Category Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Milton Keynes Dons Women

Sunday 7th December

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading down into Suffolk this Sunday to catch some action from FAWNL South East Division One with AFC Sudbury Women hosting Milton Keynes Dons Women.

 Two clubs that unfortunately find themselves at the wrong end of the table a scrapping for points. AFC Sudbury Women in the bottom two with just the the single win and draw looking to finish the year on a positive note as they fight to retain their status in tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid. Milton Keynes Dons Women (MK Dons) just a place above Sudbury in 10th dropping back down into FAWNL Division One South East looking stabilise the ship avoid back to back relegations.

 AFC Sudbury Women going places in Suffolk joining forces with the men’s club with an academy building back up to become one of the leading women’s football clubs in the county, a rapid rise for their young guns winning back to back promotions in tier 6 and tier 5 to win promotion into the FAWNL. This their 3rd season playing tier 4 football surviving their debut season recruited some added experience to bolster the squad to enjoy their 2nd season recording a 7th spot finish last time out.

Have found thing’s much tougher going this time around, the league is ever strengthening and Sudbury are no fools know this are in some ways punching above their weight but with  healthy crop of young talent being developed with a Reserves and Development squad both playing in the Suffolk County leagues are fighting to retain their league status. Injuries haven’t helped, some long term, with key players missing at times, a single point on the board looks to be between themselves, Chesham United and MK Dons to avoid the drop but others could get pulled into the mix a vital win at home to Dulwich Hamlet giving them their 1st 3 points of the season 2 weeks ago. Faith Harrison and Amy-Leigh Abrehart the joint top scorers with 7 goals each, Harrison has now moved on to join Norwich City Women.

 MK Dons Women put alot of work into wining promotion to the FAWNL Southern Premier Division back in 2018, held their own finishing 9th in the seasons either side of the Covid pandemic. Built on that to achieve a 5th place finish in tier 3 in 2023, their highest league finish, backed that up with a 6th placed finish the year after. Thing’s turning sour however the club losing much of their 1st team and management staff to ambitious Real Bedford Women a dispute with the club in which direction they were going partly to blame.

 That saw the development squad having too step in to fill the void a tough ask and a tough season followed with the club picking up just a single point last time around to be relegated from the Southern Premier Division. A tough beginning this time around too, but positive signs the club is back behind the women’s team are playing their home games at Stadium MK, and within a great catchment area for footballing talent have brought in new players to bolster the squad, experienced goalkeeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford amongst the new recruits, have continued to be busy in that front throughout, Sophie Birkett, Paige Ridley, Afrika De Villiers and ex-Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison all coming through the door, Bianca Luttman and Erika Lempek two more useful additions to recently come in. Goals scattered amongst the squad no one has more than 2 to their name so far 7-0 home win to bottom side and local rival Chesham United pulling the club out of the bottom 3 know there’s alot of work to do to stay out of the bottom 2.

 The Elite Travel Stadium the venue to this afternoon’s match, knew it was going to be a wet one so had this fixture pencilled in, both teams finding a little form has become a 6 pointer based on the season so far. The ground building a new 3g pitch beside the carpark leading into the main stadium itself the bar open with the kitchen open inside serving hot food and drink. Plenty of cover before the clubhouse itself with the main seated stand beside, a terraced stand opposite with covered areas behind each goal the rain becoming heavy during the warm-up pre-match dull and overcast above with the sun fighting a lost cause the light poor as the teams walk out onto the pitch.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Megan Frary, Alex Penny, Sophie Jeffery, Sheryce Slater, Beatrice Rogers, Leonnie Bezant, Maisie Goodwin, Georgie Morton, Eva Frazzoni (C), Jessica Allen & Lucy Loomes. Subs – Amy-Leigh Abrehart, Megan Edwards, Kelsey Smith, Jade Barrett, Evie-Mai Harding & Isabella Peachy.

AFC Sudbury Women

Milton Keynes Dons Women starting XI – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Favour Omenazu (C), Alex O’Neill, Bianca Luttman, Paige Ridley, Afrika de Villiers, Amanda Chimbima, Giuseppina Carnevale, Molly Lemon, Erika Lempek & Maddie Pollard. Subs – Amber Tayler, Sophie Birkett, Amelie Sarll, Ruby Bishop-Jones, Sydney Wootton & Ronni Harrison.

MK Dons Women

 The rain easing slightly as the two sides walk out onto the pitch, but isn’t going to stay that way, Sudbury wearing their home colours, yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts to get the game underway kicking off first half, MK Dons lined up opposite in their away colours pink coloured shirts and socks with White shorts, white numbers on the back of the shirts too, not at all easy to read especially under the gloomy conditions, a challenge for sure! Sudbury send the ball forwards probing the MK Dons back line the visitors bringing it away getting straight on the move pushing players forwards.

 MK Dons bright at the start of the contest a diagonal ball into Erika Lempek on the right side as she looks to break forwards, Sophie Jeffery moving in to close her down for the hosts. The visitors closing the ball down in the middle, Arika De Villiers on for Amanda Chimbima carries the ball to the left before being brought down awarded the free-kick. From a deep position on the left the set-piece is fired on into the area through the crowd bouncing on towards goalkeeper, Megan Frary, MK Dons players racing in to chase it down, even as the keeper goes to claim it an outstretched foot prodding the ball past her on into the back of the net but even before the visitors can celebrate the goal is ruled out for a foul on the keeper!

  MK Dons lively in the opening exchanges Sudbury exposed a little at the back Lempek seeing the ball into her feet wide right, drawing the foul from Jessica Allen seeing the visitors winning another free-kick out in a similar position only on the opposite side of the pitch to the previous delivery. Paige Ridley over the ball puts her foot through it lifting a hanging ball into the mix top of the area, rising to head the ball goal wards looming in over the keeper, MK Dons are frustrated yet again as a another goal is disallowed an infringement in the build up to the goal.

 Sudbury finding themselves on the back foot the ball in the back of their net twice in the opening 6 minutes, saved by the referees whistle. Giuseppina Carnevale on the ball for MK Dons coming inside from the left lifting a cross field ball into Lempek bursting down the right wing, Jeffery diving in to make the tackle send the ball out of pay for a throw. Lempek finding space on the right flagged offside as MK Dons regain possession in the middle. Carnevale inside from the left whipping a cross into towards Maddie Pollard central, Maisie Goodwin cutting the pass out for Sudbury the ball loose running into the path of Chimbima 25 yards out, goes to strike the ball, loops up and over, a nick off a Sudbury player spotted a corner kick awarded.

Sudbury midfielder, Maisie Goodwin

  The corner dealt with Sudbury look to try and get a foothold in the game Jeffery on the left bringing the ball on from the back lifting it on for Allen ahead of her giving chase, MK Dons’ captain, Favour Omenazu at full back getting across her to defend for the visitors. The rain falling heavily now. Alex Penny on the right putting the ball on for Lucy Loomes in attack for Sudbury turns the pass on for Allen inside the box, Omenazu tracking across her box with her, getting her body in the way to see the ball out safely for a goal kick.

Amanda Chimbima

  Allen and Omenazu enjoying a good tussle as Sudbury look to get the ball into Allen’s feet on the left, she in turn trying to turn in behind. Molly Lemon passing the ball to Chimbima as MK Dons push on through the middle the probing ball sent out into the right flank for Lempek to attack, Jeffery diving in to see the ball out of play. The hosts not pleased with some of the decisions on the pitch players holding onto each other as Leonnie Bezant and Georgie Morton look to spur Sudbury on through the middle, the free-kick going their way, from halfway the ball lifted up to the top of the area, Chimbima heading clear for the visitors.

  Beatrice Rogers intercepting a diagonal ball at the back for Sudbury carries it forwards into the left wing sending it on for Allen in attack, holds off the challenge from Omenazu as Jeffery bombs on past her on the overlap taking the ball on into the corner wrapping her leg around it to flash a cross into the six yard box, Jamie-Lee Bamford alert first to it grabbing hold of the ball confidently even as Sudbury captain Eva Frazzoni makes a central run to attack.

MK Dons goalkeeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford

  Chimbima driving on through the middle with the ball sends in to Lempek on the right with space to run into checks back inside as Jeffery closes her down firing a cross into the box, Pollard, Lemon and Carnevale far side all racing on towards goal, the cross dissects all three, Sudbury get it away to safety. Midway through the first half and the game has settled down, Sudbury under the cosh early on more even now allowed more time on the ball, Allen seeing the ball into her feet on the left squaring it inside for Loomes, tries to see it onto Frazzoni, Bianca Luttman stretching out a leg to cut the pass out for the visitors.

Molly Lemon

 Lemon seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out back to goal for MK Dons lays it back to Chimbima who plays it to Carnevale on the left inside 30 yards out goes for the strike her effort whistling wide of the near post. Sudbury regaining the ball centrally looking to turn play around quickly Bezant into Frazzoni launches it forwards, Looms her target, Luttman stooping into the header to clear for MK Dons. MK Dons attack with Lemon through the middle has Chimbima up with her, Goodwin snapping in to challenge Lemon. Chimbima getting hold of the loose ball releasing it to the right on for Lempek, a little too long Jeffery can get hold of it for Sudbury, given away however, Lempek racing onto the ball firing a a cross to Pollard at the near post, Rogers their first to clear for the hosts.

Beatrice Rogers

  Sudbury press players on looking to push the MK Dons defence back Morton out to Frazzoni  crossed back inside the Loomes outside the box, Luttman in to clear for MK Dons drops to Jeffery unmarked outside the area central goes to hit it on the volley doesn’t get the connection she was looking for. Jeffery racing up on the left to support Allen gets in a tangle with Omenazu as she looks to get inside her the free-kick awarded as both players go down, the Sudbury bench incensed as the decision goes against them. 

Lucy Loomes

 Sudbury build an attack Bezant on for Goodwin central, has Jeffery up on the left picks her out the ball turned back in central Frazzoni’s touch sending it into Loomes inside the area goes to shoot he target the top right corner, the ball just swerving away from the target wide. Sudbury pressing on over commit as the ball is lost in the middle De Villiers sending it forward for Pollard in attack, Jeffery getting back on her to get a foot on the ball divert it back to her keeper to kick clear.

Sophie Jeffery

  Omenazu getting there ahead of Allen to win the ball out wide as Morton links up with Frazzoni through the middle for Sudbury. Goodwin lunging down to cut the ball out top of the area for Sudbury as Lemon attempts to put Pollard in on goal. MK Dons turn to show their frustration with the officials as Lempek is flagged offside on the right claiming the ball deflected off a defenders leg into her path. Omenazu and Allen continuing their battle the defender pressed up high on Allen nicks the ball to send a hanging cross into the box, claimed well by Frary.

  GOAL! The visitors break the dead lock with 7 minutes left on the clock in the first half attacking down the left, Carnevale up with Lemon and Chimbima exchanging passes before a pass is driven low into Pollard’s feet positioned left of the D, a good touch to turn her marker break into the box giving her a half yard to sent in a strike on the angle past the on rushing keeper before she can set herself on on into the bottom corner 0-1. 

Maddie Pollard opens the scoring for MK Dons

A blow for Sudbury late in the half, look to mount an attack through the middle on for Morton, has Loomes up with her the pass cut out by Luttman for MK Dons turns the ball back to her keeper for Bamford to clear. Goodwin angles a pass into Frazzoni on the right, O’Neill lunging in with the challenge to deny her the cross for the visitors. Sudbury gaining a free-kick wide on the left, Jeffery to send the ball into the area, plenty back for MK Dons, De Villiers heading the ball clear. 

 Certainly no quarter given by either side some robust challenges out there. Loomes giving Ridley a hard time as she goes up to head the ball to safety, Morton tussling with Chimbima, for the most part both sides getting on with it however. Decisions continue to wind both side up the weather remaining awful. Penny taking the ball on right side for Sudbury, Frazzoni ahead of her, Luttman stepping out from the back to halt her run. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the half, Slater dealing with an awkward high ball clipped in from the left by Carnevale. 

 A throw high on the left for the visitors sees a dangerous cross fired in across goal, Chimbima rushing in far post going to attack it can’t get a telling touch the ball wide. Allen left side getting the ball into Jeffery as she rushes on to provide the overlap, Omenazu going with her as they both close down on the left side of the box, fighting each other to get to the ball, Bamford not waiting to see who the winner is comes racing out sliding in to get the ball away from danger. A last gaps free-kick awarded to Sudbury as Lempek fouls Frazzoni on the left the ball crossed into the area long cleared by O’Neill.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-1 Milton Keynes Dons Women

 MK Dons head into the changing rooms a goal to the good at the break, Maddie Pollard scoring late into the first half with a well worked finish to put her side ahead. The visitors making a fast start seeing two goals chalked off in the opening 6 minutes. Both sides feeling aggrieved with some decisions but Sudbury weren’t firing on all cylinders can count themselves lucky to only be a goal down and have work to doo if they are to get back into the game 2nd half. Tense as you’d expect with a game between two of the bottom sides looking for every point they can. Still very much all to play for in the 2nd half.

 Sudbury making a double change at the start of the 2nd half bringing off, Beatrice Rogers at the back and Lucy Loomes up top to be replaced by Jade Barrett and Amy-Leigh Abrehart.

Jade Barrett and Amy-Leigh Abrehart coming on for Sudbury at the start of the 2nd half.

MK Dons unchanged as they line up to kick-off the 2nd half clearly determined to press the ball right from the off…

MK Dons lined up to attack in the 2nd half

 The ball launched forwards into the ball lifted into the left channel, Penny under it to clear for Sudbury the hosts look to get on the attack the ball on up to Morton finds Allen wide her looping cross into the six yard both plucked down well by Bamford rising at her far post. A few positional changes for Sudbury too who like their players to be adept in a number of roles, Abrehart dispossessing the defence on the right, frustrated as the decision goes against her. Undeterred however she intercepts the ball again as a pass into Allen up top almost sees her send Frazzoni through on goal but for a timely tackle from Ridley.

MK Dons defender, Paige Ridley

 

  Luttman cutting out a diagonal ball intended for Allen, plays it forwards into Chimbima who launches a counter attack the ball fed on for Lemon, deflected on through to the keeper. Omenazu is fouled centrally as she looks to carry the ball forwards for MK Dons. Sudbury performing better in the 2nd half taking the game to MK Dons a free-kick won Bezant playing it up to Allen on the right making a run into the box Bamford across diving but can let it go out of play for the goal kick.

 GOAL! 5 minutes gone in the 2nd period Sudbury winning the ball higher getting players further on, Bezant with the ball at her feet central feeding in on for Goodwin before racing past her to get into the box, Goodwin picking out Frazzoni right of the D 20 yards out has Morton ahead of her the ball played into her feet lays it on into the box picking out Bezant who steals in behind the defence to shoot low across the keeper and score 1-1.

Leonnie Bezant equalising for Sudbury

Sudbury back on level terms early in the 2nd half. Great build up play leading to their equaliser. Omenazu putting in a robust challenge on Abrehart top of the D as Morton feeds the ball into her feet. MK Dons come right, De Villiers picking out Lempek her early delivery into the box headed clear by Barrett. Luttman lifting a long ball on into Chimbima breaking into space on the left the angle against her the cross/shot swerving into the side netting, Sudbury amazed as a corner is awarded against them.

Captains, Favour Omenazu and Eva Frazzoni

 The corner swung into the box from the left across the six yard box headed firmly away by Barrett, helped on up the left flank Abrehart looks to race on with the ball, Bamford comes racing out of her box to try and get there first doesn’t do enough as Abrehart pulls away wide looking to get a shot away even as Bamford looks to recover her attempt fired wide at the near post. 

Jade Barrett

 Frazzoni pressing the ball forcing a throw deep in the corner on the right, Morton linking up with Penny off the throw forcing a 2nd, applying good pressure looking to stretch the game. Omenazu winning the ball on the right for MK Dons carries it forwards into space driving on no challenge is encouraged to shoot on the run from outside the area her attempt over wide across goal. O’Neill cutting a long pass up too Allen on the right out as Barrett clears at the back for the hosts. 

Afrika De Villiers

 Both sides playing some probing passes forwards the space the MK Dons midfielders had in the first half gone as they are pushed back with Sudbury pushing players on, Bezant and Goodwin winning it well looking for Morton who can turn on the ball has options ahead of her with Abrehart, Frazzoni and Allen. Luttman throwing out a leg to deny Allen the ball. Bezant playing the ball on through the left channel for Abrehart looking to get into the area the pass a little too strong allowing Bamford to claim.

  When you’re at the bottom of the table it certainly fees like every decision is against you and Sudbury are certainly frustrated. Omenazu is unyielding in defence and a hard player to get past, Abrehart looking to test her. O’Neill sweeping a cross into the area from deep on the left for MK Dons, Barrett up again to win the header for the hosts. Allen going down off the ball after feeling the effects of a coming together as pause in play, the trainer on doesn’t look good needs to come off, Sudbury sending on Megan Edwards.

 Sudbury looking the more likely to score as MK Dons struggle to get the ball up into their attackers 2nd half, Barrett winning the ball flung into the area, getting dark with the overcast sky, good job the floodlights are on. Morton seeing the ball into her feet rolling her marker to send the ball into Bezant wide right her cross put behind.

Georgie Morton

 Morton bringing the ball on in the final 3rd for the hosts laying it on for Abrehart to the right, De Villiers getting back at her to close the ball down for MK Dons. Frazzoni getting a shot away from the left of the D, squeezed through on goal however straight at Bamford who sees it all the way. Lemon getting on with the ball for MK Dons linking up with Pollard she shot intercepted by Slater deflected off the defenders head wide of goal.

Bianca Luttman

  Chimbima hasn’t seen as much of the ball in the 2nd half for MK Dons getting a chance to run at the area, has Lemon up with her, Bezant snapping in with a challenge, backed up by Goodwin the ball cleared. The game stretched Sudbury launch a counter the ball fired on through the middle into Edwards up top, Ridley getting a foot in before she can turn, Abrehart running onto the loose ball shooting from range drops wide of the left post.

  Chimbima coming on with the ball on MK Dons left has De Villiers up with her sending the ball on for her teammate her cross his cleared inside the box by Sudbury’s Slater. De Villiers with a nice drag back on the ball 30 yards out to give herself space to pick a pass has Omenazu pushing on right side the ball rolled into her path 25 yards out sends her strike wide of the right post. 

A free-kick to Sudbury awarded outside the box as Ridley hauled down Abrehart. The attacker picking herself up to take it 20 out goes for goal gets under the ball scooping it high over the target. MK Dons making a change bringing De Villiers off, on comes Amelie Sarll. Sudbury frustrated with thing’s decisions going against them MK Dons scrapping for the ball. Another switch for the visitors with Chimbima giving way for Sophie Birkett in midfield. Goodwin looking to release Frazzoni deep on the right, Luttman lunging in to send the ball out for a throw. From that position the cross is worked into the area the ball knocked down back across goal, dropping for Frazzoni at the near post, before she can get her shot away,, a defender runs across her to snatch the ball clear.

 Goodwin shown a yellow card play brought back after no advantage for MK Dons another frustrating decision for Sudbury an opportunity for MK Dons to push players up into an attacking position as the ball comes into the area from deep on the left curled across to the far post an MK Dons attacker running onto the ball shoots, Frary with an instinctive save with her leg as she goes to ground the ball loose rolling to her right dives throwing out an arm to claim it even as Omenazu races in to strike it goal wards, the referee blowing up it won’t count the keeper had enough of the ball, hurt in the process play stopped so she can receive treatment. 

 Is up on her feet okay as the game moves into the final 5 minutes Morton taking the ball on for Sudbury fed on for Edwards up top pressing the centre back to play the ball back to her keeper the clearance falling straight to Abrehart 30 yards out lining up the shot her attempt narrowly wide of the right post. Sudbury pushing a late goal themselves Edwards upended b Omenazu. The free-kick cleared by Lemon. Omenazu bringing the ball on right her diagonal pass won by Slater inside her D, tries to get it up to Abrehart quickly as she looks to turn the defence, Ridley keeping her off the ball. 

Sudbury goalkeeper, Megan Frary

 MK Dons defence under pressure late in the game. Luttman with a good interception as Edwards looks for Frazzoni on the right. Morton tries to pick out Edwards left channel run, Omenazu stretching out a leg to win the ball back. Sudbury winning a corner out on the right curled into the six yard box, Omenazu up to head the ball away for the visitors. MK Dons counter, up to Lempek through the middle tries too send the ball on for Pollard running in behind, Frary out of her area to clear the ball. 

Erika Lempek

Lempek out on the left lifting a ball in central, the shot blocked by a defender rebounding up to strike Barrett on the back off the head, goes down, the loose ball sliced wide before player is stopped so she can receive treatment. 3 minutes left little tie for either side to try and claim a winning goal, scrappy both sides complaining Morton gets hold of the ball on the right for Sudbury sent on up the line for Abrehart controls on the by-line looks to jink her way past Luttman into the box the defender stays big blocks the attacker, the free-kick awarded just outside the area. The dead ball flashed in across goal, Bamford up amongst bodies to punch it out of her area retrieved high on the left, floated back into the box, threatening to drop under the bar awkward for Bamford stretching for it doesn’t get hold of it as it bounces down in front of goal but is quick to snatch it back into her gloves before another can pounce.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 1-1 Milton Keynes Dons Women

 The final whistle blows and both sides have to settle for a share of the points, Sudbury remain in the bottom 2, 3 points off safety, not closing the gap on MK Dons but other results keep others in range. A tale of two halves, the first belonging to MK Dons got on the front foot with some strong midfield runs seeing two early goals disallowed, before taking the lead late in the half. Sudbury needing to change things didn’t perform in the first 45 lucky to only be a goal down, the changes worked the hosts much improved 2nd half a well worked goal to equalise pushed hard for a 2nd while MK Dons too came close to snatching it at the end, both will feel frustrated with decisions but on the balance of play a point each a fair outcome. 4 points from their last 3 league games to end 2025 is something positive to build on for Sudbury going into the new year. MK Dons have one more game to play in 2025 a difficult game away to QPR but after a difficult period for the club they may at last be turning a corner.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, is another tough one a few contenders on both sides. A few performances to mention. Firstly for MK Dons, Amanda Chimbima made several driving runs on the ball especially first half to keep her side on the front foot bringing others onto play. Bianca Luttman made some vital interceptions at the back, Erika Lempek provided a good option out wide in attack, captain, Favour Omenazu was strong in her tackling hard to shake off and frustrated her opponents. For Sudbury, Leonnie Bezant won the ball well and got on well to score the crucial equaliser. Maisie Goodwin too with some vital tackling in front of the defence. Captain Eva Frazzoni covered the ground getting into some useful positions used the ball well. Jade Barrett came into the back line and won everything launched into the box, Amy-Leigh Abrehart took the game to her opponents keeping Sudbury on the front foot. The award goes to Georgie Morton found some good pockets of space throughout linking up with the attack coming into her own 2nd half winning the ball high keeping it and releasing those ahead of her.

 Good to catch up with both clubs, especially MK Dons haven’t seen them since the loss of their previous side and good to see them recovering and in a healthy shape. The league is as competitive as any be it top or bottom. My thanks for all the assistance today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 24th August

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading to St Neots this Sunday for my first slice of FAWNL action of the season, from South East Division One, representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid with Cambridge United WFC hosting newly promoted, Luton Town Ladies.

 The FAWNL, growing year on year and the pressure on the clubs to compete and grow within it getting stronger as the FA looks to push for clubs further down the pyramid to strengthen their women’s sections the ultimate aim to get clubs within tiers 3 and 4 of the game to take on a fully professional model. I think we’re a few years off that especially tier 4 but no doubt it’s ever more competitive.

 Cambridge United WFC are one of the stalwarts of tier 4, playing in the league way back in the old Combination league days right up to the FAWNL as it is now, would dearly love to win promotion and get into tier 3 and in recent seasons have garnered closer links with Cambridge United FC themselves, creating a women’s board at the club. A new era for Cambridge United WFC with the departure of manager, Darren Marjoram after 4 season’s in charge. Also departing the club Liz Pamplin with 25 years service as player and coach and everything else, a big miss, but remains on the women’s board. Sean Greygoose taking over as 1st team manager, having been looking after the U18s side previously along with a spell as assistant coach under different management, is joined by coaches Ben Yeomans and Sam Carrington in the dugout.

 A new era, but a relatively stable base to build on, several player departures over the close season, but so too new arrivals brought in a busy summer of recruitment within the club as they prepare for a new season. Midfielder, Zoe Wood returns to the club after a season out during her pregnancy. With another 7 new faces joining the squad. Full back, Lauren Tomlinson joining after a couple of season’s with league rivals Norwich City Women, Shannon Shaw to joining Tomlinson from Norwich both proving themselves at the top end of the league looknig to propel Cambridge forwards. Defender, Tally Miles joining Cambridge having previously played for Royston Town Women and MK Dons Women. Josie Jarvis has been playing her football out in the states for the past 4 seasons. With a trio of players joining from Northampton Town Women who finished 2nd in Midlands Division One last season, largely helped by the goal scoring prowess of Kim Farrow and Jade Bell scoring 53 goals between them, Farrow, with experience too playing for MK Dons netting 17 goals with Bell who had a brief spell at Cambridge before, netting 36! Mia Richards also joining from Northampton scoring twice in Cambridge’s final pre-season game with Billericay. Retain the services of last season’s top scorer, Bella Simmons who scored 14 goals, a 9th place finish last time out but clinched silverware winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Luton Town Ladies are back in the FAWNL, winning the double in the ERWFL to clinch promotion after a 6 season absence. With a single promotion spot available in the ERWFL  getting out of the league takes alot of effort, Luton building momentum over the past couple of season’s enjoying some great runs in the FA Women’s Cup along the way, easing their way too top spot in the finish winning 20 of their 22 matches played as well as clinching the League Cup. That success to a large degree helped by Natasha Fensome’s goals netting 32 last season, Luton retaining hr services as they return to the FAWNL.

Haven’t sat on their laurels either, FAWNL South East Division One a much different and far more competitive league to the one they left behind have been busy off the pitch with player recruitment bringing in 11 new signings to compete at this level and have brought in 11 new faces many with useful experience playing at this level. Striker, Amy McLean their first signing joining from Bedfordshire rivals Real Bedford Women, Emily Wilson previously with Luton’s U18s also re-joining the club from Real Bedford. Summer Gayle also added to the attacking options coming in from Ashford Town. Taylor O’Leary is a midfielder with a wealth of experience to enhance the squad. Another midfielder moving to Luton is Janaye Beaufort. Ellie Sergeant is another player returning to Luton. Goalkeeper, Nicole Mulling was at QPR for the past 2 season’s. Another player joining from QPR with plenty of FAWNL experience is Courtnay Ward-Chambers. Sasha Smith and Kiyana Fryer both join Luton from Chesham United Women. Defender, Lisa Milliken another departing Northampton this summer.

