Monthly Archives: September 2026

Match Report – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Soham Town Rangers Ladies

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Sunday 27th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One

 Back to Cambridgeshire this Sunday to take in my first game from the county leagues in the East. From Division One as Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds finally get their league campaign underway host Soham Town Rangers Ladies. 

 There are some interesting county league divisions across the east this season, Division One in Cambridgeshire no exception, several tasty looking match-ups to look forward to over the season with no clear favourite, certainly a few contenders with 12 sides competing.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds are the longest established club without a break competing in Cambridgeshire, won the Division One title two season’s ago to and with it have a stab at playing at regional level in the ERWFL. Ultimately wasn’t to be, gave it their all but with 3 sides set to come down it’s a tough league to consolidate yourself in. Relegated but all the better for the experience the danger was in keeping the squad which has to be fair always been a close knit group together.

 That they have done have a rich history with experienced players at this level, A potent strike force when their confidence is high aren’t setting any goals for the new campaign, will be considered one of the favourites for the title but the aim is to just get back to enjoying the football and see where that takes them. The season in Cambridgeshire entering it’s 3rd week, Fulbourn have yet to get going despite an early exit in the FA Cup have prepared for two league outings only for both to be called off, so find themselves starting their season over, keen to hit the ground running.

 Soham Town Rangers Ladies are up and running, making their debut in the FA Cup losing out to Cambridge City Women have gotten their league games in a draw and a narrow defeat so far. Relative newcomers rising up the league the core of the old Isleham United Ladies side moving to Soham Town Rangers FC keen to get involved with a women’s side providing strong support, signed a number of experienced players at this level rising up to Division One last season.

 Finishing 6th in their debut season in Division One are looking to become an established force at that level get amongst the title challengers. Also reached their first ever cup final last season the Junior Invitation Cup losing out to Newmarket Town Women Development. Have been several player departures over the summer with a good turn around of the squad but new faces coming in too, the women’s section still retaining its two sides. Several of those new faces featuring in the Newmarket side that beat Soham in the final with dead ball specialist Jess Linger joining along with attackers, Evie Stackhouse and Eden Kirby-Cook and goalkeeper Mairi Robinson. 

 The Fulbourn Recreation Ground the venue for today’s game, has been too long since I was last here. A multi-sports venue with clubhouse and carpark leading out to the sports pitches and pavilion, the football pitches to the rear a long way from the changing rooms a little worn in places with the dry summer, the grass pitch offering good width. A warm end to September close but a good amount of cloud cover around wasn’t expecting a shower before kick-off but I’ve been doing this for a while and the rucksack is usually equipped with both sun cream and an umbrella just in case.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Verity Crook, Amy Smith, Lydia Mason, Jess Anderson, Catherine Henderson, Grace Muffett, Hollie Colling, Marie Stubbings (C), Katie Chaudhry, Ebony Crook & Eleanor Woodley. Subs – Daniella Quinn, Bronte Rapley, Amelia Thompson & Freya Turner.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Soham Town Rangers Ladies starting XI – Mairi Robinson, Chloe Dunn, Elsie Holroyd Davison, Amelie Kent, Hannah Marsh, Jess Linger, Rachel Pearce. Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls (C), Emelia Bates, Eden Kirby-Cook & Evie Stackhouse. Subs – Ester McTrusty, Kara Firek & Eloise Booty.

Soham Town Rangers Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Marie Stubbings and Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls with today’s match referee Rocco D’Ammaro

The rain largely gone with the sides lining up for kick-off, Verity Crook in goal for Fulbourn persuaded to don the gloves after packing it in 9 season’s ago (really doesn’t feel that long) a wealth of experience coming in as goalkeeping cover having played for 4th tier side Cambridge United WFC. Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls captaining Soham a quality keeper in her own right having featured for Soham and Newmarket previously in that position, outfield now an extremely versatile player. Marie Stubbings captaining Fulbourn. Soham to get the 1st half underway wearing green and white vertical striped shirts with green shorts and socks, Fulbourn lined up opposite wearing an all navy kit with white trim.

The ball rolled back to captain Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls in the middle looks to lift it out to the right wing for Emelia Bates to attack, Lydia Mason dealing with it for Fulbourn at left back the ball pressed right away in the middle both sides rushing in to gain possession the ball popping back and forth, favours Soham as Bates looks to gain ground on the wing high her cross charged down, Fulbourn immediately on the counter the ball clipped on for Katie Chaudhry on the right side gets her foot under the ball lifting a high diagonal ball up into her opponents box, bouncing up off the turf in front of the six yard box an awkward one for goalkeeper Mairi Robinson to deal with but plucks it down well safely into her gloves.

  Fulbourn getting players forwards quickly with intent captain Marie Stubbings through the middle with Ebony Crook left, Eleanor Woodley running into the right channel, winning a corner out on the left curled into the box, Soham with numbers back to defend, Elsie Holroyd Davison getting her head on the ball to clear. The visitors playing the ball up to Rachel Pearce turns it on for Bates surging on up the right wing, her cross cut out by Fulbourn centre back, Catherine Henderson. 

Fulbourn defender, Catherine Henderson

 Eden Kirby Cook taking the ball out to the right for Soham squaring a cross into Evie Stackhouse right of the D, goes to attack it on the volley skipping up just as she connects the ball not hit cleanly running wide across goal out to the left. Hollie Colling tackling in the middle winning the ball for Fulbourn, Stubbings looking to feed off her take the ball on the hosts with a good understanding the through ball for Woodley bursting into the right channel over hit. 

An open game played at a frantic pace the ball toing and froing between both sides, Holroyd Davison finding Bates high on the right her cross in close to the near post caught by Fulbourn keeper, Verity Crook. Competitive some aggressive challenges across the pitch, Jess Anderson fouling Stackhouse in the middle, both getting a talking too from the referee. Jess Linger to take sends a long ball up into the area, Crook behind it all the way collecting on the bounce. Grace Muffett in the middle for Fulbourn with Colling put on for Stubbings, attempts to put it over the top for Crook with Soham’s defence high a vital interception from Chloe Dunn for the visitors. 

 Anderson cutting out a cross for Fulbourn as Kirby Cook turns it on for Bates bursting away on the right. Colling on for Stubbings through the middle, plays it in behind, Crook and Woodley both evading the offside flag, Robinson reacting quickly rushing out of her area to clear. Stubbings carrying the ball on puts the pass into Woodley breaking in behind pulled down outside the box to the left of the D, the free-kick awarded. Ebony Crook over it goes for goal her effort over the bar from 20 yards. 

 Fulbourn gaining some momentum looking to have a fluid understanding going forwards, winning a through high on the left, the cross forced into the near post Hannah Marsh getting her foot in first to scramble it away from danger before Woodley can pounce. Soham getting a little frustrated on the side-lines as they a penalised for another free-kick on the left, played into Chaudhry top of the D, her touch a little strong, gives Quinn-Nicholls the opportunity to steal in to intercept launch it clear.

Soham captain, Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls

 Up to Bates, whipping a cross into the area from the right claimed by Crook. From the resulting counter attack, Woodley making the run into the channel looks to play in Chaudhry on the right, just a little too much weight behind it. Colling putting herself about for Fulbourn winning the ball central getting her team on the move in attack Ebony Crook with the ball looking to get away on the left, tackled by Soham’s Dunn the ball out for a throw. 

Fulbourn’s Hollie Colling

 Quinn-Nicholls central linking up with Pearce the ball on for Kirby Cook, cut out by Anderson for the hosts. Fulbourn quicker to the 2nd ball getting players on through the middle Stubbings taking it on from Colling rolled on into the box, Robinson getting there to clear as Woodley rushes in to close her down. A lively opening 20 minutes Fulbourn putting the Soham defence under a little pressure, the hosts defence winning the ball back, Anderson and Henderson both winning challenges, Pearce with the ball for Soham her pass turned on for Kirby Cook right side her cross cut out by Anderson.

  Pressure from Stubbings running forwards as Woodley receiving the ball from Colling right side turns it on in behind for her captain to chase wining a corner kick. Curled in central, Stubbings looking to get in under control around the penalty spot, Kirby Cook getting her foot in to clear for Soham. Robinson making the save for Soham as Stubbings plays it on for Woodley racing into the area right of goal. 

Mairi Robinson getting down to make the save

 The referee awarding a hand ball to Fulbourn some 35 yards out to the right as the ball is fired into towards the box. Soham making a change bringing off Stackhouse up top sending on Kara Firek. Fulbourn’s Chaudhry over the set-piece firing a diagonal ball in through the Soham area towards the far post, a good ball in no one able to run onto it out for the goal kick. Free-kicks breaking up play Soham feeling they are not going there way. Colling and Muffett fighting for the ball in the middle for the hosts freeing up Stubbings to get on join the attack, Mason getting back at Bates on the right to deny the cross. Muffett fouled central, Henderson putting the ball on up into the box for Fulbourn, Kent defending for Soham.

