Monthly Archives: February 2023

Match Report – Park Ladies v Peterborough Sports Ladies

Sunday 26th February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two

A top of the table clash from Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two this Sunday on Women’s Football East with leaders Park Ladies hosting 2nd placed Peterborough Sports Ladies, both with an unbeaten record going into the game.

The title looks to be between the two with today’s fixture potential having a large say on which way it might go. Park Ladies leading Peterborough Sports Ladies by 5 points their opponents though have 3 matches in hand. Met on the opening day of the season with the points shared in a 1-1 in the reverse fixture.

A strong league campaign from Park Ladies have been out in front from the start an 8 games winning streak following their opening day draw. A couple of draws away to march and home to Huntingdon slowing them up at the start of the month. Were in cup action last weekend winning 3-0 at home to Division Three side Cambourne Town Ladies to reach their first ever cup final the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup where they will face Cambridge United WFC Development on the Sun 16th April at Histon FC.

Have been scoring plenty of goals in league and cup to with top scorers Francesca Plitsch and Georgia Stimson both on 20 goals from 14 appearances. Amy Hunt netting 14 goals from 14 games with Sophie Fenner also on double figures. The last time I saw Park Ladies in action they were also going strong in the league, the Championship back then as they hosted Pinchbeck United Ladies on the 15th March 2020, on the eve of the first lockdown, games suspended across the country with the Covid-19 pandemic reaching UK shores. Was a strange atmosphere with alot of apprehension around, a wet and gloomy day. Muddy playing conditions too, was nevertheless treated to a spectacle on the pitch with the sides drawing 4-4.

Peterborough Sports Ladies a new name to the league this season. Peterborough itself a hot bed for female footballing talent with a number of sides Peterborough Sports the latest name. Have had female sides in the past, keen to bring woman’s football back to the club. This new side looking a strong addition headed up by former Peterborough Northern Star boss Dean Steward. A young side with many of the squad also featuring for their U18s side. A sprinkling of experience to call upon too a club on the rise. Following their opening day draw with Park, fell behind with their league fixtures due to extended runs in cup competitions. League form excellent since with a 100% record to climb up to 2nd threaten Park at the top. The Steward family producing some talented footballers in Peterborough with Cassie and Katie Steward playing for both Northern Star and Peterborough United. Katie Steward playing 6 games for Peterborough Sports this season netting 15 goals with younger sister Codie also proving prolific in front of goal netting 11 goals so far for the first team and 24 goals for the U18’s including a brace yesterday against Milton.

Parkfield Sports Club the venue for today’s league clash, situated in the village of Wimblington, near March heart of the Cambridgeshire fens. The site featuring a modern clubhouse, the Pub in the Park with a large carpark overlooking the pitches, two full size grass pitches, hosting cricket in the summer, with a new playground area being enjoyed by grown-ups and children alike. Hot and cold drinks being served a cup of tea needed, although the weather remains uncharacteristically good for the time of year there was quite a bitter breeze blowing across the pitches the sun offering some heat whenever it broke through the clouds another pleasant day for a match.

Park Ladies

 Park Ladies starting XI – Sian Holcroft, Maddie Jackson, Imogen James, Erin Fox, Charlotte Marshall, Eilish Brown, Fran Plitsch, Teagan Pulman, Erin Powell (C), Georgia Stimson & Amy Hunt. Subs – Sophie Fenner & Abby Deighton.

Peterborough Sports Ladies

 Peterborough Sports Ladies starting XI – Keeley Steward, Michaela Dortch, Larissa Frederick, Lillia Barhoumi, Evie Hatfield (C), Georgia Kulesza, Ruby Gorkel, Codie Steward, Leah Cudone, Alexa Hunter & Katie Steward. Subs – Libby Willis, Sophie Harold, Frankie Taylor, Phoebe Eyett & Grace Sipson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   Peterborough Sports Ladies calling on their experienced players for today’s top of the table clash with Larissa Frederick Alexa Hunter and Leah Cudone coming into the starting line-up with new signing Michaela Dortch one time Cambridge United WFC player also starting. Naming 5 on the bench. Park with just the two players to call upon from the bench if needed. Moved over to the opposite side of the pitch to have the low sun at my back might cause a few issues for the players during the game sighting the dropping ball. Peterborough in their away colours for the match and all green kit with white trim on the shirts. Park lined up opposite wearing navy shirts and shorts with red socks.

The ball put back to Ruby Gorkel in midfield, Park are quick to close the ball down, the ball bouncing about before being put out of play for a Peterborough thro on the right. Turned inside into Gorkel, threads a pass forwards to Katie Steward breaking on in attack taking the ball on into the right channel shooting from outside the box, the strike held by Park goalkeeper, Sian Holcroft.

Peterborough Sports Larissa Frederick

Park move in to win the ball in the middle get it moving forwards quickly out to the right for Amy Hunt down the line passes it back into Eilish Brown top right corner of the area her shot charged down by Peterborough’s Larissa Frederick. The visitors counter attacking the ball fed onto Codie Steward right side knocks it infield before playing it across to Katie Steward central is tackled by Park’s Fran Plitsch, cleared back out to Codie Steward on the right her cross lifted back into the box cleared by Park’s Erin Fox.

A bright opening to the game from both sides looking to get on down the flanks, Park winning a throw high on their right, dropping into Hunt the attacker turning edge of the box her ball in deflected behind by Peterborough’s Lillia Barhoumi for a corner kick. Fired in near side blocked by Peterborough captain, Evie Hatfield the ball is scrambled behind for another corner. Played into Charlotte Marshall top of the area, attempts to send it back to the corner taker to cross, Peterborough stepping up well as a unit catching her offside.

Peterborough Sports, Lillia Barhoumi

Hunt getting on well attacking right for Park players getting up in support cut back up to Brown on the right corner of the box again hits her shot well, Peterborough goalkeeper, Keeley Steward (no relation to the other Steward’s) with a top draw save throwing herself across her near post to turn the ball behind for a corner kick.

Played in near side Peterborough defend and get straight on the counter the ball played forwards into Katie Steward left side getting it into her feet races forwards heading for the box striking the ball on the angle driven in Holcroft right behind it claiming cleanly. Codie Steward out on the opposite flank getting the ball under control and spinning off her marker to swing a ball in towards goal her cross/shot has Holcroft concerned but the keeper sees it bounce off the top of her crossbar.

Codie Steward with the ball for Peterborough Sports

Imogen James getting on up the left for Park from full back whipping a cross into the box, the headed clearance dropping into the path of Brown as the Park midfielder runs into the box left corner, is tackled by Barhoumi before she can get her shot away. Park getting players forwards from midfield well to press the Peterborough back line the visitors though a threat on the resulting counter attacks Gorkel out to Codie Steward running on down the right putting a ball across the box looking to pick out Katie Steward running in from the left, Holcroft alert to the danger out quickly to throw herself down to take the ball off Steward’s feet.

Park Ladies goalkeeper Sian Holcroft

The two sides fairly evenly matched, both possessing players who could unlock the opposing defence find a way in on goal. Leah Cudone up with Katie Steward on Peterborough’s left the cross driven across the top of the area cleared by Fox for Park. Keeley Steward charging out of her area to clear as Plitsch feeds Hunt a defence splitting pass through the centre. A few rough challenges coming in Marshall and Katie Steward clashing. Plitsch getting back well to close Alexa Hunter down as she attempts to get into a shooting position 20 yards out.

Michaela Dortch sliding in to tackle Park’s Fran Plitsch

Keeley Steward out well to claim low on Hunt as Georgia Stimson sends the ball on from a wide position on the left. Another coming together this time between Marshall and Codie Steward the referee quick get them apart having a word with both before issuing a yellow card to both. Plitsch getting stuck in in the middle of the park winning the ball for Park finding Teagan Pulman to her left on for Stimson, Micaela Dortch getting her foot in to take the ball away from her as she shifts to go inside.

Park with another corner on the right, the ball into the box near side cleared by Frederick who pulls up soon after feeling a knock. A pause in play to be assessed is okay to play on. The Steward sisters linking up in the left channel laying the ball between them Codie’s ball to Katie heading into the box cut out by Park’s, James. Pulman getting on well into the left channel for Park sending the ball across the top of the area to Hunt far side attempts to lay it back to the onrushing Plitsch central, Gorkel with a great tackle putting her foot in to clear for Peterborough.

Peterborough Sports, Ruby Gorkel

Cudone sharp nips in to steal the ball off the defence left taking it inside before striking over from 20 yards out for Peterborough. Park winning a free-kick wide right, Stimson putting the cross into the box met by Hunt near side twisting to head the ball turned goalwards, well held by Keeley Steward. A change for Park their captain Erin Powell coming off, Sophie Fenner joining the action on the left side of the pitch with little over 15 minutes to play in the first half. Georgia Kulesza battling for the ball in  midfield for Peterborough on for Hunter out to Codie Steward left, Maddie Jackson in to challenge for Park before the ball in under control.

Park Ladies, Eilish Brown

James with a nasty slip as she plays the ball on winding herself is in need of treatment but okay to play on. Plitsch on for Brown through the middle to Stimson on her left forwards for Hunt breaking into the box, Keeley Steward closing her down saving well at her feet. Fenner with the ball on the left has Plitsch up in support for Park fired on up the line for Hunt to chase, too much to do as Dortch defends seeing out for the goal kick. Keeley Steward’s kick out from the back knocked on through the middle, very nearly has Katie Steward in the clear to have a run at the goalkeeper, but for a vital last ditch lunging tackle from James.

Katie Steward

Cudone bringing the ball on from the left firing a cross in towards to top of the area Fox getting her head on it going to clear hits one of her own players causing it to rebound to Peterborough’s, Hunter top of the D, digging it out from under her feet shifts it wide to Codie Steward on the right sends her angled strike wide across the face of goal.

GOAL! With less than 2 minutes remaining of regular time remaining in the first half the dead lock is broken. Kati Steward on the ball coming on some 30 yards out Park don’t close her down seizes her opportunity putting her foot through the ball to strike it goalwards a looping shot dipping over the keepers head under the bar 0-1.

Katie Steward preparing to strike the ball to score the opening goal for Peterborough Sports

Peterborough getting their noses in front late in the first half, Codie Steward winning a throw high on the right, receiving it turns to hook a high ball into the area, Holcroft taking it on the bounce.

Half-time Park Ladies 0-1 Peterborough Sports Ladies

  A wonder strike from Katie Steward late on in the first half the difference been the sides in what has been a close and evenly fought contest so far. Park pressing the ball well in midfield getting players up and around the Peterborough area, Keeley Steward making a couple of fine saves to deny the hosts. Peterborough looking dangerous on the counter getting players onto the ball wide, with a few long range attempts one paying off. Still all to play for 2nd half. Park staying out on the field during the half-time interval.

Appears to be no more changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half with Park getting thing’s underway. Much like the start of the first half the ball is closed down quickly going out for a throw. Katie Steward onto the ball for Peterborough on for Codie Steward attacking right, tackled by James. Peterborough get Cudone onto the ball forwards for Katie Steward attacking right of the D, brought down with a heavy challenge on the edge of the area winning the free-kick in a dangerous position. Kulesza over it lines up the strike, close narrowly over the crossbar a good effort.

Peterborough making a strong start to the 2nd half Cudone gathering the ball left sending the diagonal ball into the box looking for Katie Steward racing in far side, Fenner back to defend clearing for a corner kick. put in long across the six yard box from the right cleared by Park, Peterborough winning the ball back Fox lunging in to tackle Katie Steward before Marshall blocks a shot from distance.

Park Ladies, Sophie Fenner

Plitsch continues to put herself about in midfield for Park winning the ball, Keeley Steward out to the top of her area to clear a through ball. Plitsch up with Brown working the ball forwards, Kulesza back in amongst them to break thing’s up for Peterborough a good ball forwards for Cudone, James defending for Park. Remains a good contest both sides giving it their all. Park making a change bringing Powell back on replacing Hunt. Frederick getting hold of the ball at the back for Peterborough moving forwards before playing it long for Codie Steward on the left checks inside shooting low on the angle not troubling Holcroft.

