Coventry United Ladies extend their unbeaten league run this season to 14 matches with a big home result on Sunday to maintain their 4 point lead at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Playing in 3G were taking on Gillingham Ladies who have been stripped of their place in the FAWNL Plate Final after fielding an ineligible player in the semi-finals, this sees semi-final opponents West Bromich Albion Women advance to the final the 2nd season on a row this has occurred with Flyde Ladies suffering a similar fate last season.
Gillingham falling behind to an early goal as Lois Jefferies headed the ball in from a corner kick to give Coventry a 3rd minute lead. Amber Hughes sliding in at the far post to finish a cross doubling the lead midway through the first half. Jefferies making it 3-0 with a shot across the keeper, a 4th goal quickly followed with Amy Wathan striking moments later. Coventry leading 4-0 at the break. Hughes with her 2nd of the game extending Coventry’s lead just seconds into the 2nd half. A powerful strike from distance from Marie Gauntlett bringing up a 6th goal. Beth Merrick coming on in the 2nd half for Hughes making an immediate impact cutting inside to shoot from range and score. Wathan with a bullet header from another corner scoring Coventry’s 8th from close range. Gauntlett off a free-kick out wide scoring another spectacular goal from distance sealing a 9-0 victory for Coventry.
Also a big win too for 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies as they bring an end to a run of 3 straight defeats in the lead. Travelled to Essex on Sunday to play bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The visitors taking the lead midway through the first half Jess Lewry brought down inside the box stepping up to take and score the resulting penalty. A 2nd goal quickly coming Kim Stenning volleying in at the far post from a Nadine Bazan cross to open her Chichester account. Molly Clark sending in a 3rd goal 3 minutes later, a 4th goal coming in first half injury time with Clark getting her 2nd beating the keeper to score.
Chichester on the front foot right from the off in the 2nd half creating chances, 63 minutes on the clock an Clark gets her hat-trick. Sara Tubby introduced to the action making an instant impact putting the ball over the keeper to make it 6-0. Into the final 5 minutes Chichester pushing for more goals Clark finding the back of the net for her 4th of the afternoon. Tubby scoring her 2nd of the game in stoppage time to secure an 8-0 win for Chichester.
Cardiff City came back from a goal down to secure the win at home with a late goal on Sunday in a hard fought contest with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to maintain the pressure on 2nd placed Chichester City Ladies. The visitors scoring from a curled effort in the 13th minute, Milton Keynes Dons held the advantage for much of the game closing in on the final 20 minutes the Welsh side came back to level with Chloe Lloyd scoring from a 25 yarder to make it 1-1. The winner coming with 6 minutes left to play Cardiff hitting Milton Keynes on the break Kylie Nolan round the keeper pulling it back for Grace Horrell to chip over the defence from 18 yards out and score to win it 2-1.
A fantastic crowd of 846 in attendance at Home Park on Sunday as Plymouth Argyle Ladies took centre stage at the League One sides ground. Were hosting Portsmouth FC Women. The visitors taking the lead on 19 minutes from a short corner taker Katie James getting the ball back from Rachel Panting coming up the line and scoring with a superb strike from wide to make it 1-0 2 in 2 from James. Plymouth levelling the scores minutes later winning a corner up the other end the ball into the six yard box Kayley Lane turning six yards out and scoring to make it 1-1. Jade Widdows scoring her first Portsmouth goal last weekend restoring the visitors lead with 10 minutes left to play in the first half scoring from the angle outside the box to make it 2-1. Natasha Knapman introduced to the action for Plymouth in the 67th minute making an impact as she levelled the scores for the 2nd time in the match minutes later getting onto the end of a Lane cross to see Plymouth earn a share of the points.
Queens Park Rangers Women came back from 2 goals down at home on Sunday to earn themselves a point against Loughborough Foxes Women. Goalless heading into the final minute of the first half Tiana Hicks bringing the ball on getting a shot away from the top of the area finding the bottom corner to put Loughborough into the lead her first goal of the season. An hour played Loughborough bring on Eva Rogers another substitute making an immediate impact on hand to bury a shot from inside the box after Shauna Chambers blast was blocked the rebound falling kindly. QPR getting a goal back almost straight away Courtney Ward-Chambers with a strike from distance over the keeper to make it 2-1. Ward-Chambers coming close to making it 2-2 hitting the post in the 71st minute. Jo Wilson beating the offside trap putting the ball over the line to level the scores with 12 minutes left to play. 7 points from 3 matches Loughborough covering over 700 miles in that time move back up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table.
Their U23s side winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup earlier in the day, Watford Ladies 1st team were at home to Oxford United Women in the afternoon. The visiting side taking an early lead with Emily Allen scoring from a corner in the 16th minute. The lead doubled late in the first half from another corner with new signing Gemma Sims scoring her 1st league goal in the 43rd minute. 2-0 up at half-time Watford getting it back to 2-1 early on from a corner routine Katherine Huggins taking getting it back to put in from wide her ball in creeping in at the near post. Oxford soon restoring their 2 goal cushion Lauren Haynes with a great finish from 20 yards out to make it 3-1. A left wing cross turned into thier own net by Watford saw Oxford go 4-1 with 12 minutes left to play Danielle Scanlon on in the last 10 minutes scoring from a free-kick wide on the left to reduce the deficit to 4-2, Oxford in 4th winning the 3 points, 5 points off 2nd placed Chichester with 2 games in hand.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games played in FAWNL South East Division One on Sunday. League leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies dropping points for the 1st time since promotion to the league last weekend held to a 0-0 draw with Cambridge United WFC. Hardly a blip as they came back strong in midweek with a 4-0 away win against 3rd placed Actonians Ladies. This Sunday Crawley were at at home taking on Norfolk side Norwich City Ladies. Lauren Graves making her first appearance in goal for Crawley’s first team. The hosts taking an early lead Megan Stow firing them into the lead inside 10 minutes. Rachel Palmer’s corner floated in to the far post bringing up Crawley’s 2nd in the 22nd minute. Kemina Webber rounding the keeper on the half hour to make it 3-0, finishes from Naomi Cole and Darcey James late in the first half seeing Crawley into a 5-0 lead. Jenny Drury scoring a 6th goal for Crawley early in the 2nd half Stow going on to claim a hat-trick securing an 8-0 win to see Crawley take a 10 point lead at the top of the table.
A good week for Cambridge United WFC building on a confidence boosting point earned against Crawley at home last Sunday beat Norwich City Ladies 1-0 to push into contention in mid-table in midweek. At home again this Sunday were taking on Actonians Ladies. Cambridge taking the lead through captain Kelley Blanchflower the striker running on to beat the keeper to the ball take it wide and send the ball over the line. Cambridge hitting Actonians on the counter to score a 2nd Blanchflower left inside for Becky Shephard inside the area digging the ball out from her feet to make it 2-0. Alessandra Barreca scoring from a free-kick in the 37th minute pulling a goal back for Actonians. A break in play early in the 2nd half as a torrential hailstorm hit the ground the players retreating to the dressing room. The sun soon returning, Mollie Coupar from inside the box heading in a free-kick to put Cambridge 3-1 up. An handball inside the box seeing Cambridge awarded a penalty Shephard burying it to score her 2nd of the game. Coupar with a chipped effort scoring her 2nd of the game to seal a 5-1 win for Cambridge who move up into the top half of the table. Back in action on Tuesday evening at The Abbey Stadium with momentum going into the Cambridge Women’s Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies.
A late call this Wednesday evening for a spot of midweek football action under the lights, a trip down to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Norwich City Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Arriving 20 minutes before kick-off the warm ups well underway, the team line-ups readily available, soon set for kick-off. The two sides currently sitting 7th and 8th in the South East Division one respectfully, Cambridge United WFC moving a point clear of Norwich City Ladies as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season holding them to a goalless draw at home at the weekend. Blustery conditions after heavy rain overnight, Norwich saw there game away to Stevenage Ladies called off on Sunday due to a water logged pitch.
A win for either tonight pushing them right onto the tails of the sides battling for a top half finish. Cambridge with a confidence boosting performance to get a point against Crawley looking to continue that form as they prepare of next weeks Invitation Cup Final against rivals Cambridge City Ladies being played at the Abbey Stadium on Tuesday evening. Will also want to put in a better performance against Norwich having been beaten by them 3-0 with a few regulars unavailable in the reverse fixture back at the start of October.
Norwich have saved some off their best performances for thier games under the lights, 3 of their 5 wins so far this season coming in midweek fixtures, all against their East Anglian rivals, once against Cambridge with the double over Ipswich Town Women. Building well this season after a couple of seasons battling at the wrong end of the table, should be safe from getting dragged into the bottom two this season, like Cambridge well placed with a positive result having the same effect. Missing a few experienced players tonight especially at the back however have given several young players opportunities this season and most have performed well when called upon.
A calm evening the air still after Storm Gareth had blown through earlier. Cool, glad the blustery conditions had passed it wasn’t fun on Sunday. The pitch set on a slope at Mildenhall Town from one goal to the the other, a good size offering plenty of width. The bar clubhouse open.
Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Vicky Neal, Amber Cantwell, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Amy Howlett (C) & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Fran Gough, Kelley Blanchflower & Holly Turbill.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Keunna Dill, Lilly Bueggeln, Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake (C), Eliza McDonald, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling, Reeanna Cook & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Kirstie Smith, Rosie George, Louise Kennedy & Elli-Ray Quinn-Nicholls.
Norwich choose to attack up the slope first half with Cambridge taking the kick off wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Norwich in their away colours green shirts and socks with yellow shorts. The ball moved left as Cambridge attack Jade Bell down the wing winning a throw in the ball played on into the top of the box headed clear by Norwich’s Tigi Robson. Cambridge press Norwich for possession early on closing them down Bell left the cross into the area Mollie Coupar receiving the ball near post back to goal a turn and hit blocked at close range the rebound blasted over at the far post.
Aimee Durrant taking the ball on gets in behind on the right wing for Norwich her cross off the mark screwed wide behind the Cambridge goal. Norwich captain Jodie Drake regaining possession right puts in on for Durrant she squares it inside for Eliza McDonald, Coupar coming back to quickly close the midfielder down to win it back for Cambridge the ball played out wide to Bell running on down the left cuts infield, Alice Parker wit Robson closing her down before she can get into the area.
GOAL! Cambridge take the lead inside the opening 5 minutes, Amber Cantwell on the ball central passing to Bells left, Becky Shephard racing ahead of her down the line fed the ball drives down to the byline cutting inside fires in a pacy cross across the six yard box with Cambridge’s Amy Howlett wearing the captains armband this evening timing her run perfectly to meet the ball and send it low back across the goal into the bottom corner 1-0.
A good start to the game from Cambridge pressing Norwich for the ball, closing down and moving forwards with purpose and pace in attack. Keumma Dill with the defending for Norwich at the far post as Cambridge send in another cross from the left. Durrant is clipped as she looks to get in behind on the right a free-kick awarded top of the area Durrant over it lifts a ball up into the area, Drake making the run central can’t reach it, over her Jemma Moore heads clear for Cambridge.
A mix-up at the back almost sees Howlett break clear in behind after the ball into the area, Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong alert quickly out to gather the ball before the attacker can get a telling touch. Another free-kick for Norwich left of the D 30 yards out Durrant with it again, goes for goal her strike half a yard over the bar. Good work from Norwich’s Reeanna Cook in midfield the ball put forwards for Chelsea Garrett leading the attack does well to force a throw in in the corner. Garrett receiving the ball from the throw-in on the byline turns well inside the box to send a cross in the ball just behind Natasha Snelling at the far post.
The 50/50 battles going Cambridge’s way, Vicky Neal breaking up a Norwich attack as they try to build through the middle. Kayleigh Anne Burt smashing a clearance into Neal it rebounds favourably for Bell to break on the left, Parker tackling to stop the cross. Cook with McDonald on through the middle Durrant making a run on the right, Carrie Bennett intercepting the ball for Cambridge.
Breaking up a Cambridge attack Norwich launch a rapid counter attack the ball with Durrant on the right her diagonal ball up towards Garrett central 30 yards out she gets up well to header in down into the path of the advancing Drake, she spots Cook making the run in behind right side the pass put into her inside the area the angle tight she shes it over her shoulder hits it on the volley the strike well over.
Howlett pressing the ball up front forces an error from the Norwich defence runs through to get hold of the ball inside the area plays it back out to Coupar on her right, holding it up Coupar gets it back to Howlett as she moves out to the right the ball into her run she slips as she pulls the trigger, Armstrong making the blocking save as she comes to narrow the angle. Cambridge get on down their left win a corner kick the delivery high into the angle headed out drops to Bell 20 yards out smashes it back in her shot over the bar.
Snelling up on the left receives the ball from Dill, looks to drive on tackled by Emma Jenkins the loose ball gathered by Garrett, Snelling gets inside the ball returned closing in on the area, her shot charged down. McDonald bringing the ball on for Norwich rides Howlett’s challenge, shooting from all of 30 yards out, the attempt not troubling Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith. Cambridge’s pressing game frustrating Norwich as they struggle to get the ball into advanced positions, Neal winning her fair share of tackles the ball inside to Cantwell, forwards for Coupar, Lilly Bueggeln close preventing the striker turning in behind.
Bell away on the left late in the first half a quick counter Norwich stretched cuts the cross into the box from the byline the shot behind, Shephard runs on to Cantwell shoots before Armstrong can get across to her the ball past the keeper is cleared off the line by her defence tracking back. Cambridge finishing the first half well a corner on the right a good delivery in Armstrong up inside her crowded six yard box gets the faintest of touches to the ball to see it run on out the far side for another corner, this again pushed behind by Armstrong coming near post, the keeper laying claim to the 3rd attempt as the whistle blows.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
Cambridge with the early goal holding a 1-0 advantage at the break, started well, closing Norwich down for the ball, quick to attack have frustrated their opponents who have struggled to get anything going in attack. Some last gasp defending preventing Norwich from falling further behind. One goal in it Norwich are far from out of it as the teams emerge for the 2nd half.
No changes for either side at the break Norwich to get the 2nd half underway, The ball out on the right, Durrant pushing on tackled by Bennett. Cook on the ball central looks to thread a pass on for Garrett in attack, Burt defending well up against her. Both sides looking to be positive at the start of the 2nd half, Norwich trying to spread the play. Parker does well winning the challenge inside her box on Howlett as she is played in by Shephard.
A throw high on the right for Cambridge Jemma Moore up from the back to take has a long throw the ball into the area put back to her to cross in Norwich heading the threat clear. Dill showing good pace to get back on Shephard as the Cambridge attacker looks to get away with the ball on the right. Cambridge continue to close down prevent Norwich breaking from inside their own half, Coupar the Neal with the tackles.
Close again from Coupar as she gets up well at the far post to head a cross from the left back in across the face of goal looks destined to lad in the back of the net, Robson doing brilliantly to hook the ball clear off the goal line. Bell linking up with Shephard in attack the latter seeing her shot from outside the area blocked. Neal receives a yellow card aggrieved as she is adjudged to have fouled Armstrong as she and the keeper come together at the top of the area as they both race to win a 50/50 ball.
Snelling getting in behind on the left as Burt can’t get the ball down to clear, the attacker taking it on towards the area puts the cross in, Smith down to claim the ball. Cambridge counter the ball up field quickly Shephard onto a defensive mix-up in behind, closing in on Armstrong the keeper going to ground getting something on the ball stopping it, Shephard looking to retrieve, Armstrong stretching out to get a glove on the ball pull it into her body.
Cambridge make the first change of the game Bennett having picked up a knock coming off, Kelley Blanchflower coming on the switch seeing Bell drop to left back. Cook cutting inside from the left shoots from 25 yards out her effort straight at Smith. Cambridge starting to see more of the ball, Blanchflower working across the defence to receive the ball. Dill doing well up against Howlett on the penalty spot as a cross is delivered into the box from the left.
Norwich’s frustrations continue nothing seems to be coming off in the final 3rd. Coupar driving to the byline from the left into the area gets a cross in, Armstrong has it covered claiming at her near post. Neal stops Norwich getting out as they win the ball from a throw put into the area from the right the midfielder tackling playing the ball on for Coupar her touch taking it inside the box from the left blasts a shot goalwards Armstrong saving well as she comes to block.
Parker into the book for foul a free-kick wide left for Cambridge the ball up towards the area headed away for a throw, Moore to take, once again gets it returned to put the cross in Armstrong claiming taking it off the head of the advancing attacker. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Norwich with a 2nd change Durrant coming off, Snelling switching to the right on comes Kathryn Stanley. Cambridge press the attack Blanchflower on for Coupar checks her run the ball taken from her won back by Jenkins getting forwards puts it on for Shephard looking to get away right side coming into the box, Drake sliding in to make the challenge blocks her shot with her leg.
Coupar is down hurt play eventually stopped after treatment can’t continue on in her place comes Holly Turbill. Starting to get a little nervy out their as much as Cambridge need a 2nd goal they also want a clean sheet, continue to work hard to close the ball down all over the pitch. Howlett fouled by Dill a free-kick for Cambridge right outside the area the delivery in just out of range of Blanchflower jumping central falls unexpectedly to Neal at the far post can’t get it down under control for a shot before the Norwich defence close her down.
A second change for Norwich with Rosie George coming on to replace Snelling. Cook bringing the ball on drake ahead of her plays the diagonal ball out t Stanley left, Jenkins in to challenge with the game into stoppage time. Kirstie Smith coming on for Norwich, Robson fouled trying to get forwards 25 yards out, Cambridge back inside their box to defend, a little scrappy the home side manage to get the ball clear. The ball taken into the corner by Shephard late on, the clock ran down, the final whistle blows Cambridge winning the 3 points.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Norwich City Ladies
A good result for Cambridge, Howlett’s early goal the difference between the sides, Cambridge creating chances to extend the lead Norwich with two goal line clearances to keep them going further ahead. A frustrating evening for Norwich never really got going in attack largely due to Cambridge’s closing down and pressing. All over the pitch kept up the pressure quick to launch attacks the hard work paying off. Nervy towards the end trailing 1-0 Norwich were never out of the game.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, good work from the whole Cambridge team to close down the ball, force errors and break up attacks before they could get going. Jade Bell setting the tone, Amy Howlett making some good runs the award though goes to Vicky Neal little got past her winning the ball in advanced positions keeping the pressure on for Cambridge in the final third.
