Monthly Archives: April 2026

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women v Harpenden Town Women

Sunday 12th April

Hertfordshire Women’s Senior Challenge Cup Final

Onto the 2nd part of this Sunday’s Hertfordshire FA Women’s County Cup finals double bill the main event the Senior Women’s Challenge Cup, at Harpenden Town Women into their 1st County Cup final taking on 5 times winners, Stevenage FC Women.

Hertfordshire FA splitting their county cup into two competitions in 2024 with the national and regional sides contesting the Senior Challenge Cup and the the sides from tier 7 the county league sides mostly competing for the new Trophy competition won by …. this morning. As explained previously in enhances both competitions gives the lower placed league sides a competitive competition to play in and for the most part reduces one sides games and eye-watering scores which serve no purpose plus frees up weekends which can clog up the early part of the season.

This afternoon’s prize

Stevenage FC Women bringing in ex-Arsenal Women and England international, Sian Lingham as head coach at the beginning of this season as the club sets it’s budget and sights on winning the ERWFL Premier Division title and returning to the FAWNL after a 4 year absence. That they have achieved and in some style unbeaten in 20 games played winning 18 of those to clinch the title with ease. That league form transcending to the cup competitions and a potential treble on the cards winning through to the finals of the County and League Cups.

Have brought in players with extensive experience playing at a higher level most notably new captain, Sarah Wiltshire most recently at FAWNL South East Division one side, Cambridge United WFC. Has been in red hot form in front of goal closing in on 50 goals for the season! 49 so far across all competitions. Whilst at the other end Stevenage have the meanest defence conceding just 11 goals. Amy Makewell the only other player into double figures with 11, with Gemma Croucher on 9. Stevenage dominant in the county cup in recent season’s winning it 5 times since 2015, including a run of successive final appearances from then up to 2023, today their 10th final aiming to lift the trophy for a 6th time.

Harpenden Town Women in comparison into their 1st ever County Cup final, formed back in 2022 have enjoyed a fast rise up the pyramid promoted to the ERWFL in their debut season. Into Division One North enjoyed close tussle for the title just missing out on promotion by a single point to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women the following year. Made up for it the following year by clinching the league title by 3 points over Histon Ladies to achieve promotion to tier 5. The ERWFL Premier Division a steep jump for most sides coming up Harpenden have held their own currently 9th with 2 games to play.

Have saved their best form for the cup competitions making it a cup double in fact as not only have they reached their first ever County Cup final but so to the League Cup final where again they will be playing champions, Stevenage on May the 10th at Bedford Town FC. Sophia Amanor the top scorer for Harpenden in their promotion winning season rattling in 34 goals. This time around despite the jump in level Amanor has once again been potent in attack once again firing in 34 across all competitions.

Road to the Final

The Women’s Senior Challenge Cup contested by the clubs playing regional football and above in Hertfordshire. 11 sides in total. A bye for Harpenden in the first round back in October. Stevenage away to Hitchin Belles Women recently promoted to the ERWFL, Got off to a flyer with Sarah Wiltshire rattling in the fastest ever hat-trick in the game inside 3 minutes! Ashleigh Goddard also finding the back of the net for 3 goals in the first half, Amy Gooderham netting twice with a goal each for Gemma Croucher, Amy Makewell and Eva Delaney plus an opposition own goal seeing Stevenage win 12-0.

Into the New Year and the quarter finals of the Challenge Cup, Stevenage drawn away from home to play fellow Premier Division side, St Albans City Women, goals from defender, Rebecca Edge and Wiltshire plus a brace from another new addition to the squad form Cambridge United WFC, Alysha Stojko-Down securing a 4-1 victory. Harpenden also away in the last 8 taking on ERWFL Division One North side, Colney Heath Ladies. Sophia Amanor smashing the ball into the back of the net for 4 goals, Belle Shannon and Ellie Deville also scoring in a comfortable 6-0 result.

Into the last 4, Stevenage at home taking on local rivals Royston Town Women back to back winners of the Challenge Cup, up at the top end of the Premier Division too in recent season’s, a single goal just before the hour enough to seal the win Amber Pearson on target to send Stevenage into another Challenge Cup Final. Harpenden at home facing Stevenage FC Women’s Development side, sitting 2nd in Division one North, Amanor again amongst the goals netting twice with Ella mercer and Belle Shannon also finding the back of the net to send Harpenden into their 1st Challenge Cup final.

The County Ground, Letchworth again the venue for this afternoon’s final. A familiar place for Stevenage serving as their home ground in recent season’s and having the home dressing room today. Off to the café to get some much needed food between finals the sun still bright but cloud are scattered about the likelihood of showers this afternoon increasing. A good crowd building spectators taking up position all around the ground.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Faye Hazelton, Lucy Webster, Hannah Savage, Rebecca Edge, Elly Wade, Harley Carr, Rosy Wodhams, Amber Pearson, Gemma Croucher, Amy Makewell & Sarah Wiltshire (C). Subs – Sophie Shults, Leonie Telford, Alysha Stojko-Down. Eva Delaney & Ashleigh Goddard.

Stevenage FC Women

Harpenden Town Women starting XI – Daisy Strouts, Kacey Warren, Rebecca Dowdall, Lucy Ford, Amana Oguntuga, Zoe Allen, Belle Shannon, Chloe Dinsey, Ella Mercer, Ellie Deville & Sophia Amanor. Subs – Neave Wilson, Leah Shellard, Isobel Hughes, Seryan Kabongo & Erin Shacklock.

Harpenden Town Women

If the scores should remain level after 90 minutes the game going straight into a penalty shootout.

Captains, Sarah Wiltshire and Rebecca Dowdall with today’s match officials lead by referee, Andrew Marsh

A switch of ends at the start of the game with Stevenage to kick-off the first half wearing white coloured shirts with red sleeves, red shorts with white trim and white socks. Harpenden lined up opposite wearing green and yellow vertical striped shirts, green shorts and socks. The ball played back into the defence Harpenden rush on looking to close the ball down, Sophia Amanor up with Ellie Deville right side siding a cross charged down the ball out for a throw in.

From the throw high on the right Harpenden look to cause problems working a cross into the near post Amanor closing goalkeeper Faye Hazelton down stretching to try and get to the ball as the keeper gets something on the ball to take it away from her, Amanor going down awkwardly looks to be in some discomfort a concern for Harpenden so early on the contest, a pause in play as she receives treatment inside the six yard box, up on her feet but hobbling gingerly looks to try and run it off as play resumes.

A physical battle shaping up Gemma Croucher with her arm already bandaged tangling with Harpenden’s Amana Oguntuga as she looks to get the ball under control on the right going to ground getting accidentally stood on, again a long pause as she is carefully accessed but indicates to the bench she will be okay to play on.

Stevenage’s Gemma Croucher

Lively Harpenden looking to get after the ball close Stevenage down, Croucher playing a diagonal ball on for captain, Sarah Wiltshire making a run to the right, Harpenden goalkeeper, Daisy Strouts alert out to the top of her area to clear the ball for a throw.

Harpenden’s Amana Oguntuga

Stevenage off the throw working a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Rosy Wodhams making a back stick run attempting to get it under control as it skips up on the by-line but can’t redirect it on target. Harpenden get the ball into Oguntuga right side plays it forwards to Deville the cross coming into the box from deep, claimed well by Hazelton.

Stevenage midfielder, Rosy Wodhams

GOAL! Stevenage get the ball moving forwards pushing players on as Amy Makewell links up with full back Hannah Savage on the left flank the ball fed into the box, cut out by defender, Rebecca Dowdall, Makewell latching onto the ball top of the area lashing a shot back in on goal, Strouts diving to her left pushing it out to the opposite side, chaos as Wiltshire gets hold of it firing the ball on the angle back across goal Croucher not quite able to get to it, Stevenage quick to get it back left side put back into the mix the cross back out to the right side, Amber Pearson getting her foot through the ball to blast it in at the near post to open the scoring 1-0.

Amber Pearson celebrating as she fires Stevenage into the lead

Stevenage into the lead inside the opening 11 minutes, an early blow for Harpenden, Ella Mercer pushed up latching onto a loose ball at the back form Edge to the right 35 yards out turns to shoot sending the ball wide of the near post. Croucher bringing the ball on coming inside from the left placing her pass on for Makewell as Stevenage surge forwards, Makewell sending it on for Wiltshire in the right channel plays it into the right for Pearson, Belle Shannon diving in to challenge for Harpenden.

