Category Archives: FAWPL South East Division One

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v London Bees

Sunday 6th October

FAWNL South East Division One

A trip over to St Neots this Sunday to catch some action from FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC hosting London Bees.

  FAWNL South East Division One representing tier 4 of the women’s football pyramid looks to be really competitive this season with no single side breaking away from the pack, closely bunched with Cambridge United in 5th just 4 points behind leaders Norwich City with London Bees 7th just a point further back. Some surprise results already this season and no doubt a few more to come, will be an intriguing title contest.

  Cambridge United WFC one of the longest established clubs within the South East Division One set-up and now with closer ties with their men’s club are looking to find that extra edge to get them p amongst the title challengers vying for promotion on a regular basis. Reaching the FAWNL League Plate final last season are hungry for more success. A few new faces added to the squad over the close season. Ellie Finneran and Kelsey Smith from fellow South East Division one side London Seaward. Eva Hubbard the clubs new captain and midfielder Rosy Wodhams joining from local rival Cambridge City with goalkeeper Sophie Shults coming in form Ashford Town (Middlesex). Emma Wallis another strong addition to the back line. 

  Injuries to key players throughout last season were a bugbear last season with manager Darren Marjoram rarely able to call on a settled line up. Making their run to the Plate final all remarkable. Injuries too at the start of this season with striker Sarah Wiltshire only just back into the squad after having her 3rd child breaking her arm in pre-season, only now back playing while Ellie Finneran has missed much of pre-season slowly working her way back to playing again. A frustrating 1-0 loss to one of the early pace setters Actonians Ladies on the opening day was followed by a 2nd loss away to Norwich. Responded well in the league after that going on a run of 3 consecutive wins to propel them up the table into 4th spot. Mixed results in league and cup since but in a strong position to kick on. Bella Simmons out of the traps early to lead the goal scoring charts with 8 to her name.

  London Bees were one of the founding clubs to join the newly formed FAWSL 2. Now the FAWSL Championship. Came in with a large budget (at the time) and high expectations. Made many a trip to The Hive way back then beginning my support of the women’s game proper when the WSL was formed, wrote a few reports which can still be found on the old Supporting Women’s Football blog site. Have since struggled as financial demands in the top two tiers increased like a few of the founding clubs have since fallen out of the league dropping into the FAWNL Southern Premier Division back in 2021 the club seeing many changes of coaching staff and playing personnel since then struggling in the league last season without a win relegated to the 4th tier.

  That said the club begins this season with a new wave of enthusiasm. A new manager joining the club, Daniel McKimm, a young coach with plenty of experience within the women’s game. Highly thought of after his spell with London Seaward FC also playing in South East Division One. Brings with him some of his coaching staff and a host of players from London Seaward. Too may to mention here, but nevertheless is a virtual rebuild of the squad recruiting players who have good experience at competing at this level. Others joining include goalkeeper, Mia O’Brien from Stevenage. Millie Isherwood was at Chelsea as a youngster coming to the club via a period at Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Aimee Durn is the new captain the midfielder at Ashford Town (Middlesex) last season.

 St Neots gets bigger every time I visit with on going building work taking place on the way to the ground, St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium in the heart of a busy residential area close to the railway station. Offering two pitches, an artificial surface beside the main grass pitch stadium. A good playing surface with lots of grass cover a good width, terraced viewing behind both goals with the main seated stand housing the changing rooms and clubhouse beside the bar opening offering hot and cold drinks. An overcast day with a few spots of rain in the air, a slight chill as we enter October but should stay dry for the game.

Cambridge United WFCC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Abbie Jackson, Emma Wallis, Kelsey Smith, Ella Marden, Gisela Otten, Rosy Wodhams, Eva Hubbard (C), Bella Simmons & Sarah Wiltshire. Subs – Sophie Shults, Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Marta Rodriguez, Mollie Coupar & Holly Plummer.

Cambridge United WFC

 London Bees starting XI – Tia Gunn, Mira Hoteit, Aria Heil, Cheyenne Flynn, Rebekah Wozniak, Megan Burrows, Aimee Durn (C), Hayley Hoare, Sophie Lee, Sam Lanza & Millie Isherwood. Subs – Millie Constantine, Sarah McDermott, Aaliyah Charles, Olivia Bartlett & Shamoy Campbell.

London Bees

Captain’s Aimee Durn and Eva Hubbard with today’s match officials

  Further injuries for Cambridge heading in to today’s match with midfielders, Sammy Edgar and Alysha Stojko-Down not in the playing squad. Nevertheless both fielding a strong starting XI with useful replacements waiting on the bench. Cambridge wearing Amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks to take the kick-off 1st half, London Bees wearing similar colours in their away strip today, purple shirts with white trim, along with white shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into the middle for captain Eva Hubbard to clip out to the right with Kelsey Smith on the move, Mira Hoteit seeing it out for a throw in for the visitors.

 GOAL! London Bees captain, Aimee Durn gets hold of the ball in the middle of the ark and goes on a driving run forwards sending the ball on for Sophie Lee breaking clear on the right wing down the line whips a dangerous cross into the box with players piling forwards, defended at the near post, but not cleared out to the left inside the box Hayley Hoare pressing the ball knocked on for Millie Isherwood inside the six yard box at the left post turns on the ball and blasts her strike into the back of the net to open the scoring inside the first minute! 0-1.

Millie Isherwood firing London Bees into the lead inside the opening minute

  An early blow for Cambridge and before they can pick themselves up London Bees are lively nipping in to win the ball putting Lee into an attacking position on the right goes on a forceful run tracking in field, before attempting to slide a ball into the box for Isherwood making a run across to the near post, a little heavy runs out of play. Rosy Wodhams onto the ball for Cambridge passed forwards into Sarah Wilshire looks to chip the ball into the right channel for Bella Simmons, Rebekah Wozniak at the back heading the ball clear for London Bees.

  Gisela Otten snapping in to win the ball for Cambridge in the middle playing a direct ball on up top for Wiltshire to attack, a good starting position from London Bees keeper, Tia Gunn sees her onto the ball first. London Bees on the front foot early on, Durn taking the ball on well, Hoare and Lee providing good pace and options on the flanks. Lee getting on down the right, Abbie Jackson in to close her down for Cambridge slows her up blocking one cross Lee with a 2nd bite firing it in low to the near post cleared this time by Cambridge’s Lauren Rouse. 

Cambridge’s Gisela Otten

  London Bees causing Cambridge issues early on pulling the hosts out of shape with players pressing well and taking the ball on. Durn with the ball for the visitors driving on sending a cross from deep into the far post, Sam Lanza looking to attack it for London Bees, Emma Wallis getting in front of her to head the ball away for Cambridge. 

  Lee marauding down the right for London Bees getting in behind pulling players across allowing openings for midfield runners to exploit. Jackson blocking a cross attempts to clear the ball up the left into Wiltshire, Aria Heil coming to close her down, Hubbard coming over to support Wiltshire turns to put the ball central for Wodhams, tries to lay it into the left channel for Wiltshire bursting forwards, over hits the pass, runs out of play.

Eva Hubbard moving in to tackle Cheyenne Flynn

 GOAL! Isherwood turns provider this time as London Bees surge forwards getting onto the ball 20 yards out top of the D sends a low ball on for Lee tracking into the area from the right, closing in on the near post shoots early firing the ball under Webb before the keeper can get down to save from point blank range 0-2.

Sophie Lee firing home London Bees 2nd goal

A blistering start from London Bees, goals up inside the opening 10 minutes Megan Burrows playing the ball forwards out to Lee on the right combines with Lanza the ball squared back across the top of the Cambridge area, Durn running onto it volleys over. Cambridge most certainly on the back foot, struggling to get the ball out, London Bees sharper to close down the 2nd ball get play turned around. Their wingers able to get in behind at will. Isherwood attacking down the right forcing Cambridge into conceding a corner kick.

London Bees captain, Aimee Durn

 Hoare across to take it on the right side fired in to the top of the area collected by Wozniak eft of the D, Simmons in to close her down no shooting option instead plays it out to the right for Hoare to deliver the ball into the box from the angle half cleared at the far post drops to a London Bees player, struck back towards goal a vicious drive on target, a brilliant save from Webb instinctive throwing a glove up to tip the ball over the bar!

  The corner swept long beyond the far post knocked goal wards claimed by Webb moving across her goal. Cambridge finding attacking opportunities in short supply, Hubbard looking to mix things up in the middle sending the ball on for Wiltshire in attack, turns on the ball 0 yards out, Wozniak closing her down for London Bees. Lee fouled on the right inside the Cambridge half a free-kick to the visitors. Players up from the back a good delivery angled in at the far post attacked by Cheyenne Flynn headed over. Cambridge forced into a formation change going to a back four with Smith dropping in at right back, Wallis across to the left of defence.

 Hoteit winning the ball from Simmons sending it up the left for Hoare racing on to attack her cross cut out by Rouse at the back for Cambridge. London Bees working the ball between them well Durn often the linchpin on for Hoare coming inside form the left has Lanza ahead of her back to goal outside the area sees Hoteit making a run from the back slides the ball into her path the full back in turn looking to thread it into the area for Isherwood, overcooks her pass Webb can see it run safely out of play.

London Bees, Sam Lanza

  Smith getting the ball on for Simmons high on the right for Cambridge, has Wiltshire over that side to link up with the cross swept in across the six yard box, Marden looking to attack it beyond the far post can’t get over the ball turns her attempt wide. Lee bursting on down the right flank for London Bees, Wallis going with her into the corner, blocking her cross behind for a corner.

Cambridge’s Emma Wallis

 Swung in from the right, Wodhams defending at the near post for Cambridge, knocked back out to the corner taker the 2nd attempt to cross send behind for a 3rd corner.

GOAL! Played long by Hoare from the right falls to Durn top of the area clips it back out to Hoare out wide on the wing for her to deliver a pacy ball in across the face of goal, high Webb looking to punch it clear, instead Wozniak comes steaming in to head the ball from point blank range hurting herself as she lands in the Cambridge keeper as the pair go down 0-3. 

Rebekah Wozniak steaming in with the header to score London Bees 3rd goal

 Wozniak heading London Bees into a 3 goal lead on the half hour. Hurt from her goal scoring heroics a pause in play players going to the benches for drinks and instruction. London Bees looking strong into a commanding position, Cambridge with a mountain to climb need to regroup. Wozniak okay and able to play on needing to come off having received treatment wait to be called back on.  

 Burrows linking up with Hoare out on London Bees left wing, Simmons giving a foul away another opportunity to launch the ball into the box, fired in to the far post, a glancing header taking the ball wide. Simmons turning on the ball right side to get on down the flank crossing the ball in from deep, Hoteit getting the faintest of touches to deflect the ball into the side netting conceding the corner. The ball curled onto the roof of the net.

  Hubbard using the outside of her boot to launch the ball forwards for Cambridge, Wiltshire the target, Gunn able to press up due to her teammates forcing the play almost acting as a sweeper getting to the ball first to clear for London Bees. Hoteit playing Hoare on down the left for the visitors her cross angled into the near post claimed by Webb. Marden putting the ball into Hubbard to play forwards up to Wiltshire making a left channel run, Flynn in to close the striker down for London Bees.

London Bees defender, Cheyenne Flynn

  Isherwood spinning off her marker top feed the ball on down the right wing for Lee, Wallis getting a foot on the ball to turn it out for a throw in. The visitors pressing the ball forcing Cambridge into misplacing their passes, Burrows forwards into Isherwood, Otten sliding in to tackle for Cambridge, Durn onto the ball out to Lee wide right, Wallis stopping the cross. 

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-3 London Bees

  A strong first half performance from London Bees racing into an early lead setting the pace overwhelming their opponents getting players forwards and in return comfortable at the back. 2 goals up inside 10 minutes added a 3rd on the half hour. Cambridge’s opportunities s up top limited with one shot off target have a mountain to climb but the half-time break giving them a much needed chance to reset and regroup see if they can salvage anything 2nd half. London Bees in control on the front foot from the start and haven’t looked back creating chances pulling players out of position and winning the 2nd ball.

  No surprise to see Cambridge ringing the changes 2nd half with a triple switch. Brooklyn Cheal-Ferris, Marta Rodriguez and Mollie Coupar coming on in place of Smith, Otten and Marden. London Bees unchanged to get the 2nd half underway the ball played back into the defence, Flynn and Wozniak exchanging passes, Wiltshire rushing in to close her down the ball clipped long up to Isherwood in attack the ball bouncing safely through to the keeper. 

 

 Rodriguez looking to put some fight into the play for Cambridge battling her way on through the middle combining with Hubbard, the pass into Wiltshire cut out by Flynn. The ball played out to Burrows moving left for London Bees sent on up the line for Hoare. Wallis now back on the right with Cheal-Ferris left sliding in to tackle for Cambridge. 

Cambridge’s Abbie Jackson

 Coupar taking the ball on left side for Cambridge knocking it inside looking for Simmons, Heil defending for London Bees, Simmons onto the loose ball taking it into the corner, Heil back on her blocking the ball to turn it behind for the corner. Cheal-Ferris on the corner from the left is a sweet curling back in across the six yard box, unfortunately no one attacks it at the far post the ball running out of play. 

 Hoare doing well out on the left attacking for London Bees pace taking the ball on fired forwards into Isherwood pulling left inside the box whips a cross in along the face of goal, Lee looking to met it first time at the far post not getting the contact she wanted her shot screwed wide.

 Hubbard goes into the referees book picking up a yellow card for a foul on Durn. Out on the left from deep, Hoare over the ball, curls the ball into the box angled in too close to the keeper Webb can claim it untroubled. Hubbard lifting the ball over the top as London Bees play a high line, Wiltshire staying onside to burst in behind, Gunn though is positioned outside her box and onto the ball first. Cambridge snapping back in to regain the ball Wodhams out to the left Coupar on for Cheal-Ferris racing to the by line her cross lifted into the area cleared by Lee.

Mira Hoteit on the ball for London Bees

 Rodriguez playing the ball into the run of Wodhams as she breaks into the right channel, Hoteit in to close her down well for London Bees get her side on the attack by playing Hoare in on the wing with Isherwood ahead of her the striker sweeping her cross into Lanza on the penalty spot is closed down going down appeals for a penalty but nothing doing as the ball travels on to Lee on the right smashes her strike into the near post, low, Webb getting down well to bat the ball behind for a corner kick.

 

  The corner curled in across the six yard box, Lanza beyond the far post stretching for the ball can’t direct the ball back inside. London Bees pushing up Cambridge defending at the back Wallis right lifting the ball forwards finding Wilshire 30 yards out turns onto the ball looking to lob the keeper knowing Gunn is way off her line, however stretching to meet the ball can’t direct her attempt on target. 

GOAL! London Bees win a free-kick in a dangerous position out wide on the left, Hoare over the ball as players come up from the back. angling her delivery in central the ball is headed clear to the left of goal, Wozniak getting hold of it looking to keep the attack alive laying the ball back out to Hoare who controls then curls a shot in towards goal struck beautifully over the keeper under the crossbar to make it 0-4.