Plenty of new faces brought in by both clubs will take time to settle, whether the league fixtures allow it is another matter, Luton nevertheless hitting the ground running with 2 wins from 2 to start the season, 3-1 at home to Dulwich Hamlet Women in the league on the opening day followed by a good win at home in the League Cup group stage against Spurs Women Academy. Cambridge in contrast suffering two narrow defeats losing 2-1 away to newly promoted Fulham on the opening day conceding in the final 10 minutes there conceded in the 97th minute at home in their League Cup Group game against tier 3 side Real Bedford Women.

The way in to St Neots ever changing with a massive amount of development taking place on the infrastructure and road network leading into the town. Cambridge United WFC continuing to call the Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC home, however once again have number of games planned at The Abbey Stadium, home of Cambridge United FC. Situated in the heart of a built up area, the main stadium with a grass pitch a seated stand on one side, an artificial playing pitch beside. Standing viewing all round, the kitchen hatch open at long last serving hot food and drinks. A hot and sunny day for the summer bank holiday, although a covering of cloud kept the temperature pleasant if a little muggy.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Abbie Jackson, Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood (C), Mia Richards, Kim Farrow, Jade Bell & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Tally Miles, Alysha Stojko-Down, Becca Stephenson & Ella Marden.

Cambridge United WFC

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith, Fiona Buttigieg, Nicole Farmer, Elizabeth Mulvaney, Janaye Beaufort, Shianne Swarres (C), Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Taylor O’Leary, Shanice Lewis & Natasha Fensome. Subs – Sarah Hudson, Kiyana Fryer, Lisa Milliken, Amber Leighton, Summer Gayle, Emily Wilson & Ami Martins.

Luton Town Ladies

Teams in the FAWNL allowed to name 7 on the bench this season, able to use 5. Both sides with a rarity able to name back up goalkeeper on the bench and both clubs have strong competition in that department. New signings, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Mia Richards, Kim Farrow & Jade Bell starting for Cambridge with Zoe Wood the new captain this season. Likewise Luton’s starting XI full of new recruits with Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith. Janaye Beaufort, Courtnay Ward-Chambers and Taylor O’Leary all on from the start.

Captain’s Shianne Swarres and Zoe Wood with today’s match officials

 It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Luton lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with white sleeves, orange shorts and white socks. The ball put back into the middle, fired long into the left channel for Mia Richards racing forwards, Sasha Smith at the back for Luton dealing with the threat.

Luton’s Sasha Smith

 The ball out for a throw, Cambridge looking to press high early on getting players up around the ball. Forcing another throw Cambridge work the ball up the line Lauren Tomlinson up the pitch with Richards the cross lopped up into the six yard box, Fiona Buttigieg under it for Luton heading behind for a corner on the left. Swept in with pace through the six yard box an inviting delivery cleared beyond the far post, Luton look to mount a counter attack the ball driven into the middle but find no way through.

  Competitive in the middle of the park, Luton captain, Shianne Swarres linking up with Taylor O’Leary on half way the ball clipped on the diagonal out into the right wing for Shanice Lewis to attack, Tomlinson across to close her down defending playing the ball off the attacker behind for a goal kick.

Cambridge’s Lauren Tomlinson

 Players getting stuck in Buttigieg winning it at the back on the left putting it forwards onto Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Sammy Edgar coming back at her to close the ball down stealing it as the pair come together, sends it forwards even as Ward-Chambers goes to ground, Luton appealing for the foul don’t get the decision, Ward-Chambers saying something she shouldn’t the referee close by, blowing up straight away, no hesitation showing Ward-Chambers a straight red sent off for dissent with just 5 minutes on the clock, Luton down to 10.

Courtnay Ward-Chambers shown an early red card for Luton

  Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the right launched long into the far post area, Nicole Melling coming for it making a good claim high in the air. Jade Bell lively up top for Cambridge getting into the channels looknig for the ball, snapping in to press the defence, taking it on from Kim Farrow central attempts to slide the ball in behind the Luton defence for Mollie Coupar, Melling alert to the danger quickly out to the top of her box to close her down clear the ball away to the right. 

Luton goalkeeper, Nicole Melling

 Luton hit Cambridge on the counter attack the long cross field ball deceiving a high back line with Natasha Fensome making a perfectly timed run through the middle coming right, goalkeeper Sophie Shults racing out of her area to try and close her down. Fensome thrives on these situations knocks it past the keeper getting in behind lining up a shot back across goal from 20 yards out the Cambridge defence racing back round on the cover, Tomlinson throwing herself to the ground to slice in make the block divert the ball away from goal. 

Natasha Fensome

  Edgar battling for possession in the middle for Cambridge congested at times, does well to squeeze the ball into Richards drifting in from the left, takes on the shot from range, her effort driven wide of the right post. Cambridge pushing players on Jarvis taking the ball on up the right sending the pass into Bell cuts inside to shoot from the angle 20 yards out with the outside of her boot flashed in low on goal, Melling down smartly getting behind it to knock the ball wide across her goal out the far side for a corner on the left. 

 Cambridge sending in another dangerous delivery from the corner through the six yard box missing everyone, Luton snatching it away at the far post falls to Edgar top of the area strikes it on the half volley, flies up over the bar, however a corner is signalled taking a nick on it’s way through. Curled into the far post, O’Leary getting up to defend for Luton away for a throw in the corner high on the left. I’ve undoubtedly mentioned this before but Tomlinson does possess a very useful long throw, often a bane for United especially wearing a City shirt, will be a huge asset now, flung into the near post cleared to the top of the area, Bell latching onto it shifting to her right pulls the trigger her shot charged down, the ball deflected out to the right Wood gathering looknig to drive to the by-line, Buttigieg closing her down for Luton winning a goal kick off the Cambridge captain.

Luton defender, Fiona Buttigieg

  Luton looking to keep things tight at the back dropping off, but alert to the counter timing their opportunities to get forwards, Janaye Beaufort threading a great pass on through the middle for Lewis to chase, Tomlinson going back with her getting across her well to shield the ball back into her keepers gloves. Brook Cheal-Ferris, intercepting well at the back for Cambridge as Beaufort attempts another through ball on for Fensome central.

Luton captain, Shianne Swarres

  Cambridge looking to use their player advantage Tomlinson getting on up the left on for Bell, plays it inside to Wood, cut out by Swarres, Luton look to counter attack, O’Leary up to Fensome, Cheal-Ferris across to defend for the hosts. Richards with a shot from range blasted over a Farrow knocks the ball down into her path.

Cambridge’s Brook Cheal-Ferris

 GOAL! Closing in on the 20 minute mark, Cheal-Ferris bringing the ball on from thee back for Cambridge sending it up the wing for Tomlinson the full back keeping the ball in play racing with it up the line before whipping in a threatening ball into the six yard box, on a plate for Farrow closing in centrally, nods it down across the keeper at close range to open the scoring. 1-0.

Kim Farrow meeting Lauren Tomlinson’s cross to put Cambridge into the lead

  Luton fighting for the ball, O’Leary with a strong tackle on Edgar, as she looks to get the ball away up the left. Smith in well to close Richards down as she looks to get the ball under control wide left. Edgar feeling her backside, needs treatment, the referee pausing play for both sides to take on fluids. Cambridge lively looking to push on Tomlinson and Jarvis up on the flanks, Bell coming to receive the ball, linking up with Farrow, Richards and Coupar. Luton trying to counter by slowing play down trying to keep hold of it doing well duping Cambridge into forcing the final pass.

Kim Farrow

Josie Jarvis getting forwards for Cambridge

 Wood drifting out to the right with Bell the cross put long across the Luton are, Richards trying to keep it alive on the by-line, Smith in to close her down winning the tackle. Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the left Cheal-Ferris high into the area, headed away, Luton look to come the other way, Lewis getting onto the ball driving through the middle, the Cambridge defence converging on her en masse no way through. 

   Lewis making herself available for the pass on Luton right, looking to take the ball on, Tomlinson in to defend for Cambridge. Jackson sending Jarvis away on Cambridge’s right plays the ball on for Bell up the line her angled cross coming in high at the near post plucked down well by Melling. Luton’s Beaufort winning her fair share of the ball central lifts it on for O’Leary outside the D, a click flick lifting  ball over defenders into Fensome making a run in behind, Cambridge have players back on the cover, the pass cut out runs back to O’Leary 20 out puts her foot throw the ball, Jackson turning to block, strikes the defender, Luton appeal for a handball but Jackson had her back to the ball arms by her side the referee not giving it if indeed the arm was struck.

  Closing in on the last 10 minutes of the first half, Jackson coming to close down Swarres on half way, the ball does strike her hand this time as the midfielder attempts to scoop the ball over her the free-kick given this time. The ball launched up into the top of the area it’s Jackson with the header away to the left, Buttigieg meeting it on the volley outside the area, fired back across the goal wide past the far post.

  Luton working hard gaining a little momentum going forwards, O’Leary cutting the ball out sending a diagonal ball out to the left, Buttigieg getting forwards to knock the ball on into the area Fensome making a run to the near post to attack it, Jackson throwing herself in front of her to make the block, the ball turned away for a throw on the left. The visitors growing frustrated with some on field decisions, as Cambridge clear at the back Jackson with the long clearance up into Farrow charging into the area left of the D, doesn’t quite get hold of her shot as she goes to place it past the keeper into the bottom corner, Melling gathering it safely into her gloves. 

 GOAL! Cambridge winning the ball well in the middle, Edgar playing a great ball long up into the path of Richards coming into the area from the left, looking to meet the ball as it falls into her path, the keeper starts to come, Richards catching it sweetly to lift the ball up over the keeper and down into the back of the net beyond to double Cambridge’s lead late in the first half 2-0.

Mia Richards doubling Cambridge’s lead

Midfielder, Sammy Edgar with the assist

GOAL! No sooner have they gotten their 2nd goal then Cambridge grab a 3rd, the attack pressing the ball in defence outside the D, Luton loosing possession as Bell steals in on the ball with the keeper, pushed up to the top of her area, takes it away to the right giving herself a yard of space to tee up  shot into the open goal beyond to open her account for Cambridge 3-0.

Jade Bell with Cambridge’s 3rd goal opening her account for the season.

 Melling hurt in the build up to the goal needing treatment, Luton conceding twice late in the first half deflated. Jarvis slides in to defend on Fensome as she moves to the left looknig to get after a pass laid on by Beaufort. Cambridge winning a corner on the right curled in central on the keeper, Melling getting her arm up to punch the ball on across her goal out behind on the left for a 2nd corner. Swept in high to the far post, Buttigieg getting it away. 

 Bell seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right side sending the ball on for Wood on the overlap her low cross claimed by Melling low at her near post. Into the final moments of the half Cambridge getting up the pitch, Wood into Coupar right of goal 20 out Bell close by put into her feet Bell returns the pass Coupar screwing her shot wide of the upright.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Luton Town Ladies

  Cambridge taking full advantage of their opponents player disadvantage to lead 3-0 at the break. Luton down to 10 after just5 minutes with Ward-Chambers sent off for dissent. Nevertheless the visitors have battled hard to keep Cambridge chances limited, creating a few good opportunities on the counter themselves. Cambridge making it count on 20 minutes with Tomlinson breaking forwards to put an inch perfect cross into the box for Kim Farrow to score. The final ball a little awry a times Cambridge found the back of the net for two more goal late in the first half to hammer home the advantage and put themselves into a very good position going into the 2nd half.

  Both sides making a chance at half-time with Emily Wilson coming on for Luton a straight swap for Lewis out on the right in attack. Alysha Stojko-Down coming on for Cambridge in midfield replacing Farrow. Luton to get the 2nd half underway, the ball long out to Fensome on the left, Jarvis in to defend for Cambridge the ball out for a throw in. Luton working the ball down the line the cross fired in from Wilson knocked down back across goal at the far post, Cheal-Ferris snatching it clear for the hosts.

  Wilson looking to take the ball on for Luton early in the 2nd half ask Cambridge’s defence some questions, sends a cross in with pace across the six yard box. Playing out from the back Cambridge send the ball on for Tomlinson bursting on down the left linking up with Coupar drifting wide she goes past her on the overlap taking on the return pass before lifting a looping cross into the middle of the six yard box, Melling under it to claim the ball into her midriff.

  Cambridge coming on Wood an outlet right channel seeing the ball into her feet coming inside pushed into Bells goes on into the box, Bell looking to roll the ball into her path, Melling comes rushing out to slide in smother the ball before Wood can get hold of it. Cambridge winning the ball centrally Stojko-Down on for Bell in space, rolls it on for Coupar to the right of the D, taking the ball wide into the area shoots firing the ball back across the keeper, too close though Melling can scoop it up into her gloves. 

  Another coming together between Edgar and O’Leary leaves Edgar on the ground feeling the injury she picked up first half, needs to come off this time, Cambridge making the change with Becca Stephenson coming on, moving into a right attacking position. Buttigieg busy at the back for Luton winning the ball well, cutting out several Cambridge passes, the visitors defending their box well. Farmer too clearing a ball through the middle from Stojko-Down.

Nicole Farmer clearing the ball for Luton

  Mulvaney getting on for Luton looknig to link up with Fensome, getting the return pass slips as she goes to pull the trigger from distance seeing the shot run harmlessly into the keeper. Cambridge seeing alot of the ball winning a corner on the left flashed into the area, O’Leary with the headed clearance for Luton back out to the right, Jarvis outside the area latching onto it firing an angled shot in on goal, Melling palming it away to the left.

  Bell, Wood and Coupar pressing the ball in the final 3rd, Stojko-Down moving up to put a scooped pass into the box, Farmer getting her head on it to clear for Luton. Cambridge dominating play without really opening Luton up the defence deep winning the ball, have players up top who can do damage if the right pass is picked out. Another strong appeal from Luton not getting the decision.

Cambridge’s Mollie Coupar

 Cambridge winning a free-kick on halfway to the left swept long to the right, Wood seeing it down moving forwards to angle a cross into the middle, Coupar running in jumping can’t quite get her head to the ball. Tomlinson bringing the ball on left side, Wood taking it on from her to cross, long to the far post Buttigieg back to win the ball for Luton. Wood back on the right tracking back sliding in to deny Fensome with a robust tackle as she looks to get on the move with the ball. again Luton are frustrated at not getting the decision, O’Leary venting her frustrations going too far earning herself a yellow and shown to the sin bin, Luton down to 9!

 Sin bin’s lasting 10 minutes, can Cambridge use the two player advantage to their benefit? Bell winning Cambridge a corner off of a Jarvis throw on the right. Cheal-Ferris to take, before that though some kerfuffle’s in the box to deal with, the referee having a word with Coupar and Farmer. The corner swung into the area, Swarres defending for the visitors back out to the right, Cheal-Ferris onto it her attempted cross blocked by Fensome.

  Luton making another change with Lisa Milliken coming on to replace Smith in defence. Richards played in on Cambridge’s left swinging a cross into the six yard area, Melling claiming it. Luton fighting hard but frustrated with on field decisions feeling they’re not getting their share, but remain in the game working hard are finding the positions to win the final ball, Cambridge for all their possession not able to capitalise. Coupar trying her luck from 25 yards out, her shot deflected off, Beaufort away for a corner kick. 

Cambridge’s Becca Stephenson with Luton’s Janaye Beaufort

 Cheal-Ferris to play the corner in from the right flashed in high, Richards is tall leaping up but can’t quite get her head onto the ball. Jackson is penalised for handball seeing ironic cheers from the Luton supporters as Buttigieg tries to play the ball up to Mulvaney, the free-kick given on half way. Buttigieg clipping a well struck pass long out to the right for Wilson who brings it down well, however to her frustration the offside flag is up against her. 

Luton’s Emily Wilson

 Cambridge pour forwards the ball into Bell moved on to Wood wide to her right sends a diagonal ball back to the left into Richards path, fires an angled shot in back across goal wide of the far post. Luton loose at the back as Cambridge press hard, Melling rushing in to dive in at Coupar’s feet charging the ball down the rebound from Coupar struck over the bar.

 No Goal! Cambridge up on the right Jarvis with the ball at her feet sweeps a deep cross into the corridor, Coupar pulling off the defence leaping for it even as the keeper comes, h=they collide did Coupar get a glancing touch on the ball hard to say the ball sailing on past both into the back of the net but Melling is in a heap in her goal the referee ruling in her favour no goal, hurt in need of treatment another long pause in play. Both sides to their dugouts to take on fluids and instruction. 

 Melling can’t continue Luton forced into a change, have Sarah Hudson ready to enter the action takes up her position between the sticks. Swarres coming off too, with Amber Leighton. Beaufort winning the ball looking to play Leighton in straight away through the middle, Cheal-Ferris quick to snap in cut the pass out for Cambridge. O’Leary back on for Luton.

 Fensome picking up the ball inside the Cambridge half to the left driving on avoiding one tackle is upended by Jackson as she runs across her legs tangling gets the free-kick outside the box. Farmer over it goes for goal shooting over. Buttigieg with a vital touch in defence to nick the ball off Bell as she looks to see the ball into her feet off Wood and turn in behind, 20 yards out. Bell continues to work hard in attack looking for an opening for Cambridge to bring others into contention flicks the ball out to Richards on the left her cross back in looking for Bell’s run into the area, shapes to hit it on the turn, Milliken throwing herself in to make the block for Luton.

 Cambridge getting the ball up into Richards win a corner on the left, swept into the near post, Melling punches it away across her goal for a 2nd corner on the right. Lifted into the top of the area, Mulvaney clearing for Luton. The visitors counter the ball coming right into Wilson on for Leighton through the middle, Shults racing out to the top of her area saving at her feet with the blocking save. The game moving into the final 7 minutes Luton bringing off Fensome, send on Ami Martins. Cambridge too making a switch Ella Marden coming on to replace Richards on the left. Marden putting the ball on for Coupar left wing her angled cross into the near post attacked by Bell, Farmer sliding in getting in the way to deny a goal scoring chance.

 

  GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes Tomlinson with the ball in her possession on the left sending a well placed pass into the path of Bell coming in off the wing to race towards the box, Hudson coming to close the angle, Bell shoots sending the ball across her to find the bottom corner 4-0. 

Jade Bell scoring her 2nd of the match for Cambridge United

 Luton conceding a 4th are undeterred as they fight for the ball after the restart, O’Leary nipping in with the tackle releasing Martins into the box to the left of goal, bearing down on the six yard box under challenge from Jarvis does well to get a shot away Shults out to close her down, staying big to make the save.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

  The clock ticking down Cambridge have dropped off in defence a little leaving space for Luton to exploit, keeping a clean sheet might be creeping into the back of their minds. Coupar coming off late on with Tally Miles joining the action for Cambridge. Beaufort winning the ball for Luton teeing up Milliken to shoot from range blasts her effort over the bar.

GOAL! Into stoppage time Cambridge send the ball forwards Stephenson bringing it under control right side playing it inside to Bell top of the area, right of goal has Wood inside her the close pass into her feet, digs the shot out to fire the dipping shot past Hudson to strike the inside of the far post and deflect into the goal for her first of the season 5-0.

Zoe Wood scoring at the death to add a 5th Cambridge goal

 Wood opening her Cambridge account for the new season with virtually the final touch of the game, to seal a 5-0 win and get Cambridge’s season up and running after two narrow 2-1 defeats.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 5-0 Luton Town Ladies

 No doubt a busy week for all the FAWNL clubs 3 games in 8 days to start the season, certainly going to be interested to digest. Cambridge after two narrow 2-1 defeats winning 5-0 at home against Luton side down to 10 players after just 5 minutes. A 5-0 win in the finish for Cambridge, Luton didn’t make it easy although I feel the clean sheet might mean just as much following their previous games. Luton had to dig deep never easy going down a player earl in a match, fought well, and created some good chances despite it whilst frustrating Cambridge up the other end. Strange as it may seem but this could be a positive, 5-0 defeat aside, will hurt but with soo many new players this was a performance to bring them together and may well prove defining in the end. Both sides with positives and minus’s to take out of their opening 3 matches, one thing’s for certain South East Division One is going to be fun to watch this season.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, strong candidates on both sides this is by no means an easy call. Full credit to Luton’s ten players worked hard, dug deep and had a frustrating afternoon. Defended well putting in some vital challenges. Fiona Buttigieg in particular won her tackles and looked to get things going in attack. Janaye Beaufort in midfield won the ball well, competed throughout. For Cambridge, Josie Jarvis linked up play well on the right5 winning her tackles and got the ball forwards. Brook Cheal-Ferris intercepted numerous balls and offered a good threat with her corner deliveries. Captain Zoe Wood got into some great positions in the right linked well with Bell up top created several chances scoring at the death. Lauren Tomlinson was strong in defence, winning the ball got forwards well adding to the threat going forwards with two great assists, is close between her and the winner have gone for Jade Bell, looked sharp throughout lively finding some great positions working the defence bringing others into the attack and ready to strike on goal scoring twice with two good finishes.

  First slice of tier 4 action of the season, remarked early on about how much the league has grown since Luton were last in it and that is good for the game overall. Clubs have to move forwards support their women’s side or get left behind. Not always easy I know, will be interesting to see who emerges on top but with the talent on show it’ll be a great watch. My thanks to both clubs for their help today, I might know the players but it is always useful to check. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v Chesham United Women

Sunday 2nd March

FAWNL South East Division One

Beginning March with some football action from FAWNL South East Division One, travelling down into Suffolk to watch AFC Sudbury Women as they take on Buckinghamshire side, Chesham United Women.

South East Division One representing tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid, proving to be really competitive this season, with 9 of the 12 sides tightly clustered earlier in the campaign taking points off each other. A clearer picture at both ends of the table now as we move into the last few weeks of the season. Norwich City Women, Chatham Town Women and newly promoted real Bedford Women the title contenders with London Bees making a late push to get involved, at the other end Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and London Seaward FC occupy the relegation places and are well adrift of the rest.

I’ll be honest here and tell you I expected AFC Sudbury Women to be down there again this season fighting relegation, unless they strengthened with some shrewd recruitment over the close season. And I am glad to be wrong on that count as they have done just that and as a result had a strong campaign well clear of the bottom as a result. Entering their second season in the FAWNL following back to back promotions from the ERWFL, their young talented squad doing fantastically well. AFC Sudbury investing in their academy rebuilding their women’s section to emerge as a challenger to Ipswich as a leading force for the woman’s game in the county.

 Adding to their debut season in the FAWNL, Sudbury have brought in some usual experience mainly from local rivals Needham Market, signing the likes of ex-Ipswich player, Ellie Rossiter, Ex-Cambridge midfielder, Amber Cantwell and attacker Lina Nagib. Also bringing in Ipswich and Philippines’ international goalkeeper, Nina Meollo on loan off the back of a fantastic season with Cambridge City. Despite a opening day loss, Sudbury went on to enjoy an 8 game unbeaten run see them pushing the top runners in the league. Have since lost Cantwell to a serious injury, but added to the squad with more usual experience with Sheryce Slater and Lucy Loomes coming to the club from Needham Market along with Jade Barrett previously with Cambridge City. Back to back defeats have stifled their push for the top spots dropping to 8th amongst the chasing pack will be looking to get back on track today to finish the season strong. Jessica Allen the top scorer netting 9 from her 11 games while Jasmin Drake and Lina Nagib have 4 goals each. 

  Chesham United Women travel to Suffolk in good form having turned their season around struggling at the wrong end of the table since winning promotion to tier 4 in 2022 looked to be in danger of getting caught up in a 3 way tussle at the bottom with Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and London Seaward FC taking just 4 points from their opening 11 games however began to turn it around back in December coming into 2025 in great form unbeaten in 5 matches winning 3 and drawing 2 to pull clear of the bottom, a narrow 1-0 loss to leaders Norwich ending that run are now 11 points clear baring a complete disaster are likely to be safe, and can focus on finishing the campaign strong.

  Gemma Fraser a prolific goal scorer for Chesham, is once again top scorer this time around netting 19 times from her 20 appearances, top scorer not only for Chesham but the league itself to date, and should she score this afternoon it would be her 250th for the club. Natalia Makowska is the next highest scorer with 6 goals to her name. One of the leading clubs in the Berks & Bucks area, with a number of youth teams and U18s side. 

The MEL Group Stadium the venue for today’s tie, the stadium boasting a state of the art 3G pitch, overlooked by the clubhouse and seat stand housing the changing rooms beyond, the bar open along with the kitchen serving hot food and drink, A terraced stand on the opposite side with covered standing behind both goals. Construction work taking place leading into the main stadium with the grass pitch beside the carpark being redeveloped making way for a second artificial playing surface. At last the sun was out a bright and sunny afternoon with no wind, pleasant, although the sun lowering in the sky likely to be an issue dropping behind one goal.

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Nina Meollo, Sophie Jeffrey, Ellie Rossiter, Aliyat Lambe, Sheryce Slater, Leonnie Bezant (C), Maisie Goodwin, Megan Edwards, Alex Penny, Eva Frazzoni & Jasmin Drake. Subs – Ronni Harrison, Phoebe Guiver, Jade Barrett, Amy Jarvis & Lucy Loomes.

AFC Sudbury Women

 Chesham United Women starting XI – Nicole Spittle, Sasha Smith, Melissa Porter, Ania Koscielska, Victoria Collett, Rebecca Fraser, Niamh Euman, Maisie O’Shea, Natasha Smith (C), Natalia Makowska & Gemma Fraser. Subs – Madelene Wright, Kiyana Fryer, Olivia Henry, Sophie Bishop & Steph Weston.

Chesham United Women

Captains Natasha Smith and Leonnie Bezant with today’s match officials

  Leonne Bryant captaining, Sudbury with Ronni Harrison having been out for a lengthy spell through injury making it onto the bench for today’s match. The hosts also without top scorer Allen and Lina Nagib. It’s the hosts to kick-off the first half attacking into the sun, wearing yellow coloured shirts and socks with blue shorts. Chesham lined up opposite wearing claret coloured shirts with white fronts and blue trim, likewise with their shorts and socks. The ball played back into the middle, sent long out to the right wing for Alex Penny to chase, defended by Chesham’s Melissa Porter out for a throw. 

