Five straight league wins for Coventry United Ladies now takes them back to the top of the FAWNL Southern Division. Unbeaten in 7 at the start of the season. At home on Sunday taking on C&K Basildon Ladies, goals from Amber Hughes and Jade Brook seeing Coventry start strongly 2 up after 10 minutes. C&K Basildon pulling a goal back before the half-time interval. Brook with her 2nd of the game restoring Coventry’s 2 goal cushion on the hour. Amy Wathan scoring in the last 10 minutes to see Coventry record a 4-1 win to move top ahead of Watford FC Ladies.
Losing to Coventry a fortnight ago Chichester City Ladies unbeaten start to the season came to an end last weeks fixture at home to Cardiff City Ladies falling foul of the weather, Chichester were on the road this weekend back in league action taking on Loughborough Foxes Women. A tight game the sides contesting a goalless first half, Chichester striking early 2nd half Molly Clark on 47 minutes scoring what would prove to be the winning goal, Chichester in 3rd keep the pressure on the leading pair.
Plymouth Argyle Ladies impressive start to the season continues the South West Division One Champions now up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division table after they won for the 4th successive game. Were on the road taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Helen Bleazard with a 1st half double handing Plymouth a 2-0 half-time advantage, they didn’t have it all their own way 2nd half, QPR fighting back with 2 quickfire goals to level the scores, new signing Whitney Locke scoring her 1st goal for the club on 65 minutes, Rochelle Shakes also newly arrived making it 2-2, 4 minutes later. Plymouth coming back to retake the lead and go on to win the game Zoe Cunningham finding the back of the net to make it 3-2 with 7 minutes left.
A 2nd league win in the Southern Premier Division for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as the newly promoted side winning South East Division One start to find their feet in the league. At home on Sunday at Stadium MK up against Gillingham FC Ladies. Another close contest 0-0 for 75 minutes, the winning goal was struck home by Kim Farrow for Milton Keynes Dons in the 76th minute to win them the 3 points moving them onto 7 points after 7 played.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Kim Farrow
FAWNL Cup
This weekend saw the 1st Round’s of the FAWNL Cup and Plate taking place, a handful of ties in both competitions with most handed a bye to the 2nd Round. Two 1st Round Cup matches featuring South East Division One sides, AFC Wimbledon Ladies were at home taking on Buckland Athletic Ladies from the South West Division One. Bernice Tully with her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon giving the hosts a 21st minute lead Laura Quinn-Low also scoring for the 1st time this season seeing AFC Wimbledon leading 2-0 at half-time. Jenny Nagle another scoring her 1st goal for AFC Wimbledon to put them 3 up midway through the 2nd half. Georgia Heasman in her 1st game back in Wimbledon colours adding a 4th goal with 5 minutes left.
Was a 7 goal thriller in the FAWNL Cup 1st Round tie on Sunday, South East Division One side, Enfield Town Ladies hosting, Southampton Women of South West Division One. Nuala McKevitt putting Enfield 1 up within 6 minutes of the start. Southampton coming back equalised through Kayleigh Tonks in the 22nd minute the visitors taking the lead late in the 1st half Natalie Bavister on target. 2-1 the lead for Southampton, Jane Yates gave them a 3-1 lead scoring 2 minutes into the 2nd period. Enfield’s turn to fightback, Sara Degooye pulling it back to 3-2 five minutes later. Molly Peters scoring to see Enfield level it at 3-3 with 15 minutes left. The winning goal coming 3 minutes from the end of normal play, Roxanne Lee-Stewart with Southampton’s 4th and winning goal.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Cup has been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-
Billericay Town Ladies v Chichester City Ladies
Cambridge United Women v Leyton Orient WFC
QPR Women v Loughborough Foxes Women
Oxford United Women v Crawley Wasps Ladies
Larkhall Athletic Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies
Southampton Women v Plymouth Argyle Ladies
Watford FC Ladies v Coventry United Ladies
FAWNL Plate
In the FAWNL Plate 1st Round, Southern Premier Division side, Portsmouth FC Women were away to Poole Town Ladies from South West Division One. The higher league side proving too strong, Katie James putting Portsmouth into the lead inside 10 minutes. Carla Perkins adding a 4 minute brace with Eilidh Currie making it 4-0 to Portsmouth midway through the 1st half. More goals coming for the visitors 2nd half, Rachel Panting striking early going on to complete a hat-trick. Hannah Geer also scoring with Perkins also adding a 3rd goal to complete her own hat-trick a 9-0 victory seeing Portsmouth progress.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the FAWNL Plate has also been made the ties featuring Southern Premier & South East Division One clubs listed below – ties scheduled to be played Sun 14th October :-
Maidenhead United Ladies v Denham United Ladies
Keynsham Town Ladies or Southampton Saints v Portsmouth FC Women
Brislington Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Actonians Ladies v Chesham United Ladies
Gillingham FC Ladies v Luton Town Ladies
Norwich City Ladies v Stevenage Ladies
Ipswich Town Women v C&K Basildon Ladies
FAWNL South East Division One
A thriller for the neutral at the top of South East Division One on Sunday with 3rd placed Actonians Ladies hosting 2nd placed Billericay Town Ladies. An early goal for Jennifer Laidlaw along with a goal for Sara Lopez-Ezzahiri for Actonians in the 1st half they found themselves trailing however with Billericay on target for 3 goals up the other end the visitors adding a 4th goal 2nd half, Actonians hit back to earn a point with Enya Collins and Carla Williams striking to see the game finish 4-4. Billericay’s 100% winning start coming to an end the point nevertheless enough to put the into top position with Crawley Wasps in cup action at the weekend.
Teams clustering below with just 2 points between 4th and 10th in the South East Division One table. Stevenage Ladies moving up into the top half of the table following their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday coming on the road away to Norwich City Ladies, goals from Shona Chitate and Ashleigh Deacon seeing Stevenage hold a 2-0 advantage at half-time. Norwich saw a penalty saved in the 2nd half before pulling a goal back with Laura Thacker making it 2-1. The visitors holding on for the 2-1 win.
