The weather affecting the FAWNL fixture schedule again this Sunday the wet weather seeing games called off. 1st Round ties being played in both the FAWNL Cup & Plate competitions. 3 1st Round ties beating the weather in the FAWNL Cup and all of them very close affairs with 2 going all the way to penalties to decide the winner.
One of those ties in Wales with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies making the trip to face Cardiff City Ladies. A narrow 1-0 victory to Cardiff when the pair met in the league 3 weeks ago. This afternoon’s cup match no less different Milton Keynes working hard in defence to keep Cardiff out, the Cardiff defence just as effective nothing separating the sides as they fought out a goalless draw to see the game go to a penalty shootout. Two great saves from Milton Keynes goalkeeper Emma Kirby and 3 out of 3 successfully converted for Milton Keynes seeing them into the next round of the competition.
Penalties needed too to separate Enfield Town Ladies and Yeovil Town Women. South East Division One side Enfield hosting higher league opponents at the weekend. A goal form Meesha Dudley-Jones firing Yeovil into a 30th minute lead the Southern Premier Division side holding the advantage at half-time. Enfield in good form at the start of the season coming back straight away in the 2nd period to level the scored with Beth Lumsden on target to make it 1-1. Chances coming for both sides Yeovil, Sarah Wiltshire putting Yeovil back into the lead with 20 minutes left scoring her 13th goal of the season. Three minutes left on the clock and Enfield pulled it back to 2-2 to send the game into extra-time new signing Rachel Kosky with her first goal for the club. 2-2 the game not settled in extra-time headed to penalties. Yeovil coming out on top winning the shootout 4-2 to advance in the competition.
Match action from Enfield Town Ladies v Yeovil Town Women (photo credit @MikeyTheTowner)
Essex side AFC Basildon Women headed down to the south coast on Sunday to meet Southampton Women’s FC in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Cup. The South West Division One side taking the lead with almost half and hour played Laura Vokes finding the back of the net. Basildon coming back to equalise on the stroke of half-time Holly Turner making it 1-1 in the 43rd minute with her 4th goal of the season. An exciting final 20 minutes to the match Southampton restoring the lead on 72 minutes with Vokes striking across the keeper to score her 2nd of the game. Basildon attacking a strike sent in from distance Southampton goalkeeper Rose Kite saving pushing the ball up onto the bar dropping down at the far post 17-year-old Sophie Spencer introduced at half-time there to shot and get it back to 2-2. The hosts winning a penalty in the 82nd minute Jane Yeates seeing her spot kick superbly saved by Basildon goalkeeper Charlie Bolland. Into stoppage time the visitors winning a corner the ball put into box and bundled in for a last gasp winner.
FAWNL Plate
The FAWNL Plate suffering casualties too due to the weather 2 ties played this Sunday featuring sides from the Southern Premier Division & South East Division One. A tough test for Kent Football United newly promoted to the FAWNL away to Watford Ladies now finding form in the Southern Premier up to 2nd in the table unbeaten in 5. The underdogs though taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Amy Russ sending in a free-kick, Rebecca Mackley leaping to score her first goal for the club. A solid first half seeing the South East Division One side keep Watford at bay up the other end to lead at the break. Watford coming back starting well in the 2nd half finding an equaliser on 53 minutes, Petra Kos scoring on her debut for the club. Two minutes later the hosts were in front Anaisa Harvey on target for her first goal of the season. Watford’s fitness coming through as Kent started to tire the game entering the final 23 minutes Harvey striking again making it 3-1. Watford winning a penalty 5 minutes later captain Andrea Carid stepping up to score. Into the final 5 minutes of the match Harvey completing her hat-trick. Kos adding a 2nd of her debut to see Watford through to the next round with a 6-1 win.
A tough start to the season for both Chichester City Ladies of the Southern Premier Division and Swindon Town WFC of South West Division One with just a win and a draw between them. Meeting in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate this Sunday, Chichester hosting in was Swindon who held the advantage at the break Suze Berry’s 38th minute goal the difference between the sides. Swindon holding onto their lead until midway through 2nd half Natasha Wilde with a looping shot from outside the box making it 1-1. A minute later Lucy Cook introduced on the hour along with Gemma Staple brought down inside the box a penalty to Chichester, Gemma Simmonds to take her strike cannoning against the crossbar missed. The hosts pressing for a goal with less than 15 left, Simmonds intercepting before sending a shot into the bottom corner to put Chichester into the lead. Swindon needing a reply late into the game less than 5 minutes left on the clock a free-kick won, Meghan Larkin sending the ball into the top of the net to pull it back to 2-2 and see the game go into extra-time. Staple receiving a late call up to the senior squad smashing the ball into the top corner to put Chichester back into the lead 95th minute. Sophie Phelps heading in to put Chichester 4-2 up 2 minutes later the Southern Premier Division side at last registering their first victory of the season to progress.
Another slice of Women’s FA Cup action this Sunday a trip to Plantation Park for the 2nd Round Qualifying game between Norwich City Women & Cambridge United WFC.
An all FAWNL South East Division One clash the clubs from that level entering the competition at this stage the game postponed from last weekend, where absolutely nothing survived in Norfolk last Sunday the county well and truly underwater. An East Anglian derby this afternoon and could potential be the same again in 3rd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup with today’s winners away to either Ipswich Town Women or Royston Town Women whose game also fell foul to the weather last weekend.
The 2nd time Norwich and Cambridge have met in the space 4 days having meet in the league at Plantation Park on Wednesday evening, Vicky Lines with Australian side Capalaba FC most recently scoring her 1st goals for Cambridge putting them into the lead twice Norwich coming back to level twice to earn a share of the points with Natasha Snelling and Aimee Durrant scoring. Both sides keen to get points on the board in the bottom half of what is going to be a very competitive South East Division One.
Changes for both sides over the summer. Norwich changing their name from Ladies to Women a new manager in place Greg Dimsey now head coach. Have lost a few established players particularly in defence have plenty of young talent coming fighting for 1st team places.
Cambridge moving to a new home over the summer now base at St Neots Town FC both squads for training and games a new start have themselves lost a few experienced players a small squad again with youth coming through to battle it out for a place in the first team.
Plantation Park the venue for today’s match. Wet over night the ground came suffer from water logging so it was a case of hedging my bets to see if the game would beat the weather especially with games at either ed of Norfolk called off, but the rain wasn’t heavy and the pitch held up well. Would be soft underfoot and slick plenty of grass cover is a large pitch. The bar open serving hot and cold drinks, a covered stand offering some protection from the weather light rain at kick-off.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Jemma Moore, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Albany Hodgson, Faith Hewitt, Charlotte Crisp, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Vicky Lines & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Gemma Croucher, Grace Camfield, Katie White & Chloe Armstrong.
Both sides missing players most notably striker Chelsea Garrett for Norwich and midfielder Amber Cantwell for Cambridge amongst others. Norwich wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts to kick-off the first half. Cambridge in their change strip white shirts with blue design on front blue shorts and white socks. Cambridge quick to close the ball down no head way for Norwich at the start forced to play it all the way back to defence look to go long down the right Aimee Durrant with the run, Carrie Bennett putting the ball out for the throw defending for Cambridge.
Norwich come right again getting forwards the diagonal ball fired in with pace central met by Keunna Dill her tough taking it to the right looking to strike the shot Albany Hodgson there first to clear for Cambridge at the back. Cambridge counter the ball up to Emma Jenkins on the right up the wing into the corner Lauren Cullum staying with her for Norwich tackling to concede the first corner of the game. Players forwards for the back Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming to the ball flicking it on with her feet towards the far post the clearance put high before being headed behind for a 2nd corner. Fired in low towards the near post with Vicky Lines making a clever run shoots close range blocked. Norwich clear a rapid counter away on the right side Durrant crossing early the ball into the area gathered safely by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin.
GOAL! A goal inside the opening 5 minutes, Norwich taking the lead Cambridge bringing the ball out from the back Norwich quick to press bringing the error the ball won in the final third fired across the top of the area into Dill left of the D her tough taking it inside central 25 out latches onto the shot struck well sends the ball up over the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.
Norwich bright at the start of the game pressing centrally getting the ball forwards quickly a free-kick won on half way the delivery into the area defended the head sending the ball high to drop in behind, Durrant lively onto it but the angle against her the cross is put behind. Dill gets away on the left, Jemma Moore recovering well diving in with the challenge taking the ball away for the throw. Pamplin with an excellent save to deny Durrant as she attacks right taking on the shot early driven in across goal rising Pamplin throwing up and arm to push the ball behind for the corner kick. The delivery comes in central knocked down towards goal blocked, Burt then launching it clear.
Cambridge United WFC’s Jemma Moore.
Dill lively in attack for Norwich a good ball forwards into her from captain Millie Daviss, Dill getting in front of her marker central to swing her foot into the shot from 30 yards out in a central position, spinning as she strikes it Pamplin can watch it safely wide of her goal. Reeanna Cook and Daviss combine in attack for Norwich getting forwards Durrant the outlet wide right her ball in headed clear by Hodgson for Cambridge.