Soham’s Amelia Kent

  A good contest between the captains Stubbings spinning off Quinn-Nicholls outside the box, Quinn-Nicholls stretching snapping back at her the ball turned back towards goal, close to an own goal but cleared in the nick of time. The pace fast, Fulbourn getting their attacking players on quicker exerting more pressure, Bates the outlet for Soham on the right the visitors not getting as many up in support in their attacks Anderson and Henderson for the large part winning the ball back, Crook in goal composed.

GOAL! Fulbourn quick to get an attack moving through the middle the ball played up to Woodley she turns it on for Chaudhry making a run into the right channel a great first touch seeing her cut back inside across the top of the D 20 yards out catching the ball sweetly shoots, the ball rising inside the right post past the diving keeper before she can get there 1-0.

Katie Chaudhry lining up the strike for Fulbourn

 Fulbourn opening the scoring just past the half hour mark, Soham on the back foot, Quinn-Nicholls winning the free-kick as she looks to combine with Pearce through the middle. top of the centre circle Linger over it looks to play it on in towards goal at the far post, Crook behind it all the way collecting unopposed. Woodley played on down the right flank, but on her own as Marsh doubles up with Holroyd Davison to defend for the visitors. 

Soham’s Elsie Holroyd Davison

 Fulbourn getting on top wining the ball in the middle Colling finding Woodley on the right p with Chaudhry taking it to the by-line her cross into the near post Ebony Crook running in the attack halted by the raised offside flag. Soham making a double change bringing off Marsh and Holroyd Davison shuffling the pack as Eloise Booth and Ester McTrusty enter the action. Quinn-Nicholls dropping back into defence. 

 Crook claiming the ball off of a Linger free-kick wide on the right as Bates is up ended, the ball launched upfield to Ebony Cook straying offside. 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half Fulbourn winning the ball at the back, Colling with some useful forward passes, Stubbings running on looking to join the attack. Anderson dealing with a difficult bouncing ball top of the area as Kirby Cook looks to apply pressure. Kent diving in to take the ball out for a throw as Ebony Crook looks to take it on down Fulbourn’s left.

GOAL!  Fulbourn cut open the Soham defence, Colling with the inch perfect pass to play Stubbings on through on goal central taking the ball on into the box gets her shot away past the onrushing keeper before she can set herself and turns away in celebration as she doubles the lead opening her account for the season 2-0.

Marie Stubbings wheels away in celebration as she doubles Fulbourn’s lead

  Mason being kept on her toes by Bates on Soham’s right, closing her down well this time to deny the cross. Chaudhry wide right seeing the ball into her feet turning it on for Stubbngs as she surges past her on the overlap into the box right of goal shooting on the angle her attempt held low by the keeper as Robinson gets down behind the ball to save. 

 Dunn in to close Ebony Crook down as Mason finds her with the pass on the left the ball out for a throw. Robinson out well to deal with the threat as Woodley looks to set up Stubbings for Fulbourn. The host defence having more time at the back Soham not getting players on in numbers often able to double up Smith with support from Anderson as Kirby Cook looks to find a way through on the left.

Captains, Marie Stubbings and Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls

  Dunn lunging in to tackle Ebony Crook as Woodley attempts to turn the ball over the top to her through the middle. Firek, combining with Bates and Booth for Soham as they build an attack on the right late in the first half the cross fired in top of the area too strong for Kirby Cook racing out to the left retrieved by Pearce gets a shot away from distance collected by Crook from all of 30 yards out. Into the closing seconds as Bates gets on Henderson’s shoulder right trying to burst into the box, Crook racing out to slide in blocks the shot at her feet.

Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 2-0 Soham Town Rangers Ladies

  Fulbourn with a deserved 2-0 lead at the break, getting players forwards with intent creating opportunities in front of goal and asking Soham questions. A side familiar with each others play the ball won in the middle put on in the final 3rd. The break through coming on the half hour with a great touch and strike from Katie Chaudhry for Fulbourn’s first goal of the season. Hollie Collin putting captain Marie Stubbings in on goal to double the lead. Soham getting a little disjointed as the half wore on feeling they weren’t getting the rub of the green, getting the ball on well enough but not using it as effectively in the final 3rd. Both sides staying out during the interval, Fulbourn will be looking for more of the same, Soham with a few issues to address if they are to get themselves back into the game and at 2-0 the next goal is often the most vital.

 The visitors making changes to personnel and position at the start of the 2nd half Marsh back on for McTrusty moving up top to join the attack, Bates dropping to right back with Dunn over on the left side of defence. Fulbourn to get the 2nd half underway making a change too on the right with Chaudhry off replaced by Freya Turner. The ball into Colling out to Smith on the right, Soham quick to press the ball forced back to the keeper, Crook launching it up field. Bates with the ball travelling up the right for Soham fed on for Firek into the wing, takes the ball on, Mason staying with her well not giving away any room for the cross the ball out for a throw.

  Soham with numbers up working the throw into a cross dealt with by Fulbourn’s Henderson inside the box. Fulbourn counter the pass on for Turner breaking up the right her shot on the angle hooked into the side netting. Marsh pushing on from a diagonal ball played into her path top of the box, scuffs her shot seeing it lack the pace to trouble Crook in the Fulbourn goal. Bates getting back at Ebony Crook on the left taking the ball off the attacker as she breaks for the by-line out for a corner kick. 

Ebony Crook holding off Rachel Pearce

 Crook herself to take the corner a great ball in curled into the near post, striking the upright deflected across the goal face half cleared at the far post falling to Stubbings top of the area to the right of goal firing it back in wide of the near post. Woodley and Ebony Crook combine up on the right exchanging passes, Crook falling back as she goes to pull the trigger screwing her shot away from goal. Frantic at times both sides wanting to get the ball moving, Linger into Pearce, her pass to Firek right side intercepted by Anderson.

Soham’s Jess Linger

  End to end as Fulbourn counter with pace out to Ebony Crook over on the right taking on the shot on the volley from the angle driven in smashes against the crossbar. Fulbourn getting on top Soham with all their positional changes a little disjointed. Ebony Crook with an ambitious diagonal pass over the top form the left looking to send Turner away through to attack the box from the right, Robinson has to come running out of her area to clear the ball. 

 Pearce seeing the ball into her feet in attack for Soham looking to make something happen old the ball up get players up around her  outside the box, Henderson in to close her down tackling from behind winning the ball. Fulbourn making another switch with Daniella Quinn coming on to replace Muffett in the middle. 

 Fulbourn winning another free-kick deep on the right much to the annoyance of the Soham bench, Crook over it sending a flighted ball in on goal, cleared on the line by Kent for the visitors. Getting a bit feisty, Marsh and Anderson tangling as the attacker tries to get into the box, as Crook comes to scoop up the ball. Tensions high the referee having a word with the Soham coaches as another decision goes against them. Make a change with Linger coming off, Holroyd Davison back into the action. 

  End to end as Kent clears long at one end forcing Crook to come running out of her area to kick clear as Firek looks to run it down. Soham putting themselves about looking to apply more pressure in the final 3rd, Fulbourn not getting the joy through the middle they had in the 1st half, win a corner on the left, Crook to curl it into the near post again this time Robinson covering the angle can see it land in the side netting. 

Rachel Pearce

 Marsh powering on towards the box right of goal getting a shot away, Crook right behind it back on her line. Henderson defends on Firek as the striker looks to get on her shoulder drive towards the box. McTrusty back on for Soham out on the left. Mason taking a ball to the stomach nursing the blow as Fulbourn make a substitution, Ebony Crook coming off, Amelia Thompson coming on midway through the 2nd half. Woodley over on the left whipping a cross on the angle into the six yard box just a little too high for Turner running in at the far post out for the goal kick.

Fulbourn’s Eleanor Woodley

  The game is stretched Fulbourn feeling an urgency to get a 3rd goal effectively put the game to bed, Soham scrapping looking for the opening at the other end, Pearce getting amongst it to hold up the ball finding herself closed down from all sides 20 yards out as Booth makes the run beyond her. Booth and Pearce linking up moments later the ball sent on into the box with Firek racing on on the keeper, just a little too high Crook unfazed taking it cleanly. 

 Woodley nicks the ball off the Soham back line top of the D but as she goes to strike it it takes a wicked bobble seeing the half volley miscued wide of goal. Mason struggling from her earlier blow coming off for Fulbourn with Muffett returning to the action. Stubbings deeper in the 2nd half tackling Booth as she brings the ball on into the final 3rd. Quinn over to the left playing the ball up the line for Woodley inside for Thompson, Bates winning the challenge for Soham bringing the ball on played on for Firek, Muffett cutting it out for the hosts.

