Monthly Archives: January 2023

Match Report – Bungay Town Ladies v UEA FC Women

Sunday 29th Jan

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

 Much improved weather this weekend and a host of exciting matches to choose from. Today’s football coming from the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup a tasty looking line up with a trip to Maltings Meadow to watch Bungay Town Ladies v UEA FC Women.

A strong quarter final line-up in this season’s Norfolk Women’s League Cup won last season in a penalty shootout with Fakenham Town Ladies coming out on top to beat Mulbarton Belles Ladies. Neither side in this season’s competition with Fakenham stepping up a level to play regional level football. Mulbarton one of the favourite’s knocked out by UEA  FC Women in the previous round. All 8 sides left will fancy their chances of reaching this season’s final.

Bungay Town Ladies have plenty of league matches left to play like Mulbarton only 5 played to date their last league match back in November, seeing them lay 8th with 2 wins and 3 losses will be hoping to build on their recent cup form to push on when the league campaign finally resumes. A long established side within the NWGFL enjoying strong support from their respective men’s club have come through turbulent off the field beginning the new campaign under a new management team headed up by Darren Renwick.

 While Bungay’s league programme might have stalled, have found form in the cup competitions reaching the last 4 of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup with wins over Halesworth Town Women and Ipswich Vale Exiles Ladies. Will face Suffolk Premier Division leaders. Brettvale Ladies in the semi-finals. Also reaching the last 8 of the League Cup beating North Walsham Town Ladies 3-0 at home in the previous round with Maddie Flatman, Lauren Goulder and Lauren Purling al on the score sheet. Selina Rowland often prolific in an attacking midfield role leading goal scorer with 5 to date. Met UEA FC Women on the opening day of the season away from home losing 3-2.

UEA FC Women (or at least a previous version of the side) was one of the main reason’s the Supporting Women’s Football Blog and then Women’s Football East evolved the way it did. Incidentally was also a league cup quarter final back in 2014 UEA hosting Fakenham coming out on top in a thrilling 4-3 encounter that made me realise I got as much excitement form watching a game at county level as I did the WSL, covered plenty of county league games since.

This UEA FC Women (University of East Anglia) team is into it’s 2nd season and proving to be a strong outfit. Winning promotion from Division Two in their debut season finishing 2nd behind Caister FC Ladies. Have hit the ground running in Division One win 3 straight wins to start the campaign, just the one defeat from 6 played so far. Freya Fuller with playing experience for Billericay and Norwich leading goal scorer with 11 from 6 appearances. Into the last 8 of the League Cup with a 7-0 away win against FC Viking & Valkyries FC Women in the 1st Round, going on to record a memorable result away to one of the cup favourites in the 2nd Round beating Mulbarton 2-1 courtesy of goals from Ella Burnley and Rachael Lawrence. 

Maltings Meadow the venue for today’s tie, has been a while since I last visited, pre Covid for sure but it remains a hive off activity very much a community feel about the place, several youth matches taking place on the grass pitches surrounding the man pitch. Over looked by the changing rooms and clubhouse. The grass pitch having suffered like so many others with the recent bad weather, a little soft under foot likely to cut up. Offers decent width, a small covered seated stand to one side fenced all round. Pretty gloomy and over cast prior to kick-off with a stiff breeze blowing across the pitch. 

Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Amber Leeks, Porcha Renwick, Ruby Roos, Ciera Flatt, Sofia Serghiou, Charnelle Riggall (C), Selina Rowland, Lauren Purling, Phoebe Wakefield, Lucy Wood & Lauren Goulder. Subs – Erin Galer.

UEA FC Women

 UEA FC Women starting XI – Anoushka Williamson, Katie Lee, Olivia Seeley, Maddison Goodenough, Darcey Coombs, Lucy Gooding (C), Prini Woods, Hannah Thompson, Mia Everitt, Cass Piejko & Ella Burnley. Subs – Lily Brewer, Emily Wilson & Amber Long. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Charnelle Riggall of Bungay and UEA’s Lucy Gooding before kick-off

  Bungay come into the game struggling for numbers with a few out trough injury and unavailability. Signing Ruby Roos on the day to give them more than the bare 11. UEA fresh from fielding two teams in midweek BUC’s fixtures naming 3 on the bench. Bungay also known as the ‘Black Dogs’ to get the tie underway wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks. UEA lined up opposite wearing an all dark blue kit with yellow trim on the shirts.

The ball going all the way back to goalkeeper Amber Leeks, she sends the ball long out to the right for Phoebe Wakefield to attack, the threat dealt with by UEA full back Olivia Seeley put out for a throw in. UEA looking to get the ball moving across the pitch early on moving it from one full back to the other Katie Lee at right back bringing the ball forwards on for Cass Piejko down the flank, Porsha Renwick stepping in to tackle for Bungay prevent the cross. Piejko in possession again on the right putting the ball inside for captain Lucy Gooding her attempted through ball having a little too much on it for attacker Ella Burnley to run onto inside the box, goal kick.

Bungay’s Porsha Renwick

UEA keeping the ball moving it swiftly in midfield Gooding back to Hannah Thompson looks to send it on up top for Burnley to attack, Sofia Serghiou in close to defend for Bungay top of the D.

GOAL! UEA capitalising on their positive start getting forwards to score an early goal. The ball at the feet of Prini Woods on halfway passes it into Thompson out on the right, lifts the ball on up towards the top of the area right of the D, Burnley pulling off the defence, with a controlled header to knock the ball up and away from her marker to the right of goal catching it sweetly on the volley as it falls to rifle it home past the keeper to score 0-1.

Ella Burnley opens the scoring for UEA

An early blow for Bungay falling behind within the opening 5 minutes, have a free-kick over half way. The ball sent up towards the area UEA’s defence heading clear. Piejko looking to get forwards with the ball clattered into play brought back for the free-kick. Darcey Coombs over it the defender getting a bit of wind assist as she strikes the ball long past the far post. Bungay are a little static allowing UEA to find their passes Piejko getting away on the right driving for the corner Renwick gets back at her well to challenge win her side the throw in.

UEA FC Women’s Cass Piejko

Selina Rowland picking the ball up deep for Bungay driving forwards moving left cuts the ball back on the diagonal looking for Wakefield, Coombs with a timely interception at the back for UEA. Roos playing at right back for Bungay has a good throw on her as use tool to have as it will often draw more opposition players in towards the ball. Woods on for Gooding out to Burnley peeling away into the left channel looking to get into the box, Ciera Flatt back at her doing enough to halt the attack see off the danger.

Ruby Roos tackling UEA’s Ella Burnley

Burnley keeping the Bungay defence occupied moving across the back line sees the ball into her feet well right of the D, Piejko providing the run from the right the ball laid into her path struck on the angle, Leeks in the Bungay goal down sharply inside her six yard box to make the save. Bungay losing possession in the final 3rd out on the right Burnley stealing it powering into the box, getting away from tackle shifting right to strike the ball in low towards goal, put straight at the keeper, Leeks saving comfortably.

Bungay attacker, Lauren Goulder

   Little opportunity for Bungay’s attackers to test the UEA defence so far, Lauren Goulder having come into midfield for the ball turns and puts her foot through the ball all of 35 yards out, left of the goal, gets plenty of power races wide of the right post. The sun poking through now some blue sky doing absolutely nothing to improve the temperature mind. Bungay are giving UEA time on the ball allowing them to get forwards inviting pressure without applying any themselves. Rowland attempting to change things getting onto the ball and pushing forwards linking up with Goulder in attack the diagonal ball to the right has a little too much on it for Wakefield.

