Author Archives: WFEast

Match Report – Birmingham City Ladies v Chelsea Ladies

Saturday 10th February

 A first for Women’s Football East as FAWSL 1 makes it’s debut. Today’s game on a Saturday afternoon see’s Birmingham City Ladies hosting Chelsea Ladies at the Autotech Stadium in Solihull.

  Only new to this platform however as I have covered numerous FAWSL matches via my old Supporting Women’s Football Blog prior to turning all my focus to Women’s Football in the East of England, still I always intended to continue my coverage of the FAWSL just have needed a break with various thing’s going on, have missed it however and looking forwards to today’s match.

  The FAWSL switching to the winter season to fall back in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid. Entering another transitional period with a restructuring of the league new licencing rules and being opened up to new applicants the top tier requiring to be 100% professional come the new season. Huge challenges lay ahead.

  The season closing in on the halfway mark, Manchester City Women leading the way 2 unbeaten two points ahead of Chelsea Ladies themselves also unbeaten from 8 played. A win this afternoon will put Emma Hayes side top of the table for a few hours at least with Manchester City taking on 3rd placed Liverpool Ladies on Sunday. Anita Asante the clubs latest signing the England International having had a successful few years playing in Sweden.

Birmingham City Ladies sit in 5th place in the table, Marc Skinner taking over from David Parker in charge of the 1st team. 10 points from the 8 games they’ve played so far winning 3 and drawing one with 4 loses a tough challenge today against Chelsea a win will put Birmingham right behind the top for well placed to push on in the 2nd half of the season. Have German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger back between the sticks after she was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the season having made a successful recovery.

The Automated Technology Stadium the venue for today’s game a cold and wet February day heavy rain on the way from Norfolk but settling down to a steady drizzle blowing strongly across the pitch cover at the ground behind both goals a wide pitch the mainstand housing the bar and changing room covered too. I’ve missed Birmingham’s burger van quite possibly the best in the FAWSL. But it isn’t quite the same without the ice cream van parked beside the pitch, not that I was craving a cornetto.

Birmingham City Ladies starting XI – Ann-Katrin Berger, Jess Carter, Meaghan Sargeant, Aoife Mannion, Kerys Harrop (C), Sarah Mayling, Hayley Ladd, Charlie Wellings, Marisa Ewers, Emma Follis & Ellen White. Subs – Hannah Hampton, Paige Williams, Abby-Leigh Stringer, Emily Westwood, Maddy Cusack, Lucy Quinn & Freda Ayisi.

Chelsea Ladies starting XI – Hedvig Lindhal, Maria Thorisdottir, Hannah Blundell, Anita Asante, Millie Bright, Ji So-Yun, Katie Chapman (C), Drew Spence, Crystal Dunn, Fran Kirby & Romana Bachmann. Subs – Carly Telford, Gemma Davison, Karen Carney, Maren Mjelde, Jonna Andersson & Erin Cuthbert.

It’s the home side to kick-off the 1st half, Birmingham all in blue with Chelsea lied up opposite in their all white away kit. A couple of balls a launched forwards by Birmingham runners testing the Chelsea back line. Charlie Wellings looking to make progress on the left Maria Thorisdottir defends for Chelsea. The visitors pressing up as a unit early on the ball played across their defence left to right Hannah Blundell sweeping an early cross into the Birmingham box, runners closing in no one can get on the end of it. Emma Follis picks up the ball for Birmingham taking it on attempts the through ball for Ellen White, Millie Bright intercepts and plays it back for goalkeeper Hedvig Lindhal to clear.

Birmingham City Ladies, Charlie Wellings

  Blundell with a strong run down the right getting to the byline her high looping cross lands on the top of the Birmingham crossbar, the assistants flag raised play is stopped for offside. Thorisdottir with the pass left side on for Kirby she powers her way towards the box a vital tackle from Meaghan Sargeant to deny her a shooting opportunity the ball sent behind at a cost however as the defender collides with on rushing goalkeeper, Katrin-Ann Berger. A break in play as Sargeant receives treatment on the pitch. 

The corner ball from the left is played in short as Ji So-Yun comes wanting the ball her pass played up towards the top of the area the cross flashed in towards the far post Kerys Harrop, Birmingham’s captain heading the ball out of the area Chelsea retain possession played into Anita Asante 20 yards out she shoots slightly scuffing the effort the ball skipping off the surface on target an outstretched Birmingham leg diverting it away from goal before being cleared. Chelsea have started well.

Chelsea Ladies, Anita Asante

Birmingham look to bring the ball on through the middle, Sarah Mayling coming forwards Follis gives her a forwards run, she tries to play the ball into her, Millie Bright coming across defends well for Chelsea. More good build up play from Birmingham, White picking up the ball right side comes down the line her pass inside for Mayling she sends it on across the field into Marisa Ewers sprinting down the left wing she picks out Follis at the top of the area left side of goal fires the shot in low, Hedvig Lindhal getting down well inside her six yard box to smother the ball.

Chelsea’s Drew Spence battling Birmingham’s Jess Carter for possession of the ball

   Crystal Dunn coming forwards on the left sends her pass on for Fran Kirby breaking in behind the Birmingham defence taking the ball into the area takes the ball past Berger as she dives at her feet in an attempt to get to the ball. Kirby’s progress is halted by a raised flag. Bright defends well again up against Ewers as Aoife Mannion plays the ball out from the back for Birmingham, the visitors counter attacking with purpose, Romana Bachmann is played through taking the ball into the area looks to try and take it past Berger and get a shot away, the goalkeeper doing well diving at her feet ad snatching out a glove to pull the ball safely into her body.

GOAL! Chelsea have pressed Birmingham closing anyone down quickly as the home side have possession Mayling is caught out as Kirby steals in to knock the ball past her run towards the area Dunn alert on the left Kirby sends the ball out to her heading into the box Dunn’s shot blocked Kirby is there to send her shot past Berger into the goal beyond 0-1.

Fran Kirby makes it 1-0 to Chelsea Ladies.

Chelsea are squeezing the pitch defending on the halfway line at times giving Birmingham very little room alot of space to exploit behind if they can pick out their strikers that though isn’t easy their defence given no time on the ball. White attempts to get clear on half-way, is tracked by Asante the defender putting in the tackle to win the ball. Great control from So-Yun as the ball comes ta her quickly her pass putting Kirby in behind the Birmingham defence, Berger coimng to close the attacker down makes a fantastic save at her feet. 

  White with good footwork in the middle takes the ball on picking out Wellings making a good break down the right wing her cross swung in near post is claimed confidently by Lindhal. Chelsea get the ball up the other end Dunn left side her cross flashed across the six yard box, Bachmann can’t connect far post the ball coming to Blundell just outside the area right side hits a strong shot in low towards goal Berger diving making an excellent save.

Birmingham City Ladies, Ellen White

Berger the busier of the two goalkeepers saves at the near post as Bachmann linking up with Dunn on the left sends the ball in near post. A rare opportunity for White inside the Chelsea area doing well as she picks up possession in the opposition half left side is closed down by three Chelsea players can’t get the ball in the chance gone Chelsea are quickly on the move the ball worked up field on the left a high ball into the area falling to Drew Spence she blazes her strike over the bar. Chelsea are certainly on top in the opening half hour Spence powerful on the ball winning it central comes in Bachmann ahead of her lays the ball on her shot it driven in towards goal from the edge of the area Berger with another great save diving to her left to deny her a goal.