  Quinn-Nicholls pushing up for Soham sends it on through the middle for Pearce, Crook reading it however quick to react out to get hold of the ball first. Fulbourn continue their push to find a 3rd goal sees Stubbing break right with the ball on with Turner the cross flashed in across the face of the Soham goal, Woodley throwing herself at it on the on the line can’t quite get there as Bates turns it away for a throw on the left. 

 McTrusty in to press Quinn on the ball left side as she looks to find the attackers for Fulbourn. Another free-kick to the hosts wide right sees the ball driven in to the corner of the area striking a Soham hand another set-piece given. Colling over it 25 yards out drive a rasping shot in low across the face of goal out past the far post. The game moving into the final 10 minutes, Soham moving players around looking to find a telling formula, Booth left side on for McTrusty wide on for Marsh central, Muffett getting across her path to see the ball back to her keeper. 

 Stubbings across to take Fulbourn’s corner on the left with Crook off the field, whipped into the near post defended by Dunn out for a 2nd corner. This one flashed on across the face of goal cleared at the far post. Muffett doing the defensive work for Fulbourn strong against Marsh as she attempts to force her way into the box. Marsh coming off soon after with Kirby Cook back on, Bates moving from right back to take up an attacking role on the left. 

 Pearce seeing the ball into her feet sending it on for Firek right side wide of the box digs the cross out looping into the box, hooked clear by Smith for Fulbourn, Pearce winning the ball back top of the area sends it back in Crook gathering safely.

GOAL! into the final 5 minutes of the game stretched with all the changes both sides have made Soham with the ball fed out to the left in behind, Bates evading the offside flag to race on with the ball full of pace taking on the shot early driving a vicious ball low under the diving keeper before she can set herself to find the back of the net with her first goal for the club 2-1.

Emelia Bates through on goal to pull a goal back for Soham

 A double change for Fulbourn with Woodley and Colling coming off, Bronte Rapley and Chaudhry coming on, Soham with a goal back setting up a nervy finish to an already frantic contest. McTrusty left taking the ball on seeing her cross snubbed out away for a throw as Soham look to apply late pressure. Bates left side outside the box firing in a shot as the Fulbourn defence back pedal, blocked by Muffett more in the way than anything else. 

 The goal from Soham unsettling Fulbourn, questions over whether Bates was onside or not was given none the less. Kirby Cook with a snap shot 20 yards out held by Crook. The Fulbourn keeper looking to clam things down give her side time to compose themselves. Anderson winning the header inside her box as Soham send the ball long with 4 minutes of stoppage time to be played. 

GOAL! Out of nothing Soham get themselves back on level terms at the death, Crook out wide o the right post in her six yard box waiting for the attacker to run in to pick up the ball shielding it as Firek obliges wanting to get on with the game takes the ball out of the keepers fingers before she has it under control and turns inside to walk the ball in across the face of goal and slot it home before the onrushing defenders can get back, is pulled back as she goes to celebrate Soham equalise in dramatic fashion 2-2.

Kara Firek scoring the late equaliser for Soham

 Controversial too as Firek having been pulled back after scoring something must have been said over at the Soham bench as the referee rushes over to brandish the red card to their manager send him form the touch line. Little time left a huge blow for Fulbourn unsettled from the first goal conceding a 2nd so quickly hardly any time left to find a reply, the ball back with Soham as the pacy Bates breaks left wing to the by-line lifting a cross into the box, Kirby Cook running onto it lifting her shot over the bar. Fulbourn with a last gasp corner out on the right bouncing in across goal cleared Soham break, Quinn defending as the final whistle blows and the points are shared.

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 2-2 Soham Town Rangers Ladies

Fulbourn for the large part in control of the game for 85 minutes with chances to extend their lead not taken a 3rd goal most certainly sealing the 3 points. Soham kept plugging away mixing it up trying to find a way through on goal, Bates switched over to the left wing put in behind no flag to shoot early pull a goal back for the visitors, unsettled Fulbourn who had little time to regroup as miscue from the keeper leading to Kara Firek stealing the ball and sending it into the back of the empty net at the death to secure a point. Tough on Fulbourn but finally getting their season started have plenty of positives from their 1st outing in the league. Soham struggled to get a foot hold in the game 1st half, fought hard in the 2nd to try and find a way back rode their luck but stuck at it kept going till the end will gain plenty of confidence from their late goals.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders but one did emerge early on as my standout. Performances on both sides, firstly for Soham, Emilia Bates was a handful all game her pace and dribbling setting her apart as the ready outlet for the ball, dropping back into defence 2nd half doing the job before being unleashed on the left to score. Rachel Pearce getting about the final 3rd trying her best too get the ball into her attackers, Elli-Rai Quinn-Nicholls working hard to close the ball down in both midfield and defence. Chloe Dunn making several winning challenges at the back. For Fulbourn both Catherine Henderson and Jess Anderson won the ball well in defence tackles and interceptions, captain Marie Stubbings with some defence splitting passes and runs especially in the 1st half. Katie Chaudhry doing well on the right some great touches took her goal well to open the scoring. The award goes to midfielder, Hollie Colling won the ball in middle getting about the park, set the tone to a degree for Fulbourn in the first half with some excellent passes.

 A great first taste of county league action of the season, good to catch up with both sides, Cambridgeshire Division One will be an interesting watch this season for sure. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always greatly appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Histon Women v Wroxham Women

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Sunday 20th September

Women’s FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round

Heading into Cambridgeshire this Sunday to catch some action from the 2nd Qualifying Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup. The sides from tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid entering the competition at this stage and it’s an all ERWFL Premier Division clash with Norfolk side, Wroxham Women travelling to play newly promoted Histon Women.

 95 ties on total with so tasty looking clashes on offer, the prize money although still no where near the men’s competition improving in recent season’s today’s winners collecting £3,500 with the losing side taking away £1,500. A good run in the Women’s FA Cup for any grassroots side offering a huge financial boost.

 The ERWFL Premier Division sides entering the competition at the 2nd Qualifying Round stage all having a 6 match unbroken run in the league to get their season’s underway. Histon and Wroxham already meeting once at Histon with the home side winning the contest 3-0.

 Now Histon Women as a pose to Ladies, promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division after a hugely successful campaign last season under the management of ex-Cambridge United WFC manager, Darren Marjoram. Winning the title with a 100% winning record not dropping a single point finishing 14 points clear of the rest of the pack and going on to beat Cambridge United WFC on penalties in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup to make it a double. Evie Nicholls rattling in the goals for Histon bagging 38 last season.

 Have retained much on that promotion winning squad as they move up to tier 5 a big step up in competition level. Tia Everdell joins the squad having previously been with St Ives. Also making the move to Histon this season, Tia Johnson and Remy Hudson-Clements both previously involved with the youth setup at Cambridge, Lauren Court back from university also joins along with 16-year-old Charlotte Freestone who has put in some impressive performances in Histon’s early season games. Were soundly returned to earth on the opening day going 5-0 down too established Premier Division side Haringey Borough. Bounced back well however drawing 1-1 at home to Royston Town Women, that the beginning of a run of home matches 5 to date picking up successive wins against St Albans City and then Wroxham followed by 2 draws against AFC Sudbury Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. Evie Nicholls once gain emerging as the top scorer with 4 so far.

 Wroxham Women are firmly established in the ERWFL Premier Division with ambition to win promotion up to the FAWNL. Enjoyed a successful campaign themselves last time out playing catch up with their fixtures to eventually finish 3rd in the table. Reached both the finals of the County Cup and League Plate, with mixed fortunes, winning the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time in their history, missing out on the League Plate though beaten by Haringey Borough Women.

  Evie Nicholls with the goals for Histon, Hannah Fuller playing for Histon is well established as one of the leading attackers in the Division prolific in front of goal over the season’s top scored last season with 21, has 3 to her name so far this season. Mixed results to start the season certainly not where they would want to be in the table losing 3 of their opening 6 fixtures a draw and a win in their last two outings giving them a little momentum coming back to face Histon. Have retained most of their squad from last season with a good blend of experience and young talent have added full back Ella Kruez to their ranks with Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women previously, Faith Wakefield makes the move to Wroxham have been with Ipswich academy. Millie Docking also signing on for the season having been with Cambridge United at youth level gaining good ERWFL experience with Newmarket Town Women.

