The top 2 meeting for the 2nd time this season with leaders Silver End United Ladies 3 points clear at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division travelling to play 2nd placed Collier Row Tigers who have a game in hand. A 2-2 draw when the sides met in the reverse fixture back in September. The only points both have dropped so far. Both in great form, Collier Row Tigers getting into a 2-0 lead at half-time went on to score a 3rd without reply 2nd half to win 3-0 and in the process move to the top of the Premier Division table on goal difference. The goals keep coming for Laura Bunton, scoring twice against Silver End takes her to 23 for the season so far. Roseanne Shafier also on target with a goal moves onto 9 for the campaign.
Collier Row Tigers go top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division (photo credit Collier Row Tigers)
Third placed Chelmsford City Ladies at home taking on bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies this Sunday in the Premier Division. Chelmsford making a great start ahead inside the opening 5 minutes, Ciara Meeking with a glancing header from a cross to make it 1-0. Abigail Woollvin brought down in the box to see Chelmsford awarded a penalty. Amelia Murphy stepping up to make it 2-0 from the spot. Gaby Freedman with her first goal of the season scoring from a corner to see Chelmsford leading 3-0 at half-time. Molly Butcher making it 4-0 soon after the restart racing onto a through ball to put the ball into the top corner. Shannon Kelly scoring to make it 5-0 to Chelmsford. Amelia Murphy with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper to put Chelmsford into a 6-0 lead the final score 7-0 with Woollvin smashing the ball into the back of the net.
Match action from Chelmsford City Ladies v Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies (photo credit Ian Kendle)
The two promoted sides met for the 2nd time this season on Sunday with Billericay Town Ladies Development hosting Rayleigh Town Ladies. The reverse fixture early in the season seeing Rayleigh Town win 8-2 and claim their 1st and only win so far in the Premier Division. 4 points from their opening 2 matches have since lost 5 in a row. Billericay having lost their opening 2 league games found their feet in the league despite being docked 3 points. A comfortable win for Billericay on Sunday their 3rd of the season top scorer Sophie Nyiro scoring 4 goals has 12 in total. Rebecca Gallagher also amongst the goals netting a brace has 8 now for the season. Rachel Armstrong-Morris making her 1st appearance of the season also getting on the scoresheet in a 7-1 victory. Isabelle Wallings with the goal for Rayleigh.
The points shared between Frontiers Ladies and Southend United Ladies in the Premier Division both goals coming in the 1st half. Emma Parker scoring her first goal for Frontiers, Harriet Hiskett with her 5th of the season ensuring a point for Southend chances to win the game for both sides Danielle Summer making her debut in goal for Southend the visitors Player of the Match.
Essex Women’s Division One
Corringham Cosmos Women leading Essex Women’s Division One three points clear of 2nd placed Aveley Ladies with a 100% winning start 6 wins from 6 played. Dropped points for the first time this season as they were held to a 2-2 draw away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Rebecca Corcoran scoring early in the game for Corringham Cosmos, Kimberly Lyall with her first goal for the club scoring late in the 1st half. Points dropped for the 1st time this season as they look to bounce back to the Premier Division, Corringham still manage to extend their lead at the top.
That because Aveley Ladies in 2nd lose a 3rd league game in a row after making a brilliant start winning their opening 5 games in Division One. At home this Sunday were beaten by Chigwell Ladies who themselves make it back to back wins after claiming their 1st victory of the season last weekend at home to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Chigwell having just the 10 players available finishing with just 9 making the win more impressive. Amy beadle and Megan Murrell with their first goals for Aveley the hosts losing the match 4-2 as Chigwell’s Leah Mills netted a hat-trick. Moves onto 4 goals for the season level with Jessica MacNab who was also on target for Chigwell’s other goal.
A win on the opening day of the season away to Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves, new side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development hadn’t won since losing their next five to plummet down the Division One table. At home to Chelmsford City once again this Sunday a battle of the bottom two with the hosts without a point from 5 games played so far this season. Bowers & Pitsea making a blistering start dominating the 1st half to lead 7-0 at the break. Ebony Moore making her 1st start scoring a brace. Two goals too for Ellie Jones. Lily Wilding also on the scoresheet with a goal along with first Bowers & Pitsea goals for Sophie Thomas and Jessica Stafford. Chelmsford City with a much improved 2nd half performance battling to keep Bowers & Pitsea from adding to their tally despite having a player sent off.
Brettvale Ladies move 6 points clear at the top of the Suffolk Women’s Division taking advantage of 2nd placed Needham Market Women Reserves no being in action. Keeping their 100% winning start going now up to 9 wins as they secured the 3 points at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. The visitors without a point so far this season making Brettvale work for the win with a well organised and spirited display, Brettvale not at their best coming away with a 3-0 victory to keep their run going. Sheryl Nokes scoring her first goal of the season for Brettvale with Rachel White also on target for a goal along with Abbie Fisher finding the back of the net for her 7th goal of the campaign.
Bunching up behind the leaders, a chance for Alresford Colne Rangers to move clear of Needham Market Women Reserves in 2nd spot as they hosted new side Holland Ladies. Both sides in great form 5 straight league wins for Alresford they were brought down to earth with a bump on Sunday as Holland Ladies racked up their 5th straight league win scoring double figures in the process, beating Alresford 11-1. Charlotte Warren netting a hat-trick to move her onto 7 for the season challenging top scorers Lauren Bourne who claimed a brace to move onto 8 goals and Jasmine Cox now on 9 after too celebrating a brace. Lauren Lucas the 3rd Holland player to bag a brace in the match moving onto 5 for the season their were goals too for Elise Purser and Alisha Blake. Georgia Egner with the goal for Alresford. Holland up to 5th in the Suffolk Women’s Division still have a games in hand on the leading sides.
Bury Town Women 4th in the Suffolk Women’s Division table closing the gap to the 2nd and 3rd placed sides to just 3 points after a 4-0 win away to Henley Athletic Ladies on Sunday, just 1 defeat in 7 played so far in the league the 3 points won on Sunday thanks to goals from Julie Brind who has 16 for the season. A goal for Kristen Hutchings taking her into double figures for the campaign. along with first Bury Town goals for Sophie Hemming and Hayley Turner.
Woodbridge Town Ladies climbing up to 6th in the Suffolk Women’s Division table winning for the 5th time this season away to Leiston St Margarets Ladies on Sunday. Back to back wins on the road Woodbridge securing a 3-1 victory. Samantha Butcher with her first goal of the season. With top scorer Jenna Liverpool moving onto 13 goals for the season scoring a brace.
Brantham Athletic Ladies the latest side to rack up a high scoreline against the depleted ranks of University of Suffolk Women, the visitors bottom of the table short on numbers battling on coming up against a Brantham side finding its form in recent weeks. leading 7-0 at half-time added a further 10 in the 2nd period to win 17-0. Rebecca Prime netting a double hat-trick. There were braces for Lucy Dunnett, Merlin Watson and Lucy Elmes. With a further 5 players getting a goal each, a first for Carra Marie Seeley with Maddie Hubbard, Jessica Ryan, Shannon Giles and Charlotte Archer all scoring.
The points shared in the final game to bring you this week in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Brightlingsea Regent Ladies travelling to play AFC Kesgrave Ladies. The visitors with the bare 11 available. Hannah Goldsmith scoring her 12th goal of the season to make it 1-1 with Abigail Eley netting her 5th goal of the season for Kesgrave.