Harpenden’s Belle Shannon

Both sides busy Harpenden working hard to get after Stevenage close the ball down get it into their attacking players, Mercer on for Deville central turns well on the ball driving forwards before attempting the through ball for Amanor looking to run off the defence, instead, Elly Wade steps up to intercept for Stevenage. Busy, play turned around Harpenden sending Deville away on the right flank making a run to try and get into the box, Savage getting her body in between her and the ball to turn it back to her keeper to kick clear.

Harpenden’s Ella Mercer

Harpenden striker, Sophia Amanor

Oguntuga putting the ball on up the right for Deville squares her cross into the middle, Amanor inside the D seeing her attempt charged down by Wade, the rebound also blocked as it’s smashed in from 25 yards out. A competitive game Harpenden causing Stevenage a few issues as they look to try an impose their presence on their opponents, Oguntuga away with the ball on the right bursting forwards her cross flashed into the near post Wade tracking Amanor shoulder to shoulder the defender with the challenge taking the ball off Amanor behind for a goal kick.

Stevenage defender, Elly Wade

Harley Carr playing the ball on for Wodhams for Stevenage as she breaks forwards looks to play Wiltshire in on the right channel, Kacey Williams stepping in to cut the pass out for Harpenden at the back. Makewell’s turn to try and pick out the run from Wiltshire into the box on the right, Strouts getting to the ball first her kick charged down by the striker, the rebound favouring Harpenden.

Chloe Dinsey getting the ball on for Harpenden putting it to Mercer moving right her shot from distance on the angle claimed by Hazelton at her near post. Lucy Webster sending the ball on for Wilshire on the right turns onto her left foot as she breaks into the box and takes on the strike half blocked by Warren, half hearted appeals for hand ball as the ball is diverted back to the keeper.

Captain, Sarah Wiltshire bringing the ball on for Stevenage

Stevenage building a little momentum as the game approaches the half hour mark Carr into Wiltshire taking the ball right flashes a cross into the six yard box, both Croucher and Makewell making runs to attack the ball just over both, wide past the far post, Wodhams retrieves but is closed down before she can get a meaningful ball back into the mix. Zoe Allen left into Dinsey central for Harpenden lays it forwards for Amanor looks to take on the ball drive towards the box, closed down by Edge the ball cleared.

Up the other end Wiltshire after the ball into the right gets her side a corner kick, the delivery into the near side initially cleared, coming back to Pearson at the top of the area right of goal sends a shot looping in up over the crossbar. An intriguing match up, Oguntuga wriggling free of her marker on the right, her cross fired into the near post Wade tracking back on Amanor as she looks to attack it turned behind for a corner kick. The corner cleared back to Mercer on the right sees her 2nd attempt to put a cross in charged down by Savage out for a throw in the corner.

Amana Oguntuga with Stevenage’s Hannah Savage

Possession back with Harpenden in the middle Mercer opening up her body to lay the ball forwards into Amanor, inside the D turning on the ball to unleash a shot in low, Hazelton down sharply to make the save with her legs. A chance up the other end as Wiltshire sends the ball on for Croucher making a run into the box wide right, Strouts coming out to try and close her down Croucher already moving away from goal tries to get the ball back past her, but so too wide of the near post.

Savage looks to break away for Stevenage left side running into the corner, Oguntuga going with her the pair coming together going down awkwardly the cross findings it’s way into the six yard block play goes on as a scramble ensues the ball blocked at close range popping up for Wiltshire right of goal, sending it back in, Strouts getting hold of it. Play stopped then as both Savage and Oguntuga have stayed down, looked to be a nasty one, Savage the first back to her feet, Oguntuga however in alot of discomfort feeling her ankle, hopping to the side-line doesn’t want to come off but waved back on as play resumes she knows she can’t continue the change has to be made. Leah Shellard coming on in her place on the right.

Amy Makewell on the attack for Stevenage

The substitute nips in to get hold of the ball on the right, drives forwards on the flank, Edge getting back at her to tackle deny the cross, the ball popping loose back for Mercer to put one into the box from deep long to the far post no one can get there. Shannon into Dinsey on for Deville left of the D, looks to get it down turn to shoot, Edge in to close her down with the blocking tackle. Dowdall stepping in to win the ball as Wiltshire breaks on into the right channel. Webster with a strong run from the back for Stevenage carrying the ball forwards the final pass looking for Wiltshire pulling right intercepted by Ford.

Into injury time at the end of the 1st half several minutes to be added due to the injuries, Harpenden with a free-kick out on the left put in from deep, Hazelton punching the ball clear out of her box falling to Mercer 25 yards out has Dinsey to the right laying the ball into her digs out the shot dropping wide of goal. A late break from Stevenage as Makewell takes the ball on playing in Wiltshire to the right, checks back inside to shoot on the angle, into the near post Strouts behind it blocking with her chest collecting the ball on the bounce. Harpenden mount on last attack Allen into the box as Amanor helps the ball on left side in front of goal slides in accidentally on Wade as the defender gets the ball clear, up okay as the whistle blows for half-time.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 1-0 Harpenden Town Women

A competitive 1st half drawing to a close, Amber Pearson’s 11th minute strike the difference between the sides, has been a physical contest, Harpenden working hard to get after Stevenage on the ball stretched at the back as a result sometimes, Stevenage yet to capitalise getting layers forwards well, Harpenden keeping numbers up to attack the ball in the final third a few half chances and Amanor forcing Hazelton into a crucial save to keep the clean sheet. A single goal in it still very much all to play for players to bring off the bench you feel there are more goals waiting in the 2nd half.

No changes for either side at the break, the sun still shining the threat of a shower looking to have passed as Harpenden get the 2nd half underway the ball hit long into the left channel, Webster dealing with it for Stevenage. Stevenage get the ball on through the middle, Croucher with Wodhams into Wiltshire up top looks to spin off, Ford try and get into the box right side, the defender getting back on her shoulder forcing her off the ball.

A lively start to the 2nd half, both sides after each other in the centre, Carr wining it for Stevenage on for Makewell, her pass out wide to Wiltshire cut out by Allen.

Harpenden’s Zoe Allen

GOAL! Harpenden pour players forwards as they break through the middle Deville linking up with Amanor pulling left of the D, comes back inside to fire the ball in across the top of the area picking out Shellard positioned to the right of the D, digs the shot out to see it loop up past the keeper into the back of the net to level up the score 1-1.

Leah Shellard levelling up the scores for Harpenden

Harpenden back on level terms five minutes into the 2nd half. The game end to end as Harpenden halt a Stevenage surge through the middle, the ball out with Allen on the left plays it on for Deville her cross cleared by Wade.

Stevenage defender, Lucy Webster

Webster defending for Stevenage inside the box as Harpenden win a throw high on the left looks to dribble the ball out of the area almost runs into trouble as Amanor closes her down her attempt at goal blocked the ball cleared.

Stevenage’s Rebecca Edge setting herself up to tackle Amanor as she drives forwards with the ball

Harpenden confident as they come forwards with Allen on the ball taking the ball inside on for Mercer making a central run ahead of her, tackled by Wade top of the D. Mercer getting the ball out to Shellard wide right pressing on with the ball, Edge moves out to close her down, going down in the tackle and staying down in alot of discomfort another long pause in play as she receives treatment, doesn’t look like she can continue as she is helped off the pitch taken off on comes Leonie Telford, into right back seeing Webster move inside.

An hour gone the game resumes Hazelton hitting the ball long to Wiltshire breaking right channel, looks to make a nuisance of herself but can’t get a shot away. Deville tackled as she takes the ball on from Allen left side, wide all of 3 yards out Shannon over the ball takes on the shot over the wall but over at the near post. Wiltshire winning a corner on the left as her cross is blocked. Emotions high from the Harpenden bench as Savage is upended in front of their bench the free-kick going against them. From deep launched up into the area, Wiltshire looking to bring it down an awkward angle to try and carve out a shot, Ford into close her down the ball away.

Hazelton out to the right of her box to get down and claim the ball as Amanor looks to power her way clear on the right. Deville squeezing the ball away out on the left turning inside, Telford back on her the cross deflected long across the top of the area Amanor over in the right corner lacking support works the ball well to gain a corner kick. Curled into the near post, Wade getting something on it to get it away for Stevenage. Pearson coming on well through the middle sends the ball into Makewell inside the D, lets it run past her with Wiltshire pulling off her to get in behind the defence, Strouts out smartly to gather it up first.