 The Camtech & Caprice Stadium the venue for today’s tie, home to Histon FC and the Cambridgeshire FA headquarters. Features a large grass pitch in great condition these days offering plenty of width, a main seated elevated stand over the changing rooms with the bar open above. Seating along the opposite side of the pitch too with standing viewing at both ends. The weather set fair as we close in on autumn a light breeze but other wide bright and sunny.

Histon Women starting XI – Tara Fitzjohn, Charlotte freestone, Gabriella Giussani, Laura Leyland (C), Jessica McCrae, Molly Banks, Tia Everdell, Sophie Hopkin, Ella Marden, Tash Collins & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Mollie Childerley, Belle Howard, Tia Johnson, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Lauren Court, Remy Hudson-Clements & Sabrina Ghosh.

Histon Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Kruez, Holly Farrow, Tigi Robson (C), Elise Wade, Lily Alexander, Lauren Bullard, Rebecca Stephenson, Maddie Green, Hannah Fuller & Millie Docking. Subs – Faith Wakefield.

Wroxham Women

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

Captains, Laura Leyland and Tigi Robson with today’s match officials led by referee Graham Wilson

 Wroxham travelling back to Histon with a few unavailable through injury, suspension and other commitments, only able to name 1 of the allowed 7 substitutes on the bench. Missing a few of their more experienced players. Histon in comparison naming the full compliment on their bench, able to use 5 of their 7 substitutes. Goalkeeper Keeley Robinson unavailable for this afternoons match, Tara Fitzjohn a more than capable deputy donning the gloves. The sun high over one end of the ground might cause a few issues, Wroxham defending with it in their faces 1st half, the visitors taking the kick-off, wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shorts, black shorts and socks. 

  The back pushed back into midfield clipped long out to the right for Maddie Green to attack, Gabriella Giusanni defending the ball out for a throw, Wroxham press the ball high forcing an early corner kick and opportunity to get players up into the box. A good ball delivered into the box at an inviting high central headed on towards the far post, Charlotte Freestone covering the post blocking the ball on the line turned back out into the mix, Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson getting her head on the ball to drive into the back of the net but celebrations a cut short as the goal is ruled out due to an infringement. 

Charlotte Freestone blocking an early chance for Wroxham on the line

 An early warning for Histon, both sides starting brightly looknig to get after the ball get it forwards with pace, Molly Banks in the middle for Histon passed forwards into Sophie Hopkin 25 yards out holds the ball up as Charlotte Freestone makes a bursting run up the right the pass finding her feet as she drives on before whipping a cross into the area, Elise Wade up in defence to head clear for Wroxham. Both pressing some passes being rushed a little Histon pushing players on Tash Collins right and Ella Marden left looknig to get on to support Evie Nicholls in attack. 

 Freestone sending a diagonal pass long into the top of the D, again Wade gets her head on it for the visitors. Freestone looking to link up with Collins ahead of her on the right, the ball stabbed on down the line Collins looking to roll her marker, Holly Farrow in close not letting her get away stabbing a foot out to take ball off her feet out for a throw. The ball pinging about in the middle a spot of head tennis before Banks gets onto it to attempt a through ball into the right channel for Collins pulling off the Wroxham back-line just a little too much on it giving goalkeeper Bryony Williams the edge out to claim hold of the ball.

Wroxham’s Holly Farrow

  Wroxham dropping off in defence looking for the long ball out to relieve pressure give striker Hannah Fuller something to attack seeing the ball into her feet moving left turns well to get away from her marker drive for the penalty area, Jess McCrae recovering quickly getting back on her shoulder playing the ball off Fuller behind for the goal kick. A vital interception from Wade at the back as Nicholls looks to break in behind as the ball in played on from the left. End to end action Histon captain Laura Leyland with the headed clearance at one end sending the ball up over the Wroxham defence as they push up, Nicholls giving chase Williams forced to come rushing out to the corner of her area sliding in to clear the ball.

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller with Histon captain, Laura Leyland

  Histon lively quick to retrieve the ball, a good tempo look to get the ball forwards, a little too quickly sometimes. A big pitch players getting drawn across is space available to run into for the winger or full back that hang back. Competitive in the middle Banks for Histon and Lily Alexander for Wroxham giving no quarter closing down the ball, Tia Everdell bringing the ball away right side rolls in on for Collins in behind her cross snuffed out by Farrow. 

 Wade keeping a close watch on Nicholls, a crunching 50/50 between the pair, Histon come through the middle the ball forwards into Hopkin inside the D shifts it out to the left into Marden’s feet on the angle she takes on the strike drilling a low effort wide past the far post. Farrow putting the ball on for Fuller in attack as she breaks into the left wing getting past Leyland driving to the by-line sends the ball into the six yard box the cross intercepted by McCrae as Histon get it clear. 

Jess McCrae

  A good contest the sides evenly matched Wroxham working hard at the back prepared to concede ground allowing Hopkin to get on influence play in the final 3rd. Banks diving in with a strong tackle getting the ball on into Nicholls pulling into the right channel pace to take her in behind 20 yards out clips a rising shot on the angle up over the bar. 

 The game flowing well Wroxham getting a throw on the left played into Fuller left of the D, sends it on across the top of the area looking for striker partner Millie Docking, before she can turn into the shot Giusanni closes her down with the challenge the ball out to the wing, Maddie Green latching onto it for Wroxham powering forwards unleashing a vicious shot on the angle smashes against the crossbar and down back into play. Wroxham with players up keep hold of the ball Farrow left with Rebecca Stephenson the ball played central Lauren Bullard getting hold of it shooting from 25 yards her attempt blocked.

  Everdell coming right to support Freestone and Collins the latter played in down the line into the corner with the cut back to the top corner of the Wroxham box, Everdell there looking to hit it 1st time hits her strike up over the bar. The ball rarely motionless Bullard for Wroxham coming over to the left getting the ball from Farrow looking to drive in, Freestone lunging in to take the ball from her get Histon moving in the opposite direction. Back and forth in the middle, Alexander lifting it on through the middle, Leyland up well to head clear for Histon. 

Histon’s Charlotte Freestone

 Closing in on the half hour mark Histon on the attack Banks to Everdell forwards into Hopkin moving right looking to combine with Collins play the one two the return pass for Collins into the box a little to straight quickly gathered by Williams. The hosts almost appear too eager at times getting players on well enough but wasteful with the final ball. Alexander on through the middle for Wroxham into Bullard, McCrae defending for Histon the ball out to the right collected by Green up the wing banks across with the blocking tackle. Wroxham win a corner

kick.

 GOAL! Wroxham with plenty up into the box for the corner a great delivery curled in central at an inviting height, Kruez drifting in free to meet it with her head drive the ball past the keeper before she can react to send the visitors into the lead and score her 1st goal for the club in the process 0-1.

Ella Kruez central opening the scoring for Wroxham

Ella Kruez

Wroxham with their tails up from scoring press the ball winning in left Farrow taking it on from Stephenson powering up the wing, McCrae across to close her down lunging in to put the ball behind for another corner kick. This one from the left sent long across the area, Leyland up well to head it away from danger for the hosts. Bullard up on the right linking up with Farrow and Stephenson, Freestone with the timely foot to break up the move the ball out for a throw. 

Wroxham’s Rebecca Stephenson

  Wroxham caught a little light at the back having over committed in the earlier attack as Banks releases the ball for Everdell bursting into the right channel, Robson on her shoulder lunging in too take the ball off her feet out for the throw. Hopkin with a turn and hit from distance straight at the keeper. Wroxham attack left Stephenson up with Farrow the ball crossed in along the top of the D, Docking meeting it with her head a great knock down into the path of Fuller making a run inside to the left of goal, Fitzjohn out to close her down sliding in gets something on the ball but as it runs wide beyond her Fuller keeps on her feet looking to get around the ball to slide it into the net, a fantastic recovering run and slide from McCrae blocking the ball.

Histon’s Sophie Hopkin

 Wroxham with the momentum looking to finish the half strong. Fuller pulling away too the left looking to get the better of Freestone, initially getting past the youngster Freestone gets back at veteran striker in the box to slide in with a timely tackle to deny the shooting chance. Giusanni on for Marden on Histon’s left her diagonal ball intended for Nicholls central, Wade dropping off well to get onto the end of the pass deal with it for the visitors. Moving into stoppage time little to be played the game has flowed despite the competitive nature with the trainers from both sides not called upon.

Wroxham’s Elise Wade

 Green taking the ball on from Kruez up Wroxham’s right clipping a useful ball into the area, Bullard running in free to attack it looking to drop her header up and over the keeper, not quite as it drops safely into Fitzjohn’s gloves. 

 GOAL! Time almost up in the 1st half Histon mounting a late attack getting the ball on into Marden left in the final 3rd lifts her cross up into the box, clearing Nicholls jumping for it central, but not Collins drifting in unmarked beyond meeting it on the volley as it falls to send it back across the keeper to level up the scores with her 1st goal of the season 1-1.