 The visitors get the ball moving out from the back quickly a cross-field ball finding captain Natasha Smith running into space on the right, plays a first time through ball forwards splitting the Sudbury centre backs that sees striker Gemma Fraser run onto the ball left of the D top of the area pulls the trigger as goalkeeper, Nina Meollo fresh from duty with the Philippines national team comes to close the angle, going down gets something on the ball to take the sting off the shot as it creeps past her heading for the empty goal, Sophie Jeffery is around on the cover to clear the ball away to the right.

Gemma Fraser stealing in between the Sudbury defence to create an early opportunity

  A lively start, Sudbury looking to build out on their right, Ellie Rossiter getting forwards looking to link up with Penny, Chesham moving in to close the ball down. Another clipped ball over the top sees Natasha Smith looking to break in behind the Sudbury defence get hold of the ball, but for Meollo rushing out to the edge of her box to get hold of the ball first. Jeffery left for Sudbury forwards into Megan Edwards is tackled by Natasha Smith the Chesham captain turning play around sliding the ball forwards into the channel as Gemma Fraser comes across to receive the ball 25 yards out jinks right the left looking for a opening as she closes in on the area unleashing a vicious strike swerves into the side netting at Meollo’s near post.

Chesham captain, Natasha Smith

  Sudbury pressing the ball high looking to get players up the pitch Edwards and Penny taking players on down the wings the latter driving forwards on the right running into traffic as the Chesham defence close the door. Rossiter getting up with Penny right side, lefts a cross into the near post, Victoria Collett getting up ahead of Jasmin Drake at the near post to head the ball clear of her area. 

Chesham defender, Victoria Collett

 The Chesham defence deeper, Sudbury pressing bodies up around the 18 yard box the short ball coming in central to Eva Frazzoni 30 yards out, takes on the shot a tame effort running straight through to Nicole Spittle in the Chesham goal. Gemma Fraser moving across the back line looknig to provide the outlet for a pass as Chesham break out of their defence, lifted into her path as she bursts down the left wing squares a cross into the area cut out by Aliyat Lambe at the back for Sudbury. 

  Sudbury getting hold of the ball in midfield, captain Leonnie Bezant with Maisie Goodwin forwards into attacker, Drake, central 25 out drives with the ball, Sasha Smith lunging in with the tackle to win the ball back for Chesham. Frazzoni combining with Bezant centrally for the hosts played back to Lambe as the defence pushes up, the defender looking to float a ball out to the left for Edwards, Sasha Smith intercepting for the visitors. 

Sudbury probing Rossiter lifting a ball on for Drake to latch onto in attack outside the D drives forwards into the area, messy as she goes down in a coming together with a defender, asks the question but nothing doing the referee signalling play on. Lambe bringing the ball into the Chesham half forwards into Penny in the right channel sends it on as Rossiter storms past her on the overlap on the angle sends the ball wide of the near post.

Jasmin Drake with the ball for Sudbury

 Edwards doing well to keep the ball in play on the left for Sudbury turning inside to break down the wing, held up plays it back up the line to Goodwin who n turn passes inside for Jeffery, inside to Bryant who gives it to Lambe in space 30 yards out to her right, not closed down takes on the strike blasting the ball wide of the far post. Drake with a forceful run into the left channel winning Sudbury a corner kick. Taken short into Jeffery crossed into the top of the area initially cleared by Gemma Fraser, Sudbury regain possession out on the left a low cross into the near post claimed well by Spittle. 

  Penny and Edwards switching flanks for the hosts, Goodwin looking to thread a pass into the left channel for Penny, a vital interception from Chesham’s Ania Koscielska. Sudbury moving in quickly to win the 2nd ball keep Chesham pinned back asking the questions, the visitors patient in defence looking for the opportunity to counter. Goodwin winning the ball well for Sudbury clipping in into the left wing for Penny speeding forwards level with the edge of the area sends a low ball in to the near post, Spittle across to cover the angle can see it run safely into the side netting.

  Sasha Smith busy at the back for Chesham, cutting a high pass out intended for Penny as she makes a run on the left. Maisie O’Shea carrying the ball forwards for Chesham through the middle on for Makowska, looks to spin off Bezant release Gemma Fraser up top, Sheryce Slater intercepting the ball at the back for Sudbury.

Sudbury defender, Sheryce Slater

  Sudbury winning a corner over on the left an inviting ball in across the six yard box no one can get their head on it cleared at the far post dropping to Slater top of the area, her strike charged down. Koscielska winning the header at the ball as the hosts break out from the ball lifting a high ball into the opposition area. Sudbury determined seeing more of the ball around their opponents box, Chesham dogged in defence, dangerous on the break lifted on for Natasha Smith moving right in space lays it back through the middle for Gemma Fraser surging forwards in first touch a little too strong however knocking the ball out to the right gives chase but can’t keep it in. 

 The pace of the game seeing fouls given away, Sudbury sending the ball into the right channel, Porter dealing with it for Chesham. The hosts winning a free-kick wide on the left inside the Chesham half, Jeffery to play the ball into the area, an inviting delivery, Spittle composed seeing it all the way not putting off by the yellow shirts around her as she catches it well above her head. 

 Sudbury are the ones asking the questions, however the best chances so far have fallen to Chesham as they look dangerous on the break, Gemma Fraser seeing the ball into her feet back to goal 30 yards out shifts it down the right wing to release Natasha Smith who bursts down to the by-line cutting the ball back across the Sudbury six yard box, O’Shea running in at the far post meeting it turned goal wards, Meollo on her line down sharply to make the save grabbing the ball on the line as she falls.

Sudbury goalkeeper, Nina Meollo

 Edwards sending the ball out to Penny on the left for Sudbury has Jeffery going past her on the overlap giving her the ball the full back takes it to the by-line lifting a dangerous ball in across the face of the Chesham goal, cleared at the far post. Chesham working hard in defence, Makowska back to defend as Rossiter looks to link up with Penny now back on the left the ball out for a goal kick.

  Rebecca Fraser nipping in to win the ball for Chesham forwards for Makowska, moves left looking to release Gemma Fraser down the left, Rossiter getting a foot in to cut the pass out for the hosts. Penny taking the ball on right channel, Niamh Euman lunging in to regain the ball for Chesham forwards into Natasha Smith, Gemma Fraser providing a run left to right across the D, just can’t pick her out. 

  Collett getting up ahead of Drake to win the ball with her head inside the box as Penny loops in a cross from the right. A corner for the hosts on the right defended at the near post headed on across goal, Sudbury seeing another corner won out on the left. Flung in high at the near post Spittle again up well to claim. Into the closing stages of the first half Frazzoni over to the left links up with Edwards and Jeffery the ball clipped into the box defended by Chesham’s Collett.

 Gemma Fraser moving into dispossess Lambe at the back for Sudbury as she gets caught on the ball, stealing in behind left of goal to race into the area, shoots on the angle low towards goal, Meollo rushing out to close the angle getting down to make the blocking save.  

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-0 Chesham United Women

 An interesting first half draws to a close, no doubt Sudbury have been the ones asking the questions pushing players on with the ball getting up and around the Chesham area, however it is their opponents who have had the better chances and probably should have taken at least one to lead the game. As it is the first half ends goalless. Chesham pressed back in defence with a determined display under pressure looking dangerous on the break. Sudbury bringing the ball on well winning the 2nd balls in the middle keeping the tempo up as they look to find the break through. All set up for the 2nd half can’t see it remaining goalless, Chesham have put alot into that half will they be able to keep it up 2nd half or will Sudbury’s pressing tell?

 Chesham with a change at the start of the 2nd half, Steph Weston coming on to replace Makowska. It’s the visitors to get the 2nd half underway, played into Euman in the middle out to Sasha Smith right side lifted forwards for Natasha Smith, Jeffery clearing it for the hosts. Drake getting hold of the ball down the left wing for Sudbury forcing Chesham into conceding a corner kick.

 GOAL! Taken short given back to the taker on the angle Jeffery out wide on the left sends a ball in towards goal, curled in under the bar, even as a defender tries in vain to clear 1-0! Sudbury breaking the deadlock with barely a minute of the 2nd half gone. 

Sophie Jeffery’s shot flying in to open the scoring for Sudbury

 GOAL! The perfect reply from Chesham however as they get straight back on level terms have the ball their left Natasha Smith sending a great diagonal ball up to Gemma Fraser positioned left of the D, 20 yards out cushions it down off her body inside to get away from her maker moving across the D, evading the onrushing keeper to turn inside right of goal to blast a low strike into the empty net to make it 1-1 and score her 250th Chesham goal in the process!

Gemma Fraser getting clear to score her 250th goal and equalise for Chesham United Women

  Chesham straight back into the game the visitors back to defensive duties straight away having to deal with the low sun now, Euman hooking the ball clear, Sudbury soon retrieve it out on the left, Jeffery with a cross from deep angled into the area claimed confidently by Spittle. The hosts getting on well pressing bodies into the final 3rd a vicious cross wide from the left flashed in across the Chesham goal, Frazzoni running in unmarked far post can’t quite get there.

  Chesham look to build an attack through the middle, O’Shea on the ball driving forwards with support from Weston the ball forwards intercepted by Slater for Sudbury. Rossiter getting forwards to link up with Penny on Sudbury’s left exchanging passes, it’s Gemma Fraser tracking back who puts the tackle in to win the ball back for Chesham. Sudbury piling on the pressure Penny with a burst of pace on the ball right side flashing a cross into the six yard box, Drake looking to turn on the ball closed down by Koscielska, Frazzoni in close attendance can’t dig the ball out from under her feet to get a shot away before Collett closes her down to clear. 

 GOAL! Bezant on the ball central for Sudbury lifts a good ball out into the feet of Penny on the right outside the area, takes it forwards into the box flashing a cross into the far post Edwards looking to meet it at the far post six yards out her shot charged down by the defence and keeper the rebound coming straight to Frazzoni positioned centrally top of the area, hits it cleanly angling the ball back into the empty net to put Sudbury back into the lead 2-1.

Eva Frazzoni restores Sudbury’s lead

 Sudbury getting bodies forwards winning a free-kick out wide on the right, angled in to the far post area, Spittle getting a glove on the ball turned behind for a corner kick. Is a teasing in swinging corner from the left, angled in across the face of goal asking to be nodded home, but no one attacks it as it runs wide out past the far post. Edwards and Penny switching sides again as Sudbury press for a 3rd goal.

 GOAL! The switch bringing instant dividends as Edwards combines with Rossiter out on the right getting down the wing Edwards lashes a cross into the Chesham six yard box, Penny closing in far post meeting it turning the ball home past the diving keeper to make it 3-1.

Alex Penn scores at the far post for Sudbury

 Chesham making a change as they bring off O’Shea, send Sophie Bishop on. Gemma Fraser is isolated up top at times for Chesham as the visitors a pressed back into their own area, yet she remains a valuable outlet whenever they get an opportunity to break, a diagonal ball clipped into her from the right 20 yards out left of the D the striker sees it down off her chest well to move inside to escape her marker and unleash a shot, gets too much on it however seeing the attempt dragged wide of the near post. 

 Porter steals in to intercept for Chesham as Bryant looks to release Penny out on the wing. A shot from distance all of 25 yards out from Sudbury takes a wicked deflection seeing it crash into the side netting. Changes for both sides, Jade Barrett coming on for Sudbury to replace Drake moves into an attacking role. Porter coming off for Chesham, Olivia Bishop entering the game.

 All Sudbury breaking on the left a cross from deep, into the six yard box, Frazzoni central up to head the ball nodding it down on target, Spittle getting down quickly behind it to save on the line. 

Chesham goalkeeper, Nicole Spittle

 The hosts relentless coming forwards press left crossed into the middle, Frazzoni looking to nod it down for Barrett to smash home, Weston getting a foot in to clear the ball, out of the area straight to Penny 25 yards out flashes a strike wide of the left post. 

Maisie Goodwin winning the ball for Sudbury

 GOAL! Sudbury continue to dominate in attack, Edwards getting hold of the ball on the left, skipping past a tackle bursting on into the area firing a cross in to the six yard box evading the diving keeper at her near post travels through to Penny central to calmly slot in her 2nd of the contest to make it 4-1. 

Alex Penny with her 2nd of the game extending Sudbury’s lead

  Sudbury with a commanding lead midway through the 2nd half leading 4-1 and looking likely to get more as Chesham struggle to stem the tide, can’t get the ball into their attackers. Penny stealing in to nick the ball on the right drives on down the wing before flashing a cross into the six yards box straight into Barrett central can’t get it out from under her feet to unleash a shot before Koscielska closes her down with the blocking tackle. 

Chesham’s Ania Koscielska

 Gemma Fraser continues to pull into space on the flanks looking for the ball as Chesham try to relieve the pressure at the back, carrying it down the line lifts a cross into the box Weston making a central run the high ball however it taken by Meollo. Sudbury with a double change bringing of both Lambe and Frazzoni, Amy Jarvis and Phoebe Guiver coming on. The latter making her first appearance of the season having returned from injury. 

Phoebe Guiver with Chesham’s Victoria Collett

 Chesham looking to get themselves back into the game winning a throw high on the left dropping into Gemma Fraser 25 yards out sends it on for Weston ahead of her, left of the D looks to shoot curling her effort wide of the far post.

  Sasha Smith fouling Penny as she looks to get clear on the right Sudbury with a free-kick in the corner, Jeffery curling it into the near post, Spittle diving to turn it behind for a corner kick. Launched in across the six yard box towards the far post the ball headed down back towards goal, bouncing, cleared of the line!

 Chesham making a change sending on Kiyana Fryer into an attacking role replacing Rebecca Fraser. Rossiter laying the ball on for Penny on Sudbury’s right, fires a cross into the near post, cut out by Chesham’s Collett. Sudbury making another double change with the return of their captain, Ronni Harrison making a welcome return to the pitch, Bezant coming off handing her the armband. Rossiter off too Lucy Loomes on to make her Sudbury debut. 

Ronni Harrison returning from a long injury layoff for Sudbury

 

  The substitutes combining off a throw on the right Harrison sending the ball on for Loomes down the right battles her way to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. Loomes fouled as she’s backed into 25 yards out central winning a free-kick, is encouraged to take it herself.

 GOAL! Loomes launching the ball into a packed far post area a dangerous ball in knocked down into the ground, plays going for it looking to scramble away, Edwards seeing it rebound into her feet wide of the post and flicks it back across goal to score and extend Sudbury’s lead 5-1.

Megan Edwards scoring Sudbury’s 5th goal

 The goals sucking the energy out of Chesham have battled hard in defence but the pressure from Sudbury had taken its toll the hosts relentless in attack 2nd half leading 5-1 with less than 10 minutes to play. Sudbury send the ball in central from deep on their left into Guiver top of the box great skill to control the ball lay it off for Loomes to her left meeting the ball on the volley sees her strike rattle down off the crossbar!

Steph Weston with the ball for Chesham

  Loomes looking to impose herself on the game winning a corner out on the right, taken cleanly by the keeper at her near post. Chesham look to get forwards Bishop with a good run on the ball though the middle for the visitors played out to Gemma Fraser wide on the left drives forwards with the ball clips a teasing cross into the Sudbury six yard box, Fryer leaping central can’t quite get her head on the ball. 

 Into the closing stages of the game Sudbury looking to finish strong aiming to increase the score-line Barrett in the middle now on for Penny in the right channel pushing for the by-line flashes a cross in near side, intercepted by Koscielska for Chesham. The visitors mounting one final attack Weston sending a good pass through for Gemma Fraser up top 25 yards out looks to turn move the ball to the right, Slater diving in to win the ball back for Sudbury.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 5-1 Chesham United Women

  Sudbury returning to winning ways after suffering back to back losses with a clinical 2nd half performance to take the 3 points and move back into the top six in the South East Division One table. Had much of the ball in the first half but didn’t use it nor move it quick enough in the final phase, coming up against a determined Chesham defence who themselves looked dangerous on the counter creating the better chances. Goalless at the break Sudbury came out on top 2nd half getting the early break through. Chesham to their credit responding straight away to equalise but the pressure kept coming Sudbury moving the ball quickly in the final 3rd winning it back repeatedly. Retaking the lead and going on to add to the tally. Chesham fighting hard but struggling to get the ball forwards chances to counter limited in the 2nd period. Encouraged by recent results know they can dig out more points in the league. Sudbury back into the top half will certainly be aiming to stay there.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, often a hard call and it’s always nice when the notes confirm what you were thinking as you left the ground, I do write down quite a bit as you know. Several performances of note to mention of course was an intriguing contest on two fronts. Firstly for Chesham, Gemma Fraser gave it all up top moving into the channels looking to provide and outlet throughout and could have had a hat-trick on another day, scoring her 250th Chesham goal, fantastic, Natasha Smith doing her best to link up with Fraser up top with some great passing forced deeper as the game developed. Ania Koscielska and Victoria Collett at the heart of the Chesham defence with several vital tackles, interceptions and blocks. Sasha Smith covering the ground getting her tackles in to win the ball back. For Sudbury, Maisie Goodwin get stuck in in the middle to win the ball keep Sudbury on the front foot. Likewise Leonnie Bezant winning the ball high never let Chesham off the hook. Ellie Rossiter and Sophie Jeffery getting forwards from full back to over load the attack out on the flanks. Megan Edwards showing some neat footwork on the ball to get away in the wing to deliver some teasing crosses getting a goal too. The award however goes to Alex Penny the winger was a threat on either flank getting hold of the ball and taking on the Chesham defence sending in some teasing crosses and bagging herself 2 goals. 

 Pleased to have gotten down to Sudbury at last this season, watching from afar have been joyed with their success this season. great too to finally catch up with Chesham United Women see them in action. FAWNL South East Division One is highly competitive this season. A wonderful achievement for Chesham’s Gemma Fraser, despite the result to score her 250th goal for the club, huge congratulations. My thanks to both teams for their help with the team details as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Seaward FC

Sunday  12th January

FAWNL South East Division One

  A late start to 2025 for myself, but so too for many clubs with the weather at the start of the year leading to two successive weekends of substantial postponements. Thankfully today’s planned match is on, albeit relocated to the neighbouring astro pitch as Cambridge United WFC look to continue their recent good form as they take on London Seaward FC in FAWNL South East Division One.

Representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid FAWNL South East Division One has proven an intriguing league to follow in the first half of the 2024/25 season with 9 of the 12 sides staying in close contention with no one able to break away and it will certainly be interesting to see who can emerge on top come the end of the season.

 Cambridge United WFC amongst that pack, a frustrating run of defeats seeing momentum stalled towards the end of the year, injuries to key players at the start of the season and early into the season not helping, have gradually got back to full strength and a positive run to end 2024 picking up to huge wins against Actonians and Norwich City saw the club rebuild momentum and get back at amongst the cluster of sides above them, earning manager Darren Marjoram a nomination for FAWNL Division One manager of the month along the way.

Striker Sarah Wiltshire back at the start of this season after having her 3rd child breaking her arm, on season’s eve. Bella Simmons has stepped up to provide the goals in her absence netting 12 so far this season, and with Wiltshire now back and scoring herself Cambridge have a potent attack along with Alysha Stojko-Down in midfield who has 6 goals to her name to date. Defender, Ella Finneran, joining from London Seaward FC over the summer another suffering injury in pre-season has taken her a while to return to match fitness, no playing a keen to show what she can do.

London Seaward FC formed from the old Leyton Orient side that gained promotion to the FAWNL a few season’s back, Leyton Orient FC pulling their support and name for the women’s side they became an independent women’s football club, with a strong squad and young manager in Dan McKimm who quickly earned a high reputation, eventually leading to him being offered the London Bees management role, that has seen several London Seaward players move across the capital to join him.

The loss of manager and a good portion of players over the summer saw something of a rebuild take place at London Seaward, possessing a healthy squad of players, nevertheless have had to bring several new players in, amongst those, goalkeeper, Alex Baker a vastly having played for Billericay Town Women and defender, Beatrice Rogers who started last season with Cambridge United WFC. An unsettled spell the managers role now taken on by Jason Murray as the club looks to beat the drop. Despite starting the season with a win London Seaward FC find themselves in a battle to avoid relegation along side Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women and Chesham United Women, with 2 of the 3 going down. Just a single point earnt since, have nevertheless been working hard, fighting for points encouraged in recent games a narrow 1-0 loss at home to Norwich last weekend felt they could have taken something from the game. Katherine Long top scorer with 5 goals to her name.

With the freezing weather looking to put pay to the action on the grass pitches this weekend, Cambridge had a back-up playing at St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus stadium the site has an astro itch situated behind the main stadium. Permission sought to relocate the game to get it on. Have covered a few games on the pitch not recently however, the fenced pitch now having a small covered area by the side for spectators as well and standing viewing behind one goal. A few layers on to protect from the cold, felt quite pleasant actually, if just above freezing a warm cup of tea helping. A large pitch offering good width.

Today’s game relocated to the Premier Plus Stadium’s astro pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb Lauren Rouse Abbie Jackson, Elle Finneran, Charlotte Gillies, Ella Marden, Eva Hubbard (C), Serena Cobb, Alysha Stojko-Down, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten, Sammy Edgar & Rosy Wodhams.

Cambridge United WFC

 London Seaward FC starting XI – Alex Baker, Mia South, Rochelle Mayne, Niamh McKevitt, Beatrice Rogers, Sharne Harris, Maisie Cannon (C), Suzy Davies, Laila Malcolm, Leila Awan & Cloe O’Brien. Subs – Lily Aungier, Emma Cianter & Zainab El-Mouden.

London Seaward FC

Captain’s Maisie Cannon and Eva Hubbard with today’s referee, Sarah Tonks

Cambridge getting back to full strength have Elle Finneran in a defence making her 2nd start of the season. The hosts having the kick-off in the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. London Seaward lining up without top scorer Long opposite wearing light blue shirts with a navy swirl design, navy shorts and light blue socks. Cambridge launching the ball out to the right wing for Charlotte Gillies to attack as she bursts forwards, Sharne Harris under it to win the header for the visitors the ball out for a throw in. 

Cambridge looking to press the ball high up the pitch in the early exchanges Gillies on the right in to close the ball down inside for Sarah Wiltshire she looks to release Gillies down the line, held up by Harris knocked back up the pitch to be crossed into the box, Niamh McKevitt heading clear inside the box for London Seaward. The visitors regain possession in the middle look to counter attack, Suzy Davies taking the ball forwards through the middle with a powerful run threading it out to the right flanks for Leila Awan, looks to take the ball on, Cambridge defender Abbie Jackson moving out to close her down, tackling to send the ball out for a throw.

London Seaward’s Leila Awan

Both sides competitive looking to win the ball, Cloe O’Brien up top for London Seaward moving about the ground looking to close down the defence, Finneran dispossessing Awan as she looks to attack on the right again, the ball cleared into Bella Simmons on halfway turns and drives forwards with the ball for Cambridge laying it out to captain Eva Hubbard drifting out to the left side, Awan tracking back to help in defence closing her down before she turns inside looking to cross.

O’Brien fouling Finneran as she brings the ball on down the left a free-kick on half way the ball lifted out to the right side, Gillies taking it on whipping a cross low into the near post, Rochelle Mayne able to shield it back to her keeper as Wiltshire looks to attack it. Simmons with some great movement coming for the ball for Cambridge and turning to drive at the London Seaward defence moving right looks to send Gillies on down the line, Harris getting her foot out to block the pass bring the ball away for the visitors.

Competitive, a few robust challenges being made free-kicks given away, Alysha Stojko-Down with the pass into Simmons moving into the right channel 25 yards out attempts to feed the ball on for Wiltshire ahead of her as she breaks into the box, Mayne getting across her to see the ball back safely to her keeper. A pause in play as both Davies for London Seaward and Rouse for Cambridge are down with knocks, both hobbling slightly as they get back to their feet but both okay to play on. The Cambridge defence pushed up often to the halfway line as the hosts look to press London Seaward.

Jackson winning the ball at the back for Cambridge lifting a great pass forwards for Ella Marden on the left, into the corner has Wiltshire coming to support, taking the ball inside sends a dangerous ball looping across the face of the London Seaward goal on the angle out past the far post for a goal-kick.

Ella Marden taking the ball on for Cambridge

Cambridge winning the ball well looking to get forwards, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left wing sees her cross, deflected behind of Mia South for a corner kick. Swept in across the six yard box dropping far post, no one can make contact as London Seaward retrieve the ball and look to break up the left with Harris on the ball. O’Brien fighting for the ball in the Cambridge half, squirms away with it looking for options, Beatrice Rogers providing an attacking run on the right, the Cambridge back line hold their line well, Rogers straying offside.

Beatrice Rogers stretching to win the ball for London Seaward

Rogers doing the defending up the other end as Cambridge looking to send a diagonal ball from the centre into Stojko-Down as she breaks forwards into the left channel, Rogers winning the ball. Simmons linking up with Gillies as Cambridge attack down the right, Gillies delivering a vicious cross into the penalty box, Wiltshire looking to cushion it down into her feet hit on the half volley, the touch a fraction to heavy, giving Mayne the vital fraction of a second to swing her leg out launch the ball clear.

London Seaward defender, Rochelle Mayne

Hubbard up on the left for Cambridge with the hosts winning the ball back on halfway a strong forwards run, Rogers closing her down to tackle win the ball back the visitors looking to launch a rapid counter attack the ball played into Awan central, Rogers bursting on up the right sees the ball played into her path taking it on down the line whips a cross into the six yard box, Cambridge goalkeeper, however making a comfortable catch.

Suzy Davies carrying the ball forwards for London Seaward

Cambridge with the lions share of the ball going forwards, London Seaward absorbing alot at the back, nevertheless look a threat on the counter attack and lively Cambridge can’t afford to get complacent in possession. Harris bringing the ball on well on the left for London Seaward, O’Brien coming to receive the ball, turns looking to attack the Cambridge defence, runs into Rouse, doesn’t get very far.

London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon

London Seaward captain, Maisie Cannon getting hold of the ball forwards for Davies on to Awan right side attempts to turn infield, Finneran stretching out a leg winning the ball back for Cambridge. Laila Malcolm with a strong challenge to win the ball for the visitors, O’Brien coming back to receive the ball, turns sending the threaded ball into Awan on the right, comes inside her cross intercepted outside the box.

Cambridge’s Elle Finneran

Harris fouled by Stojko-Down on halfway, South over the set-piece as London Seaward send players up the field. The ball lifted into the top of the Cambridge box, Jackson attacking it to win the header clearing for Cambridge. Simmons picking the ball up from deep for Cambridge with another powerful run with the ball drifting right lays it out to Gillies who runs it to the by-line before whipping her cross into the six yard box, Rogers pulling her foot through the ball as she turns in front of goal to clear the ball away to the left for a throw.

