Another condensed version of The Round-Up for the county leagues this week with just 11 games played across all the leagues covered by Women’s Football East this Easter Sunday.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Starting in Norfolk, just two fixtures left to play with one on those taking place this weekend seeing Sprowston Athletic Ladies at home to Beccles Town Ladies, both sides promoted to Division One this season, will meet again in a fortnight in the League Plate final. Mixed fortunes with Beccles hit by injuries all season finishing bottom, Sprowston Athletic ending on a high results picking up towards the latter half of the season overhaul Bungay Town Ladies to secure a top half finish ending up in 4th place courtesy of a 5-0 win, K Welsh scoring a brace in the game with goals too for Keri Boorman, Melissa Belsey and Olivia Leggett in a 5-0 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
In Norfolk Women’s Division Two, Taverham Women United are the Champions getting the point they needed to seal the title away to Hockering Ladies in their final game of the season this Easter Sunday. A fantastic achievement for the club playing their first ever season of women’s football have led the way for much of the season a long winning run, just the one defeat late on to dent the record. All under 18 bar one have kept getting the results despite some strong sides their to challenge. Hockering Ladies sadly short on players as they have been for most of the season battling on a creditable effort form everyone. 9 players against Taverham the visitors a handful at the best of times got into a 5-0 lead comfortable the title secured opted to drop down to 9 themselves to match Hockering a noble gesture didn’t stoop the goals as they added a further 5 to win the game 10-0. Three players netting a brace, Hannah Artis, Maya Lawlor and Tiegan Robinson with Jasmin Snelling, Lucy Staff, Summer Rogers and Abbie Walker all getting a goal each. Staff and Snelling with their first goals of the season.
Taverham Women United, Division Two Champions
Congratulations to Taverham Women United on winning the Norfolk Women’s Division Two title.
The only side to defeat Taverham in the league this season were Tavern Ladies. Coming on strong towards the end of the season themselves victory at home to Fakenham Town Ladies on Sunday seeing them move into 2nd position and pole position for clinching the runners-up spot. A 4-0 defeat to Fakenham on the opening day of the season Tavern have been behind the top three in part due to a run in the league cup that has seen them reach their first ever final. Tavern’s winning streak now reaching 10 wins in all competitions scoring plenty of goals along the way too. Fakenham needing the points themselves to put them into 2nd it was Tavern holding the advantage at half-time leading the game 2-0 the hosts went on to win the game 5-1. Atlanta Griffith scoring a brace to move onto 23 goals for the season, Katie Hart-Copsey adding another goal to her staggering 51 goal tally. Nicole Costin also getting a goal for Tavern to take her into double figures for the season an own goal too.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game in Cambridgeshire at the weekend from the Championship North, leaders Ketton Ladies at home to bottom side Pinchbeck United Ladies. Ketton extending their 100% winning record to 12 games to go 6 points clear at the top courtesy of a 2-0 win with the usual suspects on target for a goal each, Fran Kavanagh scoring her 45th goal of the season With Claire Lawrenson finding the back of the net for her 26th of the campaign.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
Essex saw the most league action at the weekend with five matches played. Sadly however there is some sad news to report from the league with Brentwood Town Ladies withdrawing from the Premier Division late in the campaign, no doubt a tough call to make, bottom of the league knew they were going to find it a challenge having been promoted despite a 4th placed finish last season, 11 losses have struggled to find a team on several weekends, with less than 75% of their fixtures played their results are expunged meaning adjustment to the table and some sides losing up to 6 points previously gained. Wishing everyone involved with Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves side all the best for the future.
Three games played in the Premier Division on Easter Sunday. Leigh Ramblers Ladies returning to the top of the table winning away from home against Silver End United Ladies who were playing their last game of the season. Amy Jacobs scoring a brace has 16 goals now for Leigh Ramblers from 9 appearances. Emily Diwell also on the scoresheet with Leigh Ramblers running out 3-0 winners. Leigh Ramblers a point clear of 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies with a game in hand.
Collier Row Tigers are now 3rd in the adjusted Premier Division table and with games home and away against Leigh Ramblers to come could yet have a say in the title race with 4 games left to play. Won the 3 points at home this Easter Sunday against Southend United Ladies. Top scorer Laura Bunton hitting a brace moving onto 33 goals for the season with Emma Harrison and Natalie Oxby also getting a goal apiece in a 4-1 win, Emily Pert scoring for Southend.
A point behind Collier Row Tigers in 4th spot Harlow Town Ladies Development also have 4 league games left. Were big winners away from home on Sunday taking on Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Leading 2-0 at half-time Harlow ran riot in the 2nd half to score a further 7 goals to win the game 9-1. Hannah Smith, top scorer on target for another hat-trick has 29 goals for the season now. Ellie Nicholls with a brace has 18 for the season. Also on target for a brace was Hariot Douglas her first goals for Harlow in just her 2nd appearance. Maisy Wyer and Poppy Binding with a goal each also scoring.
Essex Women’s Division One
Home wins awarded for earlier games called of now taking effect, Billericay Town Ladies return to the top of Essex Women’s Division One, ahead of Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies on goal difference. Nothing Dagenham & Redbridge can do having completed their fixtures but they are now sandwiched between the title contenders, with Rayleigh Town Ladies moving up to 3rd awarded points and winning at home this Easter Sunday against Runwell Sports Ladies who were playing their final game of the season. 51 goals for the season too for Isabelle Wallings scoring at the weekend with Sophie Rhodes making it 2 from 2 appearances for Rayleigh as they won the game 2-1. Danielle Dorrington scoring for Runwell who finish with 10 victories and 10 losses but just 27 points with a 3 point deduction.
The title battle between Billericay Town Ladies Reserves and Rayleigh Town Ladies, One game left for Billericay away to Rayleigh this coming Sunday 3 points the gap, Billericay win it they will be champions, draw and they will almost certainly be there with a far superior goal difference. A win for Rayleigh however and we have a 3 way tie at the top on 48 points. A point then for Rayleigh in their final game of the season away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves will see them clinch the title… a huge game on Sunday.
One other game played in Essex Women’s Division One this Easter Sunday with Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves beating Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves 3-1 away from home to climb up to 7th in their final game of the season, ending on a high thanks to a brace from Kelsey Honeywood and a goal for Millie Richards.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Two games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this weekend both featuring Garston Ladies as the 1st team and 2nd XI met in a double header to get their games in towards the end of the season. 6 points up for grabs. Garston’s 2nd XI bottom of the table for much of the campaign finishing strong with 4 wins coming in their last 5 league matches. Charley Kesley with a brace along with a goal for Holly Jury her 10th of the season seeing them win one match 3-0. In the other game Kelsey was also on target for another goal to take her tally to 12 for the campaign. Top scorer Ruby Jager scoring a brace too has 15 for the season a closer game this time around with Garston’s 2nd XI edging it 3-2 the 6 points seeing them climb up to 6th in the table with 3 games left to play.
Newmarket Town Ladies were hosting Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies this Easter Sunday as they met in the semi-finals of the ERWFL League Plate a week after meeting in the league itself. Annabel Cuthbert scoring a hat-trick to win the game 3-2 for 10 player Newmarket the wining goal scored with just 20 seconds left to play. At Newmarket meeting in the cup, Histon Ladies awaiting the winner. Newmarket making a positive start to the game few chances from open play for both sides Newmarket shooting wide across goal looking a threat from set-pieces Jess Linger good from dead ball situations coming close with one strike from distance putting Newmarket into the lead late in the first half a shot from 35 yards out getting the faintest of touches from keeper not enough as it smashed against the crossbar and over the line.
Newmarket 1-0 up at half-time dealt well with Hoddesdon in the 2nd half a hot day, the score remained 1-0 for much of the 2nd half Newmarket looking comfortable but Hoddesdon were never out of it Kristina O’Connell running clear into the area pulling a shot wide across goal. 5 minutes left and Newmarket found a 2nd goal, a fantastic assist from Jodie Woodfield (so I’ve been corrected) putting striker Annabel Cuthbert through one on one with the keeper to shoot past her and score. Newmarket into the League Plate Final on Sunday 12th May winning 2-0.