Eyes on the ball, Cambridge United WFC midfielder Charlotte Crisp
Norwich energetic at the start, Cambridge having soaked up the pressure well break the pass forwards seeing Amy Howlett away over halfway on the left races on towards the box coming inside one on one with the keeper commits Hope Armstrong into the dive attempting to block the ball as she travels right knocks it past her shoots trying to cut the ball back into the empty net the ball striking the base of the post.
GOAL! The post saving Norwich a moment ago, Cambridge getaway on the left in attack this time and score. Striker Kelley Blanchflower gathering the ball int her feet and driving up the left wing a powerful run on the ball taking it into the box to the byline getting away from a last ditch challenge to come back inside smashes her shot low across the goal to equalise 1-1.
Cambridge’s turn to exert some pressure in attack, Moore getting forwards on the overlap to support Jenkins. Lines across to help forces Norwich to give away the throw high up the pitch Moore has a long throw in her arsenal. The ball almost finds it’s way through across the six yard box Norwich struggle to clear eventually put out of the box gathered by Moore to loop a cross in from the right an inviting ball dropping far post Lines arriving late can’t quite get onto the end of it.
Cambridge’s Vicky Lines looking to find away through the Norwich defence
Norwich look to attack building on the left Dill laying it on for Cook, Cullum racing on to stay with her the pair combining before Cook sends in a waist high cross towards the top of the area, Snelling stooping to head the ball goalwards can’t get enough power on the ball to trouble Pamplin. Ebbing and flowing is an even contest plenty of energy no one allowed time on the ball and the wet surface making the ball tricky to control at times. Cook surging on through the middle looking to get hold of the ball, Burt out of defence making a strong tackle to deny her.
Izzy Collins clearing the ball for Norwich.
A good understanding forming between Lines and Blanchflower in attack for Cambridge are playing off one another well Cambridge inviting Norwich on at times drawing their defence forwards are quick to exploit Lines putting Blanchflower away to carry the ball on into the area right side closing it on the six yard box hits it hard rising straight at the keeper nevertheless Armstrong does well to get her gloves up to make the save and take the sting out of the shot able to grab it before Blanchflower can capitalise on the rebound.
Keunna Dill controlling the ball well on the touchline for Norwich City Women
A fantastic piece of skill form Dill out wide to bring the ball down on her chest and keep in as it is fired long up to her, plays it inside to Snelling before spinning in behind Moore, Snelling looking to pick her out with the return ball. Moore does well to get back on the Norwich attack to slide in and win the ball back. The light rain that has been falling has stopped the sky looking mildly brighter. Faith Hewitt central plays it on well for Blanchflower beating the offside trap to run at the box, Eliza McDonald with her making the challenge top of the box the ball cleared by Armstrong. Is competitive in the middle Angelina Nixon an ex-Cambridge player lunging in to win the ball against Crisp playing it forwards for Snelling, Burt close in win the tackle for Cambridge.
Cambridge United WFC captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt
Durrant on the right wing as Norwich push forwards, Cambridge dropping deep into their box the cross long gathered by Dill plays it central to Snelling, closely marked can’t turn to shoot holds up well though laying it back towards the top of the area for Nixon slight hesitation before shooting gives Hewitt the chance to dive in and charge the ball down. Howlett and Jenkins have switched flanks in attack for Cambridge, Howlett right now up with Lines forcing Norwich to concede a throw deep in their territory, Moore to put long into the six yard box bounces on through with no one getting a meaningful touch before being cleared far side.
Time running out in the 1st half Norwich on the attack. From a throw in left Dill plays it into the advancing Nixon left of the box her pass in central for Snelling 20 yards out a tame effort on goal, gathered cleanly by Pamplin. Dill brought down attacking left 30 yards out, Snelling on the set-piece long to the far post headed clear back out to the left Dill bringing it down fouled again another free-kick given.
GOAL! Norwich retake the lead in the closing moment of the first half Durrant on the free-kick fizzed in with pace a good height Daviss six yards out getting her head on the ball to power her header down wide of Pamplin to score 2-1.
Millie Daviss making it 2-1 to Norwich late in the first half
Half-time Norwich City Women 2-1 Cambridge United WFC
Norwich retaking the lead at the death in what was a very entertaining and fast paced half. The rain easing up and eventually stopping. The hosts vocally cheered on well by their mascots Haddenham Rovers Colts U12s treated to fantastic contest so far. The sides fairly even overall play fast little time on the ball. Cambridge soaking up more pressure at times but counter attacking well. Norwich lively throughout looking to get forwards at every opportunity taking an early lead. Cambridge coming back well the post struck before equalising disappointed to concede late in the first half.
Cambridge attack
Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway extra-time and penalties if needed. Blanchflower putting the ball on for Lines moving right, Cullum staying on her to get the ball away for the throw for Norwich. Norwich bring the ball on through the middle Daviss with Nixon onto Durrant away right a good cross into the box central Snelling moving towards the ball Burt on her shoulder squeezes a cut backed shot under the defender and she challenges, Pamplin central through reacts well to get down make the save.
Angelina Nixon on the ball for Norwich City Women
Cambridge feed the ball forwards into Blanchflower, determined on the ball getting forwards, Cullum halting her progress the striker sends it across the top of the box with Jenkins racing forwards central her attempt charged down the deflection spinning away to the far post gathering by Lines to hit goalwards, Armstrong across at her post diving getting both gloves securely around the ball.
Norwich goalkeeper, Hope Armstrong.
Nixon breaking up a Cambridge attack sends the ball on for the advancing Cook, Crisp across lunging in to tackle the ball won back the game competitive in the middle. Hodgson with a vital interception at the back for Cambridge as Dill aims to send Snelling in behind as she peels away right. Norwich with a ball forwards fortunate as it finds its way through to Durrant top of the area her tough forwards looks to prod it back across the keeper, Pamplin down making a fantastic save with her legs to deny her.
GOAL! Cambridge come back to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match. The ball played out from the ball into Jenkins central he helps it’s on its way to Blanchflower pulling away to the left in space she drives on intent on finding her way into the box shoots on the angle pace on the ball races past Armstrong into the goal beyond to score her 5th goal of the season 2-2.
Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower
Norwich look for an immediate reply Dill with a burst of pace on the left side travelling to the byline a good ball cut back towards the top of the area, no one making the run however allowing Cambridge to build a move forwards. Norwich making the first change of the match McDonald the player coming off, Kathryn Stanley coming on. A move that sees her go left and Dill drop into central defence. A flowing one two between Nixon and Snelling as the midfielder breaks forwards to the top of the area sees Snelling put a shot wide from inside the area.
Norwich City Women captain, Millie Daviss
The game remains open neither side on top both looking like they can score. Daviss with a superb pass forwards to pick out Durrant on the right down the wing a cross flashed in missed by Snelling near post, Pamplin plucking it down central needed with Stanley racing in far side. A 2nd change for Norwich with Cullum coming off, on in her place Rosie George. Norwich pushing up a throw on the right finds Nixon on the byline turns well to play it back to Durrant six yards out shoots, Burt throwing herself into the challenge blocking the ball away for a corner kick.
Emma Jenkins playing the ball for Cambridge with Norwich’s Aimee Durant closing in
Cambridge make their first change of the game, Gemma Croucher coming on for Lines in attack. Stanley with a 25 yard shot as Nixon brings the ball on from midfield is tackled. The shot straight at Pamplin. Crisp passing the ball on for Blanchflower pulling away left gets behind Robson, the full back recovering well to lunge in to make the block as the striker shoots from the edge of the box. Norwich with a 3rd change, Snelling the player off on comes Josie Jarvis with the game entering the final 10 minutes.
GOAL! Norwich have been competitive in the middle all game Daviss supported by Cook and Nixon the ball pressed and won put forwards into the path of Durrant right side of goal 25 plus yards out, strikes it well taken early up and down over the keeper to nestle in the goal beyond and give the hosts the lead late in the game 3-2.
Aimee Durrant playing the ball on scoring the winning goal for Norwich City Women
Cambridge get on the offensive straight from the restart the ball with Hewitt central on for Jenkins right does well to hold it up in the corner a lack of support doing well to get throw, Blanchflower back to Moore who crosses high into the area Jarvis able to bring it away for Norwich. Cambridge make a change Katie White on for Howlett. Norwich getting forwards looking to keep the ball in the corner Durrant managing to force a corner. A good delivery into the box attacked by George near side can only put her header wide across goal.
Norwich frustrating Cambridge late on determined to keep them off the ball Daviss with a looping shot as she gets free right 20 yards out dropping down at a comfortable height in front of Pamplin to claim. Grace Camfield coming on in the closing moments for Cambridge in place of Jenkins. Norwich with renewed energy the winning post in touching distance snapping in to win the ball Stanley shooting over from 30 yards out. Durrant back to help in defence in the closing seconds as Cambridge try to force a path through on the right. The final whistle blows and it’s Norwich who advance in the Women’s FA Cup.