UEA FC Women’s Olivia Seeley

   UEA play the ball across the back from Seeley to Lee on the right coming on with the ball lifting the pass up top for Burnley turns into the shot 20 yards out her shot blocked by Serghiou, the rebound skipping up for Piejko to the right of the D to strike on the half volley leaning back does catch it as cleanly as liked the ball looping up brushing the side netting as it falls. The visitors winning the ball in midfield Woods into Thompson into Mia Everitt on the left takes the ball on down the flank, Roos tackling slowing Everitt’s advance 20 yards out sends the ball in across the top of the area, Burnley meeting it on the half volley struck in low skipping up in front of the keeper Leeks with an excellent save dropping low to her right to knock the ball behind for a corner kick. 

UEA’s Mia Everitt

  The corner played in from the left, met by Roos before the near post her header putting the ball back towards the UEA corner taker, crossed back in, Darcey Coombs coming onto it near post tuning inside the six yard box lifting her shot over from close range. Woods able to travel with the ball in midfield picking out Burnley in attack as the striker pulls away to the left, looking to get around Roos into the box, isn’t the cleanest of challenges but nevertheless gets the job done halting the attack.

  GOAL! Short lived as UEA continue press the advantage able to come on with the ball through the middle Bungay sitting off played on into Piejko moving inside from the right has Gooding up with her shifts the ball into her feet UEA’s captain realising the ball forwards before she is caught brought down with a late tackle, referee Ryan Starkey playing a good advantage as the ball runs through into the box for Burnley getting across her defender to put her foot through the ball slot it past the keeper before Leeks can react 0-2.

Captain Lucy Gooding releasing the ball forwards prior to being tackled

Two goals for Ella Burnley

   A strong opening 20 minutes from taking a 2 goal lead. A pause in play however as Gooding is still down from the tackle, after on field treatment she is up and hobbling can’t continue is brought off her replacement Amber Long a straight swap in the middle. The break in play an opportunity for Bungay to regroup, Rowland forwards from the restart looking to be aggressive on the ball brought down by Lee. Woods the next UEA player to up end Rowland as the midfielder looks to be pro active on the ball combine with Lauren Purling going forwards. 

Selina Rowland looking to take the game to UEA

  Certainly a more competitive Bungay side now looking to match UEA across the middle get into them. The fence could do with anther rail at the bottom to stop the ball sneaking out under it and players having to hurdle over it… plus myself having to collect it. Goodenough bringing the ball out from the back for UEA well, Purling tracking back to put the tackle in for Bungay, then Renwick comes to close down Long as the substitute breaks forwards from the middle for the visiting side. Piejko wide right whipping a dipping cross in towards the near post Serghiou lunging in to cut it out behind for a corner, Renwick coming on left side up to Goulder looking for Wood making a run up the left flank, Lee stretching out cut the pass out.

Bungay’s Sofia Serghiou

  Different game no since the loss of Gooding in midfield with Bungay regrouping becoming more competitive. Purling carrying the ball forwards from halfway for Bungay to the left has support with Wakefield play a one two before Purling lifts it into the channel for Wakefield to attack, Goodenough getting back at her to take the ball off her feet away to the right Wakefield closing in on the by-line sends her cross behind. 

Darcey Coombs and Lauren Goulder challenging for the ball

  Burnley continues to pull off the defence ready to run in behind waiting for the pass from midfield, almost picked out to the left, Flatt reading it well to get her foot it tackle take the ball from the striker Roos round on the cover to clear. Bungay with a free-kick won wide on the right Flatt on the ball as players go forwards into the box lifted in towards a crowded far post area Rowland up well inside the six yard box heading the ball down straight at the keeper, Anoushka Williamson with an instinctive save can’t hold onto the ball loose is grounded in the ensuing scramble the ball stolen away cleared. Williamson down needing treatment, is okay to play on.

Maddison Goodenough coming forwards from the back for UEA

   Bungay’s best chance of the game giving them the belief they aren’t out of this tie captain Charnelle Riggall passing into Rowland picks out Purling right inside the box goes to shot across the keeper find the bottom corner Williamson down smartly to smother the ball. Burnley beating the offside trap to run clear on the box to the right of goal shoots low, Leeks down well to block it the ball not claimed Burnley attempting to reach it challenged the ball swerving away for a corner. 

Bungay’s Phoebe Wakefield

  Late in the first half Woods with space finding Piejko out wide right, Riggall coming back to help defend winning the ball back for Bungay. Goodenough still up the pitch from an earlier set piece looking to get control of the ball wide left, Roos adjusting well the lung in win the ball back as the visitors look to mount a late charge. UEA with a free kick wide on the left flighted in towards the far post, bouncing not attacked Leeks able to take without challenge.

Half-time Bungay Town Ladies 0-2 UEA FC Women

  A strong start to the game from UEA, allowed time on the ball looking to move it crisply across the pitch exploit the flanks, Burnley a good foil up top moving about into the channels bringing the ball down superbly for the opening goal inside five minutes. Bungay static at times allowing their opponents to have the ball a 2nd goal coming on 20 minutes. That also seeing a pause in play with the withdrawal of Gooding from the UEA midfield. Bungay much more competitive after that matching UEA in the middle looking to get forwards better with a strong chance to pull one back before the break. UEA still very much a threat in attack with Burnley looking to find openings. Both keepers called into action. 2-0 often a tricky score line with the next goal having a meaningful effect either way.

  UEA to get the 2nd period underway neither side making a change. Bungay move in quickly t get after the ball won by Rowland in the middle turns to attack forwards into Goulder left inside the box crossed into the six yard box cut out Coombs turned behind for a corner. Floated into the near post UEA comfortable in defending it. Certainly a more aggressive encounter now a few pushes and shoulder barges the soft pitch favouring the sliding tackle, the mud stains building. Rowland wearing most of it. 

UEA’s Hannah Thompson with Bungay’s Ciera Flatt

  Bungay winning a free-kick on the flank deep put in to the top of the D by Flatt, Purling twisting her neck to try and get some power in her header, glances it on safely through for Williamson to catch high. The battle of the 8’s in the middle sees Rowland fouling Long UEA winning the set-piece players up to the top of the area a flare up between Burnley and Flatt a bit of pushing quick brought under control by Ryan Starkey both players with a talking to and a card shown. Lee to put the ball into the area Bungay heading it away safely. 

Selina Rowland

  UEA making a change out on the left bringing off Everitt with Lily Brewer coming on. Lee fouled as she travels forwards on the left. Over the set-piece herself lifted into the far post attacked the ball knocked down into the keeper Leeks down getting something on it the ball loose inside the box struck goalwards cleared off the line to the right and launched clear for a corner. UEA keeping the pressure on the ball sent into the box headed on by Coombs beyond the far post the resulting strike smashed over. 

  Very much a committed contest now several robust challenges more clumsy than malicious has the potential to flare up but the captains are keeping an eye on things. Rowland combining with Riggall as Bungay make progress into the final 3rd the cross in claimed by the keeper. Coombs cutting the pass out at the back as Rowland attempts to put the ball into Purling’s path. Purling getting forwards well for Bungay looking to get on pulling left Lee tackling to stop her getting in behind to cross.

Captain Charnelle Riggall bringing the ball on for Bungay

   Bungay putting pressure on the ball in the final 3rd Purling coming in from the left firing it across the D to Riggall forwards on the right, shifting the ball closed down can’t find room for a shot deflected up central Rowland latching onto it to break clear of the defence blasts a shot in Williamson with a smart instinctive save to deny her, Rowland adjudged to have handled the ball as she looks to get it back under control. 