A first league win of the season in South East Division One for bottom side Luton Town Ladies. At home on Sunday taking on Ipswich Town Ladies. The visitors taking the lead however Paige Wakefield putting Ipswich in front. Dionne Manning scoring a brace brought Luton back on level terms then gave them the lead. Jess McKay scoring to make in 3-1 and see Luton collect their 1st league points of the season.
New leaders at the top of the FAWNL Southern Premier Division after this weekends results. Coventry United Ladies coming out on top in the clash between the top two and only unbeaten sides in the league on Sunday. A brilliant start to the season for Chichester City Ladies 4 wins out of 4 including a 2-1 home success against local rivals Portsmouth FC Women in midweek were back at home this Sunday hosting Coventry United Ladies who themselves looking to defend an unbeaten start to their league campaign 3 successive wins after a goalless draw on the opening day.
Coventry coming into their top of the table clash with a 4-0 home win over early pacesetters Loughborough Foxes Women. Coventry opening the scoring through a Jade Brook strike in the 8th minute, Chichester responded straight away to get back on level terms Cherelle Khassel making it 1-1. Coventry edging the win in the 2nd half Brook netting again in what would prove to be the winning goal. The 2-1 result taking Coventry top, Chichester City tasting defeat for the 1st time this season.
Chichester City drop to 3rd in the Southern Premier Division table after the weekends results as Watford FC Ladies go 2nd on the back of 4 straight wins in all competitions. Needed a late winner to edge out QPR in midweek, 2-1 the final score. And it was a late show again to secure the 3 points again on Sunday away to Portsmouth FC Women. The hosts taking the lead in the 16th minute, Daisy McLachlan smashing the ball home. Katie O’Leary equalising for Watford just 5 minutes later the sides were all square at the break.
With 20 minutes left to play Portsmouth got themselves back into the lead Hannah Geer making it 2-1. Watford responded once again bringing on Anaisa Harney the substitute heading in visitors 2nd equaliser for her first goal for the club on 79 minutes, then Harney struck again to put Watford into the lead with 5 minutes left, Helen Ward scoring late on in midweek finding the back of the net in the 89th minute to secure the 3 points for Watford winning 4-2. 3 straight losses in the league now for Portsmouth after winning their opening 2 fixtures, Shannon Albuery leaving to join FAWSL side Yeovil Town Ladies.
Another side showing great form are Cardiff City Ladies moving up to 4th in the Southern Premier Division with a 4th straight win in all competitions. Were hosting Loughborough Foxes Women this Sunday, the visitors holding a 1-0 advantage at the break with Kate Lowder the player on target with the goal on 31 minutes. A strong finish to the game from Cardiff to come back and win, closing in on the final quarter hour Grace Horrell scored to level the scores, soon after Cardiff were in the lead a corner scramble resulting in an own goal. Kelly Issac making sure of the win getting on the scoresheet in the 88th minute. Loughborough hitting the post from a penalty kick in stoppage time. 3-1 Cardiff.
Goals galore at Elberton Villa FC between Plymouth Argyle Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies. A much needed point earned last Sunday, Basildon travelling down to the South West having lost at home to Gillingham in midweek. Plymouth not in action in midweek. Goals from Helen Bleazard and Kayley Lane seeing Plymouth leading 2-0 at half-time. The lead further extended in the 2nd half with Amber Pollock making it 3-0 on 64 minutes. Bleazard with her 2nd of the game scoring to make it 4-0 on 68. Basildon weren’t out of it though getting it back to 4-2 before conceding a penalty, captain Katie Middleton sending the ball past the keeper to make it 5-2. Time for Basildon to get a 3rd goal but they went home empty handed the 5-3 win taking Plymouth up to 5th in the table. A goal for Raquel Murray along with a double for Patricia Gomez the goalscorers for Basildon.
A mixed set of results for Oxford United Women, back to back losses in the league coming into this Sunday’s game including a 3-1 home loss to Milton Keynes Dons on Tuesday. Away to Gillingham FC Ladies this Sunday, Oxford recorded their biggest win of the season so far. Ellie Noble putting the visiting side 1-0 up on 23 minutes, Sophie Baker striking right on the stroke of half-time to give Oxford a 2-0 advantage. 3 more goals coming in the last 15 minutes Florence Fyfe a 2nd half substitute scoring to make it 3-0 on 77 minutes. Lauren Haynes was on target 4 minutes later to break up the 4th goal with Madelene Robertson also introduced in the 2nd half getting Oxford’s 5th goal in stoppage time.
Milton Keynes Dons Ladies finally got off the mark in the Southern Premier Division recording their 1st win at this level in midweek away to Oxford United Women. On the road again this Sunday taking on bottom side Queens Park Rangers Ladies. Not much in it 1st half Kerry Newman getting a goal just past the half hour to put Milton Keynes Dons into the lead. Going down to a late winner in midweek, QPR scored themselves late on this time to rescue a point their 1st of the season, Rochelle Shakes with her 1st goal for the club.
FAWNL South East Division One
The promoted sides keeping on winning in FAWNL South East Division One, 5 wins out of 5 for both Crawley Wasps Ladies and Billericay Town Ladies. Crawley Wasps out in front having scored 24 now in their 5 games a 5-2 win in midweek away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Crawley Wasps were away to Stevenage Ladies this Sunday who themselves earned a point in midweek drawing 1-1 at The Abbey Stadium with Cambridge United WFC. The goals continuing for Crawley Wasps at the weekend 4 in the first half from Sian Heather, Kemina Webber, Faye Rabson and Megan Stow to put the visitors 4-1 up at half-time. Stow struck her 2nd of the game early in the 2nd half with Suzy Davies and Naomi Cole both scoring in the final 15 minutes to secure a 7-2 win for Crawley Wasps. Nicole Emmings with both goals for Stevenage.
A much closer result at home for Billericay Town Ladies as the took on bottom side Luton Town Ladies still in search of their first points of the season. Lucy Jones and Samantha Pittuck with the goals for Billericay Town in a 2-1 with Dionne Manning finding the back of the net for Luton who came close to earning a point hitting the woodwork 3 times, a number of young players stepping up into their 1st team.
