A 13 point lead now for Cambridge City Ladies at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. 17 unbeaten now in the league as they recorded a 16th win of the season against Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday. A brace from striker Shannon Shaw taking her to 16 for the season along with a goal from Carla Penny also her 16th of the season securing a 3-1 win for Cambridge City in Essex. A quick turnaround as they return to action on Tuesday evening at The Abbey Stadium looking to defend the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup against rivals Cambridge United WFC, both sides showing great form going into the match.
A blow for 2nd placed Royston Town Ladies on Sunday as they lost for the third time this season away to Harlow Ladies. The Essex side picking up a great win at home as they look to consolidate a top half first in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. Olivia Steele scoring for Harlow her 10th of the season, also on target with a goal in a 2-0 win for Harlow was Bethany Chambers fast closing in on double figure herself with 9 goals now from just 5 appearances.
Other results going their way see Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies climb up into 2nd spot in the ERWFL Premier Division, themselves enjoying a fantastic first season playing at this level. A point earned in the reverse fixture recently Wymondham Town Ladies were hosting Peterborough Northern Star Ladies this Sunday. Wymondham getting into an early lead with Hannah Waters scoring inside 15 minutes to put them 1-0 up. Goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan with a couple of vital saves to keep Peterborough from levelling. Waters with the assist setting up Mollie O’Callaghan to double Wymondham’s lead in the 34th minute. Leah Newcombe with a goal line clearance as Peterborough looked to get back into the game, top scorer Laura Nicholls putting the result beyond doubt scoring a 3rd goal for Wymondham in the 90th minute.
Wymondham Town Ladies, Hannah Waters
One other game played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday saw Hertfordshire side Colney Heath Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Acle United Women. A close fought game the deadlock broken in the 85th minute with Broghan Scully finding the back of the net from a free-kick for Acle. The game though abandoned in the 94th minute due on medical advice after Acle’s Kate Pasque suffered a neck injury in a collision, unable to be moved an ambulance called for has since been released suffering from whiplash, wish her well. Whether the result will stand or a replay is called I will confirm as I have the news.
ERWFL Division One
With the top two not in league action on Sunday in ERWFL Division One it was a chance for the chasing pack to close the gap. Third placed Newmarket Town Ladies travelling to play Hatfield Peverel Ladies, the Essex side improving in recent games adding to their squad Newmarket struggling to get going needed a late equaliser to take a point from the game, Jasmine Cox scoring a brace has 5 now in 5 appearances for Hatfield Peverel. Brooke Wickens with her 12th of the season for Newmarket the visitors awarded a penalty late on Annabel Cuthbert scoring it to make it 2-2 with her 10th since joining the club.
Hutton Ladies in 4th were hosting Hertfordshire side Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday. Hoddesdon with a good first half getting into a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Rebecca Scola, Kristina O’Connell an Rosy Wodhams late in the half. Hayley Piggott scoring for Hutton. The Essex side scoring another in the 2nd period, Wodhams getting her 2nd on 58 minutes and a goal in the 85th minute from Chloe Makepeace securing a 5-2 win for Hoddesdon.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies travelled down to Wodson Park on Sunday to take on Hertford Town Ladies who have been in great form recently with 2 wins and 3 draws from their last six games including 3 draws against the top two. The visitors from Norfolk going home with all 3 points in a narrow win, Hertford scoring 2 goals, Tiffany Forshaw struck twice for King’s Lynn to take the striker onto 20 for the season plus and own goal to win the game 3-2.
Histon Ladies were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies in Division one this Sunday, the Cambridgeshire side winning the game 2-0 to claim the 3 points with Alison Wright scoring her 11th goal of the season from the penalty spot. Lucy Julian also finding the back of the net with her first goal for Histon.
The game between Stevenage Ladies Reserves and Lawford Ladies abandoned due to a nasty injury to a Lawford player, wishing the player concerned all the best for a speedy recovery.
Coventry United Ladies extend their unbeaten league run this season to 14 matches with a big home result on Sunday to maintain their 4 point lead at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Playing in 3G were taking on Gillingham Ladies who have been stripped of their place in the FAWNL Plate Final after fielding an ineligible player in the semi-finals, this sees semi-final opponents West Bromich Albion Women advance to the final the 2nd season on a row this has occurred with Flyde Ladies suffering a similar fate last season.
Gillingham falling behind to an early goal as Lois Jefferies headed the ball in from a corner kick to give Coventry a 3rd minute lead. Amber Hughes sliding in at the far post to finish a cross doubling the lead midway through the first half. Jefferies making it 3-0 with a shot across the keeper, a 4th goal quickly followed with Amy Wathan striking moments later. Coventry leading 4-0 at the break. Hughes with her 2nd of the game extending Coventry’s lead just seconds into the 2nd half. A powerful strike from distance from Marie Gauntlett bringing up a 6th goal. Beth Merrick coming on in the 2nd half for Hughes making an immediate impact cutting inside to shoot from range and score. Wathan with a bullet header from another corner scoring Coventry’s 8th from close range. Gauntlett off a free-kick out wide scoring another spectacular goal from distance sealing a 9-0 victory for Coventry.
Also a big win too for 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies as they bring an end to a run of 3 straight defeats in the lead. Travelled to Essex on Sunday to play bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The visitors taking the lead midway through the first half Jess Lewry brought down inside the box stepping up to take and score the resulting penalty. A 2nd goal quickly coming Kim Stenning volleying in at the far post from a Nadine Bazan cross to open her Chichester account. Molly Clark sending in a 3rd goal 3 minutes later, a 4th goal coming in first half injury time with Clark getting her 2nd beating the keeper to score.
Chichester on the front foot right from the off in the 2nd half creating chances, 63 minutes on the clock an Clark gets her hat-trick. Sara Tubby introduced to the action making an instant impact putting the ball over the keeper to make it 6-0. Into the final 5 minutes Chichester pushing for more goals Clark finding the back of the net for her 4th of the afternoon. Tubby scoring her 2nd of the game in stoppage time to secure an 8-0 win for Chichester.
Cardiff City came back from a goal down to secure the win at home with a late goal on Sunday in a hard fought contest with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to maintain the pressure on 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies. The visitors scoring from a curled effort in the 13th minute, Milton Keynes Dons held the advantage for much of the game closing in on the final 20 minutes the Welsh side came back to level with Chloe Lloyd scoring from a 25 yarder to make it 1-1. The winner coming with 6 minutes left to play Cardiff hitting Milton Keynes on the break Kylie Nolan round the keeper pulling it back for Grace Horrell to chip over the defence from 18 yards out and score to win it 2-1.
A fantastic crowd of 846 in attendance at Home Park on Sunday as Plymouth Argyle Ladies took centre stage at the League One sides ground. Were hosting Portsmouth FC Women. The visitors taking the lead on 19 minutes from a short corner taker Katie James getting the ball back from Rachel Panting coming up the line and scoring with a superb strike from wide to make it 1-0 2 in 2 from James. Plymouth levelling the scores minutes later winning a corner up the other end the ball into the six yard box Kayley Lane turning six yards out and scoring to make it 1-1. Jade Widdows scoring her first Portsmouth goal last weekend restoring the visitors lead with 10 minutes left to play in the first half scoring from the angle outside the box to make it 2-1. Natasha Knapman introduced to the action for Plymouth in the 67th minute making an impact as she levelled the scores for the 2nd time in the match minutes later getting onto the end of a Lane cross to see Plymouth earn a share of the points.
