With several of the sides from the Premier Division involved in the FA Women’s Cup this weekend their was just the one fixture played and 2nd placed Writtle Ladies took full advantage of leaders Billericay Town Ladies cup distractions by winning the 3 points away from home against 4th place Colney Heath Ladies to go top of the table with their 5th straight league win, 6 unbeaten to start the season. Lucy Hancock scoring a brace for Colney Heath. Writtle scoring 4 goals to take the 3 points. A brace for Leanne Stubbings along with a goal each for Courtney Clarke and captain Abigail Fry.
ERWFL Division One North
3 matches played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday and the lead at the top of the table changes once again with others dropping points above them, King’s Lynn Town Ladies bounced back from last weekends away defeat to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies to take the 3 points home with them this time around away to Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Goals from Georgia Reardon and Shelley Woods putting King’s Lynn 2-0 up. Cambridge quickly pulled a goal back Ellen Green but were unable to get another 2-1 the final score.
Ipswich Wanderers Ladies were the ERWFL Division One North table toppers going into the weekend ahead of Histon Ladies who were their opponents on Sunday travelling to the Glassworld Stadium it was Ipswich Wanderers who held the narrow advantage at the break Michelle Taylor-Allum with the goal. Histon were back on level terms almost immediately in the 2nd half Alison Wright getting the equaliser. A tight contest no more goals scored the points shared. Histon remain unbeaten but have lost their 100% winning start.
A tough start to life at the higher level for Ipswich Town Ladies Development 4 straight defeats for a slowly improving side paid dividends last weekend as they won their 1st game in the ERWFL Division One North. Followed that up with a 2nd successive win this weekend at home to bottom side Silver End United Ladies. Goals from Cat Upton, Emily Steward and Coral Young securing a 3-0 win.
ERWFL Division One South
5 wins from 5 see Stevenage Ladies Reserves go 9 points clear at the top of ERWFL Division One South. At home at the weekend taking on bottom side Hertford Town Ladies who themselves have yet to take a point from 5 played. Goals from Holly Darling, Hannah Marshall and Becky Day seeing Stevenage win the game 3-0.
A tough day at the office for Bishops Stortford Ladies last weekend a heavy defeat to Stevenage Ladies Reserves were looking to bounce back this Sunday at home to Hutton Ladies who were finally getting their league campaign underway. Bishops Stortford had Brooke White sent off and 2 more players stretched off during the game. Hutton Ladies getting off to a winning start a single goal from Kate Lowen giving them 3 points to lift them up into mid-table.
Billericay Town Ladies continue to set the pace in the ERWFL Premier Division as they record their 5th straight win at the start of the season. At home this Sunday were taking on 4th placed Bedford Ladies a close game between the 2 sides Billericay edging Bedford to the 3 points courtesy of a 3-2 win. Sally Appleton, Lauren Knight and captain Lindsey Morgan with the goals for the Essex side. Michelle Byrne and Olivia-Rose Cunningham scoring for Bedford.
2 points back in 2nd spot also undefeated this season in the ERWFL Premier Division are Writtle Ladies recording a 4th straight win away to Lowestoft Town Ladies this Sunday and in doing so doubled their goals scored tally in the process. A heavy defeat for Lowestoft Town Ladies who after winning 2 games in a row finding some form started the 2nd game in a row with just 9 available. Tough enough against any side but up against an in form side like Writtle it was too much. Leanne Stubbings finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match top scored. There were hat-trick each for Sophie Vale and Ellie Bowdidge. Courtney Clarke and captain Abigail Fry both scoring twice with Charlotte Bryant also on target in a 15-0 win.
Acle United Ladies travelled down to Essex to play bottom side Colchester Town Ladies at the weekend having bolstered an already strong squad with 3 new faces during the week. A full squad travelling Acle took the lead in the 10th minute Megan Todd putting them 1-0 up. Colchester got back on level terms. Acle with more possession went on to retake the lead midway through the half Grace Birchall scoring added another 3 minutes before half-time to see Acle lead 3-1. Todd scored her 2nd of the game 9 minutes into the 2nd half to extend Acle’s lead. Kate Pasque scored from a free-kick to make it 5-1 to Acle. Rebecca Donnelly pulled a goal back for Colchester with 20 minutes left. Birchall getting her hat-trick in the final minute sealing a 6-2 win.
Colney Heath Ladies climb up to 4th in the Premier Division table after scoring late to get a point at home to Royston Town Ladies on Sunday the visitors coming into the game off the back of a high scoring 1st win of the season. Took the lead late in the 1st half Becky Shephard putting the ball into the back of the net. 1-0 the advantage to Royston for much of the 2nd half both sides creating chances, awarded a free-kick Colney Heath found an equalising goal Victoria Allen on the end of the set-piece sending the ball home to make it 1-1 the points shared enough to take Colney Heath from 6th to 4th.
A much needed 2nd win of the season for Cambridge City Ladies takes them away from the bottom of the Premier Division table up to 7th as they edged out visitors AFC Dunstable Ladies to the 3 points, a goal from Bella Simmons along with an own goal sealing a 2-1 victory. Chelsea Forde scoring for Dunstable who drop to 10th in the table.
Also a much needed win for AFC Sudbury Ladies who had just one win previously in the league dropping to 2nd bottom were away to Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday returning home to Suffolk with all 3 points after a brace from Charlene Roach saw them win the game 2-1 and climb up to 8th in the Premier Division. Leah Cowan scoring the goal for Brentwood.
