One game played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this weekend, saw Portsmouth FC Women making the trip up into Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies. Jasmine Turner putting the hosts into the lead on the half hour, Portsmouth goalkeeper Hannah Haughton with the initial save, Turner in on the follow up to make it 1-0. Portsmouth with a good response getting straight back on level terms, their attacking players pressing the Cardiff defence, Charmaine True winning the ball back 25 yards out Tasmin De Bunsen taking over bringing it forwards to strike a low shot in from the top of the area the ball racing past the inside of the post evading the diving keeper. The sides all square at the break, chances for both to win the match 2nd half Portsmouth seeing a goal ruled out before finding the winner with 15 minutes left possession out on the right the ball played back across defender Eilidh Currie coming forward into acres of space teeing up a shot from 25 yards out her strike looping up over the keeper into the top corner. Portsmouth winning 2-1 their good away form continuing 3 wins out of 4 in the league on their travels.
FAWNL Cup
Two ties played this Sunday in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL featuring sides in the leagues covered by Women’s Football East, both going the distance and beyond. Southern Premier Division side Yeovil Town Women hosting Southampton FC Women from South West Division One at Dorchester Town FC. Yeovil making a good start, Charlotte Buxton’s shot smashing down off the crossbar in the 8th minute, top scorer Sarah Wiltshire on hand to put the ball over the line for her 14th goal of the season. Southampton leading the South West Division One table unbeaten in all competitions so far this season coming close to levelling the scores hitting the post, Yeovil with further chances to extend their lead with the 1 goal advantage at the break. The visitors with a good start to the 2nd period Ella Pursey heading in her 10th goal of the season to make it 1-1. Few chances created 2nd half Southampton seeing the ball come back off the woodwork once again the game heading into extra-time. The visitors finding the winning goal to advance into the quarter finals a deflected ball sent into the path of attacker Sophie Pharoah who slots the ball home.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies with a good result in the previous round of the FAWNL Cup away from home beating fellow Southern Premier Division side Cardiff City Ladies on penalties to advance. Penalties needed once again in the 2nd Round as the club travelled to Essex to take on South East Division One side AFC Basildon Women in the 2nd Round. One goal in it at half-time Jessica Driscoll putting Milton Keynes 1-0 up. Basildon making a good start to the 2nd half back on level term within 5 minutes of the restart Holly Turner firing home. The hosts quickly going on to lead Grace Gillard scoring from a free-kick to make it 2-1. Milton Keynes turn to come back to level the scores midway through the 2nd half Driscoll with her 2nd of the match. Rhianne Rush firing the visiting side into the lead 3-2 to Milton Keynes with 15 minutes left her first goal of the season. Basildon with an injury time equaliser to send the tie into extra-time Kelly Wealthall credited with the goal. The extra period of play yielding no further goals the game to be settled from the penalty spot, Milton Keynes goalkeeper Emma Kirby with 2 saves as Basildon failed to convert their 1st 3 kicks, Milton Keynes composed to put theirs away to win it 3-0 to book their place in the quarter finals of the competition.
FAWNL Plate
Two games also played this Sunday in the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate featured sides from the Southern Premier & South East Division One. AFC Wimbledon Ladies unbeaten so far this season in South East Division One making the long trip to the South West to play high flying Plymouth Argyle Ladies 3rd in the Southern Premier Division. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Helen Bleazard’s free-kick parried down by Wimbledon’s keeper, top scorer Natasha Knapman fastest to react sending the ball over the lien for her 18th goal of the season. Knapman on target for Plymouth’s 2nd goal in the 18th minute striking home from 30 yards. Soon after Plymouth went 3-0 in front awarded a penalty, Zoe Cunningham taking as regular taker and captain Katie Middleton was deputising in goal. No mistake from Cunningham putting away her 5th goal of the season. Plymouth 3-0 comfortable at half-time. Wimbledon came out fighting 2nd half looking to find a route back into the game, awarded a penalty in the 65th minute Georgia Heasman got it back to 3-1, that though as close as Wimbledon would get Plymouth securing their spot in the quarter finals.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies, Natasha Knapman (photo credit Tim Badger Photos)
Also advancing into the FAWNL Plate quarter finals are Watford Ladies although the Southern Premier Division leaders left it late to secure victory against fellow league side Oxford United Women. Watford hosting finding themselves trailing 1-0 at the break with Oxford getting their noses in front late in the first half with Catherine Beaver scoring the goal. That the score heading into the final 5 minutes of the match Adekite Fatuga-Dada with the run playing in Andrea Carid to put in the cross, Emily Hill meeting it on the volley to level the scores. A minute later Watford were in front Helen Ward played in by Fatuga-Dada to turn and strike home her 9th goal of the season to see Watford take the game 2-1.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two league games played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend and at last Kent Football United are celebrating a win and their 1st league points at the 10th time of asking. A tough start to life playing at this level for the 1st time close on a couple of ocassions before now. Were at home playing fellow promoted side Cambridge City Ladies. Beatrice Fitzsimons hitting the crossbar from a volley. Kent Football United taking the lead scoring from a free-kick. Cambridge City responding well however Kent were to go on and double their lead before half-time. The woodwork rattled again by Cambridge, Sofia Castiglione with the strike. Pushing for a goal, denied by the woodwork for a third time Kent coming forwards winning another free-kick outside the area scoring to make it 3-0. Once more the woodwork coming to Kent’s defence as they battle hard to keep their lead, Fitzsimons with a cracking strike pulling a goal back for Cambridge with 5 minutes left but it wasn’t to be their day that belonged to Kent Football United a win at last. Chloe Francis with a brace her first goals of the season and one for Amy Russ gaining them their 1st 3 points.
Elsewhere in South East Division One the points were shared with Actonians Ladies travelling up to Norfolk to play Norwich City Women. The visitors opening the scoring in the 1st half, Chelsea Garrett with her 11th goal of the season getting Norwich back on level terms. Actonians coming back to retake the lead before half-time went on to open up a 3-1 lead in the 2nd period, top scorer Alessandra Barreca with a brace to take her onto 11 for the season, with Justine Buckmire celebrating her first Actonians goal. Eliza McDonald with her first goal of the season bringing it back to 3-2 for Norwich, McDonald was on target with a 2nd of the game to see Norwich secure a point with it finishing 3-3.
Match action from Norwich v Actonians on Sunday (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier League this Sunday. Moving 3 points clear of Watford Ladies who weren’t in action. 4 matches played in the league this weekend Crawley Wasps were at home taking on Portsmouth FC Women. Goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs back in after serving a suspension, Emma Plewa back in the squad after a spell out with injury. Portsmouth back in action after 3 weeks following a couple of postponed fixtures.
Crawley Wasps taking the lead soon after the opening quarter hour, Natasha Stephens running in on goal heading in close on goal as a left wing cross drops to her. Portsmouth coming back to equalise 10 minutes later a long range shot tipped onto the bar by Gibbs, Jade Widdows quickest to react latching onto the ball to make it 1-1. Crawley Wasps coming straight back to retake the lead, Plewa running into the left channel taking the ball into the box and finishing clinically for her first goal of the season. The visitors reduced to 10 on the half hour, Katie Jones shown a straight red. A player down Portsmouth battled on 2nd half Crawley Wasps eventually extending their lead in the final 15 minutes Plewa racing through onto a long ball forwards travelling into the box and slotting the ball under the keeper to see the match won 3-1.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue to apply pressure to the top two in the Southern Premier Division extending their winning run to 9 matches now in all competitions. A 7th straight league win coming this Sunday on their travels against bottom side Chichester City Ladies. An even start to the game Plymouth growing stronger as the 1st half progressed the dead lock broken late in the half Amber Pollock 40 yards out hitting a rocket on the half volley to make it 1-0. Plymouth with a 1 goal lead going into the 2nd half have been scoring plenty of goals this season. Mollie Taylor making her 150th appearance for the club this Sunday making it 2-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half, heading in from a corner kick. Chances for both sides before Plymouth made it 3-0 from another corner in the 71st minute, captain Katie Middleton heading in at the near post. Into the final 10 minutes and a quickfire double from top scorer Natasha Knapman seeing Plymouth wrap up a 5-0 win.
Yeovil Town Women climb back up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after a a 3rd straight league win. Playing at home this weekend taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women who themselves have now suffered 6 straight defeats in the league. Jamie Sherwood returning to Yeovil as manager in his first game in charge. An even start Yeovil taking the lead with Annie Heatherson moving out wide delivering the cross for Kelly Aldridge to score. The hosts reduced to 10 with half an hour played attacker Sarah Wiltshire receiving a straight red card. Yeovil with a narrow lead at the break. Despite being a player short creating chances, Aldridge coming close early on rattling the crossbar. A crucial 2nd goal coming as Meesha Dudley-Jones drives on to the corner of the 18 yard box and unleashes a shot into the top corner. Goalkeeper Beth Howard keeping Milton Keynes out at the other end with a double goal line save from a corner. The visitors pulling it back to 2-1 from another corner late in the game 10 player Yeovil holding on to win the 3 points.
