Early days in the Norfolk season beginning the 2nd weekend a handful of games played in Division One, a good start to the campaign for Thorpe United Ladies though as they make it 2 wins from 2 to start the season to go top of the fledgling table. A 2-1 home win over last season’s Champions, Bungay Town Ladies on opening weekend was another 2-1 success on the road this time around against Gorleston FC Ladies who themselves had started the season with a 2-0 away to Sprowston Ladies. Goalless in the first half at Emerald Park, goals from Rebekah Lake and Aneliese Smith the difference for Thorpe United as they clinched a 2nd successive win, Mary Croft on target for Gorleston.
Beccles Town Ladies had started their life in Division One with a 4-2 loss away to a reformed Aylsham Ladies on the opening weekend. Were at home this Sunday taking on Wymondham Town Ladies beginning their season. Beccles coming out on top by the odd goal in five the sides drawing 1-1 at the break Beccles going on to claim their first 3 point haul with a 3-2 victory. The goals scored by Francesca Heaney along with a brace for Lucy Robbens.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Another high scoring weekend in Norfolk Women’s Division Two as sides begin to find there feet in the league. 3 sides maintaining a 100% winning start to the season. Bure Valley Wildcats starting with a massive 17-0 win last Sunday against newcomers Bulldogs Ladies were again taking on Thetford opposition with a trip to Thetford Town Ladies who themselves had begun the season with victory. A 2-0 advantage for Bure Valley at the break, Thetford suffering from a couple of injuries 2nd half as Bure Valley went on to take full control of the game winning 8-1, had 4 players each claiming a brace Kiera Brown, Charlie Cooper, Juliette Kelly and Carrie Last. Chloe Bentick getting the consolation goal for Thetford Town.
A 4-0 win over Tavern Ladies at home for Fakenham Town Ladies on the opening weekend of the season, were on the road for the 1st trip of the season this Sunday up against Bulldogs Ladies. An eventful game having been beaten 17-0 in their opening fixture Bulldogs bounced back well taking a 3-1 lead in the match before Fakenham mounted a comeback and went on to win the game 8-4. Two penalties in the match. Emma Johnson netting a hat-trick for Bulldogs Ladies, so too did Fanny Danskanen for Fakenham with Sam King scoring twice, Sian Sands the other goalscorer plus and own goal.
Long Stratton Women also starting their season with 2 wins from 2 are 3rd in the Division Two table, a goal feast away to Gorleston Rangers Ladies on the opening weekend seeing Long Stratton win 9-5. Were at home this Sunday entertaining new side Hockering Ladies as they got their season underway. Long Stratton getting the result courtesy of a brace from Samantha Walker along with a goal each for Emily Watts and Beth Stratton. 4-0 the final score.
Tavern Ladies turned thing’s around this Sunday to record their first win of the season at home having lost away in their opening fixture 4-0 against Fakenham Town Ladies. Taking on Freethorpe Ladies who had earned a point in their opening fixture. Tavern too strong for their opponents this Sunday, captain Sophie Fuller scoring 4 goals in the game their were also strikes from Katie Hart-Copsey, Alanta Griffith and Lucy Kean as the Dereham side ran out 7-0 winners
Tavern Ladies captain, Sophie Fuller
Taverham Women began life in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with a goalless draw away to Freethorpe Ladies on the opening weekend. Were on home turf for the first time this Sunday hosting Gorleston Rangers Ladies. A comfortable first half saw Taverham into a 4-0 lead went on to double that score 2nd half to win match 8-1. Abbie Walker top scoring for Taverham opening her account with 5 goals. Rebecca Sutton beginning with a brace with Maya Lawlor also scoring. Lauren Dennis with the goal for Gorleston Rangers.
New leaders in the ERWFL Premier Division after this weekends results, Cambridge City Ladies go top making it 3 wins from 3 in the league to start the season. Up against Bedford Ladies who themselves were unbeaten at the start of the season with a win and 3 draws. A strong 1st half from Cambridge City seeing the lead 3-0 at the break, Laura Mills getting on the end of the ball to turn it over the line was quickly 2-0 with Bella Simmons scoring, further chances followed before Sofia Castiglione scored to make it 3-0. Bedford were far from out of the game however and 2 goals for Setor Acolatse pulled it back to 3-2 for the visitors, the woodwork saving Cambridge City at the end as they dug deep for the 3 points.
Acle United Women were the previous leaders of the Premier Division drop to 2nd after suffering their first loss of the season away to Royston Town Ladies. Paige Rolfe making her 100th appearance for Royston. The dead lock broken on the half hour Sammy Tinsley striking from the edge of the box to give Royston the lead. A 1-0 advantage at half-time. Acle got the scores back to 1-1 just before the hour summer signing Grace Parker netting from a free-kick. Royston coming back to retake the lead in the final 15 minutes one of their summer signings Charlotte South from AFC Dunstable Ladies making it 2-1 and with Acle chasing a 2nd equaliser Royston scored a 3rd with South on target once again 2 wins from 2 for Royston to start their league campaign.
Harlow Town Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division their 4th promotion in a row are up to 3rd after home success over Colney Heath Ladies on Sunday. And it was to The Harlow Arena Women’s Football East travelled on Sunday to watch. An unbeaten start to the season for Colney Heath Ladies as they begin their 2nd season in the Premier Division. Got off to the better start the ball played up to Rianne Townsend-Brown at the top of the area, showed her strength against the Harlow defence to muscle her way in on goal and send the ball home to put Colney Heath 1-0 up. Harlow had chances to equalise, Lily Bruno seeing Amy Mullett making a good save in goal for Colney Heath low to her left. The equaliser coming midway through the first half Colney Heath failing to deal with a free-kick put into the area Abbey Dell getting onto the ball and sending it home. 1-1 the score at half-time.
A totally different story 2nd half as Harlow came out the stronger, injuries affecting Colney Heath’s defence, Harlow nevertheless started well. Tayla Handscombe linking with Bruno as she attacks do the left into the box and smashes the shot in to put Harlow 2-1 up. It quickly becomes 3-1 from a corner the ball cleared only as far as Kirsty Woodacre the central defender 20 yards out moves out to the right a gap opening up inside the area she takes the opportunity to strike her shot finding the bottom corner to make it 3-1. Harlow are dominant keep coming forwards get a 4th goal with a good attacking move the ball laid into Kaydee King moving across the top of the area the Harlow captain scoring Harlow winning 4-1. A few bruises to show for their efforts Abbey Dell coming off worse in a collision with Colney Heath’s Sophie Joseph, a blow to the noggin, out for the count momentarily, Joseph the first to her aid she is back with us a moment later but I caught the fall, whether Dell remembers it or not is another but she was up and walking thankfully soon after.
Out for the count, Abbey Dell is floored after coming together with Sophie Joseph
A 2nd win of the season for Wymondham Town Ladies sees them up to 4th in the Premier Division following promotion as Division One North Champions last season. Were at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies on Sunday who travelled with the bare 11. It was Sudbury who took the lead in the match Ceri Harris with the strike to make it 1-0. Wymondham coming back to win the game 2-1, Mollie O’Callaghan with the equaliser in the 63rd minute. Alice Ladbrooke netting the winning goal to secure the win.
A good result at home for Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday recording their 2nd win of the season, the Essex side hosting AFC Dunstable Ladies. Goals from Danielle Butler and a brace for Georgia Holdaway securing the 3 points with a 3-0 win.
A first win of the season in the ERWFL Premier Division for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies since moving across from the EMWFL. Building on their 1st point of the season last weekend travelled south to play bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. Cassie Steward scoring a brace their were goals to for Paige Jones, Emma Pollard and Katie Steward as Northern Star wrapped up a 5-0 win.
ERWFL Division One
New arrivals to the ERWFL, Newmarket Town Ladies are beginning to find their feet in the league, unbeaten in two they made it 3 at home with a good win over the league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves on Sunday ending their 100% record in the process. A result that certainly raises the eyebrows Stevenage have proved hard to beat over the last 18 months or so. Goals from Laura Bailey, Sarah O’Rourke, Antonia Smith, Brooke Wickens and Bethany Woodfield returning from injury seeing Newmarket win the game 5-0 lifting them up to 5th in the Division One table.