Hayley Hoare curling home London Bees 4th goal

  London Bees extending their lead on the hour. Rodriguez winning the ball for Cambridge taking it forwards trying to fed it on up to Wiltshire in attack, Wozniak up well ahead if her with a deft header glancing the ball down safely into her keepers gloves. The hosts winning a corner on the right as Simmons presses the ball, Gunn surrounded on her line as the ball is curled into the six yard box, Flynn defending it at the near post. Back out to the right floated into the area falling beyond the far post Rodriguez with the attempted shot fired back across the six yard box wide of the right post.

  Burrows fouled wide left high up the pitch as she moves forwards for London Bees, Hoare on the set-piece swung into the mix, defended by Wodhams cleared out to Hoteit some 30 yards out central, takes on the strike her low effort taking a couple of deflections on its way through to the keeper. Wodhams pulling up for Cambridge down with an injury, another pause in play and another blow for Cambridge as she can’t continue, Holly Plummer coming on.

 Isherwood is fouled 30 yards out to the right of the D giving London Bees another free-kick. Durn and Wozniak over the ball. Wozniak doesn’t do subtle running in to strike the ball fires her bullet of a strike wide past the far post. Simmons picking up a knock for Cambridge in some discomfort but can continue. London Bees making a triple switch as they bring on Sarah McDermott, Olivia Bartlett and Shamoy Campbell to replace, Flynn, Durn and Isherwood with less than 15 minutes to play.

  Simmons after the ball from Wallis on the right playing it on for Wiltshire to chase into the corner, Wozniak coming over to close her down for the visitors. Burrows coming left for London Bees, Plummer in to close her down holding her up well, Burrows forced back infield gets the cross field pass out to Lanza on the right 20 yards out on the angle fires a shot up over the bar. Lee coming off for London Bees on in her place, Aaliyah Charles. 

  Campbell getting after the ball in attack for London Bees, Rouse in to challenge well for Cambridge outside the box. Rouse in to defend on Campbell again moments later as she is found by Hoare in the left channel as the winger spins off her marker on half way to launch the ball into her. Wilshire picking up the ball on the right for Cambridge shifting it well between her feet tracking inside 25 yards out closed down rolls it back into Wallis breaking forwards she hits it on into the box for Rodriguez right side, can’t dig it out of her feet before Hoteit can close her down.

 

  Hoare with some strong running on the left for the visitors firing the ball into Campbell back to goal left side inside the box drags the ball inside looking to shift it onto her right foot the goal opening up before her, angles her shot in low towards the right corner, I’m looking at this from behind through my camera, looks a goal all the way, but Webb comes from nowhere to diving full stretch across her goal line getting down to the ball with her outstretched arm and turning the ball wide of the post for a corner kick.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

  Swept in from the right goes long but won back on the left the cross angled in to the near post turned behind for a corner on the left. This one defended at the near post put back into the taker the ball lifted high into the six yard box, Webb getting up to punch the ball away to safety on the right. Webb keeping the score line down for Cambridge as London Bees continue to push on the substitutes keen to get in on the action, Campbell racing onto the ball inside the box right of goal, Webb rushing out to close her down staying big to make the blocking save as Campbell fires her shot into her. 

Cambridge United striker, Sarah Wiltshire

 Plummer escapes with the ball into the right channel for Cambridge, squaring the ball back inside for Wiltshire 20 yards out central, looks to strike it early, leaning into her attempt as Wozniak comes to close her down, screws her effort off target. The clock ticking down into stoppage time Simmons brought down giving Cambridge one last opportunity to play the ball into the box, Cheal-Ferris from the left sending it in angled in straight, Gunn up to claim it looks to get her team on the attack. Heil right side up the wing her cross into Lanza outside the box defended.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-4 London Bees

  The final whistle blows and London Bees claim the 3 points to extend their unbeaten run in the league to 5 matches moving above Cambridge in the process into 5th spot. A strong away performance from start to first. Aimee Durn’s run from midfield leading to the opening goal inside the opening minute, put Cambridge on the canvas and they never recovered, the visitors winning the ball well getting players forwards, Lee and Hoare attacking down the wings at will early on a 2nd goal inside 10 minutes from Lee, Wozniak with a charge to head home the 3rd on the half hour. Hoare curling home their 4th in the 2nd half. A day to forget for Cambridge, looked a lose one on paper and on another day this is a performance they themselves are capable off, can only move on to the next one look to put thing’s right.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders as is often the case but had one name in mind leaving the ground and the notes have confirmed that. Some performances to mention, firstly for Cambridge, a hard day at the office, however goalkeeper Lauren Webb pulled off some brilliant saves to keep the score-line down in both halves. Eva Hubbard battled hard in the middle without the reward. Bella Simmons getting back to help win the ball trying to turn play around. For London Bees both centre backs were composed, Cheyenne Flynn and Rebekah Wozniak with some good challenges the latter scoring. Aimee Durn setting the tone early on with her bursting run through the middle setting her team on their way, got about in the middle to win the ball, making several strong attacking runs. Sophie Lee a threat on the right surging on in behind kept Cambridge on the back foot, on the score sheet. So too her opposite number on the left flank, Hayley Hoare with some strong running on the left, skill on the ball and a threat with her set-pieces throughout is the winner of today’s award.

  Results elsewhere see the league bunch up even more with Norwich drawing with real Bedford and 2nd placed Actonians losing out Dulwich Hamlet. Cambridge down to 9th but still just 2 points from the 3rd placed side, 5 behind the leaders. London Bees themselves now just 3 points behind the leaders. This is going to be an exciting title contest can’t wait to see it all unfold.

   A great performance from London Bees. Having seen them struggle so much in recent season’s it’s fantastic to finally see the club in a positive place, and I hope a positive future will certainly be up there based on what I saw today. Cambridge will be hurting, but I know what they are capable of too and am confident they’ll bounce back. My thanks to both clubs for there assistance today as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – AFC Sudbury Women v London Seaward FC

Sunday 11th February

FAWNL South East Division One

League action from the FAWNL this Sunday on Women’s Football East, a trip down into Suffolk for the South East Division One clash between AFC Sudbury Women and London Seaward FC.

Another bout of heavy overnight rain following on from a wet week seeing a large number of this weekends fixtures fall foul to the weather AFC Sudbury FC’s MEL Group Stadium boasting an artificial playing surface one of the games to beat the weather. The flood plains full around Sudbury since last November remain high backing onto the ground with the area behind the home dugout and terraced still partially flooded.

The FAWNL South East Division One table taking shape now as we head into February with the teams fighting at both ends of the table being defined, AFC Sudbury Women unfortunately finding themselves in the relegation scrap at the foot of the table and with Chesham United Ladies edging themselves 6 points clear of the bottom three, it looks to be a contest between Sudbury, Cambridge City Women and Haywards Heath Town Women both in the bottom two to avoid the drop.

AFC Sudbury Women competing in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid for the 1st time in their history as they secured back to back promotions in the ERWFL. The women’s side very much a part of the club as a whole with Sudbury setting up a academy to development young players for the clubs senior teams. Sudbury amongst the leading clubs in Suffolk. Have found it tough playing in the FAWNL coming up against some very strong sides, on the whole featuring in some competitive matches without getting the points on the board with just 6 so far coming from a single win and 3 draws. Games beginning to run out have some crucial fixtures against the sides at the bottom to come and will be looking to make home advantage count. Goals harder to come by in the FAWNL with just 18 racked up so far compared to 69 during their promotion winning campaign in the ERWFL Premier Division. Sophie Jeffery top scorer with 4 goals.

London Seaward FC formed off the back of the  Leyton Orient side that had fought their way up to the FAWNL. Leyton Orient choosing to take their women’s side in a different direction, the women’s team became a stand alone independently run club renamed London Seaward FC and have worked had on and off the pitch to retain their place in the league. Facing the many challenges that some with it, building a strong playing squad backed up by a reserves team. Come into today’s match in 8th position having a healthy gap on the sides below them and well placed to make a push for the top half of the table. Shamoy Campbell the clubs to scorer so far on 7 goals with Megan Jarvis scoring 6 and Sam Lanza 5 respectfully.

  The MEL Group stadium a hive of activity featuring a busy day of football with 4 fixtures to be played. The clubhouse and bar opening offering a roast chicken dinner and pint for £10. The kitchen open too serving hot food and drinks. Covered standing behind both goals with a seated stand beside the clubhouse and a terraced stand my favoured position on the opposite side behind the dugouts, knew where the flooded area might be so headed off in the opposite direction to get set up. A brighter sunny afternoon after the overnight rain with some cloud cover.

AFC Sudbury Women

AFC Sudbury Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Ronni Harrison (C), Sophie Jeffery, Amy Jarvis, Aliyat Lambe, Leonnie Bezant, Ava Jouvenel, Maisie Goodwin, Eva Frazzoni, Jessica Allen & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Amber Provan, Jodie Donley, Kayleigh Dodd, Chloe Brame & Alex Penny.

London Seaward FC

London Seward FC starting XI – Tia Ginn, Mira Hoteit, Livia Capparelli, Lucy Cockerill, Ellie Finneran, Liz Mulvaney, Maisie Cannon, Megan Burrows, Sarah McDermott, Rea Thomas-Arayo & Katherine Long. Subs – Ylenia Carabott, Sam Lanza & Kelsey Smith.

Captains, Maisie Cannon and Ronni Harrison with today’s match officials

  It’s the hosts Sudbury to kick-off the 1st half wearing yellow coloured shirts and socks with blue coloured shorts. London Seaward lined up opposite wearing teal coloured shirts with a swirled pattern on the front, with navy coloured shorts and socks. The back played back to the defence out to Sophie Jeffery on the left, London seaward race forwards to press the ball, Megan Burrows putting in the challenge seeing the ball deflected out for a throw in to the visitors high on the right.

 Sudbury’s defence deal with the ball turned into the area cleared long up to the right for Jessica Allen to attack, London Seaward full back, Mira Hoteit getting across her to safely pass the ball back to her goalkeeper, Tia Ginn to control and put out to the right side. Playing the ball confidently across the back line Sudbury have an opportunity to press as the pass forwards is delayed but the visitors move it quickly between one another waiting for the right opportunity to attack.

Sudbury captain, Ronni Harrison

  Played forwards Amy Jarvis heads the ball clear for Sudbury at the back out to the right for her captain Ronni Harrison to bomb forwards, her cross chipped up, blocked by London seaward captain, Maisie Cannon. The ball played long with Burrows making a strong run forwards on the right, looks to take on Jeffery the defender standing up well as she puts in the blocking challenge. 

  London seaward making a positive start moving the ball across their back line opening up the pitch with attacker making dynamic runs, Livia Capparelli getting forwards out on the right going beyond Burrows to attack the by-line her cross blocked and carried out of play for a corner by Sudbury’s Aliyat Lambe at the near post. Players up for the corner on the right as cannon plays the ball into the box, Rea Thomas-Arayo heading it from the top of the box back out to Cannon to send in a 2nd cross, cut out by Lambe, Ellie Finneran up for London Seaward right corner of the Sudbury area looking to keep the attack alive getting hold of the ball and trying to power her way inside, closed down the ball deflected off her for a goal kick.

Sudbury’s Aliyat Lambe

  London Seward causing Sudbury a few problems in the opening stages their forward runs threatening to cut the defence open, players looking to burst in behind, Burrow in particular. Capparelli on the move with the ball on the right jinks inside 25 yards out pushing into the D, Ava Jouvenel tracking back from midfield in position to tackle and win the ball back for the hosts. Sudbury counter the diagonal ball finding Allen wide on the right travelling at pace sweeps a looping cross into the London seaward area, bouncing far post Maisie Goodwin can’t make up the ground to attack it as it runs safely out of play.

  Dropping back London Seaward are comfortable in position with Ginn making it effectively 5 at the back stroking the ball out to her defenders tempting Sudbury to come on, occasionally risky especially with Victoria Leyer playing up top today, dual signed from Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women snapping in looking to force an error take advantage.

 Leonnie Bezant getting hold of the ball in the middle for Sudbury chipping the pass out to Allen on the right her cross lifted into the box headed away by Lucy Cockerill for the visitors. Sudbury appealing strongly at the officials as Eva Frazzoni appears to be pushed over inside the D, the appeals waved away. 

Leonnie Bezant

  Bezant finding Allen out on the right again the cross defended by Finneran at the near post as, Frazzoni jumps in. Cleared back out to the right the 2nd attempt at playing the ball into the area also dealt with by Finneran.

 GOAL! London Seaward break out from the back quickly Liz Mulvaney playing a great ball forwards into the path of Capparelli as she surges away down the right wing in behind the full back tracking into the area whips a vicious ball in across the face of goal. players queuing up to turn it in at the far post, Thomas-Arayo with the touch to put the ball over the line to open the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes 0-1.

Rea Thomas-Arayo celebrates after opening the scoring for London Seaward

 Sudbury carved open for the goal look to get on the attack from the restart London Seaward closing the ball down played on for Burrows, stays on her feet as her heels a clipped before lifting the ball out to Thomas-Arayo attacking down the left her cross lifted into the area, headed clear by Lambe. 

 Ginn comes rushing out of her area alert as her defence is caught high turned by a long ball played through the middle. Frazzoni seeing the ball into her feet in the right channel for Sudbury skips on looking to attack the box, stopped by Cockerill inside the D. 

GOAL! Sudbury’s defence is cut open for a 2nd time as Capparelli breaks in behind on the right taking the ball all the way to the by-line check inside to flash ball in across the face of goal, goalkeeper Millie Carter goes down trying to grab onto it even as Thomas-Arayo closes it down the ball not claimed bundled over the line, Thomas-Arayo linking up with Capparelli for the 2nd time to double London Seaward’s lead 0-2.

Livia Capparelli

Rea Thomas-Arayo combining with Livia Capparelli for London Seaward’s 2nd goal

  Attacking on the right Harrison puts the ball on for Leyer to turn on the angle and strike from 25 yards out, struck with some pace, Ginn reacts sharply plucking the ball down into the ground as she falls back and collecting it cleanly on the bounce. Jeffery looking to get on down the left of Sudbury playing the ball off Goodwin before taking it on towards the area, Finneran tackling to win the ball back for London Seaward. 

Maisie Goodwin

GOAL! London Seaward finding the spaces in behind to exploit the Sudbury defence the ball send forwards quickly out to Katherine long on the left side wide of the area, Carter comes rushing out to try and close her down the striker chipping her shot up over the keeper to see it bounce into the exposed goal beyond to make it 0-3.

Katherine Long sending the ball over the advancing keeper to make it 3-0

 London Seaward racing into a 3 goal lead inside the opening 20 minutes looking dangerous breaking forwards the ball up towards the top of the area left side knocked down by Thomas-Arayo into the path of Long central to hit from 25 yards out drives her effort wide of the right post. Capparelli playing the ball on for Burrows dribbling into a central area lays the pass on for Long breaking free of the defence on the right channel to attack the goal, on the angle sends her rising shot straight at the keeper.

  The visitors threatening to overwhelm Sudbury as they play the ball on through the middle out to the right, Jeffery jumping to try and get her head on the ball can only get a glancing touch seeing in drop in behind with Burrows sprinting after it into the area, Lambe getting back superbly to make the blocking tackle on the by-line holding Burrows off as she gets the ball back for Carter to clear. Carter down for a moment needing treatment a pause for both sides to come to the bench take on fluids get instructions

Sudbury goalkeeper, Millie Carter

 Carter back up on her feet is okay and soon called into action as Mulvaney plays Burrows through into the box on the right, Carter coming to close her down saving at her feet the ball deflected out to the left cleared by Harrison. Sudbury looking to find something to get them back into the game build on the right Allen laying it back for Harrison so sweep a high cross into the area, Leyer positioned on the penalty spot looking to strike it on the volley Finneran charging her down to block. 

