Monthly Archives: August 2022

Match Report – Wymondham Town Women v Norwich City Women

Tues 30th August

FAWNL South East Division One

 A trip along the A47 this Tuesday evening for the 1st of 2 local derbies this week from FAWNL South East Division One and for the 1st time in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid we have a Norfolk derby with newly promoted Wymondham Town Women hosting Norwich City Women.

History being made this evening with this game the 1st Norfolk derby match taking place in the tier of the women’s football pyramid. Norwich City Women long established at this level joined in FAWNL South East Division One by Wymondham Town Women promoted to the league winning the ERWFL Premier Division title last season.

  Under manager Alex Guy’s leadership, Wymondham have grown into one of the leading women’s sides in Norfolk. Rising from the county set-up into the regional leagues cumulating last season with the club winning the treble. Dominated the ERWFL Premier Division from start to finish to clinch the title and promotion, aswell as winning the League Cup and winning the Norfolk Harrod Sport County Cup for the 2nd time at Carrow Road. Doing so with one of the smallest squads in the league too! Alex Guy setting down from his role during the summer as the club begin a new chapter in the FAWNL.

 Rob Dyer taking on the role as 1st team manager coming in relatively late with the new season just around the corner. Several changes at the club in terms of players as Wymondham look to compete at a higher level. Key departures to midfield with Rebecca Russell and Katie Knights both leaving the club to join this evenings opponents, Norwich. 8 new faces brought in to join the squad. A player who made a huge impact in her previous spell with Wymondham returning with Amber Cantwell joining having plenty of experience playing in FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC. So too has Brooke Osborne  the defender coming in from Norwich. Goalkeeper Yaz Walford too joins after a season with Norwich having been at Royston Town Women previously. Brook Cheal also returning after having been at Larkhall Athletic Ladies an Norwich previously. Defender Maddison Goodenough looked impressive playing for Dussindale & Hellesdon last season also has experience with MK Dons. Young player, Nyah White joins from Waveney  another young player joining is Chloe Shipman who impressed on her debut at the weekend with Sian Douglas the latest signing previously with Norwich. 

 The FDC, Bowthorpe’s Harrod Sport Arena, Wymondham’s new home for the 2022/23 season. Part of Norfolk FA’s impressive grassroots facilities. Started life in South East Division One with a narrow 2-1 loss to London Seaward FC who like Wymondham don’t have the backing of a men’s club like several others do at this level and above. Players missing at the start of the season through unavailability or injury was a small squad that travelled down to Essex to play title favourites Hashtag United Women on Sunday, a tough one to take their host leading 4-0 at the break going on to win 10-0 at the final whistle and with a quick turn around for this evenings match Wymondham once again have a shortage of numbers with injured players on the bench.

Norwich City Women themselves have tasted a 10-0 defeat in recent seasons but we won’t dwell on that! A new buzz and sense of optimism about the club as they start the 2022/23 off the back of a great escape the previous campaign with 4 wins from their final 5 games ensuring the club retained it’s 4th tier status when they looked to be pasting Wymondham in the opposite direction. The day to day running of the club now in house with Norwich City FC, the Championship club appointing ex-WSL player Flo Allen as general manager to oversea the women’s side. 

Bringing in several new faces to bolster an already decent sized squad. Midfield duo Russell and Knights as previously mentioned from Wymondham, Defender Ceri Flye from Cambridge City Ladies. Young striker, Liv Cook from Waveney and defenders Naomi Cooper from Wroxham aswell a Alice Parker re-joining after a season with Wroxham. Started their campaign with a trip to the Abbey Stadium to play Cambridge United WFC on the opening day and despite going a goal down came back to level and strong 2nd half saw them winning the game 4-1 with Natasha Snelling scoring a hat-trick. That momentum taken into their 1st home game at The Nest on Sunday, where 400 spectators were in attendance to see Norwich beat Actonians Ladies 1-0 thanks to a strike from Rebecca Russell to keep them top of the table.

Norwich’s Rebecca Russell scoring her 1st goal for the club at the weekend

The FDC, Bowthorpe’s Harrod Sport Arena the venue for this evenings game. Everyone hoping for a record crowd for the derby clash especially on the back of the Lionesses recent Euros success. The clubhouse and bar open leading into the facility with the main pitch having under gone some work the large 3G pitch now featuring standing viewing on three sides with a stand with seating on one side. The Snack Box open serving hot drinks. A good crowd building additional parking needed parked at The Brook Hotel a short walk from the ground. A pleasant evening dry with a cool breeze.

The FDC Harrod Sport Arena

Wymondham Town Women

Wymondham Town Women starting XI – Yaz Walford, Brooke Osborne, Leah Newcombe (C), Sian Douglas, Brooke Cheal, Jen Codman, Chloe Shipman, Hayley Kindred, Natasha Youngs, Francesca Catchpole & Hannah Waters. Subs – Nyah White, Lyla Studd, Jess Hawkins & Lauren Kett.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Alice Parker, Anna Larkins (C), Chardonnay Johnston, Ceri Flye, Katie Knights, Rebecca Russell, Ellie Smith, Liv Cook, Megan Todd & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Summer Ward, Rosie George, Jess Harper, Leilah Gooding & Ella Gambell.

As mentioned Wymondham coming into the game with players unavailable such as Amber Cantwell an defenders Mary Croft and Chelsea Clarke with others out injured. Yaz Walford making her 3rd start in goal with captain Leah Newcombe the only one of the back 5 tonight a part of last season’s defence. Sian Douglas, Brook Cheal and Brooke Osborne all in the back line. Chloe Shipman starting in midfield. Both Knights and Russell starting against their former club for Norwich as does defender Chardonnay Johnston. Freya Symonds another former Wymondham player picking up a knock in the Cambridge game missing with Liv Cook starting in attack for Norwich. 

Wymondham to get the game underway the floodlights beginning to take effect wearing red shirts and shorts with black socks with Norwich opposite once again in their away colours xenon pink and blue shirts with xenon blue shorts and socks. Midfielder, Jen Codman playing the ball out diagonally to the right looking for Natasha Youngs bursting forwards, Alice Parker at left back defending for Norwich. Players nipping in to close down the ball early on a frantic start from Wymondham as they look to harry the ball in midfield making progress through the middle the ball up towards the area Ceri Flye winning it for Norwich.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Ellie Smith tackled, Wymondham’s Hayley Kindred to get hold of the ball for Norwich drives on the ball into Katie Knights who gets up ended a free kick to Norwich inside the Wymondham half, Parker to deliver it in players up into the box sent long towards the far post no one attacking it a Walford can see it bounce wide of her goal. Wymondham come right Youngs on the ball a strong run making ground before attempting to slide it on for striker Hannah Waters running into the box, can’t get onto the end of it before the ball runs out of play.

  Smith taking the ball on from midfield driving forwards with purpose for Norwich moving right sends it out to the wing for Megan Todd who in turn plays it back to captain, Anna Larkins getting on from full back to sends a cross in to Snelling central at the top of the area, getting her head on the ball looks t turn it goalwards placing it central Walford well placed to take the catch. Wymondham are quick to get on the attack in reply Newcombe getting on right side forwards for Youngs a good run to the corner before whipping a cross in low towards the near post attacker Francesca Catchpole closing in on the goalkeeper, getting her shot away looking to put it across her into the bottom corner pulls her shot wide of the far post.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Smith picking up the ball and driving on is a feature for Norwich and difficult for teams to contend with riding a couple of challenges is eventually brought down 25 yards out in a dangerous position in front of goal. Perfect range for Russell whose set pieces Wymondham are all too familiar with. Gets her shot up over the wall on target dipping in front of Walford the keeper with a great reflex save getting a glove up to turn the ball over wide for a corner kick. Played in to the top of the box from the right, clipped inside left for Liv Cook to attack, Catchpole defending for Wymondham getting fouled in the process.

