Monthly Archives: January 2025

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women Development v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 26th January

ERWFL Division One North

A trip down to Hertfordshire this Sunday to catch some action from ERWFL Division One North, with Stevenage FC Women Development hosting 2nd placed Newmarket Town Women.

Harpenden Town Women looking strong favourites to clinch the title at the 2nd attempt in ERWFL Division One North, but there are a trio of sides looking to push them all the way battling for the places below, Newmarket Town Women amongst them currently 2nd in the table behind, AFC Dunstable Women and Histon Ladies. As competitive at the other end with the pressure on with 3 sides facing relegation, Stevenage FC Women Development edging their way out of the bottom 3 still have alot of work to do to avoid drop.

The hosts looking to build on recent results a 1-0 win at home in the league to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies seeing them move out of the bottom three. Followed that up with victory in the quarter finals of the Herts Women’s Trophy last weekend, having won the competition last season in it’s inaugural year. Joining the ERWFL last season as the league expanding to it’s full compliment of sides, had a tough league campaign, but to go along with their county cup success, also reached the final of the ERWFL League Plate. Backing up the 1st team plying in the Premier League above have used alot of players this season 39 to date as they struggled to find a winning formula an opening day win followed by a series of losses a couple of wins and draws have seen Stevenage push hard to get themselves out of trouble at the wrong end of the table. Eva Delaney top scorer with 5 goals from 7 matches, has made 8 appearances too for the 1st team. Stephanie Fausse scoring 4 from her 11 appearances.

Last saw Newmarket Town Women in action back in October, at Thetford Town Ladies came into the game off the back of a good win at home against AFC Dunstable Women having had a frustrating start to the season. Going on to beat Thetford 2-0 was the 2nd win in a run of 7 straight league wins that helped propel Newmarket up to 2nd in the table. That 7 run winning streak ended ironically by Dunstable in another frustrating result last weekend. Traditionally a club that has built it’s foundations on a strong youth policy bringing players up through the age group from 8 onwards. Have an U18’s and Development side backing up the 1st team, two Development players making their senior debuts today in fact, Hannah Marsh and Ailie Rennie. Millie Docking currently Newmarket’s top scorer with 14 goals so far from 15 games, hot on her heels Katie Spiers netting 12 times from 14 matches.

Once again the weather was going to play a big part in the weekend, Storm Eowyn blowing through in midweek, another band of wet and windy weather forecast for Sunday, not likely to hit to the afternoon so another bout of mass postponements unlikely, but knowing it was going to be a wet one really didn’t fancy standing out in the elements to take my notes, the camera’s taken a bit of a battering of late too so off the The County Ground in Letchworth home of Hertfordshire FA, and Stevenage’s woman’s sides. The main stand covered wit seating over the café area serving hot food and drink. The wind blowing the rain into the stand however a better option lay on the other side of the artificial playing surface a covered terraced stand protecting spectators from the elements and it was most definitely needed the rain falling as the sides warmed up, a strong breeze blowing across the pitch too was going to be miserable to play in.

Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Shannon Alderman, Katie Boyle, Jessica Preston, Neave Wilson (C), Abigail Hunt, Isobel Mayfield, Ellie Merkis, Ebba Taylor-Pugh, Kelsey Millen, Kristal Clarke & Sophie Hendy. Subs – Holly Southam, Remi Martin, Kiera Mynott, Sarah Payne & Lilly Kelly.

Stevenage FC Women Development

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Hannah Marsh, Ellie Sturgess, Ailie Rennie, Katie Walker (C), Holly Corley, Abi Gibson, Abbi Griffin, Amelia Thompson & Millie Docking. Subs – Abbie Corbyn, Eden Kirby-Cook & Fliss Payne.

Newmarket Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Stevenage welcome back Sarah Payne, on the bench today having made her long awaited return to play again on the 12 of January having suffered an ACL injury that has since her out for 491 days. Good to see her back. Newmarket giving senior debuts to Hannah March and Ailie Rennie both lining up in defence.

Captain’s Neave Wilson and Katie Walker with today’s referee, Rhys Stewart

It’s Stevenage to kick-off the 1st half with the rain falling steadily wearing white shirts with red trim, red shorts and white socks with Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball played back into the defence, Newmarket rush forwards to close the ball down forcing a rushed pass long up to the right, Kelsey Millen though able to race on through to burst down the right wing cutting a cross back in towards the top of the area, Holly Dryland stretching out a leg to intercept and clear at the back for Newmarket.

Both sides snapping into heir challenges the ball out of play for a series of throws with neither making headway through the middle. The visitors winning a free-kick out wide on the right inside the Stevenage half, bring players forwards from the back as the ball is curled into the top of the area, missed by the Stevenage defence runs through to Dryland pulling clear into the box left of goal, drags her shot wide of the left post, play brought back however as she had run offside.

Newmarket’s Ellie Sturgess bringing the ball out of defence looking up to send a long ball into the right channel with Amelia Thompson looking to break in behind. Stevenage goalkeeper, alert to the threat out quickly to the top of her area to grab hold of the ball. The hosts looking a little unsettled in the early exchanges taking a few chances in possession at the back, Alderman looking to play a short pass out of her six yard box to captain Neave Wilson positioned to the left corner of her area, attacker, Millie Docking stealing in with a raised foot to intercept the pass, deflects the ball straight back towards goal but thankfully for Alderman straight into her gloves.

The rain falling heavily, Newmarket looking to be positive get players on through the middle, Abbi Griffin and Abi Gibson pulling into the flanks right and left. Ebba Taylor-Pugh latching onto the ball in the middle of the park for Stevenage driving on, is taken down late after she releases the ball forwards for Sophie Hendy in attack, play brought back for the free-kick top of the centre circle. Taylor-Pugh to take herself floats a ball into the box dropping far post, Dominika Szary across her goal to cover for Newmarket can see it safely out of play.

Ailie Rennie tackling for Newmarket

Playing conditions tough the wind swirling with the rain, free-kicks being given away. Newmarket looking to use the flanks get the ball moving across the pitch with purpose. Holly Corley sliding a pass into Griffin on the right, clips a cross into the top of the area, Abigail Hunt turning it away to the left for the hosts. Kristal Clarke seeing the ball into her feet for Stevenage 30 yards out to the left makes a strong run on the ball inside towards the Newmarket box, running into traffic, the Newmarket defence going to close her down, does well to send the ball on to the right for Millen to take on steal into the area making for the by-line sends a cross into the near post, Dryland running back towards her own goal cutting it out.

Newmarket’s Holly Dryland

Winning the ball back in midfield Newmarket play the ball on for Corley moving out to the left cuts back inside 30 plus yards out to play the ball into Griffin unmarked, 25 yards out to the right of the Stevenage area, puts her foot though the ball, driving it in towards goal flying over the keepers head, smashes down into the area off the bar! Hunt reacting a split second before Docking to scramble the ball clear as she goes in to attack the follow up.

Stevenage defender, Abigail Hunt

Millen providing a useful outlet for Stevenage on the right flank the ball coming to her from the middle she brings it under control making a surge towards the Newmarket box, Sturgess closing her down to put in the tackle to win the ball back. Cleared up to Docking wide on the left lays it inside for Thompson 25 yards out who in turn sends it down the line for Gibson pushing into the corner, held up by Stevenage’s Katie Boyle plays the ball instead up the line to Dryland who clips it into the top of the area, Wilson getting it clear as Thompson looks to bring it down.

Newmarket regain possession quickly get the ball out to Griffin on the right the ball driven low in towards goal, Alderman reacting quickly getting something on the ball to deflect it away across her six yard box out for a corner kick. Curled in across goal, dropping far post the ball in turned towards goal, Alderman snatching hold of it from close range.

Newmarket getting players on, Stevenage reacting well to get the ball out of there half look to exploit the gaps at back, Taylor-Pugh bringing the ball inside off the left wing lifting a ball over the top, Hendy looking to attack it, Szary out of her area rapidly to put her foot through the ball to clear. Szary needing to come along way out of her area as Stevenage catch Newmarket on the break Taylor-Pugh with the pass to send Clarke clear on the left, the keeper reaching it first to put out for a throw. Stevenage slow to react can’t capitalise with Szary out of position.