Harpenden goalkeeper, Daisy Strouts

Shannon looks to hit the ball on the run from range as Mercer lays the ball into her path for Harpenden the attempt blazing over. The game moving into the final 15 minutes but again there will be several minutes of stoppages to add, Makewell chasing the ball down on the by-line holding it up as Croucher gets on in support top left of the box the ball played into her, Deville back to help in defence for Harpenden closing her down. Pearson from 30 yards out frustrated as she slices a shot wide.

GOAL! Pearson chasing down the ball on the right the game stretched players racing to get into the box the cross in from the by-line flashing in across the face of goal, Wiltshire throwing herself at it at the far post to turn the ball over to restore Stevenage’s lead and score her 50th goal of the season in the process 2-1.

Sarah Wiltshire celebrates as she scores her 50th Stevenage goal of the season.

Stevenage making a chance immediately after with Makewell giving way for Eva Delaney. The great stretched Stevenage counter Wodhams looking to release Delaney out on the right into space, the pass a little strong, Delaney nevertheless stopping it from going out of play and then sending a diagonal ball back towards to top of the area for Wodhams to attack her shot saved by Strouts legs as she gets down to block.

Pearson trying her luck out wide on the left angling a shot in with pace towards goal her effort brushing off the top of the crossbar. Harpenden making a change bringing off Mercer, on comes Erin Shacklock. Amanor getting the ball on for Deville breaking on into the right channel, savage in to challenge her for Stevenage. Amanor with the ball in the right channel held up plays it back inside for Shannon 25 yards out strikes the shot in on goal, her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. Another change for Harpenden, Deville the player taken off, Seryan Kabongo entering the action with 85 minutes played.

Kacee Warren and Amy Makewell

Wiltshire sending a cross form a deep position on the left into the box, Wodhams forwards keeping it in play wide of goal but can’t do anything with it before being closed down by Warren. A frantic finish to the match Harpenden keen to get the ball forwards, Webster cutting a ball out as they look to go left. Harpenden with a free-kick from halfway lifting up to the top of the area, Kabongo trying to get hold of it, closed down.

Amanor booked as she is deemed to have kicked the ball away after the offside flag goes up against her as she surges on in the right channel. All action as Amanor gets the ball inside the D from the right, Kabongo looking to take it on Wade diving in with the tackle the ball away for the throw. Hazelton kicking the ball long up field looking for Wiltshire pulling of the last defender, Warren keeping close attention to the bouncing ball. 6 minutes of stoppage time to be played Harpenden pushing hard to find an equaliser, Amanor strong winning a corner on the right. The in-swinger taken comfortably by Hazleton. Shannon with a wild punt from range 30 yards out the ball swerving through the air running wide of the right post.

GOAL! Harpenden pushing p[layers on with the clock ticking down 3 minutes of injury time played overload the right Shellard and Amanor linking up with Kabongo who out wide 20 yards out smashes her foot through the ball driving it on low across goal and into the bottom corner to cue wild celebrations 2-2!

Seryan Kabongo striking to fire Harpenden back on level terms in stoppage time

GOAL! Just as Harpenden have done enough to force the game into a shootout, Stevenage hit back straight away breaking on in attack the ball Croucher putting the ball on for Wiltshire into space on the right taking the ball on sends a vicious cross into the six yard box, Pearson sliding in at the near post to send it home and put them back into the lead, 3-2!

Stevenage hit straight back, Amber Pearson making it 3-2!

Seconds left, Wiltshire looking to run the ball into the corner to eat up valuable time. Pearson coming off, with Alysha Stojko-Down on to see out the game. Harpenden getting a last gasp corner, everyone up into the box including the keeper as Crick fires the ball into the box from the left, cleared up to Telford looks to try and get it down try to get a strike at the empty net, Kabongo covering the ground to get back on her. The last action of the game as Stevenage come out on top in a dramatic finish to the game to win the Challenge Cup for the 6th time

Everyone up for the corner

Full time Stevenage FC Women 3-2 Harpenden Town Women

Well that was certainly a dramatic end to the Challenge Cup Final, Harpenden giving it a real go the score-line much closer than some predicted, as will give Harpenden plenty of encouragement despite losing it in such a fashion. Stevenage make to earn the win but were as determined themselves holding a slender lead at the break, were pegged back by Harpenden early on the 2nd half coming back to take the lead with Wilshire scoring her 50th goal of the season, Harpenden made changes kept coming pushing hard and found the equaliser in stoppage time, but you’re never more vulnerable than when you score and Stevenage hit straight back getting the ball on and in across the face of goal for Pearson to slide in and score the winning goal. The two sides meeting again in the League Cup Final, Harpenden knowing they can compete, Stevenage on course for the treble will know they can’t be complacent.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the day, again a tough one to call, and exciting cup final both sides playing their part. A few performances to mention, firstly for Harpenden, Sophia Amanor is a handful to deal with up top strong holding up the ball and prepared to take players on whilst readily setting up others. Ella Mercer go forwards well to support the attack pressing the ball high along side Chloe Dinsey. Kacee Warren at the back with a number of useful tackles. For Stevenage Elly Wade was strong at the back closing the ball down, putting her body in to block and intercept. Gemma Croucher busy getting about the pitch taking the ball and players on. Sarah Wiltshire making several great runs lively getting into the channels, looking to find and opening as scored her 50th Stevenage goal in just her 1st season with the club. The award going to the match winner, Amber Pearson, opened the scoring used the ball well and got on to support the attack.

Stevenage FC Women 2025/26 Hertfordshire FA Women’s Senior Challenge Cup winners

Congratulations to Stevenage FC Women on winning their 6th Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup and completing a double.

Another enjoyable day down in Hertfordshire, two great finals, and the weather was mostly fine. Good to catch up with both sides and thanks to Stevenage for supplying me with the team info. Thanks too, to Hertfordshire FA’s, Seb Hutchinson for his assistance today much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Ware United Ladies v Berkhamsted Ladies

Sunday 12th April

Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy Final

Making the trip down to Hertfordshire this Sunday for a cup final double bill, to The County Ground, Letchworth, for the Herts FA Women’s Trophy and Women’s Senior Challenge Cup Finals, First up the Women’s Trophy final this season being contested by Ware United Ladies and Berkhamsted Ladies.

Hertfordshire FA making the decision to split their women’s county cup into two competitions back in 2024. Creating the Women’s Trophy competition to partner the Senior Women’s Challenge Cup. County Cups seeing teams compete from usually tier 3 down to county level can often lead to some eye watering score-lines and wasted weekends due to teams pulling out of a one sided contest. This format although not immune to high scoring games creates a better opportunity to teams to compete for silverware with the national and regional clubs contesting the County Cup, the county league sides playing for the Trophy. No regional sides in this season’s Trophy competition sees an all BHWGFL Premier Division (tier 7) final.

This morning’s prize.

The BHWGFL (Beds & Herts Women’s & Girls Football League) Premier Division has always been one of the most competitive leagues I’ve covered during my time doing Women’s Football East, this year no exception with the title going all the way, new side AFC Welwyn Ladies currently top by 3 points with one to play, can be caught by Ware United Ladies in 2nd and Ampthill Town Ladies in 3rd.

Ware United Ladies pushing at the top of the Premier Division all season into a cup final for the 2nd successive season, narrowly missing out on the League Cup last season will be aiming to go one better in the Women’s Trophy Final. Have brought in a strong squad packed with experience and in Paige Pryor have the league top scorer with 25 goals across all competitions this season. 3 points behind leaders AFC Welwyn Ladies with one game to play and a result to be determined will take the title race all the way. Formed in 2024 with the bulk of then St Margaretsbury Ladies who had reached the Chris Renshaw Cup final the season before have pushed on reaching the League Cup final and finishing 4th last season to press for the title this time around and another cup final appearance.

Berkhamsted Ladies enjoying a successful beginning entering the BHWGFL in 2023, finishing 4th in their debut season went on to finish runners-up last season to clinch promotion to the Premier Division and won the Chris Renshaw Cup Final beating Sherrardswood Ladies 2-1. Have built strongly on that success more than holding their own in the Premier Division currently 5th in the table with 3 games to play and can push for a 4th place finish at the very least. One cup final appearance last season, making it two this time around as along with reaching the Women’s Trophy final will be facing AFC Welwyn Ladies in the final of the BHWGFL League Cup in May. A busy end to the season but looking to finish on a high. Plenty of goals in the side, Amy Bentall the top scorer with 17 across all competitions with Nicole Hollick and Ruby Curry on 13 and 12 respectfully.

Road to the Final

A bye for both Ware United Ladies and Berkhamsted Ladies in the 1st Round of the Trophy competition. Both sides progressing without kicking a ball too in the 2nd round as they were awarded an away win in Ware United’s case and a home win for Berkhamsted.

