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The Round-Up – FAWNL 08/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 8th September

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

  Crawley Wasps Ladies beginning life in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division as they did the last season winning the FAWNL South East Division One title with ease. 4 wins out of 4 at the start of the campaign to open up a 6 point lead at the top. A 7-1 midweek win away to Chichester City Ladies seeing them go top. Rebecca Carter and Charlotte Owen both scoring a brace Crawley were away again this Sunday taking on 2nd placed Yeovil Town Women. 4 leagues between the sides this time last season, Yeovil making a strong start dropping down to the 3rd tier 3 wins from 3 in league and cup, promised a close game. B

 Both sides coming close to the opening goal, Yeovil clearing off the line from a Crawley corner. Frankie Gibbs saving for Crawley the visitors striking in the final minute of the 1st half to take a lead into the dressing room with Rebecca Carter on target for her 3rd goal of the season. 1-0 to the good Yeovil starting the 2nd half well coming back to level the scores on 53 minute Annie Heatherson finding Sarah Wiltshire to curl a shot past Gibbs into the back of the net, Wiltshire’s 8th goal of the season already. Crawley are equipped to compete at this level and came back to retake the lead attacking midway through the 2nd half captain Naomi Cole brought down outside the box in front of the D, a threat from a set-piece up to take it herself arrowing a shot hard to nestle inside the goal, the winning goal for Crawley to take a 6 point lead.

 Whilst Crawley open up the gap at the top Sunday’s results saw others close the gap to 2nd. Plymouth Argyle Ladies joining Yeovil on 6 points moving into 3rd position with a strong performance at home on Sunday. Opening the season with a loss away to Crawley, the South West side bounced back well to win 2-0 away to Gillingham Ladies last weekend. Back on home soil this weekend were taking on newly promoted Keynsham Town Ladies who had lost their opening two fixtures 2-1 at home to Milton Keynes and on Thursday a narrow 1-0 loss away to Cardiff City.

  Plymouth starting well put in a good performance taking the lead midway through the first half, Jessie Jones brought down inside the box, captain Katie Middleton scoring from the spot. Amber Pollock then setting up two quickfire goals from Kayley Lane and Natasha Knapman with 10 minutes left in the first half saw Plymouth hold a 3 goal advantage at half-time. Knapman making it 4-0 with the game approaching the hour. Keynsham pulling one back as Fabiana Alborghetti netted from distance. The hosts going on to score late in the match Jessie Jones getting on the scoresheet before her shot in the 87th minute with put in on the rebound by Helen Bleazard. Plymouth winning 6-1.

   Plymouth now a host of sides on 6 points with 2nd to 6th all there with 2 wins each, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies making a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two fixtures were away to Gillingham Ladies this Sunday. A win and a loss for Gillingham to start the season like Milton Keynes have brought in several new faces over the summer. A solitary goal separating the sides at half-time, Gillingham 1-0 up after 14 minutes awarded penalty that they themselves admitted as harsh for handball inside the box Jade Keogh stepping up to score. The hosts making the better start to the 2nd half doubling their lead 2 minutes after the restart Georgia Pearch sending in a low shot off the post and in to make it 2-0. Gillingham going on to take control of the game midway through the 2nd half scoring a 3rd with Grace Harrison played through one on one with the keeper, 5 minutes later Harrison scoring again chesting in an Ellie Jeffkins free-kick. Milton Keynes rallying finishing strong, chances created into the last 5 minutes new signing Jessica Driscoll scoring from a free-kick, a 2nd added in the 88th minute with another new recruit Dominika Netschova making it 4-2, not enough as they lose their first league game dropping to 4th, Gillingham joining the top half sides on 6 points.

   Cardiff City Ladies the other side in amongst the top half pack on 6 points recovering from an opening day defeat to Gillingham Ladies to win their next two. Close games all a 1-0 loss to Gillingham, Cardiff winning at home on Thursday evening leaving it late with Kylie Nolan scoring in the 75th minute to seal a 1-0 win against Keynsham Town Ladies. A first league win under their belts the Welsh side making the trip to the north of the capital to face Watford Ladies this Sunday. Jasmine Turner giving Cardiff the lead on 11 minutes lobbing the keeper from 30 yards to make it 1-0. A narrow lead at half-time Cardiff found the back of the net for a 2nd goal 10 minutes into the 2nd half Chloe Lloyd volleying in from outside the box. Watford pushing the visitors hard looking for a reply the Cardiff defence holding firm as they secured the 3 points.

No league game for Portsmouth FC Women since the opening day of the season losing 2-0 at home to Watford, a 2-0 win 7 days later against the same opponents in the FAWNL Cup Determining Round. Playing again this Sunday were at home once again taking on bottom Hounslow Women who themselves were without a point losing their opening two fixtures. Tamsin De Bunsen capitalising on a defensive mix-up to put Portsmouth into the lead inside the opening minute. Portsmouth controlling the early stages without creating a clear cut opportunity. The post struck in the 35th minute, Portsmouth doubling the advantage a minute later with Rebecca Bath striking from distance. A 2-0 lead at half-time Portsmouth were dominant De Bunsen adding a 3rd and her 2nd of the game taking the ball around the keeper to make it 3-0 on 52 minutes. Jade Bradley blasting in a screamer from 30 yards out making it 4-0 on the hour. Portsmouth on top taking control to score 4 more Bath with her 2nd from the penalty spot. Charmaine True brought down for the penalty going on to score a brace, time for an 8th goal 3 minutes from time with substitute Eilidh Currie scoring from inside the box. 

Oxford United Women finally got their league season started this Sunday postponed games seeing them miss out on the opening day and last weekend they were in league action at last at home to Chichester City Ladies this Sunday. The visitors with a difficult start to the season losing their opening 3 league matches. Oxford starting the game well opening the scoring in the 11th minute, Daisy McLachlan joining from Portsmouth cutting in from the left to shoot and find the top corner. A strong spell for the hosts Georgia Timms making it 2-0 in the 18th minute getting on the end of a cross. McLachlan adding her 2nd of the game 2 minutes later in off the post to see Oxford into a 3-0 lead. Emily Allen heading in a goal late in the first half to see Oxford lead 4-0. The hosts continued pressing for further goals 2nd half Lauren Haynes coming closest striking the crossbar. Oxford starting with a win.

FAWNL South East Division One 

Three wins from three to start the new season, Essex side Billericay Town Ladies have started their 2nd season as they did last season following promotion to the FAWNL for the first time. Looking strong again this season in the early stages. Karissa Rodney scoring a hat-trick in their midweek 4-0 win over local rivals AFC Basildon Women. Esme Lancaster also on target. Newly promoted with Crawley Wasps Ladies last season the pair ran away with it at the top Billericay eventually losing ground in the title race finished 2nd some 13 points ahead of the chasing pack. Competitive below the early challengers are starting to emerge.

   Enfield Town Ladies finishing 3rd last season amongst them bolstering their squad over the summer travelled to Billericay this Sunday. Winning 5-1 away to Stevenage Women in midweek also had a player o target for a hat-trick, Beth Lumsden one of their new signings with Nuala McKevitt and Katherine Long also scoring. Two wins and a draw from their opening three fixtures Enfield found themselves trailing to an early goal as Karissa Rodney was on target for her 5th goal of the season. Enfield getting back on level terms with 10 minutes left in the 1st half winning a penalty Beth Lumsden stepping up to score to see the sides level at half-time. Both sides coming close in the 2nd half Grace Brooks saving in goal for Enfield the visitors with a goal ruled out for offside. A point a piece at the final whistle.

Karissa Rodney scoring to put Billericay Town Ladies into the lead (photo credit Nicky Hayes)

Two points dropped for Billericay sees the chasing pack close up Enfield stay 3rd, in between the pair joining Billericay on 10 points are Ipswich Town Women. Opening their season with a draw Ipswich have since won 3 on the bounce although they left it late to win the 3 points this Sunday at home to Actonians Ladies. Ipswich coming into the game off the back of a midweek East Anglian derby win at home to Norwich City Women the game watched by a huge crowd of 761 Ipswich won 4-1. Actonians winning too in midweek playing their rearranged FAWNL Cup Determining Round game with AFC Wimbledon Ladies winning 2-0. 

  Ipswich getting off to a good start at The Goldstar Ground the hosts leading 1-0 inside the opening 10 minutes with Sophie Peskett scoring the goal. Actonians getting through on goal five minutes later denied by Leonie Jackson, the U21s keeper making her 1st senior start. Half-chances after that for both sides Ipswich holding the narrow advantage at half-time. Natasha Thomas firing Ipswich into a 2-0 lead midway through the 2nd half struck the crossbar soon after. Actonians not out of it coming back to make it 2-1 with 12 minutes left Jennifer Laidlaw getting the goal. A dramatic finish to the game Peskett hitting the bar the game into the final 10 minutes. Two minutes left and Actonians were level Caroline Bisson sending the ball home to make it 2-2. A blow for Ipswich they went straight up the other end and a diagonal pass into the area form Zoe Barratt picked out the run of captain Amanda Crump who took it in her stride to slot under the keeper to win the game 3-2.

5 sides remain unbeaten in FAWNL South East Division One and having played a game less than the top two both Leyton Orient WFC and AFC Wimbledon 4th and 5th respectfully are 3 points behind the leading pair. Leyton Orient WFC winning 5-1 at home to Cambridge City Ladies on the opening day were held 1-1 away to Enfield last time weekend. Back at home this weekend were hosting Norfolk side Norwich City Women. The game played at the Breyer Group Stadium the hosts took the lead inside the opening quarter hour Sophie Le Marchand played through to fire home. Leading 1-0 at half-time Leyton Orient created more openings eventually finding a 2nd goal midway through the 2nd half Hayley Barton’s corner headed in by Le Marchand. Into the last 10 minutes and Leyton Orient pressed home their advantage Le Marchand turning provider for Barton to score. Le Marchand smashing in a shot to complete her hat-trick in the 85th minute. 5-0 in the final minute another corner for the hosts put straight in by taker Barton.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting the season with a draw away to Ipswich backed it up with a 2-0 win over Cambridge United WFC. Cup action in midweek were back at home this Sunday taking on Stevenage FC Women. The visitors hitting the woodwork twice early on whilst Te’a Oldroyd keeping goal pulled off some great saves to deny the hosts. Wimbledon taking the lead late in the 1st half getting a goal through captain Katie Stanley to put them 1-0 on 38 minutes. Both sides starting the 2nd half brightly Wimbledon getting their 2nd with 55 minutes played good work from Rosie Russell before Stanley on target with her 2nd of the match. An hour gone and Wimbledon extended their lead to 3 Helen Ogle with a screamer striking the crossbar soon after. Stevenage kept going getting it back to 3-1 with 10 minutes left Louise Godden scoring. Wimbledon straight back with a goal by Sophie Manzi making it 4-1. Stevenage’s tun to get down the other end and score a minute later Amy Makewell making it 4-2 the late fightback not enough Wimbledon with the 3 points.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies captain, Katie Stanley with 2 goals (photo credit Chris Bushe)

AFC Basildon Women have added several new faces to their squad as they begin life back in FAWNL South East Division One. One win so far from their opening 3 league games were beaten 4-0 in midweek by local rivals Billericay Town Ladies. Travelled to Cambridgeshire this Sunday to take on newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies who claimed their 1st league point since promotion in midweek following a 2-2 with their local rivals Cambridge United WFC. Goals from Holly Turner with her 1st of the season and Kelly Wealthall seeing the Essex side leading 2-0 at the break they doubled the tally in the 2nd half winning the game 4-0 with Nicole Learner and Jodie Osborne on the scoresheet with their 1st goals. Their 2nd win of the season putting them into the top half of the table.

Cambridge United WFC getting off the mark with their 1st point of the season away to their Cambridge rivals were back at The Premier Plus Stadium in St Neots this weekend looking for their 1st win of the campaign playing newly promoted Kent Football United the only side without a point now in South East Division One. Captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt getting Cambridge off to a great start scoring at the near post from a corner kick inside the opening 5 minutes. Mollie Coupar nipping in to win steal the ball off the keeper rounding her to put the ball into an empty net making it 2-0 to Cambridge on the half-hour. 2-0 up at half-time a 3rd goal coming in midway through the 2nd half Charlotte Crisp playing the ball through for striker Kelley Blanchflower to score. Kent pulling it back to 3-1 with 20 minutes left Megan Burrows with the goal. Cambridge United WFC with their 1st win of the season up to 7th.

 

Match Report – Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 8th September

ERWFL Premier Division

  A return trip to Peterborough this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier League with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies hosting early leaders Colney Heath Ladies. 

  The standard within the league improving year on year is highly competitive at this level and rarely disappoints in entertainment. Several sides have recruited well over the summer and could will be intriguing to find out who winds up on top. Both of today’s opponents enjoy a good relationship and support from within the wider club. 

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving across to join the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) last season having previously been with the East Midlands regional set-up. A strong outfit pushing towards the top of the league they were among the front runners early on before injuries and lack of numbers took their toll towards the end of the season. A need to recruit and strengthen the first team, they have brought in several new additions with the likes of Kayla Dortch, Kimberly Fairweather, Gabrielle Smith, Eleanor Spendelow and Leah Cudone coming in. The first team backed up by a Reserves side playing in a 13 strong Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season. A last gaps goal seeing them lose 3-2 at home to Luton Town Ladies on the opening day. Bounced back with a 3-0 win away to newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies last time out.

  Colney Heath Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two league games scoring 17 goals in the process to top the ERWFL Premier Division one of 3 sides still with a 100% record. A great performance in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup last Sunday saw them win 3-1 away to fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. Now entering their 3rd season playing at this level have consolidated well and will be looking to push on. A terrific start last season however they fell away badly losing their manager. Paul Gleeson coming in thing’s began to pick up towards the end of last season, have recruited over the summer too with the likes of Jordan Goddard, Rachel Spendlow, goalkeeper Amy Butler and Samaira Khan joining. 

