harmlessly through to Oldroyd. Gunn holding off Hall at the back seeing the ball safely back to her keeper to clear. Harvey taking on the Stevenage defence looking to plough her way through into the area, Neal across her though shielding the ball well back to Oldroyd. 

Chloe Gunn winning the ball for Stevenage

 Pryor looks to be in on goal left of the D bringing a cross down from the wing, Lucy Hancock getting back on her well to deny the chance, Swift down to smother the ball as Manning goes in for it. Changes around as Southby returns for Stevenage along with Ailish Straver replacing Bellinger and Swarres. Appleby returning to the pitch for Colney Heath. Pryor nips in to steal a misplaced pass at the back from Colney heath on the left side 25 yards out takes on the shot angled in low saved by Swift at her near post. 

Colney Heath captain, Lucy Hancock

  Colney Heath gaining momentum feeling they can get themselves back on level terms risking leaving gaps at the back. Manders on the left space to take the ball into her cross won by Straver. The ball bouncing through the middle Neal finding herself under pressure between two Colney Heath attackers isn’t fazed dealing with the threat comfortably. Godino winning the ball in midfield into Steadman, turns into traffic the ball lost. Poppy Bennett coming on for Stevenage replacing Schofield with game moving into the final 20 minutes. 

Vicky Neal winning the challenge for Stevenage

Pryor moving across the top of the D left to right for Stevenage blazes a shot over the crossbar. The game stretched players tiring, the ball played into Manning top of the D spins it out to French clear on the right, Lucy Hancock recovering to slide in pressuring the ball back with her keeper. Stevenage pushing on looking to stretch Colney Heath at the back.

 GOAL! On 75 minutes Stevenage score a crucial 2nd goal, the ball put into Manning’s feet back to goal 25 yards out sees French breaking on her left, the ball rolled out to her right of goal she checks inside to strike a left footed shots around the keeper into the corner of the net 0-2.

Kate French doubles Stevenage’s lead

 Colney Heath with a series of changes Santangelo amongst those back on as Monastero plays the ball on for Harvey the cross in long Hall on the far side retrieving it on the by-line scooping a dangerous cross in near post, Steadman there close in on goal with Oldroyd, the keeper under some pressure bating it away before being cleared. French off for Stevenage, Makewell back on. Lilly Nellis on for Colney Heath for Steadman who has picked up a knock. 

GOAL! Stevenage go on to extend their lead late on the game a blow for Colney Heath, their opponents coming down the left the ball played into the middle for Makewell right over the D bringing the ball down carry’s it in field into Straver who strikes the ball in towards goal a fantastic strike to lob the keeper from outside the box fly in under the crossbar 0-3.

Ailish Straver making in 3-0 to Stevenage

  Stevenage scoring two quick goals late in the game taking control of the final. A free-kick won in front of the centre circle Gunn on it goes for goal her effort bouncing wide of the post. Hall on the drive with the ball for Colney Heath on the left whips in a cross far post, Bennett rising to head it away for Stevenage. 

GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes Monastero is fouled for Colney heath 25 yards out to the left of the Stevenage goal. Manders placing the ball down to take the set-piece. Takes on the strike is hit well sent up over the wall, to dip beyond beating Oldroyd rising on her line to drop under the bar and in 1-3.

Sasha Manders scoring from a superb free-kick

  Is there to be late drama in the game the tie going to penalties if the scores were to be level at full time. Stevenage though are an experienced side now comes down to ball management, Colney Heath looking to press the ball leaving gaps all over the pitch. Manning and Paci winning challenges in the middle the play spread. Neal and Gunn keeping it tight through the middle. Greenwood back on for Straver in the closing minutes. Kellett for Godino for Colney Heath. 

 Gunn playing the ball onto Greenwood eft of the D digging a shot out of her feet the dipping effort held by Swift. Space on the right Webster forwards crossing into the area the ball cleared turned back in cleared out to Greenwood top of the D lashes a shot in Swift up doesn’t get it as it comes crashing down off the crossbar before being scramble clear. Stevenage with the ball as 4 minutes of stoppage time is signalled. Colney Heath can’t find any meaningful possession in the closing moments Stevenage readily winning the ball back celebrate as the final whistle blows.

Full time Colney Heath Ladies 1-3 Stevenage FC Women

  Stevenage winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup for a 4th time beating Colney Heath 3-1. A game of two halves with Colney Heath soaking up alot of pressure 1st half allowing Stevenage to come on keeping it tight difficult to break down going in trailing by just a single goal. Was a more open 2nd half chances created for both sides, Stevenage scoring a quick double inside the final 15 minutes to take control of the game. 3-0 though harsh on Colney Heath a battling display getting a goal back to make it 3-1 a fine free-kick from Sasha Manders. Stevenage though were in no mood to throw it all away and kept the ball well to see out the closing stages coming close to adding to their score line. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. One player standing out a few performances of note to mention first though. For Colney Heath, Kelly Hancock was strong in defence with a number of tackles and interceptions. Sasha Manders out wide looking to take the ball on create openings up front scoring a superb free-kick. Esme Hume at just 16 years of age impressing too. For Stevenage Vicky Neal was solid and composed at the back unfazed and reading and dealing with threats. Up top Emily Schofield was strong getting into some great positions opening the scoring. The award today though goes to midfielder Shianne Swarres, broke up play on numerous occasions Colney Heath often seeing an attack broken up before it had begun. Used the ball well spreading the ball out to the flanks.

 Congratulations to Stevenage FC Women on winning this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup.