Jodie Woodfield with the assist to see Newmarket win the game 2-0
ERWFL Premier Division
Two games played this Easter Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division, a trip down south for 3rd placed Wymondham Town Ladies to take on 3rd from bottom Haringey Borough Women. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with strikers Hannah Waters and Laura Nicholls combining for the latter to score. 40 goals now this season for Laura Nicholls. 1-0 up at half-time Haringey got straight back on level terms in the 2nd half making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. Waters restoring Wymondham’s lead midway through the 2nd half scoring to make her 2-1 with her 24th goal of the season. Again Haringey came back to level within 5 minutes of going behind. 10 minutes left on the clock Wymondham with a free-kick just outside the centre circle, Chardonnay Johnston with a screamer finding the top corner to put Wymondham 3-2 ahead and this time they didn’t let it slip to win the game.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Chardonnay Johnston
A week after knocking them out of the League Cup to reach the final of the competition Bedford Ladies returned to the Branch Bros Stadium to take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the Premier Division. Bedford coming out on top in a close game a week ago winning 2-1. There wasn’t much in it again with just a single goal enough to see all 3 points secured, this time however the result going Peterborough Northern Star’s way the 5th placed side scoring through Jessica Driscoll.
ERWFL Division One
4 league matches played in ERWFL Division One this bank holiday weekend with a clash between the top two seeing St Ives Town Ladies now needing just a point to win the title in their debut season in the league. Unbeaten at the top of the table St Ives were hosting 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies this Easter Sunday. The Essex side knowing they needed to win if they wanted to keep alive their own title ambititions, no easy task against a side unbeaten in the league and long before joining the ERWFL. Bowers & Pitsea starting well St Ives keeping them out however the sides heading in level at the break. The deadlock broken just past the hour with St Ives awarded a penalty Katie Stancombe fouled inside the box, Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring from the spot to make it 1-0. The lead doubled just 3 minutes later Ruth Fox powering a header home from a corner, St Ives weathering a late storm to win the game, next up Newmarket Town Ladies, the last side to beat them in the league back in 2017.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies are up to 5th spot in ERWFL Division One after mounting a 2nd half comeback in Essex to over turn a 2-0 half-time deficit. Hutton Ladies in 6th the hosts this Easter Sunday scoring twice in the 1st half. King’s Lynn Town Ladies meeting Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final this coming Sunday at Carrow Road matching their score coming back in the 2nd period to score 3 goals and win the match to extend their winning streak to 3 matches. Tiffany Forshaw, Becky Russell and Emma Corbyn with the goals.
Histon Ladies were hosting Lawford Ladies at the Glassworld Stadium this Easter Sunday. Jade Heath scoring her first goal of the season putting Lawford into the lead. Histon awarded a penalty kick on the half hour Sophie Lanham tucking it away to level the score. Lawford getting back into the lead 5 minutes later with Heath on target for a 2nd goal to put the visitors 2-1 up at half-time. Histon getting it back to 2-2 on the hour with Kirstie Smith playing the ball in from wide sending a shot over the keeper to score. Both sides taking a point from the game.
Hertford Town Ladies got back to winning ways in Division One coming home with the 3 points travelling away to Hatfield Peverel Ladies this Easter Sunday. Despite Jasmine Cox scoring twice for Hatfield Peverel they conceded twice as many at the other end to see Hertford Town win the game 4-2.
Glorious weather for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, Easter Sunday itself seeing a reduced fixture schedule across the region with just 23 games played across the leagues covered by Women’s Football East.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
The weeks edition of the FAWNL begins with Cardiff City Ladies looking to return to 2nd spot in the Southern Premier Division at home to 5th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Cerys Jones firing in a shot from distance setting Cardiff on the way putting them into the lead in the 12th minute. Kylie Nolan running into the box and sending a shot across the keeper doubling the lead on the half hour to see Cardiff leading 2-0 at half-time. An hour on the clock and Cardiff further extended their lead a high shot sent in from the left pulled down, Cori Williams closing in on the keeper challenging for the ball forcing it over the line to make it 3-0. Plymouth responding quickly to going 3-0 down pulling a goal back through Leah Burridge straight away. Natasha Knapman scoring another for the visitors to make it 3-2 and set up a nervous final 15 minutes Cardiff though holding onto their lead to claim the 3 points and return to 2nd in the league.
Defeat for Plymouth good news for 6th placed Watford Ladies as win away from home on Easter Sunday to move back to within a point with both with two to play including facing each other at Watford on the final day. This Sunday Warford were away to Gillingham Ladies. 0-0 between the sides at half-time a single goal enough to secure the 3 points for Watford coming midway through the 2nd half Adekite Fatuga-Dada putting in the cross for Katie O’Leary to nod it at the far post to score her 7th of the season.
FAWNL South East Division One
Three games played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend. Billericay Town Ladies 2nd in the league fresh from winning the Essex Women’s County Cup for the first time on Thursday evening beating holders C&K Basildon Ladies 4-0 were on the road on Sunday taking on bottom side Luton Town Ladies. It was the hosts however who opened the scoring with Remi Bains putting Luton 1 up from a corner kick. Billericay coming back to level the scores went on to take the lead headed into the break 3-1 up. A fourth goal coming 2nd half, Luton pulling it back to 4-2 with a worldie from Kimberly Newns her 1st goal for Luton. Billericay winning the game 4-2 putting them 12 points clear of the chasing pack, Sam Pittuck, Karissa Rodney, Karen Stephanou and Zoe Rushen with the goals.
Incredibly tight in the middle of the FAWNL South East Division One table as it has been all season. 3rd to 7th separated by just 4 points with most sides having 2 games left to play. AFC Wimbledon Ladies were playing their penultimate game of the season this Sunday their final home game too played at AFC Wimbledon’s Kingsmeadow Stadium. The visitors Enfield Town Ladies in 5th, Wimbledon in 7th 3 points behind at kick-off. Sian Wylie putting Wimbledon into a 5th minute lead with a strike from outside the box. Enfield coming back to level the scores on 17 minutes through Molly Peters capitalising on a defensive mix up. Peters striking again for her 2nd of the game with 35 minutes gone to see Enfield leading 2-1 at half-time. That the score until late into the game Wimbledon pushing for an equaliser getting it in the 82nd minute Rebecca Sargent heading in from a corner to make it 2-2. Late heartbreak for Enfield, joy for Wimbledon as they pushed players on into stoppage time up popped Rosie Russell to score the winner for Wimbledon her 1st senior goal lifting a shot over the keeper to win the game 3-2. Up to 6th level on points with Enfield.
Sian Wylie with the opener for AFC Wimbledon Ladies
A trip to Suffolk for league champions, Crawley Wasps Ladies this Easter Sunday. Ipswich providing a guard of honour before kick-off. Ipswich opening the scoring Zoe Cossey played in by Amy Nash to take the ball past the keeper and score with 16 minutes gone. Ipswich doing well keeping Crawley out at the other end to lead 1-0 at half-time. Crawley finding an equaliser on 64 minutes as Faye Rabson was played through to score. The visitors reduced to 10 soon after with Darcey James shown a 2nd yellow card. Despite that it was Crawley who found the wining goal late in the game with 2nd half substitute Suzy Davies finding the back of the net in the 88th minute to win the game.
Semi-final action this Easter Sunday on Women’s Football East from the ERWFL League Plate, Newmarket Town Ladies v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies vying for a place in the final itself on Sunday 12th May.
Histon Ladies already through to the ERWFL League Plate final with an extra-time win away to Stevenage Ladies Reserves last weekend. Newmarket and Hoddesdon meeting in the cup just 7 days after playing each other in the league itself. Away to Hoddesdon in Division One the Hertfordshire side 2-1 with Newmarket reduced to 10 with 25 minutes to play having goalkeeper Dominika Szary sent off nevertheless mounted a comeback late on to level the scores and win in with just 20 seconds left on the clock, 3-2 with 16-year-old Annabel Cuthbert on target for all 3 goals! 2-2 when they met at Newmarket earlier in the season, a tough semi-final to call this afternoon.
