Monthly Archives: March 2026

Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Brundall Bolts Women

Sunday 29th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Negotiating all roadworks on the A47 this Sunday as I make my way east across Norfolk into Suffolk to catch some action from Norfolk Women’s Division Two with Beccles Town Ladies currently 5th in the table hosting 3rd placed Brundall Bolts Women.

My first taste of action in the Division this season, and long overdue with a competitive tussle at the top end of the table between 5 sides, with Shrublands Ladies losing just one game this season and racking up 7 straight league wins on the verge of clinching the title one more game to play and then only Hickling Ladies with games in hand can overhaul them with maximum points. Could be a tall order however as Hickling are amongst the pack chasing Shrublands with just 2 points separating the sides placed 2nd to 5th. Those sides currently being Martham FC Ladies, Brundall Bolts Women, Hickling and Beccles Town Ladies.

Beccles drawing 2-2 away to Brundall Bolts last weekend welcome them to College Meadow this Sunday with their own title bid knocked off the rails some what by suffering 2 defeats in their last 4 league games, that after a long pause without games having gotten off to a fantastic start to the season with 6 straight league wins. have an established core of experienced senior players with a good stream of young talent joining the squad, a good blend but Norfolk seeing U16’s players stepping up into adult football can be a steep learning curve takes time to bed in. Top scorer, Poppy Manders hasn’t taken much time to bed in however hitting the back of the net 19 times so far from her 14 appearances. Lola Middlemass and Olivia Bailey both with 4 goals apiece.

Brundall Bolts Women are playing in just their 2nd season since being formed in 2024, a strong debut season in an expanded Norfolk women’s football league finishing 2nd behind champions Martham FC Ladies in Division Three to clinch promotion to Division Two. Both promoted sides amongst the title contenders for much of the season. A mixed bag of results early in the season winning as many as they lost in their 1st 8 matches have put together a strong run into the last couple of months to win 4 on the spin before drawing with Beccles last Sunday. Have plenty of goals in their squad too, with top scorer Amy Morris, like Manders for Beccles also on 19 from her 13 played. Caitlyn Moore also into double figures netting 13 from 15 with Ines Briec and Chloe Musson also both pushing double figures on 9 and 8 goals respectfully.

Been a while since I was last at College Meadow home of Beccles Town FC, features a good sized grass pitch that sees plenty of action. The tea hut open serving hot and cold drinks, a cup of tea most welcome on another bitterly cold Sunday with the wind biting blowing across the pitch with the threat of rain later on. A small covered stand with some seating opposite the dugouts offering some cover, but we could do with some warmer Sunday’s coming along soon.

Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Nixon, Kelly Collins (C), Amelia Kennard, Georgia Tiffin, Megan Vincent, Vicky Bloomfield, Vicky Ottey, Emily Coe, Evie Bailey, Millie Reeve & Lola Middlemass. Subs – Erin Rose & Marie Carter.

Beccles Town Ladies

Brundall Bolts Women starting XI – Ava Wilson, Eden Simmonds, Caitlyn Moore, Gemma Burwood, Izzy Lever, Viktorija Miglane, Emma Clark (C), Daisy Hill, Robyn Nash, Amy Morris & Ines Briec. Subs – Elle Kendall, Hannah Davidson, Chloe Pawsey-Cole, Chloe Musson & Sapphire Secker.

Brundall Bolts Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Kelly Collins and Emma Clark with today’s match referee, Nathan Hazell

It’s Beccles to get the game underway kicking off the 1st half wearing white coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Brundall lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with navy across the top of the chest and sleeves, with navy shorts and socks. The ball played back to Megan Vincent in defence the ball clipped forwards to Evie Bailey pushing on up the right knocks it inside through the middle with midfielder Vicky Ottey looking to bomb forwards get into the box, goalkeeper Ava Wilson out to the top of her area to get to it first clearing for Brundall.

The visitors mount their first attack pushing on down the right, captain, Emma Clark turning the ball on down the line for Robyn Nash driving forwards, closed down by Beccles, Georgia Tiffin the ball out of play for the goal kick before a cross can be delivered. A tentative opening as both sides look to get the ball moving, closing each other down the ball charged down in the middle, Beccles playing a high defensive line sees, Ines Briec flagged for offside just over halfway as Brundall look to turn play around.

Midfielder, Vicky Bloomfield over the ball to the right launches it long up into the area, Wilson looks to have it even as players rush in to try and close it down, a Beccles boot knocking it out of the keepers gloves, but runs harmlessly wide past the right post for a goal kick. Ottey snapping in to win the ball in the middle plays it on for Bailey right, checking inside sends it back inside to Ottey who fires it up to Lola Middlemass making a run into the D, the ball defended well by Gemma Burwood at the back for Brundall.

Beccles midfielder, Vicky Bloomfield

Lively, Brundall battle for possession through the middle, Viktorija Miglane on for Clark forwards to Amy Morris, back to goal 25 yards out spins it out to Nash pushing on up the right, her cross whipped into the box, cut out by Vincent as Briec makes the run into the box from the left flank. Pushing up to halfway, the Beccles defence have to be alert to Brundall attempting to counter quickly as Eden Simmonds gets a foot in to deny Bailey as she charges on with the ball up the right, lifted forwards, Tiffin with a crucial interception to stop the ball being fed in behind.

Brundall defender, Eden Simmonds

Brundall over loading the right a times looking to gain ground, Beccles back to defend counter through the middle Bloomfield to Ottey sends it up the line for Bailey to attack on the right, Simmonds going with her lunging in to take the ball behind for the corner kick. Bloomfield to deliver the corner played into the near post knocked on falling down central top of the area, Vincent attacking the shot charged down, then a 2nd blocked by the Brundall defence before being scrambled away to the left.

Beccles goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon breaking out of her area to get to the ball to clear as Brundall look to get Morris away through the middle. The ball rarely still both sides snapping after the other, Briec closing down Amelia Kennard as she looks to get away down the left, tracking inside, Kennard coming back at her to put in the challenge before she can get it through to Morris in attack.

Beccles, Amelia Kennard

Play squeezed up by both sides now as Brundall push players on down the right, Daisy Hill on for Nash inside to Clark, attempts to feed the pass into Morris, Tiffin closing the ball down. Beccles launching a quick counter the ball played on through the middle catching the visitors defensive line high, Middlemass escaping in behind into the left channel knocking the ball forwards, the keeper racing out of her area to try and intercept, Middlemass getting a touch to take it beyond her, into the area forced out to the left, defenders racing back, Middlemass attempts to find the goal the ball instead wide at the near post.

Clark getting forwards to see the ball into her feet right channel off Nash turns it wide into Morris breaking up the wing her cross angling into the keepers gloves at her near post. Fairly even as both sides work hard to close the other down, passes rushed often cut out by the opposing defence. Nash right side prodding the ball into the channel for Morris to turn onto and chase down, Tiffin going with her diving in to get a foot in send it out of play for the throw.

GOAL! 20 minutes on the clock Beccles counter getting the ball on through the middle from Bloomfield sees, Middlemass beat the offside flag to run in behind the Brundall back line, in the clear the keeper coming again to try and close her down, the attacker getting her shot away early 20 yards out firing it low past the advancing keeper and on to roll into the back of the net to open the scoring 1-0.

Lola Middlemass breaking away to pen the scoring for Beccles

Beccles taking the lead, have their tails up as the ball is closed down by Kennard on the right the full back playing it on up the line for Bailey to burst on into space, Wilson racing of her area to get something on it to clear for Brundall.

The game open Brundall’s Miglane up to Morris sends the ball into Briec out on the left, getting the ball into her feet bursts on up the flank, Vincent coming out to try and close her down the pair fighting for possession as Briec forces her way inside 20 yards out, squeezes a dangerous cross into the box, Clark making a run onto the penalty spot can’t quite bring it down under control, as she knocks it goal wards but lacking any power as Beccles get it away to safety.

Vincent conceding a corner kick to Brundall as the visitors over load the right the cross turned behind. A crowd gathered at the near post the ball curled into the mix knocked down by Morris into Briec central, can’t quite dig the ball out of her feet get the shot away before she is closed down. Bailey charging the ball down for Beccles on the right takes it on in behind on the wing pushing on, Simmonds coming back at her throwing a foot forwards to block her cross take the ball out of play as she looks to find Middlemass and Coe breaking into the area.

Brundall’s Gemma Burwood in pursuit of the ball with Beccles Lola Middlemass

The ball charged down all over the pitch, Kennard tussling with Briec on the left wing, captain Kelly Collins being kept busy on the opposite wing as Clark pushes on up with Nash and Morris, the former sending a cross in along the top of the area cleared by Vincent long up to Bailey right side, Ottey providing a run through the middle but the flag goes up against her as she looks to take the ball on. A scrap in the middle Ottey fouling Clark on halfway.

Beccles get another ball in behind into Middlemass bursting clear out too the left, Lever does well to get back on her get her foot on the ball as the attacker looks too turn inside, not clear, Millie Reeve having raced to get on up with Middlemass on the wing looks to knock it back into the attacker who is by then in an offside position the flag going up, loudly vents her frustration swearing at the decision the referee having none of it brandishing the yellow card and sending her to the sin bin for 10 minutes.

Beccles reduced to 10 as Brundall look to capitalise Morris taking the ball on down the right firing a cross inside to Clark top of the area, held up by Tiffin, gets a shot away on the angle the ball wide across the face of goal. A lively contest on Brundall’s left flank between Simmonds and Briec, Kennard and Bailey for Beccles the latter in the heat of the moment narrowly getting her hand out of the way as she looks to stop a clearance forwards. Ottey winning the ball well in the middle for the hosts plays a good pass on for Bailey through the middle, Miglane snapping back at her with a timely foot in to take the ball out of her path.

Beccles Evie Bailey

Kennard and Briec tangling for the ball on the touchline in front of the Beccles supporters Kennard going down in some discomfort, the crowd unhappy letting Briec know what they think accused of a snap, Briec protesting no such malice intended just a strong coming together, nevertheless Kennard is down needing treatment a pause in play the referee having a word with the coaching staff coming across to calm thing’s down. Kennard is back on her feet as play resumes able to play on.

Tiffin with another vital interception on halfway as Clark looks to get the ball on through the middle. Brundall winning a corner out on the right again have plenty in at the near post lofted in Morris helping the ball on, for Burwood to attack with her head beyond her driving the ball narrowly wide of the upright. Game getting a little physical, both sides closing the other down. Simmonds defending as she tracks back with Bailey looking to attack the ball played on up the right prodding it back into the box for her keeper to clear.

Middlemass back on for Beccles bringing them back up to 11, Brundall get forwards sending Nash away on the right from the angle drills a strike into the box, Nixon saving with her legs the ball loose Morris attempting to latch onto it lifting a shot wide at the near post. Vincent lunging in to defend against Briec as the attacker drives on with the all left of goal.

Another dangerous ball over the top by Beccles sees Middlemass again racing into the clear central, Wilson comes racing out of her area looking to get to it first bouncing up Middlemass goes to attack it hoping to knock it past the advancing keeper as the pair collide the ball instead knocked away to the right, a heavy clash however play stopped immediately with concern for both players, primarily the goalkeeper. Some claims the ball had been handled outside the area, the one picture I have inconclusive.

Another long pause in play with Middlemass gingerly getting back to her feet, the goalkeeper needing a little more time but is thankfully back up on her feet and willing to play on the ball back in play Beccles play it back to Brundall, with Middlemass coming forwards to shake hands with the keeper in a good natured play of sportsmanship.

Lola Middlemass and Ava Wilson shaking hands after their coming together.

Wilson undeterred in the closing stages of the first half coming out of her area to clear before Middlemass can pounce as Bailey looks to square the ball into her from the right after Ottey regains possession in the middle.

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies 1-0 Brundall Bolts Women

Beccles heading back to the changing rooms holding a narrow 1-0 lead going into the 2nd half, Lola Middlemass played in behind to score on 20 minutes. Have been few chances otherwise in a lively contest often the ball moved around quickly as both attempt to get forwards an open game as a result, Beccles prepared to push up, play squeezed both keepers needing to stay alert. Thing’s a little heated at times too, Middlemass in binned, Brundall not able to capitalise on the player advantage but with just a single goal in it all to play for in the 2nd period.

No changes for either side, the rain holding off so far the wind still bitingly chilly. Brundall to get the 2nd half underway the ball put into Morris central sends it long to Nash surging on up the right, a little too much weight on the pass, Collins can see it out for the throw. The visitors looking to push on at the start of the 2nd half Clark playing the ball into Morris pulling right takes on the cross early a diagonal ball up into the area gather low by Nixon.

Middlemass breaking in behind into the right channel taking the ball on towards the box, Lever getting back on her shoulder, the attacker getting a shot away 20 yards out, Wilson getting down behind the ball to make the save pushing the ball away to the left.

Ava Wilson with the save for Brundall.

Beccles turning play around Bloomfield into Ottey the ball finding Bailey out on the right her cross from 20 yards out taking a wicked deflection of a defender looking to cut it out turning the ball on central for Coe to race onto and hit a rising shot in on goal, Wilson right behind it to pluck the ball down into her gloves. Brundall quick to get up the other end Briec from the angle on the left drilling a ball into the area, Nixon claiming it.

Brundall attacker, Amy Morris

The game a little tense Brundall unhappy with a few decisions, the ball lifted out to Middlemass moving right, Simmonds in well to close her down for the visitors. On the opposite flank Collins defends keeping close to Nash as the winger looks to spin off her trying to take the ball in behind from Morris.

Nash back to help out in defence as Beccles play a free-kick from halfway up to Reeves on the left. Morris beating the offside trap to get in behind the Beccles defence carrying the ball on into the area shapes to shoot put the ball across the keeper into the left of goal, Nixon with a great save diving to her right to get a glove on the ball turn it wide for the corner kick.