  Great to see a final back at the County Ground the first of many to report upon this season back to it on Tuesday night at the Abbey Stadium for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final between Cambridge City Ladies and Newmarket Tow Ladies. An enjoyable first final of the season to watch in front of a strong crowd. My thanks to Hertfordshire FA for there help today and both sides for the team details much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – East Bergholt United Ladies v Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

Sunday 13th March

ERWFL League Plate

 A trip down into Suffolk this afternoon to watch a match from the quarter Finals of the ERWFL Plate with East Bergholt United Ladies taking on Whittlesey Athletic Ladies for a place in the last 4 of the competition. 

  The ERWFL Plate contested between the Division One, North and South sides within the regional set-up taking place after rounds one and two of the League Cup have been completed. 

 Haven’t seen East Bergholt United Ladies in a while, not since joining the ERWFL  in fact back in 2019. Prior to that enjoyed a couple of very successive seasons in the Suffolk Women’s County League, back to back league and cup doubles in 2017/18 and 2018/19. A  strong youth set-up within the club it was a natural progression to take the women’s side up into the regional setup test themselves at a higher level. Of course we know what happened next 2 null and void seasons heavily affecting development throughout the pyramid. 2021/22 being much more settled and likely to go the distance now with some finals to look forwards too.

  East Bergholt United Ladies put into a strong Division One South this season with 9 sides completing have struggled for results 4 straight defeats to start the season, before recording victories over Billericay Town Ladies Development and Wodson Park Ladies. Another lean spell over Christmas however 4 points won in their previous two matches have moved East Bergholt clear of the bottom two giving them some momentum coming into today’s cup fixture. Elena Nitsche their top scorer with 13 so far from 9 played. Received a bye into the quarter finals.

  Taking my first look at Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Newcomers to the ERWFL having joined with the intake of new sides this season after the promotion pool was widened to allow more clubs to enter regional football. A new side altogether making their debut the season before in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, having formerly been ICA Sports Ladies U18s side. A strong start to the season one of the few league to complete it’s fixtures after the various lockdowns finished in 6th position. Close to Peterborough, the club joining the ERWFL Division One North featuring 7 sides. Opening the season with a 3-3 draw with eventual champions Needham Market Women. Have been involved in a tight contest for the mid-table spots throughout recent results seeing them slip to 2nd bottom with 2 matches will be look to gain a place or two.

 Involved the 2 more cup competitions have semi final in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup to look forwards too next weekend. In the ERWFL League Plate progressed to the quarter finals with a 2-0 away victory over Division One South side Wodson Park Ladies, with goals from Chelsea Burr and Holley Ross. Burr and fellow striker Annie Posnett scoring the bulk of Whittlesey’s goal this season with 28 between them, Burr scoring 13 from 12 played whilst Posnett has 15 goals from 11 appearances.

East Bergholt Sports Ground the venue for today’s match, the sports ground accommodating, bowls, cricket, football and tennis. Home of East Bergholt United FC’s adult and youth sides. The pavilion/clubhouse overlooking the grassed sports pitches. Well used today’s playing pitch offering good width, a strong breeze blowing across the ground with unfortunately rain forecast. Set-up with my back to it hoping the wind would calm enough for the umbrella to go up and I could perform my usual juggling act between that the camera and notepad.

East Bergholt United Ladies

 East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Zoe Adams, Jess Clarke, Katie Bruce, Deban Howlett (C), Jell Gill, Millie Wilding, Megan Partridge, Stacey Desborough, Kira Wealls, Jess Quinsee & Vic Hall. Sub – Shannon Cameron.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  Whittlesey Athletic Ladies starting XI – Danni King, Brooke Harley, Lauren Mapleston, Lauren Fort, Sophie Ellen, Maddison Moore, Hannah Murphy (C), Holley Ross, Hannah Johnson, Aliyah Palmer & Chelsea Burr. Subs – Megan Mapleston & Grace Spencer.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both Elena Nitsche and Annie Posnett missing for both sides this afternoon, East Bergholt naming just the one substitute. Whittlesey with 2 on the bench and a change of keeper following the sending off of regular keeper, Milena Vygovskaja last time out serving a one game ban in between the sticks for today’s game is outfield player Danni King. The rain beginning to fall steadily a kick-off approaches the wind dying somewhat. East Bergholt to kick-off the first half wearing green shirts with black trim, black shorts and socks with Whittlesey lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. The ball played back to captain Deban Howlett on central defence she sprays the ball out to the right looking for Kira Wealls, Holley Ross tackling for Whittlesey her pass sent long out to Aliyah Palmer over on the right in attack, Jess Clarke forcing her wide for East Bergholt the full back seeing the ball out for a throw in.

Both sides looking to get the ball out into the wide areas early on Clarke in again to deny Palmer as she looks to take the ball on down the right, East Bergholt playing the ball crossfield into Wealls, Lauren Mapleston at left back in to close her down for Whittlesey. With players drawn to the right, Mapleston has space to run into as the ball pops free out to her travels with it before Chelsea Burr up top provides the passing option drifting out into the left channel taking the ball on to the by-line whips a cross looping into the six yard box, East Bergholt keeper, Zoe Adams able to claim it unopposed.

East Bergholt captain, Deban Howlett with Whittlesey attacker, Chelsea Burr

  Howlett with a timely interception at the back, needed as Ross nips in to steal the ball centrally lifts it forwards for Palmer. A free-kick for East Bergholt in the middle played out to Clarke on the left powers on before laying it into the path of Jess Quinsee the attacker taking the ball down the left wing, whipping a cross into the six yard box caught cleanly by King in the Whittlesey goal. Whittlesey captain Hannah Murphy in to win the ball in the middle, linking with Ross the ball played forwards bouncing in front of Howlett a tricky one for the defender to deal with, with Burr chasing, experienced though composure to play the ball and clear. 