Keynsham Town Ladies getting a good result on the road on Sunday in the Southern Premier Division away to Oxford United Women to see their good run of results continue 7 points from their last 3 matches now after losing all of their opening 6 games following promotion to the league join Milton Keynes Dons Women on 7 points. Justine Lorton’s 16th minute goal proving the difference between the sides. Oxford creating numerous chances with a host of corners unable to get a reply, Keynsham goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes making a number of fine saves to ensure the 3 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
One match played in FAWNL South East Division One this weekend with Stevenage FC Women travelling up to Cambridgeshire to face Cambridge City Ladies. The hosts opening the scoring in the 20th minute Sofia Castiglione netting from a free-kick. Stevenage coming straight back to level the scores Ashleigh Deacon heading in at the back post. Cambridge City retaking the lead before half-time Charlotte Gillies racing through on the right her shot across the keeper parried into the path of Laura Mills to turn into the back of the net. 2-1 up at the break, Stevenage pressing for a 2nd goal in the on the counter attack Erin Pope’s crossed ball in looping over the keeper into the net beyond to make it 2-2. Cambridge City with a penalty shout late on not given the sides sharing the points both moving up a place in the table.
Sofia Castiglione with the opening goal of the match for Cambridge City Ladies (photo credit Gary Reed)
Two matches played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday featuring the bottom 3 sides. Chichester City Ladies young side at home to high flying Watford Ladies the visitors looking to return to the top of the table. Chichester with just the one point on board so far a difficult start to the season. Katie O’Leary getting Watford off to the perfect start opening the scoring with barely 3 minutes played. Chichester straight back on level terms Megan Fox scoring a screamer to make it 1-1. Isobelle Foster making a couple of important saves to keep Watford from retaking the lead the hosts scoring with half and hour played Gemma Simmonds chipping the keeper to make it 2-1. Captain Helen Ward bringing Watford back level for the 2nd time in the game 5 minutes before half-time pouncing on a poor back pass to slot the ball past the keeper for her 7th goal of the season. Watford pressing for a 3rd goal in the 2nd period chances coming eventually finding it as the game moved into the final 20 minutes O’Leary with her 5th strike of the season putting the ball into the top corner to see the game won and put Watford back on top of the table.
The other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this weekend saw Hounslow Town bottom with just a point on the board at home to Keynsham Town Ladies who after starting the season with 6 straight defeats following promotion got their first league win of the season at home to fellow strugglers Chichester last time out. Now away to Hounslow the first half saw few clear chances Hounslow getting their noses in front in the 15th minute Sue Kumaning with great footwork top of the area turning and looping a shot up beyond the keeper. Keynsham improving 2nd half an early opportunity to level the visitors equalised just past the hour Barbara Maros De Carvalho arriving unmarked in six yard box to meet a left wing cross to score her 1st of the season. 1-1 Keynsham pressed for a winner Caoimhe O’Reilly with a double save ensuring Hounslow didn’t concede again and see both sides take a point enough to lift Hounslow above Chichester at the bottom.
FAWNL South East Division One
Ipswich Town Women move 3 points clear at the top of FAWNL South East Division One although they left it late scoring an injury time goal to beat Enfield Town Ladies away from home on Sunday. One of two matches played in the league this weekend, Ipswich travelling down to 5th placed Enfield Town Ladies looking to make it 7 straight wins on the league following an opening day draw. Ipswich striking the post in the 18th minute captain Amanda Crump striking from outside the box. Enfield taking the lead in the 36th minute awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position outside the Ipswich box the low struck shot taking a deflection off the wall taking it into the path of Tia Bailey moving in on the follow up reacted quickly to fire the ball home. Late chances in the half for Ipswich to level a goal disallowed Enfield with the slender lead. Ipswich getting the equaliser on the hour Natasha Thomas heading the ball across goal Maddie Biggs in position to poke the ball home 1-1. Ipswich knocking on the door late in the game chances coming Thomas getting the winning goal in the 94th minute a mix up at the back allowing her to steal in an tap the ball in score her 7th goal of the season and win the 3 points for Ipswich.
Natasha Thomas celebrating with her Ipswich teammates (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Actonians Ladies heading over to Kent this weekend to face bottom side Kent Football United, the newly promoted side without a point yet this season. Actonians beating Kent Football United 3-1 in the Women’s FA Cup earlier in the season. Kent Football United opening the scoring this Sunday Shannon Burden putting them 1-0 in the first half. Actonians coming back to level the scores on the stroke of half-time Alessandra Barreca with her 7th goal of the campaign. The visitors with 2 goals in the 2nd half to secure victory Barreca credited with one more in the 80th minute. Actonians with their 3rd league win of the season climbing a couple of places in the South East Division One table up to 7th.
FAWNL Plate
Two 1st Round games to complete this Sunday from the FAWNL Plate, a tough test for Norwich City Women’s young squad as the South East Division One side travelled to play Southern Premier Division side Oxford United Women. The hosts getting off to a flyer taking the lead on the 7th minute Sophie Barker lining up a shot from distance squeezing underneath the goalkeeper and in. 5 minutes later Oxford were 2-0 up striker Cheryl Williams finishing at the back post. Norwich getting it back to 2-1 on 20 minutes, captain Millie Daviss firing home with a 30 yard strike. Oxford creating opportunities awarded a penalty on the half hour Carly Jones tripped inside the box, Williams stepping up to make it 3-1. Jones getting on the scoresheet herself late in the first half to see Oxford leading 4-1 at the break.
Oxford continuing where they left off at the start of the 2nd half coming close with a couple of chances before Williams scooped the ball over the keeper to complete her hat-trick. Brogan Moore putting Oxford 6-1 up with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Georgia Timms only entering the game moments before getting a goal with her first touch of the ball making it 7-1 to Oxford. Immy Lancaster with her first Oxford goal wrapping up a comfortable 8-1 win in the final minute.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies unbeaten in FAWNL South East Division One were on the road in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate taking on South West Division One side, Brislington Ladies. Few chances in the 1st half Wimbledon edging it with a goal in the 40th minute to lead at half-time, Georgia Heasman with the tap in following a good through ball from Sian Wylie. Wimbledon with a couple of opportunities to extend their lead at the start of the 2nd period, before Brislington came back to level in the 57th minute with Shannon Burden making it 1-1. Wimbledon introducing Katie Stanley and Sophie Manzi go the game on the hour. Stanley scoring what would prove to be the winning goal in the 78th minute a mazy run forwards passing to Heasman getting back the return ball and shooting to see Wimbledon lead 2-1.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate listed below ties scheduled to be played Sunday 24th November:-
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Newcastle United Women
Nottingham Forest Women v Leeds United Ladies
West Bromich Albion Women v Leicester United WFC or Leafield Athletic Ladies
Stockport County Ladies v Middlesborough Women
Plymouth Argyle Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Maidenhead United Women v Stevenage FC Women
Watford Ladies v Oxford United Women
Cheltenham Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies
FAWNL Cup
The draw made to for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup 8 ties scheduled for Sunday 24th November outstanding 1st Round games will see some ties played later:-
Brighouse Town Ladies v Darby County Ladies
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Long Eaton United or Liverpool Feds Women
Chorley Women or Durham Cestria v AFC Sunderland Ladies
Stoke City Ladies v Wolverhampton Wanderers Women
Yeovil Town Women v Southampton FC Women
Crawley Wasps Ladies v Portsmouth FC Women
AFC Basildon Women v Milton Keynes Dons Women
Chesham United Ladies or Exeter City Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies
Crawley Wasps Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division scoring 2 goals late on their match on Sunday away to Milton Keynes Dons Women to win the 3 points. Late goals the theme of the week for Crawley both fore and against. A point collected in midweek as they took on Gillingham Ladies at home on Wednesday evening. Natasha Stephens seeing Crawley take the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half lat drama saw 2 more goals come in the final moments of the game. Ellie Jeffkins getting Gillingham back on level terms in the 88th minute. Back came Crawley to retake the lead a minute later with captain Naomi Cole on target. Grace Harrison lobbing the keeper in stoppage time to see Gillingham take a point home with them.
This Sunday Crawley Wasps headed to the Stadium MK. Milton Keynes having made a promising start to the season, falling down the table in a rut of poor results just one point won from their last 6 league matches. Have yet to win at home this season either. A first half that saw few chances the sides goalless at the break. Both coming on 2nd half coming close with shots Crawley hitting the crossbar from a corner with 87 minutes on the clock the visitors breaking the deadlock in the 89th minute. A superb strike from Hope Nash her first goal of the season firing Crawley into the lead. A free-kick won outside the box in stoppage time dispatched clinically by Rachel Palmer to secure the win for Crawley and see them back leading the table having set the early pace.
Cardiff City Ladies climb a place up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table, getting back to winning ways at home to Hounslow Women. Cardiff with a strong first half winning the game 6-1 to close the gap on the leaders. Grace Horrell scoring a brace, so too Nadia Lawrence scoring her first goals of the season. A first goal of the season too for Morgan Rogers. Kelly Issac also getting on the scoresheet with a goal for Cardiff. Hounslow improving 2nd half getting a goal through Sue Kumaning her first for the club. Other results going against them Hounslow slip to the foot of the table.
That result being the clash between fellow strugglers Keynsham Town Ladies at home to Chichester City Ladies on Sunday. Keynsham bottom of the table without a point on the board after 6 played a tough start to the season following promotion as South West Division One champions last season. Chichester now faring much better having lost several players have just one point so far from 7 played. Sharna Capel Watson scoring her first goal for Chichester seeing them drawing with Keynsham 1-1 at the break. Ellie Curson getting on the scoresheet for Keynsham midway through the first half. The winning goal coming in the 70th minute, Curson striking with her 2nd of the match to see Keynsham win for the first time this season 2-1 the 3 points taking the off the bottom above both Hounslow and Chichester.