Queens Park Rangers Women came back from 2 goals down at home on Sunday to earn themselves a point against Loughborough Foxes Women. Goalless heading into the final minute of the first half Tiana Hicks bringing the ball on getting a shot away from the top of the area finding the bottom corner to put Loughborough into the lead her first goal of the season. An hour played Loughborough bring on Eva Rogers another substitute making an immediate impact on hand to bury a shot from inside the box after Shauna Chambers blast was blocked the rebound falling kindly. QPR getting a goal back almost straight away Courtney Ward-Chambers with a strike from distance over the keeper to make it 2-1. Ward-Chambers coming close to making it 2-2 hitting the post in the 71st minute. Jo Wilson beating the offside trap putting the ball over the line to level the scores with 12 minutes left to play. 7 points from 3 matches Loughborough covering over 700 miles in that time move back up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table.
Their U23s side winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup earlier in the day, Watford Ladies 1st team were at home to Oxford United Women in the afternoon. The visiting side taking an early lead with Emily Allen scoring from a corner in the 16th minute. The lead doubled late in the first half from another corner with new signing Gemma Sims scoring her 1st league goal in the 43rd minute. 2-0 up at half-time Watford getting it back to 2-1 early on from a corner routine Katherine Huggins taking getting it back to put in from wide her ball in creeping in at the near post. Oxford soon restoring their 2 goal cushion Lauren Haynes with a great finish from 20 yards out to make it 3-1. A left wing cross turned into thier own net by Watford saw Oxford go 4-1 with 12 minutes left to play Danielle Scanlon on in the last 10 minutes scoring from a free-kick wide on the left to reduce the deficit to 4-2, Oxford in 4th winning the 3 points, 5 points off 2nd placed Chichester with 2 games in hand.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games played in FAWNL South East Division One on Sunday. League leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies dropping points for the 1st time since promotion to the league last weekend held to a 0-0 draw with Cambridge United WFC. Hardly a blip as they came back strong in midweek with a 4-0 away win against 3rd placed Actonians Ladies. This Sunday Crawley were at at home taking on Norfolk side Norwich City Ladies. Lauren Graves making her first appearance in goal for Crawley’s first team. The hosts taking an early lead Megan Stow firing them into the lead inside 10 minutes. Rachel Palmer’s corner floated in to the far post bringing up Crawley’s 2nd in the 22nd minute. Kemina Webber rounding the keeper on the half hour to make it 3-0, finishes from Naomi Cole and Darcey James late in the first half seeing Crawley into a 5-0 lead. Jenny Drury scoring a 6th goal for Crawley early in the 2nd half Stow going on to claim a hat-trick securing an 8-0 win to see Crawley take a 10 point lead at the top of the table.
A good week for Cambridge United WFC building on a confidence boosting point earned against Crawley at home last Sunday beat Norwich City Ladies 1-0 to push into contention in mid-table in midweek. At home again this Sunday were taking on Actonians Ladies. Cambridge taking the lead through captain Kelley Blanchflower the striker running on to beat the keeper to the ball take it wide and send the ball over the line. Cambridge hitting Actonians on the counter to score a 2nd Blanchflower left inside for Becky Shephard inside the area digging the ball out from her feet to make it 2-0. Alessandra Barreca scoring from a free-kick in the 37th minute pulling a goal back for Actonians. A break in play early in the 2nd half as a torrential hailstorm hit the ground the players retreating to the dressing room. The sun soon returning, Mollie Coupar from inside the box heading in a free-kick to put Cambridge 3-1 up. An handball inside the box seeing Cambridge awarded a penalty Shephard burying it to score her 2nd of the game. Coupar with a chipped effort scoring her 2nd of the game to seal a 5-1 win for Cambridge who move up into the top half of the table. Back in action on Tuesday evening at The Abbey Stadium with momentum going into the Cambridge Women’s Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies.
It’s that time of the season again, the first final, a trip down to Letchworth this morning, The County Ground once again hosting the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup with holders Stevenage Ladies taking on Watford Ladies U23s.
FAWNL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies looking to retain the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup for a 3rd successive season. Have dominated the competition in recent seasons with this being a fifth successive final appearance, winning 3 of the previous 4 finals. Strong in their defence of the County Cup an established side now in the FAWNL. Have had their fair share of injuries, including captain Paige Logie out with a season ending ACL injury.
Watford Ladies U23s entering the competition for the first time this season. Watford themselves dominating the County Cup in its early years 5 times winners in 2005,2006,2007, 2008, 2010, reached all but one final between 2005 & 2013. Not entering the competition during their FAWSL years a Watford Ladies Development side won the competition 3 seasons ago beating Stevenage prior to their back to back successes. Watford Ladies U23s play in the FAWNL Reserves South/South East Division. Have goal scorers throughout their squad with several players getting their chance with the 1st team.
Road to the Final
A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Both were at home in the 2nd Round both progressing with ease as they racked up double figure wins. Stevenage Ladies were playing Beds & Herts Division Two side, Hitchin Belles. A overwhelming win with the hosts scoring 16 goals on their way to the quarter finals. Watford Ladies U23s were at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves side, 8 different goalscorers, with Jessica Biggerstaff scoring a hat-trick as Watford advanced with a 12-1 victory.
Home draws for both sides once more in the quarter finals, Stevenage Ladies up against Royston Town Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side County Cup finalists in the 2016/17 season. Stevenage coming out on top recording a good win over Royston winning 7-2 to reach the last 4. Watford were taking on another ERWFL Premier Division side, Colney Heath Ladies in the quarter finals a 5-0 win seeing them book their place in the semi-finals of the competition.
Stevenage Ladies were away for the 1st time in the County Cup drawn away to ERWFL Division One side, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. A repeat of last season’s final Stevenage retaining the trophy with a comfortable win then 8-0 to lift the trophy. Once again the FAWNL side were dominant as they reached their (insert) final with a 7-0 win. Watford again at home as they took on Beds & Herts Division One side Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies in the semi-finals, a 3-0 lead at half-time went on to win the game 8-0 with six different names on the scoresheet.
The County Ground in Letchworth the venue for today’s final home of Hertfordshire FA, the stadium recently undergoing some redevelopment including a new 3G playing surface replacing the grass pitch, barriers and surround upgraded. A redeveloped clubhouse area too, a new cafe replacing the old bar with function room beyond. Hot and cold drinks available. An early kick-off, breakfast too a burger van selling hot food in it’s usual berth. Storm Hannah the latest to blow through the UK bringing over night wind and rain. A 3G surface meaning a call off unlikely cool early on and overcast dark clouds threatening the rain would hold off the sun breaking through.
The new playing surface at The County Ground looking pristine
Watford Ladies U23s starting XI – Amy Martin, Ayifa Johnson, Holly Holt, Danielle Maloney, Sydney Hinchcliffe, Katie Akerman, Rebecca McShane (C), Andie Dickens, Linda Afuakwah, Eshe Johnson & Anaisa Harvey. Subs – Jennifer Hughes, Jessica Biggerstaff, Hannah Coote, Holly Greenwood & Alketa Rragami.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Stevenage to get the final underway kicking off first half wearing white shirts with light red vertical stripes, red shirts and socks with Watford lined up opposite wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Watford press early Andie Dickens on the left win tackling winning possession getting in behind to cross Charlotte Ryan clearing the ball inside her area for Stevenage.
Nicole Emmings receiving the ball in attack for Stevenage turns to her left sending the ball on down the line with Ellie Searle looking to break in behind, Afiya Johnson getting back well to make the tackle. Stevenage are awarded an early free-kick 35 yards out central Shona Chitate to take the ball put into the area for runners to attack, Watford goalkeeper Amy Martin taking it on the bounce. Watford press the ball high up the pitch, Stevenage rushed into their passes Poppy Bennett’s forwards ball up to Emmings, Sydney Hinchcliffe doing well up against her for Watford preventing the attacker getting in on goal.