  The Branch Bros Stadium, Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground to the northern end of the city easy to get to. Two large grass area with pitches either side of the main pitch overlooked by the bar and clubhouse on entry. A burger van open to serve hot food and drinks. The pitch with a thick covering of grass two small seated stands available either side of the dugouts. A pleasant day a few dark clouds around but no rain forecast keeping the temperature down, the sun bright when it does poke through.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Evie Driscoll-King, Samantha Davies, Kayla Dortch, Bronwyn Mulheron, Chanade Henderson, Gabrielle Smith, Leah Cudone, Katie Steward & Emma Pollard. Subs – Frances Peeling, Alexa Hunter, Kimberly Fairweather, Eleanor Spendelow & Georgia Coulson.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Lucy Hancock, Samantha May, Catalina Costas, Annie Hickey, Kelly Glynn, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver (C), Samiara Khan, Adi Milton, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Mel Godino & Rachel Sherlow.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Four of the 12 sides in the ERWFL Premier Division play in a black and white strip, Royston, St Ives Town and today’s opponents. Peterborough with home advantage wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and black and white hooped socks lining up as Colney Heath wearing an all blue away kit prepare to kick-off the match. Pressure from the hosts straight away forcing Colney Heath back towards their own box Katie Steward in to pinch the ball central sees it run on in behind Emma Pollard giving chase moving away from goal the angle against her as she gets her foot around the ball her attempt wide of the near post.

Emma Pollard looking to head the ball on for Peterborough

   Peterborough starting brightly Steward in possession on the right controls well before turning inside to fire a cross in along the six yard box no one attacking it central, goalkeeper Lucy Hancock able to gather at the far post. Christina Freestone on the ball central plays it out wide left for Samaira Khan, 5 goals for the winger since joining the club looks to take the ball on tackled by Peterborough’s Evie Driscoll-King the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly inside the Peterborough half attacker Charlene Moreton coming towards the ball heading it on over the top for Rianne Townsend-Brown she sends it wide to her right with Adi Milton looking to get inside her fullback, strong running into the box, goalkeeper and captain Sarah Hudson out well to close her down makes the blocking save at her feet. 

  Driscoll-King putting in a good tackle to deny Khan again on the wing sends a great all up the right for Steward to chase, gathering the ball takes it on before wrapping her foot around the ball to launch a cross into the area, Hancock up well to claim it. Both sides looking to turn the play around quickly Milton almost succeeds in playing Townsend-Brown through central with a well flighted diagonal pass, the striker halted however by a raised flag. 

Kayla Dortch

 Khan stays onside from a free-kick won on the left played forwards the winger squaring a pacey ball along the top of the area finds its way through to Milton far side meets it first time with the outside of her boot the shot in angling away from goal. Peterborough mount a quick attack of their own from front to back the ball through the middle almost has Steward in top of the area but Hancock out well just about does enough to thwart her as her defence recovers to clear the ball. 

Catalina Costas holding of Peterborough’s Katie Steward

  Chanade Henderson getting hold of the ball in the middle for Peterborough plays a great ball forwards for Steward to attack in behind shoulder to shoulder with full back Catalina Costas the Colney Heath defender doing well to get a toe to the ball before Steward to send it wide of goal, then a controversial decision by the referee in the visitors opinion as goalkeeper Hancock goes out towards the ball is warned not to pick it up but does, Colney Heath complaining it wasn’t a back pass an indirect free-kick awarded against them wide of goal near the edge of the six yard box. A crowded penalty area the intention to smash it across the face of goal the Colney Heath defence charge it down and clear successfully.

Peterborough Northern Star’s Chanade Henderson

  An entertaining opening to the match both sides lively, Colney Heath with the slower start coming into it more as captain Sheree Oliver plays the ball forwards to Milton on the right possession retained, a cross lifted into the box, Khan central rising a tall player, can only get a glancing header the ball over at the far post. A delay in play then as a dogs mess is discovered on the pitch, happens at this level now an again. The task of clearing it up usually the home side managers (although I doubt Emma Hayes had this dilemma at Stamford Bridge this afternoon) Dean Steward managing Peterborough armed with a plastic bag clearing up the offending item and play can resume. 

  The free-kick scheduled to take place nearby as Driscoll-King plays a fantastic ball into the box, Hancock in amongst bodies on the penalty spot with a good punch getting it away. Hancock reacting sharply again moments later as a defensive error puts Leah Cudone in behind on the left of attack into the box the goalkeeper rushing out to gather top of the area. Peterborough upping the tempo attacking with more urgency in the last five minutes get control of the ball inside their opponents half Gabrielle Smith showing fantastic close ball control threading a pass forwards for Cudone playing in in to attack the box central Hancock coming to close her down Cudone looks to place her shot wide of the advancing keeper, not enough however as Hancock throws out and arm to stop the ball. 

  Hancock quick to set up the counter attack the ball up to Milton a threat on the right plays the ball on for Townsend-Brown in behind, the defence caught static, Hudson comes out towards her top of the area right of the D, Townsend-Brown sending the ball past her as the pair collide, Kayla Dortch back by then on hand can clear the ball if needed by can see it safely behind only just mind. Neither side on top, both looking like they will find the opening goal Peterborough regain possession central Smith finding her pass again to see fullback Samantha May outnumbered left side of the area as Cudone and Pollard burst forwards the shot fired in across goal into the bottom corner, the goal though doesn’t stand the flag raised against the pair. 

Rianne Townsend-Brown looking to get in behind the Peterborough defence

  Costas has picked up an injury for Colney Heath the full back struggling can’t continue bringing the first change of the match with Rachel Spendlow joining at right back. Peterborough have a corner on the right the delivery short as Cudone spots makes a run towards the ball turning to shoot from 20 yards out her strike over the bar. A mix-up at the back inside the six yard box from the Colney Heath defence sees Cudone latch onto the ball attempting to turn right side to get a shot away the blocking tackle sees the ball cleared falling to Peterborough’s Faith Horner she shoots 25 yards out the ball safely handled straight into Hancock’s midriff.

   Colney Heath attack right Milton winning her side a corner kick the delivery in central headed clear Cudone bringing it away left play a quality pass on for Steward breaking forwards right channel, Sherlow back with her lunging in to make the tackle top of the area to take the ball away from the attacker. 

  GOAL! Half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Peterborough on the attack right side, Driscoll-King having made some good runs forwards previously allowed to go on bringing the ball inside from the top of the area hits it hard sending the ball angling in across the face of goal, finds its way past everyone to nestle into the back of the net 1-0. 

Evie Driscoll-King with the opening goal of the game

   A few robust tackles have been a feature of the first half, Freestone upended by Smith in the middle sees the Peterborough player warned. Peterborough enjoying the lions share of the attacking play now, Dortch’s defence clearance turning into a great ball forwards Steward after it looks to lay it off inside for Pollard to shoot, Annie Hickey reading it for Colney Heath the defender in to nick the ball and attempt to set up a counter attack, on to Freestone to Milton away on the right squares a cross in ear side Townsend-Brown going for it so too Dortch the defender sliding in to win the challenge inside the box. 

 Flowing football from Peterborough Henderson with Horner out to Steward right side a brilliant pass long in behind on the diagonal to pick out Cudone nipping into the box left, her first touch taking the ball out from her feet giving Hancock a chance to dive for it, grabbing it into her body Cudone hurdling over her. 

  GOAL! Out of nothing Colney Heath are back on level terms late in the first half. Milton who has carried a threat all through the first half doing well to win a corner on the right players forwards as Charlene Moreton goes across to take it, a fantastic inswinging delivery high, Hudson up for it near post misses the ball past her finds the underside of the ball to nestle into the back of the net 1-1.

Charlene Moreton scores direct from a corner to level the scores for Colney Heath

 The full back have swapped sides for Colney Heath, May over at left back now called into action to make a vital tackle inside the box as the ball is played on through the middle to send Steward away in attack the full back on her shoulder pushing her wide of goal lunging to make the tackle before Steward can unleash a shot. 

Katie Steward attacking for Peterborough Samantha May across to defend for Colney Heath

  GOAL! The game turned completely on its head then as moments after levelling the scores they break to score and take the lead. The ball left side lifted forwards a miscued defensive clearance seeing the ball fall in behind with Milton quickest on the right side latching onto it taking on the shot early from 25 yards out well struck Hudson with little chance as it flies over her into the back of the net 1-2.

  Finding themselves trailing with just a minute of the first half left Peterborough get on the attack good combination play between Driscoll-King and Steward on the right the cross played into the box Pollard right of the D, her effort blocked by Hickey. Peterborough closing the ball down with intensity with the half-time whistle imminent. 

 GOAL! Winning the ball inside the Colney Heath half their defence pushed up Dortch to Mulheron who plays a great ball forwards for Cudone to gather on the left the striker head down with one intent to get inside and take on the shot lets fly from the top of the area the ball angling in over the keeper into the top corner 2-2. The half-time whistle blows.

Leah Cudone scoring a superb equaliser to make it 2-2 on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

 An entertaining first half of football, plenty of action, played at a good pace, chances created, a splash of controversy into the mix. Peterborough started well and created opportunities. Colney Heath coming back into the game Both sides making use of their wide players, Peterborough taking a deserved lead, Colney Heath with a fortunate levelling goal but no doubt about their 2nd a quality strike from Milton, Peterborough responding well to level the scores before the break Cudone with a superb strike to make it 2-2. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.  

The sun starting to poke through more towards the end of the first half now bright and facing the goal Peterborough are defending 2nd half as they get the game restarted. Both sides making a change at half-time Kimberly Fairweather on in place of Smith for Peterborough, Melissa Godino replaced Khan in the wing for Colney Heath. Cudone out on the right attacking sends a driven shot in towards the near post the ball held by Hancock closing the angle. 

  Oliver bringing the ball forwards for Colney Heath up the right into Milton she cuts infield before firing a cross in towards the top of the area met by Moreton her 1st time effort rising towards goal sails over the crossbar. Mulheron picking up the first yellow card of the game for an ungainly tackle on Milton looking to get on 20 yards out on the right. Freestone over the set-piece floated into the area, claimed well by Hudson. A lively start to the 2nd half both sides closing down the ball.

Christina Freestone winning the ball in midfield for Colney Heath

  Townsend-Brown caught just offside as Colney Heath play the ball on through the middle. Peterborough a little sloppy with their passes in the middle, Oliver getting hold of it up for Moreton, Mulheron in to win the ball back. Hancock is having an assured performance in goal for Colney Heath takes a confident catch high above her head as Cudone lifts a cross in from the right. 

Sheree Oliver playing the ball forwards

  A 2nd change for Peterborough with Georgia Coulson coming on for Davies. Peterborough get a corner on the right the delivery in towards the near side punched back to the taker by Hancock, crossed back in dropping in the six yard box, players attacking it none can get a clean strike on the ball, Hickey wining it with a no nonsense clearance. Steward out on the right bursts in behind Hancock coming to meet her one on one Steward jinks left the right attempting to deceive the keeper before trying to shoot across her, Hancock saving once more. 

Peterborough enjoying more of the attack more Colney Heath happy to sit ready to hit on the counter. Oliver bringing it out on for Townsend-Brown, Milton the outlet ready to go on the right, Coulson intercepting the pass for Peterborough. Hancock continues to thwart the Peterborough attack again Cudone clever is through into the box looking to take the ball around the keeper, Hancock down to pinch the ball. Pollard lines up a strike from 20 yards her attempt drilled wide. Fairweather comes off for Peterborough on comes Alexa Hunter. Milton off for Colney Heath, Khan returning with Godino moving to the right. 

Bronwyn Mulheron

  Henderson allowed to travel with the ball 20 yards out goes to pull the trigger Hickey running out to close her down making the block. Into the final 20 minutes the game remains there for the taking. Pollard carries the attack on the right for Peterborough, May holding her up, Cudone joining in support the pair win a corner. The ball in cleared by Hickey, her header falling to Steward 25 yards out does connect with the shot lacks the pace to trouble Hancock. 

Kelly Glynn holding off Leah Cudone

  Colney Heath’s defence the busier a determination amongst them not to concede, Glynn clearing as Hunter almost feds Pollard into the box making a run left channel. Pollard’s last actin of the game as she comes off now to be replaced by Eleanor Spendelow. Cudone looking the most likely to score as she makes another purposeful run on the right her shot fired in low Hancock down to save the ball loose however in front of her Peterborough slow to follow-up as Colney Heath scramble it away. Cudone taking the ball on to the byline right side lifting a cross in central evading Hancock this time, Spendlow jumping in the middle can’t keep her header down. 

Samaira Khan tracking Frances Horner as she brings the ball on for Peterborough

  Mulheron sending a fine pass forwards for Steward breaking right of the D takes aim the ball on target can only pick out Hancock back on her line, The game entering the final five minutes, Colney Heath working hard in defence keen to remain unbeaten allow Peterborough to come on. Coulson playing the ball on for Hunter to release Henderson central, Hickey stepping out of the back line to defend for Colney Heath. Another change for Colney Heath, Coulson departing… Frances Peeling on. 

  Peterborough winning a couple of free-kicks on the right late on Cudone on the first, Hancock claiming. The 2nd taken by Steward with Horner coming for it, Hickey dealing with the threat for the visitors. Moments left Peterborough attacking late on Henderson off a throw left crossing along the top of the area Hunter touching it into the path of the advancing Driscoll-King smashes a ball in towards goal deflected central Spendlow central wrong footed adjusts well to get her head on it turn it back towards goal Hancock across at her left post to save.

Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

  The points shared in an entertaining game, all action from start to finish. No more goals added 2nd half but not for want of trying from Peterborough pushed hard in the 2nd half Colney Heath putting in a solid defensive display thwarting them. Little in attack from the visitors in the 2nd 45 did invite pressure but maintain their unbeaten start to the season with a few players out. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match 

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award not an easy one once again a few contenders certainly. Adi Milton carrying a threat on the right for Colney Heath especially first half scoring a fantastic goal. Lucy Hancock with a confident display in goal reading the game well. For Peterborough, Evie Driscoll-King with good defensive work at full back getting forwards well to linking with Katie Steward. Edging it though Leah Cudone attacking for Peterborough brings a wealth of experience to the side making forceful and clever runs on and off the ball creating chances and always looking to score. Took her goal beautifully. 

An enjoyable trip to Peterborough, the ERWFL Premier Division producing yet another entertaining game full of excitement. Competitive from the 1st minute. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated. 5 games into the season already can’t believe it.

 

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 4th September

FAWNL South East Division One

 Derby day and the first midweek match of the season for Women’s Football East making the trip to Ely City FC this Wednesday evening to watch Cambridge City Ladies take on Cambridge United WFC for the first time in the FAWNL.

  Cambridge City Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division last season part of a league and cup double to earn promotion to FAWNL South East Division One. The two sides once one before going their separate ways have met several times as Cambridge City rose back up the women’s football pyramid now joining United in the FAWNL. A strong youth set-up within the club their Development side winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season joins the ERWFL Division One South, whilst the club is to boast a 3rd women’s side playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. 

  Joining the FAWNL, Cambridge City Ladies have moved to a new home, Ely City FC whilst they await completion of their new ground at Sawston. A ground their opponents know well having played their as Cambridge Women before linking up with Cambridge United FC. Good facilities a new cinema and restaurant park build next to the spots stadiums situated just off the A10. Have signed goalkeeper Dominika Szary from Newmarket Town Women with Karly Tolentino and Beatrice Fitzsimons also joining. Sofia Castiglione back too after impressing in a handful of game for City before injury saw her out for a long period. Two losses from their opening two matches away to Leyton Orient and at home to Billericay Town Ladies see them without a point. Better in the FAWNL Cup where they won through to the competition proper beating Southern Premier Division side Chichester City Ladies.

  A new home too this season for Cambridge United WFC playing at St Neots Town FC, a new base for games and training for both their senior and Development side. Have lost a few players to other clubs over the close season a small squad with a determined attitude. A new beginning they too find themselves without a point on the board a narrow lose conceding in the final minutes of both their opening league and cup encounters. 2 errors costing them away to AFC Wimbledon at the weekend. A local derby to look forwards to is great for women’s football in Cambridge to see two sides playing as high as the 4th tier. Always competitive games against the pair.

The pitch looking well prepared as the lights start to come on, a good atmosphere building a good sized crowd taking shape. A hint of rain in the air day clouds around, a rainbow over the ground prior to kick-off. A breeze cooling things down. The bar and kitchen open hot and cold drinks aswell as pies on offer. 

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Ceri Flye, Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Beatrice Fitzsimons, Karly Tolentino & Megan Tonks. Subs – Tee Mhunduru, Shannon Shaw, Robyn Phillips, Laura Mills, & Georgia Day.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Emma Jenkins, Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Kelley Blanchflower & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Verity Crook, Chloe Armstrong, Albany Hodgson & Chloe Smith.

  As per usual with these affairs where we have two clubs similarly named they become City and United from now on. It’s City to get the derby match underway, wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves black shorts and socks. City playing the ball back to there defence United close down quickly to put pressure on the ball, rewarded as Amber Cantwell gets hold of possession on halfway and drives through the middle with the ball reaching the area before Ceri Flye partnering captain Becca Fay in defence puts in the challenge the ball ending up safely gathered by Dominika Szary.

   GOAL! An early break through from United the pressing game continuing Cantwell again winning it central sending the pass on for striker Kelley Blanchflower she sees fellow attacker Mollie Coupar breaking away into the left channel rolls the ball into her path Coupar taking it on into the box left of goal closing in on the six yard box smashes a shot in under the keeper at the near post 0-1.

Mollie Coupar pressing Amy Reed for possession of the ball

   United have started well playing a high tempo, up for the game Blanchflower spreading play out wide right for Amy Howlett making her first appearance for United this season pushes on with the ball into the corner, tackled by full back Lauren Tomlinson to win the ball back for City. The hosts making progress wide left Karly Tolentino looking to create a shot from distance falling wide of the mark. 

 United bring the ball out Blanchflower up ended wide left inside the City half winning a free-kick. Cantwell over the ball, striking the two player wall deflected left Cantwell able to run onto it to fling a cross into the area, City struggling to clear as United pressure well. Flye busy at the heart of the defence doing well against Blanchflower as the United striker battles her way into the area, back with Szary looks to set up a counter, Charlotte Crisp breaking it up for United. 

Kelley Blanchflower with Cambridge City ladies captain Becca Fay

  Faith Hewitt playing the ball on up the left for United with Blanchflower providing the passing option, Flye going with her tackling to play the ball out for a throw. Crisp coming over to provide support on that side as Blanchflower controls from the throw the ball passed across the top of the City area, Cantwell there looking to get into a shooting position taking the ball wide pressed by Fay the shot miscued. United looking lively Carrie Bennett with the ball on for Hewitt left the ball high across the face of goal, picked up by Coupar far side another ball in across the face of goal, Szary able to lay claim to the 3rd attempt.

   City slow to settle United having given them little time on the ball, Sofia Castiglione on the ball in midfield looks t take players on doing well rides two tackles making ground before releasing Charlotte Gillies on the right, the winger’s ball into the area too close to the keeper at the near post Savannah Smith handling comfortably. City starting to find a foothold in the game Amy Reed winning it at the back an attack launched the ball forwards Megan Tonks with the lay off right into Beatrice Fitzsimons making a central run, her stab forwards almost finding it’s way through into the area for Tolentino cut out by the United defence.

   The game setting down somewhat, both sides wasting passes as they try to maintain a high tempo move the ball quickly no one wanting to keep possession slow things down, lively certainly has a derby feel about it. 

  GOAL! 22 minutes played and City get themselves back on level terms, a fantastic goal from Tonks, the City striker having a fantastic season with the Development side scoring 32 goals from 18 appearances on their way to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season. Out wide left for City holding onto the ball strong gets inside her marker towards the top corner of the area striking the ball superbly the flight taking it across goal over the keeper into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

Megan Tonks up to win the header for Cambridge City Ladies

  United get forwards a free-kick awarded on the left Cantwell to play the ball in, headed clear inside the box central Crisp moving to intercept the loose ball latching onto the shot hit hard but wide of the goal from 25 yards out. Gillies looks to take on Bennett as she attacks right the United full back getting back at her to win the ball back before the cross can be made. United are away on the right Howlett with Coupar ahead of her, Fay drawn out of the middle to assist Tomlinson in the corner Coupar does well to get the ball back up the line to Howlett she passes central Crisp not afraid to have a crack from distance meeting it once again 30 yards the strike brushes the roof of the net on its way over. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp

  Passes continue to go astray starting to get a little scrappy, niggly challenges coming it, Cantwell on the end of a couple of the more robust ones. A driving shot from Castiglione from 30 yards out following good work from Tolentino on the left fall wide of goal. Tolentino showing great close ball control on the left high up the pitch twisting left then right looking to come inside before shifting and getting the ball in behind to cross flashed in Tonks gets something on it near post the ball brushing the chest of a defender for a moment looks like it could be an unfortunate own goal as it goes on across goal, Smith reacting well getting down to stop it.

Cambridge City Ladies, Karly Tolentino

   Castiglione bringing the ball on once more plays a good diagonal ball on for Gillies bursting on right side of the area, Bennett putting in the tackle playing the ball behind for a corner. The ball in towards the top of the area from the right cleared by Cantwell. Look to break the ball on down the right a strong challenge from Tomlinson seeing United awarded a free-kick in the corner. A good delivery in towards the near post Szary doing well for City up to make a confident claim.

  The tackles showing a bit more bite late in the first half Emma Jenkins partnering captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt in central defence this evening bringing the ball out from the ball brought down unceremoniously. Fitzsimons getting a warning from referee Chris Abbott. Moments later Cantwell is floored by Tomlinson as the United midfielder looks to break from a City free-kick, the full back shown the first yellow card of the game. Both benches not happy with decisions the game getting feisty late in the half a late throw on the left high for United played inside across the top of the area Blanchflower looking to see it across her body 20 yards out strikes it on the half volley, the ball already spinning the shot swerving away from goal behind the last action of the first half.  

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC

  A good first half in the Cambridge derby, United making a fast start bright snapping into challenges and pressing City all over the pitch looking sharp taking an early lead. City taking a little time to settle, United’s intent slowing City able to get back into it get forwards Tonks with a superb strike to level the scores. Scrappy at times with passes rushed going astray, the half ending on and even note could go either way 2nd half.

  United to get the 2nd half underway, neither side making a change. The visitors going long to the left with Coupar on the move, strong holding onto the ball getting into a shooting position fires over the top from 25 yards out. 

 GOAL! City get forwards to take the lead early in the 2nd, bodies forwards as they attack possession on the left Tolentino playing the ball into the middle gathered by Fitzsimons who bursts on towards the area allowed to go on, goes to shoot a miscue the ball turns into a brilliant assist angled wide and on into the path of Tonks right of goal, the striker turning and sending a low ball past Smith before she can adjust 2-1.

   GOAL! All action at the start of the 2nd half as United get up the other end and draw level again almost straight away. Attacking right Howlett’s pass on for Coupar brings United a throw deep in City territory, put on into Blanchflower she turns and heads into the area close to the byline fires a ball in towards goal Szary down to it, a touch but escapes her grasp with Coupar on top of her bundling it over the line to score her 2nd of the match 2-2.

  The game has the early intensity back is a derby game, both sides feeling the game is there to win. United winning a corner right side the ball in towards the top of the area Burt running in to met it near post lifting her shot over. Both keepers called into action running out of there areas to clear first Szary then her kick forwards dealt with by Smith. Passes rushed the tempo remains high no one settling on the ball. City make the first change of the game Laura Mills coming on for Gillies going out to the right. 

Cambridge City Ladies, Lauren Tomlinson

  The substitution injecting some urgency into City’s attacking play the ball spread wide to Mills has Tonks out wide with her the ball crossed into the United box cleared, Reed getting forwards onto the loose ball shoots from distance the ball stopped in the six yard by her opposing right back Davies, a good first touch to bring the ball safely under control. 

 Cantwell with a tame effort that rolls safely through to Szary who sets up Mills on the counter pace taking it on the diagonal ball fired into the area read by Smith coming out to collect. city make a 2nd substitution 2 goals for Tonks her work done for the night she is replaced in attack by Shannon Shaw. The breeze starting to pick up. Cantwell will feel the aftermath of this game as she is bundled to the ground yet again, not deterred however.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell

  United make their first change of the match in attack Blanchflower coming off to be replaced by Chloe Smith. Bodily plays a pass long on for Mills getting on down the right keeping wide well her cross into the box dangerous chested down towards goal by a defender for a moment looks like it might be an own goal gasps from the crowd, by Smith down quickly has it save pulled into her body.Mills adding impetus to the City attack the game wide open entering the final 15 minutes could go either way still. 

  United getting some momentum themselves Coupar with Hewitt, Howlett found on the right the ball in towards the top of the area fired in near post cut out by the City defence. Tomlinson strong on the ball as she battles to bring it forwards. Play from one end to the other Mills crossing from the right United heading the ball clear launching a counter attack, Crisp on for Smith plays the ball to Howlett right takes it inside into the box City conceding the corner. 

  Into the last 3 minutes of the match the ball in from the right cleared long, Davies picking it up for United lifts a high ball back into the area difficult for Szary to judge back on her line dropping late catches by spills for another corner. City dealing confidently Fay determined on the ball carrying it out from the back over halfway but cleared by United City with a throw left Tomlinson’s bionic arms sending it long into towards the top of the area, United winning the header attempt to counter Bodily breaking it up. 

  City mounting one last attack and come very close to claiming the 3 points late on Fitzsimons seeing the ball into her feet outside the United area right off a throw turns and unleashes a shot Smith diving to her left thankful to see the ball run narrowly wide of the post, City with a free-kick on halfway Castiglione to play it up into the United area, Burt dealing with it the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 2-2 Cambridge United WFC

  Honours even in the first Cambridge derby of the season, on the whole a fair result the points shared and both getting off the mark at last will be a relief. City making a slow start coming back to level after conceding in the opening minutes. Taking the lead early in the 2nd period only to concede straight away. A good watch the crowd entertained, often scrappy niggly at times the temp good what you’d expect from a derby match. Both sides will feel they could have won it and could well have gone either way.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Contenders from both sides, Ceri Flye doing a some great defensive work for City in the heart of defence. Sofia Castiglione too in midfield. Megan Tonks in attack scoring a great first goal levelling the scores then putting them into the lead early 2nd half. Mollie Coupar giving United the early advantage. Kelley Blanchflower with some great runs linking up the midfield and attack. Amber Cantwell edging it for me overall getting about the pitch great first touches and often a the heart of the action.

 Said I wouldn’t get up at 4am and write this but I can’t sleep with a game still rattling around the brain. An entertaining game if scrappy at times the two sides enjoying a good rivalry that will only grow and in doing so increase the interest for the women’s game in the county.  Updated with pictures for last evenings game courtesy of Gary Reed. Grateful to be able to use them Gary is a tremendous supporter of the women’s game and it’s a pleasure to feature his pictures.

 

The Round-Up – Suffolk 01/09/19

The Round-Up

Sun 1st September

Suffolk Women’s Division

One more Round-Up to bring you this week as the county leagues get underway, the rest kicking off their season next Sunday, Suffolk’s Women’s Division began this Sunday. 10 of the 14 sides competing this season in action. Was 15 but an 11th hour withdrawal from Coplestonians Ladies sees a readjusting of fixtures. League winners 4 seasons ago hope to see Coplestonians back at some point in the future. 

