One of countless matches postponed last weekend due to the snow fall King’s Lynn Town Ladies were hosting Acle United Ladies in the semi final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. Both sides playing in the ERWFL Division One North and Premier Division respectfully. The winner of the tie going on to face Wymondham Town Ladies in the Final to be played at the FDC on Friday 27th April.
Acle United started the match the stronger creating chances as they forced King’s Lynn back into their own half. It was the hosts however who opened the scoring midway through the 1st half the ball put into the back of the net by Oksana Imanalijeva. Acle United coming back into the tie to level the scores just before half-time captain Megan Todd making it 1-1. Acle United started the 2nd half as strongly as they had the 1st creating more opportunities in front of goal finally taking one in the 63rd minute midfielder Laura Holden scoring the goal to put them 2-1 ahead. Defending the lead Acle United had further chances but in the end held on for the 2-1 win to send them into their 3rd County Cup Final.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
In another game postponed from last weekend it was also semi-final action from the Norfolk Women’s League Cup on Sunday a repeat of last season’s final with Thorpe United Ladies hosting current holders Bungay Town Ladies. The sides sharing a 7 goal thriller in the finish Bungay getting off to a great start were leading the game 3-1 at half-time. Thorpe United mounted a come back in the 2nd half scoring twice more to level the scores at 3-3 before Bungay came back to win the match 4-3 to reach their 2nd successive league cup final where they will play FC Sprowston Ladies on Sunday 6th May at Norwich United’s Plantation Park. Emily Leach netting twice for Bungay with a goal each for Nicola Hazell and Samantha Walker. Rebekah Lake, Shanice Sutton and Alice Smith on target for Thorpe United.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
In Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday, Emily Watts was making a welcome return to action for bottom side Long Stratton Ladies after over a year out of the game through injury. Jumped straight to the top of their goal scoring charts too as she netted a brace in the game for the side struggling at the bottom of the league. It was opponents Wymondham Town Ladies who came away from Long Stratton with all 3 points however as the scored 5 goals to take them up from 7th to 5th in the league table.
Stalham Town Ladies 4th in the Division One table were at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies in a local derby on Sunday a close game between the side, Stalham edged the result 2-1 to claim all 3 points for their 5th league win of the season.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A piece of sad news to bring from Norfolk Women’s Division Two and that is the unfortunate folding of another club in the East, Toftwood United Ladies. A Dereham boy myself growing up it’s sad to hear. The club has struggled for numbers this season however and with the mens club also going it was on the cards. Wishing everyone involved with Toftwood all the best for the future and hope to see everyone continuing in the game somewhere in the future.
A hat-trick for Bure Valley Wildcats, Charlie Cooper on Sunday
In Norfolk Women’s Division Two there were two matches played on Sunday. Fair to say it has taken Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies young side a little while to adapt to women’s football but after a tough start to life in the league the side has grown and developed well showing great form as they won their 3rd consecutive league match this Sunday to see the consolidate 4th position in the table. At home to Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies a strong 1st half saw Bure Valley Wildcats leading 3-0 at the break before going on to score another 5 in the 2nd half to win 8-0. Charlie Cooper top scoring in the match getting a hat-trick. Kiera Brown netting a brace along with a goal for Emma Macmillan her 1st goal this season, plus an own goal.
Another young side getting to grips with life in Division Two are Gorleston Rangers Ladies were away to Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday. A 1-0 win for Gorleston Rangers in the reverse fixture back in December their 1st in the league. Winning last time out earned another point away from home this Sunday Chloe Bailey getting a brace in a 2-2 draw. Freethorpe’s goal coming from Andrea Colbrook and Kiera Squires.
Three matches to bring you from the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday. Bedford Ladies in 5th position in the table were at home to 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who were looking to close the 7 point gap to league leaders Billericay Town Ladies. Despite goals from Bronte Rapley and Bella Simmons, Cambridge City were beaten heavily with Bedford scoring 5 up the other end to take all 3 points moving them up to 4th place in the table. No details of their goalscorers.
Brentwood Town Ladies were preparing for the Essex Women’s County Cup Final taking on holders C&K Basildon Ladies at Aveley FC on Thursday night, were at home to AFC Dunstable Ladies this Sunday both in mid-table in the ERWFL Premier Division. A point a piece in the finish with the sides drawing 1-1 Georgia Holdaway with her 10th first team goal of the season for Brentwood, whilst substitute Bianca Vassell scored her 1st goal for Dunstable. The sides meet again in two weeks time in the semi-finals of the League Cup.
After suffering a number of postponements Royston Town Ladies were finally in league action this weekend just the 2nd time in 2018 have a busy few weeks coming up as they catch up on their fixtures. Were at home to bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. A spirited performance from the visitors Royston Town eventually coming out as 2-0 winners to claim all 3 points, The goals scored by Becky Shephard and Hayley Graham.
ERWFL Division One North
Two matches in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies extending their lead at the top to 4 points with victory away to bottom side Silver End United Ladies. The winning score 3-0 to the visitors striker Hannah Waters getting all three goals scoring twice in the 1st half before completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half 17 goals from 12 appearances now for Wymondham Town since joining from Lowestoft.
A reverse of last weekend fixture Histon Ladies travelled to Suffolk this Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies Development. A 3-1 win for Histon last time out, a tighter affair this time around saw defences on top as the sides contested a goalless draw to take away a share of the points.
ERWFL Division One South
A 2-1 defeat for Harlow Town Ladies last time out the 2nd placed side returned to winning ways on the road this Sunday away to Bishops Stortford Ladies to go 3 points clear of Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. A brace each for Hannah Clifford and Lily Bruno along with a goal for Abbey Dell seeing Harlow run out 5-1 winners. Heather Martin getting the goal for Bishops Stortford.