One more game played in the Southern Premier Division this Sunday although full time has it listed as postponed Oxford United Women were at home taking on Gillingham Ladies. Both with good results in midweek, 27 goals in 3 games now for Oxford including 5 without reply away to Milton Keynes on Wednesday. Gillingham with two late goals away to Crawley taking home a point. This Sunday Oxford dominating the chances in the first half were held to a 0-0 scoreline by Gillingham. The visitors taking the lead themselves 4 minutes into the 2nd half scoring from a 30 yard free-kick which looped over the keeper. Oxford pressing looking for a reply fell further behind just past the hour, Gillingham’s forward brought down inside the box, going 2-0 up from the resulting spot kick. Oxford creating more opportunities couldn’t find a goal, the woodwork struck won a penalty themselves at the death reducing the arrears Gillingham held on to win 2-1 to make it 4 points from the past 7 days.
FAWNL South East Division One
One league game played this Sunday in FAWNL South East Division One, an opportunity for Stevenage FC Women to pull away from the bottom sides as they played host to bottom side Kent Football United. Stevenage looking to build on last weekends great 3-2 cup win away to league leaders Ipswich Town Women. The hosts scoring 3 goals in the first half as Kent wasted opportunities in front of goal. 3-1 the half-time score with captain Amy Makewell on target and first goals for Lucy Webster and Chloe Gunn returning after a long injury lay off. Erin Pope scoring from a free-kick against Ipswich to win the match last time out, her first goal of the season scored for the 2nd successive game another set-piece strike to make it 2-1. Amy Makewell on the scoresheet again for her 10th goal of the season to see Stevenage in full control leading 5-1 with all the goals coming from outside the box. Kent Football United pulling a goal back to make it 5-2 are still bottom and without a point on the board after 6 played. Stevenage with their 3rd league win of the season up to 7th in the table.
10 goals for the season for Stevenage FC Women captain, Amy Makewell (photo credit Gary Reed)
FAWNL Plate
One cup tie played this Sunday from the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate, and all Division One clash with South East side, Cambridge United WFC hosting South West counterparts, Maidenhead United Women. The visitors with an early goal to open the scoring Simone O’Brien scoring from a free-kick in the 6th minute. That the score heading into half-time. Maidenhead battling hard defensively to prevent Cambridge finding a reply keeping a clean sheet to win the game and advance to the next round of the competition.
There is a new side leading the way in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division as Watford Ladies take over the top position winning a 3rd successive league game unbeaten in 6 to move a point clear of previous leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies who were playing in the FAWNL Cup this weekend. Watford making the trip to Kent this Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies. The hosts striking the crossbar early on in the match, Watford too hitting the bar late in the first half from an Emma Beckett free-kick. The sides goalless at the break the deadlock broken on the hour, Watford captain Helen Ward heading home her 6th goal of the season. The visitors quickly doubling their advantage Andrea Carid heading in the cross to score her 5th of the season. Gillingham creating chances Watford hitting the woodwork again the game into the final 15 minutes. Carid striking again to extend Watford’s lead. Emily Hill adding a 4th goal inside the final 5 minutes rising highest from a corner to score.
Crawley Wasps not only lose the lead in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division but are pushed down to 3rd as Plymouth Argyle Ladies continue their impressive start to the season winning six in a row now their only defeat in the league coming on opening day of the season. Weren’t at their best this weekend but showed character to come back from trailing 1-0 at the break away to Cardiff City Ladies to score a last gasp winner. Had goalkeeper Becky Kyle to thank for keeping the score low in the 1st half pulling of two superb saves. Cardiff eventually scoring close to the end of the 1st period, Cori Williams rising from a corner to head in. Cardiff 1-0 up at the break, Plymouth working hard to find a reply in the 2nd half finally got the breakthrough with 15 minutes left on the clock a handball inside the box seeing the visitors awarded a penalty, captain Katie Middleton stepping up to score. 1-1 leading into the final minute Plymouth with a corner kick the ball played into the box, striker Natasha Knapman getting her head on the ball to score her 14th goal of the season and see the match won 2-1. Plymouth holding 2nd spot but going above Crawley Wasps on goal difference off the back of the result.
FAWNL Cup
Three ties from the 1st Round of the FAWNL Cup played this weekend two postponed from last weekend. One of those Crawley Wasps Ladies match at home to South East Division One side Actonians Ladies. Not much between the sides the score 0-0 at half-time. The Southern Premier Division side breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half, the ball falling to Rachel Palmer takes on the shot and scores. Crawley Wasps coming close to adding a 2nd goal but in the end the single goal enough to see them through to the next round of the competition.
Also postponed last Sunday Portsmouth FC Women’s trip to the capital to play South East Division One side Leyton Orient WFC in the 1st Round of the League Cup. The hosts taking the lead inside the opening 15 minutes Otesha Charles rounding the keeper to score her 9th goal of the season to put Leyton Orient 1-0 up. The Southern Premier Division side coming back to level the scores just 4 minutes later, Eilidh Currie through to slot the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-1. Chances for both sides Portsmouth taking the lead past the half hour Charmaine True firing in a shot from a tight angle. True getting a quickfire double onto a spilled cross put in by Currie to put Portsmouth 3-1 up at half-time. Portsmouth extending their lead 7 minutes into the 2nd half, Rebecca bath’s shot deflected up over the keeper to make it 4-1. Jade Widdows introduced to the game in the hour twisting and turning inside the box before firing home to make it 5-1 to the visitors in the 66th minute. Jade Bradley with a shot from 12 yards out seeing Portsmouth win the match 6-1 with 10 minutes left.
Billericay Town Ladies joint leaders in FAWNL South East Division One the home side taking on fellow league side Cambridge City Ladies in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round on Sunday. the game played at Bowers & Pitsea’s Len Salmon Stadium. Billericay leading the match one nil at half-time with a goal from captain Lindsey Morgan. The ball played into her path as she breaks from midfield into the box left of goal to shot past the advancing keeper. Billericay going 2-0 up thanks to a fantastic strike from Jay Blackie, the Billericay midfielder latching onto a stray Cambridge City pass to take the ball on towards their box coming central hitting a superb shot in from over 25 yards out. Paris Smith making her first appearance of the season for Billericay, always a goal threat didn’t take her long to score her first goal of the season the ball put forwards high bouncing Smith getting her head on it top of the area to beat the keeper and make it 3-0. Billericay scoring two wonder goals in the match Hannah Smith striking the ball from all of 30 yards out to find the back of the net a secure a 4-0 win.
FAWNL Plate
One tie played in the 1st Round of the FAWNL Plate competition in the East this Sunday and all South East Division One affair with joint leaders Ipswich Town Women at home to Stevenage FC Women on Sunday. The visitors taking the lead in the 20th minute Louise Godden sending her shot over the keeper to make it 1-0. Ipswich coming back to equalise in the 35th minute. Zoe Cossey with the ball at her feet skipping through the defence to slot the ball under the keeper. The hosts quickly scoring again to take the lead, Natasha Thomas getting her head on the ball from a corner to score. Ipswich leading 2-1 at half-time. Stevenage pressing for a goal in the 2nd half to get back on level terms doing so in the 66th minute Tamsyn Sibanda making her first appearance of the season smashing the ball home from a corner. Captain Amy Makewell seeing the ball come back off the woodwork with 15 minutes left the visitors going on to score a last gasp winner. Erin Pope with her first goal of the season, brought down by the keeper just outside the box to take the set-piece sending it into the bottom corner to win the game an send Stevenage into the next round.
FAWNL South East Division One
Three matches played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday. With the top three all in Cup action this weekend it was a chance for the chasing sides make up ground. AFC Wimbledon remain unbeaten in the league move up to 3rd position above Leyton Orient WFC who they beat 1-0 at home in midweek. At home again this Sunday were taking on Norwich City Women. Liz O’Callaghan putting Wimbledon into the lead on the half hour. Norwich coming back to level the scores with 5 minutes left to play in the first half, Kathryn Stanley shooting from the left to score. Wimbledon coming back to retake the lead 3 minutes later O’Callaghan with her 2nd of the game lobbing the keeper. Wimbledon 2-1 up at half-time. Hannah Billingham putting Wimbledon 3-1 ahead on the hour heading home a Katie Stanley cross, that the final score Wimbledon going 3rd a point behind the leading pair.
Kelley Blanchflower on target for her 6th goal of the season the difference between the sides as Cambridge United WFC held at 1-0 at half-time in Essex away to AFC Basildon Women. Basildon frustrated having dominated the ball 1st half to fin themselves behind pressed hard in the 2nd period looking for a reply the equaliser finally coming midway through the half, Cerys Adams bundling the ball in from a corner kick. A scrappy equaliser a complete contrast to Adams next goal putting Basildon quickly into the lead scoring from range with a superb strike to make it 2-1 with 20 minutes left. Basildon going on to win the 3 points and consolidate their position in the top half of the table.
Cerys Adams shooting to score the winner for AFC Basildon Women (photo credit Little James Photography)
Kent Football United were at home to Enfield Town Ladies at the weekend in FAWNL South East Division one, the newly promoted side bottom without a point on the board. Are beginning to get to grips with playing at a higher level Enfield a tough opponent in 5th spot having started the season well. Kent Football United doing well to hold them to a goalless draw at half-time. Enfield breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half taking the lead in the 48th minute, Hannah Baptiste scoring her 1st goal of the campaign to make it 1-0. The lead doubled 6 minutes later with Tia Bailey firing the ball home to see the 3 points won. All very tight still at the top of the table with Enfeild in 5th spot just 4 points behind the leading pair.
