Semi-final weekend in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, two contrasting results that will see a repeat of last seasons final with Cambridge City Ladies defending the trophy they won taking on Cambridge United WFC who will just a determined to win it back. They get on like a house on fire and don’t do anything to wind each other up… well … I tried.
Cambridge United WFC faced a testing opponent in their semi-final at home on Sunday were taking on St Ives Town Ladies, leading the way in ERWFL Division One unbeaten so far in the league this season working hard to become another leading women’s football side in the county. Cambridge United playing two league above in FAWNL South East Division One. Mollie Coupar getting onto the end of a free-kick from the left to put the ball over the line from close range to open the scoring for Cambridge inside the opening 5 minutes. There were few chances after that with Cambridge pressing St Ives keeping them at bay couldn’t find a reply up the other end Coupar’s goal enough to send Cambridge through to another Invitation Cup Final.
Mollie Coupar with the goal to send Cambridge United WFC into the Invitation Cup Final (photo credit Gary Reed)
Cambridge City Ladies are unbeaten at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with just 2 league points dropped to date, the ambition the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL themselves. Defending the Invitation Cup just as important are scoring and have plenty of goalscorers in their squad. Were away in the semi-finals of the competition taking on Wisbech Town Ladies, playing 3 leagues below in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North have goals in their side too, Cambridge City however proving too strong an opponent on the day. Carla Penny top scoring in the match netting 4 goals. 3 players all scoring a brace each, Lauren Tomlinson, Sarah Mosley and Erin Davies. Laura Mills, Amy Reed and Shannon Shaw also finding the back of the net for a goal each in a 13-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
ICA Sports Ladies climb back to the top of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership after they were awarded the win over Netherton United Ladies. One game taking place in the league on Sunday saw 3rd placed Cambridge University Women at home to bottom side Riverside Ladies. Lidiya Mykhaylechko netting a brace for Cambridge University Lu Liu scoring her 1st goal for the club and another on debut in a 4-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One match too played in Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday with table toppers Ketton Ladies looking to make it 8 win from 8 and go 3 points clear at the top as they travelled to Hungate Rovers Ladies. Fran Kavanagh scoring another hat-trick for Ketton one from the penalty spot. There were braces too for Beth Goodman and Claire Lawrenson in a 7-1 victory.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South table is a league of two halves, the six sides split into 2 groups the bottom 3 all with a single win on the board each the top three all in the hunt for the title itself. Haverhill Rovers Ladies 6 points clear, 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development on 18 points with 2 games in hand, a 18 points too for 3rd placed Cambridge Rangers WFC who have a game in hand on Haverhill in a strong position should either of the top two slip up. A sixth win of the season coming at home on Sunday against Isleham United Ladies in the only game in the division on Sunday. Cambridge Rangers with a great 5-1 win to keep up the pressure on the leading pair. Laura Todd scoring Isleham United’s goal.
Cambridgeshire’s County Cup competition the Invitation Cup reaching the quarter final stage this Sunday, 8 sides vying for a place in the semi-finals, through without kicking a ball are ERWFL Division One side, St Ives Town Ladies awarded a home with after opponents ICA Sports Ladies withdrew.
That left 3 quarter final ties to be settled on the pitch. It was an all Championship tie with Championship North side, Wisbech Town Ladies hosting Championship South side, Park Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday. A 2nd successive win for Wisbech Town Ladies too as they reached the last 4 of the Invitation Cup courtesy of a 7-1 win. Both Amy Newell and Jasmine Luckett scoring two each, Luckett’s first goals for Wisbech Town, also scoring were Chloe Stanborough, Leah Hall and Sophie Swinden.
Cambridge City Ladies are the new holders of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup they began their defence of the trophy in the quarter finals drawn away from home against ERWFL Division One side, Histon Ladies. A 100% record at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies kept up their winning form winning the game 3-0 to reach the last 4 of the competition. Charlotte Gillies, Sarah Mosley and Erin Davies getting the goals.
FAWNL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC were drawn away in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup up against Newmarket Town Ladies, showing good form following promotion to ERWFL Division One this season. Newmarket holding thier higher league opponents for much of the 1st half, Cambridge United breaking from a Newmarket corner in the 44th minute, Jade Bell there to turn the ball into the back of the net as Mollie Coupar’s shot came back off the post. 1-0 the half-time lead it was Coupar herself who doubled the visitors lead her presence in the box bringing a defensive error for which she pounced on the ball and shot home. Bell put through on goal late in the match to score her 2nd of the game and send Cambridge United through to the last 4.
The draw for the semi-finals has been made and is as follows:-
Cambridge United WFC v St Ives Town Ladies
Wisbech Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup also beginning this Sunday, 2 tie scheduled in the 1st Round, Cambridge City Ladies Development going through courtesy of a home win over Riverside Ladies, that left just the one tie to be played.
