Category Archives: FA Women’s Cup

Match Report – Riverside Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup Preliminary Round

Cup action this Sunday on Women’s Football East, from the Preliminary Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup and an opportunity to see two sides I haven’t seen play in a while as Peterborough based side, Riverside Ladies take on Bungay Town Ladies from Suffolk.

The Women’s FA Cup seeing more entries than ever as the game continues to grow across the country, an extra Preliminary Round already played there are 98 ties taking place this Sunday. Plenty of intriguing match ups too hard to settle on one always throws up some interesting ties.

Has been a long time indeed since I last saw Riverside Ladies play getting on for 4 years I think. The club enjoying a rapid rise seeing them moving up to the East Midlands regional set-up and out of Women’s Football East’s coverage (can only do so much). Peterborough a hotbed for women’s football with several talented sides in the area, Riverside saw players leaving sometimes poached. Struggling dropped back into the Cambridgeshire Championship a rebuilding process, winning promotion back the the Premiership once again finished bottom as the team was hit once again, now rebuilding again as they prepare for another season in the Premiership the league strengthened now up to 13 sides will be a competitive league. Riverside have a strong youth set-up with U18s ready to step up to the senior side and U15 & U14 that bode well for future development. This Riverside’s first game of the season.

Bungay Town Ladies know the feeling of having their side raided for talent have often found themselves having to rebuild themselves. Playing in Norfolk Division One did the double just two season’s ago, last season proving more difficult with the squad suffering losses. Didn’t get to see them play last season much to my disappointment. Jody Wells now assisting manager Graham Purling have assembled a decent squad as they prepare for the new season in Norfolk, like the Cambridgeshire Premiership, Division One seeing an increase in size to 11 as new sides enter the league. Good results in pre-season 5 wins from 5 including a 2-1 win away to Northamptonshire side Corby Town Ladies in the extra Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup.

The venue for today the Queens Park Pavilion Playing Fields, in Yaxley south of Peterborough itself. A large side featuring two full sized and several youth sized grass patches. Plenty of parking the changing room block before the playing area itself. The surface dry offering plenty of width. Nowhere near as hot as last weekend temperatures down to 20 degrees a fair bit of cloud around some dark, warm when the sun could break through a breeze blowing, pleasant.

Riverside Ladies starting XI – Maxine Wren, Amelia Roberts, Abigail Baker, Elizabeth Walker, Tia Vacca (C), Abigail Baker, Jess Hill, Rachel Burbridge, Gabija Pavlova, Ines Monteiro & Kerry Camwell. Subs – Ella Gaston & Jodie Skells.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Erin Galer, Leah Shephard, Charlotte Power (C), Katie Walker, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Shannon Dade, Nicola Hazell, Leanne Smith & Imogen McGregor. Subs – Teodora Ilie, Samantha Penman, Tracey Livingstone & Lindsey Adams.

Two sides playing in today’s tie who are used to roll on roll off substitutes, not so in the Women’s FA Cup with only 3 substitutes allowed in regular play. Riverside starting with the bare 11 have one substitute not available for kick-off another injured and only to be risked in necessary. Bungay able to name 4 substitutes the visitors have the kick-off first half wearing and all away kit with white trim. Riverside playing on purple coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The hosts quick to charge the ball down Ines Monteiro charging it down in the centre taking the ball on through the middle stopped at the top of the area as Bungay’s centrebacks close the door. Bungay then caught offside trying to break with Riverside playing a high line.

Leanne Smith getting control of the ball in the centre of the park for Bungay spreads play out to Nicola Hazell breaking into space on the left wing, taking the ball on up the line is tackled by Abigail Baker the ball out for a throw in as she attempts to cut inside. A long throw put in towards the edge of the area knocked down latched onto by Imogen McGregor her snap shot left of the D dragged wide of the near post. Rachel Burbridge puts the ball on over the top for Riverside, Monteiro looking to peel away in behind the full back just a little too early flagged offside.

Rachel Burbridge winning the ball for Riverside

Bungay quick to turn play around as Hazell picks up possession on the left provides the ball for Smith this time coming on through the middle put on for McGregor racing into the box, Maxine Wren able to get hold of it first keeping goal for Riverside. Bungay are looking lively early on as they push on through the middle, Selina Rowland on for Smith up to McGregor top of the area looks to play in Shannon Dade getting forwards on the right her shot taking a deflection seeing a corner awarded. The ball in deep touched on safely into Wren’s gloves she looks to set up an attack Monteiro after ball fed into the left channel, Erin Galer defending for Bungay, the counter attack on played up to Dade right she drives forwards before unleashing a shot, Wren down safely gathering.

GOAL! Play compacted at times in the centre of the pitch this allows Bungay to spring away in attack the pass through for Dade she is away taking it in right of goal 25 yards out lets fly with a shot similar to her effort moments ago only this time she puts the ball wide of the keeper into the bottom corner 0-1. 7 minutes played.

An early lead for Bungay the hosts look for an immediate response, a good run forwards from full back Amelia Roberts gets her in behind to cross inside the area wrong footing the defence she looks to square the ball into the six yard box, too close to the goalkeeper as Joanne Pipe across to her near post claims the ball. Riverside continue to play a risky high line in defence catching Bungay offside almost turn it to their advantage as defender Elizabeth from just over halfway plays a inviting high ball in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence not dealing with it on the bounce Monteiro looks to be in the bounce her undoing too however as she can’t get her foot over the ball for a clean strike.

Amelia Roberts on the attack for Riverside Ladies

Charnelle Riggall back playing again after being out for a long spell with the dreaded ACL in the middle today for Bungay puts a fantastic ball on for Hazell to chase puts a shot in across goal that is cleared by Riverside’s captain Tia Vacca. Bungay continue to press getting joy on both flanks Dade flashing another strike across the face of goal.

GOAL! Bungay double their advantage in 15 minutes winning a corner on the right, the delivery too high for the keeper to claim near post dropping into a congested 6 yard box several players go for it the ball stabbed home, Leanne Smith I think with the final touch 0-2.

Riverside attack left Gabija Pavlova with great ball control taking the ball on lacks support as she is closed down. Bungay are winning the battle in midfield Riggall and Rowland with Smith prepared to bomb on, McGregor played tries to beat the keeper with a lobbed shot from 30 yards out the effort falling wide. Wren doing well for Riverside in the next Bungay attack coming out towards the top of her area with a good punch on the ball to deny McGregor a chance as Dade crosses from the right. Wren with more heroics in goal to deny Hazell a goal as she cuts inside from the left to have a strike inside the area Riverside’s keeper saving with her legs.

Charnelle Riggall playing the ball for Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay getting in behind as Riverside are caught up the pitch playing a good line at times catching their opponents offside on three or four occasions, Bungay are able to come on at will however McGregor providing some good runs in attack, Hazell and Dade left and right ready to go. McGregor attempting to lob the keeper once more sees another effort fall wide of the mark. Smith gets forwards into an attacking position as Hazell holds onto possession left side looking to get inside to shoot, Smith taking on the shot as the ball rolls lose a powerful shot has Wren diving the ball narrowly wide of her right post.

GOAL! Smith sees Bungay into a 3 nil lead, the ball won somewhat painfully by Rowland in the middle of the park is put on into the path of Smith breaking forwards right she sends her shot wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-3. 25 minutes played.

Monteiro chases down a ball put into the right channel cutting in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence converge closed down she lays it off to Kerry Camwell a yard away, she hits it hard, Bungay captain Charlotte Power turning to block. The ball not clear out left side a shot comes in from distance wide of the post. On the counter Bungay look a constant threat Smith through the middle, McGregor ahead of head, the latter away in attack is forced wide of goal by Vacca still manages to squeeze a shot in on the angle rising taken down well by Wren.

GOAL! Bungay are creating the majority of the chances and as Power brings the ball out from the ball unchallenged they add a 4th the pass on for McGregor in attack the drives on with it forced out wide again nevertheless the cross finds its way unopposed across the six yard box and Smith is there unmarked to bring up her hat-trick from close range 0-4.

GOAL! Moments later it 5, Bungay with no effort easily turning defence into attack burst forwards the ball fed on to McGregor the young striker having come close with a number of chances gets her goal, moving right of goal, her shot taking a deflection inside the area off the defender attempting to block, sending it beyond the keeper into the back of the net. 0-5.

Katie Walker defends at the back for Bungay following a ball headed on from Camwell that has Monteiro interested as she breaks into the area the defender getting the ball back to Pipe in goal. Riggall plays the ball up to Hazell left side she sends an inviting ball in across the face of goal McGregor can’t get a touch far post, Dade in behind does her shot in saved well be Wren moving across her goal.

GOAL! Bungay are on top no doubt about it as a 6th goal is recorded, McGregor running clear in behind no-one goes with her has time to way up her options, pick a spot Wren exposed by her defence can do little about it as the ball is placed wide of her and into the back of the goal from the top of the area 0-6.

What follows is brutal (look away now).

GOAL! In quick succession Bungay add not 1, but 3 goals to run rampant at half-time. Smith scoring her 4th of the match as she gets on to support McGregor in attack the strike making a nuisance of herself on the ball not challenged as she takes the ball out to the left, cuts it back into Smith top of the box she sends a looping shot up over the keeper to score 0-7.

Leanne Smith amongst the goals for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st half

GOAL! Smith nets for a 5th time moments later Riverside losing their discipline totally not tracking her as she runs in behind with ease left of goal six yards out able to come back in across goal and pick her spot to slot home 0-8.

GOAL! Rowland gets in on the goal scoring for Bungay as they hammer home an already insurmountable advantage. Catching the defence static the midfielder is allowed to go on a natural goalscorer she gives the keeper no chance as she smashes the ball past her to score 0-9.

Pipe forced into a late save at the close of the first half as Jess Hill from 25 yards out drives a low strike in towards goal.

Half-time Riverside Ladies 0-9 Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay in complete control a flurry of late goal making the task before Riverside impossible 9-0 down at half-time. The away side have been in control from start to finish getting players forwards at will the advantage in having played 6 games more than Riverside showing. The hosts shell shocked letting the scoreline get out of control a difficult 2nd half looms, what can be said. Got to go back to square on start all over again and try to build some positives.

Riverside to kick-off the 2nd half. Bungay with a triple change, with Teo Ilie, Samantha Penman and Tracey Livingstone coming on for Riggall, Dade and Smith. Pavlova has come into a more central defensive midfield position for Riverside as they get the ball rolling. McGregor looks to get away in attack on the right, Vacca does well keeping with her to force her to attempt the cross in towards the top of the area then steps up well to leave her offside as the ball is returned.

GOAL! Far from the start to the 2nd half Riverside would have wanted as they concede early, Livingstone looking to get away left inside the area winning a corner. Is a fantastic ball played in towards the top of the area by Bungay with Rowland rising unopposed left of the D, she plants her header across goal into the far corner for her 2nd of the game 0-10.