Holley Ross with the ball for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  Burr looking to take on the East Bergholt defence as play is turned around in the middle Palmer racing on with it right channel Burr moving to that side the ball rolled into her path lets fly from outside the box, her shot racing wide of the right post. East Bergholt attack on the right Wealls winning a throw high up the pitch, Vic Hall coming to head the ball on central top of the D into Quinsee she is upended the hosts awarded a free-kick. Quinsee over the ball 20 yards out right of the goal, the shot bouncing up in front of the keeper, King adjusting well to knock it away to her right allowing her defence to clear. 

   East Bergholt gaining some momentum in attack, Whittlesey switching off a little presenting the ball back to the hosts as they press the advantage out on the right the ball fired in central, Stacey Desborough playing it out to the left, Clarke advancing striking from distance her effort wide across goal. Playing 3 up front East Bergholt are looking for Wealls and Quinsee to provide width left and right, keeping Whittlesey’s full backs penned back. Desborough finds herself free on the right looking to drive forwards, Ross gets back on her to defend for Whittlesey the ball not cleared as Hall and Millie Wilding regain possession 25 yards out the shot from distance struck wide of the far post. 

Millie Wilding taking a shot for East Bergholt

  Clarke over on the left with a set-piece players up into the area for East Bergholt the ball floated in central, Howlett twisting as she heads the ball down towards goal, King right behind it able to collect on the bounce without challenge. East Bergholt pushing hard Megan Partridge on the ball central forwards for Quinsee her touch left taking her into the area on the angle wraps her foot around the ball a rising shot powerful smashes down off the cross bar bouncing before Quinsee as King comes to close stoops to head the ball from close range places it wide of the near post. 

 Up the other end Burr is working hard agianst the East Bergholt defence but is often forced wide, players not getting close to support. Desborough plays the ball out to Hall on the right going on her cross is lifted into towards the top of the area, defended by Whittlesey’s Lauren Fort, half hearted appeals for handball from East Bergholt but play continues. Ross with a strong tackle in the middle gets the ball out to Burr peeling left her crossed ball dropping for Palmer to drive at the East Bergholt box, she is denied by Jess Gill’s well timed tackle at the back.

Chelsea Burr holding off East Bergholt’s Katie Bruce

  A double save of sorts from King in the Whittlesey goal as East Bergholt running on with the ball through the middle let fly with a strike from distance angling in King leaps but can’t get there the ball though smashing against the crossbar for a 2nd time for the hosts dropping down hitting King on her backside as she lands pushing it out to the right, King quickly to her feet as Wealls comes surging in to smash the lose ball goalwards from six yards out on the angle, King saving with her gloves palming the ball away.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies goalkeeper, Danni King

   Whittlesey definitely on the back foot errors at the back giving the ball back to East Bergholt the hosts buoyed as they press forwards, risk getting hit on the counter with Ross winning it back centrally putting it through for Burr taking on the strike on the right 20 yards out putting the ball over Adams crossbar. Ross and Murphy battling for the ball in the middle, Ross right on for Burr, Adams is quickly off her line out to the top of her area to deal with the threat for East Bergholt. 

East Bergholt’s Jess Clarke

  Palmer taking the ball on down the right side for Whittlesey 20 yards out cutting the pass inside for Burr, a cleaver back heel to wrong foot her marker turning into the shot her attempt straight at the keeper a straight forward save for Adams. The rain has stopped the umbrella abandoned which is just aswell as this is a thoroughly enthralling contest. Palmer twisting away right side on the ball squares it inside for Burr, Katie Bruce moving in to support Howlett, the Whittlesey striker finding no way through. 

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Aliyah Palmer

  Partridge putting the pass out to Wealls racing clear on the right in behind taking the ball down the line whips a fantastic ball in across the six yard box, Quinsee flying in with an outstretched leg at the far post can’t quite reach it to turn it home. A great touch at the back from Whittlesey defender Sophie Ellen to control and clear inside her box as Howlett up the opposite end plays a dangerous ball forwards as she clears the ball. 

 Palmer on the right playing the ball over to Murphy in space on the left sends it forwards for Burr the striker taking the ball into the corner keeping possession well before digging out a looping cross into the box. Caught by Adams. Hall sends the ball out to Bruce on the right as she bombs forwards sending a high ball into the area looking for Wealls, too close to King though the keeper able to claim the ball. Bruce is replaced then as East Bergholt make there first change bringing on Shannon Cameron a straight swap at right back. 

East Bergholt’s Kira Wealls with Whittlesey’s Lauren Mapleston

  Whittlesey much more composed now taking the game to East Bergholt defending a high line Ellen chests the ball down on halfway then plays it on for Burr peeling away into the left channel on into the area striking the shot on the angle over the bar. Play back and forth, East Bergholt finding Hall over on the right in the corner holds the ball up then turns to deliver a cross into the box, turned goalwards straight into King’s gloves however. Murphy in to win the ball centrally strong moves to the right on for Palmer goes on before firing an angled shot in along the ground held by Adams down at her near post.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Maddison Moore

  East Bergholt winning the ball back on the left spray it diagonally forwards with Wealls clear of her marker right of the D. waiting for the ball to come across her to strike it takes a wicked bobble before her seeing Wealls catch it with the underside of her boot scuffing her shot harmlessly wide. A pause in play with Wilding having taken a knock for East Bergholt, okay after treatment Whittlesey make a change bringing Megan Mapleston on for Harley, Hannah Johnson moving to right back.

