Three sides from the FAWNL Southern and South East Division One reaching the 4th Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup. History already made for both Ipswich Town Women and Billericay Town Ladies from South East Division One getting this far in the competition.
Leading FAWNL South East Division One, Ipswich Town Women beating Southern Premier Division side Portsmouth FC Women in the 3rd Round drawn away to another FAWNL Premier Division side in the 4th Round playing in the Northern section, Huddersfield Town Women. The game played at Huddersfield Town FC’s John Smith’s Stadium, the women’s side playing their for the first time. Ipswich getting off to a fantastic start a long clearance forwards, 16-year-old attacker Maddie Biggs giving chase beating both defender and the advancing keeper well out of her area to take the ball on into the empty box and place the ball into the back of the net. Biggs at it again just 8 minutes later to send the visitors into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes pulling away at the near post to head the ball dropped in from the left across the goal to score.
Ipswich Town Women celebrating a goal at the John Smith’s Stadium on Sunday through to the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Ipswich on top pressing numbers forwards going further ahead in the 20th minute Sophie Peskett free on the right sending in a fantastic cross, top scorer Natasha Thomas sliding in at the near post to beat the keeper. Huddersfield with chances themselves Ipswich goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles with a fantastic diving save to deny them a strike from distance. Late in the first half Biggs going on to complete her first senior hat-trick for Ipswich the visitors breaking good work from Thomas against the defence picking out Biggs free inside the box the send the Suffolk side into a 4-0 lead at half-time. Huddersfield came out fighting in the 2nd half Lucy Sowerby with her 18th goal of the season seeing them pull a goal back early in the 2nd half. Runnacles though with a couple more top draw saves to prevent the hosts adding to the score Ipswich’s historic run goes on into the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup the reward a dream tie away to FAWSL side Manchester City Women.
A last gasp winner in the previous round against fellow South East Division One side seeing Billericay Town Ladies making history themselves in the Women’s FA Cup were drawn away to Championship side Lewes FC Women. The Essex side pushing their higher league opponents all the way in the end losing out by just one penalty in the shootout after sending the ti into extra-time. Paula Howells putting Lewes into the lead a great first touch to control the ball outside the box 20 yards out turning and striking home from the half volley. Billericay coming back to level the scores pressure on a Lewes throw on the right leading to the ball being crossed into the area picked up by Therese Addison a drop of the shoulder to take her round a defender before striking the ball across the face of goal into the bottom corner. No further goals added Billericay more than matching Lewes on the pitch the game going into extra-time having to be settled from the penalty spot, 5 kicks each in the shoot out anguish for Billericay’s Zoe Rushen as her kick came back off the post, Lewes successful scoring all 5 of their penalties celebrating as they reach the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup, a tremendous effort from Billericay.
It was top of the FAWNL Northern Premier Division versus top of the Southern Premier Division as Watford made the long trip up to the North East to play Sunderland AFC Ladies. Two of the founding members of FAWSL 2 now the Championship both targeting a return to the league this season meeting in the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup. Sunderland with a strong start to the game Watford chances restricted looked to be heading in goalless at the break, Sunderland’s Keira Ramshaw firing the hosts into the lead in the 45th minute. Watford’s Emma Beckett seeing a free-kick struck from outside the box saved by Sunderland’s keeper on the hour. Watford’s Chrissie Wiggins saving up the other end following a scramble from a corner the game heading into the final 15 minutes, Ramshaw scoring her 2nd of the match to double Sunderland’s lead heading home from a corner kick. Watford unable to find a reply Sunderland advancing to the 5th Round of the competition.
The draw for the last 16 of the Women’s FA Cup made live on the BBC News Channel last evening the ties to be played Sunday 16th February as follows:-
Bristol City Women v Everton Women
Coventry United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Women
Leicester City Women v Reading FC Women
Crystal Palace Women of Southampton Women’s FC v Brighton & Hove Albion Women
Manchester City Women v Ipswich Town Women
Arsenal Women v Lewes FC Women
Sunderland AFC Ladies v Birmingham City Women
Chelsea Women v Liverpool FC Women
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
One match played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with leaders Watford Ladies in Women’s FA Cup action, 2nd placed Crawley Wasps Ladies took full advantage to beat 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies at home to move 3 points clear at the top of the table. The hosts taking an early lead inside 2 minutes scoring from their first attack a left wing cross headed out of the area by the Cardiff defence dropping straight to the on rushing Megan Stow from midfield, striking the ball hard from 20 yards out to put Crawley ahead. Crawley strong at the start of the game further chances to extend the lead missed whilst at the back Darcey James made a couple of good challenges to thwart Cardiff. 1-0 at half-time. Cardiff keeper, Laura O’Sullivan with a great save to deny Sam Pittuck in the 2nd half neither side with a clear cut chance after that Crawley awarded a penalty with 15 minutes left to play Naomi Cole putting it away to see Crawley win the game 2-0.
FAWNL Plate
FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women made the long journey into the South West to play Southern Premier Division side Plymouth Argyle Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Plate competition on Sunday. Few opportunities created in the opening quarter hour Plymouth with some good build up play winning a corner kick in the 19th minute the ball played into the box by Helen Bleazard turned in by captain Katie Middleton. Plymouth quickly doubling their lead going 2 up 4 minutes later Bow Jackson putting the ball on for Bethany Everson to round a defender and slot the ball into the bottom corner. Benjamin Kyle with a fantastic save to keep a clean sheet for the hosts at the other end heading into the half-time interval 2-0 up. Plymouth with a good start to the 2nd half it was Stevenage though on the hour that would score the next goal Nicole Emmings running clear from a goalkeepers kick to send the ball into the back of the net. Bleazard causing problems on the wing for Plymouth delivering a cross into the box that saw an own goal scored Plymouth 3-1 with 15 minutes to play going on to win and book their place in he last 4 of the competition. Are joined by Middlesborough Women who beat Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The other two semi-finals featuring Chichester City Ladies and Watford Ladies and Bolton Wanderers v West Bromich Albion played this coming Sunday.
FAWNL South East Division One
One game played also in FAWNL South East Division One and just as in the Southern Premier Division whilst the league leaders Ipswich Town Women were making more history in the Women’s FA Cup, 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies who beat Ipswich last time out took full advantage to move top of the table themselves winning away to Cambridge United WFC. Megen Lynch making her debut in goal for Wimbledon. The visitors taking an early lead Katie Stanley lobbing the keeper from quite some distance to open the scoring. Cambridge restricting Wimbledon in attack after that few chances a goal late in the first period for Wimbledon ruled off for offside. 1-0 at the break Wimbledon going 2-0 midway through the 2nd half Stanley setting up Georgia Heasman to fire in the goal for Wimbledon. Move 2 points clear at the top of the table but still very tight in the top half of South East Division One the chasing sides all with games in hand.
Wasn’t the intention to have a two week break from the football a weekend off and then a game postponed late on seeing no action on Women’s Football East for a fortnight, keen to get back at it this Sunday, the action from the 1st Round of the ERWFL Cup, Wymondham Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies.
The game itself originally due to be played a fortnight ago, cancelled on the day due to Harlow Town Ladies mini-bus being hit by a lorry whilst parked up at the services on route to Norfolk. The game rearranged for this Sunday, a group stage played in the first half of the season between the Division One clubs the 4 group winners going on to the knockout stages of the ERWFL League Cup joined by the 12 Premier Division sides.
The ERWFL Cup is certain to be hotly contested if the league itself is anything to go by, Harlow Town Ladies are well clear at the top but beyond that just 7 points separate 2nd placed Peterborough Northern Star Ladies down to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in 9th. Wymondham Town Ladies in amongst those currently in 7th spot well placed to push on for a top half finish. Everyone capable to taking points off each other going on a run.
Wymondham Town Ladies promoted two seasons ago along with Harlow, doing well despite having an awful injury list to contend with, several players out with long term injuries including captain and vice-captain Rachel Cossey and Leah Newcombe both suffering bad knee injuries during last season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup win at Carrow Road. Both on the road to recovery Newcombe in particular close to a return. Long term injuries to hitting their defence with Bethany Fretwell, Chardonnay Johnston and Summer Ward all out. New players arriving in the summer, Mia Etheridge from AFC Sudbury and Jennifer Codman from Fakenham Town Ladies. Freya Symonds too with a trio of ex-Ipswich players, Cassie Craddock, Jac Ball and goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Plenty of goals within the squad captain and striker Hannah Waters with 19 to her name top scoring.