A thrilling title race last season with newcomers Needham Market Women pushing eventual champions East Bergholt United Ladies all the way both are promoted to the ERWFL this season. Needham Market creating a Reserves side one of 5 new names in the league, with Henley Athletic, Ramsey & Mistley also new. AFC Kesgrave are back in the league along with Bury Town formerly Walsham Le Willows. Holland Ladies formerly FC Clacton from Essex moving across the border. 

Two of the newcomers meeting on the opening day as Needham Market Women travelled to play Ramsey & Mistley Ladies. Needham Market having several familiar faces in their line-up having represented the club last season and that experience showed as they racked up a double figure scoreline to win their opening fixture. Lois Balfour and Hannah Cobbold both opening their accounts with a hat-trick apiece. Katie Moore was also on target with a brace with Gemma Moore, Megan Stock and Abbie Wilkinson all netting a goal in an 11-1 win. A tough beginning to life in the league for Ramsey & Mistley their goal scored by Dominique Merchant.

Also recording an opening day away win to start the season are Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Began their season at Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies who were giving debuts to 7 new players as they began their 2nd season in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Leiston St Margarets more established in the league winning the match 5-1 with Lucy Eagle netting a brace. Leanne Morphew and Justine Young also opening their accounts with a goal each an own goal adding a 5th goal. Lucy Robson getting her first goal for Chantry Grasshoppers.

Brantham Athletic Ladies will be amongst the title favourites this season they began their campaign at home to Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. A close first half saw Merlin Watson put Brantham 1-0 up inside 15 minutes, Brightlingsea scoring in the 23rd minute an own goal plus another goal for Merlin in the 44th minute seeing Brantham 3-1 up the visitors pulling it back to 3-2 just before the half-time whistle. Better from Brantham 2nd half as Danielle Harvey opened her account to make it 4-2 in the 54th minute. Rebecca Prime giving Brantham a 3 goal advantage scoring in the 64th minute. Brightlingsea getting it back to 5-3 with 10 minutes left Shannon Giles getting on the scoresheet in the last 5 minutes to see Brantham start the season with a 6-3 win. 

Rebecca Prime amongst the goalscorers for Brantham Athletic Ladies on the opening day.

Alresford Colne Rangers will be looking to push for the top positions in the Suffolk Women’s Division as they begin their 2nd season having moved from the Essex County league a year ago. At home for their first fixture were taking on AFC Kesgrave Ladies making a return to the league after a season’s absence. The visitors making a good start with Abigail Eley scoring. Alresford though coming back well to lead 3-1 at half-time a 4th goal added to secure the 3 points in the 2nd period. Rae Clancy, Georgia Egner, Jo Harvey and Tracey Lewis all getting their first goals of the campaign.

Woodbridge Town Ladies improved to finish strongly in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division last season, will be hoping to continue that form into the new season. Began this Sunday at home taking on Bury Town Ladies who have reformed the squad having been Walsham Le Willows last season will be strong themselves and so it proved in a close game as the visitors edged out Woodbridge 2-1 to claim the 3 points.

  3 points to awarded to Brettvale Ladies a home win against league newcomers Henley Athletic.

 

The Round-Up – Women’s FA Cup 01/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup

Once again there are a record number of entries for this season’s Women’s FA Cup the final taking place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 7th May. An extra-preliminary round having already taken place there were 98 ties for this Sunday’s Preliminary Round, 15 of which represented by sides covered by Women’s Football East, plenty of action and goals to bring you from the weekend so let’s get started…

  Will begin with the featured match upon the website this weekend a trip to Peterborough to watch Riverside Ladies play Suffolk side Bungay Town Ladies. A good pre-season so far for Bungay winning 5 from 5 including a 2-1 win away to Northamptonshire side, Corby Town Ladies in the extra-preliminary round. In contrast for Riverside this was the first game of the season and one where they had the bare 11 available. Turned out to be the highest winning margin of the round. Bungay starting on the front foot firing a couple of warning shots across the Riverside goal, Shannon Dade on the right breaking to send the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-0. The visitors soon adding a 2nd scoring from a corner the ball dropping into the six yard box Leanne Smith applying the final touch. Midway through the first half Bungay extended their lead on top Selina Rowland charging down the ball in midfield the rebound sending Smith away to attack and score. Smith going on to net a hat-trick, Imogen McGregor getting another soon after to make it 5-0. McGregor with time to pick her options put clear on goal sending in Bungay’s 6th, Riverside capitulating late in the half as Bungay ran away with it scoring 3 more in quick succession Smith adding 2 more to have 5 before half-time herself midfielder Selina Rowland getting a goal too. 9-0 the half-time lead.

Leanne Smith amongst the goals for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st half scoring 5

  Little Riverside can do minor positional adjustments, Bungay making 3 changes beginning the 2nd half where they left off the first Rowland netting her 2nd and Bungay’s 10th a great header off a corner from the top of the area placed across goal. Two of the substitutes combining for the 11th goal Samantha Penman right providing the cross in front of goal for Tracey Livingstone to tap home. Despite the scoreline Riverside are better in the 2nd period Gabija Pavlova doing well centrally in midfield. The goals continue though Bungay are in confident mood, Rowland getting her hat-trick. A penalty conceded Nicola Hazell smashing the ball home Livingstone with another then McGregor completing her hat-trick to bring up a 15th goal an emphatic win for Bungay away for the 8th time in their previous 9 FA Cup matches hoping for a home draw in the next round.

  Plenty of goal elsewhere too, Harlow Town Ladies had scored 16 in their previous outing in adding to their squad over the summer travelled to AFC Sudbury Ladies in the Preliminary Round. A hat-trick for one of their new signings Becky Shephard last weekend to open her account, 3 goals too open her account for the season for Olivia Steele, both were amongst the goals as Harlow ran out 8-0 winners to book their spot in the next round. Steele scoring a 2nd successive hat-trick, Shephard went one better scoring 4 goals. Lucy Edmeades also getting her name on the scoresheet for her first of the season.

  Leading the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start their season Colney Heath Lades were in confident mood as they travelled to play fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. New signing Samaira Khan amongst the goals early doors for Colney Heath scoring early in the Preliminary Round to see the visitors leading on 8 minutes. The advantage doubled midway through the first half as Charlene Moreton sends in a shot of the outside of her boot. Bedford pulling a goal back from a headed cross. Colney Heath responding well chances spurned Bedford winning a penalty a let off as it goes over. A 2-1 lead for Colney Heath at half-time. Sheree Oliver scoring 10 minutes into the 2nd half supplying Colney Heath with a 2 goal cushion their defence little troubled as they progress.

   Luton Town Ladies relegated from the FAWNL last season starting life in the ERWFL well with 2 wins from 2 were hosting a young Essex side who produced a shock in the Women’s FA Cup last season beating higher league opponents Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Leigh Ramblers Ladies winning Essex Premier Division last season joining the ERWFL themselves this season much of their squad still 18. Luton a stern test. The hosts taking the lead through Rebecca Ferris after being set up by Jess McKay. McKay herself scoring Luton’s 2nd Zara Carroll with the assist. Dionne Manning amongst the goals for Luton early in the season making it 3-0. Funmi Bababola finding the top corner to make it 4. McKay with her 2nd from a header making it 5-0. A first Luton goal for Leah Tomlin seeing the hosts into a 6 goal lead. Kiki Christofi striking from distance securing a comfortable 7-0 win for Luton.

 Wroxham Women were looking forwards to their first Women’s FA Cup game under their new name the Yachtswomen hosting Kettering Women at Trafford Park on Sunday. Thing’s not going to plan at half-time however as Wroxham found themselves trailing 2-1. Despite creating good chances early ion Wroxham found themselves behind on 22 minutes The lead lasted just 6 minutes however as Wroxham got back on level terms Grace Birchall finding the back of the net. Pressure from the visitors though saw them retake the lead soon after through an unfortunate own goal.  Wroxham with a much better 2nd half performance though seeing them equalise in the 56th minute Birchall threading the ball through for Emily Leach to score on the angle. Leach on target again six minutes later scoring from a half volley to put Wroxham in front. Beth Bygrave newly signed up to Wroxham getting her first goal for the club making it 4-2 quickly adding a 2nd making it 5-2 from 25 yards. Into the last 10 minutes and another of Wroxham’s new signings , Kayleigh Holloway adding a 6th goal lobbing the keeper saw her effort kiss the crossbar before following the rebound in.

Six goals too for the winning side elsewhere too in the Women’s FA Cup as Essex side Bowers & Pitsea recovered well from their mauling last time out. Travelling to Hertfordshire to play Hitchin Belles newly promoted to Beds & Herts Division One. Ebony Moore latching onto a misplaced pass in the 25th minute firing the visitors into the lead., Two superb strikes from Megan Harley followed in the 34th and 38th minute to see Bowers & Pitsea holding a 3-0 lead at the break. The lead extended 5 minutes into the 2nd half Harley setting up Moore to score her 2nd of the match. Hitchin Belles pulling a goal back in the 55th minute after Bowers & Pitsea fail to clear a corner. 5 minutes left to play Moore looking set to score her hat-trick a defensive miscue seeing an own goal scored instead. Moore though getting another opportunity in the final minute to celebrate scoring a hat-trick Bowers & Pitsea winning 6-1. 

  Millwall Lionesses a new addition to the ERWFL Division One South this season began their FA Cup adventure away to Whyteleafe Women on Sunday in the Preliminary Round. The visitors making a fantastic start a double from Ellie Lunn seeing them into a 2-0 lead inside 4 minutes. The game settling a little Whyteleafe pulled it back to 2-1 in the 27th minute the ball not cleared from a corner. A counter attack seeing the hosts level the scores with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st period. 2-2 at half-time Whyteleafe turned it completely around going 3-2 ahead inside 2 minutes of the restart. Millwall responded quickly back on level terms with Lunn on target for her hat-trick. Millwall coming back to lead as they were awarded a penalty in the 66th minute Lunn with 3 already stepping up to make it 4. Brooke Hills on target 4 minutes later to put Millwall into a 5-2 lead it was 6-3 moments later as Katie Klosinski fired home. 

   Beds & Herts Women’s Division One Champions, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies were away to Watford Ladies Development in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. Despite scoring twice they were knocked out at the first hurdle as Watford’s Development side ran out 4-2 winners.

    ERWFL Premier Division side Haringey Borough Women travelled to play Phoenix Sports Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday the lower league side putting in a good performance to win through to the next round of the competition with goals form Mika Keen, Emily Laker, Phoebe Murton, Jemma Witchlow, Hannah Baker and Ayo Shokunbi securing a 6-1 result.

  Wymondham Town Ladies have enjoyed the Women’s FA Cup in recent season’s began this campaign with a trip to Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. The ERWFL Premier Division side playing 2 leagues higher took the lead midway through the 1st half with Mollie O’Callaghan put through to open the scoring. Sarah Payne one of Wymondham’s new recruits opening her account in the 38th minute getting on the end of a Mia Etheridge cross to score. 2-0 up at half-time an early goal followed 2nd half with striker Hannah Waters finding the back of the net. Summer Ward netting Wymondham’s 4th from a free-kick on 68 minutes. Another new recruit opening her account with 7 minutes left on the clock, Freya Symonds seeing her effort cross the line. 

   AFC Dunstable Women playing in the ERWFL Premier Division made the short trip to played Houghton Athletic Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup. After two heavy defeats to start the season Dunstable were looking for a positive result, their Beds & Herts Women’s Division One opponents holding them at 0-0 late into the game the deadlock broken in the 88th minute and joy for Dunstable as Dionne Umeh sent the ball into the back of the net and send them through to the net round of the competition. 

  Newmarket Town Women were wary of their opponents as they travelled to Peterborough to face Netherton United Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. All square during the opening half hour Newmarket creating chances it was Netherton who opened the scoring on 33 minutes, the ball initially saved from a corner the hosts quicker to react scoring on the follow up. Newmarket were soon back on level terms scoring from a corner of their own 2 minutes later Jess Linger swinging the ball in Annabel Cuthbert scoring from close range. Newmarket going on to take the lead at the death in the 1st half Jodie Woodfield winning the ball in midfield on for Antonia Smith to play Cuthbert in for her 2nd of the game. Save from goalkeeper Elli-Rae Nicholls ensuring Newmarket held there lead the win not made save until the 90th minute with Lauren Deller making it 3-1.

Annabel Cuthbert on the score sheet twice for Newmarket Town Women (photo credit Gary Reed)

  King’s Lynn Town Ladies travelled down to played Haverhill Rovers Ladies on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup. Newly promoted to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Haverhill suffering a blow losing their goalkeeper prior to kick-off as they prepared to make their debut in the competition assistant manager Kayleigh Steed doning the gloves produced a number of fine saves as they took on their high league opponents. Goals from Becky Russell, Katie Ward and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse sealing a 3-1 win to see King’s Lynn through to the next round.

  Another close contest saw Histon Ladies score a late winner to beat St Ives Town Ladies in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday. Histon travelling to Westwood Road on Sunday scoring the only goal of the game with 15 minutes left on the clock the ball headed on from a goal kick, Kirsty Geal breaking with it left side sending it on to Sophie Lanham breaking through the centre into the box to strike home the winning goal.

  The final game to bring you saw ERWFL Premier Division side Royston Town Women play Division One South opponents Wodson Park Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Hayley Elderd, Emma Slater, Sammy Tinsley and Ellie Wilkinson saw Royston safely past their fellow Hertfordshire opponents in the Preliminary Round winning the game 4-1 with Dempsey Favell scoring the Wodson Park goal.

