Beginning this weeks county league reviews in Cambridgeshire, 10 games to bring you from the Premiership and Championship played at the weekend. It was to one of these that Women’s Football East headed on Sunday a top of the table game from the Premiership league leaders Peterborough Norther Star Ladies Reserves travelling to take on 2nd placed Haverhill Rovers Ladies, both new to the league this season. Haverhill winning promotion in their debut season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South, Peterborough’s Reserve side also into thier 2nd season making the switch from the Northamptonshire county league set-up.
An early injury blow for Haverhill captain, Joely Kirby coming off worse in a collision with the fence surrounding the pitch, left with a bloody head wound needing attention after just 4 minutes on in her place 16-year-old Jenna Wright. Linking up with Sian Cottrell in attack good work on the wing saw Wright cross to Cottrell unmarked just inside the box, turning falling into the shot sent the ball rising up over the keeper to put Haverhill into an early lead. Few chances created after that both sides working hard to keep the other out the keepers rarely tested, Peterborough getting joy out wide in attack. Haverhill leading 1-0 at half-time on a bitterly cold afternoon.
Sian Cottrell opening the scoring for Haverhill Rovers Ladies at the weekend
Peterborough with a bright start to the 2nd period looking to create press the ball the Haverhill defence with some good challenges leaving the visiting side frustrated leading by a single goal Haverhill were in need of a 2nd goal to relieve the pressure and late in the game got themselves into a 2 goal lead Kayleigh Nolan picked out with a great pass out to the right driving on into the box and unleashing a fierce shot, Peterborough goalkeeper Karla Durham getting her gloves down to save the ball parrying it out to the top of the area Wright reacting quickly getting hold of it firing a shot back in taking a wicked deflection sending it pass Durham and into the back of the net. Haverhill clinching a 2-0 win moving back to the top of the Premiership table with 3 games in hand over their opponents. Alot of football still to be played in the league though with several sides well positioned below the top 2.
ICA Sports Ladies move up into 3rd in the Premiership above Leverington Sports Ladies whose match against St Ives Town Ladies Development was called off late on Sunday. Playing a local derby away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday a first half hat-trick from Annie Posnett taking her onto 10 goals for the season seeing ICA Sports holding a 3-0 lead at the break. Netherton rallying in the 2nd half Jenna Nairn pulling a goal back on 65 minutes. Katie Barber with her 8th goal of the season setting up a nervous final 10 minutes firing home to make it 3-2. ICA Sports holding on for the win are 4 points behind leaders Haverhill.
March Town United Ladies move back up to 5th in the Premiership table beating a strong Histon Ladies Reserves team away from home at the weekend. Lauren Threadgold scoring a brace for Histon as they battle for points at the wrong end of the table pushing March close, also seeing a penalty saved by March goalkeeper, Tori Sharpe. A first goal of the season for Chloe Rimmer along with goals from top scorers Emma Searle and Jordan Turner their 7th and 8th goals of the season respectfully helping to secure a 3-2 win.
Ketton Ladies sixth in the Premiership table were hosting Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at the weekend the visitors involved in several high scoring encounters this season unfortunate not to get anything out of the game after they came out on the wrong end of a 4-3 scoreline. This despite a 25th goal of the season for Marie Stubbings with Eleanor Woodley on target to score a brace. Goalkeeper Sam Issacson also saving a penalty for Fulbourn. Ketton have goals in their side too, Fran Kavanagh amongst the goals again herself this season scoring a brace at the weekend to move onto 15 for the season. A goal each for Lauren McKeever and Ellie Marson seeing the 3 points go to the host side.
A third straight league win sees Cambridge University Women sees move up to 8th in the Premiership table. Were hosting newcomers Cambridge City Ladies A at the weekend a morning kick-off on Sunday. A strong performance for Cambridge University beating their opponents 6-0 to claim the 3 points. 10 goals each for the season now for Lidiya Mykhaylechko scoring a hat-trick and Amanda Wainwright on target for a brace. Taylor Lynn-Jones also celebrating a goal.
Cambridge University Women winning 6-0 at the weekend (photo credit Cambridge University Women)
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
A first defeat of the season for Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship leaders Cambridge Rangers Women last Sunday away to Park Ladies, bounced back returning to winning ways this weekend at home to Newmarket Town Women Development. A Sunday morning kick-off Newmarket working hard with the bare 11 holding Cambridge Rangers to a goalless draw at the break. The hosts getting their noses in front in the 2nd half taking the lead from a corner kick. Newmarket going down to 10 losing a player through injury kept on pushing Cambridge Rangers the league leaders going further ahead with the player advantage scoring twice more to win the match 3-0. Their goals scored by Barbara Williams, Robyn Barlow and Hoi Yee Hg.
A home win awarded to Mildenhall Town Ladies over Hungate Rovers Ladies keeps them 2nd in the Championship table but are being rapidly closed down by Pinchbeck United Ladies the gap now just 2 points as they continue their 100% winning start to the season with a 10th straight league win away to Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Helen Barker scoring her first goal for the club at the weekend. Libby Friel netting a hat-trick moving her to 11 for the season. 11 too for the campaign too for Freya Peters who was also amongst the goals for Pinchbeck on Sunday scoring a brace. Pinchbeck winning 6-0 have games in hand on the leading pair too.
A fabulous 1-0 win against leaders Cambridge Rangers Women last weekend seeing Park Ladies make it 5 straight wins in the Championship were looking to make it 6 in a row away to Isleham United Ladies. Isleham winning a close game 2-1 in the reverse fixture before Park begun their winning streak was another close match this weekend, goals for Louisa Harwood her first of the season for Isleham and one for Kate Silver not enough to take anything from the game as Park found the back of their net for 3 goals to come away with the 3 points seeing them close the gap to a point behind 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies who lost on Sunday.
A fantastic start to the season for Cardea Ladies winning their opening 4 league matches have since lost the next 4, on the wrong end of some high scoring matches were involved in another at the weekend their first competitive action of 2020 at home to 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies. Captain, Laura Rudd putting Cardea into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A great first half from the hosts seeing them add a further 2 goals Anna Langa on 19 minutes and Naomi Hall with her first goal of the season on 36. Cardea leading 3-0 at half-time Eaton Socon raced out of the blocks at the start of the 2nd half pulling a goal back straight away and by the 52nd minute the scores were level. Pegged back to 3-3 Cardea rallied keeping Eaton Socon from adding another goal, Rudd with her 10th goal of the season scoring in the 75th minute to see Cardea come out on top in a 7 goal thriller.
Swavesey Spartans Ladies move off the bottom of the Championship table after they earned a point at the weekend away from home to Deeping United Ladies on Sunday. Just one win on the board before the match Daisy Edwards-ainge finding the back of the net to put Swavesey into the lead. Deeping United coming back to see the points shared with Hannah Chapman on target to score her 18th goal of the season.
Harlow Town Ladies back to league action this weekend travelling away to St Ives Town Ladies, the Essex side leading the ERWFL Premier Division unbeaten dropping just 2 points this season. St Ives Town promoted to the league this season finding life in the league tough but working hard week in week out to improve. A good performance at the weekend seeing them earn a point against Harlow, St Ives taking the lead in the first half Ruth Fox with a great first touch bringing a pass from halfway down taking it away from the defence running on from 30 yards out into the box the angle against her lifted a superb shot up across the keeper into the far side of the goal to make it 1-0. Harlow coming back to level late in the first period captain Kaydee King always a danger from set-pieces heading the ball on to equalise. Harlow taking the lead in the 2nd half from a free-kick put into the box by Amy Nash, King getting her head on the ball finding it’s way into the back of the net. St Ives Town giving it there all coming back to level the scores and take a share of the point Caitlin McGeown with her first goal of the season. Harlow dropping their first points since the opening day of the season remain unbeaten still.
Ruth Fox with a superb goal to put St Ives Town Ladies into the lead on Sunday (photo credit Gary Reed)
Second placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies close the gap on leaders Harlow to 4 points winning at home to Royston Town Women on Sunday. A good first half from the host side Leah Cudone racing through to beat the offside trap beating the keeper to make it 1-0 in the 18th minute. Peterborough doubling their lead late in the first half Evie Driscoll-King scoring for the 2nd successive match the defender with 5 for the season now. Royston improving 2nd half as they fought to get back into the game Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson with a number of vital saves keeping the clean sheet in tack. Cudone firing in her 18th goal of the season towards the end of the match the seal the victory.
