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Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Writtle Ladies

Wednesday 6th September

The midweek football action on Women’s Football East comes from the ERWFL Premier Division with newly promoted Division One Champions hosting Writtle Ladies at Huntingdon Town FC.

A clash between two sides that have enjoyed a similar rise through the leagues celebrating back to back promotions from county level into the regional leagues promoted from Division One into the ERWFL Premier Division.

Entering the regional setup as Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Champions last season Cambridge City Ladies pretty much led the way from start to finish to win the title and earn promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division. A strong youth setup within the club players ready to come through and step up to the 1st team. Their Development side new last season also winning their respective league to earn promotion. Started life at the higher level with a 7-0 win against Colchester Town Ladies. Followed that up by beating Northamptonshire side Moulton Ladies at home 8-2 in the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Women’s Cup last Sunday.

Writtle Ladies too have been among the goals in their opening 2 fixtures. Promoted to the ERWFL last season their 3rd successive promotion the side held their own in the league finishing comfortably in mid-table. A stable squad coming through the leagues together have added winger Lynsey Bowman from Silver End United Ladies to their squad this season. Earned a point in their opening league match away to AFC Dunstable Ladies a thrilling game that saw both sides score 5 each. Courtney Clarke netting a hat-trick away to AFC Sudbury Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup this past Sunday it wasn’t enough however as AFC Sudbury hit the back of their net 4 times to knock Writtle Ladies out of the cup.

Huntingdon Town FC the venue for tonight’s match under the lights at Jubilee Park, have been here before a couple of times when Huntingdon Town Ladies still plied their trade. A new clubhouse and changing room, huge carpark a multi pitch sports site the game tonight on the main pitch. A large pitch wide too a good covering of grass looked in good condition a little bobbly. The weather a little cooler of late a bit of damp in the air but dry and still the floodlights taking full effect as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Bronte Rapley, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Emily Reed, Sarah Mosley, Stacey Fullicks, Charlotte Gillies, Carla Penny, Bella Simmons & Philippa Witherspoon. Subs – Hayley Turner & Anna Kanz

Writtle Ladies starting XI – Jessica Barrow, Kayleigh Franklin, Lucy Jones, Niamh Gamble, Zoe Smith, Ellie Bowdidge, Caroline Brown, Abigail Fry (C), Lynsey Bowman, Courtney Clarke & Amy Simmonds. Subs – Hannah Mold, Sophie Vale & Faith Candice

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Writtle to kick off the 1st half wearing their change strip of red shirts with black across the top of the chest and sleeves, black shorts and socks with Cambridge wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Cambridge start on the front foot winning the ball inside Writtle’s half and attacking down the left Carla Penny on the ball tackled by Writtle’s Kayleigh Franklin for a throw in. Full back Lauren Tomlinson has a long throw in her sends it up into the box headed out Cambridge press around the edge of the area striker Bella Simmons fouled a free kick given 25 yards out to the left, Bronte Rapley over the set-piece sends the ball in high towards the far post goalkeeper Jessica Barrow gets her gloves on the ball misdirecting it behind for the corner kick.

The delivery towards the near post Writtle’s Zoe Smith heading the ball out of the area the visitors can’t get the ball out of their half Cambridge winning the ball back, Stacey Fullicks out to Charlotte Gillies on the right taking the ball on Rapley going past her the two linking up a high all into the area the header won by Writtle’s Niamh Gamble. Cambridge renew an attack right win a throw in the ball inside to Simmons outside the area fires in a shot held by Barrow. 5 minutes on the clock before Writtle get the ball into the Cambridge half the ball put long with Amy Simmons holding it up outside the area right of the D players getting forwards in support to her left rolls it across the D met by Courtney Clarke her 1st time strike rasping past the post wide.

Tomlinson comes forwards to take another long throw on the left high towards the top of the area striker Philippa Witherspoon gets up highest looking to head the ball across the area find Bella Simmons, Gamble s in front of her heads the ball clear. Battling for the ball 35 yards out Witherspoon’s persistence pays off as almost sends Simmons through on goal, Smith getting across to put in the tackle win the ball just outside the box. A quick counter attack by Writtle Caroline Brown with the pass for Amy Simmons moving clear on the right her early cross intercepted and clear by Cambridge captain Becca Fay inside her six yard box. Writtle regain the ball delivered high into the box put behind for the corner.

Players forwards from the back for the corer delivered to the near post Gamble meeting the ball with her head puts it wide of the mark. Cambridge on the right Penny getting forwards support from Tomlinson, Franklin cuts out the attempted cross the rebound finding Bella Simmons outside the area 20 yards out left of goal shoots the ball blocked by Gamble. Neither side is able to retain the ball for long a combination of rushed or long passes and an uneven pitch. Cambridge going long Writtle are well organised at the back the full backs keeping wide standing up to their opposing players. Aware of the threat from Tomlinson’s long throws Smith does well inside her area with Simmons coming towards her to direct her header safely back to her goalkeeper.

Clarke drives on left side for Writtle support from Lynsey Bowman the ball into the winger taking the ball down to the byline her cross cleared by Emily Reed. Getting scrappy in the middle the ball not being retained one side has it then given away little goalmouth action through balls not finding their intended target frustration creeping in. Fullicks with the tackle on halfway releases the ball into Gillies in a central position a flick to move the ball on past her marker takes a run at the Writtle back line Lucy Jones not letting her past.

A free-kick in the right corner for Writtle the ball whipped in high along the six yard box goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru jumps up arms up to claim the ball doesn’t get it cleanly as she footing is taken from under her but adjusts well as she falls to pull the ball into her body. Half an hour played Cambridge make a change Witherspoon coming off, Hayley Turner coming on up front. Ellie Bowdidge getting forwards through the middle strikes the ball on the volley as it is squared to her from the left 25 yards out the ball is put straight into the keepers gloves.

Writtle finding a little more of the ball in the latter stages of the 1st half as Cambridge give the ball away. Clarke is away on the right with the ball at her feet running cuts the ball in towards the D with captain Abigail Fry bombing forwards, Sarah Mosley with her puts in the challenge as the ball arrives loops up towards goal Mhunduru claiming on her goal line. Mhunduru then with a superb reactive save as Clarke drives at the area to the left of her goal fires in a vicious strike coming at the goalkeeper quickly leaning back tips the ball up onto the crossbar not out of play Amy Simmons tries to get to the falling ball the Cambridge defence getting back scramble it clear.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-0 Writtle Ladies

All square at the break little quality on the ball a scrappy game neither side settling to any rhythm no one finding time on the ball. Cambridge started strongly with intent but it fell away Writtle strong at the back ending the half on the front foot building momentum coming the closest to scoring.

Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd half, Sophie Vale on for Simmons up front for Writtle. Anna Kanz is on for Cambridge going into central defence with Reed pushed up into the middle Mosley the player off. Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway. An early chance for Gillies as she is released in behind by Penny taking the ball inside into the box is closing in on goal caught in two minds whether to shoot or cross Barrow stands tall at her near post and it’s a simple catch as the ball is put straight at her.

Bowman getting forwards with the ball on the left sends her cross into the area, Fay heading clear. Clarke picking it up left tries to go forwards Fullicks getting on her to tackle and put the ball out for the throw. Kanz stands up well against Clarke as the attacker looks to flick on Bowman’s pass to her on the right tackled the ball out for the throw. Initially cleared Writtle have bodies forwards the ball whipped back into the area Fry looking to attack in Mhunduru makes the claim at the near post.

A big pitch space is available however passes continue to go astray. Clarke looking a threat for Writtle now with her power and pace takes the ball on down the left channel whips in a cross along the top of the six yard box, Vale is closest making a run far post but can’t reach it. Fullicks winning the challenge on halfway picks out Rapley with the pass right as the full back bombs forwards looking to take on Jones the two come together Rapley down needing treatment needs to come off. Sees Mosley back on a change at the back with Fullicks dropping to centreback along side Fay, Kanz out to right back.

GOAL! 10 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken a great ball through the middle picks out Bowman timing her run in behind on the left carrying the ball into the area the angle closing rapidly she wraps her foot around the ball and fires a powerful shot up over the keeper into the roof of the net to score 0-1.

Clarke has picked up an injury and can’t continue coming off Amy Simmons comes back on. Writtle come on again Bowdidge and Brown linking up through the middle releasing Bowman once again on the left her early cross intercepted by Kanz. Got hold up play from Turner outside the box for Cambridge has Gillies coming on to her left back to goal rolls the ball into her path Gillies looks to drive into the box Smith goes with her keeping on her feet prevents the cross coming in. Writtle always ready to counter attack Fry getting forwards playing a one two with Vale outside the area looking to get onto the return ball inside the D, Fullicks steps up to put in the challenge win the ball.

Cambridge make a change bringing Simmons off in attack sending Witherspoon back on. Writtle too making a switch with Hannah Mold coming on for Bowman seeing a shift in shape allowing the full backs to get on more with 20 minutes left to play. A throw on the left fr Writtle inside the Cambridge half the ball played inside to Brown outside the box fires in a shot coming straight at Mhunduru plenty of pace on the strike gloves it up into the air almost threatens to sneak in behind her but turning sharply plucks the ball out of the air.

A frustrating game for both sides frustration creeping in referee Chris Abbott needing to have a word with a few players. The tempo is good Cambridge giving the ball away Writtle stretching them the back line winning most thing’s launched forwards. Reed plays the ball inside for Gillies moving forwards lays the pass to Mosley going with her her strike from 25 yards out screws wide of the Writtle goal. Simmons comes off for Writtle Faith Candice coming on with 15 minutes left.

Needing to find a goal to get back into the game Cambridge go to 3 at the back Fullicks moving up field into a more advanced role with Reed moving into a defensive midfield role in front of the defence. Vale sends her shot on the turn from a throw deep on the left up onto the bar as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. Fry goes down in the box after getting up to try an attack a Jones free-kick played into the area struggling is taken off Bowman returning to the action.

Cambridge push on late in the game Fullicks to Gillies right on for Witherspoon a throw in won the ball then crossed in long towards the far post Turner attacking it close range on top of the keeper the ball knocked up onto the crossbar, then placed wide a corner signalled as players scramble to reach the ball. The corner from the left headed clear of the box to the right side Mosley picking it up fired back across the area plenty of white shirts that side a shot is fired in the ball hitting the bar for the 2nd time. Cambridge have Writtle pushed back around their area winning a corner left the ball comes in central Fay stooping into the header lifts her attempt over the bar from inside the six yard box.

Barrow saves near post as the ball is fired in Cambridge pushing hard as the game moves into stoppage time everyone back for Writtle. Witherspoon battling forwards with the ball into the box Gamble defending well against her with both closing in on the keeper the corner conceded the ball attacked near post is headed wide along the face of goal. Writtle launch it up field as the final whistle is blown.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 0-1 Writtle Ladies

Writtle win their 1st 3 points of the season 4 points from 2 league games Lynsey Bowman’s strike the difference between the 2 sides and after conceding 8 goals in their opening 2 games the clean sheet as pleasing two the defence working hard throughout the game. Was a scrappy affair under the lights ball retention not at its best. A bright start from Cambridge seemed to lose their way a little finishing strong at the end the woodwork struck by both sides might have been a 3-2 on another night.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to a defender the Writtle back line composed and organised not letting much get in behind players staying on their feet keeping with their runners picking one over the other is difficult but I’ve gone for Zoe Smith whose positioning was good though out the game.

Not the prettiest of games tonight but still I always enjoy a game under the lights my thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 03/09/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd September

FAWPL Cup Determining Round

A break in the league action in the FAWPL this weekend as the sides across the 6 Division’s begin the FAWPL Cup competition into its 4th season now beginning with a Determining Round the sides meeting with those victorious progressing into the 1st Round of the Cup those losing out going on to compete in the FAWPL Plate. The FAWPL Southern Division has dominated the Cup competition since its conception Charlton Athletic Women winning it 3 seasons ago, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies successfully retaining the trophy they won in 2015/16 this May. Likewise the Plate, for the past two season’s won by FAWPL Southern Division, Coventry United Ladies then followed by Lewes FC Women last season. Will be a new name on both trophies this time around with Tottenham promoted to FAWSL 2 and Lewes winning their FAWPL Cup Determining Round to enter the Cup proper, will sides from the Southern and South East continue to dominate? Alot of goals scored this weekend with some huge scores racked up.

Onto the weekends action and we’ll start with Lewes FC Women who were at home at The Dripping Pan taking on South West Division One side Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies. All square at 1-1 after 90 minutes it took the Southern Division side extra-time to beat their lower league opponents. Lewes created plenty of opportunities 1st half, Southampton battling hard to defend held them to a goalless score at half-time actually took the lead 2nd half Sabrina Morriss-Manoslava scoring in the 58th minute. Lewes were quick to reply Amy Taylor scoring the equaliser 5 minutes later. No more goals scored in regular time the tie headed to extra-time. Lewes went all the way to penalties against Cambridge United WFC last season losing the entered the Plate… the rest is history. This time the game didn’t get that far, Leeta Rutherford and Dani lane both finding the extra half hour to see Lewes win 3-1.

It was always going to be a big test for South East Division One newcomers Haringey Borough Women in the Determining Round after they were drawn away to Coventry United Ladies the FAWPL Southern Division powerhouse scoring 8 goals before half-time doubled that score in the 2nd half to win 16-1. The scoring opened in the 6th minute by Stephanie Smith went on to add a hat-trick of goals 2nd half giving her 4 in the game. 4 goals too for substitute Helen Dermody. Leah Seivwright and Alison Hall both scoring twice in the 1st half, Marie Gauntlett introduced 2nd half also grabbing 2 goals. Keeley Davies and Jade Brook also scoring in the 1st half. Haringey’s tough start to life in the FAWPL continues.

Crystal Palace Ladies are the early leaders in the FAWPL Southern Division a hot goal scoring form already were at home to Brislington Ladies from South West Division One in the Determining Round powered their way into a 6-0 lead at half-time, Nikita Whinnett opening the scoring as early as the 2nd minute. Rosie Payne had them 2-0 up inside 5 minutes, Gemma Bryan grabbing a 1st half brace along with Whinnett, Ciara Sherwood making it 6-0 in the 42nd minute. Ellie Bailes made it 7-0 2 minutes into the 2nd half Bryan completing her hat-trick 5 minutes later. Jodie Arkell pulling a goal back for Brislington before both Sherwood and Payne added a 2nd goal each in a 10-1 win.

Charlton Athletic Women went 1 goal better with a double figure win away to fellow Southern Division side Swindon Town Ladies. New signing Ellie Dorey scoring a 1st half hat-trick for the visitors. Charlotte Lee and Charlotte Gurr both scoring in the 1st half to see Charlton 5-0 up. Gurr going on to score another early 2nd half then complete her hat-trick with 15 minutes left. Before that Charley Clifford netted a brace with Hope Nash getting a goal on the hour mark. Dorey making it 11-0 with her 4th with 5 minutes left.

A high score too at Canvey Island FC for C&K Basildon Ladies at home to South West Division One side Basingstoke Town Ladies in the Determining Round, Angela Addison getting her name on the scoresheet 5 times. Jay Blackie too with her 1st goals of the season scoring a hat-trick as the Essex side ran out 8-0 winners.

Portsmouth FC Ladies fine start to the season continued this Sunday in the Determining Round as they made it 3 wins in a row to advance into the Cup proper. Away to fellow Southern Division side QPR Ladies, goals from Jade Widdowson, Molly Clark and Natasha Stephens securing a 3-0 victory.

Cardiff City Ladies had lost their opening 2 Southern Division games made the long trip to Norfolk to play South East Division One side Norwich City Ladies in the Determining Round. A hat-trick for Cori Williams plus a goal each for Ella Powell and Kelly Issac saw them through comfortably with a 5-0 win.