Hutton Ladies climb into 2nd spot in ERWFL Division One with a comfortable away victory over Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. New signing Victoria Kinsman in fine goal scoring form at the start of the season claiming a hat-trick against Hertford moved her into double figures already! Rosi Webb another new signing also getting on the scoresheet her 4th off the season. Hutton winning 4-0.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies left it late to claim a share of the points on the road at the weekend, were taking on Hatfield Peverel Ladies who themselves new to the ERWFL finally claimed their 1st point at this level on Sunday. Christa Osman with the goal for Hatfield to give them the lead. Hoddesdon had chances but it wasn’t until the final 5 minutes that they found the equaliser, Kristina O’Connell netting her 5th goal of the season on 85 minutes to make it 1-1.
St Ives Town Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL remain unbeaten at the start of the season holding on for a point away to fellow Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Tierney Coulson and Hannah Seymour-Shove saw St Ives Town into a 2-0 lead at half-time. Histon were right back into the game early in the 2nd half Kaya Haq scoring just a minute into the restart with Sophie Lanham scoring straight from a corner 3 minutes later for her first goal of the season. St Ives Town ending with 10 after Coulson was red carded dug deep to get the point.
Games featuring King’s Lynn Town this season are going to be entertaining if not good for the managers health as for the 2nd time in just 4 matches they run out 5-3 winners! At home on the opening day of the season against Newmarket, 2 losses followed before they got back to winning ways away to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies this Sunday. The victory secured in the 2nd half. Jade Horne with a double along with a goal for Daisy Starsmoore both getting off the mark for the season for Ipswich Wanderers. Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse netted a hat-trick for King’s Lynn with fellow strikers Tiffany Forshaw and Oksana Imanalijeva also claiming a goal each.
New leaders at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division after this weekends results. Coventry United Ladies coming out on top in the clash between the top two and only unbeaten sides in the league on Sunday. A brilliant start to the season for Chichester City Ladies 4 wins out of 4 including a 2-1 home success against local rivals Portsmouth FC Women in midweek were back at home this Sunday hosting Coventry United Ladies who themselves looking to defend an unbeaten start to their league campaign 3 successive wins after a goalless draw on the opening day.
Coventry coming into their top of the table clash with a 4-0 home win over early pacesetters Loughborough Foxes Women. Coventry opening the scoring through a Jade Brook strike in the 8th minute, Chichester responded straight away to get back on level terms Cherelle Khassel making it 1-1. Coventry edging the win in the 2nd half Brook netting again in what would prove to be the winning goal. The 2-1 result taking Coventry top, Chichester City tasting defeat for the 1st time this season.
Chichester City drop to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table after the weekends results as Watford FC Ladies go 2nd on the back of 4 straight wins in all competitions. Needed a late winner to edge out QPR in midweek, 2-1 the final score. And it was a late show again to secure the 3 points again on Sunday away to Portsmouth FC Women. The hosts taking the lead in the 16th minute, Daisy McLachlan smashing the ball home. Katie O’Leary equalising for Watford just 5 minutes later the sides were all square at the break.
With 20 minutes left to play Portsmouth got themselves back into the lead Hannah Geer making it 2-1. Watford responded once again bringing on Anaisa Harney the substitute heading in visitors 2nd equaliser for her first goal for the club on 79 minutes, then Harney struck again to put Watford into the lead with 5 minutes left, Helen Ward scoring late on in midweek finding the back of the net in the 89th minute to secure the 3 points for Watford winning 4-2. 3 straight losses in the league now for Portsmouth after winning their opening 2 fixtures, Shannon Albuery leaving to join FAWSL side Yeovil Town Ladies.
Another side showing great form are Cardiff City Ladies moving up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division with a 4th straight win in all competitions. Were hosting Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday, the visitors holding a 1-0 advantage at the break with Kate Lowder the player on target with the goal on 31 minutes. A strong finish to the game from Cardiff to come back and win, closing in on the final quarter hour Grace Horrell scored to level the scores, soon after Cardiff were in the lead a corner scramble resulting in an own goal. Kelly Issac making sure of the win getting on the scoresheet in the 88th minute. Loughborough hitting the post from a penalty kick in stoppage time. 3-1 Cardiff.
Goals galore at Elberton Villa FC between Plymouth Argyle Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies. A much needed point earned last Sunday, Basildon travelling down to the South West having lost at home to Gillingham in midweek. Plymouth not in action in midweek. Goals from Helen Bleazard and Kayley Lane seeing Plymouth leading 2-0 at half-time. The lead further extended in the 2nd half with Amber Pollock making it 3-0 on 64 minutes. Bleazard with her 2nd of the game scoring to make it 4-0 on 68. Basildon weren’t out of it though getting it back to 4-2 before conceding a penalty, captain Katie Middleton sending the ball past the keeper to make it 5-2. Time for Basildon to get a 3rd goal but they went home empty handed the 5-3 win taking Plymouth up to 5th in the table. A goal for Raquel Murray along with a double for Patricia Gomez the goalscorers for Basildon.
A mixed set of results for Oxford United Women, back to back losses in the league coming into this Sunday’s game including a 3-1 home loss to Milton Keynes Dons on Tuesday. Away to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, Oxford recorded their biggest win of the season so far. Ellie Noble putting the visiting side 1-0 up on 23 minutes, Sophie Baker striking right on the stroke of half-time to give Oxford a 2-0 advantage. 3 more goals coming in the last 15 minutes Florence Fyfe a 2nd half substitute scoring to make it 3-0 on 77 minutes. Lauren Haynes was on target 4 minutes later to break up the 4th goal with Madelene Robertson also introduced in the 2nd half getting Oxford’s 5th goal in stoppage time.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies finally got off the mark in the Southern Premier Division recording their 1st win at this level in midweek away to Oxford United Women. On the road again this Sunday taking on bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Not much in it 1st half Kerry Newman getting a goal just past the half hour to put Milton Keynes Dons into the lead. Going down to a late winner in midweek, QPR scored themselves late on this time to rescue a point their 1st of the season, Rochelle Shakes with her 1st goal for the club.
FAWNL South East Division One
The promoted sides keeping on winning in FAWNL South East Division One, 5 wins out of 5 for both Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies. Crawley Wasps out in front having scored 24 now in their 5 games a 5-2 win in midweek away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Crawley Wasps were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday who themselves earned a point in midweek drawing 1-1 at The Abbey Stadium with Cambridge United WFC. The goals continuing for Crawley Wasps at the weekend 4 in the first half from Sian Heather, Kemina Webber, Faye Rabson and Megan Stow to put the visitors 4-1 up at half-time. Stow struck her 2nd of the game early in the 2nd half with Suzy Davies and Naomi Cole both scoring in the final 15 minutes to secure a 7-2 win for Crawley Wasps. Nicole Emmings with both goals for Stevenage.
A much closer result at home for Billericay Town Ladies as the took on bottom side Luton Town Ladies still in search of their first points of the season. Lucy Jones and Samantha Pittuck with the goals for Billericay Town in a 2-1 with Dionne Manning finding the back of the net for Luton who came close to earning a point hitting the woodwork 3 times, a number of young players stepping up into their 1st team.
A complete turn around for Actonians Ladies 3 defeats to start the season in all competitions, they have now made it 3 wins from their last 3 in the league to climb up to 3rd in the South East Division One table. Fortune in front of goal turned around too having conceded 12 in their 1st 3 matches have since scored 13 in 3 whilst conceding just twice a 5-0 win away to Denham in midweek. This Sunday were at home hosting Norwich City Ladies who themselves were on a high having secured their 1st win of the season against all sides their East Anglian derby rivals Ipswich Town Women. Norwich scoring twice in the 1st half Natasha Snelling and captain Kate Parsons with the goals Parsons 1st since her lengthy lay off from injury. Actonians were in front at the break however scoring 3 times in the 1st half. 3-2 up the hosts had the better of the 2nd half adding a further two goals to record a 5-2 win. Alessandra Barreca netting a hat-trick moving her onto 8 goals already this season with Jennifer Laidlaw and Sara Lopez Ezzahiri both getting their 1st goals of the season.