Remains highly competitive at the top of Norfolk Division One with 3 teams beginning the weekend at the top still with 100% winning starts, Bungay Town Ladies winning 6 from 6 at the start of the season 3 points ahead of both Thorpe United Ladies and newly promoted Tavern Ladies who had 5 win from 5 so far. Two of the three meeting for the first time this season as Thorpe United Ladies played host to Bungay Town Ladies. Women’s Football East along to see the action unfold. Both sides recruiting well over the summer.
Light rain before kick-off an overcast sky it was Thorpe who started the brighter getting hold of the ball in the middle and taking the game to Bungay using the width of the pitch forcing the defence back. Bungay’s defence on the back foot but coping well on the whole Thorpe creating openings whilst preventing Bungay from attacking up the other end. For all their 1st half dominance Thorpe didn’t take the lead until late in the half a driving run into the box from wide from captain Rebekah Lake seeing her cross the ball into substitute Millie Cursons inside the six yard box she scored from close range the ball squirming through as goalkeeper Joanne Pipe attempted to save.
Thorpe defender Tash Levesley challenging for the ball with Bungay’s Porsha Renwick
Thorpe 1-0 up at the break starting the 2nd half in similar fashion, without finding an early 2nd goal. Bungay frustrated getting more joy now players forwards growing in confidence as Thorpe began to retreat a little the game opening up. Bungay looking for a reply risked being hit on the counter, had Pipe to thank for keeping it down to 1-0 pulling off a couple of fantastic saves, Cara Anderson up the other end doing well too as Bungay tried their luck from distance. Bungay couldn’t find that all important equalising goal as Thorpe held out for the win to keep their 100% and join Bungay on 18 points who lose for the 1st time this season. The full match report can be found further down the page.
For all their effort Thorpe ironically fall a place in the league down to 3rd in Division One as the other 100% winning side take over at the top of the table. Tavern Ladies also on 18 points now making it 6 wins from 6 with a double figure win at home to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies. Both promoted to the league this season Tavern scoring plenty of goals whilst keeping it tight at the back. Lucy Kean leading the goal scoring charts scoring 4 at the weekend to move into double figures for the season. 4 goals too for Atlanta Griffith who moves onto 9 goals for the campaign. Katie Hart-Copsey also amongst the goals for Tavern last season’s top scorers doubling her tally for this campaign netting a hat-trick. Tavern beating a spirited Freethorpe 11-0.
Sprowston Ladies remain well placed in 4th place to capitalise on any slip ups from the top 3 just 3 points behind on 15 points winning for the 5th time this season coming out on top in the 2nd Sprowston derby of the season. At home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies this Sunday. A 6-1 away win in the reverse fixture 3 weeks ago. Top scorer Victoria Leyer netting 4 goals in that game was on target for 2 this time around to move onto 20 goals for the season. Leading 2-0 at half-time Sprowston went on to add a 3rd goal in the 2nd half to win the match 3-0 captain Calista Tink also on target with a goal.
5th placed Long Stratton Women were away to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend both sides ending the game with a player send off a straight red for both Taverham’s Hannah Artis and Long Stratton’s Samantha Walker. Long Stratton securing the 3 points to move into double figures following promotion from Division Two last season. Charlie Head scoring a brace with Katie Ransome finding the back of the net for her first goal for the club. Long Stratton winning 3-1, Rebecca Sutton with the strike for Taverham.
Two more newly promoted sides meeting in Division One at the weekend saw Fakenham Town Ladies on the road to take on Thetford Town Ladies. A tough start for Thetford losing their opening five games. Signs they were improving however and earned their first point of the season against Fakenham who weren’t at their best. Clemence Achour with her first Fakenham goal for the club. Thetford Town drawing the game 1-1 getting their first point on the board thanks to a first goal of the season for Rebecca White.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The battle for the title in Norfolk Women’s Division Two now beginning to heat up with the chasing sides all closing the gap on early leaders Stalham Town Ladies who lost for the 1st time in the league this Sunday. With so many new sides entering the league it was always going to take some time to settle down see which sides would emerge as potential challengers Stalham Town Ladies setting the early pace undefeated in 5 played away this Sunday playing Beccles Town Ladies in 3rd spot. Beccles with a strong performance to win the 3 points and move up to 2nd just a point behind Stalham. Lola Barber-King scoring plenty of goals for Beccles early in netting a brace to put her on 9 for the season. Two more players joining her with two goals each on Sunday with Lucy Robbens and Ellie Hills on target for a brace. Bethan Owen also getting her name on the scoresheet with her first goal of the season Beccles winning the match 7-2. Amber Mayhew with her 8th goal of the season and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor with the goals for Stalham Town.
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves side up there at the top of Division Two pressing for top spot in the table were away to fellow newcomers, Waveney Ladies at the weekend. Thorpe undefeated in thier last 5 games with 4 wins and a draw in both league and cup Waveney making a late start to the league winning their opening 2 fixtures suffering defeat last time out to leaders Stalham Town bounced back well to beat Thorpe United 2-0 to win their 3rd game of the season to move onto 9 points 4 behind the leaders with games in hand on all the sides above them.
An end to end thriller between Hockering Ladies and Mulbarton Belles at the weekend both sides amongst those to potentially mount a title challenge, Hockering recruiting well bringing in players to strengthen their squad, Mulbarton’s still very new and continuing to build. 7 goals between the sides it was Mulbarton who would emerge the winners taking it 4-3 to win the 3 points and make it 3 successive wins to climb up to 3rd in the Division Two table level on points with 2nd placed Beccles a point behind leaders Stalham Town. Gemma Hamilton-Rout with her first 2 goals for the club scoring on debut. A goal too on her debut for Iris Morton-Smith along with one for Harriet Husbands. Cerys Nicholas scoring a brace has 5 goals now for Hockering, with Shelley Woods scoring her 7th since joining the club.
Tight at the top of the Division Two table there was also an important match at the other end with the bottom two meeting on Sunday, Bulldogs Ladies hosting newcomers Red Rose Ladies both with a tough start to the season losing their opening 4 games respectfully. Without a point something had to give at the weekend. Bulldogs scoring 3 goals with Rachel Hardy getting a hat-trick. Red Rose having scored a goal in each of their previous 4 league matches more than doubling their tally for the season up the other end as they hit 7 into the Bulldogs net to win the game 7-3 to claim their 1st 3 points of the season.
A highly competitive ERWFL Premier Division this season with the sides all the way down to 8th in a good position to challenge what is an ever changing picture at the top of the table, whether one side can get a grip on top spot and go on to dominate remains to be seen right now it’s wide open. The lead changing once again. Wroxham Women going top last weekend at home this Sunday facing Bedford Ladies. Always a competitive tussle between the sides (and yes I am referring to when Wroxham were Acle United Women) no less so in their new colours chances for both in the first half Wroxham seeing a shot in added time bounce down off the bar and over the line before being plucked back by the keeper but despite their protests the sides heading in goalless. Bedford awarded a penalty on the hour to take the lead added a 2nd 5 minutes later. Wroxham making a couple of good comebacks already this season fighting back once again Kirstie Kindred firing home to bring it back to 2-1 with 15 minutes left top scorer Grace Birchall getting the equalling goal, clear cut chances for both sides to win the game missed, the points shared.
That result sees previous leaders Harlow Town Ladies return to the top of the table, although they themselves very nearly let it slip at home at the weekend, the Essex side hosting Wymondham Town Ladies. Harlow getting into an early lead Wymondham failing to clear from a corner the ball put over the line. Proved to be the difference between the sides. A 1-0 lead for Harlow at half-time when 2-0 early in the 2nd half capitalising on a mix-up at the back to make it 2-0. Wymondham with a quick response getting it back to 2-1 in the 48th minute Jac Ball shooting across the keeper to get her 1st goal for the club. Harlow straight back with a 3rd goal 3-1 up made it 4-1 with less than 15 to play, Becky Shephard with a brace, along with goals for Frances Gamble and Chloe Bassett. Wymondham with a late fight back scoring twice in the closing minutes to get it back to 4-3 setting up a tense finish, Mia Etheridge crossing for Katie Knights to score and Sarah Payne flicking on a goal kick to put Laura Nicholls in to score her first of the season (hard to believe it’s taken until November to say that although she has only featured in 4 games so far this season.) Harlow with the 3 points maintaining their unbeaten start to the season top on goal difference.
