Category Archives: ERWFL Premier Division

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 16th September

ERWFL Premier Division

 A trip down to Essex this Sunday afternoon to watch a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, newly promoted Harlow Town Ladies hosting Colney Heath Ladies.

  A clash between the sides currently 4th and 5th in the table both with 4 points each, still very early days in the league however with several of the ERWFL Premier Division sides involved in the early qualifying rounds of the FA Women’s Cup.

   A 4th successive promotion for Harlow Town Ladies having risen through the Essex County leagues before clinching runners-up spot in ERWFL Division One South last season. A win, draw and loss from their opening 3 league matches in the Premier Division. Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team for Harlow’s earlier successes has moved on to manage Norwich City Ladies in the FAWNL. A place in the FAWNL up for grabs for whoever wins ERWFL Premier Division title themselves. Dean Perrett in charge of the 1st team at Harlow now as the club look to continue to progress. A 1st team and Reserves side this season with ambition to create a girls section to establish Harlow as a force in the women’s game. 

   Colney Heath Ladies begin their 2nd season in the ERWFL Premier Division having finished runners-up in Division One to earn promotion. Was a difficult first campaign playing at that level, teams dropping out of the league which finished with 9 didn’t help their cause, ended bottom without a recorded win. The squad  stretched last season too have bolstered numbers for this season and added experience too, a much better start undefeated in their 4 matches played including a win and a draw in the Premier Division. 

  The Harlow Arena the venue for today’s game a superb facility that has hosted FAWSL 2 football in the past. An artificial playing surface a good sized pitch, overlooked by a large main stand along one side offering plenty of seating housing the changing rooms and clubhouse, bar and refreshments available. A smaller terraced stand opposite room to expand too. A pleasant sunny afternoon a stiff breeze blowing across the open ends of the ground.  

Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Charlie Orwell, Courtney Miller, Megan Sende, Kirsty Woodacre, Nicole Learner, Chloe Bassett, Kaydee King (C), Abbey Dell, Poppy Binding & Lily Bruno. Subs – Tayla Handscombe, Rubie Smith, Liv Steele, Tegan Burling & Maisie Ryan.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Amy Mullett (C), Kelly Hancock, Rebecca Fhalora, Annie Hickey, Lucy Hancock, Sophie Gardiner, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver, Sophie Joseph, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Kelly Glynn, Adrienne Milton & Sarah Brennan.

(roll on roll off substitutes) 

   It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway wearing red and white horizontal striped shirts with red shorts and socks with opponents Colney Heath lining up in blue shirts and shorts with white socks. The ball toing and froing in the middle of the park in the early stages Harlow attempting the 1st attack as captain Kaydee King wins possession inside the Colney Heath half and looks to sent the ball through for Abbey Dell on the left, a race for the ball across comes Kelly Hancock to slide in tackling Dell to put the ball out for a throw. 

The hosts with a chance to take the lead as the ball is pressed high up the pitch Dell has it on the left in towards Lily Bruno positioned at the top of the Colney Heath box left of the D plays it back to Poppy Binding central and turns into the area Binding returning the ball to Dell who has come infield plays the ball through to Bruno the striker is free having gotten herself across to the far post the Colney Heath defence static don’t react as Bruno shoots firing a shot back across goal wide of goalkeeper Amy Mullett but so too the post.

Colney Heath get the ball forwards rolled into Sheree Oliver central she puts the pass on for Christina Freestone ahead of her play switched to Rebecca Fhalora getting forwards on the left strikes the ball from outside the box her low effort running wide across the Harlow goal. The visitors make ground through the middle the ball played out to Rianne Townsend-Brown drifting right her cross blocked at close range by Chloe Bassett closing her down, a goal-kick the result.

Colney Heath Ladies, Rebecca Fhalora

   The referee spotting a shirt pull on Oliver, Colney Heath with a free-kick on the right 25 yards out from goal. The ball played up into the box, King with a firm header on the ball clears for Harlow. Nicole Learner bringing the ball on done the right for Harlow, Fhalora stepping in to make the tackle, the visitors build another attack moving the ball well, Moreton coming for the ball has options left and right aswell as Townsend-Brown ready to break in behind. Courtney Miller coming inside to cut out Moreton’s through ball.

Charlene Moreton with Harlow Town Ladies, Nicole Learner

Harlow bring the ball forwards with pace King linking up with Learner out to Farrell on the right wing a cross fired in low towards the near post Bruno arriving attempts to flick the ball on towards goal, instead it lands in the side netting. Binding lines up a strike from distance is charged down by Kelly Hancock, the rebound gathered by Binding she isn’t deterred has another go, Annie Hickey throwing out a leg to put in the block this time for Colney Heath. The game is a little physical but this is mainly down to which the pace the ball is being moved around Dell enjoying a good contest with her opposite number as she attacks on the left. 

GOAL! 12 minutes played and the visitors get themselves into the lead, Sophie Joseph on the ball central has Moreton in close attendance the ball into her put up towards the edge of the area, Townsend-Brown hustling the Harlow defence who don’t deal with the danger the Colney Heath striker strong gets hold of the ball bursting into the box and smashes a low shot across goal into the bottom corner 0-1.

 Harlow with a real chance to equalise straight away attacking up the other end the ball on the left fired inside into Learner outside the box she takes in on across the D is taken down as she goes to strike the ball, looked like it was inside the box but I’m on halfway the decision a free-kick a foot outside, a dangerous position, King over the ball lines up a strike, hitting the ball well it is always rising as it flies a half yard over the crossbar. 

  An open game both sides on the attack as soon as they have possession, Colney Heath have Oliver on the ball wide right squares the ball inside to Townsend-Brown, Kirsty Woodacre close in tackles to win the ball back for Harlow, counter attacking, Dell is given the ball on the left, tries to put the diagonal ball through towards Learner breaking forwards through the middle, can’t quite get there. The ball won in defence Colney Heath come forwards Oliver on the ball right plays it to Townsend-Brown central with Moreton ahead of her making a run into the area right of goal she receives the ball shoots, Charlie Orwell covering her near post is able to gather the ball for Harlow.

Sheree Oliver on the ball for Colney Heath Ladies

  Dell wins Harlow a corner on the left, a good delivery into the centre of the box the ball headed goalwards, a second Harlow header from close in the touch taking the ball over the bar. Amy Mullett is called into action making a fantastic save diving low to her left to deny Bruno as she is played through on goal as Harlow attack down the right Bassett on the ball, Bruno right off goal aiming for the bottom corner sees her shot saved. From the resulting corner, the ball played into the box, Dell can’t dig the ball out of her feet before Coley Heath close her down.

   Decisions going against Harlow frustration visible, a free-kick awarded left side 25 yards out, Moreton on the ball her strike wide of the far post. Hickey in to win the ball for Colney Heath the defender with a great ball realises Oliver who has been finding space on the right coming inside with the ball evades a couple of tackles on the top of the area before taking the ball inside, closing in on the near post she pulls the trigger but so close in Orwell has closed the door makes the blocking save. 

  Pressing the ball high up the pitch Harlow catch the Colney heath defence lingering on the ball Dell taking the ball wide out on the left fires a cross low and hard into the area, Bruno behind the ball near post top of the six yard box controls it enough to play back to Binding running in to the box central  shifts the ball as it comes into her and lets fly with a driven shot angling in towards goal, Mullett gets down quickly to her left to once more push the ball away behind to safety.

  GOAL! Harlow equalise midway through the 1st half the goal coming from a free-kick deep in the right players in the box as the ball is played up long into the area, dropping amongst bodies Colney Heath don’t deal with it Dell closest pouncing to smash the ball into the back of the net 1-1.

  Moments later Harlow come close to taking the lead, winning the ball back in the middle King with Bassett, the pass forwards finds Bruno left of the D, time to line up a shot, drags the attempt narrowly wide of the near post. Woodacre steps in to put the ball behind for a corner as Townsend-Brown tries to run onto a ball put into her from the left. Harlow try to break from the corner, Sophie Gardiner winning the ball back for Colney Heath. On another day Bruno would have a hat-trick in the bag by now as she shoots from 20 yards out the ball caught by Mullett before the striker sends another shot wide across goal from a similar position.

Chloe Bassett with the ball for Harlow Town Ladies

   A change for Harlow, Learner the player coming off, on in her place is Rubie Smith. The home side counter Bassett playing a one two with Bruno as she carries the ball forwards on the right going on to the byline sends a cross in towards the near post Hickey cutting the ball out concedes the corner. Moreton is brought down by Dell, a free-kick wide right for Colney Heath, Megan Sende defending for Harlow as Gardiner plays the ball into the box.

