Monthly Archives: May 2025

Cup Final Special – Needham Market Women Development v Brantham Athletic Ladies

Friday 16th May

Suffolk Women’s Cup Final

Heading down to Suffolk this Friday evening to attend this season’s, Women’s League Cup Final, Brantham Athletic Ladies looking to do a double, double as they take on Needham Market Women Development aiming to retain the trophy.

Successfully defending their league title one more game left the League Cup, held at Brantham Leisure Centre, home of Brantham Athletic FC, Needham Market Women Development’s young squad looking to stop them unbeaten in 5 coming into this evenings final.

The Suffolk Women’s League Cup trophy

Getting the balance right between the two divisions in Suffolk has been a challenge the past couple of seasons, expanding to feature the women’s Premiership and Championship below, just 7 sides contesting the Premiership with 11 in the Championship, but in terms of strength of squads and competitiveness this has been the right call as sides look to grow and development and hopefully it will continue in that direction.

A complete turnaround for Brantham Athletic Ladies, from almost folding due to lack of numbers a couple of seasons ago, to bringing in need coaches and adding experienced players to the group, leading to the formation of a new Development side, the 1st team winning the League and Cup last season, continuing that momentum into this campaign winning the league comfortably and odds on favourites for the league cup. Have applied for promotion to the ERWFL and as Champions they are highly likely to be accepted.

A successful season for Brantham Athletic FC all round with the men’s side winning the Thurlow Nunn, Premier Division. The women’s side has dropped just two points all season, unbeaten, winning all but one of their 12 league matches. Scoring plenty of goals along the way too with Ella Long and Laura Tuley leading the way up front both on 24 goals coming into the last game of their season. Chloe Wilson also into double figures having netted 10 times this campaign.

Needham Market Development achieving their best ever league finish this season, ending the campaign 3rd in the Women’s Premiership table. A young squad aiming to break into the 1st team, playing in the ERWFL Premier Division. Needham Market bursting onto the scene with their women’s side and academy making their mark on women’s football in Suffolk in their relatively short history. This the first cup final appearance for their Development squad.

Have plenty goals within the side with 14 of the 24 players used this season on the scoresheet. Poppy Nunn leading the leading the way, top scorer with 18 to her name from 15 appearances. Imogen Porch also into double figures on target for 10 goals. With Hannah Cobbold and Poppy Dyson both on 8 apiece. The nature of a 7 strong league means there can be longer periods without a game a healthy gap of nearly 8 weeks between Needham market’s last league match and this evenings final. Brantham themselves only playing one competitive game in March, April and May respectfully coming into the final.

Road to the Final

Brantham awarded a home win in the 1st Round of the league cup. Needham Market were on the road taking on Championship side, Coplestonians Ladies, Poppy Nunn, Imogen Porch, Poppy Nunn and Hannah Cobbald all scoring a brace each, with Jessica Marriot and Elise Rossman also scoring in a 10-1 win.

Needham Market taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies Development side in the 2nd round of the league cup. Emma Drake and Chloe Taylor both bagging a brace with Porch and Ashleigh Goddard also scoring a goal to see Needham Market leading 3-0 at the break go on to win the game 6-1. Brantham at home taking on Championship side Framlingham Town Ladies in the 2nd round, Ella Long firing in 4 goals for Brantham. Laura Tuley and Chloe Wilson scoring 2 each with Emmi Bennett and Rachel White also finding the back of the net in a 10-0 win.

Into the last 8 of the league cup, Needham Market at home to Championship side, Leiston St Margarets Ladies, another strong showing in front of goal with Cobbold and Nunn both scoring a hat-trick. Lucy Cherney, Taylor, Dyson ad Porch also getting in amongst the goals in a 10-0 romp. Brantham taking on fellow Premiership side, Stowupland Falcons Women on home turf in the quarter finals. Bennett on target for a brace in the game, with Lucy Dunnett, Tarnya McKew and Long all getting a goal in a 5-1 victory.

Needham Market away in the semi-finals taking on Capel Plough Women, newly promoted to the Premiership. Poppy Dyson firing home twice to send her side into the final with Hepsie Attrill also bagging herself a goal in a 3-0 win. Brantham away to Championship title challengers, Ramsey & Mistley Ladies, Laura Tuley finding the back of the net for two goals, with Long, Bennett and Wilson all getting on the scoresheet in a 6-2 win to send Brantham into their 3rd successive league cup final.

Brantham Leisure centre, home of Brantham Athletic FC the venue for this evenings final, has been a while since I last visited the ground, but hosts a number of Brantham sides, the main grass pitch with training pitches and cricket area beyond. The carpark often busy, full this evening the clubhouse open leading out to the pitch, the kitchen hatch too serving hot food and drink. The grass pitch firm with good cover despite the lack of rain recently. Standing viewing all round with a small covered stand offset behind one goal and another between the dugouts. The weather noticeably cooler with a stiff breeze at time cloud cover but no rain forecast. Brantham the ‘away’ side for this evenings final.

Needham Market Women Development starting XI – Zoe Adams, Jess Marriott, Khyla Anderson-Hayler, Mia Lockwood, Sophia Gillingham, Emma Drake, Amy Trenter (C), Chloe Taylor, Hannah Cobbold, Hepsie Attrill & Immy Porch. Subs – Ashleigh Goddard, Maddi Steward, Poppy Dyson, Elisa Rossman & Lucy Cherney.

Needham Market Women Development

Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI – Daisie-Mae Gibbs, Aimee Berry, Chloe Wilson, Kirby Steward (C), Issey Hines, Sophie Crabtree, Lucy Dunnett, Emmi Bennett, Tarnya McKew, Laura Tuley & Ella Long. Subs – Stacey Teager, Ines Bowman-Boyles & Rachel White.

Brantham Athletic Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Kirby Steward and Amy Trenter with this evenings match officials

Harriet Young refereeing this evenings final leading the two teams out onto the pitch, the overcast skies leading to the floodlights coming on prior to kick-off. Brantham will kick-off the first half wearing an all navy kit with white trim on the shirts. Needham market lined up opposite wearing red coloured shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and red socks. The ball rolled back into Lucy Dunnett in midfield, played on for Ella Long in attack her early shot from range charged down the ball coming to the right for Emmi Bennett breaking forwards, Jess Marriott moving in to win the ball for Needham Market at left back getting it back to her goalkeeper, Zoe Adams to kick clear.

Needham market look to push players on with pace getting the ball up the right, forcing Brantham into conceding an early corner. Played into the top of the area, Brantham with a nervy clearance, Needham Market quick to win it back pressing the ball, Dunnett able to get hold of it for Brantham sending a diagonal ball out to the right looknig for Bennett, Marriot intercepts for Needham Market.

Brantham winning a free-kick in a central position some 30 yards out, Dunnett their dead ball specialist over the set-piece, lines up the strike fired in on target however straight at the keeper a comfortable save for Adams. Tarnya McKew wide on the left for Brantham looking to break away, full back Khyla Anderson-Hayler getting back at her near the corner to play the ball out of her for a throw.

Long into Laura Tuley in attack as Brantham play the ball on through the middle, comes out to Bennett right side, Marriott with the blocking tackle, Emma Drake taking it on looking to break on the right, Aimee Berry pushed up from defence snatching the ball back inside to roll it on into the box for Tuley breaking in behind right of goal her angled strike flashed in high into the side netting.

A corner awarded lifted into the keeper from the right, Adams under pressure comes in near side, knocked behind for a 2nd corner on the right. Put in long beyond the far post turned behind for a 3rd corner to the left. Brantham getting bodies into the box as the delivery comes in central defended cleared out to the right side Berry looking to curl in a cross to the near post, Immy Porch up to head the ball away for Needham Market.

Brantham captain, Kirby Steward coming across to the right to deal with the ball as Chloe Taylor and Hannah Cobbold look to bring the ball on up the wing for Needham Market the ball out for a throw. Brantham looknig to get the ball out too their wide players, McKew hugging to touch line on the left getting down to the by-lined, challenged the ball out for another corner. Lively both sides wanting to get the ball forwards, Needham market with the ball at their feet, pace as Drake gets it on up the left flank before Berry lunges in to make the challenge get the ball back for Brantham.

Needham Market’s Emma Drake

Brantham winning a free-kick deep on the left Dunnett to send the ball into the top corner of the area, Chloe Wilson seeing her strike charged down the ball cleared out to Needham Market’s Drake on the left burst forwards the ball knocked on for Porch, Brantham keeper, Daisie-Mae Gibbs rushing out of her area looking to clear the ball, Porch instead charging the kick down running after the ball as it rebounds on into the area defenders racing back to try and cover the empty goal as Porch on the angle looks to turn the ball in to the near post instead collapses in frustration as the ball crashes into the side netting.

Sophie Crabtree linking up with Dunnett through the middle for Brantham the ball clipped out to the right wing for Bennett, Marriott diving in to play the ball out for a throw in the corner, Brantham turn it into a corner kick. Played into the top of the area from the right, Long moving in to strike it first time her shot into the crowded six yard box, blocked. Comes out to the right, Bennett fouled by Porch, Brantham winning another set-piece out wide.

Dunnett sending the ball into the top of the box, Hepsie Attrill winning the ball for Needham Market charging out of the area looking to lead a counter attack the ball launched up the left channel for Porch to attack, defender, Issey Bines looking to go with her chase the ball down, Porch too eager in her hunt tugging on Innes ponytail looking to gain the advantage the defender going to ground the referee immediately blowing for the free-kick having a stern word with Porch.

Is competitive, Needham Market looking to try and close the ball down get it into their attacking players quickly, Brantham with the more experience squad looking to play the ball into the channels and out wide with players making timely runs. Drake getting on well with the ball for Needham market on the left winning a corner kick. The delivery long into the far post area knocked down scrambled away to the right falling to Cobbold out wide her angled shot back in held safely by Gibbs.

Porch moving over to the right side with Taylor and Cobbold as Needham Market bring the ball on, Taylor sending the ball into Porch 25 yards out, is tugged back herself resulting in Needham market getting the set-piece. Attrill over the ball to the right of the area, lifted in near post, Long heading the ball clear for Brantham, a shot taken from distance finding it’s way through to the keeper.

End to end as Berry gets forwards with Bennett on Brantham’s right, giving Bennett the ball goes on the overlap the ball sent into her path taking it to the by-line, Sophia Gillingham across to help Marriott out the ball played behind for a corner kick. Brantham looking to put the ball in on the keeper, an in swinger just over her dropping far post a snap shot, blocked on the line put clear to the left a shot on the angle blazed over.

Tuley pulling away to the right for Brantham sending a shot in on the angle across the keeper from 20 yards out, McKew retrieving it left side laid on for Wilson coming on from the back, her near post strike from outside the box, saved by Adams dropping onto the ball. Needham Market energetic unsettling Brantham to a degree Steward cutting out an intended through ball from Trenter for Porch, turning play around, into Dunnett out to Tuley right 25 yards out, Long making a run across her getting hold of the through ball taking it on the angle her shot rising, over the ball, the keeper getting a faint touch a corner given.

GOAL! The game fast approaching the half hour mark, Brantham building some momentum McKew getting on well down the left the ball fed into her path taking it on, cuts it back inside to Long positioned top left corner outside the box shifts the ball inside before striking the ball, hard up over the keeper and into the far corner of the goal beyond, 0-1.

Ella Long celebrates with her teammates as she gives Brantham the lead

Needham Market looking for an immediate reply the ball from Taylor right on for Porch passed infield into Attrill takes it on across the D looking for an opening her effort saved by Gibbs back in her six yard box. Long up the other end flashing a shot wide across the face of the Needham Market goal as she is played in by McKew in the left channel.

Brantham getting hold of the ball in the middle Crabtree out to McKew left takes the ball inside before rolling it across the top of the area for Bennett on the right side, Marriott diving in giving away the corner kick. Players up from the ball surrounding the keeper, curled into the middle of the six yard box, Adams does very well amongst the crowd to get her arm up to push the ball away to the left. Trenter with Attrill as Needham Market get the ball forwards, out to Taylor advancing on the right, Wilson stepping in to tackle for Brantham.

Brantham’s Chloe Wilson

GOAL! Brantham attack down their left flank McKew on the ball cut back inside to Long left channel has Tuley ahead of her rolling the ball on, Tuley drives forwards battling her way into the area getting clear to fire the ball on the angle across the diving keeper to double the lead 0-2.

Laura Tuley doubles Brantham’s lead

Needham Market falling 2 goals behind making a change bringing off Trenter, send on Poppy Dyson. Marriot donning the armband. Drake taking the ball on with pace up the left getting a corner for Needham Market. players up onto the box. Swung into the near post at in inviting height, Gillingham rising to attack it with her head, turns it narrowly wide of the upright.

Sophie Gillingham coming close from the corner kick

Bennett coming back to help defend for Brantham as Drake dispossesses Berry on the wing looks to drive on up the left. Attrill taking the ball on from Parch on the right, getting pulled back. Taking the free-kick lifted on into the box, Dunnett getting it clear for Brantham. A shot struck in from distance Gibbs behind it falling onto the ball. Taylor bringing the ball on up Needham market left channel driving on looking to get into the box, catching the ball with the outside of her boot in an attempt to knock it on into the box before Innes can close her down, Steward with the clearance for Brantham.

The game a little stretched with both sides going for it Dunnett with a good range of passing at her disposal the ball on for Long up top left side fed on for McKew down the flank her angled strike in low to the near post held by Adams. Moments later McKew played in again down the left tries the angled short rising this time threatening to loop up over the keeper, Adams does well getting her arms up quickly to snatch the ball down into her gloves.

Needham Market goalkeeper, Zoe Adams

Dunnett taking the ball left taking on the shot from distance the ball cut out by Needham Market, Lockwood top of the area. Adams rushing out to the edge of her area sliding in to save at the feet of McKew as she is played on down the line by Long. The flag up against her for offside however. Marriott doing well in defence for Needham Market getting her body across Bennett as she looks to get hold of the ball on the right, plays it back to her keeper to kick clear.

Brantham’s Emmi Bennett

Brantham pushing for a 3rd goal late in the first half McKew taking the ball on down the left putting it inside for Tuley, making a move to skip into the box, Lockwood with the challenge to halt the attack. Needham Market launch a counter attack, Dyson on the move through the middle with the ball fired into Drake outside the D, moving left the Brantham defence moving in to close her down the loose ball coming to Taylor some 30 yards out goes to strike the ball, her effort inches over the crossbar.

Half-time Needham Market Women Development 0-2 Brantham Athletic Ladies

Brantham head back into the changing rooms at the break leading the league cup final 2-0, the goals coming in quick succession around the half hour mark. Has done little to dampen Needham market’s spirits lively in the first half have unsettled their opponents to a degree created some very good chances of their own. Not taking one however, Brantham using the ball and the pitch to their advantage spreading play, 2 goal leads always tricky of course a 3rd goal would sap the energy as little, Needham Market get the goal at it’s very much game on.

No changes for either side at the break. with Needham Market getting the 2nd half underway. Needham Market with the kick-off, find Porch on the left drives on with the ball, tackled by Berry, the ball into the middle for Dunnett lifted out to McKew wide left sends it forwards for Tuley through the middle beating the offside trap racing for the box, Gillingham back on her shoulder getting a foot on the ball to turn it to the left, Long latching onto it outside the box her low strike straight at the keeper.

Brantham looknig to get after the ball at the start of the 2nd half close Needham Market down inside their own half. Dyson attempting to put the ball on for Porch in attack, Steward moving across her box to dive in put the ball out for a corner kick. Defended at the near post Brantham’s turn for the counter the ball lifted up to Long racing on up the left wing, Anderson-Hayler getting back on her to tackle turn the ball behind for a corner.

Swung into the area from the left, Porch up high to head the ball clear, Taylor looking to take the ball on through the middle get Needham Market on the attack, Steward across lunging in to make the tackle, hurting herself in the process but aright to continue. Marriott getting in to challenge Long as the attacker links up with Bennett on the right.

Issy Hines with Immy Porch

Needham Market advance on the left, Porch with the ball at her feet level with the top of the area laying the ball inside for Taylor, her shot blocked by Innes, the rebound finding it’s way out to Attrill to the right of goal her shot on the angle saved by Gibbs across to cover the near post. Needham Market remain lively looking to take the ball to Brantham, who themselves are probing looking for a 3rd goal.

GOAL! And it arrives 10 minutes into the 2nd half, with Long given the ball coming inside from the right moving towards the corner of the area 20 yards out striking the ball with her left foot, sending it flying in over the keeper into the back of the net for her 2nd of the game 0-3.

Ella Long fires Brantham into a 3 goal lead

Brantham making a change bringing on Stacey Teager, for Dunnett in the middle. McKew remains a ready outlet on the left for Brantham keeping Anderson-Hayler busy. Brantham with a flowing move getting forwards, McKew left cut back to Teager who lays it across to Long to send out to Berry getting on down the right flank her cross swept high into the six yard box, McKew leaping up from close range looking to head the ball knocks it just over.

Brantham’s Tarnya McKew

Attrill battling for the ball in the centre for Needham Market bringing in forwards attempting to put the through ball on for Taylor, Steward cutting the ball out at the back for Brantham. Dunnett not off the field for long coming back on with Crabtree the player off. Lockwood closing McKew down as she looks to drive on into the left channel. Bennett played on by Teager right side, Marriott closing her down.

Needham Market’s Hepsie Attrill

Brantham winning a free-kick on halfway, Dunnett to send it into the top of the Needham Market box, headed clear falls to a Brantham boot the strike from range dipping on the keeper but Adams claims confidently. Attrill coming off for Needham Market with Ashleigh Goddard entering the action. Anderson-Hayler putting the ball on down the right for Parch to attack, Wilson defending in the corner the ball out for a throw. Put up the line the cross intercepted by Wilson.

Drake stealing onto the ball 30 yards out left of the box goes for the shot angled in skipping off the surface, Gibbs down quickly to smother the ball. Needham Market winning a free-kick deep on the left played into the top of the area, cleared by Dunnett, Brantham look to break the ball fed on for McKew through the middle racing on, Lockwood in well to close her down.

Brantham goalkeeper, Daisie-Mae Gibbs

McKew pulling up down needing to come off, Crabtree coming back on. Needham Market also making changes bringing on Maddi Steward for Marriott sees Anderson-Hayler move to left back with Steward right. Elisa Rossman on too. Remains competitive Needham Market keep pushing looking for an opportunity, Brantham reasonably comfortable in defence can pick their time to attack.