Enfield Town Ladies are up to 4th in the South East Division One table coming out on top by the odd goal in 5 in the A10 derby between themselves and Cambridge United WFC. Is a long established rivalry between these two sides meaning form goes out the window whenever they meet. A narrow lead for Enfield at half-time with a late goal for Isabella Agus. Molly Peters set up by Agus scoring to make it 2-0 to Enfield, a chance to go 3-0 ahead from the penalty spot, Savannah Smith making the save for Cambridge off Nuala McKevitt. A free kick up the other end just outside the box in a dangerous position Amber Cantwell finding the back of the goal to make it 2-1. Cantwell striking from distance again to bring the scores level at 2-2. Enfield finding the winning goal with 7 minutes left on the clock Claire Ford from a corner heading in at the near post to seal a 3-2 win.
The points shared in the final two matches to bring you from South East Division One. Both losing in midweek Ipswich Town Women made the trip to Carshalton Athletic FC to play AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. Caroline Bisson with the shot scoring to put Wimbledon into the lead midway through the 2nd half, Ipswich responding well to the setback levelling the score just 4 minutes later the ball in the back of the net of a Wimbledon body from a Natalie Richardson free-kick. 1-1 at the break chances for both sides 2nd half but no more goals 1-1 it remained.
1-1 too between Denham United Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday but the visitors left it late to take home a point from the game after Rachel Keightley had given Denham the lead on 53 minutes. Rebecca Hirst introduced to the action from the bench on 80 minutes she netting her 1st goal of the season to earn 5th placed Leyton Orient a point.
A trip down to Essex this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, newly promoted Harlow Town Ladies hosting Colney Heath Ladies.
A clash between the sides currently 4th and 5th in the table both with 4 points each, still very early days in the league however with several of the ERWFL Premier Division sides involved in the early qualifying rounds of the FA Women’s Cup.
A 4th successive promotion for Harlow Town Ladies having risen through the Essex County leagues before clinching runners-up spot in ERWFL Division One South last season. A win, draw and loss from their opening 3 league matches in the Premier Division. Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team for Harlow’s earlier successes has moved on to manage Norwich City Ladies in the FAWNL. A place in the FAWNL up for grabs for whoever wins ERWFL Premier Division title themselves. Dean Perrett in charge of the 1st team at Harlow now as the club look to continue to progress. A 1st team and Reserves side this season with ambition to create a girls section to establish Harlow as a force in the women’s game.
Colney Heath Ladies begin their 2nd season in the ERWFL Premier Division having finished runners-up in Division One to earn promotion. Was a difficult first campaign playing at that level, teams dropping out of the league which finished with 9 didn’t help their cause, ended bottom without a recorded win. The squad stretched last season too have bolstered numbers for this season and added experience too, a much better start undefeated in their 4 matches played including a win and a draw in the Premier Division.
The Harlow Arena the venue for today’s game a superb facility that has hosted FAWSL 2 football in the past. An artificial playing surface a good sized pitch, overlooked by a large main stand along one side offering plenty of seating housing the changing rooms and clubhouse, bar and refreshments available. A smaller terraced stand opposite room to expand too. A pleasant sunny afternoon a stiff breeze blowing across the open ends of the ground.
Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Courtney Miller, Megan Sende, Kirsty Woodacre, Nicole Learner, Chloe Bassett, Kaydee King (C), Abbey Dell, Poppy Binding & Lily Bruno. Subs – Tayla Handscombe, Rubie Smith, Liv Steele, Tegan Burling & Maisie Ryan.
Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Amy Mullett (C), Kelly Hancock, Rebecca Fhalora, Annie Hickey, Lucy Hancock, Sophie Gardiner, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver, Sophie Joseph, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Kelly Glynn, Adrienne Milton & Sarah Brennan.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway wearing red and white horizontal striped shirts with red shorts and socks with opponents Colney Heath lining up in blue shirts and shorts with white socks. The ball toing and froing in the middle of the park in the early stages Harlow attempting the 1st attack as captain Kaydee King wins possession inside the Colney Heath half and looks to sent the ball through for Abbey Dell on the left, a race for the ball across comes Kelly Hancock to slide in tackling Dell to put the ball out for a throw.
The hosts with a chance to take the lead as the ball is pressed high up the pitch Dell has it on the left in towards Lily Bruno positioned at the top of the Colney Heath box left of the D plays it back to Poppy Binding central and turns into the area Binding returning the ball to Dell who has come infield plays the ball through to Bruno the striker is free having gotten herself across to the far post the Colney Heath defence static don’t react as Bruno shoots firing a shot back across goal wide of goalkeeper Amy Mullett but so too the post.
Colney Heath get the ball forwards rolled into Sheree Oliver central she puts the pass on for Christina Freestone ahead of her play switched to Rebecca Fhalora getting forwards on the left strikes the ball from outside the box her low effort running wide across the Harlow goal. The visitors make ground through the middle the ball played out to Rianne Townsend-Brown drifting right her cross blocked at close range by Chloe Bassett closing her down, a goal-kick the result.
Colney Heath Ladies, Rebecca Fhalora
The referee spotting a shirt pull on Oliver, Colney Heath with a free-kick on the right 25 yards out from goal. The ball played up into the box, King with a firm header on the ball clears for Harlow. Nicole Learner bringing the ball on done the right for Harlow, Fhalora stepping in to make the tackle, the visitors build another attack moving the ball well, Moreton coming for the ball has options left and right aswell as Townsend-Brown ready to break in behind. Courtney Miller coming inside to cut out Moreton’s through ball.
Charlene Moreton with Harlow Town Ladies, Nicole Learner
Harlow bring the ball forwards with pace King linking up with Learner out to Farrell on the right wing a cross fired in low towards the near post Bruno arriving attempts to flick the ball on towards goal, instead it lands in the side netting. Binding lines up a strike from distance is charged down by Kelly Hancock, the rebound gathered by Binding she isn’t deterred has another go, Annie Hickey throwing out a leg to put in the block this time for Colney Heath. The game is a little physical but this is mainly down to which the pace the ball is being moved around Dell enjoying a good contest with her opposite number as she attacks on the left.
GOAL! 12 minutes played and the visitors get themselves into the lead, Sophie Joseph on the ball central has Moreton in close attendance the ball into her put up towards the edge of the area, Townsend-Brown hustling the Harlow defence who don’t deal with the danger the Colney Heath striker strong gets hold of the ball bursting into the box and smashes a low shot across goal into the bottom corner 0-1.
Harlow with a real chance to equalise straight away attacking up the other end the ball on the left fired inside into Learner outside the box she takes in on across the D is taken down as she goes to strike the ball, looked like it was inside the box but I’m on halfway the decision a free-kick a foot outside, a dangerous position, King over the ball lines up a strike, hitting the ball well it is always rising as it flies a half yard over the crossbar.
An open game both sides on the attack as soon as they have possession, Colney Heath have Oliver on the ball wide right squares the ball inside to Townsend-Brown, Kirsty Woodacre close in tackles to win the ball back for Harlow, counter attacking, Dell is given the ball on the left, tries to put the diagonal ball through towards Learner breaking forwards through the middle, can’t quite get there. The ball won in defence Colney Heath come forwards Oliver on the ball right plays it to Townsend-Brown central with Moreton ahead of her making a run into the area right of goal she receives the ball shoots, Charlie Orwell covering her near post is able to gather the ball for Harlow.
Sheree Oliver on the ball for Colney Heath Ladies
Dell wins Harlow a corner on the left, a good delivery into the centre of the box the ball headed goalwards, a second Harlow header from close in the touch taking the ball over the bar. Amy Mullett is called into action making a fantastic save diving low to her left to deny Bruno as she is played through on goal as Harlow attack down the right Bassett on the ball, Bruno right off goal aiming for the bottom corner sees her shot saved. From the resulting corner, the ball played into the box, Dell can’t dig the ball out of her feet before Coley Heath close her down.