So onto the quarter finals, Ware United drawn away to Division Three newcomers and table toppers, Hitchin Belles Women Whites, two form sides Ware had the quality to easily see off their opponents running out 7-1 winners in the finish Paige Pryor rattling home 4 goals, with Sherrie Evans, Billie Curtis and Rebecca Brooker all finding the back of the net with a goal each. Berkhamsted too wracking up double figures in their quarter final clash as they were drawn at home to Division One bottom side, Letchworth Garden City Eagles, their opponents light on numbers Berkhamsted picked off the goals with Amy Bentall, Ruby Curry, Nicola Hollick and Natasha McConville all bagging a brace with a goal each for Bianca Hedgecock and Jessica Green in a 10-1 win.

Into the business end of the competition the last 4, aiming to book a final spot, Ware drawn away to fellow Premier Division side, Oaklands Wolves Women. Pryor was again on fire in front of goal smashing home a hat-trick, Millie Fraser also grabbing a goal as Ware ran out 4-0 victors to reach the Trophy final. Berkhamsted at home taking on Harpenden Town Women Colts flying high in Division One the away side scoring twice, Nicola Hollick firing in a brace for the hosts with Ruby Curry and Casey Evans also getting a goal apiece to see Berkhamsted win 4-2 to reach the trophy final would go on to beat the same opponents 5-2 away from home a week later to in the League Cup semi-finals to make it a double finals appearance.

The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for this mornings Trophy final, home to the Hertfordshire FA nestled in the corner of the ground. Featuring a large 3G pitch, the ground has undergone a good deal of renovation over recent season’s a main stand on one side behind the dugouts with the café underneath serving hot food and drink. A covered terraced stand opposite with standing viewing around, a pleasant spring morning with the sun bright, albeit a little chilly in the shade the forecast hinting at a few sharp showers throughout the day.

Ware United Ladies starting XI – Daniela Martucci, Hollie Sibbett, Aoife Loriga, Hannah Fowler (C), Charlotte Walker, Izzy Tuck, Cleo Haynes, Sherrie Evans, Billie Curtis, Millie Fraser & Paige Pryor. Subs – Rebecca Brooker, Maisie Collins, Natasha Crick, Georgia Gannaway & Poppy Latham.

Ware United Ladies

Berkhamsted Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Howey, Ellie Smith, Heather Illsley, Sarah Hunt, Maddie Gresham, Nat McConville, Bianca Hedgecock, Ruby Curry (C) Nicola Hollick, Casey Evans & Amy Bentall. Subs – Rosie Lewis-Roberts, Helen Rogers, Leah Haley, Jess Green & Andrea Hunyadi.

Berkhamsted Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The game to be decided by a penalty shoot-out should the scores be level after 90 minutes.

Captains, Hannah Fowler and Ruby Curry with today’s match officials lead by referee Alice Braithwaite.

Ready to go, Ware to take the kick-off in the first half, wearing white coloured shirts and socks with black shorts, Berkhamsted lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue across the shoulder and sleeves, blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to Izzy Tuck in midfield she clips it long out to the left looking for Billie Curtis on the flank, full back Heather Illsley seeing it safely out of play for the throw in.

Ware’s Billie Curtis

The pitch a good size has quite a spring to it too the ball bouncing up, Berkhamsted look to mount their first attack the ball played through the middle out to Casey Evans on the left wing carries the ball forwards, Hollie Sibbett moving in to close her down with the tackle the ball out for another throw. An open start both sides moving in quickly to close the other down passes rushed as a result, Ware striker Paige Pryor seeing the ball into her feet turns it on into the left wing for Curtis to chase, the pass a little strong runs away from her for a goal kick.

Competitive in the middle a few robust challenges as both sides go in to win the ball, cagey, Curtis pressing the defence on the right as Berkhamsted look to see the ball out of play succeeds in winning her side a corner kick. A high ball into the box, over everyone out beyond the far post. Nat McConville seeing the ball on for Nicola Hollick through the middle for Berkhamsted drives forwards before laying it into the right channel for striker Amy Bentall, Charlotte Walker getting to it first for Ware to see it back to goalkeeper, Daniela Martucci, who I’m used to seeing as an outfield player clear up field.

Berkhamsted’s, Nicola Hollick

Cleo Haynes pushing on from the middle for Ware tackled outside the box the ball running loose to Pryor 35 yards out has a pop from range her effort lacking the power to trouble Berkhamsted goalkeeper, Charlotte Howey. Berkhamsted pushing on up the right getting themselves a corner of a throw. Casey Evans to take into the top of the opposition area, Ware moving in quickly to deny a shot the ball not clear though a diagonal ball back in from the left cut out by captain, Hannah Fowler.

Ware United Ladies captain, Hannah Fowler

Hollick turning on the ball releasing Casey Evans out on the right with her pass sends it back into the top of the D for Bentall, looking to get it out of her feet, is quickly closed down by 3 ware defenders the ball put back to the keeper. Ware counter well Tuck into Millie Fraser right channel, looks to play the diagonal through ball back inside for Pryor making a run in behind the Berkhamsted defence but she goes too early the flag up against her for offside.

Fairly even, fast paced both sides a little wasteful with the ball the game not settling down, Ware with a throw on the left, Haynes to take has a long throw in her arsenal, into the box his knocked up and on near side, Howey getting her fist up to punch it away to safety. Fraser spotting the run of captain Ruby Curry through the middle, sends the ball on Maddie Gresham getting across in the nick of time to get a touch take it on for her keeper to clear.

Ware midfielder, Izzy Tuck

No quarter given a little physical, Tuck and Haynes in strongly to win the ball back for Ware as they get numbers up well on the left, inside for Curtis corner of the box lays it back to Pryor to strike on the angle 25 yards out drills her shot wide of the near post. Fraser on the right from deep hooking a ball in high towards the top of the area looknig for Pryor, the striker after it, Howey out to the edge of her box keeping her eye on the ball seeing it down into her gloves as Pryor comes it they make contact the goalkeeper briefly losing the ball but quick to snatch it back into her gloves.

Paige Pryor

Busy Berkhamsted winning a corner on the right off of a free-kick, the delivery long across the six yard box retrieved by Sarah Hunt beyond the far post turns it back towards the top of the area, Haynes lunging in to get it clear. Hunt then defends up the other end the central defender across to stop Pryor as she looks to get in on the end of another long throw from Haynes.

Berkhamsted’s, Sarah Hunt

Bentall gets hold of the ball out on the left flank for Berkhamsted, drives on, evading a tackle cutting inside to surge into the box left of goal strikes the ball low, Martucci with a superb save reactive down low to block the ball half cleared to the top of the area another shot charged down. The bounce of the ball causing a few issues for defenders, Pryor especially looking to capitalise for Ware. Sherrie Evans sending the ball into Pryor looks to release Fraser making a run into the right channel, Ellie Smith stretching to deny her for Berkhamsted.

Haynes getting back at Fraser on the flank as the winger initially evades her challenge. Tuck moving in to tackle McConville as she looks to combine with Curry through the middle for Berkhamsted. Illsley lunging in to stop Curtis as she looks to take the ball on from Aoife Loriga as the full back carries the ball forwards. Haynes getting her throw into Pryor outside the near post looks to bring it down turn into the shot, Hunt nicking it off her toes to clear for Berkhamsted.

Heather Illsley

Pryor fancying her chances from range sees the ball rebound to her from all of 35 yards out central, hit on the half volley her effort over the crossbar. Somewhere in the general melee for possession of the ball Pryor has picked up some blood on her face and sent over to the dugout to get it sorted, is fine to carry on. Hollick getting out to the left for Bentall to chase, managing to keep it in play burst forwards down the flank into space her cross squared into the top of the area, Bianca Hedgecock breaking on from midfield looking to get on the end of it, Walker getting a timely touch for Ware at the back.

Haynes long throws for Ware causing Berkhamsted a few concerns the ball flung into the area turned behind by Illsley for a corner out on the left put in high dropping far post, Pryor attacking it heads the ball back across and over the bar. The referee having a word with Tuck as she goes in to tackle Curry giving away the foul wide on the right. om inside their own half the ball is fired up towards to top of the Ware area, Hedgecock up well to get her head on the ball knock it down to the right into the path of Curry from the angle strikes the ball wide across the face of goal.