Chelsea Ladies, Romana Bachmann

    Dunn breaking with the ball on left comes forwards cuts inside as Buchmann moves out of the way taking a defender with her the U.S international shooting the ball heading near post Berger saving again is keeping Birmingham in the game right now. Opportunities up the other end limited White doing her best to find some space drifts out wide Thorisdottir in to tackle and win the ball. A throw deep on the left nice work between Jess Carter, Mayling and White the pass into Ewers looking to strike the ball from the top of the area looses her footing as Chelsea swarm in to close her down.

   Spence win the crossfield ball for captain Katie Chapman on for Blundell breaking up the line her pass into Kirby, Mannion closing her down wins the ball back for Birmingham. Bachmann breaking clear in injury time sees her cross flash wide across the face of goal.  

Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-1 Chelsea Ladies

    A dominant display from Chelsea in the 1st half composed and confident working well as a unit squeezing the pitch everyone working well to close the ball down not affording anytime on the ball for Birmingham. Kirby opening the scoring and had it not been for some excellent stops from goalkeeper Berger, then the visitors might well be going into the changing room at the break with a bigger lead, as it stands at just the one goal Birmingham are far from out of it. Chances at the other end limited however Follis’ shot Lindhal’s only real test.

A change for the home side at half-time Sargeant coming off to be replaced by Paige Williams at left back. It’s Chelsea to get the 2nd half underway. Carter with some early defending to do does well as Spence breaks forwards into the box for Chelsea. The visitors keeping Birmingham pinned back in their own half. Kirby getting free on the left side takes the ball on, cries out in frustration as she see puts to much on her cross into the area with Bachmann and Spence making near and far post runs. 

  Follis gets forwards with ball closing in on the Chelsea area left side lays the ball back for Hayley Ladd positioned centrally she lays the ball out to Williams running down the wing her cross in deep towards the far post falls to Wellings can’t get enough on the ball to bring it down under control and shot Chelsea in to clear up the pitch. Thorisdottir putting her head on the ball inside the area to clear a Birmingham set-piece played in from the left. A tidy spell for Birmingham White stealing in to win the ball makes a jinking run forwards giving her room for a shot from 20 yards out her effort flashing wide across goal. The danger of having just a single goal lead 1 strike and Birmingham are back level.

Hayley Ladd getting her head on the ball for Birmingham

   Dunn gets away down the left her ball forwards towards Bachmann making a run into the area is just about intercepted by Ewers tracking back for Birmingham. Chelsea maintain their pressing game no one at the back for Birmingham allowed any time on the ball what so ever forcing misplaced passes. Great defending from Harrop for Birmingham inside the box as Chelsea push on down the right Dunn moving the ball between her feet on into Kirby at the top of the box her through ball central aiming for Bachmann the Birmingham captain close to her gets hold of the ball.

Birmingham City Ladies captain, Kerys Harrop with Chelsea’s Hannah Blundell.

  Dunn is impressive on the left side for Chelsea getting hold of the ball taking players on flashes a cross long across the six yard box. Dunn fed in again by Chapman plays a diagonal ball forwards into the area Bachmann with the run, Berger getting down claims the ball first. Blundell on the move down the right her pass inside for Kirby 25 yards out lays the ball across to Dunn moving into the area her effort is blocked by Carter. 

Crystal Dunn attacking for Chelsea Ladies

  Williams comes forwards with the ball on the left for Birmingham plays it on for Follis coming across to receive the ball bringing it inside puts it into White standing just inside the area she shoots first time the ball straight at Lindhal the keeper holding onto the ball. Chelsea make their 1st change, Bachmann the player coming off, Erin Cuthbert going on up front. Birmingham are having a few half chances White finding a little wriggle room now at the back threatens to break clear Asante recovers well however making up the ground to put in the blocking tackle as the striker goes to shoot.

Kerys Harrop, leaves Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert in a heap as she wins the ball

  Dunn plays the ball into Cuthbert outside the area she is upended giving Chelsea the free-kick in a dangerous position. So-Yun over the ball strikes it hard past the Birmingham wall drags her effort wide of Berger’s goal. Spence gets clear as she moves to the left charging on with the ball squares it into the area a vital cut out by Harrop as Cuthbert was free behind her.

  GOAL! Into the final 20 minutes and Chelsea double their advantage pushing players forwards as they attack the ball taken to the byline by Dunn her cross into the area evades everyone somehow comes racing out to the top left corner, Kirby has the sense to get out of the way So-Yun coming onto the ball in a much better position strikes it with a peach of a left foot the ball whistling past Berger into the top corner 0-2.

South Korean international, Ji So-Yun makes it 2-0 to Chelsea

Emma Hayes makes a change straight after the goal bringing off Spence and sending on bring on Norwegian international, Maren Mjelde. Birmingham come forwards Ladd with support from Follis looking to play a one two Bright reads it well for Chelsea getting in to win the ball. Berger pulls off another outstanding save as Chelsea break with purpose Dunn away on the left rolling the ball into the path of Cuthbert making a central run the goalkeeper getting down to stop the shot.

    A change from both sides Wellings coming off for Birmingham is replaced by Lucy Quinn. So-Yun coming off for Chelsea, Karen Carney the visitors final substitution. Bright with a superb long range pass forwards for Cuthbert the young Scottish attacker bringing the ball down well on her chest striking the falling ball towards goal from 20 yards out her shot straight at Berger the keeper with another confident save. Birmingham make their final change Abbey-Leigh Stringer on for Mayling.

   Dunn continuing her good work down the left runs clear firing in a cross towards Carney at the near post closed down quickly by Carter and Mannion can’t wriggle free of the pair to get a shot away. Mjelde with a strike from outside the box sees her effort fly wide of the target as the game moves into injury time. Cuthbert has the ball in the back of the net late on the flag up for offside before she has struck the ball however. A late late corner for Birmingham the ball whips in by Williams is headed off the line by Chapman as the final whistle blows and Chelsea keep a clean sheet the 2-0 win taking them to the top of the table.

Full time Birmingham City Ladies 0-2 Chelsea Ladies

   A great team performance from Chelsea dominant pressing the ball really well putting Birmingham under constant pressure at the back impressive on the ball it was the work they did off that really stood out today. Squeezing play up at times potentially left them exposed if Birmingham could have found a way through their attackers making sure no one settled on the ball. Berger’s saves kept Birmingham in the game and 2nd half all the while it was just a single goal lead the hosts created opportunities, Chelsea needed that 2nd goal. Birmingham despite being under constant pressure at the back did defend really well.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    A good display from Chelsea today so naturally today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to one of their players  a good all round performance, Bright has improved no end since joining Chelsea doing well leading the back line today going forwards with some superb runs and always ready to receive the ball I have chosen Crystal Dunn was outstanding on the left today.

Crystal Dunn

Good to get some FAWSL 1 action in at last the weather might not have been as good as my previous trips to the Automated Technology Stadium but the football was excellent my thanks to Birmingham for their assistance today.

Summer Tournament – Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses ‘Super Sixes’

The 11th WOBURN & WAVENDON LIONESSES ‘SUPER SIXES’

23-24th June 2018

WOBURN VILLAGE HALL PLAYING FIELDS

CRAWLEY ROAD, WOBURN, BEDS, MK17 9QD

 

Dear Club Secretary/Manager

We would like to invite you to the Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses annual 6 a-side girls football tournament on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June 2018.

