New leaders in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with Chichester City Ladies making it 4 straight wins to start the season in all competitions as their rivals at the top dropped points on Sunday. Chichester City travelling up to Buckinghamshire to play newly promoted South East Division One Champions at Stadium MK. The 100% percent winning start to the season maintained by a late winner scored by Molly Clark after Chichester City having dominated to game finally broke Milton Keynes Dons Ladies defence to score in the 86th minute. Results going their way to see Chichester City take over at the top. In contrast Milton Keynes are still searching for their first league point of the season.
That came at last for C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday away from home at all places against the then league leaders Loughborough Foxes Women. The home side getting their noses in front midway through the first have with Kate Lowder powering the ball home for her 3rd goal of the season. C&K Basildon getting back on level terms ate in the first period with Madelyn Thomas scoring what was the Essex sides first goal of the season. Loughborough couldn’t find their clinical edge 2nd half and despite hitting the crossbar C&K Basildon defended stoutly to earn a much needed point.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas
Portsmouth FC Women had made it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season were hosting another unbeaten side in the league on Sunday Coventry United Ladies who had earned a draw and win from their opening 2 matches. The away side taking an early lead in the game Helen Dermody tapping the ball home inside the opening 5 minutes. Portsmouth responded well and were back on level terms just 4 minutes later with Rachel Panting on target. Jade Brook getting Coventry United back in front midway through the first half, the visitors awarded a penalty late in the first half after Lois Jefferies was fouled inside the box Dermody missing from the spot. 2-1 to Coventry United at the break, both sides looking for further goals 2nd half defences holding firm however Coventry United climbing up to 3rd in the table as a result.
At home at last for the 1st time this season after 3 successive away trips Cardiff City Ladies are enjoying a much more positive start to the season this time around recovering from an opening day loss well a 3rd successive win in all competitions lifting the Welsh side up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table. Taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies it was the visitors who got off to a flying start Chontele Lawrence sending the ball home in the 5th minute an advantage QPR held going into the half-time interval. Cardiff City started the 2nd half well and were back on level terms 4 minutes after the restart. Took the lead with less than 20 minutes left before running away with the result adding a further 3 goals late on one from the penalty spot to win the match 5-1. Cori Williams and Kylie Rolfe both claiming a brace with Alice Griffiths also on the scoresheet.
Watford FC Ladies were away to Oxford United Women in a Saturday kick-off in the Southern Premier Division. A late winner 3 minutes from time securing the 3 points for the visitors. Oxford United leading at half-time with Georgia Timms scoring in the 19th minute to put them 1-0. Watford were level with 10 minutes played in the 2nd half striker Katie O’Leary pouncing in the box to smash the ball home. The winning goal coming in the 87th minute Watford with a purposeful attack, Helen Ward making the run the ball played into her the Welsh international forward smashing the ball in across the keeper to win the game 2-1.
Newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division, South West Division One Champions are enjoying a good start to the season, A long trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies the venue for Sunday’s match the Medway Priestfield Stadium. Not the result Gillingham would have wanted however as the visitors enjoyed a good first half performance. Zoe Cunningham striking the ball into the back of the net in the 10th minute. Helen Bleazard scoring just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0 to the visitors a goal from Mollie Taylor coming with 5 minutes of the first half left to see Plymouth leading 3-0 at half-time. Captain Katie Middleton making it 4-0 on the hour, Gillingham were awarded a penalty late in the match Maddison Farrand converting what was to be only a consolation goal. The 4-1 win takes Plymouth up into 7th joining 4 sides on 6 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
The excellent start to the season for the clubs promoted to FAWNL South East Division One continues with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies maintaining their 100% winning start to the season. Goals scored seeing Billericay go top last time out, it switches this Sunday with Crawley Wasps hitting Norwich City Ladies for six away from home at the weekend. Goals from Sian Heather and Kemina Webber seeing Crawley Wasps leading the game 2-0 at half-time. Emma Plewa struck to make it 3-0 early in the 2nd half. Heather netting her 2nd goal midway through the 2nd period to make it 4-0 with Naomi Cloe and Suzy Davies striking in the final 10 minutes to seal a 6-0 win.
Scoring 19 goals in their opening 3 matches Billericay Town Ladies needed just the 1 goal to claim the 3 points at the weekend. At home taking of AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Megan Jiggins first goal for Billericay midway through the first half enough against a side who won their fair share of matches by a single goal themselves last season. 3 win from 3 in the league for the two promoted sides.
Leyton Orient WFC climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with their 2nd league win of the season away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, a brace from Lisa Fulgence doing the damage, the striker opening the scoring on 11 minutes, struck again to make the lead more secure with a little over a quarter hour left on the clock.
An equalising goal 17 (yes seventeen) minutes into injury time saw Ipswich Town Women grab a point from their home match with Enfield Town Ladies after they found themselves trailing 3-0 at half-time. Enfield enjoying the first half Sara Degooye scoring on 13 minutes to give the visitors the lead was followed by a brace from Molly Peters to put them in a strong lead. Ipswich mounted a come back in the 2nd half scoring early as Natasha Thomas was brought down in the box, captain Amanda Crump making it 3-1 from the penalty spot. Crump getting another goal soon after to make it 3-2 and set up a tense game that unfortunately over-boiled into a mass brawl at the death Tia Bailey shown a straight red card after putting an opponent in a head lock. A bit of sorting out leading to a lot of stoppage time Ipswich with a late corner Crump involved as the ball was put over the line to make it 3-3 and see the sides share the points.
Late drama too at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday with visitors Denham United Ladies striking late to win for the first time this season against Cambridge United Women. Goals for the visitors a both ends of the 90 with Emma Kern scoring to put Denham 1-0 inside the opening 2 minutes. Held onto the advantage going into the dressing room at half-time. Cambridge pushing for the equaliser found it 2nd half with Vicky Neal getting her head to the ball inside the six yard box from a left sided cross to make it 1-1. Denham though won it late into stoppage time Rae Roberts nipping in to send the ball flying past the keeper into the back of the net.
Another side winning for the first time this season are Actonians Ladies taking on Luton Town Ladies at home on Sunday both going into the game without a point on the board. Catherine Murphy scoring a goal on 10 minutes to see Actonians lead. 1-0 in remained going into the final 20 minutes Carla Williams doubling the score in the 73rd minute ensured Actonians their 1st 3 point haul of the season adding her 2nd and Actonians 3rd goal of the game with 3 minutes of normal time left to play. That result leaving Luton bottom now the only side in the league without a point. Still very early days however and results this weekend mean nothing can be taken for granted.
On the same day as the new fully professional FA Women’s Super League begins so to does the county league season get into full swing across the country. Beginning the season in Norfolk a game from Division Two with Fakenham Town Ladies hosting Tavern Ladies.
Two divisions in Norfolk once again this season, that decided late on however with a host of new sides wishing to join the league, teams thus didn’t know where they would be placed, as it was a few never got going and a possible North/South split to a Division One never happened, 8 sides will contest the top division with 12 sides making up the 2018/19 roster in Division Two including 5 new sides. 3 stepping up from youth football.
Fakenham Town Ladies drop down to Division Two, not necessarily a bad thing after struggling for results for the previous two seasons, an opportunity to rebuild, strengthen and regain morale. Starting the season with a smaller squad than they would have liked but one that is very much an integral part of the larger Fakenham Town football club. Very much a community club have teams playing at youth level from U6 to U17, an U18 means sides, Reserves, Ladies, Veterans and of course the 1st team playing in the Thurlow Nunn League.
Tavern Ladies, are a Dereham based side have been together for the past 2 season’s having previously been Dereham Ladies. Sponsored by The Railway Tavern in Dereham a pub I myself have frequented a few times in my younger days being a Dereham boy myself. Results improving with the name Tavern finished runners-up two seasons back and 3rd last season, will be amongst the sides threatening at the top once again in what is a much larger Division Two.
Clipbush Park the venue for today’s game plenty of activity at the ground already with several youth sides having been in action over on the pitch behind the ground itself. The Ladies game advertised on the entrance to the ground situated in a busy roundabout leading into Fakenham itself. Playing on the main pitch fitness will be a key factor as it is one of the largest and widest in the league. Looking good at the start of the season a small seated stand along the far side of the pitch people more likely to converge on the clubhouse beside the pitch on the near side leading into the ground offering hot drinks and a bar. Cloudy overheard with a cool and brisk breeze blowing across the ground from one goalmouth to the other. Nothing over concerning but it would play a factor in the game especially first half.
Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Ellie Websdale, Jemma Riches, Maddie Smith, Laura Merin, Sian Sands (C), Tara Betts, Fanny Dankskanen, Kayleigh Robb, Jemma Riches, Jennifer Codman & Sam King. Subs – Anna Palomino & Sophie Anderson.