Luton Town Ladies hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game in hand were hosting Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies at the weekend. Luton with a number of chances in the first half frustrated by Colney Heath goalkeeper Amy Butler making several fine saves. The hosts taking the lead late in the first half awarded a penalty, Charlene Moreton finishing from the spot to see the visitors 1-0 up at half-time. Luton getting back onto level terms early in the 2nd half. Finding a way past Butler to take the lead went onto score a further 2 goals, strikers Rebecca Kane and Jess McKay remaining neck and neck on the goal scoring charts both on 16 for the season now McKay with a goal, Kane netting a brace. Luton winning the game 4-1 their was also a first goal of the season for Olivia Abraham.
Bedford Ladies 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division are currently in a rich vein of form themselves making it 6 straight wins in league and cup on Sunday away to 2nd bottom Haringey Borough Women. This their fifth straight league win the 3 points coming courtesy of a 4-1 victory the goals spread amongst their squad 4 different scorers at the weekend Natasha Fensome putting away her 8th goal of the season, Lauren Murray her 5th and Setor Acolatse scoring her 4th of the campaign. Bex Cray the other goalscorer with her 2nd of the season.
ERWFL Division One North
King’s Lynn Town Ladies were aiming to close the gap to ERWFL Division One North leader Cambridge City Ladies Development to 4 points as they travelled down to Suffolk to face AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. A close game between the sides back in November King’s Lynn winning 2-1 at home, this Sunday’s game proving a similar case Sudbury’s young side hard to break down at times both sides creating chances scoring a goal each in the first half the scores level King’s Lynn improving in the 2nd period scoring again with what would prove to be the winning goal the result 2-1 yet again, Emma Corbyn with her 8th goal of the season and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the scoresheet.
Three successive league wins sees Needham Market Women climb up into 3rd spot in the ERWFL Division One North table finding their feet in the league now following promotion last season. Were away to Newmarket Town Women on Sunday. Came out on top of a 7 goal thriller to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture between the sides in November. Another high scoring game between the sides this time around Needham Market starting well have goalscorers throughout their side, taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour Francesca Rainbird putting the ball over the top for Annie Northwood to close in on goal drive a shot home. A strong opening period from the visitors restricting Newmarket’s chances doubled the lead in the 34th minute a 30 yard free-kick from Amber Sparks parried onto the post by the keeper Lois Balfour rushing in on the follow up to make it 2-0. Balfour in to score her 10th goal for the 1st team this season making it 3-0 set up by Northwood in the 40th minute. Needham Market 3-0 up at the break.
A great first half from Needham Market on Sunday seeing them leading 3-0 (photo credit Ben Pooley)
Newmarket goalkeeper Ellie Quinn-Nicholls denying Balfour her hat-trick early in the 2nd half. Newmarket capitalising on a mistake in the 65th minute lobbing the keeper from 35 yards out to make it 3-1. Northwood putting Needham Market 4-1 up with the game into the final 15 minutes, her 13th goal of the season a superb half volley. Newmarket fighting to get back into it scoring a 2nd goal following a scramble from a corner in the 85th minute, Bethany Woodfield and Chloe Slater with their goals, Needham Market defending to see them climb into 3rd spot with a 4-2 victory.
ERWFL Division One South
Leigh Ramblers Ladies continue to do well in ERWFL Division One South joining the league this season move joint top with Millwall Lionesses at the top of the table after the league leaders saw their match away to Hoddesdon called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Leigh Ramblers away to Stevenage FC Women Development on Sunday. A close game between the sides, Emily Schofield with her 11th strike of the season putting Stevenage in front in the 15th minute. Lucy Dalgarno pulling the scores level for Leigh Ramblers 5 minutes later. Goalkeeper Emily Mackler with a number of saves to deny Stevenage seeing the pair level at the break 1-1. Tea Oldroyd kept busy in the Stevenage goal too as Leigh Ramblers pushed forwards in the 2nd half Georgia Holdaway beating her in the 80th minute to score her 9th goal of the season to see Leigh Ramblers clinch the 3 points.
A new arrival can certainly make an impact upon any side and that can definitely be said for Kristina O’Connell at Wodson Park Ladies. A poor beginning to the season which saw them lose their first 6 league games Wodson Park got their first 3 point of the season in mid-December a 3-2 win away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. O’Connell making the switch from Hoddesdon in the New Year. A narrow 2-1 defeat to high flying Leigh Ramblers in their first match of 2020. Wodson Park have now won 3 in a row in league and cup to move away from the bottom of the table. O’Connell scoring successive hat-tricks before this weekend on target for four more goals this weekend taking her to 10 already from just 4 appearances. Wodson Park at home to Lawford Ladies fielding the bare 11. Dempsey Favell also on the scoresheet for Wodson Park in a 5-1 win. Daisy Canny scoring late on in the game for Lawford has 15 for the season.
On the road this Sunday travelling to play 2nd bottom side Hounslow Women, FAWNL Southern Premier Division leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies had the opportunity to further extend their lead at the top of the table with 2nd placed Watford Ladies due to play their FAWNL Plate quarter final, in the end one of several ties to fall foul to the weather. An 11th win of the season would see Crawley move 6 points clear at the top. Sian Heather opening the scoring for Crawley in the 12th minute tapping in from close range following goo work from Megan Stow out wide. The visitors denied a 2nd goal moments later. Hounslow battling hard as they fight to pull out of the bottom to with a couple of chances forcing a save from Crawley Wasps goalkeeper, Frankie Gibbs, Crawley themselves seeing the woodwork struck from a corner kick held a narrow 1-0 lead at the break.
Crawley with a good beginning to the 2nd period doubling their lead 5 minutes after the restart Natasha Stephens squaring the ball for Charlotte Owen to make it 2-0. Kemina Webber introduced to the action in the 55th minute scoring Crawley’s 3rd goal midway through the half getting the final touch from a Rachel Palmer corner. Heather getting her 2nd of the match with 15 minutes to play went on to score a hat-trick with 10 minutes left putting away the rebound after Emma Plewa’s effort was saved. Crawley Wasps winning 5-0 to move 6 points clear at the top of the Southern Premier Division.
Cardiff City Ladies, 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table made the journey to play Keynsham Town Ladies at the weekend the hosts recently resigning Kerry Bartlett whose goals helped the club to achieve promotion from South West Division One the season before. The visitors going in front in the 17th minute good build up leading to Carrie Jones slotting home to make it 1-0. That the advantage at half-time it was another superb team goal that lead to the visitors doubling their lead midway though the 2nd half Kylie Nolan applying the final touch. Cardiff seeing a penalty saved three minutes later to deny them a 3rd goal. A 2-0 win sees them close the gap to 2nd placed Watford to 3 points albeit having played 2 games more.
Reaching the semi-finals of the FAWNL Plate last weekend, Plymouth Argyle Ladies, returning to the good form shown earlier in the season after a poor run of results in the league, back to back cup wins were at home in the league this weekend taking on Kent side, Gillingham Ladies. Helen Bleazard firing a couple of efforts wide in the early exchanges the hosts winning a penalty in the 17th minute. Captain Katie Middleton putting it away to score her 5th goal of the season and put Plymouth into the lead. Bleazard continuing to test the keeper getting her goal on the half hour an absolute rocket struck in off the post to make it 2-0. That the lead at half-time Plymouth continued to probe for further goals 2nd half. Not all one way traffic Gillingham striking the woodwork from a free-kick Plymouth finishing strong couldn’t add to the scoreline a 2-0 win however seeing them climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table.
FAWNL Cup
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are enjoying another run in the FAWNL Cup competition’s this season. Reaching the semi-finals of the FAWNL Plate last season are into the quarter finals of the Cup itself this season battling their way through earlier rounds twice winning a penalty shoot out were against local rivals Chesham United in the last 8 this weekend meeting them for the 2nd time successive weekend having being them 5-3 last Sunday to reach the Berks and Bucks Women’s County Cup final yet again. Surrendering home advantage to Chesham United on the FAWNL Cup this weekend. The sides pretty evenly matched headed into the half-time interval goalless. Milton Keynes opening the scoring 11 minutes into the 2nd half adding another from a corner in quick succession, Jade Bell and Jessica Driscoll putting them 2-0 up, Chesham pushing for a reply the Milton Keynes defence standing firm keeping them out to reach the semi-final of a national cup for the 2nd successive season.
Milton Keynes Dons will be at home to Northern Premier Division side Stoke City Women in the last 4 of the FAWNL Cup after they beat Huddersfield Town Women away from home at the weekend the tie to be played Sunday 16th February. Sunderland AFC Ladies also reaching the last 4 of the FAWNL Cup with a 4-0 win at home to Derby County Women. At home to in the semi-finals their opponents will be either Portsmouth FC Women or Southampton FC Women, yet another postponement for Portsmouth at the weekend the pair will play on Wednesday all being well.