Harlow Town Ladies have enjoyed alot of success in their short history regularly winning promotions moving up the women’s football pyramid the Essex side are currently 9 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division and in a strong position to go on and win the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL for the first time in their history. Undefeated have won all but one of their 12 league matches so far this season. The only points dropped way back on the opening day a 1-1 draw with today’s cup opponents Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow coming back to win 4-3 in the reverse fixture. Have brought in several players to add experience to their young squad, goals too, Becky Shephard one of those new arrivals netting 22 goals so far this season.
Ketts Park the home to Wymondham Town Ladies a new venue on the outskirts of the town close to the A11. My first visit to the ground a smart facility offering a main 3G playing surface available for hire. Grass pitches beyond. The clubhouse offering hot drinks with plenty of parking outside. The 3G pitch itself a good size with adequate room for spectators to stand beside the pitch. Overcast conditions rain forecast not expected to arrive until after the game a stiff breeze making it feel chilly. A hot cup of tea welcome.
Both sides with absentees through injury and unavailability on the day. Harlow frustrated having travelled with two new signings but both ineligible to play under league cup rules, alos missing the experience of players such as Nicole Farmer, Georgia Box and Amy Nash, only able to name one substitute. Wymondham likewise having a few missing having just the one on the bench.
Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Danni Clarke, Becca Russell, Chelsea Clarke, Lauren Kett, Jac Ball, Katie Knights, Jennifer Codman, Mollie O’Callaghan, Freya Symonds, Mia Etheridge & Hannah Waters (C) Subs – Cassie Craddock.
Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Tayla Handscombe, Fran Gamble, Kaydee King (C), Mel Jones, Chloe Bassett, Abbey Dell, Beth Chambers, Lucy Edmeades, Becky Shephard & Liv Steele. Subs – Evie Love.
(Roll on roll off substitutes)
Wymondham wearing red shirts and shorts with black shorts to kick-off the first half. Harlow in their away colours yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The hosts playing the ball back into their defence Harlow rushing forwards to press the ball Abbey Dell involved straight away, a long punt forwards cleared by Harlow captain Kaydee King gathered by Wymondham goalkeeper Danni Clarke. Harlow build down their left winning a throw deep in the Wymondham half controlled the cross lifted high towards the top of the area, Freya Symonds up to head clear for Wymondham.
A bright start from Harlow pressing the ball, Wymondham look to break the ball into Mollie O’Callaghan’s feet left side of midfield looks to take it on chopped down inside the Harlow half. A fee-kick given the ball put across the park to Becca Russell forwards on the wing lifts it on for Mia Etheridge the flag goes up against her. O’Callaghan bringing the ball on once again is brought down as she sends it on for Symonds play brought back for the fee-kick, further forwards Chelsea Clarke over it into the box, caught by Harlow goalkeeper, Charlie Orwell.
GOAL! 6 minutes played and an early break through, Harlow take the lead Beth Chambers getting hold of the ball left side inside the Wymondham half playing a dangerous looping diagonal ball in towards the top of the area Chelsea Clarke stretching to clear can only push it into the onrushing Becky Shephard’s path takes it on a yard before driving a powerfully struck shot past Danni Clarke into the back of the net 0-1.
Becky Shephard with the opening goal for Harlow Town Ladies after 6 minutes
Wymondham go on the attack straight from the restart players up and around the 18 yard box, O’Callaghan tries her luck from range 25 yards out off target, Orwell able to come across her goal to collect. Harlow’s Chloe Bassett receiving the ball centrally off a throw in on the left turns and hits a shot goalwards from 25 yards out swearing through the air Danni Clarke back on her line keeps her eyes on it catching safely. Gamble with a great tackle to stop Etheridge from stealing in behind her with the ball on the right side for Harlow.
GOAL!Harlow caught with a high line as Wymondham play the ball forwards Lauren Kett winning it at the ball bringing it on firing a low pass forwards over half way captain Hannah Waters getting away from King to latch onto the ball a carry it on towards the area Orwell coming to the top of her area to close the angle Waters shaping to shot shifting to her right to get wide of the keeper and send the ball on to score. Wymondham back on level terms just 6 minutes after conceding 1-1.
Wymondham Town Ladies captain Hannah Waters levels the scores
Wymondham with their tails up strong in the middle of the park Etheridge getting hold of the ball taking players on central looks to play a one two with Katie Knights run on in behind as Knights attempts to lift the ball over the defence, Bassett reading it in to take the ball away for Harlow. The visitors looking to make use of the flanks Beth Chambers left side has Dell racing into space on the wing sends the ball in for her to take on down the line a strong run cuts back inside to deliver the cross near post with Shephard making the good run, the attack rising aiming to flick the ball with her boot in across goal doesn’t get enough on it the ball put behind wide.
Beth Chambers striking the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
Lucy Edmeades away into space on the opposite wing sending a dangerous cross into the six yards box too high for Danni Clarke to save, no one coming in at the back post for Harlow. Danni Clarke with an excellent and brave piece of goalkeeping soon after as Harlow thread a long ball through the middle with Liv Steele attacking the area right, Clarke rushing out sliding in to make the blocking save at Steele’s feet, the striker coming off worse for the clash. Harlow win a free-kick wide right a good delivery into the box Steele positioned on the penalty spot cushioning the ball down looking to swing into the shot the Wymondham defence rush in to block at close range.
Steele has take a couple for knocks needs to come off from treatment Harlow making the first change of the match, Evie Love coming on to join Shephard up top. O’Callaghan is certainly in the wars for Wymondham getting clattered again the free-kick striking the wall set up by Harlow Symonds though retrieves for the hosts left side sends in a cross, Orwell coming near post to claim. A competitive game played at a fast past both sides giving free-kicks away Harlow turn with a set-piece inside the Wymondham half, Gamble over the ball towards the left a good way out nevertheless goes for goal a high ball in dropping late Danni Clarke can’t get it the ball clatters against the ball drops back into play stabbed back towards go Clarke back on her line down smartly to save on the line.
Katie Knights on the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies
Katie Knights making several good runs with the ball through the middle for Wymondham sends in through for Waters to chase in attack, Orwell out of her area early trapping the ball with her legs inside the D clearing before Waters can get it. O’Callaghan with a shot from distance bouncing low through towards goal left side Orwell down to save the ball behind for a corner kick. Defending the ball Harlow clear up to half way Evie Love looking to break is fouled by Kett a free-kick awarded. Gamble to play it forwards players up into the box King bringing it down her tough too strong allowing Wymondham to steal in and clear top of the area.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
Is getting a little heated out there a bit of pushing and shoving going on quickly dealt with by the referee the game continues to set a furious pace challenges strong at times. Several players talked too already. A quick free-kick by Gamble into Steele central puts it on quickly Shephard away but adjudged offside as she shoots. Mel Jones turning play around quickly in the middle for Harlow forwards for Shephard beating the offside trap this time can’t control her shot top of the area, Jac Ball back to win possession for Wymondham. Pressuring the ball inside the Wymondham half Harlow’s Bassett gets away on the right crossing from the corner Shephard coming near side sends it wide.
Mollie O’Callaghan weighing up her passing options for Wymondham Town Ladies
Wymondham making ground on the right win a throw the ball into the feet of Waters right corner of the box plays the pass infield to Knights central has O’Callaghan to her left gives her the ball Harlow back defending their area O’Callaghan comes back in central looking to get a shot away finds a way through but not past Orwell as she drops to save the ball. Etheridge and Chambers clash going for the ball, Chambers down landing awkwardly play stopped so she can receive treatment up gingerly play resumes with a free-kick to Harlow to the bemusement of the home support.
Harlow captain Kaydee King clearing the ball
Into the closing moments of the first half, Wymondham also frustrated at the number of offside decisions going against them Waters a constant threat enjoying a fantastic battle with King intriguing to watch Waters thinking she’s got half a yard only to be pulled back by the flag. Dell covering alot of ground across the park for Harlow setting the tone for the game for much of the first half wants to be in the thick of the action breaking up a number of Wymondham moves. The offside flag up against Edmeades on the right a decision that infuriates the Harlow bench. Knights sneaking in to take the ball plays Waters through central not catching her strike cleanly the ball straight at Orwell catch after the initial save pops out of her gloves. The last action of the half.
Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies
A fast paced game so far competitive not alot between the sides, the pace leading to several mistimed challenges plenty of free-kicks given away and knocks being picked up. Harlow with an early goal Wymondham coming straight back to level has remained even Harlow hitting the bar from a free-kick. Changes for both sides at half-time. Cassie Craddock on for Wymondham the players off goalkeeper Danni Clarke suffering a hand injury the tall Freya Symonds donning the gloves for the 2nd period. Chambers off for Harlow with Steele back on.
Harlow to get the 2nd half underway the temperature dropping considerably very chilly on the sidelines now. The visitors getting an early set-piece on halfway King to play the ball out to Edmeades on the right side in space cuts inside no shot on lays the ball across the top of the area for Bassett laying it back to Gamble she floats a high ball in towards goal safely caught by Symonds. Handscombe brings the ball on through the middle for Harlow pushing on towards the D is closed down by three Wymondham defenders Craddock putting in the final tackle to get the ball away O’Callaghan away on the left forwards for Waters to chase Orwell can come to the edge of her area an collect.
Harlow’s Chloe Bassett looking to get the ball away chased by Wymondham’s Mollie O’Callaghan
Codman playing the ball on for Knights in the middle plays it forwards with O’Callaghan forwards on her left cuts back inside, 25 yards out closed down Gamble and King combining. O’Callaghan and Jones with a crunching 50/50 in the middle both hurts but quick to acknowledge the ball was there to be won. Harlow over half way the ball played long to the left side a cross whipping on at pace Chelsea Clarke central sticking a foot out to intercept almost scores an own goal inside the six yard box the ball flashes up to strike the cross bar bouncing down grabbed by Symonds before anyone can follow up from Harlow to score.
Abbey Dell bringing the ball on for Harlow Town Ladies
Wymondham have Etheridge on the ball attacking right a strong run her cross in cleared play brought back for an earlier foul on the winger. Players forwards taken short into the top of the area with O’Callaghan coming for the ball the shot in hesitates shifting it before pulling the trigger a deflection sending it wide for the corner kick. King up well at the near post to defend for Harlow. A flowing attack from Wymondham Knights doing well once again bringing the ball on support from Craddock out to Etheridge on the right plays it back to Russell she swings in the cross long, King up at the far post to win the header for Harlow clearing the threat.
Harlow’s Evie Love ends up riding Wymondham defender Lauren Kett as she slides in to tackle
Kett stepping out of defence sliding in strongly to win a number of tackles for Wymondham is down with an injury, a pause in play Harlow make the change bring Chambers back on for Love on the left. Play resumes Waters doing well to win a corner on the right the ball in cleared firmly by the head of King at the near post. King with the interception and touch back fr her keeper to clear as Knights almost sends the running Waters and Etheridge in on goal for Wymondham. Harlow bring Jones off sending Love back on.
Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe
Wymondham pressure O’Callaghan closing in on the area closed down, Waters almost in Harlow look to play out from the ball O’Callaghan giving chase goes down in agony play stopped straight away the Wymondham midfield in clear distress has hurt her knee, a long pause in play on the field treatment hobbles off can’t continue Wymondham to end the game with 10 with no more substitutes over 15 minutes left to play. Gamble carries the ball on for Harlow up to Steele in attack, Clarke closing her down to tackle for Wymondham the hosts break quickly the ball put through the middle King intercepting.
Wymondham actually upping their intensity despite being a player down, renewed energy to close down the ball Waters keeping King busy the clash of the captains King lunging in to win the ball this time. Chambers finding space on the right incensed at being flagged offside with Harlow playing the ball crossfield from the left. Edmeades forwards on the left sends a cross in attacked near post by Steele up to head the ball plays it over the bar. Love and Shephard combined on the right the former with the back heels Shephard’s cross in bringing a corner kick. Swung into the box central blasted goalwards saved on the line by a combination of defender and goalkeeper.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Mia Etheridge
Etheridge storming on down the right side for Wymondham in attack the angle going against her as she unleashes a powerful shot the ball rising smashing against the crossbar falling into the box players in on the follow so too King putting her body in the way to block. The tie on a knife edge could go either way Harlow bring Edmeades off late on sending Jones back into the fray. King with a last ditch tackle to deny Waters inside the box the clock running down Harlow get forwards the ball fed along the ground into Shephard’s feet outside the box left turns and shoots the ball flying over the crossbar. Russell defending late on as Love tries to lift a ball into the box for Steele to run onto. The final whistle blows the cup tie heading into extra-time.
Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-1 Harlow Town Ladies
A really enjoyable game lots of action not much between the sides neither on top, defending well committed and lively in the middle on the cusp of boiling over but both sides want to get on with it. Neither keeper overly tested in the 2nd half clear cut chances at a premium Wymondham doing well at the finish despite their player disadvantage could have snatched a late win. Now another 30 minutes awaits.
Extra-time
Into extra-time Wymondham back up to the full 11 on the field, Danni Clarke able to take up an outfield role comes on to the left wearing Symonds no 18 shirt. Wymondham to get the extra period of play underway 2 15 minute halves for either side to try and find a winning goal or the tie heads to penalties. Good to see O’Callaghan up on her feet her knee iced up. Gamble on the ball for Harlow coming forwards long up to Chambers making a run right side the ball collected by Symonds. Chambers lively at the start of the half picking the ball up has pace drives on Wymondham closing her down.
A long diagonal ball left to right finds Etheridge stealing through into the box on the right she shot sliced though swerves wide of goal. Steele spinning on the ball as it is played into her feet very nearly has Shephard in on goal but for a raised flag. Wymondham get on down the right win corner kick players forwards the ball long beyond the far post knocked down into the path of Danni Clarke, the goalkeeper turned outfield player with a snap shot the ball running wide of the post. Harlow with a corner up the other in inswinging cleared off the line.
Harlow attacking the ball fed into the box a race between Steele and Kett shoulder to shoulder Steele getting a shot away flashes over the bar. All action both sides going for it Etheridge winning Wymondham a corner.
GOAL! Wymondham get their noses in front late in the first period of extra-time the corner taken long over the player rising well at the far post gathered as players rush out towards the ball a cross in flicked on and met by Waters jumping to get her foot on the ball in the centre of goal a yard out couldn’t miss 2-1.
Russell defending as Harlow fling a cross into the area from the right. Bassett gathering the ball deep for Harlow bringing it on well Chambers on the move right side Bassett looks to pick her out but to Chambers dismay she’s flagged offside once again.
Half-time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies
Advantage Wymondham with 15 minutes to play leading 2-1 as Harlow get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. A few spots of rain in the air the visitors on the attack Dell put through right into the box the angle tight drives in a shot the ball held well by Symonds in goal. Harlow pressing at the start of the half looking to put Wymondham on the back foot. Kett stepping out well from the back to win the ball.
Waters sensing space may open up behind moving across the back line getting free momentarily on the left side after the ball, King doing well to get back on her make the challenge. Chelsea Clarke stopping Chambers as she drives towards the box. A Harlow free-kick won 22 yards from goal on the left played into the box cleared Harlow have it back driven into the box deflected wide for a corner. Symonds coping well to get something on the ball to get it away inside a congested six yard box.
Less than 5 minutes left Wymondham attempting to keep possession run the ball into the corners frustrate Harlow. Bassett brings the ball out from the back on for Love, but too much on the ball. Waters across to charge down King as she attempts to launch the ball up field. Time almost up Kett winning another tackle Harlow can’t get a clear chance on goal late on no way through. The final whistle blows and Wymondham are through to the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup beating Harlow 2-1 in extra-time.
Full time extra-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-1 Harlow Town Ladies
Another close contest between the two sides both short on numbers on the day a committed and entertaining cup tie. Early goals the game played at a fast pace several strong challenges and tempers frayed at times but never boiling over. A few bruises to show for the cause the following day I think. Wymondham holding on well with 10 getting back up to 11 for extra-time getting their noses in front. Harlow frustrated a lack of options from the bench not helping out of cup competitions in successive weeks, the focus now on the league and in a strong position to push for the title.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders it has to be said and narrowing it down to one wasn’t easy. Starting wit the stand out performers for Harlow, an excellent game at the back for Kaydee King strong and had her hands full with Hannah Waters. In the middle of the park great energy shown by Abbey Dell covered alot of ground and her energy set the tone for the game. For Wymondham was impressed by Katie Knights in the middle several great runs and setting up attacks, Waters leading the line well. The defence doing well as a unit Freya Symonds didn’t look out of place in goal 2nd half. The award though goes to Lauren Kett won numerous challenges in the centre of defence and set up the opening goal.