  The draw for the First Qualifying Round taking place this Monday once again saw some intriguing ties pulled out of the bag, 8 games featuring sides in the East, listed below:-

Luton Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Wroxham Women v Wymondham Town Ladies

Watford Ladies Development v Newmarket Town Women

Histon Ladies v St Albans Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies v Royston Town Women

AFC Dunstable Women v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Millwall Lionesses v Worthing Ladies

all ties to be played Sun 22nd September.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 01/09/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 1st September

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Back to the league this Sunday after the FAWNL Cup’s Determining Round took centre stage last weekend. 4 games played in the Southern Premier Division whilst Oxford United Women saw yet another league game postponed meaning they will have to wait until next Sunday to get their league campaign underway. The top 3 after the opening round of fixtures winning again to maintain 100% starts.

  Yeovil Town Women scoring 16 goals in their opening two fixtures were at home for the first time this season taking on Chichester City Ladies. Despite creating a host of chances in the opening period Yeovil were held to a goalless draw at the break. More of the same at the start of the 2nd half, changes made Katie Jones and Erin Bloomfield joining the action for the hosts the latter opening the scoring from a corner the in to head the ball missing Bloomfield getting a second opportunity to turn the ball in to make it 1-0. Sarah Wiltshire amongst those creating the chances getting one to count to make it 2-0 lobbing the keeper. A curled effort from Kelly Aldridge securing a 3-0 victory for Yeovil who stay top.

   Crawley Wasps Ladies newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division winning their opening league game a fortnight ago to move up from 3rd spot to 2nd in the table with a solid win at home to Hounslow Women this Sunday. Held a narrow advantage at half-time leading 1-0. Charlotte Owen scoring in the 12th minute from a corner that wasn’t cleared. Maria Ledezma-Viso and Kemina Webber introduced to the action for Crawly in the 55th minute the pair making an impact Webber capitalising to double Crawley’s advantage on 66 minutes. Five minutes later Crawley were awarded a penalty as Hope Nash was fouled inside the box. Captain Naomi Cole making no mistake from the penalty spot to make it 3-0. Rachel Carter thumping the ball home to seal a 4-0 win to the hosts with 15 minutes left.

   Milton Keynes Dons Women continue their fantastic start to the season, again on the road a long trip to play league newcomers Keynsham Town Ladies who were playing their first league match of the season. Last season’s South West Division One champions taking the lead midway through the first half. MK Dons coming back to level the scores in the final minute of the first period Rebecca McShane with the ball in, Anya Kinnane heading home with her first of the season to make it 1-1. A penalty saved in the 65th minute by Keynsham’s goalkeeper keeping the scores level. The game heading into the final 15 minutes when a fantastic piece of counter attacking play saw MK Dons break from a Keynsham corner to score the winning goal, Leah Littlechild picking up the ball outside her box travelling with pace 60 yards into the opposing box to square across the face of goal, Jade Bell newly signed to the club keeping pace with her arriving at the far post to turn the ball in netting her 1st goal for the club, winning the 3 points. MK Dons 3rd in the table.

After losing their opening two fixtures Plymouth Argyle Ladies travelled to Kent this Sunday to play Gillingham Ladies who had started the season with a 1-0 victory away to Cardiff. The visitors making a great start to the match leading 1 nil after just a minutes play, Rebecca Dandridge firing the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. Gillingham coming close to levelling the scores striking the woodwork three times the score remaining 1-0 to Plymouth at half-time. Natasha Knapman opening her account for Plymouth 3 minutes into the 2nd half giving them a 2 nil advantage. Gillingham pressed for a goal Plymouth determined to hold on to the clean sheet got it the 3 points seeing them up to 5th.

FAWNL South East Division One

Just 1 side holding onto a 100% winning record at the start of the season after 2 games played in South East Division One. Billericay Town Ladies travelling up to Ely to play newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies. The deadlock not broken until late in the first half, Jay Blackie with a good ball on into the area for Zoe Rushen to fire the visitors into the lead. The Essex side leading 1-0 at the break. Rushen was on target again 11 minutes into the 2nd half to double the lead Blackie again the provider Rushen heading past the keeper. The 3 points made secure with 20 minutes left to play, Billericay on target fro a corner the combination the other way around this time Rushen sending the ball in for Blackie to score. Billericay winning 3-0 2 wins from 2.

  Two more side hoping to continue from opening day wins were Enfield Town Ladies and visitors Leyton Orient WFC meeting on Sunday. A 5-1 opening day win for Leyton Orient they took the lead in the match Hayley Barton scoring direct from a corner in the 12th minute. The visitors doing well early on creating opportunities. Naomi Ogunde with a great save tipping over a well struck effort from Katherine Long in the 37th minute. From the resulting corner Enfield found the leveller, captain Nuala McKevitt scrambling the ball over the line to see it tied 1-1 at half-time. Both goalkeepers called into action in the 2nd period producing fine saves Enfield striking the post late in the game it remained 1-1 until the final whistle to see the points shared. 

Enfield Town Ladies captain, Nuala McKevitt

 A draw on the opening day of the season for Ipswich Town Women at home to AFC Wimbledon, the Suffolk side made the trip down to Kent this Sunday to face newly promoted team, Kent Football United. Staring well Ipswich took the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Natasha Thomas shot rebounded back to Sophie Peskett on the edge of the area she smashed it back into the bottom corner to open her account. The positive start continuing Ipswich doubled their lead on 12 minutes Zoe Cossey’s shot taking a rebound this time skipper, Amanda Crump on hand to score and make it 2-0. Crump scoring again on 33 minutes seeing Ipswich end a good first half 3-0 in front. More opportunities in the 2nd half Peskett finding the back of the net again in the 78th minute with her 2nd of the game. The 4-0 win lifting Ipswich up to 3rd.

   AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting with a draw away to Ipswich, were at home this Sunday facing Cambridge United WFC who ha suffered late heartbreak in their 2 previous matches to miss out. First half goals from Helen Ogle on 28 minutes and Sophie Manzi in the 36th securing a 2-0 lead at half-time, AFC Wimbledon continued to hold onto their clean sheet in the 2nd period to record their first win of the season.

   Actonians Ladies winning their opening league match away from home were the hosts this weekend as they took on Essex side, AFC Basildon Women who had started life back in South East Division One with a loss. Actonians taking the lead on 10 minutes as Catherine Murphy fired them into the lead. Basildon coming back into it 10 minutes later to level with Kelly Wealthall scoring her first goal for the club. Wealthall then going on to put Basildon into the lead on 37 minutes, the advantage to the visitors at half-time. Wealthall celebrating her hat-trick as she scored her 3rd 5 minutes to the 2nd half to give Basildon a 2 goal cushion. Actonians reducing the deficit in the final minute as Lafa Ucha volleyed home not enough as Basildon took thier first 3 points of the season 3-2.

  A first win of the season too away from home for Stevenage Women. A few missing as they suffered defeat to Yeovil Town Women in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup last weekend they travelled to Norfolk with a few back to face Norwich City Ladies playing at home for the first time this season. The visitors going 1 nil up inside 15 minutes Ashleigh Deacon setting up Amy Makewell to score. Norwich getting back on level terms 10 minutes later. Stevenage back into the lead on the half hour Charlotte Ryan with the fantastic ball forwards controlled by Jenny Nagle and fired across goal for Makewell to net her 2nd of the game. Norwich’s Hope Armstrong saving well to deny Nagle a goal moments later the hosts getting up the other end one on one with the keeper only to strike the bar. Nagle getting her first FAWNL goal for Stevenage with 3 minutes of the 1st half left see them lead 3-1. A 4th goal coming early in the 2nd half Ryan up from the back there to put Makewell’s corner home at the near post. 4-1 the winning score.

Match Report – Riverside Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup Preliminary Round

Cup action this Sunday on Women’s Football East, from the Preliminary Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup and an opportunity to see two sides I haven’t seen play in a while as  Peterborough based side, Riverside Ladies take on Bungay Town Ladies from Suffolk.

  The Women’s FA Cup seeing more entries than ever as the game continues to grow across the country, an extra Preliminary Round already played there are 98 ties taking place this Sunday. Plenty of intriguing match ups too hard to settle on one always throws up some interesting ties.

  Has been a long time indeed since I last saw Riverside Ladies play getting on for 4 years I think. The club enjoying a rapid rise seeing them moving up to the East Midlands regional set-up and out of Women’s Football East’s coverage (can only do so much). Peterborough a hotbed for women’s football with several talented sides in the area, Riverside saw players leaving sometimes poached. Struggling dropped back into the Cambridgeshire Championship a rebuilding process, winning promotion back the the Premiership once again finished bottom as the team was hit once again, now rebuilding again as they prepare for another season in the Premiership the league strengthened now up to 13 sides will be a competitive league. Riverside have a strong youth set-up with U18s ready to step up to the senior side and U15 & U14 that bode well for future development. This Riverside’s first game of the season. 

  Bungay Town Ladies know the feeling of having their side raided for talent have often found themselves having to rebuild themselves. Playing in Norfolk Division One did the double just two season’s ago, last season proving more difficult with the squad suffering losses. Didn’t get to see them play last season much to my disappointment. Jody Wells now assisting manager Graham Purling have assembled a decent squad as they prepare for the new season in Norfolk, like the Cambridgeshire Premiership, Division One seeing an increase in size to 11 as new sides enter the league. Good results in pre-season 5 wins from 5 including a 2-1 win away to Northamptonshire side Corby Town Ladies in the extra Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup.

  The venue for today the Queens Park Pavilion Playing Fields, in Yaxley south of Peterborough itself. A large side featuring two full sized and several youth sized grass patches. Plenty of parking the changing room block before the playing area itself. The surface dry offering plenty of width. Nowhere near as hot as last weekend temperatures down to 20 degrees a fair bit of cloud around some dark, warm when the sun could break through a breeze blowing, pleasant.

Riverside Ladies starting XI – Maxine Wren, Amelia Roberts, Abigail Baker, Elizabeth Walker, Tia Vacca (C), Abigail Baker, Jess Hill, Rachel Burbridge, Gabija Pavlova, Ines Monteiro & Kerry Camwell. Subs – Ella Gaston & Jodie Skells.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Erin Galer, Leah Shephard, Charlotte Power (C), Katie Walker, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Shannon Dade, Nicola Hazell, Leanne Smith & Imogen McGregor. Subs – Teodora Ilie, Samantha Penman, Tracey Livingstone & Lindsey Adams.

  Two sides playing in today’s tie who are used to roll on roll off substitutes, not so in the Women’s FA Cup with only 3 substitutes allowed in regular play. Riverside starting with the bare 11 have one substitute not available for kick-off another injured and only to be risked in necessary. Bungay able to name 4 substitutes the visitors have the kick-off first half wearing and all away kit with white trim. Riverside playing on purple coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The hosts quick to charge the ball down Ines Monteiro charging it down in the centre taking the ball on through the middle stopped at the top of the area as Bungay’s centrebacks close the door. Bungay then caught offside trying to break with Riverside playing a high line.

   Leanne Smith getting control of the ball in the centre of the park for Bungay spreads play out to Nicola Hazell breaking into space on the left wing, taking the ball on up the line is tackled by Abigail Baker the ball out for a throw in as she attempts to cut inside. A long throw put in towards the edge of the area knocked down latched onto by Imogen McGregor her snap shot left of the D dragged wide of the near post. Rachel Burbridge puts the ball on over the top for Riverside, Monteiro looking to peel away in behind the full back just a little too early flagged offside.

Rachel Burbridge winning the ball for Riverside

  Bungay quick to turn play around as Hazell picks up possession on the left provides the ball for Smith this time coming on through the middle put on for McGregor racing into the box, Maxine Wren able to get hold of it first keeping goal for Riverside. Bungay are looking lively early on as they push on through the middle, Selina Rowland on for Smith up to McGregor top of the area looks to play in Shannon Dade getting forwards on the right her shot taking a deflection seeing a corner awarded. The ball in deep touched on safely into Wren’s gloves she looks to set up an attack Monteiro after ball fed into the left channel, Erin Galer defending for Bungay, the counter attack on played up to Dade right she drives forwards before unleashing a shot, Wren down safely gathering.

 GOAL! Play compacted at times in the centre of the pitch this allows Bungay to spring away in attack the pass through for Dade she is away taking it in right of goal 25 yards out lets fly with a shot similar to her effort moments ago only this time she puts the ball wide of the keeper into the bottom corner 0-1. 7 minutes played.

  An early lead for Bungay the hosts look for an immediate response, a good run forwards from full back Amelia Roberts gets her in behind to cross inside the area wrong footing the defence she looks to square the ball into the six yard box, too close to the goalkeeper as Joanne Pipe across to her near post claims the ball. Riverside continue to play a risky high line in defence catching Bungay offside almost turn it to their advantage as defender Elizabeth from just over halfway plays a inviting high ball in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence not dealing with it on the bounce Monteiro looks to be in the bounce her undoing too however as she can’t get her foot over the ball for a clean strike.

Amelia Roberts on the attack for Riverside Ladies

  Charnelle Riggall back playing again after being out for a long spell with the dreaded ACL in the middle today for Bungay puts a fantastic ball on for Hazell to chase puts a shot in across goal that is cleared by Riverside’s captain Tia Vacca. Bungay continue to press getting joy on both flanks Dade flashing another strike across the face of goal. 

 GOAL! Bungay double their advantage in 15 minutes winning a corner on the right, the delivery too high for the keeper to claim near post dropping into a congested 6 yard box several players go for it the ball stabbed home, Leanne Smith I think with the final touch 0-2.

  Riverside attack left Gabija Pavlova with great ball control taking the ball on lacks support as she is closed down. Bungay are winning the battle in midfield Riggall and Rowland with Smith prepared to bomb on, McGregor played tries to beat the keeper with a lobbed shot from 30 yards out the effort falling wide. Wren doing well for Riverside in the next Bungay attack coming out towards the top of her area with a good punch on the ball to deny McGregor a chance as Dade crosses from the right. Wren with more heroics in goal to deny Hazell a goal as she cuts inside from the left to have a strike inside the area Riverside’s keeper saving with her legs. 