Heavy rainfall across the country overnight on Saturday seeing half the fixtures called off in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division their were 3 matches left but those featuring the top 3 sides leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies 3 points ahead of Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Cardiff City Ladies going into their match at home to Oxford United Women who held the only 100% left in the league going into the game albeit with just 2 matches played to date. Not much between the sides as they contested a goalless 1st half. Oxford beginning well 2nd half taking the lead from a corner in the 51st minute Gemma Sims with the strike. Crawley responding coming back to level 7 minutes later Faye Rabson brought down in the area, captain Naomi Cole sending the penalty home to make it 1-1. Rabson firing the hosts into the lead 5 minutes later, the lead extended to 3-1 midway through the 2nd half a corner from the left floated in to the box Darcey James up well to head the ball down towards goal to score. Crawley holding onto their lead despite having goalkeeper Frankie Gibbs red carded with 10 minutes left to play.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies were looking to continue their great run of form to 5 straight league wins as they travelled to the Stadium MK on Sunday to face Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The hosts aiming to get back to winning ways themselves having collected just 1 point from their last 3 after a promising start to the season. The visitors taking the lead on the 20th minute wit Rebecca Dandridge on target to make it 1-0. Plymouth quickly 2-0 up as Natasha Knapman hit her 11th of the season. Milton Keynes getting it back to 2-1 before half-time, Kim Farrow credited with the goal. Plymouth made a lively start to the 2nd half extending their lead within 2 minutes of the restart with Helen Bleazard getting the goal. Jessie Jones with a superb 25 yard strike making it 4-1 to Plymouth on the hour. A great piece of individual play from Kayleigh Lane seeing Plymouth seal a 5-1 victory in the 89th minute to keep the pressure on leaders Crawley.
Cardiff City Ladies too 3 points behind the leaders going into their match on Sunday away to Yeovil Town Women. The hosts looking to build on last weekends draw away to Watford Ladies after losing the previous two. Chances for both, it was Cardiff who edged it at the break taking the lead midway through the first half. Grace Horrell setting up Gwennan Davies to send the ball past the keeper. Yeovil fighting back in the 2nd period to earn a point equalising from a corner the ball in not clear brought under control by Katie Jones making herself room inside the box to smash a shot in.
FAWNL South East Division One
A big game in FAWNL South East Division One at the start of the season with the top two meeting at the Goldstar Ground on Sunday, 2nd placed Ipswich Town Women 3 points behind leaders Billericay Town Ladies. Both sides unbeaten going into the match dropping just 2 points each. Ipswich attacking looking strong at the start of the game taking the lead on 28 minutes a free-kick awarded outside the area, a fantastic strike smashing down off the crossbar. The ball still in play possession regained wide left a dangerous cross fired in towards the near post, Natasha Thomas with great agility getting down to put her head on the goal and place it across goal wide of the keeper into the back of the net. 1-0. The hosts doubling their lead with a more direct approach with 5 minutes left to play in the first period, Paige Peake scoring direct from a corner angling her looping ball in over the keeper to drop under the bar. Billericay never out of the game working hard to get back into the match 2nd half pulled it back to 2-1, Therese Addison making a huge impact to the side since joining the club a strong individual run down the left carrying the ball on into the box blasting in her 3rd goal in 3 games. Ipswich keeping their Essex opponents at bay to hold onto their lead having opportunities to extend their lead won the 3 points to move level with Billericay on 16 points identical records Billericay top on alphabetical order.
Natasha Thomas (right) celebrating with the opening goal for Ipswich Town Women (photo credit Ross Media UK)
Billericay and Ipswich are not alone at the top of the table with 3rd placed Leyton Orient WFC also matching their 16 point haul, just 2 goals the difference in their record. Were looking to make it 4 straight league wins as they played host to AFC Basildon Women on Sunday. A good start to the game for the visitors Basildon’s young side pressing their opponents, Leyton Orient coming back to end the first half well the sides drawing 0-0. An early opportunity for Basildon to break the dead lock in the 2nd half awarded a 48th minute penalty, goalkeeper Naomi Ogunde moving to her right making the save. The hosts finding the opening goal with 20 minutes left to play attacking down the right the ball put on for captain Sophie Le Marchand to take aim from outside the box and beat the advancing keeper. Leyton Orient strong toward the end of the game a goalkick intercepted played forwards for 2nd half substitute Paige Anderson-Jones making first appearance to score her first goal. 5 minutes left and Leyton Orient wrapped up a 3-0 victory with Otesha Charles on target for her 6th goal.
4th versus 5th in the South East Division One table too at the weekend with AFC Wimbledon in 5th hosting Enfield Town Ladies both sides looking to continue their unbeaten start to the season. All the goals coming in the first half Helen Ogle joining Wimbledon in the summer firing the hosts into an early lead making it 1-0 inside 5 minutes. Enfield coming back to level past the quarter hour through Beth Lumsden. Captain Katie Stanley with two cracking strikes midway through the 2nd half putting Wimbledon 3-1 ahead and seeing the 3 points won taking them above Enfield in the table.
Match action from AFC Wimbledon v Enfield Town (photo credit @MikeyTheTowner)
Points needed elsewhere in the South East Division One table with two games featuring 4 of the bottom 5 sides at the weekend. Norwich City Ladies, looking to build on last Sunday’s home win over newly promoted Kent Football Unite were hosting the other newly promoted side this weekend Cambridge City Ladies who picked up a good point away to AFC Wimbledon last time out. Chelsea Garrett firing Norwich into the lead with her 5th goal of the season. Cambridge City striking to making it 1-1 for Cambridge City the visitors going on to take the lead Megan Tonks setting up Karly Tolentino to make it 2-1 a third goal scored late in the 1st half with Hannah Bodily scoring from a corner her 1st of the season. Norwich coming back well at the start of the 2nd half Natasha Snelling introduced from the bench scoring twice to get the hosts back on level terms. Cambridge City quick to retake the lead Shannon Shaw coming on scoring with her 1st touch to make it 4-3 and see Cambridge City win their first game in FAWNL South East Division One.
Stevenage FC Women having lost 4 matches in a row with just one win this were at home to Cambridge United Women at the weekend the visitors themselves having just 4 points on the board from their opening 6 matches. The hosts getting off the a good start taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Ashleigh Deacon with the run to set up captain Amy Makewell. Cambridge battling to keep a positive Stevenage from going further ahead 1-0 at the break. Stevenage beginning the 2nd period strongly adding a 2nd goal straight away through Gemma Biggadike her first of the season. Makewell getting her 2nd of the game to put Stevenage 3-0 two minutes later. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis with two great saves to deny Cambridge getting a goal back Biggadike with a lob from outside the box securing a 4-0 win for Stevenage in the 65th minute.
Crawley Wasps Ladies 100%winning start to the season was ended at home to Watford Ladies last weekend. Still leading the way by 3 points after 5 matches since being promoted to the Southern Premier Division they were on their travels this Sunday to take on fellow promoted side, Keynsham Town Ladies who were still looking for their first league points after coming up as South West Division One Champions last term. Crawley having created chances in the first half frustrated to be held 0-0 at the break. The visitors getting the break through early in the 2nd half taking the lead in the 54th minute with Maria Ledezma-Viso scoring from out wide to make it 1-0. Proved to be the winner too as Crawley sought to find a 2nd kept Keynsham at bay the other end to bring home the 3 points and return to winning ways.
A strong challenge being mounted behind to keep Crawley on their toes. Plymouth Argyle Ladies excellent run of league form continuing with a successful trip to the capital on Sunday to make it 4 wins from 4. The visitors taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Natasha Knapman on target from a corner kick. Five minutes later and Plymouth had doubled their tally, another for Knapman too as she put in a ball headed across goal from Amber Pollock. Knapman going on to wrap up a hat-trick 10 minutes later tapping home to make it 3-0. A 4th goal coming late in the first half to see Plymouth in a strong position at half-time with Mollie Taylor scoring. Plymouth hammering home their advantage in the 2nd half Knapman not content with a hat-trick, in form in front of goal adding 2 more. 10 minutes left and Rebecca Dandridge volleyed a shot into the corner of the net to make it 7. An 8th goal coming through and own goal to see Plymouth win 8-0. 2nd in the table 3 points behind Crawley with a game in hand.
A similar story for 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies the Welsh side like Plymouth 3 points behind the leaders with a game in hand. Matching Plymouth to with 4 wins from 4 in the Southern Premier Division after losing on the opening day. Were made to work hand for this Sunday’s 3 points however at home taking on Milton Keynes Dons Women. An early goal for the hosts as Jasmine Turner fired Cardiff into a 5th minute lead. Found themselves up against it in the 2nd half especially a Milton Keynes came out strong pressing for an equalising goal, Cardiff defending well to keep a clean sheet to claim the 3 points.
Watford Ladies up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division, building on last Sunday’s win away to Cardiff recording a 6-0 away win against Hounslow Women on Wednesday evening, Helen Ward returning to the side putting Watford into the lead late in the first half, Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Andrea Carid, Katie-O’Leary, Leanne Bell and Annie Meiwald with the goals 2nd half. At home to Yeovil Town Women this Sunday the visitors starting the season well losing their last two keen to get back to winning ways themselves. The visitors taking the lead in the 15th minute breaking fro a Watford corner to see Meesha Dudley-Jones score. Sarah Wiltshire with a fine strike putting Yeovil 2-0 up on the half hour. That the advantage at half-time Watford started the 2nd period well getting it back to 2-1 in the 52nd minute Ward getting on the end of a delivery from Emma Beckett to score. Ward then getting her 2nd to see Watford level the score five minutes later, heading it at the near post following good work from Ryah Vyse down the left. Both sides coming close to finding a winning goal late in the match Megan Chandler finding the top of the Yeovil crossbar in the 87th minute. Wiltshire striking a shot against the crossbar at the opposite end in stoppage time, the points shared.
