Monthly Archives: February 2025

Match Report – Colchester United Women v She Can Play Panthers

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Sunday 23rd February

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Heading down into Essex this Sunday to watch some action for the Essex Women’s Premier Division. 2nd versus 3rd with She Can Play Panthers travelling to take on Colchester United Women. 

 Very much a new look Essex Women’s Premier Division this campaign with a host of sides stepping up to join the ERWFL last season, along with a few dropping down a league and a couple of withdrawals, only Hutton Ladies Reserves still there from that campaign, with Southminster United Ladies, Chigwell Ladies and Colchester all promoted to the league along with new faces in, Brentwood Town Women, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies, Hashtag United Women Reserves and She Can Play Panthers.

Hashtag United Women Reserves leading the way with today’s opponents both looking to chase them down to the title. Each side playing each other 3 times during this league campaign.

 Colchester United reforming a women’s team at the beginning of last season, going into Essex Women’s Division Two, recruiting a strong squad going on to win all 20 of their league matches to romp to the title, along with winning the League Cup in their debut season. No surprise to see them go straight into the Premier Division off the back of that season. Made a strong start to the season two unbeaten in their opening 9 matches winning 7 of those before losing back to back matches against Hashtag United Women and She Can Play Panthers, bounced back well with back to back victories to take into today’s match.

Colchester’s 4th with She Can Play Panthers, who have had the upper hand so far drawing 3-3 in their first league encounter before winning twice again in the league and in the county cup by 2-0 and 2-1 score-lines respectfully. Have brought in experienced striker Jasmine Cox to bolster the attack, as 9 goals so far from her 7 appearances. Midfielder, Lindsey Morgan close behind netting 8 goals, while Jacqueline Craddock-Ball has 7 to her name and ruby Greenleaf 6 goals.

  She Can Play UK was founded in 2016  with one of it’s key goals to promote and development player pathways for girls aged 8-16 at grassroots level across Essex and Hertfordshire, bridging the gap to the WSL itself. Employing an all female coaching team working a development centres and playing in the JPL. The continued growth and success of the venture leading to a women’s team being established in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this season.

  Variable results to start the campaign, She Can Play Panthers have grown into the league a 3-3 with Colchester the catalyst to see the club go on an 8 game winning streak including a win against leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves that saw them briefly lead the table. Have plenty of goals in the side too, Evie Clarke leading the way top scorer so far netting 15 goals from her 11 appearances. Evie Walters as 12 goals from her 13 matches, with Georgia Maxwell-Jones closing in on double figures to with 9 from 7 games, Harriet Hudson too with 8 goals from her 13 games.   

Colchester Garrison the venue for this afternoons match. Situated on a a multi sports facility with hockey pitch and athletic track surrounding the clubhouse with the bar open offering hot food and drink. Beyond that the grass football pitch itself with a small seated stand with some covering on the opposite side to the dugouts situated in front of a small embankment. Rain forecast to arrive hopefully after the game finishes their was nevertheless a keen wind blowing making things feel decidedly chilly! Blowing from one end of the pitch to the other swirling too would influence play during the contest.

 Colchester United Women starting XI – Owen Hoskin, Lucy Yewman, Karys Paton, Niamh Gamble, Learna Daniels, Cassie Craddock-Ball (C), Thalia Adams, Tahlia Roome, Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, Lindsey Morgan &Ruby Greenleaf. Subs – Leah Pope, Ellie Cahill, Ruby Vinton, Emily Ager & Billie-Jo Williams.

Colchester United Women

 She Can Play Panthers starting XI – Meredith Kitchen, Shannon Simpson, Rebecca Denis (C), Aimee Burling, Ella Little, Molly Dodd, Evie Walters, Fran Ali, Hayley Halford, Harriet Hudson & Evie Clarke. Subs – Lily Davenport, Sammie Kuski, Kat Clifton & Danielle Ware.

She Can Play Panthers

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The captain’s head out to the middle to meet today’s match referee, Graham Pavitt. It will Colchester to take the kick-off in the 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and white socks with She Can Play Panthers lined up opposite wearing a stylish two toned purple shirt with purple shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the defence Colchester not closed down immediately looking to play it across the backline, Evie Clarke however comes snapping in for the Panthers, 25 yards out to charge down the ball steal possession and thread a diagonal ball into Hayley Halford pulling into the box left of goal, turns back to shoot across the keeper, Owen Hoskin right behind down smartly to save.

The visitors encouraged by the early shot on goal regain possession high on the right Clarke driving forwards squaring a cross into the near post deflected into the side netting for a corner kick. A dangerous ball fired in across the face of the Colchester goal, dropping invitingly at the far post however no one is their to attack it as Colchester attempt to break down the right, Molly Dodd across to challenge forcing play Colchester to play the ball back, the Panthers pressing high Dodd lifting the ball on for Harriet Hudson on the left wing knocks the ball on up the line, Lucy Yewman getting back at her to defend send the ball out for a throw.

Colchester full back, Lucy Yewman

The Panthers starting the game well pressing high on the wings a vicious ball fired in across the face of goal, Hoskin down sharply on her line to keep it out push it away to the left. Clarke gathering the ball into her feet on the right flank a power drive up the line looks to angle a cross into the six yard box, cut out by Colchester’s Karys Paton. The ball being shifted quickly both sides showing strong attacking intent, lively, Yewman looking to get on down the right for Colchester linking up with Thalia Adams shifting the ball into the midfielder continuing her run down the line, Adams sending the pass into her, Hudson tracking back for the Panthers challenging to see the ball out for a throw.

Lindsey Morgan seeing the throw down into her feet chipping it back to Yewman out wide to hook a cross into the box from 25 yards out, drops for Adams on the penalty spot, closed down before she can get a shot away, Aimee Burling clearing for the Panthers. The visitors break through the middle Dodd with Fran Ali the ball clipped on for Clarke to take on right side powers forwards before delivering a high ball into the six yard box, claimed well above her head by Hoskin.

Lively Colchester’s turn to attack, captain Cassie Craddock-Ball sending the ball on for Tahlia Roome moving into the left channel bursting towards the box attempts to thread a pass in between the Panther’s defence for Greenleaf to attack, a little too much on it allows goalkeeper, Meredith Kitchen to gather cleanly. Little let up in the tempo, Evie Walters snapping in to win the ball for the Panthers out to Hudson on the left, Learna Daniels across to support Yewman in defence as the winger looks to cut inside to cross. Panthers with a strong opening to the game moving past the quarter hour mark Colchester beginning to find their feet having been under a little pressure.

She can Play Panthers’ midfielder, Evie Walters

Coming through the middle Colchester build quickly Adams laying the ball on for Greenleaf 25 yards out, looks to thread it through for Jacqueline Craddock-Ball making the forwards run, a vital interception by Burling inside the D for the Panthers. The hosts getting on well down the right, Roome linking up well with Jacqueline Craddock-Ball and Greenleaf winning a corner off Shannon Simpson.

Panthers captain, Rebecca Denis on the left of defence making a crucial interception as Colchester look to stretch play Adams attempting to find Yewman breaking down the right wing. Colchester pushing up in attack left of the area Greenleaf on the ball top corner of the area inside for Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, sends the return pass back into the area for Greenleaf who gets a shot away before being closed down on the angle lofted up into the air looking for the top corner, the wind gets hold of it to see the ball, fly wide of the upright.

Colchester attacker, Ruby Greenleaf

Yewman seeing the ball into her feet on the right with a nice turn to get a cross away into the box, no one gambling to get on the end of it as Little clears. The Panthers defence playing themselves into trouble at the back not petting rid of the ball, with both Morgan and Roome snapping in to close it down force an error. Colchester making a change bringing off Greenleaf in attack, send on Ruby Vinton.

Dodd bringing the ball on through the middle for the Panthers has Ali up with her in support laying the ball into her feet looking to force her way into the Colchester area is tackled by Niamh Gamble. Colchester break with pace Cassie Craddock-Ball on for Adams through the middle, attempts to play Yewman in on the right, again the wind catches the ball making it a forlorn chase for the full back.

Jacqueline Craddock-Ball

Vinton up high with Morgan central outside the Panthers box pressing the ball, Morgan moving sending the ball into Vinton left of the D, shapes to shoot, Burling in to close her down charge down the shot. Roome getting on down the left for Colchester sweeping the ball into the area, headed clear by Burling. A change for the visitors as they bring off Clarke, with Hudson moving into a more advanced position, Danielle Ware coming on going to the left.