  Hayley Kindred combining well with Brooke Osborne on the left for Wymondham look to set up Catchpole moving out to the flank, Ceri Flye going with her for Norwich the centre back winning the ball back. Wymondham press the ball high Jen Codman back to Osborne up the line the hosts getting a throw high up the pitch, Osborne with the power in her arms to get it into the box with Youngs jumping go for it can’t capitalise. Wymondham working hard to close Norwich down not letting the visitors find any rhythm Waters and Catchpole up top exchanging passes Catchpole going left turning a cross into the box, defended by Flye. 

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Flye winning the ball at the back again for Norwich her clearance seeing Snelling peeling of the defence right side looking to break in behind, Sian Douglas recovering well at centre back to get back at her to tackle regain possession for Wymondham. From the throw Smith takes the ball inside  picking out Cook on the left wing shoots her effort driven wide of the left post. A pause in play with Todd down needing some attention looks in a little discomfort but after assessment is okay to continue. It is a scrap in midfield with Knights and Smith for Norwich and Codman and 16-year-old  Chloe Shipman competitive for Wymondham is effective in disrupting Norwich, Smith looking to drive on whenever she can.

Norwich’s Ellie Smith (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  A derby feel referee Laura Van Lier needing to have a cautionary word with Smith as she dives in a little too rashly. The free-kick for Wymondham in midfield is played long to Catchpole on the left side looking to hold the ball up is shoved over another free-kick to Wymondham. Angled in the the far post players attacking it Kindred gets up highest for Wymondham to meet it getting her head on target Bryony Williams with a great save for Norwich. Wymondham holding their own creating a couple of half chances. Smith surging on with the ball into the right channel is stopped by Osborne.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Flye coming out to the wing to defend on Kindred as she attacks left side, the defenders cleared ball fining Todd out on the right flank flashes it inside to Snelling inside the D good control to hold up the ball shifting it to her left to turn into the shot put back across goal runs wide of the far post. Half an hour gone Norwich getting going finding more momentum going forwards getting after Wymondham to get hold of the ball higher up the pitch. A clever triangle between Russell, Smith and Todd as Norwich come right, the ball played crossfield to the left with Parker bombing on from full back releases her forwards pass early a diagonal ball lifted into the box the target Knights as she makes a fantastic break from midfield can’t quite get on the end of the pass a flowing move.

  GOAL! Smith making a nuisance of herself on the edge of the box is brought down the referee awarding a Penalty. Birthday girl, Todd to take it placing the ball on the spot a confident strike turned into the left of the goal to open the scoring 0-1.

Megan Todd stepping up to open the scoring for Norwich (phot credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Catchpole with a talking to from the referee after a late tackle on Larkins. 

 GOAL! Norwich make it 2 goals inside 2 minutes Norwich winning a throw high on the left Todd bringing it down sending it back to Larkins level with the top of the area wide to cross in, a fantastic delivery to the far post Snelling getting up to meet it twisting her header down into the back of the net to score 0-2.

Natasha Snelling heads in Norwich’s 2nd (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  The foul count in the middle totting up as Codman fouls Smith. The visitors come on through the middle before laying it out to Cook on the left an ambitious strike on the angle races wide across the six yard box. Smith is getting clipped at regular intervals as Wymondham try to slow her down. Smith tough giving as good as she gets. The goals have rocked Wymondham need to settle down have been doing okay up to that point. Todd takes the ball inside from the left across the D turning it inside for Snelling, closely marked by Ferris can’t turn to shoot instead feeds it back to Todd who lifts her attempt over.

  Norwich advancing on the left the pass from Larkins inside to Todd 25 yards out, spots Cook breaking into the area from the left her cross turned in across the six yard box Cook can’t quite take it in her stride, cleared. Osborne racing up on the left gets the ball on for Catchpole her return pass inside to Osborne the defender lifting it on for Waters inside the area, well marked can’t get it under control to turn and shoot before it is smuggled away. Wymondham press high getting the corner left, fired into the six yard box is scrambled clear by Norwich falling straight to Codman 25 yards out blasts her shot in wide of the right post.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Johnston is fouled by Waters as the Wymondham attacker looks to muscle her way in behind on halfway. Clipped in long to the far post Walford attempting to claim low is fouled. Kindred up on the left with Catchpole crossed in Johnston intercepting for Norwich chesting the ball down volleying clear. A late flurry form Wymondham at the end of the 1st half Youngs getting a corner on the right dipped in low near post, Williams getting hold of it play stopped with a Norwich player down.

Half-time Wymondham Town Women 0-2 Norwich City Women

  Norwich leading 2-0 at the break. The break through coming from the penalty spot. Todd converting to make it 1-0 a 2nd goal quickly following as Snelling headed home. Prior to that Wymondham were doing well working hard to disrupt Norwich’s play. Certainly had a derby feeling with the robust tackles being put in in the middle of the park. Creating a couple of good scoring chances of their own. The quickfire double unsettling them as Norwich gained confidence and momentum going forwards looking lively around the box. 2-0 often a tricky score and all too often the next goal will be crucial.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Norwich to get the 2nd half underway a fantastic crow of 435 in attendance and that lends to the atmosphere. Parker advancing on the right for Norwich her low diagonal ball intercepted by Douglas, sliced behind but favourably to be cleared. Smith with a surging run from midfield lays the pass on for Snelling inside the box sends the ball past the advancing keeper but it won’t count the flag already up against her. A bright start from Norwich Snelling seeing the ball into her feet turns to sent a shot over from 25 yards. 

  A corner for Norwich on the right defended at the near post Norwich getting it back to the taker to send a long cross in to the far post picking out Snelling close in snatches her volleyed effort over. Smith getting on through the middle into Snelling top of the D, attempts to pick out Cook breaking in left side a timely interception from Newcombe tracking back. 

Natasha Snelling

GOAL! A strong start to the 2nd half from Norwich out of the blocks early and with 5 minutes gone in the 2nd period the visitors extend their lead. Russell with a brilliant through ball to put Snelling in on goal right of the D beating the offside trap, to set up a one on one with the advancing keeper, the striker slotting the ball low past Walford to score her 5th goal of the season in just 3 matches and make it 0-3.

  A blistering start to the 2nd half Norwich have Wymondham well and truly on the back foot, Newcombe winning the interception inside her area as Norwich look to pick out Cook bursting inside from the left. Cook tracking back to regain the ball turning left getting on with pace to send a cross/shot wide across the six yard box. Norwich attack right Snelling up with Todd, Osborne getting the challenge in hurt in the process but is okay after treatment. 

  GOAL! closing in on an hour played all Norwich so far the visitors on the ball Smith with another drive from the middle coming left playing the ball on for Cook, taking it on a brilliant burst of pace to get her into the box bearing down on goal, closing in on the keeper appears to have run out of room but somehow manages to squeeze a shot past the keeper to score her first competitive goal for Norwich 0-4.

Liv Cook scores her 1st competitive goal for Norwich (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Norwich make a change, Smith having taken a few knocks coming off in midfield, Leilah Gooding coming on. Wymondham unsettled out of sorts Codman getting a talking too from the referee. Catchpole in strongly on the right to win the ball her long ball on too strong for Waters. 

 GOAL! Norwich add a 5th goal with Cook getting into a high position on the left to receive the ball into her feet turns inside smartly showing a great turn of pace to burst towards the box slipping the pass through to Snelling pulling of the last defender to bear down on goal to sent her shot under the keeper to score her 2nd hat-trick of the season… just 3 game old 0-5.

  Midway through the 2nd half Wymondham shell shocked going 5 goals down struggling to find a response as Norwich press the ball everywhere. Todd coming off for Norwich, Ella Gambell the player coming on. The game a little subdued. Snelling giving way for Rosie George up top. A double switch from Wymondham with Catchpole and Kindred coming off to be replaced by Lyla Studd and Nyah White. Norwich making their final 2 changes  bringing on Summer Ward and Jess Harper for Parker and Johnston.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Good work from George on the left by-line cutting the ball back into the box, cut out by Ferris.

 GOAL! Cook on the ball left side moves inside a pacey run is clipped right on the corner of the area just outside a freekick for Norwich. Russell placing the ball close in but a good angle scoops her hot over the wall dropping for the bottom corner Walford dropping across to cover will be disappointed as the ball manages to squirm in between her and the post to extend the lead to 0-6.