Chichester City Ladies at home to West Ham United Ladies was the other all Southern Division tie to be played in the Determining Round on Sunday. The league newcomers had lost their opening two league fixtures into the cup and Chichester City picked up their 1st victory of the season Jess Lewry giving them a 1-0 first half lead scoring in the 13th minute. Doubled their lead on the hour mark. West ham United pulled it back to 2-1 with less than 15 minutes left Charlotte Burr finding the back of the net. Two late goals for Chichester City saw them through with a 4-1 win Cherelle Khassel scoring with 3 minutes left, Chloe Tucker on 90 minutes.

Nicole Emmings early goal for Stevenage Ladies was enough for the FAWPL South East Division One side to beat Southern Division opponents Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday in the Determining Round as the lower division side defended well to keep Gillingham from getting back on level terms.

FAWPL South East Division One leaders Actonians Ladies headed to Gloucestershire to play South West counterparts, Cheltenham Town Ladies in this weekends Determining Round. The visitors coming home narrow winners with Jessica Byrne and Catherine Murphy scoring in a 2-1 win, Louise Fensome netting for Cheltenham.

Rivalry resumed this Sunday as Milton Keynes Dons Ladies met AFC Wimbledon Ladies for the 2nd successive weekend. Wimbledon won last week at home in the league were the away side this time a closely fought contest in the Determining Round they emerged as winners again a single goal settling the tie scored by Katie Stanley 2 minutes into the 2nd half.

Cambridge United WFC made the long trip west to play South West Division One side St Nicholas Ladies. Teonie Payton was making her 1st team start after impressing for the Reserves last season and celebrated by scoring 2 goals. Also stepping up from the Reserves, striker Lauren Gibson scored her 1st goal for the 1st team this season, aswell as new signing Amy Howlett. Emma Jenkins also amongst the goalscorers for Cambridge in a 5-0 win.

Another South East Division One side making a long trip west on Sunday in the Determining Round was Ipswich Town Ladies again against South West opposition, Larkhall Athletic Ladies. Cassandra Craddock returning to the club this season scoring a hat-trick in the game. Sophie Welton also bagging a brace. Victoria Campbell, Jade Henry and Roxanne Small also adding to the goals tally in an 8-1 win.

0-0 between Enfield Town Ladies and South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies at half-time there were 5 goals scored in the 2nd half, Keynsham with 2 goals a hat-trick from Enfield Town captain Reagan Coleman including a penalty saw the home side with the Determining Round tie 3-2.

Leyton Orient WFC newly promoted to South East Division One travelled to fellow league side Luton Town Ladies in the Determining Round looking for their 1st win of the season against a side that had started well with 2 wins from 2. Jess Mckay put Luton into the lead. Leyton Orient came back to lead 2-1 by half-time Sophie Le Marchand and Belen Ripoll-Douton with the goals Nicola Henman got Luton back to 2-2 2nd half before Ellie Davies gave Leyton Orient the lead again in the 67th minute. Ella Meadowcroft securing the win with 3 minutes left for the visitors Leyton Orient winning 4-2.

Denham United Ladies travelled down to the south coast to play South West Division One side Southampton Women, despite goals form Sophie Cheadle and Alissa Down the South East Division One side enter the Plate competition losing 4-2 Laura Vokes with a brace along with goals for Emma Pinner and Kellie Warren with the goal for Southampton.

The draws for both competition soon to be made.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 03/09/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd September

FA Women’s Cup

This Sunday saw the start of this season’s FA Women’s Cup with 31 sides in the East entering the competition in 1st Round Qualifying. Regionalised at this stage of the competition to limit travelling for clubs still a few lengthy journeys made at the weekend across 18 ties plenty of goals scored too winning clubs earning £350 along with advancing to the next round with the draw having already been made, will bring you that at the end of The Round-Up.

It was the FA Women’s Cup where the match report for Women’s Football East came from this weekend a trip on Sunday to The Rigdeons Stadium in Newmarket to watch Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Newmarket Town Ladies take on higher league opponents, Histon Ladies playing this season in the ERWFL Division One North. A bright start from Newmarket advancing an early cross seeing Abbie Marshall’s strike from the top of the box smash against the crossbar. Histon finding room in behind created opportunities of their own winger Abigail Davies coming closest with a strike against the post. Just 2 minutes left in the 1st half and it was the visitors who took the lead a free-kick wide right sent in far post Charlotte Westrope on hand to head the ball into the back of the net. Into 1st half stoppage time Newmarket got themselves back on level terms the ball helped onto Abbi Griffin moving into the area from the right rifling a shot into the top corner. All square at the break.

Histon came out strong 2nd half putting Newmarket on the back foot however it was the home side who went onto take a 2-1 lead winning a corner on the right the ball swung in headed home by captain Beth Woodfield. 2-1 became 3-1 after Histon goalkeeper Keeley Robinson was adjudged to have carried the ball out of her area taking a kick the 2nd time she had done so in the game the 1st time Jordanne Sillitoe had sent her shot wide. This time Jess Linger on the ball drilled it low into the bottom corner to score. Histon weren’t out of it Davies with a run on the right sent her cross shot from outside the box into the goal to make it 3-2. Newmarket responded well with a free-kick wide left Linger went for goal her strike cannoning off the near post rebounded back into Lauren Deller the substitute putting the shot in from 8 yards to make it 4-2, was to have a late goal also chalked off for off-side didn’t matter as Newmarket Town Ladies reached the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time.

FA Women’s Cup debutants, King’s Lynn Town Ladies will be Newmarket’s opponents in 2nd Round Qualifying after they won on the road against Leicestershire side Oadby & Wigston Dynamo Ladies. Becky Russell opened the scoring with new signing Tiffany Forshaw also getting her 1st competitive goal to see King’s Lynn with a 2-1 lead at half-time. 2nd half the win was secured after Russell was on hand inside the six yard box to tap the ball home after captain Shelley Woods saw her long range free-kick tipped onto the post. 3-1 the winning score.

An all Norfolk tie between Sprowston Ladies young guns and Wymondham Town Ladies who have caused a shock or two in the FA Women’s Cup in recent season’s. Avoided any giant killing at the weekend the ERWFL Division One North side winning 4-0 with goals from new signings Nadine Basson and Alice Ladbrooke along with a brace for Laura Wiseman. Wymondham will be at home in 2nd Round Qualifying against Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies who were making their FA Women’s Cup debut away to Northamptonshire side Roade Ladies coming out victorious by a single goal to make progress.

Bungay Town Ladies were in the FA Women’s Cup once again and on the road in 1st Round Qualifying as they were last season away to Bishops Stortford then winning 3-1 faced a tougher test this time around taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Colchester Town Ladies. two leagues higher Bungay took an early lead Emily Leach putting the ball home from a free-kick on 10 minutes, Colchester responded straight away to draw level the score level at 1-1 at half-time. New signing Selina Rowland put Bungay back in front in the 2nd half then Becky Hills also new to the team this season made it 3-1. Colchester getting it back to 3-2, Hills with her 2nd of the game late on ensuring the win for Bungay. Nancy Butler and Georgia Box scoring for Colchester. Another long away trip for Bungay in 2nd Round Qualifying.

Harlow Town Ladies will be their opponents as they over came fellow ERWFL Division One South side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies at the Harlow Arena on Sunday. Scoring 2 goals in both halves Harlow advanced through to the next round. Nicole Leaner opening the scoring on 20 minutes, Fran Gamble heading home soon after to double the lead. Goals from Abbie Dell and Chloe Bassett sealing the 4-0 victory in Harlow’s 1st competitive game of the season.

Local rivals Billericay Town Ladies and Brentwood Town Ladies will meet in 2nd Round Qualifying after both ERWFL Premier Division sides won big against lower league opponents on Sunday. Billericay Town Ladies at home to Essex Women’s Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies. 3 players netting a brace in the game, Paris Smith, Nicole Farmer and Lauren Knight. With captain Lindsey Morgan and Hayley Piggott also scoring in an 8-0 win.

Brentwood Town Ladies were also at home in 1st Round Qualifying taking on Essex Women’s Premier Division newcomers Corringham Cosmos making their FA Women’s Cup debut. Brentwood too strong on the day new signing Rosi Webb scoring a hat-trick, goals too for Holly Griffin, Leah Cowan and Georgia Holdaway the final score 6-0.

A 7 goal thriller in the all ERWFL Premier Division clash between AFC Sudbury Ladies and Writtle Ladies. Courtney Clarke with a hat-trick for the Essex side. AFC Sudbury winning the game 4-3 with goals from Mia Etheridge, Sophie Jeffery, Megan Partridge and Stacey Teager. AFC Sudbury Ladies will be away to Essex Women’s Premier Division side Frontiers Ladies in the next round.

Goals from Georgie Elsom and Annie Posnett saw Riverside Ladies beat Corby Town Ladies 2-1 in 1st Round Qualifying and set up a away trip to Norfolk to play ERWFL Premier Division side Acle United Ladies after they defeated Northamptonshire side Thrapston Town Ladies on home soil at the weekend. Megan Todd netting a hat-trick in the game with Lauren Bullard also scoring in a 4-1 victory.

Bishops Stortford Ladies met fellow ERWFL Division One South side Hertford Town Ladies away from home for the 2nd successive Sunday winning 3-0 in the lead then a closer result this time in the cup, Bishops Stortford advancing to 2nd Round Qualifying for the 1st time winning by a single goal scored by Marie-Pier Allard midway through the 1st half. Bishops Stortford will be away to ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Dunstable Ladies in the next round after they overcame Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side Houghton Athletic Ladies 5-0 at Creasey Park on Sunday evening.

A big win for Royston Town Ladies at home on Sunday in 1st Round Qualifying taking on Watford Ladies Development in the FA Women’s Cup. A brace for Gemma Croucher along with goals for Amy Cooper, Erin Davies, Becky Shephard and Sammy Tinsley securing a 7-0 win will be on the road in 2nd Round Qualifying taking on fellow ERWFL Premier Division opponents Colney Heath Ladies after they secured a 4-1 victory away to Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side, Garston Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying, their goalscorers, Lucy Hancock, Samantha May, Holly Sheridan and Charis Wakefield.

March Town United Ladies were knocked out of the FA Women’s Cup by visitors Peterborough United Ladies on Sunday the EMWFL Division One South winning 5-0 after eventually breaking down a stubborn March resistance late in the 1st half Keir Perkins and Jess Driscoll from the penalty spot to make it 2-0 before going on to score 3 more 2nd half both Perkins and Driscoll scoring again with Amy Challis also on target. Will be away to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the next round.

Bedford Ladies needed extra-time to see off opponents Milton Keynes City Ladies and book their place in 2nd Round Qualifying on Sunday. Away from home the sides were all square at 2-2 come the 90 minutes Bedford going on to add 2 more goals in the extra period to progress with both Natasha Fensome and Maya Sidhu getting 2 goals a piece. Bedford will be away to Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies in the next round.

Finally Cambridge City Ladies were at home in 1st Round Qualifying taking on Northamptonshire side Moulton Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup had started their season with a 7-0 home victory in the league continued that goal scoring form this Sunday as they ran out 8-2 winners to set up another home tie in 2nd Round Qualifying against Kettering Town Ladies. Both Bella Simmons and Carla Penny scoring 2 goals each. Captain Emily Reed also scoring along with goals for Stacey Fullicks, Megan Tonks and Hayley Turner.

Ties for 2nd Round Qualifying will be played Sunday 17th September those featuring clubs in the East listed below,

Newmarket Town Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Acle United Ladies v Riverside Ladies

Harlow Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies v Bedford Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies

Brentwood Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Frontiers Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies v Royston Town Ladies

Cambridge City Ladies v Kettering Town Ladies

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

AFC Dunstable Ladies v Bishops Stortford Ladies

The Round-Up – ERWFL 03/09/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd September

ERWFL Division One North

With most of the sides from the ERWFL entering the FA Women’s Cup, 1st Round Qualifying this Sunday there were just the two games played in the league in the ERWFL both the Division One. In Division One North, Cambridge United WFC Reserves were entertaining 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers Ladies who had started their season with a win and a draw. Cambridge came into the game with a 1-0 win under their belts over Ipswich Ladies Development after suffering an opening day loss to Histon Ladies. A tight game a single goal enough to see Cambridge secure all three points again Natalie Wells with the goal the win sending Cambridge to the top of the Division One North table.

ERWFL Division One South

The slow start to ERWFL Division One South continues with the single game in that league seeing Stevenage Ladies Reserves get their season off to a flyer laying down a marker to their rivals with a double figure win at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Becky Day opening her season with a hat-trick top scoring, their were braces too for Holly Darling, Hannah Marshall and Daniela Martucci with Emily Scofield also getting in on the goal scoring the +10 goal difference sending Stevenage Ladies Reserves to the top of the league. Harlow Town Ladies finally get their league campaign started in midweek at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies. Hutton Ladies will be playing catch up when they finally make their league bow scheduled for October at the moment, cup games to come before that.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Histon Ladies

Sunday 3rd September

The Road to Wembley begins here. The SSE FA Women’s Cup begins this Sunday with 1st Round Qualifying featuring 87 ties as more clubs enter the competition than ever. New entrants to the competition across the East too with 33 sides entering at this. Today’s game is from The Ridgeons Stadium in Newmarket with Newmarket Town Ladies taking on Histon Ladies for a place in the next round.

This is Newmarket Town Ladies 1st competitive match of the season with the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership starting next Sunday. Shane Lebbon takes charge of the 1st team this season. Several players coming in a few moving on. The club as seen a number of players join from the folded Brandon Town Ladies, defender Ellie Marshall along with Frankie Torrance, Brooke Wickens. Jordanne Sillitoe dual signed with opponents Histon last season is on Newmarket’s books alone this season. Youngsters Megan Kane and Laura Bailey also join. Sarah O Rourke, Kate Silver, Cara Ager-Hutty and after today’s match Jennifer Gray formerly of Ipswich Town Ladies is a new addition to the squad. A competitive pre-season schedule against higher league with some good results along the way has given Newmarket confidence ahead of today’s match against higher league opposition.

Histon Ladies are competing in the new ERWFL Division One South following relegation from the Premier Division the previous season their 1st under the Histon banner having previously been Great Shelford Ladies. Despite dropping down a league the club is strengthening building a sustainable pyramid from youth to senior for the future in partnership with Histon FC who had a girls youth set-up the merger with Great Shelford to form Histon Ladies last season is bolstered this season with the formation of Histon Ladies Reserves which will provide competition for places with the 1st team. Both sides getting to play their home matches at The Glassworld Stadium. Have retained much of last season’s squad bringing in Grace Parker from Bar Hill Ladies. Began their league season 2 weeks ago with a god 4-0 win against rivals Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

The Ridgeons Stadium featuring a state of the art cork based all-weather surface a great looking pitch to play on. The kitchen serving food and hot drinks a seated stand beside the changing rooms. An overcast day cooler than in recent days a light breeze blowing across the ground, no rain forecast however. £350 up for grabs for the winners along with a home tie in 2nd Round Qualifying against either Northamptonshire side Oadby & Wigston Dynamo Ladies or Norfolk’s King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Frankie Torrance, Ellie Marshall, Beth Woodfield (C), Jess Linger, Laura Bailey, Abbi Griffin, Abbie Marshall, Chloe Slater & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Antonia Smith, Brooke Wickens, Dominika Szary, Hollie Turner & Lauren Deller

Histon Ladies starting XI – Keeley Robinson, Katie Webb, Lucy Julian, Claire Andrews, Grace Parker, Sophie Lanham (C), Hannah Gordon, Abigail Davies, Charlotte Westrope, Alison Wright & Sophie Hopkin. Subs – Tessa Shaw, Danielle Busby, Georgina Westrope, Harriett Wilkerson & Amanda Binge.

Histon get this FA Women’s Cup 1st Round Qualifying tie underway wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. Newmarket lined up wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The ball is played wide to right back Katie Webb she looks to send the ball on down the line for Abigail Davies on the wing ahead of her making the run Davies catches the Newmarket defence flat footed but that goes against her as she has strayed offside the flag up halting her attack.

Histon attack early on a good diagonal ball sent through the middle for striker Sophie Hopkin to attack, Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield at centreback closes her down challenges for the ball pops loose Histon captain Sophie Lanham in close support goes for it as does Newmarket’s Chloe Slater a coming together leaves Lanham n a lot of pain on the floor clutching her ankle. The trainer is sent on takes Lanham a few minutes to get back to her feet walking gingerly in her ankle comes of for it to be assessed the visitors down to 10 for the moment.

Newmarket very nearly capitalise as they attack down the right Abbi Griffin on the ball comes forwards has Jordanne Sillitoe available for the ball top right corner of the area the pair play a one two with Griffin sending in a cross along the top of the area, Abbie Marshall is free to receive the ball inside the D letting the ball come onto her sends it in 90 degrees looping towards goal, has goalkeeper Keeley Robinson beaten smashes against the crossbar bouncing back down into play Histon getting it clear for a throw in on the left.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbie Marshall

Lanham is allowed back on her movement much improved. Newmarket have started brightly have the ball right side attacking rolled into Sillitoe shoots from the angle Robinson raising her hands isn’t bothered sees it run wide of her far post. Sillitoe with another strike at goal as Slater winning the ball in the middle brings it forwards rolls it into the striker top of the box right of the D cuts across the ball sending the ball wide of the near post. Histon when they have the ball are looking for find their wide players Davies right and Charlotte Westrope on the left win a free-kick that side 30 yards from goal Lanham over the set-piece drills the ball in towards goal runs wide at the near post.

A good tempo to the match both sides ready to launch counter attacks, Newmarket get forwards on the left Abbie Marshall driving on with the ball at her feet squares a cross in along the top of the box just behind Sillitoe runs on to Griffin arriving late, Histon’s Lucy Julian at left back eases her off the ball. Up the other end Davies is constantly spinning in behind offering an outlet gets beyond Frankie Torrance this time cutting the ball square along the top of the six yard line Hopkin waiting far post, Beth Woodfield lunging for the ball gets there first putting it behind for the corner. Lanham to deliver the corner coming in near post defender Claire Andrews attacks the ball 8 yards out drills her header wide.

The game has settled down a little Histon finding a little more time in possession. Davies is clearly a threat on the right as players are drawn inside with the visitors overloading the left the diagonal ball sees Davies with and open field ahead of her Torrance races to catch the winger as she surges into the box pulling her right foot back puts everything into the shot strikes the ball hard, goalkeeper Eloise Hope dives to her left the ball strikes the post hard spinning out of play.

Histon’s Abigerail Davies lining up a strike that eventually thunders against post

Great link up play between Abbie Marshall and Laura Bailey as the pair work the ball up the left forcing their way through Histon, Hannah Gordon with the challenge on Bailey 30 yards out the ball squirms on through to Sillitoe in space just outside the D central doesn’t wait to be closed down takes on the shot putting the ball wide of the left goalpost. Slater out for Griffin right side she takes on the defender ahead of her getting past her into the box, Grace Parker dives forwards into challenge the ball sending it out for the throw in. Keeping the ball alive Newmarket flash a cross in towards the near post Robinson claims the low ball well.

A good spell for Newmarket more attacking down the right the high ball into the area is attacked by Bailey getting forwards doesn’t get a clean header the ball remains in play Abbie Marshall sees her shot blocked by Andrews before Robinson grabs the ball into her body. Is an exciting opening half an hour both sides creating chances Histon build from the back the ball into Alison Wright on long for Davies on the right running beyond the Newmarket defend screws the ball back towards the top of the area right side, Gordon advancing looks to get onto the end of it, so to does Newmarket central defender Ellie Marshall the ball is caught in between the pair could go anywhere as it is it loops up and back across the six yard box, falling for Hopkin she attempts to strike it on the volley a difficult chance can’t direct it on target.

Histon’s Katie Webb with Newmarket’s Abbie Marshall

Robinson is called into action making a good save for Histon as Newmarket get hold of the ball in the middle Jess Linger on for Bailey sends the ball on for Abbie Marshall coming inside from the left takes the ball across the face of the area moving right 20 yards out finds room for a shot driven in low skipping off the surface Robinson getting down pushes the ball away from her goal. Marshall comes off after the attack as Newmarket make their 1st change of the match early on, Brooke Wickens joining the game taking up the position vacant by Marshall on the left.

Wickens 1st taste of the action is to have the ball smashed into her chest from a yard out, the referee stops play seeing she needs a moment to recover clearly winded. Davies remains a handful on the right enjoying a good tussle with Torrance at left back the latter sliding in to give away the corner as Davies drives for the byline. A pacy ball put into a great area by Lanham into the six yard box, Gordon closest can’t untangle her legs to get it turned towards goal. A bit of momentum with Histon as the 1st half draws to a close Hopkins coming deeper for the ball rolled into her feet 25 yards out left of goal turns and strikes it goalwards. A confident save by Hope the ball coming at her with pace head high is well positioned palms the ball down and collects.

Histon Ladies, Hannah Gordon

GOAL! 2 minutes left in the 1st half and the deadlock is broken. Histon have a free-kick wide on the right after Davies is fouled. Players come forwards as Gordon sets the ball on the ground. Sent in long to the far post a vicious delivery is attacked by Wright from 3 yards out a glancing header it runs on for Westrope beyond her she sends her header inside the post to give Histon the lead 0-1.

Histon Ladies, Charlotte Westrope

Newmarket go on the attack straight from the restart the ball into Wickens on the left her cross is fired in hard across the face of the Histon goal, Robinson going to ground far post does enough to put of Griffin arriving late out of play a goal kick given. Histon with Lanham onto Wright into Hopkin through the middle back to goal Hopkin a long way out rolls her marker and shoots the ball straight at Hope.

GOAL! Newmarket get themselves back on level terms right on the stroke of half-time breaking up a Histon attack at the back counter with purpose Torrance at left back forwards for Wickens she passes it inside for Bailey bombing forwards through the middle outside the D thinks about the shot hesitates a second by then she spots Griffin advancing into the box from the right her pass to her inch perfect Griffin shoots rifling the ball into the top corner 1-1. The final action of the 1st half.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 1-1 Histon Ladies

A really interesting 1st half of football a close contest with plenty of action, Newmarket if anything might have felt they should be leading 1st half only to go a goal down getting back into it with the last attack of the half. All level sets the game up perfectly for the 2nd half. Early on it looked to be shaping up for a close contest which way it will go 2nd half? Could go either way, was excited to find out as the two sides returned for the 2nd half.

No changes for either side at the break as Newmarket get things underway, Histon’s Wright looks to be playing further up the field in support of Hopkin up top. The visitors start brightly on the attack the ball won played up to Wright moving left sends a cross in cut out by Beth Woodfield. Histon regain possession a 2nd ball into the box is cleared for a corner kick on the left. Lanham puts the delivery long towards the top of the area Westrope has a free header sends the ball over the crossbar. Pressing the ball a high tempo Histon push on with Wright again on the left her cross driven in low is collected by Hope covering her near post.

Histon Ladies, Alison Wright

For several minutes Histon have Newmarket back on their heels at the start of the 2nd half the pressure is relieved with a throw won deep on the left the ball throw square squirms through for Griffin to steal into the box turns and unleashes a shot sending the ball up over the crossbar.

GOAL! Histon might have started the 2nd half the better however it is Newmarket who get themselves the goal to lead the game with 57 minutes played. A corner won on the right Linger coming to take it a good delivery sent high into the six yard box, is attacked a yellow shirt leaping high flies on over her and onto Beth Woodfield central who directs the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-1.

A blow for Histon after their good start is further struck after goalkeeper Robinson accidentally handles the ball out of her area as she goes to kick the ball up-field A free-kick awarded to Newmarket right on the edge of the box inside the D slightly to the left. Linger and Sillitoe over the ball, Linger defers to Sillitoe a direct free-kick goes for goal past the wall the ball hit hard runs wide of the far post. Sillitoe with another shot in the next attack Linger with a great ball for her into the area right of goal snatches at the ball pulls the ball wide across the face of goal.

Robinson makes a great save coming out to close down Bailey as she wriggles in behind as a ball played from halfway beats the Histon defence on the bounce the ball put behind for a corner on the left Newmarket load the box as the delivery comes in two players attack the ball for Newmarket close in Bailey connects her effort hitting the crossbar and bouncing down Histon scramble the ball clear play stopped as they have two players down in the box. Histon build Webb on for Davies her diagonal ball in towards the top of the area Beth Woodfield fails to clear Hopkin can’t dig the ball out of her feet for a shot before Yasmin Woodfield gets to her to make the challenge.

GOAL! Another free-kick awarded to Newmarket right on the edge of the area as Robinson in adjudged to have handled the ball out of her area going to take another goal kick. This time it is costly, Linger told to take this one taking instructions from the bench with her sets the ball down and puts her low driven shot into the bottom corner of the net to extend Newmarket’s lead 3-1.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Jess Linger

Goals bring confidence and Newmarket are energised after going 3-1 up can’t rest on their laurels however as Histon have a renewed resolve of their own Davies surging on down the right crosses Hopkin in the box sees the ball all the way onto her foot shaping to shoot only for Beth Woodfield to slide in to take the ball away from her for the throw in. Wright pushing forwards with the ball has a shot from 25 yards out puts the ball straight at the keeper. Newmarket make a 2nd change Slater coming off to be replaced by Antonia Smith. Histon make their 1st change of the game Julian replaced by Tessa Shaw at the back.

Wright is sent clear through the middle for Histon with the game stretched in a race for the ball with Yasmin Woodfield, Hope has already made the decision to come goes to clear the ball comes off Wright runs on behind into the box Wright after it but play is brought back by the referee a hand ball spotted. Westrope in a central position puts the ball on for Wright into the area hesitation from the Newmarket defence gives her a half yard running at the ball stabs a shot wide of Hope’s right post.

A few excitable challenges flying in players diving in the midfield hotly contested but both sides enjoying the scrap the referee has thing’s well under control a few words an play goes on. The final changes for both sides Newmarket making their 3rd change sending on Lauren Deller up front for Sillitoe. A double switch for Histon as they switch t a 3-4-3 formation Lanham and Westrope coming off for Georgina Westrope and Harriett Wilkerson coming on.

GOAL! Game on as Histon pull a goal back straight after play resumes the ball put out to Davies on the move on the right carries it on strikes the ball a cross/shot doesn’t matter as the ball flies over Hope coming towards her near post and finds the side netting inside the far post 3-2. 15 minutes plus stoppage time to play.

GOAL! Soon after conceding Newmarket get up the other end and regain their 2 goal cushion. Have a free-kick awarded on the left side outside the box 25 yards out Linger over the ball with another confident strike blasts the ball in striking the near post rebounds back into play coming straight for Deller 8 yards out reacts instinctively sending the ball back towards goal and scoring 4-2.

Histon keep going frustrated but determined the ball put up into the box Beth Woodfield conceding a corner on the left. The delivery goes long Wright far post gets up to attack the ball her header driven down back across goal Hopkin at the opposite post close in can’t get a clean connection on the ball as she turns. A few tempers frayed but again a few words by the referee and things are calmed down. Griffin and Wickens switch sides late on for Newmarket.

Deller thinks she has scored again and all the players from Newmarket rush to congratulate her thinking a 3 goal lead has won them the tie. The ball is played through the middle with Histon high up the pitch Deller is clear running for the ball Robinson is out of her area sliding in attempting to get there the ball is deflected past her Deller running on to score a wheel away in celebration however I’m standing behind the linesman this side and his flag was up before she and the keeper came together the goal disallowed the Newmarket bench desperately trying to get the team back into position with only stoppage time left. Newmarket keep Histon at bay until the final whistle blows and they can celebrate reaching the next round of the FA Women’s Cup.

Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 4-2 Histon Ladies

A great watch today very entertaining and might well have gone either way. Histon never getting on top of Newmarket who grew in confidence an intriguing contest some well taken goals. A good result for Newmarket to carry into the season. They will face King’s Lynn Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying after they beat Oadby & Wigston Dynamos Ladies 3-1. I like the sound of this tie too so I’ll be back at The Ridgeons Stadium for the game in 2 weeks time on Sun 17th September.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

This afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Newmarket Town Ladies Jess Linger confident and composed in midfield breaks up more opposition attacks than you realise. A good set-piece taker scoring a goal and another off the post.

Got to love a cup game, whatever competition it is. My thanks to both sides for their help today.

Match Report – Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

Wednesday 30th August

My 1st midweek game of the season a trip down into Essex to watch a game another game from the ERWFL this time in the new Division One South and the opening fixture for both sides as Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies host Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies.

With 5 new sides joining the ERWFL this season Division One once again is split into 2 leagues a North and a South. The South containing 7 sides has only seen the one game played to date with newcomers Bishops Stortford Ladies leading the way with a 3-0 win away to Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. The V Festival and player unavailability delaying the start of the season.

Two sides beginning their season tonight under the lights an 8pm kick-off. A new home for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this season playing at Bowers & Pitsea FC. Will be hoping for a better finish this time around having finished in 10th place in the single 11 strong Division One last season albeit on goal difference with 2 points separating the sides from 7th to 10th. Retain much of last seasons squad a young side. Charlotte Stephens joining after a spell studying abroad in America. Ebony Moore returning to the club after being with Hutton Ladies last season.

One of the few sides I haven’t seen play in the ERWFL to date, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies struggled last season finishing bottom of the table. Much change at the club then with their previous manager Reece Buck leaving to take on a coaching role at FAWPL side Stevenage Ladies taking a good number of experienced 1st team regulars with him. Meant new joint managers Matthew Norton and Fraser Wood fielding a lot of younger players a steep learning curve results didn’t come but by all accounts the side improved strongly as the season grew. Have new signings ahead of the season with both Kristina O’Connell and Leah Dunnage returning from Stevenage. Chloe Makepeace and Sian Owens making their debuts tonight.

Bowers & Pitsea FC, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies new home this season the non-league club investing in their pitch over the summer improving drainage and reseeding the grass it looks in great condition soft underfoot is a very large and wide pitch. A small covered seated stand on one side with covered standing behind one goal. Outside the pitch a large clubhouse and function room a wedding party in full swing. Car parking and plans in place to continue the improvements. A wet and miserable day the steady rain starting to die away remained dull and over cast however the pitch wasn’t affected at all.

Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Atlanta Fuwa, Courtney Fraser, Elysia King, Taylor Parrish, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds (C) Sydney Killick, Eloise Ives, Natalie Strange, Ebony Moore & Georgia Fraser. Subs – Danielle Styles, Kerri Thomas, Rhianne Holmes & Sophie Dowman.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies starting XI – Shannon Daly, Katie Kendle, Leah Dunnage, Charley Handley, Faye Holder, Chloe Makepeace, Robyn Jones, Kristina O’Connell, Charlotte Grogan, Sian Owens & Natasha Crick (C). Subs – Megan Davies, Stephanie Iaonnou, Summer Muir, Rachel Daltrey & Courtney Smart.

(Roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Hoddesdon to get the game underway kicking off 1st half are wearing their regular colours red and navy vertical striped shirts, with navy shorts and socks. Little Thurrock wearing orange shirts with black across the chest and sleeves, black shorts and socks. Hoddesdon attack straight from the off Kristina O’Connell in the centre passing to fellow midfielder Robyn Jones she sends the ball forwards for captain and striker Natasha Crick to go after, a touch but closed down by Little Thurrock’s Taylor Adcock the ball is won outside the box. A rapid counter attack the ball with right back Elle King taking it forwards has her captain Abbie Simmonds making a determined run forwards into the box King rolls the ball into her path taking it to the byline she cuts the cross back across the six yard box racing across the face of goal no one coming in far post to turn home.

GOAL! 3 minutes on the clock and Little Thurrock take an early lead the tempo high at the start the full width of the pitch being exploited by both sides Little Thurrock pressing the ball Hoddesdon can’t get it away won back inside their half the home side’s attackers look to turn in behind the through ball picks out Georgia Fraser left side in the box strikes the ball in low and hard towards the near post beats goalkeeper Shannon Daly over the line for 1-0.

End to end at the start both sides expanding alot of energy early on keen to get the competitve action started at last. Little Thurrock attacker Ebony Moore is presented with a shooting opportunity as Daly’s goalkick comes straight to her 30 yards out from goal pushing the ball forwards looks to open up her body curl her shot around the keeper from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of goal. Georgia Fraser getting possession of the ball 25 yards out left of goal carries it into the area in a similar position to where she scored has another go this time Daly going to ground is right behind the strike makes the save.

Hoddesdon get players forwards pressuring the Little Thurrock midfield inside their half Chloe Makepeace wins the ball knocking it inside for Charlotte Grogan in space centrally 35 yards out lines up a shot lacks the pace to trouble Fuwa in the Little Thurrock goal. Little Thurrock are prepared to push more players on when they have the ball their defence coming to the half way line they keep Hoddesdon penned back enjoying more of the ball doubling up on the right Georgia Fraser on the ball in the corner sends a cross back towards the top of the area, Moore’s there good control back to goal lays it off for the advancing Sydney Killick she takes on the shot puts the ball over the crossbar.

Charley Handley moves out of centre back to deal with the threat posed by Natalie Strange on the right for Little Thurrock the defender sliding in to tackle preventing the attacker getting a run into the box. Little Thurrock keep up the pressure in the final 3rd winning a corner kick on the right. King to take the set piece a good delivery long towards the far post Georgia Fraser up to head the ball knocking it down bounces wide.

Hoddesdon come forwards Jones knocking the ball on for Sian Owens attacking on the left wing making ground has support from Crick outside the box 25 yards out receives the pass plays in on for O’Connell who in turn plays it back to Grogan, twisting and turning the no 10 comes on before rolling the ball into Owens moving into position outside the D, she strikes the ball goalwards, Fuwa is behind it all the way claims comfortably.

Handley reacts quickly getting across to tackle Strange once again on the right as Georgia Fraser skillfully flicks on King’s 25 yard pass. Coming on again down the right a Little Thurrock win a free-kick outside the Hoddesdon box, players come forwards from the back as King sets the ball. The delivery towards the far post falls to the ground, Adcock is there for Little Thurrock 8 yards out latches onto the ball puts it wide across the goal. Up front on her own Crick is constantly looking to peel off the last defender get in behind whenever Hoddesdon mount an attack, does so as O’Connell threads the pass along the ground into her path moving right into the area pulls the trigger puts her shot straight into the keepers gloves.

A change for Little Thurrock with Danielle Styles entering the game midway through the 1st half. Little Thurrock are having more of the attack win a corner right another well delivered ball from King drops into the six yard box central Georgia Fraser lunges out to connect with the ball scoops it up over the crossbar. A change for Hoddesdon with Stephanie Iaonnou coming on for Jones. Iaonnou links up with Owens on the left side as Hoddesdon attack the pass inside for Makepeace she tries to feed Crick the ball as the striker enters the box from the right she is quickly closed down and crowded off the ball by 3 Little Thurrock defenders.

GOAL! Little Thurrock have had the better chances 1st half but with 40 minutes played Hoddesdon get themselves back on level terms. O’Connell with a great run on the ball driving through the centre plays it on for Crick making a run left to get into the box in behind, can she reach the ball before the keeper, Fuwa goes to ground, Crick gets a toe on the ball knocks it past her goes after it the angle going away from her gets the shot in with defenders rushing back the ball turned towards goal finds its way into the back of the net to make it 1-1.

The game restarts with Styles and Strange switching sides, Styles right now plays the ball on for Moore through the middle a race for the ball with Handley the central defender sticking out a leg to take the ball away from the Little Thurrock attacker. Daly with a good claim under pressure from Moore minutes later as Styles whips a high diagonal ball into the area.

GOAL! A goal out of nothing sees Little Thurrock restore their lead in the closing minute of the 1st half the ball is kicked out of the box by Daly into midfield won by Little Thurrock the pass picking out Styles on the right in space a long way out but aware the goalkeeper is out of position strikes the ball high towards goal on target backpedalling Daly can’t reach it as it flies over her and bounces into the goal 2-1.

Styles causing Hoddesdon a few problems since coming on. On the left side Strange puts the cross into the box Iaonnou inside the six yard box blocks a shot the ball rebounding out towards Abbie Simmonds 25 yards out central the Little Thurrock captain goes for goal the ball fired back in over the bar. Into stoppage time in the 1st half Little Thurrock are finishing strongly Simmonds bringing the ball on puts it into Styles ahead of her King seeing space to run into goes beyond her receiving the pass fires a cross into the area players from both sides attack the ball Handley winning it initially isn’t clear on the floor Little Thurrock’s Moore gets a shot away, Daly making the save at pointblank range the ball going away for a corner kick. Dealt with.

Half-time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 2-1 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

A narrow lead for Little Thurrock at the break taking an early lead and creating further chances to extend their lead Hoddesdon have defended stoutly their defence kept busy. Both sides enjoying the space the pitch offers have put alot into the 1st half may tell 2nd half as legs tire. Hoddesdon with fewer chances and these shots from outside the box. Crick offering a threat up top with O’Connell making some useful runs in the middle getting it back to 1-1 only to concede soon after.

With roll on roll off substitutes in play and the dugouts being on the opposite side of the pitch to where I’m watching a good distance hard to keep track of all the comings and goings. 2 changes for Little Thurrock as they kick-off the 2nd half Moore and Killick are off with Kerri Thomas and Sophie Dowman on. Hoddesdon win possession Grogan playing the ball long for Crick the ball bouncing over Parrish, Fuwa is quickly out to jump and claim the ball before the striker can capitalise. Both sides counter attack, Hoddesdon with Crick after the ball Parrish clears, then up the other end Handley dives in to make a challenge gets hurt and the trainer is immediately called for. A lengthy pause in play however Handley somewhat gingerly is back to her feet and going off the field is soon allowed back on.

Courtney Fraser is called into action at the back for Little Thurrock as Hoddesdon’s O’Connell makes a run with the ball centrally plays the pass on into the box with Grogan the furthest forwards the full back coming across on the cover to put the challenge in win the ball.

GOAL! Little Thurrock like they did in the 1st half score early to open up a 2 goal cushion. Georgia Fraser on the ball left side into the Hoddesdon half moves infield rolls it a across for Thomas, Styles is on the move right side looking for the ball to be passed into her run inside the area Thomas obliges Styles takes it on right of goal a tight angle drills a shot in near post Daly drops to make the save the ball squirms away from her and into the back of the net beyond 3-1.

Hoddesdon win their 1st corner of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd half the delivery inviting just over the head of Handley jumping in the centre of the six yard box. Simmonds heads the ball out towards the top of the area a shot is taken the ball sent wide of goal. Katie Kendle gets across to tackle Dowman as Georgia Fraser looks to send her clear on the left wing. Fraser comes off then with Eloise Ives rejoining the action. The energy levels remain high space is opening up here and their Hoddesdon break up a Little Thurrock attack Holder on for Kendle bringing it on right has Grogan ahead of her she turns with the ball and releases O’Connell grass in front of her tries an ambitious cross towards the far post with Crick trying to get on the end of it throws herself at the dropping ball but doesn’t connect.

Megan Davies is on for Hoddesdon in at left back Dunnage more central. Simmonds is off for Little Thurrock, Killick back on. The ball is moving up and down the pitch Adcock clears as Crick looks to chase a ball played through from Grogan. Dowman through the middle for Little Thurrock looks to attack the box looking to plough her way through Dunnage and Handley converge to close the door in front of her. Dowman isn’t put off though and with the ball at her feet again right of the D lets fly from 20 yards coming in fast and skipping off the surface Daly makes a great save knocking the ball up and over the ball as she falls forwards.

Handley clears the corner from the right at the near post. Summer Muir is sent into the game for Hoddesdon replacing Grogan moving into a central striking position Crick moving left. Kendle too is taken off with Rachel Daltrey taking up the right back position. Styles on the run with the ball for Little Thurrock right side sends the pass on for Dowman inside the box she turns and shoots Daly saving with the block a close range neither aware the offside flag was up against Dowman. Georgia Fraser comes back on for Little Thurrock.

Daltrey clears the ball off the goal line for Hoddesdon as a cross is whipped in from the right, Daly can only get her fingertips to the ball not enough to stop it flying goalwards the defender back on the cover. Play is stretched late on Jones returns to the field in place of Iaonnou for Hoddesdon.

GOAL! Little Thurrock strengthen their grip on their 1st 3 point haul of the season as they score a 4th goal. The build up right side a high ball in towards the near side of goal Daly parries the ball away the clearance played out falls straight to Georgia Fraser time to pick her spot takes on the shot sending the ball high into the far top corner of the net Daly unable to get back across her goal in time 4-1.

Changes thick and fast now for Little Thurrock Rhianne Holmes introduced with Moore also back on. Holmes at right back for Little Thurrock clearing an O’Connell cross flashed across the face of goal as Muir rolls her in inside the box. Not long left now Muir has given Hoddesdon’s attack a little more impetus late on Crick and O’Connell pushed on Little Thurrock with a 3 goal cushion dropping off a little.

GOAL! Possession with Hoddesdon outside the Little Thurrock area on the left side Muir linking up with Crick 30 yards out takes on the shot is a great strike flying across Fuwa’s six yard box the keeper turning to see the ball land in the back of the net as Crick becomes the 3rd player of the night to complete a brace 4-2.

One final attack with Little Thurrock and they almost steal in to score a 5th goal the ball sent long up into the area the bounce deceiving the keeper skipping up over her looks to be going on to creep inside the far post Dowman after it, so too is the Hoddesdon defence the ball hooked off the goal line once again.

Full time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 4-2 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

Little Thurrock win the game 4-2 to begin their season with a win the 3 points putting them straight into 2nd behind Bishops Stortford on goal difference. A winning start at their new home played well for the win an early goal setting them on their way. Creating chances have plenty of attack minded players. Hoddesdon getting back into the game only to concede again. The visitors with fewer chances did well but were always on the back foot after conceding early goals in both halves 4-2 a fair reflection of the game and despite the the loss Hoddesdon should be encouraged by the performance, both the North & South Division One’s in the ERWFL will be competitve this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Little Thurrock Dynamos, Georgia Fraser. Good movement on and off the ball, timing her runs into the box and always available for the ball with two well taken goals.

A two hour trip home hence a later than normal match report but good to be on the road again. An enjoyable game under the floodlights tonight. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 27/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 27th August

Into the 2nd weekend of the ERWFL season, August Bank Holiday weekend too. Hot and sunny for a change. All the sides in the Premier Division and Division One North are finally up and running whilst in Division One South 2 sides finally play.

ERWFL Premier Division

Billericay Town Ladies continue to lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division making it 2 wins from 2 with another big win away from home this weekend taking on Lowestoft Town Ladies at Crown Meadow. Billericay more often than not up at the top of the Premier Division table with the title contenders building on their impressive 12-1 win over newly promoted Colney Heath Ladies last Sunday were too strong for a Lowestoft Town side in a rebuilding process after suffering relegation from the FAWPL last season. 2 goals for Lauren Knight, along with a goal each for Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Hope Strauss and captain Lindsey Morgan seeing the Essex side win 6-1. Hannah Waters, captain of Lowestoft Town Ladies getting their goal.

Bedford Ladies maintain their 100% winning start to the season as they edged the win away from home against Royston Town Ladies on Sunday to keep them 2nd in the Premier Division table after their opening day win at home to Lowestoft Town Ladies. A brace from Natasha Fensome along with a goal for Maya Sidhu seeing Bedford claim all 3 points winning 3-2. A 2nd straight defeat for Royston Town Ladies who have made some interesting signings over the close season amongst them Becky Shephard from Hertford Town Ladies who scored both the goals for Royston on her debut this Sunday.

Acle United Ladies are 3rd also with 2 wins from 2 to start the season began with a 5-1 win away to AFC Dunstable Ladies last Sunday. Were at home this Sunday taking on another side that had scored 5 goals in their opening game of the season Suffolk’s AFC Sudbury Ladies. Is this weekends featured game on the website and the match report can be found a couple of posts down. Playing at the FDC Flegg and all weather 3G pitch home to their training ground too Acle United started the match strongly creating chances before taking the lead just before the quarter hour marking Lauren Bullard on hand to turn Megan Todd’s cross in at the far post. Sudbury responded quickly Sophie Jeffery causing havoc up the left wing sending a cross in for Stacey Teager to send into the back of the opposition goal. Acle United were finding room in behind the Sudbury defence and pressing the ball in midfield defender Anna Larkins broke clear down the right sending in towards goal a great ball dipping over the goalkeeper into the far top corner to make it 2-1. Acle United captain Rebecca Burton sending Todd through clear on goal getting the rebound of the goalkeeper favourably to take the ball past her and put into the empty net to make it 3-1 the lead at half-time.

New signing Ciera Flatt with the ball for Acle United Ladies

Sudbury regrouped after the break started the 2nd half well however it was Acle United who would further extend their lead breaking and this time Burton was on hand to turn the ball home inside the box a defensive clearance going straight to her. Sudbury responded quickly again to pull it back to 4-2, Mia Etheridge putting the ball into the back of the net from a corner kick. An extended 2nd half period due to injury midfielder Broghan Scully played in by Todd scored to seal a 5-2 win for Acle United.

Cambridge City Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division as Division One Champions, in their 1st season playing at regional level had to wait a weekend before getting their campaign underway and got it off to a winning start taking them straight up into 4th position. Giving debuts to 4 players from their U16s last season, Cambridge City were on the road in Essex taking on Colchester Town Ladies. Bella Simmons was Cambridge City’s top scorer last season with 25 goals. Started her Premier Division season by scoring 4 goals helping Cambridge City to a 7-0 away win. Stacey Fullicks, Sarah Mosley and Megan Tonks also opening their goal accounts on the way to the 3 points.

The match between AFC Dunstable Ladies who had lost their opening game and Writtle Ladies who were starting their season featured 10 goals! The points however were shared as they both rattled in 5 goals a piece! Danielle Carty, Rianne Townsend-Brown and Beth Stanton all getting a goal each along with a brace for Charlotte Smith for the Bedfordshire side. There was a brace too for Essex’s Writtle with Sophie Vale grabbing two goals. Abigail Fry, Ellie Bowbidge and Lynsey Bowman signing from Silver End United Ladies all getting a goal in their opening match.

The points were shared too between Colney Heath Ladies and Brentwood Town Ladies. The newly promoted Hertfordshire side, Colney Heath still down to the bare bones with just the 11 available. Brentwood Town Ladies building with a new Reserve side this season were starting their season and held the advantage at half time away from home leading 1-0 doubled the lead in the 2nd half but frustratingly left with only a point. Leading 2-0 with 85 minutes played through goals for Drew Allen and Holly Griffin. Colney Heath battled back to win their 1st point of the season Nicola Hollick scoring both their goals. A needed boost after their heavy opening game defeat.