Category Archives: FAWNL South East Division One

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Sunday 13th January

FAWNL South East Division One

The football action this Sunday on Women’s Football East from the FA Women’s National League, Cambridge United WFC v AFC Wimbledon Ladies in South East Division One.

The two promoted sides Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies getting off to a blistering start, to lead the way Billericay with 5 straight wins to start life at the higher level, Crawley Wasps have yet to drop a point 9 wins from 9 whilst continuing on in the cup competitions. A 5 point lead at the top for Crawley over 2nd placed Billericay, a further 4 point gap to the chasing pack where it is very tight just 3 points separating 3rd to 7th.

Cambridge United WFC would dearly love to be amongst that mid-table cluster but instead find themselves looking nervously over their shoulders 3rd from bottom, they are in need of the league points. Have played less matches than everyone else in the league, largely due to involvement in various cup competitions that have actually seen them play just 3 league matches since the end of September, that coupled with postponements and the sides around them getting games in and picking up points pushing them down the table now into 2019 league points are the priority. Win those games and they are back amongst the mid-table battle.

AFC Wimbledon are the side leading the chasing pack in South East Division One currently in 3rd spot. Finished runners-up in the league last season, leading for the majority before Milton Keynes Dons Ladies winning their games in hand eventually overhauled them to win the title. A slower start this time around, it has been the nature of the league this season that any team getting a run together can propel themselves up the table. Wimbledon doing just that at to climb up to 3rd.

Are enjoying success in both the FAWNL Cup and FA Women’s Cup. Beating higher league sides to progress in the FA Women’s Cup, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women in the 2nd Round and just last Sunday a 3-0 away win against Hull City Ladies of the Northern Premier to reach the 4th Round of the competition for the 1st time in their history where they have been drawn at home to FAWSL side Bristol City Women.

Wimbledon are also into the quarter finals of the FAWNL Cup beating today’s opponents Cambridge United WFC at home 2-1 to advance. The two sides sharing a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season.

Mildenhall Town FC, Cambridge United WFC’s home ground. A sloping pitch from one goalmouth to the other as I’ve mentioned before. A wide pitch plenty of space to exploit. Another gloomy day cloudy, a light drizzle in the air prior to kick-off. The bar open, hot drinks and food available.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abigail Davies, Holly Northfield, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Jemma Moore, Amy Howlett, Vicky Neal, Jade Bell, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett & Charlotte Crisp.

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

It’s Cambridge to get the 1st half underway attacking up the slope wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks Wimbledon lined up opposite all in blue. The visitors quick to press the ball from the start won in midfield played back to Sarah Wentworth the central defender sending it long, striker and captain Caroline Bisson spinning in behind, goalkeeper Savannah Smith out to the ball early kicking it clear for Cambridge.

Wimbledon busy in the opening minutes of the game pressing looking to move the ball quickly and spread play, Rebecca Sargent putting herself about in midfield, sets up the first opportunity winning the ball in the middle spreading play out to the left wing Katie Stanley coming inside bringing the ball down shapes to shoot 30 yards out the attempt looping up into the air drops wide of the Cambridge goal.

Cambridge struggling to get anything going in the final 3rd in the early stages win a throw high on the right, captain Kelley Blanchflower with a driving run with the ball into the box, Hannah Billingham clearing the ball for the visitors. Wimbledon have Cambridge penned in their own half Sargent with some powerful runs supported by Becky Mclaren-Johnson and Kelly Highman, the ball fed into the left channel, Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming across to defend put the ball out for a throw.

Wimbledon come again building from the ball the defence on the halfway line the pass into Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins left side she attempts a through ball to unleash Bisson, well intercepted by Jemma Moore in the centre of the Cambridge defence. Wimbledon win a corner on the right side the delivery in towards the near post headed on across the area by Billingham looping down at the far post Wentworth stretching for it can’t direct her effort on target behind for a goalkick.

Is developing into a scrappy battle in midfield both sides press the ball pinging back and forth it suddenly squeezes through in behind Bisson latching onto it slides into a shot before Burt can close her down 20 yards out the ball is knocked up and whistles past the top right corner. All Wimbledon have Cambridge pushed back a free-kick won wide right Billingham over the ball a great effort fired in bounces through the six yard box no one able to provide a telling touch.

Billingham is hurt moment later looking to seeing the ball out for a throw Mollie Coupar pressing her for Cambridge sliding in the resulting tangle of legs seeing the Wimbledon defender clatter into the metal railings surrounding the pitch, a blow to the head that sees play stopped for a lengthy period as Billingham receives treatment that ultimately leaves her sporting a unfashionable blue head bandage, thankfully able to return to the action. Cambridge pressure the throw in the ball coming into the area, Edie Kelly taking it cleanly as Coupar closes her down.

Blanchflower has her hands full with Sargent restricting her attacking runs, picking up possession in a favourable position drives forwards sends the ball put to Jade Bell up on the left wing her cross long to Coupar at the far post getting up looks to header it down for Blanchflower the Wimbledon defence crowding her out.

Sargent strong in the challenge wins the ball nips in to get hold of the ball 25 yards out turning well central spaces opens up in front of her she goes for the shot catching the ball well fired over the crossbar. Frustration creeping in from both sides, Amy Howlett fouling Sargent. The free-kick 40 yards out ambitious from Billingham but she sends the ball in towards goal drops kindly for Smith to claim in her mid-riff.

Cambridge are conceding free-kicks the next alot closer to goal, Billingham on it once again 25 out right of the area, the shot narrowly over the crossbar. Another free-kick soon after central Bisson over this one Billingham the target far post the ball flighted in Cambridge manage to deal with the threat. Stanley with a good bit of control as the ball is played into her moving down the left her touch taking it in field 30 yard out turns well and shoots the ball wide of the right post.

GOAL! The visitors have dominated possession but against that it’s the hosts that take the lead. It is a well worked goal nevertheless, Blanchflower getting forwards a throw won high on the left the ball played up into the box dropping into Coupar, shielded by Billingham holds it up well pushed out to the top of the area turns well sending the pass into Blanchflower peeling clear into space inside the box wide right her squared ball across the face of goal, Bell rushing in Kelly blocking her initial effort, the ball skips up wide of the grounded keeper, Bell alert sending it on into the goal 1-0.

Wimbledon have had all the possession are straight back on the attack, Howlett isn’t making any friends with another foul on Sargent. The free-kick wide left, Bisson to delivery a great ball up to the far post Billingham forwards not put off heading the ball whatsoever a stooping header back across the top of the six yard box Sargent there central leaning back catches the ball agonisingly up over the crossbar.

Wimbledon press forwards right side Sargent with a good ball Bisson ready to spring in behind, closing in on the area, Moore sliding in makes a great tackle to take the ball away. Howlett is booked for persistent fouling. Wimbledon remain the sharper to the ball have Cambridge with their backs to the wall at time but despite that the young defence are standing firm. Coupar working hard up front pressing the ball presenting an opportunity on the right for Bell to put a cross in from the byline cut out at the near post.

Abigail Davies wins the ball for Cambridge right side on for Shephard a slight hestitation before putting the cross on allows Billingham the chance to put a foot in win the ball. Sargent plays the pass on for Heasman sending the ball on she releases Bisson in behind, closing in on the box, Moore shows great pace to get back on her make the challenge.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Wimbledon have dominated the play in the first half, seeing the majority of the ball pushing Cambridge back, creating opportunities, could be leading themselves however at half-time they find themselves trailing 1-0. Cambridge have worked hard had their backs to the wall, their defence under pressure has coped well, getting up the other end a well worked move seeing them take the lead. An interesting 2nd half looms.

Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower with Wimbledon’s Rebecca Sargent

No changes for either side at the break the light starting to fade the floodlights are on Cambridge attacking down the slope 2nd half as Wimbledon get the game back underway. Cambridge with more intent inside the Wimbledon half right from the off, Neal adjudged to have fouled Highman on halfway. The home side launch an attack the ball flicked on by Neal to Blanchflower breaking forwards her ball down the right channel for Coupar to chase, Billingham across to stretch and cut it out for Wimbledon.

GOAL!  Cambridge’s bright start to the 2nd half sees them extend their lead have the ball on the left side building down the wing the ball played into Coupar head down she carries it on into the area before firing in a cross along the six yard box, Blanchflower timing her run perfectly ahead of the Wimbledon defence to smash the ball into the back of the net 2-0.

Sargent continues her work ethic in the middle for Wimbledon getting hold of the ball fires a pass up the right channel for Heasman getting forwards she cuts her low cross back towards the D, Stanley closing in on it can’t keep her shot down as she sends her 1st time effort over. Is a bruising encounter between two sides that give as good as they get, largely in good spirit…sort of…

Wimbledon’s Katie Stanley

A busy afternoon for the officials too Wimbledon with a free’kick wide right Bisson over it lifted into the area Billingham escapes her runner near side from close range wide of goal can only find the side netting. Cambridge frustrating their opponents now enjoying more of the ball, Coupar scrapping away up front bundled to the ground.

Mclaren-Johnson pressurising for Wimbledon central with the ball at her feet has support going forwards from Heasman, her cross squared to Stanley cutting inside from the left shoots 20 yards out, Smith diving to her left pushing the ball away from goal. 20 minutes gone in the 2nd period and Wimbledon make a change, Hannah Baptiste coming on for Highman. Cambridge with a throw left inside the Wimbledon half into Coupar 25 yards out a touch taking it inside before curling a shot over the bar.

An open game now a complete contrast to the first half Cambridge coming on more now competitve remains a scrappy affair Holly Northfield preventing a crossing opportunity on the right for Wimbledon. Russell up the other end across as Bell tries to put Coupar away. Wimbledon attack Billingham with a great forwards ball into the area controlled well by Bisson, Cambridge win in the ball sent long…

GOAL! With the game more open and Wimbledon committing more players forwards Cambridge capitalise to score a 3rd goal Coupar getting on the scoresheet after being involved in the hosts opening 2 goals. The ball played long up to her peeling away into the right channel ahead of Billingham, Wentworth comes across pushes Coupar wide right of goal as she enters the box the young striker strong on the ball gets a shot away from the angle firing the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner 3-0.

Neal with a firm tackle to deny Wimbledon building an attack through the middle. Moore with good defensive work at the back as the visitors attack through the right. Coupar tries to burst on with the ball Sargent back to defend against her for Wimbledon. Wimbledon make a 2nd change Jenny Nagle on for Heasman on the right side. A free-kick wide right for the visitors Bisson with the ball up into the area eventually cleared by Burt. Nagle attacking right Northfield sliding in to prevent the cross the ball out for a throw.

Mollie Coupar holding the ball up for Cambridge United WFC

Both sides make a change, Emma Jenkins coming on for Blanchflower for Cambridge. Sian Wylie replacing Hoesli-Atkins for Wimbledon with a little over 15 minutes left on the clock. Wimbledon continue to attack looking to pull a goal back that pressure bringing a corner, Stanley to take it from the right a long delivery to the far post Cambridge winning the header a determination set in to keep a clean sheet.

Smith with a point blank save going to ground in front of Bisson as the striker gets onto the end of a diagonal ball inside the six yard box fired in from the right. Wimbledon pressure late on in the game pushing players on into the last 8 minutes. Cambridge make a 2nd change Carrie Bennett coming on replacing Coupar late on.

Bell doing some vital work in defence late on for the hosts doubling up with Northfield as Wimbledon look to double up on the full backs. Winning the ball tries to release Shephard up front, Wentworth regaining possession for Wimbledon. Moore tackles Stanley a throw deep in the right, the ball kept up top a swerving cross in under the crossbar taken high by Smith.

Little time left now, Wimbledon’s frustrations mount a decision going against them protests voiced results in Stanley and Mclaren-Johnson yellow carded for dissent. A late late corner for Wimbledon right side an inswinging delivery pushed down and away by the jumping Smith falling to Wylie the defended stretching for it sends it across to the far post, cleared Wimbledon appeal for a penalty, nothing doing the final whistle blown soon after.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies

A terrific result for Cambridge and 3 valuable points won. Most definitely a game of two halves. Wimbledon dominating the 1st half playing the ball quickly, spreading play and pushing their opponents back, chances created but not scoring paid the price as Cambridge took the lead against the run of play. A different story 2nd half Cambridge battling to defend 1st half buoyed by their goal came out on the front foot 2nd half scoring early. Took their chances well, a competitive tussle, expected nothing less, just adds to the excitement in what is undoubtedly a competitve league, with alot of talented players. Any side can beat the other on their day. That’s why I love it so much.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

On to this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A few performances worthy of note. Firstly for Wimbledon, Rebecca Sargent was a driving force in the midfield, putting herself about getting forwards too with some timely runs and good passing especially first half. For Cambridge, Jemma Moore the newest face to line-up in defence played well making some great and well timed tackles the back-line on the whole learning alot from today’s game. Jade Bell too using her experience to great advantage opening the scoring for Cambridge and vital in defence late on. Overall though today’s award goes to attacker Mollie Coupar put in a great shift up top for the hosts prepared to get stuck in a willing learner, good hold-up play involved in both the opening goals and great individual skill and strength to score the 3rd.

Another good advert for women’s football in the FAWNL, scrappy yes but played by two committed sides, a good watch. My thanks to everyone for their help today always appreciated.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 06/01/19

Sunday 6th January

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

With it being an FA Cup weekend there was a limited programme of fixtures across the rest of the FAWNL to start the year 5 games across both the Southern Premier and South East Division One.

Chichester City Ladies clinch a narrow home win at the weekend to see them return to the summit of the Southern Premier Division. Began 2019 at home taking on Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The hosts starting the game well it was Plymouth however who were to take the early lead Rebecca Dandridge finding the back of the net against the run of play. Chichester getting the scores back level with 10 minutes of the 1st half left Helen Ogle scoring to see the sides level at half-time. The 2nd half a close contest two sides battling, Ogle striking the crossbar with a 30 yard strike on 65 minutes, 5 minutes later she had her 2nd of the game and what would prove to be the winning goal firing home from a free-kick 30 yards out.

A positive result too for Portsmouth FC Women at the start of 2019 with a home win against Queens Park Ranger Women on Sunday a debut for new signing Hannah Haughton and Becki Bath. The sides goalless at half-time once again it was a narrow loss for QPR struggling at the bottom of the table, Rachel Panting scoring from the penalty spot to put Portsmouth into the lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half, a welcome win putting them back into contention with the sides clustered in mid-table.