  GOAL! The deadlock is broken late in the first half, Whittlesey with possession in the 41st minute a good triangle between Lauren Mapleston, Ross and Murphy on the left Murphy feeding the ball on for Burr pulling free on the left drives forwards players bomb on in support. Taking the ball on Burr whips an angled shot in towards goal, dipping Adams gets up well to get a glove on the ball turn it down away to her left, unfortunate as Clarke goes to clear it she slips, Murphy arriving has the composure to get her foot up over the ball lift it over the defender and into the goal beyond 0-1.

Captain Hannah Murphy putting Whittlesey into the lead

  East Bergholt press the ball from the restart Wilding with Partridge on for Quinsee, Fort into defend for Whittlesey. The visitors break on the right Palmer racing forwards with the ball releasing an early strike angled in low, Adams down smartly with a fingertip save to deflect the ball wide of her far post. A corner on the left set in across the six yard box met by Palmer turned low towards goal, Adams saving back on her line. 

  Wealls and Quinsee switching flanks late in the first half the later over on the right now looking to take the ball on down the line tackled by Lauren Mapleston for a throw in the corner. East Bergholt work in a dangerous cross from the throw in near side spilt by King, Johnson able to scramble it to safety at the far post. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the 1st half Ros putting the ball out to Burr moving left, Cameron defending well for East Bergholt. Burr strong on the ball checks inside from the left firing a ball across the top of the East Bergholt area Ross closing in right of the D, a vital interception from Gill to stop her stealing through on goal. 

Half-time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  An entertaining first half draws to a close with Whittlesey Athletic Ladies holding a narrow 1-0 lead over east Bergholt United Ladies. Could have easily been the other way around with East Bergholt carving out a number of good opportunities in attack striking the crossbar twice. Playing three up top taking the game to Whittlesey the visitors switching off putting themselves under pressure still a threat on the counter attack, Burr working hard up top if lacking support at times. Whittlesey held out however and finding some good passages of play created chances to going on to take the lead late in the first half. The game still very much open as the teams emerge from the changing rooms hoping the rain will stay away for the 2nd half, extra-time and penalties if required.

  No changes for Whittlesey. East Bergholt making a switch, Bruce back on in the middle for Hall with Desborough moving forwards to join Wealls and Quinsee in attack. Whittlesey to get the 2nd half underway. The ball out to the right won by Quinsee for East Bergholt, back to Clarke she attempts to play the ball over the top, Whittlesey recovering in defence to clear the ball. Cameron right side bringing the ball forwards playing it inside for Desborough outside the area right of the D, Ellen in to close her down defending for Whittlesey. 

  The hosts looking to take the game to Whittlesey straight from the off Wilding winning it centrally with Bruce on for Desborough again closely watched by Ellen. Burr still leading the attack for the visitors, closely monitored by Gill on halfway stopping her getting in behind. Palmer over on the left twists inside travelling towards the box, Howlett stepping out to challenge winning the tackle. Murphy busy in the centre battling for possession for Whittlesey finds Burr on halfway lays it on for Ross getting forwards with Palmer on the left, taking the ball on Cameron comes to close her down well for East Bergholt. 

East Bergholt’s Katie Bruce

  East Bergholt are intent on pushing players on pressing Whittlesey on the ball inside their own half. Wealls on for Desborough shifting right her cross in not collected by King dropping loose inside the six yard box is scrambled away to safety. Quinsee on the left receiving the ball steals on into the area after the ball, Ellen getting across in the nick of time to slide in take the ball. Murphy in strong to regain possession support from Moore, then Ross out to Burr left of the area her cross back along the 18 yard line, cleared by Clarke with Palmer stretching for it.

 Ross comes off then as Whittlesey make a change looking to match East Bergholt with 3 up top, Grace Spencer on to join Palmer and Burr off comes Ross. Quinsee with the through ball to set Desborough away, just too much on it allowing King to claim it first. Whittlesey unsettled making mistakes as East Bergholt press. The hosts push on the right Wealls in her cut back to the top of the area missed before Partridge plays Desborough through on goal right side in the box, King coming sliding in the ball there to be won Desborough goes to ground sliding in catching King as she sees the ball into her midriff. The King down a pause on play as she recieves treatment. Looks to be a leg injury is up gingerly is okay to continue as Ross returns to the action for the visitors replacing Moore.

Stacey Desborough attacking for East Bergholt

  Howlett winning the ball at the back for East Bergholt her clearance finding Wealls out on the right takes the ball on down the flank whipping a good ball in near post, Desborough running in twists to try and connect her header, is taken well by King nonetheless. Clarke able to travel with the ball on the left for East Bergholt lifted on for Quinsee powers forwards to the by-line before lifting a cross into the near post Fort getting there before Desborough. Midway through the 2nd half and East Bergholt are knocking on the door as they search for an equaliser, Whittlesey’s defence standing firm.

  East Bergholt keep coming forwards, Clarke left inside for Wilding onto Bruce played out to Partridge right she shot from 25 yards out charged down by Ellen. Wilding with a shot from distance 30 yards plus, King with a faint touch taking it wide a corner on the right. Played in near side defended by Ross out for a 2nd corner. The 2nd delivery angled in near post Gill attacking it putting the ball wide for a goal kick.

Holley Ross looking for a pass for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

   Wealls on the right with an angled shot driven in low from 25 yards out collected safely by King at her near post. East Bergholt on top piling forwards at will Whittlesey battling hard at the back unable to get any meaningful possession up top. Spencer moving out to the left to receive a pass from Murphy is tackled by Cameron at the back for East Bergholt. The visitors could do with another goal to take the pressure off Burr continuing to cause problems in attack getting hold of the ball from a throw in on the right outside the D unleashing a low strike put straight at Adams back on her line. 

