Category Archives: Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Match Report – Newmarket Town Women Development v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Sunday 27th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One

April drawing to a close, well into the business end of the season, lots still to play for, however I thought I’d go for something a little different this Sunday, visit two club in a celebratory mood having both claimed silverware already this season, from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football league a trip to Newmarket, their women’s Development side lifting the League Cup hosting the new Division One Champions, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds.

 Just a handful of games left to play in Cambridgeshire Division One, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds under new manager Shane Lebbon wrapping up the Division One title with games to spare, today their final match of the season. Newmarket Town Women Development lifting the League Cup just over two weeks ago with 3 games left, in third amongst a cluster of sides vying for that position in the table.

Newmarket Town Women Development fishing the campaign on a high, considering they lost their 3 opening matches of the season, have rallied well picking up points and going all the way in the League Cup. At the heart of a club built very much on youth with players in the current development side having played for Newmarket at various age groups and some of this side featuring for the first team itself this season. Losing 4-3 at Fulbourn on the opening day of the season, were to play them again in the semi-finals of the League Cup 2-0 down at the break came roaring back 2nd half to win the game 5-2 to reach the final. Goals throughout the side, Amber May just ahead as top scorer with 14 so far from her 14 matches with Cerys Bithell one behind on 13 from her 18 games, Alex Shelford and Ailie Rennie on 6 goals apiece.

Shane Lebbon enjoying a long coaching spell with Newmarket prior to taking a break from coaching, persuaded to come back to coach Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Celebrating their 20th season. I saw them play in their very first game of the season eventually going out on penalties in the FA Women’s Cup prior to the new Division One campaign starting, on paper looked the favourites it was just a case of seeing who would emerge as a likely challenger, as it was Fulbourn would only lose one game and draw one other on their way to clinching the title. Have one of the most potent attacks in Cambridgeshire, scoring 105 between them last season finishing runners-up in both the league and league cup. Ellie Woodley scoring 41 of those goals, she’s been on fire again this season rattling in another 39 goals in just 19 matches. Captain, Marie Stubbings is no slouch in front of goal either 21 last season, has fired home 25 this campaign. Well backed up by Ebony Crook and Megan Chandler who both have 12 each.

Newmarket Town FC’s, Tristel Stadium the venue for this afternoon encounter. The cork based artificial playing surface a good size, well used throughout the season. Over looked by a seated covered stand beside the changing rooms and clubhouse, the bar open to serve cold drinks, needed today with the weather very warm for the end of April with a mini heat wave on the horizon. Bright and sunny a little cloud around but no rain any time soon.

Newmarket Town Women Development starting XI – Charlotte Duhy, Jess Linger (C), Eden Kirby-Cook, Rebecca Reynolds, Jazmine Sarpong, Sophie Carter, Caranta Peyton, Amelia Thompson, Alex Shelford, Cerys Bithell & Amber May. Subs – Holly Corley, Niamh Bridgeman, Cerys Compton, Abi Gibson & Ruby Lakey.

Newmarket Town Women Development

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Emily Facerova, Seema Grewal, Alex Milner, Jess Adams, Jess Anderson, Hollie Turner, Nat Wells, Ebony Crook, Marie Stubbings (C), Megan Chandler & Ellie Woodley. Subs – Amy Smith, Grace Muffett, Caragh Dangerfield & Eve Seyf.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Newmarket to get the game started kicking off the first half wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. Fulbourn lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts with claret sleeves, claret shorts and sky blue socks. The ball lifted into Jazmine Sarpong in the Newmarket defence, clipped long into the right channel for Cerys Bithell to attack, Alex Milner getting it under control for Fulbourn the visitors work the ball into the middle, Hollie Turner sending it out to right wing, Eden Kirby-Cook winning it back for the hosts.

A tentative start both sides playing probing balls forwards easily cut out neither making any head way. Megan Chandler coming inside with the ball from the left for Fulbourn looknig to send Ellie Woodley in behind the Newmarket defence with a diagonal ball in to the right of the area, Newmarket goalkeeper, Charlotte Duhy out quickly to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball.

Amelia Thompson getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park for Newmarket getting on the drive coming right sends the pass on for Bithell making the run ahead of her coming inside into the box taking the ball on pushing hard on goal the angle closing at the near post strikes the ball, rising, Fulbourn goalkeeper, Emily Facerova coming to close the angle getting her gloves up above her head to beat the ball down into the turf get hold of the ball.

Amelia Thompson bringing Newmarket forwards

Newmarket lively pushing players on as they gain possession of the ball inside the Fulbourn half, Sophie Carter on for Thompson threaded through the defence into Amber May’s feet left of the D, Facerova rushing out to close her down slides in making the blocking save at May’s feet the ball deflected away to the left, Alex Shelford getting forwards to lift a cross back into the six yard box, Facerova back on her feet, recovering to grab hold of the ball.

Alex Shelford coming forwards with the ball for Newmarket

Fulbourn look to advance on the right, Crook taking the ball on, Kirby-Cook tackling to win the ball back, Newmarket counter attack the ball into the middle Thompson driving on into the left channel closed down by Fulbourn’s, Jess Adams. Caranta Peyton stealing in to win the ball central for Newmarket forwards into Thompson, shifts it between her feet taking the ball right fed into Bithell right of goal 20 yards out, spins off, Milner to break into the box blazes her strike over the crossbar.

Fulbourn captain, Marie Stubbings gathers the ball into her feet on half way turns to lead the charge forwards through the middle, running into traffic as the Newmarket defence look to close the door, Payton lunging in to get hold of the ball outside the D. Nat Wells coming away with the ball central for Fulbourn clipping it into the left wing for Woodley to chase down pushing for the area cuts inside looks to cross, Newmarket captain, Jess linger throwing out a leg to cut out the cross.

Newmarket captain, Jess Linger.

Linger bringing the ball on from the back right side lifted into Thompson in the middle, making a determined run not letting go of the ball feeds it into the right wing for Bithell bursting forwards wrapping her foot around the cross hoists it into the six yard box, Facerova there to claim the ball. Turner with Wells in the centre for Fulbourn the ball rolled forwards into Stubbings has Woodley two her left the pair exchanging passes as they look to find a way in behind the Newmarket defence, Woodley succeeding, Stubbings clear into the area, Duhy rushing out to close her down making herself big as she goes to ground, saving Stubbings shot against her outstretched leg the ball deflected behind to the right for a corner kick.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Charlotte Duhy

Flung into the near post, Turner rising looking to knock the ball on towards goal doesn’t get a solid connection with her head the ball loose in the six yard box, Newmarket scramble it clear. Kirby-Cook bringing the ball on left side exchanging passes with Alex Shelford before playing a long ball on through the channel for May to attack in behind, Facerova breaking out from her goal to the top of her area winning the race.

Despite the heat there is a high tempo to the match both sides keen to get the ball into their attackers, Wells cutting a pass out in the middle for Fulbourn the ball sent out to Woodley on the left flank darts forwards turning inside getting into the box on the angle looks to put the ball across the keeper, with Crook making a run far post, Duhy getting down smartly too grab hold of the ball.

Peyton tries to thread the ball into May’s run as she goes in behind to the left of the D, Facerova alert out sharply to the top of her area to get her gloves around the ball. Fulbourn see the ball into Turner’s feet central lifts the diagonal pass out to Crook wide right taking the ball on sends a cross angling into the near post, Rebecca Reynolds getting there ahead of Woodley to turn ball off the attacker for a goal kick.

Caranta Peyton

May lively in attack for Newmarket looking to get into the channels run in behind the Fulbourn defence, Thompson looking to pick her out, Facerova racing out of her area to kick the ball clear. Newmarket winning a throw high on the right, May combining with Bithell the pair forcing a corner kick. The hosts asking a few questions Thompson getting forwards linking up with May, Adams in to tackle, out to Shelford on the left comes inside May wanting the ball Newmarket winning a foul 35 yards out to the left of goal. Linger, Newmarket’s dead ball specialist, lines up the strike an ambitious effort drives it wide of the far post.

Players into each other contesting the ball, Fulbourn up on the right winning a throw a high ball into the box headed behind by Crook. Bithell having caught a elbow in the face earlier bleeding, needs to come off, 20 played an opportunity for players to take on fluids. Niamh Bridgeman coming on taking up Bithell’s attacking berth on the left. Shelford looking to get hold of the ball on the left driving on Seema Grewal going with her the full back challenging playing the ball off the winger to see it behind for a goal kick.

Alex Shelford with Fulbourn’s Seema Grewal

Fulbourn move the ball forwards with pace lifted on for Woodley moving right 30 yards out sweeps a cross into the six yard box slightly behind Stubbings making the central run stretches to get onto the ball blasting her shot against the keeper at close range rebounds to Crook top of the area he first time strike rifled back in cannoning down off the crossbar, Sarpong for Newmarket clearing hooking the loose ball away to the right.

Newmarket undeterred as Carter carries the ball on through the middle linking up with Thompson moves it quickly forwards into Bridgeman looking to get in behind wide right racing to the by-line looking to cut her cross back into the area, Milner going with her stretching out a leg to put in the block turn the ball behind for a corner kick. Fired in central from the right, Reynold’s Newmarket’s tallest player leaping up can’t quite get her head on the ball as it drops beyond the far post, Fulbourn getting it away to safety.

Amelia Thompson

Half an hour played despite the heat both sides moving the ball forwards with pace, Newmarket looking to play some intricate passes as they work the ball on, Carter on with Thompson central fed into may 20 yards out top of the D, turns to shoot, Turner charging the ball down for Fulbourn. Stubbings turn to get on the move through the middle with the ball at her feet, Chandler ahead of her ready to receive the ball, Woodley coming in from the left looking for the pass, Chandler sending it on, Sarpong throwing out a leg for Newmarket to intercept the ball.

Newmarket defender, Jazmine Sarpong

Going away to the left for a throw in Fulbourn look to get on with in dropped into Stubbings played across the top of the Newmarket box running on for Woodley outside the D, looks to strike it first time, Reynolds moving in to close her down, doesn’t get hold it it, the ball running harmlessly through to Duhy.

Fulbourn’s Ellie Woodley

Newmarket bring the ball on with Thompson on possession rolls it forwards into May right of the D, her touch seeing her spin of Anderson to get into the area turn in towards goal, Facerova out to close the angle, May shoots, hits the goalkeepers leg taking the sting off the shot, nevertheless running in beyond her towards goal, Anderson back beyond Facerova on the cover to lash the ball behind for a corner kick at the near post.

Newmarket striker, Amber May

Newmarket making another change, Abi Gibson coming on into midfield, replacing Peyton. The corner from the right curled in across the face of the Fulbourn goal, May throwing herself at the ball can only get a glancing header the ball going away to the left. May is hurt soon after as she is played through into the box, coming together with the onrushing keeper as Facerova slides in at the strikers feet. The ball going away to the left, May after receiving treatment is up back on her feet.