Cleo Haynes

The ball rarely still a good sized pitch both side covering the ground, Ware looking to get the ball into Pryor up top, Berkhamsted’s main threat Bentall driving wit the ball at her feet from the left. Walker with another vital interception getting her toes on the ball as Hollick looks to steal in through the middle. The clock ticking down in the first half Berkhamsted winning a corner out on the right, Casey Evans to play it on from the right, long over everyone, retrieved by McConville on the left, drives for the box, getting past one defender, nutmegging a second before clattering into a third, appeals but half heartedly nothing doing.

Nat McConville

Moving into injury time at the end of the first half Berkhamsted winning a free-kick wide on the right a card shown and an injury to Loriga, Ware making a change as she comes off to be replaced by Rebecca Brooker. Casey Evans putting the free-kick into the box, Smith near side can’t get it out from under her feet for the short manages to get it back to Evans to fire in a 2nd cross, Hunt up too try and get her head on it central can only glance it wide past the far post out to the left. Hollick combining with Bentall out wide left as they work the ball in across the top of the area Casey Evans making a run right of the D, cut out by Walker. One last chance falling to McConville as the ball cleared out of the Ware box comes to her as she runs to attack it 30 yards out fires her shot wide of the right post.

Half-time Ware United Ladies 0-0 Berkhamsted Ladies

The sides heading back into the changing rooms goalless at the break has been an open and competitive tussle, cagey too with both moving in to close the ball down a great save from Martucci to deny Bentall, Berkhamsted taking a little while to settle, Ware have be combative in the middle getting players up and around Pryor in attack, but as of yet neither side breaking the deadlock.

Berkhamsted to get the 2nd half underway making a change bringing of Smith at the back sending on Leah Haley. Ware unchanged with Broker on late in the 1st half. The ball into McConville central sends it long looking for Bentall on the advance left flank has kept Sibbett busy the full back able to see this pass out for a throw. Bentall showing attacking intent at the start of the half taking the ball on from Hollick wide left delivering a cross into the top of the Ware box, intercepted by Tuck, comes back out to McConville 25 yards out her low shot straight at the keeper, Howey down behind it to hold.

Berkhamsted looking to impose themselves at the start of the 2nd half getting players on Bentall left, Casey Evans right and Hollick and Curry through the middle. Haynes playing the ball into Brooker on the left takes it on towards the top of the area sweeping the pass into the D looking for Fraser, she attempts to turn it into the box for Pryor pulling off the defence, Hunt leaving her to get her foot on the ball to clear.

Ware coming back into it Curtis driving on with the ball left side her high cross into the near post claimed by Howey. The game remains open, Berkhamsted turning play around quickly, McConville on halfway picking out Hollick getting on into space in the right channel she diverts the diagonal ball into the box central looking to pick out Bentall bursting in behind, slides it to try and get the ball even as Howey comes the opposite way diving in at her feet the pair come together the ball running on into the back of the net but it won’t count as the flag is up for offside.

Amy Bentall on the attack for Berkhamsted

Howey staying down in need of a moment to recover and receive treatment. Is thankfully okay and back up on her feet. Howey with a good starting point in her box to come claim the ball at the edge of her area as Berkhamsted put a flowing attack together, Hollick inside right into McConville attempts the through ball to split the centre backs as Curry provides the run, Howey with her gloves on the ball.

Ware winning a free-kick deep on the right, flighted up into the box right of goal, Pryor up well on to knock it down into the mix, Hedgecock trapping the ball between her feet stabbing it out for a throw on the right.

GOAL! Haynes with the throw knocked on near side into the six yard box, Brooker getting onto the end of it to smash the ball past the keeper and open the scoring 1-0. Ware leading 10 minutes into the 2nd half.

Ware celebrate as they take the lead

Rebecca Brooker with the opening goal.

A blow for Berkhamsted look to get straight on the attack from the restart winning a throw high on the left, Curry bringing it inside, Bentall taking over 25 yards out shoots over.

GOAL! Berkhamsted hitting back straight away as they pile players forwards, the ball out on the right with Casey Evans her angled ball into the far post seeing Bentall bursting in to attack it lifting it over the keeper to fire her side back back on level terms 1-1.

Amy Bentall quick to get Berkhamsted back on level terms

The game has gone a little frantic as both sides both energised by scoring and flustered by conceding rush to close the ball down. Berkhamsted making a change, Hedgecock coming off to be replaced by Andrea Hunyadi. Curry seeing the ball into her feet from Hollick looks to play Bentall in left side, Haynes cutting it out, back with Curry turns the ball into the right flank for Casey Evans, Curtis back at her to put in the challenge deny the cross.

Tuck coming off for Ware, on in her place comes Georgia Gannaway. Casey Evans right for Berkhamsted fires a ball into the box, Fowler lunging for it turns the ball on into the path of Curry attacking top of the area left of the D, sees her strike at goal blocked.

Casey Evans

Pryor breaking clear on the right wide angling a shot in towards goal, Martucci down smartly to turn the ball wide beyond the far post, left side Brooker keeps it in play turns it back into the area for Sherrie Evans six yards out goes to shoot, Martucci throwing up a glove to make the save the ball cleared.

Ware goalkeeper, Daniela Martucci

Lively as Brooker carries the ball forwards for Ware passes it to Pryor with Haynes looking to make a run beyond her, Gresham reading it intercepting the ball for Berkhamsted. A rapid counter attack the ball lifted into Bentall out on the left driving for the by-line her cross flashed in across the face of goal snatched up by Howey. Gresham tackling well to half Brooker’s attack as she surges inside off the left wing. Ware making a substitution with Pryor coming off up top, Natasha Crick replacing her.

Gannaway fouled for Ware 30 yards out to the left of the area, Fraser over the set-piece goes for goal over the wall the ball dropping wide of the near post. Ware winning a free-kick in the corner Illsley upending Fraser. Crick to play it into the box from the left, across the six yard box attacked by Fraser, Howey diving to turn it wide to the right past the post for a corner kick.

GOAL! Walker to deliver the ball into the box, defended in front of the near post the ball coming back out to her on the angle, shapes to fire it back in struck with pace across goal, a faint touch from the keeper not enough to stop it finding the bottom corner as Walker runs off in celebration scoring her first goal of the season and an important one too to put Ware back into the lead 2-1.

Charlotte Walker runs away in celebration as she puts Ware back into the lead

Ware back into the lead inside the final 15 minutes of the match, making a change Maisie Collins coming on in place of Haynes in the middle. Berkhamsted with a change too as Smith returns to the pitch in place of Illsley at the back. Ware with their tails up Fraser racing on left to the by-line Howey getting out to grab hold of the ball. Fowler charges down Casey Evans as she goes to pull the trigger 20 yards out as the ball comes across the area to her from the left.

Ware winning a free-kick on the right, a dangerous ball in Sherrie Evans going in far post on the keeper, the ball cleared off the line by Gresham. Evans hurt in the attack but is alright to play on. Up the other end Martucci is quickly out to the top of her area to save at the feet of Curry as she makes a break in through the middle. Players picking up knocks changes made, Hedgecock back on for Smith, Tuck back on for Sibbett. Curtis taking the ball off the feet of Casey Evans sending it behind for a corner kick, fired in from the right high across the six yard box, Martucci with a fist on the ball to turn it wide and additional touch on the way through seeing a goal-kick awarded.

Fowler getting the tackle in on Hollick as she looks to make headway through the middle. Has been hinting at rain for a while dark clouds about retreating to the stand beyond as ware look to keep hold of the ball use up valuable time Berkhamsted doesn’t have. The burst of rain going away as quickly as it came however the next two pictures following in sequence moments apart.

Berkhamsted defender, Maddie Gresham with Ware’s Natasha Crick

Fowler across to charge down Casey Evans cross to concede a corner late in the game. The ball sent into the top of the area, no one can get a telling touch. Berkhamsted look to keep the attack alive the ball angled in from the left defended by Sherrie Evans. Time almost up Gresham travelling on with the ball, looks to pick out Bentall on the left the ball cleared for a throw. The final whistle blows and Ware United Ladies celebrate as they win their 1st ever trophy.