Stimson turning on the ball playing it on for Plitsch charging on through the middle, Hatfield out to close her down win the ball back for Peterborough. Katie Steward again in the wars brought down while attacking on the right, the free-kick a little deeper this time, Kulesza nevertheless going for it the strike over. Is a little physical at time, Marshall getting clattered by Hunter, has been giving as good as she gets though nothing doing in this instance. Fenner striding on with the ball out on the left for Park turning inside moving into the box, Hatfield with a well timed tackle preventing her getting a shot away.

Georgia Stimson

Kulesza with Gorkel in the middle for Peterborough through to Cudone in attack central threatens to get away from the Park defence, Marshall with a great recovery running to dive in get her foot on the ball take it away from a throw in the corner on the left. Cudone doing well for Peterborough getting more of the ball controlling it and shifting forwards fed on for Codie Steward left of the D attempts to find her sister to the right inside the box the pass cut out the flag up in either case. Katie Steward shooting wide across goal moments later as Cudone picks her out with the pass.

Georgia Kulesza winning the ball back for Peterborough

Another change for Park, Teagan Pulman coming off replaced by Hunt with an hour gone. Fenner needed back in defence as Cudone looks to feed Katie Steward in on the right. James coming in to tackle Katie Steward as she breaks on with the ball right channel. Keeley Steward called into action again for Peterborough as Plitsch battling to get onto the ball with Hatfield, wrestles free to break on into the box one on one closing Steward down, the keeper stays big as Plitsch smashes her shot, the keeper getting her body behind it to bring it down into her body.

Keeley Steward pulling off another quality save for Peterborough

Hatfield appearing to fall heavily as she tried to stop Plitsch is still down a break for treatment is up on her feet though and able to play on. Stimson winning Park a corner on the left, the delivery into the near post cleared behind for a 2nd corner. The ball played into the top of the area for Stimson, Hatfield into her quickly to prevent the shot. No let up play a little frantic at times players closing down passes rushed. James has taken a few knocks for Park and is in need of some attention off the field for the moment.

Katie Steward Peterborough’s main threat ready for the forwards pass, Cudone looking the most likely to provide it, Steward pulling off the defence right of goal Marshall getting back at her to throw herself across her to block send the ball out for a corner. Park clearing their lines. The hosts getting on right side a throw won top of the area played into Hunt quickly closed down, lays it back for Plitsch to strike from 20 yards out her first time effort swinging wide of the right post.

Park Ladies, Charlotte Marshall

Cudone up on the left twisting inside off a throw in attempting the shot sliced wide across the six yard box, Codie Steward pulling off the Park defence can’t get anything on it. Plitsch winning the ball central back for Brown to clip a diagonal ball out to Fenner wide left her cross into the ball headed clear by Barhoumi. Abby Deighton coming onto the pitch for Park with 12 minutes left on the clock replacing  James.

Leah Cudone

Powell taking the ball don the line for Park wide right inside for Stimson, Frederick winning the ball back for Peterborough. Codie Steward and Dortch off for Peterborough with Grace Sipson and Frankie Taylor coming on. Cudone breaking on through the middle for Peterborough her advance halted by the raised flag. Park pressing players on Brown bringing the ball on through the middle laying it out to Powell on the right her cross flashed into the box races out to the far side missing everyone, Fenner gathering left side sending it back into the mix, Peterborough scramble it out of the area players from both sides after the loose ball 25 yards out, Marshall onto it first sliding onto the ball taken down by the Peterborough player attempting to clear the ball, her shot angled wide, play brought back for the free-kick however Marshall adjudged to have been fouled much to Peterborough’s displeasure. Marshall suffering from cramp a pause before the set-piece is taken.

GOAL! Plitsch over the free-kick, goes for goal is struck beautifully angling in to loop and dip under the keeper, much like Steward’s strike in the first half puts Park back on level terms 1-1. 

Fran Plitsch scoring the equaliser for Park pictured here battling for possession with Peterborough Sports captain, Evie Hatfield

Park coming back to level in the closing minutes of the match. A blow for Peterborough, Park with renewed energy. Fenner with a powerful run into the box from the left stopped by Peterborough’s Barhoumi. A throw high on the left to the hosts as they look to keep the pressure on. Kulesza back to win the ball finding Sipson up top passing to Cudone to the right forwards tackled by Park’s Fox, Jackson clearing the ball. Steward on the right just inside the box striking over for Peterborough.

Park clearing the ball hooked on for Stimson peeling away right her ball into the top of the box cut out by Gorkel as the game moves into injury time. 2 minutes indicated. Holcroft dismayed back in her six yard box as a sliced back pass comes into her at an awkward high, unable to handle it heads the ball away to the right, Park back to clear. The hosts rapidly getting the ball up the other end winning a free-kick Peterborough unhappy with the decision. Park finishing strong sensing they might get something the clock ticking down the 2 minutes up.

GOAL! Park pushing up a throw high on the left played into brown right corner outside the area, hooks a hopeful ball high into the box, Steward letting it bounce doesn’t come for it spins away to the far post Plitsch lunging in to get her head on the ball power it into the back of the net to score the winner at the death 2-1!

Fran Plitsch popping up at the back post to score the winner for Park ladies

Little time left after the restart for Peterborough to respond hit with a sucker punch at the death the game turned completely on it’s head Park winning ending Peterborough’s unbeaten record.

Full time Park Ladies 2-1 Peterborough Sports Ladies

  So for the 2nd time this season I’ve seen a last gasp winner. Park coming back from a goal down in the first half to not only equalise late on but clinch the winning goal. Suspect they might have been happy with the point scoring so late on but really in terms of the title race was a must win game, go 8 points clear now and that still might not be enough to win the title, Peterborough with 3 games in hand can still finish a point above them but now they know what has to be done every game now till the end of the season is a cup final and in the world of football you can never predict what will happen. One thing’s for certain will be exciting to find out. An entertaining game from two evenly matched sides little in it, a wonder strike from Katie Steward giving Peterborough a first half lead. Started the 2nd half well coming close to getting a 2nd. Park worked hard throughout battling for the ball getting forwards paying off with a late equaliser and from there the winner.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Sometimes (not often) it’s easy and today is one of those days a few performances of note to mention first. For Peterborough, Katie Steward was strong in attack, running with the ball and getting into some great positions an excellent strike to give them the lead. Keeley Steward with some wonderful saves in goal. Leah Cudone too was good on the ball moving it well and linked up well with both Steward sisters in attack. Thought she had retired so very pleased I got to see her in action again and her experience will be invaluable to Peterborough’s youngsters. For Park the whole side worked hard to win the ball a physical game both sides will be feeling the knocks tomorrow. Charlotte Marshall in particular getting into win her challenges put in blocks and break up attacks at the back. Imogen James too with a number of vital tackles. Today’s winner though had the award in the bag even before she scored the equaliser let alone the winning goal. Fran Plitsch with an excellent performance in midfield. Winning the ball getting it and herself forwards with intent covering alot of ground.

An enjoyable return to Parkfield Sports Club, good to see both sides, catch up with Park and several familiar faces with Peterborough Sports My thanks to both for their help with the team details and the hospitality. Getting into the business end of the season lots to look forwards too.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Wednesday 22nd February

FAWNL South East Division One

 Midweek football action from The Abbey Stadium this Wednesday evening with a game from FAWNL South East Division One the Cambridge derby with Cambridge United WFC hosting Cambridge City Ladies.

One time together the Cambridge Women breaking away from City to become an established club in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid merging with Cambridge United FC with the link between the clubs male and female sides becoming closer with a new women’s board at the start of the season. Cambridge City building on their strong youth set-up to rise rapidly through the pyramid themselves to join their local rivals in South East Division One.

A healthy rivalry exists between the two, a local derby always bringing with it an extra bit of spice into any league campaign. City often a thorn in United’s side over the past few season’s United have had the upper hand so far this campaign beating City both in league and cup competitions.

Cambridge United WFC now fully integrated with Cambridge United FC, with a new women’s board and better youth development through the centre of excellence. Playing a number of matches at The Abbey Stadium this season including this evenings derby, have games against London Seaward FC and Actonians Ladies to come. Currently 7th in the FAWNL South East Division One table have lost ground on the top six over recent games and will want to improve their points tally get back amongst it. Several players coming and going over the close season with Sarah Wiltshire the marquee signing with lots of experience playing in the FAWNL the striker netting 15 goals so far this season. New players joining all the time as they look to build a strong competitive squad one of those ex-City player Bella Simmons who was at United before enjoying a successful spell with their local rivals. Hitting the ground running with 2 goals in 4 matches plus player of the match displays.

  Cambridge City Ladies themselves appear to be in something of a transitional phase with several changes to the management team and playing personnel over the past months. The club build on a strong youth set-up that still remains the foundation with plenty of young talent coming through. Of late though have lost several senior players including Simmons and top scorer Grace Stanley moving to QPR. Young players pushed up to meet the challenge of playing in the FAWNL, have added Eva Hubbard, ex Ipswich captain, Sarah Payne formerly with Harlow Town Ladies and striker Haile Richards from Biggleswade as they look to get away from the bottom of the table with just one win on the board before this evenings game lay 2nd bottom. Although bottom side Hounslow Women are struggling to fin a side let alone a win you don’t want to e in that position. Far from ideal preparations for the match to with City travelling to Hounslow on Sunday only to find their opponents couldn’t field a team!

   This evening seeing a tribute to Cambridge United WFC’s, Kayleigh-Anne Burt. Retiring from football after playing for the club for17 years, coming through the centre of excellence at 16 with 300 appearances going on to become club captain, winning several county cups along the way. The defender a much loved member of the club. From a personal point of view, one of my favourite players have enjoyed watching her play. From my early days of coming to watch Cambridge Women made me feel welcome and always helpful and approachable. A leader on and off the field loyal to the club, a true legend. Wishing Kayleigh all the best for for whatever comes after football. Enjoy your footballing retirement.

Kayleigh-Anne Burt retiring after 17 years playing for Cambridge United WFC

Tonight’s derby match one of a number of Cambridge United WFC matches to be played at The Abbey Stadium as they look to get more people watching the woman’s team showcase women’s football within the county and beyond. A League One stadium with a fantastic playing surface. The main stand open with hot food and drinks available. The weather remain unusually mild and pleasant for February, dry and still.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Mayzee Seymour, Carrie Bennett, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Sammy Edgar, Gisela Otten (C), Sydnie Naylor, Ella Mardon, Francesca Partridge & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Libby Fraser, Kaylen Gerkey.

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Emily Struthers, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Fran Steele, Paige Gardiner, Erin Davies, Rebecca Stephenson, Jess Fitzpatrick, Eva Hubbard & Haile Richards. Subs – Sarah Payne, Ellen Marson, Rose Sparrow, Alexandra Pryke & Sophie Billing.

United losing Bella Simmons and midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down due to injuries picked up in the weekends friendly match in preparation for tonight’s match. Both ides with 5 available on the bench. It’s City to kick-off the first half wearing white shirts with back shorts and black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played long out to the left side for Eva Hubbard seen safely out of play by United’s Mayzee Seymour.

City work the ball inside from the throw in the diagonal pass put long into the box for attacker Haile Richards right side heads into the corner played up the line for Amy Reed drives towards the right corner of the area a strong challenge from defender Rachel Kosky for United seeing the attack quelled the ball cleared.

Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City with a free-kick wide left an early opportunity to send players forwards attacked left of the D, deflected towards goal, goalkeeper Lauren Webb right behind it to claim safely. Kosky with a long range pass forwards from the back looking for Francesca Partridge on the left side, intercepted by City’s Emily Struthers at the back. United rush in to close the ball down in the middle of the park played on by Sammy Edgar to Partridge has full back Carrie Bennett racing on to support the ball rolled into her path crosses it in towards the top of the area central headed clear by City’s Fran Steele.