Rebecca Russell congratulated by her teammates after scoring (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 All Norwich all Wymondham can do to try and contain them as they get numbers up and around their box, out to Cook on the left her cross into the six yard box turned back across beyond the far post, Douglas getting her head into deflect it up for Walford to claim. Gambell on the right for Norwich goes forwards with the ball stopped by Osborne. Ferris attempting to bring the ball out from the back has limited option ahead of her tackled by Knights. George getting hold of the ball right outside the box put inside for Gambell who does well to keep in on the by-line the challenge sending the ball for a throw in the corner. 

  Out on the right Norwich come on Gambell with Harper in support a shot driven in on the angle held by Walford. A rare opportunity for Wymondham in attack as Shipman in midfield plays a brilliant pass into Waters inside the box right of goal , sends the shot in low to the near post Williams alert diving to her left to push the ball wide for a corner. 

 Knight out left inside for George with Norwich getting into the final 3rd right of the D George plays it back to Gooding to have a crack at goal from distance, on target but can only pick out Walford. A lengthy pause follows with Youngs down for Wymondham after a clash of knees. Sad news as the stretcher come out and Youngs is taken off. The game lost the injured players not risked Wymondham play on with 10. Despite that Wymondham exploit the left Osborne put on by Douglas, her early cross in aimed for White breaking into the area but Williams can safely gather. Russell having a go from distance a long way out looping down to creep under the bar, Walford though back on her line not troubled bringing it down safely. 

 Douglas back well on Cook to tackle as she looks to get away on the left. Knights forwards latching onto the rebound after Ferris blocks Russell’s 25 yard strike, Knights effort cut out. George has picked up an injury and needs to come off for treatment for Norwich both sides finishing with 10 as the game moves into stoppage time. 

  GOAL! Time almost up Norwich continue to attack getting players up Knights into the box right of goal close to the by-line holding the ball up after chasing the blocked rebound from Ferris. Looking to hook a cross in across the face of goal is brought down, Penalty! Knights picking herself up t take the penalty puts her foot through it to smash the ball home for her 1st Norwich goal 0-7.

  No sooner has the penalty been scored then the final whistle blows seventh heaven for Norwich as they make it 3 wins from 3 to start their season on a high.

(photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Full time Wymondham Town Women 0-7 Norwich City Women

 Norwich dominant in the 2nd half taking the game to Wymondham right from kick-off creating numerous chances before scoring their 3rd goal a 4th and 5th quickly following with Wymondham on the back foot having no reply Snelling going on to complete her 2nd half trick of the season. Norwich remain top of South East Division One. A tough opening to the season for Wymondham with a much changed side and shortage of numbers for the last 2 games heavy losses but they were competitive in the 1st half with a couple of chances of their own before Norwich turned it up a gear.

  Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evening’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match. As usual a few contenders was s strong performance from Norwich. A couple of note from Wymondham too, Chloe Shipman didn’t look out of place despite her youth while Brooke Osborne made some vital tackles at the back getting forwards to support Kindred and Catchpole. For Norwich another hattrick for Natasha Snelling a sensational start to the season up front. Ceri Flye winning alot at the back. In midfield it was a competitive tussle for a while Katie Knights battling for the ball winning her fair share of tackles getting forwards well 2nd half. Edged out just by Ellie Smith her driving runs on the ball a real threat hard to contain and brings so much into play going forwards.

  An entertaining evening at The FDC, fantastic to see so many their, huge encouragement for the players and the game at large. Pleasure to meet Flo Allen from Norwich and my thanks to Wymondham for the team details and Scott Grearhardy for letting me use some of his pictures in the report.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Needham Market Women

Sunday 28th August

ERWFL Premier Division

 A short trip to Trafford Park this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier Division. Wroxham Women who made a winning start to their season last Sunday hosting newly promoted Needham Market Women.

 The ERWFL Premier Division once again looking strong with a number of sides having the title in their sights, with Harlow Town Ladies and Stevenage FC Women looking to bounce back to the FAWNL straight away after suffering relegation last season. The 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid with plenty of talented players as the game continues to grow. Often competitve and exciting to watch.

 Wroxham Women now a well established part of the Wroxham footballing family with ambitions to attain promotion to the FAWNL. A frustrating season to say the least during last years campaign. Getting off to a blistering start winning their opening 5 games, then the wheels came off and a difficult run of 4 straight losses followed before a draw and a lengthy period through the end of November into the New Year without a game. 2023 bringing the return to form the squad knew they were capable of winning 7 of their last 8 games aswell as reaching the final of the League Cup. Eventually finishing 4th a case of what might have been for the lull cost them. Manager Rebecca Burton standing down at the end of the season.

 Wroxham bringing in Joe Simpson as their new manager. At the club previously as coach the former King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager bringing Burton back as his assistant with another for King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager, Shelley Stewart part of the coaching team. Charlotte Rose in as strength and conditioning coach with goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook taking on a player/coach role. Several changes within the player squad too with players moving on or retiring, most notably striker, Grace Birchall a talisman for the club up front scoring 66 goals in 42 appearances. Simpson bringing in a number of news faces to the squad. Reuniting with a trio of former King’s Lynn players, Tiffany Forshaw bringing a wealth of experience to the club can operate anywhere through the spine of the team. Mary-Ann Hoy returning to Wroxham from King’s Lynn too along with midfield talent Zara O’Neill. 

  Saw Lucy Eagle first in action for Leiston St Margarets Ladies and has starred in attack for a number of county league sides since most recently Bungay Town Ladies, making to jump up to the fifth tier this campaign looking to test herself. Paige Shorten is another player with huge experience back playing after coaching with Ipswich Town Women. Plus a quartet of young players from Norwich City’s Player Pathway, Lucy Bradford, Lara Densley, Keela Olive and Breana Rudd.

Needham Market Women achieving promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division for the 1st time. In a very short space of time the club has become one of the leading lights for women’s football in Suffolk looking to emulate the counties leading side Ipswich Town Women in it’s growth and success. Joining the ERWFL in the 2018/19 season no doubt the Covid pandemic has stalled the clubs progress. A full season played a last in 2021/22, Needham Market were dominant from start to finish clinching the Division One North title gaining promotion along side fellow Suffolk rivals AFC Sudbury Women won won Division One South. The step up to the 5th tier of the women’s pyramid where standards go up a notch and a good test for an ambitious club looking to push itself. Scored plenty of goals last season, with Lina Nagib top scorer netting 26 goals, with Molly Hall, Lois Balfour and Ellie Rossiter scoring 21, 17 and 16 respectfully.

  An academy and 2nd team backing up the first team, manager Warren Lewis-Claxton has added a number of experienced former Ipswich players to the ranks such as goalkeeper, Danielle Clarke, Ellie Rossiter, Nicole Pannifer, Molly Hall and Paige Wakefield in recent seasons, has added a further two defenders this season in Lindsey Cooper and Eva Hubbard aswell as a number of promising young players such as Poppy Nunn and goalkeeper, Emily Cockrill. also joining aling with Charlotte McGrath who was most recently at Abingdon. Started life in the ERWFL Premier Division with a trip to Haringey Borough the hosts coming away with a 4-3 win.

  Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, a large grass pitch offering plenty of width, not the most even of playing surfaces with a distinct slope nevertheless in great condition. Viewing all round. A covered stand on one side of the pitch. The bar and clubhouse serving hot food and drinks on the other. Great weather for the match bright with a little cloud cover and a slight breeze.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd, Tigi Robson, Jess Horn (C), Zara O’Neill, Becky Russell, Holly Connell, Keela Olive, Lucy Eagle & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Cyan Fullbrook, Lara Densley, Summer Copland & Ellie Overton & Megan Rose.