Maddi Steward over a Needham Market free-kick wide on the right played in to the top of the Brantham area. Knocked down to the right, Rossman looking to get hold of it, Crabtree winning the tackle for Brantham. Porch has given it all to try and find a goal for Needham Market this evening as play builds on the left with Drake and Taylor the ball put across the D into Porch goes to strike it first time frustration once again as her rising strike packing plenty of power swerves to brush the side netting on it’s way behind.

Lucy Chenery coming on for Needham Market with the game moving into the final quarter hour. Parch with a blast from range all of 35 yards out on target, dips into the keepers gloves. Ines Bowman-Boyles coming on for Brantham, to replace Bennett. Porch up with Taylor on the left outside the Brantham box the pass cut inside for Goddard moving across the D looking for a gap, Steward diving in to take the ball for Brantham.

Needham Market not sitting back prepared to give it a go look for a goal, McKew returning to the action for Brantham with Crabtree coming off. Gillingham tackling Teager for Needham Market as McKew tries to get the ball into her from the left. Wilson moving in to close Goddard down as she picks the ball up from Dyson in the middle drives forwards. Needham Market pushing players on late on as Brantham start to tire getting up around the box, Drake into Rossman into the box forced out to the right, her cross cut out at the near post.

Brantham midfielder, Lucy Dunnett

Cobbold back on for Needham Market as Porch giving away a foul is shown the yellow card, Brantham get on the attack through the middle, Long up with Teager and McKew the ball blocked 3 times by the Needham Market defence top of their area as they try to force a shot through onto the keeper. Needham Market with a throw high on the left into Drake on the angle her shot struck low to the near post, blocked. A corner won on the left angled into the near post high, Gibbs coming for it getting up to grab hold of the ball.

Needham Market attacker, Immy Porch

The clock ticking down, Needham Market pressing for a goal late on as Brantham look to defend keeping players back behind the ball. Gillingham cutting the ball out at the back for Needham Market as McKew looks to put Teager on through the middle. Needham Market get on the counter the ball from Dyson on for Porch getting into the box right slide, Steward sliding in on her with a strong tackle. Porch hurt stays down for a moment up hobbling comes over to the side lines.

In final whistle moments away Needham Market doing all they can to get an opportunity at goal, Brantham solid in defence working hard at the back keeping things tight determined to keep a clean sheet. Brantham celebrate as they win they retain the Suffolk Women’s League Cup and complete a historic double double.

Full time Needham Market Women Development 0-3 Brantham Athletic Ladies

An intriguing final between two contracting sides, Brantham the favourites having won the title convincingly and having a vastly experienced squad, Needham Market’s talented youngsters giving it a good go however never letting their heads drop. Brantham getting the ball on well first half using the flanks creating opportunities taking the lead just before the half hour, quickly adding a 2nd to get control of the game. Needham Market creating good chances of their own just not taking them trailing at the break. Brantham adding a 3rd goal early in the 2nd half allowing them to settle back defend their box wait for the right moment to break forwards. Needham Market applying late pressure doing all they could to find a goal.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several performances of note was an entertaining match, but there is a clear winner. For Needham Market the defence all played their part, Khyla Anderson-Hayler, Jess Marriott, Mia Lockwood and Sophie Gillingham all putting in timely tackles and inceptions. Emma Drake took the ball on well breaking out from the back. Chloe Taylor with so useful link up play. Immy Porch in attack will feel frustrated she didn’t score but she created the opportunities sometimes it just won’t happen. For Brantham Kirby Steward was strong in defence getting her tackles in reading the game and cutting passes out. Issey Bines too, with some vital tackling and tracking back with Needham Market looking to drive forwards. Lucy Dunnett used the ball well in midfield having good passing options ahead of her. Tarnya McKew one of those outlets a constant threat out on the left created several chances. Laura Tuley with good movement up top scoring a goal. The award goes to the other goal scorer Ella Long opened the scoring and an assist for the 2nd got forwards into the channels linking up play throughout, adding a 2nd and Brantham’s 3rd in the 2nd half.

Brantham Athletic Ladies 2024/25 Suffolk Women’s League Cup winners (photo credit Brantham Ladies)

Congratulations to Brantham Athletic Ladies on winning this season’s Suffolk Women’s League Cup and completing a 2nd successive league and cup double.

Had to wait to the cup final to see Brantham in action this season, have had an excellent couple of season’s and should they get promotion to the ERWFL will be more than competitive. 1st look at Needham Market’s talented youngsters gave it a go and look forward to seeing how they develop within the club and beyond. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups tonight. Back in Suffolk next Wednesday for the inaugural Women’s League Plate final between Bacton United Ladies and Halesworth Town Women at Stowmarket Town FC on Wednesday evening.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women v Luton Town Ladies

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Sunday 11th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Following on from ???? triumph in the ERWFL League Plate we move onto the League Cup Final itself with The Eyrie, hosting Stevenage FC Women and Luton Town Ladies as they compete for the trophy.

Little to separate the two sides too leading into the game each claiming a 1-0 win at home in the league against the other and they shared an epic penalty shootout in the Women’s FA Cup having drawn 1-1, Luton eventually edging it 15-14 from the spot. Hopefully no such drama this afternoon, but certainly promises to be an intriguing contest.

The ERWFL League Cup

Luton with a very similar story to Hutton in terms of their league success, cup runs and call offs early in 1st half of the season keeping them well placed behind the leaders, Royston Town Women, then converting those games in hand into points roared to the top of the table and clinched victory with games to spare to become champions and with it return to the FAWNL after a 6 year absence. Runners up in the previous two season’s too, winning the League Cup back in 2023, against Stevenage 2-1.

Going one better this season have added the prolific, Natasha Fensome to the squad, coming to the club from Bedfordshire rivals, Real Bedford Women after they more or less let their entire treble winning squad from the previous season go following their own promotion to the FAWNL. Fensome’s goals playing a huge part in that success, the leagues top scorer with 34 goals that campaign. Is up there again this time around breaking the 30 barrier with 31 goals so far with a couple of games to go vying for the golden boot with Royston’s, Emma Slater who has 34. Plenty of goals throughout the squad however, with 18 of the 34 used so far amongst the goals, Jess McKay the only other player into double figures netting 12 goals. Their Reserves side recently winning the inaugural Bedfordshire Women’s Trophy.

Stevenage too enjoying a short spell in the FAWNL, rebuilding in the ERWFL and once again looking strong to mount a title bid themselves, having secured a top 3 finish in the Premier Division have a strong platform to push on from could even finish 2nd if local rival Royston happened to slip up in their final game of the season and Stevenage win their remaining two. Losing just one of their last 14 league matches to move up the table. As mentioned enjoying some close matches against Luton this season will be buoyed by their recent 1-0 victory coming into today’s League Cup final.

Like Luton benefitted from the dispersal of last season’s Real Bedford Women’s treble winning squad bringing attacker, Gemma Croucher to the club, has settled in well, the current top scorer finding the back of the net with 21 goals from her 28 appearances. Amy Makewell on target scoring 13 goals from her 25 matches. Like Luton have a strong defensive record too. Expecting a tight contest but hoping it doesn’t go to penalties.

Road to the Final

A bye for both sides in the first round of the League Cup, Stevenage drawn away to Division One North side, AFC Dunstable Women in the 2ne round. Midfielder Hannah Bodily on target for 2 goals one in each half along with a strike from Gemma Croucher and an injury time goal from Matilda Thomas O’Keefe sealing a 4-1 victory. Luton at home taking on Division One South opposition in Hertford Town Women. Natasha Fensome on target for 2 goals with Gabriella Spillman, Francesca Partridge and Shianne Swarres also scoring in a comfortable 5-0 win.

Moving to the 3rd Round Stevenage were at home taking on fellow Premier Division outfit, St Albans Women. Croucher, captain Lucy Webster and Amy Makewell getting a goal each in the first half Croucher when on to add her 2nd early in the 2nd half to seal a 4-2 win. Luton away in the 3rd round taking on Watford Ladies Development newly promoted to the Premier Division a much tighter affair with a single goal enough to see Luton advance, scored by Jess McKay.

The last 8 saw Stevenage making the long trip up to Norfolk to play last season’s beaten finalists, Wroxham Women, a close contest Gemma Croucher’s 41st minute goal the difference between the side as Stevenage advanced into the semi-finals. Luton taking on Division One North side, Real Bedford Women Reserves, a different story here as Luton powered there way into the last 4 piling on the goals, Tsaianne Leader scoring a hat-trick with Fensome bagging herself a brace. Goals too for Jess McKay, Shanice Lewis and Elly Wade in a 9-0 win.

Stevenage hosting fellow Premier Division side, Enfield Town Ladies in their semi-final, Gemma Croucher scoring for Stevenage in the 8th minute, Kelsey Millen adding a 2nd midway through the first half, Enfield getting a goal but not enough as Stevenage held on for a 20-1 win to book their spot in this season’s final. Luton at home too taking on league leaders, Royston Town Women a tough contest the pair drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes the tie going to extra-time Luton were to come out on top to add 2 more goals to win through to the final 3-1. Fiona Buttigieg, Leyah Maddix and Tsaianne Leander with the goals.

The sun powerful come the afternoon kick-off the temperature on the playing surface alone hot without the air around it. Uncomfortable to a degree to play in shade starting to form over on the far side of the ground by the dug outs. A good crowd building for this one at The Eyrie with two local sides going toe to toe. The bar and kitchen still open doing plenty of trade. The stand filling up with spectators looking for shade as well as a good view myself included.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Lauren Reeves, Mistie Fox-Barker, Hannah Nebbitt, Lucy Webster (C), Rebecca Edge, Chloe Gunn, Frankie Tilbury, Lillia Dempsey, Eva Delaney, Gemma Croucher & Amy Makewell. Subs – Hannah Bodily, Lilly Kelly, Kelsey Millen, Anais Corrigan & Millie Constantine.

Stevenage FC Women

Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Tanya Blacksley, Shanice Lewis, Fiona Buttigieg, Elly Wade (C), Shianne Swarres, Jess McKay, Elizabeth Mulvaney, Amber Leighton, Tsaianne Leader & Natasha Fensome. Subs – Ami Martins, Stef Paci, Leyah Maddix, Nicole Farmer & Erin Price.

Luton Town Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes, there will be 30 minutes added time and penalties if required.

Captain’s Lucy Webster and Elly Wade with this afternoon’s match officials

Stevenage wearing their away colours purple shirt and socks with black shorts. Luton wearing orange coloured shirts with a white vertical stripe offset on the front, navy shorts and orange socks. Luton to get the first half underway, kicking the ball up top into their attackers early on, Stevenage goalkeeper stepping up to claim the ball getting an early feel of it in her gloves. Competitive right from the off Luton snapping in to win the ball, Stevenage biting back, giving away a free-kick in the centre.

Fiona Buttigieg over the set-piece for Luton lifts it forwards to the right, Rebecca Edge rising high to win the header for Stevenage, but clashing with a Luton attack comes off the worse and she collapses to the ground, an early pause while she is accessed. Getting up tentatively walks gingerly to the side lines but will be ok to play on. Luton are know to be physical and that is no surprise to any opponent are strong in their pursuit of the ball looking to get it moving forwards with energy.

Stevenage just as competitive the early stages seeing each one test the other with forward balls into the channels, Chloe Gunn in front of the Stevenage defence winning the ball. Jess McKay diving in with her tackles for Luton. Stevenage get the ball moving through the middle Frankie Tilbury on for Gemma Croucher making a run into the left channel, Luton captain Elly Wade moving in to close her down.

Luton feeding the ball on for Tsaianne Leander 20 yards out in attack central drives towards the box, Stevenage captain Lucy Webster stepping in to put in the tackle the ball knocked away to the left, a misplaced pass almost presenting Leander with another opportunity outside the area is quickly closed down. Stevenage looking to get on the3 counter attack the ball threaded on for Croucher in attack, Wade racing back with her just getting there first to deal with the danger.

Luton’s Jess McKay

Wade into defend again at the back for Luton putting the ball out for a corner kick as Lillia Dempsey drives on into the box in the left channel. The corner flung in over everyone inside the six yard box, cleared far side. Lucy Webster if given the opportunity from the back will drive forwards through the middle for Stevenage carrying the ball along way, bearing down on the opposing area she strike is charged down by Luton’s Elizabeth Mulvaney. Tilbury trying her luck from range her 25 yard strike for Stevenage taking a deflection off a defender seeing the sting taken out of it travelling safely back into goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson.

Luton attacker, Tsaianne Leander

McKay getting forwards for Luton up the other end taking on the strike from 30 plus yards out as the ball is deflected into her path, put straight in on the keeper, Reeves saving comfortably. McKay with Shianne Swarres in the middle for Luton the ball rolled on for Leander in the right channel sends it on into the box for Fensome, Webster moving in to close her down for Stevenage the ball behind for a corner out on the right.

Rebecca Edge challenging Amber Leighton for the ball

Flashed into the area through everyone Luton retrieving it on the left, Tanya Blacksley up with McKay put back into the near post, gathered by Reeves in goal. Gunn with a strong challenge on Leander as the attacker looks to force her way into the box. Luton lively pushing on Blacksley from the back putting a good ball in over the top for Fensome making a run central to left to get in behind, clear, Reeves comes racing out to the top of her area looking to try and close her down, Fensome taking the ball past the keeper into the area cutting her low shot back in at the empty net, both Webster and Edge racing round on the cover to get to the ball, Edge clearing it off the line!

Both sides battling for the ball, Luton gaining the free-kick hoisted up towards the top of the area dealt with by Stevenage’s Gunn. Buttigieg advancing up the left with the ball for Luton plays in inside for Leander, Mistie Fox-Barker in to close her down for Stevenage the full back preventing the cross the ball out for a throw in. Stevenage counter through the middle, Eva Delaney on for Makewell, back to goal spins on the ball well to help it into the path of Croucher storming on down the left channel bursting into the box her low strike on the angle saved low by Hudson at her near post.

Buttigieg stealing the ball high on the left for Luton races on down the wing whipping a pacy cross into the near post, Fensome coming for the ball looking to get it under control under pressure from Webster can’t keep it in play. Fox-Barker bringing the ball on right side for Stevenage drills a diagonal ball low into the box cut out by Wade, cleared upfield Luton quickly on the counter, Reeves rushing out of her area to clear the threat.

Stevenage goalkeeper, Lauren Reeves

Both side energetic despite the heat, fighting for the ball, passes a little rushed if anything as they look to take the game to the other. Hannah Nebbitt left side for Stevenage looking to pick out Makewell in attack with the diagonal ball cut out by Blacksley at the back for Luton. Nebbitt sending the ball on into the box again for Stevenage Makewell bearing down on the keeper, with Blackley and Wade tracking her, Hudson standing her ground blocking the ball getting hold of it for Luton.

Jess McKay sliding in to win the ball for Luton

Up the other end Leander running onto a pass fed inside from the right, striking the ball on the half volley from 20 yards out not getting a solid connection the shot tame through to the keeper. Hudson with a sharp save to deny Makewell inside the box as she steals in behind beating offside trap the ball beat down back to Makewell for a 2nd try, Hudson sharp getting down to grab hold of the ball.

Fensome moving about in attack for Luton looking for space taking the ball down to the by-line left of go no one has caught up with her as she flashes her cross into the six yard box. Busy end to end, cagey at time Fox-Barker getting on for Stevenage right side sending a cross inside looking for Croucher left of the D breaking into the area Wade intercepting the ball for Luton at the back.

Stevenage’s Mistie Fox-Barker

Luton moving the ball quickly getting numbers around it in the middle Swarres with McKay, Amber Leighton coming inside to take the ball on lifted into Leander up top inside the D, Edge winning it back for Stevenage. Leander coming over to the left linking up with Mulvaney and Buttigieg the ball crossed in along the top of the area, Shanice Lewis running in to met it her strike put in straight to the keeper.

The referee calling for the first drinks break of the game, the dugouts in some shade, blisteringly hot out there, both sides covering the ground. The game resumes with a Luton goal kick. Swarres seeing the ball into her 30 yards out shapes to send it goal wards lopping over the keeper but dropping wide of the right post. Leighton bringing the ball in across the Stevenage D moving left looking to put Buttigieg through on goal, Webster throwing out a leg to cut the pass out for Stevenage.

Luton midfielder, Shianne Swarres

Delaney released into space on the right for Stevenage as a deflected ball runs into her path taking it on chops a low cross into the top of the area, won by Wade. Luton lively Leander fed the ball right of goal, Edge moving onto her shoulder to defend for Stevenage the ball pushed away to the right, Leighton from the angle blasting a shot in on goal, Fox-Barker moving round on the cover blocking it in front of her keeper.

Blacksley getting the ball forwards on the left firing it into Leander outside the box, looking to pull the trigger has her arm tugged as she does, awarded the free-kick Buttigieg over the free-kick 20 out left of the D, puts it into the far post defended knocked down to the top of the area, Leighton latching onto it her shot struck wide across the face of goal out past the far post. Luton building some momentum in the final 3rd.

Luton defender, Tanya Blacksley

GOAL! McKay into Fensome in attack, takes the ball in across the top of the D from the right into the middle feeding it into Buttigieg breaking into the area from the left one touch then curls the ball up over the keeper to nestle inside the net at the far post 0-1.

Fiona Buttigieg firing Luton into the lead.

Luton into the lead in the 40th minute looking strong winning the ball in the middle, McKay diving in to win possession Buttigieg into the middle for Mulvaney on for Leander up top lays it off for Leighton who attempts to thread it in behind for Fensome, bursting in one goal, but the flag goes up against her even as Reeves rushes in to close her down. Swarres pushing forwards with the ball at her feet for Luton looks for Fensome up top the ball cut out by Edge the Fensome fouls Gunn as she goes to clear the ball.

Buttigieg with a strong tackle on Croucher as she moves out to the right looking for the pass from the advancing Delaney. Delaney then brought down by Wade out wide on the right as she looks to link up with Fox-Barker. Makewell over the set-piece a great ball in one goal at the far post players running in to attack it Hudson up well to punch it clear of her area.