Tash Collins levelling up the scores for Histon late in the 1st half

Half-time Histon Women 1-1 Wroxham Women

 Histon grabbing a late equaliser in the 1st half to see the two sides head back to the changing rooms all square at 1-1  at the break. Both sides busy throughout the ball hardly still the game flowing competitive, Wroxham sending an early warning across the hosts bows, Histon getting forwards well looking to get on the front foot Wroxham defending deeper, plenty of individual contests. Histon with some good build up play if a little rushed at times not quite executing the final ball. Wroxham defending well getting a set-piece up the other end on the half hour mark and sending in a good delivery to open the scoring. The visitors pushing hard for a 2nd after that the game end to end, Histon finding the break through with a well worked attack to get the cross in for Tash Collins to send home at the end of the half. Certainly has the feel of a proper cup tie. 

 No changes for either side at the break with Histon getting the 2nd half underway, the ball lifted long up through the middle, dealt with by Wroxham’s Wade. The 2nd period starting as the 1st finished both looking to get the ball up top quickly, Fuller the focal point for Wroxham, McCrae in to challenge win the ball back for Histon. 

GOAL! Histon bringing the ball on rapidly through the middle slid on up to Nicholls central turns the ball on into the box to the left of goal with Collins supplying the run her touch taking it past the advancing keeper and behind to slide the ball on into the empty net to fire Histon into the lead straight away in the 2nd half 2-1. 

Tash Collins going past the keeper to score her 2nd of the game

 Lively a few niggly fouls creeping in Hopkin looking for Nicholls in attack for Histon central turning on the ball is quickly closed down by 3 Wroxham defenders. Wade and Nichols tangling as the attacker looks to get on with the ball at her feet. Wroxham on the counter the ball over the top for Fuller to chase down left side, Fitzjohn rushing out to the top of her area, left corner sliding in to clear colliding with Fuller, appeals but the referee waves them away.

GOAL! Wroxham winning a free-kick out on the left level with the top of the Histon area, players coming forwards from the back, good movement as the ball is played in central on goal, Robson evading her marker to jump get her head onto the ball and nod it down past the diving keeper to find the back of the net for her 1st of the season and level the scores quickly after conceding 2-2. 

All action between two committed sides Histon looking to make ground on the left Banks holding up the ball upended awarded the free-kick as Wroxham protest.

GOAL! Out wide on the left players up from the back as Banks looks to play the ball into the box, hits a good strike high into the box dipping late on the keeper as Histon look to attack it, Hopkin applying pressure as Williams looks to bring it down in her six yard box doesn’t get it cleanly the ball evading her to continue on into the goal beyond and see Histon get immediately back into the lead 3-2.

Molly Banks puts Histon back into the lead

10 minutes played in the 2nd half a busy start to the 2nd half, Histon making a double change with Everdell and Marden coming off, on come, Hannah Seymour-Shove and Sabrina Ghosh. Kruez on for Green on Wroxham’s right sends a diagonal ball up towards the top of the D for Bullard looking to get it down under control link up with Fuller, Freestone with a foot in to defend for Histon. The game certainly opening up both sides confident they can get a goal Wroxham fighting for possession, Docking coming back into the middle to help win the ball back.

Millie Docking

 Williams rushing out to the top of her area to clear the ball as Ghosh threatens to send Nicholls clear through the middle from the left, Nicholls picking up a knock coming together with the keeper, but as is the nature of the game picks herself up keen to get on with thing’s. Hopkin linking up with Banks getting the ball forwards Wroxham prepared to risk a higher line more in the 2nd half Nicholls seeing the ball Robson moving in to make the tackle against her.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson with Histon’s Evie Nicholls

 Collins played in for Histon wide on the right racing up the line squares a cross into the box, Kruez intercepting to clear out to the top of the area, Nicholls hanging back latching onto it lifting her attempt up over the bar. Alexander putting herself about in the middle, getting it on for Stephenson, her pass out to Green cut out by Giusanni. Histon making a few errors at the back as Wroxham’s attackers press, Green forcing a throw to be conceded high on the right, dropped into Docking getting her head down driving to the by-line cuts her cross back up towards the penalty spot, just over Fuller, Leyland getting her head on it to clear for the hosts.

  Farrow putting the ball on into the left channel for Fuller to attack in behind, Fitzjohn again having to come rushing out to close her down corner of the box, colliding with the attacker to get the ball away to safety. Fuller down for a moment but alright to play on. Hopkin up the other end sending the ball into Ghosh looking to break clear left channel, Williams out to close the angle blocking with her leg, the ball out into the middle Alexander imposing herself puts the ball out to Green on the right, Seymour-Shove rushing in to challenge cutting out the cross picking up a slight knock.

Lily Alexander

 Play resuming with Histon giving the ball back to the keeper, almost leads to goal scoring chance Williams kick out to her defence wrong footing Robson, Nicholls snatching hold of it taking on the early shot, pulling her effort wide of the left post from 25 yards. Wroxham making a change with Bullard coming off, Faith Wakefield coming on taking up a position on the left of attack. Histon getting a little careless at the back, Wroxham pressing well Fuller letting fly from distance central the shot wide of the hosts left post. The visitors working hard giving it a good go fancying they can get a goal while risking leaving a few gaps at the back.

Elise Wade and Sophie Hopkin

 A free-kick awarded to Wroxham inside the Histon half played up into the box from the left, taken on the bounce by Fitzjohn. Ghosh released into space on Histon’s left the substitute with fresh legs bursting forwards whipping a cross into the area, Hopkin running on to attack it with her head can only plant the ball into the keepers gloves. 

 Continues to be end to end no time for anyone to pause Alexander lifting the ball out to Green on the right sending on a teasing cross into the six yard box, Fuller rising central can’t get a telling touch with her head glancing down towards the far post, Wakefield racing on to support not quite able to get a touch out behind for the goal kick. Into the final 15 minutes Histon with the narrow lead as they give away a free-kick out to the left corner of their area. Stephenson over the ball looks to place it into the top corner, wide past the far post.

  Histon guilty of not putting their foot through the ball at the back inviting trouble with the Wroxham attackers up to close the ball down. A throw to the visitors on the right Green linking up with Fuller down the line the cross cut out. Histon straight on the attack the ball on through the middle finding Collins on the right her cross cut back into the area intercepted by Wade for Wroxham. Fuller running in behind up the other end taking on the early shot as she breaks into the left channel, 25 yards out angles the ball in on goal, Fitzjohn right behind it.

Wroxham’s Maddie Green

  Docking into Stephenson coming right combining with Green in attack for Wroxham the cross swept in towards the penalty spot, Fuller the target, Leyland defending well to clear the threat for the hosts. Getting a little physical both sides scrapping for the ball the clock ticking down, time running out for Wroxham to level up the scores, Histon in need of another goal to put the game to bed. Make a change at the back, Mollie Childerley coming on at left back replacing Giusanni. 

Sabrina Ghosh

 Robson across to deny Ghosh the crossing opportunity on the left. Robson stays down briefly having picked up a couple of knocks. Into the final 5 minutes The cup tie still very much in the balance both sides feeling they can score, still fighting for the ball, played high over the Histon defence Fuller running in behind looking to see it down over her shoulder nod it down into the path of Wakefield rushing on to her left in support, the momentum of the ball seeing it scooped up in the box by the advancing Fitzjohn before she can reach it.

  Banks on for Nicholls the ball turned on for Ghosh moving on up the left cutting inside shooting on the angle a stinging shot in on goal, Williams behind it beating the ball down with her fists. The hosts pressing the game stretched Nicholls onto the ball driving for the box, Wade on her shoulder, Williams out rapidly to the top of her area to close her down, going to ground making the blocking save the ball deflected central, as Wade round quicker to get to the loose ball to clear Nicholls slightly impeded by the keeper, doesn’t go to ground force the referee into a decision. 

 Into stoppage time Wroxham build on the right Green on for Docking powers on to the b-line evading a challenge to surge into the box right of goal the angle closing down blasts her strike into the side netting. 

GOAL! Time almost up Histon with the ball at the back out to the left, Green rushing on to close down Childerley steal the ball plays a great reverse pass into Stephenson as she races past her on the overlap carrying the ball on into the box, right momentum taking her into the six yard box, Fitzjohn across going to ground to make the blocking save at her feet, the ball still with Stephenson however as she takes it inside her to rifle the ball home and level up the scores at the death 3-3!