An enjoyable first trip to Ketts Park, an entertaining game just what was needed after two weeks without a game. Played at a fast pace two committed teams could have gone either way Wymondham finding the winner in extra-time. My thanks to both teams for today’s starting line-ups.
The County Cup action continues across both Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this weekend with both competitions at the semi-final stage. Beginning with the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup, Luton Town Ladies had seen off rivals and current holders Bedford Ladies in the quarters finals were away to AFC Dunstable Women in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday. Both playing in the ERWFL, Dunstable’s new look young side struggling for points at the bottom of the table on a steep learning curve doing well to hold Luton to a goalless first half. Luton taking the lead 7 minutes into the 2nd half Ellie Sargeant with an absolute worldie to score her 1st goal for the club. 20 minutes left to play Dunstable fighting back to level the scores Lottie Nicholls with her first Dunstable goal. Luton though coming straight back to retake the lead with top scorer Jess McKay’s 14th goal of the season enough to take Luton into another Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup final.
The BHWGFL was already gaurenteed representation in a County Cup final this season as the other semi-final in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup saw Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies at home to Division Two title challengers Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Scoring plenty of goals Woburn & Wavendon have also proved hard to break down at times this season and both saw them to victory in their semi-final clash. Keeping Houghton Athletic from scoring at one end ht them for 6 at the other end to book their spot in the final. Top scorer Giselle Randall scoring 4 in the game to move her to 17 for the season a brace in both halves. Georgia-Rose Edwards with two goals in the final 5 minutes to finish the scoring.
The Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2pm kick-off further details to be announced.
Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup
Semi-final weekend too in Hertfordshire the Women’s Challenge Cup, and it will be a repeat of last season’s final with Stevenage FC Women and holders Watford U23s winning thier respective games on Sunday.
Stevenage FC Women were at home taking on Watford Ladies Development. the FAWNL South East Division One side enjoying alot of success recently in the County Cup taking the lead through Ashleigh Deacon’s 3rd strike of the season, captain Amy Makewell firing home her 13th goal of the season doubling Stevenage’s advantage midway through the 2nd half to send them into the final itself for the sixth consecutive year.
Amy Makewell with her 13th goal of the season helping to secure Stevenage FC Women a sixth consecutive County Cup Final appearance (photo credit Gary Reed)
Holders Watford U23s were away to ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies in their semi-final at the weekend. Top scorer Samaira Khan coming on in the 38th minute opening the scoring in the 39th rounding the keeper to make it 1-0. Colney Heath with the advantage at half-time chances to extend their lead were restricting Watford’s chances at the other end the visitors though coming back to level with 15 minutes left to play through an unfortunate own goal ricocheting in off the keeper. Watford winning the game with 2 minutes left on the clock a looping ball forwards sent home to see them through to a 2nd successive cup final.
The Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final to be played Sunday 15th March a 2;30pm kick-off at the County Ground Letchworth.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Four games played across the 3 divisions in the BHWGFL this weekend. 2nd placed St Albans Ladies in action were at home to Letchworth Garden City Eagles on Sunday A 2-2 draw with leaders Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies last weekend kept the gap between them to 3 points St Albans with a game in hand playing again this Sunday a positive result taking them top of the table on goal difference. Top scorer Eleanor Lovelock opening the scoring in the first half her 24th goal if the season coming in the 26th minute. Millie Guest with her first goal of the season just past the hour securing a 2-0 win for St Albans to sent them top of the league.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Two games played in Beds & Herts Division Two this Sunday despite what my results posts may have led you to believe. AFC Dunstable Blues going top of the table last weekend were at home again this weekend taking on Garston Ladies Vintage Purples. The damage done in the opening 10 minutes a quick fire double seeing Dunstable into a 2 goal lead, Kerry Mulvihill-Reed on target to score her 4th goal of the season in the 8th minute, Nicola Hollick scoring her 21st of the season 2 minutes later, Garston unable to find a reply, Dunstable with further chances to extend their lead move 5 points clear of 3rd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies.
Keeping pace with Dunstable in 2nd though are Langford Ladies remain a point behind as they won well away from home on Sunday in Division Two against Sherrardswood Ladies. Scoring half as many goals as Dunstable so far this season have by far the tightest defence in the league conceding just 3 goals so far from 8 played, another clean sheet at the weekend. Amber Clark with half of Langford’s goals, netting a hat-trick at the weekend to put her onto 15 for the campaign so far, Sophie Bounds also celebrating a goal along with Harriet Ford on the scoresheet for the first time this season Langford winning 5-0.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One game in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three to report on, Biggleswade United Ladies moving back into 2nd spot with a comfortable home win over Flitwick Eagles Ladies on Sunday. Kayleigh Saunders scoring 5 times to see her closing in on 20 goals for the season. The goals spread around elsewhere with 4 other players on the scoresheet. Zoe Molloy collecting her 10th goal of the season, Tashai Simms putting the ball into the back of the net for her 7th a goal too for Jodie Molloy and a first Biggleswade goal for Vikki Ransom. The final score 9-0.
The County Cup action quarter final action continues across this weeks edition of The Round-Up, with a place up of grabs in both the Essex Women’s County Cup and Trophy competitions this Sunday. A strong line-up in the last 8 of the County Cup competition. Current holder Billericay Town Ladies amongst the title challengers in FAWNL South East Division One away to a side hoping to join them in the league next season Harlow Town Ladies currently top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Early chances for Billericay saves from the goalkeeper to deny the visitors the dead lock broken midway through the first half Billericay with a throw high on the left keeping possession before squaring the ball into the area for Zoe Rushen to control and lay off for Jay Blackie to collect and strike home from 20 yards out. Harlow back on level terms less than 5 minutes later Blackie scoring at the other end the sun an issue at that end of the ground a free-kick played in high by Amy Nash, Blackie up to try and head clear instead looped back over everyone to fall inside the post. Billericay keeping the pressure on pushing on further opportunities retaking the lead in the 36th minute a corner from the right long beyond the far post laid back to Therese Addison free in the box to lash home to make it 2-1. Billericay leading at half-time. Karissa Rodney giving the visitors a 2 goal cushion with 20 minutes left to play following good work by defender Lucy Jones up on the left a high ball played in towards the far post Rodney ghosting in to smash the ball home and send the holders into the last four.
A Basildon derby in the quarter finals on Sunday as AFC Basildon Women’s first team were drawn ‘away’ to their Development side in the quarter finals of the County Cup. A Basildon side gaurenteed to reach the semi-finals a good contest with both goalkeepers called into action to make a number of fine save Amy Dodds awarded player of the match for the Development side the first team coming out on top with Courtney Clarke their star performer the winning score 6-0.
AFC Basildon Women’s Courtney Clarke (photo credit Little James Photography)
Plenty of goals too else where in the quarter finals of the Essex Women’s County Cup. ERWFL Premier Division newcomers Bowers & Pitsea Ladies at home looking to progress as they took on Leigh Ramblers Ladies new to the ERWFL themselves, Bowers & Pitsea not taking their lower league opponents lightly having fallen foul to them in the Women’s FA Cup last season. In the end a 7 goal thriller between the sides including a stoppage time winner. A fantastic start to the game by Bowers & Pitsea taking the lead in the 10th minute Sade Walters laying the ball back for Donna Fletcher to smash in from 20 yards. The hosts applying plenty of pressure looking good going forwards further chances coming it was against the run of play though that Leigh Ramblers came back to level the scores. Bowers & Pitsea undeterred kept up their attacks it was the visitors though who would take the lead late in the first half, a mix-up at the back leading to the ball been stolen and lobbed over the keeper to make it 2-1. Bowers & Pitsea seeing an immediate reply chalked off for offside.
Leigh Ramblers 2-1 up at the break, Bowers & Pitsea out of the blocks quickly to equalise Sade Walters heading home from a Megan Harley cross in the 49th minute. An exciting cup tie both teams giving it their all the game moving onto the final 15 minutes and the visitors were in front again latching onto a loose pass in midfield to take the ball on slide into the bottom corner Leigh Ramblers 3-2 ahead. Bowers & Pitsea coming back for a 2nd time in the match 5 minutes later Courtney Fraser setting up Georgia Fraser in space to slot the ball home 3-3 the game on a knife edge into stoppage time 92 minutes on the clock Ronni Harrison with the pass into Georgia Fraser her short cannoning down off the crossbar up into the roof of the net to see Bowers & Pitsea with it 4-3.