London Seaward defender, Ellie Finneran

GOAL! Sending the ball on through the middle with pace, Long turns to send the ball through for Burrows running in behind into the area twisting and turning, evading a challenge as Carter comes to dive at her feet, can’t get the ball as Burrows takes it to her left and drives the ball into the back of the net 0-4.

Megan Burrow sends London Seaward into a 4 goal lead

  Half an hour played and London Seaward are firmly in control of the game, stretching Sudbury the hosts keep going looking for an opening Allen forwards for Leyer, Finneran intercepting the pass for London Seaward. Jouvenel nipping in to win it back for the hosts the pass out to Allen drifting right her dipping cross claimed by Ginn as she drops onto the ball at her near post.

 

   Jarvis taking the ball forwards for Sudbury plays the pass inside for Leyer 30 yards out central turns on the ball to strike a powerful shot wide past the left post. Bezant turning well on the ball to evade a tackle lifts her pass out to Allen on the right 25 yards out on the angle sends her shot straight into the keepers gloves.  

  Sudbury coming on well enough kept out of the area by a well organised London Seaward defence, Mulvaney, Cannon and McDermott all getting back to win the ball back. Jouvenel moving out to the left win the ball is hauled to the ground Sudbury winning their first free-kick of the game. 35 yards out Jeffery over the ball, sends it in high towards goal with runners positioned top of the area, back on her line though it is a straight forward catch for Ginn.

  Coming forwards with purpose the ball played into Long sends it on for Thomas-Arayo attacking on the right, Goodwin getting back on her well to defend of Sudbury 25 yards out the winger then fouled as Thomas-Arayo looks to regain possession. Jeffery looking to get forwards on the left side, pushing down the line Finneran going with her to see the ball safely out of play for the goal kick. 

Eva Frazzoni

 Allen pressing the ball wins it back high on the right her cross played into the box for Leyer near side, Cockerill defends for London Seaward cleared for a throw on the right the ball floated back into the box, Jouvenel looking to get it down to shoot is closed down quickly her attempt blocked. Sudbury winning a corner on the right off Finneran, an in swinging ball punched clear by keeper, Ginn as she rises amongst the crowd inside her six yard box. Play stretched as Sudbury look to push on seeking something from the first half London Seaward breaking right Capparelli racing to the by-line Goodwin going with her the cross struck hard against the defender Goodwin down in need of treatment, needs to come off, Alex Penny coming on. 

Hoteit able to come on with the ball left side for London Seaward striking the ball on the angle from the top of the area wide past the far post. Frazzoni opening up her body to play the pass into Penny looking to get on down the wing, Mulvaney getting her body across the attacker to see the ball back to her keeper. McDermott fouls Frazzoni 25 yards out giving Sudbury a free-kick right of the D. The shot taken on, Ginn dropping low to her left getting behind the ball to save on her line.

London Seaward goalkeeper, Tia Ginn

  Capparelli bursts down the right for London seaward to the by-line her cross cut back into the six yard box cut out by Lambe, cleared by Bezant. Jarvis intercepting the cross-field pass intended for Thomas-Arayo breaking in behind on the left. The clock ticking down in the first half Sudbury mounting one last attack Frazzoni through the middle on for Leyer bursting into the area right of the D, Ginn rushing out to close her down saving well at her feet before grabbing the ball into her gloves. 

Half-time AFC Sudbury Women 0-4 London Seaward FC

  A strong first half from London Seaward sees the visitors leading 4-0 at the break. Started on the front foot moving the ball well and the back releasing players forwards finding gaps in behind the Sudbury defence, easy pickings at times taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes before quickly racing into a 3 goal advantage. Sudbury chasing the game creating a few half chances but the London Seaward defence has been organised prepared to pay the ball out from the back starting with their goalkeeper waiting for the right moment to burst forwards. Far from the first half Sudbury would have desired and know they have a mountain to climb in the 2nd half if they are hoping to take anything from the game.

 No changes for either side at the break as the floodlights come on the cloud cover a little more pronounced. London Seaward to get the 2nd half underway the ball rolled back to the defence Sudbury operating with Allen now wide left Penny on the right push forwards to press the ball, Penny right with Leyer on Finneran the ball out for a throw played back into the top of the area cleared by Cannon. 

Alex Penny

  A positive start to the 2nd half from Sudbury Jouvenel linking up with Frazzoni playing the one two on the right Jouvenel taking the ball all the way to the by-line playing it into Leyer at the near post back to goal lays it off for the onrushing Frazzoni to strike a rising shot over the crossbar. 

  Mulvaney clears the ball for London Seaward up to Long pulling out into the left channel looking to take it on plays the pass inside with the outside of her boot looking to pick out Burrows surging on through the middle, Jeffery going with her getting something on the ball to take it away from her for a throw on the right. 

 Sudbury lively in the final 3rd at the start of the 2nd half, Leyer inside the box charging down Ginn’s kick out, the ball loose inside the six yard box, Ginn scrambling for it as Leyer attempts to snatch a shot away gets a glove to the ball to haul it into her body. Ginn then holding onto a shot from distance struck from all of 30 yards out. Sudbury pressing well Jouvenel driving for the box left of the D is upended by Finneran a clumsy looking foul, Sudbury appealing the decision a free-kick right on the line outside the area. Jeffery over it left of the D, fires her shot over.

Sudbury’s Ava Jouvenel

  Sudbury looking a different side taking the game to London Seaward who can afford to sit back wait for the right moment to attack, Hoteit’s long pass on the left too strong for Thomas-Arayo. Leyer and Penny combining on the right to win the ball for Sudbury off Thomas-Arayo she snaps back at Penny giving the foul away and shown the yellow card is also sent to the sin bin leaving London Seaward down to 10 for the next 10 minutes. Jeffery to curl an inviting ball into the six yard box, however it his claimed high by Ginn unopposed at her far post.

 London Seaward bring the ball forwards played on for Long in the left channel has McDermott inside giving her the ball she plays it out to Hoteit getting on down the left, Penny tracking back with Harrison regains possession for the hosts. A competitive 2nd period, Sudbury making a 2nd change bringing off Jouvenel on in her place Chloe Brame. Sudbury attack down the left Jeffery into Allen the cross into the box cleared by Cockerill. Jeffery going beyond Allen to the by-line sees her crossed claimed by Ginn at her near post. 

 Leyer plays the ball back for Bezant, put out to Sudbury’s left with Jeffery getting forwards her cross looped into the area, Brame central can’t get it down to control, before being closed down by Cockerill. London Seaward making their first change bringing on Sam Lanza to replace McDermott. A host of changes follow as Sudbury make a change sending on Jodie Donley on for Harrison. London Seaward deciding to bring on Kelsey Smith in place of Capparelli. Lanza linking up with Long on the left as the pair look to gain ground, Jarvis getting in to tackle Lanza to win the ball back for the hosts. 

GOAL! Sudbury attacking down the left the ball rolled on for Leyer who comes inside the box six yards out, Ginn coming to close her down at her feet as Leyer moves the ball, the keeper failing to get hold of the ball is grounded as it runs on for Brame central, can’t get to her as she strikes the ball into the empty net 1-4.

Chloe Brame getting a goal back for Sudbury

  A goal back for Sudbury capitalising on the strong start to the 2nd half positive taking the game on asking a few questions of the visiting defence. Thomas-Arayo re-joining the action London Seaward back up to 11 as Sudbury make a substitution bringing on Kayleigh Dodd for Allen with 67 minutes played. All action Sudbury gaining some confidence pushing players up the ball lifted into the area knocked out to the right Dodd looking to latch onto the ball, Ginn rushing out to make the blocking save at her feet. Ylenia Carabott coming on for London Seaward in place of Long up top. 

 GOAL! Sudbury have the ball on the right Penny over on that side now combining with, Jeffery the ball lifted into the area into the path of Leyer who has 18 goals this season for Dussindale & Hellesdon, put through on goal she rides Cockerill’s challenge before coolly lifting the ball over the advancing keeper to pull a 2nd goal back for the hosts 2-4.

Victoria Leyer through on goal to score a 2nd for Sudbury

  Dodd down after a heavy challenge winning Sudbury a free-kick on the right. From deep Jeffery looks to send it long to the far post over everyone takes a glancing touch off a defender out for a corner on the left. Another in-swinger curled into the crowded near post, Ginn up well to get a fist on the ball to punch it to safety. Sudbury with their tails up the game moving into the final 15 minutes. London Seaward needing to regain their momentum.

Kayleigh Dodd with Liz Mulvaney

 Burrows puling away to the left attacking for London Seaward fouled by Jarvis, the defender getting a taking too as Cannon places the ball down ready to deliver into the area, Carter fouled as she goes to claim the ball the host getting the free-kick. Getting a little tasty out there emotions running high, the Sudbury management team unhappy with a few decisions. Carabott taking the ball left has Thomas-Arayo ahead of her making the run into the area the ball rolled in behind, Carter out quickly to make the save at the attackers feet.

  London Seaward winning a free-kick wide on the left the ball threatening to go over everyone, Lambe looking to see it out goes behind a corner awarded much to Sudbury’s disapproval. Put in from the left Mulvaney rising gets a glancing header on the ball but can’t direct her effort on target as it runs wide past the right post. Sudbury with another change bringing on Amber Provan for Lambe.

  Tempers flaring as Mulvaney is fouled, London Seaward looking to push on take the pressure off their defence keep Sudbury turned the wrong way as the game moves into the final 10 minutes. Hoteit up on the left plays the ball into Lanza who in turn release Thomas-Arayo wide on the wing the flash a cross into the area, goes long across the top of the six yard box Carter after it down to smother the ball before anyone can pounce from the right.

  Burrows coming on with the ball left plays it inside for Mulvaney getting on through the middle, she in turn is challenged by Frazzoni top of the D for Sudbury. London Seaward win a corner on the right send players up into the box is a good delivery swung in on goal Carter doing well getting up through a crowd to punch the ball away, Sudbury look to break, Penny through the middle however Lanza does superbly well to stay on her lunging in to steal the ball back keep the momentum with the visitors. The sun setting low behind the goal London Seaward are attacking.

  A highly competitive finish to the game London Seaward wanting to keep Sudbury away from their box, Mulvaney winning possession back in the middle, Thomas-Arayo the outlet on the left. The game heading into stoppage time. A free-kick eventually awarded for London Seaward after Thomas-Arayo is fouled by Frazzoni in a central position before gaining no advantage taking the ball out to the left. Emotions running high Sudbury angered by the time taken to make the decision. The free-kick stands Cockerill floated the ball in to the far post Carter comes but can’t reach it as it’s knocked behind for a corner.

London Seaward’s Liz Mulvaney

  Swept in towards the near post headed back out to the right the 2nd attempt lifted in high to the far post, Hoteit getting up to head the ball down puts it straight into the keeper. 

 

  Provan defending for Sudbury as the ball is crossed into the area from the right. London Seaward getting players forwards in the latter stage Mulvaney out to Hoteit breaking on the left wing her cross in behind sees the offside flag raised. Sudbury moving the ball quickly, Cannon breaking up a move for London Seaward played into Mulvaney out to Thomas-Arayo left side put infield for Lanza, fouled the advantage played as the ball runs on for Carabott top of the area, Jarvis tackling to regain possession for Sudbury, the defender then fouled giving Sudbury the free-kick. 

Sudbury defender, Amy Jarvis

 London Seaward doing well to keep the ball away from their area in the closing moments of the match, Provan’s ball from the right headed clear by Cockerill as the referee blows the final whistle to signal the end of the match. London Seaward taking home the 3 points.

Full time AFC Sudbury Women 2-4 London Seaward FC

A strong fightback from Sudbury in the 2nd half restoring some pride as they pressed the ball high creating several good opportunities, putting the visiting defence under pressure to score twice to threaten a comeback. London Seaward responded by getting out to take the game to their opponents keep them away from their area look to fin d a 5th goal themselves. Ultimately though the damage done in the opening 20 minutes London Seaward with a strong start to the match racing into a 3 goal lead adding a 4th before the break. Had control of the game. Doesn’t change much at the bottom of the table with Cambridge City losing at home to Ashford and Hayward Heath not playing due to the weather, Sudbury remain 10th out of the relegation zone on goal difference (just) some big games to come. London Seaward stay 8th but right in contention with those in the middle of the table.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual is another tough call some strong performances to consider. A few to mention firstly for Sudbury fought back well in the 2nd half, Alex Penny making a difference coming off the bench. Chloe Brame too with some strong runs forwards, Victoria Leyer getting about up top looking to create an opportunity bringing others into play. For London Seaward, Ellie Finneran had a good game at the back making several important tackles and getting across to win the ball. Liz Mulvaney winning the ball in the middle of the park pushing on finding her teammates with some great passing. Livia Capparelli storming forwards with the ball on the right certainly caused Sudbury some issues leading to the opening goals. Rea Thomas-Arayo attacking down the left getting in behind opening the scoring and was a constant threat. The award though goes to Megan Burrows her runs especially in the first half served to expose the hosts defence and provided a fantastic outlet for the forwards pass getting in behind on a number of occasions and took her goal well.

  Another good day out at the MEL Group stadium, very welcoming a tough season for Sudbury but one their young squad will be all the stronger for. Good to catch up with London Seaward too haven’t seen the since before Covid for various reasons. An entertaining contest from the FAWNL thanks to both for all their assistance today.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage FC Women

Wednesday 30th March

FAWNL South East Division One

 A midweek trip to St Neots Town FC for a game under the lights from FAWNL South East Division One with Cambridge United WFC taking on Stevenage FC Women.

 A big game for both with Stevenage FC Women in the relegation zone giving themselves a fighting chance picking up vital points at the close end of the season away to 7th place Cambridge United WFC who have lost there last 3 in the league to keep them a little too close to the scrap at the bottom for comfort.

 Cambridge though know that a win changes everything, sees them comfortable in mid-table clear of what is likely a scrap at the bottom that will go all the way to the wire. Consistency has been a problem for Cambridge all season have assembled a decent squad who are more than capable on their day. Have had a few off days however that is proving a quandary, a run of 3 straight defeats taking the gloss off their season, looking well clear of the danger zone the points tally drying up whilst those below have picked up some vital wins against each other has seen the gap close to just 5 points. Have a number of players out through illness and injury including captain, Laura Baker and full back Carrie Bennett with a further 4 first team players missing. That though a great opportunity for those amongst the squad to put on a performance.

  Stevenage FC Women were looking dead and buried adrift 2nd bottom on the FAWNL South East Division One table just over 5 weeks ago 3 wins against their relegation rivals with 9 points collected from 12 has seen them push themselves back up amongst the competition moving onto 18 points taking them to within 3 points of possible safety. 3 games left to play Stevenage’s end of season for could yet pull them to safety. That good form also  seeing Stevenage regain the Hertfordshire County Cup 10 days ago.

 Both Cambridge and Stevenage suffering 4-0 home losses at the weekend against the Essex sides vying for the title, Billericay Town Women and Hashtag United Women.