Colney Heath Ladies, Charlene Moreton

  Another free-kick in a similar position, Dell with another decision against her the Harlow bench not happy to, make a change Dell withdrawn, with Tayla Handscombe coming on. Gardiner to play the ball long into the area again for Conley Heath to attack going long falls to Townsend-Brown wide of the far post smashes a shot in across the face of goal strikes the far post back into play straight a Freestone little time to adjust her body takes on the 1st time strike screws the attempt away from goal. 

Annie Hickey sliding in to tackle for Colney Heath

  Colney Heath attack late in the first half, Sende intercepting the ball, Katie Farrell too doing well at the back as Moreton and Oliver try their luck on the right. Gardiner with a long pass forwards finds the ever willing Oliver running clear on the right down the line her squared cross into the middle on the area behind Townsend-Brown, Moreton coming in behind her connects sees her shot pulled wide. Kelly Hancock defending well for Colney Heath as Harlow mount a late attack, Binding looking to put the ball on for Bruno.

Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 1-1 Colney Heath Ladies

  All square at the break, 1-1 between the two sides. Chances to go further ahead for both Mullett with two vital saves for Colney Heath, whilst their attackers movements has caused the Harlow defence issues at the other end. Harlow have attacked well occasionally let down by decision making in the final 3rd. An open and lively game physical without being malicious an entertaining watch.

A blow for Colney Heath at the start of the 2nd half, forced into a change Hickey having taken a knock to the head feeling unwell rightly comes off, Kelly Glynn entering the game. Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway. The home side winning an early free-kick inside their opponents half the ball played forwards won by Freestone. A quiet start to the 2nd half Harlow pushing players onto the Colney Heath defence to apply more pressure to the ball, Mullett dealing well with an awkward situation inside her six yard box as the ball is put into her, Binding and Bruno both closing the keeper down put behind a goalkick given.

   King gets hold of the ball in the middle for Harlow bringing it forwards with purpose aims to lay it out to Handscombe attacking left, she can’t quite take the ball on into her stride. 

  GOAL! Moments later though Handscombe does get hold of the ball inside the Colney heath box to put the hosts into an early lead in the 2nd half. The ball played forwards into Handscombe left she comes inside just outside the box Bruno in close support the pass into the striker as Handscombe runs on past her the ball given back to her closing in on goal she gets her head over the ball and strikes an arrowing shot home before Mullett can move 2-1. 

Harlow Town Ladies, Tayla Handscombe

  A strong start to the 2nd half from Harlow, Binding sweeping the ball out to Bassett on the right she is tackled by Fhalora. Harlow come on again Smith with ball 30 yards out playing it into Bruno top of the area one touch and turns to shoot, Mullett making the save low to her right to push the ball away for a corner. Right side, Harlow bring on Liv Steele before it is taken.

 GOAL! Harlow double their lead from the corner kick the ball played into the area Colney heath struggle to get it away as it drops into the danger area deflected back out to Woodacre outside the area the central defender brings the ball away the the right the space opens up in front of her a sight on goal she takes the opportunity from 20 yards out hits the ball well it flies in across the goal to nestle in the bottom corner 3-1.

   11 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Harlow have gotten themselves into a strong position, Colney Heath make a 2nd change Gardiner coming off, Adrienne Milton coming on going into an attacking role. Smith on a free-kick on halfway for Harlow the ball up towards the edge of the area cleared by Lucy Hancock. Binding nipping in to win the ball carries on her run into the box strikes the ball the swerving shot angling back safely into the gloves of Mullett. 

Poppy Binding with Sophie Joseph

  Another injury blow in defence for Colney Heath, Fhalora down has to come off after lengthy treatment Sarah Brennan coming on for the visitors. Struggling to get anything going in attack Colney Heath have Townsend-Brown running with the ball on the left outpacing her marker cuts the ball back across the top of the area, spinning Milton back to goal tries to help it on through to Oliver on the right just can’t quite find her. Maisie Ryan comes on for Harlow replacing Binding. 

  Harlow are causing all sorts of problems for Colney Heath now is very nearly an own goal from a long free-kick launched into the area the ball headed narrowly wide of the post. King is coming forwards with the ball more in the 2nd half taking it away to the left cuts back to shoot from 20 yards out putting the strike straight at Mullett. Lucy Hancock sliding in to defend for Colney Heath as Harlow attack on the left. Glynn defends at the near post cutting out a cross from the byline as Handscombe gets away on the right for Harlow. 

Lily Bruno getting her head on the ball for Harlow Town Ladies

  Glynn in again on the edge of the box to charge down Steele as she lines up a shot from the edge of the area. Colney Heath have there backs to the wall can’t get the ball forwards as Harlow press the ball high up the pitch forwards passes not coming off like they were in the 1st half. Kelly Hancock gets back into the box to slide in a tackle Steele as she tries to work space for a shot left of goal as King sends her through. Tegan Burling comes on for Harlow replacing Bassett.

  GOAL! Harlow extend there lead the ball put down the line on the right from a set-piece after a pause in play knocked inside by Handscombe to Steele 20 yards out on for King who takes it further infield across the D looking for a shot hits a low left foot strike in towards goal runs away in celebration as it lands in the back of the net a well worked goal 4-1. King is substituted then with Dell coming back on. 

  Harlow have their tails up want more goals are dominant coming forwards once again Bassett with the ball right side lines up a shot from distance drags the shot wide across goal. Joseph comes forwards for Colney Heath moving wide right the ball rolled into her by Oliver she runs on down the wing before squaring a low cross into the area Townsend-Brown closing in on the penalty spot, attacking the cross doesn’t get a convincing touch as Orwell closing her down makes things difficult. Counter attacking the ball played on for Steele she has Bruno ahead of her ready to race onto the ball put into the box, Steele obliges, Mullett reads it well racing out to slide in and stop the ball for Bruno can let fly. 

  Dell is knocked out as she comes together in an accidental collision with Joseph as the Conley Heath midfielder tries to bring the ball out from the back catching Del on the side of her noggin, goes down like a sack of spuds. Play stops everyone knows Dell is out if it flat on the ground, but thankfully she comes round quickly but holding her head she’s taken straight off Binding coming back on.

  Chances rare for Colney Heath 2nd half, can’t get Oliver into the game like they did 1st half Townsend-Brown on the left powers forwards is tackled by Miller, the ball deflected to Milton she looks to tee up Freestone but her strike from distance is off the mark. Into injury time Harlow attack wide left Burling furthest forwards, Mullett comes a long way to slide into win the ball does but Burling’s momentum sees the pair collide. The injury brings an end to the game the final whistle blowing Harlow winning 4-1.  Burling back on her feet after receiving treatment. 

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Colney Heath Ladies

   A strong 2nd half performance from Harlow Town Ladies to secure the win scoring 3 goals after seeing chances going begging in the 1st half. Pressing the ball higher up the pitch, Colney Heath struggled to get going in the 2nd period after a good 1st half performance, forced into changes after injury during the game. Harlow were dominant in the 2nd half deserving the win. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Onto this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, it’s a tough one this Sunday a close call with 3 players in the running all from Harlow in the finish, Poppy Binding and Chloe Bassett doing well in midfield the captain edges them out however with a solid performance strong on the ball willing to get forwards and set up attacks, rounding it all of with a goal, Kaydee King is today’s Player of the Match.

 Both sides are in action in the FA Women’s Cup next Sunday tough trips for both against FAWNL South East Division One opposition, Cambridge United WFC await Harlow whilst Colney Heath travel to Billericay Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying. 

  An enjoyable afternoon at The Harlow Arena it’s good to see both sides again after missing out last season. Thanks as always for helping me out with the team details and Harlow Town for the hospitality.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 09/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 9th September

ERWFL Premier Division

 It was a top of the table clash in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday with Bedford Ladies and Acle United Women the top two at the beginning of the season. Acle United coming back from a 2 goal deficit to draw the game and take a point back to Norfolk. Two goals in the fist half-hour seeing Bedford take a 2 goal lead. Acle United coming back into the game early in the 2nd half with 2 goals in quick succession with 55 minutes played Laura Holden 1st then Amber Rowland striking to bring it back to 2-2 chances for both sides to win it but neither could find the back of the net one last time as it ended all both sides remain unbeaten. 