A complete turn around for Actonians Ladies 3 defeats to start the season in all competitions, they have now made it 3 wins from their last 3 in the league to climb up to 3rd in the South East Division One table. Fortune in front of goal turned around too having conceded 12 in their 1st 3 matches have since scored 13 in 3 whilst conceding just twice a 5-0 win away to Denham in midweek. This Sunday were at home hosting Norwich City Ladies who themselves were on a high having secured their 1st win of the season against all sides their East Anglian derby rivals Ipswich Town Women. Norwich scoring twice in the 1st half Natasha Snelling and captain Kate Parsons with the goals Parsons 1st since her lengthy lay off from injury. Actonians were in front at the break however scoring 3 times in the 1st half. 3-2 up the hosts had the better of the 2nd half adding a further two goals to record a 5-2 win. Alessandra Barreca netting a hat-trick moving her onto 8 goals already this season with Jennifer Laidlaw and Sara Lopez Ezzahiri both getting their 1st goals of the season.
Enfield Town Ladies are up to 4th in the South East Division One table coming out on top by the odd goal in 5 in the A10 derby between themselves and Cambridge United WFC. Is a long established rivalry between these two sides meaning form goes out the window whenever they meet. A narrow lead for Enfield at half-time with a late goal for Isabella Agus. Molly Peters set up by Agus scoring to make it 2-0 to Enfield, a chance to go 3-0 ahead from the penalty spot, Savannah Smith making the save for Cambridge off Nuala McKevitt. A free kick up the other end just outside the box in a dangerous position Amber Cantwell finding the back of the goal to make it 2-1. Cantwell striking from distance again to bring the scores level at 2-2. Enfield finding the winning goal with 7 minutes left on the clock Claire Ford from a corner heading in at the near post to seal a 3-2 win.
The points shared in the final two matches to bring you from South East Division One. Both losing in midweek Ipswich Town Women made the trip to Carshalton Athletic FC to play AFC Wimbledon Ladies on Sunday. Caroline Bisson with the shot scoring to put Wimbledon into the lead midway through the 2nd half, Ipswich responding well to the setback levelling the score just 4 minutes later the ball in the back of the net of a Wimbledon body from a Natalie Richardson free-kick. 1-1 at the break chances for both sides 2nd half but no more goals 1-1 it remained.
1-1 too between Denham United Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday but the visitors left it late to take home a point from the game after Rachel Keightley had given Denham the lead on 53 minutes. Rebecca Hirst introduced to the action from the bench on 80 minutes she netting her 1st goal of the season to earn 5th placed Leyton Orient a point.
Midweek action under the floodlights this Wednesday with a trip to The Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Stevenage Ladies in FAWNL South East Division One.
Cambridge United WFC missing out on the opportunity to play at The Abbey Stadium late last season get an early chance this time round to showcase their talents under the floodlights at the League Two ground. Women’s sides getting more opportunities to play at their respective men’s clubs than ever before.
4 games into the season and Cambridge United WFC have 4 points from 3 league games played, started the season well with a draw and a win away from home a good result in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup followed before they suffered their 1st loss of the season at the weekend going down to a stoppage time winner. The two promoted sides, Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies getting off to a flyer winning all of their games, Cambridge are amongst a cluster of sides below on 4 points looking to catch them.
Stevenage Ladies come in to tonight’s game at The Abbey Stadium on the back of 3 straight defeats in all competitions having won their opening match of the season. Like Cambridge are bedding in a few new signings with Mark Dicker taking up the reins as 1st team manager. As great an opportunity this is for Cambridge, their opponents should relish the chance too.
As you’d expect from a League club ground at the start of the season the pitch is immaculate, no excuses about bobbles tonight. Is a wide pitch so their will be plenty of space to exploit. The mainstand open, hot food and drink available with the Dion Dublin Bar also open. A pleasant evening dry and calm perfect weather for football.
Cambridge United starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Fran Gough, Amy Howlett, Kelly Bingham, Amber Cantwell, Becky Shephard, Vicky Neal & Kelley Blanchflower (C). Subs – Liz Pamplin, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Faith Hewitt, Mollie Coupar & Kirsten Burt.
It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the match underway kicking off 1st half, wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks, Stevenage lining up opposite wearing white shirt with red vertical striping along with red shirts and socks. A couple of strong challenges put in early on from Stevenage as Cambridge look to work the ball forwards, its as the visitors get hold of the ball that Cambridge win it back in the middle of the park Amy Howlett bringing it on central aims to release Becky Shephard making an attacking run on the left cutting inside towards the edge of the area Stevenage goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis alert out to the edge of her area gathers the through ball before the Cambridge winger can latch onto it.
Play is turned around quickly by Stevenage defending on the left side the ball cleared up to Ashleigh Deacon in a central position she spots striker Nicole Emmings making a run into space on the right sending the ball on for her Emmings takes it on into the box shooting from the angle sends the ball racing low past the the diving keeper Savannah Smith but also wide of the far post. Deacon cutting inside from the right 25 yards out lines up a strike the ball charged down by Fran Gough in the Cambridge defence.
A good tempo to the match both sides relishing the opportunity Kelly Bingham winning the ball in midfield for the hosts lays it back to left back Carrie Bennett, she goes long with Shephard eager to race in behind for the left the bouncing ball too close to the keeper however Vandersluis positioned high catches the ball. No one spending any time on the ball often leads to defence turned into counter attack, Cambridge captain Kelley Blanchflower has a chance a central run into the box the ball driven into her path taking it left of goal looks to put the shot back across the keeper with the outside of her boot, Vandersluis drifting towards her near post can claim the ball.
Up the other end Smith comes out to block Emmings as she is played in behind by Deacon taking up a good central position as Stevenage attack. A set-piece for Stevenage wide on the left the ball delivered high towards those gathering at the top of the Cambridge area, it’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt defending for the hosts that headers the ball clear. Cambridge are looking to peel off the full-backs get in behind Vicky Neal up with Blanchflower the latter almost succeeds central only Vandersluis’ quick reactions coming to the edge of her box to slide in to stop the ball prevents a shot, colliding with Blanchflower the contact accidental.
A good spell from Cambridge, attacking Shephard left sends a pacy ball into the area that evades everyone, the ball retrieved on the right side players are drawn towards it as the driven ball on the diagonal is sent in towards goal running wide Shephard tries to throw herself at the ball with Vandersulis diving for it gets the ball past the keeper lands in the side netting wide. Smith back on her goal line is well placed to catch the ball as Shona Chitate digs a snap shot out of her feet from 20 yards out. Room for Deacon on the right bringing the ball on for Stevenage players breaking into the box her cross sent in low near post is defended by Cambridge out for a corner with Amy Makewell attacking it.