Denis bringing the ball on up the left for the Panthers sending it inside for Dodd, looks to clip in up into Hudson, Daniels closing her down for Colchester. Ware linking up with Hudson on the left as the Panthers attack with pace a cross fired in low to the near post, Paton running back in on her own goal, cutting it out behind for a corner kick.

Learna Daniels

Karys Paton bringing the ball on for Colchester

Jacqueline Craddock-Ball snapping in on Dodd to win the ball for Colchester in the final 3rd sends it forwards into Vinton, Dodd recovering to get after Vinton regains possession inside her own box. Roome up on the left with Vinton 25 yards out, Burling coming out of the back line to challenge halt the attack, Cassie Craddock-Ball winning it back quickly lifting the ball out to Morgan pulling wide left down the line in gets a cross into the near post under challenge form Simpson, Kitchen covering her post making a solid claim.

Lindsey Morgan with Panthers captain, Rebecca Denis

Hudson taking the ball on from Denis as the pair push up on the Panthers left flank, Hudson stealing inside looking to force her way into the area, Gamble moving in to close her down tackling to win the ball back. The visitors winning a free-kick inside the Colchester half, before it is taken they make a change, Clarke coming back on to replace Halford. Dodd over the set-piece, hooks the ball goal wards looking to score, Hoskin across her line can see the ball drop safely past her right post.

Molly Dodd

The wind a consideration for both sides especially high balls, despite that is a lively contest with both sides into each other looking to get on quickly with the ball, Little tackling well for the Panthers at the back as Jacqueline Craddock-Ball drives with the ball at her feet towards the area.

Panthers defender, Ella Little

GOAL! into the final 5 minutes of the first half Colchester building momentum the ball from Adams finding Vinton on the left outside the area, shifts it between her feet looking to drive into the box sends the pass on for Roome 8 yards out to the left of goal, Burling in to close her down the ball loose rebounds out wide to Vinton unmarked to strike goal-wards gets plenty behind the ball, Kitchen does well to get a palm up to try and keep it out but not enough as the ball finds its way through to the back of the net 1-0.

Ruby Vinton off the bench to fire Colchester into the lead

Panthers falling behind get straight on the attack from the restart the ball fed up the right for Clarke, angles a cross into the area, Adams tracking back into her box intercepting. Pushing up well on the right Walters seeing the ball into her feet of Clarke out wide corner of the area, goes to shoot, slipping as she does seeing a tame effort run safely through to the keeper. Kitchen out well to the top of her area to get hold of the ball as Morgan beats the offside trap to run in behind the Panthers defence.

Messy from the Panthers at the back as they lose the ball on the left Roome taking it on angling a shot in towards goal, pace behind it rising, Kitchen throwing out a glove to tip the ball wide of her right post over for a corner kick. Curled into the near post, defended for a 2nd corner kick. This delivery into the top of the area, Roome running in to strike the ball, blacked by Ali, deflected out to the left shot blasted in from range drops wide of the right post.

Dodd playing the ball into Ware getting on down the Panther’s left wing, riding a tackle going on towards the area, Daniels closing her down tackling to send the ball out for play for Colchester as the first half draws to a close.

Half-time Colchester United Women 1-0 She can Play Panthers

  Colchester edging the first half, Ruby Vinton’s goal late in the half the difference between the sides as the hosts opt to stay out for the interval, the Panthers heading to their changing room. The wind bitingly cold. A strong start from the visitors asking questions of the Colchester defence, getting forwards with purpose, Colchester taking a little time to get going but once they did it became a lively and competitive contest, the two sides evenly matches getting after the ball looking to get on quickly both keepers called into action. Still all to play for 2nd half, the Panthers recently 2-0 down to leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves at half-time coming back to win 3-2 so Colchester know it’s far from settled yet.

A change for the hosts at the break with Yewman coming off, Leah Pope coming on. No changes for the Panthers as they head back to the pitch will have the wind at their backs 2nd half as they get the game restarted, back to the defence played across the back before being lifted long down the left channel, Hudson breaking forwards but a simple gather for Hoskin in the Colchester goal. Denis carrying the ball on down the Panthers left knocked on for Ware to take on, clips a cross into the area, won by Adams for Colchester and cleared.

The Panthers starting the second half as they did the first getting on the front foot driving forwards Dodd through the middle a strong run on the ball lays it through into the area for Clarke, stabs a low shot in towards goal, can only pick out the keeper. The visitors getting bodies up into the final 3rd pushing the Colchester defence back into their box, Walters looking to pull off Gamble hooks a cross from the right into the area, Hoskin under it to catch for the hosts.

Clarke out right winning a throw high for the Panthers, Clarke off the throw sending a cross in along the top of the area, Ware attacking it centrally, her low shot straight forward for Hoskin. The pressure mounting Walters strong on the ball taking it left gamble moving to close her down challenging to send the ball behind for a corner kick. All action a dangerous delivery curled in right across the face of goal under the bar, Hoskin hurt as she goes to try and block it, the ball cleared on the line before being hooked clear, play stopped so the keeper can be seen to. The Panthers appealing feeling their was a hand involved somewhere in the goal line clearance but get no joy.

Hoskin okay to play on, play resuming with a drop ball outside the box, Panthers pressing to force another corner on the left. Is another dangerous delivery into the Colchester six yard box dropping in front of goal, attacked stabbed goal wards Hoskin with a brilliant save getting a glove on the bouncing ball to tip it high over her crossbar. Colchester under pressure regrouping as the corner comes into the box from the right, a brave header at the far post cushioned by a defender back towards goal caught confidently by the keeper.

A strong start to the 2nd half from the Panthers give a foul away to relieve the pressure on the hosts, lifted up into the area half cleared, Pope looking to steal in on the rebound inside the area, Dodd bringing it clear for the Panthers. Colchester get numbers up quickly in the right play drawn across as the angled cross comes flashing into the box, across the six yard box, Roome running in unmarked at the far post can’t get there.

Clarke picking up the ball inside her own half goes on a marauding run through the middle for the Panthers threatening to go all the way into the opposition area, Daniels the last defender getting across her to safely shield the ball back into her keeper’s gloves.

She Can Play Panthers, Evie Clarke

Denis pushing on with the ball for the panthers on the left on for Ware looking to shift the ball inside, Pope sticking out a leg tackling for Colchester.

Captain, Rebecca Denis

A similar story to the first half a strong start from the Panthers, beginning to drop off getting a little frustrated, by some decisions going against them and a determined Colchester defence. Roome doing well on the left for Colchester bringing the ball on sent on for Vinton up the line tracks to the by-line before checking back to try and deliver an acute shot in towards goal, easy gathering for Kitchen between the sticks.

Panthers goalkeeper, Meredith Kitchen clearing the ball before Morgan can close her down.

Roome driving on up the left for Colchester linking up with Vinton, head down looks to drive infield with the ball, Burling lunging in to tackle winning the ball back for the visitors. Halford back on for the Panthers with Simpson off. Little playing the ball forwards into Ware left side for the Panthers, Pope into make the challenge the ball going behind for a corner kick. Flung high into the near post, Hoskin getting a glove in the ball to punch it away to the right for another corner kick.

Clarke to send it into the box, curled into Denis on the penalty spot, looking to get it out from under her feet and shoot, Colchester move into defend en masse scramble the ball away. The Panthers working hard pushing players on winning a free kick out wide on the left as Roome and Halford come together going for a 50/50 ball. Denis to float into the area, headed clear by Adams.

Colchester determined to hold onto their lead are inviting pressure allowing the Panthers to come on, while getting little by way of relief on the attacking front, gaps appearing as the visitors over commit looking for the equaliser, remains lively. Hudson carrying the into the right channel up with Walters wide of her giving her the ball continues her run looking for the return pass into the box, Roome tackling well for Colchester, bringing the ball away breaking on the left forwards into Vinton, who moves infield only to be tackled by Little. Paton appears to have picked up a knock for Colchester needs to come off, Roome dropping deeper on the left with Billie-Jo Williams coming on ahead of her.

The Panthers visibly frustrated as they give niggly fouls away on half way, Little bringing down Vinton on halfway. Adams driving with the ball through the middle brought down. Denis charging on down the left with the ball forwards into Halford, Daniels lunging in to challenge for Colchester outside the box. Halford coming right with the ball forwards for Hudson to clip a cross into the box, cut out by Gamble cleared by Roome for a throw in.

Colchester defender, Niamh Gamble.