  Cambridge City Ladies move level with points with Bedford in 2nd spot as they won their 2nd league game of the season at the weekend. At home to Harlow Town Ladies who were unbeaten going into the match following promotion last season. Kaydee King with her first goal of the season put Harlow into the lead. Last season’s Premier Division runners-up came back to level the scores, winning the game in the 2nd half with 2 further goals to take the game 3-1. Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills and Isabella Simmonds netting the goals for Cambridge City.

   AFC Sudbury Ladies picked up their first league win of the season this Sunday following on from success in the FA Women’s Cup last weekend. At home were taking on AFC Dunstable Ladies who themselves were looking to build upon a win in the FA Women’s Cup. Mia Etheridge scoring to put Sudbury into a 1-0 first half lead. The hosts went onto win the game 3-1 with Sophie Jeffery and Semma Halil getting the goals. Samaira Khan getting the Dunstable goal on 57 minutes as they continue their search for a 1st league point.

   Leah Cowan scored a hat-trick at the weekend to help Brentwood Town Ladies secure their first league win of the season away to Haringey Borough Women. The hosts contesting well in the 1st half scoring 2 goals in the game through Lareace Thomas and Julia Carruthers, Brentwood coming on to be stronger in the 2nd period with Danielle Butler, Lauren Knight and Joanne Attridge adding a goal each to bolster Cowan’s hat-trick in a 6-2 win.

   Royston Town Ladies were finally getting their league campaign started and the Hertfordshire side began with a narrow victory on the road travelling to Norfolk to play newly promoted Wymondham Town Ladies. Goals from Danielle Carty and Sammy Tinsley putting the hosts into a 2-0 lead. Laura Nicholls pulling it back to 2-1 for Wymondham in the 65th minute the hosts couldn’t find an equalising goal in the final 25 minutes as Royston held on for the 3 points.

   Honours even at the Branch Bros Stadium on Sunday with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies sharing the points with Colney Heath Ladies. A double from Emma Pollard for the hosts, Nicola Hollick and Sheree Oliver were on target for Colney Heath in the 2-2 draw remain unbeaten at the start of the season whilst Peterborough Northern Star claim their first point.

ERWFL Division One

6 matches in ERWFL Division One on Sunday, league leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves going 5 points clear at the top of the table winning for the 4th straight league match albeit a closer result at home to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. A goalless first 45, Stevenage broke the deadlock early in the 2nd half Emily Schofield scoring in the 49th minute. Bowers & Pitsea were to come back and take the lead themselves with Sophie Dowman netting a brace in the 62nd and 73rd minute. Two goals in quick succession completely turning the game around for Stevenage coming 10 minutes from time Holly Darling making it 2-2 her goal quickly followed by the winner scored by Daniela Martucci her 5th goal of the season.

  Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies move into 2nd spot in the ERWFL Division One table after coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller at home to King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday. Goals from Kristina O’Connell and Summer Muir at either end of the 1st period seeing Hoddesdon leading 2-1 at the break O’Connell struck again early in the 2nd half with Charley Handley scoring what would prove to be the winning goal in the 64th minute. King’s Lynn coming away empty handed despite scoring 3 goals themselves, one from Oksana Imanalijeva and a brace for Rochelle Woods.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell

 St Ives Town Ladies were back in league action after a couple of weekends involved in the FA Women’s Cup. a 6-1 home win to start their season were on the road this weekend for the 1st time this season versus Bishops Stortford Ladies. Continued their fine start to the league since joining from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, a 5-1 win this time around Amy Seymour-Shove scoring a brace with a goal each for Tierney Coulson, Megan Stow and Caitlin Jarman. Rebekah Coppin getting the goal for Bishops Stortford.

Earning their 1st point in the ERWFL last weekend at home, Newmarket Town Ladies followed that up this weekend with their 1st league win against Hutton Ladies. The newly promoted side hosting the Essex side, a goal in each half scored by Brooke Wickens and Hollie Turner were the difference for Newmarket as they ran out 2-1 victors, Victoria Kinsman getting the goal for Hutton.

   Histon Ladies are finally off the mark in ERWFL Division One with their first league win of the season and it was a big win at home to to Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Alison Wright on target with a 1st half hat-trick for the Cambridgeshire side a brace from Katie Webb seeing Histon leading 5-0 at half-time two more goals coming in the closing minutes, Jordanne Sillitoe in the 88th and Kaya Haq deep into stoppage time. 

  Finally it was honours even between Hertford Town Ladies and Ipswich Wanderers Ladies as they both get their 1st league point on the board in ERWFL Division One drawing their league game 1-1 on Sunday. Ashley Bustos getting the goal for Ipswich Wanderers, Olivia Worsfold on target with the goal for Hertford Town.

 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 02/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd September

ERWFL Premier Division

 A limited fixture list within the ERWFL this Sunday with the majority of clubs taking part in the FA Women’s Cup, this weekend seeing First Round Qualifying taking place go to the previous post to see how those clubs fared. 

  One game was played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, Bedford Ladies hosting Haringey Borough Women. Starting the season with 2 successive draws Bedford recorded their first win of the season to lift them up to 2nd in the fledgling Premier Division table. Maya Sidhu finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the game. Jodie Molloy and Amy Magnus were also on target with a goal each in a 6-1 win. The tough start to the season continues for Haringey as they loose for the 3rd time.

ERWFL Division One

 4 matches played in ERWFL Division One on Sunday with league leaders Stevenage Ladies keeping up a 100% winning start to the season away to newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Emily Schofield netting a brace with Hannah Marshall also on target, an own goal securing a 4-0 victory and dare I say it no goals conceded yet either.

   2 wins from 2 at home for Hutton Ladies see the Essex side up to 2nd in Division One the latest victory coming on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. New signing Rosi Webb scoring a hat-trick in her first appearance for the club. Victoria Kinsman, Kaitlin Sugg and Hayley Critchell also scoring a goal each in a 6-2 result. Claire Pavett and Katie Williams on the scoresheet for Hertford.

   A good win on the road for newly promoted Lawford Ladies, building on last weekends home win picked up a 2nd 3 point haul with victory at King’s Lynn Town Ladies on Sunday. Both captain Daisy Canny and Tyler Christou bagging a brace each in a 4-1 win that lifts the Essex side up to 4th in the table. King’s Lynn Town’s goal coming from Jodie Hopkins captaining the side in her 1st game since returning to the club.

  Newmarket Town Ladies left it late to earn a draw at home to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies on Sunday and claim their first league point of the season. Natasha Crick scoring to put the visitors into the lead after 11 minutes 1-0 up at the break Newmarket got back level just after the restart. A dramatic finish to the game as Kristina O’Connell restored Hoddesdon’s lead in the 83rd minute the visitors couldn’t hold on however as Newmarket came back once again to level it at 2-2 in the closing minutes, Laura Bailey and Lauren Deller their goal scorers.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 26/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th August

ERWFL Premier Division

  The ERWFL games probably had one thing in common this Bank Holiday Sunday, it was wet! Rain sweeping in across the East for the afternoon. A shortened fixture list as a few sides were involved in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup which I shall get on with in a little while but 6 games across both the Premier and Division One to bring you first.

  A perfect start to the season for Acle United Women who lead the way in the ERWFL Premier Division with 2 wins from 2 to start the season and have now scored 11 without reply too. Were at home for the 2nd successive Sunday this time taking on Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies. Acle getting off to a flyer at the start of the game were 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Grace Birchall setting thing’s rolling with the opening goal on 5 minutes. Birchall adding another goal to her tally 7 minutes later, Naomi Cooper bringing up the 3rd goal on 15 minutes before being forced off with injury. A 3-0 lead for Acle at the break in terrible weather they held their lead adding a further goal in the 2nd half through defender Anna Larkins to win the game 4-0.

  Colney Heath Ladies had a tough first season in the ERWFL Premier Division last season finishing bottom albeit with 3 withdrawals No wins to there name then either a much better start this time around as they begin their season having been involved in FA Women’s Cup action the weekend before with a solid home win over relegated Haringey Borough Women. Goals from Sophie Joseph and Nicola Hollick seeing Colney Heath leading 2-0 at half-time. Hollick with her 2nd of the game making it 3-0 at the start of the 2nd half. Lucy Hancock getting in on the goals scoring action to bring up 4-0. Sophie Joseph sending home a free-kick for her 2nd of the game to make it 5-0. Charlotte Grogan firing in a 30 yarder to see Colney Heath win the game 6-0 and that following on from a 7-0 win in the cup the weekend before.