Cambridge break forwards Howlett central carrying it into the Stevenage half has Shepherd ahead of her cutting in behind from the left, Charlotte Ryan defending centrally for Stevenage gets in front of the Cambridge winger inside the area shielding the ball well allowing Vandersluis to gather safely. Neal’s turn to get in behind on the left holding up the ball sends the cross in long across the face of goal Blanchflower coming in far post the target, Stevenage captain Paige Logie does well to intercept and putting behind for a corner so close to her goal.
Neal once again moving to the right to receive the ball wide has Abi Davies breaking forwards inside her lays the ball into the speeding full backs path Davies shot from range charged down the ball rebounding away for a corner on the right. A good deliver in central under the bar Vandersluis doing well to glove the ball up and on towards the far post, Cambridge’s Gough leaping heads the ball back in towards goal blocked Stevenage defend the ball eventually behind for the goalkick.
Is a good contest both sides looking to attack quickly sees the attackers from both sides looking to exploit pockets of space. Dominique Godbeer sliding in to challenge Howlett outside the box left of goal as she looks to burst inside receive the return ball from Shephard on the left. Neal charges down Vandersluis as she attempts to kick the ball long from the top of the area, no control over where the rebound goes it’s deflected behind wide of goal. Bennett with a vital interception as Stevenage play the diagonal ball long from the left with Deacon away on the right.
Breaking Stevenage’s Kristi Burling on for Chitate the pass forwards into Emmings, tries the back heel to try and put strike partner Makewell in behind the Cambridge defence, Gough isn’t fooled turns and cuts the ball out. Shephard and Neal combine in attack Shephard coming forwards passing the ball inside to Neal 25 yards out continues her run past her Neal shifting the ball on into her path edge of the area central Shephard looks to place her shot past the advancing keeper places the ball wide of the goal beyond.
Howlett brought down as she tries to get forwards left side combine with Neal. A good position 25 yards out left of the D, Cantwell on the ball sends a rising ball in towards goal, off target however as Vandersulis coming across to the near post can watch in drop harmlessly wide. Emmings coming near post sees the ball into her low from Ellie Searle on the left, attempting to control and turn goalwards Gough gets the tackle in.
A throw in for Cambridge left as they come forwards the ball finding it’s way into Blanchflower controlling inside the box turns her marker making room for a shot plays the ball straight at the keeper. Burling and Searle working together left side a cross squared inside to Makewell 20 yards out her shot charged down by Burt. Stevenage pressing late on in the first half win a corner right side a good delivery in close to goal Smith gloving the ball away dropping far post little time to react volleys the ball up over the crossbar.
Attacks in the closing moments of the 1st 45 a free-kick played in from wide left for Stevenage Chitate stooping to header the ball right on the edge of the area sees her effort take a deflection wide. Howlett leaning back to strike the ball coming into her from 20 yards out as Cambridge attack across the face of the Stevenage area sees her effort swerve wide of target. A late break Blanchflower picking up the ball looks for options Shephard with a central run Blanchflower tries to play her in Logie doing well for Stevenage sliding in to intercept the ball.
Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
A good contest ends in stalemate at the break neither side finding a clinical edge both attacking with purpose with no one taking time on the ball a high tempo has seen passes rushed and quality through the middle at a premium defences doing well. The attackers all wanting to drift into space haven’t been able to combine where it matters inside the box. Will that change in the 2nd half?
2nd half huddles
Stevenage to get thing’s underway in the 2nd period. Cambridge get hold of the ball and coming forwards win themselves a corner on the left. A long delivery Stevenage can’t get the ball away as Howlett plays it back in towards Blanchflower comes in, Ryan defending for the visitors to prevent a shot on goal. A shirt pull spotted by the referee earns Abi Davies a card for Cambridge joining the Makewell in the book who was cautioned first half. The set-piece wide right driven in low towards the near post Emmings there can’t get a clean connection the chance gone.
Searle picks up the ball driving forwards attempts the diagonal pass out for Deacon on the right, Burt making the interception for Cambridge. Neal is a presence for Cambridge up front working hard to pull the Stevenage defence towards her, her persistence on the left bringing a corner kick. Cantwell to play the ball into the area, Burt coming towards the ball plays it back to the corner taker Cantwell dropping her shoulder cutting past a challenge sends a low cross in towards the near post Gough is there can’t quite get the ball out from under her feet before Stevenage’s Ryan closes her down.
The ball given to her as she breaks clear on the left Stevenage’s Searle looks to strike the ball in towards goal from the top of the area, Smith with the save diving to her right to push the ball away. The tempo reduced 2nd half both sides still attacking and counter attacking the ball is rarely still. Gough fouls Makewell in a dangerous position central 20 yards out. It’s the Stevenage striker to take it striking the ball in low towards goal finds it’s way through unimpeded straight at Smith however back on her line the keeper coming forwards to gather the ball.
Both sides make a change within minutes of each other Deacon coming off for Stevenage is replaced by Amy Josland. Faith Hewitt on for Cambridge replaced Shephard. Blanchflower looks to get in behind on the left Pope and Ryan closing her down.
Penalty! Cambridge are awarded a spot kick as Neal s checked inside the box as she goes to strike the ball played into her from Hewitt on the left. A chance for taker Howlett to put the hosts into the lead, looking to place the ball high to the right misses the score remains 0-0.
Stevenage are fired up now feel aggrieved with the penalty award, Howlett gets back on the ball a strong run into the area right of goal fires a squared ball across the Stevenage six yard box, Ryan clearing for Stevenage. Closing in on the final 15 minutes Cambridge probing put a few long range balls into the Stevenage area, Godbeer and Ryan both winning it for the visitors. A second substitution for Stevenage, Pope coming off with Poppy Bennett. Attacking right side the diagonal ball finding Searle coming in field from the left strikes the ball from the top of the area her effort narrowly over the bar, a corner awarded nicking off a Cambridge body on it’s way through. Gough winning the ball for Cambridge from the set-piece.