A brace from Charlene Roach secures the 3 points for AFC Sudbury Ladies
ERWFL Division One North
Ipswich Wanderers Ladies climb to the top of the ERWFL Division One North table after a a 2-0 home win over previously unbeaten King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A goal each for Jessica and Michelle Taylor-Allum seeing the home side to the win their 3rd of the season taking them to 10 points have played more than anyone else but is proving to be a competitive league early on.
Ipswich Town Ladies Development are starting to find their feet at a higher level after suffering 4 straight losses have been improving and picked up their 1st win of the season at home to Cambridge United WFC Reserves at the weekend. leading 2-0 at half-time with Emily Steward scoring both goals. Cambridge improved 2nd half scoring twice, Ruth Fox with her 1st goal for the club along with Ebony Rule. Steward completing her hat-trick winning the match for Ipswich 3-2.
ERWFL Division One South
Stevenage Ladies Reserves have started the ERWFL Division One South season very strongly scoring lots of goals 4 wins in a row to top the table were in ruthless form away to Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday scoring 20 goals without reply in their previous 3 league matches. Hit Bishops Stortford for 16 without reply, Hannah Marshall scoring 5 goals in the game, Emily Scofield with a hat-trick. Daniela Martucci, Becky Day and Holly Darling all getting a brace. Naomi Sleator and Rebecca Brooker also on the scoresheet taking Stevenage to 36 goals from just 4 games zero conceded looking strong. A result to forget for Bishops Stortford onto the next one.
Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies also maintain a 100% winning start to the league albeit this weekends game just their 2nd in ERWFL Division One South. Away to Hertford Town Ladies a double for Georgia Fraser securing the 3 points taking them into 3rd place in the table.
ERWFL League Cup
Two games scheduled to be played in the 1st Round of the ERWFL League Cup this Sunday, Histon Ladies were awarded the win against Silver End United Ladies after their opponents couldn’t field a side. Elsewhere it was an all Division One South tie with Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies hosting Harlow Town Ladies. Abbey Dell scoring in the 1st minute for Harlow Town, Chloe Bassett adding a 2nd deep into 1st half injury time. Frances Gamble wrapping up a 3-1 win for the visitors 3 minutes from time to see Harlow advance in the competition.
With it being an FA Women’s Cup weekend several side from the 3 divisions were still involved in the competition, that left a limited league programme with 4 games being played some big results in those however.
ERWFL Premier Division
One game in the ERWFL Premier Division, Colchester Town Ladies bottom of the table playing their 2nd league game of the season were hosting Lowestoft Town Ladies on Sunday. A great comeback from 3-1 down last time out in the league saw Lowestoft win 4-3 to pick up their 1st win of the season after a difficult summer and start to the season. Leading 2-1 at half-time Lowestoft went on to claim a 2nd successive league win to move them up to 5th in the table the final score 3-2 captain Hannah Waters claiming a 2nd successive hat-trick. Nancy Butler and Millie Wilding getting the goals either half for Colchester.
ERWFL Division One North
3 wins from 3 games sees Histon Ladies return to the top of ERWFL Division One North winning away from home against Essex side Silver End United Ladies a narrow victory Histon claiming the 3 points courtesy of a 2-1 win goals from Sophie Hopkin and Alison Wright. Lisa Nepean scoring for Silver End who remain without a point on the board after 4 league matches.
Also on 0 points at the bottom of the ERWFL Division One North table are Ipswich Town Ladies Development a tough start to life at a higher level. Were at home on Sunday playing in an Ipswich derby against Ipswich Wanderers Ladies an experienced side at this level. Goals from Jess and Michelle Taylor-Allum along with a goal for Melissa Strickland seeing Ipswich Wanderers win 3-1 to move them into 3rd level with 2nd placed Wymondham on 7 points. Harriet Petley scoring for Ipswich Town Ladies Development.
ERWFL Division One South
In ERWFL Division One South, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies claimed their 1st win of the season with a narrow 2-1 win away to fellow bottom side Hertford Town Ladies. Charley Handley scoring for Hoddesdon in the 26th minute. 1-0 the lead at half-time Hoddesdon had chances to go further ahead however it was Hertford who found the back of the net Donna Watts levelling the scores. Into the last 5 minutes of the game and Hoddesdon scored again Kristina O’Connell striking the ball into the back of the net to win the game.
Three sides went into the weekend with a 100% winning start at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division, something had to give however as 2 of those sides met with Acle United Ladies playing host to Billericay Town Ladies. It was the side from Essex that started the better and took an early 2-0 lead Paris Smith scoring both goals. That the lead at half-time Acle United pulled a goal back in the 2nd half to make it 2-1, Grace Birchall getting the goal. Billericay didn’t take too long to respond restoring their 2 goal cushion with Smith completing her hat-trick to make it 3-1 the final score Billericay now the only side in the league with a 100% winning record after 3 played.
In 2nd spot Bedford Ladies lose their 100% record but remain unbeaten with 7 points from their 3 opening league games after they held AFC Dunstable Ladies to a 1-1 draw away from home on Sunday. Michelle Byrne scoring the goal for Bedford. Isabelle Attenborough netting the goal for AFC Dunstable.
A good week for Writtle Ladies as they climb up to 3rd in the Premier Division unbeaten in 3 games a 1-0 away win against Cambridge City Ladies in mid-week to build upon an opening day 5-5 draw with AFC Dunstable Ladies. Were at home for the 1st time this season on Sunday against AFC Sudbury Ladies who they had lost to 4-3 in 1st Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup. A 4-3 defeat to Writtle then. Facing each other a week later Sudbury travelling without a few injured players including goalkeeper Penny Everett. Harriet Young taking over in goal. Writtle took an early lead going on to double the advantage before half-time. Young was injured in a nasty collision in the 1st half and was unable to continue. Writtle extended the lead 2nd half but Sudbury fought back pulling it back to 3-2 with Megan Partridge scoring both goals. Writtle going on to score twice more winning the game 5-2 to take 7 points from their 1st 3 league games their goals scored by Abigail Fry, Sophie Vale, Amy Simmons and a brace for full back Lucy Jones. A concussion along with a broken nose and finger for Harriett Young, wishing her all the best for a speedy recovery.