Megan Mapleston

  Partridge playing the ball on for Desborough going left for East Bergholt taking the ball on to the by line lifts a cross into the box, no one attacking it as King catches the ball high. Palmer comes off for Whittlesey with Moore coming back on. Partridge brought down outside the box right side a free-kick won. The shot sent over the bar. East Bergholt are getting crosses into the Whittlesey box but all too often no one is there to attack them the perfect cross coming in from the right is put on a plate in front of goal six yards out but frustratingly the opportunity goes begging the ball missed. 

Jess Gill defending for East Bergholt

  East Bergholt keep coming, King with a magnificent double save to keep Whittlesey’s lead intact as Clarke free on the left comes on with the ball angling a dipping shot in towards the top corner King get up stretching to push the ball away to her left dropping beyond the far post the ball attacked blasted back in the keeper reacts to blocking to save the shot at close range!

Danni King with a brilliant double save for Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  The game moving into the final 5 minutes has been all East Bergholt 2nd half but still no way through Whittlesey fighting to retain their advantage. The sun even trying to make an appearance late in the afternoon, as East Bergholt win a throw high up the pitch, Gill up to take a long one on for Desborough who has caused the Whittlesey defence a few issues, not this time as Johnson tackles to take the ball away from her. 

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, Hannah Johnson

 Pushing up the break still remains a threat as Whittlesey clear up to Ross central on for Burr in the middle, Cameron holding her up well forcing her wide as numbers get back to defend. Burr doing well however to win a free-kick out wide. Players come forwards, Ellen no able to get it under control before Clarke nips in to clear to the right. Murphy after the ball sends her cross/shot onto the roof of the net. Whittlesey are a very young side and they don’t as a rule run the ball into the corner to run down the clock. Burr clipping in a shot from the left saved by Adams as Ross snatches it back in the middle. 

  Into a very nervy stoppage time, East Bergholt doing all they can to win it going to 3 at the back late on with Gill pushed up into attack. Whittlesey have everyone back to defending no gaps to exploit Fort charging the ball down as it is played in across the top of the area before it is scrambled away to the right. The final whistle blows and Whittlesey win an enthralling cup tie by a single goal to move into the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Plate.

Full time East Bergholt United Ladies 0-1 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies 

  A thoroughly entertaining game in the finish won by Hannah Murphy’s goal scored late in the 1st half for Whittlesey. The visitors with a long trip home having another semi-final contest to look forwards too. Were made to work hard for the victory by the hosts as East Bergholt dominated the attacking play 2nd half taking the game to there opponents could find no way through however with Danni King pulling off a fantastic double save late on. A find effort from East Bergholt nonetheless who should be heartened by the number of chances they created if bitterly disappointed to come away with a defeat. Whittlesey had to battle to keep their clean sheet intact and were in need of a 2nd goal just couldn’t get enough of the ball in the final 3rd to get their attackers into the game. A great contest especially for the neutral.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A number of performances of note to mention first. Starting with East Bergholt, Stacey Desborough good in midfield 1st half, posed a great many problems for the Whittlesey defence joining the attack 2nd half. Out on the flanks both Jess Quinsee and Kira Wealls make some great attacking runs and created a chances both on another day would have been celebrating a goal. For Whittlesey, Hannah Murphy put in a number of good tackles in midfield winning possession and looking to set attacks going scoring the winning goal. Along side her Holley Ross had a solid game challenging for the ball and taking it forwards to  try and link with the attack. Chelsea Burr working hard up top alone at times moving across the East Bergholt defence to find openings. Today’s award though goes to goalkeeper, Danni King. May not be her natural position but she was superb pulling off a number of brilliant saves to ensure her side kept a clean sheet to progress to the last 4.

A thoroughly entertaining cup tie, great to catch up with East Bergholt 1st time seeing them at home too a fine effort just missing out. My first look at Whittlesey Athletic, a long journey home so much better after a win, had to work for it but rose to the occasion. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Long Stratton Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

Sunday 6th March

Norfolk Women’s Division One

 Staying in Norfolk this Sunday with a trip east along the A47 then down the A140 to watch a game from Norfolk Women’s Division One with Long Stratton Women taking on Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women at Manor Road.

 After two season cut short by the Covid pandemic it is good to see a buy football schedule continuing into March and for plenty of teams across the East there is still alot of football to be played. The battle at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One shaping up nicely. Mulbarton Belles Ladies the team to beat at the top with a 100% record so far from 12 played. Competitive amongst the sides chasing below jostling for position in the top 6.

 Long Stratton Women amongst those sides currently 4th in the table, looking to establish themselves as a side that can challenge for silverware in the coming seasons. Their captain Sam Walker a prolific goal scorer prior to joining the club has continued to find the back of the net on a regular basis for Long Stratton already on 30 for the season to date from 14 appearances. Long Stratton’s goal threat doubling with Luci Middleton joining the cub at the start of the season after a period away from the game. Back with a bang with her tally at 24 from 14 as she chases down a 30 goal target herself. Winning 6 of their 13 games played so far with 2 draws and 5 loses are unbeaten in the league so far in 2022 with 3 wins an a draw.