Decisions going against Harlow frustration visible, a free-kick awarded left side 25 yards out, Moreton on the ball her strike wide of the far post. Hickey in to win the ball for Colney Heath the defender with a great ball realises Oliver who has been finding space on the right coming inside with the ball evades a couple of tackles on the top of the area before taking the ball inside, closing in on the near post she pulls the trigger but so close in Orwell has closed the door makes the blocking save.
Pressing the ball high up the pitch Harlow catch the Colney heath defence lingering on the ball Dell taking the ball wide out on the left fires a cross low and hard into the area, Bruno behind the ball near post top of the six yard box controls it enough to play back to Binding running in to the box central shifts the ball as it comes into her and lets fly with a driven shot angling in towards goal, Mullett gets down quickly to her left to once more push the ball away behind to safety.
GOAL! Harlow equalise midway through the 1st half the goal coming from a free-kick deep in the right players in the box as the ball is played up long into the area, dropping amongst bodies Colney Heath don’t deal with it Dell closest pouncing to smash the ball into the back of the net 1-1.
Moments later Harlow come close to taking the lead, winning the ball back in the middle King with Bassett, the pass forwards finds Bruno left of the D, time to line up a shot, drags the attempt narrowly wide of the near post. Woodacre steps in to put the ball behind for a corner as Townsend-Brown tries to run onto a ball put into her from the left. Harlow try to break from the corner, Sophie Gardiner winning the ball back for Colney Heath. On another day Bruno would have a hat-trick in the bag by now as she shoots from 20 yards out the ball caught by Mullett before the striker sends another shot wide across goal from a similar position.
Chloe Bassett with the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
A change for Harlow, Learner the player coming off, on in her place is Rubie Smith. The home side counter Bassett playing a one two with Bruno as she carries the ball forwards on the right going on to the byline sends a cross in towards the near post Hickey cutting the ball out concedes the corner. Moreton is brought down by Dell, a free-kick wide right for Colney Heath, Megan Sende defending for Harlow as Gardiner plays the ball into the box.
Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton
Another free-kick in a similar position, Dell with another decision against her the Harlow bench not happy to, make a change Dell withdrawn, with Tayla Handscombe coming on. Gardiner to play the ball long into the area again for Conley Heath to attack going long falls to Townsend-Brown wide of the far post smashes a shot in across the face of goal strikes the far post back into play straight a Freestone little time to adjust her body takes on the 1st time strike screws the attempt away from goal.
Annie Hickey sliding in to tackle for Colney Heath
Colney Heath attack late in the first half, Sende intercepting the ball, Katie Farrell too doing well at the back as Moreton and Oliver try their luck on the right. Gardiner with a long pass forwards finds the ever willing Oliver running clear on the right down the line her squared cross into the middle on the area behind Townsend-Brown, Moreton coming in behind her connects sees her shot pulled wide. Kelly Hancock defending well for Colney Heath as Harlow mount a late attack, Binding looking to put the ball on for Bruno.
Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 1-1 Colney Heath Ladies
All square at the break, 1-1 between the two sides. Chances to go further ahead for both Mullett with two vital saves for Colney Heath, whilst their attackers movements has caused the Harlow defence issues at the other end. Harlow have attacked well occasionally let down by decision making in the final 3rd. An open and lively game physical without being malicious an entertaining watch.
A blow for Colney Heath at the start of the 2nd half, forced into a change Hickey having taken a knock to the head feeling unwell rightly comes off, Kelly Glynn entering the game. Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway. The home side winning an early free-kick inside their opponents half the ball played forwards won by Freestone. A quiet start to the 2nd half Harlow pushing players onto the Colney Heath defence to apply more pressure to the ball, Mullett dealing well with an awkward situation inside her six yard box as the ball is put into her, Binding and Bruno both closing the keeper down put behind a goalkick given.
King gets hold of the ball in the middle for Harlow bringing it forwards with purpose aims to lay it out to Handscombe attacking left, she can’t quite take the ball on into her stride.
GOAL! Moments later though Handscombe does get hold of the ball inside the Colney heath box to put the hosts into an early lead in the 2nd half. The ball played forwards into Handscombe left she comes inside just outside the box Bruno in close support the pass into the striker as Handscombe runs on past her the ball given back to her closing in on goal she gets her head over the ball and strikes an arrowing shot home before Mullett can move 2-1.
Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe
A strong start to the 2nd half from Harlow, Binding sweeping the ball out to Bassett on the right she is tackled by Fhalora. Harlow come on again Smith with ball 30 yards out playing it into Bruno top of the area one touch and turns to shoot, Mullett making the save low to her right to push the ball away for a corner. Right side, Harlow bring on Liv Steele before it is taken.
GOAL! Harlow double their lead from the corner kick the ball played into the area Colney heath struggle to get it away as it drops into the danger area deflected back out to Woodacre outside the area the central defender brings the ball away the the right the space opens up in front of her a sight on goal she takes the opportunity from 20 yards out hits the ball well it flies in across the goal to nestle in the bottom corner 3-1.
11 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Harlow have gotten themselves into a strong position, Colney Heath make a 2nd change Gardiner coming off, Adrienne Milton coming on going into an attacking role. Smith on a free-kick on halfway for Harlow the ball up towards the edge of the area cleared by Lucy Hancock. Binding nipping in to win the ball carries on her run into the box strikes the ball the swerving shot angling back safely into the gloves of Mullett.
Poppy Binding with Sophie Joseph
Another injury blow in defence for Colney Heath, Fhalora down has to come off after lengthy treatment Sarah Brennan coming on for the visitors. Struggling to get anything going in attack Colney Heath have Townsend-Brown running with the ball on the left outpacing her marker cuts the ball back across the top of the area, spinning Milton back to goal tries to help it on through to Oliver on the right just can’t quite find her. Maisie Ryan comes on for Harlow replacing Binding.
Harlow are causing all sorts of problems for Colney Heath now is very nearly an own goal from a long free-kick launched into the area the ball headed narrowly wide of the post. King is coming forwards with the ball more in the 2nd half taking it away to the left cuts back to shoot from 20 yards out putting the strike straight at Mullett. Lucy Hancock sliding in to defend for Colney Heath as Harlow attack on the left. Glynn defends at the near post cutting out a cross from the byline as Handscombe gets away on the right for Harlow.
Lily Bruno getting her head on the ball for Harlow Town Ladies
Glynn in again on the edge of the box to charge down Steele as she lines up a shot from the edge of the area. Colney Heath have there backs to the wall can’t get the ball forwards as Harlow press the ball high up the pitch forwards passes not coming off like they were in the 1st half. Kelly Hancock gets back into the box to slide in a tackle Steele as she tries to work space for a shot left of goal as King sends her through. Tegan Burling comes on for Harlow replacing Bassett.
GOAL! Harlow extend there lead the ball put down the line on the right from a set-piece after a pause in play knocked inside by Handscombe to Steele 20 yards out on for King who takes it further infield across the D looking for a shot hits a low left foot strike in towards goal runs away in celebration as it lands in the back of the net a well worked goal 4-1. King is substituted then with Dell coming back on.
Harlow have their tails up want more goals are dominant coming forwards once again Bassett with the ball right side lines up a shot from distance drags the shot wide across goal. Joseph comes forwards for Colney Heath moving wide right the ball rolled into her by Oliver she runs on down the wing before squaring a low cross into the area Townsend-Brown closing in on the penalty spot, attacking the cross doesn’t get a convincing touch as Orwell closing her down makes things difficult. Counter attacking the ball played on for Steele she has Bruno ahead of her ready to race onto the ball put into the box, Steele obliges, Mullett reads it well racing out to slide in and stop the ball for Bruno can let fly.
Dell is knocked out as she comes together in an accidental collision with Joseph as the Conley Heath midfielder tries to bring the ball out from the back catching Del on the side of her noggin, goes down like a sack of spuds. Play stops everyone knows Dell is out if it flat on the ground, but thankfully she comes round quickly but holding her head she’s taken straight off Binding coming back on.