   Harlow Town Ladies won their first ever game in the ERWFL Premier Division 5-2 at home on the opening day of the season. Were at home too this Bank Holiday Sunday taking on Bedford Ladies who had drawn their opening game of the season. The visitors having the better of the 1st half were leading 2-0 at the break with Catalina Costas scoring both of Bedford’s goals. Harlow though were to mount a comeback 2nd half to take a share of the points Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe both on target with a goal each to see the game finish 2-2.

ERWFL Division One

  3 games too played in ERWFL Division One on Bank Holiday Sunday, 2 sides winning their opening two matches to lead the table. Stevenage Ladies Reserves followed an opening day 5-0 away win against Bishops Stortford Ladies with a win at home against Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies who themselves had also won on the opening day. With just the bare 11 available Stevenage had to work hard for the 3 points, goals from Katherine Calvert and Daniela Martucci the difference as Stevenage ran out 2-0 winners.

  Also starting their season with 2 successive victories are Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on the road again followed their 2-1 win against newly promoted Hatfield Peverel Ladies with another 3 points at Bishops Stortford Ladies. Kealy Farley on target with the opening goal to put Bowers & Pitsea ahead in the 12th minute. Bishops Stortford were back on level term 10 minutes later Rebekah Coppen with their goal. Back came Bowers & Pitsea retaking the lead with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Abbie Simmonds finding the back of the net. An own goal coming late in the half to put the visitors 3-1 up. Ebony Moore with a goal midway through the 2nd half to secure a 4-1 victory for Bowers & Pitsea. 

  Lawford Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL started the season with a heavy defeat to fellow promoted side St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day of the season. Bounced back this Sunday to claim their 1st victory. At home the Essex side were taking on Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies. Goals at either end of the 1st half from Jasmine Cox and Daisy Canny seeing Lawford leading 2-0 at half-time. Histon eventually scoring what would prove to be consolation goal through Katie Webb.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 19/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 19th Aug

The new season of ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) began this weekend with 25 sides competing across two divisions this campaign. 12 sides in the Premier Division with 13 in Division One, plenty of football to come over the next few months with plenty of interesting encounters lined up. 

ERWFL Premier Division

Acle United Women are the early leaders in the Premier Division with a crushing home defeat on the opening day taking on Haringey Borough Women, relegated from the FAWPL as it was last season. A difficult season for Haringey Borough loosing alot of players as they entered the higher level a baptism of fire for a young squad then and still recovering from that suffered a heavy defeat on their return to the ERWFL against one of the sides likely to be pushing for the title. Grace Birchall getting Acle into an early lead inside 5 minutes. Captain Megan Todd going on to score a brace to put Acle 3-0 up before Birchall added her 2nd of the game and Rhianne Brister was on target to give the Norfolk side a 5-0 half-time lead. More goals followed 2nd half Todd and Birchall rounding off their hat-tricks, Laura Holden and Brister with her 2nd of the match making it 9-0 in the final 10 minutes.

  Is a Norfolk one, two in the ERWFL Premier Division after the opening weekend with newly promoted Wymondham Town Ladies recording a big win away from home. A trip to Bedfordshire to play a team I had been led to believe had folded over the summer, AFC Dunstable Ladies, they haven’t however and pleased to see, far from the start they would have liked against a side more than one person has told me look strong in pre-season. Top scorer last season, Laura Nicholls wasted no time opening her account this time around grabbing a 1st half hat-trick with a goal too for Betty Fretwell and new signing Carolyn Sarafian on her debut making it 5. Dunstable did pull a goal back but only a consolation as Wymondham added further goals 2nd half Nicholls with her 4th of the game, Jorja Patterson and Chelsea Clarke also getting an opening day goal in an 8-1.

Cambridge City Ladies, were runners-up last season in their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division. Started this season with a trip to a new local rival as Peterborough Northern Star Ladies join the ERWFL having previously played for the East Midland’s regional section. Cambridge City getting off to a great start with a 5-2 win. Laura Mills, Carla Penny and Shannon Shaw on her debut all scoring along with substitute Grace Stanley who netted a brace.

Harlow Town Ladies are the other new entrants to the Premier Division with a 3rd successive promotion having finished runners-up in ERWFL Division One South last season. Began life at the higher level at home taking on fellow Essex side Brentwood Town Ladies. Georgia Holdaway scoring a brace for the visitors it wasn’t enough for Brentwood as they suffered an opening day loss Harlow Town running out 5-2 winners. Olivia Steele scoring an opening day hat-trick with Lily Bruno and Rubie Smith also on target.

AFC Sudbury Ladies were hosting Bedford Ladies in the final game played in the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday. An injury time goal for the home side denying Bedford all 3 points after Mayo Sidhu had given them the lead. Ceri Harris  sending the ball home for AFC Sudbury in stoppage time to secure a point for the Suffolk side.

Colney Heath Ladies start to the ERWFL Premier Division delayed as they were instead in action in the FA Women’s Cup, Preliminary Round hosting Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies. A hat-trick for new signing Rianne Townsend-Brown on her debut, along with a goal for fellow debutant Charlene Moreton plus a brace from last season’s top scorer Nicola Hollicks and one from Kelly Hancock seeing Colney Heath progress easily with a 7-0 win.

ERWFL Division One

One single Division One this season consisting of 13 teams 4 new sides joining, St Ives Town Ladies and Newmarket Town Ladies plus Hatfield Peverel Ladies and Lawford Ladies from Essex. Another new name in the ERWFL being Bowers & Pitsea Ladies formerly Little Thurrock Dynamos.

  It was a game from ERWFL Division One where Women’s Football East began it’s season taking in a match between two of the newly promoted sides, St Ives Town Ladies hosting Lawford Ladies. St Ives getting off to a fantastic starting breaking away to score inside the opening minute, Tierney Coulson sending in a strike from outside the box. St Ives started well finding room to exploit as Lawford struggled to get to grips with their young energetic forwards, captain Amy Seymour-Shove running clear on the left curling home a shot from the top corner of the box to make it 2-0. Last season’s top scorer Georgia Stancombe also opened her account seeing her initial shot saved by Lawford keeper Jamie Newstead the ball came back to her to lift the ball over her and in or 3-0. A rampant St Ives adding a 4th goal with newly introduced substitutes Caitlin Jarman and Lauren Gibson combining for the latter to score with her first touch on her St Ives debut after joining from Cambridge United WFC in the summer.

 

An opening day hat-trick for St Ives Town Lades, Tierney Coulson

 

4-0 at half-time, Lawford needed to reorganise or risk being over run 2nd half came out with a more solid shape 2nd half and pulled a goal back through last season’s top scorer Jasmine Cox as she caused trouble for the St Ives defence form a long ball forwards. St Ives had the energy and goal advantage to push on and Coulson reintroduced to the game 2nd half found herself on the end of two final balls to wrap up an opening day hat-trick. The 6-1 win sending St Ives to the top of the table. 

Last season’s ERWFL Division One South winners, Stevenage Ladies Reserves chose not to take promotion to the Premier Division, remaining in Division One they began the new campaign away to Bishops Stortford Ladies who had a difficult debut season at regional level, will be hoping for better results this time around. Stevenage Ladies Reserves got off to a great start against them however with a 5-0 win on Sunday. Daniela Martucci getting herself hat-trick in the match with Emily Schofield and Sherrie Evans both getting a goal a piece. Stevenage Ladies Reserves are 2nd. 

Weren’t the only side to score 5 goals in their opening match of the season with 2 more hitting 5 at home to collect all 3 points. Hutton Ladies enjoyed a successful campaign last time out collecting two trophies, including retaining the ERWFL Plate. Started this season’s league campaign at home to Histon Ladies. The visitors from Cambridgeshire taking the early lead against the Essex side Jordanne Sillitoe resigning for Histon scoring after just 2 minutes. Hutton went on to have full control of the match taking a 4-1 lead into the dressing room at half-time. Vicky Kinsman making her debut for Hutton scoring all of the goals went on to add a 5th to her name 2nd half, Hutton winning 5-2, Sillitoe scoring again for Histon.

Also scoring 5 goals on the opening day to clinch victory were last season’s ERWFL Division One North runners-up, King Lynn Town Ladies, were hosting Newmarket Town Ladies, newly promoted to the ERWFL after finishing runners-up in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. Natalie Wright, Deva Rawlings and Chloe Witt were making their debuts for King’s Lynn. Newmarket Town have lost a few players in the summer but were blessed with a large pool of talent to call upon previously and although leaner have a solid side. It was King’s Lynn who would take the lead Oksana Imanalijeva making it 1-0. Tiffany Forshaw opened her account to make it 2-0 to the hosts. Brooke Wickens getting a goal back for Newmarket. King’s Lynn with the 2-1 advantage at the break.