 St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for this evenings game. The rain forecast coming later in the day and not as much as predicted meaning the game wasn’t in danger of getting called off as was the case after heavy rain a 3 weeks ago for Cambridge derby. Light rain falling as I arrived at the ground but that would clear. The temperature dropping sharply however with a return to wintery conditions after what has been a relative heat wave at the start of the week. The grass pitch offering plenty off width.

Cambridge United WFC

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Anna Re, Abbi Griffin, Rachel Kosky, Lauren Rouse, Faith Hewitt, Gisella Otten (C), Emma Jenkins, Abi Davies, Laura Mitchell & Ruth Fox. Subs – Kira Markwell, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Ella Marden, Charlotte Crisp & Nicole Emmings.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Lucy Webster (C), Hannah Nebbitt, Vicky Neal, Chloe Gunn, Shianne Swarres, Holly Greenwood, Jodie Bellinger, Kate French, Emily Schofield & Amy Makewell. Subs – Shakeela Hussain, Jodie Southby, Dionne Manning, Poppy Bennett & Louise Godden

It’s Stevenage to get this evening encounter underway kicking off the 1st half, wearing white shirts with red sleeves, red shorts and socks with Cambridge opposite line up wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts an socks. The ball played back to the defence sent long out to the right wing, players racing forward, Emma Jenkins getting hold of it for Cambridge, moves forwards, Amy Makewell closing down tackling to win the ball back for Stevenage lays it out wide right for Jodie Bellinger on the flank, turns inside reaching the area before putting her foot through the ball, her attempt blocked by Cambridge’s Abbi Griffin going out for a throw.

  Stevenage pushing forwards at the start of the game looking to take the game to Cambridge, keeping the hosts pinned back in their own half. Laura Mitchell taking the ball on for Cambridge powering forwards on the left moves inside getting all the way top the top of the box before Chloe Gunn gets across her well to defend able to shield the ball as goalkeeper, Tea Oldroyd comes to claim dropping to smother the ball. Both full backs for Stevenage looking to get on in support on the wings, captain Lucy Webster on the right, Hannah Nebbitt on the left a throw won high on the left the ball lifted on into the box, Emily Schofield up at the near post with a glancing header aiming to send it on, Rachel Kosky cutting it out at the back for Cambridge, a recent addition to the squad clearing the ball into midfield. 

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

  A tussle in the middle of the park, saw Shianne Swarres tackling and breaking up play at the Hertfordshire County Cup final, is playing in the same vein this evening and with Cambridge’s Gisella Otten captaining the side this evening in the middle too it will be an interesting contest to watch. The ball fed to Abi Davies right side she plays it inside for attacker Ruth Fox her foot up attempting to bring the ball down as a Stevenage player stoops into the header caught the decision going Stevenage’s way a free-kick on half way. Webster putting the ball in towards the top of the box, won and cleared by Otten. 

Cambridge captain, Gisella Otten

  Both sides not settled yet play bitty at times as passes are rushed, the opposition closing each other down the ball toing and froing between defences. Swarres digging the ball out from under her feet on halfway clipping a great ball forwards for Bellinger to attacker running clear. Lauren Webb with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to scoop the ball up into her gloves. Otten in midfield out to Davies right played up into Fox she turns looking to take on the defence, Vicky Neal close at hand to get her foot on the ball take it away from her. 

  A positive break for Cambridge on the left Jenkins winning it short to Fox with Laura Mitchell to her right taking it on up the wing, riding a Swarres tackle continues her run, Amy Makewell tracking back well for Stevenage catching Mitchell, tackling to halt the attack. Kosky dealing with the threat at the back as Holly Greenwood lifts a ball onto Schofield up top coming through the centre. Nebbitt up with Kate French on the left a free-kick won deep as good as a corner, plenty packed into the area in front of goal the ball floated into the mix the referee spotting an infringement however Cambridge have the free-kick. 

  A strong run on the ball from Schofield for Stevenage through the middle lifting it on into the box with the outside of her boot, won back by Kosky. Good pressure applied by Stevenage  going forwards finding their rhythm quicker than Cambridge. Griffin able to get on with the ball on the left for Cambridge with Jenkins crossed in the clearance won back in the middle, clipped back up to the top of the area Neal heading it away, Cambridge snapping at the ball getting it back on over the top but play halted by a raised flag. 

Nebbitt attacking on the left delivering a high cross in towards the near post, watched well by Webb at her near post, taking the catch. Webster up on the right with Bellinger off a throw the a great cross flashed through the six yard box players attacking far post, none getting a telling touch. Stevenage strong on the left getting on well, Anna Re stepping in with the tackle getting hold of the ball for Cambridge on for Davies puts it long looking for Fox, too much though as Oldroyd can come out and claim the ball. Davies finding some space on the right flank a good touch seeing her take the ball on up the line before delivering a great cross in towards the neat post Mitchell sliding into the six posting connecting putting the ball wide of the post.

  Midway through the 2nd half and it remains a cagey affair with neither side finding a break through, Greenwood with Swarres on up to Schofield up to looking to bring the ball down and turn at attack, Kosky marking backing off giving herself the opportunity to clear the dropping ball. Swarres tackling in the middle threading it through the middle, Kosky composed seeing it back to her keeper as both Schofield and Makewell give chase. Davies carrying a threat on the right for Cambridge with a driving run on the ball before firing an angled strike wide across goal. 

Amy Makewell

Swarres tackling winning possession shifts the ball between her feet letting fly from 20 plus yard out, Lauren Rouse stepping forwards to put in the block for Cambridge. The hosts awarded a free kick 30 yards out to the right of the Stevenage area the delivery long to the far post Jenkins getting her head to the ball. falls straight to the keeper. Cambridge winning the ball high on the left attack the ball squared across the top of the D, Davies, right side a shot driven in along the ground the ball skipping up in front of Oldroyd she gathers cleanly with Fox closing in. 

Kosky winning the ball at the back for Cambridge cleared out to the right Davies forwards with support from Fox who takes the ball on fire in ear post Mitchell arriving the ball turned wide of the goal. Greenwood on for Makewell through the centre attempting the through ball for Schofield, Kosky stabbing out a boot to push the ball away from the attacker. Stevenage come on Makewell out for French on the right running down the line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross in looping up swerves over the crossbar. The game livening up towards the end of the 1st half Stevenage getting players up, Fox attacking tries to find Jenkins to her left, Webster in to tackle for Stevenage.

  Cambridge in the corner on the left Mitchell back to Jenkins lays the ball in central with Griffin up in an advanced position 20 yards out clips a shot up over the bar. Stevenage come left winning a free-kick 35 yards out. A teasing ball fired into the area sees Webb scrambling across her goal, the ball bouncing wide, a corner awarded much to Cambridge’s consternation. Nebbitt with an inswinging delivery from the right her effort coming back down off the crossbar, Makewell’s snap shot blocked the ball cleared Cambridge break a foul given as play is brought back following no advantage, Stevenage’s turn to be aggravated by a decision. The ball floated up to the top of the area well defended comes out to Schofield on halfway is one on one with only Griffin behind the ball, the full back needing to time her tackle well and does to prevent Schofield getting past to take a run at goal.

Davies taking the ball on well up the right flank whipping a cross into the box Oldroyd up making a spectacular grab to pluck the ball out of the air. Stevenage get on well down the left Nebbitt getting up the pitch to send in a great ball to the near post, Schofield up well twisting her body as she heads the ball, sending her attempt wide across the Cambridge goal.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

 The sides head into the changing rooms goalless at the break. An unsettled start from both sides, highly competitive in the middle. Stevenage the quicker to settle having the better of it getting players on down the flanks but haven’t tested Webb as yet Nebbitt’s inswinging corner hitting the bar there closest chance. Cambridge have competed well enough with Davies making some great runs on the right putting in some dangerous ball. Oldroyd like Webb at the other end relatively untroubled however. 

  Is getting colder by the minute as the sides emerge for the 2nd half a big 45 to come with both wanting the points. No changes as yet Cambridge to get the 2nd period underway the ball lifted long to the left Webster seeing it out for a throw. Kosky at the back on for Mitchell central plays it back to Re on the left forwards down the line for Davies, Nebbitt defending the ball going for a throw. A tentative start to the 2nd half players quick to close the ball down rushing forwards passes. 

Cambridge’s Abi Davies

 Mitchell central the hosts breaking with players running on Gunn moving out to deal with the threat on the left as Jenkins looks to take the ball on out for a throw. Mitchell getting hold of the ball running on central Fox ahead of her into the left channel, Mitchell running beyond her making for the box as Fox finds Jenkins on the left to lift a ball into the box, Nebbitt defending on the penalty spot to ensure Mitchell can’t get a touch to turn it goalwards. Neal on Fox left side to see the ball out for a throw in the corner. Cambridge showing more intent in the 2nd half. 

Stevenage’s Vicky Neal

 Stevenage come away with the ball moving right the crossfield pass well placed picking out French on the move on the left side, Re closing in defending at the top of the area for Cambridge. The sides less cagey no the tempo risen wanting the ball played on quicker my well invite a mistake. A crossfield ball played left to right knocked down well by Davies moving wide her cross deflecting behind off a defender for a corner kick. The ball played in to the top of the area put back to Jenkins out wide, Neal moving out to press Jenkins turning for the by-line digs a cross out the ball cut out at the near post. 

Stevenage’s Kate French

  Kosky getting across Schofield shields the ball back to Webb as it it put on from midfield. Mitchel attacking on the left tackled by Gunn the ball played up to French advancing on the left driving on into the area, Kosky with a great challenge to deny the shot. An hour played Stevenage make a double change with Jodie Southby and Louise Godden on for Nebbitt and Makewell respectfully. Hewitt in the middle playing the pass on for Davies right down the line checking inside heading for the box lays it back to Hewitt 25 yards out sends a high ball up into the area, Oldroyd up to claim holds onto the ball despite being taken out Gunn marking Fox.

  Godden getting back pressing the ball into Swarres moving left on the left up for French wins her side a corner. Everyone lined up beyond the far post the delivery sent into the mix is cleared by Cambridge, play stopped due to a head injury for a Cambridge player. Swarres moving out right slowing down Re as she looks to break with Davies on the wing. Mitchell working form midfield seeing more of the ball for Cambridge almost threads a pass through to Jenkin’s up top, Neal in well to get a foot on the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick out wide left dropping top of the D to Otten on the turn does quite catch the whole of the ball seeing it lack the pace needed to beat Oldroyd as it skips through to goal. 

 Schofield central playing the pass out to French on the left into the corner works a cross into the area the ball cleared out to the right, Bellinger racing onto it 25 yards out Hewitt there to block as she smashes the ball. Cambridge make their first change with Rouse coming off at the back to be replaced by Kayleigh-Anne Burt returning to the 1st team after a lengthy layoff through injury. Stevenage too making another change Schofield coming off for Dionne Manning. Mitchell travelling with the ball out for Davies to her right looking to go on Southby into her to tackle the ball out for a throw.

  20 minutes left to play no side on top yet, Cambridge carrying the threat 2nd half. Hewitt 25 yards out seeing a goal bound attempt blocked. Jenkins with a shot from distance on the left rolling wide. A time out both sides coming over to the benches with Godden needing treatment for Stevenage. Okay to continue Cambridge on the right Fox up with Davies the cross into the area cleared by Neal. Stevenage with a free-kick wide right, cleared for a throw in the corner put back up the line an angled ball lifted into the box, Webb down to claim low at French’s feet as she closes in. A 2nd change for Cambridge, Fox coming off for Nicole Emmings now back at Cambridge after 4 season’s with Stevenage. Shakeela Hussain also on for Stevenage in place of Bellinger.

 Into the final 10 minutes, the ball cleared from the Stevenage area is loose there to be won, Jenkins sliding in getting the ball but catching the foot of the Stevenage player attempting to clear coming the other way with her trailing leg. The Cambridge bench unhappy as Jenkins goes into the book. Mitchell attacking right with Davies, Gunn closing in to tackle, Emmings getting the ball back for Cambridge from the right sends a cross along the face of goal Jenkins coming in beyond the back stick unable to get a touch, the ball cleared into the middle Hewitt latching onto it 25 yards out sending a shot back in the effort blocked. Players down for Stevenage seeing a pause in play.

Cambridge’s Faith Hewitt

  Hewitt on for Otten through the middle for Cambridge onto Jenkins left channel, Swarres back to tackle for the visitors. The ball lifted forwards Godden peeling left attacking is halted by Burt. Jenkins on the ball left checking inside, closed down ends up committing a foul, called over by the referee is in trouble having only been booked minutes before as players scuffle beyond her. That broken up before the 2nd yellow card is issued and Jenkins is sent off Cambridge finishing the game with 10. No advantage for Stevenage however as they themselves are forced down to 10 with Webster needing to come off.

  Stevenage send everyone up into the box as they are awarded a free-kick wide left the clock ticking down one last push to fin a winning goal. In the end the high ball in is an easy claim for Webb. Godden getting on with the ball coming inside left, is tackled by Burt before she can reach the area. The hosts looking a little nervous as they drop back in the closing stages not wanting to concede. Burt fouled this time as Stevenage get the ball into Godden. Stevenage breaking in stoppage time the ball right into Godden sending on into the area, Webb rushing out to slide in to claim the ball in the nick of time, the offside flag up in any case. 

 Southby out left defending against Davies as she brings the ball on for Cambridge. Stevenage want to get forwards an altercation on the left seeing a free-kick awarded, Neal going into the book for voicing her opinion about a decision. A high ball into the Cambridge box defended seen out for a throw. The final whistle blowing the honours even.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Stevenage FC Women

 The points shared in the finish and overall a fair result a late winner for either would have been welcome but looked increasingly unlikely. Cambridge with the better of the 2nd period taking the game to Stevenage who had few opportunities. Again neither keeper overly tested, promising forward play the final ball not clinical. Cambridge the happier at the end with the clean sheet ending a run of defeats, with 3 left to play and with other results this evening aren’t likely to fall in the drop zone now. As you were in the bottom 4. Kent Football United’s tenure in the FAWNL coming to an end can’t escape now with 4 left to play. Stevenage 11th on 18 points remain 3 points from safety with 2 games left. Enfield Town Ladies in 9th on 21 points drawing with QPR. Stevenage away to Kent Football United before finishing their season at home to QPR can yet get out of trouble.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Is another tough one a battling display from both sides. Performances of note include Shianne Swarres in the middle for Stevenage with a number of tackles to disrupt Cambridge throughout the match. Vicky Neal composed at the back with Emily Schofield carrying a threat in attack. For Cambridge Abi Davies was a constant threat on the right side making a number of daring runs putting she dangerous crosses into the box. Laura Mitchell with the ball, attacking and getting hold of it in the centre in the 2nd half. The award though goes to defender Rachel Kosky. Cambridge’s new defensive signing with and assured and composed performance in defence, reading the game and winning the ball.