Bungay Town Ladies, Selina Rowland

GOAL! This game can be brutal at times an early goal 2nd half for Bungay quickly becomes 2 as they score an 11th. The ball fed out to the right sees Samantha Penman newly arrived to the action away to take the ball on into the area closing in on the six yard box ways up her options spots Livingstone running in far post squares the ball, no one with her Livingstone scores with a simple tap in 0-11.

Riverside down to 10 as Camwell receives treatment. Vacca with some fantastic defending to stop Livingstone top of the area as the cross is swung in from the right. Camwell able to return. A quieter spell, much needed Riverside have been under the cosh but have had fleeting moments, they look like a side right at the start of pre-season the individual skill is visible but the team play needs alot of work. Hazell gets hold of the ball on the left whips a shot in towards goal for Bungay isn’t far over.

GOAL! Bungay add to their scoreline and this goal is started and finished by Rowland to bring up her hat-trick albeit via an fortunate take from a misplaced goalkick, falling straight to the midfielder 30 yards out on the right she sends it on down the line for Penman ahead of her down the line Penman crosses the ball well, into the top of the area and who should be there but none other than Rowland, doesn’t get a clean connect on the ball but that works to her favours as the ball runs wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-12.

Glimpses of what they can do from Riverside, Pavlova in the middle breaking the attack up much better, Hill on the ball out to Roberts getting forwards on the right sending a great cross in near post Camwell getting in front of her defender with a great turn and hit firing over. Riverside are ready to make a change Walker coming off, as Ella Gaston enters the field.

Riverside Ladies, Gabija Pavlova

Bungay getting forwards a corner won on the left the delivery into the six yard box a shot blocked a pointblank range as Livingstone shoots inside the six yard box. Deflected out to Penman right she fires a ball back across the face of goal McGregor flinging herself forwards can’t get a touch. The ball still in play gather by Hazell on the left wing she fires over frustratingly.

Ella Gaston looking to get forwards for Riverside Ladies

GOAL! Hazell gets her chance however moments later as Bungay are awarded a penalty, no doubt as Penman is tripped inside the box. Hazell placing the ball on the spot, goes for power hitting the ball hard rising is over Wren has no chance 0-13.

Nicola Hazell smashes the ball in from the penalty spot

Wren saving soon after as Livingstone scuffs a shot inside the box having been fed in by Ilie. Head naturally have dropped Riverside finding it tough going, Wren spurring then on they know they have been soundly beaten smiles are good to see, keep going. A corner flung in from the left for Bungay Livingstone with the stooping header far post Wren behind holding onto the ball. Ilie looks to combine with McGregor and Penman on the right, Vacca and Heagren doing well in defence get the ball away for Riverside.

Tia Vacca on the ball for Riverside Ladies

Wren with another save as Rowland moving out to the left plays it through fro Livingstone in the box McGregor close by feeds her the ball, Wren saving at close range going to ground.

GOAL! Brutal for Riverside as they concede another very unfortunate too, a back pass played to Wren she goes to clear inside her area her kick seeing the ball spin straight up into the air. Livingstone closing in alive to it pressure the striker sees the ball on into the back of the net as Wren is hurt colliding with the post 0-14.

Their keeper up but injured Wren is hobbling maintaining good spirits. Hill getting back tracks back well to slide in and deny McGregor as she shoots inside the area the ball out behind for a corner on the right.

GOAL! The goals keep coming for Bungay taken short the cross coming in for McGregor positioned top of the box right side she lashes a shot in towards goal, Wren unsighted by a defender attempting to block in front of her both miss the ball finding its way in 0-15.

Imogen McGregor

Riverside keep battling away are in good spirits despite the scoreline, can do little else might aswell be positive, Wren can hardly move in goal now having taken a knock, Livingstone played in by McGregor, Baker stays with her sliding in to make the tackle the ball loose Hazell latches onto the shot blasting over, it just won’t happen from open play for her today. Penman sending a shot wide across goal in the closing moments.

Full time Riverside Ladies 0-15 Bungay Town Ladies

A brutal scoreline for Riverside as Bungay Town Ladies advance in the Women’s FA Cup. Out performed their opponents but can only beat what’s in front of them. In good form in pre-season and far advanced than Riverside it showed as they cruised to victory and into the hat for the draw for the next round of the competition where they will have their fingers crossed for a home draw for a change having played 8 out of their previous FA Cup matches away from home with long trips to Essex and Northamptonshire amongst those. Played well, moved the ball and looked sharper. Fair play to Riverside kept going did improve 2nd half despite conceding better passages of play, a result to forget no doubt so it doesn’t help that some bloke from Norfolk turned up to write about it. Got to put it to bed move on can see the talent, this result will hit the belief but it’s just one game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Basically I’m going to discount the last hour of the match and focus on the opening 30 minutes. Early on Bungay got on top in midfield Charnelle Riggall and Selina Rowland winning the ball well, the driving runs and forwards passes of Leanne Smith making a huge difference plus 5 goals to her name giving her today’s award.

These reports are hard to write, credit where credits due, Bungay played superbly but they themselves would admit they’d rather win a tight game 2-1. It is what it is however. I know Riverside can play better, they have featured in one of my favourite games on the old Supporting Women’s Football Blog afterall. Wishing both well for the new season ahead and thanks for the team sheets as ever.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 10/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th February

FA Women’s Cup

The weather effecting a large percentage of the women’s football fixtures last weekend with the FA Women’s Cup being no exception with 50% of the fixtures from the 4th Round postponed at the beginning of February, those fixture arranged to be played this Sunday the rain threatening a few but all of the 8 remaining ties were played, the 5th Round already drawn the winners knowing who they would face in the last 16 of the competition. 5 of the 8 ties involving sides who play or have played in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East.

It was a plum away draw in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup for FAWNL Southern Premier Division side, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, a 1-0 away win against Nottingham Forest Ladies of the Northern Premier Division seeing them up against FAWSL side, Liverpool FC Women. Kept the scores level for the first half an hour before a quick fire double from Laura Coombs and Courtney Sweetman-Kirk with her 10th goal of the season saw the FAWSL side take a 2-0 lead.

2-0 up at the break Liverpool were creating chances the lead extended on the hour when centre back Leandra Little headed the ball home for her first Liverpool goal. New signing Jemma Purfield making her debut scoring moments later her left foot strike making it 4-0. Ashley Hodson coming on for Liverpool in the 67th minute making her return after 9 months out injured, marked her return with a goal scoring with 10 minutes left, with Purfield adding a 6th goal for Liverpool in the final 5 minutes to see them safely through to the last 16 with a 6-0 win.

An all Championship tie in the 4th Round saw Lewes FC Women travelling to Dartford FC to play Millwall Lionesses who were without a win so far this season. A close game that got feisty towards the end Lewes pressing. Cards shown amongst them a red for Lewes Amy Taylor sent off in the 84th minute. The game looked to be heading into extra-time a late corner for Millwall the ball on the left played high into the box players forwards amongst them Grace Neville clear on the far side of the area meets the ball on the half volley rifling a shot into the back of the net and sending Millwall through to the 5th Round and an away tie against Liverpool with the clubs first victory of the season.

Cardiff City Ladies from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division were making the long trip up to the North East to take on Championship side Durham FC Women in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup. The welsh side falling behind within the opening 10 minutes as Abby Holmes nodded home at the far post to score her 1st goal for Durham. A chance for Cardiff to level from the penalty spot Kylie Nolan brought down inside the box up up take the spot kick her attempt saved by Durham keeper Megan Borthwick. Nolan recovering to score the equalising goal in the 23rd minute. 1-1 with a couple of minutes remaining in the first half Beth Hepple latching onto a shot after the ball is cleared off the line from a Sarah Wilson effort to see Durham retake the lead.

2-1 at half-time Sarah Robson was introduced to the action by Durham and made a immediate impact getting a goal in the 50th minute to extend the Championship sides lead. Further chances fell the win not made fully secure until the final 10 minutes with Zoe Ness scoring a late brace to see Durham run out 5-1 winners and progress to the last 16 where they will be making a long trip themselves to take on FAWSL side Bristol City WFC.

A late switch of pitches saw the game between Loughborough Foxes Women of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and Sheffield United Women of the FA Women’s Championship go ahead. Jodie Bartle returning to the side for Loughborough after a 3 month injury lay off. A lively start both goalkeepers called into action Alethea Paul firing Sheffield into the lead with 14 minutes played. Sam Tierney then striking the crossbar for the visitors. Amy Burle in goal for Loughborough making some good saves to keep Sheffield’s lead down to a single goal at the break. The Championship side creating chances doubled their advantage within the first 10 minutes of the 2nd half Sami Veatriki scoring to make it 2-0. Sheffield defending their lead to book their place in the last 16 with a trip to Aston Villa Ladies awaiting.

It when all the way to penalties in the game between Charlton Athletic Women and Huddersfield Town Ladies in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. Both sides currently 2nd in their respective leagues, Charlton doing very well in their debut season in the Championship, Huddersfield in the FAWNL Northern Premier Division. Charlton taking an early lead in the match with Kit Graham finding the back of the net in the 6th minute. Charlotte Gurr adding Charlton’s 2nd in the 34th minute. The hosts enjoying the better of the 1st half Lily Agg seeing two goals ruled off for off-side. Charlton further extending their lead midway through the 2nd half with Graham getting on the scoresheet for her 2nd goal of the afternoon.

Charlton 3-0 up with the game closing in of the final 15 minutes, Huddersfield mounted an extraordinary comeback to send the game into extra-time two quick goals setting up a nervous end to the game with Brittany Sanderson making it 3-1, Laura Elford lobbing the keeper moments later for 3-2. The come back complete with 5 minutes left on the clock captain Katie Mallin with the goal to send the game into extra-time. No further goals added the sides heading into a penalty shootout. Huddersfield’s Laura Carter saving Charlton’s 2nd penalty her teammates all with successful spot kicks to win the shootout 5-4 and send them into the last 16 with an away trip to FAWSL’s West Ham United Women.

The 5th Round games being played this coming Sunday 17th February below the draw in full:-

Liverpool FC Women v Millwall Lionesses

Bristol City WFC v Durham FC Women

Reading FC Women v Birmingham City Women

Chelsea Women v Arsenal Women

Manchester United Women v London Bees

West Ham United Women v Huddersfield Town Ladies

Aston Villa Ladies v Sheffield United Women

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Manchester City Women

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 03/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd February

FA Women’s Cup

It was another weekend where the weather tried to take centre stage yet again over half the fixtures across the East and beyond falling by the way side. Snow and frozen pitches the feature. Nevertheless their were some big games played and none more so than in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup. February beginning with the sides from the FAWSL and Championship entering the competition 16 ties across the country six taking place that feature sides currently playing in the leagues on Women’s Football East and those that have progressed to the Championship and FAWSL itself.