Rebecca Stephenson seeing her initial strike blocked by the keeper, latching onto the loose ball to rifle home a last gasp equaliser

 A blow for Histon late in the contest jubilation for Wroxham, the hosts winning a free-kick central inside their opponents half, Banks behind it drives a powerful ball in at goal, Williams behind it beating the ball away spinning away for the corner kick. Played in near side, Kruez doing the defending for Wroxham as the final whistle blows up, Wroxham with the last gasp goal sending the FA Cup tie to penalties!

Full time Histon Women 3-3 Wroxham Women

  Proper cup tie this one played at a high tempo throughout, both sides giving it their all, Histon coming straight out of the block 2nd half having scored at the end of the 1st to level it at 1-1. Tash Collins played through to score her 2nd of the game firing Histon into the lead. The game opening up the ball never still, Wroxham came back into it to get it back to 2-2. Only for Histon to find an immediate reply to retake the lead from a set-piece of their own. Both sides fancying more goals created some good chances Histon not able to take one to put the contest to bed Wroxham not letting up a few errors creeping in at the back for Histon Maddie Green stealing onto the ball at the death to set up Rebecca Stephenson to score what was also her 1st of the season to make it 3-3 to send the game into a shoot out.

Penalties

 Onto the penalty shoot out, 5 penalties for each, should the scores remain level it then enters sudden death. Wroxham to take the 1st penalty Lily Alexander placing the ball on the spot, scores driving a low shot to the left under the diving keeper. 0-1.

 Evie Nicholls walking forwards from the middle to take Histon’s 1st penalty, cool as you like sends the keeper the wrong way placing the ball to the left 1-1.

  Millie Docking up next for Wroxham puts her foot through the ball good placement sending the ball in high to the keepers left 1-2.

 Sophie Hopkin up 2nd for Histon, controlled blasting the ball high to the left to score 2-2.

 Hannah Fuller taking Wroxham’s 3rd penalty placing it low into the bottom right corner 2-3.

  16-year-old Charlotte Freestone stepping up for Histon with the 3rd penalty, calm and controlled low to the left of the goal 3-3.

  Wroxham’s captain up next Tigi Robson to strike the 4t penalty looks to slot it into the right of the goal, Fitzjohn diving the right way down behind the ball well to save 3-3.

 Hannah Seymour-Shove up next for the hosts a chance to give Histon the advantage, misses blasting her penalty over the bar remains level 3-3.

 Faith Wakefield to take the 5th penalty for Wroxham, no messing low into the left side of goal 3-4.

  Pressure shifts back to Histon, have to score their 5th penalty as captain Laura Leyland steps forwards to take it, goes to the right, Williams diving to get behind the ball and save! Wroxham rush forwards in celebration from the middle joyous… but NO the officials discussing the keeper having adjudged to come off her line to make the save has to be retaken. Drama, Leyland needing to compose herself goes the same way, same result Williams diving down onto the ball, but again the celebration a curtailed came off her line again seeing a 3rd retake. Leyland places the low strike to the left this time Williams doesn’t move 4-4, we head to sudden death.

 Rebecca Stephenson coming forwards to take the penalty kick for Wroxham puts her foot through the ball, rising to the left, Fitzjohn throwing herself at it getting her gloves on the ball turning it wide, Stephenson’s hands go to her head in dismay but relief as the keeper didn’t get enough on the ball pushes it onto the inside of the side netting 4-5.

 Mollie Childerley to take Histon’s 6th penalty has to score, and does burying a power strike to the left of goal 5-5. 

 Maddie Green up next for Wroxham running in opens up her body to place her penalty to the right of goal to score 5-6.

  Tash Collins forwards to place the ball on the penalty spot for Histon, has to score shoots to the right of goal, Williams diving down getting behind it to make the save, this time no retake as Wroxham can rush forwards for the 3rd time the celebrations real this time winning the shoot out 6-5.

Bryony Williams with the save to send Wroxham into the next round of the Women’s FA Cup

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Plenty of strong contenders out there a great cup tie to watch all action the ball never still some great individual battles. Singling one out isn’t easy. Firstly for Histon, captain Laura Leyland was strong at the back commanding winning the ball in the air. Beside her Jess McCrae put in a number of vital blocks and tackles. Molly Banks scrapping for the ball in the middle getting the ball on into the attackers. Sophie Hopkin getting up to join the attack influencing player in the final 3rd, Tash Collins to in attack making some great runs on the right. Wroxham had several out with only one substitute but the starting XI put in a determined display working hard in defence, Tigi Robson with some great tackles, Elise Wade enjoying a good contest with Evie Nichols positioned herself well throughout to win the ball. Rebecca Stephenson getting about the pitch to link up the attack. Hannah Fuller probing looking to find an opening throughout bring others into play. The award goes to Lily Alexander in the heart of the action in the middle covering the ground to win the ball back, using it well allowing Wroxham to press further forwards.

  That was an enjoyable cup tie, plenty of action, goals and could have gone either way a penalty shoot out never ideal to settle thing’s but the game had to be decided. Great to catch up with both sides and many thanks for the team details. looking forwards to the draw for the 3rd Qualifying round and what ties it offers up.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Lowestoft Town Ladies v Needham Market Women

Sunday 6th September

Women’s FA Cup

Heading to the east coast this Sunday along the A47 to catch of action from this season’s Women’s FA Cup, from the 1st Qualifying Round with Norfolk Women’s Division One champions, Lowestoft Town Ladies taking on Eastern Regional side, Needham Market Women. 

 The FA Cup capturing the occasion a special competition steeped in history, the clubs playing this weekend although highly unlikely to get there taking the first steps to Wembley Stadium. 101 ties across the country with the tier 6 and 7 sides playing in the early rounds of the cup. The prize money increased in recent season’s meaning a good run for a lower league side could result in a significant cash boost for the club, £1,800 on offer for the winning side today with the losers guaranteed £450.

  Lowestoft Town Ladies re-establishing their women’s side at the start of last season. The club with a long record supporting the women’s game through various sides over the decades with a certain amount of history too, including the Women’s FA Cup. Their new woman’s side formerly the Bungay Town Ladies 1st team making the move to the coast off of the back of double league success, hitting the ground running as Lowestoft going on to make it 3 title on the trot albeit under a different name.

 A strong squad full of experience some having previously represented Lowestoft, the club has ambitions to climb the pyramid once again, holding off from joining the ERWFL this season, wanting to make sure everything was in place to make the move successful on and off the pitch. Have made a few new additions to the squad for the new season, Taylor Cooke with experience at Ipswich and Ellie Hunter joining from Mulbarton, a box to box midfielder with a good engine will add steel to the middle of the park. Today their 1st competitive game of the season.

  Needham Market Women are already 4 games into their season with the ERWFL kicking-off back on August 16th. Moving into Division One North this season having finished 4th in Division One South last season following relegation from the Premier Division the season before. Has been a transitional period for the Suffolk club in that time having lost a good chunk of experienced players to rivals Sudbury which has seen them blood alot of youthful talent from their academy.

 Have a strong set-up with a Development side competing in the Suffolk Women’s Premiership. Have player 1 game in the Women’s FA Cup already beating fellow Suffolk side, Woodbridge Town Ladies 1-0 thanks to a goal from captain Mia Etheridge Golding to advance. Etheridge Golding leading the goal scoring charts early on with 2 to her name, with last season’s top scorer Annie Posnett also on 2 having bagged 19 last season.

  Crown Meadow, the home of Lowestoft Town FC the venue for today’s match. Has been a while since I was last here covering a women’s game. Opened way back in 1894, the clubhouse leading into the stadium itself the bar open today for the women’s FC A Cup match. The tea hut open too serving hot and cold drinks and snacks. A covered seated stand on one side of the ground with standing viewing around a large grass pitch that will see plenty of action over the season. In the heart of the community always a warm welcome whenever I attend. The weather still warm and mild into September, a little breeze but otherwise a sunny afternoon.

Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Marcie Prettyman, Charnelle Riggall (C), Mia Wilson, Francesca Heaney, Ellie Hunter, Beatriz Silva, Zoe Gibbons, Louise Nichols, Lauren Goulder & Beth Turner. Subs – Mia Rose, Brooke Osbourne, Imogen Smith, Erin Stocking & Sofia Serghiou.

Lowestoft Town Ladies

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Danielle Clarke, Chelsea Brett, Sophia Gillingham, Libby Mann, Lily-Jo Hilton, Isabella Haste, Mia Etheridge Golding (C), Chloe Brame, Esme Marsh, Ella Edwards & Keira Topple. Subs – Amy Brunning, Darcey Bloss, Millie Lumden, Jae Lewis-Samuel, Anna Sullivan, Adele Stalnionis & Millie Bloom.

Needham market Women

  Ellie Hunter making her debut for Lowestoft this afternoon in the starting line-up. Annie Posnett unavailable for Needham Market, referee Sarah Clark leading the two teams out onto the pitch. Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the tie going straight to penalties.

