Category Archives: Cup Final

Cup Final Special – FC Viking & Valkyries Women v Bure Valley Women

Sunday 12th May

Norfolk Women’s League Plate

Onto the 2nd of today’s 11-a-side finals the Norfolk Women’s League Plate, this season an all Division Two contest with FC Viking & Valkyries Women taking on Bure Valley Women, both enjoying a strong campaign in the league, looks set to be great contest.

The League Plate contested by the sides knocked out of the early rounds of the League Cup. Usually featuring a top division side knocked out early on in the League Cup it is a coo for Division Two to see lower division sides contest the cup… well plate. Silverware nonetheless.

This afternoon’s prize

In between the League and Cup Finals, the Women’s 7’s final, a popular league featuring two Division across the county this years final between cup holders Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies and Left Field FC Women. A single goal settling the game, Mulbarton successfully defending the trophy to lift the cup for the 2nd successive season. Well done.

Norwich based, FC Vikings & Valkyries Women are enjoying a successful 3rd season playing women’s football. Manager Ben Binder seeing the club formed in 2021, initially struggled for results finished bottom of the league in their debut season but as I’ve seen several times before a side that can stick together during those tough early years will grow stronger and so is the case with the Valkyries, 9th the following season but ended the season with only 9 in their final match, have added to their squad since going from strength to strength into this season on the tails of the title chasers for much of the campaign in the top 5 are currently 4th in the table winning 14 out of the 22 league matches played so far picking up some good results along the way and reaching their 1st ever cup final. That success no doubt helped by having the top scorer in the league with Jessica Bennett leading Bure Valley’s MacMillan with 41 goals for the campaign scored in just 15 matches. Charlotte Kenny also into double figures with 17 goals so far.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two growing this season with the introduction of 8 new sides at the start of the season, and with the new blood an exciting title battle has been going on throughout the season and with a handful of matches left two have emerged to fight out top position, Stalham Town Ladies and one of today’s Plate finalists, Bure Valley Women. Win there two remaining league matches and Bure Valley Women will be crowned Division Two champions after reforming their women’s side this season. A strong youth section within the club their young side with their sights set on a league a cup double. Captain, Emma MacMillan the clubs top scorer, rattling in 38 goals so far this season. A strong attack too with Maisie Redgrave and Willow Nye on target for 23 and 17 goals respectfully. 

Road to the Final

  Dropping into the Plate competition FC Viking & Valkyries Women were handed a tough 1st Round draw at home to title contenders, Mundford FC Ladies but with their opponents unable to field a team for the game were handed the home win to advance. Bure Valley Women too had a tough 1st Round tie but home advantage as they took on fellow title challengers, Stalham Town Women, hat-trick from Emma MacMillan, plus a goal each for Maisie Redgrave, Willow Nye and Kathleen Tully making it look comfortable in the finish with Bure Valley Women winning 6-1

Into the the quarter finals, FC Viking & Valkyries at home taking on Division one outfit, North Walsham Town Ladies. An entertaining game, finished 3-3 after 90 minutes it was FC Viking & Valkyries that would go onto find the winning goal to take it 3-4 in extra time to progress into the last 4 of the competition. Bure Valley Women advancing to the semi-finals as they were awarded the home win against SWFC Lingwood Ladies who were to fold soon after.

A strong semi-final line-up FC Viking & Valkyries Women away to the side arguably favourites of the entire competition itself, Mulbarton Wanderers Women Development, however having shown good goal scoring form throughout the season, Jessica Bennett was on target twice with Leah Walthew also finding the back of the net to see FC Viking & Valkyries cause a shock winning 3-1 to reach their first ever final. Bure Valley Women away to fellow Division Two side Beccles Town Ladies Development in the last 4. Emma MacMillan on the scoresheet along with Willow Nye and Romily McLaggan securing the visitors a 3-1 win to reach the final in their debut season.

The pitch looking great at Aylsham FC

  Aylsham FC’s Youngs Park hosting the NWGFL Finals weekend, a busy day yesterday with the youth finals, the three senior women’s finals today. Refuelled with a cheeseburger from the barbeque, headed back to the main pitch for my 2nd final of the day, the pitch looking great. The weather remaining very warm a slight breeze and starting out in the sun despite being lathered up would burn a little, but always do before I start to tan. Better than the wet weather we been accustomed too these past few weeks.

FC Viking & Valkyries Women

FC Viking & Valkyries starting XI – Hannah Tims, Rhiannon Tims (C), Paige Hill, Maddie Smith, Imey Bird, Liv Crabtree, Megan Bird, Evie Tolson, Carla Blundell, Leah Walthew & Jess Bennett. Subs – Alesha Vincent, Ellie Jarmy, Emily Ross, Rosie Ryan & Charlotte Kenny.

Bure Valley Women

 Bure Valley Women starting XI – Danielle Barnes, Abbie Cushion, Jasmine Snelling, Madeline Frost, Romily McLaggan, Eva Heald, Lily Norman, Megan Swain, Emma Macmillan (C), Willow Nye & Maisie Redgrave.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains Rhiannon Tims & Emma Macmillan with today’s match officials

 It’s Bure Valley to take the kick-off in the first half attacking into the sun, wearing their away colours white shirts with vertical green stripes, white shorts and socks. The Valkyries as I shall refer to them from now on wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks lined up opposite. The ball played back to Megan Swain in the midfield sends it out to the right lifted forwards for Maisie Redgrave in attack the Valkyries defence seeing it out for a throw.

 Valkyries close in to press the ball, Liv Crabtree lifting the ball forwards, Jess Bennett up front looking to pull off the centre back, Jasmine Snelling holding her position for Bure Valley, intercepting the ball to clear. Played forwards into captain Emma Macmillan turns on the ball to lay it into the left channel for Willow Nye, taking it in her strike driving for the area, Maddie Smith coming across to close her down win the ball back for the Valkyries.

Valkyries Maddie Smith tackling Bure Valley’s Maisie Redgrave

  Madeline frost on the left for Bure Valley plays the ball on for Nye, getting on down the line tracking inside, Macmillan coming over to support taking on the ball, Smith in position to make the blocking tackle halt the attack. Valkyries, Evie Tolson plays the ball on for Carla Blundell advancing on the right, her cross into the box cleared at the far post out to the left. Valkyries competitive at the start of the game winning a free-kick deep on the right, played up into the top of the area, Leah Walthew looks to take the ball right get into the area, tackled by Bure Valley’s Abby Cushion.

Bure Valley’s Abbie Cushion

  Blundell presses to nick the ball on the right taking it up the line, Cushion gets back at her to put in the challenge regain possession. Valkyries getting players up well, a diagonal ball played out to Jess Bennett on the move up the left wing her cross blocked. Valkyries bringing good support with them, vocal too, the men’s team there to support the women’s team good to see. Smith across to help Imey Bird as Redgrave looks to attack with the ball on the right. Nye wrapping her foot round the ball lifting a diagonal ball from the left into the area, headed clear by Smith.

 An even start to the game. Macmillan taking the ball into her feet setting forwards into the right channel with Redgrave up with her wide, Smith across, as Imey Bird makes the blocking tackle the ball cleared up field. Macmillan looking to get forwards support Redgrave and Nye on the wings, over to the left this time plays in Nye who jinks inside heading for the box, Valkyries captain Rhiannon Tims stretching out a leg to win the ball back play it clear.

Valkyries captain, Rhiannon Tims

  The ball struck into the box from distance, caught well, high by Valkyries goalkeeper, Hannah Tims. Valkyries turning play around through the middle on for Bennett up top drives on Snelling on her shoulder the defender stays on her well to get a foot in to clear the ball. Valkyries using there strength and experience to good effect pressuring the ball in the Bure Valley half Blundell inside for Bennett central her shot from distance taking a nick off a defenders left runs safely through to goalkeeper, Danielle Barnes.

 GOAL! Valkyries attack up the left the, Walthew playing the ball in central, Bennett onto it 20 yards out, isn’t closed down, takes her opportunity putting her foot through the ball rifling it past the diving keeper into the back of the net 1-0. 

Jess Bennett fires Valkyrie into the lead

15 minutes on the clock Valkyries taking the lead having make a positive start to the game, Bure Valley with the ball left Frost on down the line for Nye stretching to keep the ball in play, sets off down the line, Macmillan racing over to offer support the pair playing a one two between them, Nye after the return ball, Smith has gotten across the defence to put her foot through the ball.

  Macmillan snatching hold of the ball central 25 yards out shoots early, dragging it wide of the left post, Tims across to gather. Tolson falling awkwardly hurting her elbow, needs treatment, referee, Paul Gibson using the pause to signal the first drinks break. Tolson sore but able to play on. Play resume, Valkyries encouraged by their start pushing on Blundell firing the ball into Bennett coming right to receive the ball a neat flick off her boot to spin in behind her marker, turn towards the box, Snelling though across on the cover in to clear the ball.

Carla Blundell on the ball for Valkyries

  Romily McLaggan passing to Macmillan in the middle turns to clip it on for Redgrave breaking on down the right wing, Smith in between jumping to intercept heads the ball up field. Valkyries working hard to close the ball down, effective Crabtree with Tolson up to Bennett, tries to roll Snelling but the young defender gets her leg in to nick the ball off her. Megan Bird taking the ball on through the middle for Valkyries, Macmillan tracking back sliding in to regain possession but can’t pick anyone out up front. Paige Hill getting hold of the ball for Valkyries. 

 Bure Valley making a change bringing off Nye, send in Emily Addison to join the attack. Valkyries with a throw high on the left players up, Bure Valley win the ball, launch a counter attack, the ball played long for Redgrave, Hill into challenge force the pacy attacker off the ball. Eva Heald winning the ball in the middle for Bure Valley getting forwards, looking to play in Redgrave on the right, Smith stretching out a leg to cut the pass out.

  Seeing the ball into her feet, Blundell central with a clever turn getting in behind her marker, runs towards the box, Snelling lunging in knocking the ball behind for a corner on the left. Players up from the back for Valkyries, the delivery looping down at the far post, Smith under drills her header wide past the post.

Bure Valley defender, Jasmine Snelling

  Plenty of energy being expanded despite the heat, Bure Valley with the ball in the middle frustrated by the Valkyries defence, Cushion up to Addison left, Macmillan heading for a gap, in behind, Addison tries to pick her out, Hill getting a foot on the ball to kill the move. Bure Valley coming on through the middle Heald into Swain out to Addison left down the line her cross cut out by Hill turned behind for a corner kick. Flashed in across the six yard box to the far post, Swain getting her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, the defender on the post there to block and clear the ball.

  Macmillan, Bure Valley’s play maker with the ball at her feet twists and turns 20 yards out squeezing a shot away right of the D, runs in low Tims right behind it to scoop up into her gloves. Crabtree sending the ball on for Bennett through the middle, drives on towards the area, Snelling on her shoulder lunging to get a foot on the ball. Blundell gives chase to her own ball as she knocks forwards on the right, Cushion going with her the pair tangling, going down Bure valley aggrieved to have given away the free-kick. Bennett over it encouraged to have a go on goal, clips the ball in towards the far corner her attempt over.

Megan Swain

   Swain forwards into Macmillan on the right with Redgrave the pair combine, Redgrave sending the return pass inside for her captain, Macmillan’s shot 20 yards out charged down the sting took out of it as the ball runs in behind safe in the keepers gloves. Megan Bird sending the ball out to the left for Walthew, takes the ball inside, Norman tackling to win the ball back for Bure Valley, forwards into Swain, Macmillan making a move across the D left to right, Swain can’t pick her out as Smith steps out to intercept the ball.

Maddie Smith

  Addison tracking infield with the ball across the top of the D, tries to get a shot away, lacks the power to trouble Tims back on her goal line. Bennett peeling left as the ball is plays into her from the middle 30 yards out turns inside to shot on the angle, Barnes has it covered at her near post. Macmillan on for Addison up top, Smith in to defend for Valkyries, Macmillan grabbing hold of the loose ball looks to drive at the defence herself, no way through however slide it out to Redgrave wide on the right, cuts her cross back up to Macmillan outside the box, leaning back into her shot strikes the ball over the bar. 

Bure Valley captain, Emma Macmillan

  Bennett with a heavy tackle on Heald giving away the free-kick. Played up towards the top of the Valkyrie area the ball headed clear Valkyries come right, on for Blundell to attack up the right wing strong running Cushion doing well on her shoulder, holding her off putting the the challenge the ball coming off the attacker, behind for the goal kick. The first half almost down Bennett off a throw on the right turns on the angle 30 yards out places her shot straight at the keeper.

Half-time FC Viking & Valkyries Women 1-0 Bure Valley Women

  Half-time, a good first half performance from Valkyries sees them leading the Plate final as they retreat to the shade offered by the small stand beside their dugout for their half-time team talk. Have worked hard to compete for the ball, matching Bure Valley in the first 45 minutes. Encouraged by their fans have get about the pitch after the ball, and not sat back inviting pressure. Have put a lot of energy into the half though and with the heat will be intriguing to see if they can keep it up. Bure Valley doing okay competing well winning the ball getting forwards just coming up against a stubborn defence that isn’t leaving any gaps in behind. A single goal in it all to play for 2nd half.

  Bure Valley making changes at the start of the 2nd half bringing on Maisie Gibbs and Anya Sadler at the back along with Nye back on to the left. Redgrave now through the middle, Cushion, Norman and McLaggan off. No changes as yet for Valkyries get the 2nd half underway, Bure valley immediately in to try and close the ball down competing in the middle the ball out for a throw on the right. 

  Snelling with a good tackle on Bennett as the Valkyries forward gets on the move heading for the box with the ball. Valkyries winning a free-kick in the middle, put long up into the box Bennett pulling in behind after it, but travels safely through to goalkeeper, Barnes. Smith coming across with Redgrave as she goes after the ball right side, cleared high for a throw. Dropped into Addison 20 yards out chests it down into the path of Swain who smashes her strike wide of the near post. 

  Smith is moving across her defence well, reading the game in front of her, seeing where Bure Valley are trying to play the ball and cutting it out. Bure valley pushing up Swain getting forwards better moving right feeds the pass inside for Redgrave up top turns her shot blocked, player up Bure Valley press forcing a corner on the right. Tims in goal coming for the ball half cleared Swain playing it back to Addison on the right sends the ball back into the box, caught by Tims at her near post.

  Bure Valley looking to win the ball inside the Valkyries half committing players forwards, risking the counter, Crabtree challenging for Valkyries brings the ball away lifting it on for Blundell right channel has Bennett pulling into space ahead of her seeing the ball into her feet shoots wide across goal from 25 yards out. 

 

  Smith up well to head the ball clear, lands at Tolson’s feet lifts it on for Walthew sprinting away down the left wing, the ball over the top, the offside flag is raised against her halting the run. Valkyries battling, determined, Bure Valley struggling to find a way to unlock them. Gibbs winning the ball high for Bure Valley playing a diagonal ball into the right channel, Redgrave racing after it, Megan Bird their first however to clear for Valkyries. 

 

  Snelling does well at the back isolated against Bennett as Crabtree lifts the ball p to the attacker, strong to challenge take the ball off her feet. Macmillan succeeds in playing the ball over the Valkyrie defence on the left with Nye racing into the space beyond after it, Tims though is alert, quick to get out of her area and kick the ball clear. Is an open contest, Valkyries with their 1 goal lead fighting to hold the advantage, Bure Valley asking the questions probing.

Evie Tolson

 Valkyrie playing the ball clear out to Walthew running away on the left wing taking the ball into her path tracks into the box looking to shoot across the keeper, the block comes in deflected behind off Walthew for the goal kick. Hill cutting the ball out as Nye looks to get on the end of Heald’s pass into the left channel the throw conceded crossed into the D, almost picks out Addison, the ball sliced behind for a corner kick. The ball dropping into the crowded six yard box, Valkyries scrambling it clear, drinks break called, they take on some much needed fluids, full of nervous energy are pumped up knowing the win is there for the taking.

  Make a change before play resumes, Walthew coming off, Rosie Ryan coming on goes to the right with Blundell coming left. Bure Valley ready to go again, Addison and Nye switching flanks. 

  GOAL! The ball played up the left for Bure Valley into Addison 25 yards out put inside to Nye central top of the D, Valkyries don’t move to close her down and she takes her chance striking the ball in towards the left post, Tims diving can’t reach it and bure Valley equalise with 17 minutes left to play! 1-1.

Willow Nye scores the equaliser for Bure Valley

  Bure Valley back on level terms push on Sadler into the middle Heald playing the pass into Macmillan pulling into the left channel, Rhiannon Tims tackling for Valkyries. Bure Valley tails up now as they press high, Smith clearing for Valkyries. Norman returning to the game for Bure Valley, Frost coming off. Megan Bird sends the ball up to Bennett out to the right 25 yards out powers her shot into the side netting. Another change for Bure Valley, Gibbs off, Cushion back on at the back. 

  Bennett battling to get into the box, fouling Cushion. The game tense, Hill hooking the ball clear as Macmillan turns play around in the middle. Bure Valley have swain on the ball left side Addison ahead of her no way through, but play brought back for a foul with no advantage. Bure Valley making another change before it’s taken McLaggan back onto the field for Nye. Sadler over the free-kick shoots over.

Romily McLaggan

  Mistakes being made by both sides as the clock runs down, Crabtree looking the ball, Smith comes steaming in to clear. Blundell attacking down the left getting into the box, Snelling on her challenging the ball off the attacker for a gaol-kick. Bennett shoots, as Barnes presents the ball straight to her 20 yards out narrowly over the crossbar. McLaggan getting hold of the ball on the right for Bure Valley turning a cross into the top of the area, cleared by Hill for Valkyries. 

 The clock ticking down extra-time looming, Barnes out to the to of her box to lay claim to the ball as Ryan on the right attempts to put Bennett in behind. A free-kick to Bure Valley in the right corner as McLaggan is fouled, cleared out of the area to the left Bennett, coming inside, McLaggan getting back to close her down running her off the ball, the pair come together, the ball back with Sadler put back to her keeper. It all kicks off following the ball so didn’t see all of it Bennett squaring up to McLaggan, the referee on top of it settling things down and having a word with both individually, both shown the yellow card. Tense out there no time left we head to extra-time.

Full time FC Viking & Valkyries Women 1-1 Bure Valley Women

  Bure Valley fighting back to get back on level terms taking their chance on the one occasion Valkyries stood off the ball, Nye taking the opportunity. Valkyries having worked so had to keep it at 1 nil need to find more resolve as the managers give out their instructions.

Ben Binder giving words of encouragement as his team prepare for extra-time

Likewise Martin Redhead for Bure Valley

Extra-time

  Bure Valley to kick-off the first half of extra time the sides swapping ends Bure Valley with the setting sun at their backs. The ball played out to Cushion on the left forwards for Addison, Rhiannon Tims defending. Nye back on for Redgrave at the start of extra-time. 

Bennett has her shot blocked by Snelling 20 yards out, Sadler comes away with the ball on the right up to Addison, turns inside but can’t make any in roads. Both sides putting their all into the game, McLaggan on the right with Macmillan sides the ball across the top of the area looking for Addison, Tims in goal sharp to react racing out to clear for a throw. Valkyries making a double switch, Walthew coming back on along with Charlotte Kenny, Ryan and Tolson coming off. 

 Lively game opening up neither side settling for penalties. Crabtree caught in the stomach from a high foot as Swain goes to clear the ball on the corner of her area. No malice the free-kick awarded Swain making sure Crabtree’s okay. The set-piece on the corner of the area, fired in towards the far post no runner coming on goes wide out of play. Bure Valley pushing up on the right, McLaggan 20 out seeing the ball don off her chest into Macmillan’s feet, slides the ball into the box for Nye breaking free, Tims can grab it up into her gloves first. 

 GOAL! The game stretched Bure Valley committing players forwards Valkyries counter the ball up to Kenny through the middle with Bennett plays the ball into her as she continues her run, Bennett feeding the ball in behind the defence into Kenny’s path free to attack as she bursts into the box, the substitute with a clinical finish blasting the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to restore Valkyries lead in extra-time 2-1.

Substitute Charlotte Kenny fires Valkyries back into the lead

  A huge blow for Bure Valley get straight down the other end McLaggan right playing a one tow inside to Nye sending the return pass over from 20 yards out.

  GOAL! Valkyries hit Bure Valley on the counter the ball launched up to Bennett up top the striker in a race with Snelling into the box looking to get onto the end of the ball, Barnes comes rushing out to close her down, Bennett nicking the ball past her as she dives in colliding with Bennett, the referee pointing to the spot! Penalty! Both players down in need of treatment a long delay before the penalty can be taken. Bennett back on her feet, Barnes coming off the worst slowly up back to her goal line as Smith places the ball on the spot. Their no fancy stuff, the ball is blasted down the middle, Barnes not getting near it as Valkyries extend their lead 3-1!

Maddie Smith extends Valkyries lead from the spot

Half-time extra-time FC Viking & Valkyries Women 3-1 Bure Valley Women

  Bure Valley with a mountain to climb now falling 2 goals behind in extra-time send Redgrave back on adding to the attack as Valkyries get the final 15 minutes underway, played back to Smith in defence, lifts it forwards into Crabtree who sends Walthew away on the left, Sadler in to close her down win the ball back for Bure Valley. 

 Bure Valley have to take risks have an extra attacker up top now . Valkyries with a corner on the left put high into the box, Kenny knocking it down, Blundell with the snap shot a defender in the way the ball deflected behind for a 2nd corner. Played in long Smith stretching for it stabs her effort wide. 

Charlotte Kenny

 Redgrave fighting to get onto the ball through the middle as Smith looks to hold her off with Tims coming, not risking it clears behind for a corner kick. Cleared Valkyries get the ball up to the right Kenny on the move playing the ball inside to Bennett, 20 yards out Sadler in to close her down winning the ball. 

Macmillan launches the ball forwards for Redgrave to chase right of goal, Tims rushing out to the top of her area to get hold of it. Time running down Blundell moves to run the ball into the corner. Valkyries keeping the ball at the right end of the pitch. Cleared up to Addison left, Rhiannon Tims holding her up eventually squeezes a ball into the area but Redgrave can’t reach it before the keeper clears for a throw. Swain bringing the ball down off the throw putting into Macmillan central, goes with the outside of her boot the shot into the keeper. 

 Into the dying moment Valkyries left Walthew winning a corner, taken short held up in the corner before the cross is eventually played behind, no time left for Bure Valley to get it forwards the whistle blows and it’s the underdogs that win the 2nd final of the day. Valkyries celebrating with their fans 

Full time extra-time FC Viking & Valkyries Women 3-1 Bure Valley Women

 A fantastic win for FC Viking & Valkyries Women formed just 3 season’s ago, struggling in the early days now about to lift their first piece of silverware. A fighting display made a good start encouraged defended well and Bennett took her chance to fire them into the lead. Held on for so long Bure Valley struggling to find a way through but got their chance and took it, Nye equalising to send the game into extra-time. Charlotte Kenny coming off the bench with a clinical finish to restore their lead in the first half of extra-time, Bennett winning a penalty to see Smith finish the game off from the spot. Shows the cup run was no fluke and the whole squad played it’s part in getting them here. Heart break for Bure Valley in the finish but gave it there all. Still have the league title to play for and to be in this position in their debut season is fantastic.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East -Player of the Match. Several good performances out there this afternoon but there’s one clear winner in my opinion. First all all for Bure Valley, Jasmine Snelling was brilliant at the back getting in to win the ball and read the game well. Megan Swain won the ball in the middle played several useful balls forwards. Emma Macmillan get about the final 3rd doing all she could to unlock the Valkyries defence. A solid team performance from Valkyries had to dig deep at times and defended with a determination throughout. Jess Bennett a handful up front easy to see why she’s the league top scorer took her goal well. Carla Blundell caused problems on the right getting in behind and holding onto the ball. Charlotte Kenny coming off the bench taking her goal superbly. Credit to the entire defence, however as the game wore on I felt the only way Bure Valley were going to get a goal was if they could find a way past Maddie Smith but she didn’t let it happen read the game well getting across to support her full backs and intercepted the ball on numerous occasions, the penalty the icing on the cake.

FC Viking & Valkyries Women 2023/24 Norfolk Women’s League Plate winners

 Congratulations to FC Viking & Valkyries Women on winning this season’s Norfolk Women’s League Plate.

 Another enjoyable if busy NWGFL finals day comes to an end two reports to write up and someone shoved the County Cup Final on Monday night too, goodbye sleep! Two great games my thanks to all the clubs for their help today. The volunteers at Aylsham FC and the NWGFL committee members for their help today. 

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Bungay Town Ladies v UEA FC Women

Sunday 12th May

Norfolk Women’s League Cup Final

The football action coming from Norfolk this weekend, a busy schedule too with 3 finals in the space of 2 days starting this Sunday with a double bill from Norfolk Women and Girls League (NWGFL) starting with a 10:30am kick-off with Bungay Town Ladies taking on UEA FC Women for this season’s League Cup.

A busy weekend for all involved in the NWGFL finals with all the youth finals being played on Saturday at Aylsham FC and the venue hosting 4 women’s games today, as well as the League Cup & Plate finals, the Ladies 7 ‘s League Cup also taking place between Mulbarton Wanderers Women and Left Field FC Women plus a league match too from Division One with Aylsham FC Women taking on Costessey Sports Ladies in their final match of the season.

The Norfolk Women’s League Cup

Before all of that though the League Cup final. Bungay Town Ladies making it to another end of season cup final following their appearance in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup final last time out. That following a period of rebuilding the team at the start of the season that growth has continued into this season experienced players added to the squad that has propelled Bungay to the top of Division One with 3 games to play, looks to be between them and Sprowston FC Women for the title following the 12 point deduction to Caister FC Ladies for unwittingly fielding a banned player for 4 matches. 

  A busy end to the season Bungay playing catch up with their league fixtures powering their way to the top of the table with a 10-0 home with against Thorpe St Andrew Women on Wednesday evening to make it 6 straight league wins, unbeaten in 8 in total. There only league defeat to date against today’s cup final opponents UEA FC Women. Have plenty of goal scorers throughout the side with 18 different players on target throughout the campaign, Mia Rose top scorer with 13 goals, followed by Lauren Goulder who has since moved to Caister on 12. Zoe Cossey with 8 goals to her name along with Brooke Osborne who joined the club this season. 

  UEA FC Women (University of East Anglia) are into their 2nd successive Norfolk Women’s League Cup Final. Losing out to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women last time around will be aiming to go one better this time out, knowing they are the only Division One side to beat Bungay Town Ladies this season. Currently in 7th spot in the table with one game left to play has been an inconsistent season winning as many as they have lost, struggling for a squad at times too have battled on and are more than capable of beating anyone on their day as the campaign results and cup run have shown. Records are a little sketchy in terms of goals scored however, Ella Burnley top scorer last season is leading the way too this time around.

Road to the Final

  Bungay beginning their League Cup campaign away in the 1st round taking on newly formed Mundford FC Ladies in Division Two. Lauren Goulder on target with a hat-trick it was a comfortable 7-0 win in the finish with Mia Rose, Brooke Osborne, Lauren Purling and Porsha Renwick also scoring a goal each. UEA FC Women’s first round trip to another newcomer Martham FC Ladies was awarded as an away win.

Into the 2nd Round another potential banana skin for Bungay as they hosted early Division Two leaders, Bure Valley Women at maltings Meadow. Looked to be the case too with the game ending 2-2 on the final whistle and going into extra-time. However Bungay found the extra gear to power home 5 goals to take it 7-2 in the extra period. 7 different scorers too with Goulder, Cossey, Osborne, Purling, Selina Rowland, Ciera Flatt and Lola barber King all getting goals.

Into the quarter finals, Bungay were at home once again taking on fellow Division One side Caister Ladies. The result has since been declared Void and Bungay Town Ladies advanced into the semi-finals. UEA FC Women also taking on Division One opposition travelling to play Long Stratton Women. Marched into the last 4 of the competition courtesy of a 4-0 victory.

Bungay were to progress into the final without kicking a ball, having been drawn away to fellow Division One side Aylsham FC Women, their hosts were having some troubles getting a squad together during that period and ultimately the away win was awarded. UEA FC Women had a tough semi-final draw but home advantage taking on Division one title challengers Sprowston FC Women. A close contest the sides drawing 1-1 after 90 minute the game heading into extra-time it was UEA FC Women who would find the winning goal in the final minute of extra time from Ella Burnley sending them into the final.

Youngs Park, the venue for today’s Norfolk Women’s league Cup Final. The ground seeing a lot of construction taking place with a brand new 3G pitch being built beyond the main playing pitch. Earth from that construction moved to build up an embankment planted with trees behind the other goal hiding the allotments beyond. The clubhouse open the bar and kitchen serving hot food and drink with a barbeque being prepared for later in the day. A fantastic weekend weather wise, a bright sunny start to the day with a light breeze blowing across the pitch. The grass pitch one of the best kept in the county in great condition for today’s finals games.

The new 3G pitch under construction at Youngs Park

 Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Brooke Osborne Charnelle Riggall (C), Ruby Roos, Chloe Ellis, Laura Thacker, Ciera Flatt, Selina Rowland, Abigail Bell, Zoe Cossey & Mia Rose. Subs – Kate Pasque, Lucy Hood, Grace Storey, Porsha Renwick & Lila-Grace Eden.

Bungay Town Ladies

 UEA FC Women starting XI – Maisie Johnson, Evie Bloom, Tasha Harvey, Olivia Seeley, Lilly Brewer, Hannah Thompson (C), Abby Durrant, Cass Piejko, Katie Appleton. Neha Mann & Ella Burnley. Subs – Leah Edwards, Ellie Wilson, Pernille Nerland, Tegan Collier, Lashay Moses. 

UEA FC Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Charnelle Riggall (Bungay) and Hannah Thompson (UEA) with today’s match officials

  UEA having done a lot of preparation before today’s final naming a full squad with 5 on the bench. Bungay too with 5 to call upon from the bench as the sides are led out onto the pitch. UEA to take the kick-off in the 1st half wearing yellow coloured shirts with navy shoulder’s navy shorts and socks, with Bungay lined up opposite wearing their blue coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the defence, Bungay move to close the ball down UEA slow to get it out coming eft, Abigail Bell steals it and surges on into the right channel for Bungay looking to play it on for Mia Rose coming over to receive UEA goalkeeper, Maisie Johnson rushes out to the top of her area to kick the ball clear for a throw in.

  Bungay looking to press the ball early on Bell, tackling Abby Durrant, the UEA midfielder coming straight back at her to win the ball. Selina Rowland brought down in the middle as she attempts to get the ball moving for Bungay, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Ciera Flatt over the ball sends it high in towards the top of the area won by defender Olivia Seeley who carries it into the midfield. 

  UEA regain possession on the middle captain Hannah Thompson playing the ball out to the right, Ella Burnley up top linking up with Neha Mann on the right wing, probing down the line, keep the ball back up the line squared into Burnley’s feet is brought down winning a free-kick 30 yards out. Thompson over the set-piece has lifts it over the wall into the box, defended headed behind for a corner on the left. Defended at the near post knocked back out to the corner taker, played long out to the right, Mann keeping in alive in the corner winning a throw leading to another corner. 

 GOAL! The corner curled into the box dropping far post, scrambled clear but the referee spots a handball and points to the spot. Penalty! Burnley placing the ball on the spot ready to take the penalty, strike the ball hard sending it racing to the left side of the goal, Pearce diving the right way can only get the merest of touches not enough to keep it out as Burnley runs away in celebration having fired UEA into an early lead. 0-1.

Ella Burnley opens the scoring for UEA from the penalty spot.

  6 minutes on the clock a nervous start from Bungay haven’t get their passes going UEA sharp to close the ball down. Free-kicks being conceded. Clearing a Ruby Roos long throw at the back UEA play the ball long up the left with Burnley pulling wide looks to play it inside to Cass Piejko running in behind looking for the return ball, Osborne cutting the pass out for Bungay.

Bungay’s Brooke Osborne

  Laura Thacker on the ball central for Bungay lines up a shot from range her strike not having the power behind it to trouble Johnson. Lilly Brewer winning the ball at the back for UEA puts a diagonal ball into the middle Piejko helping it on for Burnley peeling right running down the wing takes on the shot on the angle her low drive covered by Pearce down at her near post to gather. UEA gaining confidence from their bright start moving the ball quickly. 

Cass Piejko on the ball for UEA

 Flatt playing the ball up the left for Zoe Cossey to attack runs into the corner before lifting a high cross into the box, Bell coming in far post, Evie Bloom defending for UEA turning it behind for a corner kick. Fired into the penalty box, Thacker getting something on the ball before Rowland attacks it but can only place the ball into the keepers gloves. A clash of heads between Thacker and Katie Appleton as they go to head the ball, play stopped by both are soon back to their feet.

Bungay’s Ciera Flatt with UEA’s Abby Durrant

  Bungay winning a free-kick deep on the left, played up into the box, knocked back out falls straight to Osborne to the right of goal, on the angle strikes the ball a good hit rising, Johnson though shifting across her goal line gets her gloves up to knock the ball down to safely catch. UEA getting the ball forwards Piejko to Burnley out to Mann wide right looks to drive on, Bungay captain, Charnelle Riggall in to challenge the ball out for a throw. Osborne with the ball at her feet drives on up the left looking for Rose pulling across to the wing slides the ball on cut out by Bloom.

  GOAL! UEA double their advantage the ball helped on through the middle a fantastic ball to find Burnley back to goal top of the D, left, turns inside to get in behind and strikes the ball past the keeper before she can react to make it 0-2. 

Ella Burnley doubles UEA’s lead

Appleton is shown a yellow card after bringing down Bell in the middle. Flatt over the resulting free kick, lifts the ball into the box, easily gathered by Johnson in goal. Bungay clip the ball long up the left for Rose as she makes a run looking for the ball 20 yards out slides it across the top of the area looking for Rowland closing in to attack, Tasha Harvey lunging in with a foot to stab the ball clear. 

  Form the throw on the left, Riggall looks to dribble the ball into the box on the by-line lifts it high into the near post, Johnson there to pluck the ball down into the ground and snatch it into her gloves on the bounce. Bell latching onto a miscued goal kick from Johnson 25 yards out, looks for Rose as she turns to attack top of the areas however UEA hold their line catch the attacker offside. UEA making a change then bringing off Brewer, Ellie Wilson coming on. 

Bungay’s Abigail Bell

  Flatt on the ball coming across the midfield to play it into Osborne up on the left she sends it forwards into Bell just outside the box, looking to get the ball under control and turn inside, UEA get three defenders one her to crowd her off the ball. Flatt busy in the middle coming left putting the ball on for Bell her cross into the box is met by Rose, her attempt to shoot blocked at close range.

Bungay’s Zoe Cossey

  Bungay finding UEA’s defence tough to break down, Cossey coming into midfield with the ball puts it on for Rowland 25 yards out, puts her foot though the ball her shot whistling past the right post. 

Bungay’s Selina Rowland

  Bungay moving the ball sharper now looking to get forwards lifted over the top Rose breaks clear left channel, Johnson needs to come rushing out of her box to launch the ball upfield. Rose looking to link up with Bell as Bungay get the ball out to the right, Olivia Seeley helping out Bloom at the back the ball closed down well. Thacker up with Flatt in the middle the diagonal ball floated into the box right side with Bell making the run, Johnson out to challenge doesn’t get hold of the ball but on the floor is able to snatch it into her body before Bell can retrieve it.

UEA FC Women goalkeeper, Maisie Johnson.

  UEA making another change with Pernille Nerland coming on to take up a position on the left. Riggall battles her way forwards with the ball drifting in central before threading it on looking for Cossey, inside the D, looking to take the ball on a defender gets a leg in to deflect the ball out of her path. Flatt taking a heavy knock for Bungay, down in the middle, needing treatment a pause in play.

  Play resumes UEA win a free-kick on the right put into the box, cleared by Osborne. Bungay’s turn to win a free-kick out wide dropped into the box, scrambled away to the top of the area, falls to Thacker snatches at her shot lifting it over. Bloom gets forwards on the left for UEA, up with Nerland the pair exchanging passes, Nerland turning infield, Rowland getting out to close her down regain possession for Bungay.

Evie Bloom

  Nerland is brought down on the left UEA awarded a free-kick 30 yard out. Harvey to play it into the area, too close to the keeper, Pearce taking it high at her near post. Rowland winning the ball back high on the right played into 18 in the middle lifts it over the defence for Rose to attack, in behind, Johnson out quickly to get her fist on the ball knock it out of danger before Rose can meet it. Bungay a little rushed at time need to settle on the ball, Thacker on for Flatt plays it to Rose 25 yards out right of the D, sends her early strike wide of the near post.

Olivia Seeley

  UEA winning the ball at the back, Seeley clearing as Rose looks to see it into her feet off Bell. Thompson passing forwards onto Piejko, looks to play Burnley in on the right channel, a race into the box with Ellis on her shoulder the defender strong getting her body between the ball and attacker to see it back to her keeper to clear. 

  Riggall carrying the ball on well up Bungay’s left playing it into Rose inside the D, looks to bring it down under control off her cheat, Harvey knocking it away from her. Bell rushing in on the ball looks to take it on into the area but is quickly conversed upon, no way through. 

 Into the close moments of the first half Bungay attacking on the left Riggall on for Cossey comes inside and on the turn 25 yards out strikes the ball, her shot narrowly over brushing the roof of the net. Cossey inside with Flatt taking the ball on her shot, blocked 20 yards out.

Half-time Bungay Town Ladies 0-2 UEA FC Women

  Two strikes from Ella Burnley early in the first half seeing UEA holding a 2-0 lead at the break. Started the game well getting on the front foot in to close the ball down and move it forwards quickly. Bungay a little nervy at the start frustrated feel they haven’t got going yet, competing well enough not getting players up to support Rose in attack quickly the UEA defence comfortable closing down. Started to play better towards the end of the half creating a few opportunities and at 2-0 the game is far from settled an early goal in the 2nd half and Bungay are right back in it. 

  Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd half. Bungay bringing on Grace Storey on with Flatt who had received a knock in the first half off. Storey going into the back line Osborne coming into the middle. UEA with Lashay Moses on up top in place of Burnley with Brewer back on replacing Wilson. Positional changes as Bungay get the 2nd half underway, UEA in the close the ball down straight away Bungay smuggle it out to Rowland coming left has Riggall on the move down the wing, Thompson coming across to close the ball down for UEA.

  UEA feed the ball up top into Moses helps it out to Mann on the right looking to get it under control, Ellis and Riggall combine to win the ball back.

UEA’s Neha Mann looking to get past Bungay’s Chloe Ellis and Charnelle Riggall

  Thompson on for Piejko lifts the ball out to Mann attacking on the right her cross squared into the top of the six yard box Moses stretching for it, Thacker blocking for Bungay. Mann working hard on the right winning UEA a corner kick. A determined start to the 2nd half from UEA. Durrant to curl the ball into the six yard box drops down into a crowd of players, Rowland scrambling it clear for Bungay.

Rowland seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out left as Riggall storms on down the wing, looks to supply the return pass, Riggall, running into Harvey as she reaches the top of the area the defender playing the ball clear. Osborne over a Bungay free-kick on the right, lifted in towards the far post, Rowland stoops to head the ball, nods it wide of the upright.

UEA’s Tasha Harvey

  Cossey getting the ball on down the left looks to launch it up to the attackers, hurting herself as she goes down, is some concern as she receives treatment and has to come off a blow for Bungay, send Lila-Grace Eden on to join Rose up top. Harvey winning the ball well at the back for UEA coming forwards playing the ball up to Piejko moving left, Roos into defend for Bungay. 

Bungay defender, Ruby Roos

  A double change for UEA with Moses and Piejko coming off, Burnley back on along with Nerland with almost an hour played. Scrappy at times, the play and language colourful at times. UEA frustrating Bungay breaking up play keeping it solid at the back. Nerland taking the ball up the left wing cutting inside into the area playing it central for Mann, Ellis nicking it off her bringing the ball clear for Bungay.

Pernille Nerland

  Harvey picking up a yellow card for UEA, the free-kick to the right of the circle, Osborne floated the ball up into the area, Mann fighting to get hold of it getting it clear for UEA. Bungay frustrated things not happening, UEA working hard to get hold of the ball, Thompson breaking up play patrolling in front of her defence.

UEA captain, Hannah Thompson

 Appleton feeding the ball on for Burnley into the left channel knocks it up the line for Nerland to chase to the by-line just a little too much on it. Rowland knocking the ball on for Riggall powering up the left turned infield, the blocking tackle from Thompson, Osborne regaining possession of the loose ball right of goal drives into the box, Seeley challenging to win the ball for UEA. A drinks break called both sides over to the bench for fluids and instructions.

  Osborne with Rowland central for Bungay, playing the ball into Eden left of the box, turns inside running into the D looking for a shooting opportunity, Thompson sliding in to tackle for UEA. Changes for both sides, Tegan Collier taking up a position on the right for UEA, Flatt back on for Bungay. Osborne has her shirt pulled as she attempts to drive on through the middle for Bungay the free-kick awarded Flatt to send it into the box dropping far post cleared back out to the right, lifted back in high Johnson up to catch the ball. 

  The game opening up as Bungay commit players forwards UEA countering through the middle the ball on for Burnley to chase, Thacker on her shoulder as Pearce comes rushing out to the top of her area, just about wins the ball as Burnley goes down over her, the striker appealing but nothing doing. 

  Time running out for Bungay to get themselves back into the game winning a throw up on the right the ball comes into Riggall 20 yards out central, clips a shot in towards goal hr effort narrowly over the bar. UEA dropping everyone back now leaving Burnley up top on her own, Bungay getting down the flanks, but slow to get runners into the box. Brewer playing the ball up for Collier on the right attempts to thread the pass into Burnley’s path as she runs into the channel, Ellis going with her getting in the way to intercept the ball. Kate Pasque into the action for Bungay as they push players on looking for a goal.

  Rowland letting fly from range all of 30 yards out not troubling Johnson. Osborne inside on for Flatt 20 out, a defender getting something on the ball as she goes to shoot, enough to take the sting out of the ball see it run safely through to the keeper. Porsha Renwick coming on up top for Bungay, Eden coming off. Burnley seeing Appleton’s pass into her feet turns right of the D, looking to burst into the box, Ellis there to stick out a leg nick the ball.

Bungay’s Chloe Ellis

 Ellis bringing the ball on from the back played on for Flatt who in turn looks to set up Rose up top, Brewer tackling for UEA, Bungay pushing hard UEA proving stubborn to break down as the defence drops back, Osborne 25 yards out in the right channel screwing a shot wide. Into the last 5 minutes, with several minutes to be added for stoppages. Bungay pressing, attack right the cross send into the six yard box, UEA fight to get it clear. Seeley down in need of treatment.

  Renwick getting hold of the ball 20 yards out left side runs across the top of the D, tackled by Thompson the loose ball latched onto by Flatt, is charged down the ball screwed away to the right the shot on the angle fired back in across goal wide of the far post. Bungay applying pressure but UEA determined to hold out bring Burnley off, send Moses back on up top. Riggall inside for Osborne onto Ellis pushed up Roos available on the wing drives forwards, Bloom into challenge well for UEA.

 Johnson out to the top of her area a Roos lifts a hopeful ball in towards the box. Deep into stoppage time Renwick out on the right her cross into box cut out by Thompson with Pasque closing in beyond her. Lucy Hood joining the game at the death adding to the attack. Bloom getting hold of the ball with a foray forwards, eventually tackled by Roos, eats up valuable time. One last attack for Bungay Roos on the right, forwards for Osborne racing down the wing but the flag goes up to stall the move. The final whistle blows and UEA celebrate winning this season’s Norfolk Women’s League Cup.  

Full time Bungay Town Ladies 0-2 UEA FC Women

  A determined effort from UEA in the 2nd half, the defence solid soaking up pressure but rarely looking troubled, Bungay able to have the ball not finding a way through a frustrating game just couldn’t get going. UEA the better side started well, going 2 goals up and gaining confidence with it came the determination to keep Bungay at bay. Breaking up play well throughout. After missing out in the final last season, could see they wanted it this time around. Bungay disappointed but have to pick themselves up three huge league matches to come and a league title to play for. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Several performances of note to mention too. Firstly for Bungay, Chloe Ellis with some good tackling at the back. Charnelle Riggall getting forwards well to support the attack on the left looking to create opportunities. Ciera Flatt strong winning the ball and getting forwards. Selina Rowland too worked hard to get up around the box get onto the ball. UEA with a strong performance all round had a determination about them. The defence working hard to keep it tight throughout. Ella Burnley up top a menace her early goals securing the win. Neha Mann attacking on the right offering good support. The award though goes to their captain Hannah Thompson won the ball well, breaking up numerous attack and patrolled in front of her defence superbly in the 2nd half.

UEA FC Women 2023/24 Norfolk Women’s League Cup winners

  Congratulations to UEA FC Women on winning this season’s Norfolk Women’s League Cup

  An entertaining start to the Norfolk Women’s Finals day, UEA celebrating their triumph, and students are usually skilled in that department the drinks already flowing. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details. Time to find something to eat and catch a little bit of action from the other two matches currently under way before the League Plate final kicks-off.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC U18s v Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

Thursday 9th May

Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup Final

A trip into Cambridgeshire this Thursday to catch some more cup final action, a rearranged fixture from 12 days ago, the Women’s Invitation Cup final, Cambridge United WFC U18’s taking on newly crowned Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Champions, Whittlesey Athletic Ladies.

Originally scheduled to be part of a cup final double bill on Sunday 28th April at Soham Town Rangers FC, heavy over night rain still coming down that morning forcing the games to be cancelled and more headaches for Cambs FA in what has been a particularly difficult season weather wise. The Invitation Cup, Cambridgeshire’s senior County Cup competition, has been dominated by the two Cambridge clubs City and United in recent season’s with the pair the strongest women sides in the county.

Cambridge United WFC winning it last time out beating City, neither side is fielding their senior side in the competition this season, presenting an opportunity for another club to get their name on the trophy.

This evenings prize.

That said, Cambridge United WFC, have reached the final, this time their new U18s side. United having a clean sweep of the county cups last season with Cambridge United’s, Development side winning the Junior Invitation Cup too. That side since disbanded as the club looking to improve the pathway from youth to 1st team introduced a new U18s side having become an Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) in 2022. Playing in the JPL Warriors League against similar set-ups at clubs such as Derby County and Nottingham Forest have ad a strong debut season finishing 2nd in the table, with U18s players, making appearances for the senior side playing in the FAWNL during the season.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies reformed at the start of this season having had a brief tenure in the ERWFL in their previous guise a couple of season’s ago. The Peterborough area with a strong pool of footballing talent, have recruited a experienced squad, with many players having experience playing in the ERWFL. Strong on paper, have proved so in the league, going straight into the Premiership in Cambridgeshire, recording several large wins at the start of the season. Clear of the rest since the beginning with a 100% record with two games left to play have become champions in their debut season and in the hunt for a possible treble.

Along with their league success and reaching this evening’s Invitation Cup final, have also reached to final of the League Cup where they will face 2nd placed Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds a week on Friday, at Newmarket Town FC. Amongst their signings is the goal machine that is Emma Pollard, prolific in recent season’s no sign of that diminishing this campaign having found the back of the net for 52 goals in just 15 games. Tara Parker has 15 goals for Whittlesey from her 11 games with Taylor Dean also into double figures.

Road to the Final

  Cambridge United WFC U18s racking up a large score-line as they entered the Invitation Cup in the 1st Round away to Division Two side, Burwell Ladies. Cruising into double figures 16-0 the final score. Whittlesey Athletic Ladies with a bye in the 1st Round.

  Into the 2nd Round and Whittlesey again progressed without kicking a ball as they were awarded the away win against Division Three side, Willingham Wolves Ladies. Cambridge drawn away to Chatteris Town Lillies Ladies newly promoted to Division Two, won the game by 3 goals to 0 to reach the last 8 of the competition

  Cambridge turning on the goals once again in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup as they travelled to Division Three outfit, Manea Sirens LFC, another double figure score as they cruised into the semi-finals 10-0. Whittlesey in action in the competition at last drawn at home to Cambridge City Women’s U23s side. Several of their players featuring for the 1st team in the FAWNL this season it was goalless at the break with Whittlesey firing in twice in the 2nd half to win the game 2-0 Emma Pollard and Hannah Murphy with the goals.

  A strong semi-final line-up with Cambridge drawn away to ERWFL Division One North side, Histon Ladies. Scored twice to take the result 2-0 and reach the cup final. Whittlesey also away to ERWFL Division One North opposition, Newmarket Town Ladies, who had reached the final of the competition two season’s ago. Newmarket holding the advantage at the break leading 1-0. Holly Dryland scoring for the hosts would add 2nd goal to her name, but Whittlesey came back with Pollard on target for a brace and a goal from Katie Barber 10 minutes from time saw Whittlesey win 3-2 to reach the cup final.

  The rearranged Invitation Cup Final being held at Ely City FC’s Demcom Stadium. No stranger to the women’s game in Cambridge having hosted a number of finals as well as home to both Cambridge United and City for spells. Their own women’s team having a strong season competing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division three too. The large grass pitch with standing viewing all round with a seated stand set back above the changing rooms with the clubhouse bar and function room beside. The kitchen open too serving hot food and drinks. No sign of rain around this time still warm after a pleasant sunny day with the sun setting behind the trees behind one goal.

Cambridge United WFC U18s starting XI – Lily-Grace Cooke, Mistie Fox-Baker, Eleanor Townsend, Katie Walter, Beatrice Rogers (C), Lily Horsler, Natasha Coe, Gwendolyn Davis-Jones, Isabelle Gjergji, Millie Docking & Emelia Reinhardt. Subs – Serena Cobb, Holly Plummer, Daisy Hay, Florence Hjaltun-Rayner & Charlotte Crisp.

Cambridge United WFC U18s

  Whittlesey Athletic Ladies starting XI – Zoe Shepherd, Maisie Homden, Megan Strickland, Leah Barnes (C), Alice MacNicol, Jenna Nairn, Mia Wilson, Katie Barber, Taylor Dean, Tara Parker & Emma Pollard. Subs – Olivia Smith & Grace Spencer.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains. Leah Barnes and Beatrice Rogers with this evening’s match officials

  Cambridge with a full squad with 5 named on the bench, a late call off due to illness seeing Whittlesey naming just the two substitutes, roll on roll off substitutes being used. A change of ends before kick-off Whittlesey to attack the goal with the sun setting behind now down below the tree line so unlikely to cause an issue. Whittlesey to get the game underway, kicking -off the first half wearing an all blue kit with Cambridge lined up wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played back to their captain, Leah Barnes in the heart of the defence, out to Megan Strickland on the right, Cambridge push forward to press the ball, force a throw-in, looking to work it to the by-line Whittlesey defend for the goal-kick.

 

Whittlesey look to get the ball moving up the left, Mistie Fox-Baker winning the ball back for Cambridge, getting fouled as she attempts to bring it forwards. Emma Pollard up top for Whittlesey looking to get the ball down into her feet and turn and attack the Cambridge defence, their captain, Beatrice Rogers lunging in with her leg to take the ball away from the attacker.

The ball in the middle rolled out to Emelia Reinhardt peeling right for Cambridge gets on the move the striker pushing down the line coming inside 20 yards out playing the ball inside for Millie Docking, looking for the return ball as she races into the box, Whittlesey step up well to catch her offside. A probing opening to the game both sides looking to get the ball forwards shift out to the flanks and run at the defence. Pollard playing the ball out to Katie barber on the right the Whittlesey player driving forwards, Eleanor Townsend putting in the challenge for Cambridge preventing the cross.

Isabelle Gjergji bringing the ball on centrally for Cambridge attempts to play a threaded pass to Reinhardt looking to run in behind the Whittlesey defence, Barnes holding her position, intercepting the pass. Jenna Nairn sending the ball forwards into Tara Parker, knocks it down to the right with Barber on the move a strong run into the corner, Townsend under pressure holding her up, conceding the throw. Whittlesey pushing players up send a cross in towards goal, Lily-Grace Cooke claiming the ball high back on her goal line.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lily-Grace Cooke

The game being played at a fast tempo, the ball being moved quickly, both sides looking to use the width of the pitch, Nairn passing the ball forwards into Pollard right channel, drops her shoulder, to charge forwards before laying the ball inside for Parker top of the D, to turn and send a strike up over the crossbar.

Whittlesey’s Tara Parker

GOAL! Pollard nips in on the ball top of the area as Cambridge get caught in possession, right of goal she foots her foot through the ball, her shot rising smashing down off the cross ball falling central, Pollard is straight on it, no one close enough to challenge she keep the ball low, slotting her follow-up between defenders into the back of the net 0-1. Whittlesey taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes.

Emma Pollard celebrating after firing Whittlesey into the lead.

Whittlesey building a head of steam getting the ball forwards driving at the Cambridge defence, Taylor Dean on the left, on the turn attempting to pick out Pollard in the middle, Rogers getting to foot in to deflect the ball away to the right. Breaking up a Cambridge attack, Nairn clips a good diagonal ball out to Pollard pulling left in behind the full-back, Rogers going with her forcing her wide, her defensive partner, Katie Walter coming across in support clearing the ball.

Reinhardt snaps in to win the ball in attack for Cambridge, takes it forwards looking to get into the box, Barnes coming back at her to tackle, clear the ball for Whittlesey. Barnes has her heels clipped as she attempts to carry the ball out of the back after tacking Docking inside the D. Whittlesey with the free-kick, come left lifted on for Dean to surge up the wing 20 yards out playing the ball across the top of the area, Barber looking to get it under control and turn, closely marked by Townsend the defender winning the ball back.

Parker seeing the ball down central, puts Pollard away on the left, powering towards the by-line twists and turns on the ball getting past her marker coming back to create an angle to shoot, sends her strike crashing against the Cambridge crossbar, rebounding out to the right Whittlesey using their experience to force a corner on that side.

GOAL! The corner lifted into the near side, Pollard jumping unmarked getting her head on the ball, looping down towards goal, Alice MacNicol up form the back, getting her head on the ball to ensure it goes in, doubles Whittlesey’s lead as her teammates rush in to mob he in celebration 0-2. 

Emma Pollard heading the ball in towards goal. Alice MacNicol in position to score Whittlesey’s 2nd goal

MacNicol mobbed by her joyous teammates

2 goals down inside 20 minutes Cambridge respond with a triple change bringing on Serena Cobb, Holly Plummer and Florence Hjaltun-Rayner replacing, Horsler, Docking and Gjergji. Whittlesey imposing themselves on the game getting into a 2 goal lead, MacNicol winning the ball at the back lifting it forwards up to Pollard who lays the ball out to Barber coming on right side looks to put the ball back inside for Parker outside the box, Rogers cutting the pass out for Cambridge.

Cobb seeing the ball onto her feet for Cambridge, tracks forwards through the middle, Reinhardt peeling off the defence, Cobb looks to put her in on goal, Barnes intercepting for Whittlesey at the back. Cambridge looking for a response hustling the ball inside the Whittlesey half, Cobb linking up with Plummer can’t pick out Natasha Coe attacking on the left, Strickland defending.

 GOAL! Cambridge moving the ball sharper, Plummer central pushing on has Reinhardt ahead of her left of the D, looks for the return pass as she plays the ball into her and continues her run in behind the defence, gets it taking the ball away to the right inside the area before cutting her shot back across the advancing keeper to place in the bottom corner and score 1-2.

Holly Plummer pulling it back to 2-1 for Cambridge

A good reply from Cambridge after falling 2 goals behind, Whittlesey look to get the ball cleared up to Pollard up top, 20 yards out seeing the ball over her shoulder looks to strike on the volley, Rogers in the way to block the shot. Cambridge looking to be sharper in the final third putting the Whittlesey back line under a little pressure forcing errors, Cobb looking to get hold of the ball, create opportunities. Coming on into the left channel, Coe plays the ball into her path, hitting it on the move sends her shot wide past the right post.

Cambridge’s, Serena Cobb

Cambridge showing good character fighting back after conceding, Cobb adding impetus to their attack. Reinhardt taking the ball right into the corner her cross blocked turned behind for a corner by Wilson. The delivery into the near post, put behind for a 2nd corner, the next ball going long beyond the far post, Cambridge looking to get it down unleash a shot, Whittlesey moving in to block the ball scrambled clear.

Plummer linking up with Davis-Jones exchanging passes as she bursts away to the left channel, Barnes getting back at her her to tackle send the ball behind for a throw in the corner. Cambridge looking to work the ball into the box, the flag going up against them however, showing more energy looking to get after Whittlesey who give the ball away in the middle, latched onto by Cobb drives on before blasting over form 30 yards out.

Both sides competitive in the middle looking to win the ball, giving away a few free-kicks. Hjaltun-Rayner wins Cambridge a corner on the right, Coe across to take, goes long beyond the far post, retrieved inside the ball, Barber gets the blocking tackle in for Whittlesey to see the ball clear. Rogers winning the ball at the back for Cambridge brings it out from the ball looks for Reinhardt up top breaking in behind however the attack is brought to an end by a raised flag.

Maisie Homden getting to the ball for Whittlesey before Cambridge’s Isabelle Gjergji

Whittlesey soaking up some pressure from Cambridge in the latter part of the first half look for the counter attack the ball from Nairn on for Barber to chase right side, Cooke needing to race out of her area to clear the ball. Cambridge bringing the ball on through the middle, Cobb to Davis-Jones pushing on has Reinhardt offering herself as she pulls free into the left channel the attempted through ball cut out by Barnes. The game stretched Whittlesey coming down the right, Barber strong running into the corner on the by-line sends her cross in near post, a vital stop to turn the ball behind by Mistie-Baker, with Parker steaming in on goal behind her.

Mistie Fox-Baker with Whittlesey’s Taylor Dean

The corner curled in from the right, over everyone including the keeper at the near post, lands in the six yard box, hooked clear by Coe. Back out to the right, Townsend rushing out to block the ball away for a Whittlesey throw. Work the ball down the line for another corner. Put into the near post area again Cooke coming for it jumping well to get her fist the ball send it away before Pollard can connect with her head, a foul is spotted by the referee relieving the pressure.

Cambridge break forwards Plummer over on the right down the wing firing a cross into the six yard box, just beyond Reinhardt running in to attack, runs on for Coe moving it up the line to strike on the angle, a powerful strike angling into the bottom corner, Shepherd diving to her left makes a superb save turned the ball wide for the corner kick.

Whittlesey goalkeeper with a superb save in the closing stages of the 1st half to keep her side in front

Half-time Cambridge United WFC U18s 1-2 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

 

Whittlesey leading 2-1 at the break starting the game well taking the game to Cambridge attacking down the flanks getting the ball into Pollard up top opening the scoring inside 10 minutes before going on to take a 2 goal lead midway through the have. Cambridge responded by making three changes and proved a turning point as their young side showed great character to get themselves back into the game getting hold of the ball and pulling a goal back, as well as forcing Whittlesey’s keeper into a superb save. Having found the resolve to take the game to Whittlesey a game that looked in danger of getting beyond them is now one still very much for the taking.

  Whittlesey out early ready to get going again making a double switch sending on Grace Spencer and Olivia Smith in place of Wilson and Barber. The floodlights starting to come on as Cambridge return to the field to kick-off the 2nd half. Put back to Cobb central lifts the ball out to the right with Hjaltun-Rayner on the move looking to attack, Homden defending for Whittlesey. Cambridge up aiming to press the ball, Townsend on the left plays it forwards for Coe on the wing, Barnes coming across to get in the tackle regain possession for Whittlesey.

Cambridge’s Florence Hjaltun-Raynor

  Cambridge making a lively start to the 2nd half looking to close down the ball, Hjaltun-Rayner holding the ball up on the right 20 out lifting a high ball into the box, Barnes under it to head clear for Whittlesey. Nairn plays the ball on for Pollard left channel has Smith to her left down the wing the ball angled forwards to the area for Spencer attacking near post, Rogers back to win the challenge for Cambridge.  

Whittlesey’s Grace Spencer

  Townsend at the back fighting to get the ball back into Cambridge possession on the left, starts to bring it out before she and Parker comes together in a hefty 50/50 tackles as both go to kick the ball. Parker stays down coming off the worse, needing treatment a lengthy pause before she declares she is okay to play on. Parker back on the pitch showing no sign of an injury as she lunges in to win the ball back as Cambridge’s Plummer, Davis-Jones and Hjaltun-Rayner play a neat triangle through the middle.

   Nairn taking control of the ball centrally for Whittlesey passing in forwards into Dean, Walter closing her down winning the challenge for Cambridge. Whittlesey pushing Cambridge back, Parker tackling Plummer is fouled as she looks to bring the ball away. Cobb forwards on the left for Cambridge coming inside as Coe plays the ball into her feet, travelling across the top of the area, looing for a opening cuts her shot back in towards goal lacks the power to trouble Shepherd.

   Baker tackling to win the ball back off Smith on the left as she and Pollard look to combine out wide. Reinhardt nipping on to win the ball high for Cambridge out on the right pushes on before letting fly on the angle her effort driven in to the near post, gathered by Shephard. 15 minutes gone in the 2nd half Cambridge with a change bringing Reinhardt off up top send Docking back on. 

Whittlesey’s Tara Parker

 Barnes with an awkward landing as she goes to clear the ball for Whittlesey, up gingerly but okay to continue. An even contest Whittlesey working hard to keep it tight defend their lead Cambridge probing. Cobb with space to drive into centrally runs on with the ball before laying it to her right for Docking 25 yards out takes on the short screwing her attempt wide of the near post. Cambridge press Cobb up top into Reinhardt looks to turn in behind, MacNicol getting a foot in to win the ball back for Whittlesey.

Alice MacNicol

  Pollard a threat every time she gets hold of the ball and turns in the final 3rd moving on sends it out for Smith on the wing, pushing down the line Baker does well tackling to play the ball off Smith for a goal kick. Cambridge turn play around, Davis-Jones lifting the pass over the top for Hjaltun-Rayner on the right, no offside as Whittlesey appeal, Hjaltun-Rayner pushing inside looking to get into the box, Homden getting back well to challenge for the ball for Whittlesey. 

  Cambridge winning the ball in the middle Plummer getting on with Docking in attack played out to Coe attacking on the left flanks the ball rebounding off a defender recovered by Coe on the by-line checks back inside before firing in a near post cross, Shepherd down low to claim it. Cambridge competing for the ball need to slow down if anything else as Plummer finds Hjaltun-Rayner on the right channel, takes on the early strike from range, not troubling the keeper.

Cambridge’s Millie Docking

 Pollard taking the ball left fires her shot wide across the face of goal. Cambridge making another change sending Horsler back on to replace Hjaltun-Rayner. Daisy Hay also introduced to the game replacing Baker. Whittlesey making a change too Barber returning to the pitch with MacNicol coming off. The clock ticking down, a lot of stoppage time to be added mind, Whittlesey looking to defend their lead get the ball up to Pollard when they can.

  Scrappy at time, free-kicks given away, Whittlesey a little frustrated as play is brought back for a free-kick with no advantage appearing. Cobb winning the ball back for Cambridge attempting to play it on for Docking, Barber stretching to intercept the pass for Whittlesey. Rogers coming off worse on halfway in a collision with her own player, stays down another long pause while she receives treatment. Whittlesey upset as play resumes with a free-kick to Cambridge, Rogers up back on her feet. 

Whittlesey’s Katie Barber

  Plummer fouled by Barber as she gets on the move with the ball through the middle, the free-kick awarded 40 yards out. Cobb looking to dink the ball over the defence into the box for runners to attack, Shepherd back on her line across to get hold of the ball as it bounces up. Homden plays the ball up the left wing for Pollard who powers her way to the by-line coming inside, twists and turns on the ball moving into the box opening the angle up to shoot, Rogers and Walter both going into the block her strike.

Cambridge’s Katie Walter

  Cambridge with a throw on the left Townsend giving it to Coe 20 yards out to play inside for Plummer carrying it across the top of the area is frustrated as she pulls her shot wide of the right post. Getting a little nervy out there Barber pushing on with the ball down Whittlesey’s right flank, Townsend getting back at her to clear the ball for a throw. Plummer coming left looking to link up with Coe, Parker in to steal the ball carries in forwards Pollard up top making the run across to the right side the ball sent on for her to attack, whips a dangerous cross along the face of the Cambridge goal, Spencer running in far post, can’t quite reach it the ball out to the left Whittlesey manage to win themselves a corner kick. Cambridge clearing at the near post.

Cambridge’s Natasha Coe

Into the final 15 minutes including stoppages, Smith left laying the ball inside for Pollard top of the Cambridge area, attacks, Rogers closing her down with the blocking tackle. Whittlesey determined to keep hold of the ball defend their slender lead looking for a moment of Pollard magic to kill off the game, Nairn sending the ball into the attacker left channel jinks right the then left as she carries the ball into the box, unleashes a shot her effort cleared off the line. 

Whittlesey’s Jenna Nairn

  Coe strong on the left for Cambridge taking the ball inside puts her angled shot straight into the keeper. Coe coming off then with Reinhardt sent back into the action up top for the closing stages of the game. Barber and Townsend battling for the ball as Whittlesey attack right, both coming back to tackle the other before Barber lifts a ball into the box, headed clear by Rogers. Davis-Jones hooking the ball on for Reinhardt to break in behind but she can’t reach it before Shepherd coming to the top of the area and see it safely into her gloves.

Emilia Reinhardt

  Docking back to goal sees the ball into her feet right channel for Cambridge lays it out wide for Horsler to take on, Homden stepping in to tackle for Whittlesey Barber giving away a free-kick to Cambridge in a dangerous position 30 yards out central, Horsler over it, goes for goal curled over the wall, sees it fly narrowly over the crossbar. Rogers getting hold of the ball at the back for Cambridge carries it forwards with purpose before attempting to slide Docking in up top, Barnes there to win the challenge for Whittlesey top of the D.

Lily Horsler

 Barnes in position to defend again as Plummer attacks left her cross into the top of the area snubbed out by Whittlesey’s captain. Wilson returning to the action late in the game as Whittlesey look to see out the game replacing Spencer. Cambridge winning a free-kick wide on the right the ball floated into a packed area knocked down across the six yard box at the near post, scrambled clear to the top of the area, Walter snatching hold up it clipping a ball up attempting to play it under the crossbar sees her attempt drop over the crossbar instead.

Whittlesey captain, Leah Barnes

  Whittlesey break forwards Wilson on the drive with the ball as Cambridge commit players forward, the bench screaming for the ball to be run into the corner, Wilson instead sees an opportunity to shoot doesn’t get hold of the ball the effort taken by Cooke moving across her six yard box. Into the closing moments of the match Cambridge trying to find a way through but Whittlesey set to keep it tight at the back working hard to keep the door shut, over 10 minutes of stoppage time played with all the pauses for treatment, the final whistle comes at last and Whittlesey celebrate winning the county cup to make it a league and cup double in their debut season. 

Full time Cambridge United WFC U18s 1-2 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  No more goals in the 2nd half, Whittlesey knew they had to work hard to limit Cambridge’s opportunities in and around the box and the defence was solid. Few clear cut chances created, while looking for the chance up top to break away and extend their lead. Fantastic character from Cambridge to get back into the tie after falling 2 goals down in the 2nd half. Pushed their opponents hard in the 2nd half a competitive game but Whittlesey were determined not to concede. A fine effort from both sides, Cambridge can be proud of their performance, fantastic experience going forwards in their footballing journey. Whittlesey breaking the Cambridge dominance of the Invitation Cup getting their name on the trophy with another cup final to contest in a weeks time taking on Fulbourn Bluebirds Institute in the League Cup at Newmarket Town FC.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several names putting themselves forwards for this one some great performances out there. Firstly for Cambridge, Holly Plummer making a huge impact coming off the bench after her side went 2 down, getting about the pitch to win and receive the ball. link up with the attackers and broke in behind to score the goal to restore her side confidence. Serena Cobb to getting hold of the ball in the middle with several good runs forward. Beatrice Rogers tackling well at the ball winning her tackles. Natasha Coe strong out on the left provided a useful outlet throughout. Whittlesey knew they were in a contest and needed to be strong coming out 2nd half. Their captain Leah Barnes defended well though out, reading the game making several interceptions and breaking up attacks. Jenna Nairn in midfield played several great ball forwards. Katie Barber getting forwards well on the right to support the attack. The award goes to Emma Pollard, ultimately the damage was down in the opening 20 minutes and her attacking play was a huge part of that getting hold of the ball and taking on the defence. opening the scoring and assisting for the 2nd.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies 2023/24 Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup winners

  Congratulation to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup

 An entertaining cup tie two contrasting sides was fascinated by how this one would go and wasn’t disappointed. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details this evening. A busy couple of weekends coming up starting this Sunday and Monday with a cup final triple bill from Norfolk, busy but looking forwards to it.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Hitchin Belles Women Blues v Stotfold Women

Sunday 5th May

Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup

A quick turn about in Bedfordshire for today’s 2nd cup final with Colney Heath Ladies still celebrating their league and cup triumph attention turns to this afternoon’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup Final with Hitchin Belles Women Blues taking on Stotfold Women for the trophy.

The League Cup the senior cup competition with all the sides across the 4 divisions in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League taking part. In the finish the Premier Division Clubs dominating both competitions, the top flight in Beds & Herts always a competitive league often featuring a thrilling title contest. The League Cup final no exception.

This afternoon’s prize.

Another presentation taking place before kick-off with the winners of Division Three collecting their awards, Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses reforming a new women’s team this season storming to the title clear of the rest with a 100% record, well done to all.

Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses, Division Three Champions

Onto today’s opponents, Hitchin Belles Women a long established side with the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League have regrouped this season after losing a number of experienced players a couple of season back, ironically to today’s opposition Stotfold. Have since brought in a new crop of experienced players recruited from the old AFC Dunstable Women Reserves side. Found life tough going in the Premier Division at the start of the season picking up just one victory and 3 draws in their opening 9 matches, but have since turned thing’s around showing great form in the 2nd half of the season losing just one more match in their final 7 league outings, 4 wins in that spell pushing them up to 6th in the table. That form also getting them through to the League Cup final. Nicola Hollick the clubs top scorer with 14 goals this season. Marsha Glass on the scoresheet too for 8 goals during the campaign.

Stotfold Women formed just last season, building a team full experience playing in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League, as touched on previously taking several players from Hitchin Belles were a strong side entering the league in Division One. Finished 10 points clear at the top of the table winning all but one of their 18 league matches. Promoted to the Premier Division the Bedfordshire side didn’t make a great start with just 2 points earned in their opening 5 matches, since then has been a different story with 8 wins in their final 11 matches including a 4 game winning streak at the end of the campaign that has seen them finish in 3rd place. Have a three way tie for top scorer with 3 players, captain, Amy Jack, Charlotte Peters and Amber Olney all on 10 each.

Road to the Final

  Both sides awarded a bye in the 1st round of the League cup the football action beginning in the 2nd round. Hitchin at home to Division Three side, Bury Rangers Women, goals from Marsha Glass and Gemma Williams along with a brace for Nicola Hollick securing a 4-0 win. Stotfold drawn away to play Division One side Harpenden Town Women u23s, Charlotte Ryan opening the scoring, Millie Frazer soon doubling the lead going on to add a 2nd goal in 2nd half, Amy Jack, Charlotte Peters and Amber Olney also scoring in a 6-0 victory.

Onto the 3rd round of the League Cup, Hitchin at home taking on newly crowned Division Two champions, Letchworth Garden City Eagles. Hollick on target for both goals to secure Hitchin a 2-0 win and a spot in the last 8 of the competition. Stotfold taking on Division One opposition with a trip to Sherrardswood. Amy Jack on target to rattle home 4 goals with Millie Fraser scoring a hat-trick, Lucy McShane, Olney and Peters all on the scoresheet too, final score 10-0.

Into the quarter finals, Hitchin once more at home taking on Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses Reserves form Division One. Progressed into the last 4 courtesy of a 3-0 win, with Hollick, Hollie Quince and Holly Thomson getting the goals. Stotfold once again on their travels playing Division one side, Berkhamsted Ladies. Peters getting the goal for the away side but with the sides drawing 1-1 at the final whistle the tie was to be settled from the penalty spot. Stotfold going on to win the shootout 4-2 to progress into the semi-finals.

An all Premier Division line-up in the last 4 and all fancying their chances of reaching the final. Hitchin were away taking on Langford Ladies who had shown strong form earlier in the season. A close match a single goal settling it, Hollick with the goal to send Hitchin into the final. A tough game for Stotfold too, away to league challengers, Garston FC Ladies. Amy Jack and Kiera How scoring for Stotfold, however goals from Emma Steele and Emma Trill saw the game finish 2-2 and Stotfold having to contest another shootout. Held their nerve to win it 3-1 to book their place in the final.

A lovely sunny afternoon at Kempston Rovers FC, getting the team details sorted early giving me a vital few minutes to grab some food from the kitchen hatch and I went of the special, chilli and chips, very nice it was too before taking up position for the 2nd game of the day. A good sized crowd building in anticipation of today’s League Cup final.

Hitchin Belles Women Blues

Hitchin Belles Women Blues starting XI – Lauren Brooker, Georgia Carey, Rachel Spendelow (C), Ella Parker, Lily Ludford, Emily Peat, Holly Thomson, Natasha Ridley, Hollie Quince, Maddison Woodcock &Marsha Glass. Subs – Amy Dewar, Ella Vizard, Nicole Cameron, Chloe Davis-Garcia & Helena Saul.

Stotfold Women

 Stotfold Women starting XI – Orlagh Daly, Charlotte Ryan, Cleo Haynes, Chloe Keller, Bonnie Woodward, Amy Jack (C), Charlotte Peters, Leigh Burrows-Hall, Storm Moore, Keira How & Amber Olney. Subs – Amelia Bacon, Maizie Marsh, Isabel brown, Lucy McShane, Rebecca Lightfoot & Chloe James.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Amy Jack and Rachel Spendelow with this afternoon’s match officials

  It’s Stotfold to get the 2023/24 Beds & Herts League Cup final underway kicking off in the first half wearing Amber coloured shirts with black shorts and Amber socks with Hitchin wearing an all blue kit without their top scorer Hollick. The rolled back into the defence Bonnie Woodward laying it out to Chloe Keller on the left played forwards into Cleo Haynes the midfielder driving on with the ball through the middle sending a diagonal ball out to the right for Storm Moore to attack, Holly Thomson defending for Hitchin the ball cleared for a throw.

Hitchin Belles, Holly Thomson

  Lily Ludford combining with Maddison Woodcock for Hitchin taking the ball upfield on for Emily Peat bursting into the left channel, Keira How getting back on her to defend play the ball out for Stotfold. Stotfold press down the left to win an early corner. Fired in to the near post the ball squirming through everyone to strike the post bouncing back out into play before being smashed away the clearance striking Woodcock full in the face, rebounding behind, could have gone anywhere. The Hitchin player stunned on her knees the game stopped and checked out she is okay to play on. 

 An even start, Hitchin keeping a tight shape pressing Stotfold well, neither side making much headway in the final 3rd. Stotfold winning a free-kick 30 plus yards out on the right, Charlotte Ryan to play the set-piece into the box, Ella Parker under it to head clear for Hitchin. Stotfold snapping in to regain possession with players up around the box rolled into Ryan coming left sending her shot over from 20 yards.

  Progress for Hitchin on the left winning a throw inside the Stotfold half taken quickly into Natasha Ridley outside the area left corner helps it on for Marsha Glass ahead of her turns looking to roll her marker, Woodward in close attendance, doesn’t let the attacker through. Stotfold captain Amy Jack sending a threaded ball out to the left for Charlotte Peters to cross into the box, Parker intercepting the ball for Hitchin.

Stotfold captain, Amy Jack

  Ryan bringing the ball on from the back for Stotfold on the right sees her diagonal ball clipped into the area headed behind by Parker for a corner kick. The delivery played in to Amber Olney positioned central the top of the area looks to turn the ball goal wards sends it angling wide of the far post.

 Hitchin working hard to get the ball up the flanks getting on with the ball, crossing opportunities limited however as Stotfold get back to close the ball down. Glass given the ball 25 yards out checks inside from the right, driving at the Stotfold defence, jinks left then right before unleashing a shot, her attempt put straight at Stotfold’s goalkeeper, Orlagh Daly. 

Hitchin Belles, Marsha Glass with Stotfold’s Charlotte Ryan

  Signs of frustration from Stotfold, Hitchin’s formation causing them a few issues as they look to get the ball moving, Jack on for Haynes out to Moore on the right, Thomson defending the ball out of play. Hitchin making a change bringing off Peat, sending on Nicole Cameron. Peters with Leigh Burrows-Hall on the left pushing on down the line the cross looped up into the Hitchin box, Ludford under it to clear the threat. Hitchin get on the counter attack the ball played up to Glass breaking into the right channel in behind after the ball, Daly comes rushing out of her area, to try and win the race, just about gets there stopping the ball with her legs to slow Glass’ progress and her defence track back to defend the open goal beyond, Keller in position to block Glass’ shot on goal as she gets hold of the loose ball.

Stotfold’s Chloe Keller

  Hitchin encouraged press the ball, Ridley on for Cameron to take on to the edge of the box right side her cross/shot put wide as referee Jacob Hamilton calls for the 1st drinks break of the match. Stotfold unsettled needing to calm down, Hitchin working hard to frustrate their attacks. Play resuming with a Hitchin throw out on the left. Woodcock playing the ball on for Cameron up the line, dinks the ball into the box looking for Glass, Peters back to get a foot in play the ball behind for the corner kick. 

  The corner swung in towards the near post sent behind for a 2nd set-piece. Played in central this time, Haynes gets hold of it for Stotfold brings the ball away to safety. Stotfold build through the middle Jack with Haynes forward into Olney she looks to release How bursting away on the right, Thomson get a foot out to cut out the pass.

Stotfold’s Keira How

 Ludford coming off worse in a 50/50 challenge as she goes to kick the ball, looked nasty, certainly painful but is up back on her feet ready to play on. Stotfold are stirred up can’t get their game going as Hitchin continue to work hard to keep things tight at the back, Ludford getting about the pitch winning the ball well. Stotfold making another change bringing off How, send Maizie Marsh into the game. Olney taking the ball down into the left corner, working to get inside to lift a cross into the six yard box, Thomson turning it behind for a corner.

  Played in towards the near post, goalkeeper, Lauren Brooker calling for it, making a confident claim. Jack surging on with the ball for Stotfold though the middle lays in on for Olney who sweeps the ball out to Marsh wide right, her cross floated into the area, taken cleanly by Brooker. Glass snatching possession back for Hitchin high on the right pushes up to the corner of the penalty area sending an angled ball in towards goal, Daly getting hold of it before Woodcock making a run in central can pounce.  

 Amy Dewar sent on for Hitchin to replace Glass. Stotfold feeling some decisions are not going their way adding to their frustration Jack getting a warning from the referee as she challenges a decision. Hitchin catching Stotfold in possession, Glass nicking the ball threading it on for Woodcock central, looking to get on the move attack the box, Haynes getting back at her to tackle for Stotfold. Haynes coming off than for Stotfold with Amelia Bacon.

  Ludford on the ball for Hitchin bringing it on through the middle played on for Dewar she looks for the give and go with Woodcock to her left, Woodcock playing the pass forwards, can’t quite get to the ball before the Stotfold defence clear their lines top of the area. Hitchin winning a free-kick on the right, close to halfway, Stotfold unhappy with the decision… Red Card! Jack has said something the referee is unhappy with and is incredulous as she is shown a straight red card and sent off!

Amy Jack shown the red card

 Stotfold reduced to 10 players late in the first half, nevertheless get on the attack down the left Olney out to Peters a corner won. Curled into the near post, Ludford defending for Hitchin. The counter attack on the ball on for Quince up the right crosses into Dewar outside the D, Bacon stepping out to close her down deny the shot. A frustrating first half for Stotfold comes to an end as the two sides head into the changing room for the respective team talks.

Half-time Hitchin Belles Women 0-0 Stotfold Women

 Stotfold certainly frustrated in the first half, unsettled with Hitchin playing a new formation working hard to limited their opponents opportunities going forwards. Chances have been limited the tactics working with neither side making much head way in the final 3rd. Those frustrations leading to Stotfold’s captain, getting sent off. Work to do to prepare for the 2nd half, now being played with a player down. Not always the advantage Hitchin will need to find a way to make their extra player count, still very much all to play for. 

 During the half-time interval, another league presentation, this time for Letchworth Garden City Eagles who have won the Division Two title, well done to all. 

Letchworth Garden City Eagles, Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two Champions

 Stotfold emerging from the tunnel early, ready to get going again, Woodward wearing the captain’s armband now. Making a change Haynes ready to return to the action replacing Bacon. Hitchin back out ready to get the 2nd half underway have Peat back on the pitch with Quince substituted. The ball played back towards Thomson plays it up the left, Woodcock fouled as she goes to attack the ball. The free-kick lifted up into the box, cleared by Haynes.

Stotfold’s Charlotte Peters

  Peters plays the ball into Haynes the midfielder getting on the move a powerful run taking her all the way into the box left of goal, Carey getting close to her for Hitchin putting the the challenge to clear before Haynes can get support up to her. Both sides setting themselves up to keep it tight not let the other cut them open, Stotfold dropping off a little inviting Hitchin on looking for an opportunity to counter. 

Hitchin Belles, Amy Dewar

 A different feel about the game now, Woodward marshalling her side to keep their shape, Hitchin pushing up Peat with Woodcock playing the ball to the left, Thomson putting her strike straight at the keeper. Haynes making some powerful runs from the middle to get up into the Hitchin area again turns looking for options, Ludford closing her down to regain possession.

Cleo Haynes with some powerful runs for Stotfold

 Olney turning the ball into the box for Haynes up to the left, Spendelow tackling the ball cleared out of the box, Burrows-Hall latching onto the loose ball shooting from range, Carey getting in the way to block. Hitchin making a change Quince returning to the action in place of Dewar. Stotfold competing for the ball winning a free-kick out wide for a shove in the back, a high ball played into the box, Brooker getting up to pull the ball down into her gloves.

Bonnie Woodward captaining Stotfold in the 2nd half

  Woodward up the other end heading a Ludford free-kick from halfway out of her area. Haynes continues to make good runs up the pitch dragging Hitchin players with her, but lacking options when she reaches the box outnumbered Hitchin having to build from the back again. Haynes on the move into the right channel as Burrows-Hall sends the ball into her path bursting into the box, Carey closing her do timing her tackle to put the ball out for a corner kick. 

 The corner swung into the area over Ryan near post, appeals once more as Peters goes down but nothing doing a Hitchin look to counter attack, Quince carrying the ball down the left all the way to the by-line under challenge runs the ball out of play. Glass returning to the action for Hitchin. Ryan allowed to travel with the ball through the middle for Stotfold, unleashes a powerful strike from all of 40 yards out, on target, Brooker producing a fabulous safe leaning back to get her arm up and glove the ball over the crossbar. The resulting corner swung in under the crossbar again caught high by Brooker in the middle of her goal.

Lauren Brooker making a superb save for Hitchin Belles

  Ryan then called into action to defend up the other end as Glass getting hold of the ball attacks from the right, the challenge seeing the ball played behind for a corner kick. Turned into the area the ball defended Hitchin with players up quick to get it back Ludford into Cameron played out to Glass wide right her cross floated into the area claimed by Daly. Stotfold get the ball up to Moore running om up the right wing, squares her cross into the box, Parker running back to defend getting there to cut out the pass ahead of Olney.

Stotfold striker, Amber Olney

 GOAL! 20 minutes played in the 2nd half chances limited, for both sides, Moore with the ball at her feet gets on up the right wing closing in on the by-line cuts her cross back into the near post, Olney making the run, Brooker getting down to try and stop the ball, only succeeds in knocking it up into the air, Olney’s eye lighting up as the defence looks to get back on the line she connects sending it home to put 10 player Stotfold into the lead rushed over to the cross provider, Moore to celebrate 0-1.

Amber Olney hugging Storm Moore as she puts her side into the lead

 Hitchin falling behind get a corner up the other end, everyone from Stotfold in the box lined up to defend it played in near post, Cameron coming to the ball loos to flick it of her head towards goal, Daly seeing it late with a reactive save knocking the ball up into the air, Woodward sending it clear. Another drinks break needed, Stotfold pumped up having got their noses in front.

  Ludford with an angled ball into the Stotfold area from the left taken down into the keepers gloves. Stotfold defending their box, not willing to concede any space in behind. Hitchin continue to probe down the flanks crosses put in from left and right dealt with Woodward and Burrows-Hall respectfully. Haynes the player willing to break forwards for Stotfold her marauding runs eating up time if nothing else, hard to get off the ball lays it out to Moore on the right her cross whipped into the area, intercepted crucially by Quince tracking back with Olney breaking central.

Stotfold’s Storm Moore

  Stotfold determined to hold onto their lead, Hitchin struggling to find and answer to finding a way through on goal. Glass managing to break in behind the defence as Peat from the right lifts a cross into the box, Daly getting her glove on the ball to keep it off the attackers head. Glass 25 yards out seeing the ball into her feet helping it on for Woodcock breaking down the right, Burrows-Hall out to meet her clearing for a throw.

  Peters looking to get on with the ball on the left for Stotfold, Spendelow in to challenge play the ball forwards into Woodcock,, puts the pass inside for Glass, Haynes coming back to put in the tackle. Haynes picking up the ball through the middle goes on another surging run, Carey getting across to put in the tackle 25 yards out the ball loose to the right of goal, Olney running onto it blazes her shot over the bar.

Hitchin Belles captain, Rachel Spendelow

  Into the last 10 minutes, Peters on the turn corner of the area sends her shot racing past the far post. Woodcock snapping back at Stotfold to win the ball 20 yards out plays it out to Glass pulling right, falling as she goes to strike the ball, pulls her effort in towards the keeper, Daly with a comfortable save. 

Hitchin Belles, Lily Ludford

 

Brooker racing out to the top of her area to put in the blocking save on Peters as she snatches hold of a loose ball played across the top of her area. Hitchin continue to probe looking for a way through the Stotfold defence their opponents though working hard to limit any options make it difficult to break them down. Glass taking the ball on into the left wing checking inside to run at the box, inside Woodward steps in to tackle, Ryan clearing the ball.

Nicole Cameron battling with Storm Moore for the ball

  The clock ticking down, Stotfold looking to keep possession, Olney running the ball into the corner to eat up time, Hitchin needing it back push players on into the final third risking the counter, Peters bringing the ball up the pitch for Stotfold rolling it on for Olney in attack, Spendelow closing in to make the challenge the throw conceded on the left. Burrows-Hall getting the ball kicked hard into the back of her her by her own teammate as Peters looks to launch it, left stunned for a moment gets up gingerly before letting everyone know she’s okay to play on.

  Time almost up Olney playing it safe taking the ball into the corner. Hitchin grab possession back the ball launched forwards by Woodcock, Glass wriggling free of her marker to turn and try and attack the ball, stretching can’t get a telling touch as it runs safely through to the keeper. That’s it the final whistle blows and Stotfold celebrate as they win this season’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup.

Stotfold celebrate at the final whistle

Full time Hitchin Belles Women 0-1 Stotfold Women

  A strong 2nd half performance from 10 player Stotfold even without the sending off, they needed to improve in the 2nd period and with that set back had to make a new game plan, keep a solid shape and take there chance if they got one. Having gotten their noses in front were determined to defend working hard to limit Hitchin’s opportunities. Hitchin buoyed by their strong first half, just couldn’t find the answer 2nd half pressed well getting the ball into good positions wide but couldn’t find that clinical moment to score. A game of few chances Stotfold taking the one that mattered.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Not so easy this time around several good performances out there. First off for Hitchin, Lily Ludford got about the pitch well to contest the ball, and get the ball moving. Georgia Carey and Ella Parker with some crucial interceptions and tackling at the back. Nicole Cameron with some good runs to support the attack. For Stotfold, Storm Moore made some good runs down the wing. Amber Olney leading the line well, scoring the winning goal. Cleo Haynes strong in the middle making some forceful runs up into the box, hard to shake off the ball and providing an outlet to give her defence a break as they worked hard to defend in the 2nd half. The award though goes to the team captain in the 2nd half Bonnie Woodward was as frustrated as anyone with her sides performance 1st half and marshalled her side well in the 2nd making sure they keep a disciplined shape and won the ball well inside her box.

Stotfold Women 2023/24 Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup winners

Amy Jack ready to break down the pitch gate joining her teams celebrations

 Congratulations to Stotfold Women on winning this season’s Beds & Herts Women’s League Cup.

 An enjoyable if busy day at Kempston Rovers, nice to be back after so long away. Again my thanks to the two teams for their assistance today’s line-ups. My thanks to the the leagues committee members for all their help and hospitality today. They done well to have the season all done and dusted, enjoy the rest.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – St Margaretsbury Women v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 5th May

Beds & Herts Chris Renshaw Cup Final

After last weekend’s washout the cup final double bills begin this weekend with a trip down into Bedfordshire for the Beds & Herts Women’s League Finals day featuring two matches to end the season. First up The Chris Renshaw Cup being contested this season by St Margaretsbury Women and Colney Heath Ladies.

  Has been a while since I’ve been able to make the Beds & Herts Women’s Finals Day the traditional end to their season and an really looking forward to the two matches on offer. The Chris Renshaw Cup contested by the sides knocked out of the early rounds of the League Cup itself and some strong sides amongst them. The cup named after Chris Renshaw the leagues former referees officer who passed away, extremely liked and well thought off the competition formerly the Invitation Cup renamed in his honour.

The Chris Renshaw Cup

St Margaretsbury Women achieving back to back promotions to reach the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division this season. Winning Division Three with a 100% record in their debut season in 21/22. Finishing 2nd behind Stotfold Women in Division One last season to continue that rise. Have had a solid campaign in the Premier Division including a 7 match unbeaten run with 6 wins and a draw to put them right in contention for the title itself before eventually finishing 4th in the table.

Enjoyed a couple of good cup runs too, narrowly missing out to Stevenage FC Women Development on penalties in the semi-finals of Hertfordshire FA’s new Women’s Trophy competition before going all the way to the final in The Chris Renshaw Cup. Scoring plenty of goals along the way to with Paige Prior not only top scorer for the club but the league itself firing in 27 goals this season. Gabrielle Charalambous has 10 goals to her name too with Amber Strows on 9.

Colney Heath Ladies are the Champions, winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division and still in the hunt for a league and cup treble. A strong response from the club effectively rebuilding after losing their entire 1st team and with it ERWFL Premier Division status as they moved under a new club and name. Colney Heath Reserves side stepping up to the mark getting off to a flying start in the league with 6 wins and a draw in their opening 7 games. Going all the way to the Hertfordshire FA Women’s Trophy final where they will play Stevenage FC Women Development in the rearranged fixture after the original game was abandoned due to an medical incident for a Stevenage player. Knocked out of the league cup regrouped after a mini wobble to storm the league and reach the final.

 The league secured with just one defeat along the way, looking to make it a double today against St Margaretsbury have a squad with some useful experience and young talent scoring plenty of goals amongst them with 15 different players on the scoresheet so far this season. Mia Simmonds the top scorer netting 13 so far from 20 appearances. Cally Salter also into double figures on 10 with Holly Jury on target for 8 goals.

 Road to the Final

Both sides progressing without kicking a ball in the 1st Round of the competition, St Margaretsbury awarded the home win while, Colney Heath had a bye.

Into the 2nd Round St Margaretsbury were away in what could have been a potential banana skin again Division Three newcomers and leaders Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses. Goals from Chloe Ahmet, Gabrielle Charalambous, Kelly-ann Westgrath and Paige Pryor securing a 4-1 win to see St Margarets bury into the quarter finals. Colney Heath again not having to kick a ball awarded the H-W against Division Two side Hitchin Town Women.

Both sides rattling in the goals in the quarter finals St Margaretsbury were at home taking on Division Two side Buntingford Town Ladies. Pryor was on target for 5 goals alone with Charalambous also bagging herself a hat-trick. A brace each for Billie Curtis and Amber Strows with Katelyn Mulvey also scoring in a 13-2 victory. Colney Heath on the road taking on Division Two leaders, Real Bedford Ladies Development. Holly Jury and Mia Simmonds firing Colney Heath into a 2 goal lead inside 10 minutes, Jury would go on to net a hat-trick. Simmonds a brace, along with Amy Phillips. Cally Salter, Amy Williams and Jael Muzzi also on the score sheet in a 10-1 win.

Into the semi-finals, St Margaretsbury hosting Division One side Biggleswade United Women Blues in the last 4. Marched into the final confidently wining the game 6-0 with a hat-rick each for Pryor and Sherie Evans. Colney Heath away to another Division one side, Garston FC Ladies Mets. Leading 2-0 at half-time thanks to goals from Molly Slade and Sheree Oliver, Caroline Pennifold and Holly Jury on target to double the score in the 2nd half see Colney Heath into their 2nd final of the season.

The Beds & Herts Women’s Finals Day traditional taking place at Kempston Rovers FC in Bedfordshire. An early start a cup of tea the first port of call, the clubhouse and bar open along with the kitchen hatch serving hot food. A seat stand on the clubhouse side of the ground with standing viewing all round the grass pitch with 3G facilities beyond. The club a hive of activity with several youth matches being played. A washout in Cambridgeshire last Sunday couldn’t be any different this Sunday, bright and sunny some heat to the sun too, no wind and no rain forecast either, drinks breaks to be applied with the heat. 

St Margaretsbury Women

St Margaretsbury Women starting XI – Christina Xanthi, Evelyn Rose, Hannah Fowler, Jacqueline Stott, Sherrie Evans, Kelly-ann Westgrath (C), Faye Bullock, Amber Strows, Chloe Ahmet, Gabrielle Charalambous & Paige Pryor. Subs – Megan Walker, Billie Curtis, Laura Tyrell, Katelyn Mulvey & Katrina Martin.

Colney Heath Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Lauren Croucher, Anna Simou (C), Sophie Joseph, Maddie Gorton, Abbey Williams, Caroline Aubery, Sheree Oliver, Holly Jury, Amy Phillips, Cally Salter & Mia Simmonds. Subs – Laura Gifford, Olivia Corbett, Rachel Sherlow, Molly Slade & Lacey Blake.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Colney Heath to get the Chris Renshaw Cup final underway kicking off the first half wearing black and white vertical striped shirts with black shorts and white socks with St Margaretsbury lined up opposite earing yellow coloured shirts with black shorts and yellow and black hooped socks. The ball played into the middle rolled back to defence out to the left, Sophie Joseph sending it up the line for Cally Salter to attack, Evelyn Rose in defence for St Margaretsbury comes across to deal with the threat send the ball out for a throw in.

Colney Heath looking to get after the ball early on winning it high fed on for Mia Simmonds running the right channel fires a diagonal ball across the box looking for Salter’s run, Rose intercepts the ball for St Margaretsbury. Sherie Evans winning the ball for St Margaretsbury in the centre played up to Paige Pryor in attack back to goal lays the pass out to Gabrielle Charalambous on the left drives on before cutting her cross back to the top of the box looking for Pryor, Maddie Gorton getting her foot to the ball first clearing for Colney Heath.

Maddie Groton winning the tackle

Colney Heath break up on their left Salter wide with a give and go into Amy Phillips inside her, Phillips laying the return ball into Salter’s path as she surges up the wing before checking inside and pulls her cross, sending it swinging into goalkeeper, Christina Xanthi’s gloves. Holly Jury taking the ball forwards through the middle for Colney Heath sends it on for Simmonds attacking the right channel, lays the ball wide to captain, Anna Simou getting up on the right, Hannah Fowler getting in the challenge to deny the cross for St Margaretsbury.

St Margaretsbury, Hannah Fowler

Colney Heath getting players on pressing the final 3rd win a corner on the right the ball played in near side headed out back to the right by Jacqueline Stott, Colney heath returning the ball on the angle into the top of the box with Simmonds looking to control and turn in one motion, can’t keep her footing her shot tame in the finish rolling safely through to the keeper.

Joseph bringing the ball out from the back for Colney Heath on the left sends it long for Jury pulling out wide her cross dipping into the near post put behind by Xanthi for a corner kick. Played in near post not attacked however St Margaretsbury don’t get the ball clear comes back to Salter out left her cross, blocked. Amber Strows bringing the ball down for St Margaretsbury travelling left side played forwards into Pryor peeling wide, the striker turning inside to drive into the box her run halted by Simou.

St Margaretsbury’s Amber Strows

Colney Heath lively when they are in possession players driving forwards with the ball, Phillips on through the middle looks to release Salter wide left, St Margaretsbury hold their line well catching her offside. Oliver plays the ball out to Phillips on the left, Faye Bullock sliding in to take the ball away from her before she can release Salter. Simmonds fed the ball as she pushes on into the right channel looking to power her way into the box, Stott stays on her well to put in the tackle send the ball away for the throw.

St Margaretsbury defender, Jacqueline Stott

St Margaretsbury awarded a free-kick out wide on the left from deep the ball fired in towards the near post, Charalambous making a good run can’t reach the ball but puts pressure on goalkeeper, Lauren Croucher who doesn’t get hold of the ball instead knocked up into the air inside the six yard box in front of goal, Evans there looking to get her head on the ball, sees the ball land on the roof of the net.

Sherie Evans

Phillips pushing on left side up with Salter looking to double up on Rose at the back, the defender under pressure does well to get her foot on the ball take it out for a throw allow her side to regroup. The throw taken quickly Phillips puts the ball into Jury left top corner of the area turning on the ball releases a low strike fired into the near post, Xanthi has the angle covered. Colney Heath getting players forwards Joseph from the left sending a high ball in towards the top of the area, the clearance sliced behind for a corner on the left. Curled into the near post attacked but put wide.

Phillips getting up the pitch well to support Salter on the left causing St Margaretsbury a few problems, Stott winning the balls into the box cleared up to Westgrath plays it out to Charalambous wide left powers her way on before squaring a cross along the top of the Colney Heath box, Pryor taking a swing at it misses her kick as Gorton gets it clear. Colney Heath counter getting on in attack up the right, Fowler getting cross to challenge.

Gabrielle Charalambous on the attack for St Margaretsbury

St Margaretsbury making a change bring off Bullock sending on Billie Curtis. St Margaretsbury with a throw high on the left crossed into the box, appeals for a penalty as Joseph goes to tackle Pryor but nothing doing. A strike on the angle from distance from the middle held by Croucher.

GOAL! the mid point of the first half fast approaching Colney Heath building well through the middle, Caroline Aubery on the ball comes left lays it out wide for Phillips charging up the wing into the corner flashes a cross into the near post, Salter going in to attack the ball as Xanthi goes down for it, the attacker getting a touch with her left foot, not enough contact the ball still hanging there to hit, adjusts well getting the outside of her right boot to the ball to turn it over the line to score 0-1.

Cally Salter opening the scoring for Colney heath

St Margaretsbury look to get on down their left from the restart the ball inside for Charalambous  inside for Evans has a go from distance the shot over. The referee calling for a drinks break, is warm out there, fluids needed. Phillips getting on the the ball left side for Colney Heath as play resumes dribbling with the ball, Curtis lunging in to block her attempted pass as she looks to release Salter ahead of her.

Gorton with the ball for Colney Heath sends a diagonal pass out to Phillips breaking on down the left her cross squared in high towards the right of the D, Jury looking to meet it on the volley, gets her connection all wrong her shot blazing high. Strows on for Charalambous left side for St Margaretsbury her ross lifted into the box just over Pryor attacking the near post drops for Curtis far side, takes a swing at the ball but under pressure from Abbey Williams the defender squeezes the ball away to safety.

Colney Heath’s Holly Jury

A lively contest despite the heat Colney Heath pushing on stretching St Margaretsbury at times Oliver sending the cross field ball out to Phillips advancing on the left, pace to take the ball on before flashing a cross along the face of the St Margaretsbury goal, Salter flying in just missing it.

 

Williams clearing at the back for Colney Heath the ball long up to Salter 20 yards out central back to goal lays it off to her left for Simmonds who sends her strike over the crossbar. St Margaretsbury winning the ball in the middle Evans out to Strows inside to Charalambous who lays it into Pryor as she bursts into the box from the left her shot fired in low, saved by Croucher at her near post.

St Margaretsbury captain, Kelly-ann Westgrath

Westgrath taking the ball on for St Margaretsbury threads it on for Pryor up top, shifts her feet to march on into the area, Williams coming to close her down for Colney Heath. Aubery bringing the ball on through the middle takes aim, firing a shot in on goal from range, plenty of pace on the shot just not enough height to beat Xanthi, the keeper seeing the ball safely into her gloves.

Caroline Aubery strikes the ball

A nasty collision between Philips and Ahmet, the former coming off worse but ok as they both get to their feet. Simmonds seeing the ball into her feet turns to play the ball on for Simou getting on up the right her cross into the box collected by Salter near side turns puts it across goal but can’t pick anyone out.

Charalambous with the ball for St Margaretsbury with a powerful run bursting on to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. Swung in towards the near post, Oliver up well to head it clear back out to the corner taker, Swung back into the near post on the angle, Croucher calls for it and drops onto the ball.

Lauren Croucher

Colney Heath giving the ball to Phillips bombing up the left her clipped cross into the near side is misses by the on rushing Oliver, Rose getting hold of it hooks the ball out of the box, comes straight back in central, Stott intercepting and strong under pressure to get it away, Colney Heath pressing the box regain possession rolled into Simmonds right of the D turns to shoot sending the ball wide past the far post.

Late in the first half Colney Heath pressing for a 2nd goal, St Margaretsbury battling to find a reply, the ball played back to Joseph in defence, passes it back to her keeper as Pryor presses the ball, the striker looking to charge down the keeper as she goes to clear the ball top of her area strikes it against Pryor rebounding back into the box, Croucher instinctively goes to pick it up, St Margaretsbury appeal, the referee blows up and after consulting his assistant and indirect free-kick is awarded to the right of goal. A late chance for St Margaretsbury to pull a goal back shifts into Strows, moving central to unleash a shot smashes the ball wide past the far post.

Christina Xanthi

Colney Heath scrappy in the close moments of the first half the keeper missing Charalambous ball in from the left, scrambled clear, Strows adjudged to have handled the ball as she looks to get it under control top of the box.

Half-time St Margaretsbury Women 0-1 Colney Heath Ladies

  The half-time whistle blows Colney Heath putting themselves under pressure late on leading the game 1-0 thanks to Cally Salter’s goal midway through the half. Have looked strong on the attack getting players on well using the width and putting crosses into the box whilst in turn limiting the ball into Pryor in attack up the other end keeping St Margaretsbury’s top scorer quiet. Still with one goal in it the game still very much there for the taking and the result is far from settled.

Is warm out there, both sides putting a lot into the first half, the benches will play there part in the 2nd half. Colney Heath with a double switch at the start of the 2nd half with Jury and Simmonds taken off, Lacey Blake and Laura Gifford coming on. St Margaretsbury to get the 2nd half underway the ball played to the right, Colney Heath straight in to press the ball, St Margaretsbury keep possession well playing the ball on down the right winning a throw high the cross worked into the area taken cleanly by Croucher.

GOAL! Colney Heath with the ball in the middle as they turn play around fed out to Salter breaking away into the right wing sending a dangerous ball in across the top of the six yard box, Xanthi can’t reach it, but Phillips can as she meets it at the far post to turn home from close range to double the lead 0-2. 

Amy Phillips puts Colney Heath 2-0 early in the 2nd half

Colney Heath with their tails up breaking on down the left, Lacey Blake attacking firing a cross into the box, Fowler up to head the ball back out to the left, Blake lifting it back in Stott getting it away this time around for St Margaretsbury. Ahmet sends the pass out to Charalambous on the left taking the ball on strong with her run into the box before being stopped by Williams.

Gabrielle Charalambous

St Margaretsbury with the ball on through the middle by Evans for Charalambous, drives on, Williams putting in the tackle even as her keeper comes rushing out for the ball, the counter attack launched Blake on the left with Phillips the cross fired into the near post area, Salter beating the keeper to the ball sees her effort come back off the base of the post.

Phillips with the ball left, Rose tackling for St Margaretsbury the ball turned behind for a corner kick. St Margaretsbury clearing the corner, Colney Heath quick to regain possession turned out to Phillips left on for Blake on the move down the wing her crossed whipped into the near post headed away by Fowler.

GOAL! The ball with Colney heath central played into Phillips on the move left side taking the ball on power her way forwards into the box before smashing her shot low across the keeper into the bottom corner to put her side into a strong position with her 2nd of the game 0-3.

Amy Phillips celebrates her 2nd goal of the game

A blow for St Margaretsbury as they make a double change bringing off Westgrath and Ahmet, Laura Tyrell and Katrina Martin coming on. Curtis looking to attack on the left enjoying a good tussle with Simou, but gives away the free-kick this time. Salter caught offside for Colney heath as Gifford looks to release her on the right. Charalambous carrying the ball all the way into the box from the left for St Margaretsbury but hesitates before releasing a shot allowing Gorton to get a foot in on the ball, Colney Heath launching a rapid counter the ball lifted on for Blake out wide left taking the ball on surging into the area, getting a shot away under challenge runs through to the keeper.

Colney Heath defender, Maddie Gorton

Colney Heath’s turn to make a change bringing of Aubery in the middle, Molly Slade replacing her. Phillips into Blake on the left her cross whipped into the D, Salter near side bringing it down laying it off to Gifford beyond her strike, hit up high over the bar. At the mid point in the 2nd half, the third goal zapping the energy out of St Margaretsbury as they make another change, Rose coming off at the back, Megan Walker sent on as the drinks break is called.

Colney Heath’s Laura Gifford

Colney Heath making another change before play resumes, Salter the player off, on comes Olivia Corbett. The substitute out on the right playing the ball inside for Gifford, who attempts to thread a diagonal ball into Phillips attacking the area left side, Evans with a vital interception for St Margaretsbury.

Caroline Aubery holding off Chloe Ahmet

Simou opens up her body to slide the ball on for Gifford attacking down the right, taking the ball all the way to the by-line her cross is struck in across the face of goal with pace, too strong evades everyone as Corbett looks to get onto the end of it far post. Contrasting energy levels, Colney Heath with renewed energy pouring forwards, St Margaretsbury with the energy zapped out of them, Curtis still full of running however attacking left side taking on Simou once again, getting the free-kick this time around.

Colney Heath captain, Anna Simou with St Margaretsbury’s, Billie Curtis

The free-kick from the left up to the top of the area, Gorton looks to bring it away for Colney Heath, Curtis snapping in to challenge wins the ball back and puts it out to Charalambous wide left her cross dipping in central, cleared by Williams. Colney Heath straight on the counter attack Slade out to Blake powering forwards on the left her angled shot beat down by Xanthi at her near post.

Blake’s runs down the left adding to Colney Heath’s threat going forward in the 2nd half gets down into the corner before whistling a cross into the box, narrowly avoiding Corbett tracking in at the near post, runs through to Gifford central, Stott throwing herself in the way to block her shot. Colney Heath relentless getting the ball back high up the pitch, rolled into Corbett, left of the D, players the ball off the outside of her boot in towards goal, Xanthi, behind it getting down to claim.

Paige Pryor looking to attack for St Margaretsbury

 Oliver with the ball and her feet goes on a run through the middle, no challenge coming in is encouraged to go all the way, breaking into the box, setting herself up with a one on one with the keeper a Xanthi comes to close her down, Oliver shoots looking to put the ball past her, Xanthi saving with her leg, deflecting the ball behind for a corner kick. Both sides making changes as the match moves into the final 5 minutes, Charalambous coming off for St Margaretsbury with Katelyn Mulvey coming on. A double switch for Colney Heath, Phillips and Oliver taken off, Jury and Simmonds returning to the action.

Sheree Oliver

  The corner delivered into the near post from the right, St Margaretsbury defending the ball ack out wide, the shot taken on the angle, taking a deflection as it flashes wide, the resulting corner coming to nothing. Blake firing in a left wing cross to the far post, Gifford looking to get it down under control to shoot, Stott getting in the tackle to clear. Ahmet down for St Margaretsbury having picked up an injury, after treatment she needs to come off, helped to the side lines Westgrath comes back on. Slade finding Corbett on the right runs into space before sending a vicious cross in along the face of goal, Xanthi getting something on it to deny, Simmonds racing in to attack it.

  GOAL! Simmonds on the score sheet soon after as the ball won back on the left is played into her feet, the attacker taking it on, pressing inside heading for the St Margaretsbury box, Xanthi rushing out to the corner of her area to close her down, Simmonds gets her shot away sending it across the keeper to race on past her into the bottom corner 0-5.

Mia Simmonds running into the box to fire home Colney Heath’s 4th goal

 3 minutes left to play, Colney Heath  goals up not done attacking yet as Slade plays Corbett in on the right wing, takes the shot on on the angle her pacy effort, saved by Xanthi down low at her near post. Stott getting her head onto another right wing cross to concede the corner kick. Played in near side, Gorton coming for the ball can’t get it under control before Tyrell closes her down. Another corner on the right for Colney Heath, put in near side, Gifford looking to meet it knocking the ball up into the air, Simou looking to hit it on the volley sends the ball wide. 

GOAL! All Colney Heath in the closing moments of the match players up around the box the ball put across the D into, Gifford and Corbett left side from the top of the area, Corbett latches onto the ball and smashes a rising shot past the diving Xanthi inside the left post to score 0-5.

Olivia Corbett firing home Colney Heath’s 5th goal

  Into the closing seconds of the match, St Margaretsbury win themselves a corner kick on the right, Stott in the box putting the ball back out wide to the corner taker the ball fired back into the box on the angle, Williams with a vital interception with Pryor ready to pounce on it beyond her, the ball cleared up field the final whistle blowing soon after and Colney Heath celebrate as they win this season’s Chris Renshaw Cup and make it a league and cup double.

Full time St Margaretsbury Women 0-5 Colney Heath Ladies

  A dominant 2nd half from Colney Heath in the finish, piling on the pressure to score a 2nd goal early in the 2nd half, a 3rd goal coming quickly after zapping the energy out of St Margaretsbury giving them a mountain to climb, worked hard at the back, the 5-0 score line a little harsh perhaps, but no more than Colney Heath deserve for their attacking performance, came on at will at times, adding two more goals at the death to seal the win in style. Disappointment in the end for St Margaretsbury, nevertheless a strong first season in the Premier Division with a 4th placed finish and reaching the final of a cup.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Often a difficult decision, occasionally not however and this is one of those occasions. A few performances of note to mention first, for St Margaretsbury, Jacqueline Stott was strong at the back, called upon on a number of occasions to make vital tackles and win back the ball. Sherie Evans fighting to win possession in the middle trying to get her attackers into the game. Gabrielle Charalambous with some powerful runs on the ball running into the channels looking to create an opportunity in front of goal. Caroline Aubery and Sheree Oliver did well in the middle for Colney Heath winning the ball back and getting it forwards into their attackers quickly. Holly Jury ahead of them driving on with the ball and joining the attack. Cally Salter with some great positional play getting out wide to receive the ball and put several crosses into the box, as well as getting into the box herself composed to open the scoring in the first half. Lacey Blake making an impact on the left coming on 2nd half. The award goes to Amy Phillips who herself caused havoc on the left throughout the game getting onto the ball and driving forwards on a number of occasions, linking up well with Salter in the first half, her 2 goals early in the 2nd half, going along way to sealing the victory for Colney Heath.

Colney Heath Ladies 2023/24 Chris Renshaw Cup winners

Congratulations to Colney Heath Ladies on winning this season’s Chris Renshaw Cup.

Colney Heath Ladies also Premier Division Champions

A league and cup double for Colney Heath as they collect their award for winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division too.

  My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details this morning, the celebrations moved off the pitch as the sides competing for this afternoon’s League Cup final take to the pitch a quick turn around, but just enough time to grab a bite to eat before setting up for the next one…

by Darren Gilham

 

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 21st May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Moving onto this season’s ERWFL League Cup Final, played this season between two sides vying for runners up spot in the league as they meet in two crunch games at the end of the season, first in the cup with Stevenage FC Women taking on Luton Town Ladies. The Hertfordshire County Cup Champions playing the Bedfordshire County Cup Champions a little bit of neighbourly county rivalry to add the the mix.

The ERWFL League Cup the regional league senior cup competition with the Division One North and South sides contesting the 1st two rounds with 4 going on to join the 12 Premier Division clubs in the 3rd round.

This afternoon’s prize

The ERWFL Premier Division representing tier 5 of the women’s football, often competitive with a high level of talent on show. A tough league to get out of with only the winners guaranteed promotion to the FAWNL above. AFC Sudbury Women achieving that dream this season with a tremendous campaign to secure back to back promotions. Both Stevenage an Luton have tasted life in the FAWNL and the aim is to get back there themselves both amongst the title challengers this season but just missing out.

Stevenage FC Women relegated from the FAWNL last season, when there were 4 sides to be relegated following the FA’s re adjustment of the leagues following the disruption caused by the Covid pandemic. Harsh were close to hanging on to their league status, amongst the favourites to bounce straight back retaining a good portion of their squad under coach Fadi Mazloum in the top two for much of the season as the race for the title heated up with more sides emerging as strong contenders, Mazloum stepping down as head coach, assistant David Perry taking on the role on an interim basis guiding Stevenage to a fifth Hertfordshire County Cup win now given the role on a permanent basis. Amy Makewell Stevenage’s top scorer this season with 15 goals.

Luton Town Ladies themselves enjoying a long spell in the 4th tier before being relegated from the FAWNL were aiming to bounce straight back but Covid got in the way building a strong squad ready to mount a new promotion push were top of the league winning their opening 8 games only to see a points adjustment as Harlow Town Ladies withdrew from the league drop them back amongst the other challengers some competitive tussles at the top of the table have two games left to play one huge one against Stevenage at Barton Rovers this coming Thursday with the winner virtually  gaurenteed runners up spot. Will be smarting from their other league encounter with Stevenage leading 1-0 going onto the closing stages Stevenage came back to score a winner at the death to take all three points. Captain Jess McKay and Elizabeth Sanders are joint top scorers each with 17 goals to their name, with Leyah Maddix all into double figures on 11.

  Road to the Final

  As I said the Premier Division Clubs entering in the 3rd round joined by the 4 Division One sides to progress from rounds 1 and 2 of the competition. Stevenage away to ERWFL Division One South leaders Barking FC Women in the 3rd Round. Emily Schofield scoring a 2nd half brace with Rosy Wodhams also getting a goal in the 1st half for Stevenage and goal for Amy Makewell early in the 2nd period securing a 4-1 win. Luton at home to Bedfordshire rivals and fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies, the pair often vying for the County Cup, Luton were the dominant side on this occasion, Elizabeth Sanders with a brace and a goal apiece for Jess McKay and Fiona Constable sealing a 4-0 win.

Stevenage away again in the quarter finals taking on Hertfordshire rivals Royston Tow Women who they would also beat in this season’s County Cup final. Tilly Fidler getting Stevenage off to a great start scoring in the 2nd minute, Nicole Farmer adding a 2nd late in the half, Royston scoring twice themselves, another goal from Fidler plus one from captain Lucy Webster seeing Stevenage into the last 4 with a 4-2 win. Luton hosting Colney Heath Ladies in their quarter final tie, the game though abandoned through an injury to a Colney Heath player rescheduled for a later date Luton leading 1-0 at the break going on to win 4-1 in the 2nd half with goals from Sanders, McKay, Tanya Blacksley and Tsaianne Leander.

A tough semi-final line-up with the Premier Division top 4 into the semi-finals, Both newly promoted sides Needham Market Women and AFC Sudbury Women doing very well. Stevenage travelling to Suffolk to play Needham Market. Amy Makewell from the spot to fire Stevenage into a 9th minute lead were to give away a penalty to see Lina Nagib equalise for Needham Market then hit another spot kick to put Needham Market in front. Becky Shephard striking in injury time to see it all square 2-2 at the break. A competitive 2nd half Rosy Wodhams curling in a strike to put Stevenage 3-2 ahead with 20 minutes left and secure their place in the League Cup Final. Luton at home to AFC Sudbury Women in their quarter final tie goals from Tsaianne Leander and Shanice Lewis the difference for Luton as they won through to the final.

A break to edit some pictures from the earlier game time to get back into The New Croft and refuel a cheeseburger ordered and get ready for the 2nd game of the day. The cloud cover hanging around, the supporters gathering the general consensus being for a close and physical match. Paving around the pitch with a small seated stand on one side beside the main building opposite the new dugouts.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Mia O’Brien, Hannah Nesbitt, Lucy Webster (C), Nicole Farmer, Vicky Neal, Erin Price, Hannah Bodily, Rosy Wodhams, Amy Gooderham, Kelsey Millen & Amy Makewell. Subs – Grace Brooks, Jodie Bellinger, Becky Shephard, Emily Schofield & Tilly Fidler.

Luton Town Ladies

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Angelika Kopec-Knurec, Lilac Wilson, Adrienne Milton, Tanya Blacksley Elly Wade, Andie Dickens, Elizabeth Sanders, Ellie Sargeant, Fiona Constable, Jess McKay (C) & Shanice Lewis. Subs – Nancy Tucker, Hannah Major, Leyah Maddix, Maria Taylor & Shakeela Hussain.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Stevenage to get this season’s WERFL League Cup Final underway kicking-off the first half wearing red coloured shirts fading to black with red shorts and white socks. Luton lined up opposite wearing orange shirts and socks with dark blue shorts. The ball played back to Erin Price in midfield out to captain Lucy Webster on the right Luton rushing in to close the ball down out of play for a throw in. Stevenage looking to get the back on down the right for Kesley Millen, Ellie Sargeant moving to close her down clearing the ball.

  Price getting the ball back into goalkeeper Mia O’Brien to clear as Luton’s Fiona Constable left lifts the ball up to Shanice Lewis in attack. Lilac Wilson getting across to the left to tackle Amy Gooderham on the left as she looks to get a throw under control. Luton captain, Jess McKay picking the ball up through the middle travelling strikes the ball from 30 yards out her low ball straight into O’Brien to claim. 

Stevenage’s Amy Gooderham with Luton’s Adrienne Milton

  McKay winning the ball in the middle lifting it into the right channel, cut out but Hannah Nebbitt for Stevenage played forwards for Gooderham through the middle, closed down the ball regain by Rosy Wodhams as Stevenage push on tries to get it back into Gooderham left, Adrienne Milton defending for Luton back up the line Nebbitt closing down to knock the ball on into Gooderham left of the D 20 yards out curls a strike over the Luton crossbar. 

 

Elizabeth Sanders getting in to win the ball for Luton right side back for Milton put inside for Andie Dickens play spread into the left channel Constable with a low shot running in towards goal safely gathered by O’Brien. Gooderham looking to travel left on the ball for Stevenage a crossfield pass put out to Millen tracking on right side, Wilson getting in to steal the ball put it back for goalkeeper Angelika Kopec-Knurec to clear. A fast paced start to the game Luton rushing on to close Stevenage down win the ball get it into McKay and Lewis up top.

Andie Dickens

 

 Kopec-Knurec out to the top of her area to gather the ball before Millen can get to the pass on the right as Webster drives on with the ball through the middle for Stevenage. Luton very vocal encouraging one another to get into the opposition. Sanders getting about the park looking to win the ball puts it out to Sargeant on the left, Webster winning the header to clear. Luton from a throw on the left inside the Stevenage half to Lewis right of the area knocks it down to the top of the area right of the D for Dickens to run onto her 1st time strikes swerving through the area as it sails wide of the right post. 

Vicky Neal

 Sanders looking to plough her way through the middle going shoulder to shoulder with Stevenage centre back Vicky Neal heading for the box Neal does well holding her up, getting the free-kick. Wodhams threading the ball forwards into the left channel for Makewell making a move out to the flank deep, Milton putting in the challenge the ball out for a throw. Nebbitt getting forwards to support Gooderham as Stevenage attack on the left the ball held up well fed inside to Makewell left corner of the area, holding off a defender plays the ball across the top of the area Wodhams leaving in to Hannah Bodily to run onto a strike beyond her the shot blocked by Luton’s Elly Wade out behind for a corner. 

Elly Wade

  In low towards the near post Kopec-Knurec down well to grab it Luton look to counter the ball with Milton on the right lifted on for Lewis going through the middle won by Nicole Farmer for Stevenage. A tense encounter the two sets of players into each other Luton looking to close the ball down. Nebbitt on the left outside the box turns on the ball to cross in central, Makewell seeing her shot charged down deflected out for Constable to clear. Bodily on for Wodhams central Stevenage send it on for Makewell inside the area, Wade blocking her shot the ball deflected behind for the corner.

  The ball angle in under the crossbar Kopec-Knurec up well to get a fist on the ball turn it wide out the left side for another corner. Cleared straight bac to the corner taker tries to hit it back in across goal on the volley goes behind. Webster picking the ball up for Stevenage driving on through the middle going all the way as she exchanges a one two with Wodhams, arriving top of the area, Wade in to close her down. Wodhams sending a great ball into Gooderham on the left, Milton getting in to defend well for Luton. 

Luton goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec-Knurec

Luton sending players up from the back as they win a free-kick inside the Stevenage half to the right of the centre circle, Wilson on the ball played in deep to the far post Wade knocking the ball down into the keeper. 

 GOAL! Constable up on the left playing the ball into Lewis laying it into Mckay driving on central central taking the ball on into the right of the D before getting her foot over the ball to smash a powerful strike past the keeper to put Luton into the lead midway through the 1st half 0-1.

Jess McKay putting Luton into the lead

  Stevenage looking for a quick response out to Nebbitt forwards on the left putting the ball on for Gooderham takes the ball down into the corner turning inside moving into the box  her low cross put straight at the keeper. Bodily getting the ball out to Millen on the right for Stevenage coming to the top of the area squares a cross in near side for Makewell, Tanya Blacksley in to close her down for Luton as she goes to shoot.

Tanya Blacksley

  Wade bringing down Wodhams inside the box as she looks to turn on the ball played into her from the right, the referee pointing to the spot, Penalty! Makewell on the ball goes for power looking to place it top corner, instead misses sending it over the bar. 

  Blacksley in again to put in the block on Makewell right of the area as she looks to turn and shoot the ball coming into her off a throw. Luton looking to break from a Stevenage corner the ball right put on for McKay attempt to head it on for Lewis racing on left channel, Farmer intercepting for Stevenage. Farmer in again to cut the ball out stepping out to head the ball away as Sanders right turns to play the ball in along the top of the area. 

 Luton closing the ball down in the middle well, Sargeant then Dickens playing the ball out to Lewis top right corner outside the box puts a shot in across goal narrowly wide of the far post. Lewis across to the left to press the ball high putting it back to McKay 20 yards out to blast goalwards, O’Brien down to save pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left. Wade knocking the ball on near side, the free-kick given away as Sanders fouls Nebbitt going for the ball. Neal winning the ball well against Luton’s Sanders as the ball lifted on for her. 

  Sanders covering alot of ground for Luton getting across the pitch to close the ball down on the right has Milton bursting on past her given the ball, Milton sends a cross in low across the top of the Stevenage area cut out by Price. The ball on Luton’s left rolled inside for McKay 25 yards out sees it across her body turning to strike sends the ball over the crossbar. 

  Stevenage come left themselves Nebbitt getting ahead of Gooderham as she plays the ball on into the full back using the outside of her boot to deliver a cross into the top of the six yard box, behind Millen closing in central lays it out to the onrushing Wodhams to strike on the run from 10 yards out the ball crashing into the base of the right post and out for a goal kick. Sargeant down over on the far side with an injury for Luton the trainer on to administer treatment is back to her feet able to play on as plays come over to the benches to take on fluids.

Stevenage’s Amy Makewell

  Into the closing stages of the first half Stevenage with a free-kick right of the circle players up from the back as the ball in dropped into the area, Milton in to take the ball off the head of Neal to clear for a corner kick. Into the mix Price looking to attack it, Luton defending well close to goal to win a goal kick as the ball is turned wide far side. Sanders fouling Farmer as the Luton midfielder looks to take the ball on left channel, Luton not amused with the decision.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-1 Luton Town Ladies

  A highly committed tussle Luton working hard to close Stevenage down get hold of the ball, players winning their individual battles, Sanders looking to get on with McKay and Lewis in the attack making some good runs, McKay driving on to open the scoring mid way through the first half. Stevenage have had chances to equalise missing a penalty and striking the post, a close game as everyone predicted a single goal in it all to play for in the 2nd half. 

  Doesn’t appear to be any changes as the sides come back out for the start of the 2nd half, Stevenage looking to get at Luton as their opponents get the 2nd half underway. Stevenage almost undone straight away as Dickens closes the ball down put forwards for McKay breaking in into the right channel wide of the D going shoulder to shoulder with Neal holding off the defender to shot sending it past the on rushing O’Brien the ball crashing against the post deflected out across the goal loose, Farmer able to get there first to launch clear. 

  Milton pressing on down Luton’s right, Nebbitt in to challenge for Stevenage. A concern for Stevenage Wodhams hurt in the build up, has been a strong player for Stevenage in recent game unable to continue Stevenage forced into a change bringing on Becky Shephard. Sanders disrupting the Stevenage midfield closing players down. Milton tackling Gooderham the ball back into the middle of the park Sanders in to win it back for Luton on for Dickens puts it into McKay pulling right 25 yards out sends a shoot up to land on the roof of the net. 

 GOAL! Luton surge forwards Constable away on the left down towards the top of the area wide to flash a cross in central, attacked by Sanders, Price in to close her down the ball ricocheting off the pair out to Lewis free to the right of goal reacts quickly the ball into her feet digs out the shot lifting it rising into the top corner to double Luton’s lead 0-2. 

Shanice Lewis doubling Luton’s lead

Luton building on a strong opening to the 2nd half to score a 2nd goal, a further set back for Stevenage as they look to rally coming left the ball from deep cross to Gooderham breaking into the box from the right Kopec-Knurec out well to close her down sliding in to save at her feet. Intense as Luton go to close the ball down no quarter given the bench vocal encouraging Luton to get after the ball, Dickens and Sanders strong in the middle. Sanders getting back to challenge Millen as Webster bombs on through the middle Millen putting the ball in as Webster enters the D, Wade close putting in the blocking tackle. 

Lucy Webster

  Shephard on for Makewell central as Stevenage look to add some urgency to their play, lifted on for Gooderham on the left, Luton hold thier line catching her offside. Dickens sending the ball out to Constable on the left curls a cross in to the top of the area won by Stevenage’s Price. Stevenage making a double change bringing off Makewell and Gooderham for Emily Schofield and Tilly Fidler in attack. Stevenage with a throw high on the right the cross long charged down by Sargeant cleared Luton threaten to break, Lewis looking to get away through the middle, Price getting back on her defending well for Stevenage. 

Elizabeth Sanders

Luton come right Sanders up with Lewis the cross into the top of the area won by Bodily. Stevenage struggling to clear the ball as Luton push up on their box half cleared to the left falling to Constable hits it wide on the half volley. Lewis taking the ball out to right on for Sanders wide to lift a cross into the box, Neal winning the ball up against McKay, then gets fouled trying to play it out. 

  Wade getting in the way of everything inside the box up the other end as Stevenage attempt to find a way through on goal. Millen tracking back hurt as her goes to defend for Stevenage. Another double change made with Millen coming off along with Nebbitt, Grace Brooks on at left bac with Jodie Bellinger on to attack on the right with a little over 20 minutes left to play. A few tempers flaring is an intense contest. 

 Luton getting a free-kick out wide Constable to put a dangerous ball into the six yard box central in front of the keeper, O’Brien beating it down as she goes down the ball loose Neal doing brilliantly as she gets in to protect the keeper letting the ball roll across her body as Lewis closes her down. O’Brien stays down after but is okay after treatment. Luton looking strong on their right Milton getting on to support Sanders as she pulls wide the cross flashed into the area cut out by Neal away for a throw in. 

Erin Price with Shanice Lewis

  Into Mckay wide smashes a hard shot across the face of goal, Sanders closing in far post stretching can’t quite get there to divert it home. Luton with a strong spell Stevenage struggling for an answer. Another free-kick for Luton put in from wide cleared by Price, no break on however as Dickens gets the ball back for Luton to keep the pressure on. Sargeant with a turn and swing from distance dragged wide of the left post. 

Hannah Bodily

 Stevenage frustrated trying to lift it as they look to get themselves back into the game. Luton hungry for the ball determined to close it down. McKay with a wild strike over from the angle.  

 GOAL! Stevenage with a diagonal ball up into the top of the area for Schofield left of the D, looking to see it down take inside to shoot is fouled by the on rushing keeper. Penalty! Kopec-Knurec shown the yellow card. Grace Brooks over Stevenage’s 2nd penalty hits it to the keepers left Kopec-Knurec going the right way getting something on the ball but too much power behind the ball to keep it out Stevenage with a goal back in the 77th minute 1-2.

Grace Brooks scoring from the spot

  Sargeant picking up a yellow card for Luton. Sanders driving on down the right firing a cross in along the face of goal neither Dickens nor Lewis chasing in can get a touch. Webster at the back on for Shephard left lifts a diagonal ball up towards Fidler top of the  turns to put her strike wide past the right post 

Luton making a double change bringing on Hannah Major and Maria Taylor for Sanders and Wilson. The game moving into the final 5 minutes of regular play opening up as Stevenage look to press on leaving opportunities to exploit at the back as they have to gamble. Luton digging in Constable looking to relieve the pressure on the eft taking the ball on Farmer getting it back for Stevenage inside for Bodily looks for Schofield, Wade defending for Luton then wins the ball for a 2nd time a Shephard plays it back in from the left.

  Bellinger fouled on halfway to the right Farmer putting the free-kick inside, Taylor defending for Luton lifted forwards for Lewis in attack, Farmer getting back on her just about winning the ball. Tense Lewis taking the ball into the corner looking to eat up time into injury time Makewell back on for Stevenage an extra attacker bringing of Webster in defence. Leyah Maddix on for Luton replacing Lewis up top. Everybody sent up for Stevenage bar the keeper Luton defending their box, Wade strong, Dickens back too. 

Jodie Bellinger with Fiona Constable

 Stevenage with a free-kick out on the left into Price helps it out to the right with Farmer up joining Bellinger given the ball cuts inside Blacksley blocking for Luton they get on the counter attack the ball Maddix running on with the ball through the middle Neal in to charge her down well, McKay out the loose ball to the right shooting over. 

 Sargeant out to Maddix on the left goes into the corner before being fouled, the Luton free-kick cleared by Neal, then Dickens with a high boot giving the free-kick away top of the area. Wade cutting out a ball fed into Fidler up top. Stevenage with one last chance to push everyone up winning a free kick left of the circle played long goes through every one out wide for a goal kick. 

Full time Stevenage FC Women 1-2 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton Town Ladies celebrate winning a cup double adding the ERWFL League Cup to their Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup success. A strong combative performance to get in to win the ball through out showing great energy to get amongst Stevenage leading by a single goal at the break were strong at the start of the 2nd half hitting the post before doubling their leaf. Stevenage struggling for an answer at times getting a goal back from the penalty spot to set up a tense final 10 minutes however Luton were determine in defence holding on giving nothing away to win the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day again another difficult choice to make several strong contenders. Stevenage’s Amy Gooderham getting on well down the right creating opportunities linked up well with Hannah Nebbitt coming forwards. Vicky Neal putting in some vital tackles. Rosy Wodhams looking to get forwards into some good positions before coming off injured. For Luton, Elly Wade was superb at the back winning the ball, and getting out to block. Andie Dickens solid in the middle winning the ball preventing the midfield getting on, in turn allowing Elizabeth Sanders to get on put herself about wining the ball and making some excellent runs into the channels. The award though goes to full back Adrienne Milton had a excellent game at right back getting in to win the ball and winning her tackles. 

Luton Town Ladies 2022/23 ERWFL League Cup winners

Congratulations to Luton Town Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Cup Final.

 Another enjoyable day at Haverhill for the ERWFL Finals Day, rarely does the league disappoint with action, alot of talent on show. An entertaining game, tense tight as predicted, Luton joyous to emerge as victors. My thanks to Daniel Forde an Chris Abbott from the ERWFL committee for their help today… one game left and the season’s one.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Hutton Ladies v Newmarket Town Women

Sunday 21st May

ERWFL League Plate Final

 The season drawing to a close soon time for a rest after a busy season but first there’s a another cup final double to cover this time from the ERWFL, holding their finals day at The New Croft home of Haverhill Rovers FC. Kicking off proceeding the League Plate final an 11am kick-of with two previous winners of the competition meeting Hutton Ladies and Newmarket Town Women.

The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid the next set up from the county divisions two Division One’s based on geography, North and South aiming for a full compliment of 12 teams in each leading to a 12 strong Premier Division and promotion to the FAWNL. With two cup competitions the League Cup and League Plate the latter between the Division One clubs knocked out in rounds 1 an 2 of the League Cup. 

This morning’s prize

 Hutton Ladies finishing as runners up this season in ERWFL Division One South behind runaway Champions Barking FC Women. Winning the League Plate in two successive occasions in 2017 & 2018. Has been quite a while since I’ve seen the Essex side in action before Covid, along with several clubs I’ve yet to get reacquainted with. One of the longest established sides in the ERWFL managed by Dennis Hindley previous with the Reserves these days have come good at the end of the season to record 5 straight wins in the league to overhaul Billericay Town Women Development to 2nd in the table. Victoria Kinsman back amongst the goals top scorer with 27 goals from 17 appearances. Lucy Critchell netting 9 goals from the 9 games she’s appeared in. Backed up by a Reserves side playing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division a step below.

  Newmarket Town Women winning the ERWFL League Plate in 2019 joining the ERWFL the season before beating Histon Ladies 3-2. Playing in ERWFL Division One North, have had an indifferent season in the league as had the whole league itself short on numbers and losing a further along the way the sides playing each other 3 times as a result. Two defeats to start the season got back in amongst it with a 3 game winning streak, bringing through a number of young players have been inconsistent ever since ending up with a 5th placed finish have saved their best form for the cup getting into the Plate final and a chance to contest for silverware at the end of the season. Like Hutton backed up by a Development team and a strong youth set-up with a number of sides competing. Lidiya Mykhaylechko, Newmarket’s top scorer with 10 goals. Abbie Corbyn signed from Thetford Town Ladies at the start of the season on 9 for the campaign with Katie Speirs and Olivia Bradley scoring 7 and 8 respectfully. 

Road to the Final

  Hutton Ladies drawn at home to Division One North side, Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses in the 1st Round of the League Plate, the sides all square sharing 6 goals in a 3-3 draw after 90 minutes, Hutton were to come out on top in extra time with 4-3 win. Victoria Kinsman netting a hat-trick with Lucy Critchell also on the scoresheet. No such drama for Newmarket Town Women recieving a bye in the 1st Round to advance to the quarter finals.

Hutton Ladies with a tough draw at home in the quarter finals taking on Division One North leaders, AFC Dunstable Ladies. A close game a single goal was to settle the tie Isobel Boyd finding the back of the net for Hutton to send them through to the last 4. Newmarket Town Women away to AFC Sudbury Women Reserves newly promoted to Division One South a late kick-off featuring in a double header with the first team the sides were to slug out a goalless 90 minutes and with extra-time yielding no break through the game was settled from the penalty spot Newmarket emerging victorious 3-1 in the shootout to reach the final 4.

Hutton Ladies having home advantage once again in the semi-finals as they were drawn against Yaxley Phoenix Ladies themselves newly promoted to Division One North. The pair sharing a 9 goals thriller! Yaxley Phoenix on the scoresheet for 4 goals, Hutton edging the tie to progress to their 3rd Plate final winning it 5-4 with goals from Victoria Kinsman, Lucy Critchell, Chloe Woolaway, Hayley Critchell and Isobel Boyd. Newmarket Town Women drawn away to fellow Division One North side St Ives Town Ladies the pair have shared some great encounters in recent season this time it was Newmarket’s day as they put 4 goals past them to advance into the Final with 4-1 victory. Holly Dryland, Niamh Bridgeman, Antonia Smith and Katie Walker all bagging a goal.

The New Croft the venue for today’s ERWFL Finals Day, home to Haverhill Rovers FC and until recently had a women’s team in the ERWFL themselves but feeling poorly treated by the club have since disbanded, Haverhill Rovers nonetheless reaffirming it’s commit to having a women side representing the club will watch develops eagerly. The main complex between the main grass pitch and artificial pitch beyond. New dugouts added to the pitch since my last visit looking very smart. The bar and kitchen open for finals day serving burgers and chips. The morning bright and sunny although there was a chilly breeze blowing to and cloud cover would develop later in the day nevertheless great conditions for playing football. The grass pitch in good condition with the odd dip that will need attention once the seasons over.

Hutton Ladies

 Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Kelly Roberts, Rianne Dimmock, Kirsty Knight, Chloe Woolaway, Abigail Fry, Katy Edwards, Isobel Crichton, Hayley Critchell, Lucy Critchell & Victoria Kinsman. Subs – Lauren Knight, Isobel Boyd & Danielle Hindley.

Newmarket Town Women

 Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Grace Joslin, Holly Dryland, Kara Wayman, Lydia Mason, Liv Caffarelli (C), Chloe Slater, Katie Hayes, Faith Entwistle, Abbie Corbyn, Katie Walker & Lidiya Mykhaylechko. Subs – Antonia Smith, Liv Bradley, Sophie Yorko, Millie O’Dwyer & Katie Spiers.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Hutton to kick-off the Plate final wearing red coloured shirts with white trim, red shorts and red and white hooped socks, Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow coloured shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball played back into Katy Edwards in midfield lifted out to the right for Lucy Critchell, Kara Wayman and Abbie Corbyn closing her down for Newmarket. Comes back into the middle laid forwards into the D, Newmarket captain, Liv Caffarelli heading the ball clear.

  Newmarket build on the left Corbyn bringing the ball on put in central helped onto into the right channel laid back to Katie Walker 25 yards out lines up a shot rifled in the ball coming back down off the crossbar, Krissie Glover in goal captaining Hutton getting hold of the ball as players rush in on the follow up. Newmarket making a positive start to the game Chloe Slater clipping the ball long out to the right with Katie Hayes getting forwards Hayley Critchell tackling for Hutton, Walker onto the ball to cross in top of the area cut out by Chloe Woolaway for Hutton. 

Hutton’s Katy Edwards

Edwards getting hold of the ball in the middle for Hutton lifting it forwards for Isobel Crichton running in behind the defence, goalkeeper Grace Joslin quickly out to the top of her area to claim the ball. Hutton attack on the left the ball into Lucy Critchell central back to goal turns inside the get a shot away straight into the keeper. Newmarket bring the ball on through the middle on for Walker to thread a low pass out into the left channel for Corbyn to attack, Kelly Roberts going with her the defender doing well to play the ball of Corbyn behind for the goal kick. 

Kelly Roberts with Newmarket’s Abbie Corbyn

 GOAL! Victoria Kinsman rising in the centre to win the header knocking the ball forwards for Lucy Critchell racing through the middle driving for the box shifts out to the left prodding it on for Hayley Critchell to the left corner of the area, she pulls the trigger angling a low drive across the face of goal into the bottom corner to give Hutton the lead 1-0.

Hayley Critchell congratulated by her teammates after scoring the opening goal for Hutton

  Hutton taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes attack on the right winning a corner kick. The ball played in along the six yard box coming out to Woolaway at the far post her shot blocked by Holly Dryland defending the post for Newmarket, looking to clear there area the ball is clipped back in for Kinsman attacking to the left of the goal, Joslin rushing out to put in the blocking save on the striker. 

  Newmarket win the ball at the back Lydia Mason into Faith Entwistle the ball played out to the left for Corbyn Hutton giving a foul away in a dangerous position outside the area to the left side of the area. Hayes over the ball curls it around the wall and fires her strike against the bar!

GOAL! Moments after Newmarket strike the bar for the 2nd time they are hit on the counter as Hutton win the ball back on the right Lucy Critchell and Crichton exchanging passes before Critchell picks out Edwards central to lay the ball out wide to Hayley Critchell, sweeping a cross into the six yard box Kinsman stealing in adjusts her body to meet the ball with her head and drive the ball past the keeper to double the lead 2-0. 

Victoria Kinsman scorer of Hutton’s 2nd goal

  A blow for Newmarket coming so close one end then conceding have the ball central Walker lifting in on for Lidiya Mykhaylechko to chase too much on the ball however Glover can see it out for a goal kick. Kinsman moving across the Newmarket back line to find an opening stealing in clear on the right whips a cross into the six yard box, Lucy Critchell making a central run can’t quite get there. 

 Hutton coming on left side Kinsman across to support Hayley Critchell winning a throw in the corner, Dryland doing well in defence to regain possession for Newmarket. Another ball threaded onto the left channel for Corbyn to bear down on, Glover out quickly to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Corbyn and Roberts chasing for the ball on the right, Roberts looking to see it out for a throw holding Corbyn off the winger keeping it as even as Roberts picks it up expecting the throw, dismayed when she gives away a free kick instead for handling the ball. The free-kick in the corner flashed in across the far post Chloe Staler attacking not quite able to get a touch. 

Abbie Corbyn keeping the ball in play even as Kelly Roberts thinks it’s out.

 Entwistle rushing in to make the blocking tackle inside the Hutton half comes on with the ball for Newmarket laying it out to Hayes right of the box pulls the trigger from 20 yards, Rianne Dimmock getting in the way to blocks feeling the full effect of Hayes’ strike, down for a moment but up okay to play on. 

 Edwards with room to play the ball on in midfield for Hutton Kinsman and Lucy Critchell with good movement ahead of her. Hayley Critchell picked out on the left, Dryland winning the challenge for Newmarket. Corbyn fouled on halfway the ball played forwards to the top of the Hutton area cleared by Kirsty Knight into Edwards on for Abigail Fry tackled by Slater. 

GOAL! Kinsman onto the ball inside the Newmarket half turning to lay it out to Lucy Critchell running into the right channel getting past Kara Wayman running into the box, Wayman attempts to get back at her lunging in attempting to win the ball only succeeds in taking out the player… Penalty! Kinsman with the ball placing it on the spot moves back and running in strikes the ball hard to the right of goal to score 3-0.

Kinsman scoring from the spot to make it 3

 Hutton going into a 3 goal lead midway through the 1st half getting on top on the Plate Final. Hayes sending the ball from the right across the area looking for Corbyn far side cut out by Woolaway deflected out to the left retrieved by Corbyn dribbles the ball back into box left side firing a cross in close to the near post again cut out by Woolaway away for a corner kick.

  The ball into the six yard box won by Hutton coming out of the area look to break, The threat neutralised by referee Charlotte Hindmarch inadvertently getting in the way of the ball outside the area, play brought back for a drop ball to Hutton. Hayes coming inside linking up with Entwistle the ball out to Corbyn left, Roberts getting in to close her down. Newmarket getting on well enough down the flanks Hayes winning a throw deep, Dimmock with the defending playing the ball back for Glover, Mykhaylechko running in to close her down pulling out knowing she can’t get there.

  The ball clear to the left regained by Dryland on for Hayes crossed in from deep, intercepted by Woolaway. Hutton dangerous on the counter running away into the channels Lucy Critchell on the right 20 yards out with a strike swerving high past the right post. Hutton making a change bringing of Hayley Critchell on the left to be replaced by Danielle Hindley. 

Chloe Slater

  Hindley straight into the action onto the ball central carrying it out into the left corner Dryland in on her to concede the corner. Swung in towards the near post, Dryland again rising to head the ball clear. The game opening up as Hindley drives on left for Hutton, Dryland in to make the blocking challenge the ball cleared out to Corbyn on the left, has Wayman going past her on the overlap the ball played on for her, Woolaway out to close her down.

  Edwards picking out Kinsman outside the area left of the Newmarket going shifting the ball inside, shapes to shoot even as Joslin comes racing out to close her down the ball struck past the keeper, but alos wide of the far post. Edwards closing down the ball in the middle puts it on for Hindley on the left passes inside to Kinsman outside the box trapping the ball in her feet looks to shift inside to shoot, Mason in to block, the ball cleared by Slater. 

Hutton with a 2nd change bringing off Crichton replaced by Isobel Boyd. The ball played long into the right channel for Boyd, Wayman across her seeing the ball back to Joslin to clear. Edwards taking on the strike from distance straight into Joslin. Newmarket making a double change bringing on Sophia Yorko and Antonia Smith for Mason and Entwistle. Yorko straight into defend putting in the tackle on Kinsman as she bursts on right side. 

GOAL! Newmarket pull a goal back pressing Hutton on the ball in the final 3rd Smith closing down lifting it high into the D for Mykhaylechko to attack, Glover rushing out t close her down making the blocking save at the top of her area the ball deflected out to the right, knocked back into the area behind the stranded keeper by Slater into Mykhaylechko to send the ball into the empty net beyond 3-1. 

Lidiya Mykhaylechko pulling a goal back for Newmarket

  Smith getting into close the ball down for Newmarket press Hutton inside their half fed on Mykhaylechko is caught offside. Hayes on the right sending the ball on for Mykhaylechko to give chase too much though Glover coming to clear it. Corbyn battling with Roberts for the ball left sends in on for Wayman running past her to take the ball on into the area left closing in on the near post fires in a low shot Glover covering her post, seeing the ball safely into her gloves. 

  Just the single minute of stoppage time to be played, time for Hutton to mount one last attack Lucy Critchell playing the ball out to Hindley on the left down the line sends it inside for Kinsman coming out to receive the ball, Dryland getting her foot in to take the ball away from her.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 3-1 Newmarket Town Women

   Hutton taking a 3-1 lead into the break as the sides head back into the changing rooms. Newmarket starting brightly rattling the crossbar in the opening minute pushing on Hutton breaking away to find the opening goal inside 10 minutes. Making some good forward runs Newmarket were again to strike the woodwork before conceding a 2nd almost immediately after Hutton going 2-0 up added a 3rd from the penalty spot midway through the 2nd half. Comfortable Newmarket making changing paying off almost instantly as Smith closed the ball down to set up Mykhaylechko to score pull it back to 3-1 give Newmarket something as they look to find a way back into the game in the 2nd half. 

Victoria Kinsman with Newmarket captain Liv Caffarelli

  No changes for either side as Newmarket get the 2nd half underway the ball out to Dryland on the right looks to get forwards support Hayes, Dimmock defending for Hutton. Newmarket press the ball on the right early on winning a throw high put on for Hayes her cross along the face of goal Walker jumping to attack far post can’t quite reach it.

Holly Dryland defending against Hutton’s Danielle Hindley

 Newmarket’s Slater sending a diagonal ball into Hayes 20 yards out on the right of the area controlling the ball shifts into the area getting a half yard on her marker to unleash a shot, cut in low Glover going one way saves brilliantly with her legs knocking the ball away to the right. 

Krissie Glover saving Katie Hayes shot with her legs

Hutton’s captain and goalkeeper, Krissie Glover

  Hutton look to get the ball down into the Newmarket half out on the left Dryland defending knocking the ball out for a throw deep, dropped into Kinsman’s feet outside the box left turns sending a cross into the six yard box Boyd closing in right post knocking the shot wide past the left post. 

  Smith regaining possession well for Newmarket in the middle sending it on for Hayes on the right wing coming back inside to shot from 25 yards out on the move over hits it sending the ball wide of the far post. A miscue at the back on the left sees Lucy Critchell steal onto a short pass and cut inside to run for the box, Slater getting back on her diving in to win the ball top of the area for Newmarket. Dryland taking the ball on up the right for Newmarket on for Hayes lifts it across the pitch to Corbyn trying to get away on the left, Roberts just about getting her foot in to knock the ball out of her path.

Abbie Corbyn

  Newmarket lively looking better now getting forwards, Hutton patient with the experience in attack to counter. Hindley coming on left sweeping a ball into the area cut out well by Yorko. Smith with Walker in the middle winning the ball for Newmarket lifted out to Hayes on the right drives forwards, Dimmock closing to challenge for Hutton. Lucy Critchell bringing the ball on into the left channel for Hutton Hindley with her the ball taken on forwards for Kinsman tracking down to the by-line before turning to cross the ball cleared by Caffarelli. 

Lucy Critchell

  Kinsman getting into space on the left playing the ball into Hindley getting up the pitch to send a waist high cross racing trough the top of the six yard box Lucy Critchell throwing a leg up and only get a glancing touch taking it on wide of the right post. Hayes and Corbyn swapping wings for Newmarket, as Fry gets the ball on for Hutton out to the left on for Hindley winning a corner. The inswinging delivery sent in across the face of goal Roberts looking to get her head on it needed a shout from Kinsman coming in ready to power the ball home beyond her as it runs out of play far side for a goal kick.

  GOAL! One chance goes begging it isn’t long before Hutton regain the ball high on the right lifting a deep cross into the area Hindley inside the box left of goal, Dryland and Slater going to clear the ball get in each others way, allowing the attacker to steal in to take the ball beyond them and send t wide across Joslin into far side of the net 4-1.

  Hutton restoring a 3 goal cushion with another corner kick on the right put in high Newmarket clear the ball back out to the right sent back into the area from deep falling for Kinsman central getting her foot over the ball to shoot drags it wide of the left post. Hutton making another change bringing on Lauren Knight for Fry. Hindley taking the ball inside from the left firing it into Lucy Critchell outside the D powering forwards Walker tracking back to challenge the shot under challenge coming in low as Joslin gets down to see it into her gloves, saves with her face instead as the ball hit a divot and skips up before her before she knows anything about it luckily deflected away behind for a corner kick. The corner played long to the far post Dryland covering clears for Newmarket. 

Katie Walker

  Dryland picking up a slight injury coming off for Newmarket at the back with Katie Spiers coming on to join the attack. Newmarket pressing hit on the break Edwards on for Hindley through the middle out to Kinsman pulling wide left inside the box fires a cross in towards the far post Lucy Critchell making a run to get onto the end of it, Joslin down well to get hold of the ball to deny the chance. 

Newmarket goalkeeper, Grace Joslin

  Smith into Mykhaylechko through the middle out to Corbyn right side Dimmock stepping in to tackle for Hutton at the back. Walker with a strike from distance for Newmarket landing on the roof of the net. Both teams battling for possession Newmarket pressing up looking for a goal, Hutton ready to break with gaps to exploit at the back. Kinsman lifting in on for Hindley through the middle, Caffarelli coming to close her down clear even as the flag goes up for offside. 

Katie Hayes

  A frantic spell as neither sides gets any meaningful possession, Hayes fouled on the left the ball to be put into the area from deep in high knocked down into Mykhaylechko lays it back for Spiers to strike from range fired wide of the left post. Hutton making changes bringing off Roberts off with Hayley Critchell back on Hindley going over to the right. Slater defends against Kinsman as the Hutton striker drives on with the ball right of the D. Newmarket pressing the ball around the Hutton penalty area, Spiers looking for an opening the door closed in front of her by Knight put out t Hayes on the left her cross swept in caught by Glover.

  Newmarket bring off Caffarelli send on Millie O’Dwyer with the clock starting to run down, Yorko clipping the ball forwards the keeper can come and gather before Corbyn can attack it. Yorko then throwing herself down in front of Kinsman to block her strike as she shifts right across the D. Woolaway getting on down the left now up with Hayley Critchell, Corbyn coming back to defend sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. The throw into Edwards top left corner of the area turns to pick out Kinsman central her low strike straight at the keeper back on her line. 

 Hutton bring Lucy Critchell off late in the game bring Crichton back on. Hindley at the back now seeing the ball back to the keeper to clear as Walker looks to put Corbyn on though to attack. Woolaway getting into the box on the left inside the six yard box Yorko across her trying to defend Joslin coming sliding down to claim the ball, Hutton appeal for a pass back, the decision given Hutton getting a in directed free-kick inside the six yard box left of the goal. A wall covering the near post Boyd plays it to Woolaway to strike a powerful right foot shot over the bar. 

  Newmarket continue to throw the ball forwards looking for a way through Hutton though are an experienced side a keeping things tight through the middle. Kinsman bursting onto the ball right channel stroking a shot over with the game moving into injury time. Newmarket putting a low cross in from the left taken by Glover, Yorko charging down the ball as Hutton counter left. Joslin coming to claim top of her area as Hutton break in the closing seconds. 

Full time Hutton Ladies 4-1 Newmarket Town Women

  Hutton Ladies win the ERWFL League Plate for a 3rd time. Leading 3-1 at the break. Newmarket looking to build on scoring late in the first half pressed well at the start of the 2nd period Glover making a great save. Hutton patient waiting for the chance to score a 4th goal and from there had control of the game could get players up behind the ball, Newmarket finding on way though. Hutton’s using their experience well. Newmarket will rue their luck first half striking the bar twice Hutton taking thier chances getting a 3rd goal from the penalty spot. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of the day. A few performances to mention first, for Newmarket Holly Dryland well at left back winning a number of tackles and defending set-pieces well. Katie Hayes driving on right side getting the ball into some dangerous areas. Antonia Smith making an impact coming into the middle. For Hutton the defence was solid giving little away. Katy Edwards in control of the midfield for much of the first half getting free to spread ball into the wide players. Lucy Critchell superb running the channels and getting into some good attacking positions. The award for me though goes to Victoria Kinsman strong in the air winning the ball setting up the first goal, scoring twice and getting into some fantastic positions moving about the Newmarket back line hard to mark though out.

Hutton Ladies 2022/23 ERWFL League Plate winners

 Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning today’s ERWFL League Plate and making it a 3rd win overall.

  An exciting appetiser for the main event this afternoon, an entertaining contest as you’d expect from the ERWFL, my thanks to both sides for their help today along with Daniel Forde from the ERWFL for the team details, time for some foo then onto the next one…

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Mulbarton Belles Ladies v Norwich City Women

Friday 19th May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

sponsored by Harrod Sport

Ending a busy week watching women’s football with another County Cup Final this time from Norfolk a trip to Carrow Road home of Norwich City FC to watch Mulbarton Belles Ladies v Norwich City Women play for the Women’s Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport. 

Set to be a record crowd for this evening’s event, Mulbarton Belles Ladies reaching their 3rd consecutive county cup final, Norwich City Women dominating the competition in it’s early years looking to win the cup for the 7th time.

This evening’s prize

  Mulbarton Belles Ladies formed just 3 season’s ago had played just 7 competitive games to reach their first county cup final back in 2021 that at the FDC against Norwich the County Cup returning after the upheaval caused by the Covid pandemic. Norwich with an early goal leading 3-0 at the break going on to win 7-0. The pair meeting again in last years competition drawn together at The Nest in the quarter finals, Mulbarton causing an upset knocking Norwich out on penalties after 2-2 draw. Going on to face an all conquering Wymondham Town Ladies in the final back at Carrow Road losing 2-0. Into the final once again Mulbarton face a different Norwich side this time around.

  Mulbarton Belles Ladies have had another successful season a busy end to the campaign, in fact much to their chagrin have a league game on Sunday away to Caister FC Ladies despite playing on Friday evening. That said they’ve got the job done in successfully defending their Division One title won for the 2nd year in a row and have made it a league and cup double by winning the League Plate last Sunday, with a 6-0 over their new Development team. The club continuing to grow with ambitions to test themselves at a higher level, fully embraced by Mulbarton Wanderers FC with the bulk of the old Thorpe United Ladies first team following manager Martin Francis to the club. Captain Rebekah Lake their talisman in attack o often amongst the goals has 25 for the season with both Sophie Jermy and Francesca Catchpole on 15.

  Norwich City Women now under the wing of Norwich City FC with the club taking on the day to day running of the club, ex-WSL player Flo Allen coming in as General Manager, the women’s side enjoying better support, coverage and sponsorship as they look to win promotion from the 4th tier where they had languished towards the wrong end of the table. Have had a marvellous season pushing the leaders for a while eventually clinching a 4th placed finish. A dream come true for the squad as Norwich City Women finally got their opportunity to play at Carrow Road in front of a record breaking crowd of over 7,000 winning against Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women. Defender, Ceri Flye has arguably been one of the best signings in the league too, coming in form Cambridge City Ladies ha been a consist performer at the back for Norwich. Also bringing in midfield duo Rebecca Russell and Katie Knights from Wymondham’s treble winning side, Knights becoming a fans favourite. Natasha Snelling top scorer with 14 goals this campaign. Will be manager Shaun Howes last game in charge of the women’s team as he steps down from the role at the end of the season.

Road to the Final

  Norwich City Women amongst the seeded teams in the County Cup along with Wroxham Women and King’s Lynn. Cup holders Wymondham should have been there too but very sadly after their historic season were to fold. Mulbarton beginning their county cup campaign away to fellow Division One side Caister FC Ladies, hitting the ground running Mulbarton went on to rack up a double figure win with both Rebekah Lake and Ellie Hunter netting a hat-trick. Eloise Peek scoring twice with goas from Molly Ryan, Lucy Lincoln and Francesca Catchpole in an 11-1 win.

  Progress to then for Mulbarton all the way to the quarter finals, a bye in the 2nd Round and an A-W awarded in the 3rd Round. Were at home to another Division One side in the quarter finals taking on Thetford Town Ladies, Rebekah Lake once again amongst the goals with a brace, Emma Farmer and Francesca Catchpole also on target in a 4-0 win. Norwich drawn at home to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the quarter finals struggling in the ERWFL Premier Division, Norwich took a 1-0 lead into the break courtesy of Ellie Smith. Katie Knights doubling the lead on the hour before Norwich rattled in 3 more goals at the end with Ella Gambell making it 3-0. Megan Todd with a late late brace 5-0 the final score.

  Two tier 7 sides into the county cup semi-finals, Mulbarton at home taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Wroxham Women. Had to dig in at times Wroxham unable to find a goal however with Molly Ryan striking to put Mulbarton into the lead proved to be the difference at Mulbarton held out to reach their 3rd successive final. Norwich at home to then Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women, again proved to be stubborn opposition with Ellie Smith’s 10 minute goal the difference right up till the final 20 minutes, Freya Symonds making it 2-0 before another strong finish seeing 3 more goals rattled in with both Smith and Symonds netting again along with Olivia Cook 5-0 the winning margin as Norwich won through to a final at Carrow Road for the first time.

Carrow Road the venue once again for the Women’s County Cup Final the Geoffrey Watling Stand housing the supports overlooking the dugouts. The pitch a carpet as you’d expect offering plenty of width. The two sides out early to have a wander on the pitch, take it all in Mulbarton once again in the home dressing room. Up in the press box once again getting a great view of the action not in my usual spot with a pigeon (who are notoriously poor nest builders) situated on one of the security cameras above. Another warm and sunny day the weather set fair for the final with the crowd building nicely. 

Mulbarton Belles Ladies

 Mulbarton Belles Ladies starting XI – Jo Hooper, Melissa Belsey, Olivia Smith, Lucy Lincoln, Megan Belsey, Alice Smith, Laura Hedtke, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Olivia Mungham-Grey, Aneliese Smith, Francesca Catchpole, Alice Ladbrooke & Emma Farmer.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Alice Parker, Anna Larkins (C), Ceri Flye, Mary Croft, Rebecca Russell, Katie Knights, Ellie Smith, Megan Todd, Kathryn Stanley & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Millie Daviss, Freya Symonds, Ella Gambell, Olivia Cook & Eloise Morgan.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Norfolk FA doing a great job to put on a showpiece event for their county Cup finals, the two sides walking out with their mascots lining up before the crowd, posing for squad pictures before joining together in front of the Norfolk and Waveney Mind charity banner, during Mental Health Awareness week.

  Jo Hooper in goal for Mulbarton with first choice keeper Cara Anderson struggling with a foot injury unable to play. Hooper goalkeeper for Mulbarton’s double winning 7’s side. Mulbarton with a bust schedule playing 5 times in the past fortnight, whereas Norwich a 19 day break since their season ended. A minutes applause before kick-off in appreciation to all those who have passed in the Norfolk footballing community. Mulbarton to get the 2023 final underway wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up in their traditional yellow and green. The ball played long out to the right with Molly Ryan the target, Norwich full back Alice Parker can see the ball out safely for a throw.

Alice Parker

  Norwich get on the attack the ball fed into Ellie Smith moving left spins inside to lift wide to Megan Todd getting on down the right, held up by Mulbarton’s Olivia Smith lays the ball back to captain Anna Larkins getting forwards from right back to swing a deep cross into the are, the ball caught cleanly by Jo Hooper in the Mulbarton goal. Parker on the left inside for Rebecca Russell, prodded on for Ellie Smith, driving for the box tackled by Mulbarton centre back, Megan Belsey. Parker down after the attack a cause for concern, but after treatment is up back on her feet.

  Alice Smith clipping a long ball forwards aiming for captain Rebekah Lake in attack, Ceri Flye winning the ball for Norwich at the back headed on for Russell in midfielder opens up her body to thread the ball on into the area, Hooper with the call coming out behind her defence to claim the ball. Parker getting forwards on the left well for Norwich pushing Mulbarton back her cross cut out by Megan Belsey in the box, back out to Parker, Ryan closing her down the ball gone for a throw. 

Megan Belsey

 Parker pushing on down the left, Melissa Belsey coming to close her down tackling to win the back for Mulbarton, cleared don’t keep in for long with Ellie Smith snapping ack to regain possession for Norwich. Megan Todd taking over on the right bringing the ball inside, Oliva Smith and Lucy Lincoln blocking the shooting opportunity, knocked back to Russell to put low into the box, right side as Ellie Smith looks to steal in behind, a little too much on the ball runs out of play. 

  Megan Belsey helping her twin sister Melissa out as Parker bursts on form the left looking to force her way into the box. Laura Hedtke bringing down Ellie Smith as she drives on central the free-kick given to the left of the circle, flighted into the near post area, Hooper getting up well to catch the ball. Ryan trying to get forwards on the right when she can to support Lake in attack, Alice Smith sending a diagonal pass out into the wing, Mary Croft another ex-Wymondham player joining Norwich this season across from centre back to clear for a throw. The throw back to Melissa Belsey plays a high ball in from the right towards the top of the box won by Flye falls to Ellie Smith turns looking to spring a counter attack, runs into Alice Smith. 

  Norwich pushing on Mulbarton camped in their box as Todd right side lays it back to Russell her low strike in through bodies cross the keeper, batted down by Hooper loose for a moment the defence rush to scramble it clear. Mulbarton penned back, Norwich coming on at will at time the full backs able to overload the flanks. Russell coming across to the left overlapping Parker to whip a dangerous ball into the area, Sophie Jermy up well against Natasha Snelling to win the ball. 

Ellie Smith looing to turn Mulbatorn's Alice Smith

 Pressing down the right Norwich win a corner, put in near side defended knocked behind for a 2nd corner, in higher this time near side met by Kathryn Stanley urns her header wide of the post. A frantic opening 15 minutes Norwich setting their stall out early pushing players on looking to score a high ball into the box from the right sees Stanley send her header over at the far post. Russell putting the ball on for Ellie Smith left channel has Stanley inside the area, the ball onto her feet moves inside, Melissa Belsey with the blocking tackle the ball cleared out to the left a strike rattled in from distance wide past the left post.

  Norwich break on the left Parker racing forwards with the ball, Ellie Smith tracking out into the wing taking the ball on down the line, using the outside of her boot to wrong foot her marker sending a cross in dangerously across goal, Hooper with an instinctive arm gloving the ball behind the onrushing Snelling then getting down to smother the loose ball. The pace of the game in relentless Norwich going for it Mulbarton with few opportunities to get forwards under the cosh, Ryan up with Lake on the right exchange passes with Ryan heading for the by-line, Croft pressing the cross sent behind.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Jo Hooper

  The ball cleared by the Norwich defence falls to Hedtke lining up a strike from distance, Ellie Smith rushing in to charge the ball for Norwich. Stanley and Ellie Smith combining for Norwich in the final third the ball out to Snelling corner of the area her shot on the angle to the near post claimed by Hooper. A free-kick for Mulbarton on half way the ball towards Ryan right of the area looks to head it down across the D into Lake, Croft getting to the ball to clear for Norwich. Russell intercepting the ball for Norwich putting it through for Ellie Smith into the left channel, Megan Belsey in to block top of the area. 

Melissa Belsey

  Larkins putting the cross in form deep on the right sees the ball deflected across the six yard box, Melissa Belsey under pressure from Ellie Smith clearing the ball. Stanley left 25 yards out sending a shoot away fired wide past the far post. Norwich quickly back onto the ball Knights out to Parker bombing on down the left her cross lifted in across the face of goal Todd rising to head the ball looks a certain goal the crowd up but dismayed as it crashes against the bar. Melissa Belsey deflecting the ball behind for a Norwich corner as Parker and Snelling come to the by-line trying to work the ball into the box.

  Players forwards from the back as the corner is fired into the six yard box Flye attacking it, Hooper with the faintest of touches knocking it down into the floor, players scrambling to get to the ball Todd puts it wide taking a knick off a defender for a corner on the right. Flye with her head in her hands with a great chance to open her Norwich account.

 The 2nd corner put high into the area headed out dropping to Stanley her shrike is charged down by Hedtke. The ball put straight back into the area sees Flye bursting in clear in front of goal one on one with the keeper, Hooper down making a blocking save the ball running on behind her as Flye hurdles the keeper looking to get to the ball, so close but can’t wrap her boot around it as it trickles narrowly wide of the post. 

  Alice Smith brings down Stanley conceding a free-kick in an inviting position central 30 yards out. Russell over the ball curls her effort past the wall in on goal but lacks the height or pace to trouble the keeper as Hooper comes across her goal to take it on the bounce. Lake coming deep to win the ball gets on the move through the middle, Ellie Smith quick to close her down tackle and set off another Norwich counter the ball finding Todd running on down the right her cross whipped into the area through everybody. 

Megan Todd

  At times Norwich have everyone bar the keeper inside the Mulbarton half, Flye joining the action bringing the ball on, Mulbarton with everyone bar lake back to defend their area scrapping to hold on. Hunter lunging in to deny Parker as she turns infield. Melissa Belsey out to tackle Parker before she is tripped by Ryan giving away the free-kick wide of the area 25 out, Parker over it herself striking the ball over.

  Remains goalless after half and hour despite Norwich’s onslaught, overloading the wide area Larkins on for Todd her cross in towards Ellie Smith outside six yard box, Megan Belsey winning the challenge. Ellie Smith getting across the pitch popping up on the left and right over with Todd on the right the pair exchanging passes up the line before Todd tees up Russell central 20 yards out smashes her shot over. 

Natasha Snelling with Mulbarton’s Molly Ryan

  Knights bringing the ball in central for Norwich picks out Todd inside the left channel going one way turns back to send a cross into the far post dropping, Snelling racing in meeting it on the volley sends the attempt over. Norwich all over Mulbarton, Lincoln in to block Todd as she comes inside form the right. A high ball put into the box from 25 yards out dropping to Ellie Smith right of goal, Megan Belsey blocking her shot the deflect the ball away for a corner. The corner goes long retrieved by Croft on the left down to Snelling on the by-line fires the cross into the six yard box Todd powering a header down towards goal at the far post, Hooper with a magnificent save diving to her left to push the ball wide.

 A rare attack for Mulbarton as Jermy breaks from a corner putting the ball on for Alice Smith the midfielder looking to send Lake through to attack, Bryony Williams largely a spectator for the first half racing out to the top of her area to clear the ball. Melissa Belsey doing well inside her six yard box defending on Snelling as the ball comes into her from deep. Hooper catching a deflected shot from Todd as she pulls the trigger following a run across the area. 

Kathryn Stanley

 Flye at the back defending a cross from Melissa Belsey from the right, Norwich springing a counter attack, Knights to Todd right her cross flashed in across the face of goal out to the left gathered by Stanley on the left up the line to Parker plays the ball in towards Ellie Smith 10 yards out, down to meet the ball attempts to place a cushioned header inside the near post a good attempt but wide.

 Norwich with a corner on the right as the 1st half moves into stoppage time, in close to Hooper knocked out to the left Croft back to Knights her cross in cleared by Hedtke. Parker left flashing a cross into the box towards Snelling, Melissa Belsey in to block. The half ending with Hooper claiming another curling shot from outside the box. Mulbarton with their backs to the wall going in level with Norwich at the break.

Half-time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 0-0 Norwich City Women

  Quite how is another matter Norwich have been relentless going forwards creating chance after chance, the Mulbarton defence with an epic first half performance along with Hooper in goal. Norwich able to pour players forwards have been camped in the Mulbarton half and will be in the changing room wondering how they’re not in front. Penned back however Mulbarton have been able to offer nothing in attack Lake an isolated figure up top a big ask to keep it up 2nd half. 

 Norwich making a double change at half-time bringing on Freya Symonds and Ella Gambell to replace Todd and Stanley on the flanks. Norwich to get the 2nd half underway the ball lifted out to the right for Symonds, Olivia Smith defending for Mulbarton out for a throw, Norwich push up the throw into Ellie Smith back to Symonds tries to get in back into Smith heading for the by-line Mulbarton turn it behind for a corner.

 GOAL! Larkins to send the corner into the mix across the Mulbarton goal Flye getting her foot up to turn the ball through the defence into the back of the net finally open her Norwich account 1-0 mobbed by her joyous teammates before running over to the bench to celebrate.

Ceri Flye coming over to the bench to celebrate scoring her first Norwich goal

  The break through coming at the start of the 2nd half Norwich getting the goal they had been hunting for the Mulbarton resistance finally broken. Mulbarton respond by getting straight on the attack Jermy putting the ball out to Ryan on the right turns inside top of the area to strike the shot runs wide past the far post. Mulbarton press up a throw won high on the right, Croft defending seeing the ball out for a corner kick. Taken short up the line the shot curled in to the far post cleared by Knights.

  Getting their goal Norwich have settled back into a regular shape no longer pouring players on Symonds on the right finding Ellie Smith down in the corner shifting the ball inside bursts into the area tracking across the goal, from distance appears to be pulled down the crowd certainly think so however little signs of an appeal form Norwich as referee signals play on. Ellie Smith cutting into the box winning a corner for Norwich on the right the initial ball defended by Lincoln comes back to the corner taker for a 2nd attempt at the cross long past the far post Gambell headers over.

   An injury concern for Mulbarton, Melissa Belsey down inside the box, needing treatment looks uncomfortable as she rises to her feet. Ellie Smith surging on to the by-line right, Lincoln getting hold of the ball to clear for Mulbarton. The Norwich crowd giving the Mulbarton subs some grief as they warm up. Belsey can’t continue needs to come off, Mulbarton bringing on Emma Farmer at left back. Megan Belsey clearing on the line as Ellie Smith stealing onto the ball inside the box drives to the by-line wide right to shoot. Norwich making a change bringing Eloise Morgan.

Ellie Smith

  Straight into the action defending on the Jermy in the corner left as Mulbarton win a throw the ball off Jermy for a goal kick. With Norwich sitting back after scoring Mulbarton can get players on to support the attacks Alice Smith on for Lake outside the box to the right knocks it down into Jermy central, coming inside turns down the opportunity to strike the ball instead attempting to dink it into  Lake’s path as she moves towards goal herself the ball snatched up by Williams. An injury concern for Norwich now with Croft down inside the box. Smith lifting the ball into Gambell breaking on down the left her cross whipped into the box claimed well by Hooper. Croft can’t play on, taken off Norwich send on club captain, Millie Daviss only recently returned to the squad after a long injury lay off.

Club captain, Millie Daviss

  Gambell nipping into the box after the ball after a mis cue from Farmer, luckily Lincoln able to get to it first to clear. Knights finding room in the middle plays the ball into Symonds 20 out right of the area fires her shot wide across goal. Ellie Smith continues to pop up all over the place darting to the left looking for Gambell, played on, Farmer getting back at her well for Mulbarton. Olivia Smith on the opposite side tackling Symonds as Larkins lifts the ball on. Snelling onto the ball for Norwich left inside the area puts the cross in low to the far post Symonds onto it looks to be in the clear shooting on the angle drags the effort wide across the face of goal.

GOAL! 70 minutes on the clock Norwich pounce for their 2nd goal Ellie Smith top of the area playing a one two with Symonds inside the area right of goal on the angle sends the ball racing across goal out to the far side on a plate for Knights running in unchallenged  to smash the ball home from close range wheeling away in joy runs over to manager Shaun Howes to celebrate 0-2

Katie Knights doubling Norwich’s lead

  Doubling the lead Norwich looking comfortable as Flye sends the ball into Symonds on the right her cross squared into the box cut out by Megan Belsey. Hunter bringing the ball on for Mulbarton on for Alice Smith looks up to pass as Lake spins away into the left channel, Flye seeing the pass all the way intercepting bringing the ball down off her chest. Megan Belsey getting her head on the ball to win it against Snelling inside the six yard box as Symonds delivers the cross from the right. Norwich taking Snelling off bringing on Olivia Cook.

Mulbarton captain, Rebekah Lake

 Knights with the ball out to Symonds wide right her cross in taken well by Hooper rising to claim with two runners bearing down on her. Gambell moving with the ball left to right winning Norwich a corner. Flye again attacking it inside the box, defended knocked outside, Morgan running onto the shot hitting it from all of 35 yards drilled wide of the right post. Norwich press through the right channel Ellie Smith tacking the ball on tackled by Olivia Smith outside the box.

  Lake seeing the ball across her turns to drive into the left channel threatening to get away from Flye the defender sticks out a foot to take the ball away from her out for a throw. Olivia Smith in to tackle Symonds on the right the ball cleared Morgan soon winning it back for Norwich into the final 15 minutes players tiring alot of effort put in. Olivia Smith being kept on her toes by Symonds winning the ball cleared into the middle helped on to Ryan on the right, Flye across to tackle halting the attack. 

Freya Symonds

  A double change for both sides Stanley and Russell back on for Norwich replacing Ellie Smith and Knights. Mulbarton bringing of Hedtke and Hunter sending on Francesca Catchpole and Alice Ladbrooke with the game heading into the final 5 minutes of regular play. Gambell up with Morgan right winning a corner the ball flashing in across goal very nearly deflected into the net for an own goal, Hopper getting a hand to the ball to save turn wide for another corner. Put in from the left cleared out central picked up by Parker taking the ball right turns to shoot on the angle fired over the bar. 

 

 Mulbarton with another double change bringing on Olivia Mungham-Grey and Aneliese Smith replacing Ryan and Olivia Smith. Catchpole joining Lake in the attack looking to get on with the ball, Flye on half way coming to close her down. The ball into Lake right outside the box sends it inside to Catchpole tracking in central moving inside looking to shoot, Daviss throws herself in to block the ball. Jermy blocking up the other end inside the box as Gambell looks to get onto the end of Symonds cross from the right. Parker coming off for Norwich, Todd back on as 8 minutes of additional time are signalled.

  Daviss putting the ball into Gambell in the left channel driving forwards can’t force her way through on goal. The game stretched Mulbarton giving it a go late on Flye out to force Lake wide clear the ball Norwich counter the ball up through the middle Hopper out of her box to clear. 

GOAL! Mulbarton losing possession from a free-kick the ball sent out to Symonds away on the right wing players breaking forwards to get into the box the cross comes in along the face of goal Cook arriving to turn it into the back of the net to seal the win 0-3. 

Olivia Cook scoring for Norwich (photo credit Norwich City Women)

 Cook up with Symonds on the right in attack, Mungham-Grey winning the ball for Mulbarton cleared, Catchpole giving away a cynical foul to earn herself a yellow card. The free-kick right of the circle into the top of the area cleared by Lincoln falls to Russell central her strike from range isn’t too far over the bar. Cook striking across the ball from the top of the area right side, Hooper getting her gloves to the ball, barely manages to claim it.

Full time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 0-3 Norwich City Women

  Norwich City Women win their 7th Norfolk Women’s County Cup, a victory for Shaun Howes in his final game in charge in front of a county cup record crowd of 2690 at Carrow Road too. After a relentless first half where they did everything but score, Norwich struck early in the 2nd half from a corner with Ceri Flye netting her 1st goal for the club to put them into the lead. Mulbarton’s stubborn resistance finally broken they continued to work hard in defence to keep the score down, with Norwich settling back a little Mulbarton had a few opportunities to get forwards the 2nd goal coming with 20 minutes left Norwich in control settling the game in stoppage time with a 3rd goal from Olivia Cook. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, can hardly go against the popular opinion on this one but first to mention a few of the stand out performers. Credit to the entire Mulbarton side for a battling defensive display particularly the defence, Lucy Lincoln, Olivia Smith at left back and a phenomenal display from the Belsey twins Megan and Melissa winning the ball, coming to block and dealing with the intensity of the game. Ceri Flye getting that all important first goal for Norwich excellent in defence too. Alice Parker getting on up the left to support the attack. Katie Knights with some great passes scoring too. Megan Todd attacking from the right getting into some good positions. Freya Symonds taking over on the right doing a great job too 2nd half, Ellie Smith was just everywhere causing no end of problems with her movement getting into some fantastic positions. The award tough goes to Mulbarton goalkeeper Jo Hooper. A magnificent performance goalkeeping inside a packed box with players in close giving you little tie to react pulled of some wonderful saves.

Mulbarton with a battling display in good spirits after the game

 Congratulations to Norwich City Women on winning this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup will mean so much more to win it at Carrow Road.

The Norwich players giving manager Shaun Howes a guard of honour in his final game in charge

Norwich City Women 2022/23 Norfolk Women’s County Cup Winners

  The 4th game in 4 nights over 18,000 words written, two county cup finals both featuring a 7th tier side, who did themselves proud. Two contrasting grassroots league games two but enjoyed them all as happy standing at the side of a playing field pitch as I am up in the press box of a Championship stadium. Norfolk FA putting on another great occasion, my thanks for all their help and for allowing me to cover the game. An evening off now before we do it all again on Sunday with another cup final double bill… season’s almost done.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Needham Market Women v Bungay Town Ladies

Tuesday 16th May

Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final

sponsored by MH Goals 

 A Tuesday evening trip down the A12 to Colchester United FC’s JobServe Stadium to watch the final of this season’s Suffolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by MH Goals. Needham Market Women reaching their 4th final in 5 years taking on Bungay Town Ladies reaching the final for the first time in their history.

 A huge gap between the clubs, Needham market overwhelming favourites with a strong debut season playing in the ERWFL Premier Division, Bungay Town Ladies two leagues further down the pyramid playing in Norfolk Women’s Division One.

This evening’s prize

  The competition dominated by Ipswich Town Women since the Suffolk and Norfolk County Cups became separate competitions in 2010. Having featured in 9 of the last 11 finals victorious in all including a 7 game streak before withdrawing from the competition as their excellent growth saw the club reach the 3rd tier of the women’s game in 2021. AFC Sudbury Ladies the only other side to have won the competition in that time. The 2022 final held between a new AFC Sudbury Women’s side and Needham Market Women both emerging as leading clubs within Suffolk enjoying a rapid growth, Sudbury coming on top to beat Needham Market 3-1to complete a treble that season.

  Needham Market Women growing rapidly since they burst onto the scene 5 season’s ago, reaching the County Cup final in their debut season, have since gone on to appear in two more finals while reaching the last 4 in the other. Back to back finals against Ipswich and AFC Sudbury will be aiming to go all the way this time around. Rising through the women’s football pyramid achieving promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division last season, have had a strong debut season in the 5th tier, proving to be a competitive force in an already strong league, talked about as potential title challengers, are on course for a top 4 finish currently 3rd in the table. The women’s set-up part of the academy at Needham Market with a Development side playing in the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division. Striker Molly Hall their top scorer netting 16 goals so far this season, Lois Balfour scoring 13 with Lina Nagib and Eva Hubbard both on 9.

  Bungay Town Ladies making history reaching the County Cup Final for the first time in their history. A long established club playing in step 7 of the women’s football pyramid, competing in Norfolk Women’s Division One under Graham Purling, have produced several quality and talented players that have gone on to achieve success at a higher level. With Purling leaving the women’s side a turbulent spell followed with the side struggling a bit losing players. Darren Renwick heading up a new management team for this season Bungay have bounced back well building a squad with a great blend of experience and youth, competitive haven’t always been helped with injuries and again have a few carrying knocks on the bench, there fine cup run cementing their return to challenge at the top end of the table. Lauren Goulder top scorer so far this season with 13 goals. Selina Rowland finding the back of the net for 10 goals while new signing Zoe Cossey has 6 goals from 6 appearances.

Road to the Final

  A bye for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st Round of the County Cup, Needham Market Women were drawn away to Suffolk Women’s Championship side, Leiston St Margarets Ladies. 3 League between the sides Needham Market were too strong as they piled on the goals with Molly Hall, Ellie Rossiter and Paige Wakefield all scoring hat-tricks in a 15-0 win with both Lina Nagib and Charlotte McGrath scoring a brace each a goal each too for Lois Balfour and Abbie Fisher.

  No seeding in the Suffolk Women’s County Cup and therefore the potential for the big guns to get drawn together in the early round, exactly what happened in the 2nd Round as we saw last season’s finalists and the two competition favourites drawn together Needham Market hosting AFC Sudbury Women, headed over to Bloomfields that afternoon and was treated to a classic. Sudbury opening the scoring on 20 minutes with Holly Kennard on target the visitors looking strong, Needham Market nevertheless got themselves back on level terms through Jo Brawn. Evie Creaton putting Sudbury back into the lead before Brawn again equalised for Needham Market. Creaton with 2nd goal late in the 1st half to see Sudbury lead 3-2. A different story 2nd half as Needham Market soon got on the front foot Paige Wakefield scoring a thunderbolt to fire them level for a 3rd time. Ellie Rossiter put in on goal to put Needham Market into the lead, Molly Hall securing the win with a 40 yard lob at the death. Bungay progressing with ease to drawn away to Championship bottom side Halesworth Town Women winning the match 7-0.

  Into the quarter finals, Needham Market drawn away to play Beccles Town Ladies struggling for results in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Goals through the side Needham Market were leading 3-0 at half-time before going onto win the game 7-0 with Hall again netting a hat-trick. Jodie Sharp bagging herself a brace with Eva Hubbard, Lois Balfour and Nicole Pannifer all getting on the scoresheet. Bungay drawn away to Ipswich Vale Exiles Ladies who would go on to win the Suffolk Women’s Championship in their debut season in women’s football. Selina Rowland on fire that day the attacking midfielder scoring 4 goals with Lauren Goulder finding the back of the net for 2 more in a 6-1 victory.

  Neutral venues for the semi-finals in Suffolk, Needham Market taking on East Bergholt United Ladies from the league below at Ipswich Wanderers FC. Needham Market again amongst the goals with Lina Nagib and Jodie Sharp both netting 2 goals, Molly Hall and Mia Etheridge with a goal apiece as they reached a 3rd successive final with a 6-1 win. Had to wait to see who their opponents would be with the other semi-final falling foul to the elements delayed with Bungay taking on Suffolk Premier Division Champions, Brettvale Ladies themselves reaching the County Cup Final 3 seasons ago. Played at Walsham le Willows, goals from Zoe Cossey and Selina Rowland saw Bungay make history as won 2-0 to reach the final.

  The JobServe Community Stadium, home of League Two side, Colchester United FC, once again hosting the Suffolk Women’s County Cup Final, a popular stadium for the women’s game with Essex FA also holding their women’s county cup final here and it has of course hosted the Lionesses in the past. A great experience for the players the main stand behind the tunnel and dugout being used. Needham Market bringing some noise with them with a drummer looking to liven up the crowd. A pleasant day the evening warm with the two sides out on the pitch warming up, dry with no rain forecast.

Needham Market Women

Needham Market Women starting XI – Daisie Gibbs, Nicole Pannifer, Eva Hubbard, Laura Bloomfield, Ele Catchpole, Paige Wakefield, Mia Etheridge, Lina Nagib, Ellie Rossiter, Lois Balfour (C) & Molly Hall. Subs – Charlotte McGrath, Jo Brawn, Jodie Sharp, Poppy Nunn & Niamh Thomas.

Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Maddie Flatman, Porsha Renwick, Erin Galer, Ruby Roos, Ciera Flatt, Charnelle Riggall (C), Gemma Foster, Selina Rowland, Lucy Hood, Zoe Cossey & Lauren Goulder. Subs – Lyndsey Adams, Lauren Purling, Sofia Serghiou, Poppy Fenn & Amber Leeks.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Needham Market without goalkeeper Daniele Clarke for much of the season out with an Achilles injury. Midfielder Abbie Fisher also a long term casualty with an ACL tear. Daisy Gibbs joining the squad doing well in place of Clarke in goal in her first season in adult football. Bungay picking up a couple of knocks at the weekend in their 3-3 draw away to Caister FC Ladies, Lauren Purling and defender Lyndsey Adams hamstring and ankle respectfully amongst the substitutes. Suffolk FA and the staff at Colchester putting on a show with the teams led out flagbearers either side, lined up and introduced to the guests of honour, Matt Harrod of sponsors MH Goals and Kirsty Smith, Suffolk FA’s Football Development Officer. Both squad getting a picture with the cup before the game… only one will be lifting it though.

  Needham Market wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts to get the first half underway with Bungay (also known as The Black Dogs) lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into Wakefield in midfield put back to the defence, Needham Market keeping possession early on playing the ball across the back patient, across to the left played on for captain, Lois Balfour breaking on down the touch line sends the ball inside for Lina Nagib 20 yards out connects with the shot fired in towards goal coming straight at Bungay goalkeeper Maddie Flatman at a comfortable height brought down and claimed.

  Bungay winning a free-kick on halfway, don’t commit too many players forwards as the ball it launched up towards the top of the area, Mia Etheridge heading the ball clear for Needham Market push forwards a great diagonal ball releasing Ellie Rossiter to race in clear on the right side, pace travelling inside to the corner of the area pulls her shot wide past the far post. Eva Hubbard pushing up on the left attempting to play a long range pass into the attacks the ball won by Bungay central defender, Ceira Flatt. 

Bungay defender, Ceira Flatt

  Selina Roland bringing the ball on through the middle for Bungay has captain Charnelle Riggall ahead of her the ball rolled into her feet looks to hold off Nagib as she turns inside 25 yards out, Nagib getting a foot on the ball to win the ball. Zoe Cossey having been at Ipswich herself has played with several of the Needham market players previously with the club, picking up the ball 30 yards out drives forwards, stopped by Ele Catchpole at the back for Needham Market. Rossiter showing good pace out on the right a ready outlet as Needham Market look to get in behind the Bungay defence a cross from the right cleared by Gemma Foster.

  Hubbard coming into the midfield onto the ball has a go from 30 yards out sent over the crossbar. Needham Market slow in their build up happy to move the ball about a large pitch the ball being stroked from left to right. Attacking down the flanks a cross coming into the box from the left cleared by Ruby Roos for Bungay. 

 Needham Market push on through the middle Etheridge laying the ball out to Rossiter wide right, held up by Bungay’s Erin Galer, rolls it back up the line for Nicole Pannifer send back in central for Wakefield forwards into Etheridge top of the D puts it through for Rossiter to attack inside the box, Flatt blocking, the ball cleared out to the left of the area the shot from distance struck over. 10 minutes played Needham Market probing creating a few chances in front of goal, Bungay working hard to close them down the ball being sprayed about the pitch, Balfour attempting to slide Rossiter through from the right, but the flag goes up against her.

  Moments later Balfour succeeds in sending Molly Hall clear of the defence central after the ball, Flatman though rushing out to the top of her area getting to the ball first launching it clear. The pace of the game controlled by Needham Market with possession of the ball, Etheridge from the left curling a cross onto the roof of the net. Rossiter bursting on down the right to get after a long diagonal ball into the corner from the by-line sends a cross in near side Hall helping it on into Nagib on the penalty spot places her shot straight at the keeper.

Lina Nagib on the attack for Needham Market

  The Bungay defence back inside their box defending a Balfour’s high ball from the right drops for Nagib left, held up well by Roos inside the box, Hubbard running on to support, Roos stretching for the ball does well to the clear. Cossey looking to hold the ball up up top for Bungay closely marked turn her defender can turn to attack Needham Market regaining possession out to Rossiter on the right races on her cross squared into the area cleared by Roos.

  Rowland putting the ball into Cossey 30 yards out again closely marked this time however wriggles free turning right to pull the trigger, the shot clipped in towards goal, straight at Gibbs, gets down it claim it. Bungay finding a little joy in the middle as Foster puts the ball on for Rowland to fire forwards into Cossey, free 20 yards out looks to move inside before dragging the ball back with her left foot to turn and strike with her right a rising effort, again Gibbs it behind brings the shot down safely.

Molly Hall challenging for the ball on Bungay’s Selina Rowland

  A couple for chances for Bungay giving them encouragement with 20 minutes on the clock. Flatt making a timely interception at the back as Hubbard coming inside form the left looks to send the ball into Etheridge pulling into the right channel. Needham Market strong on the left the ball from Nagib into Balfour near post attempts to lay it back out into the middle of the box, Galer getting a boot on it to clear for Bungay. 

Erin Galer getting to the ball before Ellie Rossiter

 Flatman with a great save diving down to glance the ball wide of her left post as Pannifer strikes the ball in low and fast from 30 yards out, a corner for Needham Market. Flung into the mix in front of goal, a foul spotted by referee Tom Ling as Galer goes down. Hubbard getting on well with the ball for Needham Market left side flashing a cross wide across the face of goal. Roos again dealing with a ball lifted into the area from deep.

 GOAL! Needham Market have been knocking the break through finally coming in the 25th minute as they open the scoring, Wakefield in the middle playing a great ball through for Etheridge breaking on into the right channel in behind the defence into the box closing in on the six yard box fires her shot across the keeper into the bottom corner wheeling away in celebration 1-0.

Mia Etheridge celebrates after opening the scoring for Needham Market (photo credit Hannah Parnell)

 Bungay give the ball away from the restart Rossiter surging away with it on the right threatening to go all the way the Bungay defence recovering well the ball fed inside cut by Roos played back into Flatman to kick clear. Bungay falling behind looking to push on Riggall winning the ball in the middle up into Goulder shifts it inside for Cossey, Laura Bloomfield in to clear it for Needham Market at the back. Etheridge making some great forward runs for Needham Market into the right channel taking the ball all the way to the by-line before cutting a ball back across the face of goal, Balfour in at the far post the flag raised against her Flatman claims.

  Bungay continue to close down the ball in the middle, Needham Market though keeping the pitch wide Rossiter fed the ball on the right taking it on sends a cross flashing through the six yard box out to the left retrieved by Hubbard fired a stinging ball in to the near post, Etheridge there but coming at her fast can get an instinctive touch turns the ball wide. Half an hour played Needham Market pushing on down the flanks, Rossiter into the corner held up by Galer shifts the ball back up the line to wrap her foot around the cross in central Roos intercepts charged down going behind for the corner. A inswinging delivery put in high at the near post Flatman up well to get a glove on the ball glove it on across the box her defence clearing. 

  Rossiter away on the right for Needham Market sending another inviting ball across the face of the Bungay goal, Balfour coming onto it turns it over from close range at the far post. Riggall and Rowland scrapping for possession in the middle for Bungay on for Cossey, is bundled over. Rowland with a turn and hit from 30 yards out striking the ball on target, Gibbs seeing it all the way across her goal to catch the dropping ball. Etheridge with another dynamic run through the left channel getting onto the pass from Wakefield, running on Roos on her shoulder pressing her gets a low shot away but not troubling Flatman, down low to claim.

Bungay goalkeeper, Maddie Flatman

  Nagib getting the ball into her feet left corner of the area takes it on, Porsha Renwick stepping in to tackle for Bungay. The Bungay defence under pressure but battling to keep the score down Hubbard away on the left the cross long into the six yard box Hall rising at the far post not quite able to get her head to it drops into Rossiter wide right on the angle drives the ball into the side netting baking a knick off a defender corner awarded. 

Zoe Cossey holding off Mia Etheridge

 Riggall putting the ball into Cossey in attack turns sending it on for Goulder, caught a little flat footed, gives Gibbs time to come out to the top of her area and claim the ball. The game heading into stoppage time just a minute to be played, Catchpole putting the ball on for Wakefield in the middle picks out Balfour left of the area 20 yards out lays it into Nagib on the flanks her cross into the near post won by Flatt for Bungay. Bungay with one last crack at goal as they win a free-kick inside the Needham Market half cleared back to Riggall has a go from distance the ball high over the crossbar.

Half-time Needham market Women 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies

  Needham Market leading by a single Mia Ethridge goal at the break. Creating chances could and maybe should have been more, manager Warren Lewis-Claxton not looking overly happy as they head into the changing room. No doubt in control of the game moving the ball well if anything Needham Market have been wasteful in front of goal, getting forwards well lacking a clinical edge and no doubt will be looking to change that in the 2nd half. Bungay despite trailing will be pleased with how the first half has gone working hard to close the ball down stretched with Needham Market getting the ball across the park have defended well Flatman making a great save. while creating a few opportunities of their own.

 No changes for either side at the break Bungay to kick-off the and half played back into Rowland lifts it forwards into Cossey, Catchpole in to defend for Needham Market. Bloomfield getting back to defend on Goulder in attack as the defender is sold short on the pass at the back as the striker looks to take the ball forwards. 

Laura Bloomfield

 Nagib out left on the move with the ball for Needham Market on for Balfour to cross into the near post Hall the target, Roos into challenge clearing the ball for Bungay. 

 GOAL! Needham Market pressing forwards attacking down the left Rossiter sending the cross into the six yard box Hall rising in the middle connecting with the header her attempt crashing down off the crossbar bouncing on the line scrambled clear out to the right, players rushing on Pannifer latching onto the ball bursting into the area and smashing a shot on the angle low and hard past the keeper 2-0.

Nicole Pannifer striking home Needham market’s 2nd goal (photo credit Ben Pooley)

 Needham Market finding their clinical edge just 2 minutes into the 2nd half to double their lead. Pannifer getting forwards on the right now laying the ball forwards for Hall top of the area, Roos in on her close to defend, Wakefield looking to take on the loose ball 25 yards out, Riggall tracking back on her with a great tackle for Bungay  as they look to get the ball forwards themselves.

Bungay captain, Charnelle Riggall

 GOAL! Won at the back Needham Market are quick to turn play around and hit Bungay on the counter attack the defence pressed high, Wakefield plays a superb pass in behind for Hubbard racing away to the left, taking it on into the box, strikes the ball low across the keeper into the bottom corner 3-0.

Eva Hubbard scoring Needham Market’s 3rd goal

Eva Hubbard

  Bungay undone by two quickfire goals at the start of the 2nd half, make a change bringing off Renwick with Poppy Fenn coming on. Rowland finding Goulder in the left channel for Bungay 25 yards out attempts to lift the ball across he area to Cossey on the right, Hubbard defending for Needham Market 

 GOAL! Needham Market hit Bungay on the counter again another great through ball seeing Nagib clear in behind on the left this time comes infield with the ball looking for an opening as she moves across the D, strikes the ball in towards the left post rising the ball smashes against the inside of the post and is deflected across goal o land inside the net on the right 4-0.

Lina Nagib’s shot in off the post to make it 4

  3 quick goals in an 8 minute burst at the start of the 2nd half seeing Needham Market blow Bungay away making up for the chances wasted in the first half a clinical start to the 2nd period seeing the ball buried into the back of the net with venom. How will Bungay respond will no doubt be shell shocked need to steady the ship as Needham Market come again down the left flank Nagib though offside as she goes to attack the cross at the far post colliding with the keeper, Flatman stays down needing treatment, both sets of players coming over to the benches to take on fluids. 

Needham Market captain, Lois Balfour

  Cossey stealing in on the ball central, drives forwards letting fly from 20 yards out her shot swerving away to the left coming at Gibbs at a comfortable height, wraps her gloves around the ball. 

 GOAL! Needham Market extending the score line in the 58th minute as Rossiter is sent clear on the right to take the ball on into the box closing in on goal strikes it hard on the angle to drive the ball home 5-0.

Ellie Rossiter through to score Needham Market’s 5th goal (photo credit Ben Pooley)

Bungay on the ropes pushed back, Flatt in to close down Ethridge as she looks to charge into the box with the ball on the left out for a throw in. Hubbard taking the ball on from Nagib left taking it down the line into the box attempting to cut it back up to Nagib, Rowland back to tackle for Bungay. A double change for Needham Market Charlotte McGrath and Poppy Nunn coming on with Wakefield and Hubbard coming off. 

  Needham Market pressing in the final 3rd the ball into Nagib in the left channel powers on with the ball cutting inside to shoot the ball angled in cross the keeper, Flatman saving pushing the ball out to the right. Etheridge playing the ball out to Nunn on the left drives on, Fenn on her shoulder putting her under pressure as she enters the box her strike put into the side netting. A triple switch for Needham Market with 22 minutes left to play, Nagib, Rossiter and Hall coming off, Niamh Thomas, Jodie Sharp and Jo Brawn coming on. 

Bungay defender, Ruby Roos

Needham Market winning a free-kick the ball played out to the right, Etheridge bursting on with the ball shooting on the angle the ball into held by Flatman at her near post. Bungay making a change bring on Lauren Purling for Hood. Etheridge pulling right coming inside top of the area, Foster closing her down has Pannifer racing on wide playing the ball out to her the cross in from deep claimed by the keeper. 

  Bungay feed the ball into Goulder getting half a yard on the Needham Market defence central pushing for the area hesitates not getting a shot away as Catchpole gets back on her to lunge in with a leg to tackle take the ball away to the left and clear. Needham Market with a corner on the right put into the mix headed out of the area by Roos who then blocks the follow up strike from range. Catchpole playing the ball forwards for Nunn running away on the left her cross in chested down by Roos and cleared.

  Bungay regrouping well after Needham market’s onslaught at the start of the 2nd half bring off Rowland, sending on Sophia Serghiou. Brawn sends Nunn away on the left as she races past her on the overlap getting down to the by-line to flash a cross into the box in at Balfour quickly does well to lay it back for Sharp racing in to attack her shot fired straight at the keeper high, Flatman instinctive getting her arms up to knock it down into the ground and grab up into her body. A free-kick for Needham Market out wide on the right, McGrath down with an injury can’t continue, Nagib sent back on. 

 GOAL! Needham Market add a 6th goal from the resulting free-kick the ball lifted in long across the face of goal red shirts rushing in to attack it Etheridge getting the telling touch to flick it on into the corner of the net 6-0.

Mia Etheridge scoring Needham Market’s 6th

  Into the final 7 minutes, Catchpole on for Brawn left turns to attack, Fenn getting back on her to challenge for Bungay. Bungay making another change bringing off Foster for Amber Leeks, playing outfield is an experienced goalkeeper in her own rights and interestingly played in goal for Needham Market in their first County Cup final appearance. Needham Market pushing on in attack Bungay tiring continue to work hard, Fenn stopping Nagib getting away on the left. 

Bungay attacker, Lauren Goulder

 Riggall getting the ball into Purling on for Goulder up top lays the ball out wide right for Fenn to lift a high ball into the far post, Gibbs seeing it safely into her gloves as Leeks closes in. Cossey very nearly pulling a goal back for Bungay late in the game as Goulder hooks the ball on for her to race onto central, a strong run before striking a low shot to Gibbs’ left, the keeper scrambling across her goal the ball though narrowly wide of the post. 

 Into the closing stages Nagib curling a shot wide of the right post as she comes inside form the left. Sharp trying her luck from range as the game moves into stoppage time. Brawn on the ball 25 yards out left of goal curling a shot wide of the far post. Nunn flagged offside as Catchpole sends the ball on from the back. Cossey seeing the ball into feet turns and drives for the Needham Market box right of the D, the defence has seen enough as 4 players converge to close her down. Brawn with one last effort flagged offside in the D as she strikes the ball from the right on the volley wide. Needham Market celebrate as they win their 1st County Cup.

Full time Needham Market Women 6-0 Bungay Town Ladies

  A 3 goal burst at the start of the 2nd half blowing Bungay out of the water, clinical in front of goal taking their chances, in control of the game throughout getting forwards well using the width spreading play. Adding a 5th and 6th goal to secure their 1st County Cup win and will be hungry for more. Bungay can certainly be proud of themselves working hard conceding just a single goal in the first half. The defence under pressure putting in some great blocks and tackles. The opening to the 2nd half putting them on the back foot but regrouped doing what they could to get forwards creating a couple of good opportunities.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A strong performance for Needham Market in attack a battling performance from Bungay in defence. Goalkeeper Maddie Flatman with a couple for good saves and positioning to frustrate Needham market in the 1st half. Ciera Flatt and Ruby Roos doing well at centre back winning the ball and putting in the blocks. Zoe Cossey in attack doing what she could with limited possession to turn and attack the defence. For Needham Market , Eva Hubbard got forwards well to support the attack and set up players, taking her goal well. As did Ellie Rossiter out on the right her pace causing Bungay issues all game a ready outlet going forwards. Paige Wakefield finding her range in midfield with some great assistants. The award goes to Mia Etheridge, opening the scoring made some fantastic runs into the channels, getting about the pitch winning the ball.

Needham Market Women 2022/23 Suffolk Women’s County Cup Winners

 Congratulations to Needham Market Women on winning this season’s and their 1st Suffolk Women’s County Cup.

  Another enjoyable final held at the JobServe Community Stadium, my thanks to Suffolk FA for their help and hospitality this evening put on a great event. Thanks to for photographers Hannah Parnell and Ben Pooley for the additional pictures used. The drive home not so much fun with the A12 being closed yet again, but got home safely, back into Suffolk again on Wednesday for some action from the Suffolk Women’s Premier Division a busy end to the season but wouldn’t have it any other way.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women v UEA FC Women

Sunday 14th May

Norfolk Women’s League Cup Final

Time for a quick bite to eat before moving onto the 2nd of today’s finals the Norfolk Women’s League Cup being contested by Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women and UEA FC Women.

 The third of three women’s finals taking place today with the League Plate and 7’s League Cup Finals earlier now onto the senior cup competition, the 11’s League Cup, the cloud lifting with some welcome sunshine warming things up.

This afternoon’s prize

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women victorious in the League Plate Final last season going all the way this time around looking to lift the League Cup, hoping to win some silverware to end what has been a successful season, pipped to the Division One title by Mulbarton Belles Ladies despite leading the way for much of the season two games against their main rivals to end the season proving the difference. Ambitions to test the squad at a higher level have applied for regional football along with Mulbarton and based on my knowledge of the 6th tier both would certainly be a competitive force. Shanice Sutton the top scorer for Dussindale & Hellesdon and 2nd highest scorer in the league netting 32 goals so far from 18 appearances with Vitoria Leyer on target 17 times from 13 games played. Plenty of goals from the rest of the squad too with Dussindale & Hellesdon averaging 4.6 goals scored per game throughout the season.

  UEA (University of East Anglia) FC Women re establishing their women’s side last season, with a strong campaign in Division Two finishing runners-up behind Caister FC Ladies to earn promotion to Division One. Hit the ground running this season winning 5 of their opening 6 league games showing great form also knocking Mulbarton Belles Ladies out of the League Cup. Have been hampered by injuries and availability at times since and the 2nd half of the season has proved a challenge have slipped down the table after a run of 9 straight defeats in the league. Have fought hard to turn thing’s around saving their best results for the cup and with 2 league games left after today’s final will be aiming to finish the season on a high. Ella Burnley their leading goal scorer firing home 12 goals so far this season from 19 games, with Freya Fuller one behind on 11 from the 12 games she has featured in.

Road to the Final

  Dussindale & Hellesdon receiving a home win in the first round of the competition over Mulbarton Belles Ladies Development. UEA drawn away to Division Two side, FC Viking & Valkyries Women, proving too strong for their opponents racking up a 7-0 score line to progress into the 2nd Round.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon again progressing without kicking a ball as they were awarded the away win over Division Two side Gorleston FC Ladies who were soon to sadly fold. UEA handed a tough tie away to one of the cup favourites Mulbarton, 1st half goals from Ella Burnley and Rachel Lawrence proving to be enough as UEA worked hard in the 2nd half to keep Mulbarton from coming back winning 2-1.  

  Into the last 8 and Dussindale & Hellesdon were away to fellow Division One side long Stratton Women for the 2nd successive Sunday in cup competitions a 3-0 win on a cold January day to see them advance in the County Cup have enjoyed so entertaining games with Long Stratton and this one proving no different, Chelsea Brister and Shanice Sutton on target in the first half to see Dussindale & Hellesdon leading 2-1 at half-time, Long Stratton coming back to equalise to make it 2-2 send the tie into extra-time the hosted then seeing Sam Walker sent off with Dussindale & Hellesdon taking full advantage of the player advantage with Sutton going on to score twice, get a hat-trick with Georgina Belton adding on at the death to see them through to the last 4 5-2. UEA away to Bungay Town Ladies, Ella Burnley scoring twice in the first half doing the damage to see UEA 2-0 up after a strong half, Bungay improving in the 2nd period but could find no way through a stubborn UEA defence as the visitors booked their place in the semi-finals.

  A strong line up in the last 4, Dussindale & Hellesdon at home to Caister FC Ladies the two meeting in last season’s League Plate final, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning 6-0, proved to be a potent in front of goal this time around too, Victoria Leyer getting them off to a flying start scoring in the 1st minute adding a 2nd in the 2nd minute, Caister pulling a goal back to make it 2-1 at the break. Leyer going onto complete her hat-trick early in the 2nd period. A strong finish seeing 3 more goals added in the final 20 minutes with Georgina Belton, Betty Booker and Tallulah Bell all on target in a 6-1 win. UEA at home to Thetford Town Ladies were leading 1-0 in the match before the visitors came back with a devastating spell in the 2nd half to win the game 3-1… however ultimately Thetford much to their disappointment were adjudged to have fielded an ineligible player seeing the semi-final being replayed. No less drama 2nd time around, Mia Bambury and Kamile Omelevlclute scoring for Thetford, Ella Burnley and Cassandra Piejko scoring for UEA to send the tie into extra-time and then penalties, UEA edging a tense shootout 7-6 to reach the League Cup Final.

  Aylsham FC’s Youngs Park hosting the NWGFL Finals Days for the 2nd successive season. The large clubhouse newly build surrounded by numerous grass pitches the main pitch with a barrier all round, the BBQ in full swing now helped myself to a cheeseburger and portion of chips from the kitchen, much needed fuel before sitting up for the 2nd final of the day. The cloud burnt off now bright sunshine getting warm as the spectators arrived.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Siesha Humphries, Calista Tink (C), Georgina Belton, Abbi Nobbs, Chloe Shipman, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister, Shanice Sutton & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Kari Kowalczyk, Hanna Coombe, Amee Kennett & Phoebe Green. 

UEA FC Women

 UEA FC Women starting XI – Anoushka Williamson, Tasha Harvey, Madeline Pitt, Lucy Gooding (C), Olivia Seeley, Amber Long, Freya Standing, Freya Fuller, Chloe Neate, Cassandra Piejko & Ella Burnley Subs – Lilly Brewer, Mia Everett, Tegan Collier, Prini Woods & Charlotte Stelmaszyk.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides with a few missing through injury, Georgina Belton dropping into the defence for Dussindale & Hellesdon while UEA have 5 or 6 likely starters side-lined through injury, have been hard pressed to name a regular starting XI all season. Nevertheless both have a large squad with players ready to step in. This mornings officials back for the League Cup Final, Craig Day running the line in the 1st game in the centre now with Ryan Starkey and David Fairhurst running the lines. 

 UEA to get the League Cup Final underway kicking off the first half wearing an all navy kit with yellow trim on the shirts, Dussindale & Hellesdon opposite lined up in their claret coloured kit. The ball played back comes to Olivia Seeley on the left played up to Cassandra Piejko knocked inside for Amber Long as UEA look to push through the centre played up to Ella Burnley in attack holds the ball up before rolling it back into Freya Standing a free-kick given away halting the attack.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon get hold of the ball in the middle Chloe Shipman playing it forwards into Victoria Leyer in attack sends the short ball out to Shanice Sutton on the right corner of the UEA box gets a shot away on the angle, straight at UEA goalkeeper, Anoushka Williamson, saves comfortably. Both sides into each other from the start closing one another down, no time allowed on the ball, Leyer taking the ball on across the top of the area 20 yards out for Dussindale & Hellesdon, tracked well by Standing who lunges in to tackle wins the ball.

Shanice Sutton

  Dussindale & Hellesdon come left Siesha Humphries putting the ball on for Chelsea Brister, quickly closed down by Tasha Harvey, Leyer taking on the loose ball before too being closed down outside the box by Madeline Pitt. Dussindale & Hellesdon pushing on at the start of the game the front three pressing UEA back into their box the ball rolled inside from the left coming to Sutton some 30 yards out pulls the trigger sending a shot wide of the right post. Seeley looking to take the ball on up the left for UEA sees her cross cut out by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Rachel Bussey.

UEA’s Olivia Seeley

 GOAL! Dussindale & Hellesdon capitalising on their positive start to the game by taking the lead n the 6th minute, attacking on the left Brister lifting the ball into the box, cleared by Harvey play congested inside the area the ball regained by Dussindale & Hellesdon lifted back inside for Leyer to attack left of the goal six yards out strong to hold off her marker turns getting her foot up to the ball to send it wide of the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

Victoria Leyer opens the scoring for Dussindale & Hellesdon

  UEA conceding an early goal look to rally straight away Standing putting the ball out to the right for Freya Fuller, driving on looks to take on the full back, however can’t keep the ball in play goes out for a goal kick. UEA winning a free-kick with a handball spotted on halfway players up into the box the delivery long to the far post, captain Calista Tink heading clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Shipman with the ball setting off through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Long with the challenge for UEA.

Chloe Shipman

  Sutton tussling with the UEA defence for the ball top of the area, outnumbers but looking to get hold of the ball, ultimately frustrated giving away the free-kick as Fuller looks to take the ball out to the left. Fuller with a strong run on the ball left side for UEA tracking inside laying it forwards towards the area, Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole out well to the top of her box to claim the ball. Neither side able to play much flowing football as they both continue to rush in to close the ball down, scrappy at times, UEA captain Lucy Gooding in the back line intercepting a through ball intended for Leyer.

Shanice Sutton battling with the UEA defence

  Leyer coming inside form the left on the ball shooting off target from 25 yards out. Gooding with the clearance at the back a long ball finding Chloe Neate out wide right, turns on the ball looking to drive on, Humphries quickly into her to tackle regain possession for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Pitt getting up on the right with Neate UEA forcing a corner kick. Lifted in near side, attacked by Fuller can only direct her header behind for a goal kick.

  Pitt bringing down Shipman in midfield sees the UEA player picking up an early yellow card. Brister over the set-piece left of the circle, tries her luck a good hit sending her shot narrowly over the crossbar. A lively contest UEA looking to get the ball out to Neate and Fuller on the flanks run at the Dussindale & Hellesdon full backs, Long finding Neate on the right opts to shoot on the angle a low drive into towards the near post from 25 yards out not troubling Cole.  

  Dussindale & Hellesdon attacking on the left winning a throw lifted into the box for Sutton, Harvey getting across her to defend for UEA. The game frantic in terms of pace at time as the ball is exchanged between the sides Dussindale & Hellesdon turning play around to attack left channel with Sutton on the move with Brister, Humphries bombing on on the over laps the ball rolled on down the line, Pitt out to her to clear the ball for the throw. Alot of energy being expanded both sides into each other a few rash challenges, thing’s need to settle down.

 Dussindale & Hellesdon look to make a double change, bringing off Sutton and Humphries and sending on Kari Kowalczyk and Amee Kennett. UEA making a change too, Prini Woods coming on replacing Long. UEA attacking up on their right the ball squared into Burnley inside the area near side, Tink sliding in to make the tackle coming off the defender for a corner kick. The delivery headed back out to the taker wide the cross/shot back in wide at the near post.

  Abbi Nobbs and Shipman working hard in the middle to win possession back for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Nobbs fouled by Standing as she looks to link up with Abby Hutchin making a break through the middle. The game stretched as Dussindale & Hellesdon counter Kowalczyk on the left putting the ball inside for Leyer in attack, put back into Hutchin out to Bussey advanced on the right her cross lifted into the area cut out by Gooding. As quickly as Dussindale & Hellesdon can spring an attack they are equally adapt at regrouping at the back the midfielders tracking back well, Shipman covering alot of ground. 

Rachel Bussey

 Pitt blocking Leyer as he picks the ball up on the left outside the area looks to turn and shoot. UEA springing a counter attack, Gooding with a great pass on her picking out Burnley getting hold of the ball 30 yards out and turning to strike the ball racing wide of the left post. Another double switch with Brister and Nobbs coming off for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Phoebe Green and Hannah Coombes entering the game late in the first half. 

  Williamson with a magnificent save for UEA off Leyer as she latches onto a clearance, shooting low across the keeper, Williamson down sharply low to to throw out an arm glove the ball wide for a corner. The set-piece lifted into a packed area cleared by the UEA defence. Gooding in on Kowalczyk to win the ball top of the area left as Bussey puts the diagonal ball into her. Fuller pressing on the right for UEA the cross swept into the area cleared by Tink back out to the right a corner won, Harvey coming towards the corner hear side helping it on across goal no one able to reach it. 

UEA goalkeeper, Anoushka Williamson

Both sides continue to niggle at each other no quarter given, Shipman running to close down Pitt as she attempts to get forwards. UEA winning a free-kick wide on the right out in deep from Harvey, headed clear by Belton back out to the right the  looping ball back into the area landing on the roof of the net. Belton picking up a yellow card for Dussindale & Hellesdon as she brings down Burnley taking a run at the defence. Neate on the ball lifted forwards into the area Dussindale & Hellesdon clearing as the half-time whistle blows. 

Madeline Pitt

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women 1-0 UEA FC Women

 Certainly a competitive 1st half both sides working hard to close the other down, little time for anyone on the ball. Victoria’s Leyer’s 6th minute goal the difference between the sides at the break. Dussindale & Hellesdon starting well pressing the UEA defence back, the game beginning to open up as the ball was closed down, UEA getting the ball out wide often end to end in nature as Dussindale & Hellesdon counter well creating chances Leyer seeing a shot saved late in the first half UEA getting into some good positions but as yet to really test the keeper, 1 goal in it however still very much to play for.

 Really warm now as both side return for the 2nd half, Dussindale & Hellesdon to get the game restarted the ball rolled back to Tink in defence out to Bussey moving forwards on the right, plays the ball long looking for Leyer Gooding winning it for UEA. The ball played into Burnley in midfield lifts it out to Neate breaking on down the right her cross cut back into the D, cleared by Coombe for Dussindale & Hellesdon. 

 Coombe then picking up a yellow card for a high boot on Standing. Fuller getting hold of the ball in the middle for UEA driving on into the Dussindale & Hellesdon half encouraged to shoot’ lets fly from 25 yards out blasts the ball wide of the left post. Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a corner out on the right players up from the back, Tink coming to head the ball near side picking up an head injury play stopped immediately for the trainer to come on administer treatment, Tink is okay and able to play on.

Dussindale & Hellesdon captain Calista Tink

 A lively start to the 2nd half, Woods up into Fuller edge of the box looks to turn closely marked by Belton the defender getting a foot in to take the ball. Kowalczyk bursting on with the ball left side for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Neate tracking back on her to challenge as Gooding comes across to clear the ball. Quite intense you feel Dussindale & Hellesdon need another goal to try and settle the game down, UEA pressing well. Belton under pressure as Burnley links up with Standing through the middle, deals with the threat to clear the ball.

Kari Kowalczyk

  Kowalczyk bringing the ball inside linking up with Leyer in attack the Dussindale and Hellesdon striker pulling right to shoot 25 yards out her effort dipping in front of the keeper caught by Williamson on the bounce. Tink throwing herself in to block Burnley as she lines up a strike left side of the D. Coombe spraying the pass out for Green racing on up the line right wing her cross dipping into the near post met by Leyer on the volley turned over at close range.

  Fuller bringing the ball on for UEA out to Neate on the right, Bussey tackling for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Belton clearing for the throw in the corner. UEA pressure the ball inside the box to Standing comes back to Woods top of the area is rapidly closed down. Dussindale & Hellesdon bringing Humpies back on for Kennett. Neate advancing on the right for UEA her cross coming into Burnley inside the box, Belton challenging for Dussindale & Hellesdon the ball out for a throw in the corner. Pressure from UEA on the right appeals for handball the decision finally given a free-kick wide above the area, played into the area cleared back to Neate the free-kick taker, goes down after a challenge with Kowalczyk struggling can’t continue is brought off with Mia Everett coming on.

UEA’s Freya Fuller

  Green flying up the right into the corner for Dussindale & Hellesdon cutting a cross back into the area, Williamson just about getting there before Leyer. Dussindale & Hellesdon press the ball high up the pitch winning a free-kick outside the box to the right of goal in the 66th minute.

  GOAL! Coombe over the dead ball 20 plus yards out from goal players up from the back the ball struck low driven in towards the far corner, Belton running in getting the telling touch to send the ball home to double Dussindale & Hellesdon’s lead 2-0.

Georgina Belton (16) in to score Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 2nd goal

Georgina Belton

  Gooding across to put in the blocking tackle on Leyer left outside the area as she receives the ball from Green advancing up the wing. Dussindale bringing of Kowalczyk bringing Brister back on on the left of attack.

 GOAL! UEA with a quick reply to falling 2 goals behind coming right back to pull a goal back with Fuller driving on with the ball left channel to the edge off the area playing it into Burnley central inside the D shows great skill and close ball control as she shifts the the ball between her feet on the turn before lashing a shot past the keeper inside the left post 2-1. 

Ella Burnley with a great strike to pull a goal back for UEA

  Game on with 20 minutes left to play UEA getting it back to a single goal. Dussindale & Hellesdon win the ball in the middle Hutchin getting hold of it powering her way forwards eventually stopped as 3 UEA players converge on her, Leyer taking on the loose ball out right top of the box in low pushed wide by the keeper.

UEA’s Chloe Neate with Abby Hutchin

  Another player down for UEA, Piejko retuning to the action. Nobbs back on for Coombe. The game intense as Dussindale & Hellesdon press on with the ball Humphries picking the ball up central driving towards the area, Pitt closing her down coming together both go down outside the D, UEA incredulous as the free-kick goes against them, furious feeling it should have gone the other way!

  GOAL! Nobbs over the set-piece for Dussindale & Hellesdon in a very dangerous position central 20 yards out, catches her strike beautifully the lift the ball up over the wall and looping down over the keeper into the back of the net 3-1.

Abbi Nobbs scores from the free-kick to make it 3-1

  UEA seething, furious at the decision to award the free-kick in the first place falling 3-1 behind as a result of it being given vent their opinions, their woes further increased as Piejko is sent off for decent after being asked to repeat her original comment, UEA down to 10, worse still as Burnley with an outburst is shown a yellow card and sin binned for 10 minutes. UEA down to 9! The game turned on a sixpence.

 Belton looking to exploit the player advantage sweeping a diagonal ball up to Brister on the left, striking the ball from distance sees it race wide of the far post. Sutton back on for Dussindale & Hellesdon replacing Leyer. Dussindale & Hellesdon able to come on as UEA try to claim themselves down, Green volleying over at the far post as Brister sweeps in  cross from deep on the left. Shipman with a shot driven in on the angle Williamson taking it into her midriff.

Chelsea Brister

  GOAL! Dussindale & Hellesdon all over UEA now as they press on Green breaking into the area on the ball, Gooding nibbling at her with the challenge, Green staying on her feet to strike the ball low across the keeper into the bottom corner. 4-1.

Phoebe Green congratulated by her teammates after scoring Dussindale & Hellesdon’s 4th

 Hard work for UEA now, Dussindale & Hellesdon with a double switch taking off Humphries and Bussey on come Kennett and Kowalczyk. The game moving into the final 5 minutes of regular time Fuller off for UEA, Tegan Collier on as they look to hold Dussindale & Hellesdon back. Standing back to defend on Hutchin as she gets the ball fed into her feet from the left.

 GOAL! Hutchin with a wonderful strike from distance to bring up Dussindale & Hellesdon’s fifth goal. All of 30 yards out to the right of the area connects with the shot to curl the ball into the top left corner to score a beauty 5-1. 

 Burnley back on for UEA as Dussindale & Hellesdon press on through the middle Shipman into Sutton holding off a defender as she breaks into the area gets a shot away the keeper holding onto the ball. Burnley looking to break through the Dussindale & Hellesdon defence stopped by the offside flag. The game deep into stoppage time Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick out wide on the left the ball flung in towards the far post headed clear by UEA as the final whistle blows. 

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women 5-1 UEA FC Women

  Dussindale & Hellesdon winning the Norfolk Women’s League Cup Final 5-1. The score line not reflection the balance of the game, a controversial free-kick with 0 minutes to go altering the course of the game Dussindale & Hellesdon scoring from it to go 3-1 ahead pushed all the way by UEA until then an intense game boiling over UEA furious with the decision getting two players sent off, Dussindale & Hellesdon taking advantage to score two more goals to settle what could well have been a nervy end to the game. A battling performance from both sides closing each other down with little time on the ball for anyone played at a high tempo. Dussindale & Hellesdon leading by a single goal at the break a close contest, needed a 2nd goal getting it UEA came straight back to make it 2-1 with 20 minutes to go. A huge effort from UEA played their part in the final made Dussindale & Hellesdon work for the win.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Again another tough one with several contenders on both sides to mention. For UEA, Madeline Pitt making some great tackles at the back, Captain Lucy Gooding reading the game well getting in position to intercept and win the ball, her long range passes useful for the counter. Freya Standing and Prini Woods getting after the ball in the middle while Freya Fuller was outstanding making several strong runs through the middle and out wide. For Dussindale & Hellesdon Georgina Belton had a great match at the back in defence winning the ball and preventing the attackers turning. Victoria Leyer up top taking the ball on getting into some great positions inside the box opening the scoring. The award though goes to Chloe Shipman, bossed the midfield getting about the pitch to win the ball, making some useful runs forwards. 

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women 2022/23 Norfolk Women’s League Cup winners

 Congratulations to Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women on winning this season’s Norfolk Women’s League Cup

 An enjoyable day at Youngs Park watch the League Plate and Cup Finals my thanks to everyone for their help today two entertaining games. Plenty of football action still to come a busy week ahead before the excitements all over…

by Darren Gilham