Cambridge building pressure pushing players on Hubbard left with Stojko-Down who is fouled outside the area to the left of goal. The free-kick floated into the far post area knocked down the ball blocked inside the six yard box, half cleared a shot struck from outside the area on the right also blocked with London Seaward all back to defend. Cambridge winning the ball back inside the final 3rd a shot from range on the right driven in on goal straight at the keeper, Baker with a straight forward save.

O’Brien up top on her own getting about well to try and press the Cambridge defence, frustrated a little too strong with her tackles at times. Malcolm getting hold of the ball for London Seaward looks for the run of Awan to the right, lays it inside for O’Brien, but she is closely marked by Jackson who prevents her turning 30 yards out.

Cloe O’Brien bringing the ball under control for London Seaward

Cambridge on the attack right side the cross-field ball out to the left won by Marden outside the area played into the area for Wiltshire to latch onto, burst on towards the near post in behind the defence gets her strike away on the angle, Baker behind the ball reacting well beating the ball down, her defence quick to recover to scramble the ball away to safety as Simmons races in to try and attack the loose ball.

Davies and Marden tussling for the ball out on the left, Marden winning the free-kick on half way. Flung out to the right side, Simmons fouled as an overly high challenge comes in attempting to win the ball. The set-piece 30 yards out to the right of goal. Wiltshire’s ball into the top of the area cleared out to the left Marden latching onto it sending it back in towards the far post Jackson looking to attack it a faint touch out behind for a goal kick.

London Seaward keep soaking up the pressure ready to launch the counter Davies marching forwards with the ball playing a diagonal pass out to Harris bombing on up the left coming inside fires a ball into the area angling across goal, Webb can see it safely wide of her far post. Awan with good foot work on the ball wriggling away to burst forwards left channel before being upended by Rouse winning the free kick. South on the set-piece lifted into the top of the area, Jackson with the clearing header once again.

Abbie Jackson heading the ball clear for Cambridge

Cambridge guilty of giving away free kicks inviting a little pressure themselves, the ball played into the box from deep on the left is missed by the defence as it drops on the penalty spot, O’Brien’s eyes lighting up as she snatches a shot away, Webb with a fantastic save from point blank range saving with her legs as the ball is struck at her, deflected away to the right and cleared for a throw in.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

London Seaward encouraged from the throw 25 yards out dropped into O’Brien turns to send the ball into Awan top of the D takes the ball over to the left looking for an opening takes on the strike from 20 yards out dragging her effort wide of the left post.

Hubbard out to Marden attacking down Cambridge’s left sends the ball into the London Seaward box, Stojko-Down running in near side turns the ball wide of the post. Malcolm into Harris on the left for London Seaward up the wing into Awan, drives forwards before being brought down right on the edge of the area. A dangerous position, South on the set-piece fired into the the Cambridge wall.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

Cambridge for all their attacking play frustrated by London Seaward, matching their formation dropping back, clear cut chances hard to come by, Hubbard from a free-kick central playing the ball on for Simmons, looks to knock it down for Stojko-Down positioned top of the box, Mayne in close on her defending for London Seaward. Wiltshire pulled down as she attacks out right for Cambridge 25 yards from goal. Over the resulting free-kick herself swings the ball in close on goal, Baker getting up well to claim the ball for the visiting side.

Cambridge’s Alysha Stojko-Down with London Seawards’ Laila Malcolm

The first half rapidly drawing to a close, Baker with the ball in her gloves with the drop kick, smashes the ball against the back of one of her unsuspecting defenders 20 yards out floored the ball rebounds straight into the path of Wiltshire outside the D, takes a wild swing at the ball attempting to find the exposed goal, instead pulls her attempt wide of the left post thankfully for Baker.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 London Seaward FC

  The sides head into the changing room goalless at the break. A spirted display in defence from London Seaward have soaked up alot of pressure without presenting their opponents with many clear cut opportunities. Cambridge on top in terms of possession, maybe a little frustrated winning the first ball well, the 2nd not so much as London Seaward work hard to close it down in the final 3rd. The visitors actually with the best opportunity in the first half forcing a point blank save from Webb. Have looked to break with pace turn play around so far frustrating Cambridge.

No changes for either side as the floodlights come on at the beginning of the 2nd half, what little (warmth) there was has faded time to get the hat out as the two sides emerge for from the changing rooms neither making a change with London Seaward getting the 2nd 45 underway. The back into midfield finding it’s way back to Baker in goal as Cambridge look to get on the front foot straight away pressing the ball.

Simmons taking the ball on up the right wing playing the pass inside to Cobb pushing on towards the box looks to send the ball inside towards Wiltshire, can’t quite bring it down under control as McKevitt closes her down the ball cleared away to the left side, Marden latching onto the shot 25 yards out sending a powerful shot in towards goal, threatening to fly in under the crossbar Baker with a wonderful save getting a glove up to tip the ball over the crossbar.

London seaward defender, Niamh McKevitt

  From the resulting corner on the right the delivery is curled in across the face of goal dropping far post met by Jackson’s head six yards out planted her attempt straight at the keeper, Baker grabbing hold of the ball. Cambridge with a positive start to the 2nd half have London Seaward pushed back into the final 3rd, Malcolm fouling Simmons as she looks to keep hold of the ball on the right. Jackson playing the free-kick on up the right for Simmons as she looks to combine with Gillies playing the one two, Harris going with Gillies able to see Simmons return pass out of play for a goal-kick.

  Hubbard getting forwards on the left for Cambridge brought down outside the area. Wiltshire over the set-piece from the angle 25 yards out takes on the shot, Baker behind it all the way to save comfortably. Fouls being given away on both sides, London Seaward finding it harder to get out from the back as Cambridge work to close the ball down keep building pressure.

  Thing’s tight in the box, Cambridge getting players on struggling to carve a hole through a determined London Seaward defence, South putting in the blocking tackle as Hubbard looks to lay Stojko-Down in left of goal. Jackson intercepting on half way for Cambridge playing the ball back into the middle for Hubbard who has Cobb breaking forwards ahead of her into the right channel, seeing the ball into her feet drives on, Harris coming to close her down with a strong tackle to get the ball clear for the visitors.

London Seaward’s, Sharne Harris

 Won’t stick up top, O’Brien working hard still to close the defence down, lacking support with her side pushed back, does well though to win her side a free-kick out on the left 30 yards from goal, an opportunity to relief the pressure, South on the ball, sends a high ball looping up in towards goal, Webb not distracted by runners closing in keeping her eye on the ball to take a clean catch.

  Cambridge making the first change of the game with Rosy Wodhams coming onto the pitch, in place of Marden with Hubbard moving over to the left. Simmons out to the right for Cambridge taking the ball on from Gillies driving into the corner, whips a low cross into the near post close on goal, Mayne tracking back, getting their in front of Wiltshire to intercept. Wodhams adding another threat with her midfield runs for Cambridge driving at the defence, Cannon lunging in to halt her run.

Maisie Cannon winning the ball for London Seaward

  Wodhams seeing the ball down into her feet from a throw on the right as Cambridge look to find the break through, turns quickly to thread the pass into the area for Stojko-Down bursting clear right of goal, the angle closing down releases her strike, targeting the near post, Baker down sharply to divert the ball into the side netting, corner.

 The delivery comes looping in beyond the far post the six yard box crowded, the ball headed back over to the right side, turned behind for a 2nd corner. Hubbard playing the ball back into the area headed clear for a throw on the right.  Simmons pushed over out wide on the right for Cambridge 25 yards out, Wiltshire to deliver the set-piece into the area, knocked clear into Wodhams central, lays it back to Wiltshire who sweeps the ball into the far post area on the angle, Jackson attacking it driving her header wide of the far post, the London Seaward defence stepping up well though catching her offside.

  Most of the play inside the London Seaward half, Cambridge knocking on the door looking for the opening goal, Hubbard taking the ball on down the left sweeping a cross long into the box, Harris dealing with it for London Seaward. Tense out there, London Seaward battling, Cambridge a little frustrated, attack on the right Wiltshire quicker to the ball snatching onto it as she breaks into the area wide of goal from the angle looks to shoot across the keeper, Baker down well pushing the ball away to the left. Cambridge retrieving left side clipping the ball back into the mix, Mayne up stretching to meet it with her head very nearly turns the ball into her own net, Baker with the reactive save at close range to beat the ball down, a scramble for the ball ensues London Seaward digging it away to safety, play paused with Baker down having taken a knock but able to continue.

Serina Cobb bringing the ball on for Cambridge

  Simmons looking to chase the ball down as it is rolled forwards into the box, running out of room gets a faint touch to play it off Mayne tracking her run to win a corner kick, although I’m not certain Mayne made contact with the ball, she certainly doesn’t think so. Corner nevertheless. London Seaward not happy a few tempers flaring as a couple of decisions go against them a free-kick awarded wide on the right, Wiltshire to deliver players up into the are swung into the six yard box headed away to the left a 2nd cross put into the mix, Baker up well to get hold of the ball.

Goalkeeper Alex Baker with a number of saves to keep it at 0-0

  London seaward making their first change, Emma Cianter coming on in place of Davies. Cambridge making a change too with Sammy Edgar coming into the midfield replacing Cobb midway through the half. All action Cambridge pushing for a goal Hubbard attacking on the left sending in a cross long to the far post Gillies providing the run looking to head the ball back in at goal, Harris tracking back with her, the winger can’t get the ball over the defender, Harris cutting it out clearing the ball.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse

  Rouse brings the ball forwards for Cambridge pushing the ball on into Stojko-Down who helps the ball on into the area for Wiltshire making the attacking run ahead of her pulls the trigger, Mayne  blocking for London Seaward. 20 minutes left the visitors fighting hard at the back, Hubbard attacking left side, swinging a cross into the penalty spot, McKevitt up well to head the ball away for London Seaward. Simmons lively on the right linking up with Gillies, Harris snapping back at the ball to put it out for a throw.

Bella Simmons

GOAL! The break through comes for Cambridge, have been knocking on the door all through the 2nd half, Gillies on the right plays the ball inside to Wodhams who makes a driving run at the London Seaward defence right of the D 20 yards out players converging to close her down the ball blocked is deflected away across the top of the D, Stojko-Down finds herself in space running onto the loose ball and meets it sweetly rifling the ball beyond Baker into the top corner to score 1-0.

Build up to the opening goal, Alysha Stojko-Down moving to attack the loose ball

Took a wonder strike but the London Seaward defence is finally breached Cambridge with the lead, the visitors responding with a change, Cannon coming off to be replaced by Lily Aungier. London Seaward immediately look to force there way forwards, Harris determined on the left, comes off the worst in a 50/50 challenge with both Rouse and Simmons moving in to block the ball as the wingback goes to strike it. Harris getting the decision winning her side a free-kick. South to play the ball into the top of the area Cambridge defend.

 

  Harris brought off for London Seaward as the visitors send on Zainab El-Mouden, the game opening up a little. Hubbard from a throw on the left wins Cambridge a corner as her cross from the by-line is deflected behind. The corner curled in centrally, met by Jackson her header threatening to fly in under the bar, Baker once more with a fabulous save to tip the ball over for another corner.

 In from the right the ball is knocked down to the top of the area, falling for Hubbard can’t quite dig the ball out of her feet as London Seaward rush out to close her down, snatches her shot wide of the left post. The game opening up with London Seaward in need of an equaliser, Baker looks to be beaten as the shot from 20 yards out right of the D loops over her, the ball smashing against the crossbar drops down into the six yard box and is scrambled clear.

 London Seaward break away through the middle O’Brien striding on with the ball releasing Cianter out wide on the right presses for the corner before sending an angled ball low into the near post, Webb down to the floor to smother the ball. Edgar finding Simmons out on the right the Cambridge attacker sending the ball up the line for Wiltshire powers her way forwards dragging two London Seaward defenders with her before checking back inside leaving them in her wake as she turns into the box and strikes the ball goal-wards, Baker there down to make the save.

Cambridge’s Charlotte Gillies

  Jackson having picked up a slight knock for Cambridge coming off at the back in the closing stages of the game, with Gisela Otten coming on. The game stretched players tiring, Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the right side bursting into the area, McKevitt recovers well to get back at her lunging across her angled shot to block the ball turn it behind for a corner kick. 

  The game tense, Cambridge getting a little nervy, determined to hold onto there lead as London Seaward have to take a few risks get forwards themselves the pitch opening up. Edgar lining up a strike from all of 30 yards out, blasted straight at the keeper. Simmons with the ball on the right forwards into Wiltshire outside the box, lays it off for Wodhams pushing up from the middle, Malcolm sliding in to win the ball back for London Seaward top of the D.

  A 4th change for Cambridge with defender Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris coming on to replace Hubbard as the hosts look to see out the game. Into stoppage time seconds left, London Seaward winning a free-kick out on the right, send everyone forwards into the box including the keeper as South floats the ball into the mix, all happening as players look to attack the ball, the referee falling over too, the ball scrambled clear by Cambridge the break is on Gillies racing after the ball, Baker stranded in the wrong area, only South has a chance of catching the winger as she races back to her own goal looking to close the angle, Gillies taking a touch, putting her foot through the ball from distance sees the ball run wide of the right post.

Everyone into the Cambridge box for a last gasp free-kick

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 London Seaward FC 

 

 Alysha Stojko-Down with the 2nd half screamer, sealing the 3rd league win in a row for Cambridge as they pull themselves securely back into the jostle amongst the sides pushing for top spot in the division. Were made to work for it by a determined London Seaward who battled hard in defence for a long period in the 2nd half, Alex Baker with a number of saves keeping her side firmly in the game took a wonder strike to beat her. London Seaward return home frustrated with another narrow defeat, may well have had the lead in the 1st half, however Cambridge came out determined in the 2nd half, rarely letting their opponents out, players attacking looking for the opening, frustrated were knocking on the door the goal certainly a relief when it came back to back clean sheets too a positive start to 2025 London Seaward remain in the bottom two the gap to Chesham four points, will fight for every one with 7 games to go.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2025. This is certainly a tough one with several contenders and have to give both sides credit for their all round team performances. Firstly for London Seaward, the whole defence put in a shift, goalkeeper Alex Baker pulling off a number of top draw saves to frustrate Cambridge and keeper her side right in contention. Leila Awan with several positive runs in the first half especially looking to create openings. Sharne Harris fighting to the ball, defending out on the left with a number of vital tackles. For Cambridge the 3 at the back with less to do but still very well organised and marshalled the middle of the pitch well with Cambridge pushed up, Abbie Jackson adding a threat from set-pieces inside the box with a couple of good opportunities to score herself. Captain Eva Hubbard with several good runs forwards taking the ball out to the left and looking to pick out the strikers inside the box. Alysha Stojko-Down with a superb winning goal, found pockets of space to exploit throughout in a congested final 3rd. The award though goes to Bella Simmons, right form the off she was intent on winning the ball and drove continuously at London seaward back line linking up well with her fellow attackers, creating numerous opportunities.

  Good to be back a good match to start 2025, as intrigued as anyone to see who will emerge out on top on FAWNL South East Division One. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. A cold one but the layers did their job.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Actonians Ladies

Sunday 18th August

FAWNL South East Division One

  And just like that the new football season is here! Feels like that nut in truth I have enjoyed a good break away from the game over the close season. Needed it as I celebrated covering women’s football across the East for a decade. Has been alot of changes in that time, while quite a bit remains the same. The game continues to grow and with the new season beginning across tiers 3-6, national and regional level looks to be the most competitive it has ever been. Looking forward to the season ahead.

Beginning the football coverage with a game from FAWNL South East Division One, a trip to St Neots Town FC home of Cambridge United WFC as they take on Actonians Ladies in their opening match of the season. Representing tier 4 in the women’s football pyramid, South East Division One looks to be very strong this season. Norwich City Women finishing runners-up last season behind AFC Wimbledon Women are the favourites to clinch the title this time around. Who will be the other challenges remains to be seen, Worthing FC Women pushing the top two last campaign now moved across to South West Division One. Chatham Town Women relegated last season will be looking to bounce straight back, while London Bees have rebuild with a new squad following their relegation from tier 3. Real Bedford Ladies and Dulwich Hamlet Women the promoted sides, know little about the latter, however the former are ambitious with a new coach and new squad set to compete at a higher level. Others will fancy their chances and certainly today’s opponents are capable of competing amongst the clubs in the top half of the table.

Cambridge United WFC  have been a stalwart in South East Division One all through the FAWNL years and the Combination league before. Finishing 7th last season, a little disappointed with that finish nevertheless enjoyed a successful season the high being reaching the League Plate Final, and that despite suffering an injury hit campaign missing key players throughout the season. Into the new season Cambridge will use that cup run to galvanise the squad as they look to build on that run. A few players departing with a new crop of players joining the side.

  Welcomed back striker, Sarah Wiltshire towards the back end of the season after missing much of the season pregnant with her 3rd child. A prolific goal scorer leading Cambridge’s attack. Amongst those joining Cambridge this season, Eva Hubbard with rivals Cambridge City, after spells with Needham Market and Ipswich Town is a versatile player, experienced an a natural leader. Also coming in from Cambridge City, midfielder Rosy Wodhams another strong addition who has featured in a few Women’s Football East – Player of the Match summaries in the past. Defender, Ellie Finneran joins the club from London Seaward as does full back Kelsey Smith. Goalkeeper, Sophie Shults added from Ashford Town providing strong competition and cover that position. Emma Wallis another defensive addition joining from Middlesbrough. 

 Actonians Ladies like Cambridge have been a competitive force in South East Division One for a while now, often finishing in the top half of the table, punching above their weight at times capable of causing an upset. Have a strong set-up from youth level through to first team with a women’s Reserves and Development side competing too. Finishing in the top half of the table last campaign clinching 6th spot. 

 Actonians Ladies begin the new season under a new head coach with a host of new faces joining the club. Oliver Yazdi leading the 1st team coaching team this season has alot of experience coaching girls and women’s football leading into his new role at Actonians. Takes on a squad that sees 10 new signings tis season. Added to the attacking line up are strikers, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Defender, Olianna Bishop. Prudie Todd Warmoth can operate in both defence and midfield. New to the midfield are Hana Lalani, Dulcie Gray and Megan Page. Khyri Mackenzie, Merle Redhead Ling and Amanda Reimer complete the new additions.

 Cambridge United WFC winning all three encounters between the sides last season 2-1 twice at home in the league and away in the cup. With a 5-1 victory at Actonians in the reverse league encounter. St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the home for Cambridge United WFC these days. Situated in an ever growing residential are on the outskirts of the town. A grass pitched main facility with a 3G pitch beyond. The pitch in great shape as it always is. Offering good width the main stand housing the changing rooms and bar on one side with small covered terracing behind each goal with viewing all round. A bright sunny day with no rain forecast early twenties a good day to start the new season.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis, Kelsey Smith, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Sammy Edgar, Rosy Wodhams, Eva Hubbard (C), Alysha Stojko-Down & Bella Simmons. Subs :- Abbie Jackson, Charlotte Gillies, Marta Rodriguez & Holly Plummer.

Cambridge United WFC

 Actonians Ladies starting XI – Elisa Dogor, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Amber Dredge, Mara Bramwell (C), Jennie Brereton, Naomi Graham, Hana Lalani, Amina Hanif, Merle Redhead Ling, Dior Knorr & Abigail Igbavboa. Subs :- Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Khyri Mackenzie, Dulcie Gray & Keishia-Farah Luboya.

Actonians Ladies

  A blow for Cambridge in there final pre-season game last weekend with Sarah Wiltshire breaking her arm seeing her out of action for a little while. Four of Cambridge’s new signings debuting in the starting line-up, defenders Kelsey Smith and Emma Wallis with Rosy Wodhams in the midfield alongside new captain Eva Hubbard. Five of Actonians new faces in their starting line-up, Prudie Todd Warmoth, Merle Redhead Ling, Hana Lalani, Dior Knorr and Abigail Igbavboa. Along with Olianna Bishop, Megan Page, Dulcie Gray and Khyri Mackenzie on the subs bench. 

Captains Mara Bramwell and Eva Hubbard with todays match officials

  It’s Cambridge to get the new campaign under way kicking off the 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Actonians line-up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle clipped long out to the right wing with Kelsey Smith looknig to get up the line, Prudie Todd Warmoth covering that side at the back for Actonians defending to see the ball out of play for a throw in. From the resulting throw Cambridge gain a free-kick presenting them with an early opportunity to get players up into their opponents box, the ball swept in with pace at a decent high, Mara Bramwell captaining Actonians the centre back meeting the ball with a firm headed clearance.

  Actonians look to counter with pace midfielder Amina Hanif bringing the ball into her feet looking up to play the ball over the Cambridge defence with Merle Redhead Ling providing a left channel run in behind, Cambridge goalkeeper Lauren Webb positioned at the top of her area out to the ball quickly to deal with the threat. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris providing the width for Cambridge on the left looking to get up the pitch with pace run onto any long pass out of the defence, Jennie Brereton coming across to close her down winning the ball back for the visitors.

  Cambridge with a positive start looking to move the ball forwards quickly use the flanks keep Actonians pinned back. Eva Hubbard onto the ball in the middle for Cambridge has Rosy Wodhams to her right picks her out with the pass Wodhams in turn sending it out to the wing with Wallis bombing on sends a looping ball into the Actonians box dropping far post six yards out Alysha Stojko-Down attacking it, Brereton gets across her to make the challenge deny her the shot. 

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

 Gisela Otten with the ball under her control at the back for Cambridge plays a delightful long pass up the left flank for Cheal-Ferris to run onto to taking it on whips a cross into the six yard box, Actonians goalkeeper, Elisa Dogor getting her gloves behind it on the bounce, snatches it up in the nick of time with Stojko-Down stealing in. A competitive collective of players operating in the midfield, little quarter given, Amina Hanif bringing Wodhams down 30 yards out as she looks to get away with the ball on the right.

  Abigail Igbavboa and Dior Knorr look to combine in attack on the left side for Actonians the former sending the ball on for Knorr, Lauren Rouse getting in the headed clearance before the attacker can take the ball in behind her into the box. Dogor coming out to the left of her area to deal with the ball is closed down by Bella Simmons charging the ball down steals it away from the keeper playing in across the top of the area looking for Stojko-Down, can’t get it out from under her feet as Dogor recover diving in front of her to lay claim to the ball.

   Sammy regaining the ball in the middle for Cambridge on for Hubbard into Simmons has Stojko-Down moving right receiving the pass, Hanif getting a leg out to win the ball back for Actonians 20 yards out. A lively opening 15 minutes, Kelsey Smith’s turn to play the pass up the line for Cheal-Ferris left side, Brereton again across to support, Redhead Ling in defence. Naomi Graham battling for possession in midfield looking to hold of Edgar, ends up fouling the Cambridge midfielder 30 plus yards out in a central position, Stojko-Down has a crack at goal lifts her shot over the crossbar.

Actonians, Hana Lalani battling for possession with Cambridge’s Sammy Edgar

  Actonians defending their box pushed back inviting Cambridge on still look a threat on the counter attack and are ready to pounce at any opportunity, Knorr coming to the left to receive the ball from Amber Dredge turns, fouled by Wallis winning a free-kick out wide, the delivery fired in with pace towards the near post through everyone, Webb though is right behind it takes the ball into her midriff as she falls forwards. Cambridge’s turn to break with pace the ball played out to Smith left side sends a fantastic ball into the left channel for Simmons to take into her path running into the area strikes the shot on the angle across the face of the Actonians goal wide at the far post.

Bella Simmons holding off Actonians, Prudie Todd Warmoth

  Igbavboa receiving the ball from Lalani in the middle attacks on the right strong on the ball turns inside to play the ball into the mix top of the Cambridge area, half cleared comes onto Graham 25 yards out strikes the ball her effort blocked. Hanif sending the ball out to the left for Actonians, Dredge on for Knorr the cross lifted into the box, Redhead Ling on the penalty spot, Smith in front of her winning the ball heading behind for Cambridge to concede the corner. On the left taken short as Hanif comes towards the taker payed back up the line for the cross to come in from deep, Webb taking it cleanly at the near post.

  Tempers flaring a decision going against Actonians, Dredge show a yellow card and sent to the sin bin for apparently throwing the ball away. The visitors to play the next 10 minutes with a player disadvantage. Knorr strong with the ball for Actonians turns well in attack looking to get in behind the defence, Otten recovering well diving in to win the ball with a well timed tackle. 25 minutes played a drinks break called.

  Cambridge struggling to make their player advantage count as Actonians get everyone behind the ball, Edgar upended top of the central circle winning the hosts a free-kick. Played into the box, finds its way through to the keeper. Hubbard with the ball central plays it on for Stojko-Down right channel has Wodhams advancing past her on the overlaps rolls the ball into her her strike from outside the box charged down the deflection taking it behind for a Cambridge corner. 

Rosy Wodhams

 Cheal-Ferris to curl the ball in from the right dropping beyond the far post Simmons stooping to attack it with her head drives the ball down into the ground at the post, Dogor across her line to knock the ball away for a corner on the left. Again the delivery is long beyond the far post attacked by two Cambridge players, a clash of heads as the ball is cleared outside the box, Wodhams looking to latch onto the shot, Hanif out quickly to making the blocking tackle before play is stopped to access the injured players.

Actonians midfielder, Amina Hanif

 Cambridge pressing looking for a goal getting on with the ball, Actonians marshalling their box well, remains a tussle in the middle, Edgar carded for a foul on Lalani. The game a little scrappy as Actonians defend looking to get Dredge back on the pitch with her 10 minutes up. Cambridge seeing the ball into Simmons off a throw high on the left looks to take take the cross down beyond the far post and take the shot on the turn from the angle places the ball wide as she sends the shot across the goal.

Bella Simmons with Hana Lalani

  Cheal-Ferris seeing a shot blocked from 30 yards out as she receives the past in a central position from the right. The hosts looking the most likely to open the scoring Igbavboa and Knorr though patient up top ready to attack should the opportunity arise for the visitors. A flowing move from Cambridge through the middle Hubbard up to Stojko-Down has Simmons out to the right lays the ball into her Simmons in turn looking to play the return ball into Stojko-Down as she runs into the D, Brereton lunging in to make the challenge before a shot can be unleashed.

  Cambridge winning another set-piece out wide on the left Hubbard to play the ball into the box and a good pace and height towards the far post Wodhams getting up well to header the ball back towards goal turned behind a corner signalled. Bramwell defending the corner for Actonians look to counter Lalani with Hanif, can’t quite get the ball into Igbavboa. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the 1st half.