Dickens getting forwards left has support from Eshe Johnson in attack getting the return ball as she breaks into the box her early shot races wide past the far post. A corner for Watford right side the ball delivered into the near post defended the clearance falling to Watford’s Anaisa Harvey outside the area strikes the ball back in towards goal is safely held by Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis
Stevenage defender, Poppy Bennett getting to the ball ahead of Watford’s Linda Afuakwah
A bright start from Watford, lively early on closing Stevenage down quick to mount attacks, Emmings and captain Amy Makewell looking to move around find space up top for Stevenage to play them in. Linda Afuakwah with the ball at her feet for Watford on the right drives down the line cutting inside get’s past one defender the ball coming to Eshe Johnson near post she blasts wide from six yards out. A quick turn around from Stevenage the ball from Amy Josland through the middle helped on to Emmings peeling away into a gap on the left runs on into the area the shot on Emmings instead puts it in towards the penalty spot, her cross intercepted as Watford get back the ball sent clear.
Emmings is through clear in behind moment later central 30 yards out gives chase to the ball, Martin racing out of her area gets there first however to kick the ball away before the striker can capitalise. Watford get on down the left the cross in headed behind for a corner kick, the delivery near post attacked ends up behind for a 2nd corner, this one again from the left higher Vandersluis getting up to glove the ball on wide and behind for a 3rd corner on the right this time.
GOAL! Watford open the scoring from the corner put in towards the near post area 8 yards out the ball is turned back in towards goal, Stevenage doing well initially to clear the ball off the line the clearance out to the left falling straight to Watford’s Hinchcliffe the centre back smashing a low shot back across goal into the back of the net 0-1.
Sydney Hinchcliffe with the opening goal for Watford Ladies U23s
Amy Makewell carries the ball on down the right, is stopped by Watford’s Holly Holt. Ashleigh Deacon combines with Chitate as Stevenage try to play Makewell in behind, play brought back by referee Lyn McGregor after there was no advantage after Chitate was fouled. Ryan over the free kick inside the Watford half as players go forwards, the delivery high into the area punched down by martin falls straight to Dominique Godbeer positioned just inside the area catches it on the volley her attempt over the bar.
Stevenage Ladies, Dominique Godbeer
A good response from Stevenage having fallen behind Josland and Chitate enjoying a competitive battle with Watford captain Rebecca McShane and Katie Akerman. Challenges a plenty. Afuakwah on the ball right for Watford lays it on through the middle for Harvey, the striker unable to gather the ball races through into the area Dickens lively after it, Hayley Wood-Thompson back with her the Stevenage full back putting Dickens under pressure as she blasts her shot wide.
Afuakwah is fouled by Searle outside the area 20 out right of the D, Dickens over it with an early shot over the wall striking the base of the near post… but she had gone to soon wait for the whistle, retaken Dickens puts it over this time. Makewell taking the ball on down the right a powerful run turns inside getting into the box, is eventually stopped as 3 Watford defenders converge to close her down six yards out. Watford quick to counter Afuakwah a ready outlet on their right down the line her cross in cleared by Godbeer. Stevenage return the counter attack with interest putting Searle in on the left closing in on the area her cross inside only finding the Watford defence. Makewell drags a shot wide from the top of the area, the flag raised against her however.
Linda Afuakwah on the attack for Watford
Makewell linking with Deacon for Stevenage as Emmings breaks down the right wins a corner. The delivery well played drops into the six yard box Deacon with her back to goal closely marked by Martin can’t get around her to shoot the ball scrambled away to the right Makewell drives a shot back in the effort narrowly wide. Play turned around quickly fro both sides the game played at a good tempo, Hinchcliffe with some great defending on Makewell as she is played through on goal centrally.
Stevenage Ladies, Ashleigh Deacon
Appeals for handball waved away as Stevenage press Watford outside their area, Hinchcliffe’s arm raised as Makewell attempts to flick it on. A free kick for Stevenage on halfway knocked on by Josland puts Deacon in behind right into the box, Martin out to close her down saves well at her feet, the ball knocked away Martin grounded pouncing to claim the loose ball. 40 minutes played.
Watford Ladies U23s goalkeeper, Amy Martin
GOAL! Watford have dealt with a spell of pressure from Stevenage well breaking forwards double their lead just before half-time the ball knocked on is into Dickens on the left just outside the area hits the ball well arrowing in towards goal Vandersluis dives to her left full stretch but can’t keep it out as the ball squeezes inside the post 0-2.
Andie Dickens scorer of Watford’s 2nd goal
Plenty of rubber in the new pitch flying up as sliding tackles come in, lively Stevenage getting frustrated with some decisions. Afiya Johnson forwards to support Eshe and Afuakwah on the right the trio win a corner, played long to the top of the box a shot driven in Vandersluis diving the ball behind for another set piece this time Stevenage defend break on the counter, Josland on for Emmings, Danielle Maloney defends for Watford.
Stevenage with a free-kick at the end of the first half the ball defended in the box by Watford’s Afuakwah she brings it away the ball played on to Eshe Johnson she plays it through for Harvey who is tackled by Godbeer, McShane bursting forwards regaining possession picks out Afuakwah into space on the right full of pace takes the ball on into the box blasting a rising shot into the side netting.
A 2-0 lead for Watford at half-time a bright start pressing the ball, forcing their opponents into rushed passes took the early lead, defended well as Stevenage sought to find gaps in behind created opportunities to find an equalising goal the temp high throughout Watford dealing with the pressure ready to go on the attack hit a 2nd late in the first half to give themselves a good platform to build on 2nd half. Stevenage will want to come out of the blocks strong at the start of the 2nd period if they want to get back into the game.
It’s Watford to get the 2nd half underway, Stevenage in to get on the ball, Chitate with Bennett the ball launched forwards with Emmings running clear in behind left channel Martin coming out to close the angle saving well getting her gloves onto the ball. Emmings appeals for a penalty as she ends up on the ground inside the box trying to see the ball into her body from a Searle throw in on the right, the appeals waved away. Josland gets across to tackle Afuakwah as Eshe Johnson aims to send her away on the right.
Stevenage Ladies, Ellie Searle
Bennett is down with a knock for Stevenage, an early change in the 2nd half as she comes off, on in her place Cara Breckenridge. Searle making ground on the left wing for Stevenage a cross in low across the face of goal from deep Emmings diving to head the ball just misses it at the near post the ball racing on. Akerman bringing the ball on for Watford through the middle plays it forwards with Eshe Johnson pulling away right shoots early from outside the area, Vandersluis claims it.
Hannah Vandersluis down to save for Stevenage Ladies
A good start to the 2nd half for Stevenage they press forwards, Holt and Maloney both denying final balls for Watford. A throw won on the left played into Josland the Stevenage midfielder shooting from 20 yards out left her strike held into Martins midriff. Watford counter the ball central played out to Dickens left has Holt breaking ahead of her on the overlap the fullback turning inside central closing in on the D, thinks about shooting instead attempts to thread it through for Harvey the Stevenage defence shutting the door the clearance intercepted by Akerman 30 yards out given time to line up a shot her strike doesn’t trouble Vandersluis.
Katie Akerman bringing the ball away for Watford
Emmings closing down Watford at the back wins the ball outside the box a snap shot right of the D races wide. play brought back after no advantage from a foul Watford have a free-kick 25 yards out to the left of goal, Maloney on it goes for goal the attempt landing wide of the near post. An hour on the clock Stevenage make a 2nd change with Erin Pope coming on for Josland. Afuakwah central runs in behind the Stevenage defence 25 yards out as Vandersluis comes to narrow the angle the Watford attacker shoots her effort past the keeper runs wide of the post.