Full time Norwich City Women 3-2 Cambridge United WFC
An away tie against East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women in 3rd Round Qualifying as they comfortably progressed against Royston this afternoon. The tie to be played Sunday 27th October. A late winner this afternoon and to be fair to both sides it could well have gone either way entering the final 15 minutes I felt that whoever scored next would go on to win the game you couldn’t have called it. Highly entertaining, competitive without any over the top challenges.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders once again. Kelley Blanchflower superb leading the attack for Cambridge strong and determined on the ball clinical in her finishing. For Norwich Aimee Durrant was excellent making fantastic runs to receive the ball always providing and outlet a well taken strike to win the game. Keunna Dill lively from the off a great strike to give Norwich the early lead offering a threat on the left. Midfield competitve all round a great contest to watch and coming out on top today’s award goes to Norwich captain Millie Daviss battle well breaking up play making it difficult for Cambridge to play through the middle.
An entertaining game, always frustrated afterwards because I want more! The weather not dampening things too much. My thanks to both teams for the team details as always appreciated.
The weather affecting the fixtures across Cambridgeshire too this Sunday heavy rainfall half the games fall by the wayside with some very late call offs. 3 of the 4 scheduled games surviving in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and it was a good result for Haverhill Rovers Ladies as they continue their excellent start to the season winning at home to previous leaders ICA Sports Ladies to go top of the table to keep up their 100% winning start. Haverhill Rovers hosting opening the scoring through a penalty scored by Kayleigh Steed. Kayleigh Steed scoring a brace in the match. Joeli Kirby heading in a Georgia England cross with England herself running through to shoot past the advancing keeper. 5-1 the winning score Clare Knibbs with the goal for ICA Sports who lose for the first time this season.
Leverington Sports Ladies up to 3rd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership table with their 2nd win of the season away to Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. A brace from Chloe Stanborough seeing the visitors into a 2-0 lead, Sophie Swinden making it 3-0 on target from a 30 yard free-kick. Histon getting it back to 3-1 before half-time with Bethany Fisher getting the goal. Leverington (probably be December before I stop typing Wisbech) with a strong 2nd half to run out comfortable winners. Stanborough with a penalty to complete her hat-trick, Faye Kowalewsky making it 5-1 with her first of the season would go on to score a 2nd another for Swinden sandwiched in between 7-1 up a quickfire brace from Amy Newell sealing a 9-1 win.
March Town United Ladies at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds this Sunday both playing just their 2nd league game of the season losing their opening fixtures ironically both against ICA Sports Ladies. In search of their first points of the campaign, it was March who were celebrating at the final whistle having secured their first win. Goals from Eleanor McLeish and captain Adele Munday giving march the 3 points.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
One game going the distance in the 1st Round of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup this Sunday. Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies Development at home to Championship newcomers Cambourne United Women. Arianna Andrade marking her first appearance for St Ives with a 4 goal haul. Rebecca Baldry also celebrating her first goals for St Ives bagging a brace. Molly Berryman an Francesca Worrall getting their accounts opened with a goal each. Ellen Bullinaria with her first goal along with Ellie Jefferson making her first appearance. Jade Carpenter with a hat-trick seeing St Ives advance with a 13-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship
One game beating the weather in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship and it was a good result for Cardea Ladies keeping up their 100% winning start to the season making it 3 wins from 3 to join Cambridge Rangers Women and Pinchbeck United Ladies on 9 points at the top of the table. Cardea hosting new side Swavesey Spartans Ladies. Captain Laura Rudd firing Cardea into a 2nd minute lead going on to add another in the first period with a goal for Courtney Coles seeing the hosts leading 3-0 at the break. Nicola Anderson on target twice in the 2nd period securing a 5-0 win.
Heavy rainfall on Saturday and into Sunday playing it’s part in restricting the fixtures played with Norfolk completely wiped out, the postponements pushed down into Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. Suffolk seeing 3 of the scheduled 7 fixtures called off. The postponements affecting the top two Brettvale Ladies and Needham Market Women Reserves it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Bury Town Ladies to take over at the top as they played host to Holland Ladies. 4 wins from 4 to start the season for Bury Town in good form Holland with a loss and a win to start their season. Back to back wins now for Holland Ladies as they inflict the first defeat in Bury Town this season a competitive game that saw a total of 9 goals scored, Bury finding the back of the net for 3 goals Lyndsie Duemmel and a brace for Kirsten Hutchings were undone at the other end conceding 6. Jasmine Cox with a brace with 4 players all celebrating their first Holland goals, Sophie Blowers, Kristy Lucraft, Sasha Moy and Megan-Leigh Lawrence.
That result allowing Alresford Colne Rangers to join Bury Town and Needham Market Women Reserves on 12 points as they bounce back with a 4th win of the season after suffering back to back defeats. At home to newcomers Ramsey & Mistley Ladies on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division. The hosts securing the win courtesy of a 6-2 result with 5 players opening their accounts for the season, Lauren Abbott with a brace, there were goal each for Rae Clancey, Jenna Cash and Leia Rudge with Vicky Hall also on the scoresheet. Kathryn Wells-Garrett with both goals for Ramsey & Mistley her first for the side.
Newcomers Henley Athletic Ladies enjoying a great start to the season now have 10 points from their last 4 matches up into 5th spot in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Were the latest side to come up against University of Suffolk Women who remain low on numbers. Henley Athletic at home with a full squad taking full advantage, Amy Gilson helping herself to 6 goals. Mollie Frost on target for 4 goals her first goals for Henley Athletic. Emma Long scoring a hat-trick, there were goals to for Enya Moore, Molly Curran and Clare Bevan the captain with her first of the season in a 17-1 win.
The weather playing its part in the match between AFC Kesgrave Ladies at home to Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies, treacherous conditions, a goalless first half, Kesgrave taking the lead the goal leading to an injury to Chantry’s goalkeeper a replacement needed Kesgrave going on to score a further 3 goals to win 4-0 and climb into the top half of the table as a result. Ashley Bustos scoring a brace to open her account for the season. Jade Fox also netting her first goal of the campaign wit Abigail Eley also scoring.
Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies continue to lead the way in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One keeping up their 100% winning start at home this Sunday playing Garston Ladies. Garston beating Hemel Hempstead last season coming into the game in good form themselves with back to back wins 7 points in total from their last 3 games. Proved to be a cracking game that saw 9 goals scored. Holly Jury netting a brace for Garston to open her account for the season with Charley Kelsey also finding the back of the net for a goal. 3 for the visitors defending champions Hemel Hempstead putting 6 past them at the other end to collect the 3 points. 6 different goalscorers for the hosts Lizzie Richardson opening the scoring Ella Mercer, Jessica Green and Charlene Turturici-Clarke all adding to the goals tally before half-time. Kayleigh Baker and Anna Wooldridge with the goals 2nd half. A 6 point lead at the top opening up for Hemel Hempstead with St Albans Ladies in 2nd seeing their FA Cup match away to FAWNL side Cambridge City Ladies called off due to the weather.
Northwood Ladies have made a slow start to the season 2 draws and a loss from their opening 3 matches, tasted victory for the first time this season at home to bottom side Hitchin Belles on Sunday. Emma Steele scoring a brace with 4 more players opening their accounts for the season, Leanne Jones, Scarlet Keightley, Emma Marshall and Honor Cantrell with a goal on her first appearance for the club.
Northwood Ladies (photo credit Northwood Ladies)
Royston Town Women Development also winning at home at the weekend to collect their first win in Beds & Herts Women’s Division one following promotion. Taking on Houghton Athletic Ladies benefited from thier 1st teams FA Cup game away to Ipswich Town Women getting called off due to the heavy rainfall. Able to call upon the services of striker Joanne Rutherford who netted a brace in the match their were goals too for Samantha Edgar and Jazmin Racher in a 4-1 win. Emily Watson scoring for Houghton Athletic.
Hartham United Ladies awarded the home win against Letchworth Garden City Eagles.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Garston Ladies Vintage Purples leading the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two table going into the weekend were away to AFC Kempston & Bedford College Ladies. An unbeaten start to the season for Garston as they look to bounce back to Division One at the first attempt. Kempston & Bedford with 1 win so far this season seeing an injury to one of their players lead to last weekends game against AFC Dunstable Blues. A close contest between the pair a goal conceded late in the game enough to see the 3 points won going the way of the visitors, Haleena Gill making her first appearance for Kempston & Bedford scoring on her debut to see them continue their 100% winning start, Garston losing their unbeaten record.
That result sees new leaders in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two with Langford Ladies taking over at the top continuing their impressive start to the season the newly promoted side making it 4 wins from 4. At home this Sunday taking on Evergreen Ladies. Langford emerging 4-2 victors with Rebecca Reeve on target for a brace. Amber Clark scoring too with her 7th of the season with Sophie Bounds also on the scoresheet with her first of the season. Rebecca Freeman and Hollie Holden with their first goals for the campaign for Evergreen Ladies.