Chloe Nixon diving to save Amy Morris’ strike on goal

Ottey defending the corner central inside the box as Moore looks to help it on from the near post. Simmonds conceding the corner as Middlemass looks to link up with Bailey on Beccles right. The hosts making their first change with Erin Rose coming on to replace Reeves in attack.

Morris taking the ball down on the right flank pushing forwards winning her side a corner kick, the initial delivery defended by Bloomfield, cleared back out to the right, Lever to fire it back into the area from deep angling in, Nixon calling for it, under pressure as Brundall attackers look to get onto the end of it, palms the ball down before her defence scramble it clear. The game open stretched at times as both sides look to get forwards quickly, Lever at the back for Brundall defending lunging in to deny Middlemass in the right channel as she looks to tee up Rose central.

Brundall’s Daisy Hill with Beccles, Erin Rose

Brundall making a change with Briec coming off on the right, Chloe Musson joining the action. Ottey looking to play a give and go with Bailey as she takes the ball left, Lever cutting out the return ball for Brundall. A couple of robust challenges as Hill looks to hold up Rose on the left. Moore clashing with Bloomfield central as both sides a determined to get hold of the ball. Brundall’s captain covering the ground looking to link up with the attack, Miglane sending the ball up to Morris, turns, Tiffin close in getting a foot on the ball.

Brundall’s, Viktorija Miglane

Rose taking on the shot from all of 25 yards out as she sees the ball run across her path from the right, on target but not troubling Wilson back in her six yard box as she palms the ball down into the turf to claim. Tiffin in the way to cut the pass out central as Morris advancing on the right looks to pick out Nash racing on through the middle. Another change for Brundall with Moore coming off to be replaced by Hannah Davidson taking up a position on the left of attack. Chloe Pawsey-Cole on too in place of Burwood.

Beccles defender, Georgia Tiffin

Miglane back to defend for Brundall as Rose is played on through the right channel for Beccles. Coe playing the ball out to Middlemass peeling right her shot on the angle collected low by Wilson at her near post. Fresh legs on the flanks for Brundall, Musson taking the ball up the right, Collins diving in with the challenge to see the ball behind. Nash coming off for Brundall with Sapphire Secker on taking up a defensive position. Morris on the corner curled into the box defended by Ottey comes back out to Morris wide on the right angles a dangerous ball in across the face of goal Clark breaking clear central and Davidson at the far post can’t quite get onto the end of it.

Brundall captain, Emma Clark

A counter from Beccles Bailey on for Middlemass right side cuts the cross back into the top of the area for Rose breaking through on goal the keeper coming to close her down pulls the trigger looking to put the ball across her, Wilson with the faintest off touches taking the ball wide behind for the corner kick. Both keepers called into action the sides still separated by a single goal.

Ottey fighting to win the ball back for Beccles in the middle played up to Coe turns it left into Bailey looks for Middlemass up the line, Simmonds getting her leg out to stop it for Brundall. Tired legs out their Brundall frustrated, not happy Beccles winning the 2nd balls Simmonds again with a timely stretch of the leg to deny Middlemass from bursting in behind as Bloomfield attempts the through ball.

Clark looking to take the ball on from Pawsey-Cole on the right has support with Morris, Coe getting back on her to defend for Beccles. Bailey sending a deep cross into the box from the right cleared by Secker back out to the right won back well by Kennard and drives a shot on the angle wide of the near post.

Moving into the last 10 minutes of the 2nd half Beccles winning a corner on the right, Ottey helping it on into the centre at the near post falls to Coe who sees her strike from the top of the six yard box blocked by Secker. Tiffin defending inside her box for Beccles as Clark driving on looks to take the ball on from Musson on the right. Brundall making another switch with Hill coming off and Elle Kendall coming on.

Miglane winning the ball for Brundall lifting it on up the right for Musson bursting forwards taking the ball on to the by-line Collins diving in to block the cross taking it behind for the corner kick. Morris to swing it into the box, Ottey winning it to clear for Beccles.

Both sides pushing for a goal the game stretched Rose and Middlemass pressing high up the pitch a free-kick won 25 yards out on the right. Swung into the area the keeper looks to get a touch as it flies wide of the far post but no a goal kick awarded. Coe seeing a misplaced goal kick put straight at her left of the D 20 yards out an awkward height to control nevertheless knocks it down into the area with Rose looking to latch onto it, Wilson out smartly though to grab hold of the ball.

Izzy Lever getting to the ball ahead of Erin Rose

Beccles pushing players on Middlemass into Rose linking up with Coe through the middle, on for Middlemass driving into the box, moving left then right under pressure form Miglane gets a shot away turns in frustration as it races wide of the near post. Kennard coming off late on for Beccles with Marie Carter coming on, the hosts looking to finish the game off Middlemass back to goal turning it into Rose on the right her cross/shot driven in across goal Coe running in far post can’t quite get there.

Brundall frustrated late in the game not finding the mark with the final ball. Vincent in to clear as Clark looks to try and find Miglane making a run forwards into the left channel. Pawsey-Cole on for Morris attacking on the right on for Musson but the flag goes up for offside, tempers raring up at the end of the game a couple of strong tackles coming in Beccles keeping the ball Clark hurt as she goes to kick the ball upfield her foot catching a Beccles player, the final whistle blowing soon after sees Beccles claim the 3 points to see the sides swap positions in the Division Two table.

Tempers flaring at the end Brundall clearly frustrated with the referee Morris is shown a red card, along with their coach.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies 1-0 Brundall Bolts Women

Beccles coming out on top of a bruising and competitive encounter, Lola Middlemass’ 1st half strike the difference between the two sides in the finish both goalkeepers called into action in the 2nd period to keep the opposition out. Chances coming and going Brundall not happy at the end a tough loss to take ending their recent good spell. Beccles climbing back above them into 3rd still 3 points between the 4 sides positioned 2nd to 5th with Beccles, Hickling and Martham all having 4 games left to play the race for 2nd will go all the way. Shrublands winning 4-1 at home to local rivals Great Yarmouth have played out their fixtures sit 11 points clear at the top only 2nd placed Hickling can catch them with maximum points from their final 4 games, 2 of those against Beccles and Brundall, both have a say in the destiny of the title race, Shrublands Ladies will be watching anxiously.

Women Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match and it’s another tough one with a couple of clear contenders. Performances of note across the pitch, firstly for Brundall, was a strong performance from their captain, Emma Clarke busy throughout covering the ground getting after the ball, joining the attack and looking to get her side into advanced positions. Viktorija Miglane got after the ball winning it well at the back and got it moving quickly. Amy Morris a threat in attack good link up play, found some good positions in the final 3rd and came closest to scoring. For Beccles, Lola Middlemass led the line well, pulling off the shoulders of the defence on several occasions scoring the goal as a result. Evie Bailey providing a strong outlet on the right ready to break forwards cause Brundall problems. Georgia Tiffin with several vital interceptions at the back and one on one challenges inside the box just misses out the award going to midfielder Vicky Ottey working hard all game winning the ball well in the middle, taking it forwards and helping out in defence.

Good to get a game in from Division Two will be intriguing to see where everyone finishes a few twists and turns yet I expect, good to catch up with Beccles and take my first look at Brundall, a competitive tussle. My thanks to Beccles for the team sheets as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup Final

Sunday 22nd March

Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup Final

Making the long trip down to Bedfordshire this Sunday to watch my first cup final game of the season, the Beds FA Women’s Junior Cup Final, with Woburn & Wavendon Women taking on Stotfold Women for the trophy.

Beds FA splitting the county cup into 2 competitions last season, the Senior and Junior Cups, the Junior Cup represented by those sides playing at county level giving them a realistic opportunity to compete for silverware, with the Senior Cup reserved for the sides playing at regional level and above, following other county FA’s in the East like Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, helps prevent the often one sided games that are seen sometimes in a county cup.

Today’s prize

Luton Town Ladies Reserves winning the inaugural Women’s Junior Cup last season beating Stotfold Women last season 2-1 to lift the trophy. Stotfold back again looking to bring the trophy home this time around.

Stotfold Women winning the Division One title in their debut season in 2023, winning promotion to the Premier Division have since been an established club competing at the top end of what is always a competitive league, winning the League Cup in 2024. Finishing 3rd last season 2 points behind eventual champions Hitchin Belles Women and Ampthill Town Ladies. Reaching the inaugural final of the Beds FA Junior Women’s Cup last season.

Enter a new era this season with Laurence Jack taking over as manager following the departure of Tom Olney. Seeing a few experienced moving on, have still retained a good chunk of last season’s squad along with bringing in new talent. Haven’t had to results in the league they would have liked, down to 8th in the Premier Division table with a run of 4 straight defeats in the league, have saved their best for for the county cup and will be aiming to go one better than last season and clinch victory finish the season strong. Amelia Klausner joining Stotfold early in the season is the current top scorer with 7 goals from 14 appearances, Charlotte Peters has 4 to her name.

Woburn & Wavendon FC entering a women’s side in various guises into the BHWGFL over the various season’s I’ve been doing Women’s Football East, the latest team into their 2nd season, currently 5th in the Division One table with games in hand on those above and will be pushing hard to match or better last season’s 4th place finish. Woburn & Wavendon FC have a strong youth section the girls side features teams from U10’s through to U16’s. The women’s side having brought in some useful experience to their squad and plenty of goal scorers too, Chelsea Jeffery leading the way has 23 alone from her 16 appearances. Princess Mgbemere is also into double figures on 10 with Casey Chapman one behind of 9. With 9 others all amongst the goals this season.

Road to the Final

Both sides receiving a bye in the first round of the Junior Cup progressing to the 2nd round. Woburn & Wavendon drawn away to Division Three side, Flitwick Eagles Ladies Blues, the goals flowing with 4 players all scoring a brace, Chelsea Jeffery, Casey Chapman, Princess Mgbemere and Jodi McClelland with Cerys Saunders, Rosie White-McColl and Aimee Esser also getting a goal in an 11-1 victory. A potential banana skin for Stotfold who were also drawn away to take on Real Bedford Women Development who having moved across to play in the Cambridgeshire league this season are looking strong at the top of Division Two, no such worries for Stotfold however as 1st half goals from Amelia Klausner and Charlotte Ryan saw them through with a 2-0 win

Into the quarter finals Woburn & Wavendon away to Premier Division strugglers, Langford Ladies, goals from McClelland, Jeffery, Chapman and Mgbemere seeing them through to the last 4 comfortably 4-1 the final score. Stotfold at home playing Division Two side EB Lions AFC Ladies in the last 8, 4 goals too for the hosts with Gracie Applin netting twice plus a goal each for Chloe Keller and Nia Kourmourou.

Into the semi-finals two tough looking ties, Woburn & Wavendon at home taking on the defending champions, Luton Town Ladies Development, a close game the sides sharing 5 goals, Chapman, Mgbemere and Esser all on the scoresheet for Woburn & Wavendon to send them into their first final with a 3-2 win. Stotfold away to fellow Premier Division side, Ampthill Town Ladies, Applin scoring for Stotfold the scores level at 1-1 after the 90 minutes were up heading straight to penalties, Stotfold edging the shootout 5-4 to make it back to back Junior Cup Final appearances.

Kempston Rovers FC the venue for this afternoon’s final always a hive of activity with the artificial pitches beyond the main grass pitch seeing plenty of action. The large grass pitch sees alot of action is a little bobbly in places but offers good width with standing viewing all-round with a covered stand along one side offering seating and terraced areas, the bar open along with a food hut. A mid day as we move into spring proper a little heat in the sun but as has been the theme so far in 2026 the cloud cover still lingers. No chance of rain however.

Woburn & Wavendon Women starting XI – Chloe Johnson, Loren Elliot (C), Emily Grimes, Sharna Halai, Klaudia Gnitecka, Cerys Saunders, Kimberley Newns, Cerys Saunders, Jodi McClelland, Princess Mgbemere & Chelsea Jeffery. Subs – Aimee Esser, Tia Ellis & Abigail King.

Woburn & Wavendon Women

Stotfold Women starting XI – Orlagh Daly, Chloe Keller, Nieve Buckley, Nia Kourmourou, Charlotte Ryan, Amy Jacks (C), Charlotte Peters, Keira How, Freya Taylor-Burton, Sharyl Thwaites & Amelia Klausner. Subs – Alex Lewis, Estelle Klausner, Maizie Marsh, Grace Applin & Samantha Watler.

Stotfold Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Loren Elliot and Amy Jack with today’s match referee Tamia Chikaviro-Trainor & her two assistants, Emma Chamberlain & Liz Choonara

Pedro Cotelo the fourth official for today’s final, the game going straight to penalties should the scores be level after 90 minutes. It’s Woburn & Wavendon to get the final underway with the kick-off first half wearing an all claret kit, Stotfold opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Lifting the ball forwards Casey Chapman hooks it up high away to the left, Freya Taylor-Burton cutting it out for Stotfold, won quickly back by Princess Mgbemere, the ball at her feet surges forwards wide lifts a cross the top of the box, Chapman moving into attack it inside the D, Charlotte Ryan heading it clear for Stotfold.

Woburn & Wavendon making a positive start pushing players forwards, Stotfold looking a little nervous at the back, Chelsea Jeffery hanging back, seeing the ball into her feet from Kimberly Newns played out to the left, a throw won. Mgbemere putting herself about early on taking on players clips a high ball into the box from the left knocked back out to the left Jeffery after it on the angle, her cross blocked by Taylor-Burton. Good pressing from Woburn & Wavendon in the opening minutes.

Play drawn over to the left, Cerys Saunders breaking from the middle for Woburn & Wavendon her run spotted the diagonal ball played into her path knocks it on towards the top of the area right of the D 20 yards out strikes the ball goal wards, plenty of pace behind it angling in on target, goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly getting down sharply to make the blocking save the ball knocked back out towards the penalty spot, Mgbemere onto it stabbing a shot back towards goal, Daly with a superb double save recovering quickly from the first save to get up and low to her right to turn the ball wide for a corner kick.