Ebba Taylor-Pugh bringing the ball on for Stevenage

The weather awful driving rain, both sides undeterred nevertheless a lively contest, Stevenage winning a free-kick wide on the left, Taylor-Pugh to send into the box, Szary with the claim at her near post. Katie Walker captaining Newmarket playing the ball out to Docking pulling to the right 25 yards out sends the ball back into the Stevenage D, looking for Thompson, Hunt getting her boot in the way to deflect the ball out for a throw on the left.

Docking sees the ball down off her feet, turning back to goal to attack from the right, Wilson lunging in with the tackle to take the ball from the attacker before she can burst into the box. Newmarket playing some neat short passes in their build up in front of the Stevenage area, Corley with Docking and Thompson the ball fed through in behind for Gibson breaking into the box from the left, Alderman though able to snatch hold of it before the midfielder can strike.

Midway through the first half an intriguing contest, the weather playing it’s part, Gibson bringing the ball down off of a throw on the left 25 yards out turning to lay the ball on for Docking top of the D, head down intends to drive for the area, up against Wilson, Stevenage’s captain, tackling well to halt her advance.

Stevenage’s captain, Neave Wilson

Newmarket pressing well getting the ball on into Gibson left plays it into the box for Docking stealing into the box left of goal, six yards out closing in on the near post turns her shot goal wards, Alderman making a brilliant save with her legs deflecting the ball away from danger. The chances mounting up for Newmarket.

Stevenage goalkeeper, Shannon Alderman

Stevenage’s Clarke strong in possession looking to drive her side forwards, Taylor-Pugh up with her though the middle on for Hendy, Sturgess closing her down. Stevenage making a change as they bring off Clarke, send on Lilly Kelly to join the attack. Dryland pushing on with the ball down Newmarket’s left sending a diagonal ball in towards the top of the D, Ellie Merkis back to head it clear for Stevenage. The visitors quick to regain possession however, risk over committing in attack leaving themselves exposed at the back, Wilson getting the ball out of defence into Isobel Mayfield she sends a good ball into the right channel for Millen to attack, Szary again out of her area dealing with the threat.

Newmarket attacker, Millie Docking

Sturgess high inside her half with the ball plays it over the top for Docking to race through to attack top of the box, Alderman rushing out to close her down making the blocking save with her legs. The ball loose, Thompson looking to race in on the follow up, Alderman does well adjusting on the ground diving to snatch hold of the ball.

Newmarket defender, Ellis Sturgess

The rain has slowed for now but the swirling wind remains, Newmarket win the ball back in the middle, Corley playing the ball to Griffin right, lifted into Docking back to goal right of the D, 25 yards out turns well to strike the ball her half volley rising on target, Alderman with another excellent save throwing an arm up to turn the ball over her crossbar for a corner kick. The resulting corner curled in onto the roof of the net.

Holly Corley

Millen looks to go it alone as she gets hold of the ball on Stevenage’s right cutting inside, Sturgess standing up against her the centre back winning her tackle. Kelly stealing onto the ball for Stevenage inside the Newmarket half makes a powerful run towards the opposition box before laying it o her right for Taylor-Pugh to take on, Dryland moving in to slow her down forcing her wider, the midfielder still managing to get a strike away 20 yards out but over the bar.

Kelly coming on giving Stevenage a little more thrust going forwards looking to get hold of the ball and power her way into the final 3rd, looks to release Hendy to her left, Rennie cutting the pass out for Newmarket outside her box. Corley looks to have picked up a knock for Newmarket comes off in midfield to be replaced by Fliss Payne.

Into the closing moments of the first half Thompson with the ball on the left for Newmarket lays it on for Gibson running into the corner, held up check back inside to whip a cross into the top of the area, Griffin looking to attack it right of the D, forcing another save from Alderman.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-0 Newmarket Town Women

Goalless at the break, frustrating from Newmarket’s point of view, have created some good opportunities, struck the woodwork, and forced some excellent saves from Stevenage’s keeper, Shannon Alderman. Those saves though keeping her side firmly in the game, the hosts looking unsettled at the start slowly coming into their own the game opening up have looked a threat on the break. Awful conditions to play in with their showing no signs of things letting up.

No changes for Newmarket as they emerge from the changing rooms, Stevenage making a switch with Remi Martin on at the back for Preston. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway played out to the right with Martin seeing the ball out for a throw in. Stevenage looking to make a positive start to the 2nd half, Mayfield playing the ball on for Kelly left side turns to attack driving on comes infield before being stopped by Sturgess.

Hannah Marsh tackling Stevenage’s Lilly Kelly

Stevenage aiming to press the ball higher winning a free-kick in a dangerous position out wide on their right inside the Newmarket half, the delivery fired in low into the near post cleared by Newmarket’s Thompson. The ball deflected back out to the right with Stevenage played up the line the cross flung into the near post area from deep, Szary up well to claim the ball.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

A different tempo to the 2nd half Stevenage looking to press higher, sees the game opening up, Payne in the middle for Newmarket sending the ball on through the middle looking for Docking in attack, Wilson winning the header for Stevenage. Alderman’s turn to call and claim the ball at her near post as Newmarket win a free-lick out wide on their left flank.

Stevenage clearing the ball up to Kelly inside the Newmarket half in the right, Marsh close in on her as the attacker looks to untangle the ball from her body turns into the full back, harsh on Marsh as she is penalised for handball giving Stevenage a free-kick, deep on the left, clipping into the top of the area, Payne winning the header for the visitors to clear.

Sarah Payne controlling the ball for Stevenage

Stevenage making another change early in the 2nd half, with Sarah Payne continuing her comeback from injury coming on to replace Handy, going into an attacking position alongside Kelly. Marsh bringing the ball on for Newmarket right side sending it through for Griffin to attack, plays a deep cross in diagonally to the far post, a little too much on it for Docking.

Walker carrying the ball on through the middle for Newmarket passes it on for Thompson in the left channel 25 yards out bursts inside her tough a little heavy, allows Wilson to get her foot on the ball to kick clear. A free flowing contest Docking with a great first touch back to goal 25 out top of the D, spins in behind as she lays it out to Griffin to the right of goal taking the ball into the area goes to shoot across the keeper, Alderman with another breath taking save throwing out her left hand to parry the ball into the ground, Docking racing in on the follow-up not quite able to catch t on the volley, as Hunt sends it clear for the hosts.

Marsh gets away down the right with the ball for Newmarket the full back firing a cross into the box, Docking tracking in to attack it making contact on the run sends her effort over the bar. Newmarket pressing Griffin playing the ball out to the left for Gibson to attack in the corner winning her side a corner kick, players up into the area as the ball is swung into the near post area defended the ball back out to the corner taker on the left returns a high ball back into the mix, Sarah Payne defending for Stevenage.

Abi Gibson with Isobel Mayfield

All action the ball never still, Walker sends Gibson away down the left for Newmarket, Boyle defending for Stevenage preventing the cross. Newmarket pushing up are taking a risk off being exposed at the back, Szary though is something of a sweeper at the back willing to rush out of her area deal with a threat if it comes her way. Clarke returning to the field for Stevenage coming on for Taylor-Pugh.

Clarke straight into the action strong on the ball pressing through the middle out to Millen right side wins a corner kick. Players up from the back the corner curled into the near post, Clarke up with Szary as she comes for the ball, miscues her punch the ball deflected on into her own net but it won’t count, disallowed, the referee blowing up for a foul on the keeper, much to the grievance of the Stevenage fans.

Stevenage see a goal disallowed

A little tension creeping into the game, Clarke adding some steal to the Stevenage attack plays a cute pass over the top that sees Millen beat the offside trap, Newmarket getting back at her to deflect the ball away for a throw on the right. Kelly digging the ball out from under her feet as it comes into her quickly turns to release Millen on the right for Stevenage a quick fire attack the cross flashed into the six yard box, Szary getting a glove on the ball to punch clear with Sarah Payne inches away.

Sarah Payne combining with Clarke as Stevenage build through the middle turning the ball out to the right for Clarke to attack breaking into the area, Sturgess getting across her run the shield the ball out of play for a goal kick. Open play Newmarket turning play around rapidly as Fliss Payne lifts a good ball forwards for Griffin cutting in from the left channel, Alderman rushing out, Griffin knocks the ball wide of her into the box racing after it at the near post, the angle closed as the Stevenage defence recover Griffin plays it across goal, but can’t pick out a teammate the ball launched clear.