It’s Fakenham wearing yellow shirts with black across the left shoulder, black shorts and socks to get the game underway with Tavern lined up opposite in an all blue kit. Tavern press the ball early keep Fakenham pinned back inside their own half winning a series of throw-ins on the left wing without finding the final ball into the box, Fakenham regain possession the ball put long up the right wing Sam King peeling away into space takes the ball on to the corner before whipping in a cross into the area the ball headed clear by Tavern’s Charlotte Allum.
King pressing with the ball on the right again closing in on the box looks to drop her shoulder push the ball inside cut out by Lucy Lincoln the corner conceded. The ball angled in towards the near post from the right by Sian Sands, Fakenham’s captain, is headed behind for a 2nd corner kick, this one put in longer Zoe Gibbons playing in goal for Tavern comes well through bodies to punch the ball away. Tavern look to break, Tara Betts nips in to win the ball back for Fakenham on the left side before being upended the foul given by referee Andy Waite. Betts to take it herself 25 yards from goal hit along the ground races wide and out of play at the near post.
Tavern Ladies, Rachel Casey
Fakenham are testing the Tavern defence, King with good movement up front making herself available for the ball. Jordie Head intercepting a forward pass turns and puts the ball out to the right for Lanta Griffiths to chase, the Fakenham defence converging on the attacker outnumbered the ball is lost the home side bring it forwards, Sands, King and Ellie Websdale building an attack in front of the Tavern area, Sands set up for a shot left of the D is closed down by Roxanne Bailey.
Tavern Ladies Lanta Griffiths
Tavern look a threat on the break Griffiths with good pace right bringing the ball inside has Katie Hart-Copsey free on the left gives her the ball, taking it on early Hart-Copsey sends the diagonal ball looping up towards the far post the ball running wide of goal. Tavern regain the ball in the middle of the park Emily Bell on for Griffiths, has Lucy Kean with her making a run central the ball into her rolled wide left for Hart-Copsey closer in this time she hooks the ball in towards goal on the angle, on target is safely caught by Fakenham goalkeeper Chloe Easter back on her line.
Tavern Ladies, Charlotte Allum tackling Fakenham’s Sam King
The early stages of the game fairly even, Tavern getting more players into advanced roles when they are attacking. Laura Merin making a couple of vital interceptions at centre back for the hosts, with Hart-Copsey wanting the ball played into her. Up the other end King is the threat for Fakenham looking for space, hustling the Tavern defence shows good strength to win a bouncing ball laid forwards, getting a shot away from 25 yards out, hitting it as it skips up off the surface the strike sails over the bar.
Tavern captain, Sophie Fuller getting control of the ball in the middle combines well with Hart-Copsey to the left as they bring the ball into the Fakenham half Hart-Copsey with a good ball inside to Griffiths making a run right side her 1st time strike is blocked by Merin. The wind is blowing fairly briskly across the ground is holding the ball up a little favouring Fakenham, Sands coming forwards with Jennifer Codman in close support through the middle the pass forwards dropping into the path of King breaking towards the edge of the area Gibbons comes out quickly sliding in to smother the ball at the attackers feet.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Jemma Riches
Tavern counter attack with urgency the ball carried out of defence the pass put long into the path of Griffiths cutting inside from the right, controls the ball well before digging a shot out of feet before she is charged down, her 30 yard effort a foot over the Fakenham crossbar. Tavern are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous area after Merin handles the ball trying to bring in clear for Fakenham. 20 yards out left of the D, Fuller takes position over the ball puts a good ball in towards the far post area the ball standing up in the breeze is headed goalwards by Griffiths blocked at close range the ball drops to the floor inside the six yard box Rachel Casey with a snap shot again blocked.
Tavern are enjoying a good spell of possession inside the Fakenham half Hart-Copsey winning a corner, delivered into the near post the ball is headed up onto the roof of the net a 2nd corner kick given, a longer effort this time, Maddie Smith getting it away for Fakenham. Tavern are ready to spring an attack whenever they regain the ball in the middle, Fuller has a good range of passing ability, plays the ball on for Kean central she tries to release Hart-Copsey early on the left side, Merin covering the ground well to get across and put in the tackle.
Websdale committing a foul wide left another chance for Tavern to play the ball into their area from a set-piece Fuller sending the ball high into the box, Merin gets her head on it to clear for Fakenham. Fakenham make a switch midway through the 1st half Smith coming off, replaced by Anna Palomino. Merin is busy in defence for Fakenham closing down to regain possession.
The goalkeepers for both sides have had relatively little to do so far in the match, Easter called into action pulls off a superb double save to deny Tavern the opening goal of the game. Tavern build well players coming forwards through the middle with Hart-Copsey on the ball down the left squares the ball inside towards Kean 25 yards out from goal she helps it on to Fuller coming in central she sets herself for the shot making good contact the ball racing in towards goal, Easter is right behind it but needs to get down sharply to block, stopping Fuller’s strike the ball is loose and Kean racing in on the follow-up is first to it tries to open her body up to place the ball wide of the keeper, but can’t Easter with the double block.
Smith returns to the field for Fakenham with Betts coming off. Fakenham push forwards Riches with Sands right side the ball into the area headed away for a throw on the right. Bailey defends well for Tavern up against King as she looks to power her way into the area. Tavern get Fuller onto the ball she spins putting the ball out to Hart-Copsey, her early cross laid in towards the top of the Fakenham area cut out by Merin.
GOAL! 35 minutes played and the deadlock is broken Fakenham taking the lead the goal coming from a set-piece given away as Kayleigh Robb is brought down as she carries the ball forwards on the left. Smith to take, 30 yards out to the left of the Tavern goal she strikes it well sending the ball high into the area a little wind assist no doubt helping as the ball drops over the keeper to land inside the side netting 1-0.
The ball drops into the back of the net from Maddie Smith’s free-kick to give Fakenham the lead
Maddie Smith scorer of the first goal of the season for Fakenham Town Ladies
Fakenham regain possession from the restart the ball played up the line right side by Websdale on for King who carries the ball on to the byline before cutting a cross back into the Tavern area running long for Robb coming in from the left she doesn’t get the ball under control to strike it 1st time allows the Tavern defence to get away for a throw on the left Fakenham press late on the ball put into towards the near post with King lurking, a touch taking it wide of goal the corner given again swung in near post Gibbons takes command of the situation coming to claim the ball.
Easter with another important save right at the end of the first half comes out bravely to the edge of her box to slide in and claim the ball at Kean’s feet as she looks to get onto Hart-Copsey’s cross put in from the left.
Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 1-0 Tavern Ladies
An intriguing first half which sees Fakenham take a narrow lead into the dressing room. Could very easily have been the other way around. Clear cut chances at a premium, defences working hard. King causing all sorts of problems for the Tavern back line not playing off any single defender. Tavern attacking with purpose and pace whenever they can. Easter denying them the lead themselves all poised for the 2nd period.
Tavern to get the ball rolling for the 2nd half. The sun has broken up the clouds warmer now and with it the breeze that was prevalent first half has disappeared. It’s Gibbons called into action with a spectacular save in the opening minutes as her side lose the ball is fed into King breaking clear left of the box she aims to shot across the Tavern keeper, Gibbons throwing herself down to the left to push the ball away from goal.
Hart-Copsey operating on the right wing for Tavern now likes to get the ball at her feet and take on players a strong run on the wing she vents her frustration as her final ball from the corner of the area is sliced behind the goal. A busy start to the 2nd half Easter has to come and claim the ball low as it is pinged forwards for Kean to chase, never really gets control of the bouncing ball which enables the keeper to save.
Tavern’s Katie Hart-Copsey keeping an eye on the ball with Fakenham’s Anna Palomino
Tavern build through the middle Bell onto Griffiths her past long finds Hart-Copsey wide right a terrific cross fired in across the face of the Fakenham goal, excellent defending from Merin at the far post to get the ball away from danger.
GOAL! End to end action at the start of the 2nd half Tavern are hit on the counter attack as Fakenham double their lead the ball deflected forwards in the middle sees Codman running free in behind the visitors defence, seeing it down over her shoulder, 25 yards from goal the advancing goalkeeper in her sights she sends the lob over her and runs away in celebration as the ball bounces into the back of the net 2-0. 53 minutes played.
Jennifer Codman
Fakenham have their tails up bringing the ball forwards King is played in left of the D she moves across looking for an opening to shoot, taking to long Allum steps in to make the tackle out to Lincoln who sends the ball on for Fuller, Danskanen in to win the ball back for Fakenham. Lesha Bagura enters the game for Tavern moving into a forward position Head coming off. Gibbons catching the ball as Websdale shoots from all of 30 yards out the ball played into her by Riches.
GOAL! Fakenham capitalise to get themselves a bigger lead another goal coming about from a counter attack, Tavern having won a corner Fakenham win the ball come forwards with Dankskanen she times her through ball from the right side perfectly for King in the centre running clear Gibbons comes racing out to the edge of her area sliding in as King pulls the trigger the ball past her as striker and goalkeeper collide, racing back the Tavern defence can’t reach the rolling ball in time as it crosses the line 3-0.