A 3rd straight defeat in the league for Little Thurrock Dynamos after a long unbeaten start to the season, hit the rocks again this Sunday away to bottom side Hertford Town Ladies. Another good result for Hertford their 3rd league win of the season lifting them off the foot of the ERWFL Division One South table a single goal enough to secure all 3 points the goal coming from Lisa Kline on her debut.
A single goal also enough to seal the win away from home for 4th placed Hutton Ladies this Sunday too in Division One South taking on Hoddesdon Tow Owls Ladies, Katie Lowen with the strike her 8th goal of the season.
Charlton Athletic Women were the only side left from outside the FAWSL left in the FA Women’s Cup reaching the last 8 a great achievement for the side leading the FAWPL Southern Division going into the quarter final on Sunday up against 14 times winners of the FA Women’s Cup, Arsenal Women at Borehamwood. Postponed from last Sunday it was a special occasion for Charlton Athletic striker, Kit Graham making her 200th appearance for the club. A big test up against Arsenal the FAWSL club taking an early lead in the tie awarded a penalty in the 4th minute, Scottish International, Kim Little stepping up to score. Arsenal created further chances throughout the 2nd half Charlton working hard in defence keeping the score down to 1-0 at half-time.
10 minutes into the 2nd half Arsenal doubled their lead Heather O’Reilly sending the ball home to make it 2-0 then 5 minutes later it was 3-0 to the hosts with Dutch International Vivianne Miedema scoring the goal. As Charlton Athletic began to tire towards the latter stages of the match Arsenal took advantage to further extend their lead in the final 5 minutes with England’s Danielle Carter and Jordan Nobbs both getting their names on the scoresheet to send Arsenal into the semi-finals. An away trip to Everton Ladies awaits on the 15th April with Chelsea Ladies at home to Manchester City Women in the other semi-final and for the 1st time in history both games will be shown live by the BBC.
FAWPL Cup
At last Coventry United Ladies got to play their semi-final in the FAWPL Cup on Sunday after several postponement due to the weather and other fixtures. A long trip up to Lancashire to play Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies the winner meeting Leicester City Women in the Final. Keeley Davies getting the goal to put Coventry United into a 1-0 half-time lead. A screamer into the top corner from Helen Dermody in the 2nd half doubling Coventry United’s lead before Saffron Jordan pulled a goal back for Blackburn Rovers with 20 minutes left. The host pushing hard for an equalising goal broke Coventry United’s resistance in stoppage time Jordan with her 2nd of the match to take the tie into extra-time. A tense half hour followed with neither side able to win the game in open play the tie heading to penalties, heartbreak for Coventry United joy for Blackburn Rovers as they won the shootout 3-2 to reach the FAWPL Cup Final.
FAWPL Southern Division
With Charlton Athletic Women in action in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was another opportunity for 2nd & 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies to move back above them at the top of the Southern Division table. Crystal Palace making to trip down south to play Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors celebrating an early goal and a fabulous milestone too for Crystal Palace’s Gemma Bryan as she scored her 100th goal for the club.
Ellie Bailes also on target in the 1st half to make it 2-0 to Crystal Palace who were awarded a penalty as the game closed in on the half hour, Bryan stepping up to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 the advantage at half-time Crystal Palace made sure of the win extending their lead with 20 minutes left, Bryan going on to complete a hat-trick taking Crystal Palace back to the top of the Southern Division table.
C&K Basildon Ladies were also on the road travelling to Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies the 3rd placed side taking the lead with Paige Wakefield on target. 1-0 became 2-0 with Therese Addison putting the ball past the keeper. Cardiff City getting it back to 2-1 before the half-time whistle. A diving header from Angela Addison restored Basildon’s 2 goal lead. Again Cardiff City pulled a goal back to make it 3-2. Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match to make it 4-2 and see Basildon win all 3 points taking them into 2nd position in the table. Sophie Thomas and Cori Williams scoring the goals for Cardiff City.
At home in the league for the 1st time since November, Chichester City Ladies were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division this Sunday. The sides going in all square at the break a single goal was enough to secure all 3 points the goal for the hosts with Jess Lewry sending the ball into the back of the net on the hour to put Chichester City in front and seal the win.
Fourth placed Lewes FC Women were also finally back in league action after cup competitions had kept them busy since the end of November. At home were taking on Queens Park Rangers this Sunday. Chances not taken it looked as though the sides would be going in level at the break, Lewes breaking the deadlock with a minute of the first half left to play, Rebecca Carter with her 11th goal of the season. Danielle Lane doubling Lewes lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. The result made comfortable midway through the 2nd half as Sarah Kempson put the ball home to make it 3-0.
West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they extend their unbeaten run to 9 games, a fourth straight win this Sunday away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. A narrow lead for the visitors at half-time Leanna Mabey with the goal. A blistering start to the 2nd half with youngster Kelly Wealthall netting with 22 seconds after kick-off to make it 2-0. Ellie Zoefpl scoring on 65 minutes to extend the lead to 3-0. Molly Clark then scoring to make it 4-0 her first goal for West Ham United. Weathall getting her 2nd of the game for a 5-0 lead with Zoefpl also getting her 2nd of the game in the final minute to see West Ham United win 6-0.
FAWPL South East Division One
Plenty of action too this Sunday in FAWPL South East Division One. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were a massive 16 points clear at the top of the table as they travelled to rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on Sunday the 4th placed side with plenty of games in hand could yet catch AFC Wimbledon if they could claim maximum points in the run in. Women’s Football East was there to see all the action and the full match report can be found under this post. A competitive and tense affair between two committed sides had a derby feel to the match neither wanting to give anything away led to few opportunities being created in the final third the sides going in all square at 0-0 at half time at Newport Pagnell FC.