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women were formed in 2020 the playing squad having previously been Sprowston Ladies. Under the Sprowston name were a highly successful side winning the league cup aswell as finishing in the top three in previous seasons prior to the Covid pandemic. Looking to continue in that vein as Dussindale & Hellesdon were looking strong in their debut season before things were curtailed. Similarly this time around currently 6th in the Division One table but have played less games than those above them just 8 so far winning 6 with 2 losses. Victoria Leyer their talisman in front of goal in previous seasons and has 15 goals so far this season from just 6 appearances. Dussindale & Hellesdon far from reliant on Layer’s goals however as they are scoring plenty of goals with 3 more players into double figures already. Chelsea Brister with 12 goals from 11 appearances, whilst ex-Long Stratton player Charlie head has scored 18 from 9. With Shanice Sutton top scoring with 21 goals so far from 10 finding the form she’d shown when at Thorpe United before a catastrophic knee injury saw her side-lined from the game for a lengthy spell.

Manor Road the venue for today’s game, home to Long Stratton 4 adult sides plus youth teams the large recreation ground boasting a number of grass pitches and other sporting facilities overlooked by a new pavilion and kitchen area. Today’s game on the pitch at the far end of the ground, offering plenty of width, the ground heavy underfoot, muddy conditions for sure. A stiff breeze blowing across the pitch bringing with it dark clouds and although no rain was forecast we would be graced with a few spots during the match.

Long Stratton Women

 Long Stratton Women starting XI – Jody Todd, Emily Farmer, Mia Wilkinson, Megan Vincent, Megan Bird, Milly Cawcutt, Beth Stratton, Kate Ransome, Emily Allsopp, Harriet Hunwicks-Rush & Sam Walker (C). Sub- Karmen Harvey.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Amee Kennett, Sieska Humphries, Calista Tink (C), Georgina Belton, Abi Nobbs, Katy Leigh, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister, Shanice Sutton & Tallulah Bell. Subs – Kirstie Rusted, Carina Holmes & Lucy Wetherall.

A few keys players missing for Long Stratton today including Luci Middleton up top, with just one player available from the bench. Charlie Head missing for Dussindale & Hellesdon after picking up an ankle knock. Long Stratton to kick-off the game in the 1st half wearing red shirts and socks with black coloured shorts. Dussindale & Hellesdon usually in an all claret kit fearing a kit clash adorning navy coloured tops for the game. The ball closed down in the middle straight away both sides charging in to close it down, skipping up back and forth between the players, Beth Stratton releasing it up the right wing for captain Sam Walker to chase, Sieska Humphries tackling for Dussindale & Hellesdon the ball out for a throw in.

 The throw in clipped on into the area, safely in the hands of Dussindale & Hellesdon keeper, Tyla Cole guarding her near post. Play continues to be intense in the middle of the park players diving in to win the ball no control, skipping up Kate Ransome attempting to feed it through for Walker up top, Dussindale & Hellesdon’s captain, Calista Tink defending at centre back, clearing the ball upfield. Shanice Sutton collecting the ball inside the Long Stratton half on the right playing a diagonal ball into Tallulah Bell up top the Dussindale & Hellesdon attack, not able to get control of the ball before she is challenged by Long Stratton’s Milly Cawcutt.

 Roles reversed a few moments later as the ball is angled into Bell drifting left before whipping a long cross into the area for Sutton beyond the far post, Mia Wilkinson closing in at full back to defend getting the ball back to her keeper Jody Todd. Long Stratton looking for Walker out on the left wins a throw high up the pitch, Harriet Hunwicks-Rush to take it has a long throw on her sent into the area a strong header from Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Georgina Belton to clear, out to Amee Kennett on the right the visitors looking to break the ball fed on for Bell taking it on before playing a long diagonal ball forwards into the box looking for Sutton, difficult to get under control before she is tackled by Megan Vincent.

Long Stratton’s Mia Wilkinson

   Dussindale & Hellesdon are quick to win the ball back keep momentum going Chelsea Brister over on the right putting a diagonal ball into Bell inside the D, sees it up onto her chest on the turn to lift a shot over her marker, over the crossbar too. Rain falling steadily the wind blowing the clouds on not likely to last long. Humphries charging forwards on the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon making ground on the wing before she is stopped by Long Stratton’s Emily Farmer. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Sieska Humphries

  Dussindale & Hellesdon making frequent sorties down the wings Brister this time left side whipping in a cross, can’t quite find Sutton. Nor does Bell attacking left checking back up the line to curl a cross in going long over Sutton attacking central. Conditions not helping the game somewhat scrappy at time with both sides working hard to close the ball down in the middle often congested no one afforded any time. Walker operating on her own up top Long Stratton looking to feed the ball into her one to chase, Belton having just enough of a head start to win the race knock it back to her keeper to clear.

Megan Bird carrying the ball out for Long Stratton

 

  Bell looking lively drifting out to the left in attack for Dussindale & Hellesdon, squaring a cross into the near side of the box looking for Sutton running behind her comes to Abby Hutchin outside the , shifts it right looking to open up space for a strike, Ransome going with her getting her foot up to block her effort deflecting it up over the bar for a corner kick. Players forwards the delivery long dropping far post cleared up field by Vincent a potential break with Walker charging after it Humphries needing to defend well, and does to clear.

Long Stratton captain, Sam Walker with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Amee Kennett

 Walker has the ability to turn any situation into a goal scoring opportunity if given half a chance. 40 yards from goal brings a long ball down off her chest, no one on her turns smartly to strike a shot goalwards, off target however Cole can see it safely roll past her far post. 

  GOAL! The deadlock broken in the 20th minute as Dussindale & Hellesdon with a corner on the left. Players come forwards a well practised set piece, Brister to play the corner in near post Tink rising up to head the ball twisting to power the ball into the back of the net 0-1.