Plenty of goals in both Collier Row Tigers top of the ECWFL Premier Division and Hutton Ladies from the ERWFL Division One South. Hutton unbeaten in the league reaching the last 4 of the County Cup last season aiming to repeat the feat scoring 4 goals in the tie. However that wasn’t enough as Collier Row Tigers saw the ECWFL represented in the semi-finals of the County Cup as they put 7 goals past their opponents to win the game. No goals for top scorer Laura Bunton last weekend she was saving them for this Sunday scoring a hat-trick putting her on 36 for the season to date. Emma Harrison netting a brace moves into double figures with a goal each for Ammarah Ali and Helen Moriera.
The draw made live on BBC Essex radio just a short while ago the semi-final line up as follows ties to be played Sunday 16th February:-
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Collier Row Tigers
Billericay Town Ladies v AFC Basildon Women
Essex Women’s Trophy
The quarter finals too for the Essex Women’s Trophy this weekend. Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies already through to the last four of the competition after being awarded the away win agianst Holland Ladies. One tie falling foul to the weather Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves home game with Hutton Ladies Reserves. That left two games to be played.
Lawford Ladies reaching the final of the competition last season haven’t had the best of season’s so far in the league the ERWFL side facing Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in last seasons final were at home to their new Development side in the quarter finals this time around. A slow start from the visitors Lawford taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. Bowers & Pitsea coming back to level the scores Sophie Thomas finding the top corner. Lawford retaking the lead going onto to add a further too leading 4-1, Ema Neilson-Gee with her first goal for the club getting it back to 4-2. Lawford scoring from a corner to win the game 5-2 at the final whistle. Captain Dais Canny with a brace, two also for Nicola Gooch her first of the season and a first of the season too for Gemma Issacs.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves completing in the FAWNL South East Reserves League were away to Essex Women’s Division One side Aveley Ladies in this Sunday’s Trophy quarter final. The visitors racking up the goals as they powered their way into the last four of the competition. Rosie Richards scoring a hat-trick there was a brace each for Freya Fuller and Leigha Bradding-Butler. With Mya Turner, Frankie Hendricks and Jay Johnson all celebrating a goal each in a 10-0 win.
The semi-final draw for the Essex Women’s Trophy already made tie games to be played on Sun 16th February are as follows:-
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves v Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies
Lawford Ladies v Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves or Hutton Ladies Reserves
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Silver End United Ladies finally back in action since way back in mid-November, their first game of 2020 coming this Sunday away to Rayleigh Town Ladies in the Essex Women’s Premier Division losing ground to leaders Collier Row Tigers in that time remain well placed in 2nd spot losing just once this season. Rayleigh Town coming into the game off back to back wins. The long lay off not affecting Silver End despite Rayleigh scoring twice trough Isabelle Wallings and Amy Cox. A brace from Rebecca Henderson her first goals of the season plus a goal from Rebecca Hollocks on her first appearance. Sarah Jolly with her 5th of the season and Rosi Webb with her 10th securing a 5-2 victory for Silver End.
Chelmsford City Ladies back up to 3rd in the Premier Division table as they ended a poor run of 3 straight defeats with victory at home to Billericay Town Ladies Development on Sunday. Georgia James scoring in the first half for Chelmsford. Hannah Phillips on target for Billericay 1-1 late in the game moving onto stoppage to Mia Brisley scoring twice in stoppage time to secure the win for Chelmsford 3-1 scoring in the 92nd & 94th minute.
Mia Brisley with a stoppage time brace to win the game for Chelmsford City Ladies (photo credit Ian Kendle)
Essex Women’s Division One
One game in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday, Tigers Ladies ending a run of 3 straight defeats in the league winning the 3 points away from home at the weekend in a close game with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. Goals from Jemma Gardner and Megan Nicholls helping the visitors to secure a 3-2 win that moves Tigers from 2nd bottom up to 6th in what remains a very close battle for places above Tigers with games in hand on both 4th and 5th placed Aveley Ladies and Chigwell Ladies with the gap now 3 points.
Quarter final weekend for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 3 of the 4 games played this Sunday with Sprowston Athletic Ladies game with Norwich City Women postponed. Current holders and back to back winners of the County Cup, Wymondham Town Ladies were at home taking on Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies who themselves have enjoyed success in the County Cup in the recent past. Wymondham starting well Thorpe defending missed opportunities too Wymondham opening the scoring with the half hour fast approaching striker Hannah Waters sending the ball into the back of the net after her initial shot was saved. That lead to a flurry of goals for the hosts the lead doubled quickly with Jennifer Codman setting up Laura Nicholls to make it 2-0 just 3 minutes later, a 3rd goal scored just 2 minutes after that Nicholls on the scoresheet again heading home a Mollie O’Callaghan cross.
Wymondham leading 3-0 at half-time took full control of the tie early in the 2nd starting well scoring 2 quick goals after the restart to go 5-0 up. Waters with her 2nd of the match in the 48th minute latching onto a loose back pass. Combination play between Waters and Nicholls then leading to Freya Symonds sending the ball past the keeper to make it 5-0 in the 49th minute. Symonds scoring her 2nd of the game just 5 minutes later scoring at the far post from a Chelsea Clarke cross. Thorpe scoring a late consolation goal with 10 minutes left to play captain Rebekah Lake onto a ball over the top.
A 7 goal thriller between Tavern Ladies and Wroxham Women as they met in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup on Sunday. Tavern hosting doing well this season in the league following promotion to Division One scoring goals a tough test on Sunday against ERWFL Premier Division side Wroxham. The visitors starting well early chances the pressure bringing the opening goal inside 6 minutes Naomi Cooper with a good run on the ball cutting inside to send a shot under the keeper. Tavern with less of the ball still a threat in attack keeping Wroxham alert at the other end chances missed by both Tavern coming back to level before half an hour was in the clock. Wroxham responding well straight back into the lead Cooper and captain Anna Larkins combining the cross turned in at the far post by Kayleigh Holloway. Cyan Fullbrook with a fantastic diving one handed save to keep Tavern from equalising again the hosts drawing level on the stroke of half-time. 2-2 at the break with Wroxham’s Kirstie Kindred striking the top of the woodwork in stoppage time.
Match action from Tavern Ladies v Wroxham Women (photo credit Wroxham Women)
Into the 2nd half Tavern starting well both sides forcing the keepers into saves the lower league side taking the lead in the 50th minute going 3-2 up. Wroxham on the attack coming back to level themselves in the 70th minute Larkins and Cooper again combining on the flank the cross headed clear of the box falling straight to Chloe Shields to strike on the volley to make it 3-3. Wroxham finishing strong chances to retake the lead a corner in the 80th minute leading to a penalty being given for handball Lauren Bullard stepping up to score and make it 4-3. Wroxham into the draw for the semi-finals.
To be made live on BBC Radio Norfolk on Friday evening also in the hat are Sprowston Ladies the Division One side winning at home to Division Two opposition Hockering Ladies. A 2nd heavy defeat for the visitors in cup competitions in successive weeks Tavern knocking them out of the League Cup, Sprowston racking up the goals this Sunday to win the game 15-0.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Two matches beating the weather in Norfolk Women’s Division One featuring the sides bottom two. Positive results for both on Sunday. Bottom side Freethorpe Ladies were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies. Has been tough for both sides following promotion to Division One this season and both knew it would be. Thetford’s recent form picking up earning some useful points a win against Taverham last weekend taking them out of the bottom two. Freethorpe working hard every game bottom haven’t got a point on the board after 10 played. That changed at the weekend as Freethorpe were celebrating earning their first point of the season. Olivia Sutton with her first goal of the season giving Freethorpe a first half lead. Thetford coming back to level the scores in the 2nd half to see it end 1-1. Rebecca White with the goal.
A tough season too for Taverham United Ladies following promotion as Division Two champions in their debut season dropping into the bottom two after being beaten 2-1 by Thetford last weekend. Were at home this Sunday taking on 5th placed Fakenham Town Ladies. Injury and illness affecting the visitors Taverham doing well to get their 3rd league win of the season go back above Thetford. Rebecca Sutton on target with her 8th goal of the season with Hannah Artis firing home her first of the campaign to see the match won 2-0.
Hannah Artis scoring her first goal of the season for Taverham United Ladies at the weekend.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this weekend. Waveney Ladies moving up to 3rd in the league after grabbing a last minute winners last weekend in a dramatic game away to North Walsham Angles Ladies. Were on the road again this weekend taking on Horsford Women a less dramatic game with neither side able to breach their opponents defend they had to settle for a point each in a 0-0 draw.