 A chilly night in St Neots, my own fault for leaving my hat and gloves behind in Norfolk. Successive 0-0, that is a rare occurrence to say the least but defences were on top this evening chances at a premium in a evenly fought contest. My thanks to both sides for the team details and their help, as always appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

The Round-Up – FAWNL 28/10/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 28th October

FAWNL Southern Premier Division

 Three games played in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this Sunday and with only one of the top 4 sides in action it was a chance for Chichester City Ladies up to the dizzy heights of 2nd to claim another 3 point haul and close the gap on leaders Coventry United Ladies to a single point. Back at home after six weeks Chichester were taking on Cardiff City Ladies who were unbeaten in the league since losing on the opening day, with games in hand on all the sides above them too. It was likely to be a close game Cardiff scoring on average 4 goals a game so far this season, Chichester with a good defensive record to match their good start to the season, Molly Clark scoring for the hosts late in the 1st half to give Chichester the lead. Solid in the 2nd half they became the 1st team of the season to prevent Cardiff scoring to win the game and close the gap on the leaders.

  Cardiff dropping down to 7th in the Southern Premier Division on the back of that defeat the sides below them getting positive results on. Oxford United Women up to 5th on the table with an away win on Sunday against bottom side C&K Basildon Ladies. Florence Fyfe with her 3rd goal of the season scoring to see Oxford lead the Essex side 1-0 in the 28th minute. The game far from settled Oxford defending their goal advantage made the result safe 2 minutes into stoppage time Fyfe netting her 2nd goal of the game to see Oxford return home with the win.

   A fantastic start to the season from newly promoted Loughborough Foxes Women 7 points from their opening 3 league games was followed by 4 straight defeats that run ending last Sunday with an away win over QPR Women in the FAWNL Cup. Looking to build on that result returned to league action at home to Milton Keynes Dons this Sunday. Captain Shauna Chambers firing Loughborough into the lead just past the half-hour. Charlotte Cooper putting the hosts 2-0 up late in the first half. Loughborough extending their lead 10 minutes into the 2nd half Eva Rogers getting on the scoresheet. 3 quickly became 4 Ria Acton scoring just a minute later. Acton brought down in the box, Laura Steele converting the penalty to see Loughborough 5-0 up with an hour played. Millie Chandarana adding a 6th goal in the final 15 minutes to see Loughborough win and climb back up into the top half of the table.

FAWNL Cup

 Two 2nd Round ties to be settled in the FAWNL Cup this weekend, both fixtures affected by the weather a fortnight ago. Cambridge United Women were drawn at home to fellow South East Division One side, Leyton Orient WFC. The visitors with chances in the 1st half to get themselves into the lead the sides drawing 0-0 at half-time however it was a hat-trick from Cambridge full-back, Emma Jenkins that sent the host side through. In the right place inside the box from a corner to head the ball home to put Cambridge into the lead. The lead doubled from another corner kick, Jenkins celebrating the hat-trick by getting onto the end of a free-kick to seal the win for Cambridge, who will now face AFC Wimbledon Ladies away from home in the 3rd Round.

A hat-trick for Cambridge United Women’s, Emma Jenkins

  In the other 2nd Round tie Southern Premier Division high-flyers Plymouth Argyle Ladies were on the road taking on Southampton Women currently leading South West Division One with a 100% winning start. A goal from Helen Bleazard the difference between the sides, Plymouth with the lead in the 36th minute. Southampton getting themselves back on level terms on the hour with Natalie Bavister firing the ball home to make it 1-1. The score level going into the final 10 minutes Jessie Jones with a late double to send Plymouth through to the 3rd Round finding the back of the net in the 84th minute to restore the visitors lead adding another in stoppage time to secure the win. A home tie against the unbeaten leaders of South East Division One awaits as Plymouth will take on Crawley Wasps Ladies.

  The full draw for the 3rd Round of the FAWNL Cup 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

Cardiff City Ladies v Loughborough Foxes Women

Chichester City Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

 Plymouth Argyle Ladies v Crawley Wasps Ladies

FAWNL South East Division One

Two games played in the FAWNL South East Division One this Sunday. Crawley Wasps Ladies returning to the top of the table as they continued their 100% winning start to the season with a comfortable result at home to bottom side Luton Town Ladies.  Sian Heather opening the scoring 1st half capitalising as Luton failed to clear the ball. The lead doubled from the penalty spot Naomi Cole composed sending the keeper the wrong way. 2-0 up at half-time Crawley added to the score 2nd half Ariana Fleischman turning inside the area slotting the ball in to make it 3. Darcy James scoring from a corner. Megan Stow putting Crawley 5-0 up, Faye Rabson netting fro close range sealed a 6-0 win to return Crawley to the top of the league.

  Behind the leading pair in FAWNL South East Division One it as extremely tight a win for any side down as far as 7th could see them make huge gains in term of league position and that is exactly what AFC Wimbledon Ladies did on Sunday winning the 3 points to leap all the way up to 3rd position. At home Wimbledon were taking on Denham United Ladies. Rebecca Sargeant putting the hosts into the lead midway through the 1st half, Jenny Nagle adding a 2nd goal for Wimbledon deep into 1st half stoppage time. The lead made more comfortable 10 minutes into the 2nd period with Caroline Bisson scoring her 5th goal of the season. The final score 4-0 Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins scoring with 20 minutes left her 1st goal of the season.

The Round-Up – 20/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 20th May

The final edition of The Round-Up for the 2017/18 season. 19 games to bring you in one post it’s not quite over a couple to thing’s to still be decided and it is going to go all the way in both the Premier and Division One in Essex, first though we’ll begin with all the action from the final day of the FAWPL season.

FAWPL Southern Division

3 games to wrap up the season in the FAWPL Southern Division, Charlton Athletic Women the Champions of course have a very important Play-off match to come against the Northern Division Champions, Blackburn Rovers Ladies this coming Sunday at Bramall Lane.

  This Sunday Charlton were at home for their final game of the season presented with the Southern Division trophy, ended their campaign against Chichester City Ladies. Charlotte Gurr giving Charlton a 1-0 half-time lead scoring in the 13th minute. Strike partner Kit Graham doubling the lead on the hour. Natasha Stephens getting her first goal for Chichester City pulled it back to 2-1 on 77 minutes. Charlton soon restoring their 2 goal advantage Gurr netting her 2nd of the game 4 minutes later. Graham taking her tally to a whopping 46 goals for the season scoring deep in stoppage time to see Charlton end the season with a 4-1 win. Just 2 defeats in the league all season for Charlton a potent strike force in Gurr and Graham have netted 82 goals between them. An 8th placed finish for Chichester City in the finish a solid season following promotion have been comfortable in the top half of the table for much of the campaign dropping a little late on.

 Wishing Charlton all the best of luck for this weekends Play-off match.

  Pipped at the post Lewes FC Women concede 4th place in the Southern Division table having held it for much of the season as Coventry United Ladies grabbed a last gasp winner to nudge them out on goal difference. Lewes travelled to Coventry United knowing a point or better would secure 4th. Coventry having played twice in midweek in an effort to catch up their games in hand had picked up maximum points one more win would see them overhaul Lewes to 4th spot. Were trailing at the break however Lewes ahead 1-0 after Avilla Bergin had fired the visitors into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Jade Brook levelled thing’s up for Coventry in the 2nd half. 1-1 until the dying moments the game looked to be heading for the draw Lois Jefferies finding the back of the net to grab a late late winner for Coventry United.

  Over 1300 spectators were present for West Ham United Ladies final game of the season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies in Sunday. The club having had a fantastic 2018 to date 13 games unbeaten along with 2 cups won along the way. From a precarious position going into the year in the league West Ham United have ended the season comfortable in mid-table. Held 0-0 for the opening half hour it was Rosie Kmita who broke the dead lock for West Ham to put the hosts into the lead, Kelly Wealthall making it 2-0 4 minutes before half-time.

  Jasmine Auguste scored a 3rd goal for West Ham United on the hour. Ellie Zoepfl then took over the goal scoring proceedings as she bagged herself a 10 minute hat-trick to put West Ham United 6-0 up. Helen Ogle pulled a goal back for Queens Park Rangers a consolation West Ham United awarded a penalty in stoppage time substitute Rebecca Dunning stepping up to take and scoring her 1st goal for the club the final score 7-1.  

FAWPL South East Division One

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have done it are the FAWPL South East Division One Champions! An amazing run of 11 wins to end the campaign have lost just the one league game all season and that was their 2nd game of the season back in August. Have been playing catch up all season but as the title race played out before them knew what they had to do at one point 27 points back on the leaders but a maximum points haul would see them close the gap. That of course is easier said than done, credit to everyone involved a tremendous effort with games coming thick and fast towards the end played themselves into top spot with a game to go and knew just a point away to bottom side Haringey Borough was going to be enough come this Sunday.

  A 16-1 win for Milton Keynes just a week ago, Stevenage pushed them hard at Stadium MK in midweek a 1-0 just as good however. With plenty of goal scorers in their side Milton Keynes created plenty of chances and took them to wrap up the title with a big win, Laura Mills and Kim Farrow netting a hat-trick each. Both Leah Cudone and Zoe Boote got a brace. Captain Leanna Doyle and Amy Gooderham also on target along with an own goal in a 13-0 win.

  An incredibly tough season for Haringey Borough following their double winning success of the season before. Losing a lot of players to university it was a baptism of fire in the FAWPL so many new players losing a manager during the campaign too. Full credit too though for sticking at it have battled and the spirit remained strong the club. 

Congratulations to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies on becoming Champions and promotion to the Southern Division.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies the FAWPL South East Division One leaders for so long through out the season ultimately missing out finish as Runners-Up in the league. Two defeats late on in the campaign damaging their own title challenge have nevertheless had a strong season. Ended the season were they began the reverse fixture away to Ipswich Town Ladies who themselves have secured a top three finish in FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town beat AFC Wimbledon 3-1 on the opening day of the season. This Sunday the sides were goalless at the break. AFC Wimbledon taking the lead early in the 2nd period awarded a penalty on 47 minutes Caroline Bisson putting the ball into the back of the net for her 11th goal of the season. Ipswich responded quickly getting back on level terms, Zoe Cossey who has been in fine form this season netting her 21st goal of the season to make it 1-1 the sides ended with a point each.

Ipswich Town Ladies manager Ralph Pruden announcing after the game that he would be stepping down from the role after 4 years in charge a successful spell for the club, will still be involved with the club but taking a well earned rest first, has been very helpful to Women’s Football East in that period and wish him all the best for the future.

 Leyton Orient WFC were making their debut in the FAWPL this season and right up their amongst the title chasers from an early stage end up with a 4th place finish. A very good first season at this level their campaign ending with a goalless draw away to Enfield Town Ladies who end in 10th position.

Luton Town Ladies have been amongst the top  sides in the FAWPL South East Division One over recent seasons clinching two successive 4th placed finishes before a 5th place finish last season. 5th place was the goal too this Sunday as they travelled to Norfolk to play Norwich City Ladies knowing a win would guarantee the place. Women’s Football East was there to watch the action on a hot sunny afternoon at Plantation Park. A flurry of goals in the early stages of the game, Nicola Henman lobbing the keeper to put Luton a goal up Norwich went straight up the other end and scored the equaliser Chelsea Garrett running through to beat the keeper to the ball and turn the ball into the back of the net. Luton soon back in front Henman the provider this time setting up Jess McKay inside the box to make it 2-1. 

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

Luton further extending their 1st half lead as they were awarded a free-kick 30 yards from goal central a brilliant strike from their captain Zara Carroll the ball smashing down off the crossbar over the line to make it 3-1. That the half-time score Norwich came out fighting 2nd half Luton soaking up the pressure ready to hit their opponents on the counter. Norwich pulling a goal back late in the match Garrett with her 2nd of the game, Luton keeping their lead to the final whistle and ending their season with a win. Norwich finish 2nd bottom and will have to wait until the upcoming league restructuring to see if they will retain their FAWPL status for next season. 

 Stevenage Ladies were the side that could have overhauled Luton to 5th spot had they got the win and Luton dropped points as it was Stevenage away to Denham United Ladies on the final day lost out to a narrow 2-1 defeat, captain Donna McGuigan getting the goal Denham ended the season on a positive note Kayleigh Currivan with a double to see them claim the 3 points. 

That’s it for the FAWPL as from next season it becomes the FA Women’s National League. 

ERWFL Division One South

 Just one outstanding fixture left to play in the ERWFL from Division One South, Hutton Ladies double cup winners this season ending with a trip to Hertford Town Ladies in buoyant mood the Essex side ending with a victory. Kate Lowen and Kelly Roberts both scoring 2 goals each with Kaitlin Sugg and Laura Allen also on target in a 6-1 win.

Congratulation too the Harlow Town Ladies who have been promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division. Finishing 2nd in Division One South, Champions Stevenage Ladies Reserves haven’t taken promotion the runners-up going up in their place.

Norfolk Women’s Division One

Bungay Town Ladies are the Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions and complete a league and cup double. A nervous wait at the end however as they draw their final game of the season to open the door to 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies. 4 points behind with 2 games left to play a 2-0 win against Thorpe United Ladies meant Sprowston could overtake Bungay and become Champions themselves if they could win their final match of the season away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves who themselves with two games left to play could move up a couple of places with maximum points.

Sprowston having the better start getting themselves into a 2-0 lead Wymondham Town came back into it Hannah Claughton pulling it back to 2-1. The game turned completely around then as Wymondham Town levelled from the penalty spot Emily Anderson scoring added another soon after to put Wymondham Town 3-2 ahead. Sprowston coming back to level it up at 3-3 late on in the game the sides taking away a point each, Sprowston drawing level on points with Bungay who become Champions virtue of a superior goal difference. 

  Congratulations to Bungay Town Ladies on completing the league and cup double.

 Congratulations to Sprowston Ladies to a very young squad challenging for the title all season missing out on a double themselves just on goals scored after winning the Plate Final.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

A double header to bring the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North season to a close, Riverside Ladies needing just a point against their two matches with Hungate Rovers Ladies to become the league champions. Jess Hill and Jade Ramm scoring a goal each in a 2-0 win for Riverside in one game. 6 points won with a 5-1 win in the other match, Samantha Woodham scoring twice with a goal each for Annie Posnett, Lianna Bell and Juliana Lee.

  Congratulations to Riverside Ladies on becoming Championship North Champions and promotion to the Premiership. A successful end to a difficult season dropping out of the EMWFL and entering a team into the Championship North.

Essex Women’s Premier Division 

Still all to play for in both leagues in Essex. In the Premier Division, Hatfield Peverel Ladies maintain the lead moving onto 40 points 5 clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies who have a game in hand. A double header this Sunday for Hatfield Peverel away to another title challenger Corringham Cosmos who even after this weekends double have 5 games left to play. Both sides claiming a win. Christa Osman on target with the winner in Hatfield Peverel’s 1-0 win. Michelle Sumpter grabbing to only goal of the game to win it for Corringham Cosmos who lay in 5th spot on 29 points have 4 games in hand on Hatfield Peverel who themselves have one left play away to Collier Row Tigers this Sunday. 

Lawford Ladies secured the 3 points with a huge home win against Harlow Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday. Captain, Daisy Canny scoring 5 goals in the game taking her onto 24 for the season, Jasmine Cox keeping just ahead of her as top scorer getting a hat-trick has 26 goals now. Sofia Serghiou on the scoresheet too with 4 goals in the game, Jade Heath and Tyler Christou also on target in a 14-0 win.