Brentwood Town Ladies are up to 5th in the Premier Division with their 1st league win of the season a late goal for Colney Heath Ladies denying the all 3 points in their opening league game finishing 2-2, Brentwood held on for the win this time winning 2-1 Angela Arnold and Nina Boorman with the goals to see them to victory. Royston Town scoring through Becky Shephard still without a point after 3 played.
A tough start to the ERWFL Premier Division for relegated Lowestoft Town Ladies rebuilding a squad 2 heavy defeats home and away to begin the season were at home this Sunday and picked up a moral boosting win coming back from 3-1 down to win 4-3 against Cambridge City Ladies. The newly promoted Division One Champions travelling to Suffolk after a frustrating 1-0 loss to Writtle Ladies in mid-week going into a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Stacey Fullicks and a double for Bella Simmons. Lowestoft fought back 2nd half a goal from Nicola Sheldrake along with a triple for captain Hannah Waters seeing them take all 3 points lift the club into 8th position.
ERWFL Division One North
Wymondham Town Ladies travelled to Essex on Sunday to play Silver End United Ladies returning home with the 3 points to continue their unbeaten start to the season their 7 point haul returning them to the top of the Division One North table. Plenty of goals in the side too a return a 18 now from 3 lead games. Nadine Basson and Alice Collins both scoring a brace with a goal each for Brook Cheal-Ferris, Kayleigh Holloway and Mollie O’Callaghan in a 7-0 win. Silver End United remain without a point after 3 played.
Histon Ladies returned to 2nd in the Division One North table playing their 2nd league game made it 2 wins from 2 away to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies on Sunday also unbeaten after 2 played. Ipswich Wanderers taking the lead in the 11th minute Jade Horne putting the ball into the back of the net. Histon got back on level terms midway through the 1st half Hannah Gordon with the strike. 1-1 at the break Histon took the lead in the game with 15 minutes left to play Gordon with her 2nd of the game was immediately followed by a goal for Sophie Hopkin, now 3-1 ahead Histon went on to win 4-1 with Kirstee Smith grabbing herself a goal with 3 minutes left.
Histon Ladies, Hannah Gordon
Also making it 2 league wins from two to lay 3rd in the Division One table are King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Were at home on Sunday taking on the then league leaders Cambridge United WFC Reserves. A competitive contest between the two sides King’s Lynn running out 4-2 winners the result seeing Cambridge drop below them into 4th just a point between the top 4 sides. Katie Cross and Faith Hewitt on the scoresheet for Cambridge. King’s Lynn’s 4 goals were scored by Oksana Imanalijeva, Bethan Jones, Becky Russell and Shelley Woods.
ERWFL Division One South
19 goals from their opening 2 league games as Stevenage Ladies Reserves lay down a marker for the rest of the sides in ERWFL Division One South. 10 against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies last time out were away to Hertford Town Ladies this Sunday. Continued their goal scoring streak dominating the 1st half leading 5-0 at the break went on to score 4 more in the 2nd half without reply to win 9-0. Hannah Marshall scoring 4 of their goals. A brace each for Becky Day and Daniela Martucci with Nicole Coull also getting on the scoresheet.
A confident draining defeat for Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies last time out were hosting newly promoted Harlow Town Ladies this Sunday. The visitors starting with a 5-0 mid-week victory over fellow promoted side Bishops Stortford Ladies. A much tighter game this time around Harlow had the better of the 1st half taking the lead in the 37th minute with Tayla Handscombe getting the goal. Lily Bruno scoring in 1st half stoppage time to put Harlow into a 2-0 lead. Couldn’t find a goal to make the points secure in the 2nd half Hoddesdon coming back into it late on to set up a nervous finish with Rosy Woodham making it 2-1 with 3 minutes left, Harlow held on to make it 2 wins from 2 their next game at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves playing tonight even as I type this Round-Up will update with the info and result from this top of the table clash when I have the result.
With most of the sides from the ERWFL entering the FA Women’s Cup, 1st Round Qualifying this Sunday there were just the two games played in the league in the ERWFL both the Division One. In Division One North, Cambridge United WFC Reserves were entertaining 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers Ladies who had started their season with a win and a draw. Cambridge came into the game with a 1-0 win under their belts over Ipswich Ladies Development after suffering an opening day loss to Histon Ladies. A tight game a single goal enough to see Cambridge secure all three points again Natalie Wells with the goal the win sending Cambridge to the top of the Division One North table.
ERWFL Division One South
The slow start to ERWFL Division One South continues with the single game in that league seeing Stevenage Ladies Reserves get their season off to a flyer laying down a marker to their rivals with a double figure win at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies. Becky Day opening her season with a hat-trick top scoring, their were braces too for Holly Darling, Hannah Marshall and Daniela Martucci with Emily Scofield also getting in on the goal scoring the +10 goal difference sending Stevenage Ladies Reserves to the top of the league. Harlow Town Ladies finally get their league campaign started in midweek at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies. Hutton Ladies will be playing catch up when they finally make their league bow scheduled for October at the moment, cup games to come before that.
My 1st midweek game of the season a trip down into Essex to watch a game another game from the ERWFL this time in the new Division One South and the opening fixture for both sides as Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies host Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies.