Blanchflower breaking away into the clear on the right as the diagonal pass put long picks her out taking the ball on into the box strikes across the ball on the angle Vandersluis throwing her gloves out to make the save deflects it central, Neal in on the follow up, so to is Ryan the defender doing superbly to get the ball clear in front of goal.
A goal now would surely be the winner both sides thinking it is there for the taking Howlett with Cantwell in the middle played on for Blanchflower to the right brings the ball inside across the top of the area determined to get a shot away fired in towards the Stevenage goal Bennett blocks for the visitors. Jodie Whitford-Stark comes on as Stevenage make their final substitution Burling coming off. The substitute with a chance to strike the ball early on laid back to her from inside the box off a throw on the right the ball won’t sit for her as Whitford-Stark sends it over.
A free-kick awarded on half way for Cambridge, Cantwell with a good delivery into the area for a moment it looks like Burt might have stolen in behind to attack the far post, Vandersluis managing to get the ball away. Cambridge come close to breaking the stalemate once more Neal with the chance stooping into a header as she positions herself near post the cross played in from the right, Vandersluis diving for it the ball evading her skips out of play off the base of the post.
Cambridge press late on Stevenage hit them on the break the ball fired long up field Emmings getting the better of the defence to strike the ball from just inside the box sees her attempt whistle over the crossbar. Ryan defending up the other end as Howlett looks to break forwards onto the ball played in from the right the Stevenage centre back putting in the tackle as Howlett lines up a shot.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage Ladies
The final whistle blows and it’s a point a piece as the sides play out a goalless draw. Another point on the board for Cambridge, Stevenage ending their run of losses. Neither side with be happy with the result as both should feel they could have won the game. Cambridge coming the closet. More clinical finishing was needed however defences on top with little time was devoted to the ball in the middle of the park.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match a difficult one, defenders on top ultimately especially through the middle. All did a good job, one edging it for me and that is Stevenage Ladies, Charlotte Ryan who made some well timed and important challenges throughout the match.
Nice to see a game under the lights, a great venue and hopefully Cambridge United WFC will get another opportunity to play there soon. My thanks to everyone for their help this evening.
New leaders in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division with Chichester City Ladies making it 4 straight wins to start the season in all competitions as their rivals at the top dropped points on Sunday. Chichester City travelling up to Buckinghamshire to play newly promoted South East Division One Champions at Stadium MK. The 100% percent winning start to the season maintained by a late winner scored by Molly Clark after Chichester City having dominated to game finally broke Milton Keynes Dons Ladies defence to score in the 86th minute. Results going their way to see Chichester City take over at the top. In contrast Milton Keynes are still searching for their first league point of the season.
That came at last for C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday away from home at all places against the then league leaders Loughborough Foxes Women. The home side getting their noses in front midway through the first have with Kate Lowder powering the ball home for her 3rd goal of the season. C&K Basildon getting back on level terms ate in the first period with Madelyn Thomas scoring what was the Essex sides first goal of the season. Loughborough couldn’t find their clinical edge 2nd half and despite hitting the crossbar C&K Basildon defended stoutly to earn a much needed point.
C&K Basildon Ladies, Madelyn Thomas
Portsmouth FC Women had made it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season were hosting another unbeaten side in the league on Sunday Coventry United Ladies who had earned a draw and win from their opening 2 matches. The away side taking an early lead in the game Helen Dermody tapping the ball home inside the opening 5 minutes. Portsmouth responded well and were back on level terms just 4 minutes later with Rachel Panting on target. Jade Brook getting Coventry United back in front midway through the first half, the visitors awarded a penalty late in the first half after Lois Jefferies was fouled inside the box Dermody missing from the spot. 2-1 to Coventry United at the break, both sides looking for further goals 2nd half defences holding firm however Coventry United climbing up to 3rd in the table as a result.
At home at last for the 1st time this season after 3 successive away trips Cardiff City Ladies are enjoying a much more positive start to the season this time around recovering from an opening day loss well a 3rd successive win in all competitions lifting the Welsh side up to 5th in the Southern Premier Division table. Taking on Queens Park Rangers Ladies it was the visitors who got off to a flying start Chontele Lawrence sending the ball home in the 5th minute an advantage QPR held going into the half-time interval. Cardiff City started the 2nd half well and were back on level terms 4 minutes after the restart. Took the lead with less than 20 minutes left before running away with the result adding a further 3 goals late on one from the penalty spot to win the match 5-1. Cori Williams and Kylie Rolfe both claiming a brace with Alice Griffiths also on the scoresheet.
Watford FC Ladies were away to Oxford United Women in a Saturday kick-off in the Southern Premier Division. A late winner 3 minutes from time securing the 3 points for the visitors. Oxford United leading at half-time with Georgia Timms scoring in the 19th minute to put them 1-0. Watford were level with 10 minutes played in the 2nd half striker Katie O’Leary pouncing in the box to smash the ball home. The winning goal coming in the 87th minute Watford with a purposeful attack, Helen Ward making the run the ball played into her the Welsh international forward smashing the ball in across the keeper to win the game 2-1.
Newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division, South West Division One Champions are enjoying a good start to the season, A long trip to Kent on Sunday to play Gillingham FC Ladies the venue for Sunday’s match the Medway Priestfield Stadium. Not the result Gillingham would have wanted however as the visitors enjoyed a good first half performance. Zoe Cunningham striking the ball into the back of the net in the 10th minute. Helen Bleazard scoring just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0 to the visitors a goal from Mollie Taylor coming with 5 minutes of the first half left to see Plymouth leading 3-0 at half-time. Captain Katie Middleton making it 4-0 on the hour, Gillingham were awarded a penalty late in the match Maddison Farrand converting what was to be only a consolation goal. The 4-1 win takes Plymouth up into 7th joining 4 sides on 6 points.
FAWNL South East Division One
The excellent start to the season for the clubs promoted to FAWNL South East Division One continues with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies maintaining their 100% winning start to the season. Goals scored seeing Billericay go top last time out, it switches this Sunday with Crawley Wasps hitting Norwich City Ladies for six away from home at the weekend. Goals from Sian Heather and Kemina Webber seeing Crawley Wasps leading the game 2-0 at half-time. Emma Plewa struck to make it 3-0 early in the 2nd half. Heather netting her 2nd goal midway through the 2nd period to make it 4-0 with Naomi Cloe and Suzy Davies striking in the final 10 minutes to seal a 6-0 win.