Newmarket are one of 5 newcomers to the regional league this season making the step up from the county league football, encouraged by an FA Cup run the season before that saw them beat two ERWFL Division One sides and take a 3rd to extra-time. Player departures over the close season left a bit of trepidation as they began at a higher level, had a large squad however and good recruitment has seen them flourish 3rd in the table in what has proved to be a competitve tussle in the top half in a great position to secure a top 4 finish, along with a cup semi-final.
Hoddesdon are currently fifth in the ERWFL Division One and established side playing at this level, reaching the semi-finals of the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup are looking to go one better in the League Plate competition. A competitive tussle in the middle of the table a late run of 4 straight league wins has seen them climb the table, Newmarket’s late winner last weekend in Hoddesdon’s penultimate league match bringing the run to an end a trip to Histon to come who both sides will be hoping to face in the final.
The Bloorie Stadium the venue for today’s semi-final game home of Newmarket Town FC, a state of the art cork based artificial playing surface. The clubhouse beside the pitch housing a bar an kitchen serving hot food and drink, a covered seated stand beside. A beautifully hot Easter Sunday, needed to find myself some suncream out at home and that’s not an easy thing to locate on a bank holiday weekend. Still with the stuff liberally applied I was all set ready to go, watching two sides I’ve yet to catch up with this season.
Dominika Szary suspended, Newmarket sort special permission from the league to play Ellie-Rai Quinn-Nicholls in goal. Newmarket to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing yellow shirts, with blue shorts and yellow and blue hooped socks, Hoddesdon lined up opposite wearing red and navy vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The visitors press as Newmarket play the ball out to the right won the diagonal ball is played in up towards the top of the area, for Rebecca Scola to attack, Olivia Cafferelli their first to clear for Newmarket.
Newmarket are quick to turn play around the ball fed through the middle with Annabel Cuthbert running in behind, Grace Leslie sliding in with a lunging tackle to take it away from her top of the area the ball deflecting off Cuthbert running behind for a goal kick. Hoddesdon awarded a free-kick inside the centre circle Leslie over it a good delivery long into the box, Newmarket heading it away from a throw in the left, Hoddesdon sending a cross into the six yard box the ball claimed by Quinn-Nicholls. Both sides looking for runs out wide in the early stages Jess Linger with a good diagonal ball long for Laura Bailey on the left, Hoddesdon captain Leah Dunnage defending the ball out for a throw.
Hoddesdon captain, Leah Dunnage
Newmarket win a free-kick wide left inside the Hoddesdon half Linger a threat from any set-piece sends the ball into the area plenty of pace on it bouncing through bodies Brooke Wickens throws a leg at it inside the six yard box, Hoddesdon goalkeeper keeping her eye on the ball gathers it cleanly. Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield gets across her area right to put the tackle in to deny Natasha Crick as shot as she is played through on the right wing. Fairly even in the early stages.
Newmarket Town Ladies, Yasmin Woodfield
Jodie Woodfield back playing for Newmarket this season after 3 years out of the game after suffering a serious injury has the ball at her feet in midfield played it to her left on for fellow midfielder Antonia Smith 30 yards out, full back Holly Dryland bursting forwards, Smith sends the ball into her path, Dunnage sliding in puts the ball away from the throw. Kristina O’Connell after a long ball sent forwards into the left corner does well to keep it in play on the flank up the line to square a cross in along the top of the area, bites at it from Scola and Rosy Wodhams outside the box, both closed down by the Newmarket defence unable to get a shot away pops out to Chloe Makepeace on the right drives a shot in low from 25 yards out the ball racing wide across goal.
Newmarket Town Ladies, Brooke Wickens
Wickens charging forwards with the ball on the right wing held up by Hoddesdon’s Jemma Collison, a throw won high up the pitch played into Wickens top of the area she turns well letting loose a shot the strike running wide across Gilmore’s six yard box. Newmarket forced into an early change Cafferelli coming off at the back on comes Chloe Slater taking up her position at centre back.
Hesitation between goalkeeper and defence inside the box for Newmarket sees Crick nip in to steal the ball takes it on into the six yard box left of goal, Beth Woodfield with a fantastic sliding tackle to take the ball away from Crick before she can get a shot away. Newmarket defending the corner on the left, Slater clearing a great ball up the pitch sees Cuthbert haring after it does well to win a corner up the other end. The delivery long to the far post missed by everyone.
Hoddesdon’s Natasha Crick looking to bring the ball forwards
Wickens turning inside from the right looking to attack the area is brought down a free-kick in a dangerous position for Newmarket, Linger over it goes for goal putting a high ball in towards goal, Gilmore thankful to see the ball drop narrowly over the bar. A hot day but good energy levels shown fro Newmarket quick to close the ball down Bailey and Wickens looking t make runs left and right. Bailey on the left the ball rolled into feet 35 yards out turns well knocking the ball on her next touch too strong however as she enters the box allowing Gilmore to claim.
Hannah Gilmore keeps an eye on Jess Linger’s free-kick
Midway through the first half a drinks break called by the referee, hot out there in the middle. Play resumes Wickens attacking wide playing the ball inside to Cuthbert the young attacker brought down, players go forwards as Linger sets the ball down, a high delivery into the box, Charley Handley heading it out for Hoddesdon, comes straight back on high in the air, Gilmore coming jumps to claim. Dunnage with as good challenge to stop Bailey the ball up the line for Crick. Jodie Woodfield in to win the ball linking up with Smith looks to go left for Wickens, Collison intercepting for Hoddesdon.
Moving into a central position Wickens pushes the ball into Cuthbert back to goal top of the D, she spots right back Yasmin Woodfield breaking forwards into space on the right plays the pass out to her, Wickens getting in towards the top of the area demanding the cross has the ball at her feet strikes for goal the attempt racing low wide across goal. O’Connell with a clever back heel almost gets Scola away in behind through the middle, Quinn-Nicholls with a good starting position out to the edge of her area sharply to pick up the ball. O’Connell furthest forwards the ball bouncing Beth Woodfield on her shoulder it won’t drop kindly for the attacker to get a shot away on target outside the box.
GOAL! The deadlock broken late in the first half, from a set-piece Newmarket awarded a free-kick inside the Hoddesdon half central about 35 yards out, Linger on it looks a little too far out to have a go for goal but that is exactly what Linger does strikes it perfectly arrowing straight towards goal pace on it, Gilmore back on her line gets the faintest of touches on it not enough as the ball smashes down off the crossbar over the line 1-0.
Jess Linger opens the scoring for Newmarket Town Ladies
Newmarket come close to adding a 2nd goal straight away, Jodie Woodfield winning the ball back from a Hoddesdon throw on the right inside their half sends it inside for Cuthbert who spots Bailey breaking on into the area in behind on the left, Bailey shooting sends her strike wide across the face of goal. Crick coming back well to help out her defence winning the ball back as Newmarket attack on the left Jodie Woodfield combining well with Smith again.
O’Connell played in left is pushed into the corner by Yasmin Woodfield, holds the ball up well getting back up the line to sweep a cross into the six yard box, Slater getting in front of Scola sees the ball back to her keeper. Leslie is hurt in a challenge in the middle of the park, hurt hasn’t recovered properly as she goes to take it herself an immediately pulls up. The trainer on she can’t continue, comes off with Bridget Kirwan sent on. Kirwan called into action straight away defending in the middle as Wickens swings a ball in from the right.
Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 1-0 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
A fair tempo to the game considering the temperatures, started off fairly evenly, however as the half has grown Newmarket started to get the upper hand, closing down well disrupting Hoddesdon all over the pitch, created the better openings although clear cut chances have been low. Linger with a superbly struck free-kick the difference between the sides. A narrow lead for Newmarket to take into the 2nd half, Hoddesdon will need to find a clinical edge in the final third to get themselves back into the game.