Women’s Football East sponsored player, Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to get the ball moving rapidly take the game to their opponents Kosky forwards for Edgar looking for Partridge making a left channel run. Struthers getting their first to cut out the ball. Partridge with good footwork to get inside her marker on the left, has Sarah Wiltshire coming across as she turns infield finds her with the pass Wiltshire heading for the area held up, United get numbers up to press the ball back to Partridge left her cross claimed by City goalkeeper and captain, Sarah Hudson.

Certainly has a derby feel with United working to close the ball down keep possession in City’s half of the pitch Wiltshire running at the defence, both Steele and Bronwyn Mulheron putting tackles in to deny her an opportunity to shoot. Cleared from the back into Jessie Fitzpatrick central City mount an attack played on for Richards up top turns playing it out right to Reed racing up the pitch, her cross squared back across the top of the area intercepted and cleared by Edgar for United.

Bronwyn Mulheron tackling United’s Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United seeing more of the ball in the early exchanges but City are working hard at the back prevent anyone getting in behind. Steele with a vital touch to head the bouncing ball out of the marauding Wiltshire’s path at the top of the box as she attempts to run onto a well placed ball clipped on from the middle. Fitzpatrick taking the ball right for City getting on before sending a cross into the United box, won by centre back, Lauren Rouse.

Bennett finding space to run into on the left giving good support to Partridge looks to play the diagonal ball forwards into Wiltshire as the United striker, Hudson alert to the threat out of her six yard box to get to the flight of the ball first. United pressing on Sydnie Naylor combining with Ella Marden on the right, Hubbard breaking up play for City. United captain Gisela Otten closing the ball down to keep the pressure on City on for Naylor lifted on for Wiltshire, Hudson again out to the top of her area early to grab the ball.

Sydnie Naylor on the attack (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to dictate a high tempo the full backs able to get on keep City pushed back inside their own half. Wiltshire dispossessed, City try to mount a quick counter on for Fitzpatrick through the middle into Richards, Rouse quickly into her to tackle prevent the potential attack. Wiltshire getting her own back moments later stealing the ball off Steele at the back 20 yards out knocking it on into the area, racing after it, Hudson advancing to the ball throwing herself down to slide in bravely at the attackers feet getting her body behind the ball to save.

Wiltshire always lively up top moving about the back line a willing runner and outlet for the forwards pass, Partridge attempts to pick her out with  diagonal ball, Steele winning it for City. United with a free-kick inside the City half to the right players up lined up across the top of the rea fired in, Otten seeing it into her feet 20 yards out with the turn and volley deflected through bodies into the six yard box. Wiltshire after it but can’t quite get to the ball as it skips up in front of Hudson and is caught.

Cambridge City’s Fran Steele

United advance left a throw won Bennett into Wiltshire drags the ball inside lining up a strike from 25 yards out rising is straight to Hudson and claimed by the goalkeeper. 20 minutes played United pressing the advantage Wiltshire collecting the ball from a deeper position lifting it on for Naylor racing on through the middle, City get back en masse to deny her a route through towards goal.

GOAL! United maintain the pressure in midfield as City attempt to clear their lines, Wiltshire sharp pulling off to the right inside the box as the ball is won back and lifted forwards seeing it drop over her smashes it past the keeper into the back of the net to score the opening goal 1-0.

Sarah Wiltshire on target for the opening goal for United (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United leading 1-0 (photo credit Sean Doyle)

16 goals from 16 games for Wilshire now putting United into a deserved lead the hosts coming onto City. Mulheron getting a foot in in the nick of time on Partridge as United break through the middle, the ball running away for a corner kick. The delivery into a busy six yard box headed away to the right, before play is stopped by a raised flag.

Kosky getting her foot in to deny Richards up top for City as she attempts to see the ball roll across her body and turn from a Hubbard pass from the left. Richards and Fitzpatrick combining as the pair come on for City right channel, Bennett defending for United. Erin Davies frustrated in the centre of midfield for City with a good tackle to get the ball forwards into Fitzpatrick, her threaded pass forwards unable to find Richards up top. A few fouls being given away by City as they look to get themselves going.

Mulheron getting back well on Wiltshire to defend for City as the United striker takes the ball off Marden on the right and turns inside making a run for the box. Kosky allowed time on the ball at the back able to pick a pass goes long with Wiltshire pulling off the defence, too much on it however Hudson taking it safely. Steele cuts the ball out at the back as Wiltshire drifting over to the left looks to find Partridge through the middle, the clearance as has been often the case quickly coming back with Edgar, Naylor and Otten in this case winning the ball back for United.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Bennett bombing on left side her pass on catching Partridge offside. Otten central out to Marden on the right has support from Wiltshire the pass inside, shifts to go one way checking back inside Mulheron adjusting to get her foot in to take the ball away from her. Hubbard drifting into a central position with a telling pass forwards for City cutting the United defence open Richards running on, Webb though sharp to respond out quickly to the top of the area to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge United captain, Gisela Otten (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City battling for possession Davies with the ball long on the diagonal to Richards making a run into the area, Kosky getting across her the defender shielding the ball out for goal kick. United with the ball high on the left Bennett up with Partridge and Wiltshire playing a short triangle the ball coming to Wilshire outside the box left of the D, Davies tracking back from midfield getting the  block in to deny the shot.

City with a few encouraging signs towards the latter stages of the first half the ball played into Richards feet 20 odd yards out central does well to roll her marker shift the ball right and turn onto the shot a vicious drive on target low comes onto Webb quickly improvises well with a fantastic save with her shins as she falls back to deflect the ball away to the right. Pressure from Partridge sees the ball lost on the City right picks out Naylor central forwards to Wilshire, Fitzpatrick with the challenge for City.

Cambridge City captain Sarah Hudson sliding in to deny Sarah Wiltshire in the 1st half (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  United with the lead at half-time Sarah Wiltshire’s 16th goal of the season the difference between the sides scoring in the 20th minute. A dominant first half from the hosts with City sitting back soaking up alot of pressure. Have battled well to keep their opponents chances limited with Wiltshire getting on clear chance in behind the defence to score. City have been frustrated but showed signs towards the end of the first half that they are far from out of the game and with the lead just a single goal the result is far from certain.

No changes for either side at the break with United to get the 2nd half underway in front of a crowd of 371. The ball played back into midfield, City straight in the close the ball down the action frantic at the start as the ball in hustled all over the pitch. City working the ball across the pitch out to the right claimed by Wedd in the United goal.

Partridge on through the middle with a good touch to send the ball on towards the box, Hudson out well to clear. City get the ball on through the middle Hubbard more central on for Richards a race with Rouse towards the box the United defender getting to the ball to clear. Bennett still getting forwards on the left for United on for Wilshire, Reed coming back at her to win the ball back for City. A much more even start to the 2nd half City getting into United higher up the pitch to disrupt play a little bitty at times with passes being forced and possession lost.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

United have a break on Wiltshire moving right on for Naylor, Mulheron stretching to make the challenge getting hold of the ball. Richards frustrated as she gives away a foul kicking the ball away, a word from the referee. City getting into United higher up the pitch is seeing the passes forwards into Wiltshire restricted. Hubbard linking with Davies in the middle on for Richards, Kosky getting in close to challenge for United.

Stephenson out left for City seeing the ball into her feet back to goal spins off her marker well to check inside the pass for Richards intercepted by Edgar for United. Stephenson with another clever turn this time frustrated as the flag goes up against her. Edgar coming forwards with the ball at her feet right channel on for Wiltshire making a run down the line checking back on the by-line up towards the corner of the area getting a looping shot away looking for the top corner drops into Hudson’s waiting gloves.

Haile Richards with Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City much improved with Hubbard in with Davies allowing the visitors number 8 more time to pick a pass give the attacking plyers something to run onto. United under a bit of pressure now themselves at the back. Richards on the run with the ball right side bundled over City with the free-kick 35 yards out, Hubbard over it an ambitious effort going for goal, out straight at Webb the goalkeeper untroubled.

Erin Davies (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Edgar fouled coming forwards for United inside the City half. Naylor playing the ball low in towards the top of the area Wiltshire putting it across the D, City scramble it clear. City with a set-piece launched into the box, a firm header from Kosky to clear for United. Bennett left up to Partridge attempting to flick it on behind and run onto the ball gives herself too much to do as Hudson rushes out to claim the ball. City making their first change bringing on 16-year-old Sophie Billing for her first team debut, for Struthers going up top sees a shift of personnel, City feeling they’re right back in the game.

Kosky pushing up on Richards the striker doing well to drag the ball wide and spin in behind feeding the pass on for Billing up top clear to attack, Webb out to get to the ball top of her area. Billing combining with Stephenson in attack on the left, Seymour seeing it out for the throw, the cross played into the top of the area hooked clear by Edgar. Steele appears to have picked up a knock for City coming off to be assessed.

GOAL! City with a strong start to the 2nd half get themselves back on level terms with a top quality finish from Hubbard from all of 30 yards out. Gardiner forwards to Stephenson on the left comes inside playing the pass into Hubbard central, sees the opportunity making great contact with the ball sending it up towards goal Webb back on her line can’t get a touch as it dips under the bar to make it 1-1.

Eva Hubbard striking the ball to make it 1 all for Cambridge City (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City celebrate their equaliser (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Steele has come off replaced by Ellen Marson. City full of confidence now pressing the ball winning a free-kick on the left as Stephenson is bundled over. 30 yards out Hubbard to flight it in towards the top of the area Richards stretching for it can’t get enough of a touch to knock it past the defence United clear. United with a double change on the right bringing off Seymour and Marden for Abi Davies and Abbie Jackson. City too making another change bringing on Sarah Payne for Gardiner.

City winning a corner on the left players up as the ball is flung in across the six yard box, Webb up well amongst the crowd to glove the ball away to drop behind to the right for another corner. Put in near side Fitzpatrick attempting to knock it in towards the near post too many bodies to get through cleared.

Lauren Webb gloving the ball away

City looking energized now up for it as the crowd try to gee up United with a little over 15 minutes left to play. Richards gathering the ball right of Reed turning for goal 30 yards out clattered over winning the set-piece. Over it herself goes for goal the attempt straight at Webb held. United aren’t finding it as easy to get the balls into their attackers 2nd half with City more competitive in the middle Hubbard and Davies pressing the ball finding Stephenson out left Richards with support from Billing moving about to get onto the ball.

Abi Davies with Rebecca Stephenson (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Richards game done however as she comes off for Alexandra Pryke late in the game. Davies with a shot from distance off a eft side throw for City on target but straight at Webb. United making a change Kosky off at the back replaced by new signing Kaylen Gerkey. Naylor coming through the middle for United a powerful run riding a challenge driving threaded into the area for Wiltshire moving left on into the six yard box rapidly losing room for a shot gets an angled ball in low but taken by Hudson.

City finishing the game the stronger pressing the ball not giving United any time fighting to keep what they’ve got at the end Jackson cutting out Payne pass on for Billing outside the box.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  All over and the points are shared. A game of two halves literally. United the better side in the first half getting into City pushing on and spreading the ball about the park controlling the middle taking a deserved lead. City battled hard to keep them at bay not wanting to expose any gaps in behind conceding were encouraging signs towards the end of the first half. A few tweaks to positioning a a much improved 2nd half on the front foot competing for the ball in the middle while limiting United passes into their forwards a more even contest did feel another United goal might kill it off but it didn’t come and City found the equaliser through a wonderful finish from Eva Hubbard, giving them renewed energy and confidence might well have gone either way at the end after that. Will meet again this season in the upcoming Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final, City the current holders. United back in the competition after a year out where they went on to win the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Cup, on the basis to this evenings game a mouthing game awaits.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. No easy one this with several contenders putting themselves forwards. Carrie Bennett had an excellent game out on the left for United relishing a derby got herself about the park, putting in a number of tackles. Rachel Kosky too at the back with a several key challenges and interceptions, showing a good range of passing. Sarah Wiltshire’s movement causing City’s defence problems especially first half as she moved across the back line looking to create openings and receive the ball, took her goal well. For City, Fran Steele was strong at the back getting in to win the ball and clear threats. Haile Richards impressed up top working hard running into the channels and linking up play. Although Erin Davies was a frustrated figure in the first half the 2nd half adjustments saw her have more influence in the middle and won her fair share of the ball. Tonight’s award though goes to Cambridge City’s Eva Hubbard was a sublime finish to get City back on level terms. Working hard for the team both tracking back to defend and get forwards moving more central 2nd half to get amongst the midfield.

