Monthly Archives: May 2026

Cup Final Special – Aylsham FC Women v Costessey Sports Ladies

Sunday 17th May

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

Moving onto the 2nd game from today’s NWGFL Women’s Finals, Day the League Cup final itself, another all Division One line-up with Aylsham FC Women into their 2nd successive League Cup final taking on Costessey Sports Ladies, finishing as runners-up in Division One this season.

All the teams across the 3 Divisions competing in Norfolk playing in the League Cup with those knocked out in the earlier rounds going on to contest for the League Plate won by UEA FC Women this morning. A busy weekend for the NWGFL with all the girls finals taking place on Friday and Saturday.

The Norfolk Women’s League Cup

Aylsham FC Women enjoying their best campaign in Division One last season finishing runners up in both the league and league cup. Have lost a few experienced players during this campaign through various reasons including injury and pregnancy, needing to call up a few of their 7’s players at times, winning as many as they have lost to record a 6th placed finish. Their best form saved for the cup competitions a good run in the county cup followed by getting into a 2nd successive league Cup final, players returning and young talent coming on. Started the season strong with 5 wins from 6, come into the final with the opposite record and know they have a tough test on their hands with Costessey today. Shelley Woods still going strong leading the goal scoring charts finding the back of the net for 16 goals this season. Sophie George also into double figures netting 13 so far with Olivia Baker also amongst the goals with 8.

Costessey Sports Ladies are very much as side on the rise, have enjoyed a memorable season in Division One, securing runners-up spot losing just 2 league games. Knocked out higher league opposition to progress to the semi-finals of the County Cup and go on to reach their first senior final in the League Cup. Ambitious building one a strong core of youthful talent. 14 wins and 2 draws the only defeats in the league coming at the hands of defending champions Lowestoft (were Bungay Town Ladies last season). Got the better of Lowestoft however in the cup to advance to the final. Goals throughout the side with Thea hackney and Chloe Moulton joint top scorers with 18 goals to their names, Alisha Juby right on their tails has 17. Chelsea Brister has 9 and Kyara Everett and Hannah Campbell both have 8 each.

Road to the Final

Aylsham FC Women awarded a home win in the 1st Round of the league Cup with the new incarnation of Bungay Town Ladies not quite ready. Division Three opposition for Costessey Sports Ladies too with a trip to Long Stratton Women and having hit the ground running with a 12-0 win in the league on the opening day repeated the feat in the cup, Kyara Everett firing home a hat-trick, there were braces for Chloe Moulton, Chelsea Brister and Layla Watts, plus a goal each for Abbigail Tate, Grace Wall and Aimee Dickson.

Into the 2nd Round, Aylsham making the trip over to the east coast to play Division Two side, Martham FC Ladies, a brace from Olivia baker, along with a goal apiece for Shelley Woods, Marseilles Will and Sophie George seeing the game won 5-2. Costessey away too in the 2nd round playing fellow Division One side, Bure Valley Women, the hosts scoring twice, Costessey hit back with 4 to advance to the quarter finals, Hannah Campbell, Thea hackney and Alisha Juby amongst the goals.

Into the last 8 of the League Cup, both sides paired against Division Two opposition, Aylsham away taking on Beccles Town Ladies a close game the visitors winning by a single goal to clinch a 3-2 victory, Sophie George, Olivia Baker and Rachel Bussey all on the scoresheet. Costessey heading along the A47 to play Brundall Bolts Women, a brace for Poppy Lyons plus a goal each for Hannah Campbell and Kyara Everett seeing Costessey leading 4-0 at the break, no more goals in the 2nd period as they booked their spot in the semi-finals.

An all Division One line-up in the League Cup semi-finals, Aylsham at home playing KLSC FC Women, goals from Rachel Bussey and Sophie George securing a 2-1 win and Aylsham’s successive League Cup final appearance. Costessey at home taking on Lowestoft Town Ladies the visitors leading by a single goal at the break, Costessey came back to level midway through the 2nd half Thea Hackney scoring, that sending the game into extra-time, Costessey getting their noses in front late on through Hannah Campbell, who went on to add another goal in the closing stages to send Costessey into the final for the 1st time.

Youngs Park hosting the NWGFL finals weekend, the main pitch in superb condition, the barbeque open serving burgers the clubhouse bar and kitchen open too serving hot food and drink. The clouds hanging around but the threat of any rain minimal.

Aylsham FC Women starting XI – Fawnee Ansbro, Carly Allum, Katie Garner, Charlotte Crane, Sophie Buckley, Cayla Brown, Shelley Woods (C), Felicity Hunton, Rachel Bussey, Vicky Lubbock & Sophie George. Subs – Tegan Lusher, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Olivia Wenn & Ellie Snowling.

Aylsham FC Women

Costessey Sports Ladies starting XI – Kelly Fox, Sydney Brown, Olivia Smith, Phoebe Pierpoint, Alyssia Baldock, Abbi Nobbs, Chelsea Brister (C), Holly Williams, Thea Hackney, Alisha Juby and Chloe Moulton. Subs – Grace Wall, Jenny Moore, Hannah Campbell, Kyara Everett & Mia Finnermore.

Costessey Sports Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes then a period of extra-time will follow by a penalty shootout if required.

Members of the NWGFL committee leading the two sides out onto the pitch, Dan Knowles referring today’s League Cup final assisted by Elise Carroll-Mileham and James Sutherland. Costessey with a good sized squad having 5 to call on from the bench, Aylsham naming 4 on their bench some returning from injury, Olivia Baker having played in all of Aylsham’s matches this season not available for the final. The threat of a shower passing prior to kick-off, it’s Costessey to get the League Cup final under way wearing their away colours, light blue shirts with navy sleeves, navy shorts and socks. Aylsham Lined up opposite in their home colours, orange shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back into defence, sent back into a congested middle, Aylsham getting it cleared over the top, Sophie George giving chase, Kelly Fox out to close it down the goalkeeper putting the ball out for a throw on the right.

Aylsham looking to be positive at the start George seeing the ball down heading for the by-line but is dispossessed as she looks to flick the ball on into the box. George linking up with twin sister Vicky Lubbock in attack exchanging passes Alyssa Baldock getting a foot on the ball to get it away for Costessey. A few nerves at the start from Costessey passes rushed but the more experienced amongst the squad calming things down, Abbi Nobbs looking to find Alisha Juby as she makes a run through the middle, Sophie Buckley intercepting the ball at the back for Aylsham.

Aylsham captain Shelley Woods playing the ball right into Rachel Bussey forwards for George in attack winning Aylsham a corner. Taken short back up the line the cross in from deep long to the far post, Felicity Hunton making the run to try and attack it has too much to do can only glance it wide for a goal kick. Costessey getting the ball up to Thea Hackney on the right, Carly Allum putting it out for a throw. Hackney collects it into her feet, turning infield sending a cross into the box, claimed by Aylsham keeper, Fawnee Ansbro.

Costessey’s Thea Hackney

Two contrasting side, Costessey’s group younger lively looking to get the ball on, Aylsham with a wealth of experience on the pitch reading the ball getting it forwards with George and Lubbock working the channels in attack. Sydney Brown charging down the ball as George drives inside from the right the ball skipping up Fox on hand to get it away to safety. Holly Williams providing the outlet on the right getting hold of the ball for Costessey charging forwards her cross curled in on goal onto the roof of the net.

Olivia Smith closing Lubbock down as she looks to get the ball on down the left as Katie Garner wins it at the back. Probing balls played forwards, Charlotte Crane challenging Chloe Moulton in attack as captain Chelsea Brister sends the ball up through the middle for Costessey. Hackney bringing the ball infield from the left whipping a ball in across the box, Garner heading it clear for Aylsham.

Costessey captain, Chelsea Brister

Brister seeing the ball into the feet of Phoebe Pierpoint out to Moulton moving right clips the ball in towards goal over Ansbro’s crossbar. A good tempo to the game players rushing in to close the other down, Lubbock fouling Williams Costessey with the free-kick right of the circle, Nobbs to send the set-piece up into the box, players lined up to attack the far post the ball in Aylsham winning the header away to the left for a throw in.

A long throw helped on across the top of the area Costessey seeing two snap shots blocked in quick succession. Woods sending the ball over the top of the Costessey defence pressed high, George running in behind central, Fox out of her area to close her down the ball charged down turned out to the right Bussey taking it on her angled shot wide past the far post, a nick on the way through the corner awarded. Played long into the area Hackney back to defend clearing the ball sent up to Williams on the right bursting forwards her cross low into the near post, Ansbro has the angle covered.

The game end to end at times Aylsham with a throw on the left, George lining up with Lubbock played in central Woods helping it out to Bussey right side, Brown in to challenge for the ball. Garner onto the ball left inside the Costessey half sends a diagonal ball into the box, Woods attacking it looking to flick the ball goal wards off her heel lacks the power to trouble Fox the keeper collecting the ball.

Aylsham’s Katie Garner

Up the other end Ansbro out quickly to the top of her area to save at the feet of Williams as she looks to see the ball into her feet right of the D the ball cleared away to the left, the cross swung back into the area, Ansbro recovering back inside her six yard box to lay claim to the ball. Crane across to defend against Williams as she gets free into space on the right. Williams staying down after the tackle Costessey needing to make a change sending on Hannah Campbell.

Costessey winning a corner on the left as Brown gets up the pitch to support Hackney. A vicious delivery attacked at the near post flicked on across goal no one attacking it at the far post out for the goal kick. Cayla Brown in to make the tackle for Aylsham as Smith looks to get on up the right for Costessey. Allum pulling Moulton down as Juby looks to send the ball into her the free kick awarded, 25 yards plus out, hit in towards goal, safely through to the keeper. Aylsham strait on the counter attack the ball played out to George on the left keeping the ball in pace taking the ball on turning into the area holding off Smith as she shapes to shoot falling back pulls her shot wide of the near post.

A little physical, Aylsham asking a few questions up top both George and Lubbock running at the defence. Lubbock pressing right linking up with Bussey for Aylsham the later looking to force her way into the box slowed down by Nobbs, George looking to keep the ball alive, Costessey getting numbers back inside their box to successfully defend the cross. Lubbock closing in on the right post as Aylsham mount an attack on the right, the ball angled in to the attacker looks to knock it on through to goal, places it wide of the post.

Vicky Lubbock

Pierpoint combines with Moulton as Costessey attack on the right the flag up though as Moulton squares it into the middle for Brister. 25 minutes played in the first half. George attacking for Aylsham on the right forces her way inside pulling off her marker to get a shot away on the angle low save by Fox and cleared away to the left for a throw in the corner.

GOAL! Players up into the box a garner sends the throw in long headed on across goal at the near post dropping to Bussey at the far post to attack and turn over the line for fire Aylsham into the lead 1-0.

Rachel Bussey congratulated as she sends Aylsham into the lead

Brister finding Hackney up on the left from the restart the winger collecting the ball into her feet checking inside her cross intercepted by Crane. A pause in play while the linesman makes repairs to his flag a chance for both sides to have a breather take on fluids. Play resumes Brister linking up with Pierpoint the ball sent on up top to Juby in attack, Crane tackling for Aylsham. Costessey appealing as they attack up the right side no free-kick but are awarded the corner kick.

GOAL! Have been practicing their corner routines a great ball played in long across the area players lining up to attack it beyond the far post, Hackney rising highest to knock the ball down back in towards goal and sends it past the keeper to level up the scores 1-1.

Thea Hackney scoring from the corner to level the scores

Costessey back on level terms just 6 minutes after falling behind. Aylsham finding George on the right battle her way on to win a corner kick. Fired into the near side hitting a defender square in the stomach behind for a 2nd corner. Put into the near post again Nobbs getting her head on the ball to turn out away too the left. George looking to volley the ball back in towards goal left side sending a high ball looping over the bar.

Smith taking the ball on for Costessey on for Pierpoint right side, Brown across to close her down the ball out for a throw. both sides fancying their chances of adding another goal, Hackney a threat on the left cutting inside pushing the ball inside for Juby, Brown getting a foot to clear for Aylsham. George getting hold on the ball on the left down the line cut inside for Woods intercepted and behind for another corner. A high ball played into the box, half cleared falling to Brown top of the area played back to George on the left sending the in swinging cross back into the box players in to attack it however the offside flag halts proceedings.

Cayla Brown

Fox well placed to gather the ball at the top of her area as Aylsham thread it in behind for Lubbock to chase. Play turned around quickly by both sides, some robust challenges the tempo more often than not leading to a mis-timed tackle. Hackney surging up the right flank her cross won by Crane. Hackney sending another ball in across the top of the area,, Juby attacking it near side driven wide. The same pair linking up again with hackney delivering another teasing ball in across the six yard box, Juby rising to attack it centrally lifting her headed attempt over the bar.

Costessey getting a head of steam up towards the end of the first half Hackney the main threat taking the ball on inside Allum, Crane across to close her down put in the blocking tackle. Juby seeing the ball from Campbell into her feet turning it out wide to Hackney, shoots on the angle the ball low into the near post gathered by the keeper. Pierpoint with a strike from distance dropping wide of the right post. The first half ending with the scores level.

Half-time Aylsham FC Women 1-1 Costessey Sports Ladies

An intriguing first half much closer than predicted, Aylsham getting into to close the ball down defending their 18 yard line well seeing the ball into their attackers, Lubbock and George working the channels stretching the Costessey defence. Finding the opening goal. Costessey looking a little nervous at the start son settling getting hold of the ball Hackney and Williams the outlets on the wings. Taking the ball on levelling up the scores soon after falling behind, were building some momentum towards the end of the first half. Alot put into that half by both sides will be interesting to see if it can be maintained in the 2nd half all square all to play for.

Costessey out early for the 2nd half conducting their team talk in front of their dugout preparing to make some positional changes for the 2nd half. Grace Wall and Williams back on taking up positions on the right on for Brown and Moulton. Aylsham making a change as they return for the 2nd period Ellie Snowling on for Garner at left back. Aylsham getting the 2nd 45 underway the ball played back into their defence, Cost with 3 up top now looking to press. A throw won on the left played into Campbell, Crane moving in to close her down.

Snowling getting the challenge in on Williams over on the right as Wall sends the ball on up the wing. Costessey making a bright start to the 2nd half the ball in across the area from the right, Hackney running in can’t keep it in play out past the far post for a goal kick. Allum defending for Aylsham diving in too deny Hackney as she looks to drive on with the ball at her feet on the left.

Aylsham’s Ellie Snowling

Brister into Williams right her cross turned behind for a corner kick. The ball fired in central top of the six yard box the shot flashed in on goal blocked in the line by Allum covering the far post. Crane into charge down a 2nd attempt as Aylsham clear their lines. No foul on Juby as she almost escapes in behind as Campbell sends the ball inside to her from the left. Aylsham soaking up more pressure in the 2nd half, can’t get the players up to support, Lubbock and George in attack. George strong on the ball getting in off the left, tackled well by Baldock.

Costessey’s Olivia Smith

Williams onto the ball bursting forward for Costessey in the right channel, running into Buckley the defender playing it out for a throw on the right. Aylsham win the ball back in the middle Hunton on for Woods to release Bussey wide on the right up the line fires a dangerous ball in across the face of the Costessey goal, out past the far post for a goal kick. Juby breaking away with the ball on Costessey’s right sends an angled shot in low to the near post claimed by Ansbro.

Aylsham goalkeeper, Fawnee Ansbro

Ansbro beating down another long range strike fired in towards her goal, the ball knocked forward, Allum getting it away in the nick of time before Juby can run onto it. George with the ball at her feet powers her way into the box before giving away the foul. Lubbock back to defend on Juby as Campbell looks to pick her out through the middle. George get pulled down up the other end giving Aylsham a free-kick top of the circle. Bussey to play the ball into the area aiming for the far post no one getting a touch though as it races out of play.

20 minutes into the 2nd half, Costessey lively with 3 up top, Aylsham winning a corner on the right, the delivery curled in on goal over the bar. Hunton taking on the strike from distance picking out the keeper. Remained physical in the middle, Allum and Brown with some strong tackling. Hackney seeing the ball forwards as Costessey counter on the left, under challenge form Allum gets the ball into the box, Crane getting her head on it knocking the ball up and over her on towards goal. Ansbro rising to claim it high.

Aylsham midfielder, Felicity Hunton

George has Woods up ahead of her on the left as Aylsham attack, Wall in with the challenge the ball out for a throw.

GOAL! Costessey get the ball up the pitch quickly Williams carrying on into the left channel sending the ball in behind the Aylsham defence to see Juby beat the offside trap and race in behind, Ansbro coming out to the top of her area to close her down, the attacker takes the ball wide of her moving right into the area to send the ball on into the empty net beyond 1-2.

Costessey mob Alisha Juby as she sends them into the lead

Alisha Juby

Costessey taking the lead in the League Cup final with 25 minutes played in the 2nd half. Costessey making a change with Brown returning to the pitch replacing Smith. Woods controlling the ball in the middle played into Cayla Brown to her right 25 yards out takes on the strike curled into Fox at the near post. Hackney continues to be a threat on the left of attack, Buckley across to close her down send the ball out for the throw. Williams onto the ball pace breaking on forward for Hackney left side, Allum sliding in on her to deny the cross.