Hoddesdon to get the second half underway. Won back straight away by Newmarket, Dryland on the left putting the ball on down the line for Cuthbert charging after it taking it into the area, Gilmore coming out to close her down Cuthbert taking the ball past the keeper, carries out to the by-line wide of goal cutting a cross back in towards the top of the area, a good idea but no one there to attack it, Hoddesdon launch it up field.
Handley with a strong tackle on Cuthbert well timed top of the box, is hurt, but okay to continue after treatment. Linger breaking up an attack through the middle for Newmarket pushes the ball out to Wickens on the right she sends it on for Cuthbert peeling away to make a run into the area, Handley back again to get a foot in to take the ball away from Cuthbert not out of play Newmarket close well to force a corner kick on the right. O’Connell up well inside her box to head the ball away.
Getting forwards in attack receiving the ball from Davies, O’Connell attacking left is brought down by Yasmin Woodfield the defender shown a yellow card a free-kick left outside the box for Hoddesdon, Scola over it blasts a shot in low through to the near post, Quinn-Nicholls saving well the ball pushed behind for a corner. Newmarket defending break the ball forwards however too much for Cuthbert to chase down. Crick is caught offside a half a yard ahead of the Newmarket defence as O’Connell puts the diagonal ball over the top.
Hoddesdon’s Kristina O’Connell
Davies putting in the block as Wickens shoots from the top of the area the ball sent into her from Bailey on the left. Wickens after the loose ball turning to play the ball back across the top of the area Bailey pushed inside the D, Newmarket awarded another free-kick. Linger over it keeps the ball low this time on target but Gilmore down on her line is right behind it. Dryland on the left brings the ball on the pass inside for Smith she helps it on down the line for Bailey, Dunnage getting in on her to put in the tackle regain possession for Hoddesdon. Linger on the ball central lifts it out to Wickens right top of the area takes the shot on the half volley struck over.
Newmarket’s Laura Bailey with Hoddesdon’s Jemma Collison
Hoddesdon make a change, Scola coming off on comes Katie Kendle. Bailey left slides a ball in across the top of the area Cuthbert seeing it into her feet well turning taking it into the box, Handley marking back on her quickly to lunge in to take the ball away from her. Slater defending at the back for Newmarket as Dunnage sliding in to get the ball almost succeeds in playing Collinson in behind on the right. Gilmore dealing well inside her six yard box as Linger out wide sends a high looping ball into the area the keeper punching it down and claiming it on the bounce.
Another fee-kick given away by Hoddesdon central Linger to take another awkward ball for Gilmore bouncing before her skipping up off the surface inside the six yard box she pushes it wide for a corner on the left, the ball in long to the far post headed down, Hoddesdon scramble clear a shot fired back in from outside the box racing wide of the post. The game paused for drinks again both sides getting instructions from the bench. Leslie comes back on for Hoddesdon.
Newmarket get forwards a corner won on the right the delivery in low hear post met the header driven towards goal blocked on the line, Hoddesdon penned back as Newmarket win another corner on the left this one long to the far post play stopped however with a Hoddesdon player down as the ball is cleared. Dunnage bringing the ball on plays a crossfield pass to Crick left looking up she spots Collison breaking into the box on the right lifts the ball on, too close to Quinn-Nicholls giving the keeper the chance to claim the ball.
Hoddesdon have a set-piece wide left players up from the back as they continue their search for an equalising goal. A good ball put into the box Handley rising on the penalty spot to meet it with her header drives her effort wide of the right post. Hoddesdon pushing on more now Dunnage forwards on the right wins a free-kick outside the area, O’Connell to play it in Quinn-Nicholls punching t out of her six yard box. Injuries and free-kicks disrupting play, a little bit of frustration creeping into Hoddesdon’s play. Bailey away on the left holds the ball up Smith providing support up the line getting the ball sends a cross into the box Handley heading it away for Hoddesdon.
Kirwan winning the ball central is knocked on through the middle in behind puts O’Connell away to run in behind clear of the defence into the box right of goal pulls the trigger gets her shot across the keeper but agonisingly wide of the far post.
Kristina O’Connell running behind for Hoddesdon
GOAL! The game moving into the final 5 minutes Newmarket break to double their lead the ball fired into Woodfield 30 yards out right channel she sends the ball on through for Cuthbert to run in clear after it into the box closing in on the keeper a composed finish putting it to her left to score at the near post and runs away into the corner to celebrate her teammates close behind 2-0.
Newmarket Town Ladies, Annabel Cuthbert
Smith comes off for Newmarket as they send on another 16-year-old Eleanor McLeish. Hoddesdon push everyone forwards as they win a late corner, Newmarket defend the ball ending up on the roof of the net. A long range strike fired into the Newmarket box blocked the ball pinging back and forth put behind for another corner kick. Goes long but cleared straight to O’Connell top of the area her strike sent over.
Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 2-0 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
Newmarket win the game 2-0 to reach the League Plate final in their debut season at this level their opponents Histon Ladies. Ice lollies to celebrate as they walk off the pitch much needed with the sun still blazing down. Got the 2nd goal they needed in the end to make thing’s a little more comfortable. Later than they would have liked but with Hoddesdon pushing on trying to find an equaliser gaps would open. Hoddesdon frustrated not at their best had chances to score get back into the tie so long as it stayed a 1-0, Newmarket on the whole looking comfortable for the result and two very well taken goals see them through to the final.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Kristina O’Connell tried her best to get thing’s going for Hoddesdon. The Newmarket defence was superb in limiting attacks and putting in some vital tackles. Jess Linger’s set-pieces a constant threat, Brooke Wickens on the right with some great runs, over on the opposite side of the attack to Laura Bailey with some great runs and movement always an outlet on the wing coming close to scoring herself, she wins today’s award.
Good to see both sides in action at last this season, congratulations to Newmarket on reaching the final. A hot day both put in alot of effort, my thanks for the help with the teams this afternoon.
A trip down to Essex this Thursday night for this season’s BBC Essex Women’s County Cup, C&K Basildon Ladies reaching a fifth successive final taking in Billericay Town Ladies looking to win the trophy for the 1st time.
A successful season so far for Billericay Town Ladies promoted to the FAWNL for the first time are a growing force within the women’s game in the county, well supported by Billericay Town FC, are 2nd in South East Division One, like Crawley Wasps Ladies have recruited well to strengthen their squad to compete at the higher level. A good number of those recruits from Basildon. Neck and neck with their fellow promoted side at the start of the season, fell away as Crawley continued to win going on to claim the title itself, losing just the one game that defeat at the hands of Billericay. Success for their U14s and U16s sides in their respective county cup finals the future looks promising.
A fifth County Cup win puts C&K Basildon Ladies joint all time winners of the competition along side Chelmsford City Ladies. This Thursday their 6th county cup final winning it for the 1st time in the 2012/13 season, missing out on the final the following year have since gone on to dominate winning 4 successive finals two of those victories against Billericay. Under the fantastic support of Peter King and manager Steve Tilson have become on of the leading sides in Essex on the cusp of winning the FAWNL Southern Premier Division.
This season heralding a new era for the club, with Peter King retiring, Steve Tilson leaving as manager and with most of the first team squad moving on the club was left with some tough decisions to make regarding the future. Firstly with essentially thier development side whether to continue playing in the Southern Premier Division or drop down a league. Chose to stay and contest has been a tough season finishing bottom without a win a huge learning curve the squad has grown and found more togetherness, will be stronger for the experience. A season of transition from the club as it begins a new chapter in it’s history under a new name as from the 1st June it will be known as AFC Basildon Ladies/Girls a new beginning playing in South East Division One along side Billericay. The underdogs this evening will be inspired by their U18s side who won their county cup final.