 Another enjoyable evening at The Abbey Stadium, my tanks to both teams for this assistance tonight and my thanks to Sean Doyle for using his pictures in the report. A great advert for football in Cambridge long my the rivalry continue. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Fakenham Town Ladies

Sunday 19th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

Quarter finals weekend in this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup. 4 strong ties with the seeded teams entering the competition. Today’s fixture featuring an all ERWFL line up with Premier Division sides Wroxham Women taking on ERWFL newcomers Fakenham Town Ladies for a place in the last 4 of the cup.

 Sponsored by Harrod Sports the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final will once again take place at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road stadium. Hosting the final twice previously, Wymondham Town Ladies winning on both occasions. Wymondham one of the seeded teams, the holders have since very sadly folded thus a new side will lift the trophy on Friday 19th May. A resurgent Norwich City Women looking the hot favourites to vying to reach Carrow Road for the first time in the competition, with ERWFL Premier Division sides, Wroxham Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies the other seeded teams.

 The quarter final draw pitting two of those seeded teams together with Norwich City Women hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Two county level sides are guaranteed a place in the last 4 of the cup with last season’s finalists Mulbarton Belles Ladies hosting Thetford Town Ladies. While Norfolk Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women are away to Division Two side KLSC FC Women.

Wroxham Women themselves looking to get to the County Cup final for the 1st time. Have had an up and down season in the ERWFL Premier Division, sitting in mid-table under new manager Joe Simpson alot of new players have joined and it has taken time to settle. Have a good blend of youth and experience, able to bring in a trio of ex-Wymondham players in striker Hannah Waters, midfielder Jennifer Codman and defender Lauren Kett to further strengthen the squad. Waters top scorer with 11 goals from 11 appearances. The County Cup representing a strong opportunity for silverware.

  Fakenham Town Ladies entering the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in the previous round, a potential banana skin away to a young and exciting looking Sprowston FC Women, however goals from, Nicole Costin, Sophie Lubbock and Chloe Gravett saw Fakenham come out on top of a physical tie reach the last 8 of the competition. Winning the League Cup last season Fakenham have moved up into regional league football for the 1st time. Has been a steep learning curve but one the squad has relished despite making a poor start losing their opening 5 games have rallied well working hard with a run of positive results in November to carry into the new year plus a good run in the ERWFL League Cup. Sophie Lubbock top scorer with 10 with Chloe Gravett on 9. Today’s County Cup game another stern test.

  The venue for today’s game the FDC in Bowthorpe, having previously been on at The Open FDC in Sprowston. Wroxham Women usually playing at Trafford Park along side Wroxham FC the grass pitch has seen alot of action and in need of a little TLC, and with fixture slots running out for Wroxham Women and the Trafford Park pitch receiving a little attention the decision was made to switch venues. Norfolk FA’s FDC (Football Development Centres) spread out about the city and beyond across the county. Providing playing pitches for a number of clubs and communities. The FDC in Bowthorpe boasting the Harrod Sport Arena the large 3G pitch hosting a number of finals with viewing on three sides a small seated stand with the clubhouse beyond serving hot and cold drinks. Brilliant weather considering it’s February, bright and sunny with the sun low in the sky, no wind perfect playing conditions.

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Breanna Rudd, Lucy Bradford, Jess Horn (C), Tigi Robson, Zara O’Neill, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell, Lauren Bullard, Holly Connell & Hannah Waters. Subs – Lara Densley, Holly Walker, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Lauren Kett.

Fakenham Town Ladies

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Ciah-Lilly Rudkin, Maddie Smith, Amie Hutchinson, Jemma Riches (C), Sian Sands, Nicole Costin, Vicky Lubbock, Chloe Gravett, Ruby Curtis, Shelley Woods & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Tilly Betts Hayley Marjoram, Olivia Baker, Megan Spurrell & Holly Davies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides naming a strong starting line-up with 5 each on the bench. Wroxham with the kick-off first half attacking into the sun with the right side of the pitch well shaded by high trees, the ‘hosts’ wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Fakenham lined up opposite wearing Amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to captain Jess Horn in the defence, sprays her pass long out to the right for Lauren Bullard to attack, Fakenham close her down the ball cleared.

  GOAL! Wroxham come straight back at Fakenham on the right the ball won in midfield forwards for Bullard has Becky Russell up with her inside the ball knocked into the midfielder releases it forwards for striker Hannah Waters to pull off the defence right of goal and strike the ball low across the keeper, Fakenham’s Ciah-Lilly Rudkin down smartly to try and get something on the ball, not enough and it deflected up off her into the bottom corner. Wroxham a goal up inside the opening minute 1-0.

Hannah Waters scoring in the opening minute for Wroxham (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  The perfect start to the cup tie for Wroxham and they stay on the front foot closing the ball down in the middle getting on on rapidly players running at the Fakenham defence Bullard right side crossing into the box long gathered by Waters beyond the far post, lays it back to the top of the D for midfielder Zara O’Neill, shoots her attempt blocked by Fakenham captain, Jemma Riches. Jennifer Codman once with Fakenham before moving on to enjoy a successful spell with Wymondham now with Wroxham attacks on the left linking up with full back Breanna Rudd, Ruby Curtis getting in amongst the pair to regain possession for Fakenham. 

Fakenham’s Ruby Curtis

  All Wroxham at the start the game condensed in the middle the ball won are quick to get on the counter with Bullard, Waters and Holly Connell all showing good movement and pace in attack. Connell winning a corner on the right, players up into the box the delivery floated in towards the penalty spot a decisive header clear from Fakenham’s Shelley Woods. With Wroxham pushing Fakenham back keeping them inside their own half getting out is proving difficult, Nicole Costin finding Chloe Gravett out wide left looks to get on with the ball stopped by Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Woods with another clearance inside the box from a Wroxham corner on the right. Codman with a heavy tackle on Smith as the Fakenham defender comes to clear the ball. Sophie Lubbock up top for Fakenham is somewhat isolated looking to plough her own furrow whenever the ball comes into her feet, turns well on the right looking to drive for the box, Rudd getting back on her to challenge the ball gone for a throw. Wroxham alive to the counter attack the defence having runners left and right Bullard picked out right side down the line her cross into the top of the area a vital interception from Riches with Waters ready to take it on behind.

Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

  Fakenham mount an attack on the left Gravett winning a throw high up the pitch combines with Sophie Lubbock the cross put long into the six yard box, Curtis attacking the far post can’t quite get anything on it. Wroxham send it clear the counter attack sprung, Connell with a good show of pace bombing on right side her cross whipped into the six yard box, Rudkin down low to make a safe claim. Russell over on the left for Wroxham on down the line for Waters moving into the corner, plays it back up the line for Russell to play the pass into her path as she runs into the box heading for the by-line Riches comes steaming in to make the blocking tackle the ball gone for a corner kick. Russell slicing her cross from the corner the ball swerving across the top of the area cleared by Sian Sands.

  GOAL! Wroxham capitalise on their fast start to the game by racing into a 2 goal lead, this one all about pace. The ball won inside the Wroxham half with Fakenham pushed up the pass threaded through the middle for Connell to chase, has the speed to out pace the defence to run onto the box right of the D, Rudkin racing out to try and close her down, Connell composed slotting the ball past her to find the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Holly Connell racing away to score Wroxham’s 2nd

  15 minutes on the clock Wroxham 2 goals to the good and looking strong taking the game to Fakenham. Gravett coming left getting the throw, Sophie Lubbock with the turn and dribbles the ball all the way into the box before being tackled by O’Neill. Sands racing on looking to get hold of the loose ball, can’t get a shot away, nor can Vicky Lubbock as the midfielder presses up into the box, Wroxham scrambling the ball to safety. 

Fakenham’s Sophie Lubbock

 Codman tackling Sophie Lubbock sets up a counter releasing Connell on the right to power her way to the by-line Rudkin coming out to close her down does well sliding in at her feet winning getting the goal kick. Smith at the back cutting out Rudd’s pass for Waters looking to steal in behind on the left. Curtis has picked up an injury for Fakenham looks to be a hamstring can’t continue the away side making their first change Megan Spurrell coming on to the right of midfield. Fouled as soon as she gets on the ball Fakenham have a free-kick on half way, Smith to play the ball up to Sophie Lubbock, brings it down 25 out passing it to Spurrell wide right, Rudd getting into her to tackle for Wroxham.

  The foul count beginning to add up for a few players on both sides, as yet now malice just a competitive affair. Gravett needed to help out at the back for Fakenham aswell as attack on the flank does well to get her head on the ball to cut out O’Neill’s diagonal ball intended to set Connell away on the wing. Fakenham rarely press Wroxham in front of their box but when they van get forwards in numbers that looks to be where they will get the most joy. Connell’s pace a threat, Gravett able to match it this time as she races back to put the ball out for a throw. 

  GOAL! Wroxham off a throw in on the left Waters takes the ball on her cross fired across the top of the area for Bullard, Gravett lunging in to block her shot the ball deflected behind for a corner on the right. The delivery sent in near post area skipping up off the surface met by Codman to twist her neck and send her header into the goal 3-0.

Jennifer Codman with Wroxham’s third goal

  Wroxham pressing their advantage 3 up midway through the first half win the ball straight from the restart coming left Connell wide right inside for Bullard, Hutchinson blocking her shot from 20 yards out. 

Fakenham’s Nicole Costin

  GOAL! Fakenham are unsettled losing possession inside their own half Wroxham pushing their midfielders on the ball rolled inside from the right into O’Neill, 25 plus yards out isn’t closed down puts her foot through the ball getting plenty of power behind it the ball sailing into the back of the net 4-0.

Zara O’Neill with the strike from distance (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Fakenham’s Vicky Lubbock winning the ball inside the Wroxham half pressing forwards on for Spurrell coming inside from the right goes back across the pitch to Gravett left who aims to play the ball on for Lubbock continuing her run through the middle, Tigi Robson getting across the midfielder to tackle send the ball behind for a corner kick. Fakenham make a bit of a mess of the resulting corner failing to get a cross in but from the resulting throw Gravett drags the ball inside before sending a decent strike wide across the face of the Wroxham goal.

Tigi Robson

  Robson pressing on from the back getting a favourable deflection off a 50/50 ball to run in behind the defence left side playing the pass on for Waters who skips inside into the box bearing down on the near post shots low, Hutchinson diving in to try and cut it out not putting off Rudkin beyond who is down sharply to make the stop. Russell with a shot from 30 yards out left side bouncing wide of goal. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Spurrell is getting on better on the right for Fakenham pressing high her challenge seeing the ball rebound off a defender with Sophie Lubbock alert to run onto it inside the box and strike it on the angle low towards goal, Cyan Fullbrook with little to do so far has it covered as she drops to claim. 

Fakenham’s Megan Spurrell

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham are thinking they might get some joy in attack they are hit with a further blow pushed up are hit on the counter attack as Waters running through the defence beats the offside trap to head for a one on one with the advancing Rudkin, Waters with Riches on her shoulder touching the ball around the keeper, going right towards the six yard box, Riches wrong side can’t get to the ball as Waters calmly sends it home for her 2nd of the game.

A first half brace for Wroxham’s Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Bradford with a robust challenge of Vicky Lubbock in the centre that sees the Fakenham midfielder down in some pain clutching her shoulder. A lengthy pause for treatment. Is unable to continue Fakenham forced into another change with Olivia Baker coming on late in the first half. From the resulting free-kick top of the centre circle Woods has only one intention to take on the shot hit well but wide. 

  Rudd with a quality diagonal pass to pick out Bullard on the move right side stretching the Fakenham defence her cross whipped in dangerous at the near post, Rudkin with the save of the half an excellent stop at close range… as the header is deflected goalwards off the back tracking Riches head (might be a pint owed there). Smith the latest Fakenham player to receive a heavy blow but is up after a moment’s recovery.