A fine double save from Stotfold goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly

The corner taken short up the line on the left the cross angled into the near post, Daly calling for it, Ryan taking no chances getting her head on the ball to push it back out to the left. A chance for Stotfold to relief the pressure as they mount a counter attack captain Amy Jack on for Charlotte Peters out to Taylor-Burton racing on down the right wing inside for Klausner, Sharna Halai in well to close her down at the back for Woburn & Wavendon.

Stotfold come away with the ball, Ryan on for How has Peters up with her the pass into her she sends it on for Sharyl Thwaites pulling into the left channel moves inside taking the ball across the top of the D before wrapping her foot around the strike, angling in at the far post, Emily Grimes defending for Woburn & Wavendon, up to the top of her area, Stotfold pushing players on the ball charged down spinning away to the right for a throw in. The game settling down into a more even affair after Woburn & Wavendon’s positive start.

Jeffery sending the ball into McClelland attacking on the right, Nieve Buckley in to challenge the ball out for a throw, taken quickly McClelland turning well to send a cross into the six yard box, Ryan there to head it away to safety for Stotfold. Jack playing the ball on through the middle up to Klausner back to goal turns the ball on for Taylor-Burton racing past her on the right wing from the angle flashes a cross/shot in at goal, high goalkeeper Chloe Johnson throwing a glove up to turn the ball on across her area, play halted however with the flag up for offside.

Stotfold’s Nieve Buckley with Woburn & Wavendon’s, Jodi McClelland

Competitive with both sides going in to close the other down, a few robust challenges coming in, Woburn & Wavendon captain, Loren Elliot right side playing the ball on for McClelland up the wing, Chapman up with her the ball in across the top of the area, Jeffery the target, Jack stretching out a leg to knock it into her defence to clear. How seeing the ball played into her feet breaks down the left tracking inside to get into the box, closed down by Halai the ball out for the throw in. Both sides using the whole pitch Elliot up to Mgbemere 25 yards out, Ryan moving out of defence to make the challenge, Mgbemere fighting to keep hold of the ball the defender nipping in to get across her to clear the ball into midfield.

Woburn & Wavendon’s, Princess Mgbemere bringing the ball on

Flowing football from Stotfold How taking it on left channel inside to Klausner, helped onto Peters, returned to Klausner she lays it back to Peters to burst into the box right of the D, her touch a little heavy sees the ball run away behind for the goal kick. Lively, Jeffery on for Mgbemere, drives on with the ball, Burton-Taylor back to help Kourmourou in defence played back into the middle, Jack looking to find Klausner up top, Halai staying with her cutting the pass out.

Saunders on for Chapman as Woburn & Wavendon attack through the middle lifts the ball up to Jeffery 25 yards out, back to goal nods the ball down to her left into the feet of the on rushing Mgbemere as she looks to take the ball on into the box right channel, Buckley stepping up to put in the tackle to deny her a shooting opportunity. Burton-Taylor looks to break away down the right for Stotfold, Grimes looks to track back with her pulling up sharply going down in some discomfort, is unable to continue helped off the pitch, not wanting to put any weight on her right ankle, on in her place comes, Tia Ellis.

How fouled deep on the left, Stotfold with a free-kick inside the Woburn & Wavendon half Buckley to launch the ball up into the box, defended the ball cleared Woburn & Wavendon launching a counter attack the ball sent on for Mgbemere on the left driving on forces her way into the box before laying it back to Jeffery positioned top of the D, puts her foot through the ball, rifling a shot in on goal over the keeper, strikes the crossbar and over for a goal-kick.

Mgbemere physical making a nuisance of herself difficult to shake off the ball as upended outside the box to the left, a dangerous ball clipped into the six yard box, Daly getting a good fist on the ball to knock it clear of her area. Jeffery latching onto a loose goal-kick carries the ball forwards to the right, Buckley blocking the attempted cross. Midway through the 1st half a lively contest, Woburn & Wavendon seeing slightly more of the ball Jeffery holding it up, Mgbemere, Chapman and McClelland looking to bomb on. Stotfold defending, Ryan getting in a number of tackles the latest on Mgbemere as she looks to fight her way into the area. McClelland shaking off her marker in midfield, taking on the strike from 35 yards out, Daly right behind it to gather the ball up.

Peters sending the ball out to Burton-Taylor on the right plays in inside for Klausner to shoot on the angle from 25 yards out her low effort covered by Johnson at the near post. Ryan and Mgbemere enjoying a good contest as the attacker tries to shake the Stotfold defender off.

Stotfold’s Charlotte Ryan

Klausner getting onto the end of another Stotfold free kick launched long into the box, to the right of goal volleying it up back towards the near post, Johnson with a good reach getting up well to pluck the ball down at the near post to prevent it dropping down in front of goal. Mgbemere grappling for possession in midfield, emerging with the ball looking to release Jeffery in attack Stotfold’s back line pushed up holding their line see’s the attacker flagged offside.

Half an hour played, Peters closing the ball down well in the final 3rd central, pushed into Thwaite moving left into the top of the area, drags the ball inside before reversing her pass to lay it on for How to the left from the angle fires the ball in across goal, Peters having broken forwards to get in on goal at the far post can’t quite get it under control. Johnson out quickly to the top of her area to smother the ball as Klausner looks to link up with Burton-Taylor on the right. Thwaite nipping in to close the ball down top of the area getting a shot away left of goal, the attempt straight at the keeper, Johnson claiming comfortably.

GOAL! Stotfold getting the ball on through the middle Jack forwards into the right channel 30 yards out putting her foot through the ball the ball racing on into the box, Klausner pulling off the defence to the left of the D inside the box, in the clear to get a touch on the ball to divert it up and over the keeper to drop into the back of the net and send Stotfold into the lead 0-1.

Amelia Klausner congratulated by her teammates as she breaks in behind to open the scoring for Stotfold

Woburn & Wavendon not happy feel their was an element of offside about the goal, but the decision stands they trail with 33 minutes played. Get back on the attack from the restart, Jeffery seeing the ball into her feet well using it’s momentum to turn it into the path of Chapman surging past her to latch onto the strike 20 yards out central, flashed in at Daly fast the keeper stopping it with her legs her defence getting it away to safety.

Woburn & Wavendon’s Casey Chapman

Woburn & Wavendon using Jeffery well, holding the ball up allowing others to push on make runs past her, McClelland taking the ball on stopped by Ryan top of the area. Mgbemere rushing in to try and get hold of the loose ball ends up fouling Ryan. Buckley playing a useful ball from deep into How moving into the Woburn & Wavendon box, Halai with the challenge to deny a shooting opportunity. Jack putting the pass into Taylor-Burton breaking on down the left, her cross stood up at the near post, Johnson turning it behind for the corner kick.

Sharyl Thwaites with Woburn & Wavendon’s Kimberly Newns

The corner from the right defended at the near post turned away to the top of the area, Thwaite running onto the loose ball striking it low in towards goal, Johnson down quickly behind it to make the save. The game stretched at times, Woburn & Wavendon getting players up quickly when ever they turn play around, Peters coming back to defend top of her area on Chapman as Jeffery and Mgbemere link up on the left side.

Ryan in to charge the ball down as McClelland looks to bring it down off her chest inside the D to fashion a shot as Mgbemere evades tackles to get the ball into her from the left. Jack taking a knock needing a moment to recover Woburn & Wavendon busy as the 1st half draws to a close, Chapman up with Mgbemere on the left fighting to get into the box, Stotfold converging to squeeze the space the ball popping loose falls to Jeffery 20 yards out leaning into the shot angles the ball in on goal, dips late over Daly but not quite enough as it sails narrowly over the crossbar.

Into the final minute of the 1st half Stotfold on the attack Peters laying the ball on for How making a move into the box from the left, the pass cut out by Saunders, Klausner attempting to burst through into the area after the loose ball, goes down appeals as How comes inside across the D putting a reverse strike in on goal, Johnson diving down to her left getting behind the ball to save. Kourmourou defending for Stotfold in stoppage time as Saunders delivers an early cross from the right into Jeffery top of the D.

Half-time Woburn & Wavendon Women 0-1 Stotfold Women

The two sides head back into the changing rooms with Stotfold holding a narrow advantage, Amelia Klausner in behind the defence to lift the ball over the keeper to score in the 33rd minute. Could have been a much different story had it not been for a vital double save from Orlagh Daly at the start of the contest as Woburn & Wavendon started brightly getting players on well have caused problems. Stotfold a little nervous early in but settled into the game an even contest both getting on well creating opportunities, Woburn & Wavendon brushing the crossbar will feel unlucky not to be heading in at half-time leading themselves. Stotfold have the edge however and will be keen to add to that in the 2nd half.

It’s Stotfold unchanged to get the 2nd half underway, a change for Woburn & Wavendon with Aimee Esser coming on taking up a position on the right Newns the player off. The ball rolled back into midfield launched up through the middle, Halai clearing for Woburn & Wavendon. Mgbemere getting her head down taking the ball forwards through the middle sending it on for Chapman bursting forwards, Daly out quickly to the top of her area to get down claim the ball.

Stotfold captain, Amy Jack fighting for the ball with Woburn & Wavendon’s Cerys Saunders

Klausner up on the right linking up with Taylor-Burton up the wing delivering the cross into the box, Halai intercepting to clear for Woburn & Wavendon. Jack carrying a knock down for a moment, picks herself up wanting to carry on. Stotfold looking to get on in attack at the start of the 2nd half, Klausner taking the ball on left flank turning into the box, held up lays it on into Thwaite making a run into the D, tugged back, referee Tamia Chikaviro-Taylor awarding the free-kick. The set-piece inside the D to the left Jack to take goes for goal getting the ball up well in on target, Johnson behind it throwing her arms up to save tipping the shot up over her bar for the corner kick.

Chloe Johnson turning Amy Jack’s free-kick over the bar

GOAL! Buckley with the corner kick on the right a good ball clipped into the mix, Jack up well to turn her header on across the top of the six yard box controlled beyond the far post and fired back in across the face of goal, Peters stooping down to get her head on the ball power it over the line from close range doubling Stotfold’s lead 0-2.

The captain likes that one as Stotfold double their lead

Charlotte Peters doubling Stotfold’s lead

Stotfold with a good opening 10 minutes in the 2nd half doubling their lead, a blow for Woburn & Wavendon. Jack having picked up a knock coming off, for Stotfold with Alex Lewis coming on. Their tails up Stotfold regain the ball in the middle, sent on for Taylor-Burton on the right crosses it inside early into Thwaite 20 yards out, closed down by Gnitecka. How substituted by Stotfold with Gracie Applin entering the game. Saunders controlling the ball looking to fire it up to Jeffery 25 yards out, Peters cutting the ball out for Stotfold.

Cerys Saunders

Woburn & Wavendon remain lively looking to get players on Mgbemere up with Chapman on the left look to exchange passes drive on, Kourmourou getting her foot in for Stotfold at the back. Jeffery turning the ball on for Esser pushing on down the right her cross into the box intercepted by Ryan. Peters playing a great ball on for Thwaites pushing on up the left turning into the box, just over hits the ball allowing Halai to nip in ahead of her stab it back to her keeper to launch clear.

Woburn & Wavendon’s Sharna Halai

Both sides going for it 2nd half the game open, Jack returning to the action sending the ball on for Thwaites left of the D into the box her strike saved by Johnson with her legs getting down behind the ball. End to end as Applin has a punt from range blocked, Woburn & Wavendon counter, Mgbemere stealing in to take the ball off Peters put on for Esser right side fed back inside to Mgbemere who lays it back into the top of the area with the Stotfold defence rapidly back peddling, Jeffery onto it seeing her shot blocked by Ryan.

Woburn & Wavendon attacker, Chelsea Jeffery

Another change for Woburn & Wavendon, Elliot coming off, Abigail King coming on moving to the right Esser over to the left. Wins her side a corner kick. Thwaites coming off for Stotfold with Samantha Watler coming on. Halai brining the ball out from the back for Woburn & Wavendon threads the ball on into the left channel looking for Esser, Taylor-Burton back to cut it out for Stotfold.

Woburn & Wavendon fighting for the ball in the middle, Mgbemere into McClelland laying it out to Chapman moving right digs the cross out looping into the six yard box, threatening to drop over the keeper, with Jeffery closing in unmarked beyond, Daly does well to get something on it take it away to the left, Esser looking to keep it alive looks to be bundled over as two defenders converge on her, appeals but nothing doing.

Klausner fouling Gnitecka as she looks to take the ball past the defender on the right as Woburn & Wavendon commit players forwards. Ellis also getting a timely challenge in on Klausner as the attacker looks to nip in on the ball. A corner won on the right, put high into the top of the crowded six yard box, Johnson up through bodies to punch the ball away to the top of the area Lewis looking to run into the shot blasted in, blocked by Gnitecka.

Applin frustrated pulling her shirt up over her head as she controls the ball sweetly bringing it down well 20 yards out to turn and shoot dragging her effort narrowly wide of the right post.

Gracie Applin frustrated as she sends her shot wide.

Keller in to defend for Stotfold the ball played up to Applin looking to get away on the right, tripped by Mgbemere awarded the free-kick. From deep launched up towards the box, Ellis under it to clear for Woburn & Wavendon. The ball finding its way up to Jeffery in attack out out to Esser on the left back inside to Mgbemere looking to take players on, is fouled by Lewis winning the free-kick. Stotfold ringing the changes, Keller, Buckley and Peters have left the field, Estelle Klausner, Samantha Watler and Maizie Marsh into the action as they look to see out the game.