Stevenage’s Kristal Clarke

End to end. Wilson with a clever turn on the ball as she wins it high for Stevenage clipping it into the right wing for Clarke to break away, has no one with her however as she plays the ball into the box, Newmarket clear and get straight on the attack, going left the ball fired into the box has Docking bearing down on goal six yards left side shoots, Alderman with the blocking save, deflected out to the top of the area, Griffin latching onto the ball fires her first time effort wide of the far post.

Merkis with room to play the ball in the middle plays a great ball out to Kelly on the right looks to bring it down off her body spin of Marsh as she comes to close her down, the full back, with a superb tackle to get her foot on the ball prevents Kelly from racing in behind. Into the last 15 minutes of the game, feel it can go either way right now and one goal from either side would seal the win. The rain starting to fall heavily again just to add to the drama.

Stevenage’s Ellis Merkis

Kelly seeing the ball down into her feet off a throw on the left for Stevenage, digs it free to get inside to fire a cross into Millen positioned right of the D, looking to control it off her chest strike the ball, Sturgess gets in the way to block for the visitors. Thompson lining up a shot from range for Newmarket held by Alderman. Thompson’s last action of the contest as she comes off with Corley send back into the action.

Neave Wilson winning the ball

Alderman down quickly to save from Griffin now operating on the left as the cross-field ball comes into her from the right. Stevenage with another change, Martin coming off to be replaced by Holly Southam at the back. Gibson on for Walker driving forwards for Newmarket central pushes it into Docking top of the D, turns runs into Wilson the ball half cleared to Griffin 20 out sends a high ball looping into the box, Alderman keeping her eye on it making the catch with Docking closing her down.

Clarke off for Stevenage with Kiera Mynott entering the action with 5 minutes left to play. Stevenage winning a free-kick wide on the right inside the Newmarket half, flighted into the near side, Wilson gets her head on the ball twisting to turn the ball on across t the far post, runners closing in but no meaningful contact as it runs behind for a goal kick. Stevenage regain possession at the back left side, Southam on for Mynott turns to send it down the line into Kelly wide looking for the return pass as she breaks into the area, Mynott receives it only for her attempt to shoot being charged down by Rennie.

Lilly Kelly on the attack for Stevenage

The clock ticking down into stoppage time the rain falling steadily Stevenage have a throw on the left inside the Newmarket half, Southam launching the throw into the box for Kelly to run onto left of goal bearing down on the six yard box, goes to shoot with the outside of her right foot her attempt inches wide of the near post!

Seconds left as Kelly gets hold of the ball drives through the middle, runs into traffic, Merkis regaining possession to clip the ball out to Kelly moving left, looks to turn on the ball drag it down the line, Marsh again close on her to deny the move. The final whistle blows the points are shared.

Full time Stevenage FC Women Development 0-0 Newmarket Town Women

Goalless draws are rare in women’s football, and even rarer on here, but this don’t let that fool you this was an enthralling contest, played in some awful conditions. As the clock ticked on you felt one goal could win it but that could have gone either way. Newmarket with a host of chances will feel unlucky not to be leaving Stevenage with 3 points but came up against a dogged defence and inspired keeper, couldn’t take their chances, hitting the woodwork and forcing a number of saves. Stevenage with an improved 2nd half seeing a goal disallowed may well have won it themselves in the dying seconds. This was as enjoyable a 0-0 as you could get, but then I was neutral so it might just have been me.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders but really only one clear winner. Both sides played their part some great performances out there, firstly for Newmarket, Millie Docking showed great movement and endeavour up front, coming for the ball and turning to attack, creating chances for herself and other on another afternoon has a hat-trick. Abbi Griffin providing a great outlet on the right, making several strong runs coming close to scoring herself. Abi Gibson with some fantastic movement to take the ball on. Solid debuts for the senior team for Hannah Marsh and Ailie Rennie at the back, while Ellie Sturgess won the majority of her tackles. For Stevenage, captain, Neave Wilson was superb winning the ball, strong in her tackles, got her team moving forwards. Ebba Taylor-Pugh with some great midfield running looked to link up the attack. Kristal Clarke strong with the ball showed great attacking intent. Lilly Kelly looking to receive the ball making some great runs on the ball. Kelsey Millen a constant outlet for the hosts on the right ready to race in behind creating chances. Today’s award winner is goalkeeper, Shannon Alderman, pulled off a number of fantastic saves which no doubt kept her side in the game all the way to the end.

Alright it was 0-0 but I enjoyed it despite the weather, both sides gave it there all could have gone either way in the finish. Players missing for both sides, but vital minutes for others, ERWFL Division One North is really competitive this season look forward to seeing how it all pans out. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams, I managed to stay dry too which is always a bonus.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Sunday 19th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

sponsored by Harrod Sport

Into the New Year, which means we’re into the business end of the various county cup competitions across the East, with most into the quarter final stage. Several tasty ties in the last 8 of those competitions too, none more so than in Norfolk and the all ERWFL Premier Division clash between Wroxham Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women.

Both sides receiving a bye to the quarter final stage of the competition.

Wroxham Women reaching the final of the competition for the 1st time in their history last season. getting to play at Carrow Road. Missing out to Norwich City FC, will be aiming to repeat the run this season, but know they have a tough quarter final ahead of them. Has been a frustrating season so far this season, with a number of games postponed and 2 abandonment’s, which has left them down in 10th position, but like most of the sides in the bottom half of the table have games in hand and the potential to push for a top half finish. Injuries playing their part too are the draw specialists in the league, with 5 of their 9 league games ended all square to date.

Hannah Fuller, Wroxham’s star striker often prolific in front of goal again top scorer so far this season with 12 goals from her 14 appearances. A good return from defender, Chelsea Clarke too, netting 8 goals so far this campaign. Captain, Becky Russell recently announcing she is pregnant with her 2nd child sees vice captain Tigi Robson taking on the captain’s armband.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women, piping Harpenden Town Women to the ERWFL Division One North title last season as they stepped up to regional football for the 1st time in their history to win promotion to the Premier Division (step 5). Very sadly the club has loss one of it’s founder coaches with Andy Hutchin passing away to cancer last year, with the club since it’s youth beginning with Sprowston, was a likeable and well thought member of the woman’s football community in Norfolk with his whole family involved in the club, very sadly missed.

Winning promotion at the first attempt meant stepping up another level in quick succession. Have always thought the ERWFL Premier Division is where you notice a extra quality, a competitive league with alot of talented players. Dussindale & Hellesdon’s aim very much to retain their place in the league. A heavy loss to start, before seeing their 1st home game, against Wroxham abandoned due to injury. A couple more narrower defeats following the club has slowly started to find it’s feet in the league getting games in where other haven’t due to having an all weather pitch, picked up their 1st win at home to St Albans, and another against bottom side Cambridge City. Back to back win in November pulling them away from the danger zone at the bottom of the table, drawing 2-2 at Wroxham in December, having led 2-0 before seeing a player sent off. Starting the year with a win to climb to 5th feeling in go shape to complete their main goal of staying up. Now to see if they can make progress in the county cup. Anais Winney and Kyla Lagan the top scorers with 6 apiece with Rosie George netting 5.

Always good to see a club sign acknowledging their women’s team too.

The venue today the Ginger Pickle Area, or Trafford Park, home of Wroxham FC know as The Yachtsmen & women. The large grass pitch sloping slightly offers lots of space, a little cut up with the recent poor weather, but having seen their first 2 games of the year called off due to the weather, Wroxham haven’t played since their 2-2 with Dussindale & Hellesdon. The clubhouse and bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Standing all round the ground with a covered seated stand opposite the dugouts. The weather miserable, grey and overcast, not overly warm but still with no rain forecast.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Gambell, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Tigi Robson (C), Poppy Loveland, Rachel Cossey, Jennifer Drummie, Chelsea Clarke, Hayley Kindred, Lily Alexander & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Albany Hodgson, Rio Dobbie & Leilah Gooding.

Wroxham Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Holly Walker, Jess Barnes, Calista Tink (C), Rachel Jermy, Chloe Shipman, Kari Kowalcyzk, Sofia Odell, Alisha Juby & Kyla Langan.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Calista Tink and Tigi Robson with today’s match officials

Wroxham welcome back defender, Albany Hodgson making her return after a long spell out with injury, on the bench today. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris starting for Wroxham is dual signed with FAWNL side Cambridge United WFC. Chloe Shipman having played for Wroxham in the sides 2-2 draw back in December, starts for Dussindale & Hellesdon this afternoon. It’s Dussindale & Hellesdon to get the quarter final tie underway wearing an all claret kick with the hosts Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the defence played out to Holly Walker on the left, Wroxham closing in to immediately chase the ball down charged down for a throw in.