Chloe Gravett with Lauren Bullard

  Riches with a well timed tackle on Waters left of the box as Codman looks to send the ball on. Bradford bringing down Gravett on the right picks up a yellow card for persistent fouling. The free-kick wide on the left in the closing stages of the first half Costin on the ball goes for goal her attempt landing on the roof of the net. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 5-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

 

  Wroxham in control of the quarter final tie going into the half-time interval with a strong 5 goal lead. Have looked the stronger from the opening minute taking the lead and going on to score at regular intervals throughout the first half. A dominant display from the midfield getting the ball into the attacking three quickly with the pace up top causing Fakenham issues. Penned back inside their own half getting forwards has been a challenge the ball all to often coming back quickly. Alot of work for Fakenham to do if they are to have any chance of getting back into it. Wroxham though can control the pace of the 2nd half.

(photo credit Daniel Kett)

  No more changes for either side as they come out for the 2nd half. Spurrell and Baker coming on for Fakenham in the first half through injuries to Curtis and Vicky Lubbock. Fakenham to get the 2nd period underway the ball into Costin back to Hutchinson in defence lifted forwards to the left, cut out by Bradford for Wroxham. 

 Russell turning on the ball in midfield for Wroxham looking to play the ball into Waters up top, cut out well by Riches. Bullard out wide on the right seeing the ball deflected back into her path strikes it on the angle Rudkin back on her line collecting it into her gloves as it skips up in front of her. Sands into Costin on for Baker, Fakenham building a solid attack, Baker pushing forwards aiming for Gravett, Horn coming to close her down tackling the ball out for a throw. From the resulting throw on the left Baker sees it cross her body well hitting the pass in across the top of the D, Woods looking to turn onto it a strike as it bounces up off the surface, Horn throwing herself forwards to knock it out of her path.

Fakenham’s Olivia Baker

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham look to be getting some momentum going forwards they are hit with another sucker punch as Wroxham hit them on the counter the ball played on rapidly through the middle on for Connell central to run clear of the defence and run on for another one on one with the keeper, Rudkin diving in trying to get the ball Connell squeezing it past her and seeing it run on into the goal beyond to net her 2nd of the game 6-0.

  A pause in play as Gravett picks up a head injury, time taken to be accessed before being allowed to continue. Riches needs to make the ball hers at the back for Fakenham as Connell hooks one forwards for Waters to attack left of the D, the defender winning her clearance sending the ball wide for a throw. Waters gathering the ball on the left driving on stopped by Smith for Fakenham. Again Fakenham look a threat when pressing the Wroxham back line forcing errors Fullbrook’s kick out from the goal falling straight to Costin left of the box 25 yards out, drags her shot wide of the near post.

Becky Russell holding off Jemma Riches

Woods with the ball in an advanced position on the left for Fakenham sending an angled cross into the top of the area, a glancing header from Horn as she goes to clear the ball enough to deflect it away from Sophie Lubbock to her left. Wroxham make their first change of the game Codman coming off to be replaced by Lara Densley. Riches getting her foot in to tackle Connell top of the D.

Fakenham captain Jemma Riches (photo credit Daniel Kett)

GOAL! Wroxham further extend their lead as they build well on the left players getting on to support Waters the attacker striking the ball from the left corner of the area to see it race across the goal into the bottom corner to complete her hat-trick. 7-0.

A hat-trick for Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Wroxham 7 goals to the good both sides ringing the changes Fakenham bringing 3 off, Smith, Hutchinson and Costin all replaced, Hayley Marjoram, Tilly Betts and Holly Davies coming on. Wroxham with a double change Rudd and Bradford coming off the full backs replaced by Lauren Kett and Keela Olive. Wroxham winning a free-kick wide left Connell on the ball flighted into the near post claimed well by Rudkin with Waters lurking.

  Fakenham deflated continue to battle despite being on the back foot Wroxham with renewed energy pouring forwards Russell into the box sees her she blocked the ball ricocheting to Bullard wide right of goal inside the box scoops it across to Waters closing in on the near post she shot held well by Rudkin back on her line as she gets down to take it into her body.

Fakenham’s Chloe Gravett

  Gravett on the move with the ball releases Sophie Lubbock on half way, running for goal has alot of ground to cover and three Wroxham defenders converge to crowd the striker off the ball. 

  GOAL! Kett winning the ball at the back with a good ball forwards for Waters pulling away to the right her low drive in across the face of goal not held by Rudkin comes back off the post Connell on the follow up closing in back heeling the ball home from close range to net her hat-trick. 8-0.

Holly Connell nets a hat-trick for Wroxham

  Despite the goals racking up Riches is doing all she can to limit the damage at the back for Fakenham winning a number of vital balls is on hand once again to deny Waters inside the six yard box to concede the corner kick. The inswinging delivery plucked down well by Rudkin. Rudkin coming out to take the ball as she sees Waters turn on the left towards her box.

  GOAL! Waters quicker to release her shot moments later as she gets hold of the ball on the left to send her strike past the advancing keeper heading in at the near post, denied by Betts as the substitute blocks the ball on the line can’t do much about the follow up as the deflected ball comes straight to Bullard to curl the ball inside the left post 9-0.

  Bullard coming off then for Wroxham replaced by Ellie Overton. Wroxham leading by 9 goals know how it feels to be on the other end of that score line. On top this afternoon dominating the game a strong performance and look hungry for more goals as they come on at will. Gravett a willing runner for Fakenham looking to make something happen traveling with the ball going all the way into the box from the left cutting inside is clipped, but stays on her feet before the ball is blocked and cleared.

Ellie Overton with Sophie Lubbock

  Overton with a cross on the right from  deep position long into the box cut out by Riches falls back into midfield a shot struck from distance held by Rudkin. Wroxham winning a corner out on the right the ball fired in long across the six yard coming to Russell beyond the far post can’t angle her header back on target, taking a nick off a Fakenham body a 2nd corner awarded on the left. Again long to the far post Olive looking to get it down under control inside the six yard box is crowded off the ball before she can get a shot away.

Wroxham defender, Lauren Kett (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Gravett coming off for Fakenham, with Costin back on. Waters pulling away to the right leaning back as she strikes the ball sending her effort over the crossbar. Olive with the pass on for Waters, Riches in to tackle the ball out for a corner on the right.

 GOAL! Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham with a well struck shot. The ball played into the box is knocked down falling straight to Densley top of the area, behind it all the way the goal opens up before her as she puts her laces through the ball to send it into the corner of the net 10-0.

Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham

 Wroxham with a double switch bringing Bullard and Rudd back on for Waters and Robson. Riches blocking the ball at the back as Wroxham send players on. 

  GOAL! One way traffic late in the game Wroxham able to come on at will Fakenham battling in defence. Bullard with the ball on the right wide twisting off her marker to steal in behind to whip a cross into the six yard box, Olive running in at the near post meeting in sweetly on the volley to turn the ball into the back of the net 11-0.

Keela Olive with the volley to make it 11

  Nearly 12 as O’Neill’s strike from distance cones crashing down off the cross bar into the six yard box before being scrambled clear. Rudkin getting down to save on her goal line as Wroxham fire an angled strike in from the left the deflected ball coming to Rudd right of goal smashes her shot back in wide across the goal. 

  Marjoram with a neat bit of defending inside the box to deny Bullard a shot as she attacks from the right cleared for a corner. Spurrell breaking with the ball on the right in the final seconds can’t pick Sophie Lubbock out with the final pass as the final whistle blows.

Full time Wroxham Women 11-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

  Wroxham dominating the game from start to finish booking their place in the last 4 of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup where they will be joined by Norwich City Women, Mulbarton Belles Ladies and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women with be an interesting draw all of these sides have beaten the other on their day in the competition. Wroxham making the perfect start with a goal inside the opening minute adding a 2nd after 15 never let Fakenham settle pressing the ball high the midfield linking up well with the attackers to press the advantage leading 5-0 at the break any response Fakenham could muster 2nd half was quickly extinguished both Waters and Connell going on to score hat-tricks. Raining goals Fakenham were out played a dispiriting result but fought till the end. One result doesn’t defy a season and although it’ll hurt they can be proud of the progress they’ve made as a squad so far.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Not an easy call today by any means several contenders for Wroxham. For Fakenham the stand out player was their captain Jemma Riches without her interceptions and tackles there would have been further goals fought till the end. For Wroxham it was a clinical display that will do no end to boost confidence. Was a strong performance from the midfield trio, Jennifer Codman, Zara O’Neill and Becky Russell winning the ball getting forwards and setting up attacks. Lauren Bullard with a strong game out on the right. Comes down to the hat-trick scorers, Hannah Waters with her experience getting into some great positions and taking her goals well, ultimately Holly Connell’s pace is what caused Fakenham the most issues with her up front Wroxham had a ready outlet for the counter and linked up will with the midfield showing great composure for her goals.

  Never the easiest of report to write when one side has racked up a high score against another but that is football, you never know what’s going to happen. Great to be back at the FDC. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details and to Daniel Kett for the additional photo’s used in today’s report. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Aylsham FC Women v KLSC FC Women

Sunday 12th February

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

The attention this Sunday turns to the title race in Norfolk Women’s Division Two as two of the main contenders meet at Youngs Park, 2nd placed KLSC FC Women taking on newly formed Aylsham FC Women in 5th.

 Alot of games still to be played in the 12 strong league as we approach the middle of February. With the top six sides all well positioned to mount a title challenge. Blofield United Ladies stepping up into woman’s football this season currently on top by 3 points having won 8 of their 10 league games played to date. KLSC FC Women long time leaders dropping back to 2nd with Mulbarton Belles Ladies Development and Thorpe St Andrew Women 3rd and 4th respectfully. Aylsham the only side with a 100% winning rate in 5th having played just 6 of their expected 22 league matches. Gorleston GC Ladies in sixth have games in and too and will be involved in the battle for the title and promotion.

  Aylsham FC Women newly formed this season headed up by former Norwich City Women coach, Steve Kenny. Is the 3rd incantation of a women’s side in Aylsham since I began  Women’s Football East. Adams bringing with him a few ex-Norwich City Women Reserves players adding experienced players such as Charlotte Crane and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor from Stalham Town Ladies build a decent looking squad. Aylsham FC itself always a club with a strong youth set-up keen to have a women’s team and with Youngs Park providing a great community based set-up the facilities are in place to help the woman’s side grow. Certainly get the sense of a team that is very much together and wanting to grow and succeed. 

  One of the favourites before a ball was even kicked Division Two has certainly proved it will be no walk over for anyone with other sides emerging as a force to content with. Aylsham have played just 6 league games to date which is going to make for a busy end to the season. Have won all 6 of those games scoring 50 goals along the way and conceding just 1 goal. Of those 6 games though have yet to face a top 6 side due to a combination of postponements and cup competitions seeing fixtures moved. Today their first real test against a top side. Hannah Claughton showing great form in front of goal top scoring with 16 goals from 9 appearances. Sophie Lubbock dual signed with Fakenham Town Ladies has 13 goals from just 4 appearances with captain Jordan Arnoup bagging a double hat-trick last time out to move into 3rd position in the goal scoring charts with 9.

  KLSC FC Women (King’s Lynn Soccer Club) as I mentioned were the early pacesetters getting games in where others didn’t winning all 7 of their opening league matches to sit top of the Division Two table. A 3-3 draw with a resurgent Thorpe St Andrew Women at the start of 2023 seeing them drop their first points of the season but as yet are unbeaten. Blofield United taking over top spot while KLSC FC Women were in action in the 3rd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a 4-3 win over Division One side Stalham Town Ladies seeing them into the last 8 of the competition. 

  Josie Turner has been prolific in front of goal for KLSC FC Women since their formation in 2021 providing King’s Lynn with a much needed 2nd women’s football side. Finishing 3rd in their debut season behind Caister FC  Ladies and UEA FC Women, Turner netted 21 goals to finish well clear as top scorer. This season Turner is already at 21 goals from just 9 appearances. Today’s trip to Aylsham the 1st of a trio of vital games, 2 against a fellow title contenders with a county cup quarter final against Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women in between an away trip Blofield United on the 26th of Feb. 