UEA’s Katie Lee

  UEA with a rapid counter attack forwards into Burnley on the attack right channel Flatt getting back at her to win the ball back. A third change for UEA with Emily Wilson coming on for Woods in midfield midway through the 2nd half. Thompson getting onto the ball in midfield finding room now to attack forwards for Burnley right channel pulling away from the defence to shoot on the angle in low batted away well by Leeks getting to the floor sharply. 

  Riggall moving forwards on the ball laying it on for Purling linking with Goulder up top, Goodenough moving in to break up the attack. Renwick onto Woods on the left flank for Bungay on the attack finds Rowland in the middle, challenged by Goodenough. Bungay press well keeping numbers up in the final 3rd the ball coming to Purling 20 out her strike straight at the keeper. UEA can afford to sit back a little with a 2 goal lead to defend wait to hit Bungay on the counter.

Bungay’s Lauren Purling

 Rowland working well in the midfield on to Goulder in attacker finds Wood out wide has support from Purling on the over lap her cross in cut out by Wilson at the near post. Riggall pulling wide right floating a diagonal ball in close to UEA’s near post turned narrowly wide by the defence for a corner. The strong challenges remain a feature of the game Burnley tackling Flatt then Goodenough feeling one as she and Rowland lung for the ball. Thompson taking out Purling top of the circle giving Bungay a free-kick with less than 15 minutes left to play. The ball flighted in to the top of the area UEA clear threaten to counter, Wakefield back to cover defending on the right.

Bungay’s Lucy Wood

  A corner for Bungay on the right half cleared, Riggall collects puts it back to Flatt to strike a shot from 25 yards out right of the D sent wide. Piejko out wide right with a clever flick to take the ball inside wrong foot her marker, Flatt quick to react at the back able to cover the ground get to the ball before Piejko can steer it on into the box. A foul on Purling brought down on half way players up as Flatt launches it forwards, Purling’s deft flick on into the box not quite finding Goulder to the right of goal as Goodenough clears. 

 Riggall with a strike from distance sent over as the clock runs down. Bungay pressing for a goal UEA content to sit soak up the pressure. A clearance lifted up to Thompson in midfield opts to have a crack at goal from distance on target bouncing up sharply inside the six yard before Leeks but back on her line she has the room to adjust and claim. The final whistle blows and UEA celebrate as they book their place in the last 4 of the league cup.

Full time Bungay Town Ladies 0-2 UEA FC Women

  The opening 20 minutes proving decisive in the match a strong opening from UEA getting on the attack moving the ball well opening the scoring inside 5 minutes going on to make it 2 before Bungay finally got going have been static, were much improved getting after their opponents coming close to pulling a goal back. A tasty affair with some robust tackling a committed contest. Bungay pushing all 2nd half to find a goal taking a few risks at the back. UEA soaking things up well comfortable defending a 2 goal lead ready to counter try and score the 3rd to put the tie beyond doubt. UEA will be joined in the last 4 by Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women who came through extra time to beat Long Stratton 5-2. Thetford Town Ladies who won 2-1 against Sprowston FC Women and Caister FC Ladies who won 5-0 away to Division Two side Blofield United Ladies.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Is once again another tough one with 3 players vying for the award. Several performances of note to mention first. For Bungay Selina Rowland was strong on the middle battling for the ball taking it on and looking for goal scoring opportunities, as was Lauren Purling getting forwards making herself available for the ball. For UEA it was a strong team performance particularly through the spine of the side the midfield competitive Prini Woods passing well, Hannah Thompson covering the ground win the ball back get it moving forwards. At the back Maddison Goodenough put in a number of challenges and interceptions with great positioning throughout and narrowly misses out. With her goals proving the difference in the tie today’s award goes to Ella Burnley took the first goal superbly. With the nature of the game and Bungay sitting back was often left alone up top but showed great movement and running off the ball to find pockets of space between the midfield and defence always an option for the forward pass.

  Great to return to Maltings Meadow see both sides in action a competitive cup tie played in reasonably good spirits. Pleasure to meet the management teams off both sides and for the clubs help with the team details as always much appreciated. look forward to the semi-final draw.  

by Darren Gilham

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

Sunday 22nd January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

 A later than arranged kick-off time for today’s featured match on Women’s Football East with today’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup 3rd Round tie between Long Stratton Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women moved to Easton College’s 3G pitch due to the pitches at Manor Road being frozen.

 Another weekend seeing numerous games called off across the East and beyond due to the cold weather, the fixtures beginning to pile up for some teams. Both of today’s opponents keen to get today’s match on (already postponed from last weekend) with the pair also scheduled to meet in the quarter finals of the League Cup next weekend.

 A place in the last eight of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup up for grabs with the seeded teams, Norwich City Women, Wroxham Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies entering the competition. The draw having already taken place seeing Long Stratton or Dussindale & Hellesdon avoiding one of the seeded teams a huge opportunity present itself to reach the last 4 of the competition.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women the form team in Norfolk Women’s Division One leading the table by 8 points losing just one of their 9 games played to date. A strong looking squad scoring plenty of goals, Shanice Sutton leading the way in the goal scoring charts for Dussindale & Hellesdon netting 19 goals to date from 8 matches played. A bye in the first round of the County Cup won away from home 5-0 to Division Town newcomers Aylsham FC Women to book their spot in the 3rd Round. Have played Long Stratton twice in the league already this season, with Long Stratton imposing their only league defeat 4-2 at home back at the start of October. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning the reverse fixture 6-2 at the end of the same month.

Set to face Dussindale & Hellesdon at home in consecutive ties in both the County and League Cup, Long Stratton know they have a tough task if they wish to progress, but in recent season’s under their new management team have built a squad that has become competitive in Norfolk Division One and looking to mix it up with the sides competing at the top end of the table. Currently 5th whilst only 3 points behind 2nd placed Thetford Town Ladies, Long Stratton received a huge injury blow losing captain and prolific goal scorer, Samantha Walker to a nasty elbow injury that has kept her on the side-lines for some time. Strike partner Luci Middleton joining Long Stratton after coming out of retirement last season doing well to fill the void up top scoring 20 goals to date from 8 played this term. New additions to the squad in recent weeks, with Summer Copland joining from Wroxham along with Grace Murphy and Lucy Eagle both dual signed with Woodbridge. Long Stratton receiving a bye in both the previous rounds of the competition this their 1st competitive action since the 4th December.

The venue for the re arranged kick-off Easton College’s 3G pitch, has been a while since I’ve seen a woman’s football match here again in the county cup was blowing a typhoon that day as Norwich racked up a 20 plus score over an earlier incantation of Mulbarton Belles (different animal these days). Weather’s still rubbish, thankfully dry but bitterly cold minus barely above freezing. The pitch fenced but open to the elements quite short a viewing area on one side for spectators.

Long Stratton Women

Long Stratton Women starting XI – Jody Todd, Emily Ransome-Farmer, Summer Whiting, Megan Vincent, Alice Flatt, Milly Cawcutt, Kate Ransome-Farmer (C), Megan Bird, Emma Allsopp, Mary-Anne Hoy & Luci Middleton. Subs – Summer Copland, Megan O’Connor, Mia Wilkinson, Lucy Eagle & Sam Walker.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Sieska Humphries, Bethan Taylor, Calista Tink (C), Hannah Coombe, Georgina Belton, Abby Hutchin, Karolina Kowalczyk, Victoria Leyer & Shanice Sutton. Subs – Chelsea Brister, Kirstie Rusted & Betty Booker.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The players gathering on the centre circle before kick-off as the clubs that were able to this weekend across the county share in a ‘clap for Amber’ in remembrance of Horsford FC U9s player Amber Sheehy who sadly lost her battle with cancer last week.