Needham Market Women

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Emily Cockrill, Niamh Thomas, Eva Hubbard, Ele Catchpole, Lindsey Cooper, Abbie Fisher, Leilah Hanson, Mia Etheridge, Ellie Rossiter, Jo Brawn & Lois Balfour (C). Subs – Charlotte McGrath, Poppy Nunn, Lina Nagib & Paige Wakefield.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Two goalkeepers making their debuts today with Megan Lightfoot in goal for Wroxham. Danielle Clarke picking up an injury for Needham Market away to Haringey Borough last Sunday a blow, in comes Emily Cockrill recently joined from Kesgrave Kestrals. Lindsey Cooper making her competitive debut too for the visitors. Six more from Wroxham’s starting line-up making thier home debuts, Tiffany Forshaw, Lucy Eagle, Keela Olive, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd and Zara O’Neill. It’s Wroxham to get the game under way kicking off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical stripped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Needham Market lined up opposite in their away colours, yellow shirts and socks with black shorts. Wroxham look to send the ball on out to the left, Needham Market full back, Niamh Thomas can let the ball run on into the area for Cockrill to get an early feel of the ball.

A frantic start the ball hit back and forth between midfield and defensive Needham Market pushing  up, Wroxham manage to lift a pass over the top into the right channel for Eagle to run onto 25 yards out looks to take on the early strike, isn’t quite set stretching a little too much as she connects with the ball dragging it inside wide across the area. Leilah Hanson sending the ball on through the middle for Needham Market into the feet of captain and attacker Lois Balfour, she turns well on the ball spinning the pass out to Jo Brawn wide left, looking to take the ball on Wroxham full back Lucy Braford gets across to make the challenge the ball out for a throw in.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford

  A wide pitch play getting drawn to one side of the pitch space to exploit if the pass can be seen. Hubbard well aware of that as she bombs on down the left taking the ball on reaching the penalty area squares an inviting ball inside, dealt with by Wroxham captain, Jess Horn her clearance latched on in midfield a strike from distance fizzed back in, blocked. Wroxham break on their left the ball fed up the line rapidly, on for Forshaw bursting into the box, takes on the shot striking a low ball in on the angle, Cockrill closing the gap making a good blocking save. 

Needham Market’s Niamh Thomas

Needham Market attack left Hubbard racing up the line feeding the ball on for Balfour peeling into the channel, Horn getting across to put in the tackle before she can turn into the box. Forshaw looking to play off the last defender break in behind for Wroxham as the midfield work the ball into her, through to attack the box, her attack halted by the offside flag, a close call. Cockrill comes a long way out of her area to deal with the danger as Forshaw gives chase to a ball lifted into the right channel. Cockrill putting the ball into Hubbard the defender put under pressure by Forshaw who wins Wroxham a throw high up the pitch. 

Needham Market’s, Eva Hubbard

 Both sides looking to get the ball out from the back with pace into midfield, Needham Market have it on the left played into Hanson the Fisher as they go crossfield to Rossiter bursting forwards wide out on the wing her cross fired into the area collected by Lightfoot at her near post. An intriguing contest shaping up with 15 minutes gone. O’Neill getting hold of the ball in the middle for Wroxham plays it to Rudd on the left plays the ball on for Forshaw in attack, can’t reach it but is willing to pressure the defence looking to force an error, the result a goal kick this time. The hosts getting numbers forwards well pushing Needham Market’s defence back the release for the visitors Hubbard on the left as she looks to run into space. 

Ellie Rossiter with Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

 Hubbard turning inside with the ball plays a great diagonal ball forwards, a vital interception from Horn, or Brawn is in clear to attack the goal. Hanson in the middle sends the pass out to Thomas right getting the return pass as she moves forwards her cross into the box on the angle claimed well by Lightfoot. Hubbard continuing to cause problems on the left with the ball for Needham Market sends it on for Brawn ahead of her moving inside to take on the return pass driving for the box, Horn lunging in to make the tackle to dispossess her.

Wroxham captain, Jess Horn

  Keela Olive getting forwards with the ball for Wroxham right side on for Eagle her early diagonal ball into the area finding Forshaw out beyond the far post, controlling the ball sees Russell coming on lays the ball back into her path the midfielders cross/shot charged down by Cooper in the Needham Market defence. Wroxham retain possession on the left getting bodies forwards well the ball lofted back into the area Holly Connell beating her marker getting the ball down turning towards goal shooting low, Cockrill with a superb save getting down smartly blocking with her thigh. 

Keela Olive looking to get hold of the ball for Wroxham

 Pressure mounting from Wroxham keeping the ball in the final 3rd played out right a player brought down right on the edge of the box a free kick on the line level with the six yard line, Russell to play it into the area, Mia Etheridge up to make the defensive header clearing for Needham Market the ball falling to Wroxham’s Olive 25 yards out her 1st time shot blocked. A corner won on the right for Wroxham short between Connell and Russell the cross put into the area cleared. Another close call with the flag to deny Forshaw anyone chance on goal as she is almost put in by Eagle’s fine diagonal ball as she and Russell exchange passes on the right. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Forshaw looking the goal threat for Wroxham, Russell looking to thread a pass through for her to attack, Cockrill with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Brawn comes left with the ball, Bradford back on her to slow her down holds it up well as Hubbard racing forwards in support takes the ball on in behind to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. The delivery in to the near post doesn’t get past Horn, heading clear.

  Hubbard breaks clear on the left as Needham Market press the ball high, runs into the box, Connell getting back at her to challenge the ball turned off her for a corner kick. Payed in the outcome the same Horn winning the header at the near post. Into the final 15 minutes of the half few clear cut chances as of yet both sides putting alot in to press the ball. Brawn picking the ball up inside the Wroxham half looks to push on driving forwards almost reaching the area before getting outnumbers still managing to squeeze the ball back into the path of Fisher 30 yards out her wild strike landing wide of the mark. A pause in play with Russell down recieving treatment both sides going to the bench for instructions.

 GOAL! Play resumes Needham Market having possession out wide right, played inside to Brawn inside the area looks to attack, Lightfoot coming appears to hesitate, Brawn capitalising beating her to the ball stabbing it past her to open the scoring 0-1. 

Jo Brawn opens the scoring for Needham Market

  Needham Market looking sharper after the break in play getting the lead and going on the attack breaking from a goal-kick Brawn on the left with Hubbard taking the ball on in behind her, Horn needing to come round on the cover to clear the ball for a corner. Eagle taking a heavy knock as she runs into traffic in the middle. Needs a moment but is okay to continue. Etheridge getting on the ball through the middle for Needham Market puts the pass forwards for Balfour as she looks to move out into the channel, Horn getting in to tackle her. 

 Hubbard back to defend intercepting a diagonal pass from O’Neill as she looks to release Connell on the right. Catchpole winning the header top of her area as Wroxham get up on the left cross the ball in. The game moving into stoppage time Wroxham mounting a late attack the ball fed on for Forshaw left channel, Cockrill coming to close her down with her defence exposed, Forshaw cleverly taking the ball around the keeper as she slides in commit, left bearing down on goal shoots low, Catchpole sliding in making the last ditch defensive block the ball out to the far post Catchpole scrambling back to her feet to get to Forshaw before she gets a 2nd bite at goal lunging in to block again the ball rebounding out of the area falls to Olive 25 yards out puts her foot through the ball looking to smash it home, Cockrill recovering her position grateful to get her gloves up pluck the ball down to safety. One last corner for Wroxham to end the half put into the area successfully defending as the whistle blows.  

Needham Market defender Ele Catchpole with a crucial double block at te end of the 1st half

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Needham Market Women

  Needham Market leading by a single goal at the break. A close contest an intriguing watch the sides evenly matched. The result could have easily been the reverse at half-time. Cockrill making 2 superb saves with Catchpole making a huge block on the stroke of half-time. Jo Brawn’s goal the difference is still very much game on going into the 2nd half. A change at half-time for Wroxham with cyan Fullbrook on in goal for Lightfoot. Needham Market getting the 2nd half underway unchanged.

 

  The ball played out to Wroxham’s left, Bradford winning it for the hosts. Wroxham looking to make a busy start take the game to Needham Market at the start of the 2nd half, Rudd left sending the ball crossfield into Olive, back to Russell, Etheridge out to block her pass collecting the ball in the face a painful knock, play stopped for treatment. O’Neill playing the ball left to Rudd, pressured into playing the ball back to her centre backs Horn an Robson likewise under pressure as Etheridge hustles getting hold of the ball to release Rossiter into a gap on the right her cross into the area caught cleanly by Fullbrook. 