The 4th Round action beginning on Saturday with FAWSL leaders Manchester City Women drawn at home to Watford FC Ladies playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Manchester City dominating the chances first half but frustrated Watford going in at half-time the score goalless. The hosts patient kept going getting closer the deadlock eventually broken just past the hour with Nikita Parris putting them into the lead, the England international doubling Manchester’s advantage just 7 minutes later. The win secured in the final five minutes Pauline Bremer finally getting on the scoresheet out for a lengthy period with injury, hit the woodwork and had a goal ruled off for offside in the first half scoring the 3rd goal for Manchester to see them advance.

It was the FA Women’s Cup where the match action on the website came from this weekend a road trip south of the Thames to watch AFC Wimbledon Ladies from FAWNL South East Division One take on FAWSL side Bristol City WFC. Some 35 league places between the sides the biggest gap between sides in the last 16. Wimbledon reaching this stage having previously beaten higher league opponents in the previous two rounds Portsmouth FC Women and Hull City Ladies playing in the Southern and Northern Premier Divisions. Bristol a tough test with the FAWSL now a fully professional league.

A good crowd of 500 in attendance Wimbledon playing at Carshalton Athletic FC on a 3G surface. Bristol getting off to a flyer taking the lead after just 12 seconds! A diagonal ball finding new signing Abi Harrison on the left she ran in behind taking the ball into the box and shooting to score her first goal for the club. The post kissed moments later Wimbledon were on the back foot goalkeeper Edie Kelly carrying an injury pulled off some fantastic save it was all Bristol camped inside their opponents half on 23 minutes the lead was doubled, Poppy Pattinson getting in behind left side a cross put along the face of goal met by Katie Robinson at the far post for 2-0. In midfield Carla Humphrey and Poppy Wilson were playing well for Bristol combined for their 3rd on 36 minutes Wilson beating two players top of the area to get into a scoring position and fire the ball into the back of the net.

Bristol’s Carla Humphrey leaping clear of the tackle

A 3-0 lead for Bristol at half-time their opponents no registering a shot up the other end needed to show more positive intent 2nd half. Did so the game more open Bristol comfortable though defending their lead. Captain Jess Trimnell with a shot from distance wide across goal for the hosts, Bristol seeing Kelly tip s long range shot over her crossbar. Wimbledon drawing the 2nd half 0-0 saw their historic cup run come to an end, Bristol safely negotiating the first hurdle.

It was an all Championship tie in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup a London derby too with Crystal Palace Ladies hosting league leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies. In great form with plenty of attacking options in their squad Tottenham creating opportunities took the lead in the 40th minute with Jessica Naz capitalising on the follow up to score after Rianna Dean’s strike was pushed out by the keeper. The lead doubled deep into first half injury time with full back Ashleigh Neville putting the ball into the back of the net. A 3rd goal coming 10 minutes into the 2nd half with midfielder Coral Haines sending the ball home Tottenham advancing to the 5th Round.

Three goals too for the winning side in the match between West Ham United Women of the FAWSL at home to FAWNL Northern Premier Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The visitors taking an early lead with Natasha Flint capitalising on a mix-up to put Blackburn into the lead in the 14th minute. West Ham drawing the scores level right on the stroke of half-time with Adriana Leon scoring to make it 1-1. That how it remained going into the final 20 minutes, Brianna Visalli striking to put West Ham in front in the 72nd minute. That goal quickly followed by a 2nd of the game for Leon to make the lead more comfortable for West Ham and see them into the draw for the 5th Round.

It was a double header in Crawley with two games from the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, starting off with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC of the FAWSL hosting Manchester United Women for the FA Women’s Championship. A close first half between the sides seeing them drawing 0-0 at the break. The deadlock broken 6 minutes into the 2nd half with Lauren James getting the goal to put the visitors in front. Bright awarded a penalty, Manchester United goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain pulling off a fantastic save to keep the lead intact the tie settled in injury time with James getting her 2nd of the game to put Manchester United through to the 5th Round.

The was followed by Crawley Wasps Ladies versus Arsenal Ladies, 33 places between the sides Crawley Wasps riding high in FAWNL South East Division One with a 100% record Arsenal in the hunt for the title 2nd in the FAWSL. A great crowd of 1500 in attendance. Captain Kim Little firing Arsenal into the lead getting herself in the box to fire a low shot into the back of the net. 16-year-old Ruby Grant one of five debutants starting for Arsenal doubling their lead. 2-0 to the good at half-time. Frankie Gibbs pulling off some great saves to deny Arsenal from going further ahead. Grant getting her 2nd and Arsenals 3rd saw the woodwork deny her hat-trick but a further chance fell her way and see celebrated her 3rd goal wrapping up a 4-0 victory for Arsenal. Like AFC Wimbledon Ladies a great FA Cup run for Crawley Wasps Ladies.

The draw for the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup made yesterday the last 16 know who they will face with several ties postponed taking place this coming Sunday, the 8 ties to be played Sun 17th February are as follows :-

Liverpool FC Women or Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Millwall Lionesses or Lewes FC Women

Bristol City WFC v Durham Women FC or Cardiff City Ladies

Reading FC Women or Keynsham Town Ladies v Yeovil Town Ladies or Birmingham City Women

Chelsea Women v Arsenal Women

Manchester United Women v London Bees

West Ham United Women v Charlton Athletic Women or Huddersfield Town Ladies

Stoke City Ladies or Aston Villa Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women or Sheffield United Women

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Manchester City Women

Match Report – AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Bristol City WFC

Sunday 3rd February

FA Women’s Cup

Longest journey of the season to date this Sunday a road trip south the watch the FA Women’s Cup 4th Round match between AFC Wimbledon Ladies & Bristol City WFC.

35 places and 3 leagues between the sides the biggest gap of all 16 ties in this Sunday’s FA Women’s Cup reaching the 4th Round stage where the big guns from the FAWSL & Championship enter the competition. AFC Wimbledon Ladies one of three FAWNL Division One sides to reach the 4th Round along side South East counter parts and league leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies and Keynsham Town Ladies 2nd in the South West league.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies currently 6th in what is a hotly contested top half battle in South East Division One are relishing & excited for the what they know will be a tough test at home against a side from the top tier of women’s football. Have made history already reaching the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup beating higher league side Hull City Ladies from the FAWNL Northern Premier Division 3-0 away from home. Showing good form in the cup competitions are also through to the last 8 of the FAWNL Cup. This there sixth game in their historic cup run

As Bristol Academy, Bristol City WFC were one of the founding members of the FAWSL and have seen the league undergo many changes in it’s relatively short history. The latest being the top tier of the women’s game going fully professional. Tanya Oxtoby’s side comfortably established in 5th position in the 11 side league. Has been a while since I’ve seen any FAWSL football, the clubs closer to home keeping me busy but have always had a soft spot for Bristol enjoyed many trips down to their Stoke Gifford Stadium home in the past. The standard has increased year on year and an intrigued to see how much it has risen.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies played their home matches at Carshalton Athletic FC. A 3G playing surface soon I guessed it would fair better with the previous few days inclement weather. A good size the stadium tucked away in a residential area. A large terraced stand along one side of the pitch another seated stand opposite a bar and large clubhouse, hot and cold refreshments a tidy layout with a decent sized crowd building. The weather quite good actually bright and sunny after a cold start blue skies.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting XI – Edie Kelly, Rosie Russell, Sian Kylie, Kelly Highman, Hannah Billingham, Becky Mclaren-Johnson, Jess Trimnell (C), Rebecca Sargent, Caroline Bisson, Georgia Heasman & Jenny Nagle. Subs – Megan Kowalski, Lindsey Clarke, Sarah Wentworth, Katie Stanley, Hannah Baptiste & Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins.

Bristol City WFC starting XI – Eartha Cummings, Gemma Evans, Heather Payne, Danique Kerkdijk, Julie Biesmans (C), Poppy Pattinson, Carla Humphrey, Poppy Wilson, Abi Harrison, Katie Robinson & Juliette Kemppi. Subs – Sophie Baggaley, Loren Dykes, Frankie Brown, Lucy Graham, Rosella Ayane & Jess Woodley.

Pre-match handshakes

It’s the visitors Bristol to get the game underway 1st half wearing red shirts and socks with white shorts, Wimbledon it their all blue kit, a bit of eager encroachment seeing the kick-off retaken.

GOAL! The quickest goal of the weekend I suspect and certainly the quickest recorded in a match report on Women’s Football East. Bristol playing the ball out to the right back position the diagonal ball is long probing to the left Abi Harrison, Bristol’s latest signing making her first start picking the ball up into her run as she ghosts in behind into the area shapes to shot sending a low driven shot across the keeper and into the goal beyond, her 1st goal for Bristol, 12 seconds played 0-1.

Bristol City WFC’s Abi Harrison

Certainly not the start you want as the underdogs, a blow so early in the game no time to implement a game plan the visitors able to settle early a goal to the good. Wimbledon look to play the ball long for Caroline Bisson on the right hand side straight from the restart, Poppy Pattinson can see it safely out for Bristol. The visitors quick to counter the ball with Pattinson left side on for Poppy Wilson making a run forwards into the left channel, Kelly Highman getting across her run to see it out of play safely for Wimbledon.

Bristol on the front foot right from the off make ground on the right the cross flashes into the area, Highman gets a boot on it knocks it out to the top of the area comes straight to Wilson she connects with it sweetly the ball clattering off the post right back into Wilson path no time to control can only put the follow up over the bar. Bristol finding room on the flanks pushing Wimbledon back Carla Humphrey with the ball it her moves right before sending a cross into the box, Sian Wylie clears inside her six yard box for Wimbledon the ball picked up by Wilson 20 yards out her shot back in straight at Wimbledon goalkeeper Edie Kelly.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Sian Wylie

Most of the play inside the Wimbledon half, Bristol invited to come on Wilson combining with Humphrey in the middle the pass out to Katie Robinson breaking down the right, her attempt to cut inside stopped by Wimbledon full back Rosie Russell. A melee in the box ends up with goalkeeper Kelly down needing treatment, Humphrey’s cross from the right initially cleared by Highman, falls to Wilson can’t quite getting over the bouncing ball to smash a clean shot in Wimbledon get it away.

Bristol overload the right as they attack the ball squared inside across the top of the area helped on comes to Wilson her low shot driven in low held by Kelly. A rearguard action from Wimbledon early on standing off Bristol inviting pressure the FAWSL team able to let their full backs get forwards, captain Julie Biesmans and Danique Kerkdijk at the back able to pick their passes often the only themselves along with goalkeeper Eartha Cummings in their half. Another ball into the area from the right side, Kelly goes to ground as Juliette Kemppi closes her down the pair come together the keeper manages to hold onto the ball, as Highman gets around to cover behind. Kelly needs treatment but is okay to continue.

