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The Round-Up – FAWPL 20/08/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th August

The new season is finally here and with it The Round-Up is back too. All the action from the FAWPL Southern Division right down to the county leagues across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire covered. The county leagues don’t get underway until next month but this weekend saw the return of both the FAWPL and the ERWFL. First up the FAWPL Round-Up covering both the Southern and South East Division One. 

FAWPL Southern Division

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies won the FAWPL Southern Division title last season going on to win the FAWPL Playoff game to win a place in FAWSL 2. With Tottenham going up and only 11 sides in the Division bottom side QPR Ladies were spared relegation. 12 sides contesting the league this season with Division One South East and South West champions, Gillingham FC Ladies and Chichester City Ladies both promoted. Looking at thing’s in pre-season would have to say Coventry United Ladies or Charlton Athletic Women are favourites to win the title, Crystal Palace have recruited well too could be another contender.

Onto the action and of the two favourites I mentioned above they couldn’t have gotten off to a better start. Goals a plenty in the league on the opening weekend 32 in all across the six games. It’s Crystal Palace Ladies holding top spot in the Southern Division as they won big on the opening day. At home played QPR Ladies, Crystal Palace have bolstered their squad over the close season bringing in Striker Nikita Whinnett from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies along with Megan Lynch. Stefanie Simmons joins from Charlton. Megan Chandler and Ria Collins also new additions. It didn’t take Whinnett long to open her account for Crystal Palace scoring in the 8th minute.

   An equally important signing was retaining the services of striker Gemma Bryan scored plenty last season and on the half hour mark opened her account for this season. Crystal Palace had more chances in the 1st half but at the break the lead was 2-0. It rained goals in the 2nd half and both Bryan and Whinnett had another goal each inside the 1st 10 minutes of the restart on 57 minute Bryan completed her hat-trick. Stefanie Simmons got in on the scoring act netting on her debut. Whinnett not to be out done made it a hat-trick too in the 75th minute. Bryan going on to claim 5 goals on the day netting 2 more in the final 5 minutes as Crystal Palace ran out 9-0 winners inflicting a heavy defeat on QPR.

   Coventry United Ladies weren’t far behind Crystal Palace just a goal in it in 2nd spot as they racked up a high score away to Swindon Town Ladies winning 8-0. Have another player in hot scoring form early in the season as Alison Hall scored a 1st half hat-trick with goals in the 3rd, 30th and 34th minute, the lead 4-0 at the break with Keeley Davies opening her account volleying home a minute after Hall had scored her 1st. Hall went on to add a 4th goal to her tally early in the 2nd half with substitute Nikki Miles making it 6-0 just past the hour mark. Jade Brook went on to score a double to round off the score. A tough home start for Swindon Town Ladies. 

Charlton Athletic Women were also amongst the goals as they began their season at home to Lewes Ladies at Thamesmead. Have like Crystal Place added several new players to their squad with James Marrs coming in to join the coaching staff. Charlotte Gurr joins having been at Gillingham FC Ladies along with goalkeeper Katie Startup. Kat Nutman is a good addition with plenty of FAWSL 2 experience with Oxford United Women. Ellie Dorey comes in from Brighton, Liz O’Callaghan another new addition. Chloe Brunton Wilde coming in too plenty of new faces. It was the visitors who themselves have made some useful signings strikers Amy Taylor and Lisa Fulgence who were to take the early lead Lewes ahead in the 7th minute Kate McIntyre scoring. Charlotte Lee got Charlton back on level terms netting on 20 minutes with 2 late goals putting the home side ahead in the 1st half an own goal on 38 minutes, Ellie Dorey scored on her competitive debut to see Charlton lead 3-1 in the 42nd minute.

Last season’s top scorer for Charlton, Kit Graham was introduced from the bench in the 61st minute went on to score twice on the opening day to make it 5-1 to Charlton with Gurr scoring her 1st Charlton goal in the final minute of the game.

Portsmouth FC Ladies are 4th after the opening day fixtures as they picked up a great result at home playing one of last season’s title contenders Cardiff City Ladies. Molly Clark, Jade Widdowson and Rachel Panting amongst Portsmouth’s new signings it was Shannon Albuery who gave Portsmouth the early advantage scoring a goal in the 3rd minute. Natasha Stephens doubled the lead just past the quarter hour mark and own goal soon after pulling it back to 2-1. Samantha Quayle netting with a couple of minutes remaining in the 1st half to see Portsmouth lead 3-1 at half time. Cardiff were reduced to 10 early on in the 2nd half Laura Williams red carded. But so too were Portsmouth goalkeeper Michelle Beasley sent to the dressing room too. It was Molly Clark on her debut to make the 3 points beyond doubt for Portsmouth scoring in the 88th minute to seal a 4-1 victory.

 Another side recruiting well before the season are Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies. Have brought in April Bowers and Ellie Manning from Gillingham FC Ladies aswell as Katie Whitehead from Billericay Town Ladies. Were at home on the opening day at Canvey Island FC hosting newly promoted Chichester City Ladies. Goals for Danica Revell and April Bowers on her debut saw the home side start with a win taking all 3 points with a 2-0 win that puts them into 5th early on.

 After a 2 season absence Gillingham FC Ladies were back in the FAWPL Southern Division making their bow at home on the opening day and doing so at Gillingham FC’s Priestfield stadium to hosting West Ham United Ladies now fully under the umbrella of West Ham United. Gillingham despite promotion have seen several players depart the squad over the summer had a large squad with plenty of young players ready to step up. West Ham United have several new signings, Mollie Kmita was with Gillingham for a spell herself last season, Abi Igbavboa formerly with Crystal Palace have also added Amber Stobbs who had spells with FAWSL sides Reading FC Women and Everton Ladies, now named as captain at the club. The game itself looked to be heading for a draw neither side able to break the dead lock right up until the final minute when Kallie Balfour found the back of the net to score and seal an opening day 3 points for Gillingham FC Ladies.

FAWPL South East Division One

Onto the FAWPL South East Division One, again the opening day saw all 12 sides in action with contrasting results for the two newly promoted sides Leyton Orient WFC and Haringey Borough Women. For the past two seasons the league has been won by a runaway side Gillingham FC Ladies and Crystal Palace Ladies respectfully. This time round I think it will be much closer at the top Milton Keynes Dons Ladies finishing runners up last season may be slight favourites but the likes of AFC Wimbledon, Actonians Ladies, Luton and Cambridge may well be there or there about. Is a league where anyone on their day can beat anyone else.

Actonians Ladies surged to the top of the pile as they gave new promoted Haringey Borough Women a debut day defeat they aren’t likely to forget in a hurry. Were a surprise package last season their 2nd in the league started strongly and stayed competitve all season in the top 5 eventually clinching a top half finish. Alessandra Barreca was their top scorer then and hit the new season running smashing 5 past Haringey Borough. Katrina Duncan and Sinthujah Sooriyakumar both netting a brace there were goals to for Lafa Uche, Catherine Murphy, Caterina Kensbock and Mariko Engels in a resounding 13-0 win. A tough loss to start the season for Haringey Borough who also had Stephanie Cooper sent off for 2 bookable offences

The other side newly promoted to the side from the regional leagues are Leyton Orient WFC they made their debut in the FAWPL away to Cambridge United WFC at Mildenhall Town FC. That match was the featured game of the weekend on Women’s Football East and the match report can be found just below this post. Plenty of changes for Cambridge United WFC who looked in contention for the league title for a good portion of last season before eventually finishing 4th. Lots of new faces and a few absences and injuries early on seeing a new look side take to the pitch against a Leyton Orient WFC side that had retained almost all of last season’s promotion winning squad excited to get going to. Chances early on for Cambridge, Leyton Orient grew into the game. A competitive and physical game the visitors held Cambridge to 0-0 at the break came out strongly 2nd half both sides may well feel they could have got the winning goal but in the end the points were shared overall the result a good platform for both to build on.

New signing Amber Cantwell attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Luton Town Ladies are 2nd in the table after the opening round of fixtures as they hosted Stevenage Ladies starting their 2nd season in the league. New signings for both sides, Luton bringing in goalkeeper Grace Brooks from London Bees, Steph Gale from Leicester City and Lisa Nixon from Watford along with adding development players to their 1st team squad. Stevenage have resigned striker Nicole Perschky (now Emmings) aswell as Paige Logie from Cambridge United WFC, along with Amy Makewell, Emma Marshall and Chloe Gunn.  

Luton opened the scoring on 11 minutes with Zara Carroll rifling home from 35 yards, it was Carroll again on target 10 minutes later to make it 2-0. Jess McKay put Luton into a 3-0 1st half lead but the score was 3-2 at the break as Stevenage fought back with two quick goals from captain Donna McGuigan and Amy Josland. Luton going on to secure the 3 points in the 2nd half with Nicola Henman scoring twice to seal a 5-2 win.

Norwich City Ladies were in a relegation battle at the bottom of the South East Division One table last season saving themselves with a magnificent performance in their final games. Have added to their squad for the new campaign bringing in striker Vivian Moyo from Thorpe United Ladies. Goalkeeper Eilish Brogan from Lowestoft and Luka Goodfield from Acle United Ladies along with Sasha Diston returning after being with AFC Sudbury Ladies. Also welcome back midfielder Jordan Arnoup who has been out of the game for the game for 2 seasons battling injury. Hosting Enfield Town Ladies, Norwich got off great start Aimee Durrant putting them into the lead inside 15 minutes, Chelsea Garrett doubled the advantage early in the 2nd half before Enfield fought back Lisa Kline making it 2-1 on the 67th minute had them level just 3 minutes later. 2 quickfire goals turned the game around in Enfield’s favour with 15 minutes left, Robyn Ami Brown a 2nd half substitute scoring to make it 3-2 Amira Martin made it 4-2 to the visitors 2 minutes later to see Enfield leave Norfolk with all 3 points.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies hit the ground running as they netted the fastest goal of the day at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Kerry Newman scoring inside the opening 2 minutes chances to extend the lead it was 1-0 at the break. Denham got themselves back on level terms with 58 minutes on the clock awarded a set piece up stepped Alissa Down to send the dead ball over the keeper into the back of the net the final score both sides taking a point from the game.

   A repeat of last season’s opening day fixture AFC Wimbledon Ladies were hosting Ipswich Town Ladies at Sutton United. Ipswich Town scored 3 goals in the match but left empty handed suffering a 4-3 defeat. 3 goals this time however were enough to secure the 3 points as they came back back from a goal down after Kelly-Jade Whelan had put Wimbledon into the lead. Natasha Thomas scoring a brace on the opening day along with a goal for Lindsey Smith seeing the visitors win 3-1. 

An eventful 1st weekend in the FAWPL best get used to it because I can’t see it being any different a busy season ahead.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Leyton Orient WFC

Sunday 20th August

 The new season is here! The 2017/18 season gets underway in the FAWPL and looks like it is going to be as competitve as ever. Starting the season with a game from FAWPL South East Division One at Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC who finished 4th in the league last season host newly promoted Leyton Orient WFC.

The past two seasons the league has been won by a runaway leaders Gillingham FC Ladies last season and Crystal Palace Ladies going unbeaten the season before. With no side coming down from the FAWPL Southern Division, South East Division One looks tighter this year. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies slight favourites to finish top there are a host of sides below them who could mount a strong challenge and most sides on their day are capable of beating anyone else. It’s what makes the league so exciting.

  Is a much changed Cambridge United WFC side going into the start of the 2017/18 campaign a few players moving to rivals in the league or taking a break from the game. Goalkeeper Verity Crook hanging up her boots. Are without defender Chloe Bennett for the start of the season as she is still recovering from the dislocated elbow she suffered at the end of last season as well as attacker Becky Taylor who was impressive for the club last season scooping most of the end of year awards out long term with an ACL injury.

  Have brought in goalkeeper Chloe Crook on loan from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies however injury sees her out of today’s league opener. Striker Nuala Wayne returns to the club as does Nettie Stillinger after a spell with Lowestoft Town Ladies. Charlotte Crisp also returns after university having been briefly with the club before. Creative midfielder Amber Cantwell steps up to the FAWPL after constantly impressing for Wymondham Town Ladies. Emma Whitter also joins the striker bringing a wealth of experience with her after spells with FAWSL 2 sides London Bees and Millwall Lionesses. Another new addition with plenty of FAWPL experience is Amy Howlett having played for Charlton Athletic Women aswell as two spells with Ipswich Town Ladies. Lastly joining the club after impressing on trial is Ruth Fox who was with Hitchin Belles last season. A new look side manager Steve Edwards hasn’t set any targets for this season a squad with plenty of potential to develop.

Leyton Orient WFC step up the the FAWPL after winning the London & South East Regional Premier Division title last season finishing 8 points clear at the top winning 16 of their 18 league games with only the one defeat. Have retained pretty much all of the squad that won promotion last season including top scorer Sophie Le Marchand who scored 39 goals during the 2016/17 season. One new addition with Hannah Porter joining from FAWPL Southern Division side C&K Basildon Ladies. Face a stern test as they play their football at a higher level with 3 successive away games against the sides that finished 4th, 5th and 6th.

Cambridge United WFC return to Mildenhall Town FC after playing their home matches their last season taking advantage of an excellent playing surface, the pitch looks as good as ever, Mildenhall Town FC winning promotion to the Bostik North Division. A sloping pitch from one goal mouth to the other some ground improvements made following promotion addition toilet facilities and turnstiles. A good sized clubhouse and hot drinks and refreshments available. A warm August afternoon to start the season a few dark clouds above but no rain forecast.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – MacKenzie McGranor, Emma Jenkins, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Nettie Stillinger, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Laura Mills, Amy Howlett, Emma Whitter & Lauren Gibson. Subs – Nuala Wayne & Ruth Fox.

Leyton Orient WFC starting XI – Naomi Ogunde, Francesca Cagetti, Hannah Porter, Danielle Griffiths (C), Connie Montiel-McCann, Egle Trezzi, Vanessa Wilson, Hayley Barton, Leyre Bastyr, Ella Meadowcroft & Jasmine Campbell. Subs – Olympia Diamond, Belen Ripoll-Douton, Natalie Colangelo & Chanel Richards.

 Both sides are have players unavailable at the start of the season Leyton Orient are with striker Le Marchand away on her honeymoon aswell as last seasons player of the year Ellie Davies. Cambridge have MacKenzie McGranor keeping goal in the absence of Crook and with their Reserves side making their bow in the ERWFL Division One North today can only pull a limited number from that squad with just the two subs on the bench. 

It’s Leyton Orient to get the 1st half underway wearing an all blue kit with Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical stripped shirts, black shorts and socks. Leyton Orient attacking down the slope look to thread a ball through the middle of the Cambridge defence who are playing 3 at the back the ball is won by Nettie Stillinger for Cambridge plays a good ball out to Laura Mills operating on the  left over half way carries the ball in field towards the area before dinking it up over the Leyton Orient defence with Amber Cantwell breaking forwards from midfield getting onto the end of it shoots early firing the ball back across the keeper runs wide of the far post.

Amber Cantwell attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Leyton Orient are awarded a free kick wide on the right around half way the ball played up towards striker Jasmine Campbell 30 yards from goal looks to turn and hit a shot, Stillinger closes her down putting in the blocking tackle to deny the strike. A good temp at the start Leyton Orient pressing Cambridge on the ball win a series of throws in their opponents half without finding a telling ball into the area.

Cambridge captain Laura Bright playing in front of her defence plays a great ball forwards for the strikers to chase, Lauren Gibson who had a great season with the Reserves last season stepping up to the 1st team gives chase left of goal into the area, Connie Montiel-McCann lunges into the challenge to win the ball take it away from the attacker before she can latch onto it. Off the resulting throw in on the left the ball is back with Gibson tries her luck from distance a dipping ball on target goalkeeper Naomi Ogunde parries it behind for a corner kick at her near post.

  The corner taken from the left comes in high far post area Gibson jumps up to try and win the header, Hannah Porter up with her the ball goes behind the final touch off the defender a corner awarded this time from the right, Laura Mills across to take it the ball comes into the area half cleared Kayleigh-Anne Burt up from the back for Cambridge retrieves and gets it back to Mills who drives on towards the by line cutting the cross square in towards the near post Bright closest goes to attack it a Leyton Orient defender slides in to make the challenge Bright goes down another corner is signalled this one cleared by Leyton Orient.

Good build up play from Cambridge on the right the ball played into Emma Whitter holds it up as Cantwell gets forwards centrally the pass played into her crosses it out to the left with Amy Howlett available inside the box gets her head to the ball but can only place the ball straight into Ogunde’s gloves. Hayley Barton takes the ball on down the right wing into the corner crosses it in towards the near post Burt defending wins it for Cambridge. Vanessa Wilson out to Leyre Bastyr finding a little space on the left for Leyton Orient fires the pass into the feet of Campbell outside the box tries to turn but is closely marked by Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins who wins the ball back. 

  Cambridge a temporarily down to 10 with Mills off receiving treatment. Leyton Orient press the advantage Bastyr onto the ball left looks to play Campbell in behind the ball is won back but Leyton Orient don’t left Cambridge get far closing down win a free kick outside the box right of goal 25 yards out Barton to take gets the ball around the wall on target but lacking enough pace as McGranor moves across to safely collect. 

Leyton Orient’s, Jasmine Campbell

  Building some momentum Leyton Orient regain possession in the middle the ball is played in behind into the area seeing Ella Meadowcroft one on one with the keeper right of goal McGranor comes out sliding in to block does enough to put the striker off the ball isn’t clear however Meadowcroft goes after it, Stillinger getting back to win and clear for Cambridge. The action is from one end to the other Leyton Orient attacking right Barton crossing into the box, Cambridge launch clear turns into an excellent ball for Mills giving chase into space on the right looks to curl a cross into the area sees the ball come back into play off as it strikes the near post. Leyton Orient get it up field as Mills stays down after the attack needing further treatment is able to continue.

Egle Trezzi finds the pitch open up in front of her as she brings the ball on time to play the ball she puts in in over the top of the Cambridge defence for Barton moving inside from the right into the area she hits it across the box for Bastyr coming in from the left connects with the header, McGranor scrambles across her goal but can see the ball drop safely a foot wide of the post. Cantwell brings the ball forwards for Cambridge before checking her run and playing the pass to Howlett on the left puts the ball into the area from a deep position, Ogunde claims the ball well as Gibson comes leaping in looking to get onto the end of it. Leyton Orient launch a rapid counter attack Porter on for Bastyr her ball played across the top of the area Barton right of the D launches onto it sends her shot high over the bar.

Cambridge’s Amy Howlett

Cambridge are awarded a free kick on half way right side the ball fired up towards the top of the box, Leyton Orient captain Danielle Griffiths gets a foot on the ball but can only push it out of the area Cantwell is onto it under challenge shifts the ball to her right gets a shot away the ball racing wide of the post from 22 yards. Is shaping up to be a physical encounter both sides prepared to stand their ground Gibson turns and plays the ball out wide right Mills gives chase getting it crosses early low comes in central Howlett tries to get onto it, Griffiths is their 1st to win the tackle and cancel the threat. 

Leyton Orient WFC captain, Danielle Griffiths

A corner on the right for Leyton Orient as the 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes comes in near post put behind looks a goal-kick however another corner is awarded this one comes in deeper is cleared out of the area falls to Porter 30 yards out central looks to strike the ball in towards goal a Leyton Orient attacker is offside as the ball bounces through obscures McGranor’s view for a moment but seeing it late gets across to make the save palming the ball initially before gathering.

Meadowcroft brings down Burt as the defender looks to carry the ball out from the back from the resulting free kick the ball is played long up to Gibson back to goal who helps it on with her head for Whitter to her right the striker peeling away finds some space driving into the area shapes to shoot back across the keeper gets it to close to Ogunde who drops low to make the save.

Cambridge’s, Emma Whitter with Leyton Orient’s, Francesca Cagetti

Into 1st half stoppage time a corner for Leyton Orient on the left played in long is attacked far post Campbell up gets hurt as she knocks the ball down into the six yard box, for a second it looks like Bastyr can latch onto it before Mills stabs the ball away to safety. A break as Campbell receives treatment is okay however and shows it as the game resumes retrieving the ball from the top of the Cambridge area bringing it under control and hitting a shot straight into McGranor.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Leyton Orient WFC

 A competitive 1st half to start the season defences have been busy on both sides and for most of the 45 minutes doing well chances limited both defending deep chances to run in behind few. Mills getting some joy from Cambridge on the right. Competitive and physical newly promoted to the higher level Leyton Orient will have gained alot of confidence as both sides head into the dressing rooms.

Cambridge attacking down the slope get the 2nd half underway. The sun blazing high in the sky. Leyton Orient press right from the start preventing Cambridge getting the ball out of their half. Play broken up little attacking in the opening exchanges. The visitors are given a free kick wide left is a great delivery into the area McGranor comes leaping into the crowd in front of her looking to punch the ball away misses it as it flies over everyone and bounces wide at the far post. 

Leyton Orient’s high tempo and pressing taking advantage of a sluggish start to the 2nd half from Cambridge. Barton playing the ball into the box from the right Stillinger in to win it from Meadowcroft. Winning a corner on the left Griffiths to take for Leyton Orient plays it down the line for Porter to cross in, Bright winning the ball launches it clear turns into a good ball as the counter attack is on Mills furthest forwards picks it up goes on a dribbling run pulling the trigger from outside the box her shot held well by Ogunde. 

Leyton Orient’s Hayley Barton

The Leyton Orient defence are keeping a good shape Whitter is closely marked by Cagetti not giving her room to turn in behind when the ball is played into her feet. Campbell heads the ball on for Barton who in turn puts it into the box for Meadowcroft can’t get her shot away, Stillinger regain possession but fails to get rid of it as Leyton Orient continue to press. Crisp is forwards for Cambridge in position central outside the D as the ball is rolled into her from the right, Wilson goes to ground tackling to win the ball before a shot can be lined up.

  Whitter comes deeper to win the ball strong on the ball slides it into Cantwell going forwards looks to pick out Gibson ahead of her, Cagetti is quick to close her down win the ball. The ball played forwards both Cambridge strikers get their heads to the ball a one two with the ball in the air moving towards the box before Gibson takes on the shot top of the box in low but without pace gathered by Ogunde. Cantwell surges forwards into space with the ball through the middle plays it forwards for Whitter to chase ahead of her has half a yard on Cagetti into the box left of goal looks to poke it across the keeper towards the far post succeeds but sees her effort run narrowly wide.

Whitter is getting frustrated she and Cagetti are talked to by the referee. Burt bringing the ball out from the back wide left sends t on for Howlett her diagonal ball into the D needs to be kicked clear by the onrushing keeper as Whitter threatens to get onto the end of it. Leyton Orient make the first substitution of the match Meadowcroft coming off up top to be replaced by Belen Ripoll-Douton. 

Cambridge’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Crisp wins the ball on for Cantwell who drives forwards plays the pass up to Whitter has Gibson to her right headers the ball down into her taking it on Gibson crosses into the box far side Cagetti wins the header before Howlett. Leyton Orient don’t get the ball away however Cantwell gets it back and shoots from 25 yards her low shot put straight at the keeper. Another change for Leyton Orient, Olympia Diamond coming on for Wilson. Cambridge make a change too Nuala Wayne coming on for Gibson in attack. 

Cambridge’s Nuala Wayne with Leyton Orient’s Egle Trezzi

A few tired legs out there and a few tired challenges remains a physical contest the referee having a word with a few players without yet brandishing a yellow card. That changes when Diamond new to the action dives in somewhat rashly on Howlett in the middle of the park over competitive it didn’t look pretty but Howlett just dusted herself down and it’s a yellow card for Diamond. Bastyr drives towards the box with the ball left side is marshalled wide by Jenkins, wriggles free and fires a cross in no one attacking far post as the ball runs wide.

Bright with a good pass picks out Howlett free on the left gets forwards rolls the ball into Whitter top of the area left side the striker turns intending to push through the Leyton Orient defence towards goal is closed down by 3 defenders no way through the ball deflected clear of the area drops to Crisp bursting forwards she shots wide from 25 yards. The midfielders last act of the game as Cambridge bring her off and send Ruth Fox on. 

Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright

Late into the game Leyton Orient with a free kick inside the Cambridge half on the right as Whitter tangles with Barton. Griffiths on the ball plays it up towards the far post misses by McGranor falls to Campbell closed down quickly inside the six yard box Burt is clattered goes down play stopped so she can receive treatment is okay. McGranor is floored as she and Campbell come together in the box following a late corner for Leyton Orient the foul given the goalkeeper is okay to continue. 

  Leyton Orient make their final change as the game moves into the closing minutes bringing Trezzi off in midfield send on Natalie Colangelo. Cambridge switch to a back four in an attempt to find a late winner push forwards without getting in behind the visitors defence the final whistle blows and both sides share the points in their opening game.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Leyton Orient WFC

  Overall probably a fair result a good start to the game from Cambridge creating openings, Leyton Orient were solid and grew into the game started the 2nd half the better pressed hard and both sides might well have claimed the win but the longer it remained 0-0 it looked the most likely result. A point on the board for both sides. Cambridge with alot of new faces in their side looked comfortable enough a few thing’s to work on but a solid defensive performance overall. Leyton Orient will be happy with the point always important for any newly promoted side to put in a competitive performance early on to settle them down build confidence were like Cambridge solid defensively giving little away and their pressing game brought opportunities up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A tough one today for Women’s Football East, Player of the Match defensive on top so it has to be a defender Stillinger made some good tackles for Cambridge, Bright ahead of the back three was influential on the ball too. For Leyton Orient, their captain Griffiths put in a good performance but I have to pick one so today’s Player of the Match goes to Francesca Cagetti good positioning and some clever defending on show too.

Good to get back in the groove feels odd writing the match reports here instead of on the SWF Blog but I’ll get used to it the season has started a competitive game if no goals I’ve missed it.

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Sunday 6th August

A new beginning on Women’s Football East the first match report published straight to the website as it becomes the new home for the SWF Blog my other women’s football adventure moving here after 3 and a half season’s to better streamline my coverage of the game. Still as it is a continuation of the SWF Blog, (same writer) just a different platform this is match report 291.

  A new season will soon be upon us pre season well under way for some clubs the FAWPL season beginning in less than 2 weeks. Still plenty to do on the website. Have had a good break over the summer after completing 102 matches in 2016 then pushing straight on into 2017. Needed the rest did me the power of good. Would have been back sooner covering a few more friendlies only family matters took a turn for the worse and needed my whole attention. Settled down now and time to get back into it.

  Enough about me however onto the football. Began my season with a trip up the A47 to King’s Lynn the venue The Walks stadium to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies beginning their 2nd season under the King’s Lynn Town FC banner hosting Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who ply their trade 2 leagues higher in FAWPL South East Division One. 

 A good test for King’s Lynn Town Ladies as they get to host another showpiece game at The Walks following on from taking on a West Ham United Ladies XI last season. A club on the move beginning 3 seasons ago as Lynn Ladies winning promotion from Norfolk Women’s Division Two in their 1st season establishing themselves in Division One the following season. Merged with King’s Lynn Town FC last season as the club sort to build better community spirit and relations. The move bringing about more progress as the ladies side challenged for the Division One title and won their 1st ever piece of silverware the Ladies League Plate. Finishing 3rd in the end applied for promotion to the regional league and accepted won a place in ERWFL Division One North. The squad preparing for their 4th season playing at a higher level.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies will be amongst the favourites for the FAWPL South East Division One title this coming season having clinched runners up spot last time around. Bring a squad of both 1st team and development squad players up to Norfolk for today’s pre season friendly including new recruits Alice Hughes a recent signing from Nottingham Forest Ladies and striker Sarah Payne back to full fitness after recovering from a long injury lay off making the move from Stevenage Ladies.

The playing surface at The Walks looked immaculate a great pitch to play on will see alot of action over the coming season with King’s Lynn Town FC having 6 teams, 1st’s, Reserves and U18s using it on a regular basis. King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing any home ties they receive in this season’s County and FA Women’s Cup here. A good sized stadium a large seated main stand, bar and refreshments. The weather was perfect bright and sunny another great opportunity to showcase women’s football at the ground. 

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies squad – Bryony Russell-Smith, Millie Wilson, Winnie Lee, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Bethan Jones, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C), Josie Turner & Elle Bocking, Vikki Burkauskaite, Tegan Wheeler, Lisa Wilson & Louise Coggles.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies squad – Sophie Shults, Khakr, Taylor Shields, Zoe Lander, Abbey Roberts (C), Sarah Harrison, Charley Aldridge, Molly Corbett, Taylor Duffy, Charlotte Murphy, Sarah Payne. Jemma Brittain & Alice Hughes.

Kick-off

   It’s the visitors to get the game underway Milton Keynes wearing an all red strip with a black and white vertical band upon the sides of the shirts and shorts along with a black ad white hoop upon the socks. King’s Lynn are wearing their new kit for the season sponsored by Adrian Flux Insurance, blue shirts with a yellow collar and sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Milton Keynes start on the attack the ball played out to Taylor Duffy on the left wing runs inside taking the ball into the box, King’s Lynn centre back Albany Hodgson closes her down pushing her away from goal before tackling putting the ball behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! The last thing you want to do when facing higher league opposition is concede an early goal, Milton Keynes have several tall players in their side those fill the box for the set piece flighted in towards the far post by Duffy, Sarah Harrison is there connects knocking the ball into the ground on target one bounce taking it past goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith into the back of the net 0-1. 2 minutes played.

A positive start from the visitors, King’s Lynn yet to settle pushed back as Milton Keynes push players forwards win another corner on the left played in near side towards the top of the box, Charley Aldridge locks onto the  ball her shot is deflected wide of goal by a King’s Lynn leg to concede another corner. The ball comes in central is cleared by Hodgson for King’s Lynn the home side attempt to break the ball played long for Elle Bocking to chase threatening to get in behind is tackled by Zoe Lander for Milton Keynes.

 Charlotte Murphy gets hold of the ball in the middle for Milton Keynes attempts to play the ball in behind for striker Sarah Payne to chase taking her to the right of goal attempts to lift the ball over the defence into the middle of the six yard box the ball cut out is turned behind for the corner. Plenty of bodies in the six yard box the referee spots a foul as the ball is turned in towards goal a nervous start from the hosts. 

 King’s Lynn look to make progress down the right side the ball into Becky Russell helped on for Josie Turner up front again Lander gets across her to slide the ball into goalkeeper Sophie Shults to clear up field a counter attack on the pass from midfield finds Duffy running clear on the left carrying the ball into the box King’s Lynn’s Shanice Burch times her tackle perfectly going to ground to take the ball away from Duffy and behind for the corner. 

King’s Lynn need someone to get hold of the ball in the middle of the park. Coming forwards Bethan Jones gets the ball up the pitch Russell 25 yards out headers the ball on in towards the top of the area, Turner makes the run in behind, Lander goes with her however and gets her head on the ball to play it into her keepers gloves.

GOAL! Just over 15 minutes played and King’s Lynn get themselves back on level terms with some good build up play the ball with midfielder Jade Kelly 30 yards out she has possession drives forwards fires the pass into Bocking left of the D good hold up play from the attacker sees Russell making a central run rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out central she lets fly straight at the keeper it dips late Shults goes to block with her gloves doesn’t get a good connection the ball slipping beyond her and to her dismay into the back of the net 1-1.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Becky Russell

Play is stretched Milton Keynes prepared to play a high line at times, King’s Lynn try to counter get their strikers in behind, Lander isn’t letting anything past her, last player on a couple of occasions times her tackles well. With Kelly finding a little more room to exploit King’s Lynn a posing a few problems going forwards. Risk being hit on the counter Milton Keynes quickly turning things around players going forwards Payne up front ready to break clear of the last defender a good tempo to the game. A shot wide from outside the box by Milton Keynes, Molly Corbett as she receives the lay off from Payne dribbling inside from the left.

King’s Lynn captain Shelley Woods playing on the left fires the ball in towards Turner inside the box her snap shot is wide of the near post. Harrison carries the ball forwards for Milton Keynes play in on for Murphy ahead of her, she in turn sends it on into the box with Payne breaking, Burch goes with her tackling to put the ball behind for a corner kick on the right. Players go forwards a high ball into the six yard box central is met by Milton Keynes, Abbey Roberts who sends her header up over the crossbar.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Shanice Burch

GOAL! Milton Keynes score soon after to retake the lead the ball won up field is lifted forwards picked up by Harrison central drives forwards his challenged by Russell outside the area, charged down the ball pops back to Harrison she hits it first time a sweet strike that flies like a bullet past the keeper before she can react into the back of the net 1-2.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Harrison

Milton Keynes make a change bringing right back Khakr off for Jemma Brittain. An injury blow for King’s Lynn, Kelly hurt as she goes in to tackle Duffy on the attack down the left side, the free kick awarded to the visitors Kelly can’t continue is carried off the pitch, Lisa Wilson coming on to join the action. Harrison to take the free kick the ball long towards the far post a touch but sent wide. Murphy wins Milton Keynes a corner on the right another good delivery into the box a point blank header from Harrison straight at Russell-Smith gloves it up into the air but claims as it falls. The referee plays an advantage as Duffy is brought down again on the left Taylor Shields on the overlap picking up the ball fires the diagonal ball inside to Murphy tees up a shot 20 yards out is wide of target.

Payne has been threatening to do it all through the 1st half, this time succeeds in beating the offside trap clear bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith comes rushing in to close her down, Payne shoots too close to the keeper takes a deflection off her putting it wide for the corner.

GOAL! The set-piece is played in from the left played up the line then fired into the area missed by the King’s Lynn defender attempting to clear runs through to Murphy beyond 8 yards from goal stabs her shot to the right of the keeper to score 1-3.

Up the other end Shults produces a fine save to deny Turner tipping her 20 yards strike over the bar, However both she and fellow striker Bocking had moved to soon as King’s Lynn looked to break as Jones and Russell break up another Milton Keynes attack. Penalty! A hand ball is spotted by the referee inside the King’s Lynn box as Milton Keynes attack down the left Duffy on the ball firing a ball into the area. It’s Duffy to take the spot kick fires her low drive narrowly wide of the left post the chance to extend their lead gone.

Payne finds herself in the clear again chasing another ball over the top 30 yards out closing in on the top of the area Russell-Smith comes out to close her down the pair collide as Payne squeezes her shot past the keeper the ball rolls wide across goal. Payne stays down a moment of concern as she clutches her ankle but it’s short lived as she gets back to her feet as the 1st half moves into stoppage time.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Sarah Payne

GOAL! Milton Keynes go on to grab a 4th goal in the closing seconds play stretched King’s Lynn over committing to an attack lose possession the ball is played long for Murphy as she moves out to the right attacking down the line beats the full back taking the ball inside the area closing in on the six yard box has Payne free in a central position picks her out a simple stroke into the back of the net 1-4.

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-4 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Changes for both sides at the beginning of the 2nd half a switch of goalkeepers for Milton Keynes, along with Khakr coming back on for Roberts. King’s Lynn make a change bringing on Vikki Burkauskaite for Wilson going into the left back position, sees Millie Wilson move inside to centre back with Hodgson pushed up into a midfield role. King’s Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half. 

The home side win an early free-kick on half-way Wilson to play the ball forwards left side into Woods combines with Turner the ball lifted in centrally into the box, Bocking getting onto the ball has just strayed offside. Hodgson wins the ball in the middle the pass on for Bocking up top good hold up play before shifting it out to Jones on the right shoots from the angle the 25 yard drive wide of the near post. A positive start to the 1st half from King’s Lynn. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Albany Hodgson

GOAL! 6 minutes into the 2nd half ad King’s Lynn pull a goal back a well timed run from Turner attacking left into the box as the ball is lifted forwards composure as she opens up her body to curl her shot wide of the keeper to score 2-4.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies – Josie Turner

GOAL! A sluggish start to the 2nd half from Milton Keynes the King’s Lynn goal waking them up the ball won in midfield played out to Duffy on the left side takes her the full back getting inside carries the ball on into the area before shooting firing a low strike across the keeper and into the far corner of the goal 2-5.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies – Taylor Duffy

Another chance for Duffy moments later as the ball is played into Payne central back to goal outside the D, works it wide into Duffy’s run as she charges into the box pulls the trigger shooting across goal this time the ball races wide of the far post. both sides make a change with Roberts back on for Milton Keynes replacing Harrison, Wilson back on for Jones. Good work from Russell on the right for King’s Lynn the ball rolled on for Bocking to attack inside the box sliding in at her feet the keeper can claim 1st. 

 Duffy plays an inviting cross in from the left Payne leaps inside the box a glancing header puts the ball wide of the far post from 10 yards out. What happened next I didn’t think was possible but even a 50+ goals a season striker can blaze over from 3 yards! King’s Lynn are attacking down the right good build up into Turner inside the box to the by line right of goal turns inside gets the ball past the keeper at the near post Woods is there unmarked looks certain to score but doesn’t the ball deflecting up off her boot over. 

GOAL! Moments from pulling it back to 3-5 Milton Keynes go up the other end and extend their lead, a swift counter move the ball turned around played wide to Duffy on the left an early diagonal cross into the box players free running in at the far post Payne and Murphy one of then turns the ball into the back of the net think it was Murphy but either way Milton Keynes lead 3-6.

A dominant spell from Milton Keynes follows King’s Lynn pushed back, Lee does well to keep Duffy getting inside the box before sliding in to challenge for the ball. Jones returns to the field for King’s Lynn replacing Hodgson. Milton Keynes press Payne picking up the ball centrally screws left then right before passing the ball forwards into the box for Roberts making the run, left of goal she shapes to shoot Russell-Smith dives in to save at her feet before Burch clears the ball. Harrison returns to the pitch for Milton Keynes as Duffy pushes inside from the left plays the pass across the top of the area into her inside the D, Harrison picks out Payne inside the box she drives her strike wide across goal.

Late into the game King’s Lynn have expanded alot of energy but break late on Russell finding space on the right cuts inside towards the area sees the keeper moving towards her opts for the early lob getting the ball over her, sees her effort bounce off the far post before Khakr gets back to clear. 

GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Milton Keynes score a 7th goal, Harrison has made several attacking runs throughout the game finding space tired legs in front of her now drives in right side into the area closing in on the by line cuts the cross back along the face of goal beating the keeper Payne running in with a defender far post both sliding in the ball ends up in the back of the net as Payne claims her 2nd of the game 2-7.

King’s Lynn push on late on in stoppage time Burkauskaite goes forwards getting in behind looks to turn inside get into the box closed down by Khakr the ball put behind for the corner left side Russell with the inswinging ball teasing bounces at the far post inside the six yard box but no one can connect as it goes out for the goal-kick.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-7 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

   The final whistle blows and Milton Keynes wrap up a 7-2 win as they prepare for the new season. Played well with some good individual performances and some well taken goals. A pre season friendly ultimately is about getting minutes in the legs, bedding in players and finding match sharpness in that regards a useful exercise for both sides. King’s Lynn recovering after a nervy start looked to be building momentum after equalising after Kelly started to find time on the ball, her injury a loss. Milton Keynes 1st team players having the experience to find the space and exploit it with Payne a good foil up front. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Today’s Women’s Football East (as a pose to the SWF Blog) – Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Done Ladies, Sarah Harrison good work on and off the ball always available for the pass and looking to make something happen carrying it forwards.

  The 1st match report of the new season, have missed it now rested up and ready to go with a new home can’t wait for the competitive action to begin so check back soon.

New Home for the SWF Blog

   As we prepare for a new season of women’s football, now is the perfect time to introduce a change of my own. Have been thinking about it for some time how to streamline my coverage of women’s football. My coverage of the game began with the Supporting Women’s Football Blog soon after the news regarding the rebranding of WSL side Lincoln Ladies. For 3 and a half season’s I have used it to help promote the women’s game up and down the country mostly writing match reports from the games I attend and even now it continues to grow. Soon after I came up with the idea for Women’s Football East a website designed to help in the promotion of women’s football in the East of England where I am based.

 At first I wanted it to stand on it’s own not cover the WSL at all as there wasn’t the WSL presence in the region. Only Watford Ladies based in Hertfordshire and Arsenal Women who play in Hertfordshire. As I started to cover more and more games in the region began writing the weekly Round-Up’s whilst also using the match reports featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. The Women’s Football East side of thing’s has grown even more rapidly however have been thinking for a while about combining both if the match reports are going to end up here anyway why not publish them here in the first place. 

 Now is the best time I’ve had a break away from the game. With Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC both joining the WSL in the last two season’s I feel Women’s Football East is ready to take over from the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. Is a wrench to give up the SWF Blog especially as I know it is still growing after all I’ve not posted anything for 2 months yet views remain high have a new following from the Netherlands and France as interest in the game is peaking in that part of Europe due to the Women’s Euros.

   Everything will almost stay the same the match reports and blog posts will continue as before just appear here instead of there. Women’s Football East is growing fast too and I need to spend more time on it suffered a little last season so stream lining thing’s will ultimately improve coverage for the whole of the region with the odd match further away dotted in between. Also find that Google’s blogspot platform and the wordpress based one I use for Women’s Football East are not always compatible which means the match reports don’t transfer as smoothly as I’d like familiar with both now going straight to wordpress will improve the quality of the match reports on here.

 The image at the top of the page (show below) will highlight where the Supporting Women’s Football Blog has gone but in time it will all be part of Women’s Football East. Won’t close the SWF Blog down however as there are plenty of memories on there from the past 3 and half years 290 match reports alone and you’ll still be able to access those. Match report 291 will be the 1st to be written up exclusively for Women’s Football East, finally began my season in Norfolk today with a trip to The Walks to watch King’s Lynn Town Ladies take on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and will bring you the action some time over the next 24 hours it was good to be back. 

 It’s a small change but I’ll miss the SWF Blog but I know bringing it together with Women’s Football East will ultimately better my coverage of the game well all love. Plenty more to come.

New page header image for Women’s Football East

 

Website Updating

Website Updating

Hello everyone hoping you’re all rested and recharged after a few weeks off? Although unlike me I see alot of you have kept on playing, can’t get enough can you? Just a quick post time to start preparing for a new season and will be updating and hopefully improving the website over the coming few weeks have decided to keep the site active during this time so you will slowly see the changes as they start to develop. Don’t think there will be to much disruption but I apologise in advance if it goes cock-eyed whilst I’m updating getting excited for the new season and I know there’s going to be several new sides competing next season and in some cases an extra league too. Will keep you updated about all as it comes in.

The Round-Up – 28/05/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th May

  The final edition of The Round-Up for the 2016/17 season  as the weekend saw the last fixtures played… well almost one to sneak in for Norfolk this Wednesday. Most teams played out a handful of games left to play in Essex and the biggest game in their history for FAWPL Southern Division Champions, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies as they took on the Northern Division Champions, Blackburn Rovers Ladies in the FAWPL Championship Play Off the overall winner clinching promotion to the FAWSL. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was there to cover the match and you can read all about it below.

FAWPL Championship Play Off

FAWPL Championship Play Off – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Blackburn Rovers Ladies

 

  The Clash of the Champions this Sunday at The Valley for the 3rd FAWPL Championship Play Off match between Tottenham Hotspur Ladies & Blackburn Rovers Ladies. 

  The Champions from the FAWPL Southern & Northern Divisions meeting to decide the overall winner and with it promotion to the FAWSL. A huge game in the women’s football calendar the biggest game in the history of both clubs. Sheffield FC Ladies & Brighton & Hove Albion WFC have won the previous two FAWPL Championship Play Off matches to celebrate promotion to the FAWSL, who will join them?

  Based in the East of England I have seen Tottenham Hotspur Ladies a few times over the past few years are one of the most exciting attacking women’s football sides to watch in the country, although they haven’t acheived the success in the league that their potential showed. Was just a matter of a few tweaks here and there for manager Karen Hills to find the winning formula on a regular basis and this season that potential has born fruit. 

 A competitive league Tottenham Hotspur Ladies have led for pretty much the whole of the season keeping ahead of rivals, Coventry United Ladies, Cardiff City Ladies and Charlton Athletic Women with a long unbeaten record clinching the FAWPL Southern Division title on a memorable night at White Hart Lane itself. Successfully defending the FAWPL Cup as well as winning the Boux Avenue Cup Final a fantastic treble, setting up what maybe a historic quadruple. Attackers Bianca Baptiste and Wendy Martin have netted 25 goals each so far this season.

  Blackburn Rovers Ladies wrapped up the FAWPL Northern Division back at the end of March finishing 11 points clear of the rest of the field going the entire league campaign unbeaten winning 17 of their 20 games. Manager Gemma Donnelly building on from last season’s 3rd place finish. Have won a double this season themselves defeating Flyde Ladies 1-0 in the final of the Lancashire Women’s County Cup Final. 

  Have only lost twice this season and both of those games in cup competitions to the narrowest of margins going down 4-3 after extra-time in the FAWPL Cup. Their other loss against Tottenham at home in the FA Women’s Cup back in February losing 2-1 Bianca Baptiste with both goals the 2nd in the last minute. Have plenty of goals in their attack too with Saffron Jordan on 22 for the season, Ella Toone with 21 goals.

  The venue for today’s game The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic FC. A stadium very much set in the heart of the community, quite well hidden surrounded by residential properties. A little bit of research and there are plenty of places to park nearby once you know where to look. An all seater stadium capacity 27,111 fantastic to see another high profile venue hosting a women’s football fixture. A large pitch still in great condition despite the it being the end of the domestic season a little wear, but no more than I saw at Carrow Road on Monday night. Promised to be a very warm day hot and sunny left the coat in the car… was going to regret that later on. The size of the pitch and the heat could well play there part for both sides playing their final game of a long season. Up in the 2nd tier for this one an eagle eye view of the action, no chance of getting a ball in the face for my efforts today…

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Lucia Leon, Leah Rawle, Jenna Schillaci (C), Renee Hector, Josie Green, Sophie Mclean, Maya Vio, Ronnell Humes, Wendy Martin & Bianca Baptiste.
 subs – Shannon Moloney, Riana Soobadoo, Eartha Pond, Kelley Blanchflower & Katie O’Leary.

 Blackburn Rovers Ladies starting XI – Danielle Hill, Danielle Whitham, Kelsey Pearson, Kayleigh McDonald, Ellie Stewart, Lynda Shepherd (C), Jess Holbrook, Ella Toone, Natasha Fenton, Faye McCoy & Saffron Jordan
 subs – Alex Taylor, Hannah Fryer, Ria Montgomary, Emma Rankin & Ellie Cook.

  The pre-match formalities done time for everyone inside the stadium to pause and reflect like so many other events across the country, a minutes silence to remember the 22 victims of Monday’s terrible bomb attack in Manchester along with those injured some still fighting for their lives in hospital.

  It’s Blackburn to get the FAWPL Championship Play Off match underway kicking off 1st half, wearing their away colours red shirts with maroon horizontal stripes, black shorts and red socks with Tottenham lined up in their traditional white coloured shirts with navy shorts and socks. A break in play early on after Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci stays down after a challenge from Blackburn’s Natasha Fenton concern as she stays down gingerly back on her feet, Sophie McLean dropping into the back four whilst she is assessed off the pitch the crowd cheering when their captain is able to return.

  Blackburn look to get the ball into Fenton wide right winning the throw in the ball worked in field is sent high into the area the cross long to the far post looking to pick out Ella Toone is claimed high by goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne inside her six yard box. Tottenham come forwards the ball played into Martin over halfway she sends it on picking out Bianca Baptiste coming off the left flank getting in behind, Blackburn goalkeeper Danielle Hill out quickly to the top of her area to meet the striker sliding in stops the ball is hurt as she and Baptiste come together, the trainer on Hill is up on her feet after another lengthy spell of treatment.

  Hill is soon in the action again after the restart as Renee Hector comes forwards from the back with the ball for Tottenham rolls it on for Ronnell Humes attacking down the right side taking the ball to the byline clips it back in towards goal, Hill claiming it high above her head with runners closing in. A free-kick for Tottenham wide right inside the Blackburn half as Baptiste is  caught by Fenton players lining up along the top of the area as Baptiste plays the ball into the area a good punch from Hill as the delivery comes in centrally top of the six yard box falls to Lucia Leon just inside the box looks to place her header back in towards goal, Hill is able to claim.

  Warm out there in the opening 15 minutes players from both sides taking the opportunity to take on fluids. Both sides moving the ball about the pitch using it’s full width. Leon comes forwards with the ball from a goalkick has Humes aiming to get in behind ahead of her slides the ball into her run, Hill comes to block with her feet, Tottenham regain possession back with Leon wide right her cross long into the area is again claimed well by Hill with Baptiste coming in around the back. 

  Tottenham building some momentum getting hold of the ball Mclean on the ball plays the ball on for Humes to chase in behind on the right Hill out of her area wins the race slices her clearance, from the resulting throw in Hector is fouled taken quickly the ball rolled inside is squared into Baptiste her back to goal inside the D, knocks the ball away her intention to turn and strike the ball from 25 yards out her shot taking a deflection off Blackburn’s Ellie Stewart goes away for the corner kick.

  Taken by Schillaci on the right a good delivery into the six yard box, Hill comes through bodies near post to get a fist on the ball punch it away dropping to Humes just inside the area she attempts the 1st time lob the ball looping up and down lands on the roof of the Blackburn net. Leah Rawle with the opportunity to carry the ball forwards from left back for Tottenham links up with Martin in fired 25 yards from goal she helps it on into the area with Baptiste coming in off the wing a good challenge from Blackburn’s Kayleigh McDonald to deny her a shot on goal, wouldn’t have counted anyway as the assistants flag is raised for offside.

Jess Holbrook bringing the ball forwards for Blackburn Rovers Ladies

  Midway through the 1st half an intriguing contest both sides attacking with purpose, the ball brought on by Jess Holbrook for Blackburn the ball out wide right a throw won. Fenton sending a high ball into the area to claimed by Wayne. Pressure from Holbrook and captain Lynda Shepherd the ball played down the right as Blackburn come on again the ball played into Jordan’s feet outside the area right looks to get inside as she helps it on for Toone who rolling her mark plays the ball into Jordan 8 yards out gets her foot on the ball stabbing it past Wayne but also wide across the goal, Blackburn’s best chance of the game so far.

Tottenham’s Maya Vio winning the header against Blackburn captain, Lynda Shepherd

  A good spell from Blackburn, Shepherd pressing the ball in the middle charges it down firing the pass on for Toone ahead of her left outside the box 20 yards out goes for goal, pulls her shot away from goal wide of the ear post. 30 minutes on the clock, Kelsey Pearson coming on with the ball down the left for Blackburn plays the one two with Toone the full back going on her cross charged down by Hector.

 GOAL! 10 minutes of the 1st half left and Tottenham open the scoring the ball is played up to McLean inside the centre circle plays it into Martin to her right bringing it forwards, Baptiste makes a great run across the top of the area left to right, is onside as Martin threads the pass into her run, taking it on into the area wide of goal fires it back across the keeper, not much pace on the ball no one there to stop it however strikes the base of the far post the rebound taking it into the back of the net 1-0.

Bianca Baptiste scores the opening goal for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

  Another good opportunity for Tottenham after the restart Schillaci’s tun to bring the ball out from the back left side rolls it on for Baptiste out wide, squares the ball into the area, Martin finding an extra yard of pace looking to get onto the end of it knocks it on getting a shot away as she is challenged the ball going away wide across the face of goal the corner given. Leon defends well against Toone at the back for Tottenham brings the ball forwards a long way up the pitch riding a tackle plays the ball into Humes wide right top of the area she fires it into Martin central attempts to help it on for Baptiste coming inside from the left, McDonald making a vital interception for Blackburn. 

Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Blackburn Rovers Ladies

  A narrow lead for Tottenham at the break, have created  several chances going forwards looked the better side early on without finding the break through, Blackburn coming into the game almost opened the scoring themselves before Baptiste got in behind to score. Still all to play for 2nd half.
  No changes for either side as Tottenham kick off the 2nd half. Start well getting forwards with the ball Mclean slices her shot over the bar from just inside the box. Mclean bringing the ball forwards then picks out Martin drifting out to the right her cross into the box cut out by Stewart. Green is fouled by McCoy as she comes forwards the free-kick awarded 30 yards from goal, play is paused a problem for Wayne as she comes over to the bench looks like a problem with the goalkeepers contact lenses is fixed play resuming.
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Sophie Mclean
  Baptiste rolling the free-kick on for Schillaci to play into the area a great ball there to be attacked far post runners coming in it’s Blackburn’s Stewart who wins the header the threat cleared. Mclean with another good run plays the ball into Humes inside the area right corner her initial shot charged down rebounds back to her spinning strikes the ball on the half-volley her effort collected by Hill at her near post. 
  Up the other end Fenton sees a good diagonal ball into her down onto her chest outside the area right plays it central for Jordan in space outside the D does get over the ball her shot off target. Another free-kick for Tottenham in a similar position to their earlier opportunity Schillaci to play the ball into the area this time it’s Blackburn’s McDonald who gets the ball clear. A little frustration creeping in for Blackburn a few decisions going against them 2nd half, coming forwards Fenton on the right no cross on plays it back inside goes long to the left with Toone arriving in the box, knocking it forwards Hector gets a across recovering well to play the ball off Toone for the goal kick, the Blackburn attacker kicks the ball away in annoyance is yellow carded by referee Sarah Garrett.
  Blackburn come the closest yet to finding a leveller denied by the woodwork getting plenty forwards Holbrook out to Fenton wide right lifts the ball into the box across the six yard area Toone in around the back far post headers the ball down back across goal, Jordan throws herself at the ball connecting with her boot the ball flies up to smash against the crossbar, still in play Tottenham scramble it clear. Just past the hour mark the temperature has cooled clouds starting to build.
Blackburn Rovers Ladies, Saffron Jordan
 
  An hour played Tottenham attack the ball rolled into Humes on the right has Baptiste with her on that side sends the ball on down the line for her to chase down, Baptiste firing an inviting cross into the area, a slip by the defender in the middle the ball just behind Martin beyond looks to go after it left side take it back in towards goal is closed down and tackle by Whitham. 
 GOAL! Tottenham double their lead in the 66th minute Baptiste with  her 2nd of the match. Green bringing the ball on down the left sends Humes through on the left taking the ball in into the area cuts it back to Baptiste top of the area, power and pace moving to her right is well marshalled by the Blackburn defence yet she still manages to get a shot away cutting the all back across the keeper, Hill tries to readjust diving to her right but can’t get there 2-0.

 Tottenham make the 1st change of the game on 68 minutes bringing of Humes, Katie O’Leary who has been sidelined with injury for much of the season coming on. Into the last 20 minutes, Blackburn push forwards needing a response, Wayne collecting comfortably as Fenton tries her luck from distance. A great delivery from a corner kick for Tottenham from Schillaci, an inviting ball across the top of the six yard box Martin just missing her connection with the header.   A double change for Blackburn with 15 minutes left, Fenton and Toone the players coming off, Ria Montgomary and Emma Rankin on. Charging down a Tottenham ball in the middle, Holbrook hits it 1st time lacks the pace to trouble Wayne. Leon breaks forwards with the ball for Tottenham coming inside rolls the ball into Martin getting in behind centrally Whitman across to tackle slides in to win the ball inside the area.

Blackburn’s Faye McCoy holding off Tottenham’s Josie Green

  Into the last 10 minutes, Tottenham keeping possession at the back. Blackburn whenever they get the ball ball play t up into their attackers a throw on the left Stewart takes into McCoy playing it back to Stewart her cross into the area chested down by Jordan but won by Schillaci before the striker and fashion a shot. Blackburn keep possession players in and around the box as Whitham attacks down the right no way past Rawle wins a corner played high into the six yard box Wayne gets a glove on the ball knocking it out to the top of the area McCoy attempts to head the ball back in towards goal Wayne takes the ball down on her goal line.

  Both sides make another substitution the last throw of the dice for Blackburn Alex Taylor coming on for McCoy. Riana Soobadoo coming on for Rawle for Tottenham with under 5 minutes of normal time left. Blackburn throw everyone forwards Tottenham hold firm. 4 minutes of tie added on Shannon Moloney another who has missed much of the season through injury comes on for Tottenham replacing Vio. Leon surges forwards letting fly from 22 yards her shot swerving through the air is likely going wide Hill brings it down cleanly launches it up the pitch. 

  Blackburn send the ball up into the area Jordan with a deft header attempts to knock it down into the path of the onrushing Taylor, Wayne comes well sliding gets hold of the ball.

 GOAL! Tottenham seal the win in stoppage time as Wayne kicks the ball long bouncing over halfway, Blackburn with a high line Martin is after the ball striking it from 25 yards out lobbing the keeper the ball landing in the back of the net to make it 3-0. Martin’s is mobbed by her team mates in celebration. 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Wendy Martin

 In the excitement Moloney has hurt herself ad is carried off Tottenham down to 10 to see out the game. Another injury concern late on as Blackburn play the ball on into the area a comfortable take by Wayne on the bounce top of the area she is clattered into by Taylor. Both need the trainer on Taylor is booked. Wayne is struggling but eventually gets to her feet albeit limping. Moloney having received treatment isn’t 100% ready to return but sent back on. Tottenham’s goal isn’t troubled as the final whistle blows and the celebrations begin.

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-0 Blackburn Rovers Ladies

Celebration’s at the final whistle as Tottenham win the FAWPL Championship Play Off
 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies win the FAWPL Championship Play Off, doing the quadruple to cap off a memorable season. Two well taken goals from Baptiste with Martin’s lob sealing the result. The FAWPL Southern Division Champions achieving promotion to the FAWSL. Looked the better side in the opening exchanges, although it was Blackburn who came closest to getting the opening goal before Baptiste saw Tottenham into the lead before half-time. Rattling the bar Blackburn worked hard to try and get back on level terms before conceding again. A tough one to take a bittersweet end to the season are Champions themselves little comfort at the final whistle but have had a superb season.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

 A few contenders for the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today. Thought Lucia Leon did very well for Tottenham defensively and coming forwards with the ball, Sophie Mclean too was all action getting stuck in in the middle of the park and getting forwards. However her two goals set Tottenham on their way the 2nd particularly well taken, pace power and good movement up top the Player of the Match goes to Bianca Baptiste.
 
Champagne time!
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, FAWPL Play Off Champions
  Congratulations to Tottenham Hotspur Ladies on winning today’s FAWPL Championship Play Off match and achieving promotion to FAWSL 2.
  Is subject to meeting the FA’s criteria of course but I suspect that will be a formality and look forwards to watching them compete in the FAWSL next season.
  An excellent crowd of 826 in attendance. My thanks to Charlton Athletic FC’s Tom Rubashow for his assistance today and to the clubs stewards who couldn’t have been more helpful a credit to the club.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

The final weekend of the season in Essex a few sides with games to play 4 clubs playing double headers to end their campaign. Chelmsford City Ladies secured runners up spot in the Essex Women’s Premier Division edging out Lawford Ladies picking up 4 points from their two games against Wickford Town Ladies. Mia Brisley netting a brace in a 2-0 win for Chelmsford City in the 1st game. The points were shared in the 2nd, Shannon Hughes and Tyler Christou on target for Chelmsford City, Wickford Town earning a point with a 2-2 draw ending their 1st season in the Premier Division in 9th.

In the other double header Walden Ladies couldn’t get the win they needed against Collier Row Tigers as they lost both games going down 2-0 and 8-0 which sees them finish bottom of the Premier Division a point behind Alresford Colne Rangers. The 6 point haul for Collier Row Tigers seeing them climb above Runwell Sports Ladies into 5th on goal difference on the final day.

Essex Women’s Division One

A big win away from home on the final day of the season against their closest rivals Corringham Cosmos saw Frontiers Ladies already Champions of Division One finish the season unbeaten with just the one draw. 7 points clear at the top in the end after Corringham Cosmos had pushed them all the way. Sharon Ferguson scoring 4 goals in the match. There were final day goals too for Hayley King, Kay Foy, Jackie Day and Claire Davidson in an 8-1 victory for Frontiers top goal scorers in the league with 133, edging Corringham by 2. It’s their defensive record that stands out with just the 7 goals conceded in the league all season, going to be a force to be reckoned with in the Premier Division next season.

The Round-Up – 21/05/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st May

The season is very nearly at an end just a handful of games left to squeeze in most leagues played out. You would think teams would be ready for the rest but most are gearing up for summer tournaments or already recruiting for the new season. The penultimate Sunday with games needing to be played by the 28th a shortened edition of The Round-Up with just the 4 matches being played in the end.

FAWPL South East Division One

One game outstanding in the FAWPL South East Division One and it was a must win game at home for Norwich City Ladies that would guarantee the club safety in the league if they could get the 3 points lift the 2nd bottom club above Stevenage Ladies ending their season 2 points ahead on 15. Norwich knew what they had to do after last Sunday’s fixtures with 2 games left to play were on 10 points needed to win both to have any chance. 

  Were hosting Lowestoft Town Ladies in a local derby match at Plantation Park, Lowestoft Town bottom already relegated looking to end on a high. With heavy rain falling it was Norwich who got off to a flyer going 2-0 up inside the opening 8 minutes with goals from Natasha Snelling and Chelsea Garrett. Lowestoft Town came back into the game however to level the scores before half-time a superb long range strike from Tiffany Forshaw after Norwich goalkeeper Fiona Coombes had come rushing out of her box to close down Lowestoft captain Hannah Waters, this was followed by another driving shot from outside the box by Ciera Flatt to make it 2-2

  2nd half saw Lowestoft start the strong creating a number of opportunities, Norwich’s Coombes with some excellent stops and brave goalkeeping keeping the scores level. Into the last 10 minutes and Norwich were awarded a free-kick outside the box, Aimee Durrant hitting a superb ball up and over the wall angling away from the goalkeeper into the top corner to make it 3-2. Kyla Love make it 4-2 as Lowestoft pushed for another leveller late on. You can read the report from the match by clicking on the link below. 