Charnelle Riggall playing the ball for Bungay Town Ladies

  Bungay getting in behind as Riverside are caught up the pitch playing a good line at times catching their opponents offside on three or four occasions, Bungay are able to come on at will however McGregor providing some good runs in attack, Hazell and Dade left and right ready to go. McGregor attempting to lob the keeper once more sees another effort fall wide of the mark. Smith gets forwards into an attacking position as Hazell holds onto possession left side looking to get inside to shoot, Smith taking on the shot as the ball rolls lose a powerful shot has Wren diving the ball narrowly wide of her right post.

 GOAL! Smith sees Bungay into a 3 nil lead, the ball won somewhat painfully by Rowland in the middle of the park is put on into the path of Smith breaking forwards right she sends her shot wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-3. 25 minutes played.

  Monteiro chases down a ball put into the right channel cutting in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence converge closed down she lays it off to Kerry Camwell a yard away, she hits it hard, Bungay captain Charlotte Power turning to block. The ball not clear out left side a shot comes in from distance wide of the post. On the counter Bungay look a constant threat Smith through the middle, McGregor ahead of head, the latter away in attack is forced wide of goal by Vacca still manages to squeeze a shot in on the angle rising taken down well by Wren. 

GOAL! Bungay are creating the majority of the chances and as Power brings the ball out from the ball unchallenged they add a 4th the pass on for McGregor in attack the drives on with it forced out wide again nevertheless the cross finds its way unopposed across the six yard box and Smith is there unmarked to bring up her hat-trick from close range 0-4.

GOAL! Moments later it 5, Bungay with no effort easily turning defence into attack burst forwards the ball fed on to McGregor the young striker having come close with a number of chances gets her goal, moving right of goal, her shot taking a deflection inside the area off the defender attempting to block, sending it beyond the keeper into the back of the net. 0-5.

  Katie Walker defends at the back for Bungay following a ball headed on from Camwell that has Monteiro interested as she breaks into the area the defender getting the ball back to Pipe in goal. Riggall plays the ball up to Hazell left side she sends an inviting ball in across the face of goal McGregor can’t get a touch far post, Dade in behind does her shot in saved well be Wren moving across her goal.

GOAL! Bungay are on top no doubt about it as a 6th goal is recorded, McGregor running clear in behind no-one goes with her has time to way up her options, pick a spot Wren exposed by her defence can do little about it as the ball is placed wide of her and into the back of the goal from the top of the area 0-6.

  What follows is brutal (look away now).

GOAL! In quick succession Bungay add not 1, but 3 goals to run rampant at half-time. Smith scoring her 4th of the match as she gets on to support McGregor in attack the strike making a nuisance of herself on the ball not challenged as she takes the ball out to the left, cuts it back into Smith top of the box she sends a looping shot up over the keeper to score 0-7.

Leanne Smith amongst the goals for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st half

GOAL! Smith nets for a 5th time moments later Riverside losing their discipline totally not tracking her as she runs in behind with ease left of goal six yards out able to come back in across goal and pick her spot to slot home 0-8.

GOAL! Rowland gets in on the goal scoring for Bungay as they hammer home an already insurmountable advantage. Catching the defence static the midfielder is allowed to go on a natural goalscorer she gives the keeper no chance as she smashes the ball past her to score 0-9.

 Pipe forced into a late save at the close of the first half as Jess Hill from 25 yards out drives a low strike in towards goal.

  Half-time Riverside Ladies 0-9 Bungay Town Ladies

  Bungay in complete control a flurry of late goal making the task before Riverside impossible 9-0 down at half-time. The away side have been in control from start to finish getting players forwards at will the advantage in having played 6 games more than Riverside showing. The hosts shell shocked letting the scoreline get out of control a difficult 2nd half looms, what can be said. Got to go back to square on start all over again and try to build some positives.

  Riverside to kick-off the 2nd half. Bungay with a triple change, with Teo Ilie, Samantha Penman and Tracey Livingstone coming on for Riggall, Dade and Smith. Pavlova has come into a more central defensive midfield position for Riverside as they get the ball rolling. McGregor looks to get away in attack on the right, Vacca does well keeping with her to force her to attempt the cross in towards the top of the area then steps up well to leave her offside as the ball is returned.

  GOAL! Far from the start to the 2nd half Riverside would have wanted as they concede early, Livingstone looking to get away left inside the area winning a corner. Is a fantastic ball played in towards the top of the area by Bungay with Rowland rising unopposed left of the D, she plants her header across goal into the far corner for her 2nd of the game 0-10.

Bungay Town Ladies, Selina Rowland

GOAL! This game can be brutal at times an early goal 2nd half for Bungay quickly becomes 2 as they score an 11th. The ball fed out to the right sees Samantha Penman newly arrived to the action away to take the ball on into the area closing in on the six yard box ways up her options spots Livingstone running in far post squares the ball, no one with her Livingstone scores with a simple tap in 0-11.

  Riverside down to 10 as Camwell receives treatment. Vacca with some fantastic defending to stop Livingstone top of the area as the cross is swung in from the right. Camwell able to return. A quieter spell, much needed Riverside have been under the cosh but have had fleeting moments, they look like a side right at the start of pre-season the individual skill is visible but the team play needs alot of work. Hazell gets hold of the ball on the left whips a shot in towards goal for Bungay isn’t far over. 

GOAL! Bungay add to their scoreline and this goal is started and finished by Rowland to bring up her hat-trick albeit via an fortunate take from a misplaced goalkick, falling straight to the midfielder 30 yards out on the right she sends it on down the line for Penman ahead of her down the line Penman crosses the ball well, into the top of the area and who should be there but none other than Rowland, doesn’t get a clean connect on the ball but that works to her favours as the ball runs wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-12.

  Glimpses of what they can do from Riverside, Pavlova in the middle breaking the attack up much better, Hill on the ball out to Roberts getting forwards on the right sending a great cross in near post Camwell getting in front of her defender with a great turn and hit firing over. Riverside are ready to make a change Walker coming off, as Ella Gaston enters the field.

Riverside Ladies, Gabija Pavlova

  Bungay getting forwards a corner won on the left the delivery into the six yard box a shot blocked a pointblank range as Livingstone shoots inside the six yard box. Deflected out to Penman right she fires a ball back across the face of goal McGregor flinging herself forwards can’t get a touch. The ball still in play gather by Hazell on the left wing she fires over frustratingly.

Ella Gaston looking to get forwards for Riverside Ladies

GOAL! Hazell gets her chance however moments later as Bungay are awarded a penalty, no doubt as Penman is tripped inside the box. Hazell placing the ball on the spot, goes for power hitting the ball hard rising is over Wren has no chance 0-13.

Nicola Hazell smashes the ball in from the penalty spot

  Wren saving soon after as Livingstone scuffs a shot inside the box having been fed in by Ilie. Head naturally have dropped Riverside finding it tough going, Wren spurring then on they know they have been soundly beaten smiles are good to see, keep going. A corner flung in from the left for Bungay Livingstone with the stooping header far post Wren behind holding onto the ball. Ilie looks to combine with McGregor and Penman on the right, Vacca and Heagren doing well in defence get the ball away for Riverside.

Tia Vacca on the ball for Riverside Ladies

 Wren with another save as Rowland moving out to the left plays it through fro Livingstone in the box McGregor close by feeds her the ball, Wren saving at close range going to ground. 

GOAL! Brutal for Riverside as they concede another very unfortunate too, a back pass played to Wren she goes to clear inside her area her kick seeing the ball spin straight up into the air. Livingstone closing in alive to it pressure the striker sees the ball on into the back of the net as Wren is hurt colliding with the post 0-14. 

 Their keeper up but injured Wren is hobbling maintaining good spirits. Hill getting back tracks back well to slide in and deny McGregor as she shoots inside the area the ball out behind for a corner on the right. 

GOAL! The goals keep coming for Bungay taken short the cross coming in for McGregor positioned top of the box right side she lashes a shot in towards goal, Wren unsighted by a defender attempting to block in front of her both miss the ball finding its way in 0-15. 

Imogen McGregor

  Riverside keep battling away are in good spirits despite the scoreline, can do little else might aswell be positive, Wren can hardly move in goal now having taken a knock, Livingstone played in by McGregor, Baker stays with her sliding in to make the tackle the ball loose Hazell latches onto the shot blasting over, it just won’t happen from open play for her today. Penman sending a shot wide across goal in the closing moments.

Full time Riverside Ladies 0-15 Bungay Town Ladies

   A brutal scoreline for Riverside as Bungay Town Ladies advance in the Women’s FA Cup. Out performed their opponents but can only beat what’s in front of them. In good form in pre-season and far advanced than Riverside it showed as they cruised to victory and into the hat for the draw for the next round of the competition where they will have their fingers crossed for a home draw for a change having played 8 out of their previous FA Cup matches away from home with long trips to Essex and Northamptonshire amongst those. Played well, moved the ball and looked sharper. Fair play to Riverside kept going did improve 2nd half despite conceding better passages of play, a result to forget no doubt so it doesn’t help that some bloke from Norfolk turned up to write about it. Got to put it to bed move on can see the talent, this result will hit the belief but it’s just one game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Basically I’m going to discount the last hour of the match and focus on the opening 30 minutes. Early on Bungay got on top in midfield Charnelle Riggall and Selina Rowland winning the ball well, the driving runs and forwards passes of Leanne Smith making a huge difference plus 5 goals to her name giving her today’s award.

  These reports are hard to write, credit where credits due, Bungay played superbly but they themselves would admit they’d rather win a tight game 2-1. It is what it is however. I know Riverside can play better, they have featured in one of my favourite games on the old Supporting Women’s Football Blog afterall. Wishing both well for the new season ahead and thanks for the team sheets as ever.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 25/08/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th August

ERWFL Premier Division

The 2nd round of league fixtures to begin the ERWFL Premier Division this hot Bank Holiday Sunday, and for the 2nd weekend running we saw an eye watering scoreline. A 15-1 win for Colney Heath Ladies last time around against AFC Dunstable Women, Harlow Town Ladies went one better at home this Sunday with a comprehensive 16-1 result over fellow Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Newly promoted to the Premier Division, Bowers & Pitsea had started the season with a 3-2 win over fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies. Started well at Harlow opening the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes Sophie Dowman capitalising on a defensive error to put the visitors 1-0 up. Harlow came back to level 10 minutes later, 2 quick goals seeing them extend their lead Harlow added another 4 before half-time as Bowers & Pitsea struggled with the hot conditions. 

Harlow were to go on and rattle in another 9 goals in the 2nd half but despite the heavy scoreline were full of praise for Bowers & Pitsea’s spirit and endeavour. Harlow have made some strong additions over the summer and two of those opened there accounts with a hat-trick each, Georgia Box and Becky Shephard, Amy Nash also newly joined also getting her first goal for Harlow. Olivia Steele was also amongst the goals with a hat-trick. Tayla Handscombe and captain Kaydee King both netting a brace, their was also a goal each for Frances Gamble and last weekends scorer Bethany Chambers. Harlow up to fourth in the Premier Division table behind 3 sides still with 100% records.

Becky Shephard one of Harlow Town Ladies one of 3 players celebrating a hat-trick on Sunday (picture credit Gary Reed)

Colney Heath Ladies remain top thanks to their big win last Sunday were on the road this Sunday taking on Haringey Borough Women. A 9-0 opening day loss for the hosts on the opening day looked like they might hold Colney Heath to a goalless first half, Adrienne Milton played in to score late on to give the visitors the lead. Colney Heath with a threadbare squad doubled their lead early in the 2nd half with Samaira Khan newly joined from Dunstable on the end of a cross supplied by Milton to make it 2-0 adding another goal to the hat-trick secured on the opening day. Colney Heath keeping a clean sheet up the other end making it 2 wins from 2 to start the season.

Dionne Manning scoring a late winner away to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies on the opening day saw Luton Town Ladies with 3-2. This Sunday played their first home game of the season taking on Royston Town Women who had started the season with a 9-0 win at home to Haringey Borough Women. Looked to be heading for a goalless first period too Luton having created chances taking the lead in the 45th minute, Rebecca Wilson-Kane sending the ball into the bottom corner. The lead doubled with 12 minutes of the 2nd half gone a corner won Erica Byron sending the ball into the box Rachel Carter up highest to meet it and send a bullet header into the back of the net. 2-0 it remained heading into the final minute of the game Luton winning a penalty, Manning stepping up to score a confident finish adding a goal to her opening day hat-trick. Luton into 2nd courtesy of a 3-0 win.

A 3-0 home win too for Wroxham Women as they climb into 3rd with a 100% start beating Norfolk rivals Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday at Trafford Park. Grace Birchall top scoring for Wroxham (Acle as they were last season) with 33 goals, opened her account this season to put the hosts into the lead at half-time. On 65 minutes Wroxham got themselves into a 2-0 lead Birchall scoring her 2nd of the game heading in from a grace Parker free-kick, two minutes later from a corner Kate Pasque got her head to the ball to add a 3rd for the hosts and help secure a 3-0 victory.

Losing out to a last gasp winner at home on the opening day Peterborough Northern Star Ladies were away this Sunday travelling to Westwood Road to play newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies. Leah Cudone adding quality to an already capable attack getting her account for the season open to put Peterborough into an early lead cutting in from the left to send a shot home. Katie Steward double the advantage in the 17th minute as she scored direct from a corner. St Ives came close to pulling a goal back midway through the first half Sarah Hudson making a fantastic diving save to keep the ball out. Leading 2-0 at half-time St Ives continued to battle looking for a reply didn’t come as Peterborough made the points secure with 10 minutes left, Emma Pollards looping ball from outside the area adding to the 2 she scored on the opening day.