Players for both sides sharing in the ‘Clap for Amber’ in remembrance of Horsford FC U9s player Amber Sheehy

Sam Walker named on the bench for Long Stratton ready to make her return with new signings, Lucy Eagle and Summer Copland also named amongst the subs. The sun low in the sky as captain’s Kate Ransome-Farmer for Long Stratton and Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Calista Tink shake hands before the match. Long Stratton wearing red shirts with black shorts and red socks to kick-off the game Dussindale & Hellesdon in an all sky blue kit.

The ball played back to the defence, Dussindale & Hellesdon rush in to close down the ball press Long Stratton outside their box, won back fed into Shanice Sutton pulling off into the right channel, Summer Whiting defending for Long Stratton the ball out for a throw in. Dussindale & Hellesdon making a fast start as Sieska Humphries bringing the ball on from left back sends it down the wing for Karolina Kowalczyk, Emily Ransome-Farmer getting back at her to challenge for the ball for Long Stratton the ball cleared into midfield coming straight back dropping to Sutton who slices a 25 yards first time effort wide of the top corner.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Sieska Humphries

Abby Hutchin pulling away right for Dussindale & Hellesdon as they mount a rapid attack on for Sutton her quick diagonal ball in the box sees Long Stratton goalkeeper Jody Todd rush out and get down quickly to get hold of the ball before Victoria can get onto the end of it. Dussindale & Hellesdon pressing the ball inside the Long Stratton half forcing rushed passes intercepting misplaced balls a strike from distance picking Todd out back on her goal line

The ball hotly contested in the middle both sides snapping at each other Hannah Coombe for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting it into Georgina Belton to play forwards, Sutton involve as it runs on through to Kowalczyk top of the D, going with the outside of her right boot, her attempted shot dropping wide of the near post. With ten players back behind the ball, Luci Middleton up top is the outlet for Long Stratton captain Kate Ransome-Farmer playing a good pass forwards sees the attack with a chance to break clear of the defence 30 yards out to the left of the area, Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper Tyla Cole committing herself early to come racing out to the top of her area to close the angle, Middleton opting for the early strike sending the ball past the keeper, missing the target beyond.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Karolina Kowalcyzk

A throw won high on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon worked well inside played across the top of the Long Stratton area comes to Sutton drags her shot wide from 20 yards out. Long Stratton are pegged back inside their half cautious about giving Dussindale & Hellesdon any space in behind, means Middleton up top is often isolated, getting the ball into her a challenge not to mention getting support up with her. A fierce battle for the ball going on in the middle. Belton bringing the ball on throw the centre for Dussindale & Hellesdon feeding a great ball through to Kowalcyzk out on the left, drags it on looking to get on down the line, Emily Ransom-Farmer quick to regain the ground get back on the winger to make the tackle.

Abby Hutchin and Kate Ransome-Farmer

GOAL! Just past the 10 minute mark and the dead lock is broken, Dussindale & Hellesdon capitalising on their good start to take the lead, the attack beginning with Humphries sending Kowalcyzk away on the left, the ball played inside in Leyer worked across the top of the area, Long Stratton don’t clear as the ball comes to Belton right of the D some 25 yards out, puts her foot through the ball a powerful hit sent across the keeper to dip into the bottom corner 0-1.

Georgina Belton (2nd right) opens the scoring for Dussindale & Hellesdon (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Long Stratton look to get on the attack from the restart with Kate Ransome-Farmer busy in the middle of the park winning the ball driving into her opponents half and playing a diagonal ball out to the right for Mary-Ann Hoy to give chase, Humphries going with her defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon to play the ball out for a throw in. The goal conceded seeing long Stratton becoming more pro active going after the ball Megan Bird linking up with Emma Allsopp as they attempt to get the ball into Middleton up top closely marked by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Bethan Taylor.

Long Stratton’s Emma Allsopp

Kate Ransome-Farmer winning the ball for Long Stratton on for Middleton in attack, looks to drive forwards, tackled 25 yards out, Ransome-Farmer continuing her run picking up the loose ball surging for the box left of the D, is evenly stopped by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Rachel Bussey. With the game becoming more open it opens up the counter attack for Dussindale & Hellesdon as Sutton getting hold of the ball on halfway comes forwards threading her pass into the box for Leyer breaking inside right to the six yard box pulls the trigger, Todd with a superb save at her near post down to deflect the ball wide across her goal for a corner kick.

Milly Cawcutt taking a blow in the back down in need of treatment for Long Stratton both sides taking the opportunity to head to their bench for further instruction. Cawcutt up holding her back is replaced as Long Stratton make a change bringing on Lucy Eagle for her debut. Into the action straight away on the right looking to get up with Middleton the ball fed into her feet, Middleton central turned into traffic tackled by Taylor, Kate Ransome-Farmer up with play however snatching hold of the loose ball rushing forwards is tackled by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink.

Long Stratton’s new signing Lucy Eagle (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

Coombs into Hutchin on for Leyer looks to send Kowalcyzk in behind on the left, Emily Ransome-Farmer stretching into the tackle to deny her getting into the box. Eagle looking to get up and support Middleton in attack for Long Stratton put the defence under a little bit of pressure. The pair combining as Middleton plays the pass on for Eagle attacking right her high ball clipped into box claimed cleanly by Cole. Up the other end Sutton with a sharp turn and hit 20 yards out right of the D off a Hutchin pass has Todd scrambling across her goal but runs narrowly wide.

  Kate Ransome-Farmer winning the tackles for Long Stratton the ball played up to Middleton a heavy touch sees the ball given away and Dussindale & Hellesdon get straight on the counter the ball brought on by Hutchin on for Leyer, Alice Flatt winning it at the back for Long Stratton. Hutchin and Ransome Farmer enjoying a good contest in the middle of the park battling for the ball looking to get forwards with it. 

  Eagle coming right on for Middleton to take on pushing for the right corner of the area, Humphries sliding in to try and stop the cross, Middleton gets the ball in across the six yard box cleared out of the ground by Taylor. A throw high on the right for Long Stratton worked well by Eagle and Kate Ransome-Farmer the cross into the area headed away by Tink for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Belton coming right with the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon her cross into the top of the Long Stratton area intercepted by Flatt.

Long Stratton defender Alice Flatt

   Eagle coming forwards through the middle linking with Middleton getting the return pass to carry the ball on right channel, under pressure from Humphries shoots early the ball swerving away from goal. The introduction of Eagle has added more bite to Long Stratton in the attacking third leading to a more open game, the defence staying deep to prevent getting turned Summer Copland joining the action for Long Stratton replacing Allsopp. Humphries up on the left to support Kowalcyzk out wide the ball worked between them moving inside, Bird coming back to regain possession for Long Stratton. 

Long Stratton’s Megan Bird

   Middleton seeing the ball into her feet well, laying it off for Eagle to take it n right channel her cross fizzed across the top of the area cleared by Tink. Eagle a good outlet for Long Stratton high on the right her cross dropped long through the six yard box, Hoy missing her volley at the far post. Flatt defends well at the back for Long Stratton as Kowalcyzk attempts to get onto the end of a superbly cushioned down touch from Sutton. Sutton looking to run onto a Leyer ball put on for her into the box, Megan Vincent composed to get across the attacker to shield the ball back to her keeper.