Full time Ware United Ladies 2-1 Berkhamsted Ladies

Ware United Ladies winning the Hertfordshire Women’s Trophy final, drawing 0-0 at the break Berkhamsted came out strong at the start of the 2nd half creating chances, saw a goal ruled out for offside. Ware coming back strong themselves to open the scoring through Rebecca Brooker, Berkhamsted with an immediate response through Amy Bentall. The winner coming in the final 15 minutes, Charlotte Walker with her first goal of the season to send Ware back into the lead and they held on to claim the win.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, difficult to single one player out several strong contenders from both sides, a few to mention, firstly for Berkhamsted, Amy Bentall was a potent threat all game attacking from the flanks driving with the ball creating chances taking one. Maddie Gresham with a number of vital interceptions and tackles at the back. Daniela Martucci with some fine saves to deny Berkhamsted. Nicola Hollick looking to get about the pitch join the attack link up play. For Ware, captain Hannah Fowler and defensive partner Charlotte Walker got in some important challenges, Walker scoring the winning goal. Paige Pryor ready to receive the ball looking constantly for an opening. Izzy Tuck put herself about in the middle disrupting and breaking up play. Rebecca Brooker came on to good effect providing a useful outlet on the wing and getting Ware into the lead. The award though goes to midfielder, Cleo Haynes covered the ground got stuck in to win the ball and came forwards well to bolster the attack her long throws potent too.

Congratulations to Ware United Ladies on winning the Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy.

Ware United Ladies 2025/26 Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy winners

An entertaining first cup final of the day, stayed mostly dry, came to life in the 2nd half and could have gone either way, Ware getting themselves into the lead with little time left and didn’t surrender their lead a 2nd time. Berkhamsted disappointed to miss out on the trophy having little time to recover back in league action on Wednesday evening at home playing Stotfold Women. Good to see both sides in action and thanks for their assistance.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Ely City Women v Spalding United Women

Thursday 9th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final

Heading down the A10 this evening for my 2nd cup final of the season, this time from Cambridgeshire with the Women’s League Cup taking place at Ely City FC’s, Demcom Stadium with Ely City Women’s team playing at their home stadium facing new side Spalding United Women.

The cup final season getting into full swing with plenty of showcase games to come across the East of England. This season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup once again sponsored The Alan Boswell Group who have long supported women’s football in the county.

This evenings prize

Ely City Women reaching their 2nd cup final in successive season’s having played in last season’s, Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation cup final, then a Division Three side, losing narrowly to Division one side, Cambridge Rangers WFC. Going onto clinch promotion to Division Two this season have become an integral part of Ely City FC itself, the club long supporting women’s football, hosting finals as well as the home of Cambridge United and Cambridge City Women for a spell. Forming their own women’s side in 2022, after a slow start building a strong squad to gain promotion, have further added a Reserves side this campaign, the 1st team making a strong account of themselves in Division Two currently in 4th position. Charliene Murombo joining Ely this season current joint top scorer with 7 goals to her name along side Danni Youngs with both Beth Horsfield and Treasure Nwanebu on 5 apiece. A special occasion for Ely City Women with this season’s final being played at their home venue.

Spalding United Women (The Tulips) a new side established this season with a strong squad with mixture of experience and young talent the South Lincolnshire side going straight into Division One in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football league. Playing catch up early on in the season as they were involved in a number of cup games a useful run in the FA Women’s Cup as well as going all the way to the finals of both the League Cup and senior Lincolnshire Women’s County Cup. Opening their league campaign with successive draws followed by back to back wins have lost just the one league game to date against 2nd placed Godmanchester Rovers Women back in November, haven’t looked back since wining 9 in a row to power their way to the top of the Division One table, where it looks to be a straight fight between them and Godmanchester themselves who have only lost one for the title. Plenty of goals in the squad too, Constance Onyinah the leading goal scorer netting 27 goals in her 16 appearances. Tara Parker has 17 goals from 12 games with 11 others scoring 28 goals between them. Are producing some great content on social media.

Road to the final

Ely receiving a bye in the 1st two rounds of the League Cup. Spalding with a bye too in the 1st round away to fellow Division One side, Soham Town Rangers Women in the 2nd Round, Tara Parker scoring in the 1st minute, Constance Onyinah adding a 2nd in the 1st half, Carla Penny netting twice for Soham Rangers, Spalding edging the result 3-2 with a goal from Ava Smith in the 2nd half.

Into the 3rd Round, Ely at home taking on fellow Division Two side, Lincolnshire Swifts Ladies a single goal scored by Emily Grande-Buttimer enough to secure the win and send Ely into the quarter finals. Spalding on the road again taking on newly reformed Hertfordshire side, Royston Town Women Reserves, a brace from Onyinah scoring in each half seeing them safely through to the last 8.

Ely with a tough test but home advantage in the quarter finals taking on fellow league side Real Bedford Women Development, emerging a strong title contenders early on. Hannah Dove scoring for Real Bedford, Natasha Lane scoring a goal for Ely to see the sides draw the match 1-1 before heading to a penalty shootout, Danni Youngs, Megan Dunlevy and Tiana O’Hara scoring their penalties for Ely who won the shootout 3-2 to book their spot in the semi-finals. Spalding again away from home playing another Division One side, Waterbeach Colts WFC in the quarter finals, Falling a goal behind after 15 minutes Spalding hit back straight away through Ava Smith to see the sides level at half-time, Spalding going on to score 3 goals in the 2nd half to progress into the semi-finals with a brace for Onyinah and a late goal from Alisha Rix.

Ely drawn at home for their semi-final clash as they took on the current League Cup holders, Newmarket Town Women Development. Beth Horsfield firing Ely into an early lead from a free-kick awarded for a back pass inside the box. The hosts doubling their advantage through Charliene Murombo to see them lead 2-0 at the break, worked hard in the 2nd period to defend that advantage and won through to the League Cup Final. Spalding drawn away again in the competition playing fellow Division One side Cambridge Rangers WFC in the last 4. Another brace from Onyinah and a goal for Parker seeing them secure a cup final place in their debut season going through 3-1.

The Demcom Stadium, home of Ely City FC the venue for this season’s Women’s league Cup final. Amongst a number of sports facilities nestled behind a food and drinks entertainment site on the outskirts of Ely just off the A10. The stadium featuring a large main grass pitch overlooked by a high stand building over the changing rooms with standing viewing all round. The clubhouse and kitchen beside the main stand serving hot food and drinks. The recent warm spell on the way out temperatures dropping back to normal a few clouds around with the hint of rain in the air.

Ely City Women starting XI – Atlanta Stevenson, Kerry Dyer, Emma Cooper, Ellie Cooper (C), Natasha Lane, Louisa Harwood, Treasure Nwanebu, Geovanna Salles, Beth Horsfield, Danni Youngs & Charliene Murombo. Subs – April Kitchen, Christine Cullen, Erin Chandler, Kaci Gibson & Tiana O’Mara.

Ely City Women

Spalding United Women starting XI – Vickie Foster, Lily Forsyth, Ivy Lane, Amber Nieburg, Chloe Biggadike, Annie Vayro, Nicola Krajewska, Tara Parker, Phoebe Richards-Reeves (C), Emily King & Constance Onyinah. Subs – Grace Hill, Sophie Goodwin, Molli McCormack, Ava Smith & Phoebie Eyett.

Spalding United Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Phoebe Richards-Reeves and Ellie Cooper with this evenings match officials

The floodlights beginning to take effect as the two sides are led out onto the pitch by this evenings referee Rob Smith and his two assistants Anouska Williamson and Paul Vincent with Jamie Rayner the 4th official. A good number in attendance, a drum banging loudly behind one goal. Ely wearing an all red kit with white trim on the shirts and shorts to take the kick-off in the first half, Spalding lined up opposite wearing a all blue coloured kit with yellow trip on the shirts and socks. The ball played back to the defence, Emma Cooper sending it long out to the right for Charliene Murombo bursting forwards but the Spalding defence can see it out safely for the throw in.

Natasha Lane onto the ball in the middle for Ely sends a useful pass forwards into the right channel for Geovanna Salles, has Treasure Nwanebu up with her the pair exchanging passes before the cross is delivered into the near post claimed cleanly by Spalding goalkeeper, Vickie Foster. Is a big pitch and Spalding look to use the width Annie Vayro putting a diagonal ball out to the right for Emily king breaking forwards, Ely captain, Ellie Cooper across on the cover to close her down the ball out for a throw.

Getting bodies up the pitch from the throw Spalding look to apply pressure to the Ely back line. The ball hooked on from the wing behind for a goal kick. Ivy Lane seeing the ball into her feet on the right for Spalding travels forwards turning into the middle gaining ground, Natasha Lane getting back to close her down put in the challenge. Louisa Harwood playing the ball into Murombo in attack for Ely, holds it up holding off a defender, has Beth Horsfield looking to get up with her left side the ball into her knocked on for Nwanebu, a little too strong Spalding can get it clear.

GOAL! Ivy Lane powering on with the ball into the right wing for Spalding delivers a vicious cross low into the six yard box, Ely goalkeeper, Atlanta Stevenson with a reactive save throwing out a leg to try and divert it away to safety only succeeds it turning it on past her far post into the feet of Spalding’s captain, Phoebe Richards-Reeves who strikes it back it past the keeper into the back of the net to open the scoring 0-1.