  Frontiers Ladies in 3rd place in the Premier Division have 3 games left to play as they picked up another win on the road on Sunday to leave them 6 points off the leaders. Taking on Beacon Hill Rovers, were leading 3-0 at half-time before going on to win 4-1, Sharon Ferguson netting a brace along with a goal apiece for Kay Foy and Kelly Holsworth.

Chelmsford City Ladies were playing Collier Row Tigers at home on Sunday, Georgia James scoring a hat-trick along with a goal for Mia Brisley seeing the 6th placed side beat Collier Row Tigers in 4th, 4-2. Emily Dempsey and Laura Bunton scoring for Collier Row Tigers.

I could do the maths but it’ll only give me a headache and leave you confused so for now 4 sides still remain in with a chance of claiming the title, Hatfield Peverel win on Sunday and other results go their way then they will finish top.

Essex Women’s Division One

As competitive for the league title in Essex Women’s Division One going into the final week, a 3 way tie at the top with Hullbridge Sports Ladies ahead on goal difference over Leigh Ramblers Ladies and Southend United Ladies the latter two meeting in midweek. All 3 on 49 points.

 Hullbridge Sports Ladies in action on Sunday at home to Dagenham & Redbridge Ladies in 5th. A brace from top scorer Broghan Kelly clinching the win for Hullbridge 2-1 the final score. Kelly moving onto an incredible 51 goals for the season from 22 appearances. The win putting Hullbridge back on top of the table crucially have a game in hand on both Leigh Ramblers and Southend United.

 One more game from Division One at the weekend Alresford Colne Rangers were at home against Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Joanne Harvey, Alresford’s top scorer moving onto 24 goals for the season with a 4 goal haul. Tiffany Reeves with a brace and a goal too for Kirsty Belfall her 1st of the season in a comfortable 7-2 win.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 20th May

 It’s the final day of the FAWPL season, ending it with a trip to Plantation Park to watch Norwich City Ladies up against Luton Town Ladies in South East Division One.

  The last season in fact for the FAWPL with the women’s football pyramid being restructured from next season it will become known as the Women’s National League and there will be some restructuring amongst the teams that compete in those league too.

  Neither of today’s sides can improve on their final placing Norwich City Ladies will finish 2nd bottom in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Have unfortunately been struggling at the wrong end of the table for a few season’s now. Change potentially around the corner. Chairman and General Manager Mel Swift bringing in Grant Palmer to join the club as first team manager assisted by Carla Dickinson, following a successful spell developing and winning titles with Harlow Town Ladies. Since arriving in January results have started to pick up without necessarily picking up the points. Relegation a possibility will come down to the restructuring of the league and at present not known. 

  Luton Town Ladies are currently 5th in the FAWPL South East Division One can’t finish any higher although they can be caught by 6th placed Stevenage Ladies who are just a point behind ending their campaign away to Denham United Ladies. Have been a regular in the top half of the table over recent season’s finishing 4th, 4th, and then 5th last season in the league. Have brought a number of youth players up through the club to make the 1st team squad this season. Were in action in midweek at home to Cambridge United WFC coming back from a goal down twice to secure a point in a 3-3 draw.

 Plantation Park the venue home of Norwich United FC and Norwich City Ladies. A warm sunny May afternoon to end the season the pitch looking in reasonably good shape after seeing alot of football played upon it. Dry however and fairly hard underfoot. Offers plenty of width to. Campers behind the goals getting a ring side seat of the action.

 Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Luka Goodfield, Vivian Moyo, Sasha Diston, Emily Moerkerk (C), Jodie Drake, Millie Daviss, Aimee Durrant, Summer Ward, Brooke Osborne & Chelsea Garrett. Subs – Hayley Turner, Natasha Snelling, Eliza McDonald, Paige Shorten & Laura Thacker.

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Brooks, Rachel Kosky, Lucy Webster, Rachel Carter, Lucy Tape, Lisa Dixon, Zara Carroll (C), Dionne Manning, Jess McKay, Funmi Babalola & Nicola Henman. Subs – Natasha Fensome & Erica Bryon.

It’s Luton to kick off the match wearing orange shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts. Norwich lined up opposite in their yellow and green kit. A quiet opening to the game Luton putting the ball out to the right Norwich winning the throw in concede a free-kick on halfway, to the right the ball flighted in towards the off of the area the Norwich defence deals with it and sending the ball out to the right wing set up a counter attack Brooke Osborne travelling with the ball up the wing sending a cross in across the six yard box the ball dipping as it arrives at the far post so to is Norwich’s Aimee Durrant her touch flicking the ball up over the bar.

Millie Daviss bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

   Luton play the ball up to Nicola Henman in attack holding it up plays the ball back to Lisa Dixon rolled into Zara Carroll the Luton captain attempts to play the ball over the top for Henman to run onto, too much weight on the pass runs out for a goal kick. Norwich captain, Emily Moerkerk plays the ball into Summer Ward moving away to the right, Lucy Webster in to tackle the ball out for a throw, high up the pitch Norwich get players forwards the ball into the area cut out by Lucy Tape for Luton, launch a rapid counter through the middle the ball fed through to Funmi Babalola into the left channel gets a shot away from outside the box her low effort running narrowly wide of the near post.

   Millie Daviss brings the ball on over halfway for Norwich central on to Chelsea Garrett her back to goal spins the ball away to her right Ward taking it on down the left as Durrant makes a central run into the box the cross squared into her run she shot is placed wide across the face of goal. Norwich build another attack the ball played out to Garrett peeling out to the right wing up the line cuts her cross back towards the top of the area, Carroll getting her foot around it to clear for Luton the clearance runs straight to Norwich’s Jodie Drake 30 yards out takes on the shot the ball skimming in towards goal, Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks diving to her right claims it. 

Norwich City Ladies, Jodie Drake

  Risky from Norwich goalkeeper Eilish Brogan as she comes racing out of her box to close down Henman as she is put through on goal, does well however controlling the bouncing ball with her chest to take it away from the attacker before kicking it up field. A good tempo to the game certainly doesn’t have that end of a long season feel to it.

  Henman is causing the Norwich defence problems early on timing her runs well playing off the shoulder of the last defender, gets away on the left channel in front of goal, Sasha Diston doing well for Norwich recovering the ground lunging in to take the ball away from Henman out for the corner kick. A good delivery into the area from the left the inswinging ball take well by Brogan as she jumps for the ball with Henman coming in on her. 

Eilish Brogan claims the ball for Norwich City Ladies

 Drake with a good pass out to the right to pick out Osborne the Norwich winger taking it on evades a tackle getting in behind to send a cross in along the edge of the box Garrett meeting it far side sends her shot wide of goal. 

GOAL! Luton open the scoring and it’s Henman who gets the goal, a handful for the Norwich defence to deal with the ball played up towards her 25/30 yards from goal to the right sends a chipped effort up high into the air looping over Brogan the keeper caught off her line can’t get back as it falls into the back of the net 0-1.

Nicola Henman opens the scoring for Luton Town Ladies

GOAL! Straight away from the restart however Norwich get the ball up the other end and level the scores the ball lifted up towards the box bouncing as Brooks comes out towards the edge of her area, Garrett in behind challenging the keeper for the ball knocks it past her and taking it away to the right of goal gets her foot up over it to turn it back across the line to score, almost tumbles head over heels over the barrier behind the goal in the process 1-1.

The moment Chelsea Garrett gets past Luton goalkeeper Grace Brooks to equalise for Norwich City Ladies

  Brooks required treatment after the goal is okay to continue. Carroll playing the diagonal pass out to Jess McKay on the left she looks to cut inside is tackled by Norwich’s Luka Goodfield, Diston clearing the loose ball.

Norwich City Ladies, Luka Goodfield

GOAL! The goals keep coming a 3rd scored in as many minutes and it’s Luton who once again take the lead. Norwich are caught in possession high up the pitch as Luton press the ball, Henman stealing the ball on the right 25 yards out shifting it inside, players drawn across she sends the low cross in across the area McKay free at the far post 10 yards out opens up her body to divert the ball past Brogan to score 1-2. 18 minutes played.

Jess McKay score for Luton Town Ladies to restore their lead

A change for Norwich, Goodfield coming off on comes Laura Thacker. Henman strong on the ball threatens to get in behind once more, Diston doing well to get across her and play the ball back to Brogan to clear inside the box. McKay and Henman combine in attack on the left a give and go between the pair McKay coming infield lines up a shot from distance the ball screwing away from goal. Luton coming forwards with purpose looking to spread the play across the pitch inside the Norwich half. 

McKay into the box a similar position to which she scored the ball in from the right dropping the attacker striking it first time the shot spun wide of goal. Dixon winning the ball in the middle for Luton inside to Carroll her pass out to McKay away on he left crosses into the area Henman goes for it Diston challenging the Luton attacker getting a glancing header on the ball places it wide at the far post. Luton on top pushing forwards.

Norwich City Ladies, Sasha Diston

  Henman continues to hassle the Norwich defence supported by McKay on the right. Thacker with good defensive work for Norwich to get the ball back to her keeper. Babalola with support from Dionne Manning on the right the ball crossed in towards the top of the area headed on by the Norwich out to the left retrieved by McKay who sends a high ball into the box, Brogan taking it well as she falls forwards. Babalola steals in on the ball taking it off the Norwich defence playing it through for Henman she is flagged offside. 

GOAL! McKay is fouled in a central position 30 yards from goal, Luton send players forwards as Carroll places the ball. She goes for goal strikes the ball well, arrowing in towards the top corner Brogan flings herself at it in vain as it smashes down against the crossbar and down, scrambled away the officials though signal a goal scored and Luton extend their lead 1-3.

Zara Carroll’s free-kick smashing down off the crossbar

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll

Luton with a throw in on the left inside the Norwich half Dixon making the run in behind takes the ball to the byline before sending in a cross bouncing across the face of goal cleared at the far post. Luton pressing the ball well, McKay always ready to break in behind whenever the ball is played up to Henman. Henman herself charges down a clearance from Brogan top of the area, aims to get the loose ball turned in on goal, Brogan recovering well back pedalling is right behind the strike. 

  Late into the 1st half the ball with Norwich on the left a foul committed inside the Luton half a chance to send players forwards towards the top of the box, a good delivery into the area bouncing near post, Daviss getting in front of Tape, almost gets on the end of it, Brooks palming it away to her right.

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-3 Luton Town Ladies

  A strong first half performance from Luton after an initially flurry of goals taking the lead then conceding straight away, only to score again taking the lead again and dominating from that point on. Henman and McKay causing all sorts of problems for the Norwich defence as they pressed the ball high. Good movement on and off the ball supported by the midfield. Norwich with a couple of great chances themselves in the opening minutes of the match. After conceding the 2nd goal struggled to get the ball out caught in possession created a few of their own problems. Luton on course to secure 5th spot in the table.

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

 Norwich to get the 2nd half underway. Drake has the ball in the middle wide to Ward out left taking the ball on sends a cross into the box Durrant with the run gets her head on the ball put straight at Brooks the keeper holding onto the ball. McKay getting forwards with the ball sends a cross into Henman positioned outside the box, Diston closing her down preventing her from attempting the lob. Thacker with a vital interception at the back as Dixon looks to play the ball on through the middle. 

Jodie Drake clearing the ball

  Norwich starting the 2nd half better getting forwards Osborne seeing a cross go behind for a goal kick on the right. Carroll carrying the ball on over the halfway line for Luton picks out Manning on the right with the pass as she makes a break forwards cutting inside towards the top of the box sends a low shot in towards goal, Brogan getting down gathers the ball into her body. 

Luton Town Ladies, Funmi Babalola

  Diston slides in on the hard ground to try and take the ball away from Babalola as she makes a run on the right 20 yards out, the defender is hurt making the challenge Babalola retrieves the ball on the byline sends a high ball in across the face of Brogan’s goal the keeper doing well under challenge to get up and claim the ball. Norwich temporarily down to 10 whilst Diston receives treatment Luton press on in attack the ball played into the top of the area cleared back to Webster having gotten forwards the full back slices a 25 attempt well off target.

  Diston comes back on but she is unable to continue, the substitution made on comes midfielder Paige Shorten. The tempo remains high Norwich gaining confidence, Shorten not afraid to strike the ball from distance central has a pop at goal from 30 yards out the ball dropping wide of the right post. Ward cutting inside with the ball on the left on to Shorten she dinks the ball over the top of the Luton defence for Durrant to chase, Brooks can reach it first. 

Luton come close to extending their lead Manning getting hold of the ball on the right turning in behind to sends a low cross in towards the near post Babalola arriving meets it first time drills the ball narrowly wide. A third change for Norwich, Drake comes off as Natasha Snelling in brought on to support Garrett in attack. A corner for Norwich on the right taken short the ball crossed into the six yard box, Brooks can catch unchallenged. 

Luton Town Ladies, Dionne Manning

  A powerful run by Henman driving on with the ball up towards the top of the box evades a tackle knocking the ball on into the area fires a cross diagonally across goal from the right. Babalola racing in far post can’t get to the ball as it runs out of play. A throw for Norwich on the left the ball inside to Snelling pushed on for Garrett to attack arriving top corner of the Luton area lets fly with a shot the ball angling in near post Brooks saves well beating the ball away to her right. 

Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling

Norwich pressing for a goal risk getting caught on the counter attack Luton timing their attacks the ball played up to McKay clear on the left drives for the box inside Brogan does well to save sliding in at her feet to deny the attacker a shot. End to end Norwich attack coming right side the ball played into the area loops up and on towards Garrett peeling in behind at the far post shapes to shoot deceiving Brooks who dives to her right the ball instead prodded square to her left the keeper reacts brilliantly throwing out her trailing leg to stop the ball getting past her out for the corner. 

  Norwich are pressing on looking for a goal Ward on the left inside for Shorten good hold up play by the midfielder outside the area left corner turns inside well lifting the ball over the defence into the box Snelling stretching for it sends her shot over the bar, had it been on target wouldn’t have counted as she was offside. Norwich looking strong Luton soaking up the pressure.

GOAL! That pressure increases however as Norwich get the goal they have been pressing for, Snelling with the ball on for Daviss moving left on for Garrett out on the wing she takes the ball on down the line cutting inside to the byline getting in behind and from the angle drills in a shot towards the near post Brooks diving for it can’t get there the ball finds the back of the net 2-3 will a little under 10 minutes left to play.

Chelsea Garrett score a 2nd goal for the game for Norwich City Ladies

 Manning looks to get forwards for Luton as Carter wins the ball at the back for Luton on to Carroll out to the right Manning pushing on Moyo getting back with her tackles her to regain possession for Norwich. Tape getting her head on the ball to clear for Luton as Ward plays a ball in from the left. Shorten is brought down by Carroll in the middle top of the circle, Durrant over the ball a great delivery in Brooks takes it well high on her goal line. 

Not long left in the match Norwich have a corner everyone goes up including the keeper, the ball from the right goes long headed back across goal in towards the right post, Carter on her line to defend for Luton heading the ball away from danger. Luton have players back defending late on Carroll winning the ball gets it up to Babalola, possession lost Norwich push late on but can’t final a clinical final ball as Luton defend their lead and claim the 3 points on the final day and with it secure 5th place in the FAWPL South East Division One table.