  Todd with another top draw save at the near post to deny Sutton on the angle from close range as she strikes it on the volley, albeit the flag raised Todd had to react and reacted excellently to throw herself up to tip the ball away.

Long Stratton goalkeeper, Jody Todd

The 1st half drawing to a close is bitterly cold out there not ideal conditions for having the ball blasted into at close range as Emily Ransome-Farmer will testify.

Half-time Long Stratton Women 0-1 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

   Georgina Belton’s 11th minute strike the difference between the sides going into the half-time interval. Dussindale & Hellesdon with the better start getting after the ball, Long Stratton sitting deep not willing to concede any space in behind were under pressure early on with just Luci Middleton up top the only passing option easily marshalled by the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence the goal changing the pattern of the game Long Stratton opening up looking to take the game to Dussindale & Hellesdon with the introduction of Lucy Eagle adding another thrust to their attack the game becoming more open. Dussindale & Hellesdon still creating the better chances forcing a couple for good saves from goalkeeper Jody Todd. The temperature rapidly dropping it remains all to play for going into the 2nd half. 

Changes for both sides at the break with Long Stratton bringing  Megan O’Connor for Hoy. Dussindale & Hellesdon bringing on Chelsea Brister replacing Kowalcyzk on the left. Dussindale & Hellesdon to get the 2nd half underway defending a 1 goal lead. Looking to get on the front foot Sutton with an early speculative effort dropping wide from long range.

  Todd holing onto another vicious strike sent in from range, then Sutton drags a shot wide from 25 yards out to the right of goal as the pass is rolled into her Hutchin after a bursting run from the middle. Dussindale & Hellesdon pushing Long Stratton back early on in the 2nd period preventing them from getting out of their half. 

  GOAL! Again that fast start brings Dussindale & Hellesdon a goal as Hutchin picks the ball up in the 50th minute and pushes forwards into the right channel before whipping a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Todd diving forwards attempting to push it away doesn’t get it clear as Leyer running in on the follow up at the far post, puts her foot through the ball to send it home 0-2. 

Victoria Leyer for Dussindale & Hellesdon (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

 Long Stratton responding with another change bringing off Whiting with Mia Wilkinson slotting in at left back. Copland coming forwards with the ball for Long Stratton moving left sending the pass on for O’Connor holds it up in the corner rolling it back into Copland to turn inside move a towards the D laying it off for Eagle before turning into the area, Eagle’s cushioned lay off looking to pick her out inside the six yard box, Tink getting her foot through the ball first to clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink

  A throw in the corner on the left for Long Stratton Wilkinson and O’Connor between them working a cross into the Dussindale & Hellesdon area half cleared a shot smashed back in from around the D fired wide. Sutton coming into the middle for the ball turns well to lay it on for Leyer who in turn looks to open her body to thread the ball through to put Brister in behind the Long Stratton defence holding their line well to catch her offside. 

 O’Connor adding some pace to Long Stratton’s attack on the left pushes on into the box, Bussey holding her up as Cole gets down to lay claim to the ball. Belton with a good run with the ball on into Leyer attempts to play it into the path of Hutchin as she breaks forwards, a timely interception from Flatt for Long Stratton. Tink coming out to meet O’Connor and clear the ball as Eagle attempts to play her on down the left channel. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon centre back Bethan Taylor (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Cole dives down to her left to save as Copland unleashes a 20 yard strike from the top of the D after Eagle rushes in to win the ball high up the pitch. Straight up the other end another yet another top draw save from Todd in the Long Stratton goal as Hutchin powers forwards with the ball into the box left side pulling the trigger from close range Todd down to save with her legs to deflect the ball away, Belton onto the cleared ball to strike over from distance. Long Stratton making another change which sees captain Sam Walker return to the pitch after a 4 month injury layoff with just over an hour played replacing Bird.

Sam Walker pictured with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Bethan Taylor back after a 4 month injury lay off for Long Stratton

 Middleton moving into the right channel threatening with the ball but Cole moving out to the edge of her area quickly gets down to make the save. Walker out on the right strong on the ball pushing down the line Humphries on her shoulder keeping her from turning inside her cross going behind for a goal kick. Sutton winning the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon out on the right, struck infield Leyer getting it down to strike from distance puts it straight at Todd the keeper with a comfortable take. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Abby Hutchin

  A collision between Todd and Sutton as the keeper goes to clear the ball from where I was which was a good way away looked as if Todd caught Sutton on her follow through unavoidable but Sutton isn’t happy needs to be calmed down and even then not before a yellow card is issued. Dussindale & Hellesdon are getting players forwards well around the Long Stratton penalty box a strike from distance I didn’t see who flashing in to strike the top of the crossbar and go out for a goal kick. 

  Betty Booker coming on for Dussindale & Hellesdon with 15 minutes of regular time left replacing Coombes. Although it has been a competitive game free-kicks have been few and far between, Dussindale & Hellesdon getting one in a dangerous position some 25 yards out left of the D as Belton is brought down after a strong run on the ball. Stays down struggling with cramp a lot of effort gone into the midfield battle. Brister on the set-piece going for goal goes for it sent over the bar. Long Stratton are beginning to tire dropping off the ball Dussindale & Hellesdon getting players forwards winning more of the ball.

Victoria Leyer with Alice Flatt (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

  Todd is keeping the score line down for Long Stratton as she pulls off another quality save with Leyer on the drive with the ball shooting across the keeper from 25 yards out, Todd throwing herself down to send the ball behind for a corner on he right. An opportunity to take it short with Bussey moving into space, are almost caught out as O’Connor latches onto the ball and threatens to break Hutchin getting across to tackle. Dussindale & Hellesdon pushing up winning a corner on the left.

  An inswinging delivery is cleared behind for a 2nd corner at the near post. Again whipped in low to the near post is blocked on the post by the defender covering out deflected out into the crowded penalty box Long Stratton’s defence make two more vital blocks before a third strike is turned over the bar. Another free-kick won in a dangerous position outside the D for Dussindale & Hellesdon again it’s Brister on it. Struck well low with pace avoiding the wall Todd scrambling across her goal can’t reach it the ball cannoning off the base of the post deflected wide across the face of goal.

  Walker on the right winning Long Stratton a corner put in near side not taken cleanly back to the taker for a 2nd crossing attempt turned behind at the near post for a goal kick. Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change late on bringing on Kirstie Rusted for Sutton. Copland bringing the ball on for Long Stratton left on for O’Connor wide held up Wilkinson getting up in support looks to travel infield, tackled by Bussey. Kowalcyzk also back into the action smashing a strike over from 25 yards out following a lay off from Leyer up top.

  Walker and O’Connor looking to get on the offensive late on for Long Stratton with the former sending in a cross along the top of the area for O’Connor stretching the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence, Tink doing well timing her sliding tackle to win the ball back. Allsopp back on the pitch late on for Middleton. Hutchin still with energy to burn as she carries the ball on from the middle before blasting a shot over the cross bar from 25 yards. 

 GOAL! The game moving into the final minute Dussindale & Hellesdon picking holes in the tiring Long Stratton defence as Rusted puts the ball on into the box for Brister attacking the six yard box Todd closing her down Brister striking the ball under her from six yards to add a 3rd goal 0-3.

Chelsea Brister (photo credit Scott Grearhardy)

   That virtually the last action of the game as the final whistle blowing soon after the restart.