Wroxham looking to press the ball inside their opponents half right from the off, pushed up, Cheal-Ferris from left back clipping a diagonal ball up towards the top of the D aiming for Hannah Fuller in attack, Jess Barnes getting to it first to head clear for the visitors. A lively opening Dussindale & Hellesdon not settled, Wroxham pushing up looking to disrupt push the midfield back onto the defence. Chelsea Clarke operating ahead of Cheal-Ferris on the left for Wroxham pulling wide to receive the ball. Rachel Bussey getting the block in to deflect the cross out for a throw.

On the opposite flank, Ella Gambell is pressing on from right back to support Hayley Kindred on the wing, Kindred turning into the box running into traffic, the ball rebounding out to Gambell who lines up a strike from range the ball whistling low through to keeper, Tyla Cole. Dussindale & Hellesdon struggling to get the ball to stick up to pushed back the Wroxham defence winning any clearances. Kari Kowalcyzk getting onto the ball in the centre looking to travel before attempting to thread the ball through for Kyla Langan making a run for her centre, Wroxham’s captain, Tigi Robson turning with her sticking a boot out to cut out the pass.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

Jennifer Drummie winning the ball for Wroxham in the middle putting a diagonal ball into the right wing for Kindred to attack, her first touch a little heavy, gives Holly Walker the opportunity to clear for the visitors. Wroxham getting players forwards showing intent, Fuller seeing the ball down into her feet right side of the area lays it inside for Kindred who sees Cheal-Ferris free out on the left flank plays the pass, Bussey stretching for it taking the ball out of Cheal-Ferris’ reach.

Sofia Odell brings the ball on up the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Alisha Juby looking to provide support, as Clarke comes back to defend sends the ball out for a throw, Dussindale & Hellesdon not making it count Wroxham hit the on the break, the ball sent out to the right, Fuller bringing it under control combining with Gambell and Kindred down the wing, Kindred’s run blocked winning the set-piece. Swung into the box from wide, headed clear, Wroxham quick to get the ball back, Cossey into Kindred right side, drives on attempts the cross, Walker getting something on it, turning the ball out for a throw.

Both Gambell and Cheal-Ferris able to come on double up on the flanks, keeping the momentum with Wroxham, as yet creating no clear cut opportunities. Fuller turning on the ball from a throw on the right sends a teasing ball in across the top of the D, Kindred looking to attack it, Barnes getting it clear in the nick of time. Dussindale & Hellesdon with little opportunity to get the ball into the final 3rd get hold of the ball high on the left, threaded though into the Wroxham box, Juby attacking it near post, Robson lunging in to send the ball out for a corner.

Cheal-Ferris getting on up the left linking up with Clarke going beyond her on the overlap the cross swung into the Dussindale & Hellesdon box, Barnes up to head clear. Drummie central with Cossey on for Clarke in a central position play drawn away from the left, Cheal-Ferris running into space, Clarke picking her out down into the corner, held up on the by-line twists and turns getting room so send in a low ball to the near post, cut out by Tink, conceding the corner. Clarke sending the ball into the mix half cleared Poppy Loveland getting it back for Wroxham top of the area playing it back out to Clarke to fizz another ball into the congested near post area, the ball driven in wide of the post for a goal-kick.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Alisha Juby

Robson bringing the ball on from half-way for Wroxham into the left channel looking to play Cheal-Ferris in down the wing is caught late, winning the free-kick. Clarke over the ball 25 plus yards out to the left of the area, curled in towards the near post, Drummie running onto the ball her shot blazed over. Chloe Shipman attempting to relieve the pressure on her defence clipping a ball upfield aiming for Juby, the Wroxham centre backs pushed up the the halfway line, it’s Loveland with the header to send the ball back the opposite direction.

Clarke getting hold of a misplaced pass 25 yards out for Wroxham left of the area fires it inside for Drummie making a central run lays it on for Fuller right of the D before continuing her run towards the area, Fuller attempts the return pass into her feet, Barnes winning it instead for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Rachel Jermy looking to get stuck into the ball get Dussindale & Hellesdon going forwards the visitors pushing on up the left the a hopeful ball played forwards behind the Wroxham defence has Langan racing forwards, as Bryony Williams starts to come to the top of her area, can’t quite reach it as Langan knocks it past her giving chase as Robson tries to recover the defender able to see the ball run wide of goal, another warning for Wroxham for all their play, Dussindale & Hellesdon have almost found a way through.

Cole up the other end rushing out of her area to clear as Wroxham turn play around quickly launching the ball up top for Fuller to burst beyond the defence. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick on halfway to the left, fancy it as they send players up from the back lining up across the top of the area. The ball flighted in towards the top of the are headed clear with the break on as Drummie comes away with the ball driving through the middle, lifted on for Fuller in attack, Cole rushing out of her area has to get there to clear, and does.

Wroxham’s. Rachel Cossey

Wroxham showing a strong determination to get the ball, winning most things fired forwards, Loveland with a couple of strong headed clearances, Clarke covering the ground finding some good positions, Cheal-Ferris and Kindred ready outlets on the flanks. Cossey seeing the ball on for Drummie sweeps a long ball out to Clarke breaking left into the corner her cross lifted into the six yard box claimed by Cole. The hosts with a throw on the right, Kindred taking it on powering into the box, a coming together, Kindred goes down the ball running through to the keeper, but no complaints.

Dussindale & Hellesdon get the ball on left side knocked into the middle, Clarke attempting to hook the ball away with Bussey closing her down, gets penalised for a high boot the visitors winning the free-kick, 35 yards out central Dussindale & Hellesdon again bringing players forwards the ball fired into the area, Williams calling for it comes into the crowd making a confident catch.

Shipman on for Jermy presses though the middle, Loveland sliding in with the challenge slowing Dussindale & Hellesdon’s progress, the ball coming out to the right on for Langan plays the ball into the box for Juby left of goal, tackled by Robson the ball behind for a corner kick. A good delivery dropping into the mix near post, a Wroxham player going down in the melee, a free-kick awarded.

Loveland intercepting at the back for Wroxham sends a great ball out to Kindred on the right, Walker closing her down. Dussindale & Hellesdon having found it tough going to get some momentum in the final 3rd starting to find their passes, Jermy getting after the ball helping, Odell coming on right side, Cheal-Ferris slowing her up as Kowalcyzk gets up to support, Clarke back to defend too the crossing opportunity won’t come the ball out for a throw.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Kari Kowalcyzk

Fuller linking up with Kindred high on the right exchanging passes before Kindred looks to turn into the box, Jermy nipping in on her to take the ball off her foot send it behind for a corner kick. Curled into the mix at the near post knocked don into a six yard box a snap shot, blocked, deflected to the top of the area, Odell attempting to break for the visitors, the ball forwards won back by the hosts.

Sophie Odell bringing the ball on for Dussindale & Hellesdon

GOAL! Into the closing stages of the first half Wroxham looking for the break through have the ball central rolled out to Clarke on the left lays it back for Robson who clips a great ball down the line for Cheal-Ferris to attack, power her way down into the corner before firing a pacy cross into the box, coming on to the right post Kindred meets it inside the area catching it sweetly to drive the ball low under the diving keeper, inside the post 1-0.

Hayley Kindred surrounded by her teammates as she scores the opening goal

Hayley Kindred

Wroxham with the lead in the 43rd minute. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to get on the attack as the clock ticks down the ball through the middle, Kowalcyzk getting up field sending the ball in towards Langan inside the D, Loveland cutting it out for the hosts.

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-0 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Wroxham heading into the changing room leading at the break. The break through coming late in the first half. Overall a deserved lead on the balance of play, Wroxham setting the tone early on came out of the traps fast looking to close the ball down squeeze play into the opposition half, getting on well down the flanks, has presented Dussindale & Hellesdon with a few problems, unable to get the ball forwards and make it stick, coming back the defence has put in a dogged shift limiting clear cut opportunities and if anything two of the best chances have fallen to the visitors with a couple of dangerous ball finding their way into the box exposing the hosts. Talking to both camps before the game expected nothing else. Just the one goal in it could still go either way and if all square after the 90 we go straight to penalties.