Luton with a free-kick late in the first half on halfway to the right sent into the box, Edge winning it for Stevenage, Luton quick to get back onto the ball outside the box, Leander shifting it out to Fensome on her right stretching as she goes to shoot, pulls her effort high past the near post. Luton looking to get on down the flanks putting Stevenage under pressure. The whistle blows up for half-time, Luton edging the 1st half leading by a single goal.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-1 Luton Town Ladies

Fiona Buttigieg’s 40th minute strike the difference between the sides, has been as expected a tight and competitive contest, Luton getting the ball forwards with pace looking to push Stevenage back. Defending well but limited opportunities up the other end Luton edging it in terms of chances created, still a single goal in it poised perfectly for the 2nd half. Stevenage will want to keep it that way find an opening themselves. Luton won’t want it to remain so tight a 2nd goal putting them closer to claiming the double.

Changes for both sides and supporters alike with the shade over on the far side of the pitch looking very inviting. On the field Luton are bringing on defender Nicole Farmer with Lewis replaced. A double switch for Stevenage with Dempsey and Delaney coming off, Kelsey Millen and Millie Constantine coming on. Stevenage to get the 2nd 45 underway the ball played out to the right with Millen on the attack puts an early cross into the box, cleared by Wade for Luton.

Nebbitt with a testing punt from range deep on the left finding its way through to the keeper. Constantine out on the left side for Stevenage in possession, fires the ball into Tilbury positioned left of the D, but play brought back for the free-kick with Constantine caught late. Nebbitt over the ball hit in towards the far post too strong out of play for a goal kick.

Fensome stealing in behind through the middle for Luton off of a Leander flick on knocking the ball wide of the advancing keeper top of the area snatches at the ball sending it in on goal before being closed down, defenders racing back to try and stop it, can instead watch it roll harmlessly wide of the left post. Farmer winning the ball at the back for Luton sends it on down the right for Fensome pulling out wide taking the ball down to the by-line looking to travel into the box, Nebbitt gets back at her to make the challenge clear the ball.

Tilbury and Constantine link up on the left wing for Stevenage, rolled back up the line to the advancing Nebbitt her cross played into the far post from the angle runs out of play as Millen almost reaches it. Is very hot out on the field, as McKay coming left with the ball for Luton sends a curling cross into the box, that sees Fensome flagged offside as she pulls off the defence, Stevenage holding a good line.

Fox-Barker pushing on up the right for Stevenage whipping a dipped ball into Croucher positioned right of the D, can’t get the ball down into her feet, get a shot away before Wade closes her down. McKay on for Wade in space free to bomb on down the right puts a diagonal ball in towards the near post, Fensome looking to attack it turned behind for a corner kick. Buttigieg taking in short as Leighton comes to the ball the pair looking to force a crossing opportunity, Stevenage close down well forcing Luton to play it all the way back to their keeper.

Stevenage getting amongst it 2nd half better competing for the ball looking to get it into their wide players. Fox-Barker with a well timed tackle inside her box on Leander left side as Leighton sends the ball into her feet, half hearted appeals but they soon die down. Stevenage getting a free-kick in a dangerous position central outside the D, Nebbitt to take shoots over the bar.

Fensome latching onto the ball as it is missed by the defence top of the area clipped in from the middle Fensome left of goal getting a shot away putting it low across the stranded keeper the ball cannoning off the base of the far post before being hurried clear. Stevenage making a change just past the hour mark bringing on Hannah Bodily to replace Gunn in midfield.

Natasha Fensome

Constantine out on the left in possession for Stevenage feeds it inside for Bodily who turns on the ball looking to fizz it into Croucher inside the D, Farmer in close to get the challenge in for Luton. Luton making a double switch with Lewis back on alongside attacker Leyah Maddix, Leander and Blacksley coming off for Luton. Stevenage winning a corner on the right curled into the near post, hooked clear.

Farmer blocks Fox-Barker’s shot as she comes inside with the ball from the right 20 yards out. In the opposite area, Edge defends against Lewis as she surges on with the ball right channel. Lewis lively since returning to the pitch looking to take the ball on her cross into the area taken by Reeves at her near post, the referee calling for another drinks break, much needed. Both sides keeping the tempo up a cagey game toing and froing as Stevenage look to create an opening at times exposing themselves at the other end, Fensome in particular looking for an opportunity to score.

Luton’s Nicole Farmer

Fox-Barker doing well in defence for Stevenage up against Maddix on the left closing her down with a timely tackle to try and get Millen on the move in the opposite direction. Changes for both sides as play resumes with less than 20 minutes to play, Anais Corrigan on for Stevenage replacing Nebbitt. Erin Price coming on for Luton replacing McKay. Webster sets off on another marauding run from the back for Stevenage in central cuts the ball to her left picked out Croucher unmarked top of the area, caught in two minds what to do with the ball as Hudson roars setting herself in goal, the shot tame in the finish Hudson gathering low scooping the ball up into her gloves.

Luton with a throw high on the right as Lewis breaks forwards, linking up with Swarres who takes the ball to the by-line lifting a high ball into the near post, Reeves up to grab hold of the ball. Fox-Barker over to the left of defence now with Nebbitt off as the game moves into the last 15 minutes. Fensome played into the area coming in from the left, Reeves out to close the angle the ball blocked turned away for a corner kick.

GOAL! Players up from the back as the ball in clipped into the near side, Fensome attacking it turning the ball in on goal, Reeves with a reflex save stopping it with her leg, the ball loose in front of goal, Wade stealing in on it to stab the ball over the line to double Luton’s lead 0-2.

Elly Wade doubling Luton’s lead

Stevenage making a change with Makewell coming off, Lilly Kelly coming on to join the attack. Mulvaney sending a strike from distance onto the roof of the net. Fensome coming off for Luton along with Leighton, Stef Paci and Amy Martins coming on with 10 minutes left to play. Stevenage sending the ball long up the left for Corrigan to attack, Lewis with the legs to get back up the pitch put in the tackle to deny the cross.

Stevenage’s Anais Corrigan with Luton’s Shanice Lewis

Maddix put away into the box on the right for Luton closing in on goal Edge standing up to challenge getting a foot onto the ball Maddix catching her late getting penalised shown the yellow card. A painful one for Edge the defender struggling has to come off, Bodily dropping into defence, Makewell back on. The game stretched now Stevenage have to commit more going forwards risk the counter at the other end.

Tilbury getting the ball into Constantine on the right clips a diagonal ball long across the area into Corrigan advancing on the left looks to meet it on the volley a difficult chances lifts it over. Webster driving forwards bearing down on the box is cynically blocked, awarded the free-kick 25 yards out. Makewell over it curls her attempt wide of the right post. Moving into stoppage time.

GOAL! Luton break away down the left Martins on with the ball the cross curled in across the six yard box, Maddix, and Lewis busting a gut to get on the end of it throwing themselves at the ball, Lewis with the touch to drive the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to put Luton 3 goal up 0-3.

Shanice Lewis fires Luton into an unassailable 3 goal lead in stoppage time

Luton in control now having knocked the stuffing out of Stevenage, Paci closing Fox-Barker down as she looks for Corrigan on the left. Hudson holding onto the ball as Fox-Barker puts a deep cross into the penalty spot in the dying seconds. The whistle blows and Luton celebrate as they win the league cup to complete the double.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 0-3 Luton Town Ladies

A tight contest well contested in the 2nd half Luton pushing hard coming close to scoring a 2nd goal but it wouldn’t come until the final 10 minutes, Stevenage competing for the ball better 2nd half pressing for the equaliser for a long period before Wade got the all important 2nd goal. The 3rd coming in stoppage time as Luton broke with pace using their substitutes to good advantage.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Again several contenders but one winner in my mind. Both sides giving it there all despite the heat, a competitive had hard fought game. For Stevenage Mistie Fox-Barker had an excellent game in defence winning the ball, closing players down and got forwards well when she could to support the attack. Lucy Webster along side Rebecca Edge in central defence winning some vital tackles. Chloe Gunn playing in front of the defence getting stuck in enjoying the midfield battle with Luton. For Luton, Natasha Fensome was lively up front running into space looking for openings created numerous chances for herself and her teammates. Tsaianne Leander strong on the ball looking to get forwards take the ball to the Stevenage defence. Fiona Buttigieg got up well on the left to support the attack opened the scoring and defended well. The award though goes to Luton’s captain, Elly Wade strong at the back throughout, won numerous challenges intercepting the ball playing in to her midfielders and on hand to score the vital 2nd goal.

Luton Town Ladies 2024/25 ERWFL League Cup winners

Luton also collecting their league winning medals and trophy

Congratulations to Luton Town Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Cup along with the Premier Division title to do the double.

A good day out at Bedford, the finals days well attended, the crowd enjoying to fantastic matches. Credit to Bedford Town FC and the ERWFL committee members for the occasion. My thanks for all the assistance. A busy day no doubt stole just a few hours sleep so I could get both reports completed with a busy day at work ahead. But I like to get these things done while they’re fresh in my mind and the next game is never far away.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Hutton Ladies v Chelmsford City Women

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Sunday 11th May

ERWFL League Plate Final

Hitting the road with a long journey over to Bedford this Sunday for my first cup final double bill of the season, the ERWFL League Plate and Cup Finals, representing tiers 5 and 6 of the regional football pyramid in the East of England. First up the Plate final featuring the new Division One South champions, Hutton Ladies gunning for a league and cup treble taking on fellow league side Chelmsford City Women pushing for a 3rd place finish in their debut season in the ERWFL.

Two tasty looking finals on the cards with Premier Division sides, Stevenage FC Women and Luton Town Ladies going head to head later on this afternoon in the League Cup final. The Plate final no less an exciting prospect with 1st and 4th in Division One South going toe to toe. Both sides scoring plenty of goals whilst having the lowest joint conceded in the table.

The ERWFL Plate trophy

Hutton Ladies a familiar face at the ERWFL Plate final have covering the Essex side in more finals than anyone else. Are one of the longest established sides within the ERWFL too. Now riding the crest of a wave having won the Division One South title with games to spare to win promotion to the Premier Division. Losing just one league game along the way and way out in front in terms of goals scored, with the fewest conceded. Still have 4 games left to play such has been their dominance having been chasing the leading duo all season with games in hand as cup games built up. Reaching the final of the Essex Women’s trophy too, back on Weds 30th April over came Brentwood Town Women on penalties to lift the trophy.

Now aiming for a historic League and cup treble, not an easy thing to achieve by any means. Helped most certainly by having the leagues top scorer in your squad. Signing, Daisy Canny a proven goal threat where ever she’s been has fired home 38 goals for Hutton this season in just 20 appearances. Canny not the only goal threat within the side however with 3 others into double figures for the campaign, Lucy Critchell with 13, Emily Clarke with 12 and Holly Appleton on 11 all appearing the the top 10 goal scorers in Division One South.

Chelmsford City Women keen to join the ERWFL but wanting to do so as Essex Women’s Premier Division champions, that goal achieved last season, come up into regional football with a clutch of Essex sides joining ERWFL Division One South, by far the strongest of those sides joining the league from Essex, were for a good spell emerging as a likely title contender themselves but one win in their last 5 matches saw that slip away. Remain well placed to finish in the top 3, and that along with reaching a cup final is a good showing for their first go at this level. With a Reserves side competing in Essex Women’s Division Three.

Have an experienced squad with some players joining with higher league experience, such as midfielder, jay Blackie and run away top scorer, Zoe Rushen, firing in 25 goals so far this season from her 20 appearances the 2nd highest scorer in the league. Jasmine Cox the next closest with 10 goals coming in 4 matches at the start of the season while Blackie has been on target for 7 goals. Injuries to other key players haven’t helped, such as goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley and attacker, Broghan Kelly. Know they will have to be at their best to get the better of Hutton today. Hutton having strength in depth too, with a Reserves sides playing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and their new Development side storming to the title in their debut season in Essex Women’s Division Two.

Road to the Final

The sides knocked out of the early rounds of the League Cup going on to compete for the League Plate, both Chelmsford and Hutton receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition. Chelmsford drawn at home to face Histon Ladies the Cambridgeshire side, newly promoted along side Chelmsford, but into Division One North a tough tie on paper goals from Zoe Rushen and Shannon Kelly sealing a 2-0 win for the Essex side. Hutton on home turf taking on Hertfordshire side, Stevenage FC Women Development, Daisy Canny firing home a brace along with a goal for Abigail Clarke to secure a 3-1 win.

Onto the quarter finals, Chelmsford progressing without kicking a ball, drawn at home to Division One North side Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies an injury crisis for the Norfolk side seeing them have to forfeit the game. Hutton in comparison played out a 9 goal thriller away to Bedfordshire side, Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses. The hosts firing in 4 goals, Hutton were to come out on top winning it 5-4 thanks to a hat-trick from Canny and goals for Holly Appleton and Lucy Critchell.

Chelmsford at home in their semi-final taking on fellow newly promoted Essex side, Frontiers Ladies, despite ultimately struggling in tier six finishing in the bottom too the Harlow based side pushed Chelmsford hard for a spot in the final, Chelmsford winning it by a single goal, scored by Rushen. Hutton were again amongst the goals in their semi-final clash, this time a 7 goal thriller away to Division One North champions, Harpenden Town Women a meeting between the league respective top scorers too with Harpenden’s Sophia Amanor netting twice along with a goal for Jaime Curtain. Canny firing in another hat-trick however along with an Abigail Clarke goal seeing Hutton into the final 4-3

The Eyrie, home of Bedford Town FC the venue for today’s ERWFL Finals Day. The A428 closed this weekend making the trip from Norfolk a little longer than it needed to be. Not a bad run to Bedford nonetheless the carpark before the large open plan clubhouse and function room, lading onto the stadium itself. A large artificial playing surface offering good width. The main seated stand on one side offering some shade. smaller covered terraced stands dotted about the stadium with viewing all round. The bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drink. The weather exceptional, bright and sunny, been little rain around lately and set to continue for a while the sun cream most certainly needed today.

Hutton FC Ladies starting XI – Evie Carvell, Phoebe Keys, Izzy Crichton, Molly Bowness, Hayley Critchell, Maria Cabel Parades, Abi Clarke (C), Lucy Critchell, Emily Clarke, Holly Appleton & Daisy Canny. Subs – Charlotte Rutt, Isobel Boyd, Mia Lempriere & Georgia Hyland.

Hutton Ladies

Chelmsford City Women starting XI – Amy Mullett, Lauren Butcher, Shannon Kelly, Emma Rushen, Gaby Freedman (C), Rosie Coe, Helen Alder, Jay Blackie, Ellie Dopson, Kaci Crook & Zoe Rushen. Subs – Bec Hollocks, Georgia Sleep, Michaela Key, Lorna Dunne & Evie Payne.

Chelmsford City Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes, there will be 30 minutes added time and penalties if required.

Taking advantage of the shade by the stand for this mornings kick-off, Chelmsford in their away colours of navy blue and white to get the Plate final under way with Hutton lined up opposite wearing red coloured shirts with red shorts and red and white hooped socks. The ball played out to the left charged down by Hutton’s Holly Appleton, Hutton push forwards the ball put out to Appleton getting on the move right wing, Shannon Kelly moving in to close her down at left back for Chelmsford seeing the ball out for a throw.

Both sides getting after the ball early on competitive in the middle, Jay Blackie sliding in to tackle Hutton’s, Daisy Canny as se looks to get on the move with the ball, referee Jordan Blunt giving the free-kick. Captain Abi Barnes over the ball for Hutton on halfway launched up towards the top of the box, missed by the first defender bouncing up onside the box, Emma Rushen getting her leg up to hook the ball clear.

Hutton busy in attack getting the ball on down the right Appleton looking to push on a series of throws won as Hutton look to make progress, Canny looking to drive for the by-line break into the box, Chelmsford captain, Gaby Freedman diving in to take the ball behind for a corner kick. The delivery curled into the middle of goal high claimed well by goalkeeper Amy Mullett.

Hutton getting the ball out wide, Canny moving right looking to take it one cutting it back infield for Abi Clarke to run onto her trike from distance screwing high and wide. Chelmsford patient playing a few probing passes at the start looking to find a way through the Hutton defence, Rosie Coe sending the ball out to the right for Ellie Dopson, Phoebe Keys closing her down to see the ball out for a throw. Zoe Rushen looking to take the throw down into the box, winning her side a corner kick.

Lopped in from the right to the near post, goalkeeper, Evie Carvell coming for it punching it aback to the right, Hutton conceding a 2nd corner, Again the delivery is put high into the near post, Carvell again coming for it through bodies this time does well to deal with the threat. Hutton dangerous on the counter, Appleton looking to provide an outlet attacking on the right, Canny sending the ball into her path as they move the ball on rapidly, Kelly quick to close her down, Appleton looking to feed the ball inside, the pass cut out by Coe.

Chelmsford’s Shannon Kelly

Canny lively up top moving left and right looking to pull defenders with her create gaps for others to exploit. Kelly being kept busy with Appleton on the right, quickly in to close her down as she looks to get the ball under control. Kelly winning the ball at the back for Chelmsford left side sending in on up the line for Kaci Crook looks to push her way on into the box, Hayley Critchell coming in to put in the challenge slowing her down, before Izzy Crichton gets the ball clear.

Chelmsford captain, Gaby Freedman

Appleton gets clear on the right wing to race on to the by-line with the ball whipping a cross with pace into the six yard by, Emma Rushen throwing a leg forwards to block it then into defend again blocking the lose ball charging it down from close range as Emily Clarke looks to smash it in deflected behind to the left for a corner kick.

Chelmsford work the ball up the right played into the top of the D, Zoe Rushen looking to move across to the left find an opening, Hayley Critchell into the tackle the ball cleared away to the left, Crook retrieving it singing a cross back in on goal, headed clear. Hutton break forwards through the middle, Lucy Critchell putting it on for Abi Clarke, has Canny ahead of her 25 yards out, sees the ball into her feet well flicking it on into the right channel for Appleton to run onto inside the area closing in on goal puts her foot through the ball sending her strike into the side netting.

Lucy Critchell putting a diagonal ball into Appleton on the right drops her shoulder feigning to go down the wing inside checks inside moving towards the box, has Canny making a run in behind tries to pick her out, Freedman instead reading it, intercepting the pass. An intriguing contest, Chelmsford with an experienced defence looking to keep things tight at the back, Hutton looking to move the ball wide use the pitch to find a way in behind.

Helen Alder getting onto the ball centrally for Chelmsford laying it forwards for Cook in the left channel pulling out wide to deliver a cross into the six yard box, Zoe Rushen running in central her target the cross over hit cleared beyond the far post. Canny rushing in to steal the ball of Freedman as she looks to bring it out from the back, Canny surging down the right wing, Freedman recovering well throwing herself forwards to block the cross.