FAWNL South East Division One
An amazing past few days for Ipswich Town Women beating Huddersfield Town Women to reach the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup last weekend and see them pulled out of the hat to play a dream tie away to holders Manchester City Women. Back to the league this weekend their cup heroics seeing them knocked off the top of the FAWNL South East Division One table by AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A squad full of confidence were back at home to face bottom side Kent Football United. Ipswich winning a corner early in the match the ball fired into the box cleared out to the top of the area straight to midfielder Blue Wilson inside the D sending in a lopping strike over the keeper to make it 1-0 inside 3 minutes scoring her first Ipswich goal in the process. Ipswich dominant creating a host of chances shots blocked on the line the visitors holding Ipswich at bay for half an hour before the lead was doubled Anna Grey cutting inside from the top of the box to send a shot into the far corner. Another goal disallowed for offside Zoe Cossey on hand to score from close range with five minutes of the 1st half remaining. 3-0 up at half-time it didn’t take Ipswich long to get back into their stride at the start of the 2nd half Eloise King on the hour finding the bottom corner to make it 4-0. Kent kept going the end numerous blocks as Ipswich looked to add to their tally but 4-0 it finished Ipswich returning to the top of the league.
Cup exploits too for Billericay Town Ladies had seen them slip down the South East Division One table, in sixth at the start of the weekend is incredibly close in the top half of the table. Billericay played at The Len Salmon Stadium were hosting 2nd bottom side Cambridge City Ladies. The visitors holding Billericay to a goalless first half. Billericay getting the opening goal of the game in the 2nd period pushing players forwards a high ball into the box cleared low towards the top of the area Lucy Jones alert darting onto it to clip a rising shot into the back of the net. A similar move leading to the 2nd goal another high ball in from the right, not clear Zoe Rushen snapping onto it centrally to send a low shot wide of the keeper to make it 2-0. Billericay moving up 3 places into 3rd in the table off the back of their first league game since mid October plenty of cup matches in that time however.
Lucy Jones with the opening goal for Billericay on Sunday (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
Zoe Rushen on target to make it 2-0 to Billericay (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
Plenty of goals too in the final game to bring you from the FAWNL this weekend. Both Stevenage FC Women and Norwich City Women keen to add points to the board to pull them away from getting sucked into the bottom two meeting at the weekend in South East Division One. Chelsea Garrett in good form in front of goal for Norwich this season firing the visitors into the lead in the 5th minute, adding a 2nd to make it 2-0 on 17. Gemma Biggadike lobbing the keeper to pull a goal back for Stevenage on the half hour following good work on the ball from Lucy Webster. Aimee Durrant restoring Norwich’s 2 goal lead in the 37th minute 3-1 up Stevenage responding well late in the half Nicole Emmings receiving the ball on half way seeing the keeper off her line trying her luck and scoring to make it 3-2. Erin Pope equalising for Stevenage in the 45th minute rounding a defender and shooting the initial shot saved in on the follow up to make it 3-3.
Norwich City Women’s striker Chelsea Garrett (photo credit Brian Coombes)
All square at the break Norwich straight back into the lead at the start of the 2nd half Garrett on target for her hat-trick. Both keepers called into action with fantastic saves Garrett scoring her fourth of the game in the 63rd minute putting Norwich 5-3 up with her 18th of the season. Stevenage pressing for a reply Norwich adding a 6th goal in the closing minutes Jodie Drake getting herself on the scoresheet to see Norwich return to Norfolk with 3 valuable points taking them above Stevenage into 8th.
A top of the table clash from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and a match between two debutants on Women’s Football East as 2nd placed Haverhill Rovers Ladies host league leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves.
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League growing considerably this season and influx of new sides seeing the Premiership expanded to 13 teams, the Championship below starting the season with 15 sides competing. Alot of football to be played. Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves leading the Premiership by a point, Haverhill Rovers Ladies playing catch up a point behind in 2nd with 3 games in hand. Several sides keeping an eye on this top of the table clash too well placed below to mount a challenge on the title themselves.
My first look at Haverhill Rovers Ladies the club re establishing it’s women’s side last season. Strong recruitment seeing alot of experienced and talented players joining the club a 2nd Development side formed originally competing in the Suffolk Women’s Division now in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship. The first team winning promotion from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South last in their debut season pipped to the title by St Ives Town Ladies Development. Joining the expended Premiership this season have made a strong start just one defeat from their opening 8 matches. Playing catch up just a third of their fixtures played a busy few months loom in what is likely to be a hard fought run for the title.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies playing in the ERWFL Premier Division forming a new Reserves side last season. One season in the Northamptonshire Women’s Football League they make the switch over to Cambridgeshire this season a strong start winning 7 of their opening 11 games getting their matches in where others haven’t seeing them move to the top of the league. In a good position to push on for the remainder of the season.
The New Croft the venue for today’s match the game played on the 3G pitch beside the main stadium. One the outskirts of Haverhill multiple pitches is very much a community club. The 3G pitch itself a good size offering plenty of width, a wide viewing area for spectators with a small seated stand. Tea and coffee available aswell as hot food. A wet start to the day remained overcast a chilly wind building that would get stronger as the afternoon progressed. The 3G pitch seeing plenty of use games earlier in the day over running delaying kick-off by half an hour to allow the sides to warm-up properly.
Haverhill Rovers Ladies starting XI – Chelsea White, Ella Blowes, Georgina Westrope, Beth Harding, Amy Evans, Julie Brown, Kayleigh Steed, Emma Barnes, Kayleigh Nolan, Joely Kirby (C) & Sian Cottrell. Subs- Clair Andrews, Hannah Doyle, Sophie Wing & Jenna Wright.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves starting XI – Karla Durham, Fran Peeling, Demi Fox, Leah Barnes (C), Sarah Beard, Catherine Ray, Eve Lomasney, D’Lacy Phillips, Georgia Clarke, Eleanor Spendlow & Ella Gavaghan. Subs- Shannon Hilton, Kimberley Fairweather & Katie Henry.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Peterborough to get the first half underway wearing black an white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. Haverhill all in red. The ball pressed in the middle early on both sides rushing to get the ball played out with little accuracy in the early exchanges. Eve Lomasney sending it forwards for Eleanor Spendelow to chase up the left side, Ella Blowes back on her to defend win the ball back for Haverhill at the back.
Spendelow looking to make runs out wide left in attack for Peterborough ready to go whenever the midfield regains possession. Haverhill with 3 at the back, Spendelow crossing the ball into the box long across the penalty spot Ella Gavaghan can’t reach it before Haverhill clear.
Haverhill getting numbers back to support the defensive won back Julie Brown carries it forwards left side playing it forwards down the wing Joely Kirby captaining the side giving chase on her shoulder Peterborough captain Leah Barnes a race to the touch line Kirby looking to keep it in Barnes aiming to hold her up run out of room as they come together, Kirby’s momentum seeing her collide with the metal fence surrounding the pitch. Stay’s down hurt play stopped immediately a head injury blood pouring from a wound can’t continue, an early substitution made Jenna Wright on to join Sian Cottrell in attack. Kirby up walking back to the changing room to get her wound attended too.
Haverhill defender Georgina Westrope clearing the ball before Peterborough’s Ella Gavaghan can close her down
The early exchanges remain tentative neither side properly settled as they test each other out. Peterborough making ground on the right wing Georgia Clarke racing with the ball to the touchline squaring a cross into the area Spendlow closing far post cushion the ball down to Gavaghan top of the area her first touch heavy allows Georgina Westrope the chance to get to the ball and clear.
GOAL! The hosts open the scoring good work on the right the ball played forwards to Jenna Wright strong on the ball getting it to Cottrell positioned inside the box right of the D, unmarked, sees the ball into her feet tuning into the striking falling back as she does so aiding her strike sending it up over goalkeeper Karla Durham into the back of the net beyond 1-0.
Sian Cottrell opens the scoring for Haverhill Rovers Ladies
Peterborough get on the offensive straight from the restart Spendelow keeping possession well over halfway left side playing a great crossfield pass spotting Catherine Ray breaking forwards from the middle. Beth Harding standing her ground well top of the area tackling to get the ball away from her. Wright making making an impact since coming on strong on the ball moving out to the left running on flicking a cross into the box with the outside of her boot Kayleigh Nolan closing in on goal from the right the ball too close to the keeper, safely in Durham’s hands.