GOAL! A corner won on the left as Akerman winning the tackle in midfield plays it out to Dickens on the left support from Holt who gets the corner. The delivery on the spot into the middle of the six yard box 3 Watford players attack it Hinchcliffe, Eshe Johnson and between them Harvey who gets up highest to head the ball down and in to make it 0-3.
Stevenage make another change Chitate coming off on comes Amy Runicman to join the attack. A minute later Watford make a change and it’s the goalscorer coming off Harvey replaced by Jennifer Hughes. A free-kick wide right for Stevenage, Makewell plays in towards the far post Martin up to glove the ball away for a corner kick, delayed as the trainer comes on for an injury. Watford defending the set piece break Afuakwah through the centre now on for Hughes peeling into space on the left her cross into the box cut out, Eshe Johnson bundled over as she tries to collect just outside the D. Akerman with the free-kick her shot no trouble for Vandersluis.
Watford Ladies U23s, Danielle Maloney
Emmings after a forwards pass on her right checks inside to get into the area, Hinchcliffe challenging the ball put behind for a corner. In from the right to the near post area Runicman gets over the ball shooting held safely as Martin gets across. Stevenage getting frustrated Watford working hard to keep up the tempo challenge for everything, decisions not going Stevenage’s way. Afuakwah run of running with the ball has Hughes to her right giving her the ball she shoots 20 yards out Vandersluis going to ground pushing the ball behind at the near post. Makewell and Emmings link up get Deacon in on the left her shot outside the box charged down.
GOAL! Counter attacking play from Watford leads to a 4th goal Stevenage pushing for a goal are hit on the break the ball put n quickly for Eshe Johnson through the centre clear on goal closing in on the area right of the D, composed as Vandersluis moves towards her, the striker placing the ball wide of the keeper and into the bottom corner with less than 20 minutes to play 0-4.
Eshe Johnson puts Watford into a 4 goal lead
Stevenage very nearly pull a goal back from the restart as Makewell is played in on the right down the wing crosses from deep a dangerous ball across the face of goal Emmings meets the ball, virtually on top of Martin the keeper going to ground somehow managing to make the save smothering both ball and player, Emmings trying to get over the keeper to reach the loose ball, Martin snatches it away. Emmings down injured after the coming together, a spell of on the pitch treatment before needing to come off, on comes Melody Jones
Makewell tries to get Pope in on goal as she breaks through the middle, she sees Searle getting clear on the left tries to play the pass through, McShane backtracking doing well to intercept get the ball back to her keeper. Watford with a change as Dickens comes off Hannah Coote going over to her position on the left. Coote with an early chance as she is played in with a crossfield pass, lets fly from 25 yards out, Vandersluis with a great save diving to her right to push the ball wide for a corner.
Watford’s, Hannah Coote
Watford’s turn to appeal for a penalty as the ball comes into the area, play goes on cleared out of the box collected by Hughes on the right sends a cross back in to the far post Maloney up to meet it sends her header wide. Watford think they’ve scored a 5th as the ball is put over the top Vandersluis saving the first strike Afuakwah burying the rebound. The celebrations cut short however assistant Gemma Smith with her flag up and early too before Vandersluis blocked the first attempt no goal.
Afuakwah comes off with Watford’s top scorer Jessica Biggerstaff coming on. Biggerstaff getting in on the action straight away as she runs on through to send a shot into the side netting. Afiya Johnson linking with Hughes on the right the ball taken to the byline cut back centrally Eshe Johnson with the shot Vandersluis with a superb save. Tempers getting a little frayed Stevenage have been frustrated by their opponents Searle collecting a yellow card.
A double change late in proceedings for Watford, Eshe Johnson and McShane off, on come Alketa Rragami and Holly Greenwood. Watford finish strong Biggerstaff with space in the box sees her shot deflected onto the keeper to spin away for a corner. A push in the back spotted as Watford play it in. Stevenage with a corner in stoppage time on the left the ball in Searle up to meet it near side her header wide across the face of goal. The final whistle blows and Watford Ladies U23s bundle atop one another in celebration as they win the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.
Full time Stevenage Ladies 0-4 Watford Ladies U23s
A fantastic result for Watford’s U23s played well throughout a bright start pressing well, restricting the time their opponents had on the ball getting in front early on Stevenage responding well fighting back didn’t get the decisions growing frustrated as opportunities wen by Watford doubling their lead before half-time. Stevenage you felt needed the next goal as it was Watford were the side to find the back of the net to go 3-0 up. Stevenage could not find a reply to pressure the scoreline Watford strong as they took a 4 goal lead never looking back.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football east – Player of the Match award. A good performance all round from Watford Ladies U23s putting some good attacking moves together, defending well, Amy Martin with some very confident and brave goalkeeping. Have chosen Linda Afuakwah was a threat throughout on the right then through the middle making some great runs taking players on and creating chances, always an outlet making herself available whenever Watford won the ball.
Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Winners, Watford Ladies U23s
Congratulations to Watford Ladies U23s on winning the Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup.
An early kick-off, managed to avoid the torrential down pour that came after the game. A match report finished before 10pm is a rarity too but lots to do, the finals coming thick and fast now the next on Tuesday. An entertaining match a good number coming to watch, my thanks to Hertfordshire FA for all their help today, much appreciated.
A late call this Wednesday evening for a spot of midweek football action under the lights, a trip down to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Norwich City Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Arriving 20 minutes before kick-off the warm ups well underway, the team line-ups readily available, soon set for kick-off. The two sides currently sitting 7th and 8th in the South East Division one respectfully, Cambridge United WFC moving a point clear of Norwich City Ladies as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season holding them to a goalless draw at home at the weekend. Blustery conditions after heavy rain overnight, Norwich saw there game away to Stevenage Ladies called off on Sunday due to a water logged pitch.
A win for either tonight pushing them right onto the tails of the sides battling for a top half finish. Cambridge with a confidence boosting performance to get a point against Crawley looking to continue that form as they prepare of next weeks Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies being played at the Abbey Stadium on Tuesday evening. Will also want to put in a better performance against Norwich having been beaten by them 3-0 with a few regulars unavailable in the reverse fixture back at the start of October.
Norwich have saved some off their best performances for thier games under the lights, 3 of their 5 wins so far this season coming in midweek fixtures, all against their East Anglian rivals, once against Cambridge with the double over Ipswich Town Women. Building well this season after a couple of seasons battling at the wrong end of the table, should be safe from getting dragged into the bottom two this season, like Cambridge well placed with a positive result having the same effect. Missing a few experienced players tonight especially at the back however have given several young players opportunities this season and most have performed well when called upon.
A calm evening the air still after Storm Gareth had blown through earlier. Cool, glad the blustery conditions had passed it wasn’t fun on Sunday. The pitch set on a slope at Mildenhall Town from one goal to the the other, a good size offering plenty of width. The bar clubhouse open.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Vicky Neal, Amber Cantwell, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Amy Howlett (C) & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Fran Gough, Kelley Blanchflower & Holly Turbill.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Keunna Dill, Lilly Bueggeln, Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake (C), Eliza McDonald, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling, Reeanna Cook & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Kirstie Smith, Rosie George, Louise Kennedy & Elli-Ray Quinn-Nicholls.