Bristol City WFC captain, Julie Biesmans

Bristol will be used to a high tempo game the ball squeezed decision making often forced a different story at the moment players looking up deciding what option to take willing runners left and right, Humphrey coming for the ball moving into gaps Wilson able to push on through the middle, Jenny Nagle leading the line for Wimbledon has little to feed on and is pushed back into her own half much of the time. Billingham jumps well inside the box to get her head on it and clear for Wimbledon as Robinson puts a ball in from the right. Kemppi fouled outside the box right of goal, Biesmans over the free-kick goes for goal her attempt still rising as it goes over.

GOAL! 23 minutes played and Bristol’s dominant start to the game brings them a second goal, Harrison and Pattinson linking up on the left wing Pattinson running in behind with the ball fires a vicious ball across the face of the Wimbledon goal Katie Robinson arriving far post half a yard on her marker to smash the ball into the back of the net and make it 0-2.

Katie Robinson on the attack for Bristol City WFC

Gemma Evans with the ball at the back decides to go on a forwards run cutting inside on halfway laying the pass into Pattinson, her run forwards halted by Wimbledon’s Becky Mclaren-Johnson. A corner for Bristol right side taken short up the line the cross/shot driven in Kelly with an excellent fingertip save to take the ball up over the bar for a 2nd corner. Hannah Billingham heading clear for Wimbledon. Humphrey has the ball at her feet right of goal all of 30 yards out strikes it well her shot whistling wide across goal.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Rebecca Sargent

Bristol’s good start has silenced the crowd but there is a passion clear amongst those gathered and when they see their side getting stuck in they’re ready to will them on, Nagle putting the tackle in on half way to win the ball Rebecca Sargent looking to burst through with it stopped by Evans. Mclaren-Johnson winning the ball back as she is pushed onto her defence.

GOAL! Bristol get a 3rd goal their central midfielders combining Humphrey sending a great diagonal ball on for Wilson making a run towards the top of the box, beats two defenders effortlessly to get herself clear into the box, left of goal sends her shot racing across the keeper to nestle inside the side netting 0-3.

Poppy Wilson driving forwards with the ball for Bristol City WFC

Wimbledon haven’t had much of the ball let alone in their opponents half Georgia Heasman trying to get forwards on the right but as quick as the Bristol full backs are to join the attack their wide players are back to help in defence. Bristol come left Harrison with the cross into the area for Kemppi looks to get turned for a shot Billingham in to close her down. Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell plays the ball on for Nagle, Bisson in close support the crowd willing them on run into traffic the game open for a moment Bristol play it forwards Highman in to win the tackle. The biggest cheer of the day goes up when the referee takes a tumble.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Jenny Nagle

Late into the 1st half a rare attack for Wimbledon Nagle out to Heasman on the left Russell on the overlap gets forwards down the line but Bristol prevent the cross as the referee blows for half-time.

Half-time AFC Wimbledon Ladies 0-3 Bristol City WFC

As easy a first half as Bristol have ever played, have had the majority of the ball and that in the opponents half. Taking such an early lead settled any nerves they might have had have been able to get forwards at will since, rarely threatened in attack, created numerous chances and taking a 3 goal lead into half-time. Wimbledon haven’t had a single shot at goal even created a chance, have defended deep stood off thier opponents, very unusual as they are usually a high pressing in your face side who are at their best on the offensive. The early goal no doubt not in he game plan but will need to do something be more positive in the 2nd half if they wish to get anything out of the tie. A big ask at 3-0 down.

A change at half-time for Bristol, Robinson picking up an injury replaced by Rosella Ayane. Wimbledon with a positive intent straight from the start kicking-off the ball forwards with Heasman, on to Nagle looks to hold it up is tackled. Mclaren-Johnson nipping in to win the ball back, Trimnell too. Give away a free-kick right the ball played in high his claimed well by Kelly. Wylie clearing a Bristol corner. Wimbledon get the ball forwards win a throw right side put into Trimnell who takes the shot on from distance plenty of power behind it Cummings can see it wide of her goal.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies captain Jess Trimnell after Bristol’s Poppy Wilson

Wilson with the ball out to Harrison running on left side her ball into the box picked up by Kemppi right of goal, Highman sliding in to take it away from the attacker before she can get a shot away. A more open game 2nd half Bristol still have more of the ball but Wimbledon quicker to close it down get players in support of Nagle. Mclaren-Johnson very proactive in the middle Sargent looking to get forwards. Bristol come right Heather Payne getting forwards in support of Kemppi the pass back to the full back the cross in towards Humphrey getting into a central position stoops into the header her looped ball on target but caught by Kelly.

Wimbledon make a change Nagle coming off up top to be replaced by Katie Stanley with an hour played. If Wimbledon do manage to get away on either flank the run is short lived Bristol have pace in abundance and put it to good use to recover the ball. Kemppi this time back to tackle and put the ball out for a throw. Stanley is tackled in the final 3rd Bristol counter quickly the ball left the cross in long gathered by Harrison right side looks to tie up Humphrey central connects well her shot arrowing in just swerving away from the top corner.

Bristol’s Carla Humphrey leaping clear of the tackle

Bristol make their 2nd change, Pattinson coming off on comes Scottish international Frankie Brown. Harrison puts the ball on for Wilson central she pushes on, Mclaren-Johnson in to tackle and win the ball well outside the box. Heasman comes off for Wimbledon on in her place Megan Kowalski. Bristol remain strong are still holding a high line getting down the flanks crosses left the right dealt with by the Wimbledon centre-backs. Bristol not afraid to go direct either when the opportunity presents itself breaking up a Wimbledon move outside their box the ball played up into Harrison on half-way controls well turning plays a great pass on for Humphrey breaking on in behind only a good starting position from Kelly denies her a chance as the keeper claims on the top of her area.

Bristol come on the cross low into the area Kemppi right of goal tries to bring it down and turn into the shot Highman sliding in makes the block, the rebound comes to Ayane her shot from outside the box blocked by Wylie as Bristol push bodies forwards. Stanley does well inside the Bristol half to win the ball support from Kowalski in front of the centre circle, her pass long finds Bisson running in clear on the right, Cummings has had little to do but is alert going to ground on the edge of the area to get something on the ball play however is halted by a raised flag.

Less than 10 minutes left a change for both sides, Hannah Baptiste coming on for Wimbledon replacing Trimnell. Jess Woodley on for Bristol replacing Harrison. Kelly with another fine finger tip save turning the ball up over her crossbar as a Bristol shot is driven in from distance. The corner right side a good delivery no one attacking it far post. Wimbledon mount an attack Bisson a threat on the right if she can get forwards a great ball fired into the six yard box Russell furthest forwards tries to get there, Kerkdijk getting in front of her clearing the danger for Bristol.

Bristol City WFC defender, Danique Kerkdijk

Woodley sees the ball into the back of the net for Bristol off a corner on the left, won;t count however as the officials flag is raised. Kelly sees a poor kick out land straight at Kemppi’s feet left of the area she takes a touch to get it out of her feet drags her shot wide of goal.

Wimbledon with a throw right side comes on into the top of the Bristol area finds Kowalski she lays it back to Mclaren-Johnson her ball back in cut out spins to Stanley right of the D, her first time shot is dragged wide of the target. Bristol finish the game strong, mounting an attack the ball into Kemppi tackled by Highman then Billingham slides in to charge a shot down from Wilson.

Full time AFC Wimbledon Ladies 0-3 Bristol City WFC

A goalless 2nd period a much improved performance from Wimbledon, the damage down in the first half, Bristol able to sit off in the 2nd half with a 3 goal lead. Played well dominated without really being tested at the back, weren’t pressed when on the ball, case of choosing the right options and that was made easier by good movement and use of space in front of them. Training full time have the edge when it comes to fitness good on the recovery when needed.

Wimbledon’s fine FA Women’s Cup campaign comes to an end, not how they would have wanted a great achievement getting this far in the competition history made, should make you hungry for more. The early goal certainly playing a part, hold out for the first 10/15 minutes the confidence grows you start to ask questions and with their passionate supporters ready to will them on…

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Time for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Edie Kelly with some fine saves and Becky Mclaren-Johnson two stand out performers for Wimbledon this afternoon. Bristol were dominant for much of the game playing the game inside their opponents half. It’s a straight shoot-out between their central midfielders, Poppy Wilson making some great forwards runs joining the attack and getting in behind when Wimbledon were looking to keep it tight through the middle took her goal well. Carla Humphrey edging it however, finding some great space moving right with a useful range of passing, getting into some great attacking positions unlucky not to score herself is today’s Player of the Match.

Been awhile since I’ve travelled south of the Thames for a game, enjoyed it though even if the trip out of London wasn’t fun, halfway home decamped at a hotel to get the report written tonight. The Draw for the 5th Round to be make live on TV tomorrow evening, several ties postponed this weekend. Nice to see Wimbledon at home at last, a nice venue, a tasty bacon bap and a much needed cup of tea. My thanks for the clubs help with the teams today.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 06/01/19

Sunday 6th January

FA Women’s Cup

Happy New Year to you all! The first edition of The Round-Up for 2019 the action beginning with the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup. 10 ties across the country the competition seeing the sides from both the FAWSL and Championship enter in the 4th Round.

No sides from outside the FAWNL making it to this stage of the competition. 7 of the 10 ties featuring clubs playing in either the Southern Premier or South East Division One.

Coventry United Ladies leading the Southern Premier Division unbeaten so far this season were hosting Crawley Wasps Ladies, the leaders in South East Division One, with an equally impressive start to the season a 100% success rate so far. Two in form sides going head to head it was Coventry who opened the scoring attacking down the right a cross sent into the area put in at the far post by Amber Hughes in the 26th minute. Crawley hitting back with an instant reply Ariana Fleischman up the other end getting the final touch to level the scores. 1-1 at the break. Both sides creating opportunities in the 2nd period Megan Stow seeing an effort strike the woodwork for the visitors just past the hour dug in as Coventry pressed. Into stoppage time with the game heading into extra-time, Crawley found the winning goal, Darcey James heading in a Naomi Cole corner to see Crawley beat their higher league opponents to reach the 4th Round.

Northern Premier Division leaders, Blackburn Rovers Ladies are into the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup although it took a last minute winner to secure their place on the road away to Oxford United Women in the 3rd Round on Sunday. A fast paced 1st half between the two sides looked to be heading into the changing rooms goalless at half-time when deep into injury time Evie Gane tapped the ball home to give the Southern Premier Division side, Oxford the lead. Blackburn came back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half Natasha Flint finding the back of the net, then in the closing minute it was Flint on target worth her 2nd of the match to clinch the victory for Blackburn.