Youngs Park the venue for today’s game, hosted last season’s NWGFL finals day last season a community sports ground with the main pitch beside a newly built clubhouse and changing rooms surrounded by numerous grass pitches. The kitchen hatch open serving hot drinks. A decidedly dull and overcast day, grey clouds all around no sun at all no rain forecast very still all in all pretty miserable weather wise. 

Aylsham FC Women

 Aylsham FC  Women starting XI – Hannah Lock, Ellie Cleaver, Abbie Butcher, Jordan Arnoup (C), Charlotte Crane, Michaela Brown, Rhiannon Dack, Carly Allum, Georgina Bobbin, Hannah Claughton & Sophie-Jayne O’Connor. Subs – Chelsea Crowley & Flo Simpkin.

KLSC FC Women

  KLSC FC Women starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Chloe Birch-Bailey, Chloe Moulton, Viktoria Burkauskaite (C), Caitlin Jacob, Taeya Miles, Kesley Ramm, Chloe Edwards, Leeanne Smith & Josie Turner. Subs – Lucy Clarke & Millie Bareford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Both sides naming 2 on the bench it’s the hosts Aylsham to get the first half underway wearing orange coloured shirts with blue short and orange socks with KLSC lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to captain Jordan Arnoup in defence sprays the pass out to the right for Rhiannon Dack, defended by KLSC’s Caitlin Jacob the visitors straight on the counter, Chloe Edwards on the left shifting inside to beat her marker racing forwards tackled by Aylsham centre back, Charlotte Crane. 

 KLSC win possession on the centre of the park the ball put forwards into Josie Turner sends the pass out to the right for Trinity Tokaji cutting back inside top of the area rolls the ball inside for Turner who lets it run across her body preparing to line up a strike inside the D the shot charged down by Aylsham’s  Georgina Bobbin. 

  Aylsham attack through the middle, Carly Allum with Bobbin forwards into attacker Sophie-Jayne O’Conner held up top of the area, lays it back for Bobbin spinning in behind to receive the return pass right of goal struck on the angle racing wide of the near post. Turner is bundled over winning KLSC a free-kick central 35 yards out. Players up into the box with Turner over the ball, struck well towards goal skipping up in front of goalkeeper Hannah Lock knocks the ball down, doesn’t quite have possession as KLSC’s Leeanne Smith comes chasing in the pair colliding, the resulting free-kick favouring the goalkeeper. Lock down for a moment assessed but okay to continue. 

  A good sized pitch both sides looking to get the ball out to their wide players, Allum sliding in to tackle Tokaji as she prepares to break on the right for KLSC. No one settling on the ball both sides looking to get it forwards with haste both defences get players out to intercept the ball. Hannah Claughton bursting forwards wide left for Aylsham tackled by KLSC captain, Viktoria Burkauskaite halting Claughton’s momentum, she stays on her feet to dart inside take the ball on feeding a good ball across the six yard box, no one gambling however. Allum with a powerful drive from midfield going left with Claughton is tackled by Burkauskaite.

Hannah Claughton on the attack for Aylsham

   Edwards on the left for KLSC doing well on the ball to get in behind wraps her foot around the ball her cross deflected square into the path of her teammate Kesley Ramm 30 yards out her snap shot wide of the right post. Turner pressuring the defence outside the box to the right of the goal inside lifts a looping ball into the near post bouncing awkwardly in front of Lock, the defensive clearance across the six yard box, Turner alive after it struck wide on the half volley. 

KLSC’s Chloe Edwards

  Both 11’s are getting joy down the left side of the pitch, Edwards for KLSC and Claughton for Aylsham, a powerful run forwards cuts back inside 20 yards out to lay the ball into O’Connor right of the  strikes for the top corner, KLSC goalkeeper, Bryony Russell-Smith scrambling across her goal can see the ball safely wide of the right post. Allum down having taken a knock for Aylsham needing treatment a lengthy pause follows before she is up and brought over to the side-lines for further assessment.

 Allum waved back on as play resumes a melee in the middle as players close down the ball it pops free to the left into Claughton’s path for the attacker to drive forwards towards the area wrapping her left foot around the ball looking to shoot across the keeper the racing wide of the far post. Allum showing a great piece of skill bringing a high ball down under control releasing it to Claughton the left, Chloe Moulton stretching to make the challenge regain possession for KLSC. Taeya Miles back to help the defence making several good interceptions to prevent the ball finding O’Connor central.

KLSC’s Taeya Miles

  Tokaji frustrated as her run is halted by the offside flag as Edwards attempts to put her through on goal with a diagonal pass. Bobbin sending the pass out to the left for Claughton does well to keep it in play in the corner getting inside to left a cross into the six yard box, Allum rising in front of goal with a glancing header can’t get enough on the ball to deflect it towards goal. 

Aylsham’s Abbie Butcher

  Ramm on the ball for KLSC central plays the ball out to Edwards breaking forwards on the left cutting inside top corner of the area to shoot a low drive Lock down at her post safely behind it. Aylsham with numbers through the middle Michaela Brown on for Bobbin, Claughton up with her the pass threaded into the box for O’Connor right of goal her shot deflected behind for a corner kick. The corner taken from the right, (once Claughton has retrieved the ball from the allotments behind the goal) and inswinging delivery players attacking the near post the ball into the side netting.

Kesley Ramm and Carly Allum

  Burkauskaite tracking back with her defence cutting out a cross from Dack on the right heading the ball away for KLSC. The game could do with someone calming their side down both are playing at a break neck pace hence players can’t get into position to receive the ball seeing possession ebb and flow with neither side gaining the upper hand. Russell-Smith out to the top of her area sliding in bravely to stop Dack running onto the ball. KLSC winning a freekick out wide left on half way Miles with a good kick on her sending the ball into the area headed clear drops straight to Turner 25 yards out who needs no invitation to shoot her effort angled straight at the keeper. 

KLSC goalkeeper, Bryony Russell-Smith

  Edwards getting some unwelcome abuse from the ‘supporters’ on the far side of the pitch hardly needed leading to some frustration. Allum on the move through the middle with the ball for Aylsham both O’Connor and Claughton getting in behind as the ball is put on but Russell-Smith does well out early to come clear the ball high up the pitch. KLSC are dropping back as a defensive unit all the way to their six yard box at times going as Claughton attacks left her cross won and cleared by Miles. 

KLSC defender, Chloe Moulton

  Allum fouled by Miles out wide left, Arnoup forwards to take the set-piece struck well a teasing delivery across the six yard box would have been a nightmare for KLSC to try and defend however no one gets near it for Aylsham out for a goalkick. KLSC make a substitution bring Smith off for Millie Bareford. Aylsham with a free-kick wide right this time Arnoup’s powerful delivery catching Bobbin in the face, shaken it on her feet but replaced soon after with Chelsea Crowley coming on O’Connor dropping into a deeper role.

  Tempers flare up on the far side of the pitch a brief scuffle between Edwards and Cleaver. referee Steven Ciriboto, quick to intervene calm everyone down a talking too and yellow card shown to both. The first half coming to a close, Claughton continuing to get joy down the left for Aylsham racing to the by-line getting inside Moulton, Miles back to support her getting in the blocking tackle to deny the cross the ball coming off Claughton for the goal kick. 

  GOAL! Aylsham on the attack in stoppage time at the end of the first half Allum with the ball strong into the left channel heading into the box, Burkauskaite closing her down lunging in clipping the midfielder on the calf, the whistle could have blown then for a penalty, Allum staying on her feet shifting inside six yards out is then bundled over by the KLSC captain the penalty is given. Arnoup forwards to place the ball on the spot a powerful hit rising to the right to bulge the back of the net 1-0. Arnoup with her 10th goal of the season.

Carly Allum breaking forwards in the build up to the penalty

Jordan Arnoup scoring from the penalty spot to put Aylsham into the lead

  Aylsham lively at the end of the first half numbers up in the final 3rd a KLSC handball spotted the free-kick awarded central 30 yards out, Arnoup over the ball again strikes for goal past the wall wide of the left post.

Half-time Aylsham FC Women 1-0 KLSC FC Women

  Aylsham’s players race into the changing rooms having secured a narrow 1 goal lead late in the first half thanks to a strong run into the box from Carly Allum that lead to captain Jordan Arnoup scoring the penalty. Overall the sides fairly evenly matched, KLSC defending the deeper inviting more pressure with Aylsham getting into some useful attacking positions both sides creating chances as of yet none clear cut. Set up beautifully for the 2nd half. KLSC staying out on the pitch ready to get the 2nd half underway. 

KLSC attacker, Josie Turner

 The ball played into Turner looks to turn on the ball drive forwards, Brown closing her down. Cleaver onto the ball for Aylsham the full back looking to get forwards challenged by KLSC’s Miles. Both teams into each other in the early exchanges a little niggly, Ramm seeing the ball into her feet out on the right for KLSC 25 yards out with a clever turn on the ball to shake off her marker get inside to pick out Turner central who in turn thread a diagonal ball out to Edwards breaking down the line on the left wing her cross lifted into the box headed clear by Crane. 

Kesley Ramm on the ball for KLSC

 Allum continuing to get forwards well from midfield support from Claughton wide left going forwards Burkauskaite closing her down to tackle put the ball out for a throw in. Bareford playing the ball on in midfield with Crane and Turner in a race for the ball, the KLSC attacker getting their first under pressure from Crane can only send her low shot in straight for Lock to gather cleanly. 

  KLSC pushing hard from a reply at the start of the 2nd half Ramm out right bursting clear to strike the ball, deflected off Butcher to go behind for a corner. Swung in to the near post from the right, Crane doing the defending at the near post. Aylsham finding space with KLSC committing a extra player forwards Allum moving the ball wide for Dack, tackled by Birch-Bailey. Issue’s with the crowd continue leading the referee stopping play and speaking to the offenders. Dack getting into an advancing position on the right lifting a cross through the six yard box a swing and a miss from Crowley central runs on for Claughton to control left side and strike in on the angle, Russell-Smith gathering low at her near post.

  The pattern of the game beginning to shift Aylsham getting more of the ball KLSC getting frustrated with some of the fouls being given against them. Claughton charging the ball down on the left able to run in behind take it on to unleash a low shot in on the angle, Russell-Smith getting down sharply to make a good save turning the ball wide across her goal for a corner. Aylsham making a change before the corner bringing off ack, Flo Simpkins coming on. 

Aylsham’s Carly Allum

 The corner coming in cleared back out right edge of the box the attempted cross blocked deflected behind, judged to be a handball and Aylsham are awarded a 2nd penalty! A harsh one but given Arnoup up to take it placing the ball on the spot opts for power again going to the left this time Russell-Smith going the right way the ball struck hard smashing down off the woodwork, the follow up lifted over the bar. Arnoup not happy.

  Heavy contact from a 50/50 ball between Cleaver and Miles it’s the Aylsham defender who comes off worse needing a moment to recover but is up okay to play on.

  GOAL! A couple of minutes after seeing a penalty missed Aylsham are awarded a free-kick out wide on the left 25 yards out. Arnoup once again on set-piece duties. No mistake this time is a wonderfully struck ball lots of pace and dip on it as it sails over Russell-Smith to find the far corner of the net 2-0.

A brace for Aylsham captain, Jordan Arnoup

  21 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Aylsham double their lead. Equal amounts of joy and frustration for Arnoup as Aylsham feel they are getting the rough call on a few decisions too. Is a competitive match KLSC are getting into their opponents looking to disrupt their play a few tired legs out there play beginning to get stretched in places. Crowley pulling off the defence from a diagonal ball right corner of the area a lunging shot rising, is taken high by Russell-Smith across at her near post. 