Chances rare for Colney Heath 2nd half, can’t get Oliver into the game like they did 1st half Townsend-Brown on the left powers forwards is tackled by Miller, the ball deflected to Milton she looks to tee up Freestone but her strike from distance is off the mark. Into injury time Harlow attack wide left Burling furthest forwards, Mullett comes a long way to slide into win the ball does but Burling’s momentum sees the pair collide. The injury brings an end to the game the final whistle blowing Harlow winning 4-1. Burling back on her feet after receiving treatment.
Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Colney Heath Ladies
A strong 2nd half performance from Harlow Town Ladies to secure the win scoring 3 goals after seeing chances going begging in the 1st half. Pressing the ball higher up the pitch, Colney Heath struggled to get going in the 2nd period after a good 1st half performance, forced into changes after injury during the game. Harlow were dominant in the 2nd half deserving the win.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, it’s a tough one this Sunday a close call with 3 players in the running all from Harlow in the finish, Poppy Binding and Chloe Bassett doing well in midfield the captain edges them out however with a solid performance strong on the ball willing to get forwards and set up attacks, rounding it all of with a goal, Kaydee King is today’s Player of the Match.
Both sides are in action in the FA Women’s Cup next Sunday tough trips for both against FAWNL South East Division One opposition, Cambridge United WFC await Harlow whilst Colney Heath travel to Billericay Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying.
An enjoyable afternoon at The Harlow Arena it’s good to see both sides again after missing out last season. Thanks as always for helping me out with the team details and Harlow Town for the hospitality.
Midweek action under the floodlights this Wednesday with a trip to The Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Stevenage Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Cambridge United WFC missing out on the opportunity to play at The Abbey Stadium late last season get an early chance this time round to showcase their talents under the floodlights at the League Two ground. Women’s sides getting more opportunities to play at their respective men’s clubs than ever before.
4 games into the season and Cambridge United WFC have 4 points from 3 league games played, started the season well with a draw and a win away from home a good result in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup followed before they suffered their 1st loss of the season at the weekend going down to a stoppage time winner. The two promoted sides, Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies getting off to a flyer winning all of their games, Cambridge are amongst a cluster of sides below on 4 points looking to catch them.
Stevenage Ladies come in to tonight’s game at The Abbey Stadium on the back of 3 straight defeats in all competitions having won their opening match of the season. Like Cambridge are bedding in a few new signings with Mark Dicker taking up the reins as 1st team manager. As great an opportunity this is for Cambridge, their opponents should relish the chance too.
As you’d expect from a League club ground at the start of the season the pitch is immaculate, no excuses about bobbles tonight. Is a wide pitch so their will be plenty of space to exploit. The mainstand open, hot food and drink available with the Dion Dublin Bar also open. A pleasant evening dry and calm perfect weather for football.
Cambridge United starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Amy Howlett, Kelly Bingham, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Vicky Neal & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Liz Pamplin, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Faith Hewitt, Mollie Coupar & Kirsten Burt.
It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the match underway kicking off 1st half, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Stevenage lining up opposite wearing white shirt with red vertical striping along with red shirts and socks. A couple of strong challenges put in early on from Stevenage as Cambridge look to work the ball forwards, its as the visitors get hold of the ball that Cambridge win it back in the middle of the park Amy Howlett bringing it on central aims to release Becky Shephard making an attacking run on the left cutting inside towards the edge of the area Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis alert out to the edge of her area gathers the through ball before the Cambridge winger can latch onto it.
Play is turned around quickly by Stevenage defending on the left side the ball cleared up to Ashleigh Deacon in a central position she spots striker Nicole Emmings making a run into space on the right sending the ball on for her Emmings takes it on into the box shooting from the angle sends the ball racing low past the the diving keeper Savannah Smith but also wide of the far post. Deacon cutting inside from the right 25 yards out lines up a strike the ball charged down by Fran Gough in the Cambridge defence.
A good tempo to the match both sides relishing the opportunity Kelly Bingham winning the ball in midfield for the hosts lays it back to left back Carrie Bennett, she goes long with Shephard eager to race in behind for the left the bouncing ball too close to the keeper however Vandersluis positioned high catches the ball. No one spending any time on the ball often leads to defence turned into counter attack, Cambridge captain Kelley Blanchflower has a chance a central run into the box the ball driven into her path taking it left of goal looks to put the shot back across the keeper with the outside of her boot, Vandersluis drifting towards her near post can claim the ball.
Up the other end Smith comes out to block Emmings as she is played in behind by Deacon taking up a good central position as Stevenage attack. A set-piece for Stevenage wide on the left the ball delivered high towards those gathering at the top of the Cambridge area, it’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt defending for the hosts that headers the ball clear. Cambridge are looking to peel off the full-backs get in behind Vicky Neal up with Blanchflower the latter almost succeeds central only Vandersluis’ quick reactions coming to the edge of her box to slide in to stop the ball prevents a shot, colliding with Blanchflower the contact accidental.
A good spell from Cambridge, attacking Shephard left sends a pacy ball into the area that evades everyone, the ball retrieved on the right side players are drawn towards it as the driven ball on the diagonal is sent in towards goal running wide Shephard tries to throw herself at the ball with Vandersulis diving for it gets the ball past the keeper lands in the side netting wide. Smith back on her goal line is well placed to catch the ball as Shona Chitate digs a snap shot out of her feet from 20 yards out. Room for Deacon on the right bringing the ball on for Stevenage players breaking into the box her cross sent in low near post is defended by Cambridge out for a corner with Amy Makewell attacking it.
Cambridge break forwards Howlett central carrying it into the Stevenage half has Shepherd ahead of her cutting in behind from the left, Charlotte Ryan defending centrally for Stevenage gets in front of the Cambridge winger inside the area shielding the ball well allowing Vandersluis to gather safely. Neal’s turn to get in behind on the left holding up the ball sends the cross in long across the face of goal Blanchflower coming in far post the target, Stevenage captain Paige Logie does well to intercept and putting behind for a corner so close to her goal.
Neal once again moving to the right to receive the ball wide has Abi Davies breaking forwards inside her lays the ball into the speeding full backs path Davies shot from range charged down the ball rebounding away for a corner on the right. A good deliver in central under the bar Vandersluis doing well to glove the ball up and on towards the far post, Cambridge’s Gough leaping heads the ball back in towards goal blocked Stevenage defend the ball eventually behind for the goalkick.
Is a good contest both sides looking to attack quickly sees the attackers from both sides looking to exploit pockets of space. Dominique Godbeer sliding in to challenge Howlett outside the box left of goal as she looks to burst inside receive the return ball from Shephard on the left. Neal charges down Vandersluis as she attempts to kick the ball long from the top of the area, no control over where the rebound goes it’s deflected behind wide of goal. Bennett with a vital interception as Stevenage play the diagonal ball long from the left with Deacon away on the right.
Breaking Stevenage’s Kristi Burling on for Chitate the pass forwards into Emmings, tries the back heel to try and put strike partner Makewell in behind the Cambridge defence, Gough isn’t fooled turns and cuts the ball out. Shephard and Neal combine in attack Shephard coming forwards passing the ball inside to Neal 25 yards out continues her run past her Neal shifting the ball on into her path edge of the area central Shephard looks to place her shot past the advancing keeper places the ball wide of the goal beyond.
Howlett brought down as she tries to get forwards left side combine with Neal. A good position 25 yards out left of the D, Cantwell on the ball sends a rising ball in towards goal, off target however as Vandersulis coming across to the near post can watch in drop harmlessly wide. Emmings coming near post sees the ball into her low from Ellie Searle on the left, attempting to control and turn goalwards Gough gets the tackle in.
A throw in for Cambridge left as they come forwards the ball finding it’s way into Blanchflower controlling inside the box turns her marker making room for a shot plays the ball straight at the keeper. Burling and Searle working together left side a cross squared inside to Makewell 20 yards out her shot charged down by Burt. Stevenage pressing late on in the first half win a corner right side a good delivery in close to goal Smith gloving the ball away dropping far post little time to react volleys the ball up over the crossbar.