FAWNL South East Division One

With the top 3 sides in South East Division One all involved in the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday it was a chance for 4th placed Leyton Orient WFC to take over 3rd position in the table as they welcomed Stevenage Ladies in the league. A five game unbeaten run for Leyton Orient they took the lead early in the match Chanel Richards with the goal on 8 minutes. Stevenage responded well drawing level just 4 minutes later Nicole Emmings scoring for the Hertfordshire side. Both sides creating good opportunities it remained level at the break. Leyton Orient getting themselves back into the lead 2nd half with Hayley Barton scoring. Chances continued for both the game into the final 10 minutes and Stevenage drew level once more Ashleigh Deacon making it 2-2. The winning goal coming in the final minute going the way of the visitors Emmings finding space to shot and squeeze the ball home.

Stevenage Ladies, Nicole Emmings

Actonians Ladies were 5th in the South East Division One table going into the new year showing form at the end of 2018 to move them up the table 3rd position a possibility for themselves as they played host to Cambridge United Women who had dropped down the table a run of successive cup matches to end 2018 seeing them fall down the league, in need of points as they look to pull away from the danger zone. Actonians coming close in the first half from a corner Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith tipping an effort onto her bar. Goalless at half-time it was the visitors without a few first team regulars who broke the deadlock Mollie Coupar beating the keeper to make it 1-0. Actonians levelling the scores with 15 minutes left though Carla Williams firing the ball home. Smith with another crucial save late on to ensure the sides shared the points.

It was a share of the points too between Denham United Ladies and Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday, always competitive when the two meet a usual point for Denham 2nd bottom as they held Enfield in 6th to a goalless draw.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 16/12/18

Sunday 16th December

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

  The last edition of The Round-Up in 2018. Several sides already finished until the New Year, for much of the rest this their final game of the year. Storm Deirdre blowing in across the country on Saturday bringing wind and rain saw a large chunk of those fixtures wiped out to, so sadly it’s a reduced Round-Up across most of the region to bring you.

  The FAWNL suffering with over half the scheduled fixtures gone. Just the one fixtures surviving in the Southern Premier Division. In Wales, Cardiff City Ladies welcoming Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies this Sunday. A big win for the hosts seeing them end the year up two places into 5th in the table still with games in hand on all the sides above them.

  Grace Horrell opening the scoring for Cardiff firing them into the lead in the 15th minute. Kylie Nolan on the scoresheet too quickly doubling Cardiff’s advantage scoring 3 minutes later. Moving into the last 15 minutes of the 1st half 3 goals inside 6 minutes put Cardiff in full control of the game, Ffion Morgan making it 3-0, Chelsea Jumratie on target too along with Jordan Guard both finding the back of the net for the 1st time this season. Cori Williams adding a 6th goal for Cardiff early in the 2nd half. Jasmine Simpson made the final score 7-0 with 15 minutes left. A big win for Cardiff, a heavy loss to end the year for Basildon who switch places with QPR Women at the bottom of the table as a result.

FAWNL South East Division One 

  The fixture list heavily affected in FAWNL South East Division one too with 3 of the 5 scheduled games falling foul to the weather. That left two games and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies in County Cup action it was an opportunity for second placed Billericay Town Ladies to close the gap as the Essex side side welcomed Norwich City Ladies to the AGP Arena on Sunday. 

  It was a close contest with a single goal settling the game the result going in favour of Billericay. Paris Smith’s goals were a huge part of Billericay’s title winning season last time out in the ERWFL. 24 goals from just 13 appearances. Games few and far between this season, just her 3rd appearance of the season, Smith was on target scoring her first goal of the season to score what would be the winning goal for the hosts who finish 2018 4 points clear of the chasing pack.

  One side in that pack looking to chase down the leading pair are 3rd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies. They were at home on Sunday welcoming Actonians Ladies. The visitors in good form themselves recently pushing for a spot in the top half of the table themselves. A close opening 30 minutes it was the hosts who opened the scoring in the 32nd minute Caroline Bisson put through to round the keeper and score for Wimbledon. Into added time in the 1st half and Actonians grabbed an equalising goal through Naomi Graham to see the sides level at the break.

  The visiting side getting into the lead straight after the restart with Jessica Byrne scoring to make it 2-1. Past the hour Byrne found the back of the net for her 2nd of the game giving Actonians a two goal cushion. Byrne’s first goals of the campaign. Top scorer Alessandra Barreca getting in on the goal scoring hitting a brace in the 70th & 75th minute to put Actonians 5-1 up. 13 goals for the season now for the striker. Bernice Tully on with 15 minutes left to play getting late goal for Wimbledon as they suffer a 5-2 defeat. The 3 points lifting Actonians up into 5th position in the table 2 points back on 3rd placed Wimbledon and Leyton Orient WFC in 4th.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 02/12/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 2nd December

FAWNL Plate

With the sides from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division entering the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday there was a severely reduced fixture list elsewhere with just the two matches taking place, one league game aswell a a single tie from the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Plate.

  A place in the quarter finals up for the taking, Ipswich Town Women were hosting Stevenage Ladies for the 2nd successive Sunday. The first in the league Ipswich edging a very close game winning by a single goal scored by captain Kerry Stimson. Meeting this Sunday in the FAWNL Plate the 2 sides enjoyed another close encounter drawing 0-0 at half-time, it was Ipswich who were to take the lead going 1-0 up on the hour with Natasha Thomas firing the ball home. It looked as if a single goal was going to be enough again as Stevenage pressed for the equaliser the game heading into stoppage time up popped Ashleigh Deacon to score a last gasp leveller to force the tie into extra-time. The visitors taking the lead early in the extra period of play, Ellie Searle getting the goal to make it 2-1, would prove to be the winning goal as Stevenage booked their place in the last 8 of the Plate competition.

FAWNL South East Division One

One league game this Sunday in FAWNL South East Division One, mid-table Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd bottom, Denham United Ladies. Alessandra Barreca scoring her 10th goal of the season on the half hour for Actonians a flurry of goals was to follow at the end of the first half half to see the hosts take an iron grip of the game, Barreca netting her 2nd in the 38th minute, goal from Sara Lopez Ezzahiri and Enya Collins on the 44th & 45th minute seeing Actonians get 4 on the board. Sharon Odofin making her first start of the season scored her 1st goal too 8 minutes into the 2nd half, Actonians going on to win the game 5-1. Holly Nicholls with the goal for Denham. The win for Actonians, seeing them pull away from the sides at the bottom of the table and close the gap to the sides above in contention now for an assault on the top half.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 25/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 25th November

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

Coventry United Ladies return to the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with a convincing win at home extending their unbeaten run  to 13 games. Coventry were hosting Plymouth Argyle Ladies on the final Sunday of November. Got off to the perfect start racing into a 3-0 lead inside the opening 15 minutes. Shannon O’Brien giving Coventry the lead in the 5th minute, quickly followed by a goal from Natalie Haigh lobbing the keeper to make it 2-0. Amber Hughes also finding the back of the net in the 11th minute. Another goal added late in the first half with defender Rosie McDonnell heading in. McDonnell adding her 2nd just before the whistle to see Coventry leading 5-0 at the break.

   Plymouth came out fighting 2nd half pulling a goal back through Helen Bleazard but that was as good as it got for the visitors as Coventry continued to push forwards, Amy Wathan heading in a Lois Jefferies cross on the hour to make it 6-1. McDonnell going on to complete a hat-trick as the game entered the last quarter hour. Jefferies getting in on the goal action to make it 8-1 in the 80th minute. A penalty awarded in stoppage time scored by Chemise Austin to wrap up a 9-1 victory.