Appleton getting to the by-line again sending a vicious cross in along the face of the Chelmsford goal, Emma Rushen throwing her herself into make another vital block hooking the ball away. Chelmsford moving the ball right Coe linking up with Zoe Rushen and Dopson the cross played in along the top of the Hutton area deflected into the path of Alder, but before she can dig a shot away, Hayley Critchell moves in quickly to close her down.

Hutton attacker, Daisy Canny

Dopson and Zoe Rushen look to link up on the right as Chelmsford push forwards, Dopson lifting the ball into Rushen continuing her run in behind getting into the box, Rushen cushioning the header down into her path, in the clear however progress is halted by a raised flag, offside. A loose pass at the back from Hutton is presented straight to Crook 30 yards out central spins into the shot, Carvell moving across her goal can see it safely wide of her left post.

Hutton captain, Abi Clarke

Hutton bring the ball on quickly as they look to turn play around Abi Clarke pushing it on into Appleton right side she surges inside towards the top of the area cutting it back into the area for Canny as she makes the run to the near post, the angle closing Canny pulls the trigger, Emma Rushen moving in to block, the ball deflecting off the defender for a corner kick to the right.

Kelly keeping close tabs on Appleton right side kept busy, the youngster having the pace to skip in behind if giving half a chance, Kelly determined to limit those opportunities. Appleton put away down the right by Lucy Critchell racing to the by-line, whipping a cross into the box, Freedman at the near post throwing out a leg to cut the cross out, deal with the threat, as the referee calls for a drinks break, midway through the first half. Is hot out there approaching midday.

Gaby Freedman blocking the cross

Both sides putting alot of energy into the contest despite the heat looking to get the ball moving play resuming with a Chelmsford goal kick. Hutton build on the left Maria Cabel Parades sending the ball on for Canny to power her way into the box, Emma Rushen on her shoulder with a well timed tackle. Chelmsford counter Blackie through the middle with Alder the ball on to release Crook on the left taking the ball down to the by-line squares it into the near post, Zoe Rushen looking to get it under control quickly closed down by Hayley Critchell and Molly Bowness.

Lucy Critchell putting the ball on for Abi Barnes in the middle in the turn 30 yards out takes on the shot her effort dropping wide of the left post. Canny clipping the ball into the right wing releasing Appleton breaking clear running out of room, lifts a cross into the area but can only pick out the keeper. Chelmsford moving the ball up the right Lauren Butcher forwards into Dopson powering forwards threads an angled ball into the area Zoe Rushen in near side looking to run onto the ball her first touch a little to heavy allowing goalkeeper, Carvell to come and claim. Izzy Crichton gets back well to defend on Crook as the attacker looks to take Kelly’s pass on down the line.

GOAL! Hutton carrying a threat going forwards Canny out on the left with Clarke, given the ball drives into the area tangling with Rushen goes down, the referee pointing to the spot Penalty! Appleton placing the ball on the spot running up to smash the ball past the wrong footed keeper into the right of the net to put Hutton into the lead 1-0.

Holly Appleton firing Hutton into the lead from the penalty spot

Hutton breaking the dead lock from the spot in the 38th minute. Blackie seeing the ball into her feet of a Zoe Rushen layoff, 25 plus yards out, goes for goal stroking the ball in towards the left post, has Carvell scrambling across her line diving but her goal his safe the ball running narrowly wide. Zoe Rushen putting herself about inside the box looking to force a way through for Chelmsford taking the ball out to the left her angled shot back in caught by the keeper.

Chelmsford goalkeeper, Amy Mullett

Mullett moving out quickly to slide onto the ball as Canny is put through into the box left side, just reaching the ball first, Canny stumbling over her as her momentum takes her forwards, the keeper taking a painful blow down hurt, needs treatment a pause while she is assessed, but thankfully up on her feet and alright to play on.

GOAL! The clock ticking down towards the end of the first half, Bowness breaking up a Chelmsford attack into Lucy Critchell in midfield sends it on to Abi Clarke who clips a good diagonal ball out to the right to send Appleton racing in behind her cross from the by-line whipped into the six yard box, just missed by Canny coming in central, but not by Clarke running in at the far post beyond as she meets it well to turn it back across the keeper and in 2-0.

Emily Clarke doubling Hutton’s lead rushing over to celebrate with the cross provider, Holly Appleton.

Hutton doubling their lead late in the first half, Chelmsford making a change Dopson coming off, with Bec Hollocks coming on up top with Cook moving right, Alder out to the left. Chelmsford attack left Zoe Rushen out that side sending Crook on on the overlap into the box her shot on the angle blocked by Carvell as she rushes out to close her down, the rebound dropping to Rushen top corner right side drops her attempt at goal onto the roof of the net.

Coe getting the ball on through the middle up to Hollocks, Lucy Critchell back to defend for Hutton. Chelmsford pushing hard for a reply with seconds left in the first half, Zoe Rushen played in right of goal bearing down on the six yard box, Bowness moving in to challenge Rushen sending her shot wide just as the whistle blows, taking a knock for her efforts as Hutton head back to the changing rooms with a 2 goal advantage at the break.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 2-0 Chelmsford City Women

Hutton asking the question getting forwards well looking to turn the Chelmsford defence creating opportunities winning a penalty late in the first half to take the lead, following that up with another with minutes left to double the advantage. Chelmsford pushing for a late reply themselves but left frustrated having worked so hard in defence to keep the chances down. Experienced know Hutton’s pace could trouble them so have kept it tight. Now trailing 2-0 you would think would need an early goal 2nd half to apply a little pressure to Hutton who themselves will know a 3rd goal could put the game to bed.

No changes at the start of the 2nd half with Hutton getting things underway the ball played out to the left, Chelmsford moving in quickly to close it down little progress made. The ball lifted into Crook on the right for Chelmsford, moves forwards, Keys in to close her down play the ball off her for a throw for Hutton.

Lucy Critchell sending the ball into the area from 25 yards out looking to pick out Canny make a run from right to left to get in behind Mullett coming to close her down getting across her path to see the ball safely out for a goal kick. Zoe Rushen carrying the ball forwards for Chelmsford out on the right looking to play a one two off Hollocks outside the area, the return ball though cut out by Hutton’s Bowness.

Blackie winning the ball back in the middle for Chelmsford fed out to Zoe Rushen in the left channel, sends it forwards into the area Alder looking to break into the box after it, Carvell rushing out to close her down sliding in to make the blocking save.

Hutton goalkeeper, Evie Carvell

Hutton winning a corner following an Appleton attack on the right, a teasing delivery lifted in through the six yard box at an inviting height missed by everyone cleared beyond the far post. Hayley Critchell bringing the ball on from the back for Hutton sending it on up the left wing for Emily Clarke, Butcher in to slow her down on the by-line, Emily Clarke managing to lift a cross into the middle claimed well by Mullett.

Zoe Rushen on the attack for Chelmsford

Chelmsford winning a free-kick left of the circle, Hutton making a change before it is taken Abi Barnes coming off, Isobel Boyd coming on. The free-kick flighted up into the box left of goal, Coe looking to bring it down hit it on the turn can’t quite get it under control. Kelly defending on Appleton top of the area right of the goal as Canny looks to nudge the ball into her feet.

Boyd getting onto the ball for Hutton driving on through the middle played out to Appleton wide on the right her cross played into the far post from deep, Clarke running in to attack it just over her head. Alder wide left for Chelmsford pushing the ball into Zoe Rushen top of the area knocks it on for Hollocks over to the left with her strikes it on the angle, towards the near post, Carvell down low to make the save.

Emily Clarke

Chelmsford building a little momentum getting on with the ball Coe into Hollocks right her attempted cross striking a Hutton hand the free-kick awarded. Players forwards into the box as Crook floats the delivery in to the far post attacked as Chelmsford surge forwards en masse, Hollocks with the header, her effort close just over the ball a chance for Chelmsford to pull it back to 2-1 missed.

Appleton bombing on down Hutton’s right her cross flashed in high across the face of goal over Emily Clarke at the far post as she is closed down, going out past the far post a corner is given. Swung into the box taking a nasty deflection that sees the ball drop loose inside the six yard box in front of goal, Chelmsford scrambling at away for a 2nd corner even as Canny dives in on it.

Holly Appleton

The next delivery into the box high from the right defended by Blackie for Chelmsford. Hutton with players up around the box quick to win it back out to corner taker Hayley Critchell deep on the right her angled shot in on goal over the bar. Hutton pushing players on Appleton into Canny breaking into the box near post, Emma Rushen moving into the path of the shot to charge the ball down away for a corner kick.

Chelmsford’s, Emma Rushen

GOAL! The corner fired in across the six yard box long dropping beyond the far post, loud appeals going up for handball by Hutton as the ball is knocked down loose in front of goal even as Canny pounces on the loose ball and stabs it over the line to score Hutton’s 3rd, 3-0.

Daisy Canny arms aloft as she fires Hutton into a 3 goal lead

A huge blow for Chelmsford conceding a 3rd goal just past the hour mark, make a change bringing off Kelly, sending on Michaela Key to join Rushen in attack. Bowness on the move with the ball for Hutton getting up well on the right before being fouled by Blackie giving away the free-kick.

GOAL! Cabel Parades over the set-piece out wide on the left 30 yards out, runs up to the ball lifting a high ball in towards the top right corner, dipping late it fly’s over Mullett to creep under the bar to send Hutton into a 4 goal lead, Cabel Parades’ first goal of the season too! 4-0.

Maria Cabel Parades scores from her free-kick to put Hutton 4 nil up

Chelmsford hit with a sucker punch going 4 goals down, pick themselves up Coe putting the ball on Zoe Rushen left channel has Alder to her left wide Key looking to get into the box as the three combine passes, Key played in tackled Rushen latching onto the loose ball striking it past the keeper on the angle the ball cannoning down off the cross bar bouncing on the line and out as Hutton scramble it away for a corner kick.

The corner on the right swung into the six yard box attacked by Freedman a glancing header cleared at the far post drops top Coe outside the box left side her shot from range over the crossbar. The 2nd drinks break of the game called. Hutton refreshed after doubling their lead, knocking the wind out of their opponents in the process. Dopson coming back on for Chelmsford going over to the left replacing Alder.

Rosie Coe on the ball for Chelmsford

Zoe Rushen on the attack for Chelmsford on for Hollocks to drive into the box sending in out to the left for Dopson who turns her shot over the ball at the far post. Crook linking up with Key on the right for Chelmsford, Keys seeing it out for a throw. Chelmsford getting in to Hollocks central her shot from out side the box saved well by Carvell. Hutton sitting back a little now waiting for the right opportunity to pounce Lucy Critchell putting Appleton away down the right moving into the area bearing down on goal, Mullett coming to close her down sliding in to take the ball at her feet.

Chelmsford looking to counter Hollocks on through the middle into Zoe Rushen her strike from range dipping in front of the keeper, but Carvell under no pressure collects on the bounce. Space for Blackie to run into with the ball right side as Chelmsford counter a Hutton free-kick her shot in on goal from range held by the keeper. Blackie coming off for Chelmsford, Evie Payne coming on, Dopson coming in off the left with the ball at her feet taking on the 25 yard strike the ball brushing to roof of the net.

Lucy Critchell

Canny roaring her side on taking the ball on through the middle shifting it out to Emily Clarke on the left, her cross from the by-line screwed behind. Mia Lempriere on for Hutton, as Butcher defends on Clarke as she looks to get away on the left. Canny fouled in the centre circle winning the free-kick the ball lifted up to the top of her area, Coe winning the header for Chelmsford.

Chelmsford launch a counter attack, Crook central out to Zoe Rushen peeling to the right her shot on the angle straight at the keeper however. Crook taking the ball inside from the right for Chelmsford sending her strike onto the roof of the Hutton net. Georgia Hyland and Charlotte Rutt coming on to see the game out for Hutton. Can keep their shape invite Chelmsford on knowing the defence is tiring and Canny is looking to get hold of the ball in attack.

Carvell needing to come racing out of her box to clear as Zoe Rushen plays the ball long into the left channel. Key seeing the ball into her feet 20 yards out laying in into Zoe Rushen central to strike her attempt angling wide of the left post. Georgia Sleep coming on for Chelmsford replacing Emma Rushen. Chelmsford pushing hard to find a goal late in the game Sleep up with Key on the right the ball on for Rushen making a move to get into the area ahead of her, Keys with a well timed tackle on the edge of the area to get the ball clear for Hutton.

The clock fast ticking down Rushen with another attempt from range easily dealt with by Carvell. Clarke bringing the ball on left side for Hutton swung into the six yard box, Canny up stretching to head it near side attempting to drop it for Appleton closing in of the far post, Mullett instead lunging forwards to snatch it into her gloves. Lorna Dunne coming on for Chelmsford in the closing stages replacing Crook. Little time time left the game stretched, Canny looking to keep hold of it up top for Hutton run down the clock out to the right, Freedman clearing for Chelmsford. The final whistle blows and Hutton celebrate as they complete a historic treble winning the ERWFL Plate.

Full time Hutton Ladies 4-0 Chelmsford City Women

Hutton putting in the running despite the heat getting players on well throughout using the flanks moving the ball quickly creating chances first half before eventually taking the lead from the penalty spot through Holly Appleton, Emily Clarke on the end of Appleton’s cross to make it 2-0 just before half-time. Chelmsford frustrated working hard in defence to try and limit Hutton’s threat, came within inches of pulling a goal back before Hutton went on to add a 3rd themselves from a set-piece Daisy Canny with her 35th of the season, another goal following soon after making thing’s comfortable as Maria Cabel Parades scored her first goal of the season. Hutton could sit back then invite Chelmsford on, their opponents having the stuffing knocked out of them rallied created opportunities but couldn’t get on the scoresheet themselves 4-0 maybe harsh but Hutton kept their energy levels up throughout.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day, certainly a tough one a few contenders on both sides some good performances to mention a fine effort by all in the heat. Firstly for Chelmsford, Emma Rushen was superb at the back putting in the blocks intercepting crosses and winning her tackles. Gaby Freedman too with a number of vital interceptions. Rosie Coe moved the ball well in the middle getting it out to the wide players linking up the attack. Zoe Rushen up top worked tirelessly to find an opening often outnumbered but stuck to the task. For Hutton Hayley Critchell won the ball well at the back coming in to close players down limiting chances. Lucy Critchell likewise in midfield covering the ground back to defend and bringing the ball forwards. Daisy Canny in attack moved across the back line throughout seeking openings pulling players with her always looking for a goal scoring opportunity. The award goes to Holly Appleton provided a great outlet out wide on the right getting on with the ball, opening the scoring from the spot and setting up the 2nd goal to put Hutton into a commanding position.

Hutton Ladies 2024/25 ERWFL League Plate winners

Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL Plate final and with it completing a historic treble.

My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups, the staff at Bedford Town FC for their assistance and the ERWFL committee members, a great final to start the day with another mouth watering clash to come.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Norwich City Women

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Sunday 4th May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

Sponsored by Harrod Sport

The finals coming thick and fast now, following on from a double bill from Cambridgeshire in midweek, the action comes from Norfolk this Sunday with a trip to Carrow Road to watch the final of the Norfolk County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport, a repeat of the final from 2 season’s ago with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies taking on Norwich City Women who are aiming to make it a hat-trick of trophy wins in the competition.

A busy Sunday at Carrow Road with Norfolk FA hosting their 3 senior county cup finals at the ground, the men’s junior and senior cup finals followed by the women’s cup final kicking off at 6:45pm. A fantastic opportunity for all sides involved to get to play at the ground of the leading football club in the county, Championship side, Norwich City FC. No doubt a busy day for the staff at Norfolk FA but as they so often do, lay on a great occasion.

Today’s prize

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies enjoying great success in the competition in their short history, reaching their first final in their debut season in, followed that with two more final appearances at Carrow Road, losing twice against Norwich and once against Wymondham Town Ladies. Knocked out by Norwich at the last 4 stage last season. Now make it 4 final appearances in 5 seasons as they return to Carrow Road. Something of a transitional period as Mulbarton look to introduced younger players to the 1st team squad playing in ERWFL Division One North.

That along with injuries to key players plus a build up of fixtures due to their pitch not being available for a while seeing games called off saw Mulbarton near the wrong end of the table although with the cushion of games in hand get things going in the right direction to push on up the table and are on course for a 5th placed finish. Rebekah Lake remains one of the leading goal scorers in the county and once again has done the business for Mulbarton in front of goal despite a period out injured has 15 goals to her name from 19 appearances. Midfielder Alanta Griffith also amongst the goals this season netting 8.

Norwich City Women looking to make it 3 county cup wins in a row and 8th overall since the competition became independent of Suffolk back in the 2010/11 season, winning the 1st 4 finals returned after a spell out of the competition to win it again in 2021 for the 5th time before making in back to back cup successes at Carrow Road. Fresh from playing at the ground too having faced QPF FC Women in their final FAWNL South East Division One winning 3-0 to secure runners-up spot for a 2nd successive season. Ultimately 2 points behind new champions Real Bedford Women frustrating to some degree the clubs ambitions seeking promotion to tier 3, with just one promotion spot up for grabs it isn’t easy, but remain focused bringing young talent through will be up their challenging again next campaign.

Natasha Snelling named as the Norwich, Player of the Season winning the award a legend within the club, leading the way with the goals this season, with 15 from 28 matches. Holly Kennard joining the club last season from Sudbury has 11 goals this season with Shannon Shaw netting 7. Norwich were without influential player Ellie Smith for a good chunk of the season through injury and her goals have been sorely missed, back to full fitness now has 4 goals from the 17 she has featured in. Another county cup final and the retirement of another Norwich captain, Anna Larkins last time around, it’s the final game for new captain, Megan Todd as she announced her retirement from playing, establishing herself as a fan favourite in her six seasons with the club, influential on and off the field, despite suffering a few injury set backs along the way.

Road to the Final

The higher league placed clubs entering the county cup in the latter rounds, Mulbarton beginning their run to the final in the 3rd Round of the competition drawn at home to fellow ERWFL Division One North side, King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Struggling for results at the bottom of the table Mulbarton came out strong to wrap a comprehensive win, Rebekah Lake firing home 4 goals. Victoria McNorton bagging herself a brace, their were goals to for Alanta Griffith, Lucy Lincoln and Tallie Chillystone in a 9-0 win.