Peterborough’s Fran Peeling
Coming forwards from the back Fran Peeling looks to combine with Clarke and Ray on the right, Harding breaking up the attack the ball one end than the other neither side holding onto it for long. Lomasney closing down in the middle sending the ball long looking for Spendelow racing on left side into the box, Chelsea White in goal for Haverhill to it first. Kayleigh Steed with a superb pass from midfield Nolan after the ball on the right into the corner, gathers Spendelow tracking back in defence challenging to win the ball.
Kayleigh Steed playing the ball on fro Haverhill
Between then Steed, Brown and Amy Evans are getting hold of the ball on the middle breaking up Peterborough attacks, preventing players getting up to support Gavaghan leading the attack. The hosts pushing forwards winning a corner, keep the ball in their opponents half Brown out to Wright top of the area right side sends in a low strike, Durham having the angle covered down to collect the ball safely. Gavaghan coming back to steal the ball right side turns and heads towards goal, Harding closing in to tackle for Haverhill. White up to claim the ball at her near post as the ball is swung in from a cross on the right.
Lomasney making several well times tackles to get hold of the ball always looking for a forward option from midfield plays the pass out to Spendelow giving chase on the left, Blowes coming across concedes the throw in. Into Gavaghan’s feet coming towards the ball turns looking to power her way into the box outnumbered the ball with Haverhill the break on the ball launched forwards Wright after it, bouncing an awkward one fro Peterborough full back Demi Fox to deal with keeps her eye on the ball as she jumps in front of the onrushing Wright making the clearance off balance falls bashing her head painfully on the 3G surface. another pause in play. Up after treatment able to continue.
Demi Fox playing the ball for Peterborough
A cagey game neither side getting the better of the other fairly even, Peterborough making runs out wide not capitalising in the middle, congested at times Haverhill constantly looking to spread the play. Both sides quick to recover in defence, Harding coming across the back line to deal with the threat of Spendelow as she gets in behind into the box from another good ball from Lomasney aiming to pick out Gavaghan central, Harding intercepts her block deflecting the ball safely back to her keeper.
D’Lacy Phillips bringing the ball on for Peterborough setting up an attack finding Spendelow left side players rush up from midfield to out number the Haverhill defence Spendelow firing the ball inside taken into her stride by Ray has Gavaghan running ahead of her, feeds the ball on into the box, Westrope having gone with Gavaghan lunging in with the challenge to take the ball away from her. Peterborough prevent Haverhill counter attacking the ball fired into Spendlow 25 yards out on the left of the fires in a shot the ball plucked down and caught by White.
Peterborough midfielder, D’lacy Phillips
Brown bringing the ball on through the middle played forwards for the pacy Nolan to chase, quick by the ball picks up speed on the 3G and is away from her before she can keep it in play. Peterborough make a double change bringing off Phillips and Fox coming off, Katie Henry and Kimberley Fairweather coming on further positional changes seeing Spendelow pushed up to join Gavaghan in the attack Ray going into the defence. The visiting side applying some pressure towards the end of the first half up on the right the cross into the six yard box Spendelow jumping with the keeper the ball loose a shot fired in on goal blocked on the line.
Haverhill defender, Ella Blowes playing the ball up field
Emma Barnes on the move with the ball left side for Haverhill her cross in cut out by Sarah Beard deflected behind goal for a corner. Fired in low very nearly an own goal the ball sent in towards goal at the near post cleared straight to Barnes a shot lashed back in Peterborough turn to block on the line. Brown getting across to tackle Ray as she comes on with the ball turning infield, possession quickly regained the ball launched out to the right taken on by Clarke her cross from the byline comfortably dealt with by Westrope.
Half-time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 1-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves
Half-time and Haverhill hold a narrow lead 1-0 up takes to an early goal from Sian Cottrell. Few clear cut chances over all both sides working hard cancelling each other out to a degree, Haverhill strong in the centre of the park making it hard for Peterborough to get numbers forwards Ella Gavaghan often isolated in attack. Peterborough on the whole solid at the back themselves neither keeper tested. Perfectly set up for the 2nd half.
Getting very chilly now the wind picking up swirling across the ground. Peterborough staying out on the pitch during the interval. Haverhill back out taking kick-off no changes for either side. Peterborough quick out of the blocks the ball closed down Fairweather playing it out to the right a throw won inside the Haverhill half from that Henry sending a cross into the area cleared by Westrope. Haverhill bring it forwards, Peterborough across the close down preventing the break Ray played onto the ball left side charges forwards cutting inside into the box run off the ball by Blowes.
Haverhill’s Julie Brown winning the header against Peterborough’s Eleanor Spendelow
Great work by Brown strong to win the ball back in front of her defence turn looks up sees Nolan on the move right side sends the diagonal ball in her direction, Durham seeing Nolan’s run to racing out of her area to get her foot through the ball first. Wright is proving a handful in attack for Haverhill strong on the ball shaking off her marker getting on in behind, Beard comes across to challenge put the ball away from a throw. Is becoming an end to end encounter Peterborough launch it forwards through the middle Gavaghan 25 yards out, back to goal with a glancing header to knock it down to Spendlow to her left, the attackers then with a one tow Spendelow into Gavaghan’s feet she lays it back for Spendelow to strike swinging through the air off target White across her line to gather.
Eleanor Spendelow constantly looking for an attacking opportunity for Peterborough
Evan’s on the ball for Haverhill coming forwards sends i on for Nolan out wide on the right looks to take on Ray jink inside her the full back sticking a leg across snatching the ball just in time. Peterborough coming forwards better now Gavaghan benefiting from the support able to impose herself on the game more. Haverhill busy in defence but between them, Blowes, Westrope and Harding are standing firm. The hosts make their 2nd change of the game Steed coming off, on in her place club captain Clair Andrews making her return to full fitness after spending the last 5 months out through injury.
Eve Lomasney bringing the ball on attacking for Peterborough
Lomasney operating out on the left now picking the ball up running at the Haverhill box lines up a strike from 20 yards out the ball charged down by Westrope. Has been a frustrating afternoon for Nolan so far a willing runner the ball just won’t run favourably for her, a heavy tough letting her down this time. An intriguing contest time running out, Peterborough looking likely to find a goal, Haverhill you think need a 2nd to give themselves some breathing room. A corner won by Wright on the left fired into the area Peterborough defending headed behind for a corner on the right. Put into the six yard box chested down by Brown swings into the shot struck hard blocked, Fairweather onto the loose ball brings it away for the visitors.
Haverhill’s Beth Harding
GOAL! 15 minutes left on the clock and Haverhill get that much needed 2nd goal. Peterborough are attacking play broken up Evens getting hold of the ball keeping it well before turn and playing a great ball out to the right wing for Nolan, all previous frustration forgotten as she collects the ball into her run surges on into the area and blasts a shot goalwards on the angle driven in low Durham on her line down well to save gloving the ball out towards the top of her area, Wright forwards getting hold of it smashing a shot back in takes a deflection send it past the stranded keeper to nestle in the back of the net… an own goal? I don’t think so and nor does Wright as she celebrates her first goal for the club 2-0.
Peterborough make a change bringing on Shannon Hilton for Spendelow. The visitors awarded a free-kick outside the Haverhill box on the right side Clarke on it attempts for goal her shot wide at the far post. Harlow’s turn to make a change Evans the player coming off on comes Hannah Doyle. Wright lively in attack away in behind as Peterborough push up, Durham out of her box to win the ball. Fairweather in with a strong challenge to win the ball outside the Haverhill box pushed onto Gavaghan, Harding diving in to close her down get the ball for the hosts.
Haverhill’s Amy Evans bringing the ball forwards
Fairweather in again to get hold of the ball keep Peterborough in the final third out to Lomasney on the left her first touch sending the ball on into the area a race with Westrope the defender winning it concedes the corner kick. Taken short up the line to Peeling, Westrope races out of the box to close her down charging down her attempted cross. Time running out Peterborough with a double change, Phillips and Spendelow back on, Lomasney and Gavaghan taken off.
Game management needed from Haverhill late on keep hold of the ball inside the Peterborough half don’t invite pressure. A quickly taken free-kick on half way from Peterborough launched up towards the area headed out of the box drops straight to Hilton 25 yards out slices her 1st times shot drops wide of goal. Up the field late on in stoppage time Peterborough fire a cross in from the right brought down comfortably by Brown back in defence carries the ball away from danger as the final whistle blows. Haverhill winning 2-0 to return to the top of the Premiership table.