Holly Williams on the attack for Costessey

Aylsham defender, Sophie Buckley

Costessey full of energy still in attack getting at the Aylsham back line even as their opponents risk pushing up to get more support into their attacking players. Woods defending a Costessey send the long pass forwards the ball out to the right Snowling closing Williams down, snaps back to take the ball inside, Buckley stopping her cross the ball behind for a corner kick. Curled into the box Aylsham win it back look to counter, Williams quick to get across and win the ball back for Costessey

GOAL! Costessey getting hold of the ball in the middle Moore linking up with Williams the pass through the middle to put Juby in behind the defence nipping in to get the ball before the advancing Ansbro to strike it past the keeper into the open goal beyond to open up a 2 goal lead 1-3.

Alisha Juby firing Costessey into a 3-1 lead

Aylsham making a double change with 10 minutes left to play, Garner back on along with Olivia Wenn replacing Woods and Allum. Williams run of running attacking for Costessey on the right coming inside towards the top of the back the pass intended for Juby cut out. Hackney with the ball driving inside to get into the box wrapping her foot around the ball, striking it goal wards, Ansbro saving down to beat the ball away from her goal.

Costessey defender, Alyssia Baldock

Costessey looking dangerous to towards the end of the game, bringing on subs to keep the energy levels up, Cayla Brown getting the ball up to Lubbock coming inside from the left, Baldock into challenge for Costessey. Kyara Everett on for Costessey in place of Williams with a little over 5 minutes to go. The substitute played into space clear on the left, Crane getting across slowing her down, putting in the tackle to win the ball back.

Charlotte Crane

Campbell pushing on with the ball at her feet for Costessey central passed into Everett moving into the left channel, Crane lunging in to get the ball for Aylsham. Played out to the left, Moore closing the ball down to keep Costessey on the front foot on for Hackney right side the cross cut back into the top of the area, Campbell unleashing a strike from 18 yards striking the crossbar and over. The 90 minutes up into stoppage time Costessey sending on their final sub, Mia Finnermore coming on to replace Nobbs.

Everett forcing a superb save from Ansbro as she runs onto the ball sent on into the left channel, cutting back to get into the box, gets the ball onto her right foot striking the ball in with pace rising towards goal Ansbro throwing and arm up to her right to turn the ball behind for the corner kick. Another threatening delivery in across the six yard box, attacked the defenders covering both posts blocking the ball.

Costessey busy younger sides tend not to run the ball into the corner late in a game, intent on attacking Crane into make the tackle on Everett as she surges into space on the left. Brister coming off late on for Costessey, Pierpoint back on. Tempers fraying towards the end, the referee calming thing’s down, Costessey with the free-kick, Hackney off, Moulton on with seconds left to play Campbell cutting the ball out as Aylsham make one last effort to get the ball forwards and that’s it the final whistle blow and Costessey win the League Cup on their debut in the final.

Full time Aylsham FC Women 1-3 Costessey Sports Ladies

Aylsham forcing Costessey into a change in formation in the 2nd half going 4-3-3, saw them show more thrust in attack Williams and Hackney strong on the flanks Juby lively in the middle the front three caused problems. Able to rotate their substitutes too kept fresh legs on the pitch did better at stopping Aylsham getting the ball into their own attacking players kept the pressure on Juby put clear to fire Costessey into the lead adding a 2nd to put them into a excellent position going into the final 10 minutes of the match, creating further chances one off the bar and a couple of excellent saves from Ansbro keeping the score down, Aylsham tiring held out for 70 minutes struggling to get any meaningful pressure themselves disappointed in the end to miss out in another final, but this season seeing something of a transition within the squad will come back all the stronger next season. Costessey certainly a club on the rise League Cup winners on top of a runners-up finish in Division One assembling a talented squad there’s more to come.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Tough to single out an individual player great performances across the pitch from both sides. Firstly for Aylsham, Charlotte Crane was excellent in defence getting stuck in to win the ball, cutting out crosses and closing players down throughout. Felicity Hunton with a disciplined game in the middle winning the ball keeping Aylsham on the front foot especially in the first half as the attackers looked to apply pressure, Up top Sophie George and Vicky Lubbock worked hard to chase the ball down getting into the channels and creating chances might have added more goals on another day. For Costessey the energy levels were excellent all game, two goals from Alisha Juby to seal the win lead the line well taking her opportunities when they came. Holly Williams lively attacking on the right and coming inside more in the 2nd half, a ready outlet taking the ball on linking up with her fellow attackers. Phoebe Pierpoint might have gone more unnoticed in the match but did well getting about the pitch chasing the ball and finding pockets of space to receive the ball. The award goes to Thea Hackney a constant threat on the left always looking for the ball driving at players looking to get into the box take on a shot or set up a teammate, scoring the equaliser.

Costessey changing into their regular home colours before the presentation.

Costessey Sports Ladies 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s League Cup winners

Congratulations to Costessey Sports Ladies on winning the 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s League Cup and clinching 2nd spot in Division One.

Another enjoyable NWGFL Women’s Finals Day, congratulation too to Gorleston Rangers Ladies on winning the 7’s League Cup Final. Thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups. Thanks too to all at the NWGFL committee for your assistance today and all the hard work you put in throughout the season. The cup finals almost over for me one more to go, the season’s almost done.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves v UEA FC Women

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Sunday 17th May

Norfolk Women’s League Plate Final

An early start for another finals day, this time from Norfolk, heading over to Aylsham FC’s Young Park, to watch two matches, first up the Norfolk Women’s League Plate Final, a strong line up for this one with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves taking on UEA FC Women for the trophy, finishing level on points in 3rd and 4th Division One.

The sides knocked out of the early rounds of the League Cup itself going on to compete for the League Plate, the draw sometimes sending a strong side or two into the latter competition, usually making those sides favourites to reach the final, a good example being last weekends ERWFL League Plate final between Premier Division sides, Wroxham and Haringey themselves losing out in the early rounds of their league cup competition. Nevertheless nothing can be taken for granted and any shot at silverware is never taken lightly.

The NWGFL League Plate

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves are the current holders of the NWGFL League Plate, beating KLSC FC Women last season to lift the trophy. Ending up back in the competition this season after defeat to Lowestoft Town Ladies in the 1st round of the League Cup a tough draw, didn’t let that affect them at all as they went on to fight a strong campaign in Division One losing just 2 of their 18 matches record a 4th placed finish in the league pipped to 3rd on goal difference by today’s opponents. 10 wins and 6 draws have been amongst the potential title challengers all season.

Becky Waters the top scorer for Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves, netting 29 goals from just 10 appearances. Have a strong squad with a good blend of youthful talent and experience at this level and the ERWFL above to call upon. Goals throughout the side, Emilia Kerby and Lucy Kean both into double figures on 11 and 10 goals respectfully, while Sophie Jermy has 7 goals to her name and midfielder, Alice Ladbrooke 6.

UEA FC Women (University of East Anglia) have been managed by ex-Norwich captain, Magen Todd this campaign. Have grown stronger as the season progressed, winning twice as many as they lost, with 7 wins coming in their last 8 league matches to see them push on up the table and pip Mulbarton to 3rd spot in the Division One table. A university side have a mixture of players studying from around the country and others with useful experience of the league to bolster the squad.

Like Mulbarton losing out to Lowestoft early on in the League Cup to compete in the Plate, not only going on to reach the final of this competition but also represent the NWGFL in the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. Nyanzobe Fundikira leading the goal scoring charts for UEA with 9 to her name, Lashay Moses and Lily Jones one behind both on 8. Contrasting results in the league between the pair, Mulbarton emerging 3-2 winners at home back in November. UEA convincing winners in the return fixture in March winning at home 5-0. This will Todd’s final game in charge of UEA, will be aiming to end on a high.

Road to the Final

A home win awarded to Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves and a bye for UEA FC Women in the 1st Round of the Plate saw both progress without kicking a ball. Mulbarton drawn at home to play Division Three newcomers Dersingham Rovers Women in the 2nd Round a clear gulf between the sides as Mulbarton ran rampant in front of goal, Becky Waters on target for a double hat-trick. Emilia Kerby also with a hat-trick, Charlotte Groves and Sophie Jermy both grabbing a brace with a goal each for Alice Ladbrooke and Isabella Fitchew in a 15-2 win. UEA drawn away to Shrublands Ladies who would go on to become Division Two Champions, the Division One side coming out on top to win the match 3-1.

Into the quarter finals, Mulbarton at home playing fellow Division One side, Waveney FC Ladies, whom they had beaten away from home 5-0 in the league the weekend before. Same result this time around to see Mulbarton advance to the semi-finals, Lucy Kean with a brace plus goals from Waters, Ladbrooke and Jermy. UEA away to another Division Two side in the last 8, Martham FC Women, Karolina Kowalczyk on target for UEA with a brace along with Nyanzobe Fundikira, goals too for Sofia Odell, Lashay Moses and Abigail Crawley-Trice to see UEA into the semi-finals courtesy of a 7-1 win.

Mulbarton at home for their Plate semi-final taking on Division Tw title challengers, Hickling Ladies, a high scoring encounter this one with 9 goals shared between the sides, 3 for Hickling, however Mulbarton found the back of the net for 6 goals to book their place in a successive final with Rebecca Waters firing in 5 goals plus one for Maisie Palmer-Smith. UEA away again in their semi-final taking on fellow Division One side, Bure Valley Ladies, A comfortable win in the finish with Melly Bungay, Nyanzobe Fundikira, Addison Gregory and Sofia Odell al scoring in a 4-0 win.

Youngs Park the venue for today’s women’s finals the 11’s Cup and Plate plus the final of the 7’s league Cup between FC Viking & Valkyries Women and Gorleston Rangers Women. Hosting the NWGFL Final weekend for the past few season’s is a top class facility featuring a superb main grass pitch, beside the large clubhouse the bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drink. The newly build 3g pitch beyond plus numerous practice pitches. The barbeque also on handling all the burger demand. The Offside Trust also having a stand raising awareness and offering support to survivors of abuse within football and other sports. The forecast hopefully being right a hint of rain possible but hopefully not and the dark cloud dotted about will blow over otherwise a pleasant day for the finals.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves starting XI – Kirstie Andrews, Isabelle Fitchew, Emma Farmer, Evie Spalding, Steph Leek, Alice Ladbrooke (C), Naomi Cooper, Florence Martin, Sienna Gilman, Lucy Ken & Lauren Baxter. Subs – Aneliese Smith, Megan Anderton, Becky Waters, Emilia Kerby & Brooke Ashby.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves

UEA FC Women starting XI – Alexandra Azotova (C), Abigail Crawley-Trice, Kara Wayman, Addison Gregory, Ellen Piggott, Evie Bloom, Jess Harper, Sofia Odell, Amber Goddard, Nyanzobe Fundikira & Lashay Moses. Subs – Melly Bungay, Neha Mann, Avery Lyon, Leah Edwards & Freya Kennedy.

UEA FC Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes a period of extra-time will followed and if required a penalty shoot-out.

Ryan Starkey referring today’s League Plate final, both sides with 5 to call upon from the bench, Addison Gregory fresh from keeping goal for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women at Carrow Road in the County Cup final back in her regular defensive outfield position. It’s UEA to get the final underway kicking off the first half wearing yellow coloured shirts with navy across the top and sleeves, navy coloured shorts and socks, Mulbarton lined up opposite wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played short into the midfield rolled forwards Mulbarton quick to close it down congested centrally, UEA manage to get a diagonal ball out to the right flank, Amber Goddard looking to pull clear, the offside flag halting her advance.

UEA looking to press the ball early on little progress made by either side as they are squeezed in possession, a throw for UEA high on the right, striker, Lashay Moses looking to get the ball down drive towards the area, shaping to shoot the ball charged down by Mulbarton defender, Steph Leeks the ball deflected away for a corner on the left. The ball curled into the six yard box headed clear.

Mulbarton look to get on down the left, Isabelle Fitchew linking up with Florence martin and attacker, Lucy Kean, the pass inside for Martin, attempts to thread it in behind for Lauren Baxter, too much on it safely through to UEA goalkeeper and captain, Alexandra Azotova. Abigail Crawley-Trice pushing up from the back on the right for UEA looking to link up with Moses as she turns the ball on up the line, Fitchew can see it out for the goal kick.

Mulbarton’s Florence Martin

Mulbarton press on the right the cross fired in long across the six yard box, kept in by Naomi Cooper far side cuts it back in across goal a glancing header taking it wide of the opposite post for a corner on the right. Played into the near post area turned on by Mulbarton captain, Alice Ladbrooke towards the top of the area, UEA’s defence charging the incoming shot down, the ball not cleared another attempt stabbed up over the crossbar.

Kara Wayman getting up well on UEA’s left wing combining passes with Sofia Odell taking the ball on striking it on the angle from 25 yards out striking the near post and out behind for a goal kick. Cooper and Ladbrooke exchanging passes as Mulbarton build through the middle the ball fed in behind, Baxter pulling off the defence giving chase, a good starting position from Azotova sees her down ready to receive the ball into her gloves just inside her box.

UEA’s Jess Harper with Mulbarton’s Lauren Baxter

Kean seeing the ball down off of her chest from a throw in on the left looking to turn lift a ball into the box, headed clear by UEA’s Ellen Piggott. The game fairly even open to a degree, UEA a little too tentative at the back inviting a little pressure as Mulbarton press. Moses keeping the ball in on the right powering up the line moving inside her ball fired into the box blocked turned behind for a corner kick. The delivery curled in towards goal just over the bar onto the roof of the net.

Nyanzobe Fundikira i between Florence Martin and Alice Ladbroke

Baxter seeing the ball into her feet turning to release Kean wide on the left taking the ball on, Piggott sliding in to make the challenge. Mulbarton quick to win it back the through ball again has too much weight on it. Ladbrooke with a pop from range as Baxter lays the ball back into her path all of 30 yards out the strike wide of the left post. Ladbrooke and Cooper linking up well in the middle for Mulbarton, Ladbrooke finding the attackers with her passes.

Mulbarton captain, Alice Ladbrooke

GOAL! UEA looking a threat on the counter, Goddard right and Odell left providing passing options, it’s the latter that sees the ball played into her path on the left making a burst to get into the box, Mulbarton goalkeeper, Kirstie Andrews rushing out too slide in at the corner of her box to try and close her down charging the ball down but not away Odell takes it wide of her and keeps her composure to send the ball on towards the empty net 0-1.

Sofia Odell attacking from the left about to fire UEA into the lead

UEA with the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, Mulbarton looking for an immediate reply get a corner up on the right. Sent in towards the near post, Azotova down on it sharply to save, the defence clearing it away to the left. Kean doing well to keep the ball in on the left for Mulbarton gets in behind to deliver a cross into the six yard box the ball gloved down into the ground by Azotova and claimed.

Mulbarton winning a free-kick out on halfway to the right, players up as it is delivered in towards the top of the area, Ladbrooke looking to scooping it up over the defence, blocked but not cleared played across the top of the box to the left, Cooper looking to attack it left of the D, comes off the worst as she collides with Piggott but the ball is deflected out behind for a corner kick, Cooper picking herself up.

Lashay Moses sending the ball forwards for UEA

A in swinging ball in from the left defended by UEA’s Moses. Mulbarton busy looking to close the ball down frustration from Cooper as the free-kick goes against her. Goddard taking the ball on from Jess Harper out to the right sees her cross claimed by Andrews. Competitive all over the pitch Nyanzobe Fundikira getting on through the middle, closed down by Ladbrooke and Cooper. Mulbarton getting on up the left winning a throw, Kean back to Fitchew to deliver a cross into the near post cleared by Piggott.

Both sides asking questions Mulbarton getting players on well, UEA looking dangerous on the counter, the ball not wit either for long, Moses with a good tackle to dispossess Cooper. Odell and Goddard swapping flanks for UEA. Bloom cutting out Ladbrooke’s diagonal ball as she looks to pick out Kean on the right. Azotova putting a high ball flung in from deep on the right behind for a corner at her near post. The corner played in towards goal turned inside at the near post, attacked by Baxter, blocked comes back to Ladbrooke, fired back into the mix, UEA with plenty back inside their six yards box the shot blocked the ball cleared up to the left winning a throw.

Mulbarton’s Lucy Kean

Harper closing down Cooper as she looks to take the ball on up Mulbarton’s right. Piggott with a timely interception inside the D, as Martin looks to put Baxter in behind for Mulbarton. Cooper receiving the ball of a throw on the left sends a 20 yard strike over the bar as Piggott slides in with the challenge. Martin through the middle for Mulbarton sends the angled pass out to Gilman on the right, Wayman getting across her path to see the ball out for a throw.

Taking the ball inside from the right, Baxter sees her 25 yard blast charged down the ball deflected back out to the right gathered by Gilman her cross turned behind by Wayman at the near post for a corner kick. Lively Moses fighting to bring the ball on from the back for UEA up the right for Odell, Farmer defending for Mulbarton. Play turned around Mulbarton pouring players on Baxter linking up with Kean in attack the ball fed into the right channel for Gilman, her strike charged down by Gregory as UEA’s defence gets back behind the ball.

UEA finding themselves under a little pressure Harper getting the ball into Fundikira looks to pick out Odell on the right, turns inside, Farmer closing her down. Moses going in a little too strong with a tackle the referee calming things down as the first half draws to a close. Mulbarton up on the left for a throw into Baxter, battling to keep possession into Ladbrooke her ball on deflected of a defender for a corner on the left.

GOAL! Players up from the back as the corner is whipped in with pace into the near post Fitchew running in too attack as Azotova goes to collect the ball instead knocked on across the face of goal dropping loose at the far post, Baxter free to attack it stabbing the ball over the line wheeling away in celebration as she levels the scores for Mulbarton 1-1.