A delay in play as Gibbons is hurt are the coming together accidental but painful the goalkeeper sadly can’t continue has a nasty black eye for her efforts, walking off the pitch however, Head is the player volunteering to done the goalkeepers gloves for the remainder of the game. Sands comes across to make the tackle on Griffiths as Hart-Copsey attempts to slide a pass into her from the right as she makes a central run.
Tavern get the ball forwards on the right Hart-Copsey linking up with Bagura wins a corner on the right played long into the area Lincoln up from the back the target, Smith getting close and heading the ball away for Fakenham. Sophie Anderson is on for Websdale for Fakenham the ball with her on the right moving deep she wins a throw-in. Play stretched now Tavern losing their shape a little Fakenham full of confidence press forwards. Dankskanen winning the ball right slid forwards for King her snapshot from 25 yards out charged down by Lincoln. King nips in ahead of the Tavern defence stabbing a shot over the bar as she is alert to Robb’s ball in from the right as she brings it forwards down the left.
GOAL! Fakenham go further in front as King nips in to score her 2nd of the game, the build up on the right, Dankskanen isn’t closed down as she picks her past slipping the ball in behind the Tavern back line as King supplies the run coming towards her spins into the path of the ball and right of the target sends her shot across goal into the far corner 2-0.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Sam King
Tavern frustrated nevertheless press on Hart-Copsey with a good run on the right wins her side a corner in towards the near post, Fakenham have it covered concede a 2nd corner this one goes longer, Smith clearing back to the corner taker, Hart-Copsey lines up a ball into the box, it’s Merin who clears with the header for the home side this time.
King with a chance for an opening day hat-trick almost a carbon copy of the previous goal Dankskanen playing her in on the right inside the box she takes on the shot drags this one wide across the face of goal. Tavern win themselves a corner on the right the ball played back out to Hart-Copsey sends a driven cross back into the congested area cleared falls straight to Bell 20 yards out right of the D doesn’t get a clean connect sends her attempt wide of the target.
A snap shot struck on the half-volley by Kean from the edge of the Fakenham box as the visitors push forwards on the left the diagonal ball is fired in low towards the area Palomino first to it sends her clearance straight at the on rushing Tavern attacker a good improvised effort loops over the crossbar. The game open now Fakenham break Robb putting a pass out to King drifting free on the right, swings a cross into the area, Anderson near post, Sands central the ball falls between them Allum able to get her head on it to clear for Tavern.
Codman picks up a knock for Fakenham comes off the field with Websdale heading back on. Fuller with a quality strike from the top left corner off the area comes within a lick of paint of pulling a goal back for Tavern the ball cut back across the area towards her from the byline her strike racing across the diving Easter comes back off the base of the far post. Fakenham with a free-kick wide left players go forwards into the area Sands over the ball the delivery long towards the far post a header comes in the ball though driven behind off target.
Tavern Ladies, Sophie Fuller
Robb with a powerful run on the ball down the left, can’t shake off Bailey as she tries to get inside her the defender lunging in to win the ball. Betts comes back on to replace Robb the game entering the final minutes. Fuller with a terrific ball forwards for Hart-Copsey on the right wing clear she sweeps in a cross looking for Kean closing in far post, Merin up against her with another top draw defensive tackle to prevent a shot coming in.
Even as I’m writing that attacking move down Fakenham are on the counter attack the ball out right fired in across the face of the Tavern goal Anderson closing in on the far post 2 yards out is tackled Bailey I think the ball behind for a corner. Tavern defend the set-piece. All Fakenham in the closing moments Bailey with a last ditch tackle inside the box denies Anderson a shot on goal as she makes a run to the right. The corner conceded playing in from the right isn’t cleared inside the area Fakenham can’t get a shot away Tavern scramble the ball away.
Full time Fakenham Town Ladies 4-0 Tavern Ladies
The final whistle blows and Fakenham Town Ladies celebrate with an opening day victory. 4-0 the final score finishing the game stronger capitalising with an early goal 2nd half to double their lead quickly became 3-0 and from their looked to have the 3 points in the bag. Tavern had their chances however and the first half might well have been the side leading themselves. Fakenham were the stronger side in the 2nd period took their goals well. Tavern had chances and on another day they would have capitalised themselves, a disappointing defeat nonetheless to begin their season need to and can bounce back, certainly have the ability. After a couple of difficult season’s this is a very welcome result for Fakenham and one that will do wonders for team spirit.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Time to pick this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Sometimes they are difficult sometimes they are easy, today’s is the latter. The notes will usually reveal a contender or two but sometimes a stand out performer will present themselves long before that and right from her first interception Fakenham Town Ladies centreback Laura Merin put herself forwards. On numerous occasions she was the defender making that interception, winning the header or last ditch tackle.
A good contest to begin the county league season, another example of why I’ve fallen in love with the grassroots game, just makes choosing which one to go to next all the harder. My thanks as always to both sides for their help with the team details.
The new season of county league football began early in Essex with 8 teams for Essex Women’s Division One getting their season started with some eye watering scores and heavy defeats for 2 of the leagues newcomers.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves will be alot stronger this season partly due to the added strength in depth the squad has gained following several new signings for the first team. And whilst the first team was recording a double figure win in the FAWNL Cup Determining Round, the Reserves out did them by scoring 14 goals at home to Leigh Ramblers Ladies Reserves. A harsh beginning to life in women’s football to what will be a very inexperienced side playing at this level. Both Lisa Robbins and Georgia Box featuring for Billericay’s Reserves hit 4 goals each on the opening day with a hat-trick each for Lauren Bourne and Nancy Butler.
It was raining goals elsewhere across Essex too on Sunday, Chigwell Ladies hosting Runwell Sports Ladies in their opening game of the season. Both relegated from the Premier Division, Runwell Sports were overwhelming winners, Aaryanna Simonelli scoring 4 goals for the visitors to begin her account for the club. Chelsea Stephens getting an opening day brace too with Autumn Ranger and Ashleigh Harvey both getting on the scoresheet in an 8-1 win.
Rayleigh Town Ladies got there season off to a perfect start with a home win and clean sheet against Hutton Ladies Reserves returning to the league after withdrawing part way through last season. Isabella Wallings captaining Rayleigh Town scored an incredible 42 goals last campaign and she wasted no time in getting off the mark this campaign either scoring an opening day hat-trick. Holly Gash too was amongst the goals last season with 19 to her name opened her season with a brace on Sunday with Megan Harley pushing double figures last season also getting a goal as Rayleigh Town began with a 6-0 win.
Another side scoring 6 goals at home in their opening game of the season were FC Clacton ladies taking on another league newcomer Island Ladies. Leading 4-2 at half-time FC Clacton went on to add a further 2 goals 2nd half with Amy Hartley top scoring in the match with a hat-trick. Jasmine Burley, Sophie Chaplin-Perkins and Charlotte Warren the other goalscorers for FC Clacton. Jess Bowen and Lily Ryley with the 1st half goals for Island Ladies.
The league sadly reduced to 11 teams with Walden Ladies struggling for numbers deciding to withdraw. Wishing everyone at the club all the best and hope those wanting to continue playing can hook themselves up with a new team soon.
A limited fixture list within the ERWFL this Sunday with the majority of clubs taking part in the FA Women’s Cup, this weekend seeing First Round Qualifying taking place go to the previous post to see how those clubs fared.
One game was played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, Bedford Ladies hosting Haringey Borough Women. Starting the season with 2 successive draws Bedford recorded their first win of the season to lift them up to 2nd in the fledgling Premier Division table. Maya Sidhu finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the game. Jodie Molloy and Amy Magnus were also on target with a goal each in a 6-1 win. The tough start to the season continues for Haringey as they loose for the 3rd time.
ERWFL Division One
4 matches played in ERWFL Division One on Sunday with league leaders Stevenage Ladies keeping up a 100% winning start to the season away to newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Emily Schofield netting a brace with Hannah Marshall also on target, an own goal securing a 4-0 victory and dare I say it no goals conceded yet either.
2 wins from 2 at home for Hutton Ladies see the Essex side up to 2nd in Division One the latest victory coming on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. New signing Rosi Webb scoring a hat-trick in her first appearance for the club. Victoria Kinsman, Kaitlin Sugg and Hayley Critchell also scoring a goal each in a 6-2 result. Claire Pavett and Katie Williams on the scoresheet for Hertford.
A good win on the road for newly promoted Lawford Ladies, building on last weekends home win picked up a 2nd 3 point haul with victory at King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday. Both captain Daisy Canny and Tyler Christou bagging a brace each in a 4-1 win that lifts the Essex side up to 4th in the table. King’s Lynn Town’s goal coming from Jodie Hopkins captaining the side in her 1st game since returning to the club.
Newmarket Town Ladies left it late to earn a draw at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday and claim their first league point of the season. Natasha Crick scoring to put the visitors into the lead after 11 minutes 1-0 up at the break Newmarket got back level just after the restart. A dramatic finish to the game as Kristina O’Connell restored Hoddesdon’s lead in the 83rd minute the visitors couldn’t hold on however as Newmarket came back once again to level it at 2-2 in the closing minutes, Laura Bailey and Lauren Deller their goal scorers.