No changes for either side at the break. Wroxham to kick-off the 2nd period the ball played out to Cheal-Ferris left side, sends it long looking for Fuller up top, Barnes under the ball to clear for the visitors. Both sides battling for possession in the middle of the park, Gambell bringing the ball up the right for the hosts feeding it on for Kindred, charging forwards looks to go inside, Walker closing her down getting her foot on the ball.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Holly Walker

Jermy taking the ball on through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Robson stepping out of defence to close her down, the ball quickly forwards swept out to Cheal-Ferris surging up the left wing into the corner angling a cross into the area, claimed by Cole in her six yard box. The visitors finding space on the left running in behind to swing a cross into the box over the Wroxham defence falls to Juby beyond the far post, can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away before being closed down, manages instead to squeeze it back into Langan central top of the area, rushed into her shot the ball racing wide of the right post.

Rachel Jermy

Wroxham remain lively out on the flank, Clarke linking up with Cheal-Ferris breaking up the line forcing a throw off Bussey in the corner, leading to a corner kick. Clipped into the near post, cut out a launched clear by the Wroxham defence. Isn’t long before Wroxham have it back same result Clarke into Cheal-Ferris up the line to win the corner. Again into the near post, but this time it’s knocked on through the crowd to bounce up before Gambell in front of goal goes to strike it on the half volley, Cole having little time to react the ball coming in fast reacts brilliantly to produce a fantastic save batting the ball away to her left before being clear, Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to counter before play is stopped with Cole down in her area.

A pause in play while Cole is see to. A lively opening 10 minutes to the 2nd half, Wroxham coming close to doubling their lead, but for Cole who after treatment is able to continue. Play resuming with a drop ball, Drummie passing to Gambell right side forwards into Kindred, powers her way up the wing tracking infield to fizz a cross into Fuller central, Tink cutting it out for the visitors. Loveland getting hold of the ball at the back for Wroxham bringing it on sending a through ball into Kindred breaking up the right to the by-line her cross swung into the six yard box taken cleanly by Cole.

Dussindale & Hellesdon making the first change of the game bringing on Maddie Goodenough to replace Bussey in defence, sees a change in formation with Odell pushed further up to make it a 4-3-3. Fuller going in to win the ball with Walker seeing the pair coming together, Walker coming off worse landing awkwardly on her ankle. Another break in play needs looking at. While Walker is being assessed Wroxham make their first change bringing of Cossey in the middle with Leilah Gooding coming on.

Walker not happy with the challenge, is ok to continue play resumes, Kindred wit the ball into Alexander up the right off a throw in the corner looking for a corner, don’t get it. Tink forced into conceding a corner moments later however, from the right curled in across goal to the far post attacked knocked down towards the top of the area left of goal a strike blazed back in on the volley, blocked, Dussindale & Hellesdon with the ball threaten the break with players caught up field. Odell with the ball on her own left channel, Gambell does well to hold her up as Gooding comes round on the cover to clear the ball.

Wroxham’s Ella Gambell

Gambell down having taken a knock seeing another break in play. Kindred with the ball attacking right side for Wroxham plays the ball inside for Fuller, Barnes going with the striker getting her foot on the ball to clear for a throw. Another change for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Shanice Sutton joining the attack in place of Odell.

Fuller nicks the ball as a loose pass from the back 25 yards comes in her direction right of the D, opens the visitors defence up with a dangerous ball into the area, finding Clarke stealing inside unmarked to the left of goal, takes on the shot, driven in low towards goal, Cole diving on her line to pull off anther fantastic save blocking the ball, loose for a moment centrally, Kindred can’t get free of the recovering defence to follow up. The hosts with a determined display looking for a 2nd goal.

Goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

Jermy taking the ball on from Kowalcyzk in the middle lifting it high up towards the Wroxham defence an awkward one Loveland heading the ball up into the air, Wroxham can’t get it clear, as Juby rushes in to try and take it in behind, Williams out to the top of her area seeing the threat out to kick the ball to safety. The game opening up a little Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to push on force the Wroxham defence back give their own defence a little respite.

Wroxham defender, Poppy Loveland

Clarke coming off for Wroxham, with Rio Dobbie sent on. Attacking left side the ball played into the box, cut out Wroxham appealing strongly for a penalty, but nothing doing. Dussindale & Hellesdon frustrated with a few decisions going against them, Tink penalised for a shoulder barge presenting Wroxham with a free-kick outside the box left of the area 20 yards out. Kindred on the set-piece angles the ball in towards the far post, no one can get a touch as it runs wide for a goal kick.

Fuller taking on an Alexander pass into the right channel surging into the box, Barnes on her shoulder, gets to the ball to play it back to the keeper, coming onto her quickly little reaction time slices it behind for a corner to the right. The delivery in central knocked down off a defender towards her own goal, Kindred sticking out a leg inside the six yard box, Cole with another point blank save to block well on her line, the ball cleared out to the left for another corner.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink

Tallulah Bell coming on for Dussindale & Hellesdon to join the attack replacing Juby. Into the last five minutes of regular play, the game stretched as Dussindale & Hellesdon fire a long ball up to Sutton outside box knocks it down well into the path of the advancing, Jermy, looks to fire it forwards for Langan pulling in behind the defence, Robson cutting it out. Cheal-Ferris up with Dobbie on the left for Wroxham players drawn over to the ball as the cross field ball comes straight to Gambell free 30 yards out from goal central look to get her head down drive forwards see’s her collide with Jermy as she goes to close her down, going down, Dussindale & Hellesdon incensed as the free-kick is awarded against them.

GOAL! The free-kick in a good position 25 yards from goal roughly right of the D. It’s Drummie to take it, runs in hitting a superb strike angling in on goal over the keeper to see Wroxham at last double their lead 2-0.

Jennifer Drummie sending her free-kick over the keeper to double Wroxham’s lead

Wroxham midfielder, Jennifer Drummie

With all the stoppages however there is a good chunk of stoppage time to be played. Albany Hodgson making her return for Wroxham coming off the bench to replace Alexander as Wroxham look to see out the game goes into the middle. Dussindale & Hellesdon need to push players on, Kindred looking to exploit the space on the right driving to the by-line, Barnes going with her looking to run the ball out of play, Kindred attempting to play it off her try and win the corner can’t get it.

Cheal-Ferris too on the opposite flank driving into the corner, getting Wroxham a corner. Drilled in to the near post area, scramble clear, Dussindale & Hellesdon can’t get the break going. Juby back on for Dussindale & Hellesdon as they look to make a push to get a late late goal force some last gasp pressure, Gambell doing well in defence to win the ball as the ball is lifted up top into Langan.

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

Jermy driving on with the ball out to the right the cross swung in from deep the Wroxham defence tracking back into their own box, it’s Hodgson who gets her head on the ball to clear. Play stopped Kindred taking a knock down concern around her neck but time taken is slowly back to her feet. 5 minutes of stoppage time already played more to come, Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to mount a late charge, Fuller offside as Barnes steps up to clear on halfway launching the ball forwards.

GOAL! Into the 9th minute of stoppage time Dussindale & Hellesdon pushed up Jermy through the middle squeezing a ball in behind the defence to the right of the area, Williams racing out to try and close down Bell, the attacker nicking the ball past her to roll on into the back of the empty net to set-up a nervous finish 2-1.

Tallulah Bell pulling a goal back for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

2 minutes left the call from the referee, William hurt as she came together with Bell but alright to play on. Gooding sending the ball up to Fuller who runs the ball into the corner, playing for time Kindred up to support, the ball scrambled clear but brought back for Dussindale & Hellesdon free-kick. The ball into the middle helped on almost sees Sutton pulling into the left channel stealing in behind, but for a vital cut out from Loveland. Everyone up for Dussindale & Hellesdon bar Barnes as they look to force the game into a penalty shootout, Robson fouled by Bell the ball sent up to Fuller in attack running through the middle Barnes on her shoulder has to time her tackle well, and does.