Gracie Applin

Ellis with a vital header at the back too get the ball away as Applin looks to get onto a diagonal ball played into the box from the left. Mgbemere and Ryan continue their contest fighting for possession of the ball the attacker getting the free-kick this time around. The game stretched with Woburn & Wavendon looknig to find a way through on goal, Lewis sending it on up the left, Estelle Klausner looking too get after it, Gnitecka defending for Woburn & Wavendon.

Klaudia Gnitecka getting to the ball before Stotfold’s Amelia Klausner

The clock ticking down a few tired legs out there, Mgbemere still hard to get off the ball, pressing on, closed down pops loose to Jeffery, looks to get Esser away on the left, cut out by Jack. Woburn & Wavendon winning a free-kick out to the left a chance to throw players up into the box try and force a late goal.

GOAL! A great ball into the box Jeffery up well to get her head on the ball from the penalty spot drive it in on goal comes at Daly quickly a reactive save knocking the ball up onto her crossbar, rebounds down into the six yard box, Woburn & Wavendon’s attacker surge forwards, Esser onto it firing the ball over the line from close range to pull a goal back and set up a nervy final few minutes 1-2.

Aimee Esser, (blue boots) forces the ball over the line to pull a goal back for Woburn & Wavendon

Stotfold look to get the ball into the final 3rd played on Ellis defending for Woburn & Wavendon. Halai shown a yellow card as she takes out Watler as she carries the ball on. Applin winning the ball back high on the right hooks the ball in on goal, Johnson back on her line under it to safely take it down into her gloves. Little time left in the game as Woburn & Wavendon look for one last chance to try and take the final to penalties, Jeffery bringing the ball down outside the box, looking to strike it on the half volley slicing the ball wide. That’s it the final whistle blows and Stotfold celebrate as they win this season’s Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup.

Full -time Woburn & Wavendon Women 1-2 Stotfold Women

An entertaining cup final played largely in a good spirit by two determined sides, Stotfold holding the narrow advantage in the 1st half, coming out focused on getting a 2nd early in the 2nd half got players on to join the attack created opportunities and doubled the lead in the 55th minute from a well worked corner. Both keepers making saves as the game grew stretched players tiring, Stotfold not quite able to find a 3rd goal to make thing’s comfortable as Woburn & Wavendon kept probing finally finding a goal themselves in the final minute, Stotfold seeing out the final few moments of the match to ensure the win having missed out last season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, certainly a few contenders for this one on both sides several good performances. Firstly for Woburn & Wavendon a solid defensive performance from Sharna Halai at the back, won numerous tackles and closed the ball down well throughout. Jodi McClelland and Casey Chapman got forwards well to support the attack, looking to find a way through on goal set up others. Chelsea Jeffery with some great hold up play used the ball well strong in possession. Princess Mgbemere caused problems throughout hard to shake off the ball, driving at the defence. For Stotfold, goalkeeper Orlagh Daly’s fine double save at the start ensured her side weren’t on the back foot early on. Charlotte Peters using the ball well getting forwards to support the attack. Freya Taylor-Burton providing a good outlet ready to take the ball on down the right flank. The Stotfold defence all playing their part with some vital tackles the award going to Charlotte Ryan was strong throughout getting in her tackles and intercepting the ball.

Congratulations to Stotfold Women on winning this season’s Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup.

Stotfold Women 2025/26 Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup Winners

A long trip to Bedfordshire, was an enjoyable cup final to get the set piece games underway, a decent crowd of 253 in attendance. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team sheets and to the staff at Beds FA for their assistance and hospitality, one final down plenty to look forwards too.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Woodbridge Town Ladies v Needham Market Women Development

Sunday 15th March

Suffolk Women’s Premiership

Making the trip down into Suffolk this Sunday to catch some action from the Suffolk Women’s Premiership with 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies hosting Needham Market Women Development currently 2nd in the table.

The Suffolk Women’s Premiership growing from just 7 teams last season back to 11 for this campaign, with Ramsey & Mistley Ladies, Halesworth Town Women, Kesgrave Kestrals Ladies and Bacton United Ladies promoted from the Championship below, along with AFC Sudbury Women entering their Reserves side into the division. It’s Sudbury that lead the way looking strong dropping just 2 points, unbeaten in 11 matches at the top of the table, today’s opponents amongst those looking to try and chase them down, or at least clinch a top 3 finish.

Woodbridge Town Ladies have been an established side in the Premiership for several season’s now, champions back in 2021, finished runners-up last season. Have also enjoyed success in the League Cup winning the trophy in 2023. Began this season under new management, with Ashley Rankin the new head coach assisted by Natalie Claridge. Getting good support from Woodbridge Town FC itself very much part of the club. A 2-1 win over Championship side, Ipswich Valley Rangers two weekends ago seeing them win through to another League Cup final appearance where they will be taking on AFC Sudbury Women Reserves who they drew 2-2 in the opening game of the season.

Are playing catch up with their league fixtures having played just 7 of their 20 scheduled games so far, seeing several postponements and the cup run impacting that tally a busy run in then, just the 1 defeat in those 7 matches with 5 wins and a draw lifting them up to 4th and well placed to push on for the top 2 and try to put pressure on the leaders. Sadie Jamieson is Woodbridge’s top scorer, with 14 goals in her 9 appearances. Freya Emerick has 5 goals having also played 9.

Needham Market Women Development too have become an established side in the Suffolk Women’s Premiership, reaching the League Cup final themselves last season, suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Alresford Colne Rangers to miss out on reaching this season’s League Plate final. That bringing an end to a run of 9 league and cup games undefeated including a run of 7 straight league wins that has powered them up to 2nd in the Premiership table, making full use of having an all weather pitch to get their games in have played 13 of their 20 scheduled so far.

The Development squad looking to push for the first team squad playing in the ERWFL, Needham Market with it’s academy set up has become one of the fastest growing clubs in Suffolk in recent times, building a healthy rivalry with AFC Sudbury along the way. Plenty of goals within the squad, Imogen Porch top scorer with 8 to her names while Lexie Ferris has 7 , Paige Pugh on 6 and Megan Smith netting 5, goals spread out too with 9 others contributing so far this a season.

The Homestyle UK Ground the venue for today’s match, home of Woodbridge Town FC to the north east of Ipswich just off the A12. Has been a good while since I last visited this ground for a women’s league cup final way back when. The clubhouse and bar leading into the stadium itself, a grass pitch with standing viewing all round and a small covered seated stand and terraced stand opposite the dugouts. Practice pitches beside, a keen wind blowing across the open ground into the stadium, with rain forecast later the sun isn’t having much effect cloud cover which has been the feature of the year so far playing its part.

Woodbridge Town Ladies starting XI – Eloisa Bruce, Chloe Stopher, Caitlin Howe. Alice Ager (C), Lauren Jacobs, Grace Murphy, Kimberley Stock, Stacey Hadley, Georgia Lindon, Rhianna Kiwomya & Charlene Roach-Smith. Subs – Lola Beaumont, Amy Stockley, Shannon Green, Evie Swanton & Sadie Jamieson.

Woodbridge Town Ladies

Needham Market Women Development starting XI – Daisy Morris, Khyla Anderson-Hayler (C), Ella Stone, Maddi Steward, Montana Swift, Sophia Gillingham, Izzy Haste, Esme Marsh, Faith Witmore, Lexie Ferris & Immy Porch. Subs – Poppy Dyson, Megan Smith, Eve Boggis, Paige Pugh & Jae Lewis-Samuel.

Needham Market Women Development

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Alice Ager and Khyla Anderson-Hayler with todays match referee

The wind is going to play a part in the game for sure the open nature of the pitches beyond the stadium and the wind direction across the pitch quite strong. Needham Market to get the game underway kicking off the 1st half wearing their away colours, yellow shirts with black trim, black shorts and black and yellow socks. Woodbridge lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Sadie Jamieson named on the bench for the hosts Freya Emerick unavailable. Both side with 5 on the bench to call from if needed. The ball rolled back to Esme Marsh central she lifts it out to the right, Faith Witmore looking to get on Woodbridge move in quickly to close the ball down.

Both sides into each other at the start play condensed in the middle, the Woodbridge defence pushed up to keep things tight. Stacey Hadley getting hold of the ball in the middle for Woodbridge opening up her body to play the ball out into the right wing with space for Rhianna Kiwomya to run into, the wind getting behind the ball, gives defender Maddi Steward the edge as she moves across from the middle of defence to take the ball into the corner sending it out for a throw. Launched up towards the edge of the area helped on into the box, goalkeeper, Daisy Morris and grab hold of it on the bounce before Georgia Lindon can get past her marker onto the ball.

Left back Ella Stone sends the ball forwards up the wing for Lexie Ferris to chase down on the wing for Needham Market drives to the by-line checking into the box before standing the ball up to the top of the six yard box, Immy Porch meeting it 1st time her touch lifting the ball up into the air and frustratingly just over the bar.

Needham Market’s, Immy Porch

The game is lively Needham Market busy looking to pass the ball short into each other work it on quickly, Stone inside to Izzy Haste linking up with Marsh attempts the through ball for Porch up to, the ball cut out by Lauren Jacobs at the back for the hosts. Steward with the ball at her feet at the back for Needham Market allowed to travel into midfield before lifting a long pass into the left wing for Ferris, Caitlin Howe tracking back with her, cutting it out for Woodbridge.

Woodbridge’s Lauren Jacobs

Howe and Ferris battling for the ball, the defender coming away with it sending it on up the right for Kiwomya ahead of her, taking the ball on comes back inside to stab a cross into the top of the area, Sophia Gillingham defending for the visitors sending the ball out for a throw on the left, Woodbridge look to put pressure forcing a corner kick. The corner curled into the area, cleared by the Needham Market defence, look to get on the counter, Woodbridge getting numbers back into midfield quickly to close the passing options down.

Haste plays a good pass into the channel for Ferris to attack taking it forwards held up by Howe comes inside 20 out tries to pick out Porch central, Kimberley Stock intercepting the ball and clears for the hosts. The windy conditions not helping the game bitty neither side affording the other time on the ball, play often congested in the middle, Woodbridge’s back line confident to squeeze up, Needham Market very much a technical side not looking to test them with balls over the top to get them turned around.

Woodbridge awarded a free-kick wide on the left deep in the Needham Market half, captain Alice Ager over it, fires a pacy ball up towards the near post, no one can get a touch as is skips on through the the keeper. Howe tackling Ferris as she looks to force her way through on the wing, the full back playing the ball up the right wing for Kiwomya to run onto powers forwards taking on the cross early firing the ball in across the top of the area, Hadley breaking forwards can’t quite take it on into her stride to give herself a shooting opportunity inside the box.

Woodbridge’s Caitlin Howe defending on Needham Market’s Lexie Ferris

Grace Murphy combining with Stock in the middle the ball played on for Lindon moving left, sends it on for Charlene Roach-Smith, closed down quickly by Montana Swift with the blocking tackle. Kiwomya finding a little space on the right side with players often pulled over to the opposite side of the pitch, the diagonal ball from Murphy seeing her away to make a right for the box, Steward getting back on he lunging in to take the ball behind for the corner kick. Plenty of pace on the delivery flashed in dangerously across the six yard box, no one can get a touch however.

Needham Market break well a ball from Haste clipped over the defence sees Marsh steal through the middle to make a run towards the box, goalkeeper, Eloisa Bruce caught for a moment on whether to risk coming out to close the ball down or retreat to cover her goal, Marsh using the hesitation as the keeper starts to come to lay the ball into Witmore bursting on to support right corner of the area, smashes the ball in towards goal, annoyed as it flashes over the crossbar.

Needham Market’s Faith Witmore

Two sides cancelling each other out to a degree, Woodbridge squeezing play well, Needham Market looking to be crisp and quick with their passing, haven’t the room as the hosts are able to close down without finding the killer ball of their own. Ager and Howe intercepting at one end, Steward covering the top of the box well for the visitors. Stone playing the ball on for Ferris left for Needham Market comes inside her cross charged down by Howe corner of the area, gets a 2nd bite at it standing the ball up to the top of the D, Porch up well to nod the ball down towards goal, drops wide of the left post Howe sending it clear.

Needham Market creating chances, Witmore seeing the ball down as Steward takes it forwards from the back, has her captain, Khyla Anderson-Hayler bombing past her on the overlap, sends the ball into her the cross taken early flashed into the near post, Bruce blocking it with her legs cleared by Stopher. Steward into Stone wide left for the visitors plays the one two with Ferris inside her goes on up the wing looking for Ferris with the return ball inside, Jacobs cutting it out for Woodbridge clearing for a throw in.

Maddi Steward

Lexie Ferris with Rhianna Kiwomya

Both sides going in to close the ball down, Swift for Needham Market, Stock for Woodbridge the ball popping about in the middle the visitors get a break knocking a bouncing ball forwards awkward for the Woodbridge defence, Porch taking advantage to get hold of the ball run in behind carry the ball right before shooting on the angle her 25 yard effort taken cleanly into her gloves by Bruce at her near post.

Woodbridge goalkeeper, Eloisa Bruce

Changes for Needham Market midway closing in on the half hour mark, Megan Smith and Jae Lewis-Samuels coming on, Stone and Porch taken off. Woodbridge with a change too, Lola Beaumont on to replaced Lindon. Woodbridge unhappy they haven’t a corner as Kiwomya breaks away on the right, doesn’t quite keep the ball in as she tries to cross from the by-line under challenge by Steward. Howe getting the ball down well off her chest to intercept as Haste attempts the diagonal ball into Ferris on the right, missed and the winger has the opportunity to run in behind test the keeper.

A scrappy contest most certainly the wind playing a part the ball gaining ground on the Woodbridge attackers trying to give chase, Stock carrying it on left side forwards into Roach-Smith sends in inside, Gillingham stabbing a foot out diverting it away from Hadley. Haste with good control in the middle playing some good balls forwards, just can’t unlock a determined Woodbridge defence, Howe continues her contest with Ferris.