Having forfeited their opening two league matches of the season Bedford Ladies Development were in league action for the first time this season as they played host to Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies in Division Two this Sunday. Alicja Olszanska scoring her first Bedford goal hitting 4 past the keeper with Charlotte Demmon getting a goal too in a comfortable 5-1 win, her first of the season too.
For the 2nd weekend in a row AFC Dunstable Ladies Blues saw a match abandoned due to injury to an opposition player. Were taking on Sherrardswood Ladies the visitors leading in the match with Rhiana Rose lobbing the keeper to put them 1 up. On 67th minutes however Sherrardswood goalkeeper Shayna Godin was hurt in a collision with a Dunstable forward a wait for an ambulance the match abandoned. Glad to report Shayna Godin is Okay and wish her a speedy recovery.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
New sides Harvesters Ladies and Herts Vipers Women both making a 100% winning start to the season, Harvesters leading the way with 4 wins from 4, Herts Vipers one behind winning their opening 3 games. With Harvesters sitting out this weekends games Herts Vipers knew a positive result would see them overhaul them at the top of the Division Three table. At home were taking on Buntingford Town Ladies themselves losing their opening 3 games. Herts Vipers proving a strong side early on scoring plenty of goals so to again this Sunday as they rattled in a double figure win. Selin Burukgiray making her first appearance for Herts Vipers this season enjoying her debut in women’s football celebrating 5 goals including a 1st half hat-trick. Top scorer Nicole Jancey also celebrating a hat-trick to move onto 14 for the season. 5 more players on the scoresheet in a 13-0 win with Tazmin Symonds Bishop, Kelsey Millen and Amy Jo Hebborn all opening their accounts with Rebecca Edge and Lucy Sende also getting their names on the scoresheet.
A big win too for Biggleswade United Ladies 3rd in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three table away to Flitwick Eagles Ladies on Sunday. The visitors with a strong start to the game scoring 4 goals a flurry in the 2nd half adding a further 8 goals to see Biggleswade finish on 12 without reply, 4 goals each for Leeanne Davison and Kayleigh Saunders her first goals for Biggleswade. Tashai Simms also collecting her first Biggleswade goals netting a brace in the game with Zoe Molloy also scoring two. Biggleswade winning 3 out of their 4 opening league matches 3 points back from the leading pair.
A similar record to start the season too for Kempston Rovers Ladies also on 9 points winning 3 of their opening 4 matches in Division Three. On the road this weekend taking on Evergreen Eagles. Ellie Newberry-Bierton scoring her first ever hat-trick for Kempston Rovers their were goals too for Zoe Trinder her 5th of the season and a first Kempston Rovers goal for Hoffi Pursey. Kempston Rovers coming away with a 5-1 win to remain well placed on the table.
A meeting between 5th ad 6th at the weekend as Bedwell Rangers Ladies hosted Hitchin Town Ladies Reserves. A encouraging start to the season for Bedwell Rangers winning 2 of their opening 4 games, Hitchin Town likewise with 6 points on the board awarded one win getting their first competitively last weekend. Meeting this weekend it was Bedwell Rangers with the early lead awarded a free-kick 25 yards out inside the opening 5 minute Maisie Main sending the ball over the keeper to make it 1-0. Hitchin Town looking for a reply an effort ruled out for offside tailing 1-0 at the break the visitors coming back to level early in the 2nd period, April Spang sending the ball home from a tight angle to equalise, both disappointed in the finish to take a share of the points.
Silver End United Ladies continue their fantastic start to the season in the Essex Women’s Division an unbeaten start after 5 games played 3 points clear at the top. The league leaders away to Billericay Town Ladies Development. A first goal of the season for Lauren Hannah midway through the first half seeing the visitors hold a 1-0 advantage at half-time. Rosi Webb on target for her 4th goal of the season winning the 3 points for Silver End United despite a goal for the hosts for Rebecca Gallagher.
Beginning the day a point back from Silver End United Ladies in 2nd spot in the Essex Women’s Premier Division were Chelmsford City Ladies. The hosts winning 3 of their opening four matches taking on Collier Row Tigers who themselves had made an unbeaten start in 3rd a win sending them above Chelmsford into 2nd themselves. All square at half-time with neither sides getting the break through. Collier Row Tigers having the better of the 2nd half taking a 2-0 lead. Chelmsford getting a goal back with 20 minutes left Ciara Meeking with he first goal. As good as it for Chelmsford however as Collier Row finished strongly adding a further 3 goals to win 5-1 to have 10 points from 4 played. Laura Bunton continuing her great form in front of goal to score a hat-trick taking her onto 16 for the season. Emma Harrison also getting a goal for Collier Row along with Morgan Duffield her first for the club.
Match action for Chelmsford City Ladies v Collier Row (photo credit Ian Kendle)
A mixed bag of results for Frontiers Ladies at the start of the season. Close results all in either victory or defeat 2 league looses to dates by a single goal. Put on a strong performance on Sunday to record a comfortable win away to newly promoted Rayleigh Town Ladies. Kay Foy making her first appearance for Frontiers this weekend rattling in 4 goals to open her account. Wasn’t the only one to open her account for the season with Bilge Taspinar getting her first Frontiers goals scoring a brace. Emma Parker and Anna Michaels both on target with their first too in an 8-0 victory to lift Frontier into the top half of the table.
Southend United Ladies travelled to bottom side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies with both still in search of their first win of the season. A opening day draw frustration for Southend in the league since losing their next two matches. In trouble at half-time at Beacon Hill Rovers tailing 1-0 to a Grace Leavett goal Southend came back in the 2nd period to collect their first 3 point haul of the season. Harriet Hiskett scoring for the 4th time this season along with a first goal for Lydia Weekley seeing the visitors clinch a 2-1 win.
Essex Women’s Division One
Corringham Cosmos Women return to the top of Essex Women’s Division One, neck and neck with Aveley Ladies at the start of the season sat out last weekends fixtures to see Aveley make it 4 wins from 4 to go 3 points clear. Aveley’s turn to sit out the fixtures this weekend Corringham Cosmos looking to make it 4 wins from 4 themselves to return to the top of the table were at home to Chigwell Ladies. Michelle Sumpter continuing her good goal scoring form at the start of the season for Corringham Cosmos netting a first half hat-trick to put her on 8 for the season. Molly McCarty making it 4-0 to the hosts with 20 minutes left a first goal of the season for Rebecca Corcoran wrapping up a 5-0 win 10 minutes from the end.
Plenty of goals scored in the other games played in Essex Women’s Division One too, Hutton Ladies Reserves scoring 5 away from home taking on Runwell Sports Ladies. Wasn’t enough however as Runwell Sports rattled in 7 goals up the other end to win their 3rd game of the season to stay 3rd in the table. Mathilda Cant, Rachael Agombar and Frances Murphy all scoring their first goals of the season for Hutton, Agombar and Murphy both hitting a brace. Three players bagging a brace for Runwell Sports, Marie Barker, Ashley Debnam and Rachael Selfe with her first two goals of the season. Anna Winfield also celebrating her first goal of the season.
A more comfortable win at home for Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves consolidating 4th spot in the Essex Women’s Division One table with an 8-1 home win over Chelmsford City ladies Reserves at the weekend. 7 points collected now from their last 3 games after losing on the opening day away to Corringham Cosmos.
2nd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup this weekend, 48 ties in total scheduled on Sunday with the FAWNL Division One sides entering the competition. 13 of those ties involving sides covered by Women’s Football East. The weather playing it’s part putting pay to 3 ties with the matches between Norwich City Women & Cambridge United WFC, Ipswich Town Women & Royston Town Women along with Cambridge City Ladies v St Albans Ladies called off with waterlogged pitches. That left 10 ties and it was to one of these I travelled on Sunday the rain all but gone as I arrived at the Harlow Arena to watch Harlow Town Ladies v Wroxham Women.
The pair currently one and two in the ERWFL Premier Division promised to be a cracking tie and proved to be the case with a late winner deciding it in extra-time. Harlow starting brightly Becky Shephard firing in a rocket to make it 1-0 early on. The hosts dominant during the first half Wroxham taking a while to get going soaking up pressure got themselves back on level terms late in the half striker Grace Birchall running onto a long ball forwards to run in behind race into the box and smash her shot into the bottom corner.
Grace Birchall finishes into the bottom corner for Wroxham to level the scores
All square at the break Harlow beginning the 2nd half as they started the first on the front foot. Chloe Bassett with a strike from outside the area creeping inside the post to see the hosts retake the lead. Wroxham made changes to personnel and position paying off as they started to come back into it more competitive the game opening up chances created Emily Leach on the keeper coming away with the ball to score into an empty net to make it 2-2. Neither side able to find the break through 3rd goal in regular play the game heading to extra-time.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
In the extra period of play it was advantage Wroxham going ahead for the first time in the match Birchall brought down just outside the area a free-kick inside the D blasted goalwards a deflection taking it wide of the the keeper giving no chance a save. Harlow fired up particularly captain Kaydee King to get back on level terms a free-kick similar to Wroxham’s seeing goalkeeper Amy Bell produce a tremendous save Harlow though scoring from the resulting corner. Sent long past the far post King getting her head on the ball sending it in despite a goalmouth scramble. 3-3 after the 1st period of extra-time Harlow finishing the game strong getting players in and around the Wroxham box taking strikes on from distance Fran Gamble shooting from 20 yards out left side of the box firing the ball in late on to send Harlow into the next round.