Colney Heath Ladies amongst the early season front runners too back up to 3rd on the ERWFL Premier Division table winning away to AFC Dunstable Women on Sunday. A 15-1 for Colney Heat in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. Ex-Dunstable player Samaira Khan with a hat-trick that day repeated the feat this time around, to put her on 14 goals for the season, scoring twice in the first half after Lucy Hancock had opened the scoring in the 12th minute for the visitors. Colney Heath 3-0 up at half-time Hancock on target for her 2nd of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Rianne Townsend-Brown making it 5-0 on the hour. Hannah Ring making her first start for Dunstable with a goal to prevent a clean sheet for Colney Heath before Khan added her 3rd late on to see the game won 6-1.
Royston Town Women climb to 4th in the Premier Division table, 3 points behind leaders Harlow with games in hand on Wroxham and Colney Heath. The Hertfordshire side away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. The game looked to heading for a goalless opening 45 minutes. Royston with a corner late on the ball hooked in by Emma Slater. Royston adding to their lead early in the 2nd half Joanne Rutherford onto a through ball to make it 2-0 a 3rd goal coming quickly after Danielle Carty with a great strike on 58 minutes to make it 3-0. A devastating spell from Royston going 4-0 up 2 minutes later Rutherford from a free-kick scoring her 2nd of the match. Haringey getting a quick reply to bring it back to 4-1 but that would be as good as it got as Royston went on to win the 3 points comfortably.
The game between newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies and Bowers & Pitsea Ladies falling foul to the weather.
ERWFL Division One North
The weather playing it’s part in both ERWFL Division One North & South this Sunday to. King’s Lynn Town Ladies home game against Histon postponed whilst in the South, Millwall Lionesses match away to leader Hutton Ladies also suffered.
Two games played in Division One North on Sunday, league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development away to Newmarket Town Women. A 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture just 3 weeks ago, Newmarket keen to close the gap on the leading side after making a slow start. It was Cambridge who would make a fast start this Sunday taking the lead just 3 minutes into the game Bella Simmons on target for her 11th goal of the season Newmarket coming back to level the scores inside 20 minutes with Annabel Cuthbert getting her 12th goal of the season. All square at the break Cambridge retaking the lead with 10 minutes gone in the 2nd half after not capitalising on early chances, Ellie Cullum rifling the ball into the roof of the net from 25 yards out. Her 5th of the season proving to be the winning goal.
A Suffolk derby saw newcomers Needham Market Women at home playing AFC Sudbury Ladies. Sudbury starting the game well creating opportunities, Needham Market still looking for their first league win at this level growing into the game with chances as the 1st half wore on, the visitors taking the lead from a free-kick late in stoppage time the ball finding it’s way in. 1-0 Needham Market goalkeeper Amber Leeks injured unable to continue, outfield player Milly Carter donning the gloves. Needham Market starting the 2nd half well getting a goal back within 3 minutes of the restart Jodie Sharp crossing for Amber Sparkes to tap home. Needham getting forwards well further opportunities created taking the lead just past the hour Sparkes with a good run jinking into the box opening up her body to shoot high into the net. Carter with a fine save to tip the ball over at the other end saw her defence concede a penalty moments later a chance for Sudbury to level from the spot a superb top draw save from the substitute keeper going left getting a firm hand on the ball to turn it out. The win secured in the final 10 minutes Lois Balfour deadly for the Reserves this season striking from distance her shot in off the post.
ERWFL Division One South
Two games in Division One South on Sunday and with the leading pair not playing it was a chance for Stevenage FC Women Development to close the gap as they travelled to play Wodson Park Ladies who were still looking for their first points of the season. Stevenage unbeaten in the league winning the game 4-0 to join 2nd placed Millwall on 10 points, the goal scored by Hannah Marshall, Sofia Carpenter, Katherine Taylor and Emily Schofield.
Stevenage FC Women Development pictured before thier game with Wodson park on Sunday (photo credit Stevenage FC Women)
Also without a point on the board in Division One South were Lawford Ladies a difficult start to the season short on numbers so are hosting newcomers Leigh Ramblers Ladies. A full side available this weekend it was a much needed point earned as the sides finished 1-1 at the final whistle. daisy Canny with her 5th goal of the season on target for Lawford.
The Women’s FA Cup reaches the 1st Round Proper, 12 ties drawn with the remaining regional and FAWNL Division One sides vying for a place in the next round where the FAWNL Northern & Southern Premier Division side enter the competition. 5 of those ties featuring sides playing in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East, reduced to 3 in the finish with the games between Woodlands FC Ladies & Billericay Town Ladies and Cheltenham Town Ladies & Leyton Orient WFC falling foul to the weather, both games scheduled to take place this coming Sunday.
Onto the ties played, a trip to the West Midlands for ERWFL Premier Division side, Luton Town Ladies as they looked to continue thier fine run in the competition away to FAWNL Midlands Division One side, Wolverhampton Wanderers Women. A tough test for Luton amongst the title challengers in a competitive league, Wolves leading the Midlands Division One table by five points losing just once this season back in early September. Shannie Jennings firing Wolves into an early lead scoring in the 7th minute with a strike from outside the box. Wolves strong pressing for a 2nd goal doubling their lead on 22 minutes Lowri Walker making it 2-0. Rebecca Ferris keeping Wolves from adding a 3rd goal before half-time the FAWNL side 2-0 up at the break. Luton coming out fighting at the start of the 2nd half looking for an early reply it was Wolves however who would go on to take a 3-0 on the hour Lyndsey Glover with the goal. Into the final 20 minutes Wolves taking a 4-0 lead Sophie Bamford firing home. Luton pulling a goal back quickly Jess McKay heading in after Zara Carroll’s free-kick strikes the crossbar. 4-1 the final score Wolves advancing Luton’s fine run coming to an end in this season Women’s FA Cup.
Two all FAWNL South East Division One ties in the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup, Ipswich Town Women leading the table at home taking on Essex side AFC Basildon Women. The hosts with early chances taking the lead in the 16th minute a free-kick outside the area put away beautifully by Paige Peake. Half an hour gone and Ipswich doubled their lead Sophie Peskett in to steal the ball at the back and race on through into the area to score. Natasha Thomas making it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time meeting a cross inside the six yard box. Further chances to extend the lead for the Suffolk side in the 2nd period a 4th goal eventually coming with 7 minutes left a corner put in from the right a knock on controlled by Abbie Lafayette beyond the far post and struck low into the back of the net. Zoe Cossey rifling home from the edge of the box with 2 minutes left to see Ipswich advance to the 2nd Round Proper with a 5-0 victory.
Sophie Peskett in on goal to make it 2-0 to Ipswich (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Actonians Ladies hosting AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the 1st Round Proper. A full blooded match between the pair, Actonians Ladies the only side to beat Wimbledon so far this season beating the 3rd placed side 2-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca putting Actonians into the lead inside the opening 20 minutes with her 9th goal of the season. Wimbledon with a quick reply to equalise winning a corner on the left the inswinging ball missed by the keeper bundled in by defender Hannah Billingham at the far post. The visitors pressing the referee needing to have a word on occasion, Actonians retaking the lead with 5 minutes left in the 1st half Jessica Byrne through seeing her initial effort blocked by the keeper taking the ball around her to score her first goal of the season. Actonians leading 2-1 at half-time. The 2nd half no less competitive Wimbledon battling looking for a reply, Actonians defending robustly keeping them at bay keeping their lead at celebrating victory at the final whistle reaching the 2nd Round Proper.