High on the right Clarke up with Hudson the cross lofted into the area cut out again by Gamble. The hosts attempting to break Vinton seeing the ball down on halfway forwards for Morgan but the Panther’s back line holds it’s line catching her offside. Colchester making a change brining off their captain, Cassie Craddock-Ball coming off the armband passed to Morgan who drops into a midfield role with Emily Ager coming on to lead the line.

The Panthers are pushing hard for a goal pressing players on the defence on halfway, leaving gaps to exploit, the ball lifts over the top for Hudson to chase down into the area, Roome in close defending for Colchester, Hudson appealing for a hand ball as the ball is cleared for a corner on the right. The hosts launch a counter attack Morgan carrying the ball into midfield lifting it out Williams on the left charging forwards, sends a cross into the area, cut out by Burling.

The Panthers angry as they give away a free-kick centrally, Williams sweeping it out to Morgan on the right up the line delivers a vicious cross into the six yard box, Kitchen with a brave save down smartly to gather the ball into her body with Ager closing in! The visitors looking to get the ball forwards quickly with less than 10 minutes on the clock a high ball forwards dealt with by Gamble for Colchester.

Danielle Ware on the attack for the Panthers

Kitchen playing her kick out from the back straight into Vinton 20 yards out right of the D, starts to close her down, Vinton thinking to play Ager clear on the right, the opportunity missed as the offside flag goes up. The Panthers getting wound up a offside decision from a throw in on the right going against them as the ball is headed goal wards. Incensed the referee calls Halford over for a word, looking to calm things down. Winning another throw on the right high up the pitch, little up to take it has a long throw in her armoury launching the ball into the area headed away by Gamble, Colchester look to break Vinton and Ager up top but the latter strays offside.

Panthers defender, Aimee Burling

The arguments with the referee continuing, Ali pushes things too far saying something she shouldn’t which results in her being yellow carded and sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes, leaving the Panther’s down to 10. Vinton making way for Greenleaf for Colchester. All action the Panthers determined to press forwards despite their disadvantage, Clarke seeing the ball into her feet off a free-kick on halfway right outside the box, turns well off her marker to drag a shot wide of the right post.

 

Pushed up Kitchen has to come sliding in to win the ball inside the opposition half to stop a potential Colchester counter attack. Williams coming back to help defend as Halford and Hudson combine on the right for the Panthers. Pressing bodies forwards the Panthers are leaving themselves vulnerable to the counter attack.

Hayley Halford

GOAL! The ball is cleared up to the halfway line, Ager up top with Morgan, the former seeing the ball down knocking in into Morgan who has Dodd on her shoulder, charges forwards looks to be hauled down by Dodd, players and spectators alike thinking play has been stopped for a free-kick but no play goes on the ball loose on the right Ager sees the keeper well off her line and strikes it over her to roll on into the empty goal beyond, a little confusion follows as Colchester celebrate, the ball is placed on the centre circle for the restart, the goal stands Colchester doubling their lead in the closing minutes of the match 2-0.

Emily Ager doubling Colchester’s lead

 Then all chaos breaks loose, Dodd is summoned over to the referee, clearly something has been said and she is shown a straight red card, sent off. But thing’s escalate as the Panther’s bench gets involved the referee rushing over more yellow cards issued to the manager. The visitors far from happy but have crossed the line with the official, a fiery end to what has been a thrilling contest.

Molly Dodd red carded for the Panthers

The Panthers to see the match out with 9 on the pitch. Colchester pumped up themselves having struggled to get a result against the Panthers seeing a victory in their sights. Williams pushing on with the ball up the left wing can only find the keeper with the through ball into the area.

The visitors are not going to sit back, even with 9 are focused on attack, Halford combining with Walters as they take the ball right, Gamble tackling for the hosts. Into stoppage time the Panthers winning a free-kick deep on the left inside the Colchester half, everyone bar the goalkeeper up Clarke to delivery a good ball in bounces though the six yard box, out wide past the far post.

Little up for another long throw high on the right up into the area, Clarke looking to bring it down off her chest right of goal turn to let fly with a shot, isn’t given the room as the Colchester defence launch it clear.

Full time Colchester United Women 2-0 She can Play Panthers

 Colchester are ecstatic as they celebrate the win having had some tough games with She Can Play Panthers so far this season, getting the 3 points, moving above them into 2nd spot in their premier Division table, with a game still in hand on leaders Hashtag United Women Reserves the gap move 3 points as they were held to a 2-2 at Brentwood Town Women. The title race still wide open. She can Play Panthers winning streak coming to an end in somewhat controversial fashion, but they nevertheless have a game in hand on Hashtag too, just 4 points off the lead, still all to play for. An enjoyable game from the Essex Women’s Premier Division, the Panthers starting the 2nd half like the first coming out strong pushing players on in attack looking to get an early leveller and no doubt push for a winner themselves came up against a determined Colchester defence, created chances, forcing saves from the keeper and clearances off the line, felt they should have had a penalty and as the decisions seemed to mount up against them let their frustration get the better of them finishing the game with 9 on the pitch with one sent off and another sin binned, Colchester going on to double their advantage fighting for the 3 points.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to chose the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as per normal isn’t a easy call to make several contenders out there this afternoon on both sides and could have gone either way in the finish. Performances of note include for She Can Play Panthers, Aimee Burling at the back, produced a number of key tackles and blocks to deny Colchester throughout the match. Harriet Hudson working hard on the flank looking to get on with the ball set up chances for her teammates. Evie Clarke strong on the ball making some determined runs out wide and through the middle. Molly Dodd getting about well in the middle of the park with some great forward passing. For Colchester, Lindsey Morgan used the channels well getting into some good positions looking to draw out defenders create space for others to run into. Ruby Vinton lively coming on from the bench first half getting hold of the ball looking to take it too the Panther’s defence scoring the opener. Jacqueline Craddock-Ball, with some good runs on the ball in the final 3rd. Tahlia Roome get forwards well down the left linking up with the attack and coming back to help in defence. The defence itself with a dogged performance, goalkeeper, Owen Hoskin producing a number of saves, Learna Daniels getting in a number of challenges as did Niamh Gamble making several crucial interceptions and getting in to close the ball down. A close call but todays Player of the Match is Colchester midfielder, Thalia Adams, working hard in the middle of the park to win the ball back, covered the ground helping out in defence to, came forwards with purpose linked up well with the attackers.

 An eventful, but enjoyable game from the Essex Women’s Premier Division, lively between two sides that will push hard all the way to the end of the season to challenge Hashtag United Women Reserves for the title. A frustrating afternoon for the Panthers but they have had a strong start with their new woman’s side and are an emerging force in the county. Colchester joyous after finally beating their opponents continue to build upon their debut season. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Sprowston FC Women v Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

Sunday 16th February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Feeling unwell last Sunday so forced to sit one out, so keen to get back to it this weekend, staying in Norfolk for some action from Norfolk Women’s Division One, unfortunately my original game was called off but a planned early kick-off gave me time to get to an alternative and across the board there were some great match ups so opted to go to Blue Boar Lane to watch 2nd placed Sprowston FC Women as they took on Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves in 3rd.

  Been an interesting campaign so far in Norfolk Women’s Division One, proving to be competitive, Bungay Town Ladies the defending champions, with a 100% record to date, just 6 games on the board though have a busy ew months ahead of them, Sprowston FC Women 2nd also unbeaten from their 7 matches too have games to catch up on. Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves in 3rd have got their games in and as a result find themselves right up there despite a managerial change, can they stay with the other challengers will be intriguing to see, games in hand don’t necessarily mean points on the board.

  Sprowston FC Women under new management this season with, player Lois Irving stepping into the role, initially planned to be on the side lines but tempted back out onto the field for another season, partly due to necessity with the side undergoing a bit of a rebuild, several player moving on from the season have brought in some talented youngsters from Dussindale & Hellesdon’s U16 side. Katie Fray re-joining having had a spell in the ERWFL with Thetford Town Ladies. Lauren Bumstead was with Mulbarton last season. Goalkeeper, Tyla Cole dual signed with Dussindale & Hellesdon.    

Finishing runners-up to Bungay Town Ladies last season, have hit the ground running this time around unbeaten in their 7 league games played too date with 5 wins and 2 draws. Have been a victim to the poor weather seeing a number of postponements. Lois Wright leading the goal scoring charts so far with 7 from her 6 appearances, while Rosie Milligan has 6 from 9 matches. Sprowston boast a good youth set up and have produced some good players and sides throughout the season’s.

  Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves, have seen the management role change hands 3 times this season with Dave Skipp stepping down from the role, with a interim coming, now John Vincent is in charge of the side that has a strong pool to call upon with useful experience playing in the county leagues and above. Having made a poor start to the league campaign losing 5 of their opening 6 matches, the season has been turned on it’s head as things settle down management wise, as the club went on a 6 game unbeaten run winning 4 and drawing 2 to catapult them all the way to the top of the table.

  Have goals throughout the side, Rebecca Waters coming to the club, netting 9 from 8 games top scorer. Lucy Kean always amongst the goals too for the club, has 7 so far this season. Midfielder, Charlotte Groves, has 6 to her names while Mary-Anne Hoy has scored 4 goals. Amongst the title challengers Mulbarton’s Reserves are also into the last 4 of the League Plate competition. A high scoring encounter between Sprowston and Mulbarton in the reverse fixture back in September, 10 goals between them with Sprowston coming out on top 6-4.

 The Sprowston Sports & Social club on Blue Boar Lane the venue for this afternoons game. The social club itself open serving hot and cold drinks. Leading out to the pitch beyond. Well used with a game taking place just that morning, a little cut up and patchy, offering good width, standing viewing all round. The snow the previous evening cleared away leaving behind a sunny, cloudy mix with a distinct chill in the air when the clouds obscured the sun.

Sprowston FC Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Emma Webster, Lois Irving, Lauren Bumstead (C), Claire Weekes, Isla McKee, Holly Whayman, Katie Fray, Katie Moore, Rosie Milligan & Lois Wright. Subs – Lola Hallam.

Sprowston FC Women

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves starting XI – Kirstie Andrews, Aneliese Smith, Faye Bye, Bryony Knights, Tasha Williams (C), Charlotte Groves, Jade Telfer, Sophie Jermy, Mary-Anne Hoy, Megan Anderton & Lucy Keen. Subs – Tilly-Rose Dade, Mia Wilkinson, Steph Leek, Ella Cattermole & Nicole Sheldrake.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Tasha Williams and Lauren Bumstead with today’s referee Dan Knowles

Sprowston with a few players missing today, down to the bare bones naming just the one on the bench, whereas Mulbarton could name five substitutes on theirs especially useful with roll off roll on substitutes. It’s Mulbarton to kick-off the 1st half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, with blue shorts and socks. Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange coloured shirts with black shorts and orange socks. The ball played central, Sprowston immediately in to close it down, Katie Fray getting stuck in looking to release Lois Wright as she makes an attacking move, Jade Telfer getting the ball back for Mulbarton out to Sophie Jermy on the right, fires a diagonal ball in towards the top of the D 25 yards out attacker Lucy Kean looking to get it under control hit on the turn, slips as she pulls the trigger screwing her attempt wide of the left post.

Mulbarton striker, Lucy Kean

Sprowston bring the ball on through the middle with pace Fray out to Wright pulling into the left channel, controls top of the area, drops her shoulder and makes a move to go inside, Mulbarton’s captain, Tasha Williams getting her challenge in to see the ball diverted out to the left for a throw. From the throw in Fray looks to get the ball down into her feet left of the D, snatches at her shot, runs wide of the near post.

A lively start to the game both sides looking to get the ball up field quickly, the pitch not suitable to an intricate passing game, that sees play turned around quickly Mulbarton pushing players on Jermy right side driving a cross into the top of the area, Sprowston captain, Lauren Bumstead getting something on it trapping the ball diverting it out to her far post, the defence racing back to clear, Mary-Anne Hoy running in from that side looking to close the ball down blocked back in towards goal, Tyla Cole down sharply on her line to get her gloves around the ball.

The hosts build on the right Emma Webster on for Katie Moore driving down the line squares a cross into the box, Williams tracking back getting in the block to cut the ball out near side turn it behind for the corner kick. Curled into the near post, Mulbarton win the header the ball cleared.

Sprowston’s, Katie Moore

Charlotte Groves bringing the ball on through the middle for Mulbarton going left forwards into Kean, looks to send Hoy through on the overlap, Moore back for Sprowston getting her foot on the ball to clear upfield. Mulbarton pushed up one end, space opens up for Sprowston to attack on the left. Moore surging on to the by-line cuts the cross back into the top of the six yard box, Wright there unmarked, goalkeeper Kirstie Andrews starts to come to close her down the striker rushes her shot pulls it narrowly wide of the far post.

Holly Whayman on the ball for Sprowston with Fray through the middle lifted out to Wright wide on the left, controls coming inside to send a cross in towards the fat post, Bryony Knights up well to head clear for the visitors, Sprowston pressing getting it back top of the area a shot racing in wide of the right post. Rosie Milligan taking the ball on towards the box right of the D, Knights tackling to deny the shooting chance. Niggly challenges from both sides the pitch wet and heavy in places.

Mulbarton’s Meg Anderton

Meg Anderton for Mulbarton, pulls out to the right to receive the ball from Jermy, angles a long cross in towards the far post, Hoy making the run, just a little too much on it out for a goal kick. Anderton moving well behind Kean looking to link up with hoy and Jermy on the flanks, coming over to the left sends Hoy through to deliver a cross, cut out by Sprowston’s Claire Weekes at the near post. Telfer getting hold of the ball 35 yards out lines up a strike, on target but straight into Cole’s gloves.

Mulbarton midfielder, Jade Telfer

Weekes bringing the ball out from the back on Sprowston’s left plays the pass inside for Milligan who turns looking to sweep a cross out to the right for Moore to attack, Faye Bye intercepts well for Mulbarton heading the ball clear. Hoy bursting up the left for the visitors, Isla McKee getting back at her to tackle send the ball out for a corner kick. A vicious ball in curled into the six yard box, knocked down towards goal, Cole again getting down sharply to grab hold of the ball saving it on the line. Mulbarton appealing it had crossed the line but nothing doing.

Sprowston launching a quick counter attack, Milligan sending the ball long though to Wright up top breaking in behind the defence central, Andrews racing out to the top of her area to close her down the striker taking it past her to the right of goal looking to slide it into the empty net, Knights though recovering fantastically for Mulbarton throwing herself into the slide to block the shot turn it behind for a corner kick. All action the corner clipped into the top of the area met by Fray looking to head the ball back in towards goal, Andrews right behind it grabbing hold of the ball.

Mulbarton’s turn to have a corner out on the left, players up from the back Anderton to play the ball in near side defended comes back to Anderton to angle another cross into the area, this time it’s Moore who hooks the ball clear for the hosts. Both sides working hard to win the ball, the game scrappy at times, fouls given away, Telfer sliding in to win the ball from Whayman, Jermy looking to take it on right side, tackled by Irving.

Williams on for Jermy though the middle for Mulbarton fires it forwards into Kean 25 yards out top of the D, lets it run past her with Anderton making a good run beyond her taking on the shot from 20 yards out blasts her strike wide of the right post. Kean battles for a corner for Mulbarton on the left. Swung into the near post Weekes winning it for Sprowston. Webster combining with Moore out on the right for Sprowston the cross clipped into the box, intercepted by Knights.

Play continues to be end to end Kean coming right with Anderton, looking to cross the ball in central, cut out by Irving. A free-kick to the visitors in the middle, fired long towards the far post, Hoy can’t do much with it, but does well to win a corner off a defender. Plenty up in the box for a Mulbarton corner, swung in near side the hosts scramble it away.

GOAL! Sprowston have pressed forwards in attack on the right the move breaking down Mulbarton get the ball forwards quickly into the left channel for Kean to chase, the covering defender given a shout from Cole as she comes racing out of her area trying to get to the ball before, doesn’t with Kean lunging in to meet it knocking it past the keeper from 20 yards out, ready to celebrate… but has to wait for the ball to roll into the bottom corner, 0-1.

Lucy Kean congratulated by her teammates opening the scoring for Mulbarton.

Kean opening the scoring just past the half hour mark. Sprowston on the attack from the restart Whayman forwards into Milligan top of the area tries to force her way past Knights to get in on goal, the defender having none of it the pair going down, the decision going Knights’ way. Mulbarton coming left Anderton on for Hoy up the line attempts to put an angled shot in at the near post, Cole can see it bounce wide of the mark.

The free-kicks being given away both sides unhappy with decisions such is the tempo they are playing at. In a dangerous position 25 yards out central, Milligan over it goes for the shot, on target by not troubling the keeper.