Another all ERWFL clash in 2nd Round Qualifying saw Division One North side Newmarket Town Women at home to Luton Town Ladies from the league above. The Premier Division side amongst the front runners in the table. Zara Carroll the star of the show first half scoring a hat-trick for Luton getting the ball rolling heading in from a Jess McKay corner. Her 2nd goal coming from a free-kick the ball smashed into the top corner. Carroll completing her hat-trick scoring from another McKay corner. Luton safely through in the finish scoring a 4th goal with Funmi Babalola on target following good work from Dionne Manning.
A couple of upsets in the amongst the results too. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies showing good form since promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division this season were drawn away to FAWNL South West Division One side Maidenhead United Women. The Essex side getting an early lead 1-0 inside 10 minutes Ebony Moore with the run down the wing crossing in the ball turned into the back of the net for an own goal. More than matching their higher league opponents goalkeeper Violet Hickman with a crucial double save to keep it at 1-0. Bowers & Pitsea with a good chance to double the lead early 2nd half remained 1-0 as Maidenhead came on strong, the lead doubled midway through the half Sophie Dowman’s strike deflected to loop over the keeper and in. A nervy close to the game the hosts pulling it back to 2-1 off a free-kick that struck the crossbar the rebound back in off the keeper Bowers & Pitsea holding on to win and extend their historic FA Cup run.
A cup upset to for East Midlands Regional Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies knocking out FAWNL South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women. A sluggish start from Peterborough with Stevenage having the better of the opening period growing into it however the visitors when ahead on the half hour Keir Perkins cross met by Donna McGuigan an ex-Stevenage player to make it 1-0. That the advantage at the break. Peterborough creating opportunities in the 2nd half, Stevenage goalkeeper Te’a Oldroyd with some fine saves the hosts creating chances themselves striking the bar equalised in the 65th minutes Cara Breckenridge scoring after Peterborough failed to clear a corner. Both sides looking for the winner it came 10 minutes from tine Perkins crossing in again this time met by Megan Parrett to smash the ball into the roof of the net to win it 2-1 and send Peterborough into the next round.
Megan Parrett with Stevenage’s Gemma Biggadike getting the winner for Peterborough United Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Elsewhere it was relatively straight forwards for the FAWNL South East Division One sides with 5 beating lower league opposition. One all South East Division One tie saw Kent Football United hosting Actonians Ladies. Due to meet in the league the week before the weather putting pay to the fixture. A tough start to life at the higher level for Kent Football United without a point on the board after 4 played the FA Cup a distraction. Started brightly enough Actonians coming into it getting the lead midway through the first period with Carla Williams striking to make it 1-0 her first of the season. A 2nd goal coming 5 minutes later with midfielder Melia D-Santos also scoring her first of the season. A 2-0 lead for the visitors at half-time a mountain to climb for Kent Football United on the hour as Megan Burrows received her marching orders sent off. Actonians 3-0 up soon after Lafa Ucha scoring from a corner. Kent Football United kept going and were rewarded with a goal late in the game Amy Russ firing in a shot with 10 minutes left. Actonians progressing into the next round 3-1 winners.
The FA Cup throwing up names you’re not always familiar with apparently their are two Ashford sides one in Middlesex the other in Kent. AFC Wimbledon Ladies were away to the one in Kent this weekend Ashford Ladies. Wimbledon 4th in South East Division One getting the upper hand on their lower league opponents taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Georgia Heasman crossing for Liz O’Callaghan to score her first goal of the season. Quickly became 2-0 with defender Hannah Billingham scoring from a corner again her first of the season. Wimbledon creating chances going further in front on the half hour Sophie Manzi with a low strike to make it 3-0. Heasman another to open her account for the season seeing Wimbledon leading 4-0 at half-time. Katie Stanley and youngster Charlotte Flood introduced at half-time both going on to score Flood her first goals for the side netting a brace with Stanley making it 7-0 to see Wimbledon safely into the next round.
Enfield Town Ladies were hosting lower league opposition Islington Borough Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. The FAWNL South East Division One side going in front with the half hour fast approaching defender Claire Ford scoring to make it 1-0 with her first of the campaign. Striker Katherine Long doubling the advantage with 5 minutes left in the first period. The lead made more comfortable midway through the 2nd half with Danielle Smith opening her Enfield account for the season. Long scoring a 2nd and her fifth of the season late in the game to see Enfield comfortably progress.
A tough test for Phoenix Sports Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup as they travelled to Canvey Island FC to play AFC Basildon Women. The game was off at one point but soon back on and good for Basildon as the Essex side won comfortably to reach the next round going through 8-2 winners. Kelly Wealthall in good form in front of goal since joining the club scoring a hat-trick to give her 9 for the season. Cerys Adams scoring a brace her first goals for the side. First goals of the season too for Sarah Wilson and Grace Gillard along with a goal for Holly Turner.
Leyton Orient WFC joint 3rd leaders in the FAWNL South East Division One away to Abingdon United WFC in the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday. Flu hitting the squad Leyton Orient with a small squad of 12 making a slow start Abingdon taking the lead with Molly Lygo firing in a long range strike. Egle Trezzi with the equalising goal midway through the first half from a corner. Leyton Orient growing stronger as the game progressed taking the lead with 7 minutes left in the first half Sophie Le Marchand curling in a shot. A 3rd scored in the final minute of the half, Otesha Charles continuing her good form in front of goal to make it 3-1 at half-time. Charles with her 8th goal of the season 10 minutes into the 2nd half seeing Leyton Orient into the next round 4-1.
Billericay Town Ladies sharing the lead in FAWNL South East Division One drawn away to Dartford Women in 2nd Round Qualifying. The Essex side with goalscorers throughout their side proving too strong an opponent for Dartford winning comfortably 8-0 to book their place in the next round. Both Zoe Rushen and Karissa Rodney netting two goals each now on 7 goals each for the season. Jay Blackie with her 5th of the season too getting a goal with first goals of the season for Hannah Smith, Ellie Nicholls and Courtney Lumley.
Women’s FA Cup 3rd Round Qualifying draw
ties to be played Sun 27th October
Peterborough United Ladies v The New Saints Ladies
Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies
Harlow Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Cambridge City Ladies or St Albans Ladies v AFC Basildon Women
Ipswich Town Women or Royston Town Women v Norwich City Women or Cambridge United WFC
Three games played in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday all featuring the sides in the bottom half of the table… at least at the start of play. Colney Heath Ladies the big movers in the league up form 7th to 3rd in the table after bringing a end to a run of three straight defeats in league and cup. Were at home this Sunday up against Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies who were themselves keen to get a positive result after letting slip a 2 goal lead in the cup a fortnight ago and 3-0 in the league last week in the last 10 minutes respectfully to lose and draw.
Colney Heath with the opening goal on 10 minutes Christina Freestone playing in Samiara Khan to shoot under the advancing keeper. Wymondham keeping Colney Heath from adding further goals first half equalising late in the half Hannah Water through to make it 1-1 in the 43rd minute. All square at the break. A bright start to the 2nd half from Colney Heath retaking the lead in the 58th minute striker Riane Townsend-Brown fouled inside the box. Lucy Hancock sending the keeper the wrong way to put the hosts 2-1 up. Wymondham with chances to level before Townsend-Brown taking on a shot from the top of the box finds the top corner to put Colney Heath 3-1 with 15 minutes left to play and secure all 3 points and with the top half sides not in league action this weekend Colney Heath muscle their way in amongst them to sit 3rd.
A first win of the season for newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies winning their first game at this level last weekend away to AFC Dunstable Women. At home this weekend were taking on Bedford Ladies looking to build on that result. The visitors with 2 wins from their opening 5 league games knowing a win would put them on the tails of the sides battling for position in the top half of the table. The sides pleased to earn a point each in the finish 1-1 the final score with captain Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring her first of the season for St Ives and Lauren Murray on target with her first for Bedford who can thank there keeper for some fantastic saves to prevent St Ives adding more goals the visitors finishing with 10, Mathilda Fidler sent off.
A tough start to the season for both Haringey Borough Women and AFC Dunstable Women both without a point on the board after their opening 5 games respectfully with some eye watering defeats too, something had to give this weekend as they met for the first time this season. Haringey the hosts having the better of a wind affected game held the advantage first half Dunstable coming back in the 2nd to earn a point close to winning it in a high scoring match with both sides netting 4 goals! First point on the board for both much needed, Louise McCay with a brace for Dunstable. Dionne Umeh also on target with a goal and Lori Wilson-Phillips from the penalty spot.