The draw for the 2nd Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup drawn live on Talksport radio the ties to be played Sunday 1st December with the winners receiving £1000 those ties involving sides from the Southern Premier & South East Division One listed below:-
Hounslow Women v Cardiff City Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies v Watford Ladies
Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women Portsmouth FC Women v Cheltenham Town Ladies or Leyton Orient WFC
Southampton Women’s FC v Milton Keynes Dons Women
Oxford United Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Chichester City Ladies v Ipswich Town Women
Woodlands FC Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies v Gillingham Ladies
Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier League this Sunday. Moving 3 points clear of Watford Ladies who weren’t in action. 4 matches played in the league this weekend Crawley Wasps were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs back in after serving a suspension, Emma Plewa back in the squad after a spell out with injury. Portsmouth back in action after 3 weeks following a couple of postponed fixtures.
Crawley Wasps taking the lead soon after the opening quarter hour, Natasha Stephens running in on goal heading in close on goal as a left wing cross drops to her. Portsmouth coming back to equalise 10 minutes later a long range shot tipped onto the bar by Gibbs, Jade Widdows quickest to react latching onto the ball to make it 1-1. Crawley Wasps coming straight back to retake the lead, Plewa running into the left channel taking the ball into the box and finishing clinically for her first goal of the season. The visitors reduced to 10 on the half hour, Katie Jones shown a straight red. A player down Portsmouth battled on 2nd half Crawley Wasps eventually extending their lead in the final 15 minutes Plewa racing through onto a long ball forwards travelling into the box and slotting the ball under the keeper to see the match won 3-1.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue to apply pressure to the top two in the Southern Premier Division extending their winning run to 9 matches now in all competitions. A 7th straight league win coming this Sunday on their travels against bottom side Chichester City Ladies. An even start to the game Plymouth growing stronger as the 1st half progressed the dead lock broken late in the half Amber Pollock 40 yards out hitting a rocket on the half volley to make it 1-0. Plymouth with a 1 goal lead going into the 2nd half have been scoring plenty of goals this season. Mollie Taylor making her 150th appearance for the club this Sunday making it 2-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half, heading in from a corner kick. Chances for both sides before Plymouth made it 3-0 from another corner in the 71st minute, captain Katie Middleton heading in at the near post. Into the final 10 minutes and a quickfire double from top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing Plymouth wrap up a 5-0 win.
Yeovil Town Women climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after a a 3rd straight league win. Playing at home this weekend taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women who themselves have now suffered 6 straight defeats in the league. Jamie Sherwood returning to Yeovil as manager in his first game in charge. An even start Yeovil taking the lead with Annie Heatherson moving out wide delivering the cross for Kelly Aldridge to score. The hosts reduced to 10 with half an hour played attacker Sarah Wiltshire receiving a straight red card. Yeovil with a narrow lead at the break. Despite being a player short creating chances, Aldridge coming close early on rattling the crossbar. A crucial 2nd goal coming as Meesha Dudley-Jones drives on to the corner of the 18 yard box and unleashes a shot into the top corner. Goalkeeper Beth Howard keeping Milton Keynes out at the other end with a double goal line save from a corner. The visitors pulling it back to 2-1 from another corner late in the game 10 player Yeovil holding on to win the 3 points.
Keynsham Town Ladies getting a good result on the road on Sunday in the Southern Premier Division away to Oxford United Women to see their good run of results continue 7 points from their last 3 matches now after losing all of their opening 6 games following promotion to the league join Milton Keynes Dons Women on 7 points. Justine Lorton’s 16th minute goal proving the difference between the sides. Oxford creating numerous chances with a host of corners unable to get a reply, Keynsham goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes making a number of fine saves to ensure the 3 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
One match played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend with Stevenage FC Women travelling up to Cambridgeshire to face Cambridge City Ladies. The hosts opening the scoring in the 20th minute Sofia Castiglione netting from a free-kick. Stevenage coming straight back to level the scores Ashleigh Deacon heading in at the back post. Cambridge City retaking the lead before half-time Charlotte Gillies racing through on the right her shot across the keeper parried into the path of Laura Mills to turn into the back of the net. 2-1 up at the break, Stevenage pressing for a 2nd goal in the on the counter attack Erin Pope’s crossed ball in looping over the keeper into the net beyond to make it 2-2. Cambridge City with a penalty shout late on not given the sides sharing the points both moving up a place in the table.
Sofia Castiglione with the opening goal of the match for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
A top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday on Women’s Football East, two sides defending a 100% winning start meeting for the 1st time this season as defending champions, Thorpe United Ladies host Bungay Town Ladies.
Bungay themselves Division One champions the season before, leading the way with 6 wins from 6 so far, Thorpe keeping pace in the defence of their title with 5 wins from 5. Aren’t the only side with a 100% winning start with newly promoted Tavern Ladies in the mix too.
Division One expanded in size this season up to 11 sides following an influx of new sides and a new to even up the two divisions. A strong start with 3 sides all with 100% records, Sprowston Ladies with 12 points from their opening 6 games well placed to capitalise should anyone slip up. One of those 100% records will fall this afternoon.
Thorpe United Ladies finding their form once again last season a force in women’s football since entering the league a strong youth set up seeing a new crop of young players join the squad last season. The squad bolstered going on to win the league title along with reaching the semi-finals of both the County and League Cup. More young players coming in this season, new signing too, Megan and Melissa Belsey from Sprowston Athletic joining the club along with Alice Ladbrooke returning from Wymondham Town Ladies. A new Reserves side formed this season to add to playing opportunities within the club has made a good start to life in Division Two amongst the front runners early on.
A League and Cup double for Bungay Town Ladies the season before last, like Thorpe an established side within the league. A transitional season last time around, losing players took a while to get going bringing new faces in young talent results improving as the season wore on. More new face coming in during the close season experience at a higher level, a fantastic pre-season, winning all their games the momentum carried on into the season itself. 6 wins out 6 to top the league early on, know it will be a competitive campaign with Thorpe and Tavern Ladies matching them so far. Saw Bungay earlier in the season in the Women’s FA Cup in a 15-0 demolition of Riverside Ladies, am not expecting anything like that this afternoon.
The Thorpe Recreation Ground the venue for today’s game, home of Thorpe United Girls & Ladies. A large playing field boasting a number of full-size pitches, a couple of youth matches taking place too on an adjoining pitch. The new clubhouse with a bar and kitchen serving hot and cold drinks. The pitch well used a good size, had hoped to get away with no rain this afternoon but as the teams warmed up it started to fall, light but persistent rain would disappear around 20 minutes into the game itself, thankfully no wind so juggling an umbrella, camera and notepad not as difficult as it could have been.
The players gathering around the centre circle before kick-off, today Remembrance Sunday a minutes silence observed for those who have fought and fallen in armed conflict around the world. Lest We Forget.
Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Morgan Devine, Tash Levesley, Megan Belsey, Holly Peck, Laura Hedtke, Alice Ladbrooke, Melissa Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Molly Howes, Bryony Knights & Millie Cursons.
Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Kelly Collins (C), Hannah Jones, Charlotte Power, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Nicola Hazell, Grace Storey, Samantha Penman & Leanne Smith. Subs – Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade & Erin Galer.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Bungay to get today’s top of the table clash underway wearing their new kit, blue coloured shirts with a light green sash across the front, blue shirts and socks with green and white trim. Thorpe in their traditional pink coloured shirts, black shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defence, midfielder Selina Rowland picking it up carrying the ball forwards over halfway sending it up the line for Samantha Penman to chase, Tash Levesley going with her for Thorpe the full back defending the ball put out for a throw.
Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake looking for a shooting opportunity early in the game.
Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake a constant goal threat has 12 goals already this season from 5 appearances, the ball played through the middle as she peels off the shoulder of the last defender, Hannah Jones doing well to get back against her shoulder to shoulder into the box right of goal, Bungay goalkeeper Joanne Pipe coming to close the gap sliding in both collide the ball spinning out to the left into the path of Thorpe’s Ellie Hunter she brings the ball under control before striking towards goal, Kelly Collins captaining Bungay round on the cover to intercept the ball and clear.
Bungay Town Ladies captain, Kelly Collins
Bungay get up the other end the ball into the area, no shot on as Holly Pack wins it for Thorpe played out to the left wing Thorpe launch a rapid counter Hunter keeping the ball in play sending it on for Lake who has broken into space on the left plays it inside for the advancing Laura Hedtke through the middle, lines up a 25 yards strike, low in towards goal not troubling Pipe back on her goal line. Thorpe lively at the start of the match getting players forwards quickly when they have possession using the width of the pitch the ball on the right crossed in dangerously towards the near post, Pipe throwing herself up to keep the ball from creeping in pushing it behind for a corner.
The high ball in from the right defended by Rowland, Bungay can’t get an attack going, Thorpe winning the ball back high up the pitch, keep the pressure on out to Melissa Belsey on the right wing another vicious cross whipped in near post, Pipe doing well to get herself in front of Sophie Jermy running in that side to punch the ball to safety. Bungay not settling well passes rushed no one taking time on the ball, Thorpe able to turn it around, competitive in the middle of the park, Alice Ladbrooke backed up by Hedtke not giving much away. Hunter on the left playing a one two with Jermy as she gets on down the wing, receiving the ball coming inside 20 yards out looking to go across the top of the box, dips her shoulder taking the ball inside to shot the ball narrowly wide of the left post.
Ellie Hunter getting on down the left for Thorpe United Ladies
Jermy moving left with Hunter combining again,supported by full back Levesley the ball played back to her 35 yard out goes for goal, the ball on target dipping in front of Pipe, traps it well with her legs to bring it under control and claim on the bounce. Light raining falling up until now making it slick on top has finally stopped. Ladbrooke sliding in to regain possession inside the Bungay half setting up an attack out to Hunter taking it on down the left a cross fizzed in along the top of the area, Charlotte Power getting hold of it for Bungay.
Charlotte power in ahead of Rebekah Lake to win the ball for Bungay
The visitors have got little going in the way of attack so far in the match, kept on the back foot by Thorpe’s bright start, Rowland bringing the ball on a good threaded pass to find Grace Storey free on the right lifts it on into the box for Penman, Megan Belsey across putting in the challenge defending well for Thorpe the ball out for a throw. The ball continues to ping around, no one wants a 2nd touch it seems a little rushed at time passes not finding their mark. Melissa Belsey able to travel with it wide right inside for Jermy breaking forwards shoots early doesn’t get a clean strike the ball across the face of goal wide collected easily by Pipe.
Thorpe have the Bungay defence pushed back, the midfield needing to back up making it difficult when they regain the ball to get anyone up to support Leanne Smith and Penman in attack. The attackers combine as Smith takes the ball on with a marauding run on the left cutting the cross back inside to Penman inside the area her 1st touch seeing her beat her marker knock the ball on towards goal, but as the turns to give chase too much to do as goalkeeper Cara Anderson comes to gather for Thorpe.
Samantha Penman bringing the ball out from the back for Bungay Town Ladies
From a Bungay attacking opportunity off a throw on the left Thorpe win the ball and launch a fast counter attack, Jermy bringing the ball out playing it long for Lake always looking for an opening up top in space, bringing the ball inside closed down in front of the area, opts to cross instead of shot picking out Melissa Belsey far side on the right off the area, her 1st time effort blazed over. Thorpe coming on strong Hunter inside to Ladbrooke the ball knocked on through the middle into the box, Jermy looking to get onto the end of it, Bungay defending desperately, Lake getting a shot away from six yards out, Pipe down to make the save.
Thorpe are using the width of the pitch well Hunter and Melissa Belsey staying close to the touchline the ball worked from left to right well, Jermy central finding pockets of space. with Lake always ready to burst forwards with the ball or to receive it, Lindsey Adams out to intercept on two occasions in quick succession for Bungay. Hunter from the left byline sending in a cross Lake running in far post unable to reach it, Pipe with an outstretched arm plucking the ball down a vital save with Jermy rushing in behind.
Sophie Jermy bringing the ball under control for Thorpe United Ladies
Adams once again across to head the ball clear from the box a Lake drives on down the right flank before attempting the cross. Hedtke up for a throw on the left high up the pitch for Thorpe swinging a dangerous ball low into the box, Power sticking a leg out to deflect it out of Lake’s path central before being cleared. Hunter put in clear on the left from a long ball out of defence races on before crossing a dipping ball into the six yard box, Adams cutting it out and launching clear for Bungay.
Bungay Town Ladies, Lyndsey Adams
Bungay make a change a frustrating afternoon so far for Smith she is replaced by Porsha Renwick. Pipe sharp off her line out to win the race to claim the ball as Lake is put in behind from a lofted pass from Ladbrooke central. Bungay’s defence on the back foot, battling well Jones getting in front of Jermy to intercept a cross put in from the right. Thorpe make a change, Melissa Belsey coming off, on comes Millie Cursons, she goes out to the left side with Hunter coming right.
GOAL! 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half and all the pressure Thorpe have exerted brings them a goal. Lake hard to shake off the ball once she gets hold off it draws players towards her as Thorpe overload the right skipping inside into the area drives on towards the six yard box firing a cross in towards Cursons positioned central inside it, she shoots, close on Pipe manages to get something on the ball as she throws herself down by not enough to keep it out 1-0.
Ladbrooke fouled by Rowland top of the centre circle a free kick to the hosts players come forwards Hedtke to take lifted into the top of the area Riggall winning the header for Bungay, Rowland clears. Bungay make a 2nd change Erin Galer on for Storey on the right, Jones pushed forwards. Thorpe break Hunter right passing inside to Hedtke forwards into Lake she aims to thread it through into the box for the breaking Jermy, Pipe able to claim it.
Thorpe ending the half strong a corner won on the right played up the line short for crossed in near post, Ladbrooke jumping can’t get a touch Rowland back on the post defending to clear for Bungay. A free-kick wide on the right to Thorpe, Hedtke to play into the area cleared by Riggall, the visitors attempt to break, Thorpe in well to break in down as they have all half. Levesley left on for Cursons to cross it caught by Pipe.
Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies
A dominant 1st half display from Thorpe sees them leading at the break, just the 1 goal to show for all that dominance however, Pipe with some excellent stops to keep the score down, other chances not taken. Have hardly been troubled by Bungay in attack. Despite that Bungay battling have defended well often on the back foot struggling to get anything going forwards often starting from deep unable to get support up to their attackers. At 1-0 however they are far from out of the game and half-time a chance to regroup ad reorganise.
As well as serving the community as a sports ground, Thorpe Recreation Ground is a haven for dog walkers. Those attending the match and out for a stroll. The half-time entertainment provided by tiny jacket wearing Chihuahua with probably the squeakiest bark on the planet, not deterred by his size his little legs pumping after a much larger dog, his opponent unsure what to make of his cat sized attacker… it all ended peacefully.