 GOAL! Cambridge pressing for a goal at the end of the half Actonians hit their opponents on the counter, Knorr looking a threat he ball played into her in the middle takes it down of her chest well knocking it on and bursting into space on the right acing in behind heading for the box, Webb coming out to close her down one and one with the keeper, Knorr with a composed strike sending the shot past the diving keeper, and on into the goal beyond, letting out a roar in celebration as she opens her account for Actonians putting them into the lead! 0-1.

Dior Knorr bringing the ball down setting up her chance to score the opening goal for Actonians

Dior Knorr opens her Actonians Ladies account

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

  That the final action of the first half, Actonians jubilant as they head into the changing rooms in the lead the goal coming on the stroke of half-time. Have looked dangerous on the counter throughout many of their attacks coming from such moves as they defended deep inviting Cambridge on at times. The hosts arguably creating the better chances with out being clinical, but that’s football for you. Actonians have worked hard at the back and in the middle to break up Cambridge’s attacks the hosts using the width looking to get players on through the middle a positive first half without the reward. Actonians with a vital lead with something hold onto 2nd half and with that advantage can use their counter attacks wisely.

  The players out for the 2nd half, neither making any changes as Actonians get the 2nd 45 underway. Hanif sending the ball up to Igbavboa in attack, Hubbard in to win the ball back for Cambridge. On for Wodhams the midfielder fouled as she looks to take the ball forwards. Hanif winning the ball back for Actonians plays a diagonal ball from deep on the left into the area, Rouse heading the ball back into the middle or Cambridge, Igbavboa looking to run onto the ball, shoot, Wodhams diving in to make a good blocking tackle. 

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris ringing the ball on for Cambridge

  Cambridge moving the ball into the right channel, Simmons pulling away getting onto the ball sweeping a cross in towards the top of the area. Cheal-Ferris looking to see it down of her chest at the far post, slips as she goes to take the shot, Actonians scrambling the ball away. Todd Warmoth holding Simmons up in the right corner as Wallis plays the ball on down the flank for Cambridge, Bramwell coming across to help her teammate out. 

Actonians Naomi Graham

 

 Wodhams in to win the ball high for Cambridge sends the pass into Simmons right takes on the early cross blocked inside the box, Cambridge appealing for a handball, nothing doing. Remains as competitive in the middle as ever Igbavboa back to defend fouling Wodhams top of the circle. The free-kick clipped up into the area Cheal-Ferris up on the six yard line to head the ball up over the advancing keeper, towards goal however, Bramwell is back on the cover to head the ball off the line. 

Actonians captain, Mara Bramwell

 Actonians with an attack Redhead Ling released out on the right powering forwards cuts the ball back inside for Hanif to strike on the angle, blasts her strike into the side netting. Cambridge continue to press the attack passes forwards rushed at times Actonians solid in defence deep not allowing any gaps in behind. The visitors clear the ball at the back Graham up to Redhead Ling on the right driving forwards is on her own does well to win her side a corner. Lifted into the near side Hanif gets up well to head the ball turning it down into the mix, blocked Actonians turn to appeal and this time the referee points to the spot for a handball despite Cambridge’s protests.

Lalani placing the ball on the spot for Actonians an opportunity to double their advantage takes the run up and sends the spot kick up over the cross bar much to her dismay.

Hana Lalani with her head in her hands as she sends the penalty over

  The game more scrappy in the 2nd half, Cambridge with a desire to get the ball forwards quickly, Actonians determined to stop it at every opportunity, Hanif covering alot of ground across the park getting after the ball the most likely to free up her attackers. Cambridge making a change bringing off Otten at the back bringing on Marta Rodriguez to join the attack, the switch seeing Cambridge go to a back 4. Simmons putting the ball on for Wodhams as she breaks forwards into the right channel her cross into the area taking a deflection of Graham to see it safely claimed by Dogor in goal beyond. 

  Hanif winning the ball in the middle for Actonians as usual looking to release the attackers, Knorr central just straying offside as she breaks in behind. Knorr seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right channel has Redhead Ling moving up the wing the ball rolled into her her cross blocked by Smith for Cambridge. Lively as Edgar puts the ball into Stojko-Down 25 yards out hooks it on looking for Simmons, Brereton getting her head on the ball to clear Actonians with the counter attack Redhead Ling racing away with the ball on the right sweeping a cross into the near post claimed high by Webb.

  Actonians break up another Cambridge attack turn play around Hanif with a great diagonal ball into Knorr bursting away on the right channel running towards the top of the area, clear Webb comes rushing out to meet her sliding in at her feet to make the save turn the ball away for a corner kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Comes to nothing as a 2nd drinks break is called. Hot out there and both sides are working hard Actonians resilient in defence frustrating their opponents. Play resumes Cambridge getting the ball on the left on for Rodriguez has Wodhams breaking on to get into the box ahead of her the ball lifted forwards, Bramwell getting to it first to head clear for Actonians. Gaps at the back with Cambridge pushing on Knorr looking to exploit it as the ball runs into her path driving on down the right Webb comes rushing out once again can’t get there the ball played across the area, Lalani closing in at the far post, Rouse manages to find the extra yard to dive in take the ball away from her.

Cambridge defender, Lauren Rouse with the last ditch tackle

  Wodhams taking the ball on right for Cambridge on for Simmons the cross into the area won by Bramwell. Cambridge with a throw on the left knocked on into the D falling to Wodhams goes to strike the ball inside the D, Todd Warmoth charging it down for Actonians. Cambridge pushing hard for an equaliser, Edgar in the middle with a neat past into Wallis on the right 30 out takes on the shot a low drive, Dogor on her line right behind it to make the stop.

Cambridge midfielder Sammy Edgar

  Actonians with a double change bringing on Olianna Bishop and Khyri Mackenzie for their debuts off come Todd Warmoth and Igbavboa. The substitutes linking up straight away Bishop forwards for Mackenzie the latter strong on the ball holding off a challenge sending the cross-field ball into Knorr right side, Webb seeing the threat out sharply to the edge of her area to slide in lay claim to the ball.

  Knorr receiving the ball from Hanif on the attack left channel surging into the box, closing in on the near post Webb stands up to her making the blocking save. Actonians remain compact difficult to break down Bramwell leading the defence well deep but winning crosses. Hubbard fires over from all of 25 yards out for Cambridge as she links up with Edgar through the middle. The game moving into the final 10 minutes. Edgar out to Wallis advancing on the right, turns inside her marker to deliver the cross into the area, Bramwell winning the header for Actonians.

Cambridge captain, Eva Hubbard

  Cambridge pressing hard Bishop tackling Simmons on the right conceding the throw. Simmons 25 yards out seeing the ball into her feet strikes it on the turn the low effort put straight at the keeper. Knorr strong with the ball at her feet powering on down the right fires a vicious cross into the Cambridge six yard box, Wallis with the last ditch tackle to prevent the ball being turned into the back of the net. 

 The clock ticking down Cambridge bringing the ball on Simmons central out to Wodhams moving right down the line plays it back up to Wallis to play into the top of the area Stojko-Down meeting it her looping header dropping wide taking a deflection the corner awarded. Frantic defending in the box as the ball comes in Bramwell with 3 blocks in quick succession twice with her head as Cambridge look to turn the ball home inside the six yard box, then blocks with her feet as Hubbard gets a shot away from the penalty spot turned out to the left post off the keeper for another corner. 

 Cambridge sending on Charlotte Gillies to join the attack in the closing stages Wallis with a slight knock coming off. Actonians determined with the ball looking to run it into the corner. Tired legs out there as Cambridge get the ball back up the right for Gillies plays it across the top of the area looking for Rodriguez on the opposite side, Redhead Ling finding the energy to get past the attacker to get hold of the ball inside the box. Actonians fighting till the end get their campaign off to a winning start, Knorr’s finish late in the first half the difference.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Actonians Ladies

  Actonians with a determined and resilient performance at the back seeing them win the 3 points to get their season up and running. Kept it compact throughout soaking up alot of pressure breaking away to score the all important winner in the first half, that gave them vital confidence and belief to go onto defend their goal in the 2nd period and hopefully take another chance if it fell their way. A competitive tussle throughout Cambridge with a positive start taking the game to Actonians using the pitch well getting players forwards came up against a opponent prepared to drop deep not relinquish any space in behind. For all there attacks never had clinical edge to unlock the door, Actonians mostly attacking on the counter taking the chance when they had it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season and as is often the case is another tough call. I certainly had a contender in mind leaving the ground and haven’t changed my mind despite a couple of other players putting themselves in contention as the notes from the report unfolded (I write too many notes I know, but it’s the players fault they create the drama, and it’s great drama!) A few performances to mention firstly for Cambridge a strong debut for Rosy Wodhams in the middle of the park winning the ball and looking to make attacking runs. Bella Simmons in attack coming for the ball created an number of opportunities. Gisela Otten, Emma Wallis and Lauren Rouse all making vital tackles at the back. Actonians with a goal and a clean sheet put in a strong defensive performance kept it compact at the back with good back up from their midfield. Mara Bramwell strong in defence winning the ball throughout. Dior Knorr in attack took her goal well patient up top making some dangerous runs on the counter. Today’s award goes to midfielder, Amina Hanif covered alot of ground getting about the pitch to win and close the ball down and more often than not it was her vision and passes that led to Actonians launching their counter attacks with such venom.

 Great to be back and a fantastic game from the FAWNL to start the season promises to be a great campaign ahead. More teams to see in action than there are weekends to cover them. Doesn’t matter how many off these reports I write I still get nervous but once the notes start flowing it all falls into place. My thanks to both clubs for the help with the team details today as ever much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v QPR FC Women

Sunday 5th November

FAWNL South East Division One

 A trip into Suffolk this bonfire Sunday to the MEL Group Stadium to watch some match action from FAWNL South East Division One, with newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women taking on Queens Park Rangers Women.

  The 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid getting stronger and more competitive season upon season and promotion into is not an easy challenge. AFC Sudbury Women though reaching this level for the 1st time in their history off back to back league title in the ERWFL.

  Playing in the 6th tier just two season’s ago the club has undergone a lot of changes in it’s recent history integrated into the club with AFC Sudbury setting up an academy for the girls side of the game as well as the boys, that has seen a crop of very talented young players come through to feature for the club, coming out of a highly competitive ERWFL Division One South with a host of clubs involved all the way to the finish to clinch the title and promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division.

Sudbury’s model very much based on bringing their young academy players through their young side hit the ground running in the ERWFL Premier Division, pushing the title contenders all the way to emerge on top of the pack to claim back to back promotions, top scorers in the league too with Holly Kennard, who has recently joined Norwich City Women netting 25 goals in 25 appearances and Jess Allen returning from a spell in the US notching up 17 from the 16 games she featured in. Back to back promotions to reach the FAWNL for the 1st time in the clubs history a huge step up and a bi test for their young squad, have stuck to their guns however giving them their chance to shine, a steep learning curve taking just a single point from their opening 4 matches before notching up their 1st win at home to Haywards heath Town Ladies. A further 2 draws sandwiched between another loss are starting to find their feet and know what the league is all about.

  Queens Park Rangers Women gaining promotion back to the FAWNL in 2021 after having to regroup with their former Development side in regional football following the 1st team’s playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division split that saw the formation of a totally new club. Much of the 1st team staying under the QPR badge to fight their way back into the FAWNL, strong on their return finishing 4th in the table. A mid-table finish last time out winning as many as they lost, that inconsistency has been the feature of this campaign to having played 8, have won 4 and lost 4 with their last 4 league matches all ending in 2-1 scores, winning 2 and losing 2, get a run of wins going and the West London club are well placed in the table to threaten the top 4. Signing Grace Stanley from Cambridge City Women during the last campaign the striker is top scorer so far this season with 9 goals from 9 appearances.

  Storm Ciaran bringing yet another wave of heavy rain across the country in the week leading into Saturday the flood plains leading into Sudbury full the river level high, a possible threat to the match, otherwise played on an artificial surface, the rain easing off water encroaching into the stadium behind the terraced stand opposite the clubhouse and onto the walk way and partially the home dug out the pitch raised however so no problem and whereas I usually migrate around that side of the ground to watch the match thankfully headed in the opposite direction so I didn’t have to paddle through the water. The women’s matches popular at Sudbury, the bar open with a special on today, curry and a pint for £10. Still settled for a cup of tea and a cheeseburger with the kitchen hatch open too. The sun doing it’s best to poke through the clouds bright at times, chilly when obscured.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Amelia Carter, Amber Proven, Kayleigh Dodd, Ronni Harrison (C), Aliyat Lambe, Leonnie Bezant, Maisie Goodwin, Phoebe Guiver, Sophie Jeffery, Jess Allen & Kate Edwards. Subs – Jodie Donley, Learna Daniels, Chloe Brame, Evie Creaton & Kiera Harms.

Queens Park Rangers Women

QPR FC Women starting XI – Nicole Melling, Alice Curr, Renai McCrea, Joanna Blodgett, Georgie Lewin, Emily Hill. Katie Akerman, Kasha Petit (C), Izzy Owen, Ellie Searle & Grace Stanley. Subs – Ailish Carolan, Emilia Parsons Frankie Webster, Zoe Cohen & Grace Shephard.

Captains, Kasha Petit and and Ronni Harrison with the match officials

 

A change of ends before kick-off with Sudbury putting the low sun at their backs the cloud cover disperses. QPR to have the kick-off first half wearing their away colours red and black striped shirts with black shorts and socks with Sudbury opposite in their usual colours, yellow shirts with blue shorts and yellow socks. The ball laid back into midfield, the clipped past long to the left sees Ellie Searle charging on to attack it, Kayleigh Dodd doing the defending for Sudbury seeing the ball out for a throw. The visitors looking to get on the front foot right from the start harrying the ball in the middle out to Renai McCrea on the left links up with Searle and Grace Stanley in attack the cross charged down spins away for another throw.

Sudbury’s Leonnie Bezant with QPR’s Izzy Owen

McCrea getting after the ball central as she tracks inside form the left laid forwards into Izzy Owen plays the ball into the right wing for captain Kasha Petit, Sudbury’s captain Ronni Harrison coming out to close her down defending for the hosts. QPR winning a free-kick on the halfway line, Georgie Lewin to flight a ball long into the area, Harrison putting her foot through it to clear for Sudbury. A lively tempo to the game both sides snapping at the ball Sudbury with Leonnie Bezant playing the pass forwards into Kate Edwards in attack looks for Jess Allen coming inside from the left, Joanna Blodgett getting a foot in to win the ball back the visitor look to counter rapidly with the past long for Searle in the clear on the left, her progress though halted by the raised flag of the linesman.

Sudbury attacker, Kate Edwards

Sudbury release Sophie Jeffery on their right to take the ball on into the corner, doing a step over to shift inside her marker, Lewin gets the challenge in the knock the ball out of her path, Bezant up with play snatching the ball back pushed into Jeffery wide, swings a cross into the QPR six yard box, Blodgett up to head clear. This is a lively game all action both side getting the ball on quickly can’t take your eyes off it for a second. Petit looking to get away on the right but Harrison is across to cut her off again clear the ball for a throw in.

Phoebe Guiver win the ball in the middle for Sudbury, rides the lunging tackle for Emily Hill before being chopped down by Katie Akerman the QPR midfield shown a early yellow card. The free-kick in half-way. The ball lifted forwards seen out safely by QPR, but put under pressure from the goal-kick give away a throw high up the pitch. Sudbury competing well looking to put the QPR defence under pressure as they are drawn out, Edwards and Allen pressuring the ball at the back, Edwards releases Allen the take the ball in behind strikes from distance her shot not troubling QPR goalkeeper, Nicole Melling.

Maisie Goodwin, with Guiver getting the ball on through the middle for Sudbury getting players up around the QPR box rolled into Bezant inside the D, her shot is charged down, the rebound coming to Allen to the left of the box, again her 1st time hit is blocked. Petit down with a knock for QPR a pause in play while she receives treatment. The wind having some bite to it now as the sun disappears behind the clouds. Play resuming with a drop ball, put out to Jeffery on the right, she hooks a looping all into the area, Blodgett getting a slight touch to deflect the ball away from the on coming attack, Melling’s claim it high behind her.

QPR’s Georgie Lewin

Alice Curr advancing on the right for QPR on for Petit, Amber Proven challenging the ball out for a thro high up the pitch the visitors get it down well to cross into the near post, Dodd getting their to clear for Sudbury. A chance for QPR to open the scoring as Sudbury are guilty of giving the ball away in the final 3rd central the through ball putting Searle into the box left of the D, taking it on towards the six yard box the angle closing she pulls her strike wide across the face of goal.

QPR’s Alice Curr

Harrison coming across to close Petit down as she gets clear on the right, the ball going behind Harrison and the Sudbury bench incredulous as a corner is given against them. A looping in swinger put in at the near post Sudbury goalkeeper, Amelia Carter jumping to punch the ball away back out to the right the corner taker rolling it back for Curr 25 yards out on the angle strikes the ball, blocked inside the area.

Getting a little testy out there a few clumsy tackles, McCrea getting the advantage as she is clipped going forwards looking for Searle left, Aliyat Lambe coming out to close her down for Sudbury. Lewin with a vital interception for QPR at the back and Sudbury build quickly through the middle. The QPR centre backs again under pressure as Sudbury turn play around playing it through the middle for Edwards racing forwards, Lewin and Blodgett racing back too, one getting the touch to push it on for Melling to launch clear.

Aliyat Lambe clearing the ball for Sudbury

If anything Sudbury are getting a little too excited as they reach the final 3rd, the final pass not quite on it’s mark giving QPR the chance to claim and get going in the opposite direction. Little time dwelled on the ball. 20 minutes gone a competitive match lively QPR with the ball on the left rolled back to McCrea with Dodd coming to close her down on the touchline the full back tangling as McCrea looks to dart past Dodd both holding onto each other shirt, Dodd thrown onto her back as the momentum is with McCrea. Dodd having the wind knocked out of her opposite the QPR dugout the Sudbury bench not happy as no action is taken against McCrea, the physio treating Dodd, they both had hold of one another, had the momentum been with Dodd then it’d be McCrea on her arse right now. As it is another long pause in play with Owen also needing treatment for QPR, Sudbury questioning the referee about the incident. Play resuming with a throw to QPR.

GOAL! Whether the incident unsettled Sudbury can be argued, but straight away they concede the ball not dealt with as it it threaded down the left wing for Searle to take in behind turning into the area along the by-line plays it into the six yard box with Stanley waltzing in central to tap home her 10th goal of the season to give the visitors the lead. 0-1.

Grace Stanley with her 10th goal of the season opening the scoring for QPR.

Proven feeding the ball on for Allen on the left closing in n the corner tracking inside towards the box, can’t capitalise with the cross as it is cut out by Blodgett. QPR push bodies forwards as they build through the middle Petit putting it right for Curr to lay inside for Stanley taking it on into the box right of the D, angles the ball back in across the penalty spot, played behind Akerman as she surges forwards, Dodd clearing for Sudbury.

Sudbury’s Sophie Jeffery

Sudbury getting caught in possession putting them under pressure at the back, Akerman sending the pass forwards for Searle advancing on the left squared into Stanley top left corner of the box, Bezant tracking back from midfield to challenge for Sudbury, possession though quickly lost the ball back with Searle on the right flashed into the box, Harrison scrambling it clear for the hosts. McCrea coming inside from the left on half-way playing a great threaded ball into Pettit in the right channel that sees her sneak in behind the Sudbury defence, Carter off her line rapidly to slide in and clear at the attackers feet.

Sudbury’s Phoebe Guiver

Again the Sudbury bench are livid as McCrea clatters into Guiver, with on action taken. Petit finding Stanley with the past up top the striker shooting over from outside the box to the right of goal. Lambe and Dodd both making good challenges at the back as QPR press up on the left with McCrea getting on well to support the attack.

Guiver carrying the ball on through the middle for Sudbury passes into Edwards ahead of her she in turn lays the ball into Allen racing in behind the defence on the right channel bearing down on the area, Melling racing out to close her down, going to ground, Allen shoots, the QPR keeping saving with her trailing foot, scrambling back up to her feet as Edwards races onto the loose ball 20 yards out trying to put it into the exposed goal, Blodgett back-peddling into her own six yard box able to intercept. A golden chance for Sudbury to equalise.

Sudbury’s Jess Allen

McCrea fouling Allen giving the hosts a free-kick wide on the right, Dodd to play the ball into the area dropping central Melling leaping doesn’t get much on it the ball out to the top of the area knocked back in Curr with the block for QPR the ball deflected behind, Sudbury furious when they don’t get the corner.

Blodgett is fouled by Allen as she looks to shield the ball out of play from a Bezant pass from the middle. Lewin bringing the ball on from the back for the visitors plays the pass to Searle breaking away wide left her cross whipped into the area defended by Harrison put behind for a corner kick. Sudbury defend the corner and look to break Edwards trying to play Allen in behind, Lewin stretching a leg to intercept the ball.

The Sudbury bench incensed once more as Bezant sends a great ball on for Allen long on the right the attacker getting back to it on the by-line to wrap her foot around the ball to lift in a cross, McCrea tracking back trying to block looks to have struck her arm as it knocked behind for the corner. The corner dropped into the mix drilled wide of the right post. The first half moving into stoppage time QPR on the attack, Hill forwards into Petit plays the ball into the area for Stanley right of goal cuts it back to the top of the area to be hit by the advancing Akerman her strike racing wide of the far post.

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-1 QPR FC Women

  That was a fast paced and competitive first half some good chances created, QPR getting off to a positive start, getting the ball wide pressing players on taking the lead midway through the half, Sudbury missing a great chance to level. Both sides guilty of having sloppy periods in possession, the game often rushed, Sudbury in particular not quite finding the mark with the final pass, nevertheless competitive has been an exciting first 45 and with a single goal in it all to play for.

Chilly now with the sun low and the floodlights on as the teams emerge for the 2nd half, no changes with Sudbury getting the game restarted the ball rolled back into the middle, the diagonal ball forwards to the right the QPR defence seeing it out. Bezant latching onto the ball driving on through the middle for Sudbury, Akerman tackling, McCrea launching it up to Stanley up top on her own gets up well to head the ball down into the D, but lacking a runner to take it on, Lambe is untroubled as she clears the ball. The visitors snapping at the ball inside the Sudbury half, Hill with Petit out to Searle high on the left her low cross claimed by Carter.

GOAL! QPR with the ball inside the Sudbury half Petit plays it into Akerman who opens up her body to slot an inch perfect pass into the feet of Searle as she steals inside her marker to race into the area left of goal and send it under the advancing keeper as she rushes out to close her down to score, 0-2.

Ellie Searle played through to double QPR’s lead at the start of the 2nd half

The perfect start to the 2nd half for QPR as they double the lead, while delivering a huge blow to Sudbury at the same time. The ball given away inside their own half, Sudbury are on the back foot straight away as Owen drive through the centre towards the D for QPR, Dodd getting the tackle in to take the ball out of her feet send it behind for a corner kick on the right. The corner taken short before the cross is delivered, the ball knocked down towards goal Carter dropping out her left to save it doesn’t know the flag has been raised for an offside.

Allen bursting on right side after the ball striking it on the half volley her angled effort straight into Melling’s midriff. Dodd getting back at Searle on the left to tackle as the winger threatens to run in behind to cross, the visitors snapping back to regain possession, Akerman trying her luck from distance sending the shot over the bar. Sudbury make the first change of the game bring off Guiver, on comes Evie Creaton. The substitute involved straight away in a triangle on the right with Edwards and Bezant, the attempted ball into the area intercepted by Lewin for QPR.

Allen looking to make something happen for Sudbury driving on with the ball on the right before being tackled winning her side a corner kick. Lopped in to the near post, Lewin is up with a firm header to knock it back out towards the taker, then races out to press the ball well. Goodwin linking up with Bezant in the middle rolled on for Edwards who clips it to the right of the D for Creaton, she flicks it into the box turning to chase it wide to the right of goal, Melling sprinting over to throw herself on the ball.

Lewin busy for QPR at the back getting out to close down Allen as she comes left to attack the ball. Another stoppage in play with Creaton going down needing treatment. QPR have won a corner on the right as play resumes played deep towards the far post 10 yards out knocked down towards goal, Carter diving left to get down to save push the ball out past her left post then makes another blocking save on her knees as Owen tries to turn the ball in at the near post.

Sudbury get up the other end with pace as Allen wins her side a corner kick, Creaton allowed back on. QPR defending clearing the ball out of their box, Akerman taking it forwards playing it on into Petit who smashes a shot over from range. Sudbury make a change bringing Edwards off, Chloe Brame coming on. Stanley with the ball right corner of the area sends in central to Hill inside the D, shifts to go left before pulling the trigger, Goodwin blocking for Sudbury the ball deflected behind her, Harrison clearing to concede the corner kick. Played in from the left Bezant clearing near side.

QPR’s Joanna Blodgett

66 minutes played Sudbury making a double substitution taking off Dodd and Lambe at the back Learna Daniels ad Jodie Donley coming on. Harrison defends as Hill bringing the ball on into the left channel looks to play Searle in to cross. Petit fouls Jeffery inside the QPR half the free-kick top of the centre circle the ball defended headed out to the right with Searle then holding of Brame as she looks to gather and drive towards the area.

GOAL! Defending a corner at one end QPR break through the middle Akerman charging on with the ball, has Petit and Stanley ahead of her racing to get clear of the Sudbury defence, the pass putting the ball on into Stanley’s path heading into the box right of the D bearing down on goal. Carter comes rushing out to try and close her down going to ground Stanley slots the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to make it 0-3.

Grace Stanley with her 2nd of the game to see QPR lead 3-0

Stretching their lead QPR making a double change as they take of Petit and Curr, send on Emily Parsons and Zoe Cohen. Sudbury conceding a 3rd goal frustrated haven’t been able to get going in the 2nd half picking up another injury as QPR prepare a triple substitution. Brame needs to come off for Sudbury too, Kiera Harms coming on. Ailish Carolan, Frankie Webster and Grace Shephard onto the pitch for QPR replacing Stanley, Akerman and McCrea. QPR winning a free-kick on the right 35 yards out.

GOAL! Blodgett over the set-piece strikes a high ball into the area, runners breaking in towards the penalty spot to meet it, one of those Parsons only on the pitch for a few minutes she gets her head onto the ball to send a bullet of a header over the keeper before she can react into the goal beyond 0-4.