That results sees Thorpe United Ladies Reserves climb above Waveney back into 3rd spot in Division Two on goal difference as they won at home to struggling Red Rose Ladies on Sunday. Red Rose short of a full side Thorpe were welcoming back Shanice Sutton returning to the pitch after a long lay off due to a nasty knee injury suffered at the back end of the season before last. Carried on were she left off scoring plenty of goals that season hit the ground running by scoring 4 on her first start back. A first of the season too for Kirstie Andrews. Mia Calver also on the scoresheet with a goal with Chloe Musson-Pipe netting a brace in an 8-0 victory.
The Suffolk Women’s County Cup reaching the quarter final stage this weekend. Ipswich Town Women dominating the competition in recent season’s by far the strongest side in the county, reaching their highest league position topping the FAWNL South East Division One and making history a fortnight ago to reach the 4th Round of the Women’s FA Cup. A daunting test for Suffolk Women’s Division side Brantham Athletic Ladies hosting Ipswich in the last 8 of the County Cup this Sunday. Ipswich resting several players giving a chance for others within the squad, the visitors in front inside the opening 2 minutes Zoe Cossey latching onto a loose ball to make it 1-0. Roxanne Small making it 2-0 just 5 minutes later seeing her initial shot saved putting in on the follow-up. Top scorer Natasha Thomas making it 3-0 inside 10 minutes her shot in off the post. Ellie Rossiter back in the side after injury kept her out earlier in the season on target for Ipswich’s 4th just a minute later. Assistant manager Paige Shorten out in the the middle for Ipswich this Sunday up with the attack volleying in to make it 5-0 after Thomas’ overhead kick falls straight to her. Linsey Cooper heading home from a corner to see the visitors 6-0 up with half an hour gone. That the lead at the break.
Ipswich continuing to dominate in the 2nd half Thomas scoring in the 52nd minute to celebrate her 20th goal of the season went on to net a hat-trick on the hour following a mazy run from Cossey. Rossiter with her 2nd of the match scoring under pressure from the top of the area to make it 9. Nicole Pannifer with her first of the season seeing Ipswich into double figures with 15 minutes to play. Cossey with her 2nd of the game a couple of minutes later a 4th goal for Thomas soon after turning the ball into the net after the keeper saved Cossey’s shot. Chloe Dunn from close range scoring late on with Rossiter running on in the 90th minute setting up captain Amanda Crump to make the final score 14-0.
Needham Market Women one of the emerging women’s football sides in Suffolk hoping to push on and match the success of Ipswich new to the game last season had a fabulous debut campaign with a 2nd placed finish in the league along with final appearances in both the League and County Cups. Will be aiming to reach the County Cup final once again this season now promoted to the ERWFL were at home to Norfolk Division Two title hopefuls Beccles Town Ladies in the quarter finals this weekend. Needham Market making a fantastic start taking the lead inside the opening 3 minutes a superb strike from Francesca Rainbird outside the box bringing the ball down brilliantly and catching it sweetly on the volley yo make it 1-0. Set the tone as Needham Market blew away their opponents in the opening minutes. Captain Nicola Henderson celebrating her birthday with a goal firing home a 25 yard free kick in the 7th minute. Lois Balfour in to lob the keeper just 4 minutes later. The whirlwind start continuing as Lina Nagib played in Jodie Sharp to score their 4th on 15 minutes. Beccles hit for 4 in the first 15 minutes pulling a goal back Francesca Catchpole robbing the keeper, but just a minute later Needham Market restored their 4 goal lead Balfour’s 2nd of the game in off the post. Rainbird seeing the hosts into a 6-1 lead at the break with her 2nd of the game following good build-up play.
(photo credit Ben Pooley)
Into the 2nd half Needham Market continuing where they left off creating plenty of chances in attack pushing players forwards. Beccles managing to hold off the onslaught with the game closing in on the final 15 minutes a quickfire double from Annie Northwood tapping on from close range then striking on the half volley putting the hosts 8-1 up. Rainbird going on to complete her hat-trick in the final minute 9-1 the final score.
East Bergholt United Ladies are alos into the draw for the last 4 of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup winning at home on Sunday against Suffolk Women’s Division newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies. East Bergholt promoted to the ERWFL this season following back to back league and cup doubles in Suffolk booking their spot in the last 4 courtesy of goals from Cara Savage, Katie Bruce, Stacey Teager and Georgia Lockerbie to see them beat Henley Athletic 4-1.
Brettvale Ladies make up the semi-final line-up for the Suffolk Women’s County Cup representing the Suffolk Women’s Division, making history in the process, enjoying a fantastic 2nd season in women’s football are also into the last 4 of the League Cup aswell as challenging for the league itself. Brettvale were at home to another side flying high in the Suffolk Women’s Division in the quarter finals Needham Market Women Reserves. Brettvale coring 3 without reply making history in the County Cup, will be homing for a home draw in the semi-final draw to be made live on BBC Radio Suffolk on Thursday night’s Sport Social between 8:30 & 9pm.
Suffolk Women’s Division
Three matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and once again it was another huge game at the top of the table this weekend that saw 2nd placed Woodbridge Town Ladies away to 4th placed Bury Town Ladies. Bury going top a fortnight ago beating Brettvale lost to the same opponents last Sunday seeing Brettvale back to the top. Woodbridge’s great form seeing them up to 2nd with successive wins over Needham Market Women Reserves their fantastic run continuing this weekend as they beat Bury Town, Lucy Eagle joining Woodbridge from Leiston St Margarets has been amongst the goals during that run now 4 in a row and 9 from 10 played scoring this Sunday to give her 9 from 8 played. Top scorer Jenna Liverpool setting the league alight scoring twice at the weekend taking her past 40 goals for the season from just 16 games. 3-1 the winning score Bury Town suffering back to back defeats very disappointed with their performance.
Just 1 point from their last 5 games and 4 straight losses in the league Alresford Colne Rangers had found themselves slipping down the Suffolk Women’s Division after making a solid start to the season. Got back to winning ways away to AFC Kesgrave Ladies this Sunday to climb back up to 5th in the league. Kesgrave short on numbers not able to field a full side Alresford took full advantage to win the game 3-0. Jasmine Warner on target to score a brace giving her 6 goals for the season with Kirsty Belfall also on the scoresheet.
7 points now for Leiston St Margarets Ladies as they continue to pull their way out of the battle at the bottom of the Suffolk Women’s Division. At home to another side down at the wrong end of the table were taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Continues to be a frustrating season for Chantry just the two wins so far this season have been unlucky not to take more points. A close game again this weekend a single goal winning the game Grace Pemberton with her 3rd goal of the season securing the 3 points for Leiston St Margarets.
A mixture of league and cup football across Cambridgeshire this weekend. clubs scattering from the higher leagues to take part in their various County Cup competitions, either at the quarter of semi-final stage this weekend. For Cambridgeshire it was the quarter finals of both the Women’s Invitation Cup and Junior Invitation Cup more on those in a bit.
Beginning first with the league action this weekend some disruption due to the weather too there were two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. Netherton United Ladies the big movers as they climb from 10th up to 7th spot winning away from home against St Ives Town Ladies Development at the weekend. Travelled with an injury hit squad several out, players coming in to get a full side out new signing Sasha Haw making her debut Netherton despite the enforced changes starting well Gemma Galloway letting fly from the edge of the area putting Netherton into a 6th minute lead. The visitors doubling their advantage with the game closing in on the half hour Hannah Johnson intercepting the ball setting up Katie Barber to score her 6th goal of the season, St Ives rallied but for a superb save from stand in goalkeeper Lissy Crutchfield and a goal line clearance would have gone in level at the break, Netherton though keeping it at 2-0. St Ives with a strong start to the 2nd half pulling it back to 2-1 on the hour, Netherton with and immediate response Barber again firing her 2nd of the match into the roof of the net. The game one end to the other St Ives applying pressure again getting it back to within a goal 2-3 Netherton getting another quick reply 15 minutes to play Holloway sending the ball in seeing the game won 4-2 extending Netherton’s unbeaten run to 8 in all competitions.