Norwich City Ladies 4-2 Lowestoft Ladies

Part one of the great escape completed Norwich faced a tougher test at home this Sunday in a must win game against Luton Town Ladies who had secured 5th on the FAWPL South East Division One table. Jess McKay giving Luton Town the lead 1-0 up at half-time. Norwich City found the resolve to get themselves back into the match Ebony Wiseman scoring early in the 2nd half to level things up at 1-1 then 5 minutes later Wiseman put Norwich into the lead, the side holding on to the 2-1 advantage, the 3 points won the team celebrating on the pitch had done it got the 2 wins taking them onto 16 points and guaranteeing their safety in the league for another season.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

   Back to back promotions for Gorleston FC Ladies having wrapped up the Norfolk Women’s Division Two a while ago were playing Long Stratton Ladies in their final game of the season their opponents needed a point to over haul Stalham Town Ladies and finish 3rd. Gorleston were looking to end on a high however and ended the campaign with a comfortable 7-0 win. Bethany Turner, Samantha Hunn and Kayleigh Byrne all netting a brace with Molly Sims on target to score the other goal as they prepare for next season in Division One.

Essex Women’s Premier Division

 Two games in the Essex Women’s Premier Division, 2nd placed Lawford Ladies moving 3 points clear of 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies with a good result at home to Walden Ladies winning 6-0. Have one more game to play at home to Chigwell this Sunday. 

Wickford Town Ladies were at home to Chigwell Ladies this Sunday goals from Lois Curson, Sabrina Campbell & Patricia McWeeney seeing Wickford win 3-0 the points taking them above Chigwell into 8th position. Wickford Town are away to Chelmsford City Ladies for their final match of the season.

  Several games outstanding in the league or rather the ruling on postponed games where the sides pulled out unable to field a team a home or away win will be awarded will update the table as those details emerge.

The Round-Up – Essex 14/05/17

The Round-Up

Essex – Sunday 14th May

Essex Women’s Premier Division

A handful of matches in Essex this weekend as the season begins to draw to a close two games played in the Women’s Premier Division with the contest for the runners-up spot looking to go all the way with 2nd placed Lawford Ladies travelling on Sunday to take on 3rd placed Chelmsford City Ladies both level on 40 points. Are still level on points after this weekends game sharing them with a 2-2 draw. Niki Medici and Tyler Christou scoring for Chelmsford City.

Eastern Avenue in 5th place in the table are closing in on 4th placed Runwell Sports Ladies winning away to Walden Ladies on Sunday picking up the 3 points with a 4-1 victory already awarded a home win for this coming Sunday’s game will finish now secure a 4th place finish.

Essex Women’s Division One

One game played in Essex Women’s Division One and Frontiers Ladies are confirmed as League Champions after they got the point they needed on Sunday at home to Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. A local derby it was Harlow Town who took the lead Tayla Handscombe with the goal. Frontiers levelled the score in the 20th minute with Sharon Ferguson on target. Frontiers went into the dressing room at half time trailing 2-1 after Taylor O’Leary restored Harlow Town’s lead. 

  Frontiers got it back to 2-2 with 13 minutes of the 2nd half played Kay Foy scoring the goal, then Frontiers went on to take the lead for the 1st time in the match Emma Parker making it 3-2. The 3 points weren’t to be however as for the 3rd time in the game the scores were levelled Harlow Town coming back to make it 3-3 O’Leary with her 2nd of the game. The 1st points dropped this season in the league by Frontiers, the point however all they needed to secure the title with a game to spare in their 1st season together in the Essex Women’s Football League.

Congratulations to Frontiers Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s Division One title.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 14/05/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 14th May

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Everything was settled in the Norfolk leagues this Sunday, In Division One, Thorpe United Ladies got the point they needed to win the league. Away to Brandon Town Ladies on Sunday who had eaten them 1-0 earlier in the season, Thorpe United got the 3 points this time around winning by a single goal themselves Vivian Moyo the scorer to see them celebrate becoming Champions.

Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies no winning Norfolk Women’s Division One.

2nd place was also decided and it was a fantastic result away from home for Bungay Town Ladies in great form since the start of the year a hat-trick from Laura Holden seeing them beat King’s Lynn Town Ladies 3-2 their goals scored by Millie Hopkisson and Jade Kelly. A great season all round for Bungay Town Ladies who also won the League Cup. King’s Lynn finishing 3rd were challenging for the title all season.

  Aylsham FC Ladies also got the win at the weekend as they hosted North Walsham Angels Ladies who need a point from their remaining 4 games to secure a 4th place finish.   The visitors scored twice with Hope Middleton and Abigail Storey on target, it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game however as a hat-trick from Becky Hills saw Aylsham win the match 3-2.

  The bottom two met with Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies hosting Fakenham Town Ladies. Kirkley & Pakefield ended a difficult season on a high with a 2-0 win to pull them level on points with Fakenham who still have a game left to play.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

One game left to be played in Norfolk Women’s Division Three and as I wrote last week a win for Tavern Ladies at home to Freethorpe Ladies would see them finish top of the table in their 1st season. A brace from Lucy Kean along with a goal for Emily Bell saw them win the game 3-0, however congratulations were premature as it turned out they had in fact finished 2nd in the table pipped by Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves after they were warded 3 more points dating back to a game in March against East Coast Ladies who had fielded an ineligible player. East Coast Ladies deducted a total of 15 points over all.

 Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on winning the league and Tavern finishing 2nd both promoted.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 14/05/17

The Round-Up

Cambridgeshire – Sunday 14th May

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

  Final day of the season in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Treble winners, Cambridge United WFC Reserves had already secured the league, but the positions below them remained up for grabs, the Champions were at home on Sunday taking on Netherton United Ladies currently holding 2nd place a point or better would secure runners-up spot.

It was Netherton who took the lead in the game Megan Strickland putting the ball home in the 14th minute. The lead didn’t last long however Cambridge scoring from a corner 3 minutes later. A straight red card for Cambridge’s Kirsty Geal as she handled the ball inside the box the referee sending her off awarding Netherton a penalty which captain Megan Parrett duly dispatched to see the visitors lead 2-1. The scores were levelled once again Strickland putting the ball into her own net trying to defend a corner. 2-2 at half-time Netherton were to go and and take the lead for a 3rd time Natalie Gaches scoring to make it 3-2. Netherton going on to win the game and secure 2nd. Further red cards were shown as tempers flared with Cambridge ending the game with 8 on the pitch, 2 players shown a 2nd yellow, not the end to the season Cambridge United WFC Reserves were looking for in manager Kevin Hoover’s last game in charge however a memorable season for the side looking to provide a strong supporting role to the 1st team as they step up to the next level. 

After a shaky start to the season a good run at the end seeing Netherton finish both runner-up to Cambridge United WFC Reserves in both the league and league cup final a good platform to push on next season. You can read the clubs report for the game by clicking on the link below.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves 2-3 Netherton United Ladies

Newmarket Town Ladies had been leading the Premiership table for much of the season with Cambridge United WFC Reserves, results going against them towards the end of the season had slipped to 5th place, one game left could reclaim 4th with a good result at home against ICA Sports Ladies. Goals from Nadine Basson, Abbi Griffin, Lauren Deller, Dominika Szary along with a brace for Jordanne Sillitoe saw Newmarket Town end on a high with a 6-1 win, securing 4th spot, the club is ambitious however and 4th isn’t what they were looking for. Shannon Coupland with the goal for ICA Sports Ladies.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

  The Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North has a handful of games left before it concludes next Sunday. March Town United Ladies are Champions, will be playing in the Premiership next season having been out in front all season. The sides below them have changed positions regularly, some looking strong at the start falling away towards the end of the season, others starting slow getting better as the season progressed. March Town United were away to Boston United Ladies new to the league this season were slow starters but have bolstered there squad during the season getting better, got off to a flyer against March leading 3-0 inside the opening 20 minutes, Tracey Duxbury-Mead and Demi Barai amongst the goals. March responded pushing forwards Georgia Brown hitting the inside of the post with a 30 yard strike then went on to score pull it back to 3-1 but ultimately March were left frustrated creating good opportunities to score whilst goalkeeper Tori Sharpe kept them in the game up the other end lost for the 2nd time this season.

March Town United Ladies, Georgia Brown in on goal to score (photo credit Jon Sharpe)

  Boston United climb up into 2nd spot with the 3 points as they finish a positive 1st season. Can only be caught by Swineshead Institute Ladies now in 4th at home to Wisbech St Mary Ladies this coming Sunday.

Wisbech St Mary Ladies had a good result at home in their penultimate game of the season taking on bottom side Thurlby Tigers who were playing for the last time this season. Lauren Laws putting Wisbech St Mary into the lead in the 2nd minute. Catherine Ray and Frances Peeling both scored to see the home side 3-0 after just 15 minutes. Thurlby kept their goal intact from further damage in the 1st half. Ray with her 2nd of the game made it 4-0 10 minutes into the 2nd half. A 2nd goal of the game for Laws too with 15 minutes left before Peeling wrapped up a hat-trick with 2 more goals in the last 10 minutes to see Wisbech St Mary win 7-0.

Hungate Rovers Ladies were away to Peterborough based P&L Motors Diamonds in their final match of the season scoring twice through Katie Ingram and Laura Punter it wasn’t enough for Hungate Rovers to secure a 4th win of the season as they went down 3-2. P&L Motors Diamonds are away to March Town United Ladies for their final game in their 1st season as a team a point would see them secure a 5th place finish.