Hot on the heels of last Sunday’s very wet Preliminary Round the FA Women’s Cup is back for a 2nd success Sunday with First Round Qualifying. 12 ties featuring sides playing in the East with some high scoring wins along the way.
For the 2nd successive Sunday, Wymondham Town Ladies have progressed without kicking a ball so too Essex Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos Women as their opponents were forced to withdraw. The pair incidentally drawn together in Second Round Qualifying that draw to come at the end of The Round-Up
It was a huge scoreline for ERWFL Premier Division side, Cambridge City Ladies in First Round Qualifying as they ran out double figure winners over Cambridgeshire Premiership newcomers, Riverside Ladies on Sunday. Erin Davies netting a double hat-trick top scorer for Cambridge. Both Bronte Rapley and Sofia Castiglione both getting two each. Amy Reed, Laura Mills, Hannah Bodily & Anna Goggin also getting a goal apiece in a 14-0 result.
It was double figures too for Royston Town Ladies in First Round Qualifying as the ERWFL Premier Division side proved to be to strong for Division One opponents Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. Royston’s goals spread out amongst the side, Samantha Edgar and Hayley Elderd both scoring a brace the other goalscorers, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Angharad Chambers, Eva Ramsey, Rebecca Scott & Sammy Tinsley.
There were 8 goals shared between Peterborough Northern Star Ladies & Northampton Town Ladies in their First Round Qualifying tie before Peterborough Northern Star clinched victory in the penalty shoot-out. Katie & Cassie Steward, Jessica Driscoll and Bronwyn Mulheron getting the goal for the hosts, Northampton matching that tally extra-time not separating the sides an eventful game finally settled with spot kicks Peterborough Northern Star emerging 3-1 winners to progress to the next round.
St Ives Town Ladies progressing to First Round Qualifying with an extra-time winner over Corby Town Ladies were at home again in First Round Qualifying taking on EMWFL Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies. Another tough test for St Ives, Peterborough strong in the first half Hannah Pendred scoring in the 10th minute to give the visitors the lead. Kier Perkins doubling the advantage to see Peterborough leading 2-0 at half-time. St Ives got themselves a goal back in the 2nd half Caitlin Jarman putting the ball home to make it 2-1. Peterborough held onto their lead to reach the next round.
AFC Dunstable Ladies were at home to Watford Ladies Development in First Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. Running out comfortable winners, Storm Sherry Burrows opening the scoring in the 15th minute went on to score again with a goal from Rachel Moffat in between to see Dunstable leading 3-0 at half-time. Moffat adding her 2nd of the tie 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Samaira Khan struck home with 10 minutes left on the clock to make it 5-0.
A brace from Poppy Binding the winning goal coming 5 minutes from the end saw Harlow Town Ladies overcome fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday in reach Second Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup as they ran out 2-1 victors away from home. Lauren Knight scoring for Brentwood.
First half goals from Sheree Oliver and Lucy Hancock were enough to see ERWFL Premier Division side, Colney Heath Ladies at home through to the next round of the FA Women’s Cup after they ran out 2-0 winners over opponents Houghton Athletic Ladies, from Beds & Herts Women’s Division One playing their 1st competitve game of the season.
Histon Ladies were at home in First Round Qualifying taking on Northamptonshire side, Thrapston Town Ladies this Sunday. The ERWFL Division One side winning for the first time this season to advance into the next round. After a goalless first half, Katie Webb struck early in the 2nd half to put Histon into the lead. Kaya Haqi’s 1st goal for Histon doubling the lead Thrapston Town pulled it back to 2-1 deep into stoppage time.
Women’s Football East was at Beccles Town FC last Sunday in the rain to watch Chelmsford City Ladies clinch victory in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup to set up a First Round Qualifying home tie against AFC Sudbury Ladies. Chelmsford exiting the competition but by the narrowest of margins against their ERWFL Premier Division opponents as Sudbury won the tie by a single goal Mia Etheridge finding the back of the net to see the Suffolk side progress.
Mia Etheridge
Leigh Ramblers Ladies join fellow Essex Women;s Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos in the next round of the FA Women’s Cup with a 2-0 win over higher league opponents Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on Sunday. Leigh Ramblers were making their debut in the competition, defended well as Bowers & Pitsea created chances first half keeping their fellow Essex side at bay Leigh took the lead late in the 1st half. Doubled the advantage from a corner early in the 2nd half and despite Bowers & Pitsea pressing for a reply couldn’t find it as Leigh celebrated victory.
One final tie to report on ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Ladies travelled to Northamptonshire to play Kettering Town Ladies in their First Round Qualifying tie. A brace from attacker Grace Birchall along with midfielder Amber Rowland netting her first goal of the season saw the Norfolk side safely through the next round with a 3-1 victory.
The draw for Second Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup was made on Monday the sides from FAWNL Division One entering the competition. Selected ties featuring sides playing in the East are listed below.
Billericay Town Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies v Corringham Cosmos Women
AFC Sudbury v Acle United Ladies
Chesham United Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies
Histon Ladies v Leigh Ramblers Ladies
Cambridge City Ladies v Leyton Orient WFC
Luton Town Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies
Enfield Town Ladies v Actonians Ladies
Boston United Ladies v Norwich City Ladies
New London Lionesses v Ipswich Town Women
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Stevenage Ladies
Queens Park Rangers Girls v Royston Town Ladies
Cambridge United WFC v Harlow Town Ladies
Denham United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
AFC Wimbledon Ladies v AFC Phoenix Ladies
Second Round Qualifying ties to be played Sunday 23rd September with the winners receiving £450. Good luck to all.
The sunny weather returning at the start of September, the FAWNL takes a weekend off from the league as all it’s member clubs face-off in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The victors going on to play for the Cup proper the losing sides going on to contest the Plate.
15 of those ties featuring clubs playing in the Southern Premier Division or South East Division One on Sunday. Plenty of goals scored too. Billericay Town Ladies newcomers to the FAWNL the biggest winners as they scored double figures to progress to the Cup proper winning at home to South West Division One side, Maidenhead United Ladies. Karissa Rodney and Samantha Pittock both scoring a hat-trick each for Billericay. Jay Blackie bagged herself a brace, with a goal each for Zoe Rushen and Hayley Piggott in a 10-1 demolition
Crawley Wasps Ladies newcomers to FAWNL South East Division One with Billericay Town Ladies were also big winners in the Determining Round, taking on Ipswich Town Women at home for the 2nd time in 2 weeks having beaten the Suffolk side 5-1 on the opening day of the season. Sian Heather setting the ball rolling with the opening goal for Crawley in the 14th minute. Kemina Webber and Megan Stow scoring within 3 minutes of each other mid-way through the first half to put the hosts 3-0, Faye Rabson and Webber with her 2nd of the match adding a further 2 goals late in the first period to put Crawley in full control of the game with a 5-0 half-time lead. Closing in on the final quarter hour of the game Charlotte Cooper scored to make it 6-0, with Naomi Cole and Stow with her 2nd of the game scoring at the death the seal an 8-0 win.
It was the East Anglian derby on Sunday the men’s sides meeting at Portman Road, Ipswich Town Women suffering a heavy defeat their East Anglian rivals Norwich City Ladies fared little better away to Southern Premier Division side Coventry United Ladies. Amy Wathan a new signing for Coventry from Yeovil Town Ladies lobbed the keeper on 9 minutes to score her first goal for the club. Wathan adding a 2nd goal heading the ball in to make it 2-0 with Amber Hughes on hand to make it 3-0 soon after. A 3-0 advantage at half-time. Jade Brooks getting amongst the goals to make it 4-0 in the 2nd half, Wathan went on to score her 3rd and complete a hat-trick. Hughes grabbing another goal, Marie Gauntlett also getting her name on the score sheet at the final whistle to send Coventry on into the Cup proper with a 7-0 victory.
Southern Premier Division joint leaders, Loughborough Foxes Women continued their fine start to the season with a home win over South East Division One side, Denham United Ladies on Sunday to progress to the opening round of the FAWNL Cup. Eva Rogers scoring the goal midway through the first period to hand Loughborough the lead at half-time. Laura Dexter made it 2-0 just after the restart. Charlotte Cooper with her 4th goal of the season scoring to make it 3-0 in the final 20 minutes. Shauna Chambers also getting a goal for Loughborough to see them win 4-0.
The FAWNL Cup Determining Round is were this Sunday’s action came from on Women’s Football East a trip to Mildenhall Town FC the home of Cambridge United WFC to see the South East Division One side take on Southern Premier Division side C&K Basildon Ladies. A much changed line-up for last season’s Southern Premier Division runner’s up a new era at the club a squad made up largely of last season Southern/South East Reserves league champions. Cambridge have several new signings themselves and hit the ground running a high tempo game right from the start, the hosts creating chances finding space the goal coming in the 20th minute to put Cambridge into the lead. Amber Cantwell’s superb pass forwards finding captain Kelly Blanchflower in space on the right she shot from the top of the area sending the ball over the keeper to score.
Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard
1-0 the advantage at the break, C&K Basildon pressed looking for a reply Cambridge you felt needed a 2nd goal and it came early on with club captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt nodding the ball in from close range from a corner to make it 2-0 with her 2nd goal of the season. Space opening up as C&K Basildon searched for a reply Danielle Sillitoe coming closest with a long range strike that struck the upright. Cambridge having further chances too winning the game 2-0. For the full match report click on the following link https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-343/
Portsmouth FC Women leading the Southern Premier Division were at home in the Determining Round taking on another side with a winning start to the season local rivals Chichester City Ladies. Helen Ogle with the goal in the opening minute to put the visitors into the lead. Shannon Albuery bringing the scores level for Portsmouth with 7 minutes left to play in the first half. Chichester restoring their lead before the half-time whistle as Jade Widdows found the back of the net. A 2nd half brace for Chloe Melton putting Chichester into a strong position leading 4-1 going into the final quarter hour. Sarah Eadon pulling it back to 4-2 with five minutes left, not enough Portsmouth entering the FAWNL Plate.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies met fellow promoted side Milton Keynes Dons Ladies away from home in the Southern Premier Division, Plymouth winning the encounter 4-3. Now the sides met again 2 weeks later in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, Milton Keynes Dons making the long trip down to the South West. Natasha Knapman who scored all 4 of Plymouth’s goal in their opening day victory set the ball rolling putting Plymouth into the lead on 5 minutes. Amber Pollock doubling the lead midway through the first half a goal from Kayley Lane in the closing minute of the first half putting Plymouth into a 3-0 lead. Milton Keynes Dons responded early 2nd half to bring it back to 3-1. Rebecca Dandridge restoring Plymouth’s 3 goal cushion within a matter of minutes. Milton Keynes Dons once again pulling a goal back on 64 minutes it wasn’t enough as Plymouth secured the win. Kerry Newman and Kim Farrow with the Milton Keynes Dons goals.
A first victory of the season for Queens Park Rangers Women as they won at home in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup against fellow Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday. Courtney Ward-Chambers giving QPR the lead 20 minutes into the match. Leading 1-0 Sue Kumaning struck to make it 2-0 with 20 minutes left to play. Gillingham pulling it back to 2-1 straight away the nerves weren’t settled until the closing minute with Ward-Chambers on target for her 2nd of the game to secure a 3-1 win.
Ellie Noble scored two fantastic goals in each half for Oxford United Women to see theCardiff Southern Premier Division side through to the FAWNL Cup proper on Sunday were away taking on South East Division One side Actonians Ladies who have now started the season with three losses. Good news though as last season’s top scorer Alessandra Barreca was back with a goal in the closing minutes to pull Actonians back into the match in the final 5 minutes, Oxford going on to win 2-1.
A 2-1 away victory too for Watford FC Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side taking on South West Division One side Poole Town Ladies. The score 1-1 at half-time, Faye Rolfe-Hawkins on target with the goal for Poole. Linda Afuakwah getting Watford’s goal. It was unfortunately an own goal that settled the match second half in favour of Watford.
Cardiff City Ladies from the Southern Premier Division were away to South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. Goals from Cori Williams, Nadia Lawrence and Kelly Issac in the opening 22 minutes putting Cardiff well on the way to victory Grace Horrell adding a 4th goal to Cardiff’s tally early in the 2nd half as the welsh side went on to win the tie 4-1.
South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelled down to the South Coast on Sunday to play South West Division One side Southampton Saints in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. The sides heading for extra-time with the score still 0-0 heading into the final five minutes, captain Jess Trimnell grabbing the winning goal for AFC Wimbledon with 3 minutes left on the clock to send the visitors home with the win.
A tough start to the season for Luton Town Ladies losing their opening two league matches were hosting South West Division One side Cheltenham Town Ladies this Sunday in the Determining Round. Annie Martin putting the visitors into the lead scoring with half an hour played. Luton pulled the scores level to go in 1-1 at half-time Nicola Henman with the goal. Amy Leach scored early in the 2nd half to put Cheltenham back in front with Martin scoring her 2nd of the game in the final 20 minutes to send Cheltenham into the FAWNL Cup proper.
South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC, were away in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday playing South West Division One side, Swindon Town Ladies. Goals from Lisa Fulgence, Hayley Barton and Danielle Griffiths putting Leyton Orient 3-0 up at half-time. Sophie Le Marchand added a 4th goal with Fulgence adding another goal in a 5-1 win. Abby Picton with the Swindon goal midway through the 2nd half.
Last but not least another South West, South East Division One clash with Chesham United Ladies hosting Enfield Town Ladies in the Determining Round. The sides level at half-time the score 1-1. Tia Bailey with Enfield’s goal in the 25th minute. Sara Degooye adding a 2nd goal for Enfield with 15 minutes left the winning goals coming at the death for the visitors as Enfield ran out 4-2 winners in the end, Degooye with her 2nd of the game on 87 minutes, Molly Peters striking in the 90th minute. Niamh Euman and Gemma Fraser with the goals in each half for Chesham.
The competition line-up settled, be it in the FAWNL Cup or Plate everyone still with a chance to contest for silverware. Details of both draws to announced shortly.
The sun has made a welcome return for the start of September as the FAWNL Cup begins with it’s traditional Determining Round all the FAWNL sides contesting the winners going on to compete for the Cup the losing sides going on to play for the Plate. A trip to Mildenhall Town FC this Sunday, the home of South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Premier Division side, C&K Basildon Ladies.
The FAWNL the new name for the league known as the National League now as a pose the previously being called the FAWPL (Premier League) the format of the leagues still the same two ‘Premier’ Divisions, Northern and Southern and four regional Division One’s, South East, South West, Midlands and Northern. 72 sides in all. Alot of changes in regards to the teams within following the restructure and new licences issued to clubs joining the FAWSL. Player movement on the whole has been at it’s highest levels too this close season.
Cambridge United WFC amongst those that have brought in several new faces which include Vicky Neal who has played for Watford FC Ladies whilst they were in FAWSL 2. Attacker Becky Shephard who has scored plenty of goals at every club she’s been at rising through the women’s football pyramid was at ERWFL Premier Division side, Royston Town Ladies last season. Kelly Bingham joins having played for the likes of Watford and MK Dons previously. Steph Gale has 8 years playing experience in the USA, was at Luton Town Ladies for a spell last season. Abi Davies enjoyed a good season with Histon Ladies last campaign. Emily Smith from Peterborough United Ladies and Albany Hodgson with King’s Lynn Town Ladies will also be looking to progress.
Cambridge’s reserves squad will be playing in the FAWNL Southern/South East Reserves league this coming season. The First team has started the season well unbeaten in their opening two league games a draw and a win against AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC who were both in the hunt for the title last season.
A whole new era for C&K Basildon Ladies, the Essex side making a rapid rise through the leagues, achieved their highest ever finish last season, runners-up to Charlton Athletic Women in the FAWPL Southern Premier Division. For all that time the club has been well supported financially by Peter King, whose passion for the side saw it become one of the leading forces for women’s football in Essex. Peter King has now retired and this signals a new beginning for C&K Basildon Ladies, not that Peter won’t be around.
Gone is manager Steve Tilson and almost all of the 1st team squad from last season. A new side, players brought in the emphasis very much on youth. A good base for this is last season’s Development squad that won the FAWPL Southern/South East Reserves league last season. Les Thompson managing that side is joined Luke Pierre in managing the new look team. Alex Bailess handed the captain’s armband. Courtney Clarke is the latest addition to the squad the former Writtle forward adding a goal threat up front. Two big losses to begin the new league campaign against Portsmouth and Cardiff a team that has to hit the ground running alot to ask, but confidence is high within the squad that is getting to grips with what the management team is asking of them.
The FAWNL Cup Determining Round a distraction from the league clubs have approached it in various ways in the past, with no one knocked at this stage, and ending up playing for the Plate is no less important, silverware is silverware just as Lewes FC Women and West Ham United Women.
Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s match, been here several times before but for anyone who hasn’t it is distinctive for its sloped pitch from one goal mouth to the other. An immaculate playing surface too offering plenty of width. New dugouts a clubhouse beside the pitch. A contrast from last Sunday, raining everywhere, today the sun is high in a clear blue sky.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Kelly Bingham, Amy Howlett, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Emma Jenkins, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Holly Northfield, Faith Hewitt & Mollie Coupar.
C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Chelsea Hinz, Grace Gillard, Danielle Sillitoe, Nicola Moore, Alex Bailess (C), Madelyn Thomas, Sophie Rhodes, Gemma Abela, Katie Whitehead, Courtney Clarke & Ella Tooley. Subs – Jodie Osborne & Madelene Wright.
It’s Cambridge to get the game underway attacking up the slope in the 1st half, Vicky Neal out and Emma Jenkins on the bench, Fran Gough and Abi Davies make up the right side of the defence for today’s game. Wearing their home colours amber shirts with black shorts and socks. Basildon have a few players unavailable for the match themselves, are kitted out in an all blue kit. The ball played up the left by Becky Shephard her through ball gives Basildon goalkeeper Chelsea Hinz an early claim inside her box.