Road to the Final
The top sides in the county given a bye in the competition until the quarter final stage, as two of the leading sides in Essex both Billericay Town Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies entered at this stage. Billericay handed a home drawn again Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies, the away side scoring plenty of goals themselves the gulf between them showed as Billericay riding high in the FAWNL 5 league above were rampart as they won the game by a staggering 31-0. Home advantage too for Basildon as they began the defence of the County Cup against ERWFL Premier Division side Harlow Town Ladies. A 3-0 win seeing them safely through to the last 4.
Billericay at home in the semi-finals were up against last season’s finalists Brentwood Town Ladies. Again Billericay racked up a big score too strong for their ERWFL Premier Division One opponents winning their place in the final with an 8-0 win. Basildon were away in the semi-finals taking on last season’s Essex Women’s Trophy winners, Hutton Ladies. A 5-1 win seeing Basildon reach their 5th successive final.
The Len Salmon Stadium hosting this evenings final, home of Bowers & Pitsea FC whose own women’s side well supported by the club lifted the Essex Women’s Trophy earlier this season. A brand new 3G pitch the ground being redeveloped with lots planned starting with the playing surface, dugouts and two new small stands. The mainstand the next project incorporating a new clubhouse. The current one a good size offering plenty to the community. Hot food and drinks available. A good crowd building, a warm day extending into the evening in what promises to be a glorious bank holiday weekend.
Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Alex Baker, Laken Duchar-Clark, Courtney Lumley, Danica Dougal, Esme Lancaster, Lucy Jones, Lindsey Morgan (C), Jay Blackie, Kerry Stimson, Zoe Rushen & Sam Pittuck. Subs – Gemma Crowe, Nicole Farmer, Sophie Vale, Karen Stephanou & Karissa Rodney.
C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Sarah Walker, Grace Gillard, Tilly Deacon, Mollie de Bell, Jessica Horn, Sophie Rhodes, Alex Bailess (C), Gemma Abela, Molly Bowness, Katie Whitehead & Holly Turner. Subs – Sophie Spencer-Webb, Jodie Osbourne, Danielle Sillitoe, Courtney Clarke & Maddie Thomas.
Billericay to get this season’s county cup final underway five of their starting line-up, Laken Duchar-Clark, Danica Dougal, Kerry Stimson, Jay Blackie and Zoe Rushen starting for Basildon in last season’s final with a sixth Karissa Rodney on the bench. Both side play in blue it’s Billericay in the change kit wearing all red with Basildon all in blue. The ball played out to the left wing Lucy Jones looking to take it on, Grace Gillard tackling for Basildon the ball out for a throw in.
Billericay captain Lindsey Morgan getting hold of the ball central pulls the trigger from 20 yards out her shot taking a deflection off an outstretched leg taking the sting off it goalkeeper Sarah Walker collecting the ball as it runs wide of her goal. Holly Turner with Basildon’s first attack bringing the ball on central closed down as she enters the box the clearance collected by Basildon captain Alex Bailess she lifts it up to Turner back to goal outside the area she attempts to tee up Gemma Abela making a run to her right the ball won by Billericay’s Dougal at the back.
Blackie with a fantastic pass forwards through to Sam Pittuck in attack she is brought down as she looks to drive into the area a free-kick awarded in a dangerous area 25 yards out left of the D, Rushen to take goes for goal lifting the ball in high the ball dropping caught easily by Walker right behind it. Basildon get on the offensive Turner with the ball out wide left brings it on into the box shooting the shot saved pushed away by goalkeeper Alex Baker at her near post. The ball put out to the right good closing down from Jessica Horn sees her win the ball high on the right a diagonal ball into the box met by Turner her first time sent over the crossbar.
Billericay launch a rapid counter attack Pittuck with good movement up to get into space right takes it forwards before laying it out to Esme Lancaster wide right her cross in behind. A good start to the game from both sides. Blackie in midfield playing some excellent passes forwards trying to release Pittuck the stadium packed for the occasion 578 here to watch. Billericay with a free-kick wide on the right inside the Basildon half the ball played into the top of the area defended, Duchar-Clark onto the loose ball run on taking the ball towards the box the door closing in front of her.
GOAL! An early chance for Billericay to take the lead awarded a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes the ball played into the top of the area form the right, Rushen up against a defender is floored the referee pointing to the spot. Dougal up from the back to take it a clinical finish high to the keepers right to put Billericay into the lead 1-0.
Danica Dougal scoring from the penalty spot to put Billericay into the lead (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
The ball won in midfield Morgan up to Pittuck in attack looks to combine with Rushen the players exchanging passes making for the box, Molly Downes winning it back for Basildon. Good work from Abela on the right cutting inside 25 yards out playing the ball into Turner’s feet top of the D she tries to lift it over the Billericay defence with Katie Whitehead making the run in behind, Baker getting to the ball first. Pittuck with the ball as Billericay attack on the counter shooting from distance the narrowly strike over.
Horn is tackled by Stimson as she attacks on the right, Stimson bringing the ball out for Billericay prods the ball inside looking to find Pittuck, Bailess intercepts. Basildon mount an attack, Sophie Rhodes making the run into the area right side the ball crossed in over to her meeting it on the volley wide of goal six yards out stretching can’t turn it back in across goal, wide. Basildon defending well high up the pitch, Whitehead and Horn in particular closing down as Billericay look to get the ball wide. Abela is pushed in the back a free-kick given out right the delivery into the area towards the far post Turner goes for it does’t get much contact the ball tamely rolling into Baker’s gloves.
Lancaster getting forwards out on the right fro Billericay the cross into the top of the area Jones coming in from the left looking to attack it, Gillard back with her sliding in with a great tackle, the ball loose however collected by Pittuck right of the D 20 out a snap shot the effort swerving away wide of goal. Basildon play the ball up to Whitehead left 20 yards out her touch laying it off central to Abela she shoots from 25 yards out the attempt over the bar.
Basildon are awarded a penalty midway through the first half a ball forwards central Turner running into the box is tripped. Turner setting it down goes for height too but too much the ball right wide of the goal.
Morgan with a firm tackle in the middle preventing Basildon breaking. Stimson has got plenty of pace making some mazy runs on the ball Billericay is fouled by Horn as she crosses the halfway line. Jones on the ball put long into the area headed clear by the defence. Courtney Lumley defending for Billericay clearing the ball for a throw as Basildon look to get on down the wing. An good contest lively both sides looking to get forwards, Stimson getting forwards spotted by Rushen plays the ball on too much weight on the pass.
Morgan with the ball played into her feet from the right turns outside the Basildon area an shoots the strike blocked, Basildon counter, Dougal defending. Less than 15 minutes of the first half left Billericay win the first corner of the game the ball out on the right a good delivery into the middle of the six yard box Blackie rising well to head the ball smashes it against the crossbar. Basildon regain it and look to break Turner on it through the middle brought down by Stimson who receives a talking too. The ball played long up towards the area defended by Morgan.
Jay Blackie rising to head the ball from a corner her effort smashing against the crossbar (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
The ball played out from the back to Jones on the left, Horn closing down well wins the ball but in doing so her momentum poleaxes Jones, a free-kick awarded. A delay however the referee talking to de Bell and captain Bailess, a straight red is shown Basildon reduced to 10 players de Bell sent off for something that was said foul or abusive language. The ball played on up the left for Stimson as she bombs on, Gillard defending. Jones taking the ball forwards left side tries the diagonal ball on for Pittuck through the middle Bailess tracking back well to intercept.
Blackie’s passing continues to be spot on as they press forwards with an extra player now. Stimson with good movement getting forwards to support Rushen and Pittuck in attack. Stimson looking to link up with Pittuck in attack a one two the return ball meant for Pittuck as she enters the area cut out by Deacon.
GOAL! Into the final minute of the first half Billericay double their lead the ball put into Blackie inside the centre circle a superb pass forwards to release Pittuck in behind moving right takes the ball into the area, Walker coming to close the angle, the strikers touch taking the ball around the keeper and running in behind sends the ball into the empty net 2-0.
Sam Pittuck taking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 for Billericay (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
Half-time Billericay Town Ladies 2-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
Billericay double their advantage right on the stroke of half-time a 2 goal advantage plus an extra player for the 2nd half to come. An entertaining contest in the first half both sides sowing attacking intent, Billericay edging the chances but Basildon have had opportunities of their own, the sending off a huge blow some reorganising to do for the 2nd period Billericay have plenty of attack minded players who will be looking for the extra space that may become available.
A double change for Basildon at the start of the 2nd half with Madelyn Thomas on to support Turner in attack, Danielle Sillitoe on at the back. Basildon to get the 2nd half underway. An early attack getting forwards on the right the ball fired into the area met and cleared by Billericay’s Duchar-Clark. Basildon getting it back try again this time the cross to close to the keeper Baker collecting. Gillard defending as Blackie spots Rushen breaking into space on the right.
Stimson pressing the ball high on the right plays it on for Lancaster her cross long to the far post the ball knocked down, the shot seen wide. Deacon defending concedes a corner, Jones to play the ball in from the right, Walker up well amongst bodies inside her six yard box to punch the ball, Basildon look to counter play pulled back Stimson down having taken a knock to the head. Duchar-Clark bringing the ball forwards pushed into Pittuck right back to goal sends the ball on in behind with Rushen getting into the box, her strike goalwards landing in the side netting.
Rushen available for the pass right as Duchar-Clark brings it forwards the pass into her she helps it on for Lancaster ahead of both, looks to get in field, Sillitoe reading the move well getting herself into a good tackling position outside the box. Blackie’s shooting not as accurate as her passing as she puts an effort wide from all of 45 yards out. A different game 2nd half Basildon working hard at the back to stop Billericay having virtually none of the attack.
Pittuck leading the line well always looking to break in behind given the ball is into space on the right closing in on the byline fires a vicious ball across the face of goal Stimson throwing herself at it far post can’t quite make contact. Billericay make their first change of the game with an hour gone. Duchar-Clark coming off at the back Nicole Farmer. Gillard cutting out a through ball looking to send Rushen in through the middle. Bailess defending back at the near post for Basildon as the ball is crossed in from the left. Morgan getting forwards into the area seeing the ball over her shoulder strikes it on the volley, Basildon charging it down.
GOAL! The game moving past the hour and Billericay extend their lead a great run from Stimson carrying the ball into the box left players getting forwards with her, the strike fired in across the goal Walker getting her gloves to it as she is closed down Rushen and Morgan, the ball, Rushen reacting quickest after the loose ball inside the six yard box, a 50/50 with Gillard the ball spinning out to the right met by Lancaster who thunders a shot into the back of the net 3-0.
GOAL! Straight from the restart Billericay go on to score a 4th goal, Rushen coming to close down the ball in defence nicking it to run on central and get a shot away from 25 yards Walker not back on her line the ball curled wide of her into the goal beyond 4-0.
Zoe Rushen shooting to make it 4-0 (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
That goal signals changes for both sides, Basildon bringing off Whitehead, on in her place Courtney Clarke. A double change for Billericay, Blackie and Stimson coming off on come ex-Basildon players Karissa Rodney and Karen Stephanou. Opportunities for Basildon rare in the 2nd period Turner carrying the ball on is brought down a free-kick awarded left outside the area Clarke doesn’t get the contact she wanted the ball sliced wide.
Pittuck away on the right a touch to get the ball out of her feet sends a cross into the box, the flag raised with Rodney offside. Billericay push on, Farmer with a brilliant ball put over the top for Morgan getting forwards into the area right of goal, Walker saving well at her near post as the shot comes in. Rodney left plays the ball in central to Pittuck she dummies with Rushen behind she lays the ball off to Lancaster right top of the area makes a run central Lancaster trying to pick her out with the return ball across the top of the area, Sillitoe sticking a foot out to steal it.
A dummy from Rushen right sees Lancaster run in behind on the right another cross flashed across the face of goal. Billericay very much on top Basildon defending hardly able to get the ball into their opponents half. Clarke wide on the left plays a good ball up to Thomas in attack, bringing it down well into the path of Abela looks to spin in behind, Abela can’t find her with the over the top ball as Dougal defends for Billericay.
Turner carries the ball on trying to force her way through the middle Dougal and Lumley converging to close her down outside the box. Farmer plays Lancaster in right side wins a corner kick, the delivery long met by Dougal on the volley squeezing under the diving Walker strikes the post, back out into the middle the defence scramble the ball away the game entering the final 5 minutes.
Backs to the wall for Basildon late on Billericay press, a corner left appeals for handball waved away the ball put back out to the left a high ball back in Walker back on her line getting an arm up to push the ball away as it threats to creep under the bar. Clarke defending as Rodney crosses in from the left side, the ball back out left with Stephanou, Morgan ahead of her receiving the pass a cross long to the far post, attacked by Lancaster and Clarke out behind a corner awarded. Rodney gets up well her header knocking the ball down in front of goal, a scramble ensues Basildon keep the ball from crossing the line getting it up field. The final action of the game as Billericay celebrate winning the County Cup for the first time.
Full time Billericay Town Ladies 4-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
An entertaining start to the game the first 35 minutes lively 1 goal in it both sides competing well, the sending off changing everything, Billericay adding a 2nd goal late in the 2nd half in full control of the game from then on pressing the advantage getting a 3rd goal quickly followed by a 4th to secure the win with almost half an hour to play. Some great passes on display and flowing attacking moves. The crowd adding to a great atmosphere the stadium packed.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, another tough one a few contenders all wearing red. Morgan in the middle breaking up Basildon attacks, Pittuck up top some fantastic runs to get into goal scoring opportunities scoring late in the first half. Kerry Stimson with some god runs on the ball. Her passing was superb throughout the game however and turned quickly turned a Basildon attack into a Billericay counter, the award goes to Jay Blackie.
Billericay Town Ladies, BBC Essex Women’s County Cup winners (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
Congratulations to Billericay Town Ladies on winning the BBC Essex Women’s County Cup
A enjoyable cup final this evening down in Essex between two sides that will be league rivals next season, two exciting derby games to look forwards to. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams this evening and to Nicky Hayes for the use of his pictures for this report.
Following up from a comfortable 7-1 home win against Garston Ladies 2nd XI in midweek with both Bianca Hedgecock and Charlene Turturici-Clarke scoring a brace each, Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies closed the gap to leaders Northwood Ladies to 3 points. Due to play Garston Ladies 1st team n Sunday their opponents forfeited the game see Hemel Hempstead awarded the 3 points and move level with the leaders. One game left away to Houghton Athletic Ladies a point or better will see them crowned Division One champions, Northwood will be cheering on Houghton.
Garston Ladies 2nd XI bounced back from their midweek defeat to Hemel Hempstead to win at home against Sharnbrook WFC on Sunday and as a result move off the bottom of the Division One table. Ruby Jager scoring a hat-trick in their 6-0 victory with Lauren Berryman, Leah Crocket and Charley Kelsey also bagging a goal each. Sherrardswood Ladies go bottom having played all their games.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One more Champion to celebrate this week with Hitchin Belles getting the point they needed on Sunday to become Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two Champions! Were playing their final game of the season away to local rivals and 2nd placed Hitchin Town Ladies. The match at played at Top Field home of Hitchin Town FC, Hitchin Town Ladies were 8 points behind Hitchin Belles with 3 games left to play needed a win to have any chance of denying Belles the title. In the finish it wasn’t to be with the sides battling out a 0-0 draw usually a frustrating result but not for Hitchin Belles as they win the title and promotion to Division One.
Congratulations to Hitchin Belles on their title success.