With 5 new sides joining the ERWFL this season Division One once again is split into 2 leagues a North and a South. The South containing 7 sides has only seen the one game played to date with newcomers Bishops Stortford Ladies leading the way with a 3-0 win away to Hertford Town Ladies on Sunday. The V Festival and player unavailability delaying the start of the season.
Two sides beginning their season tonight under the lights an 8pm kick-off. A new home for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies this season playing at Bowers & Pitsea FC. Will be hoping for a better finish this time around having finished in 10th place in the single 11 strong Division One last season albeit on goal difference with 2 points separating the sides from 7th to 10th. Retain much of last seasons squad a young side. Charlotte Stephens joining after a spell studying abroad in America. Ebony Moore returning to the club after being with Hutton Ladies last season.
One of the few sides I haven’t seen play in the ERWFL to date, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies struggled last season finishing bottom of the table. Much change at the club then with their previous manager Reece Buck leaving to take on a coaching role at FAWPL side Stevenage Ladies taking a good number of experienced 1st team regulars with him. Meant new joint managers Matthew Norton and Fraser Wood fielding a lot of younger players a steep learning curve results didn’t come but by all accounts the side improved strongly as the season grew. Have new signings ahead of the season with both Kristina O’Connell and Leah Dunnage returning from Stevenage. Chloe Makepeace and Sian Owens making their debuts tonight.
Bowers & Pitsea FC, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies new home this season the non-league club investing in their pitch over the summer improving drainage and reseeding the grass it looks in great condition soft underfoot is a very large and wide pitch. A small covered seated stand on one side with covered standing behind one goal. Outside the pitch a large clubhouse and function room a wedding party in full swing. Car parking and plans in place to continue the improvements. A wet and miserable day the steady rain starting to die away remained dull and over cast however the pitch wasn’t affected at all.
Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Atlanta Fuwa, Courtney Fraser, Elysia King, Taylor Parrish, Taylor Adcock, Abbie Simmonds (C) Sydney Killick, Eloise Ives, Natalie Strange, Ebony Moore & Georgia Fraser. Subs – Danielle Styles, Kerri Thomas, Rhianne Holmes & Sophie Dowman.
Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies starting XI – Shannon Daly, Katie Kendle, Leah Dunnage, Charley Handley, Faye Holder, Chloe Makepeace, Robyn Jones, Kristina O’Connell, Charlotte Grogan, Sian Owens & Natasha Crick (C). Subs – Megan Davies, Stephanie Iaonnou, Summer Muir, Rachel Daltrey & Courtney Smart.
(Roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Hoddesdon to get the game underway kicking off 1st half are wearing their regular colours red and navy vertical striped shirts, with navy shorts and socks. Little Thurrock wearing orange shirts with black across the chest and sleeves, black shorts and socks. Hoddesdon attack straight from the off Kristina O’Connell in the centre passing to fellow midfielder Robyn Jones she sends the ball forwards for captain and striker Natasha Crick to go after, a touch but closed down by Little Thurrock’s Taylor Adcock the ball is won outside the box. A rapid counter attack the ball with right back Elle King taking it forwards has her captain Abbie Simmonds making a determined run forwards into the box King rolls the ball into her path taking it to the byline she cuts the cross back across the six yard box racing across the face of goal no one coming in far post to turn home.
GOAL! 3 minutes on the clock and Little Thurrock take an early lead the tempo high at the start the full width of the pitch being exploited by both sides Little Thurrock pressing the ball Hoddesdon can’t get it away won back inside their half the home side’s attackers look to turn in behind the through ball picks out Georgia Fraser left side in the box strikes the ball in low and hard towards the near post beats goalkeeper Shannon Daly over the line for 1-0.
End to end at the start both sides expanding alot of energy early on keen to get the competitve action started at last. Little Thurrock attacker Ebony Moore is presented with a shooting opportunity as Daly’s goalkick comes straight to her 30 yards out from goal pushing the ball forwards looks to open up her body curl her shot around the keeper from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of goal. Georgia Fraser getting possession of the ball 25 yards out left of goal carries it into the area in a similar position to where she scored has another go this time Daly going to ground is right behind the strike makes the save.
Hoddesdon get players forwards pressuring the Little Thurrock midfield inside their half Chloe Makepeace wins the ball knocking it inside for Charlotte Grogan in space centrally 35 yards out lines up a shot lacks the pace to trouble Fuwa in the Little Thurrock goal. Little Thurrock are prepared to push more players on when they have the ball their defence coming to the half way line they keep Hoddesdon penned back enjoying more of the ball doubling up on the right Georgia Fraser on the ball in the corner sends a cross back towards the top of the area, Moore’s there good control back to goal lays it off for the advancing Sydney Killick she takes on the shot puts the ball over the crossbar.
Charley Handley moves out of centre back to deal with the threat posed by Natalie Strange on the right for Little Thurrock the defender sliding in to tackle preventing the attacker getting a run into the box. Little Thurrock keep up the pressure in the final 3rd winning a corner kick on the right. King to take the set piece a good delivery long towards the far post Georgia Fraser up to head the ball knocking it down bounces wide.
Hoddesdon come forwards Jones knocking the ball on for Sian Owens attacking on the left wing making ground has support from Crick outside the box 25 yards out receives the pass plays in on for O’Connell who in turn plays it back to Grogan, twisting and turning the no 10 comes on before rolling the ball into Owens moving into position outside the D, she strikes the ball goalwards, Fuwa is behind it all the way claims comfortably.