Crook advancing down the right for Fulbourn winning a corner off Kirby-Cook, taking it herself fired in high to the near post, Woodley getting up to attack it turning her header into the middle, Duhy in to grab it up off the deck as it skips up before her. An intriguing contest a little edgy with 5 minutes left to play in the first half Stubbings seeing the ball down into her feet off of a throw high on the left whips a cross low into the Newmarket box, Woodley looking t attack it, Sarpong defending well for the hosts.

Newmarket midfielder, Sophie Carter

Gibson tracking back to defend does well up against Stubbings through the middle winning the ball back top of the D, as Woodley from the left looks to play the ball into her captain’s feet. Anderson frustrated as she gives away a free-kick against May outside the D, Linger forwards to take it 25 yards out central, goes to strike it sending the ball wide of the top right corner.

Into the final minute of the first half both sides still probing looking for an opening Bridgeman right has May ahead of her on the overlap sliding the ball on down the wing, May takes it into the corner before sending a low cross into the near post, Facerova untroubled called for it claiming without incident.

Half-time Newmarket Town Women Development 0-0 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

An intriguing first half comes to an end with the sides goalless at the break, both creating good opportunities, the goalkeepers too called into action. Probing each other out to a degree. Using the wings looking to get on with the ball, trying to keep it down on the 3G pitch, undeterred by the heat playing at a good tempo. Newmarket full of youthful energy, Fulbourn with the experience will be interesting to see which can emerge on top in the 2nd half.

Fulbourn to get the 2nd half underway have made a couple of changes, bringing Amy Smith on at right back with Grewal coming off. grace Muffett on to replacing Turner in midfield. Newmarket unchanged, the visitors looking to get straight on the attack, Woodley on for Stubbings through the middle, drifting right, Kirby-Cook closing the ball down for Newmarket, gets the hosts moving the other way sending the ball long up the left for Shelford, sweeping a cross into the box, Anderson defending up against May, the ball stopped top of the area, May after it cutting a ball out the right  Gibson getting on down the wing sending a low strike on the angle into the near post, Facerova down low to save.

Kirby-Cook pushing on with the ball left flank played on for Shelford, checks inside to put a cross into the Fulbourn box, Adams cutting it out this time seeing it back to her keeper. Stubbings gathering the ball into her feet, charging on through the middle looking to get into the box, Reynolds out to put in the tackle halting Stubbings run, the advantage played as Woodley takes the ball up lifting a cross into the area left side the ball hooked away for a throw in.

Jess Adams winning the ball back for Fulbourn

Fulbourn looking to make some thrusting runs through the middle, Chandler sending the ball in behind for Stubbings bursting into the box left of goal, Duhy coming out to close the angle making the blocking save with her legs the ball spinning away to the left, Stubbings retrieving it chipping a cross back into the area, Sarpong winning the ball for Newmarket.

Referee Theresa Robichaux giving a free-kick to Fulbourn outside the box left corner of the area after spotting a handball. Crook over it fires a pacy ball into the near post, Duhy right behind it coming to make a confident claim.

Smith sending the ball on up Fulbourn’s right, Stubbings and Chandler up with Woodley in the corner as the trio look to get inside the box, Kirby-Cook seeing it behind for a corner kick. Fired in across the six yard box goes throughout everyone before being turned back into the mix beyond the far post, Reynolds hooking it clear for Newmarket.

Newmarket defender, Rebecca Reynolds

Newmarket making a change with Kirby-Cook coming off, Peyton back on coming over to the left of the pitch. Fulbourn looking in impose themselves on the game 2nd half commit players forwards. Newmarket find May up top in a central position 25 yards out, holds the ball up well allowing Thompson to break on from the middle to the right of the box, May laying the pass into her feet, Thompson goes to shoot angling the ball in across the keeper, Facerova with an excellent save diving down to push the ball away to the left.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Emily Facerova.

Newmarket bringing players up from the back as they win a corner on the left, the delivery long through the six yard box, just over Reynolds getting up central dropping to Shelford far post but can’t get a telling touch. Thompson getting the ball out into the left wing for Shelford for Newmarket, Smith lunging in to tackle her to prevent the cross. Lively as Wells gets the ball into Stubbings driving on through the middle has Chandler going with her, putting the pass into her feet clips the ball into the right wing for Woodley to attack, her cross into the area taken by Duhy.

Niamh Bridgeman

Coming up to an hour played Newmarket making another change bringing Bithell back on to replace, Shelford on the left wing. Straight into the action as Peyton slides the ball down the line into her feet, holding off her marker outside the box, spins away into the area, bearing down on goal, shoots, Facerova throwing herself down to get behind the ball to make the save.

Thompson on the ball brings it inside across the top of the Fulbourn box looking for half a yard to get a shot away, pulls her attempt wide of the left post. Sarpong closing the ball down well for the hosts bringing in into the middle before sending a through ball into Thompson as she makes the run ahead of her, Anderson winning it back for Fulbourn. Lively as Fulbourn counter Woodley played in behind running into the box, Duhy rushing out to make the blocking save.

Fulbourn’s Jess Anderson

Newmarket are immediately on the counter attack the ball fed forwards through the middle quickly as Bithell is put through on goal, bearing down on the keeper shoots from close range, Facerova stays big making the blocking save gloving the ball down loose to her left, Bithell looking to steal onto it, Facerova falling stretching out an arm to snatch the ball into her body.

GOAL! Into the 65th minute, the game stretched as both sides look to get on the attack, Stubbings looking to pull into the area left of the D, the through ball rolled into her path, Duhy comes rushing out looking to close her down, Stubbings getting there first knocking the ball against the on rushing keeper, seeing it spin away wide left, the attacker after the ball as defenders rush back to try and cover the exposed goal, Stubbings composed picks her spot firing the ball from the angle into the back of the net to put Fulbourn into the lead 0-1.

Captain, Marie Stubbings bursting into the box to beat the keeper and open the scoring for Fulbourn

Fulbourn making a couple of changes with Milner and Chandler coming off, Caragh Dangerfield and Eve Seyf coming on. Crook eyeing up a shot 20 yards out outside the D fires wide. Newmarket bringing off Thompson, send on Cerys Compton. Fulbourn press through the middle Muffett winning the ball into Woodley drives forwards Stubbings ahead of her, sends the ball through into the box for Seyf, Duhy rushing in to try and close her down Seyf prods the ball wide of the keeper, but the wrong side of the right post.

 

Grace Muffett challenging Jazmine Sarpong for the ball

 

20 minutes left on the clock remains hot out there both sides putting alot of energy into the game, Peyton stealing in to win the ball on the left for Newmarket sending it on for Bithell, Seyf tracking back to defend for Fulbourn sending the ball out of play for a throw in. Reynolds at the back for Newmarket chipping the ball into the right channel looking for Bridgeman, Facerova comes racing out of her box to get to the ball first. A double change for the hosts with May and Carter coming off for Newmarket, Holly Corley and Ruby Lakey coming on.

Amy Smith defending for Fulbourn

 GOAL! Muffett wins the ball well in the middle playing it onto Crook out on the left, slides the ball into Seyf moving in behind into the box central, spins away from the advancing keeper taking the ball away to the by-line to the left of goal, comes back inside then to fire the ball into the goal before the Newmarket defence can recover 0-2.

Eve Seyf off the bench to double Fulbourn’s lead

 

Newmarket doubling their lead in the 73rd minute, Fulbourn threatening to get on top of Newmarket pressing bodies on, Seyf picking out Woodley chasing into the right corner her cross lifted into the six yard box, taken cleanly by Duhy. Wells and Crook coming off for Newmarket, with Chandler and Turner back into the action. Muffett busy in the middle of the park playing the ball out too the right, this time Seyf chasing down the ball in the corner on the by-line her cross cut out turned behind by Reynolds.

 GOAL! The corner flung in to the box, Turner left of goal getting her head on the ball powering it goal wards, pace on the ball straight at the keeper, Duhy saves beating the ball back out into the mix, Woodley nudging it into Seyf’s path, smashes the goal past the keeper into the bottom left corner to make it 0-3.

Turner’s header saved, Eve Seyf on the follow up scoring her 2nd for Fulbourn

Woodley putting the ball into Muffett as the visitors win a throw high on the right, working the ball to the by-line Muffett sees her cross intercepted by Sarpong. Fulbourn pressing the ball well regaining possession getting on the offensive with less than 15 minutes to play having raced into a 3 goal lead.

 GOAL! Fulbourn winning the ball back on halfway Muffett into Woodley, las the ball into the right channel for Seyf, beating the offside flag races into the box bearing down on goal, is on a hat-trick, but sees a better option as instead she unselfishly puts the ball across the face of goal for Chandler to run onto unmarked at the far post to score 0-4.

Megan Chandler scoring Fulbourn’s 4th goal

A 3 goal burst in 6 minutes taking the game away from Newmarket as we move into the final 10 minutes. Fulbourn in control, Corley getting hold of the ball for Newmarket laying it long out to the right for Bridgeman, whips a cross in low to the near post, Facerova going down to collect it as Bithell looks to run in on the ball the pair coming together, Facerova getting a blow to the head, a pause in play but is back up on her feet.

Newmarket’s Holly Corley

Corley timing her tackle well as Woodley looks to find Chandler pulling to the left. Seyf lively for Fulbourn having come into the attack breaking right, Reynolds with a strong tackle going in to close her down. Fulbourn bringing players on well now, Turner moving right to send a cross into the box, dropping amongst bodies, Corley is back to hook it away for the hosts.

Bithell breaking forwards on Newmarket’s left surging on with the ball in behind to fire a cross in along the face of goal, Bridgeman running in far post, Facerova getting down to wrap her gloves around the ball. Stubbings bringing substituted for Fulbourn, Crook back on.

Caranta Peyton with Megan Chandler

Crook attacking moving in central is clipped, but an advantage is played as the ball runs into Woodley right of goal inside the box closing in on goal puts her foot through the ball sending it flying over the keeper to smash down off the crossbar to the left turned behind for a corner kick. The corner in from the left to the near post, Woodley looking to turn her header goal wards can only play it behind for a goal kick.

Ellie Woodley frustrated as she sees her shot smash down off the bar

Facerova has gone down off the ball for Newmarket, feeling the effects of her earlier knock, no chances taken the keeper coming off, Dangerfield donning the gloves with Milner sent back on. Peyton defending for Newmarket as Woodley looks to get on down the right with the ball the full back across her seeing the ball out of play getting a shove for her efforts.

Moving into stoppage time at the end of the match Newmarket making on last push to get the ball forwards, Bithell fed the ball on the left stealing in behind to charge on towards the area fires her angled shot in towards goal, Milner tracking back for Fulbourn getting there to block turn the ball behind for a corner kick. The corner fired in long across across the six yard box from the left, cleared at the far post.

Alex Milner getting the block in to deny Cerys Bithell in the closing stages

Full time Newmarket Town Women Development 0-4 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

 Fulbourn with a flurry of goals taking the game away from Newmarket with less than 20 minutes to play. The visitors with a strong 2nd half performance after a cagey opening 45 minutes where both sides created some great chances. Marie Stubbings bursting through to open the scoring in the 65th minute. Newmarket continued to look a threat going forwards then came a burst of 3 goals in 6 minutes to see the game won. Fulbourn winning their final game of the season to end on a high. Newmarket can be rightly proud of their season too and with two big league games left to play 3rd place is still very much there for the taking… on top of their League Cup success.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders for this one on both sides a lively game fought in the heat. A few performances to mention firstly for Newmarket, Amelia Thompson got hold of the ball well centrally driving the attack forwards. Amber may running into the channels looking to get into the box. Cerys Bithell lively on the left flank unlucky not to get a goal. Caranta Peyton put herself about in both midfield and defence looking to get hold of the ball. Charlotte Duhy making some impressive saves despite the final score. For Fulbourn, Grace Muffett made an impact coming into midfield 2nd half getting hold of the ball keeping Fulbourn on the front foot. Goalkeeper, Emily Facerova made a number of vital saves to keep a clean sheet. Ellie Woodley with good movement up top running into the channels came close to making it 40 goals for a 3rd successive season! Captain Marie Stubbings took the game to Newmarket especially 2nd half leading the attack getting into the box to score the opening goal. The award goes to Eve Seyf was fantastic coming off the bench to add more potency to the attack scoring 2 goals and an assist for the 3rd.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One trophy

 Just the not so small matter of a trophy presentation after the game, Fulbourn collecting their trophy for becoming Division One Champions. Cue the celebrations and champagne! Most of it sprayed over the team. Congratulations to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds on winning the league.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Champion’s

 My thanks to both teams for their help with the team details as always much appreciated, a busy week of cup finals lays ahead. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Friday 12th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

St Ives Town Ladies Development v Wisbech Town Ladies

 Back to the road for a successive night heading into Cambridgeshire for the 2nd of this weeks Cup Final, this evening at Ely City FC for this season’s Women’s Division Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development taking on Wisbech Town Ladies.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition into it’s 2nd season. Histon Ladies Reserves beating Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds to lift the trophy last season. The competition as the name suggests for the sides playing in the leagues below the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Championships, North & South. 12 sides split between the two divisions, this evenings finalists both 2nd in their respective league and both very much in the battle for top spot itself.

  St Ives Town Ladies Development reaching a cup final just two seasons after being formed. Their 1st team leading the way unbeaten still in their first season playing regional football, St Ives is rapidly becoming a rising force in the woman’s game in Cambridgeshire. Play in the Championship South currently 2nd in the table some 9 point behind leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies but have 3 games in hand and have to play Haverhill once more in their run in. Jade Carpenter St Ives top scorer with 15 goals so far this season.

Wisbech Town Ladies play in the Championship North where the title race looks certain to go all the way two with them having been neck and neck with current leaders Ketton Ladies all season both way out in front with 100% winning records Ketton beating Wisbech Town the first time they met in the league are now 6 points clear at the top. Wisbech having played a game less however and their being two huge games away to Ketton to come. A successful season in the cups too so far reaching the semi-finals of both the Invitation Cup and League Cup. going one better in the Division One Cup to reach the final. Have a potent attack with Sophie Swinden top scorer rapidly closing in a 40 goals for the season.

Road to the Final

    Both sides at home for the 1st Round of the Division One Cup, St Ives were drawn up against Championship South title rivals Haverhill Rovers Ladies, a brace from Frances Chapman along with a goal for Penelope Ford seeing them edge the win 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Wisbech taking on Championship South side Park Ladies. Rachael Simpson and Chelsea King getting a goal a piece along with a brace for Sophie Swinden seeing them comfortably through to the quarter finals 4-0.

   Onto the quarter finals both drawn away from home St Ives taking on Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies win through to the last 4 of the competition with a 3-0 win the goals coming from Jade Carpenter, Georgia Rebane and Emilee Steel. Wisbech racking up a big score away to fellow Championship North side Cardea Ladies. Captain Faye Kowalewsky scoring a hat-trick with Sophie Swinden and Chloe Stanborough both bagging a brace each Aisling Ryan also finding the back of the net in a 9-2 win.

A blustery day greeted the semi-finals of the Division One Cup both games switched to 3G, St Ives at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies a 3-1 win securing them a place in their first ever final. Was there to watch the other semi-final a very cold and windy afternoon as Wisbech took on Championship North title rivals Ketton Ladies ,getting the better of the conditions Wisbech blew their opponents away Sophie Swinden scoring a hat-trick with a brace from Chloe Stanborough and one from Amy Newell to see them book their spot in the final courtesy of a 6-0 win.

This evenings final played at Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium, nestled behind the new cinema and restaurant leisure park recently built on the outskirts of Ely just off the A10. A elevated seat stand overlooking the pitch on one side the bar situated underneath. Another well used pitch a good size numbers building before kick-off. The weather dry but cloudy with a possible shower and getting chilly as the light start to come on before kick-off.

   A special mention too for this evenings match officials the all female line-up from Norway part of a NORCORE the Norwegian Centre of Referring Excellence over in England on a 6 day training camp officiating in a number of fixtures across the county this week, Ane Kliskar refereeing, assisting on the lines, Ram Eirik Glomseth & Himmett Boyar with Kristina Lokke the fourth official.

St Ives Town Ladies Development starting XI – Sophie Majoram, Steph Ransome, Connie Liddiard, Georgie Astley (C), Leah Culpin, Molly Berryman, Sophie Crook, Penelope Ford, Fran Worrall, Jade Carpenter & Kirsty Wicks. Subs – Ellen Chapman, Cherish Sibanda, Caitlin McGeown, Ellie Hathirimani & Emilee Steel.

Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Rachael Simpson, Chelsea King, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Abbie Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Jasmine Luckett, Faye Kowalewsky, Amy Newell & Sophie Swinden. Subs – Jade-Amber Court, Elizabeth Hodgson & Naomi Lyon.

(roll no roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

St Ives to get the Division One Cup Final underway, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The ball pressed in midfield straight from the off deflected out for a throw-in. Fran Worrall for St Ives with the first meaningful attack a driving run with the ball up the left flank Wisbech defending to concede a throw high up the pitch. 

Wisbech get on the ball in the middle play out to the left Jasmine Luckett combining with striker Sophie Swinden as she comes across to make herself available, Penelope Ford coming back to support full back Steph Ransome putting in the tackle to regain possession as Swinden tries to get infield. The ball played into midfield Sophie Cook playing it forwards Jade Carpenter nodding it on in behind into the box, Wisbech goalkeeper Rachael Simpson gathering the ball.

A cagey opening neither side settling early on passes rushed a little disjointed, Powell getting forwards playing a diagonal ball into the Wisbech area, Katie Garner winning the header. On the right St Ives get forwards Ford up to Carpenter plays it inside looking for Kirsty Wicks, Leah Hall intercepting and clearing for Wisbech, Sophie Swinden after the ball good hold up play moving left as Luckett and Chloe Stanborough get forwards in support, Molly Berryman cutting out the intended pass. Stanborough staying high up the pitch has the ball played into her 25 yards out left of the D takes on the early shot the ball running along the ground heading wide of the far post claimed by St Ives goalkeeper, Sophie Marjoram. 

  Amy Newell picking up the ball in midfield 35 yards out has time on the ball line’s up a shot on target Marjoram right behind it a comfortable height to pull down out of the air. Kaylie Swinden charging down a shot from Wicks 25 yards out for St Ives the ball fired into her feet dug out before smashing it against the defender. A great chance for Wisbech to open the scoring Stanborough with a fantastic pass releasing Sophie Swinden in behind beating the offside trap to carry the ball on into the area left of goal one on one with the keeper closing Marjoram down Swinden pulls her strike wide of the near post from 8 yards out. 

  Pressure from Wisbech’s Sophie Swinden chasing the ball down into the left channel winning a corner, the ball payed in near post defended, Swinden preventing St Ives mounting a counter top of the area can’t get the ball out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down bu Leah Culpin. 

  GOAL! Closing in on the half hour and the dead lock is broken the opening goal going to Wisbech, pressing the ball in the final third Stanborough picking it up 25 yards out left of the D does really well to keep possession St Ives not getting in a meaningful tackle as she manages to force her way into the box and wrap her foot around the ball to shoot, Marjoram throwing her gloves up to push the ball away sending it across goal, Wisbech captain Faye Kowalewsky in behind following the shot in getting her head on the ball to push it into the empty net 0-1. 

Marjoram out towards the edge of her area to close down the angle as Sophie Swinden gets away on the right gets something on the shot as she goes to ground the sting taken out of the shot Culpin back with captain Georgie Astley to clear the ball. Wisbech settled now work the ball forwards well Hall with Luckett and Stanborough ahead of her. Berryman cutting the pass towards the box out. Worrall out wide left takes the ball on for St Ives looks to turn inside drive on into the area, 3 Wisbech defenders converge to win the ball. 

  Powell inside to Astley the ball lifted  forwards, Carpenter getting in behind into the box, Simpson off her line out to claim the ball before the striker can attack it. A throw left for Wisbech Luckett sending a cross in along the of the area Berryman sticking a leg out to clear, runs straight to Stanborough she sends it back into the area again Berryman with the clearance. Carpenter flagged offside as Cook bringing the ball on through the middle for St Ives looks to play her in.

  Changes for both sides, Emilee Steel on for St Ives replacing Wicks, Caitlin McGeown on for Ford. Jade-Amber Court on for Wisbech replacing Sommerville. Culpin defends for St Ives as Hall lays the pass forwards for Sophie Swinden to chase on the left. Wisbech get clear on the left Sophie Swinden lively in attack players getting forwards the ball crossed in along the top of the six yard box through to Stanborough free at the far post gets her foot around the ball to smash a shot back in strikes the top of the upright, the ball dropping back down into the area St Ives scramble it away.

  A free-kick wide right for St Ives, Culpin on it over halfway a great all dropping onto the penalty spot a fantastic run from Worrall to get on the end of it in between the Wisbech defence her header sent over the bar. Culpin winning the ball at the back for St Ives off Sophie Swinden plays it forwards up to Carpenter back to goal 25 yards out chest it down, Steel making the run for her to her left she attempts the back heel to play her in a timely foot stabbed out from the Wisbech defence halting the move. Into the last 5 minutes of the first half Wisbech creating the better opportunities quicker to the ball breaking up St Ives attacks before they can begin. 

  A free-kick won wide on the right for Wisbech the ball played in towards the near post area, Marjoram coming for it under challenge does well to glove it down then snatch it into her body on the deck. Carpenter does well holding the ball up in the right corner before lifting a cross into the area attacked far post by Worrall, Court on her shoulder doing enough to put her off allowing Simpson to gather the ball. Newell playing the ball on for King 20 yards out, Culpin sliding in to win the tackle. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Fran Worrall (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Into stoppage time a free-kick high on the left for St Ives defended by Garner inside the box for Wisbech they launch a counter attack Stanborough onto King sent onto Sophie Swinden peeling away left her diagonal ball played high into the area Kowalewsky her intended target the past too strong runs out of play.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

   Wisbech looking comfortable for their lead at half-time but at just 1-0 still all to play for. St Ives frustrated didn’t settle can happen in a final, the game scrappy especially in the early stage no one settling on the ball, Wisbech creating some great chances getting their noses in front could and probably should be leading 3-0 but not taken St Ives have the chance to regroup at half-time find away to get back into the game, haven’t found a fluidity to their attacking play to trouble the Wisbech defence yet. 

Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway a substitution made, Naomi Lyon on for Luckett. St Ives pressing the ball get it forwards Simpson with an early touch in the Wisbech goal. Hall getting forwards on the left for Wisbech the ball on for Swinden to chase in behind, Marjoram quickly off her line to the edge of her area to claim the ball. Astley winning the defensive header for St Ives at the back Stanborough looks to play in Sophie Swinden the ball left with Liddiard for St Ives her cross lifted into the area headed back out of the area by Garner. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Sophie Cook (picture credit Gary Reed)

  St Ives make a change bringing of Berryman on comes Cherish Sibanda. Wisbech starting the 2nd half where they left off the first pressing the ball high up the pitch preventing St Ives from getting forwards. Wisbech coming left, Kowalewsky drifting into a central position meets the cross with the the outside of her boot looking to lift a high looping ball in towards goal, falls wide of the mark. Marjoram across to cover her near post down to smother the ball as it is fired in from the left. Wisbech prevent St Ives breaking, turn play around and win a corner on the right. Worrall back the defend winning the ball inside the box. Cook comes off for St Ives on in her place Ellie Chapman.

 Worrall getting forwards in attack down the left keeps possession wants support, none available turns inside to beat her marker and send a cross into the area, Simpson coming out towards the ball claims it launching it forwards. Wisbech with possession 25 yards out Kowalewsky bringing it inside rolled on to Lyon central then out to Newell left laid back for Hall coming forwards shoots from 30 yards out the ball driven in Marjoram punching it down, scrambles to get her gloves around it with Kowalewsky coming in.

   Not happening for St Ives in the final third and that is bringing frustration, Carpenter seizing on an opportunity to catch Simpson out of position getting hold of the ball wide right lifts the ball over Simpson, falling short of the near post Worrall after it can’t keep it in play as she attempts to keep it alive. Wisbech for all their dominance need a 2nd goal to make the scoreline more comfortable Stanborough doing well through the middle a powerful run the ball on for Lyon tries to lay it on for Sophie Swinden inside the D, Astley intercepts before Kowalewsky is brought down 35 yards out from goal.

  GOAL! Sophie Swinden putting the ball down with intent no one else around players forwards but only one thing on her mind as she strikes the ball towards goal plenty of lift on it with pace Marjoram not the biggest of keepers, Wisbech thinking they can exploit it, not as easy as it sounds however the delivery spot on though dropping under the bar and into the back of the net for that crucial 2nd goal 0-2. 

Sophie Swindon with the strike to make to 2-0 to Wisbech (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Less than 20 minutes left on the clock, St Ives get forwards Worrall on the left carrying the ball forwards turning her marker inside out before flashing a cross into the area intercepted near post Liddiard gets hold of it inside the box for St Ives shifts the ball before shooting the attempt straight at and held by Simpson. St Ives with a corner on the right into a crowded near post area Wisbech scrambling it away. A change for St Ives Cook back on replacing Powell.

  Wisbech press high keeping St Ives on the back foot in defence as they struggle to get forwards to try and find a way back into the game, Stanborough breaking up more than one attack. Luckett comes back on in place of Newell. Lyon robbing the ball off the St Ives defence chases it down into the area closing in on the keeper gets to it first lifting a shot wide of the near post. Stanborough 20 yards out lets fly central again seeing a shot smash against the crossbar. 

Wisbech Town Ladies Chloe Stanborough with St Ives Penelope Ford (picture credit Gary Reed)

  Wisbech in possession of the ball around the St Ives box won’t let them out late on, Carpenter comes off for St Ives Berryman back on to join the attack with 5 minutes left. Luckett tackling to regain the ball to stop St Ives breaking right, Lyon comes off for Wisbech Newell returning. Berryman bringing down a long pass 30 yards out plays it to Cook out wide right she sends a cross in near post area attacked by Steel her downward header deflected wide of goal a corner awarded. Shouts for handball as the ball is played into the box a 2nd corner given this one to the top of the area Newell gets hold of it for Wisbech brings the ball away. 

  Into stoppage time Wisbech continue their high pressing game effective a free-kick won wide right Stanborough to deliver played into the near post bodies to fight through Marjoram is determined to get there does well punching the ball away to safety. Wisbech keep the ball in the final third win a late corner the ball long to the far post a touch seeing it spin away wide of the upright. The final whistle blows and Wisbech Town Ladies win this seasons Division One Cup Final.

Full time St Ives Town Ladies Development 0-2 Wisbech Town Ladies

  Wisbech deserved winners played well creating the better opportunities the woodwork struck twice a 1-0 lead at half-time could have been more. That the score for 25 minutes into the 2nd half another goal was needed just to make things more comfortable St Ives struggling to get anything going in attack never out of it just couldn’t find a way back into the game, the 2nd goal eventually coming Wisbech defending from the front keeping St Ives penned in their own half limited attacks. No doubt St Ives will be disappointed can only dust themselves down and put all their focus into their remaining league games. Wisbech in turn can use their cup success to bolster their own title battle. 

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A shortlist of three eventually whittled down to one as the 2nd half wore on. Leah Hall with a fine performance at the back for Wisbech, striker Sophie Swinden as constant threat great strike to make it 2-0 from distance, overall like she did in the semi-final the award goes to Chloe Stanborough a driving force in the heart of midfield for Wisbech getting forwards, striking the woodwork (twice) and more often than not the player in to stop St Ives getting out to attack.

Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.

Wisbech Town Ladies Division One Cup Winners

 Wisbech winning the Division One Cup lifting the trophy and getting soaked in a good deal of prosecco in the process enjoying the celebrations, of the the pub just a few hundred yards away to continue no doubt their will be a few sore heads later today.

An enjoyable night under the lights once again, Saturday off though in need of a rest after two finals in a row my thanks to everyone for their help with the team details as always much appreciated and to Gary Reed for the additional photos.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 10/03/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Cambridge City Ladies Development return to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership with victory away to Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Top of goal difference over ICA Sports Ladies, Cambridge City have 3 games in hand on their rivals. Megan Tonks getting on the scoresheet once again for Cambridge City scoring her 28th goal of the season, A goal too for Yasmin Crow along with one for Philippa Witherspoon returning to play for the 1st time this season. Cambridge City winning the game 3-1.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

 Semi-final weekend for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup a new competition introduced last season for the clubs competing in the Championship North & South. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East ventured this weekend to watch league rivals Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies go head to head in the last 4 of the competition. Ketton leading the way with a 100% record at the top of the Championship North, Wisbech Town just 3 points behind having lost their first league meeting with two to come. Meeting in the Division One Cup this Sunday the game switched to 3G due to the weather the rain almost gone replace by the blustery winds that affected so many games across the country.

  Not ideal weather for a semi-final match, Wisbech adapting to the conditions better taking an early lead Amy Newell firing home from outside the box to make it 1-0. Ketton though they had equalised when a long range free-kick from defender Beth Goodman went in over the keeper but the effort was ruled out with players running offside one close to the keeper. A narrow lead for Wisbech at half-time the weather giving us a bit of everything. The hosts doubling their advantage early in the 2nd half with top scorers Sophie Swinden running clear on the right to send the ball past the keeper.

Chloe Stanborough with the ball at her feet for Wisbech Town Ladies

  Claire Lawrenson coming close for Ketton moments later beating the keeper only for defender Kaylie Swinden to get back head her shot wide for a corner. Ketton frustrated couldn’t get anything happening in the final 3rd, the 90 minutes almost up Wisbech were finishing strong pressing for a 3rd goal it came as Chloe Stanborough caught the ball perfectly outside the box to volley the ball home under the diving keeper. 3-0 up into stoppage time Ketton’s goalkeeper Georgia Ireland hurt diving for the ball unable to continue Amy Gray taking up the gloves Wisbech pressed the attack Swinden getting a 2nd goal then going on to complete her hat-trick with Stanborough’s cross/shot finding the top corner in the dying seconds to see Wisbech run out 6-0 winners to reach the final of the Division One Cup.

  Their opponents will be St Ives Town Ladies Development after they won their semi-final clash at home to fellow Championship South side Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Also switched to 3G due to the awful weather. St Ives like Wisbech 2nd in the South table looking to chase down Haverhill Rovers Ladies for the title itself. Jade carpenter scoring a brace in the game for St Ives with Fran Worrall also celebrating a goal in a 3-1 victory.

The date for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Final announced, will be on Friday 12th April with a 7:30pm kick-off at Ely City FC. 

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday, Cardea Ladies consolidating 3rd position in the table with a home win against 4th placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies. The hosts taking a 10th minute lead through captain Laura Rudd added a 2nd in the 21st minute to take her goals tally to 17 for the season. Naomi Hall scoring a 3rd 4 minutes later to see Cardea holding a 3 goal lead at half-time. Wisbech St Mary threatened a comeback with 2 goals early in the 2nd half Eilish Brown on target to score in the 48th minute, Josie Turner making it 3-2 7 minutes later. Cardea found the back of the net for a 4th goal past the hour to restore a 2 goal cushion, Phoebe Browness getting the goal. Cardea winning the match 4-2.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Haverhill Rovers Ladies extended their lead at the top Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South to 7 points with victory at home to 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC on Sunday. The visitors enjoying a good season themselves scoring twice against the league leaders, Haverhill in their debut season since returning to women’s football building a strong squad, Joeli Kirby’s goals helping the side as they aim for title success scored two more on Sunday taking her tally for the season to 35. Kayleigh Nolan amongst the goals too scoring at the weekend has 13 now for the campaign with a goal on her debut for Haverhill for Georgina Sparkes in a 4-2 win.

At the other end of a contrasting Championship South table Park Ladies were at home to Isleham United Ladies on Sunday the sides both with just 3 points each to date along with Burwell Tigers Ladies. Laura Todd, Louisa Harwood and Emily Ingle all getting on the scoresheet for Isleham it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Park scored 5 up the other end to collect the 3 points.

Match Report – Wisbech Town Ladies v Ketton Ladies

Sunday 10th March

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Semi-final action this Sunday on Women’s Football East the football from Cambridgeshire with Wisbech Town Ladies at home to Ketton Ladies in the last 4 of the Division One Cup.

 A new competition introduced last season the trophy currently held by Histon Ladies Reserves. The sides from both the Championship North & South entering. 15 entrants this season now down to the last 4. St Ives Town Ladies Development take on Burwell Tigers Ladies in the other semi-final game.

 Today’s semi-final featuring the top two in the Championship North, Wisbech Town Ladies and Ketton Ladies leading the way both with 100% records until they met a month ago at today’s venue, Ketton winning the game 3-1. 3 points the lead for Ketton the pair have to face each other twice more in the league, the title battle could go all the way.

  Wisbech Town Ladies enjoying a successful season to date reaching 3 cup semi-finals. Lost their Invitation Cup last 4 match to ERWFL Premier Division leaders Cambridge City Ladies, this the 2nd of the 3 semi-finals with the League Cup to come next weekend. 2nd in the Championship North have had their fair share of injury problems yet have kept up their title challenge, losing the one game at home to Ketton.

 Ketton Ladies are by some distance West the furthest side covered by the Women’s Football East umbrella, a number of South Lincolnshire sides compete in the Championship North, Ketton west of Stamford, are enjoying a fantastic season themselves, a 100% league record they narrowly missed out on reaching the last 4 of the League Cup having come through the group stage unbeaten. Into the last 4 of the Division One Cup confidence high.

   Wisbech Town Ladies usually play their home games at Fenland Park, but with heavy rain forecast over night in through much of Sunday morning have the option to switch to a 3G surface within Wisbech at the Thomas Clarkson Academy. Game dropping like flies elsewhere due to the weather, we had a heatwave a fortnight ago, no such luck today. The rain mostly gone it remained overcast the rain giving way to strong blustery winds, the sun trying to make an appearance, not at all ideal for a cup semi-final and there would be a bit of everything before the final whistle blew!

Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Amy Hepting, Leah Hall, Katie Garner, Kaylie Swinden, Jasmine Luckett, Chelsea King, Abby Sommerville, Chloe Stanborough, Faye Kowalewsky (C), Sophie Swinden & Amt Newell. Subs – Beth Hodgson, Jade Court, Charlotte Rose, Rachael Simpson & Naomi Lyons.

 Ketton Ladies starting XI – Georgia Ireland (C), Amy Gray, Danielle Usher, Katie Altham, Beth Goodman, Jane Roche, Emma Ward, Sascha Smith, Liberty Cook, Claire Lawrenson & Fran Kavanagh. Subs – Ellie Cotterill, Claire Walpole & Natalie Duncan.

(roll on roll of substitutes)

    The weather’s not great at kick-off blustery and cold the sun low also as Wisbech get the first half underway attacking into the weather wearing Red shirts and socks with black shorts. My first look at Ketton this afternoon wearing sky blue shirts with vertical white stripes, navy shorts and socks. Wisbech push on through the middle, Chloe Stanborough with a driving run to get up in support of Sophie Swinden and Amy Newell in attack, closing in on the area, Katie Altham stands her ground tackling to win the ball back for Ketton.

   A throw won high on the right Wisbech captain forces Ketton into conceding a corner, played in from the right the ball across the six yard box cleared at the far post. Ketton bring the ball on through the middle, Jane Roche on to Fran Kavanagh back to goal 30 yards out plays the ball wide to Sascha Smith breaking forwards on the left she drives inside ploughing her way forwards, four Wisbech players converge to stop her run.

  The wind at their backs Ketton’s forwards balls are proving difficult to chase down both Kavanagh and Claire Lawrenson finding the rolling ball picking up speed as it is caught by the wind as they run in behind the Wisbech defence. Lawrenson getting clear on the left into the area receives the pass from Smith on the wing, gets her shot away early past the advancing Amy Hepting keeping goal for Wisbech the ball racing wide across the face of goal. 

Ketton Ladies, Emma Ward

  Emma Ward pressing the ball as Wisbech try to get away on the wing wins a throw high on the right the ball on for Lawrenson she has support on the wing from Liberty Cook the ball into her squared inside with Roche making a central run, meets the shot first time 20 yards out her strike blocked inside the box by Katie Garner. 

  GOAL! A little over 10 minutes played and Wisbech take the lead, the hosts with the ball on the left wing put into Sophie Swinden 25 yards out, holds off Beth Goodman as she turns infield sends the pass on central to Newell the striker takes it on across the top of the D looking for an opening, checks her run superbly giving herself half a yard takes on the shot catching the ball well sending it arrowing in on target just under the crossbar to score 1-0.

Amy Newell with the opening goal for Wisbech Town Ladies

  Wisbech with the early lead the weather volatile to say the least strong gusts making the playing conditions tough, the notepad it taking a battering. On the attack, Newell tackled outside the area, Kowalewsky running on to strike the loose ball 25 yards out sends her effort wide. Kowalewsky busy on the right wing pressuring Ketton on the ball forces another corner. This one causing havoc inside the six yard box over the crowd attacking near post Jasmine Luckett beyond nods it back across, goalkeeper Georgia Ireland getting something on it as it’s knocked goalwards not cleared drops back over the keeper only to be hooked off the line Ketton getting their box clear. 

  Goodman coming on to halfway plays a great diagonal ball on for Smith coming in from the left strikes the ball from 25 yards out her attempt whistling over the bar. Conditions are tough the wind strong one moment gone the next keeping possession difficult, both sides seeing passes going awry. Stanborough winning the ball in the middle for Wisbech looking to get forwards support the attackers. Kavanagh pacy with or without the ball at her feet has it this time cutting in from the left shoots from the angle, Garner blocking. 

Ketton Ladies, Beth Goodman

  Wisbech make the first change of the match Naomi Lyons coming on in attack for Newell. Kowalewsky and Sophie Swinden combine for Wisbech on the right, Altman with Amy Gray stopping the cross the ball put back down the line for Chelsea King she lifts a high ball into the area, Goodman under it heading away for Ketton. Lawrenson coming into midfield pressures the ball winning possession sends it on a deflection of a defender seeing Kavanagh run in behind clear on the left powers on into the area, Hepting coming out to close the angle saves well as the ball is fired at her at close range. 

Wisbech Town Ladies, Sophie Swinden looking to get past Beth Goodman

  Ketton make their first change Claire Walpole on for Cook. Kavanagh is upended the visitors with a free-kick inside the Wisbech half to the left in front of the centre circle. Players go forwards line up across the top of the area Goodman with the wind at her back plays the ball in plenty of high on it the ball flies in over Hepting, Ketton think they have equalised much to their consternation however it is ruled out the flag up with three players encroaching before the ball was played one close on the keeper.

Fran Kavanagh on the attack for Ketton Ladies

  Lyons cutting inside with the ball on the left for Wisbech closing in on the area looks to send the pass across for Sophie Swinden looking to get in behind far post the ball intercepted by Altham. Walpole with a quickly taken throw down the right for Lawrenson she takes it on to the byline her initial cross cut out she gets a 2nd bite lifts the ball in towards the near post Ward arriving flicks a leg up to meet the ball turning it towards goal, Hepting is right behind it. 

  Stanborough plays the ball on for Sophie Swinden running up the right channel after ball checks back as the Ketton defence close her down rolls it out to Kowalewsky on the right wing she lifts it over the top with Swinden running into the area, Ireland reading the danger advancing to catch the ball. 

  Not much time left on the clock first half Ketton press the attack left Smith inside Kavanagh and Lawrenson close the ball don force an error Leah Hall putting the ball back to her keeper Hepting catching it inside her area, an indirect free-kick awarded on the six yard line for Ketton, Goodman forwards as red shirts flood the goal line for Wisbech the free-kick is charged down a Wisbech player down treatment needed a corner conceded, play resumes the ball in towards the top of the area headed clear, the half ends just as the weather takes a turn for the worst. 

Half-time Wisbech Town Ladies 1-0 Ketton Ladies

  A slender lead for Wisbech at the break have dealt wit the conditions better but have been playing into the weather first half the ball running away from Ketton making it difficult to stick in the final 3rd. Few chances created Ketton certainly aggrieved they aren’t level. Both stay out on the field the normally I tweet a few half-time scores out about this time but as it was I was in the eye of a tornado and standing up was tricky enough the sky dark rain falling. Any attempt to put an umbrella up futile. The game far from settled as everyone returns to the pitch for the 2nd half. 

  Ketton to get the 2nd half underway the ball put out to Smith on the wing wins a throw, the ball put into her feet turn inside, garner tackling the ball cleared as far as Roche lifted back into the box Kaylie Smith heading clear for Wisbech as the flag goes up. Up the other end Ireland saves well pushing the ball behind for a corner as Sophie Swinden gets in behind on the right side shooting from inside the box. 

  Just as quickly as the mini storm assaulted the ground, it gives way for the sun breaking through the clouds. Garner intercepts Smith’s ball as she tries to send Kavanagh through on goal. 

  GOAL! An early strike in the 2nd half and it goes to Wisbech who double their advantage the ball hotly contested in the middle, Sommerville then Stanborough the ball pops clear on the right with Sophie Swinden gathering it into her feet and driving on entering the area shoots early before Ireland can set herself, Swinden letting out a roar of celebration as the ball races past the keeper on its way into the back of the net 2-0. 

Wisbech Town Ladies, Sophie Swinden

  Ketton come very close to pulling it back to 2-1 moments later the ball played on up the left for Lawrenson the striker in behind takes the ball on into the area, Hepting coming to close her down, Lawrenson beating the keeper as she goes to ground taking the ball on into the six yard box looks certain to score from the angle the ball fired in, out of no where Kaylie Swinden gets back across the near post to get her head to the ball and send it behind for the corner kick. Wisbech defend the corner are brimming with confidence.

 Ketton make a change Gray coming off on in her place Ellie Cotterill. Newell is back on for Wisbech Lyons off. Newell winning the ball on for Luckett she pushes on, Danielle Usher tackling wins the ball back for Ketton. The visitors with a throw deep on the right Goodman with it into the box Ward with the cross looking for Smith top of the area Kowalewsky back to defend for Wisbech. 

Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Faye Kowalewsky

  Hepting brave coming across to slide in claim the ball as Kavanagh gives chase into the box on the right the pair coming together the keeper needing treatment is okay to continue. Hall with a good tackle stops a Ketton attack puts the ball on for Newell up the left wing the wind returning once again the gust giving Newell too much to do. Sommerville links with Stanborough breaking forwards through the middle for Wisbech, tries to play the threaded pass on for Sophie Swinden, Cotterill cutting it out for Ketton. The visitors getting frustrated, it’s not happening in the final third as they look to reduce the deficit. 

Ketton Ladies, Jane Roche looking to get the better of Wisbech’s Chloe Stanborough

  Goodman over a free-kick wide right a good delivery across the face of goal bouncing in the six yard box, Smith can’t quite reach it at the far post. Sophie Swinden plays the ball across the top of the area right to left, with Newell getting support from Hall behind her the latter putting in a decent cross towards the far post Swinden their, the flag up against her however. Sophie Swinden comes close once again positioned central 25 yards out the ball rolled into her feet she catches it first time her looping effort smashing down off the crossbar.

  Wisbech growing stronger as the 2nd half progresses, confidence high as the game moves into the final 20 minutes. Lyon rejoining the game in place of Luckett. A throw right side to Wisbech, Stanborough picking it up driving inside 20 yards out is clipped but stays on her feet advantage played as she gets the ball on for Sophie Swinden central she clips it in towards goal, Ireland taking it high right behind it. Into the final 5 minutes of normal play.

 GOAL!  Wisbech are on the attack pressing the ball outside the Ketton box the ball popping around Sophie Swinden with Lyons the ball falling straight into the path off Stanborough just outside the box right of the D meets t on the volley catching it sweetly a perfect strike little lift low to the ground flashes towards goal Ireland diving to her left the ball creeping in inside the post 3-0.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Chloe Stanborough

  More bad news for Ketton as Ireland is hurt trying to make the save may have collided with the post a lengthy spell of treatment follows, Ireland is thankfully up on her feet but can’t continue, Gray the player stepping in to don the keepers gloves. Into stoppage time now and quite a bit to be added with substitutions and injury breaks.

  GOAL! Gray has no time to bed in as Wisbech go on to score a 4th goal good work from Kowalewsky on the right off a throw turns inside puts the ball on for Sophie Swinden cleverly peeling into space on the wing with her captain drawing defenders to her the pass weighted perfectly Swinden shoots early sending the ball across keeper into the back of the net 4-0. 

Wisbech send on Rachael Simpson to join the defence in place of Kaylie Swinden. King receiving the pass central from Kowalewsky sees her high ball into the area drop onto the roof of the net. Hall tackles Lawrenson as she tries to drive in behind her on the right. Stanborough charging forwards with the ball through the middle shes her low shot blocked inside the area the rebound taking it away to the right Kowalewsky sending the cross in long to the far post Sophie Swinden on a hat-trick at the far post volleying over from 2 yards out. 

  GOAL! The miss a distant memory moments later as Swinden goes on to claim her hat-trick Wisbech all attack late on driving forwards Stanborough on central for Lyons her driven effort from the top of the area saved by Gray off the substitutes keepers thigh the deflection putting it behind her to the left Swinden there getting her foot over the ball to smash it into the goal beyond 5-0. 

  Ketton are deflated with moment left the weather cruelly deciding to behave late on too as Wisbech press the attack.

  GOAL! Time for one more goal from the hosts players forwards Stanborough with the ball wide right drifts inside from the angle I suspect it was meant to be a cross but it looked good as she floated a high ball into the area the ball finding the top corner at the far post to wrap up an emphatic result 6-0.

   Full time Wisbech Town Ladies 6-0 Ketton Ladies

  Wisbech Town Ladies reach the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup with a big win against their league rivals Ketton Ladies the final score 6-0. The weather playing a huge factor in the game conditions awful, we had a bit of everything in those 90 minutes, hardly what you need for any game let alone a semi-final. Wisbech adapted the better however and an early goal gave them confidence only growing with another early 2nd half as Ketton saw efforts rules out and denied by last gasp defending. A huge confidence boost for Wisbech to take into the final months of the season, played well from back to front.

  My first look at Ketton and I am sure this is not the performance they wanted, even without seeing them play before know they are better and no doubt this result will hurt, the scoreline certainly harsh with 3 goals added in injury time. The league to focus on now and they remain in pole position both games against Wisbech at home, the title still very much in their control, will bounce back even though today’s defeat will hurt.

   Congratulations to Wisbech Town Ladies on reaching the Division One Cup Final where they will meet St Ives Town Ladies Development who beat Burwell Tigers Ladies 3-1. Details of the final to be announced shortly.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders all wearing red shirts this Sunday. Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Faye Kowalewsky setting the tone on the right wing both in attack and getting back to close down the ball. Sophie Swinden has always been a clinical finisher in front of goal and took her goals well this afternoon. Is just edged out to the award however by Chloe Stanborough right from the 1st whistle she was a threat driving on in midfield setting up numerous attacks aswell as disrupting those of her opponents, scoring 2 goals too is my Player of the Match.

 You ask yourself why do you do it sometimes especially on days like today, the weather was awful a bit of everything, but I know I’ll be back again next Sunday for more, been a tough old week and this is just what I needed. Good to see both sides in action my thanks to both for the team details as appreciated as always onto the next one.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 03/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd February

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Just the two fixtures surviving in the Cambridgeshire Women’s League this Sunday due to the weather both in the cup. Wisbech Town Ladies top of the Championship North away to fellow league side Cardea Ladies in the last remaining quarter final of the Division One Cup. Wisbech Town getting off to a flyer with Sophie Swinden scoring after just 3 minutes, the visitors going on add a further 3 goals through Chelsea King, captain Faye Kowalewsky  then Chloe Stanborough to see them leading 4-0 after 25 minutes. A long range strike from Nicola Anderson pulling a goal back for Cardea on 35 minutes the hosts winning a penalty in the closing minute of the first half Anderson striking home from the spot to reduce the deficit to 4-2 at the break. Wisbech Town getting the better of the 2nd half to reach their 2nd semi-final of the season Kowalewsky scoring a 2nd to make it 5-2, both Stanborough and Swinden them added their 2nd goals of the game to extend the lead to 7-2. Aisling Ryan getting on the scoresheet too before Kowalewsky scored again in the closing stages of the game to seal her hat-trick.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Faye Kowalewsky

That sees the line-up for the Division One Cup semi-finals complete both games to be played Sunday 10th March with a 2pm kick-off:-

St Ives Town Ladies Development v Burwell Tigers Ladies

Wisbech Town Ladies v Ketton Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

The other game played at the weekend was the last remaining group match in the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup, Ketton Ladies already through to the knock-out stages of the competition taking on fellow Championship North side Pinchbeck United Ladies on Sunday. A brace each for Claire Lawrenson and Fran Kavanagh securing a 4-1 win for Ketton to see them finish unbeaten in Group A. 

  The draw for the quarter-finals of the League Cup made the 4 ties to be played on Sunday 24th February :-

ICA Sports Ladies v Riverside Ladies

Cambridge City Ladies Development v Ketton Ladies

March Town United Ladies v Cambridge University Women

Haverhill Rovers Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 27/01/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 27th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

The weather might have been rubbish at the weekend but there was plenty of football in Cambridgeshire to keep you warm on Sunday with the action taking place across 5 competitions. 

There were two games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership on Sunday. ICA Sports Ladies taking advantage of Cambridge City Ladies being involved in the League Cup this weekend winning at home to retake the lead in the table. Faced a tough game with 3rd placed and potential title challengers themselves Cambridge University Women the visitors. Turned out to be a close one with the sides sharing a goal each in the first half, Cambridge University adding another 2nd half, the Peterborough based ICA Sports edging the victory finding the back of the net for two goals in the 2nd period to win the match 3-2. Goals from Lorna Hart, Jessica Farchica and Becky Shields the difference for ICA Sports, Hannah Sanderson and Amanda Wainwright scoring the goals for Cambridge University.

   It was a much needed win to for another Peterborough based side at home with Netherton United Ladies getting the win at home to local rivals Riverside Ladies on Sunday in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Goals for Lissy Crutchfield, Claire Gallagher, Poppy Sparrow and a first of the season for Jenna Nairn securing a 4-0 win for Netherton lifting them up a place in the table.

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

The League Cup played in a group stage with the top two from the 4 mini-leagues progressing to the knock-out stages of the competition. Reaching it’s climax the 8 sides progressing have been decided (we think if I’ve read things right)

  Some already known before this Sunday 3 group games played this weekend. In Group B, Premiership side March Town United Ladies finish top with 5 wins from 5 played as they came back from a goal down at home to Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies to win the game 3-1. Josie Turner putting the visitors into the lead. March pulling it level before half-time going on to score twice in the 2nd half to clinch victory. Emma Searle netting a brace with Megan Tombs making her 2nd appearance for the club celebrating her 1st goal. Also progressing to the knock out stages from Group B are Wisbech Town Ladies.

  In Group C, Cambridge City Ladies Development were already through to the knock stages as they hosted St Ives Town Ladies Development on Sunday, one of 3 sides tied on 9 points going into the game a positive result would see St Ives secure a place in the knock out stages themselves. Megan Tonks has been prolific this season for Cambridge City scored against St Ives taking her goals tally to 27 for the season. Freya Standing too in great form since joining the side into her 4th appearance hit a brace to move onto 6 scored with Yasmin Crow also getting a goal in a 4-1 win for Cambridge City. St Ives just missing out for a place in the knock out stage with Riverside Ladies clinching runners up spot.

  One game played in Group A at the weekend neither side with a chance of qualification as Championship North sides Pinchbeck United Ladies and Cardea Ladies meet in the League Cup both looking for their 1st competitive win in the group. It was Pinchbeck celebrating at the final whistle getting the positive result goals from Rebecca Navarrete and Chloe Gray enough to secure a 2-1 victory with Laura Rudd scoring for Cardea. ICA Sports the League Cup holders currently lead Group A with Ketton Ladies 3 points behind also progressing even though they have a game remaining against Pinchbeck.

  The other two sides progressing are from Group D, Haverhill Rovers Ladies topping the group with Cambridge University Women edging out Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. 

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup on Sunday the quarter final tie between Isleham United Ladies at home against Ketton Ladies. The visitors going strong with a 100% winning record in the Championship North proving the stronger as they won comfortably against their Championship South opponents Ketton booking their place in the last 4 of the competition winning 6-0 to join Burwell Tigers Ladies & ST Ives Town Ladies Development. Cardea Ladies are at home to Wisbech Town Ladies in the last remaining quarter final being held this coming Sunday.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

This Sunday Wisbech Town Ladies were in league action in the only game from the Championship North. Continued their 100% winning record to move 3 points clear of Ketton Ladies at the top of the table. Were at home (at least moved to a 3G) against Hungate Rovers Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into the lead through Kelsey McKenna, Wisbech Town came back to hold a 3-1 lead at half-time went on to comfortably win in the 2nd half 8-1 the final score. Top scorer Sophie Swinden scoring a hat-trick taking her to 21 for the season. There was a brace to for Chloe Stanborough with Chelsea King, Amy Newell & Abbe Somerville with her 1st of the season all getting a goal each.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

Haverhill Rovers Ladies were playing their first league game since the 9th December this Sunday ended January with a positive result to see them reopen a 6 point lead at the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South. Were away to bottom side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Joeli Kirby enjoying a strong campaign in front of goal for Haverhill the top scorers adding another 5 goals on Sunday with Kayleigh Nolan also getting a goal. The final score 8-1 their were 1st Haverhill goals too for Clair Andrews and Bethany-May Harding.

  Cambridge Rangers WFC are also enjoying a great season in the Championship South a 5th win from 7 played takes them level on points with 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development. At home this Sunday were playing Park Ladies goals from Erika Balskute and a goal on her first start for Daniella Lewis securing a 2-0 victory for Cambridge Rangers.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 20/01/19

Sunday 20th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

Like their 1st team, Cambridge City Ladies Development won big at home on Sunday to return to the top of the league. One of 3 games taking place in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. It was a clash between the top two with Cambridge City hosting league leaders ICA Sports Ladies. Megan Tonks this in prolific form in front of goal for Cambridge City this season, way out in front on the goal scoring charts, scored another 5 goals this Sunday against ICA Sports to take her onto 26 goals from just 10 appearances. Jade Powell was also amongst the hosts goals netting a brace with Freya Standing also getting a goal in an 8-1 win, 3 starts yielding 4 goals. Carmen Herridge with the consolation goal for ICA Sports.

Cambridge University Women climb back up into 3rd position in the league have plenty of games in hand on both leading sides with the gap 6 points to both. Were away to the side in 3rd position going into the weekend Histon Ladies Reserves, nothing separating the sides at half-time with the game goalless the visitors going on to claim the 3 points with a narrow win in the 2nd half goals from Jennifer Atherton and Amanda Wainwright enough to see the game won 2-1 with Sophie Wing scoring for Histon.

The other game from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership involving the bottom sides with Riverside Ladies hosting Fulbourn Bluebirds Institute on Sunday. Fulbourn getting the 3 points just their 2nd win of the season that lifts them up a place and well positioned to fight for a mid-table finish. Marie Stubbings scoring a brace, there were goals too for Sharron Pinner and Krissie Taylor in a 4-0 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

One match in the finish from the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup competition this Sunday, Championship North side, Wisbech St Mary Ladies hosting Championship South side St Ives Town Ladies Development. A close one this at least in the 90 minutes the sides battling out a 0-0 the tie heading into extra-time where St Ives Town were the side to at last get their noses in front, the visiting side going in to add a further 2 goals to see them through to the last 4 of the Division One Cup. Jade Carpenter, with Emilee Steel and Georgia Rebane scoring for the first time this season.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 25/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th November

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

A handful of matches played in Cambridgeshire this Sunday with the League Cup group stages continuing and the one remaining 1st Round tie from the Division One Cup competition.

   Two games took place in Group A this Sunday, Premiership leaders, ICA Sports Ladies topping thier League Cup group to with 3 wins from 3. The latest coming away from home as they travelled to play Championship North side, Pinchbeck United Ladies. Goals for Donna Nicholls, Zoe Leddy, Jessica Farchina and Megan Purnell securing a 4-1 victory. Rebecca Navarrette scoring the goal for Pinchbeck.

  Also in Group A, Championship North side, Cardea Ladies were hosting Premiership side Netherton United Ladies on Sunday. Netherton proving too strong an opponent as they ran out 8-1 winners to record their 2nd win in the Group to move 2nd. Poppy Sparrow with her first goals for Netherton’s senior team getting a hat-trick. Lissy Crutchfield also getting her 1st goal for Netherton. Clare Gallagher scoring a brace with Emily Johnson and Holly Barber also on target with a goal apiece. 

   In Group D of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup, Fulbourn Bluebirds join Haverhill Rovers Ladies and Cambridge University Women on 6 points at the top of the table with their 2nd win in the competition on Sunday. The Premiership side were at home taking on Championship South side, Burwell Tigers Ladies. Krissie Taylor scoring a hat-tick for Fulbourn, Sharon Pinner was on target for two goals with a goal each for Stacey Kemp and Marie Stubbings in a 7-0 win.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, Krissie Taylor

  In Group B, Premiership side, March Town United Ladies are 6 points clear at the top of the mini-league table with a game left to play have 4 wins from 4 now the latest coming this Sunday away in the local derby with Championship South side, Park Ladies. A close game however March leading 2-1 at half-time edging the final result 3-2 to pick up the 3 points. Emma Frost scoring twice for March along with a goal for Naomi McGarvie. Sherrie Martin plus and OG the scorers for Park.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Cup

  In the one remaining 1st Round tie in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, it was a meeting between the top two in the Championship South, St Ives Town Development at home to Haverhill Rovers Ladies, level on points in the league, their encounter in the Division One Cup a close one to call. In the end the 90 minutes couldn’t separate the sides with the pair drawing 2-2 to send the tie into extra-time, St Ives getting the all important goal in the extra period of play to see them through to the quarter finals with a 3-2 win. Emilee Steele scoring twice for St Ives with Penelope Ford also on target with a goal. Amy Evans and Julie Brown scoring for Haverhill. 

  That sees the quarter final draw for the Division One Cup settled and 7 sides will contest for a place in the last 4 of the competition, Burwell Tigers Ladies the side receiving a bye the remaining ties are as follows:- 

 Wisbech St Mary Ladies v St Ives Town Development

Isleham United Ladies v Ketton Ladies

Cardea Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

ties scheduled to be played Sunday 20th January

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 11/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th November

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

ICA Sports Ladies are the new leaders in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Peterborough based side active in November playing games have picked up the points to catch and overhaul previous leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development whilst they have had no league action for a month now. ICA Sports with 3 successive wins in that time to move up the table. Were away to Histon Ladies Reserves this Sunday. A brace for Carmen Herridge for ICA Sports takes her onto 7 goals for the season with Bente Hanert also on target with a goal her 3rd after celebrating her 1st two goals for ICA Sports last weekend. The visitors winning 3-1 to go 3 points clear at the top. Cambridge City Ladies Development with 3 games in hand however with a 100% success rate form those 4 matches.

  At the other end of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership it was a 10 goal thriller between Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to March Town United Ladies on Sunday. The points had to be shared however as the sides contested an exciting 5-5 draw. Marie Stubbings hitting a brace for Fulbourn, so too did Yasmine Upson with her 1st two goals of the season and a first goal of the season too for Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger. Louise Balfour doubling her tally for the season for March Town United as she struck the ball into the back of the net 4 times. Emma Searle netting to other goal her 1st of the season.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

 One tie from the 1st Round of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup played this Sunday saw ERWFL Division One side, St Ives Town Ladies hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side Riverside Ladies. A comfortable win for the higher league side to progress to the quarter finals with both Fran Worrall and Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring a hat-trick a piece their was a goal each to for Jade Carpenter, Emily Smith and Stephanie Ransome in a 9-0 win for St Ives.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

They’ve done it at last a first ever league win for Burwell Tigers Ladies, 3 points on the board. Just the 2 last season in their debut year in women’s football are of the mark winning their 6th game of the season, Burwell were away taking on Isleham United Ladies on Sunday in the only game in the Championship South. Charlotte Forgarty scoring twice for the visitors, their were goals to for Elisa Heinamaa, Megan Seabrook-Mead and Ellie Garrett in a 5-1 victory. Vicky Sievewright scoring for Isleham United. Had to wait a long time for that and I’m pleased to write about a win at long last for Burwell.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Three matches played in the 1st Round of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup this Sunday the competition entering it’s 2nd season a knock-out format. Histon Ladies Reserves winning the trophy last season are promoted now so ineligible to compete. It was a good weekend for the top three sides in the Championship North with all progressing in the competition, Ketton Ladies were at home to Pinchbeck United Ladies. Just the one goal scored but it was enough for the Championship North leaders as Ketton advance.

  Wisbech Town Ladies also had a home draw in the 1st Round of the Division One Cup taking on Championship South side, Park Ladies. A brace from top scorer Sophie Swinden takes her into double figures for the season. Rachael Simpson and Chelsea King also on target for Wisbech Town with a goal each to see them advance with a 4-0 win.

  A comfortable home win too on Sunday in the 1st Round of the Division One Cup for Wisbech St Mary as they met Cambridge Rangers Women who like themselves lay 3rd in the Championship South. Braces for both Eilish Brown and Carlie Knight for Wisbech St Mary Josie Turner and Demi Newman were also both on target with a goal each in a 6-0 win.

Cup Final Report – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Histon Ladies Reserves

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Thursday 3rd May

Another trip back to Ely City FC this Thursday evening for my 3rd final of the week. The Suffolk and Cambridgeshire League’s Cup Finals previously it’s the final of a new competition this time around the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup, with the top two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South meeting in the final, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds versus Histon Ladies Reserves.

A new competition introduced by the Cambridgeshire FA this season. Featuring the clubs playing the the Championship North & South. The sides drawn into a groups of 3/4 teams 2 groups representing each league each playing the other once with the overall group winner progressing into the semi-finals. 

  Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds with 3 wins from 3 topping Group A above Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves, Isleham United Ladies and Burwell Tigers. Having a great season are leading the way in the Championship South by 6 points over 2nd placed Histon Ladies Reserves who have 2 games in hand. Losing just the one league game so far this season look well placed for a return to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. 

Histon Ladies Reserves are new to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South this season… well sort of… as their squad is largely made up of the former Milton Ladies. Now part of the women’s set-up at Histon as the club establishes a strong platform for it’s girls youth sides to progress into adult football. Histon’s 1st team playing in the ERWFL. The club overall looking to become a strong rival to the Cambridge sides City and United.

  Would have expected Milton if they had still been there to be challenging for the league title this season, and so it is the case as Histon Ladies Reserves. Lay 2nd in the Championship South 6 points behind Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds with 2 games in hand. Were drawn into Group B in the Division One Cup along side St Ives Town Ladies Development and Cambridge Rangers. A 1-1 draw with St Ives Town a 5-2 win over Cambridge Rangers seeing them top the Group and progress to the semi-finals.

Semi-finals

  Histon Ladies Reserves were involved in a 9 goal thriller at home to Riverside Ladies in the semi-final of the Division One Cup. A 4-1 lead to Histon in the 1st half, Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks with a hat-trick, Riverside battled back to score 3 goals in the 2nd half Histon getting an all important 5th goal to reach the final with a 5-2 win.

I was at the 2nd semi-final to watch Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to Wisbech Town Ladies in the Division One Cup. The Championship North side taking the lead on 20 minutes through top scorer Sophie Gutteridge. Fulbourn battled back to lead 2-1 at the break with goals from Krissie Taylor and a volley from the edge of the box from top scorer Marie Stubbings. Sharon Pinner scoring in the 2nd half to put Fulbourn 3-1 up they held on to win despite Gutteridge pulling it back to 3-2 with 15 minutes left.

So it’s Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium for a 2nd night running. It hasn’t changed much in 24 hours. The weather still pleasant a little more cloud around tonight and more tractors on the road but I knew I couldn’t get away with it two nights running. 

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Issacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Nikki Cowan, Jo Woods, Emma Clark, Sharron Pinner, Amy Smith, Katie Luddy & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Holly Hayes, Vicky Neal, Stacey Kemp, & Lucy Clarkson.