Wroxham’s Zara O’Neill

 Catchpole with a firm defensive clearance that has Rossiter giving chase to the ball on the right, crosses as she reaches the by-line but Fullbrook points out the ball was already gone, the assistant agrees. A corner for Needham Market on the right as Rossiter gets forwards well. As in the first half the delivery only finding Horn defending the near post area. Needham Market gaining momentum more on the right than the left with Thomas getting on to support Rossiter. Another corner on the right fired in near post Horn turning it out of the area, Needham Market have players ready to close down outside the area a shot struck in through bodies looks like it might be creeping inside the post, Fullbrook scrambling to get back to it scooping a glove under the ball enough to turn it wide for a corner on the left.

 Another pause in play with Etheridge down off the ball needing treatment, needs to come off this time with Needham Market bringing on Charlotte McGrath. 20 minutes played in the 2nd half remains a very tight and edgy affair. Needham Market taking the game to Wroxham keeping them busy inside their own half keeping Forshaw off the ball. Rossiter taking the ball on right side wrapping her foot around it to send the cross into the area, Horn heading clear for Wroxham. Another player down this time for Wroxham, Eagle a willing runner looking to drive on with the ball has been clattered a few time for her efforts. Wroxham making a double switch Eagle coming off, so too Rudd to be replaced by Lara Densley and Ellie Overton. Robson moving to the left of defence. 

 Overton’s first touch very close to being an own goal as Needham Market have a throw high on the right, Thomas putting it on for Hanson to head forwards for Rossiter on the wing her cross fired into the six yard box almost finding Balfour free at the near post, hitting Overton behind is narrowly wide for the corner. Needham Market with the momentum getting players forwards, Catchpole and Cooper looking solid in the centre of defence, Wroxham lacking numbers when they can break Connell right her cross claimed by Cockrill. Another double change for Wroxham with Megan Rose joining the back line on for Bradford. and Summer Copland on up top for Olive.

Needham Market captain, Lois Balfour

  Russell winning the ball back in the middle for Wroxham lays it forwards for Forshaw left of the  turns well in behind, Cooper quick to adjust getting back at her to deny the shot. Needham Market continue to exploit Rossiter on the right getting a throw high Rossiter’s cross in is uncharacteristically missed by Horn at the near post catching Brawn behind her off guard her touch off her hip turning the ball goalwards can’t react before Fullbrook snatches it up into her gloves. Needham Market bring Lina Nagib on with 10 minutes of regular time left.

Ellie Rossiter

  Rose winning it well at the back for Wroxham lifting the pass long for Connell 25 yards out an angled shot in rising Cockrill gloves it down to claim on the bounce. Rossiter and Robson enjoying a good battle now as Wroxham look to limit the balls coming into their box from the right. All good natured however Rossiter down with cramp, Robson helping her stretch. Catchpole winning the ball at the back well for Needham Market plays a good ball through for Balfour in attack, Rose getting on her shoulder to defend for Wroxham. Catchpole defending on Forshaw as O’Neill looks to find her with the pass up top. Forshaw coming off now with Eagle being sent back on to join the attack. A one two between Copland and Robson on the left as the defender gets forwards taking on the strike from distance drops wide. 

Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

 Wroxham looking to put some urgency into their play as they look to find a goal with the clock running down. Connell up with Eagle and Russell moving towards the Needham Market box, Fisher taking back to put the tackle in on Russell to regain possession. Rossiter coming off for Needham Market with Etheridge returning to the action, Hubbard quieter in the 2nd half making fewer forward runs nevertheless has plenty left in the tank as she cuts inside from the wing 25 yards out driving for the box Horn stepping out to block her run win back the ball. Nagib getting on the ball right for Needham Market driving up the line holding the ball up Thomas arriving to support her angled ball into the area dealt with by Rose. 

 

  Olive back on for Wroxham with the game heading for stoppage time, plenty of it to be played with the pauses for injuries. Olive taking the ball on from O’Neill in the middle forwards into Copland, Catchpole defending for Needham Market the ball running back to Olive to latch onto 25 yards out drags her volleyed effort wide. Robson off for Wroxham as they throw Forshaw back on. O’Neill with the diagonal ball out to Eagle on the right, brings it down well, striking the shot on the angle from distance frustrated as she only picks out the goalkeeper at the near post.

  Wroxham’s Olive steals onto the ball left side, her cross squared into the area but a heavy touch from Forshaw allows Cooper to clear out into the middle O’Neill getting hold of it 30 plus yards out her shot dipping lands on the roof of the net. A clash of heads between Densley and Thomas sees another break in play both physio’s racing on. No chances taken with Densley coming off for Wroxham. Poppy Nunn and Paige Wakefield also coming on for Needham Market Jo Brawn one of the players off.

Lina Nagib bringing the ball forwards for Needham Market

  GOAL! Deep into stoppage time Needham market regaining the ball on the right wing Wakefield taking it on cleverly winning a free-kick late in the game. Inside the Wroxham half taken quickly with Fisher running into a gap on the right side taking the ball to the top of the area before delivering a looping cross in towards the near post, put on a plate for Balfour drifting in unmarked to coolly nod down into the back of the net to seal the 3 points 0-2.

Lois Balfour centre making it 2-0 to Needham Market late in the game

  The 2nd goal scored in the 96th minute with another 4 minutes of stoppage time to play Needham Market with their tails up chasing the ball down looking to keep it inside Wroxham’s half . Nagib with Fisher looking to hold it up on the right winning a corner kick off Horn, the ball into the six yard box cleared as the final whistle blows, Needham Market celebrate their first ever win in the ERWFL Premier Division.

Full time Wroxham Women 0-2 Needham Market Women

 The late late goal from Lois Balfour sealing the win for Needham Market in what proved to be a tight and intriguing contest between the 2 sides. Giving little away the result could well have gone either way and neither would have complained with a draw. As it was Needham Market scored the all important goals and were strong in defence to limit Wroxham’s chances especially in the 2nd half. Even for large parts the game won on small margins the wins you have to work hard for are always the best. Needham Market took the game to Wroxham 2nd half and in doing so limited the impact their attackers had up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Boy this is a tough one and it is difficult to name a clear winner. Strong performances form both sides, with both looking solid as a unit. Jess Horn won so much at the back for Wroxham whilst Tigi Robson beside her was strong. Tiffany Forshaw making some intelligent runs in behind getting into the box unlucky not to score 1st half. That largely down to Emily Cockrill in goal an impressive debut between the sticks for Needham Market with two fine saves. Ele Catchpole too in defence with some strong defensive wins. Eva Hubbard with her managing running down the flank. The award though goes to Ellie Rossiter took the game to Wroxham 2nd half with so powerful runs getting into some great positions and delivering some dangerous crosses.

 Another entertaining game for the ERWFL Premier Division, never disappoints and Needham Market are another strong addition to it’s ranks. Likewise Wroxham a new look side with a mixture of experience and youth, all the young players impressing will only get better as they play regularly at this level. As usual my thanks to both teams for their help with the team details today especially as I have been experiencing some technical difficulties. Much appreciated. Next up a derby double for the FAWNL a busy week ahead but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

FAWNL South East Division One

Sunday 21st August

Great to be back for another season covering women’s football across the East of England and what a summer it has already been for the game in this country with our Lionesses becoming Champions of Europe! Winning the competition in style with record breaking attendances beating some of the best along the way. Sure everyone has been walking a little taller in training since  and can’t wait for the season to begin. Whatever the legacy from this tournament success might be it’s sure to lead to more coverage, more fans and girls inspired to take up the game, hopefully more funding and sponsorship too as people see the potential for the games growth going forwards.

England’s Lionesses, winning this summer’s UEFA Women’s European Championships

  Excited for the new season to begin the FAWNL and ERWFL competitions kicking off this Sunday. Beginning my season with a trip to the Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC play Norwich City Women in their opening fixture in FAWNL South East Division One. 