Needham Market midfielder, Izzy Haste

Ager into Murphy the midfielder playing in out to Kiwomya on the right wing, checks inside as Smith goes to tackle, Steward into close her down rapidly, the ball turned out for as the challenge comes in. Lively in the middle, Murphy and Marsh fighting for the ball, Needham Market find Haste’s feet plays a timely ball forwards into the left wing that see’s Ferris in behind Howe moving on towards the area left of the D, Bruce comes racing out to try and close her down, Ferris shoots early the ball past the keeper, but so to the left post.

Woodbridge regain possession at the back, Howe into Murphy in the centre sends it on for Roach-Smith left channel held up plays it across the top of the D into Kiwomya right of goal, slips as she goes to shoot her attempt swerving favourably for the goalkeeper to claim. Haste clipping a ball on for Ferris left side, Howe coming back at her out for a throw taken quickly by Smith on for Ferris racing on up the wing squares it inside for Lewis-Samuels 25 out left of the D, tries to divert it on into the box with Ferris pushing inside, doesn’t quite come off. Into the closing seconds of the 1st half Needham Market push players on through the middle Marsh on with Lewis-Samuels, Ager in well to close her down.

Half-time Woodbridge Town Ladies 0-0 Needham Market Women Development

The sides head into the changing rooms with the score goalless at the break. Not a half for the purest has been scrappy at times play congested with Woodbridge squeezing up well limiting space, that said it’s Needham Market who have had the best of the chances another day might be 2 or 3 goals to the good, nevertheless haven’t found the mark. Woodbridge keeping it tight at the back the defence working hard as a unit winning individual battles the ball not still for long both sides have gotten on with thing’s the wind definitely affecting things but both sides playing under the same conditions, will be interesting to see if either side can find the break through in the 2nd half.

A triple change for Woodbridge at the start of the 2nd half, with Sadie Jamieson, Amy Stock and Evie Swanton coming on for, Roach-Smith, Kimberley Stock, and Stopher. Swift and Ferris off for Needham Market, Evie Boggis and Paige Pugh on. It’s Woodbridge to get the 2nd half underway the wind still keen blowing across the pitch. Played back to the defence, Needham Market rush forwards looknig to close things down options choked the ball lost for a throw in to the visitors.

Lewis-Samuels looking to take the ball on from the throw on the right. Jacobs coming across to put the blocking tackle in the ball out for a throw, Needham Market busy at the start of the 2nd half looking to get players on the ball on the flanks, Haste looking to play Witmore in on the right, the wind catching the rolling ball taking it out of play before she can reach it. Another change for Woodbridge as Murphy comes off in the middle, Shannon Green coming on.

Stockley sending the ball into Green looks to lift it into Jamieson up top as she holds it up, tries to go beyond her, Steward in close denying the chance getting a foot on the ball, Marsh sending it on up to Pugh central, Ager lunging in to tackle stops her as she looks to force a way into the D. Jamieson giving Woodbridge a focal point in attack, Hadley through the middle getting a ball past Steward, Smith round well on the cover to to the ball first to clear for the visitors.

Woodbridge getting players forwards more in the 2nd period Green taking the ball out to the right, prods it on for Beaumont, her cross charged down. Anderson-Hayler combines with Witmore on the right getting up with her the ball fed into her feed looks to turn inside, Ager tight on her to make the challenge. Marsh pushing on with the ball through the middle forced left on for Boggis, Bruce out quickly to the top of her area to clear the ball away, then again as Needham Market are quick to retrieve on that side.

Needham Market captain, Khyla Anderson-Hayler

Play remains congested to larger extent players drawn to the ball, leading to players snapping in to cut out passes the ball popping about, Pugh getting the pass into Witmore finding space to steal into on the right, her cross on the run too close to the keeper, Bruce stooping to scoop it up at her near post. A brief appearance by the sun as the clouds part, Needham Market winning a corner on the left, into the wind doesn’t travel cleared near side, Smith latching onto it on the angle 30 yards out drives her attempt wide across the area out past the far post.

Alice Ager moving in to defend on Faith Witmore

Haste with some good balls on through the middle trying to tee up those ahead of her, again the wind takes it away from Pugh as Bruce comes up to the top of her area to deal with it. Steward getting across to the right to deal with Kiwomya as she battles get on with the ball out on the wing. Both sides busy as the 2nd half approaches the 20 minute mark.

GOAL! The deadlock is broke, Woodbridge getting the ball on through the middle, Green sending it up to Jamieson, Beaumont up with her putting the defence under pressure the ball escaping in behind, running for the box. Morris starts to comes hesitates and both attackers race on, the ball blocked spins out too the right Kiwomya inside the area puts her foot through it launching the ball on the angle into the back of the net. 1-0.

Woodbridge celebrate as Rhianna Kiwomya fires them into the lead

More frustration for Witmore as another promising ball into the right wing is caught by the wind. Haste linking up with Marsh through the middle for the visitors almost finds a way through but for the foot of Ager getting in the way as she diverts the ball for Stockley to clear. Gillingham wining the ball back at the back for Needham Market as Jamieson seeing the ball down looks to peel into the left channel, cleared long up to Witmore surging on up the right, Beaumont back to help in defence for Woodbridge.

Witmore keeping the ball in on the right wing carries it away coming to the by-line, her attempt to cross blocked by Ager. Marsh looking for Pugh turns the ball into Boggis pushing on left side, Howe quick to close her down. Needham Market making a triple Steward, Haste, and Witmore giving way for Poppy Dyson, Stone and Porch for the final 20 minutes. Green into space sending the ball up to Jamieson shoots as she moves right not enough on it through safely to the keeper.

Ager defending for Woodbridge as Needham Market look to push players on, the clear ball struck from distance flighted past the right post. Lewis-Samuels in of the right into Pugh moves central but plays a clever reverse pass into the box for Porch pulling off the defence, right of goal, Bruce out to deal can see the ball out for the goal-kick. The game opening up alot more now with all the changes being made Green up with Jamieson through the middle sees the ball helped on for Green to shoot from 25 yards out the ball skipping up off the turf in front of Morris, does see her get hold of it straight away. lunging down to take it at the 2nd attempt Kiwomya rushing in to try to get to it colliding with her, no appeals the game continues.

Sophia Gillingham

Lively late on Needham Market getting players on the ball into the right, Boggis with Ferris the cross blocked by Swanton, then Howe behind for a corner. A vicious delivery in with pace at the near post flies pasty everyone however cleared far side. Pugh driving at the defence on for Porch pulling right wins her side a corner. Needham Market getting plenty up into the box the delivery from the right curled in cut out by Ager at the near post. Ferris back into the action with Marsh off the field. Into the final 10 minutes.

Woodbridge captain, Alice Ager

Pugh getting away on the right for the visitors pulling her cross back into the penalty spot, Jacobs there to clear for Woodbridge. Bruce clearing one end Woodbridge look for the counter up to Lindon left on with Beaumont, turning inside, Dyson with the well timed tackle to halt the attack. Stopher coming on for Woodbridge late in the game with Ager off the field. Green linking up with Jamieson up top as they look to turn the defence, the ball rolled out to Kiwomya breaking on the right, Smith closing her down for Needham Market. The visitors working the ball on getting a corner on the right with 3 minutes of regular time left on the clock.

GOAL! Plenty up for Needham Market the box packed as the corner is fizzed in low to the near post blocked the rebound coming back to the corner taker, on the edge of the box to angle a ball back in across the six yard box to the far post, Ferris getting her head on the end of it to send the ball in past the inside of the left post to score the equalising goal 1-1.

Lexie Ferris with the header at the far post to score the equaliser for Needham Market

A blow for Woodbridge late in the game having work so hard in defence, Needham Market getting players on well, risking gaps at the back, Hadley up to Jamieson, evades her slightly as Gillingham snatches it away caught late by the striker, but no complaints just picks herself up getting on with it as the game has been pretty much from the start. The visitors making for a nervous finish as they win another corner on the right players piling into the box everyone bar Jamieson back to defend for Woodbridge what comes next is best described as a melee initially cut out at the near post the ball fizzed back into the six yard box, multiple blocks and feet lashing out to try and poke it home but Needham Market can find no way through, as the ball is scrambled away and the two sides have to settle for a share of the points.

Full time Woodbridge Town Ladies 1-1 Needham Market Women Development

An intense contest with both sides into each other throughout the 90 minutes, the windy conditions making it difficult for both sides, play scrappy at times as it became congested in the middle, Woodbridge making changes at half-time getting players on in attack better having defended resolutely throughout the 1st half, taking the lead 20 minutes into the 2nd period. Needham Market unlucky not to be leading themselves with good opportunities in the 1st period rang the changes themselves pushing players on late in the game became a little disjointed but got the bodies into the box and found the right ball to get someone in the clear to score the equaliser. Would have felt hard done by had they not done so, set up as nervy final few moments Woodbridge back to defend in numbers to ensure they didn’t lose. Needham Market stay 2nd, with AFC Kesgrave Ladies 3rd and Stowupland Falcons Women winning to leap above Woodbridge into 4th, looks to be shaping up to be an intense battle for what is most likely runners-up spot barring a complete collapse by Sudbury.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match and this one is certainly not an easy one strong contenders on both sides. Chances were limited with defenders on top for a good portion of the game, firstly for Needham Market, Maddi Steward was strong positioned well reading the game ahead of her and getting across to deal with threats, used the ball well coming forwards too. Sophia Gillingham too putting in a number of strong tackles. In midfield Izzy Haste with some useful balls forwards looking to unlock the Woodbridge defence, Lexie Ferris providing a good outlet on the left coming back on to score the crucial equaliser. For Woodbridge, Rhianna Kiwomya again provided a good outlet on the wing with some useful runs into the box to fire Woodbridge into the lead. Stacey Hadley covered the ground making some good tackles. The defence worked hard as a unit pushing up keeping things tight and hard to shake of, Lauren Jacobs with some important interceptions, Caitlin Howe was busy on the right of defence scrapped all game to get possession of the ball, edged out by her captain, Alice Ager who again defended well at close quarter getting out to close the ball down and blocking a number of crosses.

Has been a while since I last visited Woodbridge but good to be back, albeit for the wind. A lively contest from the Suffolk Women’s Premiership, Woodbridge have a busy few weeks coming up as the battle at the top end of the league intensifies, and a League Cup final to look forwards too. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Royston Town Women v Atletico London Women

Sunday 8th March

ERWFL Premier Division

Good to get back into it after a month away from the game last weekend, off to Hertfordshire this Sunday to catch some action from the ERWFL Premier Division, with 2nd placed, Royston Town Women hosting 3rd placed Atletico London Women.

The 12 strong ERWFL Premier Division representing tier 5 football in the East of England, with the title winners earning promotion to the FAWNL (Women’s National League). Stevenage FC Women on a mission to achieve that this season unbeaten winning 12 of their 14 matches to date to sit comfortably at the top of the table. Have enjoyed a good rivalry with Hertfordshire compatriots, Royston Town Women in recent season’s who themselves look strong sitting in 2nd spot for much of the campaign, making a late charge up the table are Atletico London Women up to 3rd as they look to rebuild under a new name after being relegated from the FAWNL last season under their former guise, London Seaward FC. The ERWFL Premier Division always a strong and competitive league featuring many talented players and squads.

Games in hand for Royston over the sides looking to chase them down for runners-up spot, the most likely outcome baring a complete disaster for Stevenage this late in the season. Royston themselves recruiting well growing a squad over the past few season’s to contest at the top end of the Premier Division had a memorable run in this season’s FA Women’s Cup, and have won 6 straight games in the league itself. The gloss taken off the campaign somewhat over the past two weekends as exited both the County Cup and League Cup at the semi-final stage losing 1-0 to Stevenage in the county competition, followed by a poor first half showing in the league Cup which saw another Hertfordshire side, Harpenden Town Women race into a 3-0 lead and hold on to win the game 3-2. Emma Slater always amongst the goals for Royston has 15 to her name so far this season, not the leading scorer though as Laura Mills is just ahead of her with 16. Jordanne Sillitoe also closing in on double figures for the season.

Atletico London Women begin life in the ERWFL Premier Division renamed from the London Seaward FC side relegated from the FAWNL side who themselves were originally, Leyton Orient WFC who reached promotion to the 4th tier in 2018. The men’s club wanting to take Leyton Orient in a different direction, that women’s side became London Seaward FC, a rarity now in that it is an independent women’s football club. A bright light in the game their young manger Dan McKimm left the club to join London Bees a good portion of his squad going with him, London Seaward needing to rebuild their squad somewhat struggling for points last season ended up being relegated.

Thus a new beginnings of sorts under a new name Atletico London Women, placed into the ERWFL, have grown strongly as a club over the course of the season, a slow start losing 4 of their opening 5 league matches have pushed on winning 9 of their last 11 games, coming into today’s game with 6 straight league wins. Their attack headed up by Ammarah Ali and Brooke Haylock who have scored 46 goals between them, with Ali on 20 and Haylock finding the back of the net for 26 goals, up to 3rd in the table will be looking to finish as high as they can and take that into next season.

Royston Town FC’s, Garden Walk Stadium the venue for today’s match, the sloping grass pitch offering situated in a residential area surrounded by housing, has a cosy, community feel to it, the women’s side well supported within the set-up, the large clubhouse with bar open along with a food van and coffee truck available. A covered seated stand opposite the dugouts with various smaller stands dotted about the ground. Cloud cover prominent over the region today a little dull, albeit mild, and still with no rain in the forecast.

Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Amy Reed, Amy Georgiou, Amy Houghton (C), Chloe Gunn, Hannah Bodily, Georgie Giddings, Kate Edwards, Laura Mills, Emma Slater & Bella Simmons. Subs – Erin Davies, Kiaya Payne, Jodie Donley, Dilly Hazlehurst & Jordanne Sillitoe.