  Chloe Witt bagged herself a goal on her debut for King’s Lynn to make it 3-1. The score going into a frantic last 10 minutes, Newmarket puling it back to 3-2 through Sarah O’Rourke. Rochelle Woods and Imanalijeva with her 2nd of the game putting King’s Lynn into a 5-2 lead. Molly Agnew scoring a 3rd goal for Newmarket not with two minutes left on the clock not enough as King’s Lynn took the 3 points with a 5-3 result.

  Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies ended the last campaign in magnificent form 5 straight wins in the league and have carried that momentum on into the new season winning away from home on the opening day of the season. Were taking on Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Charley Handley scoring Hoddesdon’s first goal of the season to put the visitors 1-0 up at the break. Kristina O’Connell making the score 2-0 to Hoddesdon 10 minutes into the 2nd half a 3rd soon followed scored by Natasha Crick. Ipswich Wanderers getting a consolation goal deep into injury time new signing Stacey Teager from AFC Sudbury Ladies scoring on her debut.

  An away win for Bowers & Pitsea Ladies completes the opening days results in the ERWFL. Were taking on fellow Essex side Hatfield Peverel Ladies newly promoted to the league as Essex Women’s Premier Division Champions. Goals from new signing Sabrina Campbell and Abbie Simmonds giving Bowers & Pitsea a 2-0 lead looked comfortable for the result Hatfield Peverel grabbing a late goal through Lauren Crozier to make the final score 2-1. 

The Round-Up – ERWFL 06/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 6th May

ERWFL Premier Division

It’s all over in the ERWFL Premier Division the final league games (or game) played this Sunday). Billericay Town Ladies are the Premier Division Champions finishing top of the table as rivals Acle United Ladies lost in midweek the Cambridge City Ladies who secure runners up spot in their 1st season in the league. Promotion to the newly named National League for Billericay Town Ladies are a couple of runners up finishes in recent seasons.

  The action in midweek determining the course of the title race Billericay Town had lost their final game away to Royston Town Ladies the week before giving hope to Acle United who had a six point gap to close with 2 games left to play. A busy spell their 3rd game in 6 days saw them travelling to Huntingdon Town FC to play 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who knew a win themselves would secure runners-up spot in their 1st season in the Premier Division. A tight first half the dead lock broken late on with Acle United captain Megan Todd putting the visitors into a 1-0 lead. 

  The drama unfolded in the final 10 minutes the game turned on it’s head Bronte Rapley levelling the scores for Cambridge City, a clash in midfield leading to 3 sending’s off for Acle united, Ciara Flatt show a red card for the 2nd time in 2 matches, following her to the dressing room were Amber Rowland with a 2nd yellow and Kate Pasque also shown a straight red. To compound it the 8 players of Acle United conceded late on Ellie Cullum netting the winner for Cambridge City Ladies that sees them finish just a point behind Champions Billericay Town Ladies.

 Congratulations to Billericay Town Ladies on becoming ERWFL Premier Division Champion’s and to Cambridge City Ladies on finishing 2nd.

  Acle United licking their wounds have to regroup and get ready for one last game this season the ERWFL League Cup Final on Sunday 13th May at The County Ground Letchworth. Up against AFC Dunstable Ladies the two were scheduled to meet in their final league game of the season at Acle United this Sunday, AFC Dunstable unable to field a team the points going to Acle United.

 In the last league game played in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, Royston Town Ladies could have clinched a top four finish had they secured a win away to Brentwood Town Ladies.  The hosts took the lead in the match, Sammy Tinsley levelling it up at 1-1 for Royston Town before half-time. Brentwood getting the better of the 2nd half scoring 3 more goals, Becky Shephard getting on the scoresheet for Royston Tow they fell to a 4-2 defeat. A good run of results at the end of the season however build on that next season and they will be challenging at the top of the table. A win to end the season for Brentwood Town, Leah Cowan making her return from injury scoring another goal. Georgia Holdaway, Kirstie Jackson and Chloe Wilkinson also on the scoresheet.

ERWFL Division One North

One more game left to play in ERWFL Division One North everything settled, King’s Lynn Town Ladies finishing runners-up in their debut season in the ERWFL away to 3rd placed Histon Ladies. A single goal seeing King’s Lynn Town end the season with a victory. Georgia Reardon the player to find the back of the net at the Glassworld Stadium.

ERWFL Division One South

Almost over in the ERWFL Division One South too one more game between Hertford Town Ladies & Hutton Ladies to come on the 20th May. This weekend saw a pair of double headers played. New League Champion’s Stevenage Ladies Reserves hosting 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. Stevenage winning one game by a single goal Daniela Martucci scoring the winning goal. Martucci netting a double in the 2nd match with Emily Schofield and Mary Lisle also on target in a 4-1 win.

 Charlotte Stephens scoring for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies who were playing their last ever game under that name this Sunday. Fear not however as they aren’t going anywhere as from next season they will be known as Bowers & Pitsea Ladies having set up a good relationship with the club and using their ground for their home matches this past season. 

  In the other double header 4th placed Hutton Ladies were hosting bottom side Bishops Stortford. Hutton Ladies winning both games 4-0 to claim all 6 points.

  Hutton Ladies are in Final action too next Sunday in the ERWFL Plate Final defending the trophy they won last season up against Stevenage Ladies Reserves who are looking for a league & cup double. Again at The County Ground Letchworth an 11am kick off for this one.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 29/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 29th April

ERWFL Premier Division 

The title race is back on in the ERWFL Premier Division. It looked all over in the league after Acle United Ladies lost away to Royston Town Ladies last Sunday the defeat meaning that a positive result for leaders Billericay Town Ladies in their final game of the season would secure them the title. The too were away to Royston Town Ladies this Sunday. Gemma Croucher getting onto the ball inside the box and sending it into the back of the net to score the winning goal Royston Town ending the season in good form winning the 3 points. They play their final game of the season away to Brentwood Town Ladies and a win there will see them finish in the top 4.

Acle United Ladies were also in action this Sunday playing less tan 48 hours after narrowly losing out in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final. A long trip to Hertfordshire to play bottom side Colney Heath Ladies. The sides goalless at the break the deadlock broken with 20 minutes left Laura Holden getting the goal to put 3rd placed Acle United into the lead Colney Heath had chances to score, 3 minutes from time Acle United secured the 3 points from the penalty spot Amber Rowland sending the ball into the back of the net. With Billericay Town played out Acle United have 2 games left to play little time to recover as they make the trip to Huntingdon Town FC on Wednesday to take on 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies who playing their final game of the season a keen to hold onto their position. Anything but a win for Acle and Billericay Town will be Champions. A tough 1st season in the Premier Division comes to an end for Colney Heath have played well just not picked up the points and with 3 sides withdrawing from the league in the season it’s hard to judge were they might have finished had all those sides remained.

ERWFL Division One North

 One game in ERWFL Division One this Sunday, League Champion’s Wymondham Town Ladies were on a high coming into their match away to Histon Ladies on Sunday meeting at the Glassworld Stadium for the 2nd successive Sunday, less than 48 hours earlier Wymondham Town had beat Acle United 3-2 to win the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time! County Cup’s belong in the County Round-Up however so you’ll just have to wait for a few more word to find out how they did it.

For now it was the final game of their season away to Histon a late winner securing the 3 points last time out Wymondham Town were looking to end the season unbeaten. Had a knack of scoring early didn’t happen last time out against Histon. This time Hannah Waters slotted the ball home inside the opening 2 minutes to give the visitors the lead. It didn’t last long however as Histon came back to level just 3 minutes later, Abigail Davies getting the goal. Histon then went on to take the lead Hannah Gordon scoring from a free-kick in the 15th minute. Wymondham coming back to level 10 minutes later Kayleigh Holloway scoring direct from a corner. 2-2 at half-time. Wymondham retook the lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half Waters with her 2nd of the game to see her onto 24 goals for the season. Laura Nicholls is way out in front in the scoring charts for Wymondham Town however and she scored in the 66th minute to put Wymondham Town 4-2 ahead with her 42nd goal of the campaign. Histon pulling it back to 3-4 deep into stoppage time Angelica Farchechi with her first goal for the side. Wymondham completing a league and cup double taking 52 out of a possible 54 points along the way. Have had a remarkable season.