Full time  Norwich City Ladies 2-3 Luton Town Ladies

  A competitive game to end the season for both sides gave it there all, Luton by far the better the 1st half taking a 3-1 lead. Sat back more in the 2nd half ready to launch a counter attack when on e presented itself Norwich improving 2nd half getting hold of the ball higher up the pitch and gaining confidence as a result creating chances pulling a goal back late in the 2nd half proved too little too late but a positive 2nd half to end their campaign. 5th place for Luton 4 seasons in a row now. Norwich 2nd bottom play the waiting game now to see whether they stay in the Division or drop down. An improved 2nd half of the season lots of positives to build on for next season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   This afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Luton Town Ladies, Nicola Henman proved a real handful for the Norwich defence especially in the first half playing off the last defender moving left and right to receive the ball supported well by McKay scoring the opening goal and setting up the 2nd.

My thanks to both clubs for their help today always appreciated.

 

The Round-Up – FAWPL 13/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 13th May

FAWPL Southern Division 

Charlton Athletic Women are the FAWPL Southern Division Champion’s. Retaking the lead with games in hand still on their rivals went into Sunday’s game knowing a win would ensure them the league title with 2 games to spare. Were away to 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies who secure runners-up spot themselves if they could win their final game of the season. 

  Charlton got off to a fantastic start in the game getting into the lead within the opening 10 minutes, Kit Graham finding the back of the net. Charlton created further chances to extend the lead in the 1st half but didn’t take any held a narrow lead going into the break. Just 2 minutes into the 2nd half Charlton doubled their advantage Graham again then just 4 minutes later she completed her hat-trick to move her onto 199 goals for Charlton and put the visitors in control of the game. Closing in on the hour Graham scored a 4th goal for Charlton bringing up her 200th for Charlton from 207 appearance a fantastic achievement massive congratulations to Kit Graham now on 42 for the season. The goals ensuring Charlton got the win that saw them become Champion’s.

  Defeat for Crystal Palace in their final game of the season sees them finish 3rd in the table building on 5th in what was their debut season at this level last year. Blackburn Rovers Ladies have secured the FAWPL Northern Division title and will face Charlton in the FAWPL Play-off game held this year at Sheffield United FC’s Bramall Lane on Sun 27th May.

That result coupled with a win for win for C&K Basildon Ladies in their final match of the season away to Chichester City Ladies ensured they ended their remarkable season with a 2nd placed finish in the FAWPL Southern Division table. The Essex side making everyone nervous in the process however as they eventual found a winning goal with 5 minutes of the season left! Captain Zoe Rushen getting the telling touch inside the penalty box to get the crucial goal and see C&K Basildon secure runners-up spot.

  A point from their final game of the season will ensure Lewes FC Women finish in 4th place in the FAWPL Southern Division, that is of course if Coventry United Ladies can claim maximum points in their remaining games in hand. A fantastic season for Lewes real progress made on the pitch this season. Playing the final home game of the season against Cardiff City Ladies the sides looked to be heading in goalless at the break until Danielle Lane got the ball over the line  for Lewes in the final 5 minutes. 10 minutes into the 2nd half a goal from Rachel Carter made it 2-0 to Lewes. Lane adding her 2nd of the game to make it 3-0 5 minutes later. 3-0 up Lewes’ Georgia Bridges added their 4th goal in the closing stages of the game. Lewes are away to West Ham United Ladies for their final game of the season this coming Sunday. Cardiff City ending their season in 10th spot a difficult campaign but results elsewhere mean they can not be caught.

Portsmouth FC Ladies finished their season at home to Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. An opportunity for the club to play at Fratton Park in their final match and put on a show for their fans. Charley Boswell firing Portsmouth into the lead midway through the 1st half two quickfire goals from Samantha Quayle and Daisy McLachlan in the 38th & 39th minute putting Portsmouth into a strong 3-0 half-time lead.

 In the 70th minute Portsmouth were awarded a penalty Rachel Panting stepping up to take and scored to make it 4-0. Quayle adding her 2nd of the game in the final 10 minutes, Another penalty awarded to Portsmouth this time the taker Emma-Jane May her shot going in for her first Portsmouth goal. QPR grabbing a late consolation with Chontele Lawrence on target. A 6-1 win for Portsmouth to end the season a pretty good campaign overall and certainly a great platform to build on from next season. QPR will finish 2nd bottom despite having 2 games left to play. Will have to see how the league structure is changed around over the close season to see if it’s enough to stay up.

Coventry United Ladies are in the midst of a hectic schedule as they look to get in all their fixtures before the end of the season in action on Tuesday were at home again on Sunday taking on Gillingham FC Ladies. Stephanie Smith putting Coventry into an early lead. Jade Formaston and Lois Jefferies also with goals in the 1st half to see Coventry into a 3-0 half-time lead. Keeley Davies extending Coventry’s lead further in the 2nd half Marie Gauntlett wrapping up a 5-0 win in the final 5 minutes. Back at it a home again this Tuesday, Coventry taking in bottom side Swindon Town Ladies playing their final game of the season. Another league game on Thursday too at home to Queens Park Rangers as they look to get the season wrapped up by the 20th May. 2 points behind Portsmouth.

FAWPL South East Division One

New leaders in FAWPL South East Division One as Milton Keynes Dons Ladies move into top spot ahead of AFC Wimbledon Ladies on goal difference with a big win at home to bottom side Haringey Borough Women on Sunday. A busy end to the season for Milton Keynes Dons picking up the 3 points with a 2-0 win away to Actonians Ladies in midweek. 

  5-0 up against Haringey at half-time, a brace from Leah Cudone along with goals for Laura Mills, Dawn Mallett and Kim Farrow. Milton Keynes adding even more goals in the 2nd half both Louise Naylor and Heather McDonnell scoring a hat-trick each a brace too for captain Leanna Doyle. Alice Hughes, Zoe Boote and Anna Loftus also on the scoresheet in a 16-1 win. Julia Carruthers with the consolation goal for Haringey. Milton Keynes Dons with a game in hand over Wimbledon coming up this Wednesday at the Stadium MK up against Stevenage Ladies a win will see them needing just a point to win the league title in their final game of the season on Sunday away to Haringey.

Ipswich Town Ladies have already secured a 3rd placed finish in FAWPL South East Division One were away to 5th placed Luton Town Ladies on Sunday. A goalless 1st period between the sides it was Ipswich who broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the 2nd half, Natasha Thomas on target with her 30th goal of the season to make it 1-0. Miagh Downey doubling the visitors lead with 12 minutes left on the clock. Ipswich going on to win the 3 points despite Luton pulling it back to 2-1 in the closing stages with a goal from Jess McKay.

   That result for Luton ensures a top fur finish for Leyton Orient WFC in their debut season playing at this level. They were at home on Sunday playing Stevenage Ladies. Rebecca Scola giving Stevenage the lead in the game late in the first half. Leyton Orient coming back to level the scores and go on to take the lead Sarka Stryhalova and Hannah Porter getting the goals. A chance to extend the lead further too from the penalty spot the chance missed the ball put over the bar. Stevenage getting a penalty up the other end and Amy Makewell making no mistake to level it up at 2-2 and see the points shared.

Norwich City Ladies were hosting Cambridge United WFC on Sunday both playing their penultimate game of the season. Norwich improving under new manager Grant Palmer took the lead in the game in the 20th minute Chelsea Garrett with the goal. The lead doubled on the half hour Aimee Durrant getting the ball into the back of the net. Conceding a penalty right on the stroke of half-time Cambridge reduced the deficit to 2-1 with Amy Howell sending the ball home. Cambridge getting it back to 2-2 midway through the 2nd half substitute Mollie Coupar with her first touch of the game scoring her first goal for the 1st team. Norwich having lost their 2-0 lead kept going to the end and retook the lead with just 2 minutes left on the clock Garrett with her 2nd of the match to see Norwich get the 3-2 win.

The Round-Up – #FAWPL 06/05/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 6th May

FAWPL Southern Division

Charlton Athletic Women returned to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division with a comfortable midweek away win to Chichester City Ladies. Charley Clifford hitting a brace there were goals too for Nicole Pepper, Charlotte Gurr, Georgia Griffin and Kit Graham in a 6-0 result. The London in Cup Final action this Sunday up against 3rd placed Crystal Palace Ladies in the Capital Women’s Cup. 

There rivals for the league title in Cup action this Sunday it was an opportunity for 2nd placed C&K Basildon Ladies to return to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division table as they travelled down to the South Coast to play 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies. both sides hitting the woodwork early on in the game it was Portsmouth who would open the scoring awarded a penalty in the 15th minute. Daisy McLachlan stepping up to take putting the ball home for 1-0. Late in the 1st half McLachlan was on target with her 2nd of the game to see Portsmouth leading 2-0 at the break. 

  C&K Basildon came out strong in the 2nd half Angela Addison pulling it back to 2-1 with 53 minutes played and 2 minutes later had the chance the level from the penalty spot the post struck the follow up put over the bar. Portsmouth going on to win the game 2-1 and put a large dent in C&K Basildon’s title hopes, the Essex side with one game left to play now away to Chichester City this coming Sunday. 2 points behind Charlton Athletic Women who have 3 left to play.

Lewes FC Women are looking strong for a 4th placed finish in the FAWPL Southern Division as they won their 13th league game of the season away to Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday. Avilla Bergin giving the visitors the lead deep into 1st half stoppage time. Katie McIntyre doubling the advantage with 20 minutes left to play to see Lewes win the game 2-0.

   Coventry United Ladies in 6th could still potentially catch Lewes if they drop points and they can win theirs have 5 games left to play a busy end to the season. A 15-0 win over Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies saw Coventry United Ladies retain the County Cup in midweek. Were at home on Sunday taking on Cardiff City Ladies. Goals from Helen Dermody, Marie Gauntlett, Stephanie Smith and Jessica Lundle seeing Coventry win the game 4-0.

Chichester City Ladies were hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies on Sunday. The sides goalless at the half-time whistle Chichester City went on to claim all 3 points in the 2nd half. Laura Ingram putting them in front on the hour. Jess Lewry doubling the lead with 15 minutes left Alex Collighan ensuring the 3 points went to the hosts with a 3rd goal in the final moments of the game.

FAWPL South East Division One

Two successive defeats in the league had put the brakes on AFC Wimbledon Ladies title charge at the top of FAWPL South East Division One. A 3 week break without a league fixture they were on the road this Sunday taking on Luton Town Ladies. A good opening 45 minutes saw AFC Wimbledon leading the game 2-0. Katie Stanley and Caroline Bisson the goalscorers. Bisson scored again on the hour to see AFC Wimbledon into a 3-0 lead. Luton Town threatened a comeback however with 2 goals from Funmi Babalola and Nicola Henman to get it back to 3-2. AFC Wimbledon have won several goals by the odd goal this season and that continued this Sunday as they took the 3 points to return to winning ways. Lead the table by 6 points with one game away to Ipswich Town Ladies to come.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have a lot of work still left to do but have now climbed into 2nd place in the FAWPL South East Division One table closing the gap to 6 points on AFC Wimbledon and crucially have 3 games in hand. The games coming thick and fast now at the end of the season their squad will be tested. Were hosting Norwich City Ladies at Stadium MK on Sunday Heather McDonnell getting Milton Keynes off to a great start scoring in the opening minute. Laura Mills with a superb solo goal making it 2-0 past the half hour. 

A 2-0 lead for Milton Keynes at half-time Norwich pulled a goal back soon after the restart Chelsea Garrett finding the back of the net. 5 minutes later Milton Keynes restored their 2 goal advantage McDonnell with her 2nd of the game. Charley Clarke making it 4-1 in the 65th minute. McDonnell completing her hat-trick with 20 minutes left. Kim Farrow getting on the scoresheet with 3 minutes left, the final score 6-2 as Norwich City score in the closing minutes through Natasha Snelling. Milton Keynes back in action tonight away to Actonians Ladies a potentially tricky game with Actonians in a good run of form themselves.

One more game from the FAWPL South East Division One at the weekend and it was honours even between hosts Stevenage Ladies and Denham United Ladies the sides drawing 1-1 captain Donna McGuigan scoring for Stevenage.

Capital Women’s Cup

Charlton Athletic Women were playing Crystal Place Ladies in the Capital Cup Final this Sunday. A close contest both sides creating opportunities in front of goal it was stalemate at half-time 0-0. 10 minutes into the 2nd half Crystal Palace took the lead Gemma Bryan scoring from a free-kick just outside the area. Charlton were quick to find a reply levelling it back up at 1-1 6 minutes later Kit Graham with the goal. Olivia Lukasewich the heroine as she scored the winning goal for Charlton in the final minute to see them win the final 2-1 and lift the trophy.

Capital Cup Winners – Charlton Athletic Women (picture credit – Charlton Athletic Women)

Congratulations to Charlton Athletic Women on winning this season’s Capital Women’s Cup.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 29/04/18

The Round-Up

Sunday 29th April

FAWPL Southern Division

C&K Basildon complete a 100% league record in the league at Canvey Island FC on Sunday to return to the top of the FAWPL Southern Division. Taking on Portsmouth FC Ladies. Goals from Angela Addison, Laken Duchar Clark and a 30 yard strike from Jay Blackie seeing C&K Basildon into a dominant 3-0 half-time lead. Portsmouth pulled a goal back early in the 2nd half Daisy McLachlan the scorer. C&K Basildon restoring their 3 goals lead with Therese Addison getting the goal. Portsmouth getting in back to 4-2 in the final 15 minutes through a Shannon Albuery goal. C&K Basildon went on to make it 11 wins from 11 at home. 2 more games left, the reverse fixture against Portsmouth next Sunday then their final game of the season away to Chichester City Ladies on the 13th.

   Charlton Athletic Women also move up the FAWPL Southern Division above previous leaders Crystal Palace Ladies into 2nd spot a point behind C&K Basildon with 2 games in hand. Did their already superior goal difference a massive boost too with a big win on the road in their London derby with Queens Park Rangers on Sunday. Kit Graham moving ahead of Charlotte Gurr as the top scorer as she racked up 5 goals to her name on Sunday for Charlton opening the scoring in the 10th minute went on to score another 3 goals in the 1st half with Georgia Griffin and Hannah Churchill also on target to give the visitors a 6-0 halt-time lead. Olivia Lukasewich making it 7-0 5 minutes into the 2nd half Captain Kim Dixson also getting a goal before Graham added her 5th of the day. Griffin getting another goal taking the score into double figures Charlotte Lee making the final score 11-0 in the closing minutes.

   All thing’s come to an end and so it was this Sunday as West Ham United Ladies long unbeaten run since the beginning of the year was brought to a stop by Lewes FC Women. The 4th placed side in the FAWPL Southern Division were trailing at the break however 1-0 down thanks to a goal for West Ham’s Kelly Wealthall in the 14th minute. Katie McIntyre getting Lewes back on level terms on the hour. West Ham were reduced to 10 players going into the final 20 minutes with Andria Georgiou shown a 2nd yellow card. The winning goal coming 7 minutes from the end of the match Amy Taylor finding the back of the net to win the game 2-1 for Lewes.

Coventry United Ladies were on the road this Sunday a trip down South to play Chichester City Ladies. Close the gap to 5th placed Portsmouth FC Ladies to 2 points as they picked up another win Lois Jefferies with her 1st goal for the visitors putting Coventry United into the lead just past the half hour. A 1-0 advantage at the break Amber Hughes doubled Coventry United’s lead 2 minute into the 2nd half. A goal from Marie Gauntlett midway through the 2nd half securing the win for Coventry United 3-0 the final score. Next up for Coventry United the County Cup Final against Birmingham & West Midlands Ladies on Wednesday night at Tamworth FC.

FAWPL South East Division One

The battle for the title in FAWPL South East Division One is well and truly back on, at one point AFC Wimbledon Ladies were looking like they were going to run away with the title but 2 successive defeats in their run in has opened to door to the chasing pack. Weren’t in action this Sunday as they saw their lead cut to 4 points.

  2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies on the road on Sunday taking on Stevenage Ladies. Ipswich Town getting off to a great start 3-0 up inside the opening 15 minutes. Zoe Cossey putting Ipswich Town 1-0 up inside 4 minutes, Natasha Thomas doubling the lead just 3 minutes later. Miagh Downey making it 3-0 in the 14th minute. Nicole Emmings pulling it back to 3-1 for Stevenage, Ipswich regaining their 3 goal advantage in the closing minutes of the 1st half Thomas’ shot deflected into the goal. 4-1 up at the break Thomas completing her hat-trick on the hour. Kristi Burling getting it back to 5-2 before Thomas scored her 4th of the game with 81 minutes on the clock. Roxanne Small making it 7-2 to Ipswich Town in the last 5 minutes. Both Ipswich Town and leaders AFC Wimbledon have two league games left.

  The side that can catch both of them are Milton Keynes Dons Ladies who move up to 3rd place in the FAWPL South East Division One table with victory of previous 3rd placed side Leyton Orient WFC on Sunday. A special occasion the match being played at The Matchroom Stadium. Milton Keynes starting well getting into a 2-0 lead. Leyton Orient coming back to level it up at 2-2 Sophie Le Marchand and Lisa Holmbeck getting the goals. Milton Keynes retook the lead to hold the advantage 3-2 at half-time the visitors getting the better of the 2nd half with Heather McDonnell scoring two goals to make it 5-2 early in the 2nd half Anna Loftus extending the lead to secure a 6-2 victory for Milton Keynes. a 5 points behind Ipswich and 9 behind AFC Wimbledon have 4 games in hand on both a busy run in but with just one defeat in the league this season their fate is in their hands.

Another side in the FAWPL South East Division One due to play a game at their men’s stadium were Cambridge United WFC, unfortunately the pitch at The Abbey Stadium was deemed unplayable. A shame for the side it was back to their normal home venue Mildenhall Town FC to play Enfield Town Ladies in the A10 derby. Women’s Football East was there to watch. Cambridge starting the game well attacking Enfield getting the ball forwards at every opportunity. A double save from Kerrie Marlborough in the Enfield goal denying the opening goal. Enfield held Cambridge at bay the sides goalless at the break. It was more of the same 2nd half, Kelley Blanchflower with good movement up top fouled inside the box on the hour to see Cambridge awarded a penalty kick, Laura Baker sending it home to put Cambridge into the lead. The single goal enough in the end to secure all 3 points for Cambridge in their final home match of the season.

Laura Baker, scores from the penalty spot for Cambridge United WFC

A run of 4 successive league wins has propelled Actonians Ladies up to 5th spot in the FAWPL South East Division One table. Collected the 3 points on Sunday after a double figure win away to bottom side Haringey Borough Women. 10-0 the final score.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 29th April

A game from FAWPL South East Division One this afternoon on Women’s Football East back to Mildenhall Town FC for one last time this season to watch Cambridge United WFC take on Enfield Town Ladies.

 A change of venue unfortunately Cambridge United WFC as they were scheduled to play at The Abbey Stadium. The pitch deemed unplayable the game switched back to their usual home ground at Mildenhall, that pitch looking in fantastic condition considering the stage of the season at the amount of games played on it. A new metal fence fitted alongside the pitch too since my last visit. 

Today’s contest between the sides currently sitting 8th and 9th in the table. The A10 derby the sides have enjoyed many close contests over recent seasons. Cambridge United WFC have been in the top half of the table for much of the season, a transitional season with several new players haven’t captured the form from last season inconsistent haven’t picked up the points where they should recently dropping down the table as others below them find form at the end of the season, all very close in the middle of the table.

  Enfield Town Ladies themselves have had an up and down season losing games early on have since stabilised and  like Cambridge their results have varied in the bottom half of the table well clear of the danger zone. Playing their penultimate game of the season can’t finish any higher than 9th. Enfield are one of several sides I haven’t been able to get to watch a game this season so will be good to see them today

  The Mildenhall pitch a credit to the club especially with The Abbey Stadium pitch unfit. Described it several times before a slope from on goal mouth to the other. Plenty of width on offer. What’s happened to the weather? This time last week needed the suncream, not it’s back to being wet and miserable. Overcast a chilly a few spots of rain around. A monsoon heading our way tomorrow…wonderful…

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Laura Baker, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Carolyn Sarafian, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Lauren Gibson & Mollie Coupar.

Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Kerrie Marlborough, Sheryce Slater, Cally Browne, Laura Elias, Claire Ford, Holly Brandon, Rhiannon Bassett, Olivia Martin, Regan Coleman (C), Lisa Kline & Katherine Long. Subs – Beth Dempsey, Andrea Hunyadi, Kally-Anne Westgarth & Katrina Martin.

  It’s Enfield to kick-off the 1st half wearing white shirts with blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks with Cambridge attacking up the slope lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. The ball pinging around in the middle as both sides close the ball down quickly, Cambridge’s Laura Baker knocking it on through the middle for Kelley Blanchflower to run onto peeling away to the right, closed down she takes on the early shot looking to lob the ball in towards goal lacking height and power Enfield goalkeeper can gather safely.

   Cambridge regain possession in the centre Charlotte Crisp with the forwards pass Lauren Cartwright picking it up 20 yards out screws a rising shot wide of the target from 20 yards out. Katherine Long nicks in on Cambridge captain Laura Bright to take the ball in behind heads for the box, Bright quick to recover doesn’t let Long get a shot away stepping into the tackle to win the ball. 

Enfield Town Ladies, Katherine Long

  Cambridge push forwards the ball out to Blanchflower who has moved out to the left turns inside her ball into the area for Cartwright she lays it back to Faith Hewitt outside the area her ball for Amy Howlett to the right just a little too heavy inside the box, Howlett goes after it fires the ball back into the area, the shot is hit the ball heading towards goal Marlborough with the instinctive save stooping to parry the ball back out into bodies in front of her a 2nd shot comes in Marlborough making another reactive save to push the ball away to the left. 

Amy Howlett on the attack for Cambridge United WFC

 Lisa Kline bringing the ball on inside right lays it on for Coleman ahead of her Bright coming across wins the challenge. Cambridge come forwards on the left the ball played across field Emma Jenkins coming on through the middle helping it on for Howlett breaking clear on the right her cross into the box Blanchflower looking to get on the end of it Claire Ford defends for Enfield putting the ball behind for the corner kick. Long defending at the far post heads the ball clear for Enfield. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Emma Jenkins

  Enfield with a counter attack Coleman with the ball on the left her pass inside to Long, all of 30 yards out takes a pop at goal, doesn’t trouble Savannah Smith in the Cambridge goal. Smith creates her own trouble not long after a miscued kick from a pass back by Kayleigh-Anne Burt at the back on her left presents the ball straight to Kline, top of the area she looks to take a touch to round the keeper, Smith dives at her feet snatching the ball from the attacker. The match being played at the god tempo both sides exploiting the width on offer. 

Enfield Town Ladies captain, Regan Coleman

  Howlett with the run forwards the pass on for Blanchflower, Ford in to tackle the Cambridge attacker. Cambridge retain possession in the final third winning a corner on the right. A good delivery into the box Holly Brandon winning the ball for Enfield. Enfield look to build an attack Cambridge win it back turn play around quickly Bright on for Cartwright turning in behind, Laura Elias getting back on her to slide in and tackle. 

  Cambridge are playing well getting forwards win a corner on the left a good delivery in by Hewitt claimed high by Marlborough unchallenged at her near post. Elias with the tackle to take the ball away from Blanchflower on the right channel as Cartwright attempts to play her in on goal. Howlett looking to keep the ball in on the right is tackled by Cally Browne the ball out for a throw in. Cambridge press Enfield at the back the ball worked around the top of the area. Hewitt with a shot on the left 20 yards out falls wide of the near post.

  Enfield chances are rare a spell of possession brings them a corner on the right the ball attacked near post knocked down into the area as Cambridge defend then are awarded a free-kick. Burt defends well up against Kline as high ball is played up to her through the middle. Cartwright on the ball brings it on through the middle, Blanchflower moving right ahead of her helps the ball on for Howlett the cross in too close to the keeper Marlborough gathering at her near post. Hewitt breaking on the left receives a crossfield pass 20 yards from goal attempts to slide Blanchflower in on goal the attacker can’t quite reach it before Marlborough can claim it.

Cambridge United WFC defender, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Enfield are restricted to shots from distance, Long’s effort charged down by Burt 25 yards out. Sheryce Slater with good defensive work at right back to get her head on the ball stop Hewitt from running in clear behind her. A good contest between Blanchflower in attack for Cambridge and Ford in defence for Enfield, Ford stands off Blanchflower this time as she shifts the ball outside the area left side gets a shot it bouncing wide across goal out the far side. Kline gathers the ball on the right as Enfield attack Carrie Bennett tackles her, Kline retains the ball coming inside Burt closes her down to deny her a shot on goal.

Claire Ford, defending for Enfield up against Kelley Blanchflower

  Elias with a good tackle inside the box as Howlett crosses the ball in from the right looking for Cartwright. Late into the 1st half Cambridge continue to attack Hewitt inside to Blanchflower played on to Howlett right side coming inside Browne puts in the blocking tackle right on the edge of the area, Howlett wriggles free with the ball taking it past her her strike at goal is grabbed by Marlborough. A late free-kick for Enfield inside the Cambridge half a fair way out but that doesn’t stop Slater taking on the shot her effort over.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 Enfield Town Ladies

    Goalless at the break. Cambridge with an impressive 45 minutes have created most of the chances attacking well. Not using the ball as well as they could in the final third perhaps should have the lead but at 0-0 Enfield are very much still in the game have worked hard at the back defensively haven’t been able to retain the ball going forwards the game played at a high tempo. Will the chances be taken 2nd half.

  Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope no changes for either side. Kline with an early opportunity to get on the attack for Enfield on the right receiving the ball from Rhiannon Bassett up the line her cross in won by Bright for Cambridge. The home side counter attack Baker on for Blanchflower her pass inside to Cartwright outside the area, Elias with the tackle for Enfield. A corner kick to Cambridge on the right a good delivery in as players crowd the near post goes long across goal Cartwright there can’t provide the telling touch to divert it over the line. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Lauren Cartwright

  Careless at the back form Cambridge attempting the back pas on the left side again Burt getting the ball back to the keeper, out wide the return ball intercepted by Coleman, Burt quickly on her forced to lunge in concedes the free-kick a dangerous position wide of goal, Slater forwards to take it her ball in across the six yard box Bright stepping out puts her head on it to clear for Cambridge. Get the ball up the other end win a corner on the right taken quickly Browne intercepts the ball turning it behind for a 2nd corner. 

Enfield Town Ladies, Sheryce Slater

  Enfield attack the ball on by Martin into Long right for Kline, Bennett clearing the ball, Long retrieves and is fouled another free-kick for Enfield right side Slater comes forwards to take once again a good ball into the area Long up highest heads the ball towards goal straight at Smith the goalkeeper takes the ball down into her body. 

 GOAL! An hour played and the dead lock is broken Cambridge taking the lead the home side with a rapid attack have Enfield stretched at the back the ball on through the middle for Blanchflower, top of the area Slater gets across to get her head on the ball knocking it away to the right Blanchflower goes after it is clipped in the process and although she stays on her feet the referee blows up pointing to the spot a penalty to Cambridge. Baker to take it. Coolly sends it low to the keepers left into the bottom corner of the goal 1-0.

Laura Baker, scores from the penalty spot for Cambridge United WFC

   Crisp is fouled on the left as she brings the ball on a free-kick to Cambridge players up as Hewitt sends the ball into the area Marlborough able to claim at her near post. Cambridge regain possession winning a throw on the right high up the pitch then get a corner the ball played into the six yard box is knocked out to the edge of the area Burt lashes a shot back in the ball charged down the rebound coming to Crisp her strike blocked at pointblank range as Enfield defend. 

  Ford with more good defensive work up against Blanchflower as she almost gets through on goal through the middle. A change for Enfield, Elias comes off Andrea Hunyadi on. Crisp with the pass out to Hewitt plays it on for Blanchflower moving left ahead of her, the cross in cut out by Brandon. A shot out of nothing for Enfield from 20 yards out drops wide of the near post as Long and Kline converge on the ball. A warning for Cambridge that for all their attacking play they lead is a slender one. 

Holly Brandon on the ball for Enfield Town Ladies

  Blanchflower takes the ball on down the left turning inside evading the challenge getting into the box closing in on goal opens up her body to send a shot wide over the keeper, not wide enough as Marlborough is able to pluck the rising ball out of the air. Enfield are pressing more forwards now Hunyadi in midfield getting the ball into Kline on the right, Burt tackling. Kline strong on the ball again the pass inside from the right into Long she chests it down 25 yards out looking to turn and shoot Jenkins gets across to take the ball away from her. Coleman sending the loose ball wide of goal.

   A double switch for Enfield, Browne and Bassett coming off, Beth Dempsey and Kally-Ann McGrath coming on. 10 minutes left on the clock Mollie Cougar being readied for Cambridge to replace Blanchflower up top. Cougar with an immediate impact picking the ball up from a throw on the left takes the ball on into the box the challenge against her deflecting the ball straight into the path of Crisp 20 yards out left of the D the ball not troubling Marlborough. 

Enfield’s Andrea Hunyadi and Cambridge’s Lauren Cartwright challenge for the ball

  Enfield are gaining a little momentum late on sensing they can get something in the closing stages push forwards. Cambridge caught in two minds defend what they have or go for a 2nd goal. Brandon winning the ball at the back on for McGrath she is tackled by Bennett the full back for Cambridge then getting fouled. Enfield on the attack late on win a free-kick on the right wide the ball played into the area plenty forwards Long heading the ball on another touch before Ford sends her header in towards goal Smith catching the ball, the final action of the game as Cambridge win the game 1-0 to secure the 3 points.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Enfield Town Ladies

   A good performance from Cambridge deserving of the 3 points creating plenty of opportunities going forwards unlucky not to be leading at half-time finally broke the dead-lock after an hour awarded a penalty and Baker stepping up to score. A narrow lead however and Enfield were never out of the game and one clinical chance might have been all they needed to take something from the game. Cambridge defending from the front turning play around quickly. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award goes to Cambridge’s Kelley Blanchflower. Led the line well ready for the ball whenever Cambridge turned play around, running into the channels and bringing others into play. Keeping the Enfield defence busy for the whole time she was on the pitch and winning the all important penalty.

Well it wasn’t The Abbey but good to go back to Mildenhall none the less. My thanks to Enfield for their help with the team details this afternoon. Less than a month of the season left, could say I’m winding down but I’d be lying, the next game will soon be around.