Milton Keynes, Alice Hughes with AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield
The deadlock broken early in the 2nd half the high tempo pace of the 1st half continuing Milton Keynes broke the ball out to striker Heather McDonnell moving wide left good hold-up play drawing players towards her the cross whipped into the box found Kim Farrow running in on goal her header taking the ball wide of the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0 a goal on her debut for the club. Milton Keynes working hard at the back and midfield to keep AFC Wimbledon at bay the visitors pushing for an equaliser striker Caroline Bisson coming closest putting her header just wide of the near post. Milton Keynes winning the game 1-0 move up into 3rd position behind Leyton Orient WFC. AFC Wimbledon despite the set back remain 14 points clear at the top of the table.
Leyton Orient WFC took all 3 points ta home on Sunday to climb above Ipswich Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Were hosting Norfolk side, Norwich City Ladies. Leyton Orient getting off to a fantastic start going 1-0 up inside the 1st minute top scorer Sophie Le Marchand on target. 10 minutes later Leyton Orient were presented with an opportunity to double their lead from the penalty spot Le Marchand stepping up to put the ball into the back of the net for 2-0. Le Marchand then completed a 1st half hat-trick with 4 minutes left to play to take her onto 22 goals for the season and see Leyton Orient leading 3-0. Norwich City pulled a goal back 7 minutes into the 2nd half Millie Daviss scoring to make it 3-1. On the hour Hayley Barton got on the scoresheet for Leyton Orient to see them lead 4-1 and go on to claim all 3 points.
It was 5th versus 6th as Luton Town Ladies travelled to Cambridge United WFC on Sunday 2 points between the sides. Luton Town creating several chances in the first half but unable to breach the Cambridge United defence. The hosts continued to defend well 2nd half, going in front with Amber Cantwell scoring the goal it was enough for Cambridge United to win the match and as a result move above Luton Town into 5th position in the table.
The battle in mid-table looks incredibly close with Stevenage Ladies continuing their recent good form to close the gap to 6th placed Luton Town to just 2 points. Fresh from winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Stevenage were on the road at the weekend taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. Leah Littlechild top scoring in the game got 4 more goals to her name taking her onto 14 for the season. Not quite enough to make her top scorer but amongst the contenders, Amy Makewell was also on target for a goal to take her also onto 14 but a brace from captain Donna McGuigan keeps her nose just in front with 15 so far this season. Goals to for midfielders, Chloe Gunn and Amy Josland along with an own goal to see Stevenage win 10-2. Shanice Nourrice and Jonea Peter on target with a goal each for Haringey.
Actonians Ladies were back in league action for the 1st time in a month at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. A goal from Alessandra Barreca late in the 1st half seeing Actonians leading 1-0 at the break. A close contest it wasn’t till the final 10 minutes before Actonians made their lead more secure Barreca on target for her 2nd went on to complete her hat-trick 3 minutes into stoppage time scoring from the penalty spot to take her onto 17 goals for the season.
The football action this Sunday afternoon on Women’s Football East comes from FAWPL South East Division One a big game too, with league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelling to take on 4th placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.
This is my first look at AFC Wimbledon Ladies since they were promoted to the FAWPL two season’s ago. Had a strong debut season playing in South East Division One finishing in 3rd position. Building on that have had a very strong second season at this level leading the table by a massive 16 points with 4 league matches to play. Are within touching distance of clinching the title. Getting their league games played whilst their closest rivals lost fixtures through postponements and cup runs have played more than else in the top half of the table losing just 2 of their 18 league games played so far.
Ipswich Town Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC were both in the title hunt for a good period but have both fallen away. Just one side left that can potentially catch the league leaders now, rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in 4th place in the table have plenty of league games left to play 9 in total and should they claim maximum points in all of those matches they can catch AFC Wimbledon would need to overhaul a +32 goal difference too.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have been amongst the top sides in the league for a number of season’s finishing in the top 3 since the FAWPL took over the old South East Combination Leagues 4 season’s ago. One of the strongest sides in the league again this season a tall order to chase down AFC Wimbledon however well placed just 2 points behind 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies with 3 games in hand runner’s up spot is definitely there for the taking and with the upcoming changes to the women’s top tiers this summer league placed could yet be a crucial factor of deciding where a side may be come the start of next season. Ahead of the match Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have announced two signings to bolster the squad, striker Leah Cudone returning to the club after spells with Watford Ladies and Leicester City Ladies and Kim Farrow who joins from Luton Town Ladies.
Newport Pagnell FC the venue for today’s match the home ground for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies several training pitches around the main ground. A clubhouse and bar beside it. Two small seated stands on either side of the wide pitch. The weather pleasant and sunny for a change at the start of spring March ending far better than it started. A few clouds around but no rain forecast.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies starting XI – Sophie Shults, Leanna Doyle (C), Louise Naylor, Sasha Newsome, Vicky Holland, Charley Clarke, Alice Hughes, Charly Wright, Anna Loftus, Heather McDonnell & Kim Farrow. Subs – Zoe Boote, Dawn Mallett, Leah Cudone, Laura Mills & Mollie Burgess.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting XI – Holly Wright, Sian Wylie, Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins, Jess Trimnell (C), Hannah Billingham, Becky Mclaren-Johnson, Rebecca Sargeant, Laura Quinn-Low, Katie Stanley, Jenny Banfield & Caroline Bisson. Subs – Abbie Measures, Hannah Searle, Kelly-Jade Whelan, Georgia Heasman & Sarah Wentworth.
A slightly delayed kick-off due to one of the officials arriving late it’s Milton Keynes all in white to get the 1st half underway with Wimbledon lined up opposite wearing an all dark blue kit with a splash of yellow. A fast start to the game Milton Keynes playing the ball out to their wide players testing Wimbledon down the flanks both sides moving in quickly to close the ball down little time is going to be afforded on the ball. Milton Keynes captain Leanna Doyle finds space on the right side picked out by Vicky Holland at the back going on her attempted cross is blocked by Wimbledon’s Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins.
Leanna Doyle, Milton Keynes captain
Alice Hughes gets onto the ball centrally inside the Wimbledon half not a lot room tries the through ball for Heather McDonnell getting in behind, Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell sticking her leg out to intercept the ball. Wimbledon break down the right wing Katie Stanley with help from Caroline Bisson a one two before Stanley looks to play the ball on into the area, Sasha Newsome getting onto the ball to cut out the pass for Milton Keynes.
Hoesli-Atkins comes forwards down the left to support Laura Quinn-Low linking up the pair get down into the corner the full back playing the ball into Quinn-Low who chests down well attempts to hook the ball over her shoulder into the area beyond, Milton Keynes can see the ball run out of play. A high tempo to start the match the opening 10 minutes have been busy neither sides has tested the opposing goalkeeper however a determination from both sides not to let either try with one time allowed on the ball the final pass isn’t finding it’s target.
Newsome is there to intercept the ball at the back as Rebecca Sargeant through the middle tries to side the ball through for Quinn-Low looking to spring the offside trap coming inside. Doyle with the ball at her feet on the right goes forwards, both attackers, McDonnell and Kim Farrow making her Milton Keynes debut come across to support Doyle inside to McDonnell top of the area right side on for Farrow her fierce ball into towards goal cut out by Wimbledon comes back out to Doyle sends a looping ball back in towards goal a difficult one for Wimbledon goalkeeper Holly Wright to deal with back on her line keeps her eye in the ball scooping it out of the air and claims the bouncing ball before anyone can pounce.
A free-kick for Wimbledon on half-way players go forwards from the back the ball delivered in towards the top of the area, Milton Keynes don’t get it cleared Hoesli-Atkins running onto the ball sends a high ball back into the area. Newsome under it heads the ball behind to concede the 1st corner of the match, an inswinging delivery Milton Keynes win and clear the ball threaten to break the ball played up to the attackers, McDonnell looking to get away in behind as Farrow opens up her body to slide the pass into her run, the Wimbledon defence quick to shut the door on her.
AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield
The centre backs for both sides aren’t giving anything away as both sides try their luck through the middle, Becky Mclaren-Johnson on for Jenny Banfield, Caroline Bisson making the forward run getting into the box, Newsome goes with her and regains possession of the ball. Play turned around quickly Wimbledon breaking up a Milton Keynes attack the ball played long with Bisson looking to get in behind, Newsome 20 yards out gets a glancing header on the ball not enough to prevent it reaching the area, Bisson lively after it, Louise Naylor across on the cover from full-back defends well to get the ball back to her goalkeeper, Sophie Shults.
Milton Keynes, Louise Naylor
A corner for Wimbledon on the right a good delivery from Sian Wylie coming in near post, Shults not getting hold of the ball inside her six yard box, Newsome there behind her to hook the ball high out of the area. Charley Clarke winning the ball for Milton Keynes on for Hughes, Farrow ahead of her 25 yards out, very congested through the middle no way through, Hanna Billingham winning the tackle for Wimbledon the counter attack bringing a corner, a cluster of Wimbledon players gathered at the top of the area the delivery in towards them Milton Keynes with the knock down, Stanley onto the ball 25 yards out sends a low ball racing in towards goal, Shults back on her line can gather safely.
Trimnell with the long ball out from defence picks out Stanley on the move down the right wing Naylor goes with her a slight deflection from the defender as she attempts to stop the cross the ball into the side netting, from the resulting corner on the right the ball comes to Trimnell positioned at the top of the area good head work to get the ball in on goal, Newsome once again with the interception to head the ball away from her goal.
AFC Wimbledon’s Laura Quinn-Low
A break in play as Wimbledon’s Sargeant is clattered into. A chance for everyone to rest no let up in the tempo the game has a derby feel to it. The midfielder is okay to continue play resuming Milton Keynes get forwards on the right, Farrow on the ball running on McDonnell in an offside position catches the Wimbledon defence static as Farrow goes on herself in behind top of the area fires her strike over the bar.
Loftus is shoved over in a dangerous position outside the Wimbledon area as she brings the ball inside from the right, Charly Wright on the set-piece 25 yards out, goes for goal getting the high ball up towards goal dips late but not enough to creep under the crossbar over Wright scrambling across her goal. Quinn-Low with Hoesli-Atkins get the ball down into the left corner. Mclaren-Johnson coming across to receive the ball her cross into the area cut out by Holland. Wimbledon win a corner right side the ball played into towards the top of the area Quinn-Low with the header this time can’t direct on target.
Milton Keynes, Charly Wright sees her effort drop over the crossbar
Charley Clarke is booked as she brings Quinn-Low down in the centre circle. The free-kick delivered into the six yard box, Bisson right on top of the goalkeeper who manages to knock the ball down to the floor, Naylor with the instinctive clearance sending the ball over her own goal. Pinball at times such is the time anyone is being given on the ball, scrappy at times neither side letting the other settle as the referee brings the opening half to a close.
Half-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 0-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies
A fast pace to the first half plenty of quality players on show however no-one has been afforded any time play squeezed passes rushed and not finding their mark, few chances created and neither goalkeeper with a definitive save to make.
Wimbledon make a change at half-time Sargeant who has been on the receiving end of a couple of knocks in the 1st half replaced by Hannah Searle in midfield. Right from the off the temp of the game resumes Clarke in to win the ball off Banfield. Billingham slides in to intercept as Farrow looks to get in behind. Wylie clearing the ball inside the area as Milton Keynes play the cross in from the right.
Wimbledon with a throw-in deep on the right, the ball lost Milton Keynes launch a rapid counter attack the ball played up to McDonnell midway inside the Wimbledon half good hold-up play allowing teammates to get forwards Hughes central given the ball helps it on for Loftus breaking away into the right channel into the area under pressure from the Wimbledon defence fires her shot over the crossbar.
GOAL! The stalemate is broken early in the 2nd half another rapid counter attack from Milton Keynes the ball played out to McDonnell wide left deeper this time players are drawn across as support arrives the cross whipped into the area, Farrow with the run gets her head on the ball 8 yards out and sends it past the keeper to score on her debut 1-0.