Calista Tink scoring from the corner kick

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink opening the scoring

  Long Stratton competing for the ball well enough in the middle of the park are struggling to get it into Walker in attack, Tink and Belton winning it back bringing it forwards demanding passing options ahead of them. Kennett carrying the ball on right side cuts inside driving for the area, Kate Ransome coming across sliding in to take the ball away from her for a throw in on the right. The visitors applying pressure in the final 3rd winning another corner on the left, the delivery long this time over to the far post.

  Belton winning the ball against Walker takes it forwards for Dussindale & Hellesdon before being brought down presenting the visitors with a free-kick. Hutchin on to Leigh who puts it into Sutton in front of goal, Concedes a foul giving Long Stratton possession back. The ball coming back all to often for Long Straton the host frustrated with a few decisions a free-kick conceded central Hutchin clipping in on for Leigh left of the D helps it on to Bell inside the box behind her she crosses it to Sutton on the right, Wilkinson closing in to take the ball away from her.

Abby Hutchin on the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon

   Stratton clattered in the middle down for Long Stratton a pause in play whilst she receives treatment goes off but is okay to return to the action is over on the left as the ball comes to her connects sending it over the top for Walker, Tink back peddling however for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting her head on the ball first. Stratton up ended again centrally as the hosts look to up the tempo apply some pressure higher up the pitch. Players up into the area Ransome getting her head on the ball near side knocking it down past the far post Megan Bird after it keeping the attack alive no one to help her is forced wide Stratton arriving to receive the ball knock inside before lifting in a cross into the area that bounces wide of the near post.

  Vincent in to block again getting her foot up to deny Sutton as she drifts away to the right of goal. Bell on the left taking the ball out wide down the line Farmer across with her preventing the cross coming in. 

 GOAL! A little under 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half and Dussindale & Hellesdon go on to double their lead the attack staring with Kennett on the right space to run into travels inside moving central before clipping the ball on for Sutton making a run to the near post right on goal, taking the ball on, looks to commit the keeper, pace Todd stands her ground six yards out Sutton taking it wide to further to the right sending a angled ball back to strike the back of the net 0-2.

Shanice Sutton doubles the visitors lead

  Long Stratton having just conceded a 2nd goal find themselves at a further disadvantage moments later. Allsopp is busy central working to win possession back the ball rebounding up striking her arm is penalised and not at all happy about it, those protests landing her in trouble with the referee as she is yellow carded and sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes. Long Stratton to see the half out with 10 players. Dussindale winning a free-kick wide on the left, the ball floated into the area cleared by Wilkinson beyond the D, drops straight to Brister, 20 yards out left of the D, takes on the strike blasting the ball wide across goal. 

Long Stratton’s Harriet Hunwicks-Rush

The game moving into stoppage time, despite being down to 10 Long Stratton are prepared to commit players forwards, as Walker gathers the ball on half way left sends it on into the middle for Ransome to head down into the path of Bird beside her she in turn has Wilkinson bombing on wide left picking her out, she delivers a cross into the area, Dussindale & Hellesdon getting sufficient players back inside their box to win the header and clear. 

Hutchin taking the ball on left for Dussindale & Hellesdon playing it on into Sutton left of the D, doesn’t connect cleanly with her shot, scuffed it rolls straight to Todd at her near post. Kennett on the charge right side evading Wilkinson’s challenge in behind to whip in a cross near side for Sutton to attack, Vincent in ahead of her slicing the ball away to the top of the D, Nobbs racing onto it taking on the first time shot her attempt swerving away from goal wide. 

  Dussindale & Hellesdon with a free-kick wide left put in near side Todd coming through bodies at her near post the clear, back out to the left Dussindale & Hellesdon drawing players out before sending a cross dipping into Sutton at the near post attempts an audacious back heel flick, would have been a spectacular goal, only to Sutton despair the ball cannons off the base of the far post before Todd scoops it up into her gloves.

Half-time Long Stratton Women 0-2 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

 A 2-0 lead for Dussindale & Hellesdon at the break both sides staying out on the field as the temperature drops considerably. A strong first half creating a host of chances scoring twice. The game in itself quite a scrappy affair the ball heavily contested in the middle, Dussindale & Hellesdon getting players up to support Bell and Sutton in attack, Long Stratton in contrast working hard to try and get hold of the ball struggling to get Walker into the game up the other end.

  No changes as far as I can tell for either side at the break. The rain has stopped the sun trying to make an appearance now despite the chill in the air. The start of the 2nd half a repeat of the first the ball going no where in the middle popping back and forth, Leigh eventually clipping a long pass forwards dealt with by Vincent for Long Stratton at the back. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Katy Leigh

 Ransome getting possession for Long Stratton in the centre lifting the ball on for Walker to attack, Tink getting in to header it clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Long Stratton soon back up to 11 as Allsopp is allowed to return to the action. Hunwicks-Rush looking to send her long throws on into the area, a potential problem for Dussindale & Hellesdon as Stratton looks to get the ball down before it is hooked clear. 

  GOAL! The last thing Long Stratton wanted to do was concede early in the 2nd half, Bell has moved over to the right in the 2nd half getting hold of the ball drives for the by-line Wilkinson going with her, Bell brought down as she manages to lift a cross in along the face of goal. The referee pointing to the spot, Wilkinson penalised for her challenge on Bell Penalty! Sutton to place the ball on the spot fires it straight at Todd who saves with her feet. The ball deflected up dropping to the right of goal as players rush in on the follow-up Sutton their to receive as the ball is cut back into her to drive hard past Todd as she dives in vein to her left to try and keep it out. 0-3.