Attacks in the closing moments of the 1st 45 a free-kick played in from wide left for Stevenage Chitate stooping to header the ball right on the edge of the area sees her effort take a deflection wide. Howlett leaning back to strike the ball coming into her from 20 yards out as Cambridge attack across the face of the Stevenage area sees her effort swerve wide of target. A late break Blanchflower picking up the ball looks for options Shephard with a central run Blanchflower tries to play her in Logie doing well for Stevenage sliding in to intercept the ball.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
A good contest ends in stalemate at the break neither side finding a clinical edge both attacking with purpose with no one taking time on the ball a high tempo has seen passes rushed and quality through the middle at a premium defences doing well. The attackers all wanting to drift into space haven’t been able to combine where it matters inside the box. Will that change in the 2nd half?
2nd half huddles
Stevenage to get thing’s underway in the 2nd period. Cambridge get hold of the ball and coming forwards win themselves a corner on the left. A long delivery Stevenage can’t get the ball away as Howlett plays it back in towards Blanchflower comes in, Ryan defending for the visitors to prevent a shot on goal. A shirt pull spotted by the referee earns Abi Davies a card for Cambridge joining the Makewell in the book who was cautioned first half. The set-piece wide right driven in low towards the near post Emmings there can’t get a clean connection the chance gone.
Searle picks up the ball driving forwards attempts the diagonal pass out for Deacon on the right, Burt making the interception for Cambridge. Neal is a presence for Cambridge up front working hard to pull the Stevenage defence towards her, her persistence on the left bringing a corner kick. Cantwell to play the ball into the area, Burt coming towards the ball plays it back to the corner taker Cantwell dropping her shoulder cutting past a challenge sends a low cross in towards the near post Gough is there can’t quite get the ball out from under her feet before Stevenage’s Ryan closes her down.
The ball given to her as she breaks clear on the left Stevenage’s Searle looks to strike the ball in towards goal from the top of the area, Smith with the save diving to her right to push the ball away. The tempo reduced 2nd half both sides still attacking and counter attacking the ball is rarely still. Gough fouls Makewell in a dangerous position central 20 yards out. It’s the Stevenage striker to take it striking the ball in low towards goal finds it’s way through unimpeded straight at Smith however back on her line the keeper coming forwards to gather the ball.
Both sides make a change within minutes of each other Deacon coming off for Stevenage is replaced by Amy Josland. Faith Hewitt on for Cambridge replaced Shephard. Blanchflower looks to get in behind on the left Pope and Ryan closing her down.
Penalty! Cambridge are awarded a spot kick as Neal s checked inside the box as she goes to strike the ball played into her from Hewitt on the left. A chance for taker Howlett to put the hosts into the lead, looking to place the ball high to the right misses the score remains 0-0.
Stevenage are fired up now feel aggrieved with the penalty award, Howlett gets back on the ball a strong run into the area right of goal fires a squared ball across the Stevenage six yard box, Ryan clearing for Stevenage. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Cambridge probing put a few long range balls into the Stevenage area, Godbeer and Ryan both winning it for the visitors. A second substitution for Stevenage, Pope coming off with Poppy Bennett. Attacking right side the diagonal ball finding Searle coming in field from the left strikes the ball from the top of the area her effort narrowly over the bar, a corner awarded nicking off a Cambridge body on it’s way through. Gough winning the ball for Cambridge from the set-piece.
Blanchflower breaking away into the clear on the right as the diagonal pass put long picks her out taking the ball on into the box strikes across the ball on the angle Vandersluis throwing her gloves out to make the save deflects it central, Neal in on the follow up, so to is Ryan the defender doing superbly to get the ball clear in front of goal.
A goal now would surely be the winner both sides thinking it is there for the taking Howlett with Cantwell in the middle played on for Blanchflower to the right brings the ball inside across the top of the area determined to get a shot away fired in towards the Stevenage goal Bennett blocks for the visitors. Jodie Whitford-Stark comes on as Stevenage make their final substitution Burling coming off. The substitute with a chance to strike the ball early on laid back to her from inside the box off a throw on the right the ball won’t sit for her as Whitford-Stark sends it over.
A free-kick awarded on half way for Cambridge, Cantwell with a good delivery into the area for a moment it looks like Burt might have stolen in behind to attack the far post, Vandersluis managing to get the ball away. Cambridge come close to breaking the stalemate once more Neal with the chance stooping into a header as she positions herself near post the cross played in from the right, Vandersluis diving for it the ball evading her skips out of play off the base of the post.
Cambridge press late on Stevenage hit them on the break the ball fired long up field Emmings getting the better of the defence to strike the ball from just inside the box sees her attempt whistle over the crossbar. Ryan defending up the other end as Howlett looks to break forwards onto the ball played in from the right the Stevenage centre back putting in the tackle as Howlett lines up a shot.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
The final whistle blows and it’s a point a piece as the sides play out a goalless draw. Another point on the board for Cambridge, Stevenage ending their run of losses. Neither side with be happy with the result as both should feel they could have won the game. Cambridge coming the closet. More clinical finishing was needed however defences on top with little time was devoted to the ball in the middle of the park.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a difficult one, defenders on top ultimately especially through the middle. All did a good job, one edging it for me and that is Stevenage Ladies, Charlotte Ryan who made some well timed and important challenges throughout the match.
Nice to see a game under the lights, a great venue and hopefully Cambridge United WFC will get another opportunity to play there soon. My thanks to everyone for their help this evening.
The county league kicked off this Sunday in Cambridgeshire with their once again being a top tier the Premiership with 2 division one leagues the Championship North & South. 8 teams in the Premiership with 3 sides promoted. 7 sides in the Championship South with Haverhill Rovers Ladies re-establishing a women’s team a new addition with Netherton United Ladies at last setting up a Reserves side. Cardea Ladies the new side in the Championship North which is down to just 6 sides after two late withdrawals which sadly include Spalding United Ladies.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
3 games to start the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Cambridge City Ladies Development the early leaders with a big win away to Championship South Champions, Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Cambridge City’s young development side having gained vital experience playing at this level will be stronger this season and started well. Yasmin Crow getting her season off to a flying with a hat-trick on the opening day. Megan Tonks also claimed a brace with Anna Kanz also hitting the back of the net with a goal in a 6-0 victory.
Also winning away from home on the opening day of the season in the Premiership are, double cup winners ICA Sports Ladies. Playing in a Peterborough derby again Championship North Champions Riverside Ladies, ICA Sports claimed the 3 points with a 2-0 win the goals scored by Megan Purnell and Donna Nicholls
A 7 goal thriller elsewhere in the Premiership with the last of the 3 promoted sides Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds also losing out on the opening day, away to Netherton United Ladies who were giving debuts to 5 players. Fulbourn opened the scoring at The Grange. Netherton came back to level Emily Johnson with the goal. Yasmin Green finding the back of the net struck to give the hosts the lead but they were to be pegged back to 2-2 at half-time with Fulbourn scoring in the 44th minute. Into the 2nd half and a penalty to Netherton a chance to restore the lead Green converting the spot kick for her 2nd goal of the game 3-2 were pushed all the way by Fulbourn who were looking for the another equaliser a 4th goal needed Claire Gallagher shooting to make it 4-2 in the last five minutes but there was no relaxing at the death as Fulbourn pulled it back to 4-3 Netherton holding on for the 3 points. Katie Luddy, Marie Stubbings and Krissie Taylor all scoring on the opening day for Fulbourn.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
A good opening Sunday to the Championship North for the two Wisbech clubs as they both record big wins on home soil to start their seasons. Wisbech Town Ladies beginning with a home game against Pinchbeck United Ladies who have strengthened over the close season as they begin their second season. A tough start for the visitors however as they were blown away by Wisbech Town, Sophie Swindon top scorers last season hitting the ground running this campaign with an opening day hat-trick. A brace each for Chloe Stanborough and new captain, Faye Kowalewsky with Emma Woods and Kaylie Swinden both grabbing a goal each in a 9-0 victory.