March Town Ladies from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership hosting Championship North side, Wisbech St Mary Ladies. A comfortable first half for March saw them holding a 3-0 lead at half-time, doubled that scoreline 2nd half to progress with a 6-1 victory. Their goals coming from 6 different players with, Louise Barbour, Adele Munday, Emma Searle, Megan Webb, Georgia Brown and Claire Watts. Carlie Knight with the 2nd half goal for Wisbech St Mary.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
One game played this Sunday in the group stage of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup. In Group D, Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Cambridge University Women were hosting Burwell Tigers Ladies from the Championship South. Having suffered defeat away to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in their opening group match, Cambridge University got their 1st win this time around with goals from Amanda Wainwright and Lili Donlon Mansbridge plus a brace from Shona Lester securing a 4-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One league match played in Cambridgeshire at the weekend on Sunday morning in the Championship South, 3rd placed, Cambridge Rangers Women hosting 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development, a one sided contest with St Ives rampant in front of goal achieving a double figure scoreline to win the 3 points and move level on points with Haverhill Rovers Ladies at the top of the table. Frances Chapman scoring 4 goals, Megan Stow claiming a hat-trick, a goal to for Connie Hornibrook along with a brace for Jade Carpenter in a 10-0 win for St Ives.
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 action all the way in Cambridgeshire this Sunday with the League Cup group games resuming. There was also one tie in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup 1st Round with Championship South side, Park Ladies hosting Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies. The two sides enjoying a good contest with the tie going all the way to a penalty shootout. Park Ladies edging a close 1st half leading 1-0. The hosts scoring again in the 2nd half Darcie Tegerdine and Sherrie Martin with Park’s goals. Wisbech St Mary seeing the game end all square after the 90 minutes getting 2 themselves in the 2nd half, Megan Ratcliffe and Hannah Shales with the goals. No further goals in extra-time the tie settled by penalties, Park celebrating at the end going through to the quarter finals winning the shootout 4-2. An away trip to Wisbech Town Ladies awaits.
Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup
The group games in this season’s League Cup competition continuing this Sunday with 6 games taking place. In Group A, Ketton Ladies become joint leaders after the Championship North side at home beat Premiership side Netherton United Ladies. A single goal enough to secure the 3 points.
One game too in Group B, Premiership side, March Town United Ladies topping the mini-league with 3 wins from 3 now. Away to Championship North side Hungate Rovers Ladies this Sunday. March leading 1-0 at half-time went on to dominate the 2nd half to run out 5-0 winners. Louise Barbour scoring twice. Emma Frost, Ella Nutter and Adele Munday all getting a goal each.
Two games from Group C, in the early kick-off Premiership leaders, Cambridge City Ladies Development were away playing Cambridge Rangers Women from the Championship South. Megan Tonks putting Cambridge City into an early lead scoring after 5 minutes. Cambridge Rangers getting back on level terns on the half hour went on to take the lead in the 38th minute. Cambridge City responding quickly Tonks finding the back of the net for her 2nd of the game to make it 2-2 a strong end to the 1st half seeing the visitors score twice more Yasmin Crow and Rachel Littlewood with the goals putting Cambridge City 4-2 up at half-time. The visiting side adding one more goal in the 2nd half Jade Powell firing the ball home from a free-kick. Cambridge City winning 3 from 3 to top the group.
Also in Group C it was an all Premiership clash between Riverside Ladies and Histon Ladies Reserves on Sunday. The Peterborough based side claiming their 2nd win in the group to join St Ives Town Development on 6 points. Annie Posnett scoring a hat-trick. Hannah Stubbs and Jade Ramm also scoring in a 5-0 win for Riverside.
Two games also in Group D. Haverhill Rovers Ladies topping the table with 2 wins from 2. Have 20 goals from those 2 matches too, 8 in their win over Premiership side Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, scored 12 without reply away from home against Burwell Tigers Ladies this Sunday. Joeli Kirby scoring 4 goals in the game. Emma Barnes netting herself a hat-trick. The other Haverhill goals shared between, Hayley Turner, Julie Brown, Kayleigh Nolan, Amy Evans and Kayleigh Steed.
Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds picked up their 1st group win in the League Cup this Sunday at home to fellow Premiership side, Cambridge University Women. A close game Fulbourn scoring twice with Katie Luddy and Marie Stubbings both on the scoresheet. The hosts winning 2-1 with Amanda Wainwright scoring for Cambridge University.
The 1st Round of the Cambridgeshire Invitation Cup began this Sunday across the county with 5 ties being played. FAWNL South East Division One side, Cambridge United Women were drawn away to play Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds in the competition. Playing 3 leagues higher than their hosts Cambridge were leading 2-0 at half-time, Opening the scoring from the penalty spot Amy Howlett the goalscorer. Becky Shephard making it 2-0. A strong 2nd half performance from Cambridge seeing them go on to rack up a comfortable win. Steph Gale’s strike from distance making in 3-0. Defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt scoring from a corner for 4-0. Captain Kelley Blanchflower getting Cambridge’s 5th goal went on to score at hat-trick. There was a brace for Vicky Neal. Howlett converting again from the penalty spot and Chloe Smith scoring her 1st goal for Cambridge. The final score 11-0.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies went one better than Cambridge in their 1st Round Invitation Cup tie, scoring 12 goals to win comfortably away from home against Burwell Tigers Ladies on Sunday. Jessica Farchina top scoring in the game netting 4 goals for ICA Sports, 3 players all getting a brace, Carmen Herridge, Donna Nicholls ad Kylie Armstrong. Megan Purnell and Zoe Leddy also getting a goal each. The final score 12-2. Charlotte Forgarty and Elisa Heinamaa with the goals in each half for the Championship South side.
Plenty of goal elsewhere too in the Invitation Cup 1st Round, ERWFL Division One side, Histon Ladies were away to Isleham United Ladies from the Championship South. Sophie Lanham’s free-kick putting Histon into the lead in the 14th minute. Alison Wright doubling the lead just 3 minutes later would go on to complete a 1st half hat-trick, Brie Baker and Georgia Day both getting a goal each to see Histon leading 6-0 at half-time. Isleham pulling a goal back early in the 2nd period, Histon soon extending their lead, Charlotte Westhorpe making it 7-1. Becky Finch scoring her 1st goal of the season an own goal seeing Histon advance comfortably the final score 9-.
ERWFL Division One newcomers, Newmarket Town Ladies were hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side March Town United Ladies in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup on Sunday. A 2-0 lead for Newmarket at half-time went on to make the result comfortable in the 2nd half adding a further 5 goals to win the tie 7-0. Both Brooke Wickens and Cassandra Carvalheiro scoring twice in the game with Jess Linger, Sarah O’Rourke and Jodie Woodfield all getting a goal.
Championship North versus Championship South in the other 1st Round Invitation Cup match played on Sunday. Wisbech Town Ladies at home playing Cambridge Rangers WFC. The visitors taking the lead going 1-0 up early in the match. Wisbech Town coming back to level the scores with Kaylie Swinden firing the ball home. Again Cambridge Rangers came back to lead the game, Were pegged back to 2-2 with Chloe Stanborough equalising for Wisbech Town drawing at half-time Wisbech Tow the stronger side 2nd half, Sophie Swinden putting the hosts into the lead for the 1st time in the match. Leah Hall extending the advantage with both Stanborough and Sophie Swinden scoring a 2nd goal each to see Wisbech Town win the game 6-2.
Two more 1st Round ties to be played, Park Ladies are at home to Wisbech St Mary Ladies whilst, St Ives Town Ladies are hosting Riverside Ladies. The draw for the quarter finals made on Tuesday, are scheduled to be played Sun 18th November:-
St Ives Town Ladies or Riverside Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies
Wisbech Town Ladies v Park Ladies or Wisbech St Mary Ladies
Newmarket Town Ladies v Cambridge United Women
Histon Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game played in the Championship North at the weekend with the bottom pair meeting on Sunday, Pinchbeck United Ladies up against Hungate Rovers Ladies, the sides contesting a 2-2 draw to both earn their 1st point of the season.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South
One game too in the Championship South with leaders Haverhill Rovers Ladies hosting 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies Development. Haverhill Rover with a 100% winning start to the season, St Ives Town 6 points behind succeeded in closing the gap to 3 points ending Haverhill Rovers unbeaten start to the season winning the game 3-1. Hannah Seymour-Shove scoring a brace for St Ives Town with Fran Chapman also finding the back of the net. Kayleigh Nolan scoring the goal for Haverhill Rovers.
Back to Cambridgeshire for more Cup Final action this Thursday evening. To the Glassworld Stadium in Histon to watch this season’s Women’s Invitation Cup Final once again being contested between Cambridge City Ladies & Cambridge United WFC who have held an iron grip on the trophy for a number of seasons.
A league between the sides coming into tonight’s final they have never been closer in terms of position within the women’s football pyramid, Cambridge City Ladies finishing 2nd in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division just a point behind Champion’s Billericay Town Ladies. An indifferent season in the league for Cambridge United WFC in FAWPL South East Division One currently laying in 7th place in the table with 2 league games left to play.
Cambridge United WFC beating Cambridge City Ladies 5-1 in last season’s final. The two sides enjoy a bit of rivalry with a number of ex-United players now back with Cambridge City. Both rearing to get going the game having been originally scheduled to be played a month ago the awful weather that has blighted much of the 2nd half of the season putting pay to the game back then. Cambridge United into a 6th successive final have won it for the past 5 season’s once again sponsored by S-Tech Insurance who have supported girls & women’s football in Cambridgeshire for 12 years.
Road to the Final
A bye for the holders in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup. It was another wet and cold day for Cambridge City Ladies as they clinched a 5-1 win at home against Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, ICA Sports Ladies.
Into the quarter finals, Cambridge United were drawn away to Championship North side Wisbech St Mary Ladies. There higher league status shining through as they comfortably progressed to the last 4 with a 12-0 victory. A trickier tie on paper for Cambridge City Ladies in their quarter final tie at home to ERWFL Division One North side, Histon Ladies. Cambridge City though was also comfortable winners going through the the last 4 with a 7-0 result.
Home ties for both sides in the semi-finals up against the two sides who would eventually finish as Champions and runners-up in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership saw them both in action just last evening St Ives Town Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies. A 3-0 win at Mildenhall Town FC for Cambridge United as they beat Newmarket Town 3-0 to reach another final. Cambridge City reaching a 2nd successive Invitation Cup Final with a narrow 1-0 win over St Ives Town Ladies.
Histon’s Glassworld Stadium the venue once again for the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final. The pitch having seen a lot of football over the season it Histon Ladies and their Reserve side amongst those using it. A big pitch with plenty of room on the flanks to exploit one main stand over looking the pitch with covered terraces and seating all around. Much better weather this time around cooler than it has been sunny and cloudy no rain forecast.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Sarah Mosley, Lauren Tomlinson, Amy Reed, Becca Fay (C), Anna Kanz, Stacey Fullicks, Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills, Grace Stanley & Bella Simmons. Subs – Carla Penny, Emily Reed, Bronte Rapley, Lucy Hurst & Ellie Cullum.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Laura Baker, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Amber Cantwell, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Teonie Peyton & Lauren Gibson.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Strong line-ups for both sides, normally both are abbreviated to Cam in my notes that’ll confuse everybody however so from here on it it’s City and United. It’s United to get the game underway wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks with City wearing white shirts, with black shorts and white and black hooped socks. United playing the all into striker Kelley Blanchflower breaking forwards at the start her ball on for Amy Howlett on bursting down the right, she fouls her opponent trying to get inside to cross the ball.
City break forwards the ball coming on through the midfield Anna Kanz with Stacey Fullicks, the diagonal ball sending Grace Stanley in behind of the left cuts inside and fires a cross into the area Bella Simmons arriving at the near post getting in front of her marker and putting her head on the ball directs it wide of the goal. Right from the off it looks like it’s going to be a feisty contest between the pair.
Grace Stanley on the attack for Cambridge City, Emma Jenkins in defence for Cambridge United
United get the ball down into the right channel win the first corner of the game. A good delivery into the area the ball falling for Bright at the far post her strike charged down the rebound racing out to Amy Howlett positioned 25 yards out her shot back in claimed by City goalkeeper, Tee Mhunduru.
City build on the right Simmons coming across to offer support for Charlotte Gillies, receiving the ball Simmons shoots from the top right corner of the area her low effort gathered by United goalkeeper Savannah Smith covering her near post. City pressure United at the back bodies forwards win their first corner of the game over on the right the ball played into the middle of the area headed clear by United’s Laura Baker.
Both sides are using the width getting their wide players involved in the action early on United breaking forwards the all into Blanchflower shifted on for Howlett her cross squared in along the top of the area Lauren Cartwright stooping into the header directs the ball in towards goal, Mhunduru right behind the ball takes it into her arms. Lauren Tomlinson at left back for City gets across to take the ball away from Blanchflower as the United striker is played in through the middle.
Fullicks felt the full force of a Baker tackle in last season’s final and the pair come together again this time around a Baker having broken up a City attack lunges in as Fullicks picks up possession. A painful one for the City midfielder, Baker with a talking to from the referee. Fullicks after treatment is okay to continue. A free-kick for City inside the United half the ball played up into the area cleared by Kayleigh-Anne Burt.
Laura Baker about to tackle Stacey Fullicks
A purposeful attack by City Simmons running at the United defence with the ball her shot blocked by Emma Jenkins top of the area the rebound travelling on into the box Laura Mills wants it runs on, United captain Laura Bright with a great sliding tackle to take the ball away from her. A competitive game Blanchflower running into the channels to get onto the ball a cross into the area from the right long to the far side Faith Hewitt with the shot can’t keep the ball down.
Charlotte Crisp with the ball through the middle for United plays it on for Blanchflower she spins away from City captain Becca Fay breaking into the box, Amy Reed coming across to challenge and deny a shooting opportunity. Carrie Bennett tackles Gillies as the City winger comes infield with the ball on the right. City press forwards Mills seeing her shot from 20 yards out right side of the area blocked the ball looping away to Stanley on the left side her header back in met by Bright the ball doesn’t go far fired back in low for Simmons six yards out her near post strike gathered by Smith.
Cambridge City Ladies captain, Becca Fay
Entertaining the crowd are getting behind the sides, flowing football United clearing a City cross into the box one end, breaking it forwards up the other rapidly Howlett seeing her cross claimed by Mhunduru the centre of her goal. Sarah Mosley getting her head on the ball to clear for City as Howlett surges down the right again. Smith comes racing out of her area as City release Stanley through the middle charging forwards the goalkeeper slices her clearance, luckily for her Stanley momentarily looses sight of the ball players racing back, the winger picks it back up left corner of the area Smith getting back on her goes to ground the ball struck against her United able to nullify the threat.
Cambridge City Ladies, Grace Stanley
An injury to Bright bring’s a chance of respite for both sides. Bight is allowed back on after treatment. United attack the ball fired into Blanchflower 40 yards out a drop of the shoulder and she is away in behind the City defence shooting early drills a swerving shot in Mhunduru going for it misses the ball though wide of the post. A free-kick out wide right corner for United after Howlett is fouled, the delivery long Mhunduru taking it high beyond the far post releases it quickly Mills away on the right, Gillies with her the ball crossed in Jenkins slicing the clearance, Smith coming pounces on the ball.
GOAL! The stalemate is at last broken as United score the opening goal of the game. Have a free-kick out wide on the left inside the City half the ball is sent in long towards the far post Blanchflower closing in lets it run on for Howlett to her right a solid connection to smash her shot back across the goal and in 0-1.
Amy Howlett opens the scoring for Cambridge United WFC
The goal firing United up they press on looking for another Tomlinson winning the ball from Cartwright moving to the right. PENALTY! City looking for a quick response build on the right get an opportunity from the penalty spot as Gillies is brought down just inside the area by Burt lunging in try and take the ball from the winger. Simmons placing the ball on the spot runs in and strikes the ball Smith beaten the ball running low past her strikes the base of the post and cannons out to the left.
Cambridge City Ladies midfielder, Anna Kanz
A spell of City pressure late in the first half Kanz winning the ball played on for Fullicks she combines with Gillies going forwards the cross in too close to the keeper Smith claiming the ball. Gillies with more good running down the right Bennett defending the corner conceded, into the area Burt clears. City come close again to levelling the score Tomlinson getting forwards with the ball into the United half a diagonal ball launched into the area a pointblank header for Simmons six yards out an excellent catch by Smith quick reactions a couple of yards between attacker and goalkeeper Smith gets a firm hold of the ball.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-1 Cambridge United WFC
Plenty happening in an exciting and entertaining first half, pretty even between the sides, United getting their noses in front. City far from out of it creating plenty of opportunities running at the United defence. A penalty missed, Simmons looking a real threat in attack for City. Just one goal in it United know they have plenty of work ahead if they are to keep hold of the County Cup.
Laura Mills on the attack for Cambridge City
The floodlights on for the 2nd half, City get the 2nd half underway, lose the ball United putting it out to Hewitt on the left wing she crosses into the area Fay clearing for City.
GOAL! A couple of minutes gone in the 2nd half and City are back on level terms players breaking forwards Gillies on for Mills inside the area right side falling she cuts the ball back towards the six yard box Simmons on it near post sends the ball across the keeper and over the line 1-1.
Gillies gets back to support Mosley as Hewitt looks to get in behind her on the left for United. Gillies playing the ball long for Simmons to go after she is brought down 30 yards out right side of the United goal. The delivery long to the far post a glancing header from Simmons touches a United player as it runs out for a corner. The ball into the area defended by United. Hewitt with the ball left side again her early cross in toward Howlett right of the D she shoots first time the ball wide. United make a change Cartwright coming off, Amber Cantwell coming on.
Cambridge United WFC’s Laura Baker
Mosley defending as Baker looks to put the ball into Blanchflower the United striker aiming to spin in behind. City have the advantage a strong spell have United penned around their penalty area.
GOAL! Having levelled the scores City go on to take the lead in the Invitation Cup Final of the net. Breaking up a United attack Gillies brings the ball forward through the middle sliding the ball on for Simmons her touch taking her away from her marker and shooting from the top of the area her low effort runs into the back of the net just inside the post 2-1.
United make a substitution Lauren Gibson on up top for Blanchflower. City are looking strong having started the 2nd half well renewed energy as they press on wanting another. Bennett charging down a shot from the right from Gillies as she takes the ball on down the wing has a second go past the full back this time but not Smith who claims at her near post. Gillies and Simmons look to combine centrally, Jenkins coming in to win the ball for United.
Cambridge United WFC’s Emma Jenkins
City are on top Mills coming on with the ball into the right channel crosses from the byline the ball flashing across the face of goal runners coming in but no one can get a touch on the ball. A free-kick in a dangerous position for City right of the D 25 yards out Mosley on the ball curls in a shot towards goal Smith jumping up the ball smashes against the crossbar dropping down to the left a shot fired in, Smith already on the ground making the save on her goal line.
Cambridge City Ladies, Stacey Fullicks
Bright having taken a knock needs to come off for United, Teonie Peyton coming on goes into a position wide left. City’s tails are up they are dominant sense they can get more goals pulling the United back line out of shape. Gibson is pulled back as she attempts to get on through the middle a free-kick for United. Jenkins over it a good delivery in towards goal bouncing in front of Mhunduru she lays claim to the ball even as Hewitt lunging for it almost connects. A double change for City, Kanz and Stanley coming off, on come Carla Penny and Ellie Cullum. Reed winning the ball at the back for City as United look to play the ball over the top for Gibson.
Faith Hewitt on the attack for Cambridge United WFC
GOAL! City extend their lead pressing forwards the ball on the right numbers up pressing United top of the area the ball played across to the left side in front of goal, Gillies right corner inside to Cullum she helps it on to Simmons left side her dipping shot flying into the back of the net 3-1.
A Cup Final hat-trick for Cambridge City Ladies, Bella Simmons
City bring on Bronte Rapley in place of Mosley with less than 10 minutes left to play. Fullicks back to help out at the back as Peyton gets free on the left prevents the cross coming in. Gabrielle Whitehurst comes on for United replacing Hewitt. Howlett getting back gets the ball back to Smith as Penny threatens to run in on goal. Reed with another good defensive tackle as United try to bring the ball on through the centre. Peyton with the ball deep in the left cuts the ball back in towards the byline Mhunduru concerned the ball though landing on the roof of the net.
Fullicks is struggling with a knock comes off Emily Reed coming on for City. Blanchflower back on for United, Crisp off. Burt getting the ball back safely to her keeper as City press in attack through the middle. Reed wins the challenge against Blanchflower as Baker sends the ball on into her after winning it on halfway. Blanchflower’s ball lifted on strikes Fay in the back as the defender turns 20 yards from goal. City bring off Simmons in the closing minutes Lucy Hurst on. Look comfortable United rushing their passes in their bid to try and get a goal back late on. Lively late on emotions running high City closing everything down. City celebrate everyone running onto the pitch as the final whistle blows and they win this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies 3-1 Cambridge United WFC
A strong 2nd half performance from Cambridge City getting themselves back on level terms early on. Went on to become deserved winners dominating the game pressing the ball defending strongly and building quickly through the middle. Simmons could have had a hat-trick in the first half instead waited for the 2nd half 3 well taken goals too to comeback from being a goal down after the 1st half. Cambridge United’s long hold on the Invitation Cup coming to an end were outplayed 2nd half.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Picking this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is fairly straight forwards although their were plenty of other good performances from Cambridge City too, Amy Reed good in the back line. Charlotte Gillies a threat on the right supported by Laura Mills. Stacey Fullicks strong in the midfield. Scoring a hat-trick in a Cup Final though is pretty special and for that and the constant threat she posed Cambridge United all game the award goes to Bella Simmons.
Cambridge City Ladies 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Winners
Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies winning the 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.
My thanks to everyone who assisted me this evening and good to catch up with a everyone not many games left to watch now.
Here we are once again with another shortened version of this weekends Round-Up with the weather again playing havoc with the fixture lists another cold burst depositing snow across the country over the weekend saw just 11 matches survive across the East. The majority of those in Cambridgeshire too. Adds to the problem of an already congested fixture list with games piling up towards the end of the season. March has not been kind to football so far in 2018. Of those games that did get played it was thanks to the dedication and hard work of the host team in most cases to get their pitch in a playable state and an appreciative thanks to all those put so much in to do so. A total wipe-out of fixtures the the FAWPL this weeks action begins with the ERWFL.
ERWFL Division One North
One game in the ERWFL Division One North this Sunday in Cambridgeshire, Histon Ladies have seen a good proportion of their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium called off due to weather conditions but not this time around as they took on opponents, Ipswich Town Ladies Development. The hosts getting their noses in front on 10 minutes with Abi Davies scoring her 9th goal of the season. Ipswich Town getting back on level term with 10 minutes of the 1st half left the sides drawing 1-1 at the break. Histon retook the lead with 20 minutes left to play Davies getting her 2nd of the match, the 3 points made secure with Ipswich Town conceding a penalty as the game closed on the final 10 minutes captain Sophie Lanham scoring from the spot.
ERWFL Division One South
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies fresh from playing in their 1st ever Hertfordshire County Cup final last Sunday were hosting 2nd placed side Harlow Town Ladies in the only match to beat the weather in ERWFL Division One South this Sunday. The hard work by Hoddesdon to get their pitch playable paying off as they picked up a great result beating Harlow 2-1 to record their 3rd league win of the season. The goals scored by Hannah Kelly and Sian Owens.
Norfolk Women’s County Cup
Just one game surviving in Norfolk on Sunday for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup the competition down to the last 4. Sprowston Ladies leading Division One certainly the underdogs as they played hosted to Wymondham Town Ladies currently leading ERWFL Division One North. Sprowston making the decision early on Sunday to switch the match to the FDC’s Open Academy all weather pitch. Wymondham have a strong attack with plenty of goalscorers in their side, aren’t too many games where the sides top scorer, Laura Nicholls isn’t on the scoresheet and not so this Sunday as she scored in the 11th minute to put Wymondham into the lead. Nicholls involved in the next two Wymondham goals too setting up Mollie O’Callaghan to make it 2-0 in the 22nd minute, with striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 3-0 at half-time.
Two goals early in the 2nd half putting Wymondham in full control of the tie with Alice Ladbrooke and Waters with her 2nd of the game making it 5-0. The pair both getting on the scoresheet again as the game entered the final 15 minutes Ladbrooke making it 6-0 with Waters going on to claim a hat-trick. A 2nd successive County Cup Final appearance for Wymondham they will play either King’s Lynn Town Ladies or Acle United Ladies who saw their match at The Walks postponed.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
It was also County Cup semi-final weekend in Cambridgeshire both games surviving the snow that had blowed in, holders Cambridge United WFC from FAWPL South East Division One hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Newmarket Town Ladies. A three league gap between the sides, Newmarket very much the underdogs going onto the game but have tested themselves well against higher league opposition this season and as the 1st half drew to a close it looked as though the sides would go in level at the break. Cambridge getting a goal to put them 1-0 up in the 41st minute courtesy of striker, Lauren Gibson. A more comfortable lead for the hosts early into the 2nd half two quick goals seeing the lead increased to 3-0 with Kelley Blanchflower and Faith Hewitt firing the ball into the back of the net in the 47th and 49th minutes respectfully. That the final score as Cambridge United reach another Invitation Cup Final.
It will be a repeat of last season’s final pair too as Cambridge City Ladies also booked their final berth this Sunday, the side currently 2nd in ERWFL Premier Division hosting another side from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, St Ives Town Ladies. A tighter scoreline this one with just a single goal enough to settle the semi-final. Charlotte Gillies getting the winning goal for Cambridge City.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
Two games from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday. 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development close the gap to 3rd placed Newmarket Town Ladies to just a single point after they came back from 1-0 down to win 2-1 their 5th successive win in league and cup. At home on Sunday taking on 5th placed March Town United Ladies. Shannon Shaw with her 20th goal of the season putting March Town into the lead. 1-0 up at half-time Cambridge City came back to win the game and claim all 3 points. Eline Sorbye scoring both there goals in the 2-1 win her first this season.
Park Ladies are at last celebrating this season and will get tagged in a Round-Up for the 1st time in close to two season’s after they won their 1st ever match in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this weekend. Has been a tough period for the club after they raced to promotion in their 1st season. A difficult period to follow as results went against them early on their 1st season in the Premiership players then leaving the club threatened it’s very existence for a little while but the club came through these tough times again this season results have not been with them bottom of the table without a point that finally changed this Sunday.
Park were at home to the side immediately above them, Cambridge University Women who themselves are having a tough season after being amongst the forerunners in the Premiership in recent seasons. Amy Newell leads the line for Park and she was on target for 5 goals on Sunday taking her onto 14 for the season as Park clinched their 1st 3 point haul with an 8-2 victory taking them to within a point of Cambridge University Women. Chantelle Abraham, Jenna Brown also scoring their 1st goals for Park with Sian Holcroft also to target. A victory that will do wonders for morale.
Cambridge Women’s Division One Cup
Three more group matches from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup this Sunday. In Group C, Wisbech Town Ladies made it 3 wins from 3 to clinch top spot in the group and advance to the knock stage of the competition. Were at home to Orton Rangers Ladies. Josie Turner top scoring in the match getting 4 goals to her name for Wisbech Town. Top scorers Sophie Swinden also getting a hat-trick the the match with both Faye Kowalewsky and Chloe Riches getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
In Group D, Riverside Ladies had already clinched top spot winning all 3 of their matches. This Sunday Ketton Ladies were away in their final group game taking on Spalding United Ladies. A brace each for Claire Lawrenson and Emma Ward plus a goal for top scorer Fran Kavanagh seeing Ketton finish 2nd with a 5-1 win.
In Group A, Isleham United Ladies were away to Burwell Tigers this Sunday. A brace from Amy Ellis along with a goal apiece for Lily Turner and Shona Kelly securing a 4-1 win. Lauren Rouse on target for Burwell Tiger’s goal. The other group match between Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds and Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves was called off, so it remains all to play for in the group.
Essex Women’s Division One
Also a total wipe-out of the fixture list in Essex on Sunday with just one league match surviving across the two divisions. In Essex Women’s Division One 4th placed Brentwood Town Ladies Reserves close the gap up to the top 3 to just 2 points with a comfortable result at home to Rayleigh Town Ladies on Sunday. Georgia Holdaway on target for a hat-trick in the match top scoring for Brentwood, there was a brace each for Kirstie Jackson and Emma Mackie with Paida Dedza and Chloe Wilkinson both getting a goal each in a 9-2 win. Eleasha Reeves and captain Isabelle Wallings getting the goals for Rayleigh Town Ladies.
Alot of fixtures across all leagues yet to squeeze in as we approach the last weekend of March, fingers crossed for a dry April and May.
Two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup on Sunday, Cambridge United WFC beginning the defence of their trophy away to Wisbech St Mary Ladies in the quarter finals. 4 leagues between the sides it was going to be a tough test for the side from the Championship North despite their impressive form this season. Cambridge starting the game well scoring at regular intervals progressed with a double figure win. Laura Baker and Faith Hewitt both scoring a hat-trick in the tie. Captain Laura Bright and midfielder Charlotte Crisp both getting a brace with a goal each for Carolyn Sarafian and Teonie Peyton for the FAWPL South East Division One side.
In the other quarter final played on Sunday it was an all ERWFL clash with Cambridge City Ladies 2nd in the Premier Division at home to Histon Ladies sitting in mid-table in Division One North. Cambridge City starting well taking the lead after just 17 seconds!. Histon coming close to levelling the scores Cambridge City finished the 1st half strongly scoring 3 goals in the closing minutes to have a 4-0 lead. Extended the advantage early in the 2nd half adding further goals on the hour and final 2 minutes to win comfortably in the end 7-0. Bella Simmons getting a hat-trick. There were goals too for Charlotte Gillies, Carla Penny and Bronte Rapley.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership
Not every weekend you win 6 points but that is exactly what Cambridge City Ladies Development did as they played a double header at home to Park Ladies on Sunday as fixture congestion starts to bite. Ellie Cullum scoring 4 goals in the 1st game with Rachel Pearce also on target in a 5-1 win.
Onto the 2nd game and it was a case of deja vu with the scoreline as Cambridge City ran out 5-1 winners once more. Cullum getting a brace this time around. Amy Ozakpinar, Erin Fox and Rachel Littlewood were also on target with a goal each in the match the 6 point haul putting them back up to 4th in the Premiership table.
Also in the Premiership on Sunday it was a much welcomed home win for March Town United Ladies against Cambridge University Women on Sunday. Leading 2-0 at half-time, March Town United went on to win the game 4-1 to claim all 3 points their 3rd league win of the season. Shannon Shaw netting a brace with a goal each for Emma Searle and Adele Munday. Hannah Short scoring in the final 15 minutes for Cambridge University who remain 2nd bottom.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
Two matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North on Sunday leaders Ketton Ladies back in league action for the 1st time in a month opening up a 5 point lead at the top of the table once more with a win away to bottom side Orton Rangers Ladies. Fran Kavanagh getting herself a 5 goal haul in the match moving her onto 31 goals for the season. Sascha Smith also scoring a brace with Claire Lawrenson also on target for her 10th goal of the season in an 8-1 win.
Riverside Ladies entering the league late made it 3 wins from 3 as they won away to Spalding United Ladies on Sunday the 5th place side’s goalscorers Roneta Mardosaite and Samantha Woodham with Dionne Lawton scoring from the penalty spot.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup
The Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup also began this Sunday with 2 fixtures played, Championship South side St Ives Town Ladies Development at home to last season’s beaten finalists Wisbech Town Ladies. The visitors progressing with a 4-1 victory, Faye Kowalewsky scoring twice in the match their were goals too for Josie Turner and Sophie Gutteridge for Wisbech Town.
Also progressing in the Junior Invitation Cup are Championship South side Isleham United Ladies at home on Sunday to fellow league side Burwell Tigers Ladies. Both Amy Ellis and Lily Turner scoring a brace, with a goal each too for Annabelle Marsh and Olivia Caffarelli in a 6-1 win. Vicky Murrell getting the goal for Burwell Tigers.
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday a 12:30pm kick-off at the Ridgeons Stadium as 2nd placed Newmarket Town Ladies hosted Cambridge University Women. The home side couldn’t have gotten off to a better start Jordanne Sillitoe latching onto the ball to score within the 1st minute. Sillitoe was on target again just a minute later to put Newmarket Town 2-0 up. Cambridge University finding a quick reply to pull it back to 2-1 in the 6th minute a lively start to the game Sillitoe completed her hat-trick in just the 19th minute going on to score a 4th goal to see the hosts leading 4-1 at half-time.
A double hat-trick on Sunday for Newmarket Town Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe
Newmarket Town scored again early in the 2nd half to lead 5-1 Amanda Stacy with the goal. Sillitoe taking her own tally onto 5 with a strike in the 52nd minute. Chloe Slater scoring 3 minutes later to make the score 8-1 that goal being the 100th goal in all competitions this season. Abbi Griffin adding another goal not long after to make it 8-1. Cambridge University pulled it back to 8-2 before Griffin went on to complete her hat-trick. Sillitoe starting and finishing the scoring to claim a double hat-trick the final score 11-2 moves Newmarket Town to within 4 points of leaders Netherton United Ladies.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
March Town United Ladies were at home to fellow Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies in the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup this Sunday. A goal in each half from Tierney Coulson the difference between the sides as St Ives Town ran out 2-0 winners to book their place in the semi-finals of the competition.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North on Sunday with 2nd placed Wisbech St Mary Ladies at home to Pinchbeck United Ladies. A 1-0 lead to the hosts at half-time, Wisbech St Mary went on to win the game 4-0 to secure another 3 points remain unbeaten in the league as they close the gap to leaders Ketton Ladies to 2 points with 2 games in hand. Amy Magnus scoring a brace with Eilish Brown and Abi Roach-Smith also getting a goal each.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup
Two group games played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup at the weekend. Following on from the 1st team, Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves were at home against Burwell Tigers Ladies in Group A, the home sides 1st game in the competition Hollie Turner put Newmarket Town into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Joeli Kirby also getting a brace in the 1st half goalkeeper Eloise Hope saving a penalty in between her goals. 3-0 the lead at half-time Kirby completed her hat-trick on the hour. Faye Sutton pulling a goal back for Burwell Tigers with 20 minutes left. Sarah O’Rourke extending Newmarket Town’s lead to 5-1 4 minutes later, Dominika Szary also getting her name on the scoresheet before O’Rourke went on to score twice more to complete her hat-trick the final score 8-1.
In Group D, Riverside Ladies made it 2 wins from 2 in the 4 strong group with an away win against Ketton Ladies on Sunday. Samantha Woodham scoring all their goals in a 3-1 victory.
3 games in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and with the league leaders Netherton United Ladies not in action it was another opportunity for the chasing sides to try and close the gap at the top.
St Ives Town Ladies moved back above Newmarket Town Ladies into 2nd spot with a home win against March Town United Ladies on Sunday. Winning the game 3-0 thanks to goals from Hannah Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe and Tierney Coulson. Move to within 6 points of Netherton United with 3 games in hand on the leaders.
Newmarket Town Ladies closed the gap on Netherton United Ladies too on Sunday but by just the single point after they were held to a goalless draw away to ICA Sports Ladies, the Peterborough based side steadily improving picking up some useful results. Newmarket are 7 points back from Netherton United with 2 games in hand.
Also in the Premiership, Cambridge City Ladies Development were at home to Cambridge University Women on Sunday the visitors taking an early lead through Amanda Wainwright. Cambridge City had goalkeeper Jennifer Jamieson to thank for keeping the scoreline down to a single goal at the break and although Cambridge University pushed hard for more goals in the 2nd half, Cambridge City’s young players found the resolve to keep them out and counter to score an equaliser to take a point from the game, Yasmin Crow on target scoring to make it 1-1.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North
2 matches played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North this Sunday. Riverside Ladies building on last weekends opening win made it 2 from 2 with a big away result against bottom side Orton Rangers Ladies. A Peterborough derby this one Sophie Harris top scoring for Riverside netting 5 goals. Samantha Woodham and Jade Ramm both scoring a brace with Zoe Lenton, Jess Hill and Jordan Sampson also on target in a 12-0 win.
4th placed Hungate Rovers Ladies move onto 10 points as they secured their 3rd win of the season away to Spalding United Ladies on Sunday. Kelsey McKenna scoring twice in the game (one from the penalty spot) with Ewelina Jerzak also getting on the scoresheet in a 3-0 win.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup with Histon Ladies home match against Wisbech Town Ladies postponed for a 2nd Sunday and Wisbech St Mary Ladies awarded an away win against Burwell Tigers. Championship South leaders, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds were hosting Premiership bottom side Park Ladies for a place in the next round. Marie Stubbings is in blazing goal scoring form for Fulbourn and she continued to find the back of the net this Sunday getting another hat-trick to move her onto 30 goals for the season. Stacey Kemp was also on target for two goals with Marcela Mundz also getting a goal in a 6-1 win to see the home side progress.