Our 2017 tournament proved to be our most successful yet.  We were privileged to be an FA and McDonalds sponsored Community football event, one of only three in England. This helped secure our position as one of, if not the largest, girls only tournament in Southern England. We regularly attract teams from as far afield as Birmingham, London and Cambridge, however in 2017 we were also joined by seven teams from the Cardiff Bluebelles and were delighted to host our first international team, ASV Hagsfeld from Germany!

This year’s tournament will have sections at every age group from Under 8’s up to Under 18’s, and we will also have a competition for Ladies teams.

Woburn & Wavendon Super Sixes is a great day out for all the family. If you’ve never been to a big tournament then this is the one for you! We’ll help you with the organisation and will make sure that, even if you have a less experienced team, they will have a great time! We also stick to each age group being half a day. Our youngest age groups may like to note that the World famous Woburn Safari Park is just a few minutes away to complete your day in Bedfordshire.

From previous years’ experience you will need to register as early as possible, as a number of age groups will be oversubscribed.

The U8 and U9 event will be run as a non-competitive event. In these age groups all players will receive a medal. All other age groups will play 6 a-side competition rules with a maximum of 10 players per team. Teams will be in groups of 6 and therefore will play a minimum of five games in either the morning or afternoon. Qualified referees will officiate in all games.

Confirmation and further details will be sent to you once entries are closed. The organisers do reserve the right to refuse applications and a reminder that no girls who have played for or are signed for an FA Centre of Excellence on the tournament date are permitted to play club football by the FA. Age groups for the tournament are those that applied in England for grassroots clubs for season 2017/2018. Teams from outside England please contact us for any assistance.

Many Thanks

Graeme Williams

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Tournament Organiser

On behalf of Woburn & Wavendon Football Club

Affiliated to the Beds F.A.

To download an entry form go to http://ww-fc.co.uk/

The Round-Up – Essex 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

Essex Women’s Premier Division

One game played in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and it was a big result for Harlow Town Ladies Reserves as they win in the league for the 1st time this season to move off the bottom of the table. Away to 5th placed Chelmsford City Ladies drawing 1-1 at half-time Harlow getting the winning goal in the 2nd half to claim all 3 points, Rebecca Pope and Mollie Rose the players getting their goals. Lisa Overall with the 1st half goal for Chelmsford City.

Essex Women’s Division One

 In Essex Women’s Division One with league leaders Hullbridge Sports Ladies involved in the League Cup this Sunday 2nd placed Leigh Ramblers Ladies had the chance to return to the top of the table as they travelled to Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves, the 6th placed side able to name a strong squad this weekend good the right result too winning the contest 4-1 with their goals scored by Sophie Lovell, Emma Mackie, Chloe Wilkinson and Georgia Holdaway.

That defeat for Leigh Ramblers saw 3rd placed Southend United Ladies move to within a point as they won comfortably away from home on Sunday playing Billericay Town Ladies Reserves. 2 goals in each half seeing them to a 4-0 victory, Emily Pert the clubs top scorer moving onto 12 goals for the season with a brace. Sophie Smith and Lily-Maree Halliday also claiming a goal each.

5th placed Rayleigh Town Ladies are rampart in front of goal as for the 2nd successive game they scored 15 times in a match with 14 goals scored in the game before that too! Captain Isabelle Wallings more often than not the top scorer in a game adding another 5 to her tally this Sunday away to FC Clacton Ladies. Holly Gash and Megan Harvey both getting a hat-trick. A brace for Eleasha Reeves along with a goal each for Jorja Killington and Lily Aungier.

Essex Women’s League Cup

4 ties played this Sunday in the Essex Women’s League Cup, holder Corringham Cosmos seeing their away game against fellow Premier Division side Eastern Avenue postponed. Elsewhere the action was from the 2nd Round. Hullbridge Sports Ladies leading Essex Division One were away to fellow league side Alresford Colne Rangers on Sunday. Hullbridge’s Broghan Kelly’s impressive form in front of goal continuing as she netted another hat-trick taking her onto 35 goals from just 13 appearances. Danni Dorrington, Patricia McWeeney and Sophie Fuller all getting a goal each to in a comfortable 6-0 win to put Hullbridge through to the quarter finals.

Premier Division leaders Hatfield Peverel Ladies also have a striker in red hot form as they hosted Division One side Walden Ladies in the 2nd Round of the league Cup on Sunday, Yasmin Cowley with another 1st half hat-trick added added another in the 2nd half to ease Hatfield Peverel into the quarter finals with a 4-1 win. 33 goals from 12 appearances for Cowley now.

  An all Premier Division tie in the 2nd Round of the League Cup saw Runwell Sports Ladies hosting Frontiers Ladies. A closer game this one a goal in each half for Runwell Sports from Danielle Stace and Bobbi Cubberly it was Frontiers who progressed to the quarter finals however winning the tie 3-2 courtesy of a brace from Sharon Ferguson along with a goal from Kelly Holsworth to win 3-2.

  In the final 2nd Round tie played in the League Cup in Essex this weekend their was an upset as Division One side Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies knocked out Premier Division side Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. The sides drawing 2-2 after 90 minutes the tie heading into extra-time both were on target with another goal 3-3, A brace from Fran Pridie along with a goal for Daisy Theobald for home side Dagenham & Redbridge. Marie Hall, Ella Jones and Abigail Hawkins getting the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers the tie went all the way to penalties. Dagenham & Redbridge winning the shootout 4-3 to progress into the quarter finals.

   The draw for the Essex Women’s League Cup quarter finals is as follows:- 

Hatfield Peverel Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies Reserves

Lawford Ladies v Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies

Eastern Avenue or Corringham Cosmos v Hullbridge Sports Ladies

Collier Row Tigers v Frontiers Ladies

ties scheduled to be played Sunday 25th February

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership leaders, Netherton United Ladies were finally back in action having not played since the first weekend of the year, then they suffered just their 2nd defeat of the season away to St Ives Town Ladies, amongst those hoping to challenge them for the title come the end of the season. Their lead has been closed at little the sides below having games in hand but remains a healthy 7 points, returning to league action this Sunday got back to winning ways with a big win at home to Cambridge University Women. Jenna Nairn putting Netherton 1-0 up inside 5 minutes and own goal doubling the home sides lead 10 minutes later. Megan Strickland and Yasmin Green then scored to make it 4-0 the lead at half-time, Lori Van Raemdonck scoring her 1st goal for Netherton. An own goal saw Cambridge University reduce the deficit 2 minutes into the 2nd half. Netherton were soon back amongst the goals, Green going on to score a hat-trick with Emily Johnson adding a brace in the final 10 minutes too to see Netherton United move onto 30 points with a 9-1 win.

Newmarket Town Ladies are Netherton’s closest rivals moving back into 2nd place in the Premiership table with a home win against Cambridge City Ladies Development who they beat in the same fixture 4-1 two weeks ago. A closer game Bella Simmons giving Cambridge City an early lead. Jordanne Sillitoe getting Newmarket back on level terms 10 minutes later the sides drawing 1-1 at half-time. Sillitoe getting her 2nd of the game with 15 minutes left to secure the 2-1 win for Newmarket have 2 games in hand on Netherton.