Full time Wroxham Women 2-1 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Wroxham winning the game 2-1 to advance to the last for of the county cup. A determined performance right from the off taking the game to their opponents pushing players on unsettling Dussindale & Hellesdon early on. Scoring late in the first half. Looked to press the advantage 2nd half double the lead early but goalkeeper Tyla Cole produced a number of top draw saves to deny them and keep her side in contention, the visitors changing things up looking to score themselves the game opening up, Wroxham having to wait till the 87th minute to get the 2nd goal. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a dogged defensive display, kept going finding a goal late in stoppage time to set up a tense end to the contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time for this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. This is certainly a hard one to call some strong performances out there today. Firstly for Dussindale & Hellesdon, goalkeeper Tyla Cole pulling off several quality stops to deny Wroxham in the 2nd half to keep the score line down and her side in the game right till the end. Defender Jess Barnes with some good challenges timing her tackles well limiting opportunities through the middle. Rachel Jermy covering the ground in the middle getting after the ball making some good runs. Wroxham with a determination in their performance up for the game from the off on the front foot. Poppy Loveland winning the ball well at the back, both with her head and on the floor. Chelsea Clarke playing further forwards lively finding space and linking up well with the attack. Allowed Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris to bomb on on the left flank, got forwards throughout never giving Dussindale & Hellesdon a break. Hayley Kindred likewise, driving on with the ball lively scoring the opening goal. Pressing the game higher up the pitch Wroxham won the ball well, Jennifer Drummie in the thick of the action getting hold of the ball setting up numerous attacks. A great free-kick to double the lead wins todays award.

A cracking contest, Dussindale & Hellesdon getting stronger every time I see them never out of the game despite Wroxham piling on the pressure. My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams, I might be familiar with all the players but those numbers always help.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Seaward FC

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL South East Division One

A late start to 2025 for myself, but so too for many clubs with the weather at the start of the year leading to two successive weekends of substantial postponements. Thankfully today’s planned match is on, albeit relocated to the neighbouring astro pitch as Cambridge United WFC look to continue their recent good form as they take on London Seaward FC in FAWNL South East Division One.

Representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid FAWNL South East Division One has proven an intriguing league to follow in the first half of the 2024/25 season with 9 of the 12 sides staying in close contention with no one able to break away and it will certainly be interesting to see who can emerge on top come the end of the season.

Cambridge United WFC amongst that pack, a frustrating run of defeats seeing momentum stalled towards the end of the year, injuries to key players at the start of the season and early into the season not helping, have gradually got back to full strength and a positive run to end 2024 picking up to huge wins against Actonians and Norwich City saw the club rebuild momentum and get back at amongst the cluster of sides above them, earning manager Darren Marjoram a nomination for FAWNL Division One manager of the month along the way.

Striker Sarah Wiltshire back at the start of this season after having her 3rd child breaking her arm, on season’s eve. Bella Simmons has stepped up to provide the goals in her absence netting 12 so far this season, and with Wiltshire now back and scoring herself Cambridge have a potent attack along with Alysha Stojko-Down in midfield who has 6 goals to her name to date. Defender, Ella Finneran, joining from London Seaward FC over the summer another suffering injury in pre-season has taken her a while to return to match fitness, no playing a keen to show what she can do.

London Seaward FC formed from the old Leyton Orient side that gained promotion to the FAWNL a few season’s back, Leyton Orient FC pulling their support and name for the women’s side they became an independent women’s football club, with a strong squad and young manager in Dan McKimm who quickly earned a high reputation, eventually leading to him being offered the London Bees management role, that has seen several London Seaward players move across the capital to join him.

The loss of manager and a good portion of players over the summer saw something of a rebuild take place at London Seaward, possessing a healthy squad of players, nevertheless have had to bring several new players in, amongst those, goalkeeper, Alex Baker a vastly having played for Billericay Town Women and defender, Beatrice Rogers who started last season with Cambridge United WFC. An unsettled spell the managers role now taken on by Jason Murray as the club looks to beat the drop. Despite starting the season with a win London Seaward FC find themselves in a battle to avoid relegation along side Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and Chesham United Women, with 2 of the 3 going down. Just a single point earnt since, have nevertheless been working hard, fighting for points encouraged in recent games a narrow 1-0 loss at home to Norwich last weekend felt they could have taken something from the game. Katherine Long top scorer with 5 goals to her name.

With the freezing weather looking to put pay to the action on the grass pitches this weekend, Cambridge had a back-up playing at St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the site has an astro itch situated behind the main stadium. Permission sought to relocate the game to get it on. Have covered a few games on the pitch not recently however, the fenced pitch now having a small covered area by the side for spectators as well and standing viewing behind one goal. A few layers on to protect from the cold, felt quite pleasant actually, if just above freezing a warm cup of tea helping. A large pitch offering good width.

Today’s game relocated to the Premier Plus Stadium’s astro pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb Lauren Rouse Abbie Jackson, Elle Finneran, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Eva Hubbard (C), Serena Cobb, Alysha Stojko-Down, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten, Sammy Edgar & Rosy Wodhams.

Cambridge United WFC

London Seaward FC starting XI – Alex Baker, Mia South, Rochelle Mayne, Niamh McKevitt, Beatrice Rogers, Sharne Harris, Maisie Cannon (C), Suzy Davies, Laila Malcolm, Leila Awan & Cloe O’Brien. Subs – Lily Aungier, Emma Cianter & Zainab El-Mouden.

London Seaward FC

Captain’s Maisie Cannon and Eva Hubbard with today’s referee, Sarah Tonks

Cambridge getting back to full strength have Elle Finneran in a defence making her 2nd start of the season. The hosts having the kick-off in the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. London Seaward lining up without top scorer Long opposite wearing light blue shirts with a navy swirl design, navy shorts and light blue socks. Cambridge launching the ball out to the right wing for Charlotte Gillies to attack as she bursts forwards, Sharne Harris under it to win the header for the visitors the ball out for a throw in.

Cambridge looking to press the ball high up the pitch in the early exchanges Gillies on the right in to close the ball down inside for Sarah Wiltshire she looks to release Gillies down the line, held up by Harris knocked back up the pitch to be crossed into the box, Niamh McKevitt heading clear inside the box for London Seaward. The visitors regain possession in the middle look to counter attack, Suzy Davies taking the ball forwards through the middle with a powerful run threading it out to the right flanks for Leila Awan, looks to take the ball on, Cambridge defender Abbie Jackson moving out to close her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw.

London Seaward’s Leila Awan

Both sides competitive looking to win the ball, Cloe O’Brien up top for London Seaward moving about the ground looking to close down the defence, Finneran dispossessing Awan as she looks to attack on the right again, the ball cleared into Bella Simmons on halfway turns and drives forwards with the ball for Cambridge laying it out to captain Eva Hubbard drifting out to the left side, Awan tracking back to help in defence closing her down before she turns inside looking to cross.

O’Brien fouling Finneran as she brings the ball on down the left a free-kick on half way the ball lifted out to the right side, Gillies taking it on whipping a cross low into the near post, Rochelle Mayne able to shield it back to her keeper as Wiltshire looks to attack it. Simmons with some great movement coming for the ball for Cambridge and turning to drive at the London Seaward defence moving right looks to send Gillies on down the line, Harris getting her foot out to block the pass bring the ball away for the visitors.

Competitive, a few robust challenges being made free-kicks given away, Alysha Stojko-Down with the pass into Simmons moving into the right channel 25 yards out attempts to feed the ball on for Wiltshire ahead of her as she breaks into the box, Mayne getting across her to see the ball back safely to her keeper. A pause in play as both Davies for London Seaward and Rouse for Cambridge are down with knocks, both hobbling slightly as they get back to their feet but both okay to play on. The Cambridge defence pushed up often to the halfway line as the hosts look to press London Seaward.

Jackson winning the ball at the back for Cambridge lifting a great pass forwards for Ella Marden on the left, into the corner has Wiltshire coming to support, taking the ball inside sends a dangerous ball looping across the face of the London Seaward goal on the angle out past the far post for a goal-kick.

Ella Marden taking the ball on for Cambridge

Cambridge winning the ball well looking to get forwards, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left wing sees her cross, deflected behind of Mia South for a corner kick. Swept in across the six yard box dropping far post, no one can make contact as London Seaward retrieve the ball and look to break up the left with Harris on the ball. O’Brien fighting for the ball in the Cambridge half, squirms away with it looking for options, Beatrice Rogers providing an attacking run on the right, the Cambridge back line hold their line well, Rogers straying offside.

Beatrice Rogers stretching to win the ball for London Seaward

Rogers doing the defending up the other end as Cambridge looking to send a diagonal ball from the centre into Stojko-Down as she breaks forwards into the left channel, Rogers winning the ball. Simmons linking up with Gillies as Cambridge attack down the right, Gillies delivering a vicious cross into the penalty box, Wiltshire looking to cushion it down into her feet hit on the half volley, the touch a fraction to heavy, giving Mayne the vital fraction of a second to swing her leg out launch the ball clear.