Tash Levesley and Porsha Renwick battling for the ball
The overcast skies seeing the light fading fast as the teams entered the pitch for the 2nd half. Smith back on for Bungay Penman off. Thorpe to get the 2nd half underway attacking left, Power conceding an early corner. Thorpe take it short up the line the cross in from deep almost finds its way through near post. Bungay look to bring it out, Hedtke central in to win it back for Thorpe lifts it up towards the top of the area for Lake, the bounce not favouring the Thorpe captain she plays it instead out to Cursons free left side, her shot put over the bar.
Thorpe United Ladies, Holly Peck
Thorpe beginning where they left off 1st half, Hunter attacking right putting it back central for Hedtke 20 yards out she plays it though to Lake left side of the area, Galer winning the challenge for Bungay a corner conceded. The ball cleared, comes straight back on Devine with a good ball forwards Lake with the opportunity won;t come down as she knocks it to the right, Pipe blocking as she slides in on the ball. Lake gathering the ball on the right played inside for Hedtke 25 yards out shoots over.
Morgan Devine looking for options after winning the ball back for Thorpe
Hunter gets hold of the ball on the right drives on down the line for Thorpe, Collins though stays on her well keeping pace and preventing the cross coming in eventually winning a goalkick. Bungay getting frustrated are far from done battling to find an opening Hazell left side has Smith running into space ahead of her the pass picking her down Smith looks to get on, Megan Belsey coming across to tackle the ball taken off Smith, Peck backing up as Renwick looks to pounce take it on into the area. The game starting to open up a little Thorpe need that 2nd goal. The hosts make a change Bryony Knights coming on to replace Hunter.
Charnelle Riggall
Bungay starting to find a bit of rhythm Rowland and Riggall getting more joy through the middle. Rowland in to win it playing it up to Renwick, Peck preventing her turning in behind. Hazell left turns her marker well off a throw in plays it on to Rowland inside the box flashes a dangerous cross into the six yard box the ball cleared. Another throw won on the corner left side Smith gathering turning pushing on into the area, players closing her down it skips up for Renwick with her in the left to clip in towards goal with the outside of her boot, Anderson well placed to catch.
Selina Rowland on the ball for Bungay Town Ladies
Bungay creating opportunities of their own taking more risks going forwards are further at risk of being hit on the break and Thorpe a quick to turn play around the ball long up to Lake already on the move left channel running with the ball into the area pulls the trigger, a brilliant save from Pipe throwing up a glove to tip the ball over the bar. The resulting corner in from the left knocked down inside the box a scuffed shot in on goal the ball trapped on the line and cleared.
Rowland looking to bring the ball forwards making a couple of strong runs without finding the final pass, the Thorpe defence under some pressure now Bungay fired up sensing they can get something from the game. Rowland on the left after the ball crossing from the byline, Smith sliding in near post, Anderson getting it away down to block. Thorpe bring off Devine to be replaced by Molly Howes with 25 minutes left to play. Smith sends a shot over from outside the ball as a ball is deflected into her path by Jones.
Smith off a quickly taken throw on the left puts it inside to Rowland top of the area, turns attempting to get inside to shoot, a lunging tackle from Ladbrooke denies her. Hazell out wide left takes on a shot from distance in on target Anderson back peddling getting her arms up to tip it away to the right. Bungay keep possession a low driven ball fired back in Anderson down to make another save the ball pushed away for the corner. In from the left inswinging Anderson in a crowded six yard box punching it away.
Nicola Hazell gathering the ball for Bungay
Despite their earlier dominance Thorpe defending a 1 goal lead aren’t comfortable battling themselves now to keep their advantage intact. Lake strong on the ball bringing it forwards left side travelling at pace, Adams defending well for Bungay. Bungay bring on Shannon Dade for Riggall in the middle. Power intercepting a Thorpe through ball, looks to get Hazell away on the left, Ladbrooke regaining possession for Thorpe. Players committed forwards Thorpe counter played up to Cursons central 30 yards out her first touch pass setting up the advancing Lake moving across her into the area right side to shoot across goal, Pipe with another fantastic saving diving to her left arm out to push the ball behind.
The game end to end now the clock running down Bungay can’t clear from the resulting corner Thorpe put it back in Knights near side can’t fashion a shot forced to put it back out to the left the cross long this time Jermy up at the far post her header put cross goal. Bungay get the ball on through the middle Rowland forcing her way in behind clear for a moment looks to have the beating on the advancing Anderson as both slide in Rowland knocking it past the keeper but the power lost on the ball it rolls on to be safely cleared by the recovering Thorpe defence.
Cursons into the Bungay box receiving a long diagonal ball from the left cuts across her shot firing the ball back across the keeper, Pipe with more acrobatics diving full stretch the push the ball behind her goal. A substitution for Thorpe before the corner is taken, Jermy off with Melissa Belsey back on. Lake remains a constant threat peeling away into the channels left this time racing on to shoot on the angle the ball held by Pipe low at her near post. Adams off late on for Bungay, Penman back into the action.
Into the closing minutes the light has almost gone very gloomy, Thorpe battling late on to hold onto their lead, keeping the ball well the youngsters encouraged to run it into the corner. A free-kick won slowing thing’s down Hedtke to play it into the box, headed up high by the Bungay defence play stopped a foul spotted. The ball played out the final whistle blows and Thorpe United Ladies end Bungay’s 100% winning start make it 6 wins out of 6 themselves.. ironically drop a place to 3rd in the table as the other 100% winning side Tavern Ladies go top win a big win against bottom side Freethorpe to claim top spot, all three sides on 18 points now, an intriguing title race that’s far from over.
Full time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies
A 1-0 win for Thorpe in the finish Millie Cursons goal late in the first half proving the difference. Thorpe dominant in the 1st half having just the one goal to show for it could and perhaps should have been leading by more. Started the 2nd half well, Bungay frustrated fired up coming strong with opportunities of their own to level the scores as Thorpe grew nervous uneasy will just a single goal lead. Dangerous on the counter though as the game opened up, Bungay had Joanne Pipe to thank producing some fantastic saves to keep it to 1-0. Couldn’t find an equalising goal in the finish and that would have been harsh on Thorpe who in the end had to earn the win.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders, for Bungay huge credit to Joanne Pipe produced some quality saves to keep her side in the match throughout. For Thorpe, Rebekah Lake has had a few of these and rightly so a constant threat hard to shake off the ball and making great runs to get into scoring position setting up the winning goal. Sophie Jermy too early on especially finding pockets of space between defence and midfield, where Thorpe were strong, the notes will often help towards picking someone out and that is the case today, Laura Hedtke close but just beating her to the award Alice Ladbrooke. Won alot of challenges, breaking up play and setting up attacks.
Always a good rivalry between the two sides and had no doubt today would be a close fought game. 1 goal in it should have been more but kept the intrigue going to the end an entertaining fast paced contest, a good advert for women’s football in Norfolk. Thanks to both teams for the team details always appreciated.
Haverhill Rovers Ladies move back to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership going 3 points clear of Leverington Sports Ladies who weren’t in action this Sunday with their 5 straight win to start the season following promotion last season. A hard fought win at home against fellow promoted side Ketton Ladies, the side all square drawing 2-2 with 5 minutes left to play Haverhill scoring to win the game 3-2 at the death. Kayleigh Nolan with he 7th goal of the season along with a brace for Amy Evans for the hosts. Sascha Smith and Ellen Marson with the goals for Ketton.