A late call, so didn’t get a chance to say hello to everyone having to dash at the end too. Good to see both sides, an enjoyable game under the lights, the team details readily available with my notepad I’m all set. The first final of the season upon us this weekend, and that signals the beginning of a usually frantic end to the season, where has the time gone?
The Round-Up returns after a weeks absence. My apologies but it couldn’t be helped family matters taking priority needed my full attention. All sorted now I hope. This Sunday saw another wet beginning with strong blustery winds affecting all games in the afternoon making for difficult playing conditions for all the games that managed to get played across the country.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
The FAWNL affected by the weather as much as most, with 5 matches across the Southern Premier & South East Division One called off. Gillingham Ladies home match with Watford Ladies the only postponement in the Southern Premier Division. Coventry United Ladies made it 13 games unbeaten at the top of the Southern Premier with the league leaders away to bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. Amy Wathan putting Coventry into the lead in the 14th minute. Wathan was then brought down inside the box midway through the 1st half, Chenise Austin doubling the advantage from the penalty spot. Shannon O’Brien adding a 3rd goal in the 38th minute to see the visitors lead 3-0 at half-time.
Coventry United Ladies, Amy Wathan
Bethan Merrick scoring from an Amber Hughes cross midway through the 2nd half saw Coventry extend their lead over the Essex side a 5th goal coming through an own goal, Merrick’s shot deflected in. Coventry awarded another penalty for handball in stoppage time, Austin scoring to secure a 6-0 victory opening up a 4 point lead.
A third successive league defeat now for former Southern Premier Division leaders, Chichester City Ladies. The 2nd placed side seeing Coventry pull further away as they were defeated at home to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Started well taking the lead in the 17th minute with Jess Lewry on the scoresheet. Loughborough coming back to equalise with 10 minutes of the 1st half remaining, Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner. The visitors taking the lead themselves 5 minutes later awarded a penalty kick, Chloe Young scoring from the spot. Chichester pushed hard for an equaliser themselves 2nd half creating opportunities Loughborough defending, 15 minutes left on the clock Laura Steele struck from 25 yards out the ball in off the post to put the visitors 3-1 up and take the 3 points home with them.
Cardiff City Ladies in 3rd in the Southern Premier Division close the gap to Chichester to just 2 points now with their 7th straight league win on Sunday. Left it late however away from home against Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Kelly Issac’s strike in the 19th minute seeing Cardiff take the lead. Plymouth battled back to level the scores in the 36th minute with Zoe Cunningham scoring. The hosts doing well despite the conditions took the lead themselves on the hour with Jessie Jones making it 2-1. The game moving into the final 10 minutes a ball played into the area from a corner put in at the far post by Cori Williams to level it up at 2-2 for Cardiff. Plymouth pressing for a winning goal were hit on the counter in the final minute with Kylie Nolan firing in what would prove to be the winner for Cardiff.
Portsmouth FC Women were at home to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies this Sunday in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. The hosts opening the scoring just before the half hour with Katie Jones . New signing Jade Widdows scoring her 1st goal for Portsmouth since joining from Chichester 7 minutes later running in behind with the ball cutting inside to score from inside the area to make it 2-0. Portsmouth 2-0 up at the break Alex Collighan introduced to the action in the 59th minute making an immediate impact scoring with her 1st touch to put the hosts into a 3 goal lead. Rachel Panting adding a 4th with 20 minutes to go to seal a 4-0 win for Portsmouth.
FAWNL South East Division One
Two games survived in FAWNL South East Division One, the weather conditions not great, no goals to report either as both games finished goalless. That though some achievement for Cambridge United WFC as they became the first side in the league to take points off leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies this season. 12 straight wins for Crawley before this Sunday since promotion to the FAWNL. Worked hard to find an opening, frustrated as Cambridge battled hard defensively to keep them out.
A point to between Denham United Ladies at home to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. A scrappy affair with the blustery conditions not helping at all, few chances created.
Perfect weather for the final weekend of February last year we had the Beast from the East this time around it was positively tropical in comparison with bright sunshine and warm temperatures far from the expected for this time of year and no one was complaining.
Sad news too with many clubs up and down the country pausing before their matches in memory of Jordan Dawes who passed away after losing her brief battle with liver cancer. The 18-year-old goalkeeper life all too short, touched many in that time, a great smile, a talented goalkeeper whose previous clubs include Charlton Athletic Women and Kent United. A life taken too soon rest in peace Jordan.
A tribute picture for Jordan Dawes produced by Kent Football United
FAWNL Cup
Plenty of action across all leagues this Sunday, we begin the action in the FAWNL. One remaining game to be played in the last 8 of the FAWNL Cup. Crawley Wasps Ladies still with a 100% league record leading the way in South East Division One travelling once again to play Coventry United Ladies, themselves with an unbeaten record laying 2nd in the Southern Premier Division. The two sides having met already one this season at the start of 2019 in the FA Women’s Cup, Crawley Wasps winning the game 2-1 to knock their higher league opponents out of the competition.
This Sunday’s quarter final tie no less competitive the dead lock broken with 37 minutes on the clock Kemina Webber who had already seen an effort ruled off for offside fed the ball inside the box and slotting home to make it 1-0. That the advantage for Crawley at the break. Coventry pushing for a reply early in the 2nd half, Beth Merrick getting the equaliser with a looping header back across the face of goal to make it 1-1 with nearly an hour played. Merrick coming close with a strike over the bar moments later. Crawley winning a corner up the other end Naomi Cole sending the ball long to the far post Darcey James with the header to send the ball back in and restore the visitors lead. Defending it was a repeat of the FA Cup game with Crawley winning 2-1 to reach the last 4 and will be at home to Bolton Wanderers Ladies this coming Sunday a place in the final for the winners.
FAWNL Plate
Like the FAWNL Cup their was one outstanding quarter final tie left in the Plate competition with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies at home taking on South West Division One side Keynsham Town Ladies. The visitors getting themselves into the lead midway through the 1st half. The Southern Premier Division side getting themselves back on level terms before the break with Leanna Doyle putting Leah Cudone through on goal to make it 1-1. Both sides with chances 2nd half Keynsham rattling the woodwork, the game entering the final 20 minutes the visitors were awarded a free-kick 20 yards out scored to retake the lead. The clock rapidly running down Milton Keynes levelled the scores at the death to force the game into extra-time Amy Gooderham with the goal. The hosts coming close to winning the game in the extra period it remained 2-2 to head into a penalty shootout. 3-3 after the regulation 5 into sudden death, Emma Kirby saving for Milton Keynes. Alice Hughes scored to send them through 5-4. Milton Keynes at home to Liverpool Feds Women in the semi-finals this coming Sunday.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Six league wins in a row now for Cardiff City Ladies in the Southern Premier Division as the 3rd placed side won at home this Sunday in the process seeing league leaders Chichester City Ladies suffer back to back defeats. The damage done in the opening half hour the Welsh side getting themselves into a 3-0 lead with Emma Jones scoring a hat-trick. Her 1st on 6 minutes the 2nd quickly followed by the 3rd midway through the 1st half. Jess Lewry pulling it back to 3-1 late in the 1st half. That was how the scores remained going into the final 5 minutes, a 30 yard strike from Chloe Jones securing the win for Cardiff, despite Cherelle Khassel getting a goal for Chichester in the 88th minute. A 4-2 win for Cardiff in 3rd position leading the chasing pack close the gap to Chichester to 5 points with two games in hand.
Is a 3 way tie of 28 points in 3rd, 4th & 5th in the Southern Premier Division table with Oxford United Women another form side in 4th position 5 wins in a row in the league themselves now unbeaten in 7 to climb the table. Were at home to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, another close game a single goal winning the game coming from Florence Fyfe her 9th goal of the season seeing her become joint top scorer with Emily Allen winning the game 1-0 for Oxford.
Points dropped in recent games had seen Watford FC Ladies slip from 3rd to 5th. Have bounced back with an unbeaten run of 3 matches in the Southern Premier Division. 7 points collected in that time the latest 3 points coming away to Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday. Watford coming back from trailing 1-0 at half-time to win the game 2-1 with a winning goal 6 minutes from time. Rebecca Mcgrother putting Loughborough 1-0 up in the 1st half. Helen Ward equalising for Watford 12 minutes into the 2nd half with her 17th goal of the season. The winner struck late on Alysha Stojko-Down scoring her first goal of the season to see the visitors return home with the 3 points.