  Loughborough Foxes Women in 4th position on the Southern Premier Division were looking to make it 5 straight wins in the league as they travelled down to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies, a goal from Chloe Young just past the half hour seeing the visitors holding a narrow lead at half-time.  Sammy Brooker getting Gillingham back on level terms 7 minutes after the restart. Loughborough responding straight away to get the ball forwards and retake the lead a minute later, Charlotte Broad from close range making it 2-1. Closing in on the final 10 minutes of the match and Gillingham equalised for the 2nd time in the match Breon Grant with a terrific strike from outside the box to make it 2-2, that the final score the points shared.

   Portsmouth FC Women were on their travels this Sunday into Wales to play Cardiff City Ladies in the league. Few chances in the opening 20 minutes it was Cardiff who were to take the lead just past the half hour, Nia Rees letting fly from distance finding the top corner. 1-0 at half-time, Portsmouth started well 2nd half, Cardiff doubling their lead against the run of play Jasmine Simpson shooting from the edge of the area to make it 2-0. Into the final 10 minutes and Portsmouth pulled it back to 2-1 Danielle Rowe scoring her first league goal for the club it wasn’t enough however as Cardiff held on to the 2-1 lead to claim the 3 points.

   Milton Keynes Dons Ladies recorded a 4th win in the Southern Premier Division to consolidate their 8th position in the league following promotion. Were in Essex at the weekend taking on C&K Basildon Ladies. Charley Clarke putting the visitors into the lead in the 32nd minute. C&K Basildon levelling the scores just before half-time Holly Turner with a wonder strike making it 1-1. Milton Keynes Dons getting back into the lead in the 2nd half Clarke with her 2nd of the game proving to be the difference as the visitors ran out 2-1 winners.   

FAWNL South East Division One

A ninth straight win following promotion to the FAWNL South East Division One sees Crawley Wasps Ladies open up an 8 point lead at the top of the table. At home on Sunday their opponents were Denham United Ladies. Crawley getting off to a good start Kemina Webber making it 1-0 in the 6th minute. Sian Heather doubling the lead in the 20th minute. A brace from Emma Plewa shortly after seeing the hosts take a healthy lead. 4-0 up at half-time a further flurry of goals with 20 minutes left saw them extend their lead, 3 goals in 3 minutes, Rachel Palmer making it 5-0, Webber then netting her 2nd of the game a goal from Megan Stow making it 7-0. Heather adding her 2nd of the game with 7 minutes left Jenny Dury scoring her first goal of the season in the final 5 minutes to wrap up a 9-0 win.

  AFC Wimbledon Ladies move up into 3rd in South East Division One winning away to previous 3rd placed side Enfield Town Ladies on Sunday. Hannah Baptiste with her first goal of the season putting Wimbledon into the lead in the 20th minute. A narrow lead at the break, Katie Stanley introduced to the action 2nd half scoring in the 56th minute to put Wimbledon 2-0 up, Jenny Nagle making things more comfortable adding a 3rd goal on the hour securing a 3-0 win for Wimbledon that sees them move to within a point of 2nd place Billericay Town Ladies.

   Also joining AFC Wimbledon on 18 points after the weekends results are Leyton Orient WFC. A trip up to Norfolk for the London club on Sunday taking on Norwich City Ladies. Goalless at the half-time interval that was how the game remained with the final 15 minutes approaching, Sophie Le Marchand finding the back of the net for the 5th time this season winning the game 1-0 for the visitors.

Leyton Orient WFC’s, Sophie Le Marchand

  A single goal late in the 2nd half also the difference in the final match to bring you from South East Division One this Sunday with Ipswich Town Women travelling to Hertfordshire to play Stevenage Ladies. A close game  a physical contest could have gone either way, Kerry Stimson captaining Ipswich fed in down the line cutting inside and shooting scoring for first goal for the club and the winning goal keeping them firmly in touch with the sides above in 6th spot. 

 

The Round-Up – FAWNL 11/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 11th November

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Chichester City Ladies continue to lead the FAWNL Southern Premier Division winning at home on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side holding the advantage at the half-time interval with Holly Turner’s goal on 13 minutes the difference. Chichester coming back well with a strong 2nd half performance to keep their winning run going. Cherelle Khassel coming on at the start of the 2nd half making her 50th appearance for the club and celebrated by scoring a 16 minute hat-trick, levelling the scores in the 47th minute put Chichester into the lead 6 minutes later an own goal extending the lead on the hour before the 4th and Khassel’s 3rd was put into the back of the net in the 62nd minute. Courtney Clarke scoring for C&K Basildon late in the game, Chichester with 6 wins in a row now in league and cup.

  2nd placed Coventry Unite Ladies were back in action this Sunday after two weekends without a fixture in that time have seen their lead at the top of the Southern Premier Division taken by Chichester. Were away this Sunday up against Queens Park Rangers Women. The London side taking the lead in the 13th minute Jo Wilson scoring for the 4th successive match. The lead didn’t last long Coventry back on level terms just 2 minutes later Marie Gauntlett with the goal. 4 minutes later Coventry had the lead Shannon O’Brien scoring to make it 2-1. A narrow lead for Coventry at half time the visitors stepping it up 2nd half Jade Brook made it 3-1 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Two quick fire goals from Lois Jefferies and Amber Hughes midway through the 2nd half extending Coventry’s lead to 5-1. Substitute, Amy Wathan hitting a double in the last 15 minutes to seal a 7-1 win.

    3rd placed Watford Ladies were playing host on Sunday to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. The visitors getting the lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Leah Littlechild scoring from a corner kick. 17-year-old Ellie Gough making her 1st start for Milton Keynes Dons celebrated the occasion with a goal as she rounded the keeper inside the box to put Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 on the half hour. A 2-0 advantage at half-time, Milton Keynes Dons kept Watford at bay 2nd half as the home side sought to avoid a 3rd straight defeat in league and cup, Leah Cudone getting forwards in the 84th minute securing the 3 points with a strike from outside the box to make it 3-0. The win moving Milton Keynes Dons up to 8th and into double figures in their debut season playing in the Southern Premier Division.

   3 straight league wins sees another promoted side Loughborough Foxes Women rise up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table. Were at home this Sunday up against Portsmouth FC Women. Rebecca Knight heading home from a corner to put Loughborough into the lead midway through the 1st half. The hosts lead short-lived however as Portsmouth responded straight away getting forwards Rachel Panting getting onto the end of a cross to make it 1-1. A close contest the winning goal coming in the final 15 minutes a goalmouth scramble resulting in the ball ending up in the back of the net an own goal from Portsmouth seeing Loughborough claim the 3 points winning 2-1.

  2-1 was also the winning score between Oxford United Women and Plymouth Argyle Ladies. Oxford starting the day in 6th place in the Southern Premier Division at home to 4th placed Plymouth the hosts taking the lead in the 11th minute. Held onto the 1-0 advantage going into the half-time break. Plymouth hitting back early on in the 2nd half to level the scores, captain Katie Middleton making it 1-1 in the 48th minute. That remained the score up until the 86th minute, Oxford awarded a penalty, Georgia Timms cool from the spot getting the ball past the keeper (just) to secure the win Oxford up to 4th, Plymouth down to 6th after the weekends results.