Meesha Dudley-Jones with the early goal for Yeovil
Under the radar there remains one side in the Southern Premier Division with a 100% winning record. An eye needs to be kept of Oxford United Women who were playing just their 2nd league game of the season this Sunday away to Portsmouth FC Women who themselves were playing just their 3rd league match. A great start for the visitors attacking in the 7th minute Evie Gane close in to score a tap in to put Oxford into the lead. Both sides attacking Oxford get themselves into a 2-0 lead 10 minutes before half-time Kayleigh Hines with a fine 25 yard strike. Portsmouth on the attack 2nd half looking for a goal, Oxford looking to add to their lead both goalkeepers pulling off vital saves to keep it at 2-0. Late in the game Emily Allen took aim from 30 yards out her strike taking a deflection to find it’s way into the back of the net to give the visitors a 30 advantage. Time for more goals a minute of normal time left Mia Adaway firing in a goal for Portsmouth from inside the box. Oxford winning the game 4-1, with Cheryl Williams lobbing the keeper with the last kick of the game.
Gillingham Ladies getting the opportunity to play at the Priestfield Stadium this Sunday as they welcomed Chichester City Ladies young side still in search of their first point of the new season. Nothing separating the sides at half-time it was the visitors who would go on to open the scoring with captain Megan Fox sending the ball into the back of the net to make it 1-0. Chichester coming so close to recording their 1st win of the season the hosts getting it back to 1-1 late in the match to salvage a point. A welcome point nonetheless for Chichester lifting them off the foot of the Southern Premier Division table up to 10th above Keynsham and Hounslow.
FAWNL South East Division One
A full fixture list too in FAWNL South East Division One on Sunday. Billericay Town Ladies leading the way were looking to keep 3 points ahead of the chasing pack as they travelled to St Neots to face Cambridge United WFC. A much changed line-up for the hosts Cambridge gave away a penalty early in the match the spot kick clinically dispatched by Danica Dougal placing the ball wide of the keeper. The visitors going on to hold a 2-0 lead at the break attacking on the right the ball crossed in central to Therese Addison outside the area central good ball control giving her half a yard she reversed the angle to send in a low strike into the bottom corner. Cambridge battling hard in defence preventing their opponents from adding to their tally 2nd half.
Ipswich Town Women are 2nd in the table 3 points behind leaders Billericay with a game in hand away to Stevenage FC Women this Sunday were looking to continue their unbeaten run an opening day draw followed by 3 wins on the bounce. Bringing several of their talented U21s squad into the senior side this season teenager Sophie Peskett was lively from the start running at the Stevenage defence was upended inside the box to see the visitors awarded a penalty inside the opening 5 minutes. Captain Amanda Crump sending a powerful hit home. Crump doubling the lead from another spot kick 15 minutes later following another driving attack from Peskett running into the box from the left riding a challenge to shoot inside the six yard box the keeper saving only to bring Peskett down as she went after the loose ball.
2-0 the advantage at half-time Ipswich creating plenty of chances in the first period began the 2nd period in similar fashion a 3rd goal coming in the 57th minute Crump’s corner headed goalwards going in off a Stevenage defender for an own goal. Peskett getting on the scoresheet to make it 4-0 with 20 minutes left Abbie Lafayette playing her in to turn and fire the ball into the bottom corner. A strong performance from Peskett running clear central five minutes later to strike in her 2nd of the match. Peskett the provider then crossing into the area for Lafayette to head the ball in with 10 minutes left. Peskett going on to complete her hat-trick running clear to put the ball into an empty net. Ipswich winning 7-0.
Matching Ipswich’s record are Leyton Orient WFC, 3rd in the South East Division One table with 3 wins and a draw 3 points behind the leaders with a game in hand. An early goal scored by Sophie Le Marchand sending them on their way to victory on Sunday away to Actonians Ladies. Le Marchand’s 5th goal in 5 matches. Otesha Charles also has 5 from 5 played on target to make it 2-0 to Leyton Orient midway through the 1st half. Further chances created Actonians keeping them out couldn’t find a reply the 2nd half goalless.
A tough start to life in the FAWNL following promotion for both Kent Football United and Cambridge City Ladies. 1 point between the pair so far that to Cambridge City who were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies this Sunday. Not much between the sides at half-time few clear cut chances created the game goalless. Wimbledon getting their noses in front 5 minutes into the 2nd half Sophie Mann on target for her 1st goal of the season. A double switch for Cambridge in the 55th minute, one of those striker Megan Tonks joining the senior side following a successful season in front of goal with the Development side last term. Got Cambridge back on level terms with 20 minutes left scoring her 4th of the season to earn the visitors their 2nd point of the season. Wimbledon remain unbeaten.
Kent Football United without a point on the board travelled up to Norfolk this Sunday to play Norwich City Women who themselves hadn’t won since the opening day. Norwich taking an early lead in the match with Aimee Durrant on target to make it one nil to the hosts. Kent Football United coming back to level the scores with Charley Macneil scoring her first of the season. Norwich going on to dominate the first half Chelsea Garrett restoring the lead. Both she and Durrant through to score another goal each. Megan Todd getting on the scoresheet too to see Norwich comfortable at 5-1 at half-time. Macneil scoring her 2nd of the game for Kent Football United to bring it back to 5-2. Norwich having the final say with Natasha Snelling hitting home to see the game won 6-2 and lift Norwich up into 8th spot.
Norwich’s Chelsea Garrett shooting (photo credit Brian Coombes)
Both keepers called into action in the first half between Enfield Town Ladies at home to AFC Basildon Women on Sunday, Enfield’s Grace Brooks saving a penalty. The sides battling drawing 0-0 at the break. It would be Basildon who would take the lead in the 2nd period Holly Turner with the goal. Enfield fighting back to draw level with less than 10 minutes left Tia Bailey scoring her first of the season to ensure a share of the points and keep 4th placed Enfield unbeaten at the start of the season.
Crawley Wasps Ladies had opened up a 6 point lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division making a perfect start following promotion from South East Division One last season winning 4 out of 4. Just 2 sides remaining without a loss Oxford United Women the other albeit they have played just the one game so far this season and once more weren’t in league action this Sunday.
Crawley were at home this Sunday taking on Watford Ladies the sides not giving much away it was a goalless first 45 minutes. The dead lock finally broken on the hour as Ryah Vyse put captain Adekite Fatuga-Dada through to send the ball home to make it 1-0. The visitors going on to double their lead 7 minutes later from a set-piece Annie Meirwald getting her head on the ball inside the box to score her 1st goal for the club. The game entering the final 15 minutes Crawley winning a set-piece of their own captain Naomi Cole playing the ball into the box Ellie Russell there to bundle it in to make it 2-1. Watford introducing Katie O’Leary to the action on 77 minutes the attacker on target to score a 3rd goal for Watford with 8 minutes left on the clock to see them win the game 3-1 and end Crawley’s winning start to the season.
That result sees the chasing pack close the gap to the early leaders. A big South West derby game saw 3rd placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies hosting 2nd placed Yeovil Town Women. Both on 6 points it was a tight first half between the sides with few chances created. Plymouth with the narrow advantage taking the lead through a Rebecca Dandridge goal on 34 minutes. Plymouth enjoying a great start to the 2nd period, Dandridge scoring her 2nd of the game 4 minutes after the restart to make it 2-0. The hosts scoring a 3rd goal with Jessie Jones netting on 57 minutes. The result put beyond doubt midway through the 2nd half with Natasha Knapman scoring two quickfire goal to put Plymouth 5-0 up. A late consolation for Yeovil coming with 3 minutes left captain Annie Heatherson with the goal. Plymouth moving into 2nd winning 5-1, other results seeing Yeovil drop to 5th.
A tough start to the season for Chichester City Ladies young squad as they look to rebuild following a number of departure over the summer. Losing their opening 4 games were hosting Cardiff City Ladies who after losing on the opening day were looking to make it 3 wins on the bounce in the league. The visitors creating plenty of chances in the first half, they finally got a goal late in the half an excellent solo effort from Grace Horrell on 41 minutes to make t 1-0. Again frustrated by Chichester in the 2nd half Cardiff eventually doubling their lead with 18 minutes left on the clock a 1st Cardiff goal for 16-year-old Carrie Jones. Cardiff in 3rd also on 9 points winning 2-0.
A fantastic crowd of 1002 turned out to the Stadium MK to watch Milton Keynes Dons Women play at home for the first time this season. Were taking on bottom side Hounslow Women who like Chichester had lost their opening 3 games of the season. Hounslow battling hard to frustrate Milton Keynes Dons the hosts managing to break the stale mate late in the first half attacking down the right the cross swung into the area Kim Farrow with the bullet header to score in the 42nd minute. Hounslow working hard to find a way back into the game Sydney Hinchcliffe striking from the edge of the box sending the ball past the keeper to equalise and see Hounslow win their first point of the season taking them off the bottom of the table.
FAWNL Cup
A handful of ties this Sunday taking place in the Preliminary Round’s of both the FAWNL Cup and Plate competitions. One of those in the Cup saw Portsmouth FC Women drawn at home to play Gillingham Ladies. The sides contesting a goalless 1st half the opening goal coming early in the first half, Laura Ingram running forwards to pressure the goalkeeper the ball striking the attacking rebounding back into the goal to give Ingram her 1st Portsmouth goal. Gillingham awarded a penalty on the hour. Ellie manning composed from the spot to equalise. The visitors then getting themselves into a 2-1 lead. 15 minutes left Portsmouth attacking Jade Widdows on the left letting loose a strike from distance a fantastic strike to make it 2-2. The game ending all square Portsmouth seeing a 2nd successive cup match going to extra-time. Once again victorious however with Charmaine True scoring the winning goal. A corner floated into the box in the 2nd period of extra play a scramble ensuing True with the telling touch to see the ball over the line.