  The stalwarts of the league being the only two sides to consistently feature in the 4th tier since the FAWNL was created back in the 2014/15 season. With the formation of the Barclays WSL and the Championship the top 4 tiers of the woman’s pyramid are getting stronger and stronger with each passing season and the demands on clubs to remain competitive grow year on year. Clubs forming closer ties with their respective men’s sides has helped in that growth and today’s opponents have both recently seen their relationship with their men’s club strengthen.

  Cambridge United WFC having established a new women’s board with League One, Cambridge United FC, chaired by Jenny Horfield. This further strengthens the women’s side to the main club and it’s youth section growing as it becomes one of the FA’s new girls emerging talent centres. Intelligent Membranes coming in to sponsor the women’s team shirts the women’s side will benefit from closer ties and resources as it looks to push on up the pyramid.  Staging 4 matches at the Abbey Stadium this season.

  Darren Marjoram joining 1st team coach Ben Yeomans last season as manager, Cambridge United WFC made a solid start to the campaign into the top half and looking to press for a top 4 finish, a disappointing final 3rd to the campaign however saw the club take just one point from their last 7 games that ultimately saw them finish 8th just outside the drop zone. That led to some frank discussions within the club and several players moving on. Youth players ready to step up from the development squad with a few new faces joining. The head line signing being, Sarah Wiltshire, previously on loan at Cambridge United has had playing spells with Man City, Yeovil, Watford and Tottenham, bringing experience and goal scoring ability to the club. Also joining in attack Francesca Partridge previously with Northampton Town Women and midfielder Sammy Edgar who joins from last season’s ERWFL runners up, Royston Town Women.  Ruth Fox top scorer last season netting 14 goals.

  Likewise for Norwich City Women their day to day management is now in house with Championship side Norwich City FC as Norfolk’s leading football club looks to better support it’s women’s side. Bringing in ex-WSL player, Flo Allen as general manager. Thing’s are beginning to move in the right direction for the club after a number of difficult season’s struggling at the bottom of the FAWNL South East Division One table. Moving to The Nest on the northern outskirts of the city to play their home matches taking advantage of a state of the art facility.

 Norwich City Women looked dead and buried last season firmly inside the drop zone with 4 sides going down with 5 games to play. A heavy defeat to start the season against the eventual champions Billericay Town Women, Norwich struggled for points all through the campaign then came the turn around digging deep as a squad Norwich produced a sensational finish winning 4 of their final 5 games to haul themselves out of the bottom four to clinch 7th spot in the table. Have strengthened their squad over the summer bringing in 8 new faces, returning players, Rosie George, Alice Parker and goalkeeper Hope Armstrong. Midfielders, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell joining from fellow Norfolk side and last season’s ERWFL Champions, Wymondham Town Ladies. Defender, Ceri Flye is a strong addition at the back joining from Cambridge City Ladies, along with Naomi Cooper from Wroxham Women and forward Liv Cook from Waveney. 

The Abbey Stadium pitch

As mentioned the Abbey Stadium hosting 4 games for the women’s side this season as the club looks to promote the side. 3 league clashes with Norwich first up followed by local rivals Cambridge City and Actonians Ladies plus a cup match to be announced. The main stand open for the game with the bar area open beneath plus hot food being served. A good atmosphere building the home crowd getting behind the team with Norwich bringing several supporters. The grass pitch in perfect condition lush and green at the start of the season. The weather too  dry and bright, not as hot as in recent weekends favouring playing conditions.

Cambridge United WFC

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Ella Marden, Lauren Rouse, Grace Waygood, Gisella Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Alysha Stojko-Down, Ruth Fox, Sarah Wiltshire & Francesca Partridge. Subs – Abi Davies, Albany Hodgson, Niamh Day, Libby Fraser & Sunny McGregor.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Anna Larkins (C), Alice Parker, Ceri Flye, Chardonnay Johnston, Katie Knights, Rebecca Russell, Ellie Smith, Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling & Freya Symonds. Subs – Summer Ward, Kathryn Stanley, Naomi Cooper, Leilah Gooding & Olivia Cook.

Like to be closer to the action but headed up to the press box for this one to get a better view of the pitch. Sarah Wiltshire, Sammy Edgar and Francesca Partridge all making their competitive starts for Cambridge. Ceri Flye, Katie Knights and Rebecca Russell in the starting XI for Norwich. Norwich to have the kick-off 1st half wearing their 3rd choice kit which I was wondering how to describe but the club has done it for me listed a xenon pink and blue shirt with xenon blue shorts and socks, xenon being obtained by the distillation of liquid air so I’d be inclined to shift towards pastel, still it looks pretty cool. Cambridge lined up opposite in their traditional amber shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball sent long out to Freya Symonds moving left Abbi Griffin defending at right back for Cambridge cleared up to Wiltshire in attack.

Abbi Griffin playing out from the back for Cambridge

Norwich quick to close down the early exchanges frantic the ball put on for Megan Todd out on the right off attack, Ellie Smith coming over to support the pair winning Norwich a series of throws as they look to gain ground on the flank. Cambridge regaining possession on the middle the ball lifted on for Wiltshire on the move left wing, helps it on for Partridge in attack, Norwich captain Anna Larkins close in defending the ball out for a throw. Smith likes to get hold of the ball from midfield and drive forwards with it, bursting forwards into the area left of the D holding off a defender closing in on the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb coming to meet her sliding in to claim the ball at her feet

Ellie Smith on the attack for Norwich

  Could do with some ball boys over on the far side of the pitch as the match ball disappears into the stand for a throw. From the resulting throw Norwich are awarded a free-kick on the left. Rebecca Russell over it for the visitors a good dead ball specialist during her time at Wymondham whips in an angled ball towards the far post goes through everyone out for a goal kick however play is brought back for a raised offside flag. Webb has to be alert inside her box with Norwich looking to close the ball down quickly inside the Cambridge half Alice Parker on the right sending it on for Freya Symonds stealing in between the centre backs, Webb rushing out seeing the threat sliding in to save at the strikers feet.

Norwich’s Freya Symonds with Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

   Norwich certainly looking to pressure Cambridge on the ball force errors, nipping in to regain possession from a throw right side Smith brings the ball under control turns in field squaring it to Russell 25 yards out top of the D, she lays it forwards into the area for Natasha Snelling looking to break in behind the pass a little heavy out for a goal kick. Numbers up to close the ball down Norwich quickly regain possession as Cambridge look to break on through the middle Russell lining up a shot from outside the box left of the D racing low towards the bottom corner, Webb down smartly to save. Smith is proving a nuisance for the Cambridge defence as she looks to power forwards with the ball, Ella Marden at left back getting the tackle in to take the ball away from her as she turns inside. 

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

  Cambridge taking their time to find their rhythm having made a nervous start, looking for Fox and Wiltshire out on the flanks in attack the ball comes left for Wiltshire pushed on for Partridge who uses her body well to hold up the ball playing it back to her captain Gisella Otten in the middle before spinning in behind, Otten looking to thread the pass into her plays it too straight allowing Bryony Williams to collect unopposed inside the Norwich box. Katie Knights for Norwich and Sammy Edgar for Cambridge are too uncompromising ball winning midfielders a competitive tussle forming in the middle of the park. Edgar putting a strong tackle in on Smith as she attempts to drive on with the ball once more Smith winning the free-kick in front of the centre circle.

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

 Chardonnay Johnston to play the ball short to Smith pulling to the right in space sending an angled cross in to be attacked beyond the far post Symonds with a glancing header the ball wide. Cambridge coming back at Norwich better now as they look to push bodies forwards hustle possession in Norwich’s half. Edgar in strong to win the ball taking it forwards towards the edge of the area left of the D plays in inside to Partridge top of the D, can’t quite take it in her stride as she looks to see the ball across her and shoot. Smith’s driving runs with the ball a constant danger have the Cambridge defence back peddling almost succeeds in sending the pass on for Snelling, Webb though alert to the danger again out quickly to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb getting hold of the ball

  Fox out on the right takes the ball off Johnston at the back and races on down the flank putting an early looped cross into the six yard box, is just over Wiltshire who has drifted in to the near post area.

  GOAL! No sooner have Norwich almost carved out a chance one end then Cambridge get up the other end and open the scoring. Webb quick to realise the ball helped on up to Partridge positioned right of the D some 25 yards out not closed down turns on the ball and catches the strike superbly to smash the ball home for her first Cambridge goal 1-0.

Francesca Partridge celebrating scoring her 1st Cambridge goal!

  Closing on on 20 minutes played the deadlock broke a fantastic strike from Francesca Partridge. Norwich get straight on the attack from the restart Cambridge caught napping as Tod steals clear on the right into the box wide of goal closing in on the by-line sends a cross in Webb down to claim. Knights busy in the centre getting her challenges in winning the ball for Norwich her diagonal pass finding Symonds in the right channel, shifts inside shaping to shoot, Otten throwing herself in harms way to block it. Alysha Stojko-Down on with the ball for Cambridge out to Wiltshire on the left squares it into Partridge, Knights tracking back to defend for Norwich.

Norwich midfielder, Katie Knights

   Parker is down needing treatment a chance for both sides to take on fluids an even contest now after a bright start from Norwich. Larkins travelling on with the ball in space for Norwich playing a great diagonal pass into the area for Snelling to bring down left of the goal, Webb coming to close looks to chip it on, Webb getting the faintest of touches falls straight to Smith central the flag up against her before she can unleash her shot. Cambridge feed the ball up the line left for Partridge is fouled by Knights winning a free kick 30 yards out. Wiltshire over the ball takes the shot on her effort over the goal. 

  GOAL! Norwich have possession in the middle a speculative pass played forwards, Waygood goes to cut it out for Cambridge sliding onto the ball is a miscue as the ball deflects off her foot in behind left straight for Symonds racing in taking the ball on into the area Webb coming looks to strike the shot high over her Webb getting her gloves up getting something on the ball but unfortunately straight down into path of Snelling running in central to tap the ball home for six yards for her 1st goal of the season 1-1.

Natasha Snelling equalises for Norwich

  Cambridge advance down the left from the restart Wiltshire winning the hosts their first corner of the game. Wiltshire to play it into the area goes long beyond the far post Fox their to meet it inside the six yard box a good header down towards goal, Williams in goal down sharply to make the blocking save the ball turned away to the left retrieved by Wiltshire angles the ball back in towards goal, Williams back on her feet claiming it. Both sides looking to add to the score line Norwich finding Todd wide right shifts inside her cross fizzed in cut out Smith latching onto the rebound outside the box smashing it goalwards, Waygood with the block.

Ruth Fox connects with the header for Cambridge

  Smith brought own on the right a free-kick for Norwich 35 yards out, Russell over it the cross into the far post through everyone. Waygood showing a good turn of pace at the back to recover get back on Snelling clear for a throw as she is played in on the right channel for Norwich. Griffin with a diagonal pass long looking for Wiltshire wide left, Ceri Flye winning the header for Norwich at the back. Competitive in the middle a few challenges flying in Norwich finding Symonds left outside the area playing it into Snelling finds room to squeeze a shot away her stabbed effort blocked by Lauren Rouse. 

Laruen Rouse holding off Norwich’s Natasha Snelling

  Into stoppage time at the end of a lively first half the ball fed into Symonds from the left controls well shifting it twice between her feet inside the area as the Cambridge defence close her down, nevertheless gets a shot away threatening to creep into the bottom corner Webb wrongfooted initially scrambling back to throw herself at the ball palm it away to safety. Norwich finishing the half strong Russell’s free kick bringing a corner Cambridge heading clear as the half draws to a close.  

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Norwich City Women

  Honours even at the end of the first half the sides drawing 1-1. Norwich starting the brighter putting Cambridge under pressure forcing errors the hosts looking nervous taking a little time to settle into the game the visitors with chances to open the scoring before Francesca Partridge scored in the 18th minute with a superb strike to give Cambridge the lead. Norwich kept going a mix up at the back leading to them scoring the equalising goal past the half hour. Cambridge forcing a top class save from Williams unlucky not to be leading at the break. All to play for 2nd half.

Norwich’s Rebecca Russell

  An injury for Symonds in the first half she is replaced by Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge unchanged getting the 2nd half underway, Otten sending it long to the left for Wiltshire, Larkins defending, both Otten and Edgar snapping in to win the ball keep the momentum with the hosts as they look to make a fast start to the 2nd half the Norwich defence getting in their blocks standing firm, Intent from Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half Edgar rushing in to win the ball out to Fox on the right turns inside tackled by Johnston. 

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins

 Cambridge attacking Fox on the ball wins the hosts a corner out on the right played in beyond the far post Edgar getting her head on the ball her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. Norwich riding out the early Cambridge storm the game settling down into a more even contest both sides vying for the ball. The visitors with a throw on the right half way inside the Cambridge half Smith bringing it down turning inside shaping to curl a shot in towards goal, is an unfortunately block from Todd in front of her to deflect the ball away for a goal kick.

Norwich’s Alice Parker with Cambridge’s Ruth Fox

  Cambridge inviting a bit of pressure as Norwich are strong out of possession looking to hustle players into rushing passes making errors. Flye across to defend on Wiltshire as Marden looks to lift the ball on up the flank. Fox on the right spins off her marker well getting in behind on the wing lifting a cross into the area Johnston up to head the ball away at the near post conceding a corner. Played in long knocked back in Edgar attacking it deflected behind for another corner. The in swinger snatched down well by Williams.

Norwich goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

  Todd looks to bring the ball down out left as the clearance is lifted up to her Rouse getting a foot in t take the ball away conceding a corner kick played in from the left across the six yard box Snelling stretching beyond the six yard box sends the ball wide. 

Norwich’s Megan Todd

  GOAL! Past the hour mark Norwich have been getting plenty forwards in attack and over whelm the right side Larkins up with Stanley driving on to the by line into the box cuts the cross back into the top of the six yard box players lining up to meet it comes to Snelling to stab home for her 2nd of the game to put the visitors into the lead 1-2.

Natasha Snelling celebrates after she puts Norwich into the lead

  Cambridge suffering a blow trailing at home look to get on down the right Griffin up with Fox, Parker defending the out for a goal kick. Norwich’s Smith gets hold of the ball in the final third 25 yards out central the pass short inti Stanley right of the D, plays in inside the area to Snelling ahead of her closed down the ball back with Stanley sees Larkins racing forwards wide left picking her out the full back striking her shot over on the angle. Norwich looking strong getting players forwards  forcing Norwich back making it difficult for them to find their own attacking players.

   Marden picking up a knock Cambridge making a change at the back with Albany Hodgson coming on. Norwich winning a corner on the right a good ball into the six yard box dealt with well by Edgar at the near post with a good header for Cambridge. Griffin out from the back on for Partridge in attack, free for a moment a good turn of pace form Flye to get across and clear the ball for a throw. The ball never still for long particularly in the middle pinging back and forth Cambridge have the break Wiltshire central laying it off to Partridge drifting right, shapes to shoot Johnston throwing herself into the block to deny her from 20 yards out.

Chardonnay Johnston defending for Norwich

   A free -kick for Cambridge wide right 30 or so yards out Wiltshire takes on the shot a dangerous ball in dropping late has Williams needing to pluck it down to safety back on her goal line. 

  GOAL! Into the final 15 minutes , Griffin is left in a heap as she is dispossessed half way inside the Cambridge half on the right, Smith racing on with the ball down the channel taking it inside the box closing in on goal blasting a shot at Webb the keeper down spreading herself to make the save the ball not under control deflects up and into Smith to collect on the rebound and turn home at the 2nd attempt 1-3.

Ellie Smith making the block on Fox scoring Norwich’s 3rd goal

  Worse for Cambridge, Griffin hurt from the initial challenge that led to the goal can’t continue a 2nd change enforced with Abi Davies on. Edgar with a talking too from the referee after another robust tackle. Norwich from the resulting free-kick 30 yards out Russell putting her effort over the bar. Time ticking down for Cambridge to get themselves back into the match with a free kick top of the circle. Wiltshire decides to have a pop at goal, is close by Williams can see it safely onto the roof of her net. 