Scoring 19 goals in their opening 3 matches Billericay Town Ladies needed just the 1 goal to claim the 3 points at the weekend. At home taking of AFC Wimbledon Ladies, Megan Jiggins first goal for Billericay midway through the first half enough against a side who won their fair share of matches by a single goal themselves last season. 3 win from 3 in the league for the two promoted sides.
Leyton Orient WFC climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with their 2nd league win of the season away to Stevenage Ladies on Sunday, a brace from Lisa Fulgence doing the damage, the striker opening the scoring on 11 minutes, struck again to make the lead more secure with a little over a quarter hour left on the clock.
An equalising goal 17 (yes seventeen) minutes into injury time saw Ipswich Town Women grab a point from their home match with Enfield Town Ladies after they found themselves trailing 3-0 at half-time. Enfield enjoying the first half Sara Degooye scoring on 13 minutes to give the visitors the lead was followed by a brace from Molly Peters to put them in a strong lead. Ipswich mounted a come back in the 2nd half scoring early as Natasha Thomas was brought down in the box, captain Amanda Crump making it 3-1 from the penalty spot. Crump getting another goal soon after to make it 3-2 and set up a tense game that unfortunately over-boiled into a mass brawl at the death Tia Bailey shown a straight red card after putting an opponent in a head lock. A bit of sorting out leading to a lot of stoppage time Ipswich with a late corner Crump involved as the ball was put over the line to make it 3-3 and see the sides share the points.
Late drama too at Mildenhall Town FC on Sunday with visitors Denham United Ladies striking late to win for the first time this season against Cambridge United Women. Goals for the visitors a both ends of the 90 with Emma Kern scoring to put Denham 1-0 inside the opening 2 minutes. Held onto the advantage going into the dressing room at half-time. Cambridge pushing for the equaliser found it 2nd half with Vicky Neal getting her head to the ball inside the six yard box from a left sided cross to make it 1-1. Denham though won it late into stoppage time Rae Roberts nipping in to send the ball flying past the keeper into the back of the net.
Another side winning for the first time this season are Actonians Ladies taking on Luton Town Ladies at home on Sunday both going into the game without a point on the board. Catherine Murphy scoring a goal on 10 minutes to see Actonians lead. 1-0 in remained going into the final 20 minutes Carla Williams doubling the score in the 73rd minute ensured Actonians their 1st 3 point haul of the season adding her 2nd and Actonians 3rd goal of the game with 3 minutes of normal time left to play. That result leaving Luton bottom now the only side in the league without a point. Still very early days however and results this weekend mean nothing can be taken for granted.
August Bank Holiday weekend saw the 2nd round of league fixtures across the FAWNL Southern Premier Division and South East Division One with newly promoted sides leading the way in both divisions after Sunday’s results. A wet afternoon across the whole of the East very few if any games avoided a drenching.
Loughborough Foxes Women lead the way in the Southern Premier Division jointly with Portsmouth FC Women, making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. Last season’s Midlands Division One Champions were away to former FAWSL 2 side Watford Ladies on Sunday. Rebecca Knight heading Loughborough into the lead in the 22nd minute. Kate Lowder with a strike from the edge of the box making it 2-0 to the visitors 6 minutes later. 2-0 the lead at the break, Watford were far from out of the game chances for both sides 2nd half Leanne Bell pulled it back to 2-1 inside the final 15 minutes for Watford, just 2 minutes later though Loughborough countered to restore their 2 goal cushion, Charlotte Cooper on as a 2nd half substitute making it 3-1, a result that sees Loughborough lead a three-way tie at the top on 6 points.
Goal difference and goals scored identical after 2 matches played Portsmouth FC Women match Loughborough with 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on the South Coast were taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. The sides looked to be going in goalless at the half-time interval until Gillingham broke the deadlock scoring from a free kick late on, Maddison Chamney-Farrand with the goal. Portsmouth were quick out of the blocks 2nd half with Shannon Albuery levelling the scores with a minute played. Portsmouth then went on to take the lead in the 58th minute Katie James on the scoresheet. Jade Bradley striking from long distance to make it 3-1 to Portsmouth 5 minutes later. Daisy McLachlan netting in the final 10 minutes to seal a 4-1 victory.
Also making it 2 wins from 2 at the start of the season are Chichester City Ladies. Travelled west to play newly promoted Plymouth Argyle Ladies on Sunday. Their new signings doing the damage Molly Clark having opened her account for Chichester in their 1st match of the season added a brace to her tally against Plymouth, with Helen Ogle previously with QPR Women also netting her 1st goal for the club in a 3-0 away victory.
A goalless draw for Coventry United Ladies n their opening match of the season away to Gillingham they were once again on the road again this Sunday a shorter journey to Stadium MK to play newly promoted Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Chenise Austin putting Coventry into the lead in the 20th minute. Marie Gauntlett struck to double Coventry’s advantage with 10 minutes of the 1st half left. The result made more comfortable on the hour mark with Lois Jefferies putting the ball in on the rebound after a strike from Marie Gauntlett had come back to her off the post. Coventry move up to 4th with the 3-0 win.
Cardiff City Ladies climb up to 5th in the fledgling Southern Premier Division table with a comfortable 5-0 away win against Essex side C&K Basildon Ladies on Sunday. A strong 1st half for the side from Wales, Kylie Nolan putting Cardiff into the lead inside the opening 2 minutes. A quick fire double from Hannah Miles midway through the 1st half further extended Cardiff’s lead with Cori Williams striking on 40 minutes to see Cardiff leading 4-0 at half-time. Alice Griffiths on target with a goal in the 2nd half to see Cardiff claim their 1st win of season.
A first win of the season to for Oxford United Women away to Queens Park Rangers Women on Sunday, the former FAWSL 2 side now 6th in the Southern Premier Division table as a result. All the goals coming in the 1st half Georgia Timms putting Oxford into the lead on 27 minutes. Kerry Walklett and Florence Fyfe both on target late in the half to put Oxford in full control.
FAWNL South East Division One
What are the odds of the two sides newly promoted to a league leading the way with 2 wins from 2 each at the start of the season? Long I should imagine but that is the case in FAWNL South East Division One with both Billericay Town Ladies and Crawley Wasps Ladies taking maximum points from their opening fixtures.
Billericay started the season with a 3-0 away win at Denham United Ladies. Were at home for the 1st time this Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies who had started with a 5-2 win themselves. The away side short of numbers going into the Bank Holiday weekend fixture just the bare 11. Billericay with a good start Samantha Pittock (who I called Puttock in the Round-Up last time out) handed the Essex side the lead scoring in the opening 5 minutes. Zoe Rushen doubling Billericay’s lead in the 10th minute. Nicole Emmings scored for Stevenage to see them trail 2-1 at the break. 2nd half Billericay took full control Jay Blackie with a brace scoring on 56 & 66 minutes making it 4-1, Pittock adding her 2nd of the game as the last 15 minutes loomed, Lucy Jones with a long range effort into the top corner sealing a 6-1 win in the 82nd minute.
Crawley Wasps Ladies also started the season with 2 wins from 2 but it was a much closer affair this time out away to Enfield Town Ladies. Both sides having started the season with a 5-1 win. For over 80 minutes the two sides had been locked at 0-0, the winning goal coming 6 minutes from time Rachel Palmer sending home a free-kick to send Crawley home with the 3 points.
Cambridge United Women climb into 3rd position in the South East Division One table with there 1st win of the season away to Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A 2nd successive away day to the capital having earned a point away to AFC Wimbledon Ladies on the opening weekend. Striker Kelley Blanchflower scoring to put Cambridge into the lead late in the 1st half. New signing Becky Shephard opened her Cambridge account lobbing the ball over the keeper from the top of the box to make it 2-0 to the visitors in the 2nd half, with Blanchflower on target again for her 2nd of the game to seal a 3-0 victory.
Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower opened her account with a brace on Sunday
AFC Wimbledon Ladies drawing with Cambridge on the opening day also got their 1st 3 point haul of the season this Sunday, away to Luton Town Ladies. The hosts taking an early lead in the match however Rachel Carter with the goal to put Luton 1-0 up. Sophie Manzi getting Wimbledon back on level terms midway through the 1st half, less than 10 minutes later the visitors were in front Sian Wylie finding the back of the net. 2-1 the lead to Wimbledon at the break it wasn’t until 4 minutes from time that the visitors made the 3 points secure Manzi with her 2nd goal of the match sealing the 3-1 win.
A 5-1 loss to newcomers Crawley Wasps Ladies on the opening day of the season Ipswich Town Women bounced back with a fine 2nd half performance to claim their 1st win of the season this time away to Actonians Ladies. It was the home side holding the advantage at half-time however Mariko Eagles getting the goal on the half hour for Actonians. Ipswich responding well Nicole Pannifer levelling the scores for the Suffolk side 20 minutes into the 2nd half just 3 minutes later Ipswich were ahead Zoe Cossey with the strike to make it 2-1. New signing Paige Wakefield previously with C&K Basildon Ladies struck to make it 3-1 to Ipswich with 15 minutes left. Natasha Thomas slotting home from the penalty spot to make it 4-1 to Ipswich in the 78th minute with another summer recruit Laken Ducher-Clarke also from C&K Basildon adding a goal in final moments of the game to secure a 5-1 win.
In the final game to report on from the FAWNL South East Division One, Norwich City Ladies were denied all 3 points thanks to a late equaliser by visitors Denham United Ladies on Sunday. Both sides starting the season with a loss Denham United were to take the lead on 10 minutes with Annie Hewitt getting the visitors goal. Norwich were quick to respond levelling the score less than 5 minutes later, striker Chelsea Garrett sending the ball home to make it 1-0. That the score at the break Norwich went on to take the lead in the game with a little over 10 minutes left to play Garrett on target for her 2nd of the game. The 3 points denied late on however a Denham came back to level the score with just 2 minutes left on the clock, Joanne Torr making it 2-2 to see both sides claim their 1st point of the season.
The new football season began this Sunday and with it comes the first edition of The Round-Up. Women’s Football East will continue to cover the same leagues as last season which are much changed at the top end following the FA’s restructuring of the women’s football pyramid. The FAWSL remains the countries top tier featuring 11 fully professional clubs with FAWSL 2 being renamed the FA Championship again featuring 11 clubs most being semi-professional. The FAWPL below is where The Round-Up coverage begins, renamed this season now known as the FAWNL (Women’s National League).
The two leagues covered by Women’s Football East being the Southern Premier Division and South East Division One below. 12 teams on each at the start of the season several new names feature in the Southern Premier Division as 4 teams from last season were successful in applying for a licence to play in the revamped FAWSL. West Ham United Ladies the most ambitious being the only club outside the FAWSL to apply for a tier one licence. Southern Premier Division Champions, Charlton Athletic Women were victorious in the FAWPL Play-off match to earn promotion whilst Lewes FC Women and after appeal Crystal Palace Ladies also secured a place in the Championship.
There were casualties too with founder clubs from FAWSL 2 opting not to apply for a licence initially in what is an incredibly expensive league. That see’s Watford FC Ladies and Oxford United Women drop down into the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. Three promoted sides join the league after the restructure Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Plymouth Argyle Ladies and Loughborough Foxes Women winners of the FAWPL South East, South West and Midlands Division One’s respectfully.
Onto to the weekend’s football.
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
We begin with Loughborough Foxes Women, who were runaway winners of the Midland’s Division One last season, undefeated winning all but one of their 22 league games. Started the new season at home against Queens Park Rangers Women who finished 2nd bottom in the Southern Premier last season. An excellent start for the newly promoted sides, early woes for QPR. Rebecca Mcgrother getting Loughborough off to the perfect start scoring in the 3rd minute of the match. Charlotte Cooper the clubs top scorer last campaign opened her account this season on the 12th minute to put Loughborough 2-0 up, with further goals from Shauna Chambers and Kate Lowder seeing Loughborough leading 4-0 at the break. Mcgrother added her 2nd of the game 2 minutes after the restart with Cooper making it 6-0 with her 2nd of the game with 15 minutes left, QPR going down 7-0 in the finish conceding an own goal in stoppage time. Loughborough the early leaders.