Captain, Phoebe Richards-Reeves fires Spalding into the lead (photo credit Keira Thurston)

(photo credit Keira Thurston)

Spalding with the early break through inside the opening 4 minutes, a blow for Ely the last thing the lower placed league side wanted to do was concede an early goal. An open start to the game however both sides a little nervous a few stray passes. The two sides not getting condensed but using the whole pitch, Ely used to playing on it, Spalding looking to stretch their opponents. The ball fired up to Murombo. strong hold up play left side looks to turn on the ball, defender Amber Nieburg close on her getting her leg out to intercept the ball clear into the midfield.

Murombo hooks the ball on up the line for Horsfield to attack on the left flank, Chloe Biggadike coming across from the middle of defence to close her down send the ball out for the throw. Spalding wining the ball get on the move quickly launching a counter attack the ball sent long into the right channel for Constance Onyinah, Stevenson quick to race out of her box to get to the ball first send it clear.

Lively both sides not holding onto the ball for long, Natasha Lane putting it on for Murombo turns it inside for Danni Youngs central attempts to put the ball in behind for Nwanebu making a run in behind the defence, intercepted by Biggadike. Biggadike taking the ball on through the middle soon after pushing forwards tackled by Ellie Cooper as she moves in to close her down. Competitive, the referee having a word with Biggadike as Nicole Krajewska is penalised for handling the ball, Ely winning the free-kick on halfway.

The ball played into the crowd at the top of the area, Youngs getting her head on it looking to lift it up over the defence towards goal, falls short Spalding scrambling it clear. Spalding pushing up as a unit well, Tara Parker pushing on through the middle looking to see the ball into Richards-Reeves racing on down the left, Kerry Dyer staying on her for Ely regaining possession. Nwanebu getting stuck in closing the ball down high up the pitch for Ely, Murombo and Youngs looking to make runs off her, Nieburg cutting the ball out for Spalding.

Quick passing as Krajewska picked out the forwards run of Parker, looks to keep it moving for Onyinah breaking into the area, Ellie Cooper reading the move there to cut the ball out for Ely. Spalding pressing on right side, Ivy Lane linking up with King the ball out for a throw in the corner, dropped into Onyinah, Ellie Cooper close in challenging, no turn, Parker taking over carrying the ball o the by-line before flashing a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Dyer tackling Richards-Reeves as she looks to get onto the end of it. A shot comes in from distance on the angle left side, Stevenson down low to gather behind it all the way.

Ely working hard, stabilising things after conceding early, Murombo seeing the ball into her feet left side, helping it on down the line for Horsfield, King defending for Spalding. Spalding build on the left, Lily Forsyth on for Richards-Reeves who wins her side a corner kick. A beautiful delivery from the corner into the six yard box, dropping far post it was asking to be turned into the back of the net but incredulously no one gets a touch.

Spalding quicker to the 2nd ball look to get forwards with pace the ball fed into the left channel, Onyinah looking to get clear of defender Emma Cooper as they close down the box, Stevenson rushing out to try and close her down, Onyinah gets a shoot past her under pressure from the defender, the ball running wide of the near post.

Ely looking to use Murombo’s good hold up play bring others on to support her, is being closely watched by Nieburg and Biggadike, the former making the tackle. Natasha Lane with time on the ball in the middle fires it into the feet of Horsfield pulling to the right has Murombo ready to receive right corner of the area, Foster quick off her line to slide in and get her gloves around the ball. The open nature of the game could lead to individuals making timely runs at either end but so far the defences are holding form, Ellie Cooper reading the game moving out to close down threats, likewise at the other end Spalding’s defence is discipline moving back and forth as a solid unit.

Ely’s Natasha Lane

Natasha Lane allowed time on the ball central has put a couple of teasing passes on her latest up to Youngs left of the D 25 out can’t quite turn it on into D, for Murombo looking to steal in behind as Nieburg cuts it out. Parker making some good forward runs for Spalding linking up with Krajewska through the middle winning a corner kick on the left. Spalding’s corners a threat another inviting ball dropping in at the far post not attacked reclaimed right side fired in across the face of goal through to the corner taker on the opposite side, blasted back into the mix, Ely get it away to safety.

King on the right for Spalding comes inside combining with Krajewska central she looks to release Ivy lane in behind on the right as she makes a surge to get into the box, Ellie Cooper coming across quickly to tackle, the ball fired back in on goal from distance on the angle claimed by Stevenson. Onyinah with a chance on the left top of the area onto the ball knocking it past the advancing keeper sees it again flash wide at the near post.

A competitive tussle for the ball in the middle between Natasha Lane and Vayro, the latter coming away with it has both Richards-Reeves left and Onyinah central making runs in behind the ball through a little too heavy, Stevenson able to gather. Nieburg up to head the ball clear marking Murombo as Horsfield looks for her with the looping ball from the left.

Ely’s Charliene Murombo

Stevenson not afraid to come racing out to the top of her area moves out sharply to deal with the threat of Onyinah as the striker looks to pulls off Ellie Cooper’s shoulder get into to attack left of goal the keeper diving in to save at her feet. Spalding making a change Molli McCormack entering the game coming on for Ivy Lane. Spalding looking to up it as the first half draws to a close, Vayro on for Krajewska moving left with the ball attempting to player Richards-Reeves, pressure from Dyer, Stevenson advancing to claim the ball.

Spalding’s Annie Vayro

A little rain in the air as Forsyth sees the ball on for Richards-Reeves left wing, Dyer in to close her down the ball out for a throw. The throw into Onyinah left corner outside the box hits it on the turn towards goal, straight at the keeper, Stevenson down behind it to save. Ely working hard in defence getting players back limits the balls up to their attackers, but have so too limited the chances for Spalding. Onyinah taking the ball on from Biggadike pushing on, Harwood on her shoulder forcing her out to the left as Ellie Cooper comes to close the ball down.

Ely’s captain, covering the ground at the back getting to the ball first to clear as Spalding play probing passes into the channels. Spalding making another change with Onyinah picking up a slight knock comes off with Ava Smith coming on. Richards-Reeves enjoying a good contest with Dyer on the right. McCormack adding to the threat coming through the middle linking up well with Parker. Natasha Lane with a diagonal ball into Salles up with Nwanebu on the right looking to force a way in behind to cross, Biggadike supporting Forsyth the ball cleared.

Ely captain, Elie Cooper with Kerry Dyer

Both sides look to have the players to cause problems to the opposing defence if they can just find the right final ball, Natasha Lane lifting on on through the middle, dealt with well by Nieburg heading clear with Murombo and Nwanebu ready to burst in behind either side of her. Spalding winning another corner out on the left, this delivery lifted into the near post, Stevenson through bodies getting a fist in the ball knocked down into the box the snap shot is turned high over the bar.

McCormack linking up with Krajewska central out to Parker left side, Dyer in to close her down for Ely. Spalding with a free-kick deep on their left a good delivery up to the top of the area, dealt with by Ellie Cooper, Back with Richards-Reeves on the left strikes it goal wards, Stevenson down onto it to save at the top of her area. Into the final couple of minutes of the 1st half Horsfield pushing on forcing Nieburg into conceding the throw, form there Ely get a cross in across the top of the area, Murombo up well to get her head on the ball inside the d head it down towards goal, Foster sharp quickly grabbing it up into her gloves even as Nwanebu rushes in on her.

GOAL! A half chance at one end Spalding launch a counter attack to double their lead late in the first half the ball played on down the right flank attacked the cross flashed in high across goal, Stevenson throwing a glove out attempting to get it clear doesn’t get a clean touch the ball dropping down into the area straight to the unmarked McCormack and she adjusts her feet to get the ball back in on goal up over the keeper to score 0-2.

Molli McCormack lifting the ball up over the keeper to score Spalding’s 2nd goal (photo credit Keira Thurston)

Half-time Ely City Women 0-2 Spalding United Women

Virtually the last action of the 1st half Spalding doubling their lead head into the changing rooms 2-0 up at the break. A hammer blow for Ely having worked so hard to compete with their higher league opponents in the 1st half that after conceding a goal inside the opening 4 minutes. Has been an open game a big pitch Ely used to playing on it, Spalding have looked comfortable getting the ball out wide and into the channels, Ely getting players back have defended strongly whilst not over committed too often the other way. Few clear cut chances despite the nature of the contest. A record crowd in attendance for not only Ely City Women but the Women’s League Cup final itself at 326. Spalding with a 2 goal advantage know a 3rd will probably put it beyond Ely, their opponents however are not out of the game yet by any stretch.