FAWNL South East Division One

  Just the one league match played in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday with 3rd placed Enfield Town Ladies travelling to 6th placed Leyton Orient WFC. An own goal favouring the hosts as Leyton Orient went ahead in the 12th minute. Two strike late in the first half from Tara O’Halloran and Hayley Barton making the half-time lead comfortable at 3-0. Chanel Richards scoring within 2 minutes of the restart consolidating the home sides advance a 5th goal added on the hour, Richards with her 2nd of the game, securing a 5-0 win for Leyton Orient to extend their unbeaten league run to 5 games takes them up a place into 5th the top half of the table very tight.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 04/11/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 4th Nov

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

New leaders of the FAWNL Southern Division as Chichester City Ladies move to the top of the pile with a home victory taking advantage of Coventry United Ladies not being involved in league action for the 2nd successive weekend. Chichester City capitalising closed the gap to the leaders last Sunday with a 1-0 home win over Cardiff City Ladies go above them with their 2nd successive 3 point haul on home soil this Sunday. Were hosting Gillingham FC Ladies, Cherelle Khassel scoring the only goal of the 1st half just past the half hour to see Chichester City with the narrow lead at half-time. Molly Clark with her 8th strike of the season firing the hosts into a 2-0 2 minutes after the restart. The 2-0 win taking Chichester City to the top 2 points ahead of Coventry.

   A great 2nd half for Loughborough Foxes Women saw them win for the successive game in league and cup 6 points from their last 2 matches in the Southern Premier Division seeing them climb up to fifth in the table 2 points behind 4th placed Plymouth Argyle Ladies who were their opponents this Sunday. Plymouth at home this weekend haven’t lost a game since the end of August taking them up into 4th spot, chances in the 1st half to open the scoring denied by the post and a disallowed goal the sides drawing a blank at half-time. Rebecca McGrother breaking the deadlock 7 minutes into the 2nd half. Chloe Young then doubling Loughborough’s lead 4 minutes later heading in from a corner. McGrother hitting a screamer to find the back of the net made it 3-0 with 67 minutes gone. Her 3rd goal another quality strike to complete her hat-trick in the final 10 minutes securing a 4-0 win for Loughborough.

  Kylie Nolan scored in the opening minute for Cardiff City Ladies on Sunday as they took on Oxford United Women at home. Defending the goal for much of the game Oxford getting back on level terms late on the game entering the final 15 minutes. Georgia Timms with the strike to make it 1-1 and see the sides take a share of the points, enough to keep Oxford in the top half of the Southern Premier Division table.

FAWNL South East Division One

  The top 2 met in FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday, 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies hosting leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies. Both promoted to the league this season have had fantastic starts a 2 point lead for Crawley who have a 100% win rate after 7 games played. A close 1st half saw the sides drawing 0-0. The stale mate broken 15 minutes into the 2nd half. Emma Plewa played through on goal to score her 7th goal of the season. Naomi Cole doubling Crawley’s lead with the game entering the final 10 minutes scoring for the 8th time this season. The 2-0 victory seeing Crawley open up a 5 point lead on their nearest rivals and keep their 100% record going.

   A great week for Enfield Town Ladies, very tight in the middle of the South East Division One, Enfield were in action on Tuesday night, the visitors taking on Luton Town Ladies as the Bedfordshire side got to play again at Kenilworth Road. 1st half goals from, Sasha Kelly and Nuala McKevitt sealing a 2-0 win for Enfield lifting them up into 3rd position. Built on that result away from home this Sunday too capping off a good 6 days with 6 points. Away to Actonians Ladies. It was goalless between the sides at the half-time interval. Katherine Long giving Enfield the lead on 58 minutes her 1st goal of the season. Sasha Kelly extending Enfield’s lead with 20 minutes left, her 4th goal of the season to secure the 3 points.

Enfield Town Ladies, Katherine Long

  A 3rd successive league win for AFC Wimbledon Ladies sees them consolidate 4th spot in South East Division One. Their latest 3 point haul coming at home on Sunday up against Norwich City Ladies, who faced delays on their journey down to Carshalton Athletic FC. The hosts starting brightly getting themselves into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes, Jenny Nagle scoring in the 5th minute, Caroline Bisson getting Wimbledon’s 2nd just 4 minutes later. Kathryn Stanley pulling a goal back for Norwich just before the half hour mark, Wimbledon responding straight away to restore their 2 goal lead Nagle with her 2nd of the game adding Wimbledon’s 3rd .3-1 the lead at half-time Katie Stanley striking from a free-kick early in the 2nd half put Wimbledon into a strong position, 4-1 up Norwich got a goal back with 20 minutes left Reeanna Cook scoring. The early goals the difference as Wimbledon went on to win 4-2.

  A last gasp equaliser saw Leyton Orient WFC grab a point at home on Sunday, in South East Division One were hosting Ipswich Town Women who were looking to extend their winning run to 5 games. A fantastic strike from Zoe Cossey firing Ipswich into an early lead scoring on 10 minutes the difference between the sides at half-time. Paige Wakefield finding the back of the net from a corner doubling the visitors lead, 3 minutes into the 2nd half. 2-0 up with 10 minutes left Leyton Orient were to mount a late comeback Egle Trezzi pulling the score back to 2-1 in the 3rd minute, Hayley Barton levelling the scores in the dying seconds to rescue a point. 5th and 6th both sides on 12 points.

 Stevenage Ladies move onto 10 points level with 7th placed Actonians Ladies to move further away from the bottom sides winning away from home on Sunday at Denham United Ladies. Ashleigh Deacon opening the scoring for Stevenage midway through the 1st half, her goal quickly followed by another with Amy Makewell on target with her 5th goal of the season. 2-0 up at half-time, Denham pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half, Kayleigh Currivan on the scoresheet but the hosts were unable to breach the Stevenage defence for a 2nd time, the visitors winning 2-1.

  A tough week for Luton Town Ladies at the foot of South East Division One a heavy defeat away to leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies last Sunday were back in action again on Tuesday evening laying at Kenilworth Road suffered a 2-0 defeat to Enfield Town Ladies. Wee on the road again this Sunday taking on Cambridge United Women who with only 5 points on the board themselves were looking to pull away from the bottom. A single goal enough to secure the win for Cambridge coming from the penalty spot, new signing Becky Shepherd scoring her 3rd goal of the season.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 21/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 21st October

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A county cup weekend this Sunday meaning clubs from the FAWNL and ERWFL had fixtures elsewhere, leaving the fixture list across the league light. 6 games taking place across both the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One aswell as the Plate competition.

    A big win at the top of the Southern Premier Division as leaders, Coventry United Ladies open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table beating their closest rivals Watford FC Ladies or the 2nd successive Sunday. In the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup a week ago Coventry securing a 3-2 win away from home against Watford to progress. Were at home this Sunday facing Watford again this time in the league . Amber Hughes striking from outside the box putting Coventry into the lead scoring midway through the 2nd half, the home side awarded a penalty with Jade brook fouled inside the box. Chenise Austin scoring from the spot kick to double Coventry’s lead. 2-0 at half-time the hosts extending the lead just past the hour Marie Gauntlett getting on the scoresheet scoring from a free-kick. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Amy Wathan played through on goal sending the ball past the keeper to see Coventry secure a 4-0 win. 10 wins in a row now for Coventry.