Handley reacts quickly getting across to tackle Strange once again on the right as Georgia Fraser skillfully flicks on King’s 25 yard pass. Coming on again down the right a Little Thurrock win a free-kick outside the Hoddesdon box, players come forwards from the back as King sets the ball. The delivery towards the far post falls to the ground, Adcock is there for Little Thurrock 8 yards out latches onto the ball puts it wide across the goal. Up front on her own Crick is constantly looking to peel off the last defender get in behind whenever Hoddesdon mount an attack, does so as O’Connell threads the pass along the ground into her path moving right into the area pulls the trigger puts her shot straight into the keepers gloves.
A change for Little Thurrock with Danielle Styles entering the game midway through the 1st half. Little Thurrock are having more of the attack win a corner right another well delivered ball from King drops into the six yard box central Georgia Fraser lunges out to connect with the ball scoops it up over the crossbar. A change for Hoddesdon with Stephanie Iaonnou coming on for Jones. Iaonnou links up with Owens on the left side as Hoddesdon attack the pass inside for Makepeace she tries to feed Crick the ball as the striker enters the box from the right she is quickly closed down and crowded off the ball by 3 Little Thurrock defenders.
GOAL! Little Thurrock have had the better chances 1st half but with 40 minutes played Hoddesdon get themselves back on level terms. O’Connell with a great run on the ball driving through the centre plays it on for Crick making a run left to get into the box in behind, can she reach the ball before the keeper, Fuwa goes to ground, Crick gets a toe on the ball knocks it past her goes after it the angle going away from her gets the shot in with defenders rushing back the ball turned towards goal finds its way into the back of the net to make it 1-1.
The game restarts with Styles and Strange switching sides, Styles right now plays the ball on for Moore through the middle a race for the ball with Handley the central defender sticking out a leg to take the ball away from the Little Thurrock attacker. Daly with a good claim under pressure from Moore minutes later as Styles whips a high diagonal ball into the area.
GOAL! A goal out of nothing sees Little Thurrock restore their lead in the closing minute of the 1st half the ball is kicked out of the box by Daly into midfield won by Little Thurrock the pass picking out Styles on the right in space a long way out but aware the goalkeeper is out of position strikes the ball high towards goal on target backpedalling Daly can’t reach it as it flies over her and bounces into the goal 2-1.
Styles causing Hoddesdon a few problems since coming on. On the left side Strange puts the cross into the box Iaonnou inside the six yard box blocks a shot the ball rebounding out towards Abbie Simmonds 25 yards out central the Little Thurrock captain goes for goal the ball fired back in over the bar. Into stoppage time in the 1st half Little Thurrock are finishing strongly Simmonds bringing the ball on puts it into Styles ahead of her King seeing space to run into goes beyond her receiving the pass fires a cross into the area players from both sides attack the ball Handley winning it initially isn’t clear on the floor Little Thurrock’s Moore gets a shot away, Daly making the save at pointblank range the ball going away for a corner kick. Dealt with.
Half-time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 2-1 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
A narrow lead for Little Thurrock at the break taking an early lead and creating further chances to extend their lead Hoddesdon have defended stoutly their defence kept busy. Both sides enjoying the space the pitch offers have put alot into the 1st half may tell 2nd half as legs tire. Hoddesdon with fewer chances and these shots from outside the box. Crick offering a threat up top with O’Connell making some useful runs in the middle getting it back to 1-1 only to concede soon after.
With roll on roll off substitutes in play and the dugouts being on the opposite side of the pitch to where I’m watching a good distance hard to keep track of all the comings and goings. 2 changes for Little Thurrock as they kick-off the 2nd half Moore and Killick are off with Kerri Thomas and Sophie Dowman on. Hoddesdon win possession Grogan playing the ball long for Crick the ball bouncing over Parrish, Fuwa is quickly out to jump and claim the ball before the striker can capitalise. Both sides counter attack, Hoddesdon with Crick after the ball Parrish clears, then up the other end Handley dives in to make a challenge gets hurt and the trainer is immediately called for. A lengthy pause in play however Handley somewhat gingerly is back to her feet and going off the field is soon allowed back on.
Courtney Fraser is called into action at the back for Little Thurrock as Hoddesdon’s O’Connell makes a run with the ball centrally plays the pass on into the box with Grogan the furthest forwards the full back coming across on the cover to put the challenge in win the ball.
GOAL! Little Thurrock like they did in the 1st half score early to open up a 2 goal cushion. Georgia Fraser on the ball left side into the Hoddesdon half moves infield rolls it a across for Thomas, Styles is on the move right side looking for the ball to be passed into her run inside the area Thomas obliges Styles takes it on right of goal a tight angle drills a shot in near post Daly drops to make the save the ball squirms away from her and into the back of the net beyond 3-1.
Hoddesdon win their 1st corner of the game 10 minutes into the 2nd half the delivery inviting just over the head of Handley jumping in the centre of the six yard box. Simmonds heads the ball out towards the top of the area a shot is taken the ball sent wide of goal. Katie Kendle gets across to tackle Dowman as Georgia Fraser looks to send her clear on the left wing. Fraser comes off then with Eloise Ives rejoining the action. The energy levels remain high space is opening up here and their Hoddesdon break up a Little Thurrock attack Holder on for Kendle bringing it on right has Grogan ahead of her she turns with the ball and releases O’Connell grass in front of her tries an ambitious cross towards the far post with Crick trying to get on the end of it throws herself at the dropping ball but doesn’t connect.
Megan Davies is on for Hoddesdon in at left back Dunnage more central. Simmonds is off for Little Thurrock, Killick back on. The ball is moving up and down the pitch Adcock clears as Crick looks to chase a ball played through from Grogan. Dowman through the middle for Little Thurrock looks to attack the box looking to plough her way through Dunnage and Handley converge to close the door in front of her. Dowman isn’t put off though and with the ball at her feet again right of the D lets fly from 20 yards coming in fast and skipping off the surface Daly makes a great save knocking the ball up and over the ball as she falls forwards.