Had planned a trip to Nottingham this Sunday, circumstances against me however as Nottingham Forest Ladies stalwarts of the Northern Premier Division played host to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division in the 3rd Round. A tight contest between the two sides, a single goal the winning margin, scored in the 2nd minute of 1st half stoppage time, Kim Farrow getting one on one with the keeper to put Milton Keynes Dons Ladies into the lead the visitors holding on to win and reach the 4th Round for the 1st time.

It was a long trip up to the North East for Southern Premier Division side Watford Ladies as they took on Middlesborough Women from the Northern Premier Division in the 3rd Round of the Cup. Midfielder Danielle Scanlon with the early goal for the visitors seeing Watford 1-0 up after 7 minutes just 3 minutes later Watford were 2 goals to the good Helen Ward scoring. Both sides attacking chances coming Middlesborough pulling it back to 2-1 on 18 minutes through Emily Scarr. Just two minutes later Watford were back ahead by 2 goals with Ward netting for the 2nd time to make it 3-1. Eleanor Drake on the scoresheet for the hosts to reduce the deficit once again on the half hour. Watford when into the half-time break with their 2 goal cushion restored as Katie O’Leary scored to make it 4-2 in the 39th minute. The visitors having the better of the 2nd half as the home side pushed from a reply, Samantha Hailsworth making it 5-2 on the hour. Into the final 10 minutes and Ward scored twice more to claim 4 for the game and secure a 7-2 win for Watford.

Plenty of goals too between Billericay Town Ladies and Loughborough Foxes Women in the 3rd Round as the Essex side 2nd in South East Division One took on their higher league placed opponents. Billericay taking an early lead in the game Sam Pittuck volleying home in the 5th minute. Loughborough quick with the response levelling the scores within 3 minutes Rebecca Knight scoring to make it 1-1. 3 minutes later Loughborough were in front Rebecca Mcgrother with the goal. Amy Burle with a terrific save to deny Karissa Rodney a goal on the half hour soon after Mcgrother found the back of the net up the other end to put Loughborough 3-1 up. That the score at half-time Billericay started the 2nd half strongly pushing for a goal chances Burle saving once more. The game closing in on the final 20 minute Loughborough further extending their lead, Eva Rogers played through and sending the ball past the keeper to make it 4-1 for the visitors. Zoe Rushen pulling it back to 4-2 with 10 minutes left. Burle busy in the Loughborough goal, Rushen beating her for her 2nd of the game to set up a nervy final five minutes Loughborough holding out to win the game 4-3.

Cardiff City Ladies were hosting Bolton Wanderers Ladies from Northern Division One in the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. An early goal helping settle any nerves the Southern Premier Division side might have Cori Williams heading in from a corner in the 7th minute. Kylie Nolan with the final shot from a break making it 2-0 on 15 minutes. Those goals proving enough with Bolton unable to find a reply, Cardiff progressing.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies, 3rd in South East Division One were on the road in the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday taking on higher league opponents Hull City Ladies from the Northern Premier Division. A goalless 1st half between the sides, it was Wimbledon who enjoyed the better of the 2nd half Katie Stanley putting them a goal up just past the hour mark. Jordan Hoesli-Atkins doubling the visitors lead just 7 minutes later to put Wimbledon 2-0 up and with Hull pushing later on for a goal Georgia Heasman secured victory for Wimbledon scoring their 3rd goal in injury time.

In the other 3 3rd Round ties, Stoke City Ladies won 2-1 away to Derby County Ladies. Huddersfield Town Ladies were 4-1 winners at home to Leeds United Ladies and Keynsham Town Ladies doing well in South West Division One beat Flyde Ladies 2-1 at home.

The FA Women’s Cup 4th Round draw – ties to be played Sun 3rd February

Yeovil Town Ladies v Birmingham City Lades

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Bristol City Women

Crystal Palace Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Millwall Lionesses v Lewes FC Women

Durham Women v Cardiff City Ladies

Everton Ladies v Chelsea Women

Leicester City Women v London Bees

Reading FC Women v Keynsham Town Ladies

Liverpool Women v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Loughborough Foxes Women v Sheffield United Women

Charlton Athletic Women v Huddersfield Town Ladies

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC v Manchester United Women

West Ham United Women v Blackburn Rovers Ladies

Stoke City Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

Manchester City Women v Watford FC Ladies

Crawley Wasps Ladies v Arsenal Women

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 09/12/18

Sunday 9th December

FA Women’s Cup

Two ties from the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup this weekend, both falling foul to the weather last Sunday. Crawley Wasps Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season, a 100% winning record top of FAWNL South East Division One were handed a home tie against higher league opponents Chichester City Ladies, who themselves have enjoyed a brilliant campaign to date amongst the title challengers in the Southern Premier Division.

The game moved to Worthing FC, played on 3G. Crawley’s good form continuing the hosts taking the lead in the 38th, Kemina Webber with the goal heading in from a corner. The advantage quickly doubled with a 2nd goal late in the 1st half again from a corner Darcey James with the header this time powering the ball into the back of the net. Crawley leading 2-0 at half-time. Chichester frustrated couldn’t find a reply in the 2nd half Crawley winning to march on in the FA Women’s Cup and an away trip to Southern Premier Division leaders, Coventry United Ladies to look forwards to in the New Year.

Watford Ladies have an away trip up to the North East in the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup against Northern Premier Division side, Middlesborough Women in the New Year. Progressed with a narrow 1-0 home win to Buckland Athletic Ladies on Sunday. The South West Division One side giving a good account of themselves holding the Southern Premier Division side to a goalless score at half-time. The Watford goal coming with 20 minutes left on the clock, Katie O’Leary finding space inside the box to drive a low shot into the bottom corner.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 02/12/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd December

FA Women’s Cup

December begins with the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup, with the FAWNL Northern & Southern Premier Division sides entering the competition. Nine of those ties featuring sides from the Southern Premier aswell as those reaching this stage from South East Division One, no sides from the Eastern Regional league or below making it this far. Wet weather prior to Sunday’s matches seeing a few games affected across the fixture list including two FA Women’s Cup ties with Crawley Wasps Ladies v Chichester City Ladies & Watford Ladies v Buckland Athletic Ladies called off.

Elsewhere there were a couple of upsets aswell as two further ties needing extra-time to seal the win. AFC Wimbledon Ladies from South East Division One causing an upset as they carried their recent good form into the FA Women’s Cup to knock-out Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Ladies on Sunday. Caroline Bisson scoring direct from a free kick in the 28th minute to see Wimbledon leading 1-0 at half-time. Closing in on the hour and Wimbledon doubled their advantage Bisson with the assist as Georgia Heasman fired the ball home to make it 2-0. Portsmouth unable to find a reply as Wimbledon booked a spot in the 3rd Round.

Also causing a shock in that they knocked out higher league opposition in the FA Women’s Cup were, Keynsham Town Ladies. In great form this season however with a 100% record in the league 8 wins from 8, in South West Division One would have fancied their chances with a home tie in the 2nd Round up against C&K Basildon Ladies, the Essex side struggling for points at the wrong end of the Southern Premier Division. A high scoring game with the sides sharing 11 goals, C&K Basildon on the scoresheet for 3 of them couldn’t keep Keynsham out at the other end as they rattled in 8. Laura Williams with Keynsham’s first in the 16th minute. Kerry Bartlett is way out in front as top scorer for Keynsham with over 30 goals already this season from 14 appearances. Was amongst the goals once again in the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup scoring a 1st half hat-trick. Bartlett adding another on the hour, after Justine Radburn had found the back of the net for Keynsham’s 5th goal. Into the final 15 minutes of the game and Keynsham added two more goals Christina Vega Leandro and Ellis Hillman scoring in quick succession. Keynsham through to the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup with an 8-3 win.

One 2nd Round tie saw an all South East Division One line-up with 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies hosting bottom side Luton Town Ladies. The Essex side finding it tough to break down a young Luton side in the 1st half. 0-0 at the break. It was the visitors who would go on to open the scoring the the 2nd half, 12 minutes played Aurora Ryan charging down the goalkeeper, winning the ball and taking it past her to score. Karen Stephanou making just her 2nd appearance since joining Billericay over the close season from C&K Basildon scoring her first goal just 7 minutes later from inside the box to level the scores. 90 minutes up the sides drawing 1-1 the tie heading into extra-time. Broghan Kelly another new arrival for Billericay in the summer scoring her 1st goal for the 1st team to put the hosts into the lead, a great strike from outside the box. 3 minutes later Jay Blackie played through to run at the Luton goal and send the ball past the keeper to put Billericay 3-1 up and see them make more history in reaching the 3rd Round for the 1st time.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies were at home in the 2nd Round the Southern Premier Division side facing a potential tricky tie up against Southampton Women, riding high in 2nd spot in South West Division One. The hosts settling quickly with an early goal, Leah Littlechild crossing the ball for Leah Cudone to score inside the opening 5 minutes. The same combination with 7 minutes left to play in the 1st half saw Milton Keynes Dons double the lead Littlechild’s cross headed in by Cudone, 2-0 at half-time. The lead made more secure with a little under 20 minutes left Littlechild getting on the scoresheet herself adding a 3rd goal. Littlechild once more having a hand in the 4th goal too as she sent the ball into the box with 4 minutes left for Cudone to score and complete her hat-trick.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Leah Cudone

Oxford United Women, 5th in the Southern Premier Division had to wait to find out who their eventual opponents at home in the 2nd Round were as the 1st Round tie between Cambridge City Ladies & Cambridge United Women was made to be replayed. City winning the 1st game 2-1 after extra-time the FA upheld a complaint by United about the smallness of their pitch sending it into a replay. At United’s Mildenhall Town FC home, the South East Division side winning the game 2-0 to set up the 2nd Round trip to Oxford. Ellie Noble firing Oxford into the lead on the half hour it was quickly 2-0 with captain Lauren Haynes on the scoresheet. Florence Fyfe adding a 3rd goal for Oxford soon after the restart. Oxford making a new signing leading up to this Sunday’s cup tie, Evie Gane rejoining the club after a spell with Aston Villa making her debut with a goal in the 65th minute to seal a 4-0 victory.

Three ties from the 2nd Round played on Sunday featured an all Southern Premier Division line-up. Loughborough Foxes Women were hosting Gillingham Lades in the FA Women’s Cup the two sides having met in Kent a week ago the game ending all square at 2-2. There had to be a winner this time around, however that needed extra-time to be decided with the sides drawing 1-1 after the final whistle. Charlotte Broad having put Loughborough into the lead in the 19th minute. Gillingham getting back on level terms 20 minutes into the 2nd half with Alice Bussey on target. Rebecca Knight winning the game for Loughborough in the extra half hour netting twice in the 1st half of extra play, 3-1 the final score.