Onto the quarter finals Mulbarton were in the road taking on Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Bure Valley Women. Lake once again amongst the goals netting twice as did Griffith with another of the clubs new young players, Scarlett Derrett also on the scoresheet in a 5-1 victory. Norwich City Women entering the county cup at the quarter final stage beginning their defence of the trophy away to another Norfolk Division One side, Aylsham FC Women. The hosts taking a shock lead in the game before Norwich came back to equalise in the 21st minute through, Eloise Morran. Natasha Snelling, Lauren Hailes and a late first half strike from Lara Densley seeing Norwich 4-1, Shannon Shaw was to add 2 more goals in 2nd half stoppage time to see Norwich advance 6-1.

The semi-finals of the being held on neutral ground on successive evenings a The FDC in Bowthorpe. First up Mulbarton who were paired against another ERWFL Division One North side and tough opponent, Thetford Town Ladies. Goalless at the break, Laura Hedtke was on hand on the follow up to turn the ball home off a Lake effort to put Mulbarton into the lead in the 0th minute. Thetford pushing Mulbarton all the way 1-0 going into the final 10 minutes before lake lifted the ball over the keeper to make it 2-0, Sophie Jermy adding a 3rd to see Mulbarton into another Carrow Road final. Norwich taking on Wroxham Women, having beaten the ERWFL Premier Division side in last season’s final. Wroxham keen to try and get to Carrow Road for a 2nd time proved tough to break down with a single goal winning the match coming from Isabelle Moore to put Norwich into a 3rd successive final.

Carrow Road

Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road Stadium the venue for this evening’s women’s cup final. As I said fantastic the players get to enjoy the experience of playing at such a prestigious ground. The South Stand open to supporters for the match, the food stalls open below, the media on the opposite I had the appetite for a pie so headed across the pitch to get one, very nice it was too. The pitch as you’d expect immaculate, holding up well despite two games already. The weather much cooler than the two finals in midweek the mini heatwave passing by still mild however a few showers around but not too bad over all.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Megan Gowing, Leah Brown, Holly Farrow, Lucy Lincoln, Megan Belsey, Laura Hedtke, Victoria McNorton, Alanta Griffith, Scarlett Derrett, Tallie Chilleystone & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Melissa Belsey, Luka Goodfield, Sophie Jermy, Molly Stevenson & Jo Hooper.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Norwich City Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill, Ellie Bishop, Izzy Moore, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss, Eloise Morran (C), Sienna Booty, Lara Densley, Millie Daviss, Ellie Smith & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling, Freya Symonds, Lauren Tomlinson & Olivia Cook.

Norwich City Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the final goes straight to penalties.

This evening’s referee, Francesca Catchpole who follows in her mother Lorraine’s footsteps having refereed last season’s women’s cup final. A quality striker in her own right too, Mulbarton being one of the clubs she has featured for in the past.

Captain’s Eloise Morran and Rebekah Lake with this evening’s match officials

An injury blow for Mulbarton leading into this evenings final losing midfielder engine, Ellie Hunter to a nasty ligament injury away to Thetford in the league just 10 days ago. Goalkeeper, Megan Gowing also suffering a serious ankle injury in that game, but able to start this evening, have Jo Hooper on the bench as standby keeper should she be required. Norwich without a few too including Holly Kennard who scored twice on Sunday against QPR. Norwich still able to name a strong bench including Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling and Freya Symonds, Eloise Morran handed the captains armband starting this evenings final.

It’s Mulbarton attacking the River end to get the final underway wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up opposite in their traditional yellow and green kit. The ball clipped long into the right channel as captain Rebekah Lake makes a run forwards, Ellie Bishop at left back heading the ball back upfield for Norwich. The ball send diagonally out to the right wing, Millie Daviss looking to get forwards, Holly Farrow closing her down for Mulbarton the ball out for a throw in.

Norwich looking to press the ball high early on have Mulbarton pushed back into their own box with Hope Struss at the back on the ball having plenty of options in front of her to range her pass to. Puts it forwards into the left flank for Bishop looking to bomb on, the ball skipping up off the grass wrong footing full back Leah Brown, Bishop escaping in behind turning to burst into the box, top corner, Laura Hedtke in to close her down block the ball before she can line up a shot.

Norwich getting forwards well the full backs pushing on the ball fed out to the right down the line for Daviss on the by line her cross cut back into the box, evading goalkeeper Megan Gowing as she comes near post, loose for a moment in front of an empty goal, Brown leaps in to hook it clear for Mulbarton. A nervous start from Mulbarton dropping deep inviting Norwich on, the ball clipped into box from Moore on the right into Ellie Smith at the near post back to goal looking to cushion the ball down, three Mulbarton defenders converge on her before she can do anything with it.

GOAL! Bishop with another marauding run down the left gets in behind cutting into the area closed down lays it back to the top of the area for Lara Densley inside the D, she takes on the 1st time strike the ball rifled in towards goal rising past the keeper, crashes down off the crossbar, might have crossed the line then very close either way as Gowing tried to get to it knocked down to the right post players rushing in to try and scramble it away Morran amongst the melee coming in to attack as Moore looks to keep the ball in play stabbing out a foot the ball squeezed past bodies over the line 0-1.

Captain, Eloise Morran opening the scoring for Norwich

Norwich taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A blow for Mulbarton haven’t settled look nervous as Norwich build from halfway again, breaking down the right Ceri Flye from the back on for Daviss who wins her side a corner on the right. Clipped in high to the near post area, Hedtke getting a strong head on the ball to clear for Mulbarton.

Bishop lively out on the left for Norwich, linking up with Smith drives inside getting into the box, but is run off the ball as it runs out of play for a goal kick. Bishop looking to get in behind again wide left of a Strauss pass from the back, Mulbarton hold their line to catch her offside. Strauss and Flye with plenty of time on the ball at the back for Norwich usually up on half way, Flye right lays it on for Moore to clip a cross from the angle into the near post, Shannon Shaw looking to attack the header knocking the ball on wide across goal out beyond the far post.

Smith getting the ball into Densley coming left runs in on for Bishop on the wing takes the shot on from the angle, driven straight at the keeper, Gowing getting her gloves around the ball. Flye combining with Moore and Daviss on the right the cross lifted into the box, Hedtke winning the clearance for Mulbarton look to try and release Scarlett Derrett on the right wing, Strauss getting across her path to hold her up, no way through.

Laura Hedtke moving in to tackle Norwich’s Ellie Smith

Alanta Griffith central in to make the blocking tackle on Smith central comes away with the ball, her forward pass for Tallie Chilleystone making a left channel run cut out by Flye at the back for Norwich. Mulbarton pushed back struggling to get anything going forwards the ball often coming straight back, Bishop charging on down the left given the ball sending a diagonal ball into the box, Lucy Lincoln under it to head clear for Mulbarton.

Norwich remain on top Densley 30 yards out central picking out Flye coming on from the back going right sends in on down the line for Daviss she turns back up the line to lay it back to Shaw edge of the box right side fires her shot over the crossbar.

Norwich attacker, Shannon Shaw

GOAL! Norwich merciless coming on with abandon get on down the right Daviss pushing down the line the ball at her feet turns it into the box, Smith bursting inside towards the penalty spot stealing in on the ball unmarked to turn it past the keeper and send Norwich into a 2 goal lead. 0-2.

Elle Smith sends Norwich into a 2 goal lead

Norwich 2 goals to the good inside the opening quarter hour looking strong. Bishop charging after the ball down the left flanks, Brown sliding in to make the tackle the pair colliding Bishop coming off the worst wasn’t a pleasant sound knees coming together or shin pads taking the brunt. Either way Francesca Catchpole awarding Norwich the free-kick. Bishop up on her feet okay for now. Densley over the set-piece outside the box takes on the strike, doesn’t get it right, turns in disgust before it’s even cleared the crossbar.

Norwich pushed up Smith outside the D bringing down a goal kick on for Sienna Booty top of the area, closed down by Lincoln, the loose ball running back to Smith right of the D goes to hit it, smashing the shot over the bar. Brown defending on Bishop as Strauss looks to release her in behind on the left. Bishop combining with Densley on the left for Norwich, swinging a teasing cross into the near post, Megan Belsey getting her head on the ball for Mulbarton, Hedtke attempting to bring it away, closed down by Smith.

Norwich quick to win the ball back everyone bar Strauss and Flye inside the Mulbarton half build through the middle Morran with Booty out to the right Shaw with Moore the former attempting to drop the ball in at the near post Daviss looking to steal in to attack it, Gowing getting down to smother the ball.

GOAL! Midway through the first half Norwich break away down the left to add a 3rd goal, it’s Bishop racing in behind, pace taking the ball on towards the corner whipping an early cross into the top of the six yard box just beyond Shaw running in near side, but straight into Booty’s path running in beyond to meet the ball and lift it up into the roof of the net to score. 0-3.

Sienna Moore meeting Bishop’s cross to fire Norwich into a 3 goal lead

Norwich ruthless 3 goals up, Mulbarton in danger of getting overwhelmed in defence need to find a foot hold in the game somehow. Norwich get on down the left Smith over with Densley and Bishop the ball crossed into the near post Belsey defending for Mulbarton, Booty looking to get after the clearance as it drops inside the D, McNorton in on her to make the blocking tackle.

Francesca Catchpole refereeing this evenings final

Play waved on as Smith driving on with the ball goes down inside the box the ball going away to the right lofted back in near post Shaw makes contact the ball dropping at the right post Gowing moving in to push it away, hooked clear Mulbarton can’t get any distance on it Norwich come straight back, Daviss in possession on the right, Farrow challenging the ball out for a throw. A high ball in to the top of the area, Booty looking to bring it down, her lay off cut out.

Mulbarton’s Leah Brown

Everyone back behind the ball for Mulbarton, Hedtke on for Lake the ball lost in the middle 30 yards out Booty running in to strike the ball be effort put straight in at the keeper, Gowing getting hold of the ball. Hedtke defending another Norwich corner at the near post, Mulbarton attempt to break out on their right, Bishop snuffing the opportunity out for Norwich. Strauss into Smith taking the ball away to the right linking up with Daviss her cross lifted into the six yard box, Gowing under pressure from Shaw claiming the ball.

Daviss running onto a diagonal ball clipped out to her advancing in the right cuts it back inside to the top of the box looking for Shaw, closed down by Lincoln, Booty snatching hold of the loose ball top of the D laying it off to Smith on her right her shot flies narrowly over Gowing’s crossbar.

Rebekah Lake looknig to get forwards for Mulbarton

Mulbarton have been under constant pressure at last they mount an attack the ball fired on up the left into Derrett gives it to Lake ahead of her racing on right channel, drives for the Norwich area, has Griffith making a run inside the box looking to come across the near post, Lake sending the ball into her path, Griffith bearing down on goal striking the ball in at goal rising, Quantrill called into action throwing up her glove to turn the ball wide for a corner kick!

An opportunity for Mulbarton to bring a few players forwards for the resulting corner the ball fired in long through the six yard box met by Lincoln heading the ball goal wards knocked down, Quantrill sharp getting a glove down to the ball deflecting it away for a corner on the left. This delivery in high to the near post dealt with by Smith for Norwich.

Something for Mulbarton to feed on their fans too encouraging them on. Have a throw on the left knocked on into the area, Lake moving for it central, Bishop going with her getting the tackle in to get the ball away for Norwich. Bishop getting on down the left has support from Densley and Shaw her cross fired into the near post 6 yards out intercepted by Belsey the clearance won by Strauss sends the ball out to the right Moore getting hold of it getting inside the defence into the box to shoot from the angle Gowing getting down to make the save holds onto the ball.

Belsey forced to concede a corner as Norwich advance well on the right. The delivery going long, Brown looking to bring it away for Mulbarton. Bishop throwing herself into the challenge in an attempt to stop her stays down in clear discomfort looked to have jarred her knee. Morran putting the ball out of play so she can receive treatment the physio indicating that she needs to come off with 40 minutes played.

Is a straight swap at left back with Lauren Tomlinson coming on. Takes over where Bishop left off looking to take the ball on down the flank into the corner, Derrett tracking back with Brown to tackle slow things down. Tomlinson winning a corner in Norwich’s next attack. Out on the left Densley swinging the ball high into the near post, Gowing getting her fists up pushing it away to the right, Densley gathering it sends n inside for Booty 20 yards out to dink one over the top for Smith looking to get in right of goal, Derrett going with her getting something on the ball both closing in on the keeper can’t risk a back pass, takes the ball beyond Gowing across goal before hooking it away.

Millie Daviss attacking on the right for Norwich

Gowing with another good claim for Mulbarton inside her six yard box as Moore sends Daviss’ layoff into the box. Griffith latching onto the ball getting in the move right sending it on for Derrett, plays it on for lake in attack pulling off Strauss in an attempt to get into the box, Flye though running around on the cover getting to the pass first as the ball enters the box.

Tomlinson races away down the left with the ball up to the by-line sending a vicious cross back across the top of the six yard box just beyond Densley and Booty who had burst on to try and get forwards, Chilleystone bringing it under control beyond the pair clearing for Mulbarton. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half. Lake getting onto the ball on the drive central for Mulbarton, checks her run before lifting it on for Derrett 25 yards out to the right of the area, shifts the ball between her feet looking to get on into the area, Morran coming in to close her down winning the tackle for Norwich.

Norwich’s Ceri Flye

Smith coming left with the ball for Norwich fed on down the wing for Tomlinson to take on whips another dangerous ball into the six yard box swerving through the air, Gowing doing well dropping forwards to see the ball into her gloves, pops out for a split 2nd with Shaw lurking but Gowing is quick to react snatching it back into her midriff.

Norwich coming no right side Daviss looking to send Smith racing clear into the box right of goal, the flag going up straight away as Gowing goes down to smother the ball, Smith’s sliding in colliding with the keeper, a painful one for Gowing up gingerly but looks to be alright to carry on. One last attack for Norwich, Tomlinson on the left 25 yards out squared inside for Shaw looks to help it on into the top of the area for Daviss, Lincoln up win her winning the header to get the ball away.

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-3 Norwich City Women

Norwich head into the tunnel holding a comfortable lead at the break, on the front foot right from the off, Mulbarton a little nervous at the start giving them a little too much respect dropping off into their box inviting them on Norwich able to get players on at will overload the flanks, winning it back easily with the outlet ball not on. Racing into a 3 goal lead looking like they might overwhelm Mulbarton, their opponents rallied fighting hard inside their area to try and stem the tide broke away to create a very good opportunity of their own giving them a much needed shot of confidence. Alot to do 2nd half if they are to get back into the game and you feel Norwich can move up a gear if they want.

Bishop giving a good fitness check at the break as her injury is assessed, Tomlinson back out wearing a bib so looks as if they will be swapping 2nd half. Mulbarton too making changes at the start of the 2nd half bring off, Brown, McNorton and Megan Belsey, send on her twin sister Melissa along with Sophie Jermy and Luka Goodfield. Norwich to get the 2nd half underway, rolled into Morran goes left with the diagonal ball for Bishop, puts it on for Densley ahead of her, Belsey forcing her back put inside for Flye pushing up right on for Daviss on the right wing her cross swept into across the top of the area intercepted by Lincoln.

Norwich up and around the Mulbarton area winning a free-kick the the left of the box 30 yards out, the ball chipped in over the top, Shaw looknig to steal in on it stoops to head the ball goal wards sends it straight at the keeper. Mulbarton in to defend the ball high up the pitch, Goodfield’s tackle dropping to Jermy 25 yards out central, her strike charged down by Strauss.

Norwich still looking to get players on down the wings, Moore on the right overlapping Daviss her cross turned in behind at the near post. Shaw bringing the ball down for Norwich sending the pass right for Daviss her cross deep into the area falling for Densley left of goal can’t bring it down into her feet to get a shot away before it is snatched away by the Mulbarton defence. Away to the left soon back with Norwich the low cross driven in central, Griffith bringing it away for Mulbarton.

Lake turning with the ball inside the Norwich half gets on the move going into the left channel, holding the ball up as Chilleystone races on to support the ball inside reaching her she looks to pick out Griffith to her right, Moore cutting pass out for Norwich. Norwich getting their crosses all wrong at the start of the 2nd half, Shaw’s the 4th put behind the Mulbarton goal.

GOAL! The game a little more open 2nd half Griffith looknig to get closer to Lake up front the ball fed into lake 25 yards out sees it into her feet turns to push away left though the middle before cutting the pass back out to the right into Griffiths outside the box closing in on the area shapes to shoot catching it sweetly to send it arrowing past Quantrill into top corner! 1-3!

Alanta Griffith with superb strike for Mulbarton

The Mulbarton fans erupt in celebration as Griffith races over to them in celebration, the first goal Norwich have conceded in a county cup final at Carrow Road. Mulbarton pulling a goal back in the 50th minute. Norwich press down the right Daviss putting the ball in across the top of the area, Morran running onto the ball looking to hit it, Hedtke moving in to charge the shot down, Morran snatching at the rebound pulling it wide of the left post.

Norwich’s centre backs still afforded time on the ball able to carry it on Flye driving on right side into towards the top corner of the area firing a dangerous ball in towards the far post dropping Densley racing in trying to meet it on the volley can’t quite get there. Mulbarton working hard in defence, Norwich coming forwards Daviss linking up with Moore in the right. Densley bringing the ball in from the left across the Mulbarton D, sends it into Booty inside the box who storms back across the area looking for an opening, none on shifts in into Shaw out on the left who takes on the shot from the angle, driven in low towards goal, Gowing right behind it down low to save at her near post.

Norwich lively getting the ball on pressing and probing Smith moving inside to play the ball into Flye looking to get into the box right side, Chilleystone closing her down for Mulbarton, the ball deflected central for Smith to latch onto inside the D, lifts her shot over the bar. Daviss racing clear on the right flashes a pacy ball across the face of the Mulbarton goal, Shaw slipping as she goes for it not making contact. Mulbarton look to break forwards the ball from Griffiths into Lake, Strauss moving in to close her down sending the ball out for a throw.

GOAL! Norwich hit Mulbarton on the counter winning the ball on the throw right side Daviss put away into space on halfway racing forwards drives all the way into the box bearing down on goal, Gowing stays back looking to set herself no one can reach Daviss as she shoots sending the ball in across the keeper to find the opposite corner 1-4.

Millie Daviss breaking away to score for Norwich

Norwich restoring their 3 goal lead on the hour. Norwich making a change switching captains with Morran coming off handing the armband to Megan Todd as she runs onto the pitch to make her final appearance for Norwich. The goal’s getting both sets of fans going 2nd half in good voice a great attendance too with 956 in the stand. Flye breaks down the right for Norwich looking to exchange passes with Moore the return pass however sees the central defender flagged offside.

Gowing pulling off a fantastic double save as Norwich thrust forwards Todd moving central from the left into Smith who lays it across to Daviss right of goal with Moore going beyond her the ball into her feet shoots on the angle, Gowing throwing out her left glove to turn the low shot away to the opposite side, Shaw looking to get onto the end of it striking the ball back in across goal, the keeper throwing out a foot to deflect the ball behind.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Megan Gowing

The corner from Densley on the left half cleared at the near post, Densley looking to fire it back in on the angle, Gowing across to the near post takes the ball down cleanly. Norwich ringing the changes midway through the 2nd half bringing Tomlinson back on along with Freya Symonds, Olivia Cook and Natasha Snelling, coming off are, Daviss, Moore, Booty and Densley. Lincoln penalised for obstruction as she impedes Shaw’s attempt to get into the box left of the D. Snelling over the free-kick with an early chance to test the keeper, gets it on target but lacking the pace or height to trouble Gowing.

Chilleystone getting the ball into Griffith inside the Norwich half she looks to try and play Lake in behind as she burst away into the right channel, the ball launched forwards, Quantrill however able to chase out to the top of the area see the ball safely into her gloves before Lake can pounce. Mulbarton making a triple switch bringing off Chilleystone, Farrow and Hedtke on come Brown, McNorton and Molly Stevenson.

Norwich building on the left the ball rolled inside to Todd, 25 yards out encouraged to shoot, sends her shot in Gowing right behind it to save. The game more open as Mulbarton are prepared to get players forwards to try and support Lake up top Norwich alive to the quick counter however Tomlinson left side on for Symonds the cross driven in low to the near post, Gowing dropping forwards onto the ball.

GOAL! Norwich up on the left winning a throw, have Tomlinson on now, known for her long throws level with the top of the area launches in into the box dropping for Bishop to hit on the volley as she turns sends it arrowing into the top corner 1-5.

Emily Bishop volleying home Norwich’s 5th

Norwich extending their lead with 15 minutes of regular time left to play. Press on the left forcing Mulbarton into conceding a corner. Symonds to angle the ball into the near post dealt with by Goodfield behind for a 2nd corner. Cleared again at the near post dropping for Smith top of the area, sees two attempts charged down before the ball is cleared away to the right for a throw.

Todd putting the ball into Snelling out to Symonds wide left her into Shaw at the near post attempts to lay it on for Snelling closing in, Jermy getting in the way to clear for Mulbarton. Lincoln cutting out a Smith pass inside the D to Snelling the ball behind for a corner kick, taken short on the left the cross whipped into the six yard box attacked but the flag is up. Norwich getting around the box everyone is looking to tee up Todd for a strike on goal Bishop into Symonds central on for Todd shifts it out to Tomlinson pushing on down the left back into Symonds corner of the area, put inside for Todd she pokes it on for Smith pulling in behind at the left post her low strike trapped by Gowing as she dives forwards.

GOAL! Norwich getting the ball into Cook out wide on the right, Has Snelling running in central as she looks to play the ball into the box her cross long angling high across the keeper falling beyond her into the far corner add another goal 1-6.

Olivia Cook scoring Norwich’s 6th

Mulbarton bring Megan Belsey back on replacing Lincoln in defence with less than 10 minutes left to play, Chilleystone back on to for Derrett. Make a keeper change too with Gowing coming off and Jo Hooper coming on to make her final appearance for Mulbarton. Flye on the move with the ball for Norwich right side flashed into the top of the box for Snelling she attempts to thread Smith in between the defence in on goal but the flag is up against her immediately.

The ball given to Todd outside the D, closed down squeezes it out to Symonds pulling left her low cross into the box claimed by Hooper as she goes to ground at her near post. Griffiths finding the energy to get the ball on through the middle for Lake in attack looks to drive out left into the channel get past Flye into the box, the defender stays on her however to put in the challenge nullify the attack.

Smith sliding it at the near post sends the ball wide as Bishop breaking down the left sends the ball into the box. Smith with another opportunity moments later as Norwich come right, Cooks cross flashed into the six yard box, Smith can’t get a touch as she closes down the keeper. Mulbarton keep going trying to get an opportunity going forwards, Griffith is dead on her feet though as she gets the ball into Lake who gives her the return pass 30 yards out, tries to pick out Chilleystone to her right, Tomlinson tracking back cutting the pass out.

Bishop coming down the right wing cuts the ball back into the top of the area for Cook right of the D, angles the ball into the far post Shaw going in to head it can’t get a touch. Shaw from distance with an ambitious attempt to lob the ball over the keeper seeing the ball land on the roof of the net. Into stoppage time just 2 mins of what has been an intense 2nd half.

Brown defending to see the ball out for a corner kick for Mulbarton, swung into the top of the area from the right, Griffith defending for Mulbarton put back out wide, Norwich win it back the diagonal ball curled back into the box Todd racing in six yards out, Hooper snatching it off her feet.

GOAL! Norwich driving on till the end a burst into the area from the left no sure who was brought down but either way, Catchpole points to the spot, Penalty! Straight away the call is it has to be Todd to take it, initially walks away though, more to calm herself down than anything else, never in doubt as she places the ball on the spot and scores her final Norwich goal wrong footing the keeper to place it into the left of the goal 1-7.

Megan Todd scoring from the penalty spot.

More or less the final action of the game as the whistle blows up and Norwich win the cup for the 3rd successive season. Celebrating in front of their fans.

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 1-7 Norwich City Women

Norwich starting strong never let off the pace throughout taking an early lead able to get players on at will getting into a 3 goal lead before Mulbarton launched a meaningful attack coming close themselves, fighting hard in defence given some encouragement for the 2nd half. Alanta Griffith with a superb strike to pull a goal back early in the 2nd half before Millie Daviss broke away to restore Norwich’s 3 goal cushion. Emily Bishop and Olivia Cook extending the lead before Todd from the penalty spot put the icing on the cake. Mulbarton showing a little too much respect to Norwich early on in were danger of getting overwhelmed recovered well and when they took the game to Norwich showed what they were capable of.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match two clear contenders with a number of other performances of note. Firstly for Mulbarton the whole team battled hard in defence. Lucy Lincoln with a number of vital wins inside the box. Laura Hedtke too helping out in defence won her fair share of tackles. Alanta Griffith covered the ground getting back to help in defence and trying to get on to support Lake in attack, scoring a goal at Carrow Road that’ll live long in the memory. Megan Gowing with some crucial saves. For Norwich get forwards at will at time Ellie Smith all over the place coming for the ball driving forwards and linking up play. Eloise Morran opening the scoring got hold of the ball kept Norwich on the front foot. Emily Bishop down the left got forwards well pushing in behind creating numerous chances and getting on the score sheet pushed it close but the award goes to Millie Daviss won it on the night and had a fantastic game on the right, constantly available got on well with the ball and broke away to score a fantastic goal.

Millie Daviss – winning the Player of the Match award

Norwich City Women, 2024/25 Norfolk Women’s Cup winners

Congratulations to Norwich City Women on winning the Norfolk Women’s Cup for a 3rd successive season.

No doubt a long day for the staff at Norfolk FA with 3 finals completed, my thanks to all for their assistance and allowing me to cover the game as always much appreciated. Many congratulations to Megan Todd on her career been a pleasure to watch her play. Jo Hooper too a legend in her own right with some great memories to take from the game.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge Rangers WFC v Ely City Women

Thursday 1st May

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final

Hot on the heels from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final on Wednesday evening, comes the Women’s Junior Invitation Cup final, this time a trip over to Histon FC’s, Bridge Road Stadium, being contested this season by Cambridgeshire Division One side, Cambridge Rangers WFC and Division Three side, Ely City Women.

The Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridgeshire’s 2nd county cup competition, like most county FA’s giving sides knocked out in the early rounds of the senior competition an opportunity to compete for silverware.

The Women’s Junior Invitation Cup

Cambridge Rangers WFC are one of the longest established clubs within the Cambridgeshire Women’s County leagues having had mixed fortunes in that time the club very much on a upward curve at the moment expanding in numbers enough to form a Reserves side last season, played in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Three. The 1st team playing a Division One currently 9th in the table but despite having mixed results in the league have saved their best performances for the cup competitions, reaching the semi-finals of the League Cup, but going one better in the Junior Invitation Cup. Ali Smethurst the leading goal scorer with 8 goals to her name with Daniela Lewis and Ellen Ferguson on 5 each.

Ely City Women are another side enjoying an upward curve closing in on completing their 3rd season have grown over that period a tough debut campaign near the bottom of the Division Three table a change of management bringing a change of form and results, Ely City FC as a club itself having long supported women’s football in Cambridgeshire now with a women’s side itself, finishing 3rd in the table last season Ely have been at the top or in and around it all season, in a title battle with Cardea Ladies Reserves and Saffron Walden Community Women, with 2 games left to play. Bringing new players into the club have scored plenty of goals this season. Kelly Docwra closing in on 30 goals for the season has 29 from her 18 appearances. Danni Youngs has scored 19 times and Poppy Green on target for 18, with goals scattered throughout the side.

Division One against Division Three not likely to be a walk over although Cambridge Rangers WFC did get the better of Ely in the League Cup early in the season winning 5-2. Still a chance to win silverware both sides will fancy their chances this evening.

Road to the Final

Cambridge Rangers WFC drawn away to Willingham Wolves Women in the 1st round of the Junior Invitation Cup, newly promoted to Division Two, the sides contested an 8 goal thriller with Kirsty Wicks netting a hat-trick for Willingham, the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Daniela Lewis with the early goal for Cambridge, would add her 2nd early in the first half with manager, Judith Dartnell also bagging a goal. Ali Smethurst with a goal plus and OG securing a 5-3 win. Ely in comparison with a home walkover in the first round against Burwell Ladies.

Into the last 8, Cambridge drawn at home against fellow Division One side and new League Cup winners, Newmarket Town Women Development. A tough draw Cambridge coming out on top to win the game 2-0 to advance to the last 4. Ely at home to in the quarter finals drawn against fellow Division Two side Manea Sirens LFC A team, goals from Kelly Docwra and Danni Youngs sealing a 2-0 win to put them into the semi-finals.

Cambridge away to Division Two side Histon Ladies Development in their semi-final, Katie Grigg getting a goal for Cambridge in the first half the, game won 2-1 with Daniela Lewis firing in a goal inside the final 10 minutes. Ely at home with a tough opponent in their semi-final Soham Town Rangers Women pushing the top two in Division Two in the end a single goal settling the game, Docwra the player on target to see Ely into their first final.

Another glorious day, hotter than the previous evenings final the mini heatwave set to last for another 24 hours, great weather for both finals especially when you recall last season’s planned cup finals day was a wash out due to the rain. Histon FC’s, bridge Road Stadium the venue for this evenings final, another club with a good backing for their 2 senior women’s sides. The grass pitch a good size getting plenty of wear and tear, overlooked by a main raised stand over the changing rooms the bar situated at the back. A smaller seated stand running the length of the opposite side with covered viewing behind both goals. The kitchen hatch open too serving hot food and drink.

Cambridge Rangers WFC starting XI – Sam Chapman, Erika Rasijeff, Laura Baldwin, Ellie Tod (C), Gina Ghensi, Bethan Jones, Laura Baldwin, Daniella Lewis, Leanne Yip Heung Win, Ali Smethurst & Laura Bird. Subs – Nicola Brewin, Yee Hoi Tefer-Ng, Claire Kyndt, Katie Grigg & Hannah Mardell.

Cambridge Rangers WFC

Ely City Women starting XI – Tiff Toynton, Kerry Dyer, Natasha Lane, Ellie Cooper, Christine Cullen, Amy Lloyd, Louisa Harwood, Kelly Docwra (C), Beth Horsfield, Danni Youngs & Poppy Green. Subs – Bella Pillow, Kaci Gibson, Vicki Bailey, Charlotte Upson & Emma Cooper.

Ely City Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the final goes straight to penalties.

Captains, Kelly Docwra and Ellie Tod with this evenings match officials

Carlton Joseph refereeing this evenings final having been 4th official for last evenings Invitation Cup Final, Robin Robichaux having refereed that final the 4th official this evening with Duncan Turned and Rob Smith running the lines. It’s Cambridge to take the kick-off first have wearing yellow shirts with dark blue sleeves dark blue shorts and yellow socks, with Ely lined up opposite in their all red kit. The ball rolled into Bethan Jones in midfield played out to Laura Baldwin on the left of defence, Ely rushing on to try and close the ball down, battling for possession in the middle captain Kelly Docwra lifts a diagonal ball on into the top of the area for Beth Horsfield making the run on the right, Baldwin closing her down to hook the ball away for a corner kick on the right.

Ely curling the corner in towards the near post, Cambridge assistant manager, Gina Ghensi defending getting her head onto the ball to clear the threat.

Assistant manager, Gina Ghensi heading Ely’s corner clear

Ely looking to get busy in the early stages come for the ball look to apply a little pressure, Cambridge a little unsettled, needing to keep an eye on the attempted through balls with Poppy Green looking to pull off the defence. Docwra getting hold of the ball centrally lifting another diagonal ball out to Horsfield on the right, Daniella Lewis tracking back to put in the tackle for Cambridge.

Christine Cullen winning the header for Ely

Cambridge getting the ball down the left Lewis exchanging passes with Ali Smethurst in attack a throw won in the corner leading to a corner kick, players up into the area the ball swung in across the face of goal high, goalkeeper Tiff Toynton fouled as the ball flies over her dropping at the far post, the free-kick awarded.

Lewis looking to get on with the ball on the left for Ely, Kerry Dyer moving in to challenge her see the ball out for a throw. A cross from the angle launched high into the Ely box. Toynton getting her gloves up to claim the ball, launching it up field, helped on through the middle, Green looking to get after it, Laura Bird intercepting for Cambridge.

Ely goalkeeper, Tiff Toynton

Is a big pitch but both sides are tending to get into a tight cluster more to Cambridge’s attacking right than anywhere else, space to be exploited for sure as the ball is hotly contested, Erika Rasijeff sending it on for Jones right side, Louisa Harwood getting a foot in to take it out for a throw. Cambridge press getting a cross into the box, Ellie Cooper heading it clear at the back for Ely.

Cambridge Rangers, Erika Rasijeff

Ely look to launch a counter attack Harwood with the layout sending the ball on for Horsfield on the right racing on, Baldwin coming back to close her down for Cambridge preventing the cross. Docwra over an Ely free-kick just inside the Cambridge half to the right sends it in long high to the far post, goalkeeper Sam Chapman catching the ball high for Cambridge.

Cambridge starting to find a rhythm getting the ball moving through the middle fed on for Ellen Ferguson, sends it out to the left with Lewis storming forwards, Dyer moving in to close her down on the by-line conceding a corner kick. The corner swept in over the keeper at the near post half cleared beyond comes straight to Smethurst inside the area to the right of goal fires her strike over the crossbar.

Cambridge Rangers, Ali Smethurst

Play condensed the ball popping back and forth between the sides as both attempt to find a telling through ball. Ferguson with the ball at her feet for Cambridge carrying it infield from the left shooting from 20 yards out her low strike rolling through to the keeper. Cambridge pressing in the final third Smethurst on through the middle with Ferguson to her right outside the D, held up by Ely’s Christine Cullen, Ferguson has Smethurst moving around her on the overlap to the right putting the ball into her feet as she moves further right strikes the ball on low to the near post, Toynton getting down sharply to make the save turn the ball behind for a corner kick.

Another teasing delivery from a corner kick on the right flashed in across the face of goal, Smethurst central not quite able to get a touch as it flies through everyone. Ely riding out a spell of pressure at the back looking to counter, Amy Lloyd on for Docwra through the middle spots Horsfield in space on the right lifting the ball into her path, it’s Cambridge captain, Ellie Tod coming across the close her down the ball out for a throw as her side regroups.

Lively as Cambridge hit Ely on the counter the ball lifted on through the middle into Lewis, pace as she gets on with the ball lining up a strike on the run from 20 yards out, Toynton down to make the save turning the ball to the left for a corner kick. Swung into the six yard box, it’s Ely’s player manager, Natasha Lane who gets her head on the ball to defend sending it over the bar for another corner. Another dangerous ball in from the left goes long bouncing up beyond the far post, Smethurst looking to get her foot up over the ball to strike it back towards goal puts it straight into the keepers gloves.

Ferguson, Smethurst and Lewis all busy in the final 3rd for Cambridge looking to find a way through, Cooper defending for Ely. Baldwin defending at the back for Cambridge as Green and Horsfield look to get on down the right for Ely, brings the ball out from the back put on up the left for Lewis, spins off Dyer to run in behind the full back, Cooper comes sliding in to take the ball away from her.

Daniella Lewis

Cambridge pushing Ely back the defence up on halfway, risk the counter as Docwra looks to send Green in behind, a vital interception by Tod, Jones right for Cambridge playing in inside for Leanne Yip Heung Win on for Jones sends it on into the box for Smethurst to clip in towards goal, lacking the pace to trouble Toynton in goal. Cambridge getting bodies up around the Ely box.

Ely attacker, Poppy Green

Cooper cutting the ball out in defence for Ely as Ferguson looks to play Smethurst in through the middle, cleared out to the left for Danni Youngs to get on the move taking the ball on into the corner sending a cross in low to the near post, Chapman having to put up with the Ely drum behind her goal getting down to gather the ball into her gloves.

Cambridge Rangers goalkeeper, Sam Chapman

Ely looknig to get players up the pitch Green over to the right as Horsfield and Docwra battle to get it forwards, the former sending the latter down the line, Docwra cutting a cross into the six yard box, Chapman taking it untroubled no one getting into the area. Up the other end Toynton needs to come racing out of her box and Yip Heung Win sets Smethurst clear in the right channel, the keeper getting to the ball first.

Laura Baldwin getting to the ball before Ely’s Beth Horsfield

Horsfield getting back to help Dyer in defence for Ely doubling up on Lewis as she looks to get on down the flank with the ball. Cambridge pushing players on, the ball rolled inside to Ferguson central her strike from outside the box scuffed running safely through to the keeper. An intriguing opening 25 minutes as referee Carlton Joseph signals a drinks break, with the temperature still high as the sun starts to set.

The ball back out on Cambridge’s right, Ely get the ball clear Lloyd on for Youngs wide left bringing the ball on squared in across the top of the area, Green looking to move across the D, strike the ball, charged down by Ghensi, spinning away to the right, Horsfield looking to keep it alive taking it into the corner but can’t keep her cross in play.

Bird coming on with the ball right channel for Cambridge has Yip Heung Win moving out wide down the wing into the corner giving her the ball, she cuts it back inside to Bird who angles the ball into the keeper covering her near post. Toynton the busier of the two keepers called into action as Cambridge clips a diagonal ball in from the right to Lewis charging in towards the top of the area right of the D, Ely’s goalkeeper, rushing out to the top of her box sliding in to make the blocking save with her legs as Lewis pulls the trigger.

Cambridge making the first changes of the game, a double switch with Ferguson and Rasijeff coming off, Katie Grigg and Claire Kyndt coming on. Harwood winning the ball for Ely in the middle linking up with Lloyd, fed on into the left channel for Green in attack, Tod tackling for Cambridge. Little time allowed on the ball. Lewis marauding down the left for Cambridge her cross swept into the area headed away by Cooper.

Ely’s Beth Horsfield and Kerry Dyer

Ely getting the ball on through the middle as Green looks to see it down into her feet shift it on for Docwra to take on past her going left, Grigg in to close the ball down play it out for a throw. Cambridge getting players out to defend the flanks as Ely win throws high up the pitch, Grigg in twice in quick succession to block an attempted cross into the box. Harwood getting into the air to turn a clearance on with her head down into Green charging on towards the top of the Cambridge area, Lewis back to defended getting the blocking tackle in the ball launched out to the right Kyndt looking to get after it angling a shot in towards the near post, Toynton saving with her legs turning the ball behind for a corner kick.

Louisa Harwood moving in to tackle Bethan Jones

Ghensi winning the ball back in defence for Ely coming left lifting it forwards for Lewis up the wing to attack, Dyer getting the lunging tackle in to see the ball out for a throw down in the corner. Cambridge getting a low cross into the six yard box, Cooper intercepting it at the near post. The game remains a tight affair with players from both sides condensing to make getting the ball on for either a tricky task. Ely come away left as the game moves into first half stoppage time the diagonal ball coming to Horsfield on the right, players pushing to get into the box as she lifts a cross into the six yard box, lane attacking it in front of the keeper, Chapman getting hold of the ball.

Ely looking to finish the half on the front foot Lloyd on for Green racing on with Horsfield in attack, Chapman out to the top of her area to clear the ball comes right Docwra taking it on crossing into the middle, Ghensi heading it away, falls to Harwood outside the area top of the D, hooks it back into the box on the volley looping up dropping on target, Chapman has to keep her eye on it, and takes it cleanly into her midriff.

Half-time Cambridge Rangers WFC 0-0 Ely City Women

The first half ends goalless. Cambridge are a slightly nervous start coming into the game creating chances getting players up and around the 18 yard box forcing Ely goalkeeper into a number of saves. The game condensed Ely looking to release their attackers probing for openings has been tense an intriguing contest you feel it’s not likely to be a high scoring game but both have a full squad and have options on the bench, no telling which way it might go in the 2nd 45.

The sun nearly gone the floodlights starting to take effect, 177 in attendance both sides with good support the Ely fans encouraging their side. Neither side making a change as Ely get the 2nd half underway. Played forwards through the middle with green looking to get on, Ghensi snapping in to win the ball back for Cambridge. Docwra getting it back quickly for Ely clipping it out to the left for Green moving down the line, Grigg in to close her down the ball out for a throw.

The game more open at the start of the 2nd half as both sides look to use the pitch better, Cambridge shifting the ball on through the middle with pace lifted up to Kyndt moving in behind left of the area, Toynton starts to come, realises she can’t hesitates Kyndt using the indecision to make up her mind lifting the ball over the stranded keeper from 25 yards out, Toynton turns to see the ball bounce wide of the far post.

Claire Kyndt

Grigg looking to get on up the right playing inside to Smethurst, lays the return pass on for Grigg getting into the box, Cullen getting on her shoulder pressuring her as she goes to shoot, Grigg putting her stabbed effort wide of the near post. Cambridge winning the ball at the back on for Smethurst has Lewis out wide sends the ball on into her run her low cross fired in at the near post blocked by Toynton.

Chances coming at both ends as Lane wins the ball well for Ely on the left put on for Green to take on into the corner her cross flashed in central Youngs looking to slide in to meet it as the keeper comes to close her down the ball turned goal wards rising past the keeper to smash down into the ground off the crossbar!

Danni Youngs sliding effort lifted up onto the crossbar

Ely eager to get the ball up the pitch Lloyd with Docwra central working it out to Youngs on the left, Docwra running on to try and get into the box to support Green in attack, Youngs dropping her cross into the far post, Tod winning it well for Cambridge with both attackers closing her down.

Cambridge Rangers captain, Ellie Tod

Ghensi over to the left of defence to challenge Horsfield as Dyer sends the ball on down Ely’s right wing. Yip Heung Win bringing the ball on through the middle for Cambridge into the left channel, Cooper stepping out of Ely’s back line moving in to close her down before she can slide the ball on for Kyndt. The game certainly more open now, Cambridge readying another double switch with Lewis and Yip Heung Win coming off to be replaced by Ferguson and Yee Hoi Tefer-Hg

Closing in on an hours play Ely find Horsfield out wide on the right her early cross into the box turned away to the top of the area by Jones, Lane latching onto it for Ely top of the D, her shot charged down. Cooper picking up an injury as she lands awkwardly challenging for the ball outside her box. Cambridge using the pause to make a change Tod coming off to be replaced by Hannah Mardell. A blow for Ely as Cooper needs to come off, send Emma Cooper on to replace her in defence.

Ely player manager, Natasha Lane

Smethurst flagged offside as she looks to spin off the Ely defence as Griggs clears the ball long up to her in attack. Smethurst back inside her box to help defend as Ely pile players forwards for a free-kick won on halfway. Hoi Tefer-Ng working the ball on down the left channel for Cambridge with Kyndt the cross angled into the box, cleared by Cooper. Mardell coming across to the right with the ball at her feet playing it into Grigg, Cullen into defend for Ely picking up a knock in the process.

Cambridge introducing players to the game looking to up the tempo move players on. Docwra getting hold of the ball for Ely looking to turn play around attempts to slide Youngs in behind, Ghensi intercepting well for Cambridge top of her area. Both sides fancy their chances Cambridge coming right the cross lifted into the box, headed behind for a corner kick by Cooper.

Closing in on 20 minutes of regular play, Cambridge bring Lewis back on replaces Kyndt in attack. Ely coming right Cambridge under pressure in defence a high back pass looped into the box posing Chapman problems with Green closing her down heads the ball clear at her near post dropping to Docwra top of the D, shifts the ball right to get into the box looking for an opening Bird throwing herself forwards to slide in front of her make the block for Cambridge as Docwra pulls the trigger.

Ely captain, Kelly Docwra

Time for another drinks bring a chance for both management teams to get some instructions into their players try to find the key to unlocking a goal, which this late on may well win the game.

Cambridge moving the ball left a speculative ball angled in from deep, towards the near post skipping up before the keeper, Toynton unable to keep hold of it as it pops out of her gloves for a corner kick. The delivery curled into the near post from the left, defended by Docwra. Ely bringing off Youngs, with Bella Pillow coming on. Lewis getting the ball out to Ferguson moving left her cross squared into the top of the Ely area defended by Cooper.

Lewis chests down a high ball lifted into her 25 yards out then turns to run at the Ely box striking the ball on the half volley falls wide of the near post. Ely move forwards on the counter bringing the ball through the middle, Lloyd helping it on for Docwra breaking in behind outside the box her half volleyed strike driven wide of Chapman’s left post.

Docwra rushing back to close the ball down to stop a potential Cambridge counter the ball loose in the middle, Cullen hurt in a challenge as she gives away a free-kick with less than 10 minutes left.

GOAL! Just as I thought the final was likely to go all the way penalties with neither side finding the break through the dead lock is broken, the free-kick inside the Cambridge half launched forwards players surging forwards to get into the Ely box, Docwra initially blocking it, comes out to Lewis top of the D, she latches onto the ball and putting her left foot through it sends a superb hit up and over the keeper, to drop under the crossbar into the back of the net and runs away in celebration 1-0!

Daniella Lewis celebrates as she fires Cambridge Rangers into the lead

A blow for Ely conceding in the final 10 minutes gets worse as Cullen hurt in the earlier challenge has to come off, with Vicki Bailey coming on. Cooper defending at the back for Ely as Ferguson looks to run onto a through ball from Smethurst. Lane coming off for Ely as they send on Charlotte Upson. Cambridge getting their noses in front need to calm themselves down need some ball management now, Ely will have to take risks now to get back into the game.

Cambridge Rangers, Hoi Yee Tefer-Ng

Hoi Tefer-Ng getting the ball on for Lewis left played into Ferguson her cross flashed into the box in high on the keeper, Toynton reacting getting her gloves up knocking it down inside the six yard box, Pillow getting it clear. Harwood coming off for Ely with Kaci Gibson on with the game moving into stoppage time.

Lewis coming off for Cambridge as Kyndt is sent back onto the pitch. Docwra sending the ball on for Upson getting on down the left for Ely, her early cross into the top of the area won by Ghensi. Upson turning provider for Docwra moments later as she hits it on the spin left of the D outside the box her effort put straight into the keeper. Time almost up one last push form Ely to get the ball into the area Green almost escaping away in the left channel, but Ghensi out well stretching to block the ball. That’s it time up the final whistle blows and Cambridge Rangers WFC celebrate as they win the Junior Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge Rangers WFC 1-0 Ely City Women

Cambridge Rangers celebrate their cup win

A much closer game than some might have thought, both sides keeping it tight first half with Cambridge creating the best chances. Ely coming on better 2nd half the game opened up the pitch used better, Youngs seeing their best chance cannon against the bar. Further chances coming and going then just as you thought it might go to penalties, Daniela Lewis latched onto the ball outside the box to send her strike in under the bar to put Cambridge into the lead with less than 10 minutes to play, the Division One side using their experience to see out the game and clinch the trophy. A fine effort from Ely, pushed Cambridge all the way well supported by their fans who showed their appreciation at the end of the game. Still have a league title to play for very much a club on the rise.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. More or less the same as yesterdays Invitation Cup Final, Several fantastic performances but one player standing out. A well contested cup final, Ely playing their part, Ellie Cooper superb in defence winning the ball on a number of occasions a blow when she had to come off, Christine Cullen too getting her tackles in. Kelly Docwra winning the ball in the middle looking to get forwards link up with the attack created a number of opportunities. For Cambridge Rangers, Gina Ghensi won her fair share of the ball in defence. Along with captain Ellie Tod. Ellen Ferguson used the ball well making some good attacking runs, Ali Smethurst with good movement and positioning up top. She was a contender without the goal is that basically clinched it the award going to Daniella Lewis was bust throughout getting forwards with purpose on the ball with several powerful runs looking to keep her side on the front foot.

Congratulations to Cambridge Rangers WFC on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire FA Women’s Junior Invitation Cup.

Cambridge Rangers WFC 2024/25 Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup winners

Still plenty of finals to go but that’s a wrap for the women’s finals in Cambridgeshire, all three an enjoyable watch. My thanks to everyone for helping me with the team details always appreciated. Good to catch up with both sides, haven’t had a chance to see Ely this season, until now good luck in your title hunt. Has been a good while since I last saw Cambridge Rangers good to see their players lift a trophy. Onto Carrow Road on Sunday for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v Histon Ladies

Wednesday 30th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

A cup final double bill from Cambridgeshire this week, with back to back games this Wednesday and Thursday evening. First up the Cambs FA Women’s Invitation Cup Final, being held at Cambridge City FC’s newly built stadium in Sawston, between Cambridge United WFC and Histon Ladies. With the Women’s Junior Invitation Cup being held the following evening at Histon FC’s Bridge Road Stadium featuring Cambridge Rangers WFC and Ely City Women.

The Women’s Invitation Cup

This evening featuring the women’s senior county cup competition final. Cambridge United WFC and Cambridge City Women the leading sides in Cambridgeshire for nearly the past decade dominating the competition, neither 1st team featuring in last season’s competition won by Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Both back in the competition this season however Cambridge United WFC having to field a side made up of their U18’s and 1st team players.

Turned in a good performance at The Abbey Stadium on Sunday in their final game of the FAWNL season, drawing 1-1 with Chatham Town Women. Finishing 9th has been another frustrating season missing key players through injury not picking up as many points as they would have wanted, nevertheless into another cup final and a chance to end things on a high. Their U18s making it to the final of the Invitation Cup last season this time around it’s a mixed squad mostly U18s again with up to 5 regular 1st team players, players who have played less than 50% 1st team fixtures or been out injured for a sustained period making their return also available. Thus getting the balance right for a mixed squad is a tricky task for manager Darren Marjoram, a good opportunity for the youngsters to impress however.

Histon Ladies having rebuilt somewhat and returned to the ERWFL are enjoying a strong campaign in Division One North currently in 4th spot with three league games left to play, 2 points off 2nd spot with AFC Dunstable the current occupants having played out their fixtures a fantastic opportunity to clinch runners-up spot themselves. Have only lost two league games all season, and both of those against new league champions, Harpenden Town Women. Sophie Hopkin presented with a shirt celebrating 100 appearances for Histon before the game joint top scorer so far this season along with Evie Nicholls on 16. Poppy Smith has 12 goals to her name with Jessica McCrae netting 8 and midfielder, Rachel Pearce on 6.

Sophie Hopkin congratulated by her teammates having made 100 appearances for Histon

Road to the Final

Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the Women’s Invitation Cup, were drawn away in the 2nd Round where both racked up double figure wins to progress to the last 8. Cambridge away to Division Two side, Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies, Sarah Wiltshire firing Cambridge into a 2 goal lead with Millie Docking, Rosy Wodhams and Serina Cobb all finding the back of the net to see Cambridge lead 5-0 at the break, Lauren Rouse from the penalty spot extending the lead in the 2nd half before Wiltshire went on to add two more to the tally, 4 for herself with a double from Emelia Reinhardt making it 10-0. Histon away to another Division Two side, March Town United Ladies the goals flying in there too with Poppy Smith on the scoresheet for 5, Evie Nicholls and Sophie Hopkin firing home 4 apiece with Rachel Pearce also scoring in a crushing 14-0 result.

Onto the quarter finals, Cambridge drawn at home to the side that beat the u18s in the final last season Whittlesey Athletic Ladies, now promoted to the ERWFL, Cambridge securing a 1 goal lead at the break, new signing Becca Stephenson grabbing her 1st goal for Cambridge in the 2nd period to help secure a 2-0 win see Cambridge progress to the semi-finals. Histon also at home in the quarter finals taking on newly crowned Cambridgeshire Division One Champions, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Evie Nicholls on target for a brace with a goal each for Rachel Pearce, Hannah Seymour-Shove and Katie Levitt sealing a 5-0 to see the club advance to the last 4.

An intriguing line up in the semi-finals Histon and Newmarket both riding high in ERWFL Division One North along side Cambridge City Women and Cambridge United WFC. United away to Newmarket in their semi-final. Becca Stephenson picking up where she left off in the quarter final scoring twice in the 1st half to see Cambridge 2-0 up at the break, Emelia Reinhardt coming on in the 2nd half bursting forwards to put Cambridge into a 3-0 lead and see the club into the final. Histon hosting Cambridge City Women now playing in the ERWFL Premier Division. Jessica McCrae bagging herself a brace along with goals for Rachel Pearce and Poppy Smith seeing Histon clinch a 4-1 victory to book the place in the final.

The new main stand at the Cambridge City FC Community Stadium

The final this season being played at Cambridge City FC’s brand new Community Stadium in Sawston, long planned and finally becoming a reality. An impressive main stand running alongside a large grass pitch with smaller terraced stands on the other 3 sides of the ground. Ample carparking around the stadium. A 3G pitch beside the main pitch. Work still to be completed on the interior but fantastic to see it becoming a reality after so much waiting. Hosting this evenings final April ending with a mini heat wave unusually warm up to 26 degrees today the heat retained into the evening. A food truck and stall offering some delicious looking cakes leading into the ground. The bar beyond open too. A good sized grass pitch offering plenty of width.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner, Olivia Welham, Gisela Otten (C), Lauren Rouse, Sammy Edgar, Serena Cobb, Rosy Wodhams, Charlotte Gillies, Becca Stephenson & Emelia Reinhardt. Subs – Katie Walter, Sydney Daniels, Millie Docking, Natasha Coe & Erika Lempek.

Cambridge United WFC

Histon Ladies starting XI – Tara Fitzjohn, Freya Goddard, Mollie Childerley, Laura Leyland (C), Molly Banks, Jess McCrae, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Rachel Pearce, Sophie Hopkin, Poppy Smith & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Belle Howard, Eloise Page, Evie McCulloch, Claire Krueger & Katie Levitt.

Histon Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the score be level after 90 minutes the final goes straight to penalties.

Captain’s Laura Leyland and Gisela Otten with this evenings match officials referee, Austin Robichaux and assistants Dominic Cameron and Theresa Robichaux. Carlton Joseph the 4th official.

Histon taking Cambridge back-up keeper, Sophie Shults on loan for the past 7 matches to help see out the season, are without her this evening as she is in goal for the opposition, with long serving player, Tara Fitzjohn donning the gloves for this evenings final. Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten is playing her last game for Cambridge retiring at the end of the season, having played over 100 games for the club a good portion of those wearing the captains armband. The sun setting behind the main stand may cause a few issues to the players, Histon having it at their backs as Cambridge get the first half underway wearing light blue floral patterned shirts with light blue shorts and socks. Histon wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back into Lauren Rouse in defence sent long up to the right for Charlotte Gillies to chase, Mollie Childerley getting across her path to shield the ball out for a goal kick.

Cambridge pushing up to press the ball inside the Histon half early on, Serena Cobb sending the ball into Gillies on the right fired into the top of the area with Emelia Reinhardt looking to take it inside right of goal, Jess McCrae in to defend seeing it out of play for Histon. Rosy Wodhams snapping in to win the ball for Cambridge fed out to Becca Stephenson wide right her attempted cross cut out by Rachel Pearce. Stephenson quick to get the ball back pushing down the line, Freya Goddard putting in the tackle to see the ball out for a throw in the corner.