Lauren Baxter getting Mulbarton back on level terms

Crawley-Trice clearing the ball at the back as Mulbarton’s Cooper and Ladbrooke bring the ball on through the middle. Cooper on for Martin pulling right, her cross blocked by Wayman, Gilman back on the ball played in central Baxter and Kean both seeing attempts at goal blocked by Bloom and Piggott. Crawley-Trice pressing high up with Odell in the closing moments of the first half for UEA, Farmer doing the defending seeing the cross out for a throw.

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves 1-1 UEA FC Women

The two sides heading back across the pitch into the changing rooms, drawing 1-1 at the break. Has been a competitive first half, the sides close as their league standings show. UEA taking the lead inside 10 minutes through Sofia Odell. Have looked dangerous on the counter, a little tentative at the back risking short passes as Mulbarton press well have gotten players on in advanced positions, little room in behind as UEA’s defence drops back. Built pressure late in the half winning corners and capitalising to find the equaliser through Florence Martin. Certainly no clues as to which way this game will go 2nd half, Mulbarton finding a bit of momentum towards the end of the first half will be interesting to see if they can carry it into the 2nd period.

Both sides making changes at the start of the 2nd half, Becky Waters on up top for Mulbarton replacing Fitchew. Emilia Kerby on too replacing Martin. UEA also making a double switch, Melly Bungay and Neha Mann onto the pitch in place of Moses and Goddard. Mulbarton to get the 2nd half underway, the sun looking to make an appearance, the ball played into Ladbrooke sends it out to the right for Gilman to attack, Wayman into clear for UEA, Mulbarton quick to regain the ball up to Kean moving right, Farmer pushing on to take the ball on Gregory clearing her cross, Mulbarton with players up the pitch Baxter getting hold of it moving right her attempted cross in close on goal claimed by the keeper.

Addison Gregory

Early pressure from Mulbarton, Copper busy chasing down the ball fed on into the right channel for Kean, Gregory in to cut out her cross the ball away for a throw. Baxter on the ball right side sending a cross into the box, over Waters central, drops to Kean beyond, Azotova in to make the blocking save with her feet the ball knocked out of the area Mulbarton getting it back Kerby left side sending it back in from 20 ish yards, Azotova getting back into her goal, behind the strike pushing it away to the right.

UEA captain and goalkeeper, Alexandra Azotova

UEA look to get the ball moving up the other end Harper into Odell carrying it on down the left flank, tackled by Farmer, who finds Baxter pulling into the right wing, Wayman closing her down. Ladbrooke playing a diagonal pass long into the far post, Waters the target, Azotova rushing in to jump and claim it ahead of the striker. Competitive Gilman taking the ball on right side support from Baxter, Gregory jumping in to defend, going down heavily, and staying down. The game stopped as she receives treatment on the pitch doesn’t look good, can’t continue UEA making the change as she gets up slowly, Avery Lyon coming on in her place, her dropping back to help in defence.

Wayman battling her way forwards down UEA’s left flank squaring a ball into the top of the Mulbarton area, Cooper back to cut it out and clear up field. UEA break Harper seeing the ball into the left for Mann, driving on, Spalding across to close her down off the defender for the corner kick. Curled in to the near side, Ladbrooke behind it clearing for Mulbarton. Baxter over on the left linking up with Kerby her ball fed into the area intercepted by Piggott. Possession back with Mulbarton on the right the high ball played into the six yard box by Gilman taken high by Azotova.

Naomi Cooper

Mulbarton making a change at the back, Leeks coming off, Meg Anderton coming on to join the defence. UEA have dealt well with bout o early pressing from Mulbarton in the 2nd half, beginning to see more of the ball, Fundikira holding it up in attack, closed down before she can squeeze a pass out to Odell bursting on down the left channel. Play paused again then as UEA have another player down in need of attention, it’s Fundikira with a bloody nose. Another long and more treatment is needed the change enforced, Moses coming back onto the pitch.

Odell over on the right for UEA 20 yards out sees her shot from the corner of the box blocked, Bungay up looking to support latching onto the loose ball her that side seeing her effort blocked by Anderton the ball loose in the box, Moses attacking it seeing another block, the ball popping back out to Bungay central 25 yards out drills a shot wide of the left post.

Sofia Odell

Piggott winning the ball in the air well for UEA at the back, Crawley-Trice surging on up the right angling the ball into the near post, Moses getting on to attack the ball turned behind off Spalding for a corner kick. The corner cut out near side back out wide UEA sending a cross back in across goal from a deeper position, Odell coming in not attacking it as Azotova sees it out of play. A lively tussle between Odell and Farmer as the winger attempts to get the ball on down the left flank, the full back stretching in to get the ball looping up into the air collected by the keeper.

UEA defender, Ellen Piggott

Bungay out to Odell in the left channel space to run into cuts back inside putting the ball in behind for Moses to run onto, Spalding cutting it out. The game opening up both side looking to get on in attack, Wayman up to link up with Odell on UEA’s left the cross cut out by Spalding cleared out for the throw. Odell bringing it inside to cross, Cooper back to get it clear for Mulbarton. The game moving into the final 15 minutes.

GOAL! Odell taking the ball on charging into the left corner before delivering a dangerous ball in across the face of goal, Moses racing in to attack as the back peddling defence attempt to get it away, don’t as it drops down towards the far post, Moses latching onto the loose ball to force out over the line and runs away in celebration as she fires UEA back into the lead. 1-2.

Lashay Moses congratulated by her teammates as she fires UEA back into the lead.

Mulbarton making an immediate change Ladbrooke coming off, Aneliese Smith coming on moving into the back line. UEA getting a free-kick as Mann is tugged back as she carries the ball into the left flank. Harper over the ball 25 plus yards out to the left, curls the ball up over the two player wall and dipping late on the keeper over Andrews to crash onto the ball and over for the goal kick. UEA into the lead with their tails up looking to get after the ball. A couple of long delays through injury will see plenty of stoppage time played.

Cooper fouled as she looks to play the ball into Kerby on the left, the ball into the area seen out wide at the near post. A double switch for UEA with Leah Edwards and Freya Kennedy coming on, replacing Odell and Wayman. UEA doing well to keep Waters off the ball conceding possession on the flanks, Kerby’s cross dealt with by Piggott. Farmer forcing her way up the right sending a cross into the box, attacked off a couple of heads before the keeper can claim it. Another player down in the area in need of treatment. Fitchew back on for Mulbarton replacing Gilman.

Mulbarton’s Emma Farmer with UEA’s Melly Bungay

Bloom on for Bungay sends the ball into Mann to the left, tackled by Farmer. Kean coming off for Mulbarton with Martin back into the action. Players tiring with the 45 minutes up, 9 minutes of stoppage still to be played, Cooper down stuffing from cramp, needs to come off, helped off the pitch Ladbrooke back on as Mulbarton look to find a goal to force extra-time. Farmer pushing on up the right, Ladbrooke attempts to find her with the diagonal ball, Harper intercepting for UEA.

Azotova getting down to lay claim to the ball at the feet of Waters as a vicious cross is sent in from the left. The keeper busy late on collecting another high ball into her six yard box this time from Farmer as she bombs on up the right. UEA looking to slow things down get the ball up to Moses to hold up. A nervous finish to the game UEA finding a little bit extra energy the game stretched as Mulbarton look to get players on in attack, Farmer with a diagonal ball into the top of the area from the right, dealt with by Piggott.

Abigail Crawley-Trice

Mann with a strike from distance pulls hr effort wide. The clock ticking down, Farmer up on the right with Kerby her cross into the area cut out by Harper. UEA defending their box, numbers back, Crawley-Trice with the long clearance. Moses battling forwards stopped by Spalding. Moses chasing the ball down keeping it away from danger as the final whistle blows and UEA win the League Plate.

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves 1-2 UEA FC Women

As close a match between the 2 sides as expected, little separating them could have gone either way, UEA taking their chance in the 2nd half to retake the lead after riding out a spirited 2nd half performance from Mulbarton who looked to get after the ball at the start of the 2nd half. The defence dropping back at times dealing well with threats delivered into the area. Competitive Gregory and Fundikira forced off through injury both no doubt feeling better with the win under their belts, Megan Todd finishing her stint as manager with a 3rd placed finish in Division One and a trophy.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to pick the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, three strong contenders for this one some solid displays right across the park. Firstly form Mulbarton, Naomi Cooper had a strong game operating in midfield getting after the ball, closing players down and looking to get forwards as well as get back to hep out in defence. Also in midfield, Alice Ladbrooke used the ball well, several good passes, out into the channels to keep her side moving forwards. Emma Farmer with some strong tackling to win the ball at the back. For UEA Sofia Odell proving a great outlet on the flanks looking to take the ball on scoring the opener. Lashay Moses getting stuck in to win the ball, holding it up and running at the defence scoring the winning goal. Jess Harper winning the ball, covering the ground made several crucial interceptions. The award goes to defender Ellen Piggott a commanding performance at the back, lost count of the number of times she won the cross fired into her area. Read the game and limited opportunities for the opposition.

Congratulations to UEA FC Women on winning the 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s League Plate.

UEA FC Women, 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s League Plate winners

A competitive final to start the day hotly contested could have gone either way, UEA emerging victorious my thanks to both sides for their assistance. Time to seek out some food and prepare for the League Cup final itself.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Harpenden Town Women v Stevenage FC Women

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Sunday 10th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Onto the 2nd game of this season’s ERWFL Finals day, the League Cup showpiece itself, featuring another all Premier Division clash and a repeat of this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup final with Harpenden Town Women taking on the new league champions and 6 times county cup winners, Stevenage FC Women who are aiming to end a magnificent season with an historic treble.

Won’t be taking their opponents lightly however having been run close in the county cup final, Harpenden reaching their first final getting it back to 2-2 at the death only for Stevenage to get straight up the other end and score the winning goal. Another debut final for Harpenden reaching the last two of the ERWFL League Cup. Stevenage despite their long history in the ERWFL yet to lift the League Cup losing to Luton Town in last season’s final.

Winning the county cup for the 6th time, Stevenage went on to become invisibles in the league, not losing any of their 22 league matches, winning 20. Sarah Wiltshire scoring her 50th goal in her debut season for Stevenage in that game going on to become the ERWFL Premier Division’s leading goal-scorer. An incredible return from the striker named captain at the start of the season, one of a host of new signings, with proven records to lead Stevenage’s charge to winning the ERWFL Premier Division title and returning to the FAWNL.

The ERWFL League Cup

Ex-Arsenal and England player, Sian Lingham (formerly Williams) taking charge of Stevenage as they set the chief goal of winning the league as a priority, that achieved in style an unbeaten season top from the start, the momentum carrying through to the cup competitions, back to win the county cup and now aiming for the treble, Wiltshire top scorer with 53 goals. Amy Makewell and Gemma Croucher also into double figures with 11 and 10 respectfully. By far the meanest defence in the league too shipping in just 13 goals, Elly Wade brought in from Luton playing a huge role in that.

Harpenden Town Women a rapidly growing force in Hertfordshire rising up the pyramid there debut season in the Beds & Herts Premier Division in 2022 to join the ERWFL, narrowly missing out on promotion to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women in their 1st season in regional football, roared back the following year to win the ERWFL Division One North title convincingly to earn promotion to the Premier Division. Have found their 1st season at tier five tougher but have assembled a talented group with good experience finishing solidly in 8th spot, saving there best form for the cup competitions.

Reaching both the county and league cup finals for the first time. Going toe to toe with Stevenage in both, proved a few wrong in the county cup showpiece coming back late on to make it 2-2 only to concede straight away losing it 3-2 at the death. Stevenage won’t be taking them lightly. Sophia Amanor has been the talisman up front for Harpenden and is so once again this season the leading goal scorer netting 35 goals and 3rd highest scorer in the Premier Division this season.

Road to the Final

All the ERWFL clubs entering the league Cup with those knocked out before the 3rd Round going on to compete for the Plate. Both Harpenden and Stevenage receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition. Harpenden progressing to the 3rd Round without kicking a ball due to the withdrawal from the league of She Can Play Panthers. Stevenage on the road taking on ERWFL Division One South side, Cambridge City Women, Amy Makewell netting a hat-trick for the away side with goals too for Sarah Wiltshire and Gemma Croucher seeing the game won 3-1.

Into the 3rd round of the League Cup Harpenden at home taking on Division One South side, Needham Market Women, coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller, 4-3 with goals from Jaime Curtain, Nancy Tucker, Belle Shannon and Chloe Dinsey. Stevenage away to Premier Division newcomers, Hutton Ladies, a comfortable win against the Essex side with goals from Elly Wade, Croucher, Wiltshire and Rosy Wodhams, 4 without reply to advance to the last 8.

Harpenden at home once again taking on Premier Division strugglers Enfield Town Ladies, top scorer Sophia Amanor amongst the goal netting a hat-trick along with one each for Seryan Kabongo and Belle Shannon to secure a 5-1 win. Stevenage at home too the Premier Division title chasers, hosting Division One South title contenders, Hashtag United Women Reserves who had already beaten Premier Division sides, Wroxham and Atletico London in the League Cup. A good test, Stevenage having the fire power to come out on top winning 4-2 with Wiltshire bagging a hat-trick, along with a goal for Croucher.

Into the last 4 of the League Cup, 2 all Premier Division clashes, Harpenden away top Hertfordshire rivals Royston Town Women, who might have seen themselves as favourites, Harpenden though blowing them away with a rapid 3 goal salvo in the first half to lead 3-0 at the break, Amanor, Ella mercer and Amana Oguntuga all scoring. Royston fought to get back into it 2nd half pulling it back to 3-2 late on but Harpenden had enough about them to see the game won and reach their 2nd final of the season. Stevenage making the trip to Essex to play, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies a close game this a single goal winning it 3 minutes from time, Eva Delaney finding the back of the net to send Stevenage into the final.

The Eyrie, home of Bedford Town FC hosting today’s ERWFL finals day, The large clubhouse with bar and kitchen serving hot and cold food and drinks open, leading out to the pitch itself, a 3g playing surface than sees plenty of action. Well looked after the main seated stand opposite the dugouts with covered standing about the ground. The sun trying it’s best to make an appearance, warm when it breaks through the clouds but very much stick or twist when it comes to keeping the coat on or not.

Both sides seeing players injured in the county cup final, Amana Oguntuga for Harpenden and defender Rebecca Edge for Stevenage both not featuring since. The teams and mascots led out onto the pitch by this afternoon’s match referee Jordan Blunt.

Harpenden Town Women starting XI – Daisy Strouts, Kacee Warren, Rebecca Dowdall (C), Lucy Ford, Erin Dinsey, Belle Shannon, Zoe Allen-Thomas, Ellie Deville, Leah Shellard & Sophia Amanor. Subs – Rebecca McShane, Erin Shacklock, Nancy Tucker, Issy Hughes & Seryan Kabongo.

Harpenden Town Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Faye Hazelton, Lucy Webster, Hannah Savage, Elly Wade, Hayley Carr, Rosy Wodhams, Alysha Stojko-Down, Eva Delaney, Amber Pearson, Gemma Croucher & Sarah Wiltshire (C). Subs – Katie Boyle, Amy Makewell, Ashleigh Goddard, Lilly Kelly & Mia Barnett.

Stevenage FC Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes extra time will follow then if required a penalty shoot-out.

Captains, Rebecca Dowdell and Sarah Wiltshire with todays match officials

It’s Harpenden to get the League Cup final underway with the kick-off 1st half wearing amber and green vertical striped shirts, green shorts and socks. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing white coloured shirts with red shoulders and sleeves, red shorts and white socks. The ball hit long into the left channel, Lucy Webster at the back dealing with it for Stevenage. Harpenden looking to make a positive start the ball fed on down the left into the feet of Ellie Deville takes it to the by-line cutting her cross back into the near post, goalkeeper Faye Hazelton down smartly to turn it behind for a corner kick.

The delivery flung into the mix the Stevenage defence dealing up to head the ball away to the right. Harpenden, captain, Rebecca Dowdell across to deal with the ball as Amber Pearson gives chase to a high ball played on through the middle for Stevenage. Chloe Dinsey breaking up play for Harpenden the ball into the right wing for Leah Shellard to take forwards pushing down the line sends a cross into the area Deville looking to get on the end of it, Hayley Carr blocking for Stevenage off Deville behind for the goal-kick.

A lively start from Harpenden, ex-Stevenage midfielder, Ella Mercer playing to pass into Shellard on the right driving on sends it inside to Sophia Amanor top corner of the box, quickly surrounded, Rosy Wodhams back to put the tackle in bring the ball away for Stevenage. Mercer snapping in to regain possession central on for Dinsey who looks to play Deville in on the left flank, Eva Delaney tracking back to challenge for Stevenage. Attempts to get on up the right taking the ball on Sarah Wiltshire coming for the ball, Kacee Warren closing Delaney down before she can release it.

Harpenden’s Chloe Dinsey

Warren then fouls Wodhams in the middle as she carries the ball forwards Stevenage with the free-kick. Pearson over it top of the circle goes for goal sending a looping ball in dropping low before the keeper, Daisy Strouts right behind it seeing the ball safely into her gloves. Wiltshire steals through on goal left side in the box as Hannah Savage slips the ball into her path, evading the diving keeper to get behind her, the flag up for offside even as she turns the ball into the back of the net.

Dinsey winning the ball back at the back for Harpenden sends the clearance long out to the right, Shellard racing after it does well to keep it on her momentum taking her down the line stabs the angled ball in towards goal her attempt brushing the top of the near post and over for a goal kick. The game beginning to settle down, Harpenden starting brightly beginning to drop off a little as Stevenage see more of the ball, Wodhams getting about the middle of the park snapping in to win the ball back.