Handley clears the corner from the right at the near post. Summer Muir is sent into the game for Hoddesdon replacing Grogan moving into a central striking position Crick moving left. Kendle too is taken off with Rachel Daltrey taking up the right back position. Styles on the run with the ball for Little Thurrock right side sends the pass on for Dowman inside the box she turns and shoots Daly saving with the block a close range neither aware the offside flag was up against Dowman. Georgia Fraser comes back on for Little Thurrock.
Daltrey clears the ball off the goal line for Hoddesdon as a cross is whipped in from the right, Daly can only get her fingertips to the ball not enough to stop it flying goalwards the defender back on the cover. Play is stretched late on Jones returns to the field in place of Iaonnou for Hoddesdon.
GOAL! Little Thurrock strengthen their grip on their 1st 3 point haul of the season as they score a 4th goal. The build up right side a high ball in towards the near side of goal Daly parries the ball away the clearance played out falls straight to Georgia Fraser time to pick her spot takes on the shot sending the ball high into the far top corner of the net Daly unable to get back across her goal in time 4-1.
Changes thick and fast now for Little Thurrock Rhianne Holmes introduced with Moore also back on. Holmes at right back for Little Thurrock clearing an O’Connell cross flashed across the face of goal as Muir rolls her in inside the box. Not long left now Muir has given Hoddesdon’s attack a little more impetus late on Crick and O’Connell pushed on Little Thurrock with a 3 goal cushion dropping off a little.
GOAL! Possession with Hoddesdon outside the Little Thurrock area on the left side Muir linking up with Crick 30 yards out takes on the shot is a great strike flying across Fuwa’s six yard box the keeper turning to see the ball land in the back of the net as Crick becomes the 3rd player of the night to complete a brace 4-2.
One final attack with Little Thurrock and they almost steal in to score a 5th goal the ball sent long up into the area the bounce deceiving the keeper skipping up over her looks to be going on to creep inside the far post Dowman after it, so too is the Hoddesdon defence the ball hooked off the goal line once again.
Full time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 4-2 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies
Little Thurrock win the game 4-2 to begin their season with a win the 3 points putting them straight into 2nd behind Bishops Stortford on goal difference. A winning start at their new home played well for the win an early goal setting them on their way. Creating chances have plenty of attack minded players. Hoddesdon getting back into the game only to concede again. The visitors with fewer chances did well but were always on the back foot after conceding early goals in both halves 4-2 a fair reflection of the game and despite the the loss Hoddesdon should be encouraged by the performance, both the North & South Division One’s in the ERWFL will be competitve this season.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Little Thurrock Dynamos, Georgia Fraser. Good movement on and off the ball, timing her runs into the box and always available for the ball with two well taken goals.
A two hour trip home hence a later than normal match report but good to be on the road again. An enjoyable game under the floodlights tonight. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team line-ups.
Into the 2nd weekend of the ERWFL season, August Bank Holiday weekend too. Hot and sunny for a change. All the sides in the Premier Division and Division One North are finally up and running whilst in Division One South 2 sides finally play.
ERWFL Premier Division
Billericay Town Ladies continue to lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division making it 2 wins from 2 with another big win away from home this weekend taking on Lowestoft Town Ladies at Crown Meadow. Billericay more often than not up at the top of the Premier Division table with the title contenders building on their impressive 12-1 win over newly promoted Colney Heath Ladies last Sunday were too strong for a Lowestoft Town side in a rebuilding process after suffering relegation from the FAWPL last season. 2 goals for Lauren Knight, along with a goal each for Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Hope Strauss and captain Lindsey Morgan seeing the Essex side win 6-1. Hannah Waters, captain of Lowestoft Town Ladies getting their goal.
Bedford Ladies maintain their 100% winning start to the season as they edged the win away from home against Royston Town Ladies on Sunday to keep them 2nd in the Premier Division table after their opening day win at home to Lowestoft Town Ladies. A brace from Natasha Fensome along with a goal for Maya Sidhu seeing Bedford claim all 3 points winning 3-2. A 2nd straight defeat for Royston Town Ladies who have made some interesting signings over the close season amongst them Becky Shephard from Hertford Town Ladies who scored both the goals for Royston on her debut this Sunday.
Acle United Ladies are 3rd also with 2 wins from 2 to start the season began with a 5-1 win away to AFC Dunstable Ladies last Sunday. Were at home this Sunday taking on another side that had scored 5 goals in their opening game of the season Suffolk’s AFC Sudbury Ladies. Is this weekends featured game on the website and the match report can be found a couple of posts down. Playing at the FDC Flegg and all weather 3G pitch home to their training ground too Acle United started the match strongly creating chances before taking the lead just before the quarter hour marking Lauren Bullard on hand to turn Megan Todd’s cross in at the far post. Sudbury responded quickly Sophie Jeffery causing havoc up the left wing sending a cross in for Stacey Teager to send into the back of the opposition goal. Acle United were finding room in behind the Sudbury defence and pressing the ball in midfield defender Anna Larkins broke clear down the right sending in towards goal a great ball dipping over the goalkeeper into the far top corner to make it 2-1. Acle United captain Rebecca Burton sending Todd through clear on goal getting the rebound of the goalkeeper favourably to take the ball past her and put into the empty net to make it 3-1 the lead at half-time.