The sides out for the 2nd half, Spalding to get the game restarted, making a double change bringing off Krajewska and King to be replaced by Sophie Goodwin and Grace Hill. Phoebe Eyett also on replacing Vayro late in the first half. A probing long ball sent forwards taken buy Stevenson out at the top of her area. Ely with a throw on the left, the ball won back by Spalding launch a rapid counter Forsyth on for Parker linking up with Smith on the left, Ellie Cooper again moving out to close the ball down. A busy start to the 2nd half Nwanebu turning the ball on for Salles left looks to take on Forsyth the full back holding her up.

Danni Youngs and Tara Parker (photo credit Keira Thurston)

Spalding advance right Richards-Reeves over on that flank now on for McCormack who turns it in centrally for Biggadike to run onto 25 yards out her strike charged down by Dyer. Spalding building pressure early in the 2nd half, Richards-Reeves right linking up with Biggadike the ball fired into the near post Parker forwards looking to turn it on for goal putting it straight at the keeper. Hill getting up to support the Spalding attack on the right getting a shot in on the angle past the advancing keeper, Ellie Cooper running back on goal intercepting the ball to keep it out of her goal.

Spalding pushing players on winning a corner on the right, lofted into the near post knocked down in front of the six yard box Harwood back on the line to block a stinging shot the ball hooked clear. Pressure mounting as parker latches onto a loose pass at the back feeding it to Smith left of the D, brings it inside to shoot centrally curling a shot in looking for the inside of the far post, drifts the wrong side. Remains competitive Ely competing for the ball soaking up a little pressure. Ely making a change Tiana O’Hara coming on to join the attack replacing Youngs.

Nwanebu putting the ball into Murombo’s feet back to goal, turns it to Horsfield on the left she attempts to feed it in behind the defence for O’Hara through the middle, Foster with a good starting position alert into close it down and claim at the top of her area. Parker strong looking to hold of Dyer as she attempts to break on into the box, Stevenson always willing to charge forwards out to get hold of the ball at her feet. Ivy Lane back on for Spalding. Biggadike pushed on into the middle now causing a few issues getting up with the attacking players keeping Ely on the defensive.

Spalding’s Tara Parker alongside Ely’s Louisa Harwood

Parker fouled by Ellie Cooper top of the circle the set-piece curled into the right post area, Stevenson getting up well to claim it. The game stretched at times Ely willing to take a few risks get players on to support, Murombo and O’Hara in attack. Nwanebu always busy after the ball, Nieburg throwing out a leg to deny the pass into O’Hara.

GOAL! Stevenson comes racing out to the top right corner of her area try and deny Richards-Reeves as she is played through in behind on the flank the pair coming together as the ball runs past the keeper on for goal, Dyer getting it clear only for the referee to point to the spot, Penalty! Richards-Reeves to take it herself the captain placing the ball on the spot, no messing blasts it home past the keeper before she can react to extend the lead 0-3.

Phoebe Richards-Reeves firing Spalding into a 3 goal lead from the penalty spot (photo credit Keira Thurston)

Spalding adding their 3rd goal midway through the 2nd half, have looked the more likely since the restart. Ely making a change, Christine Cullen coming on to replace Emma Cooper at the back. Horsfield coming on left side getting her side a corner kick, lifted in high defended by Nieburg at the near post behind for a 2nd corner, this one into a similar position cleared upfield. The ball popping about a few tired legs out there. Nieburg defending holding off Murombo as the attacker looks to force her way into the box.

Foster up well to claim a diagonal ball from the left side fired into the area from Natasha Lane. Spalding ringing the changes bringing on fresh legs with a quadruple switch, Forsyth, Biggadike, Parker and Nieburg coming off, on come King, Krajewska, Vayro and Onyinah. Lane and Salles coming off for Ely, Erin Chandler and Kaci Gibson coming on as the game moves into the final 15 minutes. Smith with a good win getting onto the ball sending it out to Richards-Reeves right side from the angle 20 yards out drives her strike into the side netting.

Spalding attacker, Constance Onyinah (photo credit Keira Thurston)

Ivy Lane sending the pass into Richards-Reeves right side played inside for Onyinah right of the D, Cullen lunging in to make the tackle for Ely. Players cramping up a lot of work put in this evening the temperature dropping. Dyer clearing the ball as she cuts out a cross fired into the box from the right. Into the final 10 minutes of the game Ely push players on looking to get something out of the game Murombo into O’Hara pressuring the defence forcing Eyett into conceding a corner kick.

GOAL! The corner delivered into the six yard box from the right lopping in Foster comes to attack it with her fist knocking the ball back out to the right, goes after it attempting to chase it down but is back with the corner taker and clipped back in across the face of goal into a crowd at the far post and turned home by Ellie Cooper to see Ely pull a goal back 1-3.

Ely captain, Ellie Cooper pulling a goal back

Makes things a little nervier for Spalding than they would have like, Ely with their tails up Murombo attacking right back inside for Harwood to strike on the angle 20 yards out right of the D struck across goal Foster gathering at her far post. Murombo into the box looking to press the ball off a throw on the right, a defender looking to see the ball back to the keeper, Foster down to claim it Murombo accidentally catching her a painful blow a pause in play suiting Spalding more than Ely as she receives treatment but is okay to play on back on her feet. Changes for both lane back on for Ely O’Hara off. Smith on for Spalding replacing Vayro.

Play resumes a minute plus 3 added to play Parker driving on with the ball right, Stevenson out to close her down the ball out for a throw. Krajewska with a long ball for Spalding launching a counter up to Onyinah up top, Cullen getting her head on it to deny the threat for Ely. Stevenson positioned top of her area keeps her eye on the ball as it drops out of the floodlights with Onyinah looking to close her down, knocked down well collects on the bounce. Spalding on the attack in the closing seconds Hill on the right from the angle lifting a shot over the advancing keeper sees it fall wide of the near post. The final whistle blows and Spalding win silverware in their debut season in Cambridgeshire winning the league cup beating Ely 3-1.

Full time Ely City Women 1-3 Spalding United Women

Was a much closer contest than some would have predicted, Spalding leading Division One on a strong run taking an early lead, Ely working hard to limit their chances keeping it tight despite the open nature of the game, an entertaining match, played in front of a record crowd, Spalding getting players on better getting a timely goal at the end of the half to lead 2-0 at the break. Began the 2nd half the stronger making changes looking to get that 3rd goal and scored from the penalty spot. Ely put in a shift the Division Two side fighting getting a goal back in the final 10 minutes but Spalding had enough about them to see out the game coming close to scoring a 4th.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as often the case several strong contenders but overall one stands out, both sides playing their part in an intriguing contest. For Ely captain Ellie Cooper won the player of the match in the semi-final and again this evening was strong throughout covering the ground at the back reading the forwards runs and scoring. Natasha Lane with some great passes came close to unlocking the Spalding defence on a coupe of occasions. Kerry Dyer also busy in defence getting her tackles in. For Spalding, Amber Nieburg was on no mood to let anyone get past her at the back, intercepted well and won the ball. Tara Parker making some strong attacking runs getting into the box linking up the attack. Molli McCormack coming on adding to the attack held the ball up and got into some good positions doubling the lead. The award goes to Spalding’s captain, Phoebe Richards-Reeves was a constant threat out on the left and the right driving forwards ready for the ball opened the scoring and powered in the penalty to put Spalding 3-0 up.

Phoebe Richards-Reeves player of the match (photo credit Keira Thurston)

Congratulations to Spalding on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup.

Spalding United Women 2025/26 Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup winners

Another enjoyable evening at Ely City FC’s Demcom Stadium. An open and entertaining final good to see it well supported. Ely can be proud a 2nd successive cup final and have competed strongly on both. Spalding lifting the trophy a great achievement in their debut season and still all to play for the league itself and a county cup final. I have enough games to cover as it is but I haven’t done a Lincolnshire County Cup Final for years I am tempted to make the trip to Boston on the 1st of May. My thanks to Chris Abbott at Cambs FA and both sides for their help this evening. Keira Thurston too for letting her use some of her pictures in the report. Will add a few more from Ely when I get them.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Monthly Archives: April 2026

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women v Harpenden Town Women

Sunday 12th April

Hertfordshire Women’s Senior Challenge Cup Final

Cup Final Special – Ware United Ladies v Berkhamsted Ladies

Sunday 12th April

Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy Final

Cup Final Special – Ely City Women v Spalding United Women

Thursday 9th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final