Captains, Mia Etheridge Golding and Charnelle Riggall with todays match officials.

 A moment of silence held before kick-off in memory to two Lowestoft fans and volunteers, Fred Nixon and Phil Belton who passed away recently.

  It’s Lowestoft to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing an all light blue kit, Needham Market lined up opposite wearing red shirts with black trim, black shorts and red socks with black piping. The ball rolled back to Ellie Hunter in midfield, Needham Market rushing on to squeeze the ball, Beatriz Silva looking to take it on out to the left, play brought back for a free-kick top of the circle awarded to the visitors a chance for Needham Market to put players forward test the Lowestoft back line.

 Libby Mann sending the ball in low cut out by Lowestoft’s Silva, look to counter the pass almost setting up Louise Nichols as she races on up the left flank. Needham Market always a side who like to keep the ball moving exchanging passes and looking to run in space create opening, Isabella Haste played in on the right driving forwards with the ball, Lowestoft captain, Charnelle Riggall rushing across to put the challenge in see the ball out for a throw.

Needham Market’s Isabella Haste

  Play a little scrappy at the start as both sides rush in to get hold of the ball, Hunter into Zoe Gibbons for Lowestoft carrying the ball on through the middle threads it forwards for Beth Turner up top looking to force her way into the box, Chelsea Brett just getting to it ahead of her in defence for the visitors sending it back for goalkeeper Danielle Clarke to launch clear.

Lowestoft’s Zoe Gibbons

 Lowestoft conceding a little ground to their higher league opponents with Needham Market’s defence holding a high line captain Mia Etheridge Golding in midfield spraying a pass out to the right for Ella Edwards to attack taking the ball on squares her cross along the top of the opposition area, plenty back for Lowestoft, Hunter there to intercept see off the threat. Needham Market seeing plenty of the ball in front of a compact Lowestoft side with Turner operating as the lone attacker.

 Edwards for Needham Market out to the right laying in inside for Etheridge Golding pushed forwards, Lily-Jo Hilton providing the short passing option the cross flung into the six yard box, Lowestoft goalkeeper Chloe Pearce flexing an arm to knock the ball away from her goal her defence clearing. Lowestoft get the ball forwards into Nichols left fired up to Turner holding the ball up well in the corner that side played back into the advancing Gibbons she jinks inside 20 yards out looking too send a shot into the top corner, curled in collected safely by Clarke. 

  Edwards with the ball out on the right for Needham Market drawing the foul. Mann on the set-piece played in towards the near post, Keira Topple meeting it with the deft header looking to guide it goal wards instead placed wide of the upright. Needham Market continue to see plenty of the ball in front of Lowestoft but with their opponents deep finding a cutting pass is tricky some a little wayward. Etheridge Golding with the diagonal ball out to Edwards right side, again Riggall is out quickly to close her down.

Ella Edwards

 Turner strong looking to hold the ball up whenever it is played up to her drifting out to the left forcing Needham market into conceding a corner kick. An in-swinging delivery just lands the wrong side of the post in the side netting. Quarter of an hour played Chloe Brame linking up with Topple central for Needham market the ball payed out to Edwards right wing her cross into the box cleared by Lowestoft’s Francesca Heaney. 

Lowestoft attacker, Beth Turner

Mia Wilson, volleying another Needham market cross behind to give away the corner. Put in near side cleared away before the goal kick is awarded. The visitors quick to regain possession as Silva can’t pick out Lauren Goulder as she looks to make the run up the right wing. Quick to feed the ball forwards for Topple looking to run in behind a vital interception from Wilson at the back for the hosts.

GOAL! Lowestoft defend on the right Marcie Prettyman getting the ball on quickly turned on through the middle into Goulder beating the offside trap on the right. Driving forwards with the ball the attacker cutting inside 20 yards out to unleash a low shot towards goal pace behind it past the diving keeper before she can get to it at her near post to put Lowestoft into the lead 1-0. 

Lauren Goulder breaking away on the right to open the scoring for Lowestoft.

 The hosts with the lead with the game closing in on the 20 minute mark. Needham Market caught out at the back the flag staying down. Pearce with a good take high inside her box as the cross from Edwards comes in from the right, Etheridge Golding making the central run. Topple across to the right combining with Edwards, Nichols back to help Riggall in defence the ball out for a throw. Needham Market a little rattled after conceding rushing their passes not finding their mark. 

 Turner causing problems up to looking to force her way forwards, Gibbons looking to get on from the middle to join her. Sophia Gillingham closing her down to get her foot in deny the opportunity inside the box. Goulder carrying the ball inside off the right finding Gibbons central, head down looking to take the ball on towards the box runs into traffic crowded off the ball. 

Lauren Goulder

 Lowestoft feeling a little more confident now getting players forwards lifted up towards the top of the area, Brame getting her head on it to clear for Needham Market. Regaining possession Hunter getting the ball out to Goulder right side, Prettyman up with her looking to get into the box, no cross the pass back out of the area, Lowestoft continue to press, Gibbons squeezing a pass through the defence, Prettyman escaping clear to shoot, the flag up against her even as she slides the ball into the back of the net.

Ellie Hunter making her debut for Lowestoft

  Needham Market caught out again on the right as Goulder escapes the offside flag the cross dealt with by Mann comes back out to left Nichols up with Gibbons looks to take on the 25 yard strike slicing the ball off target into the box across goal, Turner latching onto it to send the ball into the back of the net but was offside in the build up an it won’t count. Lowestoft enjoying a good spell putting an unsettled Needham Market under a little pressure. The game scrappy at times Needham Market linking up well in the middle Brame into Etheridge Golding laying the pass out to Haste right side Edwards up with her Riggall putting in the tackle preventing the cross.

  Hilton finding Edwards with a good pass out to the right the ball squared back in central Hunter gathering it into her feet inside the D getting it clear for the hosts. Topple seeing the ball into her feet in attack for Needham market looking to lay it off for Brame looking to to past her central, Heaney getting her foot in to win it back for Lowestoft. Frustration for the visitors their passing play getting them no momentum, little space to exploit in behind, Edwards right playing it inside to Mann in space 30 yards out leading back into her shot sends her effort over the bar. 

Needham Market’s Libby Mann

 Marsh taking the ball left for Needham Market her evading Prettyman’s challenge her cross cut out by Wilson. Edwards coming central with a direct pass through the middle intended for Topple top of the area, past her, Pearce with a good starting position out to grab it before the attacker can react. Etheridge Golding pulls out to the right overlapping Edwards as getting the ball into her feet sends the cross into the area dealt with by Lowestoft’s Heaney. 

Zoe Gibbons with Needham market captain Mia Etheridge Golding

The 1st half drawing to a close, Lowestoft with a late free-kick as Prettyman is upended on the right. Fired in towards the D, Gibbons looking to get hold of it off her on beyond into the box, Nichols for a moment free in behind but the flag is quickly up to stop her getting the shot away. Lowestoft attacking late on Gibbons on for Nichols pushing well up the left flank cuts inside her cross driven into the box, the Needham Market defence holding well to catch Turner offside in front of goal.

Half-time Lowestoft Town Ladies 1-0 Needham Market Women

 Lowestoft heading back to the changing rooms with the slender lead at the break. Lauren Goulder’s 20th minute strike the difference between the sides, the hosts with the ball in the back of the net twice more but ruled off for offside. Frustration for Needham Market towards the end of the 1st half, have enjoyed more of the ball Lowestoft defending deep at times but have been wasteful with their passing not finding the mark with the final ball. Lowestoft patient working hard to keep thing’s tight against their higher league opponents finding joy on the flanks leading to Goulder being released in behind to score their goal. Plenty for Needham market to think about going into the 2nd half, Lowestoft will be expecting a response early in the 2nd half.

  Needham Market mang 3 changes at the break as they look to get themselves back into the tie with Haste, Marsh and Hilton coming off, Darcey Bloss, Adele Stalnionis and Anna Sullivan coming on. A change for Lowestoft too with Brooke Osbourne on the field replacing Silva. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway the ball fed out to Bloss as the substitute gets on the move up the right firing an early cross into the box, Heaney with the clearance for Lowestoft.

  Needham Market showing clear intent at the start of the 2nd half getting players forwards, Stalnionis bursting on up the left wing laying the pass inside to the advancing Edwards

Needham market’s Adele Stalnionis

Wilson lunging in with the tackle for the hosts. Pressure from the visitors in the final 3rd Topple fouled outside the D. Mann up from the back to take the free-kick wraps her foot around the ball, Pearce across her goal can see it safely out past the left post. Bloss taking the ball on up the right winning her side a corner kick.