 Norwich making their 2nd change of the game with Smith the player coming off to be replaced by Liv Cook. Stojko-Down heads the ball on for Partridge inside the box, Johnston and Flye closing her down wins her side a corner. Played in from the right to the far post is turned wide. Stojko-Down comes off for Cambridge, on comes Sunny McGregor for the closing stages with time running out for Cambridge to find a goal.

  GOAL! One minute of regular time left on the clock and the back of the net is found one last time as Norwich break up a Cambridge attack the ball into full back Larkins on the right looks to send it long is a brilliant ball up into the box with substitute Liv Cook pulling in behind at the near post looking to see it drop over her shoulder and shoot, before she can she is brought down by Hodgson the referee pointing to the spot penalty! Snelling on a hat-trick placing the ball on the spot makes no mistake sending the keeper the wrong way placing the ball centrally lifting it into the back of the net 1-4. 

Natasha Snelling scores from the penalty spot to complete her hat-trick

  Snelling’s last action of the game as she comes off to be replaced by Leilah Gooding. Stoppage time being played. Cambridge find Partridge pulling away left of the D her attempted a lob defending the ball falling to Wiltshire 30 yards out her strike from distance held by the keeper. Another change for Cambridge with Niamh Day on for Fox. Edgar picking up a late yellow card as thing’s get heated in the circle between her, Knights and Russell. Todd wins a corner for Norwich defended Webb sending the ball long for Partridge in attack a shot from the edge of the box is cleanly caught by Williams.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-4 Norwich City Women

  Norwich starting their campaign with a win on the opening day. A confidence boosting result with a strong 2nd half to claim victory. A competitive contest the visitors making a good start to the game taking the game to Cambridge before the hosts settled and went on to open the scoring. A mistake leading to the equaliser Cambridge nevertheless with chances to lead at half-time started the 2nd half with intent but after riding that out Norwich looked strong taking the game to their opponents getting players forwards pressing the ball taking the lead on the hour adding a 3rd with less than 15 minutes left. Cambridge pushing on searching for a reply, conceding a late penalty to see Natasha Snelling claim her hat-trick. The final score maybe a little harsh on Cambridge, Norwich playing well for the 3 points, will be alot happier than they were this time last season for sure.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the season. Sometimes they are easy but most of the time it’s a tough decision. Players to mention from both sides, starting with Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire working hard up front to run the channel make herself available press the defence on the ball. Francesca Partridge making a solid debut, please to say Women’s Football East is sponsoring her for the season. Showed good presence up top and scored a fantastic goal. For Norwich, Ceri Flye made an impressive debut in defence with a number of well timed tackles good positioning throughout. Katie Knights was busy in the middle breaking up play and Ellie Smith always impresses whenever I see her in action a strong runner on the ball her driving runs form the middle had Cambridge on the back foot constantly. Today’s award goes to their hat-trick scorer,  Natasha Snelling. Took her goals well with some great runs during the match to get into the box and bring her teammates into play.

  Great to start a new season, an enjoyable afternoon at the Abbey Stadium a good crowd of 64 in attendance that showed their appreciation to Cambridge despite the result. Squad lists after the saviour to a match report writer but I appreciate getting the team sheets nonetheless. Looking forwards t the season ahead, actually have the next months games planned already but I’m not jinxing it by telling anyone what they are. It’s good to be back.

by Darren Gilham

Archive – Young Lionesses U17 Euro’s 2013 – Group Round-up

Archive – 1st published on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog 2nd December 2013

UEFA Women’s U17 Championship – England progress

Last Tuesday saw the start of UEFA’s Women’s U17 Championships which saw England in competition with 7 other qualifying nations. Having enjoyed watching a few of the Women’s U19 Euro matches in the summer I really wanted to go see what the next age group coming through had to offer so booked the tickets to go and see all of England’s group matches.
The 4 venues chosen to host these Championship matches were, Chesterfield FC, Burton Albion, Hinckley & AFC Telford. The 8 participating nations were drawn into 2 groups of 4 with the top 2 in each progressing through to the semi-final stage. England were drawn in Group A along side Italy, Austria & Portugal. Group B was made up of Germany, France, Spain & Scotland.

England’s 1st game was against Italy on 26th Nov at AFC Telford taking the day off work for a 12:30 kick off AFC Telford is a nice modern stadium with one large stand running the length of the pitch, terracing either end packed with school children and the England band in town it was a great atmosphere the kids loving it making plenty of noise as the two teams put on a very good display of flowing high tempo football that was end to end (very un-Italian like) without really creating any clear cut chances on goal in fact it was the defenders who stood out the most England Captain Leah Williamson and her defensive partner Gabriel George played very well the game was heading for a 0-0 probably a fair result too however football’s not always fair and Italy were making some good runs into the box late on 1 shot took a deflection and Italy claimed the win with just minutes to play. Austria and Portugal played out a 0-0 which was as far as England were concerned a great result.
In Group B Germany won despite a strong Scotland fightback 4-2 with Spain beating France 2-0.

Onto Friday 29th Nov and group game no 2 this time a 7:00 kick off at Chesterfield’s Proact Stadium a new built stadium and very impressive. England’s opponents Austria, after an opening day defeat England really needed a win. A Friday night with no school parties to attend the crowd was nevertheless in excess of 2000 turned out along with the band to watch the same England side that had started against Italy struggle early on to cope with Austria’s flank players driving into the box and it was from one of these Austria scored the opening goal. England needed a response Ashleigh Plumptre coming in from the left was causing Austria problems and it was she who scored the equaliser to make it 1-1 at the break.
The 2nd half was totally different England came out the stronger were the ones asking Austria questions and it was Lucy Porter whom had just come on who tucked the ball home from an inch perfect cross from midfielder Keira Walsh from the edge of the box and England won 2-1. Italy clinched their place in the semi’s beating Portugal 2-0. In Group B Scotland kept their hopes of qualifying alive with a 0-0 draw with Spain whilst Germany beat France 4-0 to reach the semi’s themselves.

Now onto today Monday 2nd December and the final round of group matches. Up against Portugal a 12:30 kick off at Burton Albion the most straight forwards of my 3 journeys so far so you would think it was a total nightmare hold ups everywhere and the less said about road ‘improvements’ in Nottingham the better still got there just in time loads of kids again and the band they really know how to get a crowd going, so long as you’re not sitting next to the drummer. A draw would see England progress to the semi’s however a Portugal win would see them qualify at our expense so what England really needed was an early goal and on 11 mins midfielder Mollie Rouse rifled a shot into the back of the net England were dominant with Atlanta Primus (daughter of ex premier league footballer Linvoy Primus) making her 1st start in the tournament on the left England were strong a 2nd goal was scored through no 7 Evie Clarke then a 3rd minutes later this time headed in by Atlanta Primus. On the stroke of half time Portugal pulled a goal back to give them hope through Carolina Ferreira. The 2nd half however was again dominated by England, Portugal could not cope with their strength and movement and the 4th goal was scored by striker Chloe Kelly. The Portuguese keeper Catarina Barradas brought down an England player in the box and was sent off on 50 mins her replacement unable to save the penalty taken by England’s right back Alice Hassall. The final goal England’s 6th was headed in from a corner by Lucy Porter and England reached the semi finals in emphatic fashion with what will be huge confidence and belief. In the other match Austria got a 1-0 over Italy and finish 3rd in the group. In Group B Scotland needed a win coupled with a Spanish defeat to go through sadly they were beaten 1-0 by France, whilst Spain stole top spot in the group from Germany by beating them 4-0.
Thus the semi-final line up will be Italy v Germany & Spain v England two fascinating matches the final will be a hard one to call I’m certainly not going to do so. I have been very impressed with the standard of football on display it has been a very good advert for the women’s game especially for the young children who have attended the games the venues have been very good and the attendances for the games I’ve been to excellent. Roll on the semi-finals…