Jody Todd initially saving Shanice Sutton’s penalty before the striker scored her 2nd of the game

Shanice Sutton scoring twice for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  Dussindale & Hellesdon 3 goal to the good with 50 minutes gone. Hutchin has made a number of driving runs through the middle for the visitors Bell always available peeling away on the flanks taking the pass on down the line from the angle her cross landing on the roof of the net. Hutchin combining with Bell again on the right the cross deeper this time dropping near post catch cleanly by Todd with Sutton closing in. Sutton with an attempt on goal herself from all of 35 yards dipping in front of Todd caught back on her line. 

  Stratton battling for the ball left side taking it forwards sends the pass on for Walker to attack but as has been the case for much of the afternoon the final ball is dealt with by Dussindale & Hellesdon as Cole comes racing out of her area to clear. Tink clearing a Hunwicks-Rush throw sent into the area on the right sets up a counter attack Nobbs playing the ball on for Sutton to lift out to Bells pulling away on the right wing strikes on the angle a powerful shot Todd stretching getting a firm glove on the ball to deflect it wide of the far post for a corner kick.

Emma Allsopp battling for possession with Amee Kennett

  Allsopp continues to work hard centrally for Long Stratton going in to close the ball down getting hold of it inside the centre circle spots Walker moving into the right channel, so too does Belton for Dussindale & Hellesdon the centre back having kept a close eye on Walker throughout closing in to win the ball back, Long Stratton continue to be frustrated with decisions going against them. The hosts do win a free-kick on the right the delivery into the near side inside the box Vincent low knocking the ball up into the air inside the six yard box Cole up to claim it clattered wins a free-kick.

Sam Walker

  Cawcutt taking a knock at the back for Long Stratton a pause in play allowing a substitution Karmen Harvey on for Hunwicks-Rush with 25 minutes left to play. Stratton seeing the ball into her feet spinning off her marker in the middle putting the ball on for Walker, Belton going with her tackling to deny an opportunity on goal. Todd moving out to the right corner of her area to deal with the threat from Bell as she looks to steal in behind as the ball in played long from midfield. 

 Walker has worked hard up top moving about the back line to try and find and opening all game taking the ball right Belton going with her again, gets the better of the centre back this time frustrated though an her angled drive lands in the side netting. Brister from the left firing a cross in across goal over Bell attacking the far post retrieved on the right a shot put wide. Walker picking up the ball deep powers her way forwards through the middle before sending a shot wide of goal. Both sides beginning to tire the yellow ball coated in mud. Both sides seeing passes going astray Long Stratton frustrated as it just doesn’t seem to be running their way. 

  A double switch for Dussindale & Hellesdon with around 15 minutes left on the clock, Brister and Nobbs coming off on come Kirstie Rusted and Carina Holmes. Long Stratton are taking more risks Allsopp trying to get up with Walker at times as they look for a goal. Wilkinson on the charge down the left gets in behind only to overrun the ball giving Cole a chance to sprint out towards her claim the ball. 

Karmen Harvey defending for Long Stratton

 GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes Dussindale & Hellesdon get the ball up on the right players up in attack Bell back for Sutton right corner of the box drills a shot towards goal low and hard through the defence into the bottom corner to claim her hat-trick 0-4.

A hat-trick for Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Shanice Sutton

  Another blow for Long Stratton they look to regroup press the attack Stratton battling for possession out to Allsopp, the pass forwards intercepted. Allsopp looks to go on her out through the middle a unfavourable bobble taking the ball away from her. Bird on the right for Long Stratton wrapping her foot around the ball looking to deliver it into the near post, Belton winning the defensive header for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

Todd with another save off her legs as Bell fires a shot in from the right as she and Sutton combine on the flank. A corner given on the right put into the crowd near post Todd calls coming into the mix to punch clear sliced out to the left cleared by Stratton. Belton has been a thorn in Walkers side all afternoon the defender in to tackle well again as Walker attempts to force her way through into the box on the right. 

 Into stoppage time Dussindale & Hellesdon on the attack a cross put into the box from the right headed away by Ransome. Holmes with a strike from distance send wide right to left past the far post a second later the final whistle blows. 

Full time Long Stratton Women 0-4 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

  A comfortable win for Dussindale & Hellesdon in the finish coming out on top in what was at times a scrappy contest played in difficult conditions. The job done however a well practised set-piece leading to the opening goal. The advantage doubled before the break with further opportunities created in front of goal. Long Stratton with a battling display working hard but all too often Walker found herself isolated in attack, the ball coming back to Dussindale & Hellesdon. A penalty conceded early in the 2nd half well saved by Todd only to be struck home on the follow up putting the visitors in control. Sutton going on to complete her hat-trick moving onto 24 goals for the season lifting Dussindale & Hellesdon above Long Stratton into 4th in the process.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match One winner in the finish but a few performances of note to mention first. For Long Stratton, Sam Walker worked tirelessly leading the attack and made herself available for her teammates throughout the game. Whist Beth Stratton and Emma Allsopp both battled hard in the middle to try and regain possession. For Dussindale & Hellesdon both Calista Tink and Georgina Belton were solid at the back, the latter dealing with Walker’s threat well in the 2nd half. Abby Hutchin with some strong runs on the ball from the middle. Whilst Katy Leigh won more than her fair share to tackles in midfield. In attack was impressed by Tallulah Bell her movement out into the flanks causing problems drawing players out and in doing so opened up opportunities in front of goal for her strike partner and today’s player of the match, Shanice Sutton. Found some great positions in front of goal and took her goals well, creating further chances (if only that back heel flick had gone in!).

  Finally caught up with Dussindale & Hellesdon since their name chance good to see them and Long Stratton in action once again. Now doubt women’s football in Norfolk is getting stronger more to come from both sides I feel. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham