Category Archives: Cup Final

Cup Final Report – ICA Sports Ladies v Newmarket Town Ladies

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup

Wednesday 2nd May

The Cup Final action continues this week on Women’s Football East this Wednesday, hot on the heels from watching the Suffolk Women’s League Cup final a trip to Cambridgeshire to watch ICA Sports Ladies versus Newmarket Town Ladies competing for the Women’s League Cup.

An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Clash, Peterborough side ICA Sports Ladies playing the 1st of two finals they have reached this season with the postponed Junior Invitation Cup Final coming up on the Wednesday 16th May at Newmarket Town FC against Championship South side, Isleham United Ladies. This evening though the focus is on the League Cup. Have progressed in the competition as there form has improved through the season picking up well after a slow start losing there 1st 3 league games some notable results along the way to including beating Premiership leaders St Ives Town Ladies in the semi-finals of the League Cup.

Newmarket Town Ladies have had a great season to date, an early run in the FA Women’s Cup knocking out higher league opposition have as a result been playing catch up in the league now into the final run in lay in 2nd spot behind St Ives Town Ladies and a well positioned to challenge should there rivals slip up. Reaching the League Cup Final have scored plenty of goals throughout the season and have several goalscorers in their squad.

Both sides into their 1st League Cup Final.

Road to the Final

A walkover in the 1st Round for ICA Sports Ladies whilst Newmarket Town Ladies racked up a rugby score away to Championship South, Burwell Tigers these score pop up one or twice a season 30-0 to the Premiership side. Into the 2nd Round and ICA Sports were at home taking on Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies a brace from Donna Nicholls along with a goal each for Hayley Jones, Jessica Farchina and Megan Purnell seeing ICA Sports progress to the quarter finals with a 5-1 win. Newmarket were on the road taking on fellow Premiership side Park Ladies. The goals spread around with Cindy Ponder, Amanda Stacey, Brooke Wickens, Antonia Smith Sarah O’Rourke and Chloe Slater scoring in a 6-1 win.

ICA Sports were at home in the quarter finals taking in Championship South title hopefuls Histon Ladies Reserves. A close game Histon leading 1-0 at half-time a goal from Megan Purnell squaring it up at 1-1 to send the tie into extra-time, no more goals it went to penalties ICA Sports emerging victorious with a 3-2 win to reach the last 4. Another away trip for Newmarket taking on Championship South side Isleham United Ladies. A comfortable win seeing them into the last 4, both Abbi Griffin and Laura Bailey scoring twice with a goal each for Chloe Slater and Jess Linger in a 6-0 win.

Both semi-finals played on neutral territory at the Fulbourn Recreation Ground. A great result for ICA Sports in the semi-finals drawn against Premiership leaders St Ives Town Ladies. ICA Sports in good form the sides were goalless at the break the winning goal coming in the 2nd period, Lorna Hart with the goal to send ICA Sports into the League Cup Final. Newmarket were taking on Cambridge University Women. Newmarket continuing their good form in front of goal reaching the League Cup Final courtesy of a 5-1 win, Jordanne Sillitoe scoring a brace with Abbi Griffin, Amanda Stacey and Chloe Slater all getting a goal.

3 times the sides have met in the league this season Newmarket winning 2 of those encounters 4-1 whilst the other game ended in a goalless draw. League form however goes out the window in any cup game.

The venue for this evenings Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance The Ellgia Stadium, home of Ely City FC. Has been a while since I was last here, there is now a new cinema and restaurant complex build on the land leading to the ground off the A10. The rugby club, tennis, golf and football ground still beyond. New dugouts, the pitch looking in good condition a little bobbly offers good width. Concerned earlier above whether the game would be on heavy rain falling for a while late morning into the afternoon but it cleared and pleasant and mild afterwards, perfect weather for a game of football… about time too.

ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Clare Knibbs, Steph Pepper, Holly Partner, Sophie Antonucci, Becky Shields (C), Sarah Rouse, Jess Farchica, Zoe Leddy, Megan Purnell, Donna Nicholls & Lorna Hart. Subs – Rhian Leonard.

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Brooke Wickens, Beth Woodfield (C), Cindy Ponder, Jess Linger, Laura Bailey, Chloe Slater, Antonia Smith, Abi Griffin & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Sarah O’Rourke, Frankie Torrance, Joeli Kirby, Amanda Stacey & Lauren Deller.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Just the one substitute available for ICA Sports, Newmarket having several attacking options available on theirs. It’s ICA Sports to get the first half kicked off, wearing royal blue shirts with a white and navy band across the top, royal blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks. Newmarket wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts.

ICA Sports put the ball forwards right from the off showing attacking intent, Lorna Hart the target , Beth Woodfield captaining Newmarket heading the ball away at the back. Donna Nicholls receiving the ball form Jess Farchica drives forwards on the right tackled by Newmarket full back Yasmin Woodfield. ICA Sports with a good start lively getting players forwards have Newmarket penned back in their own half.

Newmarket Town Ladies captain, Beth Woodfield heading the ball clear.

A throw deep on the left into Hart the striker putting the ball inside for Farchica, Newmarket tackle the ball cleared, ICA Captain, Becky Shields bringing it down on halfway, builds another ICA Sports attack. Newmarket haven’t settled, ICA Sports taking full advantage goalkeeper Eloise Hope rushing out of her area to clear the ball for Newmarket as Hart is put in over the top. Newmarket have the ball the pass out to striker Jordanne Sillitoe moving away to the left, her crossfield ball coming to Abbi Griffin in space on the right takes it forwards her cross into the box gathered by ICA Sports goalkeeper Clare Knibbs at her near post.

Nicholls on the left the ball up to Hart, Cindy Ponder going up for the ball with striker the ball out for a throw-in on the left. Played into Nicholls top of the area, inside for Hart played on across the D for Zoe Leddy, taking the all away to the right making room for a shot sends a low strike angling in towards the far post, Hope is in position to gather the ball. Laura Bailey with the ball inside the ICA Sports half plays the pass out to Brooke Wickens running forwards on the left taking it to the edge of the box the ICA Spots defence close on her no room for a strike a regain possession of the ball.

ICA Sports Ladies, Donna Nicholls

Counter attacking the ball played up to Hart she knocks it down to Nicholls breaking in behind on the left, Ponder coming across to slide in and take the ball away from her. Hart leading the line for ICA Sports the ball played into her 25 yards from goal central bringing it down turns and strikes the ball in towards goal her effort straight at Hope the Newmarket goalkeeper claiming the ball.

GOAL! ICA Sports capitalise on their good start take the lead as Hart forces a mistake at the back the ball played into the left channel the striker going after it as it runs into the box Beth Woodfield trying to shield it back to her keeper, Hope comes out sliding in, Hart on Woodfield’s back the ball is touched by the defender taking it out of Hope’s path leaving her goal exposed Hart alive getting around the Newmarket pair and sending the ball into the back of the empty net 1-0.

Lorna Hart with the opening goal for ICA Sports Ladies.

Newmarket were planning a change before the goal do it before the restart Antonia Smith giving way for Frankie Torrance who goes into left back pushing Wickens further up on the wing. Bailey with the ball into Sillitoe left side her lay off to the advancing Torrance 20 yards from goal her attempted strike charged down by the ICA Sports defence. Megan Purnell with the ball attacking on the right wing for ICA Sports screws a shot wide from 25 yards out. The positive start from ICA Sports has them full of confidence, Newmarket rattled are disjointed

Jess Linger with the ball in the centre for Newmarket on for Sillitoe ahead of her spins the ball out to the left with Wickens bombing on, Shields coming across to clear the ball out for a throw top of the area. Sillitoe taking the throw down well into her body turns and sends a cross into the area, Knibbs can easily gather. Getting early goal they were after ICA Sports have settled forming a solid shape at the back not showing as much attacking intent. Nicholls a threat on the left. Ponder tackling in the middle of the Newmarket defence as Hart looks to force her way in on goal. ICA Sports make a change, Rhian Leonard coming on for Holly Partner.

Brooke Wickens bringing the ball on for Newmarket Town Ladies

Bailey plays the ball forwards Sillitoe leaving it to run on through as Wickens runs clear in behind on the left side, Purnell going with her tackles her on the edge of the area. A free-kick wide left for Newmarket, Linger on it a good distance goes for goal the ball wide of the near post. Torrance bringing the ball on down the left on for Sillitoe the Newmarket striker beating a coupe of players before sending a diagonal ball into the box Griffin with the central run the ball too close to the keeper Knibbs down to gather before her goal is threatened.

Hart strong on the ball gets the better of Beth Woodfield wide left puts a cross/shot in towards goal the ball flashing out wide at the far post across the goal face. Bailey opens up her body sliding the ball into Sillitoe to attack the ICA Sports, no shot on as the opposition are quick to converge, Farchica with Sarah Rouse a shield in front of their defence. Newmarket haven’t got going properly at all, attacking room in the final third but closed down quickly passing options aren’t on. ICA Sports bringing it away Hart always ready yo turn in behind up top.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe with ICA Sports, Steph Pepper.

Into the closing minutes of the 1st half, Leonard forwards on the right for Newmarket played in down the line coming inside Ponder tackling the ball out for a corner kick. Defended near post a goal kick awarded. Rouse sending the ball back into the area as Newmarket initially clear it, bouncing Hart at six yards out Hope does well up against her, her punch taking it off her head knocking it to the floor is first to it and gathers. A free-kick inside the ICA Sports half for Newmarket, Linger has Yasmin Woodfield in space to her right she is supported by Griffin working the ball forwards Leddy wins the ball back for ICA Sports before any cross can be delivered.

Half-time ICA Sports Ladies 1-0 Newmarket Town Ladies

A strong 1st half performance from ICA Sports showing attacking intent from the start, got Newmarket on the back foot and getting the goal they were after have sat back since. Newmarket are more often than not a free flowing attacking side, haven’t settled at all in the 1st half on this evening’s final a large part down to ICA Sports, haven’t tested Knibbs with a shot getting the ball in and around the box, Shields and Pepper strong at the back backed up well by Rouse and Farchica in front of them. Chances have been few the difference ICA Sports have taken theirs. A narrow lead to defend but Newmarket need to find more in themselves if they are to find a way back into the game 2nd half.

The floodlights starting to take full effect as the light fades the sides out for the 2nd half. A change for Newmarket who get the 2nd half kicked off, Sarah O’Rourke up top supporting Sillitoe with Bailey off. Ponder moved into midfield, press the ball early Sillitoe inside for O’Rourke the substitute driving forwards to try and get into the box, Farchica sliding in to tackle. A counter attack for ICA Sports the ball played out to Nicholls bursting forwards on the left her pass inside to Hart runs in behind the return pass a little too heavy allowing Hope to come and gather.

Jess Farchica with the tackle to win the ball back for ICA Sports

Pepper goes in to win the clearance for ICA Sports the ball played long up to Hart moving into the left channel, Beth Woodfield coming across to her to shield the ball out for a goal kick. O’Rourke with the ball deep on the left after a throw-in her cross fired in towards the near post Griffin getting in front of the keeper tries to flick the ball past her with her heel the ball running across the face of goal. Sillitoe with support from O’Rourke right side of the ICA Sports box pushing the ball into her Sillitoe coming inside receiving return ball her shot in curling wide of goal.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Cindy Ponder

Yasmin Woodfield on the overlap in behind as Griffin slides the ball into her run her cross in cleared by Pepper, comes straight to Ponder drives a shot back in towards goal on target but straight at Knibbs the keeper taking the ball safely into her body. Newmarket starting the 2nd period well players forwards into attacking positions ICA Sports remain a tough nut to crack. Hart the outlet up top for ICA Sports the ball played up to her tried to turn in behind is tackled by Slater.

ICA Sports Ladies, Steph Pepper

O’Rourke fouled by Shield as she looks to force her way forwards with the ball through the middle a free-kick in a dangerous position 25/30 yards out Linger takes on the shot her rising ball parried down and caught by Knibbs. A free-kick up the other end as Nicholls is fouled by Beth Woodfield 22 yards out left of the D. She shot striking the wall the rebound blazed high over the goal.

Pepper comes across to tackle put the ball out for a throw on the right as Griffin is played in behind by Ponder. ICA Sports are standing strong against the Newmarket assault Sophie Antonucci bringing the ball on from the back on for Nicholls on the left the ball put out for a throw level with the top of the Newmarket area.

GOAL! ICA Sports double their lead off the throw in the ball rolled inside for Farchica having gotten into an advanced position 25 yards out no one on her shifts the ball and sends in a great strike towards goal looping up into the air has Hope worried back on her line it dips late on her striking the underside of the crossbar bouncing down and up again the angle taking it into the goal off the side netting 2-0.

A further blow for Newmarket a triple change made Smith back on along with Joeli Kirby and Lauren Deller. Hart strong through the middle, Beth Woodfield doing well up against her to regain possession. Newmarket overloading the left side win a corner the ball curled in towards the near post Rouse defending for ICA Sports. A change for ICA Sports, Leonard off Purnell back on. Newmarket press players on attacking risk leaving gaps at the back, ICA Sports though defending resolutely are camped inside there half defending the box, Farchica cutting out a through ball for O’Rourke from Ponder.

Another strike charged down by Pepper, Linger bringing the ball on. Kirby getting hold of the ball 25 yards out runs towards the area, now way through the ICA Sports defence. Newmarket rotate players in attack desperate to find goal. ICA Sports make a change a slight knock for Nicholls, Leonard returning. Into the final 5 minutes ICA Sports are working hard to keep Newmarket at bay happy for the ball to be played around 25 yards out letting no gaps appear especially through the middle.

Hart up top on her own always ready to go after the ball whenever it is launched clear one on one with Hope as the keeper comes to the top of the area a crunching 50/50 between the pair the ball could have gone anywhere runs out for a goalkick wide of goal as Hope picks herself up. Smith with the ball fr Newmarket forwards for Kirby, Pepper sliding in to tackle for ICA Sports. Into stoppage time all Newmarket, Knibbs claiming the cross has collected everything Newmarket have played into her box. ICA Sports standing firm right to the final whistle celebrate as they win the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup for the first time.

Full time ICA Sports Ladies 2-0 Newmarket Town Ladies

Have seen Newmarket several times this season, and they don’t need me to tell them they can play better. Finals can do that sometimes, have seen it for whatever reason you just don’t have the performance you know you’re capable of there on the day. Disappointment for Newmarket, however take nothing away from ICA Sports Ladies fully deserving of their success came with a plan and executed it perfectly, getting in front early and working hard as a unit to frustrate and prevent opportunities for their opponents. Defending resolutely at times got up the other end to score a 2nd goal wanted the clean sheet up the other end. One final won another to come.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

A tough one this evening singling out just one player for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. It was a good solid all round team performance from ICA Sports. Lorna Hart leading the line well backed up by Donna Nicholls. At the back Steph Pepper put in some terrific tackles to prevent Newmarket’s attackers running through on goal. Sarah Rouse in midfield breaking up play along side Jess Farchina, excellent in disrupting Newmarket’s flow especially 1st half and with a great strike to score ICA Sports 2nd goal I have chosen Jess Farchina.

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Winners 2017/18, ICA Sports Ladies

Congratulations to ICA Sports Ladies on winning this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup.

My thanks to both sides for there help with the teams this evening. Thanks to Chris Abbott to for asking me to present the players their awards it was an honour one I certainly wasn’t expecting. Back to Ely again tomorrow for my 3rd final of the week the Division One Cup Final.

Cup Final Report – AFC Kesgrave Ladies v East Bergholt United Ladies

Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final

Tuesday 1st May

A busy week of cup finals this week begins this Tuesday with a trip to Suffolk to watch the Women’s League Cup Final with AFC Kesgrave Ladies playing East Bergholt United Ladies.

A cup final appearance in their debut season for AFC Kesgrave Ladies a young squad making the step up to adult football this season. Hit the ground running winning there opening 2 matches. A run of losses then followed progress in the cup regaining some form has been up and down since with 6 wins from 15 played are comfortable in mid-table as the squad gains experience in the league.

East Bergholt United Ladies are into their 2nd successive Suffolk Women’s League Cup Final, beaten by Ipswich Town Ladies Development as they secured a league and cup double last season. The League Cup Final ending goalless went all the way to penalties and heartbreak for East Bergholt United as they went down 5-4 in the shootout. Are on course for a league and cup double themselves this season topping the Suffolk Women’s Division all season won their opening 9 games, a run of 4 successive draws following giving the chasing pack a chance to close the gap returning to winning ways last time out away to Leiston St Margarets are ahead on goal difference with 2 games left to play in the league an important week coming up. In action just 48 hours ago winning 7-0 at home to Coplestonians Ladies

Road to the Final

Both sides were handed a bye in the 1st Round to progress to the quarter finals of the League Cup. AFC Kesgrave were drawn at home up against Ipswich Athletic Ladies, a goal from Ashley Bustos along with a brace for Daisy Starsmoore in the 1st half seeing the club through to the last four of the competition. East Bergholt United starting the season with 4 successive wins took that form into the quarter finals of the League Cup where they were drawn away to another side with title ambitions Walsham Le Willow Ladies a close game a single goal settling the contest scored in the first half by East Bergholt’s Charlotte McGrath.

Onto the semi-finals, AFC Kesgrave were away to Coplestonians Ladies, goals from Bustos and Starsmoore along with Jade Fox securing a 3-0 victory to secure a final spot for the club in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division. East Bergholt United were at home in the semi-finals another tricky looking tie against Bacton United Ladies who have been on their heels in the league all season. A brace from Jessica Clarke with a goal each for Annie Northwood and Millie Wilding seeing East Bergholt United into their 2nd successive final.

Brantham Leisure Centre the venue for this evening’s final home of Brantham Athletic FC a sports field adjoining the main pitch overlooked by a large clubhouse and bar. Hot food and drink available, needed fuel and they did a very nice cheeseburger. The pitch a good size a small covered seated stand behind the dugouts and another at the end of one end. Rained all day Monday and I did wonder if this evenings final would be on but today has been much better drying thing’s out overcast but mild.

AFC Kesgrave Ladies starting XI – Jade Fox (C), Felicity Cooper, Jade Marsh, Lauren Godbold, Georgia Lane, Daisy Starsmoore, Georgia Clarke, Lina Nagid, Imogen O’Sullivan, Issy McCartney & Ashley Bustos. Subs – Christy Fraser.

East Bergholt United Ladies starting XI – Kimberley Lynch, Harriet Meers, Emily Lambert, Deben Faiers, Millie Wilding, Georgina Longden (C), Charlotte Warren, Charlotte McGrath, Jess Quinsee, Georgia Lockerbie & Annie Northwood. Subs – Holly Prior, Pippa King, Jess Oxlade & Cara Savage.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s East Bergholt to get the match underway kicking off 1st half wearing green shirts with black shorts and socks. Kesgrave lined up opposite wearing red and blue vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Moving the ball forwards Kesgrave look to press East Bergholt early on the ball played out to the left for Jess Quinsee to chase, Kesgrave defend see the ball out for a throw. Kesgrave attack up the left winning a throw the ball played on into the area Deben Faiers defending for East Bergholt as Georgia Clarke and Imogen O’Sullivan look to attack the ball top of the area.

East Bergholt look to release their wide players, Quinsee left, Georgia Lockerbie on the right. Lauren Godbold stepping out of the back line for Kesgrave to tackle Quinsee as she cuts inside looking to drive towards the area. O’Sullivan attacks as she runs the ball down on the right a crunching tackle from Faiers the deflected ball running to Lina Nagid for Kesgrave 20 yards out left corner of the box shifts it inside one touch and shoots her rising effort wide of the top corner.

A bright start from Kesgrave. East Bergholt quick to turn play around. Kesgrave with a free kick on half way the ball played forwards Nagid running clear in behind East Bergholt goalkeeper Kimberly Lynch coming to the edge of her area stays big does enough to as Nagid gets a shot away her strike placed wide of the post.

GOAL! Kesgrave capitalise on their good start to the final getting forwards up the right win a throw in high up the pitch move it quickly players drawn across the cross comes in towards the top of the area O’Sullivan is there the ball into her path the keeper comes, the ball sent past her into the back of the net 1-0.

Plenty of pace in the Kesgrave side. Lose possession on the left Quinsee breaking forwards is brought down a free-kick. Players up from the back for East Bergholt the delivery into the top of the area, Godbold defending for Kesgrave. The ball is won back on the left Quinsee with the shot driving the ball in from 25 yards out, Jade Fox in goal for Kesgrave right behind it claims the ball. Lockerbie wide right pushes forwards for East Bergholt she is tackled by Jade Marsh.

GOAL! East Bergholt get themselves back on level terms attacking down the right the ball out for a throw deep inside the Kesgrave half the ball controlled and a low cross fired across the face of the goal, Quinsee there her 1st time shot initially blocked by the diving keeper is still active a scramble across the goalmouth, Quinsee gets it across the line to level the scores 1-1.

GOAL! No sooner are East Bergholt back on level terms they take the lead and it’s Quinsee once again on the scoresheet. The attack beginning with Annie Northwood driving through the middle stopped by the Kesgrave defence the ball kept by East Bergholt put out to Quinsee left side she takes it forwards shooting from the angle as she arrives in the area the ball racing past the keeper at the near post 2-1.

East Bergholt starting to get into their stride Charlotte McGrath in the middle of the park winning the ball looking to put Quinsee away on the left, Kesgrave intercepting the intended through ball. A double change for East Bergholt, Pippa King and Cara Savage coming on Quinsee and Northwood. King with an opportunity to shoot straight away her 20 yard effort taking a deflection out for a corner. A good delivery into the six yard box after a scramble for the ball Kesgrave get it to safety. Lockerbie with a header on looks to get into the area, Fox can come off her line to gather the ball.

A change for Kesgrave, Christy Fraser on for Clarke. Nagid looks a threat for Kesgrave picking up the ball inside the East Bergholt half and taking it forwards Faiers coming towards her to put in the challenge win the ball back. Play turned around rapidly Lockerbie wanting it on the right. Felicity Cooper coming across to tackle her. A throw on the right the cross fired into the area a shot right side pulled wide of the post. Emily Lambert on for Charlotte Warren the pass forwards looking to release Savage in behind on the left Issy McCartney getting to it first for Kesgrave.

GOAL! Half an hour played East Bergholt go further in front. Savage with the goal picking the ball up on the left a strong run forwards letting fly from distance the low shot racing across the keeper into the bottom corner of the net 3-1.

Ashley Bustos getting forwards for Kesgrave evades Faiers tackle the pass on for Nagid, Millie Wilding winning the ball back for East Bergholt. Harriet Meers breaks up a Kesgrave attack at right back her ball into the middle for Longden play spread out to Savage tackled the ball out for a throw wide left a change for Kesgrave O’Sullivan off Clarke back on. Lockerbie links up with King as East Bergholt attack playing a one two the cross into the area claimed by the keeper.

East Bergholt are strong through the middle Warren on for McGrath her pass forwards for King op of the area the ball defended runs to the right King seeing another attempt charged down. Nagid with a twisting run through the middle McCartney breaking ahead of her on the left the pass intercepted by Meers. Faiers in again to tackle Nagid as she comes forwards through the middle.

Nagid keeps probing through the middle a good run takes on the shot her effort stopped by Wilding almost puts Bustos in on goal inside the area on the follow up pounces on the loose ball Lynch diving at her feet reacts quickly to lay claim to the ball six yards out. McGrath with good combination play linking with Lockerbie right side progress down the right Cooper coming to support Marsh Kesgrave concede the throw in. Northwood returning to the field for Longden.

East Bergholt dominating late into the 1st half bodies up and around the Kesgrave area, no final shot. Kesgrave break forwards Bustos fouled in front of the centre circle. Players come forwards as the ball is played up into the box Wilding with the header the ball falling into the area Cooper central with the snap shot the strike wide of goal.

Half-time AFC Kesgrave Ladies 1-3 East Bergholt United Ladies

A 3-1 lead for East Bergholt as the referee brings the 1st half to a close. Kesgrave lively from the start taking an early lead East Bergholt finding a quick reply turning the game completely around to lead moments later. Have looked a threat using the wide players well stretching play. Kesgrave far from out of it have the pace to counter attack and create chances. East Bergholt extending the lead. A two goal advantage Kesgrave can put pressure on if they score early 2nd half.

Kesgrave to get the 2nd half underway. Pushing on win a corner early on in the 2nd period. A great delivery towards the far post dropped inviting the header duly obliged the ball put up and over the crossbar. Northwood played in on the left side attacks for East Bergholt the sliding tackle coming in the ball won back. Northwood getting hold of the ball for a Kesgrave goalkick plays it back across the top of the area Lockerbie sending a ball into the area McGrath with the run can’t quite get on the end of it.

GOAL! The early goal comes 2nd half unfortunately for Kesgrave it goes against them East Bergholt taking advantage from a slip on halfway as Kesgrave are awarded a free-kick the ball pounced on by Northwood a fantastic diagonal ball to the right releasing Lockerbie in behind lets fly form 25 yards out her strike past the keeper to make it 4-1.

A few times in the match East Bergholt have gotten the ball out wide getting into a good crossing position the ball coming into the area no one has gambled through the middle Kesgrave able to clear the ball without challenge. Nagid has taken a knock for Kesgrave comes off. King puts an effort on goal wide as she attempts to lob the keeper after she goalkick comes straight to her 25 yards out.

A triple switch for East Bergholt, Meers, McGrath and Lockerbie off on come Holly Prior, Jess Oxlade and Quinsee returning to the field. East Bergholt looking the more dominant side push players forwards. A long ball forwards from the middle sees Clarke head the ball out wide to O’Sullivan she attacks trying to get into the area, Faiers with the tackle putting the ball out for a throw. Nagid returns to the field for Kesgrave, Clarke giving way. Northwood getting away clear on the left her ball inside the box to Oxlade she lays it back for Savage, Cooper closing her down.

GOAL! Sustained possession on the right from East Bergholt wins them a corner kick the six yard box crowded as the ball in swung in high dropping across the face of goal Savage with the bullet header to bury the ball into the back of the net claims her 2nd of the final 5-1 the lead with a little over 20 minutes to play.

GOAL! East Bergholt continue to press forwards savage winning the ball the pass on for Northwood on the left comes inside stopped on the edge of the area. Wilding with the tackle up the other end 20 yards out as Nagid is played on through the middle for Kesgrave. A double save with her leg for the Kesgrave keeper stopping a driven shot fired in from the right side, deflected back out into area Oxlade closed down by McCartney gets a shot away again the keeper saves with her leg the ball cleared out of the area Kesgrave loosing their shape as East Bergholt press on the ball won back is with Savage is a long way out the keeper out of position fires it back in an unorthodox strike but effective as it loops up and drops into the back of the net, a Cup Final hat-trick for Savage 6-1.

Savage is brought off soon after along with King, Longden and McGrath returning. Faiers gets forwards with the ball from the back for East Bergholt has a shot her effort over from 25 yards. Northwood comes close to getting a goal for East Bergholt as she is played in behind through the middle her rising strike inside the box right of goal kissing the woodwork on it’s way out. Alice Longden comes on for East Bergholt replacing Wilding.

Late into the game Kesgrave tiring haven’t the subs to bring on like their opponents aren’t able to keep the ball as East Bergholt continue to press bodies on. Into the final 10 minutes. McCartney given time and room in the middle gets a shot away for Kesgrave, Lynch behind it all the way in the East Bergholt goal. Northwood put in the clear on the left shoots from the angle the ball whipping wide across the goal face. Nagid with Bustos on the left get forwards the shot driven in wide of the near post.

GOAL! Quinsee is brought down on the right as she threatens to run in behind clear to attack the goal. A free-kick in a dangerous position 20 yards out right corner of the box, Georgina Longden to take a great strike it flies in a foot under the cross bar to bring up East Bergholt’s 7th goal 7-1.

Into stoppage time East Bergholt on top Quinsee attacking on the right brought down once again. Kesgrave able to defend the set piece this time. The final whistle blows and East Bergholt claim their 1st trophy winning the Suffolk Women’s League Cup.

Full time AFC Kesgrave Ladies 1-7 East Bergholt United Ladies

A much better feeling for East Bergholt this time around after last season’s penalty heart ache. 7-1 the winning score a dominant performance once they got into their stride rotating their players frequently. Finding space out wide and recovering from an early set-back. Kesgrave buoyed by their start certainly have talent within their squad, pace good movement will improve 3-1 down at half -time conceding the 4th goal early in the 2nd half was a cruel blow and East Bergholt took full advantage. Never the less Kesgrave should be proud to have reached a Cup Final in their debut season in the Suffolk Women’s Division.

The League Cup won the double still very much on. Rivals Walsham Le Willows and Bacton United Ladies also playing tonight a 2-1 win for Bacton puts them 3 points behind East Bergholt with one each left to play. Walsham Le Willows are now 8 point behind with 3 to play, East Begholt’s final league game is away to Walsham Le Willows on Sunday 13th May.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

A good all round performance from East Bergholt this evening the defence standing form when called upon, midfield competing for the ball and the wide players a threat whoever took up the position. Overall for her Cup Final hat-trick tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cara Savage.

Suffolk Women’s League Cup Winners, East Bergholt United (picture credit East Bergholt)

Congratulations to East Bergholt United Ladies on winning the Suffolk Women’s League Cup.

Thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details tonight always appreciated. Onto Cambridgeshire for their Women’s League Cup Final.

Cup Final Report – Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

Friday 27th April

Cup Final action this Friday from the FDC, Field of Dreams Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

A contest between two sides currently at the top of their game in Norfolk. Both with an ambitious young manager at the helm, Bradley Mingay for Acle United, Alex Guy for Wymondham Town Ladies.

Acle United Ladies winners of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in 2014/15, a currently 3rd in the ERWFL Premier Division, amongst the title challengers games coming thick and fast at the end of the season. Two cup finals to contest the Norfolk Women’s County Cup this evening, have also reached the final of the ERWFL League Cup coming up on Sunday 13th May against AFC Dunstable Ladies.

Wymondham Town Ladies are in their 2nd successive Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final and are looking to make it a double this season having already clinched the ERWFL Division One North title and promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division. Are unbeaten in the league drawing just the one of their 17 games so far and with just one game to play will be aiming to go the season without defeat. Scoring plenty of goals too Laura Nicholls top scorer with 40 goals this season to date. Hannah Waters joining the club midway through the season making an impact to with 22 goals from 15 appearances.

Road to the Final

Acle United Ladies received a bye in the 1st Round of the competition, whilst in contrast for Wymondham Town Ladies it was a repeat of last season’s final with a home draw against Thorpe United Ladies a 3-1 win for Wymondham knocking the County Cup holders out at the 1st hurdle. Onto the 2nd Round both Acle and Wymondham drawn away to Norfolk Women’s Division One opposition. Comfortable wins for both Acle putting 7 goals past Gorleston FC Ladies whilst Wymondham scored 8 without reply against Stalham Town Ladies.

Frustration in the quarter finals for Acle after seeing their tie away to Aylsham Ladies previous County Cup Finalists postponed twice they were eventually awarded the away win to progress to the last 4 of the competition. Wymondham were already scoring plenty of goals when they were drawn away to Fakenham Town Ladies a crushing 15-0 win seeing them through to the semi-finals. Acle away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies who had seen off Norwich City Ladies at The Walks, Acle edging the result on the day 2-1 to reach the Final. Wymondham were drawn away aswell in the semi-final taking on Norfolk Women’s Division One leaders Sprowston Ladies. Unbeaten in the league and scoring plenty of goals Wymondham did so again a 7-0 win seeing them into their 2nd successive final. After missing out on the trophy last season Wymondham have added determination to lift it this time around.

The venue for this evening’s final The FDC, Field of Dreams in Bowthorpe. Did wonder if we would see a game as the rain had been falling all day and heavy at times on the way there. However Norfolk FA declared the game on a slight concern about one goal mouth by the rain easing slightly. Not much cover beside the ground a small seated stand but despite the miserable conditions a good number had turned out most of the opinion this was going to be a good contest against two good sides.

Acle United Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Anna Larkins, Naomi Cooper, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Ceira Flatt, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd (C), Kirstie Kindred & Laura Holden. Subs – Brogan Scully, Erin Wilson, Rhianne Brister, Grace Birchall & Leah McGuire.

Acle United Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Bethany Fretwell, Lauren Kett, Rachel Cossey (C), Alice Ladbrooke, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters. Subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Alice Collins, Jorja Patterson, Rose Glendinning & Louise Hamilton-Rout.

Wymondham Town Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Acle centre back Kate Pasque a doubt before the game having pulled up early in the previous league match away to Royston Town Ladies last Sunday, however coming through the warm-up okay was okay to start. Lauren Kett at the back for Wymondham, starred for Thorpe United in last season’s County Cup Final success. Wymondham to get the first half kicked off wearing red shirts, black shorts and red and black hooped socks. Acle kitted out in white and black vertical striped shirts black shorts with black and white hooped socks. The rain briefly absent.

Both sides probing early on the ball knocked back and forth Wymondham play the ball up to Hannah Waters 30 yards out a speculative attempt from distance the ball landing wide of Cyan Fullbrook’s goal. Megan Todd wide on the right likes to get the ball at her feet and drive at players, strong cutting inside Lauren Kett comes across to put in the tackle win the ball at the top of the area. Acle build from the left at the back Naomi Cooper bringing the ball on forwards for Lauren Bullard, Amber Rowland moving across from midfield receiving the ball sends Bullard on in behind her cross put behind at the near post.

Close for Acle as the cross bar is struck early in the game a free-kick awarded in the centre of the Wymondham half, Rowland on the ball a good delivery up to the top of the area Todd the target right of the D gets up well, Ceira Flatt with a good run spinning clear of her marker, Todd’s header falling to her running into the six yard box at the far post catches the ball on the volley her strike smashing up against the bar, drops back into play Wymondham getting it clear.

GOAL! No sooner have Acle come so close to the opening goal Wymondham get up the other end and score. Winning a corner kick on the left side. The initial delivery in defended by Todd at the near post her header going back to the taker the ball shifted and crossed back in high Bethany Fretwell rising highest 8 yards out to get her head on the ball, Fullbrook jumping gets a glove up toward the ball as it smashed against the crossbar drops straight down into the middle of the six yard box straight to Laura Nicholls sends the ball over the line to put Wymondham into the lead 0-1.

Acle are soon on the attack after the restart looking for a quick response Todd with a powerful run with the ball on the right fires a cross in low towards the near post the shot bu Kirstie Kindred into the side netting. Laura Holden see’s the ball come straight to her as goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan miscue’s her goal kick the ball striking the Acle attacker 25 yards out right of goal she shoots for goal looking to put the ball wide across the keeper too wide the ball runs wide of the far post.

Flatt picks up the ball in midfield for Acle takes it on Rowland going with her as she plays the pass out to Bullard getting in behind wide left her cross put back into the middle for Rowland top of the area she brings it inside before unleashing a shot her curling effort rising goes wide of the far post. Wymondham counter quickly the ball put over the top see’s Nicholls running clear in behind, Fullbrook quickly out to the edge of the area to slide in claim the ball at her feet. A good tempo to the game a good sized pitch conditions are tricky but players are keeping their feet well enough as the rain begins to fall once more.

Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey is down injured in midfield and cannot continue she is substituted, Jorja Patterson coming on a direct swap. Todd bursts forwards down the right with the ball her low cross in defended Fretwell clearing the ball. Bullard winning a corner on the left as she and Cooper combine well on the left. The ball driven in low towards the near post is deflected into the side netting a goal kick given. A good contest the sides fairly evenly matched the ball played up to Hannah Waters inside the Acle area her knock down back to Kayleigh Holloway on the left her ball back in charged down by Todd.

O’Callaghan saves with her legs as Acle attacking down the right send a cross in long across the six yard box Bullard arriving far side with the shot towards goal. Holden and Kindred try to force their way through the Wymondham defence Kindred winning the ball pushes it into Holden she takes t on as Holden tries to get in behind the ball intercepted the deflection taking it away for a corner. The ball attacked near post defended a crowd going for the ball two players down in the aftermath.

Wymondham’s Alice Ladbrooke with the pass on to Mollie O’Callaghan left side, Anna Larkins with the challenge to break up the attack. Wymondham regain possession in the middle the ball out to the right the cross swung into the area Kate Pasque up to head it away, Alice Ladbrooke claiming the ball puts it forwards early as Acle look to clear the box, do so as Nicholls breaks clear on goal the offside flag halting her attack. Acle attack Cooper picking up possession on the left allowed to travel comes inside out for Bullard wide left her cross along the top of the area, Kindred meeting it her shot central inside the D played wide of the far post.

A substitution for Acle Bullard coming off, Grace Birchall coming on. Rowland is fouled on halfway the free-kick played forwards early Fretwell does well under challenge to get the ball safely back to her keeper. Kindred wins the ball 25 yards out Rowland getting forwards to support her right side the ball passed out to Todd her cross fired in near post, two Acle attackers going for the ball put behind for the goal kick.

GOAL! Just over half an hour played and Acle get themselves back on level terms. Awarded a free-kick out on the right players forwards from the back is a very good ball into the six yard box O’Callaghan comes to punch the ball attacked by Todd it goes beyond her Pasque close behind bundles the ball over the line 1-1.

GOAL! Wymondham are soon back in front the goal coming from another set-piece a free-kick on half-way the ball played up to the top of the area a push in the back spotted a 2nd free-kick awarded in a dangerous position central right at the top of the D. Mollie O’Callaghan to take, she goes for goal her strike clipping the Acle wall the deflection sending it up and looping over Fullbrook into the back of the net 1-2.

Flatt comes forwards her pass on for Todd on the right the ball into the area intercepted deflected back to Todd who strikes it from 25 yards out her effort bouncing wide across goal taking a nick off a Wymondham player on the way through a corner given. Acle press late on in the 1st half winning another corner right side the delivery into Holden good hold up play she turns he cross back in landing on the roof of the net. Kindred spins in behind, Fretwell quick to recover comes back on her to slide in put the ball out for a throw top of the area. Patterson gets hold of the ball for Wymondham sends it forwards for Waters in the area up against Pasque the defender wins the challenge.

Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-2 Wymondham Town Ladies

An entertaining 1st half comes to an end Wymondham holding the narrow advantage could quite easily have been the other way around. Both sides coping with the conditions well are evenly matched and all 3 goals ave come from a set piece. More of the same in the 2nd half and the game could go either way, maybe all the way Acle having been involved in a penalty shootout the last time they were here.