   ICA Sports Ladies move back into 4th in the Premiership table with victory away to bottom side Park Ladies this Sunday. A close first half the sides drawing 2-2 going into the changing rooms a different story 2nd half as ICA Sports came forwards scoring 5 goals to win 7-2 to claim the 3 points. Lorna Hart on target for 2 goals. Jessica Farchina, Carmen Herridge, Hayley Jones and Donna Nicholls all getting their names on the scoresheet too.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

Two ties played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup on Sunday, it was game on at the 3rd attempt between Histon Ladies and Wisbech Town Ladies at the Glassworld Stadium on Sunday. Wisbech Town playing 2 leagues below Histon taking the lead 20 minutes into the 1st half Sophie Gutteridge with the goal. Histon had an opportunity to equalise from the penalty spot the ball saved. Late in the half the hosts did find a leveller Alison Wright seeing the sides go in drawing 1-1 at half-time. Histon started the 2nd half strongly going in front as the game approached the hour Tessa Shaw scoring to make it 2-1. Wisbech Town drew back level just 4 minutes later Josie Turner the goalscorer. Histon pushing for another goal retook the lead with 20 minutes left Katie Seagrave finding the back of the net and late into the game secured the win Siobhan White making it 4-2 to send Histon into the next round.

Championship South side, Isleham United Ladies were hosting Premiership side March Town United Ladies in the Invitation Cup on Sunday. March in control of the game leading 3-0 at half-time went onto double their tally in the 2nd half making it through to the next round with a 6-1 win. Shannon Shaw on the scoresheet with 4 goals taking her onto 14 for the season, Shannon Kelly and Emma Searle scoring too for March Town. Laura Todd with the 2nd half strike for Isleham United.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Three matches in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South on Sunday, leaders Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds finding themselves in trouble at half-time away to 3rd placed St Ives Town Ladies trailing 3-0. A complete turnaround in the 2nd half however as Fulbourn came back to win the match 4-3 to maintain their 3 point lead at the top of the table. Top scorer Marie Stubbings moving onto 32 goals for the season with a brace. Katie Luddy and Sarah Gee also scoring a goal a piece.

Defeat for St Ives Town Ladies Development saw Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves keep hold of 3rd spot in the table on goal difference after they had won earlier in the day away to Cambridge Rangers Women. Abbi Griffin putting the visitors in front inside 5 minutes an own goal extending the lead midway through the 1st half, Cassandra Carvalheiro netting a 3rd goal before half-time. Cambridge Rangers brought it back to 3-1 12 minutes into the 2nd half. Newmarket Town went on to find the back of the net for 3 more goals to win the game 6-1. Amanda Stacy, Dominika Szary and Hollie Turner getting their goals.

   2nd placed Histon Ladies Reserves keep up the pressure on Fulbourn winning away from home on Sunday against bottom side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Philippa Hayden-Evans getting her 13th and 14th goals of the season along with strikes for Daniella Briggs and Sophie Wing in a 4-1 victory. Vicky Murrell scoring the goal for Burwell Tigers.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

One game from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup group stages this weekend in Group D, Riverside Ladies were playing their 1st game in the competition at home to Spalding United Ladies who were also playing their 1st match. A big win for Riverside puts them straight to the top of the group. Samantha Woodham scoring 4 goals in the match, Jess Hill one goal behind with a hat-trick. Ronela Mardosaite claiming a brace with a goal each for Sophie Harris, Dionne Lawton and Jade Ramm in a 12-1 win.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup

Houghton Athletic Ladies are through to the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup semi-finals as they beat opponents Luton Town Ladies Development on Sunday the sides meeting again after the game was abandoned the weekend before due to a serious injury to Houghton Athletic’s Ciara Craig. Houghton Athletic had just the bare 11 available for the game. Shakeela Hussain scoring the only goal of the game to secure the win for the Beds & Herts Division One side. Houghton Athletic will be the underdogs away to ERWFL Premier Division side Bedford Ladies in the semi-final.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two

 Postponements across all three divisions with no games played in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One at all. In Division Two 3 matches were played. League leaders Garston Ladies 2nd XI were on home turf on Sunday taking on Hitchin Belles. Despite 2 goals from Gemma Smith for Hitchin Belles, Garston won for the 7th time this season to maintain their 3 point lead at the top. A 3-2 win for the hosts, Lauren Berryman, Leah Crockett and Maddie Gorton scoring the goals.

 Royston Town Ladies Development and Hitchin Town Ladies met again for the 2nd weekend running the sides 3rd and 4th in the table enjoying another close high scoring match. Last Sunday, Hitchin Town came out on top winning 4-2. Conditions similar for both games a muddy surface it was Royston Town who celebrated the win this time around again 4-2 the final score. Sammy Tinsley grabbing a brace, with goals too for Grace Leslie and Amie Jones. Lifting Royston Town back up to 2nd in the Division Two table. Emma Chaffey and Jessica McNamara on target for Hitchin Town Ladies.

A big away win for Letchworth Garden City Eagles too on Sunday in Division Two away to bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. the 5th placed side securing their 4th league win of the season, Natalie Moey scoring a hat-trick for the 2nd successive game for Letchworth. Tayla Murray also getting a brace along with a goal for Ellie Watson in a 6-2 win. Amy Gibbins and Sally Green scoring for Woburn & Wavendon.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three

One game beat the weather in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Three on Sunday 3rd placed Welwyn Pegasus Azures at home to bottom side Potters Bar United Ladies. The two sides sharing the points with a 2-2 draw. Senal Chapman and Janiece Allen on target for Welwyn Pegasus. A 2nd point on the board for Potters Bar with Lauren Englefield and Charlotte Caswell getting the goals.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

Norfolk Women’s Division One

  A switch of venue saw Norfolk Division One leaders, Bungay Town Ladies travelling to 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies on Sunday the hosts back in league action for the 1st time since the opening weekend of 2017. Games in hand on Bungay, Thorpe trail the league leaders by 9 points but have played 3 games less. A challenge with Bungay undefeated in league and cup since the start of October. The hosts taking a 2-1 lead into the half-time break thanks to goals from Nicola Hazell and Samantha Walker. Thorpe got a goal back in the 2nd half to see the sides take a share of the points their goals coming from captain Rebekah Lake and Shanice Sutton. Bungay lead the table by 3 points.

 In between Thorpe and Bungay 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies maintain their great league form too winning away to Gorleston FC Ladies the visitors though were trailing 2-1 at half-time with Samantha Hunn and Sophie Gillett finding the back of the net for Gorleston. Sprowston came back to win it in the 2nd half, Victoria Leyer scoring in the 1st half going on to net a hat-trick to see Sprowston to a 3-2 victory.

    Stalham Town Ladies are the big movers in the Division One table this weekend climbing up from 6th to 4th with an away win on Sunday against Fakenham Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points scored by Joanne Hooper.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

  In Norfolk Women’s Division Two, leaders FC Sprowston Ladies kept up their 100% start to the season as they recorded their 10th straight win at home to Bure Valley Wildcats on Sunday. A strong 1st half performance seeing them leading 5-1. Bure Valley Wildcats restricting their opponents to two more goals in the 2nd half to see Sprowston to a 7-1 win keeping them 6 points clear of 2nd placed Beccles Town Ladies. Charlie Head grabbing herself a brace in the match their were goals to for Melissa Belsey, Tammy Graves, Rebecca Kirby and Nicole Read. Juliette Kelly on target for Bure Valley Wildcats in the 1st half.

4 goals this Sunday for Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens

   That defeat sees Bure Valley Wildcats slip down a place to 7th in the Division Two table as Gorleston Rangers Ladies shared 8 goals at home to Toftwood United Ladies to win their 3rd game of the season. Ashleigh Cunningham and Lydia Hooper amongst the goal for Toftwood as they scored 3 times, Gorleston Rangers replying with 5 at the other end to seal the win.

    Beccles Town Ladies kept up their great league form this weekend just 1 defeat from 9 played on the road this Sunday taking on Freethorpe Ladies. Leading 3-1 at half-time went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win 5-1 opening up a 5 point to 3rd placed Tavern Ladies. Lucy Robbens (pictured) the star of the show scoring 4 out of the 5 Beccles goals, Emily Coe also getting in the scoresheet. Rebecca White with the 1st half goal for Freethorpe.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

ERWFL Premier Division

ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Billericay Town Ladies came back from 1-0 down at half-time last Sunday to beat 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies 2-1 to move 4 points clear at the top of the table. This Sunday they were on the road looking to extend the lead to 7 points against 7th place AFC Dunstable Ladies. Women’s Football East was there to watch the game. Appealed on the fixture list and certainly delivered on the pitch. Billericay Town without top scorer, Paris Smith nevertheless started the game stronger getting the ball forwards using the width well, capitalising with a goal in the 15th minute and a stunning one too from Lauren Bourne cutting in from the left to receive the ball outside the box and send it flying high into the goal. Hannah Payne producing a couple of excellent saves in the Dunstable goal to keep the score down to just a single goal at half-time.

Lauren Bourne opens the scoring for Billericay Town Ladies

A different game 2nd half changes for both sides Dunstable got off to a positive start and seeing more of the ball grew in confidence feeling they could get back on level terms. Billericay were made to work hard in defence stood up to the task however and in the end won the game thanks to Bourne’s 1st half goal, 3 points well earned.

In the other game played in the ERWFL Premier Division, 3rd placed Acle United Ladies were away in Suffolk taking on AFC Sudbury Ladies, had new signing Amy Bell making her debut in goal. Acle United taking the lead midway through the 1st half, Megan Todd getting the goal. The lead was doubled early into the 2nd half, Grace Birchall with her 10th goal of the season making on 2-0 on 47 minutes. Young midfielder Laura Holden extending the visitors lead with 15 minutes left on the clock. Birchall with her 2nd of the game capping off a dominant game from Acle United, the 4-0 seeing them close the gap on 2nd placed Cambridge City to a single point with a game in hand 8 points off Billericay have 2 games in hand on the leaders.

ERWFL Division One North

A heavy defeat for ERWFL Division One North leaders, King’s Lynn Town Ladies last time out away to 2nd placed Wymondham Town Ladies 9-0 the final score. Another bad result this weekend saw them suffer back to back defeats on the road to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies who won for the 3rd time this season. Playing at their new home, Wickham Market FC, Ipswich went into half-time with a 2-0 lead, Destiny Minors and Elysia Young getting the goals. Olivia Gunn adding to their lead early in the 2nd half. King’s Lynn grabbing a consolation goal late in the game Shelley Woods the scorer as they lose for 3rd time this season.

 In the other game played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, 4th placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves move to within a point of 3rd placed Ipswich Wanderers continuing their recent good form having now collected 13 points from their last 6 league matches. At home on Sunday taking on bottom side Silver End United Ladies who they had already beaten twice in that spell 2-1 both home and away. Michaela Dortch scoring her 1st for the club, Ellen Green, Nuala Wayne and Ruth Fox also celebrating a goal with an own goal too securing a 5-1 win. 

ERWFL Division One South

100% records went tumbling in ERWFL Division One South this weekend, not just one but two as both leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves and 2nd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies tasted defeat for the 1st time in the league this season. Stevenage Ladies Reserves going into the game with 11 straight wins and zero in the goals conceded column. That came to an end away in Essex to 4th place Hutton Ladies. A hat-trick from Laura Allen seeing the Stevenage goal finally breached her 3 goals enough to win the game 3-2 for Hutton, Emily Schofield and Amy Josland getting the goals for the visitors.

   Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies were at home on Sunday 2nd with 7 straight league wins at home to 3rd placed Harlow Town Ladies. Rosi Webb getting the goal to put Harlow into the lead, Little Thurrock Dynamos getting it back all square at 1-1. Tayla Handscomb restoring Harlow’s lead Nicole Learner made it 3-1. Handscomb hit her 2nd of the match to further extend the lead for the visitors. Lily Bruno then got in on the goal scoring making it 5-1. Little Thurrock Dynamos.pulling it back to 5-2 before Bruno scored her 2nd of the match Harlow winning the game 6-2 move to within 3 points on Little Thurrock Dynamos. Eloise Ives and Natalie Strange scoring the goals for the home side.

In the other match played in the ERWFL Division One South this Sunday, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies were away to Bishops Stortford Ladies looking to build some form as they prepare for next months Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup final. Got their 2nd league win of the season to move ahead of Bishops Stortford on goal difference. Shannon Daly scoring after just 2 minutes for Hoddesdon. Sian Owens and Charley Handley also on target with a goal in the 1st half for the visitors. Natasha Crick scoring another with 10 minutes left Hoddesdon winning the match 4-2. Brogan McHale getting one of the goals for Bishops Stortford, the other coming courtesy of an own goal.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

FA Women’s Cup

 The 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday featuring 16 ties the last 32 in the competition with the sides from both FAWSL 1 & 2 entering at this stage. 8 ties featuring sides within the East or the leagues covered. FAWSL 2 sides Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were drawn at home against fellow FAWSL opposition. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies taking on 6 times FA Women’s Cup winners Doncaster Rovers Belles currently leading FAWSL 2 a 3-0 win for the visitors seeing Doncaster through to the 5th Round.

   Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were hosting the current FA Women’s Cup holders Manchester City Women a big test for Hope Powell’s side, a useful one too even though they exited the competition going out defeated 2-0. Watford Ladies from FAWSL 2 had also been handed a tough away tie in the FA Women’s Cup taking on Liverpool Ladies from FAWSL 1. A 5-0 win for the Merseyside club seeing Liverpool safely into the 5th Round.

 Elsewhere their were 5 sides from the FAWPL Southern Division competing in the FA Women’s Cup 4th Round. Cardiff City Ladies producing the upset of the round by knocking out FAWSL opposition. At home to Oxford United Women on Sunday. Held their higher league opponents to a goalless draw taking the tie into extra-time still neither side could break the stalemate the tie going all the way to a penalty shootout. Cardiff celebrating an historic victory taking the shootout 5-4 to reach the 5th Round.

   It wasn’t the only tie to go all the way to penalties as Southern Division side, Chichester City Ladies were away in the 4th Round up against, The New Saints Ladies, enjoying a good season so far 2nd in FAWPL Midlands Division One. Was a tight game between the two sides, The New Saints Ladies leading 1-0 at the break through an own goal from Chichester in the 32nd minute. Chichester City responded early in the 2nd half to level the scores, Cherelle Khassel putting the ball into the back of the net. That the way the score remained on 90 minutes the tie moving into extra-time no more goals seeing it head to penalties Chichester City the one’s celebrating as they went through to the 5th Round taking it 5-4.

 A tricky away trip too or Lewes FC Women on Sunday too in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup taking on Keynsham Town Ladies from FAWPL South West Division One, in good form. Lewes playing a league higher are enjoying a good season themselves however and safely negotiated this potential banana skin. Amy Taylor giving the visitors the lead late in the 1st half. Georgia Bridges doubling the lead in the 2nd half as the game closed on the hour mark her strike quickly followed up by a goal from Sarah Kempson. Lewes into the 5th Round with a 3-0 win.

 For the 3rd successive cup match Charlton Athletic Women progressed with a win in extra-time. A long trip away in the FA Women’s Cup for the Southern Division leaders up against Northern Division side, Blackburn Rovers Ladies. A close match between the pair it was goalless after the 1st 45 minutes. Charlton  taking the lead early in the 2nd half courtesy of an own goal. The lead didn’t last long as Natasha Flint equalised for Blackburn Rovers. Mid-way through the 2nd half Charlton once again took the lead Charlotte Gurr making it 2-1 in the 73rd minute. Again Blackburn Rovers pulled it level, Flint with her 2nd of the game 9 minutes from time. 2-2 the final score after 90 minutes the tie heading in extra-time for the 3rd time in the game Charlton took the lead, Georgia Griffin scoring in the 1st period of extra-time, this time Charlton held on to claim the win and reach the last 16 of the FA Women’s Cup.

Coventry United Ladies were drawn away in the FA Women’s Cup, against FAWSL 2 opposition, Millwall Lionesses. Nothing new for the Southern Division side have claimed FAWSL scalps in the FA Women’s Cup in previous seasons. Were up against a Millwall Lionesses side in good form this time around however the hosts leading 2-0 at half-time. An early goal in the 2nd half putting Millwall in full control of the tie led 4-0 with 20 minutes left. Coventry were awarded a penalty with around 5 minutes left, Helen Dermody stepping up to score, Coventry exited the cup with a 4-1 defeat.

  The draw for the last 16 of the FA Women’s Cup was made on Monday with at least one FAWPL side guaranteed at place in the quarter finals with Cardiff City draw at home to Charlton. A couple of mouth watering home ties too for both Chichester City and Lewes as they meet Merseyside giants, Liverpool Ladies & Everton Ladies from FAWSL 1 respectfully.

The FA Women’s Cup 5th Round draw, ties to be played Sunday 18th February.

Arsenal Women v Millwall Lionesses

Cardiff City Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women

Lewes FC Women v Everton Ladies

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

Chichester City Ladies v Liverpool Ladies

Birmingham City Ladies v Manchester City Women

Chelsea Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Durham Women FC v Plymouth Argyle Ladies or Leicester City Women 

FAWPL Southern Division

Three games in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday and with leaders Charlton involved in the FA Women’s Cup it was an opportunity for the sides placed 2nd and 3rd to close the gap at the top. Crystal Palace Ladies in 2nd level on points with 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies who defeated them 1-0 last time out. Looking to get back to winning ways Crystal Palace Ladies were on home soil taking on West Ham United Ladies the visitors buoyed by a 6-2 win away to Cardiff City Ladies last weekend. A tough game for both sides it was a frustrating afternoon for Crystal Palace, West Ham United picking up another valuable point as the sides drew 0-0. A further blow for Crystal Palace as they lost Nikita Whinnett to injury having to be stretched off early in the game. Women’s Football East wishes her all the best for a full and speedy recovery.

C&K Basildon weren’t taking anything for granted as they headed west on Sunday to play bottom side Swindon Town Ladies still without a single point on the board after 14 games. A tough season for Swindon so far are battling hard took the lead in the game Mia Mugford making it 1-0 in the 17th minute. C&K Basildon responded well coming back quickly to not only level the score but take a 2-1 lead into the half-time break, Angela Addison with both goals. Captain Zoe Rushen adding a 3rd goal in the 2nd half seeing Basildon to a 3-1 win that takes them up to 2nd in the Southern Division table 2 points behind leaders Charlton.

Queens Park Rangers Ladies were on home soil on Sunday hosting Portsmouth FC Ladies. 4 points from there last 2 matches Queens Park Rangers were looking to build to two good away performances with a result at home against mid-table Portsmouth, the sides drawing 0-0 at the half-time whistle. A single goal was enough to claim all 3 points in the 2nd half coming 15 minutes from time, it was the visitors celebrating as Katie James netting the winning goal for Portsmouth the win taking them above Chichester City into 6th spot.   

FAWPL South East Division One

The FAWPL South East Division One fixture list was hit by the weather 3 of the 5 scheduled games being postponed. Leyton Orient WFC 2nd in the table were looking to close a 5 point gap on leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies as they played host to 5th placed Luton Town Ladies. There title ambitions taking a big dent however as Luton came away with a very good result. Stephanie Gale giving the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead. Natasha Fensome making it 2-0 in the 2nd half before a screamer from Lisa Nixon made it 3-0. Joanne Rutherford then missed a penalty hitting the bar as Leyton Orient were reduced to 10. Fensome with her 2nd securing a 4-0 win, that moves Luton right onto the tails of the sides above them.

Ipswich Town Ladies saw their own title hopes take a dent last weekend away to Leyton Orient. This weekend they were back on home soil taking on Denham United Ladies. The home side 4th in the table going 1-0 up in the 12th minute, an own goal conceded by Denham. The visitors responded straight away getting level 3 minutes later Kayleigh Currivan on target with the goal. 7 minutes left in the 1st half and Ipswich regained the lead Miagh Downey getting the goal to make it 2-1. Denham were back level within 4 minutes of the 2nd half kicking off, Sophie Cheadle with the goal to make it 2-2. An hour on the clock and Ipswich were awarded a penalty, captain Amanda Crump stepping up to the spot put the ball home to make it 3-2. Ipswich kept it this time and went on to get a 2 goal cushion in the last 15 minutes, Zoe Cossey getting on the scoresheet. Just 6 point separating the sides positioned 2 to 5th in the South East Division One table now.

 

Match Report – AFC Dunstable Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Sunday 4th February

A trip to Bedfordshire this Sunday to watch a game from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division with AFC Dunstable Ladies hosting league leaders, Billericay Town Ladies.

   The ERWFL proving to be a very competitive league across all 3 divisions this season, any given team in the Premier Division capable of beating the other on the day. 10 sides contesting the league now following the sad withdrawal of both Lowestoft Town Ladies and Colchester Town Ladies both having struggled to find enough committed players at this level. That has see some points adjustment during the way. 

AFC Dunstable are currently in 7th place in the ERWFL Premier Division table, very tight in the middle of the table with just 3 points between 7th and 4th placed Writtle Ladies. A win today could take AFC Dunstable Ladies as high as 4th with the right result. Their form has yo-yoed this season like a few other sides in the middle of the table. More than capable of putting a good run together on the back of a strong league campaign last season that saw them push the top sides all the way eventually finishing 4th. Have brought in a few players form Offley & Stopsley Women who folded over the close season, Kelly Moss, Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend -Brown. A 2-0 win over Sharnbrook WFC last weekend saw Dunstable reach the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup.

  Billericay Town Ladies are often amongst the side competing at the top end of the table during recent times finishing runners-up for 4 out of the last 5 seasons. 6th last campaign began this season strongly setting the early pace matched by Essex rivals Writtle Ladies. Cambridge City Ladies promoted last season going on a great winning run to took over top spot for a little while before Christmas. Billericay have added a few new faces to their squad, Dempsey Favell joining from Harlow Town Ladies, whilst Lauren Bourne, Nancy Butler and Georgia Box were with Colchester at the start of the season. Box hitting the ground running at Billericay the striker scoring 10 goals from 8 appearance. Plenty of goals already in the side before her arrival with captain Lindsey Morgan netting 15 so far and Paris Smith top scorers with 22 goals. Opened up a 4 point lead at the top after coming back from 1-0 down at half-time against 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies last weekend and with Cambridge not in action this Sunday an opportunity to open up a 7 point gap at the top.

The venue for today’s game, Creasey Park a council run sports facility home to several clubs, aswell as AFC Dunstable Ladies, AFC Dunstable FC and Dunstable Town use the ground. Is a very nice ground newly built offering several training pitches including a 3G surface aswell as the main pitch. A clubhouse with bar and hot food and drinks available laid out well the changing room adjoining leading out onto the main pitch a good size offering plenty of width a little worn in places has seen alot of action. Only been here before for night games so nice to see it it the daylight. A small seated stand, and a good sized carpark beside the ground. A few postponements in the area but the game was on frosty earlier wet before but the pitch had dried out well, chilly but the sun was doing it’s best.

AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI – Hannah Payne, Jodie Patterson, Lauren Chimes (C), Elly Wade, Stephanie Fisher, Rachel Moffat, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Samaira Khan, Rianne Townsend-Brown & Charlene Moreton. Subs – Rebecca Langthorpe, Beth Stanton, Claudia Attenborough & Kelly Moss.

Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Robyn Strauss, Rachel Armstrong, Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Sally Appleton, Lindsey Morgan (C), Nancy Butler, Lauren Bourne, Lauren Knight, Dempsey Favell & Georgia Box. Subs – Hope Strauss.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   Billericay were without top scorers Paris Smith today, Hope Strauss an U18 player on the subs bench. Both sides have blue as their home strip, today Billericay were playing in their red away kit. It’s Dunstable to get the 1st half underway. Billericay press the ball straight from kick-off captain Lindsey Morgan bringing it forwards the ball played out wide right to Lauren Knight getting forwards her progress halted by Dunstable captain Lauren Chimes at left back. The visitors keeping possession inside their opponents half.

 Lauren Bourne and Nancy Butler combine on the left side for Billericay bringing the ball on down the line the cross swept into the box knocked down by Georgia Box at the far post into the path of Butler her low shot blocked by Stephanie Fisher at the back for Dunstable the visitors keep the ball inside the final 3rd a cross sent in long from the left Lauren Knight coming in right side sees her looping strike fly up onto the roof of the net. 

Billericay continue their good start Morgan busy in the middle of the park winning the ball sends the pass forwards for Box ahead of her the striker holding the ball up lays it back to Morgan 25 yards out she sends a shot in towards goal straight at Hannah Payne a comfortable catch for the Dunstable goalkeeper. Jodie Patterson brings the ball on for Dunstable up to Moreton central she looks to release Khan on the right Lauren Armstrong intercepts the ball.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Jodie Patterson

Dunstable’s Danielle Carty bringing the ball in finds Rianne Townsend-Brown on the left driving on with the ball wins the home side the 1st corner of the game. A good delivery in from the left Samiara Khan get’s up highest near post puts her header wide of the goal. Butler plays the ball long up the pitch for Box moving into the right channel to chase down, Chimes sliding in to put the ball out for a throw in. Billericay work the ball across the top of the area, players drawn across Bourne his looking to get in behind, Khan doing well around on the cover to put in a vital tackle.  A good race on between Box and Dunstable centre back Elly Wade as Morgan plays the through ball on for her. the defender getting to the ball 1st plays it back to Payne to clear. 

GOAL! Billericay capitalise on their good start taking the lead 15 minutes into the game pressing forwards players racing to get into the area as Bourne carries the ball on down the left whips in a great cross along the six yard box met at the far post the shot comes in Payne makes an outstanding save to take the ball away across her goal back out to the left is knocked back out to towards the top of the area with Bourne latching onto it from 20 yards out smashes a stunning strike into the top corner no chance of stopping it 0-1. Bourne’s 1st goal for Billericay too.

Lauren Bourne opens the scoring for Billericay Town Ladies

Dunstable look to respond the ball played on through the middle by Charlotte South on for Khan coming central takes it on has Townsend-Brown making a run to her left rolls the ball on for her into the area left of goal goes to shoot, Kirsty Knight in the way making the block for Billericay the ball spinning behind for the corner. The ball played in towards the top of the Billericay box his headed over the crossbar.

 Morgan with a couple of efforts at goal for Billericay the 1st from a wide right position held low at the near post by Payne. The second as Sally Appleton plays the ball forwards from the back Morgan running onto it 20 yards from goal her strike right flashes wide across goal out at the far post. Payne with another top draw save for Dunstable this time however off one of her own defenders as Hayley Piggott getting forwards right side for Billericay puts a great cross into the box met by a blue shirt the header up heading goalwards threatening to dip under the ball Payne throws herself at it tipping it wide. 

An excellent save from AFC Dunstable Ladies goalkeeper Hannah Payne from one of her own players

 Butler receives the ball central from Morgan turns and plays it on for Dempsey Favell getting in behind the Dunstable defence a little too much on the ball allows Payne coming quickly off her line to get their 1st to clear the ball. A competitive game Appleton needed to come off to clean up a bleeding nose. Carty and Favell slid in for a 50/50 ball the Dunstable player aggrieved as the decision goes against her. A long ball played on is cleared by the Dunstable defence falls straight to Butler 30 yards out strikes the ball 1st time her effort swerving away from goal goes wide. 

Billericay Town Ladies captain, Lindsey Morgan

   Morgan taking the ball into the area for Billericay sees her shot blocked at close range by Wade another opportunity to put it in towards goal this time Fisher is in the right place to clear. Piggott with an ambitious effort from all of 40 yards out sees the ball fall just wide of goal. Charlene Moreton operating up front for Dunstable has been tracking back in order to win possession of the ball doing so has Khan making a break on the right wing the ball played up the line, Rachel Armstrong prevents her from getting a cross into the area. Counter attacking the ball played up to Morgan surging forwards into towards goal Box ahead of her right inside lays the ball back to her, Wade racing out charging down her shot. 

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Elly Wade

Dunstable make a substitution Beth Stanton coming on to replace Khan. Billericay press forwards Box picking up the ball 40 yards from goal sends it on for Favell looking to get onto it inside the box, Chimes coming around slides in to win the ball. Another change for Dunstable Khan’s stay on the bench short lived comes back on for Carty in the middle. Wade with another great defensive tackle gets across inside her box to prevent Morgan unleashing a shot as she is played on into the area. 

Billericay Town ladies, Georgia Box

  Billericay finish the half strongly getting on down the left the ball is fizzed inside towards Box the striker controlling well her 1st touch taking the ball in towards the area escaping her marker gives chase just a little too much on the ball again gives Payne time to get out to come kick the ball to safety. Dunstable break in the dying moment of the 1st half Khan with the ball right plays it into the centre with South getting up the pitch has Townsend-Brown to her left making a run into the area lets fly as she receives the ball, Billericay goalkeeper, Robyn Strauss coming to close the angle is able to hold onto the rising shot.

Half-time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

   A good 1st half from the visitors dominant on the ball leading 1-0 thanks to Lauren Bourne’s stunning 15th minute strike. More chances to extend the lead, Payne with some crucial saves the defence working hard for Dunstable keeping the lead down to just a single goal. Dunstable with little opportunity up the other end are far from out of the game as the sides emerge from the changing rooms for the 2nd half.

Changes for both sides at half-time, Rebecca Langthorpe on for Dunstable, Khan pushed up into an striking role alongside Moreton. Hope Strauss on for Billericay, replacing Armstrong. Operating wide right, Morgan dropping deeper, Favell into midfield Lauren Knight joining Box up front. Billericay to kick-off the 2nd half. The half getting off to a competitve start both sides looking to close the ball down quickly. Townsend-Brown getting away on the left for Dunstable her cross gathered at the near post by Strauss.