Substitute Emilia Parsons heading home to make it 4-0

QPR with a strong grip on the game with less than 15 minutes of regular play left, Harrison pushed up into the middle for Sudbury as the hosts win a free-kick 30 yards out, the captain over it herself strikes the ball in towards goal a comfortable catch for Melling. Hill sending the ball up to Parsons back to goal 25 out looks to turn it into the path of Shephard racing forwards, she can’t quite take it in her stride as she enters the box allowing Sudbury to clear. 

Harrison playing the ball on for Bezant the midfield lifting a great pass forwards for Harms to bring down under control top of the area, he progress halted though by the offside flag. Webster up ended inside the Sudbury half the set-piece seeing players go forwards, Hill up to knock the ball down into the box, before being struck wide of Carter’s left post. Bezant clipping a neat pass out to the left with Allen taking it down outside the area looking to shift onto her right foot and shoot, Blodgett putting the blocking tackle in.

The game getting a little ragged as it enters stoppage time several niggly challenges QPR playing with composure, hasn’t been Sudbury’ afternoon the hosts frustrated nothing working going forwards, play quickly turned around. The hosts with one last chance to get players up into the area winning a free-kick on the right, the ball won though by Hill cleared for Owen to break forwards pulls up suffering from cramp. The job done however the final whistle blowing QPR leaving Suffolk with the 3 points in the bag.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 0-4 QPR FC Women

  The win lifting QPR up into 5th place. Coming out on top in the 2nd half after a reasonably even 1st half. Making a few tweaks to the side came out fast in the 2nd half getting at Sudbury to quickly double their lead, a blow for Sudbury who will want to put that half behind them, never got going, QPR performing well to frustrate them winning the ball and turning play around creating chances Stanley put clear to make it 3, wit substitute Parsons burying her header to make it 4-0.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a tight call yet again with some strong performers out there. A few performances of note to mention. For Sudbury Leonnie Bezant was strong in the middle especially 1st half winning her tackles and showing a good range of pass that on another day would threaten to unlock a defence. Captain Ronni Harrison defending well at the back getting across to defend and read the game as QPR turned play around. For QPR, Ellie Searle was a constant threat out on the left, looking to get in behind to cross the ball, played in to score their 2nd early in the 2nd half. Katie Akerman came into her own in midfield as the game wore on getting into some great positions driving forwards with  fantastic assists. Today’s award though goes to defender Georgie Lewin, a powerful display at the back winning the ball and bringing it out of defence, making several interceptions which played a large part in frustrating their opponents.

Great to be back at the MEL Group Stadium to watch Sudbury play in the FAWNL as frustrating afternoon for sure, but still a long way to go and will fight all the way to ensure they retain their new found FAWNL status. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details, the nature of the league this time of year just one more league game scheduled for QPR, Sudbury with too will both be looking to end the year on a positive note.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 15th October

FAWNL South East Division One

Derby match action this weekend on Women’s Football East a trip to Haverhill to watch the Cambridge showdown between Cambridge City Women and Cambridge United Women in FAWNL South East Division One.

 Originally set to be the season opener, the game postponed due to the not so small matter of the Lionesses reaching the World Cup final. A historic day for women’s football in the country and testament to how much the game has grown in recent times. The FAWNL representing tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid the talent playing with in it getting stronger season upon season. Along with it the challenges clubs face to remain competitive and succeed.

 Cambridge City Ladies promoted to the FAWNL back in 2019 after enjoying a rapid rise through the leagues to join their fellow Cambridge side in the 4th tier. The clubs sharing a turbulent history having once been one before Cambridge Women as they were back then broke away eventually merging with Cambridge United FC. Cambridge City are now Cambridge City Women. Have always been a club that has put youth at the forefront of their pathway to the first team and have produced many talented sides over the years. Have seen many changes over the past few season’s from the very top with a new chairman to a total overhaul of the senior team losing a lot of experienced players as they have moved on to other clubs. Management changes too that have seen the club struggling for points at the bottom end of the league.

 More changes over the summer with more player departures, a new manager brought in Fadi Mazloum the ex-Stevenage FC Women’s head coach to lead the 1st team, overseeing a virtual rebuild of the squad. A number of new signings joining the young retained players. Eva Hubbard dual signed with Needham Market last season joining on a permanent basis. Rosy Wodhams joining from Stevenage FC Women. Sophie Mulvihill signing on with the club having experience with both Nottingham Forest and Leicester. Tilly Fidler another bringing valuable experience to the side. Striker, Libby Fraser joining from Cambridge United along with defender Abi Davies. Goalkeeper Nina Meollo comes in on loan from Ipswich Town Women. Jade Barrett back in the game after a spell out with injury. Jade McGibbon, Patience Ndlovu, Belle Shannon, Sakina Dhirani & Leila Awan also joining the club. A lot of new faces to bring in and form into a team over the summer and despite a opening day win in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup have struggled in the league losing their opening 6 matches to sit bottom of the table. Fadi Mazloum since setting down from his role sees the club on the look out for a new 1st team manager. Got a much needed boost with their 1st point secured at home against newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women in midweek.

Cambridge United WFC amongst the longest established sides playing in the 4th tier, but would love to shake of that accolade and strive for promotion. Since taking on the United mantle in their name have enjoyed closer ties with Cambridge United FC, forming a women’s board within the club last season and playing a number of matches at The Abbey Stadium. Setting up a better player pathway in the process with the aim of producing talent to compete for places in the senior team. Bringing in new players to bolster an experienced squad, Fran Steele joining from Cambridge City a driving force in midfield. Zoe Wood returning to football is an ex-England youth international. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris also joining with Wymondham Town Ladies amongst her previous clubs. Mistie Fox-Barker another addition joining from Royston Town Women. Annie Posnett top scorer in ERWFL Division One North last season also aiming to make an impact. Serena Cobb, Eleanor Townsend and Niamh Day stepping up from the old Development squad.

Shaking off a lethargic loss in the opening days Determining Round match. Came back to record a 4-0 win in their opening league fixture against Haywards Heath Town Women with last season’s top scorer Sarah Wilshire netting all 4 goals. Was to be Wiltshire’s last appearance for Cambridge for now as she announced she is pregnant with her 3rd child. A big gap to fill in the attack would be interesting to see how the squad responded… and they have responded excellently, playing Alysha Stojko-Down in a false number 9 position has found the back of the net for 5 goals with Bella Simmons hitting 4. Followed that win with back to back and a win, suffering their 1st loss against Wimbledon bouncing back well with 3 successive wins on the road in league and cup the latest in midweek with Bella Simmons spectacular bicycle kick clinching a 1-0 at London Seaward FC. Sees them in 4th place just 3 points behind leaders Norwich City Women.

  The New Croft in Haverhill the venue for today’s match, Cambridge City Women’s new home while they await the completion of Cambridge City FC’s new stadium in Sawston.  Boasting a top class 3G facility as well as the main grass pitch with the clubhouse, bar and kitchen hatch in between. A small seat stand on one side. Quite open to the elements is a somewhat chillier day to those we’ve been used to, but they had to arrive sounder or later. Still bright the sun moving around one end of the pitch would cause issues but otherwise dry.

Cambridge City Women

Cambridge City Women starting XI – Nina Meollo, Jess Fitzpatrick, Eva Hubbard (C), Sophie Mulvihill, Abi Davies, Paige Gardiner, Rosy Wodhams, Libby Fraser, Jess Wood, Jade Barrett & Becca Stephenson. Subs – Georgia Anderson, Hannah Simpson, Milly Struthers & Theresa Kooh. 

Cambridge United WFC

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Ella Marden, Tash Collins, Lauren Rouse, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Gisela Otten (C), Fran Steele, Ruth Fox, Bella Simmons & Alysha Stojko-Down. Subs – Sammy Edgar, Abbie Jackson, Annie Posnett, Serena Cobb & Mistie Fox-Barker.

United captain Gisela Otten and City captain Eva Hubbard with today’s match officials

You know the drill from here on in it’s City and United when these two meet (I write enough as it is without adding 300 references to Cambridge) It’s United to get the derby match underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and white socks. With City opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. The ball rolled back to Fran Steele in midfield clips a long pass out to the left, Ruth Fox harrying the City defence bringing the visitors an early corner.

Played into the near post area City half clearing out to United captain Gisela Otten positioned central strikes the ball from distance taking a deflection of a City defender to take the power out of it easily gathered by goalkeeper Nina Meollo. City look to drive through the middle, Paige Gardiner picking up a head of steam laying the ball on for Becca Stephenson pulling into the right channel the pass intercepted by Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris at the back for United. 

Cambridge City attacker, Becca Stephenson

  Competitive in the middle from the start with United looking to get the ball out to the flanks Fox left and Bella Simmons right willing runners. United winning a free-kick inside the centre circle Cheal-Ferris sending a diagonal ball out to Simmons on the right 25 out her feet slide out from under her as she goes to strike the ball the shot running harmlessly through to the keeper.

  Libby Fraser getting hold of the ball on the right for City looking to drive at the defence cutting inside losses possession as she runs into traffic. Another quick United free-kick sees Simmons skip in behind the defence on the right. Sophie Mulvihill coming across to put in the challenge for City clearing the danger away for a corner on the right. Swept in long across the six yard box Fox rising at the far post heading the ball down into the ground scrambled clear comes out to the left Ella Marden sending a strike from distance wide of the right post.

  United pressing into the City half the defence up on half way at times looking to be aggressive get after the ball turn play around. The ball won centrally United’s Simmons finds half a yard on the right wing to take the ball on down the line whipping a cross in central Fox closing meeting it with her head turns the ball wide of the right post. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Ruth Fox

  Lauren Rouse at the back for United putting in a strong tackle to win the ball against Rosy Wodhams as she looks to travel forwards. Playing a high line City find the pass to release Stephenson in behind right side racing after the ball, United goalkeeper, Lauren Webb closing in the opposite direction sliding in to lay claim to the ball.

  Another free-kick goes to United as Simmons is brought down outside the area 25 yards from goal. The ball curled into the box, Meollo punching it clear, City look to break with Jess Wood getting on down the wing before Collins closes her down challenging to put the ball out for a throw. City push players on for the throw in played inside to Stephenson left corner of the area tackled by United’s Steele. City with a good spell regaining possession centrally the pass forwards setting Stephenson away right side powers into the box before hitting the ball across the top of the six yard box, Fraser getting hold of it stealing past a couple of United defenders before rifling a shot wide past the right post 

  Wodhams dumped to the ground as she takes the ball forwards, City awarded the free-kick centrally, Fraser on the ball as players line up for a right sided delivery, instead Fraser whips the ball into the near post looking to wrong foot the keeper, Webb getting across her goal can see it safely wide. Remains a competitive tussle in the middle both sides battling for the ball. Rouse strong at the back for United winning her tackles. 

Cambridge City’s Rosy Wodhams

  Steele and Stojko-Down exchanging passes as they bring United on through the middle the ball clipped out to Simmons attacking right is sent tumbling, referee Lorraine Catchpole playing the advantage as Zoe Wood up with Simmons takes the ball forwards squaring a cross into the six yard box cut out by Mulvihill. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Zoe Wood

  Cheal-Ferris booked as she comes to close the ball down out on City’s right, the set-piece floated into the box from deep taken by Webb at her near post. City look to counter on the right, Collins with a great interception to hook the ball back into the middle for Stojko-Down back to goal turns well to lay the ball into the path of Fox coming on from the left striking the ball on the run Meollo diving across her goal with the merest of touches the ball behind for the corner. The ball swung in towards goal headed over.

United captain, Gisela Otten battling for possession with City’s Paige Gardiner

  Stephenson running the ball down for City into the left corner, holds it up as Fraser gets forwards to support played back to her up the line stabs it forwards looking to attack the area, Rouse in her path winning the tackle. Both sides looking to up the tempo get after the other into each other Jade Barrett coming into the middle to win possession for City, Otten snapping back at her to play the ball into Stojko-Down who in turn sets Wood away on the right her cross swung in from deep blocked by Fitzpatrick corner given. City defending their lines look to break the advantage played as a player is fouled in the middle the ball running on for Stephenson to knock forwards, can’t get to it before Webb as it runs on into her box.

Jess Fitzpatrick

  City gaining a little confidence having been defending deep earlier on are themselves pushing up as a unit into the middle, play there very congested with the ball pinging around. Wodhams bringing the pass from Gardiner under control on the left plays it forwards into Stephenson, Rouse in to close her down the ball gone for a throw in. Level with the top of the area the ball dropped into Barrett looks to turn corner of the area blocked at close quarters the rebound coming to Wodhams behind her 25 yards out curls her shot wide of the top corner.

Jade Barrett with the ball for Cambridge City

  Gardiner battling for the ball in the middle for City getting a favourable break surging forwards attempts to thread the ball in behind for Stephenson, Webb rushing forwards to gather it first. United come left Marden on for Fox wide outside the box jinks left then right before angling a shot straight at the keeper. United holding their line catching Stephenson offside on a couple of occasions. 

Cambridge City’s Paige Gardiner

  Cheal-Ferris with a long clearance out to the right finding Simmons holding the ball up top corner of the area before laying it out wide to Wood who sweeps a cross in towards the far post Stojko-Down up to meet it wide her head nods the ball wide. Simmons taking the ball wide right side sending a cross looping into the box caught by Meollo. Otten picking up a yellow card for United as the midfield battle continues.

  Wood winning City their first corner of the game on the left played in near post beat back out to the corner taker the 2nd attempt to play the ball into the box cleared by Rouse. City looking to build some momentum with Barrett and Wodhams linking up in the centre the ball out to the right intercepted well by Cheal-Ferris. Wood out on the right swinging a cross into the box caught high by Webb, United with a player down Fox hurt in the City build up down the right is okay after receiving treatment.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Lauren Rouse

 Gardiner on the move with the ball through the middle played on for Stephenson in attack, Rouse getting a foot in to cut it out for United. Fitzpatrick on the stretch with  a vital interception at the back for City as the diagonal ball threatens to see Simmons race in clear to attack the box on the right.

  Moments later the ball put into the box from the United right rebounds straight to Simmons top of the D, her snap shot taking a deflection behind for a corner on the right. Played long across the six yard box is headed back across wide of the post for a 2nd corner. This delivery to the top of the area, Simmons hauled down right of the D, Fraser receiving a yellow card. Wood and Cheal-Ferris over the ball, Wood with the dummy as Cheal-Ferris curls a strike in towards goal, Meollo behind it making the save as it dips late palming the ball over the bar with both hands.

City goalkeeper Nina Meollo tipping the ball over the bar

Nina Meollo

The resulting United corner played into the near post low, Meollo stabbing a foot out to block sending it behind for another corner. Put in towards the top of the area a strike towards goal wide of right post from 25 yards. Steele carrying the ball into the right channel has Wood with her on the overlap sending the ball into her feet the cross is whipped in central, Meollo with a confident claim taking the ball low into her midriff as Stojko-Down closes her down.

  City with a free-kick on the left late in the first half Hubbard over the ball put in to the top of the are knocked down into the path of Barrett top of the D, blasts a shot in towards goal, blocked by Marden inside the six yard box, Rouse clears for a corner on the right. The delivery goes long missing everyone in the six yard box, Barrett after the ball to regain on the left firing it back into the mix, the ball hotly contested before United scramble it away to safety.  

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

  A goalless first half in the finish of what has been a competitive Cambridge derby so far with the game highly competitive in the middle of the park. United getting off to a positive start looknig to get at the City defence spread play out to the wide attacking players. Creating a number of opportunities. The City defence busy pushed back, United up on halfway play gradually swinging as City gained confidence to push their own defence up gaining momentum towards the end of the half to create a few chances themselves. The game lacking that one quality pass that could see someone through on goal.

  No changes from either side at the break, as City get the 2nd period underway the ball put back into defence as United race forwards to hustle the ball won on the right the visitors send it cross field out to the left Fox looking to get forwards, Meollo out to clear the ball. United looking to get on the front foot early in the 2nd half the ball rolled into Wood right of the D her shot low straight into the keeper. Fox cutting out a City pass on the left knocks it forwards into Stojko-Down coming inside from the left curls a shot from outside the box onto the roof of the net. 

Alysha Stojko-Down lining up the shot

  United looking to be aggressive get after the ball. Barrett looking to bring the ball down for City as she moves to the right, Marden in to win the tackle for United. The sun low behind one goal now City with it at their backs, Webb donning a cap. United get on well down the left Marden on for Fox wide of the area shifts left then right before whipping a ball into the six yard box, won by Mulvihill for City. 

Sophie Mulvihill

  A free-kick won by City central, Hubbard over it launching the ball into the area, Webb up well to claim it. Barrett getting about the pitch for City looking to disrupt United regain possession for City. Stojko-Down coming left fouled by Mulvihill giving United a free-kick. Cheal-Ferris having Wood up with her plays it short as Wood breaks down the left to sing the cross into the area, blocked by Davies for City. 

Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris

  Wood fouled on the left for City, Hubbard drops the ball into the mix from deep, chaos ensues for a moment as both side scramble for the ball, United eventually sending it clear. Marden getting forwards well on the left as she and Fox combine on the left her cross headed out for a throw by Mulvihill. United making a change on the hour with Sammy Edgar coming on for Otten in the centre of the park. The game settling down a little scrappy at time as neither prepared to give any quarter in the midfield. 

Ruth Fox on the attack for Cambridge United

 Davies defending at the back for City against Fox the ball cleared up to Wood attacking on the right flashes a shot wide across the six yard box, retrieved on the left by Fraser strikes her shot from distance over. City working hard to stretch United winning a free-kick on the right the ball swung in under the bar Webb getting her gloves up to turn the ball wide for a corner on the left. Fired in low to the near post Collins launching it clear for United. 

 United on the drive through the middle Steele advancing plays in through for Edgar to take on and put Simmons away to attack on the right striking the shot from 25 yards, the ball smashing against the bar and over. 

United’s Bella Simmons striking the crossbar

  United pressing right side winning a throw, Simmons attempting to put the ball into the box cut out comes back to Wood strikes wide of the left post from range. United knocking on the door with a little over 15 minutes left to play. City fighting for the ball looking to get it into Stephenson in attack the striker twisting and turning 25 yards out squeezing a shot away, Webb down low to gather.

Cambridge City captain, Eva Hubbard

  Wood adjudged to be offside as she breaks in behind the City defence as Meollo rushes out to clear off a Stojko-Down pass. City winning a free-kick central inside the United half 30 plus yards out the sun at her back Hubbard lines up a strike at goal, hit well, Webb throwing herself to the right making a fantastic one handed save pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left.

Cambridge United WFC goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Fired into the box from the left, Steele up to defend for United heading the ball over for a 2nd corner. Another vicious in swinger, Webb up to punch the ball away to the left back to the taker fired back into the box too many bodies to evade the strike is blocked and cleared. The United bench infuriated as Fox is judged to have handled the ball as she looks to break away down the left. Fox’s last action of the game as she is replaced by Abbie Jackson the defender joining the back line with Cheal-Ferris going to full back and Marden pushed forwards.

Cambridge United WFC’s Ella Marden

  Edgar battling for the ball for United the visitors looking for a strong finish, City working hard at the back to keep them out with the clock ticking down. Wood with the diagonal ball from the right looking for Marden breaking left, frustrated as the flag halts her run. Davies in to defend on Wood as she looks to bring the ball down of her chest and turn to strike the ball goes behind for a corner. Fired in from the left into the six yard box knocked down for Simmons sees her shot blocked turned away from another corner on the left. Taken quickly the cross into the box into Jackson back to goal looks to shield the ball looking for someone to lay it off to, but City close the ball down get it away from danger.

  Into the last five minutes of regular play United pushing on looking for a goal, Marden off a throw on the left firing a cross into the box, but no one there to attack it. Edgar bursting forwards for United looked to already have slipped as Barrett clatters into her the free-kick awarded to United central 25 out. Stojko-Down over it goes for goal strikes her shot over the crossbar. 

Alysha Stojko-Down

 United pour forwards Cheal-Ferris left with the cutting pass inside into Stojko-Down outside the D looks to bring the ball down hit on the turn catching the ball with the outside of her boot, not troubling Meollo. City hanging on towards the end players back to defend. A corner won in the dying minutes on the right to United. 

Cambridge United midfielder, Fran Steele

 

 Played high into the box, Wood knocking the ball down towards the far post, Meollo able to grab as Mulvihill and Steele come together in front of her, the game ending in controversy as the grounded defender kicks out towards Steele catching her in the chin, Steele retaliating with a shove, the referee blowing up immediately, calling both players up to her as the United bench scream for a penalty. One thing at a time as a red card is shown to both players, both stunned, Steele sporting a cut on her face. Now the referee goes over to consult with her lineswoman before pointing to the spot Penalty! City’s turn to surround the referee but it does them no good the decision is made. Stojko-Down with a chance to win the game for United with what would surely be the last kick of the game with all the commotion needs to settle down. Strikes the penalty over, missing as the final whistle blows, City joyous, Stojko-Down distraught on her knees.

Full time Cambridge City Women 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

United’s Zoe Wood with City’s Jade Barrett

  On the final whistle the game is drawn but for both sides very different emotions, for United it almost feels like a loss, for City it feels like a win! The Cambridge derby ending goalless United by far the stronger in the 2nd half creating numerous chances started well looking to get after their opponents coming close to scoring but City’s defence battling hard. Webb needing to save at the other end to ensure the visitors weren’t caught out. A busy 7 days for both sides and they can both have reason to be positive, 7 points for United who remain 4th. 2 successive draws for City gives the squad some much needed confidence and something they can use to build on as they continue their search for a new manager.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A derby match very competitive there are a few contenders and narrowing it down to one wasn’t easy. Performances of note from both sides. For City, Paige Gardiner had a strong game in the middle of the park getting hold of the ball and driving forwards. Jade Barrett putting herself about, strong coming back to win the ball get City going in attack. Becca Stephenson lively in attack making some good runs. For United Ruth Fox and Bella Simmons were great outlets in attack wide and into the channels. Alysha Stojko-Down holding the ball up well getting into some fantastic positions to set up others. Fran Steele powerful in midfield closing the ball down, putting in the tackles. Came down to the numbers 5’s however and a close run contest too. Sophie Mulvihill with a strong defensive performance for City at the back, with some great tackling and interception play. The award though goes to United’s Lauren Rouse read the game well especially when United were holding a high line dropping off well and timing her tackles throughout.

  Might have ended goalless and I don’t cover many of those but this was as exciting a game as any I’ve watched this season, both sides working hard competitive in the middle of the park. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details. On to the next one time to get the coat out I think.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Actonians Ladies

Sunday 5th March

FAWNL South East Division One

 Into March and the business end of the season, a game from FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday featuring on Women’s Football East with Actonians Ladies travelling up the A10 to Ely to play Cambridge City Ladies. 

Best laid plans and all that the planned game falling by the wayside there’s always several decent alternatives to chose from and a slice of action from the 4th tier is always a good bet. FAWNL South east Division One now sadly down to 10 sides following the sad news that Hounslow Women have been forced to withdraw. Struggling for numbers and the fulfil fixtures the cub had battled so hard to try and build a club at this level but ultimately the difficult decision has had to be made. That following the withdrawal of Wymondham Town Ladies earlier in the season a huge reminder of just how fragile the game still remains and the work clubs have to do just to survive let alone thrive.

That of course means no relegation from the league this season, a relief for Cambridge City Ladies who now sit bottom having been above Hounslow. That said no team wants to win the wooden spoon either and whilst sides above them are within catching distance there remains alot to play for in the league, plus the defence of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup the final to be held against Cambridge rivals United. Has no doubt been a difficult season on the pitch, along with something of a transitional period off it with a new management team. Have seen quite a few experienced and established players depart over the past few months meaning the club has brought in several young players to bolster the squad. With an U23s and Development side.

  Cambridge City of course club that very much has it’s foundations in youth with a strong set up and history of bringing players on through the age groups. The balance right now probably tilted more towards youth than experience but City are fighting hard to try and get the right results on the pitch. Alright the table doesn’t lie one win all season and that coming on the opening day, Aren’t getting turned over week in week out but frustratingly when the points don’t come the confidence can wear down. The recent 1-1 with their rivals United at The Abbey Stadium showing that City are fighting to hold their own in the league and this year will give their younger players in valuable experience. Plus they have the move to Cambridge City FC’s new home in Sawston to look forwards too.

 Actonians Ladies are another side that knows all too well of the hard work needed both on and off the pitch to play at this level. Promoted to the FAWNL back in 2015 have gone on to become an established side competing in the top half of the table with 2 4th and 5th placed finish either side of the Covid hit campaigns. In sixth spot now are well positioned to challenge for the top 4 once again. Like City have a strong youth system with teams from U9s up to U17s plus two more women’s sides.

Despite having a poor start to the season picking up just 1 point in their opening 3 league matches, a run of wins in the various cup competitions kick started Actonians league campaign as the West London went of a 5 game winning streak to move up the table putting pressure on the top two briefly. Successive losses at home to AFC Wimbledon and away to QPR pegging them back a little currently 6th in the table. Natsumi Kanno and Rochelle Shakes joint top scorers on 7 each. Alessandra Barreca so often amongst the goals for Actonians in the past few seasons recently celebrating scoring her 100th goal for the club.

Allesandra Barreca has scored 100 goals for Actonians Ladies

Ely City FC’s, Demcom Stadium the venue for todays match. The grass pitch seeing alot of action being rolled before the game. Is a large pitch offering plenty of width. The kitchen hatch and bar open serving hot and cold drinks plus hotdogs and chips. The colder weather due to arrive not quite here yet although it was a chilly afternoon, gloomy and overcast no wind or rain about though.

Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Jessie Fitzpatrick, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Fran Steele, Emily Struthers, Paige Gardiner, Erin Davies, Sarah Payne, Becca Stephenson & Haile Richards. Subs – Ellen Marson, Sophie Billing, Ella Marks-McDonald, Georgia Clarke.

Actonians Ladies

 Actonians Ladies starting XI – Amy Butler, Jessica Drage, Dominika Netschova, Sarah Coomson, Sophie Baigent, Meila D’Santos (C), Alessandra Berraca, Sophia Sharos, Natsumi Kanno, Jasmine Williamson & Rochelle Shakes. Subs – Naomi Graham, Rhiannon Ismael, Maria Ledezma-Viso, Samiara Khan, Chihiro Ebine. 

Cambridge’s first game back since their spirited 1-1 with Cambridge United at The Abbey 10 days ago bring recent signing Sarah Payne back into the starting line up with 4 on the bench. Actonians with two ex-Cambridge United layers in their squad today with Amy Butler keeping goal and striker Samiara Khan on the bench. Cambridge to get the 1st half underway wearing white shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Actonians lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball played back then fed to the right fired up the line for Paige Gardiner to attack, Dominika Netschova winning it for Actonians. 