Histon Ladies Reserves starting XI – Danielle Busby, Lauren Threadgold, Kat Brown, Kirsty Smith, Sarah Freestone (C), Casey Kelly, Sam Cousins, Daniella Briggs, Abi Davies, Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks & Philippa Hayden-Evans Subs – Kirsty Jenkinson, Emma Gillespie, Amanda Binge, Becca McNally & Carly Dawson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Three female officials for this evenings final with Stacey Fullicks fresh from helping Cambridge City Ladies secure runners-up spot in the ERWFL Premier Division in the middle assisted on the line by Dulcie Asher and Romana Bria. Andy Phillips the 4th official. Histon to kick off the Division One Cup Final wearing their blue away shirts with yellow trim, black shorts and socks. Fulbourn kitted out in pink shirts each with an individual message of motivation printed upon the back along with navy shorts and socks.

The Fulbourn players sporting motivational messages on their shirts, this from Marie Stubbings

 The ball played back and forth between the midfield’s Fulbourn spreading the play out to the right wing Amy Smith breaking forwards her cross gathered safely by Histon goalkeeper, Danielle Busby. 

A corner for Fulbourn right side the ball in near post defended a 2nd corner awarded. A higher ball in this time Sharron Pinner up to head the ball down into the six yard box, Philippa Hayden-Evans back defending for Histon shielding the ball before it is cleared out to the left. A good start to the match from Fulbourn pressing forwards Jo Woods winning the ball in the middle playing the ball on to Marie Stubbings moving into the left channel, Lauren Threadgold defending for Histon preventing the cross coming in.

Histon’s Casey Kelly with Fulbourn’s Jo Woods

Nikki Cowan cutting a ball out put in diagonally from the left as Histon’s Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks breaks forwards. Pinner linking up with Stubbings left side the cross played into the box the ball deflected gathered bu Busby. Histon get the ball forwards win a corner kick on the right the delivery long Seema Grewal dealing with it at the far post for Fulbourn launch a counter attack the ball played on for Smith on the right bursts forwards turning a cross in towards the box, Busby claims it at her near post. 

The ball regained in the middle of the park Fulbourn’s Emma Clark into Woods played forwards for Katie Luddy support from Stubbings, Luddy shots her effort from outside the area blocked. Histon make an early switch Sam Cousins coming off, Kirsty Jenkinson coming on. Krissie Taylor gets forwards from left back for Fulbourn, Woods making a good run inside her Taylor playing the ball in towards her a clever flick to control the ball on the run knocking it past her into the area six yards out left of the goal shoots her strike racing wide across the face of goal.

   Histon are beginning to settle, Daniella Briggs out on the left side bringing the ball forwards a wonderful ball sent into the area from deep travelling all the way to the far post Abi Davies running in clear on goal hits it first time her effort smashing against the base of the post spins back out into the six yard box a scramble for the ball Fulbourn manage to get it away. A high ball played on up the right a tricky one for Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger gets her head on the ball only it lands behind her Davies alert for Histon darts around the defender and sends the cross back towards the top of the area for Hayden-Evans, her shot his charged down, the rebound coming to Briggs to her left she shoots wide.

Histon’s Philippa Hayden-Evans & Fulbourn’s Krissie Taylor challenging for the ball

No sooner have Histon rattled the woodwork at one end then Fulbourn get up the other end in a rapid fire attack and do the same, Luddy with the run in the centre onto the ball striking it from 20 yards out the ball rising as it flies in towards goal has Busby beaten cannons off the crossbar. The woodwork is struck for a 3rd time Histon on the attack the ball on the left the cross into the area Hayden-Evans central helps it on to Davies to her right her rising shot coming at Samantha Issacson in the Fulbourn goal fast gets a touch on the ball as it crashes against the bar, Fulbourn clear and go on the attack Stubbings playing the ball on for Smith on the right, Kat Brown dealing with the threat defends for Histon. 

   Fulbourn with possession Woods with an excellent tackle on for Stubbings, Luddy in support the ball played into her the shot skied over the bar. Grewal comes forwards for Fulbourn right side, Smith receiving the pass tries to turn inside Brown tackles regains possession. Clark gets the ball back for Fulbourn, Stubbings seeing the pass into her back to goal on the edge of the box, looks to turn a shoot, Histon’s captain Sarah Freestone has her closely marked. 

 Cousins returns to the pitch for Histon Casey Kelly coming off. Hayden-Evans breaks clear after the ball as Fulbourn are caught with a high line at the back running towards the box she shoots the ball saved confidently by Issacson. Stubbings is fouled by Freestone on the byline left of the area as she tries to force her way past the defender. The free-kick taken quickly Taylor forwards free top left corner of the area delivers a ball into the far post Pinner up and twisting as she heads the ball sends it goalwards, lacking pace Busby is well placed to claim the ball. 

Histon’s Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks looking to bring the ball under control

  Issacson with another good save off Lemmon-Sparks as the attacker latches onto a poor defensive clearance. The shot in low Issacson diving to her left pushing the ball away from goal. Issacson is hurt making another save soon after the ball fired across the area from the right comes to Hayden-Evans closing in the far post can’t get her shot over the keeper as she goes to ground the ball struck against the keeper. Issacson is okay to continue. Fulbourn do make a change Vicky Neal coming on for Pinner. Neal in the action straight away with the defensive tackle to deny Davies a run into the area cutting in from the right. 

Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 0-0 Histon Ladies Reserves

  The first half ends goalless, has been lively and if the woodwork hadn’t been involved Histon would be leading 2-1 as it is honours even. Two evenly matched sides Fulbourn starting well have looked lively, Histon settling and posing a threat themselves both sides getting the ball out to their wide players. Issacson with a couple of important saves to Fulbourn. No telling as to who might come out on top 2nd half, extra-time and penalties haven’t been called for yet in any final I’ve been… yet.

A change for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half Stacey Kemp wearing the no 90 shirt on for Smith. It’s Fulbourn to kick off the 2nd period. Luddy out wide right wins Fulbourn an early corner kick the ball cut out and Histon look to counter attack through the middle Woods with the tackle to stop Histon getting beyond halfway. Woods with another strong tackle comes back to help on the right as Davies with Hayden-Evans, tries to play Kirsty Smith in as she makes a run towards the area, Woods coming with her. 

   Kemp bringing the ball on for Fulbourn central shifts it out to Luddy on the right her cross in to the area sees Taylor arriving strikes the shot 1st time, Busby with a good save parrying the ball away then is fouled as she moves in to claim it. Briggs with Lemmon-Sparks attacking left side for Histon the ball won back by Fulbourn played on through the middle, Kemp looking to get her head on it arriving in the box, Busby coming puts her fist through the ball punching it away as she goes over Kemp. 

  Fulbourn are getting crosses into the Histon area, almost all are bread and butter claims for Busby. Histon like the 1st half are a little slow to get going momentum starting to build, an attack is launched players breaking forwards left side play switched out to the right Davies 25 yards out from goal sent a shot back in wide across goal. Taylor gets forwards on the left a one two with Stubbings, Taylor goes on her cross along the top of the area Luddy with the shot charged down by Freestone. 

 Cousins takes the ball on left side on for Hayden-Evans ahead of her, Neal with the challenge denying the attacker a run at goal. Play is stretched a good tempo, both sides moving the ball quickly. Hayden-Evans finds herself clear in on goal coming into the area from the right Issacson comes to close her down the ball past her into the side netting. Briggs with a driving run at the Fulbourn defence rides two challenges before being stopped by the 3rd. Grewal with a vital interception as Briggs looks to run onto a diagonal ball from Cousins in a central position. 

GOAL! The deadlock is broken at last and it’s Histon who get their noses in front a spell of sustained possession, Fulbourn can’t get it away on the left side close to the byline the ball pinging back and forth Hayden-Evans, Lemmon-Sparks and Davies all challenging for the ball before Davies gets hold of it and turning the angle acute fires a shot in across goal to bury the ball inside the far post. Histon celebrate a flag is raised after consulting the officials let the goal stand 0-1.

Abi Davies with the ball putting Histon into the lead

Issacson well placed inside her goal to save the ball as Lemmon-Sparks moves into a shooting position 20 yards out from the right after receiving the ball from Hayden-Evans. Woods claiming the ball drives forwards lays the ball on for Stubbings right her cross in hooked clear by Freestone. Hayden-Evans and Davies both finding space in attack as Fulbourn push on looking for a quick reply. Taylor pulling up has to come off Bodger comes back on. Brown winning the ball for Histon as Stubbings looks to twist inside her into the box. 

  Woods with Luddy  work the ball up the line for Stubbings her cross in cleared for a corner on the right. A short corner from Fulbourn the cross put in from a deep position, Clark running in to attack it near post Davies back defending does well for Histon. Lucy Clarkson intercepts for Fulbourn at the back as Lemmon-Sparkes sends a cross into the box from the left Davies closing in on the right. Carly Dawson comes on for Histon for Threadgold at right back with a little under 5 minutes left. 

   Fulbourn keep coming forwards risk leaving space in behind as they search for the equaliser. Davies bringing the ball on jinks left the right before striking the ball in towards goal her low drive gathered by Issacson. Lemmon-Sparks on for Davies as Histon break, Pinner blocking, Davies’ strike away for a corner. Bodger clearing the ball for Fulbourn, Kemp on it checks back inside Histon close her down scramble the ball away. Into the closing minutes of the match. Fulbourn are getting the ball into the area from wide positions Busby claiming it once again plucks a high delivery into the near post down into her body. 

  Luddy challenged on the right, a last gasp corner for Fulbourn everyone bar Issacson goes up for it the set-piece, the delivery in is played behind goal, the final whistle blows and Histon celebrate as they become the 1st ever winners of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup. 

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 0-1 Histon Ladies Reserves

   A single goal wins the final scored by Histon Ladies Reserves, Abi Davies in the 2nd half. An entertaining contest both sides lively, Fulbourn certainly had their chances. Good movement and competing well against a physical Histon side who themselves created opportunities finding space out wide. The woodwork struck 3 times in the 1st half, Histon looked to have the more direct threat in front of goal. Issacson denying a couple of strikes. Busby at the other end comfortable with anything Fulbourn played into the box from wide. Silverware for Histon Ladies Reserves in their debut season. The two sides are still competing for the league title a double still on however Fulbourn hold the advantage there.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As the game wore on the number of potential candidates was slowly whittled down to just one. For Histon she posed a threat all game on the right getting forwards finding space, striking the woodwork twice in the st half and getting the all important winning goal in the 2nd half so the award goes to Abi Davies.

Histon Ladies Reserves, 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Winners (changed to their regular colours for the presentation)

Congratulations to Histon Ladies Reserves on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.

That’s it 3 finals in 3 nights boy was I tired by the last one hence the later publishing I needed the sleep. Still I enjoyed it starting on Tuesday with the Suffolk Women’s League Cup then 2 finals in Cambridgeshire. a brief rest before the first one of two cup final doubles starting in Norfolk on Sunday. Back to Ely again tonight however not for football however but finally to get around to seeing Avengers Infinity War.. I very nearly avoided any spoilers but I’ve waited a week afterall and before you ask I’m not writing a report on that one. Thanks to everyone again for their help last evening.