Stevenage midfielder, Rosy Wodhams

Stevenage push p[layers on getting in inside from the right Delaney into Gemma Croucher across the top of the area finding Pearson left of the D, 25 out shifts the ball inside before curling a shot wide of the right post. Croucher getting hold of the ball for Stevenage central forwards for Wiltshire back top goal she looks to find Pearson making a run on the left, Dowdell stretching out a leg intercepting the ball for Harpenden.

Dowdell covering the ground at the back getting across to close Pearson down as Wodhams bringing the ball on looks to send her in, the ball out for a throw. Mercer taking the ball forwards tackled by Elly Wade, the ball still active inside the D, Mercer stretching to get hold of it, Wodhams back to help in defence. Dowdell stepping up to close Wodhams down as the pro-active midfielder carries the ball forwards with intent. Out for a Harpenden throw on the right dropped into Amanor corner of the area marked well by Wodhams, the ball not clear however finds it way back to Amanor inside the area, digs a shot out curling it wide of the near post.

Elly Wade keeping close tabs on Harpenden attacker, Sophia Amanor

Stevenage keeping Dowdell busy at the back as Wiltshire takes the ball forwards into the left channel sending it on for Pearson out a corner on the left, an in swinging ball turned over the bar for by Strouts for a 2nd corner.

GOAL! The 2nd delivery from the right curled in at an inviting height flashing across the six yard box, collected beyond the far post turned back into the middle, Wiltshire free around the top of the area, there to put her foot through the ball and smash it home to fire Stevenage into the lead 0-1.

Stevenage’s captain Sarah Wiltshire firing her side into the lead

Stevenage opening to scoring after 16 minutes, undoing Harpenden’s bright start to the match, they look to get after Stevenage from the restart the ball played on by Belle Shannon into Mercer left of the D, connects on the half volley sending in a shot on target, Hazelton right behind it, lacking the pace to trouble the keeper.

GOAL! The game end to end released quickly up the right Delaney into Wiltshire, send it inside for Pearson up with her breaking into the box, central, Strouts closing her down diving in at her feet, Pearson getting the ball past her taking it right and going beyond her to cut the shot back in across goal running away in celebration as she doubles Stevenage’s lead in the 18th minute 0-2.

Amber Pearson scores Stevenage’s 2nd

Stevenage with their tails up pressing players forwards Croucher up to Wiltshire powering on towards the box, Lucy Ford stepping in to tackle for Harpenden the ball pushed away to the right. Stevenage winning it back the ball cut back inside coming to Croucher central 20 yards out shifting the ball between her feet to open up the angle for a shot curls her attempt wide past the right post.

Stevenage on top since the goals Wiltshire racing in clear central not offside as Strouts comes racing out to the top of her box to try and close her down, the striker lobbing the ball up over the keeper but so too the crossbar beyond. Dinsey coming off for Harpenden, Nancy Tucker coming on. The offside flag raised halting another Stevenage attack. Webster bringing the ball on for Stevenage right side looking to find Wiltshire with the pass as she makes the run down the line, cut out by Ford for Harpenden.

Harpenden defender, Lucy Ford

Savage tackling for Stevenage at the back taking the ball from Shellard, on for Wodhams, looks to put in through for Wiltshire in attack, Shannon intercepting the ball for Harpenden, plays it out to Zoe Allen-Thomas on the left knocked forwards for Deville, Webster challenging for Stevenage cleared into Stojko-Down her pass forwards cut out by Shannon. Pearson bringing the ball inside from the left wing prodded on for Wiltshire central clips the rising shot in on goal, Strouts with the high catch.

GOAL! 25 minutes played Stevenage building a head of steam getting players on well, the ball from Croucher onto Delaney on the right turns it on for Wiltshire pulling off the defence to get into the box right of goal and strikes it on the angle under the diving keeper to make it 3-0 with her 2nd of the game.

Sarah Wiltshire on target for Stevenage again to put them 3-0 up

Harpenden on the back foot conceding a 3rd goal look to get the ball into the channels, Mercer on for Deville pulling right cutting the ball back into the area, no one their to attack it as Hazelton claims it untroubled. Amanor carrying the biggest threat for Harpenden, Stevenage keeping a close eye on her, the striker having to move about the back line to keep herself available for the pass from the middle receiving it into her feet left of the area, Wade moving across quickly to close her down the blocking tackle turning the ball out for the throw.

Stojko-Down carrying the ball on through the middle has Wiltshire peeling away into the right channel ahead of her just a little too much weight on the pass sees Strouts able to rush out to lay claim to the ball. Amanor holding up the ball left corner of the area stabs it past Carr with Shellard coming across the back line, Wade getting the foot in to divert the ball away to safety out for a throw. The Harpenden attackers looking to combine on the right Amanor up with Shellard and Deville, exchanging passes, Wodhams back in amongst them for Stevenage to defend, no way through.

Ellie Deville in between, Alysha Stojko-Down and Hannah Savage

Wiltshire played in again on the right wide of goal the keeper beat the shot wide across the face of goal cleared by Dowdell. Dinsey back on for Harpenden as they play the ball on into Amanor right side 25 out passed into Shellard, Wade too close the attacker lobbing the ball up past her into the box, but Savage is round on the cover to win the ball back for Stevenage. Wade in to charge the ball down as Amanor tries to play Shellard in on the left. Dowdell with the challenge on Pearson to break up a Stevenage attack up the other end.

A competitive final Stevenage with the 3 goal advantage however, a pop from range straight into Hazelton’s gloves. Both sides stepping in to close the other down in the middle off the park the game open both defences backing themselves in a one on one situation, Shannon and Dinsey pushed back to help defend for Harpenden, Wodhams all over the place back to win the ball, carrying it back up the pitch for Stevenage. Stevenage making a change Amy Makewell coming on in place of Delaney.

Gemma Croucher

A good turn on the ball from Pearson on the left receiving the ball off a throw to deliver it into the box, looking for Wiltshire, the keeper just there clear. Wade keeping a close watch on Amanor won’t let the attacker turn on the ball as she sees it into her feet off Dinsey, getting hold of the ball wade plays it forwards into Croucher making the left channel run, Dowdell across her shielding the ball out for a goal kick.

Wodhams up with Stojko-Down through the middle for Stevenage pushed into Wiltshire 25 yards out finds Croucher left of the D 20 out plays it across the D into Pearson looking to break into the box for the return pass, cut out well by Dowdell for Harpenden. Savage getting on up Stevenage’s left tangling with Dowdell getting the ball beyond her to her cross not stopped by Strouts near side runs on through to Croucher who volleys the ball wide past the right post.

Harpenden captain, Rebecca Dowdell

Not long left in the first half Wiltshire snatching hold of the ball central out out Pearson free on the left sends the diagonal ball in across the penalty area just too much on it for Croucher and Makewell both running in on goal.

Half-time Harpenden Town Women 0-3 Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage heading back to the changing rooms at the half-time interval with a comfortable 3 goal lead. Riding out a bit of early pressure from Harpenden looking to make a positive start, Wiltshire lively up top opening the scoring on 16 minutes, Amber Pearson quickly doubling the lead. Wiltshire adding a third on 26 minutes to put Stevenage into a strong position. The game has been fairly open and competitive Harpenden looking for an opening needing a goal early in the 2nd half to get themselves back into the contest, Stevenage in sights of a historic treble can afford to be patient take the opportunity to add a further goal to make the result certain.

A double change for Harpenden at the start of the 2nd half, Rebecca McShane and Erin Shacklock on replacing, Shellard and Deville. Stevenage unchanged to get the 2nd 45 minute underway, the ball played back into defence lifted on to the right with Wodhams getting forwards closed down nut keeps hold of the ball sending it inside towards Croucher looking to push her way on into the box Ford defending. Wiltshire breaking away with the ball wide on the right attacking the by-line her cross long towards Makewell making the far post run turns her header wide of the mark.

Nancy Tucker and Rosy Wodhams

Stevenage pressing early in the 2nd half the ball hooked into the box from the left lifted clear by Ford. Stojko-Down on the ball for Stevenage on for Croucher linking up with Wiltshire in attack, Dowdell closing the striker down the ball sent up field won back by Webster to chip over the top of the Harpenden defence but the flag is up against Wiltshire. Shannon working the ball on with Dinsey for Harpenden on the right side Wade coming across to deal with the threat.

Makewell sending the ball into Pearson’s run as the winger bombs on up the left flank in behind to hit the cross on the move a dangerous ball through the corridor but neither Wiltshire nor Wodhams running in on goal can reach it. Shannon still down from the earlier attack in need of treatment for Harpenden, up slowly but ok to continue. Mercer linking up with Ford through the middle for Harpenden the ball played out to Amanor on the right flank takes the ball inside before striking it on the angle from 20 yards out her effort wide at the near post.

Amanor seeing the ball into her feet well for Harpenden in attack holding it up looking to use her strength to turn on the ball get a shot released, Mercer playing her in top of the D holds of Carr to chip a shot over the bar.

Ella Mercer

Shacklock in to make the tackle on Wiltshire as the Stevenage attack looks to drive on with the ball though the middle. Mercer has pulled up for Harpenden the midfielder looking in some discomfort needs to come off, helped to the side of the pitch a blow as Seryan Kabongo comes on in her place. Moving past the hour mark the ball clipped into Wiltshire right side a neat touch to bring the ball down and races away down the line before whipping a cross in long across the six yard box, Wodhams meeting it on the run at the far post turning her attempt wide back across the face of goal.

Harpenden get the ball up the left into Tucker inside the box Wade across her to defend, Harpenden’s bench appealing the referee waving it away no foul. Stays down treatment required but back on her feet. Stevenage’s turn, well certainly the crowds to appeal as Wiltshire, Wodhams and Stojko-Down combine it attack on the right the cross blocked by the rising Dowdell striking her hand, yes, intentional I don’t think so the referee again waving play on.

Dowdell heading the ball clear as Stojko-Down bringing the ball on looks for Wiltshire pulling wide on the right. Allen-Thomas lunging in to win the ball back for Harpenden as Stevenage continue to advance with the ball. Amanor remains the outlet for Harpenden but has a lot of work to do as Allen-Thomas sends it long into her path on the right, strong taking it on, gets the cross into the box but can’t pick anyone out.

Harpenden’s Zoe Allen Thomas

Stevenage’s attackers interchanging positions Ford intercepting with the header as Makewell looks to link up with Pearson on the right. Ford getting her foot in to intercept the ball once again for Harpenden hit long through the middle for Amanor to attack, Wade getting across her path to see the ball back to her keeper to clear. The game not having the intensity of the first half Stevenage with a comfortable lead determined not too concede, Harpenden with more hopeful balls forwards than penetrating passes the game closing in on the final 20 minutes.

Sophia Amanor

GOAL! Stevenage add a 4th goal as Stojko-Down runs onto the ball central top of the D to lift it up over the keeper to score 0-4.

Alysha Stojko-Down putting Stevenage 4-0 up

Stevenage in total control now 4 goals to the good with 20 minutes left, make a change the goal scorer coming off, Stojko-Down replaced by Ashleigh Goddard.

GOAL! Pressing down the left the cross in cleared back up to Croucher putting the diagonal ball up into the box from deep on the left the keeper going for it not getting enough the ball striking the post and rebounding back across goal, Goddard latching onto it to turn it home from close range making an instant impact from the bench to extend Stevenage’s lead 0-5.

Ashleigh Goddard off the bench to score Stevenage’s 5th goal

Changes made, Harpenden bringing off, Tucker and Dinsey, send on , Deville and Issy Hughes. The latter looking to link up with Shannon get the ball forwards, play brought back for the free-kick, the referee having a word with Hughes. Stevenage making a double change too, Wiltshire and Webster coming off, Lilly Kelly and Mia Barnett. Shannon with a shot from range as Amanor brings the ball down into her feet the ball in low on goal Hazelton down low at her right post to save.

Eva Delaney back on along with Katie Boyle with less than 10 minutes to play replacing Wodhams and Pearson. The game a little disjoined with so many changes late on but Stevenage in control need to keep hold of the ball, Croucher sending the ball on through the middle into Goddard inside the box left of the D, strikes the ball wide across goal. McShane linking up with Deville as Harpenden get the ball on left side played inside to Hughes, Goddard back to close her down for Stevenage.

Ashleigh Goddard

Kelly bringing the ball on for Stevenage right into the box stabbed in towards Makewell inside the six yard box sees her shot charged down the rebound back to Goddard top of the area leaning back lifts her shot over the crossbar. Stevenage pushing on well in the closing stages of the game looking to add more goals, Makewell attacking on the left striking the ball in on the angle, Strouts getting her gloves up to beat the ball down into the ground and drop to pull it into her body before Goddard can pounce. The final whistle blowing and Stevenage have done it winning the ERWFL League Cup for the 1st time and with it completing a magnificent treble winning season.

Full time Harpenden Town Women 0-5 Stevenage FC Women

A few lessons learnt from the county cup final Stevenage absorbing some early pressure from Harpenden before getting the ball forwards well into their attacking players using the space to get into some good positions Wiltshire firing them into the lead just past the quarter hour mark. Amber Pearson quickly adding a 2nd. Wiltshire making it 3-0 midway through the 2nd half. That the score-line at the break Stevenage with a comfortable lead to defend could afford to be patient in the 2nd half limiting the opposition chances, looking to add a 4th clinical goal, came through Alysha Stojko-Down, Ashleigh Goddard replacing her straight after on hand to score a quick 5th to put the final beyond any doubt. Stevenage capping off an unbeaten promotion winning season with the County and League Cup a wonderful achievement for the whole club, players, coaching staff and supporting volunteers that do a fantastic job promoting the club via social media. Disappointment for Harpenden in the end but should look back on the season with pride, if you’d have said you’d not only hold your own in your first season playing at tier 5 but reach two cup finals as well you would have taken it. Plenty to build on.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day, this one pretty straight forwards, although a hat-trick from a certain 50 plus goal season striker might have changed things. A few performances to mention of course. For Harpenden, captain Rebecca Dowdell won the ball well at the back getting across to deal with threats and winning it through the middle. Ella Mercer looked good on the ball using it well finding pockets of space and linking up with the attackers. Sophia Amanor held the ball up well held of players looked to find a break through. For Stevenage, Elly Wade was composed at the back and did well to keep a check on Amanor, reading the threats. Amber Pearson providing a strong outlet on the left get forwards used the ball well. Gemma Croucher made some great runs finding space linked up play well. Sarah Wiltshire has had a fantastic season from start to finish has run defences ragged never still looking for the ball and given it will create chances scoring two more goals. The award though goes to Rosy Wodhams, she was everywhere early on getting back to win the ball and bring it forwards with purpose and intent never let up.

Stevenage FC Women 2025/26 ERWFL League Cup winners

Many congratulations to Stevenage FC Women on winning the 2025/26 ERWFL League Cup and completing a magnificent treble.

Congratulations too, to Stevenage FC Women’s development side, finishing runners-up in ERWFL Division One North.

Stevenage FC Women Development runners-up in ERWFL Division One North

A great achievement for everyone involved at the club and good luck to Stevenage in the FAWNL, see you next season.

Another long but entertaining finals day at Bedford, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the teams. My thanks too to the ERWFL committee for letting me cover another finals day and their help on the day and throughout the year. It’s a highly entertaining league rarely as dull game to watch.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Wroxham Women v Haringey Borough Women

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Sunday 10th May

ERWFL League Plate Final

The final day of the ERWFL season, heading down to Bedfordshire for the regional leagues finals day, two tasty looking finals to look forward to, beginning with the League Plate final, this season an all Premier Division affair with Wroxham Women taking on Haringey Borough Women.

This morning’s prize.

The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. Always entertaining and competitive the clubs and players within it getting better year on year as the women’s game continues to grow. The ERWFL League Plate contested by the sides knocked out of the early round of the League Cup itself. This years final being contested by the sides finishing 3rd and 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division respectfully and always a competitive side between these two Wroxham having the upper hand results wise this season beating Haringey 2-1 at home on the opening day and 1-0 in the away fixture.

Wroxham Women with Joe Simpson returning as manager this season, finishing the season strong with 2 successive 5 game winning runs to push up the table to finish in 3rd place. Carrying that momentum into the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final, at Norwich City FC’s Carrow Road stadium, to win the trophy for the 1st time, beating fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 2-1 with goals from Poppy Loveland and Hannah Fuller. Having the opportunity to make it a cup double to finish off the season. Hannah Fuller as ever prolific in front of goal top scorer for Wroxham once again with 22 goals to her name. Kathryn Stanley has 12 with Rebecca Stephenson coming in from Cambridge United WFC halfway through the season scoring 9 along with Maddie Green.

Haringey Borough Women like Wroxham one of the most established sides in the ERWFL Premier Division winning promotion from the Division back in 2017 to the FAWNL, a brief stay the side undergoing many changes since then but have always remained competitive more often at the top end of the league, the North London club, experiencing a mixed set of results this season winning as many as they have lost tailing off in the league having put some good runs together early on. A well supported club with a great community feel, with a great social media effort to help promote the club. The squad with plenty of goals in it, captain Ronnell Humes top scorer netting 17 from her 21 appearances. Nia Garwood has 14 and Renea Jarrett also into double figures for the campaign.