Queens Park Rangers Women travelled west to Wales on Sunday to take on Cardiff City Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup, the 2nd Round tie all square at the break with QPR doing well to keep their opponents out. Cardiff eventually getting the break through in the 57th minute Grace Horrell new to the action the substitute making an immediate impact supplying the cross for Cori Williams to score. Cardiff with a strong 2nd half performance quickly found a 2nd goal Nia Rees getting one on one with the keeper to score. Gwennan Davies with a fantastic volleyed goal to make it 3-0 and open her account for Cardiff. Horrell on the scoresheet herself wrapping up a 4-0 win in stoppage time.

Lastly Southern Premier Division leaders, Coventry United Ladies were at home in the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup taking on Plymouth Argyle Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday. Their previous trip one to forget for Plymouth as they were heavily beaten 9-1 in the league. A much closer score this time around. Coventry awarded a penalty, Chenise Austin sending a coolly struck low ball past the keeper to make it 1-0. Helen Bleazard played through to take the ball into the area struck the ball hard to find the back of the net to level the scores in the 17th minute for Plymouth. 1-1 the score at half-time. Coventry creating chances in the 2nd half retaking the lead through Amy Wathan 10 goal in 14 games now as she headed in a near post cross to make it 2-1 and see Coventry’s long unbeaten run continue.

The draw for the 3rd Round of the FA Women’s Cup made on Monday, the ties scheduled for the first Sunday of the New Year, 6th January the winners receiving £1000 are listed below:-

Cardiff City Ladies v Bolton Wanderers Ladies or West Bromich Albion Women

Derby County Ladies v Stoke City Ladies

Huddersfield Town Ladies v Leeds United Ladies

Middlesborough Women v Watford Ladies or Buckland Athletic Ladies

Billericay Town Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women

Hull City Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Coventry United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies or Chichester City Ladies

Nottingham Forest Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Oxford United Women v Blackburn Rovers Ladies

Keynsham Town Ladies v Fylde Ladies

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 11/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th November

FA Women’s Cup

The FA Women’s Cup saw 15 ties drawn for this Sunday, the 1st Round Proper of the competition. An £850 prize for the winners with the FAWNL Premier Division sides set to enter in the next round. 5 of the 1st Round ties featuring sides covered by Women’s Football East. One of those falling foul to the weather, AFC Wimbledon Ladies away to New London Lionesses called off due to a water-logged pitch.

It was action from the FA Women’s Cup too this weekend for Women’s Football East a return to the Trinity College Playing Fields to watch a local derby between Cambridge City Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division hosting rivals Cambridge United WFC competing in the league above, FAWNL South East Division One. Cambridge City Ladies making history already reaching the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup, top of the ERWFL Premier Division hold a 100% winning record going into the game, saw a thrilling game in 2nd Round Qualifying as they came back to beat FAWNL South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC 5-4.

A large crowd in attendance to watch Cambridgeshire’s leading women’s footballing sides go head to head. Certainly had the feel of a local derby, an intriguing watch the sides evenly matched first half ending goalless. A tense start to the 2nd half Cambridge City asserting some pressure substitute Bella Simmons forcing a fantastic save from Cambridge United goalkeeper Savannah Smith. Cambridge United broke with 15 minutes left captain Kelley Blanchflower out to the left wing sending a great cross into the area over Becky Shepherd making a central run, new signing Jade Bell meeting the ball at the far post sending it into the back of the net for her first goal for the club United leading 1-0.

Sarah Mosley getting the ball up field for Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge City left it late against Leyton Orient to win the game, was another late strike to equalise right at the death and force the game into extra-time, Lauren Tomlinson with a long throw into the near post area, the ball not cleared popping out to Bella Simmons to smash the ball into the back of the net and get buried under her team mates in celebration. Into extra-time momentum firmly with Cambridge City, United rattled forced to make a keeper change, unhappy with some refereeing decisions, one of those a contributing factor to City going on to take the lead a well worked move from the throw-in down the line on the left, the cross in central top of the area Laura Mills finding a pocket of space meeting the ball firmly firing it into the goal, City lead 2-1! United couldn’t find a reply, Emma Jenkins coming closest late on seeing her close range attempt cleared of the line from a corner. Cambridge City winning to make it into the 2nd Round draw, where thy have been paired away to FAWNL Southern Premier Division side, Oxford United Women.

Cambridge City Ladies celebrate their late equaliser goalscorer Bella Simmons in under there somewhere

Luton Town Ladies from FAWNL South East Division One were hosting, Kent United Ladies from the London & South East Regional Premier Division in the FA Women’s Cup, 1st Round Proper this Sunday. Like the Cambridge derby, the lower league side holding their opponents to a goalless draw at half-time. Midway through the 2nd half the dead lock was broken the visitors awarded a penalty, Elizabeth Waldie stepping up to score from the spot to put Kent United into the lead. Luton coming back to level with 15 minutes left to play Nicola Henman sending the ball home to make it 1-1. The game heading into extra-time with neither side managing to edge victory it was to be settled on penalties. Luton holding their nerve, Kent United missing theirs Luton make it to the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Cup where they have been drawn away to fellow league side Billericay Town Ladies.

Billericay Town Ladies needing extra-time themselves to progress in the FA Women’s Cup and make history by reaching the 2nd Round of the competition. Were away to fellow South East Division One side, Norwich City Ladies. The hosts getting off to the great start opening the scoring with Chelsea Garrett making it 1-0 with her 10th goal of the season. Ellie Smith doubling Norwich’s lead to see them 2-0 up at half-time. Both sides though reduced to 10 before the half-time whistle. Billericay fought back in the 2nd half getting a goal back then levelling the scores to send the game into the added 30. The visitors down to 9 following a 2nd sending off, nevertheless managed to get their noses in front to lead 3-2. Held on as Norwich to ended the game with 9. A home tie with Luton Town Ladies in the 2nd Round the reward.

No drama for Crawley Wasps Ladies in the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup as the leaders of FAWNL South East Division One maintained their 100% winning start to the season on Sunday at home to London & South East Regional Premier Division side, Queens Park Rangers Girls. Kemina Webber opening the scoring for Crawley Wasps in the 13th minute. Emma Plewa doubling the lead midway through the 1st half to see Crawley 2-0 up at half-time. Plewa adding her 2nd of the game 4 minutes into the 2nd half. Megan Stow with a superb 25 yard strike on the hour making it 4-0 to the hosts, Plewa wrapping up her hat-trick 5 minutes later. Ariana Fleischman scoring with 20 minutes left to see Crawley Wasps win the game 6-0. A home tie in the 2nd Round up against FAWNL Southern Premier Division leaders, Chichester City Ladies.

20 ties pulled out of the bag for the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup, scheduled to be played Sun 2nd December. The full draw listed below:-

Sheffield FC Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies

Long Eaton United Ladies v Hull City Ladies

Leeds United Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Huddersfield Town Ladies v Bradford City Women

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Fylde Ladies

Chester-Le-Street Town Ladies v Stoke City Ladies

Middlesborough Women v Stockport County Ladies

Bolton Wanderers Ladies v West Bromich Albion Women

Guiseley AFC Vixens v Derby County Ladies

Wolverhampton Wanderers Women v Blackburn Rovers Ladies

Keynsham Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

Loughborough Foxes Women v Gillingham Ladies

Billericay Town Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Southampton Women

New London Lionesses or AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Portsmouth FC Women

Oxford United Women v Cambridge City Ladies

Watford Ladies v Buckland Athletic Ladies

Coventry United Ladies v Plymouth Argyle Ladies

Crawley Wasps Ladies v Chichester City Ladies

Cardiff City Ladies v Queens Park Rangers Women

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 11th November

FA Women’s Cup

The 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday afternoon and it’s a local derby for Women’s Football East returning to the Trinity Playing Fields to watch Cambridge City Ladies take on rivals Cambridge United WFC.

A contest between the leading women’s football sides in Cambridgeshire, Cambridge United WFC playing in FAWNL South East Division One whilst Cambridge City Ladies compete just one league below the ERWFL Premier Division.

They were once one at youth level, Cambridge Women forming and going on to rise through the woman’s football pyramid reaching the FAWNL, a merger with Cambridge United seeing them become Cambridge United WFC. Several players have since returned to Cambridge City who themselves are rising through the women’s football pyramid. Local rivals their most recent meeting seeing Cambridge City win the Invitation (County) Cup Final last season to end a spell of dominance from United.

A runners-up finish for Cambridge City Ladies in their debut season playing in the ERWFL Premier Division, are looking to go one better this time around win the title and with it join the FAWNL themselves. Have made a perfect start a 100% in all competitions to date including making history in reaching the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time.

Began their FA Women’s Cup campaign back in the Preliminary Round with a away match against Newmarket Town Ladies a 2-0 seeing them draw at home to Cambridgeshire Premiership side Riverside Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying a crushing 14-0 victory setting up another home tie in 2nd Round Qualifying against higher league opponents, Leyton Orient WFC, Women’s Football East was there to watch the match a thriller 9 goals scored Cambridge City 2-0 down late in the 1st half came back to win an exciting 2nd half 5-4! A much different game in 3rd Round Qualifying an away trip to fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Women. Laura Mills scoring the opening minutes, Cambridge City defending resolutely as Acle pushed hard for an equalising goal, held out and booked thier place in the 1st Round Proper.

Cambridge United WFC are well established in the FAWNL South East Division One, those clubs entering the FA Women’s Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying. A home draw against ERWFL Premier Division side, Harlow Town Ladies, a comfortable 6-0 win over the Essex side setting up a 3rd Round Qualifying tie at home to fellow South East Division One side Stevenage Ladies. 2-0 up Stevenage came back late on to level the scores send the tie into extra-time, for there penalties Cambridge holding their nerve to win the shootout and reach the 1st Round Proper.

Despite alot of overnight rainfall, knew from previous experience the Trinity Playing Fields will hold out well, the pitch looking in good condition, a local derby alot of interest generated a good number arriving. Hot drinks available plus Cambridge City were laying on hot food for the afternoon. A good atmosphere building, sunny but cloudy a shower possible but unlikely.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tee Mhunduru, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Robyn Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sarah Mosley, Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills, Erin Davies & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Bella Simmons, Anna Kanz, Emily Reed & Ceri Flye.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Vicky Neal, Fran Gough, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Amber Cantwell, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Faith Hewitt & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Charlotte Crisp, Zoe Lander, Steph Gale, Mollie Coupar & Liz Pamplin.

A moment of remembrance before the match a poignant day, 100 years since Armistice Day that brought an end to World War I. The team captains laying a wreath on the centre circle before a period of silence… Lest We Forget.