New signing Ciera Flatt with the ball for Acle United Ladies
Sudbury regrouped after the break started the 2nd half well however it was Acle United who would further extend their lead breaking and this time Burton was on hand to turn the ball home inside the box a defensive clearance going straight to her. Sudbury responded quickly again to pull it back to 4-2, Mia Etheridge putting the ball into the back of the net from a corner kick. An extended 2nd half period due to injury midfielder Broghan Scully played in by Todd scored to seal a 5-2 win for Acle United.
Cambridge City Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division as Division One Champions, in their 1st season playing at regional level had to wait a weekend before getting their campaign underway and got it off to a winning start taking them straight up into 4th position. Giving debuts to 4 players from their U16s last season, Cambridge City were on the road in Essex taking on Colchester Town Ladies. Bella Simmons was Cambridge City’s top scorer last season with 25 goals. Started her Premier Division season by scoring 4 goals helping Cambridge City to a 7-0 away win. Stacey Fullicks, Sarah Mosley and Megan Tonks also opening their goal accounts on the way to the 3 points.
The match between AFC Dunstable Ladies who had lost their opening game and Writtle Ladies who were starting their season featured 10 goals! The points however were shared as they both rattled in 5 goals a piece! Danielle Carty, Rianne Townsend-Brown and Beth Stanton all getting a goal each along with a brace for Charlotte Smith for the Bedfordshire side. There was a brace too for Essex’s Writtle with Sophie Vale grabbing two goals. Abigail Fry, Ellie Bowbidge and Lynsey Bowman signing from Silver End United Ladies all getting a goal in their opening match.
The points were shared too between Colney Heath Ladies and Brentwood Town Ladies. The newly promoted Hertfordshire side, Colney Heath still down to the bare bones with just the 11 available. Brentwood Town Ladies building with a new Reserve side this season were starting their season and held the advantage at half time away from home leading 1-0 doubled the lead in the 2nd half but frustratingly left with only a point. Leading 2-0 with 85 minutes played through goals for Drew Allen and Holly Griffin. Colney Heath battled back to win their 1st point of the season Nicola Hollick scoring both their goals. A needed boost after their heavy opening game defeat.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North both Ipswich Wanderers Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies had started the season with a win. Wymondham top rattling in 9 goals at home on the opening day. Were away to Ipswich Wanderers this Sunday. Both sides had to settle for a point however with neither finding a winning goal in the 2nd half. The 1st half saw Wymondham take the lead in the 13th minute with Mollie O’Callaghan on target. Ipswich Wanders drew level 9 minutes later with Wymondham retaking the lead a minute later through Laura Wiseman. 12 minutes the lead lasted this time before Ipswich Wanderers pulled it back to 2-2 captain Tanya McKew and Jade Horne with their goals both remain 1st and 2nd in the league.
With 7 sides contesting the league it was King’s Lynn Town Ladies who sat out the opening weekend. Started this Bank Holiday Sunday at home to Essex side Silver End United Ladies who had begun with a 3-1 loss to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies last weekend. King’s Lynn eager to test themselves at a higher level got off to a great start winning the match 3-1 to go 4th. Josie Turner and captain Shelley Woods both scoring along with Elle Bocking on hand in the box to head home their 3rd goal. Roxanne Gardner scoring for Silver End.
Also joining the ERWFL Division One North with King’s Lynn Town Ladies this season were Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Champions, Ipswich Town Ladies Development and Cambridge United WFC Reserves. Both started the season with a loss and a result they will want to forget. Ipswich Development were hosting Cambridge United this weekend. A much improved performance from both and a very close game that could have gone either way in the end the game was won by a single goal, Kevin Hoover’s Cambridge side winning 1-0 Kirsty Geal scoring the goal.
ERWFL Division One South
Finally we have a game to bring you from ERWFL Division One South and it couldn’t have been a better start to live in the regional league for newly promoted Bishops Stortford Ladies as the Beds & Herts Champions won 3-0 away from home against Hertford Town Ladies. Last seasons top scorer Kathryn Stanley getting two goals along with a goal for Brogan McHale to put them top of the table albeit with just the one game played between the 7 sides nevertheless they all count when you’re top of the league.
On to the ERWFL opening weekend The Round-Up continues with the Eastern Regional Leagues. Three leagues this season with an influx of 5 new sides. The Premier Division contested by 12 sides with Cambridge City Ladies and Colney Heath Ladies promoted from Division One last season. This season Division One is once again split into 2 leagues a North and a South with 7 sides in each playing each other 3 times. The South Division One was supposed to contain 8 sides but very sadly on the eve of the season Offley & Stopsley WFC a long established side in the ERWFL took the hard decision to fold due to lack of players a real shame but wishing all the players and coaching staff all the best. Five new names in the league, Harlow Ladies and Bishops Stortford Ladies joining Division One South. King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Cambridge United WFC Reserves and Ipswich Town Ladies Development joining Division One North. With Offley & Stopsley WFC folding there were no games in Division One South on the opening weekend but a still plenty of action to bring you from the Premier Division and Division One North although some results hurt on the opening day.
ERWFL Premier Division
Acle United Ladies were one win away from sealing the ERWFL Premier Division title last season and promotion to the FAWPL they were playing Haringey Borough Women the winner taking the title, Acle lost Haringey celebrated winning the title. Nevertheless a fantastic season by the Norfolk side and they have a determination to go one better this time around on the whole have retained most of their squad have brought in goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook from North Walsham Angels Ladies. Kirstie Kindred and Olivia Mungham-Grey join from Thorpe United Ladies along with Ceira Flatt from Lowestoft Town Ladies. Started their season on the road in Bedfordshire away to AFC Dunstable Ladies who themselves enjoyed a fantastic season last tie around for the most part in 3rd position ultimately ending 4th. Have recruited a few Offley & Stopsley players including Charlene Moreton, Nicolle Robinson and Riane Townsend-Brown.
Acle took the lead at Creasey Park, captain Rebecca Burton putting them 1-0 up in the 1st half scored her 2nd from the penalty spot after midfielder Amber Rowland was brought down in the area. Dunstable got it back to 2-1 before the break. 2nd half Acle went on to extend their lead Megan Todd grabbing herself and opening day brace before Burton went on to score her hat-trick tapping home at the far post to seal a 5-1 win.
A 5-1 win wasn’t enough to put Acle top of the Premier Division however are actually 4th! The spot is Billericay Town Ladies after they had an emphatic win at home in their opening league fixture against league new comers Colney Heath Ladies. The visitors squad was a bit thread bare with a number of their squad unavailable were put to the sword by a Billericay side that has in recent season been challenging at the top of the ERWFL no so much last season finishing mid-table. Paris Smith bagged herself 5 goals on the opening weekend with her captain Lindsey Morgan not far behind with 4 there were goals to for Hayley Piggott, Lauren Knight and Nicole Farmer in a 12-1 win. Samantha May with the consolation goal for Colney Heath who will come back stronger.
Ending the opening weekend in 2nd spot in the table are Bedford Ladies, title challenges for most of the campaign last season only out of the running in the final month finishing 3rd 3 points off top spot. Have a young squad this time around but still expect them to be sniffing around the top of the Premier Division table. Were at home hosting Lowestoft Town Ladies relegated from the FAWPL last season. Were very close to folding just a month ago due to lack of players but an SOS call put out on social media was answered with a good response their new management team having a determination to get the club back on the right footing. New faces to bed in however it was Bedford’s more settled squad who came out on top a hat-trick for Eden Kibron along with goals for captain Michelle Byrne, Priya Bhatti and Natasha Fensome in a 7-0 win.
Into 3rd are AFC Sudbury Ladies performed well last season eventually ending up in 5th spot looked at times as if they could challenge the sides above them. Started the season at home to Royston Town Ladies. The goals were shared out amongst the team as Sudbury ran out 5-0 winners with Mia Etheridge, Phoebe Guiver, Sophie Jeffery, Megan Partridge and Stacey Teager all opening their scoring accounts.
4 sides weren’t in action will get their season started next weekend, Brentwood Town Ladies, Colchester Town Ladies, Writtle Ladies and newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies.
ERWFL Division One North
In ERWFL Division One North their were 3 games played on the opening weekend with 7 sides in the league it was King’s Lynn Town Ladies having to sit thing’s out get started this Sunday the 27th at home to Essex side Silver End United Ladies. Histon Ladies were relegated from the Premier Division after finishing bottom this season. Over the close season however the club has gotten stronger already linked with Histon FC and playing their home games at the Glassworld Stadium now have a new Reserves side to bolster the 1st team. Began the season with a tasty encounter a local derby with Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Histon formerly Great Shelford Ladies regularly playing Cambridge’s 1st team in the Invitation Cup Final. A different story today Cambridge United’s Reserve side having a few new faces and a squad stretched across both theirs and the 1st team squad players out through injury and unavailability it was Histon who took full advantage Sophie Lanham scoring to give Histon the lead in the 1st 5 minutes.
Abi Davies doubled the advantage to Histon midway through the 1st half with Katie Webb making it 3-0 on the half hour mark. Charlotte Westrope extended the lead further 20 minutes into the 2nd half, Cambridge had chances to pull a goal back nut Histon held onto the clean sheet to win 4-0 and get their season off to a winning start.
Histon are 2nd however as Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies who will be aiming for the title after clinching a 3rd place finish in their debut season in the ERWFL last season began with a strong home performance at home against new side Ipswich Town Ladies Development at King’s Meadow. Wymondham have recruited in the summer bringing in Luke Worley formerly Newmarket Town Ladies 1st team coach to assist manager Alex Guy, following Luke from Newmarket are striker Nadine Basson and midfielder Kirsten Hummel. Defender Lauren Kett has joined from Thorpe United Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan and Brooke Moreno are also new addition to an ambitious club.
It was O’Callaghan on her debut who got Wymondham into the lead scoring on her debut in the 11th minute went on to score her 2nd on the half hour mark. Laura Wiseman was Wymondham’s top scorer last season and got off the mark in the 34th minute to put the home side 3-0 up scoring her 2nd 4 minutes later to see Wymondham in control of the game with a 4-0 lead at the break. The goals continued 2nd half Kayleigh Holloway made it 5-0 5 minutes after the restart. Leah Newcombe wearing the captains armband today made it 6-0 scoring (and I’m quoting twitter here) a WORLDIE from 35 yards. New signings Basson and Moreno were both introduced from the bench and went on to score on their debuts Basson on 66 minutes and Moreno 3 minutes later. Wiseman completing her hat-trick in the last 10 minutes to wrap up a 9-0 win. Ipswich Town Ladies Development side unbeaten last season tasting defeat for the first time.
The last match from ERWFL Division One North featured Silver End United Ladies at home to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Silver End United Ladies have players back in their squad after suffering from departures last season that threatened the clubs survival have recovered and have confidence going into the new season. Ipswich Wanderers too have struggled for numbers in the past but are an established member of the ERWFL both are capable of pushing for the top of the table. It was Ipswich Wanderers who held the advantage at half-time leading 1-0, going onto claim all 3 points with a 3-1 win in the 2nd half captain Tanya McKew netting a brace along with a goal for Laura Tuley. Stephanie A’Len scoring for Silver End United Ladies.
Promises to be an interesting league, not seen the best of the new comers yet and both will be smarting after the opening weekend.