Road to the Final

The sides contesting the Plate competition knocked out of the early rounds of the Cup itself, Wroxham and Haringey disappointed to exit one competition but certainly amongst the favourites entering the Plate. Byes for both in the 1st Round, Wroxham away to Division One South side, Hertford Town Women in the 2nd Round, Kathryn Stanley and Maddie Green both netting a brace in the game along with goals for Hannah Fuller, Lily Alexander, Lauren Bullard, Holly Farrow and Poppy Loveland seeing them comfortably through with a 9-0 win. Haringey also away to Division One South opposition in the 2nd Round taking on Wormley Rovers Ladies, goals from Fatima Husein and Ronnell Humes enough to see them advance to the quarter finals winning 2-1.

Both sides amongst the goals in the last 8 of the competition, Wroxham drawn at home taking on Division One North high flyers Stevenage FC Women Development, Hannah Fuller amongst the goals picking up a hat-trick, with Becca Stephenson, Kathryn Stanley and Anais Winney also bagging a goal each in a 6-2 victory. Haringey on home turf too taking on another Division One North side, Dunstable Town Women Lionesses, wracked up the goals with Ronnell Humes grabbing herself a hat-trick, a brace for both Shanique Brown and Renea Jarrett. Goals too from Shanice Taylor-Newsam, Connie Wakeford, Tayla Dennis and Fatima Husein in a crushing 11-1 win.

Into the semi-finals both sides having home advantage, Wroxham running out of weekends to get their fixtures in back to Aylsham’s 3G pitch to taking on another Division One North high flyer and potential banana skin, Real Bedford Women Reserves, in the end a singe goal was enough to clinch victory, with Becca Stephenson scoring to send Wroxham into the final. Haringey hosting Division One South side, Brentwood Town Women, Renea Jarrett getting Haringey into a 3rd minute lead went on to lead 3-0 at the break with Nia Garwood and Leila Hadari-Agaev also on target. Garwood adding her 2nd and Haringey’s 4th in stoppage time to send them into the final.

The Eyrie, home of Bedford Town FC the venue for today’s Plate final, hosting the ERWFL Finals day for the 2nd time. Bedfordshire itself becoming something of a hot bed for women’s football in recent season’s. The 3G pitch in a compact ground with a large clubhouse the bar and kitchen open, with hot food and drink being served leading into the ground, a seated stand with covered area at both ends and a small terraced stand behind the dugouts. The weather not as warm as last year, even the day before with a noticeable chill in the air, cloud cover the feature of the year so far keeping the sun at bay but no rain in the forecast as the two sides are led out onto the pitch by today’s Plate final referee Alice Braithwaite, assisted by Mark Howard, Pedro Cotela and Aneeta Gellen.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Yaz Walford, Tigi Robson (C), Ella Gambell, Poppy Loveland, Elise Wade, Lily Alexander, Katie Knights, Holly Farrow, Becca Stephenson, Kathryn Stanley & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Lauren Bullard, Katie Green, Maddie Green, Hayley Kindred & Jorja Palmer.

Women Women

Haringey Borough Women starting XI – Maelie Jay Rance, Zara Kirstein, Chloe Ions, Tayla Dennis, Elisia Huetson, Leila Hadari-Agaev, Connie Wakeford, Nia Garwood, Shanice Taylor-Newsam & Ronnell Humes (C). Subs – Amy Haynes, Shanique Brown, Jada Pollendine, Fatima Husein & Renea Jarett.

Haringey Borough Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the Plate final will going to extra-time and if required a penalty shoot-out.

Captain’s Tigi Robson and Ronnell Humes with today’s match officials.

Yaz Walford in goal for Wroxham with Bryony Williams picking up an achilles injury ruling her out of both finals. A few changes to the side that won the County Cup with defender Elise Wade back in the side, Holly Farrow, Kathryn Stanley starting with Hayley Kindred, Maddie and Katie Green on the bench. Haringey too with 5 to call on from the bench if required. It’s Wroxham to kick-off the first half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks, Haringey lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue trim, blue shorts and yellow socks with blue tops. The ball rolled back into the middle clipped long out to the right wing for Kathryn Stanley pushing forwards, too much on it full back, Chloe Ions can see it out for a throw to Haringey.

Wroxham moving in to press the ball early on squeeze Haringey’s defence, Katie Knights snapping in to close the ball down. Popping about Haringey look to counter the ball up to Shanice Taylor-Newsam, Ella Gambell in to close her down win the ball back in defence for Wroxham. Fed into Becca Stephenson top of the D looks to link up with Hannah Fuller in attack, Haringey with plenty back Leila Hadari-Agaev stabbing a foot out to get the ball away from danger.

Haringey looking to counter attacking on the right Nia Garwood with support from captain, Ronnell Humes, Lily Alexander defending for Wroxham the ball out for a throw, Haringey press to win a corner kick on that side.

GOAL! Players up from the back the delivery is spot on from Humes the corner floated in central dropping invitingly inside the six yard box, Zara Kirstein running in rising to meet it powering her header over the line to open the scoring 0-1.

Haringey open the scoring from their 1st corner of the game

Zara Kirstein heading Haringey into the early lead.

Haringey with the perfect start into the lead scoring in the 4th minute from their 1st corner of the game. Wroxham look for a response the ball played on for Stanley attacking on the right, Ions putting it out for the throw taken quickly Fuller bringing it down turning for the by-line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross, Tayla Dennis cutting it out turning the ball behind for Wroxham’s first corner of the game. A good ball delivered into the box, Dennis getting her head on the ball to clear as a host of players rush in to attack the ball, Knights retrieving it for Wroxham but play stopped with a Haringey player own inside the area.

A pause in play as Ions is treated, but up okay back to her feet ready to play on. Humes, Garwood and Taylor-Newsom all staying high ready to counter as Haringey break up a Wroxham attack the ball cleared long up to the attackers strong, Haringey are a physical side like to get stuck in pressure the defence Humes looking to get Garwood onto the ball right side, intercepted by Poppy Loveland at the back for Wroxham. Haringey quick to close the ball down back with Garwood on the right tackled by Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

Lively Knights lifting the ball up over the Haringey defence with Fuller breaking in behind, goalkeeper, Maelie Jay Rance quickly out of her area to win the race for the ball. No quarter given by either side, Hadari-Agaev playing the ball on through the middle into Humes, looks to play it into the left channel for Taylor-Newsam, Alexander across to deal with the ball for Wroxham. The ball put up to Fuller heading it down into Stanley on the right is fouled by Hadari-Agaev winning the free-kick. Taken quickly by Stephenson worked down the line for Gambell racing on into the box taking the ball down to the by-line her cross into the near post taken by the keeper, however the flag is up for off-side.

Haringey looking to get the ball into one of their front three at the earliest opportunity, Taylor-Newsam with it at her feet on the right, held up by Gambell as she tries to force her way in-field. Cleared into the middle, Hadari-Agaev playing it back in over the top, Elise Wade playing it out for Wroxham. A few free-kicks being given away. Stephenson fouled centrally for Wroxham played on into the right Gambell getting a throw high up the pitch. Put inside to Stephenson top right corner of the area turns into the D, taking the ball on looking for an opening, finds it unleashing a vicious left foot strike pace behind it the keeper diving to her right the ball cannoning back off the post, turned behind for the goal-kick.

Shaping up to be a lively contest the two sides getting stuck into each other, Wroxham breaking up a Haringey attack the ball played up to Alexander has Gambell racing on past her the ball put into her path striking it from range powered into the box, intercepted by Dennis knocked up into the air before being cleared behind to concede the corner. Stephenson with the in- swinger curling the ball in to land on top of the net.

Haringey’s front three staying up as they defend set-pieces the ball cleared long up towards them looking too turn the opposition, Garwood managing to get free out wide on the right 25 yards out to unleash a shot the ball racing in across goal wide past the far post. Alexander combining with Knights to get Wroxham moving forwards, into Stephenson as the Haringey defence drops back into their box clipped on for Fuller, Dennis cutting it out to clear for Haringey.

Haringey’s Tayla Dennis with Wroxham’ Hannah Fuller

Quick to get the ball up the other end into Garwood right side linking up with Kirstein the ball fired in to the angle towards the near post, Walford getting down smartly to make the save the ball lose however turned on across the face on goal, no one in the six yard box to attack it. Wroxham bring the ball on left side, Robson on for Farrow she takes it on before releasing it into Fuller who drives into the box, Dennis lunging in to defend putting the ball behind for a corner kick.

The ball from the left lifted into the near post attacked turned on across goal out past the far post another corner awarded. Players running in to attack the ball as it is dropped into the six yard box, Gambell running in to attack it with Fuller, knocking the ball over as she is bundled over with an arm in her back, landing awkwardly and in need of treatment the game paused.

Gambell up slowly feeling her shoulder, but okay to return as Haringey look to go left from the restart, Wade across to defend putting the ball out for a throw. Taylor-Newsam playing the cross-field ball into Garwood out on the right looking to bring it down is challenged well by Robson. Haringey getting themselves a corner on the left the ball played in dealt with by Knights out to the right for another corner kick.

GOAL! Haringey capitalising on their corners as they go on to double their lead, Ions over on the right side to deliver curls the ball in close to the near post low, Walford diving forwards looking to try and collect doesn’t get there as the ball whips past her across the line into the bottom corner 0-2. Haringey doubling their lead midway through the 1st half.

Chloe Ions scoring straight from the corner to double Haringey’s lead

Play sometimes a little rushed neither side willing to give the other time on the ball, Wroxham getting players on well as Haringey concede ground at times, Stanley putting the ball on for Fuller coming right, Lexi Wade getting a foot it to turn the ball away for a throw. Robson having a lively contest on the opposite flank with Garwood as Humes turns the ball into her from Connie Wakeford in the middle. Rance sharp again out to the top of her area to get to the ball as Fuller pulls off the defence.

Wroxham pushing on Stanley over with Farrow on the left exchanging passes, cut out by Elisia Huetson comes back to Gambell in space on the right on the angle lifts the ball into the box, just over Fuller rising centrally dropping for Stephenson beyond the far post, can’t work it back inside to Fuller as Haringey rush to get players back around the ball, cleared out of the area straight to Gambell right of the D 20 yards out strikes the shot low and hard, Rance diving full stretch to her left keeping it out pushing the ball wide.

Haringey goalkeeper, Maelie Jay Rance

Wroxham growing a little frustrated feel a few decisions aren’t going their way or not being dealt with, Fuller flagged offside as another ball from Stanley is angled in from the right. Kirstein winning the ball back as Farrow looks to take it on left wing. Wroxham exerting some pressure. Haringey strong in defence plenty back, Dennis and Huetson with blocking tackles. Their attackers always ready to receive the ball turn their markers. Humes and Garwood both closing the ball down forcing errors at the back.

Haringey captain, Ronnell Humes with Wroxham defender, Elise Wade

Wroxham get the ball on down the right Stanley into Fuller taking the ball on to the by-line cutting it back up the line to Stanley her strike blocked by Huetson, Gambell running in to take hold of the rebound charging down the line whipping the ball in across the six yard box, falling too Farrow her strike beat down by the keeper.

Wroxham’s Holly Farrow

Robson fouled again by Haringey, Wroxham winning the free-kick deep on the left, Alexander to deliver sending the ball high into the box, Huetson dealing with it for Haringey. Knights winning it back for Wroxham attempting to put it back in Dennis clearing for Haringey. Wroxham making a change as Robson has an issue with her contact lenses, Katie Green onto the field. Huetson getting a foot in to take the ball off Fuller as she looks to run in behind.

Humes through the middle, Walford out to close her down top of her area, the ball knocked past the keeper, wide of goal however cleared by Wade. Wroxham loosing at the back, Humes looking to capitalise shooting from the right of the D however effort wide past the far post. Stephenson on for Stanley out on the right, to the by-line fouled but Wroxham furious the decision not given.

Robson back on for Wroxham, press the ball Gambell in to defend on Humes putting the ball on for Stephenson to Fuller pulling out to the right, Dennis going with her lunging in to send the ball out for a throw. Ions down for Haringey in the middle hurt during their latest attack, looks in some discomfort hurting her ankle. Needs to come off can’t put any weight on her injured leg is carried off the field, Renea Jarrett coming on in her place.

Play resuming with a throw to Wroxham on the right, Loveland dropping the ball into Fuller she plays Loveland on down the line to take the to the by-line before cutting a cross back into the penalty spot, attacked by Stanley she turns her attempt wide past the right post. Haringey working hard in defence Wroxham asking questions, Jarrett back to defend clearing the ball. Still a threat up the other end on the counter, Haringey have it in midfield, Hadari-Agaev having a go from range, Walford getting down behind it to save push the ball out to the left behind for a corner.

Haringey’s Elisia Hadari-Agaev

Taken short, Jarrett to send the ball into the near post, claimed by Walford. Wroxham winning a free-kick to the left 25 yards out, Stephenson over it strikes for goal her shot hitting the post, scrambled clear to the left Wroxham with a throw the pressure building keeping players up, Gambell coming right whipping a cross into the box, over Stanley central but turned behind for a corner on the right.

Becca Stephenson hitting the post twice

The corner fired into the six yard box, over Gambell and Fuller running in central to attack it cleared at the far post only to the top of the area. Knights latching onto it her low strike on target throw bodies blocked on the line out to the right Stephenson sending it back in Stanley towards the far post heading the ball over the bar. The chances mounting for Wroxham but Haringey holding the 2 goal advantage.

Poppy Loveland beating Haringey’s Ronnell Humes to the ball

Gambell in the wars again a clash of heads with Taylor-Newsom another pause late in the game. Is back on her feet ready to go again, little time left in the half however Knights looking for Fuller pulling off the defence cut out by Dennis.

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-2 Haringey Borough Women

Haringey with the early strike scoring in the 4th minute from their first corner of the game. Wroxham with the lions share of the ball getting players on well but Haringey keeping players up despite the defence getting pushed back, ready to launch the counter attack the front three looking to hold the ball up stretch the Wroxham back line, competitive and physical Haringey doubling their lead from another corner midway through the 2nd half. Wroxham frustrated hitting the post twice and forcing a save from the keeper. 2-0 the advantage for Haringey will be aiming for a 3rd to take control of the contest, Wroxham will feel confident of getting a goal themselves and coming back in the 2nd half despite their frustration with a few decisions.

No changes for either side, Jarrett on for the injured Ions late in the first half for Haringey as they get the 2nd half underway the ball played long into the left flank too strong for Taylor-Newsam out of play for the throw. Both sides in to close each other down early in the 2nd period the ball given away. Gambell winning the ball well for Wroxham right side up the line into Stanley looks to drive with it, stopped by Huetson.

Taylor-Newsam on the left getting the ball into the box, looking for Humes central, Walford getting hold t it for Wroxham. Kirstein closing the ball down in Haringey’s right puts it on for Humes attacking the top of the area right side, Walford racing out to drop down and smother the ball before the attacker can reach it. Free-kicks continue to be a feature of the game, Wroxham putting another ball in from deep won by Dennis.

Wroxham with the cross-field ball Gambell running not it taking the ball on down the right sending her cross into the side netting. Wroxham winning a free-kick in a central position roughly 25 yards out Gambell and Stephenson over the ball as Haringey set their wall, Stephenson with the strike, gets it over the wall but too much on it lifts the ball over the bar.

Gambell getting on the wrong end of another heavy challenge play stopped over on the right as she is treated another long pause in proceedings some concern has been on the end of some bruising challenges. Clearly not happy with thing’s makes a comment to the referee and gets shown a yellow card and sin binned, Wroxham down to 10 for 10 minutes as play resumes with a Haringey throw put back to the keeper.

Haringey looking to take advantage the ball from Jarrett on for Garwood into the right channel powers forwards her early cross into the box defended by Wade, cleared back out into the middle, Hadari-Agaev with the strike from range, hit straight into the keeper. Wroxham in need of a goal keep players forwards Wade with a cross from deep looking for Stanley central, Kirstein doing the defending for Haringey. Taylor-Newsam looking to take the ball on left, tackled by Wade, the ball played into Alexander looks to send it on for Fuller up on the right with Stanley, Dennis over to defend for Haringey force the error the ball behind for the goal kick.

Haringey’s Renea Jarrett

Wroxham getting players up around the 18 yard box, Stanley putting it into the top of the area, for Stephenson her shot fired in on the angle wide past the far post. Wroxham wit a throw high on the right put into Fuller taking it on down the line her cross diverted behind by Dennis for the corner. Curled into the box headed clear dropping for Alexander whipped back into the mix Haringey with numbers back getting it clear.

Wroxham’s Lily Alexander

Haringey always ready for the counter the ball from Wakeford on for Garwood bursting clear right channel to take the ball on into the box, the angle going against her as she looks to lift her shot over the keeper, sending it up over the bar. Garwood strong on the right getting away again, Robson back with her slowing her down no cross comes back up the line to play the ball in central, Huetson getting forwards, Stanley back to defend for Wroxham top of the D.

Haringey attacker, Nia Garwood

Wroxham making a double change Hayley Kindred coming on replacing Farrow on the left side Maddie green on into the right replacing Stanley. Gambell back on Wroxham back up to 11 with the little over 15 minutes left to play the ball lifted into the box, Fuller attacking it, Rance sliding in to save get hold of it at her feet. Dennis across to defend tackling Fuller as she links up with Stanley on the right. Wroxham press Kindred onto the ball left inside for Stephenson 25 yards out on for Fuller back to goal she turns it back to Kindred wide on the wing, challenged the ball out for a corner kick.

GOAL! Wroxham pushing players up the ball fired in with pace across the face of goal coming straight to Fuller who digs it out from under her feet to turn over the line to pull a goal back for the Norfolk side 1-2.

Hannah Fuller onto the ball to fire a goal back for Wroxham

Into the final 15 minutes Wroxham looking to keep the pressure on Haringey look to release Garwood on the right she is fouled by Kindred winning the free-kick. The delivery swept into the area from the angle cleared by Wroxham’s Gambell. Knights up to Kindred on the left linking up with Fuller, Huetson closing her down the ball out for a throw.

Connie Wakeford

The game opening up Haringey breaking forwards Humes coming right with the ball sending it on for Taylor-Newsam powering her way into the box striking it goal-wards rising Walford throwing am arm up to turn the ball up over the crossbar for a corner.

Curled into the area from the right Gambell heading clear for Wroxham, Fuller taking the ball on from Knights taking it right challenge by Wade out for a corner kick. Dennis dealing with the threat from the corner for Haringey. Alexander getting back onto the ball for Wroxham wide her shot angled in beat down and claimed by Rance. Wade coming off for Wroxham, Katie Green coming on.

GOAL! Just as Wroxham were looking to exert some pressure get back into the game Haringey hit them on the counter as Garwood is played into space on the right charging on with the ball to the by-line sends her cross into the six yard box, Gambell going to clear it ahead of the keeper, turns in dismay as she diverts into the back of her own net 1-3.

Haringey restoring their 2 goal lead in the most unfortunate of circumstances, Gambell crestfallen two finals 2 own goals, distraught Wroxham bring her off, sending Stanley back on football can be cruel at times. Haringey making a change Humes coming off, Shanique Brown coming on. Wakeford bringing the ball on clipping a deep cross into the area, collected by Walford. Garwood tangling with Robson as she looks to get away on the right.

The game opening up now as Wroxham have to take a few chances Garwood away on the right combining with Brown, Loveland seeing it out for the goal kick. Jada Pollendine coming on for Haringey. Garwood bursts in behind through the middle with Wroxham pushed up racing after the ball central Walford comes racing out of her area to try and win the race for the ball sliding in gets a bit of both Garwood going over her the ball in beyond cleared by Katie Green. Play brought back for the free-kick however, Walford shown the yellow card. Jarrett placing the ball down for the set-piece 25 yards out central shooting over.

Katie Green

The game stretched, Brown getting a shot away from outside the box for Haringey taking a nick off a defender out for a corner kick. Taken short Haringey looking to keep possession, Brown fouled winning the free-kick wide on the right. Jarrett to put it in, claimed by Walford. Loveland winning the ball high for Wroxham, before being fouled the free-kick taken quickly, Jarrett winning it back for Haringey.

The clock tickling down Haringey working hard at the back to keep Wroxham at bay, Dennis blocking a shot from the right, the intercepting a ball put in from Kindred on the left. Wroxham pushing on late on winning a throw deep on the right into the area cleared out to the left retrieved by Alexander strikes the ball on the angle her effort blocked the rebound out to Knights top of the area shoots over.

Haringey get the ball away from danger out to Garwood breaking right side, takes the ball into the corner looking to see the clock down supported by Brown, winning a corner, no need to play it in keep possession as the final whistle blows and celebrate as Haringey win this season’s ERWFL League Plate final.

Celebrating in front of their fans gathered behind the goal

Haringey celebrating with their fans at the final whistle

Fulltime Wroxham Women 1-3 Haringey Borough Women

Haringey winning the ERWFL League Plate final 3-1 to get their hands on the trophy getting off to a fantastic start scoring form the first corner of the game inside 4 minutes. Defended well often deep inviting pressure but dealing with it, ready to counter with their 3 attackers staying high ready to go. Wroxham frustrated seeing the post struck twice creating further chances, Haringey continued to be a threat from set-pieces Chloe Ions doubling the lead before having to come off injured, hopping around after the game hoping it’s nothing too serious no doubt a trophy win helping with the pain. 2-0 up at half-time Wroxham unhappy with some decisions always going to be a physical encounter, a few bruises to show for it. Wroxham fought to get a goal back, doing so through Hannan Fuller in the 74th minute, Haringey remained a threat on the break and Garwood bursting away down the right saw her cross turned into the back of the net for an unfortunate own goal to restore the 2 goal cushion and see the game out to clinch the win.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the day a few contenders but one standing out. A competitive game expected no less performances of note across the park. For Wroxham it will be a day Ella Gambell will probably want to forget but she stood out for Wroxham aggressive winning the ball at the back getting stuck in made some great forward runs, clattered more than once. Becca Stephenson unlucky hitting the post twice got on with the ball looking for opening in a tightly packed box at times. Katie Knights with some good ball winning tackles in the middle get Wroxham going forwards. Hannah Fuller lively kept the Haringey defence on their toes constantly looking for an opening. For Haringey it was a battling defensive performance got numbers back inviting a little pressure but for the large part dealing with it. Zara Kirstein with some strong tackling heading home the opener. Elisia Huetson with numerous interceptions and blocks.. Going forward Nia Garwood was strong on the right taking players on and a ready outlet throughout. Renea Jarrett coming on into the middle getting stuck in to win the ball. The award going to Tayla Dennis the pick of the defenders made several tackles and blocks, getting across to nullify threats and defend set plays.

Haringey Borough Women win this season’s ERWFL League Plate

Congratulations to Haringey Borough Women on winning the 2025/26 ERWFL League Plate.

A competitive final to start the day, expected no less between the sides finishing 3rd and 5th in the Premier Division. A fine end to the season for both should use it as a platform to push on next season. Wroxham missing out on one final are the new County Cup champions and if they continue the form they had towards the end of the season will be amongst the favourites for the the title. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today. as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 3rd May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

Sponsored by Harrod Sport

The action switches back to Norfolk this Sunday with a another trip to Carrow Road to watch the final of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup, sponsored by Harrod Sport. Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women into the final for the 1st time taking on fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Wroxham Women.

This evening’s prize

The final between the two leading sides in Norfolk with Norwich City Women victors in the last 3 finals not entering this years competition, in action early today at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium playing Moneyfields Women in FAWNL South West/South East Play-off match. A dramatic end to the game drawing 2-2 the final whistle Norwich emerging victorious in a sudden death penalty shootout to clinch promotion to tier 3 for the first time in their history, many congratulations to all at the club. The ERWFL Premier Division representing the 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid a strong and highly competitive league both Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women and Wroxham Women with strong campaigns finishing 6th and 3rd respectfully locking horns in the county cup final.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women have gone form strength to strength since joining the ERWFL 3 season’s ago, winning promotion in to the Premier Division in their 1st season at regional level, retained their Premier Division status the year after and have now clinched their highest ever league finish, 6th place. Playing at The Nest ground sharing with Norwich City Women got their fixtures in when others didn’t meaning an early finish their league campaign wrapped up back on the 18th of March, so a long spell without a competitive fixture leading into this evening final.

Reaching the County Cup final to make their Carrow Road debut has been an incredible journey having followed the group from their days as Sprowston Ladies to where they are now. Winning the Norfolk Women League Plate back in 2018, captain Calista Tink and striker Victoria Leyer the only two members of that squad still at the club along with Tink’s father Adrian who has led the side in all that time. Have grown as a club on and off the pitch. Leilah Gooding the top scorer with 11 goals, Holly Walker and Millie Baggott both with 9 each.

Wroxham Women reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final for the 1st time themselves two season’s ago beaten 6-0 by Norwich City Women, have been playing right up until the final day of the ERWFL campaign where a strong end to the season saw them clinch a 3rd placed finish, and the potential of a cup double as they have not only reached the final of this season’s County Cup but also final of this season’s ERWFL League Plate, taking on Haringey Borough Women next Sunday at Bedford Town FC. Tonight though all about the county cup will be slight favourites having gotten the better of Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women in both their midweek league encounters both game though won by a single goal 1-0 and 2-1 respectfully.

Wroxham Women an established side playing at tier 5 with ambitions to push for promotion to the FAWNL above. Joe Simpson returning as manager, Wroxham suffered a slow start dropping points early on but since being knocked out of the League Cup have gone from strength to strength, 2 runs of 5 straight wins interrupted by a defeat to champions Stevenage seeing them power their way up the table to consolidate a top three finish will be hoping that momentum carries through to their cup final games. Hannah Fuller as ever prolific in front of goal top scorer for Wroxham once again with 21 goals to her name. Kathryn Stanley has 12 with Rebecca Stephenson coming in from Cambridge United WFC halfway through the season scoring 9 along with Maddie Green.

Both sides have players in their squads who have won the county cup before, Kathryn Stanley with Norwich, Katie Knights with both Norwich and Wymondham, Hayley Kindred also in the Wymondham squad back in 2022 along with Hannah Fuller all playing for Wroxham this evening. Anna Larkins playing for Dussindale & Hellesdon appearing in multiple finals. This evening’s referee, Alice Parker also a winner of the county cup in her playing days with Norwich City Women.

Road to the Final

Norfolk FA seeding their senior women’s sides to enter in the later rounds of the competition, both Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women and Wroxham Women joining at the quarter final stage. Dussindale & Hellesdon having home advantage in the last 8 as they took on ERWFL Division One North side, Thetford Town Ladies. Goals for Leilah Gooding, Calista Tink and Holly Walker sealing a 3-0 win. Wroxham drawn away to Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Sprowston FC Women. Kathryn Stanley rattling home a hat-trick, Rebecca Stephenson scoring a brace plus a goal each for Hannah Fuller and Ella Gambell seeing the game won comfortably 7-0.

Into the semi-finals, the big guns kept apart, both taking on county league opposition with the NWGFL having two representatives in the last four of the county cup, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women taking on Costessey Sports Ladies conquerors of Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies who had reached 4 of the last 5 county cup finals. Leilah Gooding on target to score twice, plus a goal for Isla Thorne securing a 3-1 victory to book Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 1st county cup final appearance. Wroxham away taking on UEA FC Women. A single goal enough for Wroxham winning through to the final 1-0 courtesy of a goal from their captain, Tigi Robson.

Carrow Road

Carrow Road the venue once again the premier football stadium in Norfolk, home to Norwich City FC. A busy Sunday hosting 3 finals the Junior an Senior men’s county cup finals along with the women’s showpiece. The pitch looking immaculate as you’d expect a carpet compared to most of the pitches in the county which could do with some rain, none expected again this evening however, a warm and sunny day the temperature pleasant heading into the evening. The fans from both clubs situate in the South Stand opposite the dug outs. Both teams out on the pitch enjoying a look round the stadium no doubt excited for the occassion.

Alice Parker this evenings match referee assisted by Elise Carroll-Mileham and Alex Vasey with Edwards Colman the 4th official.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Addi Gregory, Yve Mitchell, Anna Larkins, Calista Tink (C) Maddie Goodenough, Chloe Shipman, Isla Thorne, Ella Kruez, Holly Walker, Leilah Gooding & Kyla Langan. Subs – Rosie George, Lauren Baxter, Millie Baggott, Abbie Gilchrist & Alexia Cooke.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Yaz Walford, Katie Green, Tigi Robson (C), Ella Gambell, Poppy Loveland, Lily Alexander, Katie Knights, Hayley Kindred, Becca Stephenson, Maddie Green & Hannah Fuller. Subs- Lauren Bullard, Jordan Arnoup, Kathryn Stanley, Jorja Palmer & Holly Farrow.

Wroxham Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the final will be settled on penalties.

Captains Tigi Robson and Calista Tink with this evening’s match officials

Both sides with goalkeeping issues leading up to the game without regular keepers, Amber Locker or Tyla Cole, Addi Gregory usually an outfield player donning the gloves. Yaz Walford between the sticks for Wroxham with Bryony Williams out injured. A long wait for the final for Dussindale & Hellesdon the build up over the game finally here, have the kick-off 1st half wearing an all clear kit with Wroxham lined up opposite not in their usual blue and white kit but a kit harking back to their time as Acle prior to joining the Wroxham family white shirts with black diagonal striping and a red slash through the middle, with black shorts and socks. The ball put into the middle sent long out to the right flank out of play for an early Wroxham goal kick.

A little tentative at the start Dussindale & Hellesdon up to press the ball, given away at the back by Wroxham on the left, Kyla Langan nipping onto the ball linking up with Leilah Gooding in attack on Dussindale & Hellesdon’s right taking the ball on a shot struck in on the angle from 30 yards, Walford behind it all the way. Wroxham come forwards Katie Knights central long out to Becca Stephenson attacking on the right takes on the early cross squaring the ball into the box, cleared by Dussindale & Hellesdon captain, Calista Tink.

Both sides into each other the ball closed down not much head way made, Wroxham getting a series of throws on the left, defender Poppy Loveland has a long throw in her arsenal, launched into striker Hannah Fuller down near the by-line left of goal, tracked by Maddie Goodenough the defender getting it away for Yve Mitchell to clear up field. Testing balls launched into the channels early on by both sides, Langan and Gooding looking to combine up top for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Maddie Green right side and Hayley Kindred left for Wroxham breaking forwards. Tink winning the ball at the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Ella Kruez playing the ball on for Langan over on the right her strike into the box collected by Walford. Tink coming across to tackle Fuller as the Wroxham striker goes after the ball fed on into the right side, the pitch watered before kick-off slick the ball skipping on. Holly Walker closing the ball down on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting in crossed into the area, cleared by Loveland for Wroxham. A few niggly fouls given away competitive in the middle, Knights with Lily Alexander for Wroxham, Isla Thorne snapping in for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Wroxham midfielder, Katie Knights

Tink pro-active in defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting out to the ball closing down Maddie Green as her sister Katie sends the ball on up the right. A throw for Wroxham on the right played inside into Stephenson’s feet top of the D, turns going left looking for an opening to strike the ball, Kruez getting in the tackle before she can attempt it. Kindred up ended for Wroxham outside the box top left corner, the set-piece launched into the box headed clear by Tink. Back out to the left a shot from the angle punched back into the area racing wide past the far post.

Wroxham’s Becca Stephenson with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Anna Larkins

Knights carrying the ball on through the middle for Wroxham fed out to Maddie Green on the right, Tink across to offer Anna Larkins support as she slows the attacker down the ball cleared as it is played into the box. Dussindale & Hellesdon defending deeper working hard to regain possession at the back, lifted up to Langan and Gooding in attack the pair combining well causing the Wroxham defence a few issues, breaking forwards into the right channel the ball prodded on towards the box, diverted behind by Loveland for the first corner of the game.

Leilah Gooding

The corner swung in on goal landing on the roof of the net. Ella Gambell taking a knock for Wroxham as the defender fights to win the ball back for Wroxham as Walker brings it on up the left fed inside for Langan. A pause in play while she receives treatment both sides over to the benches for fluids and instructions rom their respective coaches. Gambell up ok to play on, the opening quarter hour seeing both sides cancelling each other out to a degree, Stephenson taking the ball on into the left channel, Kreuz tracking back to put in the challenge for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Is a good sized pitch both sides looking to test the other on the flank, so far without much success, Tink clearing up most ball played into her box, Dussindale & Hellesdon attack starting deeper Loveland and Gambell both stepping up to tackle as Langan and Gooding drive on through the middle. Larkins putting the ball on for Walker left side, Gambell giving the foul away seeing referee, Alice Parker awarding the free-kick. A dangerous ball curled into the area cleared well by Loveland over to the right, won back Dussindale & Hellesdon sending the cross back into the six yard box, Walford claiming it unchallenged.

Alice Parker, winning the county cup with Norwich now officiating the final

Gregory racing out to the top of her area as Fuller steals in behind on the left, the keeper just getting there ahead of her to get it away. Alexander getting hold of the ball for Wroxham links up with Knights, Thorne snapping back to win the tackle for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Stephenson moving about the top of the 18 yards box probing for an opening, her short pass into Fuller, Tink stabbing out a foot to take it away from her. Katie and Maddie Green linking up on the right, Larkins into challenge the ball out for a throw.

Wroxham starting to build a little momentum going forwards the ball chased down in the final 3rd, Katie Green lifting it over the top for Stephenson breaking away right channel, again it’s Tink back at quickly doing the defending for Dussindale & Hellesdon. The crowd making themselves heard, Dussindale & Hellesdon look to have the greater number, Wroxham with their band present not to be out done. Langan onto the ball left channel pushes on knocking the ball into the area, cut out by Loveland for a throw. Dussindale & Hellesdon getting players on the cross into the box Gooding onto the end of it sending a shot in to the near post blocked turned behind for a corner on the right.

Wroxham’s Katie Green

The result the same as the previous corner, curled in on goal looking to test the keeper with a ball under the crossbar, it instead nestles on top of the net. Wroxham up on the left with a throw high, Goodenough getting it back for Dussindale & Hellesdon into Shipman turned on up field, the break is on 2 v 2 at the back Langan after the ball rolling on into the left channel, Gooding powering her way into the box the cross curled in invitingly, just too far ahead of Gooding.

Half an hour gone in the first half a game of few chances so far none on target Wroxham have a throw out on the right brought down played inside to Alexander 20 yards out sends it on across the top of the D, for Kindred to attack left of the D, her 1st time effort curling away from Gregory’s left post. No quarter given in midfield, Thorne busy closing players down on the ball, Knights attempting to add thrust to Wroxham’s attack driving on with the all central running into a dead end as 3 Dussindale & Hellesdon players close her down top of the D.

Katie Green on for Stephenson pulling out to the right, Larkins tackling the ball out for the throw. Inside for Stephenson linking up with Fuller outside the Dussindale & Hellesdon 18 yard box, no way through lays it back into Alexander 25 yards out takes on the strike the ball racing wide of the left post. With Dussindale & Hellesdon dropping off in defence, Katie Green and captain Tigi Robson are able to get on support Wroxham as they get the ball on up to the final 3rd, Tink a little reckless sliding in to win the ball top right corner outside the area fouling Stephenson as she gets inside off a throw picking up the first yellow card of the game.

Kindred on the free-kick, strikes it in towards the far post, too much on it however, flies over the bar. The ball hooked up field by Dussindale & Hellesdon, Langan can’t make it stick as Gambell closes her down, Wroxham quick to get it back up the pitch out to the left flank Robson up with Kindred sending the cross into the near post, claimed by Gregory. Gambell pushing up from the back to get stuck in to win the ball back for Wroxham on for Knights in the middle lifted out to Stephenson combining with Maddie Green the cross cut out by Tink, not clear, struck back in from range taking a deflection out behind for a corner on the right.

Wroxham’s Ella Gambell with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Chloe Shipman

GOAL! 40 minutes played players up from the back for the Wroxham corner, taken short the delivery fed back out to corner taker who lifts the cross up over the crowd gathered at the near post, to fall into the six yard box which is met by Loveland unmarked to smash past the keeper to open the scoring 0-1.

The ball dropping down into the box for defender Poppy Loveland to run onto a blast home to put Wroxham into the lead

Poppy Loveland

Wroxham having gathered some momentum towards the end of the first half taking the lead. Both sides continue their midfield tussle, Thorne into tackle Stephenson, Gooding brought down as she looks to travel through the middle. A good distance out Walker looking to send the ball on over the top for the goal kick. Katie Green with the diagonal ball into Fuller back to goal left side turns it on for Kindred attacking on the wing, to the by-line tackled by Mitchell the ball out for a corner kick.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Yve Mitchell

Played in low to the near post turned behind for a goal kick. Into 2 minutes of stoppage time. Goodenough putting the tackle in on Fuller as she looks to attack the left channel taking the ball on from Kindred.

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

The first half drawing to a close, Wroxham scoring late in the half to take a slender advantage into the break. Has been a half of few chances with defences largely on top. Dussindale & Hellesdon dropping deeper giving Wroxham very little room to get in behind, protecting the keeper. Both sides competitive a close contest snapping into the other not much between them, clear both sides have players who can hurt the other but the final ball hasn’t been there, little between the sides in their 2 league fixtures and looks to be the case here too, a single goal in it still very much all to play for.

Dussindale & Hellesdon ringing the changes at half-time making a triple switch sending on Rosie George, Millie Baggott and Abbie Gilchrist to replace Langan, Gooding and Larkins. Wroxham making a change too with Kathryn Stanley coming on in place of Katie Green. Wroxham to get the 2nd period underway, a reminder should the scores be level after 90 minutes the final will go to penalties. The ball launched out to the right seen out of play by Gilchrist for a throw. George and Baggott leading the attack for Dussindale & Hellesdon now play switched quickly up the left channel with George getting in behind to chase the ball down, Walford rushing out to the corner of her area just about getting there to knock the ball out to the touch line, kept in Dussindale & Hellesdon are quick to get players up, for a moment the goal open, but takes too long to get the angled ball played, Walford back by then recovering to push the ball away from danger.

Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to make a positive opening to the 2nd half. Knights for Wroxham playing the ball into Maddie Green right side her cross put into the top of the area intercepted by Tink. Thorne onto the ball for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Wroxham’s defence pushed up space opening up to play the ball into a little wild with her release doesn’t capitalise as George looks to pull clear right side.

The 2nd half already having a different feel about it both sides looking to be more direct, Alexander central for Wroxham putting the ball into the left for Stephenson down the line held up by Mitchell forced back up the line squeezing a cross into the D, Stanley running onto it her strike charged down by Goodenough.

Maddie Green

The game opening up space to run into George is put away out on the right the ball at her feet surging into the box wide of goal fires a low shot in on the angle, Walford down smartly to make the save the ball pushed out to the top of the six yard box, Baggott on the follow getting hold of the ball Walford making another fantastic blocking save the ball knocked up onto the crossbar and out to keep Wroxham’s lead in tack.

Goalkeeper Yaz Walford with a brilliant double save for Wroxham

Dussindale & Hellesdon creating chances Baggott and George looking to take over where Gooding and Langan threatened in the 1st half. Gambell fouled as she looks to tackle Baggott as the attacker tries to force her way through the middle. Kindred combining with Stephenson out on Wroxham’s left the ball inside for Fuller outside the box, Goodenough challenging to get the ball out into the middle, Thorne taking it on sending the ball out to George on the right, Robson tackling to win it back for Wroxham.

Loveland with a vital touch at the back volleying the ball clear as George looks to spin in behind as the ball from Kruez is played into her feet. Baggott almost stealing in behind central moments later 30 yards out but for another crucial challenge from Loveland. Battles all over the pitch Shipman getting a free-kick as she and Kindred come together.

Wroxham’s Hayley Kindred

Fuller making several runs into the channel looking to draw defenders out, Tink out to the right to close her down. Dussindale & Hellesdon’s defence staying deep, Wroxham able to get players on but have to be wary of losing it, starting from halfway however the attackers have alot of work to do, with Loveland, Gambell and Robson quick to read the danger. Stephenson seeing a shot from the top of the D struck over as the ball comes into her from Green on the right.

Becca Stephenson

Loveland getting across to close down Baggott as she brings the ball down from Shipman in the middle. Thorne continues to get about the midfield breaking up play for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Gambell at the back getting her head on a high ball to clear as Dussindale & Hellesdon look to counter on the right. Gilchrist putting the ball into Thorne central for Dussindale & Hellesdon, has Baggott ahead of her looking to run in behind the threaded pass just the wrong side of her allowing Gambell tracking back with her to intercept.

Dussindale & Hellesdon getting the ball back out on the left Walker to George from the angle 25 yards out striking her shot over. Robson bringing the ball on right side for Wroxham chipping it up to Fuller making the run out into the wing, Kruez getting back to help Mitchell in defence the ball out for a throw.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Maddie Goodenough

Alexander getting a shove in the back as she rises to head the ball the free-kick awarded deep on the left. Kindred on it played short fed back to the winger who places the cross along the top of the D, Fuller running onto it 20 yards out firing a vicious strike wide past the right post.

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller

Moving into the final 20 minutes the game still in the balance. Wroxham keen to extend their advantage prepared to take a few risks keeping Dussindale & Hellesdon penned in trusting they will have too much to do to get players out to support any counter attack. Gambell again with the header as a free-kick won by Dussindale & Hellesdon is launched up from half way. Tink going out to close Fuller down as she gets onto the ball right side concedes the corner kick.

Wroxham with another short corner routine the ball back with the taker, Dussindale & Hellesdon look to clear their lines as the cross is whipped in with pace attacked by Fuller central burying it into the back of the net runs away in wild celebration, the lead doubled! No! The flag up for offside, the famous canary goal celebration music there for a split second but quickly curtailed that was an extremely close call.

Hannah Fuller’s goal ruled out for offside

Robson in the wars for Wroxham brought down, stays down taking a knock to the ankle, treatment given the players with a chance to catch their breath the game has a nervous edge to it. Play resuming Robson ok to go on Dussindale & Hellesdon advance on the left Walker sending a looping cross into the box, George striding in central jumping for the ball can’t quite get there over her to be cleared on the opposite side. Robson pulling up again feeling her injury, Wroxham unwilling to make the change Robson determined to play on.

George keeping a throw in on the by-line cutting it back up to the corner of the area for Kruez, goes for goal sending the ball over the bar. Less than 10 minutes on the clock Fuller on the left up with Stanley, played back for Robson plays the ball in central Stephenson knocking it forwards into the box left of the D, Stanley bursting in behind, the flag up straight away as Gregory dives in bravely to get the ball, colliding with the onrushing attacker, Stanley hurdling over the keeper who stays down. Treatment needed a pause in play, 743 in attendance for the final. Gregory up back on her feet.

GOAL! The game getting stretched opening up suits Fuller as the attacker sees the ball into her path as she breaks into the left flank surging on taking the ball into the box, Tink coming to close her down Fuller with a neat touch to drag the ball inside the defender and moving in central puts her right foot through the ball rifling it past the keeper, to score wheeling away in celebration running over to supporters to celebrate with her teammates 0-2.

Hannah Fuller checking inside to set herself up to rifle home Wroxham’s 2nd

GOAL! Wroxham finally doubling their lead but it is undone straight away as Dussindale & Hellesdon get the ball out quickly too George on the right down the line whipping a pacy cross into the six yard box, Gambell lunging in to try and clear only succeeding in diverting it into the back of her own net 1-2.

A lively end to the game Dussindale & Hellesdon getting it back to a single goal straight away. Gilchrist getting a foot on the ball to stop Green getting in behind as Knights plays a diagonal ball out to the flank. Both sides re energised Dussindale & Hellesdon going for it throwing their attackers back on Gooding and Lagan back on the pitch replacing Goodenough and Kruez off.

Wroxham playing the ball up to Fuller in attack heads it down for Stephenson making the run to the left taking the ball on digs the cross out dropping it into the six yard box, Fuller in place to nod the ball down towards goal, Gregory getting hold of it for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Wroxham strengthening their defence, Katie Green back on replacing Maddie Green. A lively end to the game the supporters over on the far side encouraging their teams, Gooding trying to get the ball through to Baggott, Loveland cutting it out.

5 added minutes to be played, a goal for Wroxham will surely seal the win, one back for Dussindale & Hellesdon and we go to penalties. Have a throw out to the left work a shot in from range wide at the near post. Wroxham playing the ball up the left for Fuller who used her experience to take the ball into the corner eat up time. Shipman fouled picking up a knock, the set-piece put in from deep cleared by Stanley for a throw.

Wroxham dropping back for the first time in the game defending, Katie Green getting her head ball to clear for Wroxham off of a throw on the right. Dussindale & Hellesdon with a corner at the death everyone up bar the keeper, but don’t make it count as the ball is curled into the side netting, the final whistle blows and Wroxham have done it getting their name of the trophy winning the Harrod Sports Women’s Cup for the first time.

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

The 2nd half bringing the game to life Dussindale & Hellesdon making changes forcing Wroxham goalkeeper, Yaz Walford into a fantastic double save. Both looking for a goal Wroxham continuing to get players on, Fuller seeing a goal ruled off for offside only spurring her on to get into the box and rifle the ball home to double lead. Short lived as an own goal gets Dussindale & Hellesdon back into it setting up a nervy finish, Wroxham seeing the game out clinching victory over Dussindale & Hellesdon by a single goal for the 3rd time this season. Can’t help feeling this the the beginning of a new rivalry in the county cup Wroxham getting their hands on the trophy Dussindale & Hellesdon can be proud of their Carrow Road debut.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time to choose the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders and I’m going away from the winner of the award on the night. Strong performances all over the pitch for Dussindale & Hellesdon it was a strong game at the back from their captain, Calista Tink won the ball and read the game. Isla Thorne was busy in midfield getting after the ball several good balls up to the attackers. Lilah Gooding did well in the number 10 shirt useful runs looking to link up with Kyla Langan both causing issues for the Wroxham defence as did Rosie George coming on in the 2nd half providing a good outlet for the ball. For Wroxham Katie Knights took the ball on well through the middle joining up the attack. Becca Stephenson covered the ground in the final 3rd looking for openings and ready to receive the ball. Yaz Walford’s double save was crucial. Hannah Fuller won the award on the night and for that winning goal I can see why made some great runs into the channels a defence dropping deep space limited found the opening. But this was a close one and defenders all played their part Ella Gambell put herself about challenging to win the ball close players down. I’ve gone for Poppy Loveland made so important last ditch tackles didn’t let players pass her on too many opportunities and scored the opening goal.

Wroxham Women 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s County Cup winners

Congratulations to Wroxham Women on winning the 2025/26 Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

The season over for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women a 6th placed finish and county cup final appearance there’s more to come from this side and will be hungry to reach the final again. Wroxham Women winning one of their two finals off to Bedford next Sunday, for the ERWFL League Plate final know Haringey Borough Women well as they look to make it a cup double. My thanks to all at Norfolk FA for their help this evening and allowing me to cover the final always appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Soham Town Rangers Ladies v Newmarket Town Women Development

Thursday 30th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final

Heading back into Cambridgeshire this Thursday evening for the 2nd game of a cup final double bill. Histon Ladies beating Cambridge United WFC on penalties to lift the Women’s Invitation Cup, it’s time for the Junior Invitation Cup to take centre stage as Soham Town Rangers Ladies into their 1st ever final take on Newmarket Town Women Development.

Cambridgeshire FA long having a junior women’s county cup competition to run along side the senior cup giving side lower down the pyramid a genuine opportunity to compete for silverware.

Soham Town Rangers Ladies enjoying a rapid growth since their formation two season’s ago coming to the town having previously been Isleham United Ladies, playing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two last season won promotion up to Division One bringing players into the club with pedigree in the women’s game within Cambridgeshire and regional level. Soham Town Rangers FC embracing their women’s side that growth has continued with the formation of a new Reserves side this season playing in Division Three.

The 1st team competing in Division One are holding their own in the league currently 6th and looking to consolidate a mid-table finish. Winning through to their 1st ever cup final taking on 5th placed Newmarket Town Women Development the pair meeting just 5 days ago in the league drawing 3-3. Carla Penny is an accomplished finisher and has been amongst the goals since joining Soham Town last season, leading scorer this campaign netting 21 goals to date. Kara Firek has 7 goals to her name and Rachel Pearce 6.

Newmarket Town Women Development reach a cup final for the 2nd successive season having emerged triumphant in the League Cup last season beating Leverington Sports Ladies 2-1. Into the Junior Invitation Cup this time around. Newmarket as I’ve mentioned on numerous occasions a club very much built on youth bringing players up through the various age groups into the 1st team playing in the ERWFL. The Development side an integral part of this finishing runners-up in Division One too last season. The nature of the side will see a turn over of players but the pathway remains strong.

Currently 5th in the table with games in hand, could challenge for a top 4 finish, but have a busy May ahead of them this week alone hardly ideal preparation for a Thursday evening final with the calendar full a game against Soham on Sunday followed by a Tuesday evening home clash with Cambridge City winning 3-0 to climb above Soham into 5th spot. Cerys Bithell leading the goal scoring charts with 19 goals to date, Evie Stackhouse is closing in on double figures on 9 alongside, Jess Linger. Keely Cole has 7 goals too from her 11 appearances for the Development side. Are able to use up to 4 1st team players under the competition rules but with several Development players having featured for the 1st team this season and u18 players emerging the squad is strong.

Road to the Final

Contrasting routes to the final of the Junior Invitation Cup, Soham at home to Division Three newcomers, Linton Granta Women in the 1st round of the competition, ran out 5-1 winners to progress to the quarter finals with Elli-Mai Quinn-Nicholls netting a brace along with goals for Jodie Copping, Jessica Brand and Kara Firek. Newmarket awarded the home win to progress versus Cambourne Town Women.

Newmarket progressing in the last eight win another home win awarded having been due to face Cambridge City Women Development. Soham on the road taking on Division Two side, Willingham Wolves Women, Carla Penny amongst the goals bagging herself a hat-trick, captain Laura Mcallister on target for 2 more with Rachel Pearce and Maddie Cooper also celebrating a goal each in a 7-2 win.

The semi-finals for the Junior Invitation Cup played 11 days ago, Soham on the road to face Division Three side Burwell Ladies the away side emerging victorious in a close game winning by a single goal scored by Rachel Pearce. Newmarket getting to play a game at last taking on Leverington Sports Ladies at home, having won 7-3 against the same opponents 6 days before. Eden Kirby-Cook firing Newmarket into the lead 1st half, pegged back to 1-1 at the break a hat-trick scored by Evie Stackhouse seeing Newmarket into the final winning the game 4-1.

This evening’s final being played at Soham Town Rangers FC, the grass pitch a good size, parking beside leading into the stadium the kitchen hut open serving hot food and drink, the clubhouse open too. A main stand featuring elevated seating with covered standing area beside and and both end of the ground. The sun setting behind the tall trees at one end of the ground still warm after another sunny day to end the month, no rain in the forecast.

Soham Town Rangers Ladies starting XI – Caitlin Fulford, Chloe Dunn, Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls, Lizzie Quigley, Jodie Copping, Katie Levitt, Erin Clarke, Laura Mcallister (C), Rachel Pearce, Carla Penny & Kara Firek. Subs – Elsie Holroyd-Davison, Ester McTrusty, Michela Edwards, Evie Luker & Maddie Cooper.

Soham Town Rangers Ladies

Newmarket Town Women Development starting XI – Mairi Robinson, Jess Linger (C) Molly Charles, Olivia Caffarelli, Jazmine Sarpong, Lily Grundy, Bryony O’Connell, Eden Kirby-Cook, Cerys Bithell, Alex Shelford & Evie Stackhouse. Subs – Holly Corley, Abbi Griffin, Keely Cole, Lexie Moody & Millie Gray.

Newmarket Town Women development

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Should the scores remain level after 90 minutes then the game will be decided by a penalty shoot-out.

Captains Jess Linger and Laura Mcallister with this evenings match officials

The sun setting behind the tree line may pose a few issues Newmarket with it at their backs as Soham kick-off the first half wearing green and white vertical striped shirts with green coloured shorts and socks, Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts, blue shorts and white socks. The ball put back to Soham captain, Laura Mcallister in midfield Newmarket rush forwards to pressure the ball. Cerys Bithell with the blocking tackle the ball away for a throw on the left.