Sprowston with a change bringing on Lola Hallam for Webster. Mulbarton looking to be direct, Kean the target up top, Anderton moving well off her. Bumsted does well at the back for Sprowston as she deals with Kean one on one as she runs onto a through ball from Groves. Smith going on the overlap up the right for Mulbarton lifting a cross from wide into Anderton inside the box near side gets her foot up to try and turn the ball goal-wards, strikes Bumsted as she goes to block deflected of her for a corner kick. Curled in near side, cut out by Whayman for the hosts.

 GOAL! Mulbarton looking to finish the 1st half strong into the closing moments, Jermy up to support Kean on the right, forcing a corner kick. The delivery fired in central knocked back in towards the far post area players looking to attack, Telfer and Hoy the ball struck goal wards, striking a defender as they go to block not enough the ball finding the back of the net to see the visitors double their lead on the stroke of half-time. 

Mulbarton celebrate as they double their lead on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Sprowston FC Women 0-2 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

  Both sides staying out on the field for the half-time interval. Mulbarton the happier doubling their advantage on the stroke of half-time. Both sides looking to be direct has been all action, little pause in play (except for tying boot laces). Mulbarton pushing players on using the flanks well, Meg Anderton moving off Kean linking up the midfield and attack, creating chances. Sprowston winning the ball back, niggly fouls on both sides, have created some good opportunities of their own a blow to go 2 down when they did and will be looking for a positive start to the 2nd half. 

A quick turn around for the 2nd half, for myself too as having been in between the dugouts on one side, the low sun as welcome as it is was going to play havoc with the camera so over to the opposite and as better as it was had to give up the sun for a chilly patch of shade, roll on summer. No changes for Sprowston, Mulbarton bring on Steph Leeks and Mia Wilkinson for Smith and Bye at full back. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway, immediately closed down in the middle, Fray battling for the ball wins it back on for Milligan right on for Wright who tracks inside forcing her way into the box, takes on the shot lacks the power to trouble Andrews.

  Sprowston pressing the ball well on the left wing, Fray up with Wright, the striker looking for force her way through into the box, coming together with Leek picking up a knock, needing to come off Smith back into the action. Moore linking up with Wright as the hosts build again in the left, 20 out the striker makes a move to drive towards the corner of the box, the tackle comes in, heavy contact as Wright goes to strike the ball, a painful blow to her ankle, the free-kick is awarded. Wright down for a few moments some concern but thankfully is ok to continue. Irving over the set-piece on the left corner of the area a dangerous position looks to lift the ball in towards the far post, Telfer defending for Mulbarton sending the ball out for a corner on the left.

Tasha Williams with Lois Wright

 GOAL! The ball whipped in across the top of the six yard box, attacked by Fray, power on her header drives the ball in to smash down off the crossbar, bouncing down, Andrews getting down to beat it away, even as Sprowston turn to appeal that the ball was over the line, comes back to Irving outside the box left of goal, lashes her strike over. Sprowston though adamant the ball was over the line, the referee going over to consult with the clubs linesman in this case one of the Mulbarton substitutes, and points to the spot signalling a goal, Sprowston getting a goal back early in the 2nd half, 1-2.

Katie Fray powers her header towards goal to smash down off the crossbar.

Sprowston appeal thinking the ball crossed the line

  Kean bringing the ball away down the left for Mulbarton, played back up the line to Groves, clips it into the top of the area for Anderton, Irving challenging the ball going behind for a corner kick. Anderton swinging the corner into the area, Groves central knocking it back out to her, from the angle Anderton look to float the ball in over the keeper, Cole, though getting her gloves up to pluck the ball down into her body. 

  Wright driving with the ball at her feet, in off the left wing, Smith and Williams in to close her down the ball behind for a corner. Whipped in across the six yard box to the far post by Irving, is knocked down back in towards goal, Andrews there to scoop it up. End to end once again with both sides determined to get the ball into there attackers quickly, Telfer on for Kean moving into the right channel, Bumstead closing her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw. 

Katie Fray holding off Jade Telfer

  The visitors appealing for a hand ball as the ball is lifted into the top of the area, Weekes going to head it down, does brush her arm as it falls but nothing intentional about it. Sprowston pushed up on the right pressing the ball, McKee with Milligan, the latter dropping her shoulder coming in off the flank 25 yards out, clips a shot up in towards goal, Andrews right behind it to claim. A battling contest played at a decent tempo, Irving getting on with the ball left side sending the pass through to Milligan up top, looks to spin in behind, Williams close on her getting her tackle in top of the area.

Holly Whayman bringing the ball forwards for Sprowston

  Telfer coming off for Mulbarton, on comes Nicole Sheldrake with around an hour gone, Moore with a burst of pace on the left pushing the ball up to Wright, tries to get past Williams unhappy as the foul goes against her giving Sprowston another free-kick on the corner of the area. Irving to send it in beyond the far post players queuing up, Weekes getting her head on the ball sending it back in over the crossbar.

  A vital interception from Bumstead at the back as Mulbarton look to turn play around rapidly, Jermy on the move through the middle looking to send Kean in with the through ball, Sprowston’s captain getting her foot out to cut out the pass top of the D. Both sides are getting frustrated with a few decisions, such is the nature of the game both wanting to get on quickly, Sprowston feeling they can get another goal, Mulbarton intent of restoring their 2 goal cushion. 

  Lively as Irving takes the ball forwards on the left playing a diagonal pass in central to Fray who helps it on for Milligan out on the right, from the angle drills a shot in to the near post, low, Andrews has the angle covered down to save. Knights defends for the visitors as Whayman looks to pick out Milligan in the right channel. 

 GOAL! Mulbarton press players on Groves on for Jermy right, puts the return pass into Groves as she continues her run out to the right, whipping a pacy cross into the six yard box, Kean rushing in at the far post looking to get a touch as the keeper goes down trying to grab it, both miss as it flies on out out to the left, Mulbarton keeping hold of the ball pulling players out of position the cross clipped back in central at Kean quickly drops off her favourably for Jermy to steal in unmarked to stab it wide of the keeper to make it 1-3.

Sophie Jermy firing Mulbarton into a 3-1 lead

  Mulbarton restoring their 2 goal cushion with a little over 15 minutes left to play, Anderton having picked up a knock minutes before, coming off for the visitors with Ella Cattermole coming on to join Kean up top. Groves getting on with the ball through the middle linking up with Jermy going right, Bumstead diving in to tackle the ball back central with Sheldrake 30 plus yards out, has a go from range, straight at the keeper. 

 Into the final 15 minutes, Sprowston not sitting back, Milligan bringing the ball down right outside the box dropping it into Wright, drives into the area, Wilkinson tackling for Mulbarton, the loose ball coming to Fray running onto it 25 yards out blasts her attempt over the bar. From a corner the ball comes out to Whayman to have a crack from range, on target but again straight forwards for the keeper. Hallam back on for Sprowston as they send Weekes up to to join the attack.

 GOAL! The ball played into Weekes inside the box from the right looks to turn move left, Williams going with her sliding in to tackle, Weekes going down, the referee pointing to the spot, Mulbarton furious as Sprowston have the penalty. It’s Irving to take, no mistake as she goes for power drilling it to the keepers right low into the bottom corner 2-3 game on.

Lois Irving fires home the penalty for Sprowston.

 Mulbarton already unhappy about conceding the penalty break down the left, bodies forwards the cross stabbed into the area, appeals go up straight away for a hand ball…

 GOAL! Even as the appeals are going on one end Sprowston counter attack the ball clipped on through the middle for Wright to attack, running in behind, Andrews has to come can’t get there as Wright lifts the ball over her to bounce into the goal beyond, turns to celebrate as she fires the hosts back onto level terms 3-3.

Lois Wright jubilant after levelling the scores for Sprowston.

 Tempers overheating Mulbarton naturally furious to have conceding the equaliser having had a strong appeal turned down at the other end, comments going too far for the referee going over to the bench to show a card, have a word with the manager and supporters. Into the final 5 minutes the action on the pitch continues Groves looking to play Jermy through up top, Cole gives the call to her defence coming out to deal with the ball. 

Charlotte Groves sending the ball on for Mulbarton

  Whayman clearing the ball for Sprowston, up to Wright wins her side a corner on the left, players up curled into the near side, Weekes heading it on into the mix, Fray looking to get it down wriggle free to unleash a shot, Mulbarton snapping at the ball taking it away from her, Milligan putting it wide of the right post from the top of the D. Sprowston with their tails up, Mulbarton rattled needing to calm down, Jermy firing the ball into Sheldrake up top, can’t quite get it under control as Irving moves in to close her down.

  Hallam getting her foot out to cut out the cross from Wilkinson as Mulbarton press down the left the ball behind for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! The corner clipped into the area initially cleared by Fray back out to the left, retrieved by Mulbarton with Sheldrake from the angle looking to curl a shot in under the crossbar, Cole stretching to reach it back on her line, plucked down, but not claimed in the six yard box, Kean looking to attack it, Bumsted blocking as it’s Mulbarton’s turn to appeal that the ball from Sheldrake was over the line, the referee calling it, awarding the goal Mulbarton retaking the lead in the closing stages 3-4.

Nicole Sheldrake’s ball in towards goal judged to have crossed the line to see Mulbarton retake the lead

 Definitely a heated finish to the game, his time Sprowston unhappy having clawed their way back into the game to concede late on. One last push from the hosts Whayman lifting the ball on into the top of the area, Weekes jumping for it brushes off her head to fall to Wright, left of goal, Groves back to challenge clear the ball for a corner. Seconds left, the keeper up from the back for Sprowston, but they can’t make the opportunity count as Mulbarton come out top in a 7 goal thriller. 

Full time Sprowston FC Women 3-4 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

  What a game, 17 goals between the sides in their 2 league matches. Mulbarton edging it this time, ending Sprowston’s unbeaten run in the process and coupled with Bungay draw at home to Aylsham, return to the top of Division One. Leading 2-0 at the break, Sprowston looking for a positive start to the 2nd half getting a goal back early. Mulbarton dug in both sides giving away fouls unhappy with some decisions but the game remained at a high tempo, the visitors getting clear to restore their 2 goal advantage. Sprowston kept going into the last quarter hour winning a penalty, the broke from a Mulbarton attack to level the scores. Mulbarton frustrated found the resolve to dig in and get forwards to retake the lead to win the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Another tough call with several contenders on both sides, for Sprowston, Claire Weekes and Lauren Bumstead put in some vital tackles at the back, especially as the game became more stretched in the 2nd period. Lois Irving too putting in some good tackles bringing the ball on a played some useful set-pieces. Rosie Milligan coming in off the right linking up will with the midfield setting up chances. Lois Wright working hard up top driving at the defence getting the equaliser. Katie Fray strong from midfield using the ball well linking up with Milligan and Wright up top. For Mulbarton, Bryony Knights was superb in defence making a number of important tackles and blocks. Jade Telfer in front of the defence getting stuck in to win the ball, Sophie Jermy out on the right taking the ball on used it well linking up with the attack and midfield runners. Meg Anderton showing great movement working hard up top behind Kean coming out wide to receive the ball create opportunities, edging it though is midfielder Charlotte Groves, won the ball well in the middle, getting it into the attacking players quickly and making some useful runs through the middle.

  An action packed game with a little controversy mingled in, played at a good tempo, not an easy pitch to play on, Division one is certainly proving to be competitive this season and there is still alot of football to be played. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details this afternoon, good to catch up with both. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies v Martham FC Ladies

Sunday 2nd February

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

Love to get up and down the league across the East to watch my football and having started the year with action from the FAWNL and regional leagues it’s time to take in some county league football with a game from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, with newly formed, Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Martham FC Ladies.

The Norfolk Women’s County football leagues expanding to 3 Divisions this season with a host of new sides entering an adult team in the competition. The east of Norfolk and the coastal area around Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft in Suffolk seeing a host of new sides formed in recent seasons.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC reforming a ladies side this campaign, the Lowestoft based club having previously had a side 7 years or so ago. The highlight of that time going all the way to the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final and played at Ipswich’s Portman Road stadium. A new era for women’s football at Walmer Road. Recruiting players from Great Yarmouth and the surrounding area with useful experience joining what is a new look league has been a mixed start so far off to a blistering start with 3 wins on the bounce all away from home before losing the next three. A couple of postponements to start 2025, got back to winning way away to Red Rose with a 3-1 win last weekend and with 7 of their remaining 9 matches at home will be looking to build some momentum going into the 2nd half of the season. Captain Maddie-Me Kerrison the top scorer so far with 5 goals.

  Martham FC Ladies entering a women’s team into the NWGFL for the first time last season, a club with a strong youth section, boys and girls have female teams from U10’s to U16’s. Joining a large 13 strong Division Two was a baptism of fire for the new women’s side finding it tough losing 9 on the spin before final securing their first 3 points in February, kept at it picking up 3 more wins and a draw towards the end of the campaign to give them something to build on. Expanding to a 3rd division last season to better match the sides Martham are all the better for that experience bringing in new faces and experience, a county cup win to open the season, were to lose their opening 2 league games but haven’t looked back six winning the next  on the spin to climb up the table into 3rd pressure the leaders Brundall Bolts Women at the top. Lily Bulloch bringing goals to the side netting 19 so far from 10 appearances. Laurel Chambers with 6 goals too from her 10 games.

  Kirkley & Pakefield playing at the Recreation Ground on Walmer Road. This play was always a buzz of activity when I visited in the past with plenty of youth football going on, and pleasing to see nothing has changed now, pitches both grass and artificial leading to the main stadium itself. The clubhouse and changing facilities in between, the bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food and drink. The weather has not been great to start the year, so good to see a bit of sun if a little chilly still a frosty start but clear now with the game to take place on the 3G pitch a good sized playing surface with standing viewing on one side, the sun beginning to drop behind that side.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies starting XI – Paige Curtis, Daphne Siracusa, Sasha Friel, Abbie Pogmore, Nyla McKay, Sophie Barber Boakes, Scarlet Miller, Karina Filippus, Lashaya Marnell, Emily Clarke & Maddie-Mae Kerrison (C). Subs – Danielle Ashley, Paige Sterry & Niamh Howard.

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

 Martham FC Ladies starting XI – Laura Barnard, Ella Saunders, Cerys Speak, Baelie Fairbrother, Lorella Ashcroft, Paige Searle, Melissa Anderson, Emily Dennington, Laurel Chambers, Ellie Jade Nekrews & Lily Bulloch. Subs – Bethany Shearing (C), Jessica Pasco & Scarlett Colby.

Martham FC Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Maddie-Mae Kerrison captaining Kirkley & Pakefield alongside Martham’s Melissa Anderson with todays match official Wlodzimierz Szczerba before kick-off.

A late switch for Martham with captain Bethany Shearing starting on the bench, with the hosts, Kirkley & Pakefield to kick-off the game, wearing blue and white shirts with blue shorts and socks. Martham lined up opposite wearing green coloured shirts and socks with black shorts. Scarlet Miller from the circle playing the ball back to Abbie Pogmore in defence, the ball launched up the middle with captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the line, Paige Searle intercepting the pass for Martham, setting up a counter attack firing a long pass into the right wing for Laurel Chambers to attack, Sasha Friel coming across to defend across her run to shield the ball out for a goal kick.

Martham making a positive start pushing players up capitalising on a loose pass at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield on the right side, Chambers getting onto the ball 25 yards out rolling it inside to striker, Lily Bulloch she takes on the shot from outside the box angled in low to the right post, goalkeeper Paige Curtis down low keep it out runs behind for a corner kick. The in swinging corner dropping at the near post cut out by Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus, not cleared however players closing in on the ball the final touch taking it out of play for a goal kick.

Martham striker, Lily Bulloch

Emily Dennington with pace bursting away with the ball at her feet on the left flank as Martham press well in the final third, going to the by-line checks back inside to feed the ball in across the top of the area, Bulloch going for it, Daphne Siracusa, stretching out a leg for Kirkley & Pakefield defending the take the ball away from the attacker, loose in the six yard box in front of goal, the hosts living dangerously as they scramble the ball behind for a corner on the right. Can see this one curl safely over the crossbar.

Kirkley & Pakefield riding out some early pressure look to launch an attack Miller sending the ball on for Kerrison on half way she has Lashaya Marnell breaking down the right looks to send the ball on into her path too much on it however, Lorella Ashcroft coming to close Marnell down can see the ball safely out of play. Roles reversed moments later as Marnell out wide right turns provider playing the ball on for Kerrison as the attacker pulls out to the wing to receive the ball, Ashcroft sliding in to take the ball out for a throw in.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Lashaya Marnell

The game opening up as Kirkley & Pakefield begin to get some joy going forwards he pass on for Sophie Barber Boakes to take on down the left wing comes back inside to play the ball into the top of the area, Emily Clarke looking to hit it first time opening up her body to, send the ball up into the air over the keeper and sees it cannon against the crossbar! Martham launching the ball out of their box.

Kerrison seeing the ball into her feet on the halfway line turning to play it out to the right for Clarke ahead of her driving into the right channel, forcing her way into the area, Ashcroft closing her down the defender does well to keep Clarke away from the ball see it out for a goal kick. The ball rarely still both sides looknig to turn play around, tackles flying in, Melissa Anderson sending the ball out to Dennington on the left for Martham, looks to burst away, a timely foot in from Marnell seeing the attack snuffed out.

Marnell battling for the ball in the middle for Kirkley & Pakefield, wins it and plays it forwards into Clarke 30 yards out in the right channel has Kerrison breaking in behind the defence out wide, Martham hold their line well though to catch the Kirkley & Pakefield captain, offside.

Both side are preferring to play the ball into the channels rather than attack through the middle, have willing runners Searle breaking up play in the middle for Martham put to the right, Ellie Jade Nekrews putting it forwards for Chambers, Siracusa getting her foot in for the hosts to put the ball out for a throw.

Competitive in the middle, Miller and Filippus getting stuck in for Kirkley & Pakefield played forwards into Clarke sends it out to the left with Kerrison pulling wide, taking the ball on down the flank, Cerys Speak moving in to tackle sending the ball out of play for the throw. Several foul throws with the referee picking up on improper foot control when releasing the ball, both sides penalised.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Karina Filippus

Chambers escapes with the ball at her feet on the right for Martham as the visitors look to turn defence into attack running on attempts to slide the threaded ball on into the area for Bulloch making a central run, Curtis sharp out of her six yard box racing out to gather the ball safely into her gloves. Pogmore getting hold of the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield playing a fantastic ball forwards into the right channel for Clarke to get hold of powers clear of her marker looking to get into the box strike her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner, the Martham defence racing back on the cover, it’s Baelie Fairbrother, who puts in the block to see the shot defended.

Abbie Pogmore winning the ball at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield

Kirkley & Pakefield’s turn to build some momentum Marnell out to Nyla McKay right side gets on down the wing, both Clarke and Kerrison moving over to that side of the pitch to support her the trio looking to combine passes force there way past the Martham defence, both Anderson and Searle back to defend no way through. Kirkley & Pakefield making a change bring off Clarke sending Daniel Ashley on.

Lively as Kirkley & Pakefield work the ball well down the flanks winning a throw on the right into Miller, turns on the ball to send the cross into the box, cut out by Fairbrother at the near post, the visitors launching a rapid counter as Dennington is put away on the left burst towards the box, attempts to lay the ball on into the area for Chambers making a run cross the D to receive the pass, Curtis again out well to get hold of the ball before she can get a touch.

Martham keeping hold of the ball in the final third, clipped forwards into Chambers positioned left of the D 20 out look to turn the ball over her shoulder into the area. blocked by Pogmore, not clear, Bulloch getting onto it central pushing it out to the right for Nekrews on the by line right of goal close in tries to fire it past the keeper into the central position inside the six yard box, Curtis getting down to smother the ball.

Both sides enjoying spells of pressure inviting errors from the opposition, Anderson on the ball for Martham moving left attempts to play it through the middle into the box for Bulloch pulling off the defence, a little too much on the pass reaches the keeper first. Dennington breaking on with the ball at her feet on the left for the visitors taking the ball to the by-line outside the box held up. checks back inside to lay the pass back into Bulloch positioned left corner, goes to curl a shot in towards goal, drops invitingly into the keepers gloves.

Anderson strong on the ball through the middle, pushing on, Filippus getting in the blocking tackle 25 yards out, the ball not under control, Anderson looks to keep it alive stabbing it on for Bulloch breaking into the area, Pogmore with a vital interception. Pogmore in well again at the back to cut the ball out for Kirkley & Pakefield, carries it into the middle, before sending the pass into Kerrison peeling into the left channel takes the ball on before coming back inside 20 yards out to curl in a shot towards go from the corner of the box, but like Bulloch’s attempt up the other end places the ball straight into Laura Barnard’s gloves.

Kirkley & Pakefield captain, Maddie-Mae Kerrison

Clarke coming back on for Kirkley & Pakefield for Ashley. Dennington’s pace on the left causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few problems as she burst away on the wing cuts her cross back into the top of the area, over Bulloch central, Siracusa stretching for it stopping the ball running through to Chambers, down into the area however, Bulloch goes to stab her foot at the ball 10 yards out sends it away over the bar.

Martham’s Laurel Chambers

Half a hour gone has been plenty of action, the Kirkley & Pakefield defence pressed back Clarke and Kerrison are up on halfway looking to receive the ball, Clarke bringing a Marnell pass under control has Kerrison making a move to go left, the attacker seeing the ball rolled into her path shapes to go wide before coming back inside to let loose from all of 35 yards out the ball running wide of the near post.

Friel doing the defending at the back for Kirkley & Pakefield getting across to put her foot in to tackle Bulloch as she attempts to get onto an Anderson ball threaded into the right channel. Anderson herself taking on the shot as the ball comes to her 20 yards out right of the Kirkley & Pakefield area blasts her strike wide past the far post.

Barber Boakes from the left sending the cross field pass into McKay 35 yards out inside right, no one moving to close her down she accepts the invitation to shoot, screws the ball wide of the right post. Dennington races on with the ball for Martham into the left corner at the by-line checks back well to fire a cross into the top of the area, Bulloch on the penalty spot looking to control it down off her chest and shoot, is closed down immediately by the Kirkley & Pakefield defence, an almighty scramble ensues with the ball somehow ending up in the keepers gloves.

Martham’s Emily Dennington

Is an open contest, Kirkley & Pakefield more often than not running the ball out wide lacking crossing options breaking from the middle of the park, Clarke going it alone on the right turns inside looking to take on Fairbrother top of the area, the defender with a good tackle to regain possession. The host get the ball back on the right, Marnell on for McKay a throw won high, Clarke seeing it into her feet turning into the area on the run goes to strike the ball with the outside of her boot, her shot lacking any power a simple gather for Barnard.

McKay getting a timely foot out to take the ball away from Bulloch for a throw out on the left, Bulloch after it to take a quick throw to try and set up Dennington to turn 25 yards out and run into the box, the ball there to be won as Friel comes out to close it down sees the pair collide in a nasty coming together that sees Dennington come off the worst. A pause in play as Dennington is treated, will be coming off regardless with captain, Bethany Shearing entering the action. Friel is shown a yellow card with Martham winning a free-kick out wide of the box 25 yards out to the left. Shearing over it goes for goal, pulls her attempt wide of the near post.

Miller getting in well to win the ball in front of the defence for Kirkley & Pakefield bringing it on trying to get her team going forwards. Into the closing stages of the first half Speak on the right playing the ball on for Nekrews up to Chambers brings the ball inside from the right looking to power her way forwards, sends it on through the middle for Bulloch, top of the D, Siracusa going with her getting a vital touch to take the ball out of her path.

Kirkley & Pakefield’s Daphne Siracusa

Half-time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 0-0 Martham FC Ladies

  Goalless at the break, a lively first half ending in stalemate, both sides with good opportunities to open the scoring. Martham getting off to a strong start applying the early pressure pushing the Kirkley & Pakefield defence back. The hosts coming back well however as the game opened up, competitive in the middle both looking to use the flanks, the hosts breaking well to hit the crossbar, shots in on target but not troubling either keeper, both enjoying good spells evenly matched no telling as to the outcome of the game as the sides ready for the 2nd half.

Both sides unchanged from the sides that ended the 2nd half, the sun lower now shade on one side of the pitch, Kirkley & Pakefield attacking with it in their eyes. It’s Martham to get the 2nd half underway the ball played back into defence, Barber Boakes left side presses well for Kirkley & Pakefield, players on to attack the ball inside the Martham half, Anderson back to help the defence winning possession back for the visitors.

Kirkley & Pakefield stop any advance into their half the pass into Marnell right some 25/30 yards out goes for goal her effort claimed by Barnard in the Martham goal. The hosts making a determined start to the 2nd half players pressed on to battle for the ball, Miller with Filippus in the middle lively…

Kirkley & Pakefield midfielder, Scarlet Miller

GOAL! That early pressure bringing the break through the ball won 25 yards out to the right of the D, played across the top of the box into the feet of Barber Boakes 20 yards out goes to strike the ball, her shot racing in on goal past the keeper before she can react, and in off the inside of the left post to open the scoring 1-0.

Sophie Barber Boakes shot going in off the post to open the scoring for Kirkley & Pakefield

Martham falling behind 4 minutes into the 2nd half, look to get on the attack from the restart Bulloch on the drive through the middle, brought down winning the free-kick. Shearing over the set-piece 25 yards out again lines up the effort on goal getting plenty of zip behind the ball but not on target as Curtis sees it sail past her left post.

Kirkley & Pakefield making a change with Clarke coming off up top to be replaced by Paige Sterry. The low sun causing a few issues for the Kirkley & Pakefield defenders trying to pick out a pass up top, (at least the excuse being peddled). Bulloch making several determined runs with the ball at her feet through the middle for Martham lifts it over the top for Chambers out on the right channel, Siracusa going with her for Kirkley & Pakefield does well in defence to get across Chambers to see the ball back safely into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Having scored Kirkley & Pakefield have taken their foot off the gas allowed Martham to press players on down the flanks, the ball carried inside from the right 25 yards out the diagonal pass is fed into the box with Nekrews stealing into the box from the left to meet it angling her first time effort back across the keeper into the bottom corner to level thing’s up 1-1. 

Ellie-Jay Nekrews equalises for Martham

The lead lasting just 4 minutes Kirkley & Pakefield needing to regroup, send the ball out to Barber Boakes attacking on their left flank drives inside looking to get into the area the ball knocked on for Sterry, right side of goal, Ashcroft closing her down the ball popping loose as Barber Boakes continues her run stabs it wide. Dennington coming back on for Martham goes into the back line replacing Ashcroft on the left. Scarlett Colby on too for Saunders.

Sophie Barber Boakes with Martham’s Cerys Speak

Chambers cutting inside from the right for Martham driven inside for Bulloch top of the D, Pogmore cutting it out well for Kirkley & Pakefield. Cleared to the right, Martham with numbers up regaining the ball look to return it back into the box, no advantage however play brought back for a late free-kick on the wing. Shearing dangerous with her set-piece deliveries dropping the ball in front of the keeper, another frantic scramble ensues in front of goal, no one getting a clear touch on the ball before the hosts wrestle it to safety.

Martham captain, Bethany Shearing

Nekrews with the ball at her feet on the left for Martham surging on inside hitting a strike on the run 25 yards out, frustrated to place her effort straight at the keeper. Martham with a quickly taken throw from Shearing on the right looking to play, Colby clear to attack inside the box, Curtis reacts quickly racing out to claim it for Kirkley & Pakefield.

Chambers skipping away with the ball out wide right for Martham delivering a looping cross into the near post, Curtis snatching hold of it with Colby closing her down. The game remains open both sides using the width of the pitch looking to stretch things, Speak lunging in to tackle Barber Boakes as she looks to turn off a Siracusa pass.

Sterry brought down on the right giving Kirkley & Pakefield a free-kick. Clarke replacing Sterry before the free-kick is taken. Angled in centrally comes into Clarke quickly reacts well to spin into a shot send it in on target, Barnard down sharply to make the blocking save the ball spinning away to her left threatening to creep in at the post. cleared off the line by a defender, even as Kerrison looks to blast it home from close range.

Martham goalkeeper, Laura Barnard

Bulloch with an ambitious volley from 30 yards out sends the ball wide of the mark for Martham. Players beginning to tire on both sides with little let up in the open nature of the game one side winning it back at the back, then looking to get it forwards quickly, Siracusa sending the ball on up the left wing for Barber Boakes breaks clear to run down the line, Fairbrother needing to come running across to close her down, putting in the tackle to send the ball out for a throw. 

Martham defender, Baelie Fairbrother

 Shearing taking the ball on for Martham threading the pass into Chambers on the right, looks to drive infield, Siracusa stretching out a leg to get hold of the ball for the hosts fires it up the line for Barber Boakes, seeing it down into her feet, attempts to turn, Speak closing her down for Martham. Fairbrother looks to have picked up a knock for Martham coming off on comes Jessica Pasco. The game stretched Kirkley & Pakefield with a throw high on the left taken quickly, Siracusa curling the ball into the top of the area, Shearing back to intercept for Martham then again as the ball deflected away to the right falls to the advancing McKay. 

 The game moving into the final 10 minutes, certainly has the feel it could go either way, Kirkley & Pakefield have willing runners up top, Miller putting the ball out to the left for Clarke to attack taking it on to the by-line held up, looks to shift it between her feet before sending in across the face of goal Barnard diving down to get hold of the ball. Kerrison stealing in on the ball out on the right bursting forwards, shooting on the angle 20 yards out, annoyed as the ball is screwed wide at the near post.

  Martham over commit going forwards as Kirkley & Pakefield fight to regain possession outside their box, Marnell giving it to Siracusa who has space to carry it into on the left, Colby tracking back to deal with her getting in a timely tackle. The hosts pushing for the winner getting a corner on the left driven in low to the near post, defended deflected back out to the taker, played up into the top of the area for Miller positioned top of the D, attempts to curl a strike in on goal, can only pick out Barnard, the keeper getting hold of the ball.

Paige Searle

  Martham pushing players on late on as they themselves look for the winning goal, Kirkley & Pakefield pressed back to defend their box, getting the ball upfield looking to expose their opponents at the back, Clarke through the middle, Dennington with the blocking tackle, the ball not cleared however as Barber Boakes left channel looks to take it on Speak with a blocking tackle forcing Barber Boakes wide, goes with her, with Saunders getting back to support the ball cleared. 

  Nekrews with the ball for Martham down in the left corner, winning her side a corner kick, players up into the area, congested at the near post as the ball is curled in at an inviting height, Curtis going to punch it, drops instead into the mix inside the six yard box, chaos as players from both sides attempt to get their foot on the ball, could go anywhere, is knocked in towards goal to the right, cleared off the line away to the right. 

  Martham pushing hard in the closing moments of the game winning a corner on the right, players up the ball fired in across the top of the six yard box bouncing up off the surface at the far post, Anderson leaping looking to meet it with her head, turning her chance wide. The final whistle blowing moments later, the points shared.

Melissa Anderson turning her header wide.

  Full time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 1-1 Martham FC Ladies

  Overall perhaps the fair result, but no doubt both sides will feel they could have won the game, created good opportunities. Kirkley & Pakefield showing a positive intent at the start of the 2nd half to get after the ball, take the lead. Sat back then as Martham looked for  quick reply and took their opportunity. An even contest the game stretched as players began to tire and gaps opened up. The point enough to see Martham into 2nd spot with, Bure Valley Women Development losing against FC Viking & Valkyries Reserves, now 2 points behind leaders Brundall Bolts Women with a game in hand. Kirkley & Pakefield remain 7th but with games in hand themselves are more than capable of getting involved in the tussle at the top too.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sundays Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. As tough a decision as any in choosing todays winner, contenders on both sides, both teams working hard in defence. Several performances to mention, firstly for Martham, Baelie Fairbrother putting in several good challenges at the back to win the ball for the visitors get around on the cover. Paige Searle winning her tackles in the middle, playing some good passes out to the flanks. Lily Bulloch getting hold of the ball making some driving runs in attack, finding good positions in and around the box. Emily Dennington with her pace causing Kirkley & Pakefield a few issues on the left. Bethany Shearing adding steel to the Martham midfield when she came on used the ball well, a threat from a set-piece. For Kirkley & Pakefield the three in defence all put in some vital tackles and blocks, Abbie Pogmore getting her foot in to win the ball turning play around, Sasha Friel covering well to get across to snub out threats, Daphne Siracusa too on the left side of defence closing down well. Maddie-Mae Kerrison leading the attack with some strong runs to take the ball forwards constantly looking for an opening to set up a teammate. Sophie Barber Boakes with some good work too on the left opening the scoring. Karina Filippus with some great foot work in the middle of the park in a congested midfield to bring the ball away. The award though goes to Scarlet Miller worked hard though out to win the ball in front of her defence, carrying it out from the back with some good runs, tackled well and found herself in some great positions when Kirkley & Pakefield got the ball forwards.

  Great to get down the leagues see some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Three, nice to return to Walmer Road, always a buzz of activity. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups today. Will certainly be interested to see how both fair during the rest of the season and good luck to both. 

by Darren Gilham