Cambridge getting players up around the area the throw coming into Wodhams inside the box top left corner seeing in down into her feet, turns to strike the ball, Histon captain, Laura Leyland charging the ball down. Cambridge appealing for a hand ball but get no where. Cambridge winning the ball eager to get forwards use the width Gillies picked out on the right wins a corner kick. Curled into the six yard box, claimed by Fitzjohn.

Histon look to get the ball up field into Poppy Smith on the left flank, taking the ball on, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner diving in with the challenge, the full back then fouled as she attempts to get the ball moving the other way. Wodhams onto the ball making a run across the top of the D, moving left 25 yards out feds it into Stephenson wide left she in turn lays it back to Olivia Welham advancing from left back takes on the shot from range, her shot flying straight into the keepers gloves.

Evie Nicholls seeing the ball into her from Sophie Hopkin breaks away on the right channel for Histon looking to get into the area, racing forwards Shults going to ground getting hold of the ball as the ball is over hit.

Wodhams driving on with the ball at her feet for Cambridge across the top of the area cut back to the right, Childerley cutting the pass out for Histon, Cambridge though are quick to regain possession keep the pressure on, Sammy Edgar up with Serena Cobb central played wide to Stephenson left her cross swept into the area, cleared by McCrae. Wodhams with another strong run from midfield sees another shot charged down the ball out to the left, Goddard in to challenge Stephenson as she looks to get in behind to cross.

GOAL! The pressure building from Cambridge at the start of the game the Histon defence pushed back busy building from midfield the ball in rolled forwards into Wodhams moving into the left channel, Stephenson makes a run across her going central Wodhams laying the ball into her path, Stephenson 25 yards out wraps her right foot around the ball catching it sweetly to send a superb strike up and over the keeper to nestle into the back of the net to put Cambridge into the lead. 1-0.

Becca Stephenson firing Cambridge into the lead

Cambridge on top early on taking the lead on 9 minutes competing well for the 2nd ball, Edgar central spotting Stephenson’s left channel run as she attempts to get in behind, Goddard stretching out a leg intercepting the ball for Histon. Smith left and Nicholls right needing to be patient up top be ready to receive the ball, Leyland’s clearance from the ball coming to Nicholls on the right, looks to take it in behind, Cambridge captain, Otten across to close her down put in the tackle.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten tackling Histon’s Evie Nicholls

Cobb on for Wodhams bursting forwards left channel played on for Reinhardt ahead of her outside the box sees her shot charged down the rebound coming to Wodhams central hits it first time 20 yards out drags the ball wide of the target. Is a big pitch Cambridge with time on the ball looking to exploit it as Lauren Rouse on halfway lifting it forwards towards the top of the area, Leyland winning the header for Histon.

Reinhardt getting hold of the ball looking to charge across the D get into the box, Histon’s Hannah Seymour-Shove looking to go with her pulls up suddenly appearing to jar her knee as her foot catches in the turf. Play continues as Reinhardt finds Stephenson wide left her cross defended by Leyland as play is stopped for Seymour-Shove to receive treatment. Unfortunately doesn’t look good the stretcher called for needs to come off, Histon forced into a change send on Claire Krueger going into the defence along side Leyland with McCrae pushed forwards.

Freya Goddard moving in to tackle Becca Stephenson

Wodhams latching onto the ball high up the pitch from a goal-kick lays it to the right for Hjaltun-Rayner pushing forwards from full back her early cross into the area dealt with by Leyland. Out of no where Histon spring the counter attack, Cambridge pushed up the ball given to Hopkin in midfield slides it through for Smith in the left channel, races forwards Shults racing out to the top of her area to try and get to the ball, Smith just getting there first taking it around the keeper on into the box left of goal, looks to slot it home, however, Welham racing round on the cover gets in the way to block and turn it behind for a corner kick.

Olivia Welham getting back to clear the ball for Cambridge

The corner lifted in to the near side, Krueger up from the back for Histon getting her head on the ball sending the ball over the crossbar. A warning for Cambridge not to get complacent at the back.

Edgar into Wodhams for Cambridge attacking through the middle moves left laying the ball back inside for Welham as the full back bombs forwards, looking to get into the box, Goddard closing her down winning the ball back for Histon. McCrae defending for Histon as Stephenson looks to spin in behind on the left the ball hooked upfield by Leyland. Histon absorbing alot of pressure battling for the ball pushed back in defence but determined.

Wodhams too determined with the ball at her feet for Cambridge on the drive going all the way into the box right of goal closing in on the six yards box, closed down squeezes in on for Gillies to her right inside the six yard box, the angle acute takes on the shot flashing the ball wide across the face of goal past the far post.

Rosy Wodhams driving forwards for Cambridge

Leyland making the decision to step out of the back line to deal with Wodhams next marauding run getting the tackle in before the midfield can set Reinhardt loose on goal. The clearance straight back with Cambridge, Cobb lifting the diagonal ball into the area, Krueger heading clear for Histon.

Rachel Pearce looking to get hold of the ball for Histon

Play mostly in the Histon half the defence pressed back continue to work hard to stop Cambridge finding a way through, Hopkin finding Pearce on the right tries to get it on for Nicholls in attack, Otten moving in to close the attacker down. Edgar snapping in to regain possession for Cambridge in the middle tries to thread the ball in behind for Reinhardt pulling off the defence, Fitzjohn moving forward to grab hold of the ball.

Emelia Reinhardt

Pearce is fouled deep on the right picking up a knock in the process the free-kick awarded. Histon with an opportunity to get players forwards. Hopkin over the ball launches it in towards the crowd at the top of the area left of the D, the ball knocked down across the D to the right, Pearce free, moving in to strike the ball first time with her left foot, pulls her strike wide of the right post, had more time than she realised but a great chance for Histon nonetheless.

Cambridge lively Cobb breaking on with the ball rolled on for Gillie right, Childerley lunging in to take the ball away from her for a throw. Histon forced into another change, Pearce having picked up a knock coming off, with Evie McCulloch. Reinhardt with little room to work with as Histon defend their area, driving on with the ball looks to fight her way through on goal, Molly Banks getting a foot in to slow her down, allowing Childerley to bring the ball away from danger.

Stephenson moving across the top of the area up top for Cambridge sees the ball rolled into her right channel by Hjaltun-Rayner shoots from distance the ball straight at Fitzjohn. Cambridge getting players forwards at will, Wodhams and Stephenson exchanging passes in front of the D, laid back to Cobb to clip a diagonal ball into Welham advancing on the left wing the full back whipping a cross into the area just behind Reinhardt making a near post run, Krueger cutting it out beyond to clear.

Shults is almost on the halfway line herself such is the pressure Cambridge are being allowed to exert, Smith and Nicholls patient ready to attack should the opportunity fall to them still have alot to do. Otten into Reinhardt going left closing in on the corner with Goddard the air clashing as the ball is seen out of play by the defender, the referee talking to both, the yellow card coming out too.

Hopkin getting the ball back for Histon central looks to send Nicholls away up top, Cambridge hold their high line however catching her offside. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half, for all their dominance Cambridge still leading by just a single goal, Histon backs against the wall determined to keep it that way. Pushed up through the middle, Stephenson inside with Wodhams cross runs the ball on into Cobb inside the D shifts it right for Stephenson to strike, fires wide of the right post. A nick on the way through however a corner signalled.

Put in to the near post Krueger winning it for Histon cleared out of the box and launched up field for Nicholls to chase, Shults out of her box needs to win the clearance with the attacker bearing down on her and gets her foot up over the ball to see it away safely. Smith getting her tackle in on Reinhardt as she looks to turn in the middle the ball poked out to Stephenson wide left pushes on with the ball her cross into the box intercepted by Krueger.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Histon Ladies

Cambridge go into the changing rooms at the break leading the final by a single goal, Stephenson’s superb strike on 9 minutes over the keeper from 25 yards out putting them in front. Have applied plenty of pressure seeing more of the ball getting players on, Histon in contrast defending deep inside their box getting bodies back allowing no space through on goal, that in turn limiting their attacking opportunities up the other end but have created two good chances themselves will be pleased to have gotten to this stage with the score as it is. Have lost two key midfielders to injury in the process however. Cambridge winning the 2nd balls keeping play in their opponents half. Could be a question of can Histon keep up their determination in defence 2nd half or will the continued pressure take it’s toll, one goal in it the longer they can keep it that way the better but can they find a goal up the other end?

No changes at the break it’s as you were at the end of the 1st half the floodlights taking full effect now, remains mild, the burgers, chips and cakes going down well with the gathered supporters, 285 in attendance. Histon to get the 2nd half underway, Cambridge rushing on to immediately close down the ball, get it out to Gillies on the right takes on the early cross squaring it into Reinhardt top of the D, her 1st time strike racing wide of the far post.

Rosy Wodhams constantly taking the ball on for Cambridge

McCulloch snapping in to win the ball for Histon central forwards into Nicholls, Rouse tackling for Cambridge. Histon getting the ball out to the right McCulloch playing the ball into the near post six yards out, Nicholls and Smith closing in to try and get a touch the ball knocked wide of the post for a goal kick.

Histon attacker, Evie Nicholls

Lively in the middle, Edgar into get hold of the ball fed on for Gillies down the right wing, Childerley back onto her shoulder challenging to put it out for a throw. Cambridge busy players making runs to try and open up space, Histon stay deep in defence protecting the box, Wodhams winning it off Hopkin in midfield, out to Gillies right, running into the corner with Childerley the defender conceding a corner. Stephenson with a vicious delivery flashed in through the six yard box at an inviting height through everyone however cleared beyond the far post.

Wodhams influential for Cambridge making some strong midfield runs Gillies and Stephenson looking for provide outlets right and left. Pushing up as they are sometimes leaves Cambridge exposed at the back as Histon snatch the ball back left side the ball threaded into Nicholls in the channel breaks in behind Rouse charging towards the area, the rest of the Cambridge defence looking to recover, Otten sliding in top of the area brings Nicholls down, the free-kick awarded a decision to be made, both full backs were round on the cover the referee showing Otten a yellow card. Hopkin over the free-kick left of the D, gets the ball in past the wall through on goal, but Shults moving across her goal can claim it into her mid-riff.

Cambridge for all their dominance need to be careful they don’t get caught out at the back, another goal puts them in a much stronger position probing Histon are not making it easy for them to find a way through. Cambridge making a chance bringing off Gillies on the right send on Natasha Coe who had a spell with Histon before coming to Cambridge, goes over to the left with Stephenson moving across the pitch.

10 minutes played in the 2nd half, Edgar up with Wodhams in midfield, plays it left for Welham advancing on the left plays in on for Coe to take on down the line, Goddard diving in to put it out of play for Histon. Off the throw dropped into Wodhams outside the box on the angle sends a shot in on target, Fitzjohn has the angled covered getting hold of the ball.

Cambridge’s Sammy Edgar

A double change for Histon with Belle Howard and Katie Levitt introduced to the game, Nicholls and Hopkin coming off. Hjaltun-Rayner looking to get the ball on right side for Cambridge, Wodhams coming across to receive the ball, Banks diving in to challenge to get hold of the ball for Histon looks for Levitt on the left, Rouse cutting out the pass for Cambridge. Cambridge making another switch, Erika Lempek coming on to replace Reinhardt in attack.

Histon’s Katie Levitt

Coe played on down Cambridge’s left wing curling a cross into the box, Leyland getting under it to head clear for Histon. The game starting to open up a little as Histon look to commit a little more in attack fresh legs on the pitch. Cobb getting the ball into Lempek’s feet out on the right, Levitt in to win it back for Histon comes away with the ball, Hjaltun-Rayner sliding in with a heavy tackle taking her out, shown the yellow as Levitt is quickly back on her feet.

Histon captain, Laura Leyland

Otten putting the ball on for Cobb left channel shifted to Coe left played back inside to Cobb up with Stephenson outside the box left of the D, the ball played across to the right for Wodhams in space, shots, a nick off a defenders leg on it’s way through to the keeper taking the sting off the ball, Fitzjohn grabbing it up for the large part despite the pressure in front of her untroubled in terms of needing to throw herself into a save.

Welham and Coe doubling up on the left as they build an attack for Cambridge, Coe shifting the ball inside looking to get into the box Leyland coming to close her down. Rouse called into action at the back for Cambridge as Histon attempt to put a long ball into Smith in attack, the defender bringing it down well.

Histon’s Poppy Smith

Cambridge getting a corner on the right Stephenson curling the ball into the six yard box knocked in towards goal at the far post Histon have players on the line to block cleared out to the top of the area, Cobb putting it back out to Stephenson top right corner of the box, her low cross smashed back in, blocked by Howard. The flag going up against Stephenson as she makes a run in behind right to left across the D, as Lempek seeing the ball into her feet right channel attempts to play her in. Stephenson from all of 30 yards out central firing a strike wide of the left post. Cambridge pressing as the game enters the final 15 minutes.

GOAL! Cambridge winning a corner out on the right, players up from the back the six yard box packed as Stephenson drops the delivery right into the mix, down amongst feet an orange boot stabbing it towards goal, fired past the keeper, belongs to Hjaltun-Rayner as she is mobbed by her joyous teammates having doubled Cambridge’s lead. 2-0.

Flo Hjaltun-Raynor with the touch to double Cambridge’s lead from the corner

Histon making a double change with Eloise Page coming on along with Nicholls replacing, Goddard and Childerley. Much needed breathing room for Cambridge the 2nd goal coming at last. Press right Stephenson on for Lempek back inside for Cobb lifted forwards into Wodhams looking to turn top of the area, Leyland closing her down for Histon.

Serina Cobb

Welham forwards for Coe on the left her cross blocked by Page going away for a corner kick. Another vicious delivery put in across the face of goal, no one getting a touch scrambled clear beyond the far post. Hopkin coming back onto the pitch late on replacing Banks. Cambridge getting on down the right Stephenson’s cross turned behind for another corner. Taken short rolled back into Stephenson the corner taker her cross lifted into the area, won and cleared by Hopkin.

Sophie Hopkin

Histon looking to try and get on with the ball fed into Howard on the left looks to release Nicholls in behind through the middle, Welham running around on the cover spotting the threat lunging in to win the ball back. Lempek seeing the ball into her feet putting it on for Wodhams moving right finds Stephenson on the move down the wing her cross into the box blocked by Krueger behind for a corner. Curled into the six yard box headed over the crossbar.

Claire Krueger

Sydney Daniels and Millie Docking coming on for Cambridge with Edgar and Welham coming off with 6 minutes left of regular time. Cobb picking out Stephenson on the right for Cambridge has Hjaltun-Rayner racing past her on the overlap down the line fires her cross in on the angle takes a nick off a Histon boot as it crashes into the side netting a corner given. Another short on rolled into Coe coming to the ball near post back to Stephenson to cross from the top of area, hooked clear by Leyland.

Goddard back on for Histon with McCulloch coming off. Into the last 5 minutes. Daniels defending at the back for Cambridge as Smith looks to take the ball on. The ball played back to Shults her clearance doesn’t get any height goes between Nicholls and Smith as they look to close her down, comes onto Goddard in midfield tries to hit it first time knowing the keeper is off her line but doesn’t catch it clean the ball put wide right of goal.

Lempek with a good touch to see the ball down turns to play it forwards almost sending Docking through on goal, the flag though halting her advance. McCrae lining up a strike from range, Otten putting in the block away for a throw on the right, Histon looking to press crossing into the box, defended near side, Shults bringing it down safely into her gloves. Katie Walter coming on to see out the closing stages of the final for Cambridge replacing Hjaltun-Rayner.

Docking played in down Cambridge’s left, gets on the move driving forwards all the way into the box eventually stopped by Krueger. Into stoppage time, Cambridge winning a throw in the left Coe crossing the ball into the top of the area, Leyland getting her head on the ball, Cobb pushing on win the ball back played back to the left, the cross dropped into the six yard box, hooked clear.

Lempek on for Cobb through the middle send away to Stephenson right her cross low into the area cut out by Leyland. Cambridge keep coming late on Histon tiring winning a corner on the right, Whipped in with pace past Coe at the near post on for Rouse central lifts the ball up over the crossbar. Docking on the dribble with the ball looking to get into the box from the left sends a cross into the area, Goddard clearing for Histon. The final whistle blows and Cambridge are victorious winning this season’s Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 Histon Ladies

A dominant attacking display from Cambridge who were made to work hard for the win taking an early lead it wasn’t until they had entered the final 15 minutes of the game before they found a way through to double their lead. Got forwards well winning the 2nd balls and using the pitch. Histon with a battling defensive display made Cambridge work for the win defending deep leaving little room to exploit inside the area, at 1-0 were never out of the game although they had few chances to find a goal themselves eventually tiring can be proud of their effort. Have 3 big league games left to play 2nd spot in the league very much the goal. Cambridge’s season done now, ending with silverware time to enjoy the rest, be ready for next season, FAWNL South East Division One will be more competitive than ever.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, plenty of fine performances but one clear winner for me. Credit goes to the entire Histon squad for their battling defensive display had to keep it tight as a unit to keep Cambridge at bay, captain Laura Leyland and Claire Krueger in particular putting in a number of blocks and crucial tackles. Molly Banks and Jessica McCrae pushed back on the defence winning the ball. Mollie Childerley and Freya Goddard out on the flanks having alot to do throughout but kept at it. For Cambridge, Serina Cobb and Sammy Edgar get stuck in in midfield to win the ball back keep the pressure on continuously. Charlotte Gillies linking up well with Hjaltun-Rayner on the right, likewise Olivia Welham on the left pushing on to support Becca Stephenson whose movement on the left and coming central caused problems throughout made some fantastic runs opening the scoring with a superb strike. The award goes to midfielder, Rosy Wodhams was a threat throughout the game taking the ball on with numerous marauding runs linking up with the attack and getting into some great positions.

Cambridge United WFC 2024/25 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup winners

Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Gisela Otten’s final game for Cambridge has been fantastic for the club since her arrival a pleasure to have sponsored her for one of those seasons. Sophie Hopkin a legend in her own right for Histon making 100 appearances for the club, congratulations. my thanks to both clubs for their help with the starting line-ups this evening. One final down straight back at it with the Junior Invitation Cup at last the finals are here in abundance but I’ve still get maybe 10 games to go before I can rest…

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Monthly Archives: May 2025

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Friday 16th May

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Sunday 11th May

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Sunday 11th May

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Sunday 4th May

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Thursday 1st May

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Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v Histon Ladies

Wednesday 30th April

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