That 0-0 draw good news for Letchworth garden City Eagles as they move back up into 2nd place in the Division Two table with a home win over in form Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kate Tempest, Katie Smith, Emily Jamieson and a 1st of the season for Anna Argiros seeing Letchworth win the game 4-0, one game left to play, that against Hitchin Town Ladies now basically a shoot off for 2nd place with one point between the sides even though Hitchin have a game in hand.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Three games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday and with two games left for the top 3 it is going to go down to the wire. Leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development top of the table were unbeaten dropping just 2 points before this weekends home clash with 3rd placed AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College Ladies. The visitors inflicting the first defeat of the season on Dunstable to close the gap to them down to 4 points. Rachael Mumford scoring a brace for Kempston Town & Bedford College with a goal each for Taylor Kingston and Kayleigh Humphries plus an own goal securing a 5-1 win. Bianca Vassell with the goal for Dunstable the pair meeting again in a fortnight in their penultimate game of the season. A win then for Dunstable putting Kempston Town & Bedford College out of the title race, if it goes the other way thing’s get very interesting on the final day!
That defeat for Dunstable good news too for Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses in 2nd place as they close the gap to the leaders to just a point with a big win away to bottom side Buntingford Town Ladies. Giselle Randall on fire with 7 goals in the game taking her onto 32 goals for the season, the visitors winning 10-0 with Victoria Harrold also on target with a goal and a brace for Laura Sephton. An intriguing contest between Dunstable and Kempston Town & Bedford College in a fortnights time Woburn & Wavendon are away to Kempston Town & BedfordCollege in the pairs final game of the season where all three sides could all still be in contention for the title!
One more game to bring you and it was victory in their final game of the season for Langford Ladies who secure a 4th placed finish in their debut season in women’s football. Were away to Biggleswade United Ladies in 5th spot. A brace from top scorer Amber Clark finishing on 25 goals plus one from Chloe Scott who ends on 21 goals for the season sealing a 3-0 win.
Not one but two cup finals played in Cambridgeshire towards the end of last week, worthy of a mention in this weeks edition of The Round-Up. First up on Thursday it was the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC. Cambridge getting off to the better start however it was Fulbourn who opened the scoring on 15 minutes a break Marie Stubbings playing the ball on for Stacey Kemp to strike past the keeper form outside the box. The lead not lasting long with Freya Standing given time and space to line up a shot from distance the ball bouncing inside the post to make it 1-1. Midfielder Emily Reed scoring from the tightest on angles on the byline to put Cambridge into the lead.
2-1 up at half time Cambridge pressed for a 3rd goal at the start of the 2nd period Fulbourn with few chances Katie Luddy’s run and cross into the area seeing the ball presented to Stubbings at the top of the area she turned well to make it 2-2 with a clinical finish. Into the final 15 minutes a corner the ball cleared off the line the crossbar struck the ball dropping into the six yard bx players diving in the result a penalty to Cambridge. Bronte Rapley tucking it away to put Cambridge 3-2 up the goal enough to win the trophy, the first of a potential treble.
Cambridge City Ladies Development win the Junior Invitation Cup
24 hours later it was the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup competition played at Ely City FC, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies. The Championship North side soon on top against thier Championship South opponents, Wisbech getting forwards top scorer Sophie Swinden putting a one on one opportunity against the keeper wide. The deadlock eventually broken on the half hour Wisbech pressing the ball Chloe Stanborough carrying it into the box shooting the ball pushed wide across goal captain Faye Kowalewsky there on the follow up to nod the ball into the back of the net. Stanborough coming close again striking the bar.
Wisbech remained on top for much of the game preventing St Ives getting forwards with any meaningful attacks in control but just 1 goal in it a 2nd would make thing’s more comfortable awarded a free-kick 35 yards out, Swinden over the ball goes for goal a well taken strike the ball high into the air dropped under the crossbar to put Wisbech 2-0 with less than 20 minutes to play. 2-0 the final score Wisbech Town Ladies winning this season’s Division One Cup.
Wisbech Town Ladies, 2018/19 Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Winners
Cambridge City Ladies Development are now just one win away from secured the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title as they won 7-0 at home to March Town United Ladies this Sunday. Winning the Junior Invitation Cup one win from their last 3 games will see them crowned champions and win the double with the League Cup final also to be contested in May. Megan Tonks moving onto 30 goals for the season scoring a brace against March. There were goals too for Rachel Littlewood, Anna Kanz, Lucy Hurst and Ellie Cullum.
ICA Sports Ladies finished their season this Sunday with a home win against Histon Ladies Reserves, currently in 2nd position in the Premiership table 8 points clear of 3rd placed Cambridge University Women who have 4 games yet to play. Stu Afford stepping down as manager ICA Sports Ladies will be managed by Shaun Harley next season. Ended this campaign on a high goals from Jessica Farchina, Carman Herridge and Donna Nicholls securing a 3-0 win.
Buoyed by a good performance in the Junior invitation Cup Final on Sunday Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday. The bare 11 for Cambridge University they played their part in a high scoring game with the sides sharing 8 goals, Lu Liu, Bernice Wood and Amanda Wainwright on target for 3 goals for the visitors. A hat-trick from Marie Stubbings taking her onto 21 goals for the season plus a goal each for Katie Luddy and Krissie Taylor seeing Fulbourn win the game 5-3 giving them an advantage in the quest for 4th spot in the table.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
Like Cambridge City Ladies Development, Wisbech Town Ladies were soon back in action after their Cup success on Friday. Less than 48 hours later Wisbech Town Ladies were at home to Cardea Ladies. Sophie Swinden closing in on 40 goals for the season scoring a brace to take her to 38. Wisbech winning the game 5-1, Chloe Stanborough, Amy Newell and Yasmin Holmes on her debut with the other goals.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
A full fixture list in the Championship South this Sunday. Leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies maintaining their 9 point lead at the top of the table with a big away win against Isleham United Ladies. Joeli Kirby well ahead in the goal scoring charts bagging herself another 4 goals to take her onto 40 goals for the season. There were hat-tricks too for Kayleigh Nolan and Abbi Griffin with Kayleigh Steed also on the scoresheet.
Like Wisbech, St Ives Town Ladies Development were also in action less than 48 hours after playing in the Division One Cup final the 2nd placed side looking to keep the pressure on Haverhill with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC got over there final disappointment creating some good opportunities to win the game 3-2 to maintain the 9 point gap with 3 games in hand.
A double header this Sunday between Park Ladies at home to Burwell Tigers Ladies, two 60 minute games played as they look to get their fixtures in. 6 points collected by Park taking them 6 points clear in fourth spot. The first game won 2-0 with Sherrie Martin scoring her 14th goal of the season and Francesca Plitsch finding the back of the net. The 2nd game won by 4 goals to 2, Sophie Fenner scoring a brace with 1st goals of the season for Victoria Brown and Charlotte Tweed.
East Bergholt United Ladies are the Champions of Suffolk for a 2nd successive season winning back to back titles. Not quite the way they would have wanted to as the 3 points were awarded after opponents Walsham Le Willow Ladies forfeited their game at the weekend. Nonetheless a fantastic achievement defending their title with a long winning streak losing just the once to 2nd placed Needham Market Women. The aim now to make it a back to back league and cup double as they look to defend the league Cup on Tues August 30th at Hadleigh FC against Needham Market Women.
Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on this season’s league title.
Needham Market Women newly formed this season pushing East Bergholt all the way to ensure they didn’t run away with things at the top of the table a runners-up finish confirmed and they are also in the finals of both the League Cup and County Cup two great games to look forwards too. This Sunday they were at home taking on another newcomer Brettvale Ladies who have improved as the season has gone on and things are looking positive for next season. This Sunday however they were soundly beaten by Needham Market who are way out in front in terms of goals this scored in the league 114 to date 5 of those added against Brettvale. Francesca Rainbird top scorer with another goal taking her tally to 29. Amber Sparks up to 20 for the season also on the scoresheet. Abbie Wilkinson, Jemma Wessels and Nicola Anderson also getting their name on the scoresheet.
Another new side this season enjoying a successful campaign are Woodbridge Town Ladies climb up to 3rd in the Suffolk Women’s Division table with a narrow 2-1 win at home against Alresford Colne Rangers. Goals for Kimberly Edwards and a 19th of the season for top scorer Jenna Liverpool securing the 3 points, strong in 2019 with just 2 defeats from 12 played. Jo Harvey scoring the goal for Alresford.