Top of the table by two goals rivals Wisbech St Mary also start the season with a comfortable home win taking on Hungate Rovers Ladies. Josie Turner moving to St Mary having been with town last season netting an opening day hat-trick, Hannah Shales on target for a brace with Eilish Brown also scoring and own goal too setting up a good result at the beginning of the season 7-0.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
3 games to start the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, Isleham United Ladies ending Sunday top of the pile with an away against Park Ladies who drop down from the Premiership after a couple of difficult seasons. Isleham starting well recording a 6-1 win to earn the 3 points.
New to the league are Haverhill Rovers Ladies, returning to women’s football, a 1st team competing in Cambridgeshire have made some notable signings catching the imagination making them favourites for the title. Still regardless of potential these thing’s have to be earned and beginning their season away to St Ives Ladies Development who themselves are beginning just their 2nd season in women’s football got the 3 points on the opening day coming home with a 5-2 win. Hayley Turner scoring a brace, Paulina Beasley, Joeli Kirby and Siobhan White all adding a goal each for Haverhill. Ellen and Frances Chapman both scoring for St Ives Development.
A trio of away victories in the Championship South on the opening day with Cambridge Rangers Women getting a good result on the road up against Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Getting the 3 points in a 4-0 win.
A new season of football in Suffolk began this weekend with the Women’s Division swelling in size from 9 to 13 sides for the 2018/19 season with 6 new sides entering. Was initially going to be 15 but sadly there have been 3 sides who have withdrawn, Bacton United Ladies and Ipswich Athletic Ladies struggling for numbers aswell as last season’s League Cup finalists AFC Kesgrave Ladies after 1 season in the league. The new sides being Brettvale, Brightlingsea Regent, Chantry Grasshoppers, Haverhill Rovers Ladies Reserves, Needham Market, and Woodbridge Town and a last minute entrant University of Suffolk. Alresford Colne make the switch to Suffolk having previously contested in Essex.
Suffolk Women’s Division
A larger Division, defending Champion’s East Bergholt United Ladies will be looking to end up top of the table once more, going the whole season unbeaten last time out aswell as clinching the double with the League Cup started strongly away from home playing Coplestonians Ladies on the opening day. New signing Stacey Teager making an immediate impact by claiming a hat-trick for East Bergholt. Georgia Lockerbie also netting a brace in the match with goals too for Annie Northwood and Charlotte McGrath in a 7-0 win.
There was an even bigger scoreline away from home for one of the new sides on the opening day as Needham Market Ladies won comfortably away from home in their first ever league game against Chantry Grasshoppers Ladies. Chantry not getting in the pre-season they would have liked started well taking the lead, Needham Market strong though coming back to score 9 goals past there opponents who ended the game with 10 after Jessica Monk was shown a 2nd yellow. Keira Hines getting on the scoresheet for Chantry to score their first ever league goal. A larger league there will be plenty of games to improve and get to know one another.
Brantham Athletic Ladies will be looking to challenge East Bergholt United Ladies at the top of the table once more a 3rd place finish last season they began this campaign at home to Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday. 23 goals for striker Kirsten Hutchings last season, she hit the ground running once again by bagging herself an opening day hat-trick for Brantham with Jodie Sharp also scoring a goal in a 4-1 victory. Claire Rouse with the goal in the first half for Alresford.
Leiston St Margarets Ladies made alot of progression on the pitch last season picking up some good results and will home to build on last season’s mid-table finish. Started with a win on the road against one of the new sides entering the competition, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. A close contest Lucy Eagle scoring to goal in the first period to see Leiston St Margarets leading 1-0 at the break, Eagle netting again in the 2nd half with Emily Gibbs scoring for Brightlingsea Regent to see Leiston St Margarets start the season with a 2-1 win.
2-1 also the winning margin in the final match to bring you from the Suffolk Women’s Division from the opening Sunday. Woodbridge Town Ladies travelling to play Brettvale Ladies both sides new to the league this season. Woodbridge Town coming back to win the game in the 2nd half as Brettvale held the advantage at the half-time interval with Kelly Hannington putting them into a 1 goal lead. Caitlin Howe and Sophie Crane finding the back of the net 2nd half to win the game for Woodbridge Town.
The new season of county league football got underway across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire this Sunday with there once again being 3 divisions, an influx of new sides seeing those swell in number 28 teams in all with 9 in Division One including Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies as well as Garston Ladies 2nd XI and Welwyn Pegasus Sapphires both promoted. Division Two featuring 10 sides with Watton Ladies dropping down, Bedford Ladies Development, Wheathamstead Wanderers Ladies, Welwyn Pegasus Azures and Evergreen Ladies all moving up a league. 6 new sides joining Division Three, 9 sides in all, AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College LFC, AFC Dunstable Ladies Reserves, Kempston Rovers Ladies, Stotfold Juniors Ladies, Langford Ladies and Buntingford Town Ladies the new names. As is Biggleswade United Ladies who were formerly Shefford Town & Compton Ladies. Woburn Lionesses having just the one side this season. Potters Bar United Ladies a late withdrawal from the league.
9 matches taking place on the opening weekend all the action covered below.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Two matches taking place in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One on the opening day of the season and it was a great start to the season for Sharnbrook WFC as they started their season at home with victory over Garston Ladies 1st team. Emma Butler scoring twice in the game with Hoffi Pursey and Charlie Mullins also bagging themselves a goal in a 4-1 win.
Houghton Athletic Ladies also began their league campaign with a home game against last season’s runners-up, Northwood Ladies. The visitors having just the 9 players available at the beginning of the season ran Houghton close nonetheless scoring twice in the match, Houghton coming out on top however clinching a 3-2 win courtesy of a brace from Emily Wilson last season’s top scorer with 24 goals along with an opening game goal for Emily Peat.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
3 games to start the season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two on Sunday and it was a good start to the season for last season’s Division Three Champions, Bedford Ladies Development. Away to Watton Ladies on the opening day came home with a 4-2 win, Jessica Bunnage and Sarah Ridley getting the Bedford goals first half with Amy Butler and Katy Peters making it 4 in the 2nd half. Emma Carter and Gemma Bickell with the goals for Watton Ladies who will be hoping for a better season following last season’s difficult campaign in Division One.
Also starting their season with an opening day win are Hitchin Town Ladies, as they secured the win at home against Evergreen Ladies on Sunday. Not quite the way they would have wanted but it was the difference in a close contest, Evergreen unfortunately putting through their own net the goal the 1-0 result going Hitchin Town’s way.
Elsewhere on the opening day in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two the points were shared between Royston Town Ladies Development and Hitchin Belles. Abby Laughlin and Megan Kaba both scoring a goal each for Royston they couldn’t capitalise allowing Hitchin Belles to get back into the game Shannon Page and Katie White sending the ball into the back of the net to earn the visitors a point in a 2-2 draw.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
A host of new names to kick-off the season in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three and it was a big win for one on the road against another on Sunday. A result Buntingford Town Ladies will want to get out of their system as they as they were soundly beaten at home against AFC Kempston Town & Bedford College LFC. Chloe Urbanowicz getting her season off to a flyer scoring a double hat-trick. Bex Cray also getting an opening game hat-trick. Zara Garrad striking twice with Katie Hay also scoring a goal in a 12-1 victory.
Langford Ladies were also starting the season at home to another new face in the league with AFC Dunstable Ladies starting up a Reserves side. An encouraging start for the visitors as they picked up all 3 points with a win on the opening day, Maddison Ashford, Kerry Mulvihill-Reed and Bianca Vassell all pouncing for a goal each in a 3-0 win.
A new beginning for Shefford Town & Campton Ladies and with it they will be hoping for better fortunes as they become Biggleswade United Ladies. The new era starting with a win on the opening day away to Kempston Rovers Ladies new to the league. Leeanne Davison scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory for Biggleswade United.
Another new side joining the league were also celebrating an opening day win on Sunday. Stotfold Juniors Ladies were at home taking on Bedwell Rangers Ladies, scoring twice it was enough to claim all 3 points in a 2-1 win. Rachel Jones scoring for Bedwell Rangers.