  Actonians quick to get on the front foot surge forwards taking the game on into the Cambridge half a throw won high on the left, Rochelle Shakes looking to get the ball down drives into the box to the by-line the cross cut out deflected away for another throw. The cross launched into the six yard box, Sarah Hudson, Cambridge’s goalkeeper and captain with the call coming out of her goal to leap and lay claim to the ball. Actonians pressing on Cambridge looking a little nervous Jasmine Williamson running into the right channel winning the visitors a throw a spot of head tennis as the ball is nodded on across the top of the area dropping for Barreca 20 yards out right of the D, bringing it down on the spin, shoots the ball lopping in towards goal, straight into Hudson’s gloves.

Actonians, Alessandra Barreca

  Haile Richards seeing the ball into her feet up top for Cambridge turning a powerful drive forwards, Actonians centre back Sophie Baigent getting across her to see the ball back to her keeper for Butler to clear. Baigent’s ball launched up top from the back seeing Williamson attacking outside the D and awkward bounce takes it forwards, Amy Reed racing across to throw a foot out to block then again on Barreca as she comes in behind on the follow up. Netschova and Natsumi Kanno combining out on the left in attack for Actonians, Kanno rolling it back to Netschova her cross into the box from deep claimed cleanly by Hudson.

Natsumi Kanno with Amy Reed

  GOAL! Actonians marauding forwards at the start of the match putting pressure on the Cambridge defence top of the area Jessica Drage forwards on the right the ball lifted infield across the top of the area Cambridge lunging in to try and clear, the ball knocked on across the box falls to Williamson left of the D inside the box, gets her foot under the ball to strike it high into the top corner 0-1. Williamson making it a 3 way tie for top scorer wit her 7th of the season. 

Jasmine Williamson jubilant after scoring for Actonians

  Actonians taking the lead in the 7th minute capitalising on a strong start. Cambridge come on from the restart Sarah Payne out to Becca Stephenson on the left sends the pass inside for Erin Davies coming on through the middle, attempts to pick out Gardiner on the right with a high diagonal ball, Netschova under it to put  out for a throw. Barreca bringing the ball on for Actonians right playing it forwards for Williamson getting clear to attack the box to the right of goal, Bronwyn Mulheron getting back in the nick of time to put in the block as she pulls the trigger deflecting the ball away for a corner.

Cambridge City’s Sarah Payne

  The corner from Kanno long past the far post attacked by Shakes, goes behind a Cambridge touch spotted a corner awarded on the left. Fired in near post the hosts clear. Drage getting forwards well on the right from the back for Actonians picked out by Baignet running on into the corner, Reed recovering for Cambridge to get back at her challenge for the ball the cross put behind for a goal kick. Actonians captain Meila D’Santos playing the ball central for Williamson, Mulheron in close spins off the defender to the right to strike a vicious shot low towards goal, Hudson with a great save instinctive with her feet to deny her the ball spinning away to her left.

Cambridge City goalkeeper & captain Sarah Hudson

Jasmine Williamson looking to play in Rochelle Shakes

  Cambridge need to settle it’s all a little rushed, Richards moving well looking to be the outlet up top but support can’t get to her quick enough allowing Baigent and fellow centre back Sarah Coomson time to the ball and pick their passes forwards. Stephenson with the ball at her feet for Cambridge on the move left side inside for Richards sends the ball in across the top of the D, Gardiner closing in sees the ball nicked off her foot by Baigent before she can think about pulling the trigger. Actonians quickly on the counter the ball on for Kanno moving inside dribbling the ball forwards is brought down winning the free-kick. Midway inside the Cambridge half D’Santos on it sends it goalwards, Hudson sees it all the way.

Cambridge City’s Paige Gardiner

  Stephenson tracking back to win the ball back for Cambridge sends the pass long up to Richards bursts forwards attempting to find Gardiner on the move right side, Actonians have got back well to form a solid wall in front of her. Cambridge finding a little bit of joy upping the tempo the risk is that plays into Actonians hands. Shakes with the diagonal pass picking out Drage away out on the right plays the pass into the box for Williamson surging on right of the D, Mulheron again throwing herself in to block the ball rebounding away for the corner. Kanno whipping a great ball into the six yard box Barreca under it heads the ball up to drop down onto the roof of the net. 

Actonians, Jessica Drage

  Actonians power forwards on the left Kanno up with Shakes the striker taking the ball to the by-line her cross blocked, the ball loose top of the area left side players from both sides battling for it Actonians seeing one of their players pulled over the referee pointing to the penalty spot. Barreca placing the ball on the spot. A chance to put the visitors 2 nil up shoots going to the left of goal, pulls it wide of the post.

 Cambridge riding their luck, fighting hard but desperately need some relief forced back is difficult to get numbers out to attack, Actonians using the pitch well Drage and Kanno good outlets wide. Gardiner with a heavy tackle on Kanno the referee having a word. Actonians with loose play at the back sees Gardiner steal in onto the ball touching it in field the visitors move to close her down, 25 yards out doesn’t get a clean strike away the ball running safely through to Butler to pick up.  

  Is a little physical at times both sides battling for the ball. Cambridge winning a free-kick wide on the left deep, Fran Steele to play the ball forwards up towards the top of the area, the Actonians defence heading clear for a throw out left.

 On Cambridge’s right knocked inside Kanno’s clearance put across the top of the box falling straight to Davies 20 odd yards out her shot sliced on the half volley spinning wide. Coomson sending the ball forwards for Williamson racing into the right channel, Bronwyn tackling the ball deflected into the box, Hudson can’t keep it from going for a corner. Is another vicious delivery from Kanno fired into the six yard box head height, Hudson does well amongst bodies to get her fist to the ball taking it away to drop far post, Shakes’ snap shot is blocked the rebound coming to Netschova left corner of the area her shot struck wide across the goal.

Actonians, Sarah Coomson

  Steele for Cambridge with a great tackle on Shakes outside the D doing enough to stop the ball running on for Williamson inside the box. Coomson and Baigent have the time at the back to pick their passes and willing running going forwards for Actonians, Kanno out right the target for Baignet’s diagonal ball, Reed jumping with the merest of glancing header to take it away conceding the corner. Swung in near post, Steele comes to stoop into the header and clear Netschova in midfield gathering the ball laying it back to Kanno on the right her cross caught Hudson.

Cambridge City’s Fran Steele

 Kanno in the middle tussling for possession with Payne both falling awkwardly Kanno onto Payne’s legs both up but feeling it. Actonians with the free-kick the ball fired up towards the top of the area Steele clearing comes straight back, Williamson pulling off the defence after it but Cambridge standing up well caught offside. Kanno inside for Sharos plays it into Shakes left of the D, Emily Struthers with the tackle for Cambridge. Payne brought down in the middle presenting Cambridge with a free-kick, Steele launching it up towards the top of the area volleyed clear. A handball by Coomson spotted late in the 1st half Cambridge with one more chance to get the ball forwards. Steele on it central 30 yards out goes for it on target but safely plucked down and held by Butler.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 0-1 Actonians Ladies

  Very similar to Cambridge’s first half 10 days ago against United a backs to the wall performance with their opponents coming onto them earlier applying pressure. Actonians with a positive start pressing forwards, using the pitch well creating chances and taking an early lead. Able to get players on the defence able to mop things up had opportunities to o further into the lead but weren’t taken. Cambridge battling brief glimpses going forwards could have been 2 or 3 down but as it stands trail by a single goal, can they keep it up in the 2nd half frustrate Actonians, take their chance if it comes.

  A change for Cambridge at the break, Payne picking up a knock coming off a slight change of personnel with 16-year-old Sophie Billing who only make her debut in Cambridge’s last game going on to lead the attack, Richards moving to the right. Actonians unchanged as the visitors get the 2nd 45 underway, the ball back to the defence sent long to the left for Netschova, Richards doing the defending for Cambridge. 

  Cambridge more aggressive at the start of the 2nd half moving in quicker to press the ball. D’Santos into Williamson central, plays the ball into Barreca before making a run across her towards the area. Barreca putting a diagonal ball into Shakes left of the D attempts to send it across into Williamson with Kanno too stealing in from the left, Struthers getting her foot through the ball first to clear for Cambridge.

  Actonians winning a corner on the right swung into the near post Reed clearing for Cambridge. The game more open at the start of the 2nd half, Williamson onto the ball wide left knocking it on into the area, Davies racing back to tackle for Cambridge before Williamson can get a shot away. Stephenson taking the ball on from Reed on Cambridge’s left racing on sends it on looking for Billing up to moving left, Baigent going with the run intercepting for Actonians. Both sides into each other a few robust challenges exchanged.

Actonians, Sophie Baigent

  Cambridge getting a corner of Williamson as the attacker tracks back well to put a foot in to take the ball off Richards as the Cambridge forward picks up a head of steam on the right. Players up from the back the corner swung into the six yard box, Mulheron attacking central can’t get her head on the ball. 

  On the hour Actonians with a triple change bringing off their attackers, Shakes, Barreca and Williamson on come Samiara Khan, Maria Ledezma-Viso and Chihiro Ebine. With Khan going up top, Ledezma-Viso right and Ebine into the back line with Netschova pushed on. Actonians with a throw high on the right put into the Cambridge box the clearance coming to D’Santos central sends it left into Netschova running onto it stretching to bring down sends her shot wide at the near post. 

Dominika Netschova bringing the ball down

 Ebine up on the left for Actonians with the throw dropped into Khan inside the box left of goal takes it to the by-line turning to put her cross/shot behind. Baigent brought down by Billing as the pair fight for possession, both sides wanting more urgency. Actonians making a 4th change with Naomi Graham onto the pitch taking the captains armband on for Sharos. The visitors winning a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out right of the D, Drage on it struck towards the top corner, Hudson across her goal pulling it down safely.

 There’s going to be a fair collection of bruises for both sides tomorrow morning getting at each other for possession. Actonians a little frustrated they haven’t put the game to bed, Cambridge sensing they might get something. D’Santos up the line for Khan on the left taking it to the by-line her cross into the six yard box cut out by Struthers. Ledezma-Viso taking the ball on wide right for Actonians sending a low cross into the six yard box, Netschova attacking it can’t get a telling touch before Mulheron makes her challenge.

Sophie Billing & Chihiro Ebine battling for the ball

  It’s an intriguing watch you feel Actonians should be well in control but Cambridge are fighting for their lives it has the potential to go either way with less than 20 minutes to go. Actonians coming right winning the corner Kanno’s ball into the six yard box attacked by D’Santos central knocked down to the fart post attacked by Baigent shoots Hudson grabbing it into her body saving for Cambridge. 

Meila D’Santos

  Coomson tackling Stephenson on the by-line as the Cambridge winger races on with the ball. Billing pressuring at the back winning Cambridge a corner on the left. Players up the ball flung in central headed out to the top of the area, both Stephenson and Reed go to attack get in each others way giving Actonians the chance to clear. Ledezma-Viso out on the right of the area firing a shot wide across the goal for Actonians. Cambridge making a change Gardiner having been in the wars coming off replaced by Ellen Marson who goes into a right attacking position, Richards shifting to the left with Billing up top.

Cambridge City’s Becca Stephenson

  Netschova bringing the ball on left side fed on for Khan, strength from the attacker to hold off her marker shifting the ball inside outside the box looking to get it onto her right foot and turn into the shot, drags her effort wide of the near post. Davies comes forwards though the middle for Cambridge out to Stephenson on her left forwards into Richards, held up by Coomson plays it back to Stephenson, picks out Davies 25 out calls for her to shoot caught on two minds does neither the ball knocked on into the box gathered by Butler. 

Erin Davies

  Cambridge send the ball up top into Billing won knocked out to Stephenson coming on left side on into Richards 25 yards out left channel fires her strike straight at the keeper. Khan strong getting free on the by-line left of goal to cross, cut out by Mulheron then cleared by Steele for Cambridge. Kanno gives the ball to Graham central plays it forwards into D’Santos strikes from distance her attempt dropping wide. 7 minutes left to play the result by no means certain. Richards clattering into Coomson but no foul given Cambridge have the throw put on the cross launched into the box headed clear by Baigent. 

  Davies driving on central with the ball Actonians crowd into her the ball loose for a moment Richards looking to carry it forwards with the same results. Cambridge making a 3rd change bringing off Richards, on comes Georgia Clarke. Kanno fouled as she drives on through the middle the advantage played as the ball comes on to Khan right in the box her cross blocked come back to Kanno to strike cleared by Mulheron. Actonians putting some urgency into their play in the closing stages Graham hooking it forwards for Khan, Struthers defending for Cambridge.

  Baigent sent sprawling to the ground on half way for Actonians giving the visitors a free-kick. Flighted into the box towards the right post Mulheron up to head it behind for a corner on the right.

  GOAL! Kanno’s corner deliveries have been a threat all game and one bears fruit at last as the inswinging ball is knocked on across goal at the near post dropping down into Ebine’s feet, digging it out for the shot to send home as Cambridge throw bodies in to try and block 0-2.

Chihiro Ebine with the goal at the death for Actonians to ensure the 3 points

  Actonians clinching the win at the death doubling their lead killing off any chance of Cambridge getting something out of the game. Little time left after the restart to get the ball forwards put out to the right the final whistle blows Actonians back to winning ways taking the points home with them moving up to 5th in the table.

 

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 0-2 Actonians Ladies

  Actonians made to work for the 3 points was an intriguing watch Cambridge fighting for their lives. Actonians looked dominant at times and could well have been 2 or 3 goals to the good at half-time and perhaps if they had been would have deflated Cambridge’s spirit but at 1-0 the hosts were always in the game but unlike the game 10 days ago couldn’t find that one moment of quality to get themselves back on level terms. Fought all the way can take plenty of heart from the performance but again it’s hard to take when you get nothing from it. Actonians on top moving the ball well eventually sealing a deserved win at the death. 6 games to go for Actonians and some big ones too in terms of final position. Cambridge with 4 left one more at home against Norwich then 3 away including a final day trip to Chesham could yet be a huge game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match was a tough one once again left the ground not entirely sure who I was going to give it too, but I do write alot of notes as you know and they gave me what I needed. Several performance of note both sides put in a shift no doubt a spirited display. For Cambridge, Sarah Hudson with an assured performance in goal leading from the back with some great saves. Amy Reed and Bronwyn Mulheron with some good tackling at the back and Haile Richards fighting for the ball up top. For Actonians, Alessandra Barreca was influential on the ball getting it forwards, Meila D’Santos strong in midfield, while Sophie Baigent had a strong game at the back winning the ball and playing it forwards well. The winner of today’s award though is Natsumi Kanno her corners were a threat all game as was her running with the ball and link up play.

  A intriguing game (for the neutral I suppose) enjoyed my trip to the Demcom Stadium. Good to catch up with Actonians as I haven’t seen them in a while plus my thanks Cambridge City for their help with the team details much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Cambridge City Ladies

Wednesday 22nd February

FAWNL South East Division One

 Midweek football action from The Abbey Stadium this Wednesday evening with a game from FAWNL South East Division One the Cambridge derby with Cambridge United WFC hosting Cambridge City Ladies.

One time together the Cambridge Women breaking away from City to become an established club in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid merging with Cambridge United FC with the link between the clubs male and female sides becoming closer with a new women’s board at the start of the season. Cambridge City building on their strong youth set-up to rise rapidly through the pyramid themselves to join their local rivals in South East Division One.

A healthy rivalry exists between the two, a local derby always bringing with it an extra bit of spice into any league campaign. City often a thorn in United’s side over the past few season’s United have had the upper hand so far this campaign beating City both in league and cup competitions.

Cambridge United WFC now fully integrated with Cambridge United FC, with a new women’s board and better youth development through the centre of excellence. Playing a number of matches at The Abbey Stadium this season including this evenings derby, have games against London Seaward FC and Actonians Ladies to come. Currently 7th in the FAWNL South East Division One table have lost ground on the top six over recent games and will want to improve their points tally get back amongst it. Several players coming and going over the close season with Sarah Wiltshire the marquee signing with lots of experience playing in the FAWNL the striker netting 15 goals so far this season. New players joining all the time as they look to build a strong competitive squad one of those ex-City player Bella Simmons who was at United before enjoying a successful spell with their local rivals. Hitting the ground running with 2 goals in 4 matches plus player of the match displays.

  Cambridge City Ladies themselves appear to be in something of a transitional phase with several changes to the management team and playing personnel over the past months. The club build on a strong youth set-up that still remains the foundation with plenty of young talent coming through. Of late though have lost several senior players including Simmons and top scorer Grace Stanley moving to QPR. Young players pushed up to meet the challenge of playing in the FAWNL, have added Eva Hubbard, ex Ipswich captain, Sarah Payne formerly with Harlow Town Ladies and striker Haile Richards from Biggleswade as they look to get away from the bottom of the table with just one win on the board before this evenings game lay 2nd bottom. Although bottom side Hounslow Women are struggling to fin a side let alone a win you don’t want to e in that position. Far from ideal preparations for the match to with City travelling to Hounslow on Sunday only to find their opponents couldn’t field a team!

   This evening seeing a tribute to Cambridge United WFC’s, Kayleigh-Anne Burt. Retiring from football after playing for the club for17 years, coming through the centre of excellence at 16 with 300 appearances going on to become club captain, winning several county cups along the way. The defender a much loved member of the club. From a personal point of view, one of my favourite players have enjoyed watching her play. From my early days of coming to watch Cambridge Women made me feel welcome and always helpful and approachable. A leader on and off the field loyal to the club, a true legend. Wishing Kayleigh all the best for for whatever comes after football. Enjoy your footballing retirement.

Kayleigh-Anne Burt retiring after 17 years playing for Cambridge United WFC

Tonight’s derby match one of a number of Cambridge United WFC matches to be played at The Abbey Stadium as they look to get more people watching the woman’s team showcase women’s football within the county and beyond. A League One stadium with a fantastic playing surface. The main stand open with hot food and drinks available. The weather remain unusually mild and pleasant for February, dry and still.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Mayzee Seymour, Carrie Bennett, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Sammy Edgar, Gisela Otten (C), Sydnie Naylor, Ella Mardon, Francesca Partridge & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Libby Fraser, Kaylen Gerkey.

Cambridge City Ladies

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Emily Struthers, Amy Reed, Bronwyn Mulheron, Fran Steele, Paige Gardiner, Erin Davies, Rebecca Stephenson, Jess Fitzpatrick, Eva Hubbard & Haile Richards. Subs – Sarah Payne, Ellen Marson, Rose Sparrow, Alexandra Pryke & Sophie Billing.

United losing Bella Simmons and midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down due to injuries picked up in the weekends friendly match in preparation for tonight’s match. Both ides with 5 available on the bench. It’s City to kick-off the first half wearing white shirts with back shorts and black and white hooped socks. United lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball played long out to the left side for Eva Hubbard seen safely out of play by United’s Mayzee Seymour.

City work the ball inside from the throw in the diagonal pass put long into the box for attacker Haile Richards right side heads into the corner played up the line for Amy Reed drives towards the right corner of the area a strong challenge from defender Rachel Kosky for United seeing the attack quelled the ball cleared.

Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City with a free-kick wide left an early opportunity to send players forwards attacked left of the D, deflected towards goal, goalkeeper Lauren Webb right behind it to claim safely. Kosky with a long range pass forwards from the back looking for Francesca Partridge on the left side, intercepted by City’s Emily Struthers at the back. United rush in to close the ball down in the middle of the park played on by Sammy Edgar to Partridge has full back Carrie Bennett racing on to support the ball rolled into her path crosses it in towards the top of the area central headed clear by City’s Fran Steele.

Women’s Football East sponsored player, Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to get the ball moving rapidly take the game to their opponents Kosky forwards for Edgar looking for Partridge making a left channel run. Struthers getting their first to cut out the ball. Partridge with good footwork to get inside her marker on the left, has Sarah Wiltshire coming across as she turns infield finds her with the pass Wiltshire heading for the area held up, United get numbers up to press the ball back to Partridge left her cross claimed by City goalkeeper and captain, Sarah Hudson.

Certainly has a derby feel with United working to close the ball down keep possession in City’s half of the pitch Wiltshire running at the defence, both Steele and Bronwyn Mulheron putting tackles in to deny her an opportunity to shoot. Cleared from the back into Jessie Fitzpatrick central City mount an attack played on for Richards up top turns playing it out right to Reed racing up the pitch, her cross squared back across the top of the area intercepted and cleared by Edgar for United.

Bronwyn Mulheron tackling United’s Francesca Partridge (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United seeing more of the ball in the early exchanges but City are working hard at the back prevent anyone getting in behind. Steele with a vital touch to head the bouncing ball out of the marauding Wiltshire’s path at the top of the box as she attempts to run onto a well placed ball clipped on from the middle. Fitzpatrick taking the ball right for City getting on before sending a cross into the United box, won by centre back, Lauren Rouse.

Bennett finding space to run into on the left giving good support to Partridge looks to play the diagonal ball forwards into Wiltshire as the United striker, Hudson alert to the threat out of her six yard box to get to the flight of the ball first. United pressing on Sydnie Naylor combining with Ella Marden on the right, Hubbard breaking up play for City. United captain Gisela Otten closing the ball down to keep the pressure on City on for Naylor lifted on for Wiltshire, Hudson again out to the top of her area early to grab the ball.

Sydnie Naylor on the attack (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United looking to dictate a high tempo the full backs able to get on keep City pushed back inside their own half. Wiltshire dispossessed, City try to mount a quick counter on for Fitzpatrick through the middle into Richards, Rouse quickly into her to tackle prevent the potential attack. Wiltshire getting her own back moments later stealing the ball off Steele at the back 20 yards out knocking it on into the area, racing after it, Hudson advancing to the ball throwing herself down to slide in bravely at the attackers feet getting her body behind the ball to save.

Wiltshire always lively up top moving about the back line a willing runner and outlet for the forwards pass, Partridge attempts to pick her out with  diagonal ball, Steele winning it for City. United with a free-kick inside the City half to the right players up lined up across the top of the rea fired in, Otten seeing it into her feet 20 yards out with the turn and volley deflected through bodies into the six yard box. Wiltshire after it but can’t quite get to the ball as it skips up in front of Hudson and is caught.

Cambridge City’s Fran Steele

United advance left a throw won Bennett into Wiltshire drags the ball inside lining up a strike from 25 yards out rising is straight to Hudson and claimed by the goalkeeper. 20 minutes played United pressing the advantage Wiltshire collecting the ball from a deeper position lifting it on for Naylor racing on through the middle, City get back en masse to deny her a route through towards goal.

GOAL! United maintain the pressure in midfield as City attempt to clear their lines, Wiltshire sharp pulling off to the right inside the box as the ball is won back and lifted forwards seeing it drop over her smashes it past the keeper into the back of the net to score the opening goal 1-0.

Sarah Wiltshire on target for the opening goal for United (photo credit Sean Doyle)

United leading 1-0 (photo credit Sean Doyle)

16 goals from 16 games for Wilshire now putting United into a deserved lead the hosts coming onto City. Mulheron getting a foot in in the nick of time on Partridge as United break through the middle, the ball running away for a corner kick. The delivery into a busy six yard box headed away to the right, before play is stopped by a raised flag.

Kosky getting her foot in to deny Richards up top for City as she attempts to see the ball roll across her body and turn from a Hubbard pass from the left. Richards and Fitzpatrick combining as the pair come on for City right channel, Bennett defending for United. Erin Davies frustrated in the centre of midfield for City with a good tackle to get the ball forwards into Fitzpatrick, her threaded pass forwards unable to find Richards up top. A few fouls being given away by City as they look to get themselves going.

Mulheron getting back well on Wiltshire to defend for City as the United striker takes the ball off Marden on the right and turns inside making a run for the box. Kosky allowed time on the ball at the back able to pick a pass goes long with Wiltshire pulling off the defence, too much on it however Hudson taking it safely. Steele cuts the ball out at the back as Wiltshire drifting over to the left looks to find Partridge through the middle, the clearance as has been often the case quickly coming back with Edgar, Naylor and Otten in this case winning the ball back for United.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Bennett bombing on left side her pass on catching Partridge offside. Otten central out to Marden on the right has support from Wiltshire the pass inside, shifts to go one way checking back inside Mulheron adjusting to get her foot in to take the ball away from her. Hubbard drifting into a central position with a telling pass forwards for City cutting the United defence open Richards running on, Webb though sharp to respond out quickly to the top of the area to lay claim to the ball.

Cambridge United captain, Gisela Otten (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City battling for possession Davies with the ball long on the diagonal to Richards making a run into the area, Kosky getting across her the defender shielding the ball out for goal kick. United with the ball high on the left Bennett up with Partridge and Wiltshire playing a short triangle the ball coming to Wilshire outside the box left of the D, Davies tracking back from midfield getting the  block in to deny the shot.

City with a few encouraging signs towards the latter stages of the first half the ball played into Richards feet 20 odd yards out central does well to roll her marker shift the ball right and turn onto the shot a vicious drive on target low comes onto Webb quickly improvises well with a fantastic save with her shins as she falls back to deflect the ball away to the right. Pressure from Partridge sees the ball lost on the City right picks out Naylor central forwards to Wilshire, Fitzpatrick with the challenge for City.

Cambridge City captain Sarah Hudson sliding in to deny Sarah Wiltshire in the 1st half (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  United with the lead at half-time Sarah Wiltshire’s 16th goal of the season the difference between the sides scoring in the 20th minute. A dominant first half from the hosts with City sitting back soaking up alot of pressure. Have battled well to keep their opponents chances limited with Wiltshire getting on clear chance in behind the defence to score. City have been frustrated but showed signs towards the end of the first half that they are far from out of the game and with the lead just a single goal the result is far from certain.

No changes for either side at the break with United to get the 2nd half underway in front of a crowd of 371. The ball played back into midfield, City straight in the close the ball down the action frantic at the start as the ball in hustled all over the pitch. City working the ball across the pitch out to the right claimed by Wedd in the United goal.

Partridge on through the middle with a good touch to send the ball on towards the box, Hudson out well to clear. City get the ball on through the middle Hubbard more central on for Richards a race with Rouse towards the box the United defender getting to the ball to clear. Bennett still getting forwards on the left for United on for Wilshire, Reed coming back at her to win the ball back for City. A much more even start to the 2nd half City getting into United higher up the pitch to disrupt play a little bitty at times with passes being forced and possession lost.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

United have a break on Wiltshire moving right on for Naylor, Mulheron stretching to make the challenge getting hold of the ball. Richards frustrated as she gives away a foul kicking the ball away, a word from the referee. City getting into United higher up the pitch is seeing the passes forwards into Wiltshire restricted. Hubbard linking with Davies in the middle on for Richards, Kosky getting in close to challenge for United.