ERWFL Division One North
The heavy rain that fell over night and long into Sunday particularly focused in Norfolk and the surrounding area, in fact a total wipe out of fixtures in Norfolk in the end. Just 1 of the 3 games scheduled for Sunday in the ERWFL Division One North surviving. League leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development at home to fellow Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. Cambridge City looking to build on their fantastic start a 100% record 3 wins from 3 following promotion to the league. The hosts getting off to a greet start Molly White setting up Bella Simmons to score on 6 minutes. Simmons scoring another just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0 her 7th goal of the season. A 2-0 lead for Cambridge City at half-time they kept Histon at bay up the other end to continue their perfect start to the season and open up a 6 point lead at the top of the table.
Bella Simmons on target for 7 goals this season so far for Cambridge City Ladies Development
ERWFL Division One South
New leaders in ERWFL Division One South this week with Essex side Hutton Ladies taking over from Stevenage Women Development who saw their game at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies off due to a waterlogged pitch. Hutton continuing their excellent start to the season a 100% record which now stands and 4 wins from 4 in the league. Scoring plenty of goals too with 30 coming from those games. A high scoring win at home against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this weekend. A double figure score Hutton winning 10-1 to collect the 3 points. Vicky Kinsman continuing her great scoring form hitting 6 of those goals into the back of the net on Sunday to have 17 to her name after just 5 games played. Lauren Knight with a brace with a goal each for Sally Appleton and Carley Brewster on her Hutton debut. Lauren Hasler wit the goal for Hoddesdon.
Millwall Lionesses at home on Sunday continued their unbeaten start to the season with a win against Wodson park Ladies. A great start to the match for Millwall Princess Elisery heading in from a corner in the 5th minute. The lead doubled within the opening 10 minutes Cansu Mentash first to ball from another corner to score to make it 2-0. Millwall 3-0 to the good a minute later Samantha Middleton getting onto the end of Shannan Drewe’s cross to find the back of the net. Millwall doing the damage from their corner routines a 4th goal coming courtesy of Katie Klosinski with just 17 minutes played. Drewe getting on the score sheet with 37 minutes played to see Millwall end a dominant first half period leading 5-0. Sian Fitzpatrick adding a 6th goal 10 minutes into the first half. Comfortable at 6-0 Wodson Park getting a consolation goal with 4 minutes left.
A limited fixture list in the FAWNL this weekend with the South East Division One sides beginning their FA Cup campaign, there were three league matches in the Southern Premier Division and one FAWNL Plate 1st Round tie.
In the Southern Premier Division with the top two not in action an opportunity for those below to close the gap. Watford FC Ladies hosting Oxford United Women. Both sides with good opportunities to open the scoring it remained goalless for the opening half hour. The hosts going ahead in the 34th minute Katie O’Leary with the finish netting her 3rd goal of the season to make it 1-0 curling the ball into the bottom corner. Adekite Fatuga-Dada finishing inside the box in first half stoppage time to see Watford head in 2-0 up.
Seven minutes into the 2nd half and Watford build on their lead Fatuga-Dada setting up Leanne Bell to score. Oxford creating opportunities themselves getting it back to 3-1 with Emily Allen scoring close to the hour. Cue then a potential goal of the season Watford scoring straight from the kick-off to restart play, Emma Beckett rushing in to strike the ball in the middle launching it forwards to fly over the keeper not back on her line and land in the goal beyond 4-1 Beckett celebrating her first Watford goal. All action Oxford pull a goal back again moments later Allen on target for her 2nd of the game. The visitors press for more goals Watford defending adding a 5th goal with 5 minutes left Beckett’s free-kick striking the crossbar Fatuga-Dada there t head in the follow-up. Watford up to 3rd joining Cardiff City Ladies on 13 points.
A strong start to the season for Yeovil Town Women winning 3 on the bounce in league and cup went on to lose back to back matches with 2 successive draws to follow 5th in the Southern Premier Division table got back to winning ways this Sunday at home to Gillingham FC Ladies. It was the Kent side who would take an early lead 1 up after 3 minutes. Yeovil starting slow coming on as the half wore on equalising midway through the 1st period captain Annie Heatherson heading in across goal to make it 1-1 her 5th of the season. 1-1 at the break Yeovil with a strong 2nd half to secure the 3 points Sarah Wiltshire reaching double figures for the season netting her 10th goal to put Yeovil into the lead soon after the restart. Heatherson scoring her 2nd of the game on the hour to extend the lead was quickly followed by a 4th goal Laura Williams with her first of the season firing in from long range. Wiltshire and Williams both going on to score a 2nd goal to see Yeovil win the match 6-1.
A mixed season so far for Portsmouth FC Women good results in the cup whilst winning just 1 of their 3 opening league fixtures. A trip to newly promoted Keynsham Town Ladies this Sunday who themselves were without a point from 4 played bottom of the table. The visitors opening the scoring in the 10th minute with Charmaine True finishing from Rosie McDonnell’s cross. Rebecca Beth quickly making it 2-0. Within a minute Keynsham getting it back to 2-1. Bath on target with her 2nd of the 2nd of the match midway through the first half seeing Portsmouth into a 3-1 lead. That the score at half-time. Keynsham battling back to make it 3-2 on the hour was a good as it was going to get for the hosts Portsmouth strong in the final 20 minutes Tamsin De Bunsen scoring to make it 4-3 in the 70th minute. Jade Widdows finishing from 12 yards making it 5-2 on 78. A clash of heads seeing Portsmouth forced to replace their goalkeeper Mel Burn, defender Jazmin Younger going between the sticks. Portsmouth ending strong adding a further 2 goals in stoppage time with De Bunsen netting her 2nd of the game and Bath completing a hat-trick to see the game won 7-2.
FAWNL Plate
One game from the first round of the FAWNL Plate to report on this week. Plymouth Argyle Ladies looking to continue their excellent league form which sees them 2nd in the Southern Premier Division away to South West Division One side Buckland Athletic Ladies. A scrappy start Buckland Athletic taking the lead in the 10th minute Sarah Stacey heading in under the crossbar. Plymouth responding straight away to level Jessie Jones through on goal to score. The visitors applying pressure then chances created Zoe Cunningham crossing for Natasha Knapman to make it 2-1 on the half hour. A 3rd goal quick to follow with Cunningham getting on the scoresheet following a goal mouth scramble her first of the season. Helen Bleazard seeing Plymouth into a 4-1 at the break. Knapman with her 13th goal of the season putting Plymouth 5-1 up early in the 2nd half the visitors comfortable Cunningham scoring twice in the last 10 minutes getting a hat-trick in a 7-1 victory to see Plymouth safely through to the 2nd Round.
FA Cup weekend a trip down to Essex this Sunday to watch a game from 2nd Round Qualifying of the competition Harlow Town Ladies setting the early pace in the ERWFL Premier Division hosting another potential title challenger Wroxham Women.
Some 48 ties set to be played this Sunday however with plenty of rain falling across the country overnight several games called of pitches waterlogged. Today’s venue the Harlow Arena with a 3G playing surface meant the match would survive.
An intriguing tie in prospect Harlow Town Ladies starting the season well into their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL Premier Division have risen rapidly through the women’s football pyramid in recent seasons. Plenty of young talent to call upon backed up by a strong Reserves side last season, now just the senior side manager Dean Perrett bringing in several players to strengthen the squad and add experience with the likes of Hannah Porter, Nicole Farmer, Georgia Box and Amy Nash coming in having played higher league placed Essex sides AFC Basildon and Billericay Town in the past. Becky Shephard joining too a potent goal threat wherever she’s played most recently with Cambridge United WFC. Top of the ERWFL Premier Division in what will be a strong league once again. Unbeaten in 5 played with 4 win including a 4-1 away win over today’s cup opponents.
Had hoped to see Wroxham Women in the previous round of the FA Cup but circumstances conspired against me. Wroxham are a new name for a familiar side in the ERWFL Premier Division having previously been Acle United Women enjoying plenty of success under that guise the time was right to move on Wroxham showing an interest in wanting to get involved in the women’s game the partnership boosting the club going forwards having come so close to winning the Premier Division in recent seasons and with it promotion to the FAWNL. Will be amongst the title challengers again having retained most of their squad whilst bringing in Victoria Pleavin from Norwich City Women, Kayleigh Holloway from ERWFL Premier Division rivals Wymondham Town Ladies and Bethany Bygrave a former Tasmanian Football of the Year. Currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division table losing one of their opening 5 games as previously highlighted. Reached today’s 2nd Round Qualifying match wit a stunning comeback at home to local rival Wymondham 2-0 down with 9 minutes to go getting back to 2-2 with Amber Rowland slotting in the winner from the penalty spot.
The Harlow Arena today’s venue, heavy rain falling for much of the journey games elsewhere getting called off, more or less stopped past Cambridge, dry by the time I arrived dark clouds still around but the sun trying to poke through. A bar and hot food available under the main seated stand with a covered terraced stand opposite. A 3G playing surface A fairly easy venue to get too with plenty of parking.
Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Josie Burke, Nicole Farmer, Beth Chambers, Hannah Porter, Kaydee King (C), Fran Gamble, Chloe Bassett, Lucy Edmeades, Amy Nash, Becky Shephard & Liv Steele. Subs – Charlie Orwell, Harriet Lethbridge, Abbey Dell, Eve Doyle-Love, Ronnie Harrison & Jodie Sanderson.
Wroxham Women starting XI – Amy Bell, Anna Larkins (C), Victoria Pleavin, Grace Parker, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Kate Pasque, Kayleigh Holloway, Naomi Cooper, Grace Birchall & Emily Leach. Subs – Bethany Bygrave, Kirstie Kindred. Olivia Mungham-Gray & Leanne Symonds.
The teams into huddles before kick-off a cry of ‘AHOY!’ from Wroxham quickly followed by a roar of ‘HARLOW!’ from the hosts it’s Wroxham to get the 1st half underway wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Harlow wearing red shirts with a white front, red shorts and socks. The ball pressed right from the word go Harlow in to close Wroxham little head way made by either side in the opening exchanges play congested in midfield. Wroxham with a throw right side gain ground without getting a cross in the ball played back left to run on for the keeper to gather, Grace Birchall in attack for Wroxham sharp races in forcing goalkeeper Josie Burke into a save down to take at her feet before she can pounce.
Harlow with an opportunity to play a ball into the box players forwards as they win a free-kick 35 yards out as Fran Gamble is fouled bringing the ball on. On the left a good delivery in from Amy Nash flighted in towards the far post Amy Bell in goal for Wroxham with a solid punch of the ball to get it away. A good start to the game from Harlow players all over the park quick to close down and press the Wroxham defence. Nash with a great crossfield pass to find Lucy Edmeades on the right wing takes the ball on to the by-line sending a cross in collected cleanly by Bell at her near post.
GOAL! Harlow’s good start capitalised upon with a goal a great strike from Becky Shephard to give the hosts the lead 6 minutes into the game. Picking up the ball central 35 yards out no one comes to close her down encouraged to shoot shifts the ball before letting fly the ball arrowing in past the keeper to make it 1-0.
Becky Shephard with the opening goal for Harlow Town Ladies
Harlow press play turned around win the first corner of the game on the right delivered near post players up goes through everyone to drop across goal no one to attack far side Wroxham clear. Wroxham not seeing much of the attack early doors gain ground on the left wing the ball played inside for striker Emily Leach has to dig the shot out of her feet 25 yards out on target lacking the power to trouble Burke.
Harlow continue their high tempo pressing game getting players forwards passing quickly Nash putting Shephard away on the left wing into space squares in a cross along the top of the Wroxham area, Chloe Shields clearing for the away side the ball picked up by Gamble central drives in a low shot from 25 yards out, Bell down to push the ball wide. Harlow spreading play well Hannah Porter winning it at the ball has options up field Beth Chambers racing up the left wing from full back a good pass to pick her out lays it forwards for Shephard ahead of her the ball travelling quickly on the 3G surface Shephard despite a lunging dive can’t keep it in play.
Amy Nash (under the flying pony tail) getting hold of the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
Wroxham captain Anna Larkins playing right back reads the danger well across central to nip in front to win the ball from attacker Liv Steele as a great through ball from Gamble almost has her in on goal. Harlow quicker to the ball, Wroxham not getting any momentum frustrated on the back foot. Attacks broken up before they get going Harlow quick to turn play around Edmeades right with an early ball on into the area Nash having made a near post run looking to take the shot in through her stride a defender on her shoulder doesn’t connect with the ball.
Harlow Town Ladies, Liv Steele
Shephard challenging for the ball 25 yards out getting free on the left to chase down the wing fires a cross in central Shields defending again getting to the ball ahead of Steele in front of goal. Wroxham having to work hard to get anything going in attack, Amber Rowland in strong to win it central rolls it forwards into Birchall holding off her marker left side in front of goal spins well to lay the ball on for fellow attacker Emily Leach, Porter in to win the ball back for Harlow.
Harlow Town Ladies, Hannah Porter
Larkins down after a challenge from Steele play goes on with Wroxham in attack Birchall in the final 3rd on her own taking players on doing well to win a throw high on the right. Kayleigh Holloway receiving the ball off the throw dribbles on towards the area her low cross driven in cut out put behind by Chambers for Wroxham’s first corner of the game. The delivery put in high safely caught by Burke unchallenged on her line.
Harlow on the attack players breaking left and right as Gamble wins the tackle to break up Wroxham’s build up possession in the final 3rd Harlow have Wroxham penned in a cross played in cleared straight to Chloe Bassett right side of the area her shot fired in with power 25 yards out blocked the ball on the right whipped into the box deflected behind for the corner. The delivery in high near post Porter up heads it on down central Steele their doesn’t get a clean connection on her shot six yards out. Bassett with another shooting opportunity a few minutes later 25/30 yards out right sees her effort race wide across goal. Harlow with the upper hand quicker to everything.
The hosts winning a free-kick wide right outside the box more or less a corner as Nash comes across to take players forwards captain Kaydee King amongst them gets a glancing header on the ball enough to deflect it back to Bassett waiting far side inside the box lines up to shot through bodies low back across goal narrowly wide of the post. Porter goes for a foray up the pitch no one from Wroxham challenging until she threatens to get in past the back line into the area itself. Bassett seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out plays a great a ball on into the area for Edmeades to attack racing in from the right wing, just too much on it allowing Bell to come and claim.
Gamble fouled top of the circle inside the Wroxham half players go forwards the ball short wide to Chambers left side comes infield preparing to strike a fantastic block… probably not what referee Callum Dorling intended. A drop ball the result these no longer contested. Pleavin with a great intercepting tackle to stop Edmeades getting clear on the right for Harlow. Wroxham need to get something going in attack have soaked up alot of pressure the ball fired up to halfway Birchall doing well to stay on her feet after a tackle takes the ball forwards a strong run into the area draws defenders to her squares the ball to Leach unmarked central hit’s it hard, Burke with the blocking save to keep the ball out at close range the rebound taking the ball out of the area Naomi Cooper gather left to shoot from outside the box sends her shot over the bar.
Wroxham Women’s, Victoria Pleavin
Late into the first half Harlow becoming a little loose with their passing Wroxham applying a little bit of pressure Birchall with Porter on halfway a coming together that sees the defender down injured the advantage with Harlow though play goes on getting bodies up into the final third.
GOAL! The attack broken up Wroxham send the ball long up to Birchall into the space Porter would have been occupying had she not still been down Birchall racing away from King to carry the ball with pace into the box right of goal Farmer almost getting there as she strikes the ball low and fast across the keeper into the bottom corner to level the scores 1-1.
Grace Birchall finishes into the bottom corner for Wroxham to level the scores
Birchall celebrating is then shown a yellow card presumably for a foul on Porter prior the the counter attack. Harlow having been strong all through the first half have an opportunity straight from the restart to retake the lead direct play Shephard receiving the ball central in for Steele one on one win the advancing keeper top of the area looks to shot across Bell, the goalkeeper down saves well with her legs. The last opportunity of the 1st half going to Wroxham, Leach controlling the ball 25 yards out sending her shot wide across goal.
Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 1-1 Wroxham Women
The scores all square at 1-1 at half-time. Harlow starting well and taking an early lead continued to dominate pressing Wroxham all over the pitch quicker to the ball and releasing players early didn’t add to that lead however and Wroxham having few opportunities took one late in the half to equalise, know there’s room for improvement. The scores level remains all to play for 2nd half.
Harlow out of the changing rooms early for the 2nd half no changes for either side the hosts getting the 2nd game underway the game to go to extra-time even penalties if needed has to be decided on the day. Harlow beginning as they started the first half on the front foot pushing deep into Wroxham territory winning a throw on the right.
GOAL! Farmer looking to play the ball on the defence pressured right the ball cleared picked up by Bassett outside the box left of the D strikes her shot well, Bell static central the shot wide of her creeping inside the post 2-1. Harlow retake the lead.
Chloe Bassett with the strike to see Harlow retake the lead
Harlow’s pressing game effective in on Wroxham’s defenders early making playing out from the back difficult the midfield forced deeper as a result. Bassett and Gamble breaking thing’s up effectively as they had for much the first half. Harlow attack overlapping on the left the cross in vicious across the face of goal long as Bell scrambles across her line Steele up on the right side into the box getting to the ball looks to smash her shot back in across goal. Bell with a superb save her momentum taking her one way to get back the other to flash out a glove to deflect the ball away from goal.
Amber Rowland with the ball for Wroxham
A corner conceded on the left taken short by Harlow back to the taker coming higher to cross the delivery spot on King getting her head on the on the ball put straight at Bell for a comfortable save. Harlow on the offensive switch play Shephard running clear beating the keeper left in attack sees her shot come back off the far post. Wroxham respond an early change 2nd half Pleavin off with Kirstie Kindred on to join Leach in attack with Birchall moving left side Cooper dropping into defence.