FAWNL South East Division One
FAWNL South East Division One leaders Billericay Town Ladies travelled up to Norfolk from Essex to play Norwich City Women at the weekend. Norwich’s Plantation Park unavailable the game played at Fakenham Town FC’s, Clipbush Park ground. The visitors taking the lead from a set-piece a free-kick awarded on the edge of the box Zoe Rushen lifting her shot up past the wall and keeper into the goal beyond to make it 1-0. The visitors going 2-0 up from a corner kick the ball fired into the area from the left knocked down Rushen unmarked six yards out able to turn and strike in her 2nd of the game. Billericay leading 3-0 at half-time their 3rd goal also from a corner. Captain Lindsey Morgan up central to power the header in. Billericay on top into the 2nd half the lead further extended with Therese Addison picking up the ball at the top of the area her initial effort blocked the attacker retaining possession battling her way into the area before firing in her 1st goal for the club. Addison quickly bringing up her 2nd goal. Rushen stealing the ball from the defence on the right combining with Rodney before putting the cross in central for Addison to score. Billericay staying 3 points in front at the top of the table wining 5-0.
Therese Addison scoring her 1st goals for Billericay Town Ladies at the weekend (photo credit Nicky Hayes).
A host off sides in the chasing pack behind, all still unbeaten, Leyton Orient WFC climbing into 2nd winning away from home on Sunday beating Stevenage FC Women. Otesha Charles scoring on the half hour to see the visitors 1-0 up at half-time. Two quick goals midway through the first half ensuring the 3 points with Connie Montiel-McCann scoring to make it 2-0 her goal quickly followed by a 2nd of the match for Charles. Stevenage pulling it back to 3-1 with captain Amy Makewell scoring the hosts losing their last 3.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies are up amongst those chasing leaders Billericay in 5th spot maintaining their unbeaten start to the season, coming back for a 2-0 deficit at half-time to earn a point away to AFC Basildon Ladies on Sunday despite missing a penalty. Basildon taking the lead in the 20th minute with Holly Turner striking from outside the box. Kelly Wealthall doubling the Essex sides lead just before the break. Wimbledon with a chance to pull a goal back early in the 2nd period as they won a penalty in the 49th minute. The spot kick however missed. Closing in on the hour Wimbledon did pull it back to 2-1 with Helen Ogle on target. Elizabeth Berkerley on in the 2nd half for Wimbledon scoring her first goal for the club with 18 left to earn the visitors a point.
Actonians Ladies were hosting Cambridge United WFC in the league on Sunday. The visitors taking an early lead with captain Kelley Blanchflower striking to make it 1-0. That the score at half-time Actonians were back on level terms early in the 2nd half due to an unfortunate own goal. Actonians then hitting their opponents with two quick goals inside the closing 20 minutes to win the 3 points. Caroline Bisson scoring to make it 2-1 with her 4th since joining the club with last season’s top scorer Alessandra Barreca hitting her 3rd of the new season a few minutes later to see the game won 3-1.
Crawley Wasps Ladies beginning life in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division as they did the last season winning the FAWNL South East Division One title with ease. 4 wins out of 4 at the start of the campaign to open up a 6 point lead at the top. A 7-1 midweek win away to Chichester City Ladies seeing them go top. Rebecca Carter and Charlotte Owen both scoring a brace Crawley were away again this Sunday taking on 2nd placed Yeovil Town Women. 4 leagues between the sides this time last season, Yeovil making a strong start dropping down to the 3rd tier 3 wins from 3 in league and cup, promised a close game. B
Both sides coming close to the opening goal, Yeovil clearing off the line from a Crawley corner. Frankie Gibbs saving for Crawley the visitors striking in the final minute of the 1st half to take a lead into the dressing room with Rebecca Carter on target for her 3rd goal of the season. 1-0 to the good Yeovil starting the 2nd half well coming back to level the scores on 53 minute Annie Heatherson finding Sarah Wiltshire to curl a shot past Gibbs into the back of the net, Wiltshire’s 8th goal of the season already. Crawley are equipped to compete at this level and came back to retake the lead attacking midway through the 2nd half captain Naomi Cole brought down outside the box in front of the D, a threat from a set-piece up to take it herself arrowing a shot hard to nestle inside the goal, the winning goal for Crawley to take a 6 point lead.
Whilst Crawley open up the gap at the top Sunday’s results saw others close the gap to 2nd. Plymouth Argyle Ladies joining Yeovil on 6 points moving into 3rd position with a strong performance at home on Sunday. Opening the season with a loss away to Crawley, the South West side bounced back well to win 2-0 away to Gillingham Ladies last weekend. Back on home soil this weekend were taking on newly promoted Keynsham Town Ladies who had lost their opening two fixtures 2-1 at home to Milton Keynes and on Thursday a narrow 1-0 loss away to Cardiff City.
Plymouth starting well put in a good performance taking the lead midway through the first half, Jessie Jones brought down inside the box, captain Katie Middleton scoring from the spot. Amber Pollock then setting up two quickfire goals from Kayley Lane and Natasha Knapman with 10 minutes left in the first half saw Plymouth hold a 3 goal advantage at half-time. Knapman making it 4-0 with the game approaching the hour. Keynsham pulling one back as Fabiana Alborghetti netted from distance. The hosts going on to score late in the match Jessie Jones getting on the scoresheet before her shot in the 87th minute with put in on the rebound by Helen Bleazard. Plymouth winning 6-1.
Plymouth now a host of sides on 6 points with 2nd to 6th all there with 2 wins each, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies making a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two fixtures were away to Gillingham Ladies this Sunday. A win and a loss for Gillingham to start the season like Milton Keynes have brought in several new faces over the summer. A solitary goal separating the sides at half-time, Gillingham 1-0 up after 14 minutes awarded penalty that they themselves admitted as harsh for handball inside the box Jade Keogh stepping up to score. The hosts making the better start to the 2nd half doubling their lead 2 minutes after the restart Georgia Pearch sending in a low shot off the post and in to make it 2-0. Gillingham going on to take control of the game midway through the 2nd half scoring a 3rd with Grace Harrison played through one on one with the keeper, 5 minutes later Harrison scoring again chesting in an Ellie Jeffkins free-kick. Milton Keynes rallying finishing strong, chances created into the last 5 minutes new signing Jessica Driscoll scoring from a free-kick, a 2nd added in the 88th minute with another new recruit Dominika Netschova making it 4-2, not enough as they lose their first league game dropping to 4th, Gillingham joining the top half sides on 6 points.
Cardiff City Ladies the other side in amongst the top half pack on 6 points recovering from an opening day defeat to Gillingham Ladies to win their next two. Close games all a 1-0 loss to Gillingham, Cardiff winning at home on Thursday evening leaving it late with Kylie Nolan scoring in the 75th minute to seal a 1-0 win against Keynsham Town Ladies. A first league win under their belts the Welsh side making the trip to the north of the capital to face Watford Ladies this Sunday. Jasmine Turner giving Cardiff the lead on 11 minutes lobbing the keeper from 30 yards to make it 1-0. A narrow lead at half-time Cardiff found the back of the net for a 2nd goal 10 minutes into the 2nd half Chloe Lloyd volleying in from outside the box. Watford pushing the visitors hard looking for a reply the Cardiff defence holding firm as they secured the 3 points.
No league game for Portsmouth FC Women since the opening day of the season losing 2-0 at home to Watford, a 2-0 win 7 days later against the same opponents in the FAWNL Cup Determining Round. Playing again this Sunday were at home once again taking on bottom Hounslow Women who themselves were without a point losing their opening two fixtures. Tamsin De Bunsen capitalising on a defensive mix-up to put Portsmouth into the lead inside the opening minute. Portsmouth controlling the early stages without creating a clear cut opportunity. The post struck in the 35th minute, Portsmouth doubling the advantage a minute later with Rebecca Bath striking from distance. A 2-0 lead at half-time Portsmouth were dominant De Bunsen adding a 3rd and her 2nd of the game taking the ball around the keeper to make it 3-0 on 52 minutes. Jade Bradley blasting in a screamer from 30 yards out making it 4-0 on the hour. Portsmouth on top taking control to score 4 more Bath with her 2nd from the penalty spot. Charmaine True brought down for the penalty going on to score a brace, time for an 8th goal 3 minutes from time with substitute Eilidh Currie scoring from inside the box.
Oxford United Women finally got their league season started this Sunday postponed games seeing them miss out on the opening day and last weekend they were in league action at last at home to Chichester City Ladies this Sunday. The visitors with a difficult start to the season losing their opening 3 league matches. Oxford starting the game well opening the scoring in the 11th minute, Daisy McLachlan joining from Portsmouth cutting in from the left to shoot and find the top corner. A strong spell for the hosts Georgia Timms making it 2-0 in the 18th minute getting on the end of a cross. McLachlan adding her 2nd of the game 2 minutes later in off the post to see Oxford into a 3-0 lead. Emily Allen heading in a goal late in the first half to see Oxford lead 4-0. The hosts continued pressing for further goals 2nd half Lauren Haynes coming closest striking the crossbar. Oxford starting with a win.
FAWNL South East Division One
Three wins from three to start the new season, Essex side Billericay Town Ladies have started their 2nd season as they did last season following promotion to the FAWNL for the first time. Looking strong again this season in the early stages. Karissa Rodney scoring a hat-trick in their midweek 4-0 win over local rivals AFC Basildon Women. Esme Lancaster also on target. Newly promoted with Crawley Wasps Ladies last season the pair ran away with it at the top Billericay eventually losing ground in the title race finished 2nd some 13 points ahead of the chasing pack. Competitive below the early challengers are starting to emerge.
Enfield Town Ladies finishing 3rd last season amongst them bolstering their squad over the summer travelled to Billericay this Sunday. Winning 5-1 away to Stevenage Women in midweek also had a player o target for a hat-trick, Beth Lumsden one of their new signings with Nuala McKevitt and Katherine Long also scoring. Two wins and a draw from their opening three fixtures Enfield found themselves trailing to an early goal as Karissa Rodney was on target for her 5th goal of the season. Enfield getting back on level terms with 10 minutes left in the 1st half winning a penalty Beth Lumsden stepping up to score to see the sides level at half-time. Both sides coming close in the 2nd half Grace Brooks saving in goal for Enfield the visitors with a goal ruled out for offside. A point a piece at the final whistle.
Karissa Rodney scoring to put Billericay Town Ladies into the lead (photo credit Nicky Hayes)
Two points dropped for Billericay sees the chasing pack close up Enfield stay 3rd, in between the pair joining Billericay on 10 points are Ipswich Town Women. Opening their season with a draw Ipswich have since won 3 on the bounce although they left it late to win the 3 points this Sunday at home to Actonians Ladies. Ipswich coming into the game off the back of a midweek East Anglian derby win at home to Norwich City Women the game watched by a huge crowd of 761 Ipswich won 4-1. Actonians winning too in midweek playing their rearranged FAWNL Cup Determining Round game with AFC Wimbledon Ladies winning 2-0.
Ipswich getting off to a good start at The Goldstar Ground the hosts leading 1-0 inside the opening 10 minutes with Sophie Peskett scoring the goal. Actonians getting through on goal five minutes later denied by Leonie Jackson, the U21s keeper making her 1st senior start. Half-chances after that for both sides Ipswich holding the narrow advantage at half-time. Natasha Thomas firing Ipswich into a 2-0 lead midway through the 2nd half struck the crossbar soon after. Actonians not out of it coming back to make it 2-1 with 12 minutes left Jennifer Laidlaw getting the goal. A dramatic finish to the game Peskett hitting the bar the game into the final 10 minutes. Two minutes left and Actonians were level Caroline Bisson sending the ball home to make it 2-2. A blow for Ipswich they went straight up the other end and a diagonal pass into the area form Zoe Barratt picked out the run of captain Amanda Crump who took it in her stride to slot under the keeper to win the game 3-2.
5 sides remain unbeaten in FAWNL South East Division One and having played a game less than the top two both Leyton Orient WFC and AFC Wimbledon 4th and 5th respectfully are 3 points behind the leading pair. Leyton Orient WFC winning 5-1 at home to Cambridge City Ladies on the opening day were held 1-1 away to Enfield last time weekend. Back at home this weekend were hosting Norfolk side Norwich City Women. The game played at the Breyer Group Stadium the hosts took the lead inside the opening quarter hour Sophie Le Marchand played through to fire home. Leading 1-0 at half-time Leyton Orient created more openings eventually finding a 2nd goal midway through the 2nd half Hayley Barton’s corner headed in by Le Marchand. Into the last 10 minutes and Leyton Orient pressed home their advantage Le Marchand turning provider for Barton to score. Le Marchand smashing in a shot to complete her hat-trick in the 85th minute. 5-0 in the final minute another corner for the hosts put straight in by taker Barton.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting the season with a draw away to Ipswich backed it up with a 2-0 win over Cambridge United WFC. Cup action in midweek were back at home this Sunday taking on Stevenage FC Women. The visitors hitting the woodwork twice early on whilst Te’a Oldroyd keeping goal pulled off some great saves to deny the hosts. Wimbledon taking the lead late in the 1st half getting a goal through captain Katie Stanley to put them 1-0 on 38 minutes. Both sides starting the 2nd half brightly Wimbledon getting their 2nd with 55 minutes played good work from Rosie Russell before Stanley on target with her 2nd of the match. An hour gone and Wimbledon extended their lead to 3 Helen Ogle with a screamer striking the crossbar soon after. Stevenage kept going getting it back to 3-1 with 10 minutes left Louise Godden scoring. Wimbledon straight back with a goal by Sophie Manzi making it 4-1. Stevenage’s tun to get down the other end and score a minute later Amy Makewell making it 4-2 the late fightback not enough Wimbledon with the 3 points.
AFC Wimbledon Ladies captain, Katie Stanley with 2 goals (photo credit Chris Bushe)
AFC Basildon Women have added several new faces to their squad as they begin life back in FAWNL South East Division One. One win so far from their opening 3 league games were beaten 4-0 in midweek by local rivals Billericay Town Ladies. Travelled to Cambridgeshire this Sunday to take on newly promoted Cambridge City Ladies who claimed their 1st league point since promotion in midweek following a 2-2 with their local rivals Cambridge United WFC. Goals from Holly Turner with her 1st of the season and Kelly Wealthall seeing the Essex side leading 2-0 at the break they doubled the tally in the 2nd half winning the game 4-0 with Nicole Learner and Jodie Osborne on the scoresheet with their 1st goals. Their 2nd win of the season putting them into the top half of the table.
Cambridge United WFC getting off the mark with their 1st point of the season away to their Cambridge rivals were back at The Premier Plus Stadium in St Neots this weekend looking for their 1st win of the campaign playing newly promoted Kent Football United the only side without a point now in South East Division One. Captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt getting Cambridge off to a great start scoring at the near post from a corner kick inside the opening 5 minutes. Mollie Coupar nipping in to win steal the ball off the keeper rounding her to put the ball into an empty net making it 2-0 to Cambridge on the half-hour. 2-0 up at half-time a 3rd goal coming in midway through the 2nd half Charlotte Crisp playing the ball through for striker Kelley Blanchflower to score. Kent pulling it back to 3-1 with 20 minutes left Megan Burrows with the goal. Cambridge United WFC with their 1st win of the season up to 7th.
Derby day and the first midweek match of the season for Women’s Football East making the trip to Ely City FC this Wednesday evening to watch Cambridge City Ladies take on Cambridge United WFC for the first time in the FAWNL.
Cambridge City Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division last season part of a league and cup double to earn promotion to FAWNL South East Division One. The two sides once one before going their separate ways have met several times as Cambridge City rose back up the women’s football pyramid now joining United in the FAWNL. A strong youth set-up within the club their Development side winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season joins the ERWFL Division One South, whilst the club is to boast a 3rd women’s side playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership.
Joining the FAWNL, Cambridge City Ladies have moved to a new home, Ely City FC whilst they await completion of their new ground at Sawston. A ground their opponents know well having played their as Cambridge Women before linking up with Cambridge United FC. Good facilities a new cinema and restaurant park build next to the spots stadiums situated just off the A10. Have signed goalkeeper Dominika Szary from Newmarket Town Women with Karly Tolentino and Beatrice Fitzsimons also joining. Sofia Castiglione back too after impressing in a handful of game for City before injury saw her out for a long period. Two losses from their opening two matches away to Leyton Orient and at home to Billericay Town Ladies see them without a point. Better in the FAWNL Cup where they won through to the competition proper beating Southern Premier Division side Chichester City Ladies.
A new home too this season for Cambridge United WFC playing at St Neots Town FC, a new base for games and training for both their senior and Development side. Have lost a few players to other clubs over the close season a small squad with a determined attitude. A new beginning they too find themselves without a point on the board a narrow lose conceding in the final minutes of both their opening league and cup encounters. 2 errors costing them away to AFC Wimbledon at the weekend. A local derby to look forwards to is great for women’s football in Cambridge to see two sides playing as high as the 4th tier. Always competitive games against the pair.
The pitch looking well prepared as the lights start to come on, a good atmosphere building a good sized crowd taking shape. A hint of rain in the air day clouds around, a rainbow over the ground prior to kick-off. A breeze cooling things down. The bar and kitchen open hot and cold drinks aswell as pies on offer.
Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Ceri Flye, Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Beatrice Fitzsimons, Karly Tolentino & Megan Tonks. Subs – Tee Mhunduru, Shannon Shaw, Robyn Phillips, Laura Mills, & Georgia Day.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Emma Jenkins, Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Kelley Blanchflower & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Verity Crook, Chloe Armstrong, Albany Hodgson & Chloe Smith.
As per usual with these affairs where we have two clubs similarly named they become City and United from now on. It’s City to get the derby match underway, wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves black shorts and socks. City playing the ball back to there defence United close down quickly to put pressure on the ball, rewarded as Amber Cantwell gets hold of possession on halfway and drives through the middle with the ball reaching the area before Ceri Flye partnering captain Becca Fay in defence puts in the challenge the ball ending up safely gathered by Dominika Szary.
GOAL! An early break through from United the pressing game continuing Cantwell again winning it central sending the pass on for striker Kelley Blanchflower she sees fellow attacker Mollie Coupar breaking away into the left channel rolls the ball into her path Coupar taking it on into the box left of goal closing in on the six yard box smashes a shot in under the keeper at the near post 0-1.