   Watford down a place to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that result with Chichester City Ladies fine start to the continued on Sunday a 6th league win of the season seeing them up to 2nd on goal difference. Were away to Queens Park Rangers Women. A devastating 10 minute spell in the 1st half seeing the visitors storm into a 3 goal lead. Hollie Wride scoring the opening goal on 12 minutes, Jade Widdows doubling the advantage just 4 minutes later. Cherelle Khassel making it 3 in the 22nd minute. QPR pulling it back to 3-1 just before half-time Jo Wilson netting the goal. QPR fought well in the 2nd half as the Chichester City defence held firm, Chontele Lawrence getting it back to 3-2 for the hosts the goal in stoppage time Chichester City holding on for the 3 points.

FAWNL Plate

Two 2nd Round ties played in the FAWNL Plate this Sunday. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies progressing with an away victory over South West Division One side Brislington Ladies. Postponed due to the wet weather last Sunday the Southern premier Division side took an early lead in the match with Leah Littlechild scoring in the 5th minute. Leah Cudone making it 2-0 7 minutes later. Alice Hughes putting MK Dons 3-0 in the 35th minute to see them comfortable with a 3-0 lead at the break. No more goals 2nd half with MK Dons defending their lead Brislington unable to find a reply.

Portsmouth FC Women were waiting to see who their opponents would be in the 2nd Round of the Plate with Keynsham Town Ladies playing fellow South West Division One opponents Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies in the 1st Round. Keynsham Town 2nd in the league advancing to set up a home tie with Portsmouth. The sides level at 1-1 at half-time Kerry Bartlett’s 39th minute equaliser cancelling out Katie James 11th minute goal for Portsmouth. 1-1 it remained heading into stoppage time, Ellie Curson finding the back of the net to see Keynsham Town win the match and knock Portsmouth out.

The draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Plate, as well as the Cup made yesterday both draws listed below:- Ties scheduled to be played Sun 9th December.

FAWNL Cup 3rd Round

Huddersfield Town Ladies v Nottingham Forest Ladies

Bolton Wanderers Ladies v Hull City Ladies

Blackburn Rovers Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies

Stoke City Ladies v Leeds United Ladies

AFC Wimbledon Ladies v Cambridge United Women or Leyton Orient WFC

Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women

Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

Southampton Women or Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

FAWNL Plate 3rd Round

Liverpool Feds Women v Chester Le Street Ladies

The New Saints Ladies or Bradford City Women v Barnsley Ladies

Morecambe Ladies v Middlesborough Women FC

Sporting Khalsa Women v West Bromich Albion Women

Keynsham Town Ladies v Maidenhead United Ladies

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Bedworth United Ladies

Ipswich Town Women v Stevenage Ladies

Gillingham FC Ladies v Chesham United Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

Two games in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday and with leaders Crawley Wasps Ladies involved in County Cup action 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies took full advantage winning at home to go top of the table. Their opponents Enfield Town Ladies. It was the 5th placed side that opened the scoring however with Molly Peters running clear to score in the 17th minute. Billericay pulling the scores back level with 6 minutes left on the 1st half Zoe Rushen scoring from close range. Enfield responding well getting themselves back into the lead 3 minutes later, Jodie Southby with her 1st goal of the season putting the visitors 2-1 up. Still time for more drama in the 1st half as less than a minute later Billericay were back level, Rushen again making the near post run and beating the keeper to score. No sooner had the hosts levelled the scores for the 2nd time they went on to take the lead, Rushen on target to complete her hat-trick and see Billericay end the 1st half 3-2 up. No further goals coming 2nd half Billericay returning to the top of the South East Division One table.

A hat-trick for Zoe Rushen securing the win for Billericay Town Ladies

    AFC Wimbledon Ladies were away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, Rebecca Sargent’s scoring in the 20th minute the difference between the sides at the half-time interval. Stevenage coming back to level the scores 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Jodie Whitford-Stark scoring her 1st Stevenage goal. A screamer from Katie Stanley in the 69th minute restoring AFC Wimbledon’s lead the visitors holding on to claim the 3 points and climb up a couple of places to 7th in the South East Division One table.

The Round-Up – FAWNL 07/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 7th October

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

A couple of matches taking place in both the Southern Premier and South East Division One this Sunday. Plymouth Argyle Ladies having a great start to the life in the Southern Premier Division this time around were up to 4th in the table. Travelled to Hampshire at the weekend to take on Portsmouth FC Women. The hosts starting well it was Plymouth who were to open the scoring Jessie Jones an England U21 International nipping in to win the ball at the back scoring for Plymouth in the 15th minute. A diving header from Kayley Lane doubling the visitors advantage 7 minutes before half-time. Portsmouth fought in the 2nd half searching for the goal to get them back into the game Plymouth keeping them out getting the 3rd goal to seal the win 5 minutes from time Jones with her 2nd of the match. Victory lifting the newly promoted side up into 3rd spot a 5th straight win in all competitions as well as their 1st clean sheet of the season.

At the other end of the Southern Premier Division the bottom two were playing each other even this early in the season it had a six point feel to it for C&K Basildon Ladies and Queens Park Rangers Women both adrift at the foot of the table with 1 point each. The home side taking the lead Courtney Clarke scoring the opening goal. QPR coming back to equalise in the 17th minute, Jo Wilson back with the club getting her 1st goal of the season to make it 1-1. Basildon retaking the lead to hold a 2-1 advantage at the break Katie Whitehead getting the goal.

  A strong start to the 2nd half from QPR as the visitors got it back to 2-2 4 minutes into the restart Rochelle Shakes netting the goal. 5 minutes later QPR were in front, Whitney Locke finding the back of the net scoring to make it 3-2. Into the closing stages of the game QPR heading for their 1st win of the season, Basildon attacking in the last minute the ball into the area a goalmouth scramble the ball turned home to make it 3-3, Gemma Abela credited with the goal her 1st of the season that sees both sides take a point from the game.

FAWNL South East Division One

 With most of the other FAWNL South East Division One sides distracted by the FA Women’s Cup there were 2 matches taking place in the league with both home sides taking full advantage to climb the table. Following a difficult beginning to the season Ipswich Town Women are now up to 3rd in the table. Coming into the match off the back of a good midweek home win over previously unbeaten Billericay Town Ladies, Ipswich were hosting Denham United Ladies this Sunday. The Suffolk side opening the scoring in the 17th minute Lindsey Cooper heading the ball in from a corner kick. Further chances following in the 1st period Ipswich, it was 1-0 at half-time. 

   Zoe Cossey returning for Ipswich after injury giving the hosts a 2-0 lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half. Natasha Thomas scoring another 5 minutes later to put Ipswich in control. Into the last 10 minutes Thomas got her 2nd of the game to wrap up a 4-0 win for Ipswich to propel them up the table.

   It was a late show at home for Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday that sees them climb the South East Division One table too up into 4th spot with a home win over Actonians Ladies. Hayley Barton putting Leyton Orient into the lead with 20 minutes gone in the 1st half. Actonians came back to level things up Carla Williams on target with a goal in the 35th minute. The sides drawing 1-1 at half-time Actonians went on to take the lead 5 minutes into the 2nd half Jennifer Laidlaw with her 3rd goal of the season making it 2-1. A lead the visitors were to hold onto right up until the final 5 minutes of the match Barton getting Leyton Orient back level making it 2-2 in the 85th minute the home side going on to score a last minute winner 2nd half substitute Tara O’Halloran scoring to see Leyton Orient clinch the 3-2 victory.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 3rd October

FAWNL South East Division One

A midweek trip East along the A47 this evening to watch some league action from FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC.

  A late reversal of the fixture with Norwich City Ladies scheduled to travel to play Cambridge United WFC. The pitch at Mildenhall Town FC unavailable the league asking Norwich if they could host they agreed. A good distance between Norwich and Cambridge for a game under the lights. Both sides looking to get their league campaigns going both with just the single win to date. All very tight in FAWNL South East Division One early in the season the two promoted sides, Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies getting off to a flying start below there are just 4 points separating the sides placed 4th to 12th. Actonians Ladies in 3rd spot proving that if you can get a run going you can quickly climb the table.

   Norwich City Ladies started the season with a 5-1 defeat to Enfield Town Ladies, before collecting a point in a 2-2 draw with Denham United Ladies. Changes behind the scenes 1st team coach Grant Palmer adding to the coaching team the club fielding a new Development side this season. Heavy defeats in the cup and league followed, their only league win of the season a memorable one away to East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Ladies. Although they have progressed in the FA Women’s Cup with a big win, League points haven’t come losing 2-1 at home to Stevenage Ladies last Sunday. After a couple of lethargic seasons fighting at the wrong end of the table Norwich are rebuilding aiming for better results. 

  A promising start to the season for Cambridge United WFC, bringing in several new faces to the squad to away trips down to the capital yielding 4 points. A goalless draw in their previous midweek fixture at The Abbey Stadium against Stevenage Ladies earning them a 5th league point of the season. Does tell the whole story however as they have enjoyed success in both the league cup and FA Women’s Cup the latter just this past Sunday a 6-0 win at home to Harlow Town Ladies. Travel to Norfolk tonight missing a few players unable to get to the rearranged game on time due to work commitments.

  The league interesting this season has the feel that any team on their day can beat the other.  The venue for this evenings fixture, Norwich United FC’s, Plantation Park. It’s a big pitch very wide, under the lights looks even bigger. A bar overlooking one end of the pitch a small seated stand down one side. A mild evening at the start of October, cloud cover but no rain forecast.

Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Alice Parker, Laura Thacker, Sasha Diston (C), Kate Parsons, Ellie Smith, Millie Daviss, Reeanna Cook, Aimee Durrant, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Tigi Robson, Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Emily Moerkerk & Rosie George.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Fran Gough, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Vicky Neal, Faith Hewitt, Becky Shephard, Kelley Blanchflower (C) & Steph Gale. Subs – Holly Northfield & Charlotte Crisp.

Norwich to have the kick-off in the 1st half wearing yellow shirts, green shorts and yellow and green socks. Cambridge wearing their white away shirts with black shorts and socks. Cambridge press Norwich for the ball straight away get i forwards into Steph Gale in attack, play halted as she commits a foul trying to turn in behind her marker. Both sides snapping at the ball a little disjointed at the start neither side making progress into the final 3rd. Norwich spreading play out to the left wing players drawn across a cross flung in towards the near post Emma Jenkins getting her head on the ball to clear for Cambridge.

Norwich starting to build momentum come forwards Chelsea Garrett receiving the ball just over halfway Aimee Durrant on the right wing looking to get in behind bursts forwards, Cambridge centre back Kayleigh-Anne Burt reading Garrett’s intention backing up giving herself a better angle to intercept the intended pass. A free-kick awarded to Norwich inside the Cambridge half, midfielder Miller Daviss over the ball her delivery lifted into the area attacked the header taking it behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good delivery into the box a high ball dropping into the six yard box, goalkeeper Liz Pamplin getting her gloves on the ball knocking it down the defence able to launch clear.

   Energetic from Norwich at the start of the game pressing forwards have their opponents on the back foot. Jenkins lunging in to tackle Natasha Snelling as the attacker gives chase to a ball played up into the right channel, the left back conceding a corner. Cambridge look to release Becky Shephard on the left wing trues to link up with Gale leading the line, captain Sasha Diston defending for Norwich. Daviss with a great forwards pass has Garrett interested central 20 yards out manages to get in behind her marker through into the area but is halted by the offside flag. 

    Norwich win a corner over on the left another good delivery angling in under the crossbar, Pamplin with another vital save getting her gloves to the ball, knocked down into the congested box, a shot is blocked at close range from Laura Thacker. Appeals for handball from Norwich but the officials not interested. Snelling takes on a shot from distance 30 yards out lets loose a shot, the ball on target is catch low by Pamplin.

 GOAL! Norwich capitalise on their good start to the match taking the lead in the 17th minute the goal coming from another corner on the left the high delivery falling towards the penalty spot is attacked by Norwich’s Kate Parsons getting up well timing her headed connects well the ball looping up and dropping over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

   Cambridge get on the attack straight from the restart play broken up in the middle the ball played up to Shephard coming in field a chase for the ball goalkeeper Hope Armstrong coming to close the attacker down the ball struck against her trickles in behind Shephard keeping up the chase the Norwich defence recovering and getting to the goal bound ball to hook clear before she can apply another touch. 

  A free-kick wide left for Norwich as they build on the wing, Durrant and Snelling over the ball 30 yards out is driven in low towards goal Pamplin adjusting her body getting behind it pushes the ball out towards the top of the area, picking it up Garrett right of the D, looks to shoot send the ball in towards the far post across the keeper her strike off cue racing wide is met by a Norwich player the ball turned goalwards lacking power safely in Pamplin’s hands. 

  Parsons defending as Cambridge enjoy a little it of possession on the right wing Amy Howlett playing full back getting forwards to support captain Kelley Blanchflower. Norwich moving the ball well some intricate short triangles in midfield getting players forwards. Fran Gough getting in front of Garrett to defend for Cambridge as Ellie Smith brings the ball forwards. Cambridge struggling to get anything going in attack the passes just not sticking. Vicky Neal winning the ball from Daviss up to Gale closed down quickly. The visitors getting a little frustrated. A free-kick wide right the ball in towards the top of the area held up but not allowed to turn Norwich marking well. Howlett doing well defending against Snelling on the wing as she and Garrett looking to play a one two get Snelling in behind.

    GOAL! Norwich double their lead with the game passing the half hour. Attacking on the left players breaking forwards from midfield overloading the box the cross fired in across the top of the area into Ellie Smith controls the ball before striking a low shot past the keeper into the goal at the near post 2-0. Smith’s first goal for Norwich.

   Cambridge come close to finding a reply a free-kick wide on the left cleared back out to Shephard pressing down the wig sends an inviting cross racing through the Norwich six yard box, no-one gambling central picked up on the far side brought in close to goal the shot goalwards defended in front of goal. Alice Parker coming on to support Durrant the pair combining Garrett looks to spin in behind, Burt close to her making the tackle prevents her making progress into the box.

  Norwich finishing the 1st half strongly Durrant with the ball at her feet 20 yards out driving with it across the Cambridge box on for Snelling far side her shot sliced behind by Burt for the corner. The set-piece defended. Diston misjudging the bounce of the ball as it is played out from the back nevertheless sets up a great attack as it strikes her face, looping on for Durrant on quickly to Garrett, in behind Pamplin coming to close her down, Garrett knocking it past her looking to follow it on into the goal beyond, Gough getting back does enough to get on her shoulder she the striker’s touch take the ball wide for the goalkick.

   Pamplin saving at her near post coming out to claim the ball low and Garrett slides in for it getting in behind the defence. Faith Hewitt getting forwards as Gabrielle Whitehurst robs Reeanna Cook in midfield tries to get Blanchflower away on the left Thacker, with Parsons supporting preventing the final ball being delivered. Gough stepping out of the back line for Cambridge intercepting the ball up for Shephard central play spread to Blanchflower on the right, Thacker closing her down wins the challenge.

  Cambridge win a throw-in wide right in a deep position play getting drawn across to that side a cross is worked into the area running across the top of the six yard box Shephard free far post, Parker dealing with the threat clearing the ball for a corner. The delivery long to the far post headed wide for the goalkick. A crunching 50/50 in the middle of the park no prisoners taken between Parsons and Neal. The ball just won’t stick for Cambridge, Whitehurst bringing Durrant down as she attacks right side 20 yards out. Taking the set-piece Durrant sends it long to the far post met by a runner turned towards the near post Pamplin well positioned to make the save. 

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 2-0 Cambridge United WFC

   A good 1st half from Norwich, by far the better side attacking well in numbers at times taking an early lead, adding to the lead looking comfortable for their 2-0 lead. A frustrating 1st 45 from Cambridge players out of position haven’t been able to make the ball stick up front get bodies forwards themselves find a way in behind Norwich who have been solid at the back. 2-0 always an interesting lead Norwich look comfortable for it and a much better 2nd period from the visitors will be needed if they wish to get back into the game.

  Positional changes for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half a switch of flanks for Blanchflower and Shephard no operating on the right wing as they take the kick-off. Paying the ball forwards a hand ball is spotted as Norwich look to win the ball, unfairly, Cambridge have the free-kick 30 or so yards out left of the box Jenkins floating the delivery in towards the far post area Armstrong coming for it makes the catch. Cambridge showing more energy at the start of the 2nd half determined to press Norwich on the all higher up the pitch. Gale fouled on halfway trying to hold the ball up.

   Good work from Gale back to goal holds the ball up Hewitt coming on looks to play her in, Smith getting back to close her down regain possession for Norwich. Neal getting hold of the ball in the middle long for Gale peeling away into space on the left taking the ball up the pitch sends the cross back in across the front of the area Whitehurst brought down in a dangerous position. 22 yards out Jenkins on it is encouraged to have a go gets the ball past the wall but not Armstrong the keeper well positioned beyond.

   Are a few physical challenges both benches showing frustration at some decisions being made, one questioned by the Cambridge management as Howlett is sent sprawling on the right the free-kick played in towards the near post is over Diston, Gale beyond caught a little unaware expecting the defender to get there can’t get off the ground quick enough to meet it. Cook drives forwards with the ball played on for Garrett a dink over the top, Gough doing well getting her head on the ball defending for Cambridge.

  A good start to the 2nd half for Cambridge give away a free-kick wide on the right as Durrant attacks. The delivery defended back with Durrant played inside to Garrett top of the area right side strikes the ball well low in across the keeper, Pamplin down low to her right diving to push the ball away. Norwich make the 1st change of the match, Snelling the player taken off, on comes Rosie George. 

Hewitt coming on with the ball for Cambridge sets up an attack playing the ball out wide right to Shephard, taking the ball to the byline, attacked at the near post, both Neal and Blanchflower closing in Armstrong dong well in between the to claim the ball ends up on the deck, the decision going against Neal, clearly frustrated at being shown a yellow card.

Garrett coming for the ball has Smith running beyond her plays the ball on making a run to the left getting the return pass striking from outside the box the ball racing wide across the Cambridge goal. Armstrong rushing out of her box clears as Gale tries to get to a ball put on by Hewitt for Cambridge. Hewitt finding Gale on the left deep play switched to the right Shephard supported well by Howlett the cross in defended well by Parsons cleared central Cambridge have it back the pass out to Blanchflower on the left her 20 yards strike too high goes out for the goalkick.

The referee getting alot of stick from both sides frustrated at a lack of consistency, challenges coming the decisions being questioned. Cambridge much improved 2nd half, Norwich sitting more have the 2 goal cushion, the visitors needing to find a reply. Hewitt is brought down in a clumsy challenge left side. The ball flighted up into the area a defender missing it drops for Neal stooping low into the header can only drop the ball wide of the far post. Parker getting across in intercept inside the six yard box as Shephard plays the ball in from the right.

Burt is cautioned making a rash tackle on Garrett outside the area a free-kick in a dangerous position for Norwich, Parsons over it has a go for goal on target lacking the pace to trouble Pamplin. Parker is brought off by Norwich, Tigi Robson introduced to the action. The benches continuing to be be unhappy with the officials. Burt getting across to deal with Durrant as Garrett looks to find her on the right.

  Jenkins winning the ball brings it forwards on the left on for Blanchflower, her diagonal ball long to the right picking out Shephard shoots Parsons blocking once then again as Shephard collects the rebound. George gets played in behind by Garrett left of the D shoots, Pamplin holding onto the ball. Norwich make their final change Jodie Drake on for Cook. A double change for Cambridge, Blanchflower having picked up a knock along with Gale coming off. On come Holly Northfield and Charlotte Crisp. Neal and Shephard up into the area the ball played in the knock down back to Whitehurst her shot charged down by Parsons.

  Cambridge having a frustrating night, aggrieved at decisions being made adding to their woes the final ball not coming off, Norwich working hard to defend their lead. Parsons and Diston solid at the back, Garrett always available finding pockets of space ready for any counter attack. Daviss picking up possession on early for Garrett, one on one with the keeper coming to meet her edge of the area the ball past her Gough getting back to put the striker off as they race for goal.  

  Into the final minutes Cambridge cannot find that telling goal put pressure on Norwich risk getting caught on the counter have to commit player forwards. Whitehurst finding Shephard left side her cross driven in cleared by Parsons back to Shephard the 2nd cross deeper Drake heading clear at the far post for Norwich. 

 GOAL! The home side break getting the ball up the park quickly on the left the cross put across the face of the area finding Durrant unmarked shifts and shoots wrong footing Pamplin the ball going past her at the near post 3-0 the 3 points assured with so little time left on the clock. 

  Neal has a strike at goal from distance the attempt over the crossbar. Armstrong dropping a high cross delivered from the right but can pounce on the ball before it is attacked. Hewitt driving on with the ball central on for Whitehurst spreads play right for Howlett her cross in claimed at the near post confidently by Armstrong with Neal closing her down. Crisp getting the ball up into Neal she turns in an attempt to get into the box Parsons getting in the tackle. 

Full time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Cambridge United WFC

  Norwich get the win their 2nd of the season both coming under the lights, climb all the way up to 7th position as a result. By far the better side 1st half capitalising with 2 goals. Happy to defend more 2nd half were solid coping with the pressure Cambridge applied getting the 3rd goal at the death. A bad night at the office for Cambridge one to chalk off on the back foot from the start the 1st half not good at all improved 2nd half and had they found a reply may well have gone on to get something from the game. Both are at home in 3rd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, Norwich take on Enfield, Cambridge up against Stevenage Ladies.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Ultimately I’d narrowed this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match down to two contenders by the time the game had finished but not having to choose right away it’s always good to take a look back at the notes still a hard choice Chelsea Garrett doing very well leading the line for Norwich up front creating chances and drawing players out of position, bringing others into good shooting positions. At the back however Kate Parsons was a rock very experienced has been out for Norwich for quite awhile with injury now back she is looking sharp played well putting in the blocks keeping Cambridge’s chances inside the area to a minimum. The Player of the Match goes to the central defender.

   Always enjoy a game under the lights not necessarily getting up early to write the report afterwards though. My thanks to both teams for helping me out with the teams always appreciated.