Full time Haverhill Rovers Ladies 2-0 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves
A hard fought victory for Haverhill Rovers Ladies taking an early lead in the game, Peterborough making them work of the 3 points coming on strong in the 2nd half chances for both Haverhill looking solid in defence really needing that 2nd goal late on to dull their opponents attack. A good contest and both will face several more before the season’s over alot of football still to be played. Haverhill top by 2 points with 3 games over Peterborough others not far behind either the expanded league proving intriguing.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Several contenders once again and like last weekend another tough decision to decide this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Peterborough, Eve Lomasney was excellent in midfield especially first half looking to get thing’s going further forwards for the visitors. Eleanor Spendelow too lively out wide on the left making good runs and looking to set up others. Haverhill were impressive as a unit especially at the back particularly Georgina Westrope and Beth Harding. Julie Brown in midfield breaking up several Peterborough attacks not letting much get away from her. Today’s award though goes to attacker Jenna Wright coming off the bench early on made an impact straight away strong on the ball good work leading up to setting up Sian Cottrell for the opening goal. A threat all game scoring the 2nd goal.
Enjoyed my first outing to The New Croft. My thanks to both teams for giving me those all important team details always appreciated will be a keen observer watching the battle for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title unfold.
The last Round-Up of the week taking a lot back at the weekends action from the Suffolk Women’s Division an exciting contest at the top of the table, five games played this Sunday. Woodbridge Town Ladies impressive form continues 3 points clear at the top a fifth straight league win coming at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies at the weekend. Jenna Liverpool’s fantastic season in front of goal continues another brace at the weekend seeing her move onto 43 goals for the season. Her brace helping to secure the 3 point for Woodbridge winning the match 2-1. Paige White scoring from the penalty spot in the 75th minute for Brightlingsea the pair meeting in the reverse fixture this coming Sunday.
Woodbridge Town top of the table have played more than anyone else games in hand for the sides below, doesn’t necessarily guarantee points alot of football yet to be played, Brettvale Ladies having a strong 2nd season in the league themselves leading for a long period long unbeaten stay 2nd in the table 3 points behind Woodbridge winning at home to Leiston St Margarets on Sunday. Tarnya Mckew moving a goal clear over Abbie Fisher scoring at the weekend to move to 15 goals for the season. Brettvale’s pressure in attack leading to 2 own goals being conceded to see them win the match 3-0.
A trio of sides 3 points further back on 33 points all again with games in hand on Woodbridge at the top. Holland Ladies new to the league this season up to 33 points level with Needham Market Women Reserves and Bury Town Ladies running up a high scoreline away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women on Sunday. Holland losing just once this season way back on the opening weekend scoring plenty of goals spread out amongst the squad rattling in a double figure scoreline. Jasmine Cox top scoring in the match with 5 goals top scorer overall with 25 goals for the season now. There was a hat-trick for both Lauren Bourne and Sophie Blowers. Keeley Brickwood and Charlotte Robertson also on the scoresheet with a goal each along with Ellie Cox scoring her first Holland goal in a 14-0 win.
Bury Town Ladies briefly leading the Suffolk Women’s Division themselves before suffering back to back defeats got back to winning ways this weekend away to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies to keep themselves in contention for the title. Have been scoring plenty of goals this season and well spread out amongst the squad. Winning the match 7-1 Bury had 7 different names on the scoresheet. Julie Brind top scorer with her 18th of the season, Kirsten Hutchings on target to record her 12th of the campaign their were goals too for Sophie Hemming, Lyndsie Duemmel, Olivia Hodges, Norma Locker and captain Lisa Pratt with her first goal of the season. Cassie Howlett the goal scorer for Ramsey & Mistley her first goal for the side.
A high scoring win too for Brantham Athletic Ladies at home to AFC Kesgrave Ladies on the league on Sunday. Leading 4-1 at half-time went on to match the scoreline in the 2nd half to win the match 8-2. Maddie Hubbard with a brace in the first half along with goals for Lucy Dunnett and Danielle Harvey with her 14th goal of the season for Brantham. Daisy Woodward scoring a brace making her Brantham debut in the 2nd half Dunnett with her 2nd of the game with 5 minutes left and Sophie Crabtree in the 90th minute completing the scoreline. Abigail Eley with both the goals for an under strength Kesgrave.
A great result for Collier Row Tigers last weekend beating ERWFL side Hutton Ladies 7-4 to reach the last four of the Essex Women’s County Cup. Back to the league this weekend confidence high unbeaten dropping just two points so far this season 20 games without defeat overall top of the Premier Division were on the road taking on Rayleigh Town Ladies. Laura Bunton continues to enjoy herself in front of goal scoring another brace at the weekend to see her move to 38 goals for the season. Chloe Jackson alos bagging herself a brace moves onto 5 goals. Fran Pridie and Emma Harrison with her 11th strike of the season seeing Collier Row Tigers to a 6-1 victory keeping them 6 points clear at the top of the table Jess Bowen on the scoresheet for Rayleigh.
Silver End United Ladies 2nd in the Premier Division made it back to back away wins on Sunday claiming the 3 points against Southend United Ladies at the weekend. Silver End not at their best scoring in the first half Rosi Webb with her 11th goal of the season putting them ahead, Were pushed all the way by Southend thwarting them in defence the hosts unlucky not to take anything from the game Silver End remain 6 points behind Collier Row with a game in hand although they are fast running out in the league.
Frontiers Ladies are still there just haven’t played a competitive game since mid November that seeing them drop down the Premier Division table. Were finally back in action at home to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies at the weekend. A single goal enough for Frontiers to win all three points and move back above Southend United Ladies into 5th position. Calley Meville-Taylor with the goal her first for Frontiers and with games in hand on the sides above could yet push for a top 3 finish.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two games played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday and Runwell Sports Ladies close to within a point of leaders Corringham Cosmos Women win a four straight league win at home to Aveley Ladies on Sunday, Danielle Dorrington recently joining the squad making her 2nd appearance scoring her first goals scoring twice to see Runwell Sports clinch a 2-0 result. Have played 3 games more than Corringham but have an iron grip of 2nd spot 8 points clear of 3rd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development.
A tense battle in the middle of the Division One table Chigwell Ladies in 5th hosting 6th placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Stacy Bott on target for a brace to see Leigh Ramblers win the match 2-0 to move back above Tigers Ladies into 6th with games in hand on the sides above.
Essex Women’s Trophy
One outstanding quarter final tie to be played in the Essex Women’s Trophy postponed from last weekend Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves were hosting Hutton Ladies Reserves. Were actually scheduled to meet in the league the Trophy taking precedence. Hutton with a strong performance to book their spot in the last 4 of the competition beating Chelmsford 9-0 to set up a semi-final clash away to ERWFL Division One South side Lawford Ladies on Sunday 16th February. Billericay Town Ladies Reserves hosting Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies in the other Trophy semi-final.
Beginning this weeks Norfolk Round-Up with the one remaining tie to be played in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, and it was a huge test for Norfolk Women’s Division One side as they faced FAWNL South East Division One side Norwich City Women. 3 leagues between the sides Norwich keen to make progress in this season’s County Cup after falling in the early rounds since rejoining the competition a couple of season’s ago. A home tie against Wroxham Women awaiting the winner. Norwich holding a 3-0 lead at half-time, prevented Sprowston Athletic from scoring whilst adding a further 3 goals to progress into the last 4 with a 6-0 victory. The goals spread amongst the side with 3 players netting their first goals for the side, Lauren Cullum, Hannah Claughton and Jodie Drake. Eliza McDonald and Reeanna Cook also getting on the scoresheet along with Aimee Durrant scoring her 8th goal of the season.
Aimee Durrant on the scoresheet at the weekend against Sprowston Athletic with her 8th goal of the season for Norwich (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Norwich with now play Wroxham Women in the last four the game to be played on Sunday 16th February. Back to back winners Wymondham Town Ladies are away to Norfolk Division One side Sprowston Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
Plenty of cup action too elsewhere in the county with the Norfolk Women’s League Cup reaching the quarter finals stage. A strong line-up in the last 8 of the competition too with the top 4 in Division One all still involved. All showing great form in the first half of the season with plenty of goals in heir squads. Current League Cup holders Sprowston Ladies were at home to at Bungay Town Ladies winners of the League Cup the previous season, 2nd and 3rd in the league. Victoria Leyer has been prolific in front of goal for Sprowston once again this season and was on target for two goals in the fist half for the hosts on Sunday to move her onto 29 goals from just 10 appearances, a goal to for captain Abby Hutchin seeing Sprowston leading Bungay 3-1 at half-time. Selina Rowland netting the goal for Bungay pressed for more goals in the 2nd period Sprowston though standing firm in defence going on to win and book their place in the last 4 of the competition.