Norwich choose to attack up the slope first half with Cambridge taking the kick off wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Norwich in their away colours green shirts and socks with yellow shorts. The ball moved left as Cambridge attack Jade Bell down the wing winning a throw in the ball played on into the top of the box headed clear by Norwich’s Tigi Robson. Cambridge press Norwich for possession early on closing them down Bell left the cross into the area Mollie Coupar receiving the ball near post back to goal a turn and hit blocked at close range the rebound blasted over at the far post.
Aimee Durrant taking the ball on gets in behind on the right wing for Norwich her cross off the mark screwed wide behind the Cambridge goal. Norwich captain Jodie Drake regaining possession right puts in on for Durrant she squares it inside for Eliza McDonald, Coupar coming back to quickly close the midfielder down to win it back for Cambridge the ball played out wide to Bell running on down the left cuts infield, Alice Parker wit Robson closing her down before she can get into the area.
GOAL! Cambridge take the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Amber Cantwell on the ball central passing to Bells left, Becky Shephard racing ahead of her down the line fed the ball drives down to the byline cutting inside fires in a pacy cross across the six yard box with Cambridge’s Amy Howlett wearing the captains armband this evening timing her run perfectly to meet the ball and send it low back across the goal into the bottom corner 1-0.
A good start to the game from Cambridge pressing Norwich for the ball, closing down and moving forwards with purpose and pace in attack. Keumma Dill with the defending for Norwich at the far post as Cambridge send in another cross from the left. Durrant is clipped as she looks to get in behind on the right a free-kick awarded top of the area Durrant over it lifts a ball up into the area, Drake making the run central can’t reach it, over her Jemma Moore heads clear for Cambridge.
A mix-up at the back almost sees Howlett break clear in behind after the ball into the area, Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong alert quickly out to gather the ball before the attacker can get a telling touch. Another free-kick for Norwich left of the D 30 yards out Durrant with it again, goes for goal her strike half a yard over the bar. Good work from Norwich’s Reeanna Cook in midfield the ball put forwards for Chelsea Garrett leading the attack does well to force a throw in in the corner. Garrett receiving the ball from the throw-in on the byline turns well inside the box to send a cross in the ball just behind Natasha Snelling at the far post.
The 50/50 battles going Cambridge’s way, Vicky Neal breaking up a Norwich attack as they try to build through the middle. Kayleigh Anne Burt smashing a clearance into Neal it rebounds favourably for Bell to break on the left, Parker tackling to stop the cross. Cook with McDonald on through the middle Durrant making a run on the right, Carrie Bennett intercepting the ball for Cambridge.
Breaking up a Cambridge attack Norwich launch a rapid counter attack the ball with Durrant on the right her diagonal ball up towards Garrett central 30 yards out she gets up well to header in down into the path of the advancing Drake, she spots Cook making the run in behind right side the pass put into her inside the area the angle tight she shes it over her shoulder hits it on the volley the strike well over.
Howlett pressing the ball up front forces an error from the Norwich defence runs through to get hold of the ball inside the area plays it back out to Coupar on her right, holding it up Coupar gets it back to Howlett as she moves out to the right the ball into her run she slips as she pulls the trigger, Armstrong making the blocking save as she comes to narrow the angle. Cambridge get on down their left win a corner kick the delivery high into the angle headed out drops to Bell 20 yards out smashes it back in her shot over the bar.
Snelling up on the left receives the ball from Dill, looks to drive on tackled by Emma Jenkins the loose ball gathered by Garrett, Snelling gets inside the ball returned closing in on the area, her shot charged down. McDonald bringing the ball on for Norwich rides Howlett’s challenge, shooting from all of 30 yards out, the attempt not troubling Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith. Cambridge’s pressing game frustrating Norwich as they struggle to get the ball into advanced positions, Neal winning her fair share of tackles the ball inside to Cantwell, forwards for Coupar, Lilly Bueggeln close preventing the striker turning in behind.
Bell away on the left late in the first half a quick counter Norwich stretched cuts the cross into the box from the byline the shot behind, Shephard runs on to Cantwell shoots before Armstrong can get across to her the ball past the keeper is cleared off the line by her defence tracking back. Cambridge finishing the first half well a corner on the right a good delivery in Armstrong up inside her crowded six yard box gets the faintest of touches to the ball to see it run on out the far side for another corner, this again pushed behind by Armstrong coming near post, the keeper laying claim to the 3rd attempt as the whistle blows.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
Cambridge with the early goal holding a 1-0 advantage at the break, started well, closing Norwich down for the ball, quick to attack have frustrated their opponents who have struggled to get anything going in attack. Some last gasp defending preventing Norwich from falling further behind. One goal in it Norwich are far from out of it as the teams emerge for the 2nd half.
No changes for either side at the break Norwich to get the 2nd half underway, The ball out on the right, Durrant pushing on tackled by Bennett. Cook on the ball central looks to thread a pass on for Garrett in attack, Burt defending well up against her. Both sides looking to be positive at the start of the 2nd half, Norwich trying to spread the play. Parker does well winning the challenge inside her box on Howlett as she is played in by Shephard.
A throw high on the right for Cambridge Jemma Moore up from the back to take has a long throw the ball into the area put back to her to cross in Norwich heading the threat clear. Dill showing good pace to get back on Shephard as the Cambridge attacker looks to get away with the ball on the right. Cambridge continue to close down prevent Norwich breaking from inside their own half, Coupar the Neal with the tackles.
Close again from Coupar as she gets up well at the far post to head a cross from the left back in across the face of goal looks destined to lad in the back of the net, Robson doing brilliantly to hook the ball clear off the goal line. Bell linking up with Shephard in attack the latter seeing her shot from outside the area blocked. Neal receives a yellow card aggrieved as she is adjudged to have fouled Armstrong as she and the keeper come together at the top of the area as they both race to win a 50/50 ball.
Snelling getting in behind on the left as Burt can’t get the ball down to clear, the attacker taking it on towards the area puts the cross in, Smith down to claim the ball. Cambridge counter the ball up field quickly Shephard onto a defensive mix-up in behind, closing in on Armstrong the keeper going to ground getting something on the ball stopping it, Shephard looking to retrieve, Armstrong stretching out to get a glove on the ball pull it into her body.
Cambridge make the first change of the game Bennett having picked up a knock coming off, Kelley Blanchflower coming on the switch seeing Bell drop to left back. Cook cutting inside from the left shoots from 25 yards out her effort straight at Smith. Cambridge starting to see more of the ball, Blanchflower working across the defence to receive the ball. Dill doing well up against Howlett on the penalty spot as a cross is delivered into the box from the left.
Norwich’s frustrations continue nothing seems to be coming off in the final 3rd. Coupar driving to the byline from the left into the area gets a cross in, Armstrong has it covered claiming at her near post. Neal stops Norwich getting out as they win the ball from a throw put into the area from the right the midfielder tackling playing the ball on for Coupar her touch taking it inside the box from the left blasts a shot goalwards Armstrong saving well as she comes to block.
Parker into the book for foul a free-kick wide left for Cambridge the ball up towards the area headed away for a throw, Moore to take, once again gets it returned to put the cross in Armstrong claiming taking it off the head of the advancing attacker. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Norwich with a 2nd change Durrant coming off, Snelling switching to the right on comes Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge press the attack Blanchflower on for Coupar checks her run the ball taken from her won back by Jenkins getting forwards puts it on for Shephard looking to get away right side coming into the box, Drake sliding in to make the challenge blocks her shot with her leg.
Coupar is down hurt play eventually stopped after treatment can’t continue on in her place comes Holly Turbill. Starting to get a little nervy out their as much as Cambridge need a 2nd goal they also want a clean sheet, continue to work hard to close the ball down all over the pitch. Howlett fouled by Dill a free-kick for Cambridge right outside the area the delivery in just out of range of Blanchflower jumping central falls unexpectedly to Neal at the far post can’t get it down under control for a shot before the Norwich defence close her down.