Stephenson out left for City seeing the ball into her feet back to goal spins off her marker well to check inside the pass for Richards intercepted by Edgar for United. Stephenson with another clever turn this time frustrated as the flag goes up against her. Edgar coming forwards with the ball at her feet right channel on for Wiltshire making a run down the line checking back on the by-line up towards the corner of the area getting a looping shot away looking for the top corner drops into Hudson’s waiting gloves.

Haile Richards with Rachel Kosky (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City much improved with Hubbard in with Davies allowing the visitors number 8 more time to pick a pass give the attacking plyers something to run onto. United under a bit of pressure now themselves at the back. Richards on the run with the ball right side bundled over City with the free-kick 35 yards out, Hubbard over it an ambitious effort going for goal, out straight at Webb the goalkeeper untroubled.

Erin Davies (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Edgar fouled coming forwards for United inside the City half. Naylor playing the ball low in towards the top of the area Wiltshire putting it across the D, City scramble it clear. City with a set-piece launched into the box, a firm header from Kosky to clear for United. Bennett left up to Partridge attempting to flick it on behind and run onto the ball gives herself too much to do as Hudson rushes out to claim the ball. City making their first change bringing on 16-year-old Sophie Billing for her first team debut, for Struthers going up top sees a shift of personnel, City feeling they’re right back in the game.

Kosky pushing up on Richards the striker doing well to drag the ball wide and spin in behind feeding the pass on for Billing up top clear to attack, Webb out to get to the ball top of her area. Billing combining with Stephenson in attack on the left, Seymour seeing it out for the throw, the cross played into the top of the area hooked clear by Edgar. Steele appears to have picked up a knock for City coming off to be assessed.

GOAL! City with a strong start to the 2nd half get themselves back on level terms with a top quality finish from Hubbard from all of 30 yards out. Gardiner forwards to Stephenson on the left comes inside playing the pass into Hubbard central, sees the opportunity making great contact with the ball sending it up towards goal Webb back on her line can’t get a touch as it dips under the bar to make it 1-1.

Eva Hubbard striking the ball to make it 1 all for Cambridge City (photo credit Sean Doyle)

City celebrate their equaliser (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Steele has come off replaced by Ellen Marson. City full of confidence now pressing the ball winning a free-kick on the left as Stephenson is bundled over. 30 yards out Hubbard to flight it in towards the top of the area Richards stretching for it can’t get enough of a touch to knock it past the defence United clear. United with a double change on the right bringing off Seymour and Marden for Abi Davies and Abbie Jackson. City too making another change bringing on Sarah Payne for Gardiner.

City winning a corner on the left players up as the ball is flung in across the six yard box, Webb up well amongst the crowd to glove the ball away to drop behind to the right for another corner. Put in near side Fitzpatrick attempting to knock it in towards the near post too many bodies to get through cleared.

Lauren Webb gloving the ball away

City looking energized now up for it as the crowd try to gee up United with a little over 15 minutes left to play. Richards gathering the ball right of Reed turning for goal 30 yards out clattered over winning the set-piece. Over it herself goes for goal the attempt straight at Webb held. United aren’t finding it as easy to get the balls into their attackers 2nd half with City more competitive in the middle Hubbard and Davies pressing the ball finding Stephenson out left Richards with support from Billing moving about to get onto the ball.

Abi Davies with Rebecca Stephenson (photo credit Sean Doyle)

Richards game done however as she comes off for Alexandra Pryke late in the game. Davies with a shot from distance off a eft side throw for City on target but straight at Webb. United making a change Kosky off at the back replaced by new signing Kaylen Gerkey. Naylor coming through the middle for United a powerful run riding a challenge driving threaded into the area for Wiltshire moving left on into the six yard box rapidly losing room for a shot gets an angled ball in low but taken by Hudson.

City finishing the game the stronger pressing the ball not giving United any time fighting to keep what they’ve got at the end Jackson cutting out Payne pass on for Billing outside the box.

(photo credit Sean Doyle)

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Cambridge City Ladies

  All over and the points are shared. A game of two halves literally. United the better side in the first half getting into City pushing on and spreading the ball about the park controlling the middle taking a deserved lead. City battled hard to keep them at bay not wanting to expose any gaps in behind conceding were encouraging signs towards the end of the first half. A few tweaks to positioning a a much improved 2nd half on the front foot competing for the ball in the middle while limiting United passes into their forwards a more even contest did feel another United goal might kill it off but it didn’t come and City found the equaliser through a wonderful finish from Eva Hubbard, giving them renewed energy and confidence might well have gone either way at the end after that. Will meet again this season in the upcoming Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final, City the current holders. United back in the competition after a year out where they went on to win the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Cup, on the basis to this evenings game a mouthing game awaits.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. No easy one this with several contenders putting themselves forwards. Carrie Bennett had an excellent game out on the left for United relishing a derby got herself about the park, putting in a number of tackles. Rachel Kosky too at the back with a several key challenges and interceptions, showing a good range of passing. Sarah Wiltshire’s movement causing City’s defence problems especially first half as she moved across the back line looking to create openings and receive the ball, took her goal well. For City, Fran Steele was strong at the back getting in to win the ball and clear threats. Haile Richards impressed up top working hard running into the channels and linking up play. Although Erin Davies was a frustrated figure in the first half the 2nd half adjustments saw her have more influence in the middle and won her fair share of the ball. Tonight’s award though goes to Cambridge City’s Eva Hubbard was a sublime finish to get City back on level terms. Working hard for the team both tracking back to defend and get forwards moving more central 2nd half to get amongst the midfield.

 Another enjoyable evening at The Abbey Stadium, my tanks to both teams for this assistance tonight and my thanks to Sean Doyle for using his pictures in the report. A great advert for football in Cambridge long my the rivalry continue. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 Sunday 8th January

FAWNL South East Division One

 Wishing you all a Happy New Year! A huge personal milestone to kick-off 2023 with this report being the 500th! Come along way from what was initially just a go at trying something new as I looked to continue my coverage of woman’s football following the folding of my WSL team Lincoln Ladies. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog eventually growing into Women’s Football East as I felt all of the teams across all leagues in the region deserved and needed more coverage. Hopefully have played a part in that and there’s plenty more games let to cover.

Today’s game comes from FAWNL South East Division One a trip to St Neots Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on newly promoted Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women.

Both sides with a comfortable firs half of the season placed in mid-table looking to push on up the table in 2023. The 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid getting ever stronger, but with the sad demise of Wymondham Town Ladies leaving the league a side down it highlights how fragile that growth remains and the hard work clubs have to do to play at this level.

Cambridge United WFC now a long established club at this level growing strong links now with their respective men’s side with 4 games to be played at The Abbey Stadium throughout this season. A stark assessment of the squad taking place at the end of last season seeing some players moving on Cambridge United have steadily been recruiting looking for the right players to build the side going forwards with Sarah Wiltshire the stellar sighing during the summer has weighed in with 15 goals so far top scorer from 11 appearances. Francesca Partridge another new addition to the attack scoring 6 to date. 

  Defender Abbie Jackson coming in from Ipswich Town Women before Christmas, Cambridge have continue to recruit building a large squad with Sydnie Naylor joining having had playing experience with Arsenal and Notts Forest. Another 2 new addition announced before today’s match too with defender Mayzee Seymour coming in from Harlow and Bella Simmons re-joining the club after spells away with Royston Town Women and rivals Cambridge City Ladies. 11 points from 8 played will be aiming to push into the top 5.

  Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women are newly promoted to the FAWNL for the first time in their history having won the London and South East Regional Premier Division like the ERWFL an extremely tough league to get out of. That said Ashford made it look easy last season winning all but 2 of their 20 league games and those ending in a draw. Have several familiar names in the side with experience at this level having played for Denham United Ladies, most notably Alissa Down who captains the side. Ashley Cheatley top scorer for the Middlesex side so far this season netting 13 goals from 12 appearances with Alissa Down on 7 from 12 played. Collecting 10 points from their opening 8 matches are well clear of the bottom two just a point behind today’s opponents and well placed to challenge for the top 5 themselves. The points shared between the sides when Cambridge United visited Ashford at the beginning of the season the game ending 3-3.

 St Neots Town FC’s, Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s league encounter the grass pitch looking in great condition with a 4G pitch situated behind the main stadium. Viewing all round with covered terraces both ends and a seated stand housing the changing rooms and clubhouse beneath. The wind fairly blustery prior to kick-off dull and overcast a strong down pour coming minutes before kick-off retreated to the stands to take my notes, as it was the rain would stop the instant the players walked out onto the pitch taking the windy weather with it. The sun even poking through for a moment.

Cambridge United WFC  starting XI – Lauren Webb, Abbi Griffin, Abi Davies, Abbie Jackson, Rachel Kosky, Gisela Otten (C), Sammy Edgar, Sydnie Naylor, Ella Marden, Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Alysha Stojko-Down, Francesca Partridge, Libby Fraser & Mayzee Seymour.

Cambridge United WFC

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women starting XI – Sophie Shults, Ellen Clarabut, Jade Johnson, Hannah Duncan, Laura Huse, Aimee Durn, Alissa Down (C), Kayleigh Currivan, Millie Constantine, Elizabeth O’Callaghan & Ashley Cheatley. Subs – Eman Kassem & Ellie Luscombe.

Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  Bella Simmons is in the starting line-up for Cambridge today with the other new signing Mayzee Seymour on the bench, Abbi Griffin a late change to the starting line-up coming in for Carrie Bennett at left back. Ashford travelling up from Middlesex with 5 players unavailable naming just the 2 on their bench. Having left the pitch after the warm-up to some pretty unsavoury weather the players return to bright sunshine prompting a change of ends with Ashford switching ends to put the sun in Cambridge’s faces in the first half (not that it was going to last long) Cambridge to get the game underway wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Ashford also known as The Tangerines in their away kit to day a very nice looking all purple affair. 

 The ball played back to the defend, Ashford rush forwards to close down pressure the ball centre backs Rachel Kosky and Abbie Jackson manoeuvring the ball out for Cambridge into midfielder Sammy Edgar who sends it long to the right for Ella Marden, Ellen Clarabut heading it away for Ashford. The visitors bring the ball on up their left the diagonal ball into the box intercepted by Cambridge’s Jackson cleared away to the right. The recent rain making the pitch slick the ball skipping on players sliding in. Ashford presenting a solid back line with the midfield close not allowing Cambridge any space to exploit through the middle.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Abbie Jackson

   Cambridge look to get the ball out wide Abi Davies passing it on for Marden on the right wing presses forwards breaking into the area holding off her challenger closing in on the near post pulls the trigger, Ashford goalkeeper Sophie Shults down smartly to save push the ball wide across her six yard box, Bella Simmons retrieving the ball beyond the far post turns back inside see’s her shot blocked by centre back Laura Huse the rebound straight to Sarah Wiltshire her first time shot similarly blocked by Hannah Duncan. 

  Coming on with the ball through the middle Ashford captain Alissa Down opens up her body attempting to thread the ball through to Ashley Cheatley in attack, Jackson with a timely interception for Cambridge. Ashford sitting back a little allowing Cambridge time on the ball at the back a clever pass from Davies brought down well by Wiltshire in attack  she flicks it over the top on the right for Marden to attack can’t quite get to it before the ball runs out of play. 

Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire

  Marden with a strike from 25 yards out coming in from the right wing fired straight at the Ashford keeper. Shults untroubled. Sydnie Naylor looking sharp on the ball in the middle for Cambridge moving left to combine with Simmons, the forwards pass, cut out for Ashford’s Huse. The defender hurt is down needing treatment after assessment is allowed back on. Cambridge applying some pressure now as Naylor comes on with the ball well plays it on for Wiltshire 20 yards out left of the D is forced out wide the keeper initially coming towards her back peddling as Wiltshire wriggles free of her marker to play the ball back across the top of the box for Naylor positioned inside her strike rising Shults is back in position to catch it cleanly.

Cambridge’s Sydnie Naylor up against Ashford captain Alissa Down

  No advantage for Ashford as referee Richard Fullicks brings play back for the set-piece a free kick some 35 yards out, Down on the ball plays a teasing ball in across the far post, no one there to attack it. Cambridge get caught on possession as they play it between themselves at the back Kayleigh Currivan stealing it then threading a pass into Millie Constantine pulling away right of the D to shoot, Lauren Webb shuffling across her goal though has it covered seeing it safely wide of her right post.

   Jackson finds Simmons out wide on the left on half way, turns pulling neatly away from her marker on the ball to run in behind and send the low pass into Wiltshire central, carries the ball wide left into the area before cutting back inside to scoop a lobbed shot up over the keeper, the ball landing on the roof of the net. Ashford are a little slow to close Cambridge down as the defenders look to get the ball into the midfield with Edgar, Naylor and captain Gisela Otten attempting to speed things up get the ball into Wiltshire to run at the visitors defence. 

Cambridge’s Bella Simmons

  A late flag see’s Simmons waved offside, as Wiltshire lifts the ball in to the middle from the right wing, Shults rushing out to save bravely at her feet unaware of the raised flag. The goalkeeper down for a moment able to play on. Jade Johnson bringing the ball on for Ashford on the right passing it forwards for Constantine the ball cut out by Griffin for Cambridge. Constantine getting involved in the action in a central position with a clever turn on the ball 25 yards out looking to find Elizabeth O’Callaghan in the box as she breaks inside from the left, Kosky with a fine headed clearance for the hosts.

Ashford’s Millie Constantine

   The game settling down Ashford’s attackers looking to press Cambridge’s defenders as they linger on the ball at the back now force an error win a free-kick just outside the box to the left of the D. Down is something of a dead ball specialist over the free-kick a packed penalty box ahead of her strikes the ball well low and hard through bodies Webb would have seen it late but close to her adjusts quickly to get down to make the save with 20 minutes gone.

Down’s free-kick saved by Lauren Webb

  GOAL! Having had a free-kick moments before Cambridge have players up as they get the ball out to Simmons on the left inside the area has support with Wiltshire plays the ball back into her the Cambridge number 7 taking the ball across the top of the area looking for an opening, well tracked instead sees Otten free to attack the ball central lays it into her path, Cambridge’s captain running in to strike the ball 20 yards out rising with a bit of swerve Shults may well have got the faintest of touches as she throws herself up at it the ball cannoning down into the six yard box off the crossbar, players rushing for it, Naylor first to arrive smashing the ball into the back of the net to score 1-0.

Sydnie Naylor opens the scoring for Cambridge

  Ashford looking for a quick response from the restart as Cheatley gets on the move with the ball through the middle attempting to release Constantine into the box from the right side the pass a little to heavy Webb able to claim. Ashford battling for possession in the middle Aimee Durn breaking clear 25 yards out, Jackson reading her intent rushing out to charge her strike down the ball deflected up into the air over Jackson into the box, scrambled away at the far post for a corner kick. Down to take an inswinging delivery to the far post Duncan under it sends her header up over the crossbar. 

Ashford defender, Hannah Duncan

 

  The Cambridge goal livening Ashford up as they look to better compete for the ball Naylor escaping with it to the left for Cambridge sends it on for Wiltshire pulling into the channel turning inside with the ball pulling the trigger from 20 out can only pick out Shults in the Ashford goal. More good footwork from Constantine as she comes away with the ball in the middle support from Durn the ball lifted into the box as Cheatley bursts forwards can’t quite take it before it runs out of play. Marden moving inside from the right feeding the ball across the area 20 yards out for Wiltshire her effort sliced runs narrowly wide of the far post. 

  Ashford win a corner on the left players coming up from the back with 15 minutes left in the first period, Down with another inswinging delivery beyond the far post turned back across goal inside the six yard box attacked, Kosky throwing her body up to block the ball deflected away for another corner.

 GOAL! Ashford have looked a threat from set-pieces and from the 2nd corner they score another potent delivery from Down this time her inswinging ball in low at the near post wrong foots Webb, the Cambridge goalkeeper unable to adjust as she struggles to keep it from crossing the line, Ashford equalise the players rushing to Down to celebrate 1-1.

Alissa Down with Bella Simmons

  Cheatley with a strike from outside the box for Ashford left of the D swerves wide of the far post. Durn seeing the ball into her feet central goes on for Ashford not closed down pulls the trigger her strike from distance racing wide of the far post. The visitors on the front foot in the latter stages of the 1st half. Getting a little ragged in the middle a few late challenges coming in. Otten with the ball for Cambridge into Naylor going forwards with Wiltshire plays it out to Simmons wide left into the area attempts to get a shot away off the outside of her right boot, the ball cut out by the back tracking Huse behind for a corner kick. 

Ashford attacker, Ashley Cheatley

 Ashford with plenty back for the corner clear as the ball is played in to the top of the area. Edgar with a great times pass forwards for Cambridge to Wiltshire in attack carrying it forwards Huse gets on her shoulder to defend see the ball back to her keeper. Johnson needed in defence too to deal with the threat of Wiltshire as the Cambridge striker evades a tackle on the top of the area comes left. 

 Ashford with a free-kick wide on the right as Otten pulls down Cheatley. Down to play it in a dangerous cross in through the six yard box, met by Huse at the far post headed home however it won’t count as the offside flag is raised against her a close call. Another free-kick for Ashford this one 30 yards out to the left, Down goes for it this time her shot rising over the bar. Into stoppage time Cambridge on the attack the ball into Wiltshire 20 out finds Simmons wide left to the by-line cuts it back up to Edgar to play across the area into Marden right corner, Down back to put in the tackle before she can get a shot away.

Ashford midfielder, Aimee Durn

  Edgar with a crisp pass into Wiltshire racing forwards in attack her touch sending the ball out to the left, tempting Shults to come for it, Wiltshire winning the race however, the goalkeeper caught out of position as players rush back to defend the goal the angle against Wiltshire shifts it between her feet to create a better one, not much to aim at Shults back to cover her near post Wiltshire looks to place it no power the goalkeeper can claim it.   

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

 An intriguing first half, a bright start from Cambridge allowed the ball, a cautious start from Ashford allowing their opponents to come on kept a solid shape  slow to close Cambridge breaking the dead lock in the 20th minute taking the lead woke Ashford up as they looked strong in reply getting set-pieces to trouble the hosts finding the equaliser from one. Both creating other opportunities Cambridge closest to getting a 2nd level at the break set up perfectly for the 2nd half.

  The weather remains settled the suns brief appearance over the clouds returning. Ashford to get the 2nd half underway neither side with a change. Down with the ball her pass forwards into Cheatley is tackled by Edgar. Ashford get the ball into Cheatley as she breaks into the box on the right, Jackson defending the ball off Cheatley for a goalkick. 

  Marden with the ball at her feet on the right for Cambridge turns infield 25 out lifts a diagonal ball into the area is over Wiltshire falls to Simmons breaking in behind at the far post the flag up denying her a shot. Durn is brought down 25 yards out giving the visitors another free-kick to the right of the D. Down’s shot striking the Cambridge wall deflected up and behind for a corner on the left. The delivery swung in across goal, Jackson up decisively at the far post to head the ball clear for Cambridge. 

Abbie Jackson heading clear for Cambridge

  Ashford making a lively start to the 2nd half a more open game. Naylor controlling the ball well moves wide picking out Simmons on the left flank can’t find Wiltshire with her lay off. Naylor with a good win taking the ball high on the right forwards for Wiltshire wide of the area the angle acute can only send her shot across the face of goal. Ashford with a throw on the right Cambridge looking to defend it, won by Otten her well struck clearance catching teammate Davies on the side of the head knocking her to the ground. Play stopped, Davies needing a few moments to get her bearing is made of tough stuff however and able to play on.

Gisela Otten about to knock out her own teammate

  Both sides looking to get the ball moving faster in the final 3rd Wiltshire moving about the defence coming right has Simmons over on that side with her as she sends the ball on Simmons in a race to the box with Duncan the central defender doing enough to get a touch on the ball take it away from the attacker allowing her keeper to claim. Wiltshire does well to spin off the defence break into the area left of the D, swings her foot through the ball looks certain to score, not sure if Shults got a touch on the ball as she throws herself down, the ball runs wide however and a goal kick is given. 

 Cambridge turning the screw as they look to retake the lead the Ashford defence starting to tire. Cheatley in attack however retaining a good turn of pace breaking towards the box forcing a block from both Jackson and Kosky before the ball is cleared to safety. Naylor into Simmons left plays in on for Wiltshire a fraction ahead of the defence, shoots from the left of the D her effort brushing the side netting. Cambridge making the first change of the game bringing off Naylor in midfield, replacing her with Alysha Stojko-Down.

Cambridge’s Ella Marden

Stojko-Down straight into the action with a diagonal ball for Marden to chest down bringing her inside 20 yards out then strikes the ball on the volley goalwards attempting to chip the keeper a fine attempt but an equally good pluck down from Shults. Marden with the ball out on the right squaring it into the six yard box for Wiltshire won’t sit for the attacker as both Huse and Duncan get a blocking tackle in to deny a clear shot. Shults down needing treatment in the Ashford goal, the bench calling the rest of the players over for instruction with 20 minutes left to play.

Ashford defender, Laura Huse

  Both full backs are tiring for Ashford, Johnson stretching to make the challenge, does well to deflect the ball off Simmons for a goalkick as she attempts to break on the left. Cambridge with the momentum getting the ball into her attackers, Currivan with Down winning it back on for Constantine up with Durn and O’Callaghan on the right the shot struck from outside the box over. The visitors regrouping to battle for possession higher up the pitch Down out to Johnson on the right Down breaking forwards right of the area Johnson picking her out with the pass cuts back inside to shoot, her strike knocking another Cambridge defender to the ground, but again up and okay.

Ashford’s Jade Johnson

  Marden has picked up an injury for Cambridge needs to come off Francesca Partridge on to join the Cambridge attack. Cambridge win a free-kick out wide on the right inside the Ashford half an opportunity for players to come forwards from the back Wiltshire to play it in superb flighted towards the far post Kosky bursting from the pack up to head it, a glancing header sent wide wouldn’t have known it but her fellow centre back Jackson beyond would have had the better chance. 

 

  Another chance for Cambridge moments later as the hosts feed the ball through the middle into Simmons in attack going forwards rides a challenge to get into the area before pulling the trigger Shults down smartly making an excellent save to turn the ball wide of her left post for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Cambridge with plenty up for the corner looking to press the advantage, the ball fired into the area Ashford get it clear out to Cheatley holding position halfway left side sees the ball into her feet and turns the counter is on as she races forwards Cambridge’s defenders frantically racing back as Cheatley turns inside getting past one inside to send the ball out to O’Callaghan right in the clear, Webb makes the call to come out to the top of her area and try and close the attacker down can’t get down in time as O’Callaghan slots the ball under her to send it through into the open goal beyond 1-2.

Elizabeth O’Callaghan firing Ashford into the lead

  15 minutes left to play and Ashford having been under some pressure from Cambridge find themselves in front with a superb break from a corner. Cambridge get after the ball from the restart looking for a quick reply, Wiltshire winning a corner on the right. Played into the area headed out to the left retrieved by Simmons her strike back in blocked at the near post. Simmons over on the right now sending the pass inside for Wiltshire 25 yards out moves across the area looking to curl a left for shot into the top corner sails wide of the post. 

  Huse with an interception at the back for Ashford as Davies attempts to play a diagonal pass into Partridge. Simmons inside form the right with the turn on the ball top of the box to clip a cross into Wiltshire attacking the six yard box the flag raised even before Wiltshire buries her header into the back of the net, no goal. Davies breaking up the pitch on the right for Cambridge sending a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Johnson rising at the far post to head clear for Ashford. Duncan in to close Wiltshire down as she attempts to get onto a Davies pass. 

Ashford with their first change late in the game Constantine comes off with Ellie Luscombe coming on. A much needed injection of pace Luscombe after the ball inside to Durn tackled by Otten into Stojko-Down on for Simmons right her cross cut out by Huse inside the six yard box. Cheatley alert to any chance Ashford have to counter, finding the ball at her feet 30 yards out moves inside before shooting putting the ball straight at Webb.

 Simmons winning Cambridge a late corner on the right before it’s taken a change for Ashford, Clarabut struggling needs to come off on comes Eman Kassem. The corner into the mix the header powers over the crossbar. Ashford working hard to defend their own goal alert whenever a counter in on to relieve the pressure breaking forwards Down into Cheatley across the top of the area her shot drilled wide. Davies coming off for Cambridge with Seymour on for her debut at right back. Down shown a yellow card for Ashford late in the game.

A free-kick to Cambridge left side flighted into the near post area, Shults up amongst bodies getting her fist n the ball knocked down the keeper is grounded as Cambridge attempt to get a shot in along the ground Shults able to snatch it into her midriff. 

 Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women

  A battling performance from Ashford sees them come away with the 3 points and their first win of 2023. The result seeing Ashford climb 3 places to move up to 5th in the FAWNL South East Division One table. Level at the break Cambridge looked to be turning the screw 2nd half getting forwards well creating chances coming close to taking the lead themselves before being hit with a sucker punch a break form their own corner, taken well by Ashford to take the lead themselves with 15 minutes left to play. On another day might well have been 2-1 the other way but that’s football you take your chances Ashford working hard throughout had to dig in as a team at times and their defence was superb. Cambridge will be disappointed had the chances to win the game themselves just weren’t taken on the day.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of 2023. It’s not often they’re easy and today is not exception some fine performances all round. Firstly for Cambridge, Sarah Wiltshire did everything she could to get a goal with some great runs and movement on and off the ball. Bella Simmons was impressive on her return to Cambridge United lively on the flank looking to combine with Wiltshire create chances. So too Sydnie Naylor in midfield good control and movement throughout. Ashford with a hard working team performance had to dig in at the back at times. Alissa Down dangerous on the ball be it in play or dead. Sophie Shults strong in goal with a couple of crucial saves, the centre backs superb too. Hannah Duncan with several strong challenges and well timed interceptions is just edged out by fellow defender, Laura Huse, again work hard throughout tacking and winning the ball when called upon.

 That’s it then the 500th match report written and as exciting as the first. Been doing it for a while now and it’s knowing that every game is different that makes it so special after all I only write the words it’s the players who make the content. 500 down and plenty more to come still lots of teams I want to see in action. Another enjoyable game good to get the new year started my thanks to both teams for their help today.

by Darren Gilham