Billericay Town ladies, Dempsey Favell

 Lauren Knight putting the Dunstable defence under pressure as the ball is played into the corner on the right, Butler getting forwards to offer support Knight plays the ball to her then back to Knight her cross fired in towards the near post run Box threatening to nip in ahead of Payne coming towards the ball the striker getting a touch but only to take the ball out of play. Dunstable starting the 2nd half much better South getting the ball forwards into Khan back to goal right side has Stanton on the move on the wing the diagonal pass into her taking the ball on to the byline wins a corner kick. 

  Stanton getting forwards on the right again her cross fired in across the six yard box knocked out to Moreton positioned at the top of the area her strike charged down by Appleton. Dunstable good start has given them plenty of confidence are winning the 50/50 balls getting players into advanced positions, Billericay know they could do with a 2nd goal to quieten things down. Hope Strauss with the ball right plays it on for Butler making a run forwards her through ball into the box looking for Bourne, Payne reaching it 1st.

Nancy Butler passing the ball for Billericay Town Ladies

    Wade doing well at the back for Dunstable across to block Morgan’s cross the ball out for a throw Billericay have players forwards Morgan with another opportunity to put a cross in deeper this time cut out by Fisher coming back out to Morgan this time her cross flies across the six yard box Bourne coming in at the far post can’t quite get onto the end of it. The game is lively the action end to end Dunstable get forwards Khan picking the ball up has a run at the Billericay defence, Kirsty Knight putting the challenge in to win the ball take it away from the attack at the top of the box.

Stephanie Fisher clearing the ball for AFC Dunstable Ladies

Winning the ball at the back Wade looks up playing the ball into the middle his helped on out to the left side into the feet of Moffat taking the ball on down the wing fires a cross into the side netting. Moffat is replaced soon after with Carty returning to the field for Dunstable the home side sure they can find an equalising goal have the momentum. The ball is passed on into Khan peeling away to the right of goal in behind driving into the box Strauss comes racing out to close her down the attacker getting her shot past the keeper the ball heading towards goal the Billericay defence regrouping quickly are back on the cover Kirsty Knight clearing the ball off the line. 

Samaira Khan on the attack for AFC Dunstable Ladies

  Townsend-Brown with the ball left side sees her cross into the area cut out by Knight away for a corner, Dunstable on top with around 20 minutes left to play. Langthorpe is fouled as she brings the ball into the Billericay half. Carty over the free-kick in front of the centre circle a good ball lifted into the area dropping for South 8 yards out looks to see the ball down across her body turn into the shot, Kirsty Knight reading it closely marking her blocks the attempt. Billericay make a change Armstrong returning to the pitch in place of Favell. 

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Charlotte South

Carty seeing the ball down tries her luck from distance for the home side, on target Strauss is well placed in the Billericay goal to take the ball low into her body. Knight is shoved over by Khan as the Dunstable striker looks to get past her after the ball, despite winning the free-kick a few verbals from Knight booked see her booked. Billericay having to work hard to keep their lead in tack, Dunstable continue to press forwards. Dunstable with a free-kick inside the Billericay half Carty up into the box cleared Townsend-Brown has it left cuts the ball inside Carty forwards strikes the ball goalwards her shot looping up and dropping on target is taken high by Strauss.

 Is tense out there the game moving into the latter stages Dunstable on top in attack, Billericay defending well can’t get the ball into their own attackers to counter the game very much in the balance. Lauren Knight picking up the ball from a throw in on the right turns inside tries to get into the area, Langthorpe putting in the tackle to win the ball back for Dunstable. The home side with a late corner right side, put in near post Strauss comes in amongst the crowd to put the ball out for a 2nd corner delivered again to the near post a head puts in in at goal from close range, blocked saved or strikes the post I don’t know before being put behind for a 3rd corner as appeals for handball are made but nothing is given.

  Khan on the attack the ball passed to Townsend-Brown who sends it out to Chimes out wide her high ball into the area is met by South breaking clear of the Billericay defence her effort turned over the crossbar wouldn’t have counted to flag up for offside. An exciting 2nd half comes to an end the final whistle seeing Billericay hold on to their 1-0 lead to claim the 3 points that takes them 7 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division table.

Full time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

  A cliche I know but very much a game of two halves, with Billericay strong in the 1st half dominating the ball and creating plenty of chances scoring from one giving them a slender lead. A 2nd goal early in the 2nd half would have made things more comfortable, Dunstable coming out strong in the 2nd half regrouping and growing in confidence felt they could find an equaliser and it was Billericay who needed the strong defensive display in the end grinding out the win 3 point well earned.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   A game of two halves makes picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as hard as ever several good performances out their Billericay dominating the 1st half Morgan strong in the middle along with Butler, Kirsty Knight at the back particularly 2nd half. Overall it comes down to a consistent display for the entire game and today that goes to a player from the losing side, Elly Wade for Dunstable Ladies reading the game very good positioning and marking, covering when needed is today’s Player of the Match.

 Fancied a game form the ERWFL today, the regional leagues are often overlooked but an integral part of the women’s football pyramid, plenty of good players on show producing good quality entertaining and committed football if you haven’t checked out the league before I’d highly recommend it. My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams today.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 28/01/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

3 games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and with the league leaders Netherton United Ladies not in action it was another opportunity for the chasing sides to try and close the gap at the top.

St Ives Town Ladies moved back above Newmarket Town Ladies into 2nd spot with a home win against March Town United Ladies on Sunday. Winning the game 3-0 thanks to goals from Hannah Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe and Tierney Coulson. Move to within 6 points of Netherton United with 3 games in hand on the leaders.

   Newmarket Town Ladies closed the gap on Netherton United Ladies too on Sunday but by just the single point after they were held to a goalless draw away to ICA Sports Ladies, the Peterborough based side steadily improving picking up some useful results. Newmarket are 7 points back from Netherton United with 2 games in hand.

   Also in the Premiership, Cambridge City Ladies Development were at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday the visitors taking an early lead through Amanda Wainwright. Cambridge City had goalkeeper Jennifer Jamieson to thank for keeping the scoreline down to a single goal at the break and although Cambridge University pushed hard for more goals in the 2nd half, Cambridge City’s young players found the resolve to keep them out and counter to score an equaliser to take a point from the game, Yasmin Crow on target scoring to make it 1-1.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

2 matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday. Riverside Ladies building on last weekends opening win made it 2 from 2 with a big away result against bottom side Orton Rangers Ladies. A Peterborough derby this one Sophie Harris top scoring for Riverside netting 5 goals. Samantha Woodham and Jade Ramm both scoring a brace with Zoe Lenton, Jess Hill and Jordan Sampson also on target in a 12-0 win.

    4th placed Hungate Rovers Ladies move onto 10 points as they secured their 3rd win of the season away to Spalding United Ladies on Sunday. Kelsey McKenna scoring twice in the game (one from the penalty spot) with Ewelina Jerzak also getting on the scoresheet in a 3-0 win.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup with Histon Ladies home match against Wisbech Town Ladies postponed for a 2nd Sunday and Wisbech St Mary Ladies awarded an away win against Burwell Tigers. Championship South leaders, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were hosting Premiership bottom side Park Ladies for a place in the next round. Marie Stubbings is in blazing goal scoring form for Fulbourn and she continued to find the back of the net this Sunday getting another hat-trick to move her onto 30 goals for the season. Stacey Kemp was also on target for two goals with Marcela Mundz also getting a goal in a 6-1 win to see the home side progress.