A second change for Norwich with Rosie George coming on to replace Snelling. Cook bringing the ball on drake ahead of her plays the diagonal ball out t Stanley left, Jenkins in to challenge with the game into stoppage time. Kirstie Smith coming on for Norwich, Robson fouled trying to get forwards 25 yards out, Cambridge back inside their box to defend, a little scrappy the home side manage to get the ball clear. The ball taken into the corner by Shephard late on, the clock ran down, the final whistle blows Cambridge winning the 3 points.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
A good result for Cambridge, Howlett’s early goal the difference between the sides, Cambridge creating chances to extend the lead Norwich with two goal line clearances to keep them going further ahead. A frustrating evening for Norwich never really got going in attack largely due to Cambridge’s closing down and pressing. All over the pitch kept up the pressure quick to launch attacks the hard work paying off. Nervy towards the end trailing 1-0 Norwich were never out of the game.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, good work from the whole Cambridge team to close down the ball, force errors and break up attacks before they could get going. Jade Bell setting the tone, Amy Howlett making some good runs the award though goes to Vicky Neal little got past her winning the ball in advanced positions keeping the pressure on for Cambridge in the final third.
A late call, so didn’t get a chance to say hello to everyone having to dash at the end too. Good to see both sides, an enjoyable game under the lights, the team details readily available with my notepad I’m all set. The first final of the season upon us this weekend, and that signals the beginning of a usually frantic end to the season, where has the time gone?
It remains an ever changing picture at the top of Beds & Herts Women’s Division One, St Albans Ladies with a big win at home last Sunday the latest side to occupy top spot in the league. This Sunday they were hosting previous leaders Northwood Ladies who ha held fellow title hopefuls Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies to two successive 2-2 draws home and away. The lead changing once again with Northwood coming out on top goals from Danielle Tyler and Megan Warner securing a 2-0 win taking them a point clear of the chasing pack 3 sides all on 23 points.
St Albans Ladies 2nd, Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires are 3rd joining them on 23 points in 4th spot go Houghton Athletic Ladies. An away trip to Garston Ladies 2nd XI this Sunday goals from Shakeela Hussain, top scorers Emily Wilson and a goal for Holly Thomson in her 1st game for Houghton Athletic seeing the visitors win the game 3-1 to move above Hemel Hempstead. Holly Jury with the goal for Garston. Hemel Hempstead two points back from the top 4 crucially have 2 to 3 games in hand on them all.
Also in Division One this Sunday it was a home win for Sharnbrook WFC, earning the 3 points with a narrow victory over Sherrardswood Ladies, Francesca Novelli with a 22nd minute goal for the visitors, Sharnbrook scoring twice to clinch the win 2-1.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
Hitchin Town Ladies won away from home in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday to close the gap to leaders Hitchin Belles back to 3 points with a game in hand. Hitchin Town were taking on Watton Ladies at the weekend. Got off to a fantastic start with Louise Gash through on goal to score inside 2 minutes, 4 minutes later the visitors were 2-0 up Mandy Cain-Murnane trying her luck from distance to score. Both sides battling the windy conditions Watton had a goal disallowed for offside midway through the first half. 2-0 it remained heading into the last 5 minutes Sherrie Evans with her first goal for Hitchin Town scoring in her 3rd appearance to make it 3-0 on 85 minutes, 2 minutes later it was 4-0 with Lauren Wyatt also into her 3rd appearance scoring her first for the club to see Hitchin Town win the game 4-0.
A ninth league win of the season sees Letchworth Garden City Eagles in 4th keep the pressure on the leading pack a point now behind 3rd place Royston Town Ladies Development with 2 games in hand. Letchworth were away to Evergreen Eagles this Sunday. Kate Tempest scoring a hat-trick for the visitors has 7 for the season. Top scorer Tayla Murray also amongst the goals netting a brace to move onto 12 for the campaign, with Emily Jamieson also getting her 7th goal of the season in a 6-2 win for Letchworth.
5th placed Evergreen Ladies were hosting bottom side Welwyn Pegasus Azures this Sunday in Division Two a good first half to the game saw Evergreen into a 5-0 lead with a goals for Rebecca Freeman and Natalie Maher along with her first goals of the season for Amira Nekikeche celebrating a hat-trick. April Spang pulling a goal back for Welwyn early in the 2nd half it was as good as it got with Maher scoring a 2nd of Evergreen to see them run out 6-1 winners.
A single goal enough to secure all 3 points in the other game to report on in Division Two, going to Wheathampstead Wanderers Ladies at home taking on Bedford Ladies Development on Sunday.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
Two matches played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three this Sunday. 5th placed Biggleswade United Ladies consolidating their position with a good result at home to Kempston Rovers Ladies. Sarah King doubling her goals tally for the season as she scored 5 goals on Sunday for Biggleswade to move into double figures. Tashai Simms also finding the back of the net for a goal along with top scorers Leeanne Davison chalking up her 17th of the campaign in a 7-2 win. Meghan Dimmock and Beth Prior scoring for Kempston Rovers.
Stotfold Juniors Ladies climb above Kempston Rovers as a result of that defeat coupled with victory at home on Sunday in the league over Buntingford Town Ladies. Stotfold winning the game 2-0.
The Chris Renshaw Cup
One outstanding quarter final tie remaining in The Chris Renshaw Cup, postponed last time out Division Three leaders AFC Dunstable Ladies Development were away to Garston Ladies 1st team struggling for results in Division One. Garston getting themselves into an early lead 1-0 up after 6 minutes, Dunstable coming back late in the first half to score two quickfire goals to lead 2-1 at the interval, Holly Wilks and top scorer Bianca Vassell with the goals. Garston back on level term 7 minutes into the first half scored a 3rd on the hour to lead 3-2, that would prove to be the winning goal, Garston’s 1st team joining their 2nd XI in the last 4 of the competition, Jane Hales, Emma Trill and Lucy Zecchin the players getting the goals.
Both Garston sides with a home draw in the semi-finals to be played on the 24th March, Garston 1st team up against another Division Three high flyer Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses whilst the 2nd XI are up against Division Two title chasers, Hitchin Town Ladies.
Leigh Ramblers Ladies are enjoying a strong first season in the Essex Women’s Premier Division fighting with Frontiers Ladies are the title itself knocked them out of the League Cup in the last round to set up a quarter final tie away to Collier Row Tigers, the 5th placed side a handful for anyone themselves on the day. Both sides battling the windy conditions too it was an action packed encounter that went all the way to extra-time. Leigh Ramblers coming close in the 90 minutes were leading 3-2 before Collier Row Tigers scored their 3rd in stoppage time to force extra-time the hosts then going on to take the lead before Leigh Ramblers came back to score twice and win through to the last four of the League Cup with a 5-4 win.
Collier Row Tigers without top scorer Laura Bunton their goals coming from Fran Pridie, Daisy Cook, Helen Moreira and Emily Dempsey. Kate newton leading the goal scoring charts for Leigh Ramblers netting a hat-trick in the quarter final has 30 goals for the season.Rebecca Dalgarno also scoring a goal her 14th of the campaign with Amber Denton also finding the back of the net. Leigh Ramblers have a home draw in the semi-finals against fellow Premier Division side, whilst Runwell Sports Ladies from Division One are the home side in the other semi-final to be contested between Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves and Harlow Town Ladies Development this coming Sunday.