Mollie Coupar pressing Amy Reed for possession of the ball
United have started well playing a high tempo, up for the game Blanchflower spreading play out wide right for Amy Howlett making her first appearance for United this season pushes on with the ball into the corner, tackled by full back Lauren Tomlinson to win the ball back for City. The hosts making progress wide left Karly Tolentino looking to create a shot from distance falling wide of the mark.
United bring the ball out Blanchflower up ended wide left inside the City half winning a free-kick. Cantwell over the ball, striking the two player wall deflected left Cantwell able to run onto it to fling a cross into the area, City struggling to clear as United pressure well. Flye busy at the heart of the defence doing well against Blanchflower as the United striker battles her way into the area, back with Szary looks to set up a counter, Charlotte Crisp breaking it up for United.
Kelley Blanchflower with Cambridge City ladies captain Becca Fay
Faith Hewitt playing the ball on up the left for United with Blanchflower providing the passing option, Flye going with her tackling to play the ball out for a throw. Crisp coming over to provide support on that side as Blanchflower controls from the throw the ball passed across the top of the City area, Cantwell there looking to get into a shooting position taking the ball wide pressed by Fay the shot miscued. United looking lively Carrie Bennett with the ball on for Hewitt left the ball high across the face of goal, picked up by Coupar far side another ball in across the face of goal, Szary able to lay claim to the 3rd attempt.
City slow to settle United having given them little time on the ball, Sofia Castiglione on the ball in midfield looks t take players on doing well rides two tackles making ground before releasing Charlotte Gillies on the right, the winger’s ball into the area too close to the keeper at the near post Savannah Smith handling comfortably. City starting to find a foothold in the game Amy Reed winning it at the back an attack launched the ball forwards Megan Tonks with the lay off right into Beatrice Fitzsimons making a central run, her stab forwards almost finding it’s way through into the area for Tolentino cut out by the United defence.
The game setting down somewhat, both sides wasting passes as they try to maintain a high tempo move the ball quickly no one wanting to keep possession slow things down, lively certainly has a derby feel about it.
GOAL! 22 minutes played and City get themselves back on level terms, a fantastic goal from Tonks, the City striker having a fantastic season with the Development side scoring 32 goals from 18 appearances on their way to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season. Out wide left for City holding onto the ball strong gets inside her marker towards the top corner of the area striking the ball superbly the flight taking it across goal over the keeper into the back of the net beyond 1-1.
Megan Tonks up to win the header for Cambridge City Ladies
United get forwards a free-kick awarded on the left Cantwell to play the ball in, headed clear inside the box central Crisp moving to intercept the loose ball latching onto the shot hit hard but wide of the goal from 25 yards out. Gillies looks to take on Bennett as she attacks right the United full back getting back at her to win the ball back before the cross can be made. United are away on the right Howlett with Coupar ahead of her, Fay drawn out of the middle to assist Tomlinson in the corner Coupar does well to get the ball back up the line to Howlett she passes central Crisp not afraid to have a crack from distance meeting it once again 30 yards the strike brushes the roof of the net on its way over.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp
Passes continue to go astray starting to get a little scrappy, niggly challenges coming it, Cantwell on the end of a couple of the more robust ones. A driving shot from Castiglione from 30 yards out following good work from Tolentino on the left fall wide of goal. Tolentino showing great close ball control on the left high up the pitch twisting left then right looking to come inside before shifting and getting the ball in behind to cross flashed in Tonks gets something on it near post the ball brushing the chest of a defender for a moment looks like it could be an unfortunate own goal as it goes on across goal, Smith reacting well getting down to stop it.
Cambridge City Ladies, Karly Tolentino
Castiglione bringing the ball on once more plays a good diagonal ball on for Gillies bursting on right side of the area, Bennett putting in the tackle playing the ball behind for a corner. The ball in towards the top of the area from the right cleared by Cantwell. Look to break the ball on down the right a strong challenge from Tomlinson seeing United awarded a free-kick in the corner. A good delivery in towards the near post Szary doing well for City up to make a confident claim.
The tackles showing a bit more bite late in the first half Emma Jenkins partnering captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt in central defence this evening bringing the ball out from the ball brought down unceremoniously. Fitzsimons getting a warning from referee Chris Abbott. Moments later Cantwell is floored by Tomlinson as the United midfielder looks to break from a City free-kick, the full back shown the first yellow card of the game. Both benches not happy with decisions the game getting feisty late in the half a late throw on the left high for United played inside across the top of the area Blanchflower looking to see it across her body 20 yards out strikes it on the half volley, the ball already spinning the shot swerving away from goal behind the last action of the first half.
Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC
A good first half in the Cambridge derby, United making a fast start bright snapping into challenges and pressing City all over the pitch looking sharp taking an early lead. City taking a little time to settle, United’s intent slowing City able to get back into it get forwards Tonks with a superb strike to level the scores. Scrappy at times with passes rushed going astray, the half ending on and even note could go either way 2nd half.
United to get the 2nd half underway, neither side making a change. The visitors going long to the left with Coupar on the move, strong holding onto the ball getting into a shooting position fires over the top from 25 yards out.
GOAL! City get forwards to take the lead early in the 2nd, bodies forwards as they attack possession on the left Tolentino playing the ball into the middle gathered by Fitzsimons who bursts on towards the area allowed to go on, goes to shoot a miscue the ball turns into a brilliant assist angled wide and on into the path of Tonks right of goal, the striker turning and sending a low ball past Smith before she can adjust 2-1.
GOAL! All action at the start of the 2nd half as United get up the other end and draw level again almost straight away. Attacking right Howlett’s pass on for Coupar brings United a throw deep in City territory, put on into Blanchflower she turns and heads into the area close to the byline fires a ball in towards goal Szary down to it, a touch but escapes her grasp with Coupar on top of her bundling it over the line to score her 2nd of the match 2-2.
The game has the early intensity back is a derby game, both sides feeling the game is there to win. United winning a corner right side the ball in towards the top of the area Burt running in to met it near post lifting her shot over. Both keepers called into action running out of there areas to clear first Szary then her kick forwards dealt with by Smith. Passes rushed the tempo remains high no one settling on the ball. City make the first change of the game Laura Mills coming on for Gillies going out to the right.
Cambridge City Ladies, Lauren Tomlinson
The substitution injecting some urgency into City’s attacking play the ball spread wide to Mills has Tonks out wide with her the ball crossed into the United box cleared, Reed getting forwards onto the loose ball shoots from distance the ball stopped in the six yard by her opposing right back Davies, a good first touch to bring the ball safely under control.
Cantwell with a tame effort that rolls safely through to Szary who sets up Mills on the counter pace taking it on the diagonal ball fired into the area read by Smith coming out to collect. city make a 2nd substitution 2 goals for Tonks her work done for the night she is replaced in attack by Shannon Shaw. The breeze starting to pick up. Cantwell will feel the aftermath of this game as she is bundled to the ground yet again, not deterred however.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell
United make their first change of the match in attack Blanchflower coming off to be replaced by Chloe Smith. Bodily plays a pass long on for Mills getting on down the right keeping wide well her cross into the box dangerous chested down towards goal by a defender for a moment looks like it might be an own goal gasps from the crowd, by Smith down quickly has it save pulled into her body.Mills adding impetus to the City attack the game wide open entering the final 15 minutes could go either way still.
United getting some momentum themselves Coupar with Hewitt, Howlett found on the right the ball in towards the top of the area fired in near post cut out by the City defence. Tomlinson strong on the ball as she battles to bring it forwards. Play from one end to the other Mills crossing from the right United heading the ball clear launching a counter attack, Crisp on for Smith plays the ball to Howlett right takes it inside into the box City conceding the corner.
Into the last 3 minutes of the match the ball in from the right cleared long, Davies picking it up for United lifts a high ball back into the area difficult for Szary to judge back on her line dropping late catches by spills for another corner. City dealing confidently Fay determined on the ball carrying it out from the back over halfway but cleared by United City with a throw left Tomlinson’s bionic arms sending it long into towards the top of the area, United winning the header attempt to counter Bodily breaking it up.
City mounting one last attack and come very close to claiming the 3 points late on Fitzsimons seeing the ball into her feet outside the United area right off a throw turns and unleashes a shot Smith diving to her left thankful to see the ball run narrowly wide of the post, City with a free-kick on halfway Castiglione to play it up into the United area, Burt dealing with it the final whistle blows.
Full time Cambridge City Ladies 2-2 Cambridge United WFC
Honours even in the first Cambridge derby of the season, on the whole a fair result the points shared and both getting off the mark at last will be a relief. City making a slow start coming back to level after conceding in the opening minutes. Taking the lead early in the 2nd period only to concede straight away. A good watch the crowd entertained, often scrappy niggly at times the temp good what you’d expect from a derby match. Both sides will feel they could have won it and could well have gone either way.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Contenders from both sides, Ceri Flye doing a some great defensive work for City in the heart of defence. Sofia Castiglione too in midfield. Megan Tonks in attack scoring a great first goal levelling the scores then putting them into the lead early 2nd half. Mollie Coupar giving United the early advantage. Kelley Blanchflower with some great runs linking up the midfield and attack. Amber Cantwell edging it for me overall getting about the pitch great first touches and often a the heart of the action.
Said I wouldn’t get up at 4am and write this but I can’t sleep with a game still rattling around the brain. An entertaining game if scrappy at times the two sides enjoying a good rivalry that will only grow and in doing so increase the interest for the women’s game in the county. Updated with pictures for last evenings game courtesy of Gary Reed. Grateful to be able to use them Gary is a tremendous supporter of the women’s game and it’s a pleasure to feature his pictures.