Sprowston Ladies opponents in the League Cup final last season were Tavern Ladies then of Division Two. Now riding high in Division One were away to familiar opponents Fakenham Town Ladies had knocked them out of the County Cup earlier in the season. Tavern scoring plenty of goals a potent attack force with players joining from midfield, Fakenham battling hard in defence goalkeeper Chloe Easter pulling off a number of saves, Katie Hart-Copsey scoring in the first half to put Tavern into the lead her 13th goal of the season proving to be decisive enough to send Tavern into the League Cup semi-finals for the 2nd successive season.
Elsewhere both Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies and their Reserves side playing in Division Two were both in quarter final action in the league cup. High scoring games Thorpe United Ladies Reserves were hosting Division One side Long Stratton Women. Samantha Walker captaining the side doing well in front of goal this season on fire at the weekend to score a double hat-trick for Long Stratton helping the club to reach their first semi-final in 9 years. A brace from Emily Watts making her return to the side and one for Ellie Sostman seeing Long Stratton to a 9-2 victory. Rachael Wall on target for both goals for Thorpe United Reserves.
Runaway leaders at the top of Division One with a 100% record from 11 played were away to Division Two newcomers Waveney Ladies in the quarter finals of the League Cup. Thorpe’s captain Rebekah Lake scoring a very large chunk of their goals this season bagging herself another 4 at the weekend against Waveney’s youngsters to take her to 35 for the season from 12 played. Thorpe running out double figure winners progressing to the last 4 of the competition with a 10-0 win, six other players celebrating a goal, Joanne Hooper, Ellie Hunter, Millie Cursons, Aneliese Smith, Alice Ladbrooke and Sophie Jermy.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One match played in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with Wymondham Town Ladies hosting Thetford Town Ladies. The visitors finding a bit of form in the league in recent weeks taking 4 points from their last two match Thetford pulling further away from the bottom two going above Wymondham into 8th place in the table as they made it 7 points from 3 matches winning at the weekend 2-1. Natalie Woods scoring for Wymondham but a 6th goal of the season from Melissa Boulton and a first of the campaign for Abbey Comstock securing the win for Thetford who may yet push for a mid-table finish following promotion from Division Two last season.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday, Hockering Ladies getting back to winning ways in the league at the weekend following back to back defeat plus a heavy loss in the League Cup to Tavern Ladies. Were hosting struggling Red Rose Ladies the 2nd bottom side short on numbers a situation Hockering were familiar with in the past. Took advantage to rack up a double figure scoreline winning by 11 goals to nil Hockering back up to 5th in the table.
Very tight though in the middle of the Division Two table with Hockering ahead on goal difference over North Walsham Ladies now 6th ahead of Mulbarton Wanderers who they beat at home on Sunday. Mulbarton another side short on numbers, North Walsham themselves with the bare 11, goals from Kiera Brown and Rhiannon Holt helping the hosts to a 3-0 victory.
A busy weekend of league and cup action across the county the title race in both the Premiership and Championship taking another twist, plus two outstanding games played in the quarter finals of the Invitation and Junior Invitation Cup.
Beginning with the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership three games played at the weekend. The league leaders Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves were at home taking on Ketton Ladies. 2 points clear at the top Peterborough fell behind to a well struck free-kick from near the half way line from Ketton captain Beth Goodman. Ella Gavaghan scoring an equalising goal for Peterborough in the 2nd half to see the pair take a share of the points.
Pressure now applied from Haverhill Rovers Ladies as they move up to 2nd over Leverington Sports Ladies to go a point behind Peterborough with the two due to meet this coming Sunday. This weekend were at home taking on Cambridge City Ladies A. A dominant display from Haverhill seeing them win all 3 points scoring 4 goals whilst keeping a clean sheet a bonus too having club captain Clair Andrews back in the squad after 5 months out with injury. Joeli Kirby scoring a brace to give her 7 for the season. Kayleigh Nolan on target for her 9th of the campaign along with a goal for Sophie Wing. Plenty of games for Haverhill left to play 3 games in hand on the leaders.
Nothing can be taken for granted however and a host of sides a well positioned to put pressure on the leading sides. St Ives Town Ladies Development climbing up to 5th in the Premiership table winning at the weekend at home to Histon Ladies Reserves. Bring an end to a run of 3 straight defeats in the league that had seen them slip down the table, goals from Molly Berryman, Maisie Buckle, Rebecca Baldry and Katie Luddy making her debut for the club seeing St Ives win the game 4-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Postponed from last weekend, FAWNL South East Division One side were away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side in the quarter finals of the Women’s Invitation Cup on Sunday a huge gap between the sides 3 divisions Cambridge City with a dominant performance running out comfortable winners. Karly Tolentino doubling her goals tally for the season netting a hat-trick. Hannah Bodily, Charlotte Gillies and Laura Mills all getting a goal each along with first goals of the season for defender Amy Reed and captain Becca Fay.
A hat-trick for Cambridge City Ladies Karly Tolentino at the weekend (photo credit Gary Reed)
Cambridge City Ladies will now meet Newmarket Town Women at home in the semi-finals with Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to Histon Ladies in the last 4 of the competition.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One outstanding quarter final played this Sunday too in the Women’s Junior Invitation Cup with Newmarket Town Women Development away to Burwell Tigers Ladies. Newmarket in good form coming into the game moving up the Championship table with a good first half going into the break leading 3-0. Both sides finding the back of the net for a goal each in the 2nd half Newmarket’s Development side into the last four winning 4-1. A goal each for top scorers Talia Irvine on 12 now with Leah Harper moving into double figures. First goals for the side too for Lauren Roberts and Hannah Rogers on her first appearance.
As in the semi-finals for the Invitation Cup Newmarket’s Development side will be away to Cambridge City Ladies new A side. Histon Ladies Reserves will face Swavesey Spartans Ladies at home in the other semi-final.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Five games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this Sunday and a significant result at the top of the table as leaders Cambridge Rangers Women succumbed to their first defeat of the season after setting a blistering start winning 12 in a row. Unlucky 13 as that magnificent ran came to an end away to Park Ladies at the weekend. Cambridge Rangers coming up against a Park side showing great form themselves winning 4 straight league games to move up the Championship table, a battling performance from both sides Park tough to break down taking the lead midway through the first half Nicole Saunders scoring her first goal of the season. Proved to be the winning goal as Park kept their opponents at bay to win the 3 points a 5th straight win taking them up to 5th.
2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies closing the gap to the leaders to 4 points albeit having played 2 game more bouncing back from defeat away to Eaton Socon Ladies last weekend won the 3 points on the road taking on Deeping United Ladies this Sunday. Katie Hayes netting her 18th goal of the season on the half hour to put Mildenhall 1-0 up at the break. Nadine Basson firing home from the penalty spot 10 minutes into the 2nd half doubling the lead. Caroline Limas with her first goal for Mildenhall wrapping up a 3-0 win in the 68th minute.
A first defeat of the season for Cambridge Rangers Women leaves just one side now in the Championship with a 100% winning record 3rd placed Pinchbeck United Ladies now 9 wins in a row 9 points behind the leaders with 4 games in hand. Alot of football still to play were at home taking on Hungate Rovers Ladies at the weekend. Pinchbeck winning the match 2-0 with Libby Friel and Freya Peters scoring their 8th and 9th goals of the season respectfully.
A 7 goals thriller between Cambourne United Women mid-table in the Championship at home to bottom side Swavesey Spartans Ladies on Sunday. Helen Carder-Hall scoring for Cambourne in the 6th minute. Alice Taylor with the hosts 2nd goal in the 21st minute, Carder-Hall getting her 2nd of the game on the stroke of half-time. Swavesey Spartans despite their lowly position in the league with several close results so far this season scoring 3 goals themselves, missing out once again as Cambourne went on to win 4-3, Taylor with her 2nd of the match scoring in the 84th minute.
Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development move out of the bottom two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship after earning a point in a high scoring match at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. The game ending with honours even both sides scoring 3 goals. Gemma Codling on target for her 9th goal of the season for Haverhill, Natasha Caine celebrating a goal along with a first of the season for Sarah Goodey. Poppy Green bagging a brace for Isleham to move her to 7 for the season, Kate Silver with the visitor other goal.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies return to the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One moving 3 points clear of St Albans Ladies who moved top on goal difference last weekend. St Albans involved in the League Cup this Sunday thier semi-final match at home to AFC Dunstable Women Blues abandoned due to an injury with St Albans 3-2 up at the time, to be replayed in a fortnights time. Wishing the injured players all the best for a speedy recovery.