At the other end Cambridge goalkeeper, Savannah Smith is quick to race out of her box clear the threat as Basildon build with pace on the right Courtney Clarke looking to play the ball on for Ella Tooley trying to break in behind. The game has started at a quick pace Cambridge attack Gale coming to the halfway line to receive the ball tries to get Kelley Blanchflower away into the right channel, Hinz reaching the ball first. The ball fired into the Cambridge area from the left a deep cross, Kayleigh-Anne Burt clears for a throw on the left. Katie Whitehead and Gemma Abela combine from the throw-in Whitehead sending a cross into the area claimed by Smith.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Sophie Rhodes
Despite the heat both sides are attacking the ball, pressing time to settle at a premium, Nicola Moore breaking up a Cambridge forward move the ball played out to Whitehead on the left, her pass forwards cutting open the Cambridge defence no one there to attack the ball as Fran Gough sweeps the ball away. A hopeful effort from Alex Bailess a long way out on the left side falls wide of Smith’s far post.
C&K Basildon Ladies captain, Alex Bailess
Davies with a great ball forwards causes problems for the Basildon defence as Steph Gale strong outwits her marker and getting free for a shot on the edge of the box can’t open up her body enough to curl the ball in on target as it spins out of play for a goalkick. Cambridge are beginning to build some momentum Davies able to get ahead of the attackers to put a cross in sees her initial effort blocked by Grace Gillard the ball coming back out to Amy Howlett wide on the wing a dangerous ball flighted high into the box, Hinz is able to claim it high without challenge on her goal line.
Basildon have tried it a couple of times already and this time it almost comes off as they build on the right Clarke deeper playing the ball through for Tooley running clear can reach it just before the onrushing Smith can close her down outside the area, lobbing the keeper is always a heart-stopping moment when the ball goes over the keeper, turning though Smith sees Tooley’s effort sail over her crossbar.
Kelly Bingham is reading the game well in the middle of the park, Basildon are looking to attack quickly the midfielder breaking up play setting Cambridge up for an attack of their own. The ball played forwards is retrieved by Gale on the touchline left side of the area, time to place her cross Blanchflower is making a good near post run, the ball coming into her, closely marked by Gillard the Basildon defender does brilliantly to deny the chance.
Blanchflower and Gale are looking a threat up top for Cambridge linking up well both searching for pockets of space to run into, combine on the right as they bring the ball forwards a one two on the corner of the area Gale’s cross in sliced lands in the side netting. Clarke hasn’t had much opportunity to get into the box for Basildon early on does so as the visitors have a throw in the left the cross fired into her left side a good first touch to evade her marker half a yard for a shot on target but straight down Smith’s throat.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell
Now my handwriting is abysmal at the best of times but today it’s suffering badly no sooner has one attack finished the ball is down the other end, high tempo Cambridge get a corner, Amber Cantwell over the ball a great delivery long dropping at the far post Gale I think gets something on the ball to divert it goalwards from inside the six yard box Basildon though have numbers back somehow they keep the ball out. Basildon break on the left, Whitehead with Tooley inside her have Davies outnumbered the right back reading the situation perfectly to cut it Whitehead’s intended through ball. A free-kick almost in the corner right side for Basildon the ball stood up across goal Smith goes to glove it away misses as does Clarke jumping unmarked behind her.
GOAL! 20 minutes played and Cambridge take the lead it’s Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park with a fantastic diagonal pass to send Blanchflower clear on the right shooting from the top of the area sends the ball up over Hinz to drop into the back of the net 1-0.
Cambridge United WFC captain and goalscorer, Kelley Blanchflower pictured with C&K Basildon’s Grace Gillard
Basildon press the ball Madelyn Thomas getting clear in the middle to play the ball on for Tooley in attack 25 yards from goal Abela is close by given the ball she takes on the shot a curling effort that falls wide of the goalpost. Cambridge are looking the stronger of the two sides Shephard, Cantwell and Howlett through the middle all looking to support Blanchflower and Gale in attack. Cantwell drifting into space on the right sees her cross deflect of Gillard favourably for Hinz to claim in the box.
Howlett with a diagonal ball out to Shephard on the left on with the ball swings in a cross Blanchflower attacking it far post her header downwards taking the ball wide of the upright. Bailess comes left to intercept as Blanchflower looks to run clear on the right. Cambridge press the attack Shephard’s cross almost headed in off a Basildon head as the clearance is made but an offside flag would have saved the day.
Bingham bringing the ball on looks to combine with Blanchflower and Gale, Basildon getting numbers back, as Moore clears the ball. Gillard defends well nipping in between Blanchflower and Gale on the right as they look to get into the area. A few tackles coming in but nothing malicious such is the high tempo of the contest. Howlett sliding in on Bailess one such example but little complaint from either side.
Tackles, Cambridge’s Amy Howlett slides in to win the ball from Alex Bailess
Cantwell with an ambitious effort all of 40 yards out perhaps intended for Gale left of the D the striker dummies letting the ball run on towards goal, Hinz though has time to set herself to gather cleanly inside her six yard box. Cantwell is upended inside the Basildon half top of the circle picks herself up to take a god delivery into the box Cambridge have runners one connects with the ball Blanchflower I think but the effort is over so she might say it was somebody else.
One last attack in the first half for Basildon Gillard getting down the left to support Whitehead, getting her return ball the full back sends a cross in deep towards Clarke, outside the area right of the D good control the attacker spins into the shot, her low effort seeing Smith produce an excellent save diving to her left to push the ball away from goal then scramble to smother the ball.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
A narrow lead for the lower league side at the break, Cambridge go into the dressing room 1-0 to the good following Blanchflower’s 20th minute strike. Have been the better side pressing the ball all over the pitch ad finding space to exploit. Bingham breaking up attacks regularly in the middle. Basildon have worked hard themselves high tempo looking to get the ball into their attacking players whenever they can just haven’t found the room on the the wings Cambridge have. Still with such a narrow lead Basildon are far from out of it and you feel Cambridge need another goal to press home their advantage.
Needed to retreat to the shade 2nd half or risk becoming a lobster so to the stands on the opposite side, sheltering from the rain last Sunday I suppose I shouldn’t complain. No changes for either side during the interval, Basildon to get thing’s underway attacking up the slope. The visitors making ground on the left Whitehead getting a throw in. Whitehead does well to get a cross into the area high at the far post Burt gets her head on it and knocking the ball up does well defensively as Clarke puts pressure on her getting the ball out to Shephard to launch clear.
Strength shown by Blanchflower in attack as play s stretched Basildon players caught up-field as the ball is driven forwards at pace along the ground 25 yards out robs the Basildon defence and heads for goal left side Hinz comes to close the angle sliding saves with her legs as Blanchflower unleashes a shot saved the rebound comes to Gale central, little time to adjust sends her effort over.
C&K Basildon Ladies goalkeeper, Chelsea Hinz
A free-kick for the home side as Bennett is fouled coming forwards, wide on the left Shephard rises to head the ball down top of the area, on for Gale, she can’t shake off Bailess as she aims to take a shot from the top of the area, the Basildon captain having none of it. Is a big pitch and with so much put into the contest first half more space is opening up. Clarke strong on the right side for Basildon tries to power her way forwards Bingham getting across to support Bennett and Burt.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas, looks to get away from Cambridge’s Abi Davies
Whitehead attacking left side has a throw moves into the area herself as the cross is played into her tries to drag the ball under her feet turn into a shot Cambridge defend close quarters the ball coming to Thomas at the top of the D, takes on the shot slices her effort wide across the Cambridge goal. Smith is called into action racing out to close Tooley down on the right side of her box as the attacker looks to burst in on Clarke’s forward pass, the goalkeeper sliding in to make the vital touch. Gale finds herself free on the right space to run into fires in a dangerous ball full of pace across the Basildon goal, Blanchflower attacking it but excellent defending from Moore the ball out for a corner.
Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Savannah Smith
GOAL! Cambridge get the goal they needed taking a 2-0 lead in the match 10 minutes into the 2nd the ball to be played in from the left into a crowded six yard box. Gale central gets her head on the ball turns it goalwards the ball is scrambled off the line but far from safety as players from both sides go for it the ball popping up kindly for Burt at the near post, Cambridge United’s club captain heading home from close range for her 2nd goal of the season.
The scorer of Cambridge United WFC’s 2nd goal. Kayleigh-Anne Burt
Cambridge are looking strong in attack Shephard bringing the ball on down the left plays the ball inside to Blanchflower, twice she takes on the shot, both times the Basildon defence block. A corner won taken short up the line the ball swung into the area Hinz claims it well under pressure as Burt closes her down at the near post. Davies sends the ball out to Gale moving right coming inside the attack the area Moore stands up well against her to win the ball. Cambridge are enjoying a dominant spell Basildon have let their heads drop a little.