Royston Town Women

Atletico London Women starting XI – Nina Muller, Juliet Thomas, Jada McGibbon, Joanna Butler-Williams, Nicole Farmer (C), Amber Provan, Keira Stewart, Jordan Feldman, Julia Casinha, Ammarah Ali, & Brooke Haylock. Subs – Sindi Kanto, Lily Aungier, Poppy Hartwell, & Ornela Brahaj.

Atletico London Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Nicole Farmer of Atletico London and Amy Houghton of Royston with today’s match officials

Change of ends at the start with Atletico London choosing to attack up the slope in the 1st half, Royston with the kick-off wearing white coloured shirts and socks with black shorts, Atletico London lined up opposite wearing an all blue kit with orange numbers on the back of their shirts. The ball lifted out to the right side by the hosts. Atletico London quick to get after the ball, Ammarah Ali on the wing getting it into her feet and driving on up the left firing a diagonal ball in towards the top of the area, the ball turned away to the right, Julia Casinha onto it racing forwards on the right for the visitors squaring the ball back into the top of the box, Chloe Gunn stretching out a leg to try and cut the cross out slices off her favourably back towards the keeper, for Millie Carter to scoop up into her gloves.

Both sides looking to make a fast start getting after each other in possession, Kate Edwards bringing the ball on through the middle for Royston pushing for the box, Joanna Butler-Williams stepping out of the back line to close her down with the blocking tackle, the loose ball fed out to Emma Slater looking to pull clear on the right flank, the flag going up against her for offside. Royston press well getting after the ball high, Hannah Bodily out to Slater on the right has full back Amy Reed bombing past her on the overlap rolls the ball into her path on the move Reed strikes the cross the ball screwing up high into the air, dropping down off the crossbar back into play cleared by the Atletico London defence.

Carter’s kick out from the back falls straight to Ali as she drifts in from the left, 30 plus yards out she takes on the immediate strike, doesn’t get a power behind it to trouble Carter back in her six yard box. Royston captain, Amy Houghton plays a flighted long pass on for Slater making a run into the right channel, Jada McGibbon tracking back with her the full back getting the challenge in to prod the ball away from the attacker. Bella Simmons first to the loose ball on the angle 25 yards out latches onto the strike, arrowing in on target but straight at Atletico London goalkeeper, Nina Muller.

The hosts applying good pressure at the start looking to get on the front foot early, Georgie Giddings and Bodily snapping in to win the ball in the middle, Kate Edwards looking to make runs into the channels to support the attack, the ball clipped into Slater out on the right she hooks the ball back into the box, Butler-Williams heading it clear for the visitors. Pushing players up around the 18 yard box, Royston shift the ball in central, Bodily striking it 20 yards out her effort charged down, Atletico London look to mount a rapid counter, Amber Provan on for Casinha right side her forwards pass too strong for striker, Brooke Haylock.

Amber Provan

Both sides getting stuck into each other, competitive free-kicks given away the latest to Royston inside the Atletico London half, lifted on up towards the top of the area the ball defended by captain, Nicole Farmer heading it away to the left for a throw-in.

Atletico London captain, Nicole Farmer

GOAL! Royston capitalising on their bright start regain the ball on half way the pass fed forwards into, Edwards she plays it into Bodily central 30 yards out, controls and puts her foot through the ball catching it sweetly to whip the ball in on target looping up over the keeper, and under the crossbar to open the scoring 1-0.

Hannah Bodily about to strike the ball to fire Royston into the lead

Royston with the early lead inside the opening 8 minutes, getting their midfielders on well to join the attack. The hosts keeping up their pressing game, Laura Mills taking the ball on from Giddings looking to thread it through the defence with Slater curling her run to get in behind, Butler-Williams with a crucial interception for Atletico London. Slater clipped as she looks to get on with the ball out wide a free-kick to Royston 30 yards out, a dangerous ball clipped into the far post players running in, the Atletico London defence hooking it clear.

Atletico London win the ball in midfield, Keira Stewart into Provan she feeds the ball out to Ali on the left flank, has, Haylock ahead of her the ball played into her, looks to get inside, Reed, the full back getting back at her with the tackle to deny the cross, Royston get the ball moving quickly up the pitch lifted into the left channel for Mills bursting into space, Muller comes racing out of her box in an attempt to get the ball, Mills just getting a toe to it to knock it on beyond her into the area the ball running on looking to go wide of the far post as Mills attempts to get to it, a recovering defender getting to it first to clear for Atletico London.

Laura Mills and Joanna Butler-Williams battling for the ball

Royston remain lively Slater causing problems out on the right a corner won. Annie Georgiou curling the ball long across the six yard box to the far post the ball headed down towards goal blocked on the line by Atletico London’s, Juliet Thomas. Atletico London competitive in the middle, Provan strong shielding the ball linking up with Jordan Feldman the ball played on for Haylock in attack, cut out by Houghton.

Royston captain, Amy Houghton

GOAL! Royston get the ball on quickly, Slater providing the outlet on the left racing onto the ball, knocking it on into the area right of goal exposing the Atletico London defence, McGibbon trying to get back on her as the angle closes down, but Slater puts her laces through the ball before the blocking tackle comes in the shot rising with power up over the keeper into the far side of the goal to double the hosts lead 2-0.

Emma Slater firing Royston into a 2 goal lead.

Royston racing into a 2 goal lead inside the opening 12 minutes, showed attacking intent from the off and have taken full advantage. Bodily out to Reed on the right plays the ball on for Slater, McGibbon tracking her run getting in the tackle to turn the ball behind for a corner kick. The delivery curled into the six yard box, Simmons jumps well but can’t quite get her head on it central, drops into the mix at the far post a snap shot blasted in, Atletico London with the bodies back inside the six yard box to block it.

Atletico London get on the counter attack, the ball on for Provan carries it left before playing it on for Ali who in turn looks for Haylock in attack, Houghton steeping in to cut the pass out for the hosts. Ali seeing the ball into her feet off Provan, has McGibbon looking to go past her on the overlap the ball played on, the full backs cross snubbed out by Houghton.

Muller out to get hold of the ball quickly inside her box as Slater charges down Butler-Williams in possession the ball deflected into the box. Simmons controlling the ball for Royston central on for Edwards making a run left of the D, stabbed on her effort blocked by Farmer the ball rebounding out to the right, Slater looking to take it on, dispossessed complaining her shirt was tugged, doesn’t get the decision.

Haylock pulling away into the left wing taking the ball on from Ali sends a low cross in towards the near post, Carter going to ground to block it, turns it behind for the visitors first corner of the contest. Taken short on the left the cross angled in towards the top of the area dealt with by Mills for Royston, falls to Stewart 30 yards out, takes on the shot her looping strike safely into the keepers mid-riff caught.

Stewart linking up with Casinha as the winger plays the ball inside to her from the right driving on with the ball, Bodily closes her down for Royston the hosts counter the ball launched into the right channel Slater digging out the early cross with the Atletico London defence tracking back the ball looping into the D, over Farmer, falls to Simmons beyond her strike blocked by Thomas, deflected behind for a corner kick. Taken short from the right the cross lifted into the box cleared out of the area, Mills running onto the ball 25 yards out right of the goal to strike it on the volley blasts the ball wide.

Emma Slater

GOAL! Haylock has had to be patient operating up top on her own looking for the right back she gets it as the ball is fizzed on to her from the right running in behind the Royston defence central, draws Carter out of her goal to try and close her down, takes the ball past her out to the left and cuts it back in across goal to score, 2-1.

Brooke Haylock gets clear to pull a goal back for Atletico London

A goal back for the visiting side, 20 minutes into the first half, it is a competitive contest between two strong sides, Royston getting players on well to support their attack, Atletico London more patient not committing as many forwards the ball hotly fought over moved around quickly. Slater a ready outlet on the left, Edwards breaking from midfield to join the attack moving into the right channel closed down by Butler-Williams.

Royston midfielder, Kate Edwards

Gunn picking up a yellow card for the hosts as she brings down Haylock as the attacker looks to wriggle clear with the ball in midfield. From inside the Royston half, left of the circle Ali sends a long ball in towards the far post, Carter calling for it, a touch from an Atletico London player takes it behind off the keeper for a corner kick. Swung in over everyone at a congested near post, retrieved beyond the far post the ball played back out of the area towards McGibbon in a central position, pulls her shot wide of the left post from 25 yards out.

Georgiou attacking out on the left for the hosts angling a ball into the area with Slater racing on, Butler-Williams throwing out a leg to try and intercept the ball skips up beyond her into the six yard box, Muller out quickly to grab hold of the ball. Edwards sending the ball on for Slater on the right, lifts the ball into the area, Mills central top of the six yard box chests it down into the ground, Butler-Williams alert again stabbing a foot out to deflect the ball away from her, Muller down quickly to smother the loose ball inside her six yard box even as Mills attempts to slide in on it.

Into the final 15 minutes of the first half continues to be played at a fast pace, both teams snapping after the ball in the middle, Provan strong in possession carrying it out to the left for Ali who sends it up the line for Haycock, her cross claimed by Carter. Georgiou linking up with Mills on the left wing as Royston build an attack exchanging passes Mills take the ball on down the line scooping a cross up into the near post, Simmons gets up well to attack it but can’t get enough on her header to direct the ball on towards goal, behind for a goal-kick.

Bodily for Royston sending the ball on for Slater coming inside from the right, looks to play a one two with Edwards making a central run, get into the box, behind Butler-Williams the central defender, reading it sticking out a boot to get her toe on the ball to halt the attack. Slater steals in on McGibbon to take the ball off her in behind on the right before lifting a high cross into the six yard box, Miller under it see’s it all the way. Royston continue to get players on from midfield well, Edwards in particular pulling wide on the left taking the ball off Georgiou, players surging into the box, Mills hanging back free on the penalty spot Edwards crosses sending the ball in along the top of the six yard box, Butler-Williams onto it winning it ahead of Slater.

Atletico London mount an attack through the middle, Feldman on for Provan coming left up to Ali, has Haylock in support rolling the ball into her feet she takes on the strike from the angle 25 yards out the ball curling straight into the keepers gloves.

GOAL! Closing in on the last five minutes of the first half Royston find Slater’s feet out right, as Reed surges past her on the overlap calling for the ball gets it and on the run goes to hit the early cross, swerving in high on goal turns into a dangerous ball as back peddling Muller throws her arms up to try and turn it wide but doesn’t get enough on the ball as it evades her gasp and goes beyond into the back of the net 3-1.

Amy Reed’s looping cross fumbled by the keeper to see Royston go into a 3-1 lead.

Royston with their tails up late in the first half going into a 3-1 lead, press the ball high Slater nipping in to win it off the defence putting it on into the right wing as Edwards races into space, puts her foot through the ball her cross angling in high over the crossbar. Royston pressing on Slater with a shot from range 25 yards out to the left of goal, Muller down sharply to save push the ball wide of her far post for a corner kick.

Georgiou swinging in an inviting ball from the right, Simmons up well nodding it down into the six yard box stabbed away Giddings on the penalty spot latching onto the shot blasts the ball into the mix, blocked taking a wicked deflection out behind for a corner on the left. The delivery in across the crowded six yard box falls to Slater at the far post but the referee has spotted a foul and blows up for the free-kick to Atletico London. Ali playing the ball on for McGibbon making a run ahead of her on the left her cross, cut out by Houghton behind for the corner kick the last action of the first half as the delivery into the area is claimed by Carter.

Half-time Royston Town Women 3-1 Atletico London Women

Royston heading into the changing rooms at half-time leading 3-1. Looked determined to make a fast start to the game get on the front foot early and by doing so created numerous chances, taking an early lead which quickly became 2. Got players forwards well from midfield to support the attack. A competitive tussle as you’d expect from the sides 2nd and 3rd in the league. Atletico London letting Royston come on soaking up alot, winning fair share of balls at the back have looked to keep it tight in the middle with Haylock up top on her own not getting the close support her opportunities in front of goal limited but broke clear well to pull it back to 2-1. Royston adding a 3rd late in the half, can’t help feel the visitors have been a little reserved in attack, maybe saving their energy for the 2nd half when they will be attacking down the slope, 3-1 down though they have work to do to get back into it and Royston will feel confident they can add to their tally.

No changes for Royston at the break, Poppy Hartwell on for the visitors replacing Stewart as Atletico London get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope, the ball rolled back to defence hit long up towards the Royston defence with players pushing forwards, cleared by Gunn, the ball given away knocked back on to the left side of the area, Haycock having strayed offside, leaves it as Ali looks to take it on pushed wide the ball forced out for a throw.

Atletico London’s Ammarah Ali looking to get forwards

GOAL! Atletico London out of the blocks quickly at the start of the 2nd half getting players up the pitch the ball thrown in from the left fired into the area behind Haycock central, runs on to Casinha inside the box to the top right, controls the ball into her feet and turns to burst down to the by-line before flashing a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Haylock racing in at the far post to get on the end of it send the ball over the line 3-2.

Brooke Haylock turning the ball it at close range to score her 2nd of the game

Atletico London right back into the match within two minutes of the restart, Royston look for an immediate response, Simmons driving up the left with the ball plays it inside to Edwards who helps it on to Bodily central 25 yards out she helps it on out to the right with Slater surging forwards, Ali tracking back to help the defence, their to prevent the cross. The game pretty much continuing at the same tempo as the first half, a competitive battle in the middle, Giddings playing the ball up to Slater on the right, she cross cleared by Butler-Williams out for a throw-in.

Bella Simmons

From there Mills forces a corner on the right. Lifted in high to the near post, Simmons leaping up to meet it with her head knocks it wide of the near post. Bodily controlling the ball sends it up the right flank for Slater her early cross turned behind for a corner kick. Georgiou putting another ball into the near post, turned behind for a 2nd corner, this delivery headed clear by Butler-Williams.