Hemel Hempstead were hosting Royston Town Women Development at the weekend in the league a cracking game between the sides a close scoreline Royston scoring through Holly Fox her first goal of the season unlucky in the finish not to take anything from the game losing 2-1. Hemel Hempstead strong throughout the 90 minutes scoring twice to win the game 2-1, Amy Bentall and Charlene Turturici-Clarke with the goals.
Fifth placed Garston Ladies 1st team climb above their weekends opponents Hartham United Ladies to go fourth joining 3rd placed Northwood Ladies on 20 points. The game played at Hartham on Sunday a dominant display from the visitors Garston running out comfortable winners in the finish scoring 5 goals with out reply to make it 4 straight wins in the league. Jade Roberts on target to score a hat-trick. Cassandra Chase also on he scoresheet along with Sian Fisken scoring her 7th goal of the season.
The 2nd Hitchin derby of the season played this Sunday in Division One with Hitchin Town Ladies suffering 3 straight defeats against the top 3 in the league falling away from the top of the table at home to Hitchin Belles bottom of the table with just one point so far from their opening 10 games. A 4-0 win for Hitchin Town in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Hitchin Belles with an early goal this weekend Amy Jack scoring from a 20 yard free-kick. Hitchin Town coming back to level the scores and take the lead with Holly Darling netting both goals and own goal seeing Hitchin Town secure the 3 points with a 3-1 win that keeps them in contention for a top 4 finish just 2 points behind Northwood and Garston.
The points shared in a high scoring draw between Letchworth Garden City Eagles and Houghton Athletic Ladies in Division One at the weekend a brace each for Letchworth’s Tayla Murray and Houghton Athletic’c Ciara Craig both moving to 5 for the season. The game ending 3-3. Bethany Phillips scoring the other goal for Houghton Athletic her 4th of the campaign with Ellie Watson on target for her first goal of the season for Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
As tight as ever at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the gap between the top 4 now once again just a point, with 3rd and 4th placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies & Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses both winning away from home to join Langford Ladies in 2nd on 21 points one behind AFC Dunstable Women Blues at the top.
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies were away to Watton Ladies this Sunday their first league match since December the 1st. Despite being short no numbers Kempston & Bedford comfortable at the final whistle winning the game 4-0 to collect the 3 points, Freya Green scoring a brace. Charlie Mullins on target to score her 6th goal of the season with Natasha Wing on the scoresheet to make it 5 for the campaign.
Reaching the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup final last weekend winning away to Houghton Athletic Ladies in their semi-final, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses returned to winning ways in the league this Sunday away from home taking on Garston Ladies Vintage Purples. The hosts never able to get into their stride Woburn & Wavendon getting their noses in front on the half hour to lead 1-0 at the break with Jess Katsinas scoring her first goal for the club in her 3rd appearance. Holly Venn doubling the lead in the 2nd half with her 8th strike of the season to secure a 2-0 win for the visitors.
Evergreen Ladies with a good 2nd half performance away to bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies on Sunday sees them pull further clear of the bottom 2 themselves. A fairly uneventful first half ending goalless between the pair. The dead lock broken early in the 2nd half with Louise Popkin putting Evergreen into the lead. Youngster Grace Gibbons scoring a brace to send the visitors into a 3-0 lead, another 2 from Rebecca Freeman seeing the game won 5-0.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Four matches played too in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday. Herts Vipers topping the table making it 10 straight league wins since joining the league this season scoring plenty of goals too fast closing in on 80 goals whilst keeping it tight at the back conceding just 4 goals from those 10 games. Another clean sheet this Sunday away to Kempston Rovers Ladies as they ran in the goals up the other end. Kesley Mullen getting Herts Vipers off the mark within the opening minute scoring her 11th goal of the season. Top scorer Nicole Jancey on target to double the lead before the opening 15 minutes were up. Dominant Herts Vipers went 3-0 up 5 minutes later through a Tazmin Symonds Bishop goal. Midfielder Sarah Payne recently joining the side bringing a wealth of experience to the side celebrating her first goal for the club in the 35th minute. A 2nd goal for Millen late in the first period seeing Herts Vipers take a 5-0 lead into the break. Quickly became 6-0 at the start of the 2nd half Jancey scoring her 2nd of the game and 38th of the season. Payne winning Player of the Match scoring her 2nd of the game on the hour. Rachel Wall with a goal midway through the 2nd half sealing an 8-0 win for Herts Vipers.
Match action from Kempston Rovers v Herts Vipers (photo credit Graham Dear)
10 wins from 10 for Herts Vipers they can’t rest on their laurels in the race for the title as their lead remains just 3 points, beating Biggleswade United Ladies in a top of the table clash a fortnight ago Biggleswade in 3rd bounced back with a big home win over Flitwick Eagles Ladies last Sunday to move level with 2nd placed Harvesters Ladies. The pair meeting this weekend with Biggleswade the away side, a close match between the pair and despite making hard work of it at times Biggleswade came out on top to win the game 3-2 to claim the 3 points and move 3 points clear into 2nd themselves. Zoe Molloy scoring her 11th goal of the season, there were also goals for Grace Leslie and a first for the club for Sarah King.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies playing their first league match of 2020 this Sunday were away to Evergreen Eagles in Division Three. A hat-trick for top scorer Chloe Ward taking her into double figures for the season on 11 along with a goal for Holly Konopka securing a 4-0 win that keeps them right up on the sides battling for a top half finish in the league.
A third win of the season for Flitwick Eagles Ladies sees them pull further clear of the bottom sides after they won comfortably at home to bottom placed Buntingford Town Ladies on Sunday. Brittany Holdsworth scoring her 11th goal of the season firing Flitwick into the lead in the 22nd minute, Anna Bright with her 8th of the season quickly doubling the advantage. Charlie Newton scoring her first goal of the season with 5 minutes left in the half seeing Flitwick into a 3-0 lead at the break. Victoria Harrold also celebrating her first goal of the season adding to Flitwick’s lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Newton going on to score to more goals in the 64th and 84th minute to make it a hat-trick and a 6-0 win for the hosts.
With runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies playing their rearranged League Cup game this weekend it was a chance for the chasing sides to reduce their 9 point lead at the top. Remains very tight in the Premier Division below Harlow with just 6 points between the 2nd and 9th placed sides in the table all fancying their chances of pushing on in their final games of the season.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies topping the chasers in 2nd spot were at home to bottom side AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. Dunstable very nearly opening the scoring in the 10th minute Peterborough goalkeeper Sarah Hudson tipping the shot over the bar, going on to claim the resulting corner and setting up Katie Steward to put the hosts 1-0 up in the 11th minute. Peterborough comfortable after that going on to take a 2-0 lead in the 20th minute Evie Driscoll-King heading home from a corner kick. Peterborough continuing in the same vein at the start of the 2nd half Chanade Henderson thumping a header against the crossbar before Georgia Coulson made it 3-0 chasing in onto a rebound to make it 3-0. Steph Gale introduced to the action scoring an audacious goal with the outside of her boot looping into the net leaving the keeper standing. Coulson at the back post turning in her 2nd of the match making it 5-0. Dunstable substitute Daniella Snowden putting away a cross pulling a goal back with 15 minutes to play. Time at the end for Gale to score her 2nd of the game following good work from Katie Stewards on the wing 6-1 the final score.
A brace for Peterborough’s Steph Gale on Sunday including an outrageous effort with the outside of her boot (photo credit James Cox)
Luton Town hot on Peterborough’s heels in 3rd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division two points behind with a game winning away from home on Sunday against 2nd bottom side Haringey Borough Women. Rebecca Kane netting a first half hat-trick to take her onto 14 goals for the season. Opening the scoring in the 9th minute put through by Rebecca Ferris into the box to slot the ball under the advancing keeper. Kane’s 2nd in the 29th minute scoring from close range off Elly Wade’s cross. The hat-trick coming 5 minutes later send through on goal by Zara Carroll. 3-0 up at half-time Jess McKay edging back into the lead as top scorer for Luton with her 15th of the season in the 78th minute. Tanya Blacksley with her first goal of the season for Luton heading in from a corner in the 90th minute to see the game won 5-0.
With Royston Town Women’s home match against Wroxham called off both Colney Heath Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies took full advantage winning their home matches to climb above them into 5th and 6th respectfully in the ERWFL Premier Division. Colney Heath Ladies hosting St Ives Town Ladies who had Kira Markwell back in goal after the keeper sustained a nasty injury towards the end of last season. Not much between the sides in the opening half hour, Colney Heath’s Rianne Townsend winning the ball on half way sending Megan Kelly away on the right her shot fired into the top corner to make it 1-0. The visitors defending up the other end to hold their lead going into the break. Both goalkeepers called into action in the 2nd half St Ives keeping Colney Heath from adding to their lead frustrated not to get anything from the game in the finish.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies climb up to 6th in the Premier Division table winning at home to an in form Bedford Ladies who had previously won 4 straight games in league and cup. A good start from Bowers & Pitsea undone in the 10th minute as Natasha Fensome ran through onto a loose ball at the back to put Bedford into the lead. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores applying pressure late in the first half Courtney Fraser’s cross turned in by Danni Jennings in the 39th minute to see it level at 1-1 at half-time. Into the 2nd half a long stoppage on play with Bowers & Pitsea’s Yasmin Cowley suffering what appeared to be a serious knee injury, unable to continue awaiting scans to determine the extent of the damage can only wish her all the best for a full and speedy recovery. Bowers & Pitsea rallying well as play resumed taking the lead midway through the 2nd half Megan Harley scoring direct from a corner. The hosts pushing on creating more chances making the lead more comfortable in the 83rd minute Harley with her 2nd of the game a looping strike from 30 yards out. Harley completing her hat-trick in the final minute running away down the wing sending her shot into the top corner Bowers & Pitsea winning 4-1.
ERWFL Cup
One outstanding tie left to play in the 1st Round of this season’s ERWFL Cup, the game postponed from a fortnight ago due to minibus trouble for Harlow Town Ladies on the way to the game rearranged for this Sunday the ERWFL Premier Division leaders heading up to Norfolk to play Wymondham Town Ladies. Close games between the pair in the league Wymondham the only side managing to take points off Harlow. Meeting the the League Cup both sides affected by injuries and absences only able to field one substitute each a fast start to the game Harlow taking the lead inside 6 minutes a diagonal ball launched up into the area deflected into the path of top scorer Becky Shephard burying her shot to put Harlow into the lead. Wymondham coming back to level the scores quickly defender Lauren Kett putting Wymondham’s top scorer and captain Hannah Waters through clear on goal wrong footing the keeper outside the box to send the shot past her into the empty net 1-1. The game continued to be played at a rapid tempo a number of free-kicks given away players in the wars Danni Clarke in goal for Wymondham with a brave save at the feet of Harlow’s Liv Steele.
Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters with both goals for Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday
1-1 at half-time a hand injury to Clarke seeing her having to come off Freya Symonds taking over in goal putting in an assured performance the defence working hard in front of her both sides attacking an open game and injury to midfielder Mollie O’Callaghan seeing Wymondham forced to play the final 20 minutes with 10 players, despite that upped their effort coming closest to finding the winning goal in normal time Mia Etheridge’s driven shot on the angle smashing against the bar. 90 minutes up the scores all square the tie heading into extra-time. Wymondham back up to 11 with Clarke coming on to support the midfield. Alot of effort put in by both sides Wymondham finding a goal late in the first period of extra play, from a corner the ball retrieved wide fired back across goal flicked on for Waters rising to get her boot on the ball turn it in at close range. Wymondham managing the 2nd period well frustrating Harlow going on to win the match book their place in the quarter finals. The full match report can be found further down the page.
ERWFL Division One North
Plenty of action too in ERWFL Division One North at the weekend with all 8 sides in action including a top of the table clash between leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development at home to 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The visitors coming into the match off the back of a strong run to close the gap on the leaders. Had the better of the 1st half with goals from Katie Ward and superb strike from Tegan Wheeler seeing them into a 2-0 lead at half-time. A complete turn around in the 2nd half as Cambridge City came back from 2 down to in the game 3-2. Carla Penny with her 15th goal of the season bringing it back to 2-1 on the hour. Rachel Pearce equalising just 3 minutes later a well struck free-kick flying in under the bar. The hosts taking the lead in the 72nd minute awarded a corner the ball fired into a crowded box, bodies everywhere Kayla Krett getting the telling touch to score her first goal for the side, proving what would be the winning goal Cambridge City pulling away 7 points clear at the top.
Cambridge City Ladies Development before Sunday’s game (photo credit Chris Mosley)
Very tight below the top two sides with just a point between the next 4 in the Division One North table. Newmarket Town Women ahead of Histon Ladies in 3rd on goal difference winning at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday. Captain Bethany Woodfield putting Newmarket into the lead on 18 minutes that the advantage at the break. Sudbury’s young side working hard to improve week in week out coming back to level the scores with and hour played. Newmarket straight back into the lead 5 minutes later a corner won. Jess Linger with the inswinging delivery pressure on the goal line the ball over the line Linger credited with the goal winning the 3 points for her side.
Histon Ladies matching Newmarket’s 14 point tally in 4th position in the Division One North table winning at home to Suffolk side East Bergholt United Ladies at the weekend. Brie Baker setting up Poppy Kelly to open the scoring for Histon on 6 minutes. Molly Blair heading in a Sophie Lanham cross on 27 minutes to see Histon 2-0 up at half-time. East Bergholt coming back to make it 2-1 with Elena Nitsche on target in the 70th minute but with the visitors pushing from an equaliser later on Histon hit them on the counter to win the game 3-1 in the 90th minute Kelly scoring her 2nd of the game. Just one point from their last 5 league games for East Bergholt after a promising start to the season countered by back to back cup wins.
Histon wearing black armbands on Sunday in memory of Stephen Parker who sadly passed away earlier in the week after losing his battle with cancer a tremendous fan and servant of Histon football club helping with the Ladies side recently. Has help me on a number of occasions RIP.
Histon Ladies wearing black armbands in memory of Stephan Parker on Sunday (photo credit Histon Ladies)
Needham Market Women joining Suffolk rivals East Bergholt on 13 points now 5th in the Division One North table with a big home win over bottom side Gorleston Ladies on Sunday. Getting off to a fast start Abbie Wilkinson crossing for Francesca Rainbird to score in the 2nd minute. Lina Nagib’s run through into the box seeing the ball deflect off a defender into the path of striker Lois Balfour to make it 2-0 on 21 minutes. A minute later Balfour netted her 2nd of the game heading an Ashleigh Goddard ball. Balfour celebrating her hat-trick a few minutes later turning in Rainbird’s cross. 4-0 at the Annie Northwood introduced to the action with a goal 3 minutes after the restart. Rainbird scoring her 2nd of the game a couple of minutes later Needham market 6-0 with 50 minutes gone. Gorleston capitalising on sloppy play at the back from Needham Market pulling a goal back on the hour. Northwood with her 2nd of the game from a Gemma Moore corner then setting up Abbie Wilkinson to make it 8-1 completed her hat-trick with 3 minutes left. Needham market winning 9-1.
ERWFL Division One South
Two matches in ERWFL Division One South at the weekend leaders Millwall Lionesses away to 3rd placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies. Millwall unbeaten at the top of the table getting off to a disastrous start conceding 2 goals inside the opening 8 minutes. Millwall settling building some momentum Leigh Ramblers with a 3rd goal disallowed for a foul in the build up. Molly Hawkins forcing a save from Leigh’s keeper. Shannan Drewe with a rocket to pull a goal back for the visitors with 21 minutes gone. 2-1 to Leigh Ramblers at the break Millwall out of the blocks 2nd half Drewe netting her 2nd of the game to level the scores in the 52nd minute. Leigh Ramblers providing a stern test hitting the crossbar midway through the 2nd half. Late drama Leigh Ramblers stealing the ball on the Millwall 18 yards line to retake the lead 3-2. The game into the final minute a free-kick for Millwall floated into the box met by new signing Kaitlyn Lewis to score in her debut. The game ending in a stalemate 3-3. The point enough for Leigh Ramblers to climb above Hutton into 2nd spot in the table their goals scored by Paige White and a brace for Rebecca Dalgarno.
Wodson Park Ladies winning 4-2 in the ERWFL Plate a fortnight ago made it back to back wins this Sunday again at home taking on bottom side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Kristina O’Connell joining from Hoddesdon opening her Wodson Park account with a hat-trick against Sudbury repeated the feat against her former club this weekend with Carly Snell also getting a goal to see Wodson Park win 4-2 to pull away from the bottom two. Sam Garner in the first half and Rebecca Scola in the 2nd scoring for Hoddesdon.