 Cleaver lifting the ball up the line on the right for Aylsham’s Crowley to run onto heading for the by-line whips a great ball into the KLSC six  yard box just no one arriving to turn it home. Claughton is unceremoniously upended attacking on the left a free-kick awarded, Arnoup over it angles the ball long to the far post out for a goal kick. Bobbin returning to the game for Aylsham as the hosts win a free-kick wide on the right. Arnoup again aiming for a crowded far post area, Simpkin rising very close to getting the header.

Russell-Smith moving quickly out to the top of her area to slide in bravely at the feet of Claughton to save. Aylsham getting the better of the possession now coming forwards at will KLSC defending deep making it hard to get a counter going. Burkauskaite unhappy as she feels she’s fouled in the middle as Aylsham break away with the ball Crowley to the right breaking into the box firing her angled shot wide across goal. 

  Crowley making a nuisance of herself in front of the box forcing an error from the defence snapping onto the ball to break into the box right of goal her lobbed attempt drops wide. Bareford with a push on Bobbin Aylsham with the free-kick on half way played out wide to Claughton her squared cross intercepted by Burkauskaite. The game moving into the final 10 minutes, Aylsham winning a throw high on the right the ball cleared by Miles falling to Bobbin lays it into the path of Arnoup to hit from distance rattles wide of the left post.

 GOAL! Crowley has been threatening a score for Aylsham all through the first half and is played through on goal by a superb pass from Allum central to put her one on one with the keeper, keeps a cool head to slot the ball to her left and score her first goal for the club 3-0.

Chelsea Crowley with Aylsham’s 3rd goal

  Bobbin booked as she goes in hard on Birch-Bailey catching her from behind, the defender struggling needs to be helped off, with Clarke coming on. Edwards pushing on with the ball left side trying to get on with Ramm in support does well to win a corner kick. Driven in from the left to the top of the box for Bareford takes the ball into the area, Arnoup putting her foot in to clear the ball out of the ground into the wooded public footpath beyond. Allum’s work done late in the game she is taken off with Dack sent back on with barely a minute of regular time to play. Claughton done soon after replaced by Dack. 

  Dack with a try from distance easily held by Russell-Smith. KLSC stretched in the closing stages Aylsham getting the ball about the pitch, Bobbin on for Crowley, Jacobs preventing her spinning in behind. The final whistle blows and Aylsham extend their 100% record to 7 games climbing to 4th within a point of KLSC who suffer their first defeat in the league dropping a place as Mulbarton Belles Development move above them, Aylsham’s next opponents.

Full time Aylsham FC Women 3-0 KLSC FC Women

  Aylsham going on to dominate the 2nd half after an early push from KLSC to find a reply to falling behind late in the first half. Using the pitch well to stretch the game wear their opponents down. Coming though their first test against a fellow title contender well winning in the end by 3 goals. Alot of football still to be played and will fancy their chances of reaching the latter stages of the League Plate competition too. KLSC working hard in the first half looking a match for Aylsham eventually tiring in the 2nd half a big game in the county cup to come next weekend. Is incredibly tight at the top of Division Two the top 5 separated by 5 points will be a few twists and turns yet.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match once again is a tough decision in many regards. Several performances of note firstly for KLSC, Taeya Miles with some strong tackling getting back to help the defence, intercepting balls and getting it away from danger. Kesley Ramm working hard in the middle with some clever footwork to get room for a pass. Chloe Edwards despite having to put up with some unnecessary abuse a threat out on the left. Aylsham with an all round solid defensive game. Jordan Arnoup with the set piece goals to help the club on the way to another victory. Chelsea Crowley looked lively up top in attack creating chances. Is an extremely close call for today’s award Hannah Claughton carried a threat all game out on the left in attack with the ball at her feet showing a great work rate. Carly Allum is today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a powerful performance in the middle of the park getting hold of the ball and driving forwards with some excellent attacks winning the penalty and setting up Crowley for Aylsham’s 3rd goal.

  Great to be back at Youngs Park, see Aylsham for the first time good to catch up with a few familiar faces I haven’t seen in a while. An enjoyable game from NWGFL Division Two, my thanks to both clubs for their help today much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 5th February

ERWFL Premier Division

It is becoming an intense battle at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with just 4 points separating the top 6, all with ambitions to win the title an achieve promotion to the FAWNL. Today’s it’s a clash of the top two with leaders Luton Town Ladies away to Hertfordshire rivals Stevenage FC Women.

  Luton Town Ladies now back on top after setting the pace early on, the chasing pack gaining ground Stevenage FC Women briefly on top themselves just 2 points back in 2nd. Behind them all on 18 points newly promoted sides AFC Sudbury Women & Needham Market Women along with Haringey Borough Women and Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies.

  Stevenage FC Women looking to bounce back to the FAWNL at the 1st attempt suffering relegation last season ending a 6 year stay in the FAWNL, recoding a 6th placed finish along the way. Achieving promotion to the FAWNL though no easy task as today’s opponents Luton Town Ladies will testify. The ERWFL Premier Division featuring some strong sides very competitive with just the title winners going up. Stevenage though are well placed to mount a title challenge assembling a strong squad, briefly taking over the lead a fortnight a go a 1-0 loss in a controversial game at Haringey Borough Women last Sunday seeing them drop back to 2nd. Amy Makewell leading goal scorer with 11 goals from 10 appearances, Becky Shepard and Emily Schofield with 6 and 5 respectfully. Have played 3 games more than Luton so a positive result is vital to stop them pulling away.

  Luton Town Ladies themselves a long established side in the FAWNL their run in the 4th tier coming to an end 3 season’s ago. The Covid pandemic disruption no doubt hindering their attempts to get back to the FAWNL are no back in strength ready to make a solid promotion push. Got off to a flying start with a 100%, 8 game winning streak seeing them pull away from the chasing pack. Were dragged back into the mix by the sad withdrawal of Harlow Town Ladies due to the pitch issues at the Harlow Arena, those points 6 in total wiped off saw those behind right back in it. A draw with King’s Lynn Town Ladies their only points dropped so far returned to the top with a 3-0 home win against Royston Town Ladies last Sunday. Jess Mckay and Lil Sanders are both on 11 goals from 13 appearances each with Leyah Maddix netting 8 from 13 played. Nikki Baker stepping down as first team manager, Rob Burton taking on the role this season with Myles Maddix as head coach.

The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, situated by the Hertfordshire FA’s offices the artificial pitch and stadium seeing a number of improvements in recent seasons with an updated bar and cafe area behind the main stand serving hot and old drinks. The main stand covered offering plenty of seating with terraced stands behind one goal and the opposite side of the pitch, where I headed to today to have the low sun at my back, albeit putting me in the shade in what was otherwise a pleasant, mild and still day with no wind or rain forecast excellent playing conditions.

Stevenage FC Women

 Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Lucy Webster (C), Anna Re, Nicole Farmer, Vicky Neal, Holly Greenwood, Hannah Bodily, Erin Price, Jodie Bellinger, Kelsey Millen & Emily Schofield. Subs – Katie White, Shianne Swarres, Becky Shephard, Amy Gooderham & Amy Makewell.

Luton Town Ladies

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Angelika Kopec, Maria Taylor, Hannah Major, Tanya Blacksley, Elly Wade, Kiera Palmiero, Jess McKay (C), Fi Constable, Andie Dickens, Lil Sanders & Leyah Maddix. Subs – Hannah Payne, Shanice Lewis, Shakeela Hussain, Adi Milton & Lilac Wilson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   Both sides naming 5 on the bench with plenty of attacking options to bring on, Luton to get the match underway wearing orange shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing red top coloured shirts fading to black about the middle, red shorts with white socks.

The ball played back to captain Jess McKay in the centre of midfield she clips a diagonal pass long out to the right as Andie Dickens breaks up the line, Anna Re dealing with the threat at left back for Stevenage. Play paused with an injury on the far side of the pitch, Stevenage’s Emily Schofield having taken a knock before the dig outs the trainer called on, Schofield accessed and waved back on as play resumes. Lil Sanders showing good pace in attack linking up well with Dickens on the right in the early exchanges as Luton press the ball and get it moving quickly.

Stevenage captain Lucy Webster at right back has a decent throw on her as she looks to get Kelsey Millen away up the flank, McKay tracking back to lunge in with the challenge take the ball away from the attacker. From the resulting throw higher up the pitch Webster gets the return pass down the line and wraps her foot around the ball to send a dangerous cross into the six yard box, long Jodie Bellinger latches onto her inside the area but can’t smuggle her shot past goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec as she stoops to grab up the ball.

Stevenage’s Jodie Bellinger

A competitive midfield battle going on Luton moving in quickly to close Stevenage down on the ball, Erin Price however managing to evade a tackle stretching forwards to lift her pass long out to Millen breaking on the right wing in behind, Tanya Blacksley comes out from the centre to charge down her cross. Millen finding space on the right a good outlet for Stevenage as they continue to be harried on the ball in the centre of the park, bringing the ball inside links up with Price the midfielder unable to thread the ball behind an organised Luton back line.

Luton’s Tanya Blacksley

Two sides looking to get at each other no one afforded much time on the ball, neither wanting it looking to get the ball moving, Stevenage caught out with a high line as Kiera Palmiero sends the ball forwards for Sanders racing clear out wide left her ball driven into the box from the angle racing through the six yard box Leyah Maddix getting it under control left side turning back inside unleashing a low drive towards goal, a Stevenage defender blocking it with goalkeeper Tea Oldroyd down having it covered behind.

Stevenage’s Hannah Bodily with Luton’s Leyah Maddix

Luton with good pace up top Maddix getting onto the ball central carrying it forwards, sending it through for Sanders clear of the defence, Oldroyd aware of the threat quickly out of her area to kick the ball clear, Fi Constable closing down well to take on possession left side bringing it down for the shot, swerving in towards goal, the curl may well have seen it race narrowly wide of the top corner, however Oldroyd has gotten back into position and leaping up snatches the ball down safely. Luton getting on top in midfield putting the Stevenage defence under pressure with Constable wriggling free on the left wing driving into the corner her cross into the box headed away by Vicky Neal, coming back to Constable, winning a corner kick. Players up from the back the far post attack as the inswinging delivery comes in however a push is spotted by the referee Stevenage have the free kick.

Luton’s Fi Constable

McKay is dominating the midfield for Luton in the opening 15 minutes with the ball at her feet powers her way forwards evading two tackles before releasing a long pass out to the right, a little too much on it for Maddix to chase down. Millen out on the right remains the best outlet for Stevenage to counter as Price picks her out with the past in behind whips a great ball into the box bouncing through the six yard box to the far post Schofield after it held off by a defender the attacker can’t get enough on the ball to send it past the keeper as Kopec comes to claim.

Luton captain, Jess McKay

Neal with a timely interception at the back cutting out the attempted through ball for Sanders as she attempts to spin in behind. A strong pressing game from Luton getting into Stevenage forcing errors inviting mistakes while getting the ball moving quickly when they have possession. Sanders is down for Luton on halfway looks to have picked up a knock, needs to come off the visitors making a change sending on Shanice Lewis to join Maddix in attack. The game being played at a high tempo while having a cagey edge to it.

Stevenage’s Vicky Neal

Luton with a free-kick inside the Stevenage half right of the centre circle players coming forwards from the back as the ball is flighted in to the near post attacked Elly Wade very nearly connecting with the header, wouldn’t have counted however as the offside flag is up against her. Luton showing good energy frustrating Stevenage who want to press themselves but have the middle so congested it’s had to pick a pass. Hannah Major doing well at the back for Luton on the right as Stevenage look to get forwards with Schofield and Bellinger combining.

Emily Schofield

Constable attacking on the left for Luton cutting back inside across the top of the box 20 yards out fires it across to the right side, Re turning to charge down Dickens as she lines up a shot. Kopel’s turn to come rushing out of her area to clear as Re clearing the ball from the back almost sends Bellinger through to attack the area. Stevenage need someone to get thing’s going give the hosts some thrust and that person is the captain herself as brings the ball under control halfway on the right she shifts infield going to a powerful run forcing her way all the way into the box left of the D, before being chopped down by Major. Penalty!