Back to back league wins for Cambridge University Women sees them up a place to 9th in the Premiership table all very tight in the middle of the table are just 3 points behind 5th placed March Town United Ladies. Away to bottom side Riverside Ladies this Sunday running out comfortable winners in the finish Amanda Wainwright taking over as top scorer netting a hat-trick to put her onto 8 for the season. Elsewhere their were first goals of the season for 4 players with a goal each for Lina Cai, Anna O’Leary, Taylor Lynn-Jones and a brace for Lu Liu. Cambridge University winning 8-1. Ines Sopia Lopes with the Riverside goal.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Two league matches took place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this Sunday. A top of the table clash seeing 2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies away to 4th placed Eaton Socon Ladies both newcomers to the league this season enjoying strong debuts. 2 points the gap a fantastic result for Eaton Socon a hat-trick for Emily Whiteman seeing her become top scorer so far along with a brace for Samantha Webster securing a 5-2 win the 3 points lifting Eaton Socon up to 2nd themselves in the Championship with their 9th win of the season. Mildenhall’s scorers Katie Hayes and Nadine Basson with her first goal for the club.
A much welcomed win for Deeping United Ladies at the weekend pushing them back up to 8th in the Championship table bringing and end to a long run of defeats that had undone a promising start to life in the Championship since joining in the summer. Were at home to Haverhill Rovers Development. Hannah Chapman running away with the goals for Deeping adding another 2 to her tally at the weekend enough to secure Deeping United’s first league point since November, her 17th and 18th winning the game 2-1. Jemma Wright scoring for Haverhill Rovers.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Never an easy task finding info on the County Cup competitions in Cambridgeshire but both the Invitation and Junior Invitation Cups were at the quarter final stage this weekend. 8 ties scheduled for the senior competition the current holders Cambridge United WFC not involved this season. The tie between March Town United Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies postponed due to a water logged pitch will try again this coming Sunday. Newmarket Town Women through to the semi-finals with opponents Cambridge Rangers Women forfeiting the tie.
That left two quarter final ties to be played. ERWFL Division One North side Histon Ladies were hosting Leverington Sports Ladies at the weekend. A close tie on paper with not much separating the sides in terms of league placement Leverington Sports 2nd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the sides all square at the break, Leverington in front with 29 minutes played through an unfortunate own goal. Histon coming straight back to level just 3 minutes later captain Sophie Lanham providing the cross for Poppy Kelly to flick in off her head to equalise. 2 goals early in the 2nd half sending Histon into a 3-1 lead Kirsty Geal turning in a squared ball from Sydney Graham in the 53rd minute Alison Wright quickly adding Histon’s 3rd. Rebekah Finch securing Histon’s spot in the last 4 of the competition with a goal in the final 4 minutes to see it end 4-1.
Championship side Park Ladies finding their form in recent games to climb the table were away to Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup. Fulbourn with a potent attack building this season between Ebony Rule and Marie Stubbings both amongst the goals this weekend proving too much for Park to contend with, Rule on target to score 4 in the game taking her to 15 for the season. Stubbings scoring another hat-trick giving her 24 from 13 game so far this season. Krissie Taylor and Eleanor Woodley also celebrating a goal each in a 9-0 win.
The draw for the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup made to be played on Sun 16th February are as follows:-
March Town United Ladies or Cambridge City Ladies v Newmarket Town Women
Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Histon Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
The quarter finals stage too for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup final, Histon Ladies Reserves through to the last 4 awarded the home win over Isleham Sporting Youth Ladies who withdrew from the league early in the season. 3 ties to be played and one of those again falling foul to the weather, Burwell Tigers Ladies home tie against Newmarket Town Ladies Development will go again this Sunday.
Two games played Championship side Cambourne United Women were hosting Cambridge City Ladies new A team, the young side competing in the Premiership both sides have seen periods of form and dips throughout the season. It was Cambridge City who came out on top on Sunday to reach the last 4 of the competition. Two goals for Jess Elliot along with one for Sasha Tristram and a first for the side for Yael Benyamin in just her 2nd appearance securing a 4-0 win.
Cambridge City Ladies A through to the last 4 of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup (photo credit Cambridge City Ladies)
Also reaching the last four of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup are Swavesey Spartan Ladies. Despite struggling for points in the Championship the bottom side having already reached the quarter finals of the League Cup came out on top to clinch a narrow 2-1 win away to fellow Championship side Isleham United Ladies on Sunday. Meadow Wooldridge with her 4th goal of the season and Alexandra Herbert with her 3rd winning the game 2-1 to Swavesey. Laura Todd on the scoresheet for Isleham.
The semi-final draw for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation cup as follows ties to be played Sunday 9th February:-
Cambridge City Ladies A v Burwell Tigers Ladies or Newmarket Town Ladies Development
The battle for the title in Suffolk growing more intense last weekend as we saw a 4 way tie at the top of the table a quartet of sides all on 30 points, Bury Town Ladies beating leaders Brettvale Ladies to move top on goal difference. All change at the top again this weekend Brettvale bouncing straight back from last weeks 5-0 loss in reverse fixture played this weekend to win the 3 points and return to the top of the league. The pair plying another competitive game Tarnya McKew netting a brace for Brettvale joins Abbie Fisher as top scorer both on 14. A goal too for Gemma Burnett her first for the club in just her 2nd appearance. Brettvale winning 3-1.
Also the reverse fixture for the other pair firmly locked into the title race as Woodbridge Town Ladies looking to continue thier excellent form which has seen them win 8 of their last 9 league matches. A good result last weekend as they ended Needham Market Women Reserves 100% record to join them on 30 points at the top of the table. A 3-0 win to Woodbridge at home last Sunday travelling this weekend to face Needham Market for the 2nd successive week. Isobel Chaplin scoring for Needham Market seeing the hosts holding a 1-0 lead at half-time. Woodbridge dug deep battling well in the 2nd half to come back to level and go on to score twice more to win the game 3-1 and move 2nd in the Suffolk Women’s Division level on points with Brettvale at the top. Another goal for top scorer Jenna Liverpool 39 now for the season. Lucy Eagle prolific since joining Woodbridge on target for her 8th goal in 7 appearances with Stacey Hadley also celebrating a goal.
Needham Market v Woodbridge (photo credit Ben Pooley)
The fixture reversals from the opening Sunday of 2020 continuing Henley Athletic Ladies were on the road this weekend playing Brantham Athletic Ladies. Henley winning last weekends encounter 7-2. Plenty of goals again this weekend. Brantham making a fast start Lucy Dunnett with her 5th goal of the season firing the hosts into a 3rd minute lead. Henley coming straight back to level the scores. Brantham retaking the lead before 10 minutes were on the clock Maddie Hubbard on the scoresheet to make it 2-1. Top scorer Rebecca Prime hitting her 10th goal of the season with 21 minutes gone to see Brantham leading 3-1 at half-time. Shannon Giles firing Brantham into a 4-1 lead 2 minutes into the 2nd half. Henley pulling a goal back inside the final 15 minutes. Hubbard with her 2nd of the match in the 90th minute securing a 5-2 win. Amy Gilson and Emma Long with the Henley goals.
Leiston St Margarets Ladies with a confidence boosting win to start 2020 last weekend at home to Ramsey & Mistley Ladies the 5-0 result just their 2nd win of the campaign the two meeting in the reverse fixture this Sunday. A battling performance from Ramsey & Mistley leading to a much closer game this time around the game ending in a 1-1 draw the points shared the hosts with a chance to win the game towards the end. Becky Page with her first goal for Ramsey & Mistley. Sarah Cooper with the goal for Leiston St Margarets.
Brightlingsea Regent Ladies over haul Alresford Colne Rangers to climb above them into 6th place in the Suffolk Women’s Division as the two sides over the boarder in Essex met at the weekend. Brightlingsea travelling to Alresford who won the reverse fixture back in November 2-1. Their form has dipped since as Brightlingsea’s has picked up a 4th successive win on the league putting them up to their highest position since joining last season. Top scorer Hannah Goldsmith netting a brace has 21 goals from 13 appearances, Lucy Tilbury also getting a goal in a 3-1 win her 14th of the season. Jasmine Warner scoring for Alresford.
Two matches played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division this Sunday. leader Collier Row Tigers extending their lead at the top of the table to 9 points over Silver End United Ladies as they won for the 10th time this season at home to Chelmsford City Ladies. A rare occasion when top scorer Laura Bunton didn’t score for Collier Row Tigers, there are plenty of goals elsewhere within the squad however. Roseanne Shafier also enjoying a prolific season in front of goal on target to score a brace at the weekend giving her 16 for the season. Daisy Cook getting a goal along with a first of the season for Emma Best to secure a 4-1 win. Abigail Woolvin scoring the goal for Chelmsford.