Gough defends inside her area as Clarke coming left with the ball looks to play Whitehead on on goal. Getting forwards down the left Shephard is tackled b Rhodes before she can line up the cross. Howlett comes forwards with the ball for Cambridge into space before setting up Blanchflower for a shot inside the box coming in from the right, Hinz saving well at her near post conceding the corner, a long delivery from the right goes all the way out to the left before being played back in towards the near post Hinz running in to catch the ball low.
Basildon keep attacking when they can get the ball forwards, Clarke looking the most likely to make something happen as she and Tooley drift across to the left side of the Cambridge area as Whitehead surges forwards with the ball at her feet on the left her pass inside finding Clarke positioned just outside the area, she aims to set up Tooley for a shot, Cantwell back in the box defending intercepts launching the ball out of the ground for what must be the dozenth time. (was Cantwell every time mind you).
Cambridge make the first change of the game, Gale the player coming off, Mollie Coupar the player coming on Shephard switching to the right. Clarke coming deeper for the ball powers on through the middle moving left the pass played on for Whitehead playing off the shoulder of Davies at right back strong cuts inside and despite being challenged gets a shot away from the top of the area her low drive held by Smith. Bailess takes on a very ambitious lob from distance with Smith well off her line and backpedalling Smith isn’t sure where its going to land until it lands behind her goal.
Cambridge’s Abi Davies with C&K Basildon’s Katie Whitehead
Gillard gets her head on the ball as Howlett runs into the space vacated by Shephard on the right as she takes the ball inside before laying it off for Blanchflower who has seen Howlett’s run. A vital header by the defender. Cambridge are getting a little sloppy giving the ball away Basildon are pushing on are leaving space in behind now but can sense they might get a goal back. The visitors with a free-kick wide on the right players forwards into the box, Tooley near post the target Burt defending well for Cambridge.
Basildon hit the woodwork a fantastic strike from distance on the right side as Thomas allowed time on the ball lays the pass across the Sillitoe on the right hits it well racing in across the Cambridge goal throwing herself at it Smith is beaten, the ball cannoning off the woodwork. Basildon press the ball high up the pitch a free-kick won on the left 30 yards from goal a chance for Abela to play it in the delivery long to the far post is unchallenged runs out of play.
With Basildon attacking in force as the game nears the end Cambridge have the opportunity to hit them on the counter the ball won on the left played on for Coupar making a run into the area gets her shot up over the keeper as she comes sliding in to close her down, the attempt fired over the bar. A 2nd change for Cambridge Howlett the player coming off, on comes Gabrielle Whitehurst into the midfield.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Courtney Clarke
Clarke on the ball right side takes on the shot from all of 30 yards her effort bouncing harmlessly wide of the Cambridge goal. Clarke with energy to take on the Cambridge defence late on in the match fires a cross in from the top of the area a favourable deflection off a Cambridge defender almost sends it into the path of Whitehead clear at the far post but she cannot get a touch on the ball. One last effort to pull a goal back Basildon pushing Cambridge back Bennett is adjudged to have handled the ball (just) outside the area central inside the D the ball is placed Clarke on it goes for goal on target Smith is right behind it.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 2-0 C&K Basildon Ladies
A 2-0 win for Cambridge they advance to enter the FAWNL Cup proper C&K Basildon will now contest for the Plate. A fast paced game especially first half, everyone pressing the ball little time given in possession affected the quality somewhat but nevertheless highly entertaining. I watch the game once and can pick the tempo right up again with my notes it felt like I was writing this at a higher tempo too. Cambridge were the better side deserved the win but certainly needed the 2nd goal. Basildon never lost faith kept attacking rather than settle deep and defend at all costs credit to them, will grow as a team. Need to get a win under their belts to bolster the confidence. Cambridge
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is a relatively straight forwards affair looked good in attack players getting forwards to support Gale and Blanchflower. It was central midfield however where they had their linchpin new signing Kelly Bingham breaking up a tremendous amount of Basildon attacks which ultimately prevented the visitors getting forwards with the numbers they would have liked.
Am enjoying the start to the season another enjoyable match report to write-up. My thanks to both sides for the team details and Les Thompson and Luke Pierre of C&K Basildon Ladies for taking the time to chat before the match.
An early start to the season for a number of clubs with this years FA Women’s Cup seeing a record number of entrants meaning a Preliminary Round that featured 53 ties across the country including 6 involving teams in the East. There were a few casualties though due to the early start and it also being a Bank Holiday weekend getting a team together a challenge. Wymondham Town Ladies advancing through to First Round Qualifying without kicking a ball with there opponents Moulton Ladies withdrawing. That saved them getting a soaking however as the whole of the region was experiencing heavy rain come kick-off time Sunday afternoon.
Preliminary Round
Of the 5 ties in the Preliminary Round that were played in the East, Beccles Town Ladies were one of the lowest ranked sides making their debut in the competition, this time last season they hadn’t even kicked a competitive ball. Now they were at home taking on Essex Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies. It was to the Suffolk where Women’s Football East headed to watch the game. The promised rain arrived at kick-off and was persistent throughout. A slow start, Beccles centre backs cutting out Chelmsford’s forward passes, up the other end a shot flashing across the face of goal, was goalless at the break.
Georgia James on the attack for Chelmsford City Ladies
Chelmsford started the 2nd period lively attackers Georgia James and Lisa Overall moving around well to try and stretch the Beccles defence and the pair combined early on to hand Chelmsford the lead James on the left delivering a perfect cross to Overall making a near post run a deft header sending the ball over the keeper into the back of the net. Beccles had chances to draw level whilst their goalkeeper Chloe Pearce kept them in it at the other end including saving from the penalty spot in the closing minutes. Chelmsford getting the narrow win will face ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies at home in next weekend First Round Qualifying match. The link to the full match report can be found by clicking on the following link https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-342/
Elsewhere in the FA Women’s Cup Preliminary Round, St Ives Town Ladies were at home taking on Corby Town Ladies. Having gotten off to a great start in the league St Ives Town expected a tougher test this time around and so it proved with the game heading all the way to extra-time the sides goalless after 90 minutes. The winning goal scored in extra-time and it was St Ives Town celebrating as Katie Stancombe struck her first goal of the season to send the hosts through and another tough tie in First Round Qualifying at home against Peterborough United Ladies this coming Sunday.
It was the first competitve match of the season for both Royston Town Ladies and Hertford Town Ladies as they were drawn together in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup. Royston playing in the ERWFL Premier Division hosting Division One, Hertford the higher league side proving too strong with 3 players all opening their season with a brace, Francesca Smithers, Hayley Elderd and Joanne Rutherford on her return to Royston. Samantha Edgar also claiming a goal for Royston in a 7-1 win. Royston will now be away to Bishops Stortford Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.
A good run in the FA Women’s Cup for Newmarket Town Ladies last season dispatching 2 higher league sides before being stopped by Wymondham Town Ladies in extra-time. Newly promoted to the ERWFL themselves this season Newmarket faced a tough test in the Preliminary Round drawn at home against Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side doing the business to progress, Charlotte Gillies and Carla Penny with the goals in each half to secure the win. Cambridge City will now be at home to Riverside Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.
The last tie featuring sides from the East in the Preliminary Round was an all Essex affair with Frontiers Ladies from the Essex Women’s Premier Division hosting ERWFL Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies. The higher league side progressing with Georgia Holdaway following up her opening day brace with a hat-trick this Sunday to move her onto 5 goals already this season. Leah Cowan returning to the Brentwood side following a lengthy sell out with injury last season was also on target for her 1st goal of the season in a 4-0 win. Brentwood will now be at home against Harlow Town Ladies in First Round Qualifying on Sunday.
The draw for First Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sun 2nd September featuring sides in the East is as follows –
Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Northampton Town Ladies
The ERWFL games probably had one thing in common this Bank Holiday Sunday, it was wet! Rain sweeping in across the East for the afternoon. A shortened fixture list as a few sides were involved in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup which I shall get on with in a little while but 6 games across both the Premier and Division One to bring you first.
A perfect start to the season for Acle United Women who lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start the season and have now scored 11 without reply too. Were at home for the 2nd successive Sunday this time taking on Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies. Acle getting off to a flyer at the start of the game were 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Grace Birchall setting thing’s rolling with the opening goal on 5 minutes. Birchall adding another goal to her tally 7 minutes later, Naomi Cooper bringing up the 3rd goal on 15 minutes before being forced off with injury. A 3-0 lead for Acle at the break in terrible weather they held their lead adding a further goal in the 2nd half through defender Anna Larkins to win the game 4-0.
Colney Heath Ladies had a tough first season in the ERWFL Premier Division last season finishing bottom albeit with 3 withdrawals No wins to there name then either a much better start this time around as they begin their season having been involved in FA Women’s Cup action the weekend before with a solid home win over relegated Haringey Borough Women. Goals from Sophie Joseph and Nicola Hollick seeing Colney Heath leading 2-0 at half-time. Hollick with her 2nd of the game making it 3-0 at the start of the 2nd half. Lucy Hancock getting in on the goals scoring action to bring up 4-0. Sophie Joseph sending home a free-kick for her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. Charlotte Grogan firing in a 30 yarder to see Colney Heath win the game 6-0 and that following on from a 7-0 win in the cup the weekend before.