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

Major is shown a yellow card. Bellinger the player placing the ball on the spot to take the set piece for Stevenage. Her strike send it low to close to the keeper, Kopec going the right way down to her left to get her body behind the ball and save turning it away to the left, scrambling across goal between the keeper and her defence prevent any follow up getting through the ball cleared long.

Angelika Kopec saving the penalty

Lewis coming forwards with the ball for Luton heading central has Sanders up in support, the move breaking down as she fouls Neal off the ball. Dickens a threat on the right for Luton going on before sending a cross from the touchline deep into the box, Webster heading it clear for Stevenage at the far post. Half a hour played and Stevenage make their first change in midfield bringing off Greenwood and sending on Shianne Swarres. Straight into the action in to win the ball on the left linking up with Bellinger the ball crossed into the Luton area cleared by Maria Taylor. Stevenage press the ball in the final third coming to Swarres 20 yards out clips a high ball up into the box has Kopec back pedalling back on her line the ball drops onto the crossbar and over.

 Webster getting forwards on the right tracking inside sees a deflected shot claimed by the keeper. From Oldroyd’s goal kick Swarres on halfway heads the ball on for Millen her touch up top taking her away to the right away from her marker moving into the right channel opts for the early shot 20 yards out rising but never troubling the keeper. Swarres’ introduction having an immediate impact. Stevenage getting after the ball better taking the game to their opponents. Swarres winning control of the ball on halfway threading a pass into Schofield left channel knocking in on heads for the box has her heels clipped right on the edge by Major, risky when already on a yellow. Stevenage have a set-piece in a dangerous position left corner outside the box players forwards as Swarres stands over it.  Strikes it well angling in towards goal past Kopec smashes down off the cross bar then scrambled clear by the Luton defence. Stevenage ending the first half strong Swarres from another set-piece from distance to the right smashing it low past the far post.

Stevenage (& Women’s Football East sponsored player) Shianne Swarres

  Sanders ready to return to the field for Luton coming back on for Lewis. Wade defending well top of the area on Schofield as the Stevenage attacker looks to bring the ball on from the left. Maddix pulled down on the right Luton with the free kick 30 yards out the strong ball in no one can reach it as it whistles in past the far post. Maddix bringing the ball on well through the middle for Luton lifting it out to the right wing for Dickens her cross dipped in near post held well by Oldroyd getting down to catch. 

 Kopec out smartly to the left corner of her area to get hold of the ball as Millen looks to break as a good diagonal pass is released from Price in the middle. The first half draws to a close with the goals still intact… just!

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-0 Luton Town Ladies

  Goalless at the break, Stevenage with the better chances striking the woodwork twice and seeing a penalty saved. That said for much of the first half Luton were the better side starting the game well closing the ball done, competitive in the middle showing good energy though out. Frustrating Stevenage moving the ball about looking to carve out an opening. The middle of the park often congested, Webster looking to get her side going with a thrusting run that led to the penalty ultimately saved by Kopec. A change on the half hour seeing the introduction of Swarres and Stevenage getting hold of the ball in the middle and applying some pressure of their own ending the first period strong while Luton look a threat on the counter with pace up top. Well poised for the 2nd half.

  Both sides unchanged at the start of the 2nd half, Luton out early ready to go as Stevenage get the 2nd half underway. The ball sent on the diagonal out to the right, dealt with comfortably by Taylor for Luton. Webster getting forwards well on the left for Stevenage at start of the 2nd half tracking inside picking out Swarres central 30 yards out she sends it on for Millen attacking right wing her cross whipped into the box cleared by Blacksley. Stevenage press the ball in the final third successfully appealing for a hand ball and getting the free-kick in a threatening position 25 yards out to the right of the D. Players forwards as Farmer stands over it, catches it well floating it in towards goal loops down onto the cross bar the woodwork coming to Luton’s rescue again.

Nicole Farmer

   The free-kick count beginning to add up Stevenage with another from deep flicked on outside the box cut out well by Blacksley at the back for Luton. Re with an ambitious attempt from half way that sails over. Luton have the ball in the middle Maddix surging on has Constable to the left sends the ball on in turn threaded into the box for Sanders pulling off her marker left of goal Oldroyd rushing out to close her down goes to ground at her feet the striker taking the ball around her and shooting, the ball cleared off the line by Neal for Stevenage! 

Luton’s Lil Sanders

  GOAL! Looking threatening at the start of the 2nd half Luton expose Stevenage on the right to open the scoring. The midfield pass finding Dickens bursting away on the right wing heading for the by-line before sending a superb cross in along the face of goal to be met by Maddix at the far post to turn back across the keeper and in 0-1.

Leyah Maddix with the goal for Luton

  Luton make an immediate change after scoring breaking on Lilac Wilson for Major with Palmiero going to right back. Almost straight away an opportunity to extend the lead and McKay’s pin point pass from midfield finds Sanders pulling off into the channel right of goal into the box, setting up a 1 v 1 versus the keeper, Oldroyd back in her six yard box poised, as Sanders goes to strike it across her into the bottom corner, Oldroyd down smartly low getting a touch to deflect it wide beyond her far post for a corner kick. Oldroyd coming to claim as it is flashing in near side.

   Wade in hard on Bellinger catching her on the toes a painful one a free-kick out wide Webster to launch it into the box headed clear by the Luton defence. Dickens with the neat flick on as the ball is fed into her knocked on for Sanders the bounce however favouring Re allowing the full back to nick it away with her boot outside the D. Dickens with a 25 yard strike that swerves wide of the right post. Stevenage make a double change in the 57th minute bringing off Bellinger and Schofield with Becky Shephard and Amy Gooderham joining the attack. 

Luton’s Andie Dickens

  Webster strong going forwards on for Price the midfielder making ground evading two tackles before laying the ball off for Gooderham out wide left the substitute winning a throw then a corner. On the left a high looping ball dropping into a crowded six yard box, an infringement spotted Luton have possession. McKay is hauled down as she bursts forwards with the ball a free-kick top of the circle players up from the back the ball dropped into the box, Wade attacking it getting a glancing header sending it wide of the left post.

   Another shirt pull spotted, this time on Webster some 30 yards out players up into the box spots Gooderham totally unmarked free left sends her the pass shifting inside Gooderham attempted cross/shot flashes behind the goal. Luton with another change bringing off Dickens for Adi Milton. Is a competitive tussle between two committed sides. Millen appeared to have brought down Sanders, however it’s the Luton player that recieves the booking. The free kick right of the circle played early long to the far post with Gooderham closing in the ball too close to the keeper however Kopec claiming it. 

Luton goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec

   Luton attack on the right Sanders with McKay in support the ball taken to the by-line the cross lifted in taken by Oldroyd. Luton defending their box as Stevenage press, Milton unlucky to have a handball adjudged against her another set-piece for Stevenage in a threatening position 20 out left of the D. Before it’s taken Luton making a change bringing off Maddix with Lewis going back on. 

  GOAL! Webster over the set-piece a two player wall giving her a good sight on goal, strikes it high looping up towards the far post has Kopec worried the keeper throwing herself across her goal can’t reach it as it drops under the cross bar and goes in off the upright for the equaliser 1-1.

  20 minutes left to play Stevenage getting back on level terms the woodwork on their side at last as Webster sends the free-kick home. Katie White introduced for Stevenage out on the right replacing Millen. Swarres holds of Milton as the Luton player attempts to get forwards her attempted shot from 30 plus yards out falling wide. A robust challenge on Re sees another decision going against Luton whose frustration is beginning to show. McKay with a fantastic turn in the middle to release the ball forwards Sanders looking to deceive Neal drawing her one way then turning inside, Neal experienced however getting her left heel up to stop the ball in it’s tracks kill off the attack. 

Adi Milton

  Swarres not afraid to have a go from distance with a vicious strike fired over from 25 yards out. Luton making a change bringing off Taylor for  ex-Stevenage player Shakeela Hussain. Bodily with a rare surge forwards on the ball  threatening as she links up with Price who finds Swarres to the right back inside Bodily is fouled outside the box by Wade. Webster over the set-piece a little further out than her goal, sweeps the ball in to be attacked far post Price the closest to it but no contact out for a goal kick. 

Hannah Bodily

  Webster with good defensive work having already gone to ground trying to deal with the initial threat posed by Sanders right of the D, sweeps the ball away before the attacker can reclaim it. Luton get a free-kick inside the Stevenage half Wade up from the back getting onto the end of it inside the box heading over. Luton bring Dickens back on for Luton replacing Sanders with 10 minutes left on the clock. Both sides still after one another the energy levels haven’t dropped the fouls adding up Stevenage using the width more with Gooderham on the left and White on the right. Bodily the latest player substituted with striker Amy Makewell coming on.

Luton’s Elly Wade

  White fouled out wide on the right Stevenage with another free-kick look a threat from a dead ball situation. Swarres to deliver the ball knocked down across the six yard box skips up to White at the near post lifts her hurried shot over the bar. Stevenage applying all the pressure now late in the game attacking on the right Makewell taking the ball off White on the right shifting inside to angle a cross into Gooderham inside the box at the far post, stooping to head the ball doesn’t get a firm enough touch to take it past Kopec the keeper claiming solidly. 

Shanice Lewis

  Lewis carrying the ball on for Luton left side sending a cross in towards the top of the area cut out by Neal. Stevenage are straight on the counter attack, Prices pass cut out by Wade at the back for Luton. Dickens with the ball on the right combining well with Hussain the cross into the box easy for the keeper. Gooderham driving on with the ball on the left Wade coming back to challenge on the by-line Gooderham winning a corner off the defender. Lifted in near post Kopec up well to knock it down and clear. The game moving into stoppage time Price with a diagonal ball out to the left looking for Shephard a corner won.

Erin Price with Jess McKay

  GOAL! One last chance for Stevenage to send players forwards into the box, one of those Neal hasn’t come forwards for a corner all 2nd half but then they have all been from the left this one is on the right. Shephard with a superb kick to angle the ball in across the face of goal with pace, players racing into meet it one of those Neal nails the header to bury the ball into the back of the net to win the game for Stevenage and races over to Shephard in celebration 2-1. 

Vicky Neal (6) scoring the winning goal

Little time left on the clock for Luton to get a goal back a sucker punch right at the end of the game, Stevenage scoring from another set-piece. The clock ticking down game management now from Stevenage win a free-kick run the ball into the corner.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 2-1 Luton Town Ladies

 The final whistle blows and Stevenage come back from a goal down to win it at the death to claim the 3 points and return to the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Strong and a threat from set-pieces all game the tally adding up as the game progressed. Luton starting the game the better winning the ball well and keeping Stevenage quiet, the game changing with a thrusting run from Stevenage’s captain and the resulting penalty, saved but it gave Stevenage the kick they needed then Swarres’ introduction brought a more competitive edge to the midfield. Goalless at the break Luton were to make a fast start to the 2nd half scoring early and with 2 good chances to add goals. Webster was to strike home the equaliser with 20 minutes left Stevenage coming back strong taking the game to Luton, almost held on but the set-pieces kept being given away with the winner coming from a corner at the death. A thrilling game at the top of the ERWFL.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a great game a good contest between two committed sides and several performances of note to mention. Firstly for Luton. Elly Wade was strong at the back with a number of important tackles and looked a danger from a set-piece. In the middle captain Jess McKay was strong, ran the show in the early stages with good tacking movement and passing. Andie Dickens was also excellent out on the right a threat going forwards creating opportunities in the final 3rd. For Stevenage, Vicky Neal had a strong game at the back reading the game well especially when her side was under pressure, popping up to score the winning goal. Shianne Swarres’ introduction changed the game for Stevenage making them more competitive in the middle and adding and edge to their attack. The award winner however was chosen before the final whistle and an in agreement with the match day award, goes to Stevenage captain Lucy Webster. Had a fantastic game at the back. When the game needed something extra she provided it giving her side the lift they needed got forwards well and scored the equalising goal.

  Another excellent contest from the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Expect little else these days is a great league to watch and highly underrated. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups today much appreciated onto the next one.

by Darren Gilham