A 7 goal thriller in the other game played in the Southern Premier Division at the weekend with 2nd bottom side Queens Park Rangers Women travelling down to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Zoe Cunningham putting the hosts into the lead in the 12th minute the advantage short-lived with QPR levelling moments later through Jo Wilson. 3 minutes later QPR were in front themselves Wilson striking again to make it 2-1. Jessie Jones bringing it back to 2-2 for Plymouth on the half hour. 2-2 at half-time. Cunningham with her 2nd of the match putting Plymouth back into the lead in the 56th minute. The game entering the final 10 minutes Mollie Taylor extended the home sides lead to make it 4-2, but again QPR responded with a quick reply Wilson on target scoring her 3rd ad completing a hat-trick setting up a tense finish to the game Plymouth holding on however to win the game 4-3.
FAWNL South East Division One
4 games in South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps leading the way involved in the League Cup it was another opportunity for 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap on them to 4 points. Were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday. In need of the points themselves have a growing injury list despite that put in a good defensive display to keep thier opponents at bay, goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of saves. Hit the post up the other end Amy Josland with the strike. Billericay are scoring goals and have a number of prolific players in their side the Essex side getting in front on the hour Zoe Rushen finding the back of the net. It wasn’t until the final minute that the 3 points were secured Sam Pittuck with the strike to see the game won 2-0. Billericay have played 2 more than Crawley.
In 3rd position in the South East Division One table Actonians Ladies are now unbeaten in 8 games in all competitions. A long trip up to Norfolk this Sunday to take on Norwich City Ladies in the league. A lively start to the match with Carla Williams firing Actonians into a 5th minute lead. Norwich hitting back straight away with Chelsea Garrett firing home to make it 1-1 in the 7th minute. Alessandra Barreca has been Actonians main goal threat in recent seasons and her 19th strike of the season in the 21st minute saw the visitors leading 2-1 at half-time. Kate Parsons introduced to the action for Norwich in the 57th minute she levelled the scores at 2-2 with the game entering the final 20 minutes. Actonians were soon back in front Barreca with her 2nd of the match and 20th of the season scoring what would prove to be the winning.
Leyton Orient WFC had suffered 3 straight defeats in the league going into this Sunday’s away trip to Mildenhall Town FC to play Cambridge United Women. The hosts taking the lead through a fantastic 25 yard strike from Amber Cantwell. Sophie Le Marchand always a threat on the attack for Leyton Orient put in behind the defence levelling the scores before half-time. The visitors going on to win the game by a single goal scoring again in the 2nd half, Egle Trezzi in midfield playing the ball on for Suaila Cardoso Queni running across the back line top of the area slotting the ball past the advancing goalkeeper. Leyton Orient up a place to 4th position.
Leyton Orient WFC’s Sophie Le Marchand
Luton Town Ladies had found themselves adrift at the bottom of the South East Division One table a tough season to date just 4 points on the board going into the week. Earned a useful point against a much improved Enfield Town Ladies with a battling 0-0 draw at Enfield on Wednesday night. This weekend were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies. The hosts enduring a run of 4 straight defeats in all competitions going into the game. Luton started well captain Zara Carroll firing home from a free-kick to put the visiting side 1-0 up inside 3 minutes. Dionne Manning rounding the keeper to make it 2-0 inside the opening 15 minutes. Manning with the assist on the half hour for substitute Remi Bains to score. 3-0 up at half-time. Katie Stanley pulling a goal back for Wimbledon midway through the 2nd half. Jess McKay found the bottom corner in the closing minutes to see Luton win the game 4-1 just their 2nd win of the season and close the gap to Denham it 2 points, both Stevenage and Cambridge in danger of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom now on 14 points each.
A County Cup weekend across the country saw a limited number of games played in the FAWNL this Sunday with several teams involved in the latter stages of their various cup competitions a few from the county’s covered by Women’s Football East will get a mention later on this weeks 1st edition of The Round-Up concentrates on the games that did take place in the FAWNL itself this Sunday with a look back to the games that took place under the lights during midweek.
Four games were played in the Southern Premier Division last week, 2nd placed Coventry United Ladies closing the gap to 2 points on leaders Chichester City Ladies who saw their game away to Portsmouth FC Women postponed. Coventry travelling to played Loughborough Foxes Women. Amber Hughes striking in the 9th minute to hand Coventry an early lead her 12th goal of the campaign. Amy Wathan the lead goalscorer just head of Hughes doubling the lead in the 36th minute her 14th of the season. No further goals added in the 2nd half Coventry winning 2-0 are unbeaten in the league with 10 wins from 11 played 3 games in hand on Chichester.
Also on Thursday night it was a high scoring game between Gillingham FC Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies. An eventful match Gillingham opening the scoring inside 2 minutes with Alice Bussey on target. The visitors from Essex responding quickly with Courtney Clarke scoring to equalise for Basildon. Gemma Abela struck the ball home from 25 yards to put Basildon into the lead in the 15th minute. Midway through the 1st half it was Gillingham’s turn to level the scores Ellie Manning scoring against her former club. 2-2 at the break Gillingham restored their lead just past the hour with Grace Seely finding the back of the net. The game closing in on the final 10 minutes Gillingham got themselves a 2 goal cushion with midfielder player Daisy Monaghan scoring. Holly Turner puling it back to 4-3 to set up a nervous end to the game with 7 minutes left on the clock, in the end it was Gillingham who got a further goal to win the game 5-3 with Samantha Booker getting the goal in the 87th minute.
Two games before that on Wednesday evening. A trip to the Stadium MK for Oxford United Women as they took on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in the league. Not much separating the sides first half Florence Fyfe scoring in the final minute of the half to put Oxford into the lead with her 9th goal of the season. Oxford defending thier narrow advantage as the game approached the final 10 minutes, a goal from Emily Allen seeing the visitors go 2-0 up a 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the first for Oxford for new signing Cheryl Williams. Oxford up into 4th place in the Southern Premier Division table.
Queen’s Park Rangers Women were hosting Watford Ladies on Wednesday night the host taking an early lead in the game with Jo Wilson on target in the 2nd minute. Watford levelling the scores midway through the first half with Helen Ward top scorer for Watford getting her 16th goal of the campaign. QPR working hard kept Watford from finding another goal to earn a useful point ending the game with 10 as Hollie Hogan was red carded in the final minute.
Is all very tight in the chasing pack as Cardiff City Ladies playing in the only Southern Premier Division fixture on Sunday away to Gillingham picked up their 8th win of the season to climb up to 3rd in the table and see 3 sides ties on 25 points with Oxford 4th, Watford 5th and Loughborough Foxes Women just 2 points further back in 6th. Travelling to Kent to take on Gillingham the sides fought out a goalless 1st half, the dead lock broken on the hour with Emma Jones firing a shot home to put Cardiff 1 up. Remained tight Cardiff defending late in as Gillingham pushed for a reply deep into stoppage time the visitors breaking Kylie Nolan firing the ball home to seal the win for Cardiff.
FAWNL Cup
Both in action in midweek Loughborough Foxes Women were at home taking on South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup on Sunday. The Southern Premier Division side getting their noses in front late in the first half with Charlotte Cooper getting to the ball first at the near post to turn the ball into the back of the net to see the hosts leading 1-0 at half-time. Loughborough doubling the advantage early in the 2nd half with Rebecca McGrother putting the ball in from close range at the far post off a right wing cross. McGrother scoring again in stoppage time as Loughborough hit their opponents on the counter to win 3-0 and book their place in the last 4. An away trip to either Northern Premier Division leaders or 2nd placed Huddersfield Town Ladies awaits in the semi-final with the pair meeting this coming Sunday.
Coventry United Ladies are at home to Crawley Wasps Ladies also this coming Sunday in the FAWNL Cup the winners will be at home to Northern Division One side Bolton Wanderers Ladies in the semi-finals both games scheduled for Sun 3rd March.
In the last 4 of the FAWNL Plate competition, Gillingham FC Ladies will be at home to West Bromich Albion Ladies. Liverpool Feds Women will be away to the winners of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies & Keynsham Town Ladies who meet this coming Sunday. Again both games to be played Sun 3rd March.
FAWNL South East Division One
Again their was just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, but we’ll begin with the action in midweek. 4 games played on Wednesday night. One of those is were Women’s Football East was a trip to Plantation Park to watch the East Anglian Derby between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women. Ipswich starting the bright had a couple of efforts cannon off the woodwork it was Norwich whoever who took the lead a well worked goal through the middle of the park started and finished by Reeanna Cook the young midfielder getting into the box left of goal curling a strike into the top corner. 1-0 the lead at half-time striker Chelsea Garrett was introduced for Norwich making her return after 3 months out injured made a immediate impact running onto a ball forwards in behind and striking the ball past the keeper to make it 2-0 in the 46th minute. Norwich growing in confidence were the better side in the 2nd period Cook with a driving run on the left firing home late in the game for her 2nd of the game and Norwich’s 3rd to take the 3 points climb above their rivals. Head coach Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role at Ipswich after the game.
South East Division One leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies were away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Wednesday. An early goal for Crawley Rachel Palmer sending the ball in as Megan Stow squared it to her from a cleared corner. Wimbledon coming close to an equaliser Crawley taking a 2-0 lead in the game inside the opening quarter hour with Kemina Webber scoring. The visitors awarded a brace of penalties late in the 1st half Naomi Cole converting both in the 36th and 44th minute to see them lead 4-0 at the break. No more goals added in the 2nd period Crawley’s 100% record extended to 11 games in the league.
A brace from Zoe Rushen was the difference between the sides as 2nd placed Billericay Town Lades took on Leyton Orient WFC on Wednesday night. Rushen on target with a goal in each half. Leyton Orient pressing for an equaliser drawing level in the 65th minute with Egle Trezzi making it 1-1. Rushen on the scoresheet again to make it 2-1 and win the game for Billericay.
The points were shared in the other match played in South East Division One on Wednesday night with Cambridge United WFC travelling to Hertford Town FC to play Stevenage Ladies. Goalless at the break between the sides Vicky Neal getting the ball past the keeper to put Cambridge into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Stevenage coming back to rescue a point late on the game with former Cambridge player Ashleigh Deacon scoring to make it 1-1 in the 87th minute.
Stevenage were at home again on Sunday the latest side to try and put an end to Crawley Wasps 100% record in the league. Crawley maintaining strong form throughout the season aren’t keen on giving it up. The visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half with Amy Woollard on target for her first goal for Crawley. Kemina Webber scoring to see Crawley leading 2-0 in the 45th minute. Megan Stow further extending the visitors lead with a goal in the 58th minute to make it 3-0, a quick fire brace from Naomi Cole and Webber in the 62nd & 64th minutes putting Crawley in full control of the game Cole went on to add a 2nd with a spectacular strike from centreback Charlotte Young in the final minute sealing a 7-0 win, 12 wins from 12 now Crawley 7 points clear at the top of the table.
A spot of midweek football action this Wednesday evening with a trip up the A47 to watch the East Anglian Derby match between Norwich City Ladies & Ipswich Town Women at Plantation Park the two sides meeting just 4 days after the men’s clubs went head to head at Carrow Road.
Both these sides stalwarts of the FAWNL South East Division One as it’s currently known have seen it’s many guises over recent season’s remains the 4th tier in the women’s football pyramid. Both East Anglian clubs with ambitions to climb out of Division One and into the Southern Premier Division above.
Ipswich lay in 7th spot going into this evenings game with Norwich a place and 2 points behind in what is a tightly contest league once again this season a real tussle for position in the middle of the table any team getting a run of results going likely to find themselves in the top 5 or higher such is the competition, Crawley Wasps Ladies aside who have a 100% after 10 played to lead the way look strong contenders for the title and promotion.
A change of coaching personnel towards the end of last for Norwich, Grant Palmer in charge of the 1st team now. The side languishing at the wrong end of the season for a couple of seasons prior, have improved this campaign a good balance of youth and experience, fitness also worked on results and performances see them looking to push up the table instead off getting dragged into relegation zone. 4 wins to date in the league two of those coming under the lights including their 1st win of the season a 1-0 result away to Ipswich in the reverse fixture.
Carla Dickinson taking over as 1st team manager at Ipswich Town Women at the beginning of the season worked with Grant Palmer at Norwich prior to taking on the head coaches role. Taking charge of a side challenging at the top end of the league recently, has brought in several new faces to the squad, amongst them Toni-Anne Wayne now enjoying playing an outfield role after keeper goal for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies for a number of season prior. Midfielder Ceira Flatt joining from Acle United Women, with two new signings announced on the eve of this evenings derby, Amy Nash and Georgia Box joining from Billericay Town Ladies, a over that sees Kerry Stimson and Laken Duchar Clark head in the opposite direction. Recent form against Ipswich with just the one point collected from their last 4 league games.
A good atmosphere building at Plantation Park before the game the positive result for the Canaries on Sunday seeing the timing of this evenings derby match spot on, the club hoping the feel good factor will see an increased attendance and it looked positive with a crowd in excess of 230. The pitch at Plantation Park seeing plenty pf action, offering plenty of width is a good size the bar overlooking one goal a small seated stand along one side of the pitch. Has been a mild day, dry the evening air cooling but no chance of rain.
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Tigi Robson, Alice Parker, Sasha Diston (C), Laura Tacker, Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Kathryn Stanley & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Eliza McDonald, Keunna Dill, Christina Papadopolou, Rosie George & Chelsea Garrett.
Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Sian Fagg (C), Jac Ball, Gemma Moore, Hannah Petley, Florence Cage, Jordan Arnoup, Cassie Craddock, Natasha Thomas, Zoe Cossey, Amy Nash & Toni-Anne Wayne. Subs – Danni Clarke, Sophie Welton, Paige Wakefield, Ciera Flatt & Georgia Box.
New signing Amy Nash starts for Ipswich with fellow new signing Georgia Box on the bench for Ipswich the visitors kitted out in blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Norwich wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green banded socks the home side to kick off the game under the lights. The hosts playing the ball out to Aimee Durrant getting forwards on the right wing, Jac Ball dealing with the threat for Ipswich heading the ball back to goalkeeper Sian Fagg wearing the captains armband.
Ipswich get straight down the other end the ball played on for Toni_Anne Wayne moving out to the right squares the ball back across the top of the Norwich area for Natasha Thomas back to goal she helps it on into the path of Jac Ball racing on on the left takes on the shot from the angle hits it well rising her powerful strike smashes against the crossbar.
Norwich build from the back the ball played on up the left side Kathryn Stanley giving chase, Gemma Moore getting to the ball just before the attacker clears it for the throw. Norwich look to plough a path through the middle of the park Millie Daviss with support from Reeanna Cook and Natasha Snelling, Florence Cage and Hannah Petley playing in the centre of defence for Ipswich close the door break up the attack.
The ball intercepted at the back Laura Thacker for Norwich playing the ball into Jodie Drake in midfield, sees the ball into her feet well turns cleverly sending an over the top pass on for Durrant breaking right, Fagg reacts quickly getting out to lay claim to it before the winger can pounce. A good tempo to the game both sides looking to move the ball quickly, Ipswich pressing Norwich.
Daviss and Cook look to combine through the centre of midfield as they drive forwards a tackle seeing the ball pop loose into the path of Snelling she sends it on over the defence into the area, Durrant alert to it however Fagg can safely claim it first. Jordan Arnoup picking the ball up in midfield for Ipswich plays a good early ball out to the right for Amy Nash to go after, Alice Parker recovering to get across her the full back can see it out for a goal kick.
Zoe Cossey moving right keeps the ball well beating three players as she looks to come inside the Ipswich attackers shot saved by Norwich goalkeeper Hope Armstrong at her near post the ball behind for a corner. The high ball in cleared back to the taker on the right side, Norwich winning in back look to counter, Cossey with a superb tackle regaining possession driving on from 30 yards out cuts inside closing in on the area unleashes a shot the dipping ball cannoning off the crossbar once gain.
A couple of over exuberant challenges coming in both sides getting on with it however. Ipswich continuing their bright start attack down the left side a driving run and shot from Ball, Armstrong coming across her goal claiming it. Norwich starting to gain a little momentum the ball won in the middle, Jodie Drake on for Cook she plays the pass on for Durrant breaking forwards on the right wing her cross/shot into the area held safely by Fagg at her near post.
GOAL! 15 minutes on the board and Norwich take the lead strong build-up play in the middle the move beginning with Cook a powerful run forwards on the ball support from Daviss to her right the two drive on the ball played into Snelling back to goal 20 yards out central, holds it up Cook continuing forward moves left the ball coming into her she controls to take the ball away from her body and setting herself curls a fine strike past the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.
Cook with good work to win the ball once again in the middle looks to release Stanley on the left side, Florence Cage getting out to her to tackle and regain the ball for Ipswich. Nash doing well on the right an experienced player able to get the ball in behind her full back the tempo remains high Norwich pacy in their build up play. Snelling peeling away to the left sees her cross into the area taken by Fagg. Cossey looking to take something happen in the final 3rd lays the ball inside for Cassie Craddock the midfielder closed down by Norwich captain Sasha Diston outside the area.
Daviss wins the ball in the midfield is quick to play the pass on for Snelling breaking forwards moving right, Ball defends for Ipswich. Snelling back to goal outside the area sees the ball into her feet holding off her marker lays in back for the onrushing Drake her shot charged down by Hannah Petley. Craddock with the pass to pick out Nash getting clear on the right she squared a cross along to top of the Norwich area the ball cleared by Laura Thacker before Wayne can reach it.
The ball is pinging about in midfield as players from both sides close each other down, Ipswich managing to get it clear on for Nash running away on the right closing in on the byline lays the ball back inside Wayne taking on the first time strike can’t keep her shot down. Cage with some great defensive work closing down Snelling as Stanley breaking on the right plays the ball inside to the attacker. Cook lifts the ball on central for Snelling looking to bring it down under control as she closes down Cage the Ipswich defender doing well under pressure to deny a shooting opportunity.
A free-kick for Ipswich wide right level with the top of the Norwich area the ball fired into Nash position top right hand corner she drives a shot in through the crowd, Armstrong seeing it late down well to parry it away the ball loose latched onto by Thomas hits it hard close range Armstrong making another great stop to stop Ipswich levelling the scores with less than 10 minutes of the 1st half left to play.
Norwich get up the other end a throw won on the right dropped into Daviss she surges forwards knocking the ball on trying to get into the area Snelling with her the door shut the ball cleared is latched onto by either Cook or Drake 25 yards out a low shot driven in coming through bodies Fagg is well positioned to drop and claim the ball. Norwich finishing the half well pushing forwards Stanley into Snelling more good hold up play before sending the pass out to Drake making a run right of her takes on the shot lacks the power trouble Fagg. A good tackle from Tigi Robson stops a late Ipswich attack as the visitors look to break in behind on the wing.
Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-0 Ipswich Town Women
Norwich holding the slender lead at the break. The game played at a good tempo the half racing by. Ipswich starting well striking the woodwork twice and denied too with a terrific double save from Armstrong. Norwich grew into the game good build-up play purposeful and with pace Cook taking her goal very well to see the hosts leading. All set up for another intriguing 45 minutes play.
Norwich making a change at half-time Stanley the player subbed on comes Chelsea Garrett, making her return after a 3 month long injury lay off. It’s Ipswich to get things underway in the 2nd half.
GOAL! The ball played out to the right wing, Robson over that side now winning the ball for Norwich put up field centrally Garrett running onto the ball breaks in behind and races for the box let’s fly from the top of the area the ball racing past Fagg and into the back of the net, a perfect start to the 2nd half for Norwich and a scoring return for Garrett moments after coming on 2-0.
A blow for Ipswich right at the start of the 2nd half, no time to get into place any game plan talked about at half-time. Norwich gaining confidence Durrant getting clear on the right wing driving on sweeps a cross in centrally, Cook getting her head on it top of the area left of the D the ball looping up and wide of goal. Cossey as busy as ever in the middle off the park gaining possession running on putting the ball on into Wayne she spins tries to play the ball on for Nash to get in behind on the right, just too much weight on the pass.
Cossey central brings the ball on laying it out to Nash left of her outside the Norwich area Arnoup central, Nash plays her in she sends it out for Thomas breaking into the area to her right comes inside shooting from close range Armstrong making the blocking save. Ipswich make their first change of the game with Craddock coming of Paige Wakefield coming on. Garrett adding a threat centrally in attack for Norwich, Snelling coming left the midfielders sitting back more. Thomas pushes on down the right, in behind Robson, Diston coming across slides into the challenge the ball out for a throw. Cossey gathering the ball turns and drives towards the top of the area, strikes the ball well her effort fired wide across Armstrong’s goal.
Durrant is finding space on the right as Ipswich push up played in behind she is quick on the ball taking it down the line fires an inviting ball into the six yard box Garrett their looks set to turn it in but for the timely arrival of Moore the right back with a fine piece of defensive work in a dangerous area. Ipswich with a throw high on the right into Wayne given to Cossey she comes inside along the top of the area slips as she goes to shoot the ball harmlessly through to the keeper. Nash this time wide on the left for Ipswich taking the ball to the byline fires a ball in across goal Wayne meeting it first time the shot blocked Thomas closed down as she tries to latch onto the loose ball.
Just over an hour played and Nash’s work is done for the evening a good debut. Her replacement Sophie Welton who takes up a position on the right. Soon after Norwich make their 2nd change Snelling coming off on comes Christina Papadopolou, the Greek player making her 3rd appearance for Norwich. 65 minutes played.
Norwich playing the better 2nd half pushing forwards well as a unit win a corner right side the ball delivered into Garrett position central outside the box turns the ball into the box her low strike racing wide of goal. Ipswich win a free-kick inside the Norwich half, Arnoup over the ball plays it high into the box, Diston under it heading firmly clear for Norwich. The game opening up Ipswich counter attack Wakefield getting furthest forwards tries to take the ball on into the area is stopped by Thacker, Norwich turning the attack around counter themselves Durrant still full of energy bursting away right side fires a low cross into the area Cook meeting it 8 yards out her near post shot saved well by Fagg pushed behind for the corner.
Norwich are getting stronger as the 2nd half progresses Ipswich looking a little disjointed are getting out of shape a few last gasp challenges made as Garrett breaks forwards with support to her left and right, Arnoup going into the book following a strong tackle sliding in 25 out. The resulting shot from the free-kick dropping wide of goal. Welton getting forwards on the right for Ipswich her cross into the box gets through the defensive comes into Thomas unexpectedly gets a first time shot away the attempt sliced wide of goal.
Durrant clear again right side as a deflected ball in the middle loops in behind the Ipswich defence, Cage and then Ball get back to defend, trying to get out Norwich close the ball down regain possession in the final third the cross played in Garrett with the shot central the ball claimed by Fagg. Cossey has picked up a knock comes off with 12 minutes to go, Georgia Box coming on to make her Ipswich debut. Durrant is showing no signs of fatigue breaks away right again lays the ball in central Garrett attempting a deft header for Papadopolou, the ball headed clear by Petley.
Wakefield links up with Welton on the right for Ipswich the midfielder laying the ball out to the winger receiving the return pass inside the area her shot held by Armstrong covering her near post. Norwich remain lively win a corner right side a good delivery into the six yard box Fagg doing well amongst the crowd to get a firm fist on the ball. The ball collected far side the ball back in a tackle seeing it deflected behind for another corner, Norwich taking the opportunity to make a change it’s the taker Durrant coming off, on in her place a Keumma Dill for her first Norwich appearance studying at the University of East Anglia is a Burmudian International.
The corner coming in high claimed by Fagg she launches an attack Ipswich getting the ball out to the right, Parker over that side winning the tackle for Norwich the ball out for a throw, end to end in the closing stages of the game, Garrett breaking with the ball tackled by Cage, the ball put up field Box has it left outside the box Ball around her on the overlap played in her low cross fired into the area cleared by the back tracking Drake.
GOAL! Into the final five minutes a free-kick to Norwich on halfway the ball played out to the left onto the path of Cook the young midfielder driving forwards turning towards the area and shoots a powerful strike racing past Fagg into the bottom corner to assure the 3 points for Norwich 3-0.
The hosts remain full of energy Cook combining through the middle with Garrett central Cage putting an end to the move. Dill with the ball right cuts it inside with Cook running on, she attempt to slide the ball into the area for Garrett, Fagg can lay claim to it before the attacker. One last attack for Ipswich the ball played on Wayne doing well chasing it down top of the area holding it up getting the pass into Box arriving left side her shot scooped up into the area taken cleanly by Armstrong.
Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Ipswich Town Women
A 3-0 win to Norwich the 3 points seeing them leap frog Ipswich in the South East Division One and leaves them just a point off the top half. By far the stronger side in the 2nd half an early goal in the 2nd period helping the cause working well together gaining confidence and maintaining great energy levels throughout. Enjoy playing under the lights this their 3rd league win this season in mid-week. Buoyed by a good sized crowd wiling them on. Were clinical in their chances with 3 well taken goals.
Ipswich starting the game well creating opportunities and could have had the lead themselves. Became a little disjointed as the game wore on not reading each other as well as Norwich were, individuals at times plenty of talent it wasn’t happening for them tonight.
Breaking news as I finish up this match report with Carla Dickinson stepping down from her role as Head Coach, sorry to hear and wish Carla all the best for the future.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders for Norwich, will mention Zoe Cossey for Ipswich first some great runs with the ball is hard to tackle when she gets going created several openings. For Norwich a fine double stop from Hope Armstrong. Aimee Durrant might have stopped running by now a threat on the right all game especially 2nd half. Chelsea Garrett with a immediate attack kept the Ipswich defence busy. Reeanna Cook gets the award however with some fantastic work in midfield winning the ball getting involved in the forward play adding pace and urgency to the attack and taking her two goals superbly.
An enjoyable game under the lights good to see a decent crowd, my thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams.
It was once again another weather affected weekend across the football fixtures lists with games called off at all levels. A limited programme in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with just the two games scheduled. Leaders, Chichester City Ladies were looking to extend their 5 point lead at the top of the table with a win away to mid-table Oxford United Women on Sunday. The sides goalless at half-time Chichester creating the better opportunities, Oxford’s Georgia Timms seeing an effort come back off the woodwork. Lucy Thomas making some excellent saves in goal for the hosts the dead lock was broken in the 66th minute Timms’ heading the ball into the back of the net from a corner her goal proving to be enough as Oxford kept Chichester out at the other end to win their 7th game of the season. Chichester with their 3rd defeat of the campaign.
Plenty of goals in the other game from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday between Watford FC Ladies and Portsmouth FC Women. The game played at Letchworth’s County Ground a new playing surface. Eilidh Currie was making her 100th appearance for Portsmouth. Watford opening the scoring with Helen Ward making it 1-0 on 21 minutes, and own goal a few minutes later seeing the advantage doubled. Portsmouth reducing the deficit with a minute left of the 1st half with Shannon Albuery scoring to make it 2-1.
Half-time a 2-1 lead for Watford two quick goals at the start of the 2nd period putting the hosts into a strong positing Ward getting her 2nd of the game on 46 minutes, turned assist for Leanne Bell to score just a couple of minutes later. The game far from over however as Portsmouth mounted a strong come back awarded a penalty just past the hour, Rachel Panting firing the ball home to make it 4-2, Rebecca Bath on the scoresheet for Portsmouth soon after to make it 4-3 set up a frantic finish the game in stoppage time when the visitors grabbed the equalising goal Katie James with the finish making it 4-4. Time for a winner with Watford responding straight away attacking the ball crossed along the face of goal finding Ward at the far post to tap the ball in and celebrate her hat-trick and a 5-4 victory for Watford that sees them back up to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table.
Watford FC Ladies, Helen Ward
FAWNL South East Division One
Two of the 4 games scheduled in FAWNL South East Division One beat the weather on Sunday. It was 4th at home to 2nd in the league at the weekend with Enfield Town Ladies hosting Billericay Town Ladies both sides enjoying a good season to date. Opportunities for both in the 1st half the scores remained goalless at the break. Enfield taking the lead early in the 2nd half with Eliza Diaz on target to make it 1-0. Billericay were giving a debut to goalkeeper Gemma Crowe, the Essex side responding quickly to falling a goal behind equalised and then went on to take a 2-1 lead themselves, Lindsey Morgan and Jay Blackie with the goals. Leyla Yahioglu introduced in the 64th minute to make her 1st appearance for Enfield celebrated the occasion by getting a goal with 10 minutes remaining to level the scores and see the sides share the points.
Is a tight race in the top half of the FAWNL South East Division One 5th placed Leyton Orient WFC with a chance to climb up into 3rd spot themselves if they could secure the win at home to struggling Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both keepers called into action Leyton Orient saw a Sophie Le Marchand effort ruled off for offside. Denham proving hard to break down took an early lead in the 2nd half with Meila D’Santos finding the bottom corner to make it 1-0 the visitors going 2-0 to the good with Emma Kern’s effort trickling over the line in the 55th minute. Denham working hard to keep their lead and win for just the 2nd time this season the 3 points much needed applying a little bit of pressure to the sides above.
FAWNL Plate
One game from the quarter finals of the FAWNL Pate competition this Sunday with Southern Premier Division side Gillingham FC Ladies away to Stevenage Ladies from South East Division One. Stevenage having a few missing through injury including captain Paige Logie who has unfortunately suffered an ACL injury that will see her ruled out for the rest of the season. Despite thier injury problems Stevenage started the game well but against the run of play Gillingham took the lead scoring in the 23rd minute. An over the top ball seeing Gillingham double their lead, a 3rd goal coming early in the 2nd half Gillingham going on to win the game 4-0 to book their place in the last four.
Will be joined in the hat by West Bromich Albion Women who were 1-0 away winners against Barnsley Ladies this Sunday and Liverpool Feds Women from Northern Division One who beat Northern Premier Division side Middlesborough Women 2-0. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are at home to Keynsham Town Ladies this coming Sunday in the last Plate quarter final.
It was a bitterly cold and windy end to the month , not the best conditions for playing football at all across the region. The weather once again affecting the fixtures although not to as large extend as last weekend this time around 10 games fell by the way side. 3 of those fixtures in the Southern Premier Division with Coventry United, Plymouth Argyle and Watford seeing their home games called off.
With 2nd placed Coventry United not playing that gave a chance for Chichester City Ladies to extend their lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division on Sunday as they played host to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Leading Coventry United by 2 points. The visitors getting off to a great start forcing a save in the opening 2 minutes were awarded a penalty for handball a minute later Charley Clarke striking from the spot to put Milton Keynes Dons into the lead. Both sides creating opportunities Chichester coming back to level the score in 1st half injury time Molly Clark scoring from a 30 yard free-kick.
1-1 at the break it was Chichester who got off to a flyer in the 2nd going 2-1 up Lauren Cheshire getting the goal the hosts racing into a 3-1 lead with Rebecca Barron scoring from a corner kick. Milton Keynes pulling it back to 3-2 on the hour with Amy Gooderham scoring her 1st Milton Keynes Dons goal. Chichester hitting the visitors with 2 quickfire goals to secure the game with a 5-2 lead, Sara Tubby scoring both from corner in the 65th minute then adding her 2nd 2 minutes later. Chichester opening up a 5 point lead at the top of the table.
Good results for the sides chasing the leading pair too at the weekend with both 4th placed Loughborough Foxes Women & 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies getting the 3 points to overhaul 3rd placed Watford Ladies whose game at home to Oxford United was called off on Sunday. Loughborough were away taking on bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side still looking for their 1st league win of the season were doing well holding Loughborough to a goalless scoreline at the break. The stalemate broken with just under an hour played Charlotte Cooper scoring for the 6th time this season to put Loughborough into the lead. Chloe Young making the 3 points more secure as she doubled the visitors lead with 10 minutes left to play. The 2-0 win lifting Loughborough up into 3rd position in the Southern Premier Division table.
A 4th straight league win now for Cardiff City Ladies in the Southern Premier Division, won the 3 points with a emphatic win on the road against Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday. The visitors getting into a comfortable 3-0 lead at half-time went on to double that tally in the 2nd half. Kylie Nolan opening the scoring in the 26th minute. Injuries affecting QPR forced into early changes, Nolan doubled Cardiff’s lead in the 36th minute with Jordan Guard putting the ball into the net in the final minute of the 1st half. Grace Horrell adding Cardiff’s 4th goal early in the 2nd half, Emma Jones making it 5-0 midway through the 2nd period, Nolan completing her hat-trick in the last 10 minutes.
FAWNL South East Division One
10 wins from 10 now in South East Division One for Crawley Wasps Ladies as they continue their excellent season with a flurry of late goals claim the 3 points at home to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A close contest Leyton Orient doing well the sides tied at 0-0 going into the half-time interval. The deadlock broken 10 minutes into the 2nd half with Kemina Webber firing Crawley into the lead. The advantage didn’t last long however with Leyton Orient back on level terms just 4 minutes later Lisa Holmback making it 1-1. The game heading into the final 10 minutes could this be the game Crawley drop points for the 1st time this season… a strong end to the game from the home side with two quick-fire goals from Naomi Cole and Rachel Palmer putting the 3-1 up, Jenny Drury adding a 4th goal in stoppage time to see Crawley keep on their winning run.
Ipswich Town Women were hosting Cambridge United WFC on Sunday in South East Division One both sides involved in the jostle for position in the middle of the table. Captain Cassie Craddock firing Ipswich into the lead midway through the first half scoring from a long range free-kick. A 2nd goal for the hosts added on the stroke of half-time with Toni-Anne Wayne sending the ball home. The visitors coming back to get themselves a point from the game with a quickfire double, Becky Shephard’s ball into the area sliced into the back of the Ipswich net for an own goal. Shephard blasting the ball into the back to the net from the top of the area 5 minutes later to see Cambridge level with 12 minutes left to play. Ciera Flatt coming on late on to make her debut for Ipswich having joined from Acle United Women. 2-2 the final score.
A scheduled County Cup weekend across the country with most competitions into the latter stages plenty of sides competing in the FAWNL for silverware, that saw a limited fixtures list across the Southern Premier & South East Division One this Sunday.
Just the two matches taking place in the Southern Premier Division, 3rd placed Watford Ladies making the trip to the South West to play Plymouth Argyle Ladies. A good start for the visitors with Adekite Fatuga-Dada stealing in to fire Watford into the lead inside the opening quarter hour. Half an hour played and Plymouth’s Rebecca Dandridge was brought down into the box, a penalty awarded. Captain Katie Middleton levelling the scores from the spot. The hosts going on to get themselves into a 2-1 lead with a couple of minutes left on the clock in the 1st half, Mollie Taylor scoring.
Plymouth extending their lead going 3-1 up with 13 minutes gone in the 2nd period Jessie Jones getting the goal. Watford pushing for a reply it came too late for them to take anything from the game with Leanne Bell making it 3-2 in the 88th minute. A very welcome victory for Plymouth ending a losing streak of 7 games that stretches back to the beginning of November. Watford missing out on the opportunity to try and put pressure on the leading pair.
Oxford United Ladies had new signing Gemma Sims making her debut as they played host to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday. Oxford taking the lead in the 15th minute with Ellie Noble scoring. QPR finding a quick reply levelling the scores less than 10 minutes later with Stephanie Anes scoring her 1st of the season from a 28 yard free-kick. Oxford retaking the lead edging a close first half in the 39th minute with Emily Allen finding the target.
The 2nd half a different story with QPR disappointed losing heavily in the closing 15 minutes. Allen scoring her 2nd of the match in the 67th minute to extend Oxford’s advantage, a 4th goal quickly followed with Evie Gane celebrating the goal. Into the last 15 and Oxford were awarded a penalty, Allen stepping up to complete her hat-trick from the spot making her Oxford’s top scorer with 7 goals for all of 4 minutes with Florence Fyfe getting herself on the scoresheet to make it 6-1 and claim her 7th too of the campaign. Madeleine Robertson completed a 7-1 victory for Oxford scoring in the final minute.
FAWNL South East Division One
Same story in FAWNL South East Division One, several sides involved in crucial county cup games there were just the two games taking place in the league on Sunday. Actonians Ladies taking full advantage win a convincing win away from home to climb up to 3rd place in the table and move to within just 2 points of 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. A trip to Suffolk on Sunday to play Ipswich Town Ladies, Natalie Richardson playing her last game for Ipswich captaining the side.
Actonians taking an early lead in the match with Carla Williams putting the visitors 1-0 inside 10 minutes. few chances followed Actonians taking a 1-0 lead into the 2nd half Ipswich changing formation in an effort to find a reply it was Actonians who got the crucial 2nd goal midway through the 2nd half, Williams doubling the lead with her 9th of the season. Alessandra Barreca rarely not amongst the goals this Sunday no exception as she put her mark on the game in the final 15 minutes scoring a hat-trick the 3rd goal deep into stoppage time, her 18th of the season to see Actonians win 5-0.
The other match played at the weekend in South East Division One involving the sides 11th & 10th. Denham United Ladies 11th in need of the points, Norwich City Ladies 10th 4 points ahead would rejoin the cluster of sides in mid-table jostling for position with a victory themselves. Aimee Durrant scoring from a free-kick to hand Norwich the lead in the first half held the advantage at the break. Rosie George heading in to double the lead in the 2nd half. A crucial goal with Denham pulling a goal back through Lauren Cox, the Norfolk side winning 2-1 and climbing 2 places up into 8th as a result just a point behind East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women who are their next opponents under the lights at Plantation Park on February 13th.
Two matches outstanding in the FAWNL Cup played this Sunday. A place in the last 8 of the competition up for grabs. The top two in the Southern Premier Division drawn together with leaders, Chichester City Ladies hosting title rivals Coventry United Ladies in the 3rd Round. A physical encounter Coventry held the narrow advantage at half-time, Natasha Merritt heading the visitors into the lead in the 39th minute. Coventry doubling their lead early in the 2nd half with Amber Hughes breaking through on goal to score. Chichester creating opportunities had a player advantage for the final 20 minutes of the game with Merritt shown a 2nd yellow sent off. 10 player Coventry held out though to win the game 2-0 to reach the quarter finals where they will face South East Division One leaders, Crawley Wasps Ladies.
Crawley were also in FAWNL Cup action this weekend, having beaten Coventry United Ladies just last Sunday in the FA Women’s Cup, were making the trip South West to player higher league opposition once again, their opponents, Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Crawley holding a slender 0-1 lead at the break with a goal from Sian Heather the difference between the sides. Substitute Kemina Webber making an immediate impact doubling the visitors lead in the 2nd period. Plymouth mounting a late comeback to force the game into extra-time, closing in on the last 10 minutes a goal from Kayley Lane saw the hosts pull it back to 2-1 then late into stoppage time a goal from a free-kick by captain Katie Middleton saw them level the tie.
More drama in extra-time with Crawley retaking the lead early on Webber netting her 2nd goal of the game. Plymouth coming back once again to level the scores a few minutes later Leah Burridge making it 3-3. Faye Rabson scoring a great solo effort saw Crawley take the lead once more, no come back for Plymouth this time with the visitors adding a 5th goal to settle the game Webber completing her hat-trick to see Crawley into the quarter finals with a 5-3 victory.
The draw for the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup and Plate competitions made soon after, the games to be played Sunday 10th February are listed below:-
FAWNL Cup Quarter Finals
Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Stoke City Ladies
Huddersfield Town Ladies v Blackburn Rovers Ladies
Coventry United Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies
Loughborough Foxes Women v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
FAWNL Plate Quarter Finals
Barnsley FC Ladies v West Bromich Albion Women
Liverpool Marshalls Feds Women v Middlesborough Women
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Keynsham Town Ladies
Stevenage Ladies v Gillingham Ladies
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with the top two involved in the FAWNL Cup it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Watford Ladies to close the gap as they travelled to Wales to take on 5th placed Cardiff City Ladies. Never an easy place to go Cardiff were looking for a 3rd straight league victory themselves, took the lead in the 20th minute Cori Williams scoring from the penalty spot after Grace Horrell was brought down inside the box. Successfully defending their lead Cardiff holding a player advantage for the final 22 minutes with Watford’s Georgie Edwards red carded.
Gillingham Ladies picked up a valuable 3 points on Sunday to pull them further clear of the bottom two in the table the gap nine points now. Were at home taking on Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Breon Grant putting Gillingham into the lead in the 20th minute scoring her 7th goal of the campaign. Alice Bussey doubling the hosts lead with 3 minutes left in the 1st half with her 7th of the season. A 2-0 lead going into the 2nd half Gillingham kept a clean sheet to earn the 3 points.
Portsmouth FC Women started 2019 with a win in the Southern Premier Division ending a run of 3 straight league defeats, bringing in new players, they welcomed back an old face this weekend with Shannon Albuery returning in loan from Yeovil Town Ladies. Were at home this Sunday taking on Essex side, C&K Basildon Ladies bottom of the table. Eilidh Currie putting Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half. 1-0 at half-time Jade Bradley struck just past the hour to double Portsmouth’s lead and see the game won 2-1 Portsmouth climbing back to 7th in the table.
FAWNL South East Division One
Crawley Wasps Ladies have a strong lead at the top of FAWNL South East Division One their squad with a 100% winning record since promotion to the league. Fellow promoted side Billericay Town Ladies likewise have been strong building a squad that has seen them push Crawley and take a firm grip on 2nd spot. Below it is very tight little separating the sides 3rd to 7th, with anyone capable of going on a run and moving up the table.
AFC Wimbledon doing just that held 3rd spot on goal difference going into the weekend travelling to a side in need of the points themselves, Cambridge United WFC. A lack of league games towards the end of 2018 the cup dominating had seen Cambridge slip to 3rd bottom, games in hand however a positive run would place them right amongst the battle for places above. Wimbledon coming off the back of a great win in the FA Women’s Cup started the game the stronger had Cambridge penned in their own half for the majority of the game creating opportunities a dogged defensive display from the hosts had very few attackers themselves against the run of play however it was Cambridge who took the lead in the 35th minute with a well worked goal. A throw high on the left into the box held up well by Mollie Coupar moving to the top of the area cut the ball back to captain Kelley Blanchflower peeling into space right of goal she squaring the ball across the face of goal Jade Bell bursting clear to smash the ball into goalkeeper Kelly Edie the ball popping up favourably for Bell to follow up an put it over the line Cambridge leading 1-0 at half-time.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower with Wimbledon’s, Rebecca Sargent
A completely different game 2nd half with Cambridge making a positive start attacking Wimbledon got themselves a 2nd goal early on, Coupar with involved again a good run into the box from the left fizzing a cross into the six yard box Blanchflower timing her run to perfection meeting the ball smashing it into the back of the net. An open game from then on Wimbledon remaining positive searching for a reply, Cambridge clearing the ball up to Coupar running in behind good strength shown as she was pushed wide of goal struck a shot across the keeper and into the bottom corner to make it 3-0. Savannah Smith saving to keep the visitors from scoring up the other end the 3 points easing any worries of getting dragged into the battle at the bottom Cambridge joining the tail end of the tussle in the middle of the table.
Billericay Town Ladies are 4 points clear of the sides in pursuit of them in 2nd. Maintained that gap with a strong home performance against 2nd bottom side Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Jay Blackie netting twice moves onto 10 for the season since joining the Essex side in the summer. There was a brace too for Esme Lancaster, with Sophie Vale on target for her 1st goal for Billericay’s 1st team this season. Danica Dougal scoring too from a long range free-kick, Billericay running out 6-0 winners.
Leyton Orient WFC climb above Wimbledon into 3rd in the South East Division One table. At home this Sunday taking on bottom side Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking the lead from an own goal midway through the 1st half Sophie Le Marchand’s shot striking the post rolling along the goal face unfortunately finding the back of the net. Leyton Orient pressing well doubled the lead in 1st half stoppage time Chloe McNee with an ambitious shot from distance scoring. A 3rd goal needed with Luton pushing for a reply was added in the 70th minute with Camila Pescatore scoring her 1st goal for the club.
Also moving above Wimbledon into 5th place in the FAWNL South East Division One table are Actonians Ladies. Were at home playing Stevenage Ladies. Actonians taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes Alessandra Barreca heading the ball home from a corner. Stevenage found a quick reply equalising 5 minutes later with Shona Chitate making it 1-1. Actonians creating opportunities, retook the lead late in the 1st half awarded a penalty Barreca stepped up to score her 2nd of the game. A 2-1 lead at half-time Actonians kept Stevenage from getting any control as they calved out further chances extending the lead in the 57th minute Mariko Eagles on target with the goal. Substitute, Melissa Jung with a long range effort striking to make it 4-1 to Actonians. Barreca scoring her 3rd to complete a hat-trick in the final 5 minutes to see the game won 5-1.
Norwich City Ladies were at home this Sunday in league action against Enfield Town Ladies. Aimee Durrant putting Norwich into an early lead firing home in the 11th minute. Almost half an hour gone and Enfield levelled the scores with Danielle Smith getting the goal. The scores level at the break it was Norwich who struck early in the 2nd half to retake the lead Jodie Drake making it 2-1. That the score late into the game Enfield pressing finding a late goal to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match to earn a point Lily Bruno the scorer her 1st for the club making just her 2nd appearance.