ERWFL Division One South

Two games played in ERWFL Division One South on Sunday. 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies at home for the last time this season taking on Bishops Stortford Ladies. Goals from Sophie Dowman, Courtney Fraser, Eloise Ives, Ebony Moore and Taylor Adcock in a 5-0 result securing a 2nd successive win after a poor run of results for Little Thurrock Dynamos. 6 points back on 2nd placed Harlow Town Ladies who have played out have a 25+ goal difference over Little Thurrock Dynamos who have a double header away to league Champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves to come.

  Hoddesdon Town Owls are up to 4th spot in the ERWFL Division South table. Playing their final game of the season, probably don’t want it to end as they recorded a 5th straight win to end on a high. Away to Hertford Town Ladies, Kristina O’Connell scoring a hat-trick with a goal each for captain Natasha Crick and Hannah Kelly in a 5-0 win. Will give Hoddesdon a huge amount of confidence to bring into the new season.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 22/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 22nd April

ERWFL Premier Division

Acle United Ladies travelled to Hertfordshire on Sunday to take on 5th placed Royston Town Ladies. The Norfolk side in the position in the table still in contention for the ERWFL Premier Division title needing a maximum points from their remaining 4 matches to ensure they can catch Billericay Town Ladies at the top of the table. Made a great start to the game captain Megan Todd firing Acle United into the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. Royston had been on a good run had suffered defeat to 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies in midweek got themselves back on level terms in the 24th minute. Acle United resumed the lead 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick Amber Rowland putting it past the keeper to make it 2-1.

 A narrow lead for Acle United at half-time, Royston turned it completely around in the 2nd half equalising within 2 minutes of the restart, Goals on 60 and 65 minutes putting them into a 4-2 lead, Gemma Croucher on target with a goal with Becky Shephard scoring a hat-trick. Acle United couldn’t find a response losing the game their title challenge taking a blow.

  One other game from the ERWFL Premier Division on Sunday, bottom side Colney Heath Ladies travelling to Creasey park to play AFC Dunstable Ladies. A tough season for Colney Heath in their Premier Division debut fighting hard just haven’t picked up the results suffering another narrow defeat at the weekend a single goal winning it for AFC Dunstable, Danielle Carty scoring the goal.

ERWFL Division One North

A handful of games left in the ERWFL Division One North all involving Histon Ladies. The 3rd placed side hosting the newly crowned league champions Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday. The visitors looking to end the season unbeaten have dropped points in just one game in the league all season. Wymondham Town couldn’t get the early goal that has so often been a feature for them this season setting them up for the rest of the game. Histon proving a tough nut to crack. Wymondham Town kept at it however grabbing a winning goal with just a minute left on the clock striker Hannah Waters turning the ball home for her 22nd goal of the season. 

  That result is good news for 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies as it means they have secured runners-up spot in the league.

  Cup Final action for both Wymondham Town Ladies and Acle United Ladies this coming Friday as they meet in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a 7:30pm kick-off at the FDC. Women’s Football East will be there to cover the game.

ERWFL Division One South

 Stevenage Ladies Reserves were celebrating in mid-week as they won 3-2 against 2nd placed Harlow Town Ladies to clinch the ERWFL Division One South title. Have led the table from start to finish a long 100% winning run at the start of the season seeing them pull away and for a long while defending a flawless defensive record. A great achievement and a possible double to come with the ERWFL Plate Final to come.

 Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies Reserves on their title success.

   Back to earth with a bump on Sunday however for Stevenage away to 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies as they suffered defeat for just the 2nd time this season. A below par performance Little Thurrock Dynamos taking full advantage to end their poor run that had seen them lose 4 of their last 5 matches. A 2-0 win seeing the run brought to an end 3 matches left at home to Bishops Stortford Ladies and two more with Stevenage Ladies Reserves 9 points back on 2nd placed Harlow Town who have placed out their fixtures.

  Harlow Town ended their debut league campaign in the ERWFL Division One South away to Hutton Ladies. Braces for both Lily Bruno and Tayla Handscombe along with a goal for Frances Gamble seeing them end with a 5-1 victory on 37 points 9 clear of Little Thurrock Dynamos could still potentially be caught but have a goal difference of 30 over their fellow Essex side and that might well prove to be an extra point advantage.

  4 straight wins for Hoddesdon Town Ladies as they end their season in style, playing their penultimate league game away to Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. A first half goal for Charley Handley. Captain Natasha Crick scoring 5 minutes into the 2nd half Rosy Wodhams bagging herself a brace with Fay Holder also getting on the scoresheet in a 5-1 win. Brogan McHale scoring the goal for Bishops Stortford. 

Match Report – Royston Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Wednesday 18th April

 A game under the lights this Wednesday evening a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, and finally an opportunity to see Royston Town Ladies in action as they take on 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies.

 Royston Town Ladies are playing their 2nd season in the ERWFL Premier Division and after a poor start to their campaign losing their 1st 3 league matches have been unbeaten since. Recruited several players from the lower leagues over the summer with plenty of goals between them, Becky Shephard from Hertford Town Ladies and Francesca Smithers playing for Watton Ladies previously amongst their new signings. A high number of postponements have seen Royston Town hovering at the lower end of the Premier Division, but staying in touch with the sides above them and getting the results have climbed up to 5th in the table.

 Cambridge City Ladies are newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division winning the Division One title at the 1st attempt last season. A couple of losses early in the season Cambridge City then went of a long winning run that propelled them up the table challenging for top spot. Bella Simmons leading the line the Premier Division’s leading goal scorer with 24 goals so far this season. The ERWFL Premier Division originally starting with 12 sides is now down to just 9 following three withdrawals and adjustments as a result.

  With two games left to play Cambridge City can’t catch leaders Billericay Town Ladies but can’t finish any lower than 4th going into the game with both 4th placed Acle United Ladies and Royston Town Ladies with games in hand still potentially able to beat their current points tally if either can win enough points from their remaining games. A win over Royston Town Ladies tonight for Cambridge City ensures a top 3 finish with a game against Acle United Ladies under the lights to end their season.

The two sides met just 3 days ago in the reverse fixture on Sunday a good start from Royston seeing them take a 2-0 lead. Cambridge pulling it back to 2-1 Royston again opening up a 2 goal lead. 3-1 up Cambridge came back to score twice and see the sides share the points in a 3-3 draw.

 Have been trying to get to a game at Royston Town Ladies, Garden Walk Ground for a while now this season but the weather has been against everyone the pitch water logged due to the excessive rainfall we’ve suffered this winter. Today at last the weather has taken a turn for the better bright, sunny and hot! 24 degrees this afternoon and still warm as kick-off approached. The entrance to the ground can be a little tricky to spot tucked away behind a residential street and especially if you’re not looking on the right side of the road but got there in the end parking the car beside the pitch. A large clubhouse and bar at the top of the ground leading out onto the pitch a wide playing surface. Good weather at last it’s welcome to stay.

Royston Town Ladies starting XI – Emma D’Costa, Emma Slater, Rebekah Fisk, Erin Davies, Amy Cooper (C), Paige Rolfe, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Angharad Chambers, Sammy Tinsley, Gemma Croucher & Becky Shephard. Subs – Allyson Santini, Andrea Wright, Samantha Edgar, Francesca Smithers, & Megan Evers. 

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Lucy Hurst, Lauren Tomlinson, Amy Reed, Becca Fay (C), Anna Kanz, Stacey Fullicks, Laura Mills, Charlotte Gillies, Carla Penny & Bella Simmons. Subs – Sarah Mosley & Yasmin Crow.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Cambridge in their all sky blue away kit to kick-off the 1st half with Royston in their home colours white shirts with a black band across the shoulders and sleeves, black shorts and white socks. The ball won by Royston straight away in the middle the ball played out to right to Sammy Tinsley put long down the line for the attackers to chase, Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru can let it run out for a goal kick. 

The home side attack up the right wing Angharad Chambers on the ball the cross swept into the area, Cambridge captain rising highest to head the ball clear for the visitors. Anna Kanz picking up the ball in midfield moves it forwards fro Cambridge, has runners left and right with Carla Penny and Charlotte Gillies, goes right looking for Gillies, Rebekah Fisk coming to close her down win the ball putting it out for the throw in. Royston regain possession captain Amy Cooper playing the ball on for Tinsley breaking away on the left side over the halfway line looks to play the ball through the middle for Becky Shephard, Fay cuts it out. 

A ball cleared up the pitch left side isn’t going to quite run out of play as Cambridge try to see it out Tinsley after it hustles the defence the ball played back to Mhunduru her attempted clearance at the near post falls straight to Royston midfielder Paris Coldicott-Smith 20 yards out left of the D ties to open her body up curl a shot into the opposite corner the ball flying wide of the post. Gillies with a run on the right takes the ball on down to the byline cutting the cross back into the middle finding a Cambridge head the ball is sent in towards goal from the top of the area, drops onto the roof of the net. 

Cambridge turn play around quickly Fay breaking up a Royston attack the ball on through the middle into Stacey Fullicks she sends it forwards her low ball looking to put Bella Simmons through on goal, Emma Slater at right back defending for Royston. Calls for handball off Royston’s Cooper from Cambridge as she intercepts Gillies knock forwards through the centre looking to release Simmons, play waved on. Both sides looking to use the full width of the pitch, Slater with another good defensive tackle to stop Carla Penny putting a cross in from the left. Mhunduru with a good claim inside her box as Tinsley with a central run looks to close her down inside the box. 

15 minutes payed neither side has settled into the game a passes not quite finding there mark. Paige Rolfe gets hod of the ball in the middle plays the pass into Chambers to her right her ball back inside for Shephard she is fouled five yards in from of the centre circle. A free-kick to Royston an ambitious effort from Shephard as she takes on the shot plenty of pace on the ball is a couple of yards wide of the post. Coldicott-Stevens almost gets Tinsley through in behind to attack the ball top of the area with a low diagonal pass, Mhunduru reading the threat comes rushing to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at the attackers feet. 

  Cambridge get numbers forwards possession around the Royston box, the ball rolled into Simmons central 20 yards out isn’t closed down her scooped shot is straight at Royston goalkeeper, Emma D’Costa she parries it down safely and claims. Rolfe breaking with the ball through the centre looks to release Gemma Croucher ahead of her on the right channel just a little too much on the pass. Erin Davies with good defending in the centre to stop Simmons running clear into the area. Fullicks comes across well then to the right to tackle Tinsley on half way and prevent the home side hitting them on the counter. 

Croucher receiving the ball into her feet as she moves to the left 30 yards out looks to drive at the Cambridge defence running inside beats two before being stopped at the top of the area by Lauren Tomlinson. Penny attacking down the left wing plays the cross into Simmons inside the box left of goal controls with her chest looking to bring the ball down and turn and shoot Cooper is on her the central defender blocking the ball deflecting off her for the corner. 

 GOAL! As the opening half hour passes the dead lock is broken Cambridge opening the scoring. From a throw in on the left the ball carried back into the middle then hooks back over the top with Simmons running clear left side into the box, D’Costa coming to close her down Simmons stays on her feet well keeping her composure to evade the challenge and rounding the keeper sends her shot into the goal beyond 0-1. 

Lucy Hurst gets in between the Royston attackers as Shephard and Croucher look to combine on the left side the full back nipping in between them to win the ball. Fullicks with a challenge in the centre plays the ball out wide to Gillies right side knocking the ball on Fisk has the legs to get onto it first and clear for the throw. Chambers plays the ball from the right inside to Croucher her pass picking out Shephard breaking clear through the centre is stopped by the offside flag. Tinsley over on the right tries to force her way into the box Fay getting across her can shield the ball for Mhunduru to gather. 

  Rolfe tracking back into the area is well positioned to head the ball away as Simmons holding it up well in the left corner flights a cross into the area. A free-kick to Cambridge wide on the left Fay to play the ball in near post D’Costa is unchallenged as she calls and claims the ball. Royston with some promising combination play as they attack Coldicott-Stevens on for Tinsley, the Cambridge defence intercepting the final ball yet again as Shephard makes the central run Tomlinson in to deny her with the challenge. 

Kanz stops Royston breaking clear after the ball is won in the area from a Cambridge corner kick on the left. A triple change for Royston late in the first half, Rolfe, Tinsley and Chambers coming off to be replaced by, Samantha Edgar, Francesca Smithers and Megan Evers. The home side press on the left Shephard up the line for Croucher, Hurst winning the ball back for Cambridge. Smithers with the ball from a right attacking position into Edgar central, Amy Reed tackling for Cambridge. 

 Into stoppage time in the 1st half Royston on the attack a defensive mix-up central sees Croucher pounce on the ball in space on the left her early cross fired into the area Smithers running in Mhunduru saving from close range as Smithers strikes the ball, parried out to the right Evers onto it for Royston drives a 25 yard shot back in towards goal Mhunduru back pedalling to her near post can palm the ball down safely. Cambridge with one last attack first half Gillies down the right her cross in out behind at the near post the corner conceding played high in towards the top of the area Simmons with the shot puts the ball wide of the top corner.

Half-time Royston Town Ladies 0-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  A narrow lead for Cambridge at the break Simmons with her 25th goal of the season putting the visitors in front. Neither side has properly settled into the game the chances fairly even Cambridge doing well cutting out Royston’s final ball. Fullicks disrupting their build up play in the middle. 

  A change for both sides at half-time with Sarah Mosley on at right back for Hurst for Cambridge. Andrea Wright on for Croucher for Royston as they get the 2nd half underway. Evers with a nice forwards pass through the centre looking for Shephard, Kanz tracking back makes the tackle winning the ball. Royston press the ball high up the pitch at the start of the 2nd period winning it back left side passed inside to Shephard her shot from the corner of the area flashes wide of the far post across the Cambridge goal. 

   Play continues to be turned around quickly Mhunduru gathering at one end has a good kick on her the ball up field Simmons racing clear D’Costa sliding in saves at her feet. A good start to the 2nd half by Royston upping the tempo aiming to press the ball higher up the pitch. Edgar on for Smithers right, Fay cutting out her diagonal ball into the area. A short corner from Cambridge on the left the ball drilled low into the area, cut out and cleared by Davies. 

  Royston make more changes a double substitution Shephard and Copper the players rested, On come Allyson Santini with Tinsley returning to the pitch. Tinsley with a volley from outside the box her effort straight at Mhunduru the keeper holding onto the dipping ball. A purposeful break through the centre for Cambridge Fullicks using her strength to win possession and drive forwards plays the pass on for Simmons ahead of her the Royston defence stretched for a moment, Slater does well getting close to challenge and get the ball top of the area, Simmons down afterwards having gone down with cramp.

Painful for Simmons she hobbles off the pitch, as Cambridge decide to make a change, Yasmin Crow coming on to join Penny in attack. Royston bring the ball on Wright out to Tinsley on the left, Fullicks coming across to challenge breaks up another attack. Tinsley on the ball comes away from the challenge this time and lays the ball into Smithers her back to goal 25 yards out, shielding it with her body shifts to her left creating room for a strike slicing the ball it angles away from goal as it flies wide of the post. The same players combine again as Royston attack the roles reversed this time Smithers central with a clever turn before sending the through ball into the area left side for Tinsley to close down, Mhunduru coming out quickly slides in to save at the attacker feet gets clattered as she takes out Mosley in the process. Play stopped as she receives treatment but is alright to continue. 

Tinsley latches onto a loose kick out from Mhunduru and taking the ball left then right creating room for a shot strikes the ball in towards goal. Arrowing in on target, Mhunduru back on her line by then is right behind the rising ball can palm it down and gather. Into the final 15 minutes. Royston are frustrated as decisions don’t seem to be going their way. Cambridge defending well Fullicks covering alt of ground across the middle breaking up attacks. 

Evers with a long pass forwards Fay winning the header for Cambridge the home side regain possession Coldicott-Stevens fouled by Kanz as she bursts forwards through the middle. More changes for Royston with Chambers and Croucher coming back on. Reed tracks back to tackle Tinsley as she makes a run through the centre looking to get on the end of a cross fired in from the left. A free-kick wide right inside the Royston half for Cambridge Fay to play the ball in Penny attacking it near post the ball off a defender for the corner. Wright heading the ball out of the area for Royston falling to Fay outside the area her low shot driven in blocked. Davies and Shephard return to the pitch for Royston.

GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes of the game and Cambridge double their advantage. Attacking down the right players breaking forwards through the middle Royston drawn across as Gillies fires the ball in towards the top of the area Crow knocks it on for Penny in the clear behind her, time to pick her spot connects with the ball well lashing it past D’Costa into the goal to make it 0-2. 