Has been a tough start to life in the Premier Division for Rayleigh Town Ladies a good start with 4 points from their opening 2 matches went of to suffer 6 straight losses to end 2019. 2020 beginning on a positive note with a 4-3 win over Chelmsford last weekend, made it back to back wins this weekend at home to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. A hat-trick for last season’s top scorer Isabelle Wallings last weekend she was on target for a brace on Sunday to move to 13 for the season with Amy Leach scoring on her Rayleigh debut to seal a 3-1 win. Beacon Hill now 7 points adrift at the bottom of the table with just one win so far this season, Jo Smeaton scoring the visitors goal.
Essex Women’s League Cup
This Sunday saw one tie played in this season’s Essex Women’s League Cup. The competition seeing a Preliminary Round being played with 17 sides across both leagues to bring it down to 16 for the 1st Round. Premier Division side Southend United Ladies drawn out of the bag away to Aveley Ladies. The Division One side taking the lead with Brittany Murray scoring to put them 1-0. Southend coming back to level the scores top scorer Ellie Wood on target to make it 1-1 with her 9th goal of the season. A headed goal from Ellie Ashford seeing the visitors leading 2-1. 16-year-old Faye Lawrence making her Southend debut playing well a superb strike seeing her mark the occasion with a goal Southend 3-1 in front dominant in the 2nd half Kate Wiseman scoring to see the Premier Division side safely through the the First Round and a tricky away tie to Division One leaders Corringham Cosmos.
The details of the full 1st Round draw listed below ties scheduled to be played Sunday 9th February:-
Silver End United Ladies v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development
Frontiers Ladies v Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves
Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves v Collier Row Tigers
Corringham Cosmos Women v Southend United Ladies
Hutton Ladies Reserves v Tigers Ladies
Chelmsford City Ladies v Chigwell Ladies
Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies v Runwell Sports Ladies
Rayleigh Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies Development
Essex Women’s Division One
A full programme of fixtures in Essex Women’s Division One at the weekend. Top versus bottom as Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves travelled to play leaders Corringham Cosmos. Just 2 points dropped so far this season Corringham have led from day one. Rachel Fleming opening the scoring for the hosts putting Corringham 1-0 up in the 17th minute a 2nd goal coming courtesy of Rebecca Corcoran 5 minutes before the break. Leading 2-0 at half-time. Top scorer Michelle Sumpter getting in on the goals 2nd half making it 3-0 on the hour would go on to complete a hat-trick to put her on 20 goals for the season. Corcoran adding her 2nd of the game to see the match won 6-0 in the 83rd minute.
Runwell Sports Ladies the nearest challengers 4 point back in 2nd spot. Made it three successive wins on Sunday in Division One clinching the 3 points at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. A goal for Karen Whitmarsh along with an 8th of the campaign for Aaryanna Simonelli enough to secure the win 2-1 the final score. Emma Farrow on target with the goal for Leigh Ramblers.
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development move 3 points clear in 3rd spot in Division One showing good form themselves like Runwell extending their winning run to 3 matches this weekend away to Tigers Ladies whom they beat in the reverse fixture their final game of 2019. Bowers & Pitsea going ahead inside the opening 10 minutes pressure in attack leading to an own goal being scored. Tigers coming back to level midway through the first half before another unfortunate own goal saw Bowers & Pitsea leading 2-1 at half-time. The visitors extending their lead in the 2nd half Kelsey Young with the through ball to see Ronni Harrison net her first goal for the Development side. Katie Lee scoring a brace to see the game won 5-1, Sophie Thomas setting her up for her first, the 2nd a 25 yard screamer.
A good run of results towards the end of 2019 seeing Chigwell Ladies climbing the Division One table, back to back defeats seeing that run stall, well placed to push on into the top 4 got back to winning ways at home to Hutton Ladies Reserves this Sunday. Leah Mills scoring for the 7th time this season their was a goal on her debut too for Joanne Nour Ngabirano.
Thorpe United Ladies winning form in the league shows no sign of fading made out 10 wins from 10 at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One starting 2020 where they left off the old year. A 3-1 away win against nearest rivals Sprowston Ladies opening up a 9 point lead at the top of the table. Were away this Sunday too making another short trip to Sprowston this time taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Thorpe’s captain Rebekah Lake a constant threat to opposition defences scoring plenty of goals this season eased past 30 on Sunday netting another brace to put her on 31 from 11 played. A new name on the scoresheet this weekend too as Thorpe ran out 3-0 winners, Melissa Belsey scoring her first goal for Thorpe against her former club.
Sprowston Ladies themselves bounced back from defeat to Thorpe last weekend moving back up to 2nd in the Division One table over Bungay Town Ladies on goal difference collecting the 3 points away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. The sides drawing 0-0 at the break a brace for Camilla Morgan her first goals for Sprowston in her 5th appearance and a 7th of the season for Ellie Hall securing the win by 3 goals to 1 in the 2nd period. Rebecca Carver scoring the goal for Wymondham.
Long Stratton Women where at home to Fakenham Town Ladies at the weekend. A close game between the newly promoted sides the game settled by a single goal at the finish. Samantha Walker wearing the captains armband for Long Stratton hitting her 9th goal of the season to win her side the 3 points. Long Stratton in 6th closing the gap to 5th placed Fakenham to a point.
Another clash between two of the promoted sides saw Thetford Town Ladies at home taking on Taverham United Ladies, both sides struggling for points in Division One. Thetford 2nd bottom going into the game finding a bit of form towards the end of 2019 to collect their first points with a win and a draw. Taverham one place above them with 2 wins from the 10 matches played so far. A close game between the pair a single goal in it in the finish, Maya Lawlor scoring for Taverham the visitors though were to leave empty handed as Thetford clinched their 2nd win of the season 2-1 to climb above Taverham into 9th position. Melissa Boulton and Dayna Howard with her first Thetford goal winning the points.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
One outstanding tie left to be played in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s League Cup, a tough test for Division Two side as they hosted Division One high flyers Tavern Ladies. The game played at Easton College on 3G. Tavern are scoring plenty of goals this season and soon got the ball rolling strong to lead 6-0 at half-time, matching that scoreline 2nd half to win the tie 12-0 to reach the quarter finals. Will fancy their chances of making a 2nd successive League Cup final appearance having down so as a Division Two side last season. Katie Hart-Copsey closing the gap to joint top scorers Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean on target to score 5 goals in the game taking her to 11 for the season. A brace for Griffith puts her on 13 along with Kean getting a goal. A goal each too for Sophie Fuller & Meganne Smith with Kelly Gray and Natalie Wright both scoring their first goals for Tavern.
The quarter finals of the League Cup to be played Sun 26th January the draw as follows:-
Sprowston Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
Waveney Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves v Long Stratton Women
Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Three games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this weekend. Stalham Town Ladies maintaining their 7 point lead at the top of the table winning their 8th game of the season at home to Horsford Women on Sunday. A goal in each half for top scorer Amber Mayhew securing the 3 points. Mayhew moving onto 16 goals for the season.
Beccles Town Ladies in hot pursuit and they were relentless in front of goal on Sunday as they rattled 15 goals past bottom side Bulldogs Ladies matching Stalham’s eye watering scoreline registered back at the start of December. The bare 11 available for Bulldogs always going to be a hard ask against Beccles young guns confidence high within the squad. Francesca Catchpole out for a lengthy spell suffering a nasty injury making up for lost time firing 5 more goals into the back of the net taking her tally to 9 goals from 3 appearances. Lola Barbour-King currently Beccles top scoring a hat-trick moves to 14 from 7 games. Chloe Pearce usually keeping goal netting a brace to add to the goal she has already got this season. A brace too for Francesca Heaney her first goals of the season. There was a goal each too for captain Megan Vincent, Elisha Bower and Bethan Owen.
Waveney Ladies are up to 3rd spot in the Division Two table scoring a dramatic late winner to take home all three points away to North Walsham Angels Ladies. Rhiannon Holt scoring her 8th & 9th goals of the season to fire North Walsham into a 2-0 lead. Waveney fought back well Maddie Cook heading home her first goal of the season to pull it back to 2-1 on the hour. 2-1 in remained to the hosts heading into the final 3 minutes of the game a free-kick awarded to Waveney Cook sending it in to equalise late on more drama a nervous end to the game 10 seconds left on the clock Chloe Dobson popping up with the winner for Waveney.