Captains, Kelley Blanchflower & Becca Fay laying a wreath of poppies in Remembrance of Armistice Day

There’s a buzz in the air a crowd eagerly gathered to watch surrounding the pitch, no point using Cambridge from here on in, City v United. It’s City to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played out to the right side, Gabrielle Whitehurst winning the tackle for United the ball out for a throw.

City attack the ball played out to Charlotte Gillies on the right cuts inside before lifting the ball over the United defence with Laura Mills making the run in behind, Savannah Smith in goal for United able to safely gather inside the box. Derby matches can see some robust and usually clumsy tackles early on and this one is not exception, United right back, Emma Jenkins getting clipped across the ankles, Mill sliding in bring down Jade Bell. The latter resulting on a free-kick wide right the ball into the area knocked on towards goal City goalkeeper claiming the ball as it runs into her six yard box.

Charlotte Gillies on the ball for Cambridge City Ladies

City attack on the left Shannon Shaw on for Mills, Jenkins getting in to tackle and put the ball out for a throw. Defending inside their area the ball moved quickly through the middle a United break, captain, Kelley Blanchflower with a powerful run on the ball, central, rides Hannah Bodily’s challenge before running in Robyn Phillips the City centreback regaining possession of the ball inside her box. A good tempo both sides pushing players forwards, United break left, Blanchflower running into the channel as Becky Shephard plays the ball forwards, Mhunduru out to the edge of her area quickly sliding in to claim the ball at the strikers feet.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Emma Jenkins

United’s Amber Cantwell take the ball on through the middle laying it off to Faith Hewitt tries her luck from 30 yards out the ball swinging away from goal. Gillies fouled on the right, a low ball played into the area, Vicky Neal putting in a block before clearing, Jenkins committing the foul 25 yards out City with a chance to shoot. Erin Davies over the ball goes for goal the ball wide past the post takes a clips off a United defender on the way through, the corner given. Mills from the left the delivery long towards the far post, the header sending the ball behind for the goal kick.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell with Cambridge City’s, Erin Davies

Bodily looks to find space on the left as she comes forwards, Jenkins getting support from Bell dealing with the threat. A throw in, you know from the last report that Lauren Tomlinson has a long one in he armoury United winning the ball in the box, Neal clearing. End to end Shaw with Mills in attack for City, United break the counter attack bringing a free-kick 25 yards out left of the D. Jenkins to have a shot on goal, Mhunduru with a fantastic save diving to her right pushes the ball behind for the corner kick.

Bell available on the right for United as they bring the ball forwards, Gillies looking lively on City’s right flank. The niggly free-kicks continue, United showing a little frustration. Good work from Cantwell in the middle winning the ball runs on the pass on for Bell she sends it on for Blanchflower coming over to the right her cross swung into the box cut out by City captain, Becca Fay. Hewitt’s turn to get the ball forwards for United, out to Bell on the right side, a strong tackle from Tomlinson to stop the attack.

Kelley Blanchflower ready to tackle Cambridge City’s Sarah Mosley

A free-kick on halfway for City the ball played long up into the area, Neal backpedalling for United with the header on the six yard line the ball drops straight to the advancing Davies top of the area meets the shot on the volley her effort spins wide of the target. Shaw takes the ball forwards almost succeeds in playing Mills in behind instead the ball is cleared for a throw on the left. Tomlinson goes long the ball inside the area knocked on towards the near post, Smith catches it not put off by Davies attempting to get her head on it.

Mills pulls away to the left wing on the ball down the line swings a cross into the area, Shaw lined up with the far post 12 yards out up to get her head on the ball knocked down, Smith with a slight stumble before getting down to push the ball away for the corner. In towards the near post headed behind for a 2nd corner from 3 yards out. The 2nd corner in from the right, met again near side deeper this time, Phillips sending the header wide.

Shaw with a good run with the ball for City through the middle lays it out to Gillies getting forwards on the left, cuts inside the full back into the area shaping to shoot, Neal racing across gets the challenge in the rob her of the ball. Smith racing out of her area misses the ball as it is played long up to Shaw, the United defence back on the cover clearing the ball long before it can reach the goal. Amy Reed getting forwards from right back for City to the byline with the ball her cross in claimed at the near post by Smith.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Vicky Neal

Fay receives the first yellow card of the game as she slides in to take out Bell right side. The ball from the resulting set-piece fired in towards the far post area, Mhunduru claiming well not put off by the runners coming in. Davies steals in to win the ball off the United defence right side spots Mills making a run in from the left tries to find her, Smith though can intercept the pass. Bell with a jinking run right side looks to get into the box, the City defence converging running her off the ball. Tomlinson breaking away on the left wing for City, Jenkins doing well up against her preventing the cross before defending and winning the goal kick.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

An intriguing 1st 45 minutes, certainly has a derby feel about it two committed sides that have provided the crowd with an enjoyable game so far. Very good numbers in attendance and heard lots of positive comments too. Goalless neither side has gotten on top of the other, spells of pressure short lived, some lively challenges but not malice more niggly, it’s tense out there. An interesting 2nd half to come and extra-time… and penalties should they be required.

Sarah Mosley getting the ball up field for Cambridge City Ladies

It’s United to kick-off the 2nd half the sun low in the sky in Smith’s eyes. City winning the ball in the middle come forwards Davies out to Mills on the left her early cross into the box met central by Shaw knocked down into the ground, Smith right behind it collecting safely. Whitehurst brought down in the middle United awarded the free-kick, Cantwell to put the ball up into the area, Phillips winning the header for City. Phillips defending again as United’s Blanchflower and Shephard look to combine on the right.

Kelley Blanchflower looking to shake of Cambridge City Ladies, Robyn Phillips

Shepherd’s run in behind halted through the middle the flag up against her following good work form Cantwell in the middle of the park. Carrie Bennett defending at left back stopping Gillies as she tries to cut inside her from the wing. City attack left side the ball played on for Shaw to chase, Gough on her shoulder running towards the box, Smith coming to kick the ball clear, smashes it unluckily against Gough, Shaw alert onto the rebound the keeper out of position she shots from the angle, Bennett racing back to clear if needed the ball striking the outside of the post and out of play.

Erin Davies attacking for Cambridge City Ladies

Shephard gets into space on the left given the ball takes it on in behind her cross squared into the box along the top of the six yard box an awkward height for Bell nevertheless does well the get her leg back enough to get a kick in towards goal, lacking pace however Mhunduru diving it able to smother the shot. Gillies doing well on the right wing for City, support from Reed and Davies playing her in, inside the area, the United defence closing her down Gough winning the tackle. City make the first change of the game, off comes Mosley on comes Bella Simmons.

Amy Reed dealing with the ball for Cambridge City Ladies

Gillies with a storming run down the right side plays the cross into the box United defending as Mills tries to turn it in at the near post. City have a corner on the right the ball into the six yard box comes at Simmons quickly can’t direct it in on target. City applying a little pressure now another cross in from the right flashing across the face of goal.

Smith with a fantastic save to deny City the opening goal, pressure around the 18 yards box the cross in central Simmons 10 yards out central shifts the ball well the goal looks there for the taking as she unleashes a shot, Smith throwing herself up to her right full stretch getting behind it gloving the ball away for the corner brilliant. The corner from the right long carries to Mills a the top of the area her strike goalwards charged down the rebound out to the left the cross put back in Smith with the catch.

Bell coming out to the left has support from Hewitt down the line edge of the box, Phillips in with a good tackle to stop Bell turning inside. The ball staying that side United keep it Bell getting another opportunity to send a cross in, very nearly results in an own goal, Tomlinson running a with Blanchflower getting the first touch the ball turned goalwards inside her six yard box, manages to get to it to hook it up over the bar.

Robyn Phillips tackling Cambridge United’s Jade Bell

Hewitt with a strike on goal from outside the area as the ball comes out to her from the corner, takes a deflection sending it wide for another corner. Swung in under the bar Mhunduru up under challenge does enough to get the ball away from danger. Bell wins a throw on the right the ball played on into the area won by Phillips, City counter attack the ball up to Mills, Gough closing her down does well up against her.

GOAL! Closing in on the final 15 minutes and United break the dead lock, good running from Blanchflower coming out to the left side down the line, checks back inside before looking up and lifting a cross into the area the ball over Shepherd leaping in a central position falls to, Bell at the far post meeting it perfectly to volley back in towards goal and score, her 1st goal for United in only her 3rd appearance 0-1.

United make a change straight after the goal, Charlotte Crisp coming on to replace Hewitt in the middle. City press the ball lifted up through the middle headed out to Gillies coming inside from the right onto the ball fires in a shot races wide across the face of goal. Blanchflower with a driving run bursting towards the area tackled by Reed as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. United make a 2nd change, Mollie Coupar on for Shepherd. Decisions continue to frustrate United, players letting their emotions show.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Gabrielle Whitehurst

Gillies still full of running on the right, down the wing sends in and inviting cross low into the six yards box, Smith down low pushes the ball away from danger. City win a free-kick in the corner on the left, the ball high into the six yard box Smith up for it falls awkwardly under challenge, play stopped needs treatment. Jenkins booked for expressing her anger. Shaw gets onto the end of a cross put in from the left plants the ball wide of the near post.

GOAL! Into stoppage time a throw in deep on the left the ball is put into a congested near post area pings around feet before popping loose back to a City shirt, a shot the ball lashed into the back of the net, City equalise, now you try to look for the scorer but she’s currently under the rest of her teammates as they bundle into celebrate 1-1. The goal scored by Bella Simmons.

Cambridge City Ladies celebrate their late equaliser goalscorer Bella Simmons under there somewhere

Smith is struggling in goal for United, Pamplin being readied, carrying injuries herself including a broken finger but that won’t stop her. City pressure late on pushing for a winner, a free-kick on the right Reed to put the ball into the box cleared as the final whistle blows and the game heads into extra-time.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC

Extra-time

Momentum firmly with City right now as the teams gather their composure for the extra period of play the sun low in the sky now. A blow for United, Smith cannot continue, Pamplin comes on in goal. United frustrated with the officials too. City to kick-off the 1st 15 minutes of extra play. Gillies winning the ball right side running on her cross high landing behind the goal. City come again right side this time win a throw inside the United half, Bell actually playing the ball off Tomlinson, the fans all knowing the decision is wrong so too the United bench, manager Kevin Hoover getting a talking to from the referee as he voices his complaints.

GOAL! From the throw-in City go on to score a well worked move Tomlinson’s throw down the line good the cross put in early towards the top of the area Mills making a good move getting herself into space inside the D, unmarked hits the ball well rifling it into the back of the net and moments from going out of the FA Women’s Cup, City are in front 2-1.

Laura Mills strikes in extra-time to put Cambridge City Ladies into the lead

City looking confident have their tails up now the goal restoring energy levels, space opening up Gillies right her cross early long Mills far side turns it goalwards, Pamplin down low easily able to gather. Shaw turning inside with the ball from a throw in foul Cantwell as she tries to get into the area. Coupar winning the ball deep on for Blanchflower left takes on the shot early and attempted lob, doesn’t have enough height on it to worry Mhunduru.

United pressing forwards room in behind as City counter the ball fed into Shaw, both Simmons and Davies into the area, the latter left side slices her shot wide. Gough defends well as Tomlinson forces her way forwards looking to get in behind her, Neal around on the cover to make sure the ball is cleared. Gillies on the right inside for Shaw she is tackled by Gough outside the box the ball coming back for Gillies she strikes it goalwards from 25 yards out lands in the side netting.

A brave save from Mhunduru as Coupar running with the ball left side into the middle sends Bell through into the area left of goal the City keeper rushing in to slide down at her feet the ball deflected away for a corner. The corner is fired in across the face of goal low, Jenkins gets onto it at the far post, a goal line clearance keeping the ball out.

Half-time extra-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-1 Cambridge United WFC

The sun low in the sky now as United kick-off the 2nd period of extra-time 15 minutes to find a reply. The visitors press forwards Blanchflower with Coupar central moving left, Reed defending for City, Crisp gathers the ball on the wing the cross fired in central, Whitehurst stretching for the ball can’t quite reach it.

City break attacking on the right Gillies played on by Mills, Bennett doing well as she stands up against her. Zoe Lander on at right back for United replacing Jenkins. Blanchflower getting hold of the ball takes on 3 City plays manages to get n behind into the area left of goal looks to place the ball high past Mhunduru the City keeper doing well getting a glove to the ball taking it behind for a corner.

City make a change, Davies coming off on comes Emily Reed. Mills is booked for a late challenge on Cantwell on halfway. Neal looks to get in behind from the set-piece the flag up for a foul against her. Mhunduru comes for a free-kick into her six yards box on the right pushing the ball down and away gets hurt as she falls the decision going her way, needs treatment looks in pain but thankfully in up shakily and able to continue. Gillies booked late of for a clip on Neal’s heels. The free-kick defended, City counter the ball with Mills on the right wins a throw. No time left for a United counter, as City win 2-1 to reach the 2nd Round.

Full time extra-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-1 Cambridge United WFC

A thrilling game, intriguing a great watch and a god crowd in attendance to see two committed and passionate sides go head to head in the FA Women’s Cup. It’s a relatively new rivalry but these two sides are destined to meet again plenty of times in the future. The momentum with City now and well deserved conceding late they demonstrated once again their ability to keep going keep pressing and got back on level terms late on. Taking the lead early in the 2nd half to win in extra time and keep their 100% record going. Will be eagerly awaiting the 2nd Round draw when the FAWNL Premier Division sides enter the competitions.

Frustrating in the end for United, taking the lead but couldn’t hold out aggrieved at decisions before falling behind only adding to the case. Played their part in a passionate derby however and the game had the feel of a proper cup tie too and who can predict those?

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

On to this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several contenders in what was a really enjoyable game. Savannah Smith with an outstanding save for United, Kelley Blanchflower making some excellent runs using the channels well too. For City, Charlotte Gillies was lively in the right wing some great runs with the ball, bringing others into play, Shannon Shaw with some good hold up play in attack and Robyn Phillips terrific at centre back. Just ahead of those though is Laura Mills excellent in attack finding space on both flanks and through the middle, driving with the ball and a quality strike to win the game wins today’s award.

A great game attracting plenty of interest a good crowd to witness an intriguing encounter between two of the best woman’s football sides in Cambridgeshire. Perhaps one of those rare games where I actually know who the players are, but it always pays to get those team sheets and my thanks as always to both clubs for helping me out. Wishing Cambridge City Ladies all the best for the 2nd Round draw.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 07/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th October

FA Women’s Cup

The 3rd and final Round of Qualifying for this season’s FA Women’s Cup took place this Sunday with 60 sides vying for a place in the 1st Round Proper of the competition. 8 of those ties involving sides playing in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East.

One ERWFL Premier Division side guaranteed a place in the 1st Round Proper with Acle United Women hosting Cambridge City Ladies, currently 3rd and 2nd in the Division respectfully. Cambridge City getting off to a great start Laura Mills scoring after a couple of minutes play. The visitors looking to add to their lead Acle keeping them out a 1-0 lead at the break. Acle pushing hard for the equalising goal 2nd half Cambridge City saved by the woodwork twice defending their and making history in the progress reaching the 1st Round Proper for the 1st time in their history.

Also from the ERWFL Premier Division, Wymondham Town Ladies who have had some memorable moments in the FA Women’s Cup in recent season’s were hosting Billericay Town Ladies, the Essex side newly promoted to FAWNL South East Division One with a strong start to life at the higher level. It was to this game Women’s Football East headed on Sunday. A good start to the match from Billericay pressing the attack, awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position just outside the box, Zoe Rushen driving the ball into the top corner to give the visitors the lead, the lead doubled through a Jay Blackie header from a corner kick, two warning shots from previous corners no mistake on the 3rd a bullet header at the near post to make it 2-0.

The game turned on it’s head with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half, Billericay goalkeeper, Alex Baker sent off for bringing down, Wymondham’s Laura Nicholls as she ran through towards the top of the area. Nicholls scoring the resulting penalty. With Nicole Farmer taking over in goal Billericay looking to see the half out, Carolyn Sarafian tried her luck from distance on target over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net to see Wymondham bring it back to 2-2.

Billericay Town Ladies captain, Lindsey Morgan with Wymondham’s Kayleigh Holloway

A player advantage for the 2nd half Billericay needing to work hard continued to create openings the game end to end at times Wymondham took the lead with 20 minutes left Hannah Waters pressurising the ball as defender and goalkeeper closed in on one another top of the area the ball loose Waters sending it over both to make it 3-2. Billericay kept going determined to get back into it pressing forwards a ball lifted into the area captain Lindsey Morgan rising highest powering a header back across goal to make it 3-3. Closing in on the final whistle Billericay pounced to score the winning goal Rushen closing in on the keeper as she sets herself to gather the ball the pair coming together, Rushen after the loose ball across the face of goal turning it in the goal standing Billericay winning the game 4-3 to advance.

One other ERWFL side left in the competition Histon Ladies from Division One, drawn away to Lincolnshire side, Nettleham Ladies newly promoted to FAWNL Midlands Division One. Two leagues between the sides Nettleham proving the stronger on the day enjoying a good first half after riding some early pressure from Histon an own goal putting the home side into the lead, goals from Lucy Farrow, Katie Thornley, Abigail Ringrose and a brace from Ellie Thompson-Moulding seeing Nettleham leading 6-0. A 2nd goal for Farrow along with goals for Holly Newman and Holly Wilson seeing Nettleham comfortably through to the 1st Round Proper.

Luton Town Ladies were drawn at home in 3rd Round Qualifying taking on lower league side Oxford City Ladies this Sunday. Luton fielding a young side with 2 debutants took an early lead Aurora Ryan sending the ball past the keeper to score after 5 minutes. Oxford City coming back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half. Nicola Henman quickly restoring Luton’s lead heading home from a corner kick with Erica Bryon making it 3-1 on the half hour, Oxford City reducing the lead to 3-2. Luton leading at the break, 2 late goals in the 88th minute and stoppage time seeing Bryon complete her hat-trick and secure the win for Luton.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies also at home in 3rd Round Qualifying taking on lower league side Godalming Town Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup, Laura Quinn-Low netting twice in the space of 3 minutes late in the 1st half to see Wimbledon leading 2-0 at half-time. Sophie Manzi scoring to make it 3-0 with a little under 20 minutes left Caroline Bisson introduced to the action in the 64th minute making it 4-0 with quarter of an hour left to see Wimbledon safely through to the 1st Round Proper.

Norwich City Ladies were at home in 3rd Round Qualifying taking on fellow FAWNL South East Division One side, Enfield Town Ladies. Both coming into the match on the backs of good home wins in the league in midweek. Enfield beating Stevenage Ladies 4-0. Norwich 3-0 winners over Cambridge United. Norwich having by far the better of the 1st half going into the dressing room holding a 4-0 advantage. Chelsea Garrett celebrating a hat-trick, Laura Thacker scorer of the other Norwich goal. That lead successfully defended 2nd half to see Norwich advance in the FA Women’s Cup.

FAWNL South East Division One leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies were drawn away to Chesham United Ladies playing in South West Division One in 3rd Round Qualifying. Goalless between the pair at half-time Crawley Wasps getting their noses in front mid-way through the 2nd period Emma Plewa coming on in the 64th minute scoring just 3 minutes later. That the score going into the final minute of the match Plewa on target again to put Crawley Wasps 2-0 to the good, Megan Stow’s cross/shot flying into the back of the net in stoppage time sending Crawley Wasps on into the next round of the FA Women’s Cup.

The last of the FA Women’s Cup, 3rd Round Qualifying ties to bring you requiring a penalty shootout to decide the winner. An all FAWNL South East Division One affair at Mildenhall Town FC, Cambridge United Women hosting Stevenage Ladies. Kelley Blanchflower pouncing on a goalkeeping error to steal the ball take it past her and score to put Cambridge into the lead midway through the 1st half. 1-0 up at the break substitute Mollie Coupar with a strong header inside the area to double the advantage to Cambridge with 20 minutes left. Stevenage fighting back pushing forwards to find a reply brought it back to 2-1 then equalised close to the end of the 90 to force the tie into extra-time Amy Makewell and Ellie Searle with the goals. Neither finding the winner in the extra 30 the tie heading to a shootout Cambridge’s first penalty saved, Stevenage scoring their 1st two. The next two were missed however Cambridge converting their winning it on the 5th strike to go through to the next round.

The First Round Proper draw made on Monday 15 ties pulled out of the hat still regionalised somewhat 5 ties will feature sides from the East those selected ties below:-

Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United Women

Norwich City Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

New London Lionesses v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Luton Town Ladies v Kent United Ladies

Crawley Wasps Ladies v Queens Park Rangers Girls

Ties to be played Sunday 11th November a 1pm kick-off with the winners receiving £850.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

Category Archives: FA Women’s Cup

Match Report – Riverside Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup Preliminary Round

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 10/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 10th February

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 03/02/19

The Round-Up

Sunday 3rd February

FA Women’s Cup

Match Report – AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Bristol City WFC

Sunday 3rd February

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 06/01/19

Sunday 6th January

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 09/12/18

Sunday 9th December

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 02/12/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd December

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 11/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th November

FA Women’s Cup

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 11th November

FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 07/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th October

FA Women’s Cup