London Seaward defender, Rochelle Mayne

Hubbard up on the left for Cambridge with the hosts winning the ball back on halfway a strong forwards run, Rogers closing her down to tackle win the ball back the visitors looking to launch a rapid counter attack the ball played into Awan central, Rogers bursting on up the right sees the ball played into her path taking it on down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, however making a comfortable catch.

Suzy Davies carrying the ball forwards for London Seaward

Cambridge with the lions share of the ball going forwards, London Seaward absorbing alot at the back, nevertheless look a threat on the counter attack and lively Cambridge can’t afford to get complacent in possession. Harris bringing the ball on well on the left for London Seaward, O’Brien coming to receive the ball, turns looking to attack the Cambridge defence, runs into Rouse, doesn’t get very far.

London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon

London Seaward captain, Maisie Cannon getting hold of the ball forwards for Davies on to Awan right side attempts to turn infield, Finneran stretching out a leg winning the ball back for Cambridge. Laila Malcolm with a strong challenge to win the ball for the visitors, O’Brien coming back to receive the ball, turns sending the threaded ball into Awan on the right, comes inside her cross intercepted outside the box.

Cambridge’s Elle Finneran

Harris fouled by Stojko-Down on halfway, South over the set-piece as London Seaward send players up the field. The ball lifted into the top of the Cambridge box, Jackson attacking it to win the header clearing for Cambridge. Simmons picking the ball up from deep for Cambridge with another powerful run with the ball drifting right lays it out to Gillies who runs it to the by-line before whipping her cross into the six yard box, Rogers pulling her foot through the ball as she turns in front of goal to clear the ball away to the left for a throw.

Cambridge building pressure pushing players on Hubbard left with Stojko-Down who is fouled outside the area to the left of goal. The free-kick floated into the far post area knocked down the ball blocked inside the six yard box, half cleared a shot struck from outside the area on the right also blocked with London Seaward all back to defend. Cambridge winning the ball back inside the final 3rd a shot from range on the right driven in on goal straight at the keeper, Baker with a straight forward save.

O’Brien up top on her own getting about well to try and press the Cambridge defence, frustrated a little too strong with her tackles at times. Malcolm getting hold of the ball for London Seaward looks for the run of Awan to the right, lays it inside for O’Brien, but she is closely marked by Jackson who prevents her turning 30 yards out.

Cloe O’Brien bringing the ball under control for London Seaward

Cambridge on the attack right side the cross-field ball out to the left won by Marden outside the area played into the area for Wiltshire to latch onto, burst on towards the near post in behind the defence gets her strike away on the angle, Baker behind the ball reacting well beating the ball down, her defence quick to recover to scramble the ball away to safety as Simmons races in to try and attack the loose ball.

Davies and Marden tussling for the ball out on the left, Marden winning the free-kick on half way. Flung out to the right side, Simmons fouled as an overly high challenge comes in attempting to win the ball. The set-piece 30 yards out to the right of goal. Wiltshire’s ball into the top of the area cleared out to the left Marden latching onto it sending it back in towards the far post Jackson looking to attack it a faint touch out behind for a goal kick.

London Seaward keep soaking up the pressure ready to launch the counter Davies marching forwards with the ball playing a diagonal pass out to Harris bombing on up the left coming inside fires a ball into the area angling across goal, Webb can see it safely wide of her far post. Awan with good foot work on the ball wriggling away to burst forwards left channel before being upended by Rouse winning the free kick. South on the set-piece lifted into the top of the area, Jackson with the clearing header once again.

Abbie Jackson heading the ball clear for Cambridge

Cambridge guilty of giving away free kicks inviting a little pressure themselves, the ball played into the box from deep on the left is missed by the defence as it drops on the penalty spot, O’Brien’s eyes lighting up as she snatches a shot away, Webb with a fantastic save from point blank range saving with her legs as the ball is struck at her, deflected away to the right and cleared for a throw in.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

London Seaward encouraged from the throw 25 yards out dropped into O’Brien turns to send the ball into Awan top of the D takes the ball over to the left looking for an opening takes on the strike from 20 yards out dragging her effort wide of the left post.

Hubbard out to Marden attacking down Cambridge’s left sends the ball into the London Seaward box, Stojko-Down running in near side turns the ball wide of the post. Malcolm into Harris on the left for London Seaward up the wing into Awan, drives forwards before being brought down right on the edge of the area. A dangerous position, South on the set-piece fired into the the Cambridge wall.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Cambridge for all their attacking play frustrated by London Seaward, matching their formation dropping back, clear cut chances hard to come by, Hubbard from a free-kick central playing the ball on for Simmons, looks to knock it down for Stojko-Down positioned top of the box, Mayne in close on her defending for London Seaward. Wiltshire pulled down as she attacks out right for Cambridge 25 yards from goal. Over the resulting free-kick herself swings the ball in close on goal, Baker getting up well to claim the ball for the visiting side.

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down with London Seawards’ Laila Malcolm

The first half rapidly drawing to a close, Baker with the ball in her gloves with the drop kick, smashes the ball against the back of one of her unsuspecting defenders 20 yards out floored the ball rebounds straight into the path of Wiltshire outside the D, takes a wild swing at the ball attempting to find the exposed goal, instead pulls her attempt wide of the left post thankfully for Baker.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 London Seaward FC

The sides head into the changing room goalless at the break. A spirted display in defence from London Seaward have soaked up alot of pressure without presenting their opponents with many clear cut opportunities. Cambridge on top in terms of possession, maybe a little frustrated winning the first ball well, the 2nd not so much as London Seaward work hard to close it down in the final 3rd. The visitors actually with the best opportunity in the first half forcing a point blank save from Webb. Have looked to break with pace turn play around so far frustrating Cambridge.

No changes for either side as the floodlights come on at the beginning of the 2nd half, what little (warmth) there was has faded time to get the hat out as the two sides emerge for from the changing rooms neither making a change with London Seaward getting the 2nd 45 underway. The back into midfield finding it’s way back to Baker in goal as Cambridge look to get on the front foot straight away pressing the ball.

Simmons taking the ball on up the right wing playing the pass inside to Cobb pushing on towards the box looks to send the ball inside towards Wiltshire, can’t quite bring it down under control as McKevitt closes her down the ball cleared away to the left side, Marden latching onto the shot 25 yards out sending a powerful shot in towards goal, threatening to fly in under the crossbar Baker with a wonderful save getting a glove up to tip the ball over the crossbar.

London seaward defender, Niamh McKevitt

From the resulting corner on the right the delivery is curled in across the face of goal dropping far post met by Jackson’s head six yards out planted her attempt straight at the keeper, Baker grabbing hold of the ball. Cambridge with a positive start to the 2nd half have London Seaward pushed back into the final 3rd, Malcolm fouling Simmons as she looks to keep hold of the ball on the right. Jackson playing the free-kick on up the right for Simmons as she looks to combine with Gillies playing the one two, Harris going with Gillies able to see Simmons return pass out of play for a goal-kick.

Hubbard getting forwards on the left for Cambridge brought down outside the area. Wiltshire over the set-piece from the angle 25 yards out takes on the shot, Baker behind it all the way to save comfortably. Fouls being given away on both sides, London Seaward finding it harder to get out from the back as Cambridge work to close the ball down keep building pressure.

Thing’s tight in the box, Cambridge getting players on struggling to carve a hole through a determined London Seaward defence, South putting in the blocking tackle as Hubbard looks to lay Stojko-Down in left of goal. Jackson intercepting on half way for Cambridge playing the ball back into the middle for Hubbard who has Cobb breaking forwards ahead of her into the right channel, seeing the ball into her feet drives on, Harris coming to close her down with a strong tackle to get the ball clear for the visitors.

London Seaward’s, Sharne Harris

Won’t stick up top, O’Brien working hard still to close the defence down, lacking support with her side pushed back, does well though to win her side a free-kick out on the left 30 yards from goal, an opportunity to relief the pressure, South on the ball, sends a high ball looping up in towards goal, Webb not distracted by runners closing in keeping her eye on the ball to take a clean catch.

Cambridge making the first change of the game with Rosy Wodhams coming onto the pitch, in place of Marden with Hubbard moving over to the left. Simmons out to the right for Cambridge taking the ball on from Gillies driving into the corner, whips a low cross into the near post close on goal, Mayne tracking back, getting their in front of Wiltshire to intercept. Wodhams adding another threat with her midfield runs for Cambridge driving at the defence, Cannon lunging in to halt her run.

Maisie Cannon winning the ball for London Seaward

Wodhams seeing the ball down into her feet from a throw on the right as Cambridge look to find the break through, turns quickly to thread the pass into the area for Stojko-Down bursting clear right of goal, the angle closing down releases her strike, targeting the near post, Baker down sharply to divert the ball into the side netting, corner.

The delivery comes looping in beyond the far post the six yard box crowded, the ball headed back over to the right side, turned behind for a 2nd corner. Hubbard playing the ball back into the area headed clear for a throw on the right. Simmons pushed over out wide on the right for Cambridge 25 yards out, Wiltshire to deliver the set-piece into the area, knocked clear into Wodhams central, lays it back to Wiltshire who sweeps the ball into the far post area on the angle, Jackson attacking it driving her header wide of the far post, the London Seaward defence stepping up well though catching her offside.

Most of the play inside the London Seaward half, Cambridge knocking on the door looking for the opening goal, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left sweeping a cross long into the box, Harris dealing with it for London Seaward. Tense out there, London Seaward battling, Cambridge a little frustrated, attack on the right Wiltshire quicker to the ball snatching onto it as she breaks into the area wide of goal from the angle looks to shoot across the keeper, Baker down well pushing the ball away to the left. Cambridge retrieving left side clipping the ball back into the mix, Mayne up stretching to meet it with her head very nearly turns the ball into her own net, Baker with the reactive save at close range to beat the ball down, a scramble for the ball ensues London Seaward digging it away to safety, play paused with Baker down having taken a knock but able to continue.

Serina Cobb bringing the ball on for Cambridge

Simmons looking to chase the ball down as it is rolled forwards into the box, running out of room gets a faint touch to play it off Mayne tracking her run to win a corner kick, although I’m not certain Mayne made contact with the ball, she certainly doesn’t think so. Corner nevertheless. London Seaward not happy a few tempers flaring as a couple of decisions go against them a free-kick awarded wide on the right, Wiltshire to deliver players up into the are swung into the six yard box headed away to the left a 2nd cross put into the mix, Baker up well to get hold of the ball.

Goalkeeper Alex Baker with a number of saves to keep it at 0-0

London seaward making their first change, Emma Cianter coming on in place of Davies. Cambridge making a change too with Sammy Edgar coming into the midfield replacing Cobb midway through the half. All action Cambridge pushing for a goal Hubbard attacking on the left sending in a cross long to the far post Gillies providing the run looking to head the ball back in at goal, Harris tracking back with her, the winger can’t get the ball over the defender, Harris cutting it out clearing the ball.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse

Rouse brings the ball forwards for Cambridge pushing the ball on into Stojko-Down who helps the ball on into the area for Wiltshire making the attacking run ahead of her pulls the trigger, Mayne blocking for London Seaward. 20 minutes left the visitors fighting hard at the back, Hubbard attacking left side, swinging a cross into the penalty spot, McKevitt up well to head the ball away for London Seaward. Simmons lively on the right linking up with Gillies, Harris snapping back at the ball to put it out for a throw.

Bella Simmons

GOAL! The break through comes for Cambridge, have been knocking on the door all through the 2nd half, Gillies on the right plays the ball inside to Wodhams who makes a driving run at the London Seaward defence right of the D 20 yards out players converging to close her down the ball blocked is deflected away across the top of the D, Stojko-Down finds herself in space running onto the loose ball and meets it sweetly rifling the ball beyond Baker into the top corner to score 1-0.

Build up to the opening goal, Alysha Stojko-Down moving to attack the loose ball

Took a wonder strike but the London Seaward defence is finally breached Cambridge with the lead, the visitors responding with a change, Cannon coming off to be replaced by Lily Aungier. London Seaward immediately look to force there way forwards, Harris determined on the left, comes off the worst in a 50/50 challenge with both Rouse and Simmons moving in to block the ball as the wingback goes to strike it. Harris getting the decision winning her side a free-kick. South to play the ball into the top of the area Cambridge defend.

Harris brought off for London Seaward as the visitors send on Zainab El-Mouden, the game opening up a little. Hubbard from a throw on the left wins Cambridge a corner as her cross from the by-line is deflected behind. The corner curled in centrally, met by Jackson her header threatening to fly in under the bar, Baker once more with a fabulous save to tip the ball over for another corner.

In from the right the ball is knocked down to the top of the area, falling for Hubbard can’t quite dig the ball out of her feet as London Seaward rush out to close her down, snatches her shot wide of the left post. The game opening up with London Seaward in need of an equaliser, Baker looks to be beaten as the shot from 20 yards out right of the D loops over her, the ball smashing against the crossbar drops down into the six yard box and is scrambled clear.

London Seaward break away through the middle O’Brien striding on with the ball releasing Cianter out wide on the right presses for the corner before sending an angled ball low into the near post, Webb down to the floor to smother the ball. Edgar finding Simmons out on the right the Cambridge attacker sending the ball up the line for Wiltshire powers her way forwards dragging two London Seaward defenders with her before checking back inside leaving them in her wake as she turns into the box and strikes the ball goal-wards, Baker there down to make the save.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Gillies

Jackson having picked up a slight knock for Cambridge coming off at the back in the closing stages of the game, with Gisela Otten coming on. The game stretched players tiring, Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the right side bursting into the area, McKevitt recovers well to get back at her lunging across her angled shot to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick.

The game tense, Cambridge getting a little nervy, determined to hold onto there lead as London Seaward have to take a few risks get forwards themselves the pitch opening up. Edgar lining up a strike from all of 30 yards out, blasted straight at the keeper. Simmons with the ball on the right forwards into Wiltshire outside the box, lays it off for Wodhams pushing up from the middle, Malcolm sliding in to win the ball back for London Seaward top of the D.

A 4th change for Cambridge with defender Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris coming on to replace Hubbard as the hosts look to see out the game. Into stoppage time seconds left, London Seaward winning a free-kick out on the right, send everyone forwards into the box including the keeper as South floats the ball into the mix, all happening as players look to attack the ball, the referee falling over too, the ball scrambled clear by Cambridge the break is on Gillies racing after the ball, Baker stranded in the wrong area, only South has a chance of catching the winger as she races back to her own goal looking to close the angle, Gillies taking a touch, putting her foot through the ball from distance sees the ball run wide of the right post.

Everyone into the Cambridge box for a last gasp free-kick

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 London Seaward FC

Alysha Stojko-Down with the 2nd half screamer, sealing the 3rd league win in a row for Cambridge as they pull themselves securely back into the jostle amongst the sides pushing for top spot in the division. Were made to work for it by a determined London Seaward who battled hard in defence for a long period in the 2nd half, Alex Baker with a number of saves keeping her side firmly in the game took a wonder strike to beat her. London Seaward return home frustrated with another narrow defeat, may well have had the lead in the 1st half, however Cambridge came out determined in the 2nd half, rarely letting their opponents out, players attacking looking for the opening, frustrated were knocking on the door the goal certainly a relief when it came back to back clean sheets too a positive start to 2025 London Seaward remain in the bottom two the gap to Chesham four points, will fight for every one with 7 games to go.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2025. This is certainly a tough one with several contenders and have to give both sides credit for their all round team performances. Firstly for London Seaward, the whole defence put in a shift, goalkeeper Alex Baker pulling off a number of top draw saves to frustrate Cambridge and keeper her side right in contention. Leila Awan with several positive runs in the first half especially looking to create openings. Sharne Harris fighting to the ball, defending out on the left with a number of vital tackles. For Cambridge the 3 at the back with less to do but still very well organised and marshalled the middle of the pitch well with Cambridge pushed up, Abbie Jackson adding a threat from set-pieces inside the box with a couple of good opportunities to score herself. Captain Eva Hubbard with several good runs forwards taking the ball out to the left and looking to pick out the strikers inside the box. Alysha Stojko-Down with a superb winning goal, found pockets of space to exploit throughout in a congested final 3rd. The award though goes to Bella Simmons, right form the off she was intent on winning the ball and drove continuously at London seaward back line linking up well with her fellow attackers, creating numerous opportunities.

Good to be back a good match to start 2025, as intrigued as anyone to see who will emerge out on top on FAWNL South East Division One. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. A cold one but the layers did their job.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Monthly Archives: January 2025

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women Development v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 26th January

ERWFL Division One North

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Sunday 19th January

Norfolk Women’s County Cup

sponsored by Harrod Sport

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Seaward FC

Sunday 12th January

FAWNL South East Division One