Acle to get the 2nd half underway start the 2nd half brightly pressing forwards Rowland passing the ball left to Birchall her early diagonal ball into the area Todd closing in on the far post cant quite reach it. Flatt into Rowland as Acle come again she picks out Holden breaking away to the right her cross screws away behind at the near post. Birchall with the ball comes inside from the left digs a shot out from the edge of the area her strike racing wide across goal past the far post. Acle attacking with purpose at the start of the 2nd half, Holden with the ball 25 out Fretwell steps out of the back line to put in the tackle win the ball.

Todd with possession for Acle, Larkins races past her on the overlap drives a cross into the box Kindred has it at her feet looks to turn in behind Kett on top of her the defender winning the tackle. Todd takes the ball one cutting inside past one past two is stopped by Fretwell. Acle make a change Broghan Scully on for Flatt. Clarke intercepting the ball played up the line for Todd on the right. Larkins getting forwards on the right her cross going long Newcombe with the header to get the ball clear for Wymondham. A change for Wymondham Ladbrooke coming off, Brooklyn Cheal=Ferris on.

Wymondham have stood firm against the early Acle assault at the start of the 2nd half. Attacking up the other end on the left side Waters cutting inside with the ball is brought down. A little further out this time for O’Callaghan left corner of the area sends the ball in long towards the far post, Todd up to head the ball away to safety.

GOAL! Having weathered the storm Wymondham get forwards and score to extend their lead a good run from the back by full back Clarke as the ball won in the middle is spread out to Waters moving into the left channel, Clarke breaking into the box inside her the ball rolled into her sends it wide across the advancing goalkeeper at the top of the six yard box to make it 1-3.

Chasing the ball down on the right side Nicholls wins Wymondham a corner kick. The delivery in near post leaves a Wymondham player floored needing treatment. The Acle players rush to the bench to receive instruction. A change made Shields coming off at the back Erin Wilson coming on. Larkins moves inside to support Pasque, Cooper coming over to right back. Mollie O’Callaghan is struggling with injury needs to come off Ladbrooke is sent back on.

Birchall plays the ball in from the left looking to put Holden through on goal, O’Callaghan can see the ball safely into her body. Todd with an attack on the right into the box the ball defended by Kett, deflected away. Holden with it on left is tackled by Newcombe top of the area. Holden is fouled by Kett 30 yards out Birchall placing the ball in a central position driving in low strikes the wall, then Clarke is fouled as she races out to clear the ball. Another injury Rowland taking the knock this time is taken off Flatt coming back on.

Cheal-Ferris cuts the ball out as Acle look to release Cooper into space on the right. Birchall bringing the ball down strikes it on the half volley form all of 35 yards out her effort not troubling O’Callaghan. Alice Collins comes on for Wymondham in place of Patterson with lass than 10 minutes left to play. Acle push forwards left side the ball into the area defended the deflection coming to Cooper on the right 20 yards out her 1st time shot put wide of goal..

Birchall with the run into the area from the left the ball gets caught in the turf preventing her from striking it early hold’s onto possession taking it to the byline firing a cross in along the six yard box behind Cooper she tries to knock it back inside for Holden can’t find her Fretwell launching the ball up field. Ladbrooke tracking back into the area as Acle break forwards in attack is well placed to put in the block, the ball deflected out of the area Fretwell comes out quickly to clear the threat.

A corner for Acle the ball as Holden wins the ball races forwards into the area Ladbrooke back there again to slide in to block put the ball behind. The delivery from the right into the middle Birchall getting to the ball looks to turn in towards goal, is shoved to the floor I’m right in line with it and it looks a clear penalty but the appeals are dismissed play goes on. More bad news for Acle moments later as they are reduced to 10 Flatt shown a red card as she commits a foul in the middle, poor judgement kicking the ball in frustration.

Wymondham make a change bringing on Louise Hamilton-Rout in the closing stages for Nicholls. Holloway giving way too Patterson back on. Birchall with run up the left tacked by Newcombe. The game moving into stoppage time 6 minutes added. Birchall fouled wide on the left players come forwards from the back, the delivery in towards the near post O’Callaghan taking it cleanly not distracted by the runners closing her down.

GOAL! Acle press forwards looking for a goal attacking right play stretched Birchall and Kett are both down left side inside the six yard box as the defender puts in the challenge, the ball cleared comes back out to Cooper on the right play goes on, Kett struggling to her feet plays Cooper onside as she manages to get across into a central position to block Cooper’s initial strike the rebound coming straight back to her she shifts it inside and buries the ball into the back of the net this time 2-3.

Kindred returns to the field for Birchall as Acle have seconds left to try and find another goal. Is frantic out there, there isn’t time however the final whistle blows and Wymondham are triumphant winning the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time in their history.

Full time Acle United Ladies 2-3 Wymondham Town Ladies

A good contest between two strong sides. Wymondham with the narrow advantage at half-time weathering the Acle assault early in the 2nd half breaking away to extend their lead. Defended well on the whole Fretwell and Kett strong in the middle of defence. A late goal for Acle ending up a consolation. A hard game to call before kick-off the result could have gone either way in the finish. Wymondham having a fantastic season wining promotion now league and cup double. One more game to go in the league back in action in less that 48 hours away to Histon Ladies where they will want to end the season unbeaten I am sure. Acle are back in league action too on Sunday a long trip down to Hertfordshire to play Colney Heath Ladies. Have another chance for silverware with the ERWFL League Cup Final yet to come.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Several contenders once again for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, knew there would be. Megan Todd was excellent for Acle, Alice Ladbrooke strong in the middle for Wymondham as were their centre backs Lauren Kett doing well but like the Norfolk FA’s choice I’m going with Bethany Fretwell a very composed performance throughout the game.

2017/18 Norfolk Women’s County Cup Winners, Wymondham Town Ladies

Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies on there league and cup success.

Norfolk FA always put on a good final the staff always helpful and despite the awful weather a good number made the trip. An enjoyable game managed to keep my notepad dry somehow. 3 more finals coming up next week.

Cup Final Report – Hutton Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

Essex Women’s Trophy Final

Sunday 8th April

Saffron Walden Town FC the venue for today’s football action on Women’s Football East, another Cup Final this season’s Essex Women’s Trophy Final to be contested between Hutton Ladies and Silver End United Ladies.

A new format for the competition this season with the sides knocked out of the earlier rounds off the County Cup going on to contest for the Trophy. Today’s final between two sides that play there football in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Division One. The pair haven’t met in league action as geography see’s Silver End United Ladies play in the North section with Hutton Ladies in the South.

For a 2nd successive season Hutton Ladies reach a cup final, having reached the ERWFL Plate Final last season beating Colney Heath Ladies to life the trophy. Reaching the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this time around are still in with a good chance of defending the ERWFL Plate too having reached the last four, that semi-final scheduled for next weekend at home to Histon Ladies. Struggled for numbers at the beginning of the season which eventually led to their Reserve side folding earlier in the season. Currently 4th in the league are like many sides in the region, have several games left to play following one of the wettest winters in recent season’s aswell as their run in the cups.

Silver End United Ladies are one of the few sides who have played out there fixtures ending their league campaign last weekend today’s final is their last match competitive match of the season. Have had a difficult campaign in the league finishing bottom of the league having struggled for numbers and injuries at the start of the season. Danielle Warnes taking on the role of player-manager at the start of the season. Rebuilding and recruitment during the season recent form has improved and to reach the final of a competition at the end of their season is a fantastic achievement.

Road to the Final

Both sides entering the Trophy in the first round were both up against young sides riding high in their 1st season’s in women’s football amongst the title chasers in Essex Women’s Division One. Hutton Ladies were away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies coming out on top in a close match winning 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Silver End United Ladies were at home to Southend United Ladies a 2-0 victory seeing them into the last 8.

Hutton Ladies were away in the quarter finals taking on Essex Women’s Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers a 2-1 win seeing them book their place in the last 4. Silver End United Ladies were handed an away win against Hutton Ladies Reserves side who have since folded. Hutton Ladies had a home draw in the semi-finals up against Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies another new name this season. A free scoring side, Hutton proved to strong the higher league placed side comfortably into the final with a 6-1 win. A closer looking game in paper for Silver End United Ladies in the semi-finals at home to the current holders of the play Essex Premier Division side, Frontiers Ladies. Silver End United Ladies started the better and leading 2-0 at half-time held off a Frontiers come back in the 2nd half to win the match 2-1 the reach the Trophy final.

The venue for today’s game Saffron Walden Town FC a small stadium in the heart of the town, car parking available beside the ground. two small seated stands either side of the pitch. A large bar and clubhouse with rejoining kitchen serving hot food and drinks. Sadly the weather wasn’t playing ball this Sunday as again like so many others recently the day was overcast with heavy rain falling before the game. It rained all the way down from Norfolk so I wouldn’t have been surprised if the game was in doubt when I got there, but despite being muddy the pitch drains well and was okay for the final.

Today’s prize, The Essex Women’s Trophy

Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Nicola Walker, Kristi McLeavey, Hannah Page (C), Rianne Dimmock, Kaitlin Sugg, Amy Crumpler, Keeley Walker, Lucy Critchell, Kate Lowen & Laura Allen. Subs – Rhiannon Mallard-McHugh, Lucy Blurton, Hayley Critchell & Patrizia Leo.

Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Emily Bambrick, Roxanne Gardner (C), Lindsey Cowell, Danielle Warnes, Danielle Bragg, Stephanie A’Len, Juliana Marques, Rebecca Donnelly, Megan Jiggins & Georgia Bryan. Subs – Laura Borein, Toni Brown, Jennifer Stanhope, Lisa Nepean & Angela Holden.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

The rain still falling as the teams walk out onto the pitch the presentations taking place it’s Silver End wearing light blue shirts with navy shorts and socks to kick-off the 1st half with Hutton lined up opposite in an all red kit with white across their shirt shoulders.Conditions are going to be slippery under foot with the amount of rain that has fallen the ground having already seen one final played today. Hutton win the ball early play it long out to Lucy Critchell breaking down the left wing, Silver End captain Roxanne Gardner at right back sliding in to make the challenge put the ball out for a throw.

Kaitlin Sugg holds Silver End, Danielle Bragg off the ball

Kristi McLeavey winning the ball for Hutton looks to play Kate Lowen in ahead of her on the right taking the ball on down the line slips as she attempts to turn inside giving Emily Bambrick the opportunity to tackle and put the ball out for a throw deep on the right. McLeavey throws it long towards the edge of the Silver End area, Lindsey Cowell getting her head on the ball to clear for Silver End, they counter attack getting the ball up to their attackers, Megan Jiggins bringing the ball down passes it to Georgia Bryan to her left looking for the return pass put into her path as she looks to get in between the Hutton centre backs, Hannah Page, Hutton’s captain intercepts the pass.

Hutton captain, Hannah Page with Silver End United Ladies, Megan Jiggins

A free kick awarded wide on the right for Silver End a chance to put the ball into the area a good delivery into the six yard box Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover does well under with a Silver End player closing her down to punch the ball away, the play halted the challenge deemed unfair against the goalkeeper, Glover takes the free-kick. McLeavey with another long throw in deep inside the Hutton half in the right the ball knocked on across the top of the area Lowen knocks it over the top with Laura Allen breaking in behind, the ball dropping wide of goal before she can get a telling touch.

Hutton have started the game the better pushing players forwards turning play around quickly no one is afforded any time on the ball the pass forwards Allen giving chase Danielle Warnes sliding in to win the ball. Silver End attack up the right Juliana Marques with the ball squared inside players clustering round the top of the area Jiggins with the strike in towards goal, Glover right behind it makes the comfortable save.

Silver End capitalise as a kick out of the area from Glover is intercepted on the right side the ball moved quickly into the middle Jiggins turning and sliding the ball on for Rebecca Donnelly 25 yards out the goal open hits the ball 1st time Glover scrambling to get back across arrives just in time to see the ball bounce wide of the post. A busy opening quarter hour play rushed as both sides move the ball on quickly, Silver End are on the attack, the ball won back by Keeley Walker in her own half the midfielder carries the ball forwards Allen making a good run ahead of her peeling away to the right receives the ball shooting from just outside the area her shot angling in towards goal is straight at Hannah Streetley the goalkeeper making the save. Gardner defends well up against Allen in the next Hutton attack as Walker looks to set her up moving left this time.

Plenty of mud out there

Silver End break forwards players drifting into the middle, Donnelly is in space on the left the ball played forwards she gives chase towards the box, Glover comes rushing out to meet her sliding in to save at the attackers feet, the ball not gathered runs on behind Glover, Donnelly keeping her feet tries to get there McLeavey back on the cover shielding the ball as Glover gets back to smother the ball. Kaitlin Sugg with good hold up play moving towards the right for Hutton get the ball forwards for Allen running in behind, a cry of frustration as she sends her cross behind the Silver End goal.

Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock

Up the other end Rianne Dimmock comes across from the middle of defence to put the ball out for a throw as Donnelly is looking to get in behind for Silver End on the left. Warns puts in the block as Lowen and Allen attempt the one two getting forwards down the right channel for Hutton. Streetley with a good save to deny Allen as Hutton push on down the left the diagonal ball missed by the Silver End defence running onto Allen clear into the box pulls the trigger looking to put the shot back across the keeper Streetley getting a glove on the ball to deflect it away.

Hutton Ladies, Kate Lowen

Hutton look lively breaking forwards through the middle Walker on for Lowen takes a run at the Silver End defence, Bambrick blocking her shot the rebound coming out to Amy Crumpler she attempts the slide the through ball on for Allen, a little too much on the ball Streetley can get out of her goal to gather at the top of her area.

GOAL! Approaching the half hour mark the dead lock is broken as Hutton score the opening goal of the final, pressing forwards through the middle Sugg on the ball riding a tackle from Jiggins as appeals are made for the free-kick Sugg finds herself with time and space on the ball 35 yards out takes on the shot her lobbed effort flying over Streetley to land in the back of the net 1-0.

Hutton Ladies’ Kaitlin Sugg

Crumpler bringing the ball on through the middle after breaking up at Silver End attack looks to exploit a high defensive line a defensive slip seeing Allen run in behind the flag up against Hutton as Lowen is caught offside. Both sides make a change, Toni Brown coming on for Bambrick for Silver End, Hayley Critchell on for Lucy Critchell for Hutton. Stephanie A’Len bringing the ball on for Silver End through the middle support to her right with Marques the ball dinked over the top of the Hutton defence deflected wide brings the 1st corner of the match. Played in from the right a good delivery an equally good claim from Glover jumping at her near post.

A’Len getting on with the ball at her feet again through the middle has Donnelly breaking clear on the left wing taking the ball on up the line squares a cross in towards the near post Jiggins closing in as Glover goes down to save the ball put wide looks to come off the keeper but a goal kick is awarded. Into the closing minutes of the 1st half a throw deep on the right for Silver End the ball played into the area Bryan holding in the ball up right of the goal attempts to lay it back for the advancing runner, Hutton defend the ball deflected wide across the six yard box Jiggins retrieves left side swings a low cross back into the six yard box, Glover down low lays claim to the ball.

Last attack of the half as Hutton break the ball rolled on for Lowen to take on jinking left then right takes on the Silver End defence moving right gets a shot away from inside the box, Streetley is a tall goalkeeper plucks the ball down safely at her near post.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 1-0 Silver End United Ladies

That 1st half passed very quickly the ball wasn’t still for a second both sides eager to get forwards, play broken up in midfield space is available if the pass can find the runner. Both goalkeepers producing saves. A single goal the difference between the sides a narrow advantage for Hutton a well taken goal by Sugg to put them ahead. Silver End far from out of the game plenty to look forwards to in the 2nd half.

Tackle avoidance, Hutton’s Amy Crumpler evades Megan Jiggins slide in the mud

A change for both sides at half-time. Both in attack, Patrizia Leo is on for Hutton in place of Lowen. Angela Holden is on for Silver End in place of Bryan. Hutton to get the 2nd half underway. Silver End win the ball and counter the pass long out to Donnelly on the left wins a corner kick. Players forwards as the delivery comes in from the left knocked on across the face of goal falls to Holden from close range her shot is blocked deflected behind for a corner on the right. A good ball in low across the top of the six yard box, no one challenging Glover as she drops forwards onto the ball.

Silver End United Ladies captain, Roxanne Gardner

Bragg with a excellent tackle to get hold of the ball for Silver End in the centre on for A’Len she runs with the ball before looking to slide Jiggins in on goal Sugg tracking back is able to shield the ball back to her goalkeeper. A free-kick on halfway for Hutton players up to the top of the area as Crumpler plays it forwards the headed clearance coming back to her as she advances takes a shot fro distance her effort blocked Sugg trying to get on the end of the rebound Silver End launch the ball up field.

Crumpler plays the ball on for Critchell getting clear on the left closing in on the byline sends a low cross in towards the six yard box Streetley gets to it first. A’Len with the ball on for Jiggins she is tackled by Walker, the game becoming a little stretched, Silver End knowing they are not out of it sense they can pull the scores level Hutton know they need another goal. Critchell sees another cross in from the left race across the Silver End six yard box. Walker does enough to stop A’Len as the Silver End midfielder looks to press on with the ball. The ball not cleared the diagonal ball is fired in towards the far post Marques closing in, Glover gets out ahead of her to take the ball.

Silver End United Ladies, Stephanie A’Len

Leo on the attack right side fires and early ball into the area a difficult ball for Streetley to deal with gets a glancing touch on the ball in the middle of her six yard box to knock the ball on to the left side Critchell after it regains possession hitting a shot in on the turn, Streetley has her near post covered by then is well placed to make the save. Silver End launch a rapid counter the ball on through the middle Bragg on for Jiggins on the move takes on the early shot outside the area Glover behind it all the way safely gathers.

Straight up the other end the ball played out to Critchell on the left side knocks the ball inside 25 yards out sends a shot in towards goal the rising ball heading for the top corner Streetley makes the save knocking the ball down and away for the corner. The corner delivered low in towards the near post is cleared. Silver End make another change Marques the player coming off on comes Jennifer Stanhope. Silver End are pushing fro the equaliser with 20 minutes of the game left Leo attacking with the ball right side turns in field is tackled by Brown on the edge of the box. Hutton make another change the Critchell’s switching places once again Lucy back on for Hayley.

GOAL! Crumpler has the ball at her feet running towards the Silver End goal his fouled by Bragg in a dangerous position 25 yards out central to goal. It’s Crumpler to take the set-piece strikes it superbly the ball curled over the wall finding the top right hand corner of the goal to double Hutton’s lead with less than a quarter of an hour to play 2-0.

Hutton Ladies, Amy Crumpler

Crumpler involved in the build up once more as Hutton push on taking the ball on through the middle lays the pass out to Leo on the right her early diagonal ball low into the box evades Streetley the ball heading for the goal beyond the Silver End defence back tracking the ball is cleared off the line by Warnes. A throw high on the left for Hutton into Critchell plays the pass from the top of the area 25 yards out on for Allen she takes the ball on shapes too shoot her standing foot going out from under her as she doe so the ball running wide of the far post as a result. A free-kick for Silver End as Gardner is fouled inside her own half almost all go forwards towards the Hutton penalty area. Hutton make a change Crumpler coming off, Lucy Blurton comes on.

GOAL! Closing in on the final 5 minutes of the match and Silver End set up a tense finish to the final as they pull a goal back. The ball played up towards the top left corner of the area Hutton don’t get it clear as Silver End pressure the ball the cross is fired into the middle of the area, A’Len meeting it sends the ball past the keeper into the back of the goal to make it 2-1.

Jiggins plays the ball on for Donnelly looking to come inside to attack the box from the left Dimmock gets there first to clear the ball over her own crossbar for the corner. Allen finds space on the left as the ball is won in midfield by Walker. Shoots from 25 yards out her low ball in gathered by Streetley. Silver End make another substitution Bragg the player coming off, Lisa Nepean on. Nicola Walker gets forwards on the left in support of Allen the attacker getting the ball into her the full back squares a cross into the area intercepted by Warnes. Allen chases the ball into the corner eating up valuable seconds.

Silver Ends, Jennifer Stanhope tackles Hutton’s Nicola Walker

Silver End bring off Gardner late on sending Laura Borein on a straight swap at right back. Donnelly sends a shot over the Hutton cross bar after the referee plays the advantage as she runs onto the ball after Jiggins is fouled in the middle. The last chance of the match as the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate winning the Essex Women’s Trophy.

Full time Hutton Ladies 2-1 Silver End United Ladies

Despite the horrible conditions an entertaining final played at a furious pace both sides never finding any time on the ball. Hutton leading 1-0 at half time were in need of a 2nd goal as Silver End pushed for a reply in the 2nd half, Amy Crumpler’s superb free-kick doubling the advantage. Silver End never gave up though and pulling it back to 2-1 made Hutton work for the result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Sometimes it can be an easy decision… but more often then not it’s a tough one picked a Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A committed battle in the centre of the park play broken up by both sides, plenty of good forwards movement too. One player slightly ahead of the rest and consistent throughout was Hutton’s Amy Crumpler and add on to that her excellent free-kick the make it 2-0 she wins today’s Player of the Match award.

Essex Women’s Trophy winners 17/18, Hutton Ladies

Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning this season’s Essex Women’s Trophy Final.

To Silver End United Ladies congratulations too, a cup final to end a difficult season for the club.

Plenty more games left to squeeze in before the end of the season and possibly some dry ones too. Enjoyed the final despite the weather my thanks to the Essex FA and both the clubs for their assistance today.

Cup Final Report – BBC Essex Women’s County Cup

Thursday 29th March

Brentwood Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

Aveley FC the venue this evening for the final of the BBC Essex Women’s County Cup between Brentwood Town Ladies and the current holders C&K Basildon Ladies.

Winners of the Essex Women’s County Cup for the past 3 successive season’s 4 wins over all C&K Basildon Ladies are aiming for a record equalling 5th win in the competition formed back the 1994/95 season. C&K Basildon’s opponents for this evening’s final are Brentwood Town Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division making their 1st ever County Cup Final appearance.

Last season fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Billericay Town Ladies took C&K Basildon Ladies all the way to extra-time before the FAWPL Southern Division side went on to win their 3rd County Cup in a row. The will be an incentive to Brentwood Town Ladies as they face a tough test against a side in good form playing 2 leagues higher. Currently 6th in the ERWFL Premier Division, Brentwood Town Ladies form has varied this season a poor run earlier in the season seeing them slip down the standings. A change in the management team saw Paul Prosser taking over at 1st team manager. A run of good results has followed including their County Cup success’s. Have also formed a new Reserves side this season competing in Essex Women’s Division One, after a slow start the side is now in a rich vein of form in third position right amongst the title challengers.

C&K Basildon Ladies have improved year on year as, promoted to the FAWPL Southern Division, have not only consolidated their status at that level but progressed up the table reaching the top of the league itself earlier in the season to date their highest league position in the women’s football pyramid. Currently 2nd in the table a point behind leaders Crystal Palace Ladies and have two games in hand. They too have a Reserves side their Development team currently 3rd in the FAWPL Reserve Southern Division.

Road to the Final

Both sides were given a bye in the Essex Women’s County Cup to the quarter final stage along with Billericay Town Ladies, Writtle Ladies and Colchester Town Ladies all from the ERWFL Premier Division. A tough tie for Brentwood Town Ladies in the quarter final draw away to local rivals Billericay Town Ladies a bit of competition always guaranteed between the sides it was Brentwood Town Ladies who were celebrating after the final whistle reaching the semi-finals with a 2-0 win. C&K Basildon Ladies were handed a home tie against Colchester Town Ladies and progressed without kicking a ball as the ERWFL side had unfortunately folded earlier in the season.

Into the semi-finals and Brentwood Town Ladies were at home this time up against fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Writtle Ladies this tie going all the way. The sides drawing 2-2 after 90 minutes and beyond the tie headed into a penalty shootout Brentwood Town Ladies emerging 4-2 winners to reach their 1st ever County Cup Final. C&K Basildon Ladies were also at home in the semi-finals and were at last kicking a ball in the competition hosting Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies from ERWFL Division One South who had come all the way through from the initial Preliminary Round. C&K Basildon Ladies finishing the game the stronger running out 9-0 winners to reach their 4th successive final.

The new stadium at Aveley FC

A new venue for this evenings Essex Women’s County Cup Final, Aveley FC’s brand new stadium. An impressive looking modern main building housing the changing rooms, a very large clubhouse and bar along with fully equipped kitchen. Seating in front of the main building with a balcony inside the clubhouse/bar over looking the pitch too. A smaller seated stand opposite the pitch an all-weather 3G surface another 1st for the Essex Women’s County Cup Final. A wet journey down from Norfolk, thankfully the rain had stopped by the time I arrived at the ground, plenty of parking outside. Overcast by thankfully any rain would stay away for the match.

Brentwood Town Ladies starting XI – Kelly Walker, Amy Vernon, Emma Hooker, Nicole Manning, Chloe Wilkinson, Jess Mills, Danielle Butler (C), Drew Allen, Laura Wheeler, Georgia Holdaway & Marie Barker. Subs – Angela Arnold, Rachel Stittle, Ashley Debnam, Abigail Maynard & Zoe Hinton.

C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Laken Duchar-Clark, Ellie Manning, Hayley West, Danica Revell, Kerry -Anne Stimson, April Bowers, Zoe Rushen (C), Angela Addison, Jay Blackie & Therese Addison. Subs – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Tilly Deacon, Amy Nash & Karissa Rodney.

It’s Basildon to kick off the final 1st half wearing and all red kit with Brentwood lined up opposite wearing navvy shirts and shorts with blue socks. The ball played out long to the left Angela Addison immediately on the move down that flank, along with her twin sister Therese operating down the right side in attack the pair have been a revelation since breaking into the 1st team earlier in the season. Plenty of pace Angela Addison sees her ball knocked on in to the area intercepted the rebound coming straight to Basildon captain Zoe Rushen 20 yards out shoots over from a central position.

Rushen comes forwards again in support of Therese Addison on the right getting past her inside the right channel into the area her low crossed squared across the six yard box, goalkeeper Kelly Walker diving onto the ball for Brentwood. Coming forwards with the ball Laura Wheeler plays it forwards into Drew Allen on the left for Brentwood has help on the inside from Georgia Holdaway receiving the pass takes the ball on looking to get in behind the Basildon defence fouls Basildon’s Danica Revell in the process the free kick going against her.

The Addison sisters are lively attacking down the flanks for Basildon on either side breaking forwards have the Brentwood defence pinned back, Therese’s cross from the right swerving over the crossbar. A coming together between Brentwood at the back between Emma Hooker and Amy Vernon as the ball is played long from Basildon up to Therese Addison sees the attacking running in clear behind, the ball skipping off the 3G surface Walker is able to advance towards the edge of her box and clear before the attacker can close her down.

Walker then produces a great save to deny Angela Addison scoring the opening goal as she breaks clear on the left side pushing on into the top of the area before firing in a fierce shot, angling in near post Walker beats the ball away sending it spinning away across the face of goal out for a corner kick. A good delivery from the corner coming in centrally Jay Blackie rising to meet it with her head 8 yards out on target is caught high by Walker in the Brentwood goal. A dominant start to the match from Basildon, Brentwood opportunities to attack are limited, Wheeler plays the ball over the top for Chloe Wilkinson in attack to try and chase down too much to do as the ball is gathered by goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles at the top of her area.

GOAL! 13 minutes on the clock and Basildon open the scoring a long range diagonal ball from midfield picking out Angela Addison breaking in behind the Brentwood defence coming into a central position controls the ball in the area 10 yards out before slotting a low shot past Walker to make it 0-1.

Basildon continue to press forwards a good ball from Blackie in the middle coming to receive the ball sends Therese Addison away on the right her cross going long across the six yard box. Blackie charges down Walker’s clearance as she comes out of her area to clear the ball the ball rebounding away to her right, no Basildon player is there to capitalise as Brentwood captain Danielle Butler gets back to hook the ball clear.

Ellie manning comes on from right back to help Therese Addison the ball played on for her the attacker taking on the Brentwood defence into the area lays the ball back towards April Bowers arriving at the top of the area opening up her body to shoot puts her effort wide across goal at the far post. Bowers is the furthest forwards again for Basildon moments later throwing herself at the ball crossed in towards the far post from the right can’t quiet connect with the ball inside the six yard box.

Brentwood are busy in defence, Nicole Manning making a vital interception inside the area, Marie Barker back to win the ball passes onto Wheeler she looks to get Holdaway forwards, Hayley West winning the tackle against her at the back for Basildon, a swift counter attack the ball into Kerry-Anne Stimson on for Angela Addison breaking down the left side a mazy run on the ball the Brentwood defence back pedalling, tries to set up her sister moving into a central position top of the area, Manning cutting the pass out.

The Addison sisters look to link up in attack once more both breaking away down either flank Therese putting the cross in earlier along the top of the box Angela with the knock on into the area Manning stays with her keeping her eye on the ball putting in the defensive block as the attacker goes to shoot the ball turned behind for the corner. An very good delivery from the corner on the left side an inswinging ball whipped in with pace Walker under pressure beating the ball away on her goal line before Basildon can pounce on the loose ball play is stopped with a Brentwood player down on the line.

A strong tackle by Wheeler on Blackie at the top of the area sees the Brentwood player win the ball after Ellie Manning gets forwards to cross into her from the right. Walker rushing out of her area slides into to win the ball from Angela Addison as the attacker bursts clear, does get the ball but takes Addison out too the referee awarding the free-kick. Rushen a dead ball specialist sends a shot from the angle in on goal Walker palming it up over her crossbar makes the save. The corner whipped in with pace towards the near post Angela Addison attempting the diving header can’t get anything on the ball as Brentwood scramble it clear.

Laken Duchar-Clark with the ball on the right on for Bowers played into Rushen her shot from distance held comfortably by the keeper. Brentwood with a rare attack Jess Mills with the ball into Wilkinson has support coming from Barker she passes the ball out to Drew Allen on the left side looking to come in field now way past Ellie Manning as the full back puts in the challenge to regain possession of the ball. A caution for Mills as she blocks Angela Addison on the left the ball into the area defended by Hooker. Therese Addison takes on Vernon down the right getting the better of the full back wrong footing her top of the area gets inside pulling the trigger drags her low shot wide across the face of goal. Bowers with the ball for Basildon 30 yards out central goes to shoot her effort charged down is enough to deflect the ball narrowly wide of the far post a corner awarded.

GOAL! Closing on in on the last five minutes of the 1st half Basildon double their lead another good delivery from the corner a high ball played into the crowded six yard box a Brentwood head on the ball knocks the ball away from goal dropping to the edge of the area. Angela Addison eyes must light up as the ball is presented straight to her she strikes it sending a thunderbolt through the crowd into the back of the net beyond 0-2.

Angela Addison pressing with the ball turns inside from the left into the area her cross along the six yards box Blackie letting the ball run across her turns and shoots Allen back in defence blocking the ball it spins behind for the corner. Playing in short towards the top of the area the shot is taken the ball striking to post, players from both sides scrambling to get to the ball Walker has gone down with a knock the referee stopping play so she can receive treatment.

4 minutes of stoppage time to be played Basildon ending the 1st half as strongly as they started it pushing forwards, a cross squared in low from the left Walker misses her low catch at the top of her six yard box plenty of players in the area the ball pin-balling around as Brentwood put in the blocks a shot from Therese Addison squeezes through Walker recovering well back on her feet on her line saves with her legs the ball deflected away.

Rushen getting into the area sees her shot charged down by Vernon deflected away for a corner kick. The delivery in from the right going long across the top of the six yard box Angela Addison up to head the ball, Brentwood have the far post covered the defending the ball clear a late chance for Brentwood to break the ball played long Wilkinson giving chase, Runnacles having not had much to do in the 1st half alert and out to the edge of her area to gather the ball into her gloves.

Half-time Brentwood Town Ladies 0-2 C&K Basildon Ladies

A 2-0 half-time lead for Basildon have dominated the 1st half in attack, Brentwood have been defending well kept busy at the back keeping the scoreline down. Walker making some fine saves too. Haven’t created much going forwards with no attempts at goal pushed back into their own areas for large spells getting players up in support of Wilkinson in attack hasn’t been easy, the Addison twins posing a real threat on either flank for Basildon with Blackie, Rushen and Bowers though the middle all capable of creating something from distance if given room on the ball. At 2-0 however the final is far from being settled.

A double change for Brentwood at the break, Mills and Wheeler off 20 and 3 on for Brentwood but without a final team-sheet to confirm which number belong to which player I can tell you no more. Brentwood to get the 2nd half underway I’ve come across to the opposite side to sit in the mainstand for the 2nd half the venue impressive under the floodlights. Basildon with the early attack regaining possession of the ball in the middle Rushen on for Angela Addison breaking in behind on the left the cross fired in centrally Walker coming out slides in well to save at Blackie’s feet.

GOAL! Ins’t long before Basildon extend their lead however as 3 minutes into the 2nd half Angela Addison completes her hat-trick. A lovely flighted long pass by Rushen up towards Addison inside the area left side great control the attacker turning inside her marker before driving her strike past the keeper into the back of the net 0-3.

Brentwood are more than prepared to have a go at Basildon themselves when they can get forwards Barker receiving the ball in the middle brings it on before playing it forwards for Wilkinson she turns and drives at the Basildon defence, Revell standing her ground puts in the tackle. Holdaway trying to get a little more advanced to support Wilkinson 2nd half chests the ball down well moving to the left plays the ball inside West intercepting for Basildon the pass sent long with Angela Addison breaking away down the left touching in on into the area shoots putting the ball wide across the face of goal.

Manning takes the ball on down the right for Basildon crossing the ball in low towards Therese Addison positioned near post 3 yards out closely marked her touch wrong-footing the Brentwood defender she gets a shot away Walker with the instinctive close range save beats the ball away. Basildon continue their dominance pushing players forwards, Barker back sliding in to stop Bowers setting up Blackie. Manning on down the right away her cross put in early into the area Walker keeps her eye on the ball catching cleanly as Bowers closes her down.

A shot at goal for Brentwood as the ball is played inside Wilkinson letting fly from 25 yards out her effort dragged wide doesn’t trouble Runnacles. Stimson has been the holding midfielder for Basildon a rare foray forwards she sees her shot from 25 yards out charged down. A corner on the right for Basildon whipped in near post defended well Brentwood try to break but the ball is lost. Therese Addison back to goal outside the box sees the ball into her body turns well moving inside onto to her right foot to shoot, Walker making another excellent save.

Brentwood get forwards the ball rolled out to Holdaway on the left her pass on for Allen she sends a squared cross into the area, Runnacles catching before Wilkinson can reach it. Walker is down injured looks painful as she stays down after colliding with Addison. Is a long pause in play as she receives treatment sadly cannot continue and has to come of Abigail Maynard the substitute goalkeeper onto the field. Play resumes Vernon with a fine tackle to stop Therese Addison on the right as she comes inside looking to take her on.

GOAL! Moving into the final 15 minutes Basildon extend their lead, Angela Addison the provider this time as she is put away clear on the left side plenty of pace she fires the ball into the middle of the area aiming for Blackie, who shows great composure to let the ball run across her opening up her body to turn the ball wide past the keeper and on into the bottom corner of the net for a 0-4 lead.

Brentwood go straight up the other end from the restart the game a little stretched showing a willingness to attack Runnacles has to make a save as the ball comes to Allen central 25 yards out has time to pull the trigger the ball arrowing in high on target Runnacles behind it tipping the shot up over her crossbar. The corner from the right going long and out at the far post. Brentwood come forwards Holdaway inside to Barker onto Wilkinson she tries to play Holdaway in behind on the left Manning stepping up to intercept the ball.

A difficult ball for Maynard to deal with up the other end the high ball flung into the box from the left the keeper doing well to pluck the ball down from under her crossbar, Vernon kicking the ball away for the corner.

GOAL! From the 81st minute corner Basildon extend their lead, the delivery from Manning again very good fired in along the top of the six yards box the perfect high for Rushen who gets up highest to put her head on the ball and drive it into the goal 0-5.

A triple change for Basildon follows the goal with Runnacles, West and Bowers off, on come goalkeeper Jamie-Lee Bamford, Tilly Deacon in defence and Karissa Rodney in attack. Basildon press on winning a corner on the right the ball into the six yard box headed clear by Brentwood, Revell onto the ball outside the area screws her 20 yard shot wide of goal. The Brentwood defence will have a few ball prints adorning their bodies come the morning as they put in a succession of blocks inside the box in their determination to prevent Basildon scoring as repeated shots are taken, Manning, Vernon and Allen all putting their bodies in the way of the ball.

Rodney with a chance to score for Basildon as the Addison sisters combine in attack Angela with the cross in long from the left Therese with the touch to square the ball back into Rodney central scoops the ball up over the crossbar from six yards out a deflection spotted a corner awarded. The keeper with a good save at close range from a Rodney shot at the near post.

GOAL! Into stoppage time a bit to be played with the injury to Walker and Basildon score a sixth goal breaking from a Brentwood attack Duchar-Clark with the interception plays the past long the Brentwood defence stretched Rodney away in behind on the left Angela Addison running central into the box the cross squared into her she stays on her feet as the challenge comes in digging the ball out of her feet and slotting it past the keeper for her 4th of the match, putting Basildon into a 0-6 lead.

GOAL! The lead is further extended 4 minutes into stoppage time a free-kick wide right outside the box as Vernon up ended Therese Addison. Rushen over the set-piece goes for goal the ball going long towards the far post plenty of pace on the ball finds in gap in the crowded six yard box and nestles inside the post 0-7.

Full time Brentwood Town Ladies 0-7 C&K Basildon Ladies

That’s it the final whistle blows and C&K Basildon Ladies win a fifth recorded equalling Essex Women’s County Cup Final a fourth successive County Cup win too. A dominant display right from the off getting players forwards. Brentwood knowing they would take some stopping battled well and defended well for large parts of the game but without being able to get the ball up the other end for any length of time the Basildon attacks were coming at them frequently. Some fine saves from Walker keeping the scoreline down was just 3-0 going into the final 10 minutes of the game. Basildon though are a strong side and have were composed and disciplined at the back.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

A fairly straightforward choice for this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Lively right from the start and full of running with or without the ball at her feet creating plenty of goal scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates, and scoring 4 well taken goals in the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup it is of course Angela Addison.

C&K Basildon Ladies, 5 times Essex Women’s County Cup winners

Congratulations to C&K Basildon Ladies on their record equalling County Cup success winning a 4th successive final. Ultimately a 7-0 loss but congratulation to go to Brentwood Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever County Cup Final. An enjoyable trip to Aveley FC this evening.

Cup Final Report – Northampton Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

One more League Cup Final for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog to cover before the end of the season and a trip over to Raunds Town FC in Northamptonshire to watch Northampton Town Ladies play Peterborough United Ladies just one goal extra scored saw Northampton Town Ladies pip their rivals to the league title as they finished level on points and goal difference, could they make it a league and cup double or would Peterborough United Ladies win their 1st piece of silverware to end their 1st season together on a high.

Cup Final Report – Northampton Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

The 2015/16 women’s football season is almost over the league games are all complete, just a couple of games left to watch, the 1st in Northamptonshire a trip to Raunds Town FC to watch the League Cup Final between Northampton Town Ladies & Peterborough United Ladies.

A league and cup double is on for Northampton Town Ladies as they pipped Peterborough United Ladies to the Northamptonshire Women’s Division One title by the narrowest of margins after the two sides finished level on points (27) and matched each others goal difference (26) it came down to goals scored and with 37 scored over 36, Northampton Town Ladies were crowned Champions. A small league with just 5 sides competing the two sides faced each other 3 times over the season Northampton Town Ladies winning 2 both at home and Peterborough United Ladies winning their home fixture.

Road to the Final

Northampton Town Ladies started the competition with an away game in the 1st Round playing 2nd Division side, Rothwell Corinthians Ladies Reserves won through to the quarter finals with a comfortable 5-0 win and progressed to the semi-finals without kicking a ball as they were awarded a home win against Kettering Town Ladies. Faced 2nd Division leaders Corby Town Ladies in the semi-final at Corby, Northampton Town Ladies won the game 4-0 to reach the League Cup Final.

Formed this season, Peterborough United Ladies were awarded a home win in the 1st Round of the competition against 2nd Division side Thorplands Ladies. Won big in the quarter final on the road playing 2nd Division, Earls Barton Ladies scoring 7 goals without reply to reach the semi-finals and a home tie against fellow 1st Division side Thrapston Town Ladies last seasons beaten finalists. edged the game with a 2-1 to reach the League Cup Final. Come into the final off the back of a special night for the team last Saturday getting to play at the ABAX Stadium home of Peterborough United FC in a friendly match against West Ham United Ladies

The venue for today’s game Raunds Town FC, hosting the Northamptonshire Women’s & Girls Football League (NWaGFL) Finals day, 5 finals in total starting at 9:30am U12s, U14s U16s plus 2 Ladies Finals the League Plate and Cup. The ground itself is easy to find on the outskirts of Raunds, plenty of parking a clubhouse and bar, refreshments available, a small seated stand on one side of the pitch which considering where we are in the football calender was in excellent condition, one of the best playing surfaces I’ve see in a good while. Been craving an ice-cream for a few days now too, so to see an ice-cream van in the carpark I was happy. The weather was fantastic, bright and sunny, not too hot, ideal for a game of football.

Northampton Town Ladies starting XI – Joanna Daniels, Megan Rayment, Isla Fleury, Claire Stancliffe, Eden Brown (C), Georgia Tear, Steph Knight, Amy Marshall, Zoe Boote, Cloe Woodward & Cesca Partridge.
subs – Aimee Smith

Peterborough United Ladies starting XI – Amy Martin, Sephania Chaudhuri, Fiona Plumb, Kathryn Lusk, Laura Tonkin, D’lacy Phillips (C), Emily Smith, Amy Challis, Tash Applegate, Eleanor Boothman & Bryony Fox.
subs – Courtney Edwards, Jenna Lusk, Georgie Elsom, Emma Stevenson & Jessica Harvey.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Peterborough to get the Cup Final underway 1st half wearing blue shirts and shorts with white socks with Northampton lined up opposite wearing claret shirts and socks with white shorts. Northampton get the ball off Peterborough straight away, Georgia Tear getting stuck in, the ball being played down the right wing for Amy Marshall to go after, keeping it in looks to turn inside Laura Tonkin closes her down the ball comes off her for a throw to Peterborough.

Peterborough bring the ball up the left side attacking the ball played into Eleanor Boothman in attack with Bryony Fox, a throw deep in the half brings the 1st corner of the match, is delivered long to the far post Northampton get a head on it and the break is on the ball sent long, ends up all the way back into the gloves of Peterborough goalkeeper, Amy Martin.

In goal for Northampton, Joanna Daniels is called into action racing off her line to slide in and stop the ball as Fox is played in behind the defence by Amy Challis bringing the ball down the right side of the attack for Peterborough. Clear to see these are to closely matched sides early on a competitive opening exchange no one afforded any time on the ball in the middle of the park the ball is popped back by Peterborough to defender, Fiona Plumb the centre back sends a great ball long out to the left with Tash Applegate looking to move forwards, Northampton captain, Eden Brown comes across to challenge for the ball leaves Applegate on the ground as the ball is blocked runs harmlessly into the box. Applegate receives treatment on the pitch and is okay to continue.

Brown along with centre back partner Claire Stancliffe are dealing well with the Peterborough attack in the opening 20 minutes as they try to play the diagonal ball into the centre for the strikers to run onto whenever they get the ball in the wide positions, Fox more than willing to try and force her way through the middle to get into the area.

Northampton Town Ladies captain, Eden Brown

Northampton’s Marshall coming inside plays the ball long out to the right side, Cloe Woodward goes after it, looks to be a lost cause but she manages to keep it in knocking it down the line, goes after it, Tonkin has come across with her and turns the ball behind for a corner kick as Woodward looks to cross the ball into the box. The ball is send high into the Peterborough area, in the centre, Brown jumps high trying to get something on it doesn’t as it drops far side to Cesca Partridge 12 yards out lashes the ball in towards goal the shot is cleared by the defender covering the near post.

Northampton keep the ball in the Peterborough half, are awarded a free kick 20 yards out to the left of goal Woodward is over the set piece lines up the shot gets it on target coming in Tonkin is in it’s path and sends in clear of her area. Boothman steals in on the ball just over the halfway line pulling out to the left takes it forwards before attempting to release Fox into the box (I was going to type it at some point wasn’t I?) too much weight on the ball allows Daniels to come and gather before Fox can reach it. A fast paced game no sooner is the ball up one end then it’s up the other, Northampton have a throw halfway inside the Peterborough half on the right side finds its way inside to Woodward drifting into the area right corner, looks to head the ball on with Partridge ahead of her near post, Partridge looks to head it on, Martin moving across has the post covered and claims the ball low however the flag is already raised as Partridge was offside.

Cloe Woodward heads the ball in for Cesca Partridge

Emily Smith getting hold of the ball for Peterborough in the middle carries it out towards the right with Challis down the right making the run for her, given the ball she looks to come inside knock the ball on it is cut out put behind for a corner kick. A good delivery played in at a good height, Fox rises to meet it in the middle of the goal heading the ball down on target, Martin is well placed to get her gloves on the dropping ball make the save.

Bryony Fox gets her head on the ball from the corner for Peterborough United Ladies

Challis has the ball wide right for Peterborough tries to thread the pass forwards for Fox to get after, trying to get into the area, the foul goes against as she bundles Brown to the ground. A change for Peterborough, captain D’lacy Phillips comes off the armband handed to Plumb as assistant player manager Jenna Lusk comes on. A free kick for Peterborough wide on the left just over the halfway line as Brown fouls Applegate, the ball is delivered long into the Northampton area, Boothman jumps a back header sends the ball towards the goal, Daniels gathers, the offside flag is up against the attacker.

Northampton make a substitution Aimee Smith coming on for Isla Fleury. Boothman peels out to the left as Smith picks up the ball in the middle sends the pass out to her, Fox comes across looking to spin in behind the Northampton defence as the ball is played forwards into the area, Daniels seeing the threat comes off her line and sliding in claims the ball. Marshall and Boote have switched sides for Northampton now on the left Marshall on the ball comes central plays the ball out to Boote on the right driving on with it down the line stands the cross up into the box, jumping Tonkin gets a glancing header on the ball sending it on across the six yard box falls to Partridge at the far post, gets the shot away, Martin has gotten across her goal and holds onto the ball.

Northampton Town Ladies, Georgia Tear

Applegate wins Peterborough a corner on the left, the ball is whipped in central under the bar, Daniels with a strong punch clears the ball sending it out to the left another corner is won this one played up the line with Smith getting hold of the ball taking it inside is 25 yards out fires in the shot, Daniels is behind the ball and has the ball in her gloves.

Smith fouls Tear in the centre circle inside the Peterborough half, Brown plays the ball up into the area, Jenna Lusk gets her head on the ball clearing it, Northampton soon have it back Steph Knight playing the ball out to Boote wide right, sends her cross in dissecting the six yard box, Partridge is racing in to meet it, Martin gets it into her gloves first. Late Northampton pressure in and around the Peterborough penalty box brings them a corner kick on the left a fantastic ball played in finds Woodward on the penalty spot, drills a shot back across to the near post area, the defender covering the post blocks getting it clear

Applegate having come over to the right has the ball with support from Challis the pass is send forwards for Fox to attack the Northampton area, Brown gets back on her makes the tackle the ball out for a throw is taken quickly put into Fox right side of the area, Daniels comes racing out to the edge of the area to close her down, Fox gets the shot away past the keeper, but off target.

Half-time Northampton Town Ladies 0-0 Peterborough United Ladies

Easy to see why these to sides finished so closely in the league, a competitive match, played at a fast tempo on a good surface, both creating chances without overly testing the goalkeepers. 0-0 at half-time it looks like it’ll be an odd goal to 2 that settle it, just a question of which side will score. Peterborough have more options available on the bench that could tell as the 2 sides start to tire 2nd half. If not then the game goes straight to penalties no extra-time being played today.

Northampton get the 2nd half underway. Fleury is back on for Knight. Peterborough have made a double change at half time, Fox and Challis off Georgie Elsom and Emma Stevenson on both in midfield, Applegate is now further forwards in attack. They start brightly winning a throw deep on the left the ball is sent into the area, Stancliffe clears. Northampton come forwards with the ball Marshall has it on the right plays the pass inside to Partridge 25 yards out lines up the strike hits the ball low and hard, rolls wide across the goal face.

Georgie Elsom on for the 2nd half for Peterborough United Ladies brings the ball under control

Another free kick for Northampton inside the centre circle a chance for Brown to play the ball long into the area, a great delivery, Partridge is the player looking to connect as it bounces, close just evades her as it runs out for a goal kick. A free kick for Peterborough closer to the target, 25 yards out to the right side of the box as Stancliffe fouls Stevenson. Applegate is over it takes it quickly whipping the ball in towards the near post, Daniels moves quickly getting across to palm the ball down into the ground and claims.

A surging run from Peterborough’s Smith through the middle, looks to thread the ball through the centre backs for Applegate, she has strayed offside however and the move breaks down. Moments later the same thing happens only this time the flag doesn’t go up Applegate is clear after the ball, Daniels comes running out to kick clear inside the D, mis-kicks the ball it is sliced to her left, she reacts quickest throws herself on the loose ball looked mighty close to being handled outside the area as her roll takes her inside, the officials don’t give anything play continues. Knight returns to the field for Northampton with Woodward off.

Northampton Town Ladies, Isla Fleury looking to go past Peterborough United Ladies, Emma Stevenson

Stevenson links up with Applegate on the right side as Peterborough attack, the ball rolled down the line for Applegate gets it and plays it inside to Stevenson who takes the ball into the box, her touch is a little heavy the ball getting away from her, Applegate is chasing in to the area, gets onto the ball, scuffs the shot, which sees it run safely into the keepers gloves.

The game continues to be played at a furious pace the ball travelling from one end of the pitch to the other then back again, Northampton’s Rayment brings the ball forwards plays it forwards for Marshall they win a corner kick the ball is sent in near side flashes all the way through to Partridge once more standing free far side outside the area this time, unleashes a shot too many bodies to get through the shot is blocked, deflected up into the air and cleared. Both sides make a change, Partridge coming off for Northampton, Woodward comes back on. Boothman off for Peterborough, Jessica Harvey comes on to join Applegate in attack.

Northampton Town Ladies, Megan Rayment

Northampton gets powerful shot in from 30 yards out, didn’t see who hit it the ball comes flying in towards Martin above her head she doesn’t have much time to react, is straight at her throws her gloves up, gets contact with the ball has done enough to kill it as it drops behind her, for a second it looks like it might creep over the line but turning Martin snatches the ball into her gloves.

Harvey looks to get herself in behind the Northampton defence, her forward ball is deflected behind for a corner on the left. Is a great ball flung in across the six yard box drops to Applegate 3 yards out unmarked at the far post, meets the ball on the volley looking to turn it home, sends the attempt over the crossbar.

Meeting the corner kick at the far post Tash Applegate volleys over

Peterborough are starting to build momentum seeing a little more of the ball, Smith plays the ball through the centre with Harvey giving chase, Brown getting back on her to win the tackle before she gets into the box. Coming again on the right Peterborough win another corner kick this one is played into the middle of the six yard box dropping for Harvey she gets a glancing header on the ball turning it on target, Daniels flings out an arm knocking the ball down into the ground and taking it on the bounce.

GOAL! The deadlock is broken with a little over 10 minutes left on the clock. Harvey busy since joining the action closes down Stancliffe at the back challenges and comes away with the ball breaking in behind into the box is one on one with the keeper, keeps her composure right of target to send the ball across Daniels and into the back of the net 0-1.

Jessica Harvey scores the opening goal of the
Northamptonshire Ladies League Cup Final

Northampton go on the attack from the restart get a corner kick on the right the ball whipped in central close to goal is claimed comfortably by Martin. Chaudhuri bringing the ball on plays it on for Smith coming across to the right who plays it on down the right for Harvey coming inside as she comes level with the top of the area squares the ball into Applegate inside the D, back to goal she controls the ball well flicking it up and looking to hit on the turn sends her shot over the crossbar.

Northampton send Partridge back on with Rayment coming off as they go to 3 at the back needing a goal with 5 minutes of normal time left. The action continues either end late on in the game, Applegate on the left stays up as she is clipped going beyond squeezes a cross into the box, Daniels comes and claims near post the ball launched up field. Knight attempts to play Woodward into the area, Kathryn Lusk cuts intercepts. The game moves into injury time, Northampton have another corner on the right played into Woodward coming to the ball she tries to hook the ball on ends up lifting it over the goal. Again the ball is at Woodwards feet as Northampton push bodies forwards 25 yards out shoots pulls the ball wide of goal. Little time left Tonkin plays the ball into Smith 30 yards out takes on the shot a viscous strike on the half volley flies in towards goal, Daniels with a fantastic save throws herself at the ball tipping it over her crossbar

GOAL! From the resulting corner kick Peterborough put the result beyond doubt as they score again the ball from the right is fired in to the face of the area with Applegate free beyond the D, connects with the ball hitting it back in on the volley smashing it across the box it finds its way into the far corner of the net 0-2 Applegate wheels away in celebration performing a double somersault as her team mates rush over to celebrate virtually no time left the final whistle blows and Peterborough United Ladies win the Northamptonshire Ladies League Cup Final.

Tash Applegate scores in the closing seconds to make it 2-0 to Peterborough United Ladies

Have seen several finals this season and this one is right up there with the best, a good competitive contest between two evenly matches sides who know each other well, might well have gone either way right up until the final 10 minutes and Northampton kept trying until the end.

Peterborough United Ladies 2015/16 Northamptonshire Ladies League Plate Winners

Congratulations to Peterborough United Ladies on winning the Northamptonshire Ladies League Cup.

There were 4 other finals that took place earlier in the day starting at 9;30am the U12s final was won by AFC Rushden & Diamonds who beat Earls Barton 4-0. That was followed by a 2-1 victory for Welland Valley over Parklands Tigers in the u14s final.

In the U16s final Gregory Celtic ran out 6-1 winners against Welland Valley, then in the Ladies Plate Final, Woodford United beat Rothwell Corinthians Ladies Reserves 4-0 to lift the trophy. Congratulations to all the winners.

They may have lost out on the cup and making it a double celebration but Northampton Town Ladies are league Champions and were presented with their trophies after the final.

Northampton Town Ladies, Northamptonshire Women’s Division One Champions

Another enjoyable final, my thanks to both sides for giving me their assistance with the team line-ups today always appreciated.

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

The 2nd Final of the day at the County Ground featured Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies in the ERWFL League Cup. A 3pm kick-off the whole match report as featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog can be viewed below.

Cup Final Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

On to the 2nd of today’s ERWFL Cup Finals a 3 o’clock kick-off between Colchester Town Ladies and Silver End United Ladies as they contest this season’s League Cup.

The ERWFL League Cup will belong to an Essex side after today’s final with both finalists travelling west to the County Ground to contest the cup. Colchester Town Ladies the only ERWFL Premier Division representative on Finals day with Silver End United Ladies playing in just their 1st season at this level reaching the final.

Road to the Final

A straight knock-out competition open to all the clubs playing in the 3 ERWFL leagues the Division One sides in the East & West league contest the opening two rounds. Colchester Town Ladies entered the competition at the 3rd Round stage an away trip to the the ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Billericay Town Ladies. Won the game 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals drawn at home this time to face fellow Premier Division side, Haringey Borough Women. A single goal scored by Chelsea Forde seeing them into the semi-finals and another home tie against AFC Sudbury Ladies enjoying a good 1st season in the Premier Division. I went along to this game was a classic cup tie a 7 goal thriller Sudbury taking the lead only for Colchester to come back and lead twice themselves before eventually going on to win 4-3 to reach the ERWFL League Cup Final.

Silver End United Ladies started the competition in the 1st Round away to Division One West side Sawbridgeworth Town WFC, won the game 3-2 in extra-time. Were on the road again in the 2nd Round a tough away trip to another Division One West side, Offley & Stopsley Ladies won the game 4-1 to set up a home tie against Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies in the 3rd Round. Emerged 2-1 winners to reach the quarter-finals and play fellow Division One East side West Billericay Ladies at home another 4-1 victory setting up a semi-final clash at home to Stevenage Ladies who would go on to be crowned ERWFL Premier Division Champions, Silver End United Ladies the underdogs found themselves a goal down battling hard going into the closing minutes of the game, Rebecca Hollocks scored 2 goals to see them win and reach the ERWFL League Cup Final.

Again played at the County Ground a 2 hour break between matches, allowed me the chance to destroy a sausage, egg and bacon bap, refuelled to the 2nd Final of the day, still bright and sunny as the two sides were led out onto the pitch.

Colchester Town Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Elizabeth Blacklock, Zoe Smith, Ellen Powles, Lucy Jones, Charlotte Bryant, Alex Brewis-Shepard, Paige Wakefield, Megan Bamber, Georgia Box & Chelsea Forde.

subs – Kira Fitzpatrick, Stacey Roper & Laura Guyon.

Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Abi Head, Georgia Raby, Lindsey Cowell, Roxanne Gardener, Jodie Osborne, Dani Warnes, Alex Bailess, Rebecca Hollocks (C) Lynsey Bowman & Rebekah Henderson.

subs – Nikita Walker, Helen Alder, Paula Drane, Amy Evans & Michelle Taylor

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Colchester wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks to kick off the 1st half in the ERWFL League Cup Final against Silver End who are lined up wearing sly blue coloured shirts with navy shorts and socks. The ball goes long to the left side early towards Megan Bamber on the left, wins a couple of throws as she makes progress down the wing before the ball eventually played into the area is headed clear.

A quiet start to the game the ball spending alot time being exchanged between the midfield players as they look impose themselves on the ball. Charlotte Bryant plays the ball out to Bamber making a run on the left wing again, lifts the cross in towards the Silver End goal rising towards the near post goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley is well placed to claim the ball. Paige Wakefield brings the ball forwards for Colchester has Georgia Box on her right rolls the ball out to her taking it further down the wing cuts back inside as she reaches the top of the box playing it back to Wakefield who then looks to play it into captain Alex Brewis-Shephard in a central position outside the box, misses her shot the ball running on to Bamber far side, left drives forwards lifting the ball into the area, Streetley calls for it and gathers.

Wakefield gets herself on the ball for Colchester again coming forwards has Zoe Smith ahead of her in the centre, playing the ball to her she looks to hit the shot, Silver End defender, Abi Head gets her body in the way to make the block. Box gets in behind the Silver End defence on the right makes a run towards goal into the area, Jodie Osborne comes across to win the tackle put the ball behind for a corner kick.

Silver End United Ladies, Georgia Raby looking to get ahead of Colchester’s Georgia Box

Silver End look to get the ball forwards themselves Alex Bailess plying it up to Silver End captain, Rebecca Hollocks, strong on the ball, holds it up well outside the Colchester area, turns back inside looking for an opening to send n a shot, none available plays the pass across to Rebekah Henderson free to the right, goes for the shot fires the ball straight at Colchester’s goalkeeper, Nikita Runnacles.

Lynsey Bowman out wide right for Silver End brings the ball forwards, Hollocks looks to provide a run ahead of her moving into the channel, can’t get past Colchester’s Lucy Jones the ball out for a throw, ending up back with Runnacles, Colchester hit Silver End with a quick counter attack the ball played long to Bamber on the left the early cross is fired in with pace, Wakefield furthest forwards in the middle improvises as the ball runs behind her run looks to deflect it towards goal with her heel, doesn’t get enough contact with the ball runs wide for a goal kick. Running with the ball on the right Box looks to come inside Wakefield is in the area looks to play her in, she slips as she goes to shot the ball rolls harmlessly in towards Streetley who gets down to see it into her gloves.

An early change for Colchester as they bring Bamber off, Kira Fitzpatrick coming on to the wide left attacking position. Having rode out the opening 15 minutes of sustained Colchester possession Silver End are starting to find a little more time on the ball. The ball is put long into Bowman on the right 20 yards out meets it on the volley slicing the effort wide of goal. A free kick is won on halfway, Roxanne Gardner to play the ball up towards the Colchester area, Hollocks gets up highest to header the all across to Henderson to the left of goal takes on the strike smashes the ball against Colchester defender, Elizabeth Blacklock.

Silver End United Ladies, Lynsey Bowman

Bowman finds some space to run into on the left as Hollocks central holds the ball up before laying out out into space for her to chase down, getting hold of it driving into the box let’s fly her shot hits the side netting. Runnacles is out quickly to block Bowman as she is played in behind on the left again, blocking the ball it goes out for a throw on the left. Box and Fitzpatrick have switched flanks, Box is over on the left reaching the top of the area plays the ball inside into Bryant who hits the 1st time shot in towards goal lifts the attempt over the crossbar.

Silver End get caught with numbers up the pitch as they lose the ball in attack Ellen Powles playing the ball through the middle Box is in clear to run at the Silver End penalty area, Head comes across and tackles well getting the ball away from Box out to the right side, Fitzpatrick looks to get to the ball smash it back into the area ends up smashing it into the Head’s face leaves the defender pole-axed on the ground. Fear she might be knocked out but after a few moments is up albeit holding the right side of her jaw a painful one.

Bryant passes the ball to Powles looks to go long hit the ball on the diagonal with Smith looking for it central making a run to get into the area, very nearly succeeds the pass just needs a touch and Smith is clear on goal, just evades her boot. Colchester get themselves a corner on the right fired in the ball is headed in towards goal, Streetley punches it away falls to the edge of the area , Osborne puts in the block as the shot is fired in.

GOAL! Colchester have been pressing for a goal and in the dying moments of the 1st half get themselves the lead the ball is played out to Box on the left side gets down the line before whipping a cross into the box, Brewis-Shephard has made the run from midfield and is unmarked on the six yard line the cross falling to her she heads it down towards the far post the ball rolling over the line 1-0.

Colchester Town Ladies captain, Alex Brewis-Shephard opens the scoring

Half-time Colchester Town Ladies 1-0 Silver End United Ladies

Colchester have had the bulk of the attack 1st half, but for all of their possession Silver End have defended will, pressing the ball and putting in the blocks, haven’t had much in the way of attacks themselves holding out before conceding so late in the 1st half.

Silver End get the 2nd half underway, Colchester get hold of it right from the start putting it out to Box on the left looks to play in Brewis-Shephard through the middle, Osborne closes in to tackle the ball sent out of play for a throw left.

GOAL! Colchester keep Silver End pegged back from the throw get players into the left corner, the ball is laid back to the edge of the area before being sent in to Box inside the six yard box left of goal, going to ground gets she shot away the ball going across the goal face past the keeper and in 2-0. An early goal 2nd half just what Colchester wanted.

Silver End respond with a substitution, Helen Alder coming on for Henderson. Colchester are on the attack again Chelsea Forde playing the ball out to Fitzpatrick on the right side arriving with pace meets the ball on the corner of the area fires the shot it smashes into the boarding behind the Silver End goal. Colchester a pressing hard at the start of the 2nd half Box moving out to the right takes the ball into the area squares it along the face of the area with Brewis-Shephard, before she can get the shot away, Head gets back on her blocking the ball spinning into the gloves of Streetley. Colchester make another change sending on Stacey Roper for Forde who has picked up a knock.

Osborne matches up the bruises on team mate Head’s face as her defensive clearance smashes her in the face again, another stinging blow needs a few seconds to recover holding her nose this time, but checking she’s okay Head is happy to continue. Ducks out of the way of a third blow to the face as the ball is put out for a throw. Colchester work the ball across the box from the throw deep on the left comes through to Wakefield sends in a low shot towards goal, Streetley is down quickly to hold onto the ball.

Silver End United Ladies captain, Rebecca Hollocks

Silver End with a free kick inside the Colchester half, Hollocks smashes a fierce drive into the wall the ball coming back to her is played out to the left, Bowmen gets onto it takes the ball on into the area wins her side a corner kick, Wakefield back defending the set-piece gets it clear drops outside the area Head looks to hit it on the half volley slices the shot wide. Silver End make a change taking off Lindsey Cowell and bringing Amy Evans on.

GOAL! Brewis-Shephard picks up the ball in the middle makes a crossfield run right to left, full back Jones is already on the move bombing forwards the ball is played into her path taking it on down the flank crosses the ball in towards the near post with Box coming to meet it, hits the ball hard rising towards goal, a great save from Streetley throwing herself up getting her gloves to the ball doesn’t get it away unfortunately as it falls to Wakefield at the far post to head the ball over the line 3-0. 60 minutes played Colchester with a strong start to the 2nd half have a 3 goal lead.

Paige Wakefield heads home to make it 3-0 to Colchester

Laura Guyon is introduced to the action for Colchester. The Silver End defence is busy Colchester keep coming forwards, Fitzpatrick plays the ball into the area from the right side, Osborne defends well up against Box the ball pops free Brewis-Shephard is interested, Head goes up against her the close range effort blocked.

GOAL! A 4th goal for Colchester, Jones the scorer the ball with her on the left side high up the pitch sends in a high looping cross into the area, a difficult one for the keeper to deal with dropping down right under her crossbar dips late can’t get anything on it as it hits the ground and bounces over the goal line at the far stick.4-0.

Changes for both sides, Paula Drane and Nikita Walker come on for Silver End. Bamber comes back on for Colchester in place of Box. Silver End have had little of the attack 2nd half Hollocks wants to get the ball forwards, Walker looks to provide a run get into the box from the right side, the ball is sent up into the box, bounces through to Runnacles before Walker can get to it.

Amy Evans looks to get the ball forwards for Silver End United Ladies

Wakefield picks up an injury after a challenge in the middle limps off for Colchester, Box sent back on. Bamber has the ball on the left, Box inside her is played in taking the ball into the area Evans tracking back does well to defend ease her off the ball. Hollocks knicks the ball off the Colchester defence on the left side looks to carry the ball into the area, Smith now in defence gets across to block her strike deflects the ball behind for a corner. The corner comes in central Runnacles calls for it and claims unchallenged.

Michelle Taylor comes on for Silver End, Bailess going off. The Silver End defence has battled hard 2nd half putting in alot of effort to try and stop the Colchester advance the game beyond them as it moves into the final minutes the back 4, Head, Osborne, Gardener and Raby come off, Bowman, Henderson, Bailess and Cowell come back on look to have a go late on Hollocks playing it long out to Bowman on the right her 1st time cross whipped into the box is cleared by Blacklock. Bowman has an opportunity to strike from distance the ball doesn’t trouble Runnacles.

The final whistle blows and Colchester Town Ladies win the ERWFL League Cup beating Silver End United Ladies 4-0. A strong 2nd half performance seeing them add 3 more goals to their half-time lead, gave the Division One East side little opportunity up the other end. A spirited performance from Silver End United just couldn’t match Colchester 2nd half.

Colchester Town Ladies, 2015/16 ERWFL League Cup Winners

Congratulations to Colchester Town Ladies on winning the 2015/16 ERWFL League Cup and once again my thanks to the both sides for helping me out with the team details today. An busy but enjoyable day attending the ERWFL Cup Finals day.

Match Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Writtle Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog feature 2 Cup Final reports from this Sunday from the ERWFL Finals Day, the 1st of which was the ERWFL Division One Cup new to this season the sides from the two Division One’s East & West drawn into 2 groups before advancing to the quarter final knock out phase with Colney Heath Ladies & Writtle Ladies reaching the final kicking off at 11am at the County Ground home of the Hertfordshire FA. Read the whole match report below.

Cup Final Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Writtle Ladies

On the road early Sunday morning heading for the County Ground in Letchworth home of the Hertfordshire FA to watch 2 Cup Finals today both from the Easter Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL). The first an 11am kick-off for a new competition the ERWFL Division One Cup the two sides contesting it, Colney Heath Ladies and Writtle Ladies.

The ERWFL Division One is the 4th tier of the women’s winter football pyramid currently split into 2 leagues Division One East & West with 7 sides originally contesting each, the Division One Cup replaces the old League Plate format, runs along similar lines however with the sides contesting the 2 divisions split into two groups A & B to play a mini league, providing each side with more competitive matches. The top 4 from each group progressing into a knock-out stage, the quarter finals.

Contrasting season’s for both the finalists, Colney Heath Ladies were the beaten finalists in last season’s ERWFL League Plate competition. A young side who I have often heard talked about as one to watch in the future this season has seen the sides progress hampered by injuries and like a good number of sides across the region the poor weather that saw them hardly play a game got no momentum going were rooted to the bottom of ERWFL Division One West for virtually the whole campaign. Towards the latter half of the season getting players back and entering the Division One Cup drawn in Group B this saw them find some form winning 3 of their 5 games to finish 3rd in the table to reach the quarter finals 2 successive league wins at the end of the season saw them climb off the foot of the table.

Writtle Ladies are very much a side on the rise newly promoted to the ERWFL this season having had 100% league win record in Essex they continued that form in the league holding onto that 100% right up until the penultimate league games against local rivals Silver End United Ladies, who we will talk about more in the next match report, edged the win in a 7 goal thriller 4-3. By then however Writtle Ladies were already crowned champions of the ERWFL Division One East and will be competing in the Premier Division next season. Were also runners-up in this seasons Essex Women’s County Cup Final. Drawn in A in the Division One Cup topped the group going through unbeaten with 4 wins and a draw.

Road to the Final

Onto the knock-out stages the quarter-finals predetermined by the final placing in Groups A & B with 1st v 4th and 2nd v 3rd. That saw Colney Heath Ladies travelling from Hertfordshire to play Essex side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies, who had gone through the group stages unbeaten themselves. Colney Heath Ladies ran out 3-1 winners to reach the semi-finals to play Hoddesdon Owls Ladies a single goal scored by Christina Freestone was enough to see them reach the ERWFL Division One Cup Final.

Writtle Ladies were to face familiar opponents in the quarter-finals were at home to Silver End United Ladies knocked them out of the competition with a 3-1 victory. Reaching the semi-finals they were on the road taking on Offley & Stopsley Ladies had a 3-2 advantage at half-time before going on again to score 2nd half to win the game 4-2 and set-up the potential of a league and cup double.

The venue for today’s ERWFL Finals, Hertfordshire FA’s County Ground, been here a few time this season for various games, easy to access, a good sized pitch with a large seated stand running along one side behind the dugouts, small covered terraced stands behind the goals with another covered stand on the opposite side. The weather for the finals day couldn’t be better, bright, sunny and warm.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Natalie Hilton, Molly Slade, Rachel Sheridan, Victoria Hill, Eustacia Randles, Sammy May, Kirsty Feasey, Sophie Joseph (C), Kelly Hancock, Adrienne Milton & Holly Sheridan.
subs – Lucy Hancock, Annie Hickey & Jael Muzzi.

Writtle Ladies starting XI – Beth Griffiths, Caroline Brown, Kayleigh Franklin, Hannah Mold, Faith Candice, Courtney Clarke, Georgina Tricker, Leanne Stubbings, Amy Simmons, Abigail Fry (C) & Sophie Vale.
subs – Amelia Murphy, Charlotte Walker, Kimberly Ripton, Rachel Weller & Nicola Medici.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Writtle wearing green and white horizontal striped shirts with green shorts and socks to kick off the 1st half with Colney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and socks. Writtle press Colney Heath right from the start getting the ball out on the left, look to get the ball into the area Colney Head central defender intercepts the ball and launches it far from her area. Writtle regain possession and try their luck on the opposite flank, captain Abigail Fry running into space receiving the ball squares her cross in towards the near post area, Colney Heath goalkeeper Natalie Hilton has come across and is there to scoop the ball up into her gloves.

Colney Heath look to teat Writtle out through the centre, play the ball long looking for striker, Adrienne Milton first, looks to get into the box onto the ball, Faith Candice gets her foot on the ball first. Peeling away to the right Milton’s strike partner, Holly Sheridan does find herself played in on the ball taking it into the box on the right side, Writtle goalkeeper Beth Griffiths comes charging out to close her down, Sheridan smashes her shot straight at the keeper, spins away from danger.

GOAL! An early lead for Writtle, the ball is rolled into Sophie Vale on the right holding the ball up initially, spins off her marker and turning in behind puts in an early cross into the Colney Heath area, along the six yard line, Leanne Stubbings is there having made a midfield run, unmarked the ball comes into her she connects to turn it 90 degrees on target, is past Hilton before she can react, a late dive to her left in vain the ball already over the line 0-1.

Leanne Stubbings opens the scoring in the ERWFL Division One Cup Final

From a throw on the left side on half way the ball is sent across field picking out Amy Simmons on the left for Writtle, carrying the ball on towards the area unleashes a shot from 25 yards out left of the D looking to across the diving keeper, Hilton sees the ball run wide at the far post. Simmons is played through again left side by Courtney Clarke has Colney Heath defender, Rachel Sheridan on her shoulder as they run into the are, Simmons attempts to lob the keeper, Sheridan does enough to deflect the ball wide for a corner kick. The corner is cleared out to the left, winning a 2nd corner Writtle go short this time Caroline Brown receiving the ball comes to the top corner of the area and aims for the top corner her shot landing on the roof of the net.

Writtle have started well, Colney Heath haven’t gotten going yet. Plenty of energy on show from both sides especially Colney Heath who are looking for Holy Sheridan or Milton whenever they win the ball, Sheridan finds room on the right sends a driving ball into the Writtle area no one is making a run to get onto the end of it. Colney Heath captain, Sophie Joseph gets onto the ball winning a 50/50 on halfway left side drives forwards with the ball laying the pass into Holly Sheridan coming left side back to goal on the edge of the box, turns playing the ball on with Milton the pass a little heavy Milton does well to win a corner. Comes in long from the right far post players there but no one can get a touch.

Clarke wins Writtle a corner as the Essex side wins a throw deep on the right Kayleigh Franklin putting the ball into her feet inside the box, Eustacia Randles closing her down to concede the corner, played into the box from the right, Simmons back to goal can’t control it Stubbings far side goes to retrieve and shoot but Colney Heath have pushed out quickly the offside flag is raised. Stubbings linked up with Vale through the middle inside the Colney Heath half, the midfielder playing the ball forwards into Vale outside the box, looks to turn inside and hit the shot, is blocked by Kirsty Feasey as she tracks back to help defend the rebound rolling back to Stubbings her strike back in towards goal is straight into the gloves of Hilton.

Writtle Ladies, Courtney Clarke

Is a warm day the referee lets the players take on fluids as Vale receives treatment in the middle after the affects of a robust challenge in the middle of the park. As play resumes Colney Heath press the ball high Holly Sheridan winning it and putting the pass through the middle for Milton, up against Candice the two chase the ball into the box, Griffiths is coming forwards, Milton stretches trying to get it past her sends her attempt high and wide.

The captains tussle for the ball, Writtle’s Abigail Fry with Colney Heath’s, Sophie Joseph

Fry is brought down by Joseph wide right as she attempts to take the ball on around her a free kick in a dangerous position the ball is sent into the box long, Rachel Sheridan winning the header gets the ball clear. Colney Heath have gotten better over the last 10 minutes Sammy May playing the ball to Milton moving across the the right side an early cross into the area from high up the pitch aiming near post with Holly Sheridan making the run Griffiths can gather before the striker can pounce. Slade with a defensive clearance out from the back finds Sheridan who has Randles making a surging run from left back into space rolls the ball gets her team a throw high up the pitch the ball is worked into the Writtle area Kelly Hancock tries to get onto the ball can’t bring it under control to shoot Writtle’s Hannah Mold gets it out of the area.

Changes for Colney Heath with Joseph and Holly Sheridan coming off, Annie Hickey and Jael Muzzi come on. Colney Heath are putting alot of effort into pressuring the ball when Writtle hit them on the counter Georgina Tricker latching on to the ball and taking it down the left wing, cutting back inside into the area her shot is charged down by the advancing keeper, Hilton runs back to Tricker she is closed down no shot on lays it back to Vale edge of the box bouncing she can’t quite get her foot over the ball, turning it in, Randles is able to head it clear.

GOAL! Vale gets another chance to shoot at goal moments later an takes it doubling Writtle’s lead late in the 1st half. Writtle turn the play around quickly the ball through the middle sending Vale through determined to reach in lunges for the ball outside the area digging it out of the ground sends it in rising towards goal comes at Hilton quickly throws her gloves up at it but can’t get a firm grip as it squeezes through and dropping behind her over the line. 0-2.

Sophie Vale scores to make it 2-0 to Writtle Ladies

A late free kick for Colney Heath on half way, Slade to play the ball long in to the Writtle area, Hickey throws herself at the ball may have got a touch but either way bouncing on Griffiths pushes the ball wide of goal conceding the corner kick. Played in from the left, long again to the far post Milton rising cranes her neck to try and turn the ball on target sends the attempt over the bar.

Half-time Colney Heath Ladies 0-2 Writtle Ladies

A 2-0 lead at half-time Writtle Ladies started the brighter and took an early lead, Colney Heath slow to get started improved as the half wore on, both sides creating chances Writtle doubling their lead 5 minutes before the break. A usual lead to have at half-time another goal would put a hand firmly on the cup.

Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway, Holly Sheridan and Joseph are back on the pitch, Randles and Milton off, Lucy Hancock has also been introduced to the action. Straight away they are pressing Writtle on the ball get the ball into the area, Griffiths gets the ball into her gloves. Both keepers are out of their area in the opening minutes with play congested in the middle the ball popping free to send an attacker through. Both keepers come and kick well. Fry attacking down the right wins Writtle a corner kick put in Stubbings looks to help the ball on into the crowded six yard area in front of goal, Rachel Sheridan gets the ball away.

Colney Heath’s Sophie Joseph in a race for the ball with Writtle’s Courtney Clarke

Hickey going after a ball played through the centre nods it on with her head looks to chase it down into the Writtle area, Mold gets back on her the shot deflected wide out to the right is picked up by Kelly Hancock her ball sent back into the box is cleared. Colney Heath are awarded a free kick wide right 25 yards out May to play into the area a good delivery whipped in with pace an inviting height, Holly Sheridan goes up for it can’t quite get the connection to turn the ball in towards goal.

Writtle have players ready to burst on when the ball is won back, Fry makes the move on the right wants the ball, gets it taking it on turn inside closing in on the area fires the shot in low and with power, Hilton gets down to stop it, pops out of her grasp for a second Simmons closing in from the left is interested, the keeper snatches the ball back into her body. Candice is in alot of pain from a tackle in the centre the defender is unable to carry on Charlotte Walker comes on goes up top in attack with Stubbings dropping into defence.

The stand behind the dugouts is shielding the fans from the sun over on the far side but it is a potential problem for the keepers when any ball is put in from the opposite with any height, Vale does just that attacking down the right for Writtle, up high and dropping down close to her crossbar Hilton on her line does well to get hold of the ball. In the opposite goal Griffiths comes charging out of her box as Holly Sheridan as played in through the middle sliding in fully committed gets everything behind the ball to deny Sheridan the chance to shoot.

Tricker gives away a free kick wide on the left close to 30 yards out, may is standing over the ball goes for goal gets plenty of pace on the shot smashes against the woodwork coming back out into play, Writtle hurry the clearance get the ball up the other end. Colney Heath are seeing more of the ball getting it up the field with urgency have a throw on the right taken quickly by Kelly Hancock she plays Holly Sheridan into the Writtle area, Mold gets the tackle in putting the ball out for a corner kick. Taken from the right Tricker defends the ball near post then fouls the corner taker Joseph outside the box. The set-piece is launched long to the far post a crowd of Colney Heath players after it one connects the header is wide took a knick a corner on the left is given this ball is cleared out only as far as Joseph standing on the edge of the area, snatches at the ball her shot well off target.

Colney Heath Ladies, Kirsty Feasey looking to get hold of the ball

More substitutions, for Writtle Amelia Murphy comes on for Vale whilst Colney Heath bring Randles and Milton back on for Lucy Hancock and Muzzi. Tricker brings the ball out from the back and covers alot of grass knocking it past the full back ahead of her before playing the ball into the area, Rachel Sheridan comes across to win the ball putting it behind for a corner.

A break for Colney Heath, the attacking 3 looking to combine as Holly Sheridan plays Milton into the box from the right side, looks to flash a cross into Hickey chasing in far post along the six yard box, Griffiths throws herself on the ball making the save in front of Hickey. Both sides are fashioning chances as Writtle play Fry in on the right attacking with the ball drives inside running along the front of the Colney Heath area rolls the ball across to Murphy waiting for it left of the D, looks to turn the shot in towards goal, curls it over the crossbar.

Lucy Hancock is back on for Colney Heath replacing Kelly Hancock. Writtle’s Caroline Brown plays a superb ball out to the left for Simmons to chase down into the Colney Heath box, the angle is fading fast as she closes in on the six yard box Hilton coming to close her down goes to shoot across the face of the goal, sees the effort run wide at the opposite post. Hilton needs some treatment after she ribcage is rattled coming to claim a Writtle free kick put in from halfway gets her gloves to the bouncing ball before being clattered – is okay to continue.

Corner for Colney Heath played in from the right side into the box dropping to Sheridan unmarked central on the six yard line headers the ball in towards goal, Griffiths looks beaten as the ball flies to her left, somehow produces an amazing piece of agility to throw herself at the ball is past her as she plucks it away from a certain goal.

Beth Griffiths produces an amazing save to keep Writtle’s 2-0 lead intact

Muzzi and Feasey return to the pitch for Colney Heath Hickey and May the players coming off. Colney Heath are running out of time to get a goal back and get themselves back into the final. Win a corner on the left the ball put in is headed clear by Clark for a throw in the left the ball is retained by Colney Heath is played across the face of the area, running across her Feasey opens up her body to turn the ball in towards goal, Griffiths is caught static turns to see the ball bounce off the base of the goal post and roll across the six yard box before being cleared.

Another Colney Heath free kick on half way, Slade over it is encouraged to shoot, goes for goal on target but Griffiths has plenty of time to shuffle across and claim it. Kelly Hancock comes back on for Colney Heath, Milton comes off. With Colney Heath pushing players on looking for a goal the game is stretched, Writtle patient are ready to hit them on the break the ball is fed out to Simmons now on the right having switched with Fry, squares the ball in to the near post with Murphy running onto it lifts the strike over the crossbar. The ball is sent out to the right again as Writtle counter the early ball sent in long is past Hilton hits the crossbar and then the far post looks certain to drop over the goal line however Rachel Sheridan gets back on her line to hook it away.

GOAL! Closing in on stoppage time and the goal Colney Heath have been pushing so hard for 2nd half finally comes. The game is stretched late on Writtle aren’t interested in taking it into the corner want a 3rd goal themselves to seal it, Colney Heath win it back play the ball through the middle, Holly Sheridan is after in racing after the ball gets plenty of power behind the shot from the edge of the box the ball coming at Griffiths is rising flies over her and hits the back of the net 1-2.

Holly Sheridan is held aloft by Molly Slade after she scores in the Cup Final for Colney Heath Ladies

Into stoppage time so little time left Writtle get hold of the ball and keep it late on inside the Colney Heath half-time don’t let their opponents have it have the lead and are going to keep it the final whistle blows and Writtle Ladies win 2-1 to end their season with a league and cup double winning the ERWFL Division One Cup.

A good contest played at a fearsome pace, chances at both end Writtle Ladies started the better and got the lead 2-0 at half-time were patient knew Colney Heath had to come at them both sides created chances wasn’t till late on Colney Heath got a gaol back 10 minutes sooner maybe it could have been game on however Writtle defended well for the most part and won the game.

Writtle Ladies 2015/16 ERWFL Division One Cup Winners

Congratulations to Writtle Ladies on winning the ERWFL Division One Cup and making it a double success with the Division One East title too. My thanks to the management of both sides for their help with the teams today.

Cup Final Report – Harlow Ladies v Runwell Hospital Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was in Essex on Sunday to watch the Women’s League Cup Final played between Harlow Ladies, newly crowned Champions of Division One and looking to achieve a quadruple taking on Premier Division side Runwell Hospital Ladies who had reached their 1st final in the clubs history. The whole game report from the blog can be found below.

Cup Final Report – Harlow Ladies v Runwell Hospital Ladies

Herongate Athletic FC is the destination for today’s women’s football action, another Cup Final this on from Essex, the Women’s League Cup, Harlow Ladies v Runwell Hospital Ladies.

Two sides contested the Essex Women’s League Cup Final for the 1st time.

Harlow Ladies have taken the women’s football scene in Essex by storm this season their 1st season together under the Harlow banner and are aiming for a quadruple. Have won the Essex Women’s Division One title with a 100% win record. Have also won the Essex Women’s Trophy and Tiptree & District Women’s Charity Cup and will be hoping to add the League Cup too. A young side have an U18s side hot on their heels too.

Runwell Hospital FC have run a women’s football team on and off for a number of years now, the current Ladies side have been together for 2 seasons now achieved promotion from Division One to the Essex Women’s Premier Division in their 1st season together and have held their own in the top division this season amongst the title contenders early on suffered a few injury set backs mid-season which saw them fall away from the leaders have secured a comfortable 5th placed finish. Today’s League Cup Final is the 1st final any Runwell Hospital Ladies side has reached.

Road to the Final

Both sides received a Bye in the 1st Round of the competition. A tough challenge for Harlow Ladies in the 2nd Round drawn at home to face the leaders of the Essex Women’s Premier Division at that time, Chelmsford City Ladies, won the game 3-2. Were drawn at home to face fellow Division One side Chigwell Ladies in the quarter finals the fixture wasn’t played a home win awarded Harlow Ladies advanced to the semi-finals and an away day at Premier Division side Eastern Avenue who were the holders of the League Cup. Edged the game 2-1 to book their 3rd final appearance of the season.

Runwell Hospital Ladies were also up against a Chelmsford City Ladies side in the 2nd Round of the League Cup at home against their Reserves from Division One, won the game 2-1 to reach the quarter finals and another away trip taking on fellow Premier Division side Walden Ladies, a 3-1 victory saw them through to the semi-finals and a home tie against another Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers, a 2-1 win saw the club reach their 1st ever Cup Final.

The venue for today’s Essex Women’s League Cup Final, Herongate Athletic FC, situated in the village of Herongate a large clubhouse with bar and function hall overlooks the main pitch and playing fields beyond. A large pitch freshly mowed with a good covering of grass a few dips hidden here and there. A picturesque setting for a final on a bright and sunny day, few clouds dotted about but no chance of rain as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Harlow Ladies starting XI – Sarah Walker, Megan Sende, Christie Seakens, Imogen Palmer (C), Phoebe McMurray, Riley Bennett, Eliza Weeks, Victoria Hill, Philippa Stephens, Abbie Bensted & Nene McInerney.
subs – Catherine Kelly, Tia Dye & Chloe Ring.

Runwell Hospital Ladies starting XI – Hayley Johnson, Gemma Vine, Rebecca Pope, Sophie Olley, Ashleigh Harvey, Lisa Harris (C), Rachael Selfe, Sammie Delves, Lauren Wooley, Emma Slater & Vicky Martin
subs – Danni Caton, Grace Nightingale, Jessica Light & Nik Chapman.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Runwell to get the Essex Women’s League Cup Final underway wearing yellow shirts with blue vertical stripes down the front, blue shorts and socks with Harlow lined up in red shirts with white across the shoulders, red shorts and red socks with a white band at the top. Play is congested in the middle in the opening minute both sides wanting to get it out into the channels defences cutting out the ball. Harlow work the ball from right to left across the Runwell box, Philippa Stephens attacking on the left looks to carry the ball on is stopped by Runwell’s Ashleigh Harvey sets up a counter attack the ball carries up the right side a throw in won deep in Harlow territory.

GOAL! Runwell take an early led in the final the goal coming from the throw is played into Sammie Delves and rolled across the face of the Harlow box with Rachael Selfe left unmarked in front of the D, turns the ball goalwards as it comes into her, goes past Harlow keeper Sarah Walker, rolls inside the post put Runwell in front 0-1.

Harlow go straight on the offensive from the restart get the ball out to the left side Stephens playing the ball into Abbie Bensted making a run ahead of her breaking into the area wide of goal pulls the trigger puts her shot straight at Runwell keeper, Hayley Johnson covering the angle. In the next move Stephens is the player getting onto the end of a long diagonal past sprayed out to her from the right carries the ball into the Runwell area looks to knock the ball on is deflected behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! Harlow get themselves back on level terms from the corner kick taken from the left the ball is swept in towards the near post, Johnson makes the decision to come for it comes along way and doesn’t get anything on it, flies on into the six yard box, Nene McInerney is free in the middle, so to is Eliza Weeks in front of her and she turns the ball into the back of the net from close range to make it 1-1 and barely 5 minutes of the game has been played.

Harlow Ladies, Eliza Weeks

Another corner won by Harlow on the right this time the ball is sent in with pace towards Christie McMurray coming from the edge of the area to meet it near side gets a glancing header on the ball looking to knock it on, Runwell’s Selfe is right behind her the ball comes at her quickly her header sends the ball looping up towards her own goal, sees it cleared by the defender covering the far post. Bensted picks up the ball for Harlow has Victoria Hill sprinting free into space on the right closing on the byline squares the cross into the box is intercepted and cleared by Vicky Martin at the near post. Emma Slater gets hold of the ball in the middle sending it long for Selfe up the left flank tries to turn inside is stopped by Weeks.

Emma Slater on the ball for Runwell Hospital Ladies

Runwell threaten to break on the counter a fantastic ball from Sophie Olley up towards the right side of the Harlow area has Delves after the ball, racing out of her six yard box Walker arrives just in the knick of time just inside her area to slide in put the ball out for a throw as Delves goes over her. Runwell keep possession around Harlow’s area looking to thread the ball into the box, Harlow captain Imogen Palmer puts the ball behind for the corner kick.

Harlow win the ball from the corner and try to break McInerney has it on the left side, attempts to put Bensted away through the middle the ball is cut out but not cleared finds its way to Hill on the right side her cross is long towards the far post Stephens has made up the ground, brings the ball down well great control shown to turn and hit on the volley, the attempt at goal is sent over the bar.

Harlow come again the ball held up on the right side top of the area by McInerney, rolls it back to Hill who one again looks for Stephens at the far post, gets he head to the ball this time knocking it down across goal, Johnson gets down sharply for a moment it looks as though the ball has squirmed under the keeper will roll over the line, but Johnson reacts quickly gets to it stopping it before it rolls all the way.

Runwell Hospital Ladies, Gemma Vine

Harlow are creating chances but risk getting caught on the counter, Gemma Vine brings the ball out from left back up the line for Selfe, gets the throw deep on the left, links up with Vine again who launches the ball into the Harlow area, Delves the target, too much on the ball allows Walker to gather. Harlow are pushing forwards when Runwell play the ball back to Johnson the goalkeepers kick is good going long over halfway, Selfe steals in behind the defence races for the area, Christie Seakens recovers well the centre back getting back to tackle Selfe on the edge of the area. Changes for Harlow, Riley Bennett coming off with Catherine Kelly coming on. Tia Dye is on to in place of McInerney.

Rachael Selfe looking to get the ball in behind the Harlow defence

The substitute has an early opportunity to make an impact is over a free kick won on the right side 22 yards from goal, goes for the shot takes it past the 2 player wall on the near side little to aim at the shot is wide. Harlow with the ball come again the ball played by McMurray out to Hill on the right cuts the cross back towards Bensted inside the D, brings the ball down on her chest and hits the shot on the volley sending it out towards the far post, rolls a foot wide of target.

Harlow Ladies, Phoebe McMurray bringing the ball under control

Double change for Runwell, Rebecca Pope and Martin coming off for Grace Nightingale and Nik Chapman. Nightingale brings down Dye as she tries to make a run through into the area drifting right, is yellow carded the free kick to the right of goal is taken by Bensted looks to go for goal puts the effort well over the top of the crossbar.

GOAL! 10 minutes before half time Harlow take the lead, pushing down the left side Stephens on the ball looks to force her way into the area plenty of yellow shirts ahead of her get their foot on the ball trying to clear hits a body and stays a threat 3 occasions cannot get the ball away Stephens trying to get to it hustling the defence the ball inside the six yard area is deflected into the path of Dye front of goal opens up her body and turns the ball in across goal 2-1.

GOAL! The lead doesn’t last long, am still trying to finish my notes from Harlow’s goal as Runwell attack right from the restart the ball played out to the left carried up the pitch an advantage is played the ball fired inside early across the front of the Harlow area, Runwell have plenty of players breaking from midfield, one of those is Chapman meets the ball 20 yards out right of the D a brilliant strike the shot arrows into the top corner 2-2.

Nik Chapman, closest to the ball with a brilliant strike to make it 2-2 for Runwell Hospital Ladies

Nightingale defends well up against Dye as they pair go for the ball as it enters the Runwell area left side. Slater is hurt outside her area as she comes back to help defend clear the ball looks to have hurt her knee, a lengthy spell of treatment she is up walking albeit gingerly is taken off with Pope returning to the field. Change for Harlow Seakens off for Bennett the move seeing Kelly drop into defence. The Runwell defence is turned Dye goes after the ball stealing it from Harvey as she struggles to control carries the ball on into the ball taking it right side lifts her shot over.

Runwell Hospital Ladies, Rebecca Pope battles with Harlow’s
Phoebe McMurray for control of the ball

Harvey then cuts a ball from Bennett in the middle intended for Stephens on the left conceding the corner. Taken short on the left the ball is fired in low and with pace towards the near post, an unorthodox but effective save by Johnson superb reflexes to stop it with her feet and get plenty of distance on the clearance, gathered out on the left by Harlow a high ball is sent back into the area dropping late Johnson back on her line has it covered the ball drops just over the bar.

Half-time Harlow Ladies 2-2 Runwell Hospital Ladies

A scrappy 1st half both sides competitive not letting the other settle on the ball, both have had the lead and lost it almost straight away. Harlow have created more chances but the score tells you it’s not about how many you have it’s how many you take. Runwell have been on the back foot defending well enough but not getting hold of the ball for any sustained period, taken both their chances well.

Harlow kick off the 2nd half press the ball high on the left side early on Wooley gets winded getting in the way of a cross fired into the area. Possession is retained on the left side Hill tries to bring the ball inside Runwell captain Lisa Harris comes to tackle win the ball back. Played on into Pope forwards for Chapman who sends the pass out to Delves on the right has Olley ahead of her taking the ball down the line wins a corner.

GOAL! A Runwell corner on the right side but it’s Harlow who score up the other end, the ball is sent into the area by Runwell is intercepted by Bennett who brings it out of her area coming left plays it wide for Bensted as they counter attack rapidly, bringing the ball up to half way sends in on for Dye ahead of her giving chase gets hold of it 20 yards out taking it on into the Runwell area has a defender trying to get back on her with the keeper coming trying to stay big Dye puts the shot through her legs and scores 3-2 to give Harlow the lead again 5 minutes into the start of the 2nd half.

Two goals in the Essex Women’s League Cup Final for Tia Dye

Bensted wins the ball in midfield 25 yards out drives a shot in towards goal, Johnson is well positioned in her goal gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Runwell get the ball up the pitch quickly Nightingale up to Selfe on the left the ball is fired into the Harlow area Delves has peeled away to the right is free the ball dropping to her hits the volley on the run sends the strike over the crossbar from 10 yards out. Tempo has clearly been lifted at the start of the 2nd half Harlow come back up the other end Hill seeing a strike from the edge of the box blocked at close range.

Double change for Runwell, Harris and Harvey come off, Danni Caton and Martin come on. Harlow are pushing players forwards whenever they have the ball getting bodies in and around the area attacking up the right the ball is squared across the face of the area rolling into Hill inside the D turns the ball in towards goal Johnson throws herself across her goal to the left the ball just wide of the post. Stephens returns to the action for Harlow, Bennett off.

Runwell Hospital Ladies
Sophie Olley

Despite her error early on Johnson has been confident coming for the ball from the corner and even though she has been clattered into a couple of times has more often than not won the ball punching clear or making the claim, this time from a corner put in from the right she comes and collects sets up a quick attack the ball played into midfield helped on to find Delves drifting away to the right as she enters the area, her shot is blocked deflected behind for a corner kick. A fantastic save from Walker in the Harlow goal from the set piece the ball fired in from the right is headed on by Harlow as they attempt to clear the area runs on towards the edge of the box, Olley is making a run from a deeper position latches onto the ball hitting it hard and low back into towards goal, Walker is down sharply to get her body behind the ball stops the shot the ball is cleared.

Weeks is given a rest for Harlow with Seakens returning to the field. Runwell getting a little bit of joy played the all forwards through the centre, Olley going after a long all is held up by the Harlow defence allowing Walker to come to the edge of her area claim the ball. Megan Sende rings the ball up the field on the left for Harlow, winning a throw high up the pitch links up with Dye who knocks the all on into the area centre rolls to Bensted scuffs her effort allowing Runwell chance to get it away.

GOAL! Harlow retain possession of the ball from the clearance played out to the right side of the pitch the ball is sent back into the Runwell box lofted high into the air falls to Bensted who has made a move towards the left side to attack the far post area, good connection with the ball to lift the shot high into the top corner and see Harlow gain a 2 goal advantage 4-2.

McInerney comes back on for Harlow, Dye off. Bensted plays the pass into Hill inside the Runwell area right side of the six yard box has a defender on her shoulder, Johnson comes to close down throws herself at Hill’s feet making the save the all blocked turned behind for a corner, Johnson is hurt in the challenge needs treatment. Okay to continue comes for the ball from the resulting corner gets enough on it to push it back out wide to the taker Bensted, she looks to lift the ball long to the far post area with Stephens coming in, the ball bounces through Stephens not quite able to get there. Change for Runwell Jessica Light coming on going up top for Selfe.

Harlow Ladies, Victoria Hill

Stephens gets hold of the ball drives up the left for Harlow, closing down to the byline cuts the ball back in towards the front of the six yard box comes to McInerney, hits the shot 1st time, Johnson dives full stretch to her right pushes the ball from goal, still in play Stephens squeezes the ball back in towards McInerney tries to open up her body turn the ball the opposite side with Johnson still grounded, doesn’t get any pace on the ball as the keeper scrambling up lunges for the ball laying claim to it.

Runwell need a goal and are pushing a few extra bodies forwards Caton winning the ball at the back sends it into the middle, Pope puts it out to the right, Delves plays it back into the middle, Harris latches onto it 25 yards out, going for goal puts the strike over the crossbar.

GOAL! Have a goal shortly after working the ball up the left, Vine links with Wooley a throw is won inside the Harlow half taken quickly the ball is sent long into the area, again Delves has peeled off the defence and is in space, unmarked has time to get her foot over the ball and lash it home 4-3. 10 minutes left to play still very much game on.

Great piece of skill shown by Stephens once again to control the all as it is flighted up to her inside the area left side from a free kick in front of the centre circle, bringing the ball down, and turning inside past her marker in one move, screws her shot away from goal.

GOAL! 40 minutes of the 2nd half played and Harlow extend the lead, Runwell are looking for an opening up the other end the ball is won back by Harlow, fed through the middle with urgency comes all the way up to McInerney 20 yards out getting hold of the ball, Stephens is up with her makes the run to get into the area right side this time, McInerney rolls the ball into her run, Stephens powers her shot high past the keeper and into the back of the net 5-3.

More chances for Harlow later on Dye and Chloe Ring onto the pitch, Hill and Bensted off. Harlow keep attacking late on the game moving into injury time McInerney stealing into the box longing to get onto the end of a long high ball gets to it just before the advancing Johnson, but lifts her attempted lob high and wide. Dye fires a ball from wide in towards goal Johnson pushes it wide. Runwell can’t get hold of the ball in the closing minutes Harlow defend a free kick put up to the edge of their area, Dye has a shot 25 yards out central looking to curl it into the top corner places it too close to Johnson. The final whistle blows and Harlow Ladies celebrate.

Harlow Town Ladies celebrate at the final whistle

Harlow Ladies win the Essex Women’s League Cup beating Runwell Hospital Ladies 5-3 and complete an incredible quadruple in just their 1st season. Created far more goal scoring opportunities in the game had the lead 2nd half were never assured of victory right till the end Runwell Hospital Ladies always looking a threat when they did get forwards just didn’t do it enough. A good final to watch my 5th League Cup across the Eastern Counties have all been good adverts for women’s football, one more to look forwards too.

Harlow Ladies, Essex Women’s League Cup Winners

Congratulations to Harlow Ladies on winning the Essex Women’s League Cup and on doing the quadruple. For a few in the Harlow Ladies side this is their final game for the club for now as they move onto university a great way to end a season. Thanks to both sides for their help with the teams today and the staff from both the Essex FA and Herongate Athletic FC for their help too.

Cup Final – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

3 nights 3 Cup Finals on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, Tuesday saw the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final being played at Histon FC with Cambridge City Ladies newly crowned Champions of the Women’s Premiership with the opportunity to do the double taking on Cambridge United WFC Reserves defeated finalists last season. A cracker of a match a 7 goal thriller.

Cup Final Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

The busy start to the week continues with a 3rd Cup Final in 3 days a return trip to Histon FC to watch the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s S-Tech Insurance League Cup, and it’s a local derby too with Cambridge City Ladies playing Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

Cambridge City Ladies will be hoping to make it a league and cup double tonight, having clinched the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title in their debut season playing women’s football having progressed as a side through the Cambridgeshire youth leagues together. Cambridge United WFC Reserves have their sights set on the League Cup too, beaten finalists last season have retained the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup already and want to add this trophy too having wrapping up the league season with a 3rd place finish.

Road to the Final

Cambridge City Ladies were at home in the 1st Round of the League Cup playing fellow Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side Cambridge University Women, Grace Stanley scored 4 goals as they racked up an 8-0 victory. A trip to another Premiership side followed in the 2nd Round at Netherton United Ladies a match I covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, Stanley was on target again along with Carla Penny as Cambridge City won 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals a some what delayed tie away to Bar Hill Ladies another Premiership side, Stanley and Penny the scorers once again winning 3-0. Reached the Final without kicking a ball in the semi-final after Huntingdon Town Ladies the current holders of the League Cup called time on a troubled season in the Premiership.

A Bye for Cambridge United WFC Reserves in the 1st Round of the League Cup. At home in the 2nd Round playing Deeping Diamonds Ladies newly promoted to the Premiership although they would later fold. Catherine Hanley, Hayley Turner and Monique Christian scoring in a 3-0 win. Christian was also on the scoresheet along with Gemma Clark and Sarah Mosley in the quarter-finals at home playing Championship North side Wisbech Town Ladies winning 3-2 setting up a semi-final again on home soil against fellow Premiership side Fulbourn Bluebirds, Emily Ingle amongst the goals with a hat-trick a 6-1 win putting them through to their 2nd successive League Cup Final.

The venue for the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final once again Histon FC, was put back to accommodate other finals and with heavy rain falling for much of the day was a concern the game could be in jeopardy again however the Histon FC pitch looked in fairly good shape had absorbed the water the rain stopped by the time the two sides stepped out on the grass to warm up, seen alot of action of late a little worn. An overcast and gloomy sky above thankfully the rain would stay away for the match.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Emily Bevens, Lauren Ambrose, Olivia Fraser, Lauren Tomlinson, Izzy Broadbent, Anna Wilson, Emma Littlewood, Grace Stanley, Bronte Rapley (C), Carla Penny & Philippa Witherspoon.

subs – Ellie Geoghan, Saskia Capetti, Miriam Amrani, Jade Drain & India Duffy

Cambridge United WFC Reserves starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Sarah Carroll, Robin Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Emma Roberts, Emily Reed, Liz Pamplin, Emily Ingle, Gemma Clark, Laura Mills & Hayley Turner.

subs – Catherine Hanley, Monique Christian, Kelly Docrwa & Clara Greed.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

A note takers nightmare with two Cambridge’s out there so to save typing it over and over it’s City v United from here on in. It’s City to kick off the 1st half wearing white shirts and socks with black shorts with United lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and amber socks. City are on the offensive right from the off the ball sent long for Philippa Witherspoon leading the line up front to attack.

Laura Mills is up top along side Hayley Turner for United the ball is sent up towards her, City defender Anna Wilson heads clear. The ball is played out to the right with City’s Emma Littlewood getting onto the ball and driving down the line squares the cross into the United area with Witherspoon coming towards the near post, United captain Becca Fay gets to it first.

A fast paced start to the final the ball is being moved quickly by both sides coming to Emily Ingle attacking on the right side for United her attempted through ball is cleared behind to give away the first corner of the match. On the right the ball is fed into the area near side with midfielder Liz Pamplin coming to meet it, connects on the half volley 12 yards out turning the ball in towards goal but over the crossbar.

Mills steals in behind the City defence for a clear run at goal carrying the ball forwards entering the box unleashes a shot the ball fired on runs low, coming quickly at goalkeeper Emily Bevens is straight at her saves well with her feet, deflecting the ball away from her goal. United come again the ball is retrieved out on the right Ingle powers her way forwards turning inside as she reaches the City area rolls the ball into the area, making the run from midfield, Emily Reed doesn’t need to make any adjustment to her run meeting the ball goes for the strike again the attempt flies over the crossbar.

GOAL! 10 minutes played and City get themselves the opening goal the ball played though the middle coming to Grace Stanley in an advance position on the right 20 yards out, is getting closed down but manages to get a shot away the ball gathering pace as it is sent in towards the near post, goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru is a fraction late to react diving to her right the ball is past her and over the line 1-0

GOAL! United don’t take long to find a response right from the restart they try to get Mills in behind through the middle again, this time the ball is a little too heavy allows Bevens to gather. 2 minutes after conceding United draw level the ball picked up by Ingle on the right from the goal kick pushing forwards the ball is rolled into the area with Mills the player making the run to get onto the end of it this time, running onto the ball blasts the ball home 1-1.

Laura Mills scores for Cambridge United to make it 1-1

Bringing the ball out from left back United’s Emma Roberts plays it forwards to Gemma Clark she lifts the ball into the centre of the City half with Mills jumping to head the ball forwards, Turner making a run in front of her coming in from the left side of the area to try and get on the ball, City defenders Wilson and Izzy Broadbent shield the ball allowing Bevens to come between them and claim it.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Emma Roberts

GOAL! It’s raining goals at the start of the match 5 minutes ago United were a goal down now they get themselves in front. Have the ball on the right side players that side in number the ball from Ingle is sent into the box Turner over on that side 10 yards out turns with the ball and pulls the trigger smashing the ball into the back of the net 1-2.

United have the City defence under a little pressure conceding a corner on the right the ball put in drops into the six yard box right Reed almost steals in on it however Bevens throws herself forwards and drops onto the ball. Pressure is relieved at the back by City captain Bronte Rapley in central midfield a seemingly innocuous long range punt from 30 yards out rolling wide is mis-controlled b Mhunduru giving away a corner. The set-piece causes panic in the United area as it pops out of Mhunduru’s gloves and players from both sides scramble to get a toe on the ball, eventually ends up put wide for the goal kick.

Getting hold of the ball on halfway Stanley goes on a mazy run carrying the ball forwards before letting fly with the shot from 20 yards out the ball bouncing through towards the United goal, Mhunduru gets down to stop it. United counter attack the ball into Pamplin played wide to Ingle who plays the ball along the face of the City area with Clark meeting it left side of the D, turns the ball 90 degrees towards goal, Bevens scrambling across her goal sees it roll a half yard wide of the post.

Rapley has Witherspoon available on the right having found a little space to run into the ball is played out to her, Fay goes across to make the challenge gets the ball away for the throw. Pamplin is fouled on halfway a chance for United to launch the ball up towards the City penalty area, Fay on the dead ball plays it forwards City get to the ball but fail to clear it drops to Ingle who shoots from outside the box the ball flying straight into Bevens gloves. Substitute for City as they bring Carla Penny off on the left side bring on India Duffy.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Liz Pamplin fouled by Cambridge City’s Philippa Witherspoon

GOAL! City’s Stanley picks up the ball inside the centre circle plays it forwards early with Witherspoon making a move on the left side to get in behind chasing the ball into the area, Mhunduru comes racing out of her goal and sliding in tries to get something on the ball Witherspoon tries to stay on her feet as her run is impeded get on the ball, the referee blows his whistle and points to the penalty spot. Rapley to step up to take it, fires it in high to the keepers left she doesn’t move the ball put into the top corner and in 2-2 with 35 minutes played.

Cambridge City captain Bronte Rapley makes it 2-2 from the penalty spot

United make a change bringing off Clark and sending on Monique Christian. The attacker wins a free kick almost immediately 25 yards out to the left side in front of the area, Ingle over it sends it through into the six yard box with runners ready to attack it one bounce in the six yard box and Bevens gathers the low ball into her body.

Wilson defends well against Turner as United build an attack, backing up as they play the ball long through the middle giving herself the room to get her head on the ball outaide the area. City have a free kick just inside the United half on the left the ball is sent long into the box running long towards the far stick, Stanley briefly has a sight on goal Fay gets back on her quickly to put in the block turning the shot away for a corner kick. Comes into the area central bouncing Olivia Fraser lifts up a boot to turn it towards goal plays it straight at Mhunduru who holds onto the shot. A late injury to Rapley in the 1st haf sees her come off to be replaced by Jade Drain.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-2 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

A cracking contest a lively 1st 45 minutes to the Cambridgeshire Women’s S-Tech Insurance League Cup Final. Both sides creating scoring opportunities United on top early on City getting back into the game has been fairly even offensive minded players on both side wanting to get on with the game. Beautifully poised at2-2 it could go either way.

A change for United at the start of the 2nd half, Sarah Carroll off with Kelly Docrwa on the substitution seeing Ingle move into the back line on the right. United kick off the 2nd half.

GOAL! United attack right from the whistle the ball played out to the left side they win a throw in a deep position, the ball is put into the feet of Christian on that side top of the area stands the cross up into the box heading in towards goal, coming at Bevens quickly the keeper going down spills it Mills is right on her coming in capitalises to turn the ball over the line 2-3.

City have a free kick wide on the right side 20 yards out the ball fired into the area pops out of the advancing Mhunduru’s gloves, running out towards the edge of her area the keeper races after it collecting City can pounce. Another awkward ball for the United keeper to deal with back on her goal line as Stanley lets fly from 25 yards out the ball is going to drop shot with no one closing in Mhunduru does well to make sure she kills the ball with her legs before getting her gloves around the ball.

Reed plays the ball on through the middle for Mills making the run left side closing in on the City area fires in the shot plenty of venom behind it flies past Bevens before she can react turns sees it strike the base of the far post then bounce across her six yard box before being cleared. Mills on the right attacking with the ball at her feet again squares the ball into the area Lauren Tomlinson gets to the ball before Turner can latch onto it putting it behind for a corner on the right side. Clara Greed is on for United with Roberts coming off.

Emily Ingle on the ball for Cambridge United WFC Reserves

United are pressing City back early on trying to extend their lead, keep them on the back foot, looking for Stanley up top more often than not when they do break she is fouled just outside the box in a dangerous position left of goal. Over the free kick curls the shot in past the wall towards goal Mhunduru is well position behind and claims the shot.

GOAL! Another penalty for City as Stanley is brought down coming inside from the left with the ball her run taking her just inside the top corner of the area, the foul inside the box the referee pointing to the spot for the 2nd time. No Rapley on the pitch to take this one so up steps Stanley, discussion in the crowd as to whether they’ve seen her take one before, cool as you like she strokes the ball along the ground past the immobile keepers left to level it all back up midway through the 2nd half 3-3.

Good piece of defending from Ambrose as Pamplin plays a good long range ball up to Christian on the left the right back getting the tackle in. A local derby there are a few robust challenges starting to creep into the game, both sides putting alot into it. Turner getting hold of the ball 30 yards out goes on a surging drive through the middle looking to power her way through the City defence into the box is stopped inside the D the ball taken from her boot runs back to Docrwa who has raced forwards to join her meets it 1st time turning the ball back into the area runs wide of goal. Changes for both sides Rapley comes back on for City with Clark returning to the action for United.

A long throw on the left side puts Stanley through on goal inside the United box goes to put the shot across the keeper Mhunduru gets down sharply to make the save. City send on Ellie Geoghan with Duffy coming off 15 minutes left on the clock.

GOAL! Stanley picks up the ball central and goes on another mazy run can travel quickly with the ball taking on players in front of her the slightest of touches takes her clear in behind to run at the United goal, Mhunduru is coming out to meet her has Witherspoon free on her left, there’s only one thing on her mind as she enters the area sending the ball past the keeper and into the goal to complete a Cup Final hat-trick giving City the lead 4-3.

Penny returns to the field for City with Witherspoon coming off. United push forwards on the back foot late on Mills stealing into space with the ball on the right side squares the cross into the area, is a little behind Turner nudged to the face of the area she goes after it looks to swivel and hit the shot just as Mills arrives to meet it pulls the trigger the shot is block, Mills is down hurt having clipped Turner on her follow through. City get the ball up the other end win a free kick wide left. United want to make a change delay whilst Mills is assessed needs extended treatment comes off with Ingle going back on.

The free kick from City is fired in towards the far post, Reed jumps and heads the ball clear of danger. Mills is ready to return and United bring off Turner with 5 minutes left to find at a goal to level things up. Reed is fouled in the middle of the City half by Broadbent. Ingle over the ball looks to send it into the six yard box, bouncing straight at Bevens as she goes down to collect, it pops out of her gloves briefly reclaims before Mills can get on to it. Closing in on stoppage time Saskia Capetti comes on for City replacing Littlewood.

A strike at goal from distance by Christian for United 25 yards out, Bevens dives to her right the ball runs wide of goal, must have been a City touch somewhere as the corner is awarded. The ball from the right is sent long City get to it 1st the ball headed high into the air, drops for Pamplin who gets her head to the ball, doesn’t get it on target out for the goal kick. Miriam Amrani on as Rapley is hurt again with the 5 minutes of added on time almost up. United can’t get hold of the ball late on finding the energy Stanley is back on the edge of her own box late on blocks a Christian strike. The final whistle blows and City celebrate as they win to end the season their season with a league and cup double beating United 4-3 to win the League Cup.

A 4-3 defeat United are left floored at the end both sides having put so much into the match, a highly entertaining final and great advert for women’s football in Cambridgeshire.

A double celebration for Cambridge City Ladies as they collect there league winners awards

and are the 2015/16 Cambridgeshire S-Tech Insurance League Cup Winners

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies on their League Cup win and doing the double Premiership Champions in their 1st season playing women’s football. A tinge of sadness to the occasion as for a few of the squad it’ll be their final game for the club.. for now at least as they go off to attend university. A great way to end things though.

Thanks to Cambridgeshire FA’s Chris Abbott once again for his help a busy time for himself and the rest of the staff within the County FA, 31 Finals in total in recent weeks and Chris has been at 29 of them, is ready for a rest so on behalf of everyone who plays and supports the game thanks for all that happens to get these finals on is greatly appreciated.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Category Archives: Cup Final

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Brentwood Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

Cup Final Report – Northampton Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

Cup Final Report – Northampton Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

Cup Final Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

Match Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Writtle Ladies

Cup Final Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Writtle Ladies

Cup Final Report – Harlow Ladies v Runwell Hospital Ladies

Cup Final Report – Harlow Ladies v Runwell Hospital Ladies

Cup Final – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

Cup Final Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves