Category Archives: FA Women’s Cup

Match Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Sunday 7th October

FA Women’s Cup

 The 3rd and final Round of Qualifying for this season’s FA Women’s Cup taking place this Sunday afternoon, 60 teams vying for a place in the 1st Round Proper of the competition, King’s Head Meadow the venue for today’s game, Wymondham Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies.

Both sides celebrating a league title and promotion last season and have hit the ground running at a higher level at the start of this season.

Wymondham Town Ladies promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division after clinching the Division One North title last season a year after joining the regional set-up. Are a side that enjoys the FA Women’s Cup have had a few memorable runs in recent seasons beating higher league placed sides along the way. Mid-table in the Premier Division after 4 matches played.

 Progress in the FA Women’s Cup has been good albeit frustrating as they have only played one competitive match having been awarded the win in both the Preliminary and 1st Round Qualifying after their opponents withdrew. Were at home in 2nd Round Qualifying taking on Essex Women’s Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos. There season already up and running Wymondham put the side playing 2 leagues below to the sword winning the game 17-1 to advance. A tougher test lies ahead today taking on a higher league placed side themselves.

  Billericay Town Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division last season to earn promotion to the FAWNL South East Division One. Coach Kim Coster able to bring in new players some with higher league experience to bolster the squad. As a result a fantastic start to the season, winning their opening 5 league matches keeping pace with fellow promoted side Crawley Wasps Ladies who also recruited well in the summer. A high scoring draw and final defeat on the road to Ipswich Town Women in midweek seeing that record end. Joining the FAWNL, Billericay entered the FA Women’s Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying, drawn at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies at home progressed comfortably with a 9-1 win.

King’s Head Meadow, Wymondham Town Ladies home ground the clubhouse and bar overlooking the pitch. Hot and cold drinks available. The pitch in good condition recovering well following the heatwave earlier in the year. A bright sunny afternoon some cloud cover, music blaring from the home changing room getting the players fired up for this afternoon’s fixture.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Chelsea Clarke, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Carolyn Sarafian, Jorja Patterson, Rebecca Russell, Rachel Cossey (C), Kayleigh Holloway, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters. Subs – Lauren Kett, Mollie O’Callaghan, Olivia Gunn & Alice Ladbrooke.

Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Alex Baker, Esme Lancaster, Lucy Jones, Nicole Farmer, Courtney Lumley, Lindsey Morgan (C), Zoe Rushen, Nancy Butler, Sophie Vale, Jay Blackie & Georgia Box. Subs – Anna Maria Raine, Kelsey Smith & Broghan Kelly.

Pre-match handshakes

It’s Billericay all in blue to take the kick-off 1st half with Wymondham lined up in red shirts with black shorts and socks. The Essex side looking to place the ball left for Nancy Butler to chase the pass too long out of play. Regaining possession in the centre of midfield Billericay, captain Lindsey Morgan bursting forwards, Wymondham’s captain Rachel Cossey with her back into the area defending as the ball is played forwards, the tackle won, Leah Newcombe seeing the ball safely back to goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan.

   Wymondham come away with the ball on the left played inside for Laura Nicholls, Courtney Lumley getting across her and playing the ball back to goalkeeper, Alex Baker to clear. Wymondham pressing Billericay at the start of the match, results in a break the ball played out to the right Nicholls with space to take advantage off takes the ball on puts the cross in early the diagonal ball just evading striker Hannah Waters central runs on for Rebecca Russell left of the D a chance to shoot scuffs the turf the ball low towards goal not troubling Baker as she drops to her right to lay claim to the ball.

  Bethany Fretwell coming out of the back line driving through the middle with the ball crossing halfway the centrebacks attempted forward pass through the middle just evading Waters as she tries to get in behind the Billericay defence. Billericay attack quickly  bringing the ball on through the middle Jay Blackie on for Zoe Rushen the pass out wide right into the path of Sophie Vale shoots from the angle 20 yards out, the ball racing wide of the near post. Wymondham get an attack going through the midfield, Cossey into Russell on into Waters play spread out to the right as Newcombe sees nothing but grass ahead of her taking the ball down the wing swings a cross into the area claimed by Baker at her near post.

Bethany Fretwell driving forwards for Wymondham Town Ladies

    A good tempo to the game the first 10 minutes flying by, Blackie picking the ball up deep for Billericay inside for Rushen out to Esme Lancaster getting on down the right side, tackled by Kayleigh Holloway, Wymondham try to counter, Morgan breaking up play. A great save from O’Callaghan to keep it at 0-0 as Billericay press forwards, Blackie strong on the ball passing it to Vale has Rushen further out playing her in she shoots angling in blocked by Fretwell in front of goal the rebound back to Rushen her 2nd attempt heading for the top corner, O’Callaghan getting a glove up to the ball turning it wide and out for a corner across her six yard box.

Billericay Town Ladies, Sophie Vale

  A good delivery from Rushen on the corner left side a high tempting ball in central, Blackie rising highest gets a connection her header taking the ball wide of goal. Vale on the ball left taking it inside on to Georgia Box top of the area, turns into Fretwell, quickly joined by Carolyn Sarafian no way through the attack breaks down the ball cleared out to Newcombe left side her pass up to Waters central has Nicholls on close support the pair try to combine Waters lifting it into Nicholls looks to get beyond her into area Nicholls with a deft header trying to knock the ball down into her feet, Baker can get hold of it first for Billericay.

Jay Blackie tackling for Billericay Town Ladies

   Lucy Jones comes forwards for Billericay on the right a good challenge from Newcombe as the full back tries to get inside her. Newcombe fouled on halfway a chance for Wymondham to send players forwards for a set-piece Fretwell on the ball sends it long towards the far post, the home side getting a corner out of it. A good ball into the box an in-swinger coming in central Baker getting her gloves on the ball palms it down into the six yard box, Jorja Patterson reacting quickest for Wymondham her shot straight into Baker’s gloves.

  Frustration evident from Billericay as decisions appear to be going against them more than their opponents, they are pushing on well in attack threatening to get into good scoring positions, Blackie in particular finding space to run into, Bulter and Vale providing great options left and right. Win a corner left side Box controlling the ball spinning it out to Vale closing in on the left her ball into the area deflected behind. Blackie coming for the ball put in near side this time gets away to head the ball goalwards her effort over the bar.

 GOAL! Billericay open the scoring in the 20th minute, win a free-kick in a dangerous position outside the area. The build-up involving Blackie and Rushen the ball into Vale outside the box is brought to the floor. Rushen’s reputation proceeds her, wrote her name down before I even looked to see who was taking it, is a dead ball specialist and this is well within her range a yard outside the area right of the D. She runs up strikes the ball sweetly heading top corner, O’Callaghan can’t get to it 0-1.

Zoe Rushen’s free-kick opens the scoring for Billericay

  Nicholls finds herself back in the box for Wymondham making two superb tackles on Jones as she gets inside the area looking to support Butler as she receives the ball on the left. Wymondham get forwards down the right side win a corner, players up attacking the ball an inviting delivery fired in across the penalty spot no-one can find a telling touch. 

   A great move from Billericay starting with Lancaster at the back on into Morgan central, Blackie bursting down the left channel into the area Morgan sliding the ball into her she squares the ball across the six yard box Rushen central closely marked can’t get a touch runs on for Box at the far post opening up her body to strike the ball, fires the shot straight at O’Callaghan the goalkeeper saving as she shifts across her goal. 

  Play switched from Wymondham left to right Newcombe getting a corner. The ball played short into her free on the right from the set-piece sets a high ball in towards the far post, Russell jumping between two Billericay defenders the ball striking her shoulder drops down in front of goal grabbed by Baker before anyone can pounce. Waters nips in to win the ball off Jones as she brings in out from the back cutting inside bearing down on the area Lumley with a good burst of pace getting back on the cover to win the ball back for the visitors. 

   Billericay come very close to doubling their lead quick to hit Wymondham on the counter attack players looking for channels of space Box this time pulling away to the left as the ball is lifted up to her, O’Callaghan rushing out to the edge of her box the Billericay striker taking the ball past her an open goal beyond she opens up her body setting herself sends the ball on players rushing back across goal Chelsea Clarke getting back in the nick of time clearing the ball before it can cross the line, the corner conceded.

Billericay Town Ladies, Georgia Box

   GOAL! A brief reprieve for Wymondham however as from the resulting corner they do concede a 2nd goal. The delivery from Rushen on the money Blackie with two efforts from corners already making no mistake this time making the near post run her bullet header driving the ball into the back of the net 0-2. 

Billericay Town Ladies, Jay Blackie

  Wymondham attack looking for the immediate response. Waters picking up possession tries to drive on trough the middle, the Billericay defence needing 3 bites at her get the ball away to safety. Nicholls moving out to the left taking the ball into her feet plays the diagonal ball early on for Waters breaking off the last defender in behind into the box Baker coming stays big making the blocking save. Newcombe getting brought down to the ground more than most Wymondham have another free-kick on halfway, Fretwell to delivery forwards runners far post area the ball sent in towards goal Baker saving confidently. Holloway with a mazy run out on the left for Wymondham cutting inside 20 yards out crosses into the area Waters central Lumley with the interception. 

Wymondham Town Ladies, Leah Newcombe

  GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes of the 1st half and Wymondham are awarded a penalty Nicholls played on through the middle taking the ball on towards the box, Baker coming to close her down stays big Nicholls going down as she tries to put the ball pass her, the referee pointing to the spot. Worse to come for Billericay as Baker is shown a red card, sent off for the 1st time in her career. The rules changing this only a yellow card by the offender if it was deemed to be an genuine attempt to play the ball. Nicole Farmer quick to take up the gloves stand in goal for the penalty, Nicholls to take sets herself to open up her body and play the ball high to the right scores to make it 1-2. 

Laura Nicholls on the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Billericay down to 10 attack right from the restart Bulter free on the left surging on into the area rides a sliding tackle herself as she looks for options cutting it back for Rushen outside the box central her venomous strike blocked by Sarafain. Into the closing moments of the first half Wymondham press on Russell out to Holloway, Lancaster blocking her run. 

  GOAL! Wymondham capitalising on their advantage at the end of the 2nd half to pull the score all square, have a throw out on halfway left side the ball dropped into Sarafian she turns and lines up a shot from distance a high ball in lobbing the newly arrived keeper dropping over her into the goal beyond 2-2. 

Wymondham Town Ladies, Carolyn Sarafian

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-2 Billericay Town Ladies

  The game turned completely on its head in the final 5 minutes, Billericay looking good for their 2-0 lead pushing on likely to get more, Wymondham getting it back to 2-1 from the spot in what some may feel was a controversial decision to red card the keeper. The home side taking advantage however scoring and Sarafain testing the new keeper from long range seeing Wymondham level it up at 2-2 moments before the half-time whistle. Cup football for you… create an entirely different outlook for the 2nd half. Billericay needing half-time to regroup gather themselves. Wymondham back in it needing to keep their feet on the ground a player advantage yes 2nd half but will need to remain composed.

   A change for Billericay at half-time having seen the 1st half out Farmer returning to the centre of defence, Vale giving way as new signing Brogan Kelly, usually a striker taking on the role of goalkeeper for the 2nd period. Wymondham to get the 2nd half underway. The ball won by Billericay played out to Butler left side a strong run, Russell getting back to put in the tackle win possession for Wymondham. Despite being down to 10 Billericay have started the 2nd half well, Rushen with a long range strike from 30 yards out flashing wide across the Wymondham six yard box. 

  Russell moving left on for Waters to chase down the wing, Lumley across to clear for Billericay. Farmer winning the ball as she challenges Waters attacking through the middle cleared into the middle Billericay picking out Morgan getting forwards crossed into Butler inside the box the ball getting stuck under her feet digging a shot out O’Callaghan throwing herself into the dive the ball past her but also the post. Jones cutting inside from the left on for Morgan placed central 25 yards out aims to loft the ball over the Wymondham defence with Box breaking in behind the touch too strong the striker can’t reach it. 

Billericay Town Ladies, Nancy Butler

   Billericay come close to retaking the lead a rapid counter right side Box carrying the ball on sends a cross racing in along the front of goal Butler far post close in, is it a save by O’Callaghan a strike against the woodwork or both I can’t tell but it’s not in the heavy sighs of relief from the home crowd behind me say it was close. The game sees no let up in tempo Billericay might be a player down but they are trying to get forwards at any opportunity, Wymondham launch a counter right side the ball into the channel Waters after it shoots on the angle 20 yards out the effort sailing over the bar.

   It’s an intriguing encounter both sides giving it there all both feeling the next goal is theirs. Fretwell striking over from a free-kick after Newcombe is brought down once again. Blackie going into the referees book. Rushen getting forwards on to Box pulling away right wins a throw deep down the line. Rushen the target standing just inside the area into her feet keeps possession taking it higher before turning and sending in a shot the ball running wide across the face of goal. 

Zoe Rushen on the move for Billericay Town Ladies

  Butler left inside to Rushen 30 yards out wide for Blackie right her cross swung into the area claimed well by O’Callaghan. Billericay not enamoured by the referee today are aggrieved at further decisions going against them only adding to their resolve at this point however. Farmer with great defensive work through the middle as she deals with a difficult ball put forwards with Waters lurking behind her. Jones getting in behind on the left sends a high cross into the area taken by O’Callaghan with Box racing in central.

  GOAL! Wymondham take the lead with 20 minutes left on the clock, comes from a defensive error from Billericay forced by Waters the ball played on by Nicholls for her to attack left channel the defensive trying to see the ball back as Kelly comes for it top of the area Waters closing in on the pair as they all converge the ball popping free Waters pouncing leaning back to send the ball over both into the empty goal beyond 3-2.

Build up to the leading goal for Wymondham Town Ladies

   Nicholls and Waters combining again left side for Wymondham in attack, Farmer getting the challenge in to win the ball for Billericay Wymondham make their 1st change, Mollie O’Callaghan coming on for Holloway. Blackie with a powerful drive forwards on the right for Billericay cuts the cross square along the top of the area looking for Butler, her first touch too heavy, Sarafain in to close her down. Billericay make another change Butlers last action of the game as they send on Kelsey Smith.

  Billericay come forwards Blackie wide moving right put long to Morgan running left wins a corner as Newcombe tackles her. The delivery into the area drops down inside the six yard box a bout of ping ball occurs the ball scrambled clear out to the left retrieved by Rushen she shapes to send a shot back in her strike wide across the goal. Wymondham are on the back foot Billericay deciding attack is the only option a 3rd and final change from the visitors Lancaster coming of the defender replaced by Anna Maria Raine who takes up an attacking position on the right.

    GOAL! Billericay get back on level terms pressing bodies forwards in and around the Wymondham box a high ball is lifted into the box from the right side Morgan jumping the highest meets it well heading the ball back across goal over the keeper and in to equalise 3-3.

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

   The game open now Wymondham push on lose possession Rushen playing it up early for Box running in behind, Fretwell doing well to close her down and get hold of the ball. Jones running onto a shot from distance the full backs effort charged down. Waters after a ball played into the Billericay area left side Lumley doing really well up against her in defence. Box on the attack right O’Callaghan coming the ball past her Box further out this time defenders racing back however they can see it wide across goal this time.

   The clock rapidly running down into the final five minutes of the game extra-time and if needed penalties looming. Blackie with a clever ball up top on for Box to attack top of the area Sarafian in to clear for Wymondham.

 GOAL! Billericay retake the lead the goal coming about with more controversy, the Essex side building momentum down the left the ball played into the area O’Callaghan going to stop it a collision the keeper grounded the ball running across the six yard box Rushen following it and wrapping her foot around it to turn it into the goal, everyone’s eyes on the referee, a goal is signalled everyone including Kelly in goal races over to Rushen to celebrate. 

Rushen with Wymondham Town Ladies captain, Rachel Cossey

   A delay after as O’Callaghan requires treatment is okay to continue Wymondham behind now with little time left to find a reply. Olivia Gunn joining the action for the home side late on. A free-kick wide right as Nicholls is clipped going forwards the ball send in far post Fretwell can’t get it back across goal end up off the pitch injured. Into stoppage time Billericay have the ball Box on for Morgan on the left experienced she takes it into the corner. Cool heads needed now Billericay seeing the game out get there winning 4-3 to make it into Monday’s 1st Round Proper draw.

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 3-4 Billericay Town Ladies

   Treated to a 7 goal thriller in the finish, a good start from Billericay the higher league side going 2-0 up, felt they would go on to win comfortably at that point then came the sending off Wymondham drawing level from the penalty spot equalising on the stroke of half-time a real belief they could go on to win it from that point taking the lead with 20 minutes left Billericay had to work hard got back to 3-3 before winning the game themselves late on. That is simply the magic of the cup. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A usual a few contenders for this afternoons Women’s Football East -Player of the Match award. Leah Newcombe doing well for Wymondham at left back. For Billericay, Nicole Farmer with some good defensive work especially 2nd half, Nancy Butler on the left, Jay Blackie too getting into some great positions to receive the ball deep and set up others a threat from corners. Just edging it though is Zoe Rushen powerful on the ball her set-pieces a constant threat.

  5-4 the last time out in the FA Women’s Cup a 7 goal thriller this time around have been treated to some exciting fare so far this season, makes me hungry for more. My thanks as always for the help with today’s teams I know several but it always pays to have a team-sheet.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 30/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 30th September

FA Women’s Cup

The weather out pay to 3 ties across the East from 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup last Sunday the ties rolled onto this Sunday.

  A trip to Mildenhall Town FC for ERWFL Premier Division side, Harlow Town Ladies taking on higher league opponents, FAWNL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC. Few chances in the opening half hour Cambridge breaking the dead-lock in the 34th minute, Vicky Neal finding the back of the net, the lead doubled just 2 minutes later, Faith Hewitt striking from just inside the box. The advantage 3-0 come the half-time whistle with Kelley Blanchflower striking from distance. Steph Gale rifling the ball home to make it 4-0 in the 56th minute. Defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt getting the final touch as the ball was headed goalwards from a corner kick with 15 minutes left, Gabrielle Whitehurst adding a sixth goal from close range in the 86th minute to see Cambridge comfortably through to a 3rd Round Qualifying tie at home to Stevenage Ladies this coming Sunday.

   Was an all FAWNL South East Division One 2nd Round Qualifying tie played this Sunday with Denham United Ladies hosting Crawley Wasps Ladies. Naomi Cole scoring on 15 minutes to hands Crawley Wasps the lead 1-0 the advantage going into the half-time interval. 5 minutes into the 2nd half Crawley Wasps were awarded a corner, Kemina Webber heading home to double the visitors lead. Faye Rabson scoring to make it 3-0 the game closing in on the hour. Denham pulling a goal back substitute Liv Thompson scoring on her debut with her first touch. Crawley Wasps winning 3-1 will now play away against Chesham United Ladies in 3rd Round Qualifying.

   ERWFL Premier Division side, Royston Town Ladies bow out of the FA Women’s Cup after they were defeated on the road against Queens Park Rangers Girls on Sunday. Kristal Clarke, Melanie Hall and Merle Ling amongst the goals as the hosts ran out comfortable winners to progress to 3rd Round Qualifying. Sammy Tinsley scoring the goal for Royston Town. QPR Girls will now face Whyteleafe Ladies away from home this coming Sunday.

Revised 3rd Round Qualifying fixtures featuring sides across the East, ties to be played this coming Sunday 7th October:-

Nettleham Ladies v Histon Ladies

Norwich City Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Acle United Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Chesham United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Godalming Town Ladies

Luton Town Ladies v Oxford City Ladies

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 23/09/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 23rd September

FA Women’s Cup

This Sunday saw 60 ties drawn out of the hat for 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup with the sides from FAWNL Division One entering the competition. 15 of those ties featuring sides competing in the East. The wet start to the weekend following through to Sunday morning putting pay to a few fixtures, Cambridge United WFC v Harlow Town Ladies, QPR Girls FC v Royston Town Ladies & Denham United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies amongst those that will have to try again this coming Sunday.

   The weather was set to clear across the region come kick-off time and although it was a waiting game elsewhere pitches fared fairly well at the start of autumn. It was to one of this weekend’s FA Women’s Cup ties Women’s Football East headed on Sunday. A trip into Cambridge to watch ERWFL Premier Division leaders take on FAWNL South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC. Ended up witnessing a 9 goal thriller. Not that you would have expected that outcome as the higher placed league side made the far better start to the game. Leyton Orient. Pressing the ball getting players into advanced positions Sophie around the box Lisa Holmback’s strike blocked the rebound coming to Tara O’Halloran her strike from the edge of the area going in to give the visitors the lead in the 7th minute. Sophie Le Marchand a constant threat on the left or coming in field doubling Leyton Orient’s lead. Cambridge City struggling to get anything going in attack didn’t have a shot on target until the 43rd minute that though bringing them a vital lifeline to take into the 2nd half, Laura Mills muscling her way through the defence into the box to send the ball home to make it 2-1.

  An eventful 2nd half to follow, Cambridge City getting it back to 2-2 early on Mills setting up Sarah Mosley scoring with a great strike outside the box. Leyton Orient came back to retake the lead from a corner O’Halloran unmarked at the near post heading in from close range. Cambridge City hitting back Charlotte Gillies getting hold of the ball on the right delivering a great cross into the Leyton Orient six yard box new signing Shannon Shaw getting onto the cross to turn it in. Once more Leyton Orient retook the lead Le Marchand beating the onrushing goalkeeper to make it 4-3. Mills with a powerful strike from outside the box bringing it back to 4-4. Close to the end Cambridge City went on to score the winning goal full back Lauren Tomlinson finding space to run into on the left running 3/4 the length of the pitch before squaring a cross along the face of goal Bella Simmons meeting it at the far post to make it 5-4 to the hosts and send them through to the next round knocking out higher league opposition.

   It was an all ERWFL Premier Division clash in 2nd Round Qualifying between AFC Sudbury Ladies and Acle United Women on Sunday. Visitors Acle proving to be too strong for their hosts on the day, goals from Rhianne Brister, Grace Birchall and captain Megan Todd seeing the Norfolk side leading 3-0 at half-time. More goals coming 2nd half with Lauren Bullard netting a brace to make it 5-0 with Todd adding two more herself to complete her hat-trick and a comfortable 7-0 for Acle.

  It was seventh heaven too for Luton Town Ladies as they finally got a victory under their belts on Sunday hosting ERWFL Premier Division side and local rivals AFC Dunstable Ladies. The FAWNL South East Division One side taking the lead through Aurora Ryan scoring her 1st goal for the side. Jess McKay on target to double Luton’s advantage. A strike from distance from Zara Carroll making it 3-0. Nicola Henman heading home from a corner put the hosts 4-0 in front, A brace by Erica Byron along with another goal for McKay making it 7-0. Progressing in the FA Women’s Cup, Luton will be hoping this Sunday’s win can kick start their league campaign as they look to climb off the bottom of the table.

   Norwich City Ladies were on the road in the FA Women’s Cup a wet trip up the A17 to face EMWFL Division One North side Boston United Ladies. The game taking place at Boston United FC the FAWNL South East Division One side running out resounding winner by 11 goals to 3 to progress. Kyla Love netting a 6 minute 1st half hat-trick with further goals coming from Chelsea Garrett, Jodie Drake and Reeanna Cook in the 1st period. Garrett going on to score twice more early in the 2nd half to complete a hat-trick herself. Aimee Durrant and Kathryn Stanley both claiming a goal with Love wrapping up the scoring with 5 minutes left to play.

   Leigh Ramblers Ladies entering the FA Women’s Cup for the first time had already caused an upset by beating higher league opponent Bowers & Pitsea Ladies in the previous round now the newly promoted Essex Women’s Premier Division side were taking on another ERWFL Division One side, Histon Ladies. Travelling to Cambridge, Leigh Ramblers were to score first take the lead. Histon coming back to level with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half Katie Seagrave scoring the equaliser. 1-1 at the break an early goal 2nd half putting Histon into the lead Alison Wright on hand to score. Katie Webb stealing on on the keeper to win the ball and score to make it 3-1 to the hosts in the 56th minute. Leigh Ramblers setting up a tense finish to the game adding a 2nd goal with 6 minutes of normal time left. Histon holding on with 7 minutes of added time to play to go through with a 3-2 win.

    A trip to Norfolk for another Essex Women’s Premier Division side with title hopefuls Corringham Cosmos travelling to play ERWFL Premier Division side, Wymondham Town Ladies who rather like the FA Women’s Cup and they were by far the dominant side in Sunday’s 2nd Round Qualifying tie. Striker Hannah Waters netting a 7 minute hat-trick to see Wymondham leading 3-0 after 23 minutes. Livvy Gunn scoring a 4 minute brace around the half hour a goal Laura Nicholls sandwiched in between. Another for Waters along with a 2nd for Nicholls seeing Wymondham dominant leading 8-0 at half-time. Nicholls completing her hat-trick early in the 2nd half. Chelsea Clarke brought up double figures on 55th minutes. Gunn going on to complete her hat-trick. Nicholls scoring her 4th of the match, Corringham Cosmos getting a goal with a long range strike before Carolyn Sarafian got her name on the scoresheet. into the final 15 minutes Nadine Basson back from injury scoring a brace, Nicholls with a 5th to her name and vice-captain Leah Newcombe scoring from a free-kick. 17-1 the final score.

   Wymondham’s opponents in the next round of the FA Women’s Cup are another fee scoring side this season, Billericay Town Ladies newly promoted the the FAWNL South East Division One were at home in 2nd Round Qualifying taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Colney Heath Ladies. Captain Lindsey Morgan getting Billericay off to a flying start, putting them 1-0 up inside 5 minutes. Megan Jiggins scoring to double the lead 10 minutes later. Zoe Rushen scoring twice in the 2nd half her brace coming either side of a goal from Nicole Farmer on 62 minutes. Amy Nash also getting her 1st goal for Billericay. Jay Blackie scoring a late brace with Danica Dougal making it 9-1 2 minutes from time. Adrienne Milton with the consolation goal for Colney Heath.

   EMWFL Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies were on the road in 2nd Round Qualifying away to FAWNL South West Division One side Chesham United Ladies, were soundly beaten a 5-0 win seeing Chesham United into the next round.

   AFC Wimbledon Ladies were hosting AFC Phoenix Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday the FAWNL South East Division One side needing extra-time to see off their lower league opponents to advance. The sides entering the extra period of play with the 90 minutes ending goalless. So too the 1st period of extra-time the winning goal coming 3 minutes into the 2nd half of extra-time Katie Stanley getting the ball into the back of the net to send Wimbledon into the next round.

   Exiting the FA Women’s Cup at the first hurdle though are FAWNL South East Division One side Ipswich Town Women beaten on penalties by lower league opponents, New London Lionesses. Paige Wakefield scoring early on for Ipswich in the first half conceded a penalty in the 13th minute New London Lionesses equalising from the spot. A free-kick arrowed in from Cassie Craddock late in the 1st half seeing Ipswich restore their lead. New London Lionesses coming back again to make it 2-2 on 70 minutes. Onto extra-time neither side able to break the deadlock it headed to penalties never a nice way to lose great if you get the win and New London Lionesses were celebrating after taking it 4-2.

    An all FAWNL South East Division One clash in 2nd Round Qualifying saw two sides starting the season well going head to head Enfield Town Ladies hosting Actonians Ladies on Sunday. Sara Degooye on target in the 5th minute for Enfield to see the hosts lead. Alessandra Barreca on target for Actonians 2nd half but it wasn’t enough as Enfield clinched a 2-1 win with Molly Peters getting the goal in the 85th minute.

  One more game to bring you from the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday with ERWFL Premier Division side Peterborough Northern Star Ladies hosting FAWNL Division One side Stevenage Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying. A brace from Amy Makewell along with goals for Shona Chitate, Erin Pope and Ellie Searle seeing Stevenage progress with a comfortable 5-1 win. Emma pollard scoring for Northern Star.

  The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup was made this Monday a place in the 1st Round Proper up for grabs, ties to be played Sun 7th October with the winners receiving £600. The ties featuring sides playing in the Women’s Football East catchment listed below:-

Nettleham Ladies v Histon Ladies

Norwich City Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

Acle United Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge United WFC or Harlow Town Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Chesham United Ladies v Denham United Ladies or Crawley Wasps Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Godalming Town Ladies

Whyteleafe Ladies v QPR Girls FC or Royston Town Ladies

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Leyton Orient WFC

Sunday 23rd September

FA Women’s Cup

  It’s FA Cup weekend 2nd Round Qualifying 60 ties taking place with the FAWNL Division One sides entering the competition, has thrown up several interesting looking ties, Women’s Football East is spoilt for choice, heading to Cambridge this Sunday to watch Cambridge City Ladies v Leyton Orient WFC. 

 So much for summer the first weekend in autumn beginning with a blanket of heavy rain moving across the country overnight and lasting long into the day, the sun should be out by kick-off by it’s a question of whether the pitches will hold up or not? 

Cambridge City Ladies go into this Sunday’s 2nd Round Qualifying tie in fantastic form, leading the ERWFL Premier Division just below the FAWNL with a 100% win rate from 5 matches played 3 league games along with two victories in the earlier rounds of the FA Women’s Cup, a 2-0 success away to Newmarket Town Ladies in the Preliminary Round then a 14-0 win against Cambridgeshire Premiership side Riverside Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying, a few hundred pounds collected in prize money already the winning side receiving £450 today.

   Looking to build on their debut season in the ERWFL Premier Division where they clinched runners-up spot last season, Cambridge City have bolstered their squad bringing in striker Shannon Shaw who was prolific in front of goal for Cambridgeshire Premiership side, March Town United Ladies last season. Hannah Bodily returns after a previously playing for Bedford Ladies as does Sofia Castiglione who was with Ipswich Town Women’s academy side last season.

   Leyton Orient WFC have faced Cambridge City once before in the FA Women’s Cup, a 3-1 success in the 2016/17 season as they went on to achieve promotion to the FAWNL (FAWPL as it was then). Leyton Orient WFC progressing well enjoyed a strong debut season amongst the South East Division One front-runners for much of the campaign. After 5 matches this season are currently fifth in the table early stages the two promoted sides Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies setting the pace, those behind such as Leyton Orient more than capable of chasing them down. Entering the FA Women’s Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying along with the rest of the FAWNL Division One clubs. 

  Both sides stronger than they were two seasons ago. The venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, Trinity College Sports Ground. One of several college/university sports grounds dotted about the city. Very much in the heart of the university quarter I’ve seen Cambridge City several times recently but never at home. Must confess to not enjoying driving in Cambridge but I know that part of the city well. Heavy rain falling all morning it was questionable as the whether the game would be on but more or less as I arrived the rain stopped and the sun came out as predicted. A pavilion overlooking the pitch serving hot drinks, the playing surface itself in excellent shape and had absorbed the rain well. The umbrella wasn’t needed afterall.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhundury, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Robyn Phillips, Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione Charlotte Gillies, Laura Mills, Sarah Mosley & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Carla Penny, Anna Kanz, Anna Goggin, Bella Simmons.

Leyton Orient WFC Starting XI – Naomi Ogunde, Francesca Cagetti, Kathryn Canavan, Hannah Porter, Chloe McNee, Danielle Griffiths (C), Lisa Holmback, Tara O’Halloran, Rebecca Hirst, Sophie Le Marchand & Lisa Fulgence. Subs – Connie Monteil-McCann, Belen Ripoll-Douton, Egle Trezzi, Jade Henry & Lydia Cooper.

   Two ex-Cambridge graduates lining up for Leyton Orient this afternoon, club captain Danielle Griffiths and Rebecca Hirst having studied in the city. It’s the visitors to kick-off the first half Leyton Orient wearing an all red kit with Cambridge City lined up in their home colours white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. A cautious start Leyton Orient probing both flanks, Cambridge’s full backs Amy Reed and Lauren Tomlinson dealing with the threat. Lisa Holmback busy in the centre of midfield early on for Leyton Orient winning the ball brings it on before looking to send Sophie Le Marchand through on goal as she makes a run inside from the left the pass a little too heavy allowing Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhundury to collect.

Cambridge City’s, Shannon Shaw contesting the header with Leyton Orient’s, Francesca Cagetti

   Le Marchand looking for the ball on the left wing collects from a throw turning inside shifts the ball, a drop of the shoulder and she moves to the byline, Cambridge captain Becca Fay staying with her prevents the cross coming in. Leyton Orient press the ball Cambridge not getting any momentum going forwards, Tara O’Halloran on for Holmback she lofts the ball forwards into Lisa Fulgence central back to goal holds it up before laying it out to the right for Rebecca Hirst closing in a strike goalwards from outside the area the ball running wide across the six yard box.

Lisa Fulgence looking to hold up the ball for Leyton Orient

  A good start from Leyton Orient, Le Marchand finding space drifting inside especially when the ball is played up to Fulgence. The ball falling to her 25 yards out Le Marchand fires a shot in towards the Cambridge goal dipping Mhundury is right behind it takes it low. Cambridge find a little joy out on the left as Shannon Shaw comes across to pressurise the Leyton Orient defence, does well as Laura Mills coming in nips in to steal the ball running in behind lifts a cross into the box the ball intercepted and cleared by Chloe McNee for Leyton Orient.

   GOAL! Leyton Orient capitalise on their good start to the game by taking an early lead in the 7th minute, attacking push bodies forwards from midfield overwhelming the Cambridge defence Le Marchand inside to Holmback strikes the ball form 20 yards her vicious effort blocked rebounds back out to O’Halloran to her right she fires in another shot, Mhundury having reacted to Holmback’s effort is unable to adjust getting a glove to the ball can’t keep it out at the near post 0-1.

  Holmback very influential in the early stages for Leyton Orient winning the ball in the middle Cambridge are struggling to get anything going, direct in their approach it is effective from the visitors Hirst and Le Marchand getting forwards quickly. A following attack from Leyton Orient as Le Marchand comes on with the ball left twists and turns coming in field laying the ball into Fulgence central held up the striker plays the ball back to Holmback who in turn has O’Halloran in support to her right giving her the ball O’Halloran has seen Le Marchand’s run into the box look to play the ball over the top of the Cambridge defence, just a little too much on it for Le Marchand to turn home as she can’t gather the ball before it runs out of play, a good attacking move.

Leyton Orient WFC’s, Lisa Holmback with Cambridge City’s, Sarah Mosley

   Trying to build going forwards Cambridge are frustrated nothing coming off, Kathryn Canavan and Francesca Cagetti both tackling to prevent crosses. Mills puts a ball in early from the left Charlotte Gillies out wide right gathers looks to send a cross in along the goal face Canavan blocking the ball behind for a corner. Leyton Orient deal with the Cambridge set-piece. Mills holds up the ball on the left wing as Tomlinson comes racing past her gathering the ball heads for the byline, Cagetti staying with her slides in to make the tackle.

Charlotte Gillies attacking for Cambridge City Ladies

    Le Marchand always ready to go on the left claims the ball turns and runs into the corner whips a great ball in across the face of the Cambridge goal no one there to turn it home. Fulgence comes deep to the halfway line to receive the ball, tries to flick it on for Le Marchand catch Cambridge with a high defensive line, Robyn Phillips does well making the challenge to prevent Le Marchand getting away with the ball. Shaw moving into the left channel gathers the ball tries to send it back inside towards Sofia Castiglione making a central run, McNee stepping out of the Leyton Orient back-line to deny her a strike.

  A good tempo the the match Leyton Orient controlling it is limiting Cambridge’s effectiveness going forwards play mostly to their left. Chances few and far between Shaw collecting from a throw on the left spins and shoots from the angle her shot half blocked deflected wide across Ogunde’s goal. A free-kick wide left for Cambridge in the corner played back up the line to Tomlinson she hits it hard, the only reason I know that is because Leyton Orient’s O’Halloran rushing towards her blocks it and needs treatment as a result. But she is okay to continue.

  GOAL! Closing in on the half hour and Leyton Orient double their lead. Le Marchand the scorer Leyton Orient counter attacking get the ball up front quickly central a difficult bouncing ball to deal with at the top of the area Le Marchand in close making thing’s difficult muscles her way past the defence the ball at her feet drives it low past Mhundury into the back of the net 0-2.

   Nothing Cambridge try will come off, Shaw looks to link up with Gillies on the right as Castiglione plays the ball forwards, Canavan getting hold of the ball setting Leyton Orient on the counter through the middle up to Le Marchand sweeps the pass out to Fulgence right side top of the area her strike goalwards claimed by Mhundury at her near post. Again Leyton Orient break from a Cambridge corner Le Marchand left firing a diagonal ball into Fulgence, Fay nipping in to push the ball away O’Halloran picks it up drives forwards top of the area looking for options over taking a shot tries to slip the ball in behind for Fulgence right can’t find her, the ball cleared only to Hirst wide right her cross in lands on the roof of the net.

Cambridge City Ladies, Amy Reed up against Leyton Orient’s, Sophie Le Marchand

    Reed defends up against Le Marchand as she tries to get inside her on the left in attack. Getting numbers forwards Leyton Orient press high. Sarah Mosley back to defend for Cambridge clears the long on the right Gillies giving chase, Hannah Porter getting across her does well to see the ball back to her keeper. Holmback fouled on halfway, Griffiths to play the ball long up towards the top of the Cambridge box, Fay with a commanding header clears the threat. Le Marchand with a strong run inside from the left into Fulgence back to goal attempts to flick it on into the box with Holmback making a good run doesn’t quite come off.

Leyton Orient WFC captain, Danielle Griffiths

  GOAL! 2 minutes of normal time left in the first half and Cambridge pull a goal back with their first shot on target. A superb run and goal from Laura Mills on the left picking the ball up wide left drives forwards coming infield towards the area rides two challenges powering her way into the box before striking the ball past the static Ogunde into the back of the goal 1-2. More or less the last goal mouth action before the end of the half.   

Laura Mills pulling it back to 21 late in the 1st half for Cambridge City.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 1-2 Leyton Orient WFC

  A vital goal for Cambridge City coming right at the end of the first half to pull it back to 2-1. Leyton Orient by far the better starting well and taking an early lead pressed the ball well, direct at times but effective, attacking quickly in numbers, Le Marchand in particular finding room using the ball well. Set the tempo and Cambridge struggled to get anything going their late goal altering thing’s dramatically going into the half-time break. All to play for 2nd half.

  No changes for either side Cambridge getting the 2nd half underway. Castiglione putting a ball long for Hannah Bodily to give chase to through the middle, dissecting the Leyton Orient defence, but not fooling Ogunde who is positioned well to gather. A blow to the head for McNee she needs treatment but can return to the pitch. O’Halloran with a shot well of the mark as Fulgence wins the header forwards knocking the ball into her 30 yards out. Shaw plays the ball out to Gillies deep on the right wing she is tackled by Canavan the throw-in conceded.

   GOAL! Cambridge equalise bringing the scores back level 5 minutes into the 2nd half the goal coming from the throw-in the ball crossed in along the top of the area Mills getting in front of her marker left side knocks the ball down sees Mosley in a great position 20 yards out lays the ball into her Mosley strikes the ball sweetly it flies in towards goal past Ogunde before she can get anything on it. 2-2.

   Tomlinson with an important interception getting her foot up to cut out a lofted ball forwards from midfield from Leyton Orient with Hirst all set to run clear in behind. The visitors with a golden chance to restore their lead Le Marchand running in on the ball played into her as she breaks in behind left, Mhundury coming out to close her down Le Marchand clever knocks the ball past her towards goal. Hirst is central inside the six yard box, can’t dig the ball out of her feet to get the shot away before Phillips closes her down makes the challenge.

    GOAL! Leyton Orient do succeed in retaking the lead the goal coming from a corner won by Le Marchand on the left as Griffiths sends the long diagonal pass out to her. Players forwards inside the box as the delivery is put in a great ball across the face of goal, O’Halloran clear at the far post nodding the ball in from close range to make it 2-3.

Tara O’Halloran heading the ball in from the corner

  Leyton Orient look to press their advantage coming forwards win a free-kick wide right inside the Cambridge half Griffiths to put the ball into the box good flight on the ball Mhundury is able to catch the ball unchallenged. Le Marchand with the ball, draws the foul wide left this time another good ball into the area a crowd around the penalty spot a Leyton Orient head connects with the ball the attempt dropping wide of the far post. Leyton Orient make the first change of the match bringing on Lydia Cooper for Hirst on the right. Cooper involved straight away as Holmback plays the ball out to her on the wing she gives chase but a good starting position from Mhundury sees her able to gather the ball first. 

Leyton Orient WFC substitute, Lydia Cooper trying to get in behind

  GOAL! Cambridge come back to equalise again 6 minutes after conceding they build on the right side Gillies having more of the ball 2nd half gets on down the line getting her foot around the ball sends a dipping cross into the six yard box, Shaw timing her run perfectly getting in to met the ball low and turn it into the back of the net from close range 3-3.

   Leyton Orient have a free-kick wide left. Cambridge make a change before it is taken Mosley coming off on comes Carla Penny taking up a role wide left. The free-kick played down the line the cross put in near post Fulgence can’t bring down for a shot instead lays it back towards the top of the box with McNee running in her strike wide across the goal.

  GOAL! For the 3rd time in the match Leyton Orient take the lead O’Halloran sending a long ball out to the left for Le Marchand to race onto in behind Mhundury comes racing out to close her down once again, the attacker taking on the shot early gets it in on target may have taken a slight deflection off the keeper as it runs slowly towards the open goal but despite the best efforts of the Cambridge defence none can catch up to it before it crosses the line 3-4.

Leyton Orient WFC’s, Sophie Le Marchand

Gillies with a long range pop sends a low strike from 30 yards out on the right wide across the Leyton Orient box. Mhundury gets down sharply inside her box to claim the ball as Leyton Orient create on the left the ball helped in by Fulgence, Holmback behind knocking the ball into the box as she looks to beat her marker. Griffiths across well on the cover to defend as Mills sends a ball long up the right for Shaw to chase the defender playing the ball safely back to her keeper.

  GOAL! For the 3rd time in the tie Cambridge come back for score the equaliser. Comes from a free-kick wide on the right the ball played up towards the top of the area several forwards for Cambridge. Blocked by Canavan the rebound runs back to Mills 25 yards out strikes the ball well on the angle driving it low across the keeper and into the far corner 4-4.

  Cambridge make a 2nd change Bella Simmons entering the action replacing Shaw up top. Leyton Orient bring off Canavan, send on Egle Trezzi. Tomlinson has bionic arms (maybe) nevertheless has a good long throw in her armoury when Cambridge can get her into an advanced position she offers an added threat gets the ball into Mills top of the area she turns inside closely marked plays the ball on, Griffiths intercepting hooks the ball clear for Leyton Orient. 

Carla Penny bringing the ball under control for Cambridge City.

Up the other end Tomlinson gets back in support of Fay as her captain is muscled off the ball by Fulgence looking to turn and run in behind the fullback making a good challenge. The game naturally becoming a little stretched late on both sensing they can score another, Leyton Orient feed Le Marchand on the left driving down the wing squares the ball in near post Fulgence with the run is closed down by Mhundury the keeper doing enough as Fulgence puts the ball wide.

Lauren Tomlinson winning the ball for Cambridge City

   Tomlinson with another chance to deliver a long throw Leyton Orient wary of the threat the ball comes in Gillies gets her head on it directs the attempt wide of goal. A free-kick wide left for Leyton Orient, Griffiths to play the ball in sends it long across the six yard box no one gets a head on it as it runs out of play far post. A final change for Leyton Orient in attack, off comes Fulgence replaced by Jade Henry. Le Marchand always ready to break in behind off the shoulder of the last defender on the left the ball long up to her Mhundury comes again, Le Marchand shoots, the keeper making the save with her legs as she jumps in front of the attacker.

   GOAL! Cambridge take the lead for the first time in the tie! The game stretched in the closing minutes Leyton Orient pressing Tomlinson gathering the ball at left back sees space open up in front of her goes on a brilliant run carrying the ball 3 quarters of the pitch up the left crossing from the byline a fizzing effort racing across the face of goal, Simmons sliding in at the far post turns the ball in at close range 5-4.

Scorer of Cambridge City Ladies, 5th goal Bella Simmons holding the ball up

  For the first time in the game Leyton Orient are behind with minutes left on the clock push forwards attacking left side the cross swung in Henry with the knock down near side to Le Marchand top of the area she puts her foot through the ball but can’t keep the effort down as it flies over the crossbar. It’s all about composure now Cambridge are looking to seeing it out the adrenaline pumping not an easy thing to do into stoppage time Leyton Orient come on can find no reply as Cambridge complete a memorable result to win the match.

  Full time Cambridge City Ladies 5-4 Leyton Orient WFC

  What a game! That 2nd half was something else I’m perhaps the only neutral there but how can you not be emotive watching games like that. Cambridge coming back to equalise 3 times in the match before going on to score what proved to be the winning goal themselves to advance in the FA Women’s Cup. Showed good character to keep coming back were lacklustre in the first half not getting anything going but never out of the tie. Leyton Orient will be deflated, can only be so after taking the lead 4 times in the match and failing to go on and win it going behind themselves with so little time left. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Several good performances from both sides, Le Marchand excellent for Leyton Orient a threat all game, Holmback in the middle especially 1st half, O’Halloran too. Tomlinson was excellent at left back for Cambridge and a great run and cross for what proved to be the winning goal. It was another goal that changed the course of this tie however and that was Cambridge’s first coming so late in the 1st half was vital pulling it back to 2-1 was so critical gave Cambridge that belief, and for that plus another and an assist today’s Player of the Match award goes to Laura Mills.

   What an exciting game to watch a privilege and it’s why I love the sport so much. My thanks to both managers for their help with the teams and Cambridge City for their hospitality. Thanks to for the weather a bright sunny afternoon after such a dismal start a welcome bonus. 

The Round-Up – 02/09/18 FA Women’s Cup

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd September

FA Women’s Cup – First Round Qualifying

Hot on the heels of last Sunday’s very wet Preliminary Round the FA Women’s Cup is back for a 2nd success Sunday with First Round Qualifying. 12 ties featuring sides playing in the East with some high scoring wins along the way. 

  For the 2nd successive Sunday, Wymondham Town Ladies have progressed without kicking a ball so too Essex Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos Women as their opponents were forced to withdraw. The pair incidentally drawn together in Second Round Qualifying that draw to come at the end of The Round-Up

  It was a huge scoreline for ERWFL Premier Division side, Cambridge City Ladies in First Round Qualifying as they ran out double figure winners over Cambridgeshire Premiership newcomers, Riverside Ladies on Sunday. Erin Davies netting a double hat-trick top scorer for Cambridge. Both Bronte Rapley and Sofia Castiglione both getting two each. Amy Reed, Laura Mills, Hannah Bodily & Anna Goggin also getting a goal apiece in a 14-0 result.

 It was double figures too for Royston Town Ladies in First Round Qualifying as the ERWFL Premier Division side proved to be to strong for Division One opponents Bishops Stortford Ladies on Sunday. Royston’s goals spread out amongst the side, Samantha Edgar and Hayley Elderd both scoring a brace the other goalscorers, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Angharad Chambers, Eva Ramsey, Rebecca Scott & Sammy Tinsley.

  There were 8 goals shared between Peterborough Northern Star Ladies & Northampton Town Ladies in their First Round Qualifying tie before Peterborough Northern Star clinched victory in the penalty shoot-out. Katie & Cassie Steward, Jessica Driscoll and Bronwyn Mulheron getting the goal for the hosts, Northampton matching that tally extra-time not separating the sides an eventful game finally settled with spot kicks Peterborough Northern Star emerging 3-1 winners to progress to the next round.

  St Ives Town Ladies progressing to First Round Qualifying with an extra-time winner over Corby Town Ladies were at home again in First Round Qualifying taking on EMWFL Premier Division side Peterborough United Ladies. Another tough test for St Ives, Peterborough strong in the first half Hannah Pendred scoring in the 10th minute to give the visitors the lead. Kier Perkins doubling the advantage to see Peterborough leading 2-0 at half-time. St Ives got themselves a goal back in the 2nd half Caitlin Jarman putting the ball home to make it 2-1. Peterborough held onto their lead to reach the next round.

     AFC Dunstable Ladies were at home to Watford Ladies Development in First Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday. Running out comfortable winners, Storm Sherry Burrows opening the scoring in the 15th minute went on to score again with a goal from Rachel Moffat in between to see Dunstable leading 3-0 at half-time. Moffat adding her 2nd of the tie 10 minutes into the 2nd period, Samaira Khan struck home with 10 minutes left on the clock to make it 5-0.

A brace from Poppy Binding the winning goal coming 5 minutes from the end saw Harlow Town Ladies overcome fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Brentwood Town Ladies on Sunday in reach Second Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup as they ran out 2-1 victors away from home. Lauren Knight scoring for Brentwood.

   First half goals from Sheree Oliver and Lucy Hancock were enough to see ERWFL Premier Division side, Colney Heath Ladies at home through to the next round of the FA Women’s Cup after they ran out 2-0 winners over opponents Houghton Athletic Ladies, from Beds & Herts Women’s Division One playing their 1st competitve game of the season.

Histon Ladies were at home in First Round Qualifying taking on Northamptonshire side, Thrapston Town Ladies this Sunday. The ERWFL Division One side winning for the first time this season to advance into the next round. After a goalless first half, Katie Webb struck early in the 2nd half to put Histon into the lead. Kaya Haqi’s 1st goal for Histon doubling the lead Thrapston Town pulled it back to 2-1 deep into stoppage time.

  Women’s Football East was at Beccles Town FC last Sunday in the rain to watch Chelmsford City Ladies clinch victory in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup to set up a First Round Qualifying home tie against AFC Sudbury Ladies. Chelmsford exiting the competition but by the narrowest of margins against their ERWFL Premier Division opponents as Sudbury won the tie by a single goal Mia Etheridge finding the back of the net to see the Suffolk side progress.

Mia Etheridge

   Leigh Ramblers Ladies join fellow Essex Women;s Premier Division side Corringham Cosmos in the next round of the FA Women’s Cup with a 2-0 win over higher league opponents Bowers & Pitsea Ladies on Sunday. Leigh Ramblers were making their debut in the competition, defended well as Bowers & Pitsea created chances first half keeping their fellow Essex side at bay Leigh took the lead late in the 1st half. Doubled the advantage from a corner early in the 2nd half and despite Bowers & Pitsea pressing for a reply couldn’t find it as Leigh celebrated victory.

  One final tie to report on ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Ladies travelled to Northamptonshire to play Kettering Town Ladies in their First Round Qualifying tie. A brace from attacker Grace Birchall along with midfielder Amber Rowland netting her first goal of the season saw the Norfolk side safely through the next round with a 3-1 victory.

  The draw for Second Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup was made on Monday the sides from FAWNL Division One  entering the competition. Selected ties featuring sides playing in the East are listed below.

Billericay Town Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Corringham Cosmos Women

AFC  Sudbury v Acle United Ladies

Chesham United Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

Histon Ladies v Leigh Ramblers Ladies

   Cambridge City Ladies v Leyton Orient WFC

Luton Town Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies

Enfield Town Ladies v Actonians Ladies

Boston United Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

New London Lionesses v Ipswich Town Women

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

Queens Park Rangers Girls v Royston Town Ladies

Cambridge United WFC v Harlow Town Ladies

Denham United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v AFC Phoenix Ladies 

  Second Round Qualifying ties to be played Sunday 23rd September with the winners receiving £450. Good luck to all.

The Round-Up – FA Women’s Cup 26/08/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 26th August

FA Women’s Cup 

  An early start to the season for a number of clubs with this years FA Women’s Cup seeing a record number of entrants meaning a Preliminary Round that featured 53 ties across the country including 6 involving teams in the East. There were a few casualties though due to the early start and it also being a Bank Holiday weekend getting a team together a challenge. Wymondham Town Ladies advancing through to First Round Qualifying without kicking a ball with there opponents Moulton Ladies withdrawing. That saved them getting a soaking however as the whole of the region was experiencing heavy rain come kick-off time Sunday afternoon. 

Preliminary Round

  Of the 5 ties in the Preliminary Round that were played in the East, Beccles Town Ladies were one of the lowest ranked sides making their debut in the competition, this time last season they hadn’t even kicked a competitive ball. Now they were at home taking on Essex Premier Division side Chelmsford City Ladies. It was to the Suffolk where Women’s Football East headed to watch the game. The promised rain arrived at kick-off and was persistent throughout. A slow start, Beccles centre backs cutting out Chelmsford’s forward passes, up the other end a shot flashing across the face of goal,  was goalless at the break.

Georgia James on the attack for Chelmsford City Ladies

  Chelmsford started the 2nd period lively attackers Georgia James and Lisa Overall moving around well to try and stretch the Beccles defence and the pair combined early on to hand Chelmsford the lead James on the left delivering a perfect cross to Overall making a near post run a deft header sending the ball over the keeper into the back of the net. Beccles had chances to draw level whilst their goalkeeper Chloe Pearce kept them in it at the other end including saving from the penalty spot in the closing minutes. Chelmsford getting the narrow win will face ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies at home in next weekend First Round Qualifying match. The link to the full match report can be found by clicking on the  following link  https://womensfootballeast.com/match-report-342/

  Elsewhere in the FA Women’s Cup Preliminary Round, St Ives Town Ladies were at home taking on Corby Town Ladies. Having gotten off to a great start in the league St Ives Town expected a tougher test this time around and so it proved with the game heading all the way to extra-time the sides goalless after 90 minutes. The winning goal scored in extra-time and it was St Ives Town celebrating as Katie Stancombe struck her first goal of the season to send the hosts through and another tough tie in First Round Qualifying at home against Peterborough United Ladies this coming Sunday.

   It was the first competitve match of the season for both Royston Town Ladies and Hertford Town Ladies as they were drawn together in the Preliminary Round of the FA Women’s Cup. Royston playing in the ERWFL Premier Division hosting Division One, Hertford the higher league side proving too strong with 3 players all opening their season with a brace, Francesca Smithers, Hayley Elderd and Joanne Rutherford on her return to Royston. Samantha Edgar also claiming a goal for Royston in a 7-1 win. Royston will now be away to Bishops Stortford Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.

  A good run in the FA Women’s Cup for Newmarket Town Ladies last season dispatching 2 higher league sides before being stopped by Wymondham Town Ladies in extra-time. Newly promoted to the ERWFL themselves this season Newmarket faced a tough test in the Preliminary Round drawn at home against Premier Division, Cambridge City Ladies. The ERWFL Premier Division side doing the business to progress, Charlotte Gillies and Carla Penny with the goals in each half to secure the win. Cambridge City will now be at home to Riverside Ladies in First Round Qualifying this coming Sunday.

  The last tie featuring sides from the East in the Preliminary Round was an all Essex affair with Frontiers Ladies from the Essex Women’s Premier Division hosting ERWFL Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies. The higher league side progressing with Georgia Holdaway following up her opening day brace with a hat-trick this Sunday to move her onto 5 goals already this season. Leah Cowan returning to the Brentwood side following a lengthy sell out  with injury last season was also on target for her 1st goal of the season in a 4-0 win. Brentwood will now be at home against Harlow Town Ladies in First Round Qualifying on Sunday.

      The draw for First Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sun 2nd September featuring sides in the East is as follows – 

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Northampton Town Ladies

St Ives Town Ladies v Peterborough United Ladies

Wymondham Town Ladies v Roade Ladies

Kettering Town Ladies v Acle United Women

Cambridge City Ladies v Riverside Ladies

Histon Ladies v Thrapston Town Ladies

Leigh Ramblers Ladies v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Corringham Cosmos v Bungay Town Ladies

Brentwood Town Ladies v Harlow Town Ladies

Chelmsford City Ladies v AFC Sudbury Ladies

AFC Dunstable Ladies v Watford Ladies Development

Bishops Stortford Ladies v Royston Town Ladies

Colney Heath Ladies v Houghton Athletic Ladies

Match Report – Beccles Town Ladies v Chelmsford City Ladies

Sunday 26th August

FA Women’s Cup Preliminary Round

  An early start to the FA Women’s Cup this season. The Road to Wembley beginning in August with a record number of entrants to the competition that saw 53 ties drawn for the Preliminary Round more than ever before. Women’s Football East travels to Beccles this Sunday to watch one of those new entrants, Beccles Town Ladies take on Essex side, Chelmsford City Ladies.

An early start to the season for several clubs which has led to difficulties in player availability some clubs forced to withdraw. Is a magical competition that throws up many memorable and intriguing ties over the season. Regionalised in the early rounds clubs can still make journey’s longer than they are accustomed to and test themselves against higher league opponents.

  This time last year Beccles Town Ladies hadn’t even played a competitive fixture. The Suffolk side joined the Norfolk Women & Girls Football League (NWGFL) last season. A memorable debut season in Division Two saw the club clinch promotion as runners-up losing just the one league game along the way. Beginning the new campaign in Division One their season begin’s with their 1st ever game in the FA Women’s Cup. New signings made over the summer the side is still getting to know one another on the field.

 The visitors today Chelmsford City Ladies, travelling up to Suffolk from Essex the club plays in the Essex Women’s Premier Division, where more often than not they have been amongst the sides challenging for the title. Injuries to a number of players last season made for a difficult season, a mid-table finish nonetheless have built over the summer and are confident to once again be amongst the top sides challenging for the league title. A home tie against ERWFL Premier Division side, AFC Sudbury Ladies awaits today’s winner in First Round Qualifying next Sunday.

 Heading east for today’s game I was just in front of the wet weather that was sweeping in from the west to cover pretty much the entire region come the afternoon. Beccles Town Ladies play their home games at Beccles Town FC the football ground part of a larger sports facility on the outskirts of Beccles, housing a cricket, bowls and rugby. The football ground has seen some recent upgrades. Is a large pitch with a lush cover of grass, wide space to exploit. A small covered stand with some seating (very much needed today) a tea hut beside. The rain light before the game the heavens pretty much opened the minute the two sides took their positions either side of the referee for the handshakes.

Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Millie Fisher, Marie Carter, Megan Vincent (C), Poppy Wilson, Victoria Ottey, Francesca Heaney, Lucy Robbens, Bethan Owen, Chelsea Caplin & Taylor Whiting. Subs – Darcie Keiley & Caitlin Harvey.

Chelmsford City Ladies starting XI – Kin Ripton, Holly Gurnett, Broghan Lambert, Aimee Gannon, Gaby Freedman (C), Rosie Coe, Shannon Kelly, Adele Munday, Niki Medici, Georgia James & Lisa Overall. Subs – Laura Kendle, Charlotte Palmer & Monique Black.

Going to be a wet one out there this afternoon

Both sides used to roll on roll of substitutes the FA Women’s Cup is different only 3 substitutes each in the 90 minutes. Raining heavily it’s Beccles to kick-off the 1st half, wearing white shirts with black shorts and socks. Chelmsford lined up opposite in their claret strip. The hosts look to make progress into the Chelmsford half straight away the ball fed through the middle knocked on into the box an early claim of the ball for Chelmsford goalkeeper Kim Ripton.

  Play condensed in the middle of the park, defences from both sides cutting out any forward balls. Victoria Ottey and Francesca Heaney in midfield for Beccles look to combine through the middle bringing the ball forwards the pass out to the left for Chelsea Caplin to chase is instead won by Chelmsford right back Holly Gurnett. Ottey onto the ball again forwards into Heaney on for Taylor Whiting in attack the Beccles forward placing her shot from outside the box wide of goal.

Beccles Town Ladies captain, Megan Vincent

 Chelmsford come forwards the ball played out to Georgia James peeling out into the channel, Beccles captain Megan Vincent at centre back comes across to make the tackle prevent James getting into the box with the ball. Niki Medici takes the ball on down the left wing for Chelmsford her low cross squared into the box intercepted and cleared by Beccles, Poppy Wilson. 

Chelmsford City Ladies, Georgia James

  Whiting is forced off the ball as she makes a run for the top of the box having be played in by Lucy Robbens in midfield for Beccles, Gaby Freedman the Chelmsford captain with the challenge. The first real chance of the game falls to the hosts, Heaney charging a ball down on the right sprints beyond the full back and sends a dangerous low cross along the six yard box, evading Ripton comes straight to Whiting at the far post looks to send the ball back across goal into the bottom corner, instead it flashes wide across the face of goal out for a goalkick.

Chelmsford Niki Medici with Beccles, Bethan Owen

  The weather a far cry from the heatwave enjoyed earlier in the summer, conditions miserable the rain falling heavily, both sides are struggling to get in full flow, Shannon Kelly backed up with Coe in midfield for Chelmsford tries twice to get James and Lisa Overall in attack in on goal as the attackers attempt to get in behind, Wilson and Vincent winning the ball on both occasions. Millie Fisher challenging Adele Munday and winning the ball as the Chelmsford midfielder attempts to get in behind.

  James wins Chelmsford the first corner of the match on the right side the ball into the box cleared at the near post. Chelmsford attack the ball forward into Kelly right inside the Beccles half sends the pass on with James making a run, Wilson stays with her putting in the tackle inside the D, the deflected ball falling to Medici coming on from the left strikes the ball in across the goal face drops wide of goal. 

Chelmsford City Ladies, Niki Medici puts in a ball towards the area.

  James is starting to peel of the Beccles centre backs out into the channels to find room, the Chelmsford striker pushing the ball out to Medici on the left takes the ball on before sweeping a cross into the area, Wilson the first to it to clear for Beccles. Both sides with a spell of sustained pressure Chelmsford mounting an attack the Beccles centre backs cutting out the final pass. Beccles counter attack numbers forwards Heaney with Whiting ahead of her on the right, Aimee Gannon intercepting her cross at the top of the box, Robbens races in to steal it back looks to release Caplin on her left, Ripton able to gather the ball.

Bethan Owen on the attack for Beccles Town Ladies

  Bethan Owen finds a Chelmsford goal kick coming straight to her 25 yards out controls and sends the ball into Whiting ready to turn in behind central to goal takes a shot her low effort saved by Ripton on her penalty spot as she goes to ground. Heaney has a shot from the edge of the area as she gets forwards to support the attack for Beccles from midfield left side, Ripton claiming the ball safely at her near post.

  It’s Overall’s turn to make a run into the channel giving chase to a ball popping free after pinging around in the midfield, Wilson has the pace to catch up with the Chelmsford attacker putting in the tackle concedes a corner kick. Medici to play the ball in from the left cut out near post the deflected ball dropping to Kelly outside the box, taking the shot on the half volley, her curling effort is straight into the arms of Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Aimee Gannon

  Chelmsford are awarded a free kick wide on the right inside the Beccles half, players go forwards into the box as the ball is played in James allows the ball to run past her near post as she pulls her marker with her the ball rolling on is met by Coe who strikes it 1st time her powerful strike driven wide. Beccles bring the ball on Heaney carrying in on through midfield her past setting up Whiting for a shot outside the area right of the D pulls the effort wide of the right post.

Beccles Town Ladies. Francesca Heaney

 Ripton with a good take to claim the ball low inside her box and Owen dinks a ball in over the top for Beccles. James manages to shake off the attentions of her marker in the centre spinning clear to the left has space to run into but opts for the early strike 20 yards out on the angle doesn’t get enough on the ball to threaten Pearce’s goal the keeper gathering the ball. Medici with the ball left side squares a cross along the face of the area, Overall meeting the ball her strike is charged down by Vincent. 

  Late into the 1st half Chelmsford have a corner on the right the ball played in low near side is turned in towards goal by Freedman, Vincent blacking and clearing the ball for Beccles. Overall is flagged offside and Chelmsford attack in the closing moments of the half going slightly too early as Coe threads a pass through the middle.

Half-time Beccles Town Ladies 0-0 Chelmsford City Ladies

  A goalless 1st half, wet and horrible conditions have contributed to the stalemate neither side getting control of the ball for very long, quality lacking at times is still very early in the season for both sides Beccles creating slightly more in the final third but defences on top so far.

  A change for Beccles at the break with Darcie Kelly joining the action, the rain still persistent as Chelmsford get the ball rolling for the 2nd half. The visitors on the attack straight away Munday with a strong run on the ball down the left fires a cross in hard into the six yard box evades everyone near post Carter getting in front of Medici defends as she comes on far post the ball deflected straight into the path of Overall she opens up her body in an attempt to get the ball around the keeper, can’t as Pearce claims the ball into her midriff.

Beccles Town Ladies, Poppy Wilson

  Chelmsford have started the 2nd half strongly getting forwards the ball is played to Overall drifting right her early cross in cut out by Wilson, the ball back into the middle regained by Chelmsford Kelly out to Overall who has stayed right her early cross into the near post James under challenge gets a shot away blasts the ball straight at Pearce.

 GOAL! The bright start to the 2nd half from Chelmsford sees them take the lead in the cup tie James and Overall have been trying all sorts up top to find room in behind the Beccles centre backs both peeling into the channels combine for the opening goal well worked as the ball is put into James out wide left she whips a cross in towards the near post Overall has made a run near post in evading her marker to get her head on the end of the ball sends a looping header up over Pearce from the top of the six yard box to drop into the back of the net 0-1.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Lisa Overall scorer of the opening goal

  Overall almost has a 2nd goal moments later as she charges down the ball on the right outside the box and from the corner of the area attempts to lob the keeper, Pearce back on her line however is well positioned to bring the ball under control. Beccles relieve the pressure sending a long ball forwards allowing it to bounce Chelmsford don’t have it, almost sets Whiting away in the left as she goes after it Gannon sliding in has to concede the throw, taken quickly Whiting plays the ball in from the byline her cross in cut out by Ripton as the keeper goes to ground at her near post.

  Another change for Beccles one substitute for the other as Harvey withdraws, Caitlin Harvey coming on to join Whiting in attack. Coe in to win the ball in the centre of midfield plays it forwards into Overall outside the box she looks to divert the ball towards goal with the outside of her boot off target running wide she and Pearce have a coming together as the keeper slides in on the ball. Treatment needed but Pearce is okay to continue. Medici with a deft ball on the left into the area James attacking it, Vincent in across the attacker wins the ball.

Chelmsford City Ladies, Adele Munday

  Caplin is played in by Ottey left side charges forwards but lacking options is marshalled off the ball by Gurnett. Munday brings the ball on for Chelmsford right side lifts the ball on for Overall positioned top of the Beccles area gets a shot away over the defence looking to lob the keeper back on her line once again awkward for Pearce she does well to get a fist on the ball punch it away to the right. 

  Robbens has been getting into more advanced positions for Beccles as the 2nd half has worn on and spinning clear of the centre backs 20 yards from goal as the ball is played across her from the right she swivels into a shot cutting the ball back towards goal swerving through the area is narrowly wide of the top corner nestling into the side netting. Lambert slides in to deny Harvey getting forwards for Beccles as she attacks down the right.

Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens getting clear of the Chelmsford defence

   James with a jinking run on the ball attacks for Chelmsford outside the box across the D, Overall tries to get inside the box for the cut back, Carter coming inside from the left slides in to claim it for Beccles. Gannon gets across Whiting as the Beccles forwards attempts to power her way through the middle after being played in by Robbens. A free-kick for Beccles on half way Vincent over it the ball played in towards the top of the area somehow manages to squeeze on through into the box Robbens is on it spinning onto the shot maybe gets a little too much power behind it as she fires it wide across the face of the Chelmsford goal.

   Chelmsford make a change, Medici the player coming off, Monique Black a direct swap for her on the left wing. Robbens onto the ball in the centre tries to release Caplin on her left, the winger run off the ball by Gurnett. Pushing forwards into the Chelmsford half Beccles come close once again Carter setting up Heaney as she surges forwards pulls the trigger from outside the area the ball racing low across the face of the Chelmsford goal Ripton can see it wide of her far post.

Francesca Heaney gets the better of Chelmsford’s Lisa Overall

   Robbens with a shot from 20 yards out as the ball is diverted into her, the ball straight at Ripton. Wilson brings the ball on from centre back for Beccles releases Caplin on the left cutting back inside a shot from 20 yards out skipping along the floor, Ripton gets down sharply to get her body behind the ball, a quick turn around by Chelmsford the ball played through the middle James evading the challenge top of the area into the box left of goal her shot held by Pearce as she dives to her right. 

Into the final 10 minutes and Beccles have their first corner of the game from the right in near post both Vincent and Ottey get something on the ball as it is diverted across the opposition six yard box, Gannon the one running onto it to launch it to safety for Chelmsford. 

 PENALTY! Late in the game from a corner kick up the other end Chelmsford are awarded a penalty, the ball played in near post is touched on and cut out in the middle by a Beccles arm the referee pointing to the spot even as Caplin attempts to clear the ball. A pause before taking it as Caplin has hurt herself and after treatment on the pitch she can’t continue carried off Beccles are down to 10 no more substitutes available. Time to take the penalty Coe with the ball places it on the spot for Chelmsford, runs in strikes the ball, sending it to the keeper right, Pearce has guessed right and diving gets her fists to the ball to make the save send the ball out to her right as her team mates rush in to congratulate her.

Beccles Town Ladies goalkeeper, Chloe Pearce dives to her right to save the penalty

  The ball isn’t out of play however regained on the left swung back in Pearce marshals her defence quickly giving herself room to defend her near post punches the ball down out to Kelly who curls a shot back in the ball bouncing wide of goal. James with another shot across the face of goal as Beccles throw caution to the wind in the closing moments of the match but the visitors hold out comfortably in the finish to claim a narrow victory that sees them progress into next weekend First Round Qualifying tie at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies.

Full time Beccles Town Ladies 0-1 Chelmsford City Ladies

  A close match in the finish Chelmsford City Ladies finding a moment of magic early in the 2nd half to take the lead in the tie and claim the win. Beccles Town Ladies with a good showing in their debit in the FA Women’s Cup defended well on the whole, Pearce with vital saves, gave a good account of themselves and but for better finishing might well have been victorious themselves. Credit to Chelmsford City however James and Overall worked hard all game to find openings trying many thing’s not deterred combining for the winning goal. Know they will get better too. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, as ever a difficult one but one did stand out for me. Both sides contributing to an intriguing cup tie, Wilson and Vincent pairing up well at centre back for Beccles, Heaney with some excellent running in midfield too, Munday strong on the ball for Chelmsford, their attackers both did well and to that end have chosen Georgia James as she grew into the game and found room in the channels and ultimately set up the winning goal.

 I do love an FA Cup game, they can often throw up a surprise or two. Enjoyed my trip to Beccles despite the weather and my thanks to both the cricket club and football club for their help and hospitality today. I stayed dry that was a bonus. Best of luck to both clubs for the season ahead and thanks for the team details as ever.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 25/03/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th March

FA Women’s Cup

Charlton Athletic Women were the only side left from outside the FAWSL left in the FA Women’s Cup reaching the last 8 a great achievement for the side leading the FAWPL Southern Division going into the quarter final on Sunday up against 14 times winners of the FA Women’s Cup, Arsenal Women at Borehamwood. Postponed from last Sunday it was a special occasion for Charlton Athletic striker, Kit Graham making her 200th appearance for the club. A big test up against Arsenal the FAWSL club taking an early lead in the tie awarded a penalty in the 4th minute, Scottish International, Kim Little stepping up to score. Arsenal created further chances throughout the 2nd half Charlton working hard in defence keeping the score down to 1-0 at half-time.

  10 minutes into the 2nd half Arsenal doubled their lead Heather O’Reilly sending the ball home to make it 2-0 then 5 minutes later it was 3-0 to the hosts with Dutch International Vivianne Miedema scoring the goal. As Charlton Athletic began to tire towards the latter stages of the match Arsenal took advantage to further extend their lead in the final 5 minutes with England’s Danielle Carter and Jordan Nobbs both getting their names on the scoresheet to send Arsenal into the semi-finals. An away trip to Everton Ladies awaits on the 15th April with Chelsea Ladies at home to Manchester City Women in the other semi-final and for the 1st time in history both games will be shown live by the BBC.

FAWPL Cup

At last Coventry United Ladies got to play their semi-final in the FAWPL Cup on Sunday after several postponement due to the weather and other fixtures. A long trip up to Lancashire to play Northern Division side Blackburn Rovers Ladies the winner meeting Leicester City Women in the Final. Keeley Davies getting the goal to put Coventry United into a 1-0 half-time lead. A screamer into the top corner from Helen Dermody in the 2nd half doubling Coventry United’s lead before Saffron Jordan pulled a goal back for Blackburn Rovers with 20 minutes left. The host pushing hard for an equalising goal broke Coventry United’s resistance in stoppage time Jordan with her 2nd of the match to take the tie into extra-time. A tense half hour followed with neither side able to win the game in open play the tie heading to penalties, heartbreak for Coventry United joy for Blackburn Rovers as they won the shootout 3-2 to reach the FAWPL Cup Final.

FAWPL Southern Division

With Charlton Athletic Women in action in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was another opportunity for 2nd & 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies to move back above them at the top of the Southern Division table. Crystal Palace making to trip down south to play Portsmouth FC Ladies. The visitors celebrating an early goal and a fabulous milestone too for Crystal Palace’s Gemma Bryan as she scored her 100th goal for the club. 

   Ellie Bailes also on target in the 1st half to make it 2-0 to Crystal Palace who were awarded a penalty as the game closed in on the half hour, Bryan stepping up to score her 2nd of the match. 3-0 the advantage at half-time Crystal Palace made sure of the win extending their lead with 20 minutes left, Bryan going on to complete a hat-trick taking Crystal Palace back to the top of the Southern Division table.

C&K Basildon Ladies were also on the road travelling to Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies the 3rd placed side taking the lead with Paige Wakefield on target. 1-0 became 2-0 with Therese Addison putting the ball past the keeper. Cardiff City getting it back to 2-1 before the half-time whistle. A diving header from Angela Addison restored Basildon’s 2 goal lead. Again Cardiff City pulled a goal back to make it 3-2. Wakefield scoring her 2nd of the match to make it 4-2 and see Basildon win all 3 points taking them into 2nd position in the table. Sophie Thomas and Cori Williams scoring the goals for Cardiff City.

At home in the league for the 1st time since November, Chichester City Ladies were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies in the Southern Division this Sunday. The sides going in all square at the break a single goal was enough to secure all 3 points the goal for the hosts with Jess Lewry sending the ball into the back of the net on the hour to put Chichester City in front and seal the win.

Fourth placed Lewes FC Women were also finally back in league action after cup competitions had kept them busy since the end of November. At home were taking on Queens Park Rangers this Sunday. Chances not taken it looked as though the sides would be going in level at the break, Lewes breaking the deadlock with a minute of the first half left to play, Rebecca Carter with her 11th goal of the season. Danielle Lane doubling Lewes lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. The result made comfortable midway through the 2nd half as Sarah Kempson put the ball home to make it 3-0.

West Ham United Ladies excellent form in 2018 continues as they extend their unbeaten run to 9 games, a fourth straight win this Sunday away to bottom side Swindon Town Ladies. A narrow lead for the visitors at half-time Leanna Mabey with the goal. A blistering start to the 2nd half with youngster Kelly Wealthall netting with 22 seconds after kick-off to make it 2-0. Ellie Zoefpl scoring on 65 minutes to extend the lead to 3-0. Molly Clark then scoring to make it 4-0 her first goal for West Ham United. Weathall getting her 2nd of the game for a 5-0 lead with Zoefpl also getting her 2nd of the game in the final minute to see West Ham United win 6-0.

FAWPL South East Division One

Plenty of action too this Sunday in FAWPL South East Division One. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were a massive 16 points clear at the top of the table as they travelled to rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on Sunday the 4th placed side with plenty of games in hand could yet catch AFC Wimbledon if they could claim maximum points in the run in. Women’s Football East was there to see all the action and the full match report can be found under this post. A competitive and tense affair between two committed sides had a derby feel to the match neither wanting to give anything away led to few opportunities being created in the final third the sides going in all square at 0-0 at half time at Newport Pagnell FC.

Milton Keynes, Alice Hughes with AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield

The deadlock broken early in the 2nd half the high tempo pace of the 1st half continuing Milton Keynes broke the ball out to striker Heather McDonnell moving wide left good hold-up play drawing players towards her the cross whipped into the box found Kim Farrow running in on goal her header taking the ball wide of the keeper into the back of the net to make it 1-0 a goal on her debut for the club. Milton Keynes working hard at the back and midfield to keep AFC Wimbledon at bay the visitors pushing for an equaliser striker Caroline Bisson coming closest putting her header just wide of the near post. Milton Keynes winning the game 1-0 move up into 3rd position behind Leyton Orient WFC. AFC Wimbledon despite the set back remain 14 points clear at the top of the table.

 Leyton Orient WFC took all 3 points ta home on Sunday to climb above Ipswich Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Were hosting Norfolk side, Norwich City Ladies. Leyton Orient getting off to a fantastic start going 1-0 up inside the 1st minute top scorer Sophie Le Marchand on target. 10 minutes later Leyton Orient were presented with an opportunity to double their lead from the penalty spot Le Marchand stepping up to put the ball into the back of the net for 2-0. Le Marchand then completed a 1st half hat-trick with 4 minutes left to play to take her onto 22 goals for the season and see Leyton Orient leading 3-0. Norwich City pulled a goal back 7 minutes into the 2nd half Millie Daviss scoring to make it 3-1. On the hour Hayley Barton got on the scoresheet for Leyton Orient to see them lead 4-1 and go on to claim all 3 points.

  It was 5th versus 6th as Luton Town Ladies travelled to Cambridge United WFC on Sunday 2 points between the sides. Luton Town creating several chances in the first half but unable to breach the Cambridge United defence. The hosts continued to defend well 2nd half, going in front with Amber Cantwell scoring the goal it was enough for Cambridge United to win the match and as a result move above Luton Town into 5th position in the table.

The battle in mid-table looks incredibly close with Stevenage Ladies continuing their recent good form to close the gap to 6th placed Luton Town to just 2 points. Fresh from winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Stevenage were on the road at the weekend taking on bottom side, Haringey Borough Women. Leah Littlechild top scoring in the game got 4 more goals to her name taking her onto 14 for the season. Not quite enough to make her top scorer but amongst the contenders, Amy Makewell was also on target for a goal to take her also onto 14 but a brace from captain Donna McGuigan keeps her nose just in front with 15 so far this season. Goals to for midfielders, Chloe Gunn and Amy Josland along with an own goal to see Stevenage win 10-2. Shanice Nourrice and Jonea Peter on target with a goal each for Haringey. 

Actonians Ladies were back in league action for the 1st time in a month at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday. A goal from Alessandra Barreca late in the 1st half seeing Actonians leading 1-0 at the break. A close contest it wasn’t till the final 10 minutes before Actonians made their lead more secure Barreca on target for her 2nd went on to complete her hat-trick 3 minutes into stoppage time scoring from the penalty spot to take her onto 17 goals for the season.

 

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 18/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 18th February

FA Women’s Cup

 5th Round weekend in this season’s FA Women’s Cup 4 sides from the Southern Division left in the competition flying the flag for the FAWPL along with Northern Division side Leicester City Women away to FAWSL 2 side Durham FC Women. At least one Southern Division side would progress the the quarter finals with Charlton Athletic Women drawn away to Cardiff City Ladies whilst their were plum home draws for Sussex sides Chichester City Ladies and Lewes FC Women at home to the Merseyside giants Liverpool and Everton Ladies on Sunday a good crowd for both games too 1300 at Chichester City whilst at The Dripping Pan 975 turned out to watch Lewes take on Everton.

   In the 8th minute Chaney Boye-Hlaorkah struck to give Everton an early lead going on to score a 1st half hat-trick before being forced off with injury at half-time. Chloe Kelly also getting a goal in the 1st half to see Everton Ladies in control of the tie with a 4-0 lead. Lewes worked hard but could find no reply 2nd half Everton captain Danielle Turner extending the visitors lead in the 69th minute. The final score 6-0 with Megan Finnigan heading home from a corner in the final minute.

Chichester City kept their opponents from scoring for half an hour before Rinsola Babajide struck on 34 minutes to give the WSL 1 side the lead her 1st goal for the club since joining from Watford Ladies. 5 minutes later Ashley Hodson struck to double Liverpool’s lead. 2-0 at half-time Bethany England was on hand to put home the rebound from Caroline Weirs shot in the 47th minute to make it 3-0. Sadie Wilson-Blakely with some excellent saves to keep Liverpool from adding to their tally going through to the quarter finals with a 3-0 win.

Charlton Athletic Women travelled to Wales to take on Cardiff City Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup 5th Round, 2nd in the Southern Division were leading on 23 minutes Kit Graham scoring the goal. 6 minutes later Graham with her 2nd of the game doubled the visitors advantage then just 3 minutes later Charlotte Gurr found the back of the net to make it 3-0. That the half-time lead Cardiff came back into the game getting a goal back 10 minutes into the 2nd half, striking the crossbar, Charlton goalkeeper, Katie Startup with an excellent save to kept the score down to 3-1 whist chances came and went in the 2nd half. Charlton progressing the only FAWPL side left now into the last 8 with Arsenal Women, Chelsea Ladies, Manchester City Women, Sunderland AFC Ladies and Durham FC Women all progressing.

  The draw was make for the FA Women’s quarter-finals Monday morning live on radio the quarter finals scheduled to be played Sunday 18th March and are as follows:-

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Manchester City Women

Liverpool Ladies v Chelsea Ladies

Arsenal Women v Charlton Athletic Women

Durham FC Women v Everton Ladies 

FAWPL South East Division One

No action in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday their were 3 games played in South East Division One. League leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies were playing their last home match of the season against Norwich City Ladies. A tough test for the Norfolk side currently 2nd bottom in the table got off to a terrible start to an unfortunate own goal in the 3rd minute was quickly followed up by a goal for Wimbledon’s Laura Quinn-Low to make it 2-0 inside the 1st 5 minutes! Rebecca Sargent making it 3-0 to Wimbledon in the 15 minute. Norwich pulled it back to 3-1 with a strike from Aimee Durrant before a goal from Georgia Heasman saw the hosts into a 4-1 on the half hour. That the half-time score Katie Stanley scored early in the 2nd half to make it 5-1, Norwich with a quick reply from Jodie Drake scoring to make it 5-2. Caroline Bisson was introduced from the bench making her mark straight away to make it 6-2. Stanley with her 2nd of the game in the 70th minute Heasman rounding off an 8-2 win with a goal in the final couple of minutes. An 11 point lead at the top of the table now for Wimbledon who have 6 away games to play.

Actonians Ladies were final back in league action having not played in the South East Division One since the opening Sunday of 2018. Haven’t won since the 15 October having dropped down the table after a promising start. At home this Sunday to Enfield Town Ladies who they’d drawn with on that Sunday in January had a good 1st half the hosts leading 3-0 Carla Williams scoring a brace on 20 and 44 minutes with Alessandra Barreca getting a goal in between. Nuala McKevitt pulled a goal back for Enfield an hour into the game Actonians restoring their 3 goal lead quickly with Barreca getting her 2nd of the game. Lisa Kline getting it back to 4-2 for Enfield with 20 minutes left Actonians getting the 3 points with a 4-2 win.

 Plenty of goals at home for Stevenage Ladies as they won comfortably at home against bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday, 3 players grabbing themselves a hat-trick along the way, Nicole Emmings, Paige Logie and Amy Makewell, there was a goal to for Ellie Searle in a double figure win 10-0. Stevenage have games in hand on the sides above them and well clear of the bottom might fancy their chances of clinching a top half finish. 15 defeats now for Haringey at the bottom enduring a difficult season playing at a higher level having lost a few key players in close season a learning curve but will can only stick together will be stronger for it.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 04/02/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th February

FA Women’s Cup

 The 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday featuring 16 ties the last 32 in the competition with the sides from both FAWSL 1 & 2 entering at this stage. 8 ties featuring sides within the East or the leagues covered. FAWSL 2 sides Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were drawn at home against fellow FAWSL opposition. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies taking on 6 times FA Women’s Cup winners Doncaster Rovers Belles currently leading FAWSL 2 a 3-0 win for the visitors seeing Doncaster through to the 5th Round.

   Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were hosting the current FA Women’s Cup holders Manchester City Women a big test for Hope Powell’s side, a useful one too even though they exited the competition going out defeated 2-0. Watford Ladies from FAWSL 2 had also been handed a tough away tie in the FA Women’s Cup taking on Liverpool Ladies from FAWSL 1. A 5-0 win for the Merseyside club seeing Liverpool safely into the 5th Round.

 Elsewhere their were 5 sides from the FAWPL Southern Division competing in the FA Women’s Cup 4th Round. Cardiff City Ladies producing the upset of the round by knocking out FAWSL opposition. At home to Oxford United Women on Sunday. Held their higher league opponents to a goalless draw taking the tie into extra-time still neither side could break the stalemate the tie going all the way to a penalty shootout. Cardiff celebrating an historic victory taking the shootout 5-4 to reach the 5th Round.

   It wasn’t the only tie to go all the way to penalties as Southern Division side, Chichester City Ladies were away in the 4th Round up against, The New Saints Ladies, enjoying a good season so far 2nd in FAWPL Midlands Division One. Was a tight game between the two sides, The New Saints Ladies leading 1-0 at the break through an own goal from Chichester in the 32nd minute. Chichester City responded early in the 2nd half to level the scores, Cherelle Khassel putting the ball into the back of the net. That the way the score remained on 90 minutes the tie moving into extra-time no more goals seeing it head to penalties Chichester City the one’s celebrating as they went through to the 5th Round taking it 5-4.

 A tricky away trip too or Lewes FC Women on Sunday too in the 4th Round of the FA Women’s Cup taking on Keynsham Town Ladies from FAWPL South West Division One, in good form. Lewes playing a league higher are enjoying a good season themselves however and safely negotiated this potential banana skin. Amy Taylor giving the visitors the lead late in the 1st half. Georgia Bridges doubling the lead in the 2nd half as the game closed on the hour mark her strike quickly followed up by a goal from Sarah Kempson. Lewes into the 5th Round with a 3-0 win.

 For the 3rd successive cup match Charlton Athletic Women progressed with a win in extra-time. A long trip away in the FA Women’s Cup for the Southern Division leaders up against Northern Division side, Blackburn Rovers Ladies. A close match between the pair it was goalless after the 1st 45 minutes. Charlton  taking the lead early in the 2nd half courtesy of an own goal. The lead didn’t last long as Natasha Flint equalised for Blackburn Rovers. Mid-way through the 2nd half Charlton once again took the lead Charlotte Gurr making it 2-1 in the 73rd minute. Again Blackburn Rovers pulled it level, Flint with her 2nd of the game 9 minutes from time. 2-2 the final score after 90 minutes the tie heading in extra-time for the 3rd time in the game Charlton took the lead, Georgia Griffin scoring in the 1st period of extra-time, this time Charlton held on to claim the win and reach the last 16 of the FA Women’s Cup.

Coventry United Ladies were drawn away in the FA Women’s Cup, against FAWSL 2 opposition, Millwall Lionesses. Nothing new for the Southern Division side have claimed FAWSL scalps in the FA Women’s Cup in previous seasons. Were up against a Millwall Lionesses side in good form this time around however the hosts leading 2-0 at half-time. An early goal in the 2nd half putting Millwall in full control of the tie led 4-0 with 20 minutes left. Coventry were awarded a penalty with around 5 minutes left, Helen Dermody stepping up to score, Coventry exited the cup with a 4-1 defeat.

  The draw for the last 16 of the FA Women’s Cup was made on Monday with at least one FAWPL side guaranteed at place in the quarter finals with Cardiff City draw at home to Charlton. A couple of mouth watering home ties too for both Chichester City and Lewes as they meet Merseyside giants, Liverpool Ladies & Everton Ladies from FAWSL 1 respectfully.

The FA Women’s Cup 5th Round draw, ties to be played Sunday 18th February.

Arsenal Women v Millwall Lionesses

Cardiff City Ladies v Charlton Athletic Women

Lewes FC Women v Everton Ladies

Sunderland AFC Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

Chichester City Ladies v Liverpool Ladies

Birmingham City Ladies v Manchester City Women

Chelsea Ladies v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Durham Women FC v Plymouth Argyle Ladies or Leicester City Women 

FAWPL Southern Division

Three games in the FAWPL Southern Division this Sunday and with leaders Charlton involved in the FA Women’s Cup it was an opportunity for the sides placed 2nd and 3rd to close the gap at the top. Crystal Palace Ladies in 2nd level on points with 3rd placed C&K Basildon Ladies who defeated them 1-0 last time out. Looking to get back to winning ways Crystal Palace Ladies were on home soil taking on West Ham United Ladies the visitors buoyed by a 6-2 win away to Cardiff City Ladies last weekend. A tough game for both sides it was a frustrating afternoon for Crystal Palace, West Ham United picking up another valuable point as the sides drew 0-0. A further blow for Crystal Palace as they lost Nikita Whinnett to injury having to be stretched off early in the game. Women’s Football East wishes her all the best for a full and speedy recovery.

C&K Basildon weren’t taking anything for granted as they headed west on Sunday to play bottom side Swindon Town Ladies still without a single point on the board after 14 games. A tough season for Swindon so far are battling hard took the lead in the game Mia Mugford making it 1-0 in the 17th minute. C&K Basildon responded well coming back quickly to not only level the score but take a 2-1 lead into the half-time break, Angela Addison with both goals. Captain Zoe Rushen adding a 3rd goal in the 2nd half seeing Basildon to a 3-1 win that takes them up to 2nd in the Southern Division table 2 points behind leaders Charlton.

Queens Park Rangers Ladies were on home soil on Sunday hosting Portsmouth FC Ladies. 4 points from there last 2 matches Queens Park Rangers were looking to build to two good away performances with a result at home against mid-table Portsmouth, the sides drawing 0-0 at the half-time whistle. A single goal was enough to claim all 3 points in the 2nd half coming 15 minutes from time, it was the visitors celebrating as Katie James netting the winning goal for Portsmouth the win taking them above Chichester City into 6th spot.   

FAWPL South East Division One

The FAWPL South East Division One fixture list was hit by the weather 3 of the 5 scheduled games being postponed. Leyton Orient WFC 2nd in the table were looking to close a 5 point gap on leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies as they played host to 5th placed Luton Town Ladies. There title ambitions taking a big dent however as Luton came away with a very good result. Stephanie Gale giving the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead. Natasha Fensome making it 2-0 in the 2nd half before a screamer from Lisa Nixon made it 3-0. Joanne Rutherford then missed a penalty hitting the bar as Leyton Orient were reduced to 10. Fensome with her 2nd securing a 4-0 win, that moves Luton right onto the tails of the sides above them.

Ipswich Town Ladies saw their own title hopes take a dent last weekend away to Leyton Orient. This weekend they were back on home soil taking on Denham United Ladies. The home side 4th in the table going 1-0 up in the 12th minute, an own goal conceded by Denham. The visitors responded straight away getting level 3 minutes later Kayleigh Currivan on target with the goal. 7 minutes left in the 1st half and Ipswich regained the lead Miagh Downey getting the goal to make it 2-1. Denham were back level within 4 minutes of the 2nd half kicking off, Sophie Cheadle with the goal to make it 2-2. An hour on the clock and Ipswich were awarded a penalty, captain Amanda Crump stepping up to the spot put the ball home to make it 3-2. Ipswich kept it this time and went on to get a 2 goal cushion in the last 15 minutes, Zoe Cossey getting on the scoresheet. Just 6 point separating the sides positioned 2 to 5th in the South East Division One table now.