Atletico London counter the ball fired on for Ali driving on up the left has Haylock up ahead of her rolls the ball on the attacker striking to cross on the run, turned behind off the defence for a corner kick. Royston closing down the ball as Atletico London attempt to play a short corner routine, Gunn finding Reed as she presses on into space on the right linking up with Slater, McGibbon gets the tackle in.

Chloe Gunn

Royston make their first change of the game with Edwards coming off, replaced by Jordanne Sillitoe, the attacker immediately fouled giving Royston a free-kick in the middle left of the circle, Houghton to play the set-piece in long to the far post, Muller starts to come for it as players race in to attack the ball, the flag up however stopping the advance. Thomas on the ball left side for Atletico London has Haylock making a run into the wing brings the ball into her feet turning inside to lift a teasing cross in towards the far post, Royston can see it out for a goal-kick.

Atletico London getting players on more in the 2nd period to try and link up with Haycock, McGibbon up with Ali on the left inside 25 yards out pulls the trigger, a tame effort through to the keeper. Battles all over the pitch, Georgiou and Casinha fighting for the ball the former fouled a free-kick won in a similar position to the earlier one again fired up towards the top of the area, defended by Butler-Williams.

Joanna Butler-Williams

Haylock looking to run onto the ball as it is played on towards the box, right of the D, her run checked by Gunn the visitors appealing for the foul but don’t get the decision. A little tense out there Atletico London winning the ball in the middle Hartwell on for Provan, attempts to feed it on for Haylock up top, Houghton intercepting. Georgiou tackling Casinha comes on with the ball left played forwards into Sillitoe who is fouled by Thomas. A pause in play as Farmer needs treatment after taking a blow to the face as Simmons latches onto the ball outside the area.

Julia Casinha

A chance for both sides to have a breather has been non stop action with both keen to get on with it, the game midway through the 2nd period, still on a knife edge. The game resumes with Farmer off the pitch waiting to be called back on, Royston send the ball on for Slater up the right wing, knocks it inside to try and get onto it inside the box, appears to be shoved over and is furious when the referee doesn’t award the penalty.

Jordan Feldman

Farmer back on, as Royston make another change sending on Erin Davies in place of Bodily in midfield. Haylock bundled over as she looks to turn centrally, as Gunn and Georgiou both move in to close her down, Gunn on thin ice already gets a final warning from the referee. The free-kick for Atletico London right of the centre circle, lifted up towards the top of the area, Houghton getting her head on it for the hosts. The game end to end at times as both sides look to find an opening.

Provan covering the ground in midfield to get after the ball, on for Ali left, closed down by Reed. Royston come left with Giddings taking the ball on, fires in a dangerous cross into the six yard box players racing in, the flag going up, a few nerves out there free-kicks given away, Thomas going into the book for a foul on Giddings. Giddings taking the ball on passing into Simmons on the left, tacked by Farmer. Butler-Williams getting her head on the ball to clear inside the D as Simmons attempts to hook the ball over her for Slater running in beyond her.

Georgie Giddings

Farmer coming off for Atletico London following her earlier knock, replaced by Ornela Brahaj. Royston making a change at the back too bringing on Jodie Donley for Gunn on a yellow card. The game all set for a nervy finish. Davies up to Simmons tries to pick out Sillitoe central, Hartwell in to challenge for Atletico London. The game into the final 5 minutes.

Poppy Hartwell

GOAL! The visitors with the ball on the left Ali releasing McGibbon into space on the left allowed to travel Haycock making a run to get into the six yard box the cross cut back in towards her with pace, doesn’t quite get hold of it as the defender tracking back with her falling gets a little of the ball, but Haylock gets a 2nd bite at the ball and lashes it past the keeper before she can react to equalise for Atletico London and complete her hat-trick 3-3.

A hat-trick for Atletico London’s Brooke Haylock

The visitors coming back from 3-1 down at the break to level the scores late in the game, a blow for Royston having worked so hard, the clock ticking down will both settle for the point or try and find what would surely be the winning goal. Royston press with the ball Mills taking it on lifting a diagonal ball to the right looking for Slater, Butler-Williams defending for Atletico London.

Haylock pulling away to the right with the ball at her feet shooting on the angle from outside the area her attempt into the side netting. Dilly Haslehurst coming on for Royston replacing Simmons, Lily Aungier on too for Atletico London in place of Provan. 3 minutes left in the contest could yet go either way, the game stretched now with tired legs all over the pitch, Mills taking the ball on up the left firing a cross into the area, Sillitoe stabbing the ball goal wards straight at the keeper.

Royston with a throw up on the left with seconds left to play Slater bringing the ball infield playing it back to Mills positioned top of the D, takes on the shot a powerful low drive, Muller with a superb save diving down to her right to get behind the ball, and recovers quickly too make the blocking save as Slater from the left races in to blast the loose ball. The last action of the game as Muller’s double save ensures a point for her side.

Atletico London goalkeeper, Nina Muller with a superb double save in the closing seconds

Full time Royston Town Women 3-3 Atletico London Women

A great game for the neutral, promised to be an entertaining contest between the sides 2nd and 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division. Royston looking for a positive first half after last weekends game, started well on the front foot early taking an early lead and quickly doubling the advantage. getting players on well from the midfield to join the attack. Competitive in the middle Atletico London playing striker Haycock in to round the keeper to pull a goal back before Amy Reed’s cross was mis-handled to pull Royston 3-1 up at the break. Atletico London came out flying at the start of the 2nd half pulling it back to 3-2 straight away. The game remained lively throughout both side fighting for possession creating chances both seeing decisions waved away, Jada McGibbon put away on the left late in the game teeing up Haycock to score her hat-trick and equalise for the visitors. A superb double save from Miller in the dying moments ensuring the points were shared.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Picking out today’s Women’s Football East – player of the Match is by no means an easy decision, several contenders on both sides. Both teams put in a shift in a competitive tussle that never let up in it’s intensity. The midfield battle shaping the game to a degree, for Royston, Hannah Bodily and Georgie Giddings get stuck in to win the ball and cover the ground helping both the defence and joining the attack. Kate Edwards too made some great forward runs getting into some great positions. Bella Simmons showed good movement to find space and keep the game flowing. Emma Slater a threat on the right of attack and a ready outlet for the ball good finishers from both her and Bodily. For Atletico London, Joanna Butler-Williams was strong at the back reading the game, and dealing with most balls launched into the box. In midfielder Amber Provan was strong on the ball, shielded it well and covered the ground getting the ball into the wide players. The award goes to the hat-trick scorer Brooke Haylock had to stay patient up top not getting the support around her in the first half but making some great runs through the middle and out into the channels, pulling off the defence strong on the ball closing in on 30 goals for the season.

Promised to be a cracker on paper and certainly delivered as 2nd met 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division, highly entertaining with a high tempo the ball rarely still as both sides worked hard to close it down. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the teams today, an enjoyable trip to Hertfordshire.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Real Bedford Women Reserves

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL League Plate semi-final

Back at it at last, wasn’t planning in taking a month off, but that’s how it went, fell ill with some mystery bug that has really laid me low left me, took a while to get over but am right again now and ready to go again. Watched a match last weekend without the camera and notepad so keen to get back at it now march is here and we move into the business end of the season with league titles and cup final spots to challenge for. Off to a semi-final match this afternoon as Wroxham Women take on Real Bedford Women reserves looking to reach the ERWFL League Plate final.

The sides losing in the early rounds of the ERWFL League Cup going on to compete for the League Plate. A blow for Wroxham getting knocked out of the League Cup this season having reached the League Cup final in both 2022 & 2024. Have nevertheless responded well to push on in the League Cup getting to the semi-finals and potentially one game away from another final and a double final appearance having reached the final of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup. Real Bedford Women Reserves too have the potential to make it a cup final double having reached the final of the Bedfordshire Women’s Senior Cup for the first time where they will take on the Real Bedford Women’s 1st team.

Captain, Tigi Robson’s long range strike fumbled by the keeper to see Wroxham beat UEA FC Women by a single goal in the 2nd half to book their spot in Norfolk Women’s Cup Final last weekend aiming to make it a cup final double appearance this Sunday. The ERWFL Premier Division side currently 7th in the table but with games in hand on the sides above them have a busy run in till the end of the season. With that in mind manager Joe Simpson has bolstered the squad by bringing in a few new faces, defender. Elise Wade joins from Needham Market. Rebecca Stephenson comes to Wroxham having had spells at both Cambridge City Women and Needham Market and most recently has gained valuable experience playing in the FAWNL with Cambridge United Women. Also joining on a dual registration from Norwich City Women is attacking midfielder Lauren Hailes.

A hat-trick from Hannah Fuller, plus goals from Anais Winney, Rebecca Stephenson and Kathryn Stanley seeing Wroxham beat, ERWFL Division One North side, Stevenage FC Women Development in the quarter finals of the League Plate to book their spot in the last 4. Fuller, Wroxham’s top scorer once again this season leading the way with 13 goals, while Maddie Green and Kathryn Stanley joining the club this season have 8 and 7 goals respectfully.

In any other season, Real Bedford Women Reserves would be challenging for the league title such has been their form, however with Histon Ladies continuing their 100% record at the top of the table, they are in a tight battle trying to clinch runners-up spot in the table currently 3rd neck and neck with Stevenage FC Women Development. Looking strong with one of the youngest squads in the league this just their 2nd season playing at this level. Real Bedford Women featuring 3 sides, the 1st team investing strongly in their squad reaching the 3rd tier of women’s football, The Reserves playing regional football while the Development squad has joined the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League this season. A 3 squads going strong, Real Bedford Women Reserves unbeaten in 9 matches.

Beating Biggleswade United Women 2-0 at home in their League Plate quarter final, Amelia Proctor and Ellie McGirl with the goals. Lauren Hawkins leading the goal scoring charts, netting 16 goals in her 18 appearances. Ellie McGirl has 8 goals to her name with Georgie Oliver on 6 so far this season.

Wroxham FC’s Ginger Pickle Arena (Trafford Park) unavailable due to the rain earlier in the week, Wroxham Women making the call early to move the semi-final tie to an all-weather pitch at Aylsham’s Sports Hub. Played their quarter final here too and with Sunday’s running out to get their fixtures in could ill afford another postponement, situated on the outskirts of Aylsham one a new housing development the sports facility offering an all weather pitch, limited viewing for spectators on one side, the 1st day of March hopefully bringing better weather a little overcast with a keen wind, rain wasn’t forecast but still it came, so too would the sun later on.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Tigi Robson (C), Ella Gambell, Poppy Loveland, Elise Wade, Lily Alexander, Anais Winney, Rebecca Stephenson, Holly Farrow, Maddie Green & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Yasmine Walford, Lauren Bullard, Katie Green, Katie Knights & Kathryn Stanley.

Wroxham Women

Real Bedford Women starting XI – Izabella Bruci, Carol Cripps, Connie Medri, Zara Labastide, Marli Frederick, Freya Stichbury (C), Ellie McGirl, Georgie Oliver, Madison Flowers Amelia Proctor & Lauren Hawkins. Subs – Phoebe Matthews & Destiny Pap.

Real Bedford Women Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Tigi Robson and Freya Stichbury with today’s referee, Davis Lewiss and his two assistants

Wroxham despite having a few out with injury including defender, Jordan Arnoup and winger Hayley Kindred still naming a strong substitutes bench. Elise Wade starting in defence making her debut. Real Bedford Women Reserves with just the two substitutes to call upon having lost a player due to illness before the game. Wroxham to take the kick-off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Bedford lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball fed out to the right, Ella Gambell playing in on up the line for Maddie Green to whip a cross into the box, defended by Bedford, comes back to Gambell right side who strikes a diagonal ball back into the area, Bedford seeing it safely behind for a corner kick.

The corner curled in towards the near post, Carol Cripps comes off the post to intercept and clear for Bedford the ball away for a throw out on the left. Wroxham looking to make a positive start the throw dropped into the feet of striker, Hannah Fuller, 20 yards out left of the D, turns to hit the ball her effort blocked by Marci Frederick, rebounds back off Fuller and runs behind for a goal-kick.

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller

The Premier Division side moving in to close the ball do preventing Bedford getting out of their half early doors, the ball being moved quickly, Lily Alexander on for Anais Winney in the middle out to Holly Farrow charging on down the left her cross cut out by Cripps. Wroxham’s captain Tigi Robson closing down the ball at the back sending it into Alexander central she plays it out too Ella Gambell bursting forwards on the right, the full back allowed to travel turns inside 20 yards out slicing her shot the ball flashing wide of the near post.

Wroxham full back, Ella Gambell

Bedford getting onto the ball centrally sending a good diagonal ball into the right wing for Madison Flowers to attack, Farrow tracking back helping out the defence out for a throw. Both sides showing plenty of energy flying into their tackles, Bedford captain, Freya Stichbury with a strong tackle on Gambell as the ball goes out for a throw. Georgie Oliver for Bedford seeing the ball into her feet and driving on through the middle, closed down is upended as the Wroxham defence clears the ball, the visitors appeals for a foul waved away.

Real Bedford’s, Georgie Oliver

Robson on the left sends the ball on down the line for Farrow to attack, Cripps moving in to close her down force her down the line forces the ball out for a throw, taken quickly Wroxham getting players into the box is helped on in towards the near post for Winney, the midfielder looking to bring it down and hit on the turn, Bedford’s. Zara Labastide in close to her getting a toe on the ball to take it away from her.

A miscued clearance at the back from Wroxham see’s the ball swerve up into the air and Bedford’s Flowers race onto it taking it forwards with pace, the home defence recovering quickly to squeeze her off the ball allowing goalkeeper, Bryony Williams to clear. Wroxham regain the ball in the middle, Winney into Fuller moving right looks to combines with Green up the line wanting the return ball played into her as she drives for the area, Labastide does well at the back for Bedford intercepting the pass. Oliver taking the ball right for Bedford looking to pick out Flowers ahead of her, Alexander cutting the ball out for Wroxham.