Full time Long Stratton Women 0-3 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

 In the end a convincing win for Dussindale & Hellesdon winning by 3 goals to nil. The goal at the death perhaps a little harsh on Long Stratton, but nevertheless a deserved result Dussindale & Hellesdon starting the game well on the attack to open the scoring in the 11th minute, repeating the feat early in the 2nd half to take a 2 goal lead to control the tie. Long Stratton working hard keeping a solid back line for much of the game competing without threatening to tear open their opponents defence, six weeks without a game taking it’s toll in the finish their new signings looking good and a much welcome sight to see Sam Walker back out on the pitch. Dussindale & Hellesdon good for their win a strong all round performance will face either Division One strugglers Stalham Town Ladies or Division Two leaders KLSC Women away from home in the quarter finals with at least 2 NWGFL sides gaurenteed to reach the county cup semi-finals. 

Women’s Football East -Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match was a competitive tie with several players putting themselves forwards for consideration. For Long Stratton Jody Todd pulled off a number of top draw saves to keep the score line down and keep her side it the game for as long as possible. Lucy Eagle really added a new dimension to the side and looks to be a great addition to the squad. Kate Ransome-Farmer was excellent in the middle of the park battling for the ball and looking to get forwards. An strong all round team performance from Dussindale & Hellesdon although one player has edged herself ahead of the rest. Bethan Taylor and Calista Tink were solid in the centre of the defence, nothing got through. In midfield Georgina Belton made a number of tackles and played some excellent passes. The award though goes to Abby Hutchin was a competitive tussle in the middle and more often than not came away with the ball at her feet to take the game to Long Stratton and link with the attack.

  Fair play to both sides for getting the game on with a change of venue when all bar one other game fell by the wayside in the county again. A chilly game at Easton College’s 3G but great to see a competitive tie, my thanks to both sides for their help with the line ups good to see both in action. Thanks too to Scott Grearhardy for the extra pictures. They meet again to do it all again in the League Cup next weekend.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 Sunday 8th January

FAWNL South East Division One

 Wishing you all a Happy New Year! A huge personal milestone to kick-off 2023 with this report being the 500th! Come along way from what was initially just a go at trying something new as I looked to continue my coverage of woman’s football following the folding of my WSL team Lincoln Ladies. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog eventually growing into Women’s Football East as I felt all of the teams across all leagues in the region deserved and needed more coverage. Hopefully have played a part in that and there’s plenty more games let to cover.

Today’s game comes from FAWNL South East Division One a trip to St Neots Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on newly promoted Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women.

Both sides with a comfortable firs half of the season placed in mid-table looking to push on up the table in 2023. The 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid getting ever stronger, but with the sad demise of Wymondham Town Ladies leaving the league a side down it highlights how fragile that growth remains and the hard work clubs have to do to play at this level.

Cambridge United WFC now a long established club at this level growing strong links now with their respective men’s side with 4 games to be played at The Abbey Stadium throughout this season. A stark assessment of the squad taking place at the end of last season seeing some players moving on Cambridge United have steadily been recruiting looking for the right players to build the side going forwards with Sarah Wiltshire the stellar sighing during the summer has weighed in with 15 goals so far top scorer from 11 appearances. Francesca Partridge another new addition to the attack scoring 6 to date. 

  Defender Abbie Jackson coming in from Ipswich Town Women before Christmas, Cambridge have continue to recruit building a large squad with Sydnie Naylor joining having had playing experience with Arsenal and Notts Forest. Another 2 new addition announced before today’s match too with defender Mayzee Seymour coming in from Harlow and Bella Simmons re-joining the club after spells away with Royston Town Women and rivals Cambridge City Ladies. 11 points from 8 played will be aiming to push into the top 5.

  Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women are newly promoted to the FAWNL for the first time in their history having won the London and South East Regional Premier Division like the ERWFL an extremely tough league to get out of. That said Ashford made it look easy last season winning all but 2 of their 20 league games and those ending in a draw. Have several familiar names in the side with experience at this level having played for Denham United Ladies, most notably Alissa Down who captains the side. Ashley Cheatley top scorer for the Middlesex side so far this season netting 13 goals from 12 appearances with Alissa Down on 7 from 12 played. Collecting 10 points from their opening 8 matches are well clear of the bottom two just a point behind today’s opponents and well placed to challenge for the top 5 themselves. The points shared between the sides when Cambridge United visited Ashford at the beginning of the season the game ending 3-3.

 St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s league encounter the grass pitch looking in great condition with a 4G pitch situated behind the main stadium. Viewing all round with covered terraces both ends and a seated stand housing the changing rooms and clubhouse beneath. The wind fairly blustery prior to kick-off dull and overcast a strong down pour coming minutes before kick-off retreated to the stands to take my notes, as it was the rain would stop the instant the players walked out onto the pitch taking the windy weather with it. The sun even poking through for a moment.

Cambridge United WFC  starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Rachel Kosky, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Sydnie Naylor, Ella Marden, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Alysha Stojko-Down, Francesca Partridge, Libby Fraser & Mayzee Seymour.

Cambridge United WFC

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women starting XI – Sophie Shults, Ellen Clarabut, Jade Johnson, Hannah Duncan, Laura Huse, Aimee Durn, Alissa Down (C), Kayleigh Currivan, Millie Constantine, Elizabeth O’Callaghan & Ashley Cheatley. Subs – Eman Kassem & Ellie Luscombe.

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  Bella Simmons is in the starting line-up for Cambridge today with the other new signing Mayzee Seymour on the bench, Abbi Griffin a late change to the starting line-up coming in for Carrie Bennett at left back. Ashford travelling up from Middlesex with 5 players unavailable naming just the 2 on their bench. Having left the pitch after the warm-up to some pretty unsavoury weather the players return to bright sunshine prompting a change of ends with Ashford switching ends to put the sun in Cambridge’s faces in the first half (not that it was going to last long) Cambridge to get the game underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Ashford also known as The Tangerines in their away kit to day a very nice looking all purple affair. 

 The ball played back to the defend, Ashford rush forwards to close down pressure the ball centre backs Rachel Kosky and Abbie Jackson manoeuvring the ball out for Cambridge into midfielder Sammy Edgar who sends it long to the right for Ella Marden, Ellen Clarabut heading it away for Ashford. The visitors bring the ball on up their left the diagonal ball into the box intercepted by Cambridge’s Jackson cleared away to the right. The recent rain making the pitch slick the ball skipping on players sliding in. Ashford presenting a solid back line with the midfield close not allowing Cambridge any space to exploit through the middle.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Abbie Jackson

   Cambridge look to get the ball out wide Abi Davies passing it on for Marden on the right wing presses forwards breaking into the area holding off her challenger closing in on the near post pulls the trigger, Ashford goalkeeper Sophie Shults down smartly to save push the ball wide across her six yard box, Bella Simmons retrieving the ball beyond the far post turns back inside see’s her shot blocked by centre back Laura Huse the rebound straight to Sarah Wiltshire her first time shot similarly blocked by Hannah Duncan. 

  Coming on with the ball through the middle Ashford captain Alissa Down opens up her body attempting to thread the ball through to Ashley Cheatley in attack, Jackson with a timely interception for Cambridge. Ashford sitting back a little allowing Cambridge time on the ball at the back a clever pass from Davies brought down well by Wiltshire in attack  she flicks it over the top on the right for Marden to attack can’t quite get to it before the ball runs out of play. 

Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

  Marden with a strike from 25 yards out coming in from the right wing fired straight at the Ashford keeper. Shults untroubled. Sydnie Naylor looking sharp on the ball in the middle for Cambridge moving left to combine with Simmons, the forwards pass, cut out for Ashford’s Huse. The defender hurt is down needing treatment after assessment is allowed back on. Cambridge applying some pressure now as Naylor comes on with the ball well plays it on for Wiltshire 20 yards out left of the D is forced out wide the keeper initially coming towards her back peddling as Wiltshire wriggles free of her marker to play the ball back across the top of the box for Naylor positioned inside her strike rising Shults is back in position to catch it cleanly.

Cambridge’s Sydnie Naylor up against Ashford captain Alissa Down

  No advantage for Ashford as referee Richard Fullicks brings play back for the set-piece a free kick some 35 yards out, Down on the ball plays a teasing ball in across the far post, no one there to attack it. Cambridge get caught on possession as they play it between themselves at the back Kayleigh Currivan stealing it then threading a pass into Millie Constantine pulling away right of the D to shoot, Lauren Webb shuffling across her goal though has it covered seeing it safely wide of her right post.

   Jackson finds Simmons out wide on the left on half way, turns pulling neatly away from her marker on the ball to run in behind and send the low pass into Wiltshire central, carries the ball wide left into the area before cutting back inside to scoop a lobbed shot up over the keeper, the ball landing on the roof of the net. Ashford are a little slow to close Cambridge down as the defenders look to get the ball into the midfield with Edgar, Naylor and captain Gisela Otten attempting to speed things up get the ball into Wiltshire to run at the visitors defence. 

Cambridge’s Bella Simmons

  A late flag see’s Simmons waved offside, as Wiltshire lifts the ball in to the middle from the right wing, Shults rushing out to save bravely at her feet unaware of the raised flag. The goalkeeper down for a moment able to play on. Jade Johnson bringing the ball on for Ashford on the right passing it forwards for Constantine the ball cut out by Griffin for Cambridge. Constantine getting involved in the action in a central position with a clever turn on the ball 25 yards out looking to find Elizabeth O’Callaghan in the box as she breaks inside from the left, Kosky with a fine headed clearance for the hosts.

Ashford’s Millie Constantine

   The game settling down Ashford’s attackers looking to press Cambridge’s defenders as they linger on the ball at the back now force an error win a free-kick just outside the box to the left of the D. Down is something of a dead ball specialist over the free-kick a packed penalty box ahead of her strikes the ball well low and hard through bodies Webb would have seen it late but close to her adjusts quickly to get down to make the save with 20 minutes gone.

Down’s free-kick saved by Lauren Webb

  GOAL! Having had a free-kick moments before Cambridge have players up as they get the ball out to Simmons on the left inside the area has support with Wiltshire plays the ball back into her the Cambridge number 7 taking the ball across the top of the area looking for an opening, well tracked instead sees Otten free to attack the ball central lays it into her path, Cambridge’s captain running in to strike the ball 20 yards out rising with a bit of swerve Shults may well have got the faintest of touches as she throws herself up at it the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the crossbar, players rushing for it, Naylor first to arrive smashing the ball into the back of the net to score 1-0.

Sydnie Naylor opens the scoring for Cambridge

  Ashford looking for a quick response from the restart as Cheatley gets on the move with the ball through the middle attempting to release Constantine into the box from the right side the pass a little to heavy Webb able to claim. Ashford battling for possession in the middle Aimee Durn breaking clear 25 yards out, Jackson reading her intent rushing out to charge her strike down the ball deflected up into the air over Jackson into the box, scrambled away at the far post for a corner kick. Down to take an inswinging delivery to the far post Duncan under it sends her header up over the crossbar. 

Ashford defender, Hannah Duncan

 

  The Cambridge goal livening Ashford up as they look to better compete for the ball Naylor escaping with it to the left for Cambridge sends it on for Wiltshire pulling into the channel turning inside with the ball pulling the trigger from 20 out can only pick out Shults in the Ashford goal. More good footwork from Constantine as she comes away with the ball in the middle support from Durn the ball lifted into the box as Cheatley bursts forwards can’t quite take it before it runs out of play. Marden moving inside from the right feeding the ball across the area 20 yards out for Wiltshire her effort sliced runs narrowly wide of the far post. 

  Ashford win a corner on the left players coming up from the back with 15 minutes left in the first period, Down with another inswinging delivery beyond the far post turned back across goal inside the six yard box attacked, Kosky throwing her body up to block the ball deflected away for another corner.

 GOAL! Ashford have looked a threat from set-pieces and from the 2nd corner they score another potent delivery from Down this time her inswinging ball in low at the near post wrong foots Webb, the Cambridge goalkeeper unable to adjust as she struggles to keep it from crossing the line, Ashford equalise the players rushing to Down to celebrate 1-1.

Alissa Down with Bella Simmons

  Cheatley with a strike from outside the box for Ashford left of the D swerves wide of the far post. Durn seeing the ball into her feet central goes on for Ashford not closed down pulls the trigger her strike from distance racing wide of the far post. The visitors on the front foot in the latter stages of the 1st half. Getting a little ragged in the middle a few late challenges coming in. Otten with the ball for Cambridge into Naylor going forwards with Wiltshire plays it out to Simmons wide left into the area attempts to get a shot away off the outside of her right boot, the ball cut out by the back tracking Huse behind for a corner kick. 

Ashford attacker, Ashley Cheatley

 Ashford with plenty back for the corner clear as the ball is played in to the top of the area. Edgar with a great times pass forwards for Cambridge to Wiltshire in attack carrying it forwards Huse gets on her shoulder to defend see the ball back to her keeper. Johnson needed in defence too to deal with the threat of Wiltshire as the Cambridge striker evades a tackle on the top of the area comes left. 

 Ashford with a free-kick wide on the right as Otten pulls down Cheatley. Down to play it in a dangerous cross in through the six yard box, met by Huse at the far post headed home however it won’t count as the offside flag is raised against her a close call. Another free-kick for Ashford this one 30 yards out to the left, Down goes for it this time her shot rising over the bar. Into stoppage time Cambridge on the attack the ball into Wiltshire 20 out finds Simmons wide left to the by-line cuts it back up to Edgar to play across the area into Marden right corner, Down back to put in the tackle before she can get a shot away.

Ashford midfielder, Aimee Durn

  Edgar with a crisp pass into Wiltshire racing forwards in attack her touch sending the ball out to the left, tempting Shults to come for it, Wiltshire winning the race however, the goalkeeper caught out of position as players rush back to defend the goal the angle against Wiltshire shifts it between her feet to create a better one, not much to aim at Shults back to cover her near post Wiltshire looks to place it no power the goalkeeper can claim it.   

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 An intriguing first half, a bright start from Cambridge allowed the ball, a cautious start from Ashford allowing their opponents to come on kept a solid shape  slow to close Cambridge breaking the dead lock in the 20th minute taking the lead woke Ashford up as they looked strong in reply getting set-pieces to trouble the hosts finding the equaliser from one. Both creating other opportunities Cambridge closest to getting a 2nd level at the break set up perfectly for the 2nd half.

  The weather remains settled the suns brief appearance over the clouds returning. Ashford to get the 2nd half underway neither side with a change. Down with the ball her pass forwards into Cheatley is tackled by Edgar. Ashford get the ball into Cheatley as she breaks into the box on the right, Jackson defending the ball off Cheatley for a goalkick. 

  Marden with the ball at her feet on the right for Cambridge turns infield 25 out lifts a diagonal ball into the area is over Wiltshire falls to Simmons breaking in behind at the far post the flag up denying her a shot. Durn is brought down 25 yards out giving the visitors another free-kick to the right of the D. Down’s shot striking the Cambridge wall deflected up and behind for a corner on the left. The delivery swung in across goal, Jackson up decisively at the far post to head the ball clear for Cambridge. 