For the 2018/19 season the Essex Women’s County Leagues will have two divisions the Premier and Division One, 11 sides contesting each. 4 new sides in Division One, Island Ladies and Belhus Ladies, Hutton Ladies Reserves returning to the league with Leigh Ramblers Ladies officially becoming ‘experienced’ as they are joined by a new Reserves side. Division One kicked off last Sunday, now it’s the turn of the Premier Division.
Essex Women’s Premier Division
2 matches to start the season in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Runners-up last season in only their 2nd season together Frontiers Ladies will once again be amongst the forerunners in the push for the title in what could prove to be a very intriguing division. Began the season with a win earning the 3 points away to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kelly Holsworth, Kay Foy and new sighing Dempsey Favell seeing Frontiers to a 3-1 win. Grace Leavett scoring the goal for Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies.
It was a difficult campaign in the Premier Division last season for Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Competing in the Premier Division once again started this season off with a great home result over newly promoted Leigh Ramblers Ladies, runners-up in their debut season in women’s football Leigh scored plenty of goals and were on target for 4 away from home at the start of the season, Harlow Town though hit their opponents for 7 goals up the other end to earn the 3 points in their opening league fixture. Ciara Purdue and Hannah Smith both scoring a brace each for Harlow Town, Maisy Wyer, Lucy Edmeades and Claudia Zahui all getting a goal each.
Essex Women’s Division One
New to the league the last thing you want to do is face a side that won 14-0 in their opening league fixture, that though was the story for Belhus Ladies as they travelled to play Billericay Town Ladies Reserves, looking very strong this season as they benefit from the 1st team’s squad strengthening over the summer. It’s now 27 goals in 2 matches of Billericay’s Reserves as they scored 13 goals against Belhus, Nancy Butler getting 5 of the goals for Billericay. Lauren Bourne scoring a hat-trick, both Amy Nash and Lisa Robbins hit two each with Emilia Dingwell also on target for her first goal for the club. Didn’t have it all there own way however as Belhus managed to breach the defence for a consolation goal.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves, Nancy Butler
Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves were the side unfortunate enough to come up against Billericay in that 14-0 defeat last Sunday. Bounced back however as they came out on top in a 7 goal thriller away to Chigwell Ladies this Sunday. Chigwell too with a better performance after a heavy defeat themselves on the opening day, Caitlin Hynes and a brace for Victoria Parker seeing them score 3 goals not enough however as Leigh Ramblers hit 4 at the other end to clinch their 1st 3 points of the season.
Runwell Sports Ladies and Rayleigh Town Ladies both enjoyed good wins on the opening day of the season this Sunday they met with Runwell Sports the hosts. Drawing 1-1 at half-time it was the visitors who went onto have the better of the 2nd half netting 4 more goals to take the game 5-1. Megan Harley and Eleasha Reeves both getting a brace for Rayleigh Town with Jo Cooper also getting on the scoresheet. 2 wins out of 2 for Rayleigh Town. Karen Whitmarsh with the 1st half strike for Runwell Sports.
A good result to start the season too for FC Clacton Ladies last Sunday winning 6-2 at home they were away this Sunday taking on Hutton Ladies Reserves. The points shared in a 2-2 draw, a first league point earned for Hutton with FC Clacton starting undefeated. Baylie Kingsworth and Maisie Threadgold-Smith the goalscorers for Hutton, whilst Becky McDougall and Amy Hartley were both on target for FC Clacton.
Essex Women’s County Cup
An early tie in the 1st Round of the Essex Women’s County Cup saw Division One side Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves away to Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers. A tough test of Chelmsford’s Reserves and so it proved as Collier Row Tigers progressed into the 2nd Round with a comfortable 9-0 win.
The new season of county league football kicked off in Norfolk this Sunday once again there will be two divisions. An 8 strong Division One with an influx of new sides seeing Division Two grow to 12.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
A new name in Norfolk Women’s Division One as Aylsham Ladies return after being forced to withdraw from the league early last season. A new look to the side Robert Hinge coming in as manager previously with Stalham Town Ladies, has brought as large number of those players with him plus a few from North Walsham Angels Ladies who withdrew their woman’s side from the league over the summer.
Aylsham began the new season at home against Beccles Town Ladies who were beginning their 2nd campaign in the league having secured promotion as Division Two runners-up last time out. Goals from Megan Vincent and Taylor Whiting seeing Beccles leading the game 2-1 at half-time, Aylsham were to comeback to equalise and go on to score twice more to begin the season with a 4-2 win.
Bungay Town Ladies began the defence of the Division One title they won last season as part of the double, with an away trip to take on Thorpe United Ladies. Changes for both sides, Thorpe were fielding a good number of last season’s U16 squad in their side. The hosts holding a one goal lead at half-time when on to win the match 2-1 in the 2nd half start with a win, Laura Hedtke and Molly Young getting the goals. Shannon Dade netting the goal for Bungay Town Ladies.
A strong debut season in Division One last season saw Sprowston Ladies clinch runners-up spot as well as the League Plate. Were at home on the opening Sunday taking on Gorleston FC Ladies. Strikes from Sophie Gillett and Nicole Sheldrake the difference for Gorleston as they began their season with a 2-0 victory.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
12 sides contesting Norfolk Women’s Division Two this season including 5 new names. Thetford getting not one side but two with Thetford Town Ladies and Thetford Bulldogs Ladies. Taverham Women step up to adult football, with Hockering Ladies and Horsford Women setting up new sides. Long Stratton Ladies and Fakenham Town Ladies both dropping down from Division One.
Joining women’s football from the youth ranks can take some getting used to takes a little time to adapt, just as Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies who stepped up last season took them a while to find their feet, finished the season strongly. This Sunday it was them who were the dominate side against one of the new comers a home to Bulldogs Ladies, Bure Valley ran rampant in front of goal scoring an eye-watering 17 goals. Kiera Brown top scorer in the game with a double hat-trick. Charlie Cooper opened her account with 4 goals. There was a hat-trick for Abigail Clark, with Becky Wood, Anya Sadler, Juliette Kelly and Lucy Ellis all getting a goal.
It was in Norfolk Women’s Division Two were Women’s Football East took in a game from the new county league season on Sunday a trip to Clipbush Park to watch Fakenham Town Ladies take on Dereham side Tavern Ladies. Few chances created in the first half, Fakenham goalkeeper Chloe Easter with a superb double save to prevent Tavern taking the lead, they were awarded a free-kick from range up the other end Maddie Smith sending a high ball in to drop over the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0.
Tavern Ladies, Charlotte Allum tackling Fakenham’s Sam King
A narrow lead at half-time, Fakenham hit Tavern on the break to double their advantage Jennifer Codman racing through to lob the ball over the advancing keeper. Before Tavern could recover Sam King broke in on goal to make it 3-0. King striking a shot across the keeper to score her second of the game and see Fakenham star the season with a 4-0 win.
If you open you season by scoring 5 goals you would usually expect to be taking away the 3 points however that was not the case for Gorleston Rangers Ladies as they found themselves on the end of defeat at the weekend against visitors Long Stratton Ladies. Lauren Dennis netting a hat-trick for Gorleston Rangers with Chloe Ashton and Rachel Adams both getting a goal. Long Stratton have had a couple of torrid seasons were nearly twice as prolific in front of goal up the other end to claim their 1st win in over a year. Samantha Walker scoring 4 goals, with Emily Watts back from injury scoring a brace, Charlie and Jennifer Head both getting a goal each with Beth Stratton also on the scoresheet in a 9-5 win.
Freethorpe Ladies began their season at home taking on one of the newcomers to the league, Taverham Women. A solid start to the season for both sides as the battled out a goalless draw to share the points.
Lastly two of the newcomers faced off against each other on the opening weekend with Horsford Women hosting Thetford Town Ladies. The visitors enjoying the trip home with the 3 points in the bag. Melissa Boulton scoring a hat-trick for Thetford Town, Laura Martins and Shannon Richardson with a goal a piece, the visitors winning 5-1. Kathryn Gordon scoring the goal for Horsford.