Is a physical game between two competitive opponents. Larkins, Porter and King needing treatment in the first half, Pasque and Parker for Wroxham getting clattered in the 2nd period. A cruncher of a 50/50 between Cooper and Farmer sees both hurt. Birchall fouled left side top of the circle a chance to relieve the early Harlow pressure players go forwards with Parker over the ball a high ball into the area headed clear Harlow look to counter quickly left, Holloway doing the defending to stop the advance for Wroxham.
Grace Birchall looking to get into the box for Wroxham
Larkins with a fantastic ball from the back to release Birchall away on the left the attacker keeping possession well cutting inside allowed to shoot on her stronger foot the ball swerving through the air moving wide across the face of goal wide. The substitutions and movement of players seeing Wroxham start to get a foothold in their opponents final third and for the first time in the game have a period of sustained possession in and around Harlow’s area a ball played on sees Birchall charging down King the ball cannoning up into the air inside the box, King keeping her eyes on it to launch clear.
Harlow make their first change Ronnie Harrison coming on to replace Farmer. The substitute with a great run forwards lays the ball on for Bassett breaking through the centre one on one with the keeper bearing down towards the area Bell commits to the floor diving left as Bassett looks to take the ball around her the goalkeeper, stretching out an arm managing to pluck the ball away from her feet. The danger now cleared players rushing forwards the ball loose gathered on the left Bell up but not set the shot fizzed in Larkins has got back to cover the goal successfully intercepts and clears the threat.
Wroxham Women’s captain, Anna Larkins
The game opening up as Wroxham take more risks in search of a 2nd equalising goal. Porter with an ambitious effort from over halfway dipping late as it come into the box Bell pushes away for the corner. The ball put into the box from the right defended the clearance straight to Gamble strikes a shot back into the crowded area takes a wicked deflection Bell however able to catch the sting taken out of the shot as the Harlow bench goes up collectively with shouts of “handball”… play continues.
Harlow with a 2nd change, Steele coming off on comes Abbey Dell. Dell involved straight away getting forwards with the ball on the left crosses into the box for Shephard unable to turn and get a shot away. Gamble smashing a 25 yard strike over the bar as she latches onto a clearance. Bassett next to line up a strike from distance for Harlow, the attempt straight at Bell. Wroxham counter Birchall moving wide Harrison defending well for Harlow. Chambers getting forward left side for Harlow played on by Bassett central shoots from the angle the ball over the crossbar.
A free-kick for Harlow in a dangerous position central 30 yards out, players forwards King over the ball going for goal a curling effort past the wall hasn’t the high a comfortable take for Bell. Dell nip in to win the ball for Harlow central her low strike put straight at the keeper. Wroxham come forwards right side Holloway carrying the ball on 30 yards out coming in field, Kindred taking the ball to hit a shot from distance runs wide of the left post.
GOAL! Wroxham equalise for the 2nd time in the match the ball played up toward the top of the area, Burke down at the feet of Leach the ball popping up and beyond, Leach staying on her feet to run on and send the ball into the empty net beyond 2-2. A little over 10 minutes left to play.
The game opened right up both sides going for it Wroxham sending it long the bounce leaving the Harlow defence static high up as Birchall latches onto the ball races away down the left coming back inside as Harlow get back to defend their area taking the ball across the top of the area no opening for a shot cuts back looking to put in Kindred the pass behind her, lunging to try and retrieve it brings down King the free-kick given. Wroxham making another change Leanne Symonds coming on in place of Leach.
Harlow advance on the right with Dell putting Edmeades away her cross along the top of the six yard box dealt with by Larkins at the far post with Chambers running in from wide. Larkins called into action again, Bell high in her box as Shephard comes on central closing in on the keeper her shot partially saved as Bell takes some of the power of it as it strikes her legs through them on target Larkins round to cover the goal clears the ball up field. Neither side wanting extra-time looking for a winning goal Shephard fizzing a shot from wide left across the face of goal.
A throw conceded deep in the corner on the right t Harlow, Gamble with Dell winning a corner the ball n deep smashed goalwards blocked. A player down needing treatment, Pasque okay to continue after a pause in play. Harlow rallying late on moments left on the clock a free-kick won on the right Edmeades to put in towards the far post Shields defending to head the ball clear for Wroxham.
Full time Harlow Town Ladies 2-2 Wroxham Women
The game goes to extra-time an additional 30 minutes for either side to find a winning goal. Wroxham coming back well 2nd half after conceding an early goal, the game opening up Bell with some vital saves with Harlow stretching the defence at times.
Extra-time
Wroxham to get the first period of extra-time underway. Harlow getting hold of the ball Shephard away left passes inside for Nash 25 yards out has a shot the ball pushed down by Bell, before diving onto it wit Dell rushing in on the follow up.
A marauding run from Birchall right side taking the ball and players on, comes inside across the top of the area looks to set up Kindred central, Birchall though is hauled over as she releases the ball the referee blows up, close to being a penalty instead a free-kick a foot out inside the D.
GOAL! Birchall over it a packed area in front of her strikes it low and hard the ball taking a wicked deflection that Burke can do little about as it races wide of her into the back of the net 2-3. Wroxham leading for the first time in the match. The goal stands despite Harlow complaints the ball was moving as it was struck the breeze strong blowing across the pitch.
Birchall gathering the ball into her feet on halfway drives on into the area taking defenders with her to the right turning well to leave 3 behind to line up a shot, no powers behind the ball Burke down to gather. Dell with a great turn and hit from 30 yards out Bell behind it but spilt throws herself down to smother it with Chambers racing in.
A free-kick for Harlow in half-way the delivery high into the area dealt with by Parker the ball looping back out of the area spinning as Nash goes to hit it causing it to swerve and drop wide of goal. Harlow make a change with Harriet Lethbridge coming on for Nash. A corner won on the right for Harlow the ball in creeps over everyone near side falling for Porter central volleys over must have taken a nick as another corner is awarded.
Harlow pressing the attack the crossbar struck cleared for a corner. Porter off the field for a change of shirt, having collected a bloody nose earlier in the game. The corner taken another near post delivery attacked put across goal cleared Lethbridge to play back in Bell taking it well with Shephard close in.
Shephard sees her shot outside the box blocked by Pasque, handball indicated a free-kick to Harlow inside the D more or less identical to the one that led to Wroxham’s goal. Shephard to strike it hard and low bodies in the way this time to block the ball rebounding out of the area straight to a Harlow shirt a rising shot coming in on target Bell must be unsighted with so many in the box produces a fantastic save throwing herself back to glove the ball away to the right, a corner for Harlow.
GOAL! The pressure from Harlow pays off players stay up field the delivery this time long across the face of goal beyond the far post King getting her head on the ball to knock it down towards goal a scramble on the line to get the ball away but in vain as the goal is given 3-3. The first half of extra-time finishes with the tie all square once again.
A header from Kaydee King levelling it up for Harlow in extra-time
Harlow to get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. Edmeades played through to attack on the right into the box an opportunity to shoot opts instead to square the ball across goal Larkins stepping up to intercept and clear. Harlow regaining possession a snap shot fired over. Dell winning a corner for Harlow, Parker defending for Wroxham sees it put back to taker Edmeades another opportunity to cross deep King up far past a glancing header wide.
Wroxham making a change Olivia Mungham-Gray coming on for Kindred. Birchall away in the right her cross in deflected by King thankfully straight to Burke in the goal beyond. Cooper fouled by King central a free-kick 25 yards out Birchall to strike her effort gloved down and held by Burke.
GOAL! Time running down in the 2nd period of extra-time Harlow are pushing players on swarming around the Wroxham box the ball at the feet of Gamble 20 yards out to the left of the box fired in to nestle in the back of the net and put the hosts back in front 4-3.
Harlow Town Ladies, Fran Gamble
Wroxham behind late on have to come forwards Harlow though have a late rush of energy to close the ball down and keep momentum with them. Shephard taking the ball into the corner. Holloway breaking late for Wroxham no way through as she tries to pick out Birchall, Harlow solid at the back the final whistle goes and players rush onto the pitch to celebrate.
Harlow through to the next round of the Women’s FA Cup, the draw later this Monday. Deserving of the win overall despite making thing’s harder for themselves doing the job in extra-time. On the front foot early in the game getting the goal should probably have gotten more 1st half credit to Wroxham to come back to equalise late on. An early goal 2nd half for Harlow seeing Wroxham come on more and enjoy a better period of attack getting back on level terms to force extra-time and then take the lead themselves. Harlow keep coming though and King headed in to make it 3-3 the hosts prepared to have a strike from distance all game seeing one beat the keeper late on through Gamble to win the tie.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Grace Birchall in attack and Amy Bell with some superb saves doing well for Wroxham. Harlow showing good movement and energy across the pitch, Amy Nash creating several opportunities strong in central midfield, Chloe Bassett close but edged out by Fran Gamble who had a fantastic game in the middle breaking up play getting forwards well and spreading play scoring the winning goal.
A enjoyable cup tie knew it could well be a close one and was, entertaining and the rain held off. My thanks to both sides for the team details as always much appreciated.