Essex Women’s Division One
With the two scheduled Premier Division games falling foul to the weather this Sunday the league action in Essex comes from Division One, leaders Billericay Town Ladies Reserves seeing their game called off it was an opportunity for 2nd placed Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies to join them on 45 points at the top of the table if they could pick up the win at home to bottom side Island Ladies. The visitors with just 10 available, Dagenham & Redbridge claimed the win with a 7-1 win Grace Tebb-Reading scoring a brace takes her tally to 17 for the season, 15 now for Jodie Barden as well as she netted twice for Dagenham & Redbridge. A goal each too for Evie Doyle-Love and Morgan Duffield who both have 6 along with an own goal. Jessica Stafford on the scoresheet for Island.
The top two well clear of the chasing pack the battle for third spot is just as close with 5 points now separating 3rd to 6th. Hutton Ladies Reserves in 3rd at home to 4th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Rayleigh Town with plenty of goal scorers in their squad, Hutton were able to call upon Vicky kinsman top scorer for the 1st team with their game falling foul to the wet weather a crucial league game it was a high scoring match with the sides sharing 10 goals. Hutton emerging with the 3 points winning the game 6-4. Kinsman scoring 5 of those goals for Hutton is having a prolific season in front of goal. Cassandra Piejko finding the back of the net also for Hutton. So too Isabelle Wallings for Rayleigh Tow on target for her 42nd goal of the season. Holly Gash also on target for a goal has 19 now. Amy Cox-Smith getting a goal to with Jameela Walker scoring her first of the season. The win sees Hutton open up a 4 point gap on Rayleigh who remain in a strong position with 3 games in hand on their rivals.
That defeat for Rayleigh Town was good news for Runwell Sports Ladies the League Cup semi finalists up to 4th in the table with a comfortable home win over Belhus Ladies on Sunday in Division One. Rachael Selfe and Ellouise Falconer both scoring a brace in the game for the hosts with Katie Whiter, Victoria Martin and top scorer Aaryanna Simonelli all getting a goal each in a 7-0 win.
Four games played on Sunday in the Suffolk Women’s Division. Needham Market Women remain top ahead of East Bergholt United Ladies only separated by goal difference. East Bergholt with that superiority up until the withdrawal of Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves the goals earned against them chalked off, it’s Needham Market’s turn to push their own goal difference up as they recorded a huge win away to bottom side University of Suffolk Women this weekend.
Needham Market going from strength to strength in their debut season the squad full of goals. 7-0 up at half-time there was no let up in the 2nd half with a further 12 goals scored. 19-0 Abbie Wilkinson top scoring for Needham Market in the game with 4 goals. Francesca Rainbird is Needham Market’s top goalscorer a hat-trick on Sunday moving her to 26 for the season. Also scoring a hat-trick and her first goals for Needham market in only her 2nd game was Emily Steward. Four players netting a brace with Josie Harward, Jemma Wessels, Nicola Henderson and Eboni-May Shephard with her first goals too for Needham market celebrating a brace. Another player getting her first goal for Needham market on Sunday was Amber Leeks in only her 3rd appearance.
East Bergholt United Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on 3rd placed Alresford Colne Rangers, another high scoring game with the sides sharing 9 goals! Top scorers Jo Harvey with a brace and Tiffany Reeves scoring for Alresford have 27 goals between them now. East Bergholt have plenty of goals in their squad too however and hit Alresford for six up the other end to collect the 3 points. Annie Northwood scoring one of those goals has 26 goals recorded for the season now. Elena Nitsche bagging herself a brace there were goals too for Stacey Teager and Charlotte McGrath with Isla Romer-Lee scoring for the 1st time this season in East Bergholt’s 6-3 win. Still have a game in hand on Needham Market.
Brantham Athletic Ladies took advantage of Alresford losing and 4th placed Woodbridge Town Ladies game being postponed to win big at home to climb back up to 3rd place in the Suffolk Women’s Division on Sunday. At home were taking on Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Brantham are another side with a strong attack and Brightlingsea felt the full force as the hosts claimed all 3 points with a 14-1 win to move back up the table.
Brettvale Ladies are having a fantastic start to 2019 strengthening the squad have now won 4 of their 6 league games played so far with just one defeat. A 3rd successive league win coming at home this Sunday against Coplestonians Ladies. Brettvale holding a 2-1 lead at half-time that score was repeated 2nd half to see the hosts run out 4-2 winners. Tarnya McKew joining the squad has added a real goal threat playing at a higher level before hit a hat-trick for Brettvale on Sunday to move onto 14 goals from just 6 appearances. Georgia Lindon with the other goal for Brettvale. Abigail Eley netting both goals for Coplestonians.
Cambridge City Ladies Development return to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership with victory away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Top of goal difference over ICA Sports Ladies, Cambridge City have 3 games in hand on their rivals. Megan Tonks getting on the scoresheet once again for Cambridge City scoring her 28th goal of the season, A goal too for Yasmin Crow along with one for Philippa Witherspoon returning to play for the 1st time this season. Cambridge City winning the game 3-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
Semi-final weekend for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition introduced last season for the clubs competing in the Championship North & South. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East ventured this weekend to watch league rivals Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies go head to head in the last 4 of the competition. Ketton leading the way with a 100% record at the top of the Championship North, Wisbech Town just 3 points behind having lost their first league meeting with two to come. Meeting in the Division One Cup this Sunday the game switched to 3G due to the weather the rain almost gone replace by the blustery winds that affected so many games across the country.
Not ideal weather for a semi-final match, Wisbech adapting to the conditions better taking an early lead Amy Newell firing home from outside the box to make it 1-0. Ketton though they had equalised when a long range free-kick from defender Beth Goodman went in over the keeper but the effort was ruled out with players running offside one close to the keeper. A narrow lead for Wisbech at half-time the weather giving us a bit of everything. The hosts doubling their advantage early in the 2nd half with top scorers Sophie Swinden running clear on the right to send the ball past the keeper.
Chloe Stanborough with the ball at her feet for Wisbech Town Ladies
Claire Lawrenson coming close for Ketton moments later beating the keeper only for defender Kaylie Swinden to get back head her shot wide for a corner. Ketton frustrated couldn’t get anything happening in the final 3rd, the 90 minutes almost up Wisbech were finishing strong pressing for a 3rd goal it came as Chloe Stanborough caught the ball perfectly outside the box to volley the ball home under the diving keeper. 3-0 up into stoppage time Ketton’s goalkeeper Georgia Ireland hurt diving for the ball unable to continue Amy Gray taking up the gloves Wisbech pressed the attack Swinden getting a 2nd goal then going on to complete her hat-trick with Stanborough’s cross/shot finding the top corner in the dying seconds to see Wisbech run out 6-0 winners to reach the final of the Division One Cup.
Their opponents will be St Ives Town Ladies Development after they won their semi-final clash at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Also switched to 3G due to the awful weather. St Ives like Wisbech 2nd in the South table looking to chase down Haverhill Rovers Ladies for the title itself. Jade carpenter scoring a brace in the game for St Ives with Fran Worrall also celebrating a goal in a 3-1 victory.
The date for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Final announced, will be on Friday 12th April with a 7:30pm kick-off at Ely City FC.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday, Cardea Ladies consolidating 3rd position in the table with a home win against 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies. The hosts taking a 10th minute lead through captain Laura Rudd added a 2nd in the 21st minute to take her goals tally to 17 for the season. Naomi Hall scoring a 3rd 4 minutes later to see Cardea holding a 3 goal lead at half-time. Wisbech St Mary threatened a comeback with 2 goals early in the 2nd half Eilish Brown on target to score in the 48th minute, Josie Turner making it 3-2 7 minutes later. Cardea found the back of the net for a 4th goal past the hour to restore a 2 goal cushion, Phoebe Browness getting the goal. Cardea winning the match 4-2.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
Haverhill Rovers Ladies extended their lead at the top Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South to 7 points with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC on Sunday. The visitors enjoying a good season themselves scoring twice against the league leaders, Haverhill in their debut season since returning to women’s football building a strong squad, Joeli Kirby’s goals helping the side as they aim for title success scored two more on Sunday taking her tally for the season to 35. Kayleigh Nolan amongst the goals too scoring at the weekend has 13 now for the campaign with a goal on her debut for Haverhill for Georgina Sparkes in a 4-2 win.