Harlow Town Ladies won their first ever game in the ERWFL Premier Division 5-2 at home on the opening day of the season. Were at home too this Bank Holiday Sunday taking on Bedford Ladies who had drawn their opening game of the season. The visitors having the better of the 1st half were leading 2-0 at the break with Catalina Costas scoring both of Bedford’s goals. Harlow though were to mount a comeback 2nd half to take a share of the points Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe both on target with a goal each to see the game finish 2-2.
ERWFL Division One
3 games too played in ERWFL Division One on Bank Holiday Sunday, 2 sides winning their opening two matches to lead the table. Stevenage Ladies Reserves followed an opening day 5-0 away win against Bishops Stortford Ladies with a win at home against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who themselves had also won on the opening day. With just the bare 11 available Stevenage had to work hard for the 3 points, goals from Katherine Calvert and Daniela Martucci the difference as Stevenage ran out 2-0 winners.
Also starting their season with 2 successive victories are Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on the road again followed their 2-1 win against newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies with another 3 points at Bishops Stortford Ladies. Kealy Farley on target with the opening goal to put Bowers & Pitsea ahead in the 12th minute. Bishops Stortford were back on level term 10 minutes later Rebekah Coppen with their goal. Back came Bowers & Pitsea retaking the lead with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Abbie Simmonds finding the back of the net. An own goal coming late in the half to put the visitors 3-1 up. Ebony Moore with a goal midway through the 2nd half to secure a 4-1 victory for Bowers & Pitsea.
Lawford Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL started the season with a heavy defeat to fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day of the season. Bounced back this Sunday to claim their 1st victory. At home the Essex side were taking on Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies. Goals at either end of the 1st half from Jasmine Cox and Daisy Canny seeing Lawford leading 2-0 at half-time. Histon eventually scoring what would prove to be consolation goal through Katie Webb.
August Bank Holiday weekend saw the 2nd round of league fixtures across the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and South East Division One with newly promoted sides leading the way in both divisions after Sunday’s results. A wet afternoon across the whole of the East very few if any games avoided a drenching.
Loughborough Foxes Women lead the way in the Southern Premier Division jointly with Portsmouth FC Women, making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. Last season’s Midlands Division One Champions were away to former FAWSL 2 side Watford Ladies on Sunday. Rebecca Knight heading Loughborough into the lead in the 22nd minute. Kate Lowder with a strike from the edge of the box making it 2-0 to the visitors 6 minutes later. 2-0 the lead at the break, Watford were far from out of the game chances for both sides 2nd half Leanne Bell pulled it back to 2-1 inside the final 15 minutes for Watford, just 2 minutes later though Loughborough countered to restore their 2 goal cushion, Charlotte Cooper on as a 2nd half substitute making it 3-1, a result that sees Loughborough lead a three-way tie at the top on 6 points.
Goal difference and goals scored identical after 2 matches played Portsmouth FC Women match Loughborough with 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on the South Coast were taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. The sides looked to be going in goalless at the half-time interval until Gillingham broke the deadlock scoring from a free kick late on, Maddison Chamney-Farrand with the goal. Portsmouth were quick out of the blocks 2nd half with Shannon Albuery levelling the scores with a minute played. Portsmouth then went on to take the lead in the 58th minute Katie James on the scoresheet. Jade Bradley striking from long distance to make it 3-1 to Portsmouth 5 minutes later. Daisy McLachlan netting in the final 10 minutes to seal a 4-1 victory.
Also making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season are Chichester City Ladies. Travelled west to play newly promoted Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday. Their new signings doing the damage Molly Clark having opened her account for Chichester in their 1st match of the season added a brace to her tally against Plymouth, with Helen Ogle previously with QPR Women also netting her 1st goal for the club in a 3-0 away victory.
A goalless draw for Coventry United Ladies n their opening match of the season away to Gillingham they were once again on the road again this Sunday a shorter journey to Stadium MK to play newly promoted Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Chenise Austin putting Coventry into the lead in the 20th minute. Marie Gauntlett struck to double Coventry’s advantage with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. The result made more comfortable on the hour mark with Lois Jefferies putting the ball in on the rebound after a strike from Marie Gauntlett had come back to her off the post. Coventry move up to 4th with the 3-0 win.
Cardiff City Ladies climb up to 5th in the fledgling Southern Premier Division table with a comfortable 5-0 away win against Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. A strong 1st half for the side from Wales, Kylie Nolan putting Cardiff into the lead inside the opening 2 minutes. A quick fire double from Hannah Miles midway through the 1st half further extended Cardiff’s lead with Cori Williams striking on 40 minutes to see Cardiff leading 4-0 at half-time. Alice Griffiths on target with a goal in the 2nd half to see Cardiff claim their 1st win of season.
A first win of the season to for Oxford United Women away to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday, the former FAWSL 2 side now 6th in the Southern Premier Division table as a result. All the goals coming in the 1st half Georgia Timms putting Oxford into the lead on 27 minutes. Kerry Walklett and Florence Fyfe both on target late in the half to put Oxford in full control.
FAWNL South East Division One
What are the odds of the two sides newly promoted to a league leading the way with 2 wins from 2 each at the start of the season? Long I should imagine but that is the case in FAWNL South East Division One with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies taking maximum points from their opening fixtures.
Billericay started the season with a 3-0 away win at Denham United Ladies. Were at home for the 1st time this Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies who had started with a 5-2 win themselves. The away side short of numbers going into the Bank Holiday weekend fixture just the bare 11. Billericay with a good start Samantha Pittock (who I called Puttock in the Round-Up last time out) handed the Essex side the lead scoring in the opening 5 minutes. Zoe Rushen doubling Billericay’s lead in the 10th minute. Nicole Emmings scored for Stevenage to see them trail 2-1 at the break. 2nd half Billericay took full control Jay Blackie with a brace scoring on 56 & 66 minutes making it 4-1, Pittock adding her 2nd of the game as the last 15 minutes loomed, Lucy Jones with a long range effort into the top corner sealing a 6-1 win in the 82nd minute.
Crawley Wasps Ladies also started the season with 2 wins from 2 but it was a much closer affair this time out away to Enfield Town Ladies. Both sides having started the season with a 5-1 win. For over 80 minutes the two sides had been locked at 0-0, the winning goal coming 6 minutes from time Rachel Palmer sending home a free-kick to send Crawley home with the 3 points.
Cambridge United Women climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with there 1st win of the season away to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A 2nd successive away day to the capital having earned a point away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the opening weekend. Striker Kelley Blanchflower scoring to put Cambridge into the lead late in the 1st half. New signing Becky Shephard opened her Cambridge account lobbing the ball over the keeper from the top of the box to make it 2-0 to the visitors in the 2nd half, with Blanchflower on target again for her 2nd of the game to seal a 3-0 victory.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower opened her account with a brace on Sunday
AFC Wimbledon Ladies drawing with Cambridge on the opening day also got their 1st 3 point haul of the season this Sunday, away to Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the match however Rachel Carter with the goal to put Luton 1-0 up. Sophie Manzi getting Wimbledon back on level terms midway through the 1st half, less than 10 minutes later the visitors were in front Sian Wylie finding the back of the net. 2-1 the lead to Wimbledon at the break it wasn’t until 4 minutes from time that the visitors made the 3 points secure Manzi with her 2nd goal of the match sealing the 3-1 win.
A 5-1 loss to newcomers Crawley Wasps Ladies on the opening day of the season Ipswich Town Women bounced back with a fine 2nd half performance to claim their 1st win of the season this time away to Actonians Ladies. It was the home side holding the advantage at half-time however Mariko Eagles getting the goal on the half hour for Actonians. Ipswich responding well Nicole Pannifer levelling the scores for the Suffolk side 20 minutes into the 2nd half just 3 minutes later Ipswich were ahead Zoe Cossey with the strike to make it 2-1. New signing Paige Wakefield previously with C&K Basildon Ladies struck to make it 3-1 to Ipswich with 15 minutes left. Natasha Thomas slotting home from the penalty spot to make it 4-1 to Ipswich in the 78th minute with another summer recruit Laken Ducher-Clarke also from C&K Basildon adding a goal in final moments of the game to secure a 5-1 win.
In the final game to report on from the FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies were denied all 3 points thanks to a late equaliser by visitors Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both sides starting the season with a loss Denham United were to take the lead on 10 minutes with Annie Hewitt getting the visitors goal. Norwich were quick to respond levelling the score less than 5 minutes later, striker Chelsea Garrett sending the ball home to make it 1-0. That the score at the break Norwich went on to take the lead in the game with a little over 10 minutes left to play Garrett on target for her 2nd of the game. The 3 points denied late on however a Denham came back to level the score with just 2 minutes left on the clock, Joanne Torr making it 2-2 to see both sides claim their 1st point of the season.