Abbie Jackson heading clear for Cambridge

  Ashford making a lively start to the 2nd half a more open game. Naylor controlling the ball well moves wide picking out Simmons on the left flank can’t find Wiltshire with her lay off. Naylor with a good win taking the ball high on the right forwards for Wiltshire wide of the area the angle acute can only send her shot across the face of goal. Ashford with a throw on the right Cambridge looking to defend it, won by Otten her well struck clearance catching teammate Davies on the side of the head knocking her to the ground. Play stopped, Davies needing a few moments to get her bearing is made of tough stuff however and able to play on.

Gisela Otten about to knock out her own teammate

  Both sides looking to get the ball moving faster in the final 3rd Wiltshire moving about the defence coming right has Simmons over on that side with her as she sends the ball on Simmons in a race to the box with Duncan the central defender doing enough to get a touch on the ball take it away from the attacker allowing her keeper to claim. Wiltshire does well to spin off the defence break into the area left of the D, swings her foot through the ball looks certain to score, not sure if Shults got a touch on the ball as she throws herself down, the ball runs wide however and a goal kick is given. 

 Cambridge turning the screw as they look to retake the lead the Ashford defence starting to tire. Cheatley in attack however retaining a good turn of pace breaking towards the box forcing a block from both Jackson and Kosky before the ball is cleared to safety. Naylor into Simmons left plays in on for Wiltshire a fraction ahead of the defence, shoots from the left of the D her effort brushing the side netting. Cambridge making the first change of the game bringing off Naylor in midfield, replacing her with Alysha Stojko-Down.

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

Stojko-Down straight into the action with a diagonal ball for Marden to chest down bringing her inside 20 yards out then strikes the ball on the volley goalwards attempting to chip the keeper a fine attempt but an equally good pluck down from Shults. Marden with the ball out on the right squaring it into the six yard box for Wiltshire won’t sit for the attacker as both Huse and Duncan get a blocking tackle in to deny a clear shot. Shults down needing treatment in the Ashford goal, the bench calling the rest of the players over for instruction with 20 minutes left to play.

Ashford defender, Laura Huse

  Both full backs are tiring for Ashford, Johnson stretching to make the challenge, does well to deflect the ball off Simmons for a goalkick as she attempts to break on the left. Cambridge with the momentum getting the ball into her attackers, Currivan with Down winning it back on for Constantine up with Durn and O’Callaghan on the right the shot struck from outside the box over. The visitors regrouping to battle for possession higher up the pitch Down out to Johnson on the right Down breaking forwards right of the area Johnson picking her out with the pass cuts back inside to shoot, her strike knocking another Cambridge defender to the ground, but again up and okay.

Ashford’s Jade Johnson

  Marden has picked up an injury for Cambridge needs to come off Francesca Partridge on to join the Cambridge attack. Cambridge win a free-kick out wide on the right inside the Ashford half an opportunity for players to come forwards from the back Wiltshire to play it in superb flighted towards the far post Kosky bursting from the pack up to head it, a glancing header sent wide wouldn’t have known it but her fellow centre back Jackson beyond would have had the better chance. 

 

  Another chance for Cambridge moments later as the hosts feed the ball through the middle into Simmons in attack going forwards rides a challenge to get into the area before pulling the trigger Shults down smartly making an excellent save to turn the ball wide of her left post for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Cambridge with plenty up for the corner looking to press the advantage, the ball fired into the area Ashford get it clear out to Cheatley holding position halfway left side sees the ball into her feet and turns the counter is on as she races forwards Cambridge’s defenders frantically racing back as Cheatley turns inside getting past one inside to send the ball out to O’Callaghan right in the clear, Webb makes the call to come out to the top of her area and try and close the attacker down can’t get down in time as O’Callaghan slots the ball under her to send it through into the open goal beyond 1-2.

Elizabeth O’Callaghan firing Ashford into the lead

  15 minutes left to play and Ashford having been under some pressure from Cambridge find themselves in front with a superb break from a corner. Cambridge get after the ball from the restart looking for a quick reply, Wiltshire winning a corner on the right. Played into the area headed out to the left retrieved by Simmons her strike back in blocked at the near post. Simmons over on the right now sending the pass inside for Wiltshire 25 yards out moves across the area looking to curl a left for shot into the top corner sails wide of the post. 

  Huse with an interception at the back for Ashford as Davies attempts to play a diagonal pass into Partridge. Simmons inside form the right with the turn on the ball top of the box to clip a cross into Wiltshire attacking the six yard box the flag raised even before Wiltshire buries her header into the back of the net, no goal. Davies breaking up the pitch on the right for Cambridge sending a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Johnson rising at the far post to head clear for Ashford. Duncan in to close Wiltshire down as she attempts to get onto a Davies pass. 

Ashford with their first change late in the game Constantine comes off with Ellie Luscombe coming on. A much needed injection of pace Luscombe after the ball inside to Durn tackled by Otten into Stojko-Down on for Simmons right her cross cut out by Huse inside the six yard box. Cheatley alert to any chance Ashford have to counter, finding the ball at her feet 30 yards out moves inside before shooting putting the ball straight at Webb.

 Simmons winning Cambridge a late corner on the right before it’s taken a change for Ashford, Clarabut struggling needs to come off on comes Eman Kassem. The corner into the mix the header powers over the crossbar. Ashford working hard to defend their own goal alert whenever a counter in on to relieve the pressure breaking forwards Down into Cheatley across the top of the area her shot drilled wide. Davies coming off for Cambridge with Seymour on for her debut at right back. Down shown a yellow card for Ashford late in the game.

A free-kick to Cambridge left side flighted into the near post area, Shults up amongst bodies getting her fist n the ball knocked down the keeper is grounded as Cambridge attempt to get a shot in along the ground Shults able to snatch it into her midriff. 

 Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  A battling performance from Ashford sees them come away with the 3 points and their first win of 2023. The result seeing Ashford climb 3 places to move up to 5th in the FAWNL South East Division One table. Level at the break Cambridge looked to be turning the screw 2nd half getting forwards well creating chances coming close to taking the lead themselves before being hit with a sucker punch a break form their own corner, taken well by Ashford to take the lead themselves with 15 minutes left to play. On another day might well have been 2-1 the other way but that’s football you take your chances Ashford working hard throughout had to dig in as a team at times and their defence was superb. Cambridge will be disappointed had the chances to win the game themselves just weren’t taken on the day.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of 2023. It’s not often they’re easy and today is not exception some fine performances all round. Firstly for Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire did everything she could to get a goal with some great runs and movement on and off the ball. Bella Simmons was impressive on her return to Cambridge United lively on the flank looking to combine with Wiltshire create chances. So too Sydnie Naylor in midfield good control and movement throughout. Ashford with a hard working team performance had to dig in at the back at times. Alissa Down dangerous on the ball be it in play or dead. Sophie Shults strong in goal with a couple of crucial saves, the centre backs superb too. Hannah Duncan with several strong challenges and well timed interceptions is just edged out by fellow defender, Laura Huse, again work hard throughout tacking and winning the ball when called upon.

 That’s it then the 500th match report written and as exciting as the first. Been doing it for a while now and it’s knowing that every game is different that makes it so special after all I only write the words it’s the players who make the content. 500 down and plenty more to come still lots of teams I want to see in action. Another enjoyable game good to get the new year started my thanks to both teams for their help today.

by Darren Gilham