Milton Keynes, Kim Farrow
Milton Keynes look to press the advantage get bodies forwards Clarke through the middle plays the ball over the top for Farrow inside the area the ball spinning as it lands takes it away from the attacker allowing the advancing Wright to get her gloves firmly around the ball. Changes for both sides Kelly-Jade Whelan on for Quinn-Low, McDonnell comes off for Milton Keynes Leah Cudone coming on.
A corner for Milton Keynes on the left side a good delivery from Wright the ball whipped in across the six yard box, Newsome with a glancing header the ball out the opposite side another corner signalled Wright goes across to the right the ball coming in to the six yard box once again headed down blocked on the line a scramble before Wright lays claim to the ball. Naylor gets her body in the way to block as Wylie gets forwards to cross for Wimbledon.
AFC Wimbledon captain, Jess Trimnell slides in to tackle, Milton Keynes Charly Wright
Stanley with the ball on the left for Wimbledon fired in across the top of the area good control from Banfield back to goal pushes the ball out to Searle before drifting right to receive the return pass gets a shot away from 20 yards out Shults is well placed inside her six yard box to gather cleanly. Loftus comes off for Milton Keynes, with Dawn Mallett coming on. Shults comes out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball as Bisson tries to get past Holland.
Hannah Searle after the ball for AFC Wimbledon
The high tempo to the match is seeing a few tired legs out there a little bit of space starting to show. Milton Keynes make their final change, Laura Mills coming on in attack to replace Farrow. Cudone is caught offside as Mallett intercepts a Wimbledon goalkick. An extra injection of pace for Milton Keynes with the introduction of Mills getting the ball at her feet on the right to the byline her cross cut back into the six yard box Cudone running onto it puts her head into the path of the ball, straight into the gloves of Wright.
Another break in play due to injury a painful one for Mclaren-Johnson this time her ankle feeling the full force. The referee issuing a final warning to Clarke. 20 minutes left in the match Mclaren-Johnson strapped up is able to continue. Bisson moves to the right to receive the ball support from Wylie getting forwards down the right wing her cross in headed out of the area comes back to Bisson, hits a lofted ball back in towards goal over hits the stantion behind the goal. A final change for Wimbledon, Georgia Heasman coming on to replace Banfield.
AFC Wimbledon’s, Becky Mclaren-Johnson
A corner right side for Milton Keynes, Wright to play the ball in towards the top of the area, Newsome deeper this time looks to get onto the ball, Clarke is there too ends up tackling her own player. A shot from Wimbledon from outside the box is cut out immediately protests are made for handball the calls ignored by the officials. Pressing late on in the match Wimbledon are far from out of the game counter attacking down the right Stanley plays the pass into Whelan outside the area getting it back on the overlap fires the cross in towards the near post Bisson arriving puts her header narrowly wide of the post Wimbledon’s best chance of the match.
AFC Wimbledon’s, Caroline Bisson
Whelan in the middle again for Wimbledon on the ball out for Stanley on the left puts a high ball into the area towards the far post a difficult one for Shults to deal with does well to pluck the ball down before her defence scramble it away. Cudone is booked late on for kicking the ball away as Milton Keynes counter. With Wimbledon committing more forwards in the closing stages of the match they risk being hit on the counter, the ball long up to Cudone the striker leaps to head the ball on.
Leah Cudone heads the ball on for Milton Keynes
Hughes sliding in wins the ball sending it on for Cudone her pass out to Mills on the right her cross into the box early, Wright does well to glove the ball away from Cudone racing in at her far post. The game moves into stoppage time. Heasman with support from Searle in the middle looks to release Bisson in behind top of the Milton Keynes area the flag going up against her. Wimbledon with the last attack Bisson finding space on the right help from Wylie a high ball in towards goal Shults deals with the difficult ball as the final whistle goes and Milton Keynes win the match 1-0.
Full time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 1-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Plenty of energy expended in that match from both sides, played at a fast tempo throughout, time on the ball at a premium, little space to be found a committed contest which was only ever going to see a handful of goal scoring chances created. Milton Keynes getting the lead early in the 2nd half, battled to keep it and claim the 3 points. Move into 3 place in the league as a result a point behind Leyton Orient WFC who beat Norwich City 4-1 this afternoon. 4 games in hand on the 2nd placed side however 5 on Wimbledon who maintain a healthy 14 point lead despite suffering there 3rd loss of the season. Still on course to win the title. Milton Keynes have alot of games to fit in between now and the end of the season come thick and fast now away to Stevenage Ladies on Wednesday evening.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Alot of battling performances out there for both sides this afternoon, so once again it’s a difficult one choosing today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, for the 2nd game in a row however it goes to a player who has collected one before, Milton Keynes Sasha Newsome strong at the back, with some good interceptions and reading of the game, timing of her tackles and not giving the Wimbledon attack any opportunity to get in behind.
Nice to watch a game in the sunshine has been a long winter and hopefully April with bring more of the same. An entertaining match two committed sides on display who wanted to give nothing away. My thanks as always to both sides for helping me out with the teams.
Here we are once again with another shortened version of this weekends Round-Up with the weather again playing havoc with the fixture lists another cold burst depositing snow across the country over the weekend saw just 11 matches survive across the East. The majority of those in Cambridgeshire too. Adds to the problem of an already congested fixture list with games piling up towards the end of the season. March has not been kind to football so far in 2018. Of those games that did get played it was thanks to the dedication and hard work of the host team in most cases to get their pitch in a playable state and an appreciative thanks to all those put so much in to do so. A total wipe-out of fixtures the the FAWPL this weeks action begins with the ERWFL.