A heavy defeat to start their ERWFL Premier Division campaign last Sunday, AFC Dunstable Women were on the road once again this Sunday albeit not far as they faced local rivals Bedford Ladies who themselves suffered a narrow 2-1 loss at home to Wroxham on the opening day. Priya Bhatti with the Bedford goal then, she added another to her tally against Dunstable with 4 more opening their accounts for the hosts with Setor Acolatse, Jasmine Ajayi, Charlotte Demmon and Mathilda Fidler all on the scoresheet in a 5-1 win. Sydney Webb finding the back of the net for Dunstable.

 

 

The Round-Up – FAWNL 25/08/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

  Into the 2nd weekend of the FAWNL season and the attention moves to the League Cup competitions with the now traditional Determining Round, all sides across the six divisions drawn together with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup the losing sides the FAWNL Plate. Always throws up some intriguing ties and some unexpected results. This Sunday played in sweltering temperatures right across the country. 14 ties featuring sides playing in the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One.

Women’s Football East was at one of those ties with a trip to Letchworth and The County Ground home of the Hertfordshire FA and now South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women as they hosted Southern Premier Division side Yeovil Town Women. Last season a fully professional outfit playing in the FAWSL, financial struggles seeing them not only relegated from tier one but no licence given for a place in the Championship. Now though a much brighter outlook for Yeovil as they begin life in the Southern Premier Division, with new ownership hopefully spurring on a resurgence. 

 Incredibly hot Letchworth boasting a brand new 3G playing surface with plenty of rubber underfoot. A few missing for Stevenage as Yeovil quickly got on the front foot, goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis keeping Yeovil at bay until the 20th minute Kelly Aldridge linking with Sarah Wiltshire on the left seeing captain Annie Heatherson set up to blast in a shot from outside the area to make it 1-0. A flowing move from back to front bringing up the 2nd Heatherson long out to Wiltshire left she playing the early ball through the middle as Meesha Dudley-Jones breaks into the area to score. Quickly 3-0 as Aldridge is upended inside the area for a penalty Wiltshire opening up her body with a composed finish. Yeovil dominating the first half leading 3-0.

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

Te’a Oldroyd replacing Vandersluis in the Stevenage goal at half-time, was soon picking the ball up out of the back of her net as Dudley-Jones stole in to win the ball off the defence and take it on into the box to shoot and score 4-0. Dudley-Jones capitalising from a knock down from a corner to smash the ball in a close range to make it 5-0 and complete her hat-trick. The ball in the back of the net as Wiltshire ghosted in between defenders from a free-kick to fire home but was quick to hold her hands up and admit to handling the ball to get into a shooting position. Mattered little as Wiltshire had a 2nd moments later no doubt about this one jinking left and right wide left before sending a long range shot into the top corner. Stevenage forced to go down to 10 with injuries mounting and all subs used Yeovil were on top and Megan Wood put through on goal scored a 7th late on. A convincing result to cap a dominant performance. The full match report can be found below this post.

Elsewhere there was a notable giant killing on Sunday as Cambridge City Ladies newly promoted to the FAWNL South East Division One beat Chichester City Ladies who recorded a 3rd place finish in the Southern Premier Division. A trip down south for Cambridge City knew they would be up against it short on numbers having only the bare 11 available. Working hard on the heat to keep Chichester out Cambridge City scored two quickfire goals on the half hour through Beatrice Fitzsimons and Charlotte Gillies to lead 2-0 at the break. Chichester responding with a triple change at half-time put in an improved 2nd half performance but Cambridge hit them on the counter attack early in the 2nd half and with the keeper off her line Megan Tonks scores to put the visitors 3-0 ahead. Chichester pushed as City held firm a stunning strike from 30 yards from Chichester captain Megan Fox puling a goal back with 10 minutes left on the clock not enough a Cambridge City held out for a memorable win.

An all Southern Premier Division tie saw Watford Ladies travelling down to the South Coast for the 2nd time to face Portsmouth FC Women. A 2-0 away win for the Golden Girls on the opening day. A different story this time around Portsmouth creating opportunities in regular play seeing an effort ruled out for offside, Helen Ward coming close for Watford it remained goalless after 90 minutes the game heading to extra-time. The deadlock broken by the hosts a Tamsin De Bungen fired in a shot from the edge of the area to make it 1-0 in the first period. The lead doubled Rebecca Bath smashing in a shot off the underside of the bar saw Portsmouth progress the the Cup proper winning 2-0.

   Cardiff City Ladies were at South West Division One side Maidenhead United Ladies in this Sunday’s Determining Round. The Southern Premier Division making a great start as Grace Horrell headed them into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A screamer from Chloe Lloyd seeing the lead doubled in the 21st minute. Simone O’Brien scoring for the hosts late in the first half to see Maidenhead trailing 2-1 at half-time. Cardiff restoring their 2 goal lead in the 2nd half with Kelly Issac scoring from long range. The visitors awarded a penalty Cori Williams scoring from the spot made it 4-1 before Lloyd scored another screamer to see the game won 5-1.

 Keynsham Town Ladies newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division were playing their 1st game of the season on Sunday as they hosted Buckland Athletic Women form South West Division One in the Determining Round. The visitors taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes with Sarah Stacey finding the back of the net. Keynsham getting back on level terms just past the half hour with Annys Turner grabbing the goal to make it 1-1. That how it remained deep into the game the winning goal coming in the 84th minute, Libby Piggott celebrating the goal as Keynsham claimed a 2-1 victory.

An 84th minute goal was also enough to clinch victory in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup for Crawley Wasps Ladies as the newly promoted side travelled to fellow Southern Premier Division opponents Oxford United Women who were also playing their first competitive match of the season. 18 goals for their captain Naomi Cole last season on their way to the South East Division One title, Cole scoring late on this Sunday to make it 2 wins from 2.

Another giant killing in the South West as Southern Premier Division side Plymouth Argyle Ladies were beaten in a 7 goal thriller against local rivals Exeter City Women newly promoted to South West Division One. A few missing for Plymouth they fell behind in the 18th minute as Exeter’s Anthea Kaptein fired home to make it 1-0. Plymouth drawing back level on the half hour with Amber Pollock on target. Exeter scoring in the closing moments of the first half to lead 2-1 at the break Kaptein netting her 2nd of the game. Plymouth making a bright start to the 2nd half straight back on level terms Jessie Jones scoring to make it 2-2. The visitors though were to concede almost straight away as Abbie Britton put Exeter back into the lead for the 3rd time in the match. Kaptein completing her hat-trick midway through the 2nd half giving Exeter a valuable 2 goal cushion. Pollock scoring her 2nd of the match making it 4-3, Plymouth couldn’t find another however as Exeter recorded a memorable win.

A positive 3-0 away win to start their season, Milton Keynes Dons Women were on the road once again this Sunday along the M4 to take on Swindon Town Ladies in the Determining Round. Looked to be heading for a goalless scoreline at half-time before Louise Naylor won the ball up the pitch and her cross into the box was nodded in at the far post by Amy Gooderham to make it 1-0 to the Southern Premier Division side. Leah Littlechild then struck twice in the 2nd half to see Milton Keynes in full control of the tie lobbing the keeper in the 60th minute her 2nd a half volley into the top corner to make it 3-0 with 15 minutes left. Mia Chiarizia’s cross in towards goal deflected in to the goal to see the tie won 4-0.

Essex side Billericay Town Ladies were playing host to South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies in Sunday’s Determining Round. Billericay runners-up in South East Division One last season getting off to a fantastic start a brilliant ball from Sophie Vale turned in by Karissa Rodney. More chances came for the hosts, Cheltenham though where to get back on level terms on 22 minutes Sally Butterflied heading home to make it 1-1. The honours even at the break Billericay retaking the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd period winning a penalty, Danica Dougal making no mistake from the spot to put the hosts 2-1 up. The lead extended midway through the 2nd half with Jay Blackie on target to see Billericay to a 3-1 win.

A long trip to the South Coast for South East Division One side, Ipswich Town Women in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday taking on Southampton FC from South West Division One. A strong first half from the hosts setting up victory as Ella Pusey put Southampton into the lead on 16 minutes. Sophie Pharoah doubling the advantage just before the half hour two goals late in the first half from Alisha Ware seeing Southampton lead 4-0 at the break. Phoebe Williams netting a 5th goal 15 minutes into the 2nd half so after Ware brought up her hat-trick to see Southampton win 6-0.

Elsewhere there were a host of tie featuring an all South East Division One line up. The game between Actonians Ladies and AFC Wimbledon Ladies abandoned in the 90th minute with the sides drawing 1-1 due to an injury to an Actonians player an ambulance required. Have no further news will update if I learn more can only wish the player involved well and hope it’s not too serious.

Opening day away wins for both Enfield Town Ladies and Norwich City Ladies in the league they met in the cup this Sunday with Norwich making the trip down to Donkey Lane. Enfield making a bright start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes with Katherine Long firing them into the lead with her 2nd of the season. A narrow advantage at half-time. Enfield doubled the lead in the 57th minute Laura Baker scoring the late winner against Cambridge United last Sunday also on target with her 2nd goal of the season for her new club. Enfield winning 2-0.

Katherine Long scored the opening goal in Enfield’s 2-0 win over Norwich

   Also a 2-0 scoreline as Kent Football United newly promoted to the FAWNL South East Division One played at home for the first time competitively this season against AFC Basildon Women. The victory going to the visitors from Essex as they edged out Kent Football United to progress the the FAWNL Cup proper.

Extra-time and a 7 goal thriller in the final match to bring you from this Sunday’s Determining Round games, Cambridge United WFC heading down to London to play Leyton Orient WFC. Played in sweltering heat it was the visitors who opened the scoring with Kelley Blanchflower finding the back of the net in the 10th minute. Otesha Charles getting Leyton Orient back on level terms in the 19th minute. That remained the scoreline at half-time. Cambridge getting their noses in front early in the 2nd period with Faith Hewitt scrambling the ball home from a corner. The lead though lasting just 3 minutes a stunning half volley from Michelle Young from outside the area making it 2-2. Charles put through to score her 2nd of the game saw Leyton Orient lead 3-2. Cambridge battling away forcing extra-time with a goal at the death of normal time Mollie Coupar with the finish. Late heartbreak for Cambridge last weekend it was another crushing late goal deep into extra-time that saw Leyton Orient clinch victory a corner put in deep Ellie Stanning rising at the back post heading the ball down inside the post to win the game.

A hot weekend some great performances no one out at this stage we await the draws for both competitions.

 

 

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Yeovil Town Women

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

 A trip down to Letchworth this Sunday for a match form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women taking on Yeovil Town Women from the Southern Premier Division.

  The Determining Round now a traditional part of the FAWNL calendar the sides from all six divisions drawn against each other with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup itself the losing sides entering the Plate competition. 

  The draw throwing up many intriguing ties right across the country, can be hard to chose one but settled on this one early on. 

  Stevenage have established themselves within the FAWNL, now linking up with the Stevenage FC Foundation the club has changed name from Stevenage Ladies to Stevenage FC Women to reflect the growing trend within the sport. An large influx of new signings for both the 1st and Development team as the club looks to push on. Amongst the newcomers joining are Lisa Nixon from Luton Town Ladies and striker Jenny Nagle from AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A goal conceded in the 88th minute last Sunday saw Stevenage lose their opening day fixture 2-1 to Actonians Ladies.

 A new beginning to of sorts for Yeovil Town too, albeit one they would have preferred to be somewhere else. One of the founding members of an all professional FAWSL the club struggled to find investment and that brought difficulties that impacted upon their season finishing bottom. An application to join the Championship turned down by the FA the club were relegated back to the FAWNL. Since then investment has come in with Adam Murry becoming the clubs new owner. Re-branded too as Yeovil Town Women. A brighter outlook awaits a positive future for a club that has always been a committed force to women’s football in the South West. Always enjoyed my trips down to Somerset to watch them in my FAWSL supporting days. The squad has seen a few departures but experience has been added with the likes of Dan Carlton and Sarah Wiltshire who returns to Yeovil after playing for Tottenham Hotspur Women. Top the Southern Premier Division after the opening fixtures last Sunday winning 9-0 away to the newly created Hounslow Women.

  The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, the home of the Hertfordshire FA, Stevenage’s 1st team will be playing their home matches there this season. The ground undergoing development, first off a brand new 3G playing surface and surround. Alot of rubber laid in it’s construction. A new bar and clubhouse layout too with plenty of potential for more improvements to come. A blisteringly hot August bank Holiday Sunday, 30 plus degrees a blue sky the sun bright, the 3G pitch only adding to the temperature. I’m wearing shorts and I only do that if I absolutely have too! Enjoying it while it lasts however. 

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Kristi Burling, Leah Dunnage, Dominique Godbeer, Amy Notschild, Nicole Dunbar, Cara Breckenridge, Lisa Dixon, Amy Makewell (C), Louise Godden & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Te’a Oldroyd, Hayley Wood-Thompson & Mickie Palfreman.

Yeovil Town Women starting XI – Beth Howard, Harriet Lambe, Rebecca Halford, Thierry-Jo Gauvain, Jodie Chubb, Annie Heatherson (C), Dan Carlton, Kelly Aldridge, Sarah Wiltshire, Megan Wood & Meesha Dudley-Jones. Subs – Elena Pearce, Charlotte Buxton, Alexis Bussell, Maya Ridge & Rosie Kirby.

  It’s Yeovil wearing an all yellow away kit to get the match underway kicking off 1st half. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing white and pale red vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. The hosts with a few players unavailable, 5 new signings in today’s squad with, Lisa Nixon, Nicole Dunbar, Leah Dunnage and Louise Godden all starting, Mickie Palfremian on the bench. Stevenage press straight away forcing Yeovil to play the ball back to their defence, played forwards into Yeovil captain Annie Heatherson on halfway she plays a superb long pass out to Sarah Wiltshire over on the left she sends it on through the middle looking to pick out Kelly Aldridge making a run, Hannah Vandersluis with a good starting position top of her area able to gather the ball first.