Just a goal less scored for Portsmouth FC Women sees them into 2nd in the Southern Premier Division after the opening round of fixtures. Were away to last season’s runners-up, C&K Basildon Ladies. The Essex side seeing a lot of changes over the close season with the retirement of Peter King who had invested heavily into the club to make it one of the leading forces in women’s football in the County taking them to the brink of the FAWSL. Now C&K Basildon entering a new era have seen the lost of much of the first team squad along with manager Steve Tilson. A new management team an new look (young) side came up against a strong Portsmouth side. Hannah Greer giving the away side the lead on 12 minutes made it a brace before Daisy McLachlan made it 3-0 on the stroke of half-time. McLachlan an emerging talent last season went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to bag herself an opening day hat-trick with Shannon Albuery on target for a goal in a 6-0 win.
Watford FC Ladies made the decision early not to apply for an FAWSL licence this naturally saw some upheaval at the club costing them their coach and several key players. Also gave them a longer time to prepare for a new era and maybe out of all the former FAWSL sides who drop out of league they are in the best position to mount an immediate promotion push. Got off the the perfect start with an opening day victory at home to Cardiff City Ladies. Welsh international striker Helen Ward opening her account to put the hosts 1-0 up within 7 minutes. Kylie Nolan got it back to 1-1 for Cardiff City midway through the 1st half. Ward restoring Watford’s lead just before half-time from the penalty spot. Andrea Carid Coa came on to make her debut in the 2nd half for Watford and celebrated the occasion by scoring a brace on 64 and 72 minutes. Ward going on to complete a hat-trick in the final 10 minutes. Nolan adding a 2nd goal for Cardiff City late on. Watford clinching a 5-2 win.
Chichester City Ladies began the season at home entertaining the other side dropping out of the FAWSL, Oxford United Women. The debutants doing the damage for Chichester City, Sara Tubby finding the back of the net with 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half to hands the hosts a 1-0 half-time lead. Molly Clark too scoring on her debut for Chichester City on 65 minutes to make it 2-0. Oxford pulling a goal back through Ellie Noble to make it 2-1 and set up a tense last 10 minutes Chichester City going on to claim the 3 points.
A 7 goal thriller between the other two sides promoted to the Southern Premier Division this season with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies playing their home games at Stadium MK itself this season entertaining Plymouth Argyle Ladies who finished South West Division One Champions unbeaten with 16 wins from 18 played. Largely due to the incredible 61 goal haul by top scorer Natasha Knapman, and she wasn’t hanging around at the start of this season either, scoring a 1st half hat-trick to put Plymouth 3-0 up. Milton Keynes Dons fought back to reduce the deficit with Kim Farrow and Zoe Boote both scoring to make it 3-2 in the final 5 minutes of the 1st half. Milton Keynes Dons pulled it around to make it 3-3 with 15 minutes played in the 2nd half, Farrow in target for her 2nd goal of the game. Knapman wasn’t finished however as she put the ball home for her 4th of the match 8 minutes later to see the visitors open the season with a 4-3 win.
In the other game played in the Southern Premier Division at the weekend Coventry United Ladies travelled to Kent to play Gillingham FC Ladies, the two sides battling out a 0-0 to claim a share of the points.
FAWNL South East Division One
Crawley Wasps Ladies join the FAWNL South East Division One this season and made a positive start to life at a higher level by securing a home win against Ipswich Town Women who were pushing for promotion for a large spell last season. At home it was Ariana Fleischman who claimed Crawley Wasps first goal in the FAWNL netting in the 6th minute. Faye Rabson doubling the advantage for Crawley Wasps on the half hour. Ipswich Town changing their name to Women were to pull it back to 2-1 with 6 minutes left in the 1st half captain Amanda Crump scoring from outside the box. Crawley Wasps were to go it with a 2 goal cushion at half-time with Sian Heather newly joined from Lewes FC Women scoring on her debut. Crawley Wasps going on to made victory comfortable in the 2nd half with both Rabson and Heather getting on the scoresheet once more to seal a 5-1.
5-1 was also the winning score for Enfield Town Ladies as they go joint top with Crawley Wasps in South East Division One after the opening weekend. Began their campaign at home to Norfolk side Norwich City Ladies. Got off the the worst possible start however as Norwich took an early lead in the game Sasha Diston finding the back of the net with just 7 minutes played. Enfield turning the game right around to lead 2-1 at half-time with new signing Jodie Bellinger scoring a brace. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Bellinger had her hat-trick before Danielle Smith scored to make it 4-1 to Enfield. Norwich saw a penalty saved with 20 minutes left before Isabella Agus wrapped up the 5-1 result with 8 minutes left to play.
Also scoring 5 goal on in their opening game of the season were Stevenage Ladies at home to Actonians Ladies on Sunday. Nicole Emmings getting a brace for Stevenage there were opening day goals too for Amy Josland, Amy Makewell and Ellie Searle in a 5-2 victory. Alessandra Barreca top scorer for Actonians last season netting both the visitors goals one in each half.
The other debutant in South East Division One were Essex side, Billericay Town Ladies Champions for the ERWFL Premier Division at last after narrowly missing out on promotion for a number of seasons. Manager Kim Coster has recruited strongly over the close season experience and presence in Zoe Rushen and Jay Blackie from C&K Basildon Ladies along with striker Karissa Rodney, with exciting young talents like Megan Jiggins and Broghan Kelly also coming in amongst others. Started the season perfectly to with an away victory over Denham United Ladies. Lucy Jones, captain Lindsey Morgan and Samantha Puttock all on target in the 1st half in a 3-0 win.
A late winner saw Leyton Orient WFC claim an opening day victory against Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. Chanel Richards with the all important goal to clinch a 1-0 win for the visitors in the 81st minute of the match.
Cambridge United Women began the season with an away trip to the capital to play last season’s South East Division One runners-up, AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Cambridge are another side who have make several new additions over the close season. AFC Wimbledon were holding the advantage at half-time with Katie Stanley putting them 1-0 up inside the final 10 minutes of the half. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Cambridge United were back on level terms new club captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt rising inside the box to head the ball home from a corner kick. An opening day draw to begin the season the game ending 1-1.