ERWFL Division One North
One game in the ERWFL Division One North this Sunday in Cambridgeshire, Histon Ladies have seen a good proportion of their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium called off due to weather conditions but not this time around as they took on opponents, Ipswich Town Ladies Development. The hosts getting their noses in front on 10 minutes with Abi Davies scoring her 9th goal of the season. Ipswich Town getting back on level term with 10 minutes of the 1st half left the sides drawing 1-1 at the break. Histon retook the lead with 20 minutes left to play Davies getting her 2nd of the match, the 3 points made secure with Ipswich Town conceding a penalty as the game closed on the final 10 minutes captain Sophie Lanham scoring from the spot.
ERWFL Division One South
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies fresh from playing in their 1st ever Hertfordshire County Cup final last Sunday were hosting 2nd placed side Harlow Town Ladies in the only match to beat the weather in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday. The hard work by Hoddesdon to get their pitch playable paying off as they picked up a great result beating Harlow 2-1 to record their 3rd league win of the season. The goals scored by Hannah Kelly and Sian Owens.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
Just one game surviving in Norfolk on Sunday for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup the competition down to the last 4. Sprowston Ladies leading Division One certainly the underdogs as they played hosted to Wymondham Town Ladies currently leading ERWFL Division One North. Sprowston making the decision early on Sunday to switch the match to the FDC’s Open Academy all weather pitch. Wymondham have a strong attack with plenty of goalscorers in their side, aren’t too many games where the sides top scorer, Laura Nicholls isn’t on the scoresheet and not so this Sunday as she scored in the 11th minute to put Wymondham into the lead. Nicholls involved in the next two Wymondham goals too setting up Mollie O’Callaghan to make it 2-0 in the 22nd minute, with striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 3-0 at half-time.
Two goals early in the 2nd half putting Wymondham in full control of the tie with Alice Ladbrooke and Waters with her 2nd of the game making it 5-0. The pair both getting on the scoresheet again as the game entered the final 15 minutes Ladbrooke making it 6-0 with Waters going on to claim a hat-trick. A 2nd successive County Cup Final appearance for Wymondham they will play either King’s Lynn Town Ladies or Acle United Ladies who saw their match at The Walks postponed.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
It was also County Cup semi-final weekend in Cambridgeshire both games surviving the snow that had blowed in, holders Cambridge United WFC from FAWPL South East Division One hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Newmarket Town Ladies. A three league gap between the sides, Newmarket very much the underdogs going onto the game but have tested themselves well against higher league opposition this season and as the 1st half drew to a close it looked as though the sides would go in level at the break. Cambridge getting a goal to put them 1-0 up in the 41st minute courtesy of striker, Lauren Gibson. A more comfortable lead for the hosts early into the 2nd half two quick goals seeing the lead increased to 3-0 with Kelley Blanchflower and Faith Hewitt firing the ball into the back of the net in the 47th and 49th minutes respectfully. That the final score as Cambridge United reach another Invitation Cup Final.
It will be a repeat of last season’s final pair too as Cambridge City Ladies also booked their final berth this Sunday, the side currently 2nd in ERWFL Premier Division hosting another side from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, St Ives Town Ladies. A tighter scoreline this one with just a single goal enough to settle the semi-final. Charlotte Gillies getting the winning goal for Cambridge City.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
Two games from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development close the gap to 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies to just a single point after they came back from 1-0 down to win 2-1 their 5th successive win in league and cup. At home on Sunday taking on 5th placed March Town United Ladies. Shannon Shaw with her 20th goal of the season putting March Town into the lead. 1-0 up at half-time Cambridge City came back to win the game and claim all 3 points. Eline Sorbye scoring both there goals in the 2-1 win her first this season.
Park Ladies are at last celebrating this season and will get tagged in a Round-Up for the 1st time in close to two season’s after they won their 1st ever match in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this weekend. Has been a tough period for the club after they raced to promotion in their 1st season. A difficult period to follow as results went against them early on their 1st season in the Premiership players then leaving the club threatened it’s very existence for a little while but the club came through these tough times again this season results have not been with them bottom of the table without a point that finally changed this Sunday.
Park were at home to the side immediately above them, Cambridge University Women who themselves are having a tough season after being amongst the forerunners in the Premiership in recent seasons. Amy Newell leads the line for Park and she was on target for 5 goals on Sunday taking her onto 14 for the season as Park clinched their 1st 3 point haul with an 8-2 victory taking them to within a point of Cambridge University Women. Chantelle Abraham, Jenna Brown also scoring their 1st goals for Park with Sian Holcroft also to target. A victory that will do wonders for morale.
Cambridge Women’s Division One Cup
Three more group matches from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup this Sunday. In Group C, Wisbech Town Ladies made it 3 wins from 3 to clinch top spot in the group and advance to the knock stage of the competition. Were at home to Orton Rangers Ladies. Josie Turner top scoring in the match getting 4 goals to her name for Wisbech Town. Top scorers Sophie Swinden also getting a hat-trick the the match with both Faye Kowalewsky and Chloe Riches getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
In Group D, Riverside Ladies had already clinched top spot winning all 3 of their matches. This Sunday Ketton Ladies were away in their final group game taking on Spalding United Ladies. A brace each for Claire Lawrenson and Emma Ward plus a goal for top scorer Fran Kavanagh seeing Ketton finish 2nd with a 5-1 win.
In Group A, Isleham United Ladies were away to Burwell Tigers this Sunday. A brace from Amy Ellis along with a goal apiece for Lily Turner and Shona Kelly securing a 4-1 win. Lauren Rouse on target for Burwell Tiger’s goal. The other group match between Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds and Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves was called off, so it remains all to play for in the group.
Essex Women’s Division One
Also a total wipe-out of the fixture list in Essex on Sunday with just one league match surviving across the two divisions. In Essex Women’s Division One 4th placed Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves close the gap up to the top 3 to just 2 points with a comfortable result at home to Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway on target for a hat-trick in the match top scoring for Brentwood, there was a brace each for Kirstie Jackson and Emma Mackie with Paida Dedza and Chloe Wilkinson both getting a goal each in a 9-2 win. Eleasha Reeves and captain Isabelle Wallings getting the goals for Rayleigh Town Ladies.