   Nixon gets hold of the ball in midfield for Stevenage picks out Dunnage bursting on down the left win looks to take the ball infield his clipped and brought down by Yeovil full back Rebecca Halford  a free-kick awarded just outside the area despite her protests. Nixon over it players forwards she squares it towards Godden in a central position she opens up her body attempting to slip it on for Dunnage, Heatherson having read the move tracking Dunnage back on her to put in the tackle regain possession outside the six yard box.

  Yeovil counter attack rapidly the ball taken out wide right a cross flung into the area headed out for a throw. Dan Carlton picks the ball up from the throw right travels infield 30 yards out a one two made with Heatherson, Carlton strikes the ball runs wide of the Stevenage goal. Yeovil have quickly settled winning the ball high play turned around quickly a pass put into the feet of Megan Wood right of goal strikes a low shot in towards goal Vandersluis diving is beaten the ball cannoning off the base of the post. 

Yeovil’s Rebecca Halford with Stevenage’s Louise Godden

  Dunnage with a heavy impact with the surface as she brings the ball out for defence allows Yeovil in behind, Meesha Dudley-Jones sending a high cross into the area Vandersluis making a confident claim. Yeovil’s attacking players harassing the Stevenage defence keep the pressure on. Space opens up on the right for full back Halford to run into given the ball cuts it into Aldridge top of the box her touch taking the ball on into the area ,Dominique Godbeer stays on her shoulder to clear for Stevenage.

  Twisting and turning on the ball outside the area left of goal Wiltshire sets herself to shoot, Godbeer backing off gives herself time to get into position to block the effort.  The danger not cleared a 2nd shot made left of the D driven in low Vandersluis down low to her right saves pushing the ball behind for a corner. A good delivery from the left in high Aldridge up inside the box towards the back post heading the ball into the ground goes after the loose ball herself a stab with her boot deflecting it goalwards rising a smart save from Vandersluis. 

Kelly Aldridge making the tackle

 Is very hot out there the sun beating down. Yeovil despite that are looking sharp at the start of the game continue to attack another corner won left swept into the area falling invitingly inside the six yard box a Stevenage boot making vital contact to launch clear. Aldridge receiving the ball central 25 yards out from goal attempt to play Wiltshire in behind cutting in from the left, Vandersluis sliding in sending up a cloud of rubber balls doing enough to put the attacker off.

 Stevenage attacks rare Nicole Emmings leading the line having very little to feed on, Godden getting up in support when she can, an attack broken up the ball cleared up to Heatherson sees Dudley-Jones moving away into space on the right the pass on the money taken in her stride Dudley-Jones bares down on goal shooting low near post saved by Vandersluis.

    Godden a willing runner given half a chance for Stevenage, captain Amy Makewell playing the ball on through the middle she goes after it, Jodie Chubb dealing with the threat comfortably for Yeovil in the centre of defence playing it back to goalkeeper Beth Howard, Godden stays alert the kick out striking her inside the six yard box could have gone anywhere, the rebound however favouring Howard coming straight back at her to get hold of. 

Stevenage’s Lisa Nixon

 Harriet Lambe at left back for Yeovil plays the ball up field Wiltshire with support for Dudley-Jones left side outside the box, lays the ball back to Dudley-Jones hits it well enough low in towards goal straight at Vandersluis however. 20 minutes played. Yeovil are getting closer Wiltshire has the ball glued to her feet as she jinks and twists avoiding challenges on the left outside the box eventually making room for a shot her looping ball striking the crossbar. 

  GOAL! The pressure Yeovil have applied eventually tells as they open the scoring. Aldridge linking up with Wiltshire on the left in attack combination play seeing the ball fired into the area blocked Aldridge back to Wiltshire she squares it to Heatherson central her shot flying in past the diving keeper 0-1.

Yeovil Town Women captain, Annie Heatherson with the opening goal

  Time for drinks, a break in play called. Stevenage make a change, Hayley Wood-Thompson on for Dunnage. Stevenage look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball played into the left channel, Godden after it, Thierry-Jo Gauvain going back with her tackling and winning the ball in the corner. Stevenage keep the ball alive in the final third players up a set-piece lifted into the area the ball knocked down to the top of the area, Nixon top of the D gets her foot up over the top of the ball to strike a shot back in Chubb blocking for Yeovil.

   Wiltshire lines up a shot from distance the strike tipped up over the bar by Vandersluis. A corner on the left defended by Dunnage at the near post. Stevenage can’t break Heatherson supported by Carlton winning the midfield battle. Wiltshire drifting into a central position plays a great ball on for Dudley-Jones away on the left she lifts a cross into the far post, Wood getting a toe on it lifts it over, the flag up against her. 

Yeovil Town Women’s Thierry-Jo Gauvain

  Makewell looks to play Godden away down the left in attack for Stevenage Gauvain pacey back to defend against her sets up the counter attack the ball through the middle into the feet of Wiltshire outside the area left side no power behind the shot comfortably caught by Vandersluis. Wood away right side into the box under challenge gets a shot away saved Aldridge central attempts to score, a glove from the keeper puts it wide for a corner. Stevenage struggle to clear their lies Yeovil all over them Carlton gets a shot away from distance lacks power Vandersluis down to gather. The Stevenage keeper very busy making another double save as the ball is struck at close range. 

 GOAL! Yeovil have a 2nd goal and it’s a great move from back to front, Heatherson on the ball deep her pass out long for Wiltshire left her diagonal ball sending Dudley-Jones through on goal, central strikes it early the shot driven n past the diving goalkeeper 0-2.

  GOAL! Two quickly becomes three! Yeovil awarded a penalty as Aldridge pressing into the area left of goal is upended. Wiltshire placing the ball on the spot a well taken penalty opening up her body to lift the ball wide of the keeper to score 0-3. 

Sarah Wiltshire scoring from the penalty spot.

  A hammer blow for Stevenage they get a free-kick up the other end wide left as Burling breaks forwards trying to link with Godden. Nixon to play the ball into the top of the area, Burling attempting to flick on can’t connect as Yeovil see it safely into the gloves of their keeper. Wiltshire remains a threat out wide or cutting inside no one can stay with her, free in behind Vandersluis takes a risk sliding in well outside her box the ball spinning in behind Wiltshire keeps her footing after it the angle against her as she is closed down fires her shot across the empty goal. 

  Burling with another foray forwards for Stevenage cuts inside the ball defended loose Nixon latches onto it 30 yards out sends a high ball in towards goal, Howard needing to keep an eye on it back on her line sees it over. Up the other end Dudley-Jones stealing the ball off the defence sees a shot whip up over the bar. Wood right drives on with the ball for Yeovil squares it into Aldridge top corner of the area runs on  past her for Dudley-Jones behind she curls a shot past the near post.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-3 Yeovil Town Women

  A dominant first half display from Yeovil sees them leading Stevenage 3-0 at the break. Having created a host of chances eventually opened the scoring midway through the first half. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of fantastic saves to keep her side in in 2 quick fire goals late in the half putting Yeovil in the driving seat. Have moved the ball well and runs off it have been superb through the half despite the heat out there in reply thier defence has been little troubled. 

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

  Stevenage making a double change at the start of the 2nd half, Mickie Palfreman on for Notschild in defence and a change of goalkeeper too as Vandersluis is replaced by Te’a Oldroyd, a baseball cap adorning her head as the high sun faces her goal 2nd half. A switch of sides for me too 2nd half need some shade myself. Alot for Stevenage to do if they are to try and get something from the game. The hosts kicking off the 2nd period. Yeovil however are straight into the attack the ball won played wide to Wiltshire left a shot from distance dropping wide across goal. Palfremian in to clear the ball in the heart of defence as another cross is whipped in close to goal form the left.

Stevenage’s Mickie Palfreman

 GOAL! Just what Stevenage would have wanted to avoid as they conceded a fourth goal right at the start of the 2nd half. Caught in possession at the back in front of the D, Dudley-Jones nicks the ball drives on into the box and sends her shot in under the newly arrived keeper 0-4.

  Yeovil starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st get the ball forwards at will, Wiltshire with a diagonal ball left side on for Heatherson moving forwards she crosses into the six yard box Aldridge closing in forcing a save from Oldroyd at pointblank range. Stevenage attempt to counter Breckenridge on for Makewell central on for Emmings in attack, Godden supplying a good run to her left the pass towards her Godden takes it deep before crossing disappointingly into the side netting. A great first touch from Palfreman at the back for Stevenage looks to have put Godden through in behind on the left only for her attack to be thwarted by a raised flag.

   Palfreman making an impact at the back for Stevenage winning challenges sends the ball up field Godden looking to get after it, Gauvain keeping with her defending for Yeovil in the final third. The visitors break quickly as they have all game Dudley-Jones away on the right, whips a vicious cross in across goal Wiltshire close in attacking the far post doesn’t get the contact she wants heavy allows the Stevenage defence to clear. Halford bursting into space on the right side as Aldridge spots her run the cross delivered near post Wiltshire advanced again to attack it under challenge fires wide.

Yeovil attack shows no relenting Dudley-Jones a threat on the right sending a ball in across the six yard box Aldridge throwing a leg at it can’t connect. Wiltshire is everywhere in attack finding herself free in a central position top of the area hits a rising ball in towards goal, a top class save from Oldroyd gloves it up over the bar. 

  GOAL! From the resulting corner Yeovil extend their lead the ball fired in fast near post deflected down into the ground falls to the feet of Dudley-Jones to strike hard from six yards out through feet giving the keeper no chance and complete her hat-trick 0-5.

A hat-trick for Yeovil Town Women’s Meesha Dudley-Jones

   Has been a frustrating afternoon for Emmings in attack for Stevenage the ball played forwards to the right the striker makes a determined run to get forwards flashing a cross from deep across the face of goal, Halford tracking back with Godden swinging a foot to clear the ball before it can be attacked the corner conceded. The ball in a great one falling into the six yard box Yeovil fail to clear an instinctive header from Emmings close in only succeeds in putting it straight into Howard’s gloves.

Nicole Emmings forcing her way forwards for Stevenage

  Oldroyd with another brilliant save as Yeovil mount an attack on the left Wood crossing square to Aldridge who tees up Heatherson to shoot from 25 yards out the ball in low Oldroyd down t stop it. Yeovil make their first change of the match with Aldridge coming off to be replace by Maya Ridge.

  A free-kick inside the Stevenage half for Yeovil presents a further opportunity to attack the box Carlton on the ball lifting it in towards the top of the area, Wiltshire ghosting in between defenders getting a touch to set it up and shoot across the keeper and score, Stevenage immediately appealing for handball! Nothing given by the officials, a moments hesitation between her first and second touches Wiltshire sportingly admits to handling the ball, an action to be applauded and play resumes with a goal kick.

 GOAL! That said a moment later Wilshire is celebrating a goal scored beautifully with her feet, no question about it a fantastic strike as she gets onto the ball wide left isn’t closed down on the angle strikes it well across the keeper from distance and into the top corner 0-6.

  Wiltshire continues to be a threat played in on goal closing down the keeper left side she manages to avoid her diving challenge in behind, Burling gets back on her to make the tackle before she can craft a shot. Wood has support from Halford getting in the clear right side sends in a cross near post Wiltshire close in smashes a rising shot against the bar as Oldroyd leaps grounded the keeper recovers fantastically getting in the way to save as Dudley-Jones coming in far side smashes the ball against her.

Rebecca Halford looking for options for Yeovil Town Women

  Another drinks break called, an injury to Godbeer is unable to continue leaving Stevenage with just 10 on the field. Yeovil make a change Wiltshire coming off Alexis Bussell. 20 minutes left to play. Play resumes Dudley-Jones is put away right side shooting sees her attempt bounce wide across goal.

  GOAL! Halford bringing the ball on down the right miscues her forwards ball intended for Wood down the line instead goes central into Carlton she reacts well aware of Wood’s run flicks the ball out to her charging into the box Wood takes a touch a smashes it over the keeper into the top corner 0-7.

 Yeovil make their final change with Rosie Kirby coming on to replace Halford at right back. Has all been Yeovil have maintained high energy levels despite the heat their younger players encouraged well by the more experienced. Into the final 6 minutes of the game Stevenage are tired been a tough afternoon. Dudley-Jones has pace to burn in behind blasts another effort wide across goal. Carlton with a break forwards with the ball encouraged to go on attempts to lob the keeper her effort falling wide of goal. 

Yeovil Town Women midfielder, Dan Carlton

  Breckenridge back in defence now blocking at the near post as Wood wide left drives a low cross into the box. Bussell beating the offside trap in the closing moments played in by Carlton in central plays her strike wide of goal. The final whistle blowing soon after and everyone can retreat to the shade.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 0-7 Yeovil Town Women

  A comprehensive result for Yeovil Town Women as they dominated from start to finish to beat Stevenage 7-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. often a strange game as no one actually exits at this point just know what trophy you will be fighting for. That said a huge confidence boost for Yeovil nevertheless 16 goals scored in two matches. A good performance in soaring temperatures, well worked goals further chances created. Great movement on and off the ball bodes well going into the season. On the flip side a day to forget for Stevenage never got going shaky at the back little to offer in attack must go down as a bad day at the office and galvanise them going forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as you might expect today’s contenders are all from Yeovil. I thought Kelly Aldridge was superb and the driving force early on that set the tome for the visitors with some great attacking runs and interplay. Sarah Wiltshire could have had 5 or 6 goals today created numerous opportunities and she’s a nightmare for defenders to track as she drifts in almost unnoticed at times. Great close control with the ball always looking for an opening. Just edging it though is Meesha Dudley-Jones her movement up front and coming in from the right just as superb netting a hat-trick and like Wiltshire should have had more.

  I’m not a hot weather person but I’m not going to knock it, an enjoyable trip to Letchworth today, the Determining Round is always an intriguing fixture in the football calendar. My thanks to both sides with their help today.