At the other end of a contrasting Championship South table Park Ladies were at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday the sides both with just 3 points each to date along with Burwell Tigers Ladies. Laura Todd, Louisa Harwood and Emily Ingle all getting on the scoresheet for Isleham it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Park scored 5 up the other end to collect the 3 points.
Thorpe United Ladies claim the first honours of the season as they were crowned Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions on Sunday. A 9 point lead at the top of the table going into the weekend have lost just the once in the league from 11 played. The introduction of youth stepping up into the 1st team rejuvenating the squad have led from start to finish. Injuries hampering progress in the cup competitions recently Thorpe went into this Sunday’s home game knowing a positive result would clinch the title. Were taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies who with games in hand on the leaders remained the only side who could catch them.
Sprowston Athletic unlucky in the finish having gotten themselves into a two goal lead with Katie Fray and Keri Boorman on the scoresheet, Thorpe coming back with 3 late goals to claim the win. Captain and top scorers Rebekah Lake on target for her 15th goal of the season. Laura Hedtke scoring for the 9th time with Alice Smith making her 1st start also celebrating a goal.
Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies on your title success. Champions!
One more game took place in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with 4th placed Gorleston Ladies travelling to 5th placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A big win for Gorleston takes them up to 3rd in the table ahead of Aylsham Ladies on goal difference. Mary Croft trebling her tally for the season finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match. A brace too for Sophie Gillett, with Bethany Turner also getting a goal in a 7-0 victory for the visitors.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
A reply for Beccles Town Ladies and Bulldogs Ladies in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate after the original tie was abandoned after 76 minutes with Beccles leading 4-0 due to a serious injury. Rearranged for this weekend an away trip to Aylsham Ladies awaiting the winner. Beccles getting players back from injury after a long spell without a game Bulldogs Ladies short on numbers. Beccles running out convincing winners to reach the last 4 of the competition, three players on target for a brace, Rosie Cook, Megan Vincent and the first goals of the season for Elisha Maher. Darcie Keiley also scoring her 1st goal, with Emily Coe and Francesca Heaney getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The fixture list virtually wiped out in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday due to the weather. Only one game surviving and that thanks to a reversal of fixture with Thetford Town Ladies down to visit Freethorpe Ladies becoming the home side. 7th versus 8th in the table, Thetford beginning to find their feet in women’s football recording their 6th win of the season. Melissa Boulton hitting a brace on Sunday moves onto 15 goals this season for Thetford. Shannon Richardson scoring too has 7 for the season with Rebecca White getting a goal too in only her 2nd game for Thetford in a 4-1 win. Kiera Squires the goalscorer for Freethorpe.
Cambridge City Ladies extended their unbeaten run at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division to 16 games this Sunday to move 11 points clear. Were away at the weekend taking on Colney Heath Ladies for the 2nd successive week, a 2-0 victory at home in the League Cup quarter finals last time out. The weather conditions playing havoc as they would for everyone this weekend, Cambridge City on the attack chances created a goal disallowed took the lead in the 1st half went on to score 3 more to win the game 4-0 to clinch the 3 points, a brace for top scorer Erin Davies moves onto 22 for the season. Lauren Tomlinson also getting on the scoresheet along with Freya Standing scoring her first, first team goal in only her 2nd appearance.
Royston Town Ladies climb up into 2nd place in the ERWFL Premier Division ahead of Acle United Women, the Hertfordshire side enjoying a good season were at home on Sunday up against AFC Dunstable Ladies who travelled with just the 7 available, through a shortage of players and injuries. Damage limitation a tough ask against a Royston side with goalscorers all over the pitch. Sammy Tinsley top scoring in the match netting a hat-trick. Three players were on target for a brace, Angharad Chambers, Georgia Gannaway and top scorer Joanne Rutherford. Goals to for Samantha Edgar, Eva Ramsey and ex-Dunstable player Charlotte South in a 12-0 win. A tough season for Dunstable yet they remain positive, new signings and players returning from injury are already building for next season.
Another side struggling in the ERWFL Premier Division this season are, AFC Sudbury Ladies, bottom of the table they too are short on numbers, a trip down to Essex this Sunday to play Harlow Town Ladies, the promoted side tussling with Bedford Ladies for 6th spot in the table. Bethany Chambers new to the 1st team squad making just her 4th appearance this Sunday took her goals scored to 8 as she was on target for a double hat-trick. Poppy Binding, Harlow’s top scorer moved onto 15 for the season with a brace at the weekend. A brace too for Olivia Steele, with Rubie Smith also finding the back of the net for a goal. The final score 12-1 to Harlow, Tegan Burling also scoring her 1st of the season for Harlow.
Wymondham Town Ladies were at home to Bedford Ladies. The Norfolk side newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division consolidating 4th position just 2 points behind 2nd placed Royston. Got off to a good start on Sunday opening the scoring in the 9th minute Kayleigh Holloway shooting from outside the box. A minute later Wymondham were 2-0 ahead, Bethany Fretwell scoring from a Mollie O’Callaghan free-kick. Top scorer Laura Nicholls making it 3-0 inside the opening 20 minutes. Bedford reducing the deficit to 3-1 before half-time. Wymondham restored their 3 goal cushion with 15 minutes left to play, Nicholls cross put in at the far post by Holloway for her 2nd of the game. Wymondham winning 4-1.
Two goals for Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway
Behind the chasing pack lay Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in 5th another postponement this weekend sees them have up to 5 games on the sides above them, a busy run in to come.
ERWFL Division One
ERWFL Division One saw 4 of the scheduled 6 league games this Sunday fall foul of the weather. 2nd placed Bowers & Pitsea Ladies were on the road on Sunday off to Wodson Park to play Hertford Town Ladies. Have been their when it’s windy and know how tough playing condition can be. Hertford enjoying a revival in recent game a 4 game unbeaten run that included a credible 0-0 draw away to Bowers & Pitsea. Now the side met in the reverse fixture with Bowers & Pitsea looking to keep the pressure on leaders St Ives Town Ladies. Hertford taking the lead inside the opening 2 minutes with the ball squirming under the keeper after a slip. Bowers & Pitsea soon back on level terms Megan Harley with a 30 yard strike finding the bottom corner in the 6th minute. The visitors with an opportunity to take the lead with a minute left on the clock 2nd half awarded a penalty the effort saved. The 2nd half remaining goalless the sides sharing the points once again drawing 1-1.
Recent results going against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies they have slipped down the Division One table, laying 9th going into Sunday’s home clash with Lawford Ladies a positive result would see them back into the top half of the table. The weather conditions not helping Hoddesdon starting slow the sides were level at 1-1 at half-time, Daisy Canny on target for Lawford, Rosy Wodhams scoring late in the half for Hoddesdon. The hosts getting the better of the 2nd half Kristina O’Connell putting them into the lead in the 51st minute, Hoddesdon were quickly 3-1 ahead with Leah Dunnage scoring for the 1st time this season. Grace Leslie securing the 3 points for Hoddesdon with a goal in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 4-1.