Alot of fixtures across all leagues yet to squeeze in as we approach the last weekend of March, fingers crossed for a dry April and May.
The first Cup Final played in the East this Sunday the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup at The County Ground, Letchworth. Women’s Football East was there too to watch Stevenage Ladies the current holders playing in their 4th successive county cup final looking to retain the trophy for the first time up against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who had reached the final of the competition for the 1st time.
Two leagues between the sides Stevenage Ladies playing in the FAWPL South East Division One starting the game well and opened the scoring in the 16th minute Amy Makewell sending a low drive from outside the box into the bottom corner of the net. Found nearly the same spot again soon after to make it 2-0 before midfielder Chloe Gunn broke forwards to make it 3-0 then added another herself from a well taken free-kick 25 yards from goal.
Introduced late in the 1st half substitute Ashleigh Deacon scored a quickfire brace to extend Stevenage’s lead before Makewell when on to complete her hat-trick. Leah Littlechild receiving the ball from Nicole Emmings to score Stevenage’s 8th goal to successfully retain the County Cup for the 1st time.
The link to the full match report on the website can be found below:-
Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Winners – Stevenage Ladies
Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup
The first of the semi-final of this years Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup took place this Sunday with St Albans Ladies leading Division one at home to fellow league side Sharnbrook WFC. A great start for the hosts going 2-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes with Michaela Johnson and Katie Grehan on target. Sharnbrook pulling a goal back, St Albans extending their lead on the half hour with a goal from Sophie Lawrence. Their lead at half-time 4-1 with Nicola Dark scoring late in the 1st half.
Sharnbrook getting it back to 4-2 early in the 2nd half. Eleanor Lovelock restoring St Albans 3 goal lead in the 57th minute. Into the final 10 minutes Ellen Slater running through to score St Albans 6th goal. Sharnbrook adding another goal at the death, time for St Albans to reply, Grehan with her 2nd of the game in stoppage time. 7-3 the final score as St Albans celebrate reaching this season’s League Cup Final the double on!
Houghton Athletic Ladies the current holders of the Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup meet Northwood Ladies at home this coming Sunday in the 2nd semi-final.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division One
Two matches in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One this Sunday. 3rd placed Sherrardswood Ladies close the gap to 2nd placed Northwood Ladies to just 2 points still with 2 games in hand as they secured all 3 points at home to Garston Ladies this Sunday. Goals in the 2nd half from Laurie Marris and Laura Cousins securing a 2-1 victory for the hosts.
Houghton Athletic Ladies move up from 6th to 4th in the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One table with a 2-1 home win against Flitwick Ladies on Sunday. Scoring all 3 of the goals in the match and own goal cancelled out with goals for Shakeela Hussain and Eireann O’Donoghue her 1st goal for Houghton Athletic.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two
One match played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two this Sunday. Leaders Garston Ladies 2nd XI were at home taking on Evergreen Eagles. Top scorer Lauren Berryman moved onto 21 goals for the season as she netted a brace in the match with Maxine Hotz also finding the back of the net in a 3-1 victory to move Garston into a 5 point lead at the top of the table. Amber Charlton scoring the goal for Evergreen Eagles.
Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three
One match also in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three with Evergreen Ladies at home to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets. Both sides level on points on 13 in 5th and 4th respectfully going into the match. A brace from Natalie Maher enough to secure all 3 points for Evergreen Ladies in a 2-1 win that takes them 3 points clear into 4th spot in the table.
Two matches played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday and it’s a 4th successive draw for league leaders East Bergholt United Ladies as they were held away from home against the other unbeaten side in the league Walsham Le Willows Ladies. Millie Wilding having put East Bergholt United into a 1-0 half-time lead, Walsham Le Willows coming back to level the scores n the 2nd half with Katie Shorter getting the goal. In 5th spot Walsham Le Willows have 17 points 11 points behind the leaders but having played just 7 league games have plenty of points left to play for yet.
Bacton United Ladies 2nd in the Suffolk Women’s Division table close the gap to leaders East Bergholt United to just a single point as they continued their good run winning 4 of their last 5 league matches. Another big result too at home to Ipswich Athletic Youth Ladies on Sunday. Lois Balfour scoring 5 goals in the match. Francesca Rainbird also getting a hat-trick with Rebecca White claiming a brace in a 10-0 win. Both Bacton United and East Bergholt United have played 12 matches.
The Fulbourn Recreation Ground played host to the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup semi-finals this weekend. Newmarket Town Ladies were playing Cambridge University Women who had knocked out Premiership leaders Netherton United Ladies earlier in the competition. Newmarket Town started well taking an early lead in the match Abbi Griffin scoring in the 6th minute, further chances followed the lead doubled in the 26th minute Jordanne Sillitoe on target to make it 2-0, a 3rd goal quickly following Amanda Stacey heading home from a corner kick. A good first half for Newmarket another goal late in the half from Sillitoe putting them in complete control of the semi-final. Cambridge University pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half capitalising on a mistake at the back. 4-1 the score right up until the final minute of the match Chloe Slater making it 5-1 to see Newmarket into the League Cup Final.
The other League Cup semi-final was again an all Premiership tie with ICA Sports Ladies taking on St Ives Town Ladies who would have started as slight favourites 2nd in the league with just one defeat. ICA Sports Ladies however have picked up some good results themselves this season and have improved well as the season has gone on. A closer tie a single goal enough to win the game coming in the second half. Lorna Hart the goalscorer as ICA Sports Ladies beat St Ives Town 1-0 to reach the League Cup Final.