ICA Sports Ladies move back up to 3rd in the Premiership coming out on top on a thriller away to Cambridge University Women this Sunday. 10 goals scored between the two sides, Clare Knibbs on target to score a hat-trick for ICA Sports to put on 5 for the season. Donna Nicholls has 8 goals now adding another two to her tally this weekend with Megan Purnell also getting a goal her first of the campaign to secure a 6-4 victory for the Peterborough based side.
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves new the the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season are up to 5th in the table winning their 2nd match of the season. A local derby this Sunday against Riverside Ladies, a comfortable win for the visitors in the finish. Ellie Spendelow scoring a hat-trick for Peterborough Northern Star, there was also a brace too for both Eve Lomasney and Elli Gavaghan with Kimberly Fairweather on target for a goal to see it finish 8-0.
Ellie Spendelow with a hat-trick for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies Reserves on Sunday (photo credit PNS Ladies)
Histon Ladies Reserves are off the foot of the Premiership table as they win their first game of the season. Playing Cambridge City Ladies A for the 2nd successive weekend bounced back well after suffering a heavy 8-0 loss last time out. Goals scored by Abigail Davies, Anneka DeAth and Philippa Hayden-Evans securing a 3-0 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
Three games taking place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship this weekend and with league leaders Cambridge Rangers Women involved in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup it presented an opportunity for 2nd placed Mildenhall Town Ladies to take over top spot themselves if they could secure a 5th straight win away to Pinchbeck United Ladies. Not an easy task however as Pinchbeck were defending a 100% winning start themselves winning 3 from 3 circumstances seeing them not play a league game for over a month. A big win the the league cup their only game in October. Pinchbeck making it 4 wins from 4 moving up to 3rd a point behind Mildenhall, Freya Peters scoring a brace to give her 8 goals for the season with Victoria Bradford also getting on the scoresheet with a goal in a 3-0 win.
Eaton Socon Ladies climb to 4th in the Championship table joining Pinchbeck on 12 points with their 4th win of the season 10 points won from the last 5 played. Were away to fellow league newcomers Haverhill Rovers Ladies Development who were still to register a point at the foot of the table. Eaton Socon finding their feet in the league plenty in their squad scoring goals, Cerys Richards and Hannah Hutchinson both getting a brace on Sunday. Mollie Childerley, Samantha Webster, Cara Howell and Rebecca Jones with her first goal of the season securing an 8-1 win. Natasha Caine with her first goal scoring for Haverhill.
Deeping United Ladies were at home this Sunday in the Championship playing Newmarket Town Ladies Development both new to the league this season and keen to push on up the table, the result could have gone either way Newmarket coming away with the 3 points to win their 2nd game of the season narrowly clinching it 3-2, Jordanne Sillitoe making her first start netting a brace along with a goal for Talia Irvine. Hannah Chapman on target to score her 10th goal of the season for Deeping United with Caroline Sutherland the other goal scorer.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
Three ties played this weekend in the 1st Round of this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup. A big win at home for Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds taking in Championship side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Ebony Rule top scoring in the match bagging herself 5 goals to move her onto 7 for the season. Top scorer Marie Stubbings adding another 4 goals to her tally has 13 now for the season. Both Sarah Gee and Krissie Taylor with two goals each with Sarah Bodger also celebrating a goal in a comfortable 14-2 win to see Fulbourn safely through to the next round.
Premiership side March Town United Ladies also through to the next round of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, a trip to Championship side Isleham United Ladies in the 1st Round. March coming up against a stubborn and well organised Isleham side eventually going on to win the game 4-1 to progress with 3 players all scoring their first goals of the campaign, Louise Barbour making her appearance of the season getting on the scoresheet along with Sydney Davis and Jordan Turner with a brace her first goals for March. Laura Todd with the goal for Isleham.
The other 1st Round tie in the competition was an all Championship affair with league leaders Cambridge Rangers Women making a 100% winning start to the season away to Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Meeting a fortnight ago in the league Cambridge Rangers coming out to win the match 4-2. Found Swavesey Spartans to be tough opponents again the league newcomers taking the lead with Meadow Wooldridge putting them 1-0 up. Cambridge Rangers coming back to level the scores and go on to win the tie 3-1 to progress with goals from Robyn Barlow, Stephanie Rowan and Vanessa Martinez Ramos.
The top two meeting in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this weekend with defending champions Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies 6 points clear of St Albans Ladies who have two games in hand both defending a 100% winning record at the start of the season 6 from 6 for Hemel Hempstead. Amy Bentall firing in the opening goal for the league leader midway through the 1st half with her 5th goal of the season. Bianca Hedgecock making it 2-0 a minute before half-time with her 14th goal of the season. St Albans not taking their chances came close striking the crossbar and post pulling it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes left Eleanor Lovelock with a lobbed header over the keeper to get her 6th goal of the season, Hemel Hempstead restoring their 2 goal cushion 3 minutes before the end Natasha McConville with her 7th goal of the campaign. Hemel Hempstead going 8 points clear at the top.
Their first loss of the season see’s St Albans drop to 3rd place in the Division One table overhauled by Hitchin Town Ladies moving 2nd after they came out on top in the first Hitchin derby of the season away to Hitchin Belles this Sunday. Hitchin Belles still looking for their first points following promotion as Division Two champions it was Hitchin Town who held the narrow advantage at the break taking the lead in the 19th minute Holly Darling put through on goal to make it 1-0. Hitchin Belles creating chances it was Hitchin Town who doubled their lead on the hour Darling sliding in to beat the advancing keeper for the ball and send it in to claim her 2nd of the match. Lauren Wyatt with a tap in putting Hitchin Town 3-0 with 15 minutes left to play a 4th goal coming deep in stoppage time Lucy Huffer’s ball fired into the box deflected into the back of the net for an own goal.
Elsewhere in Division One the points were shared between Hartham United Ladies and Garston Ladies. Garston hosting 5th in the table Hartham United in 4th pushing for the top three. A hard fought game Garston creating opportunities in the first half scoring 4 goals, Hartham United matching that total to see the points shared in a competitive 4-4 draw. Janiece Allen taking her tally to 9 goals for the season for Hartham United scoring a hat-trick. Sophie Mandel also on target scoring her 4th. Cassandra Chase with her first goal for Garston, with 3 players all getting their 3rd goals of the season, a penalty from Chloe Farrell, with Holly Jury and Charley Kesley also scoring.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies took full advantage of league leaders Langford Ladies not playing this Sunday to join them on 12 points at the top of the Division Two table as they made it 4 wins from 4 to match them for the season. There 100% winning start continuing at home as they took on Watton Ladies. First goals for Sarah Fuller and Natasha Wing seeing Kempston edge the victory by 2 goals to 1 at the final whistle. Jodie Shackell with the goal for Watton her first for the club.
A first win of the season for Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses last weekend playing catch up in the league winning 9-0 in just their 2nd league game. Were at home to high flying Garston Ladies Vintage Purples this weekend. Garston feeling a little worse for wear up against another of the newly promoted teams, did well to limit their chances coming closest to opening the scoring first half Emma Trill seeing her shot touched onto the post by the opposing keeper. The visitors creating chances 2nd half, Woburn & Wavendon getting the only goal of the match 4 minutes from time a corner won headed in at the back post by Laura Taylor for her first goal of the season, enough to win the 3 points lift Woburn & Wavendon up to 5th in the table.