Williams with a loose ball out of her box, sees Bedford’s Lauren Hawkins run onto the ball looking to take it left into the area, Gambell, closing her down eases her off the ball. The game being played at a fast pace, both sides keen to close the ball down keep it moving, Wroxham build on the left Robson with a diagonal ball into the box for Fuller left of goal knocks it out to Farrow wide on the wing she returns it inside to Fuller who attempts to tee up Green positioned central top of the area, Proctor getting back on her in the nick of time to take the ball off her feet as she is about to line up a strike.

Maddie Green

Wade bringing the ball out of defence for Wroxham with space to run into as Bedford drop off sends it on up the right for Green, Connie Medri stretching out a leg getting hold of the ball for the visitors. Bedford with pace in their attack quick to break launching a counter attack on the right, McGirl on for Flowers, the cross taken early flung into the box, Williams throwing herself forwards getting a fist on the ball enough to take it away from Hawkins running in unmarked central.

Wroxham’s Elise Wade with Real Bedford’s, Lauren Hawkins

Gambell able to come on with the ball on the right offer support to Green on the right, the attacker winning Wroxham a corner kick. The delivery curled into the middle off the defence, goalkeeper, Bruci having Fuller for company shaking her off well to get out and claim the ball.

Some players vocal in not getting decisions, with the game continuing at a fast pace, Fuller getting a telling off from the referee. The hosts with a throw on the right inside the Bedford half, Loveland with a long throw in her arsenal, launched into the top of the area, Frederick heading it clear for Bedford. The wind bringing in the rain despite the forecast blowing at my back so at least I can keep the camera and notepad reasonably dry. Stephenson linking up with Winey through the middle turning to send the ball into Fuller up top, tries to turn on the ball closely marshalled by Labastide.

Alexander bringing he ball on for Wroxham moving left sending it out to Farrow on the wing plays it inside to Fuller, 20 yards out left of the D, is fouled as she goes to strike the ball, the hosts awarded the free-kick. Gambell over the set-piece goes for goal her low shot driven in wide of the left upright.

Oliver sending the ball into Flowers on the right for Bedford cuts it back inside for Stichbury running in across the top of the D, Wade moving out to close her down. Wroxham looking to make a rapid counter attack, Stephenson helping the ball on through the middle her target Green, a vital interception from Labastide for Bedford. The rain falling heavier now. Gambell charging on with the ball into space right side feeding it on for Green up the line Labastide going with her in ahead of her edge of the box to divert the ball back to her keeper, Bruci clearance however played straight back to Green, her 1st touch heavy, Labastide lunges it with a well-timed tackle to get her foot on the ball send it behind for the corner kick.

Rebecca Stephenson with real Bedford captain, Freya Stichbury

Swung into the area from the right the keeper punching the ball up and away for a throw out on the left, Wroxham take it quickly looking to keep the pressure on, players up and around the box, Gambell upended inside the D, frustrated as no foul is awarded. Cripps clearing the ball away to the left. Remains a busy game, Bedford the busier in defence but Wroxham for all their possession not carving out any clear cut chances. The rain slowing even if the game isn’t, Gambell’s turn to get a warning from the referee to halt the back chat as she is involved in a good completive tussle with Hawkins.

Loveland at the back playing the ball on for Robson travelling on the left plays it on for Fuller out on the left wing wide of the area, Frederick at her back throwing out a leg to take the ball away from her. Winney snatching hold of the ball for Wroxham 20 yards out left of the D, plays it on in central to Green inside the D. her low shot safely claimed by Bruci.

Wroxham midfielder, Anais Winney

McGirl tacking back to help defend for Bedford on Gambell as the full back looks to get on join the Wroxham attack. Winney with Stephenson in the middle the ball rolled back to Alexander to lay forwards into the left wing for Farrow, Cripps in quickly to prevent the cross. Bedford soaking up a fair bit of pressure at the back, always ready to launch a counter, up on the right forcing Williams to run out to the corner of her area to defend picks up a knock in the process.

Cripps coming into the middle to win the ball back for Bedford playing the ball on for Oliver bursts forwards playing it on for 9 up top, turns, her shirt pulled by Loveland the visitors awarded the free-kick 25 yards out. Proctor over it to the left of the D, pass the wall curled in low on goal, Williams getting down sharply to save block the ball turn it away behind to the right for a corner kick. Bedford yet to make the most of their corners.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

Labastide getting in ahead of Fuller to cut the ball out outside her box as Stephenson plays it on through the middle. Wroxham able to get players on to support the attack as Bedford drop back, not much room to get in behind the ball from the left comes inside to Stephenson, 30 yards out lines up the strike angled in low and fast at the near post, Bruci had started to move the opposite way but adjusts her body fantastically twisting enough to throw a glove out to her right to block the ball and turn it behind for a corner kick. Wroxham dropping another corner into the six yard box, Gambell rising highest to nod the ball down towards goal, somehow, Bruci gets her hands on the ball to prevent it dropping over the line.

Real Bedford goalkeeper, Izabella Bruci

Bedford quickly launch a counter from the corner as Bruci releases the ball forwards, Wroxham short at the back the ball into Oliver right side looks to take it on, Wade moving in quickly to close her down sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. Into the closing moments of the 1st half Wroxham with one last attack pushing bodies on, Robson with Farrow left side inside to Stephenson, is brought down, no foul awarded as she throws her arms up in appeal 25 yards out, however a split second later, Alexander is similarly upended and gets the decision. Stephenson over the free-kick takes on the shot, strikes the ball over the bar.

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-0 Real Bedford Women Reserves

The sides heading back to the changing rooms goalless at the break, Bedford working hard in defence keeping it tight dropping deep at the back, conceding possession whilst limiting Wroxham’s chances inside the box, Wroxham positive throughout looking for the break through the final ball not quite there as both side play at a fast pace looking to close the ball down and run players off the ball. Chances limited although both keepers have been called into action will be interested to see if Bedford can keep it up 2nd half, extra-time and penalties if required.

The rain gone at the start of the 2nd half albeit the dark clouds remain, Wroxham making a change at the start of the 2nd half, Kathryn Stanley on on the left replacing Farrow, with Stephenson moving right as Green takes up an attacking position on the left as Bedford get the 2nd 45 underway. The ball out of play for a throw on the left, Loveland sending it long for Green to attack, Cripps moving in to close her down the ball out for another throw. A quieter start to the 2nd half as both sides work to close the other down. Hawkins moves in quickly to press, Wade at the back nearly succeeds in dispossessing the defender, stealing in behind however Wade recovers well to get back at her challenging to win the ball back.

Stichbury bringing the ball on for Bedford feeding it on for Oliver ahead of her central 25 yards out takes on the strike her effort taking a hefty nick off a blocking defender seeing the string taken out of it as it runs on safely through to the keeper. Wroxham’s Green and Stephenson look to link up on the left Green inside to Stephenson who plays it on down the wing for Green to attack, Labastide going with her looking to shield the ball out of play for the goal-kick gets a shove in the back for her efforts.

Stanley onto the ball central inside the Bedford half driving on with the ball at her feet pushes it on for Fuller up top Cripps sticking a leg out marking her to get the ball into Frederick to launch clear. Bedford continue to be hard to break down even as the game begins to open up more, Wroxham not finding the clinical final ball. Proctor coming together with Stephenson bringing her down hard as she looked to turn in the ball in the middle, picks up the 1st yellow card of the game.

Alexander finds Stephenson as she drifts in from the right, is tackled by Bedford’s Stichbury before she can pick out Green as she breaks away on the left. Lively Cripps getting the ball back for Bedford out on the left looking to send it on for Flowers bursting on up the wing, Robson cutting the ball out for the visitors. Wroxham preparing a double change just past the hour mark with Katie Knights and Katie Green coming on to replace Winney in midfield and Wade in defence.

Real Bedford’s Carol Cripps

Knights straight into the action giving away a free-kick against, Oliver. The flag going up for offside however as Bedford sweep the ball into the top of the area. Hawkins combining with Flowers for Bedford on the right side, Loveland in between doing well in defence for the hosts. The sun’s out, a very welcome appearance has been a dull old start to the year. Bedford making a change, Proctor coming off to be replaced by Phoebe Matthews. The visitors win the ball back centrally, McGirl out to Flowers right drives on her cross charged down by Loveland out for a throw.

Wroxham’s Katie Knights

The clock ticking down, moving into the final 20 minutes both sides looking a little tentative, Wroxham frustrated by Bedford can’t find that final pass, Katie Green defending a bouncing cross inside the box the ball cleared on up through the middle, Labastide in ahead of Fuller to see the ball back to her keeper. Wroxham winning a free-kick top of the circle the ball sent into the area dipping in front of the keeper, turned out back to the top of the area Knights appearing to be pulled down inside the D, the advantage played as the loose ball comes to Maddie Green left of the D her low shot drilled in across the keeper, Bruci down to save it.

Stanley picks up a yellow card for Wroxham after tripping Cripps. Bedford with a free-kick half-way to the left the ball sent long up into the area, brought down well by Hawkins but before she a put her foot through the ball, Katie Green nips in to clear the ball sending it out for a throw on the left. Loveland doing well in defence for Wroxham as Hawkins looks to shake her off break on in behind into the box.

Into the final 15 minutes of the game Wroxham build an attack, Gambell taking the ball on up the right wing as players push on through the middle, a cross flashed into the D, Frederick with the challenge on Fuller as Alexander is upended, a strike coming in from the left of the D narrowly wide of the left post, play however brought back for the foul on Alexander inside the D.

GOAL! Alexander picking herself up to take the free-kick central inside the D, strikes it low with pace to the diving keepers left can’t reach it as the ball cannons off the base of the post and back out across the six yard box to the right off goal, Stephenson first to react breaking forwards on the follow-up latching onto the ball to smash it back in across goal and into the back of the net to fire Wroxham into the lead 1-0.

Lily Alexander’s strike about to strike the base of the post and cannon back across goal for Rebecca Stephenson to score

Wroxham mob Stephenson as she fires them into the lead

Wroxham with the break through with 15 minutes left on the clock, keen to press for another goal as the game resumes pushing players on nearly catching Bruci on the ball at the back as she mis controls a back pass dragging it out across her six yard box, scrambling it away before Fuller can take advantage. Wroxham’s substitutes giving them the extra edge Winney coming back on as Fuller is rested. Labastide defending inside her area well as Stanley looks to run inside from the left.

Real Bedford defender, Zara Labastide

Stanley fouled out on the left giving Wroxham another set-piece, 25 yards out the shot drilled in takes a deflection of the wall and another defender before being stopped by Cripps inside the six yard box and cleared. Wroxham with their tails up finding an extra burst of energy after scoring Knights playing the ball up to Maddie Green in attack, Labastide looking to go with her as both wrestle for the ball top of the area, Green squirming inside Labastide to throw a leg up to prod the ball on towards goal, Bruci too close can save as the ball comes straight at her.

Oliver back to defend on Knights as she looks to take on the shot 20 yards out as Stanley picks her out travelling with the ball on the left. Wroxham looking in control now, Bedford tiring, Loveland with a long throw on the left into Stanley taking it inside 20 yards out left corner of the Bedford box sends it on for Knights central her strike screwed wide of the far post. Into stoppage time Labastide defending on Maddie Green left side as she looks to get onto the end of a pass from Knights.

Wroxham defender, Poppy Loveland

Gambell pressing on with the ball right side crossed low into Stephenson inside the area right of goal the keeper rushing out to try and close her down, strikes the ball past her but also wide beyond the far post. The clock ticking down Wroxham looking to keep the ball in the corner take no risks. Bedford frustrated can’t find a way out late on the Wroxham back line intercepting the ball as the hosts see out the game to win 1-0 to make it to two cup finals this season.

Full time Wroxham Women 1-0 Real Bedford Women Reserves

Wroxham breaking the stalemate in the 75th minute to score and book their place in this season’s ERWFL League Plate final. Real Bedford proving a tough side to break down working hard in defence, making it tough for Wroxham in the final 3rd. The game payed at a furious pace as both sides looked to get after the ball, rarely still. Wroxham’s substitute’s giving them an advantage 2nd half, bringing on fresh legs and with it crucial experience found the extra edge to break the dead lock. A fine effort from Rea Bedford just ran out of steam late in the game struggled to create chances of their own the goal knocking the stuffing out of them can nevertheless be proud of their effort.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, a tough one as is more often the case with several contenders. For Real Bedford, Zara Labastide with the pick of the defenders winning a number of crucial tackles and marshalling her side throughout. Carol Cripps too with a number of vital tackles get stuck in to win the ball back. Madison Flowers looked a threat whenever she got the ball into her feet and drove forwards. For Wroxham, Ella Gambell was competitive and got stuck in to win the ball bringing in forwards well looking to link up with the attack. Maddie green whether operating on the left or right made herself available for the pass throughout and created some good opportunities. Poppy Loveland with some good tackling hard to shake off the ball. Anais Winney with some good positional play in midfield got on well to support the attack adding an extra dimension going forwards, linking up well with Rebecca Stephenson who got into some good positions and scored the all important winning goal. The award though goes to Lily Alexander covered the ground, working well with the defence and using it well whenever she came forwards, bringing others into the game kept Wroxham on the front foot.

Good to be back at it after a month off, most unusual for me but sometimes that’s how it goes just needed the rest to recover, an exciting end to the season to be sure. An entertaining semi-final, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance today as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Monthly Archives: March 2026

Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Brundall Bolts Women

Sunday 29th March

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

Cup Final Special – Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup Final

Sunday 22nd March

Bedfordshire Women’s Junior Cup Final

Match Report – Woodbridge Town Ladies v Needham Market Women Development

Sunday 15th March

Suffolk Women’s Premiership

Match Report – Royston Town Women v Atletico London Women

Sunday 8th March

ERWFL Premier Division

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Real Bedford Women Reserves

Sunday 1st March

ERWFL League Plate semi-final