The League Cup Final between ICA Sports Ladies & Newmarket Town Ladies scheduled to be played on Wednesday 2nd May with a 7:30pm kick-off and Ely City FC.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
3 games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday with another double header taking place to ease fixture congestion. The local derby between March Town United Ladies and Park Ladies. 6 points up for grabs March Town took full advantage beating their local rivals twice 3-1 in both matches the 6 point haul enough to move them up a place in the table into 5th spot. Charley Miller, Adele Munday and Shannon Shaw getting the goals in one of March Town’s 3-1 victories. Shaw on target again in the other match grabbing herself a brace with Ella Nutter also getting her name on the scoresheet.
Cambridge City Ladies Development were involved in a double header with Park 3 weeks ago picking up all 6 points themselves this Sunday they were hosting the Premiership leaders, Netherton United Ladies. A brace from midfielder Rachel Pearce and with a goal each for Molly White and Yasmin Crow seeing Cambridge City earn the 3 points as they ran out 4-0 winners. A 3rd defeat of the season now for Netherton United Ladies after a great start to the season, encouraging for 2nd and 3rd placed St Ives Town Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies who both have games in hand came both overhaul Netherton United if they win those matches.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
One outstanding quarter final left to play in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup an all Championship South tie with Isleham United Ladies hosting Cambridge Rangers on Sunday. And it’s the hosts that progress to the last 4 of the competition with a 4-1 victory. A brace for Vicky Beeton along with goals for Louise Harwood and Nicole Bailey setting up a semi-final against fellow Championship South side, Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
Two matches from the Group stage of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Cup this Sunday both in Group C. Wisbech Town Ladies going top of the 4 team table with their 2nd win in the competition, at home playing Hungate Rovers Ladies, goals from Faye Kowalewsky and Annie Rooks seeing them win the match 2-1. A positive result in their final match against Orton Rangers Ladies with ensure Wisbech Town top the group and advance to the knockout stage of the competition.
Orton Rangers Ladies themselves were hosting Wisbech St Mary Ladies on Sunday in Group C the visitors having just 10 players available were held to a goalless score at half-time before going on to take control of the game in the 2nd half Amy Magnus getting herself a hat-trick, with a goal each for Ellena Bennington and Abi Roach-Smith in a 5-0 win.
Essex suffered the most with the weather this Sunday with the fixture list heavily hit by the recent wet weather seeing several pitches waterlogged with just 4 matches getting played.
More sad news from Essex too as Hutton Ladies Reserves withdraw from the Essex Women’s Premier Division. Have been struggling for numbers recently and unfortunately has been on the cards for a little while. Wishing everyone involved with the side all the best for the future. The withdrawal seeing so adjustment to the league table.
Two matches were played in the Premier Division with Chigwell Ladies now bottom of the table heavily beaten away to Chelmsford City Ladies on Sunday. Mia Brisley top scoring in the game getting a hat-trick with both Rosie Coe and Laura Kendle netting a brace each with five more players claiming a goal each, Lisa Overall, Niki Medici, Megan Bliss, Gaby Freedman and Shannon Hughes. 13-0 the final score a big win lifts Chelmsford City back up into 4th in the Premier Division table.
Eastern Avenue in 7th place in the Premier Division were also in action this Sunday at home taking on Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Teliscia Linton scoring both goals for Eastern Avenue in a 2-0 victory.
Essex Women’s Division One
Two fixtures surviving in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday. Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves were away to Walden Ladies. Clair Andrews and Jessica Clay both scoring for Walden, it was Brentwood Town who came away with the 3 points, Carla Rose getting on the scoresheet for two goals, with Clarista Wigley and Chloe Wilkinson both on target in a 4-2 win that moves Brentwood Town back above Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies up to 4th in the Division One table.
Billericay Town Ladies Reserves were at home hosting Benfleet Villa Ladies on Sunday, the visitors off the bottom of the Division One table having been awarded 6 points against Waltham Forest Ladies earlier in the season. Taking on Billericay this Sunday the sides went in level at the break drawing 1-1. Billericay going on to win the match in the 2nd half scoring twice to win 3-1. Lois Curson, Cassandra Piejko and Madeline Reeves with their goals.
A few waterlogged pitches around Norfolk this weekend affecting the women’s football fixtures with just 3 matches getting played some big games nevertheless with a semi final in the League Cup and a quarter final in the League Plate both featuring Sprowston who are on top of everything at the moment.
One league match in Norfolk Division One at the weekend with 3rd placed still uneaten in the league at home to 5th placed Gorleston FC Ladies looking to close the gap to 2 points on 2nd placed Bungay Town Ladies. A close first half seeing Thorpe United holding a 2-1 advantage the hosts when on to score 3 more goals in the 2nd half to win the game 3-2 with Shanice Sutton scoring a hat-trick that sees her move onto 27 goals for the season from just 11 appearances. Leonie Daulby also on the scoresheet scoring her 1st 2 goals for Thorpe United’s senior side. Sophie Gillett and Nicola Sheldrake with the goals in each half for Gorleston FC Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s League Cup
The first of the semi-finals of the League Cup were played this Sunday with Division Two leaders FC Sprowston Ladies travelling to Rivers Park to play Division One side Stalham Town Ladies. The visitors unbeaten in league and cup so far this season were up against higher league opponents for the 1st time this season. The Division Two side coming out on top clinching a narrow 2-1 win to book there place in the final. Rebecca Kirby and Nicole Read netting the winning goals. FC Sprowston Ladies will meet either Thorpe United Ladies or League Cup holders Bungay Town Ladies in the final their semi-final scheduled for this coming Sunday.
Norfolk Women’s League Plate
Also advancing to the semi-finals of the League Plate are Sprowston Ladies, currently leading Division One were drawn at home to Division Two side Beccles Town Ladies in the quarter finals. 2nd in Division Two, Beccles Town were trailing 2-0 at half-time before a strong 2nd half performance from Sprowston saw them score 4 more goals to win the tie 6-0 to advance. Rebecca Russell scoring a brace their goals to for Chelsea Pettifer, Georgia Cushion, Chelsea Brister and Victoria Leyer.
The other 3 quarter finals all scheduled for this Sunday too were all called off.