Leiston St Margarets Ladies are looking good now to secure a top half finish in the Suffolk Women’s Division as they like Woodbridge enjoy a strong 2nd half to the season again just 2 defeats from 10 played so far this calendar year. Were at home this Sunday taking on Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies and despite Charlotte Archer scoring her 12th goal of the season for the visitors goals from Sarah Cooper and Justine Young saw Leiston St Margarets win the game 2-1.
Coplestonians Ladies were away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this Sunday and despite being short on numbers held a narrow lead at the break. A different story 2nd half as Coplestonians piled on the goals to win the 3 points with a 9-2 victory. Top sorer Abigail Eley scoring 4 of those goals taking her to 14 for the season. A hat-trick too for Sophie Maul with Chloe York an Lottie Aldous also getting a goal a piece.
Just a handful of fixtures left now in Norfolk Women’s Division One half the sides now completing their fixtures Thorpe United Ladies long ago crowned champions, a win from Gorleston Ladies would see them clinch runners-up spot in the league as they travelled to play bottom side Beccles Town Ladies on Sunday just a point behind 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies whose fixtures were done. Two games in hand for Gorleston they were 2 goals to the good at half-time, went on to add a further 2 in the 2nd period to win the game 4-1 and seal a 2nd place finish. Samantha Hunn scoring a brace with Sophie Gillett and Beth Turner both on target for a goal each. Lucy Robbens with the 2nd half goal for Beccles who despite a spirited finish bottom of the table following promotion last season. Haven’t had the luck with injuries throughout but still have a cup final to look forwards too.
Has been a difficult season too for Bungay Town Ladies double winners last season, got off to a terrible start this time around the squad taking a hit players missing, injuries, results picking up recently as new players start to find their feet bolster the existing squad end the campaign unbeaten in 3 winning two including their last game of the season at home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies the 3 points lifting them into the top half of the table. At home Bungay leading 2-0 at half-time went on to win the game 3-0. Selina Rowland scoring a brace there was a goal too for Morgan Devine.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
It was from Norfolk where this Sunday’s action came from Women’s Football East came from the top of Division Two a first opportunity to have a look at league leaders Taverham Women United’s young guns as they travelled to 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies knowing one more win would secure them the league title. Taverham with a very young side all U18 bar one making the step up from youth football often a big step Taverham drawing their opening game haven’t looked back losing just the one game and that only a month ago. Fakenham coming into the game hit by injuries and unavailability meaning they had just the bare 11.
Taverham were on the front foot from the off the game soon becoming a classic of attack versus defence, Fakenham with their backs to the wall battling hard deep in their half ans Taverham poured forwards. Teigan Robinson getting the break through breaking into the area o score from the rebound to put the visitors into the lead. Chloe Easter making some vital saves in the Fakenham goal. It was more of the same 2nd half Fakenham rarely in the Taverham half, digging in battling as opportunities came and went for Taverham to put the game to bed, denied by the post, Easter again their to save, late into the game Fakenham got forwards forcing a corner on the right a goal bound shot blocked by an arm the referee pointing to the spot a last gasp chance for Fakenham to rescue a point, captain Sian Sands to take now mistake her strike just about eluding Taverham goalkeeper Laura Beevor to find the back of the net and see the game end 1-1. The title remains in Taverham’s hands victory in their final game of the season away to Hockering will see them crowned champions in their first season in women’s football.
The battle for runners-up spot still very much alive with a 3 way tie on 37 points between 2nd placed Long Stratton Women and Fakenham Town Ladies pushed down to 4th on goal difference as Tavern Ladies nestle in between them in 3rd. A game in hand on Long Stratton too, Fakenham with 5 left to play having games in hand on both. Tavern were in action this Sunday on the East Coast taking on Gorleston Rangers Ladies. The Dereham based side scoring plenty of goals this season, none more so than Katie Hart-Copsey as she was on target once again at the weekend on fire scoring all 5 goals in the game to become the 2nd player (would have been the first but I started in Essex this week) in the East to rack up 50 goals for the season!
Freethorpe Ladies move up the Division Two table once again this Sunday winning at home against Thetford Town Ladies to slot into 5th place in the table. A big win too against a Thetford side once again struggling for numbers. Andrea Colbrook scoring a hat-trick in the game for Freethorpe. Keira Squires on target for a brace, there were goals too for Claire Garner, Robyn Steele and a first of the season for Michaela Stordy in an 8-0 victory.
At the other end of the Division One table it has been a long hard 1st season in women’s football for Bulldogs Ladies. Playing their final league game of the season this Sunday they ended on a high with a strong 2nd half shoeing against Horsford Women to claim victory for just the 2nd time this season. 2-1 up at half-time Bulldogs went on to add a further 6 goals without reply in the 2nd half to win the game 8-1. Emma Johnson scoring a hat-trick for Bulldogs. Also getting on the scoresheet were Stevie-Leigh Malkinson, Emily Hinsley, Sara-Jane Langford and Rachael Barrett with her 1st goal for Bulldogs. Lois Irving with the early first half goal for Horsford.
This season’s Essex Women’s Women’s League Cup Final will see Leigh Ramblers Ladies taking on Harlow Town Ladies Development for the trophy, two young upcoming sides both doing well in the Premier Division this season. Leigh Ramblers Ladies challenging for the title itself now into the final after overcoming fellow Premier Division side Southend United Ladies in the last 4 this weekend. A challenging draw to get t the final for Leigh Ramblers taking on sides 1st. 3rd, 5th and now 6th in the Premier Division. Kate Newton, top scorer for Leigh Ramblers this season netting a brace to see them win the game 2-0 taking her to 32 goals for the season. The League Cup Final taking place on Sunday 19th may at Runwell Sports FC.
Essex Women’s Division One
4 games played in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday and Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies hold onto top spot for another week at least as 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies were beaten at home to 3rd placed Hutton Ladies Reserves on Sunday. A goal form Emily Wilton along with a 10th goal of the season for Baylie Kingsnorth enough to clinch the 3 points for the visitors winning the match 2-1 with Hollie Dimambro Bovington getting the goal for Billericay. The 3 points ensuring Hutton will continue to pressure runners-up spot right until the final day with 3 games left to play.
The other side that can chase down league leaders Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies are Rayleigh Town Ladies up to 4th now with 6 games still to play are 15 points back from top spot likely t be awarded several points due to opposition due to games called off are scoring plenty of goals this season. Notably Isabelle Wallings, scoring 4 at the weekend as they took on Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves at home those goals pushing Wallings onto an incredible 50 goals for the season. Wasn’t the top scorer in the game however with Eleasha Reeves on target for 5 goals to take her own tally to 23 for the campaign. Also moving onto 23 goals for the season is Holly Gash with a goal plus 2 for Kristina Stavrinou her first goals for Rayleigh Town who ran out 12-0 winners. A big game to come with Rayleigh at home to Billericay Town Ladies Reserves in a fortnights time.
Belhus Ladies climb back up to 7th spot in the Essex Women’s Division One table winning at home to bottom side Island Ladies this Sunday. Goals from Aimee Hunt, Hayley Freeman and a first goal of the season for Paige Pervaill seeing them to a 3-1 win. Ebonnie Williams getting on the scoresheet for Island.
The points shared in the final match to bring you from Division One this Sunday with Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves holding 5th placed FC Clacton Ladies to a 2-2 draw at home at the weekend. Clacton leading 1-0 at half-time Leigh Ramblers scoring twice in the 2nd half as they battled back to get a point. Stacy Bott from the penalty spot and Emily Hamlin scoring for Leigh Ramblers. Charlotte Warren scoring for Clacton her 13th strike of the season with Lucy-May Cushway also getting a goal her first for Clacton in just her 3rd appearance.
Tiptree &District Charity Cup
Chelmsford City Ladies were at home to Frontiers Ladies in the semi-final of the Tiptree & District Charity Cup this Sunday. Two early goals for the visitors doing the damage seeing Frontiers reach the final. Anna Freeman and Jill Bartholomew with the goals to secure a 2-0 victory.