A 2nd win of the season too for Sherrardswood Ladies on Sunday as they travelled to play Bedford Ladies Development. The visitors taking an early lead Michaela Green scoring 2 minute into her Sherrardswood debut lobbing the keeper to make it 1-0. Sherrardswood going on to dominate the first half unable to extend their lead, Bedford coming back to level the scores before half-time Alicja Olszanka on target for her 6th goal of the season. A positive start to the 2nd half for Sherrardswood, Bedford’s keeper with a couple of saves, the visiting side retaking the lead on the hour Francesca Novelli striking from outside the box to find the back of the net for her first goal of the season. Both sides with chances after that, Sherrardswood making the 3 points safe in the final 5 minutes Manjinder Atwal onto the end of a cross to make it 3-1.
The points shared in the final match to bring you in Division Two, Evergreen Ladies playing bottom side Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies. A tough start to the season for both Evergreen with their first win of the season last weekend looking to build on that result. Another side feeling worse for the wear they conceded an early goal just the 2nd Wheathampstead have managed so far this season. Evergreen pushed hard for a reply Wheathampstead holding out to lead 1-0 at the break. The equalising coming late in the 2nd half Leane Pickett coming of the bench to score.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Herts Vipers and Harvesters Ladies neck and neck at the top of Division Three with 5 wins from 5 each, Harvesters not playing this Sunday saw an opportunity for Herts Vipers to go 3 points clear at the top as they looking to continue their 100% winning start playing Flitwick Eagles Ladies for the 2nd successive weekend. 10-0 to Herts Vipers last time out unfortunately for Flitwick it was more of the same, Herts Vipers young side full of goals Flitwick held out for half an hour then the floodgates opened with a flurry of goals to end the first half. Top scorer Nicole Jancey with a rapid fire hat-trick had 5 to her name before the break, Chloe Underwood also scoring first half would go on to make it a hat-trick herself in the 2nd period giving her 4 goals from just two appearances. Jancey scoring a 6th goal to put her on 25 goals already this season from just 7 games. Ellie Bates making her 2nd appearance of the season opening her account for Herts Vipers with a goal. Annalie Wood and Kelsey Millen also getting a goal a piece the final score 13-0.
A high scoring win too on Sunday away from home for 4th placed Biggleswade United Ladies in Division Three taking on Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves. A strong first half seeing Biggleswade race into a 7-0 lead top scorer Leeanne Davison opening the scoring on target to make it 1-0 inside the opening 5 minutes, Kayleigh Saunders quickly making it 2-0, Davison getting another to put Biggleswade 3 up inside the opening quarter hour. Saunders going to to complete a hat-trick plus a 4th before half-time to give her 10 goals for the season. Angelica Fachechi with a goal too late in the 1st period. Davison scoring 2 more 2nd half to put her on 14 goals for the season, Biggleswade leading 9-0 a late consolation goal coming for Hitchin Town, their goalkeeper Zoe Nemeth scoring the goal. A free-kick won outside the box the initial strike hitting the wall deflected back to Nemeth hit it first time sending the ball high looping down under the crossbar and bouncing over the line. Winning 4 of their opening 5 league games Biggleswade well placed to put pressure on the leading trio.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies are up to 5th in the Division Three table now as they continued their fine run of form at home to Whetstone Wanderers Ladies on Sunday. 10 points now won from their last 4 matches a 3rd win in that run coming this weekend against Whetstone Wanderers still looking for their first points since joining the league. Stotfold Juniors leading 2-0 at half-time going on to win the match 5-0. Chloe Ward scoring her 7th goal of the season for Stotfold their were goals too for Gemma Robertson and Georgina Yates plus first goals of the season for Holly Konopka and Hope Page.
Bedwell Rangers Ladies were away this Sunday taking on 3rd placed Kempston Rovers Ladies who had made an great start to the season winning 4 of their opening 5 league games. Bedwell Rangers making a good start taking the lead Freya Rampley on target from a corner to make it 1-0. Maisie Main doubling the lead for the visiting side firing Bedwell Rangers into a 2 goal lead from the penalty spot. Kempston Rovers getting it back to 2-1. Captain Georgia Miller sending in a cross for Jessica Sullivan to meet putting Bedwell Rangers 3-1 to the good at half-time. Kempston Rovers improving in the 2nd period fighting back to score twice and see the points shared in a 3-3 draw, Jessica Pitts with her first goal and Sabrina Stramaglia with a brace.
Silver End United Ladies keep up their fantastic start to the season their unbeaten run now stretching to 8 matches in the Essex Women’s Premier Division to keep 3 points in front at the top of the table over Collier Row Tigers. At home to 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies this weekend. Silver End with a narrow 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture at the start of the season. Getting better as the season moves on scoring goals recorded a more comfortable result to clinch a 7th win of the season this time around. Ella Tooley putting Silver End 1-0 up inside the opening 5 minutes with her first goal of the season. Rosi Webb with her 9th strike of the season making it 2-0 on 12 minutes. Chelmsford restricting the hosts to just the 2 goals in the 2nd half Sarah Jolly with a quick fire brace early in the 2nd half seeing Silver End take a 4-0 lead. Lauren Hannah made it 5-0 in the 77th minute with another goal soon following Jolly completing a hat-trick to see the game won 6-0.
Match action from Silver End United v Chelmsford City (photo credit Ian Kendle)
A game in hand for Collier Row Tigers 3 points behind the leaders are matching Silver End all the way so far in the Premier Division both sides dropping 2 points so far and those against each other back in September. Collier Row getting a 6th win of the season at home this Sunday playing Frontiers Ladies. Not reporting a Laura Bunton goal this week, Collier Row winning the match 2-0 the goals scored by Ammarah Ali and Emily Dempsey with her 1st goal of the season.
Billericay Town Ladies Development coming from behind to earn a point at the weekend in the Premier Division away to Southend United Ladies. Christina Fragnito volleying Southend into the lead 1st half. Billericay getting it back to 1-1. Southend retaking the lead Lily Halliday with a lovely piece of skill sending a shot in over the keeper for her 5th goal of the season. Again Billericay came back to level the scores, Ellie Ashford tapping in a goal to put Southend into the lead for the 3rd time in the match see them 3-2 up at half-time. The hosts making a poor start to the 2nd half Billericay capitalising to come back for behind for a 3rd time in the match keeping Southend from scoring again the game ending 3-3. Sophie Nyiro netting a brace for Billericay takes her to 8 for the season, Rebecca Gallagher also scoring with her 6th goal of the campaign.
Essex Women’s Division One
The top two meeting in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday with Corringham Cosmos Women looking to maintain their 100% winning start to the season at home taking on Aveley Ladies who lost their own 100% record last weekend defeated for the first time in the league by Tigers Ladies. Both on 15 points going into the game Corringham with a game in hand. Sophie Corcoran scoring in the 35th minute giving the hosts a narrow lead at half-time. Just past the hour Corringham doubled their advantage going 2-0 ahead with Rachel Fleming scoring her first goal of the season. Top scorer Michelle Sumpter extending the lead to 3-0 with 20 minutes left scoring her 12th goal of the season to see Corringham to a 3-0 win. Aveley with back to back defeats.
In contrast it was back to back league wins this Sunday for Hutton Ladies Reserves in Division One, after taking just a point from their opening 4 league matches. Away to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies Development this weekend. Leading 1-0 at half-time Hutton going on to score twice more in the 2nd half to secure a 3-0 win. Lucy Blurton and Chloe Eastwell with their first goals of the season with Mathilda Cant also on target with a goal. Bowers & Pitsea slipping further down the table haven’t won since the opening day of the season.
The bottom pair meeting this Sunday, Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves without a point yet away to Chigwell Ladies who had just the one point so far. Chigwell getting that first vital league win of the season to earn the 3 points a narrow win, edging the result by 2 goals to 1 Jessica MacNab and Karen Ulyatt with her first goal of the season. Chigwell also on target with an own goal for Chelmsford.