A blow for Royston the home side press forwards Smithers moving right with the ball flashes a cross along the top of the area, Tinsley the target, Reed sticking a leg out to intercept. A free-kick for Royston 35 yards out central, Shephard on it not afraid to have a shot goes for goal again frustration showing as she fires the ball up over the crossbar. The game moves into added time. Kanz riding a challenge goes on through the middle laying the ball out to Gillies wide right, Slater defending against her. A late late free-kick to Royston left of the area the ball fired in towards the near post Edgar rising Mhunduru comes to punch the ball away from her cleared only as far as Tinsley she strikes the ball back in is straight at the keeper once again Mhunduru saving as the final whistle blows.

Full time Royston Town Ladies 0-2 Cambridge City Ladies

  Cambridge win their penultimate league game of the season a top 3 finish assured, have to wait a while before their last league match against Acle United on the 2nd of May. Depending on how results for Acle United go between now and then will determine where Cambridge can finish. Have a County Cup Final to play before then up against rivals Cambridge United WFC on Thursday 10th May. 

   The game passed really quickly a good tempo to it throughout neither side really getting into their full stride, the rhythm broken up with the ball pressed quickly little time allowed on it especially through the middle. Chance wise it was fairly even, Cambridge with the clearer opportunities in front of goal capitalising with 2 goals. Royston frustrated with their performance especially after the game on Sunday. Still have 4 games left to play next up at home to Acle United, Cambridge wouldn’t mind them getting a positive result there.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cambridge City Ladies midfielder Stacey Fullicks. A commanding presence in the centre of the park covering alot of ground closing the ball down, strength on the ball and some useful forward runs to create openings for attacking options.

 Good to get a game in under the lights and to get to see Royston in action at last. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance tonight as always it’s appreciated.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 15/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th April

ERWFL Premier Division

 Billericay Town Ladies lead the ERWFL Premier Division by 7 points following a 4-1 win over AFC Dunstable Ladies in their penultimate league game of the season this Sunday. Courtney Clare opening the scoring for the host side Hayley Piggott from the penalty spot doubling the lead further goals from Hope Strauss and Paris Smith seeing Billericay Town go on to win the match 4-1. Danielle Carty with the goal for AFC Dunstable. 

 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies were at home on Sunday taking on Royston Town Ladies who had climbed up to 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division following a 2-1 home win over AFC Sudbury Ladies in midweek. Becky Shephard scoring to put Royston into a 1-0 half-time lead. Shepard netted again in the 2nd half to double the advantage. Cambridge City came back into it with a goal from Stacey Fullicks to make it 2-1. Sammy Tinsley restoring Royston’s 2 goal lead. Goals from Bella Simmons and Charlotte Gillies seeing the points shared as Cambridge City came back again to draw the game 3-3.

   Bedford Ladies were awarded a home win in their final league game of the season leaving them in 3rd spot level on points with Cambridge City Ladies. The fixture against AFC Sudbury Ladies whose league campaign also drew to a close on Sunday.

   In 4th position Acle United Ladies again find themselves in the position of having games in hand on the leaders and the potential points available to chase them down a maximum haul seeing them finish level with Billericay assuming neither drop any. A double header this Sunday for Acle United at The Flegg FDC taking on Brentwood Town Ladies.  

In the 1st match the 1st half was a fairly even affair the dead lock broken late on a goal from Laura Holden seeing Acle United lead 1-0. A totally different story in the 2nd half Acle United starting well Megan Todd doubling the lead 3 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick goals from Lauren Bullard and Holden with her 2nd of the match putting Acle United 4-0. Brentwood responded with 2 quickfire goals from Nicole Manning and Emma Mackie to get it back to 4-2 A goal for new signing Rosie Filby on her debut put Acle United into a 5-2 lead with late goals from Rhianne Brister and another from Todd making the final score 7-2.

 A dominant 2nd game from Acle United saw them take maximum points away from both games. Megan Todd to target with another goal putting Acle United into a 1-0 half-time lead. Goals from Laura Holden then Kirstie kindred making the score 3-0 then Todd struck late on for her 2nd of the game to see Acle United win 4-0.

ERWFL League Plate

 Fresh from their Essex Women’s Trophy success Hutton Ladies were looking to reach a 2nd final of the season this Sunday. The current holders of the ERWFL League Plate hosting Cambridgeshire side Histon Ladies. The away side starting well getting into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 20 minutes. Kirsty Smith with the strike to make it 1-0 a free-kick sent in by Hannah Gordon 2 minutes later making it 2-0. Hutton pulled it back to 2-1 with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. Histon scoring late on with Gordon on target for her 2nd goal of the game to lead 3-1 at half-time. 

   Hutton came back into the match in the 2nd half scoring twice to get it back all square at 3-3. The semi-final heading into extra-time. The home side taking the lead for the 1st time in the game midway through the 1st period of extra play followed it up with another quick goal to lead 5-3 and held on to win the game and reach their 2nd successive League Plate Final.  Hutton’s goals scored by Hayley Critchell, Patrizia Leo, Laura Allen, Katie Lowen and Lucy Critchell. Hutton will be the underdogs against ERWFL Division One South leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves… but then they were also the underdogs last season and beat the odds.

ERWFL Division One North

 In ERWFL Division One North, Wymondham Town Ladies had secured the league title last weekend away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies with 3 games left to play. Unbeaten dropping points in just the one game to date the Norfolk side travelled to Cambridge United WFC Reserves this Sunday who were playing their last match of the season. The visitors found themselves trailing at the break as Cambridge United scored from a free-kick late in the 1st half, Liz Pamplin sending the ball in from the edge of the area. Wymondham Town started the 2nd half strongly and within 8 minutes of kick-off were back on level terms, striker Hannah Waters scoring to make it 1-1. 2 minutes later Wymondham Town were leading Waters striking again to make it 2-1. Alice Ladbrooke on hand to put the ball home in the 63rd minute after Waters sees her shot saved. 3-1 the winning score two matches left for Wymondham both away to Histon Ladies.

In the other match played in ERWFL Division One North this Sunday, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies playing their last match of the season were hosting 2nd placed King’s Lynn Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points for the visitors Olivia Baker the scorer for King’s Lynn, have one match to play against 3rd placed Histon Ladies have an 8 point lead over the Cambridgeshire side that game scheduled for the 6th May, King’s Lynn could well secure the runners-up spot before then if Histon can’t end Wymondham Town unbeaten record. A promising start to the season for Ipswich Wanderers Ladies picking up some good results dropping away toward the end of the season will be looking to recruit new faces over the close season.

ERWFL Division One South

 Harlow Town Ladies looking odds on now to at the least clinch runner’s up spot in ERWFL Division One South as they moved 9 points clear of 3rd placed Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies with a home victory against them on Sunday. A single goal scored by Lily Bruno enough to seal the victory. Moves Harlow to within 2 points of leaders Stevenage Ladies Reserves who they host on Wednesday. Have played 3 games more however. Results have been against Little Thurrock in the run in as they lose for the 4th time in 5 league matches 4 left to play 3 against Stevenage Ladies Reserves.

One of those losses in midweek away to Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Stephanie Iaonnou scoring the late winner. A busy week for Hoddesdon Town with 3 games in 6 days. Women’s Football East at their game on Sunday at home to Hertford Town Ladies. Danny Barley their new manager in charge for the 1st time. A brilliant start for Hoddesdon Town as Sian Owens struck the ball inside the D inside the opening 30 seconds to find the back of the net and make it 1-0. Hertford Town came back into the game well competing for the ball and defending well against Hoddesdon Town causing some frustration amongst the home side.

Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies, Kristina O’Connell

 1-0 the lead at the break Hertford Town felt confident they could get it back all square, Hoddesdon Town making changes during the interval. A close 2nd half the game end to end at times with the quality in the final 3rd Hertford pushing for a leveller conceded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out with 12 minutes left, Kristina O’Connell within shooting range struck the ball well sending it over the keeper and in to double the lead. Hertford Town responded straight away getting up the other end Olivia Worsfold pressuring the defence pouncing on the loose ball and turning it in from the angle for her 1st goal of the season. Not enough ultimately as Hoddesdon Town held on for the 2-1 win. The match report featuring in the previous post.

  Back in action just 24 hours later last evening Hoddesdon were hosting Bishops Stortford Ladies and ended the night celebrating 3 straight wins. A successful spell ending with a 3-0 victory. Rosy Wodhams with a goal along with a brace for Charley Handley.