Rachel Pearce seeing the ball into her feet turning to send the ball on for Chloe Dunn looking to get on up the left flank for Soham, Jess Linger captaining Newmarket this evening with the tackle at right back to send the ball out of play. From high up the pitch Soham look to work the ball across the top of the area, Jazmine Sarpong stretching out a leg in defence to put it into the middle Newmarket launching a rapid counter attack the ball out to Eden Kirby-Cook attacking through the left channel, Soham goalkeeper, Caitlin Fulford moving out of her six yard box to get hold of the ball first.

Pearce putting the ball on for Kara Firek in attack for Soham winning her side a corner kick, on the left players come forwards played in low to the near post cleared back to the corner taker from the angle putting the return cross behind.

GOAL! The deadlock broken early inside 4 minutes as Newmarket send the ball out into the left channel Kirby-Cook linking up with Evie Stackhouse the pass inside to Alex Shelford central 20 yards out lines up the shot driven in low, Fulford saving with her leg turning the ball back out of her six yard box to the left of goal, Stackhouse running in on the follow-up latching onto it to smash the ball into the back of the net to open the scoring 0-1.

Evie Stackhouse congratulated as she fires Newmarket into the lead

The perfect start for Newmarket taking the lead inside the opening 4 minutes a blow for Soham as they look to get on the attack from the restart Pearce to Emily Clarke the midfielder putting the ball on for Firek attacking the right channel, full back Molly Charles on her shoulder challenging Firek shoots from 20 yards out her strike wide at the near post.

Soham captain, Laura Mcallister

Newmarket looking to get the ball out wide and into the channels quickly have willing runners all over the pitch, Lily Grundy finding Bithell wide on the right her touch takes the ball infield surges towards the top of the D her shot charged down by Soham’s Jodie Copping, the ball loose, a tangle of bodies seeing players from both sides down eventually cleared.

Shelford coming over to the left taking the ball on from Bryony O’Connell, on for Stackhouse, Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls who used to keep goal for a spell at Newmarket, outfield tonight in defence lunging in to play the ball out for a throw. Tentative in spells the ball popping about the pitch open play spread, Newmarket getting it on quickly keeping their opponents penned in a little, Copping cutting the ball out in defence into the middle for Carla Penny looking to get Firek away, Olivia Caffarelli with a vital interception at the back for Newmarket as they are pushed up to halfway.

Lizzie Quigley closing down Bithell as she drives inside from the right the ball into Pearce in the middle linking up with Penny as they look to get Soham moving forwards, the ball lifted on for Firek up top, the Newmarket back line stepping up to catch her offside. Bithell send a cross into the box far side Stackhouse on the turn shooting for the near post saved by Fulford getting down behind it the ball then cleared behind for a corner kick on the left. Fired into the six yard box half cleared to the top of the area, knocked back in as players rush out, Fulford down to smother the ball.

Alex Shelford getting to the ball ahead of Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls

Grundy finding Stackhouse with the pass into the left channel, taking on the shot charged down deflected in behind by the defender into the keepers gloves. Firek coming over to the left side taking the ball on from Penny wrong footing Caffarelli to get away make a run towards the box, Sarpong across on the cover closing her down tackling before she can line up a shot the ball away for a corner on the left.

Soham with the short corner the deep cross into the top of the area cleared by Sarpong, Newmarket looking to counter quickly, Copping with the tackle to halt the attack. Linger getting her leg in to intercept the ball as Pearce bringing the ball on up the left looks to thread it through to Firek in attack. O’Connell sending the ball on for Bithell charging on down the right taking the shot on on the move, rolls on through to the keeper.

Newmarket on the front foot getting players on Shelford, Kirby-Cook, Stackhouse and Bithell all looking to make themselves available for the ball keeping the Soham defence busy. Mcallister tacking Shelford outside the D as she moves the ball on across to the right looking for an opening. Firek looking to pull off the shoulder of the Newmarket centre backs, Sarpong hard to shake off however as Penny puts the ball through to her central, shoulder to shoulder getting it away to safety.

A throw to Newmarket on the right hooked on towards the by-line by Stackhouse for Bithell to chase down seen out by Dunn for a goal-kick. Bithell getting into the middle outside the D linking up with Shelford for Newmarket, Copping tackling for Soham. A good tempo to the game dictated by Newmarket push on Grundy with O’Connell the ball sent into the box looking for Stackhouse to make the run from the left, Fulford out smartly to the top of her area to claim for Soham.

Newmarket’s Bryony O’Connell

20 minutes played Soham getting the ball into Pearce looking for options, Katie Levitt on the move right side the ball played in across the top of the area cleared by Sarpong. Pearce nipping in to snatch the ball in the middle out to Levitt on the right put on quickly looking to release Firek, again the offside flag goes up against her. Linger sending a diagonal ball from deep on the right up towards the top of the box, Quinn-Nicholls heading it clear for Soham.

Mcallister bringing the ball on left for Soham put on up the flank for Firek, Caffarelli tackling for Newmarket play turned around quickly, O’Connell out too Stackhouse left side her cross flashed into the box,, headed away to the right by Mcallister. Bithell in the middle turning the ball into the box for Shelford to the left of goal her effort fired wide past the far post. Half an hour played, Dunn with the challenge to deny Bithell on the right as Linger plays the ball down the line.

Clarke finding Levitt on the right taking the ball on Charles stepping up to close her down, O’Connell sending the ball up towards the Soham box, Copping intercepts forwards into Mcallister, looks to get it to Penny, Grundy tackling for Newmarket, time on the ball at a premium. Quinn-Nicholls seeing the ball safely back to the keeper as Newmarket attack the channel. A change for Soham with Ester McTrusty coming on replacing Dunn.

Newmarket’s Lily Grundy with Soham’s Carla Penny

Play paused due to a pitch invasion over on the far side of the pitch a momma duck and her brood of baby ducklings, escorted from the playing area, a first for me in a cup final game.

The feathered pitch invaders escorted from the pitch.

A little under 10 minutes left in the first half Newmarket on top getting players on Soham working hard at the back to keep them out. Quigley getting in a block, Copping winning her fair share of tackles. Bithell lively looking to get on with the ball, winning a throw high on the right. Soham countering Mcallister with Pearce on the left getting a throw, on for Penny racing on with the ball to get into the box left side, Sarpong across getting on her shoulder initially holding the attacker up, Penny managing to get a shot away lacks pace as goalkeeper, Mairi Robinson has it covered down low at her near post to claim.

Soham defender’s Jodie Copping and Lizzie Quigley

The ball helped on up the pitch right side for Soham off of a free-kick sees Firek run in behind, Robinson alert though out quickly to the top of her area to smother the ball before the attacker can pounce. The Newmarket goalkeeper busy all of a sudden as she makes a blocking save as a shot is struck in from the angle to the right, Penny onto the loose ball sending it wide at the near post.

GOAL! Space opens up in front of Linger as she take the ball on plays a delightful diagonal ball into the box, Bithell running in central meeting it sending it on past the keeper to double Newmarket’s lead with 3 minutes of regular play left in the first half 0-2.

Cerys Bithell celebrated as she fires Newmarket into a 2 goal lead

Soham conceding late in the first half get the ball on for Firek right channel as she beats the offside flag this time, Sarpong and Charles both getting back at her before she can make it count.

Soham midfielder, Emily Clarke

GOAL! Newmarket with the sucker punch right at the end of the first half Bithell receiving the ball central on the move playing it to the left for Stackhouse continuing her run into the D to take on the return pass left of the D, pulls the trigger driving the ball in past the keeper to the left of her goal to make it 0-3.

Cerys Bithell striking a 2nd to put Newmarket in charge late in the 1st half

Newmarket on top half hearted appeals for a penalty as Quigley goes in to challenge Stackhouse. A wild volley over from Shelford as the ball in cleared out to her from a cross on the left. Kirby-Cook on for Stackhouse left her cross long cleared by Quigley.

Half-time Soham Town Rangers Ladies 0-3 Newmarket Town Women Development

Two goals from Cerys Bithell putting Newmarket in full control of the final as the two teams head back to the changing rooms. The perfect start too as Newmarket struck home the opener inside 4 mins, Evie Stackhouse the scorer. Newmarket using the whole pitch effective in the channels getting the ball on quickly with willing runners have caused problems for Soham whose own opportunities up the other end have been limited as a result still a 1-0 down would have been comfortable in looking to get back into the game, two late goals putting a very different complexion on the game. Now alot of work to do to get back into it.

Switching sides for the 2nd half coming over to the stand side, Newmarket out early keen to get the game restarted, Soham you would think will need a goal back sooner rather than later if they are to fight their way back into the game and as it opens up more, Newmarket’s young attackers will be able to exploit the space. Newmarket making a change at the break, Abbi Griffin coming on replacing Kirby-Cook. Soham unchanged, McTrusty on late in the first half. Newmarket getting the 2nd half underway the ball into linger at the back played long up towards the top of the area, defended by Copping.

Soham get the ball on for McTrusty attacking on the left, holding the ball up lays it back up the line to Mcallister to fire a ball in across the top of the area, knocked down into the area, Robinson sharp out to snatch it up into her gloves before Firek can steal in. The game continuing very much as the first half Newmarket looking to get the ball into the channels at every opportunity, winning a throw on the right, Griffin operating on that flank coming inside a shot turned wide at the near post.

Abbi Griffin on at the start of the 2nnd half for Newmarket

Penny up to Firek on the right Charles getting the foot in to prevent her skipping inside with the ball. Another pitch incursion the ducks are back, play stopped no one wants to see a duckling squashed by the ball, McTrusty ushering them off the pitch momma duck not happy reluctant to go, the referee taking charge, Williamson escorting the brood off the pitch. Play resuming.

Pitch invaders

The thing’s you have to do in grassroots football

Pearce sending the ball on for Penny coming left on for McTrusty driving down the wing. Linger back at her preventing the cross back up to Penny, Grundy closing her down. Griffin providing the outlet on the right ready to take the ball on as Newmarket battle to close Soham down in the middle. Caffarelli with a vital interception through the middle as Mcallister looks to send Penny in behind the defence. The ball popping about as players rush to close it down, Newmarket not giving Soham time on the ball. Clarke into Penny bursts on with the ball into the left channel looking to play McTrusty on but no cross as Linger comes in with the tackle.

Carla Penny

McTrusty giving Soham a little more thrust in attack making a run central pressuring Sarpong, but she stays strong to keep her away from goal. Oh no the ducks are back don’t know where to go no one tod them a final was on. The referee once again taking charge with a helpful spectator stationed in the corner to prevent any further incursions. Soham with a corner on the right a good ball into the near side helped on across goal attacked by Mcallister diverting it goal wards striking Grundy as she goes to block skipping up and taken well by Robinson. Grundy down but after treatment okay to continue.

Newmarket midfielder, Lily Gundy

McTrusty firing an early cross into the top of the area knocked into the box by Firek, Robinson out quickly too the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Changes for Soham with Elsie Holroyd Davison and Maddie Cooper on replacing, Quigley and Mcallister. Cooper straight into the action holding the ball up on the right wining her side a corner kick. The delivery lifted into the box headed clear by Sarpong.

Soham’s Rachel Pearce

Soham looking to throw more players forwards, Pearce getting the ball on linking up with Penny moving left on for McTrusty she comes inside doesn’t get a shot away before being closed down by Sarpong. Newmarket making changes bringing off Stackhouse and O’Donnell on come Holly Corley and Lexie Moody on with a little over an hour played.

Newmarket defender Jazmine Sarpong

GOAL! Griffin in the clear in space on the right picked out with the cross-field ball takes it down before firing an cross into the top of the area, Bithell left of the d striking the ball caught sweetly rising, Fulford throwing an arm up to try and stop it, doesn’t get enough on the ball dropping over her into the back of the net to see Newmarket extend their lead and Bithell to claim a cup final hat-trick 0-4.

Cerys Bithell scoring a cup final hat-trick to put Newmarket 4-0 up

The game getting a little scrappy stretched at times Soham trying to get the ball forwards, Firek taking it on form Cooper right channel Caffarelli across to put in the challenge. Griffin disciplined out on the right waiting for the ball to come to her taking it on to the by-line digging a cross out, taken by Fulford at her near post low. Penny taking the ball on central picks out McTrusty 20 yards out left of the D, Linger in to block her strike deflected behind for the corner kick.

Olivia Caffarelli

Pearce to sent the ball in from the left, attacked by Copping heading it down towards the left post blocked by the defender on the line. The game opening up often condensed on the far side, Griffin staying out of it ready to go as the diagonal ball gets sent out her way taking it on strikes on the angle from 25 yards her vicious strike dropping back into play off the crossbar.

Alex Shelford and Emily Clarke

Penny central seeing the ball into her feet holding it up before threading it in behind for McTrusty, Robinson rushing out to the top of her area to kick the ball clear. Quinn-Nicholls defending at the back for Soham seeing the ball safely back to her keeper as Bithell looks for Corley left side. Into the final 20 minutes, Cooper right on the ball for Soham into Firek inside to Penny, Linger defending for Newmarket volleying the ball away.

The offside flag raised to deny Newmarket a 5th goal as the ball is fired in across goal from the left. Firek looking to find a way through the Newmarket defence but can’t get the better of Sarpong. Quinn-Nicholls there to clear top of the box as Corley sends a cross in from the left in ahead of Griffin. Shelford off for Newmarket, Keely Cole on.

Soham’s Kara Firek

Into the final quarter hour Griffin onto a diagonal ball getting on into the box right, Copping across to make the challenge the ball deflected back to the keeper. Griffin again out on the right flashing a cross in along the top of the area, no one can make contact, Newmarket keeping it on the left. Quigley back on for Soham, Caffarelli and Sarpong stand up well to trap Cooper offside as McTrusty looks to play it over the top.

Griffin wide shooting across goal 25 yards out Fulford dropping forwards onto the ball. Soham clearing the ball off their line as Newmarket attack left side into the box Fulford diving it at the feet of the attacker the ball looping up across goal cleared by Copping. Linger pushed up into midfield now adding to the attacking threat. Fulford coming out to the right of her area to dive in for the ball as Newmarket attack from the left collides with the attacker both down appeals for a penalty but nothing doing.

Newmarket captain, Jess Linger

Both players treated with 85 minutes on the clock both ok to continue. Fulford plucking a looping cross down into her gloves as Moody plays it in from the left. Newmarket in charge late in the game players coming on looknig for a 5th goal winning a corner on the left an in swinger dealt with Fulford at her near post. Grundy finding Griffin on the right fires a dangerous ball in across the six yard box no one getting a touch sent back in from the left the keeper claiming it.

Soham goalkeeper, Caitlin Fulford

Holroyd Davison with the ball left side on for McTrusty, closed down by Grundy back inside to Pearce across to Firek in the right channel tackled by Sarpong. Countering the ball into Griffin right her early cross taken cleanly by Fulford. Griffin central bringing the ball under control top of the D shifts it to left to shot lacking the power behind it Fulford down behind it. Into stoppage time. Corley left inside for Linger looks for Griffin right, Holroyd Davison with a foot out too intercept. Newmarket finishing strong to win the Junior Invitation Cup and make it back to back trophy winning season’s

Full -time Soham Town Rangers Ladies 0-4 Newmarket Town Women Development

Newmarket effectively in control of the game from start to finish, taking an early lead got players on well used the channels had willing runners keeping Soham penned back limiting their chances as a result doubling the lead then the hammer blow of 3rd on the stroke of half-time. Could be patient 2nd half Soham looking to try and get a goal back never gained any momentum pegged further back on the hour as Cerys Bithell completed her hat-trick. 4-0 Newmarket made changes to keep thing’s fresh and refused to let their opponents get a foot hold in the game. A tough defeat for Soham losing their 1st cup final but are an emerging force for women’s football in Cambridgeshire and will be challenging for more finals.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, this one a fairly simple call but there were of course several performances of note across the pitch. A tough game for Soham, busy in defence and Jodie Copping got in the blocks and tackles throughout. Kara Firek leading the line worked tirelessly to try and find an opening. Easter McTrusty making impact coming on from the bench to take the ball on in attack. Newmarket were energised despite this being their 3rd game in 5 days, using the width of the pitch got after the ball, Jazmine Sarpong was in mood to let anyone get past her defending strongly throughout. Jess Linger defended well at full back using the ball well going forwards. Lily Grundy keeping Newmarket on the front foot getting onto the ball in the middle, Evie Stackhouse and Alex Shelford with some good attacking runs looking to create opening, Stackhouse with the opening goal. The award go to the Cerys Bithell no mean feat to score a hat-trick in a cup final her goals putting Newmarket in control of the game took them well.

Newmarket Town Women Development, 2025/26 Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup winners

Congratulations to Newmarket Town Women Development on winning the 2025/26 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Newmarket celebrating with their mascots and no doubt a few feature cup winners among them too

That’s the cup finals completed in Cambridgeshire another entertaining game. My thanks to Chris Abbott and the rest of the staff at Cambs FA for all their assistance and allowing me to cover the games. Thanks to both teams for the team details. Onto Carrow Road, this Sunday for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final.

by Darren Gilham

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Monthly Archives: May 2026

Cup Final Special – Aylsham FC Women v Costessey Sports Ladies

Sunday 17th May

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

Cup Final Special – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies Reserves v UEA FC Women

Sunday 17th May

Norfolk Women’s League Plate Final

Cup Final Special – Harpenden Town Women v Stevenage FC Women

Sunday 10th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Cup Final Special – Wroxham Women v Haringey Borough Women

Sunday 10th May

ERWFL League Plate Final

Cup Final Special – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 3rd May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

Cup Final Special – Soham Town Rangers Ladies v Newmarket Town Women Development

Thursday 30th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Final