 GOAL! Plenty up into the box for Needham Market as the corner is swung in on goal under the bar scrambled away past the far post hitting Etheridge Golding on it’s way down and sent back across goal over the line to level the scores 1-1.

Captain Mia Etheridge Golding turning home the corner to level the scores for Needham Market

 Needham market back on level terms within the first 5 minutes of the 2nd half, a blow to Lowestoft who have found themselves under the cosh early n the 2nd period. Wilson called on to defend in the box for Lowestoft as Topple looks to get onto the end of a Bloss cross fired in from the right, Prettyman in support launching the loose ball clear. Little opportunity to get the ball forwards for Lowestoft launched through the middle for Turner, Clarke comes rushing out of her area to try and clear, just colliding heavily with Turner in the process the striker staying down afterwards in need of treatment. Gets up slowly and heads over to the bench for further attention.

  Needham Market brighter pressing well Brame and with Etheridge Golding and Sullivan in the middle the ball played out to Stalnionis on the left into the box, Wilson in to close her down with Prettyman, Stalnionis looking to make a nuisance of herself as the ball in eventually scrambled away. Comes back quickly though Edwards getting up the right winning the visitors another corner. Is another good in swinging delivery in across the face of goal turned on at the far post blocked on the line, by Osbourne covering the post pops up off her safely for Pearce to claim.

 Edwards on for Bloss her cross off the right into to the advancing Sullivan inside the box, looks to met it on the volley, no control however the ball looping up and it safely caught by the keeper. A change for Lowestoft with Goulder giving way to be replaced by Mia Rose.

 GOAL! The game opening up with Lowestoft looking to get players on to press, Etheridge Golding exploiting it with a precise pass over the top into Topple central getting herself one on one with Heaney top of the area central good control to get the better of the defender turn inside her to wrap her foot around the ball and drive a low shot across the diving keeper into the bottom corner to send the visitors into the lead 1-2.

Kiera Topple firing Needham Market into the lead with her 1st of the season.

  Needham Market on top Sullivan getting hold of the ball pushing on through the middle, looking to send Stalnionis away up the left, Prettyman diving in with the tackle for Lowestoft. Topple getting players up with her causing a few issues for the hosts defence, Heaney and Riggall doubling up on her to get the ball back as the cross comes in from the left. Osbourne taking the ball on from Hunter finding Rose on the right looking to get on into the channel, Brett winning the ball back for Needham Market.

  Stalnionis clipping an attempt over the bar outside the box as Topple tees her up. Pearce down sharply to her left full stretch to save as Brame lets fly from all of 25 yards out as Needham market build well on their right the initial cross from Bloss just behind Sullivan cleared into the midfielders path.

Lowestoft goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce

  A corner awarded on the left. Is another vicious ball curled in under the bar, Pearce getting a glove up to it to flash it away to the right side a corner given. Flung into the box, cleared, play stopped though with Gibbons having pulled up with a knock. Is seen to and ok to continue.

 

 GOAL! Needham Market find themselves stretching their lead with a goal out of nothing a hopeful ball forwards from Bloss past the defence into the box looks a straight forwards claim for the keeper, Topple nevertheless looking to apply some pressure closing Pearce down forcing the error the ball not gathered Topple charging it down to see the ball rebound past both into the back of the net beyond to make it 1-3.

A brace for Kiera Topple

Needham Market opening up a 2 goal lead with the game moving into the final 20 minutes. In control 2nd half make another change with Jai Lewis-Samuel coming on replacing Edwards. Turner coming off too for Lowestoft with Erin Stocking entering the game. Stalnionis keeping Prettyman busy as she attacks on the right, the full back diving in to take the ball from the winger out from a throw as she looks to race past her to deliver the cross.

 

 Heaney winning the tackle as Topple looks to go left inside the box. Pressure maintained by the visitors, Stalnionis up on the left, Heaney out to tackle, Prettyman putting it behind for the corner. From the left the corner low into the near post cleared out to the left the cross back in smashing Prettyman in the face deflected behind for another corner. This one going long half cleared, Bloss striking it from range a low drive flashed wide of the far post.

Darcey Bloss

 A game of 2 halves for sure, Lowestoft on the back foot through the 2nd half with limited opportunities to get forwards, Gillingham and Mann little troubled at the back. Gibbons looing to make things happen getting on the ball driving into the right channel before being challenged drawing the foul. Heaney tracking back cutting out the cross from Bloss as she looks to play Lewis-Samuel through on goal.

Lowestoft defender, Francesca Heaney

 Sullivan coming back into defence to tackle win the ball from Gibbons as she takes the ball on from Stocking on the right. Lowestoft bring players forward for the set-piece, the delivery into the six yard box cleared out to the top of the area, Wilson free latching onto it striking a low shot in on goal through legs, Clarke down well nevertheless to save getting behind the ball.

Mia Wilson

 Prettyman diving in with a strong tackle on Topple getting a talking too from the referee as Needham Market are awarded the free-kick 20 yards out to the eft side of the D. Mann to take looks to go for goal her effort striking the wall. sent back in from distance, Pearce behind it all the way. Gibbons coming off for Lowestoft, Imogen Smith coming on. Needham Market continue to throw players forwards as the game draws to a close, Stalnionis out on the right seeing her cross headed behind at the near post by Heaney for a corner kick. 

  Cleared, another shot from range blasted over the bar. Pressure from Lewis-Samuel as she rushes in to close the keeper down the ball striking her looping back over the keeper and thankfully over the bar too. Riggall closing Stalnionis down as she attempts to get on up the right. A miscued attempt  Topple left side turning into an inviting cross to Stalnionis right of goal inside the box her effort blocked turned behind for another corner kick. 

 GOAL! Needham Market have carried a threat from their dangerous in swinging corners all game players up into the six yard box the ball curled in from the right Ethridge Golding in the mix the ball dropping down into the six yard box in front of goal, Sullivan throwing herself at it to turn the ball over the line to score her 1st of the season and fire Needham market into a 1-4 lead.

The ball dropping for Anna Sullivan o score Needham market’s 4th

 The 4th goal coming in the 87th minute Needham Market in full control haven’t given Lowestoft a look in 2nd half. Millie Bloom coming on for the visitors for a few minutes of action replacing Brett. Topple bursting into the box left of the Lowestoft goal sending a  cross in central to Lewis-Samuel her 1st touch giving Heaney a look in to stab the ball away to safety. Needham Market full of running late on the game into stoppage time winning another corner on the right, Lowestoft can’t get it forwards, tiring in the closing stages.

Full time Lowestoft Town Ladies 1-4 Needham Market Women

  Needham Market with a much improved 2nd half performance getting the job done over turning a 1-0 deficit at the break to equalise early in the 2nd half and go on to win the game 4-1 and advance into the 2nd Qualifying Round of the Women’s FA Cup. Very much a game of two halves this one. Needham Market although seeing plenty of the ball in the 1st half somewhat wayward with their final balls finding tough to open up a Lowestoft side defending deep looking to hit on the counter. That paid off for the hosts as they exposed Needham market at the back to break clear to open the scoring through Lauren Goulder in the 20th minute. Lowestoft growing in confidence as a result. Needham Market responding by making 3 changes at the start of the 2nd half getting on the front foot early on and never looked back, Bloss and Stalnionis getting on up the flanks, Etheridge Golding turning home a corner to quickly draw the sides level with striker Kiera Topple firing the visitors into a 3-1 with midfielder Anna Sullivan making it 4-1 late in the game. Lowestoft defending hard, couldn’t get any momentum going forwards becoming the frustrated party in the 2nd half.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders here difficult to choose strong performers on both sides. Firstly for Lowestoft, Ellie Hunter was strong in the middle getting about the pitch to win the ball get Lowestoft going forwards. Zoe Gibbons looked to get hold of the ball make things happen. The defence busy Francesca Heaney and Mia Wilson with some vital tackles. A complete turn around in the 2nd half from Needham Market with all 3 of the half-time replacements, Darcey Bloss, Adele Stalnionis and Anna Sullivan making a huge impact to get the ball forwards with purpose. Kiera Topple finding room to receive the ball 2nd half getting on the scoresheet for two goals. The award going to captain Mia Etheridge Golding. Strong in middle throughout keeping the ball moving back to win it and ensure Lowestoft had little to fed on up top in the 2nd period scoring the equalising goal.

 Good to make the trip back to Crown Meadow at last having not had the opportunity last season. A new era for women’s football in Lowestoft a solid squad to build on will be favourites for the Division One title once again. Looking forwards to the draw for the next round of the Women’s FA Cup, Needham Market in the hat. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the team details today. Good to get my season started even if I can’t do a game next week.

by Darren Gilham